The Flaming Heart resumo, enredo, sinopse

Sinopse de The Flaming Heart

The drama focuses on two special professions, firefighters and emergency doctors.

In one-by-one life-and-death tests, “flame blue” and “angel white” hand in hand and side by side, adhere to the same rescue beliefs in their respective “battlefield”.

The same beliefs let them gradually make acquaintance with each other and fall in love, interpreting the burning love of both lovers and comrades.

Resumos de The Flaming Heart

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A multi-car pileup occurred in the Yunlong East Road tunnel, prompting the Dongshan Fire Station to dispatch its team. Huo Yan, a firefighter, happened to be driving through the affected area. Noticing the severity of the situation and the thick smoke, he moved against the flow of evacuating civilians to assess the conditions and report to the fire department. Simultaneously, doctors from Southeast Hospital, including Yan Lan, prepared to treat the injured.

Inside the tunnel, Huo Yan discovered a pregnant woman trapped in her car. Nearing her due date this weekend and suffering from diabetes, she had fainted due to the stressful conditions. Huo Yan contacted Yan Lan by phone, who diagnosed diabetic ketoacidosis and instructed him to find an insulin pen in the woman's bag. Huo Yan located the pen, confidently stating he knew how to use it, and administered the injection.

Shortly after, a nearby vehicle began leaking fuel and caught fire, forcing Huo Yan to temporarily shift his focus to fire suppression. As the Dongshan Fire Station team arrived, led by Deputy Chief Luo Jie, they prepared to forcibly remove the car door to rescue the pregnant woman. Huo Yan intervened, explaining that such a method could cause a dangerous one-centimeter compression to the woman's already vulnerable state. He proposed an alternative: removing the car's trunk for a safer extraction.

After careful consideration, Luo Jie agreed to this approach. The firefighters successfully extracted the pregnant woman. To help calm her, Huo Yan played a soothing song and recounted how his mother had always wanted a girl, even dressing him in skirts as a child to fulfill her dream. Unbeknownst to him, Yan Lan overheard this conversation while still on the phone, causing her to recall fragments of her own childhood.

Moments later, the pregnant woman went into labor as her water broke. Yan Lan, having arrived at the scene, was able to successfully deliver the baby, feeling bolstered by the unknown firefighter's calm voice on the phone. Huo Yan, meanwhile, rejoined the wider tunnel rescue efforts, missing a direct encounter with Yan Lan.

After the incident, Yan Lan found herself drawn to the unknown firefighter's voice, describing it as "warmhearted," "familiar," and "made me feel at ease," like her "ideal boyfriend." Huo Yan officially reported to the Dongshan Fire Station as its new Deputy Chief, holding the same rank as Luo Jie.

Luo Jie expressed his dissatisfaction to Chief Chen, feeling that Huo Yan, whom he initially dismissed as "an unknown outsider," had unfairly taken a position that should have gone to a seasoned team member. Chief Chen, however, highlighted Huo Yan's exceptional record, including graduating from the Fire and Rescue Academy, receiving a Second Class Merit Citation once, two Third Class Merit Citations, and championing both the Rope Team and Ladder-Climbing team in the Inter-division Firefighting Competition.

The discussion then shifted to a complaint from the taxi driver whose car trunk was damaged during the rescue. Luo Jie was about to take responsibility, offering to compensate the driver, but Huo Yan stepped forward, claiming it was his decision to breach the car to save a life, and he was willing to take full responsibility. Luo Jie, still feeling his authority challenged, insisted on taking the blame as the operation's commander.

Minister Jiang intervened, acknowledging the complex nature of the rescue and praising both men for their quick, decisive actions, emphasizing the importance of mutual learning and progress rather than internal disputes. Chief Chen later thanked Minister Jiang for bringing Huo Yan to Dongshan. Separately, firefighter Wang Dayin had an embarrassing encounter in the shower when new female recruit Jiang Tong accidentally walked in.

Later, Chief Chen announced that Wang Dayin would be in charge of training the new recruits, including Jiang Tong, Tian Zhi Peng, and Cui Ying Shuo, much to Wang Dayin's chagrin. At Southeast Hospital, Yan Lan was caring for a young patient, affectionately called "Princess Xiao Yan Zi," who was Luo Jie's younger sister. The child was afraid of an upcoming surgery and refused to take her medication.

To encourage her, Yan Lan promised to win a rare limited-edition mystery box doll to accompany her into the operating room. Before formally assuming his new post, Huo Yan was granted half a day off to spend with his family. At home, his mother, Sister Xian, playfully admonished him for leaving the stove unattended, reminding him of fire safety.

Huo Yan later visited a memorial, where he spoke to his deceased father, who had also been a firefighter at Dongshan Station and died in the line of duty. Huo Yan expressed his sentiment, "Son is finally back to your old place," indicating his resolve to continue his father's legacy. Yan Lan headed to a mystery box game stall in the city, determined to win the promised limited edition doll for Luo Jie's sister.

She struggled to win anything, dropping her last hoop in frustration. At that moment, Huo Yan, who was also there to win the same limited edition box for his mother, bought more hoops and expertly won it. Yan Lan, desperate, tried to convince Huo Yan to give her the box, offering to buy it from him or even claiming the hoop he used was hers.

Huo Yan, refusing to yield, offered her the other regular mystery boxes he had won instead, but Yan Lan only wanted the limited edition, calling him "not a gentleman" for his lack of chivalry. She still had no idea he was the firefighter from the tunnel. Later, Luo Jie attempted to romantically pursue Yan Lan, bringing her a brown sugar bubble tea with excessive pearls and proclaiming his unwavering love.

Yan Lan, however, reiterated that she only saw him as a close friend. She then pressed him for information about the "calm" firefighter from the tunnel incident, expressing her gratitude and curiosity about his appearance. Luo Jie, either dismissive of Huo Yan or perhaps feeling competitive, downplayed him, describing him as "weird," sounding "like an old cadre," "hard to approach," and "way behind me."

Yan Lan remained unaware that the man she was inquiring about was the very same man she had just argued with at the mystery box stall. The episode concluded with a child's scared voice coming over a radio, playing hide-and-seek and calling for help, followed by a calm, reassuring voice saying, "Don't be afraid. I am here. I will protect you," echoing Huo Yan's words to the pregnant woman.

The Dongshan Station Fire and Rescue team received an emergency call about a fire in the Fujia community. Chief Chen immediately instructed Deputy Chief Luo Jie to deploy two deck guns to control the flames. Deputy Chief Huo Yan, observing from a higher vantage point, informed Chief Chen that the fire’s origin was likely near Unit 410, and Chief Chen then relayed the instruction to Luo Jie to check the area.

Huo Yan then led a team to the fifth floor for search and rescue. Luo Jie reported reaching the fourth floor and confirmed no open flames in the hallway, allowing search and rescue teams to proceed. During their efforts, firefighters discovered the fire’s origin at the bottom of the fourth floor. Amidst the chaos, as residents were being evacuated and injured individuals attended to, new dangers emerged.

Falling sparks ignited a nearby perfume workshop, causing the fire to intensify and spread. Doctor Yan Lan, who was evacuating a trapped little girl on the first floor, became engulfed in flames after an explosion occurred just as she handed the child to a firefighter. She was thrown back and lost consciousness.

Deputy Chief Luo, having just descended, learned of Yan Lan's predicament and instinctively tried to rush back into the blaze to save her, but Chief Chen restrained him, reminding him to obey commands. From his position on the fifth floor, Deputy Chief Huo contacted Chief Chen, explaining that the fire was spreading rapidly from the first floor and advised against entry from the ground floor.

He then identified the east window on the fourth floor as the optimal rescue point and instructed the aerial ladder truck to prepare. Yan Lan eventually regained consciousness. She heard a voice through her walkie-talkie, guiding her to move away from the escalating fire on the first floor and ascend the stairs. The calm, reassuring voice was familiar, reminding her of the man who had guided her during the tunnel incident, bringing a sense of security.

Following the instructions to cover her mouth and nose, stay low, and close windows, she made her way upstairs. She encountered a blocked window and a locked bedroom door. The voice on the walkie-talkie urged her to break it open, assuring her of success. After successfully breaking the door and thanking him, the voice, identified as Deputy Chief Huo, asked for her name.

Soon, Deputy Chief Luo, who had taken charge of the aerial ladder, located Yan Lan on the fourth floor and safely brought her down. During the descent, Yan Lan lost consciousness again but was assured that the little girl she saved was safe. She woke up later and thanked Deputy Chief Luo, who then cautioned her against rushing into dangerous situations.

Mistaking Wu, a firefighter who came to assist with a hose, for the man on the walkie-talkie, Yan Lan felt a connection. Her friend, Bai Xiaolin, enthusiastically approached Wu, praising Yan Lan as a kind and beautiful doctor from Southeast Hospital, and insisted that Wu add Yan Lan on WeChat. They exchanged contact information and tentatively agreed to a dinner date.

Meanwhile, Liu Xuan, an ambitious doctor at the hospital, observed Deputy Chief Luo, recognizing him as a frequent visitor and a fire station deputy chief. At the hospital, Professor Ye announced a new joint research project between their hospital and the Dongshan Fire Station to study Fire and Medical Joint Training practices. He chose Yan Lan to assist him, much to Liu Xuan's dismay.

Liu Xuan had previously tried to secure a spot by talking to Professor Li, but Professor Ye ultimately selected Yan Lan for her outstanding abilities. Separately, a representative from Han's Pharmaceuticals pressured Director Li to issue a fraudulent safety report for their monoclonal antibody samples, which had been destroyed in the tunnel accident. Director Li expressed reservations, but the representative casually dismissed his concerns, implying that a new sample would arrive soon.

Later, Liu Xuan approached Deputy Chief Luo as he was leaving the hospital, having visited his sister. She tried to add him on WeChat, offering to provide updates on Yan Lan to pique his interest. Deputy Chief Luo, who had no prior recollection of Liu Xuan, agreed to add her once she mentioned Yan Lan. Back at the fire station, Wu's colleagues excitedly offered him dating advice, some suggesting he be a gentleman and others urging him to act confidently.

Feeling overwhelmed by their unhelpful suggestions, Wu sought Deputy Chief Huo's advice. Deputy Chief Huo, admitting he wasn't an expert either, offered a high-tech solution: he would discreetly coach Wu through an earpiece during the date. On the night of the dinner, Yan Lan received a call from Bai Xiaolin, who unexpectedly canceled, leaving Yan Lan to dine alone with Wu. Yan Lan found Wu's formal demeanor, as he repeated Deputy Chief Huo’s coaching, quite odd.

Unbeknownst to them, Liu Xuan had overheard the dinner plans and brought Deputy Chief Luo to the same restaurant, hoping he would see Yan Lan with another man and give up his pursuit of her. Her scheme, however, did not work as Deputy Chief Luo remained undeterred. Liu Xuan and Deputy Chief Luo joined Yan Lan and Wu at their table.

Liu Xuan made pointed comments implying Yan Lan and Wu were on a date, but both Yan Lan and Wu tried to clarify it was merely a thank-you dinner. Deputy Chief Luo generously offered to pay for everyone and then helped Yan Lan cut her steak. When Liu Xuan tried to get him to cut her steak, he playfully refused, telling her to learn to be independent.

During the meal, Yan Lan sincerely thanked Wu for helping her twice—during the tunnel rescue and the recent fire, praising his calming voice on the walkie-talkie. Wu, still following Deputy Chief Huo's instructions, recited generic lines about a firefighter's duty. Deputy Chief Luo, having spotted Deputy Chief Huo observing them from an upper floor, chuckled at Wu's "hard work." Despite Deputy Chief Luo's attempts to subtly interrupt, Yan Lan pressed Wu for more details about the tunnel rescue.

Finally, Wu confessed that he was not the one who had guided her, but rather Deputy Chief Huo. Yan Lan looked up, stunned, as Deputy Chief Huo, visibly embarrassed, quickly settled the bill and left the restaurant.

The Fire and Medical Joint Training project officially commenced, with Yan Lan arriving at Dongshan Station as a lead researcher to set up the laboratory. Chief Chen had informed Huo Yan that he would be temporarily in charge of the project due to Luo Jie's unexpected absence. Huo Yan confirmed he had received the project files and was reviewing them.

When Yan Lan arrived, Huo Yan felt awkward meeting her directly, due to their previous encounters, including the recent dinner where the truth about the walkie-talkie conversation came out. He delegated Li Yanliang to greet her, instructing him to accommodate her requests as much as possible. Li Yanliang led Yan Lan to a storage room designated to become her laboratory, reassuring her that it would be tidied up soon per Chief Huo's instructions.

Yan Lan asked what else Huo Yan had said. While Li Yanliang was showing Yan Lan the storage room, he was called away to the gate. A woman named Guan, whom Li Yanliang had rescued from a fire, arrived with cakes to thank him. Guan also added Li Yanliang on WeChat, offering discounts for the fire station. Left alone, Yan Lan accidentally dropped her phone. As she reached through a metal grating to retrieve it, her head became stuck.

Unable to free herself, she called 119 for help. To the firefighters' bewilderment, the alarm blared for an emergency within their own station's storage room. Huo Yan rushed to the scene and found Yan Lan with her head stuck in the grating. He initially laughed at her predicament but then professionally freed her. As she stumbled backward, Huo Yan quickly caught her, bringing them close in an intimate moment.

He teased her about her poor balance and suggested she join their physical training. Yan Lan politely declined. Huo Yan then offered to help clean up the room later to prevent her from getting stuck again and "wasting emergency resources." Yan Lan retorted that she would rather die than call him for help again. Huo Yan then instructed his team members to organize dummies for the afternoon training.

Wang Dayin observed Jiang Tong and other university student firefighters practicing with a drone. To assert his authority as squad leader, Wang Dayin gathered the student firefighters and reprimanded them for focusing on "high-tech toys" instead of traditional training. He dismissed their drone as a "small invention" of little practical use compared to a firefighter's ability to enter a burning building.

Jiang Tong, unfazed, corrected his mispronunciation of a word he used to describe their "pampered" attitude and challenged his prejudice against new technologies. Feeling his authority questioned, Wang Dayin proposed a competition to see whose method was more effective: his practical training (climbing) or her "toy" (drone technology). They agreed that the loser would accept a punishment decided by the winner. In the ensuing "firefighting match," Jiang Tong's drone proved faster and won.

After losing, Wang Dayin refused to accept the punishment, accusing Jiang Tong of cheating by switching to a larger drone. Jiang Tong called him a coward and challenged him to another contest in the smokehouse. Huo Yan, who was giving Yan Lan a tour, heard about their escalating dispute and rushed to intervene.

He tried to mediate, but their argument quickly resumed, with Jiang Tong accusing Wang Dayin of prejudice against university-trained firefighters and Wang Dayin reiterating his belief in traditional methods. As their bickering intensified, Huo Yan received a mission call requiring him to take Yan Lan to an emergency. Frustrated by their inability to stop arguing, he left them to their quarrel.

Luo Jie called Yan Lan to check on her, offering to intervene if anyone at the station made her unhappy. Yan Lan brushed it off, assuring him she was fine. Meanwhile, Wang Dayin continued to antagonize Jiang Tong, leading to another argument. He tried to make her do push-ups, but instead, Jiang Tong challenged him to a "Nanjing gyroscope" test, which required 20 rotations in two minutes.

She declared that if she completed it, he would have to retract his "fooling around" comment and overcome his prejudice against high-tech firefighting. Despite Wang Dayin's warnings about the danger, Jiang Tong persisted. With another student's help, she began spinning but passed out before finishing. Genuinely alarmed, Wang Dayin quickly carried her to the infirmary, scolding the other students for their recklessness. Later, both Yan Lan and Luo Jie's families gathered for a dinner.

Their mothers, pleased with their childhood sweetheart connection, had already verbally arranged their marriage. Luo's mother expressed her wish for Luo Jie to leave his firefighting career and take over the family business. Luo Jie refused, suggesting his younger sister, Luo Xiao Yan, was better suited for the role, though she would need more training. Yan Lan defended the firefighting profession as heroic, but the mothers emphasized the need for one partner to manage the home after marriage.

Luo Jie tried to deflect by saying Yan Lan wasn't ready to date, but the mothers playfully declared that Yan Lan was their chosen daughter-in-law. Yan Lan maintained that she and Luo Jie were just very close friends. Yan Lan was having dinner with her friends when she encountered Huo Yan's mother in the washroom. Huo Yan's mother, still somewhat affected by her husband's passing and wearing youthful attire, was immediately taken with Yan Lan.

Praising her looks, she misunderstood Yan Lan's reaction, thinking she was admiring a doll charm on her bag, and proudly mentioned her son had given it to her. Feeling uncomfortable, Yan Lan excused herself. Back at her table, she was accosted by her ex-boyfriend, who announced his upcoming marriage and mocked her single status, hinting she could have been his bride if not for Luo Jie. As the situation grew awkward, Huo Yan, dining nearby with his mother, stepped in.

He told the ex-boyfriend that a "qualified ex should act like a dead man" and falsely introduced himself as Yan Lan's boyfriend, accepting the wedding invitation on their behalf. He then returned to his mother, who excitedly described the "cute girl" she had seen, unaware it was Yan Lan. Luo's father, chairman of a pharmaceutical company, met with Mr. Han of Han's Pharmaceuticals, who had previously pressured Director Li for a drug test report.

Mr. Han boasted about the demand for his new PD-1 monoclonal antibody, a "new type of biological gene-based medicine." He flattered Luo's father, proposing a "strong-strong alliance" where Luo's company's production experience would complement his firm's R&D strengths, leading to "win-win cooperation." Impressed, and after Mr. Han assured him that procuring certain lead compounds would be easy, Luo's father agreed to the collaboration. The joint field training between Dongshan Station and Southeast Hospital began.

Huo Yan and Luo Jie were appointed as team leaders, with Yan Lan assigned to Huo Yan's team. During the briefing, Huo Yan emphasized checking equipment and caring for the medical team. Luo Jie, leading the red team, sent "Car King" Wu to lead the way. Luo Jie approached Yan Lan to offer help with her bag, but she declined. Huo Yan intervened, telling Luo Jie his team didn't need interference.

Luo Jie retorted that Huo Yan shouldn't get "too complacent" and warned him against losing. Huo Yan confidently handed Yan Lan a walkie-talkie with GPS, telling her to contact him if needed. When choosing routes, Luo Jie’s team opted for the shorter path but soon found the valley it crossed was too wide for their ropes.

Following a suggestion, they used a drone to find a better crossing point, only to discover Huo Yan’s team had already found and crossed it. Huo Yan's teammate then playfully gloated over the radio as their team moved on, leaving Luo Jie frustrated. As the training progressed, Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin tumbled down a hill together, resulting in Jiang Tong spraining her ankle and Wang Dayin scraping his back.

Li Yanliang relayed to Chief Chen that their injuries were minor. Later, Yan Lan noticed a colleague, Ye, coughing frequently and suspected he had lung heat. She recalled seeing beekeepers and wild rock honey nearby, noting its healing properties.

During a training exercise in the mountains, Yan Lan, remembering that her father, Professor Ye, had his cough worsened due to lung heat, decided to seek out wild rock honey, known for its medicinal properties. She excused herself, telling her friend Bai Xiaolin to cover for her by saying she went to the toilet. Bai Xiaolin initially complied. Yan Lan then went to a nearby farmhouse.

There, she learned from a woman that her husband, a beekeeper, had not returned all night. Concerned by the impending storm forecasted for the mountains, Yan Lan offered to search for him, despite the woman offering to accompany her. Yan Lan assured the woman that she was with a rescue team and would return for the honey later.

Separated from the main team, Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin were sidelined from the training due to injuries—Jiang Tong with a sprained ankle and Wang Dayin with back abrasions. Jiang Tong was visibly upset about being out of commission, but Wang Dayin, ever the optimist, tried to cheer her up, insisting she eat. After a brief argument, Wang Dayin left her a box of food, which Jiang Tong eventually ate after he walked away.

Unbeknownst to Jiang Tong, Wang Dayin was watching her from behind a tent, finding her "pretending to be tough" both cute and amusing. Meanwhile, Huo Yan noticed Yan Lan's absence and asked Bai Xiaolin, who again claimed Yan Lan was in the toilet. Later, Luo Jie also inquired about Yan Lan from Bai Xiaolin, who repeated the cover story.

However, as time passed and Yan Lan did not return, Bai Xiaolin was forced to confess to Huo Yan that Yan Lan had gone to buy rock honey. Yan Lan, who was by then searching alone for about half an hour, finally found the beekeeper with a broken leg. She immediately contacted Chief Chen (her father, Professor Ye) to report her findings and the situation. Chief Chen immediately halted the training exercise, turning it into a full-scale rescue operation.

He dispatched Huo Yan's team, being the closest, to Yan Lan's location and instructed Luo Jie's team, which was further away, to return to base camp to prepare for the reception of the rescued person. Yan Lan quickly stabilized the beekeeper's leg and tried to keep him conscious. She managed to contact Huo Yan via walkie-talkie, informing him that she had located the injured person and urgently needed a stretcher and first aid supplies.

Huo Yan assured her his team was on the way. Shortly after, the beekeeper fell unconscious, and Yan Lan's walkie-talkie signal died. Just as she grew desperate, Huo Yan arrived with medical supplies. Yan Lan quickly explained that the patient was suffering from traumatic pneumothorax, likely due to a torn lung, and required immediate intubation and surgery to reduce the lung pressure, warning that any delay could lead to suffocation or sudden death.

Huo Yan initially hesitated, citing the approaching storm and the need to move the patient to a safer location, but Yan Lan insisted there was no time and that the patient would not survive a transfer. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Huo Yan decisively supported her decision for on-site surgery. Chief Chen and Luo Jie, hearing of the proposed field surgery via walkie-talkie, vehemently opposed it.

Luo Jie stressed the risks to the patient's life and their careers, urging Yan Lan to evacuate the patient and wait for professional medical assistance. Yan Lan, however, stood firm, declaring she would not abandon the patient as he was still alive and needed her, and moving him would result in death. Huo Yan then took responsibility, telling Chief Chen that this was his decision and he would bear all consequences.

Chief Chen, acknowledging the strong will and similarity between Yan Lan and Huo Yan to their younger parents, implicitly gave his consent. Yan Lan successfully performed the complex procedure with Huo Yan's assistance. After the patient's breathing stabilized, Yan Lan, exhausted from the intense effort, noted that further checks at the hospital were necessary to assess his abdominal cavity before entrusting the patient's transfer to Huo Yan's team. Yan Lan, utterly drained, then fainted from exhaustion.

Huo Yan gently carried her up the cliff to safety. Meanwhile, Luo Jie, worried about Yan Lan and the impending rain, used a drone to locate her. He watched through the drone feed as Huo Yan carried her and then as they took shelter in a small tent. Inside the tent, Yan Lan regained consciousness and asked Huo Yan to put her down.

They shared a lighthearted conversation, playfully teasing each other, which seemed to ease the tension from their initial rough encounters. When Yan Lan almost stumbled, Huo Yan instinctively reached out, and for a moment, they were very close. Just as a romantic moment seemed imminent, Luo Jie, watching from afar and overcome with jealousy, angrily flew the drone closer, interrupting them. Later, Liu Xuan found a visibly upset Luo Jie, who was still stewing over what he had witnessed.

She attempted to console him, suggesting it was normal for one's affections not to be reciprocated. Luo Jie confided that he had liked Yan Lan for ten years and felt as though he was being surpassed in both his love life and career. Liu Xuan encouraged him not to give up, reminding him that life offered many paths and that he still had opportunities. They shared a cola as they watched a rainbow after the rain.

That evening, the team gathered at the training grounds to celebrate Wu's birthday with a cake. After making a few wishes for his comrades' well-being, Wu announced that he had completed the paperwork to retire from the fire brigade, making this birthday his farewell. He spoke from the heart to each team member, expressing his appreciation and sharing personal anecdotes. He ended with a wish for everyone to return safely from every mission, creating a poignant atmosphere.

The team was deeply saddened, with members like Qian Li expressing their disbelief and sadness. Luo Jie, touched, reflected on how Wu used to call him "Luo" instead of "Chief Luo" and regretted being unable to prevent his departure. Chief Chen acknowledged the difficult nature of their profession, where goodbyes were inevitable, but urged them to remain brave and celebrate Wu's birthday joyfully. Yan Lan and other medical staff were also deeply moved by the camaraderie among the firefighters.

Following the field training, the firefighters went to Southeast Hospital for their routine medical checkups. Bai Xiaolin helped Yan Lan with her makeup, playfully remarking that it was her first appearance as a "sister-in-law" and she needed to look good for Huo Yan. Liu Xuan then approached them, directly stating her affection for Luo Jie and proposing a partnership.

She suggested that since Yan Lan was interested in Huo Yan, Yan Lan should help her pursue Luo Jie, envisioning a "win-win" situation for both couples. Liu Xuan tried to assure Yan Lan of her sincerity and that they could be friends through cooperation. Yan Lan, however, firmly rejected the idea, telling Liu Xuan that if her feelings for Luo Jie were genuine, she should pursue him herself.

Elsewhere in the hospital, Huo Yan, who had a fear of needles, attempted to avoid the blood draw by claiming he had diarrhea. He bumped into Yan Lan in the hallway, who, after a quick glance at his medical form, directly asked him why he hadn't gone for his blood test.

Huo Yan still needed to complete the blood draw for his physical examination, a task he was actively trying to avoid. Yan Lan, persistent, pursued him, asking what he was waiting for and reminding him that drawing blood was all that remained. Huo Yan feigned an upset stomach and claimed he needed to use the men's restroom, attempting to escape. Yan Lan, however, insisted on waiting for him, even offering to accompany him to the restroom.

Huo Yan quickly dismissed her, saying he knew where it was and that she should return to her work. After waiting for half an hour, Yan Lan became suspicious and asked a colleague to check on him. Her colleague humorously speculated about Huo Yan's long stay in the restroom. Eventually, Yan Lan intercepted Huo Yan trying to leave, with the blood lab about to close.

He tried to postpone, citing staff lunch breaks, but Yan Lan explained the nurse was her colleague and waiting for him. Confronted, Yan Lan teased Huo Yan, asking if he was faint of blood, which he vehemently denied, claiming he never was. However, when a nurse pushed a medical waste cart containing used needles and bloody cotton swabs past them, Huo Yan's legs buckled, revealing his fear of not only blood but also needles.

Meanwhile, Luo Jie took the opportunity during the medical examination to visit Yan Lan's office. Only Liu Xuan was there, and she tried to impress him by offering snacks and inviting him to watch a new movie. Luo Jie, however, was preoccupied with inviting Yan Lan to dinner after her examination. He sent her a voice message, suggesting an amazing restaurant. Yan Lan replied by text, stating she was busy and couldn't go.

Disappointed, Luo Jie then told Liu Xuan he couldn't go out with her that day. Liu Xuan reminded him of their agreement: if Yan Lan was busy, he had to go to the movies with her. She stated that while movies themselves weren't special, watching one with someone she liked made her happy. Luo Jie reluctantly agreed to go with her.

Later, during the movie, Liu Xuan pointed out the cute lead actress, but Luo Jie commented that the female colleague next to her looked better. Liu Xuan disagreed, finding the lead actress more lovely. Later that day, after Huo Yan drove Yan Lan home, her parents spotted them from their window. Yan Lan's mother was impressed by Huo Yan's good looks and teased Yan Lan, suggesting he would be a good match if things didn't work out with Luo Jie.

Yan Lan, embarrassed, quickly retreated to her room. Back at Dongshan Station during supper, Huo Yan and Luo Jie were seated with Yan Lan. When Yan Lan expressed a desire for milk, both men eagerly offered to get it for her. Li Yanliang intervened by bringing a large tray of milk bottles, ensuring everyone had plenty.

Huo Yan and Luo Jie then engaged in a comical milk-drinking competition, each trying to outdo the other while vying for Yan Lan's attention, even offering her their warm milk. Yan Lan watched them in exasperation, leaving her speechless. During this childish competition, Huo Yan accused Luo Jie of involving his family in his pursuit of Yan Lan.

Luo Jie vehemently denied this, asserting that his long-standing friendship with Yan Lan since childhood meant a bond Huo Yan couldn't possibly comprehend. Yan Lan later clarified to Huo Yan that her parents and Luo Jie's parents had been old friends for years, and their families often dined together, considering her and Luo Jie as simply "buddies." Following the medical examination, Yan Lan reviewed Huo Yan's report and noted some old injuries that would benefit from traditional Chinese medicine.

She decided to "help" him and invited him for a Chinese medical massage. After the massage, the clinic offered a complimentary acupuncture session. Remembering Huo Yan's fear of needles, Yan Lan saw this as an opportunity to prank him while also helping him confront his phobia.

Huo Yan initially tried to refuse, claiming they had dinner plans and no time, but Yan Lan challenged his bravery, reminding him he feared neither "mountains of knives nor seas of fire," so a mere acupuncture needle should be nothing. Under her provocation, Huo Yan reluctantly agreed. Lying face down, he nervously asked the practitioner if it would hurt, receiving a reassuring but vague "just a little" in response. Yan Lan found his visible distress quite amusing.

Meanwhile, a call came into 119 reporting a "boy" trapped in a tree. Wang Dayin and Jiang Tong responded, only to find an old Granny whose "son" was her six-year-old cat named Zai, tangled in the branches. Granny was frantic, worrying her cat would be "smashed to smithereens" if it fell. Wang Dayin, trying to avoid climbing, suggested using a drone to scare the cat down, arguing it was "practical experience" and safer than climbing.

Jiang Tong, however, insisted on a direct rescue, believing the cat was genuinely stuck and needed human intervention. She accused Wang Dayin of being a "coward." Wang Dayin confessed he was afraid of cats, adding, "A cat has nine lives, but I have only one. I can't let anything happen to me. You too."

Despite his objections, Jiang Tong grabbed a ladder from Li Yanliang and climbed the tree without gloves to rescue the cat, getting a few scratches on her face in the process. Granny was overjoyed and tried to invite them home for a meal, but the firefighters politely declined. Wang Dayin, despite his earlier reluctance, attempted to take credit for the successful rescue, much to Jiang Tong's annoyance.

Yan Lan then took Huo Yan to a pet shop, where she playfully introduced him to her "boyfriend," a small Shiba Inu named Star. She explained she named it Star because she loved stars, which could grant wishes and shone into people's hearts, and her grandfather used to say deceased loved ones became stars to watch over the living.

Huo Yan, perhaps a bit jealous, dramatically informed Star that as of that day, its "boyfriend" duties were officially "laid off," implying he was taking over. Liu Xuan and Luo Jie went go-karting as previously agreed. Liu Xuan, an experienced driver, boasted about her driving skills. Unbeknownst to Luo Jie, Liu Xuan had secretly instructed the staff to install a speed-limiting card in her go-kart to ensure he won. They agreed to race again another time.

Luo Jie returned home, only to immediately clash with his father, who demanded he resign from the fire department to join the family business. Luo Jie's father argued that the family wealth was built for him and his sister, Yan, and that he himself wished to retire. Luo Jie staunchly refused, asserting that his choice to be a firefighter wasn't solely for Yan Lan. His mother tried to mediate, urging them to talk calmly.

Later, Huo Yan and Yan Lan, now having acknowledged their mutual feelings, enjoyed a date at a shopping mall, delighting in playful interactions with birds and rabbits. Yan Lan jokingly commented on a plump rabbit, saying it looked like Huo Yan, who responded by calling her "lovely." After a joyful day, Huo Yan promised to take Yan Lan to the "best stargazing spot."

He led her back to the fire station and asked her to put on a blindfold, telling her to trust him for the most spectacular view. As they ascended on the aerial ladder, Yan Lan felt the ground shaking beneath her and grew nervous. Huo Yan reassured her, promising to be there for her. Once high up, he allowed her to remove the blindfold.

Yan Lan was initially startled by the immense height and accused him of being "vengeful," asking to be brought down. Huo Yan then revealed his true intention, asking if the earlier acupuncture session had truly been a complimentary service from the clinic. Yan Lan confessed that she had arranged it in advance. Huo Yan then probed deeper, asking why she had retreated across the Rainbow Bridge during a previous event. Yan Lan admitted her fear of heights.

Seeing her vulnerability, Huo Yan tenderly confessed his feelings, promising that she would no longer need to fear, for he would offer comfort if she was scared, a hug if she was tired, and his scarf if she was cold. He explained that her fear of heights stemmed from the gravity between her and the earth, expressing his wish that in the future, she would only feel "gravity" towards him.

Yan Lan playfully teased him about being jealous of the earth. Finally, Huo Yan invited her to make a wish, remarking that wishes made closer to the stars were more potent. Moved, Yan Lan closed her eyes and made her wish.

On a day off, Huo Yan brought Yan Lan to the fire station's training grounds, explaining it was essential for their Fire and Medical Joint Training. He stated she needed to familiarize herself with firefighters' daily routines and improve her physical stamina. To this end, he planned some rigorous physical training for her. Yan Lan, whose physical fitness was somewhat lacking, struggled intensely. During a break, she devised a plan for playful "revenge." She proposed they practice leg stretches.

Yan Lan, being flexible, performed the stretch with ease. However, Huo Yan, with his less pliable physique, found the exercise painful and difficult. Yan Lan left him amusingly struggling, joking that his legs would go numb. Meanwhile, Chief Chen had a meal with Professor Ye. Chief Chen praised Yan Lan's excellent performance at the fire station and expressed his desire for her to participate in live operational training, to which Professor Ye readily agreed.

Later, Huo Yan cooked hot and sour noodles for Yan Lan in the fire station canteen. As they ate, Yan Lan noticed Huo Yan eating unusually fast. He explained that it was a deeply ingrained habit among firefighters: when the alarm sounds, everyone must immediately drop their forks and respond to the call. Thus, they all eat very quickly.

He added that after a demanding fire incident, they are often too exhausted to hold chopsticks, making forks a more convenient choice. Yan Lan commented that she admired their endurance. Huo Yan reflected that while people often attribute their perseverance to noble ideals like faith and dreams, firefighters are ultimately ordinary people who get tired, complain, and sometimes cry, only turning to lofty ideals in moments of life and death.

He playfully singled out Ma Qianli for complaining, Wang Dayin for slacking, and Li Yanliang for crying. Yan Lan offered to do the dishes, but Huo Yan insisted on doing them himself since he cooked. Just then, Su Zi Dong, a driver from Fuzimiao Fire Station, arrived, introduced himself, and asked for directions to Dormitory 302. During a Fire and Medical Joint Training session, which included CPR practice, Wang Dayin appeared visibly distracted.

He then received distressing news that his adoptive sister, Pei, had suffered a health setback. Wang Dayin, deeply concerned, immediately left. Jiang Tong, who had previously misjudged Wang Dayin as someone who avoided danger, was annoyed by his sudden departure. Understanding Wang Dayin's urgency, Huo Yan took Jiang Tong to the hospital to shed light on the situation.

Huo Yan explained that Pei was Wang Dayin's only family; he had rescued her from a devastating fire where her parents perished, leaving her an orphan. As an orphan himself, Wang Dayin felt a profound connection to Pei and treated her like his own sister. At the hospital, they witnessed Wang Dayin cheerfully playing with Pei, distracting her from her ongoing third round of chemotherapy. Jiang Tong was deeply touched by the scene.

Pei, in her innocence, remarked that Huo Yan and Yan Lan looked like a couple, then asked if Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin were one too, a suggestion they both quickly denied. Later, Wang Dayin further confided in Jiang Tong, explaining that to him, Pei was like "another me," a second chance at life, and he wanted to give her the best, which meant his time and presence, something he wished he had as a child.

Jiang Tong offered to help care for Pei, but Wang Dayin politely declined, stating that Pei depended solely on him. An alarm then came in from Dongshan Station reporting a fire on the roof of an iron-made house, with trapped individuals and chemical substances inside, making the situation extremely dangerous. At the scene, firefighters were cautioned about the volatile chemicals. Wang Dayin attempted to establish contact with anyone inside by shouting and knocking on the walls.

Eventually, a woman's cry for help was heard. Huo Yan and Luo Jie quickly discussed rescue strategies. Luo Jie initially proposed breaking down the front door. However, Huo Yan, considering the current wind direction, argued that a frontal breach would intensify the fire by introducing a large volume of air, risking severe harm to those inside. He suggested a lateral entry instead, coupled with an additional water hose to suppress the flames and buy more time for rescue.

Luo Jie, though initially expressing a touch of resentment at being out-thought, agreed to Huo Yan's plan. Huo Yan bravely entered the burning structure alone. After successfully rescuing the trapped woman, she desperately informed him that her daughter was still inside. Huo Yan immediately re-entered for the child. As he led the little girl to safety, a metal shelf collapsed, pinning him beneath it. Luo Jie frantically called out Huo Yan's name but received no response.

Without hesitation, Luo Jie charged into the house, instructing Wang Dayin to provide cover. He managed to pull an unconscious Huo Yan out of the blaze. Despite Luo Jie's repeated attempts, Huo Yan remained unresponsive. At that moment, the chemicals inside the house caused a minor explosion, prompting the team to increase the water pressure to extinguish the intensified flames. Huo Yan eventually regained consciousness in the hospital, his mind reeling with fragmented memories, including those of his father.

A phantom voice echoed in his mind, questioning his ability to protect Yan Lan and suggesting he should let her go if he couldn't. This encounter solidified his fears. Later, in a conversation with Yan Lan, he mused about the carefree happiness of childhood, where adults bear all burdens, and urged her not to let go of anyone who offers such comfort and protection. Yan Lan, however, tenderly responded that she had already found that person—Huo Yan himself.

Huo Yan then expressed his deep concern, stating that his profession as a firefighter carried a constant risk of sacrifice. He believed that loving him would be an immense burden for Yan Lan, forcing her to "prepare for the worst every day." He drew a parallel to how his father's dangerous career had burdened "Sister Xian" (a reference to his late stepmother who endured immense stress while caring for him), leaving her overwhelmed with life's pressures.

Yan Lan vehemently countered that she was no longer a child and he was not her "everything." She asserted her capability to handle her own challenges and even offered to support him through any adversity. She accused him of being selfish, making unilateral decisions without considering her feelings. Huo Yan admitted his selfishness, explaining that firefighters face an uncertain future, and he wished to avoid burdening any "innocent person"—an outsider.

Yan Lan, hurt by his words, felt dismissed as an outsider and delusional. She reiterated that a relationship is a shared journey and she was willing to face anything with him. Despite her heartfelt plea, Huo Yan remained resolute, stating he had made up his mind and wished to endure the challenges alone, not wanting to involve anyone else. The conversation ended in a tense cold war. Later, Yan Lan, still fuming, confided in Bai Xiaolin at the hospital.

She vented her frustration over Huo Yan's unilateral decision-making, branding him self-righteous and disrespectful of her feelings. Bai Xiaolin, while acknowledging Huo Yan's potentially flawed approach, gently suggested that his actions, however misguided, stemmed from genuine concern for Yan Lan, especially given the perilous nature of his profession. Yan Lan remained unconvinced, perceiving Bai Xiaolin's remarks as siding with Huo Yan, but maintained that she had offered him a choice, and he had chosen to reject their shared future.

Bai Xiaolin reiterated that Huo Yan's actions, from her perspective, unequivocally demonstrated how much he truly cared for Yan Lan, emphasizing that love is a journey of mutual exploration and growth, not something to be prematurely ended.

Huo Yan visited his Granny, who was looking at old photos. She shared a personal story from her youth during a time of war. She told him about a man she loved who went to war, for whom she walked over thirty miles to a photo studio to take a picture to send him.

She waited for him after he went to the Korean War, crossing the Yalu River, and even registered to become a medic when she heard he was injured, hoping to find and bring him back. However, she then received the devastating news that he had died in the war and a serious illness prevented her from going to the battlefield. It was much later that she met Huo Yan's grandfather.

Reflecting on her experience, Granny advised Huo Yan that if he finds a good girl he truly loves, he should cherish her and not let her go, because finding someone who loves you is not easy. She expressed her hope for him to fall in love. Luo Jie accompanied Yan Lan to a scenic spot.

Seeing her still downcast, he offered to tell her a joke, which turned out to be a love letter he read from his phone, titled "The Cat's Love Letter to the Mole." The story described a cat's deep, self-sacrificing love for a mole, giving up everything and enduring rejection. After finishing the story, Yan Lan thanked Luo Jie. He tried to find another joke, but Yan Lan gently stopped him, stating that he would always be her best friend.

Luo Jie acknowledged her words but affirmed that no matter what, he would always be there to protect her. Meanwhile, Pei's condition worsened, and she tragically passed away. Later, Yan Lan handed Wang Dayin a video Pei had recorded before her surgery. In the video, Pei, full of affection, called him "Brother Da Yin" and expressed how much she missed him, praising him as a firefighter even more powerful than Sun Wu Kong.

She left him with cheerful memories and a plea not to cry if she didn't return, so monsters wouldn't laugh at him. Watching the video, Wang Dayin was overcome with grief, crying uncontrollably. Back at the fire station, Wang Dayin bottled up his sorrow, refusing to speak. Jiang Tong approached him, encouraging him to release his emotions, telling him it was okay to cry or talk to her.

She reminded him that "life is so small," but that both the living and the deceased can be great, and his choices are his own. She then urged him to eat and return to duty. Huo Yan was in a discussion with Minister Jiang regarding his performance, which, while generally good, still had room for improvement, particularly in subway rescues. During their conversation, a distress call came into 119.

An elderly man, disoriented and injured, reported bleeding and a headache but couldn't provide his address, even mentioning "napalm bomb." Huo Yan took over the call, calmly assuring the man. He asked the elder to describe what he could see outside his window: "trees, lights, a road," a "rectangular window" with an "anti-theft net" on a "low floor" facing the street, and importantly, his interior "light is on." Huo Yan, keeping the man on the line, formulated a plan.

He dispatched multiple fire trucks, instructing them to drive slowly along different streets in the area and sound their sirens. By listening carefully over the phone, Huo Yan pinpointed the exact moment the man heard a siren, thereby identifying the correct street and narrowing down the search. Upon arrival at the residential complex, Huo Yan realized many lights were on, making it impossible to locate the man solely based on his description.

He took a megaphone and addressed the residents, explaining they were searching for a dying elderly man in a lit room in their community and requested everyone to turn off their lights to help them find him quickly. The residents responded immediately, plunging the complex into darkness, except for one solitary light. Huo Yan and his team quickly moved to that window, breached the apartment, and found the old man. Although he had sustained head trauma, he was conscious.

The team carefully rescued him and transported him to the nearest Southeast Hospital. Shortly after, news broke that Pingxi County in Southwest China had been hit by a powerful 6. 4-magnitude earthquake, causing unknown casualties. Both Huo Yan's fire rescue unit and Yan Lan's medical unit were urgently dispatched to the disaster zone for relief efforts. The night before his departure, Huo Yan's mother, Sister Xian, spoke with him.

She gently pressed him about his distant behavior towards Yan Lan, revealing that she knew it was related to his father. Huo Yan confessed that he viewed his father as a good father but not a good husband, and that he didn't want to become like him. He expressed his belief that if his father hadn't sacrificed his life, his mother wouldn't have endured so many hardships and grievances over the years, raising him and his grandmother.

He felt that while his father achieved his ideal, it came at a great cost to his mother's happiness. Sister Xian calmly countered that she had been mentally prepared since the day she married his father. It was a mutual decision for his father to continue as a firefighter, and they supported each other as partners. She emphasized that they were comrades-in-arms facing the uncertainties of life and death, and she never regretted being a firefighter's wife.

She advised Huo Yan to trust Yan Lan and not make decisions for her unilaterally, especially regarding their relationship. She acknowledged his fear for his loved ones but reminded him that in love, just like in the fire service, one chooses a comrade-in-arms. She asserted that firefighters, being flesh and blood, also need love and affection, and that it is this very love that gives them the courage to risk their lives for others.

If he abandons Yan Lan, his profession loses its inherent loveliness. She concluded by urging him to protect Yan Lan during the upcoming rescue mission as fiercely as he would protect himself. In Pingxi, Yan Lan's medical team was overwhelmed by the growing number of severely injured casualties. To complicate matters, a landslide blocked the main transport route, meaning no patients could be moved for at least six hours.

Facing critically injured patients who needed immediate surgical intervention, Professor Ye made the unprecedented decision to perform open-chest surgery directly in the makeshift medical tent within the disaster area, accepting full responsibility for the unconventional approach. To streamline treatment, Yan Lan introduced a system where patients received colored wristbands indicating their condition; a black wristband meant the patient could not be saved. Yan Lan's junior, Ji Yuan, was tasked with distributing these bands.

While triaging, he encountered a young woman with severe injuries who was beyond help. After placing a black wristband on her, he witnessed her husband's agonizing cries, which deeply affected him emotionally. Distraught, Ji Yuan questioned his ability to continue.

Yan Lan, observing his state, took the remaining wristbands from him and ordered him to clean himself up, change his clothes, and rest for thirty minutes alone, insisting on the full break, knowing he was struggling to cope with the harsh reality of the situation. Yan Lan also took over some of the heavier duties, stating that at such a critical moment, firefighters were needed.

Huo Yan's firefighting team overcame significant obstacles to reach the earthquake disaster front, where search and rescue, demolition, and support teams quickly positioned themselves. After a commander instructed the teams to prioritize safety and granted team leaders provisional decision-making authority, a local approached, pleading for help to rescue a young man trapped in the local guest house. Huo Yan and Luo Jie were dispatched to the scene.

They located the trapped young man, Zhou Ying, whose legs were pinned under a collapsed load-bearing wall. A distressed civilian urged them to save Zhou Ying. Luo Jie informed Huo Yan that the entire weight of the second floor's load-bearing wall rested on Zhou Ying, making secondary collapse a constant threat.

Luo Jie argued that amputation by medical personnel was the safest and most practical solution, given the inability to bring heavy machinery to the site and the risk to all rescuers. Huo Yan, however, believed they could save Zhou Ying's leg by lifting the wall two centimeters, explaining that a fine-sliced section of the broken wall at a corner, supported by a beam and a bed underneath, could temporarily bear the weight if a secondary collapse occurred.

He acknowledged the risks but insisted on a full rescue, highlighting that saving the leg was for the doctors, while rescue was their mission. Despite reports of impending aftershocks (with an average interval of 23 minutes), Huo Yan convinced Luo Jie, who reluctantly agreed to his more ambitious plan. During the intense rescue operation, Zhou Ying, a recent university graduate, shared that he had broken up with his girlfriend to return to his hometown, fearing she would suffer with him.

He expressed regret, wishing he hadn't given up on her so easily. As aftershocks began, Zhou Ying, feeling like a burden, urged the firefighters to abandon him and save others. Huo Yan firmly refused, telling Zhou Ying to hold on and reminding him that the local community, for whom he was to be secretary, was counting on him. With incredible effort, Huo Yan and Luo Jie successfully freed Zhou Ying.

Meanwhile, Ji Yuan, on a mandated break to recover from the emotional toll of placing a "black bracelet" (signifying unrecoverable) on a previous patient, heard a boy's cries. He found a boy named Ma Si Le (Le Le) trapped in a classroom, who asked for a bottle of coke. Shortly after, Ma Si Le called out to Guan Tong Tong, realizing other children were also trapped nearby, and informed Ji Yuan that three children were caught near the classroom door.

Yan Lan arrived and cautioned Ji Yuan against hastily moving debris, fearing a secondary collapse and further injury to the trapped children. She returned to the command center to request professional rescue personnel. A distressed father, Ma Si Le's father, became agitated as aftershocks hit, attempting to rescue his son himself, but medical staff intervened. Huo Yan and his team then arrived at the school.

Huo Yan skillfully used a piece of debris as a makeshift slide to coax a terrified Ma Si Le out of the rubble. After rescuing all the trapped children, a large brick suddenly dislodged and fell toward Yan Lan. Huo Yan quickly pushed her to safety, shielding her with his own body and taking the full impact. Back at the medical station, Zhou Ying collapsed due to severe crush syndrome, suffering from electrolyte imbalance and rhabdomyolysis, leading to unconsciousness.

He urgently needed an ECMO machine, but the vital equipment was stuck on a mountain road blocked by landslides. Huo Yan, learning of the critical ten-minute golden window for treatment, immediately volunteered to retrieve the ECMO. Concurrently, the blood bank ran critically low on O-type blood. Knowing Huo Yan had a needle phobia, Luo Jie stepped forward to donate a significant amount of his blood.

Despite feeling lightheaded, Luo Jie attempted to rush back to the front lines, but Liu Xuan insisted he rest and eat some chocolate to stabilize his blood sugar. Huo Yan, along with other firefighters, drove to the landslide site. Upon finding the path completely blocked, they decided to manually carry the heavy ECMO machine over the debris. Ma Si Le's father, along with other villagers who had been rescued, appeared to help clear the path, significantly accelerating the transport.

Huo Yan and his team delivered the ECMO just in time for Zhou Ying's surgery. As the day's major search and rescue operations concluded, Huo Yan's team was granted a much-needed night's rest. Huo Yan brought warm food to Yan Lan, hoping to apologize for their previous argument, but she pretended not to remember any quarrel, leaving him disheartened. Meanwhile, Jiang Tong brought food to Wang Dayin, urging him not to live in the pain of losing his sister.

Wang Dayin, still deeply affected but outwardly stoic, refused to eat and remained silent. The next morning, Huo Yan was assigned to transport more supplies. Professor Ye arranged for Yan Lan to accompany him, ostensibly to conduct health checks for villagers along the way. Their vehicle soon broke down, forcing them to stop.

Yan Lan used this chance to check on Huo Yan's injury from the falling brick and thanked him for shielding her, reflecting that "it might be better to face it together than going alone." Simultaneously, Wang Dayin was seen alone, arranging stones into a crying face. Jiang Tong approached, changing it to a smiling face. They repeatedly altered the arrangement. Frustrated, Jiang Tong confronted him, asking why he wouldn't share his sadness with anyone, but Wang Dayin coldly reiterated that he was fine before walking away.

Huo Yan and Yan Lan were driving when their car broke down, prompting Huo Yan to get out and repair it. As Yan Lan watched him, she felt very moved. Huo Yan stated that his duty was to protect the people, and Yan Lan was a part of that. Yan Lan expressed that she felt she hadn't been able to help him much, to which Huo Yan responded that facing challenges together was better than facing them alone.

He suggested she rest in the car, and she agreed. Meanwhile, Ji Yuan and Li Yanliang were resting when they accidentally slipped, resulting in a steel bar piercing Li Yanliang's leg. Ji Yuan immediately worked to stop the bleeding and intended to call for help, but Li Yanliang vehemently insisted that Ji Yuan pull out the bar, not wanting others to witness his injury. Ji Yuan warned of severe bleeding and infection, explaining that medical protocols advised against immediate removal.

Despite Ji Yuan's hesitation, Li Yanliang encouraged him to trust his abilities. Ji Yuan then carefully removed the bar. During the subsequent wound cleaning, which Ji Yuan warned would be more painful, Li Yanliang attempted to appear unaffected but soon fainted. Ji Yuan carried him back to the main camp. After receiving initial treatment, Li Yanliang was out of danger, and Ji Yuan went to administer his tetanus shot.

When Ji Yuan instructed him to turn over and expose his buttock for the injection, Li Yanliang became visibly embarrassed, especially with children nearby. He tried to maintain some modesty, asking if it had to be his buttock, prompting Ji Yuan to confirm the injection site was indeed his buttock. Later, Li Yanliang apologized for his impatient attitude, acknowledging that Ji Yuan's courage and endurance had been crucial.

They agreed to be "brothers of life," and Li Yanliang asked Ji Yuan to keep the incident private. By the time Huo Yan finished repairing the car, it was dark. After a phone call with the transportation team, he decided they would wait for the supply truck at their current location.

As they rested, Yan Lan confided in Huo Yan, describing her recent nightmares and feelings of inadequacy as a doctor, especially when faced with lives lost in the earthquake zone. She admitted she wasn't as strong as she thought and was confused about her career path between medical research and fire-medical joint rescue.

Huo Yan comforted her, reminding her that doctors were not supermen and she had done her utmost, suggesting to do her best and leave the rest to fate. He shared an analogy of ant colonies clumping together to escape fire, with outer ants sacrificing themselves for the group. He then promised that he and his comrades would always support and protect her, no matter her future choice. Yan Lan thanked him, and he responded, "Rogers that."

Liu Xuan got up in the middle of the night to accompany Luo Jie, who was on vigil. She brought him a warm roasted sweet potato, which she had been carrying, worried he would be hungry. Luo Jie smiled helplessly, split the sweet potato in two, and they ate it together. Liu Xuan told him that when things are sweet, it's good to forget the bitterness.

Later, a local girl in traditional dress brought food and a small embroidered sachet for Huo Yan, expressing gratitude for their help. Huo Yan initially declined, but Yan Lan encouraged him to accept, given the girl's effort. Yan Lan playfully teased Huo Yan about receiving a "love token," noting his popularity. Huo Yan, flustered, tried to return the sachet, but Yan Lan told him to keep it if he liked it. Then, she jokingly insisted he return it.

The next morning, Huo Yan apologized for his past high-handedness and unilateral decisions, promising to return the sachet to fully reconcile with Yan Lan. During their drive that morning, Yan Lan inquired why Huo Yan chose to be a firefighter. He explained it was to protect someone, and that the work, though often involving seemingly small tasks like rescuing cats, removing beehives, or helping children who got stuck, was incredibly meaningful because people relied on them.

Yan Lan, by contrast, stated she became a doctor simply because she excelled in science. Huo Yan teased her for not having a grand ideal but affirmed the deep satisfaction of receiving gratitude after missions, even joking that a "love token" made it even better. Yan Lan then suggested they get some sleep. At the medical station, Mr. Zhu, a local factory manager, persistently feigned illness to try and stay in the medical tents.

Children at the camp explained that he had tried this yesterday, and the plot summary indicates he had been doing this for days, repeatedly being turned away by nurses like Bai Xiaolin. When he attempted it again, claiming dizziness and offering payment, Bai Xiaolin firmly refused, reminding him the tents were for genuinely wounded patients. Li Yanliang offered to intervene if Mr. Zhu caused more trouble, but Bai Xiaolin confidently asserted she could handle him.

Another team member speculated that Mr. Zhu might not be a troublemaker but was seeking protection from the medical and firefighting teams. Huo Yan received a phone call from Minister Jiang, who inquired about Jiang Tong, causing Yan Lan to feel a pang of jealousy. Huo Yan quickly clarified that Jiang Tong was like a sister to him, as their families were old acquaintances.

Yan Lan pointed out some similarities between Huo Yan and Jiang Tong, noting that both appeared unapproachable, were prone to criticism, and sometimes imposed their views on others. Yan Lan then asked about Wang Dayin and Jiang Tong. Huo Yan recounted an incident where Jiang Tong, in her early days, corrected Wang Dayin's vocabulary during training, which resulted in her being punished.

He described Jiang Tong as strong-willed, recalling how she had cried to go to the front line but was persuaded by Minister Jiang to wait until she graduated. Huo Yan characterized Wang Dayin as a simple man whose life revolved around "eating and firefighting." When Yan Lan found Wang Dayin "quite cute," Huo Yan became openly jealous, demanding that she declare who was the cutest.

He jokingly threatened to make her ride in Wang Dayin's car if she couldn't choose, prompting Yan Lan to affectionately call Huo Yan the "cutest," referring to him as her "big cutie" and herself as his "little cutie." Upon their return to the disaster area with the supplies, Liu Xuan observed Huo Yan and Yan Lan closely and correctly inferred that they had resolved their issues and become an official couple. Huo Yan, however, clarified that they were "almost" there.

Liu Xuan then urged him to finalize their relationship quickly, hoping that Luo Jie would then give up on Yan Lan, opening a path for Liu Xuan to pursue him. Huo Yan was surprised to realize Liu Xuan's feelings for Luo Jie. He also mentioned that Luo Jie had sustained a minor injury while assisting a civilian rescue team. Concerned, Liu Xuan asked if Luo Jie had eaten and decided to deliver a meal to him.

Liu Xuan brought a packed meal to Luo Jie. He was impressed by the thoughtfulness of the logistics department, noting the heatwrap under the meal box. Liu Xuan corrected him, revealing that she had personally placed the heatwrap there for him.

Luo Jie questioned Liu Xuan's persistent efforts—bringing him warm sweet potatoes and lunchboxes with heatwraps—asking if she truly liked him and didn't mind doing so much. Liu Xuan retorted by asking if he found it troublesome to do things for Yan Lan. When Luo Jie denied this and vowed to marry only "Little Mole," Liu Xuan acknowledged his deep affection for Yan Lan, stating that she would offer her blessings if they were ever to marry.

However, Liu Xuan then remarked that Yan Lan was on the verge of reconciling with Huo Yan, a statement that visibly displeased Luo Jie. He vehemently dismissed it, claiming Yan Lan was merely putting on a cold front while secretly having strong feelings for Huo Yan, adding that "She has more bark than bite towards Huo Yan and is secretly enjoying it." Liu Xuan countered that he knew nothing, asserting, "Wait and see for yourself. You'll know I'm right."

She then expressed her understanding of his hurt, assuring him she would be there for him. She added, "Once you've moved on from her, you'll find the beauty of mine and will like me as well. A girl like me, who is beautiful and cute, is a rare find." Meanwhile, Ma Qianli, who had developed a crush on Bai Xiaolin after meeting her during a medical check-up, tried to get closer to her while she was preparing lunch.

In his eagerness to help, he accidentally knocked over a bucket of fish, ruining her soup. He declared that he would "be responsible" for her, offering to be her boyfriend. Bai Xiaolin, irritated by the mishap and his immaturity, dismissed his advances, stating she would never date someone younger than her, especially not a "child" like him who was "afraid of fish." She highlighted their age difference, with him being 21 and her 29, calling his proposal "inanity."

She sternly told him, "Before heating the pan, I will see the corpses of three of them. Am I clear? Repeat after me. Their corpses!" During lunch, a local father arrived with his young son, explaining that after waking from a fever and unconsciousness following the earthquake, his son recalled playing hide-and-seek with other children in the factory where he worked. The son believed these children were still trapped.

Because they were from the buried Fengdeng Village, no family members had come forward to report them missing. Concerned for their safety, Chief Chen immediately dispatched Huo Yan and Luo Jie to lead a team of firefighters and medics, including Yan Lan and three nurses, to the factory for search and rescue. Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin were instructed to remain at the main camp for other emergencies.

As the team prepared to depart, Han Pei from Han's Pharmaceuticals arrived, ostensibly to deliver medical supplies. He greeted Chief Chen, mentioning he ran companies in Nanjing and had met him before. However, upon seeing Luo Jie, Han Pei's assistant noted his presence was "unlucky," a sentiment Han Pei seemed to share, labeling Luo Jie a "primary school classmate."

Once the rescue team left, Han Pei, who had only been using the donation as a pretense, made his way to a medical tent. There, he found Mr. Zhu, the factory manager, who had been feigning illness to hide in the tent. Han Pei immediately demanded a specific item. Mr. Zhu claimed the factory's destruction made it impossible to retrieve it.

Unconvinced and angered, Han Pei had one of Mr. Zhu's teeth forcibly removed, warning him, "I'm giving you one last chance. Can you do it or not!" Mr. Zhu hastily agreed, prompting Han Pei to reiterate, "Okay then. Here is your one last chance. One last time." Huo Yan, Yan Lan, and their team arrived at the factory and heard cries for "Help!"

They quickly located a trapped child, who confirmed he was alone and unable to move but could see their light. However, the ground was unstable, and the main flue pipe where they heard the child's voice was prone to collapse, lacking safe anchor points for rappelling. They realized they couldn't enter through the initial access point and needed to find an alternative.

They discovered the factory was a semi-basement structure, and its internal layout was complex, making it difficult to find an entry. Huo Yan assigned Bai Xiaolin to stay at the initial entry point to monitor and report any changes. Ma Qianli attempted to enter a small opening but found he couldn't move once inside.

Seeing no other viable option, Yan Lan volunteered to enter the small passage, arguing that she was the only one who could fit and the child's condition was critical. Luo Jie vehemently opposed her taking such a risk, saying, "No, we can't risk a medic's life. Anyone else can do it. Anyone but you. We have all firefighters here. You'll be the last option." But Huo Yan, acknowledging her reasoning, supported her decision.

He placed his helmet on her head, saying, "I believe in you. Get in, find the boy, and grab him. I'll pull you out after. Trust me." Yan Lan affirmed, "I trust you. I'll definitely get him out safely," before carefully crawling into the confined space. Inside the factory, Mr. Zhu, desperate after Han Pei's threat, had sneaked back with explosives to retrieve the item Han Pei wanted.

Just as he lit the fuse of a bomb, he unexpectedly encountered Huo Yan, who had ventured ahead to scout for a new entry point. The explosives detonated, knocking Huo Yan and his team backward and severely injuring Mr. Zhu. Panicked, Yan Lan insisted on accompanying Luo Jie and Ma Qianli down to check on Huo Yan, despite the danger.

She quickly confirmed Huo Yan was safe and then turned her attention to Mr. Zhu, who had sustained multiple lacerations and a suspected skull fracture. As Yan Lan examined him, Mr. Zhu subtly slipped a pen into her pocket. Huo Yan then instructed Ma Qianli to take Mr. Zhu out and told Zhang Mo to go rest.

Meanwhile, Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin, stationed at the main camp, received a distress call from a civilian rescue team about a child trapped in Cliff Village. They immediately set off. Upon arrival, Jiang Tong observed the unusual dwellings, remarking, "What straggling timeline did those houses come from?" An elderly woman tearfully pleaded for help for her grandson, who had been stranded on the cliff for days.

A local explained that the village, located on the canyon by the Wangzi river, was accessible via a 47-step vine ladder, which had been partially destroyed by the earthquake, leaving the child isolated. The village, built over a century ago as a refuge from colonial invasion, still had a few remaining residents despite recent poverty alleviation efforts moving many to town.

Learning that previous ladder repairs involved free climbing, Wang Dayin, confident in his climbing skills, volunteered to ascend the cliff. Jiang Tong, utilizing a drone and a specialized computer, helped him identify the safest route and anchor points, guiding him with instructions like, "Keep going, a left foothold ten o'clock," and warning him about loose rocks. After a perilous climb, Wang Dayin reached the top but found no sign of the child.

He initially told Jiang Tong to send the drone back as its battery was overheating, but then asked her to keep the drone pointed at him so the child's grandmother could also watch his search. Yan Lan continued her intricate crawl through the tight passage. After a prolonged effort, she finally reached the trapped child.

She quickly confirmed his condition to Bai Xiaolin on the radio, then gently examined the boy, reassured him, and prepared him for extraction by putting a safety helmet on him. She then carefully held him, ready to be pulled out.

After Yan Lan located the trapped child, she discovered he had a fractured right arm. She quickly secured him with her safety belt, instructing him not to be afraid and assuring him that rescuers were waiting outside. Huo Yan, Luo Jie, and the team then guided the child through the narrow passage, carefully pulling him to safety. Ma Qianli was immediately dispatched to check the child's condition. As Yan Lan prepared to exit the passage herself, an aftershock struck.

Huo Yan, without hesitation, reached deep into the cavity to grab Yan Lan’s hand, pulling her out, while Luo Jie courageously propped up a collapsing pillar. Once Yan Lan was safe, Huo Yan checked on her. Ma Qianli tried to take credit for the successful rescue, but Luo Jie jokingly chided him. Another team member remarked on Yan Lan’s extraordinary courage, referring to her as Chief Huo’s partner.

Luo Jie, disheartened, silently left the rescue scene after everyone was brought out. Meanwhile, Wang Dayin searched Cliff Village for a missing child. An elder suggested checking the ancestor hall, an idea supported by Jiang Tong, who reasoned that the hall offered a wide view, likely where a child would wait for returning parents. Wang Dayin found the boy in the ancestor hall, who, crying, insisted on waiting for his mom and dad.

This sight stirred painful memories for Wang Dayin, reminding him of his own childhood and a past rescue where he lost a child. The child’s Granny then spoke to him via walkie-talkie, telling him his parents were safe at home and had sent "uncle" (Wang Dayin) to bring him down, urging him to obey.

Jiang Tong also contacted Wang Dayin, reminding him to stay clear-headed and that this child was not Xiao Pei (the child he had lost), affirming the importance of his current mission. Reinvigorated, Wang Dayin promised the boy he would reunite him with his parents. At the cliff edge, the boy was still very scared. Wang Dayin comforted him, explaining the descent would be quick and fun, as he strapped the child tightly to his body.

During their careful descent down the cliff, Jiang Tong sang a children's song, "Dolly and the Bear are Dancing," over the walkie-talkie to help calm the frightened boy. Upon reaching the ground, the child was joyfully reunited with his Granny, who expressed profound gratitude to Wang Dayin. Jiang Tong, visibly relieved, teased Wang Dayin, joking that he had scared her and playfully threatening not to visit his grave if he had fallen.

Wang Dayin, happy to have a caring comrade, chuckled at her bashful denial of worry. They then proceeded to pack their equipment. As the rescue operations drew to a close, the local residents held a lively bonfire party to thank the fire and medical teams. Luo Jie remained at the base camp, and Liu Xuan stayed with him, understanding his need for companionship.

While Ma Qianli once again attempted to flirt with Bai Xiaolin at the party, offering to treat her as a younger brother if she didn't like older men, she firmly rejected him. Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin also finally felt relieved and smiled. At the bonfire, the local girl who had previously given Huo Yan a sachet invited him to dance. He politely declined, citing tiredness, so she enthusiastically invited Yan Lan to join her, and they both happily danced.

Later, Huo Yan gently clarified to the girl that Yan Lan was his girlfriend. The girl, realizing her mistake, immediately apologized to Yan Lan and wished them happiness, promising to pray for them. Yan Lan graciously accepted, expressing her appreciation for the warm and simple local people. Huo Yan then complimented Yan Lan on her beautiful dancing.

Witnessing Yan Lan's genuine joy, Luo Jie confided in Liu Xuan that he had known Yan Lan since childhood and had never seen her so happy, concluding that while her past achievements were expected, Huo Yan was her truly unexpected delight. He decided to end his pursuit of Yan Lan, admitting his earlier dream of opening a bubble tea shop near her hospital to be near her daily.

Liu Xuan, in her unique way, tried to console him, suggesting that some emotions are futile and that his true match might be closer than he thought. Luo Jie found her earnest, if a little clumsy, comfort endearing. Later that evening, a local resident, Mr. Ma, presented the team with a large bottle of homemade aged rice wine as a gesture of thanks.

Luo Jie initially tried to refuse, citing the firefighters' strict rules against alcohol, but Mr. Ma insisted, and Luo Jie reluctantly accepted. As everyone gathered for ginger tea to ward off the cold, Yan Lan, who disliked ginger, found the bottle of rice wine. Mistaking it for a regular beverage, she drank a significant amount, remarking that it tasted "pretty good." Captain Chen shared a quiet moment with Luo Jie, reflecting on their years together.

Luo Jie expressed his contentment with his life in the fire station and the strong brotherhood he had found. When Captain Chen subtly brought up Yan Lan, Luo Jie admitted that their relationship could only be a friendship, albeit a very close one.

He mused about "missed opportunities," wondering if their story would have been different if he had been the one to rescue her in various past incidents (like the residential building fire) or been assigned to her team during fire-medical joint operations, or been closer during recent dangers. Captain Chen offered a practical perspective, suggesting that Huo Yan's outstanding qualities meant they were likely destined to meet regardless.

Luo Jie, accepting this, concluded that it was destiny and, having tried, held no regrets, despite feeling insignificant in comparison to Huo Yan. During their break, loud shouts suddenly echoed from the loudspeaker, revealing Yan Lan and Liu Xuan, now in a drunken state from the rice wine. They proudly declared themselves the "Southeast Hospital Sisters" and announced an impromptu concert. Hearing the commotion, Luo Jie and Huo Yan rushed to the broadcasting room, only to find the door locked.

Liu Xuan, over the loudspeaker, made a rambling, tearful apology to Yan Lan for past grievances. While Luo Jie went to find tools to force the door open, Huo Yan tried to reason with them. Once inside, Luo Jie quickly took Liu Xuan away. Huo Yan tried to get Yan Lan to put down the microphone, but she defiantly refused, accusing him of acting like an "overbearing CEO."

She tearfully confronted him about why he hadn't sought her out or apologized after their recent argument, questioning if she was still his "baby." Huo Yan, playing along, declared into the microphone that she was the "cutest baby in the world." However, Yan Lan's drunken confessions continued, fluctuating between expressions of deep affection and angry declarations that she hated "bastard Huo Yan." Huo Yan, exasperated but understanding, conceded all fault and desperately pleaded with her to put down the microphone. Their entire conversation was inadvertently broadcast over the camp's loudspeaker, much to the amusement of all the fire and medical personnel, who instantly embraced the unexpected "gossip show."

Drunk and holding a megaphone, Yan Lan continued to scold Huo Yan, telling him he was the "best baby in this world." She then questioned why he had not sought her out or apologized after their argument, accusing him of being "self-assertive" and "like a dictator." Huo Yan repeatedly apologized, saying it was all his fault, and urged her to put down the mic.

When she refused, continuing to rant about his past excuses of acting "for her sake," Huo Yan managed to take the megaphone from her, turned off the broadcast, and then embraced and kissed her. The following morning, Yan Lan and Liu Xuan woke up in the medical tent, feeling unwell. Yan Lan asked Liu Xuan about the alcohol they had consumed. Luo Jie arrived, bringing soy milk for Yan Lan at Huo Yan's request, and another cup for Liu Xuan.

He explained they had drunk rice wine over 30 degrees, finishing half a bottle each. Yan Lan asked if they had embarrassed themselves, but Liu Xuan, who remembered everything clearly, revealed that Yan Lan had sung, danced, and ran around, forming the "Southeast Hospital Sisters" and repeatedly declaring, "Why am I so pretty?" Liu Xuan even recalled carrying Yan Lan back to the tent. Yan Lan was mortified by the revelations.

After washing up, Yan Lan stepped out and saw Wang Dayin leading the firefighters on their morning run. They stopped, saluted, and uniformly greeted her as "Sister-in-law." Overwhelmed with shyness, Yan Lan quickly pulled up her hood and rushed back into the tent. Inside, Ji Yuan played a recording of Yan Lan's drunken declarations from the previous night, including her asking Huo Yan, "Am I your baby?"

This left Yan Lan utterly embarrassed, especially when Ji Yuan threatened to share the recording with their group chat. Later, Luo Jie was by himself, watching the sunset, when Liu Xuan approached him. She teased him about his somber mood, suggesting he was "lacking a lover." Luo Jie playfully plucked a wildflower and gave it to her. In return, Liu Xuan offered him a flower-shaped lollipop and jokingly declared that by accepting her "flower," he was now her "hubby."

Luo Jie tried to return the lollipop, but Liu Xuan insisted that she never took back what she had given. Meanwhile, Ma Qianli arrived, having traveled by bullock cart for half a day to a town to buy snacks for Bai Xiaolin. Yan Lan took the snacks on Bai Xiaolin's behalf, thanking Ma Qianli and telling him he did not have to go through such trouble.

Bai Xiaolin expressed her reluctance to consider Ma Qianli, citing their eight-year age gap and her belief that younger men were generally unreliable and unsuitable for her. Yan Lan, however, teased her for being old-fashioned. With the rescue mission nearing its end, the medical personnel prepared for resident health screenings, and the firefighters commenced their final disinfection tasks to prevent epidemics.

For the journey to the resident health screenings, Yan Lan, still embarrassed by her drunken episode, chose to ride in the less crowded equipment vehicle instead of the main bus with Professor Ye and the rest of the team. During the disinfection work, Wang Dayin was teasing Jiang Tong when Jiang Tong's senior brother appeared. The old friends, who had not seen each other in years, chatted animatedly, much to Wang Dayin's irritation.

He repeatedly interrupted their conversation, causing the senior brother to eventually leave. Taking the opportunity, Wang Dayin showed Jiang Tong a photo of her, declaring her "my girl," and they shared an unexpected kiss. After completing the health screenings, Professor Ye insisted on switching vehicles with Yan Lan. He assured her that he had warned the other medical team members against teasing her about her drunken night, threatening anyone who did so with perpetual night shifts back at the hospital.

He also warmly invited her to his home if she ever wanted to drink again, promising that Mrs. Ye would join her with homemade plum wine. Yan Lan, touched by his kindness, boarded the main bus. Professor Ye then joined Mr. Yang, the driver, in the equipment vehicle. On the bus, Yan Lan was teased by her friends about her relationship with Huo Yan and when they planned to marry.

Bai Xiaolin even took Yan Lan's phone and called Huo Yan. The cheerful atmosphere on the bus was abruptly shattered when a landslide occurred, causing the vehicle to sway violently. Huo Yan, still on the phone with Bai Xiaolin, heard the screams and commotion, instantly realizing something had gone wrong with the medical team. He immediately notified Chief Chen to prepare for casualties.

While the main bus managed to evade the landslide, the equipment vehicle carrying Professor Ye (Ye Qiu Ran) and Mr. Yang, the driver, was struck. Mr. Yang died instantly, and Professor Ye suffered severe injuries. Yan Lan, frantic, rushed to his side and desperately tried to staunch the bleeding with gauze.

Bai Xiaolin called the command center for emergency assistance, and Yan Lan quickly informed them that Professor Ye had the rare Rh-negative type O red blood cells and would need a large supply of it. Paramedics soon arrived and transported Professor Ye to a local hospital. Liu Xuan was already in the operating room preparing for the surgery, which was to be led by Professor Ye's former student, the hospital director.

Professor Ye was found to have multiple rib fractures, a weak heart sound, pericardial injury, and hemopneumothorax. The director immediately ordered the draining of his pericardial effusion and requested two units of Rh-negative type O red blood cells, and then an additional six units. Despite their efforts and Yan Lan quickly retrieving the specially sourced blood from downstairs, Professor Ye ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The hospital contacted Mrs. Ye to arrange the earliest possible flight for her to the hospital.

When Yan Lan rushed to the operating room with the required blood, she was met with the devastating news that Professor Ye had passed away due to severe injuries, including aortic tearing, multiple fractures, and multiple organ failure, making further surgery impossible. Yan Lan struggled to accept this reality, pleading to enter the operating room to perform the surgery herself.

Liu Xuan, her colleague, tried to calm her, explaining Professor Ye’s critical condition and how he couldn't recover from the shock. Yan Lan turned to Huo Yan, expressing her disbelief and urging him to trust that she could save Professor Ye, begging to be let inside. Later, while sitting outside, she quietly ate the eggs Professor Ye had given her earlier, remembering his words to eat them slowly for nutrition. Huo Yan approached a distraught Yan Lan, acknowledging her pain.

He shared that he felt similarly lost when his own father passed away, and that an already departed loved one would not want to see them suffer. He emphasized that she was not alone, assuring her he would always be by her side.

Huo Yan encouraged Yan Lan to express her grief, whether it be to cry, vent, or confide in him, rather than keeping it bottled up and risking her health, as Professor Ye in heaven would surely want her to be well. He then suggested she go home with him to rest. Meanwhile, Chief Chen visited a small noodle shop they frequently went to, silently mourning Professor Ye while eating spicy noodles.

At Dongshan Station, Jiang Tong’s senior, Xu Tao from the Press and Publicity Office, arrived to report. He was tasked with the station's news and media promotions, and was also observed to be quite tall and handsome by Li Yan Liang. Xu Tao greeted Jiang Tong as "Rice Strip," informing her that her father had sent some items for her and left them for her to collect after dismissal.

Li Yan Liang noticed Xu Tao and Jiang Tong’s familiarity, remarking to Wang Dayin that their relationship seemed unusual, though Jiang Tong clarified that Xu Tao was just her senior. Xu Tao also took the opportunity to promote the fire brigade’s social media accounts, "The Flaming Heart," and encouraged everyone to contribute interesting content. Later, Xu Tao tried to interest Jiang Tong in crossing drones, but Jiang Tong stated her preference for staying put at the station.

Wang Dayin, visibly jealous, questioned Jiang Tong about the "transfer materials" Xu Tao brought and her father’s intentions for her to transfer. Jiang Tong asserted it was her father’s unilateral idea and that she had no intention of leaving. Frustrated, Wang Dayin declared he would speak to her father directly about the matter.

Later, Wang Dayin took Jiang Tong to a wedding photography studio that was holding a "stand on the newspaper" couples' game, with a wedding photography package as the prize. Jiang Tong was hesitant but Wang Dayin challenged her, and she agreed. During the game, after successfully progressing through several folds of the newspaper, they were asked about their wedding plans.

Jiang Tong candidly stated that the wedding date would be up to Wang Dayin, and she already had a home, surprising him and causing him to drop her out of surprise. Jiang Tong reassured him that it was just a game, but Wang Dayin still seemed somewhat concerned. They then decided to buy gifts for Jiang Tong's parents. Ma Qianli took a day off, inviting Bai Xiaolin for a meal of crab-roe steamed buns.

Bai Xiaolin agreed, suggesting they also bring Yan Lan, who was still on leave and in low spirits. Meanwhile, Huo Yan, concerned about Yan Lan, ordered takeout for her. The delivery driver called him, reporting that no one answered the door despite the distinctive Doraemon doormat, and Yan Lan's phone also went unanswered. Sensing something was wrong, Huo Yan immediately called Bai Xiaolin, who confirmed she hadn't seen Yan Lan either.

They decided to meet at Yan Lan's apartment; Bai Xiaolin had a spare key. On the way, Huo Yan tasked Li Yan Liang with handling an urgent report for the team. Upon arriving at Yan Lan's apartment, Huo Yan and Bai Xiaolin found her phone on the table but no sign of her. They immediately notified their friends to join the search.

Luo Jie and Liu Xuan, who were at a go-kart track and planning to have caviar and roast duck, received the urgent call about Yan Lan's disappearance and quickly left to help. While searching at an arcade, Huo Yan overheard a child talk about "wishing upon a star." This triggered a memory of his conversation with Yan Lan, reminding him of Professor Ye looking down from above, leading him to believe he knew where Yan Lan might have gone.

Meanwhile, Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin arrived at her parents’ home with gifts. Jiang Tong presented a neck pillow to her mother, who found it more suitable for her father, and slimming tea to her father. Her father jokingly asked if she thought he was out of shape, but her mother intervened, saying she would drink it. Jiang Tong then revealed that the gifts were from her boyfriend, much to her parents' delight.

They insisted on meeting him, and Wang Dayin promptly appeared, giving a respectful salute to Minister Jiang and Madam Jiang. Madam Jiang began asking about his family and education, but Jiang Tong quickly interjected. Minister Jiang, however, recognized Wang Dayin as the squad leader from the Special Duty Station, acknowledging his commendable performance in the recent earthquake rescue. Jiang Tong added that Wang Dayin was smart and responsible.

When asked about his lack of a university degree, Wang Dayin confirmed it. Minister Jiang explained that in this era of technology, firefighters need more than just brute force. He praised Jiang Tong's ambition to develop and implement advanced equipment.

He then suggested Wang Dayin consider enrolling in a fire academy to acquire more scientific and technological knowledge, believing it would not only enhance his career but also make him a better match for Jiang Tong, increasing their chances of being together in the long run. Wang Dayin expressed his lack of confidence in pursuing higher education, feeling he wasn't academically inclined. Jiang Tong, however, reassured him, saying, "Even if you don't trust yourself, don't you trust me?

If I say you can do it, you can do it." She told him he just needed the courage to take the first step, promising to be his unwavering support. Drawing a parallel to their emergency calls, where the outcome is unknown, she encouraged him to trust her and face any challenges together. Convinced, Wang Dayin agreed to give it a try.

Jiang Tong's parents continued their conversation after Wang Dayin left, with Minister Jiang hoping Wang Dayin would thrive on the problems presented, rather than escape them. Madam Jiang, reflecting on her daughter, sighed, noting that "a grown girl can't be kept at home," and that Jiang Tong was practically ready for marriage. The search for Yan Lan continued, with everyone splitting up to look for her.

The captain celebrated his promotion at Professor Ye’s favorite noodle shop with his wife and daughter, Xi Xi. His wife and daughter good-naturedly complained that he spent too little time with them and rarely attended Xi Xi's school events. The captain felt a bit awkward, promising to make more time for them in the future. Meanwhile, Huo Yan arrived at the observatory and found Yan Lan quietly gazing at the city lights and stars.

He expressed his immense relief at finding her, confessing that he had worried what he would do if she wasn't even there. He then gently told her that everyone becomes a star after they pass away. Yan Lan, her voice fragile, asked if this meant Father Ye could hear all the words she said to him. Huo Yan assured her that he could definitely hear them.

Deeply moved by his words, Yan Lan finally broke down and cried in his arms. Elsewhere, Luo Jie, having learned that Yan Lan was found, excitedly offered to treat Liu Xuan to a celebratory drink. Liu Xuan, ever casual, told him she wasn't picky and would have whatever he chose. Back home, Huo Yan prepared a warm bowl of spicy and sour noodles for Yan Lan to ward off the cold.

As she ate, she cried and expressed her desire to visit Mrs. Ye. Huo Yan promised to accompany her the very next day. The following day, Yan Lan accompanied Mrs. Ye to the cemetery to pay respects to Professor Ye. Mrs. Ye revealed that Professor Ye’s body had not been cremated but was donated to their medical college for research. Hearing this, Yan Lan cried once more.

She spoke to Professor Ye's grave, insisting that he must come to her graduation ceremony and turn her tassel. As Huo Yan and Yan Lan left the cemetery, Huo Yan received a call from Ma Qianli about a motor vehicle accident involving brake failure, a rollover, and a slight fire. Concerned about Yan Lan's fragile emotional state, Huo Yan suggested she stay back, but Yan Lan, suddenly resolute, insisted on joining the rescue effort, stating that saving people was paramount.

Dongshan Station firefighters were already en route to the accident site. Huo Yan and Yan Lan quickly joined them, bravely putting their personal grief aside. At the chaotic scene, where the private car had crashed into a roadside barrier, overturned, and was emitting a slight fire, Yan Lan immediately began providing preliminary aid to the injured before the ambulance arrived. Inside the car, a child was trapped in a car seat.

Wang Dayin calmly directed the rescue, personally detaching the car seat to free the child. The child, whose leg was pierced by a rebar, was then taken to the hospital. At the hospital, Yan Lan diverted the child's attention with gentle words, explaining that death meant going to another place and living on in people's hearts. Huo Yan then carefully cut the rebar. After the successful procedure, Yan Lan, overwhelmed by recent emotional strain and physical exhaustion, felt dizzy.

At Huo Yan's insistence, she agreed to rest. En route back to the station, Jiang Tong praised Wang Dayin for his calm and decisive command during the rescue. However, Wang Dayin then expressed his deep concern about their vastly different family backgrounds. He worried that if he couldn't pass the fire academy entrance exam, they might not have a future together. Jiang Tong, initially pleased by his performance, grew angry at his insecurities.

As they talked, they spotted a person on the Nanjing Eye Footbridge preparing to jump into the river. They quickly put on their combat suits, notified headquarters, and exited the vehicle to intervene. On the bridge, Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin engaged the distressed man in conversation. He revealed he had moved to Nanjing with his girlfriend to pursue a better life. She had been accepted into a university, but he hadn't.

Fearing he would hold her back, he initiated a breakup. Wang Dayin, drawing from his own experiences, empathized with the man, stating that those who have "arrived in Rome" cannot truly understand the struggles of those "outside Rome." Jiang Tong, however, urged the man to fight for his relationship by striving to become worthy of his girlfriend, arguing that his current actions were merely an excuse for not taking responsibility.

Their escalating, seemingly contradictory arguments effectively distracted the man, allowing them to swiftly pull him from the edge to safety. Afterwards, Jiang Tong confronted Wang Dayin, asking if his words on the bridge reflected his true feelings. She believed he looked down on himself. Wang Dayin admitted to having problems stemming from his personality and past experiences, causing him to not dare to hope for what he wanted. He then asked for more time.

Later, Huo Yan and Yan Lan went to the countryside to pray for blessings. Yan Lan was still deeply affected by Professor Ye's death, but Huo Yan’s presence and understanding provided her comfort. Separately, Bai Xiaolin attended a blind date arranged by her family with an English teacher. He seemed to meet her criteria: older, stable job, and good personality. He was also pleased with her.

However, during their initial conversation, he quickly shifted to discussing marriage, having children, and even offering to add her name to his apartment's property ownership certificate to share the loan. Bai Xiaolin, who had recently developed feelings for Ma Qianli, felt the conversation was progressing too quickly. Meanwhile, Luo Jie and Liu Xuan went to the cinema.

Liu Xuan was keen on watching a horror movie, but Luo Jie, visibly scared, tried to persuade her otherwise, saying the ghosts were "too ugly." They decided to settle it with rock-paper-scissors, and Liu Xuan won the best of three, confirming their choice of a horror film. In a last-ditch effort, Luo Jie suddenly bolted, claiming he was looking for the toilet. Liu Xuan quickly caught him. He pathetically begged her to watch a comedy instead, and she, unable to resist his pleas, agreed.

Wang Dayin resolved to apply for the Fire and Rescue Academy, but considering his abysmal academic record from high school and the many years he had been away from studying, he tried to lower Jiang Tong’s expectations. However, Jiang Tong immediately reassured him, expressing her full support and belief in his abilities, and offered to tutor him if he was willing to put in the effort. Despite his continued hesitation, he agreed to her offer.

Later, Wang Dayin apologized to Jiang Tong for his previous overthinking, stating that from the moment he saved a man, he realized his biggest regret would be not trying and not working hard. He boldly declared that even if the world were to end tomorrow, he, Wang Dayin, would not take a single step back as long as Jiang Tong was by his side.

He then presented her with a plastic diamond ring (a diamond candy ring), jokingly asking if she would accept this "fool" to prevent him from "harming others." Jiang Tong playfully agreed to "reluctantly accept him and observe him," telling him to quickly put the ring on her finger. She expressed her happiness, although she wished the ring were real, to which Wang Dayin promised to buy her an even bigger, real one when they got married.

The two shared a joyful kiss in the basketball court. Meanwhile, Bai Xiaolin was on a blind date. She explained to the man that since it was their first meeting and they didn't know each other well, she preferred to start as friends, then date, and only consider marriage if their relationship felt right. The man, however, was explicitly seeking marriage and believed compatibility was sufficient, suggesting love could be nurtured after marriage.

Bai Xiaolin firmly disagreed, asserting that love is the essential foundation for marriage, not just suitability. Although he eventually conceded to dating before marriage, he insisted on setting a time limit of six months to a year, leaving Bai Xiaolin pondering his proposal. As Bai Xiaolin waited for a ride home after the date, Ma Qianli, having heard from the hospital that she was on a blind date, rushed to find her.

Seeing her alone, he deduced that she didn’t like her date. He explained that a racing heartbeat indicates true affection and asked if her heart was pounding in his presence. Bai Xiaolin admitted that it was, realizing her feelings for him. Ma Qianli then asked her to be his girlfriend, and she agreed to "try it." Yan Lan, still reeling from Professor Ye Qiu Ran’s death, struggled with depression. Huo Yan continuously stayed by her side, comforting her.

During her doctoral graduation speech, Yan Lan, a clinical medicine graduate, expressed her gratitude and pride in having Professor Ye Qiu Ran as her mentor, whom she affectionately called "Father Ye." She acknowledged the sadness of his absence at her graduation, then reflected on his most frequent teaching: "doctors do not treat themselves."

While she didn’t want to simply repeat it as a motto, she shared her personal struggle after his death, blaming herself for not being able to save him. She admitted to thinking she would never recover from the trauma but found the courage to stand there, inspired by Professor Ye. She redefined his teaching, stating, "doctors do not treat themselves, but saving others is like saving themselves," concluding her heartfelt address as Huo Yan watched proudly.

Back at home, Xian Jie was in a frantic state after the crabs she bought for Yan Lan escaped, scattering throughout the house. Huo Yan arrived and immediately helped his mother round them up. Xian Jie explained that she was trying to impress Yan Lan because Huo Yan wasn't adept at expressing sweet sentiments, and she was worried about securing Yan Lan as her daughter-in-law.

Huo Yan tried to reassure her that Yan Lan wouldn't "get away," but Xian Jie countered that if crabs could escape, so could people, expressing her deepest fear. Later that evening, Xian Jie secretly listened to Huo Yan’s phone call with Yan Lan, delighted to hear them both confessing how much they missed each other. Huo Yan even mentioned wanting to marry Yan Lan soon so they could be together every day.

The next morning, Xian Jie woke Huo Yan at 7 AM, excitedly urging him to prepare for Yan Lan's arrival later that day, as she had also invited Chief Chen and his wife to "inspect" her future daughter-in-law. Huo Yan complained about the impromptu gathering, but Xian Jie insisted it was all part of the preparations for their wedding banquet.

Before going to Huo Yan's house, Yan Lan sought advice from Bai Xiaolin on how to make a good first impression on Xian Jie. Bai Xiaolin, in exchange for Huo Yan granting Ma Qianli a day off, gave Yan Lan four words of wisdom: "cater to her pleasure." She clarified that this meant discussing topics Xian Jie liked and gifting her something she would appreciate.

Yan Lan initially thought of bringing health products for the middle-aged and elderly, but Bai Xiaolin quickly warned against it, explaining it would make Xian Jie feel old. She then suggested an alternative, more suitable skincare product. Upon arriving at Huo Yan's house, Yan Lan was introduced to Chief Chen and his wife, whom she addressed as Auntie.

Yan Lan presented Xian Jie with the hospital's newly developed skincare products, suitable for women of all ages, praising Xian Jie's youthful appearance and guessing her age to be around thirty, not fifty. Xian Jie was immensely pleased, accepting the gift with delight and confessing that she "psychologically" felt thirty.

During dinner, Xian Jie jokingly declared Yan Lan as part of the family, free to come and go as she pleased, while Huo Yan was now the "outsider" who had to obey Yan Lan. Chief Chen's wife, however, interjected to defend Huo Yan, pointing out the dangerous nature of a firefighter's job and acknowledging that it takes a courageous woman to marry one. As Huo Yan went to serve soup, Xian Jie inquired about Yan Lan's childhood.

Yan Lan recounted a traumatic experience from her youth: as a child, she had playfully wandered into a chemical plant, which subsequently exploded. A firefighter had bravely rescued her, but she suffered severe smoke inhalation, leading to persistent heart and lung issues and recurring nightmares. Her parents then moved her to another city for a change of environment.

She revealed that she later learned the heroic firefighter who saved her had tragically died in that incident, and she vowed to live a full life to honor his sacrifice. Xian Jie, upon hearing Yan Lan's story, asked for the specific year and location, confirming it was the chemical plant fire in Nanjing in 2000. Realizing with horror that the details matched the circumstances of her husband, Huo Qingshan's, death, Xian Jie's mood instantly plummeted, and she began to cry.

Huo Yan returned with the soup, oblivious to the emotional revelation he had just missed. Chief Chen's wife quickly covered for Xian Jie, claiming she was simply overjoyed that Huo Yan had found such a wonderful girlfriend. Huo Yan, seeing his mother's tears, was puzzled. After dinner, Chief Chen quickly departed with his wife. Once they were alone, Chief Chen's wife pressed him about his visible distress.

He revealed the painful truth: Huo Qingshan, Huo Yan’s father, died in the chemical plant fire in 2000 while saving the very child who was now Huo Yan’s girlfriend, Yan Lan. Later, Xian Jie stood alone at Huo Qingshan's gravesite, distraught by the cruel twist of fate. She never imagined that the girl her son brought home would be the one whose life cost her husband his own.

Sister Xian visited Huo Qing Song's tomb, sharing with him that their son, Huo Yan, was now in a relationship. She described his girlfriend, Yan Lan, as a beautiful, lovely, and kind doctor, a truly wonderful girl. However, a profound sadness overtook Sister Xian as she revealed that Yan Lan was the very girl Huo Qing Song had saved, whose rescue ultimately led to his sacrifice.

Despite her genuine affection for Yan Lan, the knowledge of this connection overwhelmed her with emotion. She admitted she didn't know how to tell the young couple the truth and, fearing her uncontrolled grief might upset Yan Lan and jeopardize Huo Yan's happiness, decided to temporarily avoid seeing Yan Lan. Meanwhile, Yan Lan, having sent a message to Sister Xian about bringing salted duck, received no reply.

She confided in Bai Xiaolin, worrying that her previous visit might have displeased Sister Xian. Bai Xiaolin advised her not to overthink a mother-in-law's feelings and suggested visiting Sister Xian after work to clarify. Still, Yan Lan felt a sense of unease. Upon arriving at Huo Yan's house, Yan Lan called out to Sister Xian, but the lights, which were initially on, quickly went dark.

Realizing Sister Xian was pretending not to be home, Yan Lan felt her fears confirmed that Sister Xian indeed disliked her. Yan Lan relayed her concerns to Huo Yan. Initially surprised by Yan Lan's worries about his mother, Huo Yan reassured her, stating that his mother adored her, almost treating her as her own daughter. Yan Lan, however, speculated that Sister Xian might feel as though she was being replaced, having been Huo Yan's sole companion for so long.

Huo Yan promised to return home that day to discreetly gauge his mother's true feelings. He then suggested they enjoy their rare day off together. However, Yan Lan received an urgent call from her professor, requiring her to transmit an important document from home, cutting their date short. Huo Yan drove her back.

When Yan Lan's parents arrived unexpectedly at her apartment, Huo Yan, who was present, initially described himself as "here to collect the delivery," much to the parents' surprise. Yan Lan quickly introduced him as her boyfriend, their future son-in-law, a sentiment her parents immediately echoed. Her parents were immediately charmed by Huo Yan's handsome looks and sweet words, expressing regret for not dressing more formally for the unexpected meeting.

To give the young couple some privacy, they comically excused themselves by claiming they had a "square dancing" engagement. Afterward, Yan Lan still voiced her concerns about Sister Xian, but Huo Yan confidently reassured her, stating he would eliminate any "risk" to their relationship. He revealed his plan to organize a surprise birthday party for his mother at the fire station next week, where Yan Lan could showcase her cooking skills.

Yan Lan took this seriously, even critiquing hospital meals, though her friend Bai Xiaolin was surprised, knowing Yan Lan rarely held a kitchen knife, usually only a scalpel. Yan Lan insisted it was worth it for family harmony and happiness. Huo Yan was certain that "a good feast" could solve any misunderstanding. Elsewhere, Luo Jie visited his father, who was hosting Director Li from a drug testing center.

After Director Li's departure, Luo Jie's father spoke with him about the family pharmaceutical business, acknowledging its struggle to keep pace with modern trends due to a lack of research and development for new drug patents. He contrasted Luo Jie's traditional business outlook with a young entrepreneur (related to Han's Pharmaceutical), who had achieved great success in real estate and was venturing into pharmaceuticals with an asset-light, R&D-focused strategy.

Luo Jie's father conceded that Luo Jie's inherently loyal and caring nature was ill-suited for the cutthroat business world, and that firefighting was a more appropriate path. He expressed that after all these years, his primary concern was Luo Jie's safety and happiness, rather than forcing him to inherit the family business. Moved by his father's words, Luo Jie offered him a massage, which his father found very helpful.

Meanwhile, Jiang Tong took charge of Wang Dayin's exam preparations, pulling him from a mobile KTV to a study room. Wang Dayin lamented his predicament, comparing his study-filled dates to other couples' casual outings. His teammates attempted to lighten the mood with loud singing but were swiftly silenced by Jiang Tong, who sternly declared they were disturbing "her man's" studies.

When Wang Dayin later tried to ask Huo Yan for help with a math problem involving buying and selling a chicken and weighing rabbits with an improper scale, Jiang Tong intervened, stressing the importance of self-reliance for the exam.

Li Yanliang and Ma Qianli then visited Wang Dayin, bringing him a blessing from Jiming Temple and playfully dubbing him "The Bajie of an Exam Preparation," humorously listing out "precepts" such as "no naps, no games, no drama," which Wang Dayin accepted, except for "no Jiang Tong."

Chief Chen then informed Huo Yan that his transfer had been approved and that Huo Yan's promotion to the new Chief of Dongshan Station was imminent, with an official ceremony to be held soon. He advised Huo Yan to cherish the remaining time with Sister Xian, as his new duties would leave him with even less time for her.

Huo Yan returned home, where Sister Xian, in the midst of texting Chief Chen's wife about her plan to subtly reveal Yan Lan's identity during a "feast" for Huo Yan, hastily hid her phone. Huo Yan playfully accused her of engaging in a "sunset love," which she parried by stating she would only consider a "sunrise love."

During dinner, Chief Chen's wife initiated the delicate conversation, subtly inquiring if Yan Lan had "cardiopulmonary function" issues, observing her panting after short runs. When Huo Yan dismissed it as merely poor stamina, Chief Chen's wife elaborated, sharing a story about a friend's daughter who suffered lasting lung damage from choking on thick smoke during a house fire as a child, clearly hinting at Yan Lan's own traumatic past and its connection to the tragedy involving Huo Yan's father.

During a conversation with Huo Yan, Mrs. Chen pointed out that Yan Lan seemed to have poor cardiopulmonary function, frequently gasping for breath after short runs. Huo Yan confirmed Yan Lan's low stamina but was unsure about her lung condition. Mrs. Chen then drew a connection to an old classmate's daughter who developed similar issues after inhaling thick smoke during a childhood house fire, subtly hinting that Yan Lan might have had a similar experience.

She advised Huo Yan to clarify Yan Lan's health before marriage. Sister Xian added to the conversation, noting that Yan Lan's family moved away in 2000, the same year Huo Yan's father died while on duty, suggesting a deeper link. Huo Yan, however, missed the underlying meaning of their words and decided he would ask Yan Lan directly when the opportunity arose.

Mrs. Chen and Sister Xian then reflected on how much Huo Yan's father, Huo Qing Song, had always wanted a daughter, and how he would have adored Yan Lan, treating her like his own flesh and blood. Huo Yan mused that he couldn't imagine his stern father being a "daughter's slave" because his dad used to be so strict with him. Sister Xian almost revealed the truth to Huo Yan, but hesitated and changed the subject.

Later, Sister Xian confided in Mrs. Chen, expressing her struggle with telling Huo Yan the truth. She explained that seeing Yan Lan constantly reminded her of Huo Yan’s father, making it difficult for her to face the young woman. Mrs. Chen reassured her, saying that each generation has its own life to live and they should look forward, not dwell on the past.

Meanwhile, at Dongshan Station, Yan Lan was diligently practicing cooking in the kitchen, preparing for Sister Xian's upcoming birthday celebration. Li Yanliang observed her efforts, noting her less-than-stellar culinary skills and playfully remarking on her "dark cuisine." He offered to step in and handle the cooking himself to save the meal, which Yan Lan appreciated. Huo Yan brought Sister Xian to the station for a surprise birthday party. He presented her with a super cute dress from Yan Lan's mother.

Sister Xian was overjoyed with the gift, but upon learning it was from her future in-law, she became visibly emotional, tearing up. She quickly attributed her tears to being "too happy" to control herself. The firefighters and Yan Lan gathered, singing "Happy Birthday" to Sister Xian. Yan Lan then presented her with a special collection of mystery boxes. Overwhelmed with emotion, Sister Xian abruptly excused herself, apologizing profusely as she hurried out of the room.

Confused and concerned, Yan Lan followed Sister Xian. She led her to a claw machine arcade, where they spent some time playing, successfully grabbing a few mystery boxes. As they sat down, Yan Lan pressed Sister Xian to explain why she had been crying and acting so strangely.

Sister Xian, unable to hold back any longer, finally revealed the painful truth: Huo Yan's father, Huo Qing Song, was the firefighter who had saved Yan Lan from the fire when she was a child, and he had died in the line of duty because of it.

Sister Xian explained that seeing Yan Lan grow into such a kind and accomplished doctor filled her with bittersweet emotion, knowing that Huo Qing Song’s sacrifice was not in vain, but also causing her immense grief. She admitted she had been avoiding Yan Lan, fearing that her emotional reactions would make Yan Lan think she was crazy and jeopardize her relationship with Huo Yan. Yan Lan was stunned by the revelation, feeling a wave of guilt and remorse.

She vowed to take good care of Sister Xian and Huo Yan, strengthening their bond instantly. Back at home, Yan Lan and Sister Xian discussed how to break the news to Huo Yan. Yan Lan suggested that Huo Yan's past struggles with balancing his firefighting career and family life were a clear indication of how deeply his father's death affected him, despite his calm exterior. They agreed that the truth needed to be shared, but with great care.

Just then, Huo Yan returned home, puzzled by his mother's frequent crying and the sudden closeness between Yan Lan and Sister Xian. Yan Lan quickly covered for Sister Xian, playfully telling Huo Yan that his mother was simply overjoyed to have another daughter. Separately, Mrs. Chen visited Chen Ping Geng at his station, bringing him a meal. He revealed his transfer orders, much to her surprise and delight.

She exclaimed that "the impossible is finally happening," thrilled at the prospect of him spending more time at home. Later, Yan Lan met Huo Yan at a park, intending to tell him the full story of his father's sacrifice. To her astonishment, Huo Yan calmly stated that he already knew. He explained that on Yan Lan's first day at Dongshan Station, he had looked into her background and realized she was the little girl his father had saved.

He had kept this knowledge to himself because he didn't want Yan Lan to be with him out of a sense of obligation or gratitude. Both felt immense relief now that the truth was out, and their relationship grew even stronger. That evening, Huo Yan helped his mother wind yarn, as Sister Xian planned to knit a sweater for Yan Lan.

Sister Xian playfully accused Huo Yan of being as "scheming" as his father, having known the truth all along and seeing through her and Mrs. Chen's subtle attempts to reveal it at dinner. Huo Yan simply chuckled, admitting he inherited his father's cleverness. The following day, a medal ceremony was held at Dongshan Station, where Huo Yan was formally promoted to Station Chief. Yan Lan and Sister Xian were among the attendees.

The Fire Department Minister commenced the ceremony, honoring Huo Qing Song, who had died 20 years prior saving a child, highlighting his bravery and sacrifice. Chief Chen Ping Geng delivered a poignant eulogy, recalling the tragic day Huo Qing Song selflessly rushed into the fire, leaving behind his wife and young son.

He emphasized that Huo Qing Song's memory lived on in the dreams of his family and the child he saved, and that the fire station, his comrades, and the people would never forget his unwavering dedication. Chen Ping Geng affirmed that generations of firefighters would continue to uphold their duty, fearlessly facing danger, and ensuring Huo Qing Song's legacy of heroism endured.

He concluded by telling Huo Qing Song to rest in peace, as they would continue to protect the beautiful world he died to save. Finally, the Minister announced that Huo Qing Song’s police number and firefighting badge, which had remained unused since his death, would now be passed on to his son, Huo Yan, the new Station Chief of Dongshan. Huo Yan stepped forward to receive the honor, symbolizing the continuation of his father's spirit and mission.

Huo Yan stood proudly as he received his father’s former police badge from his superior, a moment of immense honor that also brought a wave of longing for his late father. The leader emphasized that the honor Huo Yan received not only belonged to him personally but also to all firefighters, urging him to always remember a firefighter’s mission and responsibility.

Afterward, the Dongshan Station gathered to celebrate Huo Yan’s achievement and bid farewell to Chief Chen, who was preparing for a transfer. One of the firefighters expressed reluctance for Chief Chen to leave but congratulated him on his new assignment. During the dinner, Huo Yan and Yan Lan openly displayed their affection, leading others to tease Luo Jie about his past fervent pursuit of Yan Lan.

Luo Jie clarified that his "roguish heart" was no longer set on Yan Lan, stating, "I did passionately chase after Doctor Yan previously," but assured everyone it was "over." Yan Lan then playfully revealed that Luo Jie now had a new love interest: Liu Xuan, a colleague of Yan Lan’s and a former "rival." Li Yan Liang further divulged that Liu Xuan, despite her delicate appearance, was quite formidable, even winning an argument against the hospital director.

He proudly declared himself the station's unofficial entertainment reporter for hospital news. Later that evening, Luo Jie waited for Liu Xuan after her shift at the hospital. Liu Xuan, eager for their relationship to progress, happily joined him for barbecue. Meanwhile, Wang Dayin was diligently studying for an upcoming mock exam. His intense efforts, perhaps coupled with consuming too many brain-boosting supplements, led to a night of severe stomach upset, causing him to run to the restroom repeatedly.

Huo Yan, seeing Wang Dayin unwell, instructed his colleagues to let him rest. Wang Dayin, frustrated by his phone distracting him, taped it shut to focus on his studies. Huo Yan later offered Wang Dayin a "stool with love," which was actually a pile of study materials, to encourage him further. Huo Yan and Yan Lan attended a college reunion. There, Huo Yan encountered Han Pei, CEO of Han's Pharmaceuticals, whom he evidently despised.

Huo Yan ignored Han Pei, taking Yan Lan directly to their table. Han Pei persisted, approaching them to offer a toast, but Huo Yan deflected his attempts and soon made an excuse to leave with Yan Lan. On the way home, Yan Lan asked about the awkward interaction. Huo Yan confessed that it brought back painful memories from their school days.

He recalled how Han Pei, leveraging his wealthy family background, pressured other students to help him cheat and even organized his cronies to beat up Huo Yan when he tried to intervene. Later, while Huo Yan and Yan Lan were out, Zhu Factory Manager, still masked, secretly entered Yan Lan's apartment by picking the lock. He was searching for a pen that contained vital information, which he had discreetly placed in Yan Lan's pocket during an earthquake rescue operation.

After finding the pen and its contents, he quickly left, but his departure was secretly photographed by someone trailing him. Returning home, Yan Lan noticed issues with her fingerprint lock. Inside, Huo Yan discovered signs of a forced entry and an uncapped pen lying on the floor.

To avoid alarming Yan Lan, he subtly suggested she stay at the fire station for a few days, ostensibly so he could "see her every day," a playful excuse she dismissed, citing her upcoming thesis and believing that "absence makes the heart grow fonder." Huo Yan, however, was genuinely concerned. Remembering a masked individual he had seen at the KTV earlier, he returned there, feigning a lost phone to check the surveillance footage.

He found a clear image of the masked person. Unbeknownst to them, Han Pei had employed someone to follow Zhu Factory Manager. Upon learning that Zhu Factory Manager had been to Yan Lan's building, Han Pei grew contemplative. Simultaneously, Luo Jie, still suspicious of Han Pei after their awkward meeting at his father's house, asked a friend to investigate him.

Luo Jie's father, who was considering a business partnership with Han Pei, had praised Han Pei as "reliable," "competent," "hardworking," and "kindhearted," despite Luo Jie's strong objections that Han Pei was a "hypocrite" who "changes face faster than flipping a book." Luo Jie's father dismissed his son's concerns, telling him to stick to his firefighting duties and not worry about family business. Luo Jie’s friend informed him of a place Han Pei frequently visited.

Luo Jie went there and witnessed Han Pei meeting with Director Li, attempting to persuade him to approve unqualified drugs for Han's Pharmaceuticals. Director Li expressed reservations due to national regulations, but Han Pei assured him he would be "rewarded" if he complied. After they left, Luo Jie retrieved a document Han Pei's secretary had discarded in a trash bin. The document contained surveillance records of Zhu Factory Manager, with Yan Lan's apartment circled.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Luo Jie immediately took the document and rushed home to warn his father against cooperating with Han Pei, dismissing his father's existing report on Han Pei as "definitely fake."

Luo Jie returned home with his findings, attempting to dissuade his father from partnering with Han Pei. He presented evidence, including reports indicating Han Pei's past unscrupulous dealings, such as building apartments with severely excessive formaldehyde levels. However, his father, confident in his years of business experience, dismissed Luo Jie’s concerns. He produced his own report, which portrayed Han Pei as a reputable figure, and believed Luo Jie was naive, accusing him of misjudging the situation.

Luo Jie insisted his father's report was fake and that Han Pei was orchestrating a "two-man comic show" to entrap them. He also mentioned witnessing Han Pei in a furtive conversation with Director Li, suspecting that Yan Lan was somehow involved. His father, however, declared that his cooperation with Han Pei, based on a beneficial patent licensing and sales sharing model, was purely a business matter, not a personal one, and told Luo Jie to mind his own business.

For Yan Lan's safety, Huo Yan installed a sophisticated security camera in her apartment. He explained that the camera offered smoke and fire detection and alarm capabilities, reassuring her that her well-being was his priority. Yan Lan expressed her appreciation for his thoughtfulness. Meanwhile, Han Pei's men apprehended Mr. Zhu, who had been trying to escape. Han Pei confronted Mr. Zhu about the whereabouts of a crucial USB flash drive, suspecting it was hidden in a pen.

He was already aware that Mr. Zhu had recently infiltrated Yan Lan's apartment disguised as a worker. Han Pei intensified his interrogation by showing Mr. Zhu a photo of Yan Lan and hinting at threats to Mr. Zhu's wife and children if he did not cooperate. Mr. Zhu, under duress, confessed that he had hidden the pen containing the USB drive at Yan Lan’s house, without her knowledge, and had been unable to retrieve it when he returned.

Han Pei emphasized that while he had numerous ways to locate the drive, he preferred honesty and loyalty from those close to him. Following this revelation, Han Pei visited Yan Lan at the hospital, feigning a toothache to see her. Yan Lan, who knew Han Pei only as Huo Yan's old classmate and was unaware of the deeper animosity between them, treated him with professional warmth.

As he departed, Han Pei "accidentally" left behind a small, cute fire truck keychain, which he then offered to Yan Lan as a gift. Unbeknownst to her, the keychain concealed a listening device. Yan Lan happily accepted it and later sent a video of the keychain to Huo Yan. Driven by his suspicion and desire to protect his family's business, Luo Jie independently sought a meeting with Han Pei, proposing a direct partnership to discuss Han's Pharmaceuticals' monoclonal antibody drug.

He was direct, highlighting their complementary strengths in R&D, production, and sales. Han Pei, however, saw through Luo Jie's eagerness and refused to disclose any research findings, questioning Luo Jie's authority to negotiate such a deal given his role as a firefighter. Han Pei stressed that business followed strict protocols, implying that Luo Jie was out of line. Immediately after Luo Jie's departure, Han Pei contacted Luo Jie's father, lodging a complaint about Luo Jie's unsolicited visit.

Enraged, Luo's father vehemently scolded Luo Jie, with his mother attempting to calm the situation. Luo's father criticized his son's approach, stating that business required calculated strategy, not the impetuousness of firefighting. Luo Jie, however, defended his actions, maintaining that firefighting also demanded strategy and asserting his strong intuition that Han Pei's new drug was flawed and potentially harmful. He declared that his strategy might have been imperfect, but his instincts were not.

Witnessing his father's unwavering stubbornness, Luo Jie made a pivotal decision: he offered to resign from the Fire and Rescue Brigade and return to manage the family business, but only if he was granted a legitimate role in the Han Pei project. His parents, particularly his mother, were overcome with emotion, years of anxiety over his dangerous profession finally giving way to relief.

Luo's father agreed to the proposal but laid down two conditions: Luo Jie must formally quit the fire brigade before engaging in the Han Pei project, and he must accept all of his father's arrangements. Luo Jie readily accepted. As Yan Lan worked at the hospital, Han Pei, monitoring her through the bugged keychain, noted she was still occupied. He promptly dispatched his men to her apartment, instructing them to search for the pen within a 30-minute window.

Meanwhile, Yan Lan discussed with a colleague an alarming increase in angioma cases, deciding to report it to her director. That evening, as Huo Yan drove Yan Lan home, she realized she had left her pen in his car. After Huo Yan dropped her off, she entered her apartment to find it ransacked. To avoid alarming Huo Yan, she called him on the phone, feigning that her "neighbor's cat" had made the mess.

Huo Yan, discerning the seriousness of the situation, instructed her to wait downstairs. As Yan Lan left her apartment, a man disguised as a worker, likely the intruder, quickly exited and departed upon seeing Huo Yan arrive. Inside, Huo Yan confirmed his suspicions, noting the tampered lock and an uncapped pen on the floor, similar to a previous incident. He urged Yan Lan to stay at Bai Xiaolin's house, deeming her apartment unsafe. Suddenly, cries for help echoed from outside.

A worker was dangling precariously from a high-rise balcony. Huo Yan immediately called 119. Luo Jie and his team arrived quickly, but their access was obstructed by two illegally parked cars blocking the emergency exit. With no time to spare, Luo Jie, without waiting for backup, took the initiative to rappel down from the roof to rescue the worker, with Huo Yan assisting from the ground.

After successfully bringing the worker to safety, Luo Jie reprimanded the building management for the blocked emergency exit, emphasizing the severe fire safety risks. The rescued worker explained that his usual partner was absent, and a temporary colleague had tied the safety rope to the roof but then disappeared. He stated that the rope had come loose after he had cleaned just one floor. Yan Lan, Huo Yan, and Luo Jie listened to his account.

Huo Yan also advised the worker to seek a medical examination. Their conversation with the worker was secretly filmed. Following the rescue, Huo Yan sternly confronted Luo Jie, criticizing his reckless high-altitude descent without proper team protection. He emphasized that such actions, though successful, violated regulations. Luo Jie acknowledged the warning, assuring Huo Yan that it wouldn't happen again and lightly quipping about whether Huo Yan intended to penalize him.

Huo Yan dismissed the idea, simply telling him to return to the station. Later, while driving Yan Lan to Bai Xiaolin's home, Huo Yan noticed interference with his car's signal, which he resolved to investigate. Han Pei, listening in through the bug, also registered this signal disruption. After dropping off Yan Lan with a playful promise to "take care of her," Huo Yan's thoughts returned to the unusual events.

He recalled Yan Lan mentioning her lost pen and the recent break-in at her apartment. Searching his car, he found the pen, opened it, and discovered a hidden USB drive, finally connecting the pieces of the mystery. Concurrently, Luo Jie was seen drafting his resignation from the Fire and Rescue Brigade. Ma Qianli, discovering the document, also found a report written by Huo Yan detailing Luo Jie's dangerous, unauthorized rescue.

Ma Qianli mistakenly believed Huo Yan's report was the catalyst for Luo Jie's departure and earnestly tried to persuade him to stay, reminding him of his promise to teach him rope rescue techniques. Despite Ma Qianli's emotional appeal, Luo Jie remained firm in his decision to leave the team, asking him to understand and implying that they would still see each other in the future.

Luo Jie, preparing to leave the fire brigade, explicitly told Ma Qianli that he didn't want anyone to see him off, as he wished to avoid seeing his comrades upset. He then sternly dismissed Ma Qianli from his office. Ma Qianli, in tears, shared the news of Luo Jie's departure with their fellow firefighters, who were upset. Li Yanliang and others misunderstood, believing Luo Jie was leaving due to Huo Yan's official record of his previous rescue violation.

They wanted to confront Huo Yan and make him retract the report, thinking such a conversation could resolve the issue among brothers. Wang Dayin, however, believed Huo Yan was a good person and wouldn't act in bad faith. Back at the fire station, Huo Yan examined the flash drive he found. It contained a document titled "Han's Pharmaceuticals PD1 Monoclonal Antibody Clinical Medicine Report."

Since he couldn't comprehend the complex medical terminology, Huo Yan immediately called his friend Wang to ask for assistance in reviewing the reports. Huo Yan approached Luo Jie during lunch, seeking to understand his true reasons for leaving. He asked if it was due to Yan Lan, his own promotion to station chief, or the alarm report form about his rescue violation. Luo Jie dismissed these suggestions, stating simply that he just wanted to return home.

Later, Luo Jie encountered Chief Chen, who questioned him about his decision to leave, suspecting unresolved issues with Huo Yan. Chief Chen pressed him, reminding Luo Jie how he risked his life to save Huo Yan in a fire and urging him to reveal the real reason for his departure, threatening to withhold approval of his resignation. Luo Jie, unable to disclose the full truth, could only say that some things were difficult to explain.

Recognizing Luo Jie's resolve, Chief Chen relented, emphasizing that regardless of where Luo Jie went, he would always be a part of their team, and the team's honor and faith should never be forgotten. He then gave Luo Jie the approved withdrawal application. At the hospital, Ma Qianli, after some hesitation, sought out Bai Xiaolin and Yan Lan, explaining that Luo Jie was leaving the fire brigade.

He clarified that Luo Jie's departure was due to a conflict with Huo Yan, specifically about Huo Yan recording Luo Jie's previous rescue violation in his police record. He urged them to help find a solution. Unbeknownst to them, Han Pei was remotely listening to their conversation through a hidden bug on Yan Lan. Upon learning of the tension between Luo Jie and Huo Yan, Han Pei, seeing an opportunity, immediately called Luo Jie.

Han Pei expressed surprise at Luo Jie's call but quickly revealed his awareness of the friction between Luo Jie and Huo Yan, suggesting that they could have become "brothers" sooner if he had known. When Luo Jie asked how Han Pei knew they were at odds, Han Pei dismissed the question, implying that Luo Jie was no longer important to Huo Yan's group. Seizing the moment, Han Pei proposed that they discuss a potential collaboration.

Luo Jie, playing along, agreed to talk about cooperation. Driven by concern, Bai Xiaolin visited the fire station with Ma Qianli, intending to mend the strained relationship between Huo Yan and Luo Jie. They initiated a game of "truth or dare." Luo Jie tried to leave, but his comrades urged him to stay and participate.

Bai Xiaolin, as the questioner for the first round, posed pointed questions at Huo Yan: "If you and your bro both fell in love with the same girl at the same time, what would you say to your bro?"

Huo Yan responded, "There's nothing wrong with love," and when pressed with another question about whether he would yield a promotion opportunity to his brother, he unequivocally stated, "No." In the next round, Li Yanliang directly appealed to Luo Jie, reminding him of their shared experiences and loyalty, saying, "You saved Brother Yan when the tin house caught fire. Earthquake rescue was so dangerous. You two led us through together.

So, no matter what happens, we will not abandon each other, right?" Luo Jie, seemingly unable to voice his true feelings, chose "Dare" instead of "Truth." Yan Lan approached Director Li at the drug testing center, expressing her concerns about the increasing number of sick children and the new drug's clinical trial results.

She pointed out that patients participating in the trials were developing angiomas, growths on the skin surface, which she believed was a side effect of the new drug and required immediate correction. Director Li, however, vehemently denied any issues, insisting that the new drug was safe and that the angiomas were isolated incidents unrelated to the medication. He quickly dismissed Yan Lan, citing an upcoming meeting. Shortly after Yan Lan left, Han Pei arrived at Director Li's office.

Director Li initially tried to withdraw his cooperation, reminding Han Pei that he had already risked his professional integrity by covering up the previous clinical trial report for him. He pleaded with Han Pei to let him go, emphasizing the potential disastrous consequences for his company if the truth came out. Han Pei, unfazed by the ethical dilemma, first tried to bribe Director Li, and when that failed, he resorted to a severe threat.

He played an audio recording of Director Li's daughter, indicating he had her under surveillance, effectively blackmailing Director Li into continuing to falsify the drug data. Under duress, Director Li had no choice but to comply. Before his final departure, Huo Yan made one last emotional plea to Luo Jie to stay, offering to take full responsibility and punishment for the rescue violation.

He asked Luo Jie to keep an eye on their younger comrades, specifically to guide Wang Dayin towards the Fire and Rescue Academy and to rein in Li Yanliang's reckless bravery during missions. Luo Jie, in turn, entrusted Huo Yan with caring for Ma Qianli, the youngest of the group.

He also told Huo Yan to take care of himself, revealing that he knew Huo Yan grinds his teeth due to stress and advising him to confide in his brothers more. Despite the heartfelt exchange, Luo Jie remained firm in his decision and quickly left, trying to conceal his reluctance.

Later, Luo Jie met with Liu Xuan and finally revealed that he had left the fire brigade and was returning to work at his family's pharmaceutical company, no longer a firefighter. Liu Xuan expressed her full support for his decision, which deeply touched Luo Jie. Moved by her unwavering encouragement, he proposed that she become his girlfriend. She playfully made him repeat the proposal multiple times before accepting.

Luo Jie then returned to the fire station to gather his belongings, symbolically removing his firefighter's badge. He paused to reflect on his cherished memories at the station, offering a final salute before walking away. Huo Yan, on his day off, met Luo Jie at a small restaurant. Luo Jie, now identifying himself as "Mr. Luo," ordered Baijiu, a new habit for him.

Acknowledging Luo Jie's unwavering decision to leave, Huo Yan presented him with a thank-you letter from Zhou Ying, a person they had both rescued. Luo Jie was visibly moved, asking about Zhou Ying's recovery, and gratefully accepted the letter as a keepsake. Luo Jie then apologized to Huo Yan, admitting he was at fault for letting everyone believe his departure was due to their conflict.

He finally revealed his true purpose: he had returned home to investigate a matter involving Yan Lan and his family's company, specifically related to Han's Pharmaceuticals. He emphasized that he intended to protect Yan Lan from a familial standpoint, not romantically. Luo Jie expressed no regrets about leaving the fire brigade, stating that he had dedicated his best years to Dongshan Station.

Huo Yan, however, pointed out the emotional toll his departure took on their comrades, many of whom were losing sleep over it. Huo Yan then disclosed that he was already aware of Han Pei tracking Yan Lan. He revealed that Han Pei had hidden a crucial flash drive and a listening device on Yan Lan, and the flash drive was now in his possession.

The drive contained complex medical reports related to Han's Pharmaceuticals' PD1 monoclonal antibody, which neither of them could fully comprehend. Luo Jie confirmed his current strategy, explaining that he was already collaborating with Han Pei as a means to slowly get closer to him, but noted Han Pei seemed to know a lot about their movements, making him a dangerous individual. Huo Yan then reassured Luo Jie that he had successfully removed the bug from Yan Lan. Luo Jie sighed, realizing he still owed Yan Lan an explanation, to which Huo Yan humorously retorted that Luo Jie owed him even more.

Luo Jie and Huo Yan shared drinks, resolving their past conflicts. Luo Jie admitted he owed Yan Lan an explanation, and Huo Yan countered that Luo Jie also owed him one. They both agreed that their most pressing concern was to protect Yan Lan, vowing to keep no more secrets from each other. Feigning discord with Huo Yan, Luo Jie met with Han Pei to discuss potential cooperation.

Han Pei was eager to finalize a deal quickly, but Luo Jie, strategically flattering Han Pei and asserting his understanding of the pharmaceutical market, insisted on mutual inspections to ensure transparency. He first invited Han Pei to visit Luo's Pharmaceuticals that afternoon. Meanwhile, Yan Lan moved back to her own home from Bai Xiaolin's. While helping her unpack, Bai Xiaolin noticed that "the little thief" who had broken in previously had dismantled all of Yan Lan's pens.

Yan Lan realized the intruder was specifically targeting a pen, not just ordinary items. During their visit to Luo's Pharmaceuticals, Han Pei questioned Luo Jie's choice to partner with a smaller company like Han's. Luo Jie explained the significant 90% gross profit margin of PD1 Monoclonal Antibodies and highlighted Han's need for Luo's production and sales capabilities despite his R&D investment. Impressed, Han Pei agreed to Luo Jie's request to visit Han's production facility.

At Han's, Han Pei showcased an exhibition of his "grand blueprint" and products, but deflected Luo Jie's attempts to see the actual workshop. While Han Pei's secretary closely monitored him, Luo Jie excused himself to the restroom, where he managed to send a text message. Yan Lan then confronted Huo Yan at the fire station for standing her up.

She demanded the return of a specific pen she'd left in his car, confirming her suspicion that it was the target of the recent theft at her home. Citing their past breakup caused by Huo Yan's secret-keeping, she asserted her right to know the truth. Huo Yan, already investigating with Luo Jie, agreed to disclose everything if she promised to be "informed but not involved," a condition Yan Lan accepted.

Luo Jie, via phone to Huo Yan, expressed his suspicions about Han Pei's new drug research. Yan Lan, taking charge, reviewed the clinical trial report from the USB drive. She immediately connected it to a recent increase in superficial angioma patients at her hospital, all of whom had taken a PD1 Monoclonal Antibody drug currently in clinical trials. She recounted how Director Li at the drug testing center had refused her access to relevant information.

Enraged that a medicine could be corrupted for profit, Yan Lan vowed to bring justice and tasked Huo Yan with obtaining drug samples for her to conduct experiments. Huo Yan visited Han's Pharmaceuticals, where he learned from a cleaner that the factory was illegally discharging sewage into the river. He collected a water sample as evidence. On his way back, he encountered Zhong Yi, a former classmate of both Huo Yan and Han Pei, contemplating jumping into the river.

Zhong Yi recognized Huo Yan and revealed that Han Pei was coercing employees to falsify experimental data. Although fearful due to past bullying by Han Pei, Zhong Yi, wanting to be brave, gave Huo Yan his work permit and uniform to access the laboratory, warning him about the strict security. Using Zhong Yi's credentials and disguise, Huo Yan entered the lab but accidentally triggered an alarm.

He narrowly escaped from the security personnel but was unable to obtain any drug samples. During this time, Wang Dayin was caught by Jiang Tong playing games instead of studying. She playfully "punished" him for repeatedly confusing the Gregorian calendar date of the October Revolution with its Russian calendar name, urging him to focus on his studies. Upon hearing of Huo Yan and Luo Jie's failure to retrieve samples, Yan Lan was furious at their inefficiency.

She then directed them to obtain the samples from the drug testing center. Huo Yan and Luo Jie, recognizing her decisive insight, readily agreed. Han Pei discovered Zhong Yi's missing work permit and had him severely beaten, demanding to know who he had shared it with. Despite the assault, Zhong Yi defiantly claimed he acted alone, recalling Han Pei's abusive past and stating that his subordinates feared, rather than respected, him.

Han Pei, enraged by Zhong Yi's words, continued the beating before leaving. Following Yan Lan's suggestion, Huo Yan and Luo Jie successfully acquired drug samples from both the experimental center and the sample room at the drug testing facility. While Yan Lan began experiments with the samples on mice, Luo Jie agreed to continue his facade with Han Pei to buy time for the analysis.

Huo Yan confirmed that his prior infiltration had not raised suspicions directly on him, as Zhong Yi reported the alarm was dismissed as a false alarm. As Yan Lan's experiments progressed and Wang Dayin continued to struggle with his studies, Han Pei grew furious at his subordinates for repeatedly failing to retrieve the USB drive from Yan Lan, dismissing their explanations about her home surveillance. Shortly after, Han Pei met with Luo Jie, eager to push forward their cooperation. However, Luo Jie subtly stalled by inquiring about Han Pei's Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice, indicating this regulatory requirement as a hurdle for their partnership.

Han Pei admitted that the Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice had not yet been obtained. Luo Jie, seizing the opportunity, called Han Pei to push for the next stage of cooperation but then pivoted to renegotiate their profit-sharing ratio. Luo Jie pointed out that without the GMP certification and large-scale production experience, Han's Pharmaceuticals would rely heavily on Luo's Pharmaceuticals.

He proposed that if Han Pei agreed to concede an additional 10% of the profit to Luo's Pharmaceuticals, they would sign the contract immediately. Han Pei, after listening to a joke from Luo Jie that he found "uninteresting," ultimately accepted the revised terms. Meanwhile, Huo Yan informed Wang Dayin of the station's decision to promote him to assistant chief, with a further promotion to deputy chief upon his graduation from the Fire and Rescue Academy.

Huo Yan clarified that this decision was based solely on Wang Dayin's numerous top-ranking rescue performances, asserting it had nothing to do with external factors. Wang Dayin, however, hesitated to accept the promotion, admitting his insecurity and fear of failure, especially the possibility of Jiang Tong witnessing his struggles if he couldn't pass the academy exams. Huo Yan, recognizing Wang Dayin's underlying potential, challenged him to provide a truly convincing reason for his reluctance before dismissing him to reconsider.

To instill confidence in Wang Dayin, Chief Chen returned to Dongshan Station. He recounted two stories of profound sacrifice: one about his comrade Zheng Zhong, a 22-year-old university graduate who perished in the 1998 flood while saving a villager, and another about his old captain, Huo Qingsong, who died in a chemical plant explosion after inhaling too much toxic gas because his breathing apparatus was not yet perfect.

Chief Chen explained how modern equipment has advanced to allow shared breathing for both rescuers and victims. He then led Wang Dayin to the Honor Room, filled with mementos of fallen comrades who were like family to him. He emphasized that their collective efforts were for the trust of the people, embodied in the station's motto: "Loyal to the party, strict to the discipline. The fire we wander, for the people we care."

Chief Chen sternly criticized Wang Dayin, stating that his current efforts should not be for Jiang Tong or their personal romance, but for the trust of his teammates and the public, and to honor the heroes in the Honor Room. He challenged Wang Dayin to either fight like a man or "get lost," though he quickly called him back, urging him to reflect and not disgrace the fire service.

Inspired, Wang Dayin returned to the study room, immersing himself completely in his books, much to his teammates' surprise. Jiang Tong and Wang Dayin enjoyed a picnic, exchanging gifts they had thoughtfully acquired by selling some of their own cherished items, like Jiang Tong's electric scooter and Wang Dayin's drone. Jiang Tong shared that her father wished for her to transfer back to the fire brigade.

Wang Dayin fully supported this, suggesting that Jiang Tong, with her higher education in fire safety, would be better utilized in the brigade for fire prevention technology research and supervision work, where she could make a greater impact. He vowed to diligently pursue his work and future with her, promising to protect her unwavering spirit. Yan Lan continued her intensive experiments, even working through her holidays. As she left the lab one day, she unknowingly passed by Han Pei's operatives.

Soon after, the media exposed Han's Pharmaceuticals for using substandard materials, leading to severe formaldehyde contamination in a previous housing project. The reports highlighted conflicting quality inspection documents. Enraged by the scandal, Han Pei demanded his subordinates bring Yan Lan to him within 24 hours and inquired if any samples were missing from the drug testing center.

Yan Lan, having successfully completed her experiments and obtained conclusive results, immediately contacted Huo Yan to deliver the damning report, asserting that the evidence was solid enough to apprehend Han Pei. Huo Yan instructed her to be careful and promised to wait for her. Meanwhile, Han Pei learned that two vials were indeed missing from his drug testing center, further fueling his fury. Later that night, as Yan Lan returned home, she was drugged and abducted.

The scandal surrounding Han's Pharmaceuticals also implicated Luo's Pharmaceuticals, leading to a barrage of reporters besieging Luo Jie. He faced the press, stating that his father was occupied and he was now fully responsible for Luo's Pharmaceuticals. He refuted claims about their involvement in PD-1 drug development and bribery allegations against Director Li, urging the media not to spread rumors.

While acknowledging the confidentiality of their cooperation with Han's Pharmaceuticals, Luo Jie adamantly assured the public that Luo's Pharmaceuticals would never engage in illegal activities, upholding his father's long-standing principles. He declined to comment on the disappearances of Director Li and Han Pei. Shortly after, Huo Yan received a call from Yan Lan's phone, but it was Han Pei. Yan Lan briefly managed to interject, telling Huo Yan not to worry about her and to protect himself.

Han Pei taunted Huo Yan, confirming Yan Lan was in his custody and mocking Huo Yan for his pursuit of justice and personal affections. Huo Yan warned Han Pei against harming Yan Lan, but Han Pei abruptly ended the call. Huo Yan promptly reported Yan Lan's kidnapping to the police. Police quickly surrounded Han Pei's clubhouse, but he was nowhere to be found.

Han Pei then sent Huo Yan a video message, gloating about his escape and revealing that the clubhouse, his "most satisfying work," contained a "secret passage." He challenged Huo Yan to find this hidden route to reach him and Yan Lan. Separately, Han Pei contacted Luo Jie, who was still unaware of Yan Lan's abduction, requesting him to prepare fireworks.

Han Pei cryptically added that Yan Lan had already completed a second task for him, which immediately made Luo Jie realize Yan Lan was captive. Furious, Luo Jie threatened Han Pei if Yan Lan was harmed, but Han Pei assured him of her safety as long as Huo Yan did not interfere. Luo Jie and Huo Yan met to exchange their information. Luo Jie expressed his suspicion that Han Pei might be targeting him. They decided to split up to pursue Han Pei and rescue Yan Lan, agreeing to stay in constant communication and coordinate with the police.

Huo Yan found himself outside Han's pharmaceutical factory, secretly taking photographs when Han Pei's men ambushed him, beating him severely. On the phone, Han Pei mocked Huo Yan, asking if he now understood the consequences of interfering in others' business. He warned Huo Yan that if he dared to contact the police, he would never see Yan Lan again. Distantly, Huo Yan could hear Yan Lan's faint pleas through the walkie-talkie, urging him to run and stating her fear.

Suddenly, he heard a child's voice through the walkie-talkie, crying for help and expressing fear of being lost. A childhood memory flashed through Huo Yan's mind: his own voice reassuring a frightened child, promising protection. This memory brought him back to reality. Huo Yan returned to Southeast Hospital, where Bai Xiaolin and Ji Yuan were on the night shift.

They rushed to treat his head injury, which Bai Xiaolin identified as inflicted, and urged him to get a CT scan for possible intracranial congestion. Huo Yan, however, insisted on merely having his wounds bandaged to stop the bleeding, stating he only wanted to rest before resuming his search for Yan Lan, planning the CT scan for the next morning.

Concerned, Bai Xiaolin made sure he lay down to rest, emphasizing that he must inform them if he felt any discomfort. The following day, Han Pei called Huo Yan, instructing him to go alone to a deserted chemical factory, an address he provided. When Huo Yan arrived, Yan Lan, still bound, urged him to leave, shouting that Han Pei's real target was him and that he was insane.

Ignoring her pleas, Huo Yan confronted Han Pei, who welcomed him, stating he had been waiting. Han Pei demanded Huo Yan sit down, then began a philosophical discourse about "survival of the fittest," comparing it to people eating steak without considering the cow's feelings. Yan Lan tried to warn Huo Yan that Han Pei was spouting nonsense and had gone insane, but Han Pei silenced her. Huo Yan urged Han Pei to stop his madness.

Han Pei revealed that the chemical factory was his father's, and the fire years ago, which led to Huo Yan's father becoming a hero, had caused his own father's imprisonment and their family's disgrace. He recalled his childhood, when his father promised him a Ferris wheel ride if he topped his class after being released from prison. Han Pei meticulously planned to cheat with the top student, but Huo Yan, in his righteousness, intercepted the cheating materials.

This act, Han Pei claimed, changed his destiny and left his father deeply disappointed and angry, refusing to even look at him. Huo Yan countered that Han Pei's father was responsible for the fire, which had killed many innocent people, including Huo Yan's own father. Han Pei retorted that Huo Yan was the least qualified to speak of responsibility, arguing that without his father, many in the factory would have no livelihood.

He further ranted about his own apartment projects, which were criticized for formaldehyde issues, claiming he built them to prove his worth to his father. Huo Yan tried to reason with Han Pei, offering himself as a hostage in exchange for Yan Lan. Han Pei refused, revealing that he hated Huo Yan's "hypocrisy" and intended to expose it by forcing Huo Yan to choose between his beloved Yan Lan and several children he had also abducted.

Yan Lan immediately urged Huo Yan to save the children. At this critical moment, Luo Jie appeared, having already alerted the police and fire station. Han Pei expressed surprise at his presence, asking why he wasn't lighting fireworks as per their supposed plan, and then tried to provoke him, calling him weak and a failure in love and business. Luo Jie calmly stated that only the bravest knew how to let go.

With the firefighters' arrival imminent, Luo Jie told Huo Yan to save Yan Lan while he would save the children. Han Pei, seeing his plan disrupted, suddenly cut the rope suspending the children and pushed Yan Lan, who had managed to free her hands earlier, off the ledge. Huo Yan lunged and caught Yan Lan, pulling her up, while Luo Jie bravely grabbed the falling children.

As Huo Yan struggled to save Yan Lan, Han Pei attacked him with a chair and then a stick. After securing Yan Lan, Huo Yan fought back, eventually knocking Han Pei unconscious. Just as everyone thought the danger was over, Han Pei suddenly revived, rushed at Huo Yan, and dragged him off the ledge. Han Pei died instantly from the fall, but Huo Yan was left in a coma. Yan Lan immediately performed CPR on Huo Yan.

With the help of doctors, Huo Yan's heartbeat was restored, though he remained unconscious. Luo Jie, also injured, received first aid from Liu Xuan. Liu Xuan, concerned for his well-being, asked who he would save if she and Yan Lan were both in danger. Luo Jie replied that Yan Lan was like family, but Liu Xuan was "his person." Later, Chief Chen visited the unconscious Huo Yan.

He spoke to Huo Yan about his father, expressing how much he wanted Huo Yan to wake up. The police informed everyone that all evidence against Han Pei's group had been gathered, and they would be prosecuted. It was also revealed that Luo Jie and Huo Yan's conflict had been a performance to gain Han Pei's trust and gather evidence, much to the surprise and amusement of the Dongshan Station firefighters.

Yan Lan and Sister Xian took turns caring for Huo Yan. When left alone, Yan Lan confessed her deep feelings for Huo Yan, admitting she had liked him since hearing his voice through the walkie-talkie during the first tunnel fire incident. She recounted how he always made her feel safe, how she cherished his diligent work and his smiles, and how her affection for him had never wavered, even during their disagreements.

She vowed that from now on, while he protected the world, she would protect him. As Yan Lan spoke, Huo Yan's fingers twitched slightly. He eventually opened his eyes. Doctors quickly came to check on him. Yan Lan, holding his hand, stared at him anxiously. Huo Yan looked at her, then, confused, asked, "Who are you?"

Huo Yan finally regained consciousness after a long coma but pretended not to recognize Yan Lan, asking her, "Who are you?" Yan Lan, distressed, reminded him, "I'm Big Head! It's the nickname you gave me. How can you forget it? I'm your girlfriend!" Huo Yan, however, feigned ignorance, telling the doctor that he didn't know her, while secretly winking at Ji Yuan and Sister Xian, revealing his act.

He then challenged Yan Lan, asking for memorable stories between them that might help him regain his "lost" memory. Yan Lan, having already suspected his act, recounted embarrassing incidents, such as when Huo Yan hid in the men's restroom to avoid a needle during a hospital check-up and later fainted. When she mentioned him faking a headache at work, Huo Yan's act was exposed. Sister Xian playfully pinched him, asking when he really woke up.

Huo Yan admitted, "I woke up as you spoke. I was too tired to open my eyes, so I just listened more to what you said, the sweet talk." Ji Yuan and Sister Xian, deeming the moment too intimate, left the room. Yan Lan chided him for making her worry, then fetched him water and puffed on it for him when he complained it was hot.

Huo Yan told her, "From now on, you are the only one who can break a cup" in their home, and tasted the water, calling it "Sweet." Huo Yan then revealed the true depth of their connection, telling Yan Lan that during his most desperate moments in childhood, he would often hear a little girl's voice through his toy walkie-talkie. Yan Lan realized, "So the little boy from the intercom was you?"

Huo Yan confirmed, recalling how her descriptions when she mistakenly thought he was Wu Zheng resonated with his own feelings, and how her voice gave him the "faith and motive" to rush to the hospital when she was abducted by Han Pei. He told her not to doubt her worth, asserting, "I'm the one who saved the whole universe to deserve you."

He emphasized that even before they met, she had been his source of strength and hope in his darkest hours. He explained that although he lost his father young and followed his footsteps to become a firefighter, Han Pei's cynicism made him question his choices. Meeting Yan Lan, "the most optimistic, pristine, and sincere girl" he had ever met, taught him how to love and reaffirmed his path.

He declared that even if given countless chances, he would still choose this life, as the son of Huo Qingsong and Sister Xian, without hesitation. Yan Lan worried about him speaking so much after just waking up, but Huo Yan teasingly asked for a reward, leading to her kissing him. She playfully warned him, "Deceive me again, and I'll bite you," to which he offered his arm.

Wu, now working as a fire protection supervisor and part-time chauffeur in a company, made his first return to Dongshan Station since retirement to visit his comrades. He proudly shared his success and encouraged his former colleagues to take care of themselves, assuring them of a better future. Amidst their reunion, Wang Dayin's exam results for the China Fire and Rescue Academy were released. Wang Dayin, feigning nervousness, asked someone else to check his phone.

One of the firefighters, Li Yanliang, pranked him by announcing that he had failed, causing Wang Dayin to despair and declare he would give up on the academy. However, Wu then joyfully announced that Wang Dayin had been matriculated, which made Wang Dayin realize he had been fooled. Just then, Huo Yan arrived and was warmly welcomed by Wu. Upon hearing Wang Dayin's good news, Huo Yan immediately rallied everyone for a celebration in the canteen.

During the celebration, Jiang Tong presented Wang Dayin with a "Long-Distance Relationship Agreement." Wang Dayin read out some of the terms, which included mutual honesty and trust, proactive communication through various means, public declaration of their relationship, and pre-reporting attendance at mixed-gender events. After signing, he proudly declared, "I hereby announce Jiang Tong is my bride-to-be." As Wang Dayin prepared to cut the cake, he found no knife or forks.

A comrade then revealed, "Well this cake is not for eating," and everyone promptly pushed Wang Dayin's face into it. Wang Dayin took it in stride, remarking that he knew this would happen. Wu then gave Wang Dayin a gift—an old photo, jesting that it was taken from a good angle, otherwise Wang Dayin wouldn't have looked so handsome. Wang Dayin cherished the photo, saying, "I'm keeping it."

At home, Luo Jie, still recovering from his injuries, felt vindicated by the news about Han Pei, telling his father, "Dad, have you seen the news about Han Pei? What do you think? I told you before the guy can not be trusted. And you didn't believe me." His father calmly revealed that he had known about Han Pei's dubious character long before Luo Jie presented his due diligence report.

He explained that the due diligence company's boss was an old acquaintance of over ten years, and despite Han Pei's instructions, they never provided false information to him. Luo Jie's father, a seasoned businessman, confessed that while his initial impression of Han Pei was good, he quickly discerned his "shady tricks." He emphasized that "we drug producers must be benevolent," and their family would never be involved in anything that could harm patients, regardless of profit.

He admitted to keeping Luo Jie in the dark to challenge him, forcing him to develop the "cunning" and "strategic" aspects of his personality in dealing with others. He expressed satisfaction with Luo Jie's recent performance and tasked him with building a young and creative R&D team for Luo's Pharmaceuticals to address current business difficulties. He reminded Luo Jie to always lead with a "benevolent heart."

Moved by his parents' care, Luo Jie confessed that he initially joined the fire department for Yan Lan and later stayed for his comrades, always prioritizing others but neglecting his own family. He promised, "Rest assured now, I'll be here for you guys from now on." The Dongshan Station comrades pooled their money and bought Wang Dayin an e-bike as a birthday gift.

Huo Yan, acknowledging Wang Dayin's achievements—joining Dongshan Station six years ago, now accepted into the Fire and Rescue Academy, and having an official girlfriend—declared it a day to be celebrated. Jiang Tong then unilaterally announced that it would henceforth be Wang Dayin's birthday, promising to spend every future birthday with him. Though initially a little disgruntled about the e-bike being the collective gift, Wang Dayin was soon surprised again.

Jiang Tong blindfolded him and led him to another area of the station where several children, as well as the Captain and Instructor, waited. The children sang a song for him, which deeply moved Wang Dayin, as he saw in them a resemblance to his deceased sister, Xiao Pei. Later, at an awards ceremony for Dongshan Station and the hospital, Dean Zhang presented an honor for Yan Lan's paper, which highlighted the unity and cooperation between firefighters and medical personnel.

Huo Yan and Yan Lan were called to receive the award as representatives. The crowd immediately began chanting for them to get married. Despite not having a ring, Huo Yan was spurred to propose. He made a heartfelt confession to Yan Lan, acknowledging that he often forgot himself while trying to protect many, but she reminded him of his own worth. He stated, "In this lifetime, there are so many people I want to protect. Yet I left myself out.

Thankfully, you're here, reminding me of myself, so I can go ahead without the need of looking back. In the future, I will keep you deep in my heart. I hope you can be by my side in the coming days." He then dramatically tore a button from his shirt, presenting it as a makeshift ring, and said, "All my life, I have only kneeled in two places. One is at the scene of a fire.

Two, is right here, right now, the scene these onlookers are watching. Marry me!" Yan Lan happily accepted. When the crowd demanded a kiss, Huo Yan demurred, saying they would save it for home. Yan Lan playfully retorted that she still needed to sew his button, to which he agreed to "save it to after that."

Dean Zhang concluded the ceremony by expressing hope for continued close cooperation between 120 and 119 to protect the lives and property of the people. Acting on his father's instructions to establish a young, creative R&D team for Luo's Pharmaceuticals, Luo Jie approached Yan Lan, inviting her to a company meeting regarding a new drug development project, which was also a research topic at her Southeast Hospital.

Yan Lan readily agreed, with Huo Yan's encouragement, who told her, "Working on scientific research is your dream. We come down firm to earth and also strive for the dreams we hold." Luo Jie then quickly left after responding to playful teasing from Liu Xuan. Huo Yan and Yan Lan later went to a studio to try on wedding gowns and take wedding photos. Huo Yan admired Yan Lan, even musing about their future baby's attire.

Yan Lan chose a wedding gown that perfectly suited her, making Huo Yan declare, "The wife calls the shots in our house." Just then, their friends from Dongshan Station and the hospital burst in, insisting on joining the photoshoot, emphasizing that they were all family. As everyone gathered and posed happily in front of a fire truck prop, a sudden alert blared over the walkie-talkie: "Fire on Lion Hill Road. Send the heavy rescue truck.

Accident on Lion Hill Road with possible injuries. Send ambulances." Without a second thought, the joyous atmosphere instantly evaporated as all the firefighters and medical personnel, including Huo Yan and Yan Lan, abandoned the photoshoot and rushed to the scene. Luo Jie, now acting as Chief Luo, and Huo Yan quickly confirmed their response. Despite frequently sacrificing their personal lives for their duties, firefighters like Huo Yan and medical personnel like Yan Lan never complain.

As essential guardians of public safety, they repeatedly embark on missions to save lives and protect people's property. The blue of their "flame blue" uniforms signifies not merely the color of fire but the fervent, immeasurable heart of every firefighter dedicated to protecting the people.