Rebirth For You Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Rebirth For You Synopsis
Princess Jiang Baoning of Jianan, who grew up within the deep palace walls, lived a carefree life but clearly understood that there was no true freedom inside the palace. Unwilling to become a puppet controlled by palace intrigues, she relied on her intelligence and wit to resist a fate of being used as a pawn in power struggles. Li Qian, once a guard of the imperial army, sought higher rank within the court in order to uncover the truth behind an old mystery. When these two people with starkly different personalities cross paths, they gradually develop feelings for each other. Together, they strive to change their destinies, hoping to break through the barriers of status and spend a lifetime with the one they love.
Rebirth For You Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Commandery Princess Jia’nan, Jiang Baoning, grew up in the deep palace and refused to be a puppet, determined to resist becoming a tool in palace struggles. She wanted to participate in this year's Machinist Contest outside the palace, a chance to make up for being disqualified last year after accidentally breaking a mechanism door before the competition even began. However, after her previous escapade, palace security was tightened, making it difficult for her to leave.
Undeterred, Jiang Baoning worked on her secret weapon and managed to sneak out of the palace using her cousin A-Lü's pass, checking into an inn. She resolved that if she were to marry the Emperor, participating in such contests would become even harder. Meanwhile, Li Qian was also headed to the contest, seeking "The Book of Supreme Weapons," the grand prize, believing it held clues about his late mother.
On his way, he discovered a thief attempting to sell a stolen contest pass. Just as he tracked down the thief, he found Jiang Baoning trying to purchase the very same pass. Li Qian intervened, explaining that the pass had been stolen from him, but Jiang Baoning dismissed his claim, thinking he was trying to snatch her purchase. In the ensuing struggle, the wooden pass broke into two halves.
The thief took the opportunity to flee, but Li Qian swiftly pursued and apprehended him. Jiang Baoning arrived at the Mechanism Pavilion with her half-pass, only to be told by the Master that an incomplete pass disqualified her. Shortly after, Li Qian, introducing himself as Zhang Qian, brought the apprehended thief to the Pavilion. The Master thanked Li Qian for his help.
Li Qian then explained that he had lost his own pass on his journey to the capital for the contest and requested a chance to participate. Jiang Baoning, feeling the rules were unfair as she possessed a part of the pass while he had none, protested. To settle the matter, the Master proposed a challenge for both: they had to throw an egg from the rooftop without breaking it.
Jiang Baoning confidently deployed her ingenious parachute-like mechanism, allowing her egg to land safely. Li Qian, showcasing his agile footwork, descended from the roof alongside his egg, catching it just before it hit the ground. Although Jiang Baoning accused him of merely fooling the Master, their methods were deemed valid, and both were granted entry to the Machinist Contest. Later, Jiang Baoning went to a restaurant, only to discover she had forgotten her money.
The waiter was hesitant to serve her, but Zhao Xiao, the Son of Marquis Jinghai, who had observed Jiang Baoning's earlier struggle for the pass, chivalrously paid for her meal and invited her to dine with him. Fearing her true identity might be exposed, Jiang Baoning introduced herself with a false name, Jiang Xian. During their meal, she spotted the Emperor's maid, visibly pregnant, outside the restaurant.
Curious about this unexpected sight, Jiang Baoning abruptly excused herself, thanking Zhao Xiao for the meal, and followed the maid. However, she soon encountered her cousin A-Lü, and fearing he would discover her escape and stolen pass, she quickly abandoned her investigation and returned to the palace. The next day, at the Machinist Contest, Jiang Baoning once again encountered Zhao Xiao and then Li Qian.
She immediately mocked Li Qian, suggesting he had used "petty tricks" to gain entry and wouldn't even pass the first round. Li Qian simply told her to "wait and see." The Master announced "The Book of Supreme Weapons" as the ultimate prize, clarifying that only the final winner could open it. She explained that entries would be judged on "novelty, craftsmanship, and completeness," with the top four advancing.
As contestants presented their creations, Jiang Baoning was particularly impressed by a bionic wooden fish that swam and turned just like a real fish. Realizing its tail mechanism mimicked a live fish's movement, she was inspired to modify her own clever kite, adding a switch to control its direction. Her enhanced kite was praised, and ultimately, the bionic wooden fish, the clever kite, a clairvoyance device, and a unicycle secured the top four spots, advancing to the next round.
After the first round, Li Qian’s subordinate, Wei Shu, asked if he had seen "The Book of Supreme Weapons." Li Qian explained that his bionic wooden fish was a replica of a toy his late mother had made for him. He affirmed that he hadn't seen the book but suspected the Master of the Mechanism Pavilion, by possessing such a prestigious item, might hold clues to past events related to his mother.
Li Qian sent Wei Shu back, stating he needed to investigate further. Jiang Baoning, observing Li Qian, suspected he was returning to the Mechanism Pavilion to steal exam questions. She followed him into the backyard and confronted him, accusing him of being unscrupulous. Just then, the Master and others passed by, forcing Li Qian and Jiang Baoning to hide. After the danger passed, Li Qian retorted that she too was trespassing and would be disqualified if she reported him.
He then revealed his true motive: curiosity about the Master's legendary collection of self-made gadgets. Intrigued, Jiang Baoning, despite her initial skepticism, joined him. Inside the Master's room, they marveled at many treasures. Jiang Baoning then spotted rice paper from the Qinzheng Hall. She blurted out "Qinzheng Hall," then quickly covered by claiming her family produced such imperial paper, but privately wondered why the Emperor's paper was found in the Mechanism Pavilion.
The second round of the Machinist Contest involved cracking mechanisms within a secret chamber; contestants had two hours to escape or be eliminated. Inside, Jiang Baoning immediately encountered Li Qian, stating they should each rely on their own abilities. She soon found what she thought was a mechanism but triggered a trap instead, getting entangled in a rope net. Li Qian, attempting to stop her, also fell into the trap.
Trapped together, Jiang Baoning complained about their unfortunate encounters, while Li Qian pointed out a chessboard on the wall. Jiang Baoning recognized it as "The Exquisite Endgame" and, being skilled in it, devised a solution. With her knowledge and Li Qian's agility, they worked together, swinging across to place the correct pieces, and successfully cracked the puzzle. After solving the first mechanism, Zhao Xiao joined Jiang Baoning and Li Qian.
They learned that the fourth contestant had already been eliminated by falling into a fake trap and getting locked in an empty room. While investigating, Zhao Xiao accidentally triggered another trap, causing a section of the floor to collapse. Li Qian quickly reacted, saving Jiang Baoning from falling. A square balancing platform then appeared, requiring all three to maintain their balance to keep a metal ball centered.
Working as a team, they successfully navigated the challenge, found the exit, and escaped the secret chamber. The Master congratulated them on advancing to the final round. Zhao Xiao proposed celebrating their success, but Li Qian politely declined, stating he had other matters to attend to, which left Jiang Baoning to remark that he "changes faster than the weather."
For the final round, the three remaining contestants were tasked with finding a waterproof material in the forest within one day and returning it to the Mechanism Pavilion; the first to do so would be crowned the winner. Upon entering the forest, Jiang Baoning quickly discovered water pooling within pine rosin without leaking, immediately recognizing it as the waterproof material she needed. Convinced she would win, she prepared to return.
When Li Qian approached and inquired about her findings, she playfully refused to tell him and hastily walked away, only to fall into a deep pit. Li Qian managed to grab her hand, but as he tried to pull her up, they both plunged deeper into the hole. The pit was too deep and the stone walls too slippery for Li Qian to use his light-body skills. Trapped, they began to call for help.
Fortunately, Zhao Xiao soon discovered their predicament and rushed back to the Mechanism Pavilion to summon a rescue party. While waiting in the dark pit, Li Qian noted, with a hint of amusement, that Jiang Baoning was "truly carefree" for managing to fall asleep in such a situation.
Episode 2 Recap
Jiang Baoning, trapped in a cave, awoke to find Li Qian attempting to remove an insect from her shoulder. Mistaking his intentions, she used her self-made blinding incense as a defense, but accidentally incapacitated herself instead. Shortly after, Zhao Xiao arrived with rescuers from the Mechanism Pavilion. Observing Jiang Baoning's condition, Zhao Xiao voluntarily withdrew from the competition to escort her down the mountain. Meanwhile, Li Qian decided to continue his search for waterproof material.
Upon returning to the Mechanism Pavilion with pine resin, Li Qian was informed by the Master that Jiang Baoning had already presented her pine resin upon leaving, making her the ultimate winner of the competition. Learning that The Book of Supreme Weapons, the grand prize, was now in her possession, Li Qian decided he must find her. Elsewhere, Jiang Baoning and Zhao Xiao were celebrating her victory over a meal. Zhao Xiao seized the opportunity to request her assistance.
He revealed that he had entered the competition specifically to find someone who could address a critical flaw in the Nanmin Navy's sailboats. His father, the Governor-General of Nanmin, oversaw a fleet whose sailboats often became uncontrollable during heavy storms, leading to catastrophic losses of ships and lives. Jiang Baoning agreed to lend her expertise. Li Qian received a letter from his father, detailing an invitation to the Empress Dowager's birthday celebration.
His father instructed him to ensure the family's gift was delivered to the capital and that Li Qian himself must visit the Empress Dowager before the festivities. His subordinate, Wei Shu, reported that Jiang Baoning had checked out of her inn and her whereabouts were unknown. Li Qian, noting he still had her belongings, instructed Wei Shu to continue searching, convinced she was still in the capital and that The Book of Supreme Weapons was their only lead.
Concurrently, Jiang Baoning was located by her cousin, Jiang Lyu, the Archduke's son, who, after chastising her for her escapade, secretly brought her back to the palace. Jiang Baoning inquired about a gilding ball she made, only for Jiang Lyu to offer to replace it with better ones, a suggestion she politely refused. The next morning, Emperor Zhao Yi visited Jiang Baoning, claiming he missed her.
He saw Zhao Xiao's sailboat in her possession, accidentally broke it, and advised her to only use items befitting her royal status. Later, he summoned her to the Imperial Garden lake, presenting her with a phoenix-patterned bracelet, a clear symbol of his desire to make her his empress. Jiang Baoning subtly rejected his advances. Feigning a slip, Zhao Yi intentionally fell into the lake.
When the Grand Empress Dowager came to check on his feigned illness, Zhao Yi dramatically declared his unwavering love for Jiang Baoning and his refusal to marry anyone else. Cornered and unwilling to defy her grandmother in public, Jiang Baoning reluctantly accepted the imperial marriage decree, much to Zhao Yi's delight. To prevent Empress Dowager Cao from objecting, Zhao Yi sought and received the Grand Empress Dowager's explicit endorsement of the union.
During the next morning's court session, Lord Jian proposed a large-scale project to dig canals and connect the northern and southern waterways. Archduke Jiang Zhenyuan opposed the idea, arguing that with ongoing conflicts with Yongqing State, such an endeavor would exhaust the populace and deplete the treasury, potentially causing unrest.
While Emperor Zhao Yi initially agreed with Jiang Zhenyuan, Empress Dowager Cao, who held significant sway over the court, countered by advocating for the canal project, asserting it would benefit the people and win public support. The Emperor, under her influence, conceded to her stance. Jiang Baoning discovered that The Book of Supreme Weapons she received was fake, merely a depiction of a weapon from the Lu Book.
She also recognized the stationery used by the Mechanism Pavilion Master as coming from Qinzheng Hall, leading her to suspect Emperor Zhao Yi's involvement in the competition. Connecting this to the mysterious case of a pregnant palace maid, she decided to confront Zhao Yi. He admitted to organizing the competition solely to collect interesting gadgets for her, hoping to surprise her. Jiang Baoning then pressed him about the genuine Book of Supreme Weapons.
Zhao Yi claimed he had only ever seen it in the late emperor's collection. She then inquired about Fang Yiru, a maid who used to serve him. Zhao Yi, lying, stated that Fang Yiru had accidentally fallen from a ladder and died the same night. This only deepened Jiang Baoning's suspicion that the maid's child was, in fact, the Emperor's. She pondered that if Zhao Yi was truly so unscrupulous, her grandmother would never force her into such a marriage.
Concurrently, Li Qian entered the palace to pay his respects to the Empress Dowager. As he passed through, he observed a herald entering without the usual security check, which piqued his suspicion. Later, during his audience with the Empress Dowager, the same herald, who was in fact an assassin disguised as a messenger, attempted to stab her while delivering a false report of victory against Yongqing. Li Qian, having already noticed the herald's ill-fitting uniform and suspicious belt, was prepared.
He quickly disarmed and captured the assassin, revealing that he had anticipated foul play and had his subordinate, Wei Shu, identify and apprehend the assassin's palace accomplice. Empress Dowager Cao, immensely impressed by Li Qian's quick thinking and bravery, confirmed the assassin was indeed from Yongqing and unrelated to the Emperor. In light of the recent assassination attempt, palace security was significantly heightened. Jiang Baoning learned from Lord Cheng’en Cao Xuan that Li Qian had saved the Empress Dowager.
She observed her friend, Bai Su, showing interest in Cao Xuan. Jiang Baoning subtly warned Bai Su that Cao Xuan, as Empress Dowager Cao's nephew, represented an "external relative," whose status could become precarious if the Emperor eventually gained full control, potentially leading to the Cao family's downfall. Empress Dowager Cao, confirming that the assassin was from Yongqing State and not linked to the Emperor, was greatly impressed by Li Qian's valor.
To secure the support of the powerful Li family against the increasingly assertive Emperor, she issued an edict promoting Li Qian to a Third-Rank Armed Guard of the Imperial Guards. Seeing the palace guards redirected due to the assassination, Jiang Baoning recognized this as an opportune moment. She quickly changed into a uniform for an assistant physician and snuck into the medical record room.
Her search for Fang Yiru's records yielded nothing, but she found an entry for a maid named Xiao Rongniang, who had been prescribed abortion prevention medicine six months prior. Knowing that no royal family member had been pregnant during that period and that such a prescription required imperial command, Jiang Baoning deduced that someone had falsely used Xiao Rongniang's name. She realized finding Xiao Rongniang was crucial to uncovering the truth.
Just as she was about to leave the medical record room, she encountered Li Qian, who was there to have his wound dressed after the scuffle with the assassin. Mistaking Jiang Baoning for an actual assistant, he asked her to help him with his dressing. While applying the medicine, Jiang Baoning's veil accidentally fell, revealing her true face to Li Qian. Recognizing her, Li Qian immediately pursued, but Jiang Baoning, familiar with the palace's intricate pathways, easily evaded him.
Shortly after, she met her cousin, Jiang Lyu, who had brought her favorite food. She then enlisted his help to locate Xiao Rongniang outside the palace. Li Qian, still processing her identity, recounted his encounter with "the girl" to his subordinate, noting she was disguised as an assistant physician. He expressed regret at not stopping her but was confident he would meet her again now that he was an Imperial Guard.
Later, while Jiang Baoning was playing with a friend, Li Qian spotted her. He confronted her, using the name "Jiang Xian," and expressed his disbelief that she was Commandery Princess Jia’nan, as he had checked the palace records for a maid by that name and found none. He then revealed his true identity as Li Qian, son of the Governor-General of Bingzhou, explaining that "Zhang Qian" was an alias used for convenience during the competition.
He pressed her about The Book of Supreme Weapons, but Jiang Baoning's maid interrupted, stating that Jiang Lyu was looking for her urgently, giving Jiang Baoning an excuse to leave. As Li Qian left the palace later, he noticed a disguised Jiang Baoning in a carriage. Intrigued, he followed her to an embroidery workshop.
Inside, Jiang Baoning and Jiang Lyu, feigning the need to repair a "peacock feather gold thread cape" (a gift from the Grand Empress Dowager), asked for a specific embroiderer. The shopkeeper recommended Xiao Rongniang, who used to work in Funing Hall, confirming Jiang Baoning's suspicion that Xiao Rongniang was indeed there. Upon seeing Xiao Rongniang, Jiang Baoning discreetly confirmed she was not pregnant, thus verifying that someone had fraudulently obtained abortion prevention medicine under Xiao Rongniang's name.
Li Qian overheard this conversation. Although he did not expose Jiang Baoning's identity as the princess, her actions in disguise and her inquiries left him deeply puzzled about her true intentions, resolving to question her directly.
Episode 3 Recap
Jiang Baoning’s friend, Bai Su, discovered her in disguise and questioned her whereabouts. Baoning initially claimed she had merely sneaked out to an event outside the palace, but Bai Su saw through her lie, remarking on Baoning’s secretive behavior lately. Pressed by her close friend, Baoning finally revealed the matter of the Funing Hall prescription record. She explained that she had seen Maid Fang Yiru, who was officially declared dead, alive outside the palace.
This led Baoning to investigate the Imperial Hospital, where she found a prescription for “finest abortion prevention medicine” under the name Xiao Rongniang. Her investigation revealed that Xiao Rongniang was not pregnant and had left the palace six months prior. Baoning concluded that Emperor Zhao Yi had used Xiao Rongniang's name for Fang Yiru to obtain the medicine, then faked Fang Yiru's death to secretly move her out of the palace to hide her pregnancy.
Baoning felt she needed to see Fang Yiru herself to confirm this. Bai Su tried to reassure her, explaining that even if Zhao Yi had a secret child, neither Empress Dowager Cao nor the Court of the Imperial Clan would recognize it, so the child would pose no threat to Baoning as a future Empress. However, Baoning adamantly refused to marry Zhao Yi. Despite knowing him since childhood, she felt suffocated by his possessiveness and the lack of freedom.
She believed that if the Grand Empress Dowager, who favored the marriage because she thought Zhao Yi truly loved Baoning, knew about Zhao Yi’s secret child, she would call off the engagement. Bai Su, while feeling resigned to her own fate, promised to help Baoning find happiness, urging her to burn the copied prescription record to avoid discovery, and keep the information to herself.
Meanwhile, Young Master Zhao Xiao was searching for a lost opal bead in the palace when he unexpectedly encountered Li Qian. The two men, having previously met under assumed names during the Machinist Contest, introduced themselves formally, with Zhao Xiao learning that “Zhang Qian” was actually Li Qian. Zhao Xiao invited Li Qian to share drinks after his duty, and Li Qian extended an open invitation to his residence in Sanli Lane.
In her chambers, Empress Dowager Cao, while being attended, lamented her aging appearance. Her senior attendant comforted her, attributing her worries to state affairs. Empress Dowager Cao expressed frustration that court officials were using natural disasters as an excuse to pressure her into returning power to the Emperor. At this moment, an eunuch introduced Song Xianyi, a maid Empress Dowager Cao intended to place as her spy by Zhao Yi's side.
Song Xianyi, despite admitting her frail health made her unsuitable to bear royal children, pledged loyalty to Empress Dowager Cao and promised to serve the Emperor well. Empress Dowager Cao emphasized the importance of discretion in the palace, and then ordered Song Xianyi to the Funing Hall. Later, Zhao Xiao was still searching for his bead when he again ran into Jiang Baoning.
When Baoning asked what he was looking for, he described the shiny and dazzling opal bead that was a precious heirloom from his late mother. Baoning immediately surmised that a crow had taken it, as they were known to collect shiny objects. She led Zhao Xiao to a crow’s nest high in a tree, asking him to give her a boost.
As she reached for the nest, she lost her footing and fell, but Li Qian, who happened to be nearby, swiftly caught her, saving her from injury. Baoning successfully retrieved the bead for Zhao Xiao, who expressed his gratitude. As Baoning was called away to the Shoukang Palace, she told Zhao Xiao he could find her at the Three Abodes of the East whenever he came to the palace again. Zhao Xiao and Li Qian commented on Baoning's intriguing personality.
Upon arriving at the Grand Empress Dowager’s palace, Jiang Baoning found Emperor Zhao Yi there. Zhao Yi complained that Empress Dowager Cao had forced Song Xianyi upon him, but swore his heart belonged only to Baoning. The Grand Empress Dowager seemed pleased with Zhao Yi’s apparent devotion, but Baoning remained unimpressed, even rejecting Zhao Yi's invitation to view his collection of Luban Locks. On her way back to her chambers, Jiang Baoning encountered Li Qian.
Li Qian, using the pretense of a damaged peacock feather gold thread cape, subtly asked Baoning to recommend an embroidery shop. Understanding his true intention, Baoning offered to meet him outside the palace the following day at Qingshi Lane. Just then, Zhao Yi arrived and questioned Li Qian, a new Imperial Guard. Baoning, maintaining her cover, claimed not to know Li Qian, stating she only knew he was the guard who saved Empress Dowager Cao.
Li Qian then excused himself to continue his patrol. The next day, Baoning met Li Qian outside the palace. She directly asked him to state his true request, to which Li Qian admitted he wanted The Book of Supreme Weapons. Baoning informed him that the version from the Machinist Contest was a fake, but she could obtain the real one.
When Li Qian guessed it was hidden within the palace, Baoning proposed a trade: if he could find Fang Yiru’s whereabouts and confirm if she was alive, she would give him the genuine Book of Supreme Weapons. Li Qian readily agreed. That evening, while playing cards with the Grand Empress Dowager, Baoning subtly inquired about the late emperor’s Book of Supreme Weapons.
The Grand Empress Dowager recalled that Empress Dowager Cao had obtained the map and presented it to the late emperor, a move that helped her solidify her position in the harem. Meanwhile, Bai Su's mother tried to arrange a marriage for her daughter with Marquis Jin’an’s son, Cai Yuan, but Bai Su simply stated that her parents could decide her fate. Li Qian soon located Fang Yiru’s residence and met with Baoning.
After they had a meal, an informant confirmed that Fang Yiru was indeed living there, visibly pregnant by about five or six months, and the house was heavily guarded by four protectors and two maids to prevent any infiltration. Baoning insisted on seeing Fang Yiru with her own eyes. When they arrived outside the house, they found no obvious activity.
Baoning wanted to enter for a closer look, but Li Qian stopped her, pointing out that the situation clearly indicated Zhao Yi’s involvement and questioning why Baoning would involve herself in such a risky matter. Baoning feigned distress, claiming that as childhood sweethearts, Zhao Yi had promised to be devoted to her, and she couldn't accept his betrayal and the impending marriage unless she saw the proof with her own eyes.
Li Qian, concerned about the potential repercussions for his family, still cautioned her that the matter was too serious and far-reaching to act recklessly. Seeing that Li Qian was hesitant, Baoning decided to take matters into her own hands. She lit a small bundle of grass and threw it into Fang Yiru's courtyard, successfully forcing Fang Yiru and the other residents out of the house to extinguish the fire.
Baoning watched from a distance, confirming that Fang Yiru was indeed pregnant. After Li Qian escorted Jiang Baoning back to the palace, Baoning reiterated her promise to find The Book of Supreme Weapons for him, explaining that she had learned from the Grand Empress Dowager that Empress Dowager Cao held the real map and that she would find a way to approach her.
Shortly after, the Grand Empress Dowager urgently summoned Baoning and Empress Dowager Cao to discuss the Emperor’s marriage to Baoning. Empress Dowager Cao attempted to delay the proceedings, citing Zhao Yi's lingering illness and her own busy schedule with state affairs, then suggested waiting until her upcoming birthday celebration. However, the Grand Empress Dowager was resolute, asserting her authority and accusing Empress Dowager Cao of having ulterior motives for the delay.
Zhao Yi intervened, proposing that the betrothal edict be announced on Baoning's birthday in three days, turning it into a double celebration. Empress Dowager Cao objected, stating that Baoning's birthday coincided with Princess Yong’an’s death anniversary. The Grand Empress Dowager dismissed her concern, explaining that Princess Yong'an was Baoning’s birth mother and would surely wish for her daughter's happiness. With no further excuses, Empress Dowager Cao was forced to agree.
Baoning suspected Zhao Yi had manipulated the Grand Empress Dowager into rushing the betrothal. At that moment, Li Qian appeared, returning Baoning’s perfume ball, which he had modified with a retractable chain and sharp spikes, making it a more effective self-defense weapon. Li Qian then returned to his residence, where he was delighted to find his childhood companion, Gao Miaorong, who he considered a sister, had arrived from Bingzhou.
She had already taken the initiative to tidy up his new residence and even prepared lotus seed soup for him, much to his appreciation, though he remained oblivious to her deeper feelings for him. Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Cao, resigned to Baoning becoming the Empress, strategized to place her own loyal person close to Zhao Yi. She summoned District Princess Qingyi Han Tongxin and Lord Jian, Han Tongxin’s grandfather.
After talking with Han Tongxin, who expressed her fondness for the palace and her willingness to stay by the Emperor’s side, Empress Dowager Cao sent her to greet Zhao Yi, while she discussed her plans with Lord Jian. Empress Dowager Cao proposed appointing Han Tongxin as Zhao Yi’s Noble Consort, assuring Lord Jian that the Grand Empress Dowager would not object. Lord Jian, however, expressed reluctance, citing Han Tongxin’s unruly nature and lack of palace etiquette.
Empress Dowager Cao insisted, reminding Lord Jian of his crucial support for her regency and emphasizing that such a marriage alliance would further strengthen their bond, leaving Lord Jian unable to refuse. District Princess Qingyi Han Tongxin, eager to see Zhao Yi, forcefully entered the Qinzheng Hall after being told he was busy, dismissing the eunuch’s attempts to stop her. Inside, she found Zhao Yi engrossed in a cricket fight.
Just then, Jiang Baoning also arrived, bringing ginseng chicken soup from the Grand Empress Dowager for Zhao Yi’s lingering cold. Baoning quickly noticed books on governance hidden nearby. Realizing that Han Tongxin was Empress Dowager Cao’s spy, Baoning, who was disguised as Zhao Yi’s "cricket fighting master," discreetly concealed the books, covering for Zhao Yi. She then playfully distracted Han Tongxin by making a cricket jump onto her shoulder, startling her.
Episode 4 Recap
Jiang Baoning cleverly placed a cricket on Commandery Princess Qingyi's shoulder, causing her to lose composure in front of Emperor Zhao Yi and make a hasty exit. Zhao Yi then apologized to Baoning for forcing their marriage. Baoning acknowledged that the marriage was inevitable but admitted her discomfort with the prospect of sharing a husband with many women. However, with her grandmother's decision, she committed to learning how to be a good empress.
Baoning keenly observed that the man playing crickets with Zhao Yi was not a professional, noting the calluses on his finger joints indicated he was accustomed to writing with a brush. Zhao Yi confessed the man was Yan Huanian, a former councilor of the Office of Grand Council, whom he had secretly invited back to the palace to teach him governance. He explained that since Empress Dowager Cao had taken control, his official tutors only taught him superficial knowledge.
Baoning advised Zhao Yi to study diligently, acknowledging Yan Huanian as her uncle's contact. Separately, Han Tongxin’s grandfather, Lord Jian, expressed his deep concern for her well-being, especially given the complexities of palace life where Empress Dowager Cao held all real power, leaving Zhao Yi a mere puppet.
He warned Han Tongxin that she would become a pawn if she married Zhao Yi and reminded her of Zhao Yi's many concubines and his close bond with Commandery Princess Jia’nan, questioning how much love she could truly receive. Han Tongxin, however, steadfastly declared her intention to marry solely for love, convinced that her genuine affection would win Zhao Yi's heart. She confidently added that her beauty, wisdom, and status as Lord Jian’s granddaughter would secure her an honored position.
Reluctantly, Lord Jian agreed to relay her wishes to Empress Dowager Cao. Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Cao was informed that the Machinist Contest she had investigated was merely Zhao Yi’s elaborate charade to entertain Baoning. Dismissing it as childish, she soon grew suspicious of Zhao Yi's new obsession with cricket fighting. She ordered her eunuch to investigate the identity and background of the outside trainer.
That night, Baoning realized she had forgotten to return a book on governance belonging to Zhao Yi. While examining it, she discovered detailed blueprints for a waterfowl ship. She connected these to the intricate mechanisms from the recent Machinist Contest, deducing that Zhao Yi had organized the competition not to amuse her, but to secretly gather expertise for building the ship.
Realizing Zhao Yi's hidden agenda, Baoning had her maid, Qingke, discreetly return the book to him and then urgently wrote a letter to her uncle, Jiang Zhenyuan, at The Archduke’s Mansion. Zhao Yi, relieved to recover his hidden book, noted that Baoning must have concealed it from Commandery Princess Qingyi. Upon her return to The Archduke's Mansion, Baoning learned that her cousin, Jiang Lyu, though publicly reported as ill, had been secretly dispatched to Zhuo’an by Jiang Zhenyuan.
Her suspicions were confirmed during a meeting with Jiang Zhenyuan. Baoning revealed her discovery of Zhao Yi’s secret tutelage under Yan Huanian and the waterfowl ship blueprints. She deduced their plan to use the ship to transport fighters to Longevity Hill during Empress Dowager Cao’s birthday banquet, aiming to force her to cede power.
Baoning pointed out that Zhao Yi’s eagerness to marry her was solely to secure the Jiang family’s backing to stabilize the court after Empress Dowager Cao's removal. While unwilling to marry Zhao Yi, Baoning also sought to protect her family. She argued that the Jiang family’s safety lay in neither Empress Dowager Cao nor the Emperor holding absolute power. She then revealed Zhao Yi's secret: he had a child with a palace maid, hidden outside the palace.
She believed that if Empress Dowager Cao gained custody of the child, Zhao Yi would be compelled to act cautiously. Jiang Zhenyuan agreed on the critical importance of protecting the maid. Baoning explained she had learned this information from Li Qian, whom she had met by chance and who had agreed to help her in exchange for her assistance in finding something in the palace.
Faced with the impending imperial edict to make her empress, Baoning vowed to find a way to annul the marriage, asserting she would not passively accept her fate. Jiang Zhenyuan expressed regret for not being able to shield her from these political entanglements, but Baoning reassured him that their family was her strongest support. Concurrently, Li Qian’s subordinate, Wei Shu, reported seeing Jiang Lyu, supposedly ill, secretly depart for Zhuo’an, the closest level-one garrison to Longevity Hill.
Li Qian immediately deduced the Archduke’s and Emperor’s plan to stage a coup at Empress Dowager Cao’s upcoming birthday banquet. Strategizing for his own family, Li Qian covertly entered Shoukang Palace to meet Baoning. He proposed a daring alliance: the Jiang family would secretly arrange for him to be by Empress Dowager Cao's side during the coup.
This would allow him to protect her, absolving the Jiang family of any blame for "offending" the Empress Dowager, while simultaneously giving him an opportunity to acquire The Book of Supreme Weapons. To earn her trust, Li Qian presented a commitment letter, pledging his entire family’s lives as collateral. Baoning accepted and gave him her personal jade pendant, instructing him to present it to Jiang Zhenyuan as proof of their agreement.
Li Qian then met Jiang Zhenyuan, candidly outlining his plan and requesting to be assigned as a guard at Longevity Hill. Trusting Baoning's judgment, Jiang Zhenyuan agreed to the dangerous alliance. Baoning visited Empress Dowager Cao under the pretext of presenting a handcrafted fan, hoping to subtly inquire about The Book of Supreme Weapons. However, Empress Dowager Cao quickly dismissed her, claiming preoccupation with state affairs, prompting Baoning to realize Li Qian's risky plan was their only option.
Separately, Empress Dowager Cao arranged for Commandery Princess Qingyi (Han Tongxin) to study with Baoning under Grand Mentor Xiong, suspecting Han Tongxin had designs on Zhao Yi. During their first lesson, Han Tongxin, despite presenting a valuable gift from her grandfather to Grand Mentor Xiong, exhibited an arrogant demeanor. She openly challenged the mentor's lesson topic and made disparaging remarks towards Baoning, even intentionally staining Baoning’s Jin County rice paper while boastfully claiming hers was superior, unaware they were identical.
Baoning, seeing Han Tongxin's aggressive and foolish behavior, sarcastically thought she was a "perfect candidate for the Empress." Baoning remained focused on her own strategies, ignoring Han Tongxin's provocations. While flying a kite, Baoning spotted Eunuch Min Zhou from Empress Dowager Cao's palace secretly trailing Yan Huanian. Fearing exposure, Baoning quickly changed into a maid's attire, and with Li Qian's timely intervention and clever deception, she managed to slip out of the palace.
Baoning explained Yan Huanian's true role to Li Qian—secretly teaching Zhao Yi governance—and the severe repercussions if Empress Dowager Cao discovered it. They then devised a plan. Baoning bought a horse and caused a chaotic diversion in the streets, successfully drawing Min Zhou's attention. This allowed Li Qian to discreetly escort Yan Huanian safely back to his residence. After the successful rescue, Li Qian noticed Baoning's sprained wrist, sustained during her ride.
Returning to his mansion, he requested Gao Miaorong to prepare a specialized ointment for a "friend." Later that night, despite Gao Miaorong's curiosity, Li Qian secretly brought the medicine to Baoning in Shoukang Palace, where Baoning, recognizing his characteristic lack of discretion, accepted it.
Back in the palace, Baoning immediately informed Zhao Yi of Empress Dowager Cao's growing suspicion towards Yan Huanian, urging him to cease Yan Huanian's visits to the palace and instead find another cricket trainer to serve as a decoy to dispel the Empress Dowager's doubts. Zhao Yi, while grateful, attempted to steer the conversation back to their marriage, but Baoning skillfully redirected him to focus on security.
Later that night, as Li Qian secretly delivered the sprain ointment to Baoning in her chambers, the Grand Empress Dowager unexpectedly arrived for a visit. To prevent Li Qian’s discovery, Baoning quickly hid him under her covers and feigned a severe cold, warning the Grand Empress Dowager not to approach her for fear of contagion. Convinced, the Grand Empress Dowager soon left, escorted by Qingke, allowing Li Qian to safely depart.
Episode 5 Recap
After the Grand Empress Dowager and her entourage departed, Li Qian accidentally tripped, causing him to fall on top of Baoning. Their eyes met, and a spark ignited between them. Li Qian quickly handed her an ointment, telling her to remember to use it, before hastily leaving. Baoning, in turn, thought to herself that she didn't need him to care about her. Meanwhile, Su Su accompanied her mother to a temple.
She had secretly bribed a fortune teller to declare that her fate of spouse was far-off, and a late marriage would bring prosperity to her and her husband. Su Su's mother accepted this, saying they would do as the fortune teller advised. Lord Cheng’en, who was also at the temple with his mother, observed Su Su's actions but did not expose her.
Baoning later explained to Su Su that Empress Dowager Cao had already made her move by introducing District Princess Qingyi, also known as Han Tongxin, to Zhao Yi and arranging for her to study in the palace school. Baoning planned to take advantage of District Princess Qingyi's arrogant and impulsive nature and her jealousy to intentionally sabotage her own impending marriage.
At a lively banquet in Shoukang Palace, Zhao Yi presented azaleas from the Qi Family in Jinxi to the Grand Empress Dowager, who was delighted. Baoning proposed a painting competition with Su Su and District Princess Qingyi, using the azaleas as their subject. District Princess Qingyi eagerly agreed. Zhao Yi offered a turquoise as a reward for the winner. During the competition, Baoning deliberately painted poorly, ensuring District Princess Qingyi's victory.
When District Princess Qingyi received the turquoise, Baoning feigned disappointment, causing Zhao Yi to promise her a more precious water-clear bead instead. Enraged and jealous that Baoning received something better despite losing, District Princess Qingyi declared Jiang Baoning "backhanded" and threw her turquoise, calling it a "useless rock" without Zhao Yi's affection. She then instructed her servant Baihe to keep a close eye on Baoning.
Later, Su Su found an opportunity to return Lord Cheng’en's jade pendant, which she had picked up at the temple. Lord Cheng’en questioned her previous actions at the temple, and Su Su explained that she didn’t want to marry early and leave Baoning alone in the palace.
She also expressed her longing for a marriage based on love rather than family interests, stating that as a lineal daughter in a noble family, her marriage was merely a strong link between families. Lord Cheng’en was impressed by her words, remarking that if he could find a soulmate, he would feel contented. He also noticed that Su Su had braided a new string for his jade pendant.
Baoning's servant, Qingke, was caught trying to sell a water-clear bead, which District Princess Qingyi discovered. Qingke pleaded that her mother was gravely ill, forcing her to steal the bead. District Princess Qingyi bought the bead from Qingke and blackmailed her into becoming a spy, demanding reports on Baoning's every move. Qingke soon informed District Princess Qingyi that Baoning had injured her wrist. At another banquet, District Princess Qingyi deliberately proposed that Baoning play the zither.
Baoning claimed she hadn't brought her own Jiaowei Zither, but District Princess Qingyi produced her grandmother's famous Lyuqi Zither, insisting Baoning use it. Though Baoning's wrist was still sprained, she was forced to perform. Noticing Baoning's struggle, Zhao Xiao, who had learned to play the zither since he was little, bravely offered to play a duet with her, using the same zither.
Their harmonious performance earned widespread praise from the guests, but a jealous Zhao Yi was furious, believing Zhao Xiao was exchanging glances with Baoning. Unable to openly confront Zhao Xiao, Zhao Yi took out his anger by deliberately smashing District Princess Qingyi's zither. District Princess Qingyi, in turn, blamed Baoning for everything and swore she would not let her go.
Meanwhile, Empress Dowager Cao was displeased by the impending decree to make Baoning the Empress, believing Baoning was unworthy of the title without the Grand Empress Dowager and The Archduke's influence. Upon learning from Baihe that Qingke had confessed under torture about her involvement in stealing the water-clear bead, District Princess Qingyi quickly ordered Baihe to secretly return the bead to Baoning's room in the Three Abodes of the East and then summon Empress Dowager Cao.
When Baoning arrived at District Princess Qingyi's room in the Three Abodes of the South, accusing her of theft, Empress Dowager Cao suddenly appeared. District Princess Qingyi immediately feigned innocence, threatening to take her own life to prove it, and accusing Baoning of slandering her. Just then, a eunuch reported that the water-clear bead had been "found" in Baoning's own bedroom.
Empress Dowager Cao scolded Baoning for her "naughty" behavior, disregard for rules, and for "slandering District Princess Qingyi" without evidence. Although the Grand Empress Dowager tried to dismiss it as a "little conflict between girls," Empress Dowager Cao sternly argued that Baoning's actions undermined her authority and would displease Lord Jian and other officials.
As a lenient punishment, Baoning was ordered to kneel in the Introspection Chamber for a night, and the empress coronation was postponed until after Empress Dowager Cao's birthday. Outside, palace servants gossiped that the coronation was now "nullified," and expressed concern about Baoning enduring the cold chamber on her birthday. Baoning, however, was secretly pleased that her plan had succeeded. Hearing of Baoning's punishment, Su Su decided to help her friend get some fresh air.
She pretended to have lost a bracelet awarded by the Grand Empress Dowager and asked Lord Cheng’en to help her search for it, leading him away. Lord Cheng’en, though aware of her true intentions, graciously agreed, seeing it as a thank you for the new string she had braided for his jade pendant. He also assured Su Su that he would ensure Baoning did not suffer.
Li Qian, too, heard of Baoning's punishment and secretly climbed over the palace wall to visit her in the Introspection Chamber. He found her quite comfortable with quilts, books, and candles provided by the Grand Empress Dowager. Li Qian confronted Baoning directly, having observed her calm and strategic behavior in past situations, such as with Fang Yiru's child. He deduced that she never truly wanted to marry Zhao Yi and that the day's events were her deliberate plan.
Baoning, seeing her facade pierced, admitted that she indeed had no intention of becoming Zhao Yi's Empress and had orchestrated the entire incident, including allowing District Princess Qingyi to take the water-clear bead. Li Qian recognized that Baoning was unlike other women, valuing happiness and freedom above all else. Later, Lord Jian praised District Princess Qingyi, informing her that Empress Dowager Cao intended to name her Empress at her birthday banquet. District Princess Qingyi was overjoyed.
Back in the Introspection Chamber, Baoning complained about Li Qian visiting her empty-handed. Li Qian, who had climbed the wall and could not carry much, produced two boiled eggs. As an apology, he led her to the palace kitchen, where he made her a bowl of longevity noodles, explaining that the palace bells striking midnight signaled her birthday. Eating the noodles, Baoning was deeply moved.
She remembered her mother, Princess Yong’an, making her longevity noodles many years ago, and commented that Li Qian's bland noodles tasted just like her mother's. The memory brought back the painful day of her birth, when her father, Zhenying, died on the Hunting Ground saving the Emperor from a berserk, tranquilized bear. Her mother, Princess Yong’an, rushed to his side but tragically died after her carriage fell off a cliff on a rainy day.
Baoning cried, remembering how the Grand Empress Dowager had taken her into the palace, promising to protect her forever. Li Qian, flustered by her tears, tried to cheer her up by offering garlic, a custom from his hometown of Jinxi. Baoning, amused by his attempt, playfully called him dirty.
Episode 6 Recap
After a night in the Introspection Chamber, Commandery Princess Jia’nan returned to the palace. The Grand Empress Dowager, feeling immense pity for Baoning, prepared her favorite dishes and dismissed the accusation that Baoning framed District Princess Qingyi. She ordered District Princess Qingyi to move out of the Three Abodes of the South and return to Lord Jian’s mansion, stating that she would no longer study with Baoning.
The Grand Empress Dowager reminded Baoning that it was her birthday, which also coincided with the death anniversary of her parents. She arranged a birthday banquet and asked Baoning to visit the ancestral temple to offer incense and speak to her parents. At the ancestral temple, Baoning assured her deceased parents that she was doing well with her grandmother. The Grand Empress Dowager summoned Gao Miaorong, a skilled physician from Jinxi, to treat Commandery Princess Jia’nan.
During the examination, Gao Miaorong recognized the distinctive scent of a sprain ointment on Baoning, realizing it was the same one she had prepared for Li Qian. This confirmed her suspicion that Baoning was the "friend" Li Qian had mentioned. After her consultation, Gao Miaorong politely declined any monetary reward, instead requesting that Commandery Princess Jia’nan use her influence to promote Li Qian, who was currently a third-rank armed guard.
Baoning, surprised by Gao Miaorong's deep concern for Li Qian, inquired about their relationship. Gao Miaorong explained that they had grown up together, leading Baoning to mistakenly believe they were betrothed. Feeling a pang of disappointment, Baoning then instructed her maid to discard the gilt perfume ball and ointment, asserting she couldn't help Li Qian. The Emperor Zhao Yi was furious about Empress Dowager Cao's decision to postpone the empress appointment and the punishment inflicted upon Baoning.
He suspected that Song Xianyi, a maid sent by Empress Dowager Cao, had uncovered his secrets. Overhearing Zhao Yi's order to eliminate her, Song Xianyi became terrified. Later, during Baoning’s birthday celebration with the Grand Empress Dowager and Zhao Yi, the Grand Empress Dowager offered Baoning any gift.
Baoning cleverly requested to attend Empress Dowager Cao's upcoming birthday banquet, explaining that as the future queen, she needed to show proper respect and maintain a good relationship with the Empress Dowager, especially after her recent punishment. Impressed by Baoning's "reason and thoughtfulness," the Grand Empress Dowager granted her permission. Zhao Yi then proposed that he would accompany Baoning to Longevity Hill the following day, offering to look after her.
Seeking urgent help, Song Xianyi approached Commandery Princess Jia’nan, revealing that Emperor Zhao Yi had a child with a former maid named Fang Yiru. She presented a letter from Zhao Yi bearing his private seal as proof, explaining that the Emperor now intended to silence her because she knew his secret.
Baoning acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, advised Song Xianyi to keep the letter, and promised to devise a plan to save her, though her original strategy regarding Fang Yiru was now complicated. Meanwhile, Jin Xiao, the eldest son of the Jin family, arrived in the capital to celebrate Empress Dowager Cao's birthday. Initially denied entry for lacking a travel pass, he was vouched for by Li Qian, the recently promoted third-rank armed guard.
After gaining entry, Li Qian hosted Jin Xiao at a restaurant, where they shared drinks and food, celebrating Li Qian's new position. The following day, as everyone prepared to depart for Longevity Hill, District Princess Qingyi deliberately secured a spot in Emperor Zhao Yi's carriage. Commandery Princess Jia’nan, unwilling to engage in a dispute, chose an alternative vehicle. Upon arrival at Longevity Hill, Li Qian discreetly sought out Baoning.
Baoning explained her presence was to create an opportunity for the Li family to firmly establish themselves as opponents of the Jiang family in the eyes of Empress Dowager Cao. Still feeling hurt and misled by the presumed betrothal between Li Qian and Gao Miaorong, Baoning returned the gilt perfume ball and the sprain ointment to Li Qian, curtly dismissing him from her presence.
Commandery Princess Jia’nan was greatly displeased to find her lodging at Longevity Hill unarranged by Min Zhou, Empress Dowager Cao's trusted eunuch. When she summoned him, Min Zhou sent a subordinate instead, then directly went to Emperor Zhao Yi to plead his case, hoping for leniency due to his association with the Empress Dowager. However, Zhao Yi, already annoyed by Min Zhou’s disrespect toward Baoning, ordered him to immediately apologize to her.
When Min Zhou attempted to explain that Baoning's preferred lodging, Qingshan Tang, was still being prepared for other titled women, Baoning's anger flared. She declared that she did not need his permission to choose her residence and commanded her attendants to throw him into the Qingxin Lake. Witnessing Min Zhou fall into the water, Li Qian promptly rescued him and sent him to the infirmary.
Afterward, Li Qian knelt before Baoning, acknowledging that he had intervened in a person she was punishing, and begged for her mercy. Baoning, however, rose and departed without a word. Li Qian remained kneeling, explaining to his subordinate Wei Shu that he could not get up until a high-ranking official like the Imperial Guards Commander Cao Guozhu interceded on his behalf. Wei Shu then went to find Cao Guozhu.
Upon learning from Wei Shu about Li Qian saving Min Zhou and being punished by Commandery Princess Jia’nan, Cao Guozhu immediately reported to Empress Dowager Cao. The Empress Dowager deduced that Baoning was merely retaliating for her own punishment. Recognizing a strategic opportunity to secure the Li family's loyalty, she instructed Cao Guozhu to deliberately delay assisting Li Qian, ensuring that Li Qian would understand that Empress Dowager Cao was the ultimate and sole source of support for his family.
After Cao Guozhu eventually "rescued" him, Li Qian clandestinely visited Baoning again. He informed her that he had successfully earned Cao Guozhu's trust. Baoning, still under the impression that Gao Miaorong was Li Qian's betrothed, gave him some medicine for his injured knee and teasingly told him to have his "little wife" apply it.
Li Qian quickly clarified the misunderstanding, explaining that Gao Miaorong was the niece of his father's military counsellor, an orphan who had grown up in their household and was, in fact, his sworn sister. Relieved and in high spirits after learning Li Qian had no fiancée, Baoning, much to Li Qian's flustered surprise, personally condescended to apply the medicine to his knee.
Having earlier promised to help Song Xianyi, Commandery Princess Jia’nan found an excuse to request her from Emperor Zhao Yi, bringing Song Xianyi under her protection. Baoning then advised Song Xianyi on a plan for survival, though she admitted she could only protect her temporarily. She suggested Song Xianyi inform Empress Dowager Cao about Emperor Zhao Yi's secret child with Fang Yiru, and then offer to become the nominal mother of the eldest son herself.
Song Xianyi, being Empress Dowager Cao's confidante and unable to bear children, would be an ideal choice to raise the imperial heir in the Empress Dowager's eyes, thus ensuring her own safety from the Emperor. Following this advice, Song Xianyi approached Empress Dowager Cao, proposing to raise the unborn child and pledging loyalty. Empress Dowager Cao, unwilling to allow Fang Yiru into the palace, saw this as an opportune moment.
She promoted Song Xianyi from Lady-in-Waiting to Talent Lady, giving her the official status needed to raise the imperial child. Shortly after, Empress Dowager Cao dispatched elite guards to bring Fang Yiru to Longevity Hill.
Aware of Empress Dowager Cao's intent to seize Fang Yiru, Baoning then met with Li Qian, instructing him about the operational signal: when the lanterns outside Cao Guozhu’s residence transformed into six-linked-pearl lanterns on the night of the action, it would signify Cao Guozhu’s elimination and signal Li Qian to proceed.
She explained that this was part of a larger scheme related to the Waterfowl Ship, which was developed from the previous Mechanical Craftsmanship Competition, now repurposed to facilitate a stealthy entry from the lakeside to eliminate Cao Guozhu during the birthday banquet.
Baoning then entrusted Li Qian with a crucial message to be sent back to the capital via carrier pigeon, emphasizing the urgency of ensuring Fang Yiru’s safe arrival at Longevity Hill on the night of the operation, before Empress Dowager Cao could get to her. Before Li Qian departed, Baoning reclaimed her gilt perfume ball and sternly told him to return alive. Subsequently, black-clad figures were seen infiltrating Fang Yiru's residence, eliminating her guards and abducting her, presumably on Baoning's orders to preempt Empress Dowager Cao.
Episode 7 Recap
On the day of Empress Dowager Cao’s birthday celebration, she publicly expressed her wish for Emperor Zhao Yi to establish an Empress soon and produce a prince. She then directly announced that District Princess Qingyi, Lord Jian’s granddaughter, would be installed as the Empress, moving to the central palace. Although Emperor Zhao Yi was displeased, he dared not openly defy the Empress Dowager’s decree and reluctantly accepted the arranged marriage.
District Princess Qingyi, dressed in solemn attire, entered the hall to be formally invested, fulfilling the long-held desires of both herself and Lord Jian. Court officials offered their congratulations, but Emperor Zhao Yi remained inwardly discontent. That night, the assassins arranged by Emperor Zhao Yi successfully infiltrated the palace and killed Cao Guozhu. Upon seeing the six-linked-pearl lanterns hanging outside, Wei Shu reported to Li Qian, signaling Cao Guozhu’s demise.
Li Qian instructed Wei Shu to station men to guard Paiyun Hall, which was the designated escape route for the Empress Dowager from Longevity Hill. Li Qian then went alone to rescue Empress Dowager Cao. Li Qian knew he had to convince Empress Dowager Cao that he had only accidentally discovered the news of Cao Guozhu's death and the Archduke's plot to usurp power, which meant he had to go by himself.
As the birthday celebration on Longevity Hill began, with performances staged for the Empress Dowager, ministers and noblewomen gathered to watch the opera. Lord Jian, overjoyed by his granddaughter's elevation to Empress, basked in the compliments of the officials. Commandery Princess Jia’nan (Baoning) observed Li Qian’s departure and worried about the progress of his plan.
Li Qian secretly entered Empress Dowager Cao's sleeping chambers, informing her that Cao Guozhu had been killed by the Jiang family's guards, and that Emperor Zhao Yi and the Archduke (Jiang Zhenyuan) were approaching with their men, seemingly with ill intentions. He implored Empress Dowager Cao to trust him and leave quickly. Empress Dowager Cao, realizing Emperor Zhao Yi's intent to force her to return power, confirmed Cao Guozhu's death and followed Li Qian.
However, they were intercepted by Emperor Zhao Yi and the Archduke (Jiang Zhenyuan) at the exit of Dehui Hall. Emperor Zhao Yi implored Empress Dowager Cao to return the reins of government, asserting that in his youth he was ignorant of state affairs, which necessitated her control. Now, however, he found himself without other options but to seek the Archduke's assistance in reforming the imperial administration.
Empress Dowager Cao tested Emperor Zhao Yi's understanding of Mu'an State's governance, discovering to her surprise that he possessed extensive knowledge of state affairs, realizing he had long planned this day. Recognizing her position was untenable, Empress Dowager Cao reluctantly agreed to hand over the imperial jade seal. Meanwhile, Jiang Lyu, the Archduke's son, accused the Vice Minister of Rites of disrespecting imperial authority by gifting Empress Dowager Cao a dragon-carved porcelain vase, and had him arrested.
Commandery Princess Jia’nan (Baoning) surmised that Empress Dowager Cao was now besieged by Emperor Zhao Yi. She discreetly slipped away from the banquet and, with the help of Zhao Xiao, successfully evaded the patrolling guards to intercept the Grand Empress Dowager, who was also arriving at Longevity Hill. As Empress Dowager Cao retrieved the jade seal, she recalled a childhood memory of Zhao Yi displeasing the late emperor with his studies.
She had once advised him to keep a low profile and accumulate strength for the future, like a dragon. Now, seeing Emperor Zhao Yi's accumulated efforts coming to fruition, she felt he had not disappointed her. Empress Dowager Cao personally handed the jade seal to Zhao Yi, hoping he would become a wise and good emperor. She then attempted to take her own life with a dagger, but Li Qian promptly knocked the weapon away, saving her.
At that moment, the Grand Empress Dowager arrived with Fang Yiru. In front of the Grand Empress Dowager, Zhao Yi admitted that Fang Yiru’s unborn child was his. The Grand Empress Dowager declared that regardless of the dispute between the Empress Dowager and the Emperor, the child in Fang Yiru’s womb was of royal blood and must be protected. Seeing this, Empress Dowager Cao also vowed to safeguard the royal lineage.
Commandery Princess Jia'nan (Baoning), realizing that she had been kept in the dark about Fang Yiru's pregnancy, grew upset and left, ignoring Zhao Yi's attempts to explain. Soon after, Fang Yiru experienced labor pains, prompting Empress Dowager Cao to quickly summon a midwife. After some effort, Fang Yiru gave birth to Emperor Zhao Yi's eldest illegitimate son. The Grand Empress Dowager was overjoyed upon hearing of the birth of the first royal prince.
Although Empress Dowager Cao had returned power to the Emperor, she remained somewhat resentful and believed the inner palace was still under her authority. Therefore, she decided that the young prince would live with her on Longevity Hill, sharing familial happiness. She also assigned Li Qian's Guards of Li from Bingzhou to protect them. Emperor Zhao Yi, though helpless, readily agreed.
Empress Dowager Cao informed Li Qian that from that day on, he was promoted to head of the Imperial Guards of Longevity Hill, responsible for her protection. The Archduke (Jiang Zhenyuan) was relieved, noting that the Li family's involvement allowed the Jiang family to emerge from the political upheaval unscathed. Li Qian arranged for the Guards of Li to protect the Empress Dowager.
Hearing that Emperor Zhao Yi, the officials, and Commandery Princess Jia’nan (Baoning), among others, had all left Longevity Hill, Li Qian felt a sense of melancholy. He realized that from now on, he would be confined to Longevity Hill, making it difficult to see Baoning again. On her way back to the capital, the Grand Empress Dowager expressed gratitude that Baoning had informed her in advance, ensuring the preservation of the royal lineage.
She assured Baoning that after the Empress Dowager's birthday banquet, she would find her a sincere and devoted husband. Although Baoning felt a stirring in her heart for Li Qian, she did not openly confess her true feelings to her grandmother. With the Empress Dowager having returned power, Emperor Zhao Yi was eager to assert his personal rule, and many ministers were astonished by the sudden shift in power in the capital.
Han Tongxin came to congratulate Emperor Zhao Yi on his personal rule. A tea-serving maid inadvertently addressed her as "District Princess Qingyi," enraging Han Tongxin. Han Tongxin, asserting her authority as Empress, ordered the maid to be punished. Emperor Zhao Yi was displeased by her actions and mocked her, stating she was incomparable to Baoning. Han Tongxin, in a fit of pique, retorted, nearly provoking Emperor Zhao Yi to strike her.
He then warned Han Tongxin that out of respect for the Empress Dowager, she should remain in her Ciyuan Hall as Empress and avoid bothering him. Royal relatives, learning that Commandery Princess Jia’nan (Baoning) had not been appointed Empress, began to seek her hand in marriage for their respective sons. After much consideration, the Grand Empress Dowager found Zhao Xiao, the Son of Marquis Jinghai, to be a suitable match.
Given his family’s character, she believed Baoning would be well treated if Zhao Xiao also harbored feelings for her. As the Lantern Festival approached, the Grand Empress Dowager hosted a banquet for younger generations, using the occasion to discreetly assess Zhao Xiao, finding him very satisfactory. On the day of the Lantern Festival, Su Su invited Baoning to stroll outside the palace.
Baoning, having learned from Jiang Lyu that Li Qian was currently in the capital, decided to leave the palace to find him. Li Qian arranged for Wei Shu to escort Gao Miaorong back to Bingzhou, then closed his family home, preparing to depart for Longevity Hill. Baoning and Su Su became separated amidst the crowds at the Lantern Festival. Su Su unexpectedly encountered Lord Cheng’en, while Li Qian, walking leisurely through the streets, coincidentally stumbled upon Baoning.
Episode 8 Recap
Jiang Baoning encountered Li Qian on the street, mentioning she had visited his empty mansion. She requested they meet the next morning outside the city. The following day, Jiang Baoning burned the commitment letter she had made with Li Qian, stating that the alliance between their families was over and the letter was a liability. She then asked if Li Qian had found any news about The Book of Supreme Weapons through his service to Empress Dowager Cao.
Li Qian confirmed that Empress Dowager Cao had mentioned the book was located in the Treasure House at Longevity Hill, which Baoning noted was full of traps and secret doors, offering to gather more information about it. Taking the opportunity, Li Qian reminded Baoning of his promise to teach her to ride a horse. He guided her, urging her to hold the reins firmly and be careful, even offering a hand when she initially refused his help.
As they prepared to part, Baoning mentioned she had been out too long and needed to return, suggesting Li Qian not escort her to avoid being seen together. Li Qian expressed his uncertainty about when they would meet again, wishing her well and concealing his reluctance to part. Emperor Zhao Yi continued to persecute Cao Xuan, Empress Dowager Cao’s nephew, by assigning him menial tasks and punishing him for minor infractions.
Zhao Yi had Cao Xuan kneel for an entire day, during which he refused water from a sympathetic Su Su, fearing it would implicate her. He even fainted, but Su Su discreetly gave him water to revive him before leaving. Despite her efforts, Cao Xuan continued to avoid Su Su, believing his current disgraced state would only drag her down. Su Su's parents then tried to arrange a marriage for her with Han Qizong.
Su Su, usually obedient, vehemently rejected the proposal. After spending a sleepless night, Su Su went to Duke Chengen’s Mansion and directly asked him to marry her, arguing that her family’s status would benefit him. However, Cao Xuan again refused, believing she merely pitied him. Distraught, Su Su confided in Jiang Baoning, who immediately confronted Cao Xuan.
Jiang Baoning exposed Han Qizong as an abusive drunk who had caused the mysterious deaths of his two previous wives, escaping justice due to Empress Han’s influence. She emphasized that Han Qizong was now seeking to marry Su Su as his third wife, solely relying on Empress Han's power. Realizing the danger, Cao Xuan immediately went to Marquis Dingbei’s Mansion to propose to Su Su, declaring his sincerity and hoping for approval. Su Su, secretly listening, was overjoyed.
Cao Xuan later told Su Su that he changed his mind because life is too short for regrets. Emperor Zhao Yi, upon hearing that Zhao Xiao had praised Jiang Baoning to the Grand Empress Dowager, summoned Zhao Xiao and angrily demanded he choose between his life and Baoning.
Zhao Xiao, undeterred, declared his sincere love for Baoning, stating he would be "with a heart so dear, until death do us part," and bravely stepped towards Zhao Yi’s drawn sword, getting stabbed in the shoulder. The Grand Empress Dowager arrived, stopping Zhao Yi and scolding him, reminding him that he already had an empress and a son, and Baoning was no longer his to claim.
Later, she asked Zhao Xiao, who had risked his life for Baoning, how he would protect her if they were married. Zhao Xiao pledged to return to Nanmin, inherit his father's legacy of fighting pirates, cease the expansion of his family's power, and never again set foot in the capital, all for Baoning's sake. The Grand Empress Dowager praised his wisdom and devotion.
She then discussed the matter with Baoning, emphasizing that her future husband must possess the courage and strength to defy the Emperor and protect her. Though Baoning initially hesitated, thinking of Li Qian, she ultimately agreed to the Grand Empress Dowager’s arrangement. The Grand Empress Dowager immediately decided to travel to Longevity Hill in two days to inform Empress Dowager Cao of the betrothal and gain her approval, as she was still nominally in charge of harem affairs.
Baoning asked to accompany her, and the Grand Empress Dowager agreed, suggesting Zhao Xiao also join them to pay his respects to Empress Dowager Cao. Empress Han Tongxin, learning of the Grand Empress Dowager's plan to betroth Jiang Baoning to Zhao Xiao, immediately decided to interfere. She rushed to Longevity Hill, aiming to speak with Empress Dowager Cao before the Grand Empress Dowager and Baoning arrived.
Han Tongxin warned Empress Dowager Cao that the alliance between Baoning's family, the Archduke's Mansion, and Zhao Xiao, who commanded significant military power in Nanmin, would inevitably lead to political instability. However, Empress Dowager Cao, having retired from state affairs, dismissed her concerns. She stated that the Emperor was now in charge and she trusted Zhao Xiao's loyalty.
Empress Dowager Cao further clarified that she had no authority over Baoning's marriage and that the Grand Empress Dowager's visit was merely a formality to issue a standard edict. Frustrated by this rebuff, Han Tongxin secretly vowed that Jiang Baoning would not achieve a happy marriage after causing discord in her own life. Meanwhile, Emperor Zhao Yi investigated Song Xianyi and confirmed that she had secretly visited Empress Dowager Cao at Longevity Hill.
Concluding that Song Xianyi was also the one who tipped off the Grand Empress Dowager, Zhao Yi ordered her immediate confinement to the Cold Palace. Later, Li Qian, on patrol at Longevity Hill, encountered Zhao Xiao, who was still injured. Zhao Xiao joyfully announced that the Grand Empress Dowager was arranging his marriage to Jiang Baoning and that he was there with Baoning and her grandmother to seek Empress Dowager Cao's approval, even inviting Li Qian to their wedding.
Li Qian was visibly disheartened but wished him well. Sometime after, Li Qian unexpectedly saw Jiang Baoning. He feigned composure and congratulated her on her upcoming marriage to the Son of Marquis Jinghai, describing him as a talented man of noble birth who would surely make her happy. Baoning, sensing his indifference, angrily retorted that he didn't know anything.
Jiang Baoning visited Emperor Zhao Yi, feigning disinterest in marriage and expressing a desire to relax at Longevity Hill with the Grand Empress Dowager. She then cunningly requested the layout of the Treasure House at Longevity Hill, claiming she was fond of delicate gadgets and wanted to know what to ask for. Zhao Yi, still trying to win her favor, readily provided the blueprints.
Later, while secretly making her way towards the Treasure House, Baoning encountered Qing Tai, the First Prince of Yongqing. He mistakenly thought she was attacking him, but Baoning was actually killing a poisonous snake, earning his respect for her beauty and combat skills. Although initially planning to go to the Treasure House, she changed her mind. The next morning, she and her maid arrived at the Treasure House before the Guards of Li had fully deployed.
Leaving her maid outside, Baoning entered, using the blueprints to locate and twist a hidden ornament, which opened a secret passage leading to The Book of Supreme Weapons. Just as she found the book, someone deliberately set the Treasure House on fire, trapping Baoning amidst the spreading flames as she desperately called for help.
Episode 9 Recap
Empress Han Tongxin ordered a fire to be set in the Treasure House and intentionally left a small opening in the door, hoping to teach Princess Jia’nan a lesson. Han Tongxin, despite being the Emperor's Empress, resented that Emperor Zhao Yi only cared about Princess Jia’nan. The fire intensified, trapping Princess Jia’nan and causing her to be overwhelmed by smoke, despite an initial attempt to leave an escape route.
Li Qian, learning of the fire, immediately rushed to the Treasure House to rescue Princess Jia’nan. Inside, Princess Jia’nan, believing her life was ending, kissed Li Qian, wanting to act on her feelings before it was too late. Li Qian vowed to save her. He carried Princess Jia’nan out. As Zhao Xiao arrived with his men to help, Li Qian gently placed Princess Jia’nan in a visible spot for Zhao Xiao to find, then discreetly hid himself.
Zhao Xiao discovered Princess Jia’nan and brought her back to safety. Upon regaining consciousness, Princess Jia’nan was informed that Zhao Xiao had rescued her, leading her to believe that her kiss with Li Qian in the fire was a hallucination. She also assumed The Book of Supreme Weapons had been destroyed in the blaze, feeling a pang of guilt towards Li Qian.
Meanwhile, Li Qian, heartbroken by the impending marriage of Princess Jia’nan to Zhao Xiao, drowned his sorrows in alcohol, questioning his own thoughts as she was about to be married. Emperor Zhao Yi, hearing of Princess Jia’nan's peril, hurried to Longevity Hill, displeased by Zhao Xiao's presence near her. Marquis Jinghai, Zhao Xiao's father, was delighted by the news of the Grand Empress Dowager's approval of the marriage, seeing it as greatly beneficial for Nanmin.
Li Qian discovered that Min Xi, who had previously offended Prince Qing Tai of Yongqing State, was dead. He suspected Prince Qing Tai's involvement and decided to report it to Empress Dowager Cao, advising his friend Jin Xiao to keep silent for now to avoid international issues. Empress Dowager Cao hosted a banquet for Prince Qing Tai at Longevity Hill, which Emperor Zhao Yi also attended, claiming he was there to join the festivities.
During the banquet, Prince Qing Tai boldly proposed marriage to Princess Jia’nan, citing her eligibility and Mu'an's diplomatic relations. Empress Dowager Cao responded that Princess Jia’nan was already betrothed to Zhao Xiao. However, Prince Qing Tai argued that without a formal imperial edict, the betrothal was not yet official. He then challenged Zhao Xiao to a competition, with the winner earning Princess Jia’nan's hand, threatening to sever diplomatic ties if his challenge was refused.
Princess Jia’nan, learning of these developments, rushed to the scene, only to hear Emperor Zhao Yi, influenced by Qing Tai's threats and his own jealousy of Zhao Xiao, reluctantly agree to the competition. Li Qian was determined that Princess Jia’nan must not marry the cruel Prince Qing Tai. He sought out Zhao Xiao and offered tactical advice for the upcoming duel, cautioning him about Yongqing's dueling style and suggesting agile footwork to strike weak points.
The first round of combat between Zhao Xiao and Prince Qing Tai concluded in a draw. Prince Qing Tai then proposed a horse battle, a challenge Emperor Zhao Yi hesitantly accepted despite the known advantage of Yongqing's horses. Li Qian realized Zhao Xiao was severely injured internally from the first round.
Despite Jin Xiao's protests and concerns for his well-being, Li Qian insisted on taking Zhao Xiao's place, declaring he would rather die than let Princess Jia’nan marry Prince Qing Tai. The horse battle commenced, with both combatants in full armor, their identities indistinguishable. The match was fierce, and in a critical moment, Li Qian took a deliberate injury to win the golden trophy.
Left with no other choice, Emperor Zhao Yi issued an oral decree betrothing Princess Jia’nan to Zhao Xiao and granting him the title of Fiancé of Princess Jia’nan. Princess Jia’nan, watching the victorious rider, briefly thought she recognized "those eyes." Empress Han Tongxin, however, found Zhao Xiao's sudden prowess in the second match suspicious, suggesting he might have been "possessed."
After the competition, the Grand Empress Dowager, immensely relieved, sent valuable knife wound medicine to Zhao Xiao and asked Princess Jia’nan to deliver it personally. Princess Jia’nan reluctantly went and overheard Zhao Xiao thanking Li Qian for his help. Seeing Li Qian's own wounds, Princess Jia’nan's realization dawned: it was Li Qian who had truly rescued her from the fire and fought in the match. She fled in distress.
Angry yet concerned, Princess Jia’nan confided in Su Su, complaining about Li Qian's "cowardly" act of hiding his identity. Su Su suggested that Li Qian must love Princess Jia’nan to risk his life for her and questioned Princess Jia’nan's true feelings for him and her willingness to marry Zhao Xiao. Princess Jia’nan admitted she liked Li Qian but was frustrated by his behavior. Despite his severe chest wound, Li Qian insisted on continuing his patrol to avoid any suspicion.
Jin Xiao argued that Li Qian's sacrifice for Princess Jia’nan to marry Zhao Xiao was not worth it, especially since Li Qian himself loved her. Li Qian countered that while he envied Zhao Xiao, he preferred her to marry Zhao Xiao over Prince Qing Tai. Princess Jia’nan, deep in thought about Li Qian, played the zither and sent her maid, Qingke, with palace-grade wound medicine to Li Qian.
Meanwhile, Zhao Xiao visited Princess Jia’nan, offering her his late mother's treasured zither, Jiaotong, saying that she was now his most cherished possession and promising to cherish her for life. Princess Jia’nan politely declined, unwilling to take such a personal heirloom. Han Tongxin's maid spotted Qingke secretly delivering medicine and followed her, discovering Li Qian's injury. The maid reported this to Han Tongxin, who then sent her to investigate Zhao Xiao's injuries.
Though unable to get close to Zhao Xiao due to his guards, the maid retrieved medicine dregs. A physician confirmed that the medicine was for internal injuries and was incompatible with external wound treatment, revealing that Zhao Xiao's injury was internal, not the public "knife wound" claimed. Han Tongxin realized Li Qian had fought in Zhao Xiao's place, seeing it as a golden opportunity.
Separately, Li Qian, having found no clues about his mother in The Book of Supreme Weapons, decided to return it to Princess Jia’nan. Han Tongxin informed Prince Qing Tai of Zhao Xiao's deception. At a subsequent banquet, Prince Qing Tai publicly exposed the substitute fighter, accusing Mu'an of "shamelessness." Emperor Zhao Yi furiously questioned Zhao Xiao, who, left with no alternative, confessed that a subordinate had fought in his place.
Prince Qing Tai then demanded Emperor Zhao Yi immediately betroth Princess Jia’nan to him, threatening war with Yongqing's 200,000 cavalry if refused. Marquis Jinghai forced his son, Zhao Xiao, to kneel, scolding him for risking a war that would make him a "sinner known by later generations." Empress Dowager Cao and Empress Han Tongxin both urged Emperor Zhao Yi to prioritize national stability. Angered by their pressure to marry Princess Jia’nan to Yongqing, the Grand Empress Dowager feigned fainting.
Using her "unwell" state as an excuse, Emperor Zhao Yi immediately canceled the betrothal between Zhao Xiao and Princess Jia’nan, postponing any further discussions. The Grand Empress Dowager later admitted to her physician that she faked the faint to prevent Princess Jia’nan from being forced into a marriage with Yongqing. Li Qian, believing Princess Jia’nan was elsewhere, secretly entered her room to return The Book of Supreme Weapons but was caught by her.
Princess Jia’nan immediately recognized the book and accused him of lying about how he acquired it. She revealed that Zhao Xiao's deception had been exposed and their betrothal canceled. She then confronted Li Qian, asking how he truly felt about her given his actions of saving her and fighting for her. Princess Jia’nan confessed her love, asking him to abandon everything and elope with her. Li Qian, however, apologized and rejected her. Enraged by his refusal, Princess Jia’nan slapped him and called him "What a coward!"
Episode 10 Recap
The Grand Empress Dowager was furious with Zhao Xiao for having someone compete in his place. With the engagement broken, she was determined to find a new husband for Baoning, insisting that Baoning must not marry into Yongqing State. However, after Li Qian rejected her confession, a disheartened Baoning declared to her grandmother that she had decided to marry into Yongqing State.
She reasoned that as a Commandery Princess of Mu’an, it was only right for her to marry for the sake of the two nations' relations. To ease her grandmother's worries, Baoning described Yongqing State as picturesque, abundant in resources, and a place where women were not bound by strict traditional virtues, claiming she longed for such a free life.
The next day, before a gathering of people, the Grand Empress Dowager asked Baoning again if she was truly willing to marry into Yongqing State. Baoning affirmed her decision. Emperor Zhao Yi's attempts to intervene were futile. The Grand Empress Dowager then issued an imperial decree, bestowing Baoning's marriage upon Qing Tai, the First Prince of Yongqing, with the wedding date to be set soon.
Both Qingke and Xiaoman lamented Baoning's distant marriage to Yongqing, but powerless to change the situation, they helped her pack. Baoning decided to return the zither Zhao Xiao had given her, using it as an opportunity to end things between them, telling him she believed he would eventually find a better person to give the zither to.
Feeling sorrowful and with no one else to confide in, Zhao Xiao went to Li Qian, seeking solace in drink and thanking Li Qian for his help during the competition. In his drunken state, Zhao Xiao regretted his poor martial skills that cost him the Commandery Princess. Li Qian, too, was filled with remorse, realizing that even with superior martial arts, he couldn't keep the woman he loved.
Zhao Xiao mentioned Baoning returning the zither, making Li Qian reflect on his own feelings for Baoning. Upon his return from Jinxi, Wei Shu discovered an unusual deployment of Yongqing's army on the outskirts of the capital. Li Qian, sensing something was amiss, instructed Jin Xiao to monitor the number of Yongqing people entering and leaving the capital.
Simultaneously, he dispatched Wei Shu to Bingzhou to have Li Changqing investigate Yongqing's military movements along the border, noting that the military token he had seen earlier was for commanding armies, not merely for good news. On the day of Su Su's wedding, Baoning came to send off her dear friend. She gave Su Su a bracelet inherited from her mother, hoping it would accompany Su Su in her stead.
Knowing Baoning's dislike for Qing Tai, Su Su encouraged her to bravely pursue her own happiness. Baoning, however, sadly replied that happiness between two people required mutual effort, and her own attempts had failed. She then watched Su Su depart, silently wishing her friend a lifetime of happiness. Li Qian soon received a letter from his father, Li Changqing, which confirmed his suspicions.
He immediately rushed to the palace to see Baoning, explaining that Qing Tai's true intention in marrying her was to use the bridal procession as an opportunity to open the city gates, invade, and attack Mu’an State. Baoning was skeptical, pointing out that Li Qian had no concrete evidence. She asserted that she could not jeopardize the relations between two nations based solely on his conjectures and stated that she was marrying for the sake of the common people.
At this moment, Li Qian finally admitted his true feelings, telling her that her safety and happiness were paramount to him. He explained that he had initially rejected her affection because he feared he could not provide her with happiness. Regardless of her decision, Li Qian vowed to protect Baoning in his own way. Li Qian secretly sought out Zhao Xiao for help, disclosing Qing Tai's plot.
They arranged to meet the next morning to rescue Baoning according to their plan. Zhao Xiao then ordered his subordinate, Zhao Zhong, to assemble their best men for the rescue mission. However, Marquis Jinghai, Zhao Xiao's father, overheard their conversation.
The Marquis rebuked Zhao Xiao for his foolishness, warning that if Li Qian's predictions were wrong, kidnapping the Commandery Princess would lead to a breakdown in international relations and brand Zhao Xiao as a historical sinner of Mu’an, potentially causing the ruin of Nanmin. Seeing his son's stubborn resolve, Marquis Jinghai ordered his subordinates to confine Zhao Xiao to his room, forbidding him from leaving.
The next morning, as the appointed time arrived and passed without Zhao Xiao, Li Qian decided to act alone. Qing Tai's wedding procession began its journey out of the capital. Along the way, Baoning noticed she was being closely watched and restricted, and the accompanying minister ignored her concerns. Realizing that the minister had been bribed by Yongqing, Baoning devised a plan.
Taking advantage of a chaotic fire that created a distraction, Xiaoman managed to steal a horse and escape to the nearest Jingtian Mansion. Her mission was to deliver a message to the Grand Coordinator, urging him and other nearby officials to delay the procession and send help. Baoning and Qingke then split up, creating a diversion to draw the attention of Yongqing soldiers. Before long, however, Qing Tai and his men caught up with Baoning.
Fearing she would jeopardize his grand scheme, Qing Tai decided to kill her. In this critical moment, Li Qian arrived on horseback, fending off the Yongqing soldiers. He declared his intention to take Baoning away, promising to bear all the consequences himself. Meanwhile, in his confinement, Zhao Xiao made a difficult choice between his love for Baoning and his family's welfare.
He left a letter declaring his voluntary severance of all ties with Nanmin, stating his sole purpose was to save Baoning. Enraged, Marquis Jinghai cursed him as an unfilial son. After being rescued, Baoning awoke to find her bridal attire replaced with simpler clothes and mistakenly assumed Li Qian had changed them, feeling awkward. She thanked Li Qian for risking his life to save her.
Li Qian reassured her he was ready to face any repercussions as himself, not as a substitute for anyone, which brought a smile to Baoning's face. Shortly after, a kind old woman (momo) arrived with millet porridge and revealed that she had been the one to change Baoning's clothes, causing Baoning to blush with embarrassment at her earlier assumption. The following day, Li Qian and Baoning set off for Yunzhong, the closest government office.
They traveled together, relying on each other. As night fell, Baoning initially insisted on separate rooms, citing propriety between men and women. However, the howling of wolves outside soon frightened her, and she eventually called Li Qian into the room for protection.
Episode 11 Recap
Due to the strong wind outside, Baoning called for Li Qian to come inside. He initially hesitated, citing propriety, but she insisted. Li Qian felt a sense of happiness lying beside Baoning. The next morning, Baoning woke up in Li Qian's arms, felt awkward, and quickly slipped away to calm her racing heart. Li Qian playfully remarked that his arm felt numb from sleeping, hinting at their shared bed, which caused Baoning further embarrassment.
She quickly changed the subject, urging them to continue their journey. Later, Li Qian caught two fish, planning to roast them. Baoning, unaccustomed to such humble fare, initially refused. Li Qian teased her by eating his fish, claiming there would be no more food until they reached a town. When Baoning complained, he revealed a specially prepared "beggar's fish" wrapped in lotus leaves for her, which she happily ate.
Arriving at an inn, Baoning used her bracelet to secure two high-quality rooms and a lavish meal. She then sent Li Qian out to buy new clothes. Upon his return, Baoning offered Li Qian a drink, thanking him for his efforts. She drugged him, expressing her resolve that he wouldn't get hurt, and then left him unconscious, intending to face the danger alone to prevent him from being implicated.
Li Qian soon woke up, realizing Baoning had drugged him and left. He immediately set out to find her, encountering Qing Tai's soldiers, confirming his fears. He heard Baoning's cries for help after she fell into a trap and quickly rescued her. Baoning, still worried about being a burden, tried to deter him, but Li Qian steadfastly declared, "If you live, I live; if you die, I die. To heaven or earth, I'll accompany you to the end."
During the ensuing confrontation with Qing Tai, Baoning was injured while protecting Li Qian, but he managed to get her on horseback and escape into Jinxi territory. Qing Tai’s pursuit was halted by his subordinates, who warned against entering Jinxi due to Li Qian, the son of the Bingzhou Governor, having a strong military presence there. In the palace, the Grand Empress Dowager was distressed over Baoning's situation.
Su Su reassured her, explaining that Li Qian had genuinely protected Baoning multiple times, including rescuing her from the Treasure House fire and winning the joust to prevent her forced marriage to Qing Tai. Su Su believed Baoning had developed feelings for Li Qian and had willingly followed him, even though Li Qian's humble background made him an unlikely match.
The Grand Empress Dowager, recognizing Li Qian as a good man and concerned about the Emperor's reaction, decided that Baoning should choose her own fate and prepared two blank imperial edicts. Li Qian took the injured Baoning to a master for treatment. The master explained that Baoning's poison was curable but would take years to completely clear, and her delicate constitution, weakened since childhood, required extra care. When asked about their relationship, Li Qian declared Baoning his wife.
The master then warned them against intimacy until the poison was fully gone, as pregnancy could be fatal for both mother and child. Baoning, who was secretly awake, felt deeply embarrassed and internally fumed at Li Qian's declaration. Li Qian then playfully tried to spoon-feed Baoning her medicine, knowing she was awake. Baoning snatched the bowl and drank it quickly.
Despite her injuries, Baoning insisted on returning to the palace immediately to prevent Li Qian from being charged with kidnapping a princess, fearing he would be executed. Li Qian, however, confessed his deep love for her, pledging, "Your subject Li Qian yearns for you, cherishing love in his heart. Your subject wishes to marry you.
If Princess is willing to entrust her life to me, Li Qian will surely keep his promise to the Princess, protecting her for life, sharing the same quilt in life and the same grave in death, with our hearts bound in life and death." He urged her to follow her heart, dismissing her concerns for his safety. Suddenly, Jiang Lyu, Baoning's older brother, burst in, furious at Li Qian for causing Baoning's injury and defiling her reputation.
He physically assaulted Li Qian, who, admitting his fault and expressing his sincere love for Baoning, accepted the blows without retaliation. Zhao Xiao arrived, intervening and claiming Li Qian's actions were on his behalf to save Baoning. Li Qian, however, corrected him, revealing that Zhao Xiao had failed to uphold his promise to help rescue Baoning, proving him too hesitant to be entrusted with her lifelong happiness. He firmly declared that Baoning's safety would now be his sole responsibility.
Zhao Xiao, realizing Li Qian intended to compete for Baoning, became enraged, scoffing at Li Qian's humble origins and asserting his own right to Baoning based on an earlier imperial decree from the Grand Empress Dowager. Li Qian retorted that Baoning belonged to no one but herself, and her choices should be her own. Zhao Xiao, feeling betrayed, challenged Li Qian to a duel. Before the duel could escalate, Su Su and Lord Cheng’en arrived, carrying an imperial edict.
Lord Cheng’en read the decree, announcing the Grand Empress Dowager’s decision to bestow Baoning, the Jianan Princess, in marriage to Li Qian. Su Su then explained that the Grand Empress Dowager had, in fact, sent two blank imperial edicts—one for marriage and one for execution—allowing Baoning to choose her own fate, as her happiness was paramount.
Enraged by the decree, Zhao Xiao resumed his attack on Li Qian, but when Zhao Xiao faced a dangerous fall, Li Qian instinctively saved him. However, Zhao Xiao, in a fit of rage, tried to stab Li Qian, only to be stopped by Jiang Lyu. Jiang Lyu warned Zhao Xiao that killing Li Qian would be an act of defiance against the imperial decree and would brand Baoning as a jinx.
Consumed by hatred, Zhao Xiao declared his brotherhood with Li Qian severed and vowed eternal enmity. Later, when Marquis Jinghai's men came to recall Zhao Xiao, he defiantly rejected his father's expectations, stating he would not live a heartless life solely for the family title, like his father had. Baoning expressed concern over Li Qian's numerous injuries, but he lightheartedly teased her about her concern, claiming she was "murdering her husband."
He confidently asserted she was destined to be his wife, knowing she had chosen him by destroying the other edict (the one for execution). Baoning playfully denied caring for him, feigning indifference. Later, Jiang Lyu confronted Baoning, questioning her choice of Li Qian among many suitors. Baoning simply stated she felt fated to be with him.
Jiang Lyu, still disapproving of Li Qian, passionately pledged the Jiang family's unwavering support, promising to annul the marriage if Baoning ever changed her mind or if Li Qian mistreated her. He even offered to raise any children she might have under the Jiang name. His heartfelt words moved Baoning to tears.
Jin Xiao reported to Li Qian, revealing that Yongqing State had planned to invade Mu'an State by using Baoning's wedding as a pretext for a coordinated attack, with Qing Tai serving as an internal agent. Although Baoning was now safe, Jin Xiao warned that Yongqing might declare war under the pretense of a broken marriage promise. He also confirmed that Qing Tai had escaped but was likely still within Mu'an borders.
Li Qian instructed Jin Xiao to immediately relay this critical intelligence to the capital and also sent a letter to his father, ordering heightened defenses and Qing Tai's capture. The Grand Empress Dowager, wishing to avoid further conflict, decreed that Baoning and Li Qian should marry on-site. Su Su accompanied Baoning to a courtyard designated for her before the wedding, urging her to embrace her new life away from courtly strife.
Li Qian visited Baoning, assuring her to wait peacefully as he would come to marry her in a few days. Upon returning to his mansion, Li Qian was immediately summoned to the ancestral hall by his father. His father furiously rebuked him for "kidnapping" the princess in front of Yongqing officials, fearing the repercussions for their family. Li Qian, despite his injuries, quickly shifted the conversation to the urgent matter of Qing Tai.
His father confirmed that Qing Tai was indeed hiding within Bingzhou City, attempting to escape, and that Yongqing's army was stationed outside, threatening to invade as revenge. Both agreed that Qing Tai must be captured before a full-scale war erupted. Li Qian then personally led the search, eventually tracking Qing Tai to a brothel and apprehending him. Qing Tai, captured, defiantly swore to repay Li Qian a thousandfold for the humiliation.
The King of Yongqing personally arrived to negotiate for Qing Tai’s release, emphasizing peace and offering compensation to avoid war. Li Qian's father noted that while they had evidence of Yongqing's malicious intent, a full-scale war was not desirable given Mu'an's depleted treasury. Li Qian, using Qing Tai as leverage, insisted that Qing Tai's attempt to invade Mu'an under the guise of marriage was not a personal matter and demanded a sincere gesture from the King.
The King, expressing shame for his son’s actions, agreed to sign an alliance, pledging eternal brotherhood and non-aggression, offering his royal scepter as a token of his sincerity. Li Qian agreed, and Qing Tai was released, but remained deeply resentful, continuing to hurl insults at Li Qian even as his guards dragged him away. Meanwhile, upon hearing of Baoning’s impending marriage to Li Qian, the Emperor erupted in fury and immediately ordered an edict to dissolve the union.
Episode 12 Recap
Emperor Zhao Yi was furious upon learning of Commandery Princess Jia’nan and Li Qian’s marriage, immediately ordering an edict to annul the betrothal. His ministers cautioned him, explaining that the Grand Empress Dowager, to protect Commandery Princess Jia’nan’s reputation, had bypassed him and used a blank edict from the Founding Father.
They warned that annulling the marriage would not only disgrace the princess but also be a grave act of disrespect to the Founding Father, inviting severe criticism from the Censors. Undeterred, the Emperor recounted how the ministers' past advice led to Commandery Princess Jia’nan's near marriage to Yongqing and declared he would not let her marry Li Qian. Just then, the Grand Empress Dowager arrived. She confronted him, accusing him of trying to destroy her and Commandery Princess Jia’nan.
She revealed that Li Qian was instrumental in saving the princess from being a pawn to Yongqing and emphasized that the marriage was approved by both the late emperor and herself. She expressed her dying wish to see Commandery Princess Jia’nan happily married, threatening to die if her wish was not fulfilled. Overwhelmed, the Emperor relented, stating he would not dare defy her.
Meanwhile, the Archduke's Madam personally arrived in Bingzhou to accompany Commandery Princess Jia’nan, bringing lavish dowries from the Archduke and the Grand Empress Dowager. Commandery Princess Jia’nan was surprised by the sheer volume of gifts, which her aunt explained was still considered modest by the Grand Empress Dowager and the Archduke. She then invited her aunt to rest while she and Su Su would inventory the dowries.
Li Changqing’s wife, He Cuihua, was distraught upon learning from Li Lin that Li Changqing had spent two thousand taels of gold and ten thousand taels of silver, along with other luxurious expenses, for Li Qian’s wedding, following the customs of the wealthiest Southern families. She confronted Li Changqing, lamenting that they would be left penniless and that their daughter, Li Dongzhi, would suffer.
Li Changqing defended his decision, stating that a grand wedding for his eldest son marrying the Commandery Princess Jia’nan was essential for the family’s prestige and long-term prosperity, dismissing his wife’s concerns as shortsighted. He Cuihua, however, declared she would recoup the family’s losses from Commandery Princess Jia’nan’s dowries. Elsewhere, servants gossiped about Li Qian's success and Gao Miaorong's dashed hopes, prompting Li Lin to remind them of the family's rules against idle talk.
Li Qian visited the Archduke's Madam, bringing local specialties as gifts. Jiang Lyu initially tried to bar Li Qian, accusing him of flattery, but the Archduke's Madam allowed him in. Li Qian humbly thanked her for her efforts and expressed his gratitude for Commandery Princess Jia’nan marrying someone of his military background. Jiang Lyu, however, remained hostile, openly expressing his jealousy at Li Qian taking his cousin.
He challenged Li Qian to a duel, explaining that as Commandery Princess Jia’nan's elder cousin and acting in his father's stead, he needed to properly test her future husband. Li Qian accepted, proposing a bet where the loser would grant a wish. In the ensuing fight, Li Qian skillfully used unexpected tactics to win, earning Jiang Lyu's grudging respect, who conceded Li Qian was the craftiest man he had ever met.
Li Qian then revealed his wish: he wanted to practice drawing eyebrows on Jiang Lyu, whose eyebrows resembled Commandery Princess Jia’nan’s, so he could perfect the art for his wife after their marriage. Later, Li Qian secretly entered Commandery Princess Jia’nan's room through her window, presenting her with The Book of Supreme Weapons, acknowledging it was rightfully hers.
Commandery Princess Jia’nan playfully remarked that her greatest non-regret was slapping him that day, to which Li Qian declared his greatest non-regret was snatching her away. The Archduke's Madam then arrived, finding them together. She shared the Grand Empress Dowager’s heartfelt wish for Commandery Princess Jia’nan to live a life of joy and freedom, unlike their elders who had to live cautiously. She then led Li Qian and Commandery Princess Jia’nan to the memorial tablets of Commandery Princess Jia’nan's parents.
There, Li Qian solemnly pledged his lifelong love, protection, and respect for Commandery Princess Jia’nan, promising to build a home with her, have children, honor their elders, and grow old together. On the wedding day, Li Qian, splendid in his festive robes, rode a tall horse to fetch his bride. Before Commandery Princess Jia’nan left, a Mrs. Hu affectionately placed a hairpin in her hair.
Then, the Archduke's Madam advised her to live harmoniously with her in-laws, but to always confide in her maternal family if she ever faced hardship, assuring her of their unwavering support. With tears in her eyes, Commandery Princess Jia’nan bid farewell to her aunt and Su Su.
Jiang Lyu, carrying Commandery Princess Jia’nan on his back, carefully brought her out of the mansion, wishing her a lifetime of happiness with Li Qian, and formally entrusted her to Li Qian, imploring him to cherish her. Li Qian vowed that from that day forward, Commandery Princess Jia’nan would be his life.
Following a local Jinxi custom, gunny bags were laid from the palanquin to the bridal chamber, ensuring the bride’s feet did not touch the ground, symbolizing a smooth and prosperous journey ahead. Li Qian promised to walk this path with Commandery Princess Jia’nan for the rest of their lives.
Inside Li Mansion, the wedding ceremony commenced with traditional bows to heaven and earth, to ancestors for their blessings, to parents for their nurture, and finally, a marital bow between the couple, wishing them a lifetime of love and togetherness. After the crossed-cupped wine, Li Qian was spirited away by his friends for celebratory drinks.
Meanwhile, Gao Miaorong, still resentful over Li Qian’s marriage, refused to change into festive attire, believing her fate was not set and she should continue fighting for what she desired, drawing inspiration from Li Qian’s own words about mastering one's destiny.
At the mansion entrance, Li Changqing greeted various guests, including Mr. Hu, the Water Transport Commissioner, who praised the Li family’s good fortune, and Jin Xiao, Li Qian’s close friend, who was also recently transferred back to Jinxi by the Grand Empress Dowager. Cai Shuang, Officer Accountant of the army, arrived with a gift but was initially turned away by the guards for not having an invitation.
Li Lin intervened, vouching for Cai Shuang and explaining that many wished to attend to share in the good fortune, and allowed him entry. During the banquet, He Cuihua, feeling proud of her new daughter-in-law, engaged in conversation with other prominent ladies.
When Madam Zhuang subtly mocked Li Dongzhi’s upbringing in the military and lack of feminine grace, implying it would be hard for her to marry, He Cuihua cleverly retorted, hinting that Madam Zhuang's daughter, Furong, would only attract suitors interested in her family’s wealth. Later, He Cuihua declared that she needed to end the banquet early to rest, as her "noble daughter-in-law" would be eagerly waiting to pay respects to her the next morning.
That night, a seemingly inebriated Li Qian stumbled into the bridal chamber, playfully pursuing Commandery Princess Jia’nan. She tried to invoke the Grand Empress Dowager’s oral instructions about her fragile health to avoid consummating the marriage. Li Qian then revealed that he was not truly drunk and was already aware of her residual poison from Abbot Hongyi at Mount Wutai.
He assured her that as her husband for life, he would never do anything to harm her health and had no intention of being intimate until she fully recovered. He simply wanted to share their bridal bed, to keep her company in an unfamiliar place. Reassured, Commandery Princess Jia’nan playfully wrestled with him before Su Su, waiting outside, reminded them of Commandery Princess Jia’nan's health and extinguished the candles, leaving them to their rest.
The next morning, as Commandery Princess Jia’nan prepared for the day, Li Qian tried to paint her eyebrows but stopped, declaring her natural beauty needed no enhancement. He then placed his late mother’s hairpin in her hair and recounted the story of his parents' love and the tragic destruction of his clan by the Yongqing State.
He confided in her his two lifelong aspirations: to repel Yongqing and serve the court, and to find those responsible for the massacre of his family to exact vengeance. Later, Commandery Princess Jia’nan and Li Qian paid their respects to his late mother and to Li Changqing, introducing Commandery Princess Jia’nan to other family members, including Li Lin, who managed household affairs, and Gao Miaorong, who had grown up with Li Qian and Li Lin.
Li Qian also mentioned his younger sister, Li Dongzhi, who was away on military duties. Li Changqing then announced that Commandery Princess Jia’nan, as the new mistress of the house, should take over its management from He Cuihua. However, He Cuihua resisted, arguing it was too soon. Gao Miaorong and Li Lin also suggested a gradual handover, citing Commandery Princess Jia’nan’s unfamiliarity with the household and the ongoing spring plowing season.
Commandery Princess Jia’nan gracefully agreed to postpone assuming the household duties. Afterwards, He Cuihua and Gao Miaorong marveled at the immense wealth of Commandery Princess Jia’nan’s dowry, with He Cuihua remarking that since Commandery Princess Jia’nan was now part of the family, her dowries were essentially theirs too.
Episode 13 Recap
Qingke heard from the servants that Madam He came from a humble family. When Master Li Changqing was in dire straits, he remarried her, but she remained covetous of small gains. Qingke noted that the dowry Commandery Princess Jia'nan brought was a tempting bait, and Madam He would surely want to pocket it.
Jia'nan, however, was not worried, believing her father-in-law, Li Changqing, was a sensible man who would not defame himself for a few dowries, especially in Bingzhou where everyone would know. She asserted that Li Changqing, as the master of the family, would prevent Madam He from doing such a foolish thing. To ensure this, Jia'nan instructed Qingke to gather the antiques and paintings not listed in her dowry, and send them to Li Changqing.
She explained it was a gift from her to her father-in-law, ensuring fairness since Madam He had taken some gifts. When Li Changqing received the list of unlisted items, he realized Jia'nan's cleverness. He then confronted Madam He, addressing her as "He Cuihua" and calling her a "silly wife" for coveting their daughter-in-law's dowry and disgracing the Li family. Madam He argued back, accusing him of spending too much on Jia'nan and worrying about their daughter Dongdong's future dowry.
Li Changqing threatened to divorce her if she didn't return everything immediately, to which Madam He retorted that she might divorce him first. Gao Miaorong observed Li Changqing leaving in a rage and later learned the cause from Madam He's complaints. Madam He lamented that she had only picked a few items from Jia'nan's jewelry box but was severely scolded.
Gao Miaorong subtly fanned the flames, questioning how Li Changqing would have known about the unlisted items without Jia'nan's deliberate action. Madam He realized Jia'nan's shrewdness and vowed to show her who the real hostess of the family was. Gao Miaorong then advised Madam He to calm down, pointing out that Li Changqing, as a man, wouldn't care about trifles, and that Jia'nan had not complained, while Madam He often made a scene.
Madam He agreed to be more careful in dealing with the "cunning girl." Later, a servant announced that Madam He was unwell and would not attend the family dinner in the East Courtyard. Li Qian, understanding the situation, dismissed the servant, instructing the kitchen to prepare a simple meal for him and Jia'nan. He comforted Jia'nan, acknowledging his mother's greedy nature and that Jia'nan was right to remind her, expecting Madam He's anger to subside soon.
Jia'nan, feigning unfamiliarity with Bingzhou, asked Li Qian to buy a gift for his mother on her behalf, to which he playfully agreed. Li Qian then visited Dong’s Trading House, the largest firm in Bingzhou and an Imperial merchant, to purchase a face-washing cream made from natural hydromica. The shopkeeper recognized him and, despite the item usually being reserved for the Imperial Family, offered him two jars.
That evening, Li Qian presented Jia'nan with a box containing all his property: banknotes and title deeds. He jokingly said he now had nothing left, only wanting to make a living and be by her side. Jia'nan appreciated his gesture, affirming that money was external and she would not let it cause conflict with his mother. She emphasized that as husband and wife, they were one, and she would embrace his family with tolerance.
Jia'nan then skillfully repaired a broken keepsake from Li Qian's deceased mother, which he had cherished but couldn't bring himself to throw away. Li Qian was overjoyed by her dexterity, praising her as "nimble-fingered." Meanwhile, Zhao Xiao, heartbroken over Jia'nan's marriage to Li Qian, drowned his sorrows in drink. His father, Marquis Jinghai, confronted him, chastising him for being so distraught over a woman and forgetting his responsibilities as a marquis's son.
Zhao Xiao, however, declared he cared nothing for "great cause," only for the family happiness he never had, blaming his father for his mother's lonely death. Angered by his son's words, Marquis Jinghai called him a "worthless boy." Zhao Xiao then resolved to go to the palace and request Emperor Zhao Yi for a transfer to the Jinxi Border Battalion. Separately, Su Su sought medical attention for stomach discomfort.
The physician diagnosed her with severe coldness, characterized by cold hands, shallow sleep, and an intermittent pulse, indicating a severe condition that would make conception difficult. The physician suggested an ancient medicated bath treatment, warning it would be strenuous and exhausting. Despite this, Su Su agreed, determined to try it. Outside the pharmacy, she saw Cao Xuan happily playing with children, which solidified her resolve, but she decided to conceal her condition from him.
After enduring the painful medicated bath, Su Su was exhausted and had no appetite at dinner, feigning a cold to retreat to her room. Cao Xuan noticed red marks on her arms and the lingering smell of herbs, prompting him to confront her. Su Su confessed her coldness, her difficulty conceiving, and the painful treatment, believing the suffering was worth it if she could have a child for the Cao family, knowing his fondness for children.
Cao Xuan, pained by her sacrifice, assured her that children were not important and he would be content with just her, stating, "in my heart, you’re more important than children." Back in the capital, Empress Han Tongxin, observing a maid being overly familiar with Emperor Zhao Yi, ordered the maid to be clubbed to death for seducing the Emperor. Zhao Yi, though displeased, did not intervene but later questioned if she truly believed he wouldn't dethrone her.
Han Tongxin expressed her desire for his love, not just the power and titles he bestowed upon her. Zhao Yi, in turn, questioned if she truly loved him or the power. Han Tongxin accused him of preferring maids who resembled Jia'nan and pointed out that Jia'nan had chosen Li Qian over him, the "nine-five supreme," further infuriating Zhao Yi, who then banished her from his sight.
Shortly after, Zhao Xiao met with Zhao Yi, formally requesting his transfer to Jinxi to defend against Yongqing State, expressing guilt for his past inaction. He then asserted that Commandery Princess Jia'nan had been "deceived" into marrying Li Qian, and if she could be made sensible, he would bring her back to the capital "at whatever cost." Zhao Yi, still harboring desires for Jia'nan, readily approved Zhao Xiao's request and instructed him to deliver an imperial edict to Li Qian.
Zhao Xiao arrived at the Li mansion to announce the imperial edict, appointing Li Qian as Supervisorate of Community Self-defense, requiring him to report to the Suibian Brigade within three days. Zhao Xiao also mentioned his own transfer there. Li Qian accepted the decree. Li Changqing expressed his anger to Li Qian, believing Zhao Yi was intentionally trying to separate him from Jia'nan, as she was originally intended to be the Empress.
Li Qian, however, declared his intention to forge his own future, rather than relying on his father's influence or his status as the Commandery Princess's husband. He also revealed his plan to use this opportunity to investigate the massacre of the Li Village. Li Changqing, proud of his son's ambition, pledged to safeguard their home front so Li Qian could focus on his career.
That night, Qingke led Li Qian to the courtyard where Jia'nan, dressed in a red gown, gracefully danced under the moon. Li Qian, captivated, praised her as a "fairy." They shared a poignant moment, both reluctant to part. The next morning, Li Qian departed, seen off by Jia'nan and the Li family. Alone in the mansion, Jia'nan soon found herself bored and deeply missed Li Qian. During this time, Jia'nan engrossed herself in studying the 'Divine Ghost Weapon Maps.'
Unexpectedly, Li Qian made a brief return to the mansion, taking advantage of a short break from his military duties. Their reunion, though short (only half an hour), was poignant. Before he left, Li Qian took her sachet as a keepsake. Jia'nan, in turn, added a lock of her hair to it, instructing him to keep it safe.
Qingke complained about the undisciplined and inattentive servants of the Li mansion, suggesting their sloppiness had prompted Madam He to hand over household duties to Jia'nan. Jia'nan, however, advised Qingke to be discreet and not to quarrel with the servants, but to quietly observe and record their mistakes, as they were new to the household.
Unbeknownst to them, Gao Miaorong had been subtly undermining Jia'nan's authority, reassuring Nanny Tian, who felt disrespected by Qingke, with flattery and a monthly payment, solidifying her loyalty. Upon arriving at the Suibian Brigade, Li Qian was met by Jin Xiao, who warned him about Zhao Xiao, his newly appointed superior, who had just taken office. Zhao Xiao immediately declared his hostility, telling Li Qian, "As long as I’m here, you’ll never be successful."
Jin Xiao noted Zhao Xiao's "unfriendly intent." Later, while Jia'nan and Qingke were shopping, they "coincidentally" encountered Zhao Xiao, who invited Jia'nan to walk with him. Jia'nan politely declined, suggesting she and Li Qian could show him around when Li Qian was on leave. Zhao Xiao, regretting missing her wedding, presented her with his personal jade pendant as a wedding gift. Despite Jia'nan's protests, Zhao Xiao insisted, pressing the pendant into her hand before abruptly leaving.
This entire interaction was witnessed by Gao Miaorong and her maid. Back at the military camp, Li Qian diligently trained. Shao Jiang of the Xuanjia Battalion, harboring jealousy towards Li Qian, instigated a fight between the Huben and Xuanjia Battalions, causing a large-scale brawl that displeased Mr. Jin. Li Qian stepped forward, accepting responsibility and offering to take the punishment alongside the other soldiers.
Mr. Jin ordered all involved to receive twenty floggings and three days of confinement, announcing the punishment to the entire army. After the flogging, Shao Jiang, still incensed, threw Li Qian's belongings out of his quarters. He publicly insulted Li Qian's common origins, claiming he was unworthy to associate with the "distinguished clans" of Huben Battalion and belonged instead with the "poor people" of Xuanjia Battalion.
Shao Jiang then picked up Jia'nan's sachet, remarking on its "good smell" and that he had never encountered such a scent on other women. Enraged by the insult and the violation of his wife's personal item, Li Qian attacked Shao Jiang. Zhao Xiao seized this opportunity, declaring Li Qian could no longer remain in Huben Battalion and transferred him to Xuanjia Battalion, the vanguard army.
He warned Li Qian that Xuanjia soldiers lived dangerous lives, fighting against Yongqing State, and he should be prepared to die at any moment. Soon after, Yun Lin, a Xuanjia soldier, challenged Li Qian to a duel. Li Qian accepted, ultimately winning the contest and earning Yun Lin's respect.
Episode 14 Recap
At the Bingzhou Government Office, Mr. Hu stopped Li Changqing, showering him with compliments, expressing admiration for Li Changqing’s smooth career and his reputation as an official who prioritizes the people. Mr. Hu then assigned Li Changqing the responsibility of organizing the upcoming God of Local Land’s Birthday festivities before swiftly departing. Li Qian questioned his father whether he was forced into this task by Hu Yiliang, but Li Changqing asserted that no one could coerce him.
He explained that with Princess Jiang Baoning entering their family, the Li family’s prominence was growing, attracting envy. He saw the festival as an opportunity to perform charitable deeds, thereby silencing public criticism. He Cuihua, however, complained about the unnecessary expenses. Gao Miaorong added that the grand wedding had already depleted the family’s savings, and sponsoring the event alone would necessitate selling off some property. He Cuihua vehemently agreed, unwilling to part with family assets.
Jiang Baoning inquired if previous such events had ever brought genuine credit to the Li family. Li Qian responded that ordinary people only recognized the Li family’s wealth, while all praise for clean governance and public service went to the Prefect. Li Changqing then vented his frustration at Li Qian, blaming him for devising the scheme that led to his amnesty by the court, and how he was now constantly manipulated by "that old fox."
He revealed to Jiang Baoning that during a bandit suppression campaign, Li Qian secretly collaborated with Hu Yiliang, staging a capture where Li Qian pretended to be a hostage. To ensure his son’s safety, Li Changqing was compelled to accept the imperial amnesty. Li Qian defended his actions, stating that becoming an official was a wise decision and a better path for the Li family than remaining bandits.
Gao Miaorong supported Li Qian, arguing that his ambition and talent would have been wasted had he stayed in the mountains. Despite the financial strain, Li Changqing insisted the family must bear the cost. He Cuihua then suggested using Jiang Baoning’s substantial dowry to fund the event, but both Li Changqing and Li Qian strongly objected, citing concerns about their reputation.
Jiang Baoning offered an alternative, asking Li Changqing for a list of Bingzhou’s prominent merchants and wealthy households, assuring them she would handle the fundraising. That evening, Li Qian, worried about Jiang Baoning toiling late into the night over family matters, insisted on keeping her company. Jiang Baoning explained her strategy: to identify wealthy individuals from the list who would be willing to contribute.
She remarked on how Hu Yiliang, despite his cunning, genuinely worked for the people, and her father-in-law accepted the task to improve the family's image after their extravagant wedding. She believed there were many in Bingzhou’s business community who desired to gain reputation or act benevolently, and with the right opportunity, fundraising would not be difficult. Meanwhile, a shrewd businesswoman named Dong Shanhu had recently acquired a garden at a fraction of its market price, demonstrating her sharp business acumen.
The next day, Dong Shanhu visited Jiang Baoning, bringing fresh, out-of-season fruits and vegetables. Jiang Baoning admired her enterprise and suggested Dong Shanhu expand her produce business to the capital, even offering her connections in the palace to facilitate this. Dong Shanhu was delighted by the prospect, acknowledging that without Commander Li’s introduction, she wouldn't have even met the Princess.
Li Qian later shared more details about Dong Shanhu, noting her impressive business history and widespread influence, remarking that Jinxi indeed had many remarkable women in commerce. Jiang Baoning then visited Dong Shanhu’s shop, observing that all her employees were women who were either homeless or war orphans, provided a livelihood by Dong Shanhu. Deeply impressed by her compassion, Jiang Baoning praised Dong Shanhu for setting a good example.
She then confided her predicament regarding the God of Local Land’s Birthday. Dong Shanhu, without hesitation, pledged her full support. Li Changqing was overjoyed when he learned Jiang Baoning had secured the funding. Gao Miaorong, however, warned him to be wary, suggesting Dong Shanhu likely had ulterior motives. Jiang Baoning calmly dismissed her concerns, stating that both parties had something to gain: Dong Shanhu could enhance her brand reputation, and the Li family could do good for the people.
It was a mutually beneficial arrangement. The God of Local Land’s Birthday festival commenced as planned, meticulously organized by Dong Shanhu. The Cuju match drew a large crowd, with teams comprising Li Qian’s military comrades and skilled civilians. As Jiang Baoning and Li Qian exchanged notes (Li Qian's first note asking, 'Baoning, is your husband courageous?' , followed by Jiang Baoning's reply expressing her enjoyment of the game and curiosity about his confidence in winning), Zhao Xiao grew visibly jealous.
He stepped onto the field to challenge Li Qian directly, accusing him of constantly competing and vowing to reclaim what he believed Li Qian had taken from him. Li Qian retorted that he only claimed what was rightfully his, and if something was never meant for Zhao Xiao, his efforts would be in vain. Li Qian then urged his team to unleash their full potential, stating that they shouldn't lose face for the Xuanjia Camp.
Meanwhile, Madam Zhuang, an influential figure due to her brother-in-law’s connection to Chief Councilor Wang, openly gossiped at the festival. She mocked Gao Miaorong for not having married into the Li family and criticized Li Dongzhi's upbringing, stating it made He Cuihua ashamed to appear.
She then made disparaging remarks about Jiang Baoning, commenting that Baoning's previous engagement to the Son of Marquis Jinghai was canceled, speculating that Baoning had fallen out of favor with the Emperor and was thus forced to marry down to the Li family. She further criticized Jiang Baoning’s “loose morals” for allowing Zhao Xiao’s audacious behavior.
Li Qian swiftly intervened, reminding Madam Zhuang that Jiang Baoning was the Grand Empress Dowager’s beloved and warning that such gossip could bring disaster upon the Zhuang family, urging her to be discreet. Later, He Cuihua, influenced by rumors, confronted Jiang Baoning, accusing her of having an inappropriate relationship with another man and accepting a love token. Jiang Baoning denied the accusation, even inviting He Cuihua to search her room.
He Cuihua promptly led a group to the West Courtyard and indeed found a jade pendant that Zhao Xiao had forcibly given to Jiang Baoning. Just as He Cuihua demanded an explanation, Li Qian arrived. He deftly diffused the situation by claiming the jade pendant was a wedding gift from Zhao Xiao to both him and Jiang Baoning, and that he had agreed to keep it for good luck.
He then sternly warned He Cuihua that slandering a Princess could have severe consequences, even beyond his father’s intervention. He then issued a strict order that, from that moment on, no one was permitted to enter the West Courtyard without Jiang Baoning’s explicit permission. After everyone had left, Li Qian, still feeling a pang of jealousy, needed comforting. Jiang Baoning apologized for forgetting about the pendant, explaining Zhao Xiao had thrust it upon her.
Li Qian admitted his anger stemmed from her not telling him sooner, feeling he had failed to protect her. Jiang Baoning reassured him that all she needed was his trust. Elsewhere, Prince Qing Tai, fueled by a desire for revenge against Li Qian, had finalized his plans for war. With his father, the King, gravely ill, Qing Tai proclaimed himself the ultimate authority and ordered his troops to march in two days, vowing to repay Li Qian's humiliation with interest.
Back at the Li mansion, news arrived that a border emergency had arisen, and alarmingly, Li Changqing's military report was missing from his study. Li Changqing threatened to imprison everyone if the culprit wasn't found. Gao Miaorong suggested that common servants were unlikely to steal such a document, as they couldn't even read it.
She then subtly redirected suspicion towards Jiang Baoning, implying that the Princess's recent frequent visits to Li Changqing's study, coupled with the Emperor's suspicious nature and Bingzhou's strategic importance, could mean she was an imperial spy. Jiang Baoning, who had just arrived, sharply advised Gao Miaorong to weigh her words carefully. She then suggested to Li Changqing that he investigate the actual state of affairs within the mansion, noting that conversations in his study were being leaked.
Qingke proceeded to read a long list of various servants' derelictions of duty, including a stable chief trespassing into the main house and flirting, and a gardener neglecting her duties. Jiang Baoning then asserted that just as a nation has laws, a household must have strict rules, emphasizing that the current chaos, including the easy theft of official documents, was a result of poor management.
She pointed out that Gao Miaorong, who had previously managed the household, was responsible for the lax discipline. He Cuihua and Li Changqing began arguing about who was to blame. Jiang Baoning intervened, promising to resolve the matter and uncover the truth within three days, much to Li Changqing's satisfaction. Shortly after, Li Dongzhi, who had been away, returned home to find Jiang Baoning attempting to discipline Nanny Tian, her former wet nurse.
Nanny Tian immediately pleaded for Li Dongzhi's help, claiming Jiang Baoning was unfairly persecuting her. Li Dongzhi confronted Jiang Baoning, accusing her of abusing her authority. Gao Miaorong tried to mediate, reminding Li Dongzhi to be respectful towards the Princess, but Li Dongzhi maintained that even a Princess should not oppress innocent people.
Jiang Baoning, undeterred, brought Nanny Tian before Li Changqing, presenting evidence from her investigation: Nanny Tian was a heavy gambler, and despite her meager maid's salary, records from the gambling house showed large sums of money. Jiang Baoning argued that Nanny Tian, being illiterate, could not have amassed such wealth through mere luck at gambling, urging her to confess.
He Cuihua, however, jumped to Nanny Tian’s defense, suggesting she might have simply been lucky and arguing against such a harsh judgment, especially for an elderly wet nurse, for the sake of the Li family's reputation. Jiang Baoning sternly countered that Li Changqing's career and the family's future were at stake, asking if He Cuihua would truly prioritize minor personal feelings over such critical matters. Jiang Baoning then announced she had a witness, and instructed Xiaoman to bring the person in.
Episode 15 Recap
Baoning confronted Nanny Tian about her theft, who remained speechless. Baoning then called in Jiaoxing, Nanny Tian's foster daughter. Jiaoxing revealed Nanny Tian had adopted her and treated her kindly only to exploit her. Nanny Tian, addicted to gambling and deeply in debt, first forced Jiaoxing to sell Li Dongzhi's valuables. When that wasn't enough, she coerced Jiaoxing into stealing official documents from Li Changqing's study for money, threatening to marry her to her "retarded son" if she refused.
When Baoning attempted to press Nanny Tian for further confessions, Gao Miaorong, fearing exposure, subtly prompted He Cuihua. He Cuihua then feigned extreme anger, denouncing Nanny Tian as an "unconscionable woman" and swiftly ordering her removal, effectively silencing her before she could reveal anything more. Baoning could only acquiesce.
Following this, Li Changqing, disappointed with Gao Miaorong's poor management, revoked her authority over household affairs and entrusted it to Baoning, emphasizing the need to rectify the Li family's conduct and restore order. Gao Miaorong, resentful of losing her authority, confronted Baoning, sarcastically complimenting her "impressive" tactics in seizing control and asking if Baoning would eventually expel her, just like Nanny Tian.
Baoning warned Gao Miaorong to stop crossing the line, telling her that her future in the household depended on her own actions and earned respect. Li Qian, who overheard the exchange, was furious at Gao Miaorong's disrespectful demeanor towards his wife.
Despite Gao Miaorong's attempts to explain, claiming Baoning was constantly targeting her, Li Qian accused her of venting her frustration after her attempts to instigate trouble failed, expressing his profound disappointment in her true nature, which he admitted he had never seen clearly before. A tearful Gao Miaorong then questioned if she was now "unbearable" in his eyes.
When Li Lin tried to comfort her, she pushed him away, lamenting that Li Qian now had a woman he wanted to protect and was "bewitched" by Baoning, but vowed he would eventually realize she was the most important woman in his life. Li Qian discussed his sister, Li Dongzhi, with Baoning, noting her stubborn nature and the need for her to understand right from wrong to avoid being taken advantage of. Li Qian then had Li Dongzhi brought in.
Li Dongzhi tearfully apologized to Baoning for her past rudeness. Baoning graciously forgave her, calling her a "heroine" who had simply been misled, and even expressing understanding for her preference for men's clothing. Li Dongzhi was overjoyed, feeling she had found a true confidante. The two women quickly bonded, playfully "badmouthing" Li Qian, with Li Dongzhi describing him as headstrong and possessive, always getting what he wanted. Baoning even jokingly agreed that she had been "abducted."
Li Qian, overhearing their lighthearted conversation, feigned anger and playfully chased Li Dongzhi out of the room, before returning to share a fond laugh with Baoning. To better manage the Li mansion, Baoning, with Shanhu's assistance, brought in a new group of carefully selected servants. Baoning established new, strict family rules, forbidding theft, fighting, private drinking, and gambling, while promoting accountability.
She also introduced incentives: double wages for five years of service and freedom from servitude for ten years of diligent and loyal service. Li Changqing was highly impressed with Baoning's effective management. Meanwhile, Gao Miaorong, having lost her administrative power and illicit income (which she and He Cuihua had previously gained from affairs like Nanny Tian's theft), secretly gave He Cuihua an increased "revenue from usury," explaining it included her personal offering.
He Cuihua complained that Baoning’s control of the household finances had cut off their illegal earnings, and that Li Changqing now praised Baoning's intelligence while calling He Cuihua foolish. Gao Miaorong assured He Cuihua that she had other, more significant ways to make money for the family. Later, Gao Miaorong’s uncle confronted her about colluding with servants in private usury, urging her to stop before Li Changqing discovered it and expelled her.
Gao Miaorong, however, defended her actions, claiming they were "for the Li family's good," and vehemently denied being jealous of Baoning, asserting that Li Qian's talents were too vast for Bingzhou and promising to prove her value.
Subsequently, Gao Miaorong approached Li Lin, subtly manipulating him by highlighting his position as the eldest son, yet being relegated to managing chores, and provoked him to consider making a plan for his own future, implicitly suggesting the illegal money house as a means to achieve wealth. He Cuihua furiously scolded Li Dongzhi for flying a kite on the roof, threatening her until Li Dongzhi fled the mansion.
Meanwhile, Li Lin met with his friend Cai Shuang, whom he had previously helped. Li Lin proposed a "lucrative business": investing military pay into an illegal money house to "make money from money." He asked Cai Shuang, who managed military finances, to facilitate this, promising Cai Shuang "uncountable silver" and a bright future. Although Cai Shuang was initially hesitant about using military funds, he ultimately agreed.
Soon after, Gao Miaorong delivered 20,000 taels to the madam running the illegal money house. The madam was surprised by the large sum, as her business typically handled smaller amounts for ladies. Gao Miaorong promised more money would follow and, when the madam expressed hesitation, threatened to take her business to the Dong family, securing the madam's acceptance. Later, Li Dongzhi, while wandering the streets, encountered Shanhu, who was on her way to inspect the Qinfang Pavilion, a well-known brothel.
Despite Shanhu's concerns about He Cuihua's reaction, Li Dongzhi, eager to experience the world, insisted on accompanying her. At the Qinfang Pavilion, Li Dongzhi, still dressed in male attire, immediately drew the attention of the courtesans, who surrounded her. Qing An, a young man observing her discomfort, stepped in to help her. He then playfully encouraged her to flirt with one of the courtesans, which inadvertently provoked a possessive patron.
Qing An and Li Dongzhi quickly fought off the patron's men and fled, eventually finding refuge in a bustling bathhouse. Inside, Qing An light-heartedly invited Li Dongzhi to join him for a bath. Startled and embarrassed, Li Dongzhi quickly made an excuse about an injury and fled, with Qing An following close behind. They later sat by a river, drinking and conversing.
Qing An introduced himself as a merchant who traveled between Yongqing and Mu'an, explaining his philosophy of avoiding marriage in turbulent times, viewing material wealth and even ancestral worship as fleeting. Li Dongzhi found herself agreeing wholeheartedly, confiding that her mother constantly pressured her to marry, but she felt too young and had important things to accomplish. She expressed fears that marriage would "tie her down."
Qing An reassured her, asserting that men should never be confined by marriage, echoing her sentiments. Later that evening, Li Qian took Baoning out for a rare stroll through a bustling night market, explaining the tradition of releasing river lanterns, which fishermen used to pray for safe passage. Touched by the custom, Baoning launched a lantern, wishing for peace and an end to all warfare in Mu’an State.
Li Qian then released his own lantern, making a heartfelt wish for "long-lasting happiness" with his "beloved" and to "never be separated." Baoning received an invitation to Dong Old Madam's birthday celebration. Although initially hesitant, she decided to attend out of gratitude for Shanhu's help.
He Cuihua, disliking social events, requested Baoning to take Li Dongzhi, hoping it would be an opportunity to find her a suitable husband, a suggestion Li Qian supported, light-heartedly remarking that Li Dongzhi could also protect Baoning. He Cuihua resorted to emotional blackmail, threatening to "die" if Li Dongzhi refused to attend and change into female attire. Li Dongzhi reluctantly agreed.
He Cuihua then lovingly dressed her daughter, using royal cosmetics and showering her with compliments, hoping to secure a good match. At the banquet, Zhuang Furong openly mocked Li Dongzhi's unladylike walk and suggested she was desperately seeking a husband. Li Dongzhi, however, retorted sharply, comparing Zhuang Furong unfavorably to the graceful courtesans of Qinfang Pavilion, praising their beauty and musical talent over Zhuang Furong's. Enraged, Zhuang Furong pushed Li Dongzhi into a pond.
Qing An, who was also attending the banquet, immediately rescued Li Dongzhi from the water, recognizing her and realizing she was, in fact, a woman. Baoning, upon seeing a drenched Li Dongzhi, instantly understood what had transpired and confronted Madam Zhuang, demanding an explanation and apology.
Madam Zhuang initially tried to downplay the incident as a "girls' bicker" with shared fault, but Baoning, standing firm, emphasized the Li family's reputation for integrity and subtly warned against rumors that could tarnish Zhuang Furong's name. When Madam Zhuang remained uncooperative, Baoning directly challenged Zhuang Furong, who defiantly denied any wrongdoing and showed disrespect to Baoning.
This prompted Madam Zhuang to slap her own daughter, forcing Zhuang Furong to kneel and offer a sincere apology to Baoning, and subsequently to Li Dongzhi. Later that evening, back home, Li Qian heard about the day's events. He embraced Baoning, praising her courageous defense of his sister. Late that night, Li Qian received urgent military intelligence: King Qing was critically ill, and Qing Tai had seized military power, amassing a large army to march south.
Li Qian immediately rushed back to the military camp. Emperor Zhao Yi, informed of the situation, defiantly declared his intention to fight and win against Yongqing State, disregarding his ministers' advice that it was "not a good time to come into the war." He ordered the Border Battalion to "hit the enemies hard."
General Jin then appointed Li Qian as the first vanguard to lead the Xuanjia Battalion to the front, and Zhao Xiao also requested to join, with his Huben Battalion granted permission. Zhao Xiao, however, made it clear that he intended to defeat Li Qian "in a fair manner" on the battlefield. Li Qian then presented his battle strategy: he anticipated Qing Tai's troops would reach Mount Dayanshan, a narrow and defensible pass, within three days.
His plan involved leading 500 cavalry in a night raid, then feigning a retreat to lure the enemy into the valley. There, Yun Lin's forces, positioned on the mountaintop, would use rocks and arrows to decimate the enemy's advance troops and deplete their provisions until General Jin's main army could arrive and encircle them. Zhao Xiao immediately dismissed Li Qian's strategy as "constrained," deeming him "over-optimistic" to challenge Yongqing's formidable cavalry with only 500 men.
Instead, Zhao Xiao proposed a direct confrontation using infantry, which he believed was superior in that terrain. He vowed to first secure the supply lines, then deploy heavy armor and the Xuanjia Battalion in a "specific formation."
Despite a subordinate's warning against engaging Yongqing in a "long haul" war at the outset, Zhao Xiao remained stubborn, asserting his authority by declaring his plan a "military order" and threatening "military penalty" for anyone who dared to disobey, thereby forcing Li Qian to comply.
Episode 16 Recap
Mu'an's provisions army suffered heavy casualties in an ambush by Yongqing's forces. Unwilling to accept this defeat, Zhao Xiao impulsively led his troops on a night raid against Yongqing. Learning that Zhao Xiao had already departed half an hour ago, Supervisor Li Qian, who was busy tending to his wounded soldiers, immediately recognized the danger.
He dispatched a messenger to request reinforcements from Mr. Jin, then rallied his own men, stating that he could not stand by while their soldiers faced death and that he had to attempt a rescue, no matter how slim the chances. As Li Qian arrived, he found Zhao Xiao’s forces decimated and Zhao Xiao himself surrounded by Yongqing soldiers. Despite Zhao Xiao’s defiant declaration that he would not thank him, Li Qian fought bravely alongside him.
During the intense battle, General Yun Lin was shot and fell down a slope. Li Qian, in a desperate act to save Zhao Xiao, sustained multiple arrow wounds and eventually collapsed. Zhao Xiao, also gravely injured, then fell. Yongqing soldiers quickly moved to clear the battlefield, ensuring no survivors and taking all weapons, just as Mu'an's reinforcements were approaching.
Li Dongzhi rushed back to report the grim news: Mr. Jin’s reinforcements had arrived too late, and the Xuanjia Battalion had been completely wiped out. The news was devastating for the Li family, though Jia’nan had a premonition of bad things to come. Gao Miaorong immediately insisted that Li Qian, being a skilled warrior, must still be alive and pleaded with Uncle Li Changqing to send a thorough search of the battlefield.
Shortly after, General Yun Lin, a survivor of the Xuanjia Battalion, confirmed that while he miraculously escaped, he could not find the bodies of Supervisor Li Qian or Zhao Xiao on the battlefield, nor had they returned to the camp. Gao Miaorong, clinging to hope, pleaded with Uncle Li Changqing to send more men with her and Yun Lin to search every corner of the battlefield, promising to bring Li Qian back safely.
However, Jia’nan, after recovering from the initial shock, calmly asserted that Li Qian would never passively await death on the battlefield. Given that no body was found and he hadn't returned to camp, she speculated he must have gone to the safest, yet most dangerous, place: Yunyang, the capital of Yongqing. Gao Miaorong, distraught and critical of Jia’nan's seemingly cold composure, vehemently disagreed, accusing Jia’nan of not caring for Li Qian's safety and potentially wasting precious time.
Jia’nan, however, stood firm, explaining that as his wife, she understood and trusted him, and that tears wouldn't help. Li Changqing ultimately sided with Gao Miaorong's immediate proposal, instructing her and Yun Lin to take his men to search the battlefield. He tried to comfort Jia'nan by saying that his son was tough and wouldn't die easily. Meanwhile, the news reached the capital. Jinghai Hou was utterly distraught upon hearing that his son, Zhao Xiao, had supposedly died in Jinxi.
Refusing to believe it, he immediately dispatched Zhao Zhong to investigate the matter thoroughly and bring back definitive answers, dead or alive. Emperor Zhao Yi, furious at the military's incompetence, initially railed against his "useless" troops. However, upon learning that both Young Master Zhao Xiao and Commandery Prince Li Qian had "died on duty," he secretly gloated that he would no longer have rivals for Commandery Princess Jia’nan.
He publicly declared his intention to honor their sacrifices with generous posthumous rewards and, under the pretense of offering support, decided to recall Jia’nan to the capital. The Grand Empress Dowager, deeply concerned upon hearing the news, quickly sent her people to Bingzhou to verify the reports and bring Commandery Princess Jia’nan back to the palace immediately. Convinced that Li Qian was alive and in Yunyang, Jia’nan secretly departed the Li residence under the cover of night.
She was discovered by Li Dongzhi, who insisted on accompanying her to ensure her safety. The next morning, Eunuch Zhang arrived with the Grand Empress Dowager’s edict to escort Jia’nan back to the palace. Li Changqing and his wife were in a difficult position, unable to produce Jia’nan. Their maid, Qingke, quickly intervened, cleverly fabricating a story that Jia’nan was deeply ill from worry over Li Qian’s disappearance and wished only to remain at the Li residence awaiting his return.
Eunuch Zhang, taking pity on Jia’nan’s supposed distress and not wanting to further upset the Grand Empress Dowager, accepted the lie and returned to report that the Commandery Prince was not dead and Jia’nan was safe. Qingke, loyal to Jia’nan, affirmed her commitment to keep the truth from the palace and expressed her fervent hope for Jia’nan's safe return.
Jia’nan and Li Dongzhi successfully reached Yunyang and, by faking illness for Jia'nan while she was disguised as a male servant and appealing to the compassion of onlookers, they managed to slip past the city guards who were checking travel passes. Once inside, Li Dongzhi gathered information, learning that most injured soldiers were housed in the military supply area, a heavily guarded zone. Spotting a recruitment notice for the Weapon Battalion, Jia’nan, ever resourceful, devised a plan to infiltrate it.
Inside the Weapon Battalion, Jia’nan, using the alias Aning, observed Commander Siqin scolding a craftsman for producing faulty crossbows that could harm their own soldiers. Despite the craftsman's excuses about being rushed, Siqin was furious, especially when the man suggested sacrificing handymen to cover his mistakes. Seizing the opportunity, Jia’nan offered to fix the problem, on the condition that Siqin take her as an apprentice.
Intrigued by her courage and talent, Siqin agreed, much to the jealousy of other handymen like Rujia, who had served Siqin for years without such recognition. Jia’nan ingeniously modified the crossbows by deepening the flight groove, improving accuracy but reducing range, thus ensuring they would not be truly effective against Mu'an forces while still fulfilling the delivery quota. Impressed, Siqin formally accepted her as his apprentice.
As Jia’nan covertly searched for Li Qian, she remained unaware that Zhao Xiao was also in the Weapon Battalion, working as a handyman. The other handymen, resentful of Aning’s (Jia’nan's) rapid promotion and perceived idleness, conspired to teach him a lesson by putting a non-venomous sand snake in his room. Zhao Xiao, witnessing their scheme, intervened, saving the person from the snake, only to discover it was Jia’nan.
Surprised by her presence, Zhao Xiao questioned why Li Qian always had to be between them, wishing it could just be the two of them. He then admitted that Li Qian was still alive when he last saw him on the battlefield but they had become separated after he regained consciousness. Jia'nan, determined to find her husband, pressed Zhao Xiao for his help, which he promised to provide.
Meanwhile, Li Dongzhi, while purchasing food, coincidentally encountered Qing An, who was in Yunyang on a trade mission. Upon learning that Li Dongzhi was searching for someone, Qing An immediately offered his assistance. Together, they scoured the city, and then ventured outside its walls on horseback, with Qing An playfully helping Li Dongzhi, who was more skilled than he realized.
Despite not finding Li Qian, Li Dongzhi felt a sense of relief and happiness from Qing An's company, expressing her gratitude for his companionship. Jia’nan, having noted a strong medicinal scent on Zhao Xiao earlier, grew suspicious. She discreetly followed him later that night, leading her to a hidden room where she found a severely injured Li Qian, burning with fever.
Their emotional reunion was followed by a flashback revealing how Commander Siqin, while clearing the battlefield, had saved both Li Qian and Zhao Xiao, recognizing that they were too young to die. He had hidden their identities and brought them into the Weapon Battalion as handymen, warning Li Qian that his survival now depended on fate.
Back in the present, Li Qian, weakened, asked Jia'nan to promise to stay home and wait for him in the future, while she, in turn, asked him not to get so severely injured again. Overcome with anger at Li Qian's condition, Jia'nan confronted Zhao Xiao, accusing him of intentionally hiding Li Qian and neglecting his treatment, even implying he wished for Li Qian's death.
Zhao Xiao, hurt, retorted that if he wanted Li Qian dead, he wouldn't have carried him from the piles of corpses. Jia'nan then blamed Zhao Xiao's past tactical misjudgment for Li Qian's current state. Feeling completely dejected and believing he could do nothing right in Jia’nan’s eyes, Zhao Xiao left, heartbroken. Li Qian, ever understanding, comforted Jia’nan, explaining that their meager existence as handymen provided barely enough to survive, let alone afford expensive medicines.
He urged her not to blame Zhao Xiao, reassuring her that her presence alone was already healing him. Later, as Jia’nan attempted to feed Li Qian, she instructed Zhao Xiao to take a break from his handyman duties and focus on caring for his former rival. However, an accidental jostle from Zhao Xiao caused Li Qian pain, leading Jia’nan to send him out of the room, further fueling his resentment.
Determined to earn Jia’nan’s forgiveness and help Li Qian, Zhao Xiao ventured out at night to steal potent herbs from a local shop. He was caught and fled, only to run into Zhao Zhong, who had been sent by Jinghai Hou to find him. Relieved to see Zhao Xiao alive, Zhao Zhong confirmed that the city's defenses were now tightly sealed, making exit difficult.
Zhao Xiao, revealing that Commandery Princess Jia’nan was also in Yunyang and needed to leave, implored Zhao Zhong to secure travel passes for them. Returning with a bundle of high-quality herbs, Zhao Xiao sought Jia’nan’s forgiveness for his past deceptions. Jia’nan acknowledged his efforts, admitting that her harsh words earlier were born of frustration and concern for Li Qian. She then decided to find a physician to determine how to best use the stolen medicines, entrusting Zhao Xiao to stay and care for Li Qian in her absence.
Episode 17 Recap
The physician examined the herbs Zhao Xiao had acquired, discovering they were entirely unsuitable for Li Qian, being a mix of aphrodisiacs and miscarriage prevention drugs. He warned that Li Qian's severe injuries meant he was "likely to die" without proper medication. Commandery Princess Jia’nan, also known as Baoning, was deeply worried about Li Qian.
An apprentice of her master, Siqin, reported to Siqin that Baoning had been making frequent mistakes at work and seemed absent-minded, attributing it to her spending time with a handyman. Later that evening, Siqin followed Baoning and found her tending to Li Qian, where he deduced Li Qian was her husband.
Baoning, surprised Siqin knew she was a woman, confessed her identity and explained she had been searching for Li Qian after the war, now helpless as he lay severely wounded and in need of proper medical care. Siqin, acknowledging their current hiding spot was unsuitable for recuperation, offered to help and invited Li Qian, Baoning, and Zhao Xiao to his residence the following day.
The next day, Siqin brought Li Qian and the others to his home, presenting Li Qian as his distant nephew and arranging for a doctor. He candidly told Baoning he was helping her due to his appreciation for her talent, but he understood her ultimate goal was to be with her husband.
Siqin advised them that Yongqing State was not a safe place for them to stay long, and they should make plans to return to Mu'an State once Li Qian had recovered. Zhao Xiao thanked Siqin, but Siqin made it clear his help was solely for Baoning. Meanwhile, Second Prince Qing An led Li Dongzhi to a picturesque, secluded valley, which he called "Flower Dream," his mother's favorite place. Dongzhi was captivated by its beauty.
Qing An confided in her, revealing that his mother was the only one who truly cared for him when he was a child, and he hadn't experienced such genuine concern since her departure. He explained that his mother was from Mu'an State and had been saved and married by his father. However, his grandfather, disapproving of the union, forced his father to take a legitimate wife from Yongqing, who then gave birth to Qing Tai, the First Prince.
Dongzhi sympathized, realizing Qing An's mother must have led a difficult life. Qing An confirmed his mother had been heartbroken but never showed it, often bringing him to this valley. She vanished when he was young, and despite rumors of elopement, he refused to believe it, knowing her deep love for him and his father. He had been traveling extensively as a merchant, hoping to find her.
Dongzhi comforted him, promising to help in his search, believing his mother to be a gentle and kind woman. Deeply moved, Qing An presented Dongzhi with a ring, his parents' love token. Dongzhi initially mistook it for a "breaking up" gift, but Qing An clarified that in Yongqing custom, accepting such a token signified commitment. He confessed his love, declaring her no longer just a friend but "the girl I love," and asked her to try loving him.
Shy but touched, Dongzhi agreed, and they shared a kiss. Li Qian's condition improved significantly under the doctor's care. One evening, as he chatted with Siqin, he learned about the past era of harmony between Yongqing and Mu'an, during which trade flourished. Siqin recounted how the current King of Yongqing, then a Prince, had saved a woman from a burning Mu'an village on the border, nursing her for three months.
They fell in love, but due to "complicated" circumstances, they could not ultimately be together. Li Qian, young and idealistic, vowed he would never let himself fall into such a predicament. Later, Baoning discovered Li Qian drinking and, despite his feigned injury to appease her, was cross with him. Zhao Xiao, observing their tender moments, felt a pang of jealousy.
Siqin advised Zhao Xiao to "let it go" to avoid hurting himself, but Zhao Xiao admitted it was "easier said than done" to relinquish something he felt belonged to him. Li Dongzhi was overjoyed to see Li Qian, praising Baoning for successfully locating him. However, Li Qian noticed the Double-headed Eagle ring on Dongzhi's finger.
When he learned it was Qing An's parents' love token and that Qing An was a merchant who traveled between the two states, he was enraged. He vehemently forbade Dongzhi from seeing Qing An, declaring their relationship impossible. Dongzhi, incensed by his arbitrary command, retorted that he couldn't judge Qing An without knowing him, and then stormed off. Baoning questioned Li Qian's intense anger.
Li Qian then revealed that the perpetrators of the village massacre that claimed his mother's life were identifiable by their Double-headed Eagle flag. He suspected Qing An's clan was responsible and vowed to find the truth, promising "blood for blood" if they were indeed his enemies. Despite her brother's fury, Dongzhi, upset but resolute, affirmed her trust in Qing An, regardless of his origins.
At the outskirts of Yunyang, Gao Miaorong and Yun Lin waited, hoping to intercept Li Qian if he managed to leave the city, having witnessed the harsh measures enforced by First Prince Qing Tai against anyone suspicious without a pass. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiao successfully obtained a pass, but it was only valid for ""twelve hours"". Li Qian told Zhao Xiao that he had critical personal matters to attend to and could not leave yet.
He instructed Zhao Xiao to take Baoning and Dongzhi out of the city the next day without him, revealing that his "important matters" concerned avenging his mother's death and the extermination of his clan. Li Qian, without informing Baoning of his intentions, entrusted her safety to Zhao Xiao, threatening to "fight it out" with him if any harm came to her. Zhao Xiao, though harboring feelings for Baoning, promised to protect her.
First Prince Qing Tai, upon hearing of the King’s worsening illness and Second Prince Qing An's summons to the palace, grew suspicious. Fearing the King intended to pass the throne to Qing An, he vowed that such a transfer of power would "never" happen. Unaware of Li Qian's dangerous quest, Baoning prepared a celebratory meal for Siqin as a farewell, hoping for peace between the states so their paths might one day cross again.
Li Qian, having learned of Qing An's movements, followed him to the Yongqing King's palace. At the city gate, Baoning waited anxiously for Li Qian. Zhao Xiao, unable to persuade her to leave, finally disclosed Li Qian's mission to pursue his mother's killer. Dongzhi, whom Li Qian also intended to send with Zhao Xiao, had not returned. Baoning refused to leave without her husband.
She instructed Zhao Xiao to proceed with his escape, while she returned to Siqin, seeking information about the Double-headed Eagle. Siqin confirmed it was the clan flag of the King's maternal family, a symbol rarely seen since the Prince ascended to the throne. Realizing Li Qian's target, Siqin and Baoning rushed to the palace, desperate to prevent him from committing a grave error. Inside the palace, Qing An met his ailing father.
The King, disoriented by his illness, sometimes recognized Qing An, other times mistook him for Qing An's mother, Qin Yu, or even a young child, and rambled about protecting Qing An by keeping him at a distance. Qing An, heartbroken by his father's condition, went to prepare medicine. In his absence, Li Qian infiltrated the King's bedchamber, saw the Double-headed Eagle flag displayed, and furiously confronted the King, accusing him of orchestrating the village massacre.
The King weakly denied the accusations. Just as Li Qian prepared to strike, Qing An burst back in, saving his father. Li Qian accused Qing An of deliberately befriending Dongzhi under false pretenses, but Qing An earnestly declared his genuine love for her. Unconvinced, Li Qian attempted to kill both father and son. However, Siqin arrived, intervening and revealing the true history: he was with the King at Li Village that day.
The King was indeed present, but he did not set the fire or commit the massacre; rather, another party was responsible. The King had, in fact, saved a woman, Qin Yu, from the burning village. Siqin further explained that Qin Yu, the woman the King saved, had suffered severe head trauma and lost her memory, leading the King to give her a new name. She eventually became a concubine and the mother of Second Prince Qing An.
Qin Yu, however, had left Yongqing State over a decade ago. As Li Qian struggled to process this startling truth, First Prince Qing Tai, accompanied by his troops, stormed into the palace. Upon seeing Li Qian and Commandery Princess Jia’nan, Qing Tai, seizing the opportunity, falsely accused Qing An of colluding with Mu'an people to assassinate the King.
The King, aghast, pleaded with Qing Tai not to engage in fratricide, but Qing Tai, consumed by ambition, accused his father of always favoring Qing An and his mother, and of planning to pass the throne to Qing An. Declaring that he would take the throne and the entire world for himself, Qing Tai ordered his soldiers to kill Qing An and his "helpers." Li Qian, Qing An, Baoning, and Siqin fought desperately to escape the palace.
Li Qian was wounded again while protecting Baoning, and Qing An courageously covered their retreat, urging Baoning to take Li Qian and flee. Pursued relentlessly, Li Qian and Baoning found themselves trapped in a winery. With no other option, they smashed wine jars and ignited the building, creating a fiery diversion to facilitate their escape. Seeing the blaze, Qing Tai, prioritizing the elimination of his rival, redirected his focus to pursuing Qing An.
Episode 18 Recap
Jiang Baoning carried a heavily injured Li Qian, encountering Gao Miaorong and others. Gao Miaorong immediately blamed Baoning for Li Qian's injuries, remarking that he always gets hurt because of her. Seeing approaching soldiers, Baoning bravely decided to draw them away, telling Li Qian to wait for her while she ran off.
Though his men tried to force him to leave, Zhao Xiao, witnessing Baoning being pursued by Yongqing soldiers, immediately rushed out to protect her, carrying her away to safety and urging her to hurry. Qing An, accompanied by Siqin, pursued by Qing Tai, narrowly escaped due to his familiarity with the city's intricate alleys. He then hurried to meet Li Dongzhi, intending to take her to safety.
As they met, Dongzhi questioned him about a mysterious ring and his true identity. Before Qing An could explain, Qing Tai arrived and exposed Qing An as the Second Prince of Yongqing State, claiming he had only approached Dongzhi to gather intelligence for Yongqing's southern campaign. Deeply hurt and feeling deceived, Dongzhi declared their relationship over, riding away as Qing An fought Qing Tai's men to protect her.
Qing Tai declared his intention to use Qing An's blood for a sacrificial ritual the next day and had him captured. In his prison cell, Qing An wept, recalling Dongzhi's words about hating deception and ending their relationship. Siqin secretly infiltrated Qing An’s prison and rescued him, explaining that he was sent by the King.
Qing An was then brought to his father, the ailing King of Yongqing, who revealed that his own days were numbered and he was powerless to stop Qing Tai. The King entrusted Qing An with the Dark Force badge, signifying his hope for Yongqing State, and urged him to use it to overthrow the ruthless Qing Tai, who could not bring peace. The King then questioned if Qing An still harbored resentment for his past coldness.
He confessed that seeing Qing An reminded him of his mother's betrayal, filling him with hatred and agony, but admitted he also missed her deeply, just as Qing An did. Qing An, in turn, vowed to find his mother and clear her name. As Qing Tai's men approached, the King instructed Siqin to take Qing An to safety.
When Qing Tai entered, finding Qing An gone, he furiously declared his intention to brand Qing An a traitor and hunt him "like a rat," ensuring he would "never see daylight again." Enraged by his son's cruelty, the King called Qing Tai a "rebellious son" and, in a fit of anger, collapsed and died after attempting to strike him.
Qing Tai, now the undisputed king, immediately ordered his men to search for the Dark Force badge, growing furious when they couldn't find it, realizing his father had given it to Qing An. He then issued a decree for Qing An to be killed on sight, accusing him of treason and parricide. Upon waking, Li Qian frantically searched for Baoning.
When Gao Miaorong admitted that Baoning had willingly gone to draw away the Yongqing soldiers and that they were helpless to stop her, Li Qian was furious, accusing them of watching Baoning go to her death and rejecting Gao Miaorong's touch. Gao Miaorong attempted to comfort him, recalling a promise she believed he made to her when he was delirious and mistook her for his mother, vowing to always protect him and never leave him.
She explained her medical studies were solely for his well-being, reiterating her belief that his marriage to Baoning was merely a strategic necessity. Li Qian, however, unequivocally declared his feelings for Baoning, stating that he only saw Gao Miaorong as a sister, like Li Dongzhi, and that his heart belonged to Baoning alone. Dismissing her protests and tears, Li Qian ordered Yun Lin to send Gao Miaorong home while he himself would go to Yunyang to rescue Baoning.
Despite Gao Miaorong's attempts to stop him, reminding him of his injuries and suggesting Baoning might already be dead, Li Qian became enraged, nearly striking her before leaving with Yun Lin. A subordinate remarked that Gao Miaorong was lucky Li Qian didn't hit women. Li Qian's search for Baoning led him to a post house where he encountered Zhao Zhong, who informed him that Zhao Xiao had already rescued Baoning and taken her away, confirming she was safe.
Relieved, Li Qian continued his journey back to Jinxi, but noticed a strange lack of people on the main road, deducing that Zhao Xiao was intentionally leading him on a wild goose chase. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiao, having taken Baoning to an inn, apologized for taking a "detour." However, Baoning, ever perceptive, questioned his motives and realized he had deliberately sent Zhao Zhong and his large escort away to mislead Li Qian and isolate her.
Zhao Xiao then confessed his intention to take her away, far from Jinxi and Li Qian, to be a "heavenly couple" in Nanmin, even implying that since the Grand Empress Dowager had prevented her from consummating her marriage with Li Qian, she was "still intact." Baoning vehemently rejected his advances, affirming her marriage to Li Qian and demanding to be taken back to Bingzhou, threatening to sever ties if he persisted.
Zhao Xiao, admitting he had "scrupled too much" in the past, vowed not to lose her again and tried to force her to accompany him. Just as Zhao Xiao tried to force Baoning to leave with him, Li Qian arrived, intervening to protect his wife, warning Zhao Xiao to stay away. Zhao Xiao, enraged by Li Qian's presence and earlier accusations of abandonment, retorted, questioning Li Qian's right to claim Baoning, before starting a fight.
Li Qian, still recovering from his injuries, coughed blood. Seeing this, Baoning turned on Zhao Xiao, unequivocally stating that while she appreciated his past help, she was Li Qian's wife, loved him, trusted him, and would never leave him for anyone else. She declared that at this moment, Li Qian was the only man truly deserving of her unconditional trust and love.
With that, she left with Li Qian, leaving a distraught Zhao Xiao proclaiming himself the only one worthy of her. Back at the Li Mansion, Li Dongzhi returned home safely, and her mother, He Cuihua, expressed concern for both Li Dongzhi and then Baoning's whereabouts. Gao Miaorong cruelly suggested that Baoning, if captured by Yongqing soldiers, might be dead. However, a butler soon announced the safe return of both Li Qian and Baoning.
Baoning informed her father, Li Changqing, that Zhao Xiao, the Son of Marquis Jinghai, had rescued her. Gao Miaorong immediately seized the opportunity to insinuate that Zhao Xiao's actions stemmed from his long-standing admiration for Baoning, implying an inappropriate relationship developed during their journey together. Li Qian, furious at the slander against his wife, vehemently defended Baoning, warning anyone in the household against speaking ill of her.
Li Changqing also chastised He Cuihua, calling her a "shrew" for supporting Gao Miaorong's accusations. Li Qian then publicly demonstrated his unwavering devotion by carrying Baoning away. Later, a doctor confirmed that Li Qian's injuries were healing, advising complete rest. Baoning tenderly cared for him, but Li Qian, still feeling guilty for not protecting her, wondered if she would have been better off marrying Zhao Xiao.
Baoning quickly dispelled his insecurities, assuring him that her heart had no room for Zhao Xiao, only for him, humorously calling him a "fool covered in injuries." Gao Miaorong attempted to bring a tonic to Li Qian, but Baoning intercepted her, asserting her right as Li Qian's wife to care for him and dismissing Gao Miaorong's past claims of care.
Though Gao Miaorong tried to insist on visiting Li Qian, Baoning politely but firmly refused, stating he was asleep, leaving Gao Miaorong frustrated. Li Qian also reported to his father, Li Changqing, his discovery regarding the massacre from that year. He expressed his belief that King Qing had no reason to lie in that situation and vowed to thoroughly investigate the truth.
When Li Qian later engaged in a sparring match with Jin Xiao, he feigned injury upon seeing Baoning approach, hoping to gain her sympathy, but she easily saw through his act. Meanwhile, Su Su's cold-body illness had fully recovered after a period of medicinal baths. The Grand Empress Dowager received a letter from Baoning confirming her and Li Qian's safety, bringing her great relief.
Emperor Zhao Yi, upon learning of Zhao Xiao's command failure and defeat, demoted him to Military Supply Commissioner, tasking him with managing provisions. Qing An and Siqin found refuge in Mu'an State, specifically in a tavern in Bingzhou. Qing An, feeling like a sinner due to Qing Tai's false accusations of parricide and treason, was reminded by Siqin of his late father's final wish: to gather the Dark Force and overthrow Qing Tai.
Siqin stressed that fulfilling this wish would be the greatest act of filial piety. Inspired by this, Qing An vowed not to disappoint his father's expectations. Zhao Xiao, now demoted, faced a group of Xuanjia Battalion soldiers. They confronted him, explaining that their blows were for their fallen comrades, whose lives were lost due to his command failures, and for the wages he had reportedly docked. A subordinate quickly intervened, calling for a medic and confirming that Zhao Xiao's ribs appeared to be broken.
Episode 19 Recap
Li Qian, accompanied by Jin Xiao, visited the injured Zhao Xiao. Zhao Xiao initially believed Li Qian was there to mock him, but Li Qian instead spoke of the Xuanjia Battalion's severe losses and how the soldiers, despite their sacrifices, had not received their military supplies, lacking even winter clothing. Zhao Xiao, while blaming himself for his mistakes, refused to show any weakness before Li Qian.
When Zhao Xiao inquired about Baoning’s injuries, Li Qian sharply warned him to cease his intentions towards Baoning, leading to a heated argument. Jin Xiao intervened, defusing the tension and taking Li Qian away. Zhao Xiao then sought out his subordinate, Cai Shuang, regarding the military supplies. Cai Shuang revealed that due to their drastically reduced numbers, the Xuanjia Battalion was at the bottom of the list for supplies.
He further disclosed that of the 300,000 taels of silver allocated by the court, only half, 150,000 taels, ever reached them. Zhao Xiao's previous large-scale operation had depleted most of their annual funds, leaving him remorseful and desperate for a solution to the looming supply crisis. Just then, a subordinate of the Jinghai Marquis arrived with money and provisions.
The Marquis, aware of Zhao Xiao's reckless combat tactics that led to significant losses, had sent aid to cover the immediate need. Seeing the silver, Cai Shuang suggested that while it might suffice for winter, it wouldn't last until spring. He proposed using the money to generate more funds, promising it would secure provisions for the coming year. Tempted, Zhao Xiao agreed, and Cai Shuang promptly took the silver to an illegal money house.
Back home, Li Qian and Baoning engaged in playful banter. Qingke reminded Li Qian about the Grand Empress Dowager's instructions. Unbeknownst to them, Gao Miaorong, who was delivering soup, overheard this. She discreetly ordered her maid to investigate the nature of the Grand Empress Dowager’s command. The next day, Gao Miaorong relayed the information—that Baoning and Li Qian were not to consummate their marriage—to Li Changqing and He Cuihua.
Li Changqing, concerned about the continuation of the family line, was bewildered by the Grand Empress Dowager’s directive. Meanwhile, Li Qian approached Zhao Xiao about the military supply deficit. To prevent unrest in the army, he offered to use his family’s surplus grain to alleviate the shortage. However, Zhao Xiao, driven by pride, refused Li Qian’s assistance. He even impulsively made a military pledge, vowing to resolve the Jinxi military supply issue within a month or face severe consequences.
Frustrated by Zhao Xiao’s impetuousness, Li Qian left in anger. Gao Miaorong visited her uncle, Gao Fuyu, inquiring about Li Changqing’s preferences in an attempt to curry favor with him. Accidentally, she discovered an old betrothal letter between herself and Li Qian, written by her uncle and Li Changqing years ago. Overjoyed by this revelation, Gao Miaorong became determined. She insisted that even though Li Qian had married Baoning, he could still take her as a second wife.
She tearfully pleaded with her uncle to help her fulfill this long-held desire. Seeing her resolve, Gao Fuyu reluctantly agreed to speak with Li Changqing. Li Changqing, who had written the betrothal letter in a drunken state, naturally refused, as Li Qian was now married to a princess. He tried to persuade Gao Miaorong to give up on Li Qian, offering to find her a suitable husband in Bingzhou.
In a desperate act, Gao Miaorong dramatically threatened to cut her hair and become a nun in front of everyone. He Cuihua quickly stopped her, and with Gao Fuyu’s earnest plea, Li Changqing was forced to compromise. Li Changqing then brought Gao Miaorong and the betrothal letter to Baoning, hoping she would accept Gao Miaorong into the household. Baoning was furious.
Gao Miaorong immediately knelt, declaring her unwavering devotion to Li Qian and her willingness to accept any position, even as a concubine or a maid, as long as she could remain by his side. Li Changqing pressured Baoning, reiterating that since she and Li Qian had not yet consummated their marriage, and the Li family line needed to continue, he hoped Gao Miaorong could help "share the burden."
Feeling cornered, Baoning could only watch as Li Changqing allowed Gao Miaorong to stay in their courtyard. That night, Li Qian returned home to find himself locked out of his room by Baoning. Confused, he learned about the betrothal letter and Gao Miaorong's presence, leading him to confront Li Changqing. Li Changqing admitted his past foolishness in writing the betrothal but argued that Gao Miaorong had grown up with Li Qian and loved him.
Given that Li Qian and Baoning hadn't consummated their marriage, he claimed his actions were for the good of the Li family. Li Qian angrily rebuked his father, and their argument ended in an unpleasant stalemate. Returning to his courtyard, Baoning, still in a huff, sarcastically told Li Qian that Gao Miaorong was in the study and that he should go there. Li Qian, equally stubborn, declared he would indeed spend the night in the study.
The next morning, Baoning, having heard that Li Qian and Gao Miaorong had spent the night together, stormed into the study. She found them calmly playing chess. Li Qian, further provoking her, thanked her for her "generosity and virtuousness" that allowed him to enjoy the company of multiple women. Enraged, Baoning left, but halfway out, she turned back, fiercely accusing Li Qian of deceiving her.
Li Qian, however, was delighted by her passionate reaction, seeing it as a sign of her true feelings. Later, Gao Miaorong, recalling her conversation with Li Qian, was heartbroken. Li Qian had refused to acknowledge the betrothal, stating plainly that he did not love her and that Baoning was the only woman in his heart. Despite her elaborate schemes and even gaining the reluctant approval of Li Changqing and Baoning, Li Qian’s personal rejection left her devastated.
She blamed Baoning for all her misfortunes. Li Qian and Baoning later had a private, heartfelt conversation, during which Li Qian urged Baoning to always voice her feelings directly to him instead of bottling them up. Through this exchange, the couple finally resolved their misunderstandings. In another part of town, Cao Xuan's mother gave his childhood toys and clothes to Su Su for safekeeping.
She expressed gratitude that Su Su had married Cao Xuan even after the Cao family lost influence and hoped for a harmonious marriage between them, rather than seeking glory. That evening, Cao Xuan returned home, and Su Su shared his childhood items with him. Cao Xuan recognized his mother's subtle hint, understanding her desire for grandchildren, and they shared a tender moment. Li Dongzhi, meanwhile, was being pressured by her mother, He Cuihua, about marriage during dinner.
Unable to endure her mother's incessant nagging, she fled the house. Coincidentally, she ran into Li Qian and Baoning returning home. Li Dongzhi expressed her envy for their loving relationship. Baoning inquired about Qing An, but Li Dongzhi, still resentful over being deceived, refused to forgive him, despite still wearing the ring he had given her, betraying her true feelings.
Separately, Shao, a young master who had invested all his money in an illegal money house, visited Gao Miaorong to demand his funds back. With no money to repay him, Gao Miaorong cunningly offered to introduce him to Li Dongzhi instead. He Cuihua, still fretting over finding a suitable husband for Li Dongzhi, was overjoyed when Gao Miaorong highly recommended Shao, praising his distinguished family background, vast wealth, and handsome appearance.
He Cuihua immediately arranged for them to meet the next day. However, Li Dongzhi was instantly repulsed by Shao's effeminate scent and his constant references to Baoning, the Commandery Princess. She promptly rose to leave, but Shao attempted to prevent her. Fortunately, Qing An appeared, intervened, and led Li Dongzhi away.
Qing An attempted to explain his true identity, confessing that he was indeed the Second Prince of Yongqing and that his travels between the two countries were genuinely to search for his mother, and his feelings for her were sincere. But Li Dongzhi, still unwilling to forgive his deception, returned his ring and departed, warning him not to reappear before her again, or she would expose his true identity.
Episode 20 Recap
He Cuihua scolded Li Dongzhi for abandoning a blind date with Mr. Shao and warned her that her stubbornness would make her a laughing stock. Dongzhi tried to escape the conversation by claiming she was summoned to the military camp. He Cuihua continued to complain to Li Changqing about their daughter, believing Dongzhi had ruined a good marriage prospect.
Just then, a servant announced the arrival of guests: a Mrs. Zhang and her daughter, Zhang Lan'er, from Hedong, who claimed Li Changqing would know them. The guests, Mrs. Zhang and Zhang Lan'er, were shown in. Zhang Lan'er immediately commented on the modest size of the Li family mansion, comparing it unfavorably to their own palatial residence with jade floors, gold pillars, and silkwood furniture.
Mrs. Zhang then explained to Li Changqing that her husband, Mr. Zhang, had passed away a few years ago. She had since grown their family fortune by buying estates and opening shops in Bingzhou and needed a temporary residence while her own house was undergoing renovations. Li Changqing, out of gratitude for Mr. Zhang who had once saved his life, warmly welcomed them and insisted they make themselves at home.
Mrs. Zhang, however, continued to boast about their wealth, stating they were "a bit richer than officials." She then revealed her true intention for visiting Bingzhou was to find a suitable husband for her daughter, declaring that Zhang Lan'er, with her beauty and wealth, was worthy of an imperial relative. He Cuihua secretly scoffed at Zhang Lan'er’s appearance and her mother’s lofty ambitions.
Later, Li Changqing and He Cuihua, finding the mother and daughter's behavior unbearable, made an excuse to leave the room. Li Changqing confessed to his wife that he only knew the elder Mr. Zhang, not this pair. As Li Qian and Jiang Baoning returned to the mansion, Zhang Lan'er, eager to see the Commandery Princess, rushed to the entrance with her mother. She was immediately captivated by Li Qian's handsome appearance and skilled horsemanship as he dismounted.
Mrs. Zhang, regretting that Li Qian was already married to a Commandery Princess, was then approached by Gao Miaorong. Gao Miaorong subtly revealed that while Li Qian was an exceptional man, Jiang Baoning had a delicate constitution and the marriage had not yet been consummated, causing Li Changqing concern about Li Qian's heirs. Zhang Lan'er, upon hearing this, saw a glimmer of hope. Her mother promptly asked Gao Miaorong's opinion of Zhang Lan'er.
Gao Miaorong, with a hidden agenda to cause trouble for Jiang Baoning, lavishly praised Zhang Lan'er's beauty and suggested that if she were to marry Li Qian, bear a son, and inherit the Li family's fortune, it would be a glorious prospect. Zhang Lan'er initially balked at the idea of being a concubine, but Gao Miaorong quickly reassured her that since Jiang Baoning's marriage was unconsummated, Zhang Lan'er would be considered a co-wife, not a concubine.
The mother and daughter were delighted by the prospect, their confidence bolstered by Gao Miaorong's manipulation. Gao Miaorong then pledged her full support if they needed anything. That night, Liuhe, Zhang Lan'er’s maid, struggled to find the kitchen to fetch bathwater. She accidentally bumped into Qingke, who kindly offered to guide her.
Qingke noticed a bruise on Liuhe's hand and inquired about it, but Liuhe quickly dismissed it as a shadow from the candlelight and hurried away, seemingly afraid of being late to serve her mistresses. Zhang Lan'er, following her mother's advice to attract Li Qian, attempted a "coincidental" encounter with him, but Li Qian walked past without acknowledging her. She then tried to pretend to fall in his path.
Li Qian, seeing through her ploy, jokingly suggested she was "absorbing the essence of earth" and instructed his guard, Wei Shu, to ensure no one disturbed her while she lay there. Gao Miaorong intervened, helping a humiliated Zhang Lan'er up. Gao Miaorong then advised Zhang Lan'er that Li Qian disliked manipulative women and preferred someone like the Commandery Princess, leading Zhang Lan'er to decide to imitate Jiang Baoning.
Back in her room, Zhang Lan'er lashed out at Liuhe, blaming her for the failed attempt and striking her. Liuhe protested, stating Zhang Lan'er had told her to keep away. Zhang Lan'er, infuriated, accused Liuhe of disloyalty and told her to "go away." Liuhe tearfully asked where she could go. Gao Miaorong, feigning kindness, offered to find Liuhe a new place to stay. She advised Liuhe not to be stubborn and to "act according to circumstances" for her own good.
Gao Miaorong then brought Liuhe to the woodshed, apologizing that as she was not the mistress of the house, she could only offer such humble accommodations. The next day, Zhang Lan'er deliberately waited at Jiang Baoning’s dining area during lunch, even ordering Qingke to serve her, much to Qingke's annoyance. Zhang Lan'er then began to openly mimic Jiang Baoning's refined eating habits, which Jiang Baoning found amusing. Zhang Lan'er continued to shadow Jiang Baoning, observing her every move.
That evening, Gao Miaorong visited Zhang Lan'er to check on her progress. Privately, Gao Miaorong reveled in Zhang Lan'er's clumsy imitations, secretly plotting to use her as a "thorn in the side" for Jiang Baoning. Later, Jiang Baoning encountered Gao Miaorong outside the Zhang mother-daughter's room and overheard Zhang Lan'er inside loudly imitating her, even mocking her as the "sickly Commandery Princess." Jiang Baoning, using the excuse that the guest room was cold, entered to offer a quilt.
She noticed Liuhe was absent, recalling Qingke's earlier mention of Liuhe's bruises. Jiang Baoning became concerned, wanting to help Liuhe. Back in her own room, Jiang Baoning expressed her worries to Li Qian about Dongzhi's extended stay at the military camp and her inability to find Liuhe. Li Qian, feeling a touch of jealousy, playfully chided her for worrying about other girls but not him. Qingke eventually located Liuhe.
Jiang Baoning, with the quilt in hand, hesitated to approach directly, fearing it would worsen Liuhe’s plight if her masters discovered she was being helped. She instructed Qingke to discreetly deliver the quilt, fabricating a story about it being an old quilt for covering firewood to keep it dry, and suggesting Liuhe could share it. Qingke delivered the quilt.
Jiang Baoning later asked Liuhe why she continued to endure the abuse from the Zhang mother-daughter, to which Liuhe replied that she considered them family, a sentiment Qingke found utterly foolish. The following morning, Li Qian, mistaking Zhang Lan'er for Jiang Baoning, walked into her, startled, and accidentally kicked her.
He quickly ordered Wei Shu to check if she was alive and, if so, to send her back to her room and instruct her mother to keep a closer eye on her. Zhang Lan'er, enraged, rejected Wei Shu’s help, calling him hypocritical. Following this, Gao Miaorong advised Zhang Lan'er not to attempt encounters with Li Qian in crowded places, suggesting a more private setting for better success.
Qingke later reported Zhang Lan'er's brazen attempt to "throw herself" at Li Qian, leading Jiang Baoning to sarcastically remark on Li Qian's good fortune. Li Qian, however, playfully feigned distress, claiming he had "nearly been flirted with" and asking Jiang Baoning to "defend him," which she playfully agreed to do. Soon after, Dong Shanhu arrived to invite Jiang Baoning to a flower feast hosted by the Dong family.
The event was being held to introduce Jiang Baoning to Miss Qi Dan, a renowned expert in cultivating flowers in Bingzhou, and also to celebrate Dong Shanhu's younger sister, Dong Zhenzhu's, birthday. Li Qian encouraged Jiang Baoning to attend and make more friends. Zhang Lan'er, overhearing the details, insisted on accompanying Jiang Baoning.
At the Dong mansion, Zhang Lan'er’s impudence immediately surfaced as she referred to Dong Zhenzhu as an "unruly girl from a merchant family," causing awkwardness among the guests. During the banquet, Zhang Lan'er disparaged the simple, homegrown dishes, calling them "rotten vegetables" and "food even beggars wouldn't eat." When Dong Zhenzhu politely explained the nutritional value of a particular horseradish dish, Zhang Lan'er retorted rudely. After tasting it, she declared it "bitter" and "what the hell is it?"
while Jiang Baoning praised its unique flavor. Zhang Lan'er, finding it unappetizing, angrily left the table. Feeling ignored when no one followed her, she stomped through the garden, wantonly destroying Qi Dan’s meticulously cultivated flowers.
Episode 21 Recap
Qi Dan brought a rare azalea called Fiery Silk, a tribute flower destined for the palace, for everyone to admire. However, upon their arrival, they discovered the flower had been destroyed. A servant from the Dong household soon apprehended Zhang Duolan, who was found wearing a piece of the destroyed azalea in her hair.
Zhang Duolan, showing no remorse, defiantly declared that she had indeed taken the flower and threatened to have Li Qian retaliate by trampling their entire yard if anyone interfered. Infuriated, Qi Dan slapped Zhang Duolan, escalating into a physical altercation between the two. As Zhang Duolan fell to the ground, a group of young men approached. Upon hearing that she was a guest of Your Grace Jiang Baoning, they mistakenly assumed she was of noble status.
Shao Yang stepped forward to defend Zhang Duolan against Qi Dan, questioning if Qi Dan's behavior was appropriate towards a guest of the Dong family. Seeing this, Jiang Baoning intervened and promised Qi Dan that she would find a replacement Fiery Silk within three days to prevent any harm to the Qi family. However, Zhang Duolan scorned Jiang Baoning's offer, accusing her of siding with the others to bully her, and stormed off.
Shao Yang, intrigued by Zhang Duolan's supposed wealth and status, inquired about her to Dong Shanhu, who confirmed Zhang Duolan's father was a millionaire and she had inherited his entire fortune. Shao Yang, now more eager, pursued Zhang Duolan, complimenting her beauty and apologizing for Qi Dan’s rudeness, which greatly pleased Zhang Duolan. Returning home, Zhang Duolan complained to her mother, who then led her to confront He Cuihua about the incident.
He Cuihua called Jiang Baoning to resolve the matter. Jiang Baoning decided this was an opportune moment to teach Zhang Duolan a lesson. She explained that destroying a palace tribute like the Fiery Silk would result in the execution of Zhang Duolan's entire family, and implicate the Li family as well. Both Zhang Duolan and her mother were terrified, immediately begging Jiang Baoning for a solution. Meanwhile, a pot of Fiery Silk mysteriously appeared at Shao Yang's doorstep.
Believing it to be a sign of heaven’s favor, Shao Yang promptly took the flower to Zhang Duolan, professing his relief that she no longer had to worry. Zhang Duolan was delighted and, feeling triumphant, showed off the new flower to Jiang Baoning, boasting about her ability to acquire such rare items. Jiang Baoning, feigning admiration, praised Zhang Duolan's appearance and gifted her an expensive set of ruby jewelry, asking in return to temporarily have Liuhe as her maid.
Zhang Duolan readily agreed, stating she was tired of Liuhe. Qingke lamented the loss of the valuable jewelry, but Jiang Baoning calmly explained she was merely aiding Zhang Duolan. Wearing the opulent jewelry, Zhang Duolan met with Shao Yang and exaggerated her family's immense wealth, claiming such pieces were merely "medium quality" at home and that she had never encountered anyone richer than her family.
Shao Yang, impressed by her supposed fortune and her family's past as officials, became more intimate with her, sharing details of his own family's extensive business. Zhang Duolan, in turn, was satisfied with Shao Yang's background. Gao Miaorong observed their growing closeness. That evening, as Zhang Duolan still had not returned, Jiang Baoning deduced that her plan was succeeding.
Su Su later informed Cao mother that she was a month pregnant, a revelation that brought immense joy to Cao mother, though she was cautious due to a risk of miscarriage. Cao mother expressed deep gratitude to Su Su for enduring hardships to continue the Cao family line. Separately, Gao Miaorong invited Zhang mother to dinner at a restaurant, where she subtly arranged for Zhang mother to witness Zhang Duolan and Shao Yang dining together.
Back home, Zhang mother confronted Zhang Duolan, admonishing her to prioritize marrying Li Qian, whose family was more influential, as Shao Yang's family had fallen into decline. Zhang Duolan conceded that marrying Li Qian seemed more advantageous. She then aggressively questioned Liuhe, accusing her of revealing her secret, despite Liuhe's vehement denials. Zhang Duolan then promised Liuhe that if she married Li Qian, Liuhe could accompany her as a concubine.
Later that night, Qingke brought food to Liuhe, who expressed her gratitude for Jiang Baoning's kindness and her unwillingness to betray her while remaining loyal to Zhang mother and daughter, but still worried about Zhang Duolan's offer. Jiang Baoning advised Liuhe to make a decision quickly. During a banquet hosted by Li Changqing, Li Qian drank heavily.
Wei Shu prepared to escort him back to his room, but a servant intervened, claiming Gao Miaorong urgently needed Wei Shu and offered to take Li Qian instead. Wei Shu agreed. The servant, secretly acting on Zhang Duolan’s instructions, led Li Qian to a guest room. Liuhe tried to stop Zhang Duolan from entering, warning her not to wrong Jiang Baoning, but Zhang Duolan forcefully pushed her into a wall, knocking her unconscious.
As Zhang Duolan hurried towards Li Qian's room, she was intercepted by Shao Yang, who had been waiting for her. Zhang Duolan, feigning an urgent errand, quickly departed. Upon returning to her room and not finding Li Qian, Jiang Baoning suspected Zhang Duolan's machinations and set out to find him. However, she was stopped by Zhang mother, who enthusiastically invited everyone to watch fireworks. Zhang mother led the household to a specific courtyard, but no fireworks appeared.
Jiang Baoning, sensing a trap, attempted to redirect everyone to the backyard. Gao Miaorong, however, insisted they stay, claiming the backyard was too close to the stables and a fire hazard. Gao Miaorong then dramatically pushed open the door to the room. Inside, they found Zhang Duolan naked in bed with a man. Zhang mother, overjoyed, initially believed it to be Li Qian, but her joy turned to shock when she realized the man was Shao Yang.
Shao Yang, having thought Zhang Duolan was playing hard to get, had followed her and, frustrated, burst into the room. Finding Li Qian absent, he seized the opportunity to declare his love for Zhang Duolan, who, convinced it was "heaven's will," yielded to him. Caught in the compromising situation, Shao Yang promptly proposed marriage to Zhang mother, who, with everyone as a witness, had no choice but to reluctantly agree.
Back in her room, Jiang Baoning was startled by Li Qian, who had appeared unexpectedly. When asked where he had been, Li Qian explained that he found the servant's insistence on taking him to his father's study suspicious, so after the servant left, he simply took a nap there. Jiang Baoning congratulated him on narrowly escaping the predicament.
Li Qian, in turn, praised Jiang Baoning's shrewdness, noting how she had orchestrated everything with a single flower, bringing Shao Yang and Zhang Duolan together. Jiang Baoning then asked if he considered her a "bad woman" for her elaborate schemes. Li Qian, however, confessed that he loved her precisely for her cunning and possessiveness, for always keeping him at the forefront of her mind. Blushing, Jiang Baoning playfully fled.
Qingke soon found Liuhe, who was now worried about being forced to become Shao Yang's concubine. Jiang Baoning urged Liuhe to make a firm decision about her future. The following day, Qingke publicly accused Liuhe of stealing from the Li family, claiming to have caught her red-handed. Zhang mother, fearing implication, immediately slapped Liuhe and vehemently disavowed her. Jiang Baoning then asked Zhang Duolan how she wished to handle the matter.
To avoid any association, both Zhang mother and Zhang Duolan completely distanced themselves from Liuhe. Jiang Baoning, taking charge, ordered Liuhe to be flogged twenty times and expelled from the Li family, thereby granting her freedom. On Zhang Duolan's wedding night, she discovered that Shao Yang had multiple concubines, infuriating her. In the ensuing argument, Shao Yang revealed that Zhang Duolan's dowry was fake, filled with bricks. Realizing they had both been deceived, the couple descended into a violent brawl.
Meanwhile, Cao Xuan was overjoyed to learn of Su Su's pregnancy. He recounted a dream of an immortal bestowing a koi fish upon him, interpreting it as a divine blessing. He then lovingly named their unborn child Cao Nianci, hoping for the child to inherit Su Su's tolerant and benevolent nature. He Cuihua was busy arranging a marriage for Dongdong.
Dongdong, however, questioned why Gao Miaorong had so eagerly promoted Shao Yang as a potential husband for her, wondering if Gao Miaorong genuinely didn't know his true character. He Cuihua also found it suspicious, realizing that but for Zhang Duolan’s intervention, she might have inadvertently pushed her daughter into a disastrous marriage. She decided to distance herself from Gao Miaorong.
Soon after, Gao Miaorong arrived to pay her respects, but He Cuihua coldly rejected her, causing Gao Miaorong to leave feeling dejected. A servant then announced Jiang Baoning's arrival to pay respects, and He Cuihua, her mood instantly brightened, went out happily to greet her, an interaction witnessed by the disheartened Gao Miaorong.
Episode 22 Recap
Empress Han Tongxin sought an audience with Emperor Zhao Yi, eager to discuss preparations for her upcoming birthday in three months. Zhao Yi, knowing her intentions, readily promised a grand celebration, instructing the Ministry of Rites to handle all her requests for a magnificent ceremony.
However, Zhao Yi's true purpose for this elaborate birthday was twofold: to uphold the Empress's image before the court and to seize the opportunity to negotiate the import of warhorses with foreign envoys arriving for the festivities. He privately wished Han Tongxin would simply avoid causing him trouble. Meanwhile, Grand Empress Dowager rejoiced upon learning of Su Su’s pregnancy and prepared a special gift for the unborn child.
Though both Baoning and Su Su had married and left the palace, the Grand Empress Dowager was happy for their new lives. As Su Su was returning to her residence, she decided to stop at a fabric shop to select material for baby clothes to complement the exquisite longevity locket and bracelets she received. On the way, the carriage driver swerved to avoid a child, causing the carriage to jolt violently. Su Su fell and suffered a miscarriage.
Distraught, Su Su blamed herself for losing the baby. Cao Xuan, who had been lovingly building a swing for her and their child, reassured her that she was the most important person in his life and that they would have other children. A distant relative, Liu Guirong, arrived at the Li Mansion, recounting his tragic life as an orphan and lamenting that the Li family had not helped him despite his father's sacrifice.
Li Qian, recognizing Liu Guirong's clear intentions, arranged for him to stay, providing him with lavish food and drink, and even commissioning new clothes for him. Baoning questioned Li Qian about the guest, learning that Liu Guirong's father had been Li Changqing's trusted subordinate and had died saving Li Changqing during the Yongqing battle. This deep debt of gratitude meant the Li family felt obligated to treat Liu Guirong kindly, regardless of his unreasonable demands.
Baoning worried that Liu Guirong's appetite for their generosity would only grow, leading to endless trouble. Li Changqing initially considered giving him money to leave, but feared he would return. Following Winter Solstice's suggestion, Li Qian decided to find Liu Guirong a job as a trial. He Cuihua was also troubled by Liu Guirong's presence.
Gao Miaorong, observing the situation, speculated that Liu Guirong might be looking for a wife and suggested that He Cuihua find a maid from the mansion or other residences to marry him off. Li Changqing offered Liu Guirong a night watchman's position. Liu Guirong was initially disdainful, but Li Qian emphasized the importance of the role, highlighting its duties in fire prevention, theft prevention, and timekeeping.
Li Changqing further promised to relocate him to a better position later, which reluctantly convinced Liu Guirong to accept the job. As expected, Liu Guirong proved to be lazy and negligent in his duties. He developed an inappropriate infatuation with Qingke, Baoning's personal maid, and constantly harassed her. Qingke, unable to endure his persistent advances, sought Baoning's help. Baoning and Li Qian agreed that they needed to find a way to make Liu Guirong move out of the Li Mansion.
Soon after, Liu Guirong's dereliction of duty led to a robbery in the city. Losing his job, Liu Guirong brazenly demanded money from the Li family and insisted on marrying Qingke, claiming He Cuihua had promised him a wife. Everyone at the Li Mansion vehemently rejected his outrageous demands, with Baoning angrily taking Qingke away. Suspicious of Liu Guirong's late-night absences, Baoning, accompanied by Winter Solstice, tracked him. They discovered he owned a house and had a wife.
After discussing their findings, Baoning and Li Qian devised a plan for Li Qian to trick Liu Guirong into signing a letter of divorce. The following day, Winter Solstice brought Liu Guirong's wife, Mudan, to the mansion, presenting the divorce letter. Enraged by her husband's attempt to abandon her and marry another, Mudan violently confronted and dragged Liu Guirong away.
Afterward, Li Qian gave Liu Guirong a sum of money, advising him to return home, farm his land with his wife, and cease bothering the Li family. Li Qian warned him that any further attempts to cause trouble would not be tolerated. In the autumn of the third year of Zhending Reign, continuous heavy rainfall caused the Hebian River to breach its banks and the Yellow River to flood, devastating three provinces, four prefectures, and twenty-eight counties.
Countless people perished, and millions were left homeless and destitute. Upon learning of the disaster, Emperor Zhao Yi ordered his officials to immediately organize disaster relief and assist the displaced civilians. Amidst the crisis, the Xuanjia Battalion and Huben Battalion clashed due to severe food shortages.
Li Qian confronted Zhao Xiao, the Quartermaster, demanding an explanation for the Xuanjia Battalion soldiers enduring hunger and cold, with their meals cut by more than half and no warm clothing for the approaching winter. Zhao Xiao blamed the widespread flood and the influx of disaster victims for the scarcity of supplies.
He promised Li Qian that he was finding a solution and would compensate the soldiers once the issue was resolved, asking for a few days to manage the situation. Baoning, meanwhile, learned about the dire situation from Dong Shanhu, including the widespread suffering of the disaster victims, the scarcity of resources, and the growing unrest among both civilians and soldiers in Jinxi. She was deeply concerned.
When Li Qian briefly returned home to check on her, he cautioned her to stay indoors due to the increasing number of displaced people in the city. Baoning offered him 5,000 taels of silver to address the soldiers' immediate needs. Li Qian, however, refused the money, citing the need to avoid unnecessary complications and uphold principles.
He explained that using her dowry could invite scrutiny from the Grand Empress Dowager and the Emperor, potentially leading to dire consequences for the Li family. He asked Baoning to have faith in his ability to solve the problem himself. Before leaving, Li Qian took a handmade sachet from Baoning, telling her he preferred it to the money, and shared a tender moment with her.
Subsequently, Baoning, under the Li family's name, began distributing food to the city's disaster victims, earning their profound gratitude for Li Changqing's benevolence. Dong Shanhu then suggested that Baoning establish a charity house. She proposed encouraging wealthy merchants and gentry in Jinxi to donate money for the sake of their reputation. These funds would be used for disaster relief and to provide the victims with shelter and basic labor opportunities, enabling them to earn a living.
Dong Shanhu offered an initial donation of 10,000 taels of silver for the project. In the palace, the Ministry of Rites presented Empress Han Tongxin with opulent silks, exquisite jewelry, and an elaborate menu for her upcoming birthday. Han Tongxin intended to use these preparations as an excuse to seek out Zhao Yi and discuss every detail, hoping to spend time with him. However, Zhao Yi, anticipating her move, had already left his study.
Despite his efforts to avoid her by retreating to a secluded, chilly garden, Han Tongxin eventually found him, demanding his opinion on various makeup designs. Frustrated by her persistence and clinginess, Zhao Yi was relieved when a court official arrived with an urgent report regarding the disaster relief, providing him with a convenient escape back to his hall. Despite her husband's clear annoyance, Han Tongxin decided to wear the unevenly placed forehead flower from their discussion and proudly parade around the garden, believing it would make others envious.
Episode 23 Recap
Dongzhi emphatically declared her intention to break off ties with Qing An and returned the ring he had given her, labeling him an enemy and threatening to expose his true identity if he ever appeared before her again. Qing An was heartbroken but realized his current precarious position would only bring suffering to her, so he decided against pursuing her further at that moment.
His aide, Siqin, advised him to seize the day, prompting Qing An to decide he would clarify everything with Dongzhi before returning to Yongqing, fabricating a reason that he had left something important behind. Meanwhile, Qing An, using the Dark Force token entrusted to him by his late father, assembled the Dark Force. He explained that his father had groomed them to protect Yongqing State.
Though he would have willingly yielded the throne if Qing Tai sought peace and prosperity for the people, Qing Tai's ambitious plans to instigate conflicts among nations would inevitably lead to widespread suffering. Qing An rallied the Dark Force to join him in overthrowing Qing Tai's oppressive rule and restoring peace, to which they pledged their unwavering loyalty.
At the Li Mansion, He Cuihua, determined to marry off Dongzhi, tried to force her to attend Old Lady Liu’s birthday party to meet eligible young men. Dongzhi refused, even suggesting her mother focus on pleasing her father instead. Enraged, He Cuihua accidentally stumbled, then ordered servants to lock all the doors, threatening to keep Dongzhi confined until she agreed. However, Li Changqing secretly released Dongzhi from her room.
He Cuihua, discovering Dongzhi's escape, berated Li Changqing, calling him a disrespectful old bastard for undermining her authority. He Cuihua grew even angrier upon finding that Dongzhi had packed her seasonal clothes, money, and valuables before leaving. She swore to disown Dongzhi and break her legs if she ever returned. Baoning intervened, offering to bring Dongzhi back on the condition that He Cuihua would no longer force her into marriage and would allow her to choose her own partner.
Li Changqing supported Baoning, emphasizing Dongzhi's resolute character and the need for a lasting solution. He Cuihua reluctantly agreed to the deal. To find Dongzhi, Baoning discreetly questioned her maid, Ling'er, who eventually revealed that Dongzhi had mentioned going to a familiar place she hadn’t visited in a while. Baoning suspected Li Qian would know the location, and he confirmed it was likely their distant aunt’s pharmacy house, where they had spent time as children.
Concerned about the increasing unrest and refugees outside, Baoning insisted Li Qian accompany her, and he playfully agreed to the journey. Unbeknownst to them, Qing An had gone to the teahouse where he and Dongzhi first met, hoping to find her. He had just left, thinking she wouldn't come, but then saw her enter the teahouse shortly after he departed. He stealthily followed her. Dongzhi, despite her recent breakup, felt a profound emptiness and yearned for Qing An.
She purchased a folding fan, convinced he would appreciate its size, noting his large hands. Later, as she walked, she inadvertently dropped the fan, which Qing An secretly retrieved, musing that if fate wasn't on their side, there was no point in forcing things. While Dongzhi paused at a roadside tea stall, her purse was stolen by a gambler. Qing An, still secretly trailing her, swiftly intercepted the thief, forcing him to return the money.
He made the thief promise to keep his involvement a secret and to abandon gambling. Dongzhi noticed the thief’s bruised face and correctly inferred Qing An's presence nearby. However, she mistakenly approached and greeted a stranger, causing her embarrassment. She then resolved to seek refuge at her aunt’s house in Sanyuan Town, with Qing An continuing to discreetly follow her carriage to ensure her safety.
On their journey to the aunt’s house, Baoning and Li Qian encountered a multitude of refugees. Baoning, moved by their plight, generously distributed all their remaining money and food. Their act of kindness, however, drew the attention of a desperate group who attempted to rob them. Baoning, discerning their true desperation rather than inherent malice, chose not to fight.
Instead, she offered them her official seal and directed them to the charity house being established in Bingzhou, promising them food, shelter, and work. Overwhelmed with gratitude, the refugees recognized her as Commandery Princess Jia’nan and knelt in thanks. Dongzhi safely reached her aunt’s pharmacy house. Seeing her secure, Qing An quietly departed. Soon after, Li Qian and Baoning arrived, receiving a warm welcome from their aunt. Li Qian and Dongzhi exchanged playful barbs, typical of siblings.
Li Qian then remembered his aunt’s traditional remedies and asked her to prepare a strengthening tonic for Baoning, subtly hinting at their hopes for children. Dongzhi teasingly remarked on Li Qian's "impatience." Baoning then proposed a plan to revitalize the neglected pharmacy house. She suggested inviting the homeless refugees to work the land, providing them with food and lodging.
She further envisioned a long-term plan where, after the disaster, these workers could become co-owners, cultivating and selling medicinal herbs to official trading houses, thereby securing their livelihoods. Dongzhi enthusiastically volunteered to recruit people for this initiative. After a few days at the pharmacy house, Baoning spoke with Dongzhi.
She revealed that He Cuihua had agreed to respect Dongzhi's choices in marriage and suggested that Dongzhi could oversee the newly established charity house in Bingzhou – a project Baoning and a Miss Dong had started, partly to manage expenses. Delighted by this new purpose, Dongzhi agreed to return home. The following morning, they prepared to depart for Bingzhou.
In the capital, Emperor Zhao Yi faced mounting financial pressure from both ongoing disaster relief efforts and the extravagant expenses planned for Empress Han Tongxin’s upcoming birthday celebration. He instructed the Ministry of Rites and the Imperial Household Department to find "reasonable and compliant" justifications to curb the Queen's spending. Empress Han Tongxin, frustrated by the lack of preparations for her birthday, confronted officials.
The Ministry of Rites cited lengthy price comparison procedures, attributing delays to numerous new merchants, while the Imperial Household Department claimed they were occupied with the annual inventory. Furious, Empress Han Tongxin sought Zhao Yi’s intervention. Zhao Yi, feigning anger at the officials, declared himself too busy with state affairs and advised her to use her authority as Empress to resolve the matter independently.
Meanwhile, while Baoning was engaged in a game of chess with Li Qian, winning through some playful yet "shameless" tactics, Qingke arrived with alarming news: the Grand Empress Dowager was gravely ill and her condition was uncertain. Baoning immediately made preparations to return to the capital. Li Qian, unfortunately, was tied down by urgent military duties at the camp but promised to join her as soon as possible, assigning Wei Shu to escort her.
Dongzhi also offered to accompany Baoning, but He Cuihua forbade it. Upon her arrival at Shoukang Palace, Baoning discovered that her Grandmother's illness was not as critical as reported; she had merely caught a cold during the seasonal change and was already recovering, as confirmed by the Chief Physician. Zhao Yi, learning of Baoning's unexpected return, rushed to visit the Grand Empress Dowager, feigning deep concern.
The Grand Empress Dowager, aware that the news of her illness had not originated from Shoukang Palace, subtly questioned Zhao Yi about how Baoning had been informed, subtly hinting at her suspicions regarding his motives.
Episode 24 Recap
Zhao Yi, wanting to see Commandery Princess Jiang Baoning, deliberately sent a false message to Bingzhou, exaggerating the Grand Empress Dowager's illness, even though the Grand Empress Dowager had specifically instructed that Jiang Baoning not be informed to avoid worrying her. Upon Jiang Baoning's arrival, the Grand Empress Dowager mildly rebuked Zhao Yi for alarming Jiang Baoning.
Zhao Yi then proposed staying to accompany both of them, but Jiang Baoning politely declined, stating that her husband, Li Qian, would soon arrive and they would accompany the Grand Empress Dowager together. The Grand Empress Dowager also urged Zhao Yi to attend to his court duties. Feeling thwarted, Zhao Yi secretly instructed the guards at the Gate of Divine Might to find an excuse to prevent Li Qian from entering the palace.
Meanwhile, at the Li mansion, He Cuihua was scolding her daughter, Li Dongzhi, for running away from home. He Cuihua expressed her worries and her desire to cook all of Li Dongzhi's favorite dishes. Li Dongzhi, however, was impatient, stating that her mother's constant discipline, restrictions, and pressure to marry were the reasons she left.
Offended, He Cuihua declared that she would no longer meddle in Li Dongzhi's affairs, a statement Li Dongzhi initially challenged but soon realized was genuine when her mother continued to ignore her. Even after Li Dongzhi tried to appease her by dressing in a more ladylike fashion, a style He Cuihua preferred, her mother remained indifferent, leaving Li Dongzhi feeling crestfallen and worried she couldn't mend the rift.
Back in the palace, Jiang Baoning spoke with Su Su, learning that Zhao Yi had exaggerated the Grand Empress Dowager’s illness to summon her. Jiang Baoning then noticed Su Su taking medicine and asked if she was unwell. Su Su, with reluctance, confessed that she had been pregnant but suffered a miscarriage due to an accident, believing it was not meant to be. Jiang Baoning offered her comfort, assuring her that she would have another child in the future.
Later, Empress Han confronted Zhao Yi, sarcastically questioning his sudden interest in visiting the Grand Empress Dowager only when Jiang Baoning was present. Zhao Yi, irked by her interference, retorted that his actions didn't require her approval and instructed her to focus on managing the harem and preparing for her own birthday ceremony. Angered, Empress Han vowed to make her ceremony so splendid that it would overshadow any of Zhao Yi's affections for Jiang Baoning.
That night, Jiang Baoning anxiously waited for Li Qian, growing worried as the palace curfew approached. She sent Wei Shu to investigate at the Gate of Divine Might. Wei Shu discovered Li Qian had been denied entry by the guards, who claimed he lacked proper authorization for palace access as a Superintendent. Despite Wei Shu's attempts to intervene, Li Qian stopped him, realizing the order likely came from higher up.
Li Qian instructed Wei Shu to return to Jiang Baoning, assure her of his safety, and tell her he would be staying at the Li family residence in the capital for the night, so she wouldn't worry. Upon hearing this, Jiang Baoning misinterpreted Li Qian's actions as a sign of anger. In the quiet of the night, He Cuihua lay awake, reflecting on Li Dongzhi.
She observed that her daughter had truly grown up, taking charge of the Charity House and even adopting a more ladylike appearance. While outwardly pleased, He Cuihua felt a sense of emptiness, lamenting that Li Dongzhi no longer seemed to need her constant guidance, a sentiment her husband found peculiar. The imperial physician reported to Jiang Baoning that the Grand Empress Dowager had fully recovered.
Feeling relieved, Jiang Baoning then went to see Li Qian, concerned that he might be angry about being barred from the palace. Upon meeting him, she used a wish he had previously granted her to ask him not to be upset, apologizing for the humiliation and her own oversight. Li Qian pulled her into a warm embrace, assuring her he wasn't angry.
He explained that he hadn't wanted to cause trouble for her while she was already worried about the Grand Empress Dowager. Furthermore, as an official from Bingzhou, he lacked the proper authorization for free palace entry, and forcing his way in would only give palace gossips an excuse to criticize them. He even joked that his predicaments stemmed from marrying a Commandery Princess.
Touched by his thoughtfulness, Jiang Baoning, as a reward, promised him the honor of "father getting honor through son." She also reassured him that her body was recuperating well thanks to a prescription from her aunt. The two then sweetly consummated their marriage. Later, while out shopping, He Cuihua encountered Li Dongzhi engaged in a heated argument with a vendor.
The vendor had sold Li Dongzhi an inferior hairpin after she had paid for a higher quality one and refused to exchange it. He Cuihua immediately stepped in, loudly exposing the vendor's deceptive practices to the surrounding crowd, shaming him until he returned the correct hairpin and the money difference. Afterward, He Cuihua sternly lectured Li Dongzhi, emphasizing that her daughter still needed her and shouldn't run away.
Li Dongzhi, overjoyed that her mother was speaking to her again, admitted her fault and revealed that the hairpin was a gift for He Cuihua. He Cuihua was deeply touched by her daughter's thoughtfulness. Li Dongzhi then expressed her wish for her mother to listen to her ideas and trust her more now that she was grown, hoping for a more collaborative relationship.
Although He Cuihua agreed, she almost immediately reverted to dictating Li Dongzhi's clothing choices, preferring her in feminine attire, to which Li Dongzhi, with a sigh, ultimately conceded. The next day, Jiang Baoning and Li Qian attempted to enter the palace, only to be stopped by the same guards at the Gate of Divine Might.
This time, Jiang Baoning firmly asserted her authority as a Commandery Princess, declaring herself Li Qian's "pass" and warning the guards of severe consequences if they dared to obstruct him again, regardless of who issued their orders. The guards, humbled, immediately apologized and allowed them to pass. Li Qian playfully teased Jiang Baoning, saying she was "too gentle" and he would help her vent her frustration next time. Inside, Li Qian apologized to the Grand Empress Dowager for his delay.
She welcomed him warmly, crediting her recovery to their visit. Soon after, Zhao Yi arrived, having been summoned by the Grand Empress Dowager. She immediately admonished him for the guards' disrespectful behavior in blocking her son-in-law, Li Qian. Zhao Yi promised to discipline them thoroughly.
Seizing the opportunity, the Grand Empress Dowager then declared herself fully recovered and insisted that Jiang Baoning and Li Qian return to Bingzhou at once, stating that Jiang Baoning, as a married woman, should not reside in the palace. She cited the recent incident with Li Qian as proof that some already found their presence "against the rules" and wished to avoid further gossip.
Despite Zhao Yi's attempts to persuade Jiang Baoning to stay longer, the Grand Empress Dowager firmly reiterated her decision, leaving Jiang Baoning and Li Qian no choice but to agree and depart. Elsewhere, Empress Han met with officials from the Ministry of Rites to discuss the preparations for her birthday ceremony. When presented with the comparison records, she dramatically burned them, declaring the Ministry of Rites negligent for "losing" such important documents.
She then threatened them with severe repercussions if the "loss" came to light, effectively forcing them to proceed with immediate procurement without further price comparison. She then turned her attention to an official from the Imperial Household Department, who had been deliberately stalling by "checking stock," and ordered him to allocate the necessary items at once. It was revealed that Zhao Yi had implicitly ordered these departments to delay cooperating with Empress Han.
Faced with Empress Han's forceful tactics, the two frustrated officials sought Zhao Yi's intervention, but he simply instructed them to "do what they should do," signaling his reluctant approval for them to proceed as Empress Han demanded. Later, Zhao Yi, on his own, ordered his eunuch, Du Sheng, to inspect his private treasury for funds to be allocated for disaster relief. After their return to Bingzhou, at the family dinner table, Jiang Baoning noticed He Cuihua had a poor appetite.
To cheer her up, Jiang Baoning presented her with the red agate earrings she had lost at the Li family residence in the capital. He Cuihua was overjoyed and asked if Jiang Baoning had made a special trip to retrieve them. Li Qian then casually mentioned that he and Jiang Baoning had spent the night there. Understanding the implied intimacy, He Cuihua immediately became ecstatic, instructing the servants to prepare nourishing tonics for Jiang Baoning to aid in conception.
Jiang Baoning was visibly embarrassed by her mother-in-law's directness. At the Charity House, Li Dongzhi was tending to the disaster victims when she observed a woman becoming hysterical at the sight of a fire, leading Li Dongzhi to quickly assist her. Meanwhile, Gao Fuyu praised the Charity House's success to Li Changqing, acknowledging Jiang Baoning's significant contributions and praising her as an excellent daughter-in-law for bringing glory to the Li family and for attributing all the credit to Li Qian.
Li Changqing readily agreed. Feeling it was his duty as Jiang Baoning's father-in-law to also contribute, Li Changqing summoned Li Lin. He instructed Li Lin to withdraw funds that he had entrusted to him for general use and use them to purchase 5,000 "dans" of rice and 4,000 "jins" of cotton for the Charity House to prepare for winter, emphasizing that Jiang Baoning shouldn't bear the burden alone.
Li Lin then approached Gao Miaorong, who confessed that the funds had been invested in an illegal money house and could not be immediately retrieved. Li Lin expressed alarm, warning that his uncle would hold them accountable if the supplies were delayed. Gao Miaorong, undeterred, suggested Li Lin use his own emergency funds as a temporary solution.
When Li Lin highlighted the large quantities required, Gao Miaorong proposed an unethical plan: purchasing thousands of "dans" of moldy rice from a wealthy man in a neighboring county, claiming it was merely unappetizing but edible for the starving victims, and adulterating the cotton with sand to meet the weight requirements. Li Lin was initially hesitant, but Gao Miaorong then feigned deep distress, offering to take all the blame herself.
Seeing her apparent sacrifice, Li Lin, swayed by her manipulation, reluctantly agreed to her scheme. Tragedy struck the Charity House when a young boy named Chuanwa succumbed to a sudden illness, experiencing high fever and severe vomiting. His mother and other victims quickly suspected the moldy rice they had been eating, noting its distinctive smell.
Li Dongzhi rushed to inform Jiang Baoning of Chuanwa's death, explaining that while moldy rice usually only caused mild symptoms, it could be fatal for those with weak digestive systems. Jiang Baoning immediately dispatched Li Dongzhi back to the Charity House to verify the presence of moldy rice. Soon after, a furious mob, led by Chuanwa’s mother carrying her deceased child, gathered outside the Li family residence, demanding justice.
They accused Jiang Baoning of establishing the Charity House under false pretenses, claiming she used it to "amass wealth" and "fill her own pockets" by procuring moldy rice, which led to Chuanwa’s death. When He Cuihua opened the gate, she was met with a barrage of thrown vegetables. Gao Miaorong seized the moment to publicly chastise Jiang Baoning for bringing scandal upon the Li family.
Jiang Baoning stepped forward, expressing her profound apologies and reiterating the Li family's genuine benevolent intentions. She requested a few days to investigate, promising to provide a satisfactory explanation. Another woman then came forward, displaying a winter coat provided by the Charity House, revealing that half of the cotton stuffing was mixed with sand, questioning if they were expected to freeze to death. Jiang Baoning, visibly distraught, examined the adulterated cotton herself.
She again appealed for a few days to conduct a thorough investigation, then publicly announced that she would contribute 5,000 taels of silver from her own funds to immediately purchase new, quality rice and cotton, and vowed to personally assume all responsibility for any similar incidents in the future. Just as the crowd seemed to calm, a man, secretly incited to cause further trouble, saw the silver and immediately began shouting, urging the villagers to snatch the money. Providentially, Li Qian arrived at that very moment, swiftly intervening to apprehend the instigator and restore order.
Episode 25 Recap
Li Qian arrived with his troops, warning everyone that any instigators of the unrest would be arrested. Later, he gently tended to Jiang Baoning's wounds, reassuring her that he would uncover the mastermind behind the charity house incident, despite her apology for causing him trouble. He advised her to rest at home and avoid going out while he investigated. Meanwhile, Jin Xiao noticed Cai Shuang acting suspiciously and followed him.
He saw Cai Shuang meeting Zhao Xiao, where the military pay was mentioned. Jin Xiao reported his suspicions to Li Qian, highlighting Zhao Xiao's arrogance and Cai Shuang's furtive behavior, suggesting a secret between them. Li Qian, concerned about the delayed military pay affecting troop morale, asked Jin Xiao to investigate Cai Shuang's background, to which Jin Xiao enthusiastically agreed. Jin Xiao's continued surveillance led him to observe Cai Shuang entering a draper with a large sum of silver.
Dong Shanhu, feeling guilty about Jiang Baoning's injury from the charity house incident, visited her. While Shanhu felt the refugees were ungrateful, Baoning empathized with the mother who lost her six-year-old child. Baoning explained her oversight in managing the charity house, noting that purchased and donated supplies were mixed, making it difficult to trace the source of the moldy rice and cotton with sand.
Unable to go out herself, Baoning asked Shanhu to visit the charity house and also investigate a lead from Nanny Tian about merchants and officials in Jinxi secretly operating illegal money houses. Shanhu, who had already heard rumors of such illicit activities and their detrimental impact on legitimate businesses, was given Baoning's full support to pursue her leads without fear of alerting the culprits.
Coincidentally, Jin Xiao, fleeing his father's attempts to force marriage upon him, met a subordinate who had discovered an illegal money house in Jinxi run by a powerful woman, not news about Cai Shuang. Jin Xiao immediately led his men to the draper he'd seen Cai Shuang enter. There, he found Dong Shanhu burning account books and, assuming she was the mastermind destroying evidence, arrested her.
Shanhu vehemently denied it, claiming the owner had fled and the account book wasn't hers. Jin Xiao, unconvinced, ordered her taken away. In custody, Shanhu defiantly challenged Jin Xiao, questioning his authority and lack of evidence. Jin Xiao presented his "case," citing her renowned business acumen as proof of her capability to run such an illegal operation, which Shanhu found insulting and false. Angered, she grabbed his collar, urging him to catch the real criminal instead of wasting time.
Just then, a subordinate announced that Commandery Princess Jia’nan personally demanded Shanhu's release, forcing Jin Xiao to comply. Li Qian and Jiang Baoning invited Jin Xiao and Dong Shanhu to their home. Baoning clarified the misunderstanding, explaining she had asked Shanhu to investigate the charity house. Li Qian instructed Jin Xiao to apologize to Shanhu, which he did grudgingly.
Their subsequent bickering amused Li Qian and Baoning, who observed them as if flirting, much to Shanhu and Jin Xiao's mutual annoyance. The four then discussed the illegal money house. Shanhu recounted her earlier visit to Fengtai Draper. She had noticed the shopkeeper, Ms. Lu, acting suspiciously and, after pointing out the counterfeit nature of the "official embroidery" Ms. Lu tried to sell her, was rudely driven out. Shanhu suspected it was an illegal establishment.
After she left, Ms. Lu frantically began burning the account books, but Shanhu rushed back in, salvaging a partially burned ledger before Ms. Lu fled. Examining the ledger, Baoning quickly identified an entry for brocade purchases at an inflated price, confirming false accounting. This, she noted, could be used to trace the suppliers. Li Qian proposed that Jin Xiao arrest the managers involved, isolate them for interrogation, and encourage them to expose each other to find the true mastermind.
Meanwhile, Zhao Xiao instructed his subordinate to secretly monitor Li Qian and Jin Xiao's activities. Madam Zhuang, fearing exposure of her illegal money house after the draper's closure, sought Gao Miaorong's advice. Gao Miaorong calmly suggested that Commandery Princess Jia’nan was responsible for the investigation and advised Madam Zhuang to write to her brother-in-law, Zhuang Li. As a favored student of Chief Councilor Wang Jidao, Zhuang Li could influence Wang Jidao to impeach Commandery Princess Jia’nan before the Emperor.
Consequently, Wang Jidao and Zhuang Li accused Baoning of abusing her status in Bingzhou to run a corrupt charity house and supply moldy rice to refugees, demanding an imperial investigation. The Grand Empress Dowager, hearing the false accusations, confronted the Emperor, who assured her of Baoning's safety. She then fiercely questioned Zhuang Li's baseless accusations and Wang Jidao's motives for targeting Baoning, contrasting his current actions with his past silence during a national crisis.
Empress Han Tongxin arrived unsummoned, accusing the Grand Empress Dowager of favoritism towards Baoning over the populace. When challenged for proof, Han Tongxin asserted her right as Empress to judge Baoning. The Emperor, growing angry, ordered her to withdraw. Han Tongxin, unwilling to relent, further inflamed him by mentioning Baoning's marriage, arranged by the Grand Empress Dowager. Enraged, the Emperor slapped her.
In a fit of pique, Han Tongxin attempted to confine the Grand Empress Dowager due to her age, causing the elderly woman to faint. Later, in her chambers, Han Tongxin blamed Baoning for everything, but was eventually persuaded by her palace maid to apologize to the Grand Empress Dowager. The Grand Empress Dowager accepted her apology but advised her to become a competent Empress to earn the Emperor's affection.
Baoning learned of the Grand Empress Dowager's illness, caused by Han Tongxin after Zhuang Li's impeachment. While Qingke suspected Madam Zhuang was behind the impeachment, Baoning believed there was a deeper, more urgent reason for Madam Zhuang's desperation to harm her. To alleviate the Grand Empress Dowager's worry, Baoning wrote a reassuring letter, which Li Qian promptly dispatched to the capital.
Li Qian then revealed that Sun Laosan, an arrested shop manager, had confessed that Ms. Lu, the Fengtai Draper shopkeeper, used various small, seemingly legitimate shops to operate a clandestine illegal money house for money laundering. He also revealed Ms. Lu's hideout: Fortune Inn. Li Qian was preparing to arrest her. Baoning, however, suspected a powerful mastermind behind Ms. Lu and feared a direct arrest would alert this person.
Li Qian, anxious to clear Baoning's name after the impeachment, wanted to act quickly. Baoning, determined to protect her loved ones, proposed using herself as bait to draw out the true culprit. Despite Li Qian's initial objections for her safety, she convinced him, and he agreed to accompany her, disguised as a servant, for protection. At Fortune Inn, Baoning deliberately used specific code words and offered a large sum of silver to prompt a meeting with the owner.
Ms. Lu, recognizing Commandery Princess Jia’nan and impressed by her knowledge of the inn's secrets, agreed to do business. Baoning then demanded to meet Ms. Lu's "supervisor," who turned out to be Cai Shuang. Realizing his scheme was exposed, Cai Shuang fatally stabbed Ms. Lu and fled. Li Qian immediately pursued him, but Zhao Xiao suddenly appeared, apprehended Cai Shuang, and declared that Cai Shuang was under his jurisdiction, warning Li Qian to stay out of it.
As Li Qian and Zhao Xiao brawled in the street, Cai Shuang escaped. Baoning, after sending her servant for reinforcements, chased after Cai Shuang and incapacitated him with a tranquilizing drug.
Episode 26 Recap
Li Qian asked Junior General Jin to interrogate Cai Shuang about the military supplies. Junior General Jin threatened Cai Shuang with torture, stating that no one in Bingzhou, the Li Family’s territory, could save him. Fearing the impending torment, Cai Shuang immediately confessed everything. Following his confession, Madam Zhuang and her daughter were arrested and imprisoned.
Cai Shuang was formally sentenced to one hundred strokes, expelled from the military, and barred from future service for abusing his power, diverting military pay, engaging in corruption for exorbitant profits, and causing the Xuanjia Battalion to suffer from lack of food and clothing. Upon returning to the Li Mansion, Li Changqing was furious to learn about the moldy rice and sand-filled cotton uniforms, which had led to a refugee’s death and caused severe problems for the military.
Hu Yiliang had given him only three days to provide a satisfactory answer. Li Lin stepped forward, taking full responsibility for all the wrongdoings. Earlier, Li Lin had privately sought out Li Qian to inquire if Cai Shuang’s interrogation had implicated Gao Miaorong. Concerned that a woman with a ruined reputation would struggle to find a good husband, Li Lin had knelt and begged Li Qian to spare her.
Out of respect for his cousin’s plea, Li Qian had not exposed Gao Miaorong’s involvement at that time. However, Baoning pointed out that Li Lin, who only managed the family's sundry affairs, could not have collaborated with official trading houses without Li Changqing's private seal. She warned that a deeper investigation would inevitably implicate the entire Li family, potentially leading to their extermination.
Li Changqing, perplexed by who would dare to steal his private seal, was then confronted by Gao Fuyu’s confession. Recalling that he had seen Gao Miaorong secretly entering Li Changqing’s study, Gao Fuyu stepped forward to protect his niece, admitting that he himself had stolen the seal for personal gain.
He also confessed to persuading Li Lin to divert the funds initially meant for the charity house, which led to the purchase of moldy rice and sand-filled cotton to cover the deficit, and admitted his involvement in illegal money houses. Li Changqing, deeply disappointed and heartbroken by Gao Fuyu’s betrayal, ordered him to be sent to the government office for punishment. Seeing her uncle about to be taken away, Gao Miaorong desperately begged Li Changqing to spare him.
She then threatened that a thorough investigation would also expose the Li family, revealing that He Cuihua's monthly revenue from usury was sourced from illegal money houses. Upon hearing this, Li Changqing angrily rebuked He Cuihua, but found himself in a helpless situation. Baoning intervened, noting that, given the widespread nature of illegal money houses, pursuing individual blame was pointless.
She suggested minimizing the losses by temporarily using her own dowry to cover the deficit, with plans to recover the funds later. Gao Fuyu reaffirmed his willingness to take full responsibility before the authorities, ensuring the Li family would not be further implicated. Li Changqing reluctantly agreed. Meanwhile, with only half a month left until her birthday, Empress Han Tongxin announced her decision to cancel the grand celebration and allocate the funds for disaster relief.
This act of compassion earned her widespread praise from the officials. In the imperial court, Zhuang Li prostrated himself before Emperor Zhao Yi, pleading for justice for his brother, Zhuang Shu, whom he claimed was framed in Jinxi. An enraged Zhao Yi then produced irrefutable evidence of Zhuang Shu’s crimes, including multiple capital offenses, forcing Zhuang Li to beg for mercy. Chief Councilor Wang Jidao, witnessing his former student’s corrupt and deceitful actions, publicly disowned him.
Ultimately, Zhao Yi stripped Zhuang Li of his official position, declaring him a commoner, for sheltering his relative, falsely accusing the Commandery Princess, and disrespecting the state. Zhuang Li was then sent to the Ministry of Punishments for interrogation. Wang Jidao was also punished with six months' docked pay and was grounded for half a month for allowing his apprentice to commit such widespread evil.
Separately, Zhao Xiao confronted Li Qian regarding the recovered military pay that had not been returned to the Commissariat. Li Qian revealed that Zhao Xiao had been misled, and that Baoning had been forced to use her dowry to cover his mistake. He urged Zhao Xiao to recognize his true position and cease his foolish actions, warning him of severe consequences should similar incidents occur again.
Ashamed to remain in the Li Mansion, Li Lin decided to leave and invited Gao Miaorong to start a new life with him elsewhere. However, Gao Miaorong, unwilling to accept such a fate, refused his offer. Disappointed, Li Lin departed alone. Gao Miaorong then visited Gao Fuyu in prison, where he was awaiting exile to the borderland in three days. He told her that this would be their last meeting and advised her to take care of herself.
Gao Fuyu had sacrificed his future, and Li Lin was forced to leave, all to protect Gao Miaorong. Yet, she felt no gratitude, instead believing Li Qian was indebted to her. She expressed her bitter resentment that Li Qian had married Baoning, convinced that without Baoning, she would have married Li Qian and had a fulfilling life.
Li Qian, however, made it clear that even without Baoning, there would never have been any talk of marriage between him and Gao Miaorong. Later, upon hearing that the Emperor was promoting Baoning, Gao Miaorong, still consumed by delusion, internally vowed to one day make Baoning lose everything she had. Baoning, having secretly witnessed Li Qian’s conversation with Gao Miaorong, became jealous. Li Qian, sensing her displeasure, reassured her of his true feelings.
He explained that he had only spared Gao Miaorong due to Li Lin’s unprecedented plea and the sacrifices of both Li Lin and Gao Fuyu. He emphasized that Gao Miaorong had always been, and would always remain, like a younger sister to him. Meanwhile, Li Dongzhi, while on a mission outside the city, was ambushed and surrounded by enemy forces, only to be rescued by Siqin.
Siqin explained that Qing An had never intended to deceive Dongzhi; he genuinely loved her and had even escorted her to the pharmacy house in Sanyuan Town. Siqin revealed that Qing An had, with the help of the Dark Force his father left him, allied with generals against Qing Tai to overthrow his tyrannical rule. However, their coup failed, and Qing An was killed in an ambush.
Before his death, he had entrusted his ring to Siqin, asking him to tell Dongzhi he had never betrayed her. Upon learning of her beloved’s death, Dongzhi broke down in tears. Baoning and Qingke went to the market, where they encountered a trafficker attempting to abduct a child. Baoning bravely intervened to rescue the child, sustaining an injury to her hand in the process. On the day of the Empress’s canceled birthday, Han Tongxin had no appetite.
Unexpectedly, Emperor Zhao Yi had secretly arranged a celebratory feast, praising her decision to prioritize disaster relief. Overwhelmed by his attention, Han Tongxin was deeply touched. Zhao Yi then tenderly escorted the inebriated Empress to her chambers, where the couple spent a warm, intimate night. Baoning had concealed her hand injury from Li Qian. However, a busy Li Qian unexpectedly returned early from his duties.
When Xiaoman arrived to report that the trafficker had been arrested, Li Qian overheard her, forcing Baoning to truthfully recount the incident. Elsewhere, Zhao Xiao had been diligently training his martial arts every day. Marquis Jinghai urged his son to return to Nanmin, but Zhao Xiao remained stubbornly fixated on his ambition. Marquis Jinghai sternly rebuked Zhao Xiao for his self-pity and degradation over a woman, chastising him for abandoning himself.
He advised Zhao Xiao to grow up and learn to face the thorny and arduous path that lay ahead without his father's protection. Zhao Xiao, determined, vowed to his father that he would one day prove that Li Qian would be his defeated rival.
Episode 27 Recap
Li Qian, determined to improve Baoning's physical fitness, woke her at five in the morning for martial arts training. Baoning, still sleepy, resisted, stating she had her own "secret weapon" and preferred to sleep. Li Qian, however, insisted, explaining her body was "too weak," and worried about her safety if he wasn't by her side. He then reminded her that she had personally signed the family rules the previous night, which stipulated morning martial arts practice.
If she refused, she would face "punishment according to the family rules," specifically "ten lashes for a mistake." Baoning protested the "corporal punishment," arguing it was unfair for a princess, but Li Qian firmly stated, "There are laws in a country and rules in a family. Nothing can be accomplished without rules," reminding her of her own past words. Baoning then challenged him to take "double punishment" if he erred, which Li Qian accepted, much to her surprise.
Li Qian then became a strict tutor, leading Baoning on a grueling run, followed by squats. He explained that squatting was "the basic skill of martial arts," crucial for "keeping fit," "promoting fitness, invigorating kidney, and regulating energy," emphasizing that "practicing martial arts is about practicing Kungfu, and waist is essential to Kungfu." Baoning complained that Li Qian was a "devil" for making her train so early and leaving her feeling perpetually hungry.
Later, she snuck into the kitchen to find food but was caught by Li Qian, who accused her of slacking off. Baoning tearfully explained her hunger, prompting Li Qian to personally prepare a bowl of noodles for her. As they ate, Baoning requested garlic, a Jinxi tradition, noting no one had made her longevity noodles since her mother passed away.
After the meal, Li Qian led Baoning through stretching exercises, which caused her considerable pain due to her lack of prior training. Wei Shu then arrived with an urgent military report, requiring Li Qian to leave for the camp. Before departing, Li Qian instructed Baoning to continue practicing and not to slack off, leaving Wei Shu behind to supervise her. Baoning quickly realized Wei Shu was specifically instructed to "attend on" her, meaning to "supervise me."
After a full day of exhausting training, Baoning was sore and aching. To avoid violating the family rules and facing punishment, she devised a plan for the next day: Qingke would impersonate her during morning training. The following morning, Qingke dressed in Baoning's clothes and began the exercises. Baoning, confident she had successfully dodged her responsibilities, was celebrating her cleverness when Li Qian unexpectedly returned home and discovered the deception.
Furious, Li Qian punished Baoning, Qingke, and Wei Shu, ordering all three to "do squats for four hours," adding that "The person who spills the water first will do squats for four more hours." Determined to avoid further training, Baoning secretly added "a little of diarrhea grass" to Wei Shu's drink. However, Li Qian again saw through her trickery and informed her that he would conduct a "test three days later." Baoning then resorted to feigning a severe stomachache.
Observing her discomfort, and realizing his primary goal was her health and self-defense skills rather than strict adherence to a regimen, Li Qian instructed Wei Shu to no longer supervise Baoning. The next morning, Li Qian took an early detour to the suburbs, purchasing pastries from a shop that once "provided pastry to the capital," which Baoning would find familiar.
He also asked Wei Shu to collect a roadside plant to cultivate in the west yard, hoping "The Princess might feel better seeing this when she practices martial arts" and adding "Maybe it will bloom next year." However, Baoning, noticing the new flower and perhaps a little too relaxed, accidentally twisted her ankle, which deeply distressed Li Qian. He gently chided her, saying his goal was "just to let you be able to defend yourself. Now you are limping."
Jin Xiao visited Li Qian to report that all matters concerning the charity house had been resolved, including the distribution of pensions, compensation for wounded soldiers' families, and the burning of spoiled supplies. He also mentioned the expulsion of troublesome victims. Jin Xiao then playfully suggested that Li Qian should spend more time with Baoning and inquired about them having children.
He joked that Li Qian could only truly "increase your status through your child and keep your position as the Commandery Prince." He then recommended visiting the "Maiden Who Brings Children" at Daxiangguo Temple, known for its efficacy, for "your future." Despite initially dismissing the suggestion as foolish, Li Qian, seeing Baoning’s lingering unhappiness, decided to take her to the temple.
He wanted to cheer her up and sincerely prayed for "a pair of children" so that he could "increase my status through my children and let me be favored by the Princess for my lifetime." Baoning found his prayer amusing, playfully reminding him not to "laugh in front of the Buddhism Goddess."
Li Qian then revealed his deeper fear: Baoning was "too strong, too smart, and too independent," and he worried she might find him "boring one day and leave me." Baoning reassured him she was not "irresponsible" and would only leave if he did "something awful to me and break my heart." Li Qian swore he would "never do that to you." At the temple, Baoning drew an "eighth sign," a "short straw," interpreted as "A broken boat on the beach."
The ominous reading, combined with her continued anxiety about the Grand Empress Dowager, who had fallen ill due to Han Tongxin's actions and from whom she had received no news, made her despondent. Li Qian comforted her, saying she "worried too much" and "burdening yourself for nothing," assuring her that the Grand Empress Dowager "will be happy and recover without medical help" upon learning of Baoning's acquittal.
He promised to send someone to the capital to gather information by the next day if no news arrived. To express her gratitude and fulfill his "favored for life" wish, Baoning generously bought him a cart full of toys, which greatly amused Li Qian, though he humorously corrected her that his actual wish was to "increase my honor through my children."
Still troubled by the bad omen, Baoning and Qingke returned to Daxiangguo Temple the next day to donate incense money, hoping to "eliminate disasters and get rid of bad luck." On their way back, they encountered Zhao Xiao, who was heavily intoxicated and being harassed by a waiter for an unpaid bill of "seven pots of wine," amounting to three taels of silver. Baoning, out of kindness, paid for him.
A drunken Zhao Xiao recognized Baoning and, ignoring her pleas for him to "behave yourself," passionately declared she was destined to be his wife, lamenting that Li Qian had "took you away from me." He then tried to make her "Go with me, Baoning." Just then, Li Qian appeared, stating, "If I come later, my wife will be stolen from me." Enraged, Zhao Xiao declared, "You stole my wife from me. I hate you.
Let’s settle what’s between us today," and Li Qian accepted, "I’ll play along." As the two men fought, Baoning tried to intervene and was accidentally injured. Back at the mansion, Baoning, furious, refused to see Li Qian, telling him to "Go away. I don’t want to see you." Desperate to earn her forgiveness, Li Qian performed the ritual of "carrying thorns to ask for punishment," citing family rule number two: "don’t make the Princess angry because of anyone or anything."
Stripped to the waist in the cold, he admitted his mistakes: fighting with Zhao Xiao, accidentally hurting her, and "speak arrogantly in public." He confessed, "I’m afraid to lose you." Seeing his sincere repentance, Baoning, despite the cold, told him, "Just get in," and eventually forgave him. Meanwhile, He Cuihua, having observed Li Qian’s contrite and gentle behavior toward Baoning, demanded that Li Changqing serve her by getting "water to wash my feet" and treating her with similar tenderness.
Li Changqing, exasperated, threatened to make her "sleep outside" if she "keep being unreasonable." The next day, Li Changqing called Li Qian for a lecture, emphasizing a husband's authority and lamenting that his son, a man who "seek career and fame out there," shouldn't "act like a tyrant at home" or be "afraid of his wife." Li Qian respectfully offered a "different point of view," arguing that "Husband and wife are inseparable," and true harmony "shouldn’t resort to fear."
He advocated for mutual love, support, and praise for a "long-lasting" relationship, asserting that a man "is supposed to be tolerant" and "shouldn’t bother about the trifles." He Cuihua, secretly eavesdropping, enthusiastically approved of Li Qian's words, though Li Changqing scolded her for her "bolder" act. Li Qian defended his mother, reminding his father that "Mother did a lot for the Li Family.
You should treat her better," concluding that "To support each other and stay with each other is the right way to maintain a relationship." Later, Zhao Xiao, sobered and remorseful, came to apologize to Baoning for injuring her. To avoid any misunderstanding, Baoning chose not to meet him face-to-face, instead having Qingke return the jade pendant he had given her as a wedding gift.
Baoning conveyed that the pendant was "too expensive" and hoped he would "give it to someone who deserves it" and "meet someone you love one day." Devastated, Zhao Xiao felt that "I won’t love anyone else after I lost you." Leaving the Li mansion, he impulsively threw the jade pendant to a beggar. Shortly after, Zhao Xiao encountered Cai Shuang in the city. Remembering Cai Shuang’s past deception regarding military pay, Zhao Xiao lashed out, beating him.
Cai Shuang begged for mercy, claiming he was "deceived by someone else" and that "I was given 100 floggings, and my legs are broken now. I’m disabled for the rest of my life." Zhao Xiao, however, simply told him to "Piss off! From now on, don’t let me see you again!" Back home, Baoning became engrossed in researching weapon designs. She found herself struggling with a particular design, feeling "there is something missing."
Realizing Grand Mentor Xiong was "knowledgeable" and might know "capable people who might know something about it," she wrote a letter to him in the capital, requesting Qingke to ensure its speedy and personal delivery. Her intense focus led her to neglect meals and sleep, which puzzled Li Qian. She then asked him if his camp had any skilled "weapon designers" she could "borrow a few" to help her.
Episode 28 Recap
Dong Shanhu visited Jiang Baoning to personally invite her to the grand opening of Villa Mingyue, a new establishment run by Dong’s Trading House. Jiang Baoning, who had been exhausted from working day and night with weapon designers to develop new armaments, agreed to attend the ceremony in three days. Meanwhile, Gao Miaorong’s maid lamented how people had abandoned Gao Miaorong after the Zhuang family’s downfall, despite their previous fawning.
Gao Miaorong, however, dismissed these fair-weather friends as "clowns" and human nature, claiming she did not care for their opinions. Upon hearing about the Villa Mingyue opening and Jiang Baoning's invitation, Gao Miaorong decided she would attend the "interesting place" and secretly tasked her maid, Guanju, with a mission. Gao Miaorong then went to He Cuihua, who was displeased that Dong Shanhu had extended an invitation directly to Jiang Baoning, seemingly disrespecting her as Li Qian’s mother.
Gao Miaorong subtly fanned He Cuihua’s resentment, suggesting that He Cuihua’s absence might fuel rumors of discord between her and Jiang Baoning. To seal her persuasion, Gao Miaorong mentioned that the renowned Yongfu Troupe and its leader, Cheng Xiaoyun, whom He Cuihua greatly admired, would be performing at the opening. This convinced He Cuihua to go. Three days later, at the opening ceremony, Jiang Baoning struggled to stay awake. Li Qian, noticing her exhaustion, suggested she return home.
However, Jiang Baoning worried about gossip if she left early. Li Qian then arranged with Dong Shanhu for Jiang Baoning to rest in Room 1, the best guest room in the villa. Jiang Baoning sent her maid, Qingke, to enjoy the opera, assuring her that the two maids assigned to the room would keep watch. Shortly after, the maids guarding Jiang Baoning heard that the Yongfu Troupe's head was distributing money for good luck.
Believing Jiang Baoning would not wake for a while, they abandoned their posts to join the crowd. Zhao Xiao arrived at Villa Mingyue and was disappointed not to find Jiang Baoning. He then spotted Cai Shuang, whom he recognized as a crippled man, and followed him into a tearoom. Inside, he found only Gao Miaorong, who denied anyone else had entered, warning Zhao Xiao not to ruin an "unmarried girl's reputation" with his "momentary mistake." Zhao Xiao, unconvinced, left.
Later, Li Qian approached Zhao Xiao to apologize for their previous street altercation. Zhao Xiao, in turn, asked Li Qian if Gao Miaorong and Cai Shuang had any private dealings, recounting his suspicious encounter in the tearoom. Realizing something was amiss, Li Qian quickly left to check on Jiang Baoning. Jiang Baoning awoke to Cai Shuang entering her room. She soon realized the incense in the room was a tranquilizing drug, rendering her immobile.
Cai Shuang, seething with anger, blamed Jiang Baoning and Li Qian for his capture, the one hundred floggings that broke his leg, and the ruin of his career. He vowed to inflict "ten times, even a hundred times" the suffering upon them. Jiang Baoning, remembering Li Qian’s martial arts training, focused her remaining strength and managed to kick Cai Shuang away. Just then, Li Qian burst in, knocking Cai Shuang unconscious.
Jiang Baoning, still dazed, proudly believed she had defeated Cai Shuang herself. Outside the room, Gao Miaorong tried to lead He Cuihua into Jiang Baoning’s room, ostensibly to check on her, but likely hoping to expose Jiang Baoning’s compromised situation. However, Jin Xiao and Dong Shanhu intervened.
Jin Xiao claimed Jiang Baoning was merely "not feeling well," and Dong Shanhu urged He Cuihua to return to the banquet, reassuring her that everything was fine and that Li Qian was with Jiang Baoning. He Cuihua left, still worried. Jin Xiao then privately confronted Dong Shanhu, explaining Cai Shuang’s infiltration and attempted assault on Jiang Baoning, and warned her to investigate thoroughly and offer Li Qian a proper explanation to avoid severe consequences for the Dong family.
That night, Li Qian brought Gao Miaorong before Li Changqing and He Cuihua, directly questioning her involvement in Jiang Baoning’s attack. Gao Miaorong feigned ignorance, claiming she and Guanju had been with He Cuihua all day, save for a brief fifteen-minute period when she made tea. He Cuihua corroborated this, believing the time too short for any wrongdoing.
Li Qian then revealed Zhao Xiao’s testimony about seeing Cai Shuang disappear into the tearoom where Gao Miaorong was, and her subsequent lie. Gao Miaorong attempted to discredit Zhao Xiao, but Li Qian silenced her. Li Qian then presented a witness from the Yongfu Troupe, brought by Dong’s Trading House.
The witness confessed that Gao Miaorong had paid him five hundred taels of silver to help Cai Shuang sneak into Villa Mingyue with the troupe and place incense containing a tranquilizing drug in Room 1. With the banknotes presented as evidence, Gao Miaorong’s facade shattered. She lashed out at He Cuihua, calling her "short-sighted" and "vulgar," and condemned Li Changqing for cruelly sending her uncle, Gao Fuyu, into prison despite his loyalty.
She bitterly declared that everyone in the Li family was a "villain in disguise" and accused Jiang Baoning of "stealing the man who was supposed to be mine" and taking "everything from me." As Li Qian began to angrily rebuke her, Gao Miaorong seized his sword, asking if he hated her and wanted to avenge Jiang Baoning, then shockingly cut off one of her own fingers, leaving everyone stunned.
Later, Li Qian comforted a recovering Jiang Baoning, who asked if he was saddened by Gao Miaorong’s fate, acknowledging her as his childhood sweetheart. Li Qian replied that his sorrow stemmed from failing to protect Jiang Baoning once again. He informed her that his father, out of respect for her uncle, spared Gao Miaorong's life, but she was not permitted to remain in the Li mansion.
Gao Miaorong, who had cut off a finger, had already packed up and left that night. Disheartened, Gao Miaorong wandered the streets. Cai Shuang, who had escaped Villa Mingyue, found her. He blamed her for his downfall, the loss of his government position, and his broken legs, and proceeded to assault her, claiming she "must make up for me." Li Lin arrived and rescued Gao Miaorong.
He comforted her, promising to "avenge you" and never let anyone hurt her again, and proposed they "forget the past" and "have a new start." Gao Miaorong, feeling unworthy, told him she did not deserve his care. Meanwhile, Qing Tai, the ruler of Yongqing State, rallied his refreshed army to challenge Zhao Yi, the emperor of the Mu'an State. The Old Witch presented Qing An to Qing Tai.
At Yunlin Pass, where Zhao Xiao had been previously dispatched to guard, an officer, Dongzhi, observed a caravan attempting to enter the city. The gate guards, recognizing the goods as belonging to "Master An" and destined for Dong’s Trading House, allowed the caravan to pass without thorough inspection. This caravan was, in fact, Qing An and his men, sent by Qing Tai to infiltrate Yunlin Pass.
Qing Tai’s plan was to divide his forces, using two groups to distract the enemy and, with the assistance of Qing An's men inside the pass, break through the defenses and invade the capital. Back in the capital, Jiang Baoning confided in Li Qian that she felt "unsettled, like something bad is going to happen." Li Qian soon learned of Yongqing State’s sudden and full-scale invasion.
He immediately requested to lead the Xuanjia Battalion into battle and ordered the evacuation of city residents, ensuring his own family's safety as well. Dongzhi was organizing city defenses when a group of armed men appeared, led by Qing An. Qing An, appearing not to recognize Dongzhi, struck her down and was then ordered by his men to open the city gates. As the Yongqing army reached the city walls, Li Qian and his forces valiantly struggled to defend the gates, while the wounded Dongzhi was rushed away for treatment.
Episode 29 Recap
Li Qian and Jin Xiao jointly faced the Yongqing forces, working together to repel the enemy. Meanwhile, a messenger arrived at Zhao Xiao's home, urgently requesting his return to Nanmin to save the Marquis of Jinghai. It was revealed that the military pay the Marquis had provided to Zhao Xiao was initially for suppressing sea pirates. However, this year the pirates attacked prematurely, overwhelming the coastal defenses, and the Marquis was critically wounded with little time left.
Li Qian found it illogical that the Yongqing soldiers were so easily driven back. Just then, an officer reported that Zhao Xiao, the commander of Yunlin Pass, had deserted his post, leaving behind his resignation to go to Nanmin. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Li Qian and Jin Xiao immediately set off to reinforce Yunlin Pass.
At the Li Mansion, Baoning knelt before the Buddha, praying for Mu’an State’s prosperity, her family's safety, and her husband Li Qian’s safe return. To ensure the security of her home, Baoning subsequently instructed the housekeeper to increase the manor's defenses with more guards. The Yongqing State successfully breached Yunlin Pass and advanced rapidly towards the Mu’an capital. Concurrently, the Nanmin pirates continued their rampage, plunging Mu’an into chaos, and putting the capital in grave danger.
Urgent pleas for reinforcements streamed in from across the country. Emperor Zhao Yi, facing shortages of troops and provisions, was overwhelmed. He had already ordered The Archduke to deploy all the Jiang family's troops, leaving the capital without defenders. During this crisis, Fang Yiru returned to the palace from Longevity Hill with Prince Zhao Xi to accompany the Emperor. Yongqing soldiers rampaged through the city, slaughtering innocent civilians. Dongzhi secretly worked to rescue scattered residents.
Li Qian and Jin Xiao led their men to repel the invading forces, then ordered the city sealed before rushing to aid the capital. The Li Mansion was also targeted by bandits, but the elderly women and children inside were unable to resist. Baoning bravely revealed a newly developed weapon, whose immense power intimidated the bandits, forcing them to retreat.
However, concerned about its destructive potential and unpredictable nature, Baoning instructed Qingke to store it away to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands and causing further harm. In the imperial bedchamber, Zhao Yi was conversing with Fang Yiru when the Empress, consumed by jealousy, slapped Fang Yiru. This enraged Zhao Yi, who threatened to depose her.
Empress Dowager Cao then arrived, reprimanding the Empress for her undignified behavior and ordering Fang Yiru to be taken back to Longevity Hill. A rift had already formed between Zhao Yi and the Empress Dowager, and he regarded her with caution. Seeing the Emperor's distrust, Empress Dowager Cao clarified that she no longer desired to interfere in state affairs.
Her only wish was to peacefully raise Zhao Xi and urged Zhao Yi to take care of his health and become a wise ruler worthy of Mu’an's people. Plagued by internal strife and external threats, Zhao Yi's health steadily declined. He secretly sent a message to Baoning in Jinxi. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiao hurried back to Nanmin, but arrived too late to see his father, the Marquis, one last time.
Overcome with guilt for the past mistakes that had implicated his clan, Zhao Xiao vowed that the Zhao family would not have sacrificed in vain. Eunuch Du arrived in Jinxi with imperial edicts from Zhao Yi.
Knowing Baoning was the only person he could truly trust, Zhao Yi had prepared a decree entrusting her with the regency and the care of the heir, Zhao Xi, and a second, secret edict stating that if the First Prince met harm, the throne would pass to a distant imperial uncle. Upon seeing Zhao Yi's "will," Baoning chastised the Emperor for his short-sightedness.
She concealed the second edict and personally drafted a fabricated imperial edict calling for troops to defend the Emperor. She then dispatched Xiaoman to deliver this "edict" to General Yang Jun in Beiji, urging him to bring his army to reinforce the capital day and night. Meanwhile, Dongzhi secretly infiltrated a Yongqing encampment to rescue Qing An. Qing An, under Yongqing's control, was ordered to kill Dongzhi.
However, Dongzhi's twin eagle ring briefly restored Qing An's consciousness, allowing Dongzhi to seize the opportunity and escape with him. Learning that Baoning had received an imperial edict and was rushing to the capital, Li Qian became extremely worried for her safety. On her way to the capital, Baoning encountered Dongzhi and Qing An. Hearing their story and Qing An’s transformation, Baoning felt great sympathy for their plight.
Outside the capital, Qing Tai, blinded by overconfidence, declared his intent to capture Empress Dowager Cao at Longevity Hill and personally storm the Mu'an Imperial Palace. Inside the palace, Zhao Yi's illness worsened, to the point where even imperial physicians could do nothing for him. The capital was under siege. Xiong Yipei and The Archduke desperately defended the city gates, but they were ultimately overwhelmed, and Xiong Yipei tragically died a martyr.
The Archduke and his son entered the palace to protect the Emperor, while Wang Jidao ordered everyone to hold the palace gates at all costs. Yongqing forces broke into Longevity Hill. Empress Dowager Cao, unwilling to be taken captive, chose to commit suicide by slitting her own throat, having first hidden Fang Yiru and Prince Zhao Xi behind a screen. Fang Yiru, to protect Zhao Xi, bravely revealed herself, drawing the enemy's attention.
She was subsequently killed, thus preserving Zhao Xi's life. Baoning arrived at Longevity Hill, finding the area strewn with corpses. She ultimately discovered the hidden Prince Zhao Xi in Empress Dowager Cao's Buddha chapel, learning from a eunuch that both the Empress Dowager and Fang Yiru had sacrificed themselves to protect him.
Episode 30 Recap
Empress Han Tongxin desperately pleaded with Zhao Yi to escape the palace with her, but he refused, asserting that as the Emperor of Mu'an, he could not abandon his people. Seeing his resolve, she offered to stay and defend their state by his side. Zhao Yi, however, expressed his deep regret for his past mistreatment of her, wishing for a next life to atone, just before coughing up blood. Empress Han immediately rushed to find an imperial physician.
Meanwhile, Jiang Baoning arrived at the palace and was distraught to find Zhao Yi gravely weak. He entrusted her with the protection of his people and his son, Zhao Xi, confessing his failures as an emperor and his regrets towards Baoning and his state, before passing away in her arms. Empress Han returned to find Baoning holding the deceased emperor and became furious, but before she could act on her anger, the enemy forces breached the palace.
She quickly fled with her maid. As the enemy advanced into the palace, Jiang Lyu and Cao Xuan arrived with their troops, narrowly saving Baoning. Qing Tai led his forces into the imperial palace. Li Dongzhi instructed Qing An to deliver the imperial edict to defend the Emperor to Qing Tai. Qing An, in a trance and under the old shaman Wu's control, acted as Qing Tai's loyal subordinate and presented the Qinwang banner.
Upon receiving the news, a messenger informed Qing Tai that Li Qian had sealed the passes, cutting off Yongqing's retreat, and was leading elite troops with Yang Jun to besiege Yongqing's capital, planning to trap them. Realizing his predicament, Qing Tai ordered a full retreat, taking Qing An with him. Li Dongzhi blew a whistle, hoping to call Qing An back, but he remained with Qing Tai's forces as they withdrew.
With Qing Tai's retreat, Jiang Baoning's uncle and aunt rushed to see her, relieved to find her safe. Jiang Baoning then went to see the Grand Empress Dowager, who, upon seeing her, embraced her tearfully, overjoyed at her safety. Jiang Baoning instructed Cao Xuan and Jiang Lyu to keep the deaths of Zhao Yi and Empress Dowager Cao a secret until the morning court. Elsewhere, Li Lin and Gao Miaorong were tending to the wounded.
While searching for medicinal herbs, Li Lin received help from Liuhe, a former maid from the Li Family. Hearing this, Gao Miaorong felt a profound regret for how she had treated Liuhe in the past, leading to a change of heart. She resolved to live a good life with Li Lin. Just then, someone collapsed, and Gao Miaorong discovered it was Empress Han.
Empress Han recognized Gao Miaorong and, knowing her to be Li Qian's childhood sweetheart, attempted to persuade her to become her personal female physician in the palace. Gao Miaorong declined, having no desire to return to court life, especially after being informed by a palace servant that the palace crisis was over. Gao Miaorong reassured Li Lin that she had let go of her past and only wished to be with him forever, embracing a simple life, however humble.
As Empress Han prepared to return to the palace, Gao Miaorong discreetly informed her that she was pregnant. Empress Han immediately realized this provided new leverage against Jiang Baoning. Despite his military victory, Li Qian remained troubled, his concern for Jiang Baoning evident. Unable to leave the palace, Jiang Baoning wrote him a letter. Li Qian, upon receiving it, initially feigned indifference out of pique for her rash actions, but his worry soon compelled him to read it.
His friend, Jin Xiao, teased him about his obvious concern, despite his attempts to hide it. Jiang Baoning confided in her servant that she needed to maintain composure in the palace amidst the unfolding crisis and couldn't risk leaving to see Li Qian, as it would give others leverage and could implicate the Li Family. The next day, as officials gathered for the morning court, they were met by Commandery Princess Jia'nan (Jiang Baoning) and the young Prince Zhao Xi.
Jiang Baoning directed the Archduke to announce the passing of Emperor Zhao Yi and Empress Dowager Cao. She explained that the Emperor had fought valiantly until his last breath, worthy of his ancestors and people. When an official questioned the delay in the announcement, Jiang Lyu clarified that revealing it earlier would have undermined army morale.
Zhao Yi's personal eunuch presented the late emperor's testamentary edict, which named the eldest imperial son Zhao Xi as the Crown Prince, appointed Chief Councilor Wang Jidao to lead the officials in governing, and designated Commandery Princess Jia'nan to assist Zhao Xi. At this moment, Empress Han Tongxin, now calling herself Empress Dowager, entered the hall, proclaiming that her unborn lineal son should be the rightful heir.
However, the Grand Empress Dowager intervened, stating that Mu'an had always valued virtue over primogeniture. She decreed that if Empress Han's child was a boy, he would be titled Prince Gong, and if a girl, a princess. Empress Han herself was to be elevated to Empress Dowager Xiaoci. Han Tongxin reluctantly accepted the titles.
The Grand Empress Dowager affirmed that though Zhao Xi was young, he was diligent and kind, and with the support of the officials, had a promising future. All officials bowed in compliance with the late emperor's will. Under the cover of night, Li Dongzhi infiltrated Qing Tai's camp to find Qing An, discovering him bound in the stables. Just as she was about to escape with him, they were ambushed by Qing Tai's men.
Qing Tai brutally denigrated Qing An, calling him a bastard and treating him like a dog. He blamed Li Qian for his army's defeat and vowed to sacrifice Li Dongzhi's blood to avenge his fallen soldiers, ordering Qing An to kill her. Li Dongzhi desperately tried to awaken Qing An from his controlled state. With a blank expression, Qing An raised his knife, but instead of striking Li Dongzhi, he cut her ropes.
Enraged by Qing An's defiance, Qing Tai commanded his men to kill Qing An. In the ensuing chaos, Li Dongzhi managed to escape with Qing An. Qing Tai was furious at their escape, but Wu advised him to withdraw from Bingzhou, regroup in Yunyang, and return with a stronger force after recovering. In Mu'an, a national funeral was held, and the imperial edict was formally read.
Zhao Xi was officially enthroned as the new emperor, and the new reign was proclaimed as Shengzhen. Empress Dowager Cao was posthumously honored as Saint Lie Ci Shou Sheng Zhang Empress Dowager, the Grand Empress Dowager was given the long honorable title of Zhao Sheng Ci Shou Kang He Ren Xuan Hong Jing Zhang Qing Grand Empress Dowager, and Empress Han was named Empress Dowager Xiaoci.
Episode 31 Recap
Upon the new emperor's enthronement, a grand ceremony of homage was held. Jiang Baoning was recognized for her meritorious service in defending the state, earning her the title of Princess Jia’nan with an allowance equal to princes, a hundred thousand mu of fertile farmlands, and ten thousand taels of gold. Li Qian, hailed for his youthful bravery and for guarding the emperor, was bestowed the title of Lord Lintong and commanded the Jinxi Army.
Other officials were also honored, including Li Changqing, who was appointed Capital Grand Commander with an inheritable title, and Jin Xiao, who became the Deputy Commander of the Capital Guards, a third-level official. News arrived that Duke Zhenguo had successfully repelled the Yongqing forces. During the court session, the issue of Zhao Xiao's misconduct was raised.
Minister Wang stated that by law, Zhao Xiao's father, Marquis Jinghai Zhao Kuan, who had caused severe casualties and the loss of Nanmin by unauthorizedly transferring army provisions, should have his title stripped. Zhao Xiao, for deserting his post to rescue his father and causing the fall of Yunlin Pass, should be demoted to a commoner and exiled to the northern border.
However, Jiang Baoning argued that while desertion was a serious offense, the Mu’an State valued filial piety, making Zhao Xiao's actions understandable. She warned that such a harsh punishment would undermine filial piety and destabilize the morale in Nanmin. Li Qian supported her, highlighting Marquis Jinghai's heroic death for the state and suggesting that revoking his title would cause public unrest. He proposed that Zhao Xiao’s merits and demerits should balance each other out.
Despite pleas for leniency, Zhao Xiao insisted on taking full responsibility for his crimes. Li Qian then advised Zhao Xiao to consider his family's and father's honor. Ultimately, the new emperor agreed with Li Qian's suggestion. The Grand Empress Dowager, however, decreed that while exile was to be pardoned, Zhao Xiao must endure thirty strokes of the cane to uphold national authority. Furthermore, Marquis Jinghai’s title would be preserved.
After the court session, Jiang Baoning tried to approach Li Qian, who was still upset with her for her risky actions. Li Qian, annoyed, pushed away Jin Xiao, who had tried to intervene. Jin Xiao advised Li Qian not to damage his relationship with Jiang Baoning by being overly stubborn about his dignity. Later, Jiang Baoning came to Li Qian's study, apologized, and offered to face a wall as punishment.
Li Qian, seeing her playful demeanor, embraced and kissed her, admitting he was not angry but had been overly worried. Jiang Baoning explained that her parents' early deaths forced her to become independent and that she initially wanted to shield the Li family from the former emperor's affairs. Li Qian reassured her, expressing his wish for her to rely on him more as his wife. Meanwhile, Li Dongzhi brought Qing An to the charity house for his recovery.
There, she met Qin Yu, a refugee who helped around with needlework. Li Dongzhi introduced Qing An to Qin Yu and explained his amnesiac condition, mentioning that he understood little of what was said. Qin Yu, seeing Qing An’s efforts to offer Li Dongzhi raw fish, later remarked that Qing An's devoted attention stemmed from gratitude and affection, and promised to help care for him.
Later, after Qing An had tried to eat raw fish and Li Dongzhi had sent for snacks, Siqin, who had been following them, appeared. He was overjoyed to find Qing An alive, revealing that Qing Tai's tyrannical rule and constant conscription had plunged the Yongqing State into misery. Siqin believed that only Qing An could save Yongqing. Li Dongzhi, however, was primarily concerned with Qing An’s recovery, as many doctors had deemed his condition incurable.
Siqin suggested that Qing An’s state might be due to the Zhuyou technique of Wu Man, Qing Tai’s cunning and deceitful minion, but he doubted Wu Man would ever help Qing An. Li Dongzhi, undeterred, resolved to find a cure for Qing An. Dong Shanhu later encountered Li Dongzhi and Qing An at the charity house, realizing with surprise that Qing An did not recognize her.
After learning about his memory loss, Dong Shanhu offered to recommend some skilled physicians she knew through her business. Li Dongzhi gratefully accepted, promising repayment from the Li family. Dong Shanhu then subtly inquired about Jin Xiao. Li Dongzhi playfully teased her, revealing that Jin Xiao was now a highly esteemed Deputy Commander in the Capital. Separately, Dong Shanhu visited a newly opened shop where a rude shop owner disparaged her.
Jin Xiao, who had been following her, intervened, reprimanded the shop owner, and declared his intention to buy all the fabrics for Dong Shanhu. Dong Shanhu, pulling Jin Xiao out of the shop, questioned why he wasn't at his post in the capital. Jin Xiao explained he was in Bingzhou for a military handover with his father and to bid her farewell, as he would be stationed in the capital for a long time.
He presented her with an abacus made of huanghuali wood as a parting gift. Dong Shanhu then revealed that her family also had businesses in the capital, implying she could join him there, which delighted Jin Xiao. Li Qian brought Jiang Baoning to Marquis Jinghai’s mansion, providing her with a potent healing powder for Zhao Xiao. He knew Jiang Baoning felt indebted to Zhao Xiao for his past help and wanted her to ease her conscience.
When Jiang Baoning went to comfort Zhao Xiao, urging him to recover, he asked if she ever considered that Li Qian married her for his own advancement. Jiang Baoning firmly stated that she married Li Qian willingly, and she believed him to be a good man, regardless of any potential benefits. As the time for their return to Bingzhou approached, Jiang Baoning discussed it with He Cuihua and Li Changqing.
He Cuihua was reluctant for them to leave, especially since Li Changqing was to remain in the capital. She asked Jiang Baoning to arrange for Li Dongzhi to also be transferred to the capital, but Li Changqing suspected she merely wanted Li Dongzhi to marry a powerful official there. The couple erupted into a quarrel, which Li Qian and Jiang Baoning eventually managed to quell, reaffirming their decision to return to Bingzhou.
While packing for Bingzhou, Qingke discovered a letter left by Grand Mentor Xiong among Jiang Baoning’s belongings. The letter, penned before his death, contained his research on "The Book of Supreme Weapons," stating it was created by the reclusive weapon master Zhang Zeshi, who had long since vanished. Jiang Baoning showed Li Qian a strange, incomplete weapon she had used in Bingzhou, which, though powerful, was dangerous to its user.
Li Qian warned her of the proverb, "A man is innocent, but the jade he carries is a crime," emphasizing the need to keep the weapon’s existence a secret to avoid endless trouble. Before leaving for Bingzhou, Jiang Baoning decided to spend her remaining days in the capital with the Grand Empress Dowager, whom she worried about.
While playing cards with the Grand Empress Dowager, the old matriarch expressed her fond wish for Jiang Baoning to bear a great-grandchild, which embarrassed Jiang Baoning. Meanwhile, Han Empress Dowager, now second only to the emperor, ambitiously attempted to take control of court affairs.
However, her plans were thwarted when the Grand Empress Dowager issued an edict, citing Han Empress Dowager’s pregnancy and ordering her to stay in Cining Palace for rest, with eight midwives assigned to attend to her until she gave birth. Infuriated, Han Empress Dowager vented her anger, feeling marginalized by both the Grand Empress Dowager and the popular Jiang Baoning. Gao Miaorong tried to calm her, reminding her that her unborn child would be her future support.
Han Empress Dowager then questioned if Gao Miaorong had truly forgotten the humiliations she suffered in the Li family, hinting at her past with Li Lin and her maid, Guanju. A flashback revealed that Han Empress Dowager had rescued Gao Miaorong, Li Lin, and Guanju from a brutal beating. Han Empress Dowager, leveraging Gao Miaorong’s past suffering and her desire to protect Li Lin and Guanju, convinced her to do her bidding, promising power and resources. Gao Miaorong, having experienced hardship, was deemed by the Empress Dowager as someone who would cherish opportunities, and she reluctantly agreed to serve her.
Episode 32 Recap
Gao Miaorong entrusted her savings to Li Lin, encouraging him to start a business with her palace connections as support. Li Lin, however, observed her constant frowns since entering the Palace, reminding her of her promise to marry him once she saved enough money. He offered to work hard to ensure their comfortable life and urged her to leave.
Gao Miaorong stated she could not leave yet, claiming Empress Dowager Han was kind and would release her with a generous dowry, promising to marry him and live happily ever after. Li Lin was overjoyed and readily agreed. Later, Gao Miaorong's maid, Guanju, expressed concern over her mistress's sadness and suggested telling Li Lin the truth.
Gao Miaorong had entered the palace to protect Li Lin and Guanju, but Empress Dowager Han’s true nature had revealed itself to be increasingly cruel and manipulative. Guanju criticized the Empress Dowager's difficult demands, but Gao Miaorong silenced her, fearing that loose lips would lead to their ruin. She admitted that some situations were beyond their control, and one wrong step left no room for retreat. On her way back to the palace, Gao Miaorong encountered Zhao Xiao.
He was surprised to see her alive, given her past crimes, and acknowledged her cunning for securing a position with Empress Dowager Han. Gao Miaorong used this opportunity to subtly recruit him for Empress Dowager Han. She remarked on Zhao Xiao’s noble background and early success, lamenting his recent misfortunes.
She reminded him that Li Qian had saved his life and title, then questioned if he truly wished to let those who had humiliated him get away without begging for mercy. Zhao Xiao listened impassively before riding away. The next day, Li Qian was set to return to Bingzhou. That evening, he shared drinks with his father, Li Changqing, who expressed pride in Li Qian's achievements but advised him to remain humble.
Their conversation turned to the massacre of their village and the murder of Li Qian's mother years ago, a case that remained unsolved. Li Qian promised his father that with Mu’an State now stable, he would spare no effort to find the culprit and avenge his mother. The following morning, Li Qian and Commandery Princess Jia’nan went to the Palace to bid farewell to Grand Empress Dowager.
Commandery Princess Jia’nan was reluctant to leave her grandmother, but Grand Empress Dowager reassured her that she could visit whenever she pleased. Outside the palace, Li Changqing, He Cuihua, and Cao Xuan's family gathered to see them off. He Cuihua urged Li Qian to find a suitable match for Li Dongzhi upon their return to Bingzhou. Su Su also asked Commandery Princess Jia’nan to visit them often. After their goodbyes, Li Qian and Commandery Princess Jia’nan set off for Bingzhou.
Five years passed. Empress Dowager Han's son, Zhao An, was now five years old. He was a well-behaved and filial child, understanding the story of Kong Rong yielding pears and offering the largest tribute tangerines to Grand Empress Dowager and Emperor Zhao Xi. This brought great joy to Grand Empress Dowager, but Empress Dowager Han was displeased. When Emperor Zhao Xi offered her a tangerine, she rudely rejected it, accusing him of giving her leftovers and showing no respect.
She did not want Zhao An to spend too much time with the Emperor. Later, she reprimanded Zhao An for his behavior, contrasting him with how Zhao Xi was already on the throne at his age. Gao Miaorong then comforted Empress Dowager Han, who shared her satisfaction with having sown seeds of hatred in Zhao Xiao's heart five years prior, and expressed her anticipation for Zhao Xiao to grow powerful enough to challenge Li Qian.
Meanwhile, Grand Empress Dowager privately asked Emperor Zhao Xi if he was upset by Empress Dowager Han's demeanor. Zhao Xi denied any resentment, stating he believed his mother's strictness was a form of guidance for him to be diligent in his duties. He embraced his responsibilities as a son and an elder brother.
Despite knowing that the path of an emperor demanded solitude and sacrifice of personal affections, he remembered how his aunt, Commandery Princess Jia’nan, had overcome immense difficulties to ensure his ascension to the throne. As a man, he vowed never to retreat from his duties. Grand Empress Dowager was greatly relieved by his resolve. Around Li Qian's birthday, an imperial envoy arrived to bestow new honors upon him.
After receiving the decree, Li Qian and Commandery Princess Jia’nan surmised that this promotion was undoubtedly Grand Empress Dowager's initiative. Li Dongzhi, hearing the news, rushed in to inquire. Li Qian seized the opportunity to tease her about getting married soon. Commandery Princess Jia’nan, however, came to Li Dongzhi’s defense, asserting that marriage was not an absolute necessity for women. Nonetheless, to uphold Li Qian’s image, she advised Li Dongzhi to seek a husband as exemplary as her brother.
For years, Li Dongzhi had tirelessly sought physicians to cure Qing An, but to no avail. She often lamented his inability to fully recover but also found solace in his current carefree existence, believing it allowed him to live a life free from worries. What Li Dongzhi did not know was that Qing An had already regained his lucidity but chose to feign his illness, unwilling to leave her. He quietly wished they could continue their peaceful life together.
In Yongqing State, King Qing Tai grew increasingly tyrannical. He impulsively executed dancers, ignored the widespread plague, and refused to open state granaries to aid his suffering people, choosing instead to amass troops and provisions for a future conquest of Mu’an State. His advisor, Deputy Censor Wang, was dismissed and arrested for urging him to open granaries, further deepening public resentment.
During his conscription efforts in Nanmin, Zhao Xiao accidentally learned of a powerful "divine weapon" that Commandery Princess Jia’nan had used in Jinxi years ago. He sought out a former pirate, who confirmed witnessing Commandery Princess Jia’nan deploy such a weapon when they attacked the Jiang Mansion in Bingzhou, which resulted in the swift deaths of his men. The pirate recounted his terror and his vow never to return to Jinxi.
Zhao Xiao deduced that this was undoubtedly a weapon developed by Commandery Princess Jia’nan based on "The Divine Ghost Weaponry Chart". He began to suspect that the chart itself might be in her possession or still hidden within the palace, especially after recalling that she was present during a fire at the Wanping Mountain Treasure House where the chart was supposedly stored. Zhao Xiao returned to the capital to report on his duties.
He rode his horse directly into the palace grounds, showing disdain for officials like Wang Jidao and Zuo. He reminded them of Nanmin's substantial contributions to the capital's prosperity, asserting that they had no right to lecture him on rules when they benefited from his efforts. Wang Jidao regretted not having eliminated Zhao Xiao when he was vulnerable, recognizing that it was now too late.
Zhao Xiao then met with Empress Dowager Han, offering a rare treasure from Nanmin as a gift. Empress Dowager Han, after expressing her delight, noted his successful contributions to the state's prosperity. She introduced him to Zhao An, subtly suggesting he look after the young prince, whom she referred to as the late emperor's rightful heir. Zhao Xiao then requested access to the new Treasure House within the palace.
Empress Dowager Han readily agreed but secretly ordered Baihe to follow him. Inside the new Treasure House, Zhao Xiao searched diligently and found the designated box for "The Divine Ghost Weaponry Chart", only to discover it empty. He realized he had been deliberately misled, as the chart was believed to have been destroyed in the earlier fire at Wanping Mountain Treasure House. Baihe reported Zhao Xiao’s actions to Empress Dowager Han.
Gao Miaorong then confirmed that she had heard in the Li family during her childhood that "The Divine Ghost Weaponry Chart" could create powerful armaments, and that the Li clan and Li Qian's mother had died because of it, prompting the Li family's long search for the chart. She brought forth Jing’an, a former maid of Empress Dowager Cao who had become a nun.
Jing'an revealed that "The Divine Ghost Weaponry Chart" was the masterpiece of the legendary weapon master Zhang Zeshi. She explained that Empress Dowager Cao, in her quest for imperial favor, had dispatched Commandery Princess Jia’nan’s father, Jiang Zhenying, a former student of Zhang Zeshi, to acquire the chart. With the chart, Empress Dowager Cao successfully secured her position in the harem. Empress Dowager Han, realizing the implications, suspected Jiang Zhenying might be involved in the death of Li Qian's mother.
She saw this as an opportunity and instructed Gao Miaorong to inform the Li family, aiming to sow discord between Li Qian and Commandery Princess Jia’nan. Meanwhile, Commandery Princess Jia’nan presented Li Qian with a unique birthday gift housed in a complex puzzle box. Li Qian playfully pretended he couldn't open it, claiming the box was faulty. Commandery Princess Jia’nan, trying to demonstrate its mechanism, nearly trapped herself inside.
She then declared that she herself was his true birthday gift, which greatly pleased Li Qian. She had initially planned to give him a new sword, but its scabbard had been damaged. Instead, she offered him a jade pendant, a love token her father had given her mother, which Commandery Princess Jia’nan had worn since her parents' passing. She mentioned its value as a royal tribute and its chipped corner from an old accident.
Li Qian, upon seeing the jade pendant, was visibly shaken. He recognized it from a childhood memory, a faint image of his mother with a man wearing a similar jade pendant. Disturbing, he excused himself due to urgent official duties and quickly departed. Gao Miaorong sought out Li Changqing, who initially showed reluctance to speak with her given their past. Miaorong reminded him of his kindness to her as a child.
She then revealed that she had uncovered the true identity of the person responsible for the massacre of the Li family village and the death of Li Qian’s mother. She informed Li Changqing that the perpetrator was none other than Jiang Zhenying, the father of Commandery Princess Jia’nan.
Episode 33 Recap
Gao Miaorong informed Li Changqing that she had uncovered the true perpetrator of the Li Village massacre years ago: Jiang Baoning's father, Jiang Zhenying. Li Changqing, however, dismissed her claims as slander, believing Gao Miaorong still harbored resentment towards Jiang Baoning. To prove her allegations, Gao Miaorong introduced Abbess Jing’an, a former attendant of Empress Dowager Cao who had been practicing in Fanhua Hall.
Abbess Jing’an confirmed the story, stating that after her testimony, she would leave the palace and did not care if they believed her. While Li Changqing still found it hard to believe, reasoning that Jiang Zhenying merely retrieved The Book of Supreme Weapons for Empress Dowager Cao, he did harbor doubts and thus arranged for a secret investigation.
Gao Miaorong further countered by highlighting the suspicious proximity of the book's presentation to the massacre date, urging Li Changqing to investigate these numerous coincidences. Later, Gao Miaorong engineered a chance encounter with Zhao Xiao and, after some preliminary conversation about the little prince, brought up his interest in The Book of Supreme Weapons. She then suggested that the powerful artifact might be connected to Jiang Baoning.
Armed with this information, Zhao Xiao sought out Empress Han, who confirmed the long-standing feud between Jiang Zhenying and the Li family. Empress Han suggested that if Li Changqing learned Jiang Baoning was the daughter of his enemy, he would force Li Qian to divorce her, creating a perfect opportunity for Zhao Xiao to win Baoning back and avenge his past humiliation by Li Qian.
Zhao Xiao decided to secretly travel to Bingzhou, and Empress Han offered him her loyal secret guard, Xie Jianfeng, a former member of Empress Dowager Cao's covert unit, to assist him. Zhao Xiao accepted the offer but immediately instructed his own subordinate to be wary of Xie Jianfeng, recognizing him as Empress Han's spy, and to seek an opportunity to shake him off.
He also speculated that if The Book of Supreme Weapons was not in the palace, it might indeed be with Jiang Baoning, seeing this as a heaven-sent opportunity. Meanwhile, Li Qian was grappling with disturbing news. Secret intel confirmed that Jiang Zhenying was indeed the man who had a violent argument with his mother in Li Village twenty years ago.
Overwhelmed by this revelation, Li Qian found himself unable to face Jiang Baoning and began to avoid her, confiding in a subordinate about his unbearable dilemma. Across town, Zhao Xiao arrived in Bingzhou, instructing his attendant to wait while he proceeded to a secret meeting with Jin Haitao at Changle Inn.
During their conversation, Zhao Xiao subtly played on Jin Haitao's long-standing grievances, reminding him of his unrewarded military service compared to Li Changqing's rapid promotion after the new emperor's ascension, hinting that Li Qian's marriage to the princess was the cause. Zhao Xiao then openly proposed an alliance against Li Qian, allowing Jin Haitao time to consider.
Following this, Zhao Xiao cleverly neutralized Xie Jianfeng, his "spy," by tasking him with a detailed and time-consuming investigation into a rumored powerful weapon in Bingzhou, effectively keeping him occupied and out of Zhao Xiao's way. At the Li Mansion, Qingke, after much hesitation, finally shared whispers she heard from the maids: Li Qian had been frequenting Qinfang Pavilion, drinking with courtesans. Enraged, Jiang Baoning stormed out, forbidding Qingke from following.
At Qinfang Pavilion, Jin Xiao, who had been transferred back to Bingzhou and was feeling the immense pressure from his father to enter a politically advantageous marriage, was drinking with Li Qian. Li Qian, deeply troubled, confided in Jin Xiao about his emotional torment. He described Jiang Baoning as a "priceless treasure" that he had painstakingly acquired, only to discover she was tied to his mother's killer.
He expressed his profound conflict, admitting he couldn't bring himself to destroy her, couldn't let go of the deep-seated hatred, and yet, paradoxically, couldn't live without her. Baoning arrived at Qinfang Pavilion to a heartbreaking sight: a heavily intoxicated Li Qian, mistaking a courtesan for her, was seeking her advice while embracing the woman.
Seeing this, Baoning's anger flared, and she turned to leave, her disappointment deepening when Li Qian, caught in his drunken stupor and inner turmoil, made no move to follow. On the street, a distraught Baoning encountered Zhao Xiao. After exchanging polite greetings, Zhao Xiao probed her, ostensibly for information about a powerful "magic weapon" to combat river bandits, and asked her to deliver any news to Changle Inn.
Unaware of his true intentions and perhaps still reeling from her encounter with Li Qian, Baoning feigned ignorance of such a weapon and, citing a sudden illness, quickly excused herself. Upon returning home, Baoning confronted a still-intoxicated Li Qian about his prolonged avoidance and his activities at Qinfang Pavilion. Their heated discussion was abruptly interrupted by Li Changqing's return, who immediately summoned them to his study.
There, Li Changqing vehemently accused Jiang Zhenying of orchestrating the massacre of the Li family and the death of Li Qian's mother, declaring that the Li household could no longer tolerate Baoning. Baoning, heartbroken and aghast, struggled to defend her father, demanding concrete evidence. Li Changqing presented the testimony of Abbess Jing’an and the incriminating timing of Jiang Zhenying's presence in Li Village while searching for The Book of Supreme Weapons.
Li Qian, when pressed by Baoning, reluctantly explained how the jade pendant she gave him brought back a childhood memory of a man, likely Jiang Zhenying, arguing fiercely with his mother just before the devastating massacre. Baoning was incredulous that such a grave accusation rested on mere words from a nun and a single jade pendant, pleading with Li Qian to believe her father's innocence.
However, Li Qian, torn between his love and his family's bitter history, could not offer unwavering trust. Li Changqing, infuriated by Li Qian's hesitation, berated him for prioritizing love over his mother's revenge. Deeply hurt and feeling betrayed, Baoning declared that Li Qian had broken his promises and began to pack her belongings, intending to return to the capital. Li Changqing, seizing the moment, ordered Li Qian to write a letter of divorce.
Yet, Li Qian, despite his inner conflict, refused to divorce Baoning, arguing that the evidence was not conclusive enough to condemn Jiang Zhenying as the murderer. His defiance earned him a furious denunciation of being an unfilial son from Li Changqing. Defiantly, Jiang Baoning continued packing her bags, determined to return to the capital, despite Li Qian's pleas for her to stay.
She challenged him, asking if he truly hated her as the daughter of his mother's killer, and insisted he release her if that was the case. When Li Qian refused to let her go, clutching onto her, he ultimately ordered his guards to seal her room, ensuring she could not leave without his explicit permission. Later, Dongzhi, having learned of the growing tensions, rushed back to the mansion.
She courageously confronted Li Changqing, arguing that it was unjust to accuse Baoning's father based solely on a nun's testimony, especially since Li Qian cherished his wife. Her defense only fueled Li Changqing's rage, leading him to accuse both his children of being unfilial.
Elsewhere, Jin Haitao admonished his son, Jin Xiao, to distance himself from Li Qian and, for the sake of his career, to seek marriage with a noblewoman, citing Li Qian's successful climb through his marriage to the princess as an example. Jin Xiao, however, scorned his father's pragmatic view, asserting that Li Qian's achievements stemmed from his own merits and that genuine affection, which his father failed to understand, was paramount in marriage.
His arguments only exasperated Jin Haitao, who labeled him a "jinx." To drown his sorrows, Jin Xiao went drinking alone and unexpectedly encountered Dong Shanhu, whom he had not seen in five years. Playfully, he chided her for not visiting him in the capital, unaware that she had tried to find him. As he continued to tease her, Shanhu, to his surprise, openly confessed her feelings for him.
Caught off guard, Jin Xiao, flustered and unable to process her sincerity, clumsily dismissed her confession, claiming to view her only as a "brother." Hurt and dejected, Shanhu abruptly left. Confined to her room, Baoning refused to eat, sparking concern from her maids. Li Qian eventually brought her food and tried to persuade her to eat, but Baoning pressed him, demanding to know if he truly believed in her and her family.
Li Qian struggled to respond, minimizing the gravity of the jade pendant and the nun's testimony, which only deepened Baoning's anger. She accused him and his father of being set on believing her father was the killer, and keeping her confined to "slowly torture" the "murderer's daughter," declaring her hatred for him. Li Qian, consumed by his own pain, told her to hate him if it offered her any relief.
Later, a remorseful Li Qian apologized to Baoning, informing her that he had sent men to find the nun for a further confrontation, convinced that the truth would eventually emerge, and acknowledging the suffering he had caused her. The following day, still prevented from leaving, Baoning cleverly requested the housekeeper to bring singing girls to entertain her.
Using this opportunity, she disguised herself as one of the performers and, along with Liu Xiaoman and Qingke, made a daring escape from the mansion in a carriage. The housekeeper quickly discovered her absence and frantically sent word to Li Qian, who was attending a banquet hosted by Hu Yiliang. Alarmed, Li Qian immediately ordered a city-wide lockdown, with strict checks on all individuals attempting to leave.
Meanwhile, Jin Xiao's forced blind date with Miss Xu proved to be a disaster. Miss Xu, mistaking his name and exhibiting an incredibly arrogant demeanor, detailed her numerous more eligible suitors and laid out condescending terms for their potential marriage, including naming their first child after her family and expecting him to become a first-rank official within three years. Jin Xiao was thoroughly disgusted.
At the same time, Dong Shanhu was engaged in a much more pleasant blind date with the cultured Mr. Zhou, who was impressing her with his literary talents. Unable to tolerate Miss Xu's insolence any longer, Jin Xiao dramatically interrupted Shanhu's date. Despite Shanhu's attempts to feign ignorance, Jin Xiao publicly declared that she had previously confessed her love for him and was, in fact, his fiancée, plunging both dates into chaos.
Seizing the opportunity amid the ensuing uproar, Jin Xiao dragged Shanhu away. Furious, Shanhu berated him for using her as a shield and ruining her promising date with Mr. Zhou, whom she considered a suitable and intelligent match, despite his humble background. Jin Xiao, despite clearly harboring strong feelings for Shanhu, fumbled his explanation, resorting to clumsy insults about Mr. Zhou's perceived weakness and ulterior motives, rather than articulating his true emotions. Deeply disappointed by his inability to express himself and his destruction of her chances, Shanhu angrily left him, leaving Jin Xiao to regret his "clumsy speech."
Episode 34 Recap
Officials, led by Mr. Jin, gathered, upset because Li Qian's policy of having soldiers farm for self-sufficiency during peacetime had disrupted many merchants' interests. They intended to confront him, but Li Qian turned back just as he arrived. A guard reported that Princess Jiang Baoning was missing, and Li Qian had left to find his wife. The officials were furious at being stood up. Meanwhile, Li Qian galloped through the streets, pursuing a carriage.
He intercepted it, promising an explanation, but found it empty. Realizing Baoning was not inside, he immediately delegated military duties to Yun Lin and domestic affairs to Li Dongzhi, then set off to pursue Baoning himself. Baoning's attendants, Qingke and Xiaoman, had taken a separate route to evade Li Qian. In the city, Jin Xiao tried to invite Shanhu out but was rejected. Li Qian's pursuit led him to a theatrical troupe, which he searched, but Baoning was not there.
It was revealed that Baoning had received help from Zhao Xiao to leave Bingzhou. Knowing Li Qian controlled the entire province, Baoning orchestrated a clever plan: she arranged for a singer, Qingke, and Xiaoman to attract Li Qian's attention by heading out of the city, while she herself did not leave but instead circled back, thus evading Li Qian's pursuit.
To Baoning's surprise, the singer was Zhao Xiao's person, which made her realize that the incident at Qinfang Pavilion had been a deliberate setup by Zhao Xiao. However, Baoning dismissed the revelation, stating that the issue between her and Li Qian was not the singer, but the generational grievances. She felt that Li Qian's coldness, doubt, and attempts to restrict her meant there was no future for them.
Zhao Xiao attempted to console her, suggesting that her father could not have been the evil man responsible for the massacre and that Li Qian's actions indicated a lack of deep love for her. Changing the subject, Baoning asked about Qingke and Xiaoman, and Zhao Xiao assured her that he had sent people to meet them, promising their reunion in the capital. Baoning thanked Zhao Xiao for his help, and they continued their journey.
Li Qian eventually learned from the singer that Baoning had instructed her to create the diversion. He realized he was too late and that Baoning was likely already en route to the capital. A message from Dongzhi informed him that Li Changqing would also soon arrive in the capital. Li Qian accelerated his journey, deciding to enter the city alone to avoid drawing attention. He instructed Wei Shu to deliver a memorial to the Emperor.
Guanju informed Gao Miaorong of Li Qian's arrival. Gao Miaorong knew then that what was inevitable could not be avoided. On the street, a thief deliberately stole Li Qian's moneybag, leading him into a secluded courtyard where Gao Miaorong awaited him. Gao Miaorong stated her high standing with the Empress Dowager and offered to assist Li Qian if he desired.
Li Qian, unwilling to engage in such schemes, simply demanded his moneybag, which Baoning had personally embroidered for him, and turned to leave. It was revealed that Gao Miaorong was compelled by Empress Dowager Han, understanding that a storm was brewing from which no one could hide. During their journey to the capital, Zhao Xiao reiterated his desire for Baoning, refusing to give up.
He confessed his regret over past events, claiming that if he had tried harder, their fate might have been different. Baoning urged him to move on and find his own happiness, but Zhao Xiao insisted that his happiness was within reach and he would continue to wait for her. He escorted her to the palace gates, promising continued support. At Kangshou Palace, the Grand Empress Dowager, gravely ill, had not wanted Baoning to be notified for fear of worrying her.
However, Baoning's unexpected return delighted her so much that she willingly drank her bitter medicine. When asked about Li Qian, Baoning hesitated, but then Li Qian arrived, surprising her. They feigned affection to alleviate the Grand Empress Dowager's concerns. The Grand Empress Dowager, fearing her illness would affect Baoning, urged Li Qian to take Baoning home. As soon as they left the palace, Li Qian and Baoning began to argue.
He expressed his worry about her leaving Bingzhou without a word, but Baoning declared she was no longer his wife since leaving and refused to return home with him. In their struggle, Baoning slapped Li Qian, telling him they could not go back to how things were. Li Qian, seeing her anger, decided to leave her to cool down and promised to return later, a promise Baoning rejected. Their heated exchange was witnessed by Su Su.
Later that night, a servant reported an incident at the charity house. A small fire had started when a candle accidentally ignited a curtain. Qin Yu, one of the residents, became frantic, repeatedly screaming, "Don't kill me!" Han's secret guards, who had been observing the charity house, recognized Qin Yu as a survivor of the past village massacre. Baoning returned to Jiang Mansion, where memories of her parents brought her to tears.
She vowed to clear her father's name from any wrongdoing and immediately began writing a letter to her paternal uncle, seeking his confirmation of past events. At Li Mansion, Li Qian met his father, Li Changqing, who, upon learning of Baoning's return, intended to accuse the Jiang family in the palace. Li Qian intervened, preventing his father from further hurting Baoning.
He Cuihua overheard their argument and, understanding the situation, forbade Li Changqing from risking the entire family's safety by pursuing an old grudge for his deceased former wife, or from disregarding Li Qian and Baoning's relationship. Li Changqing, in a fit of anger, accused He Cuihua of being greedy for wealth, reminding her that she was not the one who died.
Deeply hurt, He Cuihua responded that if she had died, she would not want the living to seek revenge, as long as her children were healthy and happy. Realizing his error, Li Changqing handed his jade pendant to Li Qian and departed. Back at Kangshou Palace, the Grand Empress Dowager was in high spirits with Baoning present. Li Qian arrived with figwort of Changbai Mountain for her health. Noting Baoning's coldness towards him, he soon excused himself.
The Grand Empress Dowager observed the couple's strained relationship and gently advised Baoning that life inevitably brings grievances and that not everything can go as one wishes. Baoning listened intently. Later, Su Su, having seen the couple's argument, asked Baoning what had happened. Baoning, reluctantly, confided in her. Su Su acknowledged Li Qian's fault but pointed out his dedication in following her to the capital showed his deep affection.
She then decided to enlist Cao Xuan's help to mend their relationship. Empress Dowager Han summoned Zhao Xiao, seeking his assistance in controlling Li Qian. Zhao Xiao confirmed that Li Qian's unauthorized entry into the capital was a serious offense and that he had secured impeachment memorials from Bingzhou officials. He assured her that he would wait for the grand court session to publicly humiliate Li Qian before the assembled officials.
Meanwhile, Li Qian met with Cao Xuan, seeking introductions to capital officials. Unbeknownst to them, Zhao Xiao was also actively garnering support among officials to impeach Li Qian. Cao Xuan then invited Li Qian to his mansion for drinks, where Baoning was also present, as Cao Xuan and Su Su hoped to reconcile the couple. However, Baoning remained unyielding and left the mansion. Just outside, she encountered Zhao Xiao, who offered her a ride in his carriage.
Episode 35 Recap
After escorting Baoning back to the palace, Zhao Xiao quickly convened a meeting with Jin Haitao and other officials. He aimed to use the morning court session to bring down Li Qian, accusing him of entering the palace without imperial summons. He also planned to propose relocating the capital, offering eighty percent of Nanmin's tax revenue to fund this endeavor.
Zhao Xiao believed that moving the capital would significantly diminish the imperial court's reliance on Jinxi and, by extension, Li Qian, making Li Qian an easier opponent to deal with. Meanwhile, Li Qian gathered his own trusted officials, including Cao Xuan. He deduced that Zhao Xiao's actions were intended to target him and that if he fell, Zhao Xiao would manipulate the young Emperor, bringing instability to Mu’an.
Li Qian pointed out Zhao Xiao's recent visits to officials in the Ministries of Construction and Revenue, coupled with an appointment with the respected but easily swayed Master Peng, all indicating a relocation scheme designed to undermine him. An official raised concerns about the soaring commodity prices and the depleted national treasury, questioning the feasibility of such a costly endeavor.
Cao Xuan suggested seeking the Grand Empress Dowager's help, but Li Qian was unwilling to burden her due to her frail health or cause Baoning distress. Later that night, Zuo Daren, having learned of the discussions between Li Qian and Zhao Xiao's factions regarding the capital's relocation, urgently sought an audience with Baoning in the palace.
Despite the late hour and palace gates being locked, Zuo Daren insisted on the urgency, reminding Baoning of the late emperor’s will for her to oversee state affairs and her past role in saving Mu’an. He stressed that only she could salvage the situation. Baoning, though initially hesitant to meddle in court affairs, conceded to the gravity of the situation.
She subsequently dispatched a letter to Shanhu, instructing her to send a batch of grain to the capital to stabilize prices. The following morning at the grand court session, Jin Haitao was the first to step forward, prosecuting Li Qian for entering the palace without imperial summons, claiming he neglected his duty to chase his wife. Chief Councilor Wang Jidao further escalated the charge, declaring Li Qian's actions tantamount to treason and urging severe punishment. However, Li Qian remained composed.
He revealed that he had anticipated such an accusation and had sent a memorial to the Emperor days prior, requesting permission to enter the capital to express gratitude for his newly bestowed title. The Emperor confirmed receiving Li Qian’s memorial, thereby dismissing the charge of unauthorized entry. Li Qian expressed his thanks, reiterating his commitment to his duties.
Undeterred, Jin Haitao then presented a joint petition, signed by 131 Jinxi officials and gentry, accusing Li Qian of years of cowardice and shaming Mu’an by consistently refusing to engage Yongqing State in battle. Li Qian explained that after the previous devastating war with Yongqing, Jinxi had suffered immense losses, with countless families broken. His strategy of defensive inaction was to allow the people to rebuild their homes and recuperate, so they could gather strength for a decisive future battle.
An official from Li Qian’s faction challenged Jin Haitao's glowing description of Nanmin under Zhao Xiao, highlighting the actual heavy taxation and forced conscription that plagued the region. As the argument grew heated and Zhao Xiao's faction pressed for a guilty verdict, Li Qian dramatically removed his outer robe, revealing a body covered in battle scars. He declared that every wound was a testament to his patriotic dedication on the battlefield, proving his courage.
He accepted the charge of discourtesy before the Emperor but vehemently denied the accusation of fearing the enemy and shaming the state. The Emperor, recalling Li Qian’s unwavering loyalty during his own youth, personally helped Li Qian put on his robe and hat, reaffirming his deep trust in him. Following this, Master Peng stepped forward, lamenting recent natural disasters, rising grain prices, and widespread refugees, all of which had left the national treasury depleted and the capital's people suffering.
He asserted that the capital's "fate was sealed" and proposed relocating to Pingchuan, a prosperous southern city. Zhao Xiao's allies supported the move, citing Li Qian's "cowardice" and arguing that Pingchuan would offer greater security under Marquis Jinghai's leadership. Baoning then countered that the capital was the "dragon's pulse" of the state, and relocation would disrupt the national fortune.
Moreover, she argued that moving to Pingchuan would merely exchange one threat (Yongqing) for another (pirates), and questioned how they would face the late emperor if the current one were to be captured. At this critical juncture, Baoning entered the court, pushing the Grand Empress Dowager in a wheelchair. The Grand Empress Dowager sternly addressed the court, urging the Emperor to recognize the self-serving individuals masquerading as loyal subjects.
Baoning then eloquently argued against relocation, citing historical precedents of dynasties falling after such moves and emphasizing that Mu’an's current state of recovery made any large-scale undertaking detrimental to its people. The Grand Empress Dowager declared that she would not relocate, asserting that her husband’s and Yong’an’s tombs were in the capital, and the people had their roots there. The young Emperor, emboldened, echoed her sentiment, declaring he would also not relocate and would stay with his Grand Empress Dowager.
Despite the opposition, Zhao Xiao's faction persisted, prompting Li Qian to offer to relinquish his military command of Jinxi, handing it over to Jin Haitao. The Emperor, though surprised, accepted Li Qian’s offer, effectively defusing the immediate crisis. Upon hearing the news, Empress Dowager Han was furious that Zhao Xiao had failed to bring down Li Qian and that the Grand Empress Dowager had intervened.
Her subordinates informed her that Marquis Jinghai likely already knew and that no one had the authority to stop the Grand Empress Dowager from performing a mourning ritual at the Imperial Mausoleums. They suggested that Empress Dowager Han herself might be the only one who could persuade the Grand Empress Dowager to return. Meanwhile, Li Qian visited Baoning, thanking her for her help in court. Baoning stated that her actions were for the good of the people.
Li Qian explained that his surrender of military power was merely a temporary measure, and Zhao Xiao would undoubtedly resurface with his relocation agenda, as his true aim was to diminish Li Qian’s influence. He also reaffirmed his unchanging affection for her. The Grand Empress Dowager then arrived, interrupting their conversation. She firmly declared her resolve to prevent the capital's relocation, saying she would use her "old face" to achieve it.
Baoning and Li Qian expressed concern for her health, but the Grand Empress Dowager insisted she wished to contribute to Mu’an and its people for as long as she had left, as it brought her joy. Subsequently, the Grand Empress Dowager, accompanied by Li Qian and Baoning, set off for the Imperial Mausoleums in a carriage draped in white. As news spread, a large crowd of commoners, moved by her determination, followed the procession. Zuo Daren also joined them.
This public display of defiance, deliberately undertaken without the Emperor, was a "bloodless war" fought to protect the young monarch, allowing him to grow safely and better assume his imperial responsibilities. Upon learning of the events, the Emperor, understanding their profound intentions, vowed to study diligently and become a good emperor. With no other recourse, Empress Dowager Han grudgingly went to the Imperial Mausoleums.
There, the Grand Empress Dowager cried out to the late emperor, lamenting the treacherous officials who, for personal gain, sought to abandon the capital—a city built over centuries, rich in resources, and once prosperous under his rule—and relocate to Pingchuan. Her impassioned plea resonated deeply with the gathered citizens, fueling their anger against the relocation.
When Empress Dowager Han attempted to feign concern for the Grand Empress Dowager's health, urging her to return from the windy suburbs, the Grand Empress Dowager publicly rebuked her as a "hypocrite," noting her absence in the palace but sudden appearance in the wilderness. She passionately declared she would rather die by her late husband's side in the capital than in Pingchuan.
Li Qian and Baoning, kneeling beside her, begged her to preserve her health while loudly proclaiming, "Our lives for the capital, we swear, no relocation!" The crowd of officials and citizens echoed their chant, overwhelming any further arguments for relocation. Seeing the widespread public and official opposition, Zhao Xiao had no choice but to concede defeat, and the relocation proposal was abandoned. After returning, Baoning, deeply concerned, worried about the Grand Empress Dowager’s exhaustion from the ordeal.
However, the Grand Empress Dowager dismissed her worries, stating that her efforts were worthwhile if it meant quashing Zhao Xiao and Empress Dowager Han's relocation plans. Li Qian, preparing to return to Jinxi to complete the transfer of military power, bid farewell to the Grand Empress Dowager, who cautioned him to be careful and asked Baoning to see him off. Once alone, the Grand Empress Dowager visibly weakened and immediately requested her "life-maintaining soup."
Despite knowing that its potent ingredients would ultimately harm her, she insisted on taking it, willing to endure the pain for even a few more days with Baoning, strictly instructing her attendant not to reveal her condition to the children. Later, Gao Miaorong, while retrieving tonics for Empress Dowager Han at the imperial pharmacy, noticed the preparation of powerful herbs.
Under her persistent questioning and threats, the imperial physician reluctantly revealed that the "life-maintaining prescription" was for the Grand Empress Dowager from Shoukang Palace and that she had been consuming it for three months. Gao Miaorong quickly concluded that the Grand Empress Dowager had very little time left.
Episode 36 Recap
Li Qian warned Jiang Baoning about Gao Miaorong, revealing that she was now allied with Empress Dowager Han. Jiang Baoning dismissed his concerns, but later, out of curiosity, she sent her informer, Chan, who was stationed in Cining Palace, to gather information. Chan reported that after the late emperor's death, Empress Dowager Han returned to the palace with a female physician surnamed Gao, who was always veiled and had been studying medicine texts in Fanhua Hall.
Empress Dowager Han frequently summoned her and greatly trusted her. Jiang Baoning realized Gao Miaorong had been hiding in the palace all along. Meanwhile, in Cining Palace, Empress Dowager Han was furious, physically striking Gao Miaorong. She accused Gao Miaorong of intentionally humiliating her by advising her to go to the Imperial Mausoleums, where the Grand Empress Dowager had publicly shamed her.
Gao Miaorong vehemently denied the accusation, pledging her unwavering loyalty and stating that her own success was tied to Empress Dowager Han's triumph. Empress Dowager Han continued to vent her frustration, wishing the Grand Empress Dowager would "kick the bucket." Soon after, a servant announced that Zhao Xiao was waiting in the Imperial Garden, requesting to speak with Gao Miaorong privately. Suspicious, Empress Dowager Han decided to follow them to see what "dirty business" they were up to.
Unbeknownst to Empress Dowager Han, Jiang Baoning had arranged the meeting with Zhao Xiao as a ruse to lure Gao Miaorong out and expel her from the palace. When Jiang Baoning confronted Gao Miaorong, she denounced her as evil and vicious, asserting that such a person could not remain in the palace. Empress Dowager Han then intervened, claiming Gao Miaorong had saved her and An when they were stranded outside the palace.
A heated argument erupted between Jiang Baoning and Empress Dowager Han. Empress Dowager Han mocked Jiang Baoning, saying she had no right to interfere in palace affairs when she couldn't even manage her own household after being "dumped" by her husband. She questioned Jiang Baoning’s authority, accusing her of "throwing her weight around." The Grand Empress Dowager, who had been strolling in the Imperial Garden due to her insomnia, overheard the commotion.
She learned that Gao Miaorong had been advising Empress Dowager Han. When asked if Empress Dowager Han's words about her marriage were true, Jiang Baoning remained silent, confirming the Grand Empress Dowager's suspicions. The Grand Empress Dowager reprimanded Empress Dowager Han for bringing shame upon the imperial family and sent her back to her palace. She then ordered Gao Miaorong to be taken away.
During the interrogation, Fangling, a servant of the Grand Empress Dowager, revealed Gao Miaorong's past misdeeds: attempting to harm Princess Jiang Baoning, being expelled from the Li Family, and then secretly re-entering the palace to give Empress Dowager Han "bad ideas," even advising her against the Grand Empress Dowager regarding moving the capital. Declaring Gao Miaorong a threat, the Grand Empress Dowager ordered her flogged to death.
Jiang Baoning, despite her past grievances, intervened, explaining that executing Gao Miaorong would tarnish the Grand Empress Dowager's image and that Gao Miaorong had saved Empress Dowager Han and An, thus preserving the late emperor's bloodline. The Grand Empress Dowager relented, commuting the sentence to life imprisonment in the Bureau of Judicial Investigation, forbidding her release.
Afterward, the Grand Empress Dowager, now calmer, pressed Jiang Baoning to explain the full story of her troubles with Li Qian, starting with The Book of Supreme Weapons. Empress Dowager Han, upon hearing of Gao Miaorong’s imprisonment, secretly sent a maid to inform Li Lin, who was distressed and immediately went to visit her in the Bureau of Judicial Investigation. The maid cautioned him that his visit was short and secret.
Gao Miaorong, believing she was on the verge of death, expressed no resentment towards the Grand Empress Dowager, accepting her fate as a consequence of her past obsession with Li Qian and her recent misjudgments in advising Empress Dowager Han. She confessed her long-held envy for Jiang Baoning’s protected life but added that now, having Li Lin by her side, she felt truly fortunate. Her deepest regret, she told Li Lin, was not being with him sooner.
Li Lin, heartbroken, vowed to rescue her. Later, Empress Dowager Han’s maid returned with a new offer: if Gao Miaorong could devise a plan to sow discord between Li Qian and Jiang Baoning, Empress Dowager Han would arrange for her escape, replacing her with an unknown death row inmate.
Gao Miaorong then recalled that the Grand Empress Dowager had been taking a "balanced prescription" made of strong poisons for three months, realizing that the Grand Empress Dowager was on borrowed time. With this knowledge, she formulated a new plan to fulfill Empress Dowager Han's request. In Bingzhou, Li Dongzhi confronted her brother, Li Qian, complaining that he should not have relinquished his military power, as it left Jinxi vulnerable and failed to bring Jiang Baoning back.
Li Qian assured her he had a plan but offered no details about Jiang Baoning. Meanwhile, at a charity house, Qin Yu was teaching Qing An how to peel beans when a man accidentally bumped into her. She instantly recognized him as one of the men who had tried to kill her in the past, who was actually Empress Dowager Cao's secret guard disguised as a disaster victim, and began to scream in terror. Dongzhi and Qing An comforted her.
Dongzhi noticed Qin Yu's trust in Qing An and asked him to protect her. News reached Qing Tai that Li Qian had returned to Jinxi and surrendered his military power. He was delighted, as Li Qian’s previous defenses had frustrated his attempts to conquer Jinxi. Wu Man, Qing Tai’s advisor, suggested this was the perfect opportunity to assassinate Li Qian.
Qing Tai was skeptical, noting Li Qian’s strength and control over Jinxi, but Wu Man confidently declared he had a "perfect plan." Qing Tai then assigned his personal bodyguards to Wu Man, suggesting they could serve as a vanguard or assist in a tactical retreat if the assassination failed. Wu Man expressed concern for Qing Tai’s safety without his guards, mentioning the growing unrest among the populace and the possibility of rebels.
Qing Tai, however, dismissed these fears, boasting that no one in Yongqing dared to challenge him, least of all the exiled Prince An, whom he believed was still "brain-damaged" from Wu Man's hypnosis. Unbeknownst to Qing Tai, Siqin's informants had already learned of his plot and reported it. Siqin informed his subordinate to continue gathering intelligence and reaffirmed that the various patriotic groups, united against Qing Tai's tyranny, were ready to act on Prince An's command.
On a busy street, Steward Li attempted to teach Dongzhi about grocery shopping, but her attention drifted. She spotted someone she thought was Qing An and ran after him, only to realize her mistake. Just then, the real Qing An appeared. As they walked away, Qing An mused, wishing they lived in a peaceful era where he was merely an ordinary merchant, content to have Dongzhi's hand in his.
Elsewhere, Jin Xiao unexpectedly encountered Dong Shanhu and tried to engage her in conversation. He invited her for a drink, but she rebuffed him, especially when he referred to them as "buddies." Growing frustrated by her indifference, Jin Xiao lamented that confessing his feelings was "harder than fighting a war." Later that night, Qing An met with Siqin.
Siqin relayed that Qing Tai’s men, including Wu Man and his personal bodyguards, had infiltrated Bingzhou with the intention of assassinating Li Qian. Siqin proposed that this was the opportune moment to launch a rebellion and overthrow Qing Tai’s tyrannical rule, to which Qing An agreed, urging Siqin to proceed with caution. Qing An also requested that some of their men guard the Li residence, as his position made it difficult to directly warn Li Qian.
Qing An then expressed concern about continuing to meet discreetly to avoid Dongzhi. Siqin suggested he reveal his recovered state to Dongzhi, but Qing An hesitated, fearing that once he reclaimed his identity as the Second Prince of Yongqing, his relationship with Dongzhi would be irrevocably over. Meanwhile, Wu Man, disguised as an old man, approached the Li mansion. He feigned thirst, convincing Steward Li to let him inside for water.
Once inside, Wu Man hypnotized Steward Li to extract information about the mansion's layout and then assumed his identity. Elsewhere, Li Qian was discussing key strategic points in Jinxi with Jin Xiao, emphasizing the importance of securing a particular pass for both offense and defense. Jin Xiao then brought up Jiang Baoning, asking about her and Li Qian's relationship, but Li Qian remained silent, finding it too painful to discuss.
That night, Li Qian dreamt of Jiang Baoning returning, confessing her love and inability to let go of their marriage. He woke with a bitter feeling, realizing such affection only existed in his dreams. Separately, Zhao Xiao attempted to woo Jiang Baoning with a talking parrot that recited a love poem he associated with her. He pressed her to divorce Li Qian, promising to marry her and make her the Marquise Jinghai.
Jiang Baoning dismissed his efforts as mere "unwillingness to accept defeat," advising him to let go of his obsession and find happiness elsewhere, but Zhao Xiao insisted their union was fated. Late in the night, an agent of Empress Dowager Cao infiltrated Li Qian's study, attempting to steal The Book of Supreme Weapons.
Steward Li, the real one who had been imprisoned by Wu Man, managed to subdue the intruder and, using Wu Man's sorcery, extracted the truth about his mission to steal the powerful weapon manual. Shortly after, the disguised Wu Man, posing as Steward Li, intercepted Li Qian upon his return, luring him into the study on the pretense of urgent news. Inside, Wu Man stabbed Li Qian.
Luckily, Qing An, who had been observing from a distance, intervened and saved Li Qian, allowing Li Qian to kill Wu Man in the struggle. At the same time in Yongqing, Siqin led his forces, comprised of patriots and wanted criminals, in a swift and silent invasion of the imperial palace. Qing Tai, indulging in revelry, was oblivious until a panicked guard reported the breach.
Realizing he was outnumbered and vulnerable without his personal guards, Qing Tai quickly made plans to flee. As Qing An departed the Li mansion after saving Li Qian, Dongzhi, who had followed him, recognized him. She tore off his mask, revealing his true face. Qing An, caught, apologized, explaining that he concealed his identity because he feared she would leave him if she knew he was Prince An.
Dongzhi, however, pulled him into a passionate kiss, affirming that she didn't care about his status and would always want to be with him. They embraced, deeply in love. Back at the Li mansion, the real Steward Li, rescued and recovered, expressed his relief and gratitude to Li Qian and assured him that Wu Man had been killed. A physician treated Li Qian’s wound, noting how close it had been to his heart.
Steward Li offered additional guards, but Li Qian declined, stating he was fine. Soon after, Dongzhi and Qing An burst into Li Qian’s room, excitedly declaring their decision to be together. Li Qian, despite his injury, questioned Dongzhi about facing their father and Qing An about navigating the imminent conflict between Mu'an and Yongqing. Both reaffirmed their commitment to each other, come what may.
Seeing their unwavering resolve, Li Qian reluctantly gave his blessing, asking Qing An to take good care of his sister. Later, Li Qian sat alone, drinking, and mused with a touch of bitterness that a young girl like Dongzhi could be so true to her heart and achieve love, while he, Li Qian, found it an "absurd" impossibility.
Episode 37 Recap
Qing Tai managed to escape Qing An's pursuit, but he was unwilling to leave in disgrace. He instructed his subordinate to abduct Siqin, a renowned arms maker, with the intention of having him create weapons. Qing Tai believed that Siqin's expertise in weaponry could compensate for his shortage of manpower, potentially allowing him to challenge Qing An and strip him of a crucial ally. Siqin was seized while walking on the street, knocked unconscious, and taken away.
When he awoke, he found himself imprisoned in a workroom by Qing Tai, who demanded he craft weapons. Siqin refused, stating that the allegiance of people comes from more than just weapons and conquest, a truth Qing Tai, with his tyrannical rule that caused misery for his people, would never comprehend. Qing Tai, however, dismissed Siqin's defiance, warning him that without producing the "Diagram of Divine Weapons," he would be deemed useless.
Meanwhile, Li Qian, despite his old injuries, rushed to the capital. His subordinate, Wei Shu, was puzzled by such urgency, though Li Qian simply stated the matter was more vital than national security. In another part of the capital, Jin Xiao, finally showing some initiative, presented Shanhu with her favorite face-washing cream, the kind Princess Jia'nan preferred, which delighted her. Shanhu's maid noted Jin Xiao's sincere effort in choosing the gift.
Baoning had recently been feeling extremely fatigued and constantly drowsy. Qingke, concerned, suggested calling for a chief physician, but Baoning refused, not wanting to worry her Grandmother. Another maid, however, suggested Baoning was merely using sleep as an escape from her sadness. Li Qian arrived at Baoning's residence to find her asleep. He begged Qingke to allow him a moment to see her.
When Baoning awoke and saw him, she asked him to leave, pointing out that Grandmother already knew about their complicated situation. Li Qian, deeply remorseful, admitted his wrongs, blaming himself for letting the past grievances of their families affect her. He struck himself, confessing he was meant to protect and care for her, not hurt her. He desperately sought her forgiveness, asking for one more chance, and promised to wait for her reply.
Before leaving, he placed some warm pastries for her, reiterating his sincere desire for reconciliation. After he departed, Baoning, looking at the pastries, wept bitterly. She then told her maids to inform Stewardess Meng that she was with Su Su, should Grandmother inquire, wishing to hide her sadness. Li Qian then went to his father, Li Changqing, kneeling to beg for his blessing to be with Baoning.
He declared himself willing to bear the sin of being unfilial and face any consequence for his love for Baoning, stating he was "loyal until death, never to part." Li Changqing was enraged, attempting to strike him and accusing Li Qian of making his deceased mother restless, implying Baoning's father was responsible for her death. During this confrontation, an envoy arrived from the palace, summoning Li Qian.
Li Qian immediately left for the palace, where the Grand Empress Dowager, who had been taking medicine, was waiting for him. She had summoned him, she told Stewardess Meng, to test his sincerity towards Baoning. Upon Li Qian's arrival, she reprimanded him, reminding him of Baoning's sacrifice—marrying him and saving his life when she had the power to end it—and how his current status and power were due to her.
She expressed deep disappointment at his treatment of Baoning and declared her intention to issue an edict for their divorce the next day, claiming Baoning was not a toy to be discarded. Li Qian pleaded with her, insisting that he valued Baoning above all power and status, that he truly loved her, and would not agree to a divorce. In an act of desperation, he tore the divorce edict, proclaiming he would rather die than be separated from Baoning.
The Grand Empress Dowager, having secretly intended this as a test, ordered him to be removed from the palace. Later, she confided in Stewardess Meng that she was satisfied with Li Qian's defiance, confident that he would now protect Baoning fiercely, having learned his lesson. Li Qian left the palace, looking utterly distraught. Meanwhile, Su Su attempted to comfort Baoning, urging her to forgive Li Qian now that he had resolved his inner conflict.
However, Baoning felt that the trust between them had been broken like a shattered mirror, difficult to restore, and confessed she was unsure if they could ever return to how they were. The next morning, Baoning went to Shoukang Palace to visit the Grand Empress Dowager. Discovering that her Grandmother was still in bed, Baoning went to check on her. Upon touching her hand, she found it chillingly cold.
After repeated attempts to rouse her, Baoning realized with horror that her Grandmother had passed away. She immediately called for a chief physician, unaware that the physician had been bribed by Empress Dowager Han. The physician falsely claimed that the Grand Empress Dowager, already advanced in years, had succumbed to a sudden heart attack brought on by immense rage. The palace's death knell soon rang, informing the Emperor and all officials of the Grand Empress Dowager's demise.
Baoning was overcome with grief, expressing gratitude for her Grandmother's lifelong protection and wishing for a future life where their roles were reversed, allowing her to care for and spoil her Grandmother. Later, Stewardess Meng informed Baoning about Li Qian's visit the previous day, explaining how the Grand Empress Dowager had merely been testing him with a fake divorce edict and how he had torn it.
Misunderstanding the true nature of events, Baoning was enraged, believing Li Qian's actions had directly caused her Grandmother's death. Without a second thought, she rode furiously out of the palace towards the military camp to confront Li Qian. At the same time, Li Qian, having just heard the news of the Grand Empress Dowager's death, was about to rush to the palace to be with Baoning, but his father, Li Changqing, tried to stop him from causing further trouble.
Baoning burst into the military camp, demanding to see Li Qian. Upon seeing him, she drew her sword, accusing him of feigning ignorance and denying responsibility for her Grandmother's death. She asserted that nothing in the world could compare to her Grandmother and lamented that because of his actions, she had not been able to see her Grandmother one last time or accompany her on her final journey. She declared that she could no longer be with him.
Li Qian admitted tearing the divorce letter but swore he had not known it would lead to such a tragic outcome. He offered his life as atonement, telling her to kill him. Baoning took out her gilding ball, but before she could strike, Li Changqing intervened, saving Li Qian. Furious, Li Changqing accused Baoning's father of killing Li Qian's mother and now Baoning attempting to kill his son.
He then took his own sword and cut the gilding ball in half. With the gilding ball, a symbol of their bond, broken, both Baoning and Li Qian were heartbroken. Baoning, accepting it as a sign of fate, declared their relationship over and that they were strangers now, before turning and leaving. Elsewhere, Empress Dowager Han went to the prison and released Gao Miaorong.
Gao Miaorong congratulated Empress Dowager Han on her newfound power, but the Empress Dowager was not satisfied. She revealed her intent to eliminate Princess Jia'nan, stating she would not be at peace until it was done. Baoning kept a sleepless vigil in the Grand Empress Dowager's mourning hall, with Su Su staying by her side, offering comfort. Late that night, Empress Dowager Han arrived, feigning grief.
Addressing the Grand Empress Dowager's tablet, she menacingly whispered that she would soon send Baoning to join her. She then approached the haggard Baoning, ostensibly to commend her filial piety, and presented her with a pre-drafted and stamped application to guard the Imperial Mausoleums for life, demanding Baoning's fingerprint. Su Su desperately tried to intervene, warning Baoning that signing would mean she could never return to the capital.
Fortunately, Zhao Xiao arrived just in time, preventing Baoning from putting her handprint on the document. Zhao Xiao took Empress Dowager Han aside, warning her that any harm inflicted upon Princess Jia'nan would be considered an act against him, Zhao Xiao, and he would not guarantee the consequences. Simultaneously, Li Lin visited Gao Miaorong in the palace to apply medicine to her injuries. Gao Miaorong realized that Li Lin had been summoned by Empress Dowager Han, sensing her ulterior motives.
Empress Dowager Han, having failed in her first attempt against Baoning, began to devise a new scheme, one that she believed would be impervious to interference from either Zhao Xiao or Li Qian, and for which she would require Gao Miaorong's cooperation. She ordered her attendants to ensure Gao Miaorong was well cared for and that Li Lin visited her regularly to keep her compliant.
Episode 38 Recap
Li Changqing expressed his anger upon learning that Li Qian had gone to pay respects to the Grand Empress Dowager, believing his son was still preoccupied with Jiang Baoning. He Cuihua quickly interjected, reminding him that the Grand Empress Dowager had been exceedingly kind to Li Qian during her lifetime, making his visit entirely appropriate. She accused Li Changqing of harboring an unforgiving grudge against Jiang Baoning and his son.
He Cuihua questioned if Li Changqing would truly find peace if Li Qian and Jiang Baoning were to part ways permanently, to which he admitted he still would not. She then pointed out that if he could not let go either way, was he willing to see their son live in such anguish? She urged him to set aside his prejudice, especially since the truth about the Li family village incident remained unclear.
Eventually, Li Changqing conceded, acknowledging that both Li Qian and Jiang Baoning were good children. Meanwhile, Jiang Baoning was mourning the Grand Empress Dowager when Li Qian arrived to offer his respects. Upon seeing him, Jiang Baoning became enraged and demanded he leave. During their argument, she fainted. An imperial physician soon confirmed Jiang Baoning was two months pregnant, but she expressed a strong desire not to keep the child.
Li Qian, hidden nearby, overheard Jiang Baoning requesting an abortifacient from the physician, who was hesitant. Li Qian stormed into her chamber, accusing her of being heartless. Jiang Baoning coldly told him that there was nothing left between them, after which Li Qian angrily departed. In the wake of the Grand Empress Dowager's death, Li Qian grew suspicious and had his men investigate the Chief Physician who had attended to her.
They discovered the Chief Physician had hastily left the capital overnight, taking his private medical records, leading Li Qian to dispatch Wei Shu to locate him. Han Tongxin, having been informed of Jiang Baoning's pregnancy, the subsequent abortion attempt, and Li Qian's furious exit from Shoukang Palace, believed her opportunity had arrived. She summoned Gao Miaorong, reminding her of her deep gratitude and instructing her to steal the Grand Empress Dowager’s seal from the palace.
Though hesitant and fearful of the grave consequences, Gao Miaorong complied, seizing the chance to pilfer the seal while delivering medicine to Jiang Baoning’s room. At the Imperial Hospital, Zhao Xiao examined Jiang Baoning’s medical records. He noticed entries for both miscarriage-preventing and abortion-inducing medications. To ascertain her condition, Zhao Xiao visited Jiang Baoning, bringing her longan.
Recognizing his attempt to test her, Jiang Baoning feigned consuming the longan, then discreetly poured it out when Zhao Xiao was distracted, leaving him under the impression she had eaten it all. Jiang Baoning confided in Qingke, vowing not to let her enemies, including Han Tongxin and Zhao Xiao, see her defeated.
Han Tongxin, now in possession of the Grand Empress Dowager’s seal, forged a new edict of divorce between Li Qian and Jiang Baoning by meticulously copying the Grand Empress Dowager’s authentic handwriting. She planned to reveal this edict during the upcoming ceremony where the Grand Empress Dowager’s tablet would be enshrined in the Imperial Ancestral Hall, ensuring maximum public impact. As a reward, Han Tongxin granted Gao Miaorong three days outside the palace to reunite with Li Lin.
During their reunion, a distraught Gao Miaorong confessed to Li Lin that her actions for Han Tongxin had entangled her in a grave predicament from which she could not easily escape. Li Lin recognized Han Tongxin was exploiting Gao Miaorong’s sense of obligation and urged her to leave the palace. Gao Miaorong agreed, but their conversation was interrupted by a rascal demanding money. Gao Miaorong immediately recognized him as one of the men who had assaulted Li Lin previously.
Under threat of being reported to the authorities, the rascal admitted Han Tongxin had hired them. This revelation exposed Han Tongxin's true malicious nature to Gao Miaorong, but she still resolved to return to the palace to rectify the wrong she had committed. Meanwhile, Xie Jianfeng met with Zhao Xiao, reporting his suspicion that The Book of Supreme Weapons might be hidden in the Li Mansion.
He then offered to disclose the true events of the Li family village massacre in exchange for a prosperous future. Xie Jianfeng further revealed that a survivor of the massacre, Qin Yu, was living in the Li family’s charity house in Bingzhou. Zhao Xiao immediately ordered Xie Jianfeng to eliminate Qin Yu to prevent the truth from reaching the Li family.
Later, Zhao Xiao learned that the Grand Empress Dowager had been furious with Li Qian the day before her death. Seizing this opportunity, Zhao Xiao decided to use this information to publicly denounce and eliminate Li Qian. Gao Miaorong sought out Li Qian and confessed Han Tongxin’s plan to use the stolen seal and a forged edict to force his divorce from Jiang Baoning.
She clarified that the Grand Empress Dowager’s death was not Li Qian’s fault but was a result of long-term consumption of a toxic "strong medicine." Gao Miaorong revealed that Han Tongxin had orchestrated Li Qian’s visit to the palace to coincide with the Grand Empress Dowager’s passing, thereby framing him for her death. To verify Gao Miaorong's claims, Li Qian, accompanied by Wei Shu, secretly broke into the Grand Empress Dowager’s sleeping quarters to search for the missing seal.
However, they were discovered by Jiang Baoning. To spare her further distress, Li Qian lied, claiming he had merely lost his way in the dark. This further angered Jiang Baoning, who, still distrustful of him, ordered him to leave. At the Li family’s charity house, Xie Jianfeng attempted to murder Qin Yu, but Winter Solstice and Qing An intervened and rescued her. The traumatic event triggered Qin Yu’s fragmented memories, and she recognized Qing An as her son.
Qin Yu tearfully reunited with Qing An and shared her story, revealing her true name as Zhang Yuqing. She was a disciple of the master craftsman Zhang Zeshi, alongside her senior apprentice Zhang Xiuhe and senior brother The Archduke. She recounted that their reunion in Li family village had led to disaster.
Her senior brother, The Archduke, had urged Zhang Xiuhe to destroy The Book of Supreme Weapons to avoid calamity, but Zhang Xiuhe refused, causing him to leave in anger. Zhang Yuqing then confirmed that the Li family village massacre was not perpetrated by The Archduke, but by forces loyal to Empress Dowager Cao.
After escaping the massacre, Zhang Yuqing was saved and married by King Qing De, but his jealous queen orchestrated her exile, making it appear as if Zhang Yuqing had eloped with a merchant, thus separating her from her son. Qin Yu expressed her profound grief upon learning of King Qing De's passing.
Returning to Li Qian, Gao Miaorong offered him all her property deeds and savings as proof of her sincerity, pressing him to make a decision quickly as Han Tongxin planned to unveil the forged edict soon. Seeing Li Qian's reluctance to confront Jiang Baoning, Gao Miaorong decided to approach Jiang Baoning herself. She informed Jiang Baoning of Han Tongxin’s intricate scheme. Jiang Baoning, after confirming the Grand Empress Dowager's seal was indeed missing, agreed to trust Gao Miaorong.
Gao Miaorong, seeking atonement for her past mistakes, requested Jiang Baoning's protection for her and Li Lin to leave the capital and live a quiet life as ordinary citizens. Jiang Baoning agreed and instructed Gao Miaorong to visit the Imperial Hospital under the guise of preparing incense for Han Tongxin. Gao Miaorong was to acquire some common Soothing Incense, then aggressively demand some precious ambergris. She was then to subtly mix a small amount of the ambergris with the Soothing Incense and burn this special blend continuously in Han Tongxin’s chamber.
Episode 39 Recap
Li Qian, also known as Lord Xin, sought out Cao Xuan, Duke Cheng'en, expressing his concern for Jiang Baoning. He noted that Baoning was currently upset with him and unwilling to meet, especially after the Grand Empress Dowager’s death had deeply affected her, even causing her to faint.
To ensure her safety, Li Qian requested that Cao Xuan arrange for Li family guards to be part of the Imperial Guards on duty at the Ancestral Hall the following day, when the Grand Empress Dowager’s spirit tablet would be enshrined. He specifically asked Cao Xuan not to inform Baoning, fearing it would further distress her. Cao Xuan agreed to the request. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiao, Marquis Jinghai, stood before the young Emperor, Zhao Xi.
Zhao Xiao falsely accused Li Qian of enraging the Grand Empress Dowager, leading to her death. He claimed that Princess Jia’nan, Jiang Baoning, had uncovered the truth but was too unwell with grief to personally petition His Majesty. Therefore, she had sent him to beg the Emperor to issue an edict for Li Qian’s arrest. Zhao Xiao stressed the need for secrecy, citing Li Qian’s power and prestige, to prevent him from fleeing.
Believing Zhao Xiao’s words, the Emperor issued the edict. Zhao Xiao, clutching the imperial decree, immediately proceeded to Li Qian’s mansion to arrest him. Li Qian questioned the charges and asked if the edict was truly requested by Baoning. Despite Zhao Xiao's insistence that it was, Li Qian firmly believed Baoning would not do such a thing. Enraged by Li Qian's unwavering trust in Jiang Baoning, Zhao Xiao had him severely tortured.
Zhao Xiao further taunted Li Qian, claiming Baoning had specifically requested his exile to the harshest, coldest regions for the rest of his life, but Li Qian dismissed his words as lies. Later, Qingke attempted to persuade Jiang Baoning to reconsider her stance and give Li Qian another chance, but Baoning remained silent, her thoughts consumed by the upcoming ceremony. At Cining Palace, Han Empress Dowager (Han Tongxin) complimented Gao Miaorong on her exquisite incense-making skills.
Just then, a guard reported Li Qian’s arrest by Zhao Xiao and his severe injuries from torture. Han Empress Dowager saw this as a golden opportunity. Gao Miaorong, distraught by the news, rushed to the prison to see a gravely wounded Li Qian, bringing him medicine. Li Qian refused the medicine, his only desire to see Jiang Baoning.
Gao Miaorong urged him to prove his innocence himself if he wished to see Baoning and promised to assist him by talking to her. Fearful that Jiang Baoning might have a change of heart, Zhao Xiao, despite Zhao Zhong's suggestion to kill Li Qian, ordered Li Qian’s immediate exile that very night, stipulating that he receive no medical treatment on the journey. Zhao Xiao reasoned that he couldn't risk Baoning’s eternal hatred if Li Qian died by his hand.
The following day, during the ceremony to enshrine the Grand Empress Dowager’s spirit tablet in the Ancestral Hall, Han Empress Dowager proposed displaying one of the Grand Empress Dowager’s calligraphies. She subtly extracted a forged testamentary edict from a scroll, which declared a divorce between Princess Jia’nan and Lord Xin. Jiang Baoning immediately challenged the authenticity of the edict, stating she would only comply if it were genuine.
She asked Stewardess Meng, who had served the Grand Empress Dowager, to identify the incense on the document. Stewardess Meng confirmed that while the scent was similar to the Grand Empress Dowager's usual soothing incense, it contained an additional, unfamiliar fragrance. Jiang Baoning then summoned the Chief Physicians of the Imperial Hospital. One Chief Physician identified the added scent as ambergris, a rare and valuable substance, and confirmed that Cining Palace had applied for it a week prior.
Han Empress Dowager vehemently denied this, but under the Emperor's command to speak truthfully, the Chief Physician revealed that Gao Miaorong from Cining Palace had collected the ambergris, using the Empress Dowager’s name, acting unruly and fierce, and threatening him when he hesitated. Jiang Baoning, having anticipated this, announced that her people had already searched Cining Palace and discovered the Grand Empress Dowager’s personal seal. Faced with irrefutable evidence, Han Empress Dowager realized she had been betrayed by Gao Miaorong.
The Emperor ordered Han Empress Dowager returned to Cining Palace to await her fate. Meanwhile, Gao Miaorong, having already fled the capital with Li Lin, was enjoying her freedom. Li Lin eagerly asked her to marry him, and she happily agreed, saying she did not care for a grand wedding as long as she could spend the rest of her life with him.
Before her escape, Gao Miaorong had left a note for Jiang Baoning, clarifying that the Grand Empress Dowager’s death was caused by the long-term use of a health-nurturing drug and had no connection to Li Qian. She wished Baoning happiness and urged her not to live with regret. Upon reading the note, Jiang Baoning immediately understood the truth and rushed to the Emperor.
The Emperor, already regretting his hasty decision to arrest Li Qian, was infuriated upon learning that Zhao Xiao had deceived him and used Baoning's name to achieve his personal agenda. Discovering that Li Qian had already been exiled, the Emperor immediately ordered his recall.
Jiang Baoning advised the Emperor against publicly punishing Zhao Xiao, explaining that such a move would undermine the stability of Mu’an, as Zhao Xiao and Li Qian were leaders of two strategically vital regions (Nanmin and Jinxi), and would damage the nation's reputation, especially with Yongqing State watching. She offered to handle Zhao Xiao personally.
For Han Empress Dowager, Jiang Baoning proposed lifelong imprisonment on Longevity Hill, a royal residence where she could "repent" for her misdeeds, offering a compromise that satisfied both public justice and imperial compassion. The Emperor accepted both proposals. Jiang Baoning then confronted Zhao Xiao, chastising him for deceiving the Emperor and warning him that there would be no leniency if he ever repeated such an act. Zhao Xiao attempted to justify his actions, but Jiang Baoning turned and walked away.
As Han Empress Dowager (Xiner) prepared for her confinement on Longevity Hill, she discovered her favorite Lyuqi Zither among the late Emperor Yige's old belongings. The zither, which she believed had been broken beyond repair years ago, was now perfectly mended. A eunuch explained that the late emperor had painstakingly sought out master craftsmen to restore it, but it was only completed after his death. Han Empress Dowager was deeply touched, realizing that the late emperor had indeed cherished her.
She reflected on her lifelong rivalry with Jiang Baoning, admitting her defeat, and decided to spend her remaining years by the late emperor’s memory. At the Li family charity house, Qin Yu (Zhang Yuqing), Qing An's mother, was washing clothes by the river when Xie Jianfeng attacked her, stabbing her fatally. Qing An and Li Dongzhi arrived to find Zhang Yuqing already dead. Overcome with grief and rage, Qing An killed Xie Jianfeng.
They buried Zhang Yuqing and erected a tombstone. Qing An informed Li Dongzhi of his decision to return to Yongqing State to rally his former supporters (Dark Division) and overthrow the tyrannical King Qing Tai. Li Dongzhi, steadfast in her devotion, insisted on accompanying him. Before their departure, she sent a pigeon post to Jiang Baoning.
Meanwhile, in Yongqing State, King Qing Tai was torturing Siqin, the most powerful weapon master, demanding that he create powerful weapons and threatening the safety of Siqin’s friends to coerce him. A scout reported to King Qing Tai that The Book of Supreme Weapons was most likely in Jiang Baoning’s possession, prompting King Qing Tai to plan a trip to the capital of Mu’an State.
Back in Mu’an, the Emperor summoned Cao Xuan, Duke Cheng'en, and tasked him with leading troops to ensure Li Qian’s safe return from exile, instructing him to meet up with Marquis Jinghai's troops. Jiang Baoning soon received Li Dongzhi’s pigeon post, which confirmed that The Archduke (Jiang Baoning's father, Duke Zhenguo) was not responsible for the Li Village massacre. Elated by this news, Jiang Baoning sought out the Emperor, requesting his assistance in investigating the true culprits of the massacre.
She recalled that Eunuch Min Zhou had served Empress Dowager Cao (the late Empress Dowager) and might possess critical information about The Book of Supreme Weapons. When questioned, Min Zhou claimed ignorance, but Jiang Baoning noticed his suspicious demeanor. She then instructed her attendants to spread rumors about The Book of Supreme Weapons within earshot of Min Zhou.
His furious reaction, forbidding any further mention of the book and stating the "waters are deep," solidified Jiang Baoning's suspicion that he knew more than he let on. Reviewing Min Zhou’s palace records, Jiang Baoning found it highly unusual that he had been promoted to a steward without any recorded achievements over seven years. Armed with this knowledge, Jiang Baoning summoned Min Zhou.
He continued to be evasive, but Jiang Baoning methodically laid out her findings: the book's origin with a woman in Li Village, its subsequent acquisition by Empress Dowager Cao after the Yongqing people massacred the village, and the implication that it might have been obtained through a transaction with the Yongqing people. She underscored the severe crime of colluding with an enemy state.
Finally, when Jiang Baoning mentioned Zhang Yuqing, the sole survivor of the Li Village massacre, and revealed that she was currently en route to the capital, Min Zhou’s composure broke. Jiang Baoning warned him that her patience was thin, and if she discovered his involvement from Zhang Yuqing, he would face her wrath without mercy.
Episode 40 (Ending) Recap
Princess Baoning, determined to uncover the truth behind the massacre of the Li Village, confronted Min Zhou, demanding he confront Zhang Yuqing. She sternly warned him that her patience was thin, and she would show no mercy if she learned of his misdeeds from anyone else. Qingke then read a message informing them that Miss Li was bringing Zhang Yuqing to the capital to confront those who knew the truth.
Faced with this impending confrontation, Min Zhou confessed that the Empress Dowager, feeling out of favor, had ordered assassins to slaughter the Li Village and steal the Book of Supreme Weapons. He was tasked with retrieving the Book to present to the late emperor, hoping to regain favor. On that fateful day, Yongqing armies happened to invade, allowing the Empress Dowager to frame them for the massacre.
Min Zhou, remorseful, admitted he was only ordered to assist in retrieving the Book and was unaware they would kill all the villagers. Baoning, hearing this, finally understood the full, tragic truth. Meanwhile, Qing Tai, who had been exiled and was now a fugitive, learned that Lord Xin, Li Qian, had been sent out of the city and was being escorted back to the capital. Seeing an opportunity, Qing Tai decided to ambush Li Qian.
In the capital, Zhao Xiao, seeking to atone for his past transgressions, met with the young Emperor. He volunteered to eliminate Qing Tai's remnants, and the Emperor, pleased, agreed, dispatching Lord Cao's men to ensure Li Qian's safe return to the palace. Princess Baoning, worried for Li Qian's safety, sent her maid, Xiaoman, to wait at the city gate and immediately inform her upon his arrival, as she herself was advised against leaving the palace due to heightened security.
Zhao Xiao soon discovered Qing Tai's movements, noting that Qing Tai and his men were following Li Qian's escort on the road back to the city. Realizing Qing Tai intended to harm Li Qian, Zhao Xiao decided to exploit the situation. Knowing that Lord Cao was guarding against his own men, Zhao Xiao believed Lord Cao wouldn't anticipate an attack from Qing Tai, thus allowing Li Qian to be killed without Zhao Xiao's direct involvement.
On the road, Li Qian, still in shackles as a guilty party, was comforted by Lord Cao, who assured him that the Emperor trusted him and that the truth would eventually come out. Li Qian, however, stated that Baoning's trust was all he needed. Their journey was abruptly interrupted when Qing Tai and his forces ambushed them. Lord Cao was knocked unconscious while defending Li Qian, who was subsequently taken captive by Qing Tai.
Zhao Xiao's men, who were observing, made no move to pursue Qing Tai or rescue Li Qian. Separately, in Bingzhou, Dong Shanhu found herself bound and confronted by Shopkeeper Wang and two thugs. She explained that Shopkeeper Wang, having been fired for dishonest dealings, harbored resentment and hired ruffians to attack her. Fortunately, Jin Xiao arrived just in time, scolding the thugs for hurting a woman before rescuing Shanhu and beating her captors.
Seeing her unharmed, Jin Xiao finally confessed his feelings, telling Shanhu that he liked her, and if she no longer liked him, he would simply make her fall for him again. Shanhu, who had been waiting for his confession, happily reciprocated his feelings. Back in the capital, Princess Baoning received news that Qing Tai had kidnapped Li Qian and was demanding the Book of Supreme Weapons in exchange.
She realized that if the Book fell into Qing Tai's hands, the consequences would be dire, potentially allowing him to seize power. While contemplating her options, Qingke accidentally spilled water on the Book, which revealed a hidden secret within its pages. Meanwhile, Lord Cao was brought back to his manor and treated for his injuries. The Chief Physician discreetly informed him that while his wounds were not life-threatening, they might render him infertile.
Overwhelmed by this news and feeling he could not give Su Su the child she desired, Lord Cao began to avoid her. He cruelly told her he did not love her and wished to divorce, claiming he had only married her out of pity, hoping to drive her away. Distraught, Su Su angrily left. Qing Tai brought Li Qian to a secret underground armory, awaiting Baoning's arrival with the Book.
Despite the danger, Baoning, accompanied by Qingke (after sending Xiaoman to wait outside), ventured to the armory, sending a pigeon message to Dongdong and Jin Xiao for assistance. Upon entering, they narrowly escaped a deadly crossbow trap, thanks to the timely intervention of Siqin, a master of mechanisms, who had also been captured by Qing Tai.
Siqin revealed that Qing Tai, having been driven out of Yongqing due to his tyrannical rule and lacking sufficient forces to challenge Mu’an, desperately wanted the Book to create ultimate weapons and conquer the world. Collaborating with Siqin, Baoning created a modified version of the Book, planning to exchange it for Li Qian. She presented the decoy to Qing Tai, demanding Li Qian's release first.
However, after receiving the Book, Qing Tai betrayed his word and attempted to kill them all. Siqin swiftly activated a hidden mechanism, allowing Baoning and Li Qian to escape the collapsing armory, with Qing Tai satisfied he had the Book and not pursuing them further. Su Su, unwilling to accept the divorce, returned to confront Lord Cao, convinced he was hiding something.
She tearfully suggested he was pushing her away because he believed he was dying and wanted to arrange her future. Lord Cao, seeing her genuine love, finally confessed the truth: he was not dying, but his injuries made it impossible for them to have children.
Relieved he wasn't terminally ill, Su Su declared that she loved him regardless of his fertility, reminding him that they were one, and if they couldn't have their own children, they could adopt orphans, forming a loving family together. Overjoyed by her acceptance, Lord Cao embraced her, and they reconciled, looking forward to a new life together. Meanwhile, Baoning and Li Qian reconciled, clearing up the misunderstandings surrounding the late Grand Empress Dowager's death and the Li family village massacre.
Li Qian, having repaired the gilded ball she thought he had discarded, returned it, symbolizing their renewed bond. Baoning then revealed to Li Qian that the Book of Supreme Weapons had a crucial final step, which she had withheld, meaning only she possessed the knowledge to create the true, complete weapon. Shortly after, Qingke brought Baoning miscarriage prevention medicine, inadvertently revealing to Li Qian that Baoning was pregnant and had not given up on their child.
Overjoyed, Li Qian expressed his hope for a daughter whom they would name Li Ancheng, symbolizing peace for the state. As Baoning and Siqin worked to develop the true Book of Supreme Weapons, Qing Tai also urged his men to accelerate the production of his own version. Wei Shu, while searching for Li Qian, stumbled upon Qing Tai's hiding place and reported it to Li Qian.
At the same time, Zhao Xiao also discovered Qing Tai's whereabouts and plotted to eliminate both Qing Tai and Li Qian, showcasing his capabilities to the Emperor and Baoning. Zhao Xiao launched an attack on Qing Tai's stronghold. However, Qing Tai unleashed his weapon, effortlessly killing Zhao Xiao's subordinate, Zhao Zhong, and overwhelming Zhao Xiao's forces. Li Qian arrived, intervening to save Zhao Xiao from certain death.
After being rescued, Zhao Xiao candidly admitted to Li Qian that he had indeed wished for Li Qian to die at Qing Tai's hands, believing that only then could Baoning truly be his. Li Qian, in turn, told Zhao Xiao that Baoning had never harbored romantic feelings for him; his affection was unrequited. He chastised Zhao Xiao for repeatedly trying to sabotage his marriage, calling his actions unjust.
Li Qian urged Zhao Xiao to set aside their personal grievances and unite to defend their state against Qing Tai's threat. For the greater good of Mu’an, Zhao Xiao reluctantly agreed to cooperate. Baoning later arranged a private meeting with Zhao Xiao, accusing him of using his supposed love for her as a pretext to harm her family and friends, questioning whether his intentions were genuine or merely selfish and stubborn.
Nevertheless, she thanked him for agreeing to collaborate with Li Qian against their common enemy and expressed her hope that he would act with true righteousness and not disappoint her. In Yongqing, the Second Prince Qing An, accompanied by Dongdong, set out to track Qing Tai. Dongdong, affirming her deep love and commitment, pledged to stand by Qing An through life and death.
Meanwhile, Li Qian and Baoning enjoyed a peaceful outing, reminiscing about their past and envisioning a future where Li Qian, after defeating Qing Tai, would retire from military life and return to Bingzhou with Baoning for a tranquil existence. Qing Tai, having repaired his weapon, launched a final assault against Mu’an State. Qing An and Dongdong also arrived later. In the ensuing battle, he gravely injured Yun Lin with his weapon.
A furious Li Qian engaged Qing Tai in combat but was ultimately outmatched by the weapon's power. Just as Li Qian's life hung in the balance, the weapon backfired, turning against its creator and killing Qing Tai. Li Qian remarked that Qing Tai's ambition had caused his downfall, and he had met a deserved end. With Qing Tai defeated, the Second Prince Qing An ascended to the throne of Yongqing and pledged lasting friendship with Mu’an.
Baoning and Siqin successfully developed the true Book of Supreme Weapons, delivering both the finished product and its blueprints to the Imperial Palace. Baoning entrusted the future of Mu’an to the young Emperor, choosing instead to embark on a life of travel and adventure with Li Qian.
In recognition of his many crimes, including the murder of Consort Qin Yu, multiple attempts to frame Li Qian, and the injury of Lord Cao, Marquis Jinghai, Zhao Xiao, confessed and accepted his punishment. He was stripped of all his official titles and exiled to Eastern Guizhou, forbidden from ever returning to the capital without summons. Five years passed. In Bingzhou, Li Changqing's family gathered to bid farewell to Dongdong as she departed to marry into the Yongqing royal family.
He Cuihua, though tearful, found comfort in her family's blessings as Dongdong knelt to say goodbye before leaving in her wedding carriage. Jin Xiao and Dong Shanhu were happily married, their love flourishing. Su Su and Lord Cao, having adopted a daughter named Nianci, were blessed with a son, Jinwen, achieving the happy and fulfilling family life they had longed for.
Far away in Bingzhou, Princess Li Ancheng, exhibiting her mother's spirited nature, was punished by her father, Li Qian, and defiantly declared her intention to run away from home with her friends. Meanwhile, Li Qian and Baoning were enjoying a peaceful excursion in the countryside. Li Qian reflected on the joy of everyone finding their happy endings as he and Baoning embraced, admiring the beautiful landscape, content in their love and the peace that had finally settled over their world.
