Rewriting Destiny Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Rewriting Destiny Synopsis
New comic book author An Lan encountered a bottleneck when he created the serialized comic book "Er Shi Si Wei Ai Fu Sheng", because the main characters Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan's persona problems, she was asked by the editor-in-chief to modify before the uploading of the serial.
Meanwhile, in the world of comics, Xia Yubing also had memories of previous episodes due to An Lan's repeated revisions, so she avoided Xu Ziyan, who always wanted to poison his marriage target, and was determined to facilitate his marriage with his second sister, Xia Lan, in order to escape his clutches.
But Xia Yubing botched the matter, not only messing up the marriage of Xia Lan, but also letting Xu Ziyan notice herself, and was chased by Xu Ziyan to get married, and was forced to jump into the river.
At this moment, a mysterious NPC Gu Gu appeared and explained to her the ins and outs of this comic world.
Only then did Xia Yubing understand that she was only a character in the comic and that the only way to keep the comic serialized and for her to survive was to make money in exchange for clicks on the comic world.
Then She set her own goal in life: to try to change her fate.
Rewriting Destiny Recap
Episode 1 Recap
A rookie comic author, An Lan, finds herself at a creative standstill while working on her serialized comic, "Rewriting Destiny". Her editor demands revisions before publication due to issues with the main characters, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan. Meanwhile, within the comic world, Xia Yubing, who retains memories from previous iterations of the story, is acutely aware that her intended husband, Xu Ziyan, has repeatedly poisoned her.
Determined to escape his clutches, she is desperate to facilitate the marriage between Xu Ziyan and her second elder sister, Xia Lan. The story begins with a nightmare where Xia Yubing is married to Xu Ziyan. Servants gossip, claiming the groom preferred the eldest sister, Xia Liuqing, but Xia Yubing poisoned Xia Liuqing to secure the marriage. Xu Ziyan, cold and distant, lifts Xia Yubing's veil and forces a bowl of medicine down her throat, causing her to collapse.
He then orders his servants to bury her in a pre-dug grave. Xia Yubing jolts awake from this terrifying dream, realizing she is still alive. She recognizes this dream as a recurring premonition of her death at Xu Ziyan's hands. An Lan, the author, is grappling with her story. Her editor calls, criticizing the "stupid girl and vicious guy" narrative, stating it lacks positive elements and won't appeal to readers. An Lan promises to make changes.
She attempts to revise a scene where Xia Lan manipulates Xia Yubing into poisoning Xia Liuqing's butter biscuits. Xia Yubing, now with memory of this plot, secretly replaces the poison with sugar. However, Xu Ziyan still misinterprets her actions and poisons her, leading to her death. Xia Yubing finds herself in a seemingly hellish afterlife, confronted by a mysterious figure.
She begs to be sent to the afterlife, but the figure informs her that she has died of poisoning again because the writer is a "newbie" who didn't edit correctly. She is given another chance to return, with a warning that her destiny is her own to change. Xia Yubing finds herself back in her room, the day before her wedding. Overwhelmed by the endless cycle of death, she leaves a note for her maid and attempts to flee.
As she makes her escape, she bumps into Xu Ziyan, who is in the mountains searching for herbs for an upset stomach caused by accidentally tasting a poisonous one. He does not recognize her, noting only her "special pulse." Xia Yubing, however, recognizes him as the man who repeatedly poisoned her. She frantically warns him not to marry any girl from the Xia family, claiming it would "jinx him for life," before running off.
Xu Ziyan, intrigued by her unique pulse, orders his servant A'Guang to find out who she is. At the docks, Xia Yubing is relieved to leave Xu Ziyan behind. She boards what she believes is a boat leaving town, but her cousin, Xue Mu, appears, having come to comfort her. The boatman then informs her it's actually a return boat to town.
Meanwhile, A'Guang reports back to Xu Ziyan, confirming that the mysterious girl was Xia Yubing, the Third Lady of the Xia family, and that Xu Ziyan is scheduled to marry Xia Lan, the Second Lady. Xu Ziyan then sets off for the wedding. Back at the Xia Manor, Xia Yubing is surprised to learn from Xue Mu that it's Xia Lan's wedding day. She's secretly overjoyed that she won't be marrying Xu Ziyan this time.
Her maid informs her that Xia Lan is furious because Xia Yubing hasn't delivered the wedding dress, and is blaming her for not wanting to get married. Xia Yubing notices Xia Lan's personal maid, Xiao Cui, secretly tampering with the butter biscuits in the kitchen, just as she had done in her previous memories.
Realizing Xia Lan plans to poison Xia Liuqing again, Xia Yubing tries to intervene, causing a commotion when she snatches a poisoned butter biscuit from her younger brother, Xia Yaozu, who was about to eat it. Amidst the chaos, Ye Wenzhao, the son of the richest man in Yanxia, crashes the banquet.
He publicly declares his love for Xia Liuqing, praising her baking skills and proclaiming that no one can take her from him, effectively creating a scene and distracting everyone from the poisoned biscuits.
Xia Lan, meanwhile, is fuming, recounting to her maid the chaotic events of the day: Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan's chase, their father throwing Xu Ziyan's father (Xu Guangling) out, Xia Liuqing being punished in the ancestral hall, and Ye Wenzhao's father dragging him away for making a scene and refusing to let his son marry a "cook."
Xia Lan believes Xia Yubing's actions unintentionally saved her from marrying Xu Ziyan, declaring she wants nothing to do with the Xu family. At the wedding ceremony, just as the poisoned butter biscuits are brought out, Xu Ziyan unexpectedly declares his intention to marry Xia Yubing, not Xia Lan. Terrified, Xia Yubing tries to flee, knocking over the trays of biscuits as she goes.
A masked man tries to intervene, but Xia Liuqing subdues him, revealing him to be Xia Yaozu, who was apparently helping Xia Lan sabotage the wedding. As Xu Ziyan pursues Xia Yubing, she reaches a riverbank and, desperate to escape him, jumps into the river, choosing to die yet again. Xu Ziyan immediately dives in after her. An Lan, the author, is on the phone with her editor, who is exasperated by the repetitive plot.
The editor complains about the hero's "wacky" behavior and the heroine's constant deaths, warning that the comic is set to serialize tomorrow and its fate will be decided by viewer ratings, giving An Lan one last chance. Xia Yubing awakens in an unfamiliar room, finding a doll with her name on it, covered in silver needles. She is convinced Xu Ziyan will kill her again. Xu Ziyan enters, offering her medicine.
He claims he won't kill her but insists she must marry him. When Xia Yubing demands to know why, reminding him of his past desire to avenge Xia Liuqing, Xu Ziyan denies knowing anyone by that name. He states that he wants to marry her because her "body is special."
To ensure her compliance, he forces her to swallow a pill made from Ucupra Cacia, warning that without an antidote in three days, she will die a painful death, feeling as if her stomach is being cut open. He gives her an ultimatum: marry him in three days for the antidote. Xia Yubing, resigned to another death, prepares for the inevitable.
But a mysterious NPC, Gu Gu, appears, revealing a shocking truth: Xia Yubing is not a real person but a character in the comic world of "Rewriting Destiny". Gu Gu explains that the writer, her creator, has rewritten the script several times, but this is Xia Yubing's last chance to survive. Gu Gu explains that everyone in this world has a lamp, and when it goes out, they disappear forever.
If the comic fails to gain clicks and revenue, both Xia Yubing and her world will vanish. Understanding her precarious existence, Xia Yubing resolves to take control of her fate and ensure her survival by making the comic a success and changing her destiny.
Episode 2 Recap
Xu Ziyan's father berated his son for publicly declaring his affection for someone else, calling him an unfilial son who brought great shame to the family. Xu Ziyan countered that the arranged marriage was unreliable and questioned why he couldn't choose his bride when both women were from the Xia family.
His father sternly reminded him that the women didn't even share the same father and refused to allow him to change brides, despite the Xia family having already returned his background card. Xu Ziyan, however, remained defiant, vowing to make Xia Yubing agree to marry him within three days, confident in his plan, which involved an antidote for the Ucupra Cacia pill he had given her.
His father, skeptical, confiscated Xu Ziyan's precious notebook as collateral, promising he'd never see it again if a daughter-in-law wasn't presented in three days. Meanwhile, Xia Yubing was still preoccupied with earning money to extend her life. The mysterious NPC, Gu Gu, reiterated that her existence was tied to the comic's popularity, symbolized by sand in an hourglass.
Gu Gu explained that the world's creator was new, and as a protagonist, Xia Yubing's value wasn't high, leaving her vulnerable to death at any moment. To survive and alter the world, her story needed to be captivating. With only one month left, her top priority was to make money, as more money meant more sand, and more sand meant a longer life.
Though outraged by the concept of "buying life with money," Xia Yubing realized she had no other choice. Elsewhere, Ye Wenzhao dramatically appeared in Xu Ziyan's bath, seeking advice. He complained that Xia Liuqing had beaten him for the 88th time and begged Xu Ziyan to help him make her gentler. Xu Ziyan jokingly suggested fighting back, but Ye Wenzhao dismissed it as "boorish."
Instead, Xu Ziyan advised him to cater to Liuqing's hobbies, specifically mentioning her love for making butter biscuits. Back at the Xia Manor, Xia Yubing contemplated selling her jewelry, but quickly realized it wouldn't be enough to sustain her life for long. Recalling Gu Gu's mention of the upcoming Food Festival and her eldest sister, Xia Liuqing, selling homemade butter biscuits, Xia Yubing saw an opportunity to earn money by helping Liuqing win first place.
She realized the festival was happening that very day. At the Food Festival, Ye Wenzhao, with the help of a bribed gatekeeper, planned his "accidental" encounter with Xia Liuqing, who had snuck out of the mansion to sell her biscuits. Xia Liuqing, seeing through his obvious ploys, had already slapped him. Now, as she was gruff with potential customers at her stall, Ye Wenzhao decided to implement Xu Ziyan's advice to make her gentler by helping her make a profit.
Xu Ziyan, a brilliant doctor but terrible at accounting, struggled to calculate the cost of medicines at his shop, consistently making losses. He was left to mind the shop as a result of losing a martial arts contest against his father, who had gone to the Food Festival to find a daughter-in-law.
Upon hearing that Xia Yubing was also at the Food Festival, Xu Ziyan abruptly left his assistant to mind the shop and rushed to find her, muttering that she was "out of her mind" for being there instead of with him. Ye Wenzhao, still trying to help Liuqing, resorted to bribing people to buy her butter biscuits. However, his father, Master Ye, caught him in the act. Master Ye chastised his son for squandering money and dismissed the bribed customers.
Master Ye, intrigued, began to observe the situation from afar. Xia Yubing found Xia Liuqing's stall struggling. She sincerely apologized for past grievances, including bullying her with Xia Lan and causing Liuqing's punishment for making biscuits. She promised to help Liuqing win first place. Despite Liuqing's initial reluctance, Xia Yubing's marketing skills, offering free samples and discounts, quickly drew a large crowd.
Just as sales were picking up, Xia Lan appeared, fueled by jealousy after hearing Ye Wenzhao and his father were at the festival, potentially to propose to Liuqing. Xia Yubing urged Liuqing to remain calm and avoid direct confrontation to secure first place, reminding her of the consequences if their uncle discovered Liuqing had snuck out. Realizing Xia Lan was about to cause trouble, Xia Yubing concocted a plan.
She sent Liuqing one way with the cart and ran the other, attracting Xia Lan's pursuit. During the chase, Xia Yubing cleverly deterred a guard by feigning grief over her supposedly deceased father. Liuqing, having dropped some biscuits during the chase, was disheartened. Xia Yubing, spotting Ye Wenzhao again, borrowed 50 taels from him, promising to be "at his disposal" and help him win Liuqing's affection if her plan failed.
She then bought ten shaved ice cups, requesting the fruits and ice be packed separately. Combining these with Liuqing's butter biscuits, she created a "Butter Biscuit & Cold Beverage Set," selling it for one silver with enticing discounts for multiple purchases. This innovative product was an instant hit, with customers praising its refreshing taste and excellent value compared to other expensive shaved ice. Sales surged dramatically.
Master Ye, watching from a distance, inquired if Ye Wenzhao had hired the enthusiastic customers. Ye Wenzhao clarified that Xia Yubing had devised the ingenious strategy herself. Master Ye was impressed, recognizing Xia Yubing's "witty and cunning" nature and her "great potential to do business," deeming her suitable to be his daughter-in-law. Soon after, Xu Ziyan arrived, announcing his father was also there to observe his future daughter-in-law.
Ye Wenzhao, still enamored with Liuqing, declared that his own father was there for the same reason – though his father's attention had already clearly shifted to Xia Yubing – leading to a humorous moment of shared, albeit mismatched, purpose between the two fathers. As the festival neared its end, Xia Liuqing's stall, thanks to Xia Yubing's efforts, won first place with a profit of 20 taels. Xia Yubing generously gave all the earnings to Liuqing, who was deeply moved.
Xia Yubing advised Liuqing to discreetly return home to avoid Xia Lan, as there was no concrete proof of her escape. However, Liuqing, empowered by their victory, refused to back down. During the award ceremony, both Master Xu and Master Ye publicly declared their sons' intentions to marry Xia Yubing. Master Xu proudly announced his son had broken off his engagement with Xia Lan to pursue Xia Yubing, while Master Ye also stated his son's feelings for her.
As Xia Lan arrived, Xia Yubing, realizing Liuqing was still present, impulsively grabbed Xu Ziyan and kissed him passionately in front of the entire crowd, successfully distracting Xia Lan from Liuqing. A stunned Xu Ziyan, recovering from the surprise, warned Xia Yubing to "just wait" before leaving. Later, at the Xia Manor, Xia Lan was informed that Ye Wenzhao's father had come to propose.
She mistakenly thought it was for her, only to be corrected that it was for Xia Yubing. Shortly after, Master Xu also arrived to propose for Xia Yubing. The two fathers engaged in a heated argument, with Master Xu highlighting his son's public kiss with Xia Yubing as proof of their affection. Xia's father, exasperated by the commotion, had both men escorted out.
In a private conversation, Xue Mu, who had just passed his exams, presented Master Xia (the patriarch) with fresh tea. Master Xia lamented his daughter's ruined future due to Xu Ziyan's actions. Xue Mu reminded Master Xia of his long-standing engagement with Xia Yubing, hoping to press his claim now that Xu Ziyan was causing trouble.
However, Master Xia reminded Xue Mu of his past, when he and his parents were executed for a crime, and Master Xia had taken him in. Master Xia stated that while Xue Mu had passed his exams, he still lacked an official post.
He explained that a legitimate Lady of the Xia family like Xia Yubing could not marry someone without an official position, especially when considering the standing of families like the Xu and Ye families, implying Xue Mu needed to achieve more before considering such a marriage. Finally, Xia Yubing brought her hard-earned 20 taels to Gu Gu, eagerly awaiting the extension of her life. To her dismay, Gu Gu revealed that the money had "vanished," taken as "invalid data," and the system had "crashed." Xia Yubing was utterly frustrated, her efforts seemingly fruitless.
Episode 3 Recap
Xia Yubing's efforts to earn money for a longer lifespan proved fruitless when the collected funds were declared invalid. Her spiritual guide explained that her life-extending earnings would only be valid after she was cured of the potent poison currently afflicting her, making the antidote from Xu Ziyan her only recourse. Desperate, Xia Yubing sought advice from a local storyteller, who provided her with "scripts" on how to win a man's affection.
She tried to gift Xu Ziyan a handkerchief to express her feelings, but he walked past without noticing her. Next, she attempted to stage a graceful fall in front of him after buying a rose, hoping he would help her, but he simply commented on the flower and left her on the ground. Undeterred, she learned he supposedly liked sweet food and baked butter biscuits for him.
However, Xu Ziyan claimed he disliked sweets and refused to try them, leaving her frustrated. He then reminded her that their three-day agreement was nearly up and reiterated that she would receive the antidote only after their wedding. Xia Yubing, despite her protests about disliking him, was left with little choice, secretly vowing to gain control over him once she had the antidote. That night, Xia Yubing snuck into Xu Ziyan's room, hoping to steal the antidote.
Amidst numerous medicinal bottles, she spotted a book titled "Album of Women's Conditions in Yanxia City," which contained her own name. This confirmed her suspicion that Xu Ziyan intended to use her to test his medicines. Just as Xu Ziyan entered, also looking for a specific handbook his father had hidden, they both ended up hiding under the table, startling each other when they emerged.
Xia Yubing confronted him about his intentions, but her accusation was interrupted by a sudden wave of dizziness and pain. Xu Ziyan quickly gave her a pill, remarking that she was too useful to die just yet. Their argument was cut short when Xu Ziyan's father suddenly appeared, wearing a face mask, startling Xia Yubing so much that she fainted. Upon waking, she weakly tried to explain her presence by claiming she was seeking medicine for a headache.
Xu Father, however, was unconvinced, believing they had been "secretly dating" and declared that they should marry immediately. He insisted the wedding take place the very next day. Xia Yubing, prioritizing her survival and the antidote, reluctantly agreed. Later, Xia Yubing directly asked Xu Ziyan if he was marrying her to test medicines, which he openly confirmed, stating her unique body made her the ideal candidate.
They struck a deal: she would marry him, get the antidote, and receive fifty percent of his drugstore, while he would continue his research. They explicitly agreed not to fall in love, as their marriage was purely a contractual arrangement. Meanwhile, Xue Mu, recently appointed as the deputy chief of Yanxia City, bought a beautiful hairpin, thinking it would be the perfect gift for his cousin, Xia Yubing.
The following day, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan visited her father to announce their marriage. Xu Ziyan confirmed her worsening condition, noting the poison's progression. Her father vehemently opposed the union, criticizing Xu Ziyan's family and Xia Yubing's past "embarrassing" behavior. Xia Yubing, however, stood her ground, declaring her "love" for Xu Ziyan and accusing her father of being a "coward" for always tolerating bullying from her uncle, which had made her life difficult.
She declared she no longer considered him her father, asserting her independence. Distraught, Xia Yubing later sat on a swing in the rain, lamenting her fate and feeling misunderstood. Xu Ziyan came to shield her with an umbrella. Shortly after, Xue Mu also arrived with an umbrella and the hairpin, but he realized he was too late, offering a silent wish for her well-being. That evening, their wedding took place.
In the bridal chamber, Xia Yubing suggested they skip the traditional cross-cupped wine, reminding Xu Ziyan their marriage was merely a formality. They drank other wine instead, and as Xia Yubing became increasingly intoxicated, she expressed her frustration with her cowardly father and complimented Xu Ziyan's good looks. She then felt an overwhelming heat and began to undress.
Xu Ziyan realized that Ye Wenzhao, whom he had asked for a drink to "ease her mind," had misinterpreted his request and instead brought a potent aphrodisiac. Both were heavily affected. Xu Ziyan quickly took a "universal antidote" for himself, then, despite Xia Yubing's playful resistance, he fed her a pill mouth-to-mouth. Driven by the wine and the philter, Xia Yubing pulled him into a kiss. The next morning, Xia Yubing awoke disoriented, wondering when she had taken the antidote.
Xu Ziyan chided her for acting like a child and instructed her to sleep separately. Xia Yubing was indignant, asking why she had to sleep on the floor and implying she wouldn't mind sharing the bed since they had "had their wedding night anyway." Xu Ziyan, seemingly flustered, retorted that men and women should maintain distance, to which Xia Yubing provocatively replied, "You are saying that now?" He then conceded, declaring he would sleep on the floor in the future.
Episode 4 Recap
Having entered a contractual marriage, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan began to implement their agreement. To conceal Xu Ziyan's medical practice from his father, Xu Guangling, they decided to divide the Xu Apothecary. Xia Yubing would manage the front as "Xu Snack Store" for her business, while Xu Ziyan would operate his clinic discreetly in the back. A'Guang, Xu Ziyan's servant, found him secretly running his clinic, remarking on his dedication despite being newly married.
Xu Ziyan instructed A'Guang to keep his free clinic for men a secret from Xu Guangling. Meanwhile, Xu Guangling was spending time with Xia Yubing, who was making teacakes for him, and Xu Guangling was explaining the benefits of the Baihui acupoint. Xu Ziyan, observing this, was convinced Xia Yubing was trying to curry favor with his father.
He reminded her of their agreement for her to have half the apothecary and asked for her help in future discussions with his father, proposing a secret signal: he would massage his Baihui acupoint, and she would back him up. Xia Yubing agreed. During dinner, Xu Ziyan tried to pass his disliked carrots to Xia Yubing, unaware they were her favorite. Xu Guangling scolded his son for his behavior.
He then pressed the couple about when they would have a grandchild, creating an awkward silence. Xia Yubing seized the opportunity to suggest that the apothecary business wasn't profitable and they should consider a different venture. Xu Ziyan attempted their agreed-upon signal, but Xia Yubing pointed out he was massaging the wrong spot, causing him to falter. Impressed by Xia Yubing's business ideas, Xu Guangling declared that she should manage the business.
He instructed Xu Ziyan to learn from his wife and insisted they run the business together, splitting the profits. He even offered to write a formal pledge to prevent Xu Ziyan from backing out. Xia Yubing then set about transforming the apothecary. She ventured out with a servant to purchase supplies, cleverly negotiating for chairs by offering free medical services at the Xu Apothecary. Back at the shop, she mentally planned the layout of her snack store.
The servant later presented her with a bag of consultation fees, explaining that Xu Ziyan's free clinic was exclusively for women, but men who insisted on being treated had to pay five times the normal fee. Xia Yubing, delighted by the unexpected income, claimed that her husband's earnings were hers. She also learned that Xu Guangling charged Xu Ziyan monthly rent for the apothecary.
Assuring the servant she would address the rent issue with Xu Guangling, she then sent him to the mansion for ice cubes. Upon his return, Xu Ziyan found the Xu Apothecary completely transformed into a bustling "Xu Snack Store" with a "20% off" banner. His clinic had been moved to a private back room.
To his surprise, he found the new, secluded clinic space quite satisfactory, noting it was much better than his previous setup which was often interrupted by his father. Xia Yubing's new specialty, fruit smoothies, became an instant sensation, attracting long lines of customers. However, a wave of women soon arrived at Xu Ziyan's clinic, complaining of severe stomachaches and internal coldness. They all admitted to consuming multiple bowls of Xia Yubing's "sweet and cool" smoothies.
Initially, Xu Ziyan was pleased, thinking Xia Yubing was recommending patients to him. But upon discovering the cause of their ailments, he became furious. He accused Xia Yubing of harming people for profit and trying to ruin the Xu family's reputation, adding that she had learned such unscrupulous methods from her 'good uncle'. Xia Yubing defended herself, explaining she added brown sugar to balance the coldness and make the smoothies both nourishing and refreshing.
Xu Ziyan dismissed her explanation as nonsense and strictly forbade her from selling smoothies. He realized the ice must have come from his father's supply and ordered A'Guang to return it and warn Xu Guangling against further supply, threatening to disown him. Upset, Xia Yubing accused Xu Ziyan of hypocrisy, reminding him of how he made her test potent herbs and how he was afraid she would ruin his reputation. She argued that her earnings enabled his free services.
Xu Ziyan, unwavering, vowed never to accept a penny from her again. Xia Yubing stormed out but collapsed in a faint just outside the door. Xu Ziyan carried Xia Yubing to a room. When she regained consciousness, he tried to give her medicine, but she refused. Just then, Xu Guangling approached. To prevent his father from discovering his medical practice, Xu Ziyan quickly took a mouthful of the medicine and transferred it to Xia Yubing's mouth.
Xu Guangling opened the door, witnessed what appeared to be an intimate moment, and quietly closed it, expressing his hope for grandchildren. Later, Xia Yubing observed Xu Ziyan practicing self-acupuncture to test new medicines. Soon after, Ye Wenzhao arrived at the snack store, seeking temporary refuge to avoid his father, who was attempting to arrange a marriage between him and Xia Liuqing. Xia Yubing, ever the businesswoman, agreed to let him stay for a fee.
She also made it clear to A'Guang that she would not be the first to reconcile with Xu Ziyan, despite being willing to share the income from Ye Wenzhao's stay. Xu Guangling, determined to see his son and daughter-in-law produce an heir, forced Xu Ziyan into the room with Xia Yubing, even removing his outer jacket. To convince his father that they were being intimate and make him leave, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan intentionally made suggestive noises.
Satisfied, Xu Guangling finally departed. Afterward, Xia Yubing confided in Xu Ziyan that she felt bloated and wondered if she was pregnant. Xu Ziyan took her pulse and informed her that she was simply having her period. Having lost her mother at a young age, Xia Yubing was unaware of menstruation. Despite their recent argument, Xu Ziyan prepared her some brown sugar water.
Xu Guangling witnessed this act of care, feeling relieved that his son was finally tending to his wife. Xu Ziyan then questioned Xia Yubing's intense desire to earn money, pointing out that her original family had always provided for her. Unable to reveal her true motive of "buying her fate," Xia Yubing explained that since their marriage was merely a contract, she needed to secure her own financial future and independence.
The next morning, Xia Yubing found a hairpin placed by her bed. She realized that Xu Ziyan, despite his harsh words, possessed a kind heart, believing he made it to comfort her homesickness. Xia Yubing later sought out her sister, Xia Liuqing, to invite her to co-manage the snack store. Xia Yubing clarified that she had no relationship with Ye Wenzhao and was already married, trying to reassure Xia Liuqing.
However, Xia Liuqing was cold and made Xia Yubing stand as a target for her archery practice, seemingly to torment her. Xia Yubing left in anger. To persuade Xia Liuqing, Xia Yubing then dramatically 'exploited' child workers in front of her sister, exaggerating her grievances. Unable to stand Xia Yubing's tears, Xia Liuqing finally agreed to partner with her. Later, during a thunderstorm, Xia Yubing, terrified, instinctively clung to Xu Ziyan. Xu Ziyan asked why she was afraid of thunder.
Xia Yubing falsely claimed she had been afraid since childhood, while inwardly she believed her fear stemmed from his past poisonings during storms. Xu Ziyan then provided her with earplugs to help her cope with the thunder. Xu Ziyan later asked A'Guang to take some herb tea to Xia Yubing. A'Guang returned, reporting that Xia Yubing was too preoccupied with "low income" and declined the tea.
Xu Ziyan then instructed A'Guang to give her the property deed, stating that he would provide for the family and she shouldn't worry about money. A'Guang praised Xu Ziyan's generosity towards Xia Yubing. However, A'Guang soon returned again, reporting that Xia Yubing had rejected the deed, claiming Xu Ziyan wasn't the landlord and couldn't make such a decision, calling it "fake generosity." A'Guang added that Xia Yubing was currently engaged in conversation with another young master.
Episode 5 Recap
Xia Yubing was still unwell, experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, which she attributed to Xu Ziyan's "poisonous" chicken soup. She also suffered from the heat as Xu Ziyan had forbidden her from consuming cold foods like smoothies and watermelon due to their "cool-natured" properties, especially since she was on her period. When Xue Mu brought her watermelon, Xu Ziyan promptly threw it away, scolding her for her lack of self-care.
He then picked her up and carried her back to their room, declaring his right as her husband to do so, much to her chagrin. Worried about her snack store's declining sales in the summer heat, Xia Yubing sought ways to attract customers. She instructed a servant to hire a storyteller to publicize Xia Liuqing's butter biscuits, believing that exaggerated advertising would boost their popularity.
She also consulted Ye Wenzhao, who pointed out that people dislike sweet foods in hot weather. He suggested they find something to counteract the sweetness without compromising the pastry's taste, predicting that such a product would sell well. Xia Yubing soon discovered Xu Ziyan's secret to enjoying sweets: he always paired them with a special tea to cut through the richness. She found the tea quite palatable and approached him, attempting to appease him with food and a shoulder massage.
She inquired about the tea, which Xu Ziyan revealed he had concocted himself. Xia Yubing proposed a partnership: his tea recipe would be his contribution, and she would give him thirty percent of the profits. Although he initially pointed out that the store belonged to his family, Xia Yubing highlighted its lack of profitability.
They eventually reached an agreement to collaborate on "Qiang Tea" products, which proved to be a resounding success, drawing in many customers and revitalizing the snack store's business. Xia Lan, envious of Xia Yubing's booming snack store, opened an identical teahouse directly opposite it. Her establishment not only copied Xia Yubing's butter biscuits and scented tea but also offered smoothies at a steep 40% discount as an opening promotion, drawing away all of Xia Yubing's customers.
Enraged by this blatant imitation, Xia Liuqing grabbed a sword and attempted to confront Xia Lan, but Xia Yubing intervened to calm her. Xia Lan brazenly declared her actions fair competition and mocked them, while Xia Yubing retorted that merely copying others would never lead to true success. Xia Lan, determined to outshine Xia Yubing, vowed to "deal with them both."
The competition quickly devolved into a fierce price war, with prices plummeting from 30 coppers to a mere 10 coppers per bundle. Xia Yubing's store was left with dwindling customers and excess inventory. Ye Wenzhao advised against continuing the unsustainable price war, noting that Xia Lan, likely sourcing her materials for free as tea was a main business of the Xia family, had an unfair advantage. Xia Yubing agreed, realizing they needed to "develop a new product."
Returning home early due to the lack of business, Xia Yubing discussed their predicament with Xu Ziyan. He conceded that while Xia Lan's products might be of inferior quality, their low prices were still drawing customers. Xu Ziyan proposed enhancing their scented tea with medicinal properties to attract new clientele, suggesting it could "heal people." Xia Yubing, however, dismissed this idea, sarcastically asking if they were reverting to selling medicine and feeling depressed by the prospect.
That night, Xia Yubing was startled to find Xu Guangling (Xu's father) wearing a facial mask. He had brought her food, concerned about her appetite. Upon learning that the mask was for skincare, offering "whitening, removing freckles, and tightening your skin," Xia Yubing realized its potential. This product, dubbed "Fairness Cream," was a creation of Xu Guangling himself.
Despite Xu Ziyan's initial hesitation to let Xia Liuqing try it, citing the potential toxicity of medicinal products and his father Xu Guangling's own past adverse reactions to self-experimentation, Xu Ziyan later vouched for this specific product's safety, having seen his father use it for years. Xia Yubing devised a plan for its promotion. Xu Ziyan then unveiled a new "Beauty Scented Tea" with a wider range of medicinal benefits, capable of treating various ailments and improving skin.
Xia Yubing was thoroughly impressed, recognizing that the combined use of the Fairness Cream and the Beauty Scented Tea would offer a powerful "internal and external" approach to skincare, promising even greater effectiveness. The newly launched Fairness Cream and Beauty Scented Tea quickly became best-selling products, drawing huge crowds and greatly increasing Xia Yubing's business. Xia Lan, observing their rapid success, was filled with jealousy. Soon after, officials from the Office of Administration arrived at Xia Yubing's store.
They announced that a report had been filed alleging that her Fairness Cream caused widespread allergic reactions. Despite Xia Yubing's vehement protests that her product was safe and she was being framed, her store was immediately sealed, her goods confiscated, and she was taken into custody. At the Office, she was formally accused of selling harmful products. Xue Mu, acting as an officer, attempted to defend her, suggesting further investigation.
However, Xia Lan, present at the proceedings, subtly implied that Xue Mu was biased due to his personal connection to Xia Yubing. The authorities ordered Xia Yubing's store to be closed indefinitely for rectification, pending no further reports of issues. Back home, Xu Ziyan expressed his deep concern for Xia Yubing, who recounted the allergy accusations, reaffirming his belief that their products were entirely safe. Xu Ziyan began investigating the allergy claims.
He compared a Fairness Cream sample from their store with one used by an allergic patient, confirming they were "really different." He concluded that the problematic products were "not from Xu's Snack Bar" and suspected someone had "switched the products," wondering if there was a "mole" within their operation. Meanwhile, Xue Mu visited Xia Yubing, offering her a government subsidy form.
Xia Yubing, however, noticed that the form was signed by her parents, who were merely employees, not owners, raising her suspicions about the true nature of Xue Mu's assistance. Xia Yubing, now suspecting foul play, confronted Xia Liuqing, accusing her of switching the Fairness Cream and leaking the recipes for their butter biscuits and scented tea. Xia Liuqing vehemently denied the accusations, demanding evidence, and Ye Wenzhao came to her defense.
In a dramatic turn, Xia Yubing declared, "From today on, we are no longer partners," to which Xia Liuqing defiantly agreed, reminding Xia Yubing that she initiated the split. Following this public fallout, the two sisters went their separate ways. The following day, Xia Liuqing approached Xia Lan, offering her what she claimed were the "real recipes for the Fairness Cream and the scented tea."
Xia Lan, oblivious to the deception, gleefully accepted, believing Xia Liuqing had defected out of anger towards Xia Yubing's public accusations. Ye Wenzhao witnessed this exchange, and despite his strong initial belief that Xia Liuqing would never conspire with Xia Lan due to their mutual animosity, the sight of them together forced him to confront the apparent reality. Xia Lan had the recipes verified by Dr. Chen, who confirmed their authenticity. Eager to capitalize, she immediately prepared for mass production.
However, when discussing the lengthy production time for Fairness Cream, Xia Lan revealed she intended to use existing stock from her warehouse instead of waiting, implying she would pass off these existing products as those made from the new authentic recipes. She then began aggressively selling her "real" Fairness Cream, promoting it with her scented tea for "internal and external" beauty, while disparaging Xu's Snack Bar's products as "fake ones."
While Xia Lan launched her deceptive sales campaign, Xu Ziyan intensified his investigation into the allergic reactions. He visited one of the affected women and discovered that she, like many others with similar symptoms, had purchased her Fairness Cream from a vendor known as Lady Yu. This discovery aligned with his earlier finding that all recalled allergic products originated from establishments around the Rainy Terrace, leading him to suspect its involvement.
Simultaneously, Ye Wenzhao, also conducting his own inquiries, found himself at the Rainy Terrace. There, he observed Fairness Cream and spoke with a woman, presumably Lady Yu, who emphasized her meticulousness with beauty products. As Xu Ziyan was leaving, he coincidentally encountered Ye Wenzhao right at the entrance of the Rainy Terrace. Both men immediately shared their critical findings: the allergic patients had all purchased their products from Lady Yu. Recognizing the shared lead, they agreed to combine their efforts for further investigation.
Episode 6 Recap
Xu Ziyan and Ye Wenzhao investigated Lady Yu, who was connected to the allergic reactions from the Fairness Cream. Xu Ziyan consumed an anti-hangover pill, then got Lady Yu drunk on her sweet-scented osmanthus wine, and found a contract between her and Xia Lan in her room, confirming Xia Lan's involvement. Meanwhile, Xia Liuqing, also investigating, narrowly escaped capture by Lady Yu's guards when a passing mouse created a timely diversion.
It was revealed that Xia Liuqing, acting on Xia Yubing's instructions, had deliberately given Xia Lan a fake recipe for the Fairness Cream. As a result, customers who bought products from Xia Lan's shop suffered severe allergic reactions and darkened skin, leading to angry crowds demanding compensation and the Office of Administration investigating. Xu Ziyan confronted Xia Yubing, presenting her with the fake recipe.
He explained that the recipe included Dendrobium and saffron, which, when combined with Angelica (an ingredient in the authentic Fairness Cream), would cause skin to darken. Xu Ziyan deduced that Xia Yubing, knowing Xia Lan's greed, orchestrated this plot to ensure Xia Lan used the stolen genuine creams, thereby activating the harmful reactions by instructing her to use Fairness Cream and Scented Tea simultaneously.
He accused Xia Yubing of manipulating others and warned her of potential danger if her involvement became public. Xia Yubing, however, maintained her innocence, claiming she never intended for Xia Lan to use the actual stolen products. Their discussion escalated into a heated argument. Xu Ziyan was deeply hurt and angered when he learned that Xia Yubing had confided in her cousin, Xue Mu, about her elaborate plans to frame Xia Lan, rather than her own husband.
Xia Yubing defended Xue Mu, asserting that as her cousin, he was family and completely trustworthy. She reminded Xu Ziyan that their marriage was merely a transactional agreement. Feeling like an outsider and undervalued, Xu Ziyan angrily declared that he had overestimated himself and would no longer approach her, suggesting she could continue to rely on her cousin. A servant later brought Xia Yubing her herb tea, remarking on its bitterness, comparing it to Xu Ziyan's current mood.
Separately, Xia Lan, now imprisoned, loudly protested her innocence and threatened the guards by boasting about her cousin, Deputy Administrator Xue Mu, only to be mocked by them. Later, Xia Yubing dragged a reluctant Xia Liuqing to meet Ye Wenzhao, where Xia Liuqing, after much prompting, finally apologized to him. Ye Wenzhao then revealed that while Xia Yubing was busy with her scheme, Xu Ziyan had been working tirelessly to gather evidence of the allergen to help her.
He further clarified that Xu Ziyan's absence from home was due to his provision of free clinic services to female patients in Rainy Terrace, not for casual rendezvous as Xia Yubing had suspected. Upon seeing a "Free Clinic" sign, Xia Yubing realized her misunderstanding. Realizing her error, Xia Yubing confided in Xu Father, who, while humorously acknowledging wives are always right, mentioned Xu Ziyan's upcoming birthday in three days and his lifelong ambition to surpass his father in martial arts.
Inspired, Xia Yubing planned a surprise. She sent a servant to ask Xu Ziyan to come to the snack bar at 7 PM for a surprise. She waited late into the night, but he was delayed. Heartbroken, she left him a box with a note and a handmade sweet dessert, then walked home alone in the pouring rain. Xu Ziyan eventually arrived, found the note and dessert, and then found Xia Yubing crying in the rain.
He joined her under his umbrella, comforting her and confirming he had received her gifts. Back home, Xia Yubing sheepishly admitted she had even burned her scalp while making the cake. Xu Ziyan, initially scolding her for being careless, quickly softened. Xia Yubing confessed she had kept her plans from him to protect him, believing their marriage was merely a contract and he would abandon her in times of trouble.
Xu Ziyan playfully assured her that next time she should tell him everything so they could "eat prison meals together." Reconciled, they shared a drink. Meanwhile, Xia Deshui (Xia Lan's father) and Xue Mu visited Xia Lan in prison. Xia Lan tearfully begged her father for help, but Xue Mu explained that her penalty depended on the Inspection Ministry's findings regarding harmful ingredients in her products.
He suggested that Xu Ziyan, whose family was renowned for herbal knowledge, could testify that the herbs were harmless to aid her case. Later, at the reopened snack bar, Xia Deshui angrily confronted Xia Liuqing, slapping her and accusing her of betraying Xia Lan. Xia Yubing and Ye Wenzhao intervened, protecting Xia Liuqing.
Xia Deshui then pulled Xu Ziyan aside, pleading with him to testify in court that Xia Lan's products, though causing allergies, were made with non-toxic herbs and that the reactions were due to improper use. Xu Ziyan acknowledged the herbs were non-toxic but insisted Xia Lan deserved punishment for selling shoddy products and plagiarizing Xia Yubing's ideas. Enraged by Xu Ziyan's refusal, Xia Deshui suffered a heart attack and fainted.
Xu Ziyan quickly moved him to the clinic, where Xu Father arrived and saved Xia Deshui with an acupuncture needle. Witnessing Xu Ziyan's secret medical practice, and fearing he would make a mistake in treatment if not for his own timely intervention, Xu Father angrily scolded him and vehemently forbade him from practicing, threatening to disown him and closing both the clinic and the snack bar.
Xia Yubing tried to mediate, but Xu Ziyan was unwilling to apologize for his medical pursuits. That night, Xia Yubing brought bird's nest soup to Xu Father, inquiring about his strict stance. Xu Father recounted his painful past: as a respected physician, he tragically failed to save his wife (Xu Ziyan's mother) from an abdominal tumor, which he only discovered at a terminal stage. This profound helplessness led him to abandon medicine and fear Xu Ziyan would suffer similarly.
He explained that Xu Ziyan's relentless study of female diseases was an attempt to find a cure for his mother's ailment. Xia Yubing argued that Xu Ziyan's passion extended beyond personal grief, aspiring to save other women from similar fates by raising awareness for early detection. Moved, Xu Father relented, allowing Xu Ziyan to continue his practice. However, he then casually mentioned that since Xia Yubing was so optimistic, her own "disease" might be cured.
Shocked, Xia Yubing learned she also had an abdominal tumor, a fact Xu Ziyan had apparently kept from her. Soon after, at the Xia Manor, Xia Yubing's father (Xia Shi) and her paternal uncle, Xia Deshui, pressured her to testify for Xia Lan. Xia Yubing vehemently refused, arguing that Xia Lan deserved her punishment for her malicious actions. Her father dismissed her concerns as "just business" and about "money," leaving Xia Yubing feeling disregarded by her own family.
As she grew faint, Xu Ziyan arrived, supporting her and sternly declaring her a member of the Xu Family. He warned Xia Deshui that Xia Lan, having committed wrongdoing, would not receive his testimony unless Xia Deshui apologized to Xia Yubing. He further threatened severe consequences if they continued to harass his wife. Later, Xia Yubing, shaken by the revelation of her illness, asked Xu Ziyan if she was dying, but he merely attributed her concern to tiredness.
Episode 7 Recap
Xia Yubing, now fully aware of her terminal illness, felt increasingly unwell, experiencing dizziness and coughing up blood. When Xu Ziyan noticed her symptoms, he realized her condition was critical. Before she could even finish her thoughts, Xia Yubing fainted. After bringing her back to the Xu Manor, Xu Ziyan prepared medicine, insisting she drink it. He promised she wouldn't die, proclaiming, "If I don't allow you to die, you can't die," emphasizing the validity of their engagement.
Despite her initial reluctance, believing her disease to be incurable and wishing to die in peace, Xu Ziyan forcefully administered the medicine. A few days later, Xia Yubing remained withdrawn, refusing to take her medicine. She eventually left her room and discovered books in Xu Ziyan's study, specifically one titled "Only Morality is Distantly Fragrant," which indicated his genuine efforts to find a cure for her.
Shortly after, she encountered the mysterious Boss (Gu Gu), who explained that her inaction as the protagonist was causing their comic world to unravel, threatening everyone's existence. The Boss warned that if she didn't take initiative, all the characters would disappear, with her being the last. Though initially despairing, Xia Yubing was reminded that while there might be no cure "now", that didn't preclude a future solution, especially in a comic world where settings could be broken.
Realizing that taking initiative could save everyone, she resolved to fight her illness. As Xia Yubing began to take action, the world around her stabilized, and the people who had disappeared returned. Learning of her condition, Deputy Administrator Xue Mu gathered many esteemed doctors from Yanxia Town, including former palace physicians, to diagnose her. Xu Ziyan, also arriving to check on her, encountered Dr. Li, who confirmed the collective effort to treat Miss Xia's "intractable disease."
Seeing Xia Yubing with Xue Mu, Xu Ziyan became visibly angry. He confronted Xia Yubing, asserting that he alone possessed the cure for her illness. He reminded her of their contractual agreement and instructed her to maintain a proper distance from Xue Mu to prevent gossip, a conversation Xue Mu discreetly overheard. Meanwhile, Xia Lan, still imprisoned, caused a commotion over food. A guard attempted to punish her, but Xue Mu intervened, citing the Criminal Law against abusing suspects.
He personally brought her food and promised to secure her release, earning Xia Lan's gratitude. However, Xue Mu's true motive was to use Xia Lan as a means to investigate the suspicious circumstances surrounding his parents' death. To further his plan, Xue Mu visited Xu Ziyan's father (Xu Guangling), presenting a gift and asking him to intercede for Xia Lan.
He argued that familial discord between Xia Lan and Xia Yubing would reflect poorly on Xia Yubing as the Xu family's daughter-in-law. Xu Ziyan's father, wishing to spare Xia Yubing further distress, agreed but secretly perceived Xue Mu as a deeply calculating individual with hidden agendas. Xia Yubing later commissioned a painter to create a portrait, ensuring her face was not clearly depicted, humorously attributing it to doing good deeds anonymously.
She then sought advice from Ye Wenzhao on how to reconcile with Xu Ziyan. Ye Wenzhao, observing Xu Ziyan's reserved nature, advised Xia Yubing to always agree with Xu Ziyan, saying "You're right" to his words, "Good job" to his actions, and "Hubby! You're always the correct one!" even if he was mistaken. As an alternative, he jokingly suggested employing a "beauty trap."
During their meal, Xia Yubing accidentally choked, and Ye Wenzhao patted her back, a scene witnessed by both Xia Liuqing and Xu Ziyan, leaving them both feeling displeased. Upon her release from prison, Xia Lan's brother organized a celebratory ceremony. Xia Lan recognized Xia Yubing in the portrait as the person who had reported her. Fueled by a deeper hatred, she vowed revenge, telling her brother to "make her crawl."
Soon after, three men, hired by Xia Lan to kidnap Xia Yubing, mistakenly kidnapped Ye Wenzhao. The kidnappers, upon realizing their error, decided to kill Ye Wenzhao to prevent identification. However, Ye Wenzhao cleverly negotiated, offering money if they delivered a ransom note to his father, which they eventually agreed to. Xia Liuqing then arrived at the hideout, attempting to rescue Ye Wenzhao, inadvertently revealing that she was the intended target. The kidnappers then tied up Xia Liuqing as well.
Xia Yubing learned of the double kidnapping and immediately set out to rescue them. Arriving at the hideout, she presented a fake deed for the snack shop, but the kidnappers quickly identified it as fraudulent due to an inverted seal. Just as they prepared to harm her, Xu Ziyan appeared, carrying the real deed. While the kidnappers were distracted by Xu Ziyan's arrival, Xia Liuqing managed to untie herself and engaged them in a fight.
Ye Wenzhao bravely shielded Xia Liuqing from an attack, sustaining an injury to his arm. Together, they managed to subdue the kidnappers. Back home, Xia Yubing attempted to apologize to Xu Ziyan, adhering strictly to Ye Wenzhao's advice. When Xu Ziyan teasingly implied they should complete their marital obligations before he wrote divorce papers, Xia Yubing awkwardly responded with apologies.
She then asked if the deed Xu Ziyan had exchanged was fake, only to be utterly shocked when he confirmed it was genuine. Realizing the gravity of the situation and suspecting Xia Lan's involvement, Xia Yubing braced herself for further confrontation. Meanwhile, Xia Lan, reveling in possession of the actual snack shop deed, was startled by a ghostly figure appearing outside her door.
Episode 8 Recap
Xia Yubing and Xia Liuqing were trying to retrieve the real title deed for Xu's snack store, which had been lost due to Xu Ziyan's earlier blunder. Xia Liuqing quickly recognized that the ransom letter was written by Xia Yaozu, noting the distinctive reversed dots in the character "God Temple," a known habit of his. They suspected Xia Lan was coercing him. To retrieve the deed, Xia Yubing and Xia Liuqing disguised themselves as ghosts.
Xia Yubing, suspended by a rope, confronted a terrified Xia Lan, demanding the title deed, which Xia Lan promptly surrendered. Later, the two kidnappers Xia Lan had hired, still alive, confronted her for payment. Xia Lan was shocked they weren't dead and recalled hearing the "ghost" call out "Liuqing," revealing Xia Yubing and Xia Liuqing's trick. Enraged, Xia Lan confronted Xia Yubing at the snack store.
Xia Yubing presented the original kidnapping letter, pointing out Xia Yaozu's handwriting as definitive proof of Xia Lan's involvement in the abduction of Xia Liuqing and Ye Wenzhao. Xia Lan, holding the damning evidence, quickly ran off to confront Xia Yaozu. She found him writing, and he confessed that he had written the ransom note because the kidnappers couldn't read.
Xia Yaozu's peculiar habit of reversing two dots in certain characters, which Xia Liuqing had initially noticed, became undeniable proof of his complicity. Xue Mu, suspecting that Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan's marriage was merely a contract, began to frequently visit Xia Yubing at her snack store under the pretense of official business, such as delivering a subsidy certificate.
His presence, and friendly interaction with Xia Yubing, clearly annoyed Xu Ziyan, who asserted that Xia Yubing was his wife and told Xue Mu to stay away. Xue Mu then deliberately brought up their "contract couple" status, which caused Xu Ziyan to panic and demand to know how he knew. This reaction confirmed Xue Mu's suspicion.
Xue Mu then smugly declared that he knew Xia Yubing far better than Xu Ziyan ever could, detailing her likes, dislikes, and daily habits, confidently stating that the two would eventually part ways. Meanwhile, Xue Mu's diligence in handling cases had impressed his superior, who entrusted him with temporary authority during an official absence. Xue Mu secretly intended to use this newfound power to investigate his parents' murder.
Around this time, Xia Lan, who had developed a crush on Xue Mu, sought him out, expressing concern for his well-being and giving him a love fortune charm. Xue Mu accepted her affections, subtly implying their relationship was more than just familial, all while planning to use her for his own investigative purposes. Feeling uneasy about Xia Yubing's growing closeness to Xue Mu, Xu Ziyan began to deliberately avoid her.
Consumed by jealousy and wanting to gain Xia Yubing's attention, Xu Ziyan hatched a plan to feign illness. He instructed his servant, A'Guang, to prepare an overly hot towel to make him appear feverish and then spread the word of his illness to everyone at the snack bar, except for Xia Yubing. Despite his instructions, Xia Yubing somehow learned of his condition and rushed to his side, deeply concerned.
She tried to administer medicine, but a customer's call drew her away. As A'Guang attempted to feed Xu Ziyan the medicine in her absence, Xu Ziyan casually admitted he wasn't sick. Xia Yubing, returning to the room, overheard this confession. Furious at his deception, she stormed out. Later, a frustrated and drunken Xu Ziyan vented his frustrations to Ye Wenzhao, lamenting Xia Yubing's apparent indifference and angrily comparing himself to Xue Mu, even daring her to divorce him.
After his drunken confession to Ye Wenzhao, Xu Ziyan received a helpful suggestion. Ye Wenzhao, understanding Xu Ziyan's predicament, arranged for a potential partner, Mr. Jin, to invest in Xia Yubing's business, making it appear as though Xu Ziyan had orchestrated the introduction. This gesture pleased Xia Yubing, prompting her to reconcile with Xu Ziyan. During a visit to a bustling lantern festival, Xia Yubing questioned Xu Ziyan about his recent aloofness.
Xu Ziyan, still bothered by Xue Mu's knowledge, directly asked Xia Yubing if she had revealed their contract marriage to Xue Mu. Xia Yubing earnestly denied it, swearing on her money, a vow Xu Ziyan knew she wouldn't break, which finally put his mind at ease. Despite Xu Ziyan's continued denial of jealousy, Xia Yubing playfully teased him.
As they enjoyed the festive atmosphere, Xia Yubing found her sugar-coated haws sour and offered them to Xu Ziyan, who, with a sly remark about "yearning for sour food lately," accepted them. Together, they watched the dazzling fireworks, with Xia Yubing admiring the display and Xu Ziyan admiring her, a subtle smile playing on his lips. Feeling a touch shy, Xia Yubing then instructed Xu Ziyan to move back into the clinic the following day.
Following their reconciliation, Xia Yubing was approached by Zhao Linglong, a wealthy woman introduced by Xue Mu, who offered to threefold her investment in the snack bar. However, Zhao Linglong's exorbitant offer came with a shocking condition: Xia Yubing must divorce Xu Ziyan, as Zhao Linglong desired to marry him, having learned of their contract marriage. The thought of Xu Ziyan with another woman made Xia Yubing feel dizzy, and she eventually fainted.
Xu Ziyan diligently watched over her recovery, chiding her for neglecting her health. Knowing her aversion to medicine, he thoughtfully crafted a medicinal sachet containing potent herbs like seahorse and pilose antler, intending for it to prevent her fainting spells and remind her to eat regularly. He tenderly expressed his wish for them to journey through life together, valuing their shared companionship. Deeply moved by his care, Xia Yubing embraced him, realizing and acknowledging his profound kindness.
Later, Xia Yubing decisively rejected Zhao Linglong's terms. She clearly stated that while she appreciated the investment, she would not compromise her relationship with Xu Ziyan, acknowledging his various quirks and annoyances but firmly declaring him her cherished "partner." Unbeknownst to Xia Yubing, Xu Ziyan was standing outside the door and overheard her heartfelt declaration, bringing a satisfied smile to his face. With her condition unmet, Zhao Linglong withdrew her investment offer.
As Xia Yubing stepped out, she encountered Xue Mu, who subtly revealed that he had masterminded Zhao Linglong's proposition as part of his ongoing scheme to separate Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan. Just as a sudden thunderstorm broke out, a surprised Xia Yubing saw Xu Ziyan approaching, holding an umbrella to shield her from the rain.
Episode 9 Recap
Xia Yubing was walking when a sudden downpour began. Xu Ziyan appeared behind her, holding an umbrella over her head. Later, at Xu's Snack Bar, the employees mistook Xia Yubing's quiet focus for sadness, believing she was upset about the sluggish business. Xia Yubing removed her earplugs and revealed she had been carving the word "Morning" into her desk to motivate herself to come to work early.
Observing Xia Yubing's mood, Xia Liuqing offered her some miniature shortbread, which sparked an idea in Xia Yubing. Inspired by the convenience of small, portable snacks, Xia Yubing developed a new product: individual tea bags packaged in sachets, making tea easy to carry and brew. Xu Ziyan initially expressed support for Xia Yubing's idea.
However, Ye Wenzhao expressed skepticism about the market for such a product, questioning its reliability and whether people would truly buy it, especially those particular about tea. Xia Yubing realized that instead of selling to tea connoisseurs, she should target those who were less particular.
Inspired by the exclusive calligraphy of Master Su on Ye Wenzhao's fan, Xia Yubing decided to print calligraphies by popular figures like Master Su, Young Master Tang, Young Master Qin, and Doctor Xu, along with portraits of beautiful women from Rainy Terrace, onto her tea bags. This unique marketing strategy quickly led to a boom in sales. However, the initial excitement faded, and sales for less popular calligraphies began to decline, causing Xia Yubing to worry about unsold inventory.
Ye Wenzhao then suggested a lucky draw system for the tea bags. Following his advice, Xia Yubing introduced a blind box system, where each box offered a chance to win exclusive, unpublished handwriting from Master Su or rare portraits of the Rainy Terrace beauties. This new approach created a buying frenzy as customers purchased multiple boxes hoping to find the most coveted items.
Ye Wenzhao informed Xia Yubing that his family, the Ye Family, decided to invest in her successful blind tea bag business, and that he had spoken up for her. In return for his support and the investment, Xia Yubing subtly hinted that Xia Liuqing had been showing a softer attitude towards him, fueling Ye Wenzhao's romantic interest.
Soon after, Xu Ziyan's father, pleased with Xia Yubing's entrepreneurial success, presented her with the title deed to Xu's Snack Bar as a belated bride price, openly expressing his desire for a healthy grandson. Xia Yubing, mindful of her contract marriage with Xu Ziyan, awkwardly assured him she would "work on that." Xia Yubing then decided to expand operations at the snack bar.
She transformed the main hall into a prominently branded "God of Medicine Xu's Consultation Room" with a large sign, while secretly planning to convert Xu Ziyan's original consultation room into a storage space for her growing inventory. Meanwhile, Xia Deshui, Xia Lan's father and Xia Yubing's paternal uncle, learned that Xu Ziyan's father had gifted the snack bar's title deed to Xia Yubing.
When Xia Lan arrived to complain about Xia Yubing's thriving "blind tea bag" business, Xia Deshui took the opportunity to instruct his daughter on how to maintain two sets of account books—one real, for their internal use, and one falsified, for the government—as a method of tax evasion. Unbeknownst to them, Xue Mu, who had just arrived at the Xia manor, overheard this incriminating conversation. Later, Xue Mu took Xia Lan to a lantern festival.
During their outing, he pretended to be concerned about the "open secret" of the two account books and subtly tried to extract information from Xia Lan about where her father kept his ledger, all while implying that, as a member of the Office of Administration, he could offer assistance. Xia Yubing's biological father, Xia Shi, accompanied by her paternal uncle Xia Deshui, visited the snack bar.
Xia Shi asserted that, by tradition, the bride price should be managed by the bride's parents, and he demanded that Xia Yubing surrender the title deed and account books to the Xia Family, with Xia Deshui supporting him. Xia Yubing vehemently protested, arguing that the Xia Family had never supported her during her marriage or business difficulties, always favoring Xia Lan, and were only interested now that she had achieved success.
Xia Deshui countered, claiming she owed her life and social standing, including her marriage to Xu Ziyan, to the Xia Family. Xia Shi then urged her to comply for the sake of the family's reputation, promising that she would still be allowed to manage the store. Under immense pressure from both her father and uncle, Xia Yubing reluctantly handed over the account books and the store's seal. Seeing Xia Yubing distraught, Xu Ziyan attempted to console her.
He then went to the Xia Manor to speak with Xia Shi and Xia Deshui, bringing expensive medicinal gifts to persuade them to return the store's seal and account books. Xia Shi and Xia Deshui were pleased with the gifts. Xia Deshui dodged Xu Ziyan's request, reasserting the customs surrounding bride prices. When pressed, Xia Shi claimed the items were no longer in his possession, having given them to Xia Deshui for safekeeping.
Xu Ziyan offered to buy back the title deed and account books, but Xia Deshui scoffed at the idea, calling Xu Ziyan a traitor for offering Xu Family money to reclaim Xu Family property. As Xu Ziyan left, he warned Xia Shi about his ongoing heart condition, suggesting his tea-drinking habits might be exacerbating it. Xia Shi angrily dismissed his concerns.
Concerned by Xia Shi's agitated state, Xu Ziyan decided to return shortly after leaving, only to find Xia Shi dead. Meanwhile, while Xia Deshui and Xia Lan were at the play, Xue Mu secretly entered Xia Deshui's room. He discovered the hidden account books, confirming the tax evasion.
More disturbingly, he found a letter revealing Xia Deshui's involvement in a scheme to frame and execute innocent servants to "remove all concerns," strongly indicating Xia Deshui's culpability in the deaths of Xue Mu's own parents. Back at the Xia manor, Xia Lan confided in her father that she wished to marry Xue Mu, praising his excellent qualities, promising future as Deputy Administrator, and his kindness towards her.
Her father reacted with furious opposition, vehemently rejecting the match due to Xue Mu's humble background, referring to him as "the son of peddlers" and unworthy of his daughter. He sternly forbade Xia Lan from contacting Xue Mu, even threatening to confine her indefinitely. Xia Lan promptly brought Xu Ziyan to court, accusing him of murdering her father.
Xu Ziyan denied the charge, explaining that Xia Shi had shown signs of illness during their argument, prompting him to return out of concern for Xia Shi's heart condition, only to find him deceased. Xia Lan and her companion insisted that Xia Shi had been perfectly healthy prior to Xu Ziyan's visit.
To substantiate his claim of a pre-existing heart condition, Xu Ziyan questioned Xia Lan and her companion about specific symptoms Xia Shi had exhibited over the years, such as chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, and needing support to lie down. They reluctantly confirmed these symptoms but downplayed them as minor or age-related.
Xu Ziyan then clarified that these were definitive indicators of serious heart disease, not mere indigestion, and recalled an earlier incident where Xia Shi had fainted at Xu's Snack Bar due to a heart attack. When an official doctor stated that Xu Ziyan's diagnosis was a theory lacking post-mortem proof, Xu Ziyan proposed an autopsy. Xia Lan fiercely opposed this, accusing him of desecrating her deceased father's body. The judge intervened, restoring order and warning against further disruption.
Ultimately, the judge ruled that there was no evidence of murder or a direct link between Xu Ziyan and Xia Shi's death. Xu Ziyan was declared not guilty and immediately released, closing the case.
Episode 10 Recap
At her father’s mourning hall, Xia Lan, consumed by grief, vehemently accused Xu Ziyan and Xia Yubing of conspiring to murder her father, Xia Deshui, out of envy. Her heated accusations led to a confrontation with Xia Liuqing, who attempted to strike Xia Lan but hit Xia Yaozu instead when he intervened. Later, Xia Lan confided in Xue Mu, reiterating her conviction that Xu Ziyan was the killer and vowing to make him pay.
Xue Mu, while feigning sympathy, noted the lack of concrete evidence but confirmed that servants heard Xu Ziyan arguing with Xia Deshui. He then subtly urged Xia Lan to prioritize her health for future vengeance. After everyone departed, Xue Mu approached Xia Deshui’s tomb, hinting at his hidden involvement in Xia Deshui's death. Meanwhile, Xia Yubing questioned Xu Ziyan about his argument with her father. Xu Ziyan admitted he had gone to retrieve the store’s assets.
Xia Yubing warned him that the Xia family would suspect him given Xia Deshui's sudden death after their encounter. Xu Ziyan attempted to explain Xia Deshui's heart disease, but when pressed, he confessed he was "not sure" of the true cause, keeping the full details of what he witnessed from Xia Yubing to spare her worry. The city’s Administrator, Chen Liao, was grappling with tax deficits and an impending audit by the Censorate.
Xue Mu seized this opportunity, informing Chen Liao that Xia Deshui had kept two sets of account books to evade taxes and proposed seizing the Xia family's assets to cover the shortfall, assuring Chen Liao he would be absolved of any wrongdoing. Subsequently, officers raided the Xia Manor, uncovered the fraudulent account books, and ordered the closure of all Xia family stores. A distraught Xia Lan turned to Xue Mu for assistance, who again feigned concern.
To pay the overwhelming taxes, Xia Lan, still holding her father's spirit tablet, was forced to sell the Xia family's land deeds at a significantly reduced price to Xu Guangling, with Xue Mu subtly facilitating the transaction. Later, while dining with Xue Mu, Administrator Chen Liao expressed his gratitude and promised to recommend Xue Mu as his successor, making him the next Head Administrator of Yanxia City.
However, their celebration was abruptly interrupted by Censorate officers who arrested Chen Liao, citing a prior report of his collusion and bribery with Xia Deshui. Xue Mu then dramatically revealed his betrayal, declaring that his actions were an act of revenge: Chen Liao and Xia Deshui had framed his parents fifteen years ago. As Chen Liao was dragged away, he angrily dismissed Xue Mu as a "sparrow" incapable of becoming a "phoenix."
Xue Mu defiantly retorted that even a sparrow could bring down powerful figures. Xue Mu then assumed the prestigious role of Administrator, prominently displaying a plaque engraved with "Serving the Public with Honesty" in his new office. Following the family's financial ruin, Xia Yaozu quickly asserted himself as the new head of the Xia family. He initiated a division of assets, liquidating many belongings and dismissing servants, claiming the family could no longer afford to support idle hands.
He specifically targeted Xia Liuqing, accusing her of siding with Xia Yubing against the family. Fed up with the chaos, Xia Liuqing announced her departure, having already packed her belongings. She moved into a small, dilapidated storage room. Xia Yubing and Ye Wenzhao visited her, and Xia Yubing, concerned by her sister’s living conditions, offered her a private room at Yanyan Building or a guest room at Xu Manor.
However, Xia Liuqing firmly declined, expressing a preference for simplicity and asserting her capability to manage on her own. Later, still visibly distressed, Xia Liuqing made a solitary visit to her father’s tomb. There, she bid him a final farewell, acknowledging their distant relationship but cherishing their familial bond, and declared that she was now severing all ties with the Xia family. Upon returning to her humble room, Xia Liuqing discovered that Ye Wenzhao had thoughtfully and tastefully decorated it.
Xia Yubing arrived and praised Ye Wenzhao’s efforts, though she lightheartedly remarked that he might not fully understand Xia Liuqing's more practical preferences. Ye Wenzhao modestly offered to make any further adjustments, while Xia Yubing playfully teased her sister about her newfound appreciation for flowers. Meanwhile, Xia Shi, Xia Yubing’s father, was found by Xu Ziyan being chased by creditors for unpaid debts, having been expelled from the Xia family by Xia Yaozu.
Recognizing him as Xia Yubing's father, Xu Ziyan paid his debts and brought him to live at Xu Manor to prevent further trouble. Upon his arrival, Xia Yubing immediately laid down three strict conditions for his stay: maintaining cleanliness, refraining from bullying servants, and practicing self-reliance. Xia Shi vehemently protested, feeling these rules undermined his authority, which sparked a heated argument with Xia Yubing. Xu Guangling, Xu Ziyan’s father, intervened to calm the situation.
During dinner, Xia Shi ate ravenously, but his behavior quickly deteriorated when he criticized Xu Ziyan for serving Xia Yubing and asserted that women should not be allowed at the dining table. Offended, Xia Yubing angrily left the table, followed closely by Xu Ziyan. In their room, Xia Yubing, still fuming, repeatedly wrote the characters for "Don't be mad." Xu Ziyan entered, gently took the paper from her, and reassured her not to let her father’s outdated views affect her.
He lovingly promised that she no longer needed to adapt to others, as he would adapt to her. Later, Xia Shi, feeling disrespected and powerless at Xu Manor, tried to lecture Xu Ziyan about traditional etiquette, emphasizing that women should be obedient to their fathers and then husbands, and that Xu Ziyan needed to "keep Xia Yubing in control." Xu Ziyan, however, firmly asserted that he and Xia Yubing were equals and neither should be obedient to the other.
Xia Shi’s frustration deepened when he received an invitation to dinner from Xue Mu. During their meal, Xia Shi vented his grievances about Xia Yubing's disrespect and Xu Ziyan’s perceived weakness. Seizing the opportunity, Xue Mu revealed a fabricated "secret": Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan's marriage was merely a contract, forcibly arranged by Xu Ziyan for the snack shop, and they were not truly in love. He cunningly suggested that Xia Yubing could easily seek a divorce from the authorities.
Xia Shi, initially contemplating a match with Ye Wenzhao for his daughter, was subtly guided by Xue Mu, who implied that after a divorce, Xia Yubing would be free to marry anyone. Xue Mu then opportunistically reminded Xia Shi of his own long-standing engagement with Xia Yubing from their youth, expressing his unwavering "sincerity" and how he dedicated himself to his career only after her marriage to Xu Ziyan.
This manipulation led Xia Shi to believe that Xue Mu, now a powerful Administrator, would be a more suitable husband for his daughter than Xu Ziyan. The following day, Xia Shi, with ulterior motives, attempted to cook steamed eggs, Xia Yubing’s childhood favorite, for her. Xia Yubing, suspicious of his sudden kindness, questioned his intentions.
Xia Shi then broached the subject of her childhood engagement to Xue Mu, extolling Xue Mu’s rapid rise to Administrator and his promising future, while disparaging Xu Ziyan as someone who "knows no rules" and has "no future." He urged Xia Yubing to foster a closer relationship with Xue Mu, subtly implying mutual benefit. Xia Yubing, appalled by his blatant attempt to marry her off, pushed her plate away and firmly declared her unwavering commitment to Xu Ziyan.
She warned her father that if he continued to meddle in her marriage and attempt to arrange such an inappropriate match, she would sever all ties with him, and then abruptly left.
Episode 11 Recap
Xue Mu brought Xia Yubing her favorite Cantonese-style roast duck, affectionately wiping food from her mouth as he noted her lifelong carelessness. Xia Yubing playfully acknowledged him as her "best cousin" but then addressed their childhood engagement. She dismissed it as a meaningless "adult's joke," emphasizing their relationship was purely like "brother and sister" and not to complicate his future marriage. Xue Mu accepted this.
He then revealed his true purpose, returning the Xia family's land deeds that he had recovered during an audit. Overjoyed, Xia Yubing embraced him tightly, profusely thanking him. This warm exchange was witnessed by Xu Ziyan, who observed with discomfort. Later, Xue Mu visited the Xia Manor, attempting to offer the family a job at the Office of Administration.
However, Xia Yaozu, now in charge, was deeply suspicious, rejecting the offer as a ploy by Xue Mu to use them against the Ye Family. Xia Lan, frustrated by her brother's arrogance, defended Xue Mu. She then began sorting through her belongings, planning to sell her jewelry. She showed Xue Mu a unique jade pendant, explaining that a "beggar boy" had given it to her years ago to pass to Xia Liuqing, who had once offered him butter biscuits.
Xue Mu took the pendant, and upon checking, recognized its significance as it matched a pattern on a seal/stamp. Meanwhile, a bond had been quietly forming between Ye Wenzhao and Xia Liuqing. During a walk, Ye Wenzhao instinctively protected Liuqing from a passing carriage and later demonstrated his attentive care by picking out foods she disliked, stating he only remembered her preferences. Liuqing found herself smiling, replaying his words, a clear sign of her growing affection.
Xia Yubing noticed her sister's changed demeanor and delivered a letter from Ye Wenzhao, inviting Liuqing to enjoy the moon at Yanyan Building. Though Liuqing feigned disinterest, Xia Yubing playfully teased her, confirming her sister's excitement. The next day, Liuqing attempted to transform her appearance for the date, donning a "lady-like" dress but applying an excessive amount of makeup, which Xia Yubing quickly helped her fix before she rushed off.
Unbeknownst to Liuqing, Xue Mu had learned that Ye Wenzhao's long-held affection for her stemmed from a childhood encounter he believed he had with her. Knowing this, Xue Mu had instructed Xia Lan to impersonate the girl using the jade pendant. Xia Lan, despite initial reluctance, agreed, motivated by her desire for revenge for her father and to defeat Xu Ziyan.
At Yanyan Building, Xia Lan approached Ye Wenzhao, presenting him with butter biscuits and the jade pendant, claiming to be the girl from his past. As a surprised Ye Wenzhao was still processing the revelation, Xia Lan embraced him, calling him her "beggar boy" and expressing that she had finally found him. At that very moment, Xia Liuqing arrived, her heart sinking as she witnessed Ye Wenzhao in Xia Lan's arms. In the aftermath, Xia Liuqing's behavior grew distant.
Xia Yubing observed her sister's strange actions, including discarding fresh flowers from Ye Wenzhao, before finding Liuqing's room empty, with only a note stating, "I left. Don't worry." Shortly after, Xia Lan and Ye Wenzhao appeared at the snack shop, where Xia Lan publicly announced their engagement and upcoming marriage, inviting everyone present. Xu Ziyan angrily confronted Ye Wenzhao, reminding him of Xia Lan's past deceptions and questioning his loyalty to Liuqing.
Though Ye Wenzhao seemed unable to explain himself, Xia Yubing firmly told him that given his engagement to Xia Lan, he should no longer approach her sister and was unwelcome at their shop. Xia Lan and Ye Wenzhao then left. Later, Xu Ziyan spoke with Ye Wenzhao, who recounted his childhood encounter with a bullied girl to whom he gave his jade pendant after she offered him butter biscuits.
He firmly believed Xia Lan was this girl and felt destined to marry her, convinced he could guide her, just as he believed Xia Yubing had positively influenced Xu Ziyan after their marriage. Xu Ziyan shared this dramatic story with Xia Yubing, confirming Ye Wenzhao’s long-standing misconception.
Despite her initial concern for Liuqing's vulnerability, Xia Yubing, upon receiving a second cryptic note from Liuqing stating she had "Met a boar" and it "tasted good," decided it was best to let her sister process things alone. Turning their attention to business, Xia Yubing devised a plan to create a unique trademark for Xu's Snack Shop, hoping to differentiate their products and prevent counterfeiting, recalling Xia Lan's past sale of fake creams.
Xu Ziyan volunteered to carve the intricate logo, cutting his hands in the process, while Xia Yubing provided detailed design feedback. They presented their idea to Xue Mu, who praised Xia Yubing’s business genius and assured them the trademark would be approved by the Chancellors of Treasury within three days. However, upon arriving to collect the trademark documents, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan found Xia Lan, who brazenly claimed the design as her own.
Ye Wenzhao corroborated her story, stating he had personally witnessed Xia Lan working on the designs. Despite Xu Ziyan’s offer to carve a new logo on the spot to prove his authorship, the official declared the trademark already registered to Xia Lan, making any contest futile.
Distraught by this setback and the lack of funds to purchase goods, Xia Yubing was consoled by Xu Ziyan, who offered his personal savings from his apothecary, explaining his system of collecting deposits from patients to ensure their commitment to treatment. Inspired by this "deposit" strategy, Xia Yubing quickly formulated a new sales plan: a "buy two, get one free" promotion that required customers to pay a deposit upfront.
This clever scheme, tapping into people's desire for a bargain, proved hugely successful, attracting a large crowd who eagerly lined up to pay their deposits, rapidly generating significant income for the shop. Unbeknownst to them, Xia Lan had already hired a group of bandits, the "Three Golden Robbers," to intercept and destroy Xia Yubing's pre-ordered goods.
The bandits, initially swayed by Xia Yubing's enticing "deposit" promotion and contemplating using it to scam the shop themselves, were ultimately redirected by their female accomplice to carry out the original robbery. Soon after, news arrived that all of Xu's Snack Shop's goods had indeed been stolen by bandits.
Episode 12 Recap
After Xia Yubing initiated a pre-sale strategy for Xu's Snack Shop, Xia Lan, unwilling to let Xia Yubing profit, arranged for bandits to rob the pre-sale goods. A servant reported the robbery to Xia Yubing, who became distraught, realizing their reputation would be ruined, and her store was in jeopardy. Xu Ziyan, determined to help, sought assistance from Ye Wenzhao's father, Uncle Ye.
Uncle Ye, acknowledging Xu Ziyan's straightforward nature, agreed to lend money, but only provided half the amount, explaining he needed time to gather the rest for his own business circulation. As Xu Ziyan left, Ye Wenzhao intercepted him, revealing that he had actually advised his father to give the full amount, but Uncle Ye cited financial difficulties.
Uncle Ye later privately instructed a servant to retrieve his account book, admitting his admiration for Xia Yubing's business acumen, which was his true motivation for helping. Ye Wenzhao also explained to Xu Ziyan that while he had initially seemed to side with Xia Lan regarding the trademark, he now felt "something was off" and would investigate the matter thoroughly, advising them to let go of the trademark for now. Meanwhile, Xia Lan continued her manipulation.
Remembering Ye Wenzhao's childhood sentiment for the "butter biscuit girl" (Xia Liuqing), Xia Lan had previously used a trick to get Ye Wenzhao to give her the trademark draft. In the current crisis, she brought special non-sweet butter biscuits to Uncle Ye, mentioning Ye Wenzhao had told her about his dietary restrictions. During their conversation, a servant mentioned bringing money to Xu's store, which Uncle Ye postponed.
Xia Lan seized the opportunity to spread rumors, maliciously telling Uncle Ye that Xia Yubing was borrowing money from everywhere, "robbing Peter to pay Paul," and anyone who lent her money would be dragged into debt. Xu Ziyan returned to Xia Yubing with the first half of the money from Uncle Ye. Xia Yubing, overwhelmed, jokingly questioned if he had "sold himself" for the money, but was relieved when he clarified that Uncle Ye had lent it.
Though it was only half, Xu Ziyan assured her the rest would come. Xia Yubing thanked him for his reliability during the crisis. He gently touched her face, making her blush, and she closed her eyes, but he unexpectedly fell asleep on her shoulder. Later, Xia Lan again manipulated Ye Wenzhao, acting vulnerable and upset that she wasn't Xia Liuqing.
After she tearfully stated that she knew he didn't trust her entirely about the trademark since she was a "repeat offender," Ye Wenzhao apologized, assuring her he wouldn't leave and thanked her for trusting him. He then accompanied her to the South Flower Fair. When Xu Ziyan went to retrieve the second half of the loan, he was told by Uncle Ye's servant that Uncle Ye no longer had spare cash and couldn't help.
Realizing Xia Lan's interference, Xu Ziyan confronted her. Xia Lan admitted to misleading Uncle Ye and maliciously accused Xu Ziyan of killing her father, demanding he kneel, which he refused. Knowing Uncle Ye would not lend them the rest of the money, Xia Yubing prepared to close down the snack shop, taking down signs and holding a clearance sale to salvage what she could.
A servant reported that Xu Ziyan, touched by Xia Yubing's plight, had worked all night preparing many tea bags and fairness cream to help the store last a little longer. Touched by his efforts, Xia Yubing later bought back a chair she had sold during the clearance, claiming she was "buying her dignity." Despite Xia Yubing's efforts, more trouble arose. Xu Ziyan, trying to gather ingredients, mistakenly harvested tea from local farmers, believing it was wild tea.
The angry farmers confronted Xu's Snack Shop, demanding compensation. Just as Xia Yubing despaired, Zhao Linglong arrived and settled the dispute by paying the farmers. Zhao Linglong then went to Xu Ziyan at Xu Apothecary, where she openly flirted with him and tried to sow discord between him and Xia Yubing, suggesting Xia Yubing only cared about her store, while he cared for her. Xu Ziyan firmly stated that Xia Yubing was his wife and he naturally cared for her.
Zhao Linglong, who had previously shown interest in investing in Xia Yubing's business, then subtly threatened to buy Xu's Snack Shop if Xu Ziyan didn't "treat her mental illness." Zhao Linglong later met with Xia Yubing and reassured her that there was no rush to repay the money. Xia Yubing considered Zhao Linglong's help a stroke of luck and firmly told Xu Ziyan not to act alone in the future and to discuss problems with her first.
Elsewhere, Xia Liuqing, who had been traveling and was known for her terrible sense of direction, stumbled upon the bandits who robbed Xia Yubing's goods. With her martial arts skills, she easily subdued them. She also encountered a man named Xiao Jiang, injured while trying to report the bandits. As she tended to his wound, she recognized a scar, confirming he was the "little beggar" who had saved her as a child, whom she had given homemade butter biscuits.
Xia Liuqing, Xiao Jiang, the captured bandits, and the recovered goods returned to Yanxia. Xia Yubing was overjoyed to see her sister and the retrieved goods. The bandits confessed that a lady who looked like Xia Liuqing had hired them. Both Xia Yubing and Xia Liuqing quickly realized the culprit was Xia Lan. They confronted Xia Lan, who vehemently denied involvement, feigning innocence and claiming she couldn't even "strangle a chicken."
When presented with the bandits, who identified her, Xia Lan still refused to admit guilt. Drawing on legal advice from Xue Mu, she boldly challenged them to provide concrete evidence beyond the bandits' testimony, threatening to accuse them of false accusation and warning of severe legal repercussions for public brawling, such as flogging or exile. Xia Lan later reported to Xue Mu that her strategy had successfully scared off Xia Yubing.
Xue Mu advised her to be thorough and revealed he had bribed the warders, ensuring that no one would believe the bandits' testimony in court. Meanwhile, Ye Wenzhao, learning of Xia Liuqing's return, found a sign on Xu Apothecary's door stating, "Ye Wenzhao and dogs are not allowed in," which he realized was in Liuqing's handwriting. He confronted her, expressing concern for her well-being.
However, Xia Liuqing, still hurt and accompanied by Xiao Jiang, angrily dismissed him, telling him to focus on Xia Lan and that her own struggles were none of his concern. Xia Yubing intervened, but Xia Liuqing interrupted her, emphatically stating that Ye Wenzhao and Xia Lan had nothing to do with her. Ye Wenzhao, disheartened, eventually left. Days later, Xia Yubing noticed an increase in customers whispering and looking at her.
A servant then delivered a newspaper titled "Yanxia News: An Affair," which featured a drawing of Xu Ziyan and Zhao Linglong, indicating a public scandal. The servant, attempting to be vague, confirmed Xu Ziyan was with a patient, further fueling Xia Yubing's suspicions.
Episode 13 Recap
Xia Yubing saw a tabloid newspaper, "Yanxia News: An Affair," detailing Xu Ziyan's interactions with Zhao Linglong over three days and felt betrayed. She went to Zhao Linglong's residence and witnessed Zhao Linglong feigning illness and asking Xu Ziyan for a head massage. Enraged, Xia Yubing threw money at Zhao Linglong, demanding she stay away from Xu Ziyan.
Zhao Linglong retorted that Xia Yubing was hindering Xu Ziyan's aspirations to become a great doctor, claiming only she could help him achieve his ambitions, leaving Xia Yubing speechless. Upon returning home, Xu Ziyan learned that Xia Yubing had not eaten dinner and realized she knew about the rumors. He brought food to her room, where she questioned if she was holding him back. Xu Ziyan jokingly agreed, then kissed her and reassured her.
He admitted he knew she had been watching him and Zhao Linglong earlier. The next morning, Xu Ziyan offered Zhao Linglong his house deed as repayment for her previous financial assistance and to sever their connection. Zhao Linglong expressed surprise but accepted his decision, returning the deed and saying he now owed her a favor.
After Xu Ziyan left, Xue Mu emerged, pleased that Zhao Linglong seemed to be genuinely falling for Xu Ziyan, furthering his plan to sow discord between Xu Ziyan and Xia Yubing. Meanwhile, Xia Yubing returned to her shop to find it ransacked. Tabloids accused Xia Yubing of instructing Xu Ziyan to poison her uncle, Xia Deshui. Xia Yubing sought information from Gu Gu, a local proprietor, hoping to clear their names.
She got some of his storybooks and discovered a drawing book from her "past life" that provided a clue. She then interviewed former servants of the Xia family, who recalled hearing an argument in Xia Deshui's room before he was found dead. Despite spending a lot of money, Xia Yubing didn't find any concrete evidence.
Concurrently, Xue Mu met with Xia Shi, Xia Yubing's father, and exaggerated the rumors about Xu Ziyan being Xia Deshui's murderer and the attacks on Xia Yubing's shop, leading Xia Shi to fear that his family could be in danger. Xia Shi resolved to make Xia Yubing break up with Xu Ziyan. Back home, Xia Yubing confronted Xu Ziyan about the servants' account of an argument.
Xu Ziyan admitted to a dispute with Xia Deshui but denied any involvement in his death. He explained that Xia Deshui's death didn't seem like a typical heart attack and that his medicine was within reach. He suspected that someone else argued with Xia Deshui after he left, preventing him from taking his medication and watching him die. He mentioned seeing a fleeting shadow but couldn't identify the person.
Xia Yubing assured him of her belief in his innocence but worried about how he would prove it. Later, Xia Shi demanded that Xia Yubing break ties with Xu Ziyan immediately to protect herself from the murder rumors. Xia Yubing refused, accusing her father of prioritizing his own interests. Their argument caused Xia Yubing to collapse.
Xu Ziyan rushed to her side, noting her unstable pulse due to emotional distress, and carried her back to her room, warning Xia Shi not to upset her again. While Xu Ziyan cared for her, Xia Yubing grabbed his sleeve, begging him not to leave. He found a drawing book hidden under her pillow, depicting him threatening and killing her. He experienced a nightmare where he murdered Xia Yubing.
He went to Gu Gu, who claimed to be an "NPC" capable of predicting the future. Xu Ziyan, realizing Gu Gu had unusual knowledge of the past, pressed him to reveal if Xia Yubing knew that he was destined to kill her. Under threat of Xu Ziyan's sword, Gu Gu confirmed that she did, calling it "fate" and saying her life depended on him, implying that their staying together would lead to her death.
After Xia Yubing awoke from another nightmare, Xu Ziyan was there to comfort her. Xu Ziyan, struggling to hold back his emotions, presented her with a divorce letter, saying they should end their marriage. Xia Yubing demanded an explanation, reminding him of his past declarations of love. Xu Ziyan cruelly claimed that he no longer loved her, that their marriage was merely a business arrangement, and that he now had feelings for Zhao Linglong.
Heartbroken, Xia Yubing declared that she was divorcing him and threw her hairpin down before running out into the rain. Xu Ziyan's father urged him to follow, but Xue Mu appeared in a carriage and took Xia Yubing away before Xu Ziyan could reach her. Back home, Xu Ziyan instructed a servant to tell his father that he and Xia Yubing were divorced and that she wouldn't be returning.
Episode 14 Recap
Xue Mu welcomed Xia Yubing into his home after learning from a servant that Xu Ziyan had "kicked her out." He assured her that he would bring her father, Xia Yaozu, to join them. Xia Liuqing was shocked to learn about the divorce. When Xu Ziyan arrived at the shop to deliver Xia Yubing's belongings, Xia Liuqing confronted him, questioning why he would divorce Xia Yubing if he liked her. Xu Ziyan didn't reveal his true feelings.
Xia Yubing then requested Xu Ziyan to write a formal deed transferring ownership of the shop to her. Xu Ziyan complied, and subsequently moved out. Learning that Xia Yubing was staying with Xue Mu, Xu Ziyan was troubled. Later, Ye Wenzhao visited the shop, where Xia Liuqing and Xiao Jiang were present. Xia Liuqing, frustrated, entrusted the management of the shop to Xiao Jiang, as she admitted she was no good at managing the business.
At Xue Mu's home, Xia Yubing refused to eat the food prepared for her. Her father, Xia Yaozu, criticized her for defending Xu Ziyan. He even suggested that Xue Mu should marry her, implying that she, as a divorced woman, was now like "used goods." Enraged by her father's words, Xia Yubing stormed out, and Xue Mu followed her. Xia Yubing went to her childhood swing, only to find it broken.
Xue Mu comforted her by recalling a story from their childhood. He then produced a peach blossom she had given him for good luck when he went to the capital for his imperial exams, mentioning their childhood engagement. Xia Yubing clarified that she only saw him as a brother. Xue Mu feigned nonchalance. Determined to be self-sufficient, Xia Yubing developed a "Gold Yuan Financing" business plan and energetically promoted it on the streets. However, she collapsed from exhaustion.
She awoke in a bed and discovered Xu Ziyan's distinctive sachet, realizing he had been the one to rescue her. Xu's father, wanting to help reconcile them, arranged for Ye Wenzhao to bring Xu Ziyan and Xia Yubing to the Yanyan Building, hoping they could explain themselves. Xia Yubing confronted Xu Ziyan, asking if he had saved her. He denied it, but she noticed his nervous expression.
She presented the unique way the herb bag was folded and the fresh herbs as evidence. Zhao Linglong then appeared, claiming Xu Ziyan had been at her house the entire day. She then insisted Xu Ziyan return to her manor to perform acupuncture. Wanting Xia Yubing to give up on him, Xu Ziyan remained silent and left with Zhao Linglong, leaving Xia Yubing heartbroken. On the carriage ride back, Xu Ziyan questioned Zhao Linglong about her sudden appearance.
She admitted she seized the opportunity. Zhao Linglong openly flirted with him, inviting him to her manor. Xu Ziyan declined. After dropping Xu Ziyan off, Zhao Linglong went to Xue Mu's manor and demanded he stop tormenting Xu Ziyan, revealing her knowledge of his involvement in spreading rumors about Xu Ziyan killing Xia Deshui, and presented him with a confession and evidence of money he used to bribe a tabloid.
Faced with her resolve, Xue Mu outwardly agreed to back off. Meanwhile, Xia Yaozu continued gambling, losing everything. The next day, Xue Mu went to Zhao Manor and learned that Zhao Linglong had died from poison. He accused Xu Ziyan of the murder, presenting herbs containing highly toxic tripterygium wilfordii, supposedly found in both Zhao Linglong's body and Xu Ziyan's medical kit.
Xu Ziyan asserted his innocence, but Xue Mu linked Zhao Linglong's death to Xia Deshui's, claiming the same poison was found in Deshui's body. Xu Ziyan denounced these accusations, and Xue Mu ordered him to be flogged and imprisoned. Later, in jail, Xue Mu attempted to coerce a confession from Xu Ziyan, but Xu Ziyan refused and provoked Xue Mu, who then had him thrown into a dungeon.
Upon hearing the news, Xia Yubing refused to believe Xu Ziyan was a murderer and vowed to clear his name. In his cell, Xu Ziyan realized he was framed and the poison was planted in his medical kit. Before investigating, Xia Yubing entrusted the management of her shop and the "Gold Yuan Financing" business to Xia Liuqing, who quickly passed the responsibility to Xiao Jiang. Disguised, Xia Yubing and Ye Wenzhao bribed a guard to examine Zhao Linglong's body.
Ye Wenzhao noticed blood under her fingernails. Xia Yubing determined it wasn't Zhao Linglong's blood and that there was solidified human skin beneath the nails, indicating a struggle. They deduced the murderer must have scratches and that if Xu Ziyan had none, it would help prove his innocence. They also needed a witness from Zhao Manor.
Episode 15 Recap
Xia Yubing and Ye Wenzhao arrived at Zhao Linglong's manor to investigate her murder. A servant informed them that only Xu Ziyan had visited Miss Zhao, and he appeared to have been drinking. The servant even found an alcohol bottle near the garden. Xia Yubing recognized the specific "Spring Wine" bottle and noted that Xu Ziyan never drinks, concluding that someone must have framed him.
Following this discovery, Xia Yubing and Ye Wenzhao attempted to present their findings at the Office of Administration. Xia Yubing explained that Miss Zhao's death was suspicious and Xu Ziyan was innocent, stating they had evidence of the murderer's blood under Miss Zhao's nails from a struggle, and urged for an autopsy. However, the official refused, claiming Miss Zhao had already been buried, and had them forcibly removed for disturbing the court.
Xia Yubing was surprised, mentioning the body was at the funeral home just hours prior. Realizing they couldn't rely on the authorities, they resolved to investigate on their own and decided to visit the restaurant that sold the wine. They proceeded to the Ruyan Tavern, the sole vendor of Spring Wine.
To identify the killer, who they suspected had scratches from Miss Zhao, Ye Wenzhao announced he would pay for all the patrons to take a bath, hoping to spot the wounds. Despite their efforts, they found no one with the tell-tale scratches. However, a man at the tavern overheard Xia Yubing's conversation. He recounted seeing a flustered man with fresh, bleeding scratches on his arm who had ordered Spring Wine.
This man, from the Xia family, was known for having gambled away their family mansion only to mysteriously buy it back later. Xia Yubing instantly recognized this description, concluding the suspect was her cousin, Xia Yaozu. Soon after, Xia Yaozu himself arrived, enticed by the offer of a free bath, and was promptly confronted and taken away by Xia Yubing. Xia Yubing, Xia Liuqing, and Ye Wenzhao interrogated Xia Yaozu, who was bound.
Xia Liuqing presented various instruments of torture, but Xia Yaozu vehemently denied killing Miss Zhao or using any poison, though he did not deny having the scratches. Xia Yubing insisted his confession would be their evidence. To extract information, they resorted to tickling his feet. Just as Xia Yaozu was about to confess, Xia Lan arrived, angrily halting their interrogation. She criticized them for using torture, even tickling, and ordered them to release him.
Xia Lan then took Xia Yaozu away, while Xia Yubing and Ye Wenzhao decided to gather more substantial evidence before approaching the authorities again. Xia Lan revealed that Xue Mu had informed her of Xia Yaozu's whereabouts, which made Xia Yaozu suspicious that Xue Mu had been spying on him. Xia Lan then dismissed Xia Yubing's accusations against her brother. Later that night, Xia Yaozu was tormented by a nightmare of Zhao Linglong's ghost seeking revenge.
He woke up in terror and immediately burned paper offerings, begging for forgiveness and blaming Xue Mu for putting him in that situation. A flashback revealed the true extent of Xue Mu's manipulation. After Xia Yaozu had gambled away the family mansion, Xue Mu offered to help him reclaim it if he would perform a task. Xue Mu presented him with a highly toxic "tripterygium wilfordii" and instructed him to put a single drop into Zhao Linglong's food.
Xia Yaozu was hesitant to commit murder, but Xue Mu coerced him by threatening to harm Xia Lan and expose his gambling history, leaving Xia Yaozu no option but to comply. Drunk and terrified, Xia Yaozu later entered Zhao Linglong's room. She discovered him, and a struggle ensued. In a moment of panic, he pushed her, causing her head to hit a chair, which killed her instantly.
In his haste to escape, he accidentally dropped the poison bottle at the scene. It was then revealed that Jiang, whom Xia Liuqing trusted with the snack shop, was actually Xue Mu's informant. Jiang confirmed he had gathered the investors' money and that the Chancellor of Treasury would soon investigate, causing street rumors to spread. During their conversation, Jiang questioned Xue Mu's actions against Xia Yubing's group, noting their apparent kindness.
Xue Mu then confessed that Xia Yaozu's attempt to kill Zhao Linglong was unsuccessful. He admitted to following Xia Yaozu and poisoning Miss Zhao himself to ensure her death. He also revealed that the initial framing of Xu Ziyan had been orchestrated by him and executed by Jiang. Xue Mu further divulged that Zhao Linglong was not the first person he had killed. He confessed to also being responsible for the death of Xia Deshui, Xia Lan's father.
A flashback illustrated Xue Mu confronting Xia Deshui, accusing him of widespread corruption including accounting falsification and forging evidence. Despite Xia Deshui's pleas, reminding Xue Mu of the Xia family's generosity in raising him, Xue Mu revealed his deep-seated bitterness, claiming his parents died as scapegoats for the Xia family and that his own upbringing was merely to serve them. He also expressed anger over Xia Yubing, his intended fiancée, being married to someone else.
Xue Mu intentionally provoked Xia Deshui until he suffered a heart attack, then cruelly withheld his medicine, allowing him to die. Xue Mu reflected on his past, lamenting that despite his sincere efforts, he was always despised and never truly accepted as a part of the Xia family. He expressed gratitude for what he perceived as fate intervening on his behalf. Unbeknownst to Xue Mu and Jiang, Xia Yaozu had overheard their entire conversation.
As he tried to stealthily leave, he bumped into a servant, dropping his waist token, which Jiang later found and recognized. The following morning, Xia Lan became worried when Xia Yaozu didn't return home, fearing Xia Yubing had taken him again. She sought Xue Mu's help, but he remained cold and indifferent, assuring her that Xia Yubing was too busy to concern herself with her brother.
Simultaneously, a large, angry crowd gathered outside Xu's Snack Store, demanding their money back and accusing Xia Yubing and the associated Ye and Xu families of a massive gold yuan financing fraud. Xia Yubing was utterly bewildered, denying any wrongdoing. Witnessing the unfolding disaster, Ye Wenzhao's father, despite his own family's assets being sealed, ordered his steward to use all available funds to compensate the investors, prioritizing their life savings.
Soon after, soldiers arrived and arrested Xia Yubing on charges of fraud. Xia Liuqing rushed to Ye Wenzhao's house and, despite catching him still groggy from sleep, informed him of Xia Yubing's arrest. Ye Wenzhao, without hesitation, gave Xia Liuqing all the money he had to help with the situation. Later, Xia Yubing was released, a result of Xue Mu's intervention. Back at the snack shop, she confronted Jiang about the missing investors' money.
Jiang insisted he had left the money in the store and had no idea how it vanished. Xia Liuqing staunchly defended Jiang, believing in his innocence. Xia Yubing, however, remained suspicious, expressing regret over trusting Xia Liuqing with the store and accusing her of trusting Jiang too much. This led to a heated argument between the cousins, with Xia Yubing threatening to dismiss Jiang and Xia Liuqing vehemently opposing the idea.
Episode 16 Recap
Xia Yubing remained convinced that Jiang was suspicious, but Xia Liuqing continued to believe he was the young beggar she had met in her childhood. Their differing opinions caused friction between the sisters. Meanwhile, Ye Wenzhao approached Xia Liuqing, offering her money, and openly expressed his disapproval of Jiang’s attention towards her. He then revealed to Xia Yubing that he had seen Jiang stealthily climbing over the wall of the Xu residence the night before Xu Ziyan's arrest.
While Ye Wenzhao lacked concrete proof, he was confident that Jiang would eventually expose himself, noting that his people had been observing Jiang and noticed he often stayed out all night, suggesting he had another secret dwelling. That night, Xia Yubing, intending to follow Jiang, was ambushed and knocked unconscious shortly after leaving. It was later revealed that Xue Mu and Jiang had anticipated her move.
Xue Mu warned Jiang that Xia Yubing was already suspicious of him and urged him to be cautious. Xue Mu then visited Xu Ziyan in prison, stating he was there to "see him off." Xu Ziyan quickly deduced that Xue Mu was behind everything, including the deaths of Miss Zhao and Xia Deshui. Xue Mu did not deny it, calmly explaining his simple objective: for Xu Ziyan to plead guilty to all charges.
He informed Xu Ziyan that Xia Yubing’s store had been sealed due to his arrest, and by confessing, Xu Ziyan could enable Xia Yubing to achieve her desires. Xia Yubing awoke to find Xia Liuqing tending to her. She explained that she had been knocked out by Jiang. Xia Liuqing, enraged, wanted to pursue Jiang, but Xia Yubing stopped her, convinced that Jiang had already fled.
Xia Yubing expressed remorse for her carelessness in not vetting Jiang’s background, regretting the trouble it had caused. Later, Xu Ziyan’s father, Xu Guangling, visited his son in prison, accompanied by Xia Yubing. Seeing Xu Ziyan's deteriorated state, Xia Yubing felt a pang of sorrow. However, Xu Ziyan, hardened and seemingly indifferent, stated he did not wish to see her.
Xia Yubing attempted to evoke his sympathy by feigning illness and dizziness, but Xu Ziyan remained cold, telling her to seek a doctor instead of wasting time pretending. Despite his harsh words, Xia Yubing declared she would never divorce him. Xu Ziyan, observing Xue Mu nearby, tore a piece of his clothing and, using his own blood, hastily wrote a document, which he presented as a divorce agreement. He deliberately acted coldly, fearing Xue Mu's presence.
Xia Yubing showed the cryptic blood-written document to Xia Liuqing. The next day, the official seals on Xia Yubing's store were surprisingly removed. Before she could celebrate, however, devastating news arrived: Xu Ziyan had confessed to all crimes. Distraught, Xu Ziyan demanded to see Xue Mu again.
He pleaded with Xue Mu to take care of Xia Yubing after his death, imploring him to remember all her needs and quirks, from her dislike of jujube water and her tendency to eat cold food during her period to her independent spirit and her "incurable disease" that required timely medication from a case located in the Xu residence. Xue Mu dismissed his advice, reminding Xu Ziyan they grew up together.
He refused to collect Xia Yubing’s medicine, declaring her health was not his concern. He argued that he would provide Xia Yubing with a life of comfort as the Chief Administrator’s wife, whether she desired it or not, claiming it was superior to any life with Xu Ziyan. Desperate, Xu Ziyan knelt before Xue Mu, begging him to ensure Xia Yubing lived a long life. Xia Yubing, pondering the "divorce letter," found it baffling and illegible.
Fortunately, Xu Ziyan’s attendant recognized his master’s unique speed writing. He deciphered the message: "If it's post-death poisoning, the poison can't go deep down into the corpse. It will stay in the throat." Xu Ziyan's true intention was for Xia Yubing to perform an autopsy. That night, Xia Yubing and Xia Liuqing ventured to Xia Deshui's grave. Despite Xia Liuqing's initial apprehension about disturbing the dead, they dug up the coffin.
As instructed by Xu Ziyan's message, they found Xia Deshui's throat discolored and black, confirming he had been poisoned after his death. The following morning, Xia Yubing dramatically arrived at the government office, presenting Xia Deshui’s coffin as evidence to clear Xu Ziyan’s name. She passionately explained that the black throat and teeth, with no abdominal abnormalities, proved post-death poisoning, suggesting it matched Miss Zhao’s case.
However, the official, irritated by her unusual method, dismissed her claims, angrily stating that Xu Ziyan had already confessed and was scheduled for execution that very day. Xia Liuqing, incensed by the injustice, nearly confronted the official, but Xia Yubing restrained her, deciding they needed a new plan. Later, Xia Yubing sought Xue Mu’s help, informing him of the impending execution.
Xue Mu, feigning powerlessness, claimed the censorate had tied his hands, offering only empty comfort as he patted her shoulder. Meanwhile, Gu Gu appeared, reminding Xia Yubing that her hourglass of life was nearly empty and she needed to make money, but Xia Yubing prioritized saving Xu Ziyan. The night before his execution, Xu Ziyan, resigned to his fate, began to hallucinate Xia Yubing by his side.
At the execution ground, just as the executioner prepared to strike, Xia Yubing dramatically intervened, shouting for a halt. She declared Xu Ziyan innocent and threw herself onto him, vowing to die with him. Unexpectedly, Ye Wenzhao then joined them, lying on Xia Yubing and proclaiming his solidarity. Soon after, Xia Liuqing arrived from above, pushing Ye Wenzhao away and taking his place on Xia Yubing, instructing Ye Wenzhao to lie on her instead.
A-Guang also joined the growing pile of protestors. The outraged official ordered all those obstructing the execution to be beheaded. However, just as the executioner prepared his blade, Xu Guangling arrived with a higher-ranking Imperial Censor, who immediately ordered the case related to Xu Ziyan to be reopened for retrial.
Episode 17 Recap
The judge, with the Chief Censor and Xue Mu present, states that many doubts surround the case and a retrial is necessary to find justice, neither letting the guilty escape nor wronging the innocent. Xia Yubing argues that Miss Zhao's nails held the murderer's blood and skin, so if Xu Ziyan lacked scratches, he could not be the killer.
She further explains that Xia Deshui's autopsy showed a blackened throat and teeth but a normal abdomen, suggesting post-death poisoning to frame Xu Ziyan. Xue Mu, feigning support, praises Xu Ziyan as an excellent doctor and highlights that Xia Deshui was his wife's uncle, making the accusation unlikely. Xia Yubing then declares that Xia Yaozu is the true murderer and insists he be summoned to reveal the truth.
Xia Lan quickly interjects, trying to defend her brother, but eventually admits that Xia Yaozu is missing. Xia Yubing seizes on this, suggesting his disappearance indicates a guilty conscience and that he would have scratches on his body from Miss Zhao's struggle. Xia Lan attempts to dismiss the scratch evidence as insufficient proof. Ultimately, the judge rules that there is insufficient evidence to convict Xu Ziyan and, due to Xia Yaozu's disappearance, the case for Miss Zhao's murder is unsolved.
Xu Ziyan is acquitted and released. Xue Mu congratulates Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan on their success, promising to send people to search for Xia Yaozu before leaving. A guard expresses concern over Xu Ziyan's health. Xu Ziyan, upon his release, thanks the higher official, the Chief Censor, whom he calls "Brother," for his crucial help in saving him, despite a minor illness.
The Chief Censor dismisses it as a small matter, saying he doesn't need to visit the capital, but expects Xu Ziyan to host him when he next visits Yanxia City. Outside the court, Xia Yubing suddenly collapses from exhaustion. Fearing she is about to die, she tearfully makes Xu Ziyan promise to live a long and fulfilling life for both of them.
She gives him her "last wishes," requesting to be buried where she can witness the sunrise with "Xu Ziyan's wife" inscribed on her tombstone. She then confesses her deep love for him before losing consciousness. A heartbroken Xu Ziyan cries out his own love for her, blaming himself. Xia Yubing eventually awakens in her bed, surprised to find herself alive. Her maid, A'Guang, confirms she merely fainted from fatigue and mentions Xu Ziyan's profound grief.
Gu Gu then appears, explaining that Xia Yubing's selfless act of saving Xu Ziyan and her sacrifice for love profoundly moved the comic's readers, earning the highest number of likes ever. As a result, her life countdown has been reset, giving her another chance. Xia Yubing is overjoyed at this news. Xia Yubing soon realizes that Xu Ziyan is deliberately avoiding her.
Determined to find him, she waits outside Xu Manor for several days, eventually observing him secretly leaving the estate disguised as a tall servant girl. Amused by his disguise, she confronts him. Xu Ziyan explains his avoidance, showing her comic panels he received from "Young Master N" (Gu Gu), which predict that he will cause her death if they remain together, as he supposedly did in previous lives.
Xia Yubing reassures him that these predictions are false and that her life's restarts are related to the comic's mechanics, not his presence. She insists that they must stay together and not be separated. Overwhelmed, Xu Ziyan publicly declares his love for Xia Yubing and kisses her on the street, drawing applause from onlookers. Later, discussing the comic further, Xia Yubing clarifies that his presence will not harm her, dispelling his fears.
As Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan share a tender moment, Xu Ziyan's father appears, interrupting them. He expresses his displeasure over their initial contract marriage and their secrecy, feeling misled. Xia Yubing, quick to react, affectionately calls him "Dad" and promises to fulfill any wish if he blesses their genuine love now. After some playful banter, Xu Ziyan's father agrees to their marriage on the condition that they have three children within five years, a proposition Xu Ziyan enthusiastically embraces.
Later, Xia Yubing searches for Xu Ziyan, learning from a servant that he had gone to the House of Ye. After not seeing him all day, she stumbles upon scattered money, which her "greedy" nature compels her to pick up. This trail of money leads her to Xu Ziyan, who has built a swing for her, knowing it is her favorite.
They share a sweet moment on the swing, recognizing that their initial contract marriage has blossomed into genuine love and an enviable sweet life together. Xia Yubing shares her plan to expose the person behind Jiang. Xu Ziyan affectionately feeds her some bitter medicine mouth-to-mouth, prompting an awkward reaction from a nearby servant. Soon after, they capture Jiang and bring him in for interrogation.
Xu Ziyan attempts to intimidate Jiang by claiming he has given him "Three Days Ucupra Cacia Powder," a potent poison that would lead to a gruesome death within three days without an antidote. However, Jiang, unfazed, reveals he recognized the pills as ordinary ones from his time working in Xu Ziyan's store, implying he is familiar with Xu Ziyan's remedies. Jiang stubbornly insists he acted alone and that no one instructed him.
Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan accuse him of ingratitude, reminding him that she once saved his life. Jiang counters that he deliberately approached her and simply dislikes them. Faced with his defiance, Xu Ziyan resorts to more severe methods, deciding to deprive Jiang of food, water, and sleep. Meanwhile, Xue Mu learns of Jiang's capture and dispatches Xia Lan to visit him. Disguising herself as a slop collector, Xia Lan enters Jiang's cell with food sent by Xue Mu.
Jiang, after some hesitation, takes the food. He then asks Xia Lan for her handkerchief, claiming he needs to clean his face. Xia Lan gives it to him, and he secretly uses it to pass a message. He tells her to inform Xue Mu that he has not revealed anything and that Xue Mu need not worry.
Episode 18 Recap
Xu Ziyan rushed to the scene after hearing cries of "murder," only to find Jiang already poisoned and clutching Xia Lan's handkerchief. With his dying breath, Jiang put all the blame on Xia Lan before biting his tongue and committing suicide. Upon learning of Jiang's suicide, Xue Mu felt relieved, noting his loyalty meant no one would uncover his involvement. Meanwhile, Ye Wenzhao, realizing his true affections lay with Xia Liuqing, visited Xia Lan to end their relationship.
He thanked her for what he believed were her butter biscuits and offered generous compensation: a house in the suburbs or 30% of his estates' rent, promising his support if she ever needed it. Xia Lan, internally pleased, agreed to consider it. However, Xu Ziyan suddenly appeared and exposed Xia Lan as an impostor. He accused her of feigning to be Xia Liuqing to gain the Ye family's wealth, challenging her to recall the details of the supposed rescue.
Xia Lan faltered, unable to answer. Xu Ziyan further revealed that Xia Lan had secretly learned to make butter biscuits from Xia Liuqing and had kept Ye Wenzhao's jade pendant, which was meant for Xia Liuqing. A shocked Ye Wenzhao listened as Xu Ziyan confirmed that Jiang himself had confessed the truth before his death: it was Xia Liuqing who had saved Ye Wenzhao and made him the biscuits.
With her deception revealed, Xia Lan mumbled a threat and attempted to flee, but Xu Ziyan apprehended her, stating there was another matter to address. Xia Lan was brought before the authorities, charged with stealing Xu's Snack Store's logo, orchestrating robberies, deceiving investors, and illegally amassing wealth. She denied everything, claiming no knowledge of Jiang, but Xu Ziyan presented Jiang's confession, detailing Xia Lan's orders for the crimes.
He also produced evidence implicating Xia Lan in Jiang's poisoning, stating she was seen entering Xu Manor to silence him. Xia Lan vehemently denied poisoning Jiang and challenged the proof, but inadvertently revealed they had communicated face-to-face, not through letters, further incriminating herself. The official, recognizing her deception, ordered her arrest. However, Xue Mu intervened, downplaying the situation as a mere "economic dispute" and arguing against jailing her.
Xu Ziyan accused her of attempted murder, but Xue Mu countered that Jiang did not die from poisoning, thus negating the murder charge. The official agreed, ruling that Xia Lan only needed to provide equivalent compensation for economic disputes. Xue Mu then shockingly proposed confiscating the Xia family's estates as compensation, much to Xia Lan's dismay. Later, Xia Lan confronted Xue Mu, accusing him of killing Jiang, manipulating her, and exploiting her family.
Xue Mu feigned remorse, claiming ignorance of the full consequences, and then used a "bitter-trick" by swearing to retrieve the Xia family's estates, asserting his actions were tactical. Desperate and feeling alone, Xia Lan was swayed, and Xue Mu promised to protect her from any future danger. Ye Wenzhao, searching for Xia Liuqing, learned she was at the nursery. On his way, he was attacked by three robbers, whom he recognized as the same bandits from his childhood.
He cheekily thanked them, claiming their past actions had inadvertently set the stage for a romance, but they dismissed him and demanded money. As they prepared to search him, Xia Liuqing appeared, swiftly dispatching the bandits. Ye Wenzhao immediately embraced her, recalling how she had saved him as a child, bandaged his wound, and given him butter biscuits.
Xia Liuqing was surprised, realizing he was the "Beggar" boy she had helped, an incident that had inspired her to learn martial arts. Ye Wenzhao expressed regret for mistaking Xia Lan for her and vowed not to lose her again. Xia Liuqing confessed she had also been waiting for him. Ye Wenzhao took Xia Liuqing to celebrate with drinks.
As he attempted to get closer, a shy Xia Liuqing playfully punched him in the chest and made an excuse about the approaching dawn to return home. Back home, she shared the exciting news with Xia Yubing, admitting her past mistake of thinking Jiang was the beggar boy. Xia Yubing found the revelation dramatic, marveling at how they had both unknowingly waited for each other. Later, Xia Liuqing met Ye Wenzhao again and confessed her error regarding Jiang.
Ye Wenzhao affectionately pulled her into his arms, wishing the moment could last forever. With their store lost, Xia Yubing resolved to keep her business alive by selling butter biscuits and tea directly from a stall outside Xu Manor, believing her innocence would attract customers. Xu Ziyan offered to sell his family estates to help redeem the store, but Xia Yubing refused to let him sacrifice his family's assets. Despite their efforts, business remained slow.
One day, Xu Ziyan helped a page boy whose master was unable to get food delivered from Yanyan Building, which didn't offer takeaway services. This act sparked an idea in Xia Yubing: she would offer her own takeaway service. Xia Yubing launched an exclusive "takeaway" service from Xu Manor, allowing customers to place orders for home delivery. The service quickly became popular, but Xia Yubing found it impossible to manage all the deliveries alone, leading to delays and cold food.
She proposed hiring children from the nursery as delivery staff, arguing their familiarity with the town and agility would ensure quick deliveries. Xia Liuqing initially disagreed, finding it improper to use children, but Xia Yubing persuaded her by emphasizing the opportunity for the children to earn money and learn self-reliance. Xia Liuqing, seeing the children's eagerness, allowed them to participate. Xia Yubing then gathered the children, giving them instructions on safe and efficient delivery.
However, Xia Yubing's flourishing delivery service provoked resentment from other snack shopkeepers. They confronted her, complaining that her services were stealing their customers and that her higher wages for child delivery staff were disrupting the market. Xia Yubing countered, telling them to adapt by offering their own takeaway services and criticizing their stagnant business practices. She refused to lower the children's wages, asserting her right to pay as she wished.
The shopkeepers, threatening retaliation, soon acted on their words by deliberately obstructing the child delivery staff, causing delays, and then smashing Xia Yubing's stall, falsely accusing a child of causing an accident and demanding compensation. The dispute between Xia Yubing and the shopkeepers was taken to Xue Mu for judgment. Despite the shopkeepers' accusations of market disruption and public safety hazards, Xue Mu sided with Xia Yubing, acknowledging her innovative business model.
Xia Yubing eloquently argued that takeaway services had always existed and that her efforts simply offered convenience, while the shopkeepers were resistant to change and resorting to malicious tactics out of jealousy. Xue Mu declared that a healthy business environment needed competition, not destructive behavior, and ruled that the shopkeepers had maliciously damaged Xia Yubing's property and caused economic and operating losses. He ordered them to compensate Xia Yubing.
However, Xia Yubing surprised everyone by accepting only the compensation for her economic losses and returning the additional operating loss compensation to the shopkeepers. She then proposed a "delivery alliance," where multiple stores could share delivery staff, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing costs. She told the shopkeepers that while she was angry about their actions, she preferred to make money with them rather than destroying them, assuring them that cooperation would lead to prosperity for all.
Xia Yubing then gave the compensation money to Xia Liuqing, knowing her sister was looking to fund a school. Xia Liuqing, touched, initially thought Xia Yubing had changed her mind about using the children for deliveries, admitting her own oversight regarding the risks. Xia Yubing clarified that she would indeed hire adults, but Xia Liuqing then revealed that the children genuinely enjoyed making deliveries and would still be willing to help in their free time after school.
Xia Yubing was thrilled. Meanwhile, Xu Ziyan was treating patients when a distraught woman collapsed before speaking a word. He quickly diagnosed her with falciparum malaria, a severe, mosquito-borne disease whose symptoms could easily be mistaken for a common cold, proving fatal if untreated. He explained that soldiers in the town's southern area had recently succumbed to a similar illness, initially misdiagnosed as typhoid fever.
Xu Ziyan concluded that the humid, thickly wooded regions in the south provided an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, and these infected pests had likely now infiltrated the town. The city was immediately placed on high alert, with daily disinfection efforts initiated to eradicate the disease, and citizens were warned to keep windows closed and protect themselves from mosquito bites.
Episode 19 Recap
Rainy Terrace has been placed under strict lockdown due to a malaria outbreak, with armed guards threatening to execute anyone who attempts to leave. Inside, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan are treating malaria patients, while other residents despair over their confinement and the suspension of their businesses, with some protesting that malaria is not contagious. Xia Liuqing, who is among those confined, suddenly falls ill.
Although Xu Ziyan initially diagnoses it as symptoms of a cold, Xia Yubing, aware of the prevalent disease, fears it might be malaria, causing a ripple of panic among the residents. Xu Ziyan quickly reassures everyone, reiterating that malaria is not contagious and promising that they will all be fine.
Learning that Xia Liuqing and Xia Yubing are trapped in Rainy Terrace and that Xia Liuqing is ill, Ye Wenzhao immediately rushes to the Office of Administration, beating the drum to demand action. He confronts Xue Mu, who is surprised to hear Xia Yubing is among those confined. Xue Mu initially dismisses Xia Liuqing's symptoms as a simple cold, but then offers Xia Yubing a chance to leave with him.
Xia Yubing, however, firmly declines, stating her unwavering commitment to stay and care for Xia Liuqing while assisting Xu Ziyan. She explicitly tells Xue Mu that wherever Xu Ziyan is, she will be. Her defiance infuriates Xue Mu, who departs in a huff. Driven by his resentment, Xue Mu retaliates by ordering all malaria patients from Nancheng Town to be forcibly transferred to Rainy Terrace, effectively dooming everyone inside by creating an overwhelming environment with no escape.
Meanwhile, Xia Lan expresses delight at Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan's predicament, gleefully hoping they will "wait for death there." She asks Xue Mu to help locate her brother, Xia Yaozu. Xue Mu pretends to agree but Xia Lan later overhears him instructing his subordinate to falsely report that Xia Yaozu could not be found, citing a shortage of manpower.
Realizing Xue Mu's deception, Xia Lan takes matters into her own hands and dispatches her personal servants to search for her brother. Back in Rainy Terrace, the influx of new patients exacerbates the already dire conditions. Xia Yubing, furious at the overcrowding and severe lack of herbs, confronts a guard. Xu Ziyan intervenes, urging the guard to quickly settle the patients and leave, tacitly acknowledging the hopelessness of their situation.
Later, Xia Yubing challenges Xu Ziyan, questioning how he expects to save everyone. He simply responds that he will try, as the alternative is certain death outside. When she criticizes Xue Mu's actions, Xu Ziyan brings up her past engagement to Xue Mu, which Xia Yubing quickly dismisses as an invalid parental arrangement with no true meaning between them. Amidst their conversation, a panicked patient cries out that Xia Liuqing is dying.
Xu Ziyan rushes to her side, performing acupuncture that stabilizes her condition. The strain of his continuous efforts leaves Xu Ziyan visibly exhausted, pale, and unsteady. Xia Yubing offers him food, noting his two days of sleepless research and the appearance of gray hairs. He reassures her with a promise that he will not let her die.
As the days pass, frustrated patients, seeing no improvement from the basic herb tea, attempt to break out, but the armed guards block their path. Xia Yubing calms them, explaining that Xu Ziyan is tirelessly working to find an effective cure. Xu Ziyan then steps forward and promises to deliver a definitive cure within three days. Throughout this harrowing period, Xia Yubing dedicates herself to nursing the sick, while Ye Wenzhao secretly delivers medical supplies to Xu Ziyan.
Eventually, Xu Ziyan triumphantly announces that he has found the cure for malaria. He lists a precise combination of seemingly simple herbs, including Roughhaired Holly, Lophatherum Gracile, Citri Sarcodactμlis Fructus, Radix Helicteris, Microcos Paniculata, Cherokee Rose Root, and Senmen Oroxyli, explaining their synergistic efficacy when mixed. Xu Ziyan's discovery, however, requires funds to purchase the necessary herbs.
Ye Wenzhao, after a heated argument with his father, who complains about the rising costs and fears financial ruin, manages to secure the money. Despite his father's grumbling about Ye Wenzhao's "secret engagement" to Xia Liuqing, he eventually provides the funds, swayed by the numerous lives that could be saved. Ye Wenzhao promptly acquires the herbs and delivers them to Xu Ziyan. With the new herbal tea, Xia Liuqing's condition rapidly improves.
Days later, she makes a full recovery, sharing a tender moment with Xia Yubing, who had nursed her tirelessly. However, Xu Ziyan is utterly drained from his continuous efforts. Xia Yubing urges him to drink the preventive herbs he developed, but he insists on doing it later and then collapses. She offers her own portion of the herb tea, and they share it. Miraculously, all the patients confined in Rainy Terrace eventually make a full recovery.
Xu Ziyan entrusts the malaria prescription to Ye Wenzhao, instructing him to take it to the Office of Administration for mass production and distribution throughout the town. At the office, Xue Mu's designated doctor dismisses the prescription as unreliable, citing "unknown side effects." Ye Wenzhao vehemently accuses Xue Mu of attempting to steal credit from Xu Ziyan and of recklessly endangering lives, calling him a "bastard." Enraged, Xue Mu orders Ye Wenzhao's immediate arrest and imprisonment for obstructing official duties.
Undeterred, Ye Wenzhao takes matters into his own hands and begins distributing the medicine himself throughout the town. Xue Mu initially allows this, mockingly remarking that Ye Wenzhao can "waste his money." However, upon receiving urgent news that Governor Li is arriving for an inspection, Xue Mu changes his strategy, realizing he must "intervene" to present a facade of order and effective governance in Yanxia Town.
During Governor Li's inspection, Xue Mu proudly showcases a carefully staged scene of normalcy, with bustling streets and stalls generously distributing free herb packets and steamed bread. Governor Li is deeply impressed by Yanxia Town's orderly response compared to other affected areas, unaware that the relief efforts are co-opted and not genuinely spontaneous. He praises Xue Mu for his "great contributions" and for prioritizing people's lives over money.
When Governor Li expresses a desire to meet the doctor who developed the life-saving prescription, Xue Mu deflects, claiming it was an elusive "old doctor living in the mountain" and offering various excuses for his unavailability. Governor Li then requests a copy of the prescription and the town's regulations to implement in other towns, which Xue Mu readily provides, having prepared them in advance. Having fully recovered, Xia Liuqing learns of Ye Wenzhao's unjust imprisonment. Distraught and confident in her regained health, she declares her intention to rescue him, despite Xia Yubing's warnings about the heavy guard presence.
Episode 20 Recap
Xia Liuqing, having recovered from her illness, secretly intercepted Governor Li to reveal the dire situation in Yanxia Town. Despite his initial anger at being kidnapped, she insisted he personally witness the true conditions. She brought him to Rainy Terrace, showing him all the confined malaria patients and emphasizing that if not for Xu Ziyan, everyone would have died, and without Ye Wenzhao's efforts, they couldn't even get the most basic herbs.
She demanded to know why Ye Wenzhao had been imprisoned for obstructing official duties. Upon his return, Governor Li confronted Xue Mu, accusing him of hiding patients in Rainy Terrace and attempting to deceive him. Xue Mu defended his actions as standard isolation practice for malaria patients. However, Governor Li vehemently countered, citing Ye Wenzhao's unjust imprisonment for delivering medicine and revealing that the antidote was Xu Ziyan's creation, not that of a fabricated old doctor.
Cornered, Xue Mu blamed his Deputy Administrator, claiming he allowed him to handle affairs independently. The Deputy, under pressure and fearing for his family, admitted to deception and accepted responsibility. Governor Li ordered the immediate release of all patients, disqualified the Deputy, and vowed to deal with Xue Mu later. The Deputy expressed gratitude for the Governor's promise to ensure his family's welfare. Soon after, the freed patients joyfully reunited with their loved ones.
Governor Li then presented Xu Ziyan with a plaque inscribed "Benevolent Doctor." Xu Ziyan humbly accepted, though he found it unnecessary. Ye Wenzhao, still smarting from his wrongful imprisonment, declared he sought no plaque, only justice for his damaged reputation. Xu Ziyan was somewhat surprised to learn that the Deputy Administrator was the one punished. Governor Li assured Ye Wenzhao that the Deputy Administrator would be sent to the frontier and that Xue Mu had been heavily fined for mismanagement.
With these matters concluded, Governor Li departed. Ye Wenzhao playfully attempted to embrace Xia Liuqing, but she demurred, citing their public setting. The owner of Rainy Terrace, now deemed an unlucky place due to the malaria outbreak, put it up for sale. Xia Yubing, sentimentally attached to the place because of their shared experiences, decided to buy it for 500 taels. Xu Ziyan and others enthusiastically contributed.
A month later, Xu Ziyan surprised Xia Yubing by hanging her old "Xu Snack Store" sign. They then decided to rename their new, larger establishment. Xia Yubing suggested "Twenty-four Terrace," a name that reflected the twenty-four herbs in the malaria cure developed there, symbolizing effective healing and a fresh start. Everyone agreed to the name. However, business initially struggled.
A local tabloid had spread rumors, branding Twenty-four Terrace a "morgue for malaria patients" and accusing them of profiting from the epidemic. Xia Yubing worried about wasting their shared investment. Just then, a crowd approached. Fearing they were there to cause trouble, Xia Liuqing braced for conflict. Instead, the people were former patients who had been saved by Xu Ziyan.
They expressed profound gratitude, defended Xu Ziyan against the tabloid's lies, and enthusiastically patronized the establishment, swiftly turning the business profitable. Despite their success, Xu Ziyan remained reflective, regretting that he couldn't save more people, particularly the first female patient who died because she sought help too late. He pondered how fewer tragedies would occur if women understood preventive care and prioritized their health. Inspired, Xia Yubing quickly established a regimen club at Twenty-four Terrace, attracting many women.
She promoted various wellness practices, emphasizing that prevention was superior to cure. Xu Ziyan reinforced her message, advocating for self-care. During a regimen club session, as Xia Liuqing served butter biscuits, the women expressed their desire to open their own businesses but lamented their lack of capital, which their husbands controlled. Ye Wenzhao proposed a "loan book" system, offering to provide capital with a 10% repayment upon business success.
He demonstrated his shrewdness by accurately assessing their capabilities, prompting many women to express interest. Meanwhile, Xu Ziyan was conducting free medical treatments when his father arrived. His father presented him with "Materia Medica Diagrams," admitting his initial disapproval of Xu Ziyan treating women stemmed from his own failure to save his wife (Xu Ziyan's mother). He acknowledged his error and expressed confidence that Xu Ziyan would cure Xia Yubing.
Xu Ziyan thanked him and urged him to finally live his own life after years of widowhood. His father playfully offered to assist at the regimen club with massages or bathing, but Xu Ziyan and Xia Yubing redirected him to share stories about beauty and wellness instead, which the women enthusiastically welcomed. Later, while procuring supplies, Ye Wenzhao and Xia Liuqing discovered Xia Yaozu working as a laborer, appearing disoriented and "foolish."
His employer explained that Xia Yaozu was "retarded" and only responded to scolding. Recognizing him, Ye Wenzhao decided to take Xia Yaozu with them. Separately, Xue Mu learned that Xia Lan was still searching for her brother. He seized the opportunity to kill Xia Lan's servants who were searching for Xia Yaozu.
He then instructed another subordinate to find a suitable body to burn, making it appear to be Xia Yaozu, while simultaneously ordering Xia Yaozu's elimination if he was found. Xue Mu then visited Xia Lan, feigning sympathy and falsely claiming that his men had found Xia Yaozu's body, which Xu Ziyan had allegedly killed and then burned an inn to cover up the crime.
He showed Xia Lan a personal item, which she recognized as her brother's, and "comforted" her, vowing to find evidence of Xu Ziyan's "murder" to avenge her family. Back at Twenty-four Terrace, Xu Ziyan examined Xia Yaozu, finding only superficial skin trauma and no head injury, yet Xia Yaozu continued to act like a childish, hungry "giant baby," seemingly unable to recall anything. Xia Liuqing suggested sending him back to Xia Lan for care the following day.
Ye Wenzhao, eager to spend more time with Xia Liuqing, tried to arrange to sleep at the store, but she playfully sent him home. That night, Xia Lan, consumed by vengeance and believing Xue Mu's lies, commanded her men to set Twenty-four Terrace ablaze. The fire rapidly engulfed the building, trapping Xia Yubing, Xu Ziyan, and Xia Yaozu on the second floor. With the stairs impassable, they prepared to jump.
Unexpectedly, Xia Yaozu spoke clearly, insisting he go first, revealing he had been faking his madness. After they escaped, Xia Yaozu explained he had been feigning insanity to evade Xue Mu, who was hunting him because he knew Xue Mu's dark secrets. He shockingly claimed that Xue Mu had murdered his father and Miss Zhao. Xia Yubing expressed initial disbelief, recalling Xia Yaozu's previous conflict with Miss Zhao.
Xia Yaozu clarified that he never poisoned her, but later overheard Xue Mu admitting to his subordinate, Jiang, that he had killed Miss Zhao. He further revealed that Xue Mu had also confessed to killing his father and stood by watching him die. Xia Yubing struggled to reconcile these accusations with her cousin, Xue Mu. Amidst the chaos of the fire, Xia Liuqing apprehended an onlooker who confessed that Xia Lan was responsible for starting the blaze.
Later, Xia Liuqing and Xu Ziyan confronted Xia Lan, who was tied up. Xia Lan defiantly reiterated her belief that Xu Ziyan was the murderer of her father and brother and that she was merely seeking revenge. She asserted that the others deserved their fate for siding with him. Xu Ziyan vehemently denied her accusations. At that moment, Xia Yaozu emerged, revealing himself to be alive.
He pleaded with Xia Lan, explaining that Xue Mu had been lying to her all along, calling him an "animal." Xia Yaozu recounted how Xue Mu had threatened Xia Lan's life to force him into killing Miss Zhao, and horrifyingly, had killed their father as well. Xia Lan, still under Xue Mu's influence, refused to believe her brother, insisting her cousin would never lie. She suggested confronting Xue Mu to verify the truth. Xia Yubing, while still somewhat doubtful, declared she had a plan.
Episode 21 Recap
Xia Lan hurried to pack her belongings, preparing to leave the manor. When Xue Mu arrived, she informed him that her brother, Xia Yaozu, had returned. Xue Mu feigned surprise, claiming it was impossible as he believed Yaozu was dead, but Xia Lan clarified that the recovered body was not her brother's. Xue Mu offered to visit Yaozu, expressing concern for his well-being, but Xia Lan insisted Yaozu needed to rest and should not be disturbed for a few days.
Before leaving, Xue Mu subtly inquired if anyone else knew of Yaozu's return, and Xia Lan confirmed she had told no one. He warned her to keep it secret from Xu Ziyan, hinting at Xu Ziyan's supposed manipulations. Unbeknownst to Xue Mu, this entire exchange was a cleverly orchestrated trap by Xia Lan and Xu Ziyan.
Xue Mu, believing he was acting secretly, immediately dispatched an assassin to follow Xia Lan and eliminate the person sleeping in Yaozu's bed that night. The assassin was caught and confessed everything, revealing that Xue Mu had ordered him to kill Xia Yaozu, Xia Deshui, and Miss Zhao, threatening his family if he refused. Xia Lan was heartbroken to learn of Xue Mu’s betrayal, lamenting his deceit despite her father raising him for years.
Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan presented this testimony to an investigating censor. During the proceedings, it was further clarified that Xue Mu had ordered the assassin to kill Miss Zhao, but it was Xue Mu who ultimately poisoned her after the assassin had left. Additionally, it came to light that Xia Yaozu, blackmailed by Xue Mu, had only incapacitated Miss Zhao, thereby enabling Xue Mu to commit the murder and making Xia Yaozu an accomplice.
Based on these confessions and testimonies, the censor ordered Xue Mu's immediate arrest. Soldiers searched Xue Mu’s manor and the Office of Administration but failed to find him. A servant indicated Xue Mu's last known location was his study, where a piece of calligraphy was found, its ink still fresh. Based on the ink, Xue Mu had left a few hours earlier, apparently having fled with a large sum of money.
Realizing Xue Mu had escaped, the censor ordered General Li to secure the city gates and post wanted posters to ensure his capture. The censor then turned his attention to Xia Yaozu's case. Xia Yaozu was brought before the censor and remorsefully confessed his role in Miss Zhao's injury, explaining he was blackmailed by Xue Mu and only knocked Miss Zhao unconscious, allowing Xue Mu to commit the murder.
Xia Lan, having just learned of Yaozu's arrest, rushed in and desperately interceded for him. She admitted her desire for revenge had driven her brother's actions and that she was to blame for the fire at Twenty-four Terrace, asking to be punished in his stead. The censor asked Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan for their opinions regarding the siblings' fates. After discussing, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan expressed understanding for their actions, which were driven by familial revenge.
They decided to forgive Xia Lan for the arson. For his complicity in Miss Zhao's death, Xia Yaozu was sentenced to fifty canings. After his punishment, Xia Yaozu and Xia Lan were returned to the Xia Manor, which Xia Yubing had generously given back to them, hoping they would live honestly. The siblings lit incense for their father, promising to live better lives and cause no further trouble.
Yubing's father also had an opinion on the matter, cautioning Yubing to retain the title deed, suggesting a lingering distrust. Xia Yubing, accompanied by her loyal servant, searched the streets for a new location for Twenty-four Terrace, but she found every available shop unsuitable. She decided to inspect a secluded spot alone, but as she did, Xue Mu, who had been secretly tracking her, ambushed and abducted her. Her servant, realizing she was missing, immediately rushed to inform Xu Ziyan.
Xia Yubing awoke to find herself in a remote, dimly lit room, dressed in a red bridal gown. Xue Mu, also in wedding attire, meticulously applied makeup to her face. Xia Yubing took a bite out of him, and in a twisted gesture, he wiped the blood onto her face, telling her how perfect she looked.
He seemed to have lost his mind, passionately declaring his desire to marry her and claiming she would no longer have to do anything but be his wife. Xia Yubing tried to reason with him, reminding him that everyone was searching for her and that they could negotiate if she returned. Xue Mu, however, dismissed her concerns, confident that no one would find them.
She then attempted to stall by insisting on an auspicious time for the ceremony, which Xue Mu reluctantly agreed to. During this brief reprieve, Xia Yubing desperately tried to talk sense into him, reiterating that she had no affection for him, only seeing him as a cousin. Xue Mu, however, insisted she loved him but had simply forgotten.
He justified his past murders, claiming Xia Deshui deserved death for framing his parents and that Miss Zhao was "stupid" for getting in his way. Xia Yubing vehemently rejected his twisted logic, accusing him of being selfish and delusional. In a fit of rage, Xue Mu slapped her across the face when she declared her hatred for him and stated he was inferior to Xu Ziyan. Meanwhile, Xu Ziyan and others frantically searched the surrounding mountains for Xia Yubing.
Xia Yubing, still bound, managed to loosen her ropes while Xue Mu was asleep and attempted to flee, but Xue Mu woke and intercepted her. He became increasingly agitated, lamenting that everyone had betrayed him and left him alone, clinging to Xia Yubing and declaring she was his only hope. He insisted all his actions were out of love for her, but Xia Yubing retorted that he only acted for himself.
Her cries for help were heard by her father, Xia Shi, who had joined the search party. Xia Shi confronted Xue Mu, demanding his daughter's release. Xue Mu refused, intent on taking Xia Yubing as his bride. Xia Shi bravely fought Xue Mu, enduring multiple stab wounds to create an opening for Xia Yubing to escape. Xu Ziyan and the others arrived just as Xue Mu, severely wounded, fled the scene.
Xia Shi, however, succumbed to his injuries and died in Xia Yubing's arms, his last words acknowledging that he had finally done something right. Devastated, Xia Yubing grieved for her father, lamenting his sacrifice while Xue Mu remained at large. Xu Ziyan comforted her, expressing his sorrow over Xue Mu's escape and hoping he would never resurface. He reassured her that she should not blame herself.
Later, Xia Lan approached a still-grieving Xia Yubing, informing her that she had overseen the rebuilding and redecoration of Twenty-four Terrace, hoping to earn her forgiveness. Xia Yubing simply responded that the past was behind them. The three sisters, Xia Yubing, Xia Lan, and Xia Liuqing, subsequently celebrated the joyous reopening of the renovated Twenty-four Terrace, pledging to work together. Elsewhere, Ye Wenzhao brought Xia Liuqing to his father, Mr. Ye, seeking his approval for their marriage.
Mr. Ye initially agreed but then imposed a condition: Xia Liuqing must demonstrate business acumen, implying she should be as capable as Xia Yubing. Xia Liuqing, unfazed, argued that professions varied and her popular butter biscuits were proof of her skill. Mr. Ye dismissed her culinary talents as insufficient for a wife in the Ye family. Determined to prove him wrong, Xia Liuqing declared she would learn business to earn his approval.
She then approached Ye Wenzhao, informing him that she and Xia Yaozu would learn business from him, to which Ye Wenzhao happily agreed. Meanwhile, Xue Mu, still a fugitive, experienced a severe headache, followed by a sudden and vivid memory flashback. He saw himself crying for Xia Yubing and vowing to avenge her, leaving him to wonder about the source of this profound memory.
Episode 22 Recap
Xia Liuqing first attempted to sell her collection of swords at a pawn shop, but they were valued as scrap metal by the owner. Later, she went to Ye Wenzhao's father. Ye Wenzhao, learning of her visit, rushed back, relieved to find both his father and Liuqing unharmed. Xia Liuqing candidly admitted her lack of business acumen, stating, "I don't know how to do business," but asserted her expertise in other fields, proclaiming, "professions vary."
She presented Ye Wenzhao's father with special butter biscuits she had prepared, explaining that she had replaced maltose with red bean powder since she knew he disliked sweet foods. She confidently declared, "I was probably born a cook," and argued that without craftsmen like her, businessmen would have nothing to sell. She then boldly stated that if he still refused their marriage, she would kidnap Ye Wenzhao.
Amused by her persistence, Ye Wenzhao's father, finding her as annoying as his son, reluctantly agreed to the marriage, commenting, "No wonder he likes you," much to Ye Wenzhao's delight. The next morning, Xia Yubing awoke with a strange feeling. She noticed that the people around her seemed to have comic-like lines on them and insisted it was early morning, only for Xu Ziyan to tell her it was already noon.
Confused, she recalled being at Xu Manor just moments ago. Xu Ziyan, however, believed she was simply sleep-deprived. As the day progressed, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan began to notice that events were strangely repeating. The patients at the clinic and the scenes at the free food distribution were identical to the previous day, leading them to the alarming conclusion that they were caught in a time loop, though most other people remained unaware.
Meanwhile, Xue Mu regained consciousness at a public graveyard, plagued by a severe headache and fragmented memories that revealed the true nature of his world. Disguised, he sought out a gambling house that appeared in his visions, where a mysterious figure named Gu Gu was waiting for him. Gu Gu explained that the comic's author had struggled with the plot and created this "Public Graveyard" as an "awakening zone" to grant Xue Mu self-awareness.
Gu Gu further revealed that Xue Mu was initially a minor character, but reader comments asking for more of him led the author to expand his role, allowing him to discover the truth. Xue Mu was furious, demanding to know why others lived successful lives while he was fated to be a villain. Gu Gu simply told him to accept his fate, infuriating Xue Mu, who then killed Gu Gu. Wanted posters for Xue Mu soon appeared across the city.
Believing this world was a sham, Xue Mu decided to destroy it, starting by setting fire to the city's granary. When Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan learned of the disaster, they rushed to investigate. Seeing the dire situation and the increasing number of victims, Xia Yubing proposed opening a free porridge shop at Twenty-Four Flavors Restaurant to distribute food. Ye Wenzhao promised to help secure more supplies.
News of the free food quickly spread, drawing a large crowd of desperate people. Later, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan confronted Gu Gu, who explained that the author, An Lan, had stopped drawing the comic, trapping their world in a continuous loop of the same day. Gu Gu warned that if An Lan abandoned the comic, their entire world would eventually vanish. He clarified that only their minds were reset each day; their bodies did not loop.
This meant that injuries, illnesses, starvation, and even death were permanent and cumulative. Moreover, they were confined to Yanxia City, unable to leave the small world created by the author. Xu Ziyan reassured Xia Yubing, vowing that he would not let her disappear. While distributing food, Xia Yubing experienced another strong sense of déjà vu. Suddenly, Xue Mu appeared and kidnapped her. He confessed to burning the granary and revealed that he was unaffected by the time loop.
Xue Mu blamed Xia Yubing for all the tragedies, arguing that her actions to avoid her own fate had caused suffering for countless others. He proposed that if she left Yanxia City with him, all the city's problems—the famine, the malaria, and the looping day—might disappear. Considering Gu Gu's words that they couldn't escape the city, Xia Yubing wondered if Xue Mu, who seemed immune to the loop, might be the only one capable of breaking it.
She agreed to accompany him. Xue Mu tied her with a rope and led her out of the city, gloating that the "crap author" and "crap protagonist" now had to obey him. Back in the city, Xu Ziyan grew increasingly worried when Xia Yubing didn't return. Despite walking for a long time, Xue Mu and Xia Yubing found themselves back at their starting point in Yanxia City, trapped. Frustrated, Xue Mu turned on Xia Yubing.
Just as he was about to harm her, Xu Ziyan arrived, having tracked them down. Xu Ziyan attempted to kill Xue Mu, but Xia Yubing stopped him, insisting that Xue Mu, having caused so much suffering, should endure a slow and painful punishment rather than a swift death. Xue Mu was then taken into custody. Recognizing that distributing existing food was only a temporary measure, Xia Yubing devised a new plan to break the cycle.
She began distributing red bean seeds to the townspeople, hoping that because consumables did not loop, the seeds might grow overnight, providing a sustainable food source outside the loop. While some residents were skeptical, others, desperate for a solution, accepted the seeds and began planting them, holding onto the hope that their perseverance would make a difference. In the real world, An Lan, the comic's author, was struggling with a severe case of writer's block and angrily smashed her computer.
However, she experienced a vivid dream, seemingly entering the world of her comic. There, she witnessed Xia Yubing and the other characters tirelessly distributing seeds and refusing to give up, even in the face of their looping reality. This scene deeply moved An Lan. Waking from her dream, she checked her phone and saw numerous messages from her readers, eagerly awaiting new chapters of "Rewriting Destiny." Inspired by the resilience of her characters and the dedication of her fans, An Lan resolved to overcome her creative slump and continue writing.
Episode 23 Recap
The cyclical day that had trapped everyone was finally broken. After much persistence, the red beans that Xia Yubing and her community planted had sprouted, and Ye Wenzhao and Xia Yaozu returned with abundant food from the suburbs, alleviating the famine. Meanwhile, Xue Mu, who had been imprisoned, managed to escape from his cell and fled the city, eventually finding refuge in the mountains. There, he encountered a group of struggling refugees, whom he quickly gathered as followers.
Distributing food among them, Xue Mu declared that their lives were predetermined to be one of constant hunger and suffering. He urged them to unite and defy the fate that had been set for them, quickly gaining a following from the desperate people. They began to rob passing traders and travelers on Miaofeng Mountain. Back in the city, Xia Yubing's health continued to deteriorate, though she tried to hide the severity of her condition from Xu Ziyan, fearing his worry.
When he confronted her about her prolonged isolation, she admitted she didn't want to burden him. Xia Yubing confessed that she knew her time was running out, but she had found peace in realizing that the meaning of her life lay in her connections with everyone, particularly Xu Ziyan. She expressed a desire to simply live happily in the present moment, no longer afraid of death because her life had been wonderful enough.
She asked Xu Ziyan to honor her last wish: to spend her remaining days happily by her side. Though heartbroken, Xu Ziyan tearfully agreed. Driven by his desire to save Xia Yubing, Xu Ziyan, with his father, diligently searched through medical texts. They discovered a method involving an anesthetic and surgery to remove an internal mass. They identified all the necessary ingredients for the anesthetic except for calamus, which could be found on Miaofeng Mountain.
Despite a local villager's warning that the mountain was dangerous and controlled by a gang of refugees who had even killed officers, Xu Ziyan was determined to go. However, upon reaching the mountain, he was captured by Xue Mu. Xue Mu confronted Xu Ziyan, revealing his resentment for being cast as the villain in a predetermined story and his desire to be the hero.
He kept Xu Ziyan captive, leaving a note for Xia Yubing at the Public Graveyard, demanding her presence in exchange for Xu Ziyan's life. Xia Yubing overheard others discussing the note and decided to go alone, despite their protests. When she arrived, Xue Mu initially claimed Xu Ziyan was dead but then revealed him, tied and helpless. Xia Yubing pleaded with Xue Mu to release Xu Ziyan, offering to go with him in his place.
Xu Ziyan, despite being incapacitated by a "Powerless Powder," tried to explain to Xue Mu that only he could perform the life-saving surgery for Xia Yubing. He declared that if Xia Yubing could not be saved, he would die with her, accusing Xue Mu of not truly loving her. Xue Mu, however, stated he would not let Xu Ziyan leave the graveyard alive. Unbeknownst to Xue Mu, a servant stealthily untied Xu Ziyan.
As Xia Liuqing and Ye Wenzhao arrived, Xue Mu forcibly took Xia Yubing, warning everyone not to follow as he had mined the path ahead. Xia Yubing, as she was taken, urged Xu Ziyan to remember to eat regularly. As Xue Mu tried to escape with Xia Yubing, Xia Lan ambushed him. In the struggle, both Xia Lan and Xue Mu fell off a cliff.
Xia Yubing desperately threw rocks at Xue Mu, while he attempted to signal his men to detonate the explosives he had laid. However, Xia Yaozu, who was nearby, doused the lit fuses with his urine, preventing a full explosion. Xia Yubing struggled to pull Xia Lan back up from the cliff edge, eventually receiving help from Xia Liuqing, and together they rescued Xia Lan. Xue Mu, having fallen, was finally dead.
With Xue Mu no longer a threat, Xu Ziyan continued his efforts to save Xia Yubing. He prepared for the surgery, assuring her that the anesthetic would prevent any pain. However, after administering the anesthetic, Xia Yubing developed a severe red rash, indicating an allergic reaction. This meant the crucial surgery could not proceed, leaving Xu Ziyan devastated and feeling helpless, as he realized she might not survive the pain without it.
Refusing to give up, Xu Ziyan relentlessly searched through medical texts for another solution. He discovered a folk prescription for "transfusion," which he believed could save Xia Yubing. His father and Ye Wenzhao expressed grave concerns about the method's unreliability and potential fatal risks, especially if blood types were incompatible. Despite the warnings, Xu Ziyan was determined to try, believing it was their only hope.
His father, Xia Liuqing, and Ye Wenzhao all immediately volunteered their blood, but Xia Yubing intervened. She firmly refused the transfusion, unwilling to let anyone risk their life for hers, especially if it might not even work. She reminded Xu Ziyan of his promise to simply spend her remaining time happily with her. With a heavy heart, Xu Ziyan honored her wish. Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan then spent their days cherishing every moment together.
They enjoyed simple pleasures like archery and eating, reminiscing about their first humorous encounter where he thought she was a "crazy little mad girl" and she called him a "pervert." During one such peaceful moment, Xia Yubing prepared soup but forgot to add salt. Xu Ziyan, ever considerate, pretended it was delicious before secretly adding salt. However, shortly after tasting the adjusted soup, Xia Yubing collapsed, a grim reminder that her severe illness continued to take its toll.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
Xia Yubing prepared a meal, but upon tasting it, she immediately fainted. When she woke up, she was disoriented, asking Xu Ziyan about buying groceries as if their previous plans were still current. Xu Ziyan quickly suspected she might have amnesia, though his father initially dismissed it, believing her symptoms were physical.
Desperate, Xu Ziyan went to find the boss of the gambling house, but was met with confusion as no one knew such a person, implying Gu Gu and the gambling house from earlier in the story no longer existed in the same way. Back home, Xia Yubing woke again, still confused, and didn't recognize the name Gu Gu when Xu Ziyan mentioned his disappearance.
Xu Ziyan’s father then confirmed that the aggressive disease had spread to her brain, causing memory loss, much like Xu Ziyan’s own mother, who only survived about half a month after her amnesia. Xu Ziyan was distraught, realizing she would forget everything, including him. Meanwhile, Xia Liuqing went to the Ye Manor to propose marriage to Ye Wenzhao.
She stumbled over the formal wording but declared her love, stating that she admired Ye Wenzhao's bravery and was willing to learn to be a good wife. Ye Wenzhao was taken aback by the sudden proposal, admitting he wasn't ready. However, his father, seeing Xia Liuqing's determination, encouraged her to marry his son and "keep him in line." Ye Wenzhao’s father, despite scolding his son for letting a girl propose, gave his blessing. Preparations for their wedding began.
Xu Ziyan noticed Xia Yubing's growing detachment and proposed that they get married again, explaining that their previous wedding didn't count because it wasn't born of mutual affection. Xia Yubing, her memory clouded, was confused about getting married twice but was swayed by Xu Ziyan's declaration of enduring love and his heartfelt offer of his jade pendant.
She reluctantly agreed, and Xu Ziyan decided they would have their wedding on the same day as Xia Liuqing and Ye Wenzhao, which was just two days away. Xia Yubing suspected Xu Ziyan had planned it all, and he playfully admitted to liking his newfound bossiness. On the morning of the wedding, Xia Liuqing was in her bridal attire, albeit complaining about the heavy makeup.
Xia Lan went to check on Xia Yubing, only to discover she had disappeared, leaving a note. At the pier, Xia Yubing, experiencing a strong sense of déjà vu, declared her intention to escape, believing she had "died because of Xu Ziyan so many times" and would "rather marry a dog than marry him."
Just as she was about to board a ferry, Xu Ziyan intercepted her, offering her half of his store and mentioning her need for money to buy more time, which surprised her. It became clear that Xia Yubing’s memory had regressed to a time when she had completely forgotten her love for Xu Ziyan. Xia Liuqing and Ye Wenzhao’s wedding proceeded smoothly.
Liuqing, true to her nature, found the traditional bridal veil cumbersome and opted to ride a horse instead of a sedan chair. Later, in their bridal chamber, Ye Wenzhao awkwardly consulted a "Strategies of Marriage" guide.
After a few stilted attempts to follow the instructions, like removing the veil and calling each other "husband" and "wife" (which Liuqing quickly abandoned), Ye Wenzhao decided the steps were too tedious and tore out several pages, opting to simply go to sleep to make the plot develop quickly. Xu Ziyan brought Xia Yubing back home for their contract marriage. Xia Yubing reminded him that their arrangement was merely a "contract" and "part of the play."
He gently urged her to sleep after she ate. The next morning, Xu Ziyan woke to find her gone and frantically searched for her, even running out barefoot. He soon found her, and a servant noted her significantly increased appetite since her memory loss. Later, when Xia Liuqing and Ye Wenzhao visited, Xia Yubing was genuinely surprised to learn they were married, questioning their past animosity, which further indicated her fragmented memory.
Xu Ziyan then took Xia Liuqing and Ye Wenzhao aside to explain Xia Yubing's amnesia, causing Liuqing to become upset that he had kept such a vital matter secret. He reiterated that it was the aggressive disease, affecting her brain as it did his mother. He expressed his desire to simply spend as much time with her as possible. Xia Liuqing, despite her anger, sent people to seek doctors outside the city.
Back in their room, Xia Yubing noticed the extensive red decorations, asking why it looked like a wedding room. Xu Ziyan explained it was to remind her that they were married. She found him "different" but "nice," and they playfully discussed business ideas for a "Twenty-four Set" of biscuits and tea. One morning, Xu Ziyan awoke to find Xia Yubing truly gone.
He, along with his father and Xia Liuqing, desperately searched for her throughout the city but found no trace. Returning home, Xu Ziyan discovered a letter written by Xia Yubing during a moment of clarity. In the letter, she spoke of her fading memories and the pain it caused, imploring herself, "You can forget everyone, just don't forget that Xu Ziyan is the one you love the most." Heartbroken, Xu Ziyan decided to leave and find her.
He left a letter for his father, Ye Wenzhao, and Xia Liuqing, stating his unwavering resolve to bring Xia Yubing back. He also revealed a shocking truth: their world was not real, but merely painted, yet his love for Xia Yubing was profoundly real. The others were left stunned and confused by this revelation, questioning their own existence. The story then shifted to the modern world, where An Lan, the author of the successful comic "Rewriting Destiny," was being interviewed.
She spoke about her creative journey, how her characters, especially Xia Yubing, seemed to gain a life of their own, embodying a part of An Lan herself and doing things she couldn't. She mused on whether Xia Yubing was "another me in that world." The interviewer inquired about the whereabouts of Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan at the end of her comic. An Lan responded with a knowing smile.
Five years later, in the world of the comic, life had flourished. Xia Liuqing and Ye Wenzhao now had a playful young son, whom Ye Wenzhao was attempting to educate. Xia Lan and Xia Yaozu diligently managed the thriving Twenty-four Terrace, debating business strategies and keeping a close eye on their finances. Despite their contentment, the friends often wondered about Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan, discussing whether "Lord Author" could "paint" Xia Yubing back.
Just then, two familiar figures, Xia Yubing and Xu Ziyan, returned to the Twenty-four Terrace, accompanied by their own child, fulfilling Xu Ziyan's promise and bringing joyful completion to their story.
