Serendipity Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Serendipity Synopsis

Jian Ming Shu, the young lady of the Jiangning Jian family, who unexpectedly falls off a cliff and loses her memory, escaping a tragic massacre of her family. She is saved by her love interest, Lu Chang, and they travel together to the capital for the imperial exam. As the story progresses, Ming Shu, who has doubts about her own identity, enters the inner courtyard to investigate and unravel mysteries, only to discover clues about her true heritage.

However, her investigation leads her into a series of dangerous situations, and she believes she is stepping into danger alone, but little does she know, Lu Chang has always been quietly protecting her. With Lu Chang's gentle care and companionship, Ming Shu’s heart gradually melts. Together, they face numerous challenges and, in the end, confirm their feelings for each other, spending the rest of their lives together

Serendipity Recap

Episode 1 Recap

During the prosperous and peaceful era of the Da'an Dynasty, all industries thrived and the civil service examination was highly popular. It became customary for families to seek sons-in-law among the newly titled scholars. Whether one possessed extraordinary talent or was a noble descendant, no one could escape this trend. Even secluded young ladies would peek from their chambers, deeply admiring the scholars.

Lu Chang was studying freely at the Jian family academy and was expected to win the top spot in the upcoming exam. Although the Jian family was one of the wealthiest in Jiangnan, they were still considered part of the lower gentry. Thus, Jian Jinhai took a liking to Lu Chang as a potential son-in-law. Coincidentally, Lu Chang was also the man Jian Mingshu had feelings for.

With the marriage competition taking place tomorrow, Lu Chang was bound to be fiercely sought after by many families, and Jian Jinhai had already made his preparations in advance. Jian Mingshu, the eldest daughter of the Jian family, managed the family’s shop. The upcoming marriage contest was the perfect opportunity for their gold store to shine. That day, Gao Wan and Madam Wu came to the shop to select betrothal gifts.

When Jian Mingshu overheard that Gao Wan planned to take Madam Wu to dine at Tingzhu Pavilion, she approached them with an exquisite hair ornament and exposed Gao Wan’s intentions. It turned out Tingzhu Pavilion was located in a secluded area far from the city, and with the hour being late, it would be hard to return that night. However, there were private rooms there. Only then did Madam Wu realize she had been deceived and angrily left.

Gao Wan, humiliated, lashed out and tried to strike Jian Mingshu, but Lu Chang arrived just in time to save her. Jian Mingshu was overjoyed to see Lu Chang again after so long. At that moment, Madam Wu’s brother came to thank her and offered to serve her loyally. Hearing this, Lu Chang turned away with jealousy. Jian Mingshu quickly followed him—since his return from studying abroad, they hadn’t had a proper conversation.

Yet Lu Chang’s response was cold and brief, and they parted after just a few words. Two years ago, before Lu Chang left to study, Jian Mingshu had braved the snow to see him off, her eyes full of reluctance. In those two years, Jian Mingshu had become the mistress of the family business, and Lu Chang had also changed greatly. But Jian Mingshu didn’t mind. She was willing to break the ice and take the initiative.

People make their own fate—all one can do is try their best. Lu Chang found the jade pendant of his teacher, Mr. Su, in Gao Wan’s residence, which puzzled him. Mr. Su had been Lu Chang’s mentor, and he knew Mr. Su’s character well. He had long wanted to clear Mr. Su’s name, though the path was full of thorns. That was why he kept his distance from Jian Mingshu—he didn’t want to drag her into it.

Jian Mingshu had always opposed the marriage contest, so Jian Jinhai decided to keep it from her for the time being. Jian Mingshu knew Lu Chang was the most sought-after candidate for marriage and, although she knew he wouldn’t agree to their plans, she also feared other families might resort to underhanded tactics. So, she supported Jian Jinhai in participating in the contest—but she would only marry Lu Chang.

Lu Chang’s friend invited him for a talk and revealed that when Mr. Su was imprisoned, Jian Jinhai had cursed and humiliated him. Lu Chang was heartbroken and at a loss—he had always respected Jian Jinhai for his generosity and kindness. The next day, the four prominent families of Jianglin personally came out to vie for Lu Chang. Meanwhile, Jian Mingshu arrived at the Lu residence with many gifts. When the exam results were posted, Lu Chang indeed came first.

The families rushed to capture him as their son-in-law, swarming the streets. Lu Chang had to fight his way out, overcoming obstacle after obstacle. Jian Mingshu went to see Lu Chang’s mother, Aunt Zeng, and expressed her sincere intentions. Aunt Zeng had always liked her and raised no objections. But she reminded her that Lu Chang was a man of few words and deep thoughts. Jian Mingshu planned to explain things to him face-to-face.

She invited Aunt Zeng to the Jian residence and left a note asking Lu Chang to come pick her up. When Lu Chang returned home, he decided to speak frankly with the Jian family. At the Jian residence, he made it clear he had no intention of marrying. Jian Jinhai invited him to sit and have tea, then offered the vast Jian family fortune as temptation. Still, Lu Chang refused.

Jian Jinhai, full of sincerity, became angry at being rejected so firmly. Lu Chang, in turn, asked if he still remembered insulting his teacher. The maid told Jian Mingshu that Lu Chang had agreed, and she was relieved—it seemed he still remembered their past. When she was little and missed her mother, crying day and night, Lu Chang had comforted her with pastries.

The maid said that Jian Jinhai and Aunt Zeng had chosen today as an auspicious day—they could consummate the marriage now and hold the ceremony later. Jian Mingshu believed it. Though she felt something was off, she still happily donned her wedding attire and went to the bridal chamber. However, when Lu Chang woke from the drugged state and found himself in the bridal chamber, he was furious.

Jian Mingshu explained she knew nothing about the drug and didn’t want to believe it had all been one-sided. But Lu Chang tore off his wedding robe on the spot, angrily accusing her of using gratitude to force love and severing all ties. Jian Mingshu’s heart instantly went cold. She had thought he remembered their childhood bond, but it turned out to be just her wishful thinking.

They had known each other for so many years—if Lu Chang had feelings for her, how could he misunderstand her like this? Jian Mingshu said no more. With tears streaming down her face, she poured two cups of wedding wine. She drank with him one final time—as a farewell.

Episode 2 Recap

Jian Mingshu was furious upon learning that Jian Jinhai had drugged Lu Chang, and Jian Jinhai himself was also greatly angered by the situation. Madam Zeng knew that Jian Mingshu had genuine feelings for Lu Chang, and it was a pity that he had rejected her so decisively, causing a good marriage to fall through.

Because of what happened with Lu Chang, Jian Jinhai felt sorry for his daughter, but Jian Mingshu said she had already fought for it, so she had no regrets. Jian Jinhai specially had someone make a new piece of jewelry for Jian Mingshu using her newly developed craft. After Aunt Zhou saw Jian Mingshu off, she returned to her room and saw the wedding gown, which made Jian Mingshu feel sad.

Just as she was about to order someone to throw it away, she received word that a lead had been found regarding Aunt Zhou’s whereabouts. Her movements seemed suspicious, so Jian Mingshu ordered an investigation and insisted on uncovering the truth before Jian Jinhai found out. Lu Chang and Madam Zeng left Jianglin in haste to assume an official post in the capital.

On the way, Jian Mingshu briefly crossed paths with Lu Chang while she was investigating Aunt Zhou’s whereabouts. She knew that Lu Chang was indeed heading for the capital. Even though she had said she would let go, seeing him again still made her heart ache. At Xinghua Garden, Jian Mingshu discovered Aunt Zhou entangled with a man, clearly having a shady relationship.

She overheard the man saying he planned to wipe out the Jian family, shocking Jian Mingshu so much that her presence was exposed, and she was chased. Meanwhile, a group of black-clad men broke into the Jian residence and killed everyone. A servant gave his life to shield Jian Jinhai and buy him time to escape. On the other side, Jian Mingshu only managed to flee because her maid died protecting her.

Driven to desperation, Jian Jinhai and Jian Mingshu were cornered. Jian Mingshu fell off a cliff, and Jian Jinhai was killed on the spot. Resting at the bottom of the cliff, Lu Chang heard a scream and went forward with a torch, only to find someone had fainted. Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a gravely injured Jian Mingshu.

With people still searching above the cliff, Lu Chang realized the area was unsafe and quickly extinguished the torch, taking Jian Mingshu onto the carriage. Jian Mingshu was the only survivor of the Jian family. The black-clad pursuers would not let her off easily. Lu Chang found the situation suspicious and decided to return to inform Jian Jinhai of Jian Mingshu’s condition, only to witness the horrifying aftermath of the Jian family massacre.

The authorities hastily closed the case, claiming the Jian family had colluded with bandits. When Lu Chang’s friend visited the Jian residence, the butler, barely alive, revealed that the attackers had come to demand information about Mr. Su from Jian Jinhai. It suddenly dawned on Lu Chang that this was what Jian Jinhai had meant back then. After suffering this tragedy, Jian Mingshu woke up not recognizing Lu Chang or Madam Zeng, nor remembering her own identity.

She had lost her memory. The physician said she could not handle any more shock, so Lu Chang instructed Madam Zeng never to mention the Jian family incident until Jian Mingshu recovered. For now, he could only bring her to the capital, claiming she was his younger sister named Lu Mingshu. He was determined to protect her. Lu Chang put away Jian Mingshu’s jewelry and was about to remove her bracelet when she suddenly woke up.

She still couldn’t remember anything. Lu Chang insisted he was her brother and told her she was called Lu Mingshu. Jian Mingshu didn’t easily believe him, though she did feel a strange sense of familiarity with them. When Jian Mingshu got out of bed by herself, Lu Chang hurried to help her back. Meanwhile, her portrait had been posted everywhere in the city, labeled as part of a search for relatives.

Upon seeing this, Lu Chang forbade Jian Mingshu from going outside and made plans to leave via a small, hidden path. Jian Mingshu opened the window and saw her own portrait with “seeking relatives” written on it. She tricked Madam Zeng into leaving and went to the Jian family’s gold shop. The black-clad men had already been lying in wait, and Lu Chang appeared again just in time to save her.

Back in the room, Lu Chang urged Jian Mingshu and Madam Zeng to pack up and leave immediately. A waiter at the inn had been observing their movements, so Lu Chang and Jian Mingshu deliberately said they would head south by water, while in truth they went by land. On the carriage, Jian Mingshu shook her gold bracelet and asked if it truly belonged to her.

Lu Chang said their mother had always favored her and gave her all the best things. He noticed rashes on Jian Mingshu’s skin and guessed it was because she had grown up pampered and couldn’t get used to the coarse clothing Madam Zeng gave her. At an inn, Madam Zeng helped Jian Mingshu bathe in herbal medicine and applied ointment. The next day, Lu Chang took her to pick out some undergarments.

As Lu Chang was about to pay, Jian Mingshu noted that the fabric wasn’t worth the price and bargained it down significantly. Since they needed money badly in the capital, Jian Mingshu was very careful with spending. That night on the road, Madam Zeng caught a chill and started coughing. Jian Mingshu quickly covered her with a coat.

When the carriage axle broke and a storm was coming, the three of them took shelter in a nearby house, only to discover that many other carriages there had broken axles as well. Lu Chang and Jian Mingshu braved their fear and went inside to investigate, only to find the house full of corpses.

Episode 3 Recap

Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang carefully entered the house and found many corpses on the ground. At the same time, they heard a woman’s cry for help from upstairs. Lu Chang shielded Jian Mingshu as they cautiously went upstairs. Lu Chang went to deal with the mountain bandits, while Jian Mingshu grabbed a branding iron and rescued the woman who was nearly assaulted.

As Lu Chang could not split his attention to save Jian Mingshu, it was fortunate that Song Qingzhao appeared and saved her. Tao Yiqian, trembling in the corner, was extremely grateful upon realizing it was Jian Mingshu who had saved her. She pleaded with Jian Mingshu to help rescue her maid and bodyguards. Lu Chang and Song Qingzhao saw the bandits return, but there were only four of them, so they decided to fight.

Jian Mingshu was accidentally targeted by the bandits and fled into the woods to save her life. Lu Chang rushed to her rescue but fell off a cliff in the process. Seeing her brother fall from the cliff, Jian Mingshu cried out in heartbreak, only for Lu Chang to climb back up the next second. Jian Mingshu no longer had any doubts and wept aggrievedly. To save her, Lu Chang had been willing to risk his life!

The three of them temporarily rested there. Hearing Jian Mingshu call him brother, Zeng Yi was overjoyed. That night, Lu Chang hid away to apply medicine to his injuries. Jian Mingshu accidentally barged in and, seeing his bare upper body, immediately covered her eyes. She had come to deliver medicine to Lu Chang, knowing he was secretly tending his wounds to avoid worrying Zeng Yi.

Jian Mingshu returned again and, seeing Lu Chang struggling to treat the wounds on his back, snatched the medicine and helped him, her eyes full of distress. Seeing the frostbite on Lu Chang’s hands, Jian Mingshu took out ointment given by the lady they saved and applied it to his hands, causing Lu Chang’s face to flush red unknowingly. Song Qingzhao invited Lu Chang to head to the capital together.

However, seeing the luxurious air about Song Qingzhao, Lu Chang was very cautious, although Song Qingzhao treated the "siblings" very honestly. To thank them for saving her, Tao Yiqian offered a lot of silver as gratitude. Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang were unwilling to accept it, but Jian Mingshu understood the intention behind it and accepted. This silver was not just thanks; it was also a hope for their silence.

After setting out again, their movements were discovered by pursuers, but Lu Chang had prepared and managed to mislead them into thinking they had not taken Jian Mingshu. Jian Mingshu was actually in Song Qingzhao’s luxurious carriage. Lu Chang knew that Song Qingzhao’s identity was definitely not ordinary; a man of such status willing to save others spoke volumes of his character, so Lu Chang was relieved to entrust Jian Mingshu to him. On the way, heavy rain suddenly fell.

Song Qingzhao’s carriage leaked, and Jian Mingshu spotted a pavilion not far away. She dashed into the rain, spinning around. To her, if she couldn’t avoid getting wet, she might as well enjoy it to the fullest. Song Qingzhao’s eyes lit up immediately and he joined her. The two of them hid in the pavilion, watching the rainbow after the rain. Upon arriving in the capital, Lu Chang’s group parted ways with Song Qingzhao.

Song Qingzhao specially instructed his people to keep an eye on them in case they needed help. After parting ways with Tao Yiqian again, the three found the place Ying Xun had arranged. Ying Xun was now working in Liangzhou Prefecture. When he saw Jian Mingshu, he paused for a moment but then quickly led them into the rented house, saying it was very good.

Jian Mingshu looked helplessly at the dilapidated courtyard before her, but Zeng Yi said it could still be lived in after some tidying up. After tidying up the courtyard, Lu Chang and Jian Mingshu went out to stroll the streets. Now, Jian Mingshu trusted Lu Chang completely, making it hard for him to handle. Zeng Yi made new clothes for them. Lu Chang, with a sour face, walked off, but Jian Mingshu didn’t blame him.

Instead, she felt sorry for him working so hard for the family. Hearing her words, Lu Chang’s lips quietly curved into a smile. That night, Zeng Yi prepared a table full of dishes. Jian Mingshu took out the remaining ninety taels of silver, but Zeng Yi and Lu Chang thought she should keep it. The next day, Lu Chang was heading to Songling Academy. He picked up a dog and gave it to Jian Mingshu, naming it Zaozao.

Before leaving, Lu Chang was very worried and asked Ying Xun to help take care of Zeng Yi and Jian Mingshu. Lu Chang’s purpose in going to Songling Academy was to find influential people to help with the case. The sachet Song Qingzhao carried was precisely from Songling Academy. Song Qingzhao was about to visit Lu Chang and Jian Mingshu when he ran into Jian Mingshu on the street.

Episode 4 Recap

Jian Mingshu and Song Qingzhao ran into each other on the street. She planned to do business in the capital to earn money. Although Lu Chang didn’t want her to worry about such things, she was unwilling to stay idle. Hearing this, Song Qingzhao admired Jian Mingshu even more. He invited her to a teahouse for some food, while Jian Mingshu was still pondering what business to start in the capital.

Song Qingzhao talked endlessly about his mother's love for cosmetics, which gave Jian Mingshu some inspiration. Song Qingzhao and Jian Mingshu saw a maid beside Tao Yiqian arguing with a shop owner because the hairpin she had bought was poorly made and soon broke, but the owner refused to refund her. Seeing this, Jian Mingshu stepped forward to help. She drew a design and suggested modifying the hairpin according to her drawing.

Both the shop owner and the maid's eyes lit up. In fact, Jian Mingshu didn’t know why, but she was very interested in jewelry and could instinctively see how to improve it. At the academy, Yang Zishu swaggered in looking for Lu Chang with an air of bullying. As a result, Lu Chang gave him a good lesson, and Yang Zishu immediately became very respectful. In the academy, Lu Chang and Song Qingzhao finally met again.

Jian Mingshu was planning to open a jewelry shop, and her first task was to find a storefront. She happened to see that the previous shop owner was planning to leave because of family matters. Jian Mingshu hoped to take over his shop, but she only had ninety taels, which was far from enough. Just as she was feeling helpless, she ran into Tao Yiqian, who generously offered to lend her the money.

However, Jian Mingshu refused because this was something she wanted to accomplish on her own. Tao Yiqian then revealed her real name—she was Yin Xianjun, the third daughter of the Yin family. Jian Mingshu didn’t mind, understanding that it was often inconvenient for women to travel under their real names. Prince Rui was planning to marry into the Yin family but hated extravagance and refused to decorate his mansion. Prince Rui was Song Qingzhao’s cousin.

He hoped Song Qingzhao could attend a tea banquet at the Yin residence. The Empress had heard rumors that Yin Shujun had questionable virtue; if this were true, Prince Rui would have to choose another fiancée. He asked Song Qingzhao to investigate secretly. Lu Chang had been secretly working to overturn his late teacher's case. Since Grand Tutor Yin had once been his teacher's mentor, Lu Chang thought there might be an opportunity to get close to him.

Upon seeing that Song Qingzhao had an invitation to the Yin family's tea banquet, Lu Chang hoped to accompany him. In order to earn some silver, Yin Xianjun introduced Jian Mingshu to the Yin family to become a study companion for the eldest daughter. She specifically reminded her that the eldest daughter was a legitimate heir with a high status.

However, about a year ago, she had a drastic change in personality—beating servants, killing cats and dogs, and even pushing her nanny into the water. With the marriage to Prince Rui approaching, the elder madam of the Yin family hoped to find someone to watch over Yin Shujun. Yin Xianjun introduced Jian Mingshu to her second sister, Yin Liangjun, who was kind and gentle. However, Yin Shujun immediately looked down on Jian Mingshu, calling her a pauper.

Yet, as Lu Chang’s sister, Jian Mingshu was well-versed in poetry and literature. Yin Shujun secretly slipped her a note trying to frame her. Yin Shujun then openly tried to have Jian Mingshu thrown out of the Yin household. Jian Mingshu calmly explained herself, and her words convinced the teacher. Yin Shujun still refused to give up, causing Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang to grow increasingly anxious.

At that moment, the elder madam of the Yin family arrived, stopped Yin Shujun from making more trouble, and instructed Yin Xianjun to bring Jian Mingshu to see her after class. Lu Chang was very displeased that Jian Mingshu had gone to the Yin family on her own to work as a study companion. After class, Yin Xianjun intended to take Jian Mingshu to meet the elder madam, but Jian Mingshu asked her to go ahead first.

It turned out Yin Shujun was secretly meeting a man, and Yin Liangjun originally planned to catch them in the act. Jian Mingshu intervened and helped Yin Shujun. Meanwhile, Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang met with Imperial Censor Yin. Not long after, Censor Yin left, citing urgent matters. Shortly after, Young Master Jiang also excused himself and hurriedly left. Song Qingzhao found this suspicious.

Censor Yin later came to the elder madam's place in a rage after hearing that the teacher had resigned that day. Jian Mingshu found it strange—if Yin Shujun had previous misconducts, why did the teacher resign only now? Censor Yin wanted to quickly find a replacement teacher. Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang volunteered, and Censor Yin arranged accommodations for them without hesitation. Jian Mingshu and Yin Shujun clashed fiercely, which made the elder madam decide to keep Jian Mingshu.

One day, Jian Mingshu saw Yin Liangjun anxiously looking for her cat and followed her, only to see Yin Shujun holding the cat in her arms. Yin Liangjun was immediately terrified. The maid explained that all animals that Yin Shujun had touched before had ended up dead, and Yin Liangjun was also very scared.

Episode 5 Recap

At night, Jian Mingshu finally returned to her room to rest, but Lu Chang climbed in through the window, blaming her for lacking vigilance. Soon after, Song Qingzhao also arrived. Seeing Song Qingzhao smiling warmly, Lu Chang instantly became furious. Hearing Jian Mingshu and Song Qingzhao discussing opening a shop made him even more jealous; he hadn't even known Jian Mingshu was planning to open a shop.

Jian Mingshu hurriedly explained, saying that learning more would help her recovery from soul separation. However, while she could open a shop, both Lu Chang and Song Qingzhao disagreed with her staying at the Yin residence as a companion reader, but Jian Mingshu insisted on staying. The next day in the study hall, Jian Mingshu began seriously analyzing the relationships between the three daughters of the Yin family. Lu Chang and Song Qingzhao arrived at the school as well.

From that day on, one would teach literature and the other music. Their arrival greatly excited Yin Liangjun, for Song Qingzhao was the cousin of Prince Rui, and Lu Chang was also extraordinarily handsome. During the literature class taught by Lu Chang, he noticed Song Qingzhao and Jian Mingshu passing notes and had Song Qingzhao assist with playing the qin. The two handsome gentlemen captivated all the ladies present.

After class, Yin Shujun was kept behind because she, as usual, had not submitted her homework. Lu Chang easily threatened her by saying he would report her daily to Grand Tutor Yin, forcing Yin Shujun to accept a punishment of three strikes with the ruler. Lu Chang asked Jian Mingshu to administer the punishment, but Jian Mingshu suddenly changed her mind and wanted to inspect Yin Shujun’s room instead.

Yin Shujun had thought Lu Chang would not agree but was shocked to learn that he was Jian Mingshu’s elder brother. Lu Chang declared that he was very protective and would not tolerate anyone disrespecting Jian Mingshu. Jian Mingshu boldly entered Yin Shujun’s room to inspect it. She picked up an embroidered pair of mandarin ducks and refused to return it, almost getting into a fight with Yin Shujun.

Jian Mingshu could tell that something was wrong with the room; Yin Shujun was clearly a noble lady skilled in calligraphy and painting. Jian Mingshu used the jewelry she made herself to build relationships with the servants in the mansion, hoping to learn more about Yin Shujun. Aunt Zeng felt that Jian Mingshu’s desire to open a shop was her way of gradually reclaiming herself.

Only now did Aunt Zeng realize that Jian Mingshu was not a spoiled noble girl but someone with a rich inner world. Song Qingzhao was delayed returning home while running errands for Prince Rui, angering his father, who sent him to the ancestral hall to kneel as punishment. The Song family had always been strict in raising Song Qingzhao. Jian Mingshu saw Yin Shujun holding a cat in the garden.

When she approached, Yin Shujun cursed at her, so Jian Mingshu took the cat from her arms. Yin Shujun was informed by her parents that she would be marrying Prince Rui in a few days. She was born noble, and marrying into the royal family was supposed to be her best fate, but for Yin Shujun, it was not the best outcome.

Furious, Yin Shujun returned to her room and had her maid deliver something to her third uncle, believing she could still change her fate. Jian Mingshu watched Song Qingzhao playing the qin and felt envious, unsure whether she had learned before. Song Qingzhao said that if she had learned, her body would remember. When Jian Mingshu sat down, she discovered that she indeed knew how to play.

Seeing this, Lu Chang recalled how Jian Mingshu had once come to him with a qin, sincerely seeking guidance. Only now did he realize that she had truly wanted to learn, not just to find an excuse to see him. Lu Chang quickly offered to teach her himself if she wished to learn. Not wanting to marry, Yin Shujun secretly swapped her birth document.

The next day, she presented herself confidently before the noble consort’s attendants, relieving Grand Tutor Yin’s worries. Jian Mingshu accidentally fell into the water, and after Lu Chang rescued her, he asked Song Qingzhao to investigate. While the nobles and Yin family parents were gathered, Yin Liangjun deliberately suggested that it was Yin Shujun seeking revenge on Jian Mingshu. When Jian Mingshu woke up, she told Lu Chang that she had remembered some things, but the details were still unclear.

Lu Chang didn’t want her to stay at the Yin residence any longer and treated it as a mere accident. However, Song Qingzhao found that the bridge surface had been coated with tung oil. Song Qingzhao admitted that he had come to investigate Yin Shujun’s character, but Jian Mingshu insisted on believing in her. Yin Shujun denied any involvement, but despite her denials, the evidence was undeniable. Furious, Grand Tutor Yin punished her with kneeling under family law.

The news that Yin Shujun had plotted against Jian Mingshu spread quickly, even being turned into storybooks. When the matter reached the ears of Noble Consort Hua, she refused to let Prince Rui proceed with marrying Yin Shujun. Although Prince Rui needed the Yin family’s support, the Yin family had more than one daughter.

Episode 6 Recap

The Noble Consort decided to arrange a marriage alliance with another daughter of the Yin family. Madam Yin worried that Yin Shujun would have difficulty marrying in the future. Moreover, how could they ensure fairness if they replaced the candidate? How should Yin Liangjun and Yin Xianjun be chosen between? The Grand Preceptor Yin believed Yin Liangjun should be selected, as she had always been dignified and virtuous.

If Yin Liangjun was to be married off, as the elder sister, Yin Shujun must quickly marry as well. The Grand Preceptor Yin instructed Madam Yin to find a marriage match for her as soon as possible, preferably far from the capital to avoid further trouble. The next day, Madam Yin summoned Jian Mingshu, handed her the monthly allowance she had previously promised, and admitted she had no other solution at this point.

However, Jian Mingshu was unwilling to just leave. She believed the one who harmed her was not Yin Shujun. Jian Mingshu decided to stay at the Yin household and continue investigating. With so much silver laid before her, Jian Mingshu was inevitably tempted and regretted it deeply in front of Lu Chang and Song Qingzhao. Although Yin Shujun had not treated Jian Mingshu well, Jian Mingshu believed in her upbringing.

Moreover, the previous rumors had all been spread without anyone witnessing anything firsthand. If she left, who would speak up for her? Women had a hard enough life as it was and must support each other. Lu Chang recalled how Jian Mingshu had managed her family alone after her mother's death, and he saw the similarity between her and Yin Shujun, who was also suffering. Thus, he decided to help her investigate to the end.

A matchmaker came to the Yin family proposing marriage, but the suitor was seeking a concubine and was already over forty years old. Furious, Madam Yin drove the matchmaker out. Hearing that the marriage alliance candidate had been changed to Yin Liangjun, Yin Shujun felt relieved, but in the household, everyone except Jian Mingshu mocked her for bringing misfortune upon herself. Yin Shujun was puzzled to hear that Jian Mingshu had not left.

When Jian Mingshu came to see her, she had already met with Shuangyan and learned that Yin Shujun had secretly switched her birth information. Jian Mingshu straightforwardly asked if she already had someone she loved—someone named Jiang Wenrui. Jian Mingshu produced a sachet embroidered with the character Rui, which Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang had found earlier.

Jian Mingshu continued to scare her, saying that although she was free from the arranged marriage, she now had to marry before Yin Liangjun, and it was rumored she would have to become the concubine of a forty-year-old man. Madam Yin’s third wife met with Yin Liangjun. Even though the marriage alliance candidate was now her daughter, neither Yin Xianjun nor the third wife minded.

Yin Shujun confided to Jian Mingshu that she and Jiang Wenrui had fallen in love, but when the marriage alliance matter arose, she neither clarified nor stopped the rumors, hoping to avoid the alliance. Yin Shujun begged Jian Mingshu to help inform Jiang Wenrui to come propose marriage quickly. After hearing the truth, Song Qingzhao decided to report honestly to Prince Rui, but Jian Mingshu quickly stopped him.

Although Yin Shujun's actions were improper, as a fellow woman, Jian Mingshu could understand her behavior. Lu Chang recalled Jian Mingshu's own desperate search for a husband back then, realizing that she too had once been cornered. At Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang’s request, Song Qingzhao agreed to delay reporting to Prince Rui, but time was running short for their investigation. Song Qingzhao brought Jiang Wenrui to meet Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang.

Jian Mingshu presented a handwritten letter from Yin Shujun asking him to propose. However, Jiang Wenrui used her ruined reputation as an excuse and was even secretly arranging marriage talks with another family. Angrily, he turned to leave, only to find Yin Shujun standing at the door, having overheard his betrayal. Heartbroken, Yin Shujun walked away, while Jian Mingshu, Song Qingzhao, and Lu Chang were all indignant. Back at the residence, Yin Shujun fell into utter despair.

Her reputation was now completely ruined, and she even considered suicide. Jian Mingshu quickly snatched the knife from her hands and reminded her that someone was manipulating everything behind the scenes. They must uncover the truth and find the real culprit. After a long conversation with Yin Shujun, Jian Mingshu returned to her room, where Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang were shocked to see she was injured.

Jian Mingshu noticed a maid washing shoes stained with tung oil—shoes that belonged to Yin Liangjun’s maid. Yin Xianjun told Jian Mingshu that Yin Liangjun had visited her courtyard that day, using the excuse of borrowing a hand warmer. They began to suspect that Yin Liangjun had orchestrated everything to steal the marriage alliance that Yin Shujun no longer wanted. Song Qingzhao brought Lu Chang to meet Prince Rui.

At that time, Prince Rui was engrossed in a chess problem he could not solve. Lu Chang seized the opportunity to recommend himself. Their purpose in coming was to request that the marriage alliance be postponed so they could investigate thoroughly. Prince Rui, who was implementing new policies and was evidently a wise man, agreed to delay the marriage alliance after hearing Lu Chang’s well-argued case. With the imperial examinations approaching, Prince Rui placed high expectations on Lu Chang.

Jian Mingshu specially thanked Lu Chang for this matter; though he appeared cold, he was truly a caring elder brother. Yin Xianjun told Yin Liangjun that the Noble Consort still favored Yin Shujun and wanted to continue discussing a marriage alliance with her. Yin Liangjun was filled with hatred and even suspected that Lu Chang and Yin Shujun had an illicit relationship.

Little did she know that Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang had deliberately created this false impression to attract attention. Yin Xianjun, thinking she had uncovered a scandal, planned to expose them during the formal betrothal ceremony the next day. Meanwhile, Yin Shujun was tending to flowers in her room when she suddenly fainted. At the same time, Lu Chang received news that Jian Mingshu had been injured in the study. He rushed anxiously to the greenhouse, but just as he arrived, the door was slammed shut behind him, and he too began to lose consciousness.

Episode 7 Recap

After the noble figures in the palace discussed the betrothal ceremony, they were about to leave when the Third Lady of the Yin family arrived, saying that Yin Liangjun had brought some exotic flowers from the Western Regions and invited everyone to view them. The crowd bustled over to the flower house, only to see Yin Shujun and Lu Chang lying on a bed together, while Yin Liangjun put on a show of astonishment.

Censor Yin’s face darkened with anger, but at that moment, Yin Shujun appeared from outside the room, stunning everyone present. It turned out that the person lying on the couch was not Yin Shujun, but Jian Mingshu dressed in her clothes. Today's event was a scheme devised by Jian Mingshu to clear Yin Shujun’s name, and the person who had painstakingly lured everyone to the flower house was the real culprit.

Yin Liangjun hurriedly denied it, but Jian Mingshu exposed her for stealing tung oil and spilling it on the shoes. In a moment of panic, Yin Liangjun blurted out that she had already buried the shoes that day! Seeing her true nature revealed, Yin Liangjun gave up pretending. She claimed that she had never been inferior to Yin Shujun since childhood, only lacking parental support. Lu Chang continued, saying that although they had been framed, they had long been prepared.

He hinted that Censor Yin could summon the imperial physicians to check if there were substances causing dizziness in the flower house. The physician’s diagnosis made Yin Liangjun panic, but she still refused to admit guilt. At that moment, it was discovered that dizzying substances were found in Yin Xianjun’s room. Jian Mingshu pointed out that the substances were placed by Yin Xianjun, who had originally sought her help to enter the mansion, intending to use her as an accomplice.

Yin Xianjun stubbornly denied it, but Song Qingzhao brought over Qiutong, the maid from the Third Lady’s side, who had been bribed to spread rumors about Yin Shujun. Seeing her mother implicated, Yin Xianjun finally knelt down and confessed. She admitted that she had always been a quiet and unnoticed member of the Yin family and only wanted to find a better future for herself.

Grand Preceptor Yin, who had been recuperating at a separate estate, rushed over to preside over the matter. The palace nobles and Lu Chang tactfully withdrew to give way. Yin Liangjun admitted her fault to her grandfather, while Yin Xianjun couldn’t help but vent her grievances, saying she only wanted to be someone cherished and held high by the family.

Grandfather told her that the arranged marriage was merely a political strategy, and even a legitimate daughter would face difficulties in such an alliance. Censor Yin explained that they had always hoped to find suitable matches for the two girls, not to hastily marry them off. Grandfather decided to send them to the ancestral hall according to family rules, but Yin Shujun pleaded for her sisters, resulting in a lighter punishment.

After the matter was settled, Grand Preceptor Yin left, and Lu Chang deliberately waited for him on the roadside. The First Lady of the Yin family sincerely thanked Jian Mingshu and then asked whether Yin Shujun had someone she liked, given her swapping of the horoscope note. Yin Shujun quickly admitted her fault for not clarifying the rumors and bringing shame to the family. However, Censor Yin did not blame her.

They finally realized that they had never respected Yin Shujun’s feelings, and Censor Yin no longer wished to sacrifice his daughter's happiness for political gains. Unexpectedly, Yin Shujun announced she was willing to marry Prince Rui. Although she did not know him well, she believed that since he was still willing to marry her under such circumstances, he must be a man of broad heart. Thus, the marriage was decided.

Lu Chang later sought Grand Preceptor Yin, hoping to overturn his teacher's old case. Grand Preceptor Yin hinted that he could start investigating from Liu Xiankun’s associates. Having witnessed the hardships of impoverished women struggling for survival and seen merchant women fall from glory overnight, Lu Chang finally understood that women in the world could never truly step out of confinement and pursue themselves freely. Jian Mingshu finally left the Yin family and returned home.

Lu Chang had tidied her room in advance. Although Jian Mingshu loved it, she still felt uneasy, always wondering about her past self. But whether past or present, she told herself, "I am who I am. "Lu Chang said that no matter what she wanted to do in the future, he would support her and do everything he could to ensure her a lifetime of peace and happiness.

Jian Mingshu also promised that whether he rose to high ranks or fell into hardship, she would always stand by him and give him strength. Lu Chang felt even more that his previous judgment had indeed been poor. Song Qingzhao arrived with a heap of gifts. Aunt Zeng invited him to stay for lunch, during which Jian Mingshu kept serving him food, making Lu Chang increasingly restless. Song Qingzhao commented that he envied the way the siblings got along.

Lu Chang, with a hint of mischief, suggested that Jian Mingshu recognize Song Qingzhao as her sworn brother, which made Song Qingzhao’s face stiffen in refusal. Aunt Zeng could tell that Song Qingzhao had feelings for Jian Mingshu, but Lu Chang thought that marrying into a noble family like the Song family might be difficult, and that waiting for him to enter officialdom would be a more secure choice. Yin Shujun brought many gifts to thank Jian Mingshu.

Although she was sincerely grateful, she still looked proud, behaving like a typical noble lady even when making friends. Upon hearing that Jian Mingshu planned to open a shop, Yin Shujun readily offered her support. After Liu Xiankun’s son disappeared without a trace, his adopted daughter became a popular dancer and was even taken into the Lu family residence. Lu Wencai became entangled with Liu Yuanying, but Liu Yuanying greatly despised him. While Jian Mingshu was racking her brain for a good shop name, Lu Chang suggested the name "Hualang Pavilion" for her.

Episode 8 Recap

Lu Chang and Song Qingzhao went together to meet Prince Rui. Lu Chang deliberately brought up the wedding date. After leaving the Yin residence, he had asked a friend to investigate and discovered that someone else was behind the scenes pushing Yin Xianjun to fight for the marriage alliance. It turned out to be Yin Xianjun’s aunt, the biological sister of Tian Chongjun, the current Inspectorate Censor. However, Yin Xianjun was likely unaware of this connection.

Tian Chongjun was affiliated with Prince Yu, and now that Prince Yu was meddling in Prince Rui's marriage matters, it showed his scheming nature. Lu Chang hoped that Prince Rui would help, but Prince Rui spoke first—he had already investigated Lu Chang and naturally knew what he was after. However, to reopen the case, there needed to be sufficient grounds, and whether it would succeed would depend on Lu Chang's own abilities.

On the way back, Song Qingzhao started to recall how Lu Chang had looked while discussing political affairs. Surprisingly, when talking politics with them just now, Song Qingzhao no longer felt bored. Jian Mingshu saw Lu Chang looking troubled and asked him what he was thinking. Lu Chang mentioned Mr. Su, who was not only his mentor but also like a loving father.

Ying Xun rushed over at night, having found out that the Lu family was planning a banquet for officials from the Ministry of Rites, with an impressive scale. It was said that they had even invited a couple of folk performers. Lu Chang decided to disguise himself as a performer to infiltrate the Lu residence, but he would also need a young lady of similar age to pretend to be his wife.

Jian Mingshu silently raised her head beside him, but Lu Chang firmly refused to pretend to be a married couple with her, leaving no room for discussion. Yin Shujun arranged a meeting with Prince Rui to express her gratitude. Previously, when she was entangled in rumors, Prince Rui still insisted on marrying her, and Yin Shujun was deeply thankful. Prince Rui stubbornly claimed that he minded as well, but he had no choice because of the marriage alliance.

Yin Shujun immediately responded that this suited her perfectly; however, she would still fulfill all the duties expected of a princess consort, just without true affection between them. Yin Shujun said that after marriage, she did not wish to stay at the residence every day and wanted to run a jewelry shop with her friends. Prince Rui stated that as long as she fulfilled her responsibilities, he would turn a blind eye. After thanking him, Yin Shujun left.

Ying Xun found a woman named Peach Blossom to pretend to be Lu Chang’s wife. To assist Lu Chang, Jian Mingshu practiced dancing diligently at home. She almost fell during practice, but Lu Chang caught her waist in time. Lu Chang could not bear Peach Blossom’s pretentiousness, so he ultimately chose Jian Mingshu instead. However, he was startled into spitting out his tea when she called him "my lord" during practice.

Disguised as folk performers, Lu Chang and Jian Mingshu entered the Lu residence but were questioned and asked to perform. Jian Mingshu's initial dance was not very graceful, but with Lu Chang’s encouragement, she eventually amazed everyone. That night, the two were arranged to stay in the same room. Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang argued endlessly over who should sleep on the floor.

Suddenly, someone entered to deliver something, and Lu Chang hurriedly covered Jian Mingshu with a quilt in fright. The next day, Lu Chang deliberately approached Liu Yuanying, but she was too guarded, and he could not extract any useful information. Jian Mingshu suggested that she should be the one to get close to Liu Yuanying, as it would be easier between women.

Yelong thought Lu Chang had fallen for Liu Yuanying and secretly told him that Liu Yuanying and Lu Wencai already had an affair. That night, Lu Chang and Jian Mingshu saw Lu Wencai coming out of Liu Yuanying’s room, gifting her a bracelet. However, Liu Yuanying immediately gave the bracelet to a maid. The maid Ziyun, who stayed close to Liu Yuanying, often secretly glanced at Lu Chang.

Jian Mingshu decided to distract Ziyun with a "handsome man trap" to approach Liu Yuanying herself. However, Liu Yuanying, wary as ever, recognized that Jian Mingshu was not Mu Qing and questioned her intentions. Jian Mingshu quickly made up a story, saying "Mu Qing" was a name used by her senior brother, not a single person, and tried to build rapport with her as a fellow dancer, hoping Liu Yuanying would keep the secret.

As Jian Mingshu babbled on about Liu Yuanying, Lu Chang peeled longans for her by her side. Madam Wang Xiuyun, wife of Lu Wencai, desperately wished to earn his affection, but Lu Wencai despised her for her aging looks. Her maid said that Lu Wencai’s indifference was because the dancer Liu Yuanying had bewitched him. Furious, Wang Xiuyun decided to teach Liu Yuanying a harsh lesson.

The Lu family was holding a spring banquet, and Song Qingzhao’s mother brought him to attend, also hoping to find him a suitable match. Lu Ruisan, the third daughter of the Lu family, had long been fond of Song Qingzhao, and the Lu family was eager to establish this marriage.

Wang Xiuyun deliberately damaged a hairpin bestowed by the imperial concubine and arranged for it to be given to Liu Yuanying, who was supposed to wear it while leading the dance at the banquet. When Liu Yuanying opened the package and saw the broken ornament, she was shocked. Jian Mingshu immediately realized that this was clearly a setup by Wang Xiuyun. Determined to help Liu Yuanying, Jian Mingshu decided to repair the ornament before the dance performance. Just as Jian Mingshu finished fixing the accessory and was about to deliver it to Liu Yuanying, she was intercepted by the lecherous Lu Wencai.

Episode 9 Recap

Jian Mingshu, in a hurry to deliver the hairpin, was held up by Lu Wencai. At that moment, Liu Yuanying was about to go on stage and grew anxious when she didn’t show up. To buy time, Lu Chang went on stage and began playing the qin, drawing the guests’ attention. Just as Jian Mingshu struggled to free herself, Song Qingzhao arrived and distracted Lu Wencai, allowing Jian Mingshu to escape and deliver the hairpin to Liu Yuanying.

After Lu Chang finished his piece and left the stage, Liu Yuanying’s performance proceeded smoothly. However, after the performance, Yerong, jealous of Liu Yuanying stealing the spotlight, accused her of seducing Lu Wencai. Jian Mingshu, growing anxious, added fuel to the fire, saying that as fellow women they should sympathize with each other. She pointed out that Liu Yuanying had no choice—knowing what kind of person Lu Wencai was, she shouldn’t be blamed for circumstances she couldn’t change.

Wang Xiuyun, who had come to confront her, overheard this and suddenly saw things clearly, choosing not to show up. In private, Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang met with Song Qingzhao and explained that they were posing as a pair of street performers. Liu Yuanying passed by and saw Song Qingzhao chatting animatedly with Jian Mingshu. She noticed that Lu Chang seemed upset, though Jian Mingshu didn’t seem to notice at all. Liu Yuanying later privately thanked Jian Mingshu.

Jian Mingshu couldn’t understand why she would subject herself to Lu Wencai. Liu Yuanying, full of sorrow, explained her helplessness due to her lowborn background. It turned out Lu Wencai was using her younger brother’s jade pendant to threaten her. Although Liu Yuanying had never met her brother, she had no choice but to believe it. Liu Yuanying also warned Jian Mingshu not to get too close to Song Qingzhao to avoid making Lu Chang jealous.

Jian Mingshu awkwardly replied that he wouldn’t. Madam Song grew anxious because of the banquet at the Lu residence, worried that Song Qingzhao might fall for the frivolous Third Miss Lu. Song Qingzhao came to greet his parents and even said he wanted to discuss politics with his father, suddenly appearing much more mature, which greatly shocked them.

But the reason for Song Qingzhao’s behavior was to seem mature enough so he could leave the house to help Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang. Wang Xiuyun recalled what Jian Mingshu had said earlier and felt deeply moved. Just then, Lu Wencai suddenly came to scold her, making Wang Xiuyun think that Liu Yuanying had tattled.

She had married Lu Wencai for some time now—he was greedy and lecherous, but her family insisted on the marriage, and there was nothing she could do. Lu Wencai once again set his eyes on Jian Mingshu and even started getting handsy. Lu Chang couldn’t bear it and struck him. Lu Wencai, furious, said he would settle the score after the banquet. Lu Chang got injured, so Jian Mingshu told him to sleep on the bed that night.

The two ended up sharing a bed. Liu Yuanying assumed that Song Qingzhao was Jian Mingshu’s childhood sweetheart and even imagined a melodramatic backstory. To protect her cover, Jian Mingshu had to nod and smile. Song Qingzhao visited the Lu residence again, longing to see Jian Mingshu. In his rush, he saw Jian Mingshu feeding Lu Chang and felt a twinge of sourness in his heart.

Jian Mingshu got along well with Liu Yuanying, but she still avoided the topic of Liu Xiankun. Lu Chang thought the most important thing now was to confirm that Liu Yuanying’s brother was safe and to make her realize how dangerous her current situation was—only they could help her. Lu Chang planned to use the Enyin Banquet to have Liu Yuanying testify against Lu Wencai, achieving two goals at once.

Since Liu Yuanying was very guarded, Jian Mingshu suggested making her believe that Song Qingzhao had deep feelings for her and was willing to do anything for her—that might convince her. Song Qingzhao readily agreed, and though reluctantly, Lu Chang agreed as well. Jian Mingshu and Song Qingzhao staged a scene in front of Liu Yuanying, with Song Qingzhao massaging her injured foot. Liu Yuanying hurriedly tried to stop Lu Chang from seeing this.

Lu Chang barged in and acted out a scene of fighting over his wife with Song Qingzhao. As the act went on, emotions started to feel real. After Song Qingzhao left, Lu Chang saw that Jian Mingshu was truly injured and grew anxious. He didn’t want her to get hurt and wanted to send her away, but to Jian Mingshu, Lu Chang was the most important person—she was willing to do all this for him.

Episode 10 Recap

Jian Mingshu had been feeling a little strange about her emotions toward Lu Chang recently. In a dream, she saw the back of a man, and when she awoke, she realized the clothes were identical to Lu Chang's. That night, Lu Wencai eagerly sought out Liu Yuanying. According to Lu Chang’s plan, Liu Yuanying drugged him with a sleeping potion that would leave him half-conscious and likely to speak the truth, and indeed, when he woke up, he remembered nothing.

Song Qingzhao made a special trip to bring Jian Mingshu some pastries, explaining that what he said the other day was not an act. If he truly admired someone, he would never change his mind because of her background. Before he could express his feelings, Lu Chang arrived. Liu Yuanying decided to cooperate with their plan and drugged Lu Wencai as instructed. She learned that the jade pendant belonging to her brother had been found by Lu Wencai elsewhere.

As for her brother’s whereabouts, he had no clear answer. Realizing she had been deceived, Liu Yuanying was filled with hatred. Lu Chang and Jian Mingshu then revealed their true identities and purpose. It turned out that Liu Yuanying’s father had likely been coerced into falsely accusing their teacher. Liu Yuanying told them that she and her brother had lived in their hometown since childhood.

A year ago, they were suddenly kidnapped and threatened with their lives to force Liu Xiangui to do something, although she was unsure what exactly. In hindsight, it must have been the false accusation against Mr. Su. At the Enyin Banquet, Song Qingzhao took his seat and deliberately brought up Liu Yuanying. Unexpectedly, the first performance turned out to be by Jian Mingshu and Lu Chang. Jian Mingshu’s dancing had improved remarkably after recent training, and Song Qingzhao was mesmerized.

Next came Liu Yuanying’s flying dance, which earned applause from all the noble guests. However, her monologue began to sound increasingly off. Through her dance, Liu Yuanying revealed the scars on her body, shocking everyone present. Song Qingzhao called for an investigation and a formal report, pointing out that Liu Yuanying was a government courtesan, and if not investigated, the Lu family would be shirking their responsibility. Cornered, the Lu family asked Liu Yuanying to tell the truth.

Liu Yuanying accused Lu Wencai of seizing her by force and even described a birthmark on his private area with precision. Lu Wencai vehemently denied it and calmly asked Wang Xiuyun to testify for him—only to be blindsided when Wang Xiuyun confirmed Liu Yuanying’s claims in detail, stunning the crowd. Jian Mingshu then further exposed that Xiangyun had also been assaulted by Lu Wencai. Wang Xiuyun testified that he had been forcibly taking women for years and demanded a divorce!

Minister Lu was horrified. Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang worked in tandem, calling for Minister Lu to handle the matter strictly according to the law, declaring that someone like Lu Wencai who knowingly broke the law should not be allowed to hold office. It turned out that Wang Xiuyun, upon learning that Jian Mingshu had been inquiring about Lu Wencai’s character, had brought the evidence herself to help expose him on the spot.

Liu Yuanying and Jian Mingshu were immensely grateful to her. Wang Xiuyun expressed her wish to one day break free from it all. With his path to advancement gone, Lu Wencai lashed out and said he wanted to divorce Wang Xiuyun. Minister Lu furiously demanded that he keep Wang Xiuyun, or return to the ancestral home and live out the rest of his life in disgrace.

Only then did Lu Wencai lower himself and plead with Wang Xiuyun not to leave, promising to let her manage all affairs in the household as long as she didn’t divorce him. Wang Xiuyun demanded he transfer all his property to her name and write a letter of repentance. Lu Wencai agreed to everything. Even so, Wang Xiuyun was disheartened. Her father had seen everything clearly yet still wrote to warn her to act with propriety and not be willful.

If she insisted on divorcing, she might never have a place in the family again. Therefore, Wang Xiuyun chose not to divorce but resolved to live her life well—on her own. Jian Mingshu began preparing to open her own jewelry shop. When Wang Xiuyun passed by and saw it, she was filled with envy—Jian Mingshu could choose the life she wanted. Jian Mingshu encouraged her, saying she could too. Life wasn’t meant to be about suffering.

Enlightened, Wang Xiuyun decided to seriously think about what she truly wanted. Aunt Zeng had extraordinary embroidery skills but had spent years taking on small jobs in the courtyard, clearly underutilized. Jian Mingshu hoped she could evaluate embroidered works for Hualang Pavilion. She deeply appreciated Aunt Zeng’s craftsmanship. So many women in the capital were trapped in inner chambers—she wanted the world to see their skills. Jian Mingshu went to ask Lu Chang for help writing the signboard for Hualang Pavilion.

Lu Chang thought that, as the shop owner, she should write it herself. He then guided her hand, stroke by stroke, to write the name. Without realizing it, both of them felt something stirring in their hearts. Yin Shujun heard about Liu Yuanying’s situation and thought she could take on commissions to help women with their problems. Jian Mingshu immediately agreed with the idea. However, there was still one more thing Jian Mingshu wanted to ask Yin Shujun.

In the courtyard, Song Qingzhao had set up a bell that would ring when his father arrived. One day, Minister Song came and was astonished to find Song Qingzhao reading and writing diligently. Jian Mingshu confided in Yin Shujun about her feelings for Lu Chang. Yin Shujun said it was perfectly normal—after all, she had lost her memory, and to her, Lu Chang was no different than he would be to any other woman.

Liu Yuanying suddenly came to Jian Mingshu with a memory—she recalled that the owner of Jian’s Gold Shop had once approached Liu Xiangui and scolded him severely. Though she lived in the pleasure quarters, Liu Yuanying was willing to contribute to Jian Mingshu’s women’s society, and Jian Mingshu was naturally more than happy to accept. In Yin Shujun’s garden, Jian Mingshu saw bamboo, and after returning home, she sketched it down.

Episode 11 Recap

Today is the grand opening of Hualang Pavilion. Song Qingzhao brought many gifts to offer his congratulations, and Lu Chang also gathered a few items. Coincidentally, both of them brought a feng shui stone. Jian Mingshu found it hard to decide which one to display. To remain neutral, she decided to place Lu Chang’s stone in the shop and Song Qingzhao’s in her room.

Hualang Pavilion officially opened today and, being a women’s society, was very well received on its first day. Jian Mingshu designed the layout to be quiet and clever. Aunt Zeng also found her own space within the shop. Song Qingzhao accidentally opened a painting of bamboo drawn by Jian Mingshu and assumed that she also liked bamboo. Seeing this, Liu Yuanying was even more convinced that Song Qingzhao had feelings for Jian Mingshu.

Lu Chang had been watching from the side for a long time and was just about to speak to Jian Mingshu when she was called upstairs to help. However, her whereabouts were also discovered by the assassins, who intended to eliminate her completely. Jian Mingshu was so busy her mouth was dry, so Song Qingzhao took the initiative to answer customer inquiries for her, making Lu Chang even more frustrated.

To help Jian Mingshu, Lu Chang took care of the customers’ children so the women could have time to shop, though he found it quite overwhelming. Song Qingzhao, busy picking out jewelry for his lady, later asked Jian Mingshu to customize a hibiscus hairpin. When Jian Mingshu glanced over at Lu Chang, she saw that he had already calmed the children down.

Jian Mingshu had dreamt many times of a man whose clothing was embroidered with bamboo patterns, but she could never clearly see his face. She had always believed that man was Lu Chang. However, today she saw Song Qingzhao waiting for her in the courtyard, and his robe had the exact same bamboo embroidery.

It turned out that Song Qingzhao had seen the bamboo painting by Jian Mingshu on opening day and, finding it elegant, had the bamboo design embroidered on his clothing. Jian Mingshu ran back to her room in a panic—it turned out that the man from her dreams was Song Qingzhao, not Lu Chang. She had been mistaken. Lu Chang stared at Song Qingzhao’s clothes, gritting his teeth. Aunt Zeng called everyone to breakfast.

Ying Xun also came, and with a glance from Lu Chang, ended up sitting next to Song Qingzhao. Unexpectedly, Jian Mingshu dramatically insisted on switching seats with him so she could sit beside Song Qingzhao. She spoke in an affected voice and even called his name. Jian Mingshu told Lu Chang about Jian Jinhai. Lu Chang said he had already looked into it and found nothing of concern.

Aunt Zeng saw things clearly—Lu Chang didn’t like seeing Jian Mingshu and Song Qingzhao together. She reminded Lu Chang not to let his feelings show and to remember his origins. Jian Mingshu told Ying Xun that she seemed to have fallen for Song Qingzhao. Ying Xun advised her to guard her heart and to love openly and confidently. When Jian Mingshu got up the next morning, she found that Lu Chang had already returned to the academy.

He left behind a letter saying he had given her the heirlooms passed down in her family. But when she saw the jewelry, Jian Mingshu found them oddly familiar. Back at the academy, Lu Chang couldn’t stop thinking about Jian Mingshu. It seemed he was finding it harder and harder to let her go. To clear his mind, he went to the garden to read. Yin Shujun’s arranged marriage with Prince Rui was imminent.

Madam Yin was worried about her daughter. Although it was a political marriage, she still hoped her daughter’s future would be harmonious. At the appointed time, Yin Shujun bid farewell to her parents and entered the royal residence. On the wedding night, Yin Shujun sat alone in the room for a long time, but Prince Rui didn’t come. He was still in the study, saying he wanted to keep her waiting for a bit.

But to give an account to the Noble Consort and the palace, he eventually went. When Yin Shujun heard he had arrived, she was nervous and drank some wine to calm herself. Sitting on the bed with a fan in hand, Yin Shujun waited. Seeing that she had already drunk the nuptial wine, Prince Rui didn’t insist on the fan ceremony and asked her to put the fan down herself. Prince Rui said he was only there for appearances tonight. Hearing this, Yin Shujun was delighted. She quietly took off her jewelry and outer robe and went to sleep, leaving Prince Rui somewhat puzzled.

Episode 12 Recap

Yin Shujun had a peaceful night’s sleep and woke to find that Prince Rui had already gone to court. To her, the ceremonial completion wasn’t important—as long as she played her role well, that was enough. At Songling Academy, Lu Chang grabbed Lu Wencai by the collar, but Lu Chang easily reversed it and caught him instead. Lu Wencai was furious but was fiercely taught a lesson by Lu Chang.

Jian Mingshu and Liu Yuanying specially congratulated Yin Shujun and Prince Rui on their marriage, presenting them with a pair of finely crafted bracelets as a wedding gift. However, Princess Wen’an didn’t quite trust Jian Mingshu. Yin Shujun quickly introduced her as a close friend, saying she had come with a request. Princess Wen’an wanted Jian Mingshu’s help in investigating someone.

It turned out that Princess Wen’an was troubled about her engagement—her family had arranged it three years ago to a man named Xie Xu. He was gentle, upright, and treated her well. Everyone thought there was no problem, but she felt something was off. Since last year, Princess Wen’an had felt that something about Xie Xu had changed. She suspected he no longer loved her and didn’t want to marry someone who didn’t love her.

Jian Mingshu understood her feelings and agreed to help. After all, it was better to uncover the truth before marriage than to regret it afterward. Xie Xu would be attending the wine-tasting banquet the next day, which Jian Mingshu would also attend. Princess Wen’an would arrange for them to meet.

Song Qingzhao decided to help Lu Chang display his talents at the wine-tasting banquet, hoping that rising fame in the capital would make it easier for him to get along with Jian Mingshu in the future. Ying Xun advised Lu Chang not to indulge Jian Mingshu in liking someone else. But Lu Chang replied that as long as she was happy, that was enough for him. Seeing the bamboo embroidery on Song Qingzhao’s cuff made Lu Chang feel even worse.

Song Qingzhao encouraged him to seize the opportunity and become a favored son-in-law among the noble ladies, but Lu Chang said he was only there to join in the fun with Jian Mingshu. Jian Mingshu was especially stunning today, and both Song Qingzhao and Lu Chang praised her without hesitation. At the wine-tasting event, Song Qingzhao was immediately noticed by many ladies upon arrival. Lu Chang was pulled into a small shop to taste wine.

When Xie Xu arrived, he drew the attention of the young men present. He was a top candidate in this year’s imperial exam and widely seen as a perfect match for Princess Wen’an. Song Qingzhao was also surrounded by merchants. Jian Mingshu, annoyed by their flattery, walked over to Lu Chang’s side. Lu Chang, enjoying a pleasant conversation with an elderly gentleman, consoled her and told her not to dwell on it.

When the tasting began, Jian Mingshu took a liking to a golden goblet and casually remarked that if she won, she’d take it back to Hualang Pavilion. Xie Xu was the first to take the stage. Song Qingzhao matched his poem, but Lu Chang didn’t care for such fame. Jian Mingshu hoped he would step up and bring honor to the humble scholars.

Only then did Lu Chang take the stage—his brilliance was unmatched, even Song Qingzhao couldn’t match his lines. Lu Chang won the top prize of the day and chose the wine from the old gentleman’s shop. Seeing Lu Chang’s display of talent, Song Qingzhao was genuinely happy. Lu Chang gifted the golden goblet to Jian Mingshu, asking her to take it back to Hualang Pavilion.

Jian Mingshu was taken by Princess Wen’an’s maid to a private room, where she saw Xie Xu and Princess Wen’an interact intimately yet appropriately. Xie Xu was so flawless it seemed unnatural, almost like he was acting. But Princess Wen’an had investigated him for over six months without finding a single flaw—except she hadn’t looked into the academy.

Lu Chang was coaxed into drinking a few cups and was drunkenly escorted back to the academy by Song Qingzhao, still muttering about wanting to take Jian Mingshu home. Seeing the bamboo on Song Qingzhao’s cuff, Lu Chang suddenly found the strength to tear it off and hold it tightly in his arms, repeatedly insisting it was his. Jian Mingshu decided to enter the academy to investigate Xie Xu.

Not wanting to trouble Lu Chang, she went to Song Qingzhao and offered to be his study attendant. Without hesitation, Song Qingzhao agreed. Disguised as Song Qingzhao’s study boy, Jian Mingshu entered the academy. Song Qingzhao even found a book of jewelry designs to give her, making Jian Mingshu feel he was the most gentle and thoughtful man in the world. Song Qingzhao’s hand accidentally brushed against Jian Mingshu’s, and he kept thinking about that moment even during lessons.

After class, Jian Mingshu followed Xie Xu and saw him drying books in the sun—but the books were nothing unusual. Just after Xie Xu left, Lu Chang arrived. Jian Mingshu quickly hid behind the books with them in her arms.

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