Cry Me A River of Stars Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Cry Me A River of Stars Synopsis
In Biyun County, which is known as “Tian Xia Bu Ye Cheng”, the affectionate, brisk, and quirky girl A Fan and the handsome magistrate Tao Junran who is good at literary and martial, through a series of treacherous life encounters in a joyful daily life, finally recognizing their own wishes and being in love with their beloved ones.
Cry Me A River of Stars Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Eighteen years ago, Midland was suddenly attacked by Azureland, nearly leading to its downfall. General Tao Zhong of Midland died fighting on the battlefield, an event witnessed by his eight-year-old son, Tao Junran. After growing up, Tao Junran led an elite army to conquer Azureland. However, remnant Azurelander forces managed to sneak into Cloud County of Midland via its waterways, aiming to rebuild their power. Consequently, Tao Junran was ordered to Cloud County to apprehend these fleeing Azurelanders.
Cloud County was a vibrant "city that never sleeps" on the water, renowned for its pleasure boats. Among its prominent figures was Lian Qi, the county's wealthiest man, known as Lord Lotus. He built his empire from scratch, attracting countless matchmakers to his mansion. Yet, he was deeply enamored with A Fan, a poor fisher girl. A Fan was beautiful but came from a humble background, raised by a "fool" and never knowing her mother.
A peculiar trait about her was that she had been unable to shed tears since birth, leading some to suspect she had bewitched Lian Qi. Tao Junran, along with Cao Qing, uncovered evidence that Lian Qi was smuggling weapons. They immediately dispatched troops to search the area. During the search, Cao Qing confronted the suspects, identifying Azurelanders by their blue tears and warning that those who resisted would be killed.
Meanwhile, Lian Qi was publicly declaring his feelings for A Fan, creating a sensation. The local county magistrate, implicated in bribery from Lian Qi, confessed that a merchant boat was scheduled to depart Lake Ping that night, likely carrying the remaining weapons. Tao Junran ordered all water and land routes in Cloud County to be sealed to intercept the vessel.
Lian Qi had presented A Fan with a box of "fabricated tael," specially customized with the words "love" and "Fan" carved in a long-lost water language, promising to take her back to their "real home." A Fan, though not seeing Lian Qi as her type, considered the possibility, noting the tael was enough to support her and her father for years. She was puzzled when her "fool dad" surprisingly read the engraved words.
However, the very next day, the Dragon & Phoenix Pleasure Boat, owned by Lian Qi, caught fire. Lian Qi and a dance-hostess named Ruby were found burned to death in bed on the Phoenix boat. Tao Junran took personal charge of the investigation. He immediately seized all of Lian Qi's assets and continued the efforts to apprehend the hidden Azurelanders.
The former county magistrate, Li Wei, was dismissed for covering up Lian Qi's activities, and Tao Junran assumed the role of acting county magistrate. During this time, A Fan was accused by a woman of being Lian Qi's lover and having received a mysterious box from him. Tao Junran had A Fan arrested and brought to the dungeon on South Island for interrogation, along with her "fool dad."
During her interrogation, A Fan vehemently denied being an Azurelander and insisted she was an ordinary citizen. She clarified that she and Lian Qi had only become friends the night he died, asserting that his real lover had arrived later. She maintained she had never shed blue tears and, in fact, was unable to cry since childhood, even carrying an eye drop bottle for situations requiring tears.
When questioned about her relationship with Lian Qi, she explained that while he had given her the engraved fabricated tael, she had always refused his invitations for dinners or boat trips because she felt inadequate for someone of his status. She expressed sadness over his death but felt she had no right to grieve him. Tao Junran, despite finding no direct evidence linking A Fan to the case, believed her to be cunning yet flawless.
He ordered her release on bail, set at 100 tael, due to her "emotional connection" with Lian Qi. As A Fan and her father were penniless, Cao Qing, on Tao Junran's orders, confiscated all their meager belongings, including their fishing nets. A Fan protested that without her fishing nets, she would starve, but Cao Qing simply advised her to address her concerns with Tao Junran directly.
Tao Junran instructed Cao Qing to hold onto A Fan's confiscated possessions, predicting that her desperation would eventually expose her true motives. Cao Qing, who had been lurking in Cloud County for years, expressed a desire to return but was informed by Tao Junran that no one could leave until the Azurelander case was fully resolved. Left with nothing, A Fan was forced to dive into the dangerous Dragon Lake to catch Fortune Turtles to sell.
She could hold her breath underwater for half an hour. At the market, she tried to sell a seemingly "half-dead" Fortune Turtle, exaggerating its importance by claiming it brought favorable weather to Cloud County and was merely exhausted from its prayers. Tao Junran, observing her, bought the turtle for 300 tael, instructing his men to "keep it" rather than prepare it for cooking. With her newfound money, A Fan sought out Wen Qi to buy a boat.
She explained her desire to stop fishing, which was too tiring, and provide a better life for her father. She purchased the burned Dragon Boat section of Lian Qi's former Dragon & Phoenix Pleasure Boat for 200 tael, leaving her with 100 tael. She told her father that the boat's past did not define its future and that with renovations, it would become a good vessel.
Meanwhile, Cao Qing reported back to Tao Junran that despite their efforts to seal all water and land routes, Lian Qi's caravan and the remaining weapons were still missing. Tao Junran remained convinced that they were still hidden within Cloud County. He continued to monitor A Fan, who was now living on her newly acquired boat, still suspicious of her connection to the Azurelanders.
Episode 2 Recap
A Fan purchased the burned-down Dragon Boat, formerly part of the Dragon & Phoenix Pleasure Boat, for two hundred taels after it was sold for fifty as a "Piggy Boat." She then reopened it as the Springtime Pleasure Boat. At the newly reopened Springtime Pleasure Boat, A Fan, unaware of his true identity, hired a "priest" for a mere three taels to conduct an opening ceremony.
However, Tao Junran and Cao Qing arrived, immediately identifying the priest as an Azurelander and arresting him. Desperate to prove her innocence and no connection to the Azurelanders, A Fan tearfully pleaded with Tao Junran, clinging to his legs. She insisted she was wronged and had no idea the old man was an Azurelander, only hiring him because he was cheap. Tao Junran, though believing she had no direct involvement, noted that an Azurelander was found on her boat.
As a condition for her freedom, he ordered her to report her daily activities to the Tao Mansion. Later, Cao Qing spoke to Tao Junran, reminding him of his parents' death in battle due to Azurelander betrayal, and how he avenged them by personally slaying Situ Tian, the king of Westland. Tao Junran declared his intention to use his sword to protect the people from then on.
The next morning, A Fan arrived at the Tao Mansion with freshly caught fish, claiming they were the famous four-gilled perch from Biyun County. She then gave Tao Junran a painstakingly detailed account of her day, from tending to her father to buying a flatbread from Old Zhang's shop and her frustration over the lack of customers at her boat, which she attributed to her daily visits to the Tao Mansion.
Overwhelmed by her chatter, Tao Junran asked Cao Qing to take the fish and escort A Fan out. That night, A Fan secretly entered Tao Junran's study, determined to retrieve her "chiba". In her haste, she accidentally tripped Tao Junran. When he confronted her, she explained her presence by claiming she never left and was plagued by mosquitoes outside.
To keep her compliant, Tao Junran offered her a deal: if she agreed to undertake all cleaning duties at the Tao Mansion for ten days, he would release her. Though initially hesitant about her boat, she quickly accepted when he hinted at harsher alternatives. He immediately put her to work, ordering her to clean the study before going home. Later, several of Tao Junran's female admirers saw A Fan emerging from his study.
Believing her to be seducing their beloved Lord Tao, they angrily confronted her at her home, threatening to tear it down. A Fan, seeing an opportunity, leaned in and secretly promised them access to Tao Junran's personal items and information, claiming her cleaning duties would provide the perfect cover. She then proceeded to steal his calligraphy and, even bolder, took his measurements while he was bathing to create customized dolls, which she sold at exorbitant prices to his eager fans.
Cao Qing eventually discovered A Fan's schemes, presenting Tao Junran with evidence of her selling his "customized figures." Outraged, Tao Junran ordered Cao Qing to seal the Springtime Pleasure Boat and confiscate all of A Fan's illicit earnings. A Fan vehemently denied the accusations at first, but Cao Qing produced proof, including an illicitly replicated official seal, which was enough to send her to jail. Cao Qing explained that merely sealing her boat was a generous act.
Undeterred by the main entrance being barred, A Fan attempted to sneak into the Tao Mansion through a dog's hole, only to get stuck. Her father tried to pull her out, and Tao Junran's men soon discovered her predicament. Instead of anger, Tao Junran calmly instructed his men to enlarge the dog's hole to free her.
Still wedged, A Fan angrily confronted Tao Junran, accusing him of using his authority to retaliate against her because he suspected a romantic involvement between her and Lian Qi, which led to her boat's closure. Tao Junran firmly stated that his orders were final. Frustrated by her boat's closure and Tao Junran's unyielding stance, A Fan decided to defy surveillance. She cunningly evaded Cao Qing, who later reported her disappearance to Tao Junran.
Learning of her disappearance, Tao Junran rushed to find her. A Fan had been abducted by people sent by Lian Qi, and while in captivity, she bravely attempted to escape by faking a severe stomach ache. Tao Junran arrived just in time, engaging in a fierce fight with the abductors, who were identified as Azurelanders. He successfully rescued A Fan, who was visibly injured on her face.
Back at her home, A Fan's father expressed his concern about her facial injuries. As Tao Junran prepared to leave, A Fan stopped him, explaining the profound sentimental value of the "chiba" he had confiscated. It was the only item her mother had left her, and her father remembered nothing else about her mother. For A Fan, the "chiba" was a tangible link to her deceased mother, making her feel like she still had a maternal figure in her life.
She confessed that she shared this intimate detail because she believed it was the only way Tao Junran would trust her. Understanding its significance, Tao Junran promised to return the "chiba" the following day. A Fan also reaffirmed her innocence, stating she truly didn't know why the Azurelanders had abducted her and had no connection to them.
Episode 3 Recap
Tao Junran brought A Fan's "Uncle Fool" to a room, telling him it contained many characters he knew, and asked him to teach him. Uncle Fool initially wanted to find A Fan first, but Tao Junran insisted he wait there. During this time, Ruby suddenly appeared but was driven away by Tao Junran's men. Later, a subordinate reported to Tao Junran that he had seen Ruby, confirming it was indeed her despite only a brief glimpse.
This revelation made Tao Junran suspect that if Ruby was still alive, Lian Qi might also be. He immediately ordered his men to continue the investigation. On Qingming Festival, A Fan went to the outskirts to burn paper money for her ancestors, seeking to dispel her recent string of bad luck, including her disfigured face and struggling business. Her "Uncle Fool," who had been too afraid to stay home alone, joined her.
They overheard men digging what A Fan realized was Lian Qi's tomb and discussing two charred bodies that were hard to sell due to a lack of recent deaths. Realizing they were grave robbers, A Fan urged her father to find Tao Junran and report them. However, the grave robbers noticed A Fan. One of the robbers seized A Fan, threatening her that only the dead could keep secrets, and mentioned he was in need of female corpses.
Just then, Tao Junran and his guards arrived, apprehending the grave robbers. The culprits, begging for mercy, mistakenly believed Tao Junran was punishing them for harming A Fan, whom they thought was "his woman." Tao Junran clarified that their arrest was for illegally stealing and selling bodies, two of which were found in the yard. He then ordered Cao Qing to take them into custody for trial.
A Fan’s "Uncle Fool" emerged, dressed as a ghost, revealing Tao Junran had asked him to scare the robbers so he could participate. A Fan thanked Tao Junran, who playfully deflected the gratitude to her father. A Fan then informed Tao Junran that the desecrated grave belonged to Lian Qi. Tao Junran interrogated one of the grave robbers, later identified as Wu Daqiang, asking why he targeted Lian Qi’s tomb and if he was an accomplice.
Wu Daqiang maintained he only dug graves for profit to arrange ghost marriages and had no deeper connection to Lian Qi other than having sold him a male corpse previously. He pointed out that the burnt body found in the area had a specific skull injury, identical to the one he had sold to Lian Qi, suggesting it was the same body. Tao Junran promised a lenient sentence if this information proved true.
His subordinate confirmed that the damage on the recovered body matched Wu Daqiang's description. This, coupled with the earlier sighting of Ruby by his agent, confirmed Tao Junran's suspicion: Lian Qi was indeed still alive. A Fan's Springtime Pleasure Boat thrived with its new dishes, particularly an "Orange Crab" recipe praised by customers.
However, a rival boat owner, Xin Xin, arrived and publicly taunted A Fan for wearing a veil, implying A Fan was trying to hide a secret or her recipes. A Fan retorted, stating she was less selfish and willing to share her knowledge if Xin Xin genuinely wanted to learn. Xin Xin then deliberately tripped A Fan, exposing her face covered in pustules.
Xin Xin loudly declared that A Fan was suffering from a terrible, contagious illness, suggesting her pus might contaminate the food. This frightened the customers, causing them to leave in disgust. A Fan, denying any contagious illness, accused Xin Xin of malicious sabotage. When A Fan threatened to make Xin Xin "experience" her supposed illness, Tao Junran intervened. Xin Xin claimed she was merely protecting the public, but Tao Junran countered that A Fan’s "minor illness" was not infectious.
He accused Xin Xin of exaggerating and spreading malicious rumors to destroy A Fan's business due to her vicious and scheming nature. Tao Junran ordered Xin Xin to compensate Springtime Pleasure Boat for all its losses, and Cao Qing escorted a distressed Xin Xin away. A Fan thanked Tao Junran, who reassured her that her pustules were treatable and would heal with proper care. Feeling exhausted, A Fan politely asked Tao Junran to leave.
Desperate to cure her facial pustules, A Fan found an advertisement for "Dr. Kong," promising to restore beauty. Unbeknownst to A Fan, Tao Junran had already sought a solution from an eminent monk at Fayun Temple. Tao Junran explained that a friend, poisoned by a "special lilac," suffered from facial pustules that traditional doctors couldn't cure.
The monk informed him that without knowing the specific cause, such a condition would take a year and a half to heal naturally, but he hinted at a solution. Back with "Dr. Kong," A Fan provided her details, and the "doctor" proposed cutting off the pustules and applying a special "scarless cream," assuring her a smooth face without pain, thanks to an "anaesthetic." A Fan, trusting him, drank the offered "anaesthetic" and lay down.
Just as "Dr. Kong" admired her beauty despite her condition, Tao Junran burst in, identifying himself as the Head of the Bureau of Military Affairs. He arrested "Dr. Kong," revealing him to be an unregistered charlatan who had used cosmetic procedures as a front to drug and sexually assault numerous young women, leaving many permanently maimed in the capital. Tao Junran ordered the imposter immediately imprisoned. A Fan awoke in Tao Junran’s mansion, disoriented.
Tao Junran reprimanded her for her gullibility, explaining that the "doctor" was a fraud who used cosmetic procedures to drug and assault young women, and that she would have been a victim if he hadn't intervened. A Fan, chastened, admitted her desperation led her to rash decisions. Tao Junran stressed his duty as the Head of the Bureau of Military Affairs to protect all citizens, including her. A Fan expressed profound gratitude for his repeated rescues.
Tao Junran, in a rare moment of levity, suggested she cry if she felt moved, promising to keep it a secret. A Fan, noting her difficulty crying, still thanked him sincerely before attempting to leave. Tao Junran stopped her, giving her a special facial mask.
He instructed her to apply one piece for four hours each night before sleep, assuring her it would lead to a full recovery, adding with a smirk that he merely wished to prevent her "ugliness from ruining the county's image." Despite his teasing, A Fan was intrigued by the "cute" mask and decided to try it. That night, she dreamt of a little girl crying and wished she could express her emotions as freely.
Upon waking, A Fan was astonished to find her face completely healed, free of any pustules. Overjoyed by her recovery, A Fan decided to express her gratitude to Tao Junran. She brought him two fresh fish, entering his residence through a small "dog's hole," proudly noting she had lost enough weight not to get stuck. Tao Junran, startled, quickly wrapped himself in his blanket and insisted no thanks were necessary.
A Fan, however, insisted she was a person who repaid kindness, accidentally dripping fish water on him and profusely apologizing. She placed the fish in his kitchen, offering to cook them, but Tao Junran remained visibly uncomfortable. Feeling her initial gift was inadequate, A Fan later returned with two large complimentary banners, one proclaiming him "My New Father, Tao Junran" and another "Great Public Servant," describing the immense effort she put into creating them.
Tao Junran reiterated that he acted out of responsibility, not for rewards, and ordered Cao Qing to escort her out. As Cao Qing tried to take the banners, A Fan left them behind, again emphasizing her sincere thanks. Exasperated, Tao Junran instructed Cao Qing to prevent A Fan from entering his residence again and, specifically, to "block the dog's hole."
Cao Qing, concerned about the actual dog, asked what it would do, to which Tao Junran simply replied, "Figure it out yourself." Not long after, A Fan attempted to enter Tao Junran's mansion again. Cao Qing tried to dissuade her, but A Fan insisted on seeing Tao Junran, claiming she needed to act before an "auspicious time" passed.
Cao Qing speculated that A Fan might be planning to propose marriage, dismissing her efforts and asserting that Tao Junran would not want her. Later, Cao Qing informed a bewildered Tao Junran that A Fan had indeed returned, bringing a table with her, and was now attempting to stage an impromptu marriage ceremony to express her gratitude, though she had been stopped by the guards.
Episode 4 Recap
Li A Fan visited Tao Junran's mansion, bringing two peaches with her, intending to swear an oath of brotherhood with him. However, Tao Junran’s guards initially tried to turn her away, mistaking her intentions. When Tao Junran finally appeared, he coldly rejected her gesture. He stated that in his years in the capital, he had seen many people attempt to cling to those in power under the guise of gratitude.
He emphasized the difference in their statuses and suggested they keep their distance to avoid misunderstandings. A disappointed Li A Fan left, feeling that Tao Junran was "ice-faced" and "petty." Tao Junran, however, felt a twinge of unease after seeing her depart. Back at her Springtime Pleasure Boat, Li A Fan faced another challenge as her employees decided to leave. They complained about the lack of income and the constant troubles surrounding the boat.
Despite Li A Fan's earnest attempts to motivate them with promises of future expansion and positions as boat owners, calling them her family, her words failed to sway them, and they ultimately left. This setback made Li A Fan realize she needed to learn from more successful businesses. Determined, Li A Fan disguised herself as a young man named Ran and sought employment at the renowned Fortune Pleasure Boat. She successfully secured a position as a kitchen helper.
While working, she was impressed by the boat's lavish decorations, ornate furnishings, and advanced methods of preserving fruit with ice. She introduced herself to Zhuo Jiqing, the zither player. Later, a peculiar male guest demanded that San Yue Mei, a dancer, hit him. When San Yue Mei hesitated, Li A Fan intervened, suggesting that Zhuo Jiqing, as a man, would be a more suitable choice. Zhuo Jiqing, to Li A Fan's surprise, eagerly complied.
To show her appreciation, Li A Fan later made Zhuo Jiqing a rice cake. During their conversation, Zhuo Jiqing revealed he had a rhinopolyp, which prevented him from eating spicy food, and that he tended to touch his nose when troubled. He also confessed a liking for San Yue Mei, albeit feeling she was "out of his league." Li A Fan offered to help him, advising him that quiet men, like Lord Tao, were often favored by women.
Soon after, the Fortune Pleasure Boat's manager, who had earlier expressed her vulnerability to Li A Fan (as Ran), invited Ran to her room for drinks, hinting at a desire for intimacy. Li A Fan, uncomfortable, feigned an "unspoken ailment" to politely decline, just as a servant announced Tao Junran's arrival. Tao Junran had indeed come to inspect the Fortune Pleasure Boat. He specifically requested "Ran" to serve him.
Recognizing Li A Fan despite her disguise, Tao Junran directly questioned her presence, warning her to leave the boat by morning or face exposure to the manager. Li A Fan insisted she was merely there to learn about business operations and denied any "underhanded tactics." Later, Li A Fan returned to Tao Junran's room to deliver midnight snacks.
She had also written a love letter for Zhuo Jiqing to confess his feelings to San Yue Mei, and the letter, placed under a tea cup, was mistakenly given to Li A Fan by a nervous Zhuo Jiqing, ending up on the snack tray she delivered to Tao Junran. Unbeknownst to her, while delivering the snacks, she overheard Tao Junran speaking privately with San Yue Mei.
They were discussing "Azurelanders" and the suspicion that Li A Fan's presence was a "test" to confirm the existence of their secret base, and that "Lian Qi is still alive." Li A Fan, misinterpreting the conversation as evidence of a secret affair, panicked.
To cover the true nature of his conversation with San Yue Mei, Tao Junran quickly fabricated a story upon seeing Li A Fan, claiming that San Yue Mei and Cao Qing, a guard who had just entered, were star-crossed lovers whose parents disapproved, forcing them to meet discreetly in his room. Li A Fan left, feeling awkward but relieved. After Li A Fan departed, Tao Junran found the love letter under the snack tray she had delivered.
He mistakenly believed it was from her, unaware of the mix-up orchestrated by Zhuo Jiqing and herself. He then clarified to San Yue Mei that the elaborate lie was a necessary cover for her new assignment: to join the Springtime Pleasure Boat and monitor Li A Fan, whom he considered their most significant "bait" for Lian Qi.
Meanwhile, a heartbroken Zhuo Jiqing, having overheard Tao Junran's fabricated story about San Yue Mei and Cao Qing, lamented that no "light was lit for him." Seeing his despair, Li A Fan finally revealed her true identity as the owner of Springtime Pleasure Boat and invited him to join her. Zhuo Jiqing was shocked to discover Ran was a woman, exclaiming, "I saw you as a brother, but you're a woman! You liar!" Nevertheless, he agreed to join her.
At the modest Springtime Pleasure Boat, Li A Fan presented him with a contract, and Zhuo Jiqing put his fingerprint on it. She immediately tasked him with recruiting new dancers for the boat, handing him a signboard to carry through the market. Soon after, Tao Junran arrived at the Springtime Pleasure Boat with San Yue Mei, officially recommending her as a dancer. Li A Fan, initially hesitant due to her boat's humble finances, began negotiations with San Yue Mei.
San Yue Mei demanded 300 taels per month, which Li A Fan declared her small boat could not afford. After San Yue Mei suggested 100 taels, Li A Fan humorously retorted, "Why don't you sell my boat?" before offering 30 taels. To Li A Fan's surprise, San Yue Mei accepted the lower offer.
With San Yue Mei and Zhuo Jiqing now part of the crew, the Springtime Pleasure Boat began to attract more attention, with many people flocking to see the renowned Miss San Yue Mei.
Episode 5 Recap
Having intercepted a love letter originally intended for Cherry, which A Fan had written on behalf of Zhuo Jiqing, Tao Junran mistakenly believed it was addressed to him by A Fan. The following morning, he subtly probed A Fan about "the thing you gave me last night." A Fan, recalling the midnight snacks she had prepared for him, innocently confirmed she remembered them clearly, believing he was inquiring about the food.
Tao Junran, frustrated by her apparent lack of understanding, found her response "too much" and "inappropriate." Unaware of his true meaning, A Fan promised to improve any "sweetness" in her future dishes and offered to provide midnight snacks as many times as he desired, leaving Tao Junran even more bewildered. Soon after, Tao Junran and Cao Qing arrived amidst an argument between A Fan and Cherry.
Cherry complained that A Fan was exploiting her, as A Fan, seeing the surging number of guests, had arbitrarily increased Cherry's daily performances from three to ten. Cherry found this demand excessive, but A Fan insisted that as the owner of Springtime Pleasure Boat, Cherry, having signed a contract, must adhere to her arrangements.
Tao Junran initially agreed that ten performances were exploitative, but when A Fan proposed a compromise of five, he sided with her, instructing Cherry to obey her owner. Cao Qing further supported this, suggesting that while five performances might be challenging, they were attainable, and even ten could be managed on special occasions. With no other option, Cherry reluctantly conceded. Later, A Fan thanked Tao Junran for his intervention.
He warned her against swindling others, but implicitly allowed her to overcharge him because it was "her." He sternly added that if he ever discovered her doing this to anyone else, he would shut down her pleasure boat. A Fan then presented Tao Junran with Springtime Pleasure Boat's new dishes: "Snowy Volcano," "Blue Dragon out of the Sea," and "Immortal Congee."
Tao Junran observed their plain appearance, prompting A Fan to weave an elaborate, false narrative about their exotic origins and ingredients. She claimed the vegetables were irrigated by spring water, serenaded by farmers, and picked by innocent virgins, while the "Immortal Congee" contained rare whitebait from the Red Lake, scallops, and clams, slow-cooked for hours. Tao Junran found the congee to be quite good. However, when Cao Qing prepared to pay, Zhuo Jiqing informed him the total was six taels.
Overhearing this, Cherry furiously exposed A Fan's deceit, revealing that "Snowy Volcano" was just tomatoes with sugar, "Blue Dragon out of the Sea" was simply sliced cucumber, and the "Immortal Congee" was ordinary white porridge. She accused A Fan of being greedy and disrespectful. Tao Junran, however, dismissed Cherry's accusations, reiterating his enjoyment of the congee before escorting Cherry away.
Later, Cherry expressed her deep frustration to Cao Qing, questioning why Tao Junran continued to protect A Fan, whom she considered avaricious and worthless. She even attempted to resign from Springtime Pleasure Boat, arguing that A Fan had no value. Tao Junran, however, firmly stated that A Fan indeed had value, believing that the constant presence of Azureland agents around her meant she possessed something they coveted.
He gently cautioned Cherry against letting personal emotions interfere with her undercover assignment and promised she would be reassigned after the mission concluded. To comfort her, Cao Qing offered Cherry a candied green plum, recalling a past military campaign where Tao Junran's strategic ingenuity had saved their army, urging her to trust his lord's decisions. Tao Junran then commissioned A Fan's Springtime Pleasure Boat to pick up Yun He'an, a noble lady from the Yun family in the capital.
A Fan, curious about Yun He'an, only learned her identity from Cao Qing. Yun He'an, who had a long-standing affection for Tao Junran, made a grand entrance, but was visibly displeased that he had only waited at the ferry instead of Li Pavilion. She then attempted to dismiss A Fan’s services, stating that Tao Junran preferred refined individuals over "untrained commoners" and that her maids would attend to all needs.
A Fan calmly countered, explaining that due to the boat’s limited size and safety regulations, Yun He'an’s extensive entourage could not all board. Tao Junran supported A Fan’s decision, prioritizing safety. Annoyed, Yun He'an reluctantly complied and retired to her room, though she continued to cling to Tao Junran, a sight that visibly bothered A Fan. Soon after, A Fan was informed that Yun He'an was tormenting Cherry.
She rushed to intervene, finding Yun He'an forcing Cherry to perform the "Startled Swan Dance" repeatedly, criticizing her for not matching the skill of capital dancers. Yun He'an’s maid, Xinguan, then splashed water on Cherry to "awaken" her. A Fan, feigning an accidental slip, poured water on Xinguan, then gently chided Cherry to tidy herself.
Yun He'an angrily complained to Tao Junran about A Fan and Cherry’s "rudeness," but Tao Junran promptly interjected, declaring "Enough" and ordering the matter to cease. Upon their arrival in Cloud County, Yun He'an asked Tao Junran to escort her home and invited him to her mansion that evening to discuss "important matters." That night, after much hesitation, Yun He'an confessed her love for Tao Junran and asked him to stay.
Tao Junran, however, coldly rejected her advances, telling her it was "time to grow up" and threatening to send her back to the capital if she persisted. Meanwhile, Cherry, grateful for A Fan's earlier defense, expressed her thanks and a newfound appreciation for her. She also informed A Fan that Yun He'an’s brother, Yun Jiayu, was the current leader of the Imperial City Division and a former deputy of Tao Junran.
Cherry then warned A Fan to avoid Yun He'an, emphasizing her extremely vindictive nature and that she would not easily forgive those who crossed her. The annual Pleasure Boat Contest then commenced in Cloud County. The host introduced the five finalists, including Springtime Pleasure Boat, and each owner presented their unique services.
A Fan, in her turn, humbly described Springtime Pleasure Boat as a place where she personally handled tasks, ensuring equal, heartfelt service for every guest, regardless of their social standing. During the talent exhibition, Cherry performed "Moonlight over the Pinghu Lake," with her graceful dance captivating the audience. The competition then proceeded to the food appreciation segment. Instead of a professional chef, A Fan herself presented her dish: egg-fried rice.
This dish attracted Tao Junran and Cao Qing, and the judges acknowledged A Fan's "back-to-basics" approach to cooking. During the final voting, while other pleasure boats received votes for their opulent offerings, Tao Junran and Cao Qing's votes were still pending. Ultimately, Springtime Pleasure Boat won first place in the competition.
Episode 6 Recap
The annual Pleasure Boat Competition reached its grand finale. Sanyue Mei, the performer from Springtime Pleasure Boat, captivated the audience with her elegant dance. However, it was A Fan's humble bowl of fried rice that truly impressed the judges, including Tao Junran and Cao Qing, the bailiff. A Fan confidently declared it the best fried rice in Biyun County. Tao Junran cast his vote for Springtime Pleasure Boat, stating his preference for fried rice, which surprised many in the audience.
After the talent round results were also tallied, Springtime Pleasure Boat was declared the overall champion, earning them the prestigious first place plaque and a substantial prize. Many spectators protested the outcome, believing the seemingly ordinary Springtime Pleasure Boat didn't deserve to win. Tao Junran stepped forward to address the crowd, explaining that the competition sought the most beloved pleasure boat, and customers visited boats for relaxation, not just superficial appearances.
He affirmed that Springtime Pleasure Boat triumphed because they genuinely valued the experience of every guest. His explanation resonated with the crowd. As other boat owners departed, they grumbled about Tao Junran's perceived favoritism toward A Fan, though none dared to challenge him directly. A Fan, acknowledging her personal acquaintance with Tao Junran, still insisted on her boat's undeniable quality and her rightful win. Yun He'an then chartered A Fan's Springtime Pleasure Boat for a trip to Nanlin Island.
A Fan, anticipating trouble, tried to redirect her to another boat, but Yun He'an was insistent. During the journey, Yun He'an, with an arrogant demeanor, questioned A Fan about her relationship with Tao Junran, whom she referred to as "Yunzhi." A Fan denied any romantic involvement, explaining that Tao Junran simply upheld justice and would act the same for anyone. Yun He'an, dismissive, retorted that "Yunzhi" would never be interested in someone like A Fan.
Upon arrival at Nanlin Island, Yun He'an's men were brutally forcing Azurelanders to cry, believing their blue tears possessed medicinal properties that could cure the Empress Dowager. A Fan's father, Li Yu, a man with a child-like mind, bravely rushed into the crowd to rescue a young Azurelander boy, but was quickly apprehended. Tao Junran arrived at the scene, angered by Yun He'an's cruelty.
He vehemently rejected the notion that Azurelander tears had healing powers, explaining their unique color was merely a result of their distinct lifestyle and diet. Yun He'an accused Tao Junran of protecting the Azurelanders and reminded him of how his own father died because of them. When Yun He'an's attendant reported the rescued child missing, Tao Junran offered his men to search, but Yun He'an, trying to assert her authority, declined, calling it a minor issue.
Tao Junran, having secured Li Yu, then confronted A Fan about the missing child, knowing she had hidden him. A Fan, after a brief denial, proudly confirmed her father's heroic act in saving the child. Tao Junran, upholding the law, ordered Cao Qing to take the child into custody, as harboring an Azurelander was a crime. A Fan protested, arguing for the child's innocence, and expressed her dismay at Tao Junran's cold-blooded adherence to the law.
Yun He'an, in contrast, supported Tao Junran, viewing the child's capture as an excellent opportunity to intimidate other Azurelanders. Tao Junran, despite his displeasure with Yun He'an's eagerness for cruelty, prepared to punish Xinguan, Yun He'an's maid, for the murder of an Azurelander. Yun He'an fiercely defended Xinguan, arguing that the deaths of Azurelanders were insignificant and that Xinguan acted under the Empress Dowager's decree due to the Azurelanders' resistance.
She boldly threatened Tao Junran, implying that he would be defying an imperial order and risking his career for a "nobody." Advised by his aide not to provoke Yun He'an, Tao Junran reluctantly released Xinguan. After Tao Junran left, Yun He'an, seething with anger, ordered her remaining followers to kill A Fan and anyone else who got in her way.
Later that night, Yun He'an's attendant lured A Fan to the Yun mansion under the pretense of collecting the remaining boat payment. Once there, Yun He'an mockingly offered A Fan a thousand tael to stay away from Tao Junran. When A Fan eagerly agreed, Yun He'an attacked her, expressing her disgust that A Fan valued Tao Junran so cheaply.
Just as Yun He'an intended to kill A Fan, Li Yu, who had followed A Fan, set fire to the Yun mansion as a distraction. In the ensuing chaos, A Fan fled and jumped into a nearby river, with Yun He'an's men in hot pursuit. Tao Junran, witnessing A Fan jump, immediately plunged into the water to rescue her. He carried the unconscious A Fan back to his mansion.
There, he discovered that A Fan was an Azurelander, as she shed blue tears. Cao Qing alerted Tao Junran that Yun He'an was outside. To conceal A Fan's identity and protect her, Tao Junran skillfully performed an emergency procedure, temporarily blinding her eyes. When Yun He'an burst into the room, demanding to know why Tao Junran had brought an "Azurelander woman" into his home, he denied she was an Azurelander, stating she was a drowning victim in need of rest.
Yun He'an tried to force tears from A Fan to prove her point, but A Fan's eyes, now compromised, did not respond. Tao Junran then had Cao Qing escort a frustrated Yun He'an out. Reflecting on the situation, Tao Junran was torn, grappling with his feelings for A Fan despite the fact that Azurelanders were responsible for the killing of his father. A Fan awoke the next morning, distressed to find herself completely blind.
Tao Junran reassured her, explaining that she had hit her head on a reef, causing internal bruising that made her eyes sensitive to light. He informed her that Li Yu was safely in the adjacent room. Seeing A Fan's fear, Tao Junran solemnly promised to take responsibility for her, insisting she stay in his mansion until her eyesight recovered.
A Fan, still shaken, sarcastically pointed out his strict justice, even towards a child, questioning if he would truly make an exception for her. Tao Junran patiently explained that Yun He'an's influential position, backed by the Empress Dowager, meant that openly defending the Azurelander child would have sealed the child's fate on Nanlin Island. He urged A Fan to remain hidden until Yun He'an departed Biyun County.
Later, Tao Junran revealed his plan to A Fan: they would collaboratively "punish evil and help the good" the following morning. The next day, Tao Junran, with A Fan by his side in his study (acting as a courtroom), brought Xinguan in for interrogation. Despite Xinguan's pleas, invoking Tao Junran's long-standing connections with the Yun family, Tao Junran remained resolute, asserting that the law applied equally to everyone, especially a mere servant.
A Fan testified that Yun He'an and Xinguan had pursued her the previous night. Xinguan vehemently denied the accusation. Tao Junran then called Wang Yuanbao, a witness, who corroborated A Fan's account, identifying Xinguan as the attacker. Cornered, Xinguan confessed, claiming sole responsibility for the attack, driven by a desire to avenge Yun He'an's perceived disrespect. Tao Junran, recognizing Xinguan's loyalty but bound by the law, sentenced her to three years in jail and 60 strokes with a rod.
Yun He'an protested, offering money as compensation, but Tao Junran stood firm, stating that justice could not be compromised. He ordered Cao Qing to ensure Xinguan was taken away, despite Xinguan's defiant declaration of being able to escape using hypnotism.
Episode 7 Recap
The Azurelander child, whom Li Yu had rescued, secretly departed, leaving A Fan feeling disheartened. Tao Junran came to comfort her, recounting his own experience of being saved by an Azurelander when he was a child. Hearing his story, A Fan advised Tao Junran to treat Azurelanders with kindness in the future, suggesting that his savior might be among them. Meanwhile, Xinguan, skilled in hypnosis, escaped from her prison.
She infiltrated the Tao Mansion kitchen and administered a hallucinogenic poison called "Nanke Yimeng" to A Fan. Under its influence, A Fan became disoriented and tried to self-strangle. Fortunately, Tao Junran arrived in time to intervene and prevent her. He promptly summoned Master Jingqing from the Tongyin Sect, who used acupuncture to extract the poisonous blood from A Fan. Furious that A Fan had survived the poisoning, Yun He'an smashed a cup in anger.
She later confronted Tao Junran, feigning ignorance about Xinguan's escape and A Fan's poisoning. However, Tao Junran saw through her charade. He directly accused her of being involved and criticized her for becoming a malicious woman who viewed human life as expendable, a stark contrast to her kind-hearted youth. He sternly warned her that if he had sufficient evidence, she would be imprisoned. Despite A Fan's blindness, Tao Junran took her to celebrate the Lantern Festival.
He led her by the hand to a secluded riverbank, vividly describing the beautiful night. He painted a picture of a stone bridge adorned with lanterns, with two paper dragons wrapped around its body, their colored glaze eyes shining under the sky lanterns.
He told her about the river, filled not with lotus lanterns as usual, but with cute duck-shaped ones, and described a "cloud of blue" made of countless fireflies, both flying in the air and resting on the water. In this serene setting, he gently kissed her. Soon after, Lian Qi incapacitated Yun He'an's guards and approached her.
He proposed a deal: if Yun He'an would hand over A Fan to him, he would give her brother what he desired and reveal the secret of the shipwreck in "Devil May Cry." Yun He'an agreed to deliver A Fan in three days. A maid informed A Fan about a wandering doctor from Cangli known for his acupuncture skills in treating eye diseases.
Despite Tao Junran's warning that it was not safe for her to leave, A Fan, hopeful for a cure, decided to secretly leave the Tao Mansion to seek the doctor's help. She found a small opening, like a "dog's hole," to slip out. However, just outside the mansion, she was captured by Yun He'an's people and handed over to Lian Qi, who then took her to Banzang Villa.
Upon realizing A Fan was missing, Cherry immediately set out to find her. Instead, she discovered an injured Xinguan and brought her away. Tao Junran, upon learning of A Fan's disappearance, confronted Yun He'an. He used the wounded Xinguan as leverage to pressure Yun He'an into revealing A Fan's location. Desperate to protect the secret, Xinguan took her own life.
Tao Junran then employed a form of hypnosis, possibly enhanced by the hallucinogenic poison "Nanke Yimeng" (which he later returned to Yun He'an), to extract the information. Distraught and under this influence, Yun He'an revealed that A Fan was being held at Banzang Villa. At Banzang Villa, Lian Qi revealed himself to A Fan, explaining that he had faked his death due to an emergency.
He professed his deep affection for her, promising to be her eyes and care for her for the rest of her life, even if she never regained her sight. A Fan, however, rejected his advances. Lian Qi then attempted to sow discord between A Fan and Tao Junran, suggesting that Tao Junran was merely using her as bait to lure him out. A Fan dismissed his accusations as baseless attempts to create conflict.
Lian Qi also spoke of secrets and a shipwreck, but A Fan was too distressed to fully comprehend, expressing her confusion and desire to return to her home in Biyun County. Having successfully extracted A Fan's location, Tao Junran immediately set off for Banzang Villa to rescue her.
Episode 8 Recap
Tao Junran and Cao Qing, along with their men, located A Fan. Tao Junran confronted Lian Qi, injuring him with a stab. As Lian Qi was being apprehended, A Fan revealed to Tao Junran that she overheard Lian Qi discussing a "sunken ship secret," which surprised Tao Junran. After the ordeal, Tao Junran returned A Fan's lost shakuhachi, an act that deeply touched her.
Meanwhile, Yun He'an, who was being held by Tao Junran, received an unexpected visit from her brother, Yun Jiayu. He presented a personal letter from the Empress Dowager, ordering Yun He'an's immediate return to the capital to be rewarded for her "medicine-finding" efforts. Yun He'an remained defiant and expressed her unwillingness to abandon Tao Junran. She urged Yun Jiayu to continue investigating A Fan, particularly to verify if A Fan could shed "blue tears."
During his visit, Yun Jiayu incidentally spotted A Fan's shakuhachi and was shocked to realize it was the other half of his father's precious instrument, immediately beginning to concoct a vicious plan. Tao Junran took A Fan to a master for her severe eye condition. The master revealed that A Fan's blindness was caused by internal 'wind poison' and stagnated blood, making it difficult to cure.
He offered a potent medicine called Huanqing Powder, warning that it was extremely dangerous and could even be fatal if she couldn't withstand it. A Fan, determined to regain her sight, bravely insisted on taking it, stating she would rather die than live in darkness. After consuming the medicine, A Fan's sight miraculously returned, overwhelming her with joy. She eagerly prepared to rush home and share the news with her father, Li Yu.
However, she suddenly coughed up blood and collapsed, losing her vision again. Believing she was dying, A Fan made a tearful farewell, entrusting her father to Tao Junran. Just as Tao Junran's heart sank, the master intervened, clarifying that A Fan was not dying but merely experiencing a severe headache and fainting spell caused by the medicine purging old blood and generating new. She would fully recover upon waking. This emotional rollercoaster deeply affected Tao Junran.
As Tao Junran prepared to leave, he sought the master's advice on a dilemma: what to do if a person he cared about turned out to be an enemy. The master offered a philosophical response, hinting at enduring connections despite adversity, suggesting Tao Junran ponder its meaning. In a cell, Tao Junran interrogated Lian Qi, pressing him for answers about A Fan's kidnapping and his conspiracy with Yun He'an. He also mentioned a missing merchant ship.
Lian Qi, however, stubbornly refused to reveal anything, daring Tao Junran to kill him. Tao Junran vowed to extract all his secrets before his eventual death. Shortly after Yun He'an's departure, Yun Jiayu moved into the house next door to A Fan. He approached her, feigning apology for his sister's past actions and presenting her with valuable gifts, including an exquisite shakuhachi. He complimented A Fan's unique shakuhachi and subtly requested to examine it.
Unsuspecting, A Fan handed him her shakuhachi, which Yun Jiayu secretly swapped for a fake. He then invited A Fan and Li Yu to "walk butterflies" with him at Frost Lake the following morning. Upon learning of Yun Jiayu's new proximity to A Fan, Tao Junran sensed danger. He immediately went to A Fan's home, urging her and Li Yu to move into the Tao Mansion for their safety.
A Fan declined, citing concerns about gossip and her unofficial relationship with Tao Junran, not wanting to upset his "fans." Yun Jiayu, who was present, interjected, advocating for A Fan's autonomy and further irritating Tao Junran. A Fan remained unaware of Yun Jiayu's insidious motives. The next day, Yun Jiayu took A Fan and Li Yu to Frost Lake to "walk butterflies."
While A Fan was enjoying herself, Yun Jiayu deliberately provoked a beehive, sending a swarm of hornets after them. He grabbed A Fan's hand and led her to escape, eventually jumping into the river to evade the stinging insects. As Yun Jiayu helped A Fan out of the water, he inadvertently saw a distinct birthmark on her neck/shoulder.
He immediately recognized it as the totem of the Southern Leader of Azureland, realizing A Fan was indeed the daughter of the Azureland's female leader. Tao Junran, having learned of the incident, rushed to the lake. Seeing a soaked and shivering A Fan, he swiftly carried her away in his arms, leaving a calculating Yun Jiayu alone by the water.
Episode 9 Recap
The story begins with Yun Jiayu taking A Fan to play with butterflies. A Fan accidentally agitated some wasps, and Yun Jiayu, holding her hand, led her to escape into a river. While in the water, Yun Jiayu inadvertently saw a birthmark on A Fan's neck, realizing she was the daughter of Qianli Nanzheng. Meanwhile, upon hearing that A Fan was in trouble, Tao Junran rushed to find her.
Seeing A Fan drenched, Tao Junran promptly carried her away, leaving Yun Jiayu alone. Later, A Fan visited Yun Jiayu, who was recuperating from an injury, bringing him a special herbal medicine she had used since childhood, claiming it was effective for all ailments. She then noticed Yun Jiayu writing a classical phrase about a man's virtue being his talent and a woman's virtue being her lack of talent.
A Fan vehemently disagreed, questioning why women should be confined to domestic roles while men enjoyed freedom. Yun Jiayu explained the original context, suggesting it was meant to caution against frivolousness, but ultimately agreed that women should have the freedom to choose their own paths, whether in career or family life. Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Tao Junran, who entered Yun Jiayu's residence without permission.
Yun Jiayu sarcastically welcomed him, and Tao Junran claimed he came to deliver medicine out of concern for Yun's injury. Yun Jiayu remarked that with both A Fan and Tao Junran's concern, his wound no longer hurt as much. Seeing Yun Jiayu seemed fine, Tao Junran abruptly decided to leave, pulling A Fan along with him. Outside, A Fan protested Tao Junran's anger over her simply bringing medicine.
Tao Junran warned her that Yun Jiayu was not a good person and was dangerous, urging her to stay away from him. A Fan, however, accused Tao Junran of being petty and speaking ill of Yun Jiayu, who had only said good things about Tao Junran. Just then, Li Yu, A Fan's father, emerged, scolding Tao Junran for upsetting A Fan and, with the help of other villagers, chased him away with a broom.
Later that night, Tao Junran, feeling regretful, sent Cao Qing and San Yuemei to deliver fresh peaches to A Fan. They conveyed Tao Junran's apologies, explaining that he had been unable to eat or drink since returning home. A Fan, touched by his gesture, accepted the peaches and admitted she was no longer as angry.
The following day, a group of unmarried women confronted A Fan, calling her a "shameless bitch" and accusing her of seducing both Tao Junran and Yun Jiayu after seeing Tao Junran take her from Yun's mansion. A Fan's father tried to intervene, but A Fan stopped the women, asking them to explain her wrongdoing. She then produced a bar of soap, claiming it was the secret to her popularity with the two lords, not her person.
She described the soap as having the fragrance of spring and claimed its unique properties, developed over forty-nine days with a secret formula, would make anyone irresistible. Intrigued, the women were convinced when Yun Jiayu appeared and praised the soap's delightful scent, describing it as having the aroma of spring flowers upon first sniff, followed by a mellow and sweet peach fragrance. A Fan gifted a bar to Yun Jiayu, causing the other women to clamor for their own.
Tao Junran arrived, claiming a report of disturbance, and though A Fan insisted everything was fine, he took control, threatening anyone causing trouble with jail time, forcing the women to line up to buy the soap. Yun Jiayu clarified to Tao Junran that he was only returning A Fan's earlier favor for the medicine, then left.
After successfully selling many bars of soap, A Fan divided the earnings, giving a portion to Yun Jiayu, a smaller amount to Tao Junran, and keeping the rest for herself. Tao Junran questioned why Yun Jiayu received more than him. Yun Jiayu, ever gracious, told A Fan to keep his share. Watching this, Tao Junran possessively declared, "She's my woman. Don't you hit on her." Yun Jiayu responded, "I know. So you two have to be good.
Don't break up because of me," before departing. A Fan then playfully asked Tao Junran if he felt embarrassed making such a bold statement in front of Yun Jiayu. Tao Junran asserted he was merely speaking the truth and warned her not to lie to him, or he would make her "miserable." A Fan also expressed her frustration with Tao Junran's constant hostility towards Yun Jiayu, mentioning that Yun Jiayu had given her three flutes.
Tao Junran, surprised, demanded to see them. After inspecting the flutes, he dismissed her judgment of Yun Jiayu based on such gifts and suggested she no longer needed "this" (implying something of his value) if she had Yun's flutes. He then confiscated the flutes, telling her to reflect on everything before approaching him again. Later, alone, Tao Junran wondered if the flutes were indeed made from a Westland national treasure, contemplating what that would mean for A Fan.
A Fan, for her part, resolved to apologize to Tao Junran the next day. Meanwhile, Lian Qi was subjected to a brutal beating by guards during forced labor. Onlookers recognized him as the former richest man in Cloud County, with a guard taunting him for being an Azurelander. Yun Jiayu intervened, ordering the guards to return Lian Qi to prison. In prison, Yun Jiayu visited Lian Qi alone and unarmed.
Lian Qi challenged him, but Yun Jiayu calmly stated they were protecting the same person and his death would not benefit Lian Qi. Yun Jiayu proposed a partnership, demonstrating his knowledge of the "many free Azurelanders" outside and their activities in "Devil May Cry," which he believed Tao Junran also knew about. He pressured Lian Qi, asserting that cooperation was his "last way out," though Lian Qi defiantly told him his affairs were none of Yun Jiayu's concern.
Later, Yun Jiayu chartered A Fan's boat for a trip to the Lovers' Temple, offering a generous sum of five hundred tael, significantly more than the usual monthly rate. He explained he wanted to retrieve items left by a beloved woman who was marrying far away and would sail south in two days, and he wished to see her off immediately. A Fan, delighted by the payment, agreed.
To avoid Tao Junran's jealousy, A Fan decided to bring Jiqing along on the voyage. As they sailed, Yun Jiayu asked A Fan her opinion of him. She praised his good looks, noble background, talent, and kind personality. Yun Jiayu then confided that a national diviner had predicted a lonely life for him, where he would never attain the woman he loved. A Fan encouraged him to only believe positive prophecies.
Suddenly, Jiqing noticed a fast grain transport ship trailing them. A Fan initially dismissed it as unlikely to be a daylight robbery, but the ship was indeed carrying water bandits, who attacked their boat. The bandits tied up Jiqing and A Fan, then abducted Yun Jiayu. Just in time, Tao Junran, who was heading to Devil May Cry after receiving news about sunken silver, arrived with his men.
He bravely fought the water bandits to rescue A Fan, sustaining severe injuries and collapsing unconscious into the water. A Fan pulled the unconscious Tao Junran to shore and desperately performed artificial respiration. He eventually woke up, playfully remarking that she was kissing him, which A Fan denied. As night fell, A Fan went to gather firewood, but Tao Junran insisted he go instead, claiming it was too dark for her.
Later, A Fan discovered Tao Junran had a fever and gently helped him closer to the warmth of the fire. Tao Junran then confessed that it wasn't just the fire, but being close to her that made him feel warm. They spent the night wrapped closely together, A Fan tending to his injuries. The next morning, A Fan was covered in dirt from gathering fruits and vegetables to prepare food for Tao Junran, who had mostly recovered.
When he asked for vegetables, finding the fruits too greasy, A Fan promptly prepared some for him. Tao Junran watched her intently, and when she questioned his gaze, he said, "Now you are taking care of me. In the future, when I marry you, I'll be the one who takes care of you." A Fan, blushing, asked if he was proposing. Tao Junran simply replied, "What do you think?" to which A Fan stammered, "How can I know?"
Episode 10 Recap
After a night of recuperation, Tao Junran had recovered his strength. He looked at A Fan with tenderness, making her blush, and seized the moment to propose marriage. He told her that while she was currently caring for him, once they were wed, it would be his turn to look after her. A Fan, blushing, asked if he was truly proposing, to which he playfully responded, "What do you think?" He then embraced and kissed her.
Sometime later, A Fan's father, Li Yu, excitedly greeted A Fan upon her return, but also mentioned that the Springtime Pleasure Boat was lost. Zhuo Jiqing confirmed that San Yuemei had rescued A Fan from the incident. Li Yu suggested moving to Tao Junran's mansion, but A Fan preferred to stay, and Tao Junran agreed, telling her to let him know if they needed anything. Meanwhile, Yun Jiayu, who had chartered the Springtime Pleasure Boat, passed through Devil May Cry.
Tao Junran, suspecting a deep connection between Lian Qi and the water bandits, discovered that Azurelanders were salvaging weapons at Devil May Cry using transport boats typically reserved for grain. That night, Tao Junran and his men intercepted a convoy leaving Yun Jiayu's residence, which was secretly transporting these weapons. Tao Junran sarcastically commended Yun Jiayu for "finding" and "returning" the weapons, before ordering his men to confiscate them on behalf of the state.
Yun Jiayu, with no other option, acknowledged Tao Junran's "great methods." Before Yun Jiayu departed, Tao Junran issued a final warning: "Don't take what's not yours. It may fall on your own feet." Later, Li Yu informed A Fan that their neighbor, Yun Jiayu, had moved out without a farewell. A Fan remained unfazed, simply stating, "If we are destined to meet again, we will." Following this, Eunuch Wang arrived at Tao Junran’s mansion, delivering an imperial decree.
The Emperor commanded Tao Junran to immediately store the confiscated weapons in the nearest arsenal, emphasizing the severity of illegal weapon manufacturing and its threat to national stability. Tao Junran humbly accepted the order. Eunuch Wang then promptly left, declining an offer to rest, citing his concern for the Emperor. Without delay, Tao Junran traveled to South Island to confront Lian Qi. He informed Lian Qi that the weapons from Devil May Cry were now in state custody.
He then demanded to know A Fan's true identity, revealing that he was the one who had unlocked and subsequently resealed her pressure point for tears. Lian Qi disclosed that A Fan was an Azurelander, the sole daughter of the former Nanzheng Xiahou Yuyuan, and the current Nanzheng of Azureland.
He further clarified that the long-standing rumor of Xiahou Yuyuan having a son with the Westland King was a fabrication designed to mislead, as she had only ever given birth to a daughter. Lian Qi then implored Tao Junran to ensure A Fan's safety. Tao Junran, however, firmly declared that he did not need anyone to instruct him on how to protect his own woman.
Later, A Fan sat by the river, saddened by the irreversible damage to the Springtime Pleasure Boat. Tao Junran joined her, offering comfort and suggesting they enjoy the river breeze together. He returned the flute he had given her, which A Fan recognized as originally hers. A Fan expressed her continued surprise at Yun Jiayu's abrupt departure, and Tao Junran explained that Yun Jiayu had left due to official duties.
Tao Junran then gently reminded A Fan of his earlier proposal by the river. When she playfully pretended not to recall, he asked her again, "Will you marry me, so that I can be with you, take care of you, and protect you?" Deeply moved, A Fan worried about her father, Li Yu. Tao Junran reassured her, promising to bring Li Yu to live with them and to care for both of them.
A Fan accepted his proposal, and they returned home to share the joyous news with Li Yu. Li Yu was delighted at the prospect of moving into Tao Junran's spacious home, especially hearing about a large pond suitable for his collection of conches. A Fan clarified that their move would happen after the wedding, to which Li Yu eagerly agreed.
A Fan then wished her late mother could witness her marriage, and Li Yu comforted her, assuring her that her mother would protect her. During their conversation, Tao Junran noticed a distinctive scar behind Li Yu's ear. He asked to see it closely and, upon examination, was overcome with emotion, realizing that Li Yu, not an Azurelander, was the person who had saved his life years ago. He respectfully bowed to Li Yu as his savior.
A Fan explained that her father had suffered a head injury from a fall off a roof at the age of ten, which resulted in his memory loss, leaving him to remember only her. Tao Junran then vowed to care for both Li Yu and A Fan, a promise that thrilled Li Yu, who was excited to have both of them to play with, along with his beloved conches.
A Fan thanked Tao Junran, who affectionately reminded her that as they were soon to be family, caring for Li Yu was now their shared responsibility. As Tao Junran and A Fan excitedly began planning the design of their wedding bed, Tao Junran envisioned it with sturdy oak bedposts, camphor wood boards for insect and mildew protection, and delicate carved patterns.
A Fan humorously suggested incorporating a hidden mechanism that could deploy a curtain from the center of the bed, allowing them to separate and cool down during future disagreements. Their lighthearted moment was interrupted by the urgent arrival of Dr. Zhao from Jishi Tang. Dr. Zhao reported a severe plague outbreak in Cloud County. For the past half-month, he had treated numerous patients with coughs, who, despite treatment, progressively worsened.
Within seven days, their coughs became violent, accompanied by bloody sputum, and within half a month, they suffocated to death. Dr. Zhao had been unable to identify the source of the plague and feared its spread to the capital, which was only two days away. Tao Junran immediately issued comprehensive orders: all infected patients and their families were to be isolated in designated quarantined wards established in abandoned houses outside the city.
The city gates of Cloud County were to be sealed, guards were to assist doctors in conducting daily health screenings for all citizens, and hundreds of personnel were to be mobilized to ensure the continuous supply of daily necessities. He then mandated Dr. Zhao to identify the source of the plague within seven days. A Fan offered her assistance, but Tao Junran urged her to prioritize her own safety, acknowledging that he would be entirely consumed by the crisis.
A Fan observed the disheartening sight of numerous citizens evacuating Cloud County with their families, driven by fear of the rapidly spreading plague. An elderly woman confirmed the severity of the situation, vividly recalling past plagues that had devastated entire villages, and advised A Fan to flee for her safety. Later, A Fan met with San Yuemei and other friends, expressing her sorrow that the plague was casting a shadow over her impending marriage.
She pondered the mysterious onset of the plague, as there had been no apparent natural disasters or wars, and even the skilled Dr. Zhao could not determine its cause. San Yuemei comforted her, explaining that in such trying times, staying home and adhering to precautions was the most effective way to support Tao Junran. San Yuemei then presented A Fan with a letter and the musical arrangement for her wedding, sent by Zhuo Jiqing.
Zhuo Jiqing's mother had fallen gravely ill, necessitating his immediate return home to care for her, meaning he would unfortunately miss A Fan's wedding. Li Yu, saddened by Zhuo Jiqing's departure, gifted him one of his cherished conches as a farewell present. San Yuemei also informed A Fan that she had given Zhuo Jiqing thirty taels on A Fan's behalf. Finally, San Yuemei offered A Fan a wedding dress she had personally selected for her to try on.
Episode 11 Recap
Cherry was at the Tao Mansion, trying on a wedding dress picked out for her, while A Fan playfully teased her about Cao Qing. However, the lighthearted mood was short-lived as the plague in Cloud County worsened rapidly. Cherry soon fell ill and was quarantined. Feeling despair, she confided that she had been taking medicine for over ten days but her condition only deteriorated, making her feel as if she was dying.
Those around her, including Cao Qing, tried to reassure her, emphasizing the importance of mutual trust to overcome the epidemic. Cao Qing remained steadfast by Cherry's side, refusing to leave despite her worries about infecting him. He confessed his deep feelings for her, explaining he had wanted to tell her for a long time but lacked the courage.
When Cherry lamented that it was too late due to her worsening illness, Cao Qing firmly declared that as long as he loved her, it was never too late. He promised never to give up on her and urged her not to give up on herself, vowing that they would be together forever once she recovered. Overwhelmed by his sincerity, Cherry agreed.
Meanwhile, a guilt-ridden A Fan vowed to sacrifice ten years of her life for Cherry’s well-being as she prepared medicine. While stirring the concoction, she accidentally pricked her finger, and a drop of her blood fell into the mixture. Unbeknownst to her, this small accident would lead to a miraculous recovery. Tao Junran, observing A Fan's tireless efforts in the quarantine ward, worriedly urged her to rest. She declined, insisting that with so many patients, she couldn't afford to stop.
She inquired about her father, and Tao Junran reassured her that he was safe and well under his care. Later, Cherry, now fully recovered, approached A Fan and credited her medicine for the miraculous healing, wondering if A Fan had changed the formula. A Fan denied it but then had a sudden realization about the drop of blood. She later conducted experiments, confirming that her blood indeed possessed curative properties.
When Tao Junran asked what she was thinking, A Fan simply expressed her happiness for Cherry's recovery, though Tao Junran sensed she was hiding something. The news that A Fan's blood could cure the plague quickly spread, causing patients and their families to line up outside the county yamen, eagerly seeking her blood. A Fan understood that only her blood, when added to the medicine, had curative properties.
She continuously drew blood, resulting in her fingers being covered in cuts, and eventually, she cut a vein to collect more, which led to excessive blood loss and her falling into a coma. Grateful citizens, knowing A Fan was sacrificing her own health, brought her gifts of nourishing food like eggs and pork liver to help replenish her strength.
While in a coma, A Fan dreamt of her wedding to Tao Junran, where they drank cross-cupped wine and he playfully teased her about her desire to marry him. Waking her, Tao Junran gently tended to her injured fingers, scolding her softly for her recklessness. He asked her to promise to always discuss her decisions with him, as he couldn't bear the thought of losing her. A Fan, feeling remorseful, apologized and promised not to make impulsive decisions again.
Tao Junran then reaffirmed his commitment, promising that they would marry once the plague was over. Later, while A Fan was still resting, Tao Junran reflected on how fragile life was, recalling how close A Fan had been to bleeding to death that night. He promised her that with him by her side, she would never need to fear. Cherry and Cao Qing's relationship blossomed.
Cherry commented on Cao Qing's newfound tenderness, noting that he used to only protect Tao Junran and rarely showed such emotions. Cao Qing admitted he had learned to express his feelings by observing Tao Junran. He presented Cherry with sweet plums, a symbol of their enduring affection, and reminded her of their promise to be together forever. Although Cherry hesitated due to their circumstances, Cao Qing, a man of his word, reaffirmed his commitment and proposed marriage to her.
Cherry happily accepted. As Tao Junran considered A Fan's theory that Azurelanders' blood might also cure the plague, Lian Qi from South Island requested an audience with him. Lian Qi angrily confronted Tao Junran about A Fan's near-death experience, reminding him of his promise to protect her. Tao Junran accepted responsibility and warned Lian Qi not to interfere in A Fan's affairs. Lian Qi then declared that if A Fan's blood could save lives, then all Azurelanders' blood could too.
He offered to donate his own blood to save the people of Cloud County, suggesting a test first to prevent Midlanders from "swallowing A Fan alive." His only condition was that A Fan live a good life, to which Tao Junran agreed. Lian Qi returned to South Island and gathered his people, who expressed reluctance to help the Midlanders who had mistreated them.
Lian Qi explained that by donating blood, they would be protecting someone very important to the Azurelanders, whose identity he could not yet reveal. He promised that this person would one day lead them to freedom. Inspired by the hope of leaving South Island, the Azurelanders collectively agreed to donate their blood. The Midland people drank the "mysterious medicine" brewed with the Azurelanders' donated blood and finally recovered, bringing the crisis to an end.
Acknowledging the Azurelanders' significant contribution to combating the plague, Tao Junran issued an order to improve their living conditions on South Island and prohibited any further bullying against them. As the crisis subsided, cured patients were discharged, expressing joy and relief. Citizens gathered at the Tao Mansion, hailing Tao Junran as a benevolent and honest official, and tried to offer him gifts as a token of their gratitude.
Tao Junran, however, refused most of the offerings, reiterating that the rapid control of the epidemic was largely due to the Azurelanders' help. He promised to submit a report to the Royal Court, advocating for reduced sentences for the Azurelanders imprisoned on South Island. He accepted one small token of appreciation, while assuring the crowd that their gratitude was deeply felt.
Later, A Fan pondered how her blood could possess healing properties when she believed she had no connection to the Azurelanders, whose blood had proven to be equally potent against the plague. Unbeknownst to her, Tao Junran had already confirmed her true identity: she was the daughter of Nanzheng of Azure Kingdom and the King of Xirong, revealing her inherent connection to the Azurelanders.
Episode 12 Recap
A Fan found herself troubled by the fact that her blood could cure the plague, despite not believing herself to be an Azurelander, leading her to question her true identity. She cautiously asked Cao Qing if he remembered the color of her tears from a past occasion. Cao Qing, however, was hesitant and claimed he couldn't see clearly due to the darkness.
Sensing that he was hiding something, A Fan pretended to leave but secretly hid nearby to eavesdrop on Cao Qing and Cherry. She then overheard them discussing that she was indeed an Azurelander, and that Tao Junran had been responsible for her earlier blindness, a secret they vowed to keep. Later that night, A Fan stealthily went to the prison to confront Lian Qi, demanding to know why he had concealed her Azurelander identity.
Faced with her persistent questioning, Lian Qi finally revealed everything he knew. He confessed that she was the daughter of the Azureland's High Priest and the King of Westland, and that her biological father was the High Priest's teacher from Midland. A Fan realized that Lian Qi had initially approached her not out of genuine affection but for other motives, using her trust before faking his death, which made her feel like a public mockery.
Lian Qi admitted he had no other choice, stating his actions were for the sake of the Azurelander people. Heartbroken, A Fan left, lamenting that within a short time, her father was no longer her father, and her beloved was no longer her husband. As A Fan grieved by the river, Tao Junran found her. A Fan confessed her true identity, expecting to be arrested.
Instead, Tao Junran affirmed that her identity didn't matter to him; as long as she was his A Fan, that was enough. He presented her with custom-made wedding attire and jewelry, promising to protect her forever once they were married. A Fan worried about the danger this posed to him, but Tao Junran declared they would become "a couple of outlaws" if necessary.
He also revealed that he had submitted a report to the Emperor requesting a reduction in penalties for the Azurelanders due to their contributions to controlling the plague, hoping that half of them would soon be released. Reassured, A Fan was deeply moved, and they shared a tender kiss by the river.
Tao Junran later surprised A Fan by showing her her old pleasure boat, the Springtime Pleasure Boat, which he had commissioned the best craftsmen in Cloud County to fully repair. Moved by his gesture, A Fan embraced him publicly. She affectionately noted that despite his often aloof demeanor, he genuinely cared for her. As they strolled through the market hand-in-hand, they exchanged sweet words and were seen by locals as "sweet as the candies."
They also shared a passionate kiss at her doorstep before parting ways for the night, with A Fan eagerly looking forward to their wedding. The Tao Mansion buzzed with preparations for the upcoming wedding. However, on the eve of the ceremony, Eunuch Wang arrived unexpectedly with an Imperial edict, summoning Tao Junran to the capital.
The edict praised Tao Junran for his meritorious service during the plague, granting him numerous valuable gifts, but then demanded his immediate presence in the capital to personally thank the Emperor. Tao Junran suspected the Yun family was behind this sudden summons. He verified the edict's authenticity, confirming it was not forged, but knew he could not delay.
He entrusted Cao Qing and Cherry with the crucial task of protecting A Fan, explaining that he couldn't be there to marry her but would make it up to her upon his return. When Cao Qing offered to accompany him, Tao Junran reiterated that A Fan’s safety was paramount, and Cherry solemnly promised to guard A Fan with her life. Tao Junran then departed with the Imperial guards.
Along the way, he grew suspicious of his escorts and soon realized they were from the Imperial City Division. He was told that he "dares to disobey His Majesty" and would be "executed instantly," leading to him drawing his sword and fighting them. Meanwhile, back at A Fan's residence, Cherry tried to reassure A Fan, who was distraught that Tao Junran might not make it back for the wedding.
A Fan feared Tao Junran was abandoning her or regretting the marriage. Cherry comforted her by showing her the wedding dress Tao Junran had prepared, emphasizing his commitment to protecting her for a lifetime. Suddenly, Eunuch Wang appeared with more guards, announcing he was there "on the orders of His Majesty" to arrest A Fan as a "traitor." Cherry fiercely defended A Fan, questioning Eunuch Wang's audacity to arrest Tao Junran's fiancée so soon after his departure.
Eunuch Wang dismissed her, asserting his authority was from the Emperor, and that A Fan's guilt would be decided by others. A Fan protested her innocence, stating she was merely a fisherman's daughter who had never left Cloud County. As Cao Qing angrily intervened to protect A Fan, Zhuo Jiqing unexpectedly arrived. Eunuch Wang greeted Zhuo Jiqing with relief, while Cherry, noticing their familiarity, realized Zhuo Jiqing's allegiance with Eunuch Wang. Zhuo Jiqing then told Eunuch Wang he would "take care of them."
Episode 13 Recap
Zhuo Jiqing revealed himself as an official of the Imperial City Division, confronting Li Afan. Li Afan pleaded with him, recalling their past friendship and the true meaning of brotherhood, where friends support and protect each other. However, Zhuo Jiqing coldly dismissed her sentiments, stating his loyalty belonged to the Yun family, who gave him his life, not to her. As Zhuo Jiqing's men prepared to capture Li Afan, Li Yu, carrying a torch, bravely intervened to create a distraction.
Li Afan and Cao Qing managed to escape, while Cherry also fled. Tragically, Li Yu was fatally wounded by Zhuo Jiqing. In his final moments, Li Yu spoke to Li Afan, expressing that raising her was the most meaningful act of his life and offering her a dowry, lamenting that he would not live to see her marry. Zhuo Jiqing appeared visibly conflicted by Li Yu's death. Unbeknownst to them, all of this was Yun Jiayu's despicable conspiracy.
Despite Li Yu's sacrifice, Li Afan and Cao Qing were eventually captured by Zhuo Jiqing's forces. Tao Junran successfully escaped with Cherry. Meanwhile, in the Yun Mansion, Yun Jiayu expressed his anger to Zhuo Jiqing over Tao Junran's escape. Yun Jiayu, identifying himself as the prince of Westland, declared his long-held ambition to restore his country, an ambition fueled by Midland's destruction of his homeland and the death of his father.
Yun Jiayu later spotted Li Yu’s memento on Zhuo Jiqing, mocking him for forgetting his true allegiance and physically striking him. Earlier, Lian Qi had appeared, expressing his intention to save Li Afan and bring her back to Azureland, a goal he had long harbored, seemingly part of Yun Jiayu's overarching conspiracy.
Back in Midland, Zhuo Jiqing publicly denounced Li Afan as an Azurelander, falsely accusing her people of instigating the recent plague and inciting the populace to demand her execution as a sacrifice. To solidify his claims, Zhuo Jiqing's men revealed the mark of the three-legged crow on Li Afan's body, confirming her as the heiress of Azureland. The incensed crowd clamored for her death. Just as the execution was about to commence, Tao Junran burst onto the scene.
Tao Junran, reaffirming his vow to marry and protect Li Afan with his life, shielded her from an arrow, sustaining a severe injury. Despite Li Afan's desperate pleas to stay by his side, Lian Qi swiftly carried the weakened Li Afan away. Li Afan awoke in an unfamiliar room, disoriented and anxious about Tao Junran.
Lian Qi reassured her that Tao Junran, as a high-ranking official, would likely be safe from Zhuo Jiqing, but emphasized that returning to Midland was too dangerous for her. He then transported her to a secluded island, which he presented as her new home. Upon their arrival, the islanders greeted Lian Qi as the "governor." A local explained to Li Afan that the governor oversees the island under the "High Priest," the supreme ruler of Azureland.
This revelation led Li Afan to realize her mother might have been the former High Priest, though Lian Qi discretely prevented her from revealing her name to the curious locals. Meanwhile, Yun Jiayu, confident in his schemes, gloated to a captive Tao Junran that Li Afan was now with Lian Qi, Tao Junran had been dismissed, and nothing could stop his plan to restore Westland. Tao Junran was enraged by Yun Jiayu’s treachery.
Back on Azureland, Li Afan resolved to understand her new surroundings and plan her escape from Lian Qi. She encountered Ruby, the acting High Priest, who questioned Li Afan's presence. Lian Qi intervened, asserting that Li Afan's rightful position should be restored to her, a claim Ruby openly challenged. Lian Qi then explained to Li Afan that her true purpose in Azureland was to assume the role of High Priest.
Li Afan staunchly refused, reiterating her desire to return to Cloud County and Tao Junran. Lian Qi reminded her of the Midlanders' demand for her sacrifice and Tao Junran's current peril, stressing that Azureland was her real home and she must forget Tao Junran, as their differing worlds would prevent any harmonious future. Later that night, Li Afan attempted to escape Azureland with a small bundle of belongings, but Lian Qi intercepted her.
She confessed her intention to leave, but he insisted that Azureland was her true home and that he was there for her. Li Afan countered that it couldn't be her home without her father and Tao Junran, expressing her respect for Lian Qi as an older brother.
Lian Qi then revealed himself to be her biological brother, proving it by recalling intimate childhood memories: her stirring a hornet's nest at seven, tearing her pants while pawning pearls at nine, and defending their father by beating a boy at eleven. He explained that he had always secretly watched over and protected her, and that his mission was to safeguard their people and restore what was rightfully hers, even if she did not desire it.
He argued that the Midland emperor was persecuting them and that the Azurelanders were cordial and honest, contrary to Midlander propaganda. He pleaded with her to stay, promising to care for her and allow her to live freely. Li Afan, however, asserted her right to determine her own life and reiterated her desire to return to Midland.
Lian Qi challenged her, pointing out that Midlanders sought to sacrifice her and that her lingering feelings for Tao Junran prevented her from accepting her destiny. He then sternly informed her that she could not leave Azureland without his explicit permission. In a Midland dungeon, Yun He'an tearfully visited an injured Tao Junran, addressing him as "Yunzhi brother." She questioned Zhuo Jiqing about whether Tao Junran had been given "Breakbone Powder," a potent poison.
She then reminded Zhuo Jiqing of their friendship, threatening severe repercussions if Tao Junran were to die. On Azureland, Li Afan was exploring a bustling market when she witnessed a woman verbally and physically abusing her husband for upsetting their child. Outraged by the domestic violence and the prevailing matriarchal culture, Li Afan intervened, demanding the woman stop. The woman asserted her right to discipline her husband and accused Li Afan of trying to steal him.
Li Afan retorted by threatening to report the woman for domestic violence to the acting High Priest. A man named Liao Zhongyan introduced himself as the president of the Male Protection Association, an organization he founded to advocate for oppressed men, despite being its sole member. The abusive wife scoffed at him. Despite Li Afan's efforts, the beaten husband ungratefully told her to mind her own business.
Later, Li Afan discussed the incident with Liao Zhongyan, expressing her respect for his efforts under such challenging social conditions. Liao Zhongyan, revealing he had fled Ruby due to her tyrannical nature, pleaded with Li Afan to take him into her household, fearing a miserable fate if left alone.
Li Afan agreed to let him stay as a friend, but Liao Zhongyan, seeing her as a champion for gender equality, enthusiastically offered to become her "male maid," a proposition Li Afan found surprisingly agreeable. Shortly thereafter, Ruby's guards apprehended Liao Zhongyan. Ruby confronted him, asserting he could not leave without her permission. Liao Zhongyan informed her that Li Afan had already accepted him into her household, but Ruby dismissed this, stating that Li Afan was not yet the legitimate High Priest.
Episode 14 Recap
While on Azureland, Li Afan intervened when she saw a woman abusing a man, coming to the man's defense. The man, however, ungratefully accused her of being nosy. Despite this, Liao Zhongyan, the head of the Male Protection Association, saw in Li Afan a future of gender equality and offered to stay with her.
Soon after, Hongyu, Azureland's acting High Priest, arrived, aggressively asserting that Liao Zhongyan was her man and demanding to take him away, but Li Afan blocked her. Li Afan declared that Liao Zhongyan was her friend and that she helps those in need. Hongyu scoffed, claiming her right as the island's High Priest to take any man she desired.
Li Afan then countered, reminding Hongyu that she was merely an acting High Priest, while Li Afan herself had been brought to the island by the Lord of the Island, suggesting her own legitimacy was greater. She warned Hongyu that if her identity as the true High Priest were proven, she would remember this slight. Despite Hongyu's anger, Li Afan publicly stated her claim over Liao Zhongyan, warning anyone who bothered him would be bothering her.
Hongyu, advised by her attendant to back down since Li Afan was brought by the Lord of the Island, begrudgingly left. Meanwhile, Tao Junran, imprisoned in the capital for protecting an Azurelander, was visited in his dungeon cell by Yun He'an. He was badly beaten, but Yun He'an tenderly gave him medicine, promising to marry him even if he did not love her, as she was completely obsessed with him.
Yun He'an then returned to her mansion and pleaded with her brother, Yun Jiayu, who had just been promoted to Envoy of the Bureau of Military Affairs for his role in capturing Tao Junran, to save him. Yun Jiayu refused, citing the long-standing animosity between their families and Tao Junran's crime of harboring an Azurelander.
He urged his sister to move on, offering to find her a better man, but Yun He'an was adamant, threatening to seek help from their Imperial Aunt, the Empress Dowager. True to her word, Yun He'an approached the Empress Dowager, who, out of affection for her niece, offered Tao Junran freedom if he agreed to marry Yun He'an.
However, Tao Junran vehemently rejected the offer, stating he would rather die than marry Yun He'an, as his heart belonged to Li Afan alone. Infuriated by Tao Junran's refusal, Yun He'an returned to his cell, confronting him. Tao Junran reiterated his love for Li Afan and his preference for death over marrying Yun He'an. Yun He'an then offered him a bowl of congee she had prepared, which contained the strongest and fiercest 'Huolingu' (aphrodisiac).
As the drug took effect, she shamelessly tried to force herself on him, expressing her deep love and the immense humiliation she felt from his constant rejection. To prevent her advances, Tao Junran severely injured himself. Undeterred, Yun He'an secretly brought him back to her family's mansion. Yun Jiayu was furious, questioning how she dared to bring a prisoner home.
Yun He'an believed Tao Junran would eventually accept the marriage, despite his earlier refusal, and that he simply didn't understand yet. Yun Jiayu pointed out Tao Junran's lack of gratitude for all she had done, but Yun He'an remained convinced he would eventually understand. She begged her brother not to harm Tao Junran and threatened to take her own life if anything happened to him. Yun Jiayu, exasperated, told her he would ensure her survival even if Tao Junran died.
While Li Afan was restless in Azureland, trying various means to escape, Lian Qi brought her food. Li Afan refused to eat, stating her disinterest in Azureland's history, national conflicts, or the High Priest position. She expressed resentment towards her birth parents for abandoning her in Biyun County for so many years and insisted she wanted to return to her simple life.
Lian Qi tried to make her eat, but Li Afan demanded he leave the room, saying she couldn't eat with him watching. Moments later, Li Afan attempted to jump from a high place, asking Liao Zhongyan to catch her, but Lian Qi intervened, preventing her escape and reminding her that all her efforts were futile, as he would always bring her back. Back in the capital, Zhuo Jiqing threatened Tao Junran by torturing his loyal servant, Cao Qing.
He gave Tao Junran a stark choice: Cao Qing's lowly life or Tao Junran's "worthless integrity." Cao Qing bravely urged Tao Junran to follow his heart and not worry about him. To save his loyal servant, Tao Junran reluctantly agreed to a fake marriage with Yun He'an, but he first demanded a meeting with her.
During their meeting, Tao Junran presented Yun He'an with a written contract, explicitly stating that their marriage would be merely a formality to save Cao Qing and would be annulled once Cao Qing was freed, ensuring Yun He'an's innocence. He again confessed his enduring love for Li Afan and his inability to give Yun He'an true happiness. Despite her heartbreak, Yun He'an, desperate to marry him even if only in name, agreed to the terms.
Yun Jiayu, upon hearing the news, was surprised but still ordered his subordinate to keep a close watch on Tao Junran, vowing dire consequences if he caused any more trouble. On the eve of his forced wedding, Tao Junran, alone in his mansion, gazed at Li Afan's wedding attire. He spoke to her as if she were present, lamenting their separation and shedding sad tears as he remembered their sweet moments together. In a poignant, private ceremony, he performed a symbolic wedding ritual with Li Afan's wedding dress, expressing his unending love for her.
Episode 15 Recap
On the day of Tao Junran and Yun He'an’s wedding, the celebrations were underway, with guests offering their congratulations. Yun He'an, dressed as a bride, was radiant, eagerly anticipating their life together, while Tao Junran appeared somber, reflecting on his sweet memories with Li Afan. During the ceremony, Tao Junran did not perform the traditional bowing ritual with Yun He'an.
Later, as the time came for the couple to drink the nuptial wine, Yun He'an eagerly suggested they would become true husband and wife. Tao Junran refused, reminding her that their marriage was merely a pretense and that he only regarded her as a sister, recalling her promise to help save Cao Qing. Undeterred, Yun He'an drank both cups, stating that as long as he was her husband, even a fake marriage would suffice.
Later that night, San Yuemei, disguised as a maid, entered Tao Junran’s chamber. Tao Junran revealed that Yun Jiayu had failed to suppress his internal power, confirming that he had been in control all along. San Yuemei confirmed she had obtained the keys to the dungeon from Zhuo Jiqing. Together, they knocked out Yun He'an and signed a divorce agreement. They then rescued Cao Qing. As they made their escape, they were pursued by guards.
San Yuemei was gravely wounded while protecting Cao Qing. Despite Cao Qing’s desperate pleas for help, Tao Junran realized it was too late. He urged San Yuemei to hold on, promising they would live together in the future. San Yuemei, regretting not marrying him sooner, passed away in his arms, asking Cao Qing to live well and protect Tao Junran.
Meanwhile, Yun He'an awoke to find a written agreement from Tao Junran, stating their marriage was temporary, for Cao Qing's rescue, and would be terminated afterward. Enraged, she burned the paper, fiercely declaring that she would forever remain Tao Junran’s wife. At San Yuemei and Li Yu's tomb, Tao Junran and Cao Qing mourned their losses.
Tao Junran explained that with San Yuemei and Li Yu gone, and Cao Qing still recovering, it would be safer for Tao Junran to travel alone to Azureland to find Afan. He revealed that Cloud County was now under the control of the Imperial City Division, and he suspected Yun Jiayu of harboring larger, sinister ambitions.
Tao Junran tasked Cao Qing with returning to Cloud County as a secret informant to monitor the Imperial City Division and the Yun family's movements, emphasizing that Li Yu and San Yuemei's sacrifices must not be in vain. Cao Qing readily accepted, promising to report any developments immediately. Tao Junran then made a solemn vow at Li Yu's tomb to bring Afan back safely.
In Azureland, Afan was confined, expressing her frustration at being unable to leave or even step outside. She defiantly stated she would see who could outlast the other. A maid, Bai Lian, from Ruby’s mansion, attempted to deliver some items to Afan’s residence, claiming she had gotten lost after leaving the kitchen. Later, Lian Qi brought Afan a snack called Herbal Jelly, explaining its intricate preparation. Afan, delighted by the treat, praised its rich milky flavor.
Lian Qi then took Afan to meet the head officials. He subtly reminded her about maintaining proper boundaries, especially regarding men in her quarters. During the meeting, Lian Qi introduced Afan as the sole daughter of the former High Priest. One official, Ms. Liu, expressed skepticism, questioning Afan's sudden appearance after the High Priest's long disappearance and suggesting that Lian Qi might have been deceived or was conspiring to claim the High Priest's position.
Lian Qi firmly retorted, asking if she accused him of being a poor judge of character or of colluding with outsiders. He then presented the irrefutable evidence: Afan bore the birthmark of the three-legged crow on her shoulder, a symbol of the High Priest. The other officials acknowledged this proof. Afan, however, seemed more interested in the food laid out, even suggesting that the officials, being more capable, should continue managing the preparations for the succession ceremony.
Suddenly, she felt an upset stomach and excused herself to find the toilet. The officials murmured amongst themselves, noting Afan’s perceived lack of etiquette compared to her mother. Lian Qi later confronted Ruby, demanding to know why her maid, Bai Lian, had been in Afan's mansion and why "specialties" were delivered to the kitchen. He accused Ruby of poisoning Afan's food, stating that her illness was not a mere accident.
Lian Qi warned Ruby that while he acknowledged her past efforts, he was giving her a final chance to "know her place" and not covet what was not hers. Ruby bitterly resented the warning, reflecting on her years of dedication. Meanwhile, Zhuo Jiqing pursued Tao Junran, ordering his men to shoot arrows. Despite the fierce attack, Tao Junran managed to escape. Zhuo Jiqing reported his failure to Yun Jiayu, offering to die in atonement.
Yun Jiayu, furious, dismissed death as too easy and gave Zhuo Jiqing one last chance: return only after killing Tao Junran. Yun He'an, overhearing this, tearfully pleaded with Yun Jiayu not to harm Tao Junran. Yun Jiayu tried to reassure her, claiming he only wanted to retrieve Tao Junran for her, not kill him. Yun He'an, still uneasy, begged him not to kill Tao Junran, to help her find him, and not to escalate the matter to the Emperor.
Yun Jiayu reluctantly agreed, while internally lamenting Tao Junran’s indifference toward his sister. Tao Junran, now going by the name Deng Ran, arrived at the "Heavens Realm," the mystical entrance to Azureland. Realizing that the path to Azureland lay "upward," he searched for a hidden mechanism, deducing that Azurelanders must have a way to enter and exit. He then changed into local attire to blend in.
Despite his efforts, his handsome appearance immediately drew the attention of two local women, who began to argue over who would take him home. Tao Junran tried to disengage, stating he was married, but the women only offered to "rent him" from his family head at any price. Just then, Ruby, the acting High Priest, appeared with her guards. She ordered her men to take Tao Junran.
The women challenged Ruby’s authority, reminding her she was merely an acting High Priest and that the true successor had reportedly been found. Ruby asserted her power, ordered her guards to punish the insolent women, who quickly apologized and fled. Ruby then politely asked Tao Junran his name. After he introduced himself as Deng Ran, she commented on his good looks and name, suggesting they move to a quieter place to talk, which he accepted.
Episode 16 Recap
Upon arriving in Azureland, Tao Junran, disguised as Deng Ran, was brought to Ruby's mansion. Despite the objections of Ruby's other male concubines, who cited Azureland's rule against men eating at the main table, Ruby insisted Deng Ran join her, even offering him her private chamber, the Lotus Pavilion. During the meal, Deng Ran recognized Nanshan serving as a humble servant. Later that night, Deng Ran secretly met with Nanshan.
Tao Junran revealed that Lian Qi had taken A Fan, who he confirmed was the true High Priest bloodline, and he was determined to bring her back. He explained that Lian Qi was likely guarding A Fan closely, making it difficult to approach her alone. To gain access, Tao Junran planned to use his position in Ruby's household to learn more about Azureland, believing that following Ruby would eventually lead him to A Fan.
Nanshan, acknowledging that Tao Junran had previously spared his life, expressed his desire to help but felt limited by his status as a mere servant. The other male concubines, jealous of Deng Ran's preferential treatment, confronted him in his room that night. Nanshan tried to defuse the situation but was insulted. Deng Ran asserted his lack of interest in competing for Ruby's favor, asking to be left alone, which only provoked the concubines further as they accused him of hypocrisy.
Ruby then stormed in, fiercely defending Deng Ran and reminding everyone that she could favor whomever she pleased. She ordered all the male concubines to receive twenty lashes as punishment for disturbing Deng Ran. After they left, Ruby attempted to get intimate with Deng Ran, but Nanshan quickly intervened, offering to help Ruby bathe and sleep, claiming she was tired. Ruby praised Nanshan's quick thinking and departed, leaving Deng Ran to muse on her persistence.
Meanwhile, A Fan was deeply missing her father and Tao Junran. Liao Zhongyan, the head of the Male Protection Association, confronted Ruby, demanding justice for her concubines whom she had punished harshly due to Deng Ran's arrival. Ruby retorted that her concubines were her property to treat as she wished and threatened Liao Zhongyan for trespassing. A Fan then arrived, declaring that Ruby could not harm Liao Zhongyan, who willingly followed her.
A Fan presented a medicinal sachet, directly accusing Ruby of using underhanded tricks, such as poisoning her food, which had embarrassed her at a recent meeting. Enraged, Ruby ordered her guards to seize A Fan and Liao Zhongyan. Before the situation could escalate, Deng Ran appeared, interrupting Ruby and claiming he had been delayed from their lunch plans. He swiftly escorted Ruby away, preventing a brawl.
A Fan watched Deng Ran leave, noting his striking resemblance to Tao Junran, but quickly dismissed the thought, reminding herself that he was Ruby's man. Later, Lian Qi pressed A Fan to embrace her destiny as the true High Priest and prepare for the upcoming annual Bell Contest for the Azure Festival. He explained that winning the contest would be a crucial step in gaining the people's acceptance and allowing her to reform Azureland's outdated customs.
Although A Fan was reluctant, believing she couldn't win against Ruby, Lian Qi insisted she could and revealed he had already registered her. Ruby, learning that A Fan was aware of her poisoning attempts and had entered the Bell Contest with the governor's support, became furious. She immediately ordered her subordinate to find skilled fighters to ensure her victory.
Back at Ruby's mansion, the male concubines confronted Deng Ran once more, this time blaming Nanshan for spilling their precious "Guaranteed Daughter Tonic," a costly concoction from a guru. Deng Ran offered them a "Baby Girl Pill" he had acquired for "study," which he claimed guaranteed a daughter. He then openly criticized their servile mindset and obsession with pleasing women, calling their behavior "pathetic."
Ruby arrived to his defense, dismissing the tonic as fraudulent and stating that Deng Ran had likely saved them from ill effects. She invited Deng Ran to join her Bell Contest team. Seeing this as a prime opportunity to get closer to A Fan, Deng Ran accepted. During the team selection for Ruby's Bell Contest entry, Deng Ran organized a weighted sprint to test the hopefuls' endurance and flexibility.
Elsewhere, A Fan rigorously supervised Liao Zhongyan's training for the contest, encouraging him after he passed an initial qualification round. She then accompanied him to a market to buy heavy stone weights, pushing him to choose the heaviest ones to enhance his physique. At the same market, Ruby and the masked Deng Ran were also present.
Ruby asked Deng Ran about his mask, and he explained it was to avoid unwanted attention, recounting how he was surrounded by women upon his initial arrival. A vendor, mistaking Ruby and Deng Ran for a loving couple, offered them free stone weights, which Ruby happily accepted despite Deng Ran's attempts to clarify their relationship. When Ruby and A Fan spotted each other, tensions flared, but Deng Ran stepped in, urging both women to maintain composure in public.
A Fan, increasingly convinced of Deng Ran's resemblance to Tao Junran, shared her deep longing for her fiancé with Liao Zhongyan and pleaded with him to help her escape Azureland. Liao Zhongyan, touched by her distress, promised to assist her when the chance arose. That night, Ruby visited Deng Ran in his room, openly expressing her desire for intimacy.
Deng Ran, repulsed but feigning innocence, tactfully deflected her advances by suggesting that true intimacy should develop naturally over time and not be rushed, hinting that her eagerness suggested she was only interested in his appearance. Ruby, momentarily taken aback, apologized for her impulsiveness and promised not to rush things, then left. Left alone, Deng Ran realized he could no longer stay in the mansion.
Meanwhile, A Fan dreamt vividly of Tao Junran coming to Azureland to rescue her, asking if she would leave with him, to which she tearfully agreed. She then awoke, the dream fading, still wondering if the masked man she saw earlier was truly her beloved Tao Junran.
Episode 17 Recap
The Azure Festival, a day when men in Azureland confess their feelings to women they admire, arrived. In the evening, women gathered in the town square, and men would mark the faces of their chosen women with ash. Tao Junran, his own face smeared with ash, used the cover of the festivities to bring A Fan away from the crowds. Nanshan helped by distracting Lian Qi, allowing Tao Junran to spend time with A Fan.
A Fan, having drunk too much, didn't recognize Tao Junran, who was wearing a mask. She poured out her heart, expressing how much she missed the man she loved, but sadly remarked that she might never see him again, before succumbing to intoxication. Seeing Lian Qi approaching, Tao Junran shared a reluctant kiss with the unconscious A Fan and quickly departed. A Fan awoke the next morning in bed, surprised to find Nanshan by her side.
Lian Qi entered, offering her a hangover soup. Though she initially resisted, A Fan drank the soup completely, as she needed to be clear-headed for the upcoming Bell Contest. She couldn't shake the feeling of familiarity from the man she met last night and wondered if it could have been Tao Junran.
The Bell Contest began, a highlight of the Azure Festival, where the victor would be crowned the Martial Arts Master and earn the right to spend three days with a woman of his choice, regardless of her social status. Tao Junran proved victorious, claiming the title. As the winner was being celebrated, Nanshan excitedly informed A Fan that the Martial Arts Master was none other than Tao Junran.
Without hesitation, A Fan rushed onto the stage to claim Tao Junran, confronting Ruby, who had also expected to be chosen. Despite Ruby's confidence, Tao Junran decisively chose A Fan. A Fan then refused to let Tao Junran remove his mask, declaring that only she was allowed to see his true face. Watching A Fan lead Tao Junran away, Lian Qi was visibly enraged. Later that night, Ruby approached Lian Qi, expressing her concern for his feelings.
She suggested he let A Fan go, arguing that A Fan would never appreciate his efforts and was disrespecting him by repeatedly taking people from his household. Lian Qi, however, dismissed her advice, admitting that his position as High Priest was important to him. He then stated that, ultimately, Azureland belonged to A Fan. He told Ruby to leave.
A Fan, still disbelieving, asked Tao Junran to pinch her, wondering if she was dreaming, as she had dreamed of him previously and woken to find him gone. Tao Junran reassured her, promising that he was truly there and would not leave again. A Fan joyfully expressed her desire to return to Cloud County with him, to bring her father, Li Yu, and Nanshan, and live a peaceful life together.
With a heavy heart, Tao Junran delivered the devastating news that her father had passed away. A Fan was overcome with grief, refusing to believe him, but Tao Junran gently comforted her, saying that her father would have wanted her to live a happy life. Meanwhile, a severe storm had caused landslides, rivers to swell, and suburban villages to be submerged, resulting in unknown casualties. Lian Qi convened a meeting with the stewards to discuss disaster relief.
Ruby and the other stewards, displaying a callous disregard for human life, argued that too much time had passed since the disaster began, making rescue efforts futile and dangerous. They advocated for prioritizing flood control, proposing the construction of reservoirs and even suggesting that A Fan was a harbinger of ill fortune, having brought a plague to Cloud County and now a flood to Azureland.
Disgusted by their heartlessness, A Fan passionately argued for saving the victims and offered to lead a rescue team herself if Lian Qi would provide manpower. While Lian Qi ultimately prioritized flood control, assigning Ruby and Ms. Jin to build reservoirs, he also agreed to send people to survey the affected rivers and mountains. A Fan and Tao Junran immediately led a rescue team to the flooded areas.
Tao Junran observed that the rain had loosened the soil from the landslides, making a secondary collapse highly likely and necessitating a swift evacuation of the area. A Fan instructed those with good swimming skills to join her in rescuing people from the water, while others were to help transfer victims to the safety of the city. Before entering the dangerous waters, she checked on Tao Junran, who reassured her and then went in to help.
Unbeknownst to them, Ruby's flood control plan was facing severe problems. Workers attempted to build reservoirs as per Ruby's design, but torrential rain made construction impossible. Despite the difficulties and the rising water levels, Ruby insisted on moving forward. Tao Junran, reviewing the situation, noted that building reservoirs in the low-lying, mountain-surrounded Azureland was a massive undertaking, and the rising water and unstable mountains made it incredibly risky.
He proposed an alternative: clearing silt from the rivers and digging tributaries to divert water out of the basin. However, Lian Qi, under pressure, ordered the placement of a bronze ox as a spiritual measure and the diversion of water to the unfinished reservoirs. This premature action triggered a massive mudslide, burying the reservoirs and many workers. Upon hearing the horrific news, Lian Qi was deeply shocked, and Ruby herself sustained injuries. Tao Junran informed A Fan of the catastrophe, and A Fan, undeterred, quickly proposed a new solution.
Episode 18 Recap
Following Ruby's ill-conceived plan, a mudslide struck during the construction of a new reservoir, tragically burying both the workers and the structure itself. Upon learning of the disaster, A Fan and Tao Junran immediately sought out Lian Qi to strategize a solution. A Fan explained that the relentless heavy rainfall had caused an incessant flow of sand and rocks into the river below, leading to a dangerous rise in water levels.
This, in turn, eroded the hills further, creating a dangerous cycle. She proposed mobilizing hundreds of skilled swimmers to clear the river's silt and then digging new tributary channels to divert the water into a basin. Lian Qi, however, expressed concern, noting the ongoing heavy rain, dim light, and rapid, unpredictable currents, deeming it too hazardous for people to enter the water.
A Fan countered by suggesting the use of large ships to tether the swimmers with strong ropes, allowing them to work in pairs and be pulled back to safety every half-hour. When pressed by Lian Qi about the likelihood of success, A Fan admitted she couldn't be certain without further study. She requested time to research and draft a detailed diversion diagram.
She then consulted Manager Bai about the largest ships available, learning there were two "Nine masts, 12 sails" vessels. Lian Qi agreed to deploy people for silt removal while urging A Fan to complete the most viable diagram as quickly as possible. A Fan, aided by Tao Junran, worked through the night on the plans. Tao Junran cared for A Fan, offering her food and encouraging her to rest, while playfully shooing away a child who offered to help.
A Fan later instructed Manager Bai to make copies of the completed diagrams for the workers to follow. Following general praise for A Fan's success, Tao Junran playfully remarked on her constant mask-wearing. A Fan explained her face was "too ugly" and she didn't want to scare people, though Tao Junran reassured her that external beauty was superficial.
Her attendants, overhearing, rushed in to warn her not to remove the mask, explaining that a severe allergy from a previous competition meant she must avoid wind and water or her condition would worsen. Soon after, Manager Bai reported to A Fan that over 1,700 buckets of silt had been removed, and the water level had indeed dropped, exciting A Fan. Elsewhere, Ruby’s attendant informed her of the declining water levels.
Lian Qi, pleased with the progress, praised A Fan to another manager, acknowledging her unexpected capabilities and her lineage as the former High Priest's daughter. Ruby, however, was consumed by jealousy. Expressing her resentment that everyone favored A Fan, her attendant tried to reassure her, dismissing A Fan's success as mere luck and questioning how someone without flood management experience could succeed so smoothly. Ruby, contemplating this, agreed that such a significant undertaking couldn't be without obstacles.
Later, Lian Qi discovered Ruby's attempt to sabotage the newly dug channels, stopping her men. He confronted Ruby, expressing his deep disappointment and questioning how she could endanger the lives of all citizens out of envy. Ruby stammered, unable to offer a coherent explanation. Lian Qi declared that after the flood, he would report her actions to all the managers for their deliberation, advising her to reflect on her conduct.
With the rain finally ceasing and the diversion efforts proving successful, the people of Azureland rejoiced, chanting A Fan’s name and hailing her as their High Priestess, thanking her for ending the flood. Lian Qi then addressed the jubilant crowd, promising that the national treasury would cover all housing repairs and that further reconstruction plans would be discussed the following day. Afterward, Tao Junran approached A Fan, noting that with the rain stopped, the flooded exit would soon be cleared.
He then proposed that A Fan abandon everything in Azureland to elope with him, a man wanted by the Midland. A Fan, deeply moved, readily agreed, asking when they would leave. Tao Junran replied, "As soon as the roads are clear," confirming it would be a secret departure. As they prepared to leave, Lian Qi appeared, revealing he had been waiting for them. He confronted Tao Junran, confirming his true identity as a Midland traitor.
A fight ensued, with A Fan desperately trying to stop them. Lian Qi, despite being wounded, urged A Fan to come to his side, warning her that Tao Junran was a traitor and following him would put her in grave danger. A Fan, undeterred, declared her unwavering love and readiness to face any hardship with Tao Junran, stating she didn't care about the Midland's laws.
Lian Qi questioned her commitment to Azureland, to which A Fan defiantly stated she had never voluntarily returned and held no ambition to lead its people; her sole desire was to be with Tao Junran. She asserted that even if forced to stay, she would never faithfully serve as the High Priestess. Suddenly, cries of "Murder!" erupted, as black-clad men began attacking the market, indiscriminately killing people. A dying man implored Lian Qi to avenge him and the victims.
Lian Qi received word that the attackers were from Midland and ordered his men to the market. He warned Tao Junran to protect A Fan. As the men in black swarmed the area, their leader declared, "No one lives. Kill all of them." Lian Qi confronted them, demanding to know their identity and purpose. The leader, without revealing his name, simply ordered his men to capture everyone.
Amidst the chaos, A Fan became separated from Tao Junran, who promised to return for her. A young boy, Nanshan, caught in the chaos, prayed for protection. An elder rallied the traumatized Azureland citizens, fueling their collective rage and calling for the capture of the invaders, even at the cost of their own lives. During the fierce battle, Lian Qi’s men were captured, and A Fan went missing.
One of the captured men in black, when questioned about his mastermind, subtly indicated Tao Junran. This led Lian Qi to confront Tao Junran again, accusing him of orchestrating the attack. Tao Junran vehemently denied it, arguing that a mere glance was not enough to incriminate him. He pledged to find the true culprit and clear his name. One of Tao Junran's subordinates, captured or wounded, apologized to Tao Junran for their incompetence, acknowledging that it had implicated him.
When Tao Junran reiterated his innocence and emphasized the urgency of finding A Fan, Lian Qi remained skeptical, demanding revenge for his people. He gave Tao Junran an ultimatum: find A Fan, uncover the real mastermind, and prove his innocence, for this was his final chance. Meanwhile, A Fan regained consciousness to find Yun Jiayu beside her. She inquired about Tao Junran and Lian Qi.
Yun Jiayu claimed he had rescued her from the men in black while she was unconscious, but could not help the others. A Fan, worried, tried to leave to find Tao Junran, but Yun Jiayu stopped her, assuring her of Tao Junran's safety. He feigned reluctance to reveal more, citing concerns for her safety, but A Fan pressed him for answers. Yun Jiayu then began his manipulative narrative, asking A Fan if she remembered the plague at Cloud County.
He suggested it was a deliberate act, not a natural disaster, designed to expose her identity as the High Priest's daughter. He implied that someone stood to gain immensely from the chaos and subsequent fame. A Fan cautiously asked if he was referring to Tao Junran. She initially refused to believe it, questioning why Tao Junran would have saved her then.
Yun Jiayu persisted, falsely claiming that Tao Junran had entered Azureland solely to capture her and gain favor with the court, making him responsible for the deaths of the Azureland people. A Fan was distraught, accusing him of framing Tao Junran. As "proof," Yun Jiayu presented a marriage certificate between Tao Junran and Yun He'an.
Yun Jiayu continued his deception, claiming that despite Tao Junran being his brother-in-law, he was compelled to reveal the truth to A Fan, whom he considered a dear friend, so she wouldn't be further used. He painted Tao Junran's actions as purely self-serving, for his career. A Fan, overwhelmed and in denial, repeatedly cried, "I don't believe you. It's impossible."
Heartbroken and enraged by Yun Jiayu's insidious lies, A Fan rushed back to the mansion, passing through the devastated market filled with grieving families. She confronted Tao Junran, who was distressed by her appearance and injuries. Holding up the marriage certificate, she demanded to know if he was married. Tao Junran, shocked by the document, stammered, unable to respond clearly.
A Fan, confronting him with the certificate and the captive's accusation, furiously demanded to know if he expected her to believe him. Tao Junran desperately tried to explain that he had been coerced by threats against Cao Qing's life, forced to marry Yun He'an. But A Fan, beyond reason, pulled out a dagger and stabbed him, collapsing in tears as she declared that she never wanted to see him again. Tao Junran fell, wounded, as Lian Qi's men arrived and took him into custody.
Episode 19 Recap
Distraught by Yun Jiayu's manipulative deception and the imperial marriage decree, A Fan returned to her mansion. Holding the marriage certificate, she tearfully confronted Tao Junran, demanding to know if he had truly married Yun He'an. Tao Junran explained that Yun He'an had threatened him, but A Fan refused to believe him. In a fit of despair, she stabbed him with a dagger, crying that she never wanted to see him again.
Confused by her actions, A Fan wondered why she had done such a thing. As Lian Qi prepared to deliver a fatal blow, Midlander agents swiftly intervened and rescued Tao Junran. Lian Qi reassured A Fan that he would always protect her and prevent Tao Junran from approaching her again, but A Fan’s heart remained with Tao Junran. Meanwhile, Tao Junran found himself chained in the Yun Mansion.
He angrily demanded Yun He'an release him, but she dismissed his pleas, explaining that even if she did, the heavily guarded mansion would prevent his escape. Yun He'an tried to be affectionate, but Tao Junran questioned her motives, asking what she truly wanted and if she was behind the killing of the Azurelanders. Yun He'an chillingly replied that the Azurelanders deserved to die. Tao Junran then noticed a flute that looked exactly like A Fan's.
When he confronted Yun He'an, she revealed that she, like A Fan, was a descendant of Westland royalty, and her mother was the former Queen of Westland. She insisted she was just as good as A Fan and implored him to treat her better. This revelation made Tao Junran realize Yun Jiayu's true intentions and his larger conspiracy. Tao Junran, seeing no other option, feigned compliance, seemingly accepting his situation.
Back at the Lian Mansion, A Fan drank in solitude, grappling with the day's events. Lian Qi found her and pledged his unwavering loyalty, promising to face any challenge with her and always remain by her side. He offered to share her sadness and her drink, asking only for a glance from her. Yet, A Fan's thoughts were consumed by Tao Junran, wishing his words of comfort were from him.
Later, while Lian Qi was distracted, A Fan escaped the mansion, telling his subordinate that she needed three days to find an answer and would return. Yun He'an had Tao Junran's chains removed and offered him food, but she admitted that his soup contained a substance designed to make him weak. Later, Yun He'an expressed her desire to celebrate her birthday immediately, during the Lantern Festival, to publicly declare Tao Junran as hers.
Yun Jiayu agreed, despite his own reservations, instructing his guards to keep a close watch on Tao Junran. While he was alone with Tao Junran, Yun Jiayu questioned his sincerity, asking if he truly intended to abandon A Fan. He warned Tao Junran that he was not as easily fooled as Yun He'an but offered him a chance, waiting for his response. A Fan returned to her old house, calling out for her father, Li Yu, but found only silence.
Her mind drifted back to happier times with him. She then made her way to the city, where she saw Tao Junran. Tao Junran only told her to return home quickly, saying nothing else to her. A heartbroken A Fan watched as Tao Junran instructed a guard to give a lantern to Yun He'an. Yun He'an, from her sedan chair, received the lantern, delightedly assuming Tao Junran had bought it for her.
Yun He'an later stood beside Tao Junran as Yun Jiayu announced a city-wide fireworks display for her birthday celebration. She asked Tao Junran if he would never leave her, holding the lantern she believed he had given her and claiming it was the only one she liked. Devastated, A Fan returned to Lian Qi's home, declaring that she was too tired to leave again. Lian Qi and his people worried about her changed demeanor.
Later, A Fan approached Lian Qi, announcing her decision to become the High Priest and seek revenge against the Midlanders. At a public assembly, Lian Qi formally introduced A Fan as the new High Priest, explaining that her bloodline, lost for eighteen years, had been restored. However, many in the crowd questioned her legitimacy, doubting that a mere birthmark of the three-legged crow could prove her identity, suggesting it could be faked.
Acknowledging their skepticism, A Fan admitted she had no physical proof of her identity. However, she reminded them that High Priests of the Azurelander tribe possessed extraordinary aquatic abilities, able to remain submerged for half an hour. To prove her authenticity, A Fan challenged Hong Yu to an underwater contest, throwing the Water God's symbol into the water and declaring that they would both dive to retrieve it, and the first to surface for air would lose.
Episode 20 Recap
A Fan, still reeling from past heartbreaks and fueled by a desire for vengeance against the Midlanders, resolves to assume the position of the High Priest of Azureland. To validate her lineage, she participates in a traditional underwater breath-holding challenge against Ruby to retrieve the sacred God of Water symbol; the first to resurface would lose. As A Fan and Ruby dive into the treacherous waters, the assembled crowd anxiously watches, fearing for the future of Azureland.
After a tense period, A Fan emerges, not only with the symbol but also having rescued Ruby, who had become ensnared in water weeds. Witnessing her bravery and compassion, the people hail A Fan as their rightful high priest. Now empowered, A Fan leads an audacious raid on Midland's arsenal. She explains to her followers that Azureland's vulnerability stems from its lack of weaponry, emphasizing that while they do not seek war, they must be prepared to defend themselves.
They successfully seize weapons before retreating amidst a frantic pursuit by Midland guards. Their next target is South Lin Island, where many Azureland citizens are forced into hard labor. A Fan boldly liberates them, promising to lead them back home. The grateful laborers cheer for their high priest and eagerly join her. However, as A Fan prepares to depart South Lin Island, Tao Junran intercepts her.
He earnestly pleads with her to abandon her path of revenge, warning that her actions will only escalate tensions and bring further conflict between their nations. Yun He'an, also present, expresses concern for Tao Junran's safety in the midst of the riot and urges him to leave. Heartbroken by Tao Junran's perceived betrayal, A Fan remains resolute. When one of her guards advises her to forget the "heartless man" and focus on their escape, A Fan agrees.
During the confrontation, A Fan wounds Tao Junran. Lian Qi then swiftly helps A Fan and her people escape. Later, Lian Qi confronts A Fan about her reckless night raids, expressing his deep worry and disappointment that she didn't confide in him about such grave matters. A Fan confesses that despite everything, she still yearns to see Tao Junran.
Though saddened by her enduring feelings for Tao Junran, Lian Qi agrees to facilitate a meeting, stating he cannot bear to see her in distress. Meanwhile, a recovering Tao Junran is with Yun He'an. She expresses her happiness to be by his side and shares her brother Yun Jiayu's elaborate plans, which she believes will restore Tao Junran to a position of even greater power. Unbeknownst to Yun He'an, Tao Junran is merely feigning reconciliation.
As a general, he is enduring the personal humiliation and feigning affection to gain Yun He'an's trust, hoping to expose Yun Jiayu's treacherous conspiracy to overthrow the existing regime. Yun Jiayu then arranges a private meeting with A Fan, sending her guards away. He reveals their shared bloodline, referring to her as his sister and recounting the history of their Westland royal family.
He claims that Midland, fearing Westland's strength, falsely labeled their father a tyrant, leading to Westland's downfall, their mother's flight, and A Fan's abandonment. Yun Jiayu implores A Fan to cast aside her personal affections and unite with him to exact revenge against Midland. He promises that with his control over Midland, the people of Azureland will finally be free.
To achieve this, he tasks A Fan with retrieving a crucial city defense map of Midland, hidden by their mother, the former high priest Xiahou Yuyuan, in a deep and perilous Azureland lake, a feat only possible for a descendant of the high priest. A Fan agrees. Although Lian Qi expresses skepticism about Yun Jiayu's narrative, A Fan insists that obtaining the map would give them strategic leverage, regardless of its accuracy.
A Fan dives into the dangerous lake and successfully retrieves both the city defense map and a hidden letter. However, before she can secure them, Tao Junran intercepts her underwater and seizes the map. Lian Qi takes an injured A Fan back home. Soon after, Tao Junran delivers the stolen city defense map to Yun Jiayu. Yun Jiayu then convenes with several high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Zhang, to present the map and galvanize them for rebellion.
Prime Minister Zhang and the other officials enthusiastically pledge their allegiance to Yun Jiayu's ambitious cause. However, the rebellion hits a snag when Lord Liu secretly informs Yun Jiayu that the city defense map he possesses is a fake. While expertly crafted, Lord Liu points out subtle discrepancies between the map and the actual Imperial City layout, warning that using it would lead to significant military losses.
Enraged by this deception, Yun Jiayu immediately orders Tao Junran to be brought before him. Meanwhile, A Fan reads the letter from her mother, Xiahou Yuyuan. The letter reveals the devastating truth: her father, King Situ Tian of Westland, had betrayed Midland to confront Azureland, causing widespread chaos and suffering.
Her mother, deeply remorseful for the part she played, had hidden the vital city defense map and the letter in the lake, explicitly instructing A Fan never to let anyone use the map. This revelation shatters A Fan's belief in Yun Jiayu's narrative; she realizes that Midland had never betrayed Azureland, but rather, the King of Westland had deceived her mother.
She shares this shocking truth with Lian Qi, expressing profound regret and doubt about her alliance with Yun Jiayu, especially knowing that the map Tao Junran seized was intended for him. Lian Qi points out that Tao Junran's action of taking the map already signaled Yun Jiayu's lack of trust in her. Recognizing the immense suffering that war would inflict upon innocent people, A Fan resolves to prevent the conflict. Lian Qi reassures her, pledging that protecting her is his lifelong mission and that he will support her decision.
Episode 21 Recap
Tao Junran presented a City Defense Map to Yun Jiayu. Yun Jiayu, eager to incite rebellion, took the map to the ministers, only for Minister Liu to discover that the map was a forgery. Upon learning this, Yun Jiayu immediately summoned Tao Junran to subtly test whether he was aware of the deception.
Despite Tao Junran's composed demeanor, the astute Yun Jiayu grew suspicious, considering two possibilities: either Tao Junran had secretly kept the real map, or he and A Fan had conspired to trick him. Concluding this, Yun Jiayu swiftly dispatched a subordinate to Azureland to bring A Fan to him. Meanwhile, Zhuo Jiqing, in disguise as a man in black, sought out Ruby.
He skillfully manipulated her, highlighting her resentment towards A Fan for losing the High Priest position and for challenging Azureland's cherished traditions. He warned Ruby that A Fan's progressive changes would eventually lead to the destruction of Azureland. Feeling her frustrations validated, Ruby readily agreed to cooperate with him. Later, Zhuo Jiqing impersonated Liao Zhongyan to approach A Fan. He offered her a bowl of fish soup, despite knowing her aversion to fish, which immediately raised A Fan's suspicions.
His uncharacteristic behavior, such as reading and appearing dazed, further confirmed her unease. A Fan directly confronted him, realizing he was not the true Liao Zhongyan. Zhuo Jiqing then revealed his true identity and forced A Fan to drink a Truth Serum. Under the influence of the drug, Zhuo Jiqing relentlessly pressed A Fan for the location of the City Defense Map, even trying to provoke her by falsely blaming Tao Junran for the deaths of her people.
Just as Zhuo Jiqing was questioning A Fan, Lian Qi appeared, and Zhuo Jiqing's disguise as Liao Zhongyan was revealed. Zhuo Jiqing quickly abducted A Fan and fled. Lian Qi gave chase, but Tao Junran suddenly appeared, stopping him. Tao Junran revealed to a shocked Lian Qi that the forged map and his public display of affection with Yun He'an were all part of an elaborate plan he had orchestrated with A Fan to gain Yun Jiayu's complete trust.
Lian Qi, deeply hurt by Tao Junran's apparent betrayal and public romance with Yun He'an, accused him of being disloyal and insensitive. Tao Junran apologized, explaining his marriage to Yun He'an was initially a fake one to save Cao Qing, but Yun He'an had torn up the agreement, cementing their union. He emphasized the critical situation, as Yun Jiayu had meticulously planned an attack on Midland, and only he could stop it, swearing his unwavering love for A Fan.
Though Lian Qi was convinced, he still worried for A Fan's safety. He insisted on sacrificing himself to further their plan, believing his capture would make Yun Jiayu trust Tao Junran even more and that his own life was insignificant compared to A Fan's well-being and the success of their mission. Despite Tao Junran's protestations, Lian Qi allowed himself to be captured by Zhuo Jiqing’s men.
Zhuo Jiqing later reported to Yun Jiayu that Lian Qi had been "dealt with" and that his identity was safe, implying Lian Qi was no longer a threat. Yun Jiayu, angered by Zhuo Jiqing's extreme action, reminded him he only wanted Lian Qi "solved," not killed, but Zhuo Jiqing retorted that they were now "on the same boat." Upon receiving Tao Junran's urgent message, Liao Zhongyan and Xiao Nanshan sprang into action.
They orchestrated a fake earthquake using explosives to create chaos and scare away the guards at the water dungeon where Lian Qi was held. Using retrieved keys, they freed Lian Qi. During their escape, they were pursued by Yun Jiayu's forces. Liao Zhongyan bravely fought off their pursuers, even using a bomb, but was tragically struck by arrows while protecting Lian Qi.
He succumbed to his wounds in Xiao Nanshan's arms, making Xiao Nanshan promise to bring A Fan back and assuring him that he would watch over him from the stars. Meanwhile, A Fan was brought to Yun Jiayu's mansion by Zhuo Jiqing. Tao Junran secretly visited her, apologizing for the hardships she was enduring for Midland and vowing to find a way to rescue her. Yun He'an was deeply uneasy about A Fan's presence, fearing Tao Junran's feelings might change.
Yun Jiayu, seeking to test Tao Junran's sincerity, tasked Yun He'an with tormenting A Fan. Yun He'an began by making a servant deliberately drop ice and then ordered A Fan to pick it up with her bare hands, subsequently placing her foot on A Fan's hands to cool herself.
Tao Junran intervened, not overtly showing sympathy for A Fan, but calmly advised Yun He'an that her "liver fire was too strong" and that external remedies wouldn't solve the core problem, effectively stopping the abuse. A Fan, enraged by her suffering and the perceived betrayal, bit Tao Junran, accusing him of her people's deaths.
Yun He'an was furious, but Tao Junran pacified her by explaining that public mistreatment of A Fan could alienate the Azurelanders and jeopardize Yun Jiayu's grand plans. Yun He'an grudgingly accepted his reasoning. Later, Yun Jiayu discovered that what he believed was the City Defense Map, obtained from A Fan by Zhuo Jiqing, was actually a letter from her deceased mother, cautioning against the people of Westland. Realizing he had been tricked, he concluded that the true City Defense Map must still be in Tao Junran's possession.
Episode 22 Recap
A Fan was held captive in the dungeon under Yun He'an's cruel treatment. She had been arrested by Zhuo Jiqing on Yun Jiayu's orders, who suspected her and Tao Junran were colluding to deceive him with a fake city defense map, and that their public fallout was a ruse. Tao Junran secretly visited A Fan in the dungeon. He tenderly applied medicine to her wounds, expressing his sorrow for putting her in such a dangerous situation.
Tao Junran offered to take A Fan away from her captivity, but she refused, asserting that she was willing to endure the suffering for their cause. Instead, A Fan urged him to remain steadfast and continue their fight to ensure that those who had sacrificed their lives did not die in vain. Deeply moved, Tao Junran wept and embraced her, promising that once their mission was accomplished, he would whisk her away from worldly troubles.
They would live happily in seclusion as an ordinary couple. A Fan accepted, playfully reminding him that he still owed her a grand wedding ceremony. Tao Junran vowed to fulfill this promise, committing to love and cherish her for eternity. Soon after, Zhuo Jiqing arrived at the dungeon to interrogate A Fan. A Fan, as part of their ongoing deception, handed him a city defense map that Tao Junran had provided.
Later, Yun Jiayu received the map and instructed Zhuo Jiqing to keep a close watch on A Fan. He emphasized that holding her captive was their most significant leverage against Tao Junran, preventing him from making any rash moves. Meanwhile, Cao Qing, working as a spy for Tao Junran, secretly met with Lian Qi and Nanshan. Lian Qi had recently been rescued from Yun Jiayu's water dungeon by Nanshan and Liao Zhongyan, who tragically died during their escape.
Cao Qing explained that Tao Junran had been compelled to marry Yun He'an to save him and had subsequently traveled to Azureland to find A Fan, while he remained in Midland to gather intelligence. He informed Lian Qi that A Fan was now in trouble and that Tao Junran urgently wished to speak with him.
When they met Tao Junran, Lian Qi expressed profound regret over Liao Zhongyan's death, blaming himself for not having heeded Tao Junran's earlier advice to stay in Azureland. Tao Junran, however, urged him not to dwell on the past but to focus on A Fan's plight, emphasizing that they could not allow her suffering to be in vain. Lian Qi then asked Tao Junran about his plan.
As Lian Qi and Cao Qing later attempted to rescue A Fan from the dungeon, they were intercepted by Zhuo Jiqing and his guards. Zhuo Jiqing hypnotized A Fan, causing her to lose control and violently attack Lian Qi. Seizing this opportunity, Zhuo Jiqing tried to kill Lian Qi. In a desperate and heroic act, Ruby bravely threw herself in front of Lian Qi, buying him precious time.
She managed to pass an antidote to Lian Qi before being fatally stabbed by Zhuo Jiqing. With Ruby's sacrifice, Cao Qing urged Lian Qi to leave quickly, as they were being pursued. Later, Cao Qing entrusted Lian Qi with a small portion of a city defense map and a critical letter, asking him to deliver it to the Emperor. Back at Yun Mansion, Yun He'an was playing chess with Tao Junran when a servant reported A Fan's escape.
Zhuo Jiqing immediately suspected Tao Junran of colluding with outsiders to help A Fan flee and demanded to arrest him for investigation. However, Yun He'an fiercely defended Tao Junran, asserting that they had been together the entire time and threatened Zhuo Jiqing if he dared to harm Tao Junran. She dismissed Zhuo Jiqing and tried to resume the chess game with Tao Junran, clearly unwilling to accept his possible involvement in the escape.
Sometime later, A Fan woke up, surprised to find herself safe with Nanshan. Nanshan told her that Lian Qi and Cao Qing had brought her back. When Lian Qi and Cao Qing returned looking soaked, A Fan inquired about their whereabouts. Cao Qing quickly fabricated a story about going to the market for food, then informed A Fan that they needed to travel to Azureland.
A Fan was hesitant to leave without Tao Junran, but Lian Qi insisted she return to Azureland, reiterating his regret for the suffering she had endured since he brought her to Midland. A Fan reluctantly agreed but warned Lian Qi not to make any more decisions behind her back. Lian Qi apologized and promised Nanshan that they would eventually return to Azureland, their true home. Meanwhile, Yun Jiayu continued to execute his grand scheme.
He had obtained a city defense map (provided by Tao Junran via A Fan) which detailed a secret underground palace. With this information and the Prime Minister's long-standing cooperation, Yun Jiayu successfully stole one half of the Tiger Tally from the Emperor. Yun Jiayu gloated about his achievement.
However, as the Prime Minister spoke of his past connection to Yun Jiayu's mother, Yun Jiayu poisoned him, coldly stating that his mother had been alone underground for too long and now had company. This ruthless act solidified Yun Jiayu's resolve. After an unsuccessful attempt by a subordinate to locate A Fan, Yun Jiayu grew impatient and commanded that Tao Junran be brought to him.
When Tao Junran arrived, Yun Jiayu, now in possession of one half of the Tiger Tally, attempted to coerce him into surrendering the other half. He reminded Tao Junran that as they were now "family" through Tao Junran's marriage to Yun He'an, their fates were intertwined, suggesting they collaborate to forge a new world. Tao Junran agreed to hand over his half of the Tiger Tally but only on the condition that A Fan be released.
Yun Jiayu initially dismissed the idea of discussion regarding his "troublemaker" sisters, but eventually agreed to release A Fan. Separately, Zhuo Jiqing found Yun He'an arranging flowers, presumably for Tao Junran. Distraught, Zhuo Jiqing confronted her, begging her to forget Tao Junran and acknowledge his feelings for her, even with just a glance. Yun He'an, however, coldly reminded him of his subordinate status.
Heartbroken, Zhuo Jiqing questioned why his love for her was wrong, lamenting that despite all his efforts, she had never truly seen him, her heart belonging only to Tao Junran. Yun He'an angrily ordered him to stop.
Episode 23 Recap
Consumed by his unrequited love for Yun He'an, Zhuo Jiqing confronted her, expressing his willingness to do anything for her. He lamented that despite his devotion, her heart remained solely with Tao Junran. Yun He'an tried to silence him, but Zhuo Jiqing, in a fit of rage, struck a servant before knocking Yun He'an unconscious. Zhuo Jiqing then used Yun He'an's name to lure Tao Junran to the Yun mansion garden, where Tao Junran was drugged and rendered unconscious.
Meanwhile, Lian Qi had incapacitated Li Afan and entrusted Xiao Nanshan to escort her back to Azureland. During the journey, Li Afan regained consciousness and, appealing to Xiao Nanshan's past affection, convinced him to untie her, promising she wouldn't try to escape while the carriage was moving. Once untied, she feigned a stomachache, creating a diversion that allowed her to jump from the moving carriage and escape.
She then, accompanied by Xiao Nanshan, sought out Cao Qing and his group, who were searching for Tao Junran. Zhuo Jiqing took the unconscious Tao Junran from the Yun mansion, intending to kill him. Tao Junran, still groggy, questioned Zhuo Jiqing's elaborate plan, asking why he didn't just kill him at the Yun mansion.
Zhuo Jiqing revealed his deep hatred for Tao Junran, whom he accused of stealing Yun He'an's affections, explaining that he couldn't openly kill Tao Junran due to Yun He'an's potential sorrow. Instead, he planned to make it appear as though Tao Junran had actively escaped the Yun family and was then killed by Azurelanders. Tao Junran scoffed at his efforts, pointing out that Yun He'an had never truly cared for him.
Infuriated, Zhuo Jiqing ordered his men to kill Tao Junran. Just then, Cao Qing and Lian Qi arrived, deploying smoke bombs to create chaos and allow Tao Junran to escape. They split up to evade Zhuo Jiqing's pursuing forces. Zhuo Jiqing cornered Tao Junran and Lian Qi at the edge of a cliff. Li Afan and Xiao Nanshan rushed to their aid.
Tao Junran urged Lian Qi to let go of him, but Li Afan pleaded with Lian Qi to hold on, even threatening him if he didn't. In a moment of sacrifice, Lian Qi, recalling his past promises to Li Afan to protect her and ensure her freedom, entrusted her to Tao Junran's care, saying, "Afan, I entrust you to him." He then grabbed Zhuo Jiqing and plunged over the cliff, sacrificing himself and taking his enemy with him.
Witnessing Lian Qi's fall, Li Afan was overcome with grief and collapsed unconscious. Upon learning of Zhuo Jiqing's death and Tao Junran's survival, Yun Jiayu erupted in a furious tirade, deeming his subordinates utterly useless. Shortly after, Eunuch Wang arrived unannounced, revealing that he had intercepted Tao Junran's letter to the Emperor and swapped the real tiger tally for a fake one. He urged Yun Jiayu to accelerate his plans for rebellion.
Meanwhile, Yun He'an confronted Yun Jiayu about his increasingly drastic actions and demanded to know Tao Junran's whereabouts. Unmoved, Yun Jiayu ordered his guards to confine his sister to her chambers, forbidding her from leaving. Tao Junran, having learned from his subordinate that Yun Jiayu's soldiers were making moves, understood that the rebellion was imminent. With less than a hundred available soldiers in the city, the situation was dire.
Li Afan overheard their conversation and stepped forward, offering the support of the Azurelanders. She declared her determination to make Yun Jiayu pay for the injustices committed against her people. Tao Junran, worried for her safety, initially refused her help, pleading with her not to make him worry. However, Li Afan was resolute. Tao Junran and Li Afan eventually confronted Yun Jiayu.
Li Afan arrived bearing an imperial edict, which commanded the immediate arrest of Yun Jiayu for bribing an eunuch, stealing the tiger tally, and conspiring treason. Yun Jiayu, defiant, lashed out at Li Afan, blaming her and her mother for destroying his family and now thwarting his grand ambitions. He despairingly cried out to his ancestors that he had failed in his lifelong mission to restore their nation's glory.
As he feigned surrender to receive the imperial decree, Yun Jiayu lunged at Tao Junran with a hidden blade. Li Afan bravely intercepted the attack, taking the fatal blow herself and collapsing into Tao Junran's arms. Enraged by her sacrifice, Tao Junran unleashed his fury and killed Yun Jiayu. Distraught by Li Afan's critical condition, Tao Junran wept. To save her life, he transferred all his internal energy to the unconscious Li Afan, preserving her last breath.
This act, however, came at a heavy cost; his hair turned white overnight, and his own life hung in the balance. In the aftermath, the Emperor, having received Tao Junran's communications, the city defense map (which Tao Junran had given to Li Afan earlier), and the late Nanzheng's letters, finally understood the full truth behind the Azureland incident.
He learned of Xiahou Yuyan's unwavering loyalty to Midland despite being bewitched by the King of Westland, her sacrifice to protect her child, and the Azurelanders' long history of safeguarding Midland and rescuing its people. Recognizing their loyalty and past contributions, the Emperor issued an edict, granting amnesty to all Azurelanders, releasing them, and permitting them to return to their homeland to rebuild. The people of Azureland rejoiced at this long-awaited vindication.
Later, Cao Qing shared his plans with Tao Junran, revealing his intention to travel the world with San Yue Mei. He bid a heartfelt farewell to Tao Junran, thanking him for years of care and urging him to take good care of himself. As Cao Qing walked away, Tao Junran watched his departing figure, a profound sense of loneliness settling in his heart.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
Following the events of the rebellion, Yun He'an was condemned to spend her days as a Buddhist nun in the ancestral temple by the Empress Dowager. Yun He'an vehemently protested, crying out against being touched by the guards and refusing to go to the ancestral temple or become a Buddhist nun. The guards reminded her that she was merely a rebel in prison, no longer a lady in a mansion.
Despite her pleas to see the Empress Dowager, she was forcibly taken away. Meanwhile, Tao Junran, his hair now completely white from transferring his vital power to A Fan to save her life, sat by her side. He gently held her hand, murmuring about their unfulfilled wedding, stating that they had been married for a long time and he still owed her a ceremony, assuring her he had not broken his promise.
He envisioned a future where he would care for her, just as she had cared for him, and teasingly recalled asking her why she was crying when she had already agreed to marry him. He confessed how deeply he missed her, day after day, as he had remained by her side in the deep mountains throughout the seasons. A Fan miraculously awoke, disoriented, wondering if she had descended into the underworld.
She spotted Tao Junran's sword nearby and mused whether he had come to accompany her even there. Then, sensing her own heartbeat, she realized she was alive and anxiously called out for "My lord." She searched for Tao Junran but found no trace of him.
Wandering into a nearby town in her wedding attire, she asked about the governor's mansion, only to be told by a local that the family had been gone for over seven years and that it was now the eighteenth year of the Shunde era. The revelation stunned her; she had been asleep for ten years. An adult Nanshan, now a young man, recognized A Fan and joyfully exclaimed that it had been ten years and she was finally awake.
A Fan, still reeling, asked him what had transpired and where Tao Junran was. Nanshan explained that after Yun Jiayu stabbed A Fan, Tao Junran killed Yun Jiayu. He then presented his case to the Midland Emperor, successfully vindicating Azureland, after which he resigned his official post to live in seclusion. Nanshan sadly admitted he had not seen Tao Junran since then. A Fan then inquired about their other friends.
Nanshan led her to memorial tablets for Liao Zhongyan, Lian Qi, and Li Yu. He recounted how Liao Zhongyan had died in his arms, and how he had retrieved his body to be honored alongside Lian Qi and Li Yu. A Fan wept, lamenting that she was late.
Amidst her grief, she had a fleeting memory of Li Yu talking about the sound of the sea in a conch, then encouraging her to be strong as she was now the High Priest and hero of Azureland, telling her not to cry for him. Later, A Fan encountered Yun He'an, who had indeed become a Buddhist nun, now known as Liaochen. A Fan recognized her, but Yun He'an feigned ignorance.
A Fan pressed her, questioning her relationship with Tao Junran and scornfully remarking that Tao Junran would never be interested in someone like her. A Fan then asked if Yun He'an had seen Tao Junran, expressing her long and fruitless search for him. Yun He'an responded with a detached philosophical observation, "If it is fate, you will gather. If it is not, you will disperse.
If he is a person from the old time, why should you try to find him?" Undeterred, A Fan declared her intention to find Tao Junran, stating that she needed to see him, dead or alive, and didn't believe he was gone. She asserted that since he did not want to come to her, she would go to him. A Fan continued her journey, eventually hailing a boatman.
A sense of familiarity washed over her, and as she paid the fare, she recognized the boatman as Tao Junran. She called out his name, but he denied it, claiming she had mistaken him for someone else. A Fan was resolute, insisting she could not be mistaken and would recognize him even if he were reduced to ashes. She passionately called him "My lord" and "Tao Junran."
She confronted him, demanding to know why he had saved her if he never intended to see her again, reminding him of his solemn promise to protect her for the rest of their lives. She accused him of breaking his word or, worse, falling in love with someone else, imploring him to deny it. Finally, Tao Junran uttered her name, "Fan."
He explained that his constitution was undermined and his vitality was sapped, and he did not want her to endure the pain he had suffered. A Fan dismissed his concerns, vehemently stating that she didn't care about his condition, as she had struggled to find him and would never let him go again. She asserted that if the King of Hell wished to take him, he would first have to seek her permission.
She pleaded with him to never leave her, playfully threatening to go on blind dates with other "little old men," even joking that she preferred more wrinkles and whiter hair. Tao Junran chuckled, his resolve melting away. Moved by her unwavering devotion, he gently pulled her close and kissed her. Tao Junran and A Fan settled into a peaceful, secluded life in the mountains.
A Fan, ever determined to restore his youthful appearance, diligently researched hair coloring creams and frequently experimented on him. Though often exasperated, Tao Junran tolerated her attempts, even when she once left him with green hair for seven days. He returned home from the market, teasing her about how popular his white hair made him. A Fan presented him with a herbal concoction containing angelica, ginseng, atractylodes, and ganoderma, assuring him she hadn't added her own blood this time.
Later, as she tried to apply a new hair dye, he playfully dodged her, feigning tiredness and asking for spicy chicken. She, ever mindful of his health, insisted he would have boiled cabbage instead. As night fell, they sat together on their boat, Tao Junran holding A Fan as they peacefully watched the river lights.
