The Autumn Ballad Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Autumn Ballad Synopsis
Qiu Yan, the most unpopular young lady of the Qiu Family, emerged from the deep courtyard with her own hard work and wisdom and was able to navigate her way through a series of mysterious cases and tumble through difficulties.
She and the cool prince Liang Yi went from fighting with each other to know each other. Finally, they gained their happiness and love.
The Autumn Ballad Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Before her wedding, Qiu Yan, the second illegitimate daughter of the Qiu family, revealed that she had little curiosity about her fiancé, He Feng. Instead, she cherished a fan given to her by a mysterious benefactor who had taught her to read and write, which had enabled her to gain entry into the Qiu family. She doubted she would ever meet him again, as his only trace was the fan and a self-assigned title written on it.
The wedding ceremony began with great fanfare, but tragically, He Feng suddenly collapsed from a severe coughing fit and died in the main hall. A physician declared him beyond help, leaving General He and his wife devastated. Observing the body, Qiu Yan noted the unusual rigidity of He Feng's limbs, a detail inconsistent with a recent death. Soon after, Qiu Yan’s father, Qiu Yi, and his wife, Madam Han, arrived at the He Residence to take Qiu Yan back.
Their attempt to also return the betrothal gifts infuriated General He, who insisted that Qiu Yan was now his daughter-in-law and must mourn his son. Qiu Yi countered, citing imperial law that allowed annulment if an illness was concealed before marriage.
However, the matchmaker then confessed that Qiu Yan's birth mother, Madam Liu, had bribed her with ten taels of silver to alter Qiu Yan's Eight Characters, as her original ones were deemed destined to bring misfortune and death to her husband. Convinced that Qiu Yan had jinxed his son, General He declared that she must be buried alive with He Feng. Qingdai, Qiu Yan’s maid, overheard this from outside the door and immediately informed her mistress.
Qiu Yan and Qingdai attempted to flee the He Residence disguised as new servants, but their ruse was quickly discovered. While being pursued, they split up. Qiu Yan ran towards a group led by Liang Yi, an inspector from the Firewood Office, and fabricated a story about being an orphan trying to find her aunt. However, Liang Yi noticed her expensive hairpin and delicate hands, discerning her lie.
Without offering assistance, he instructed his subordinate to proceed and allowed the He family guards to resume their chase. Shortly after, Qiu Yan was rescued by her parents, who arrived in a waiting carriage. Back at the Qiu Residence, Qiu Rong, Madam Liu’s son, complained that Qiu Yan's situation had ruined his plan to secure a government position through the He family.
Meanwhile, Qiu Yi confronted Madam Liu, chastising her for altering Qiu Yan’s birth chart and bringing disgrace upon the family. Later, Madam Liu privately urged Qiu Yan to return to the He Residence and appease her in-laws, suggesting that after the funeral, she could adopt a son from the main He family branch. This, she argued, would secure Qiu Yan's future and pave the way for Qiu Rong's career.
Realizing her mother's selfish motives, Qiu Yan confronted her, rejecting the notion that a woman's life should be sacrificed for her male relatives. Disappointed, Qiu Yan burst into the family hall where the elders were deliberating her fate. Declaring that rules no longer mattered to a person facing death, she publicly shamed her Third Uncle for his academic failures and her Fourth Uncle for his dissolute behavior, accusing both of being unfilial.
Angered by her audacity, Old Madam Qiu declared that Qiu Yan would be sent back to the He Residence. Just then, a servant rushed in with news: the ancestral tablet of the Old Mistress was bleeding. While the men dismissed it as a trick, Old Madam Qiu sent everyone away and demanded Qiu Yan’s thoughts. Qiu Yan seized the opportunity, claiming the bleeding tablet was a sign of sorrow from the Old Mistress, who had also been unwillingly buried alive.
She subtly implied that if she were forced to die, she would become a vengeful spirit. After solemn contemplation, Old Madam Qiu decided to seek the Crown Prince's mediation, hoping he would honor his past connection as a student of the late Old Master Qiu. Relieved, Qiu Yan later praised Qingdai, who had orchestrated the "bleeding" tablet with ink.
Qiu Yan explained she chose the Old Mistress’s tablet because Old Madam Qiu harbored deep guilt over forcing the woman to her death and would, therefore, feel compelled to believe the omen to soothe her own conscience. As she relaxed, she gazed at the fan, recalling how its owner had once challenged her not to run away from home until she could read all the characters on it—a challenge that eventually led her to learn his name, Liang Yi.
In the Firewood Office prison, Liang Yi interrogated Official Li over an account book detailing 30,000 taels of embezzled military funds, suspecting the Ministry of War was behind the corruption. He then received an edict from the Crown Prince to mediate the conflict between the Qiu and He families.
Though his subordinate saw it as a thankless task, Liang Yi viewed it as an opportunity to gain the He family’s support to investigate the military, an acceptable trade-off for offending the scholar-official Qiu family. At the mediation, General He demanded "a life for a life." Liang Yi proposed a compromise: Qiu Yan would not be buried alive but would instead become a nun at Jingyun Convent to pray for He Feng.
He skillfully persuaded General He to accept by reminding him that escalating the conflict would displease the Emperor. Later, Liang Yi admitted to his subordinate that he showed leniency because he was reminded of a young girl he had saved years ago, reflecting that Qiu Yan was, like her, a living person. Qiu Yan was devastated, telling her father that life in a convent was no different from death.
Qiu Yi explained it was the best outcome he could secure, as the decision was made by the powerful Marquis Wenyuan, who was also the head of the Firewood Office. Qiu Yan tearfully revealed a bold new plan: to become a female official in the imperial court, a position open to unmarried, educated women.
She intended to use Noble Consort Guo's upcoming birthday celebration, which her stepmother Madam Han was invited to, to impress the consort and secure a place in the palace. While Qiu Yi dismissed the idea as impossible, Madam Han strongly supported Qiu Yan, admiring her indomitable spirit. On Noble Consort Guo's birthday, Madam Han presented an ornate lacquer screen as a gift. Then, Qiu Yan stepped forward, offering a "simple gift" of her own. As she presented it, an indignant courtier shouted, "Such audacity! How dare you take Her Highness for a fool?"
Episode 2 Recap
Before her scheduled entry into the palace, Qiu Yan diligently worked on her needlework. Her younger sister, Qiu Min, felt a pang of jealousy, believing their mother, Madam Han, always favored Qiu Yan. On the day of the tribute presentation, noble ladies brought their daughters to meet Noble Consort Guo and present their gifts. Unexpectedly, Qiu Yan's meticulously prepared embroidered scroll was swapped for a common rock. Despite the shocking turn of events, Qiu Yan quickly composed herself.
When asked about the rock's meaning, she cleverly explained that it symbolized the Noble Consort's dignified and simple character, as well as her quiet, resilient inner self, likening it to the earth silently enduring nature's storms. Impressed by her wit, Noble Consort Guo asked what reward Qiu Yan desired. Qiu Yan expressed her wish to enter the palace to serve and learn from the Noble Consort, thereby fulfilling her father's duty to the throne.
Noble Consort Guo simply instructed her to await an imperial order. Afterward, Qiu Yan speculated to Madam Han that someone in the palace, likely allied with the He family, had deliberately switched her gift. The stolen gift was later revealed to be an intricate embroidery depicting the Lantern Festival on one side and the Noble Consort's own "Instructions For The Inner Quarters" on the other, showcasing Qiu Yan's talents in literature, needlework, and artisan skills.
Noble Consort Guo later confronted Liang Yi, revealing she knew he was responsible for swapping the gift but was nonetheless impressed by Qiu Yan's quick thinking. Liang Yi simply stated he had his reasons. Soon after, Liang Yi arrived at the Qiu Residence to deliver an edict. The Noble Consort's message praised Qiu Yan's intelligence and ambition but emphasized that a woman's chastity for her husband is a fundamental principle, akin to a man's sacrifice for his country.
To reinforce this, the Noble Consort awarded her the Songyun Cypress Plaque, urging her to preserve her chastity for her late fiancé and bring glory to her family. The Qiu family rejoiced at this "rare grace," and the Old Madam immediately decided to hold a grand three-day banquet to celebrate their family's honor. However, Qiu Yan saw the plaque not as an honor, but as a cage, extinguishing her hopes and binding her to a life of widowhood.
Qiu Yan confronted Liang Yi, correctly deducing that he had swapped her gift. She reasoned that only someone confident of the Noble Consort's favor, like Liang Yi, whose mother was the consort's former personal maid, would dare commit such an act. She accused him of interfering because her plan to enter the palace disrupted his arrangement for her to become a nun for the He family.
Liang Yi admitted to swapping the gift, not for complex reasons, but simply because he disliked her "smart-aleck" attitude. He argued that he had saved her life, so she should be content with her fate. Qiu Yan passionately countered, describing the harsh reality of Jingyun Convent, where nuns often "withered" and died before thirty. She lamented the societal double standard where she was expected to die for a man she barely knew, while men were encouraged to remarry.
Liang Yi conceded her point about fairness but warned that palace life was far more perilous, where one's life depended on the Emperor's whim. He predicted her outspoken nature would lead to her death within three days and advised her to "make an appraisal of your own capability," stating that true change comes only from strength. During the grand banquet, a despondent Qiu Yan drank alone on a raised platform.
Qin Xuan, the Prince of Duke Ying Residence, observed her from afar. A frivolous man named Meng Yu tried to harass Qiu Yan, but Qin Xuan intervened, introducing himself as a distant "cousin." He explained that his aunt was the Qiu family's First Madam, Jiang, making her daughter his cousin. Though not blood-related to Qiu Yan, he knew of her situation from the banquet gossip.
Trusting him due to their familial connection, Qiu Yan expressed her cynicism about the praise for her chastity and asked him to drink with her. She lamented that a woman wishing to live for herself was considered a sin and viewed her family's newfound honor as a "profitable deal" made by sacrificing her. When Qin Xuan asked about any unfulfilled wishes, Qiu Yan half-jokingly asked for a kiss, wanting to know what intimacy felt like before a life of celibacy.
She quickly laughed it off and told him to call her by her name, Qiu Yan. She then revealed her original name was Yan (smoke), given by her birth mother, Madam Liu, who had abandoned her in a woodshed, expecting her to die. Her name was later changed to the more auspicious character for Yan (charming) when she was brought into the main family.
Qin Xuan comforted her with a line of poetry, assuring her that even a "single plume of smoke" can rise to the heavens and that things would turn around as long as she didn't give up. After the banquet, Qiu Yan prepared to send her maid, Qingdai, away with some money, not wanting the young girl to follow her to the convent. Qingdai tearfully refused to leave.
Just then, Madam Liu arrived with a bag of silver for Qiu Yan's difficult life ahead. Moments later, Madam Han secretly hurried Qiu Yan to an unlocked gate where a carriage waited. She had arranged for Qiu Yan to escape to Taiying Temple, giving her money and supplies. Overwhelmed, Qiu Yan knelt in gratitude. As she was leaving, her sister Qiu Min intercepted her.
Qiu Min accused her of being a practiced liar and selfishly leaving without considering how their mother would face the consequences. She tearfully confessed her jealousy, feeling that Madam Han always favored Qiu Yan over her, her own biological daughter, but admitted she didn't hate her and asked her to take care of their parents in the future. That night, Qiu Yan's carriage left the city.
She felt a moment of liberation but was haunted by sadness, wondering why Qiu Min didn't hate her. The next morning, the Qiu residence was in an uproar over her disappearance. Just as the Old Madam was blaming Madam Liu and Madam Han, a messenger from the He family arrived, announcing that Qiu Yan had arrived safely at their residence.
At the He Residence, Qiu Yan, feigning repentance, explained to Madam He that the Noble Consort's edict had made her realize her folly. She claimed to have returned alone to take full responsibility and reconcile the two families. Seemingly convinced, Madam He allowed her to stay until the funeral, after which she would personally escort her to Jingyun Convent. Meanwhile, back at the Qiu Residence, Madam Han confronted Qiu Min, who admitted to speaking with Qiu Yan.
Qiu Min tearfully repeated her grievances, feeling that her mother had always favored the more clever and decisive Qiu Yan and had never truly cared for her. While keeping vigil in the mourning hall, Qiu Yan was surprised by Liang Yi's arrival. Citing official duty, he offered to stay for a few days to pay his respects, which General He accepted. Qiu Yan was certain he had ulterior motives.
Shortly after, Qin Xuan also arrived, claiming to be the deceased's former classmate from Suzhou. Liang Yi and Qin Xuan exchanged veiled, suspicious remarks. Qin Xuan then dramatically broke his writing brush, vowing to cease writing poetry in his friend's memory. When both men offered to keep vigil through the night, Qiu Yan intervened. She subtly suggested that Liang Yi, as the head of the "Firewood Office"—a place rumored to be haunted—might scare the deceased's spirit away.
Persuaded by the superstition, the He family sent Liang Yi to a guest room, leaving Qin Xuan to stay. Later that night, dozens of black cats were thrown into the residence, causing chaos in the mourning hall. Qiu Yan calmly directed the servants to chase the cats and prepare new offerings, effectively clearing the room. Once alone, she and Qin Xuan locked the doors and exchanged a knowing smile. Qin Xuan then admitted his dramatic vow to stop writing was merely a performance to win the family's trust and gain access to the hall.
Episode 3 Recap
Qiu Yan went to the He Residence against her will but harbored a personal quest: to uncover the true cause of He Feng's death, determined not to be wrongly accused of jinxing him. Having meticulously prepared by learning autopsy techniques from a coroner, she enlisted Qin Xuan's help. Together, they orchestrated a chaotic scene by releasing a black cat into the mourning hall at night, creating a diversion that allowed them to secretly examine He Feng's body.
The ensuing commotion in the He Residence caught the attention of Liang Yi. Noticing him approaching, Qiu Yan quickly instructed Qin Xuan and Beixue to clean up the mourning hall. She then intercepted Liang Yi, feigning dizziness and falling into a nearby pond, pulling him in with her to delay him. Despite the Hes' attempts to brush off the incident as the work of wild cats, Liang Yi saw through Qiu Yan's act.
He refrained from exposing her publicly, choosing instead to meet her in private, convinced she had uncovered crucial information about He Feng’s death and wanted her to reveal it. During their private meeting, Qiu Yan admitted to Liang Yi that she and Qin Xuan had indeed opened He Feng's coffin. She revealed that He Feng had not died from a disease or from being jinxed, but from poisoning.
Furthermore, she found half of a copper coin pendant clutched in his hand, a clear sign of a love token, suggesting He Feng had a secret lover before their marriage. Liang Yi, already suspicious of General He’s motives for concealing the truth from the Crown Prince and Emperor, felt compelled to assist Qiu Yan. He also expressed remorse for his earlier harshness in suggesting she become a nun at Jingyun Convent, acknowledging his previous oversight and desiring to make amends.
He knew his presence in the He Residence would be too conspicuous for direct involvement, so he encouraged Qiu Yan to find evidence, be it a person or an object, on her own. With Liang Yi's tacit support, Qiu Yan focused on He Feng's personal maid, Yueying, believing she held key information about He Feng’s past.
However, when Qiu Yan sought to meet Yueying, the He family claimed the maid was deeply loyal and wished to be buried with He Feng, thus isolating herself in seclusion. Qiu Yan was immediately suspicious, noting that Yueying was confined like a prisoner rather than treated with respect, which was unusual for a loyal servant mourning her master. Qiu Yan's attempts to investigate further were quickly noticed by Chunxing, He Feng's maid.
Chunxing, seemingly loyal to the He family, confronted Qiu Yan, accusing her of being overly curious. Qiu Yan, however, cunningly claimed she was merely trying to find some of He Feng's personal items from his study to take with her to Jingyun Convent, to remember him by. While Madam He seemed to believe her, Chunxing was overtly hostile, attempting to prevent Qiu Yan from taking anything of value.
Qiu Yan eventually settled for a simple inkstone, but Chunxing's possessiveness over He Feng's belongings made Qiu Yan suspect her motives. She covertly signaled Qingdai to relay information to Liang Yi. Later, while Chunxing was out fetching tea, Qiu Yan discussed her suspicions with Liang Yi. They deduced that Yueying was likely not only He Feng's secret lover but also the one who poisoned him, with the He parents covering it up to hide the scandal.
To get to Yueying, Qiu Yan devised a plan to provoke Chunxing. After enduring insults from Qiu Yan's servant, Chunxing was deliberately slapped by Qiu Yan, who then taunted her about her impending departure to Jingyun Convent. Enraged, Chunxing secretly pawned He Feng's inkstone to get back at Qiu Yan. Qiu Yan, anticipating this, caught her red-handed with the pawn ticket, knowing Chunxing's true feelings for He Feng would prevent her from simply discarding his belongings.
Cornered and exposed, Chunxing reluctantly led Qiu Yan to Yueying. In Yueying's quarters, the maid confessed a shocking truth. She admitted to poisoning He Feng, but clarified it wasn't out of malice against Qiu Yan. Instead, she revealed He Feng’s secret marriage to a commoner named Zhao Rui, half a year prior during his studies.
He Feng and Zhao Rui had fallen deeply in love and secretly married, even drafting a marriage certificate which Zhao Rui sent to her father, Zhao Mingli. However, He Feng abandoned Zhao Rui upon his arranged marriage to Qiu Yan. Heartbroken, Zhao Rui took her own life by hanging herself. Yueying, who regularly visited Zhao Rui's grave, was approached by a Taoist priest who warned her of a vengeful spirit haunting He Feng.
Believing it was Zhao Rui, Yueying added "talisman water" from the priest to He Feng's tea on his wedding day, hoping to avert disaster, only to inadvertently poison him. Qiu Yan realized the Taoist priest was likely Zhao Mingli, seeking revenge for his daughter's death. She also learned that General He's elite soldiers were already pursuing Zhao Mingli.
Facing a desperate situation, Qiu Yan sought Liang Yi's help to escape the He Residence, emphasizing that finding Zhao Mingli and the marriage certificate was crucial to proving her innocence and revealing the true cause of He Feng's death. Liang Yi, sensing a deeper conspiracy beyond simple revenge, agreed to help. On the day of He Feng's funeral, he orchestrated a dramatic escape.
He arranged for another funeral procession to deliberately block the road, creating a chaotic standoff between the two mourning parties. Amidst the confusion, Liang Yi rescued Qiu Yan and Yueying, instructing them to run towards an archway where Qin Xuan was waiting with a carriage. Liang Yi himself turned back to feign protection for General He, planning to later rendezvous with the others. Beixue had prepared fresh clothes for their escape, and Qiu Yan urged Yueying to change.
However, when Qingdai went to check on her, Yueying had vanished. She was found in a dilapidated temple, desperately praying. Just then, Zhao Mingli entered, confronting Yueying and accusing her of being an accomplice. As Zhao Mingli was about to harm Yueying, Qiu Yan, Qingdai, and Qin Xuan arrived.
Qiu Yan mockingly informed Zhao Mingli that killing Yueying would be foolish, as it would prevent him from ever discovering the true circumstances of Zhao Rui's death, implying that Zhao Rui did not take her own life.
Episode 4 Recap
Qiu Yan firmly believed that Zhao Rui did not commit suicide but was murdered, with her death staged to appear self-inflicted. She presented evidence to Yueying, including a copper coin found clutched in He Feng's hand after his death, clearly a lovers' keepsake. This disproved Yueying's false account of He Feng's betrayal.
Qiu Yan further argued that He Feng's deep affection for Zhao Rui was proven by a "Song of Everlasting Regret" found in his study, penned in profound grief, demonstrating his deep sorrow. Qiu Yan confronted Yueying, demanding the other half of the coin and accusing her of lying about He Feng's character. Under pressure, Yueying confessed that He Feng's parents were behind Zhao Rui's death.
She revealed that they promised her a position as He Feng's concubine if she could ensure he married Qiu Yan. Yueying then detailed how she was forced to lead Zhao Rui to her death, witnessing her being strangled and then hung from a beam to stage a suicide. A fake will was left to make He Feng believe Zhao Rui took her own life to spare him.
Zhao Mingli, Zhao Rui's father, was enraged by Yueying's confession, calling her "heartless" and wishing Yueying had consumed the "heartbreak grass" intended for Zhao Rui. Qiu Yan immediately pointed out that the coroner had reported He Feng died from arsenic, not "heartbreak grass," and that a silver needle wouldn't detect the latter, suggesting a deeper mystery surrounding He Feng's own death.
Shortly after, a group of household guards, ordered by General He, surrounded Qiu Yan, Yueying, and Zhao Mingli in the ruined temple. That night, General He, accompanied by Madam He, arrived, intent on making them scapegoats for He Feng's death. General He attempted to dismiss Zhao Rui's death as a "family business," claiming she committed suicide out of shame, and then accused Zhao Mingli of killing his son.
As General He tried to attack Zhao Mingli, Qiu Yan intervened, warning him that killing Zhao Mingli would only solidify her own false reputation as a "husband killer." She then bravely exposed the true circumstances of He Feng's death, revealing that Zhao Mingli's poison was heartbreak grass, yet the coroner had confirmed He Feng died from arsenic.
Qiu Yan deduced that He Feng must have taken arsenic himself before Yueying could give him the tea, having learned that his parents were responsible for Zhao Rui's death. She further revealed that He Feng had asked Yueying to purchase arsenic for rats the day before the wedding. Unable to confront his parents directly, He Feng committed suicide on his wedding day as an act of revenge.
Madam He was devastated by this revelation, but General He remained unrepentant, labeling Qiu Yan a mere "covering cloth" or "scapegoat" and dismissing her efforts to uncover the truth. Before General He could act further, a group of black-clad figures suddenly appeared, swiftly overpowering his guards. Liang Yi's men took Yueying and Zhao Mingli into custody, transporting them to the Firewood Office. As they returned to the city, they found the streets adorned with vibrant lanterns and bustling with activity.
They soon realized it was for the upcoming Qiqiao Festival. Qiu Yan, having been restricted from leaving her home after sunset by strict family rules, marveled at the city's lively night scene. Qin Xuan suggested they celebrate their narrow escape by exploring the city and enjoying a meal at a renowned restaurant.
Liang Yi initially urged Qin Xuan to take Qiu Yan home due to the late hour, but both Qin Xuan and Qiu Yan insisted on treating him as a token of gratitude for saving them. Liang Yi feigned indifference, implying they simply wanted an excuse to sightsee. He pointed out the famous pickles at Shengxin Restaurant, while Qiu Yan mentioned the exclusive glutinous snacks sold only two days a month at Daoyu Pastry.
While Qin Xuan and Beixue went to buy the snacks, Qiu Yan purchased the final chapter of "The Peculiar Case of Xiangyun," noting how such stories were often embellished to earn money from common folk. To this, Liang Yi retorted that the Firewood Office's investigations were "knife to the bone," not mere "armchair strategizing."
Qiu Yan then recited a line from Qu Yuan's "Far-off Journey," surprising Liang Yi with her knowledge of classical texts, as most women were limited to "Examples for Women." She explained she vowed to read what men read, having promised someone as a child. Observing Liang Yi's rare smile, Qiu Yan expressed her surprise, noting his usual stern demeanor. Drawn to sky lanterns, they decided to light one together.
As the lantern ascended, Qiu Yan noticed the inscription "Purger of Evil" and had a sudden realization. A vivid flashback showed a young Liang Yi telling a young Qiu Yan that she could leave home once she could read all the characters on the fan he gave her, promising his name was written on it. This confirmed to Qiu Yan that Liang Yi was the benefactor from her childhood.
However, her moment of recognition was cut short when Qin Xuan and Beixue returned with the snacks, prompting them to head to the restaurant. The marriage annulment letter was delivered to the Qiu family, stating Qiu Yan's innocence and her freedom to remarry. Simultaneously, the official conclusion of He Feng's death case blamed his maid Yueying and Zhao Mingli, stating they had colluded in a premeditated murder. Both were imprisoned in Fengjing Prefecture Penitentiary and sentenced to execution after autumn.
Outraged that General He seemed to have escaped any consequences, Qiu Yan went to confront Liang Yi. Using Qin Xuan's name as a pretense to meet her, Liang Yi confirmed the annulment. Qiu Yan immediately questioned the injustice, demanding to know why the truth had been twisted and who was protecting the He family. Liang Yi openly admitted that he was the one protecting the He family, citing their rising influence and his reluctance to cross them.
He claimed that his previous interventions to save Qiu Yan had caused him considerable trouble, and he had worked hard to mend relations with the He family, unwilling to jeopardize them again because of her. Qiu Yan challenged his hypocrisy, pointing out his repeated rescues, his failure to expose her when she opened the coffin, and his inaction when she was kidnapped, if he truly feared the He family.
Liang Yi then revealed his calculated motive: he had used her to uncover the truth about the He family, as General He and his son had always defied him. He asserted that with this new leverage, their dynamic had changed. Qiu Yan realized he had used Zhao Mingli and Yueying's lives as "leverage." Liang Yi, in turn, sharply rebuked her, dismissing her as arrogant for thinking she understood people merely because she was educated.
He declared he was never a "righteous servant of justice," and he saved her only because she had "utilitarian value." Qiu Yan, heartbroken and tearful, countered that he was such a person but had simply forgotten. She asked when he decided to use her, concluding it was after she revealed He Feng died of poison.
She then asked if they had met before, to which Liang Yi coldly denied, stating they had only met on the day of the Noble Consort's birthday banquet. Deeply hurt, Qiu Yan left. Later, Song Jin reported to Liang Yi that General He had agreed to all of Liang Yi's demands and would fully cooperate with the Firewood Office in the Ministry of War.
Liang Yi secretly ordered Song Jin to transfer Zhao Mingli and Yueying from the Fengjing Prefecture Penitentiary to the Firewood Office, to protect them from General He's potential retaliation and ensure they would eventually be vindicated. Liang Yi then mused to Song Jin about whether Qiu Yan, the Qiu family's Second Young Lady, seemed familiar, but Song Jin denied it.
The "Chastity Plaque" bestowed upon the Qiu family was returned to the palace, causing the Qiu household to become a subject of ridicule. Qiu Yi, Qiu Yan's second uncle and Qiu Min's father, apologized to the Old Madam for bringing shame upon the family. The Old Madam, distressed by the ensuing rumors and their potential impact on Qiu Min's marriage prospects, declared that Qiu Yan "must be married off immediately."
She asserted that Qiu Yan's departure was essential to safeguard the reputations of the other three girls in the family (Qiu Mei, Qiu Min, and Qiu Ying), stating that for the family to prosper, someone had to make a sacrifice, and Qiu Yan was fated to "suffer a bit more." Meanwhile, Noble Consort Guo summoned Madam Jin, Liang Yi's mother, under the pretense of reminiscing.
In reality, she was instructed by the Emperor to arrange a marriage for Liang Yi, who, as the head of the Firewood Office, was becoming too powerful and unconstrained. The Emperor sought to tie him down. Liang Yi, understanding the underlying motive, initially feigned disinterest in marriage due to his busy duties. However, Madam Jin urged him to accept, emphasizing the Noble Consort's offer as a "great blessing" and her own concerns.
Presented with a list of eligible women from prominent families, Liang Yi deliberately chose Qiu Min, the second daughter of Qiu Yi, an official with a low rank and no political affiliations. He defended his choice by describing Qiu Min as "shy, reserved, mannered, and honest," claiming she was "completely different from her sister," Qiu Yan, whom Madam Jin had disparaged as "not well-behaved."
Liang Yi later confided in Song Jin that his choice was a strategic move to appease the Emperor, who feared his growing influence. By choosing Qiu Min, a discreet and unaligned figure from a family whose late patriarch still commanded respect, Liang Yi aimed to demonstrate his humility and establish useful connections for the Firewood Office's future endeavors. He admitted he barely remembered Qiu Min, caring only that she wasn't "troublesome like Qiu Yan."
The Qin family hosted a banquet for the Qiu family's female members, pointedly omitting Qiu Yan, while inviting Qiu Mei, Qiu Min, and Qiu Ying. As Qiu Min prepared for the event, eager to uphold the "honor of the Second Chamber," she requested to borrow Qiu Yan's cherished folding fan adorned with Verses of Chu.
Although Madam Han, Qiu Yan's mother, initially hesitated, Qiu Yan readily handed over the fan, dismissing it as "nothing precious" and just an old item she wanted to replace. Madam Han noticed Qiu Yan's underlying unhappiness, but Qiu Yan feigned indifference, echoing her mother's past advice: "My heart is an untainted land. If I don't take anything to heart, then I will become invincible."
At the banquet, the absence of Qiu Yan was noted, with a relative remarking that Qiu Yan's name, being a single character "Yan," implied she was "raised by a concubine" and thus "could not be included in the family tree." Separately, the Old Madam had arranged a marriage for Qiu Yan with an elderly Mr. Jia, who already had numerous wives and maids, essentially sending her into a "wolf's den."
Madam Han vehemently tried to reject the proposal, but Qiu Yi, Qiu Yan's second uncle and Qiu Min's father, intervened, insisting that Qiu Yan must accept to protect the reputations of the other girls, including Qiu Min, and secure her status as a "rightful wife." When the matchmaker from the Jia family arrived, Madam Liu, Qiu Yan's step-mother, eagerly brought Qiu Yan forward. Recognizing her desperate situation, Qiu Yan took matters into her own hands.
She fabricated a story about a congenital illness that caused her to be infertile, claiming that any potential child would likely be "deformed or have jaundice or hernia" and that recovery would require daily consumption of expensive herbs like "ginseng, bird nest, and ganoderma" for "three to five years." Despite Madam Liu's attempts to dismiss her words as a "joke," the horrified matchmaker quickly excused herself, promising to report back to Mr. Jia.
Episode 5 Recap
After finishing his conversation with Qin Xuan’s father, Liang Yi decided to visit Qin Xuan. He found Qin Xuan in the study and revealed that Zhao Mingli and Yueying were not imprisoned in Fengjing Prefecture as believed, but were secretly protected at the Firewood Office. Qin Xuan was overjoyed by this news and immediately wanted to write to Qiu Yan to put her mind at ease, but Liang Yi stopped him, warning that revealing the truth would endanger their lives.
Later, Liang Yi discovered a folding fan on the desk. A servant identified it as belonging to Qiu Min, Qiu Yan’s younger sister and also Qin Xuan's cousin. This made Liang Yi realize that Qiu Min was the "little girl" he had rescued years ago. He observed that she was now well-educated and appeared to have no memory of their past encounter, which he mused was for the best, allowing her to forget unpleasant memories.
Meanwhile, Qiu Yan was deeply troubled by her impending marriage. Qingdai worried that after Qiu Yan’s earlier scene with the matchmaker, no one would dare to propose to her. Qiu Yan, however, welcomed the quiet. Qingdai cautioned her that while her Second Madam might tolerate her staying home indefinitely, the Old Madam and other family members would not. Qiu Yan lamented the limited options for women, wishing they could freely read and choose their partners, unburdened by their families' disdain.
Just then, Qin Xuan’s gift arrived. Qingdai, expecting a jade pendant like those received by the First and Fourth Young Ladies, was disappointed to find a wooden hairpin and initially dismissed it as worthless, calling Qin Xuan a snob. Qiu Yan, however, saw deeper meaning in the hairpin, understanding it as a message to overcome her confinement and not wallow in self-pity, connecting it to the poem "Lonely smoke straight in the desert."
She eagerly asked Qingdai to help her wear it. Elsewhere, Madam Jin had prepared betrothal gifts for Liang Yi to present to the Qiu family. Liang Yi, however, instructed his servant to delay the proposal for several days. He confessed that he was concerned about Qiu Min's true feelings, especially since she was the girl he had once saved. He refused to use his past kindness to coerce her into marriage, believing it dishonorable.
The following day, Liang Yi sent his subordinate to Marquis Yongming Residence. Soon after, the Qiu family received an an invitation to a Chuiwan Party hosted by the Marquis Yongming Residence. The family was surprised, as historically, only children of officials ranked third-grade or higher were eligible to attend, and their Second Brother was merely a fourth-grade official. They quickly realized the event served as an informal gathering for royal princes and noble sons to scout potential brides.
Old Madam decided that three young ladies from the Qiu family would attend, but explicitly excluded Qiu Yan, citing her delicate health and need for recuperation. Despite this, Qiu Yan was determined to thank Qin Xuan for his gift, planning to meet him at the party. She later sent a message to Liang Yi, implicitly reminding him of a past incident where he had replaced her gift to the Noble Consort with a stone, indicating he owed her a favor.
She gambled that he would not want to be indebted to her. Liang Yi acknowledged her request, understanding that she wanted his help to secure an invitation to the Chuiwan Party after her engagement with the He family was broken, which had caused her family to lose face and prompted them to keep her from public appearances. Liang Yi’s subordinate, Song Jin, questioned Qiu Yan's motives, suggesting she was a social climber, a sentiment Liang Yi echoed, calling her "shameless."
Despite Liang Yi's initial reluctance and scorn, Madam Yongming soon arrived at the Qiu Residence with four sets of exquisite scented rosewood Chuiwan Rods, one of which was specifically for Qiu Yan. Qingdai was surprised by Liang Yi's unexpected assistance. Qiu Yan, however, saw it as a reciprocal act, given Liang Yi's past manipulations. Madam Han, Qiu Yan’s mother, questioned how Qiu Yan knew Madam Yongming.
Qiu Yan explained it was related to Qin Xuan and the hairpin, then confessed her deep desire to avoid a forced marriage to an unknown man. She likened the hairpin to "skyglow in the dark clouds," a glimmer of hope she desperately wanted to grasp.
Recalling her mother’s words about the hardships faced by women, Qiu Yan declared she was unafraid to fight for her destiny and choose a truly worthy partner, asserting her right to be proactive in her own fate. On the day of the Chuiwan Party, the Marquis Yongming Residence buzzed with activity, filled with young nobles. Many ladies flocked around Qin Xuan, eager for his attention and the fruit cakes he offered. Qiu Yan observed the scene, noting Liang Yi’s presence.
She privately remarked on Liang Yi’s "mad for power" nature when he passed by. Qiu Mei and Qiu Ying tried to engage Qin Xuan, asking him to teach them Chuiwan, but he politely directed them to Young Master Meng, an expert player. Qin Xuan then approached Qiu Yan, asking if she liked the hairpin he had sent. Qiu Yan replied that she appreciated it but chose not to wear it during the busy competition to avoid damage.
Qin Xuan admitted he made it himself, fearing she might find it too coarse. As Qin Xuan was led away by other ladies, Qiu Yan reflected that she didn't possess exceptional beauty or talent to expect exclusive attention. Instead, she resolved to make him notice her through her own actions and abilities. Meanwhile, Liang Yi’s subordinate, Song Jin, pointed out Qiu Min practicing alone, suggesting she too was interested in Qin Xuan.
When it was time for participants to offer prizes for the winner, Qiu Yan put forward her wooden hairpin. Qiu Ying immediately disparaged it, calling it embarrassing. However, Qiu Mei recognized it as a rare and valuable Golden Silk Nan Ebony hairpin, chiding Qiu Yan for her ignorance. Qiu Ying then pressured Qiu Yan to use it as her prize.
Before Qiu Yan could be forced, Liang Yi intervened, asserting that a gentleman would not take what others cherished and questioning why they would force her. He then offered to provide a prize for Qiu Yan, presenting her with a jade thumb ring, advising her to cherish gifts, even if she disliked them. Qiu Yan, knowing Liang Yi had foiled her plan to test Qin Xuan and expose her cousins, felt annoyed by his meddling.
Liang Yi, speaking to Song Jin, revealed his true motive: he considered Qiu Yan cunning and wanted to keep a close eye on her. He intended to preemptively disrupt any potential relationship between Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan by appearing to help her, thereby discouraging Qin Xuan from competing with him for her attention. The preliminary round of the Chuiwan competition began. During the match, Qiu Ying intentionally tried to trip Qiu Yan and aimed her Chuiwan rod at her.
Anticipating this, Qiu Yan swiftly dodged behind Qiu Mei, causing Qiu Ying to accidentally hit Qiu Mei instead. Qiu Yan then feigned a fall, prompting the host to announce Madam Yongming’s decision to disqualify Qiu Ying for unsportsmanlike conduct. Liang Yi observed Qiu Yan’s calculated moves, realizing she had cleverly orchestrated the situation to eliminate her rivals, the First and Fourth Young Ladies, through a series of provocations.
As Qiu Yan lay on the ground, seemingly injured, Liang Yi approached, offering to carry her. He quietly remarked that her feigned injury was becoming more suspicious the more she moved. He admitted that he knew she was faking it but didn't expose her because he didn't want her to be angry with him, adding that he "couldn't bear" to see her interacting with other men on the field.
Qin Xuan approached, concerned, and Qiu Yan assured him she was fine, expressing her desire for a fair competition with him. Qin Xuan then directly confronted Liang Yi, asking if he had "fallen for that girl." Liang Yi advised him to stay away from Qiu Yan, but Qin Xuan refused to listen on this matter. Qin Xuan ultimately won the match.
He then presented the prizes to Liang Yi, declaring that he won not for the awards, but to prove he could win Qiu Yan’s heart. Liang Yi, seemingly unfazed, instructed Song Jin to distribute the prizes to all the participants, stating that Qin Xuan believed "sharing is caring." From the distributed prizes, Qiu Yan selected the jade thumb ring, returning it to Liang Yi and stating her desire to "not owe anyone any favors."
Later, Qiu Yan instructed Qingdai to find an excuse to lure Qin Xuan away, ensuring Liang Yi would not know. Meanwhile, Liang Yi was patiently teaching Qiu Min how to play Chuiwan, noting her shyness compared to her earlier composure. Qiu Min mentioned their previous encounter at Duke Ying Residence. Song Jin urged Liang Yi to intervene with Qin Xuan and Qiu Yan, expressing concern that Qin Xuan was again being swayed by the "cunning vixen."
Liang Yi instructed Song Jin to continue teaching Qiu Min instead, allowing him to approach Qin Xuan and Qiu Yan. Qin Xuan offered Qiu Yan a poria cake he had personally made for her. Qiu Yan, however, refused it, stating that if he treated everyone with the same kindness, she would rather not accept his exclusive gesture, and then walked away.
Liang Yi then approached Qin Xuan, openly questioning what made Qin Xuan superior to him, pointing out their similar backgrounds and accomplishments. He reiterated his negative view of Qiu Yan, accusing her of being cunning and seeking to climb the social ladder by seducing Qin Xuan for his family's status.
Qin Xuan, feeling Liang Yi's deep prejudice against Qiu Yan, proposed a bet for the final round: if he won, Liang Yi must cease interfering in his affairs with Qiu Yan.
Episode 6 Recap
The last round of the Chuiwan competition commenced, with participants required to provide an earring or a marked folding fan to be paired as teammates by Madam Yongming Hou, with the winning pair receiving a prize from the Noble Consort. Qiu Min expressed a wish to be teamed with Qin Xuan, but was initially paired with Liang Yi by Madam Yongming Hou.
Qiu Yan, overhearing rumors that the Noble Consort was arranging a marriage for Marquis Wenyuan and fearing he was a "living Yamla," quickly swapped earrings with Qiu Min, resulting in Qiu Yan being teamed with Liang Yi and Qiu Min with Qin Xuan. Liang Yi observed Qiu Yan's actions, noting she had cleverly separated her sister from him. Qiu Yan confronted him, accusing him of trying to approach her sister.
Liang Yi clarified that his intention was to pursue Qiu Yan herself, stating he desired to keep her away from Qin Xuan. Qiu Yan questioned what he saw in her, to which he replied she was good at Chuiwan and "not ugly." During the match, Liang Yi suggested that his marquis title was more substantial than Qin Xuan's status as a non-eldest son, implying Qiu Yan should consider marrying him.
Qiu Yan scoffed, questioning if he thought she was only interested in Qin Xuan's family status. Despite her disinterest, Qiu Yan encouraged Qiu Min to play well and beat Liang Yi, declaring she was not on Liang Yi's team, while Qin Xuan reassured Qiu Min that winning or losing didn't matter and he would support her.
Though Qiu Min's skills were limited, Liang Yi, who had initially held back, displayed his true prowess, securing victory for his team with Qiu Yan. After the match, Qiu Yan accused Liang Yi of despicable behavior, asserting he had pretended to approach her only to prove her a "woman of easy virtue." Liang Yi countered that she had equally defamed him in front of Qiu Min.
Qin Xuan, accepting his defeat in the game, firmly stated his belief in his connection with Qiu Yan. Despite their obvious animosity, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan maintained a facade of civility. All attendees then proceeded to a flower-viewing banquet at Marquis Yongming Residence, where Qiu Yan privately cautioned Qiu Min to distance herself from Liang Yi.
Qiu Yan explained her suspicion that Liang Yi's interest in Qiu Min stemmed from a calculated assessment of the Qiu family's esteemed lineage and her father's influential connections, believing it would subtly aid Liang Yi's career advancement while allowing him to easily control Qiu Min due to her gentle nature. Qiu Yan, having dealt with Liang Yi before, was convinced his actions were solely driven by self-interest.
Qiu Min then asked Qiu Yan if her pursuit of Qin Xuan was similar to Liang Yi's calculated maneuvers. Qiu Yan candidly admitted to wanting Qin Xuan's favor and using tactics to achieve it, confessing that his treatment of her during the day had deepened her initial fondness, offering her a ray of hope for her bleak future. Qiu Min, though saddened, offered her congratulations.
Meanwhile, in a side courtyard, Aunt Kou recounted the Chuiwan results to other madams, noting that Fourth Young Lady Qiu Ying was disqualified, First Young Lady Qiu Mei was injured, and Second Young Lady Qiu Yan had won the jade ruyi and stolen the show. Expressing their displeasure, Madam Qian proposed marrying Qiu Yan to a newly rich distant relative who sought concubines.
They planned to approach Old Madam after Madam Han departed for Taiying Temple, reasoning that Qiu Yan's current reputation would make such an arrangement seem beneficial for her. Separately, Qiu Ying apologized to Qiu Mei for her injury during the match, attempting to shift blame to Qiu Yan. Qiu Mei, frustrated, dismissed her.
Qiu Ying then subtly reminded Qiu Mei that both suffered setbacks while Qiu Yan gained prominence, further asserting that only a legitimate daughter like Qiu Mei, or at least a reputable lady like herself, was suitable for Qin Xuan, not a "second-hand good" like Qiu Yan. Qiu Mei, recognizing Qiu Ying's desire to undermine Qiu Yan, agreed to conspire.
Qiu Ying then found Young Master Meng, flattered him, and presented him with a handkerchief embroidered with the character "Yan," implying it was a gift from Qiu Yan to tarnish her reputation. Young Master Meng, flattered, began spreading the rumor. Qin Xuan intervened, claiming the handkerchief was his own, embroidered with "Yan" for a beloved actress named Yan Xiang.
When Young Master Meng persisted, Liang Yi surprisingly corroborated Qin Xuan's story, stating he had seen Qin Xuan use it, thereby preserving Qiu Yan's reputation. Upon hearing about the incident, Qiu Yan rushed to find Qin Xuan. However, Liang Yi intercepted her, claiming Qin Xuan was discussing privately with Young Master Meng elsewhere, and then lured her onto a boat on a lake.
Distraught, Qiu Yan demanded he stop the boat and reveal Qin Xuan's whereabouts, accusing Liang Yi of despicable interference due to her opposition to his pursuit of Qiu Min. Liang Yi retorted that her self-righteousness was exposed and that he would marry Qiu Min regardless. He then criticized Qiu Yan for using affection to secure a wealthy husband, warning her to stay away from Qin Xuan, his close friend. Qiu Yan defended herself, denying seducing Young Master Meng.
When Liang Yi cited Young Master Meng's claim, Qiu Yan logically explained that if she intended to manipulate him, she wouldn't openly embroider her name on the handkerchief. She also pointed out that the embroidery technique used was one she hated and was only known by Qiu Ying in her family, implicating Qiu Ying in the frame-up. She urged Liang Yi to investigate Qiu Ying, then disembarked.
Qiu Yan then reflected on her life, asserting that true love doesn't always "fall into place" and that pursuing a suitable partner was no different from striving in any other profession. She argued that if she didn't seize the current opportunity, her grandmother intended to marry her off as a concubine to a dying old man, trapping her in a life of endless competition.
She declared that while Liang Yi saw her as a social climber and others as a "broken woman," only Qin Xuan treated her with respect. She challenged Liang Yi, asking how much sincerity he truly held for her sister, Qiu Min, before walking away. As dusk settled, Qiu Yan returned to Marquis Yongming Residence to find Qin Xuan still waiting for her in the garden.
He dismissed her attempts to explain the handkerchief incident, assuring her he knew she was innocent and that his anger was directed at Young Master Meng for publicly slandering her. Qin Xuan promised to believe in her regardless of rumors. He then led her to a night-blooming cereus, a flower he had been watching all day, hoping it would bloom despite predictions it wouldn't.
Qiu Yan shared her past struggles, recounting how her Madam had favored her younger brother and mistreated her, leaving her feeling that life hadn't improved even as she grew up. She dismissed the words of a Taiying Temple master about fate and compensation for past hardships as mere comfort. Qin Xuan, however, revealed that he had intervened to help Mr. Zhao and Miss Yueying, who had suffered injustice, ensuring their safety despite further imprisonment.
Witnessing the night-blooming cereus finally blossom, slowly but surely, Qiu Yan felt a renewed sense of hope, acknowledging that the good times would eventually come. Before departing for Taiying Temple, Madam Han instructed Madam Dong at the East Side Door to facilitate the exchange of letters and gifts between Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan. Qin Xuan, aware of Qiu Yan's love for legal case novels, personally copied unprinted chapters of "Donghu Grievance Collection" for her, which she greatly appreciated.
Upon Duke Ying's return home, he expressed concern about Qin Xuan's frequent outings and suggested arranging a marriage with Minister Xue's daughter. Qin Xuan immediately declined, stating he had no intention of marrying and instead requested to join the Imperial Guards Camp in the suburb of the capital for training.
He explained that as a descendant of the Qin family, he wished to gain achievements and honor for his parents, and that serving in the camp would give him the necessary clout to propose to Qiu Yan in the future without parental objection. Duke Ying, impressed by his ambition, agreed to sign him up. Liang Yi, holding a position of trust within the palace, gained an advantage.
He appeared before the Emperor, presenting evidence against Xia Zhengji, an official of the Ministry of Revenue, for embezzling hundreds of thousands of taels of public funds. The Emperor, preoccupied with cultivating immortality and building temples, was short on funds, particularly for the three new temples he wished to construct in the imperial park. Liang Yi proposed a solution: have the clans and scholars in the capital donate to share the cost of construction.
Though Xia Zhengji protested his innocence, the Emperor immediately ordered his residence sealed and his assets seized. The recovered funds, including large amounts of gold, silver, and jade artifacts, were to be handed over to the Ministry of Works for the temple construction. It was also discovered that 11,000 taels of the seized silver notes were forged, prompting Liang Yi to order further investigation into Xia Zhengji.
News of the Firewood Office's overnight raid on the Xia family spread quickly, causing widespread panic in the capital. Old Madam, aware that the mandatory donations were unavoidable, tasked Madam Xu with handling their family's contribution of 5,000 taels. Given recent heavy flooding and diminished harvests, she urged all chambers to be more frugal.
Madam Qian, however, seized the opportunity to revisit her plan for Qiu Yan, mentioning her wealthy distant relative who would pay generously for a woman from the Qiu family. Old Madam firmly rejected the idea of marrying Qiu Yan off as a concubine, stating that Qiu Yan, despite her flaws, had committed no serious offense that would justify such a fate, and that it would shame the family. Madam Jiang and Madam Mi remained silent.
Unfazed by the rejection, Madam Qian noted Old Madam's condition that Qiu Yan had committed "no serious mistake," implying that if Qiu Yan were to commit one, her plan might become viable. Despite the growing pile of gifts exchanged between Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan, their relationship remained at a standstill, with neither willing to confess their feelings first. Qiu Yan believed that in love, as in chess, the first to reveal their heart loses the advantage.
However, hearing rumors that the Qin family was actively seeking a wife for Qin Xuan, and acknowledging his popularity, Qiu Yan realized she couldn't afford to wait. Deciding she needed to prompt Qin Xuan to make the first move, she disguised herself and arranged to meet him privately at the Heming Building opera house.
Qin Xuan and Qiu Yan's private meeting at the Heming Building, while enjoying the Hualin Troupe's performance, was unexpectedly witnessed by Liang Yi, who was there with his mother, Madam Jin. Liang Yi, upon seeing Qiu Yan disguised as a servant, deliberately made cutting remarks, mocking her appearance and status, and accusing her and Qin Xuan of secretly dating in disguise. He implied Qin Xuan had committed a "major offense."
Madam Jin intervened, urging Liang Yi to be more polite, acknowledging Qin Xuan's character, and telling Qiu Yan that it was acceptable not to know rules if she was willing to learn, though stressing the importance of a servant's observation skills.
Meanwhile, news of Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan's secret meeting at the Heming Building quickly reached First Madam, who was urged by her subordinates to act, suggesting that catching Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan red-handed would provide irrefutable proof of her violating family rules, placing Qiu Yan at First Madam's mercy.
Despite concerns about embarrassing the Qin family, the First Madam's attendants pressed on, highlighting that their own daughters were unlikely to marry into the Duke Ying Residence, and that Qiu Yan's advancement should be prevented, especially given the family's financial needs.
Episode 7 Recap
Learning from her subordinates that Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan were secretly meeting, Madam Kou immediately approached First Madam to propose catching them publicly. This would confirm Qiu Yan had violated Qiu family rules, allowing them to deal with her as they pleased. Although First Madam initially hesitated, concerned about disgracing the Qiu family, Madam Kou's persistent urging eventually secured her silent consent.
Meanwhile, at an opera performance featuring "Autumn River," Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan watched a story unfold about the Taoist nun Miaochang and Scholar Pan, whose love defied societal norms, leading to their forced separation before Pan's eventual success and their reunion. Liang Yi, however, dismissed the tale as superficial, accusing such narratives of merely satisfying women's fantasies.
Qiu Yan, annoyed by his cynical remarks and constant demands, cleverly retaliated by soaking a napkin in liquor and giving it to him, knowing he had an injury, and watched smugly as he endured the pain. Later, while discussing the opera's themes of commitment during separation, Qiu Yan pressed Qin Xuan for his feelings. As Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan departed in a carriage, Liang Yi, observing from a distance, noticed they were being followed.
He discreetly warned them to take a detour. Shortly after, Madam Kou, with a group of her retainers, intercepted the carriage. To her surprise, only Liang Yi and Song Jin were inside. Meanwhile, Qin Xuan had pulled Qiu Yan into a nearby alley to escape. However, Madam Kou's retainers split up, eventually spotting Qiu Yan. To elicit a public declaration from Qin Xuan, Qiu Yan feigned a twisted ankle while fleeing, hoping to force his hand.
Madam Kou caught up, accusing them of illicit private conduct, drawing a large crowd. Marquis Yongming, Qin Xuan’s father, arrived, furious at the public spectacle. He vehemently demanded that Qin Xuan and Qiu Yan end their relationship immediately. Despite his father's wrath, Qin Xuan bravely declared his profound love for Qiu Yan, vowing to marry only her in this life. Marquis Yongming, enraged, ordered their immediate separation, and both were forcibly taken back to their respective residences.
Back at the Qiu residence, Qiu Yan knelt in the ancestral hall, facing her father Qiu Yi's harsh reprimands. Yet, she remained steadfast in her resolve, asserting that she had chosen Qin Xuan and had no regrets, no matter the consequences. Concurrently, Old Madam Qiu, deeply shamed by the day's events, instructed First Madam to promptly arrange a marriage for Qiu Yan with a distant relative, prioritizing speed over dowry to quickly dispatch what she considered a "disaster."
Afterwards, Old Madam Qiu dismissed everyone except First Madam and Madam Kou, severely scolding them for their impulsive actions that disregarded the Qiu family's honor. As punishment, both were docked half a year's allowance. As night fell, Qiu Yan, famished from kneeling all day, ate some offerings.
Qiu Min then visited her, confessing that she was the one who had informed Madam Kou of Qiu Yan's whereabouts, knowing it would lead to a public humiliation rather than a mere family scolding. This revelation shocked Qiu Yan, who then realized Qiu Min harbored feelings for Qin Xuan and that her actions were driven by resentment. Qiu Yan, however, firmly stated that she would not relinquish Qin Xuan willingly, proposing they compete fairly for his affection.
Qiu Min, admitting her own inability to compete with Qiu Yan's cunning and acknowledging the family's favoritism towards Qiu Yan, bitterly refused. She expressed frustration at Qiu Yan's seemingly virtuous facade and her own helplessness in openly fighting for her love, contrasting it with Qiu Yan's willingness to use any means necessary while she herself was bound by societal and family expectations.
Meanwhile, Song Jin reported to Liang Yi about a significant discovery: fake silver notes circulating among banks in the capital. These notes were meticulously crafted, replicating genuine paper, seals, patterns, and even secret codes, making them almost indistinguishable from real ones, identifiable only through specific bank records. A conservative estimate placed the total value of these fake notes at over two million taels.
Adding to the crisis, the Ministry of Revenue also reported that the Qiu family had submitted some of these counterfeit notes among their recent contributions. Liang Yi personally delivered the grim news to Qiu Yi, who expressed profound gratitude, feeling that Liang Yi had saved his family from ruin. Liang Yi explained his actions were driven by respect for Qiu Yi's integrity, not personal gain.
At the same time, Qiu Yan learned that Qin Xuan had been grounded and was unable to send letters. Determined to see him, she attempted to sneak out of the mansion, only to encounter Liang Yi. She pleaded with him for assistance in leaving, but Liang Yi, highly perceptive, saw through her pleas. He pointed out her past calculated actions, such as her feigned injury to force Qin Xuan's public vow, and refused to aid her.
Instead, he rendered her unconscious and handed her over to the Qiu family with strict instructions to keep her confined. Waking up in the woodshed, Qiu Yan overheard servants discussing the fake silver notes crisis, including the three thousand taels deficit in the family fund. A plan quickly formed in her mind, and she began shouting to be let out.
The Qiu household was in utter chaos over the sudden discovery of the fake silver notes and the immediate need to cover a three thousand tael deficit before the donation deadline. First Madam was distraught, and while Qiu Yi offered his modest savings of a few hundred taels, it was a mere fraction of what was needed. The Third and Fourth Chambers, already indebted to the family fund, could offer no substantial help.
With no other recourse, Old Madam Qiu reluctantly considered selling ancestral land, a decision that deeply pained the family. At this critical juncture, Qiu Yan stepped forward, offering to personally investigate the fake notes and recover the three thousand taels within three days. Her condition was clear: if she succeeded, her marriage would be decided by herself, free from family interference. Desperate, Old Madam Qiu accepted.
Following this, Qiu Yan, accompanied by Madam Xu, began searching all the chambers within the Qiu residence, which naturally caused resentment among the family members. However, with Old Madam Qiu's authority backing them, no one dared to openly defy. Eventually, Madam Xu discovered a fake silver note in Qiu Rong's room, a son of the Second Chamber.
Qiu Rong, kneeling in the hall, claimed innocence, stating he had merely retrieved a jar of Western candied fruit from the kitchen and was unaware of any silver note inside. His uncles and aunts disbelieved him, demanding Qiu Yi punish his son according to family rules. Madam Liu attempted to defend Qiu Rong, pleading for leniency due to his youth.
However, Qiu Yan, without a word, decisively took a wooden stick and began to beat Qiu Rong on his back, silencing all further protests and firmly asserting her authority in the investigation.
Episode 8 Recap
After Rong'er was punished, Qiu Yan visited Madam Liu, bringing "Jade Ointment," a rare medicine from vassal states, to treat Rong'er's injuries. Madam Liu, however, expressed disdain, believing Qiu Yan was merely trying to curry favor with Madam Han and that they wanted nothing from her.
Despite Madam Liu's rejection, Qiu Yan remained steadfast, urging Madam Liu to be stricter with Rong'er in the future, stating that if he hadn't stolen to impress a maid, he wouldn't have faced such consequences. Madam Liu was enraged, accusing Qiu Yan of lecturing her. Qiu Yan left the medicine, and Madam Liu implied she wouldn't be foolish enough to let a good medicine go unused. The next morning, Qiu Yan ventured out alone to investigate, unexpectedly encountering Qin Xuan.
Qin Xuan revealed he had followed her because he knew she would put herself in danger and felt compelled to protect her, asserting that the matter concerned them both. He dismissed her concerns about his family finding out, saying he was favored and could handle any repercussions. After enjoying wonton dumplings, which Qin Xuan declared better than his chef's, they discussed finding the source of the fake silver notes.
Qiu Yan, having already gathered preliminary information about the bustling Ruyi Gambling House, explained that small merchants would not accept large denominations. Instead, they should target places that commonly handled significant sums, such as gambling houses, where mixing real and fake notes would be less noticeable. At a wonton stall near the gambling house, Qiu Yan inquired with the owner about any past incidents of customers using fake silver notes at the gambling establishment.
The owner confirmed such occurrences were frequent, happening once or twice a month, usually involving gamblers desperate to recover their losses. Qiu Yan then asked to be introduced to one of the regular customers who frequented both the stall and the gambling house. Through the owner, they met Yao Gai, who led them to a seemingly ordinary Joss paper store.
Yao Gai revealed it was the largest distributor of fake silver notes in the Capital, operating with impunity due to backing from officials in the Fengjing Prefecture. He warned them not to mention his involvement. Instead of giving him money, Qin Xuan arranged for Yao Gai to receive two bowls of wonton dumplings daily for a year, urging him to cease gambling.
Inside the Joss paper store, Qiu Yan, posing as a desperate gambler deep in debt, boldly asked the shopkeeper for "money for the living," meaning fake silver notes. Initially hesitant, the shopkeeper's demeanor changed, and he invited them to the back. However, as they entered the courtyard, a group of thugs appeared, surrounding them. The shopkeeper, noticing the exquisite jade pendant on Qin Xuan's waist, immediately saw through their disguise, realizing he was far from a penniless gambler.
Qin Xuan, with no further means to conceal his identity, revealed himself as the Second Young Master of the Duke Ying Residence. The shopkeeper's hostile attitude instantly shifted to one of deferential politeness. The shopkeeper explained that their fake notes were typically of small denominations, with the highest being ten taels. He vehemently denied producing the three-thousand-tael note Qiu Yan possessed, asserting that no official would cover them if they dared to print such a large amount.
However, he admitted that the intricate mark on Qiu Yan's fake note was identical to one their own engraving expert, Xiao Tie, used to embed as a security measure. Xiao Tie had left their employ six months prior, and the shopkeeper had assumed he had retired from the illicit trade. Now, it appeared Xiao Tie had found a new patron. The shopkeeper provided Xiao Tie's last known address.
Following the shopkeeper's lead, Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan arrived at Xiao Tie's dwelling in a civilian area, only to find Liang Yi and Song Jin already there, having also tracked Xiao Tie down. Their attempts to claim priority in the investigation were cut short when Xiao Tie appeared, immediately instigating a riot among the local beggars by falsely claiming government officials were there to drive out the homeless and then scattering silver notes to create a chaotic scramble.
Xiao Tie then seized a young child, holding him hostage. Liang Yi swiftly confronted Xiao Tie, threatening to make his own children suffer if he did not release the hostage. With quick precision, Liang Yi incapacitated Xiao Tie, causing him to pass out. Qin Xuan expressed concern that Liang Yi had killed him, but Liang Yi assured them Xiao Tie was only unconscious.
Liang Yi then pointed out Qiu Yan's three-day deadline to resolve her family's internal strife, which Qin Xuan confirmed was to avoid being forced into marriage. Liang Yi refused to cooperate with them, asserting that Xiao Tie was now his exclusive lead. As Liang Yi prepared to transport the unconscious Xiao Tie, a volley of arrows suddenly rained down from hidden assailants. Liang Yi was overwhelmed, unable to protect Xiao Tie.
Seizing the opportunity, Xiao Tie attempted to escape but was struck by an arrow and died. Despite the chaos, Qiu Yan managed to catch a glimpse of the assassin. She approached Liang Yi, offering to provide crucial information about the killer, but only on the condition of a mutual cooperation. She proposed that if she shared her lead, Liang Yi would in turn help her uncover the internal thief within her family within the same three-day deadline.
She promised to accept the outcome without complaint if they failed. Liang Yi, however, scoffed, suspecting she was colluding with the assassins. He ordered Song Jin to shackle both Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan and imprison them in the Firewood Office jail, specifically in the "Sky One cell," which was in fact an outdoor cage. Qin Xuan protested vehemently, but Liang Yi asserted his authority.
Qin Xuan, who had grown up with Liang Yi, lamented how much his friend had changed, recalling his once righteous and compassionate nature before he joined the Firewood Office. Liang Yi later returned to the civilian area where Xiao Tie was found, seeking out the old man who had led the initial disturbance. A young beggar boy approached him, handing over a wooden token he had stolen from the old man, who had since vanished.
Meanwhile, Qiu Min arrived at the Firewood Office, seeking Liang Yi's help to find Qiu Yan and resolve her sister's predicament. Liang Yi, noting the stark contrast between the sisters' personalities, gently reassured Qiu Min and sent her home after she expressed her gratitude. After Qiu Min departed, Song Jin unlocked the cage, explaining that Liang Yi's actions were merely a tactic to intimidate them and ensure their protection.
Liang Yi then ordered Qiu Yan to come out, leaving Qin Xuan confined. Qiu Yan, remembering Qin Xuan's earlier remark about Liang Yi's soft spot for women in distress, adopted a demeanor of profound remorse and weakness. She apologized profusely to Liang Yi, praising his judgment and admitting her own "unworthy" and "frivolous" nature.
She dramatically declared her decision to break off all ties with Qin Xuan, stating she was unfit to marry into the Duke Ying Residence but also unwilling to be a concubine, and humbly requested Liang Yi's aid. Liang Yi, however, saw through her act, sarcastically noting her similarity to her younger sister.
When he mentioned Qiu Min's visit, Qiu Yan immediately dropped her pretense, her voice sharp with concern as she demanded to know what he had done to her sister and warned him against using Qiu Min to coerce her. Liang Yi retorted that he preferred her "flustered" look, revealing that Qiu Min had indeed come to him, begging for help for her "hopeless sister." He then explicitly stated his intention to marry Qiu Min, making her requests his commands.
After informing Qiu Yan that Qiu Min had already returned home, Liang Yi presented the wooden token from the old man, demanding Qiu Yan analyze it, reminding her that time was quickly running out. Qiu Yan examined the wooden token. She noted its modest appearance but fine craftsmanship, particularly the smooth, rounded edges, indicating it was frequently handled. The token was carved with a Chinese peony. She initially speculated it might be from an apothecary, used to identify medicinal herbs.
Liang Yi immediately refuted this, prompting her to reconsider. After a moment, Qiu Yan surmised that such a frequently handled item, if not a precious treasure, must be a sentimental keepsake. She deduced it was likely given by a woman associated with the Chinese peony, perhaps fond of the flower or named after it. She concluded that such an item was most likely from a brothel.
Liang Yi confirmed her deduction, revealing he had already summoned all brothel records from the Fengjing Prefecture. Song Jin brought the voluminous files, and Liang Yi explained that he had already anticipated this line of inquiry. By cross-referencing the brothel opening dates with Xiao Tie's departure from his previous employer, they could narrow down the possibilities. Fortuitously, only one brothel matched the timeline.
Episode 9 Recap
Qiu Yan, disguised as a man, accompanied Liang Yi to Wanyan House. Before entering, at the Firewood Office's dressing room, Qiu Yan insisted on choosing her own male attire and even sticking on a mustache herself, proclaiming her familiarity with opera. Song Jin, Liang Yi's subordinate, noted her handsome appearance in men's clothing. Liang Yi instructed Qiu Yan to remember her male identity, to which she agreed, emphasizing their partnership.
Liang Yi had also set a three-hour time limit for Song Jin, instructing him to intervene if they didn't emerge by then. While preparing to enter, Liang Yi asked Qiu Yan why she hadn't informed Qin Xuan of their venture. Qiu Yan responded that she didn't want him to worry and follow, which would make them a bigger target, and she didn't want him to risk danger for her.
When Liang Yi noted her thoughtfulness towards Qin Xuan, Qiu Yan sarcastically remarked that as someone "relying on powerful connections," she couldn't let her "patron" (referring to Liang Yi, who was funding their operation) be endangered. Meanwhile, Madam Chen, the owner of Wanyan House, was seen with an old man who had come to collect Miss Shaoyao, a woman he was promised. However, Madam Chen revealed her true intention, stating she never planned to let him live, implying his death.
This man was later identified as the old back alley rogue when his body was discovered. Inside Wanyan House, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan, posing as tea merchants named Mr. Song and Mr. Qin respectively, were greeted by Madam Chen. Qiu Yan, adopting the persona of a shy, young lad, initially prompted Liang Yi to ask directly for Shaoyao. Liang Yi refined this by asking for someone more "special," which led to Madam Chen mentioning Shaoyao.
After a brief show of reluctance from Madam Chen, who claimed the girl was confined for misdeeds, Liang Yi insisted on seeing Miss Shaoyao, offering payment. This act of generosity made Qiu Yan fret, as the money came from Liang Yi's salary, not public funds. Madam Chen, swayed by the offer, made an exception. Upon entering Shaoyao's room, Shaoyao expressed gratitude for their intervention.
Liang Yi, however, instructed her to dress, explaining that his "friend" (Qiu Yan) was shy and preferred conversation. Shaoyao, understanding their preference for "artistic" interaction, revealed details about her customers. She found most acceptable, regardless of their behavior, but singled out a "stingy" individual who consistently failed to pay. She couldn't refuse him because he was a subordinate of Tao Zhugong, the mysterious owner of Wanyan House, whose true identity and appearance were known only to Madam Chen.
Shaoyao confirmed she had never given the old man anything, but noted that her nameplate had gone missing recently, implying he had stolen it. She also mentioned seeing him heading towards Tao Zhugong just before meeting them. Shaoyao, sensing their true identities, then shrewdly observed that they seemed more like government officials than businessmen. Madam Chen, suspicious of the two newcomers, ordered her subordinate to monitor Shaoyao's room.
Meanwhile, inside the room, Shaoyao, aware of the powerful aphrodisiac incense, attempted to engage Qiu Yan intimately and, through this interaction, subtly discerned Qiu Yan's female identity. Liang Yi quickly intervened, rendering Shaoyao unconscious and assuring Qiu Yan she wouldn't awaken before daybreak. A servant then arrived, delivering "Red safflower soup" for Shaoyao. Liang Yi blocked his entry, and the servant, observing a disheveled room, concluded the "new faces" were simply "having fun" and left.
This report eased Madam Chen's suspicions, prompting her to instruct the servant to bring Official Yao to the backyard. Liang Yi then gave Qiu Yan water, explaining the potent incense in the room. When Qiu Yan questioned why it hadn't affected him, Liang Yi attributed it to his lifelong martial arts training, stating he was not comparable to ordinary people. Qiu Yan playfully suggested he might have an "unspeakable disease," which annoyed him.
Qiu Yan then deduced that Wanyan House served as a front for Tao Zhugong's fake silver note operation, a place where high-ranking officials and nobles could conduct illicit transactions. She believed the murderer of Xiao Tie was also present and that they needed to find the hidden inventory to catch them "red-handed." Liang Yi, however, criticized Qiu Yan for her earlier impulsiveness, blaming her actions for nearly exposing them and attracting Madam Chen's suspicion.
Qiu Yan responded by admitting her inexperience but highlighting that despite the risk, they had successfully gathered information. Liang Yi and Qiu Yan moved to a corridor, where Liang Yi recognized Official Yao, an administrative clerk from the Council of State, being escorted by a Wanyan House subordinate to the backyard. There, Official Yao met Madam Chen, seeking to acquire fifteen fake silver notes.
Madam Chen, adhering to the establishment's rules against accepting direct cash or silver notes for security, requested something more valuable. Official Yao then presented a "Yao family heirloom," which he claimed was worth no less than 800 taels, and the exchange was made. Liang Yi considered informing Song Jin to seal Wanyan House immediately.
However, Qiu Yan dissuaded him, arguing that mere possession of a few fake notes would only result in minor charges, and the culprits might be silenced like Xiao Tie. She insisted they needed to locate Tao Zhugong and the main warehouse to achieve a significant breakthrough. As Madam Chen entered a secret passage, Liang Yi activated a hidden mechanism, allowing them to follow.
They discovered a vast, winding underground network, which Qiu Yan likened to a "maze" and a "natural cavern" upon which Wanyan House was built. Liang Yi acknowledged her astute observation. Despite Qiu Yan's initial fear of the dark, they pressed on. Deep within the labyrinthine tunnels, Qiu Yan discovered the lifeless body of the old back alley rogue, confirming he had been silenced just like Xiao Tie.
Liang Yi immediately concluded that the assassin was likely within the same underground network. Further on, they observed Madam Chen reporting to a man she addressed as Tao Zhugong. This Tao Zhugong was surrounded by three martial artists and numerous boxes, which Madam Chen reported contained less than 200 fake silver notes, all expected to be sold the following night.
She also discussed plans to destroy the remaining inventory, dispose of the old man's body, and disperse the Wanyan House girls, spreading rumors that "Tao Zhugong" had already fled south. Liang Yi, confirming the identity of the man as Tao Zhugong, urged Qiu Yan to identify the assassin among the three martial artists, reminding her she was the only one who had seen his face. However, Qiu Yan admitted she couldn't see clearly.
Her accidental movement made a noise, exposing their presence. Tao Zhugong immediately ordered his men to attack. Liang Yi valiantly fought multiple assailants, while Qiu Yan initially struggled to navigate the dark, unfamiliar tunnels, accidentally retracing their steps. Liang Yi, realizing Qiu Yan had not identified the assassin with the crossbow, confronted her about her earlier deception, accusing her of not being scared but rather afraid of her lie being exposed.
Qiu Yan admitted to fabricating the story to ensure she would be included in the investigation, arguing that Liang Yi had also resorted to deceit for his own objectives. Liang Yi, frustrated, warned her one last time that if she acted willfully again, he would abandon her. During the chaos, Madam Chen attempted to escape, but Qiu Yan apprehended her. To Qiu Yan's surprise, Madam Chen swallowed poison and died. The injured Tao Zhugong fled deeper into the tunnel.
Liang Yi pursued him, following a blood trail, but kept circling back to the same spot. Eventually, he encountered a young woman named Ping'er. Liang Yi questioned Ping'er, who explained that she and her father, a porter named Liu, worked at Wanyan House. With her father constantly ill and in need of medicine, their meager monthly wages were insufficient.
Ping'er confessed to discovering the underground cavern by chance and had been stealing one or two fake silver notes at a time to sell, which went unnoticed. She pleaded for leniency, citing her filial piety. Qiu Yan then noticed a strange, faint scent on the fake notes. Liang Yi identified it as the distinct aroma of Hongzhen Sect's Incense of Worship, which could be masked by ink.
This revelation indicated that the Hongzhen Sect was likely involved in the counterfeit operation, making the case far more complex than anticipated. Ping'er, familiar with the extensive tunnels, offered to guide them to an exit she knew of, though she had never personally used it. They soon arrived at a location Liang Yi recognized as the Forbidden Park, a restricted area granted by the Emperor to the Grand Preceptor for the construction of Hongzhen Holy Palace.
Only the Emperor and high-ranking Hongzhen Sect members were permitted entry. Liang Yi quickly surmised that the Grand Preceptor was the true mastermind behind Tao Zhugong, realizing the immense implications of such a shocking case that could destabilize the nation, and urged their immediate departure. A group of Daoists suddenly burst into their location within the Forbidden Park.
Liang Yi promptly identified himself as an Inspector from the Firewood Office and requested an audience with the Grand Preceptor, explaining they had pursued criminals into the sacred grounds. The Grand Preceptor, however, declared the Imperial Park a holy place where any forced entry would incur divine wrath. Qiu Yan, impatient with his evasions, boldly accused him of fearing exposure of a scandal.
Liang Yi quickly apologized for her impudence, assuring the Grand Preceptor that he believed him innocent, but suggested that some disciples might be acting without his knowledge, which could undermine the Emperor's trust. The Grand Preceptor saw through Liang Yi's facade, asserting his intention to punish any wrongdoing within the sect and suspecting a frame-up. Liang Yi, feigning admiration, subtly advised the Grand Preceptor that a self-investigation would inevitably lead to accusations of partiality.
He proposed gathering all individuals with leg injuries for inspection, referencing the injured Tao Zhugong, to clear the Hongzhen Sect's name. The Grand Preceptor refused to prove his innocence to the Firewood Office, threatening to report Liang Yi to the Emperor for trespassing with ill intent. At this critical moment, Lingzheng, the head of the Hongzhen Sect and second in command to the Grand Preceptor, arrived, escorting a visibly injured and flustered Xuanjing. Lingzheng reported finding Xuanjing behaving suspiciously.
The Grand Preceptor, enraged, confronted Xuanjing about his involvement in the Wanyan House fake notes scheme, expressing profound disappointment. Liang Yi calmly interjected, reiterating his intention not to publicize the case and simply requesting to take Xuanjing back to the Firewood Office for questioning. The Grand Preceptor, seemingly appeased, agreed and instructed Lingzheng to hand over Xuanjing.
As Liang Yi prepared to depart, Lingzheng suddenly praised Liang Yi's prowess before shockingly drawing his sword and pointing it at the Grand Preceptor, revealing himself as the true mastermind behind the operation. Lingzheng ranted about the aging Emperor and the impending succession of the Crown Prince, asserting that Hongzhen Sect would be targeted first. He justified the fake notes business as a means to bribe the Crown Prince's trusted followers and secure the sect's future.
Liang Yi, seeing through Lingzheng's grand scheme, mocked his lack of foresight, questioning how he would explain the Grand Preceptor's and Liang Yi's deaths to the Emperor. Lingzheng acknowledged Liang Yi's favored status with the Emperor and proposed a deal: Liang Yi should kill the Grand Preceptor and pin the fake notes crime on him, promising repayment once Lingzheng became the new Grand Preceptor. Liang Yi scoffed at the offer, refusing to be manipulated. Lingzheng then shifted his threat, putting Qiu Yan's life at stake. Faced with Qiu Yan's imminent danger, Liang Yi was forced to negotiate, requesting one night to consider Lingzheng's offer.
Episode 10 Recap
Liang Yi found himself suffocating, trapped with the Grand Preceptor in the Grand Preceptor's alchemy room. The Grand Preceptor, complaining bitterly about Lingzheng's betrayal, lamented his fate, while Liang Yi asked if there was any secret passage out. The Grand Preceptor confirmed there was only one exit, and it could only be opened from the outside. Liang Yi's arm was injured, and the Grand Preceptor even offered them wine.
Meanwhile, people at the Firewood Office were concerned about Liang Yi's disappearance, while Song Jin was frantically searching for him and Qiu Yan at Wanyan House. Despite the Grand Preceptor's despair, Qiu Yan refused to give up, believing they could dig through the stone wall. Liang Yi, noting her persistent efforts, teased her, asking if she was doing all this just to marry Qin Xuan. Qiu Yan refuted this, stating her true desire was to choose her own path.
She explained her long-standing interest in unusual cases, stemming from her childhood when her mother encouraged her to read crime stories like "Great Suo Strange Case Records." Through these stories, she learned characters and developed a deep wish for women to one day enjoy the same freedoms as men – to study, become officials, conduct business, and choose their own lives. Liang Yi, seeing her determination, quietly reflected on his own past.
He had once dreamed of using his pen as a sword, like his father, to expose injustice, but his father's death had changed him, pushing him towards a path of power and authority, becoming known as a government hawk. With their lives at stake, Liang Yi revealed his plan: to create black powder using sulfur, niter, and carbon powder.
He then guided them to a specific cold, damp section of the wall, deducing that it was thin and backed by the sacred lake of the Imperial Park, based on their entry route. Realizing they lacked a fuse, Qiu Yan ingeniously suggested soaking a rope in strong alcohol to use as an igniter. With a thunderous explosion, lake water burst through the wall, flooding the alchemy room and allowing them to escape into the water.
Lingzheng, alerted by the blast, rushed to the scene. He saw Liang Yi, Qiu Yan, and the Grand Preceptor swimming through the water. Liang Yi secured himself and Qiu Yan with a pair of unique Tocharian Golden Handcuffs to prevent them from being swept away by the current. When Qiu Yan began to lose consciousness, Liang Yi performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, saving her.
Once safely on shore, Qiu Yan thanked Liang Yi, urging him not to disclose what had transpired between them. As she fumbled with the handcuffs, Lingzheng's disciples approached, causing her to accidentally drop the key into the water. Outnumbered, the trio fled to a nearby pavilion. Thinking quickly, Liang Yi cut the bridge ropes, temporarily halting their pursuers. From the pavilion, Liang Yi sent a signal, but they remained trapped.
Lingzheng ordered his men to gather firewood, intending to set the pavilion ablaze. Meanwhile, Song Jin, still searching for Liang Yi and Qiu Yan at Wanyan House, spotted the red smoke signal. Accompanied by Qin Xuan, he rushed to their aid. Song Jin arrived just in time, rescuing Liang Yi, Qiu Yan, and the Grand Preceptor. Lingzheng was struck down by an arrow, and his remaining accomplices were apprehended.
As they prepared to leave, a rogue assassin lunged at Qiu Yan. Liang Yi swiftly intervened, taking a minor injury to protect her, while Qin Xuan, in a critical moment, killed the assailant. Qiu Yan noted that this assassin used a right-hand crossbow, confirming he was not the left-handed killer of Xiao Tie. Imperial Commander Yan arrived at the Imperial Park, sent by the Emperor to investigate the unrest.
He requested the Grand Preceptor accompany him to the palace to explain the incident. Before leaving, the Grand Preceptor expressed his profound gratitude to Liang Yi for saving his life. Shortly after, Song Jin informed Liang Yi that while he found the Wanyan House treasury, the crucial transaction ledger was still missing. Ping'er, who was with them, then recalled seeing a small book with names and dates at her "father's" residence, along with some unused fake silver notes.
Liang Yi and Qiu Yan went with Ping'er to her "father's" dwelling. Inside, Ping'er's "father" greeted them warmly. However, Ping'er suddenly attacked Liang Yi with a knife. Qiu Yan, sensing her ill intent, pulled Liang Yi out of the way, causing Ping'er to accidentally stab her "father." Overcome with grief, Ping'er revealed her true identity as Dou Ying's daughter, accusing Liang Yi of framing her real father for embezzlement, which led to her family's ruin.
She claimed the man she had just killed was not her true father but a bodyguard who had rescued her after her family's downfall. This bodyguard, skilled with a left-hand crossbow, had been working for Lingzheng after Lingzheng caught Ping'er forging fake notes, and he was, in fact, the assassin who had killed Xiao Tie. Liang Yi observed that the bodyguard had simply wished to be Ping'er's father, as evidenced by his care for her.
He also clarified that Dou Ying had indeed been guilty of widespread corruption, including bribery and embezzlement, but Liang Yi had previously chosen to spare Ping'er and the bodyguard due to their vulnerability. Qiu Yan, recalling her sister Qiu Min's love for expensive Liuxiang Perfumery pouches, had noticed Ping'er wearing one, which had clued her into Ping'er's deceptive poverty claim and thus her ulterior motive. The crisis resolved, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan rode back to the Firewood Office.
Liang Yi calmly explained the truth of Dou Ying's crimes, noting how children often see only the good in their parents. On their journey, they passed by a wonton stall and saw Yao Gai, who appeared to have reformed, which brought them a moment of satisfaction. As the sun set, Qiu Yan recalled a peaceful memory of riding horses on the beach with Liang Yi six years prior. Meanwhile, the Grand Preceptor informed the Emperor of Lingzheng's rebellion and demise.
The Emperor, viewing this as divine judgment, decided against further punishment, instead instructing the Grand Preceptor to focus on his alchemy to avoid incurring divine wrath upon the populace. Back at the Firewood Office, Liang Yi used tools to break the chain connecting the unique Tocharian Golden Handcuffs. He explained that their intricate design meant the key could not be replicated, and opening them by force would cause injury.
A new key would require a specialized Tocharian blacksmith, a journey that would take over two months. Qin Xuan expressed his annoyance at this delay. Just then, Song Jin arrived with news: the Emperor had transferred both the fake notes case and the Imperial Park incident to the Main Administrative Office.
Liang Yi, understanding that Song Jin's forceful entry into the Imperial Park was a serious offense, was not surprised by this decision, instructing Song Jin to transfer all evidence found at Wanyan House's treasury. However, Qiu Yan quickly interjected, requesting to review the evidence first, hoping to find clues about an internal thief in her own family who might have purchased fake notes, as the transaction ledger was still missing.
As they were discussing this, Yuan Lang, the principal of the Main Administrative Office, arrived at the Firewood Office, under imperial decree, to collect all evidence related to the Wanyan House case.
Episode 11 Recap
The principal of the Main Administrative Office, Yuan Lang, arrived with an official decree, demanding to extract evidence from the Firewood Office. Though both organizations were under the emperor's command, a long-standing feud existed between Yuan Lang and Liang Yi. Three years prior, Liang Yi had discovered Yuan Lang's misdeeds during a case they both pursued, leading to Yuan Lang's demotion and banishment. Now, with Yuan Lang reinstated by His Majesty, the Main Administrative Office sought to settle old scores.
As Yuan Lang entered the Firewood Office, Liang Yi confronted him, reminding him of their past. Liang Yi engaged Yuan Lang in conversation, offering him tea and subtly taunting him, while Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan frantically searched for clues amidst the numerous boxes of confiscated items from Wanyan House.
Yuan Lang, who had been banished for three years, two months, and fifteen days, openly declared his desire to "reunite" with Liang Yi, and smashed Liang Yi's teacup as a show of his restored power. Despite Yuan Lang’s aggressive stance, Liang Yi maintained his composure, allowing Yuan Lang to eventually take all the evidence. As Yuan Lang left, he promised Liang Yi that he would settle all their past and present grievances, one by one.
Later, Qiu Yan informed Liang Yi that she had successfully deduced the sorting method of the confiscated items (by the number of strokes in the surnames), which would allow them to locate the Qiu family's belongings among the evidence Yuan Lang had taken. She then expressed her concern to Liang Yi that Yuan Lang might accuse him to His Majesty for delaying the evidence transfer. Liang Yi, however, was accustomed to such pressures.
He explained that he was merely a "whip" His Majesty used to control his officials, and that such tools, though useful, had to be frequently replaced to prevent public resentment from shifting from the whip to its owner. He implied that Yuan Lang's return was a reminder from His Majesty that Liang Yi was not the only tool at his disposal. Qin Xuan, impressed by Liang Yi's demeanor, lamented the difficulties of being an official.
Before leaving, he expressed a playful jealousy that the gold cuff Qiu Yan wore, symbolic of her daring adventure with Liang Yi, wasn't on his own hand. Qiu Yan responded by teasing him, suggesting that if men could have multiple partners, women should also be allowed to have their "feet in two boats."
Upon returning to the Qiu residence, Qiu Yan gathered her family to explain the situation regarding the fake silver notes and presented a jade pendant found at Wanyan House. First Master Qiu Xian recognized the pendant as his, but everyone was puzzled, as he was supposedly in Mount Lianyun undertaking spiritual cultivation.
Qiu Xian claimed he had lost the pendant a year prior while visiting the family and, as a spiritual man, did not value such worldly possessions, thus never reported it missing to avoid unnecessary trouble. He vehemently denied ever visiting Wanyan House, stating it would ruin his spiritual attainment to go to such an "unclean land." However, without proof of his alibi, most family members remained skeptical, though Qiu Yan suspected Third or Fourth Uncle more.
Qiu Mei, First Master's daughter, came forward with peace talismans, kneeling to beg Qiu Yan to clear her father's name. Qiu Yan told her that the innocent would prove themselves and her kneeling was unnecessary. Later that night, Song Jin applied medicine to Liang Yi's wounds. Madam Jin, Liang Yi's mother, arrived to check on her son, expressing concern for his well-being before leaving.
Song Jin mentioned that he had found records of two keys for the gold cuff and planned to search for the second one the next day. Liang Yi, however, instructed him not to rush, seemingly lost in thought about the cuff. With the three-day deadline approaching and the case making little progress, Qiu Yan and Qiu Min sought out Madam Xu for information, hoping she could identify the most likely person to have taken the jade pendant.
Madam Xu subtly suggested Fourth Master Qiu Hong, known for his dissolute lifestyle. She recounted how he had accrued over a thousand taels in debt at a bordello in Tianshui Alley six months prior, and secretly pawned over ten gold and silver artifacts from Old Madam's courtyard to repay it.
Qiu Yan dispatched servants to monitor Qiu Hong, but they inadvertently discovered Fourth Madam Mi behaving strangely, leaving the residence without her maid and heading towards the west of the city. Qiu Yan and Qingdai followed Mi to Heming Building, a theater, where they learned she frequented a specific private room. She would sit there drinking tea, neither applauding nor tipping, always looking out at a nearby wonton stall, never actually watching the plays.
Qiu Yan noticed the wonton vendors, despite their simple attire, dressed their daughter in luxurious clothes. This, coupled with Fourth Madam Mi's tender gaze towards the girl, made Qiu Yan suspicious. After Mi left, Qiu Yan approached the vendors, who denied any relation to Mi, but confirmed their daughter shared the exact birthdate as Qiu Di, Mi's son.
This clue sparked a memory for Qiu Yan: Madam Han had once confided a secret about Fourth Master Qiu Hong's favoritism towards Madam Kou, his concubine, and his near-divorce of Mi due to her inability to bear a son. This led Qiu Yan to suspect that Qiu Di might not be Mi's biological child. Qingdai then located the old midwife who delivered Mi's baby.
Though the midwife was disoriented, her fragmented words confirmed the identity swap of Qiu Di and the wonton vendor's daughter. Qiu Min, upon learning the truth, wanted to expose Fourth Madam Mi, but Qiu Yan firmly refused, warning of the dire consequences, including possible drowning, if such a scandal became public. Qiu Yan expressed admiration for Mi's courage and ingenuity in seeking self-preservation and resolved to help her keep the secret, strictly cautioning Qiu Min against leaking any information.
On the final night of the deadline, Qiu Yan, with no other options, gathered the entire Qiu family. She first presented evidence clearing First Master Qiu Xian. She explained that he was severely allergic to strong scents and certain herbs, such as those used in Wanyan House's incense, which would have caused him to faint immediately upon entering. She proved his allergy by referencing the madder he used in his peace talismans instead of cinnabar.
Next, she cleared Fourth Master Qiu Hong, acknowledging his past misdeeds of debt and pawning family valuables. However, she demonstrated that on the night in question, Qiu Hong had been bedridden with illness, proving he could not have gone to Wanyan House. With these two cleared, suspicion narrowed to Third Uncle Qiu Ning. Initially, Qiu Ning vehemently denied any involvement, even threatening to leave the family with his wife, Qian.
Qiu Yan sternly warned him that if he left, no one could protect him, and the imperial court's investigation into the fake silver notes would lead the Firewood Office to question him, with far more severe consequences. Terrified, Qiu Ning collapsed and confessed to having gone to Wanyan House to exchange the jade pendant for fake silver notes. However, he claimed the fake notes had mysteriously disappeared from his room shortly after.
He then revealed that Wanyan House provided a special, colorless, and odorless potion that would react with the fake notes, turning the paper blue and leaving a blue stain on anyone's skin who had touched the notes, lasting for half a month. Qiu Yan asked Madam Xu to retrieve the potion from Third Uncle's room.
As Madam Xu returned with the potion, she attempted to pour it out, but was caught in the act, thus exposing herself as the true culprit. Qiu Yan then revealed that Madam Xu was the one who had exchanged the fake notes. She explained that Madam Xu had attempted to frame Fourth Master and Fourth Madam, but her excessive eagerness to deflect blame and her constant efforts to steer the investigation away from herself had actually raised Qiu Yan's suspicions.
Qiu Yan further revealed that she had known Third Uncle was innocent all along. His wife, Qian, managed all of his finances, making it impossible for him to use fake notes in the family accounts without her knowledge. Therefore, any fake notes he had must have been part of his personal stash. She concluded by stating that Third Uncle had cooperated with her to expose the real thief.
Episode 12 Recap
Madam Xu’s elaborate schemes, which she believed to be flawless, began to unravel when she deliberately tried to lead Qiu Yan to suspect the Fourth Chamber, thereby exposing her intentions. As Madam Xu had served the Old Madam for decades and held enough authority to avoid suspicion, Qiu Yan, lacking concrete evidence, decided to turn the tables.
She sought out her Third Uncle, Qiu Ning, and convinced him to cooperate in a staged performance designed to lure Madam Xu into a trap. Qiu Yan threatened to expose Qiu Ning's visit to Wanyan House if he refused, highlighting that his reputation would be ruined regardless, thereby compelling him to assist. The supposed "potion" from Wanyan House, which Qiu Yan mentioned to lure Madam Xu, was in fact nothing more than ordinary well water.
Qiu Yan explained that if such a potent substance truly existed, she would not have gone to such lengths to investigate the matter using a jade pendant. Faced with urgency, Madam Xu, attempting to destroy what she thought was incriminating evidence, unwittingly exposed herself. Soon after, Qingdai, searching Madam Xu's room, discovered the fake silver notes. This revelation brought the "donation" scandal to a clear resolution.
With the evidence laid bare, Madam Xu offered no further excuses and confessed her crimes. She affirmed her loyalty to the Old Madam, insisting she never intended harm to the Qiu family. Her motive, she revealed, was to avenge her only son, Xu Song, whose death she blamed on Second Master Qiu Yi for his unverified accusations. Madam Xu emotionally recounted that if Qiu Yi hadn't falsely accused her son, Xu Song would not have died so young.
Though the Old Madam, valuing their long-standing relationship, urged Madam Xu to elaborate, Madam Xu refused, calmly accepting her fate. She was then escorted to the woodshed to await official reporting the following morning, and Qiu Yi was instructed to deliver the legitimate silver notes to the Ministry of Revenue. Later, Qiu Yi reflected on Xu Song's potential, describing him as diligent and fond of reading.
He recounted how he had recommended Xu Song to audit classes at the Imperial College eight years prior. However, six months later, the Imperial College registrar reported Xu Song for cheating on an examination, leading to his expulsion. Xu Song vehemently denied the accusation, claiming he was framed by fellow noble students and the registrar. Yet, Qiu Yi had dismissed his pleas, believing that students from prominent families would have no reason to conspire against a commoner.
It was Qiu Yi’s lack of trust that drove Xu Song to take his own life to prove his innocence, igniting Madam Xu’s deep-seated desire for revenge. Qiu Yan, examining Xu Song's belongings, discovered many books that had been torn and painstakingly re-glued. She pointed out to Qiu Yi that a diligent scholar would never damage books. She reasoned that Xu Song, being a servant in an institution filled with prestigious students, was an anomaly.
She explained that it is human nature to discriminate against outsiders, and the more exceptional Xu Song became, the more he would have been resented. She drew a parallel to her own experience, where her younger sister Qiu Rong would tear her books, which she would then repair in the same manner. Qiu Yan's sharp observation allowed Qiu Yi to finally comprehend Xu Song’s predicament and realize his past misjudgment.
Qiu Yi then visited Madam Xu in the woodshed, apologizing deeply for his past wrongs towards both her and Xu Song. Madam Xu, however, angrily retorted that his apology came too late and would not bring her son back, asserting that neither she nor Xu Song would ever forgive him for not listening to his explanation.
Despite his regret, Qiu Yi remained firm, stating that while he could overlook her hatred and attempt to frame him, he could not forgive her for implicating the entire Qiu family. He ordered her to return to her hometown the next day and never appear before the Qiu family again. After Madam Xu’s departure, the Old Madam became increasingly difficult to please, as no other servant possessed Madam Xu's meticulous care.
Meanwhile, whispers about Fourth Aunt Qiu Di circulated throughout the Qiu household. Under the Old Madam's relentless questioning, Qiu Min reluctantly revealed the truth. The Old Madam had intended to expel Qiu Di, but Qiu Di, a woman who had been encouraged by the Old Madam years ago to divorce her son for failing to bear a male heir, possessed a devastating secret about the Second Chamber.
Qiu Di threatened to expose this secret, which she had protected for over a decade, stating it would lead to the execution and confiscation of property for the entire Qiu family. This leverage allowed Qiu Di to remain safe, though Qiu Min inadvertently incurred her displeasure by revealing the information to the Old Madam. With the fake silver notes case finally settled, Qiu Yan regained her freedom, no longer constrained by unwanted marriage arrangements.
Meanwhile, Ping'er, the daughter of the corrupt official Dou Ying, was exiled to Yazhou, forbidden to ever return to the capital. On the day of Ping'er’s departure, Liang Yi watched from a second-story window. Qiu Yan, aware that Dou Ying was indeed a corrupt official and not merely framed, urged Liang Yi to tell Ping'er the truth, hoping to spare her a lifetime of misplaced hatred.
However, Liang Yi chose not to reveal the truth, believing that hatred was the only thing keeping the isolated Ping'er alive in her desolate new reality; knowing the truth would be an unbearable blow. Qiu Yan was struck by Liang Yi's words, her thoughts drifting back to her youth, surprised that he still remembered something she had said long ago. Later, Qiu Yan and Qingdai visited a bookshop to buy the newly released "Lu's Crime Investigation".
There, she unexpectedly encountered Qin Xuan, who had already purchased all the detective and romance novels in the shop. He revealed his intention to build a library for her, ensuring she would never be bored. Qin Xuan, understanding Qiu Yan's concerns about her parents' disapproval of their match, vowed to achieve an official rank or military success. If all else failed, he declared he would sever ties with his family.
However, the more devoted Qin Xuan became, the more Qiu Yan felt indebted to him. She acknowledged the validity of his parents' prejudices against her, especially given her past circumstances, and believed their relationship needed time to develop naturally, not through rushed decisions or family conflict. Despite this, she insisted on paying him for the books. That evening, Qiu Yan found herself staring at the golden cuff Liang Yi had given her.
A sense of unease settled over her, prompting her to quickly wrap the cuff in cloth and put it away. She reflected on the societal double standards, how women like her were scorned for being "widowed," while men who lost their wives were expected to quickly remarry, solidifying her defiance against such unjust norms. Concurrently, Liang Yi, practicing in his courtyard, also noticed his own cuff.
He too felt a similar stirring of emotion, wondering when he had begun to care for Qiu Yan. As Liang Yi's marriage had been repeatedly delayed, Noble Consort Guo personally arranged the match between Liang Yi and Qiu Min, informing the Qiu family. Han and Qiu Yi discussed this, unaware that Qiu Yan and Qiu Min were listening.
Qiu Yan advised Qiu Min to consider her choice carefully, emphasizing that once made, she must bear the consequences herself, without resentment or blaming others. After much deliberation, Qiu Min decided to accept the marriage proposal to Liang Yi. Preparations for the wedding began at the Liang Residence. Liang Yi intended to procure betrothal gifts and sought Qiu Yan's assistance, believing she knew her sister's preferences best. Qiu Yan diligently selected various items, traversing many shops.
At a jewelry boutique, as Liang Yi helped Qiu Yan try on a necklace, he became momentarily captivated by her. Unaware of his gaze, Qiu Yan remained focused on selecting items for her sister. Liang Yi then instructed Song Jin to specially pack the necklace for Qiu Yan as a gift. Song Jin was surprised by Liang Yi's unusual attentiveness to the marriage, implying he was smitten.
However, Liang Yi unconsciously echoed Qiu Yan's previous sentiment, stating that regardless of initial feelings, a marriage should be diligently managed. Meanwhile, Qiu Min received the gifts from the Liang Residence, surprised that every item perfectly suited her taste, wondering how they knew her preferences so well. Qiu Yan did not reveal she had helped choose the gifts, only telling her sister that while Liang Yi was shrewd, ruthless, and resourceful, he was not a bad person.
Episode 13 Recap
Madam Han presented a silver gilded ruyi headdress to Qiu Min and silver jade pearl earrings to Qiu Yan, explaining that these were her most cherished dowries and hoping they would accompany her daughters and bring them happiness after marriage. With Qiu Min poised for a high-status marriage, other family members, including First Madam, offered their congratulations.
Qiu Yan then keenly suggested that Qiu Mei and Qiu Ying, known for their embroidery skills, should undertake the task of embroidering Qiu Min's wedding dress, slyly recalling their swiftness in embroidering the character "Yan" on a handkerchief, implying ample time despite Qiu Mei’s concerns. At the Firewood Office, Liang Yi received Qiu Yi, explaining his visit was to acknowledge the betrothal gifts and address his underlying reasons for the marriage proposal.
Liang Yi admitted he had investigated Qiu Yi and respected his integrity, revealing that his true interest lay in leveraging Qiu Yi's influence. He outlined Dashuo's three weaknesses – superfluous troops, unnecessary expenses, and redundant officials – and stressed the urgent need to select capable talents to prevent another national crisis, given the current threats from Northern Liang and internal rebellions.
Liang Yi confessed his distrust of existing ministries and sought Qiu Yi’s help in recommending worthy individuals, also confirming his collaboration with General He in the military. Qiu Yi, recognizing Liang Yi’s shrewdness, realized this elaborate scheme had likely been planned since Liang Yi mediated their family's domestic issues. Meanwhile, Yuan Lang analyzed Liang Yi's strategy, noting that his dismissals at the Firewood Office primarily targeted officials in lucrative departments.
Yuan Lang observed that Liang Yi replaced these corrupt figures with competent yet long-overlooked scholars, concluding that Liang Yi was not interested in bribes but sought to secretly control the imperial administration. He dismissed any romantic interest from Liang Yi towards Qiu Min, asserting that Liang Yi's true goal was to exploit Qiu Yi’s father’s extensive network of former students to select loyal officials, while Liang Yi himself eliminated obstacles.
Yuan Lang was convinced that if this alliance continued, Liang Yi could covertly control the court within a few years, making it imperative to thwart the Qiu family's alliance with him. Madam Han, Qiu Min, and Qiu Yan journeyed to Taiying Temple for prayers, where they unexpectedly encountered Qin Xuan. He explained his presence was to obtain safety amulets for his own family and asked to join their party.
Separately, Song Jin arrived at the temple, having finally located the key for Liang Yi's golden cuffs. He suggested sending the key to Qiu Yan. However, Liang Yi decided to personally deliver the key to Qiu Yan at the temple, prompting Song Jin to suspect Liang Yi's real motive was to see Qiu Min. Inside the temple, Master Zhenyan offered blessings for Qiu Min's approaching marriage.
Liang Yi, ever vigilant, noticed a suspicious street vendor, identifying him as an operative of Yuan Lang who had been following them. Aware of the surveillance, Liang Yi subtly instructed Song Jin to ascertain the extent of their observation, while publicly maintaining an appearance of being solely focused on his wedding preparations and religious duties.
At the Cangjing Chamber, Qiu Min tearfully confided in Qin Xuan, expressing her sorrow over something "within reach but unattainable," an unfulfilled desire she could neither fight for nor abandon. Qin Xuan, seemingly oblivious to her emotional distress, merely inquired why she was gloomy given her impending wedding. Qiu Yan subtly overheard this poignant exchange. Shortly after, Liang Yi approached Qiu Yan, accusing her of persistently pestering Qiu Min despite his engagement.
Qiu Yan swiftly refuted his accusation, stating she was there for prayer, and then urgently declared she had something important to discuss, leading him away to prevent him from witnessing any further emotional interactions between Qiu Min and Qin Xuan. Qiu Yan led Liang Yi to a pavilion atop a mountain, describing it as a beautiful spot to witness the cloud sea after an early summer rain.
Although Liang Yi initially found the view unremarkable, he was momentarily captivated by Qiu Yan's presence, which caused him to hesitate and keep the cuff key he intended to give her. Qiu Yan then chose to express her gratitude, thanking Liang Yi for rescuing her from bandits six years prior on the outskirts of the capital. She recalled that he had not revealed his name then but left a distinctive folding fan, which she had preserved.
She added that she now knew the owner's name and understood every word written on the fan, also disclosing how her mother had abandoned her during that harrowing incident. Liang Yi was visibly shocked by Qiu Yan's revelation, asking when she had recognized him. Qiu Yan explained she identified him during the Lantern Festival, recognizing his signature, "Heavenly Purifier of People," on a sky lantern.
She elaborated that she had initially felt disheartened and unwilling to acknowledge him after realizing he had "used" her, and their subsequent misunderstandings and rivalry had prevented her from speaking sooner. Liang Yi clarified that he had only used her to uncover the truth and gain leverage against influential figures like General He, emphasizing he was not a "gallant knight" and had rescued her for her "utilization value."
Qiu Yan asserted she was no longer the helpless girl she once was, having learned to manage a household, count, and keep books. With their misunderstandings resolved, she sincerely wished him and Qiu Min a happy marriage, asking for a reciprocal blessing. Liang Yi wished her to find her loved one. Qiu Yan then departed, playfully mentioning she had forgotten to bring a thank-you gift.
Left alone, Liang Yi remained in thought, surprised by his own unawareness of her true identity all this time. On her way back, Qiu Yan encountered Qiu Min and cautioned her, stating she should be grateful that Qiu Yan herself, and not someone else, had overheard her conversation with Qin Xuan. She then warned Qiu Min that Liang Yi had come to the temple intending to see her.
Qiu Yan advised Qiu Min, having chosen this path, to avoid pushing Liang Yi's boundaries or clinging to past affections after her marriage, as the Qiu family would not be able to protect her from the repercussions. Qiu Min responded that her "lingering dream is over" and, observing Qin Xuan's apparent happiness, encouraged Qiu Yan to "cheer him up for life."
Separately, Master Zhenyan met Madam Han, remarking that he always thought of her whenever he saw a particular jade pendant. Master Zhenyan then asked if they had met before, to which Madam Han replied they had never met prior to entering the palace for the Empress's birthday celebration. Madam Han also privately recalled making a promise to a childhood friend to study like men.
The Qiu Residence was filled with a festive atmosphere as preparations for Qiu Min's wedding were in full swing. Qiu Yan and Madam Han were pleased to see Qiu Min adorned in her beautiful wedding attire. In stark contrast, Liang Yi displayed little interest in the upcoming marriage. Song Jin observed Liang Yi's unusual moodiness, speculating that he might have "fallen for" Qiu Yan.
Liang Yi dismissed Song Jin's observations, stating his wedding attire fit well but otherwise remained preoccupied, implying Song Jin should focus on his own duties. On the eve of the wedding, while overseeing courtyard arrangements, Madam Han suddenly felt dizzy and collapsed. Qiu Yan diligently stayed by her mother's side, constantly preparing medicines to aid her recovery. However, days passed without improvement, and Madam Han's condition worsened.
First Madam and Third Aunt visited, their presence preventing Madam Han from resting properly. Qiu Yan, witnessing her mother's distress, directly informed them that Madam Han required quiet rest and that the ginseng they had brought was harmful, as it exacerbated her "interior stagnation of heat" given the blood in her phlegm. Qiu Yan insisted they leave, causing them to depart. Despite Qiu Yan's firm belief in her mother's recovery, Madam Han had lost hope, acknowledging her deteriorating health.
She cautioned Qiu Yan against being overly headstrong, urging her to maintain family relations, as there would be times she would need their support. Madam Han hinted at her impending death, expressing regret at not seeing her daughters married and entrusting the care of the Second Chamber to Qiu Yan, given her father's lack of interest in worldly affairs and Qiu Min's timid nature.
Qiu Yan, heartbroken by these words, which sounded like final instructions, discreetly retreated to shed tears while feigning to tend to the medicine. Although Madam Han was not her biological mother, Qiu Yan deeply valued her kindness, considering her superior to Madam Liu. Determined to find a cure, Qiu Yan continued to seek remedies. Physician Li arrived and, after examining Madam Han, was alarmed to diagnose her with an infectious disease.
He immediately ordered everyone out of the room, instructing them not to re-enter without his explicit permission, as he stayed to treat her alone. Madam Liu, feigning concern, quickly suggested taking Rong'er and the other children to a separate villa to avoid infection, revealing her priority was her own son's safety. Qiu Yan saw through Madam Liu’s pretense and firmly stated she would not leave her mother.
She also suggested that the Taiying Temple might be the source of the hidden infection. Qiu Min initially agreed to stay with Qiu Yan for a day or two, but Madam Liu persuaded her to leave, citing Qiu Min's delicate health and her own duty to protect her. Qin Xuan sent tonic medicine to the Qiu Residence.
Qiu Yan personally prepared herbal remedies for her mother, while Qiu Min dedicated herself to hand-copying scriptures, believing her sincerity would ensure Madam Han's safety. Qiu Yan expressed her skepticism towards such superstitions, asserting that only medicine and food could truly cure. Noting that her mother's condition worsened despite copious medicine, Qiu Yan, in a desperate plea, vowed to her ancestors that she would remain unmarried forever and serve them if they restored her mother to health.
The following morning, Qiu Yan overheard Old Madam and other family members (Third and Fourth Masters) discussing preparations for funeral rites and suggesting simplicity. Outraged, Qiu Yan burst in, accusing them of abandoning her mother and planning a funeral while she was still alive. Old Madam attempted to justify their actions as a traditional way to bring "good luck," but Qiu Yan dismissed their excuses as thinly veiled intentions to give up on her mother. Qiu Hong then suggested a folk remedy, which was quickly dismissed given Physician Li's inability to cure the disease.
Episode 14 Recap
Qiu Yan pleaded with her Fourth Uncle, Qiu Hong, to reveal the "treatment" he had mentioned earlier. Qiu Hong initially hesitated but, seeing her earnestness in seeking a cure for her mother, Han Shi, he relented. He explained that his mistress had contracted an infectious disease two years prior, and a wandering physician had saved her life with an ancestral regimen.
Qiu Hong confirmed he still possessed the life-saving prescription, which had famously cured half a boat of people during the Renshen River Disease outbreak. However, he cautioned that two key ingredients, tokay gecko and euphorbia decaryi, were exceptionally rare and unavailable in apothecaries, making them difficult to acquire. Song Jin reported back to Liang Yi, confirming that while tokay gecko and euphorbia decaryi were indeed rare, they could be found on the black market.
Unfortunately, the apothecary supplying the black market had been seized by the Total Chapter Yamen the previous month. With Han Shi's life at stake, Liang Yi went to the Total Chapter Yamen and knelt before Yuan Lang, pleading for the confiscated medicine. Yuan Lang, citing strict rules about seized goods, was reluctant to release them. Liang Yi emphasized the urgency, stating that an exception should be made given it was a matter of life and death.
Yuan Lang then proposed a "show" to justify the release of the medicine: Liang Yi would publicly accept a whipping, making it seem he was being punished to acquire the drugs. Qiu Yan immediately spoke up, accusing Yuan Lang of personal vendetta due to their previous encounter and offering to bear the punishment herself, stating the entire situation was her fault. Yuan Lang, however, seemed to dismiss her offer by turning back to Liang Yi.
Liang Yi, prioritizing the medicine, agreed to the whipping. Yuan Lang ordered his subordinates to be witnesses and instructed Song Jin to carry out the punishment. Despite Song Jin's hesitation, Liang Yi was severely lashed. Afterward, Liang Yi quickly handed the medicine to Qiu Yan, dismissing his injuries as mere scratches he was accustomed to. Qiu Yan accepted the medicine, vowing to repay his sacrifice.
Rushing back to the Qiu residence with the medicine, Qiu Yan's heart sank as she found white mourning cloths hung throughout, realizing she was too late. Meanwhile, in Han Shi's room, Official Qiu (Qiu Yi), while checking her belongings, unexpectedly discovered half a jade pendant. Recognizing its significance, he shattered it in a fit of anger. A servant then informed Qiu Yan that Han Shi had passed away and was already outside the city.
Qiu Yan rushed out, hoping to see her mother one last time, only to arrive as her father lit the coffin, beginning its cremation. Devastated, Qiu Yan knelt, sobbing uncontrollably, lamenting that she couldn't even say goodbye. Later, upon returning to the residence, Qiu Yan asked Physician Li if her mother had passed peacefully. He assured her that Second Madam had died painlessly in her sleep, bringing Qiu Yan some relief.
That night, Qiu Min, believing in the power of ancestral blessings, frantically copied scriptures and lit incense, convinced her mother would return if she completed the ritual. Qiu Yan gently told her that their mother was gone and her coffin had even been cremated. Qiu Min vehemently denied it, accusing Qiu Yan of lying and crying that all promises were "fake."
Qiu Yan, in turn, urged Qiu Min to "wake up," warning her that no one would pamper her anymore and that she would only face more suffering if she remained vulnerable and delusional. Overwhelmed, Qiu Min screamed and fainted. While Official Qiu mourned at the ancestral hall, placing a memorial tablet for Han Shi, Old Madam Qiu comforted him, assuring him he had done his best. Official Qiu confided that the memorial spot was "for her. For me too."
Qiu Min later recounted a "nightmare" where she saw "so much blood." Qiu Yan tried to reassure her, reiterating that Physician Li said their mother had died peacefully in her sleep. However, Qiu Min insisted she had seen her mother vomiting a lot of blood. She confessed that she had secretly gone to her mother's courtyard and witnessed Physician Li and a nurse entering the room without any protective garments, despite her mother supposedly having an infectious disease.
She fled to the ancestral hall in fear. This revelation, coupled with a report from a subordinate that no one in Taiying Temple or the nearby villages had contracted the infectious disease, deepened Qiu Yan's suspicions. She confronted Official Qiu, questioning the lack of other infections and the physician's lack of protection if the disease was truly so lethal. She suggested Physician Li might have misdiagnosed or prescribed the wrong medicine.
Official Qiu dismissed her concerns, attributing the family's escape to Physician Li's timely diagnosis and isolation measures. He accused Qiu Yan of unfairly blaming others due to her grief. Qiu Yan, however, insisted on finding out the truth of her mother's sudden and unclear death. Infuriated, Official Qiu ordered her confined to her room until she admitted her mistake.
While under confinement, Madam Liu brought Qiu Yan food, using the opportunity to express her ambition to become the legal wife of Official Qiu, believing it would make Qiu Yan a legitimate daughter. She even implied that Qiu Yan's passionate display of grief, particularly towards Qiu Min, was merely "for show" to gain favor. Enraged, Qiu Yan told her to "Go away," asserting Madam Liu was not her mother.
Soon after, Liang Yi and Qin Xuan arrived at the Qiu residence to offer their condolences. Official Qiu thanked them for the anti-infection medicines they provided. Liang Yi politely stated that the marriage arrangements between him and Qiu Min could wait, as the funeral was more important. Official Qiu informed them that Qiu Min was bedridden with grief, and Qiu Yan remained stubbornly in denial about her mother's death.
Qin Xuan attempted to console Qiu Yan through her door, reminding her that her wet nurse believed a loved one's soul lingered after death, and her aunt would worry if she saw Qiu Yan suffering so deeply. Liang Yi, overhearing, quietly instructed a servant not to disturb Qiu Min, acknowledging that grief could not be easily assuaged and simply left medicine for her, trusting time would heal her pain.
Qiu Yan later confided in Qin Xuan that she felt her mother's death was peculiar and that her intuition was never wrong. Qin Xuan tried to dissuade her, citing the inherent dangers of infectious diseases. However, Liang Yi, who had heard their conversation, interjected, offering to investigate any suspicious details himself. The trio then went to Physician Li's residence.
Liang Yi observed that the family's belongings had been cleared out, suggesting they had left for good, but the tea was still warm, indicating they hadn't gone far. They tracked them to a staging post outside the city. Under pressure from Liang Yi, Physician Li Zhengyuan confessed that Han Shi's pulse had been normal and vigorous. He admitted that his "benefactor" had instructed him to falsely diagnose her with an infectious disease.
He further revealed that before her death, Han Shi had vomited blood and developed red spots on her skin, symptoms consistent with red safflower poison. He claimed he only lied to repay a favor. Armed with this information, Qiu Yan rushed to confront Old Madam Qiu, demanding to know why she had done such a thing to her mother. Old Madam Qiu vehemently denied everything, calling it "nonsense."
Liang Yi interjected, revealing that Physician Li Zhengyuan was now imprisoned in the Pichaichu, warning Old Madam Qiu that if she refused to explain, he would compel her to come to the Pichaichu herself. Official Qiu stepped in, asserting that it was a private family matter and not for Liang Yi to meddle in. He ordered Qiu Yan back to her room, dismissing her accusations of poisoning and destruction of evidence as mere slander without proof.
Liang Yi sided with Qiu Yan, stating her suspicions were valid given the physician's strange behavior. Official Qiu accused Liang Yi of disrespecting his future in-laws, reminding him of their previous cordial relationship. Liang Yi countered that if the Second Madam of the Qiu family was poisoned, it was a criminal case that the Qiu family could not conceal.
Qiu Yan, kneeling before them, formally appealed to Official Qiu and Liang Yi to investigate her mother Han Shi's death, accusing the Lin of the Qiu family (Old Madam Qiu) of poisoning her mother. Official Qiu, furious, called her "crazy" and an "insolence." Qiu Yan defiantly declared that she could not compromise or be soft, and if it meant fighting and facing death to appeal for her mother's injustice, she was prepared to do so.
Official Qiu became enraged, accusing her of adding insult to injury by accusing his own mother of killing his wife. He questioned if she was truly his daughter if she could act this way. Qiu Yan retorted that if being his daughter meant ignoring her mother's mysterious death, then she would rather not be. She simply demanded the truth.
Official Qiu insisted the truth was that her mother died of an infectious disease, but Qiu Yan dismissed this as a lie he told himself. As Official Qiu moved to strike Qiu Yan, Liang Yi stepped in to intervene.
Episode 15 Recap
Qiu Yan, heartbroken by her mother’s death, adamantly declared that if being a daughter meant ignoring her mother’s mysterious passing, she would rather not be. Despite her Uncle Qiu’s attempts to calm and restrain her, Qiu Yan addressed Old Madam Qiu and Official Qiu, stating that she did not wish to go to extremes but they could not keep her at the Qiu Residence that day.
She asked her younger half-sister, Qiu Min, to come with her, but Qiu Min hesitated and remained. As Qiu Yan prepared to leave alone, Liang Yi accompanied her, asserting he would take over the matter. Official Qiu, distressed, admitted his inability to control Qiu Yan and apologized to his mother, Old Madam Qiu. Qin Xuan, unable to get involved directly, also followed them out. Qiu Yan declared her intention to lodge a complaint at Fengjing Prefecture.
For the night, Qin Xuan offered his courtyard for her to stay, but Liang Yi interjected, warning that staying at the Duke Ying Residence would put Qin Xuan’s parents in a difficult position if the Qiu family came looking for her. Qiu Yan agreed it was inconvenient and asked Qin Xuan to find her an inn. Liang Yi then offered a room at the Firewood Office, assuring her it would be a safer alternative for a single woman.
Meanwhile, back at the Qiu Residence, the Fourth Brother (Qiu Di) complained to Official Qiu that Qiu Yan’s temperament would surely cause a huge scandal, perhaps even leading her to beat the Admonishment Drum by morning. Old Madam Qiu, however, remained composed, stating that if Qiu Yan wanted to cause trouble, she should be allowed to.
She believed that the Fengjing Prefecture would ultimately uncover the truth and clear the Qiu family’s name, rather than letting people accuse them of oppressing younger generations. She dismissed the family, asserting that a girl like Qiu Yan couldn't stir up too much trouble. Later, Official Qiu quietly confronted his mother, Old Madam Qiu, asking if she was involved in his wife Han’s death. Old Madam Qiu simply asked if he doubted her as well, then sat down silently.
At the Firewood Office, Qiu Yan immediately began drafting her complaint, determined not to let her mother's murderers go unpunished. Qin Xuan arrived and attempted to dissuade her, suggesting the physician might have made a false claim, as Official Qiu had asserted. Qiu Yan challenged him, asking the physician’s motive for a false claim and if Qin Xuan no longer believed her deductions, which had always proven accurate in the past.
Qin Xuan confessed he did not want to believe her this time, hoping that Han’s death had nothing to do with the Qiu family, as he did not want her to lose her family after losing her mother. Qiu Yan, however, insisted that after her mother’s passing, her home held no meaning for her, and she preferred to endure the torment of truth than to live a lifetime of self-deception.
She urged Qin Xuan to go home to prevent his parents from worrying. Later that night, Liang Yi came to check on Qiu Yan, claiming he was on night patrol. He found her still awake, meticulously refining her complaint. She asked him to review it, and Liang Yi probed her, asking if she had considered the consequences of her actions.
He pointed out that if she pressed the complaint, it would strain her relationship with the Qiu family and potentially affect the Qin family’s perception of her, despite Han not being her birth mother. Qiu Yan acknowledged that Han was not her birth mother but emphasized the profound warmth and care Han had shown her, patiently teaching her to read and write and secretly acquiring her beloved investigative stories.
She expressed deep regret that she would never have the chance to repay Han’s kindness and declared that avenging Han’s death was her sole purpose, dismissing romantic relationships, men, and her future as insignificant. She added that Liang Yi shouldn't have gotten involved, as it would only complicate his betrothal to Qiu Min.
Liang Yi then revealed his own painful past: his father had been framed six years prior, and as a powerless young master, he had been tormented by regret for being unable to avenge him, thus understanding her torment. Liang Yi meticulously reviewed her complaint, pointing out a major loophole: the lack of a clear motive for Old Madam Qiu, given their outwardly harmonious relationship.
Qiu Yan theorized that Old Madam Qiu might be an accomplice, covering for another member of the Qiu family or one of the concubines who harbored resentment towards the Second Chamber. Liang Yi countered that if Old Madam Qiu had truly colluded with Physician Li, she would have known the truth earlier and could have warned the real culprit instead of facilitating their actions. Qiu Yan then suggested the killer might have some leverage over Old Madam Qiu.
Realizing they needed more information, Qiu Yan proposed starting their investigation at the apothecary, tracing the red safflower Physician Li mentioned as the cause of Han’s poisoning. Liang Yi then urged her to rest, but Qiu Yan, eager to refine her complaint and ask him questions, insisted on staying up. Liang Yi, having his own official documents to review, agreed to keep her company.
As the night wore on, Qiu Yan eventually dozed off at her desk, and Liang Yi, after finishing his work, gently draped a blanket over her. The next morning, Qin Xuan prepared to visit Qiu Yan at the Firewood Office. His attendant questioned why he was still supporting Qiu Yan, given his earlier reluctance for her to uncover a potentially damaging truth.
Qin Xuan affirmed his decision, stating he couldn’t bear to see her sad and would accompany her in whatever she insisted on doing, even if he disagreed. His plans were cut short when his servant rushed in, announcing that his mother had suddenly experienced chest pains, prompting Qin Xuan to rush back home. Unbeknownst to him, his mother was feigning illness to prevent him from getting further involved in the Qiu family's scandal.
Meanwhile, Yuan Lang met with Official Lin Changzhi, the Minister of Works, implying knowledge of Lin's significant financial deficit. Yuan Lang subtly presented a memorial meant for the Emperor, pressuring Lin to find someone else to take the blame for the large deficit, effectively coercing him to frame the Qiu family to protect himself.
At the same time, Madam Mi was frantically urging her son, Qiu Di, to flee the capital, revealing that Qiu Yan had lodged a complaint at Fengjing Prefecture and they could both be implicated in Han’s death. Qiu Di, however, was reluctant to abandon the Qiu family’s wealth, for which his mother had toiled for decades. Madam Mi insisted it was a matter of life and death, leaving no room for luck, and forced him to leave.
As they attempted to escape the city, they were intercepted by Song Jin and men from the Firewood Office. Song Jin explained that they had investigated every apothecary in the city and found someone purchasing red safflower with a mole on their chin, which led them to Qiu Di. Knowing Qiu Di had returned to the capital but wasn't staying at the Qiu residence, they then traced him to Madam Mi's hidden location.
Under interrogation, Madam Mi reluctantly confessed that Qiu Min had revealed Qiu Di's true birth identity to Old Madam Qiu. Disturbed by this, Madam Mi had written to Qiu Di, who was studying abroad, and he had returned to plan their future. Qiu Yan immediately accused them of plotting her mother’s murder.
Madam Mi vehemently denied it, clarifying that Qiu Di had indeed purchased red safflower, but his intention was not to kill Han, whom they referred to as "Second Aunt." Instead, he wanted Madam Mi to mix a small, non-lethal dose of red safflower into plum wine for Qiu Yan and Qiu Min to drink, intending to cause them lifelong infertility as revenge for having ruined Qiu Di's future.
Madam Mi maintained that she had hidden the red safflower in her room, but it had mysteriously disappeared. She claimed she only realized Han’s death was due to red safflower poisoning when Qiu Yan confronted Old Madam Qiu. Qiu Yan remained unconvinced, suspecting Madam Mi was the real killer, believing she was covering for Qiu Di due to the perceived harm Qiu Yan and Qiu Min had inflicted upon his prospects.
She still pondered what leverage Madam Mi held over Old Madam Qiu. Liang Yi added another puzzling detail: Physician Li had described Han’s symptoms as internal heat, but her pulse was normal. Qiu Yan deduced that another medicine must have been secretly administered beforehand to create the illusion of a strange illness, ensuring that Han's eventual death would not raise suspicion.
A Firewood Office subordinate suggested torturing Madam Mi and Qiu Di for more answers, but Liang Yi refused, stating that this was a public case and any interrogation or punishment must adhere to the rules of Fengjing Prefecture to be valid.
He decided they would go to Fengjing Prefecture the next day with the existing evidence and Physician Li’s expected testimony to force Old Madam Qiu into a direct confrontation, believing this was the only way to uncover the full truth. Qiu Yan worried about unanswered questions, but Liang Yi insisted they could not delay, especially since Madam Mi and Qiu Di had almost escaped, and Old Madam Qiu would undoubtedly become alert if Madam Mi did not return.
Although Liang Yi had a royal court meeting to attend, Qiu Yan was determined to go to Fengjing Prefecture herself, with Song Jin offering to accompany her. Before Liang Yi’s meeting, Official Qiu intercepted him, asking about Qiu Yan’s safety and whereabouts. Liang Yi assured him that Qiu Yan was safe at the Firewood Office and would convey any needs.
Official Qiu, while acknowledging Liang Yi’s care for his daughter, reminded him that his betrothal was with Qiu Min, not Qiu Yan, and urged him to consider Qiu Min more. An imperial eunuch then announced the cancellation of the morning court meeting, summoning Liang Yi to the Imperial Study. The Emperor questioned Liang Yi about the recent chaos at his future father-in-law’s home. Liang Yi explained Han's suspicious death and Qiu Yan’s independent investigation.
Yuan Lang then stepped forward, accusing Liang Yi of “abuse of power” for hiding Qiu Yan at the Firewood Office and mobilizing his men to investigate apothecaries and inns as if the office were his personal property. Liang Yi admitted his actions were driven by concern for his future mother-in-law's unclear demise, accepting any punishment.
The Emperor, taking into account Liang Yi's betrothal to the Qiu family, excused him but sternly warned him not to interfere further in the Qiu family’s affairs during the mourning period. The Emperor also instructed his eunuch to release Physician Li’s daughter, who had been taken by Liang Yi's men earlier. Meanwhile, at Fengjing Prefecture, Qiu Yan formally lodged her complaint. Old Madam Qiu and Official Qiu Yi were brought before the magistrate.
Old Madam Qiu admitted that she had ordered someone to take the red safflower. She explained that her Fourth Son had a history of stealing, prompting her to plant a maid in the Fourth Chamber. This maid discovered Madam Mi hiding red safflower and immediately informed Old Madam Qiu, who then had the maid steal it for safekeeping. Old Madam Qiu claimed she intended to address the matter with Madam Mi after Han’s funeral, but Qiu Yan’s actions had interfered.
Qiu Yan, however, strongly implied that Old Madam Qiu was the primary suspect. Old Madam Qiu vehemently dismissed the idea that red safflower could have killed Han, requesting cooking utensils to demonstrate. She showed the magistrate a large amount of red safflower, explaining that while a small dose could induce miscarriage, a fatal dose was so large that no sane person would willingly consume it.
She challenged anyone to drink such a concoction and stated a physician could confirm her words. Qiu Yan immediately countered, asking what if her mother had been forced to drink the poison. Official Qiu Yi interjected, stating that if his wife had been forcibly poisoned, she would have surely informed him before her death. He urged Qiu Yan to stop her relentless pursuit and return home, warning her not to further tarnish her mother's reputation.
Qiu Yan then called Physician Li Zhengyuan as her witness, asserting that he had personally told her that her mother’s body showed clear signs of red safflower poisoning, not an infectious disease, and that Old Madam Qiu had instructed him to fabricate the illness. Physician Li was summoned to testify, but to Qiu Yan’s shock, he denied ever saying Han died from red safflower poisoning or that Old Madam Qiu instructed him to lie.
He claimed Qiu Yan and Liang Yi had coerced and threatened him and his daughter into making a false statement. When asked to explain, Liang Yi reiterated his admission of mobilizing the Firewood Office men due to his concern for his future mother-in-law, accepting any punishment. The magistrate declared Qiu Yan’s complaint a false accusation, sentencing her to twenty floggings according to law. However, Old Madam Qiu and Official Qiu Yi interceded, pleading for mercy due to Qiu Yan’s grief.
The magistrate commuted her sentence to kneeling outside the Qiu Residence and reciting the Filial Piety Commandment one thousand times as a warning. At the Qiu Residence gate, Qin Xuan arrived, despite his mother’s feigned illness and attempts to stop him, to accompany Qiu Yan. He refused to leave, stating he would stay with her. Together, Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan knelt, loudly reciting the Filial Piety Commandment.
Qiu Min’s attendant remarked that Madam Liu, Qiu Yan’s birth mother, showed no affection for her daughter and deemed her a disgrace, even refusing to visit. She suggested Qiu Min plead with Official Qiu Yi. Qiu Min, however, noted it was a Fengjing Prefecture punishment, and her plea would be in vain. Qiu Yan continued reciting until she eventually collapsed from sheer exhaustion. Qin Xuan, Qiu Min, and Qingdai quickly carried her inside.
Qiu Yan drifted into a dream, where she saw Han bidding her farewell, urging her to take care of herself and not to be overly strong. She awoke to find Madam Liu, her birth mother, beside her. Madam Liu immediately chided Qiu Yan for causing such a public spectacle, causing shame and embarrassment. Qiu Yan defended her legitimate mother, Han, but Madam Liu retorted, asserting that Han was nothing special, even inferior to an ordinary woman.
When Qiu Yan forbade her from speaking ill of Han, Madam Liu angrily revealed that Han had been having an affair with a monk behind Official Qiu's back. Qiu Yan was stunned but then remembered seeing half of a jade pendant with Master Zhenyan, a detail that now chillingly connected with Madam Liu’s shocking revelation.
Episode 16 Recap
Madam Liu revealed to Qiu Yan that Madam Han, Qiu Yan's legitimate mother, frequently visited Master Zhenyan at Taiying Temple every month, claiming their relationship went beyond discussing Buddhist texts or spiritual consecration. Madam Liu had observed them on several occasions and felt there was an unusual chemistry between them.
She specifically mentioned Master Zhenyan had a jade piece and Madam Han possessed a matching one, which Madam Liu once saw Madam Han staring at, implying it was a romantic keepsake.
Madam Liu defended her decision to not report this to Qiu Yi earlier, stating that she prioritized her own son's future, as Madam Han had no sons and Madam Liu feared Qiu Yi would remarry a younger woman who might bear a son, thus jeopardizing her own son's status as the sole male heir of the Second Chamber. Unconvinced, Qiu Yan still visited Madam Han's room and found the jade piece and other clues.
That night, Qiu Yan confronted Qiu Yi in the ancestral hall, holding up a broken jade piece she had found in Madam Han's room, which she believed Qiu Yi had shattered. She stated that this jade was the other half of the one Master Zhenyan carried, leading her to suspect Qiu Yi had wrongly concluded Madam Han was unfaithful and subsequently colluded with the Old Madam to poison her.
Qiu Yan further revealed finding red safflower residue under Madam Han's bed, which she claimed was left when Qiu Yi forcibly administered the poison. She admitted the physical evidence wasn't definitive proof of murder but insisted that if Qiu Yi suspected Madam Han based on the jade, he grievously wronged her, as Madam Han's deepest love was for him.
Qiu Yan revealed that she had seen a wish tablet at Taiying Temple, bearing her mother's prayers specifically for Qiu Yi's well-being, which further solidified her conviction that her mother had been devoted to him. She urged her father to surrender himself to the Fengjing Prefecture. Qiu Yi dismissed her accusations, then revealed that Master Zhenyan was dead.
Furious at Qiu Yan's defiance, Qiu Yi ordered his subordinates to lock her in the firewood room and forbid anyone from releasing her. Despite her pleas and questions about his lack of trust, Qiu Yi remained resolute. News from the Imperial Palace spread rapidly: His Majesty, enraged after reviewing a memorial submitted by Minister Lin Changzhi, had immediately ordered Yuan Lang to lead the Main Administrative Office in a raid on the Qiu family.
Liang Yi, upon hearing this, rushed to the palace but was informed by Eunuch Liu that His Majesty refused to grant him an audience, also advising him against involvement. Understanding that his engagement to the Qiu family made him suspect, Liang Yi sought an audience with Noble Consort Guo.
He explicitly stated his intention to sever all ties with the Qiu family and requested the Noble Consort to officially annul his marriage agreement, asserting that he did not wish to be associated with someone like Qiu Yi, who, despite serving the crown, had proven disloyal. Liang Yi also requested to assist the Main Administrative Office in their investigation.
Following this, the Emperor issued an oral decree for the Firewood Office to collaborate with the Main Administrative Office in raiding the Qiu family. Simultaneously, the raid on the Qiu Residence began. With both the Main Administrative Office and the Firewood Office barging in, Qiu Yi desperately urged Qiu Yan and Qiu Min to flee, insisting that as a government official, he could not abandon his post.
Realizing the Firewood Office's unexpected involvement limited his maneuvering room, Yuan Lang subtly instructed his men to leave a back gate to the courtyard open. His aim was to allow Qiu Yan and Qiu Min to escape, creating an opportunity to accuse Liang Yi of shielding fugitives. However, Liang Yi had anticipated such a move. Leading his own men, he tracked the sisters to Qin Xuan's residence.
Qin Xuan vehemently denied harboring them, claiming to be hosting poetry friends, and attempted to block Liang Yi's search, reminding him of his status as the heir to the Duke Ying Residence. Liang Yi sternly warned Qin Xuan against the serious implications of sheltering imperial fugitives. Disregarding Qin Xuan's pleas for past friendship and leniency, Liang Yi stated that the royal decree was the ultimate authority, and proceeded to locate Qiu Yan and Qiu Min hidden in Qin Xuan's study.
Liang Yi then ordered Song Jin to take Qin Xuan away, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to his duties. With the royal decree delivered, all Qiu men were ordered to the Main Administrative Office, and all Qiu women to the Jiaofangsi. However, Qiu Di, seeking to distance herself from the family's fate, bravely stepped forward.
She revealed that she was not a male member of the Qiu family and had been forcibly taken by Fourth Madam Mi years ago, compelled to live as her son. Qiu Di exposed Madam Mi's desperate "tanuki for crown prince" scheme: Madam Mi had given birth to a daughter but feared being divorced, so she kidnapped Qiu Di, a female child, to pass her off as the family's eldest grandson.
Qiu Di claimed Madam Mi's biological daughter was still alive, being raised at a wonton stall outside Heming Building. Qiu Hong, Madam Mi's husband, was utterly enraged by this revelation, confronting Madam Mi about her deceit. Overwhelmed by shame and despair, Madam Mi grabbed a pair of scissors and took her own life, leaving everyone present in shock and sorrow.
Amidst the shock and grief, the Qiu family’s despair deepened as Liang Yi appeared, having apprehended Qiu Yan and Qiu Min. Qiu Yi, already present, questioned the whereabouts of his daughters, which Yuan Lang had implied had escaped due to someone's negligence. Liang Yi presented the sisters, asserting they had never truly escaped, thereby foiling Yuan Lang's potential accusation of dereliction of duty or favoritism.
Yuan Lang, now with no further means to implicate Liang Yi directly regarding the escape, ordered all Qiu men to be sent to the Main Administrative Office and all women to the Jiaofangsi, with servants to be sold off. Liang Yi publicly stated that Noble Consort Guo had already annulled his engagement with the Qiu family, severing any ties to these "criminals." He then callously suggested that given the Qiu women's delicate appearance, they should be assigned the harshest labor.
Enraged, Qiu Yan confronted Liang Yi, accusing him of being heartless and disloyal. She reminded him of his initial sincerity when he sought Qiu Min's hand in marriage, now contrasting it with his willingness to trample the Qiu family underfoot to curry favor with His Majesty. Liang Yi coldly retorted that anyone who obstructed his path to power would be ruthlessly cast aside. He ordered Song Jin to remove Qiu Yan, while Qiu Min desperately pleaded for her sister's release.
Wang Shun, an official from the Jiaofangsi, dismissively told the new arrivals to shed their aristocratic airs and prepare for a life of toil, for they would receive no pampering there. After their arrival at the Jiaofangsi, Wang Shun instructed them to change into coarse linen clothes, a stark contrast to their accustomed silk garments.
That night, tensions flared as Qiu Mei and Qiu Ying selfishly claimed blankets, leading other family members to complain bitterly that the Second Chamber, specifically Qiu Yi's actions, were responsible for their predicament. Qiu Yan retorted, defending her father and accusing them of forgetting who had previously benefited them. The Old Madam intervened, reminding them that despite their hardship, they must maintain their dignity and cease arguing. Everyone spent a restless and sleepless night.
The following morning, Madam Wang arrived to assign chores. Due to Qiu Yan's earlier respectful demeanor and Wang Shun's favorable impression of her and Qiu Min, their assigned tasks were comparatively lighter. Madam Wang assigned Qiu Yan and Qiu Min, along with another compliant woman, to laundry duties.
In contrast, Qiu Mei and Qiu Ying, who had shown more resistance and less humility, were tasked with strenuous labor: Qiu Mei was designated to fetch water from the backyard, and Qiu Ying was assigned the unpleasant duty of scrubbing toilet buckets in the latrine. Both women complained vehemently, stating that such menial and dirty work was beneath them, even for their maids.
Madam Wang, however, curtly reminded them that they were no longer the pampered young ladies of the Qiu family and must accept their new reality. Meanwhile, Yuan Lang brought Qiu Yi to the main prison for interrogation. Yuan Lang presented what he claimed were confessions from Qiu Yi's three brothers, accusing Qiu Yi of various crimes. Qiu Yi adamantly denied them, asserting the confessions were fabricated.
Yuan Lang, however, mockingly described the methods he used to extract these "confessions," detailing how Qiu Ning was scared into confessing with fake silver notes, Qiu Hong broke after a single flogging, and another brother, who pursued self-cultivation, confessed after a night of sleep deprivation. Yuan Lang listed the alleged crimes, including corruption, embezzlement, and overstepping imperial authority.
Then, Yuan Lang shifted tactics, offering Qiu Yi a chilling deal: if Qiu Yi would publicly confess during his trial in three days that all his alleged wrongdoings were orchestrated by Liang Yi, then Yuan Lang would ensure Qiu Yi's safety and spare his family from the dire consequences of capital punishment. Otherwise, Qiu Yi would face the full weight of numerous charges, resulting in the complete annihilation of his family, including his mother and daughters.
Despite the Qiu family's predicament, Qin Xuan found a way to deliver a letter to Qiu Yan through Madam Wang. Madam Wang, who had witnessed many such expressions of devotion during her years at the Jiaofangsi, was deeply impressed by Qin Xuan's sincerity and the considerable effort and expense he went to ensure the letter reached Qiu Yan.
In his letter, Qin Xuan declared his profound commitment, stating he was willing to forsake his family, filial duties, and even his career to rescue both Qiu Yan and Qiu Min from the Jiaofangsi, promising to take them to a place where they could live beyond reach. Qiu Min, troubled by their family's ruined status, urged Qiu Yan to sever ties with Qin Xuan, fearing that their association would only drag him down.
However, Qiu Yan disagreed, asserting that if love was truly mutual, it constituted no burden. She insisted that she would not make decisions for Qin Xuan, as he was fully aware of her circumstances and had made his choice. Meanwhile, Liang Yi's trusted subordinate reported that despite their efforts, their informant within the Main Administrative Office had been unable to uncover any specifics about Qiu Yi's alleged crimes, noting the extreme secrecy surrounding the interrogation.
Liang Yi affirmed his belief that the Qiu family was merely an innocent party caught in a larger scheme, recognizing that Yuan Lang's true target was him. He concluded that Yuan Lang, frustrated by his inability to find direct fault with Liang Yi, had decided to exploit the Qiu family to create a pretext for framing him.
Realizing the danger of allowing the Main Administrative Office sole authority over the investigation, Liang Yi immediately resolved to seek an audience with Noble Consort Guo. He intended to request her assistance in securing a position as a co-judge in Qiu Yi's case, a move designed to prevent Yuan Lang from manipulating the investigation to fabricate accusations against him.
Episode 17 Recap
The Old Madam of the Qiu family became critically ill, her health rapidly deteriorating. Seeing her suffering, Qiu Yan offered Ms. Wang a valuable ebony hairpin, a keepsake from Qin Xuan, hoping it would secure medicine. Ms. Wang, however, refused the valuable item, insisting Qiu Yan keep it. Nevertheless, she agreed to fetch ginseng pills from the Royal Academy, promising to procure funds from Qin Xuan.
Qiu Yan brought the ginseng pills to the Old Madam, urging her to hold onto life, for Qiu Min's sake. The Old Madam, resigned to her fate, acknowledged the futility of the medicine, but she praised Qiu Yan for her capabilities, recalling how she had resolved the cases involving Young Master He and the fake notes. The Old Madam then observed Qiu Yan's lingering resentment, asking if she still blamed her for her mother's death.
Qiu Yan confirmed her bitterness, stating she held both the Old Madam and her father responsible. The Old Madam, recognizing Qiu Yan as the only one capable of shouldering the family's burdens, decided to reveal a long-held secret she had intended to take to her grave, warning that its disclosure could lead to the Qiu family's total execution. The Old Madam revealed that Qiu Yan's mother, Ruogu Wei, was originally named Wei.
Years ago, Ruogu Wei's father obstructed the Emperor's construction of a Taoist temple, leading to their entire family's banishment. While exiled, they were attacked by bandits, but Ruogu Wei and her younger brother miraculously escaped. Being old family friends, Old Master Qiu secretly harbored the siblings, granting them new identities. Ruogu Wei was married to the second son, Qiu Yi, while her brother, being male, was sent to Taiying Temple, later becoming Master Zhenyan.
The two jade pendants, which Qiu Yan had seen, were merely tokens of their sibling bond. Qiu Yan then questioned why her father had reacted so violently to the jade pendant. The Old Madam explained that Master Zhenyan's true identity was discovered shortly after Qiu Min's engagement was arranged. Master Zhenyan argued with his senior, pleading for secrecy, but during the dispute, both fell from a cliff and died.
This incident drew the attention of the Fengjing Prefecture, and Qiu Yi, investigating the matter, learned that Yuan Lang had taken over the case. Fearing for Ruogu Wei and the Qiu family's safety, Qiu Yi devised a plan for Ruogu Wei to feign illness and death, allowing him to secretly transport her out of the capital and away from Yuan Lang's investigation.
However, Ruogu Wei insisted on a "true death" to ensure the plan's absolute success, believing it was the only way to protect her family. Heartbroken, the Old Madam provided Ruogu Wei with red safflower, which she had confiscated from Mi, instructing her to boil it in a fatal dose. In her final moments, Ruogu Wei conversed with Qiu Yi, acknowledging his lifelong sacrifice for her.
She revealed her knowledge of his past love for a woman named Miss Xia, their childhood connection, and how fate had intervened. She understood his lingering regret, which was why he had secretly taken Madam Liu as a concubine in Yuezhou, as Madam Liu bore a resemblance to Miss Xia. Ruogu Wei then stated that she had spoiled Qiu Yan because her initial experiences upon entering the Qiu family six years prior mirrored her own.
She wished for Qiu Yan to live freely, unlike her own cautious existence. The Old Madam concluded her confession by telling Qiu Yan that her own death was insignificant, but she implored Qiu Yan not to hate her father or the Qiu family.
She then passed down the Qiu family's heirloom finger guard to Qiu Yan, entrusting her with the family's future and urging her to lead the women of the Qiu family to live on, regardless of whether Qiu Yi's name could be cleared. Qiu Yan clutched the finger guard, her resolve hardening.
Following the Old Madam's passing, Yuan Lang convened a public trial for Qiu Yi, accusing him of embezzling funds for the temple's construction, citing two hundred thousand taels found in his home and merchant Hu Wan as a witness. Yuan Lang pressed Qiu Yi to confess and implicate a mastermind, implying Qiu Yi, a mere fourth-rank official, could not have acted alone. However, Qiu Yi steadfastly maintained his innocence, denying both the embezzlement and external influence.
Yuan Lang then brought in Qiu Yi's three brothers—Qiu Hong, Qiu Xian, and Qiu Ning—who had been coerced into giving false confessions. To Yuan Lang's astonishment, the brothers recanted their statements, asserting they had been tortured in prison. They publicly declared their unity with Qiu Yi, recognizing their shared plight.
Enraged by their unexpected solidarity, Yuan Lang, noting how the family had been at odds during the fake silver note incident, redirected his focus, recalling a family member who claimed not to belong to the Qiu family during the raid. He then specifically targeted Qiu Di, the son of Fourth Madam Mi. Later, Ms. Wang sent Qiu Yan to deliver clothes to a young lady in the forecourt.
There, Qiu Yan unexpectedly encountered Liang Yi engaged in an intimate drinking session with an unidentified woman. Ms. Wang later informed Qiu Yan that the woman was Shi Xiaoxiao, the most renowned courtesan of the Royal Academy, noting that even she treated her with deference. Shortly after, Liang Yi stormed into the backyard, publicly accusing Qiu Yan of planting needles in Shi Xiaoxiao's clothes, fabricating a reason to drag her to the woodshed for a private conversation.
Qiu Yan, playing along, verbally sparred with him, calling him a "shameless scoundrel" while Liang Yi remarked on her vigor. Once in the relative privacy of the woodshed, Qiu Yan revealed her understanding that their staged fight was a performance orchestrated for Yuan Lang, and that Liang Yi's prior order for the Qiu women to perform labor was a calculated move to safeguard their purity and make it appear that he had genuinely turned against the Qiu family.
Liang Yi confirmed her deductions. He disclosed that Qiu Yi's official charge was embezzling funds for the temple's construction, with Hu Wan as a key witness. Qiu Yan vehemently denied her father's guilt. Liang Yi then divulged that the impeachment was initiated by Lin Changzhi, the Minister of Works, who was closely associated with Hu Wan, and had recently acquired a sum of money identical to that found in Qiu Yi's home.
Qiu Yan quickly deduced that Lin Changzhi had embezzled the funds and conspired with Yuan Lang and Hu Wan to frame her father. Liang Yi confirmed that Lin Changzhi was a mere facade, with Yuan Lang being the true mastermind, whose ultimate goal was to politically isolate Liang Yi by preventing his marriage into the Qiu family.
Qiu Yan also deduced that Liang Yi had intentionally allowed her and Qiu Min to flee the Second Chamber during the raid, providing Yuan Lang a pretext to accuse Liang Yi of favoritism, which Liang Yi confirmed. He added that during the trial, Yuan Lang had repeatedly tried to coerce Qiu Yi into implicating Liang Yi, but Qiu Yi, understanding the gravity, had only confessed to embezzlement to protect Liang Yi.
Liang Yi apologized for the hardship inflicted on Qiu Yan's family, stating that Yuan Lang's pre-emptive actions necessitated extreme caution on his part. Qiu Min, having heard their conversation, rushed in, begging Liang Yi to release Qiu Yan. Qiu Yan restrained her, insisting they not beg such a person. During the exchange, Qiu Yan deftly located a key on Liang Yi's person and used it to unlock her golden cuffs, surprising him.
As Ms. Wang and Mr. Wang approached, attempting to intervene, Liang Yi dramatically warned Qiu Yan, threatening severe consequences if she crossed him again, before departing. Qiu Min, now aware of the true circumstances, asked if Liang Yi could save their father. Qiu Yan explained that Liang Yi's prior cancellation of their engagement was a calculated move to avoid Yuan Lang's suspicion, making immediate direct assistance impossible.
Qiu Yan then tearfully confessed to Qiu Min that she had been mistaken about their mother's death, now realizing she had died of illness and that she had wrongly blamed her father and the Old Madam. Qiu Min, relieved, embraced her sister.
Soon after, Qin Xuan arranged to meet Qiu Yan, offering to pay her way out of the Royal Academy and take her, Qiu Min, and Madam Liu to Yuezhou to open a bookhouse, promising a life free from suffering. Qiu Yan, remembering the Old Madam's dying wishes, firmly rejected his proposal. She delivered a calculatedly harsh rejection, asserting that she had only approached him to become the lady of the Duke Ying Residence, a prospect now impossible.
She mockingly dismissed his offer of a lowly merchant's life, stating that the Royal Academy, filled with powerful individuals, offered her the chance to find a wealthy patron and live a life of luxury as a pampered concubine. Qin Xuan refused to believe her, seeing through her words and arguing that if she truly felt nothing, she wouldn't have agreed to meet him.
Qiu Yan vehemently dismissed his sentiments as self-infatuation, coldly declaring their relationship over and claiming she had never felt true love for him. Mr. Wang, surprised by Qiu Yan's rejection of a patron, commended her "rectitude" but warned her of harsher treatment from Ms. Wang. Indeed, Qiu Yan's standing diminished.
Mr. Wang reassigned her and others from washing clothes to the arduous task of cleaning toilet buckets, much to the glee of Qiu Ying, who had previously been assigned this chore. When Ms. Wang complained about a newly cleaned bucket still reeking, she berated Qiu Yan. However, Qiu Yan, observing traces of blood in Ms. Wang's personal bucket, cleverly deduced that the Ms. Wang suffered from hemorrhoids.
She feigned knowledge of a folk remedy, claiming she had applied it to the bucket to allow Ms. Wang to absorb its medicinal vapors daily. Impressed by Qiu Yan's perceptiveness and apparent thoughtfulness, Ms. Wang immediately reassigned her to serve the young ladies in the forecourt, much to Qiu Ying's dismay. Qiu Min, surprised by Qiu Yan's purported medical knowledge, watched as Qiu Yan admitted she had fabricated the remedy, knowing Ms. Wang wouldn't verify it.
Madam Liu, also now confined to the Royal Academy, remarked on Qiu Yan's cleverness and expressed hope that she would secure a favorable match. Qiu Yan advised her to be content and avoid trouble. In the forecourt, Qiu Yan began serving Shi Xiaoxiao, who initially mistook her for Ms. Wang attempting to coerce her into meeting Baron Zhang. Qiu Yan delicately praised Shi Xiaoxiao's refinement, dismissing the baron as insignificant.
When Shi Xiaoxiao mused about being a "floating weed," Qiu Yan shrewdly pointed out that if she truly drifted, she wouldn't risk displeasing Ms. Wang by refusing such encounters. Recognizing Qiu Yan's astuteness and principled demeanor, Shi Xiaoxiao was pleased and decided to keep Qiu Yan by her side, entrusting her with the management of her affairs.
Meanwhile, Qin Xuan sought out Liang Yi, apologizing for his previous rude behavior following Qiu Yan and Qiu Min's arrest, acknowledging Liang Yi's difficult position. He pressed Liang Yi for information on Qiu Yi's case, asking about the charges and their severity. Liang Yi, however, refused to disclose details, citing the imperial nature of the investigation. Qin Xuan pleaded with him, explaining that Qiu Yan had ended their relationship to protect him.
He confessed his desire to rescue her from the Royal Academy, even suggesting Liang Yi use the Firewood Office's might to "bust her out." Liang Yi sternly rebuked Qin Xuan, reminding him that the family was arrested by imperial order and that any attempt to "bust them out" would lead to Qin Xuan's own arrest. Qin Xuan, frustrated, accused Liang Yi of caring only for his position, denouncing him as cold, selfish, and unfeeling, before formally severing their friendship.
Liang Yi simply congratulated Qin Xuan on finally seeing his "true nature." Later, Liang Yi's subordinate questioned why he had not explained his actions to Qin Xuan. Liang Yi revealed that the situation was a dangerous game between him and Yuan Lang, where Yuan Lang's moves were lethal. He stated that Qin Xuan's ignorance was crucial for his safety.
Liang Yi explained that the only way to save the Qiu family was to directly defeat Yuan Lang, acknowledging that Qiu Min and Qiu Yan would have to endure hardship in the interim. He expressed confidence that Qiu Yan, in particular, could navigate these difficult circumstances.
Episode 18 Recap
Liang Yi arrived early at the Royal Academy, bringing a gift of rouge for Shi Xiaoxiao. Qiu Yan observed his uncharacteristically tender demeanor towards Shi Xiaoxiao, a stark contrast to his usual coldness when handling cases, which gave her a new perception of him. Liang Yi then asked for refined dishes, indicating he hadn't eaten yet. Later, Qiu Yan prepared a nourishing soup for Liang Yi.
He deliberately complained that it tasted bad and insisted Qiu Yan taste it herself, then commanded her to drink it all. Qiu Yan initially didn't understand his intentions until Shi Xiaoxiao subtly explained that Liang Yi was likely showing his concern for her hard work. Ms. Wang informed Shi Xiaoxiao that Qiu Di from the Main Administrative Office specifically requested her company.
Despite Shi Xiaoxiao's initial reluctance to interrupt her meal with Liang Yi, Ms. Wang explained the potential criticism if she turned down such an important guest. Recognizing Qiu Di as the man with a mole on his chin, Liang Yi told Qiu Yan to leave and gave Shi Xiaoxiao a brocade box, implying she could use it to decline intimacy.
Qiu Yan then encountered a drunken Qiu Di, who brazenly admitted he was no longer a criminal but a "key witness." He revealed that he would write any testimony Official Yuan (Yuan Lang) desired, as long as he was entertained. Qiu Yan confronted him about his betrayal, reminding him of the Qiu family's decade-long kindness. Qiu Di, however, expressed his long-held desire to escape the Qiu family and his current burden to lead them once Second Uncle was incriminated.
As Shi Xiaoxiao led Qiu Di away, Qiu Yan confided in Liang Yi, expressing her searing hatred and helplessness at seeing her enemy enjoy himself, a feeling that tore at her heart. Liang Yi acknowledged that Qiu Di was also his enemy. The next evening, Qiu Di, having been gifted an incense pellet by Shi Xiaoxiao, left happily, promising to return. He lit the incense pellet in his room that night and soon suffocated to death.
Yuan Lang arrived to investigate, and the coroner reported no signs of forced entry, external wounds, or poisoning, concluding Qiu Di died of an asthma attack. Yuan Lang, though suspecting foul play from someone within the Royal Academy, admitted he couldn't act against them. He bemoaned Qiu Di's death, as it foiled his plan to use him to frame Liang Yi and have the Emperor punish him.
He revealed that all male members of the Qiu family had already been exiled to Gannan. Liang Yi, angered by Yuan Lang's relentless pursuit, initiated a plan to redeem the Qiu women. He considered Qin Xuan, but acknowledged Qin Xuan lacked the authority to act independently. General He was also not an option as his wife was bedridden after Qiu Yan's annulment. Liang Yi realized he couldn't directly involve anyone too close to him, lest Yuan Lang find leverage.
He needed a few days to find a suitable person. Meanwhile, Yuan Lang, having observed Liang Yi's recent contacts with officials, deduced Liang Yi's true motive during the raid on the Qiu residence. He realized Liang Yi had appeared ruthless, sending the Qiu women to the Royal Academy, but only to protect their innocence. Determined to thwart Liang Yi, Yuan Lang decided to pressure the Royal Academy and summoned Ms. Wang.
During a lightning storm that night, Madam Liu burdened Qiu Min with all the heavy chores. Qiu Min, typically meek, accepted it, believing Madam Liu cared for her. Qiu Yan, witnessing Qiu Min's fear and timidness, refused to help her, hoping her sister would learn to stand on her own feet and stop deceiving herself. She stressed that Qiu Min could not rely on others forever.
The following morning, while Qiu Yan was accompanying Shi Xiaoxiao to the Marquis Yongming Residence to deliver pear soup, she unexpectedly encountered Qin Xuan. He confessed he had scaled the wall just to see her, despite his mother's objections, and reiterated his unwavering love, accepting her new circumstances.
However, Qiu Yan, resolute in her decision, coldly rejected him, stating she now met many high-ranking officials and would use her cunning to select a suitable man, just as she had "calculated" him in the past. She urged him not to worry, as she was doing well and would do even better. Liang Yi observed their strained interaction from a distance. During the performance, Young Master Meng attempted to harass Shi Xiaoxiao, but Qiu Yan intervened, stopping him.
Enraged, Meng Yu turned his aggression towards Qiu Yan, but Liang Yi arrived just in time to stop him, prompting Meng Yu to angrily retreat due to Liang Yi's authority. Liang Yi then questioned Qiu Yan's actions, advising her to endure such situations as a maid rather than provoking trouble.
Later, Ms. Wang gathered the Qiu women to announce the final verdict on the Qiu family's case: Qiu Yi was convicted of embezzlement, and all Qiu men were exiled to Gannan. Furthermore, due to Qiu Yan's previous defiance at the Marquis Yongming Residence where she injured Young Master Meng, all Qiu women were permanently registered in the Royal Academy and could not be redeemed until death. This devastating news crushed their hopes.
Meanwhile, Shi Xiaoxiao felt unwell and couldn't perform, and other girls were unavailable. Qiu Yan, seeking a way out, volunteered to take the stage and tell a story titled "The Vermilion Bird Saves Its Master," about a celestial being who descended to the mortal realm and promised to aid those who called upon him in need.
Her storytelling captivated the guests, prompting Ms. Wang to immediately order Wang Shun to prepare a nameplate for Qiu Yan, allowing her to officially receive guests. News of Qiu Yan's new role quickly reached both Liang Yi and Yuan Lang. Both men promptly arrived at the Royal Academy, vying for her attention. Ms. Wang explained that Qiu Yan had voluntarily put up her nameplate due to her captivating storytelling.
Yuan Lang, initially asserting his claim by noting Qiu Yan's familial connection to Liang Yi, intended to use her to expose Liang Yi's alleged care for the Qiu family. However, Liang Yi quickly seized Qiu Yan's nameplate, preventing her from being claimed by Yuan Lang. Yuan Lang, not wishing to argue further, gracefully conceded, sending a jar of Chunhui wine as a congratulatory gift to Liang Yi.
Inside their room, Qiu Yan and Liang Yi deliberately engaged in a fabricated display of intimacy to deceive Yuan Lang, who was listening outside. Yuan Lang's subordinate reported a vague scene, leading Yuan Lang to mistakenly believe Liang Yi's actions were driven by a desire to protect Qiu Yan's purity, hoping to catch them red-handed if they attempted to escape later. After Yuan Lang departed, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan drank the Chunhui wine in the courtyard.
Liang Yi, observing Qiu Yan's troubled expression, inquired if there was another reason behind her mother's death. Under Liang Yi's compassionate gaze, Qiu Yan confided in him about a secret shared by the Qiu Old Madam and showed him a thumb ring, signifying her new responsibility as the eldest daughter of the Qiu family. She expressed her deep hatred for Yuan Lang and the Emperor, feeling they were responsible for her family's downfall.
However, she also revealed that she had initially felt immense hatred for Liang Yi, believing he was the reason Yuan Lang targeted her family, but ultimately understood that the Qiu family was merely collateral damage in his ongoing struggle with Yuan Lang. Liang Yi, expressing his sincere apology, promised to bring justice to her family.
Episode 19 Recap
Qiu Yan, having been forced into the Royal Academy despite her family's reputation being salvaged, decided to break off her relationship with Qin Xuan to avoid implicating him further. In a state of drunkenness, she mistook Liang Yi for Qin Xuan and poured out her heart, expressing deep regret. She confessed to using him as a "lifeline" and admitted her self-serving nature, stating that she dragged him into her troubles.
She claimed he was no longer her most important person and that she felt burdened and couldn't carry him along anymore, having many other people and important things to attend to. She also believed everyone, except her mother, hated her, considering herself a "jinx" and a "dead weight." Liang Yi, understanding her state, offered to help her to her room. As he did so, they accidentally shared a kiss, which Qiu Min witnessed.
Liang Yi then instructed Ms. Wang, the madam, to ensure Qiu Yan would not serve any other clients for the next month, handing over 100 taels in silver notes for her care. Ms. Wang readily agreed. News of Qiu Yan's new life at the Royal Academy quickly reached Marquis Yongming Residence. Qin Xuan heard that Qiu Yan had begun entertaining guests and that Liang Yi had spent a fortune booking her schedule.
Despite this, Qin Xuan steadfastly believed that Qiu Yan was acting under duress and that Liang Yi's intentions were noble, having booked her to protect her maidenhood rather than exploit her vulnerability. He expressed frustration at his inability to help her. Meanwhile, Qiu Min confronted Qiu Yan, bitterly congratulating her on Liang Yi spending 100 silver notes to book her.
Qiu Min accused Qiu Yan of being overly intimate with Liang Yi, completely forgetting Qin Xuan in a matter of days and never shedding a tear for him. Qiu Min condemned her as fickle-minded and questioned if she now had to cry for Qin Xuan every day. Qiu Min initially thought Qiu Yan's break-up with Qin Xuan was to protect him and her entertaining guests was a sacrifice for their family's survival, and that Liang Yi was protecting her maidenhood.
However, she now believed Qiu Yan was solely thinking of herself, discarding Qin Xuan when he was no longer useful and coveting Liang Yi's power and position. Qiu Yan, angered by the accusations, defiantly admitted that she indeed only planned for herself, stating that this wasn't the first time Qiu Min had known her, and confirmed her intention to "climb the social ladder and attach to the powerful," whether it was Liang Yi or Qin Xuan.
Qiu Min retorted that Qin Xuan deserved someone better. Liang Yi brought the wood supplier, Hu Wan, to the Firewood Office for interrogation regarding Official Qiu Yi's embezzlement case. Hu Wan initially refused to confess, claiming Official Yuan would not let Liang Yi off if he resorted to torture. However, Liang Yi explained his unconventional method: a silver needle, thin as hair, inserted into a specific point near the lungs.
This needle, carrying a slow-acting poison, would cause the lungs to gradually shrink over three days to the size of an infant's fist, leading to a sensation of drowning without leaving any external marks. Terrified, Hu Wan immediately confessed. He revealed that Official Lin Changzhi of the Ministry of Works had repeatedly demanded bribes for the imperial temple's wood supply, forcing Hu Wan to use subpar materials.
When Official Qiu Yi discovered the deception and demanded an audit, Official Yuan intervened. Yuan offered Hu Wan and Lin Changzhi a deal: accuse Official Qiu of embezzlement, and Yuan would plant the bribe money in the Qiu Residence, thus ensuring their safety. Meanwhile, Official Yuan, dining with another official, acknowledged that Hu Wan had been apprehended by the Firewood Office. He was fully aware that Hu Wan, being spineless, would confess everything under duress.
Yuan admitted that his intention was for Hu Wan to confess to Liang Yi. He explained that he had personally submitted the Qiu case to the Emperor for judgment. If Liang Yi were to use Hu Wan's confession to appeal the Qiu family's case, it would not only contradict Yuan but also imply that the Emperor had erred in his judgment, a truth the proud Emperor would never admit.
Yuan meticulously planned that if Liang Yi submitted Hu Wan's testimony, he would accuse Liang Yi of bribing Hu Wan, then have Hu Wan killed and frame Liang Yi for his murder, making it impossible for Liang Yi to clear his name before the Emperor. That evening, Qiu Yan learned that Official Lin Changzhi was hosting a lavish banquet at the Royal Academy.
Despite being booked by Liang Yi, she insisted on attending, claiming Liang Yi wouldn't know or wouldn't severely reprimand her. She approached Lin Changzhi and Yuan Lang, offering her services. While Lin Changzhi was initially dismissive, Yuan Lang, recognizing her, invited her in and revealed her identity as Official Qiu Yi's eldest daughter. Lin Changzhi feigned sympathy, offering to help her, but quickly became lecherous, demanding she call him "Brother Lin" and serve him to his satisfaction by drinking more.
Qiu Yan, attempting to gather information, proposed a drinking game: she would drink a cup for every interesting detail Lin Changzhi shared about the temple construction. She pressed him about the supplier of the valuable gold Nanmu logs, to which he began to mention "Hu. . ." before being interrupted. Suddenly, Liang Yi stormed into the room, confronting Lin Changzhi for his behavior towards Qiu Yan.
He asserted that Qiu Yan was "his woman" and demanded an explanation for Lin Changzhi's actions, despite Lin Changzhi claiming Qiu Yan had volunteered. Liang Yi, feigning anger but expressing genuine jealousy, pulled Qiu Yan away from the banquet. Qiu Yan, though initially protesting, questioned his possessiveness, pointing out that he had only booked her to protect her reputation as Qiu Min's elder sister, not because she was truly "his."
Liang Yi, however, hinted that his reasons might be deeper than merely protecting her as Qiu Min's sister. Qiu Yan played along, commenting that he performed his role very convincingly. As expected, Yuan Lang was observing their exchange from a distance. He concluded that Liang Yi's intense concern for Qiu Yan indicated genuine affection, not merely an extended care for Qiu Min's sister.
Yuan Lang reflected on Liang Yi's past actions, which, though seemingly cold, consistently protected the Qiu women, deducing that Liang Yi's true interest lay with Qiu Yan. He reasoned that while political marriages often prioritized legitimate daughters like Qiu Min, true affection knows no such boundaries. After they were alone, Liang Yi questioned Qiu Yan about her decision to serve Lin Changzhi and Yuan Lang, expressing disgust at her willingness to interact with those who framed her family.
He reminded her that he had booked her to ensure she and the other Qiu women lived comfortably without having to serve other clients. Qiu Yan admitted her actions were indeed distasteful but explained she was trying to extract information about her father's case from Lin Changzhi, claiming she was close to a breakthrough before Liang Yi intervened.
Liang Yi admonished her, calling her "foolish" and warning her that Lin Changzhi was a "sly fox" who would have exploited her without hesitation. Qiu Yan, frustrated, asked what else she could do, indicating her reluctance to remain a passive "caged bird" in the Royal Academy. Liang Yi reassured her that he would address her father's case but stressed the dangers of her acting alone.
Liang Yi then presented Qiu Yan with Hu Wan's signed confession, which detailed how Lin Changzhi and Yuan Lang had conspired to frame Official Qiu Yi. However, Liang Yi immediately burned the confession in front of Qiu Yan. He explained that the document was now useless because the Emperor had already concluded the case.
To reopen it and present new evidence would be to implicitly suggest that the Emperor had made a mistake or had been misled, something the proud and self-assured Emperor, despite his current focus on refining pills, would never tolerate. Liang Yi warned that an appeal would only be perceived as him being impartial or even colluding against the throne, which would implicate not only him but everyone involved.
He confirmed that Yuan Lang's scheme was formidable, as Yuan Lang intended to accuse Liang Yi of bribing Hu Wan, then murder Hu Wan and frame Liang Yi for the death, thereby ensuring Liang Yi could never clear his name before the Emperor. Liang Yi admitted there was "another way" to pursue justice, but it required "thorough planning."
When Qiu Yan, suspicious, suggested he was merely trying to keep her confined to the Royal Academy and prevent her from causing trouble, Liang Yi simply stated that he would visit her again tomorrow. After Liang Yi left, Qiu Yan, frustrated, internally called him a "blockhead" for always helping others achieve their goals at his own expense. Qiu Yan learned that Qiu Min had caught a cold and offered to arrange for a physician to see her.
To better care for her sister, Qiu Yan suggested Qiu Min move into the empty outer room of her greenhouse, ensuring privacy from the main chamber. However, Qiu Min, still holding grudges, flatly refused. She defiantly stated she found her current room cleaner than Qiu Yan's "dirty place" and would rather endure Madam Liu's scolding and physical abuse than compromise her maidenhood by stepping into such an establishment.
Qiu Yan, unable to express her true feelings, could only worry in silence. Meanwhile, Madam Liu proved to be a harsh guardian, constantly berating Qiu Min for being lazy and sickly, even accusing her of still acting like a pampered young lady from the Qiu Residence and being a "bottomless sinkhole." Despite Qiu Min's pleas of illness, Madam Liu ruthlessly forced her to go to the firewood room to fetch charcoal.
For several days, Liang Yi consistently sought out Qiu Yan whenever he visited the Royal Academy, much to the chagrin of Shi Xiaoxiao. One day, Shi Xiaoxiao attempted to draw Liang Yi's attention by offering to perform a new song for him. Qiu Yan, seeing this, immediately approached Liang Yi, displaying a bouquet of flowers she had received from other patrons. Liang Yi, feigning jealousy, questioned her for accepting gifts from others, suggesting she was deliberately provoking him.
Qiu Yan countered that as he wasn't always present, she still had to adhere to the Royal Academy's rules and perform. When he asked if she preferred him or the flowers, she quickly affirmed her preference for him. He then presented her with a beautiful jade necklace, a thank-you gift he had promised her long ago at Taiying Temple. Qiu Yan genuinely liked the gift, admitting her fondness for anything more valuable than rouge.
She then playfully asked if she looked better than Shi Xiaoxiao, to which Liang Yi declared her beauty unrivaled, even though Qiu Yan playfully critiqued his exaggerated praise. She then stated her intention to flaunt the necklace to others, solidifying the perception of Liang Yi's exclusive favor towards her. Later, other Qiu women, including Qiu Mei and Qiu Ying, warned Qiu Yan against continually provoking Shi Xiaoxiao, fearing that if Liang Yi's visits ceased, Shi Xiaoxiao would retaliate.
Qiu Yan, however, maintained that she had always shown Shi Xiaoxiao respect and that it was Shi Xiaoxiao who insisted on the rivalry. She vowed not to give Shi Xiaoxiao any opportunity for revenge. Qiu Yan checked on Qiu Min's health, learning that her condition hadn't improved much, though Madam Liu was tending to her. Despite Qiu Yan's concern, Qiu Min remained distant, refusing to talk to her sister.
Qiu Yan expressed her distrust of Madam Liu and asked Ms. Wang to keep a close eye on Qiu Min. Meanwhile, forced by Madam Liu to fetch charcoal, Qiu Min went alone to the remote firewood room. There, Wang Shun, observing her vulnerability, cornered her. He commented on her delicate hands, lamenting her difficult work, and then trapped her, explicitly stating that no one in the forecourt would hear her screams in the secluded rear yard.
Qiu Min, terrified, tried to escape, but she was trapped and helpless against him. Later that night, Qiu Min returned disoriented and broken, bitterly blaming Qiu Yan for her predicament. She contemplated taking her own life, first by cutting her wrist, then by submerging herself in a water tub.
As she began to drown, she suddenly recalled Qiu Yan's past words about her weakness and running from problems, urging her to change, to not be so meek, and to stop using helplessness as an excuse for fear. Remembering that she was no longer a pampered young lady and no one would cater to her, Qiu Min's will to live ignited. She resolved to transform herself, vowing to become stronger than her sister.
Shi Xiaoxiao, consumed by jealousy over Qiu Yan's favor with Liang Yi, orchestrated a harsh retaliation. She accused Qiu Yan's sisters, Qiu Mei and Qiu Ying, of deliberately sprinkling lily pollen on her bed, knowing her severe allergy, and claimed Qiu Yan had orchestrated the act. Despite Qiu Yan's attempt to reason that any defense would be futile against such accusations, Ms. Wang held Qiu Yan responsible as her sisters were under her care.
Shi Xiaoxiao, asserting her authority, demanded that Qiu Yan and her sisters be confined for half a month and banished to a desolate, unkempt yard in the northeastern corner of the Royal Academy, far from the forecourt. The Qiu women were forced into this dilapidated new living quarter, lamenting their return to hardship and blaming Qiu Yan for their predicament. Qiu Yan, however, calmly urged them to tidy the place. During this upheaval, Qiu Yan realized Qiu Min was missing.
Meanwhile, an informant reported to Yuan Lang about the quarrel between Qiu Yan and Shi Xiaoxiao, and Qiu Yan's banishment from the forecourt. Yuan Lang found the situation "interesting," especially noting that Liang Yi had left the capital for a business trip, leaving Qiu Yan exposed. With their new dire living conditions, Qiu Min, refusing to return to the "rickety place," desperately approached Ms. Wang, offering to serve guests by singing and reciting poems, but her plea was rejected. Wang Shun was seen speaking with Qiu Ying, who also seemed to be seeking a similar path, highlighting the dire circumstances the Qiu women now faced.
Episode 20 Recap
The women of the Qiu family, confined to the Royal Academy, continued to bicker amongst themselves despite their shared misfortune. Qiu Yan stepped forward, reminding them that with their home gone and the Old Madam deceased, they had only each other in such a perilous place. She urged them to unite and face their adversities together, stating it was their only chance for survival.
Qiu Yan revealed that she had deliberately provoked Shi Xiaoxiao to be banished to their current courtyard, which had a thin wall that could be breached within five days, and someone would be waiting outside to pick them up. Meanwhile, Qiu Ying approached Wang Ma to entertain guests and live a better life, distinguishing herself from Qiu Yan, who had gotten on Shi Xiaoxiao's bad side.
Seeing this, Official Yuan took Qiu Ying aside, promising her a better life, even freedom from servitude, if she provided him with information. Eager for release, Qiu Ying, following Qiu Yan's and Liang Yi's strategic plan, disclosed false information: that in half a month, Marquis Yongming Residence would supposedly hire Qiu Yan for a performance.
Qiu Yan would then take the other women in a carriage, and men from the Firewood Office, disguised as refugees, would intercept them, making it appear as if they were captured by bandits. Liang Yi would then arrange for their escape and shelter. On the day of the planned escape, Liang Yi had Song Jin drive a decoy carriage carrying the Old Madam's relatives towards the city gate.
Official Jiang attempted to inspect the carriage, but Song Jin, feigning urgency, pushed past, then staged a commotion with beggars to create a diversion. Meanwhile, Qiu Yan and the other women successfully bypassed checkpoints by hiding in a dung cart. After their smooth escape from the city, Qiu Yan thanked Qiu Ying for her pivotal role in the plan. Yuan Lang, who had been informed of the decoy escape plan by Qiu Ying, lay in wait, expecting Qiu Yan.
To his surprise, only Shi Xiaoxiao was in the carriage. Shi Xiaoxiao clarified that Marquis Yongming Residence had always hired her, exposing Liang Yi's "decoy" strategy. Realizing he had been tricked, Yuan Lang ordered his men to return to the Royal Academy and search the Qiu family's courtyard, but found it empty. Believing the women had escaped via the Bian River, Yuan Lang immediately ordered his men to search every boat upstream and downstream.
That night, the Qiu women boarded a boat. However, the next morning, news arrived that the boat had hit reefs. The bargeman confessed that only he had survived, and just one female body was found, stuck in the cabin, the others presumed swept away by the current. Beixue informed Liang Yi that people were discussing the boat accident and an unidentified body.
Official Tong, despite the body being unrecognizable due to water immersion and fish, concluded it was Qiu Yan based on her clothing. Yuan Lang expressed skepticism, pointing out that if eight women were on board, there should be more bodies. Official Tong explained the quicksand nature of the Bian River. Qin Xuan, devastated by the news, rushed to identify the body.
Though he initially struggled to confirm the identity due to the body's condition, he was horrified to find the ebony hairpin he had personally carved for Qiu Yan, which she wore constantly. This confirmed for him that it was indeed Qiu Yan, and he was overwhelmed with grief. Despite Yuan Lang's lingering suspicion about the singular body and the "too deliberate" nature of the discovery, the case was officially closed by Official Tong with the "witness, evidence, and body" present.
Yuan Lang, still unconvinced, ordered a search of all villages outside the city, notably excluding Guangji Hall, an institution for the mentally ill, which he believed would be an unlikely hiding place for the women. Meanwhile, Liang Yi, though rumored to be burning joss papers, refused to see Qin Xuan, who surmised that Liang Yi's actions were a ruse and Qiu Yan might still be alive.
Indeed, the Qiu family women were safely hidden in Guangji Hall, which, ironically, was the safest place given it was dismissed by Yuan Lang. Madam Liu complained bitterly about living with the "crazy" and "drooling" residents, longing for the Royal Academy. Qiu Yan reminded her that they were wanted fugitives and owed their refuge to the manager, an old acquaintance of Liang Yi.
Soon after, a letter from Qiu Min was discovered, expressing her feelings of inadequacy and being a burden to the family. She declared her intention to "leave," asking them to consider her as having "gone with our late mother," which led her family to fear she intended to end her life at her mother's grave. Driven by concern for Qiu Min, Qiu Yan decided to return to the city, despite warnings about the patrolling officers.
She reasoned that to the authorities, she was already presumed dead, making her less likely to be recognized. Upon entering the city, she encountered a fraudulent old woman who feigned injury and demanded ten taels of silver. As officers approached, Qiu Yan fled. Just as she was cornered, Liang Yi pulled her into Heming Building. He chastised her recklessness, reminding her how close she was to being arrested by the Fengjing Prefecture authorities.
However, Yuan Lang's men had spotted them entering the building, and soon, Heming Building was surrounded. Liang Yi and Qiu Yan, thinking quickly, feigned an intimate encounter in a room. When Yuan Lang burst in, accusing Liang Yi of harboring the fugitive Qiu Yan, Qiu Yan confidently introduced herself as "Su Yiwan." Yuan Lang, disbelieving, insisted she was Qiu Yan. Just then, Official Tong arrived.
Liang Yi explained the situation, emphasizing that Su Yiwan was his "love interest" and Yuan Lang had simply made a mistake due to a resemblance. Official Tong, acknowledging Su Yiwan as a reclusive songstress from Jizhou, examined Qiu Yan closely. Despite her strong physical resemblance to Qiu Yan, he declared that "the bearing is quite different" and concluded, "She is not Qiu Yan." Yuan Lang, calling Official Tong a "slippery eel," demanded Su Yiwan sing for them.
Liang Yi interjected, stating that Su Yiwan was now his concubine and only sang for him. Official Tong privately admitted that even if she were Qiu Yan, he would deny it to avoid reopening the case he had already closed. Lacking direct evidence and with Liang Yi's new claim, Yuan Lang was forced to leave. Meanwhile, Qiu Min had sought out Qin Xuan.
She confirmed she was alive but implicitly perpetuated the belief in the boat accident, claiming it hit a reef and she was the only one washed ashore. She told him she only remembered Qiu Yan remained in the cabin when the final wave struck. Qin Xuan was distraught, refusing to believe Qiu Yan was dead. He expressed deep regret and guilt, lamenting his inability to prevent the misfortunes that befell their family and Qiu Yan's death.
Qiu Min offered to comfort him, suggesting he view her as Qiu Yan. Qin Xuan, in his drunken sorrow, mistook Qiu Min for Qiu Yan, calling out her name repeatedly, then realizing she was not his beloved. Qiu Min then asked him for a kiss. Qin Xuan had arranged for Qiu Min to stay at Yao Gai's place. He was also assured by the troupe leader of Heming Building, whom he once saved, that their secret would not be revealed.
Liang Yi was informed by Beixue that Qin Xuan likely suspected the boat accident was a setup. Liang Yi, focused on finding Qiu Min and clearing his family's name, dismissed the thought of Qin Xuan, indicating their relationship was over.
Episode 21 Recap
As Qin Xuan remained asleep, Qiu Min woke early. Soon after, Song Jin arrived with his men, intending to bring her back to the Firewood Office. Qiu Yan, overjoyed to see her sister alive, rushed forward to embrace her. However, Qiu Min responded coldly, first politely thanking Liang Yi, then pulling Qiu Yan aside.
She confessed her true intentions: she had deceived Qin Xuan into believing she was dead and had nowhere else to go, and she had already become his. She firmly declared she would never return to the old and dingy Guangji Hall to suffer again. Qiu Yan, enraged by Qiu Min's words, slapped her.
She clarified that the slap was not because Qiu Min deceived Qin Xuan, but because Liang Yi, Song Jin, the panhandlers, boatmen, and Guangji Hall managers had all committed grave crimes to help the Qiu family escape. Qiu Min’s reckless actions and capture would mean disaster for them and the entire Qiu family. Qiu Min, however, remained defiant, asking if one slap was enough and inviting another if it wasn’t.
She then threatened to expose the Qiu family's hiding place in Guangji Hall if Qiu Yan refused to help her maintain the lie to Qin Xuan and the aunts and madams. She declared that for Qin Xuan, she cared nothing for anyone's safety or lives, adding that if she couldn't be happy, no one else would. Qiu Yan was horrified, reminding Qiu Min that she used to be the one who considered the greater good.
Qiu Min retorted that Qiu Yan herself had taught her to fight for herself, asserting that the pure, innocent, and obedient Qiu Min had died long ago in the entertainment quarter when Qiu Yan was busy vying for attention and acting intimately with Liang Yi. She bitterly accused Qiu Yan of being absent when she needed her most, stating that she no longer needed her.
Qiu Min concluded by saying she would ask Liang Yi to send her back to Qin Xuan, never to return to Guangji Hall. Following Qiu Min's resolute departure, Qiu Yan stood rooted to the spot, weeping, while Liang Yi, who had witnessed the entire exchange from outside, was left with complex emotions. Later, Qin Xuan awoke, disoriented and disheveled. He recalled drinking with Qiu Min the previous night and asking her to drink with him until they were drunk.
As Qiu Min returned with breakfast, Qin Xuan panicked and dressed quickly. Realizing he had taken advantage of her while drunk, he reproached himself, calling himself a "scum" and an "animal," and slapped himself. Qiu Min immediately embraced him, feigning pity, telling him she understood he acted out of devastation and would not hold him accountable.
She then tearfully pleaded for him to stay with her, saying she was all alone and only had him, and that Qiu Yan, if watching from above, would want him to care for her. The next day, Jiang Yun from the Main Administrative Office arrived at Liang Yi’s residence with a grand procession, announcing congratulations for Liang Yi taking a concubine. This spectacle drew half the capital’s residents. When Liang Yi returned, Madam Jin immediately questioned him.
Qiu Yan then appeared, introducing herself as Su Yiwan, and humbly offered to serve in the Liang household. Jiang Yun explained to Madam Jin that Official Yuan had detected suspicious behavior from a female entertainer and confronted her, only for Liang Yi to suddenly appear and publicly announce she was his newly wedded concubine. This was done to ensure Liang Yi wouldn't hold a grudge against Official Yuan.
Song Jin later informed Liang Yi that Qiu Yan could no longer leave the city because Yuan Lang had deliberately made the matter public to keep her trapped. Madam Jin, still perplexed, pressed Liang Yi and Qiu Yan about when they met. Their conflicting answers—Liang Yi saying "yesterday" and Qiu Yan saying "long ago"—only deepened her suspicion. Liang Yi tried to cover for Qiu Yan, excusing her illiteracy and candid speech.
Madam Jin, however, decided to question Qiu Yan alone and sent Liang Yi off to morning court. At court, various officials, hearing the news, congratulated Liang Yi, teasing him about finally showing emotions like a normal person, given his usual stoic demeanor. Later, the Emperor, seeking amusement, asked Liang Yi and Yuan Lang for interesting news. Liang Yi offered a dull report about Li Wei taking over as Governor-general of Zhili.
Yuan Lang then seized the opportunity to recount the "wonderful news" from Liang Yi’s household. He exaggerated, claiming an old lady was injured by the entertainer, and that a Yamen officer had stumbled upon Liang Yi during an intimate encounter. He painted Liang Yi as a man so enraged at the interference with his concubine that he drew his sword and threatened to behead anyone who touched her.
To Yuan Lang's chagrin, the Emperor was highly amused and impressed, remarking on Liang Yi's newfound boldness and "fighting spirit" for his loved one. The Emperor saw it as a sign of Liang Yi's humanity and even bestowed gifts upon him, wishing for "many sons" and "prosperous seed," much to Yuan Lang's disappointment. Upon returning from court, Liang Yi rushed back to the residence. Meanwhile, Qiu Yan, demonstrating quick wit, fabricated an elaborate story for Madam Jin.
She claimed that she had been abandoned by her family to bandits to save her brother, and Liang Yi, accompanied by Song Jin, had rescued her, giving her a fan as a keepsake. She explained her lowly status made life difficult, and the fan was her only solace. She humbly stated she desired no title, only to remain by his side due to their mutual affection.
Madam Jin, deeply moved and sympathetic to Qiu Yan's "tragic background," revealed her own past as a maid before marrying into the Marquis's family. She assured Qiu Yan that Liang Yi had simply underestimated her mother’s understanding and acceptance, and promised Qiu Yan would no longer be lonely, valuing her because Liang Yi valued her.
Just then, Liang Yi arrived, and Madam Jin immediately enlisted his help in choosing a room for Qiu Yan, insisting it would be their new marital chamber. Madam Jin enthusiastically began inspecting rooms. She rejected a small, elegant western room due to strong sun glare, and a spacious northern room with a fake mountain and pool, fearing it would be dangerous for future children. She ultimately settled on Liang Yi’s childhood study, spacious and bright.
Despite Liang Yi’s protests that it would be a chore to clear his childhood keepsakes and that Qiu Yan might feel she was bothering him, Madam Jin insisted, stating Qiu Yan should indeed "bother him" more. She then personally directed the decoration, instructing servants to replace curtains with festive red ones, remove a folding screen, and set up a cozy, brightly colored bed.
She also presented Qiu Yan with various fabrics and folding screens, including a Huanhua fabric gifted by the Noble Consort and screens with dragon and phoenix or lovebirds. Liang Yi, knowing Qiu Yan’s true preferences, tactfully interjected that she preferred plain colors, yarn folding screens, a black soapstone ding, the Hidden Gem Painting, and Ruanyan silk for her clothes.
Madam Jin was touched by Liang Yi's seemingly intimate knowledge of "Wan'er's" tastes, happily noting how much he seemed to care for her. She then informed all the household servants that Madam Su’s word was as weighty as Liang Yi’s, demanding they show her proper respect. During dinner, Qiu Yan, acting as the doting concubine, offered a spoonful of steamed egg to Liang Yi. Madam Jin immediately interjected, reminding Qiu Yan that Liang Yi was allergic to eggs.
Liang Yi quickly dismissed it as a childhood issue, eating the egg to maintain their charade. However, the allergy was real, and he soon suffered severe abdominal pain. He feigned needing to read important documents and rushed away, followed by a concerned Qiu Yan. Alone in his room, he collapsed in her arms, revealing he had almost died from egg allergies as a child.
Madam Jin, overseeing from outside the door, misinterpreted their hurried departure and the subsequent sounds as passionate intimacy, believing she would soon have grandchildren. She instructed Song Luo to leave them undisturbed and have their meals delivered directly to their courtyard, expressing her satisfaction. After Liang Yi recovered, Qiu Yan tried to leave his room, but he stopped her, indicating his leg was numb from the earlier fall.
Just then, Madam Jin appeared at their door, scolding them for not sleeping together on their wedding night. Liang Yi tried to claim Qiu Yan didn't mind, but Qiu Yan, playing along, confessed that she did. Madam Jin, pleased, announced she had arranged a three-day leave for them to stay together in the residence.
Later that night, as Qiu Yan tried to sneak out of the room, she found Madam Jin still guarding the door, forcing her to retreat and continue their act of marital bliss with Liang Yi. The next morning, Liang Yi noted that Madam Jin had locked their door from the outside to ensure they stayed together. Qiu Yan also pointed out Song Luo's suspicious behavior, noting she seemed to be eavesdropping despite Madam Jin dismissing all servants earlier.
Liang Yi revealed that Song Luo was Yuan Lang's spy, planted in his residence years ago, and he had kept her close precisely to feed her false information when necessary. He warned Qiu Yan that now, everyone in the household viewed her as Madam Su, requiring her to be exceptionally careful with her words and actions. Meanwhile, in his own courtyard, Qin Xuan found Qiu Min curled up on her bed, crying and trembling due to the loud thunder outside.
He offered her a blanket, concerned she might catch a cold. As he prepared to leave, Qiu Min begged him to stay, saying she was afraid to be alone in the large house and pleading for him to keep her company until she fell asleep.
Episode 22 Recap
Outside, a thunderstorm raged, preventing Qiu Yan from resting. She rose, intending to drown her sorrows, but as she reached for a wine pot, Liang Yi playfully startled her, warning that Madam Jin might have added something to it, hoping for grandchildren. Retreating in surprise, Qiu Yan then watched Liang Yi retrieve a hidden stash of wine.
Noticing the shackle on his wrist, she playfully encouraged him to wear the other one as well, suggesting it would display Firewood Office's preparedness and help him subdue criminals without a fight. As the heavy rain poured down, Qiu Yan and Liang Yi sat together, sharing wine and confidences. Liang Yi mused that only downpours like this could truly wash away the bloody scent of the Firewood Office, making the world feel clean.
Qiu Yan worried about getting drunk again, but Liang Yi reassured her that he could not get drunk when he had something on his mind. He promised to send someone to inform Madam Liu and the rest of the Qiu family about her and Qiu Min's whereabouts once the rain stopped. Qiu Yan recalled the strict Qiu family rules, even requiring them to pay respects in bad weather.
She remembered a particularly stormy day when family members bickered in front of the Old Madam, making her wish they would disappear. Now, without them, she felt an emptiness. She also remembered Qiu Min’s lifelong fear of thunder, always running to their mother for comfort. When a similar storm hit at the Royal Academy, Qiu Min came to her trembling, but Qiu Yan, wanting her sister to be stronger, heartlessly ignored her, a decision she now regretted.
Liang Yi reassured her he would see the Qiu family matters through, hoping for their reunion and newfound maturity. Meanwhile, Qin Xuan remained by Qiu Min's side, but he maintained a polite distance, devoid of any romantic overtures. Qiu Min, seeing her sister Qiu Yan was gone, desperately wished Qin Xuan would acknowledge her.
She confessed her feelings, admitting she had liked him since their first meeting and even selfishly found some good in their family's confiscation because it meant she wouldn't have to marry Lord Liang. However, Qin Xuan, gently but firmly, told her his heart held only Qiu Yan's shadow and memories, leaving no room for anyone else, and urged her not to fall deeper. Later that night, Qiu Yan, thoroughly inebriated, passed out.
She awoke the next morning to find herself in bed. Just then, Song Luo arrived to bring their washing water. Liang Yi, startled, quickly scrambled onto the bed and pulled the covers over both of them, sharing a wide-eyed stare with Qiu Yan. Song Luo, observing the scene, reported the situation, noting nothing overtly unusual. Yuan Lang, upon hearing the report, remained suspicious, convinced that despite a lack of obvious flaws, there was always a weakness in every meticulous plan.
To hasten Qiu Yan's transformation into Su Yiwan, Liang Yi arranged for Shi Xiaoxiao to teach her the zither. Qiu Yan, already aware that Shi Xiaoxiao was an informer for the Firewood Office, played along, keeping Madam Wang and others in the dark. When Qiu Yan bowed to Shi Xiaoxiao, she thanked her for the secret kindness shown to the Qiu family women at the Royal Academy. Shi Xiaoxiao confirmed her role as Firewood Office's "eye."
Liang Yi suggested Shi Xiaoxiao teach Qiu Yan "Endless Yearning," a piece Su Yiwan excelled at. Shi Xiaoxiao, initially skeptical of Qiu Yan's musical foundation, explained that the plucked zither could be mastered quickly and the piece's power lay in emotion. She instructed Qiu Yan to think of the person she loved while playing, noting that Qiu Yan’s initial attempts lacked emotion, resulting in dull notes. When Qiu Yan finally immersed herself, the music became stirring.
Liang Yi praised Shi Xiaoxiao as a valuable asset to the Firewood Office, recounting her tragic past: once a young lady from an official family, her family was convicted, her father executed, and she and her younger sister sent to the Royal Academy. Liang Yi had found her playing cheerful songs while tears streamed down her face, heartbroken over her sister’s death—a death for which the academy had not even provided a coffin, forcing Shi Xiaoxiao to entertain guests.
Liang Yi had helped bury her sister, and in return, Shi Xiaoxiao willingly became his informer. Qiu Yan, realizing their shared hardship, noticed Shi Xiaoxiao's gaze lingered on Liang Yi as she spoke of thinking of a loved one. Qiu Yan, relying on her "woman's instinct," concluded that Shi Xiaoxiao harbored feelings for him. Liang Yi initially dismissed it but later agreed to minimize contact with Shi Xiaoxiao, citing Firewood Office's strict rule against emotional entanglements.
Qiu Yan, hearing this, called him "heartless," then teased him about his own emotional playing, even claiming she was thinking of her mother. Liang Yi then admitted that his earlier display of anger wasn't entirely fake. The next morning, Qiu Yan found herself studying Liang Yi's sleeping face. Their peaceful moment was interrupted when Madam Jin suddenly arrived with a hot pot of deer antler and pigeon soup.
Startled, Liang Yi quickly pulled the covers over himself and Qiu Yan in an attempt to hide, but Madam Jin had already noticed a pillow out of place and the disheveled bedding, demanding an explanation. Qiu Yan, thinking quickly, concocted a story: she claimed she had been upset with Liang Yi the previous night and had made him sleep on the floor.
She explained that she had invited Shi Xiaoxiao to exchange musical skills, and Liang Yi had repeatedly praised Shi Xiaoxiao’s zither skills, earning him the punishment of sleeping on the floor. Liang Yi, playing along, confirmed he had begged for forgiveness all day. Madam Jin, infuriated, chastised her son for complimenting another woman in front of his own. She ordered him to apologize immediately.
As Liang Yi grudgingly offered an apology, Madam Jin pulled Qiu Yan aside and sternly advised her not to forgive men too easily, warning that if she didn't assert control early on, men would become difficult to handle later. Buoyed by Madam Jin’s unwavering support, Qiu Yan decided to fully commit to the act.
She continued to refuse Liang Yi’s apologies, claiming they lacked sincerity and demanding he balance out his past insults, such as "scheming" and "shameless," with an equal number of compliments. Liang Yi, exasperated but outmatched by the formidable duo, relented and brought her numerous expensive gifts. He whispered a warning to Qiu Yan to stop pushing her luck. However, Madam Jin unexpectedly appeared, misinterpreting the scene as Liang Yi bullying Qiu Yan with gifts, and once again reprimanded him.
Thanks to Madam Jin’s fierce protection, Qiu Yan’s standing in the Liang residence soared. That night, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan slept in separate rooms. Liang Yi tossed and turned throughout the night, waking the next morning with dark circles under his eyes, prompting Song Luo to ask why he slept better on the floor. Meanwhile, Qin Xuan, heartbroken, sought solace at a familiar opera house.
Listening to the melancholic performance of "Autumn River," a story of forbidden love and forced separation that mirrored his own situation, only intensified his longing for Qiu Yan. Taking advantage of the situation, Yuan Lang discreetly dispatched his subordinates to circulate a scandalous play throughout the capital's storytelling houses.
Titled "The Concubine's Secret Residence," the play thinly veiled a love story between "Lengshuang," a court official, and "Yanhong," a criminal’s daughter, who entangled and fell in love, with Lengshuang even rescuing Yanhong from a dungeon. The public quickly recognized the thinly veiled references to Liang Yi and Qiu Yan. Later, at court, Yuan Lang openly questioned Liang Yi about taking a concubine, intending to humiliate him.
However, Liang Yi skillfully parried the questions, deflecting the accusations by claiming his concubine was of too lowly a background to be introduced. Though initially reluctant, Liang Yi eventually agreed to host a banquet to present her. Back at the residence, Qiu Yan diligently practiced her zither, struggling with the instrument. Liang Yi, having returned from court, finally offered a heartfelt apology, and their playful standoff ended.
Qiu Yan, now aware of Yuan Lang’s attempts to ruin her reputation through the play, expressed her anger. Liang Yi, after some thought, suggested that rather than suppressing the rumors and confirming their truth, they should proactively confuse the public by mixing truths with falsehoods, turning the tide in their favor.
Episode 23 Recap
Liang Yi initiated the first step of his plan by hosting a grand banquet under the name of his new concubine, Su Yiwan. Many guests, including Meng Yu, the eldest son of Earl Yongyi, attended, drawn by the pervasive rumors surrounding Liang Yi and Qiu Yan and their curiosity about the woman who had captivated Liang Yi. Upon seeing Liang Yi with Su Yiwan, Meng Yu immediately identified her as Qiu Yan.
Liang Yi clarified that Su Yiwan merely looked like Qiu Yan, a fact he himself had initially confused. Despite his explanation, the guests remained skeptical, finding it too coincidental for Liang Yi to encounter two individuals with such similar appearances. Seeing the persistent doubt, Liang Yi confessed that he had indeed taken Su Yiwan as his concubine because of her resemblance to Qiu Yan.
He then recounted his past desire to marry a noble daughter but revealed that he had come to find Qiu Yan more captivating than her younger sister, Qiu Min, during their time at the Imperial Entertainment Bureau. He sadly added that both Qiu sisters had drowned while attempting to escape from the Imperial Entertainment Bureau.
He claimed that encountering Su Yiwan, who bore such a strong resemblance to Qiu Yan, felt like destiny, prompting him to bring her into his residence. " Su Yiwan," who was Qiu Yan in disguise, expressed her sorrow at being treated merely as a shadow of another. Liang Yi, however, reassured her, stating that after spending time with her, he found "Su Yiwan" to be more charming, making Qiu Yan the true shadow.
Qiu Yan, in character, playfully chided him for keeping secrets, to which Liang Yi admitted he liked her jealousy. Following guests' suggestion, "Su Yiwan" performed a zither piece, "Longing." Yuan Lang praised her exceptional zither skills but subtly implied that her rapid mastery of an instrument she supposedly knew nothing about just days prior was suspicious and proved nothing.
Meng Yu, while acknowledging the facial similarity between "Su Yiwan" and Qiu Yan, found "Su Yiwan" much more interesting, even jokingly asking Liang Yi to find him a similar companion for himself. Still unconvinced, Yuan Lang announced he knew an old patron of Su Yiwan who fondly remembered her, suggesting that this person's identification would settle the matter. Liang Yi initially resisted, insisting that "Wan'er's" past was severed, and accused Yuan Lang of trying to ruin his wedding day.
However, urged by other guests and Yuan Lang's argument that it would dispel all rumors, Liang Yi agreed to let the man in. The person brought in was Yao Gai, a gambler Liang Yi and Qiu Yan had previously helped. Earlier, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan had discussed how to counter Yuan Lang's investigation.
Qiu Yan suggested they use Song Luo to feed Yuan Lang a false lead, then employ a trustworthy individual with a clean background to act as a false witness to confirm Su Yiwan's identity. She proposed Yao Gai, recalling his gratitude despite his gambling habits, assuring Liang Yi that not all gamblers were greedy. Liang Yi had given Yao Gai money and promised protection from the Firewood Office, securing his cooperation.
Yao Gai, upon seeing "Su Yiwan," feigned an emotional reunion, dramatically confirming "she is Su Yiwan," claiming he would recognize her even if she were "burned to a cinder." Liang Yi feigned outrage at Yao Gai's "disrespect," declaring Yao Gai had offended him, and ordered Song Jin to take the gambler to the Firewood Office for punishment.
Yuan Lang attempted to argue that Yao Gai was a mere unreliable vagrant, but Liang Yi cut him off, accusing Yuan Lang of trying to spoil his banquet and threatening consequences if he continued to question "Su Yiwan's" identity. Unfazed, Yuan Lang asserted his duty to investigate the Qiu family's suspicious deaths and Liang Yi's involvement in the scandal.
He then revealed that Su Yiwan's old family had reported a distinctive willow-leaf-shaped burn scar on her back, stating that if "Su Yiwan" lacked this mark, she must be Qiu Yan. Liang Yi expressed hesitation about such a personal examination in public. Yuan Lang suggested that the noblewomen and their servants could conduct the verification privately behind a screen.
However, "Su Yiwan" (Qiu Yan) insisted on an immediate examination behind the screen, claiming she had "no luxury of pride and honor." Skeptical of the Firewood Office's known disguise techniques, Yuan Lang produced a "disguise solvent" from the Main Administrative Office, claiming it could dissolve any fake scars. He demanded "Su Yiwan" apply it to her scar in front of the female guests. Liang Yi vehemently protested, accusing Yuan Lang of going too far.
At this point, Madam Jin, Liang Yi's mother, intervened. She acknowledged Yuan Lang's duty as an inspector and firmly stated that if Su Yiwan proved to be a criminal's daughter, she herself would be the first to turn her over to the authorities. Madam Jin then personally applied Yuan Lang's solvent to "Su Yiwan's" back behind the screen, with Song Luo also present as a witness.
After verifying the scar remained unchanged, Madam Jin confronted Yuan Lang, asking if he had any more doubts and demanding he publicly clear "Su Yiwan's" name. Defeated, Yuan Lang made a hasty excuse and departed from the residence. After the guests dispersed, Liang Yi questioned Qiu Yan on how she managed to fool Song Luo during the scar examination. Qiu Yan clarified that she hadn't fooled anyone, as a fake scar would have been easily exposed by Yuan Lang's solvent.
She revealed that she had intentionally burned herself with charcoal to create a real scar, ensuring her disguise was foolproof. Liang Yi was deeply upset by her self-inflicted injury and chastised her, warning of severe health consequences even with medicine. Qiu Yan, seeing his anger, redirected the conversation by asking him to teach her self-defense, hoping to protect herself and avoid being a burden in the future. Liang Yi, still concerned but seemingly swayed, agreed to her request.
Unexpectedly, Qin Xuan arrived at the residence. Liang Yi introduced him to "Su Yiwan," who greeted Qin Xuan. Other guests commented on Qin Xuan's past devotion to Qiu Yan and how "Su Yiwan" looked identical to her. Qin Xuan, visibly stunned, observed from a distance, drinking alone, as guests encouraged Liang Yi and "Su Yiwan" to drink cross-cupped wine for a lasting marriage.
Qin Xuan interrupted, taking the cups himself to "demonstrate" the correct way, forcing Liang Yi and "Su Yiwan" to drink, his gaze fixed on "Su Yiwan." When Qin Xuan referred to "Qiu Yan," Liang Yi corrected him, stating "you've mistaken the person." Another guest tried to rationalize Qin Xuan's mistake, attributing it to his heartbreak over losing Qiu Yan.
Qin Xuan then rejected a collective toast, instead confronting Liang Yi directly, demanding to know why he had hidden his wedding from him, feeling betrayed as a friend. Liang Yi tried to dismiss it as Qin Xuan being drunk. Qin Xuan then asked "Su Yiwan" if she did not wish to see him. Another guest suggested Qin Xuan's heart belonged to Qiu Yan, and "fate" had merely sent an identical woman to Liang Yi.
Qin Xuan was eventually led away by another guest. Before leaving, Qin Xuan offered three distinct toasts: first, wishing Liang Yi and "Su Yiwan" a harmonious marriage; second, honoring his long-standing friendship with Liang Yi, emphasizing their mutual trust in times of crisis; and third, which "Su Yiwan" (Qiu Yan) took, acknowledging Qin Xuan's past affection for Qiu Yan and thanking him for attending despite the circumstances. Qin Xuan then abruptly left the banquet.
Outside, a heavily intoxicated Qin Xuan, stumbling, was helped by Song Jin. In his drunken state, he emotionally declared that "you're alive, that's the greatest thing in the world" to "Su Yiwan" (Qiu Yan), reaching out to embrace her. Song Jin intervened, stating Qin Xuan was mistaken, and helped him into a carriage where Qiu Min was waiting to take him away. Qiu Yan observed this scene from a distance.
The next morning, Liang Yi began teaching Qiu Yan martial arts. During their training, Qin Xuan suddenly appeared, demanding to speak with Liang Yi. Song Jin attempted to stop him, but Liang Yi permitted it. Qin Xuan confronted Liang Yi, questioning why he had planned Qiu Yan's rescue without informing him, excluded him from all plans concerning the Qiu family, and even concealed Qiu Yan's survival.
He initially assumed Liang Yi acted to protect him but then pressed further, asking why Liang Yi felt it necessary to take Qiu Yan as a concubine. Liang Yi corrected him, stating he didn't save Qiu Yan for Qin Xuan's sake. He confessed that he devised plans for her, risked his life for her, and even saved her family, all "because he likes her."
Qin Xuan was stunned, recalling Liang Yi's past efforts to thwart his relationship with Qiu Yan, suspecting Liang Yi harbored feelings for her even then and had deliberately interfered. Liang Yi admitted he initially viewed Qiu Yan as opportunistic but couldn't pinpoint when his feelings changed, only that he found himself yearning to see her, to engage in witty arguments, and to hear her insightful analyses of cases.
Qin Xuan accused Liang Yi of taking advantage of the situation and acting despicably, reminding him that "a gentleman does not steal another's beloved." Liang Yi boldly retorted that he was "never a good man" and would abandon any semblance of righteousness for Qiu Yan, challenging Qin Xuan to fight for her if he dared.
Liang Yi then revealed that he had been monitoring Qin Xuan and Qiu Min's movements, implying knowledge of their intimate relationship, and confirmed that Qiu Yan was aware of it too. Horrified, Qin Xuan tried to rush off to explain himself to Qiu Yan. Liang Yi blocked his path, stating there was nothing to explain and that Qin Xuan, as a man, should "own his mistake." Enraged, Qin Xuan drew his sword and lunged at Liang Yi.
Liang Yi stood his ground, making no attempt to dodge. Qin Xuan, taken aback, lowered his sword and, in a daze, stumbled out of the residence. That night, Liang Yi led Qiu Yan, blindfolded, to a rooftop. She quickly deduced they were there to release sky lanterns, a detail she had shown interest in after a previous case, and which also symbolized the scene of their first significant meeting after growing up.
As they lit and released the lanterns into the night sky, Qiu Yan was delighted. They each wrote a wish on a sky lantern without peeking at each other's. Qiu Yan's wish was related to her family's well-being. Liang Yi's lantern, which he had secretly prepared, was inscribed with the words, "May Qiu Yan be free from all perils and harms." Seeing his message, Qiu Yan was deeply touched. From a distance, Madam Jin observed the young couple, a gentle smile of contentment gracing her face, seeing her son appear genuinely happy after a long time.
Episode 24 Recap
News arrived at the Firewood Office from the borders, informing Liang Yi that Qiu Yi had contracted a severe fever during his exile, and after four or five days, physicians saw no improvement. Recognizing the urgency, Liang Yi instructed Song Jin to keep this information from Qiu Yan, wishing not to add to her worries. Song Jin then inquired about the auspicious item, the immortal pearl from the Hongzhen Sutra, that they had been searching for.
They had previously found a large Eastpearl in Japan, but it was too fragile to be carved, and other stones like lapis lazuli and Amazonites were too common. Song Jin recalled the Night-luminescent Pearl, a family heirloom from Duke Lu's residence, suggesting its resemblance to the immortal pearl. Liang Yi, knowing the pearl was still with Gao Yang, emphasized their limited time, as Qiu Yi, a scholar, had a weak constitution and might not endure much longer.
Liang Yi then sought out Gao Yang, who questioned his presence. Liang Yi came to see how his old friend was doing, while Gao Yang, despite his family's destitution, stubbornly clung to the heirloom, claiming he had never harmed anyone and thus possessed his own blessings. Liang Yi, noting Gao Yang's poverty, questioned his steadfastness, offering to buy the pearl.
Gao Yang retorted that the honor of his clan could not be valued by money, asserting he had nothing left to lose and was unafraid of death. Liang Yi reminded Gao Yang that he had spared his life when he brought down Duke Lu for his father's murder, urging him not to self-destruct. Liang Yi presented him with a final chance to turn his fate around.
Gao Yang seized the opportunity, demanding that Liang Yi submit a memorial to His Majesty, vindicating his father. Liang Yi deemed this impossible, citing His Majesty's disposition and the matter being beyond his power, and again offered a monetary price. Gao Yang reiterated his lack of interest in money, insisting on the memorial. He specifically asked Liang Yi to write that the Gao family had aided him or had reformed, requesting His Majesty to restore their name and status.
Liang Yi expressed his difficulty with the request, to which Gao Yang replied with satisfaction, viewing it as karmic retribution. Gao Yang retorted that since Liang Yi had caused his family to be destroyed, he now wanted Liang Yi to personally elevate his father's killer and witness his immense suffering; otherwise, Liang Yi would not get even a fragment of the pearl. Later, at his father's memorial tablet, Liang Yi confessed his dilemma, asking if his father would blame him.
He recalled his vow to make Duke Lu pay with his life, ruin his reputation, and ensure the Gao family never recovered. He admitted he had no other recourse, emphasizing that Qiu Yan was of paramount importance to him, and this matter was equally crucial, just as avenging his father had been. He sadly acknowledged his unfilial act. Returning home heavily inebriated late that night, Liang Yi was helped by Qiu Yan, who expressed concern for his excessive drinking.
As he requested water, Qiu Yan searched for items to make a paper kite in a chest where he kept his childhood belongings. To her astonishment, she discovered that his "Collection of Odd Occurrences," a book she had loved as a child and wished had a complete ending, was his own work. Thrilled, she tried to share her discovery and her past connection to the book with him. However, Liang Yi reacted abruptly, feigning hunger and demanding food.
While Qiu Yan went to the kitchen, Liang Yi, in a fit of emotion, tore up the manuscript pages. Upon her return, she found him unconscious on the bed and the scattered, mutilated papers. Despite their damaged state, Qiu Yan treasured them, staying up late to meticulously piece them back together. Meanwhile, Qiu Min, fully aware she could not displace Qiu Yan in Qin Xuan's affections, crafted a manipulative farewell letter.
In it, she claimed she would hide away forever, believing herself to be his disgrace, yet cherishing the memory of their night together as the "best night of her life." She reiterated her promise not to interfere between him and Qiu Yan, stating it was no longer appropriate for her to stay now that Qiu Yan was alive. She hoped Qin Xuan would soon forget her to avoid hating her.
Reading the letter, Qin Xuan was overcome with remorse, wanting to find her. However, his attendant advised against it, explaining that without any clues and with Qiu Min actively hiding, it would be like searching for a needle in a haystack. Qin Xuan despaired, lamenting his failure to both Qiu Yan and Qiu Min, acknowledging Liang Yi's prior assessment that he was "not a man." Qiu Min, having orchestrated her dramatic departure, returned to Guangji Hall.
Her mother, Madam Liu, had been worried. Madam Liu immediately began scolding Qiu Min for her previous actions, particularly for causing Qiu Yan to risk her safety searching for her. Madam Liu contrasted Qiu Yan's success in becoming a concubine at the marquis's residence with Qiu Min's "shameful" return. Qiu Min apologized and offered to immediately begin working. Qiu Yan's mother, addressing Madam Liu as "First Sister-in-law," suggested helping Qiu Min with the chores.
Madam Liu quickly dismissed the idea, advising against being kind to Qiu Min, as there was nothing to gain from it, unlike Qiu Yan, who could look after them from the Marquis's residence. Qiu Yan and Madam Jin enjoyed a pleasant afternoon, with Madam Jin patiently teaching Qiu Yan to fly a soft-winged paper kite. Qiu Yan, delighted by the experience, expressed her desire to learn how to make hard-winged and long-string kites.
During their time together, Qiu Yan brought up Liang Yi's "Collection of Odd Occurrences," mentioning her childhood fondness for it and her disappointment at its unfinished state. Madam Jin confirmed that Liang Yi was indeed the author, but explained that his character had drastically changed after his father's death six years prior.
She recounted how Duke Lu, in an act of calculated malice during a hunt with His Majesty, pretended to accidentally shoot the old marquis's steed, leading to the marquis's death from severe blood loss and fever. Following this tragedy, Liang Yi vowed vengeance, putting away all his beloved possessions, including his writings. Madam Jin noted that Liang Yi had indeed achieved his revenge, as Duke Lu was eventually exiled and died.
She revealed that the late marquis had left a letter for Liang Yi, specifically instructing him not to seek revenge, and expressed her sadness that Liang Yi stubbornly kept his feelings to himself, admitting her failure as a mother. Qiu Yan reassured Madam Jin of Liang Yi's deep respect for her. Madam Jin confided that she only began to see a flicker of humanity in Liang Yi when he decided to take Qiu Yan as his concubine.
She confessed her initial approval was due to her desire for him to marry and continue the family line, but now she understood why he valued Qiu Yan so deeply. She then asked Qiu Yan if she would always remain by Liang Yi's side, and Qiu Yan readily affirmed that she would. That same night, Liang Yi completed the memorial to His Majesty.
The memorial eloquently detailed his recent capture of bandits from Northern Liang and highlighted the full assistance and significant contribution of Gao Yang and his clan during the operation. Liang Yi implored His Majesty to consider Gao Yang's loyalty and status as a descendant of the Grand Princess's clan, requesting that he be allowed to redeem himself and have his family's name and status restored as a testament to His Majesty's benevolence.
Following this, Liang Yi instructed a skilled craftsman to create the illusion of an ascending immortal within the Night-luminescent Pearl as he had envisioned. He then personally handed the finished pearl to General He, requesting him to present it to His Majesty. General He praised Liang Yi's painstaking efforts for the Qiu family.
Liang Yi explained that having sought out the Qiu family himself, he could not abandon them now that they faced adversity, as it would be perceived as cold-blooded and would lose the support of others. General He acknowledged this, drawing a parallel to how Liang Yi had previously approached him to successfully implement anti-corruption measures within the military, which involved removing incapable noble sons and replacing them with capable individuals, thereby boosting morale.
General He conceded that he was effectively "tied to Liang Yi's boat" in these endeavors. Later, Madam Jin arranged an opera performance and invited Liang Yi to watch it with her. He initially hesitated due to official duties, but she insisted, reminding him how long it had been since they last enjoyed a play together. The performance depicted a character named Murong Yuyan, a prefect from Liang Yi's "Collection of Odd Occurrences," judging a corrupt official.
Afterward, Liang Yi remarked that Qiu Yan's self-choreographed play was more interesting than others. Qiu Yan, pleased, then asked him how her performance was, to which he gave a modest "all right." She eagerly asked him to include her pen name when the "Collection of Odd Occurrences" was reprinted, expressing her excitement at choosing a memorable name. She then pressed him for his honest opinion of the book, having read many similar works.
Qiu Yan praised the book, stating it was unlike others, as it subtly portrayed Murong Yuyan's ambitions and ideals, revealing a "burning fire" in the author's heart. Liang Yi, however, confessed that he was not as noble as she perceived, nor as virtuous as his written characters. He admitted that his actions were always driven by purpose, such as approaching the He family for military and political reforms, and initially seeking to marry Qiu Min for her father's support.
He apologized, acknowledging that his ambitions had inadvertently brought trouble to her father and the entire Qiu family. Qiu Yan dismissed his self-reproach, attributing his harsh self-criticism to momentary anger and calling it overly opinionated. She reminded him that even the wisest individuals make mistakes, and that she herself had nowhere to vent her own anger at the time.
Liang Yi confided that in his six years at the Firewood Office, he had not had a single peaceful night's sleep, constantly questioning the righteousness of his actions. Qiu Yan assured him that, regarding the Qiu family's predicament, her father had not been coerced, so he had no reason to feel guilt or self-blame. She reminded him of his own words: "What do the sun and moon care about a few floating clouds?
What are a few setbacks and hardships when you achieve great things?" She concluded by telling him that they were all ordinary people, incapable of perfection, but could strive to do their best and live without regrets. Qiu Yan then repeated her question about her performance, and Liang Yi responded with a genuine, "It was very good." General He personally entered the palace to present the pearl to His Majesty.
He explained that his eldest son, while patrolling the northern borders, had chanced upon this extraordinary Night-luminescent Pearl. General He described it as a rare find, even more remarkable for the faintly discernible image of a flying deity and naturally formed cloud patterns within it. The Grand Preceptor then elaborated on its significance, linking the pearl to the "Dengxian Pearl" mentioned in the Hongzhen Sutra.
He explained that the immortal Hongzhen, after comprehending the truths of existence during his pilgrimage, was sensed by the Empyrean Fairy and ascended to heaven. Before his ascension, he condensed his years of cultivation into this immortal pearl, leaving it in the mortal realm.
The Grand Preceptor further stated that while the sutra did not describe the pearl's appearance, it did mention that when a fated person obtained it, the Empyrean Fairy would sense it and reincarnate as the purest virgin in the mortal realm to cleanse the pearl of mundane impurities. Daily worship of the consecrated pearl would grant longevity.
Liang Yi, in an internal monologue, confirmed his plan: he had Song Jin find a skilled craftsman to create the illusion of an ascending immortal within the pearl, and General He's eldest son, being stationed at the northern border, presenting it would seem logical. He was confident that His Majesty, who devoutly studied the Hongzhen Sutra, would connect the pearl to the Dengxian Pearl, thus initiating a search for the reincarnated Empyrean Fairy.
The Grand Preceptor then conversed with a palace eunuch, acknowledging that the Hongzhen Sect was inherently mystical, but noting that those in power perpetually craved eternal life. He implied that he and the Hongzhen Sect appealed to His Majesty's desire for longevity, and despite the eunuch's implied skepticism, he had no reason to disbelieve the auspicious sign given His Majesty's advanced age and illnesses, anticipating it would be a great boon for the Hongzhen Sect.
His Majesty, greatly pleased, hailed it as joyous news, believing his years of sincerity had finally moved Immortal Hongzhen. The Grand Preceptor confirmed that the Dengxian Pearl should appear alongside the reincarnated Empyrean Fairy, whose consecration would ensure His Majesty's health and longevity. When His Majesty inquired about the Empyrean Fairy's whereabouts, the Grand Preceptor described her: the purest virgin, untainted, associated with water, dressed in white, and appearing near water.
He then presented a fortune-telling paper, indicating the exact location where the Empyrean Fairy would appear. His Majesty immediately summoned Imperial Commander Yan, entrusting him with the crucial task of finding this person. The Grand Preceptor stressed the immense importance and secrecy of the matter, instructing Imperial Commander Yan to involve only his most trusted subordinates and reveal nothing to others. Imperial Commander Yan dutifully accepted the task. His Majesty, eager for her arrival, asked when she would be found.
The Grand Preceptor advised him to continue his cultivation, assuring him that sincerity would lead the Empyrean Fairy to sense his presence. After the Grand Preceptor departed to continue his concoctions, he privately discussed with a palace eunuch the possibility of His Majesty failing to find the Empyrean Fairy, remarking that they would simply attribute it to His Majesty's lack of sincerity and offer words of comfort.
Qiu Yan, understanding Liang Yi's strategic plan, agreed that placing the "Empyrean Fairy" at the Grand Preceptor's predicted location would secure His Majesty's trust. The immediate challenge was to ascertain the specifics of Imperial Commander Yan's movements. Liang Yi assigned Shi Xiaoxiao the task of approaching Imperial Commander Yan to extract information about his future operations. He promised to redeem her from the Royal Academy after the mission, allowing her to find a suitable partner and settle down.
Shi Xiaoxiao, who harbored feelings for Liang Yi, questioned if her services were no longer needed. Liang Yi explained that the Firewood Office was thriving, and she deserved a peaceful life after years of hard work. Shi Xiaoxiao, however, called him a liar, pointing out that Yuan Lang's Main Administrative Office was currently targeting him, making it a dangerous time for her to leave, especially as she was the Firewood Office's best informant.
She then implied that Liang Yi's desire to redeem her was related to his affection for Qiu Yan. Liang Yi stated that regardless of her willingness to take the assignment, he would ensure her redemption. Shi Xiaoxiao, however, agreed to complete the task but adamantly refused redemption, declaring that the Royal Academy had become her home over the past three years. She then left to fetch refreshments for Liang Yi.
Shi Xiaoxiao infiltrated the military camp, skillfully serving Imperial Commander Yan at a gathering. Imperial Commander Yan, emboldened by drink and in high spirits, confided in Shi Xiaoxiao that he had received an unprecedented and crucial mission, promising a great reward upon its completion. Though bound by military discipline from revealing the person he was to find, he hinted at the details when pressed by Shi Xiaoxiao.
Shortly after, Liang Yi received a cryptic note from Shi Xiaoxiao containing only a list of items: "Luggage, one straw raincoat, one pair of wooden clogs to wade." Song Jin noted the lack of specific directions. Liang Yi, understanding that Imperial Commander Yan was too trusted to explicitly divulge classified information, deduced that Shi Xiaoxiao had conveyed all she could by listing the items prepared for his journey.
Liang Yi and Qiu Yan then analyzed the list, connecting it to the Hongzhen Sutra's mention of the Empyrean Fairy appearing by water. They reasoned that a raincoat, while unusual during a summer drought, would be needed for the unique topography of Huilong Mountain in the west, which frequently experienced sudden rain showers. Song Jin confirmed the presence of the Jinxian Spring in that area, though it spanned tens of miles.
The mention of wooden clogs suggested passing through shallow water, leading them to pinpoint the specific location as the upstream spring cave, where the water was shallow and required wading. Song Jin memorized the precise location. Liang Yi then took Song Jin to meet the Qiu women at Guangji Hall.
He had initially intended for Qiu Mei to portray the Empyrean Fairy, but during a rehearsal of her imperial greeting, Qiu Mei became visibly nervous and stuttered badly, making it clear to the other Qiu women that she was incapable of such a deception. As the women despaired, Qiu Min bravely volunteered, asserting that she had already memorized the lines from listening to Qiu Mei practice.
She argued that as a legitimate daughter, she had a duty to contribute to this crucial effort to save their father. However, Qiu Yan immediately refused, stating that Qiu Min's timid and soft-natured disposition made her unsuitable for facing His Majesty. Another woman commented that Qiu Min's delicate nature and frail health made her unsuitable for facing His Majesty.
The Qiu women then discussed the immense risks involved, emphasizing that deceiving His Majesty could lead to the execution of their entire family, a fate far worse than mere exile. They questioned whether they, as women, could succeed where even the family's men had failed, expressing their fear of death.
Ultimately, some advised Qiu Yan to simply remain safe at the Marquis's residence as the young madam and occasionally send money, suggesting that would be enough to show her concern for the family.
Episode 25 Recap
The atmosphere in Guangji Hall was heavy with despair, but Qiu Yan, steadfast in her resolve, publicly displayed Old Madam's jade thumb ring. The Qiu women recognized it instantly, understanding that the late Old Madam had entrusted it to Qiu Yan as a symbol of hope and a mandate to lead them through their hardship, envisioning a day when the Qiu family would rise again. Inspired by Qiu Yan's conviction, their spirits were rekindled.
Qiu Yan then expressed her confidence in Qiu Mei, believing her to be the most educated and elegant, perfectly suited for an imperial audience. Meanwhile, Yuan Lang harbored deep suspicions about Liang Yi's recent actions, particularly how Liang Yi had avenged his late father against Duke Lu years ago, only to now praise Duke Lu's son. He speculated that Liang Yi and his allies were orchestrating something grand.
Yuan Lang believed the He family's sudden offering of the Dengxian Pearl was a calculated move, propelling them to prominence. He theorized that if they had the pearl, they must also have an Empyrean Fairy prepared to legitimize it. Knowing that Imperial Commander Yan was set to search for this fairy, Yuan Lang ordered his subordinates to apprehend Qingdai and Xiuyu, two former servants of the Qiu family, to "erase the problem" and foil Liang Yi's presumed plan.
As preparations for the imperial audience commenced, Qiu Mei diligently rehearsed her role as the Empyrean Fairy. Qiu Min, however, harbored her own agenda. She offered Qiu Mei a cup of tea, subtly laced with a substance that caused Qiu Mei to suffer severe stomach pains just as they were nearing Jinxian Spring, the designated meeting point. Qiu Mei collapsed, distraught and unable to proceed, lamenting that she was once again a burden to the family.
With time pressing, Qiu Min quickly volunteered to take her sister's place, asserting that there was no time to find another substitute. She urged Song Jin to take Qiu Mei back while she would follow the map to the spring. Song Jin, understanding the urgency, agreed. Upon learning of the sudden change, Liang Yi expressed concern about Qiu Min's suitability for the role, given the requirement of a virgin fairy.
Qiu Min bravely faced the Emperor, identifying herself as Qiu Yi's daughter, which initially shocked both His Majesty and Imperial Commander Yan, who believed all Qiu women had perished. Undeterred, Qiu Min spun a compelling tale of surviving a boat disaster and being divinely chosen to consecrate an auspicious item for the Emperor's longevity, presenting herself as the true Empyrean Fairy. Overjoyed by this divine blessing, the Emperor declared a grand amnesty, pardoning all criminals except traitors and murderers.
Liang Yi, elated by the news of the general amnesty, rushed back to his residence to share it with Qiu Yan, only to find her gone. He discovered a letter from Yuan Lang and realized the perilous situation Qiu Yan was in. He immediately ordered his men to locate a maid he suspected was Yuan Lang's informant within his own household, intending to force her to reveal Yuan Lang's hideout.
Meanwhile, Qiu Yan, following Yuan Lang's instructions from the letter, was led to a remote location outside the capital, where Yuan Lang had also brought Qingdai and Xiuyu. Qiu Yan bravely confronted Yuan Lang, demanding the release of the two innocent maids. Yuan Lang, acknowledging her sense of loyalty, released Qingdai and Xiuyu. As Qiu Yan then defiantly maintained her new identity as Su Yiwan, Yuan Lang, frustrated by her unyielding spirit, ordered his men to begin torturing her.
He tried to coerce her with promises of protecting Liang Yi and the Qiu family, but Qiu Yan merely mocked him, deriding him as a pathetic schemer who, despite three years of plotting, still could not outwit Liang Yi and resorted to bullying a defenseless woman. Enraged, Yuan Lang ordered a subordinate to prepare a dagger designed to permanently sever her tendons. Just as the blade was poised, Liang Yi burst in with his men, subduing Yuan Lang.
Seeing Qiu Yan's injuries, Liang Yi was overcome with a murderous rage, but Song Jin intervened, reminding him that killing a government official would invalidate Qiu Yan's ordeal. Liang Yi, restraining himself, delivered a powerful punch to Yuan Lang and then tenderly carried the injured Qiu Yan away. A physician assured Liang Yi that Qiu Yan's injuries were superficial. As Liang Yi gently tended to her hands, he sternly reprimanded her for her reckless bravery, emphasizing his worry.
He then shared the good news: Qiu Min had successfully convinced the Emperor, leading to the pardon of the Qiu family. Qiu Yan, relieved, then confessed her contingency plan: she had taken a poisonous pill from Liang Yi's pouch, intending to end her life if she could not endure Yuan Lang's torture. Liang Yi was furious, berating her for her disregard for her own life.
Though he stormed out, seemingly in anger, he soon instructed Song Jin to fetch the imperial Cotton Rose Jinchuang Solvent for Qiu Yan. Later, he returned to find Qiu Yan asleep, gently covered her with a blanket, and gazed at her injured hand and peaceful face, wishing for time to stop. He mused that he simply wanted her to be indebted to him, the more the better. Following Qiu Min's imperial audience, the Qiu Residence was finally unsealed.
Liang Yi accompanied Qiu Yan as she witnessed the joyous return of the Qiu women. Soon after, Qin Xuan arrived with supplies, bringing Qingdai and Xiuyu with him, whom he had redeemed at Liang Yi's request. Qin Xuan was visibly surprised upon seeing Qiu Yan. Later, in a bamboo forest, Qiu Min eagerly sought Qiu Yan's approval for her actions.
Qiu Yan acknowledged Qiu Min's success in helping the family but then revealed she knew Qiu Min had deliberately poisoned Qiu Mei to take her place, pointing to the suspicious timing and Qiu Min's eagerness to accompany her. Qiu Min admitted her deceit, explaining her desire to prove herself and show that Qiu Yan was not the only one capable of saving the family, hoping that as the Empyrean Fairy, she could honorably marry Qin Xuan.
Qin Xuan, still captivated by Qiu Yan, affirmed his intention to wait for her forgiveness. Qiu Yan warned him against pursuing both sisters, alluding to the tragic tale of Emperor Shun, and stated that she did not wish to know about his future choices. Qiu Min, sensing her sister's continued disapproval, sadly remarked that Qiu Yan had not truly forgiven her. Qin Xuan attempted to speak further with Qiu Yan, but she walked away.
Song Jin, intervening, advised Qin Xuan that he should maintain distance from "Madam Su," reinforcing that Liang Yi's assistance to the Qiu family was out of his regard for Qiu Yan, and she was now under his care. Qiu Min then pressed Qin Xuan about disclosing their relationship to his parents, but Qin Xuan offered a vague reply.
That evening, the Qiu women gathered for a celebratory dinner in their unsealed home, feeling as though their hardships were a distant dream. They showered praise upon Qiu Yan, crediting her entirely for their newfound freedom and proposing an annual celebration in her honor. While one of the aunts proudly referred to Qiu Yan as the Marquis Weiyuan's wife, another woman quickly corrected her, pointing out that Qiu Yan was merely a concubine, sparking a brief argument.
Though one woman attempted to acknowledge Qiu Min's significant contributions, the general sentiment remained focused on Qiu Yan. Feeling overlooked and dejected, Qiu Min quietly excused herself from the dinner, leaving the women to continue their celebration, albeit with a dismissive comment about her "unique" character. The next day, Liang Yi took Qiu Yan for a leisurely stroll. He discreetly informed her that Yuan Lang's operatives were trailing them, giving her an opportunity to demonstrate her new status.
Qiu Yan seized the chance, playfully announcing her intention to make Liang Yi pay for her "entourage" and leading him on a shopping spree. At a textile shop, she ostentatiously purchased an extravagant amount of fabric, openly flaunting their wealth for the benefit of their unseen observers. Liang Yi, though playfully complaining about his salary, indulged her every whim.
Qiu Yan then pointedly reminded Liang Yi that Yuan Lang's people were watching, prompting Liang Yi to loudly declare his intention to buy everything in the shop. Qiu Yan, thoroughly enjoying the charade, jested that she should thank Yuan Lang for allowing her to live like a rich wife for a day, musing aloud about whether their next stop should be the jewelry street or a rouge boutique.
Episode 26 Recap
Mr. Lu, a reclusive author, was forcibly brought by the Firewood Office to meet Qiu Yan, much to his displeasure. Despite his initial refusal to see anyone, even the Emperor, Qiu Yan's genuine admiration and deep understanding of his works quickly won him over. She praised his less popular piece, "The Case of Zhao," highlighting its sharp social commentary and insightful critique, which resonated deeply with him.
Impressed, Mr. Lu not only gifted her his latest manuscript for feedback but also encouraged her to write her own stories, recognizing her keen logic and experience in solving cases. Meanwhile, Official Yuan approached Shi Xiaoxiao, subtly revealing that Liang Yi had been lavishly spoiling his new concubine, Su Yiwan, during a recent shopping trip, painting a picture of intense affection.
Yuan Lang insinuated that Shi Xiaoxiao, as a courtesan, could never marry a Marquis, but suggested he could arrange for Liang Yi to lose his title and become a commoner, thus making him attainable. He even offered to fake a meritorious deed for Shi Xiaoxiao to gain an audience with the Emperor and request a marriage to Liang Yi, ensuring Liang Yi would be forced to marry her.
Shi Xiaoxiao, however, expressed a different ambition: she desired to utterly defeat Liang Yi, making him lose everything and live a mediocre life, rather than seeing him dead. Official Yuan noted her hesitation. Later that evening, back at the residence, Liang Yi observed Qiu Yan engrossed in Mr. Lu's new book. She shared Mr. Lu's encouragement to write her own detective stories, though she doubted her ability to do so, fearing a lack of inspiration.
Liang Yi, with a hint of playful sarcasm, reminded her of her previous success in continuing his own story, even though he had mockingly called it "doing a terrible job." Qiu Yan then instructed Song Jin, a servant, to deliver the numerous items she had purchased that day to Madam Jin, revealing that her extravagant shopping spree was actually a thoughtful gesture to gift Madam Jin items she liked.
At the imperial palace, Eunuch Liu, while reviewing memorials for the aging Emperor, discovered a submission from Wang Shun accusing Qiu Min of not being a virgin. He discreetly held the document. The following morning, after the imperial court, Eunuch Liu discreetly summoned Liang Yi, showing him the incendiary memorial. He cautioned Liang Yi that the Emperor, still recovering from the stress of the "Dengxian Pearl" incident, could not endure another emotional shock.
Eunuch Liu, loyal to the Emperor, gave Liang Yi three days to resolve the matter, stating he could only withhold the memorial for that period. Liang Yi consulted with Qiu Yan, explaining that Wang Shun, though usually a liar, had stumbled upon a critical weakness in their plan. He warned that if the Emperor discovered Qiu Min's lost maidenhood, her identity as the Empyrean Fairy would crumble, leading to severe consequences, potentially death, for the entire Qiu family.
Liang Yi proposed sending everyone, including the Qiu men returning to the capital, far away for their safety. Qiu Yan, however, steadfastly refused to leave, asserting her concern for Liang Yi as their family's benefactor. She criticized his stubbornness for trying to bear the burden alone and suggested they, along with Qiu Min, brainstorm a solution together, drawing on their past successes in overcoming predicaments.
Liang Yi agreed to their strategy, arranging a discreet meeting with Qiu Min outside the Marquis's residence to avoid attracting attention. Qiu Min, upon their arrival, expressed her deep remorse, admitting she had inadvertently caused trouble by attempting to help, unaware of the strict requirements for the Empyrean Fairy. Qiu Yan, however, directly placed the blame on Qiu Min for the predicament. It was then that Qin Xuan revealed he had a solution.
Qiu Yan, reluctant to involve him, immediately turned to leave, but Qin Xuan pleaded to be allowed to help. Qiu Min interjected, pointing out that since she had lost her virginity to Qin Xuan, he was inextricably linked to the situation. She also passionately declared her deep affection for Qin Xuan, stating that true lovers should face adversity together. Liang Yi stopped Qiu Yan from leaving, encouraging her to hear Qin Xuan's plan.
It was revealed that Liang Yi had previously orchestrated this entire scenario with Qin Xuan. During their prior conversation, Qin Xuan had initially hesitated to accept Liang Yi's plan, understanding that it would permanently end any possibility of a future with Qiu Yan. Liang Yi, however, asserted that Qin Xuan's night with Qiu Min had already eliminated any such possibility.
Liang Yi then explicitly instructed Qin Xuan to present the plan as his own, ensuring Qiu Yan would not suspect Liang Yi's involvement. Qiu Min, understanding that Liang Yi's complex efforts were solely for Qiu Yan's sake, pledged her full cooperation. After Qin Xuan presented the detailed plan, Liang Yi feigned skepticism, initially calling the plan "preposterous" and warning of potential blunders.
Qin Xuan, in turn, subtly accused Liang Yi of orchestrating the plan to separate him from Qiu Yan, acknowledging that he couldn't stand by and watch Qiu Yan suffer. Despite Liang Yi's feigned initial doubts, everyone, including Qiu Min, expressed their approval. Qiu Yan, though initially hesitant, agreed for the sake of her family and Liang Yi, realizing that many lives were at stake.
As Qiu Yan prepared to depart, Qin Xuan quickly approached her, offering an ebony hairpin he had carried as a keepsake since retrieving it from Fengjing Prefecture, now wishing to return it to her. Qiu Yan refused, stating that as Su Yiwan, she could not keep an item belonging to Qiu Yan. Observing the exchange, Liang Yi stepped in and took the hairpin from Qin Xuan, stating he would keep it for her.
That night, Liang Yi presented Qiu Yan with a specialized, indestructible box from the Firewood Office. He instructed her to place the hairpin inside and set a unique code, emphasizing that no one else would be able to open it. Qiu Yan playfully revealed her mother's birthday as the code, asking Liang Yi to remember it in case she forgot. She then confronted him, having shrewdly deduced that Qin Xuan's "plan" was, in fact, his own elaborate scheme.
Liang Yi initially deflected, but Qiu Yan explained that she knew he chose Qin Xuan to present it so she wouldn't feel conflicted, as if he had proposed it directly, she would have faced a difficult choice regardless of her decision. She further noted his feigned initial acceptance during Qin Xuan's presentation. Qiu Yan then expressed a profound sense of debt to Qin Xuan, feeling it was a burden she alone had to carry.
Later, Liang Yi approached Madam Jin, requesting her assistance in asking Noble Consort Guo to arrange his marriage to Qiu Min. Madam Jin initially chided him, urging him to focus on bringing her a grandchild with Su Yiwan. Liang Yi firmly reiterated his earnest desire to "remarry Miss Qiu Min."
Noble Consort Guo, informed of Liang Yi's surprising request to marry Qiu Min after his previous public entanglement with Qiu Yan and subsequent marriage to Su Yiwan, visited his residence to inquire. She demanded a truthful explanation for his past erratic behavior, including his close association with Qiu Yan when she was in the Royal Academy and his subsequent marriage to a performer resembling her.
Liang Yi confessed that while he initially intended to marry Qiu Min, he was later undeniably drawn to Qiu Yan, finding both sisters captivating in their distinct ways—Qiu Min's quiet elegance and Qiu Yan's bold assertiveness. He explained that after Qiu Yan's passing, he took Su Yiwan as his concubine. However, upon learning that Qiu Min was still alive, he felt compelled to provide her with a complete home and asked for the Noble Consort's blessing.
Noble Consort Guo initially hesitated, but Liang Yi appealed to her compassion, stating his remorse for Qiu Min's past hardships and his desire to make amends. Convinced, Noble Consort Guo agreed, remarking that as Qiu Min was the Empyrean Fairy, her marriage should be handled unconventionally, and that a reconciliation could become a beautiful tale. Before departing, Noble Consort Guo expressed a desire to meet the rumored Su Yiwan, wanting to see if she truly resembled Qiu Yan.
Liang Yi claimed Su Yiwan was ill and confined to bed. However, Qiu Yan, acting as Su Yiwan, erupted into a theatrical tantrum. She smashed objects and loudly accused Liang Yi of abandoning her after promising eternal love, lamenting her inevitable suffering once a legal wife entered the household. She adamantly refused to meet Noble Consort Guo, accusing her of siding with Liang Yi. When Noble Consort Guo entered the room, Madam Jin tried to explain Qiu Yan's "jealousy."
Noble Consort Guo sternly rebuked Liang Yi for spoiling his concubine into a "belligerent wife." She then admonished Qiu Yan for her behavior, reminding her of her "lowly concubine" status and warning that Qiu Min, as the future legal wife, would be her master, and any disrespect would not be tolerated, even by Liang Yi. Following this, Noble Consort Guo summoned Qiu Min.
Qiu Min, composed and respectful, explained that while she initially harbored resentment for Liang Yi's annulment, she now understood it was his duty. She gracefully accepted the marriage proposal but requested a three-year waiting period to observe her mourning duties. Impressed by her adherence to tradition, Noble Consort Guo offered to adopt Qiu Min as her foster daughter, promising to marry her off with appropriate pomp and ceremony, a gesture for which the Qiu family expressed profuse gratitude.
As Noble Consort Guo prepared to leave, Qiu Yan, still playing the part of Su Yiwan, dramatically rushed out. She claimed to have witnessed Qiu Min and her maid disembark from their carriage and enter a local inn. She further alleged that Qiu Min's maid, Qingdai, then led a gentleman upstairs before standing guard outside the room. Qiu Yan declared she suspected a secret liaison and hurried back to inform everyone.
Despite Liang Yi's attempts to dissuade her, Noble Consort Guo, asserting her duty to verify her foster daughter's character, insisted on investigating herself. At the inn, Qingdai confirmed that "Third Young Lady Qiu" had instructed her to bring "Mr. Qin from the Duke Ying Residence" to the inn and wait by the stairs. Inside, Noble Consort Guo discovered a disheveled Qiu Min and Qin Xuan, and spotting blood on the bed, she immediately understood the truth.
Qiu Min, upon being confronted, immediately fell to her knees, tearfully confessing her long-standing love for Qin Xuan and her unwavering reluctance to marry Liang Yi. She revealed that she had secretly planned to take her own life after the marriage ceremony, simply wanting Qin Xuan to know her true feelings before she died. Noble Consort Guo, disgusted, chastised her for failing to uphold the decorum expected of an Empyrean Fairy.
Suddenly, Liang Yi burst in, confronting Qin Xuan with accusations of betrayal. A chaotic brawl ensued between Liang Yi and Qin Xuan, while Qiu Min and Qiu Yan (still as Su Yiwan) also engaged in a verbal and physical altercation. Qiu Yan, playing her part, declared her lifelong disdain for her sister and accused Liang Yi of being a "rascal" who took advantage of Qiu Yan in her distress. Qiu Min retaliated by calling Qiu Yan "useless."
The Noble Consort finally halted the pandemonium, cutting through the drama. She canceled the marriage between Liang Yi and Qiu Min and revoked her offer to adopt Qiu Min. She then ordered Liang Yi to take his concubine home, and Qin Xuan to escort Qiu Min back to the Qiu residence, strictly forbidding any of them from ever mentioning or pursuing the matter again.
Later, back at the residence, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan shared a private moment, lightheartedly confirming the success of their meticulously orchestrated ruse, despite their minor injuries from the staged performance.
Episode 27 Recap
Three days passed, and a eunuch presented memorials to the Emperor. Initially, the eunuch believed Liang Yi had handled matters properly, but the Emperor unexpectedly learned that the Empyrean Fairy was no longer a virgin. Enraged, he immediately summoned Qiu Min to the palace. Upon Qiu Min's arrival, she immediately denied Wang Shun of the Royal Academy's accusations as slander. Yuan Lang then proposed a physical examination to confirm her chastity.
The Emperor agreed and instructed palace staff to take her to a granny. However, Qiu Min stopped them, admitting she was indeed no longer a virgin. Qin Xuan then intervened, clarifying that Qiu Min was indeed still a virgin when she consecrated the Dengxian Pearl, thus invalidating Wang Shun's false accusations. He further explained that Qiu Min had only given herself to him yesterday, confirming their mutual affection.
Noble Consort Guo then supported their account, stating she had personally overheard their conversation and seen the bloodstain from the previous night, leaving no doubt. A senior official then explained that the Empyrean Fairy's mission was solely to consecrate the Dengxian Pearl while still a virgin, which would not affect its efficacy. After completing this task, the Empyrean Fairy's vessel, though retaining spiritual wisdom, would also experience ordinary human desires.
He further clarified that the Empyrean Fairy was inherently a deity of strong emotions, and therefore Qiu Min's actions, though unconventional, were understandable as an expression of the Empyrean Fairy's true nature. Realizing his faulty investigation and rash judgment, Yuan Lang apologized and requested punishment. The Emperor, acknowledging Yuan Lang's good intentions but criticizing his hasty nature, penalized him with a year's salary deduction and prohibited his promotion for one year, advising him to reflect and temper his character.
Seizing this opportunity, Noble Consort Guo, who admitted she had delayed informing the Emperor about the affair to find a chance to plead for the young couple, boldly proposed an imperial marriage for Qin Xuan and Qiu Min. The Emperor granted her request. Back at his residence, Qin Xuan's father was furious that such a significant matter had been kept from him.
Qin Xuan, however, refused to open his door, instructing his attendant to tell his father not to inquire about the imperial marriage and that he wished to be stubborn this once. Despite his inner turmoil, Qin Xuan found some solace, believing he had finally helped Qiu Yan with this sacrifice. Meanwhile, Qiu Yan, under her alias Su Yiwan, visited the Qiu residence to congratulate Qiu Min on her imperial marriage.
Qiu Yan pressed Qiu Min about Wang Shun's claims regarding her chastity. Qiu Min initially dismissed the question, asking why Qiu Yan cared now that the matter was settled, but then unleashed years of pent-up resentment. She accused Qiu Yan of always prioritizing her own future and the Qiu family's interests, neglecting Qiu Min's struggles, even recounting how Qiu Yan had turned her away as a child when she sought comfort.
Qiu Min expressed deep jealousy over Qiu Yan always gaining the affection of their mother and Qin Xuan, while she suffered profound humiliation. She then shockingly revealed how she secured Qin Xuan: she confessed to lying to him about Qiu Yan's death and drugging his wine with an aphrodisiac from the Royal Academy, which she had secretly taken with her when she escaped.
She asserted that all her current gains were a direct result of Qiu Yan's supposed past "ruthlessness" and neglect. Unbeknownst to them, Qin Xuan had arrived at the Qiu residence to propose marriage and had wandered to the annex, where he overheard this damning confession. Distraught by Qiu Min's revelations, Qiu Yan stormed out and immediately confronted Wang Shun, furiously whipping him with a cane. Liang Yi soon arrived, addressing Qiu Yan as "Wan'er" and calming her down.
For the onlookers, he quickly fabricated a story, claiming Qiu Yan was merely jealous because Wang Shun had introduced a lady to him. Despite Wang Shun's godmother vehemently denying the introduction, Liang Yi ordered Song Jin to take Wang Shun to the Firewood Office. Later, Liang Yi gently scolded Qiu Yan for her impulsiveness, reminding her that the Royal Academy's guards were highly trained, and checked her for injuries while offering comfort.
Back at the Qiu residence, after their parents discussed the wedding arrangements, Qin Xuan requested a private conversation with Qiu Min. He immediately confronted her, revealing he had overheard her entire confession to Qiu Yan. He expressed profound disgust, realizing he had been manipulated by the very person he had thought he had wronged.
He had previously believed he was responsible for taking advantage of Qiu Min and had felt guilty for failing both Qiu Yan and Qiu Min, but now he saw that Qiu Min, whom he'd always thought of as docile and innocent, had used such "underhanded tactics" to scheme against him. Qiu Min desperately tried to claim she was merely lying to spite Qiu Yan, but Qin Xuan refused to believe her, stating he was disgusted by her lies.
He declared that while he could not defy the Emperor's imperial marriage decree and would take a post in the Ministry of War, they would only be a "couple in name," and he would never touch her again. Following Qin Xuan's cold rejection, Qiu Min rushed to Qiu Yan's residence, begging her to intervene and explain to Qin Xuan, believing he would still listen to Qiu Yan.
Qiu Yan firmly told her that since Qin Xuan had heard the truth directly from Qiu Min, there was nothing to explain, and Qiu Min needed to take responsibility for her choices. Desperate, Qiu Min made an astounding offer: she would completely step aside from Qiu Yan and Qin Xuan's relationship, even offering to raise any child they might have together as her own.
Qiu Yan was furious at Qiu Min's "deplorable thoughts," reiterating that Qiu Min must face the consequences of her chosen path and could only win Qin Xuan's heart by herself. When Qiu Min then emotionally blackmailed Qiu Yan by invoking their deceased mother's last words and Qiu Yan's promise to care for her, Liang Yi stepped in, calling Qiu Yan aside and dismissing Qiu Min.
Meanwhile, Yuan Lang confronted Shi Xiaoxiao, accusing her of colluding with Liang Yi and luring him into a trap by leaking Wang Shun's information. Shi Xiaoxiao fiercely defended herself, pointing out that Yuan Lang himself had interrogated Wang Shun and should have discerned any lies. She also explained that Liang Yi had become distant and excluded her from many matters since taking Qiu Yan as his concubine. She then threatened to end their cooperation if he remained dissatisfied.
Yuan Lang, realizing his mistake, apologized for his hasty accusations and reaffirmed his promise to her before leaving. Not long after, Qiu Yan met Qin Xuan, who informed her he would be taking a post at the Ministry of War early next month. Qiu Yan advised him to look forward and move past their shared history, and to forgive Qiu Min.
However, Qin Xuan expressed that he could never forgive Qiu Min for what she did, asserting that her actions had separated them. Qiu Yan corrected him, explaining that even without Qiu Min, they would not have ended up together. She confessed that in her moments of desperation, she had mistaken his kindness and her desire to seize an opportunity for love.
She admitted that avenging her mother and vindicating the Qiu family had always been more important than any man or romantic relationship. Qiu Yan apologized for not being able to fully reciprocate his feelings, offering to repay her "debt" in a future life. As Liang Yi arrived, having openly admitted to eavesdropping on their conversation as an "occupational habit" of the Firewood Office, he asked Qiu Yan if she regretted her decision.
She firmly stated no, as she had no lingering feelings and should not give Qin Xuan false hope. Later, Qin Xuan, upon receiving his new official attire for the Ministry of War, symbolically instructed his attendant Beixue to store away his beloved storytelling scripts, signifying his commitment to a new beginning. Qiu Yan then departed with Liang Yi, formally severing ties with her past romantic entanglements.
Soon after, the Qiu family men returned to the capital, filling the Qiu residence with excited anticipation, as Qiu Yan was especially looking forward to seeing her father. However, Qiu Yi was conspicuously absent, and only a coffin arrived, carried by the returning family members. Qiu Yan, still maintaining her identity as Su Yiwan, watched, devastated, as her eldest brother announced that Qiu Yi, their second brother, had succumbed to a "heat illness" on the journey home.
The remaining Qiu men, including Qiu Rong, made solemn vows to their ancestors and family, pledging to study diligently, abandon vices like gambling and frequenting brothels, and restore the Qiu family's honor. Overcome with grief, Qiu Yan stood before the memorial tablets of her father and mother.
She poured out her heart, expressing deep regret for her past misunderstanding that her father had colluded with the Old Madam to poison her mother, a belief stemming from her mother's alleged affair with Master Zhenyan, which her father inferred from a jade pendant. She lamented her long-held belief that her father was rigid, pedantic, and overly concerned with reputation.
She tearfully recalled his last desperate words during the family's raid, urging her and Qiu Min to escape, realizing then that his first thought was always their safety. Qiu Yan tearfully wished she could tell him she was wrong, that she had misjudged him, and expressed sorrow that he would never see her accomplishments or know how proud she hoped he would be of her. As someone approached, Liang Yi gently led her away.
Episode 28 Recap
Qiu Min knelt, weeping openly before her father's memorial tablet. Madam Liu approached, her heart softening with pity. She acknowledged their past disagreements but reminded Qiu Min that with her mother and father gone, only Qiu Min, Rong'er, and she remained in the Second Chamber.
Madam Liu declared that for the sake of her late husband, she must care for Qiu Min, ensuring that after the mourning period, Qiu Min would have a grand wedding to Qin Xuan, which would ease her husband's mind. Feeling somewhat relieved after witnessing the scene, Qiu Yan left with Liang Yi. However, on their way home late that night, they were ambushed by Ping'er, who had been pardoned by His Majesty during a general amnesty.
Ping'er, consumed by thoughts of vengeance for her father, attacked them. Liang Yi shielded Qiu Yan and was struck by a poison arrow. In desperation, Qiu Yan told Ping'er that Liang Yi's handling of cases never implicated innocent family members and that her father's embezzlement of public funds was a grave crime punishable by law. She urged Ping'er to recall her past life of luxury and reconsider her father's actions.
Qiu Yan then implored Ping'er to let go of her hatred and embrace a new life, suggesting her fathers would want her to live happily and safely. Shocked by the revelation, Ping'er abandoned her attack and, before leaving, urged Qiu Yan to find a physician quickly for Liang Yi’s poisoned wound. As Liang Yi steadily lost consciousness, Qiu Yan grew increasingly desperate, crying out for him to wake up.
When she saw blood seeping from his shoulder, despair filled her, and she tried to move him, but he was too heavy. Refusing to give up, Qiu Yan found a cart and laboriously dragged Liang Yi back to his residence. A physician was called, who confirmed that Qiu Yan’s quick action of sucking out the venom had prevented the poison from spreading, and Liang Yi had survived the most dangerous phase. He merely required careful nursing to prevent infection.
Qiu Yan stayed by his side, never leaving him, holding his hand tightly. She confessed her deep-seated fears and love, admitting that she had once believed nothing in the world could scare her, but seeing Liang Yi hurt made her realize how much she feared losing him, fearing she would never hear his voice or see his familiar poker face again.
She pleaded with him not to leave her, confessing that her time in the Marquis Residence felt like a dream of a home, a dream she desperately wanted to last. Early the next morning, Liang Yi awoke, surprised to find Qiu Yan still by his side. He acknowledged hearing her heartfelt confession from the previous night.
Their bond rapidly deepened through this ordeal, and in a moment of tender emotion, they leaned in to kiss, only to be interrupted by Madam Jin's sudden appearance. For the following days, Qiu Yan meticulously looked after him, from his daily needs to his meals, tolerating his playful demands as a patient. Liang Yi, enjoying her attentive care, feigned lingering pain to keep her close. They grew inseparable, acting like a true couple.
Despite not being fully recovered, Liang Yi was eager to resume his activities, even practicing sword in the courtyard. Madam Jin, already fond of Qiu Yan, was delighted by the growing affection between her son and Qiu Yan. Recognizing that Liang Yi now had a family, she suggested he use his injury as an opportunity to request a transfer from his dangerous duties, hoping he would leave the perilous life behind.
However, Qiu Yan, now identifying as Su Yiwan, actively supported Liang Yi, understanding the importance of his work. She declared she would rather live in fear by his side than see him unhappy, confined to the mansion for her comfort. Deeply moved by her words, Liang Yi was grateful, and Madam Jin, seeing their resolve, conceded, allowing them to make their own decisions. Later, as Qiu Yan and Liang Yi walked and talked, Qiu Yan stumbled.
Liang Yi swiftly caught her with his right hand, accidentally revealing that his injury was fully healed. Qiu Yan was furious and for three days refused to speak to him, returning all his attempts at apology and gifts. With Qiu Yan’s birthday approaching, Madam Liu unexpectedly paid a visit to Liang Yi at the Main Administrative Office, bringing a pair of embroidered shoes she had personally made for Qiu Yan.
She requested Liang Yi to deliver them, explaining that she and Qiu Yan never got along and would likely quarrel if they met. Madam Liu then earnestly asked Liang Yi to tolerate Qiu Yan’s stubbornness and take good care of her. Recognizing the perfect opportunity to make amends for his deceit, Liang Yi, now aware of Qiu Yan's upcoming birthday, instructed Song Jin to help him plan a special celebration.
Song Jin shared details about Qiu Yan's favorite foods, dessert, and wine, urging Liang Yi to use the occasion to confess his true feelings. Song Jin delivered Liang Yi’s invitation for a private meeting, but Qiu Yan initially refused. Only when Song Jin lied that Liang Yi’s wound had relapsed did Qiu Yan rush to his study in concern. As she arrived at the door, Liang Yi playfully pulled her into a hug, presenting the embroidered shoes from Madam Liu.
He explained that Madam Liu had never celebrated Qiu Yan’s birthday before, but now that Qiu Yan was important to the Marquis Residence, she remembered. Liang Yi then presented Qiu Yan with his unfinished book, now completed with her ending. He declared it her work too, naming her "Devotee of Yanqi" as her pen name. Qiu Yan was touched, affirming her fondness for the name and acknowledging Mr. Lu’s approval of her writing, realizing her talent for detective storytelling.
Among all the gifts, the book moved Qiu Yan the most. Liang Yi then invited her to the Heming Building to watch a southern opera troupe perform that evening. Overcome with emotion, Qiu Yan broke down, revealing that it was the first time anyone had celebrated her birthday. She recounted how Madam Liu only celebrated Rong'er’s birthday and once called Qiu Yan a "burden" on her own birthday. This made her tell her mother later that she hated birthdays.
Liang Yi, listening to her story, gently promised to celebrate her birthday every year from now on. Later, as they sat on the rooftop enjoying the view, Qiu Yan revealed her true desire: to leave the Marquis Residence and travel the world to find stories and write her own novel. She explained that her first half of life was lived for others, but now, as Su Yiwan, she wanted to live happily for herself, unbound by anything.
Liang Yi, though deeply reluctant to see her go, vowed to fully support her dream, asking how long she planned to be away and when she would leave. Qiu Yan proposed an elaborate plan to fake a quarrel and divorce him in front of Madam Jin, claiming she had offended the noble consort by interfering with his engagement to Qiu Min, which would provide a plausible reason for her departure and buy her some time.
After the birthday celebration, Liang Yi’s mood plummeted. He sat alone by the door, overcome with sadness. Song Jin approached him, questioning why Liang Yi didn’t try to stop Qiu Yan, especially after expressing such strong feelings to Qin Xuan. Liang Yi confessed that he had mistakenly believed he knew Qiu Yan best and could give her everything. He had thought that after her family’s troubles were resolved, she would embrace a comfortable life with him.
However, he now understood that the freedom he could offer was limited to the confines of the manor, while her true desire was the vast world and boundless liberty. Knowing his own identity restricted him to the capital and his important work was unfinished, he recognized Qiu Yan’s decision as her way of saying farewell, understanding that he could not join her.
Song Jin, however, pressed him, suggesting that if Liang Yi truly loved her, he should follow her, reminding Liang Yi of his own past desire to wander and his father’s wish for him to stay out of court politics. Moved by Song Jin’s words and his own deep-seated desire, Liang Yi made a significant decision, instructing Song Jin to pack his belongings, declaring that starting the next day, he would move to the Main Administrative Office.
Episode 29 Recap
Liang Yi's servants observe his unusual anger, prompting one to note he "needs to vent" and won't feel better for months. Song Jin understands the reason: Qiu Yan is leaving the next day. He urges Liang Yi not to avoid her, pointing out that spending more time with her, despite the pain of parting, is better than regretting not seeing her. Song Jin even states he would "cuff her to my side" if his loved one were leaving.
Despite Song Jin's encouragement, Liang Yi rushed back to his residence, only to be informed that Qiu Yan had already left early in the morning without any companions, contrary to their agreement to leave tomorrow. Dejected, he searched for her, but finding no trace, he returned to his residence, only to discover Qiu Yan still there. Overjoyed, he embraces her, and Song Jin discreetly closes the door.
They spend a tender night together, during which Qiu Yan expresses her profound admiration for Liang Yi, stating she loves how he always knows what he wants and perseveres for his goals, even "despite being lambasted by everyone." She shares that growing up, no one taught her a woman's value beyond being a wife or mother, until Liang Yi took her to meet Mr. Lu, who said she had a gift for writing crime fiction.
This moment made her realize her life's true purpose was not to be defined by a man, but to be "Qiu Yan," her authentic self. She explains how her mother and maternal aunt had their names forgotten, only remembered as "Qiu's wife" on tombstones, and she doesn't want such a life. Liang Yi, she says, showed her a future where she isn't "someone else's accessory" but remembered by her chosen name through her stories.
Liang Yi reciprocates, recalling their first meeting six years prior when she was a "little girl" with bold ambitions to travel. He remembers telling her then about the need for independence, skills like reading, and managing money. Now, seeing she has achieved all that, he admits, "I can never keep you." He fully supports her decision, making her promise that if she ever feels "tired" or "misses home," she should let him know.
He promises to wait for her, anticipating the day he opens his door to find his "mischievous, sharp-witted, and cheeky Qiu Yan." Though Qiu Yan worries about him waiting "several years" for her uncertain return, Liang Yi asserts, "You don't get to decide." He vows to see her off the next day, insisting, "Before the sunset tomorrow, you're still my Su Yiwan."
Yuan Lang, having recently been outmaneuvered by Liang Yi, returns home to face his subordinate's remark that they are now "the laughing stocks in the Imperial Court." Yuan Lang remains defiant, recalling how he previously failed to "outwit Liang Yi" and had to "lay low for three years," asserting that this temporary loss means nothing as "no one knows who will get the last laugh."
Soon after, an assassin ambushes Yuan Lang, not to kill him, but to deliver a missive. The note states, "I can eliminate Liang Yi but I require your assistance, Official Yuan. If you are intent to help me, wait for my order." His subordinate expresses surprise that someone else in the Imperial Court is capable of making such a bold claim against Liang Yi.
Despite the mystery surrounding the sender's identity, the subordinate advises Yuan Lang that "whoever this person is, our enemy's enemy is our friend." The next morning, Qiu Yan wakes before Liang Yi. As he prepares to attend court, she notices a seam undone on his clothing. Teasingly, Liang Yi assumes her immersion in "novel reading" means she knows nothing of "needlework," but Qiu Yan confidently replies, "Don't you underestimate me, Lord Liang. It's just to sew it shut.
Nothing too challenging," asserting her ability to do "what women can do" despite her ambition to do "what men can do." Liang Yi then offers to "take a day off today" to spend more time with her. Qiu Yan playfully chides him, asking if she is a "seductress who leads her spouse to the wrong path" by making him forgo duty. Liang Yi promises to "hurry back here" after the morning meeting.
As he leaves, he gives her a key, stating, "I'll give you the key," and when she asks "What if I lose it?" , he replies, "Then you'll wear it forever," implying it's a symbolic token of their bond. While Liang Yi is at court, Qiu Yan prepares a meal in the kitchen.
Madam Jin joins her, offering to help, and then reveals she knows Qiu Yan's true identity, having recognized her from a play at the Heming Building, where she was with Qin Xuan. She recalls Qiu Yan's "daredevil" act of impersonating a maid in front of Noble Consort. Qiu Yan apologizes for her deception, but Madam Jin reassures her, acknowledging that Liang Yi's intention was to protect her, a "daughter of an incriminated minister."
Madam Jin states that despite the deception, the "feelings you two have for each other are not fake," recognizing Qiu Yan's genuine affection for her and Liang Yi. She gently reminds Qiu Yan of her previous promise not to leave Liang Yi, but then quotes, "The coo of a caged bird does not compare to the chirp of a forest fowl. You belong to the sky.
You shouldn't be chained to a house till your inexorable end," signaling her full support for Qiu Yan's aspirations. She firmly tells Qiu Yan, "Wherever you go, as long as I still live, the Liang Residence will always welcome you." Madam Jin then teaches Qiu Yan how to cook Liang Yi's favorite dish, bamboo shoot soup with cured pork. Liang Yi returns home with unusual haste, eager to spend more time with Qiu Yan and taste the meal she prepared.
Qiu Yan proudly presents a bowl of bamboo shoot soup, noting Madam Jin taught her. Liang Yi praises it as "delicious" and "very umami," even after Qiu Yan admits she "must have used salt instead of sugar for the final seasoning," making it "so salty." He insists on drinking it, claiming, "I like it salty.
That way, I won't forget about your cooking," despite Qiu Yan's attempts to stop him, calling him "dumb" for continuing to drink the "too briny" soup. He then adds, "If I don't, I won't be able to have it anymore." Later, in the garden, Qiu Yan points out a unique bougainvillea, a tribute from a foreign nation, that thrives in the sun unlike other plants.
Liang Yi teases her, saying he thought she "only know the torture tools in the Firewood Office by heart." He then explains that his father used to tend these flowers, but he hasn't had the time since taking over the Firewood Office. Liang Yi reassures her that the garden will be maintained just as she first saw it.
As he prunes a branch, he explains that "pruning new branches encourages the plant to grow" and "is trading a short term pain for a long term gain," a metaphor for their parting. Liang Yi, masking his sorrow to ease Qiu Yan's departure, takes her to the bustling Sifang Street market, where they appear to be a loving couple. As evening descends, they head towards the city gate. Liang Yi returns her folding fan.
Qiu Yan reflects on the fan's inscription: "Alas, the norm binds us so. I long to spread my wing and travel far," noting it expresses Qu Yuan's lamentation for restricted freedom and longing to "fly away like a bird." She admits she was once envious of Liang Yi, believing he lived such a life. Liang Yi responds, "And now, it's my turn to be envious," before telling her, "Go.
The wagon will bring you wherever you want to go," and affirming, "I will give you anything you want," acknowledging her desire for freedom. Qingdai then appears, revealing she "asked Lord Liang to persuade First Madam to release me" so she could accompany Qiu Yan, citing the dangers of the world and the "strength in numbers." As Qiu Yan and Qingdai depart in the carriage, Liang Yi watches them go.
That night, alone in his room, Liang Yi is consumed by memories of Qiu Yan. Her voice echoes in his mind, recalling her past assertions about the unequal treatment of men and women, her belief that "just because I used tricks doesn't mean the feeling isn't real," and her desire to choose her own path rather than being defined by marriage.
She envisions a future where "all women can study, work as government officials, own a business, or open a shop like men can," and expresses her fervent wish to be remembered by her chosen name, "not as someone else's wife, but as my true authentic self." Overwhelmed, Liang Yi collapses, weeping, as these memories flood him. Qin Xuan reports for duty as the Ministry of War Imperial Guard.
Other officials are gossiping about a tricky robbery case involving Northern Liang merchants, noting that no one wants to handle it. They remark that if handled well, he'd be accused of siding with Northern Liang, but if mishandled, Northern Liang would cause trouble. An official greets Qin Xuan, inquiring about his father, Duke Ying's health, and the delay of his marriage to the Empyrean Fairy due to her mourning period.
Qin Xuan then asks about the unclaimed Northern Liang robbery case. The official advises him against taking it, explaining that although no lives were lost when Northern Liang merchants were robbed by bandits near the suburb, the incident is sensitive because Dashuo and Northern Liang are currently in peace negotiations. Any mishandling could offend Northern Liang and jeopardize the hard-won "trade deals." Despite the warning, Qin Xuan volunteers to take on the case.
Qiu Min visits Qin Xuan at the Ministry of War, bringing him fruits and snacks, concerned he might be too busy to eat. Qin Xuan, however, coldly rejects her offerings, stating he is "not hungry" and has "work to do." He also declines a handmade perfume pouch containing a "safety talisman," asserting, "If no one is plotting something against me, I will be safe."
Qiu Min then informs him that Qiu Yan sent word two days prior that she was leaving the capital to travel, and that Liang Yi even sent Song Jin to the Qiu Residence to arrange for Qingdai to accompany her. Qin Xuan expresses surprise that "Liang Yi didn't ask her to stay?"
Qiu Min replies that "no one can stop Qiu Yan when she decides to do something," concluding that Qiu Yan chose "neither me nor Liang Yi" because she "loves herself the most." Qin Xuan, accepting the news, states, "I will make a name for myself and she'll hear it wherever she goes," indicating his determination to prove himself.
A subordinate then advises Qiu Min not to visit the government office regularly, as it might make Qin Xuan appear "pampering" to others. Later, while Liang Yi is flying a long-string kite that Qiu Yan made for Madam Jin, a messenger from Mr. Zhan arrives. The messenger reports that Mr. Zhan, critically ill, had a sudden rally that morning and urgently requested to see Liang Yi, claiming he had vital information regarding the truth of Liang Yi's father's death.
Liang Yi immediately suspects foul play, noting his father's death, attributed to Duke Lu accidentally shooting his horse, always felt suspicious, especially since the Vice Minister of Justice is Duke Lu's nephew. Rushing to Mr. Zhan's residence, Liang Yi discovers both Mr. Zhan and the messenger dead from stabbings. His subordinate reports that a neighboring farmer found the bodies an hour prior and alerted the Fengjing Prefecture.
The Fengjing Prefecture concluded it was a "violent break-in" due to the ransacked home and stolen valuables. However, Liang Yi dismisses this as a ruse, pointing out Mr. Zhan's old age and infirmity would prevent resistance. He believes the killer deliberately staged the robbery to prevent him from hearing Mr. Zhan's revelation, and with the entire Zhan family now deceased, the Fengjing Prefecture will likely close the case hastily.
Liang Yi's subordinate agrees the timing is "too coincidental," reinforcing Liang Yi's conviction that there is "more to my father's death." Liang Yi decides they must investigate the case themselves and orders his subordinate to find out who had contact with Mr. Zhan or his servant that day, deducing the killer must have learned of Mr. Zhan's impromptu decision to reveal the truth. Qin Xuan, having accepted the Northern Liang robbery case, studies a map marking the bandits' recent activities.
A servant informs him that Qiu Min has brought him warm clothes due to yesterday's rain. Qin Xuan dismisses her. Beixue then explains that the bandits frequently operate near the feet of Huilong Mountain, a remote shortcut to Northern Liang, suggesting they must have a secret hideout for rest and stashing goods. Qin Xuan wonders where this could be. Qiu Min, who had remained nearby, interjects, claiming she knows the location.
She recounts that during Song Jin's search for the Empyrean Fairy, he investigated Huilong Mountain, where she observed many interconnected caves that would make a "perfect hideout." She even offers to show Qin Xuan the place. Beixue initially doubts the bandits' ability to establish a mountain base, but then considers Qiu Min's suggestion plausible.
However, Qin Xuan refutes Qiu Min, stating that the caves are connected to a subterranean stream and would be flooded during the current rainy season, making them unsuitable as a hideout. He sharply tells Qiu Min, "If you don't know anything, don't offer your opinion."
Episode 30 Recap
Song Jin reported to Liang Yi that before Mr. Zhan's death, only the imperial chef, Mr. Ding, had visited him, bringing food as comfort. Song Jin found the situation peculiar, noting how swiftly and smoothly events unfolded. He questioned why the case of Liang Yi’s late father, which Liang Yi himself had closed four years prior, was now being reopened.
Liang Yi, convinced that Mr. Zhan’s case was linked to his father’s, resolved not to overlook any lead, even if it meant pursuing a false one. Acting on this intuition, Liang Yi, accompanied by Song Jin, went to Mr. Ding’s residence. Inside, they discovered a body that had recently died, with a broken crossbow bolt from the Firewood Office protruding from its chest.
Recognizing they had walked into a trap, Liang Yi moved to leave, but Yuan Lang and his men suddenly stormed in, surrounding them. Yuan Lang accused Liang Yi of murdering the imperial chef and moved to arrest him. To buy Liang Yi time to escape, Song Jin courageously blocked their path, standing his ground until he tragically fell, mortally wounded by their blades. Heartbroken, Liang Yi was forced to flee, leaving his loyal subordinate behind.
Following this, Yuan Lang went to the Emperor, presenting a fabricated narrative of Liang Yi’s alleged crimes. He claimed that Liang Yi had attempted to bribe Mr. Ding to poison the Emperor’s food and, upon refusal, had brutally silenced him. Yuan Lang alleged that Mr. Ding had bravely exposed Liang Yi, even pre-notifying the Main Administrative Office of his meeting with Liang Yi, but Yuan Lang's arrival had been too late to save him.
Initially, the Emperor expressed disbelief, citing Liang Yi’s years of loyal service. However, Yuan Lang presented a list of officials Liang Yi had secretly befriended. He elaborated that Liang Yi had exploited his position as Inspector of the Firewood Office to monitor officials, specifically leveraging the He family’s misconducts against civilian women to coerce General He into a secret alliance.
Yuan Lang further accused Liang Yi of abusing the Emperor’s trust to manipulate court politics and eliminate rivals, asserting that his crimes were shocking and undeniable. Yuan Lang theorized that after the Emperor reinvigorated the Main Administrative Office, Liang Yi felt he had lost favor and began seeking a new master. He pointed out the close relationship between Noble Consort Guo, the Crown Prince’s birth mother, and Marquis Wenyuan’s family.
Yuan Lang suggested that Liang Yi could easily gain the Crown Prince’s trust through this connection. He warned that the kind-hearted Crown Prince, no match for Liang Yi’s cunning, could be manipulated to control ministers and even the Northern Army of the He family, effectively allowing Liang Yi to rule Dashuo. Enraged by these accusations, the Emperor immediately ordered Liang Yi to be captured alive for a direct interrogation.
Following the imperial decree, Yuan Lang sealed off the Liang Residence, prohibiting anyone from leaving until the case was resolved and arranging for the Main Administrative Office to handle all supplies and security. Despite his success, Yuan Lang remained deeply uneasy.
He recognized that the trap for Liang Yi was not particularly subtle, yet Liang Yi had fallen into it, leading him to believe that a hidden mastermind had engineered this elaborate scheme, finding a way to force Liang Yi into the situation. This person's true identity and capabilities were still unknown, leaving Yuan Lang himself in a precarious position. Meanwhile, Qin Xuan completed his mission of recovering lost goods for a Northern Liang dignitary.
However, the dignitary's haste to leave without inspecting the retrieved items or signing official papers immediately struck Qin Xuan as suspicious. He also learned that the northern trade routes were now specially guarded. Soon after, Qin Xuan learned from Qiu Min that Liang Yi had been accused of murder and treason and was now a city-wide fugitive. Distraught, Qin Xuan resolved to find Liang Yi before Yuan Lang could.
At the same time, Qiu Yan and Qingdai had reached Mozhou, a border town between Dashuo and Northern Liang. Enchanted by the local culture, they stumbled upon a wedding. Qiu Yan noted that contrary to rumors in the capital, Northern Liang people did not look crude. They learned that unlike Dashuo, where red symbolizes joy, white is considered most auspicious for Northern Liangs.
They also observed the custom of Northern Liang women wearing a large thumb ring from childhood, which the groom removes during the wedding to symbolize the bride’s coming of age and the opening of her maidenhood. Qiu Yan was particularly intrigued to learn about the Anling blossom, a local herb whose petals could be ground into a potent Anling poison.
This poison was symbolically scattered at weddings, signifying that breaking one’s marital vows was akin to ingesting the fatal toxin, leading to a swift, symptomless death. Overhearing whispers about Liang Yi’s wanted status and the serious nature of his alleged crime, Qiu Yan grew gravely concerned for his safety and immediately rushed back towards the capital. Back in the capital, Yuan Lang sought out Shi Xiaoxiao, demanding to know Liang Yi’s whereabouts and handing her a letter.
Shi Xiaoxiao refused to cooperate, citing Yuan Lang’s broken promise to make her Liang Yi’s wife and unwilling to marry a man condemned for treason and facing annihilation of his entire clan. Yuan Lang, revealing that he was merely following orders, explained that a mastermind had set a death trap for Liang Yi, and he, Yuan Lang, was merely taking advantage of the opportunity.
He urged Shi Xiaoxiao to cooperate, stressing that Liang Yi’s only chance of survival was to be captured by the Main Administrative Office, as falling into the mastermind’s hands would guarantee his demise. Qin Xuan successfully located Liang Yi and arranged for his hiding in an abandoned warehouse of the Ministry of War, a place untouched for years and outside the Main Administrative Office's jurisdiction. Upon learning of Song Jin’s tragic sacrifice, Qin Xuan felt a deep sorrow.
Liang Yi, however, insisted that Qin Xuan not get involved further, knowing that Yuan Lang was aware of their close ties. Instead, Liang Yi tasked Yao Gai with investigating Mr. Ding’s background and connections. Liang Yi felt a grim relief that Qiu Yan had left, saving her from his current predicament.
He then painstakingly crafted a memorial tablet for Song Jin, recalling their shared childhood and lamenting Song Jin’s fate as a loyal servant forced into a life of violence, unlike his own chosen path. Liang Yi also remembered Song Jin's earnest wish that he would not seek revenge for his father but rather live a happy life away from court entanglements. Grief-stricken and furious, Liang Yi vowed revenge.
Meanwhile, Yao Gai began his investigation in the marketplace, sensing he was being followed. Turning around, he found Qiu Yan, who immediately began pressing him for Liang Yi’s whereabouts. Yao Gai, feigning ignorance and trying to mislead her by suggesting Liang Yi would have fled the capital, later reported to Liang Yi that all physical evidence related to Mr. Ding was stored in the Main Administrative Office's warehouse.
That same night, Liang Yi stealthily entered Yuan Lang’s residence, specifically the morgue where Mr. Ding’s body was kept. Yuan Lang, who had also been there, had just left but unexpectedly returned to retrieve evidence. Liang Yi narrowly avoided detection, momentarily forgetting to close the morgue door after examining the corpse. As Liang Yi left the morgue, he again sensed someone following him. This time, it was Qiu Yan. The two reunited in a tight embrace.
Liang Yi then revealed his discovery: Mr. Ding’s corpse emitted a peculiar, rusty odor, strikingly similar to the smell from his own father’s body six years ago. He noted that despite witnessing countless deaths during his years at the Firewood Office, he had never encountered such a distinct smell before. Upon hearing this, Qiu Yan immediately connected the rusty scent to the Anling poison of Northern Liang, which she had recently learned about.
She explained that this specific poison caused victims to fall into a coma and die, leaving no other immediate symptoms. However, days after death, the body would emit a rusty odor, and the bones would eventually turn greenish-black. This new information made Liang Yi question if his father had truly died from Duke Lu’s arrow, considering the arrow in Mr. Ding’s body hadn't hit any vital organs and had caused minimal bleeding, making poisoning a plausible cause of death.
Liang Yi was stunned by the possibility that his father's death had a hidden cause. He realized that if Yuan Lang was using this six-year-old secret to frame him, someone must have provided Yuan Lang with insider information, as Yuan Lang was stationed elsewhere at the time.
Qiu Yan added that Anling blossoms only grew in Northern Liang and the poison's complex production meant only Northern Liangs knew how to use it, suggesting Yuan Lang might be colluding with Northern Liang forces to bring Liang Yi down. Despite lacking concrete proof beyond a remembered scent, Liang Yi was determined to exhume his father’s remains to confirm if the bones showed the characteristic greenish-black discoloration caused by the Anling poison.
He acknowledged the complexity of the matter, given its potential to involve two nations, and requested Qiu Yan's support, which she readily offered. Liang Yi arranged a safe place for Qiu Yan to stay. Seeing her sneeze, he instinctively called out for Song Jin to fetch hot water, before the painful realization of Song Jin’s death washed over him, deepening his sorrow.
As Qiu Yan tried to comfort him, Liang Yi, desperate to protect her after losing Song Jin, gently rendered her unconscious and entrusted her to Qin Xuan, explaining his desire to keep her out of danger. When Qiu Yan awoke and learned of Liang Yi’s decision to send her away, she vehemently refused to leave with Qin Xuan, insisting on returning to Liang Yi.
She confessed her profound love for him, declaring that she could not live without him, explaining that while she once thought nothing was more important than freedom and her future, hearing of his peril while she was at the Northern Liang border had filled her with an unprecedented fear, making her realize her mistake.
Episode 31 Recap
After carefully examining the remains, Liang Yi confirms his father died from Anling poison, which is initially undetectable and takes days to produce a distinct odor. He concludes that the true culprits are not Yuan Lang, but Northern Liangs, and that Mr. Zhan, the Imperial Physician, was likely coerced into administering the poison since he couldn't have detected it so soon after death.
Qiu Yan notes that Noble Consort Guo, a close family friend, sent Mr. Zhan to diagnose his father, raising suspicion. Meanwhile, Qin Xuan is confronted by Qiu Min about his whereabouts. He admits he visited Qiu Yan, prompting Qiu Min to question why he still pursues Qiu Yan, who she describes as selfish and manipulative.
Qin Xuan, visibly annoyed, concedes that Qiu Yan is indeed exceptional in many ways that Qiu Min cannot emulate, lamenting that he is not good enough for her. He also reminds Qiu Min that she once drugged him, making him mistake her for Qiu Yan. Liang Yi suspects Noble Consort Guo is a Northern Liang, a fact Qiu Yan had observed at the border.
She explains that Northern Liang merchant daughters wear a large ring on their right index finger from childhood, leaving a permanent mark, which she saw on Noble Consort Guo. Liang Yi deduces that if Noble Consort Guo is Northern Liang, her son, the Crown Prince, also has Northern Liang blood. He believes his father either discovered this secret or was close to the truth.
To confirm, Liang Yi and Qiu Yan seek out Hei Laosan, an old human trafficker Liang Yi's father had hired years ago. Hei Laosan confirms that Liang Yi's father investigated a Northern Liang girl, then about 12-13 years old, who was smuggled from Mozhou to the capital, and that he took her indenture contract. Given Noble Consort Guo recently celebrated her 40th birthday, the timing aligns.
Liang Yi deduces that his father obtaining this proof made Noble Consort Guo kill him, and she then preemptively killed Mr. Zhan and framed Liang Yi for continuing the investigation. Elsewhere, Qin Xuan and his aide, Beixue, uncover unusual Northern Liang activities in the capital. Qin Xuan recounts returning goods to Northern Liang merchants who refused to open their boxes publicly; he later discovered the hidden contents were Anling blossom petals.
He saw one merchant, with a fierce face and a mole between his eyebrows, deliver these petals to another Northern Liang. Qiu Yan identifies this man as one of Noble Consort Guo's assassins, concluding that Noble Consort Guo has a network of Northern Liang spies disguised as merchants. Shi Xiaoxiao secretly meets Liang Yi, concerned about Madam Jin's welfare. She reveals that the Main Administrative Office, despite their official duty, is deliberately providing rotten food to Madam Jin.
Shi Xiaoxiao suspects this mistreatment is not Yuan Lang's order but rather an act of revenge from lower-ranking officials. She provides Liang Yi with the guard schedules and numbers at the Marquis's residence, enabling him to plan Madam Jin's rescue. Before the rescue operation, Liang Yi attempts to send Shi Xiaoxiao back to the Royal Academy for her safety, even arranging land for her. Shi Xiaoxiao questions why he protects her but allows Qiu Yan into danger.
Liang Yi states that Qiu Yan has chosen to share his fate, and he won't disappoint her, but he doesn't want Shi Xiaoxiao to die for him or owe him. Shi Xiaoxiao, hurt by his dismissal of her feelings, finally confesses that she lied about Madam Jin's situation. She had conspired with Yuan Lang to lure Liang Yi out of the Ministry of War's hay storage, as Yuan Lang promised to spare Liang Yi's life and help her marry him.
She warns Liang Yi that if they don't leave the storage, Yuan Lang will set it on fire. As they attempt to escape the hay storage, Liang Yi realizes they are being pursued not by Yuan Lang's men but by the assassins who had previously hunted him, and they are cornered. Liang Yi declares they cannot involve Shi Xiaoxiao. Overhearing him, Shi Xiaoxiao injects Liang Yi with a narcotic-laced needle, knocking him unconscious.
She instructs Qiu Yan to take Liang Yi and escape while she and Yao Gai disguise themselves to lure the assassins away. Shi Xiaoxiao tells Qiu Yan that her sacrifice is for herself, as she cannot bear the thought of Liang Yi remembering Qiu Yan forever if Qiu Yan died for him; instead, she wants Liang Yi to remember her for all his life. Later, Yuan Lang discovers the bodies of Shi Xiaoxiao and Yao Gai, ordering their respectful burial.
Qiu Yan tends to Liang Yi until he regains consciousness, then sorrowfully informs him of Shi Xiaoxiao's sacrifice. Liang Yi is heartbroken, reflecting on his past use of her without considering her feelings. Qiu Yan delivers Shi Xiaoxiao's final message: she couldn't die with him, but he must never forget her. Eunuch Liu arrives at the Liang Residence to take Madam Jin to the palace, stating it's Noble Consort Guo's command for Madam Jin's safety.
Qiu Yan and Liang Yi meet with Qin Xuan, revealing they have returned to the Marquis's residence, now the safest place after Yuan Lang's search. They learn from Qin Xuan that Shi Xiaoxiao and Yao Gai were found dead, and Qiu Yan asserts that Noble Consort Guo was responsible for their deaths. Eunuch Liu then brings Madam Jin's bracelet to Liang Yi, inviting him and Qiu Yan to meet Noble Consort Guo.
Upon their arrival, Noble Consort Guo directly questions Liang Yi's lack of deference. Liang Yi demands to know his mother's whereabouts, and Noble Consort Guo promises Madam Jin's safety if Liang Yi cooperates. Liang Yi accuses her of his father's murder. Noble Consort Guo openly admits to killing Liang Yi's father because he investigated her origins. She advises Liang Yi and Qiu Yan to leave the capital permanently to ensure Madam Jin's safety.
Qiu Yan confronts Noble Consort Guo about framing Liang Yi and sending Northern Liang assassins. Noble Consort Guo denies sending the assassins, claiming she only sent eunuchs to stop Liang Yi from investigating his father's case, as she feared old secrets would resurface. She admits her Northern Liang identity but insists she has never harmed Dashuo. Liang Yi concludes there is another group of Northern Liangs involved, actively trying to frame Noble Consort Guo.
Noble Consort Guo then reveals the full truth: she is the daughter of a Northern Liang traveling merchant, kidnapped and sold into the palace, rising to become Noble Consort with the Emperor's favor and Liang Yi's mother's help. Six years ago, after her son became Crown Prince, she discovered Liang Yi's father's memorandum exposing her origins. She hid and destroyed it before the Emperor could read it.
When Liang Yi's father was injured by Duke Lu, she seized the opportunity to poison him and bury the secret. Liang Yi asks if the memorandum included the indenture contract, knowing his father would have provided such evidence. Noble Consort Guo states she never saw the indenture contract, leading them to believe someone took it beforehand and knew she killed Liang Yi's father.
She then raises the possibility that this mysterious individual, and the Northern Liangs currently pursuing Liang Yi, are the same group. Noble Consort Guo implores Liang Yi to help the Crown Prince uncover the truth and eliminate Northern Liang spies, stressing the Crown Prince cannot act himself due to the risk of exposing his foreign bloodline and facing charges of deceiving the Emperor. Liang Yi questions why he should help his father's murderer.
Noble Consort Guo appeals to his sense of duty, trusting he will not prioritize personal vengeance over the safety of Dashuo and the Crown Prince. She promises to commit suicide as atonement once the truth is fully revealed.
Episode 32 Recap
Following the discovery of Yao Gai and Shi Xiaoxiao's bodies, buried beside Song Jin's tomb, investigations revealed they were hunted by trained, elusive, and cruel assassins. This suggested a conspiracy far deeper than mere political rivalry. Liang Yi and his concubine, Su Yiwan, who had previously gone on the run, were brought to Yuan Lang at the Main Administrative Office, having willingly decided to surrender.
They explained that the true conflict was not between two officials but a larger struggle between Dashuo and Northern Liang. They asserted that Northern Liang spies sought to eliminate Liang Yi to prevent him from exposing the Noble Consort's true bloodline. Liang Yi explained that the mastermind behind the plot had approached Yuan Lang even before Mr. Zhan contacted him, indicating Mr. Zhan's dying words were merely a lure.
He further clarified that Northern Liang's primary motive to kill him was to obstruct his proposed military reform for the Northern Army of Dashuo, which aimed to reduce heavy military spending and enhance Dashuo's military power in preparation for an inevitable war with Northern Liang. Yuan Lang, initially skeptical and accusing Liang Yi of collusion, was urged by Liang Yi to understand the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need to prioritize national interest.
Despite their long-standing animosity, which included Liang Yi framing the Qiu family and causing Song Jin's death, Qiu Yan and Liang Yi gambled on Yuan Lang's patriotism. They surrendered themselves, believing that despite his thirst for power, Yuan Lang was a person deeply devoted to his country. Yuan Lang, acknowledging their trust, agreed to cooperate. The immediate priorities were to raid the Northern Liang merchants' storage and, crucially, to identify and eliminate the snitch within the Main Administrative Office.
Liang Yi recalled a previous incident where Northern Liang assassins ambushed him after Shi Xiaoxiao lured him, confirming his suspicion that there was an enemy within Yuan Lang's ranks. Qiu Yan suggested that their overt surrender would alert this snitch, causing them to make a move to relay information, thus exposing themselves. With Liang Yi now officially assisting as a witness, the stage was set.
During a headcount, the mute old man Wang, who managed the keys to torture devices, was found missing. A search of his residence uncovered writing in Northern Liang's tongue, leading to his capture. However, Qiu Yan observed that Wang suffered from severe myopia, needing to hold objects close to discern them, making it impossible for him to have written such small characters. She deduced that he was framed.
Realizing the spy's cunning, Qiu Yan proposed a method to unmask the real culprit. Yuan Lang would announce a plan to send a secret agent to Northern Liang, requiring everyone to copy a sample of Northern Liang's tongue handwriting under the guise of identifying the best imitator. When everyone was copying, Liang Yi tested them by saying "stop" in Northern Liang's tongue. Jiang Yun, Yuan Lang's subordinate, stopped instantly, revealing his understanding of the language.
Liang Yi further explained his true trap: he had deliberately altered a stroke in one character of the copied text, changing a "Horizontal" to a "Throw." An imitator would copy this exactly, but a true Northern Liang spy, focused on disguising their handwriting, would instinctively correct it to the original "Horizontal" stroke if they knew the language. Jiang Yun's handwriting revealed the "Horizontal" stroke, confirming his identity as the spy.
Jiang Yun was immediately apprehended and, under intense interrogation by Yuan Lang, confessed that the Northern Liang spy hideout was located west of the city. Meanwhile, Qiu Min arrived, having followed Qin Xuan from the Ministry of War out of concern for his safety, and insisted on staying despite Qin Xuan's protests. The group then formulated a plan to capture the Northern Liang assassins.
Knowing the assassins were well-trained but few in number, they decided on a strategy of wit over force, planning to use a colorless and odorless sleeping gas, previously from the Firewood Office but now stored in the Main Administrative Office's armory. To prevent the assassins from taking hostages in the densely populated area, they decided to lure the local residents away by announcing a city-wide distribution of free rice.
Liang Yi asked Qiu Yan to remain behind for her safety, but she was nonetheless present at the operation site where she later encountered Jiang Yun. The plan to evacuate the residents by distributing rice was successful. However, the attempt to capture the Northern Liang assassins went awry as the assassins had anticipated their move and laid a counter-ambush. Simultaneously, Jiang Yun managed to escape from his prison cell, killing anyone in his path.
Qiu Min, hidden, witnessed Qiu Yan confronting Jiang Yun. Though she initially considered helping her sister, memories of Qin Xuan's harsh words made her discard her knife and flee. Qiu Yan, in a desperate struggle, accidentally killed Jiang Yun. She immediately rushed out, worried about Qiu Min's safety. Qiu Min, feigning ignorance, learned of the ambush at the assassins' hideout and expressed concern for Qin Xuan.
Realizing their limited manpower, Qiu Yan sought assistance from Official Tong, who successfully helped subdue the remaining Northern Liangs. Yuan Lang explained Liang Yi's presence as a fugitive assisting in a grave matter, promising to later report to His Majesty and requesting Official Tong's temporary discretion. Back at the Main Administrative Office, Qiu Yan recounted Jiang Yun's counter-scheme to Liang Yi, who, relieved to find her unharmed, expressed his concern.
The captured Northern Liang shared crucial information: their grand plan involved revealing Noble Consort Guo's indenture contract after the Crown Prince ascended the throne. This revelation of the Crown Prince's Northern Liang bloodline would incite other feudal lords to rebel, plunging Dashuo into internal strife, at which point Northern Liang would invade from the south. Crucially, the indenture contract was still in the hands of a snitch within the Imperial Palace.
Given access to His Majesty's memorandums, the prime suspects were the Grand Preceptor, Imperial Commander Yan, and Eunuch Liu, who were always present during His Majesty's reviews. Yuan Lang devised a new plan: since the assassins' hideout had been dismantled, the palace snitch was likely unaware of the full extent of their exposure. Yuan Lang would draft three distinct memorandums, each proposing to send secret agents to Northern Liang with a unique list of candidate names.
These memorandums, with the cooperation of Noble Consort Guo and a bribed eunuch, would be strategically delivered to the three suspects at different times and locations. Eunuch Liu would sort the first memorandum in the Imperial Study, Imperial Commander Yan would review the second before it reached the Imperial Study, and the Grand Preceptor would read the third aloud in the temple.
The snitch would then unwittingly reveal their identity by sending a carrier pigeon with the specific list they had seen. That evening, Qiu Yan found Liang Yi deep in thought. She joined him, comforting him by saying that Song Jin and his parents would surely understand his difficult choices. In a moment of shared intimacy, they embraced and kissed.
This tender scene was witnessed by Qiu Min, who had previously misjudged Qiu Yan's feelings for Qin Xuan but now realized her own suspicions were misplaced. The next morning, a carrier pigeon arrived, confirming Imperial Commander Yan as the initial suspect. Qin Xuan volunteered to lure Imperial Commander Yan away from his guards, creating a fabricated story about a conflict between the Ministry of War and Imperial Guards.
Liang Yi insisted Qiu Yan accompany him, declaring she must remain within his sight after her recent brushes with danger. Qin Xuan successfully lured Imperial Commander Yan, who was then apprehended by Yuan Lang and Liang Yi. Imperial Commander Yan vehemently denied being the Northern Liang spy, pointing out his alibi of staying at the Imperial Guards Camp overnight without opportunity to send a pigeon and inviting them to verify it.
Liang Yi quickly realized that if Imperial Commander Yan was the real spy, he wouldn't have sent an incriminating message, as doing so would only narrow the list of suspects to himself. Imperial Commander Yan then mentioned that the Grand Preceptor and Eunuch Liu had accompanied His Majesty to the Chinese alchemy room that morning for a ritual and to consume a newly concocted pill.
A chilling realization struck Liang Yi: the snitch, knowing exposure was imminent, was likely attempting to carry out the Northern Liang's plan prematurely by harming His Majesty. The group immediately rushed to the palace.
Episode 33 Recap
Imperial Commander Yan and Liang Yi burst into the Hongzhen Holy Palace. Imperial Commander Yan declared he had come to save His Majesty and would show no mercy to those who stood in his way. Inside, the Grand Preceptor presented the newly refined heavenly pill to the Emperor, assuring him of its effectiveness despite its pungent smell, which he claimed was due to its unique ingredients. Eunuch Liu also vouched for the pill's safety.
Convinced, the Emperor consumed half a pill and then offered the other half to the Grand Preceptor, wishing for shared longevity. At that moment, Liang Yi rushed in, warning the Emperor that the pill was poisonous and that the Grand Preceptor was a Northern Liang spy. The Grand Preceptor, protesting his innocence and crying "I am innocent, Your Majesty!" , immediately died with a look of disbelief on his face.
Liang Yi explained to Official Yuan that he had come to surrender information about Northern Liang's plot to assassinate the Emperor. The Emperor was quickly escorted back to the palace for a physician. Once back in the palace, he complained of dizziness, sore shoulders, and aching legs, feeling uncomfortable all over.
While Imperial Physicians reported no abnormalities in his pulse, he worried that the half-pill he had consumed would lead to a tragic death like the Grand Preceptor's, especially after the Noble Consort warned him about Northern Liang poisons that could remain symptomless for days before taking full effect. Panicked, the Emperor demanded an emetic soup immediately. Meanwhile, Qiu Yan, analyzing the situation, felt something was off.
She reasoned that Official Yuan's meticulously planned three memorials could only have been uncovered if there were two spies comparing lists, leading her to suspect Eunuch Liu. She also noted the disparity between the Grand Preceptor's immediate death and the Emperor's delayed symptoms. The Emperor eventually consumed the emetic soup, which Eunuch Liu brought to him. He was immediately seized by agonizing stomach pains.
Others initially believed the soup was working, but to their horror, the Emperor suddenly gasped and died. Eunuch Liu, feigning deep sorrow, quickly blamed the "Northern Liang old thief" (referring to the Grand Preceptor) for using varying doses of poison, claiming it was too late even with the soup. The Noble Consort, despite her grief, remained composed. She ordered Imperial Commander Yan to immediately seal all palace gates, contain the news, and maintain order.
She then dispatched Liu Quan to inform the Crown Prince to prepare for his ascension. Upon arriving at the palace gates, Liang Yi, Qiu Yan, and Qin Xuan learned of the Emperor's death. They were permitted entry and immediately informed the Noble Consort that Liu Quan was also a Northern Liang spy, much to her shock, as she had just sent him to the Crown Prince.
Qiu Yan explained that the Grand Preceptor was merely a pawn, and the pill given to the Emperor was harmless. The true poison, she asserted, was in the emetic soup, added by Liu Quan during its delivery, bypassing all testing procedures. A subsequent examination by physicians confirmed Qiu Yan's theory.
Realizing the full extent of Liu Quan's cunning, the Noble Consort furiously ordered Imperial Commander Yan to dispatch guards to all major roads in the capital and seize Liu Quan, fearing he would escape with the indenture contract to a feudal lord and ignite chaos across Dashuo. Despite extensive efforts to search all major roads leading out of the capital and additional barriers set up by the Main Administrative Office, Liu Quan remained elusive.
The Noble Consort grew increasingly frustrated, giving Imperial Commander Yan three days to find him or face removal from office. Official Yuan tried to appease her, explaining that while Liu Quan's exact whereabouts were unknown, they had successfully contained him within the capital, preventing any immediate feudal rebellion. The Noble Consort, however, remained deeply uneasy, especially with the Crown Prince's enthronement ceremony approaching, as Liu Quan's continued freedom posed a significant threat to national stability.
Liang Yi reminded the Noble Consort of her promise to return his mother and clear his name, and the Noble Consort confirmed his mother was safe with her. Qiu Yan, meanwhile, mused on Liu Quan's seemingly impatient escape. She deduced that he must have escaped the city and then secretly snuck back into the capital. His confident disappearance suggested he was certain his hiding place was somewhere they would never suspect.
She concluded he aimed to wait until everyone had given up on the fruitless outer search, then strike when their guard was down, instigating feudal lords to revolt only after the Crown Prince had officially solidified his power. Liang Yi resolved to arrange a comprehensive search of the entire capital.
Concerned about Qin Xuan, who had not returned home for days due to his work at the Ministry of War in coordinating the city-wide search for Liu Quan, Qiu Min went to find him. Qin Xuan explained the revised theory that Liu Quan had snuck back into the capital. Qiu Min, wanting to help, claimed she knew a potential hiding place for Liu Quan and led Qin Xuan to a former Northern Liang spy stronghold.
Beixue, who accompanied them, immediately noticed the seal on the door had been tampered with. Inside, they found Liang Yi and Qiu Yan, who had also considered the same location. Qiu Min admired Qiu Yan's foresight. After searching the premises and finding nothing, Qiu Yan suggested they leave. However, Qiu Min noticed suspicious crates that hadn't been there before. Upon closer inspection, Qiu Min discovered a secret door behind the crates leading to a cellar.
Liang Yi descended first, followed by Qiu Yan, while Beixue remained above. In the cellar, they finally found Liu Quan, who appeared remarkably calm, drinking Northern Liang wine. He acknowledged their success in finding him but asked to finish his wine and share his story, promising not to speak in court otherwise. They agreed. Liu Quan revealed he had been a spy for Northern Liang since the age of twelve, infiltrating the Dashuo palace as a eunuch.
He meticulously rose through the ranks, even orchestrating the rise of a low-grade fortune teller into the Grand Preceptor, using him to gain proximity to the Emperor. He denied involvement in the Wei clan's demise but confessed to his role in the death of Liang Yi's father. He explained that Liang Yi's father had discovered the Noble Consort's Northern Liang heritage and submitted her indenture contract in a secret memorial.
Liu Quan intercepted the memorial, hid the contract, and purposely allowed the Noble Consort to discover the memorial's existence, leading her to destroy it and assassinate Liang Yi's father. He further admitted to arranging for Duke Lu to shoot Liang Yi's father to facilitate the Noble Consort's actions. Liu Quan also confessed to his attempts on Liang Yi's life, driven by Liang Yi's efforts to reform the military, which he viewed as a significant threat to Northern Liang's southward expansion.
He admitted his "only failing" was Liang Yi escaping his initial assassination plot, forcing him to deploy hidden Northern Liang assassins. He acknowledged the death of Liang Yi's guard, Song Jin. Liu Quan then boasted about successfully killing the Emperor, explaining that he had immediately seen through Liang Yi's group's "three memorials" ploy when the Grand Preceptor came to him with his own list.
He had never informed the Grand Preceptor of the true assassination plan, knowing he wouldn't dare participate. Instead, he simply added a small, non-lethal dose of Anling poison to the Grand Preceptor's tea, designed to kill him if agitated, making it appear as though the pill had caused his death. After finishing his story and his wine, Liu Quan, with a wry smile, triggered a hidden mechanism, sending a volley of arrows flying.
Liang Yi and Qin Xuan scrambled to defend themselves. In a selfless act, Qiu Min threw herself in front of Qiu Yan, taking an arrow to shield her, and immediately fell unconscious. Qin Xuan swiftly carried the gravely wounded Qiu Min back to his residence. The physician managed to stop the bleeding, but Qiu Min's survival hinged on her ability to endure the night. Meanwhile, Liang Yi delivered the recovered indenture contract, taken from Liu Quan, to the Noble Consort.
He confirmed that Liu Quan had been handed over to Official Yuan and reminded her that he had fulfilled his part of their agreement. The Noble Consort, in turn, informed him that his mother had been safely returned to the Marquis Weiyuan's residence and reassured him that his name would be officially cleared of regicide and treason after the Crown Prince's enthronement. She pledged to uphold her promise.
Later, in a private moment, the Noble Consort identified herself as "Que Qing," a subject of "Great Liang." She then burned the indenture contract to ashes, before taking her own life by hanging, having left a note indicating her desire to join the Emperor in death. Qin Xuan remained diligently by Qiu Min's side throughout the night, deeply affected by her importance to him. To his immense relief, Qiu Min finally awoke.
Seeing Qin Xuan holding her hand, she instinctively squeezed it back, bringing a look of joyous surprise to Qin Xuan's face. He immediately called for the physician, who confirmed Qiu Min's recovery. Qin Xuan arranged for Qiu Min to recuperate at his residence. As the major crises seemed to resolve, Liang Yi assumed Qiu Yan would once again leave the capital.
However, Qiu Yan expressed her intention to stay longer, noting it was a rare return and she wished to remain with Madam Jin, who had been quite shaken by the recent events. As Liang Yi prepared to speak to Qiu Yan about something important, they were interrupted by Official Yuan, who, acknowledging his changed perception of Liang Yi after their recent shared struggles, requested a private conversation.
Episode 34 (Ending) Recap
After Liu Quan's execution and the Noble Consort's suicide in the palace, Yuan Lang visited Liang Yi. He conveyed the new Emperor's admiration for Liang Yi and an offer to reinstate him as head of the Firewood Office, or any other position he desired.
Liang Yi, however, had already decided to resign from his official post, stating that the Imperial Court now had worthy officials like Yuan Lang, and a man like himself, notorious as the late Emperor's "hound," was no longer needed. He requested Yuan Lang to convey to the Emperor his wish for the Firewood Office to be disbanded entirely, hoping such an agency would no longer be necessary in the world.
Yuan Lang, deeply impressed by Liang Yi's stance, apologized for their past conflicts. Before parting, Liang Yi entrusted Yuan Lang with information about a couple, Zhao Mingli and Yueying, residing in Baxia Village in Xiuwu County. He revealed they were key witnesses to the He family's crime of murdering Zhao Mingli's daughter, evidence he had kept to settle a score.
Yuan Lang promised to bring the He family to justice and clear the deceased's name, while Liang Yi expressed his hope that Yuan Lang would assist the new Emperor in bringing peace to Dashuo. Upon learning of Liang Yi's resignation, Qiu Yan was initially shocked. However, her shock soon turned into joy as Liang Yi proposed they embark on a journey together, fulfilling her desire to explore the world and collect its myriad stories.
Liang Yi assured her he had firmly turned down the Emperor's offer and would not go back on his word. Qiu Yan expressed delight at the prospect of his company, finding him far more likable than when they first met. They playfully bickered about their personalities and decided to take Madam Jin, Liang Yi's mother, with them, confident she would enjoy the adventure. Before their departure, Qiu Yan returned to the Qiu Residence to bid farewell to her family.
Her uncle and aunt offered amulets and money for her journey. Her younger brother, speaking with newfound maturity, informed her that he was assisting the First Madam with bookkeeping and intended to study diligently to become a scholar like their father, to restore the family's honor. Qiu Yan encouraged him to become an outstanding and righteous man, reminding him that the Qiu family's future rested on his shoulders.
She then sought out Madam Liu, who initially refused to see her, complaining about having raised a daughter in vain. Qiu Yan confronted her, admitting she once hated Madam Liu for favoring her brother, but that resentment had faded as she now controlled her own destiny.
When Madam Liu asked for forgiveness, Qiu Yan simply stated it "didn't matter as much now" and thanked her for raising her and for the position she had secured for Madam Liu within the Qiu family, considering them "even." Madam Liu confessed to treating Qiu Yan unfairly but claimed she too had suffered. She implored Qiu Yan to call her "mother," but Qiu Yan only wished her "Godspeed" and urged her to take care.
Next, Qiu Yan visited her younger sister, Qiu Min. Qiu Min shared that she was recovering well and that Qin Xuan had been caring for her. She had come to understand that love meant considering the other person's well-being, not just one's own desires. She acknowledged Qin Xuan's continued care was sufficient, and she would no longer trouble him, choosing to let fate guide their relationship.
Qiu Min then revealed that her near-death experience had clarified her true affections: it was Qiu Yan, not Qin Xuan, whom she cared for most deeply. She reminisced about Qiu Yan's first arrival at their home, when she had given her a bottle of osmanthus fragrance, sincerely saying, "I like you," a sentiment Qiu Yan had dismissed at the time.
Qiu Min confessed that over the years, she had envied Qiu Yan, wanting to be like her, even while simultaneously looking down upon her. She hated herself for lacking Qiu Yan's courage and strength, and for Qiu Yan never showing her respect. Qiu Yan offered an apology, but Qiu Min brushed it off, stating she too despised that past version of herself.
Their conversation ended with Qiu Min expressing her affection for Qiu Yan and bidding her sister a heartfelt farewell. After leaving her sister, Qiu Yan told Liang Yi to return home, indicating she had a personal matter to attend to. Shortly after Liang Yi departed, Yuan Lang intercepted Qiu Yan, demanding she return the evidence she had stolen from his study concerning Lin Changzhi's embezzlement.
Yuan Lang admitted to framing Qiu Yan's father, Qiu Yi, as a means to undermine Liang Yi, though he claimed he never intended for Qiu Yi to die in a foreign land. With the new Emperor's ascension, Yuan Lang saw an opportunity to advance his ambitions and could not allow Qiu Yan to disrupt his plans. Qiu Yan fiercely vowed revenge for her father's death.
Yuan Lang then revealed a secret about Liang Yi: the true killer of Marquis Wenyuan, Liang Yi's father, was not just the Northern Liang spies but a different mastermind. Qiu Yan immediately stopped him, admitting she already knew this truth but had concealed it from Liang Yi to protect him. Yuan Lang offered to keep the secret buried if she returned the evidence, threatening to reveal it to Liang Yi and cause him lifelong pain if she refused.
To protect Liang Yi, Qiu Yan reluctantly agreed to hand over the evidence. Soon after, an imperial decree was issued, promoting Yuan Lang to Minister of Civil Service Affairs for his role in eradicating Northern Liang spies. Another decree cleared Liang Yi of the regicide charge, but stripped him of all his titles and ranks and disbanded the Firewood Office, citing his past actions of conspiring and eradicating dissidents. Liang Yi accepted the decree.
Qiu Yan returned to the Liang Residence to find Madam Jin attempting to take her own life. Qiu Yan revealed she knew Madam Jin, not Imperial Doctor Zhan, had poisoned Marquis Wenyuan, as Madam Jin was the only one trusted by Noble Consort Guo and had the opportunity. Madam Jin confessed to being the "most heartless woman" for killing her own husband and causing her son to live a life fueled by a false quest for vengeance.
She clarified that she had acted willingly, not under coercion, explaining her deep loyalty to Noble Consort Guo, with whom she had endured immense suffering within the palace walls. She had chosen to become a "vile and heartless wife and cruel mother" to protect the Noble Consort, despite her own profound pain. When Qiu Yan questioned why she had kept the truth from Liang Yi, Madam Jin explained she wanted to spare him the suffering she endured.
Despite Qiu Yan's desperate attempts to summon a physician, Madam Jin revealed she had already consumed Anling poison and died in Qiu Yan's arms, her last breath urging Qiu Yan to protect Liang Yi from suffering. Shortly after, Liang Yi returned home, seemingly relieved from his legal troubles, only to discover his mother's lifeless body. He collapsed in anguish, pleading with her not to leave him. Qiu Yan had left a letter for him, confessing to poisoning his mother.
She wrote that she had done so to avenge her father, Qiu Yi, whose death she blamed on Liang Yi for involving the Qiu family in his conflict with Yuan Lang. Her true intention was to make Liang Yi hate her, believing this hatred would allow him to live on. She left the key to his handcuff, challenging him to find her if he sought revenge.
The Liang Residence was left desolate, a stark contrast to its once vibrant past, as Liang Yi stood amidst the ruins, seeing apparitions of Song Jin, his mother, and Qiu Yan before they dissolved into thin air. Months later, Qiu Yan, accompanied by a young boy named Xiaobao, was trying to sell her manuscript at a bookstore. She noticed a highly popular book titled "Yan Yu Fu," authored by "Tian Shu Qing Ren," and purchased it.
Meanwhile, Liang Yi, the author "Tian Shu Qing Ren," found Qiu Yan's discarded manuscript and address at the same bookstore. Following the address, he located her sitting in a pavilion, tearfully reading his book. The book described a constable who, despite his perceived strength, found himself utterly alone. He remembered a girl who had escaped him, knowing she was innocent, and longed to see her again, patiently waiting for their reunion.
The book's closing lines spoke of a desire to be together "until the end of time," asserting that their intertwined fate, symbolized by the cuffs they once shared, meant they would always be together, regardless of any perils. Qiu Yan looked up and saw Liang Yi standing before her. Both raised their hands, revealing they still wore the cuffs, and a shared smile spread across their faces.
