The Blooms At Ruyi Pavilion Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> The Blooms At Ruyi Pavilion

The Blooms At Ruyi Pavilion Synopsis

Fu Rong, a strong, intelligent, witty, and lively girl in the Dayu Kingdom, was injured in an accident and got a glimpse of a different life in a dream.

She was determined to change her fate and protect her family after the events in her dreams came true one by one.

Fu Rong was also determined to stay away from Lord Su, Xu Jin. Because she had dreamed many times that she will be buried alive with the dead because of Xu Jin. However, the red line of fate brought them closer and closer.

With the emergence of the mysterious organization Ruyi Lou, a series of events put a layer of fog on the kingdom of Dayu.

In this situation, Fu Rong and Xu Jin worked together through life and death and faced the trials and tribulations of reality together.

At the same time, Lord An was also secretly setting up a bigger conspiracy.

In the face of the unchangeable fate, the successive trickery, whether Fu Rong and Xu Jin can uphold the original intention, solve the mystery, and finally change the fate?

The Blooms At Ruyi Pavilion Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Fu Guan, the young son of the Hengjing County Magistrate, was inconsolable, crying for his fish-shaped kite which had become stuck on a tree branch. His older sister, Fu Rong, playfully reminded him of Mencius's teachings about overcoming obstacles. Despite her offer to buy him a new kite, Fu Guan insisted on keeping his own, prompting Fu Rong to declare him "loyal" and attempt to retrieve it herself.

While climbing, she lost her footing and fell, injuring her wrist and breaking her bracelet, causing blood to stain her sleeve. Her father, Fu Pin Yan, and the maidservants rushed to her aid. Fu Rong finally awoke after being unconscious for a full day and night, much to the relief of her mother, Qiao Su Niang, and her siblings, Fu Xuan and Fu Guan.

Despite the doctor's assessment of it being only a minor scratch, Qiao Su Niang had been greatly distressed. She immediately sent her maid, Bao Zhu, to inform Fu Pin Yan that Fu Rong was well and he needn't take leave. Another maid, Lan Xiang, was dispatched to fetch a second doctor for a thorough examination.

That evening, while dining, Fu Rong learned the chicken soup was for her father, who was working tirelessly, even overnight, due to the upcoming Yuedan Commentary hosted by Mr. Ju Shui. The event was known to draw massive crowds, causing Ju Shui Pavilion to be overcrowded, a fact that made Qiao Su Niang pray for peace. Fu Rong, still feeling an unexplained unease since waking, fixated on the distant Star Tower.

Her mother then presented her with a pair of beautifully embroidered shoes, affectionately calling her "Nong Nong." Fu Rong gently chided her mother for using her pet name, but Qiao Su Niang insisted Fu Rong would always be her child. The shoes featured lotus patterns, a playful nod to the phonetic similarity with "Fu Rong." Suddenly, a violent lightning bolt struck the Star Tower. Fu Pin Yan rushed to the magistrate's office, followed by Qiao Su Niang.

Inside, as Fu Xuan dressed Fu Rong's injured wrist, Fu Rong recalled her recent visit to the tower and wondered at the uncanny timing of its destruction. Fu Xuan dismissed it as a mere coincidence and comforted her sister to sleep. Waking from another nightmare, Fu Rong was troubled by a strong premonition. She recalled a past tragedy: during the previous year's Lantern Festival in Wu City, overcrowding led to numerous deaths and the county magistrate's imprisonment.

She feared a similar disaster might befall the Yuedan Commentary. Concerned, she asked Fu Xuan if she could acquire an invitation, but Fu Xuan revealed how coveted and difficult they were to obtain, noting Fu Rong's usual disinterest in such scholars. Meanwhile, at Duke Su's residence, Xu Jin, Duke Su, was discussing his remarkable recovery from a severe injury with his apothecary, Mr. Ge, and his personal guard, Xu Jia.

Despite Xu Jia's advice to let him investigate the Yuedan Commentary due to Xu Jin's incomplete recovery, Duke Su stated his intention to attend, asserting he couldn't hide forever. Determined to attend the event, Fu Rong first attempted to sneak in disguised as a painting delivery person from Shanhe Art Studio, but Wen Xing, Mr. Ju Shui's personal guard, easily saw through her ruse and sent her away.

Undeterred, Fu Rong then adopted a new disguise, donning a Taoist priest's robe and a fake mustache, and positioned herself outside Ju Shui Pavilion. While Fu Rong, in her Taoist disguise, waited outside Ju Shui Pavilion, Duke Su, still recovering from his injuries, approached her in plain clothes. He requested a fortune reading, specifically asking when he would die, citing a dream of an accidental death. Fu Rong quickly read his palm, declaring he would live a long, prosperous life.

As Wen Xing emerged from the pavilion, Fu Rong, eager to follow him, rapidly dismissed Duke Su and then confronted Wen Xing, introducing herself as a "Miraculous Fortune Teller." She warned him of impending "bloody disaster" for his master's upcoming event and offered to perform a ritual. When Wen Xing became hostile and attempted to draw his sword, mysterious stones thrown by an unseen person attacked him, causing him to mistakenly believe Fu Rong was responsible and initiating a chase.

The stones continued to impede Wen Xing at crucial moments, but Fu Rong was eventually cornered by his guards. In a desperate move, she threw a sachet of fragrant powder, inadvertently blinding herself. Suddenly, a figure with exceptional lightness skill swooped in, carrying her away to a lakeside outside the city. Fu Rong thanked her unknown benefactor, who turned out to be Duke Su, and pleaded to be taken to a nearby stream to wash her eyes.

Unwittingly, she pulled off his black veiled hat. Immediately, the man pressed a hidden blade from a fan handle against her neck, ordering her not to look back. Terrified, Fu Rong kept her eyes tightly shut, promising not to turn, all the while attempting to warn him to stay away from Ju Shui Pavilion, claiming to have sensed a coming disaster with her basic fortune-telling knowledge. Unbeknownst to her, the mysterious Duke Su had already departed.

At Duke Su's residence, Xu Jia reported finding clear signs that Ju Shui Pavilion had been tampered with. Given that Duke Su was on the guest list, he openly wondered if he was the target of a conspiracy. Defiantly, Duke Su declared he would not only attend the Yuedan Commentary but would make a grand appearance.

Meanwhile, Fu Rong sought out Liu Ru Yi, her master and owner of Ruyi Pavilion, hoping for assistance in gaining entry to the highly exclusive event. Liu Ru Yi agreed, but only on the condition that Fu Rong attend with her reliable older sister, Fu Xuan. Upon arriving at the bustling Ju Shui Pavilion, where a long line of ladies eagerly awaited entry, they encountered Qi Ce, the prosecutor of the Criminal Investigation Bureau.

Noticing Qi Ce's clear interest in Fu Xuan, Fu Rong discreetly stepped aside, allowing her sister and Qi Ce to converse and enter together. Once inside, Fu Rong wandered off alone. Her keen eye, however, spotted an anomaly: while the high ceilings were mostly covered in cobwebs, one particular wooden beam appeared conspicuously clean, suggesting recent activity. When she discreetly inquired, a maid explained that the ceiling was too high for daily cleaning and was only tackled annually with ladders.

As Wen Xing approached, Fu Rong quickly ducked into a corner to avoid detection. The crowd at Ju Shui Pavilion murmured as a distinguished man, Duke Su, made his entrance, his imposing aura drawing many admiring glances. Soon after, Mr. Ju Shui, wearing a mask, appeared to begin the commentary. A scholar named Shen Chen presented his poem, "A Tour in Gan Quan Temple," which Mr. Ju Shui praised for its impeccable imagery but ultimately rated as "second grade."

When guests questioned the low ranking, Mr. Ju Shui explained that while the poem had technical skill, it lacked "passion," unlike Duke Su's renowned work, "Crusade in the North." He elaborated on how Duke Su's poem, despite his military background, powerfully conveyed the plight of fallen soldiers, transporting the reader to the desert battlefield while invoking the scent of incense.

Suddenly, during the discussions, a servant severed a thin rope above, causing a large wooden beam to plummet directly towards Duke Su. Without hesitation, Fu Rong, who had been observing the clean beam, lunged forward and pushed Duke Su out of harm's way, sending them both tumbling to the ground. In the ensuing chaos, Duke Su instinctively held Fu Rong close, realizing his rescuer was the "little Taoist" from earlier.

Fu Rong, in turn, recognized him as the intimidating man she had encountered. As Duke Su was asked if he was alright, he muttered to himself about Fu Rong being a "jinx," while an assassin was apprehended. To make a quick exit from the chaotic scene, Fu Rong attempted to scale a wall. Mr. Ju Shui followed her and called out to her as she was perched precariously.

His voice triggered a childhood memory for Fu Rong of her father catching her in a similar act and calling her by her pet name, "Nong Nong." Startled by the sudden flashback, she lost her balance and fell. Mr. Ju Shui rushed forward to break her fall, becoming a human cushion in a moment that eerily mirrored her childhood memory. As he helped her up, he seemed to recognize her, quietly wondering if she was "Nong Nong."

He then discreetly directed her to a hidden path through a bamboo grove. Immediately after, Mr. Ju Shui sternly instructed Wen Xing to conduct a thorough investigation into the beam incident. He stressed that Ju Shui Pavilion maintained strict neutrality and would not tolerate any individuals with ulterior motives. He also specifically asked Wen Xing to discreetly gather information about the girl who had just left. Back home, Fu Rong immediately fell asleep, plunging into a vivid nightmare.

She saw herself in a red wedding dress, wearing the lotus-embroidered shoes her mother had made, with ominous red marks on her wrist. In the dream, someone lifted her veil, while voices around her branded her a "jinx," blaming her for her father's execution, her elder sister's difficult childbirth, and her younger brother's premature death. She awoke with a start. Her maid informed her that her father had returned.

At dinner, Fu Pin Yan recounted the incident at Ju Shui Pavilion, expressing relief that there were no casualties, though he noted the case was more complex than it appeared, as the fallen beam had nearly struck Duke Su. Fu Xuan added that it was clearly an assassination attempt. Fu Rong mused on the uncanny timing of the beam's fall, connecting it to her earlier premonitions.

She questioned why Duke Su, newly returned from years of campaigning, would be targeted so soon. Her father, however, dismissed it as a "royal affair" beyond their speculation. Fu Xuan observed Fu Rong's continued somber mood, prompting Fu Rong to ask if Fu Xuan had ever experienced events manifesting simply because she feared them. Despite Fu Xuan's assertion that such events were mere coincidences, Fu Rong insisted on being cautious.

She then hesitantly mentioned that the case was handed to the Criminal Investigation Bureau, and since Qi Ce was a prosecutor there, perhaps they could seek his help. Fu Xuan immediately cut her off, firmly stating that the case was none of their business.

Episode 2 Recap

Following the assassination attempt at Ju Shui Pavilion, Duke Su's subordinate, Xu Jia, reports that while the female accomplice escaped, Qi Ce, a prosecutor from the Criminal Investigation Bureau, has taken over the case—a strange move, as it should fall under the Hengjing County Magistrate's jurisdiction. They suspect the attack is linked to the army rations corruption case in Guanyan Town.

A month earlier, Duke Su had discovered his troops were being fed substandard food while fifteen carts of fine grain from the capital had vanished, leading him to execute the corrupt Imperial Guard Inspector, Qiu Gao Yi. The grain transport officer, Huo Xing, was also assassinated en route to the capital, indicating a ruthless mastermind is trying to silence all witnesses, with Duke Su being the final target.

Despite the danger, Duke Su is determined to expose the truth, not just for himself, but for the soldiers who bleed for the nation while corrupt officials prosper. Haunted by premonitions of a disastrous marriage to Duke Su, Fu Rong laments that every encounter with him brings bad luck. She resolves to find a way to avoid this fate.

At the Imperial Court, Duke An questions his nephews, the third prince Duke Cheng and the fifth prince Duke Huai, about Duke Su's absence. Duke Huai scornfully dismisses his half-brother Duke Su as a "sinner" who, instead of recuperating quietly, caused a stir at the Yuedan Commentary. Duke An rebukes him, clarifying that Qiu Gao Yi’s death was part of the rations investigation, a matter for the Emperor to decide.

The Emperor then arrives and, after announcing the retirement of the previous commander, appoints Duke Su as the new Commander of the Imperial Guards for three months, tasking him with investigating the rations case. Despite Duke Huai's objections, Duke Su accepts the position. Feeling persistently unlucky, Fu Rong finds Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, pays them for the Daoist costume she borrowed, and asks for a way to break a "terrible relationship."

They advise her to steal the person's undergarment and burn it. As she contemplates this, a procession announces the arrival of the new Commander of the Imperial Guards. To her horror, the man on horseback is Duke Su, the very "jinx" she needs to avoid. At the Imperial Guards barracks, Duke Su is met with blatant disrespect.

The soldiers are gambling, and Deputy Commander Liang Tong, reeking of alcohol, tries to humiliate him by forcing him to dismount far from the entrance. Duke Su complies but then systematically dismantles Liang Tong's authority, questioning his civilian attire, public drinking, and the hazardous placement of barricades. Producing a ledger, Duke Su exposes corruption, including a lame man listed as an active soldier, and accuses Liang Tong of betraying his duty.

Holding a blade to his throat, Duke Su declares that such conduct insults the soldiers fighting at the border and orders Liang Tong to be punished according to military law. Fu Rong slips into the chaotic barracks, witnessing Duke Su expose a servant attempting to answer roll call for his master. The real soldier, Wu Baiqi—Imperial Guards Lieutenant and son of Lord Xindu—appears and arrogantly challenges Duke Su's authority.

The two engage in a fierce duel, first with spears and then hand-to-hand. Wu Baiqi lands a blow on Duke Su's pre-existing chest wound, but Duke Su still overpowers and defeats him. Humbled, Wu Baiqi concedes. With his wound reopened, Duke Su goes to his quarters to bathe. Fu Rong seizes the opportunity, sneaking in to steal his undergarment from a clothes rack. The ever-vigilant Duke Su senses her and ensnares her with his robe.

Xu Jia recognizes her from the Yuedan Commentary and accuses her of being an accomplice. Fu Rong frantically explains she is the second daughter of the Hengjing County Magistrate and was only trying to steal his garment to break a curse as advised by a "master." Unconvinced, Duke Su orders her father to be summoned to retrieve her. At the Fu residence, a maid informs Fu Xuan that Fu Rong is in trouble.

Fu Xuan immediately takes her father's official token and goes to the barracks. She finds a frustrated Fu Rong and a sullen Wu Baiqi. When Wu Baiqi dismisses her as another privileged young lady, Fu Xuan astutely turns his own reputation against him, questioning how an Imperial Guard unit led by a known profligate could be trusted to investigate corruption when they can't even ascertain a woman's identity before tying her up.

Presenting her father's token, she pressures Wu Baiqi, who, captivated by her wit and beauty, relents and lets them go. Before they leave, he asks for her name, and she replies, "Fu Xuan." Back at his residence, Duke Su is informed that Fu Rong has been released. He decides to keep her under observation.

Reminded of the Emperor's three-month deadline, he recounts the grim details of the rations case: how his soldiers nearly starved because their provisions were replaced with pebbles and husks, reinforcing his resolve to find justice. Meanwhile, at Ju Shui Pavilion, Master Wen learns that the woman who saved Duke Su was Fu Rong, daughter of Fu Pin Yan, who was promoted from Jizhou.

The name "Jizhou" startles him, making him wonder if she could be the "Nong Nong" from his past. He immediately orders a carriage to visit the Fu residence. There, Fu Pin Yan, aware of the incident, furiously chases Fu Rong with a ruler. Just as he corners her, Master Ju Shui arrives and shields her from the blow. He explains his visit by claiming Fu Rong broke his jade pendant at the Yuedan Commentary.

As compensation, he proposes she serve as a study aide at Ju Shui Pavilion for one month. After her mother points out that becoming Master Ju Shui's "unofficial disciple" would elevate Fu Rong's social status and aid her betrothal to Earl Yan, her father gratefully accepts the prestigious offer. On the day of her departure, Qi Ce arrives to invite both sisters to view cliff carvings. With Fu Rong committed to Ju Shui Pavilion, only Fu Xuan can accept.

Upon arriving at the elegant pavilion, Fu Rong is met by a stern Master Wen, who warns her to stay out of forbidden areas and not ask prying questions, setting strict boundaries for her new role.

Episode 3 Recap

Following an internal investigation to purge the Imperial Guards of underperformers, the remaining marquis and young noblemen, most of whom are dedicated to serving the country, show great potential. With proper training, they promise to transform the Imperial Guards. Meanwhile, Wu Baiqi continues his punishment for allowing Fu Rong to leave. Despite having already run with heavy stones for an hour, he remains defiant, declaring his determination to one day defeat Xu Jin. He then heads to Western Hill.

At Ju Shui Pavilion, Fu Rong, eager to escape her duties, claims she needs to buy "fresh" paper. Mr. Ju Shui eventually permits her to go. She meets her sister, Fu Xuan, on Western Hill but quickly grows bored with the arduous journey to see stone inscriptions on the mountaintop. Noting Fu Rong's fatigue, Fu Xuan suggests she return to the pavilion.

Fu Rong agrees, arranging to meet her sister later at Ruyi Pavilion, where Fu Xuan is needed to provide calligraphy for a new product line. In the forest, Xu Jin and his attendants are ambushed. As he fights, an arrow from Wu Baiqi strikes down an assassin from behind. Moments later, Xu Jin kicks a blade to save Wu Baiqi from another attacker, evening the score. As the assassins retreat, Xu Jin spots a fleeing figure and gives chase alone.

Left behind, Wu Baiqi discovers an order flag made of high-quality fabric hidden beneath a dead assassin's body. As Fu Rong makes her way back, she is intercepted by Xu Jin, who mistakenly believes she is connected to the assassins. Their encounter leads to him getting caught in two hunter's traps. Infuriated, he chases her to a riverbank, where she boards a bamboo raft.

To her surprise, the boatman is Mr. Ju Shui, who skillfully deflects stones Xu Jin hurls at them. Later, when Fu Rong complains about the incident, Mr. Ju Shui defends Xu Jin, calling him a brilliant general and telling her to focus on her calligraphy. At Ruyi Pavilion, Qi Ce confesses his long-held affection for Fu Xuan and his desire to marry her.

Acknowledging her gentle rebuke that his proposal is too private, he promises to send a matchmaker to her family. Shortly after, Wen Xing delivers a message to Fu Xuan, informing her that Fu Rong has returned safely to Ju Shui Pavilion. Meanwhile, the owner of Ruyi Pavilion, Ms. Liu, unveils her stunning new hairpin designs and asks Fu Xuan to create a calligraphic piece to endorse them. Qi Ce formally proposes to the Fu family.

Lord Fu readily approves, praising Qi Ce's character and their families' long-standing acquaintance. Fu Xuan calmly accepts the arrangement, telling Fu Rong that she "doesn't dislike him." However, Fu Rong remains deeply suspicious of Qi Ce's character. Needing funds to investigate him, she enlists two acquaintances, Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, to sell a stone from Mr. Ju Shui's garden, hoping its connection to the famous scholar will fetch a high price.

Mr. Ju Shui discovers her scheme but permits her to take the stone. Later, Xu Jin visits the pavilion, intending to question Fu Rong about a previous incident involving a falling beam. Mr. Ju Shui intervenes, defending Fu Rong as his assistant and firmly asking Xu Jin to leave. Xu Jin’s attendant reports that the assassin’s flag was made of fabric from Zhi Yun Workshop, a supplier to the elite.

This connects the assassins to Liang Tong, the Deputy Commander who also wears their fabric, suggesting a single mastermind. Xu Jin orders an investigation into the workshop. To avoid suspicion in the female-dominated shop, his attendant disguises himself as a woman. By creating a loud scene, he distracts the owner, allowing another guard to steal the order list. The list reveals several large orders placed by Qi Ce.

Further investigation uncovers that Qi Ce's career advanced significantly after he met Marquis Xindu, leading Xu Jin to ponder the connection. Fu Rong learns from Xiao Ba that Qi Ce was recently seen at the Drunken Spring Court, a house of ill repute. Convinced he is a hypocrite, she worries for her sister. She has her maid, Lan Xiang, impersonate her while she scales the wall to return home.

Mr. Ju Shui, aware of her departure, subtly aids her by having a ladder placed near the wall. At home, Fu Rong’s concerns are dismissed by her parents as childish. Soon after, Zhang Yan, Marquis Xindu's second son, visits. He brings her medicine and offers her a pair of jade pendants, which she politely declines.

As Qi Ce's sister, Qi Zhu, is having her engagement banquet the next day, Fu Rong decides to buy her a gift, and Zhang Yan accompanies her. At Ruyi Pavilion, they meet Qi Zhu, who is trying on hairpins. Fu Rong encourages her to choose a more elaborate dowry gift. In a private conversation, Fu Rong asks if Qi Ce truly loves Fu Xuan.

Qi Zhu passionately confirms his long-standing devotion, explaining that his relentless ambition has always been driven by the desire to be worthy of proposing to her. That night, Fu Rong returns to Ju Shui Pavilion and uses the conveniently placed ladder to re-enter. Hungry, she sneaks into the kitchen to find food, only to be startled by Mr. Ju Shui's presence. As she tries to excuse herself, he stops her, calling out, "Hold on!"

Episode 4 Recap

Red silk banners adorned the Qi Residence, heralding the joyous occasion of Qi Zhu's betrothal ceremony, with Qi Ce bustling to greet guests. Fu Rong and Fu Xuan arrived to offer their congratulations. As Qi Ce was attending to them, Qin Qing’s sudden appearance and greeting caused his face to darken instantly. Noticing this tense exchange, Fu Rong quietly followed Qi Ce.

She found Qi Ce's room, but before she could investigate, Xu Jin suddenly appeared, pulling her up to hide in the rafters. Moments later, Qi Ce entered roughly, followed by Qin Qing, forcing Fu Rong and Xu Jin to remain silent and listen intently. Qin Qing, acting on her master's orders, pressed Qi Ce about the assassination attempts on Duke Su, Xu Jin.

She pointed out his three consecutive failures since Duke Su's return to the capital—at the West Hills and Ju Shui Pavilion—and reminded him that his master wanted him to act swiftly before Xu Jin could gain the support of court officials and influential families. Qi Ce, however, refused to discuss the matter further, unwilling to spoil his sister Qi Zhu's betrothal ceremony. He promised to meet Qin Qing the next day with a satisfactory plan for their master.

Fu Rong then realized that Qi Ce's previous encounters with her sister Fu Xuan, at the cliff carvings and Ju Shui Pavilion, were merely pretexts for his assassination plots. As she reeled from the revelation, she stumbled on the rafters, but Xu Jin swiftly descended, catching her and landing gently. After a brief, close moment, they quickly separated, and Fu Rong hurried away.

Fu Rong found Qi Zhu, who remained blissfully unaware of her brother's sinister activities, still believing him to be a devoted, father-like figure. Fu Rong kept the dark secret to herself, wishing only for Qi Zhu to be happy and enter her marriage without worry. At the Imperial Guards camp, Xu Jin reviewed a list of guests who left the banquet early.

Two officials were dismissed as unsuspicious, but a woman named Qin Qing, the proprietress of Drunken Spring Court brothel, stood out. She had been seen freely entering the Zhi Yun Workshop, an establishment exclusive to nobles, raising suspicion that Qi Ce was using her and her brothel for his covert operations. For now, Xu Jin decided to observe and wait for the right moment to force their hand, as they lacked concrete evidence.

Just then, Wu Baiqi arrived, having decided on his reward for saving Xu Jin: an archery contest. He proposed his terms: if he won, he would no longer need to bow to Xu Jin, be punished for tardiness, or ask for leave. If he lost, he would undertake any dangerous mission. Xu Jin confidently accepted. Wu Baiqi shot first, impressively hitting the bullseye on his initial attempt and declaring his remaining two arrows unnecessary.

Xu Jin then drew three arrows, firing them in such quick succession that they seemed like a single shot. The final arrow landed dead center in the bullseye, having split his own two preceding arrows perfectly in half. Humbled by Xu Jin's exceptional skill, Wu Baiqi conceded defeat. Xu Jin's request, however, was not for a life-threatening task but for Wu Baiqi to cause a disruption at Drunken Spring Court.

Surprised but honored by the trust placed in him for such a critical mission, Wu Baiqi readily accepted. Meanwhile, Wen Xing arrived at Ju Shui Pavilion to summon Fu Rong, only to discover she had slipped out. Fu Rong, disguised as a man, had gone to Drunken Spring Court to gather information on Qi Ce. Inside, she was swarmed by courtesans before demanding the most expensive one, Ya Le.

However, she was plied with wine and passed out before extracting any useful information. In contrast, Wu Baiqi adeptly created a commotion by throwing money around and picking fights, providing the perfect cover for Xu Jin to investigate. Xu Jin moved discreetly through the establishment and discovered that Qin Qing used a hairpin, placed in small holes in her window frame, as a secret signal.

After his reconnaissance, Xu Jin found the heavily intoxicated Fu Rong clinging to him and rambling, calling Duke Su a "petty, annoying ghost." Xu Jin swept her into his arms and carried her out of the brothel, taking secluded paths back to the Fu Residence. During the journey, Fu Rong continued her drunken antics, declaring her intention to change the fates of her sister and Duke Su.

She then mistook Xu Jin for the courtesan Ya Le, questioning his "Adam's apple," before realizing who he was and resuming her insults, prompting Xu Jin to repeatedly threaten to drop her. Fu Xuan, having learned from Ju Shui Pavilion that her sister had gone to a brothel in disguise, rushed to Drunken Spring Court. There, she encountered Wu Baiqi in the middle of his feigned chaos. Outside, Wu Baiqi's attempt to explain himself devolved into bickering.

He teased Fu Xuan, suggesting she was there to "catch Qi Ce," but she deftly turned the tables, implying his disparaging words stemmed from jealousy, as if he harbored feelings for her. Wu Baiqi was left speechless as Fu Xuan hurried off to find her sister. On her way, Fu Xuan was startled to see a man carrying Fu Rong, but was relieved to recognize him as Duke Su.

Xu Jin gently handed the unconscious Fu Rong to her, explaining that he had used quiet paths to avoid notice and that he understood her sister's actions were born of concern for Fu Xuan's marriage. As he departed, Fu Xuan was left wondering about his unusual care for Fu Rong. Back at the camp, a still-fuming Wu Baiqi returned from his verbal defeat, but Xu Jin quickly refocused him by revealing his findings.

He explained Qin Qing's hairpin signal, which was visible from a second-floor room in the Happiness Restaurant across the street. Xu Jin ordered one guard to monitor the restaurant and follow anyone who appeared after the signal was given. He then tasked Wu Baiqi, with his familiarity of the area, to keep a close watch on Drunken Spring Court itself. Despite his earlier frustration, Wu Baiqi accepted the important assignment.

Xu Jin then invited him for a drink, but Wu Baiqi's subordinate, Ge Chuan, reminded them of his duties the next day. Wu Baiqi ultimately agreed to postpone their drink, promising to join him another time.

Episode 5 Recap

Following the raid on their operations, Qi Ce and Qin Qing knelt before a furious Marquis Xindu. Enraged that their secret organization had been compromised without his knowledge, the Marquis kicked Qi Ce and demanded an explanation. Qi Ce, insisting he had been cautious, speculated that Duke Su might be responsible. Scornful of Qi Ce's incompetence, the Marquis threatened to destroy him if the organization collapsed.

After Qin Qing pleaded for Qi Ce's life, the Marquis questioned why they hadn't sought help from the omniscient Ruyi Pavilion. Qi Ce explained that the Pavilion, which typically initiated contact, had been silent for some time. The Marquis gave them five days to resolve the assassination plot against Duke Su, warning that failure would endanger not only Qi Ce but also his sister, Qi Zhu.

Realizing the deadline was impossible, Qin Qing urged Qi Ce to flee the capital with his sister to survive, suggesting they could return if an opportunity arose. Agreeing to meet her outside the city, Qi Ce went to his sister. He lied that her wedding was postponed due to the groom's sudden illness and proposed they take a trip with their mother, an outing he claimed he had long wanted.

Meanwhile, at the Fu Residence, Fu Rong brought Fu Xuan special dates as a peace offering, apologizing for her past behavior but struggling to convince her sister of Qi Ce's duplicity without proof. Her chance came when her informants, Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, reported that Qi Ce was at Drunken Spring Court. Fu Rong implored Fu Xuan to go with her to witness Qi Ce’s true character, stressing that it concerned her future happiness.

Fu Xuan reluctantly agreed, warning this was the last time she would indulge Fu Rong's schemes. At Drunken Spring Court, Qin Qing was packing for their escape when Qi Ce burst in, having been summoned by a mysterious note. They instantly knew they had been lured into a trap. Outside, Fu Rong dragged Fu Xuan to the door, loudly calling for Qi Ce. As they arrived, a blade shot through a crack in the door, aimed at Fu Rong.

Xu Jin, who was lying in wait, pulled her into his arms. To maintain the pretense of a simple ambush on a cheating lover, he protectively called her "Rong'er". Ignoring the bizarre situation, Fu Rong slapped the stunned Qi Ce. He immediately tried to explain the "misunderstanding" to Fu Xuan, but she, having seen the danger and deceit, coldly announced that her family had misjudged him and that she was severing all ties with him.

As Xu Jin escorted the sisters away, he mockingly remarked to Qi Ce that beauty can lead a man astray. Later, Fu Rong explained to Xu Jin that based on her earlier eavesdropping and the presence of armed men, Drunken Spring Court was clearly Qi Ce's secret base. Fu Rong then begged Xu Jin to spare Qi Ce's innocent sister and mother, and he assured her no innocent person would be implicated.

When she asked about Qi Ce's fate, Xu Jin stated that attempting to assassinate a prince was a capital crime, especially since he was the target, and Fu Rong conceded that she could not interfere. Convinced of Qi Ce’s treachery, Fu Xuan later asked Fu Rong about her connection to Xu Jin, noting he seemed to treat her "specially." Fu Rong deflected, saying he was only "specially fierce" towards her.

Back at Drunken Spring Court, Qi Ce and Qin Qing's suspicions of a setup were confirmed when a subordinate reported that the street vendors hadn't actually fled but had merely relocated to a nearby market. Realizing their cover was blown, Qi Ce ordered Qin Qing to gather their men to escape that night, abandoning his plan to use medicine on Fu Xuan for another time.

Elsewhere, the young marquis Xu Mao offered Fu Xuan his "condolences" for her broken engagement, which Fu Rong sharply corrected, stating that an engagement being called off was not the same as losing a husband. That night, as Qi Ce and Qin Qing tried to flee Drunken Spring Court, they were surrounded by Xu Jin's forces. Declaring their ruse exposed, Xu Jin ordered their arrest, and Qi Ce was taken to prison.

Xu Jin then reported to the Emperor, detailing three assassination attempts and revealing the mastermind was Qi Ce, a prosecutor from the Criminal Investigation Bureau. The Emperor was shocked a mere prosecutor would be so bold, but Xu Jin suggested a larger conspiracy connected to the military ration corruption case in Guanyan Town. The Emperor granted Xu Jin full authority to investigate but warned him to secure irrefutable evidence for every action.

He then urged Xu Jin to visit his birth mother, Consort Shu. During the visit, Consort Shu offered Xu Jin tea from his childhood home and his favorite hibiscus pastries. Their reunion was interrupted by Xu Jin’s younger brother, Xu Hao, who criticized him for neglecting their mother. Consort Shu defended Xu Jin, explaining that he was sent away at a young age after being deemed to have a cursed destiny following the Empress’s death.

At his residence, Marquis Xindu learned of Qi Ce's arrest from Xu Mao. Fearing Qi Ce would expose the military ration scandal, Xu Mao suggested having him killed in prison. The Marquis dismissed the idea, noting that with Qin Qing having just committed suicide, another death would be too suspicious. He remained confident he could control Qi Ce but stressed that securing Consort Duan's help was now critical to their plans.

Meanwhile, at her family's bamboo house, Qi Zhu was caring for her bedridden mother when a servant brought news of her brother's arrest. Due to the family's association with Qi Ce, Fu Xuan decided to retreat to Yunluo Temple for meditation to escape gossip, planning to leave after Fu Rong had arranged for Qi Zhu's care.

Later, while on her way to deliver paintings to Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Xuan's maid bumped into a servant from the rival shop, Feng Lai Yi, and their scrolls were accidentally swapped. The servant, Bi Yu, quickly realized the mistake due to the different scroll designs and returned the correct paintings, assuring them they had not been opened. At the Qi Residence, Qi Zhu found that the First Madam had confiscated her entire dowry.

Desperate to bribe the prison guards to see her brother, she begged for just two items back. When the Madam callously refused, Fu Rong intervened, threatening legal action if the dowry was not returned by nightfall. In the prison, Qi Zhu found a bloodied and disfigured Qi Ce. Tearfully, she thanked Fu Rong for making the visit possible.

Qi Ce reacted with bitter laughter, accusing Fu Rong and Fu Xuan of hypocrisy, claiming they used the engagement to provide cover for Xu Jin and orchestrate his downfall. He furiously condemned them for the Qi family's ruin and warned a naive Qi Zhu that they would lead her to the same fate. Shaken, Qi Zhu began to distance herself from Fu Rong. Tragically, her chronically ill mother, overwhelmed by grief and the strain of travel, passed away.

In her final moments, Qi Zhu had tried to comfort her by lying that Qi Ce would be released soon and they would all attend her wedding together. After her mother died, a devastated Qi Zhu furiously pushed Fu Rong away, accusing her and her sister of destroying her family.

Despite Fu Rong's remorseful apologies and explanation that she only ever meant to protect her own sister, the grief-stricken Qi Zhu refused to listen and demanded she leave and never be seen again.

Episode 6 Recap

In his prison cell, Qi Ce received an ultimatum from Marquis Xindu, delivered via messenger. The message recounted that Consort Duan, Duke Cheng's mother, had been deeply moved by Qi Zhu's filial act of kowtowing at every step while praying for her own mother. As a result, Consort Duan had taken Qi Zhu into the palace as a companion, and the Emperor, praising her piety, conferred upon her the title of Princess Consort of Qingping.

The messenger made it clear that Qi Zhu's new fortune depended on Qi Ce's cooperation. Left with no other option, Qi Ce feigned madness, screaming his intention to confess before swallowing the paper message. Duke Su later received Qi Ce's confession, which stated Qi Ce was blinded by greed, allied with Drunken Spring Court, and misused his position to exploit officials and merchants.

The confession also claimed Qi Ce repeatedly tried to assassinate Duke Su out of fear after learning of his return to the capital. However, Duke Su found this illogical, questioning how Qi Ce could have known he would be appointed Lieutenant of the Imperial Guards. He demanded to interrogate Qi Ce in person, only to be informed that Qi Ce had died the previous day by striking his head against a wall.

Duke Su realized that with Qi Ce's death, the lead was cut off. He noted the intricate connections: Qi Zhu was now with Consort Duan, who was Duke Cheng's mother and the sister of Marquis Xindu's late wife. He questioned the Emperor's timing in allowing this. His aide reminded him that the Emperor's apparent support for his investigation was actually a veiled warning to be cautious.

Recalling his master General Dou Yan’s words about being surrounded by enemies in the capital, Duke Su affirmed his resolve to seek justice for the soldiers who suffered from corruption. He then dispatched his aide to locate the new Princess Consort of Qingping, Qi Zhu. Qi Zhu, feeling her newfound status was meaningless without her family, walked into a lake to end her life. Duke Su, who had been searching for her, swiftly intervened and pulled her from the water.

Fu Rong soon arrived and urged Qi Zhu not to trust Consort Duan, fearing they would exploit her. Qi Zhu, however, defiantly asserted her new status and accused Fu Rong of being afraid now that Qi Zhu had powerful allies, noting that Consort Duan was also Prince Yan's aunt and connected to the Xindu Residence. Coldly, Qi Zhu declared their friendship over, stating they should act as strangers if they ever met again.

Afterwards, Duke Su revealed to Fu Rong that at age twelve, he was sent to the frontier by his father after accidentally starting a fire at Hong Fu Temple while praying for his critically ill mother, the late empress, who passed away around that time. He admitted he preferred the desolate frontier to the capital. Noticing the chilly wind, Duke Su suggested they head back.

In a small pavilion, Lan Xiang observed Wen Xing strangely talking to the goldfish in the lake. When she discovered him, Wen Xing sternly warned her to keep it a secret. Later, Fu Rong found Wen Xing skillfully embroidering. He revealed that he had learned the skill out of necessity during his homeless childhood, sewing scraps of cloth into clothes for warmth until Mr. Ju Shui took him in.

He described his early life as difficult but added that his master, Mr. Ju Shui, had suffered even more. Later, while Fu Rong was skipping stones on a lake to lift her somber mood, Mr. Ju Shui approached and asked to be taught. After Fu Rong demonstrated, he threw a stone and inadvertently killed Wen Xing's favorite goldfish, Little Fat.

Determined not to let the fish go to waste, Fu Rong later presented Wen Xing with its bones, explaining that the kitchen had prepared an exceptionally fresh fish that she suspected was Little Fat. At Duke Su's Residence, Princess of Xihe Cui Wan arrived, confidently proclaiming she was Duke Su's childhood sweetheart.

However, Duke Su's attendants, including Xu Jia, skillfully used various excuses—from Duke Su recuperating from severe wounds to a physician's warning about a woman's "cold nature" affecting his recovery—to prevent Cui Wan from seeing him. After she reluctantly left, Xu Jia clarified to another servant that Duke Su had no childhood sweetheart from the capital, as he had spent his youth on the frontier. Meanwhile, at Feng Lai Yi, Wu Baiqi observed the thriving business.

He instructed the shopkeeper, Mr. Ji, to send the previous month's profits to his residence to cover his recent purchase of expensive horses and reminded him to also send his aunt's monthly allowance to the palace. Feng Lai Yi launched new products promoted with four exquisite paintings. Shortly after, Bi Yu, an associate, informed Wu Baiqi that Ruyi Pavilion had released new products with strikingly similar paintings. He accused Fu Xuan, known for her scholarly background, of plagiarism.

Wu Baiqi, furious, marched to Ruyi Pavilion to confront her. Fu Xuan, angered by the accusation, asserted she had drawn the paintings herself and challenged them to a debate. Feng Lai Yi's artist offered a nonsensical interpretation of his work. In contrast, Fu Xuan eloquently explained her series, "In the Zap of Youth," which depicted the progression of beauty through life, and presented her detailed drafts as proof.

Humbled, Wu Baiqi conceded defeat, announced Feng Lai Yi would withdraw their paintings, and agreed to share half their profits from the new products with Ruyi Pavilion, promising a formal apology for his rudeness. Back at Duke Su's Residence, a humiliated Wu Baiqi was drowning his sorrows in wine. As he sorted through documents, he became agitated and accidentally spilled wine on them.

Duke Su entered at that moment and noticed an unusual ink pattern bleeding through from a paper underneath the wet spot. Elsewhere, Duke Cheng was agitated, having lost his military supply funding. He had found a gold mine but couldn't acquire explosives, and the mysterious Ruyi Pavilion was unreachable. As he voiced his frustrations, a silver hairpin with a folded paper message was suddenly flung across the room, pinning itself to his tea table.

In his pavilion, Mr. Ju Shui sat before a chessboard, lamenting that his mother had promised to reappear if he broke the chess formation but had never returned. Suddenly, Queen Dowager Wen appeared. Removing his mask to reveal a tear-streaked face, Mr. Ju Shui acknowledged his loss in their game. His identity was revealed: he was Duke An, Xu Ping, the Queen Dowager's son. She softly noted his continued avoidance of bright lights stemmed from her own light sensitivity.

Mentioning the beautiful lanterns from a few days prior and the "beautiful girl" associated with them, she urged him to live a good life for himself. Overcome with emotion, he cried out for his mother. Later, Fu Rong found the despondent Mr. Ju Shui and insisted on taking him to release wish lanterns.

She wrote his wish, "Hope Mr. Ju Shui can see his mother again," on a large lantern, contrasting it with her own small wish for more pocket money. When his lantern got stuck on a rock, Fu Rong waded into the water to free it, determined that his wish should not be hindered.

As Fu Rong's month serving as his book-boy ended, Mr. Ju Shui offered her a gift: a challenge to remove his mask, something he never allowed anyone to touch. Though initially hesitant, Fu Rong's daring nature took over, and she moved to accept.

Episode 7 Recap

Mr. Ju Shui removed his mask, revealing a familiar face. He called out to Fu Rong, using her childhood name, Nong Nong. Fu Rong immediately recognized him as her "little follower" from their childhood, playfully accusing him of having tricked her all these years about his stone-skipping skills. Mr. Ju Shui admitted he had wanted to tell her earlier but had his reasons for keeping it a secret.

Despite his fame, he promised to always remain her little follower, assuring her that the gates of his Ju Shui Pavilion would forever be open to her. Soon after, back at the Fu Residence, Gu Yuan, a servant from Ruyi Pavilion, frantically rushed in. She informed Fu Rong that their boss, Liu Ru Yi, had been arrested and imprisoned in the imperial storehouse jail.

The accusation was that Liu Ru Yi had committed an act of disrespect by creating a peony head ornament for Consort Shu, unaware that Consort Shu despised peonies. Gu Yuan explained that the Imperial Wardrobe Service typically commissioned such work from Feng Lai Yi. The sudden decision to commission Ruyi Pavilion this time seemed suspicious.

Liu Ru Yi had agreed to the commission hoping to forge a good relationship with the Imperial Wardrobe Service, specifically telling Gu Yuan not to inform Fu Rong due to her general aversion to palace affairs. Fu Rong's sister, Fu Xuan, also expressed suspicion, noting that the incident with Ruyi Pavilion happened right after Feng Lai Yi's plagiarism scandal had subsided. Fu Rong went to Feng Lai Yi, where she encountered Wu Baiqi.

He initially assumed she was there to demand an apology for the previous plagiarism incident. Fu Rong clarified that she was there to inquire about the Ruyi Pavilion situation. Wu Baiqi confirmed their business was thriving after he replaced most of the staff. Fu Rong then pressed him on why the Imperial Wardrobe Service had chosen Ruyi Pavilion over Feng Lai Yi. Wu Baiqi appeared genuinely surprised to learn about Liu Ru Yi's imprisonment and the reason behind it.

He became defensive when Fu Rong implied he might have colluded with his aunt, Consort Duan, to sabotage Ruyi Pavilion, vehemently denying any involvement in such a scheme. Later, Wu Baiqi visited Consort Duan in the palace and questioned her about the Imperial Wardrobe Service’s decision. Consort Duan denied any knowledge or involvement, claiming she had little interaction with Consort Shu and that Consort Shu might have specifically requested against using Feng Lai Yi.

She refused to intercede for Liu Ru Yi, stating it would be counterproductive given her distant relationship with Consort Shu. Meanwhile, Earl Yan attempted to seek his mother's help, hoping she could persuade Consort Duan to intervene on Liu Ru Yi’s behalf. However, his mother firmly refused, reminding him that Consort Duan was the sister of his late father's first wife, not a close relative to her, and certainly not an ally.

She emphasized that Consort Shu was deeply offended, and Dong Fang Li, being Consort Shu's brother, would naturally seek retribution. She accused Fu Rong of attempting to exploit their family’s influence and warned Earl Yan to distance himself from her affairs. Earl Yan returned to Fu Rong, disheartened, admitting his inability to help and reiterating his mother’s advice to sever ties with Liu Ru Yi. Fu Rong firmly rejected his counsel.

Ornaments Attendant Chen of the Imperial Wardrobe Service visited Dong Fang Li at the imperial storehouse jail. He subtly implied that using torture would expedite Liu Ru Yi's confession. However, Dong Fang Li, a man of integrity, firmly refused, stating he would not make a hasty judgment and would bear sole responsibility for any blame from the palace. Later, Ornaments Attendant Chen reported back to Consort Duan, expressing frustration that Dong Fang Li refused to comply.

Consort Duan lamented that her intricate plan—to use Liu Ru Yi's potential death to have the Third Prince implicate Consort Shu and Duke Su—had failed due to Dong Fang Li's stubbornness. Nevertheless, she expressed satisfaction that Ruyi Pavilion would be shut down, eliminating a business competitor for Feng Lai Yi. She strictly warned Ornaments Attendant Chen not to divulge any details of their scheme to Wu Baiqi.

In a desperate bid to save her master, Fu Rong intercepted Dong Fang Li's carriage. She pleaded with him regarding Liu Ru Yi’s case, arguing that Liu Ru Yi might have unknowingly violated a taboo. Dong Fang Li remained steadfast, stating he would investigate thoroughly and make his judgment based on law. Undeterred, Fu Rong knelt outside the Dong Residence from dusk till dawn until she eventually collapsed from exhaustion.

Xu Jin later arrived, revealed his familial ties to Dong Fang Li as his nephew, and criticized Fu Rong for her reckless behavior. Fu Rong, now inside the residence, insisted on seeing Dong Fang Li, convinced that her master had been framed. Xu Jin, though skeptical of her ability to change the outcome, ordered his attendant Xu Jia to escort her back to the Fu Residence for her own good.

Xu Jin then engaged in a private conversation with Dong Fang Li. He presented a small wooden squirrel as a gift for Dong Fang Li’s frail son, Dong Wen. Xu Jin then steered the conversation to Liu Ru Yi’s case, revealing that Fu Rong had once saved his life but emphasizing that the debt had been repaid, allowing Dong Fang Li to handle the case impartially.

Dong Fang Li admitted he didn't know the reason behind his sister's dislike for peonies. Xu Jin then revealed the painful truth: Consort Shu, then an imperial concubine, had once adored peonies. However, during a tragic incident, the late Empress had cruelly mocked her and taken young Xu Jin away, leaving her heartbroken. Since that day, Consort Shu had developed a profound aversion to peonies.

Given the circumstances, Xu Jin proposed that Ruyi Pavilion be given a chance to atone for the offense by creating a new piece that would genuinely please Consort Shu. Dong Fang Li agreed. Shortly after, Wu Baiqi arrived, seeking to speak with Dong Fang Li about Liu Ru Yi. Xu Jin seized the opportunity, asking Wu Baiqi to convey a message to "Young Lady Fu Rong": she should focus on crafting a satisfactory piece of jewelry for Consort Shu.

However, upon arriving at the Fu Residence, Wu Baiqi mistakenly delivered the message to Fu Xuan. Back at Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Rong struggled to find inspiration for the new design. Mr. Ju Shui visited, bringing an array of vibrant flowers. Fu Rong, realizing he was the "mysterious helper" her sister had mentioned, expressed her gratitude. He warned her about placing a candle too close to her drawings, to which she playfully retorted that she wasn't Duke Su.

She casually mentioned that Duke Su had once told her about accidentally knocking over a candle at Hong Fu Temple, causing a devastating fire and his subsequent banishment. Duke An, as Mr. Ju Shui, visibly reacted to this information. As he prepared to leave, Gu Yuan accidentally caught a glimpse of his unmasked face, and he asked her to keep his identity a secret.

Later, in Ju Shui Pavilion, Duke An grieved on the anniversary of his mother, Consort Dowager Wen’s, death. He recalled the cruel rumors that had plagued his mother, who was born with anisocoria, proclaiming her a "disaster star." He recounted how the official story was that Hong Fu Temple burned down due to age and disrepair, but Fu Rong had just inadvertently disclosed that Xu Jin was responsible for the fire.

He wondered if Ruyi Pavilion, known for uncovering secrets, could reveal the real truth about his mother's death and identify all those present during the incident. His subordinate vowed to investigate. Fu Rong, engrossed in her creative process, finally had a breakthrough. She designed a stunning dangling ornament, meticulously crafted with fine gold threads around a delicate white flower, making it appear strikingly lifelike. Fu Xuan marveled at its beauty, but Fu Rong felt it lacked a natural fragrance.

She theorized about infusing scents into the silver. Fu Xuan, recalling her readings in the "Hengjing Annals of Geography," remembered a unique flower field in Yu Shan known for its rare floral species. Leaving a note, Fu Rong set out alone for Yu Shan. Upon learning of her solitary journey from Gu Yuan, Duke An immediately expressed concern and departed to follow her. He found Fu Rong struggling to locate the flower field and guided her, confident they would find it by following the water's edge.

Episode 8 Recap

Fu Rong, guided by Mr. Ju Shui, found a beautiful flower field, which brought a look of joy to her face. Suddenly, a snake lunged from a tree, and Mr. Ju Shui was bitten while shielding her, falling unconscious. While unresponsive, he dreamt of his mother, Queen Dowager Wen, and the pain of their separation.

He recalled her promise that solving a chess puzzle would reunite them, but upon completing it, he was cruelly met with the news of her death. Waking from the nightmare, still shaken, Mr. Ju Shui gradually recovered, allowing a relieved Fu Rong to depart. Returning to Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Rong immersed herself in her work. After she burned her hand with melted gold, an unknown person left cooling cream outside her door.

Later, when heavy rain prevented her from leaving, an umbrella was placed by the door, evidence that someone was silently watching over her. Consort Shu’s Guang Yang Palace received several visitors. Xu Jin arrived first, followed by Dong Fang Li, and finally Fu Rong, who presented a newly crafted dangling ornament. The piece, named "Sunny Bright," captured the essence of spring with a subtle floral fragrance sealed within the silver.

Delighted, Consort Shu offered a reward, which Fu Rong declined, revealing her true purpose: to plead for her master, Liu Ru Yi. Consort Shu was surprised, admitting she knew nothing of Liu Ru Yi’s imprisonment. It was her handmaiden, Zhi Hui, who, fearing the peony motif would displease Consort Shu, had rejected Ruyi Pavilion’s previous headwear on her own accord. Recognizing it as a misunderstanding, Consort Shu instructed her brother, Dong Fang Li, to release Liu Ru Yi.

Xu Jin, who had been observing from behind a curtain, smiled subtly at the outcome. Fu Rong then shared her vision for Ruyi Pavilion: to create jewelry that could bring joy to both nobility and commoners alike. Meanwhile, Wen Xing purchased the stone bearing the inscription "Farmer Ju Shui" for Duke An. Duke An explained that the character for "farmer" was a homophone for "Nong Nong," revealing his desire to cherish and protect Fu Rong.

Outside the imperial treasury, Fu Rong and Fu Xuan eagerly awaited Liu Ru Yi’s release. After helping her step over a brazier to ward off bad luck, they spotted Wu Baiqi nearby. Realizing he was not involved in her master's imprisonment, Fu Xuan stayed behind to apologize for her previous misunderstanding. Wu Baiqi, in turn, presented her with a set of exquisite stationery as his own apology for having wrongly accused her of plagiarism.

Admiring the gift, Fu Xuan resolved to journey to Mount Yunluo for a period of meditation. Duke An exchanged two of Huang Ze's Twelve Folding Fans of Shu for secrets from Ruyi Pavilion, seeking to uncover the truth behind the Hong Fu Temple fire. The information he received suggested the Emperor knew Xu Jin had caused the fire and had sent him to the border as a cover-up. Duke An realized he now needed to find witnesses from that time.

He also discovered that when the secret letter was immersed in water, the distinctive Ruyi Pavilion pattern bled through the paper. Later, while playing chess with the Emperor, Duke An brought up Queen Dowager Wen. He recalled Eunuch Wang's absence from the palace years ago, which Eunuch Wang confirmed was to oversee the Queen Dowager's funeral arrangements on the Emperor's orders.

Duke An probed whether the Emperor also believed his mother's different colored eyes were an ill omen, but the Emperor dismissed the topic, claiming his affection for Duke An stemmed from the Queen Dowager's past kindness to him. Inwardly, Duke An questioned the Emperor's sincerity, wondering if he too would be discarded like Xu Jin, who was labeled an "ominous star," if it served to cover up a mistake. Fu Rong received an invitation to Qi Zhu’s conferment banquet.

Delighted, she began creating new jewelry and gathered "Ruyi Dates," reminiscing about their childhood and hoping to restore their former closeness. Disguised in black, Liu Ru Yi visited Dong Fang Li, presenting him with the complete set of the Twelve Folding Fans of Shu. She revealed the fans' link to a 25-year-old treachery case in Yizhou, implicating him in the tragedy.

Identifying herself as the master of Ruyi Pavilion, she offered a deal: if he helped her, the past would be buried. If he refused, his reputation and his frail young son's future would be in jeopardy. Shortly after, Dong Fang Li learned that Wu You, a profiteer who once owned ten of the fans, had died suddenly, foaming at the mouth, demonstrating Ruyi Pavilion's ruthless efficiency.

Marquis Xindu and Duke Cheng discussed Ruyi Pavilion's power, impressed that they could even obtain a signed document from the upright Dong Fang Li. Duke Cheng explained Ruyi Pavilion’s cautious methods, requiring clients to leave written requests at a designated location. Their latest demand was for information on the Huxiao Camp and half a gold mine. Duke Cheng agreed to the high price, seeing the connection itself as invaluable and a means to eventually gain influence over them.

Soon after, a large shipment of sulphur, authorized by Dong Fang Li's letter, was transported for an unknown purpose, speculated to be for the Emperor's birthday fireworks. Under Xu Jin’s leadership, the imperial guards had become disciplined. To maintain this standard in his absence, Xu Jin announced a selection for a temporary commander. Wu Baiqi was keen to participate but was disqualified due to a poor attendance record.

Feeling that Xu Jin was deliberately making things difficult, he angrily refused to make up the time and announced he needed to be away for a while. After designing gifts for Qi Zhu, Fu Rong fell asleep and had a disturbing dream. She was serving tea to a demanding princess, who complained it was too cold, then too hot, deliberately spilling it on Fu Rong's hand.

When Xu Jin arrived, the princess tearfully accused Fu Rong of trying to harm her. Xu Jin declared that Fu Rong would no longer have to serve tea, a gesture the princess interpreted as care for herself. She then spitefully warned Fu Rong that a commoner could never become royalty.

Episode 9 Recap

Following an invitation she believed was from Qi Zhu, Fu Rong arrived at the Qi Residence only to find her friend unusually distant. Fu Rong had brought a handcrafted headdress and Qi Zhu's favorite dates as gifts, but Qi Zhu seemed confused by her presence. The Princess of Xihe then arrived, revealing she had invited Fu Rong on Qi Zhu's behalf. Fu Rong recognized the princess as the cruel woman from her dream.

The princess presented Qi Zhu with a gift but followed it with a thinly veiled insult, remarking that a "chicken" with a few feathers could never become a "phoenix." Angered by the slight against her friend, Fu Rong threw back a headpiece the princess had previously given her. Seeking to avoid a scene, Qi Zhu stated that while all guests were welcome, she would not tolerate trouble at her inauguration.

The princess then told Fu Rong not to be upset, suggesting she could have her revenge on Qi Zhu once she married Earl Yan. While wandering the grounds, Fu Rong encountered her "little follower," only to be stunned when other officials addressed him as "Prince An," revealing his true identity as both the prince and the esteemed Mr. Ju Shui. She apologized for her previous over-familiarity, but he reassured her that to her, he would always be her "little follower."

He explained that he used the alias "Farmer Ju Shui" to escape the confines of his royal life and give a voice to the common people. Fu Rong expressed her admiration and promised to keep his secret. Later, she stopped by a date tree, reminiscing about a childhood memory of knocking down dates for Qi Zhu. As she tried to pick some, she unknowingly dropped an earring.

Just then, Xu Jin appeared and, seeing her struggle, skillfully knocked down a shower of dates by throwing a few small stones. As Fu Rong joyfully gathered the dates, she overheard the Qi family's matriarch berating Qi Zhu, pressuring her to marry into nobility—even as a concubine—to elevate the family's status. Qi Zhu angrily retorted, recalling how the Madam had abandoned her and her brother and how only Consort Duan's help had ensured their mother a proper burial.

The Madam cruelly threatened Qi Zhu with the same fate as her late brother. Fu Rong intervened, defending Qi Zhu and warning the Madam that any disrespect towards the newly-appointed Princess Consort of Qingping could bring the Emperor's wrath. However, when Fu Rong offered the dates to Qi Zhu, she coldly knocked them to the ground and stormed away. Heartbroken, Fu Rong turned to leave, accidentally stepping on a date and dislocating her ankle.

A distraught Qi Zhu rushed away and collided with Duke Huai. Princess of Xihe witnessed this and taunted Qi Zhu for social climbing. Duke Huai graciously took the blame for the collision, and when the princess asked after Duke Su, he pointed her in another direction, causing her to leave in pursuit. Shortly after, Xu Jin emerged from the shadows. Seeing Fu Rong's injury, he gently carried her to a corridor, where he skillfully reset her dislocated ankle.

The Princess of Xihe returned just in time to see this intimate moment and left in a jealous huff. Later, Prince An found Fu Rong's lost earring by the date tree, a smile gracing his lips as he recognized it. That night, Fu Rong received two packages: one held medicinal ointment, presumably from Xu Jin, and the other contained her earring with a note from Prince An, inviting her to go fishing.

Meanwhile, her master Liu Ru Yi successfully repaired her treasured broken bracelet. The next day, Fu Rong met Prince An by the river. They discussed their philosophies on life, with Fu Rong passionately stating her opposition to arranged marriages, likening them to being caged and expressing her desire for a partnership built on freedom and mutual understanding. Prince An noticed the unique pattern on her newly-repaired bracelet, noting its resemblance to the Ruyi Pavilion's insignia.

Fu Rong explained it was a unique piece and her master's "life's work," which gave Prince An a moment of pause. At Yunluo Temple, Wu Baiqi was lighting a memorial lamp for his mother when he saw Fu Xuan. He followed her to a nearby lake, startling her and causing her to slip on the wet rocks. He lunged to catch her, but they both tumbled into the water.

After a quick apology, Wu Baiqi lifted her out of the lake, feigning nonchalance about the incident despite his racing heart. A flustered Fu Xuan insisted they treat it as an accident and never speak of it again, quickly departing with her maid. Left alone, Wu Baiqi awkwardly muttered to the empty air, saying he was prepared to take responsibility if she wished.

With Marquis Xindu's birthday banquet approaching, Earl Yan delivered an invitation to Fu Rong, hoping she would impress his mother, Lady Xindu, and win her approval for their marriage. This sparked an idea, and Fu Rong secretly sought out the region's most reputable physician, Ninth Uncle of the Sanjiu Apothecary, known for his potent cold remedies.

On the day of the banquet, Xu Jin arrived and, after offering his birthday wishes, subtly questioned Marquis Xindu about his past association with the disgraced Qi Ce. The Marquis defensively downplayed their connection. Soon after, Fu Rong and Fu Xuan arrived, but Fu Rong's persistent cough annoyed Lady Xindu, who deemed it improper and ordered Ninth Uncle to be summoned to treat her.

The festivities were interrupted when Wu Baiqi stormed in, playing the part of a reckless young master. Marquis Xindu, enraged, berated him for relying on the family name and his mother's legacy, "Feng Lai Yi," for his livelihood. Wu Baiqi mockingly retorted that the Marquis should change his surname to Wu if he wanted Feng Lai Yi, then stormed out. In the courtyard, he arrogantly demanded the elderly housekeeper kneel to him, but Fu Xuan intervened.

She chastised Wu Baiqi for his behavior, and the conversation shifted to their fall in the lake. Wu Baiqi playfully suggested he should take responsibility, even hinting that if he hadn't left his family, their childhood engagement might have been to each other. Fu Xuan pinned him against a pillar, warning him to drop the subject. Unfazed, Wu Baiqi reversed their positions, trapping her.

Blushing, Fu Xuan pulled away, declaring she would rather become a nun than marry a "spoiled child" like him. During the feast, Princess of Xihe proposed a game of pitch-pot, offering her own valuable jade bracelet as a prize for the winner. She then challenged Fu Rong directly, proposing they both wager their personal bracelets. Despite Fu Xuan's concerns about the sentimental value of Fu Rong's bracelet, the princess pressured Fu Rong, insinuating she was afraid to compete.

The match began, and Fu Rong quickly took the lead, 40 points to 15. Finding the game too easy, the princess proposed they continue blindfolded. With uncanny accuracy, she scored another 40 points, bringing her total to 55. Fu Rong then took her turn, tying a blindfold over her eyes.

Episode 10 Recap

Haunted by a nightmare of being trapped in a coffin, Fu Rong faltered during the pot-throwing competition, dropping her arrow. Xu Jin stepped forward and placed it back in her hand, giving her the resolve to win the match. The defeated Princess of Xihe complained about his interference and petulantly demanded her own bracelet back. After the competition, Lady Xindu took Fu Rong to see the physician, Mr. Jiu.

He confirmed Fu Rong was suffering from a cold, but also revealed she possessed an extremely rare, cold-yin body type, meaning she would likely only be able to bear daughters. Seizing this opportunity, Lady Xindu publicly humiliated Fu Rong, accusing her of disrespecting the princess and being improperly familiar with Duke Su, thereby shaming the Xindu household. Fu Xuan, who had been listening from outside, entered to defend her sister.

She reminded Lady Xindu that the betrothal was an old arrangement that the Fu family had never pursued, and that it was the Xindu family who had recently revived the matter. She questioned if humiliating their invited guests was the Xindu way. In response, Lady Xindu revealed Mr. Jiu's diagnosis, declaring that a future Lady Xindu who could not bear a son was unworthy.

Agreeing that she was indeed "unworthy," Fu Rong decisively produced Earl Yan's betrothal card and demanded hers in return, formally breaking the engagement. Despite Earl Yan's protests, Lady Xindu ordered her servants to retrieve Fu Rong’s card. Outside the Xindu residence, Fu Xuan acknowledged that Fu Rong had orchestrated the entire situation to annul the engagement. Xu Jin appeared and returned Fu Rong’s bracelet. As she put it on, he noticed the clasp formed the emblem of the Ruyi Pavilion.

He forcefully grabbed her wrist, demanding to know where she got it. Startled, Fu Rong retorted that if he truly suspected her of being a criminal, he should investigate, follow, or even torture her for answers. Back at the Fu Residence, their father, Fu Pin Yan, was furious that Fu Rong had unilaterally broken off her engagement.

As he moved to punish her, Fu Xuan knelt and took the blame, proposing she take Fu Rong to Yunluo Temple for a period of reflection. Fu Rong protested the temple's austere lifestyle but was overruled. Meanwhile, an anonymous letter accusing Dong Fang Li of corruption arrived at Xu Jin's residence. Xu Jin deduced the sender was not from the Ruyi Pavilion but a third party trying to entrap both him and Dong Fang Li.

His advisor, Mr. Ge, noted that Xu Jin's lack of action after seeing the Ruyi emblem on Fu Rong meant he must trust her deeply, prompting Xu Jin to question his own unwillingness to suspect her. At the Dong Residence, a physician informed a distraught Dong Fang Li that his son, Dong Wen, was critically ill and would not survive without two extremely rare herbs: ford nervilia leaf and live lumbricus rubellus.

Later, the Ruyi Pavilion Master, Liu Ru Yi, appeared in his study. She informed him that his blackmailer—now revealed to be Duke Cheng—wished to meet him in three days. Dong Fang Li was horrified at the thought of being further complicit, fearing that the sulfur he had already approved could cause mass casualties in the capital.

Liu Ru Yi callously stated it was just business to her and advised him to cooperate, threatening the lives of both his son and the public if he refused. At Yunluo Temple, Wu Baiqi teased Fu Xuan by attempting to feed a fish to a small white cat. Fu Xuan chided him for attempting to kill an animal on temple grounds, and their bickering scared the cat away.

A young monk then appeared, distressed, explaining that the abbot's new cat was missing. After arguing over whose fault it was, they went their separate ways to search for it. Later that night, Fu Xuan's lantern went out as she searched the woods, and she bumped into Wu Baiqi. They heard a meow and together found the little white cat, which Wu Baiqi playfully named Xiao Bai.

Dong Fang Li met reluctantly with Duke Cheng, who revealed that while the sulfur was secure, he now needed Dong Fang Li's help to transport nitre into the capital. Alarmed by the combination of sulfur and nitre, Dong Fang Li questioned his intentions, but Duke Cheng curtly told him to do more and talk less if he ever wished to be free.

Learning of Dong Wen's condition, Liu Ru Yi retrieved a box containing the rare ford nervilia leaf and instructed a subordinate to deliver it, along with the lumbricus rubellus once found, to the Dong Residence via an intermediary. Finding the temple walls easy to climb, Fu Rong snuck into the city and ran into Duke An. They watched a shadow play about a woman who sacrificed herself for love, which moved Fu Rong deeply.

They agreed to meet the next evening. The next day, Duke An waited with a new script he had written, but Fu Rong never appeared, as she and her sister had already left the temple. Disheartened, Duke An lamented believing in the "cupid's red thread." Fu Rong, along with her younger brother Fu Guan, had relocated to the family's villa in Hong Village. At his residence, Duke An, under his alias Mr. Jushui, met with Liu Ru Yi.

After confirming their business arrangement, he casually asked if she knew a young woman named Fu Rong. Liu Ru Yi's expression flickered, but she denied knowing her. From her reaction, Duke An confirmed his suspicion: Liu Ru Yi, the proprietor of the Ruyi Silver Pavilion, was the master of the infamous Ruyi Pavilion. Having learned of Dong Fang Li's frequent trips to Hong Village, Xu Jin followed him there.

At the villa, Fu Rong was complaining of nightmares when Fu Guan begged to see geese. In the nearby fields, their attempt to hold a gosling resulted in being chased by the angry flock. Xu Jin suddenly appeared and drove the geese away. He was gentle toward the grateful Fu Guan, but his expression turned cold the moment Fu Rong spoke.

Wary of the geese, Fu Rong challenged the suspicious Xu Jin to escort them back to the villa to prove she was merely staying there. He accepted, but upon arrival, voiced his concern that she might tip off his targets. In response, Fu Rong suggested she stay by his side at all times, a proposal which suited the suspicious Duke perfectly.

Episode 11 Recap

Wu Baiqi found himself near Ruyi Pavilion. Hoping to see Fu Xuan, he entered, finding only her and her maid, Gu Yuan. During their conversation, Fu Xuan remarked to her maid that Wu Baiqi, despite his outwardly roguish appearance, was actually kind-hearted and righteous. She believed that with diligence and hard work, he could one day become a great general. Xu Jin was on the streets searching for Dong Fangli, with Fu Rong in tow.

She kept addressing him as "Your Highness," much to his annoyance for broadcasting his identity. Fu Rong spotted a beautiful perfume pouch but lamented not having money, so Xu Jin promptly bought the vendor's entire stock. He then began handing them out to passersby while asking if they had seen Dong Fangli. When he encountered a carter with a similar beard, Xu Jin questioned him, but the man had seen nothing.

Xu Jin gave him a pouch anyway, leaving Fu Rong to carry a large bag of the rapidly dwindling supply. Later, they stopped at an eatery where Fu Rong, without being asked, told the waiter to hold the ginger and garlic, surprising Xu Jin, who wondered how she knew his preferences. Fu Rong expressed her frustration that he kept her in the dark, noting that learning his secrets always led to misfortune for her, making ignorance preferable.

Xu Jin sharply told her to stop being sarcastic. As night fell, the streets came alive with the Hong Village Lantern Festival. People hung lanterns to pray for blessings, believing the higher the lantern, the better the fortune. Suddenly, Xu Jin saw a figure resembling Dong Fangli and instructed Fu Rong to wait as he gave chase. At the same time, Fu Rong spotted a figure who looked like her master, Liu Ruyi, but lost her in the dense crowd.

Xu Jin's pursuit also failed. Disappointed, he returned and bought two lanterns for Fu Rong. As she took one, Xu Jin swiftly lifted her and leaped onto the highest lantern stand, holding her securely by the waist. Fu Rong protested, accusing him of taking advantage. Xu Jin feigned helplessness and loosened his grip, causing her to instinctively grab his arm to keep her balance. He then playfully accused her of taking advantage.

They hung their lanterns side-by-side, creating a beautiful scene beneath the moonlit sky. Meanwhile, Guan Ge, who had gotten lost while playing, was found by Miao Ling. Upon his return, Fu Rong noticed his face was hot, but she was too focused on scolding him to pay close attention and went to brew him medicine. Xu Jin, however, did not scold the boy. Instead, he gave him two perfume pouches, including the one Fu Rong had admired earlier.

Before bed, Fu Rong coaxed a reluctant Guan Ge to drink his medicine. To appease her, he offered her a candy from a small bag, which she playfully accepted and ate. He then gave her the perfume pouch from Xu Jin. Fu Rong accepted it but sternly warned Guan Ge not to take things from strangers, leaving the boy to nervously clutch his bag of candies.

As Fu Rong emerged into the courtyard, Xu Jin instantly recognized her by the scent of the perfume pouch. She falsely claimed to have thrown it away, causing a flicker of displeasure on his face. They shared drinks, and Fu Rong toasted to his safety. Puzzled, Xu Jin asked why she always predicted misfortune and an early death for him. She began a drinking contest, and soon, Xu Jin was semi-conscious while Fu Rong was completely incoherent.

He carried her to bed, where she mumbled about not wanting to die. He then noticed the perfume pouch she cherished placed neatly by her pillow and let out a knowing smile. The next morning, Xu Jin was gone. Fu Rong awoke with a headache just as Miao Ling rushed in with the alarming news that Guan Ge had broken out in a severe rash resembling chickenpox.

The doctor was stumped, stating it was dangerously aggressive and unlike any normal case. Soon after, a similar spot appeared on Fu Rong's forehead. To prevent the illness from spreading, Fu Rong dismissed the servants and stayed to care for Guan Ge alone. Elsewhere, Xu Jin met with Xu Jia and Ge Chuan. He spotted the carter from the previous day, now well-dressed, and questioned him.

The carter revealed he'd been paid well to transport a box of "jewelry" to a desolate wilderness at night. Xu Jin found this suspicious. Just then, he saw the maid Lan Xiang arranging a carriage back to the capital and learned of Fu Rong and Guan Ge's plight. He immediately took Ge Chuan and rushed to the villa. Upon arrival, Ge Chuan diagnosed that Guan Ge had been poisoned with "Three Days of Withering," not chickenpox.

He explained that children have a more severe reaction, while adults like Fu Rong experience milder symptoms. He praised Fu Rong's use of medicinal herbs, which had slowed the poison and likely saved Guan Ge's life. After prescribing a remedy and performing acupuncture, he assured them Guan Ge would recover. He also treated Fu Rong, whose symptoms were less severe as an adult who had ingested a smaller dose.

Grateful, Fu Rong vowed to cooperate with any future suspicions from Xu Jin. He explained his suspicion stemmed from a military rations corruption case he was investigating. After the lead suspect, Qi Ce, died, a pattern identical to the one on her bracelet was found in his letters.

Fu Rong then confessed her dreams: she had dreamt Guan Ge would get sick, which is why she had brought herbs, and had also dreamt of Xu Jin's early death, explaining her drunken words. She bowed, promising to repay his kindness in her next life and to light a longevity lamp for him. Two days later, the sore on Fu Rong's forehead scabbed over. She recalled getting a scar in her dream and was determined to avoid one this time.

Exhausted from caring for Guan Ge, she collapsed by his bedside. Xu Jin found her and gently draped his coat over her. The sudden movement startled her awake, and the fabric brushed against her forehead, knocking the scab off and leaving a scar, just as in her dream. Once Guan Ge's health improved, Xu Jin asked him to recall what happened when he got lost. Guan Ge recounted seeing men transporting large boxes.

An "uncle" gave him a bag of candy and told him not to tell anyone what he saw. They discovered the candy was laced with the "Three Days of Withering" poison, which explained both their symptoms. They concluded that Guan Ge had been poisoned because he witnessed something he shouldn't have.

Episode 12 Recap

Following a carter's description, Xu Jin and Fu Rong discovered a hidden cave in the wilderness containing scattered sulphur powder and nitre fragments, confirming the materials had been transported there. On their return to the capital, their young charge Guan Ge asked for candied haw. Xu Jin stepped out of the carriage to buy some and coincidentally encountered Dong Fang Li.

Watching from the carriage window, Guan Ge immediately recoiled, identifying Dong Fang Li as the man who had previously given him candy. Wen'er, Dong Fang Li's son, showed significant improvement in his health. When Xu Jin visited the Dong Residence, he mentioned that an inventory of the imperial storehouse revealed some missing items, causing Dong Fang Li's hand to freeze in mid-air.

After leaving, Xu Jin instructed his subordinate Xu Jia to spread a rumor that a farmer had accidentally discovered the valley near Hong Village, aiming to see who was manipulating his uncle from behind the scenes. Later, Xu Jin discussed the matter with his mother, Consort Shu, who recalled her brother Dong Fang Li's upright character, noting he is an honest man who would never accept unearned favors. Meanwhile, Wu Baiqi intensified his martial arts training.

Xu Jin presented him with a handmade wooden spear, advising moderation and promising a real silver spear if Wu Baiqi succeeded in the upcoming Imperial Guard selection. After several days of surveillance, Xu Jia reported that Dong Fang Li had moved the sulphur and nitre to a guarded rice storehouse in Hong Village.

Xu Jin ordered his men to stand by, choosing to observe their next move to understand the true purpose of the materials, despite the risk of being implicated. He knew the situation was a trap designed to restrain him by leveraging his connection to his maternal uncle. At Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Rong was designing new patterns when her master, Liu Ruyi, entered.

Noticing the faint scar on Fu Rong's forehead, Liu Ruyi offered to draw a forehead marking to conceal it. Fu Rong asked if Liu Ruyi had been to Hong Village, but she denied it, explaining she was scouting locations for a new workshop. Fu Rong also inquired about a unique bracelet Liu Ruyi had made, and her master affirmed it was an inimitable design exclusive to the pavilion.

Liu Ruyi then cautioned Fu Rong against associating too closely with royals like Duke Su and Duke An due to their differing statuses. During a sudden rainstorm, Xu Jin took shelter under the eaves of Ruyi Pavilion. Fu Rong brought him ginger tea. Their conversation led Xu Jin to a realization: handling Dong Fang Li's situation required a desperate strategy to "rise from the ashes."

As he hurried to leave, Fu Rong handed him an umbrella, revealing it was the same one he had previously left for her. This gesture, along with the cooling cream and food he had also secretly left, confirmed for Fu Rong that Xu Jin had been silently caring for her. The next morning, Duke An visited the Fu Residence to see Fu Rong. He complimented her forehead marking, remarking that a flaw can enhance beauty.

He learned her good mood was because Xu Jin had found a potential solution to Dong Fang Li's predicament. Upon leaving, Duke An encountered Fu Rong's father, Fu Pinyan, who subtly conveyed that Fu Rong was not a suitable match for royalty. Later, Fu Pinyan explained to his wife that he prioritized Fu Rong's safety and happiness over social standing, believing that a royal marriage, even to an idle duke, would trap her in dangerous power struggles.

In the courtyard, Fu Rong and her sister Fu Xuan teased each other. Fu Xuan joked that Fu Rong might become a Duke's consort, while Fu Rong playfully suggested Fu Xuan was destined to be a match for the "Little Marquis," Wu Baiqi. Xu Jin summoned Dong Fang Li and directly addressed the sulphur and nitre matter.

Unwilling to name the mastermind, Dong Fang Li promised to lure him out, asking Xu Jin not to show mercy when the time came. He admitted his reputation was ruined and that a desperate gambit to "rise from the ashes" was his only hope. Meanwhile, Duke An had a letter delivered to Duke Cheng, informing him that Dong Fang Li's allegiance was wavering.

In response, Duke Cheng went to the Dong Residence and seized Wen'er, threatening the boy to coerce his father into compliance. Seeing his son in danger, a desperate Dong Fang Li pleaded with Duke Cheng, now fully aware of what he must do. The final assessment for the Imperial Guards' Corporal began, with only eight candidates remaining.

The test, designed to evaluate both intellect and martial prowess, required them to obtain a blueprint by solving clues across three checkpoints in the city. In the final stage, as candidates scrambled for the prize, an elderly man was brutally beaten by an assailant. While others rushed past, Wu Baiqi hesitated and then intervened, subduing the attacker. Just as another candidate claimed victory by finding the blueprint, the old man lit a firework, signaling the true winner.

Xu Jin appeared and declared that a qualified Corporal must possess not only skill and adaptability but also a benevolent heart. He proclaimed Wu Baiqi the winner and formally presented him with a silver spear, entrusting him with the duty of defending the nation.

Episode 13 Recap

Wu Baiqi was honored with the title of Corporal. Amidst applause and congratulations, he briefly glimpsed Fu Xuan, but she vanished before he could approach him. Meanwhile, Fu Rong's mother came to help her with her morning toilette, carefully selecting a bright hairpin. She informed Fu Rong that Lord Yao, a colleague who had assisted their father greatly in Xuan City, was arriving in the capital to assume his new post.

Her father was hosting a banquet for Lord Yao and his family, which was clearly a blind date for Fu Rong. Unwilling, Fu Rong immediately devised a mischievous plan. At the banquet, Fu Pin Yan toasted Lord Yao, expressing his gratitude for the assistance he received in Xuan City. Lady Yao praised Fu Rong's beauty, though Fu Pin Yan cautioned that his daughter was quite mischievous despite her outward appearance.

Lady Yao commented that Fu Rong was quite different from her own son, Yao Jun, who was shy around strangers. During the meal, Fu Rong discreetly used a small gadget to make a peculiar noise, creating an awkward silence. Seizing the moment, she claimed a sudden stomach ache and excused herself to leave the residence to buy some dates. Outside, Fu Rong spotted Duke Su in plain clothes, about to depart in a carriage.

Dong Fang Li had instructed Duke Su to meet him at Mount Meng. To avoid her family, Fu Rong boldly asked to hitch a ride in Duke Su's carriage. When Duke Su questioned if she feared punishment for running off, Fu Rong confidently declared she would simply blame him for abducting her. Duke Su remarked on her growing skill in falsely accusing others.

Fu Rong insisted he could not abandon her in the desolate wilderness, warning that it would be an even greater offense. They journeyed to Mount Meng, where Fu Rong noted the entrance was exceptionally well-concealed and lacked any visible wheel tracks. As they ventured into One-Line Sky, rocks suddenly cascaded down from above. Duke Su swiftly shielded Fu Rong, protecting her as they ran to a secluded cave. Inside, Fu Rong noticed Duke Su was bleeding from a scratch.

As she tended to his wound, she recalled having seen his physique in the Imperial Guards’ barracks. Duke Su asked if she had gotten a good look back then, and Fu Rong admitted the fog had obscured her view. He then asked if she could see clearly now, to which Fu Rong retorted that she did not want to look. Once they were inside the mountain, the loud banging from the rockfall ceased, which Fu Rong found strange.

She wondered aloud if perhaps the culprits had run out of explosives. As they sought an exit, a bright glint caught their eye. Duke Su identified it as a gold mine, noting that what they saw was merely the surface and there must be more within Mount Meng. Fu Rong questioned why such a discovery was not openly excavated, given that it was a national asset.

Duke Su explained that the mine belonged to the country and could not be privately exploited. He believed his uncle, Dong Fang Li, was not a greedy man and must have had an underlying reason for his actions. He then refocused on finding a way out of their predicament. Back at the Fu Residence, Fu Pin Yan anxiously demanded to know Fu Rong's whereabouts, nearly reducing the maid Lan Xiang to tears.

Fu Xuan quickly offered to check Ruyi Pavilion, a place Fu Rong often went when troubled. Though Liu Ru Yi, the proprietress of Ruyi Pavilion, did not know Fu Rong's exact location, she discreetly assured Fu Xuan that she would handle the situation. A Ruyi Pavilion staff member soon reported that Fu Rong had boarded a carriage with a plainly dressed young man and left the city. Liu Ru Yi speculated that the young man could be Duke An.

She then advised Fu Xuan to return home and tell her parents that Fu Rong was staying with her to prevent further worry, promising to notify the Fu Residence immediately with any news. Meanwhile, Princess of Xihe arrived at Duke Su's Residence, loudly demanding to see Duke Su. When informed he was out, she suspected he was being misled by some woman.

A guard then informed her that Duke Su had gone missing, prompting Princess of Xihe to express her alarm and accuse the guards of misplacing him. Her commotion quickly spread the news of Duke Su's disappearance. Later, Xu Jia, Duke Su's aide, returned and reported that Duke Su had left a message: if he hadn't returned by sunset, Xu Jia was to search his study desk near the candle holder for a map revealing his location.

Trapped in the mountain, Duke Su reflected on his life, believing himself to be a jinx. He recounted being adopted by the late empress at the age of three, after which she fell gravely ill. The Imperial Astronomer declared him to have a jinxed fate, leading his father to send him to a temple to copy sutras and pray for the empress. However, he accidentally knocked over a candle holder, causing a fire and ruining the prayers.

His father then sent him to the frontier, believing his jinx could be used to repel enemies. Duke Su concluded that he should not touch anyone, as misfortune seemed to follow those close to him. Fu Rong strongly disagreed, asserting that she was a lucky star: her father was promoted shortly after her birth, her mother soon had her younger brother Guan'er, everyone around her remained healthy, and she even gained Liu Ru Yi as a master.

She offered to share her good fortune with Duke Su, intertwining her hand with his. As night fell, they shared Duke Su's outer coat by a bonfire, with Fu Rong resting her head on his shoulder. The next morning, Duke Su emerged from the mountain, followed by Fu Rong. Princess of Xihe, who had arrived with a search party, initially rejoiced at Duke Su's sight but her expression instantly soured upon seeing Fu Rong.

Liu Ru Yi and Fu Xuan also arrived by carriage. Princess of Xihe immediately began to verbally attack Fu Rong, questioning her character and the Fu family's upbringing for spending a night alone with Duke Su. Before Fu Xuan could respond, Wu Baiqi stepped forward, sharply rebuking Princess of Xihe for her harsh and unwarranted accusations. He argued that defending someone did not imply an untoward relationship, frustrating Princess of Xihe, who demanded Duke Su intervene.

Duke Su, however, merely ordered his guards to escort Princess of Xihe back to her residence, leaving her to complain as she was led away. Fu Rong thanked Duke Su and apologized to Liu Ru Yi for causing her worry. On the carriage ride back, Fu Xuan asked Fu Rong how she ended up with Duke Su in such a strange place. Fu Rong maintained it was a sheer coincidence.

She then subtly questioned Liu Ru Yi, asking if sometimes even the closest people could not be trusted. Liu Ru Yi dismissed her concerns, attributing them to the fright Fu Rong must have endured and advised them to rest. At Duke Cheng's residence, a bruised Dong Fang Li was brought before Duke Cheng.

A subordinate reported that he had initiated the explosion at One-Line Sky as instructed, but Dong Fang Li had attacked him from behind, preventing the complete ignition of the explosives that would have ensured Duke Su's death. Duke Cheng confronted Dong Fang Li, vowing that he would pay for his actions. Duke Cheng then threatened Dong Fang Li by asking how long it had been since he last saw his son.

Duke Su later learned that Dong Fang Li and his young son, Wen'er, were nowhere to be found in their residence, having reportedly been sent to a country villa for recuperation. Suspecting that Dong Wen was being used to coerce Dong Fang Li, Duke Su immediately dispatched Xu Jia to verify Wen'er's safety at the villa.

In a subsequent scene at the villa, Dong Fang Li is seen tenderly playing with Wen'er, comforting his son who missed home and promising they would return once he was better. The following morning at the imperial court, the Emperor inquired about the Mount Meng incident. Duke Su reported that his investigation into the smuggling of sulfur and nitre had led him to the discovery of the gold mine, and his accidental triggering of explosives had trapped him.

Duke Cheng then reported his own findings, stating he had discovered men buying slaves and sending them to Mount Meng, which led him to uncover the gold mine. When the Emperor demanded to know who was responsible for the illegal mining and smuggling, Dong Fang Li stepped forward, admitting his guilt and asking for punishment. Duke Su advocated for leniency, citing Dong Fang Li's long record as an upright official. However, Duke Cheng insisted on severe punishment.

Overwhelmed, Dong Fang Li declared his immense guilt and fatally struck his head against a pillar. Duke Su rushed to his side, calling for imperial doctors. Later, Duke Cheng's son, Hao'er, angrily complained to his mother that Duke Su had framed Dong Fang Li for personal gain.

Meanwhile, Duke Su instructed a guard to deliver a calming medicine to his mother and to ask for her approval to let Wen'er's paternal uncle, a righteous man with no children, take Wen'er in. Later, Liu Ru Yi met with Duke An. She informed him that with the Mount Meng gold mine exposed, Duke Cheng had entrusted all the explosives to Ruyi Pavilion to distance himself from the scandal, and she was ready to hand them over to Duke An.

However, Liu Ru Yi expressed her confusion and suspicion regarding Dong Fang Li's sudden death, stating her resolve to find whoever was truly behind it. Duke An dismissed her concerns, reminding her that Ruyi Pavilion typically stuck to business. Separately, a subordinate advised Duke An that Ruyi Pavilion's operations were all controlled by a single token, currently held by Liu Ru Yi. He suggested that if Duke An could acquire this token, he could easily take control of Ruyi Pavilion.

Episode 14 Recap

Duke Su arrives at Mount Meng with his men, where they detect a faint smell of sulfur powder and find bloodstains on rocks, along with a piece of cloth from Dong Fang Li's outer robe. Duke Su speculates that Dong Fang Li, rather than attacking him, might have been trying to rescue him and was injured in the process, suggesting he was coerced. Later, Duke Su reports to the Emperor that his uncle's son, Dong Wen, was also previously kidnapped.

The Emperor scolds him for not discovering the case sooner, stating that if he had, Dong Fang Li might not have died and the true culprit could have been found. The Emperor emphasizes that as Commander of the Imperial Guards, Duke Su must secure concrete evidence for every case. At Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Rong is troubled by Dong Fang Li's death and his supposed involvement in the gold mine.

Based on her encounter with him over the peony headpiece, she struggles to believe he was a wicked man. Her master, Liu Ru Yi, tells her that not everything in the world is black and white, and that even if Dong Fang Li had tried to embezzle gold, it wouldn't necessarily make him evil.

When Fu Rong asks what kind of person her master truly is, Liu Ru Yi evasively replies that she is merely a businesswoman content with supporting everyone at Ruyi Pavilion. Fu Rong goes fishing with Duke An, who observes her distracted state. He shares his philosophy on dealing with secrets kept by loved ones: one can either wait for the truth to be revealed or eventually force it out if waiting proves futile.

Fu Rong expresses her fear of either missing an opportunity by waiting too long or causing things to backfire by forcing the issue. On a hot day, Wu Baiqi approaches Fu Xuan and her maid, Bao Zhu. Explaining that his duties as a Corporal in the Imperial Guards leave him no time to manage Feng Lai Yi's accounts, he asks Fu Xuan to become the establishment's accountant.

He praises her meticulousness and mastery of the arts, suggesting she could become a renowned female accountant in Hengjing. He also points out how she avoided marriage proposals by taking refuge in Yun Luo Temple after Qi Ce's incident, implying she secretly enjoys recognition for her talents. Fu Xuan rejects his offer, stating she has no interest in such a public role and that if she were to be an accountant, it would only be for Ruyi Pavilion.

Duke An drops Fu Rong off at her residence just as Duke Su arrives. Duke Su shows Fu Rong a Ruyi emblem, explaining that he found it in a box in Dong Fang Li's study and that the same emblem appeared in Qi Ce's letter, suggesting it is the key to how both men were manipulated before their deaths.

Fu Rong asks for more time to explain the bangle she wears, which bears the same emblem and was a gift from a close person, fearing its hidden dangers. Duke Su, however, expresses his complete trust in her and says he will wait for her to be ready to tell him the truth. Suddenly, the sky darkens as a solar eclipse begins, causing panic in the streets. Amidst the chaos, Fu Xuan is separated from Bao Zhu.

A thief snatches her purse, but Wu Baiqi intervenes, kicking the thief and retrieving several purses, identifying Fu Xuan's by its lotus embroidery. Fu Xuan thanks him but questions his use of violence, which he defends as effective. Startled by the sound of a nearby gong, she instinctively clings to Wu Baiqi, to his delight. When she asks for her purse back, he playfully buys it from her with silver and keeps it for himself.

In the darkness, Fu Rong curses Duke Su, but her words are drowned out by loud gongs. Annoyed, she snatches a gong and bangs it furiously until the sky brightens again, playfully comparing herself to the goddess Nuwa. After the eclipse, they return to their serious conversation, confirming the Ruyi emblem's connection to Qi Ce and Dong Fang Li and the belief that both were exploited.

Duke Su reiterates his unwavering trust in Fu Rong regarding her bangle and the truth she is hiding. During the morning court session, as the Emperor asks his officials about the ominous solar eclipse, an urgent report arrives from Jichang City. It announces the sudden collapse of Mount Tai, which caused numerous casualties and severely damaged Yu Hua Pavilion and Hong Fu Temple, prompting the Emperor to adjourn the court.

In a subsequent private meeting, Duke An suggests to the Emperor that the disaster might be a heavenly sign of an old injustice, specifically mentioning the destruction of Hong Fu Temple. The Emperor, however, swiftly dismisses the insinuation, insisting there is no injustice to be found there.

Fu Rong confronts Liu Ru Yi again, demanding to know the meaning of the emblem on her bangle, why it connects to both Qi Ce and Dong Fang Li, and why Liu Ru Yi lied about it being her unique design. She also reveals she saw Liu Ru Yi in Hong Village, where Dong Fang Li had also been. Liu Ru Yi evasively replies that Fu Rong is her only disciple whom she wishes to protect.

She urges Fu Rong to keep the bangle safe, reassuring her that she would never harm her but offering no further explanation, leaving Fu Rong deeply frustrated. That night, Liu Ru Yi secretly visits Duke An at Ju Shui Pavilion. She confronts him for misusing the explosives, which she believed were for a small tablet inscription but instead caused the collapse of Mount Tai, destroying Yu Hua Pavilion and Hong Fu Temple and killing many innocent people.

Duke An denies direct responsibility, blaming Shang Kai Yang, the Prefect of Jichang City, whom he admits to having cultivated. Disillusioned, Liu Ru Yi declares she will no longer cooperate with him. Afterward, Duke An instructs his aide, Wen Xing, to continue communicating with Shang Kai Yang using the alias "Mr. Liu" and to expedite matters concerning a "token."

The following morning, the Emperor dispatches Duke Cheng to inspect the royal mausoleum, Duke Su to Jichang City to investigate the mountain collapse, and Duke Huai to the ancestral hall to pray for the prosperity of the kingdom. Fu Rong sees Liu Ru Yi leave Ruyi Pavilion with a package and board a carriage heading toward Jichang City. Fu Rong quickly hires another carriage to follow.

On her way out of the city, she encounters Wu Baiqi on patrol and asks him to tell her family she and her master have gone to Yun Luo Temple. In the palace, Qi Zhu is speaking with Duke Huai when the Princess of Xihe appears, accusing Qi Zhu of flirting during a period of fasting.

Qi Zhu cleverly deflects the insult by reminding the Princess that gossip involving Duke Huai could reflect poorly on her in the eyes of his brother, Duke Su. Qi Zhu then manipulates the prideful Princess by suggesting she volunteer to go to Jichang City to console the families of fallen soldiers, pointing out she could stay at the local magistrate's office and see Duke Su daily. The Princess immediately resolves to seek the Emperor's permission.

In Jichang City, Prefect Shang Kai Yang greets Duke Su with an offer of warm wine and food. Duke Su declines the wine, citing the imperial fasting decree. Shang Kai Yang is baffled, as "Mr. Liu" had informed him that Duke Su was lecherous and fond of wine. He deduces that Duke Su must be tired of court beauties and decides to find some local women to please him instead.

Fu Xuan, suspicious of Fu Rong's uncharacteristic trip to Yun Luo Temple, goes to the Imperial Guards headquarters to see Wu Baiqi. When he confirms he did not see Liu Ru Yi with Fu Rong, her suspicion grows. Feigning a desire to light lamps at the temple, Wu Baiqi offers to accompany her, and she accepts. Meanwhile, Liu Ru Yi infiltrates Shang Kai Yang's residence and overhears him discussing "Mr. Liu" with a subordinate.

Shang Kai Yang reveals that Mr. Liu had guided his career and instructed him to detonate the mountain during the solar eclipse, not just to destroy a small tablet, but to cover up the fact that they had been secretly replacing Yu Hua Pavilion's valuable building materials. Hearing this, Liu Ru Yi realizes the full extent of Duke An's deceitful scheme.

Episode 15 Recap

In Jichang City, after her carriage got lost in the crowd, Fu Rong stumbled upon a chaotic scene where men were forcibly seizing a young performer to serve Duke Su. Believing Duke Su was still in the capital, Fu Rong intervened, questioning their actions. The men confirmed Duke Su had arrived that morning.

Seeing the performer was distressed, Fu Rong offered to go in her place, claiming she was more presentable and would personally explain the situation to the Duke, giving only her surname, Fu. Meanwhile, at the ruined Yu Hua Pavilion, Xu Jin inspected the site with Shang Kai Yang, who explained the pavilion was being built with white marble before being destroyed.

Xu Jin deduced that Shang Kai Yang had moved his guards to the pavilion, leaving his residence vulnerable for Xu Jia to steal the public ledger. When Xu Jia reported finding no issues with it, Xu Jin, having found sulfur powder at the site, stated that "no problem is the biggest problem." He suspected Shang Kai Yang deliberately blew up the mountain to hide a major secret and ordered Xu Jia to keep watch for a hidden, true ledger.

Elsewhere, Wu Baiqi and Fu Xuan arrived at Yunluo Temple but found no sign of Fu Rong or Liu Ruyi. Realizing Fu Rong must have an urgent matter to attend to, Wu Baiqi offered to escort Fu Xuan back. Their journey was cut short by a sudden downpour, and their carriage wheel became stuck in a pit. Though Wu Baiqi urged her to stay inside, Fu Xuan insisted on helping.

Together, they pushed the carriage free but stumbled and fell in the mud, with Fu Xuan landing on top of a surprised Wu Baiqi. They decided to take shelter in a nearby dilapidated temple. That evening, Xu Jin returned to his room at the Jichang Residence to find Fu Rong tied up on his bed. The door was locked from the outside, and sleeping smoke filled the room.

As Xu Jin became disoriented, Fu Rong detected the scent of an aphrodisiac and felt dizzy herself. She managed to use a bladed fan to cut her ropes. As she watched Xu Jin's condition worsen, he turned towards her in his daze, causing her eyes to widen in surprise. She quickly tickled him to distract him, wondering who would use such a despicable scheme.

Just then, Liu Ruyi, who had snuck into the residence, was shocked to discover Fu Rong was the woman in the room. Duke An arrived shortly after, equally surprised. He reprimanded his subordinate, stating firmly that while anyone could be used to frame Duke Su, Fu Rong could not be harmed. He then led a dazed Fu Rong out. In her haste, Fu Rong forgot one of her shoes—a pair embroidered by her mother, Han Suniang—leaving it behind.

As they left, Fu Rong concluded the incident was a deliberate setup to frame Duke Su. In the ruined temple, Wu Baiqi and Fu Xuan lit a fire to dry their damp clothes. He urged her to sit closer to the fire, and she asked why he frequented Yunluo Temple. He explained he went monthly to light lamps for his late mother. He corrected Fu Xuan for calling her "Lady Xindu," stating that the Marquis was unworthy of his mother.

He then recounted his painful past: Feng Lai Yi was his mother's dowry, and she had worked herself to death managing it. While he was away managing the business's expansion, Marquis Xindu, greedy for Feng Lai Yi, drove his ill mother to her death by bringing his concubine and illegitimate son into their home. Upon his return, the Marquis blamed him and demanded the deed.

In response, he severed ties with his father and took his mother's surname, becoming Wu Baiqi. Deeply moved, Fu Xuan sincerely apologized for previously misjudging him. Wu Baiqi then draped his dry outer coat over her before settling in a corner to rest. Later that night, Princess Xihe arrived at the Jichang Residence. Finding the guards outside Duke Su's room knocked out, she burst in and found him disoriented. On the floor was a single embroidered shoe.

To explain her presence, she picked it up and lied to the groggy Duke Su, claiming she had just embroidered it for him. Duke Su, realizing he had been drugged in a setup with a woman he couldn't recall, sent the Princess away to investigate himself. Believing the shoe was left by the woman in the plot, the Princess ordered her servant to burn it immediately to destroy the evidence.

Meanwhile, conspirators discussed their confidence that the real ledger, hidden in a cellar, was encrypted and secure. However, Liu Ruyi had already located and retrieved the hidden ledger. As she tried to escape, she was surrounded by Xu Jia and his guards. She threw a volley of silver needles, including one from her cane, to create a diversion and flee, but she lost the ledger in the process.

The next morning, Duke Cheng arrived to expose Xu Jin's supposed indiscretion, accusing him of debauchery and disrespecting the Emperor. Xu Jin calmly allowed a search of his room, warning his brother of the consequences for leaving the imperial mausoleum without permission and for slander. When nothing was found, Duke Cheng hastily left. Xu Jin's men noted that Shang Kai Yang had seemed genuinely surprised by Duke Cheng's arrival, suggesting he wasn't part of this particular scheme.

The recovered ledger was now in Xu Jin's possession. He determined that while the numbers were correct, the text describing the constant replacement of craftsmen was the real problem. A hand-pulled cart delivered Fu Xuan back to the Fu Residence. Wu Baiqi urged her to rest and then unexpectedly offered her the position of bookkeeper at Feng Lai Yi. To his surprise, she accepted. He made her promise to keep his family history a secret, and they sealed it with a pinky swear, with Wu Baiqi playfully asking if she found him childish.

Episode 16 Recap

Fu Xuan, concerned for Wu Baiqi after he was caught in the rain, discreetly sent her maid Bao Zhu to a reputable apothecary to obtain a special flu medicine for him, instructing Bao Zhu to keep her involvement a secret. Meanwhile, in Jichang City, Xu Jin, known as Duke Su, was concluding his investigation into a recent landslide.

He questioned local official Shang Kai Yang, implying Shang was aware the landslide was not natural and hinting at divine displeasure over the state of the empire. Shang Kai Yang, internally dismissing Duke Su as a bungling oaf, merely feigned obedience. Back in the capital, Fu Pin Yan worried about his daughter Fu Rong, who had been missing for days. Fu Xuan tried to reassure him. Unexpectedly, Duke An arrived, escorting a weary Fu Rong home.

Fu Rong explained to her father that her carriage had broken down and Duke An had kindly given her a ride. After Fu Pin Yan and Duke An departed, Fu Xuan confronted Fu Rong, demanding to know where she had been. Fu Rong, visibly distressed, explained she had been dealing with a difficult situation and had even lost track of her master, promising to reveal everything once the truth was clear.

Fu Xuan, however, remained concerned for their aging parents, urging Fu Rong to be more mindful. Upon his return to the capital, Xu Jin reported to the Emperor on his findings in Jichang City. He revealed that the Mount Tai landslide was man-made, caused by explosives containing sulfur and nitre found at the Yu Hua Summer House. Xu Jin suspected Shang Kai Yang, who had created a fake account book to conceal his crimes.

The real account book revealed that expensive white marble from Mount Mo had been fraudulently replaced with cheaper white granite from Mount Heng. The Emperor confirmed that Shang Kai Yang, exposed, had committed suicide at Yu Hua Summer House and left a confession that perfectly matched Xu Jin's investigation. The Emperor explained Shang Kai Yang feared discovery during a planned imperial visit and used a solar eclipse as a cover to destroy evidence by collapsing the summer house.

The Emperor then declared the matter closed. In a separate chamber, Duke An, reflecting on the situation, expressed his deep-seated animosity, stating he no longer sought an apology but now desired "blood for blood" from Xu Jin and the Emperor. Xu Jin later re-examined an unusual weapon left by an assassin: a unique, somewhat thicker silver needle. His subordinate noted its peculiar material and that it could bend freely for easy concealment, but was unable to identify it.

Elsewhere, two men reported to Duke Cheng, admitting their failure to capture a singer due to the unexpected intervention of a lady who offered to take the singer's place. Duke Cheng, recalling intelligence that Wu Baiqi had been searching for Fu Rong, deduced the intervening lady was most likely Fu Rong herself. Furious that Fu Rong had repeatedly thwarted his plans, Duke Cheng ordered his men to teach her a harsh lesson.

As Wu Baiqi was practicing a heartfelt speech to thank Fu Rong, he discovered her sister’s maid, Bao Zhu, lying unconscious. Realizing Fu Xuan was missing, he instructed Bao Zhu to return home silently and went in pursuit. He tracked a suspicious carriage to a remote house. Inside, Duke Cheng’s subordinate was berating his men for capturing Fu Xuan instead of Fu Rong.

When Wu Baiqi arrived, the subordinate, recognizing him, ordered his men to hand over Fu Xuan to distract Wu Baiqi and cover his own escape. The two men hastily fabricated a story, pretending to be human traffickers who had abducted Fu Xuan and were now "selling" her to Wu Baiqi. Wu Baiqi, playing along, paid them and took Fu Xuan, who was still unconscious. Fu Xuan woke up to find herself with Wu Baiqi.

Confused and upset, she tried to buy her freedom, only for Wu Baiqi to refuse. Playfully, she then offered to buy him for a large sum of silver. She questioned why, if her abductors were truly human traffickers, they hadn’t taken her money pouch. Wu Baiqi noted that they seemed eager to release her, suggesting they were not typical traffickers but had accomplices nearby.

Wu Baiqi then explained that he had originally come to her residence to thank her for the medicine she secretly sent him, which had prevented him from falling ill, and to invite her on an outing. Despite their unusual circumstances, they shared a lighthearted moment. Back at Duke Cheng's residence, his subordinate recounted the botched kidnapping. Duke Cheng was enraged, emphasizing the severe implications of being discovered kidnapping a minister’s daughter.

The subordinate, attempting to salvage the situation, suggested a new strategy: targeting Liu Ru Yi, the manager of Ruyi Pavilion, as she was Fu Rong’s master. Duke Cheng, approving the idea, ordered his subordinate to contact Ding Peng to ensure Ruyi Pavilion was shut down permanently. Meanwhile, Fu Rong went to Ruyi Pavilion to confront Liu Ru Yi. Fu Rong accused her master of knowing she had followed her to Jichang City and of keeping secrets from her.

Liu Ru Yi, in turn, challenged Fu Rong about her association with Duke An, reminding her of a promise to avoid palace affairs. Liu Ru Yi sternly insisted that Fu Rong swear to maintain a strict distance from Duke An. Fu Rong grew increasingly upset, demanding to know the meaning behind the patterns on her bracelet and why Liu Ru Yi had visited Hong Village and Jichang City.

Liu Ru Yi, distressed, stated that a single misstep could lead to her utter ruin and that she could not reveal everything, causing Fu Rong to declare she would no longer treat Liu Ru Yi as her master. Later, Xu Jin encountered Fu Rong. He led her to the highest stargazing platform, a place he frequented when troubled, explaining how observing the vastness of the world helped him gain perspective. He quietly offered his support.

Touched by his sincerity, Fu Rong finally revealed that her bracelet was a childhood gift from Liu Ru Yi, who had always kept its origins secret, and pleaded with Xu Jin not to harm her master. Xu Jin then asked about the peculiar weapon he had found.

Fu Rong identified it as a "cane-like silver needle," a hammered plant root that becomes tough as cane, shiny as silver, and sharp as a needle, which Liu Ru Yi occasionally used in jewelry designs. Xu Jin promised to question Liu Ru Yi patiently and without causing her harm. Shortly after, Duke An abruptly visited Ruyi Pavilion.

He confronted Liu Ru Yi, who stated that his actions had crossed her boundaries and that Ruyi Pavilion would no longer cooperate with him. Duke An retaliated with threats, warning her that if the Emperor discovered Ruyi Pavilion's true activities, everyone there would be doomed. He then specifically threatened to reveal the truth to Fu Rong to coerce Liu Ru Yi, proposing that she temporarily hand over Ruyi Pavilion to him in exchange for his protection.

At that moment, Xu Jin also arrived, and a servant announced his presence as he ascended to the second floor where they stood. The following morning, Fu Rong returned to Ruyi Pavilion, finding it eerily silent. She discovered Liu Ru Yi lying on the second floor, bleeding profusely with a dagger in her abdomen. Heartbroken, Fu Rong cried out for help. Soon after, Ding Peng, the prosecutor of the Criminal Investigation Bureau, arrived and sealed the scene.

In her distraught state, Fu Rong touched Liu Ru Yi, getting blood on her hands. Ding Peng immediately accused her of murder and ordered her arrest. At the same time, Wu Baiqi mentioned to Xu Jin that he saw Criminal Investigation Bureau officers rushing towards Ruyi Pavilion. Alarmed, Xu Jin galloped towards the Pavilion. Meanwhile, Fu Xuan, having come to bring clothes for her sister, witnessed officers escorting a shackled Fu Rong away. An officer coldly informed her that Fu Rong had murdered Liu Ru Yi and was to be punished according to the law.

Episode 17 Recap

Fu Rong was apprehended by officers from the Criminal Investigation Bureau, appearing distraught and silent as tears streamed down her face. Her sister, Fu Xuan, immediately stepped forward to block the prosecutor, Ding Peng, questioning the fairness of convicting and detaining someone without any eyewitnesses or physical evidence. Just then, Xu Jin (Duke Su) and Wu Baiqi arrived.

Xu Jin affirmed Fu Xuan's point, stating that it was unlawful to detain Fu Rong in the Criminal Investigation Bureau's main jail without a conviction. Instead, she should be held in a proper detention cell for suspects. Unable to argue, Ding Peng was forced to agree. Afterward, Wu Baiqi escorted Fu Xuan home. He expressed deep admiration for her bravery in confronting the officials and citing Dayu's laws.

However, Fu Xuan's legs buckled, revealing she was terrified and had only put on a brave front for her sister. Seeing she was too shaken to walk, Wu Baiqi draped a robe, originally intended for Fu Rong, over Fu Xuan and carried her back to the Fu Residence. Meanwhile, Xu Jin returned to Ruyi Pavilion to re-investigate the crime scene.

He noted with suspicion that the original coroner, Hu Ming, had abruptly left and been replaced by a new one, Coroner Jiang. Elsewhere, at Ju Shui Pavilion, upon hearing that Fu Rong was detained, Duke An instructed his aide, Wen Xing, to continue tracking a crucial token while he himself hurried out. Ding Peng reported Liu Ruyi's death to Duke Cheng, complaining that his plan to frame Fu Rong was thwarted by Xu Jin's intervention.

Incensed, Duke Cheng ordered his subordinate to spread rumors throughout the capital, accusing Xu Jin of abusing his power to shield a murderer and tarnishing his reputation. Outside the Criminal Investigation Bureau, Xu Jin encountered Fu Xuan and her father, Fu Pinyan, who had come to visit Fu Rong. Xu Jin advised them to return home to avoid suspicion, noting that the bureau's swift arrival after the murder was highly suspect.

He assured them he would not allow Fu Rong to be wrongly accused, for which Fu Pinyan expressed his profound gratitude. News of Xu Jin defending Fu Rong reached the Emperor. When questioned, Xu Jin clarified that he would only investigate and present evidence, promising not to interfere with the trial itself. Later, he visited Fu Rong in her cell, bringing food and clothing. He found her asleep, murmuring her master's name.

Not wanting to disturb her, he stayed quietly by her side before departing, but not before confirming with Ding Peng that the joint trial was scheduled for three days later. Duke An also arrived to visit Fu Rong, pushing aside Xu Jin's provisions and replacing them with his own. He woke her, and Fu Rong, still disoriented, mistakenly believed it was he who had been comforting her.

Duke An neither confirmed nor denied this, simply urging her to endure for a few more days and promising to secure her release. He did not ask about the token, asserting that Liu Ruyi had protected Fu Rong so well that she knew nothing of Ruyi Pavilion's true affairs. Returning to Ruyi Pavilion, Xu Jin discovered that Coroner Hu Ming's initial autopsy was conducted at 5:15 PM, while Coroner Jiang's was performed later at 6:00 PM.

This 45-minute time difference was critical; he deduced that Liu Ruyi's time of death, as per the first report, could prove Fu Rong's innocence, as she was still at the Fu Residence at 5:15 PM. With Hu Ming's sudden disappearance being highly suspicious, finding him and his initial autopsy report became the key to the case. Xu Jin dispatched Xu Jia to Hu Village to locate him.

Late that night, Ding Peng presented Fu Rong with a written confession, promising her freedom if she signed it. Recognizing it as a trap, Fu Rong refused. In response, Ding Peng fabricated a charge of an attempted prison escape and had her dragged to the execution ground. As the executioner’s blade was about to fall, a white fan flew through the air, knocking it away. Xu Jin descended, declaring his intention to stop the execution.

He swiftly incapacitated Ding Peng and the surrounding guards. Ge Chuan and Xu Jia arrived on horseback, and Xu Jin escaped the capital with Fu Rong. The next day, news of the prison break enraged the Emperor. He immediately stripped Xu Jin of all his official duties and ordered the city gates sealed to capture them.

By then, Xu Jin and Fu Rong had already slipped out of the capital hidden inside an ice fruit cart, while Ge Chuan and Xu Jia escaped in disguise. Consort Shu and Duke Huai sought an audience to plead for Xu Jin, but the Emperor was unmoved. Expressing his deep disappointment, he summoned Duke An and entrusted him with command of the Imperial Guards.

Inwardly delighted by this turn of events, Duke An feigned reluctance before accepting the responsibility, seizing the opportunity created by the rift between the Emperor and Xu Jin. At the Fu Residence, a worried Fu family was interrupted by Wu Baiqi, who arrived with his men to conduct a search. He maintained a stern, official demeanor, even toward Fu Xuan.

When his subordinate, Guo Rui, accidentally struck young Guan Ge with his sword hilt, an angered Fu Xuan sent the boy inside. Just then, Ding Peng arrived to arrest the entire Fu family. Wu Baiqi, feigning impartiality, argued that since his search had yielded no trace of the fugitives, there were no grounds to arrest the family, who claimed to know nothing of the prison break.

To further maintain the pretense of avoiding bias, Wu Baiqi declared he could not personally lead the search outside the city and instead ordered Guo Rui to take charge, giving him a subtle, meaningful look.

Episode 18 Recap

Following his escape from the capital, Xu Jin and Fu Rong continued their search for Coroner Hu. Meanwhile, Duke An's men reported that while Hu Ming was missing, Duke Cheng's forces were active in Hu Village. Suspecting Duke Cheng intended to silence the coroner, Duke An ordered Wen Xing to investigate all case files for anyone surnamed Hu, believing this person was key to exonerating Fu Rong.

Later, learning that Hu Ming had indeed vanished, Duke An dispatched his own secret guards to Hu Village with explicit orders to rescue Fu Rong and Hu Ming, but to leave Xu Jin to his fate. Xu Jin and Fu Rong arrived in Hu Village, where Xu Jin noted numerous dry hoofprints, indicating that a large group on horseback had already been there, likely to capture or kill Coroner Hu.

To gather information, Fu Rong devised a plan, smearing blood on Xu Jin’s lip to make him appear injured. Presenting themselves as siblings from Yuzhou attacked by bandits on Zhe Gu Hill, they convinced an old woman to give them shelter. The woman offered them what little food she had. Perceptive from her own past, the old woman quickly deduced they were an eloped couple, not siblings.

Playing along, Fu Rong fabricated a story about a cruel stepmother forcing her into a marriage, which prompted their flight. She then inquired about her supposed maternal uncle, Hu Ming. The old woman identified Hu Ming as a filial coroner from the capital and directed them to his mother’s home. Despite their eagerness to leave, the old woman insisted they stay the night, preparing a single blanket for them.

As they sat awkwardly on the bed, Fu Rong noticed a loose thread from a woman's garment on Xu Jin's sleeve and repeatedly asked if he cared about it. As he leaned closer to her, he suddenly blew out the lamp. At that moment, they detected movement outside. Realizing it was unsafe to stay, they prepared to leave. Fu Rong left her hairpin as payment and a token of gratitude before they slipped out.

As they fled, they were ambushed by assassins firing arrows from the shadows. Xu Jin shielded Fu Rong, injuring his arm, but used his white fan to deflect more arrows before pulling her into the forest. After a long chase by masked men, they hid in tall grass and narrowly escaped. Xu Jin observed that their pursuers seemed to be avoiding the Imperial Guards, deducing that the most dangerous place—Hu Ming’s house—was now the safest.

At Hu Ming’s house, only his mother was present. A skilled healer, she treated Xu Jin’s arm while chiding him for his carelessness. She initially denied knowing anything about a post-mortem report or her son’s whereabouts. Xu Jin revealed his identity as the Fourth Prince and explained that Fu Rong had been framed, pleading for her help and promising protection. Just then, officers from the Criminal Investigation Bureau burst in to arrest her.

After Xu Jin swiftly struck down one of the officers, the terrified woman revealed that Hu Ming was hiding in a Taoist abbey at the foot of Zhe Gu Hill. Xu Jin promised to send his guards to protect her once he regrouped with them. The assassins pursued them again, cornering them at a lake. With no other escape, they jumped into the water. Washed ashore, they found themselves in a beautiful scene, surrounded by countless fireflies.

Fu Rong marveled at the beauty in their dire situation. Recalling her previous claim of not fearing death, Xu Jin confessed that he only felt such fear before he met her. He gave her his white fan for self-defense, declaring that both his fan and his heart were one-of-a-kind and now belonged to her. Fu Rong accepted, teasing him about proposing with just a fan, but told him not to give such a unique item to anyone else.

The assassins surrounded them again. Xu Jin, believing they wouldn't kill him, prepared to surrender so Fu Rong could escape. However, Commander Guo Rui and the Imperial Guards arrived, driving the assassins away. Guo Rui informed Xu Jin they were there to arrest him on imperial orders, not to rescue him. Citing his trust in Xu Jin's integrity, Guo Rui allowed him to leave on the condition that he return to the capital by the next day.

Xu Jin instructed Guo Rui to protect Hu Ming's mother and to have his aide, Mr. Ge, meet them at the East Gate. At the Fu Residence, Wu Baiqi tossed a note to Fu Xuan. She read it and burned it, making him think she didn't trust him. At the Taoist abbey, Xu Jin and Fu Rong found Hu Ming. He initially feigned ignorance, but when Fu Rong told him his mother had nearly been arrested, he relented.

After learning Xu Jin had protected her, Hu Ming admitted he had the original post-mortem report. Xu Jin revealed his royal identity and promised protection, convincing Hu Ming to return with them and testify. As they reached the capital, Fu Rong insisted on facing the consequences with Xu Jin and rode with him through the city gates just before they closed. Fu Xuan and Wu Baiqi were waiting for them.

Fu Xuan explained that Wu Baiqi's note had asked her to come to the East Gate if she trusted him. She admitted she had burned the note to prevent eavesdroppers, as she was worried about her injured younger brother. As a way of thanks, Wu Baiqi suggested she could help with his business ledgers, and she agreed to assist when needed. Fu Rong was taken back to the Criminal Investigation Bureau, and Xu Jin was brought to the palace.

When Duke An heard, he cursed Xu Jin for being useless. Later, Duke An played chess with the Emperor while Xu Jin knelt below, being beaten with rods. The noise disrupted the game, and the Emperor finally addressed Xu Jin, who accepted full blame for his lawless actions but insisted he did it because an innocent life was at stake. He implored the Emperor to hold a new trial to uncover the truth.

At the public hearing, presided over by the Emperor, Prosecutor Ding Peng presented Coroner Jiang's report, insisting Fu Rong was guilty. Acting as Fu Rong's counsel, Xu Jin argued that it was illogical for the weaker Fu Rong to overpower Liu Ru Yi. He then presented Hu Ming, who testified that Ding Peng had dismissed him from the case.

Hu Ming’s report revealed that Liu Ru Yi’s body showed advanced rigor mortis, indicating she had died nearly an hour before Fu Rong arrived at the scene. Exposed, Ding Peng confessed he hadn't read Hu Ming's report carefully, having been eager to claim credit by using his relative, Coroner Jiang. The Emperor ordered Fu Rong’s immediate release and a public announcement of her innocence. He also decreed that the traumatized Hu Ming be cared for by the bureau.

Ding Peng was demoted to a common constable, fined a year's salary, and sentenced to fifty lashes. The Emperor ordered the investigation into Liu Ru Yi's murder to continue. For her "absurd behavior," Fu Rong was ordered to copy the "Female Commandment" at home, and her father, Fu Pin Yan, was fined three months' salary. Finally, Xu Jin was commanded to return to the palace with the Emperor.

Episode 19 Recap

Fu Rong returned home, much to the relief of her family. Her father, Fu Pin Yan, was so grateful for her safety that he considered his three-month salary fine a small price to pay. Fu Rong, however, felt guilty, knowing Duke Su, Xu Jin, was confined and being punished by the Emperor for helping her. Her keen-eyed sister, Fu Xuan, had already discerned Xu Jin's deep affection for Fu Rong.

When pressed, Fu Rong admitted she and Xu Jin shared mutual feelings. However, with her master Liu Ru Yi's murder still unsolved, both of them facing imperial punishment, and Liu Ru Yi's funeral arrangements looming, Fu Rong decided that any thoughts of their relationship would have to wait. Later, Fu Xuan was startled in the courtyard by a figure vaulting over the wall: Wu Baiqi on another unannounced visit.

He insisted on the clandestine entry, finding it more exciting and less awkward than interrupting her family's reunion. He persuaded Fu Xuan to accompany him to Feng Lai Yi to examine ledgers, as he was too busy during the day. Despite her worries about the late hour, Wu Baiqi reassured her, offering to carry her over the wall.

Fu Xuan initially found the idea ridiculous, but once Wu Baiqi was carrying her across the rooftops, she embraced the thrill of their adventure. At Feng Lai Yi, while Wu Baiqi watched, Fu Xuan meticulously reviewed the ledgers and quickly identified discrepancies. Records showed a single transaction with Yongzou Music for 2,000 taels, but the final account indicated 4,000 taels, suggesting unrecorded dealings. Fu Xuan questioned how transactions could occur without his official seal, hinting at deeper hidden problems.

Wu Baiqi conceded that the accessible ledgers were likely copies made by Ji Qing Ting, making it difficult to uncover the full truth. As Liu Ru Yi’s body was prepared for burial, Duke An arrived, expressing his regret to Fu Rong for always arriving "one step behind" when she needed help. While examining Liu Ru Yi's clothing, Fu Rong noticed a silk thread identical to one she had seen on Xu Jin's sleeve in Hu Village.

She questioned Gu Yuan, who reluctantly revealed that on the day of the murder, Liu Ru Yi had instructed her to leave because Duke Su was visiting, and to keep his visit a secret from everyone, including Fu Rong. Heartbroken, Fu Rong recalled her last, harsh words disowning her master, and her guilt intensified. Consumed by grief and suspicion, she vowed to uncover the truth and seek vengeance if Xu Jin was the killer.

On the rainy day of Liu Ru Yi’s burial, Fu Rong swore to avenge her master. Realizing a witness might exist, she found a farmer she had previously encountered near Ruyi Pavilion. The man recalled seeing a handsome, noble-looking man in white leaving the pavilion that day, appearing hurried and with bloodstains on his clothes. He also noted the man possessed martial arts skills.

This testimony, combined with the silk thread and her memory of Xu Jin's injured arm, solidified Fu Rong's conviction that Xu Jin was responsible for Liu Ru Yi's death. She resolved to ask Duke An for help with her plan for revenge. The Emperor intended for Xu Jin to marry the Princess of Xihe, but Xu Jin adamantly refused, requesting instead to marry Fu Rong.

He knelt before the palace gates for a full night, enduring the harsh sun despite his injuries. Observing his son's resolve, and subtly persuaded by Duke An that granting the wish was the best course of action, the Emperor relented. However, citing Fu Rong's common status and troublesome reputation, he decreed she could only be appointed as Duke Su’s concubine, not his principal wife. The imperial decree was delivered to the Fu Residence.

While her mother was distressed, Fu Rong accepted, insisting that marrying the man she loved was what mattered and that she would never allow herself to be mistreated. Determined to honor her, Xu Jin sent lavish betrothal gifts, far surpassing what was typical for a concubine. Wu Baiqi explained to the Fu family that despite the decree, in Xu Jin's heart, Fu Rong was his only wife. Afterward, Wu Baiqi snuck back over the wall to meet Fu Xuan.

He reassured her of Xu Jin’s sincerity and his intention to eventually elevate Fu Rong's status. They then discussed the Feng Lai Yi ledgers. Learning from Wu Baiqi that the true books were hidden, Fu Xuan whispered a cunning plan to him, confident it would force Ji Qing Ting to reveal them.

Fu Rong visited the now-closed Ruyi Pavilion, where she met Gu Yuan, who informed her that Duke Su had arranged for her to move into his residence to continue serving Fu Rong. Gu Yuan then presented Fu Rong with a magnificent phoenix crown, meticulously handcrafted by Liu Ru Yi as a wedding surprise. Overwhelmed with guilt, Fu Rong recalled her last cruel words to her master, who had treated her like family for over a decade.

The memory strengthened her resolve for vengeance. The wedding procession moved from the Fu Residence to Duke Su’s Residence. In the main hall, guests gathered; the Princess of Xihe fumed over the grand banquet for a mere concubine, Duke Cheng drank heartily, and Duke An thoughtfully adjusted his thumb ring, a quiet signal that a plan was in motion. Inside the bridal chamber, Xu Jin entered and gently lifted Fu Rong's veil.

When she noted a concubine was forbidden to wear a phoenix crown, Xu Jin disregarded the custom, tenderly placing it on her head. In that moment, Fu Rong declared, "A life for a life!" and plunged a dagger into his chest. He gripped her hand, his expression etched with pain as he asked her why.

Pushing her hand to drive the dagger deeper, Xu Jin asked if she truly believed he had killed Liu Ru Yi and had married him solely for revenge. Fu Rong accused him of hiding his visit to her master on the day of the murder and cited the farmer's testimony and the silk thread as proof. Xu Jin admitted to fighting Liu Ru Yi but insisted she was alive when he left to rescue Fu Rong.

He looked at her intently, asking one last time if she believed him, stating his acceptance of the blade was "not to repay a life, but to repay a love." He argued that if he were a murderer, he would have silenced Gu Yuan, not brought her into his home. After wiping the blood from his chest and changing his clothes, Xu Jin appeared in the main hall.

The Princess of Xihe glared at his pale face, while Duke An congratulated him on his new appointment as Chief Commander of the Imperial Guards. When Duke Cheng tried to force a full jug of wine on him, Wu Baiqi intervened. Citing the effects of the wine, Xu Jin excused himself from the banquet, leaving his aide to entertain the guests and a palpable tension hanging in the air.

Episode 20 Recap

Following the wedding night confrontation, Duke An, unwilling to let Fu Rong remain in Duke Su’s residence, proceeds with his plan to abduct her. As Fu Rong, Lan Xiang, and Gu Yuan converse, masked men burst in, knocking the servants unconscious and forcing Fu Rong into the courtyard. Xu Jin intervenes just in time to protect her. The fighting draws others, and as Duke An arrives, a smoke bomb is detonated.

An assassin uses the confusion to attack Xu Jin, but both Wu Baiqi and Duke An throw darts that intercept the assailant, allowing him to escape. Duke An claims his dart was a miss. When Princess of Xihe rushes over, she fusses over Xu Jin's injury and pointedly criticizes Fu Rong for seemingly trying to engage Duke An’s attention while Xu Jin is wounded.

Later, Princess of Xihe and Princess Consort of Qingping intercept the maidservant Qiu Nan, who is bringing water for Xu Jin. Xihe insists on delivering it herself, and Qingping instructs Qiu Nan to report any noteworthy events directly to Xihe. Meanwhile, Duke An's subordinate, Wen Xing, apologizes for the failed abduction and for not finding the Ruyi token in Fu Rong's dowry. An enraged Duke An warns him against further failure.

He recalls a childhood memory of being chased by attackers and finding refuge with a young Fu Rong, whom he affectionately calls "Nong Nong," who bravely protected him and offered him dates. He laments that he allowed her to marry Xu Jin, having hoped she would assassinate him, which would have cleared the path for them to be together.

Now furious that she is trapped, he vows to rescue her and orders Wen Xing to widen the search for the Ruyi token to include other members of Ruyi Pavilion. The next day, Xu Jin and Fu Rong visit the palace. The Emperor inquires about Xu Jin’s injuries, which he downplays, though Consort Shu is clearly distressed. Consort Shu takes Fu Rong to the Imperial Garden, warmly pointing out the "Sunny Bright" jewelry Fu Rong had gifted her.

She expresses her relief that Xu Jin, who has always faced hardships alone, now has a companion, and hopes Fu Rong will care for him. Meanwhile, the Emperor discusses his plan to purge corruption with Xu Jin. He reveals that General Situ of the Huxiao Camp is retiring and that a successor will be chosen through a martial arts competition during the upcoming Imperial hunt, an event Duke An will oversee.

Xu Jin is told to rest and recover for more important duties ahead. As they leave the palace, Duke An secretly passes a note to Fu Rong, arranging a meeting. Elsewhere, Wu Baiqi interrupts a business meeting between Ji Qingting of Feng Lai Yi and a client. Once they are alone, Wu Baiqi confronts him about irregularities in the accounts.

Ji Qingting confesses that he is being extorted by Consort Duan, who is forcing him to use her official seal—the only one besides Wu Baiqi's that can authorize Feng Lai Yi contracts—to funnel money to her. Back at the residence, Xu Jin presents Fu Rong with a hawthorn mixed nut cake. Unaware that she is severely allergic to peanuts, he is puzzled when she gives it to Lan Xiang and Gu Yuan.

To reciprocate his gesture, Fu Rong decides to secretly buy him "Lotus Stamen" wine from a famous shop. Disguised in men's clothing, she and Lan Xiang sneak out, telling an inquisitive Qiu Nan that they are fetching a doctor for Fu Rong's sudden "heatstroke." At the wine shop, Fu Rong has Lan Xiang wait in line while she leaves to meet Duke An. During their clandestine meeting, Fu Rong reveals that she no longer believes Xu Jin murdered her master.

She reasons that if he were the killer, he would not have spared Gu Yuan or allowed Fu Rong to see his injury so soon after the crime. She also questions the testimony of the rice worker who claimed to have seen a man in white. Hearing this, Duke An, who had disguised himself as a rice worker that day, secretly orders Wen Xing to eliminate the witness.

He then offers to help Fu Rong leave Duke Su's residence if she chooses, but cryptically adds that the truth she seeks may be something she can never uncover. When Xu Jin returns, Qiu Nan informs him that Fu Rong has heatstroke and is resting. Finding her room empty, Xu Jin is enraged. He dispatches guards to search the city and orders that all servants on duty be punished for their negligence.

Upon her return, Fu Rong finds the entire household staff kneeling in the courtyard. Xu Jin confronts her, and she admits she left after receiving Duke An's note. Unconcerned with her apologies for disguising herself and leaving without permission, he states that she has missed the point of his anger. He carries her inside as Ge Chuan shouts from the courtyard, trying to make them understand that the Prince is only angry out of concern for her safety.

Xu Jin tells Fu Rong that as his wife, her actions have consequences for everyone in the residence. As Xu Jin departs in anger, Lan Xiang rushes to him, explaining that Fu Rong only left to buy him a thank-you gift and presents the "Lotus Stamen" wine.

Later, Lan Xiang explains the full misunderstanding to a dejected Fu Rong: Xu Jin, thinking she liked the cake, had gone out to buy more, only to return and find Gu Yuan eating the first one. Lan Xiang admits she was too frightened of his fury to explain Fu Rong's peanut allergy.

Meanwhile, Qiu Nan deliberately misleads Fu Rong by telling her that Xu Jin is in a meeting to discuss choosing a "first lady" or main wife, which deeply upsets her. That night, Xu Jin enters their bedroom. Feeling she has failed as a wife—injuring him on their wedding night, causing him trouble, and failing to serve him—Fu Rong suggests they separate. Xu Jin, trying to explain that his anger stems from worry for her safety, is cut off. Believing her presence in the mansion is meaningless beyond being "an extra mouth to feed" and "someone to displease him," Fu Rong repeats her request for a separation.

Episode 21 Recap

Following the tense confrontation that ended with Fu Rong suggesting divorce, Duke Su walked through the streets, carrying two jars of Lotus Stamen wine. As he passed a familiar fortune teller’s stall, he was reminded of Fu Rong, who once told him there that he was destined for great fortune and would become a marquis and a prime minister.

His thoughts then led him to Ruyi Pavilion, recalling a stormy night when he took shelter there, and Fu Rong opened her heart to him, offering advice over a shared umbrella that became a symbol of their growing affection. Now, he found himself alone at Stargazing Tower, a secret hideout he once shared with her, drinking alone.

Meanwhile, Fu Rong also left the residence, believing it best to avoid Duke Su after their talk of divorce, as their presence together would only lead to further resentment. She sought refuge at Ruyi Pavilion, a place steeped in memories of her master, Liu Ru Yi. Her gaze fell upon a peculiar pattern in a wall cabinet, and she remembered Liu Ru Yi once pressing a button at its center.

A strange feeling of a hidden secret, long unnoticed, began to surface. Pressing the button activated a mechanism, revealing a secret room. However, the numerous cabinets meant for storing archives were empty. On a table, a ledger contained a letter—Liu Ru Yi's last words. She wrote to Fu Rong, admitting that she had strayed from the pavilion's rules and embarked on a path that led to her ruin, leaving her with no choice but to end her life.

Liu Ru Yi implored Fu Rong not to investigate her suicide or grieve for her, but instead to live a peaceful and joyful life. Beside Fu Rong, Gu Yuan wept silently as she read the letter, her eyes filled with an unspoken resolve. Upon returning to the residence, Fu Rong, now aware of the truth about Liu Ru Yi's suicide, was confronted by a divorce letter Duke Su had written.

She burned the letter and found a heavily intoxicated Duke Su weeping like a child. He cried out, asking why she wouldn't trust him when he had always been sincere and had even kept his promise not to harm Liu Ru Yi. He felt she was being cruel. Fu Rong gently caressed his face as the divorce letter turned to ashes in the hearth, and she quietly stayed by his side until he drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, Fu Rong presented Liu Ru Yi's letter to Duke Su, assuring him that her suspicions were gone. However, Duke Su, feeling wronged after being doubted for so long, stated he would seriously consider the divorce she had proposed, causing Fu Rong to mutter about his pettiness. To win him back, Fu Rong decided to cook a meal for him herself.

Despite the ensuing chaos in the kitchen and her refusal of any help, she prepared a meal, scalding her hand in the process. At lunch, Duke Su noticed her injury and, despite his nonchalant words, was clearly concerned. Before they could eat, Ge Chuan arrived, informing Duke Su that he was summoned to the palace. At Shang Yang Gate, Wu Baiqi sought an audience with Consort Duan but was denied entry.

Consort Duan sent a message, citing her busyness with the autumn hunt and the impropriety of meeting an outsider man, even her nephew, without important matters. This formal rejection solidified Wu Baiqi's suspicion that Consort Duan was involved in the Feng Lai Yi affair. In Duke Su's Residence, Qiu Nan covertly informed Princess of Xihe about the strained relationship between Duke Su and Fu Rong, noting their big fight the previous night.

Princess of Xihe found it curious that Duke Su, who had once risked his life for Fu Rong, now gave her the cold shoulder. She surmised that something significant must have transpired. Qiu Nan also mentioned overhearing Duke Su discussing the selection of a legitimate consort. Princess of Xihe, keen to uncover the truth, instructed Qiu Nan to investigate further, subtly reminding her that her brother's success in the imperial examination depended on her compliance.

Fu Rong was perched on a tree in the courtyard when Duke Su walked by. She explained she was trying to return a fallen bird to its nest but couldn't get down, fearing ridicule if she called for help. Sensing an opportunity, Ge Chuan quickly led an oblivious Xu Jia away. Duke Su effortlessly climbed the tree, only for the bird's nest to have mysteriously disappeared. Shrugging it off, he offered to help her down.

As he pulled her close, Fu Rong slipped. Duke Su swiftly caught her, but in the process, his old arm wound reopened. Overwhelmed with guilt for injuring him again, she confessed that she was the one who had stabbed him on their wedding night. Unbeknownst to them, Qiu Nan overheard her words from outside the window.

Later, Wu Baiqi arrived at the Fu Residence to drink with Fu Xuan, upset by Consort Duan's apparent betrayal and how kinship could dissolve in the face of personal gain. Fu Xuan stopped him from drinking further, urging him to confront his problems and decide whether to preserve his kinship with Consort Duan or decisively sever ties. Moved, Wu Baiqi called her his guiding light. Feeling better, he playfully tricked her into taking a sip of alcohol.

The unexpected burning sensation angered Fu Xuan, but Wu Baiqi found her reaction endearing and leaned in to kiss her. Their intimate moment was abruptly interrupted by Bao Zhu calling for her lady. News of Fu Rong supposedly stabbing Duke Su reached the Emperor and Consort Shu. The Emperor immediately deemed Fu Rong ill-mannered and decided to select a stable and dignified consort for Duke Su.

Though Duke Su tried to deny the allegations, the Emperor criticized Fu Rong for causing chaos in the residence. Consort Shu agreed that a capable mistress was needed. Duke Su, unable to refuse, requested the right to select the consort himself, to which the Emperor surprisingly agreed. Fu Rong, in the midst of embroidering mandarin ducks, became agitated upon hearing that Duke Su was to choose a new consort from portraits.

Duke Su, seated at his desk, ignored the stack of portraits, preferring to read. It was only when Fu Rong brought him a bowl of soup that he began to examine them closely. Out of jealousy, Fu Rong accidentally spilled soup onto a portrait. Duke Su casually dismissed it, stating he already had someone in mind.

Feigning disinterest, Fu Rong asked who it was, and Duke Su playfully told her he had chosen He Ru Xue, Imperial Preceptor He's eldest daughter, watching with amusement as she pretended not to care. The next morning, Fu Rong noticed her embroidered mandarin ducks missing. She asked Duke Su why he had chosen He Ru Xue. He explained he heard she was virtuous, diligently caring for her half-sister who suffered from measles.

Fu Rong expressed skepticism, stating Imperial Preceptor He strictly adhered to hierarchy and would never allow his legitimate eldest daughter to care for a concubine's daughter. Duke Su only knew their medicine was from Hui Chun Medicine Hall. Later, outside Shanhe Art Studio, Wu Baiqi waited for Fu Xuan and assured her that Duke Su’s devotion to Fu Rong was unwavering. Fu Xuan remained skeptical, stating that love was fleeting.

Wu Baiqi strongly countered, asserting that Duke Su, like himself, would marry a woman he loved for life. He challenged Fu Xuan to a bet: if she was wrong about Duke Su, she would have to attend the upcoming martial arts competition to cheer him on, calling her his "lantern." In the following days, Fu Rong discovered that the He family was collecting medicine for tuberculosis, not measles.

When she reported this to Duke Su, he feigned nonchalance but promised to investigate. The next day, Duke Su himself arrived at Imperial Preceptor He's residence to deliver medicine, ensuring the truth about He Ru Xue's concealed illness would come to light. As expected, the engagement was cancelled. Fu Rong relaxed with relief, but Duke Su immediately dropped another bombshell: the Emperor had now decided on Superintendent Yao's daughter. Fu Rong deflated, lamenting her "ill-fated relationship" with the Yao family.

That evening, Fu Rong secretly followed Duke Su to the Yao Residence. There, they discovered Ms. Yao and a young man named Zhang Sheng attempting to elope. They explained that despite their mutual affection, Ms. Yao's father intended to force her to marry Duke Su. Instead of stopping them, Duke Su gave Zhang Sheng a recommendation letter to an official in Huizhou, which would secure him a position and allow him to study for the imperial examination. With Duke Su's help, Zhang Sheng and Ms. Yao could be together legitimately. Fu Rong watched them leave with a subtle smile, content that Duke Su remained hers.

Episode 22 Recap

When news of the Yao family's predicament reached the Imperial Palace, their funeral preparations were already underway. The Emperor and Consort Shu discussed how both the He and Yao families had suffered from illness or death, leading to widespread rumors in the capital that Duke Su brought bad luck to his wives. Ministers, fearing for their daughters, submitted petitions reporting illness or weakness, making it impossible to arrange further marriages.

Consort Shu, however, dismissed the "wife-cursing" as absurd, though she acknowledged the Imperial Astronomer's prophecy of Duke Su having a singular fate. Despite this, Princess of Xihe, Cui Wan, boldly declared her willingness to marry Duke Su, unafraid of the rumors, and sought the Emperor and Consort Shu's approval. Duke Su, however, interjected, stating he already had someone in mind and would announce his decision the following day.

Meanwhile, Fu Rong found herself quite at ease, enjoying her storybooks amidst the escalating rumors about Duke Su. After witnessing a real-life elopement, she found her stories more vibrant. Upon learning from her servant, Lan Xiang, that the rumors were intensifying—including claims that she too was afflicted—Fu Rong simply accepted it, finding it convenient for a quiet life of reading. When she later sought out Duke Su, he was deliberating on his future legitimate wife.

He ultimately decided that Princess of Xihe would enter his residence the following day, a decision that mirrored Fu Rong's prophetic dream and left her feeling that all her previous efforts had been futile. Qiu Nan, a servant from Duke Su's Residence, had secretly informed Princess of Xihe of this news, leading the Princess to rejoice prematurely.

However, Duke Su soon arrived, confronting Qiu Nan for repeatedly leaking confidential information from his residence and ordering his guard, Xu Jia, to deal with her as an example. Princess of Xihe pleaded on Qiu Nan's behalf, but Duke Su firmly stated the problem was with him, not her, as he had never liked her. Despite her insistence that he could learn to love her, Duke Su reiterated his promise to Fu Rong to marry only her in this life.

Later, Fu Rong was traveling through the streets when Wen Xing, driving Ju Shui Pavilion's carriage, met her; Duke An had invited her to meet. Lan Xiang, a few steps behind, could only watch as Fu Rong boarded the carriage. They arrived at a desolate area where Duke An was roasting fish he had caught from Ping Lake, reminiscing about their childhood fishing trips. Suddenly, a gust of wind extinguished their lanterns, plunging the area into darkness.

As Fu Rong stepped on unstable stones to relight a lantern, she stumbled, but Duke Su appeared just in time to catch her. He had deduced her unauthorized outing from Lan Xiang's expression upon his return to the residence. Duke An, displeased by the interruption, tried to prevent Duke Su from taking Fu Rong, but Duke Su swiftly lifted her onto his shoulder and departed. Back at Duke Su's Residence, Duke Su demanded an explanation.

Fu Rong scoffed, pointing out that he was free to marry another woman, yet she couldn't even speak with an old friend. He challenged her, asking when she and Duke An had become old acquaintances. Frustrated by his lack of trust, Fu Rong defiantly suggested he proceed with a divorce and marry Princess of Xihe, while she would focus on her family and Ruyi Pavilion.

Refusing to let her repeat her words, Duke Su declared he would give her a clear answer the next day, and then kissed her. The next day in the Imperial Palace, the Emperor received news that Princess of Xihe had also fallen ill after catching a cold and being frightened. This marked the third consecutive bride-to-be who had suffered from illness or worse, leaving the Emperor frustrated.

Recognizing the impossibility of the situation, he reluctantly decided to postpone the legitimate consort's marriage for Duke Su. He then sternly instructed Duke Su to discipline Fu Rong. Duke Su defended Fu Rong, claiming she was not ill-mannered and promising to personally oversee her education. Following this, Consort Shu approached the Emperor with an idea. Soon after, a palace servant arrived at Duke Su's Residence, informing Fu Rong that she was summoned to Consort Shu's palace to learn etiquette.

Upon arriving at Consort Shu's palace, Fu Rong found the Consort weeping inconsolably. Consort Shu revealed that the injury Duke Su sustained during their wedding had caused an old cold toxin, contracted during his time at the border, to relapse. His body was inherently cold, and with the recent injury causing the toxin to flare up fiercely, she tragically disclosed that, according to Master Ge, Duke Su might have only a month left to live.

Fu Rong, recalling fragmented memories from her dream of Duke Su's coffin and memorial tablet, began to fear that he might die because of her. Overwhelmed, she confessed to Consort Shu that she was the one who had injured Duke Su, causing his relapse. Seeing Fu Rong's genuine concern, Consort Shu did not blame her.

She explained that Master Ge was searching for a cure, though without success so far, and advised Fu Rong not to let Duke Su know the severity of his condition. To aid in Duke Su's care, Consort Shu dispatched Nanny Yan with Fu Rong back to Duke Su's Residence, outwardly presenting Nanny Yan as an etiquette instructor but secretly tasking her with caring for Duke Su.

As soon as Fu Rong departed, Consort Shu hurriedly rinsed her mouth, explaining that she was spitting out the "ill-intentioned words" she had just spoken, so heaven wouldn't take her lies literally. Later, Master Ge administered acupuncture to Duke Su, and whether intentional or not, struck a numbing point that caused Duke Su to temporarily lose the ability to hold a writing brush.

Fu Rong, witnessing this, recalled Consort Shu's dire words, solidifying her belief that Duke Su truly had only a month remaining. She questioned Master Ge about the cold toxin, learning its nature: it progresses from cold limbs to a full-body chill, ultimately leading to organ failure and death, with no known cure. Distraught, Fu Rong borrowed Master Ge's medical books to assist in finding a remedy, promising to keep it secret.

That evening, she personally prepared a nourishing soup for Duke Su. With a subtle cue from Fu Rong, Master Ge, Xu Jia, and Lan Xiang discreetly excused themselves. Fu Rong then took Duke Su's documents, urging him to rest early and informing him that she would wait for him in their room. This sudden, intense display of affection left Duke Su bewildered.

In the back courtyard of the Fu Residence, Fu Xuan was feeding fish when she saw Wu Baiqi perched atop the wall. She acknowledged that she had lost her previous bet with him, as Duke Su had not married a new legitimate consort. She then understood that Duke Su's actions regarding the He and Yao family daughters, and even Princess of Xihe, were all deliberate strategies to protect Fu Rong.

Noticing Wu Baiqi's discomfort, Fu Xuan asked if he was injured. He admitted to a knee injury from falling off his horse during training but claimed it was minor. He explained that despite his injury, he climbed the wall to ensure Fu Xuan wouldn't go back on her promise to attend the martial arts competition for him. Unseen by Fu Xuan, Guo Rui was struggling to hold Wu Baiqi up from the other side of the wall.

Upon Duke Su's return to his room, Fu Rong quickly set aside her medical books and personally helped him untie his sash. Her unusual enthusiasm puzzled Duke Su. She claimed to have accidentally spilled water on the bed, compelling him to share her bed. Once he lay down, Fu Rong touched his feet, noting how cold they were. She explained that his inherently cold constitution required extra warmth and promptly put a thick pair of cotton socks on him.

Duke Su asked why she was acting so strangely. Feigning annoyance, Fu Rong asked if he thought her concern was unwelcome. Duke Su replied that even if she intended him harm, he would accept it willingly. As they settled under the covers, Duke Su playfully pinned Fu Rong beneath him and teased her. Once Duke Su was sound asleep, Fu Rong quietly rose and continued to pore over medical texts until morning.

She finally discovered a method that seemed to match Duke Su's symptoms: blood transfusion, a perilous procedure that amounted to exchanging one life for another. Master Ge vehemently warned her against such a reckless act, emphasizing its life-threatening nature. However, Fu Rong was resolute, declaring that she felt responsible for Duke Su's condition and was determined to save him. Fu Rong returned to the Fu Residence, bearing an abundance of gifts for her family.

When questioned, she merely stated that Duke Su treated her exceptionally well and that she was now wealthy, assuring them there was no need for concern. She mentioned that while she had returned home alone this time, she would bring Duke Su with her on her next visit. Her sister, Fu Xuan, sensed something was amiss, but Fu Rong deflected, attributing her visit to missing them and promising that she and Duke Su would be safe.

That evening, Fu Rong and Duke Su shared drinks under the moonlight. Fu Rong fondly recalled their last such moment in Hong Village. Duke Su corrected her, revealing that he had been the one to take her home from the Drunken Spring Court on a previous occasion—a detail Fu Rong had no memory of and was frustrated that her sister had kept secret.

Fu Rong clarified her relationship with Duke An, explaining they had only recently reunited after she saved him in their childhood. She then offered Duke Su more wine, stating that she wanted to do something she wouldn't dare do when he was sober.

She admitted her harsh words at Ju Shui Pavilion were born of spite and declared that if given countless opportunities, she would still wait for him there to tell his fortune, assuring him he would be rich and live a long life. After a tender kiss, Duke Su's eyes grew heavy, and he slipped into unconsciousness from the drugged wine. At that moment, Master Ge arrived, and Fu Rong, producing a prepared dagger, entrusted Duke Su to his care.

Episode 23 Recap

As Fu Rong readied a dagger to perform a life-for-life blood exchange, Ge Chuan swiftly threw a coin, knocking the weapon from her grasp and preventing a fatal mistake. The following day, Duke Su, Xu Jin, awakened and Ge Chuan confessed the truth: it had all been a test orchestrated by Consort Shu and the Emperor to ascertain Fu Rong's true feelings.

Enraged by the deception, Xu Jin ordered Nanny Yan back to the palace and punished Ge Chuan with the task of cleaning night soil for a month. When he turned to Fu Rong, however, she expressed only joy that he was alive, showing no anger at all. Seeing her relief, Xu Jin was overcome with tenderness and pulled her into a tight embrace.

Reflecting on her recent actions—delivering tonic soup, inviting him to share their bed, and attempting to get him drunk—Xu Jin realized Fu Rong's intentions were to conceive a "Little Duke Su." Xu Jin then presented Fu Rong with the official letter lifting the ban on Ruyi Pavilion, knowing how much it would please her. True to his expectation, Fu Rong clung to his sleeve affectionately, declaring herself the most obedient and virtuous consort.

Pleased, Xu Jin assured her he would assign guards to protect her when the shop reopened. Later, Xu Jin visited Consort Shu, who acknowledged that her life-threatening test was ill-conceived but was done out of concern for his well-being. Xu Jin reassured her that he bore no resentment, and his mother wished them a blissful and enduring marriage. Ruyi Pavilion officially reopened with Fu Rong presiding as the new manager.

She delivered a heartfelt speech, vowing that her master's lifelong dedication would continue its two-decade legacy in Hengjing by crafting jewelry for all people. The reopening was a great success, with all items offered at a discount for the first three days, drawing a steady stream of noble ladies. Even the owner of the Liangpin Snack Store, a regular vendor, arrived with gifts to offer his congratulations.

Meanwhile, the Emperor summoned Xu Jin, revealing his true motive for reorganizing Huxiao Camp through the martial arts competition. The camp, responsible for guarding the capital, was riddled with corruption. His spies had uncovered a scheme to smuggle weapons out of the capital, likely linked to the previous army ration case in Guanyan Town. Xu Jin surmised that such an operation would require a contact point within the capital and that the weapons would be disguised among other metals.

Given the prevalence of copperware trade in the city, he suggested focusing their investigation on copper shops. The Emperor, pleased with his discernment, entrusted Xu Jin with this critical mission. At Duke Cheng's residence, he and Marquis Xindu discussed Wu Baiqi's exceptional performance. The marquis, known for his avarice, found Huxiao Camp's lucrative operations a significant point of interest.

Acknowledging Wu Baiqi only as an unfilial son, he gave tacit approval to take any necessary action should Wu Baiqi threaten their plans, emphasizing that their larger scheme took precedence. Elsewhere, Wu Baiqi had already sent Ge Chuan to deliver an invitation to the competition to Fu Xuan. Ge Chuan informed her that Wu Baiqi was overjoyed to hear of her new role as Ruyi Pavilion's bookkeeper and intended to personally congratulate her after the competition.

Back at Duke Su's residence, Fu Rong received a crudely made copper hairpin. Initially disdainful, her opinion changed entirely when Xu Jin revealed he had personally made it at a copperware shop, proudly telling the owner it was for his "wife." The hairpin instantly became precious in her eyes. Later, Xu Jin insisted on sleeping on the couch, explaining he had many documents to review for the competition.

Fu Rong pleaded with him to sleep in their bed, but he remained firm. They then promised to go on a vacation together after the competition concluded, with Fu Rong making him swear not to break the promise. At Ju Shui Pavilion, Gu Yuan secretly delivered information about Marquis Xindu to Duke An, confiding that she had no one else to rely on after Liu Ruyi's death. Duke An advised her to avoid visiting during the day for safety.

A flashback revealed the truth of Liu Ruyi’s demise: during a confrontation where Liu Ruyi threatened to expose Duke An, Gu Yuan desperately intervened by holding a dagger to her own throat, pleading for him to be spared. Seizing the distraction, Duke An shoved Liu Ruyi onto Gu Yuan’s dagger, fatally wounding her. He then consoled the distraught Gu Yuan, framing it as an accident that happened while she was protecting him.

Having pledged her loyalty, Gu Yuan revealed the location of Liu Ruyi’s secret room in Ruyi Pavilion, allowing Duke An to empty it before Fu Rong could discover its contents. The martial arts competition commenced in a forest encampment bustling with military fervor. The Emperor delivered a rousing speech, announcing that the victor would be named Valiant General and given command of Huxiao Camp.

For the ladies present, Consort Shu provided floral bands to present to their chosen heroes as tokens of good fortune. Princess Consort of Qingping, Qi Zhu, accidentally bumped into Duke Cheng, but Duke Huai's timely arrival eased the awkward situation. Fu Rong first wished Duke An luck in the competition before heading directly to Xu Jin to present her floral band to him.

Meanwhile, a resentful Princess of Xihe remained in the palace, vowing not to give up on Duke Su as long as Fu Rong was not his official wife. Before Fu Xuan could bestow her floral band, Wu Baiqi found her, insisting he only wanted hers. When Fu Xuan wished him a safe competition rather than victory, Wu Baiqi was pleased by her concern, promising to return safely as he had yet to marry or have children.

During the archery competition, Wu Baiqi skillfully shot a pigeon through the breast, drawing applause. Duke An then shot a thrush through its neck and, seeing its companion flying distraught, declared his intention to "unite" them. However, Xu Jin swiftly fired an arrow that struck Duke An's in mid-air before continuing on to pierce the beak of a parrotbill. The results were announced: Xu Jin placed first, Duke An second, and Wu Baiqi third.

The Emperor expressed his high regard for Wu Baiqi. Later, Wu Baiqi confronted his aunt, Consort Duan, about her management of his shop, Feng Lai Yi. He accused her of embezzlement by overriding his seal, but she dismissed his concerns over "pocket change" and called him ungrateful, reminding him of her role in the shop's success. Wu Baiqi retorted that if he cared about money, he wouldn't have neglected the business, challenging who truly coveted "pocket change."

Consort Duan sternly reminded him of his place, and he respectfully took his leave. An attendant of Duke An brought honey date cakes to Fu Rong, but Xu Jin immediately took them, forbidding her from accepting gifts from other men. He then approached a distracted Wu Baiqi, warning him that Huxiao Camp was a complex and dangerous place and that he should prioritize safety over speed.

Xu Jin then unexpectedly presented the honey date cakes to Wu Baiqi, instructing him to feed them to his horse for extra energy to win the title, leaving Wu Baiqi utterly bewildered. Later, Duke Cheng invited Princess Consort of Qingping for a walk along a secluded path and attempted to take her hand. She firmly rebuffed him, declaring that if he intended to demean her due to her origins, she would rather die by the wild beasts of the forest. She then departed, leaving Duke Cheng alone.

Episode 24 Recap

During a horseback flag hunting competition, competitors navigated obstacles to be the first to reach the finish line and claim a flag. When the command to start was given, horses galloped forward, and many riders were unseated amidst the challenging terrain. Wu Baiqi skillfully overcame the obstacles, retrieved the flag, and rode back to the camp. As he dismounted, a hidden arrow was shot towards him.

Though Xu Jin quickly released a dart that deflected the arrow and broke its shaft, Wu Baiqi was still struck. Despite his injury, he presented the flag, proving his valor. The Emperor praised Wu Baiqi’s bravery and skill, bestowing upon him the title of Valiant General and placing him in command of the Huxiao Camp. The Emperor then ordered Duke An to investigate the origin of the hidden arrow.

Meanwhile, Fu Rong, having seen Qi Zhu leave with Duke Cheng, discreetly followed them. After realizing Qi Zhu was gone, Fu Rong inadvertently overheard a secret conversation, causing Duke Cheng to turn on her with murderous intent. Fu Rong kicked up a pile of leaves to create a distraction and fled. Lan Xiang alerted Xu Jin, who quickly set off in pursuit. A disoriented Fu Rong stumbled into Duke An.

She quickly hid behind him, and Duke An, asserting his authority as a Duke, took her back to his camp, preventing Duke Cheng from pursuing her further. Xu Jin soon arrived to see Duke An holding Fu Rong's hand. He immediately took her from Duke An and, upon noticing a small injury on her hand, scooped her up and carried her away. Clearly jealous, Xu Jin rejected Fu Rong’s attempt to call them even, insisting instead on a hug.

After some playful resistance, Fu Rong relented, and he embraced her, looking utterly content. In his tent, Duke Cheng raged at his subordinates for their failure. He was convinced Duke Su and his wife had forewarned Wu Baiqi. He complained to his uncle-in-law, Marquis Xindu, that the Marquis's mercy was the only reason Wu Baiqi had not suffered a worse fate.

Realizing they could not easily target Wu Baiqi or Xu Jin, Duke Cheng decided to direct his anger towards Fu Rong. Ge Chuan examined the arrow that struck Wu Baiqi and confirmed it was coated with a non-lethal anesthetic; the attacker's intent was not to kill him, but only to prevent him from winning the competition. Relieved that Wu Baiqi was not in mortal danger, Xu Jin went to check on Fu Rong.

Outside, he encountered Fu Xuan wearing Fu Rong’s clothes. Lan Xiang explained that Fu Rong’s attire had gotten dirty, and she had swapped clothes with Fu Xuan for the upcoming banquet. In his tent, a bored Wu Baiqi heard Fu Xuan’s voice outside and began to groan dramatically, feigning severe pain to draw her inside. Delighted by her visit, he soon abandoned his act and enthusiastically recounted his heroic flag-capturing feat, even complimenting his own bravery when Fu Xuan wouldn't.

As Wu Baiqi continued his tale, another arrow suddenly flew through the window, aiming for Fu Xuan. Without hesitation, Wu Baiqi instinctively pulled Fu Xuan out of the way, taking the arrow in his back. Soldiers immediately rushed to assist. As Ge Chuan prepared to remove the arrow, he confirmed it was poisoned, though fortunately, it had not pierced deeply.

Seeing Fu Xuan's tears, Wu Baiqi declared that his wound no longer pained him, only his heart did out of concern for her. He then passed out from the anesthetic, prompting Fu Xuan to rush off to find Xu Jin. Later, by a lake, Xu Jin playfully teased Fu Rong for secretly eating, wiping her mouth with a handkerchief. Fu Rong recognized it as one she thought she had lost, suggesting he had stolen it.

Xu Jin asserted that everything in his residence, including her, belonged to him. As they gazed at the night sky, Xu Jin began meticulously describing the stars of the Big Dipper, until Fu Rong humorously cut him off. That evening, Ge Chuan reported to Xu Jin that an assassin had attacked Wu Baiqi again, confirming he had been shot in the back with a poisoned arrow.

Xu Jin then contemplatively asked Fu Rong if destiny could be altered, suggesting her presence by his side was the best proof that it could. Sensing his strange mood, Fu Rong asked if he had found the assassin, but Xu Jin simply left for his study. The next morning, Xu Jin offered Fu Rong pear soup and inquired about Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, two well-connected wandering swordsmen known for doing business near Ruyi Pavilion.

Fu Rong explained they had received kindness from her master but noted she hadn't seen them lately. Xu Jin suddenly embraced her, assuring her that they would always be inseparable, a sentiment Fu Rong found slightly strange but accepted. Meanwhile, Fu Xuan visited Wu Baiqi at the military camp under the pretense of reviewing the Feng Lai Yi ledgers. Wu Baiqi, having forgotten about the ledgers, happily agreed to send them to her later.

As he was about to escort Fu Xuan out, his deputy, Li Wei, interrupted, insisting it was time for military training. Annoyed, Wu Baiqi ordered all new weapons to be brought out for practice. During a spar with Li Wei, Wu Baiqi's new weapon inexplicably broke. Further inspection revealed that one-sixth of the newly supplied weapons were substandard fakes.

Wu Baiqi concluded that someone was tampering with the armory and they needed to find the culprits' contact point in the capital. Xu Jin returned to his residence late at night to find Fu Rong asleep at her desk, surrounded by jewelry design drafts. He gently carried her to bed, where she stirred awake. She explained she was trying to create new designs based on constellations, inspired by his earlier talk, but confessed her knowledge was limited.

After she fell back asleep, Xu Jin quietly wrote down detailed information about the 28 constellations and placed the notes beside her. He caressed her face, inwardly vowing to settle the life-and-death matters at hand before they could fully enjoy their life together. The next day, Fu Rong discovered the extensive notes in his handwriting. When a new batch of weapons arrived at the Huxiao Camp, Wu Baiqi noticed someone observing him as he oversaw their storage.

Later, corrupt soldiers covertly swapped quality weapons with shoddy ones from the warehouse. They then transported the quality weapons, disguised under farm tools, to a copper-ware shop outside the city. Wen Xing meticulously observed this entire operation from the shadows. Elsewhere, Duke An met with Wu Baiqi, revealing that the assassins from the hunting ground had fled to Kushui Village, a place Marquis Xindu was known to frequent.

Claiming a personal agenda, Duke An said he had not yet reported this to the Emperor and sought Wu Baiqi's opinion. Though Wu Baiqi found it hard to believe his father would harm him, he remarked that money can be thicker than blood, suspecting the Marquis's true motives. He requested Duke An to withhold the information from the Emperor for now, and Duke An agreed.

Afterward, Duke An's subordinate, using information from Gu Yuan, confirmed that Marquis Xindu's contact point in the capital was indeed the copper-ware shop. Duke An then unveiled his elaborate scheme: they would attack the shop and leave behind evidence implicating Duke Su. This would make Marquis Xindu believe Duke Su knew everything, forcing him to act preemptively against the Duke. Duke Su, in turn, would be forced to retaliate, allowing Duke An to reap the benefits of their conflict. Duke An then ordered his men to attack the copper-ware shop that very night.

Episode 25 Recap

Lord Xindu learns from his subordinate that the copperware shop has suddenly closed early, and their contact, Mr. He, is missing. Although Mr. He is nowhere to be found, a burnt letter bearing Duke Su's stamp was discovered at his home. The subordinate also saw the Little Marquis's men outside the Xindu Residence, confirming that Duke Su has discovered their involvement in the hunting ground assassination.

Believing Duke Su is already investigating, Lord Xindu declares it's too late to hold back and that they must act first. He orders all people from Kushui Village to be evacuated overnight. Duke Su learns of the sudden closure of the copperware shop and the loss of contact with his spy.

Fearing they have alerted the enemy, he quickly dispatches Wu Baiqi to Huxiao Camp, Ge Chuan to inform the Emperor, and Xu Jia to accompany him to Kushui Village, vowing to catch the culprits red-handed. He also sends an urgent message for the Imperial Guards to immediately send reinforcements, emphasizing that he is in great danger. Meanwhile, inside the palace, Princess Xihe overhears Eunuch Wang discussing Duke Su's perilous situation and Kushui Village.

Despite Eunuch Wang's attempts to keep the confidential matter from her, Princess Xihe insists on knowing the truth. She then rushes out of the palace. Outside, she encounters Fu Rong, who is on her way to the workshop for Ruyi Pavilion's new product launch. Princess Xihe anxiously asks Fu Rong about Duke Su, realizing he has not returned from the palace and might have gone to Kushui Village.

Sensing Princess Xihe's distress and connecting it to the urgent news, Fu Rong deduces that Duke Su is indeed in danger and quickly follows. In Kushui Village, Lord Xindu frantically urges his men to speed up the weapon transportation. Suddenly, a barrage of arrows strikes, causing many to fall. Lord Xindu himself is hit and instructs his remaining men to help him flee.

As he attempts to escape, he is confronted by Duke Su, who questions his involvement in the Huxiao Camp affairs and accuses him of brazenly smuggling weapons. Duke Su demands a full confession, promising leniency for Lord Xindu's subordinates and family if he complies. Lord Xindu retorts that Duke Su is forcing him into a corner. Desperate, Lord Xindu offers to reveal everything if Duke Su guarantees the safety of his family.

Just as the confrontation intensifies, Princess Xihe rushes onto the scene, calling out Duke Su's name and expressing profound relief that he is unharmed. Seizing the distraction, one of Lord Xindu's subordinates hurls a poisoned dart. Without hesitation, Princess Xihe pushes Duke Su out of the way, taking the dart in her right side. Lord Xindu escapes in the ensuing chaos. Duke Su orders his men to pursue Lord Xindu but focuses on attending to the gravely wounded Princess Xihe.

Fu Rong soon arrives and, observing Princess Xihe's critical condition, suggests taking her back to Duke Su's Residence, where there are more servants and medicine for proper care. Duke Su agrees, thanking Fu Rong for her foresight and assistance. Princess Xihe's life is saved thanks to Ge Chuan's prompt medical attention; the toxin has been cleared, and her wound, though needing time to heal, is stable. Despite her improving condition, she pleads with Duke Su not to leave.

She remarks on his unusual gentleness, the first she's experienced since his return to the capital, and questions why he has become so "cold and mean" towards her. She then recounts her childhood, remembering how Duke Cheng bullied her when she first entered the palace, and how Duke Su bravely fought them off. He also instilled in her the belief that her father was a great hero. For her, Duke Su is also her great hero, just like her father.

Duke Su, emphasizing her need for rest, assures her that he will watch over her through the night. Lord Xindu, cornered in a mountain forest, finds himself surrounded by soldiers. Wu Baiqi appears, setting the stage for a long-awaited confrontation. Lord Xindu remarks that since he gave Wu Baiqi life, it is now Wu Baiqi's turn to take his.

Wu Baiqi retorts that he has no interest in taking his life, stating Lord Xindu will face public scorn at his execution. Recognizing his impending death, Lord Xindu pleads for Wu Baiqi to hear his final words. He admits he has profoundly wronged Wu Baiqi and his mother. Wu Baiqi furiously accuses him of causing his mother's death with his womanizing ways and deceit, questioning his right to even utter her name.

Lord Xindu concedes his lack of right and acknowledges it's too late for amends. He claims that, before her death, Wu Baiqi's mother stated she had no regrets about marrying him and would even do so again, a claim Wu Baiqi dismisses as a lie. Lord Xindu then speaks of the small puppet Wu Baiqi used to play with as a child, revealing he still keeps it as a reminder of their once-happy family.

Wu Baiqi cuts him off, asking the futility of such talk now. Lord Xindu kneels, promising to make amends if fate reunites them in the next life. As Wu Baiqi reaches out to help his father, Lord Xindu unexpectedly plunges a blade into his chest, using his own son as a shield. He then leverages the wounded Wu Baiqi to demand a horse and makes his escape.

After using his wounded son, Wu Baiqi, to secure a horse, Lord Xindu swiftly returns to Xindu Residence. He orders the immediate closure of all doors and windows and gathers his wife and their son, Zhang Yan, urging Zhang Yan to be strong and take care of his mother. He confesses to having committed terrible things, warning that if the investigation continues, none of them will survive.

He also reveals his fear that Duke Cheng would not spare them to protect himself. Outside, Duke Su arrives with his forces and demands the residence's gates be opened. Wu Baiqi, knowing his father's habits, correctly deduces that Lord Xindu is in the study, which he considers his last refuge. Duke Su and Wu Baiqi confront Lord Xindu at the study door.

Lord Xindu attempts to bargain, offering to reveal all details regarding the weapon flow and the Guanyan Town army ration case if Duke Su guarantees the safety of his wife and son. When Wu Baiqi accuses him of deceit, Lord Xindu erupts in a tirade, branding Wu Baiqi an unfilial son and a beast, declaring that the sight of him is nauseating and demanding he leave. Duke Su allows Wu Baiqi to leave and enters the study alone.

Lord Xindu initially attempts a casual conversation but then abruptly states they will continue their conversation "in another place." Moments later, a powerful explosion rips through the study. Duke Su manages to escape, but Lord Xindu, along with all the crucial evidence, is consumed by the raging fire. The following day in court, the Emperor vehemently denounces Lord Xindu's brazen act of smuggling weapons.

He orders all officials with close ties to Lord Xindu to be suspended and investigated, instructs the restructuring of Huxiao Camp, and mandates a thorough re-investigation of all shipping documents. The Emperor then commends Duke Su and General Wu Baiqi for their crucial contributions and rewards them. He emphasizes that the case is far from over, specifically the whereabouts of the stolen weapons, and grants Duke Su full authority to investigate further.

After the court session, the Emperor converses with Duke An, with Duke Su present. Duke An suggests that had the Imperial Guards arrived earlier, the situation might have unfolded differently, though Duke Su dismisses this, stating Lord Xindu's decision to die rendered the timing irrelevant. Duke An then offers to return his military authority over the Imperial Guards to Duke Su.

However, he subtly raises concerns, recalling how Duke Su nearly abandoned the Imperial Guards for a woman, which has left soldiers disgruntled. Duke An adds that with circulating rumors that Duke Su brings ill fortune to his wives, the soldiers might believe his consort, Fu Rong, is manipulating him for power, further fueling their animosity. In the days following his father's death, Wu Baiqi plunges into a near-mad frenzy, relentlessly training at Huxiao Camp.

He neglects food and sleep, grappling with the inexplicable nature of his father's demise. He struggles to discern his father's true intentions, eventually realizing that his father's final, harsh words were a desperate act of protection. This revelation shatters the foundation of his deeply rooted hatred, leaving him emotionally adrift. Unable to watch Wu Baiqi suffer, Duke Su intervenes.

He engages Wu Baiqi in a brief sparring match, then patiently and silently listens as the heartbroken young man weeps uncontrollably, providing a much-needed outlet for his tumultuous grief. While Princess Xihe recuperates at Duke Su's Residence, she feigns blindness to prolong her stay. Despite Ge Chuan confirming her recovery, she adamantly refuses to return to the palace, stating its vast emptiness frightens her. When Duke Su approaches, she pretends to be distressed.

She even calls Fu Rong "fake," believing Fu Rong wished her dead in Kushui Village. Fu Rong, however, sees through the pretense. She tells Duke Su she knows Princess Xihe is faking, but tolerates it out of dedication to him. When asked if she's upset, Fu Rong denies it, admitting she was touched by Princess Xihe's earlier expressions of affection for Duke Su.

She acknowledges Princess Xihe's feelings are genuine, albeit misguidedly expressed, and even finds her elaborate feigning of blindness "cute." Duke Su quickly counters that Princess Xihe is "not as cute as you." A heavy rain descends upon Lord Xindu's unmarked grave. Wu Baiqi sits by the tombstone, consuming alcohol, allowing the rain to wash over him. Fu Xuan arrives, holding an umbrella to shield him.

Wu Baiqi muses aloud whether his father's final actions—saving him from the explosion—were meant to earn him the title of a "good father" and absolve his guilt. Fu Xuan suggests that perhaps Lord Xindu never truly felt indebted, believing his desires were his rightful due, but also acknowledges the complexities of human nature, proposing that in that life-or-death situation, Lord Xindu might have saved Wu Baiqi out of genuine fatherly love.

Wu Baiqi, his voice heavy with emotion, dismisses the notion of fatherly love, declaring, "The grace of begetting me and the sin of harming my mother seep into the soil like rain. Gone forever in this life." He then pours the remaining alcohol onto the grave and bows deeply, a symbolic gesture severing all ties. Later, as Fu Xuan accompanies Wu Baiqi, she recalls an important matter.

She mentions that she had visited him more than once at Huxiao Camp during his recent seclusion. She explains that since last month, Ji Qing Ting has been actively preventing her from accessing Feng Lai Yi's ledgers. Coupled with Wu Baiqi's recent preoccupation, Feng Lai Yi has become even more restrictive. Fu Xuan voices her concern, suspecting that something significant might be amiss at Feng Lai Yi.

Episode 26 Recap

Confined to Duke Su's residence with a feigned eye injury, the Princess of Xihe demands Duke Su's constant presence, claiming she is afraid of the dark. Seeing through her ruse, Duke Su dismisses his attendants, leaving Fu Rong to handle the situation. The Princess is startled to discover Fu Rong instead of Duke Su and angrily demands she leave. Unfazed, Fu Rong embraces the Princess, gently coaxing her to sleep.

Outside the room, Duke Su hears the commotion and smiles, confident in Fu Rong's ability to manage the guest. The Emperor summons Duke Su, offering to reinstate him as the head of the Jinyi Guards to investigate a case. However, the Emperor notes that Duke Su's previous dismissal was due to Fu Rong, causing resentment among the soldiers. To appease them, Duke Su must either marry a principal consort or divorce Fu Rong.

Duke Su politely declines the position, stating that if the soldiers remain resentful, he should not accept it. He requests the Emperor return the gold seal to Duke An, who had already relinquished it, preferring scholarly pursuits. Meanwhile, at Feng Lai Yi, Wu Baiqi confronts the new manager, Ji Qing Ting, about the shop's ledgers.

Ji Qing Ting smugly reveals that while Wu Baiqi was grieving, Consort Duan had him sign transfer documents at the Chamber of Commerce, making Feng Lai Yi legally hers. He explains that since the ten-day protest period has passed, Wu Baiqi has no legal recourse. Enraged, Wu Baiqi draws his sword and holds it to Ji Qing Ting's throat. Fu Xuan intervenes, grabbing the blade bare-handed to stop him. Wu Baiqi immediately sheathes his sword, shaken.

Outside, Wu Baiqi anxiously checks Fu Xuan's hand, relieved she is unharmed. He laments that Feng Lai Yi was his mother's legacy and Consort Duan exploited his despair. Fu Xuan reassures him, promising to help reclaim it. Back at Duke Su's residence, the Princess of Xihe continues her act, complaining to Duke Su that Fu Rong disturbed her rest. Behind the Princess's back, Duke Su and Fu Rong share a quiet moment of gratitude.

Later, Fu Xuan visits Wu Baiqi with flu medicine. They devise a plan to reclaim Feng Lai Yi. Fu Xuan explains that Consort Duan, wary of Ji Qing Ting's potential embezzlement, uses three separate stamps for the business. They conspire to sow discord between Consort Duan and Ji Qing Ting by having Ruyi Pavilion's upcoming product launch divert business from Feng Lai Yi. When Consort Duan sees the reduced income, she will inevitably suspect Ji Qing Ting of skimming profits.

That evening, Duke Su gives Fu Rong a back massage as she worries about Ruyi Pavilion's launch. He informs her that the Emperor wants him to investigate the missing weapons in Kushui Village, meaning he will be away. Fu Rong expresses relief that he can complete his mission, feeling guilty for his previous dismissal. While giving him a massage in return, she discovers he is ticklish.

Duke Su jokes that a ticklish man is said to fear his wife, and they share a tender kiss, unknowingly witnessed by the Princess of Xihe from the doorway. The next morning, the Princess is found in the garden, destroying flowers with shears. Xu Jin appears, takes the shears, and calmly states that since her eyes are clearly healed, she can return to the palace the next day. Distraught, the Princess retreats to her room.

Fu Rong visits her, presenting a hairpin with a "Rooftop" constellation design. She explains that people of this sign, while ill-tempered, are kind-hearted. Fu Rong admits she only tolerated the Princess's behavior because the Princess had once saved Duke Su's life, urging her to not become the kind of person she once despised. The Princess, moved, decides to return to the palace. Elsewhere, Ji Qing Ting secures a large deal and sends for Consort Duan's stamp.

On his way to sign the documents, Wu Baiqi intentionally bumps into him, apologizing profusely while discreetly stealing the stamp. Wu Baiqi later explains to Fu Xuan that he deliberately revealed himself so that Ji Qing Ting, if questioned, would blame him instead of Ruyi Pavilion, further fueling conflict between him and Consort Duan. Ruyi Pavilion reopens, showcasing a new collection inspired by constellations. The pieces are a huge success.

Mr. Ju Shui (Duke An in disguise) visits and, in private, tells Fu Rong that he has returned the command of the Jinyi Guards to Duke Su. He also relays the Emperor's condition for full reinstatement: marrying a principal consort or divorcing Fu Rong. After he leaves, Duke Su arrives to congratulate her. He tells Fu Rong he must leave for Kushui Village but will leave his men to protect her.

Fu Rong, feigning indifference, simply asks him to write to her. As planned, Consort Duan's subordinate confronts Ji Qing Ting about the missing stamp and the failed deal. Ji Qing Ting blames Wu Baiqi, but the subordinate is unconvinced and warns him that if profits don't meet expectations, Consort Duan will assume he is embezzling funds. Meanwhile, Fu Rong struggles to design affordable jewelry for commoners. A hairpin made from a crossbow arrow sent by Duke Su proves impractical.

She discovers an old, simple design by her master, Liu Ruyi, that was never made because the craftsman, Master Xu, had retired. Fu Rong tracks down Master Xu and, introducing herself as Liu Ruyi's disciple, asks to learn his craft. Master Xu, saddened to hear of Liu Ruyi's passing, agrees to teach her on one condition: she must first find the legendary "seven-color light." Fu Rong is stumped by the task. Soon after, Wu Baiqi and Fu Xuan visit.

Hearing of her quest, Wu Baiqi's eyes light up, and he takes her to a dye workshop where soap bubbles refract sunlight into vibrant rainbows. " This is the seven-color light," he declares. Fu Rong clarifies that she needs a "seven-color light stone" for crafting jewelry, not just the light itself, but she appreciates the beautiful sight.

Episode 27 Recap

Fu Rong sought Master Xu's appraisal for a glazed thimble, but he quickly dismissed it as not being the Seven Colour Sparkler, complaining that she had wasted his time. As rain approached, Fu Rong, noticing Master Xu's dye ingredients and plants left outside, attempted to shelter them with large lotus leaves. Xu Jin arrived just in time to assist her, deftly cutting several leaves.

They took shelter, and Xu Jin revealed he had given his umbrella to an old man on his way. This old man turned out to be Master Xu himself, who, grateful for their help, decided to teach Fu Rong the intricate filigree inlay technique. Back at Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Rong eagerly began designing new pieces with Xu Jin by her side reviewing official documents.

Their efforts resulted in the Suhua Hairpin, a design praised for its charm, security, and elegant simplicity, which also did not snag hair. This innovation marked Ruyi Pavilion's successful venture into affordable, everyday accessories. When Xu Jin reported to the Emperor, he was questioned about the matter of divorce, which he admitted he had not considered. This angered the Emperor, who upset a water bucket, soaking Xu Jin's clothes and shoes.

Xu Jin went to Consort Shu's palace to change, where Zhi Hui showed him numerous pairs of shoes Consort Shu had handmade for him over the years, never sent, noting that they were designed with thick soles and leather linings for someone with cold feet. Xu Jin realized his mother's silent, continuous care. Later, Fu Rong learned from Zhi Hui that Consort Shu often suffered from sore wrists due to her needlework.

Fu Rong then took the safflower cream Xu Jin had left for her and sent it to Consort Shu, implying it was from Xu Jin. Consort Shu was delighted to see Fu Rong, praising her as a wise daughter-in-law who had truly managed to make the common people happy with Ruyi Pavilion's offerings.

Zhi Hui also mentioned that Consort Shu had pricked her finger while making another pair of shoes for Xu Jin overnight, fearing he might not like the previous ones. Fu Rong ensured these new shoes reached Xu Jin, who, upon receiving them, couldn't help but smile subtly. Attendant Chen from the Wardrobe Service reported to the Emperor and Consort Shu that the palace needed new jewelry for the upcoming season.

However, she noted that other private jewelers were hesitant to work with the palace after Ruyi Pavilion had inadvertently offended Consort Shu previously. Attendant Chen suggested a selection process to find a suitable jeweler for the palace. The Emperor entrusted Consort Shu with this task. News of the selection reached Ruyi Pavilion. Ji Qing Ting, the proprietor of Feng Lai Yi, confronted Fu Rong, mocking Ruyi Pavilion's "cheap" reputation and suggesting she decline the invitation to participate.

Fu Rong, however, accepted the challenge, stating her intention for Ruyi Pavilion to cater to both commoners and nobles, thereby elevating their reputation and showcasing their refined craftsmanship. When Xu Jin heard of Fu Rong's decision, far from being upset about her involvement in palace affairs, he encouraged her to do her best and not worry.

Meanwhile, at Fu Residence, Wu Baiqi, comically disguised in bamboo leaves, questioned Bao Zhu about Fu Xuan, learning that Fu Xuan was worried about Fu Rong's upcoming jewelry competition. Wu Baiqi decided to help by inviting women of various social classes to Sifang Pavilion to gather their preferences for jewelry. Fu Xuan, arriving at Sifang Pavilion, saw a long queue of women waiting to see Wu Baiqi and, misunderstanding his intentions, left in a huff.

Separately, Xu Jin obtained a Magic Dew Stone for Fu Rong, claiming he merely stumbled upon it during his latest assignment. They visited Master Xu, who, upon seeing the stone, immediately mentioned the remote and beast-infested Qingdian Valley where it originates, inadvertently revealing Xu Jin's concealed injuries. Fu Rong grew angry, realizing Xu Jin had once again hidden something from her.

Master Xu confirmed that the Magic Dew Stone was not the Seven Colour Sparkler but offered Fu Rong another cryptic hint, leaving her to ponder the rest. Following Master Xu's hint, Fu Rong and Xu Jin embarked on a boat ride on a tranquil lake. They enjoyed the serene beauty, expressing their desire for a simple, shared life together.

As darkness fell, Xu Jin grilled fish, playfully asking Fu Rong to compare its taste to Duke An's, causing her to remark on its sudden "sour" flavor. Under the vast, star-filled sky, they spotted a bright, shimmering conch on the lakeshore, its colors shifting between blue and green. Fu Rong, overjoyed, realized she had finally found the Seven Colour Sparkler.

Shortly after, Wu Baiqi visited Ruyi Pavilion, bringing a substantial surprise: a meticulously compiled collection of women's preferred jewelry styles, complete with design ideas and craftsmanship notes, gathered from his meetings at Sifang Pavilion. Fu Xuan, who had previously misunderstood his intentions, now realized her mistake and felt embarrassed. This comprehensive resource proved invaluable for Fu Rong's competition preparations.

With Master Xu's final guidance on the Luodian technique, which combined filigree inlay with a hammering method, and Wu Baiqi's valuable design references, Fu Rong created a magnificent golden hairpin. However, Ji Qing Ting, with malicious intent, secretly acquired Ruyi Pavilion's design. On the day of the competition, attended by the Emperor, Consort Shu, and Consort Duan, various jewelers presented their works.

When Feng Lai Yi was called, Ji Qing Ting proudly unveiled a golden hairpin, claiming it as their latest invention and demonstrating the very techniques Fu Rong had refined. Fu Rong inwardly noted his blatant theft but remained calm. When it was her turn, she confidently stepped forward, not presenting the golden hairpin that Ji Qing Ting had copied, but revealing her true, distinctive masterpiece: an exquisite Lotus Crown.

Episode 28 Recap

After the presentation of Feng Lai Yi's plagiarized design, Fu Rong prepared her backup entry. However, her troubles weren't over, as Gu Yuan accidentally dropped the newly-completed hairpin into the furnace, destroying it. With time running out, Fu Rong modified one of Liu Ru Yi's old coronet drafts, using existing jewelry and shell pearl pieces to create a stunning lotus crown.

At the presentation, Consort Duan dismissed Ruyi Pavilion's work as mere fancy knick-knacks, though she noted the craftsmanship was suspiciously similar to Feng Lai Yi's and questioned its artisan, Ji Qing Ting. The Emperor, however, praised the crown as luxurious yet tasteful. Fu Rong explained its symbolism: the lotus for purity, the petals for the empire's people, and the central pearl for the prosperity of Dayu under his rule, impressing him with her thoughtfulness.

Just as the Emperor requested a closer look, the crown was presented, revealing the central pearl had turned black. Consort Duan immediately accused Fu Rong of using inferior materials and deceiving the Emperor. The sabotage was, in fact, the work of Princess Consort of Qingping, Qi Zhu. Intercepting the crown on its way to the presentation, she secretly applied a powder to the pearl as part of a contingency plan.

Fu Rong denied the accusation, insisting she used the finest pearls. Granted permission to inspect it, she detected a pungent scent. At that moment, Princess of Xihe, Cui Wan, arrived wearing a hairpin Fu Rong had gifted her. Borrowing the hairpin and a bowl of hot water, Fu Rong explained that the rushed lotus crown lacked the protective coating applied to other Ruyi Pavilion pieces, making it susceptible to silver nitrate, which she had smelled.

By dissolving the protective layer from Cui Wan's hairpin in the water, she cleaned the pearl, restoring its original luster. The Emperor absolved Fu Rong, praising the lotus crown as a masterpiece and awarding Ruyi Pavilion the contract to craft the palace's jewelry. Consort Duan, her plagiarism scheme foiled, suspected Ji Qing Ting was a weak link and decided to investigate him, while Qi Zhu assured her she had another plan to eliminate Fu Rong.

Pleased that Fu Rong was safe, Xu Jin instructed his men to keep a close watch on Ruyi Pavilion, certain Consort Duan would retaliate. Later, while walking through the city, Xu Jin and Fu Rong saw children flying kites. Admitting he'd never done so, Fu Rong promised to make one for them to fly together, and Xu Jin offered to teach her archery in return.

Their moment was cut short when Ge Chuan brought news of a lead on Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, forcing Xu Jin to depart. Soon after, Attendant Chen delivered the palace materials to Ruyi Pavilion. Fu Rong diligently verified every item before stamping the two copies of the handover document. That night, Ruyi Pavilion's artisans were ambushed and brutally beaten, their hands injured so severely they couldn't work.

Meanwhile, Ji Qing Ting gloated, having hired thugs to besiege Ruyi Pavilion's entrance after they posted recruitment notices, aiming to disrupt their operations. Distressed by the attacks and the siege, Fu Rong visited an injured artisan, Master Han. There, she discovered a uniquely designed hairpin made by his son. Recognizing the boy’s raw talent, she hired him and, inspired, instructed Gu Yuan to recruit the apprentices of the other injured artisans, quickly assembling a new team.

As the thugs continued to cause chaos, Xu Jin, already concerned about reports that Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba were being pursued by assassins, learned of the trouble at Ruyi Pavilion. He confronted the mob, challenging them to identify the material of a white chess piece. When they all failed, he dismissed them as frauds and had Xu Jia swiftly subdue them. Under pressure, a thug confessed that Ji Qing Ting of Feng Lai Yi had hired them.

When the Emperor heard, Consort Duan quickly appeared before him, feigning ignorance and "righteously" disavowing Ji Qing Ting. Claiming he had acted out of resentment, she urged the Emperor to punish him severely. In reality, she had already confirmed Ji Qing Ting was bribed by Wu Baiqi and decided to eliminate the disloyal subordinate who knew too much.

Fu Rong was perplexed by Consort Duan’s actions, but soon joined Xu Jin in the courtyard as he began making a kite for her. Their quiet moment was again interrupted by Ge Chuan, informing Xu Jin he must leave again for a few days. Elsewhere, Wu Baiqi explained to Fu Xuan that Consort Duan's move was a calculated one to eliminate a pawn while gaining the Emperor’s favor.

He planned to approach Consort Duan to repurchase Feng Lai Yi, but Fu Xuan remained skeptical, believing the matter was far from over. Her instincts proved correct. After Ruyi Pavilion delivered the finished jewelry, Consort Duan dramatically confronted Fu Rong, accusing her of embezzling materials. She presented a handover document bearing Ruyi Pavilion's stamp but listing a far greater quantity of silver than Fu Rong's copy.

The Emperor arrived and, to verify the claim, sent for the copy kept at Ruyi Pavilion. To everyone's shock, that document had also been altered to show the inflated numbers. With seemingly irrefutable evidence against her, Fu Rong’s protests of being framed were dismissed. The Emperor declared her guilty, ordered her imprisonment in the Criminal Investigation Bureau Jail, and sealed Ruyi Pavilion. From afar, Duke An deduced the plot was aimed at Xu Jin, not just Fu Rong.

He resolved to exploit the situation, predicting Xu Jin's inevitable pleas to the Emperor would create a conflict he could use to separate the couple while also securing Fu Rong's rescue. Believing Consort Duan lacked the cunning for such a scheme, he ordered his subordinate to find the true mastermind behind her. Meanwhile, Consort Duan and Qi Zhu celebrated their victory, having arranged for Duke Cheng to hide the "stolen" materials.

In a remote location, Xu Jin found Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba. They immediately accused him of murdering Liu Ru Yi, revealing Gu Yuan had told them Xu Jin was the last to see her alive after an argument. Xu Jin countered by telling them of the suicide note Fu Rong found, but they vehemently denied she would ever abandon Ruyi Pavilion. Vowing to uncover the truth themselves, they departed, with Xu Jin's men secretly following.

Upon his return, Xu Jin was met with the devastating news of Fu Rong's imprisonment and Ruyi Pavilion's closure. At the now-empty shop, Fu Xuan wept in despair, comforted only by Wu Baiqi, who silently offered her a handkerchief.

Episode 29 Recap

Fu Rong, Duke Su's concubine, was imprisoned, with no one allowed to visit her. Wu Baiqi, though unable to see Fu Rong himself, managed to have clothes delivered to her. He assured Fu Xuan that Duke Su had returned to the capital and gone to the palace, expecting a quick resolution. Meanwhile, the Emperor, discussing the matter with Duke An, expressed his belief that Fu Rong was not foolish enough to steal palace materials, especially with such a sloppy method.

He suspected the true target of this elaborate scheme was Duke Su, who had been diligently investigating corruption since his return. Duke An agreed that Fu Rong, being merely the daughter of the Hengjing County Magistrate, was a convenient weakness for Duke Su, unlike a powerful noble like the Princess of Xihe. The Emperor's main concern was that as long as Fu Rong was with Duke Su, he would refuse to choose a formal wife.

Duke An proposed leveraging the current situation to arrange a divorce between them, reasoning that while Duke Su would never agree, Fu Rong might consent to protect herself and Duke Su. Duke Su then arrived at the palace. Before the Emperor, Duke Su pleaded guilty for failing to keep his wife in check, but he questioned the evidence, specifically asking if the alleged stolen materials had been recovered, noting that nothing was found at Ruyi Pavilion.

He suspected hidden motives and requested a thorough investigation. Despite the Emperor's assertion that the evidence, including Attendant Chen's testimony and the handover document, was sufficient, Duke Su insisted he knew Fu Rong's character well. He passionately requested seven days to prove her innocence, vowing that if he failed, he would willingly guard the late Empress's tomb forever and never return to the capital. The Emperor, after a moment, granted his request.

At the Fu Residence, young Guan Ge innocently asked to fly kites, unaware of Fu Rong's plight. Wu Baiqi arrived, informing Fu Xuan that Duke Su had secured seven days from the Emperor to clear Fu Rong's name, urging them to have faith in Duke Su despite the tight deadline.

Though Duke Su was barred from visiting Fu Rong in prison, he sent her daily deliveries of Ruyi dates, her favorite treat, along with notes that conveyed his unwavering support and affection, reassuring her not to worry and that he would take care of everything. Back at Duke Su's Residence, Gu Yuan confirmed that the materials for the Ruyi Pavilion's items were crafted precisely according to Attendant Chen's bill, with no excess.

This indicated that the problem lay with the handover documents, which had been securely kept until palace staff retrieved them. Gu Yuan suspected the Criminal Investigation Bureau, known for its close ties with Duke Cheng, of tampering with the documents. Duke Su then summoned Attendant Chen, who maintained she had only reported the truth and sent all evidence to the Criminal Investigation Bureau. Duke Su warned her against lying, emphasizing he would not forgive anyone found to be dishonest.

Following her interrogation, Attendant Chen reported to Consort Duan, boasting about her loyalty and tight lips. Consort Duan and Duke Cheng, however, viewed Attendant Chen as a potential liability, given Duke Su's persistent investigation. Duke Cheng cynically noted that only the dead keep secrets. Consort Duan then plotted to send Attendant Chen out of the palace on an errand, allowing Duke Cheng to deal with her.

As planned, Attendant Chen was ambushed outside the palace, but Duke Su arrived just in time to save her. He pressed her for the truth, stressing that he could not protect her if she continued to lie. With her life hanging in the balance, Attendant Chen confessed everything: Consort Duan had seized a batch of materials from the palace storehouse.

Attendant Chen then used citrus juice as a special ink to write false figures on both copies of the handover document. After Fu Rong verified them, Attendant Chen took her copy back to the palace, heated it to make the juice disappear, and then wrote the correct numbers. For Ruyi Pavilion's copy, Duke Cheng's men from the Criminal Investigation Bureau swapped it during their collection.

She also vaguely recalled hearing that the seized materials were secretly transported by Duke Cheng to Weiyang City in Linzhou. Duke Su arranged for Attendant Chen to stay in a guesthouse under protection, strictly warning her not to leave alone. However, fearing that Duke Su could not fully protect her from Consort Duan and Duke Cheng, Attendant Chen fled during the night and was subsequently found dead.

Consort Duan and Duke Cheng were relieved by her death, acknowledging that while Duke Su might have learned some truths, he now had no living witness to corroborate his claims. Duke Cheng assured Consort Duan that the stolen materials were securely hidden, making it impossible for Duke Su to prove anything. Upon discovering Attendant Chen's body, Duke Su realized that the only remaining way to prove Fu Rong's innocence was to find the batch of stolen palace materials.

He instructed Mr. Ge to remain in the capital to gather information and departed with Xu Jia for Weiyang City. Meanwhile, Eunuch Wang informed the Emperor of Attendant Chen's death, noting that it would now be exceedingly difficult to clear Fu Rong's name. The Emperor saw this as an opportune moment to compel Duke Su and Fu Rong to divorce and subtly hinted to Eunuch Wang to guide the Princess of Xihe towards Duke Su's location in Weiyang City.

The Emperor then visited Fu Rong in prison. He informed her of Duke Su's seven-day deadline to prove her innocence, and his vow to guard the late Empress's tomb if he failed. He then delivered the grim news of Attendant Chen's death, emphasizing the near impossibility of proving her innocence now. The Emperor pressed Fu Rong, asking why misfortune consistently followed her, suggesting she had become Duke Su's weakness, causing him to act impulsively and potentially leading to his demise.

He proposed that if she wished to save Duke Su, she should divorce him, giving her the night to consider. Fu Rong spent the entire night contemplating, rereading Duke Su's reassuring notes. Ultimately, she signed the divorce agreement, reciting a poignant verse about the dissolution of a harmonious marriage. Upon her release, Fu Rong encountered Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, who had just returned to the capital and learned of her imprisonment.

They offered their help in uncovering the truth and clearing Ruyi Pavilion's name. Fu Rong then returned to Ruyi Pavilion, where she personally tore off the impoundment seal and began to pack her belongings, much to Gu Yuan's surprise. Fu Rong quietly stated that from now on, she and Duke Su were no longer related and she would prove her innocence on her own.

As she tidied the pavilion, her gaze fell upon a copper hairpin that Duke Su had personally made, recalling him saying it was for his "wife." These personal mementos now felt like precious, solitary memories in the empty pavilion. Word of the divorce quickly spread. The Princess of Xihe, hearing the rumors, sought confirmation from Eunuch Wang, who affirmed that Fu Rong had indeed signed the divorce agreement and was released.

Princess of Xihe expressed her disdain for Fu Rong, calling her unworthy of Duke Su. She then learned from Eunuch Wang that Duke Su was in Weiyang City and, seeing an opportunity, decided to pursue him there. Eunuch Wang subsequently reported Princess of Xihe's intentions to the Emperor, who was pleased with the development.

Duke An also learned of Fu Rong's release and her journey to Weiyang City, deducing she might have been influenced by Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, whom he ordered to be located. He then headed to Weiyang City himself.

In Weiyang City, Duke Su was seen at a gambling den, where he met Mr. Demon, who introduced him to the "ghost market," a clandestine place where rare and unusual treasures were traded, suggesting it was far more intriguing than mere gambling. Soon after, the Princess of Xihe arrived in Weiyang City, confronting Duke Su and remarking on his apparent weight loss.

She questioned his unwavering dedication to Fu Rong, reminding him that Fu Rong was no longer his concubine, having signed the divorce agreement for her own safety. The Princess called Fu Rong a burden, but Duke Su simply instructed Xu Jia to escort the Princess back to her room. Just then, Eunuch Su arrived with an imperial decree and presented Duke Su with the divorce agreement Fu Rong had signed. Stunned, Duke Su refused to believe it or sign his part, declaring he would clear Fu Rong's name and present the unsigned document to the Emperor himself.

Episode 30 Recap

Eunuch Su arrived with an imperial decree, presenting Duke Su with a divorce agreement that Fu Rong had already signed with her fingerprint. The eunuch explained that Fu Rong had acted of her own free will and urged Duke Su to sign it so he could report back to the Emperor. Duke Su, however, refused, stating he would personally present the document to the Emperor only after he had resolved the case.

When his subordinate, Xu Jia, questioned the need to continue the investigation, Duke Su affirmed that it was his duty and unrelated to Fu Rong's decision. Meanwhile, Wu Baiqi visited the Fu Residence, where Fu Xuan confirmed Fu Rong had not returned home. Fu Xuan had learned from Gu Yuan that Fu Rong was released from prison and had gone to Weiyang City alone to prove her innocence.

Amid rumors of the divorce, Fu Xuan expressed her confusion, certain that Fu Rong, who deeply loved Duke Su, must have a compelling reason for her actions. Concerned for the Fu family's safety, Wu Baiqi assured Fu Xuan he would station men outside the residence to protect them. In Weiyang City, Fu Rong was ejected from a casino for having no money.

She had intended to gather information there, as casinos were known hubs for rumors about the stolen palace goods. Fortuitously, Duke An appeared, explaining that Gu Yuan had told him of her whereabouts and he had come out of concern. Fu Rong immediately borrowed money from him to continue her investigation.

Duke An revealed that his men were also on the case and had heard that some palace items had surfaced in the ghost market, offering to take her there that night. Duke Su, accompanied by Xu Jia, also went to the ghost market, with Princess Cui Wan secretly following them. They were greeted by the guide, Mr. Demon, who, despite Duke Su's attempt to send the mischievous Cui Wan home, insisted she join them for her own safety.

After donning masks, they entered the dimly lit market. While exploring, Cui Wan got into an argument with a vendor over his prices, and during the dispute, the vendor skillfully stole her jade bangle. Duke Su intervened to stop the argument, and Cui Wan reluctantly went to wait for him as instructed. Duke Su then followed Mr. Demon into a black tent, where he discovered the stolen imperial pearl buttons.

He swiftly subdued the culprits, who confessed they had taken the items from the Qing Feng Hideout, unaware they were from the palace. At the same time, Fu Rong and Duke An entered the ghost market. Fu Rong was momentarily captivated by a Magic Dew Stone, which reminded her of Duke Su, and Duke An, noticing her interest, bought it for her. Deeper inside, Fu Rong spotted a vendor playing with Princess Cui Wan's distinctive bangle.

The vendor refused to reveal its origin, citing the market's rules, but challenged her to a blindfolded guessing game. Fu Rong accepted. After the vendor hid an object among his wares, she removed her blindfold and correctly identified a porcelain pot. She explained that as he handed her the blindfold, she had discreetly sprinkled fragrance powder on his hand, allowing her to trace the scent to the pot he had touched.

The vendor, impressed by her cleverness, sold her the bangle for 8,000 taels. He then told her that the bangle's owner had argued with him and that her "cousin" (Duke Su) had headed toward an intersection marked by three lanterns. Following the trail, Fu Rong found the black tent, only to discover two bound men; she had just missed Duke Su. Fu Rong then encountered Duke Su at a crossroads.

In a painful confrontation, she held back tears and explained her decision. She claimed that being his duchess was never her desire and that the constant danger surrounding him was exhausting. Fearing for her family and the now-implicated Ruyi Pavilion, she insisted that staying together was a burden and divorce was the best option, allowing her to clear her name and freeing him from distraction. Heartbroken, Duke Su refused to believe her and stepped closer, demanding she repeat herself.

Though his intense gaze made her waver, Fu Rong reiterated that she was tired of being his duchess and wanted them both to be free, admitting that while she once had feelings for him, they had been shattered by reality. After thanking him for his past kindness, she left with Duke An, leaving a devastated Duke Su behind. Later, the ghost market vendor, revealed to be Ruyi Pavilion's Uncle San, met secretly with Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba.

They discussed their plan to rebuild Ruyi Pavilion, whose forces in the capital had been wiped out, and asked Uncle San to lead their revival. Wen Xing, who was tailing them for Duke An, accidentally made a noise, allowing the skilled Ruyi Pavilion members to escape. Back at his residence, Duke Su ordered Xu Jia to investigate Qing Feng Hideout the next day for the stolen goods.

Meanwhile, Duke An led Fu Rong to a high vantage point overlooking Weiyang City. As the sun rose, the morning mist cleared to reveal the city below. Duke An used this as a metaphor, assuring her that with patience, the truth would eventually come to light. Later, Wen Xing reported to Duke An that the vendor was indeed a Ruyi Pavilion old guard plotting a revival.

They returned to the meeting spot, a secluded hut, and found Ruyi Pavilion's secret codes carved into the doorframe. Duke An instructed Wen Xing to transcribe the codes for Gu Yuan to decipher. While they were occupied, Fu Rong slipped away and stumbled upon bandits from Qing Feng Hideout robbing a supply cart. Seeing an opportunity, she hid among the goods in the cart, dropping her Magic Dew Stone in her haste, and successfully infiltrated their fortress.

Inside, she overheard the bandits discussing boxes of jewels, a birthday gift for their master, that had arrived from the capital. As a female bandit became distracted by a hairpin on the ground, Fu Rong seized a long stick and knocked her unconscious.

Episode 31 Recap

Disguised, Fu Rong infiltrated a bandit hideout and located several heavy chests filled with extravagant jewels, confirming they were the stolen palace treasures. As she examined the bounty, Xu Jia appeared, revealing he had also traced the stolen goods to this very spot. Moments later, two burly bandits brought several kidnapped women into the room and locked them in. After the bandits departed, Fu Rong and Xu Jia quietly rescued the women.

Realizing that escaping as a large group would be too difficult, Fu Rong spotted Cheji Grass and devised a plan. Feigning to be a new girl delivering wine to the bandits, she served them the drugged beverage, quickly incapacitating the guards. Xu Jia led the women towards the hideout's entrance, but their escape was discovered.

In a desperate move, Fu Rong handed Xu Jia the palace jewels she had collected as evidence, urging him to take the women and flee while she created a diversion. Once Xu Jia and the women were safely away, Fu Rong smashed a wine jar onto a haystack and kicked over a brazier, igniting a raging inferno that engulfed the hideout. Alerted by the blaze, the Chief of Qing Feng Hideout rushed to the scene.

His eyes immediately fell upon Fu Rong, and he ordered her capture. Meanwhile, Duke An, unable to find Fu Rong at the local inns, followed the trail of the Halcyon Stone she had dropped and tracked her to Qing Feng Hideout. At the same time, Xu Jia delivered the news of Fu Rong's situation to Xu Jin. He reported that Fu Rong was trapped in the hideout and that the stolen palace materials were confirmed to be in its storehouse.

Xu Jia also revealed that he had discovered weapons from Kushui Village within the hideout, indicating a deeper conspiracy. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Xu Jin deemed waiting for reinforcements from the capital too slow. The Princess of Xihe, who was also present, offered to accompany Xu Jia to General Yuan to borrow troops, leveraging her father's past connection to the general.

As a condition for her help, she requested a personal item from Xu Jin and that he promise to return safely. With the plan set, Xu Jia and the Princess departed to secure military aid, while Xu Jin immediately set off for Qing Feng Hideout. Inside the hideout, Duke Su and Duke An encountered each other amidst the chaos. Recognizing each other instantly, they seamlessly joined forces, fighting off waves of bandits with remarkable coordination.

As the battle raged, the Chief of Qing Feng Hideout instructed his Deputy Chief to destroy all the treasures in the storehouse should anything go wrong, to prevent any secrets from falling into enemy hands. Finally, Xu Jin and Duke An found Fu Rong, unconscious and dressed in a beautiful red gown. Xu Jin gently lifted her, and the three of them fought their way out of the hideout. However, the Chief and Deputy Chief quickly led a pursuit.

During their escape, Duke An bravely shielded Fu Rong from a poison arrow, sustaining a severe injury to his right arm. Seeing Duke An's critical condition, Xu Jin entrusted Fu Rong to him, urging him to take her and flee. Xu Jin then, with a resolute heart, severed the main gate's ropes, trapping himself within the hideout to hold off the remaining bandits.

Xu Jin fought tirelessly through the night, covered in blood and utterly exhausted, yet he held on, determined to last until reinforcements arrived. Finally, the hideout's gate crashed open, and General Yuan arrived with Xu Jia and their troops. Xu Jin, having pushed past his limits, collapsed. He instructed Xu Jia to search the storehouse. Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief, following the Chief's orders, doused haystacks with wine and set the warehouse ablaze to destroy evidence.

Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba, who had been searching inside, narrowly escaped the thick smoke just as the fire intensified. At a nearby inn, Duke An's arrow wound was revealed to be severe, damaging his right arm's bone and tendons. Fu Rong, feeling responsible for his injury, promised to care for him until he fully recovered. As Duke An drifted to sleep, he still clutched her hand, and Fu Rong herself eventually fell into a light slumber.

Startled from their sleep, Duke An cried out Fu Rong's name, while Fu Rong called for Xu Jin. The following morning, Duke An's subordinate relayed an urgent message from Gu Yuan, prompting Duke An to depart immediately despite his injuries. Meanwhile, Fu Rong, who had been outside preparing medicine for Duke An, dozed off. Someone took advantage of her momentary lapse, striking her unconscious and abducting her. When Duke An returned, he found Fu Rong gone.

He immediately ordered Wen Xing to mobilize all available resources to find her. Xu Jin, still bearing his battle wounds, systematically visited every inn on the main street, inquiring about Fu Rong's whereabouts. At one inn, he finally received a crucial lead: a child had delivered a letter and Fu Rong's bracelet, instructing him to go alone to East Mountain within the hour for an exchange. Without hesitation, Xu Jin inquired about directions to East Mountain and departed in haste.

Simultaneously, Duke An, also searching for Fu Rong, encountered the same innkeeper, who described Xu Jin's visit and urgent departure. Realizing Fu Rong must be there, Duke An too headed in that direction. On East Mountain, Zhang Yan had already prepared an open grave with a waiting coffin, intending to bury Fu Rong. He revealed his deep-seated hatred, recounting the day his father, Marquis Xindu, had ushered him and his mother into a secret passage.

During their escape, his mother had knocked him unconscious and abandoned him, sealing his fate of feeling utterly alone in the world. Zhang Yan blamed Xu Jin and Fu Rong for his parents' deaths and vowed to take his revenge that day. He forced the struggling Fu Rong into the coffin and began burying her, shoveling handfuls of soil onto the lid as heavy rain poured down.

Inside the coffin, the air grew thin, and Fu Rong's desperate struggles slowly weakened until silence descended. Xu Jin finally located Zhang Yan on East Mountain. Consumed by hatred, Zhang Yan refused to reveal Fu Rong's location, instead attempting to force Xu Jin to self-harm.

In a final act of spite, Zhang Yan took a blunt dagger and stabbed himself, slowly dying and declaring that his death would ensure Xu Jin lived a life tormented by guilt, never knowing Fu Rong's fate. As Zhang Yan drew his last breath, Xu Jin's hope shattered. He screamed Fu Rong's name into the pouring rain, then forced himself to calm down and logically deduce her whereabouts. He noticed an unusual interception of rainwater and freshly turned earth.

With growing certainty and a surge of frantic energy, he began digging, unearthing layer after layer of soil until his hand struck something solid – a coffin. His heart pounded, confirming his darkest suspicions and dreading what he would find inside.

Episode 32 Recap

Following their ordeal with Zhang Yan, Xu Jin frantically dug through the earth and found Fu Rong alive in a coffin, dressed in a red wedding gown. Overcome with relief, he pulled her out, and she soon awakened. The near-death experience dissolved the barriers between them. Xu Jin returned her bladed fan, reaffirming their lifelong promise to each other, which she tearfully accepted.

Meanwhile, Duke An, who had also rushed to the scene, witnessed their reconciliation in the rain and departed quietly, his disappointment palpable. After returning to Duke Su's Residence, Xu Jin was urgently summoned to the palace to report on the case. As his carriage departed, Uncle San left a severely injured Xiao Qi at the gate before disappearing.

In the palace, Xu Jin presented some of the recovered stolen goods, but Duke Cheng had already preempted him, accusing Xu Jin of colluding with Ruyi Pavilion and the bandits. Xu Jin then presented the leader of Qingfeng Hideout as a witness, but the leader unexpectedly turned on him, falsely corroborating Duke Cheng's story and leaving Xu Jin unable to defend himself.

Back at the residence, Fu Rong awoke from her rest and was informed by her maid, Lan Xiang, that Xiao Qi had been found at the gate with a crucial account book. Realizing the danger Xu Jin was in, she immediately set off for the palace. At the same time, Princess of Xihe, Wan'er, was trying to vouch for Xu Jin, only to be verbally trapped by Duke Cheng, who twisted her words to implicate her in the scheme.

The Emperor grew enraged at Xu Jin's apparent failure. Just as he was about to order Xu Jin's punishment, Duke Huai arrived with Fu Rong. Fu Rong presented the account book, which detailed Duke Cheng's correspondence and illicit dealings with the bandit stronghold. Though the evidence was damning, Duke Cheng denied everything. However, the Emperor recognized Duke Cheng's unique handwriting quirk—always omitting a dot when writing the character for "reward"—as irrefutable proof.

Fu Rong then shrewdly tricked Duke Cheng by claiming the hideout's second-in-command was dead, causing him to blurt out that the man was still alive, completely exposing his lies. With the conspiracy revealed, the Emperor summoned Consort Duan, who had colluded with her son to embezzle funds and replace military weapons. When she also refused to confess, the disheartened Emperor confined Duke Cheng to the Contemplation Hall and banished Consort Duan to the Cold Palace.

Xu Jin and Fu Rong then humbly requested the Emperor to revoke their divorce decree. After a gentle reminder from Consort Shu about the importance of communication, the couple profusely apologized to each other. The Emperor tacitly approved their reunion, and the weapons case was finally closed. Outside, Xu Jin and Fu Rong embraced, vowing never to hide things from each other again. With their marriage restored and the Imperial Guards' seal returned to him, Xu Jin's position was secured.

Fu Rong later visited her family to reassure them, explaining that her marriage was saved and Ruyi Pavilion would soon reopen. Meanwhile, in a hidden chamber, Duke An ordered Wen Xing to tend to an unconscious Zhang Yan, stating he would be useful later. Wen Xing then reported that he had killed Xiao Ba but that Xiao Qi was rescued by Uncle San. Enraged, Duke An commanded him to disseminate Ruyi Pavilion's distinctive mark to draw out all its members.

Back at the residence, Fu Rong found Xu Jin with a kite, lamenting the rain. They mused about what their lives would be like had they never met, imagining a world where he was a righteous commander and she a dedicated artisan, their paths never crossing. Xu Jin recalled a prophetic dream of a bride in red, expressing his gratitude that their meeting in reality, though fraught with danger, had made them inseparable.

Later, at the reopened Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Xuan showed Fu Rong the updated ledgers. Their work was interrupted by Wu Baiqi, who arrived with a gift, his attention focused solely on Fu Xuan. After recuperating for several days, Xiao Qi awakened and told Fu Rong everything. He recounted the pursuit and revealed he had to bury Xiao Ba before rushing back. He then disclosed Ruyi Pavilion's true purpose: to secretly collect and sell intelligence on powerful officials and merchants. He explained that the emblem on the bracelet their master, Liu Ruyi, had left for her was intrinsically linked to these secrets.

Episode 33 Recap

Fu Rong held a bracelet with an emblem that Xiao Qi explained was Ruyi Pavilion's secret contact signal. He noted that since Fu Rong was not a member, the fact that the Master, Liu Ru Yi, gave her the bracelet meant Fu Rong was the person she valued most. Xiao Qi assured Fu Rong that any Ruyi Pavilion member who saw the emblem would help her if she was in danger.

He also revealed that Ruyi Pavilion's large secret room, which once contained numerous scrolls, was now empty, with only the ledger remaining. This led Xiao Qi to believe Liu Ru Yi’s death was not a suicide, as she was too devoted to the pavilion to die so abruptly without preparations; he suspected she was murdered.

After Liu Ru Yi's death, a mysterious force emerged, seeking to control the pavilion by gathering its members and eliminating those who refused to submit, especially Xiao Qi and Xiao Ba. They relentlessly pursued the pair, questioning them about Ruyi Pavilion's token. Xiao Qi explained that most Ruyi Pavilion members were unfamiliar with each other or Liu Ru Yi’s true identity, operating solely based on the token.

He feared that if this force obtained the token, they would gain absolute control over Ruyi Pavilion, with disastrous consequences. Xiao Qi implored Fu Rong, as the only person Liu Ru Yi truly trusted, to help him find the token to restore Ruyi Pavilion and avenge Liu Ru Yi and Xiao Ba. Fu Rong promised to help find the Ruyi token and uncover the mastermind.

Xu Jin acknowledged Fu Rong's determination to investigate but expressed deep concern about her involvement with Ruyi Pavilion. He explained that while the pavilion ostensibly only sold information, it was implicated in the deaths of Qi Ce and Fu Rong's uncle Dong Fang Li, and was also connected to Xu Mao and Marquis Xindu, meaning it bore some responsibility. Xu Jin warned Fu Rong that Ruyi Pavilion was a complicated and dangerous entity.

Fu Rong admitted that Liu Ru Yi was not as straightforward as she had believed, but she felt compelled to investigate her master's death due to the suspicious circumstances. Despite Xu Jin’s pleas for her to stay out of it, Fu Rong insisted she had to get involved. Xu Jin countered that she might not be able to bear the consequences, but Fu Rong stated she would pursue the matter regardless of his agreement.

Seeing her unwavering resolve, Xu Jin reluctantly accepted her decision. Meanwhile, at Zhangyang City, General Dou Yan, defending the frontier, held a military briefing. He proposed a dangerous strategy to open the north gate and lure the Xuanhan enemy deeper into the city. A sudden report arrived, announcing that Xuanhan cavalry had already broken through the city gate.

Faced with 70,000 to 80,000 enemy troops, Dou Yan, despite the grim news, confidently declared he had a plan that might save Zhangyang. He called for volunteers, and his loyal soldiers immediately pledged their lives to fight. Back in the capital, Fu Rong found Xu Jin appearing upset and offered him some soup. She playfully commented on his ability to move silently, which he credited to General Dou Yan's teachings.

Fu Rong expressed her admiration for the esteemed General and they agreed to visit him in Zhangyang City together one day when things settled down. Later, Xiao Qi met with Fu Rong at Duke Su's Residence, informing her of his plan to contact his "Uncle San," an elder with an eccentric temperament who lived outside the capital. He advised Fu Rong to be careful due to her recent injuries. Fu Rong then inquired if Gu Yuan knew Ruyi Pavilion's secrets.

Xiao Qi replied that Liu Ru Yi was cautious and maintained one-way communication with most members, but she deeply trusted Gu Yuan, so Gu Yuan might possess some knowledge. News soon reached the capital that Xuanhan had captured Zhangyang City, and worse, General Dou Yan had allegedly defected. In the Contemplation Hall, Duke Cheng celebrated Dou Yan's apparent betrayal, gloating that the city defense map he had leaked was crucial to Xuanhan's victory and eagerly anticipated Xu Jin's downfall.

The Emperor, enraged, ordered the detention and execution of Dou Yan's entire family. Xu Jin vehemently protested, asserting his master’s integrity and stating that Dou Yan would die in battle rather than betray his country. He urged the Emperor to reconsider, warning that punishing a respected general’s family prematurely would demoralize the border soldiers. Xu Jin then pleaded to lead troops to counter Xuanhan.

However, the Emperor, fearing Xu Jin's rashness due to his personal connection to Dou Yan, refused and instead entrusted Duke Huai with leading the reinforcements. After the court session, Duke Huai encountered the County Princess of Qingping, Qi Zhu. Upon learning he was departing for the border, Qi Zhu presented him with a protective talisman she had obtained from a temple, wishing him a safe and triumphant return.

Meanwhile, Xu Jin received a new war report detailing Xuanhan's intimate knowledge of Zhangyang’s weak points and their precisely timed attack, which occurred just as the city's forces were depleted due to recent troop movements. This confirmed Xu Jin’s suspicion that a traitor had leaked the defense map, solidifying his belief that Dou Yan had not truly betrayed the country but was enacting a deeper plan.

Fu Rong waited for several hours outside the room where Xu Jin, Wu Baiqi, and Ge Chuan were deliberating on the border situation. Deciding not to interrupt, she eventually left. Later, Xu Jin returned to his chambers to find Fu Rong asleep at his desk.

Lan Xiang informed him that Fu Rong had visited General Dou Yan's residence to check on Mrs. Dou, who was feeling unwell, and had even prepared medicinal soup for her, as well as an extra portion for Xu Jin. Touched by Fu Rong's thoughtfulness, Xu Jin gently carried her to bed. That night, he dreamt of his wedding, finally unveiling his bride to be Fu Rong, realizing that despite all twists, he was destined to marry her.

The next morning, Xu Jin confirmed with Fu Rong that she was indeed the woman he had kissed in Jichang City while drugged, and that the hibiscus-patterned shoes were hers, sewn by her mother. Fu Rong explained she had been in Jichang City pursuing her Master when she encountered two corrupt officials impersonating Xu Jin to abduct local girls.

Using information from Gu Yuan, Duke An deduced that Fu Rong likely knew Ruyi Pavilion's true nature and began subtly spreading misleading information. Soon after, Xiao Wu, a Ruyi Pavilion member, approached Fu Rong at Duke Su's Residence.

He recounted Liu Ru Yi's past dealings with Qi Ce, her coercion of Dong Fang Li into suicide by threatening his son Dong Wen, her collaboration with Shang Kai Yang in Jichang City, and her orchestration of the bombing of Mount Tai during a solar eclipse to conceal illicit profits. Xiao Wu further claimed that Liu Ru Yi, angered by Xu Jin's repeated interference, had even plotted to eliminate him. Fu Rong adamantly refused to believe these accusations.

However, Xu Jin produced a vine-like silver needle, the same weapon used by a person in black whose figure resembled Liu Ru Yi, who had attempted to destroy the ledger in Jichang City. Xu Jin admitted he lacked conclusive evidence at the time and had asked Liu Ru Yi for more time, only for her to die unexpectedly. Xu Jin believed Xiao Wu’s account, while Fu Rong vehemently defended Liu Ru Yi, leading to a heated argument.

Xu Jin pointed out that Xiao Qi never revealed these darker aspects, suggesting that Ruyi Pavilion operated purely for profit, regardless of the consequences. Fu Rong, however, maintained that Liu Ru Yi was either coerced or that someone else was behind these crimes. When Xu Jin asked if she truly believed this, Fu Rong declared that she trusted the Master she knew more than fragmented evidence.

She retorted that if he could blindly trust his master, she should be afforded the same faith. Xu Jin then declared that Ruyi Pavilion, due to its involvement in nefarious deeds, was better off dissolved. Fu Rong, undeterred, insisted she would uncover the true mastermind. The Princess of Xihe visited Duke Su's Residence to check on Xu Jin. There, she encountered Fu Rong, who was leaving for Ruyi Pavilion after her argument with Xu Jin.

Wen Xing arrived with a carriage, stating that Mr. Ju Shui wished to meet Fu Rong. The Princess of Xihe found Wen Xing familiar, recognizing him as Duke An's personal guard. Suspicious, she dispatched her maid to follow Fu Rong, then entered the residence to see Xu Jin. Shortly after, news arrived that Pingsai had fallen, and the Emperor had placed General Dou Yan's entire family under house arrest.

Xu Jin immediately rushed to the palace but was denied an audience with the Emperor. Fu Rong met Duke An and casually inquired about his previous injury, only then learning that Xu Jin had also been severely injured at Qingfeng Hideout—a detail he had never disclosed to her. Meanwhile, Xu Jin, having been refused an audience by the Emperor, resolved that only one desperate course of action remained.

The Princess of Xihe caught up to him, relaying her suspicion that Fu Rong had gone to Ju Shui Pavilion in Duke An's guard's carriage. As Fu Rong left Ju Shui Pavilion, Xu Jin intercepted Duke An, breaking his mask with a fan and revealing him to be Mr. Ju Shui. Back at Duke Su's Residence, Xu Jin angrily confronted Fu Rong.

He berated her for continuing to involve herself with Ruyi Pavilion, for associating closely with Duke An (Mr. Ju Shui), and for her proximity to other men. He claimed her actions had led to the Emperor's growing displeasure with him and had worsened General Dou Yan's precarious situation, declaring that everything was her fault. In a moment of anger, Xu Jin told her that his greatest regret was marrying her.

Episode 34 Recap

Duke Su, feigning heartlessness, informed Fu Rong that he intended to divorce her. He explained that with General Dou Yan's family in grave danger, he had to sever ties with her to act without restraint, believing it was the only way to ensure her safety. Though heartbroken, Fu Rong recognized the bitter irony, as Duke Su's cold words and actions mirrored her own when she pushed him away.

Composing herself, she agreed to the divorce and said she would return to the Fu Residence, telling him to send the divorce papers when they were ready. Meanwhile, Duke An, aware that Duke Su had discovered his identity as the "Jushui Scholar," remained unconcerned. Noting the growing rift between Fu Rong and Xu Jin, he ordered his subordinate to find an opportunity to eliminate Xiao Wu, whose usefulness had expired.

Upon her return to the Fu Residence, Fu Rong fabricated a story for her parents, claiming Duke Su was leaving the capital and that she felt lonely and homesick. That night, Fu Rong and Fu Xuan shared drinks, and Fu Rong lamented how love can make one act foolishly. She called Duke Su a idiot and liar for bearing all burdens alone and using her own tactics of pushing a loved one away for their own good against her.

Fu Xuan listened intently, her gaze drifting towards the wall where Wu Baiqi frequently appeared. Just as Wu Baiqi was about to climb over the wall, Duke Su stopped him. On the street, Wu Baiqi offered to help Duke Su with General Zhenbei's situation, but Duke Su entrusted him with the more important task of looking after the Fu family.

Duke Su then went to General Zhenbei's residence, having already secretly moved Mrs. Dou and her grandson, Rui, to his own residence for safety. He reassured the worried Mrs. Dou that his urgent goal was to prove General Dou Yan’s innocence before the Emperor discovered the ruse. He later confirmed to his aide that he had deliberately driven Fu Rong away to protect her and had already sent men to guard her secretly.

Following Fu Rong, Wu Baiqi overheard street gossip slandering her and angrily silenced the speakers before continuing his pursuit. Fu Rong arrived at a secluded mountain village, a haven for orphans raised by Liu Ruyi. There, she met Uncle San and other members of Ruyi Pavilion. Fu Rong, troubled, asked if her master was truly responsible for the deadly Mount Tai landslide.

The members were aghast, passionately defending Liu Ruyi's benevolence and explaining that the village was built to care for orphans. They reminded her that the Ruyi Bracelet she wore was a symbol that obligated all members to protect her with their lives, expressing disappointment in her lack of trust. Fu Rong revealed that her suspicions came from Xiao Wu, another Ruyi Pavilion member, leading them to conclude Xiao Wu had been bribed.

Suddenly, a skirmish broke out as Wu Baiqi, fearing for Fu Rong's safety, engaged Uncle San in a sword fight. Fu Rong intervened, stopping them and sending a reluctant Wu Baiqi to wait outside. Uncle San then explained that he and General Zhenbei’s son were sworn brothers. He had come to the capital to help the general and had already discovered that an internal mole had leaked Dayu's defense map to Xuan Han.

Their plan was to apprehend the mole during their next meeting with a spy. Ashamed of her doubts, Fu Rong offered to help, hoping to prove Ruyi Pavilion's true intentions to Duke Su. At the palace, Xu Jin received a secret letter from Duke Huai, confirming he would follow Xu Jin's plan for a coordinated attack at Jiuli. Xu Jin knew he couldn't approach the Emperor yet, as it would only deepen suspicions of collusion.

Soon, disastrous news arrived: Jiuli had fallen under the command of "rebel Dou Yan," and Duke Huai had been shot by an arrow from Dou Yan himself. Enraged and coughing up blood, the Emperor ordered Duke An to arrest Dou Yan's entire family and execute them the next day. However, Duke An's forces found General Zhenbei's residence empty, save for two female decoys.

Realizing he'd been outmaneuvered, a furious Duke An reported back, and the suspicious Emperor ordered him to search Duke Su's residence. That search also yielded nothing. Xu Jin knew the Emperor now suspected him and that hiding the general's family was only a temporary solution. As Princess Consort of Qingping prayed for Duke Huai's safe return, news of a decisive victory at the border arrived.

The "attack" on Duke Huai had been a ruse; the arrow he was "shot" with actually contained Jiuli's defense map. Duke Huai feigned a serious injury to lull the Xuan Han forces into complacency. That night, General Zhenbei launched a surprise attack from within the city while Duke Huai's army stormed the gates, leading to a crushing defeat for Xuan Han. The Emperor, realizing he had nearly executed a loyal general, was overcome with relief and guilt.

He praised Duke Su for his great contribution and immediately permitted General Zhenbei's family to return home. A follow-up letter from the border confirmed the presence of a traitor who had leaked the original defense map. Meanwhile, Fu Rong and Uncle San's group tracked the Xuan Han spy to a teahouse, where he met with Zhong Rui, Duke Cheng's personal guard. The spy demanded to meet Duke Cheng in person the next day.

This confirmed Duke Cheng was the mole, colluding with the enemy for money even while confined. They decided they needed more direct evidence to capture him. Elsewhere, the Emperor and Consort Shu were on an incognito trip to a temple. When their carriage stopped, they decided to walk. As they strolled, they were approached by a teahouse owner boasting about his rare tea, just as Duke Cheng arrived at the same location for his clandestine meeting.

Episode 35 Recap

The Emperor, disguised as a commoner, was led to a private teahouse room where he was offered Baiting Tea, a rare treat. From the adjacent room, he overheard Duke Cheng brazenly discussing the sale of tactical maps. Duke Cheng boasted about the genuine map he had provided, which facilitated the swift capture of Zhangyang City, and expressed his readiness to sell more, including maps for Pingsai and Jiuli.

Infuriated by this treason, the Emperor commanded Wu Baiqi to arrest Duke Cheng and the Xuanhan spy. Duke Cheng was subsequently sentenced to execution, and his co-conspirator was apprehended. News of Duke Cheng's downfall spread, and many acknowledged Fu Rong's pivotal role. Her clever strategy, which involved contacting Consort Shu through Zhi Hui, ensured the Emperor personally witnessed the clandestine deal, leaving Duke Cheng no room for denial.

However, Wu Baiqi grew suspicious, questioning how Fu Rong knew the skilled martial artists who had assisted her. This remark made Xu Jin realize that Ruyi Pavilion's existence was close to being exposed, and he resolved to protect Fu Rong from being implicated. Back at Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Rong examined the Phoenix Crown that Liu Ruyi had made for her. A maid explained that she had brought it from Duke Su's Residence, knowing Fu Rong cherished it.

Upon inspection, Fu Rong found a hidden lotus pattern carved within a pearl. She consulted Uncle San, who revealed the symbol likely referred to Lotus Village, a secluded community near Yunluo Temple for devout Buddhists unable to become monks. Uncle San recalled that Liu Ruyi had once sent a secret letter from there after a disappearance. Fu Rong surmised that her master kept the location secret for its protection and speculated the Ruyi token might be hidden there.

On the street, Wu Baiqi encountered Bookkeeper Lu. With Consort Duan deposed, Wu Baiqi knew Lu Zeng likely held the Feng Lai Yi stamp. Lu Zeng lied, claiming Fu Xuan had already taken it, just as Fu Xuan appeared. She exposed Lu's scheme: he had used the stamp for illicit business deals, planning to seize the establishment. Acting on Ruyi Pavilion's behalf, Fu Xuan offered to resolve the matter in exchange for all documents, the stamp, and the deed.

Under her supervision, Lu Zeng surrendered everything to the authorities. Afterwards, Wu Baiqi overheard gossip about "Mr. Yao and Ms. Fu's" wedding and, mistakenly believing it was Fu Xuan, rushed after the bridal sedan. Wu Baiqi burst into the wedding ceremony, knelt before the bride, and declared his love, admitting his recklessness but vowing to prove his lifelong devotion. The stunned groom asked, "Who is Fu Xuan?"

From the crowd, Fu Xuan called out Wu Baiqi's name and pulled him outside, explaining he had crashed the wrong wedding. She clarified that she had already broken her own arranged marriage with a Mr. Shen because her heart belonged to someone else. When Wu Baiqi pressed her, she confessed her feelings for him. He interrupted her self-criticism, declaring he loved her just as she was.

He promised to prove his sincerity over a lifetime and, after she agreed by blinking, announced his intention to formally ask her parents for her hand in marriage. Their exchange culminated in a tender, prolonged kiss. Fu Rong and Uncle San arrived at Lotus Village, where Fu Rong introduced herself as Liu Ruyi's disciple. The owner claimed not to know Liu Ruyi, but his expression betrayed him. Fu Rong left her master's drawing with him and decided to wait.

Unbeknownst to them, Gu Yuan had followed them and was preparing to act. Meanwhile, Xu Jin's search of Duke Cheng's residence revealed that crucial letters were missing, likely taken by Duke Cheng's vanished confidant, Zhong Rui, who had probably defected to Xuanhan. Later, while searching Zhong Rui's room, Wu Baiqi discovered a mask identical to the one worn by Fu Xuan's kidnapper. Realizing Zhong Rui was the culprit, he rushed to the Fu Residence to warn her to be cautious.

Inside Lotus Village, the owner was burning incense before a portrait of Liu Ruyi when he sensed intruders. He swiftly subdued Uncle San and Xiao Qi and attacked Fu Rong, but halted when he saw the Ruyi emblem on her bracelet, recognizing it as a key. He explained Liu Ruyi had entrusted him with a wooden box, to be given to someone wearing that bracelet. From a hidden compartment, he retrieved the box.

Fu Rong unlocked it with her bracelet, finding a letter and the Ruyi token. The letter explained that Ruyi Pavilion had grown beyond her control and was now in peril. It left the decision to either lead it or destroy the token to Fu Rong, urging her to remain true to herself. Fu Rong declared she had made her choice.

As Fu Rong left, a masked assailant, revealed to be Gu Yuan, tried to steal the Ruyi token, but Fu Rong had anticipated the attack and swapped the token with a fake. Defeated and exposed, Gu Yuan retreated to Ju Shui Pavilion and reported her failure to Duke An. She confirmed Fu Rong now possessed the token and the support of Ruyi Pavilion's members.

Though displeased, Duke An maintained his composure, reassuring Gu Yuan of her value and telling her to rest. Wu Baiqi presented Fu Xuan with a box of land deeds and assets as a betrothal gift, explaining his late mother wished for him to find a capable wife to manage Feng Lai Yi. Amused by the unconventional gift, Fu Xuan accepted only the key to Feng Lai Yi as a "deposit."

Later, to surprise him for his birthday, she went to Feng Lai Yi to cook longevity noodles. While there, she saw Zhong Rui's reflection in a mirror. Thinking fast, she threw the hot noodles at him and ran for help. Wu Baiqi, arriving for the surprise, entered just as Zhong Rui tried to flee and was knocked unconscious by waiting guards. On him, they found incriminating letters proving his collusion with Duke Cheng.

After the commotion, Wu Baiqi was touched that Fu Xuan had remembered his birthday. As a gift, he asked for permission to call her "Xuan'er." She consented, teasingly replying that he could call her what he wished, implying more intimate names would follow. Meanwhile, at court, Xu Jin reported on the capture of Xuanhan spies. Duke An then shifted focus to Xu Mao's crimes, revealing they were all enabled by a secret organization that traded information.

Outraged, the Emperor ordered Xu Jin, as head of the Imperial Guards, to eradicate this organization. Xu Jin was trapped, as the order to destroy what was clearly Ruyi Pavilion would force him to act against Fu Rong.

Episode 36 Recap

Following the Emperor's order to suppress Ruyi Pavilion, Duke Su finds himself in a difficult position due to Fu Rong's connection. He finds it suspicious that Duke An discovered the pavilion's existence just as their informant, Xiao Wu, vanished. For now, he instructs his men to investigate Ruyi Pavilion's role in recent incidents and to hold the suspects arrested on Duke An's intel, but forbids any torture, demanding both testimony and physical evidence before proceeding.

In prison, the former Duke Cheng, Xu Mao, learns he has been spared execution. Instead, he is condemned to a life of hard labor rebuilding the imperial tomb, effectively stripping him of his royal status. His final request to Eunuch Wang is to plead with the Emperor for his mother's well-being. Unaware of this, Consort Duan is confronted by a vengeful Qi Zhu.

Qi Zhu now knows that Xu Mao orchestrated her brother Qi Ce's death and that Consort Duan knowingly deceived her, making her a god-daughter to the family of her brother's killer. She scorns the memory of helping her enemies, leaving Consort Duan to collapse in despair. Duke Su attempts to visit Fu Rong, but Lan Xiang turns him away, explaining Fu Rong is suffering from a "sickness of the heart" and doesn't wish to see him.

As they exchange messages through Lan Xiang, Fu Rong warns him to be wary of Gu Yuan. After Duke Su leaves, Fu Rong laments his prejudice against Ruyi Pavilion. Her problems worsen when she learns that over ten of their members have been arrested by the Imperial Guards. She orders an immediate shutdown of the pavilion and arranges a secret meeting. That night, tragedy strikes when Xiao Qi returns with a mortally wounded Xiao Shi, who dies despite their efforts.

Xiao Qi claims they were ambushed by Imperial Guards acting on Duke Su's direct order to eliminate Ruyi Pavilion. Devastated and enraged, Fu Rong confronts Duke Su at his residence. He explains that he is merely following the Emperor's command to investigate, but Fu Rong defiantly reveals she is the new owner of Ruyi Pavilion and cannot abandon her people.

She challenges him to arrest her, accusing him of plotting to destroy the pavilion since Xiao Wu's capture and of using Wu Baiqi to spy on her. Recalling their promise to be honest with one another, she declares that with a life now lost between them, they are enemies. Meanwhile, at Ju Shui Pavilion, Duke An has saved Zhang Yan, who is now consumed by a desire for revenge against Duke Su and Fu Rong.

Duke An devises a plan: during an upcoming festival, he will lure Duke Su to Ruyi Pavilion, allowing Zhang Yan to burn it down. Wen Xing reports that Gu Yuan overheard their conversation, but Duke An is unconcerned, stating she still has her uses. The trap is set. Fu Rong goes to the market with Lan Xiang, searching for Gu Yuan.

At the same time, a fake letter claiming Fu Rong is in danger lures her father, Fu Pin Yan, to Ruyi Pavilion. Acting on Duke An's orders, Gu Yuan rushes to Duke Su, fabricating a story that Fu Rong has fainted and is being tortured at the pavilion. Though he suspects a trick, Duke Su's concern for Fu Rong leads him to go, leaving Xu Jia to guard Gu Yuan.

Gu Yuan then lies to Xu Jia that the entire affair is a scheme she and Fu Rong planned to force a reconciliation, before splashing him with hot tea, knocking him unconscious, and escaping. Duke Su arrives at the empty Ruyi Pavilion to find Fu Pin Yan tied up. Zhang Yan appears and sets the building ablaze. Duke Su overpowers Zhang Yan, but they are both trapped by the flames.

In a final act of sacrifice, Fu Pin Yan shoves Duke Su out of the inferno, dying alongside Zhang Yan. Wu Baiqi arrives just in time to help the injured Duke Su flee the scene. Moments later, Duke An appears, feigning shock and taking command of the firefighting efforts. When Fu Rong arrives, she sees the burning pavilion and fleeing Imperial Guards, solidifying her belief that Duke Su is responsible.

Her mother's arrival confirms her worst fear: her father was inside. At the Fu Residence, draped in white for mourning, she confronts Duke Su. He denies setting the fire, and Xu Jia tries to explain how Gu Yuan tricked them. Fu Rong refutes the story, stating she saw Gu Yuan in the market herself. Duke Su's confirmation that Zhang Yan was the arsonist does little to appease her. Overwhelmed by grief and his silence, she banishes him.

Despite Fu Rong's certainty, her sister Fu Xuan feels something is amiss. She questions the convenient timing, Duke Su's own injuries, and notes that if Zhang Yan was indeed the arsonist, two bodies should have been found in the wreckage. Later, Wu Baiqi finds a grieving Fu Xuan, who coldly tries to push him away, citing the three-year mourning period. Wu Baiqi refuses to leave, vowing to wait for her no matter how long, declaring his only fear is of her crying alone.

Episode 37 Recap

Following her father's death in the fire at Ruyi Pavilion, a grief-stricken Fu Rong resolutely took charge of the imperiled organization. Believing Xu Jin was responsible, she dedicated herself to clearing Ruyi Pavilion's name. She instructed her remaining members to go into hiding while she, along with Xiao Qi and her third uncle, stayed behind to investigate the fire's true cause.

Fu Rong obtained a transcribed copy of the official report from the Criminal Investigation Bureau, which stated that only one body was found in the fire. This contradicted Xu Jin’s claim that Zhang Yan was the arsonist, deepening her distrust. Unknown to her, Duke An had already manipulated the records, removing Zhang Yan's body and the bodies of the men who had impersonated Imperial Guards, thereby erasing all evidence of a conspiracy.

Concurrently, Xu Jia reported his findings on the fire to Xu Jin. When Xu Jia confirmed the official report listed only one body, Xu Jin concluded the documents had been tampered with. Xu Jia also revealed that one of the Imperial Guard impersonators had been found dead, pointing to a meticulously planned conspiracy against Xu Jin. They determined that Gu Yuan was their only remaining lead. Meanwhile, Wu Baiqi accompanied Fu Xuan to sell a villa.

Puzzled by its low asking price, Fu Xuan was delighted when a new buyer abruptly offered more than triple the amount. She celebrated the sale, unaware that Wu Baiqi had secretly arranged for his own family to buy the property, happy to see her relieved. Feeling betrayed and heartbroken, Fu Rong sent a white fan, a copper hairpin, and a note with the words "Our love ends here" to Xu Jin, formally ending their relationship.

Afterwards, she collapsed on the street from exhaustion and was found by Duke An, who brought her to his residence, Ju Shui Pavilion, to recover. Xu Jia, who was searching the streets for Gu Yuan, witnessed this. At Ju Shui Pavilion, Duke An attempted to poison Gu Yuan, who was also hiding there. He was interrupted when he went to check on a recovering Fu Rong, giving Gu Yuan a chance to discover the poison and escape.

While speaking with Fu Rong, Duke An shared a story about his mother, who was killed in a fire due to prejudice against her unusual eyes. Later that night, Gu Yuan fled the pavilion, injuring Xu Jia’s back as he tried to apprehend her. The next morning, Fu Rong questioned Duke An about Gu Yuan, but his denial made her suspicious.

Xu Jia reported everything to Xu Jin: Fu Rong's collapse, her stay at Ju Shui Pavilion, and Gu Yuan’s escape. Xu Jin ordered Xu Jia to continue monitoring Ju Shui Pavilion and tasked Ge Chuan with finding Gu Yuan. Shortly after, Xuanhan’s Second Prince, Wu Ta, arrived in Hengjing to propose a marriage alliance.

After a divided debate at court, Duke An successfully persuaded the Emperor to agree, decreeing that a noble lady who volunteered would be granted the title of princess for the marriage. Gu Yuan, having escaped Duke An, was rescued by the owner of Lotus Village. Seeing a portrait of Liu Ruyi, the former master of Ruyi Pavilion, Gu Yuan was filled with remorse for her mistakes. The owner advised her that repentance was the only path to salvation.

In court, Second Prince Wu Ta specifically requested Princess of Xihe, Cui Wan, as the bride for the Xuanhan King. The Emperor informed Cui Wan that refusing would lead to war, and she, unwilling to be blamed for a conflict, asked for two days to consider. Desperate, she attempted suicide but was stopped by her maids, then begged Consort Shu to arrange a meeting with Xu Jin.

That night, Cui Wan pleaded with Xu Jin to marry her instead, but he firmly refused, stating he would only ever marry one woman. Devastated, Cui Wan was left wailing as her maids tied her to the bed to prevent further self-harm. Defeated, Cui Wan accepted her fate and devised a new plan.

She informed the Emperor she would willingly marry into Xuanhan but requested that Princess of Qingping accompany her and that Xu Jin lead the escort party for her safety. The Emperor agreed. Accepting her future, Cui Wan dismissed her loyal maid, sending her to serve Consort Shu, as their paths would now diverge forever. Later, Duke An met with Prince Wu Ta, revealing that he knew Wu Ta had fabricated the Xuanhan King's interest in Cui Wan.

Sharing a common goal of stopping the alliance, Duke An hinted that the journey would be perilous for the escort party, making it clear to Wu Ta that his true aim was to eliminate Xu Jin.

Episode 38 Recap

The Emperor expressed his frustration with Duke Huai, who had repeatedly refused all arranged marriage proposals. At that moment, Duke An requested an audience to report on the impending marriage of Princess Cui Wan of Xihe. During their conversation, Duke An casually mentioned Qi Zhu, which prompted Duke Huai, who was waiting outside, to intercept him.

When Duke Huai inquired about Qi Zhu, Duke An recalled previously unnoticed details and realized there was a mutual affection between them, immediately seeing an opportunity to exploit the connection. Duke An then sought out Qi Zhu, urging her to take a risk for love. Knowing she would hesitate, he didn't press her, confident she would ultimately agree.

He manipulated her by revealing that the Emperor had been furious with Duke Huai on her account, claiming that Duke Huai was prepared to kneel before the palace gates and even renounce his royal status for her. Later, Duke Huai also found Qi Zhu and returned a lucky charm she had once given him, expressing his hope that it would ensure her safe return from her journey.

Deeply affected by Duke An's words, Qi Zhu pondered whether she should truly gamble everything for a chance at love. As the marriage procession prepared to depart, Wu Baiqi meticulously searched the vicinity. He spotted a suspicious man hurriedly carrying baskets into the forest outside the city gate. Chasing after him, Wu Baiqi found sulfur powder hidden beneath dried grass and deduced that explosives were buried nearby.

He ordered his men to secure the area and pursued the man into the forest, only to find two empty baskets. Wu Baiqi was then ambushed by assassins. He realized they intended to sabotage the marriage alliance to cause friction between the Dayu and Xuan Han empires and elevate their new king. Although his eyes were blinded by white powder and his legs were cut, he swiftly eliminated the attackers using only his hearing.

As his soldiers arrived, he reiterated the order to search for any suspicious individuals to ensure the procession’s safety. At the charred ruins of Ruyi Pavilion, Fu Rong reflected on her father's unconditional love, realizing that apart from her parents, no one else truly wished for her happiness without expecting something in return. As she turned to leave, Gu Yuan appeared and confessed the truth. She revealed that Duke An had rescued Zhang Yan, who was still alive.

The entire incident was an elaborate scheme to lure Xu Jin to Ruyi Pavilion and create a rift between him and Fu Rong. Gu Yuan admitted that her infatuation with Duke An had blinded her, and she had even tried to steal a token for him, but he had merely seen her as an obstacle and intended to kill her.

She also confirmed that Duke An had his men dispose of Zhang Yan’s body before the authorities arrived and had them disguise themselves as Imperial Guards to massacre the people of Ruyi Pavilion, thereby framing Xu Jin for the atrocity.

Fu Rong wondered if Duke An did all this because he loved her, but Gu Yuan clarified that Duke An’s true aim was to kill Xu Jin, whom he hated deeply; the death of Fu Rong’s father was an unintended consequence of Zhang Yan’s own actions. Gu Yuan cautioned Fu Rong against confronting the ruthless and dangerously obsessed Duke An.

Realizing her terrible mistake, Fu Rong rushed to the city gate, but Xu Jin had already departed with the marriage procession. Waking from a nightmare, Fu Rong connected all the pieces: Duke An’s ultimate goal had always been to harm Xu Jin. She recalled Duke An mentioning his mother’s death in a fire at Hong Fu Temple and Xu Jin confessing that he had once accidentally knocked over a candlestick there.

Knowing she could not wait, Fu Rong resolved to find Xu Jin. Gu Yuan, regretting her past betrayals, pleaded to accompany her, offering her martial arts skills for protection, and Fu Rong reluctantly agreed. Meanwhile, at the wishing tree, the wind carried Qi Zhu's good-luck ribbon into Duke Huai's hand, prompting him to set off to find her. The journey was long and arduous, and Princess Cui Wan suffered from constant nausea.

Qi Zhu confided her plan to escape the procession, persuading the hesitant Cui Wan to agree. That night, fires suddenly erupted around the camp as assassins attacked. Seizing the opportunity, Qi Zhu pulled Cui Wan away, and they fled into a grassy area. Qi Zhu left Cui Wan to rest while she scouted ahead, but bandits emerged and forced Cui Wan to the edge of a cliff.

Just as they were about to strike, Gu Yuan appeared, repelling the bandits, while Fu Rong arrived and fiercely protected Cui Wan. The bandits were numerous, and while Gu Yuan protected one side, she couldn't cover the other. When a knife was aimed at Fu Rong, Gu Yuan threw herself in front of it, taking the fatal blow.

As she lay dying, Gu Yuan confessed that she had accidentally killed their master, Liu Ruyi, and hoped this sacrifice would grant her peace. As Fu Rong grieved, Qi Zhu aimed a hidden weapon at her from the shadows. However, Cui Wan saw the attack and stepped forward, taking the dart in her calf.

The impact caused her to stumble toward the cliff, and when Fu Rong grabbed her, they both tumbled over the edge, managing to cling to some vines to break their fall. Xu Jin, having tracked them, arrived to find Gu Yuan’s lifeless body before spotting Fu Rong and Cui Wan below the cliff. He swiftly descended, first rescuing Cui Wan before reaching for Fu Rong. Just as he did, Fu Rong’s vine snapped.

Unwilling to let her fall alone, Xu Jin released his own rope, embracing her as they fell together onto a thick bed of vines and soft grass below, miraculously unharmed. With the truth revealed, the misunderstanding between Fu Rong and Xu Jin dissolved, and they were even able to bicker playfully. After trying to find a way out of the valley for half a day, they discovered a beautiful peach blossom forest and decided to rest there for the night.

Meanwhile, a fleeing Qi Zhu was pursued by assassins and realized Duke An had planned to kill her all along now that she had outlived her usefulness. Suddenly, Duke Huai appeared and fought off her pursuers. In the chaos, he failed to notice the bruising on Qi Zhu's wrist, an injury from a hidden weapon. Feigning that she was fine, Qi Zhu left with Duke Huai.

While the peach blossom forest was a temporary haven, Xu Jin and Fu Rong still needed to find a way out. They encountered a woman wearing a bamboo hat who guided them, claiming an eye ailment and a desire for solitude were why she lived there. After they departed, the woman removed her hat, revealing a pair of sapphire-blue eyes.

At the Imperial Guards' camp, Li Wei, on his own initiative, brought Fu Xuan to see Wu Baiqi, claiming he was gravely injured. Annoyed at being deceived again when she saw him looking lively, Fu Xuan turned to leave. Only then did Wu Baiqi’s strength fail him, and he collapsed, revealing blood seeping through the bandages on his legs.

Li Wei confessed that he had brought Fu Xuan because Wu Baiqi had been calling her name repeatedly while unconscious, leaving Wu Baiqi to deal with the consequences of his exposed ruse.

Episode 39 Recap

Li Wei, without permission, brought Fu Xuan to Wu Baiqi's tent. Wu Baiqi was furious, not wanting Fu Xuan to see him in his weakened state and confined to a wheelchair. He had been calling Fu Xuan's name while unconscious, which prompted Li Wei to send for her. Wu Baiqi dismissed Li Wei, asserting that a man who had never held a woman's hand wouldn't understand his feelings.

However, Fu Xuan had not left; she overheard their conversation from outside the tent. She later pressed Lieutenant Li for the truth about Wu Baiqi's injuries and learned that while his left leg was not gravely injured, his right leg had been deeply pierced by a sword, damaging his meridians. Complete recovery would require immense suffering, and he would likely experience pain in his knee during cold or wet weather.

Fu Rong returned from the cliff bottom to find a tearful Cui Wan, who embraced her with relief. Cui Wan recounted how she had been deceived by Qi Zhu and attacked by assassins. To prevent further attempts on their journey, Fu Rong proposed a plan: she would impersonate the princess and travel with the main procession as a decoy, while the real Princess Cui Wan would disguise herself as a commoner and take a secret route to Xuanhan.

Cui Wan agreed, ready to accept her responsibilities. She and Duke Su promised to take care of themselves and reunite safely. Xu Jia was tasked with ensuring Cui Wan's safe passage. Wu Baiqi was surprised to find a blanket covering his legs. Li Wei confessed that Fu Xuan had given specific instructions for his care, including the blanket, a stool for easier access to his wheelchair, and raising his washing basin, having overheard everything.

Realizing Fu Xuan knew of his injuries, Wu Baiqi decided there was no longer a need to hide. Later, Fu Xuan found Wu Baiqi by a lake. She passionately declared that his condition was irrelevant, vowing to push his wheelchair or even carry him if needed. Touched by her words, Wu Baiqi pulled her onto his lap as he slowly propelled the wheelchair forward.

Meanwhile, Qi Zhu sat with Duke Huai, sensing her end was near as the poison spread through her body. Acknowledging her past wrongdoings and her selfish use of the royal marriage as a pretext to escape and gain freedom, she left a cold letter disavowing their connection and departed while he slept. During a rest stop, assassins struck the marriage procession again.

Xu Jin fought and unmasked Wu Ta, but was then cornered at a cliff's edge by a second assailant, whom he recognized as Duke An before being pushed into the ravine below. Simultaneously, Fu Rong was thrown from her carriage and fell unconscious. Duke An retrieved her and brought her back to the Fu Residence. Wu Baiqi, who had secretly recovered and could now walk, planned to surprise Fu Xuan.

However, she arrived first with her own surprise: a new, lighter wheelchair. Not wanting to disappoint her, Wu Baiqi pretended his legs were still weak and sat in it. As they talked, the wheelchair unexpectedly rolled down a steep hill. Wu Baiqi leaped up, carrying Fu Xuan to safety, but they tumbled and their lips accidentally brushed. He then confessed his legs were healed and he had only pretended otherwise to spare her feelings.

Angered by his deception, Fu Xuan stormed off. Xu Jia successfully escorted Cui Wan to Xuanhan's palace. The King of Xuanhan, a refined ruler, was intrigued by Cui Wan's spirited demeanor. Cui Wan explained the assassination attempt and how Fu Rong was impersonating her. The King ordered his men to search for his missing second brother, Wu Ta, and to find the main procession. Later, Wu Baiqi climbed over the wall to see Fu Xuan, who reluctantly provided a ladder.

He presented her with a small, movable wheelchair ornament he had crafted from the wreckage of his old one, a memento of his injury and her unwavering support. Their affectionate moment was interrupted by Bao Zhu, who rushed in to report that Fu Rong had been found unconscious and brought back by Duke An. Fu Rong awoke to find her sister, Fu Xuan, who delivered the devastating news: Duke Su had died. The Emperor and Consort Shu were heartbroken.

Fu Rong visited Duke Su's Residence, now draped in white mourning cloths. There, she found the farewell letter she had sent him. Below her words, "parting love, eternally severed," he had added a new line: "In life, I shall return; in death, our love will be long." She realized he had foreseen this tragic end. In Xuanhan's palace, Xu Jin regained consciousness, having been rescued by his Uncle San from Ruyi Pavilion.

The heart armor Fu Rong had made for him had saved him from a fatal blow. Uncle San revealed he was in Xuanhan investigating the disappearance of Duke An's mother, Consort Wen, and had found clues suggesting she was alive near the border. Worried for Fu Rong, Xu Jin insisted on returning to Hengjing immediately. He bid farewell to the King of Xuanhan and Cui Wan.

The King offered an escort, admitting he suspected his brother, Wu Ta, was behind the assassination, driven by jealousy. He also clarified that Wu Ta had fabricated the story about his insistence on marrying Princess Xihe. Hearing this, Cui Wan was upset that the King had known she was mistaken and hadn't corrected her. In the capital, the distraught Emperor entrusted Duke An with managing Duke Su's funeral.

Duke An then formally requested the Emperor's permission to have Duke Su's concubine, Fu Rong, buried with him, arguing that Duke Su, who had no official wife or children, loved her deeply and should not be laid to rest alone. The Emperor granted his request.

Episode 40 (Ending) Recap

An imperial decree arrived at Duke Su's Residence, announcing Duke Su's sudden death in Xuan Han and ordering his virtuous concubine, Fu Rong, to be a sacrificial offering to appease his spirit, posthumously conferring upon her the title of Duchess Su. Upon hearing the news, Fu Rong remained calm, reflecting on her promise with Xu Jin: "In life we share the same quilt. In death we share one grave."

Fu Xuan soon rushed to her sister's side, heartbroken and pleading for her to live, even if it meant defying the imperial order. Ge Chuan then presented a divorce agreement signed by Xu Jin, explaining that Duke Su had entrusted it to him to ensure Fu Rong's safety should anything happen.

Fu Rong realized that even in death, Xu Jin was still thinking of her, but she promptly threw the agreement into the fire, declaring that Duke Su had already done enough and that accompanying him was the only thing she could do now. Fu Xuan cried out, insisting they could find another way, but Fu Rong remained resolute, entrusting her mother's care to her sister.

She then sent Lan Xiang away, urging her to leave quickly to avoid being sacrificed as well, despite Lan Xiang's tearful pleas to stay. Seeing Fu Xuan's emotional state, Wu Baiqi reluctantly rendered her unconscious, while Fu Rong entrusted the care of the Fu Family to him. Fu Rong, dressed in her formal attire, entered the coffin, holding Xu Jin's clothes, a white fan, and a bronze hairpin, and then fell unconscious.

The funeral procession departed from Duke Su's Residence, passing by the Fu Residence, where Fu Xuan, now awake, was weeping uncontrollably, scattering paper money into the street. Meanwhile, Xu Jin, having ridden day and night, finally rushed back to Duke Su's Residence, only to be told that his consort, Fu Rong, had already been sent for the sacrificial offering, as everyone believed he was dead. Immediately, he turned his horse and raced towards the mausoleum.

Bursting into the tomb and prying open the coffin, Xu Jin found it empty. At that very moment, Fu Rong awakened to find herself before Duke An, who revealed his elaborate scheme to fake her death and substitute her during the procession. Seeing the empty coffin, Xu Jin immediately suspected Duke An, deducing that Fu Rong was likely hidden at Ju Shui Pavilion. He, along with Wu Baiqi and Xu Jia, rushed to the location.

After incapacitating Wen Xing, who was guarding the outside, they entered the pavilion. Xu Jin quickly searched for a mechanism, believing Duke An was undoubtedly inside. Once a hidden chamber was discovered, the three men split up to search. Inside, Fu Rong held a fan blade to Duke An's throat, confronting him about his elaborate scheme, realizing that the "accident" that led to her supposed death was entirely his doing.

Duke An attempted to justify his actions, claiming that with Duke Su dead and her presumed deceased, she could reclaim her former freedom, rather than remaining a confined Duchess Su. Fu Rong, however, retorted, questioning if he had remained unchanged either. Suddenly, the sounds of fighting from outside alerted Fu Rong, and she exclaimed in surprise that Duke Su was still alive.

Before she could react further, Duke An knocked her unconscious and placed her back into a coffin within the secret room, then sealed the door to confront Xu Jin. Moments later, Fu Rong regained consciousness. Observing the details of the secret room, she noticed a discrepancy with a candlestick and a drop of wax, leading her to discover a loose brick. Locating the hidden mechanism, she opened the door and escaped.

Outside, Xu Jin and Duke An were locked in a fierce battle. As Xu Jin momentarily faltered, Duke An seized the opportunity to thrust his sword forward. Without hesitation, Fu Rong threw herself in front of Xu Jin, taking the poisoned blade herself. She collapsed, uttering, "If there is a next life, I still want to be your wife."

Xu Jin desperately cried out for an antidote, but Duke An, seeing Fu Rong sacrifice herself for Xu Jin, became utterly despondent. Remarking on her willingness to die for a man he deemed unworthy, Duke An declared he would join her, proclaiming his one wish was to live for one person, and then tragically plunged the poisoned sword into his own abdomen. At that moment, others, including Consort Dowager Wen, arrived. Mother and son were reunited in a tragic farewell.

Consort Dowager Wen revealed to Duke An that the fire at Hong Fu Temple was a deceptive maneuver orchestrated by the Emperor. Ministers had accused her of being a malevolent influence, and the Emperor, in a bid to protect her, had feigned her death during the blaze to ensure her safe departure from the palace. Duke An, who had spent years plotting revenge based on this misunderstanding, expressed his deep longing for his mother.

Consort Dowager Wen explained that she stayed hidden for his safety, leading Duke An to a heartbreaking realization. " I used all means to seek revenge," he confessed, "I harmed everyone. But the person who was really wrong has always been me. I'm sorry." With this newfound understanding, he finally found peace, dying in his mother's arms. On the stargazing platform, Xu Jin held a weak Fu Rong, reminding her of their promise to travel the world together.

As he spoke of their future travels through the seasons, Fu Rong slowly opened her eyes. Later, the couple visited Consort Shu to explain the miracle of Fu Rong's survival. Fu Rong revealed that she had not only crafted a heart-protecting armor for Xu Jin but also secretly prepared one for herself. The poisoned blade had not penetrated deeply, only causing a superficial wound that induced a state of false death, thus saving her life.

Consort Shu expressed her relief and worry. Duke Huai then inquired about the Princess of Qingping, Qi Zhu. Xu Jin confirmed that he had searched for her extensively but had found no trace; she had vanished after that fateful day. This revelation left Duke Huai visibly saddened. Once Wen Xing recovered from his injuries, he prepared to depart with Consort Dowager Wen to a Valley of Flowers, carrying Duke An's ashes to bury them there as per the Emperor's permission.

Lan Xiang rushed to catch up, presenting him with an embroidered pouch. She informed him that the Emperor had pardoned him and assigned him to protect Consort Dowager Wen. Wen Xing, however, sadly stated he would not return, believing he and Duke An could never atone for their past misdeeds. He advised Lan Xiang to give the well-made pouch to someone else before departing with Consort Dowager Wen.

During a court session, Duke Su reported the recent events to the Emperor and then requested that the leader of the Ruyi Pavilion be summoned. To the Emperor's surprise, Fu Rong herself appeared, holding the Ruyi Pavilion token. The Emperor expressed his astonishment, reminding her that he had previously ordered the organization's destruction. Fu Rong clarified that Ruyi Pavilion was an organization dedicated to upholding justice, composed of loyal individuals who had been misled.

She presented the token as a symbol of their willingness to serve the nation. Duke Su further vouched for Ruyi Pavilion, stating that his survival was due to their assistance and emphasizing that its impact depended on the user. Convinced, the Emperor ordered a halt to all actions against Ruyi Pavilion, announcing that its members would be reorganized into a new department under Duke Su's direct control.

With this matter resolved, Duke Su presented another unexpected request: permission to divorce his side consort, Fu Rong. The Fu Residence was soon adorned with red celebratory drapes. It was revealed that Xu Jin intended to remarry Fu Rong, this time as his official wife. He explained that promoting a concubine was considered inappropriate, and he desired to give Fu Rong a grand, legitimate wedding, allowing her to proudly wear the Phoenix Crown.

On the wedding day, Wu Baiqi arrived at the Fu Residence to pick up the bride. Fu Xuan and the other women playfully blocked the entrance, demanding red packet money. Wu Baiqi, in turn, teased Fu Xuan, insisting that all his finances were managed by her, implying she held the purse strings for their future together, leading to good-natured banter before they finally let him in.

Under her red veil, Fu Rong smiled radiantly as Xu Jin, mounted on a tall horse, led the wedding procession. The couple finally exchanged vows, officially sealing their union. Later, in the bridal chambers, after the guests had departed, Xu Jin gently lifted her veil. Fu Rong, now officially his wife, tenderly addressed him as "my dear husband."

He asked about her happy demeanor, to which she replied that she had experienced the same recurring dream as before, but this time, the nightmare had transformed into a beautiful dream.