The Eternal Love Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Eternal Love Synopsis
A magical power changed the second daughter of the Qu family of the Dongyue Kingdom.
The second daughter of the Qu family, Qu Tan’er, who attempted suicide for the Grand Prince, has changed her temperament from then on, sometimes gentle and introverted, sometimes savage and bold.
With a “dual personality”, Qu Tang’er had to marry the eighth prince Mo Liancheng by order of the emperor.
But because she had an affair with the Grand Prince Mo Yihuai, she was suspected by the Eighth prince Mo Liancheng.
From then on, she was caught in the power struggle of the Dongyue Kingdom.
However, Qu Xiaodan who has a witty and bold personality gradually gained the trust of the Eighth Prince.
They turned from suspicion to admiration for each other.
However, Qu Tan’er who is gentle and introverted always remembered her old relationship with the Grand Prince Mo Yihuai, and wanted to help the Grand Prince seek the throne…
The Eternal Love Recap
Episode 1 Recap
At the genesis of the universe, time flowed consistently and space remained static. However, influenced by a mysterious force from the Xuanling Continent, the laws of time and space in Dongyue were altered. This shift led to a remarkable event: a modern-day real estate agent was transported into the body of Qu Tan'er, the Second Daughter of the Qu family in the Dongyue Empire.
This occurred a month after the original Qu Tan'er had attempted suicide over her love for the Grand Prince, a trauma that seemingly fractured her personality. Awakening in her bed, the modern girl, now inhabiting Qu Tan'er's body, expressed frustration at still being in this "stupid place." Her maid, Jingxin, attended to her, but the girl bristled at being called "My Lady," insisting Jingxin address her as "Xiaotan."
She complained about the poor quality of the modern-style items she had commissioned and was agitated that the ancient bed from her transmigration memory was missing. Jingxin then informed her that the Eighth Prince, Mo Liancheng, was visiting to discuss their marriage. The news displeased Xiaotan, who assumed her father, Minister of Military Affairs Qu Jianglin, had arranged a match with an old, unattractive man. Jingxin corrected her, praising Mo Liancheng's renowned handsomeness.
Realizing all the other servants had gone to the front yard to see the prince, Xiaotan saw an opportunity to escape. Meanwhile, Mo Liancheng sat on a broken bridge, playing chess with his bodyguard, Yu Hao. Masked assassins descended, demanding his Royal Command token. While Mo Liancheng remained calmly focused on his game, Yu Hao effortlessly dispatched the attackers. Just as the prince was about to make a winning move, a final assassin lunged from the water.
Without looking up, Mo Liancheng flicked a chess piece, fatally striking the man. He then ordered Yu Hao to eliminate anyone who had witnessed his display of martial skill. At the same time, Xiaotan was scaling the backyard wall. Once atop it, she realized she couldn't get down. Just then, Mo Liancheng arrived. Unaware of his identity and struck by his appearance, she brazenly asked him to help her down.
Mo Liancheng coldly refused, citing the impropriety of physical contact between an unmarried man and woman. As Jingxin and other servants rushed over, Xiaotan fabricated a story about being kidnapped to be sold to a brothel, but she lost her grip and fell. Upon rising, her demeanor instantly transformed. The timid, original Qu Tan'er resurfaced, apologizing for any "ridiculous" behavior and scolding Jingxin for her over-familiarity. Shortly after, the original Qu Tan'er was summoned to the front hall.
Mo Liancheng was already with her father and stepmother, the Grand Lady. Qu Jianglin subtly suggested the engagement could be broken since Tan'er was a concubine's child, but the Prince firmly stated he would not defy an imperial decree. When Qu Tan'er entered, Mo Liancheng tested her by asking the meaning of "sissy," a word Xiaotan had used earlier. The real Tan'er feigned ignorance. Satisfied, Mo Liancheng announced he would send betrothal gifts and departed.
Outside, he met his brother, the Fourteenth Prince Mo Jingxuan, who worried about the assassination attempt. Mo Liancheng explained his strategy of maintaining a low profile. Later, the Grand Lady confronted Qu Tan'er about the wall-climbing incident. Accusing her of shaming the family and still harboring feelings for the Grand Prince in competition with her elder sister, Pan'er, she ordered a harsh punishment with silver needles. The unbearable pain caused the personalities to switch again.
Xiaotan awoke, screaming and furiously accusing the Grand Lady of bullying and having "menopausal syndrome." Outraged, the Grand Lady declared her insane and had her locked in the brig. Yu Hao reported the cruel punishment to Mo Liancheng, who dismissed it as a calculated "show" by the Qu family.
Aware of her past suicide attempt for the Grand Prince and her father's political allegiances, he saw the event as a ploy for sympathy and ordered Yu Hao to have her watched closely upon entering his residence. Confined to the brig, Xiaotan demanded to be let out. The guards taunted that she first had to embroider a sachet. In a fit of rage, she swung her arm, accidentally extinguishing the candle.
Fumbling in the darkness, she hit a hidden mechanism, revealing a secret door. Peeking inside, she was enveloped in a flashback to her transmigration: pursued by cloaked figures, she had taken refuge in a dilapidated house where she found an ancient bed with strange inscriptions. After reading them aloud, she fainted. The memory resurfaced, connecting her to a mysterious item that had been missing for a hundred years.
Episode 2 Recap
A real estate saleswoman from a bustling metropolis found herself as Qu Tan'er, the Second Daughter of the Qu family, who seemed to suffer from amnesia or mental shifts. Qu Tan'er awoke with a start, realizing she was no longer in the brig but back in her room, and it was already noon. She had memories of being in the brig just moments before.
Jing Xin explained that Qu Tan'er had indeed returned from the brig and changed clothes, and that the embroidery was completed by Qu Tan'er herself, a fact she seemed to have forgotten. Soon after, a matron from the Grand Lady’s side arrived, chastising Qu Tan’er for being late to prepare her dowry for the wedding ceremony the next day. Angered by the scolding, Qu Tan'er retorted, using modern slang to insult the Grand Lady.
Jing Xin tried to cover for her, claiming Qu Tan'er was unwell. The matron threatened to report Qu Tan'er’s disrespectful words to the Grand Lady before storming off. Qu Tan'er confided in Jing Xin about her intermittent memory and confusing behavior, and the fact that she and the original Qu Tan'er shared the same body. Jing Xin confirmed that her lady had been acting strangely, sometimes preferring to be called "My Lady," sometimes "Xiaotan," and displaying unpredictable preferences for food.
Qu Tan'er pondered if she was experiencing the effects of time travel, a parallel universe, or even schizophrenia, feeling frustrated by her lack of scientific knowledge to explain her condition. Later that day, Qu Tan'er, resigned to her fate, found herself in the marrying sedan, heading to the Eighth Prince’s palace. The realization that she was about to marry a stranger and spend her wedding night with him filled her with deep anxiety.
She resolved to stop it at all costs. Upon arrival, after complaining of exhaustion, she instructed Jing Xin to gather a wooden tub, a barrel of water, string, and a thick wooden stick, intending to create a trap to deter the Eighth Prince. Meanwhile, at the wedding banquet, Mo Yihuai, the Grand Prince and older brother to the Eighth Prince, arrived at the bridal chamber. Yu Hao, the Eighth Prince’s escort, emerged, preventing him from entering.
The Eighth Prince then appeared, confronting his brother, and a heated argument ensued, revealing their deep rivalry not just for Qu Tan'er but also for power. Mo Yihuai eventually relented and departed. From within the bridal chamber, Qu Tan'er heard the commotion outside. Anticipating the Eighth Prince’s arrival, she covered herself with the red veil and called out to him, inviting him to enter.
When the Eighth Prince finally pushed open the door, he calmly asked Jing Xin to leave, noticing her strange demeanor and correctly deducing that a trap was set. He effortlessly dodged Qu Tan'er’s elaborate snare and swiftly moved to the bed, pinning her beneath him. Startled, Qu Tan'er cried out, feigning menstruation to avoid intimacy. However, the Eighth Prince, unconvinced, accused her of putting on a show for Mo Yihuai. With a sarcastic remark, he bounded away, leaving the room.
Infuriated by his mocking, Qu Tan'er angrily got up, forgetting her own trap. She accidentally triggered it, releasing a torrent of cold water that drenched her and a heavy wooden log that struck her, causing her to lose consciousness once more. The next morning, Qu Tan'er awoke with a serene and dignified demeanor. Jing Xin immediately recognized that the original persona of the Second Daughter of the Qu family had resurfaced.
While getting ready, Qu Tan'er recalled a conversation with her father, who stressed the importance of gaining the Eighth Prince’s trust and favor to aid the Grand Prince in his bid for the crown, ensuring the Qu family’s survival and prosperity. She promised her father she would do anything necessary for the Grand Prince’s benefit and her family’s standing, lamenting that she was merely a puppet of destiny.
Recognizing her fluctuating states, the original Qu Tan'er instructed Jing Xin to be vigilant and remind her to be cautious and proper whenever she exhibited unusual behavior, particularly when she behaved in ways that would displease her father or the Grand Lady. Jing Xin confirmed her understanding, giving examples of such behavior, like criticizing hairstyles, preferring straight eyebrows, or asking to be called "Xiaotan" instead of "My Lady."
Jing Xin internally pondered if the mysterious other persona was a devil or a god. Soon, two of the Eighth Prince's concubines, Yi Xiangnong and Yun Youlian, arrived at the bridal chamber under the guise of paying respects. Unbeknownst to them, the Eighth Prince had intentionally directed them there, intending to use their visit to gather information against his brother.
The concubines immediately began to verbally humiliate Qu Tan'er, making pointed remarks about her beauty being useless if the Eighth Prince showed no favor, and openly discussing her past closeness with the Grand Prince, even her suicide attempt for him. They speculated that she had abandoned Mo Yihuai for the Eighth Prince, believing he had a better chance at the throne.
The original Qu Tan'er endured their taunts, but her patience finally snapped when they implied she was selfishly trying to keep all benefits within her family. She slammed a teapot onto the table, demanding they leave and stating that the rumors about her and the Grand Prince were false. As the concubines turned to leave, Yi Xiangnong tripped Qu Tan'er. As Qu Tan'er fell, her personality shifted abruptly.
The time-traveling, sassy persona returned, immediately demanding to know who the two women were. Upon learning they were the Eighth Prince's concubines, Qu Tan'er angrily ordered them to turn around, disparaged their taste, and accused them of seeking trouble. Declaring that they would witness what a "wife beating the mistress" looked like, she furiously slapped both Yi Xiangnong and Yun Youlian, then had them violently thrown out of the room amidst their cries of pain.
Episode 3 Recap
The prestigious Eighth Prince of Dongyue, Mo Liancheng, believed his wife, Qu Tan'er, was a spy from the Qu family because she had previously attempted suicide for his elder brother. However, her unconventional behavior began to pique his interest. Mo Liancheng learned from Yu Hao that Qu Tan'er had dealt with his two concubines. Instead of being angry, he praised her spirit and instructed Yu Hao to watch her closely.
Mo Liancheng had been experiencing headaches and hearing his late grandfather's voice in his mind. He missed his grandfather, who had raised him. He was troubled that his grandfather had given him the Royal Command token but never named him Crown Prince before he disappeared. In her chambers, Qu Tan'er told Jing Xin about beating Mo Liancheng's two concubines.
Jing Xin advised her to win favor with Mo Liancheng for protection, but Qu Tan'er refused, stating she intended to leave and find the ancient bed, believing it was the key to her transmigration. Jing Xin promised to help her search the palace. Under the cover of night, a cloaked man, Life Hunter, and his female companion infiltrated the Prince's mansion. They removed their hoods, and the man revealed a red mark on his forehead.
His companion channeled energy into him, causing a black mist to emanate from the mark. The "master's" voice instructed them to find an ambitious and powerful individual within Dongyue's royal family to help them locate the Soul Bead, hidden in the palace. Qu Tan'er tried to escape by scaling a wall. She told Jing Xin she hadn't found the ancient bed and saw no reason to stay. Jing Xin warned her that a Princess fleeing would be a felony.
Mo Liancheng appeared, questioning her intentions. Qu Tan'er claimed she was homesick and wanted to see her family home. Mo Liancheng reminded her she would visit her family the day after tomorrow. Defeated, Qu Tan'er descended, vowing to find another escape route. Jing Xin suggested the ancient bed might be hidden elsewhere in the palace, prompting Qu Tan'er to agree to stay and search. Mo Liancheng told Yu Hao to inform the Empress Dowager of his visit to the palace.
He admitted to Yu Hao that while he disliked her personality, she was the only one in the royal court brave enough to openly support him against the Emperor. The next day, Qu Tan'er, now refined, asked Mo Liancheng to accompany her on her return visit to her family. Mo Liancheng feigned illness and declined. She had to return alone, knowing the humiliation of a married woman returning without her husband.
While Mo Liancheng was alone, the cloaked man and woman reappeared, offering to help him become Crown Prince if he helped them. Mo Liancheng refused, stating he would achieve his goals independently and fought them off. Back at the Qu family mansion, Qu Tan'er's solo return angered her father and the Grand Lady. The Grand Lady ordered needle torture, and Qu Tan'er lost consciousness.
Upon waking, the modern Qu Tan'er emerged, recognizing the Grand Lady's face as the cause of her pain. Enraged, she lunged at the Grand Lady. Mo Liancheng unexpectedly arrived, startling everyone. He defended Qu Tan'er, silencing her tormentors, and took her into his protection. Mo Liancheng escorted a dazed Qu Tan'er into a carriage. She chattered incessantly, annoying him.
He laid down strict rules: she must avoid places and things she shouldn't see, adhere to proper feminine virtues, and never go against his wishes. He warned her that disobedience would result in death. They were heading to the Empress Dowager's garden, leading her to muse aloud about the Dongyue Empire's lack of grandeur. At the Empress Dowager's garden, she greeted Mo Liancheng warmly but turned cold upon seeing Qu Tan'er.
She pointed out Qu Tan'er's status as a concubine's daughter and lectured her on proper conduct, advising her to avoid trouble and distance herself from the Grand Prince to prevent rumors. Zhao Qingyun, Mo Liancheng's childhood friend and the Empress Dowager's grandniece, arrived and embraced him. The Empress Dowager hinted at her past desire for them to marry, making Qu Tan'er feel out of place. Qu Tan'er tried to leave, suggesting Mo Liancheng and Zhao Qingyun spend time together.
However, Mo Liancheng refused to let her leave, insisting she stay by his side. He forcefully kissed Qu Tan'er in front of Zhao Qingyun. Qu Tan'er, reacted with shock and anger, raising her hand to strike him back.
Episode 4 Recap
In her bedchamber, Qu Tan'er’s back was covered in bloodstains and needle marks inflicted by the Grand Lady. As Jing Xin tended to the wounds, her heart ached for her mistress. Qu Tan'er winced, joking that she hoped the injuries wouldn't leave scars as she lacked money for cosmetic surgery. She complained that her "poor beautiful back" would now prevent her from wearing revealing tops to flirt with handsome men.
When asked for medicine, Jing Xin regretfully explained that the Grand Lady had confiscated all their remedies before the wedding, deeming them bad luck. Jing Xin then offered to ask Mo Liancheng for help, but Tan'er vehemently refused, certain he would rather see her suffer. Accepting her mistress's decision, Jing Xin went to the kitchen to get boiled eggs for a hot compress.
Left alone, Qu Tan'er recalled the day's unexpected kiss and grew agitated, cursing Mo Liancheng as a "pervert" and a "jerk" for stealing her first kiss. She lamented that he was a cunning man, unlike the gentle princes in TV dramas. As she vented, the person wiping her back suddenly pressed harder, causing her to cry out. Believing it was Jing Xin, she advised her never to marry a man like Mo Liancheng.
When she turned, she was shocked to find Mo Liancheng himself. He coolly stated that since he was such a "pervert," he saw no reason to leave and intended to act like one. He then threatened her, reminding her that insulting the Royal Family was a crime punishable by at least ten years in prison. Terrified that imprisonment would prevent her from returning to her own time, Tan'er immediately changed her demeanor.
She sweetly apologized, claiming her outburst was due to pain, and showered him with compliments, calling him "charming, handsome, and lovable." Seemingly unmoved, Mo Liancheng agreed not to be angry on the condition that she truthfully answer all his questions. Mo Liancheng asked if the Grand Lady had always tortured her. Qu Tan'er confirmed she had many old wounds that hadn't healed. Skeptical, Mo Liancheng demanded proof.
Tan'er pulled back her blanket to expose her back and asked if he could see. Claiming he couldn't see clearly, he prompted her to shift closer. As she did, she unintentionally turned, bringing her face just inches from his in a tense, intimate moment. The spell was broken by Jing Xin's return with the eggs. Mo Liancheng composedly instructed Jing Xin to care for the princess before departing.
Once he was gone, Tan'er asked Jing Xin about the law threatening ten years in prison, only to learn that no such law existed, realizing Mo Liancheng had been toying with her. The next morning, Qu Tan'er's sister, Qu Pan'er, emerged from the bedchamber. Jing Xin, mistaking her for Tan'er, reported that she had searched the entire palace for the ancient bed, with only Mo Liancheng's inaccessible bedroom remaining.
Feigning ignorance, Pan'er had Jing Xin recount the story of Tan'er's obsessive search. Internally, Pan'er, who was on a mission from Mo Yihuai to find the Royal Command token, realized she could use the search for the bed as a perfect cover for her own activities. She then instructed Jing Xin to prepare tea and snacks for Mo Liancheng's study. Meanwhile, Yu Hao reported to Mo Liancheng that Jing Xin was searching for something.
Mo Liancheng, already aware of the deception, remarked that the "prey" was finally revealing itself. Just then, Pan'er, still posing as Tan'er, entered his study. She urged him to rest, but he curtly dismissed her. He then bluntly told her, "people get tired after pretending for a long time."
When she feigned confusion, he turned his attention to Jing Xin, threateningly asking if his "dear wife" would give the maid to him as a gift, which caused Jing Xin to faint from shock. Pan'er then deliberately spilled tea on Mo Liancheng, hoping for an excuse to follow him to his bedroom. He stopped her, warning that his bedroom was off-limits and any theft would have severe consequences. Defeated, she departed.
Later that night, a woman was seen hiding a note inside a loose brick in the backyard wall. The Emperor summoned Mo Yihuai and Mo Liancheng to discuss the escalating border conflict and the misconduct of General Guo Yu. Mo Yihuai suggested a lenient approach, proposing that the general atone for his actions on the battlefield. Mo Liancheng, however, offered a more insightful solution, identifying that the general's arrogance stemmed from over-centralized authority.
He proposed implementing a system of checks and balances by sending supervisors and strengthening the soldiers' individual power, thus solving the root problem. The Emperor praised Mo Liancheng for pinpointing the "crux of the problem" and urged Mo Yihuai to improve his own judgment. Bored and hungry, Qu Tan'er was doing yoga when Jing Xin returned with snacks. Jing Xin also brought news that Mo Liancheng had been urgently summoned to the Emperor's palace.
Seizing the opportunity, Tan'er declared her intention to search his bedroom for the ancient bed that night. Jing Xin, confused by the impostor's visit to the study earlier, nervously warned her against taking more risks, but Tan'er was resolute, desperate to find the bed and return home. Elsewhere, Mo Yihuai was ambushed by two cloaked figures. After being swiftly defeated, he learned they were practitioners of witchcraft.
They offered to help him ascend the throne in exchange for the Soul Bead, a sacred treasure they believed was hidden in the Imperial Study. Eager for power, Mo Yihuai readily agreed to their terms. Qu Tan'er snuck into Mo Liancheng's luxurious bedroom and was overjoyed to find the ancient bed. Convinced she could finally go home, she decided to take one of his expensive vases as compensation for her suffering.
She lay on the bed and counted down, but nothing happened. As she tried again, she was startled by Mo Liancheng's voice right beside her. Panicked, she claimed to be a "nightwalker" who had wandered into the wrong room, then changed her story to having followed a "special smell." Mo Liancheng sternly reminded her that she had violated his rules.
He then terrifyingly offered her three ways to die: a certificate of divorce followed by suicide, slitting her own throat with his sword, or taking a quick-acting poison. Qu Tan'er frantically pleaded for her life, arguing that as Minister Qu's daughter, her death would be problematic. Mo Liancheng coldly retorted that he would simply claim she died protecting him from an ambush.
He then revealed his true anger was that she had "touched his belongings," specifically a "secret compartment at the back of the cabinet." As he pressed her, an assassin appeared, seizing Tan'er and demanding the Royal Command token. Feigning indifference, Mo Liancheng declared that Tan'er meant nothing to him. As the assassin was momentarily distracted, Mo Liancheng killed him with a swift dart. Still in shock, Tan'er was escorted back to her room.
Yu Hao searched the dead assassin and found a note stating the Royal Command token was in Mo Liancheng's room. Examining the note, Mo Liancheng observed that it was written in a woman's hand and mused that every woman in the palace was now a suspect, anticipating a "good show."
Episode 5 Recap
Qu Xiaotan returned to her chambers, lamenting that despite using the ancient bed, she couldn't travel back to her own time. Jingxin interrupted her, revealing that the bed had belonged to Mo Liancheng since childhood and was said to have refreshing properties. She added that an old carpenter from outside the city had crafted it. Realizing the carpenter might hold the key to the bed's secrets, Xiaotan instructed Jingxin to find the man the next morning.
Prince Mo Liancheng was deeply troubled by his wife's erratic behavior, which shifted between a dignified lady and the unconventional Xiaotan. His maids offered contradictory descriptions of her tastes: one said she favored plain, traditional attire, while another claimed she preferred bright colors and revealing outfits. Frustrated, Mo Liancheng also pondered the mystery of the Soul Bead, which a Life Hunter had suggested was hidden in the Emperor's palace.
Meanwhile, in the Emperor’s study, Prince Mo Yihuai discovered a hidden paper in a wooden compartment. After a young servant briefly interrupted him, Mo Yihuai examined the paper, which contained a quatrain poem from his grandfather: "One hardly gets drunk when drinking by the winding stream." Unable to decipher its meaning or connect it to the rumored Soul Bead, he returned the paper to its hiding place and left with a grave expression.
At the Eighth Prince's residence, Mo Liancheng discussed with the Fourteenth Prince, Mo Jingxuan, the possibility that the princess was a spy for the Grand Prince. He hinted that a "good show" was about to unfold. Just then, Qu Xiaotan entered, clumsily tripping. Upon seeing the handsome Mo Jingxuan, she became animated, openly admiring his looks. She offered breakfast to Mo Liancheng, who, after confirming he would spare Jingxin, instructed Xiaotan to grind ink for him.
Lady Yun and Lady Yi soon arrived and tried to take over the ink grinding to curry favor. Xiaotan refused, and in the ensuing struggle, the inkstone toppled, splashing ink on the two ladies. They accused Xiaotan of acting deliberately, but Mo Liancheng intervened. He ordered all three women to copy the family rules, using the task as a pretext to compare their handwriting with a secret letter he possessed.
Qu Xiaotan's modern, messy script, which made Mo Jingxuan laugh, did not match the letter, nor did the handwriting of the other two ladies. All three were cleared of suspicion. Feeling wronged, Xiaotan demanded "spiritual compensation" and insisted on having the ancient bed from his room. Mo Liancheng agreed but remained suspicious. He later instructed Yu Hao to keep a close watch on her.
His suspicion deepened, as the messenger's physique matched the princess's, but the handwriting did not, leaving him to wonder if she was simply eccentric or hiding a larger secret. Later, Mo Liancheng pleaded with the Emperor to take back the Royal Command token, explaining that assassins were constantly targeting his palace for it. Mo Jingxuan interjected, suggesting the assassin could be a royal, implicating the Grand Prince's escort for contacting the notorious Bloodstain Hall.
The Emperor refused to reclaim the token, stating it was a gift from Mo Liancheng's grandfather, and ordered him to keep it safe while promising to investigate the assassin. Delighted to have the ancient bed installed, Xiaotan discovered a letter with handwriting identical to the secret message. Jingxin revealed that Qu Tan'er had written many such letters to the Grand Prince.
The revelation shocked Xiaotan, who finally realized she had been sharing a body with Qu Tan'er since the day Tan'er attempted suicide over the Grand Prince's marriage a month prior. She tried to explain time travel to a bewildered Jingxin. To communicate, Xiaotan wrote a letter to Qu Tan'er, introducing herself as a real estate agent from another world. As Jingxin relayed the message, she comically misinterpreted Xiaotan's modern slang.
In her reply, Qu Tan'er expressed guilt for the hardships Xiaotan had endured and promised to help her return home. She warned Xiaotan to keep their body-sharing a strict secret, fearing they would be burned as demons if exposed, and instructed Jingxin to ensure Xiaotan's behavior didn't arouse suspicion. In the courtyard, Mo Liancheng was playing the qin when Princess Qingyun arrived.
To deter her, he engaged in a public display of affection with a sleepy Qu Xiaotan, loudly declaring his love. He secretly signaled to Xiaotan that he had a "special gift" for her if she played along. Angered, Princess Qingyun vowed to marry him one day and stormed off. After her departure, Xiaotan expected information about the bed. Instead, Mo Liancheng presented her with the Royal Command token, entrusting the powerful heirloom to her.
Unaware of its significance, Xiaotan saw only a "lump of gold" and eagerly accepted it, unknowingly passing another of Mo Liancheng's tests. Later that night, unable to sleep, Xiaotan yearned for modern nightlife. She persuaded Jingxin to bring her wine, and she proceeded to drink heavily. The next morning, a weak and disoriented Qu Tan'er awoke entangled in her bedding with a wine jar nearby. Startled, she discovered the Royal Command token among the covers.
Jingxin explained that Mo Liancheng had given it to Xiaotan for safekeeping. Understanding the token's power, Qu Tan'er immediately resolved to deliver it to the Grand Prince, accepting her role as a pawn in his political ambitions.
Episode 6 Recap
Qu Tan'er, possessing the Royal Command Token, intended to deliver it to Mo Yihuai at the Qu mansion. She instructed her maid, Jingxin, to invent an excuse about an emergency to bypass the palace guards. To their surprise, the guards let them pass freely, a decision orchestrated by Mo Liancheng, who had already dispatched Yu Hao to discreetly follow them.
Soon after leaving the palace, Qu Tan'er was jostled by a passerby and fell, at which point her personality switched to Qu Xiaotan. Delighted by the bustling market, Qu Xiaotan was questioned by Jingxin about the Royal Command Token. Unaware of its significance, Xiaotan impulsively decided to pawn the "gold thing" for money. Jingxin revealed that the token was meant for Mo Yihuai and pleaded with her not to pawn it.
Qu Xiaotan refused, citing her fear of Mo Liancheng's wrath and noting that he, as their "provider," treated her better than the Qu family. Insisting that money was a woman's most important asset, she pawned the token. Yu Hao reported this to Mo Liancheng, who wondered if it was a genuine lack of awareness or a covert attempt to pass the token to Mo Yihuai.
When Yu Hao confirmed the pawnshop was unaffiliated with the Grand Prince, Mo Liancheng was satisfied, remarking that this was the final step before he could "make up for his wedding night." Later that night, as Qu Xiaotan secretly buried the silver she received, Mo Liancheng unexpectedly appeared, startling her. He demanded to know the whereabouts of the Royal Command Token. She casually asserted her right to dispose of a gift, dismissing it as "an ordinary piece of gold."
Mo Liancheng sternly corrected her, revealing the token was "specially forged by the late Emperor" and could "command all armies," warning her of execution if it fell into the wrong hands. Terrified, Qu Xiaotan offered him the buried silver, profusely apologizing and claiming she thought it was merely high-purity gold. After she swore an oath that she had only pawned it, he accepted her explanation but warned her against pawning his gifts in the future.
He concluded that despite her strange behavior, she was not a spy for the Grand Prince, thus dispelling his suspicions. The next day, Qu Xiaotan angrily berated Jingxin for knowing Qu Tan'er planned to give the token to Mo Yihuai and failing to explain its importance, accusing her of dragging them both into danger. She then wrote a harsh letter to Qu Tan'er.
After reading Xiaotan's accusations, Qu Tan'er angrily turned on Jingxin, blaming her for letting Xiaotan pawn the token and ruining the chance to help Mo Yihuai. Jingxin, caught between them, felt unfairly blamed by both. That day marked Mo Yihuai's birthday, which Mo Liancheng and Qu Tan'er attended. Mo Yihuai greeted them warmly, but Mo Liancheng issued a veiled warning not to "fight for something that doesn't belong to you," referring to Tan'er.
The princes then engaged in a tense exchange over the Crown Prince position. Meanwhile, Qu Pan'er confronted her sister, accusing her of trying to seduce Mo Yihuai and threatening to disfigure her. Qu Xiaotan, now in control of the body, retorted that Pan'er should "keep an eye on him." Incited by Princess Qingyun, a furious Qu Pan'er pushed her, causing her to fall and injure her forehead.
As Mo Yihuai rushed over, Mo Liancheng sternly told him to "tell your woman to behave!" before Qu Xiaotan insisted she was fine and they should leave. That evening, Mo Liancheng confronted Qu Xiaotan about her lingering gaze toward Mo Yihuai at the party. After he kissed her, she angrily demanded a "divorce letter" as compensation. He agreed to consider it on one condition: she had to sleep with him. If he "liked it," he would write the letter.
Believing it was her only way to get the letter and return to her own time, Xiaotan reluctantly agreed. However, afterward, Mo Liancheng cruelly declared, "I didn't like it." Infuriated by his deceit, Qu Xiaotan snapped that she was the one who didn't like it, as he was "so bad in bed." The next morning, Qu Tan'er awoke to the devastating realization she was no longer a maiden.
Overcome with shame, she attempted to hang herself, only to be saved by Jingxin. Her despair was confirmed when an imperial doctor advised her not to have "intercourse too often." Jingxin tried to console her, arguing that Xiaotan acted to secure a divorce letter for them both. But Tan'er, feeling a profound loss of control, remained inconsolable. Meanwhile, after being summoned by the Emperor, Mo Yihuai remained tight-lipped about the imperial decrees he received, which made Mo Liancheng suspicious.
Spurred on by the news of Tan'er's suicide attempt, Mo Liancheng resolved to take action and infiltrate his brother's residence. As this was happening, Qu Xiaotan read a distressing letter from Qu Tan'er, who pleaded that she would become a ghost if Xiaotan repeated her actions with the prince. Suddenly, shouts of "Assassin!" were heard. Xiaotan spotted a wounded, black-clad figure she recognized as Mo Liancheng and dragged him inside.
She insisted on secrecy and treated his severe arrow wound herself. Later, Yu Hao arrived and administered an antidote for sleeping gas. Upon waking, Mo Liancheng acknowledged her care, and a later visit from a consort confirmed that the chaos from an "assassin" at the Grand Prince's palace was indeed Mo Liancheng's failed infiltration.
Episode 7 Recap
Madam Yun, Mo Liancheng's concubine, visited the Snow Courtyard and brought up rumors of an assassin at Mo Yihuai's palace. Qu Xiaotan, knowing Mo Liancheng was the assassin, feigned ignorance. Madam Yun attributed the news to gossiping servants and offered to silence them, prompting Xiaotan to inwardly remark on her "paparazzi"-like nature. Soon after, a servant invited them to the shooting range, where Mo Liancheng and the 14th Prince were practicing archery.
Mo Liancheng, still nursing his arrow wound from the raid on Mo Yihuai's palace, was using the public practice to dispel any suspicion of his involvement. When Xiaotan found the event boring, Madam Yun proposed that Xiaotan hold a flower in her mouth for Mo Liancheng to use as a target. Recognizing this as a test, Xiaotan refused, but Madam Yun pressured her by questioning her trust in Mo Liancheng's skills.
Mo Liancheng intervened, accepting the challenge but adding that others would have to follow suit. A nervous Xiaotan mentally promised not to call Mo Liancheng "sissy" again if he succeeded. He executed a perfect shot, piercing the flower without harming her. Mo Liancheng then turned the tables, instructing a terrified Madam Yun to be the next target.
He threatened her by saying he "could not aim straight all the time," a clear warning for her to stop bullying his wife, telling Xiaotan he would help her get revenge. As the Mid-Autumn Festival approached, a melancholic Qu Xiaotan reminisced about celebrating with her parents in her own time. Overcome with homesickness, she knelt before her ancient bed, desperately pleading for it to return her to her world before falling asleep.
She awoke startled to find herself resting on Mo Liancheng's lap. She called him a "hoodlum," but he calmly asserted his right as her husband in his own palace. After some playful banter where she called him a "rogue," she showed concern for his injury, and he held her close, telling her not to think of leaving.
The next morning, a flustered Xiaotan insisted to Jingxin that she and Mo Liancheng had simply gone to sleep early and that "nothing had happened." When a servant invited them to the Qu family's Mid-Autumn reunion, the Qu Tan'er persona firmly refused, disavowing any relation to the family. However, upon learning that Mo Yihuai and Qu Pan'er would also be present, the Qu Xiaotan persona took over and eagerly agreed to attend.
She confessed to Jingxin her plan was to create an opportunity for Qu Tan'er and Mo Yihuai to meet. Meanwhile, Mo Liancheng learned that his wife's change of heart was linked to Mo Yihuai's attendance. Separately, Mo Yihuai questioned Qu Jianglin about a legendary treasure, the Soul Bead, which he had heard his wife Pan'er mention seeing in the manor as a child. At the reunion, Mo Yihuai was observed watching the Princess intently.
Noticing this, a jealous Mo Liancheng commanded her to feed him, pointedly telling Mo Yihuai not to be distracted by another man's wife to assert his claim. Later, Xiaotan saw the Grand Lady and Qu Pan'er confronting her mother. In the pavilion, Qu Pan'er was berating the Ninth Lady for her own unhappiness. The Princess, in her assertive Qu Xiaotan persona, intervened to defend her mother. Outraged, Qu Pan'er demanded she kneel for disrespecting an elder sister.
When she defiantly refused, the Grand Lady and Qu Pan'er insulted her, and Pan'er prepared to strike her. Just then, Mo Yihuai arrived and stopped his wife, followed closely by Mo Liancheng, who declared his wife was unwell and insisted they leave. Back at their palace, a brief tense exchange, likely from the Qu Tan'er persona, accused Mo Liancheng of having ulterior motives. The mood shifted as the Qu Xiaotan persona took over, playfully praising his "acting skills."
They bantered, and she reassured him he was more "handsome" than Mo Yihuai. She then explained that a woman needs a "sense of security," which she defined not as physical safety but as the emotional support of knowing someone has your back. Intrigued, Mo Liancheng revealed he frequently dreamed of a world outside Dongyue—of war, an alchemy furnace, and a long-haired elder—and that he'd also dreamed of her, which made her feel strangely familiar to him.
He called for a map, and Xiaotan was stunned to realize Dongyue was not on Earth. As she struggled to explain her origins, he teased her about giving her a divorce certificate if she made him happy. Internally, Xiaotan fretted, realizing she was on the verge of breaking her pact with Qu Tan'er about not becoming intimate with Mo Liancheng, admitting to herself that her growing feelings were "involuntary."
Episode 8 Recap
Qu Tan'er awoke feeling exhausted after the previous night's events with Mo Liancheng, much to Jing Xin's agitation. Jing Xin, initially angry and accusing her of lacking credibility, quickly backtracked upon realizing it was the gentle Qu Tan'er, not Qu Xiaotan. She vaguely explained her outburst as part of an "agreement" with Xiaotan. Sensing Jing Xin was hiding something, Qu Tan'er pressed for answers, but Jing Xin merely said that Xiaotan had felt unwell and wanted to sleep longer.
Meanwhile, in the Chamber of Secrets at the Qu residence, a cloaked man and woman found a hidden shelf emitting a brilliant purple light—the Soul Bead their master had been searching for. The man used a spiritual technique, with black smoke emanating from an emblem on his forehead, to communicate with their master. He reported the discovery, and his master confirmed its identity, celebrating his own impending invincibility.
The master then instructed them to seize the bead when the Qu family hands it to Mo Yihuai, warning that it must not fall into the hands of a certain other individual. Later, Qu Tan'er joined Mo Liancheng for lunch. He had prepared a dish of fish with extra chilies, a preference unique to Qu Xiaotan.
During the meal, Mo Liancheng made a suggestive remark about the previous night, prompting a panicked Jing Xin to claim her mistress had been ill. Growing suspicious, Qu Tan'er pressed Mo Liancheng for details, only for him to playfully suggest she had found his performance unsatisfactory. Deeply embarrassed, Qu Tan'er abruptly left and later reprimanded Jing Xin for her poor attempt at concealment, warning her she would be punished.
To prevent Qu Xiaotan from taking over her body again, Qu Tan'er decided to "break up" with her other self by preventing any head injuries. Despite the summer heat, she wrapped herself in a thick quilt to protect her head. The stuffy, smelly room made Jing Xin uncomfortable, and during their conversation, the switch happened. A bewildered Qu Xiaotan appeared, quickly deducing that the quilt was Qu Tan'er's attempt to suppress her.
Enraged, she accused Qu Tan'er of trying to kill her. Deciding to retaliate, Qu Xiaotan forced herself to stay awake for two days, knowing that sleep could trigger a switch back to Qu Tan'er. During this time, a note arrived from Mo Yihuai's bodyguard, addressed specifically to her, containing the location of the ancient bed carpenter she sought.
While Jing Xin was suspicious, Xiaotan saw it as an opportunity to use Mo Yihuai's lingering feelings for Qu Tan'er to her own advantage, noting his surprising efficiency when it came to fulfilling Tan'er's requests. Qu Xiaotan and Jing Xin followed the address to a quiet, blue-tiled house, where Mo Yihuai was waiting. He had lured her there to interrogate her about the Soul Bead.
Xiaotan feigned innocence, claiming her bed was broken, but became enraged when she realized he was using her to get information about Mo Liancheng. She fiercely declared her heart now belonged to Mo Liancheng and warned Mo Yihuai to never again use Qu Tan'er's name for his own benefit. After decisively severing ties, she departed. Unbeknownst to them, Mo Liancheng had been listening outside, visibly pleased by her loyalty.
He remarked that the "story between the infatuated woman and betrayed man" was finally over. Jing Xin worried that Xiaotan's bluntness would harm Qu Tan'er's relationship with Mo Yihuai. Xiaotan, however, insisted she was protecting Tan'er, explaining that Mo Yihuai's true ambition was the throne, and he would sacrifice Tan'er for it. She urged Jing Xin to convey this truth to her lady. Suddenly, an assassin on a balcony aimed an arrow at Xiaotan.
Mo Yihuai seemingly saved her just as Mo Liancheng arrived. After a tense exchange, Mo Liancheng firmly took his princess back from Mo Yihuai's side. As the assassin fled, an infuriated Mo Yihuai privately ordered his subordinates to bring him Xiaotan's head by that night, or forfeit their own. Later, as Qu Xiaotan was bathing, Mo Liancheng entered with hot water. Calling him a "rogue," she demanded he leave. He playfully retorted that he intended to bathe with his princess.
Their bickering was cut short by sounds of fighting outside. Mo Liancheng swiftly extinguished the candles, wrapped Xiaotan in a cloth, and held her protectively. In his embrace, Xiaotan felt an overwhelming sense of security, deepening her affection for him. The next morning, Mo Liancheng took Qu Xiaotan to an old residence outside the city. Her instincts screamed danger, and soon they were ambushed by assassins.
Mo Liancheng fled with her, leading to a desperate chase that cornered them at a cliff's edge. The assassins, sent by Mo Yihuai, claimed they only wanted the Soul Bead. However, the cloaked man and woman emerged from hiding and, disregarding Mo Yihuai's orders, fired arrows that forced Mo Liancheng and Qu Xiaotan over the cliff. As they plummeted, Xiaotan desperately demanded a divorce certificate, declaring she was too young to be a widow. Mo Liancheng replied that since she wouldn't let go, they would die for love together.
Episode 9 Recap
Following his plan, Mo Liancheng reveals to Qu Xiaotan that he knew about the warm pool beneath the cliff, framing the dangerous fall as a mere "hot spring" experience. Furious, Qu Xiaotan calls him a jerk for the terrifying ordeal. Seeing her injured ankle, Mo Liancheng tends to it. When she presses him on why he saved her, he deflects, claiming she just happened to fall on him.
Discussing the assassination, Xiaotan doubts Mo Yihuai’s direct involvement, reasoning that a true attempt on their lives would have been more effective. She mentions having seen two other figures who seemed separate from the main group of assassins. Mo Liancheng teases her for defending Mo Yihuai, whose name she claims gives her a headache.
Due to her injury, Mo Liancheng carries a protesting Qu Xiaotan back to the manor, telling her to stop trying to run from him, and instructs Jing Xin to prepare her bath. Jing Xin questions the apparent change in Xiaotan's relationship with the prince. Xiaotan dismisses it, blaming the sleepless night on the assassins and Mo Liancheng's frightening "hot spring" prank. When Jing Xin probes about any intimacy, Xiaotan denies it.
Feeling remorseful, Xiaotan worries that Qu Tan'er will be heartbroken to learn Mo Yihuai sent assassins. She asks Jing Xin to apologize to Tan'er on her behalf and express a desire to end their feuding, delighting the maid. To advance his scheme, Mo Liancheng instructs Yu Hao to spread rumors at the imperial hospital that the Eighth Princess is gravely injured and near death, ensuring the news implicates Mo Yihuai.
Later, he enters Xiaotan’s chambers as she is changing, teasing that he is familiar with her body, and asks her to feign a severe illness. When Doctor Gao arrives, he correctly diagnoses only superficial wounds. However, Mo Liancheng threatens the doctor into compliance, forcing him to report to the Emperor and Empress Dowager that the princess is dying.
Amused by his antics, Xiaotan is eager to see the visiting Fourteenth Prince, Mo Xiaoxuan, but a jealous Mo Liancheng forbids it, scolding his younger brother for neglecting his duties. Xiaoxuan reports to Mo Liancheng that he successfully tracked the assassins with the brocade box all the way to the Grand Prince's Palace.
Mo Liancheng reveals he had already anticipated this, stating that Mo Yihuai would inevitably act on the news of the Soul Bead, and now they have the evidence needed. He again instructs Xiaoxuan to publicize the assassination attempt, emphasizing the princess’s critical condition to cast suspicion on Mo Yihuai. Meanwhile, a confused Qu Tan'er awakens, feeling the pain from Xiaotan’s injuries. Jing Xin explains that Xiaotan is safe and conveys her apology, which touches Tan'er.
Jing Xin then recounts the assassination attempt and Mo Liancheng's plan to feign illness to catch the culprit. When pressed, Jing Xin reluctantly reveals that Mo Yihuai is the main suspect. Devastated, Tan'er refuses to believe he could be so cruel, suspecting Mo Liancheng framed him or that he was forced into it by the pressures of the succession battle. She instructs Jing Xin to refuse all visitors.
In the Grand Prince's manor, Mo Yihuai confronts the cloaked figures, angry that the "Soul Bead" was a fake and that Qu Tan'er was endangered against his orders. The cloaked woman dismisses his concerns. To reassert their dominance after the argument, the cloaked man, Liepin, uses a spiritual technique, emitting black smoke from a mark on his forehead to control Mo Yihuai. In the imperial study, the Emperor is enraged by the rumors implicating Mo Yihuai.
Lord Qu Jianglin’s attempt to defend the Grand Prince is interrupted by the arrival of the Empress Dowager. She scolds Lord Qu for defending the prime suspect while his own daughter lies dying. Dismissing him, she confronts the Emperor about his known favoritism toward Mo Yihuai, which she attributes to his resemblance to the late Emperor. The Emperor suggests punishing Qu Tan'er, but the Empress Dowager counters that Xiaoxuan saw the princess take an arrow for Mo Liancheng.
She demands a full investigation into Mo Yihuai, warning that she will not let the matter rest. In the Eighth Prince’s manor, Yu Hao plays his part, telling guards the princess is beyond medical help. Inside, Mo Liancheng puts on a dramatic performance, crying out Tan'er's name in despair. Xiaotan watches, amused by his acting. Their playful teasing turns intimate, and she jokes that her foot injury prevents them from having sex.
He retorts by teasing her about being his first and only woman. Later, Xiaotan tries to playfully scare Mo Liancheng as he enters her courtyard, but he catches her in a hug. He apologizes for putting her in danger, admitting his plan to provoke Mo Yihuai was conceited. Xiaotan reassures him that she understands and does not blame him. Mo Yihuai meets with the cloaked figures again, frustrated that their plan has ruined his reputation.
Liepin becomes aggressive, but the woman intervenes, suggesting a new plan: Mo Yihuai should seek help from his father-in-law, Qu Jianglin, who would surely support him to see his daughter become Empress. Though Mo Yihuai is doubtful, the woman assures him they have already devised a strategy for Lord Qu to execute.
Episode 10 Recap
Following her injury, Mo Liancheng provided Qu Xiaotan with daily medicinal supplements. Finding it too bitter, Qu Xiaotan playfully suggested Mo Liancheng drink it instead. He retorted that if he did, she would have to be responsible for the "side effects," a clear innuendo about wanting her to sleep with him. Unwilling to fall for his trick, Qu Xiaotan drank the medicine, complaining about its bitterness. Meanwhile, at the Qu residence, Qu Jianglin and Mo Yihuai discussed their plans.
Qu Jianglin noted Mo Liancheng's discreet nature made him difficult to attack directly and proposed targeting his weakness: Qu Tan'er. Despite Mo Yihuai's reluctance to use his own kin, Qu Jianglin persuaded him that with the crown as their priority, they must take advantage of her position. Mo Yihuai conceded, agreeing to use Qu Tan'er to prevent Mo Liancheng from becoming Crown Prince.
Later, Qu Tan'er, who was now conscious, questioned Jingxin about the hot springs assassination attempt after overhearing guards discussing it. Jingxin confirmed the official story that it was carried out by former dynasty rebels, not Mo Yihuai, which reassured Qu Tan'er. Soon after, Yun Youlian and another mistress arrived with an "ancient painting." Qu Tan'er quickly recognized it as a coded message from Mo Yihuai.
The painting, signed "Mu Xin"—a secret name derived from both their names—depicted two birds, representing them. A date on the painting indicated a meeting in three days, with a carriage waiting outside the Eighth Prince's palace. Determined to meet him, Qu Tan'er had Jingxin ask Qu Xiaotan to help her get out of the palace. Jingxin relayed the message to Qu Xiaotan.
Though wary of a trap, Qu Xiaotan was convinced by Jingxin’s assurance that "Mu Xin" was a secret code known only to Qu Tan'er and Mo Yihuai. To create an excuse to leave, Qu Xiaotan retrieved a thousand-year ginseng given to her by Mo Xuan'er, which Mo Liancheng had promised would earn her a trip outside once she finished it. For the next three days, Qu Xiaotan diligently consumed the ginseng in every meal.
Upon finishing it, she reminded Mo Liancheng of his promise, and he granted her permission to leave. The Emperor summoned Mo Liancheng, Mo Yihuai, and Mo Xuan'er for a tea ceremony. He presented a two-part tea set: the first cup, "heartbroken" tea, was a poison, while the second, "lovesick" tea, was the antidote. Drinking only one would be fatal. After they all drank the first cup, Mo Yihuai urged Mo Liancheng to drink the second.
Mo Liancheng, however, refused the "lovesick" tea, feigning weakness and declaring he would rather die with a broken heart for his people than suffer from lovesickness for a woman again. The Emperor then revealed the tea was harmless, a test of character, and praised Mo Liancheng for his courage and love for his wife. He then chided Mo Xuan'er for his lack of growth.
In his haste to defend himself, Mo Xuan'er praised Mo Liancheng and pledged to assist him in the future, inadvertently implying Mo Liancheng was the heir. The Emperor was displeased by this premature declaration. Mo Yihuai stoked the fire by suggesting Mo Liancheng had already garnered widespread support, but Mo Liancheng countered with a sharp remark about Mo Yihuai's own vulnerability, alluding to the recent assassination attempt.
The Emperor ended the confrontation, warning Mo Xuan'er to be more mindful of his words. Afterward, while waiting for the Emperor, Mo Yihuai approached Mo Liancheng and subtly implied that Qu Tan'er was in danger. Alarmed by the veiled threat, Mo Liancheng abandoned the imperial summons and immediately dispatched Yu Hao to ride back to the palace and ensure Qu Tan'er's safety, signaling that her well-being was more important to him than the position of Crown Prince.
Instead of meeting Mo Yihuai, Qu Tan'er was taken to the Qu residence. There, Qu Jianglin and Qu Pan'er forced her to kneel in the pouring rain, accusing her of conspiring against their family. Qu Pan'er cruelly revealed that she was merely a pawn in Mo Yihuai's plan to secure the throne and that he would never be with her. Traumatized and heartbroken by this betrayal, Qu Tan'er's consciousness faded as she cried out for Qu Xiaotan.
In that instant, it is Qu Xiaotan who awoke in her place, overwhelmed by an inexplicable pain and the cold rain. As she wondered what to do, Mo Liancheng burst into the courtyard. He rushed to her side, covered her with his robe, and furiously warned Qu Jianglin and Qu Pan'er that he would repay the humiliation inflicted upon his wife tenfold. As Mo Liancheng carried her away, Qu Pan'er smugly remarked to her father that their plan had worked, as Mo Liancheng's actions had secured Mo Yihuai's path to the crown.
Episode 11 Recap
Qu Xiaotan returned to her room soaked, shivering from the cold. Jing Xin quickly took her wet cloak and helped her into bed. Mo Liancheng entered shortly after, rushing to her side with a concerned expression, asking what happened and if she was injured. He immediately instructed Jing Xin to prepare ginger soup. When Jing Xin brought the soup, Mo Liancheng took it to personally feed Qu Xiaotan. She grimaced after a sip, declaring it "dark cuisine" and unbearable.
However, she quickly reconsidered, fearing that if she fell ill, this handsome and attentive man might be snatched away by other women. Steeling herself, she took the bowl and drank it down. Mo Liancheng then asked why she had visited the Qu mansion that day. Qu Xiaotan vaguely explained that an unpleasant old woman had summoned her for a lecture, adding that she was used to her parents not loving her and had always relied on herself.
Mo Liancheng then tenderly told her that as his woman, he would take care of, love, and protect her for the rest of her life. The next morning, while Qu Xiaotan was doing her makeup, Jing Xin teased her about falling in love with the Eighth Prince, which Qu Xiaotan quickly dismissed, reminding her she was the Eighth Princess.
She then questioned Jing Xin about how she had ended up back at the Qu mansion the previous day, considering Qu Tan'er had intended to meet Mo Yihuai. Jing Xin admitted she didn't know the specifics but revealed that Mo Yihuai, the Grand Prince, had already become the Crown Prince, a fact now known throughout the city.
Startled, Qu Xiaotan immediately wondered if this development was connected to the previous night's events and ordered Jing Xin to summon Yu Hao for an explanation, suspecting that Mo Yihuai's intention was not merely to meet Qu Tan'er but served another purpose. Upon Yu Hao's arrival, Qu Xiaotan pressed him to reveal everything that transpired. Yu Hao explained that the Emperor had tested the princes to decide on the Crown Prince, and Mo Liancheng's intelligence had earned him praise.
Later, Mo Yihuai suggested that Qu Xiaotan might be in danger, prompting Mo Liancheng to leave the imperial palace midway through the selection process out of concern for her safety, only to be summoned by the Emperor immediately thereafter. Realizing that Mo Liancheng had sacrificed his chance at the Crown Prince position for her, Qu Xiaotan was overcome with guilt. She dismissed both Jing Xin and Yu Hao, left alone to agonize over her unintentional impact.
Later, while speaking with Mo Liancheng, Qu Xiaotan, feeling frustrated, blurted out that she no longer loved him. Immediately, her consciousness shifted, and Qu Tan'er took over. Qu Tan'er, feeling distressed, sat alone in the stone pavilion, remembering Qu Pan'er's words from the day before, lamenting that Mo Yihuai's affection was fake and he was merely using her. Jing Xin, noticing her lady's sadness, asked what was wrong.
Qu Tan'er declared that Mo Yihuai had been ruthless and she would never see him again, resolving to lead separate lives and harbor no more affection for him. As she uttered these words, her consciousness shifted back to Qu Xiaotan, who, confused, asked Jing Xin why she was there. Qu Xiaotan quickly realized the pattern in their consciousness shifts. She recounted how she had told Mo Liancheng she didn't love him, causing Qu Tan'er to appear.
Then Qu Tan'er declared she had no affection for Mo Yihuai, leading to Qu Xiaotan's return. They deduced that the commonality was telling a lie or speaking against their true thoughts. Qu Xiaotan, who loved Mo Liancheng, had lied by saying she didn't love him. Similarly, Qu Tan'er, who was deeply in love with Mo Yihuai, had lied by saying she had no affection for him.
To verify this theory, they devised a plan: Jing Xin would ask Qu Xiaotan if she loved Mo Liancheng, and Qu Xiaotan dramatically claimed she did not love him at all. This indeed triggered a switch to Qu Tan'er. Jing Xin then informed Qu Tan'er that Qu Xiaotan had discovered the switch mechanism, and they needed to test it further by having Qu Tan'er lie.
When Jing Xin asked Qu Tan'er if she truly had no affection for Mo Yihuai, Qu Tan'er asserted that she had made up her mind and would never see him again. The switch occurred once more, bringing Qu Xiaotan back. They celebrated their breakthrough, confirming that lying was the key to their consciousness shifts. However, controlling the switch proved more difficult than anticipated. Butler Zhou announced that Mo Liancheng would be taking her to the Crown Prince's canonization ceremony.
Qu Xiaotan eagerly wished for Qu Tan'er to attend so she wouldn't continue to mourn alone. Despite Qu Tan'er's profound sadness and unwillingness to see Mo Yihuai, Qu Xiaotan felt she should confront her emotions. Qu Xiaotan attempted to trigger the switch by repeatedly making false statements, such as declaring she didn't love money or that Mo Liancheng was bad in bed. Yet, the switch wouldn't occur.
Mo Liancheng then arrived, finding Qu Xiaotan exasperated with her attempts to control the transfer. Meanwhile, at the imperial palace, Mo Yihuai, now the Crown Prince, convened with Mo Liancheng and the Fourteenth Prince. The three engaged in a tense exchange. Mo Yihuai declared Mo Liancheng and the Fourteenth Prince his right and left hands, intending to work together to build a prosperous Dongyue Empire.
Mo Liancheng responded with thinly veiled sarcasm, acknowledging Mo Yihuai's ambition but also hinting at the unpredictability of who would ultimately ascend the throne. Their tense exchange was cut short as Mo Yihuai suggested it was time to visit the Emperor. Shortly after, the Empress Dowager summoned Qu Xiaotan, her demeanor cold and accusatory. She directly blamed Qu Xiaotan for Mo Liancheng's loss of the Crown Prince position, accusing her of being Mo Yihuai's spy.
Qu Xiaotan vehemently denied the accusations, proclaiming her deep love for Mo Liancheng and asserting her innocence. The Empress Dowager, unconvinced, demanded Qu Xiaotan leave the Eighth Prince's palace. Qu Xiaotan refused, citing her marriage as decreed by the late Emperor. Infuriated, the Empress Dowager ordered her attendants to slap Qu Xiaotan. Just as they were about to strike, Mo Yihuai arrived to pay his respects, subtly trying to intervene on Qu Xiaotan's behalf, suggesting she merely lacked palace etiquette.
The Empress Dowager retorted that they should avoid meeting, fearing it would jeopardize his new position. It was then that Mo Liancheng arrived, kneeling before his Royal Grandmother and pleading for her to cease tormenting Qu Tan'er. He declared that the throne was insignificant compared to her, and vowed to protect his woman from anyone who dared to harm her. With that, he led Qu Xiaotan away, leaving the Empress Dowager fuming.
Unbeknownst to Mo Liancheng, an informant from the Eighth Prince's mansion had already given the Empress Dowager a painting found in the mansion, which she believed to be evidence against Qu Tan'er. She summoned Mo Liancheng, who initially resisted, citing official duties. However, her eunuch insisted it was an urgent matter. Upon his arrival, the Empress Dowager confronted Mo Liancheng, asking if he had indeed gone to the Qu mansion on the day of the Crown Prince designation.
She accused Qu Tan'er of conspiring with Mo Yihuai and Qu Jianglin to set a trap for him. Mo Liancheng defended Qu Tan'er, insisting on her innocence. The Empress Dowager dismissed his words, claiming he was blinded by Qu Tan'er and showed him the painting as proof of Qu Tan'er's collusion with Mo Yihuai and her alleged deceit. She urged him to divorce Qu Tan'er and marry Yun'er, whose family's power could aid him in the battle for the throne.
Mo Liancheng firmly reiterated that Qu Tan'er was the only Princess in his palace. The Empress Dowager stopped him as he attempted to leave, proposing a bet to prove Qu Tan'er's alleged collusion with Mo Yihuai. The next morning, Jing Xin showed Qu Xiaotan a similar painting, explaining it was Mo Yihuai's way of communicating with Qu Tan'er. The inscription on the painting indicated a meeting between Mo Yihuai and Qu Tan'er that afternoon at Maoer Hutong.
Enraged by Mo Yihuai's audacity to still pursue Qu Tan'er, Qu Xiaotan decided to go in Qu Tan'er's stead and confront the "scumbag." As she was about to leave, Mo Liancheng appeared, inquiring about her destination. Qu Xiaotan, feigning boredom and a desire to shop for cosmetics, resisted his offer to accompany her. She promised to return that night, ultimately convincing him to let her go alone.
Upon arriving at Maoer Hutong, Qu Xiaotan fumed over Mo Yihuai's tardiness, questioning his sincerity and lamenting Qu Tan'er's supposed blindness to his true nature. Suddenly, Mo Liancheng appeared. Stunned, Qu Xiaotan asked why he was there. Mo Liancheng retorted, asking why he shouldn't be, sarcastically remarking that he was interrupting her private meeting with the Grand Prince. Qu Xiaotan desperately tried to explain that she was there on behalf of someone else, implying Qu Tan'er.
However, Mo Liancheng accused her of being a master manipulator, claiming she had successfully fooled him and that her appearance at the Qu mansion on the day of the designation was an elaborate act to gain his sympathy. He held up the painting, accusing her, as Qu Tan'er, of using his feelings to secure the Crown Prince position for Mo Yihuai. Qu Xiaotan insisted it was a misunderstanding and that the painting was not hers.
Mo Liancheng, refusing to believe her, declared he would not trust her anymore and that she no longer needed to return to the Eighth Prince's palace, offering her a divorce letter. In a desperate attempt to make him understand, Qu Xiaotan asked if he would still love her if she were not Qu Tan'er. When he pressed her to speak, she blurted out the truth: she was not the real Qu Tan'er but shared a body with her.
She acknowledged it might sound unbelievable but insisted it was true, and that she was there for Qu Tan'er. Mo Liancheng scoffed, calling her explanation childish and still addressing her as Qu Tan'er, dismissing her claims as mere acting. With tears in her eyes, Qu Xiaotan pleaded that she could prove it, as a heavy rain began to fall, leaving her standing alone, weeping in the downpour.
Episode 12 Recap
Plagued by Mo Liancheng's growing mistrust, Qu Xiaotan sat alone in her chambers, refusing to eat for days. She despaired, feeling abandoned by the only man she believed she could rely on in this unfamiliar world. The misunderstanding had been amplified when Qu Tan'er, trying to prove the existence of two souls, deliberately lied that she never loved Mo Liancheng in a failed attempt to make Xiaotan reappear. This desperate act only hardened Mo Liancheng's heart.
Jing Xin tried to coax Xiaotan to eat, but Xiaotan had no appetite. She understood that the Grand Prince and the Qu family had set a trap for Mo Liancheng using her as a weakness, but she knew no one would believe her incredible explanation of two people sharing one body. Seeking solace, Qu Xiaotan ventured into the garden alone. As she paused by a lakeside pavilion, she was suddenly pushed into the water from behind.
Later that night, Jing Xin searched for her, discovering her cloak floating on the lake's surface. Panicked, Jing Xin screamed for help, and servants pulled an unresponsive Qu Xiaotan from the water. Mo Liancheng, upon hearing the news, rushed to her side, frantically calling her name. He commanded Yu Hao to gather every imperial doctor in Dongyue. Inside her room, Mo Liancheng raged as one imperial doctor after another declared Qu Tan'er beyond saving.
In his desperation, he threatened to bury them all with her if they failed. The last doctor confirmed that the Eighth Princess had already stopped breathing when rescued. Just as all hope seemed lost, a blue-robed, white-haired old man known as the Spirit Master swiftly entered the room. The eccentric old man admonished Mo Liancheng for wasting precious time and revealed he could save the princess, but only if Mo Liancheng agreed to a "Life Bond."
He explained this ancient ritual would spiritually connect their lives: if one died, the other would perish as well. Unwavering, Mo Liancheng agreed, stating he would rather die than live without her. The Spirit Master then initiated the ritual, guiding spiritual energy between them. As it concluded, Mo Liancheng collapsed from weakness, while the Spirit Master looked at the still Qu Xiaotan with surprise.
Upon re-examination, the imperial physicians found Qu Xiaotan's pulse stable and declared her miraculously returned to life. Mo Liancheng then pressed the Spirit Master for an explanation of the two personalities. The Spirit Master confirmed that two distinct consciousnesses resided within the princess's body: the original Qu Tan'er and another that had entered by chance, a phenomenon he had never witnessed before. Finally understanding, Mo Liancheng believed Qu Xiaotan's words.
Jing Xin further explained that Xiaotan had sought to confront the Crown Prince, Mo Yihuai, to avenge Qu Tan'er's past suffering, not realizing she was walking into a trap set by Mo Liancheng to test her loyalty. Jing Xin also revealed Xiaotan's desperate search for an ancient bed, which she believed could help her return to her own world. As Mo Liancheng reflected on their journey, his heart ached with regret.
Just then, Yu Hao reported that the perpetrator had been found. In the study, a maid named Yi Xiangnong knelt in confession. Driven by jealousy over Mo Liancheng's affection for the princess, she admitted to pushing Qu Xiaotan into the lake. However, she then implicated the Crown Prince, Mo Yihuai, claiming he had ordered the murder because the princess was no longer useful to him. Enraged, Mo Liancheng ordered Yu Hao to dispose of the maid.
Soon after, Mo Yihuai arrived, taunting Mo Liancheng for being unable to protect his own wife. Mo Liancheng later confided in his brother, Jingxuan, that he didn't believe the Crown Prince was behind it, suspecting the maid had framed him to protect the true culprit—likely a jealous woman within the palace. Mo Liancheng remained steadfastly by Qu Xiaotan's bedside, personally preparing her favorite spicy dishes and coaxing her to wake up.
At last, Qu Xiaotan stirred, softly calling out "Chengcheng," her affectionate nickname for him. She woke up and frantically explained that her lie about not loving him was a desperate attempt to prove the existence of the two consciousnesses. Mo Liancheng gently silenced her, assuring her that he now believed her completely. When she worried that she had cost him the position of Crown Prince, he reassured her he would reclaim what was rightfully his.
At that moment, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess were announced. Mo Liancheng decisively declared that he would not allow Qu Tan'er to appear again, stating firmly that Qu Xiaotan was completely his.
Episode 13 Recap
Following Mo Xiaotan's recovery, the Crown Prince, Mo Yihuai, accompanied by the Crown Princess, pays a visit to Mo Liancheng’s estate. Mo Liancheng questions the purpose of their visit, and Mo Yihuai claims fraternal concern. However, Mo Liancheng retorts that Mo Yihuai’s true concern lies with someone else, prompting Mo Yihuai to mention Qu Tan'er’s bedridden state. Mo Liancheng provocatively asks if Mo Yihuai believes Qu Tan'er’s injury was his doing, asserting his ability to protect his own woman.
Mo Yihuai attempts to assert his authority as the new Crown Prince, but Mo Liancheng dismisses him, warning him to pay attention to his own precarious position. When the Crown Princess intervenes, Mo Liancheng implies Mo Yihuai has become a coward since his marriage before coolly dismissing them. Later, Mo Liancheng finds the gentle Qu Tan'er embroidering. He apologizes for not letting her see Mo Yihuai during his visit.
Qu Tan'er replies that it is no longer proper for her to meet the Crown Prince, acknowledging that he is a changed man consumed by ambition. Mo Liancheng agrees, expressing gratitude for Qu Xiaotan, whose unconventional personality makes their difficult life more bearable. Qu Tan'er confesses that her heart died when Mo Yihuai abandoned her and she only continues on because of Qu Xiaotan.
She concludes that one cannot force destiny and begins to play a melancholic tune on the guzheng. Deep within a forest, cloaked figures report to their master that Liu Qianshui, the white-haired old man, has been located in Dongyue. They reveal he miraculously saved a girl named Qu Tan'er, leading the master to deduce she is the person he seeks.
He orders his subordinates to investigate her and kill her if their suspicions are confirmed, stating that a seal is weakening and his success is imminent. Meanwhile, an edict from the Empress Dowager announces that Princess Zhao Qingyun will be married to Mo Liancheng as his side concubine within the month. Shortly after, the Fourteenth Prince, Xiaoxuan, bursts into Qu Tan'er’s room. An imperial doctor first confirms Qu Tan'er's stable recovery.
Once they are alone, Xiaoxuan reveals the marriage news, explaining that his brother had no choice but to wed Zhao Qingyun to secure the political support of her father, the Anle Marquis. Xiaoxuan laments that women are merely tools for men in their fight for power. Qu Tan'er agrees, sadly stating that the person Mo Liancheng loves isn't her. Xiaoxuan insists his brother treats her uniquely.
The commotion from the wedding preparations awakens Qu Xiaotan, who learns from Jing Xin about Zhao Qingyun’s impending marriage. Enraged, she storms to Mo Liancheng’s study, calling him a jerk and accusing him of bringing a mistress into their home. He asks if she is jealous, which she denies, but insists that if he truly loves only her, he cannot marry another woman.
As she continues her tirade, Mo Liancheng has her escorted back to her room, but not before she warns him that he will never see her again if he goes through with the marriage. In her room, Jing Xin reminds Qu Xiaotan that Liu Qianshui, the old man who saved her, left an address. Intrigued about her recovery and his connection to her time travel, Qu Xiaotan decides to visit him immediately.
At his dwelling, she bluntly asks if he is from the modern world and how she can return. The old man responds with cryptic philosophical statements before revealing that to return, she must obtain the Soul Bead, a powerful treasure he predicts will appear soon. He gifts her a Soul Wandering Flute and a music score, explaining its power will grow with her own and may help her find her way home.
Later, a troubled Qu Xiaotan confides in Jing Xin about the pain of love. She attempts to play the flute, surprised that she can play the unfamiliar notes naturally as the instrument emits a faint spiritual light. Still vexed by the marriage, she stops playing. That night, she curses Mo Liancheng, only to be startled by his sudden appearance in her room.
Qu Xiaotan confronts Mo Liancheng for being in her room with a bridal veil instead of at his own wedding. He explains the veil is for her, as he intends to hold a wedding just for them, promising a lifetime together. He reveals that Xiaoxuan performed the official ceremony in his place. Qu Xiaotan then demands to know who he truly loves: the gentle Qu Tan'er or her own careless self. Mo Liancheng states unequivocally, "I only want you."
At that moment, Qu Xiaotan feels dizzy and her personality switches to Qu Tan'er, who demands he keep his distance. As Qu Xiaotan's personality re-emerges, Mo Liancheng tells her she will never escape him, vowing to spend his entire life loving and protecting the one and only Qu Xiaotan. He asks her to stay with him forever, but she remains doubtful.
Episode 14 Recap
On the night of Zhao Qingyun's wedding, Mo Liancheng chose to spend it with Qu Xiaotan in her room. He reaffirmed his love and commitment to her, explaining that men in his world only marry one woman for life, unlike the chaotic polygamous marriages of her time. He promised to marry her every year and have only her in his heart.
Meanwhile, in a pavilion, Xiaotan was looking at a blank music sheet when Jing Xin approached with a swollen, slapped face. Jing Xin explained that Xuejuan, Zhao Qingyun's servant, had forcibly taken her peach blossom soup, broken a valuable purple-green cloud vase—a relic from the Former Emperor gifted by the Empress Dowager—and then framed and slapped her. Enraged, Qu Xiaotan vowed revenge.
Just then, Zhao Qingyun arrived, accusing Jing Xin of disrespecting the Empress Dowager and the Former Emperor by breaking the vase and demanding severe punishment. Xiaotan defiantly shielded Jing Xin, but the confrontation was cut short by Mo Liancheng's arrival. He immediately scolded Zhao Qingyun for causing trouble, ordering her to apologize and serve tea to Jing Xin. After an insincere apology, Mo Liancheng warned Zhao Qingyun this was a minor punishment and banished her from the Snow Courtyard.
Furious, Zhao Qingyun went to the Empress Dowager's palace, crying and falsely accusing Qu Xiaotan of reckless and evil behavior that had deluded Mo Liancheng, leading to her servant breaking the precious vase. The Empress Dowager, already displeased with Qu Tan'er's frivolous manner, was outraged and vowed to discipline her. Later, Qu Pan'er met with Zhao Qingyun, appearing sympathetic and fueling her resentment. Zhao Qingyun vented her hatred, recounting how Tan'er had frequently tried to seduce Crown Prince Mo Yihuai.
Pan'er portrayed Tan'er as a manipulative concubine's daughter and slyly mentioned that Mo Liancheng had missed being named Crown Prince because he secretly went to see Tan'er on that important day. Convinced Tan'er could destroy the nation, Zhao Qingyun resolved to eliminate her. Pan'er reassured her that Mo Liancheng was only temporarily confused and would ultimately rely on the Zhao family's power.
Later, Pan'er revealed her true intentions to her mother: to use Qu Tan'er as bait to trap Mo Liancheng, who was the greatest obstacle to Mo Yihuai's ascension to the throne. To execute the scheme, Zhao Qingyun first sent land leases and a valuable night pearl to Qu Xiaotan, feigning a desire to reconcile. Delighted by the gifts, Xiaotan let her guard down.
After declining several invitations, Xiaotan finally accepted one to the Changyin Pavilion to enjoy a live music performance. She returned the expensive gifts, not wanting to be indebted to Zhao Qingyun. Unbeknownst to Xiaotan, this set a deadly trap in motion. Zhao Qingyun planned an assassination at the pavilion, telling Pan'er she had chosen a day when Mo Liancheng would be busy meeting Minister Wuliang Marquis. However, Pan'er was secretly plotting a double-cross.
Her plan was to ensure Mo Liancheng learned of the danger, rushed to the pavilion, and was then killed by her own assassins, who would be disguised as Zhao Qingyun's men, thereby framing Zhao Qingyun for the entire tragedy. At the Changyin Pavilion, as Qu Xiaotan enjoyed the music, assassins suddenly attacked. Mo Liancheng, having received a warning note, appeared unexpectedly and swiftly dispatched several attackers. However, a remaining assassin on a balcony aimed an arrow at Tan'er.
Mo Liancheng threw his sword to deflect the first shot, but the assassin quickly fired another. With no other option, Mo Liancheng shielded Qu Tan'er with his own body, taking the arrow directly to his chest. As he collapsed, Yu Hao arrived with royal guards, driving off the remaining attackers. Overwhelmed with grief, Xiaotan begged Mo Liancheng to live, reminding him of his promise to protect her.
Gravely wounded, he affirmed his commitment before losing consciousness, while a shocked Zhao Qingyun fled the scene. Back at the palace, a distraught Qu Xiaotan watched over the gravely injured Mo Liancheng. Imperial physicians declared the wound too severe, stating his survival was up to fate. Mo Jingxuan, Liancheng's brother, promised to find a skilled healer, which made Xiaotan remember the "old monster" who had once saved her life. Jing Xin was immediately dispatched to find him.
Meanwhile, an investigation by Mo Jingxuan and Yu Hao found no useful witnesses or unique weapons, indicating a well-planned cover-up. When the old monster finally arrived, he initially refused to help, stating he first needed to sever the "Life Bond" between Xiaotan and Liancheng to prevent her from dying if he succumbed. Xiaotan vehemently refused, threatening suicide if Mo Liancheng died, which forced the old monster to relent.
He noted Liancheng's unusual constitution required more "anima" than normal to sustain life, a resource scarce in Dongyue. As he prepared to leave, Crown Prince Mo Yihuai arrived, prompting Xiaotan to consider letting her other personality, Tan'er, handle the tense encounter.
Episode 15 Recap
Jing Xin, following Qu Xiaotan's instructions, brought Qu Tan'er to meet with Mo Yihuai, as Xiaotan wanted Tan'er to clarify things with him in person, knowing that Mo Liancheng was still unconscious and therefore wouldn't be jealous. Mo Yihuai questioned Tan'er's distant attitude, asserting his innocence in the assassination attempt and assuring her that he would never endanger her. He proposed remarrying as soon as possible, promising a life free from suffering.
Tan'er responded with bitter laughter, criticizing his coldness and cruelty, and dismissing his claims that his actions were for their future. She declared she was finished listening to his lies and urged him to stop deceiving himself. She told him that if he were truly acting for himself, he should keep her out of it.
Tan'er then ended their relationship, stating she was no longer the same person and that her heart belonged entirely to Mo Liancheng, vowing to follow him in death if he died. Meanwhile, the Fourteenth Prince and Yu Hao investigated Changyin Pavilion for clues about the assassination attempt, finding nothing at first. Yu Hao then noticed the owner of Changyin Pavilion hiding. Confronted, the owner initially denied seeing anything, claiming he was backstage.
However, the Fourteenth Prince exposed his lie when the owner mentioned "two Princesses" being injured, despite only one being publicly reported. Under pressure, the owner admitted to overhearing the Princesses' conversation. Qu Xiaotan considered Zhao Qingyun as the mastermind behind the attack. However, she was troubled by Mo Liancheng being hit by an arrow, as she was unfamiliar with the complex relationships in Dongyue.
Yu Hao also voiced his doubts, pointing out that while Zhao Qingyun had a feud with Xiaotan and knew her history with the Crown Prince, she also deeply loved Mo Liancheng and wouldn't intentionally harm him. Xiaotan agreed, concluding that while Zhao Qingyun was involved, the Crown Prince Mo Yihuai was not, leaving the identity of the person who targeted Mo Liancheng a mystery. Troubled, Xiaotan then intentionally brought out Qu Tan'er.
The Fourteenth Prince recounted the events of the assassination night. Tan'er, using her intellect, quickly noticed discrepancies: the assassins had similar attire but different targets. She deduced that there were two distinct groups of attackers, suggesting that someone deliberately wanted to frame Zhao Qingyun for targeting Mo Liancheng. Tan'er considered the Empress Dowager and Anle Marquis as potential influencers of Zhao Qingyun but dismissed them, as neither would risk Mo Liancheng or frame Zhao Qingyun.
Suddenly, Tan'er blurted out "Qu Pan'er!" This abrupt shift and swift deduction, along with Xiaotan and Tan'er's alternating personalities, left the Fourteenth Prince bewildered. Yu Hao covered for the Princess, explaining that she was likely disoriented from grief. They concluded that Qu Pan'er and her mother, the Grand Lady, were the most suspicious masterminds. To uncover the truth, they decided to start with Zhao Qingyun.
Qu Xiaotan confronted Zhao Qingyun, presenting her with a "signed testimony" from a prisoner and urging her to confess. Zhao Qingyun vehemently denied it, but Xiaotan manipulated her by suggesting what Mo Liancheng would think upon seeing such evidence when he awoke, and threatening that he would hate her and expel her from the palace.
Fearing Mo Liancheng's rejection, Zhao Qingyun confessed to wanting to get rid of Xiaotan and admitted she had been incited by Qu Pan'er and the Grand Lady. She became convinced it was a trap set by them. Xiaotan then asked Jing Xin to relay a question to Tan'er: if she had any incriminating information about the Grand Lady and Qu Pan'er.
Tan'er recalled that the Grand Lady had once had an affair with a guard in the Qu mansion, but she had kept it secret due to her own difficult situation at the time. Xiaotan immediately asked for the guard's description. Tan'er described him as having "broad shoulders and back" and "a huge black mole with hair between his eyebrows." Xiaotan instantly recognized these distinct features, realizing they perfectly matched the assassin who had shot Mo Liancheng.
As Xiaotan watched over the unconscious Mo Liancheng, Jing Xin rushed in with urgent news: the Empress Dowager was arriving. The Empress Dowager entered, immediately accusing Xiaotan of being responsible for Mo Liancheng's injuries and declaring her guilty. She then ordered Xiaotan's Princess title to be abolished and her immediate expulsion from the palace. Just as the Empress Dowager was about to give the order, Mo Liancheng suddenly awoke and loudly commanded them to stop.
He then fiercely warned that anyone who dared to touch Tan'er would be torn apart. Startled, the Empress Dowager quickly wished Mo Liancheng a good recovery and hastily returned to the Imperial Palace. With the Empress Dowager gone, Xiaotan affectionately tended to Mo Liancheng.
He revealed that he had heard everything she said while he was in a coma, including her confessions about not wanting to return to her world without him and her desire to take him with her if she did. Mo Liancheng quickly recovered from his arrow wound. A few days later, he and Qu Xiaotan went straight to the Qu mansion. Upon their arrival, Mo Liancheng immediately questioned the Grand Lady's actions.
The Grand Lady tried to claim she was framed, but Mo Liancheng presented a testimony, making it clear the situation was grave. Qu Tan'er, in Xiaotan's body, urged her birth mother, the Grand Lady, to confess for the sake of their family. The Grand Lady confessed to being solely responsible for the assassination attempt, after Mo Liancheng threatened further investigation that could implicate her husband, Lord Qu.
Lord Qu, terrified, begged Mo Liancheng for mercy, asking him to punish the Grand Lady severely but spare the rest of the family. Mo Liancheng reminded him that assassinating a Prince was a crime punishable by the death penalty for the entire family. Tan'er then intervened, offering to let the matter go for her mother's sake. Mo Liancheng agreed, but warned Lord Qu to behave himself, stating that Lord Qu's life was still in his hands.
Mo Liancheng then produced the guard, revealing the Grand Lady's long-held secret affair. Lord Qu, enraged by the adultery, declared he would discard his wife. Qu Pan'er arrived, attempting to defend her mother and angrily confronted Xiaotan. Seeing the escalating chaos and fearing for her daughter's safety, the Grand Lady confessed to all her sins – the attempted assassination of a Prince and her adultery with the guard.
She begged Mo Liancheng to spare her family and then, in a desperate act of self-sacrifice, she took her own life. With the Grand Lady's death, Mo Liancheng decided to close the investigation, instructing Lord Qu to plan the funeral. Qu Pan'er glared menacingly at Qu Xiaotan's retreating figure.
Episode 16 Recap
Following his recovery, Mo Liancheng, enraged by the assassination attempt on Qu Xiaotan, confronted Princess Qingyun, warning her that he would make anyone who dared to harm his wife suffer immensely. Distraught by his disdain, Princess Qingyun sought out the Empress Dowager, begging for her intervention. The Empress Dowager reminded Qingyun that Mo Liancheng had recently contradicted her for the first time in his life over Qu Xiaotan, making her own position difficult.
She advised Qingyun to reconcile with Qu Xiaotan, but Qingyun lamented that Mo Liancheng wouldn't even allow her to apologize. The Empress Dowager eventually agreed to host a gathering to ease tensions, urging Qingyun to cease causing trouble. Unbeknownst to them, the Empress Dowager was the true orchestrator of events. She had intentionally revealed Qingyun's hatred for Qu Xiaotan to Qu Pan'er, anticipating that Pan'er would instigate Qingyun to act.
Her ultimate objective was to eliminate Qu Xiaotan and frame Qu Pan'er for assassinating a prince, thereby dismantling the Qu family and aiding Mo Liancheng's bid for the throne. Although she had secretly sent someone to protect Mo Liancheng during the attack, he still sustained injuries, much to her frustration that Qu Xiaotan remained unharmed.
Believing Qu Pan'er's hatred for Qu Xiaotan after her mother's death would drive her to act alone, the Empress Dowager hosted a golden autumn wine party for the princes and their consorts. At the party, the Empress Dowager directed Princess Qingyun to sit beside Mo Liancheng and encouraged her to learn from Qu Xiaotan's attentive care. Meanwhile, Qu Pan'er, consumed by resentment, orchestrated a plot.
She deliberately collided with a maid, and then, feigning a twisted ankle herself, instructed the maid to put down the wine pot and fetch medicine. While the maid was distracted, Pan'er poisoned the wine. The unsuspecting maid later returned and poured the tainted wine for Qu Xiaotan. Qu Pan'er then approached Qu Xiaotan and Mo Liancheng, feigning a desire for reconciliation and offering a toast with the poisoned wine.
Sensing malicious intent, Qu Xiaotan and Mo Liancheng declined, with Xiaotan feigning illness. Seeing an opportunity to earn Mo Liancheng's favor, Princess Qingyun stepped forward and drank the wine meant for Qu Xiaotan, unaware it was poisoned. Despite Qu Pan'er's panicked attempt to stop her, it was too late. Qingyun succumbed to the poison and died. An attendant immediately pointed out that Qingyun had drunk the wine intended for Qu Xiaotan.
The enraged Empress Dowager initially blamed Qu Xiaotan, but Mo Liancheng defended her, noting she never touched the cup. Suspicion shifted to the maid, who recounted how Qu Pan'er had feigned an injury and made her leave the wine pot unattended. Mo Liancheng suggested a search. While nothing was found on the maid, a bottle of the same poison was discovered on Qu Pan'er. Faced with irrefutable evidence, the Empress Dowager ordered her arrest.
Qu Jianglin pleaded with Mo Yihuai to intercede for his wife, but Mo Yihuai coldly refused, stating Qu Pan'er's repeated attempts to kill Qu Xiaotan meant she was no longer his wife in his heart. Later that night, Qu Jianglin begged Qu Xiaotan to save Qu Pan'er, offering his family heirloom, the Soul Bead, in exchange. Recalling that the Soul Bead might be the key to her return home, Xiaotan agreed to consider it.
Meanwhile, in the imperial prison, the Empress Dowager confronted Qu Pan'er, who admitted the poison was for Qu Xiaotan. The Empress Dowager revealed her knowledge of Pan'er's schemes, including instigating Qingyun and her secret protection of Mo Liancheng during the previous attack. Mo Liancheng then arrived, surprisingly asking for leniency for Qu Pan'er.
He argued that saving her would be a strategic victory; Qu Jianglin, having been rejected by Mo Yihuai, would offer the Qu family's unwavering loyalty and the coveted Soul Bead. Recognizing the value of his proposal, the Empress Dowager agreed not to execute Qu Pan'er for now. At the Qu mansion, Qu Jianglin honored his promise, giving the Soul Bead to Mo Liancheng.
He explained that its seal could only be broken by a ritual using the blood of a Qu descendant as an activator. As the ritual was performed, a vibrant purple light emanated from the newly unsealed Soul Bead.
Episode 17 Recap
The wooden chest, containing the Soul Bead, opens with Qu Jianglin's blood, emitting a strong purple light. Inside, the Soul Bead is encased in a jade box. Qu Jianglin explains that the Soul Bead is an heirloom of the Qu family, and the jade box has a seal that only he can touch, having sealed it after Qu Tan'er was badly hurt trying to touch it as a child.
Disheartened by Qu Pan'er's actions, he states he now only wishes to protect his family and distance himself from the struggle for the throne. He reveals that the Crown Prince, Mo Yihuai, was previously obsessed with obtaining the Soul Bead. Mo Liancheng observes that his late grandfather, the Emperor's Father, had returned the Soul Bead to the Qu family and arranged for Qu Tan'er's marriage to him, suggesting a hidden purpose.
Soon after, a released Qu Pan'er storms into Mo Liancheng's residence, demanding the Soul Bead from her father and asserting it belongs to her as the Qu family's firstborn. Both Qu Pan'er and Qu Xiaotan rush to touch the jade box. Upon contact, Qu Pan'er is violently repelled and falls unconscious, while Qu Xiaotan remains unharmed, though she comments on the jade's coldness. A distressed Qu Jianglin departs with his unconscious daughter.
Afterward, Mo Liancheng questions why Qu Xiaotan could touch the jade box when Qu Tan'er couldn't. Acknowledging her unique nature, Qu Xiaotan reminds him she is not from this world. Mo Liancheng speculates that his grandfather might have entrusted the Soul Bead to the Qu family to await someone like Qu Xiaotan, who is connected to it. In a dark forest, Life Hunter and Soul Breaker are punished by their Master for failing to acquire the Soul Bead.
Soul Breaker then reveals that Qu Xiaotan can touch the bead. Their Master, overjoyed, declares he has finally found the Soul Bead's true master and orders them to kill her. Acknowledging that Mo Liancheng and Liu Qianshui protect her, the Master commands them to involve Mo Yihuai. However, when the assassins approach Mo Yihuai, he furiously rejects the idea of harming Qu Tan'er.
Expressing deep regret for his past actions, he blames them for their instigation and terminates their alliance, threatening severe consequences if they ever harm her. In the study, Qu Xiaotan attempts to open the jade box, but Mo Liancheng warns her of potential danger. She impulsively reveals that Liu Qianshui told her the Soul Bead could help her return to her world. Hearing this, Mo Liancheng embraces her tightly, terrified she might vanish.
He decides to keep the Soul Bead for her safety, and she agrees. Later, they seek out Liu Qianshui and ask why Qu Xiaotan has been unable to summon Qu Tan'er. Liu Qianshui explains that the Soul Bead is enhancing Qu Xiaotan's power while weakening Qu Tan'er, making it increasingly difficult for the latter to appear. He agrees to disclose the Soul Bead's secrets only after Qu Xiaotan masters the "soul wandering flute."
As they depart, Liu Qianshui muses to himself that he has been waiting for them and the Soul Bead for a hundred years. While traveling by sedan, Mo Liancheng and Qu Xiaotan are ambushed by Life Hunter and Soul Breaker. Mo Liancheng fights fiercely but is overwhelmed. Just as a fatal blow is about to strike Qu Xiaotan, Mo Yihuai intervenes, saving her and forcing the assassins to retreat.
He coldly tells Mo Liancheng his actions were not for his sake. Later, Life Hunter and Soul Breaker corner Mo Yihuai in his palace. On their Master's command, they forcibly transfer their Master's martial arts into him, allowing the Master to control him. The Master then convinces the now-powerful Mo Yihuai to resume their alliance, proposing a new, covert plan to seize the Soul Bead. Qu Xiaotan visits Qu Pan'er, hoping to help Qu Tan'er reconcile with her sister.
Qu Pan'er expresses deep resentment, accusing Qu Tan'er of stealing their father's favor and Mo Yihuai's love. She confesses she hates her sister enough to kill her. Just as Qu Pan'er begins to reveal the true culprit behind a past plot against Qu Tan'er, she is killed by an assassin's poison dart. A distraught Qu Xiaotan orders Yu Hao to find the murderer.
Meanwhile, the Empress Dowager receives a report from her servant, confirming that she orchestrated the assassination to silence the insubordinate and loose-tongued Qu Pan'er. Now under his Master's influence, Mo Yihuai issues a false decree to summon the Empress Dowager to the Emperor's study. There, he theatrically threatens suicide unless the Emperor strips him of his title and makes Mo Liancheng the Crown Prince.
The Emperor tearfully refuses, revealing a grave secret from the late Emperor's Father: Mo Liancheng is fated to die before the age of twenty-five and thus cannot inherit the throne. The Empress Dowager is devastated. Seizing the moment, a seemingly repentant Mo Yihuai approaches her, feigning distress over Mo Liancheng's fate and claiming the Soul Bead can extend his life. He implies that this requires Qu Xiaotan's death, which would allow the bead to choose a new master.
Episode 18 Recap
Empress Dowager was manipulated by Mo Yihuai, who sought to use her for his own schemes. Mo Yihuai informed her about the Soul Bead, claiming this powerful artifact, once possessed by the Grand Emperor, could extend a person's lifespan. He falsely stated that while the Soul Bead was currently with Mo Liancheng, it recognized Qu Xiaotan as its true master.
He then spun a tale that only upon Qu Xiaotan's death would the Soul Bead transfer its allegiance, offering Mo Liancheng a chance at a longer life. Mo Yihuai feigned deep concern for Mo Liancheng, despite their political differences, asserting it was unbearable to watch his brother die. Believing Mo Yihuai, Empress Dowager summoned Qu Xiaotan. After some initial pleasantries, she tearfully revealed that Mo Liancheng was destined to die at the age of twenty-five.
Qu Xiaotan was stunned, refusing to believe it, thinking Empress Dowager was setting a trap or cruelly cursing Mo Liancheng. Empress Dowager insisted it was true, claiming the Grand Emperor had secretly confided this prophecy to the current Emperor. She then explained that the Soul Bead was the only way to save Mo Liancheng, but it would only choose a new master if its current one died.
She gave Qu Xiaotan three days to decide, ominously mentioning she would prepare "farewell wine" if Qu Xiaotan chose to sacrifice herself. Heartbroken and distraught, Qu Xiaotan left the palace, consumed by grief. Desperate for answers, she immediately went to kneel outside the Emperor's palace. Later that evening, Qu Xiaotan had no appetite during dinner with Mo Liancheng. She seemed preoccupied, asking about his recent health and whether his old wounds had fully healed.
Mo Liancheng, noticing her unusual behavior, playfully suggested that he might need to "perform well" that night, implying intimacy. Qu Xiaotan quickly rejected the notion, telling him he should "sleep alone" from then on for his health. She then embraced him tightly, confessing her sudden fear of losing him, while Mo Liancheng tried to comfort her. Driven by desperation, Qu Xiaotan sought out Liu Qianshui in a secluded mountain area.
She first inquired if the Soul Bead could truly extend lifespan and if it only had one master, to which Liu Qianshui confirmed the latter and vaguely hinted that she might be its master. She then urgently asked him to terminate the Life Bond between her and Mo Liancheng. Liu Qianshui was surprised, recalling her previous steadfast refusal to break the bond. He became suspicious of her sudden change of heart. Despite his suspicions, Qu Xiaotan pressed him to proceed.
Liu Qianshui, sensing her distress, cleverly feigned the ritual and told her it was done. Qu Xiaotan, astonished by the apparent ease, was relieved. She implored him not to tell Mo Liancheng about their meeting. Realizing her unusual secrecy, Liu Qianshui had intentionally not truly broken the Life Bond, correctly guessing that she was hiding something related to Mo Liancheng. Meanwhile, Yu Hao reported to Mo Liancheng that Qu Xiaotan had been seen begging Liu Qianshui for something.
Mo Liancheng, already noticing Qu Xiaotan's strange behavior since her visit to Empress Dowager and her hurried trip to the Emperor's palace, decided to confront Liu Qianshui. Just as he prepared to leave with Yu Hao, Liu Qianshui unexpectedly appeared before them. Liu Qianshui explained that Qu Xiaotan had asked him to terminate the Life Bond, something she had always refused before.
He also revealed his suspicion that she was keeping something from him, which was why he had merely performed a trick instead of truly severing the bond. He then left, entrusting Mo Liancheng to uncover the truth. Mo Liancheng immediately went to see the Emperor, connecting Qu Xiaotan's odd actions to the possibility of the Emperor's involvement. Mo Liancheng directly asked the Emperor why Qu Xiaotan had visited him.
The Emperor initially evaded, but Mo Liancheng pressed on, asking if her visit related to his own destiny. The Emperor admitted that Mo Liancheng's suspicions were correct. He then revealed a hidden prophecy left by the Grand Emperor, part of which was carved on Mo Liancheng's childhood bed. The prophecy stated that Mo Liancheng would live only to the age of twenty-five. The Emperor confirmed that Qu Xiaotan had indeed learned of this prophecy.
Mo Liancheng, holding back tears, asserted that having Qu Xiaotan was enough for him, but ominously warned that he would "become a devil" if anything were to happen to her. At the same time, Qu Tan'er had tracked Mo Yihuai to the west of the city. She secretly listened as Mo Yihuai spoke with an unknown accomplice, revealing his true ruthless nature.
Mo Yihuai declared that Qu Tan'er was merely a "pawn" in his ambitions and that he had never truly loved her, stating her life or death was inconsequential to him. Heartbroken by this betrayal, Qu Tan'er fled back to the Eighth Prince's mansion. She reflected on how Mo Yihuai had become a demon and how her love for him had been a lie. With nothing left to care about, she resolved to sacrifice herself if it meant saving Mo Liancheng.
She spoke to her other self, Qu Xiaotan, urging her not to hesitate and assuring her that she owed Qu Tan'er nothing, expressing her happiness during their shared time. Mo Liancheng, standing outside the room, overheard Qu Tan'er's poignant words, his face etched with sorrow and helplessness. Later, in Empress Dowager's private chambers, a maid presented Qu Xiaotan with a cup of poisoned wine. Empress Dowager assured Qu Xiaotan the concoction was fast-acting and painless.
Qu Xiaotan, with a final, bittersweet thought directed at Mo Liancheng, raised the cup. Just as she was about to drink, Mo Liancheng burst in, knocking the wine from her hand and pulling her into a protective embrace. The Emperor then arrived, accompanied by guards who had apprehended one of Empress Dowager's long-serving servants. The Emperor confronted his mother, accusing her of attempting to poison Qu Xiaotan and violating national law.
Empress Dowager claimed she acted out of desperation to save Mo Liancheng. The Emperor countered by revealing the true prophecy from the Grand Emperor: the Soul Bead only admits one master and cannot be transferred. Empress Dowager was shocked, admitting that Mo Yihuai had misled her. The Emperor condemned Mo Yihuai for attempting to commit murder through her hands.
He then revealed that the captured servant had already confessed everything, including her involvement in the past assassination attempt on Mo Liancheng and Qu Xiaotan. Enraged by his mother's cruelty, the Emperor immediately decreed that Empress Dowager be confined to her palace indefinitely. He then instructed Mo Liancheng to take the visibly shaken Qu Xiaotan back to their mansion and summoned Mo Yihuai to appear before him.
Episode 19 Recap
Having discovered Qu Xiaotan's plan to sacrifice herself, Mo Liancheng rushes to the Empress Dowager's palace and stops her from drinking poison. He is furious that she would consider giving up her life, and they reaffirm their deep love, vowing to live and die together. Meanwhile, the Emperor confronts his son, Crown Prince Mo Yihuai, who arrives at the grand hall with a sinister, demonic appearance.
Mo Yihuai reveals his forces have surrounded the palace and that even the imperial guards are now under his control, leaving the Emperor powerless. Empowered by the soul hunters' dark energy, Mo Yihuai attacks Mo Liancheng and Qu Xiaotan in the palace gardens. Liu Qianshui intervenes to protect them, but he is overpowered by Mo Yihuai's newfound strength. Liu Qianshui manages to help Mo Liancheng escape, but Mo Yihuai captures Qu Xiaotan.
Back at the Eighth Prince's mansion, Liu Qianshui uses his energy to heal Mo Liancheng's injuries. Their strategist, Yu Hao, reports that the Crown Prince's army is advancing on the mansion. Mo Liancheng devises a counter-plan to lure the rebels into an ambush, using a loyal metropolitan garrison to attack them from the front and rear. In a dark dungeon, Mo Yihuai tortures Qu Xiaotan, demanding the Soul Bead.
Under extreme duress, her consciousness and Qu Tan'er's physically separate, appearing as two distinct people. Qu Tan'er desperately tries to reason with the man she once loved, recounting their shared memories. For a fleeting moment, Mo Yihuai seems to recognize her, but the dark magic quickly consumes him again. When he launches a fatal attack at Qu Xiaotan, Qu Tan'er shields her with her own body, sacrificing her life and dissipating into nothingness. Mo Liancheng arrives moments too late.
Grief-stricken, he is injured by Mo Yihuai, who now holds Qu Xiaotan hostage and demands the Soul Bead in exchange for her life. While Mo Liancheng agrees to the exchange to buy time, Liu Qianshui seeks out the soul hunters, believing he can free Mo Yihuai by destroying the magemark that controls him. At the tense meeting, Mo Yihuai forces Qu Xiaotan to play the Departed Soul Flute. The melody opens the box, and a purple light emerges as the Soul Bead shatters, its fragments embedding themselves in Qu Xiaotan's forehead.
Episode 20 Recap
Having defeated the assassins who had been controlling Mo Yihuai, Liu Qianshui manages to weaken their influence. Meanwhile, Mo Yihuai, struggling against the demonic power within him, strikes Mo Liancheng. Just as he is about to harm Qu Xiaotan, his true self resurfaces. Unwilling to hurt her, he turns the dark energy on himself, ending his own life. Prince Xiaoxuan and Yu Hao arrive with reinforcements, but it is too late.
Mo Liancheng explains to the Emperor that an evil force had controlled Mo Yihuai, and he ultimately sacrificed himself to protect the woman he loved. In his final moments, a lucid Mo Yihuai lies in the Emperor's arms, unable to recall killing the real Tan'er. He apologizes for his wrongdoings and for failing her. To grant him peace, Qu Xiaotan, posing as Tan'er, forgives him, allowing him to die peacefully in his grieving father's embrace.
The Emperor confesses to Mo Liancheng that he had favored Mo Yihuai due to his strong resemblance to their grandfather, the late Emperor, and asks for forgiveness. Mo Liancheng remarks that his brother likely never wanted to be a substitute for anyone. With the political turmoil settled, Mo Liancheng and Qu Xiaotan decide to spend their remaining two years together peacefully, leaving the palace and its affairs behind. Time passes.
Qu Jianglin is exiled, marking the end of the Qu family's influence. Liu Qianshui occasionally speaks of a mysterious Xuanling Continent, hinting it holds the secrets of the couple's fate but would only say that all was destined. Qu Xiaotan goes into a difficult labor, suffering heavy bleeding. Liu Qianshui intervenes with his powers, saving her and helping deliver their son, whom Mo Liancheng names Mo Yunyu, nicknamed Yu'er.
However, Liu Qianshui warns that the Soul Bead's power within Xiaotan is now a threat to the newborn. For Yu'er's safety, she can never touch or hold her own child. Knowing her time is running out as her 25th birthday approaches, Qu Xiaotan accepts her fate. Mo Liancheng takes their son to the palace to be raised by the Emperor. Xiaotan tearfully entrusts Yu'er's care to her loyal maid, Jingxin, who promises to protect the boy with her life. Feeling at peace, Xiaotan embraces Mo Liancheng, telling him nothing can separate them now. As they hold each other, they vanish without a trace.
Episode 21 Recap
Qu Xiaotan found herself in an unfamiliar, glaring place with two suns in the sky, where her pain from childbirth magically vanished. Mo Liancheng realized that his Royal Grandfather’s prophecy about a twenty-five-year lifespan only applied in Dongyue; now that they were in the Xuanling Continent, his life could begin anew. At a registration point, two guards instructed them to get certificates for entry. Mo Liancheng explained they needed a "Xuan Plate" for a legal identity.
He went first, placing his hand on a stone stand which successfully validated his identity. When Qu Xiaotan hesitantly placed her hand on it, the stand shattered explosively, startling her into Mo Liancheng's arms. The stone's destruction alerted a dark entity, who sensed the Soul Bead's arrival in the Xuanling Continent with a man and a woman. The entity ordered them killed and the Soul Bead retrieved, vowing to break its seal and dominate the world.
Simultaneously, several Qu Clan elders, led by Elder Liu, struggled to contain the escalating power of the Dark Emperor, whose attacks on a seal were growing stronger. Elder Liu, having just returned to Xuanling, informed the others that he had found their chief, Qu Xiaotan, who had already bonded with the Soul Bead. He stressed the urgency of helping her master the Mysterious Skills of the Qu Clan so she could suppress the Dark Emperor. Soon after, dark figures attacked.
Mo Liancheng identified them as "the dregs of the Dark Emperor"—remnants of a devil who once plunged the continent into chaos—explaining they were drawn to Qu Xiaotan's powerful Ling power. As Mo Liancheng fought fiercely, he was severely injured. In desperation, Qu Xiaotan used her Soul Wandering Flute, unleashing the Soul Bead's power to fend off the attackers, but the effort caused a backlash that injured her as well.
Before collapsing and murmuring "Royal Grandfather," Mo Liancheng urged her to run. Just as the couple was about to be overwhelmed, a white-haired man resembling Mo Yihuai appeared. This was Mo Yifeng, Mo Liancheng's grandfather and the Chief of the Mo Clan, who swiftly defeated the dark hunters with an overwhelming display of power. Qu Xiaotan awoke in a luxurious room, momentarily thinking she had time-traveled again.
She accidentally discovered a new power when a nearby vase shattered with her gesture. When Mo Clan guards came to investigate, they reprimanded her and locked her in the room. From inside, she was stunned to discover she could clearly overhear the guards outside discussing her being from the Qu Clan. Through focus, she realized she could also see what was happening outside her room, abilities she excitedly recognized as clairvoyance and clairaudience.
She resolved to use these new powers to find Mo Liancheng. Using her newfound abilities, Qu Xiaotan located Mo Liancheng being treated in a pavilion, where she was confronted by Mo Yifeng. She greeted him as "Royal Grandfather," and he confirmed his identity. When she remarked on his youth, he explained that cultivators often appear younger.
Acknowledging she had used the "Inner Eye," a Qu Clan skill, to find them, he returned her Soul Wandering Flute but warned her not to use any Qu Clan skills in Mo territory, citing a century-long feud between their families. Mo Yifeng then revealed a long-held secret: the consciousness inside Mo Liancheng belonged to his dear friend, a kind doctor from the Xuanling Continent who was tragically killed in a battle between the clans.
Unwilling to let his friend perish, Mo Yifeng used the "Qiankun Seal" to preserve his consciousness. After moving to Dongyue and establishing an empire, he waited a hundred years for an opportunity. He finally transferred his friend's consciousness into the body of his newborn grandson, the current Mo Liancheng. He used the "Seven Ji Panacea" to ensure a perfect match and erase all of the original Mo Liancheng's past memories.
Horrified, Qu Xiaotan asked if he had foreseen her arrival and orchestrated their marriage. Mo Yifeng admitted he knew her true identity and that she was the only one who could save Mo Liancheng. He clarified that his prophecy about Mo Liancheng not surviving past twenty-five was because the seal on the original memories would weaken at that age.
When it breaks, the original memories will resurface, causing the current Mo Liancheng to slowly forget everything from the past twenty-five years, including her. This awakening, he insisted, was the only way to stabilize Mo Liancheng and save his life. Despite her heartbreak, Qu Xiaotan declared that she wanted Mo Liancheng to live, even if he forgot her. She adamantly stated she was only "lending him" temporarily, vowing he belonged to her alone.
Mo Yifeng then ordered her to be kept under watch. Shortly after, Liu Qianshui appeared, explaining that the abundant Ling power in the Xuanling Continent had cured her chronic headaches. He urged her to leave, but Qu Xiaotan refused, proclaiming her only loyalty was to Mo Liancheng. Seeing her determination, Liu Qianshui gave her a book containing the "Mysterious Skills of Qu Clan," instructing her to practice them to eventually suppress the Dark Emperor before taking his leave.
Episode 22 Recap
After Liu Qianshui's departure, Qu Xiaotan finds the guards at her door immobilized and takes the opportunity to escape. Following a map she mentally created from a vision, she locates the cave where Mo Liancheng is being treated but is thrown back by a magical seal at the entrance. A Mo Clan elder harshly dismisses her, but Mo Yifeng promises to notify her the moment Liancheng awakens.
Distraught, Xiaotan returns to her room and is tormented by a dream in which she is the masked figure who kills Liancheng. Desperate to see him, she knocks out a serving granny, dons her clothes as a disguise, and slips out, only to be intercepted by Mo Yifeng. He informs her that Liancheng is awake, and she ecstatically follows him. On the way, she picks a rose, Liancheng's favorite flower, holding on to the memory of a promise between them.
Upon entering Liancheng's room, she is overcome with emotion. However, when she offers him the rose, he has no memory of her and asks if she is his wife, Qu Xiaotan. Heartbroken by her tears, Liancheng proposes a deal: regardless of who he is now, he will allow her to stay by his side.
Liancheng's decision is met with opposition from the clan elders, who cite the generations-long feud between the Qu and Mo clans and the fact that Liancheng is bound to Xiaotan by a Life Bond. With his memories of their time in Dongyue gone, Liancheng often finds Xiaotan's modern manners irritating. When she complains about the elders, he punishes her by making her face a wall to reflect on her misdeeds.
He allows her in for a meal, but when she fondly reminisces about their first meeting where she called him a "sissy," his annoyance returns, and he sends her back to face the wall. Later, Liancheng senses Xiaotan's unique spiritual power and discusses his confusion with Mo Yifeng. Yifeng explains that Xiaotan, now the master of the Soul Bead, loves him unconditionally, unlike the woman from his past, Qu Xiangtan.
Liancheng then finds Xiaotan asleep in an outdoor pavilion, her image stirring a faint, unfamiliar feeling within him. After she wakes, she helps the tired Liancheng back to his room. She intends to wait outside his door, but he insists she sleep in the bed with him, as she is his wife. After some hesitation, she agrees. In bed, he asks her what she said to Mo Yifeng that moved him. Xiaotan recounts her defiant words: that she was only "lending" Liancheng to the clan for his recovery, because he belongs only to her.
Episode 23 Recap
Mo Liancheng, restless in his sleep and haunted by the fear of being forgotten, mumbled. He felt a profound emptiness, realizing it was connected to Qu Xiaotan. Despite his severe injuries, Mo Liancheng was determined to take the Mindfulness Panacea to recall their past, even though Mo Yifeng warned it could endanger his life.
Mo Liancheng insisted he needed to know what happened in the past, especially after sensing Qu Xiaotan's love and sacrifice, feeling he couldn't face himself without understanding those lost twenty-five years. Mo Yifeng reluctantly agreed to help. Qu Xiaotan awoke, asking about Mo Liancheng, and learned he was in the pharmacy. Finding the directions complicated, she decided to wait, but Mo Yifeng arrived, stating he came for her.
He explained that Qu Xiaotan could use Ling Power to help Mo Liancheng heal from his severe injuries that ordinary herbs couldn't cure. Qu Xiaotan, unfamiliar with Ling Power, learned from Mo Yifeng that it could unblock Mo Liancheng’s meridians and that only she could wield significant Ling Power because she possessed the Soul Bead. Despite her hesitation, Qu Xiaotan agreed to learn for Mo Liancheng's sake, but their secret lesson was interrupted by Mo Liancheng.
He dismissed Mo Yifeng, claiming he could teach Qu Xiaotan everything. Later, Mo Liancheng questioned Qu Xiaotan, and she confessed that Mo Yifeng said his health was worsening and she needed to practice Ling Power to save him. Mo Liancheng dismissed Ling Power as a cure, saying it could only relieve pain. As Qu Xiaotan offered to massage his shoulders, Mo Liancheng instinctively called her "Tan'er," realizing he had recovered his memory.
Qu Xiaotan embraced him, but the exertion caused Mo Liancheng to vomit blood and collapse, alarming her. Mo Yifeng explained that Mo Liancheng had forcibly taken the Mindfulness Panacea while severely injured, causing a severe back reaction that could double his injuries. He recounted the story of Mo Liancheng, a kind-hearted doctor, who fell in love with Qu Xiangtan, the ambitious heir to a hostile clan, who eventually killed him.
Mo Yifeng then revealed that Qu Xiangtan reincarnated as Qu Xiaotan. Qu Xiaotan was devastated, struggling to accept that she had killed the man she loved in her past life. Later, Mo Liancheng reassured Qu Xiaotan that he was fine and knew about his past with Qu Xiangtan. Qu Xiaotan tearfully declared her love for the Mo Liancheng before her.
Mo Liancheng explained that their past tragedy was due to misunderstandings from their conflicting backgrounds, and he didn't blame Qu Xiangtan. Mo Yifeng suggested that Qu Xiaotan’s current ability to switch personalities when she lied was a manifestation of Qu Xiangtan's guilt and obsession over lying to and causing Mo Liancheng's death.
Mo Liancheng confirmed he had increased the dose of the Mindfulness Panacea, assuring Qu Xiaotan that he would be fine and expressing his happiness at being reunited with her, wishing to spend every moment by her side. Despite his love, Mo Liancheng urged Qu Xiaotan to undo their Life Bond, fearing for her safety, but she refused, vowing to die with him.
Qu Xiaotan then had a fleeting vision of her past life, speaking to her child and parents, expressing her wish to be their daughter again. Qu Xiaotan then heard a voice calling "Chief!" and found a note from Liu Qianshui, stating he knew how to save Mo Liancheng and instructing her to meet him.
Qu Xiaotan secretly asked Mo Yifeng for sleeping pills, feigning insomnia, but eventually admitted she needed them to make Mo Liancheng sleep so she could meet Liu Qianshui without his knowledge. Mo Yifeng was reluctant, calling Liu Qianshui "crazy," but Qu Xiaotan argued that she couldn't stand by while Mo Liancheng suffered. Seeing her desperation, Mo Yifeng agreed to help her hide the plan.
That evening, Qu Xiaotan and Mo Yifeng slipped sleeping medication into Mo Liancheng's food during dinner, and he soon fell asleep. Qu Xiaotan rushed to meet Liu Qianshui, who confirmed Mo Liancheng's condition was critical due to the Mindfulness Panacea. Liu Qianshui offered a solution: soaking Mo Liancheng's body in the Tianshui Pond in the Youming Realm, where the ancient spring water could heal his injuries. However, Liu Qianshui warned of a hidden danger within the Tianshui Pond.
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
The Youming Realm holds a pivotal location known as the Tianshui Pond. Its waters, having absorbed the essence of the universe for over a thousand years by gathering rain and dew and the light of the sun and moon, are considered the holy water of the Qu Clan, possessing miraculous properties beneficial for healing injuries and widening meridians. However, the Tianshui Pond is located within the seal that traps the most formidable villain of the Xuanling Continent: the Dark Emperor.
Once a highly talented but competitive individual, he became obsessed with cultivation, was possessed by a devil, and mastered a soul-hunting skill, devouring spirits to enhance his power and causing immense suffering. Centuries ago, Qu Tan'er's previous incarnation, Qu Clan Chief Qu Xiangtan, used the Soul Bead and her clan's Mysterious Skills to defeat and seal the Dark Emperor.
The victory came at a great cost; Qu Xiangtan was severely injured and, on her deathbed, placed a protective seal on the Soul Bead's box so only her kin could touch it. Fearing the seal would weaken, she entrusted Liu Qianshui with the lifelong task of protecting the Soul Bead.
As Liu Qianshui explained all this, Qu Tan'er connected the dots, realizing her past life first traveled to Dongyue before being reborn as a real estate agent in the modern world. Qu Tan'er finally understood she was the key to the Dark Emperor's seal, realizing why she had been relentlessly pursued: only her death could release him. Liu Qianshui confirmed her pursuers were the Dark Emperor's followers and that their master had grown even more powerful in his confinement.
Qu Tan'er questioned why Mo Liancheng had hidden this from her. Liu Qianshui explained that Mo Liancheng was not only uncertain if the Tianshui Pond could cure him but was also reluctant to risk her safety.
Tan'er chided Liu Qianshui for his own silence, but he offered excuses, first claiming his "small eyes" prevented him from seeing the truth, then admitting he knew her identity after she acquired the Soul Bead but feared revealing it would endanger her before she mastered her powers. Scoffing at his excuses, Qu Tan'er asked if she could truly defeat the Dark Emperor. Liu Qianshui gave a noncommittal reply, implying it was a possibility.
Just then, Mo Yifeng entered, supporting a recovering Mo Liancheng. Enraged, Qu Tan'er accused Mo Yifeng of betraying them, not knowing that the sleeping drug she had used was ineffective against a master physician like Mo Liancheng. Mo Yifeng simply blamed her for the commotion and left, with Liu Qianshui following. Outside, the two rivals found common ground.
Liu Qianshui warned that with the Dark Emperor's power growing, an alliance between the Qu and Mo Clans was the only way to save the Xuanling Continent from destruction. Driven by a desire for vengeance against the Dark Emperor for murdering his people, Mo Yifeng readily agreed. They forged a pact: Liu Qianshui would lead Qu Tan'er and Mo Liancheng into the seal, while Mo Yifeng would command the combined Qu and Mo forces outside against the soul hunters.
Back in the room, Mo Liancheng expressed his reluctance to involve Qu Tan'er. However, she firmly stated that she now understood the full gravity of the situation and could not stand by while he weakened and the continent faced ruin. Convinced by her resolve, Mo Liancheng agreed to proceed to the Tianshui Pond and retrieved his Zhuwang Sword. As Mo Yifeng departed to rally his clan, the other three headed for the Qu Clan's forbidden area.
There, they were greeted by the clan elders, who revealed they had been reinforcing the seal for a century but were now injured and faltering against the Dark Emperor's escalating attacks. Using a Qu Clan invisibility skill, Liu Qianshui guided Mo Liancheng and Qu Tan'er into the seal. Qu Tan'er urged Mo Liancheng to begin his healing in the Tianshui Pond while she stood guard. Almost immediately, the Dark Emperor appeared, revealing their infiltration was a trap.
To protect the vulnerable Mo Liancheng, Qu Tan'er exposed herself to draw the villain's attention. The Dark Emperor recognized Liu Qianshui when he rushed in to help, striking him down with a powerful blow. After identifying Tan'er as Qu Xiangtan's reincarnation via the Soul Bead, the Dark Emperor demanded to know how to break the seal. Feigning cooperation, Tan'er taunted him with a fake ritual, telling him to walk in a circle reciting self-deprecating curses.
When he realized her trickery, she continued to mock him, claiming his powers were obsolete in the modern world of "airplanes, cannons, and the atom bomb." Enraged, he attacked her again. Knocked down and weakened, she remembered her Soul Wandering Flute. Playing a powerful melody, she managed to hinder the Dark Emperor, though the flute's immense power backfired, causing her to spit blood. She persevered, buying Mo Liancheng the final, crucial moments for his recovery.
Just as her strength gave out, Mo Liancheng emerged from the Tianshui Pond, fully healed and radiating power. He drove the Dark Emperor back and gave Tan'er medicine before preparing to fight. The Qu Clan elders then entered the seal to assist, explaining that the Soul Wandering Flute and Soul Bead, when combined with a selfless mind, were unconquerable.
However, the Dark Emperor's power was overwhelming; he easily repelled the elders, casting them out of the seal and severely injuring Mo Liancheng in the process. As the Dark Emperor prepared a final, devastating blow, Tan'er, using her last bit of life force and the power of the Soul Bead, played the flute one last time. The true power of the instrument erupted, binding the Dark Emperor.
Seizing the opportunity, Mo Liancheng unleashed a final, mighty strike with the Zhuwang Sword, shattering the villain into black smoke. With the Dark Emperor defeated, a portal to another world opened. Both knew her mission was complete, and they would be separated. After a tearful farewell, filled with memories of their time in Dongyue, Qu Tan'er was pulled into the vortex. She awoke with a start in her modern-day bedroom, fearing it was all a dream.
Rushing outside to search for "Chengcheng," she saw a brilliant light in an alleyway. From it emerged Mo Liancheng, who had used the Soul Bead's power to twist space and time to follow her. Taking each other's hands, they ran together into their new, uncertain future, their love story now continuing in a different world.
