The Prisoner of Beauty Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

The Prisoner of Beauty Synopsis

During a time of chaos, Wei Shao, having suffered the loss of his father and brothers, devotes himself to revitalizing his family and taking on its heavy responsibilities. As he leads his clan to avenge the humiliating massacre they once endured, he comes to realize that what the people truly need is not revenge and war, but peace.

For the sake of the people's livelihood, he sends a marriage proposal to the Qiao family—the very family that once betrayed the Wei clan. Qiao Man, the youngest daughter of the Qiao family, is forced into the marriage. Rumors paint Wei Shao as a ruthless warlord, and Qiao Man is well aware that this marriage is nothing more than a strategic delay. Living in the Wei household, she treads carefully, as if walking on thin ice.

After facing numerous crises together, Qiao Man and Wei Shao begin to admire each other's wisdom, strategy, and open-mindedness. Yet, the unresolved grudges of the previous generation continue to stand between them, straining their relationship.

When the Wei family faces a life-or-death crisis, Qiao Man swears to defend the city with her life, ultimately winning over both the Wei clan and Wei Shao's heart. In the end, the two fall deeply in love, resolve their families’ old conflicts through mutual understanding, and work side by side to bring peace and stability to the people.

The Prisoner of Beauty Recap

Episode 1 Recap

Wei Shao led troops to attack Bianzhou, and when the army approached the city, Xiao Qiao, who was in Yanzhou, became very anxious. She knew that Bianzhou was only Wei Shao's first stop, and Yanzhou would be next. So she went to her grandfather Qiao Gui to inquire what kind of person Wei Shao was. Qiao Gui understood that Xiao Qiao wanted to know about the feud between the two families and started from Wei Shao’s grandfather.

Back then, when Qiao Gui had just assumed the post of Governor of Yanzhou, he held a banquet, ostensibly to socialize but in truth to form alliances. At that banquet, he met Wei Shao’s grandfather and they immediately hit it off, forming an alliance. Later, the State of Wei constructed a canal, while Yanzhou had troops and horses. Wei provided water, and Yanzhou provided military aid—they supported each other and looked out for one another.

But fourteen years ago, Bianzhou dispatched a fierce general, Li Su, to attack Wei and forcibly seized Xindu. Wei waited for Qiao Gui to send troops for support, but his subordinates feared their help would be in vain and that they’d be implicated, so they refused to mobilize. Some feared losing credibility. Coincidentally, Xiao Qiao broke a piece of jade she was holding, and Qiao Gui interpreted it as a bad omen and decided to withdraw the troops.

Wei Shao’s older brother died on the battlefield to protect Wei Shao and the others. At that time, Wei Shao cried in fear. His brother hid Wei Shao in a box and told him never to trust the Qiao family, blaming their defeat entirely on the Qiao family's betrayal. Wei Shao personally witnessed the deaths of his brother and father and heard Li Su order the execution of all males in the city.

In truth, Qiao Gui knew that even if he had sent troops, they likely couldn’t have helped Wei and would have only dragged their own people into disaster. It was a reluctant decision. He believed that Lady Xu, the wife of the Marquess of Wei, was a person of great understanding, so he wrote a letter to her, hoping she would help arrange a marriage alliance to turn hostility into peace. Lady Xu agreed to the match.

Xiao Qiao also thought it was a suitable marriage, but she believed Wei Shao came with hatred and might not accept it. At this time, Da Qiao was playing games with her maids, showing no sense of urgency despite the approaching army. Xiao Qiao analyzed the risks and worried that Da Qiao would be chosen for the marriage alliance.

Da Qiao glanced at the nearby groom, Bi Zhi, with love in her eyes—this subtle movement did not escape Xiao Qiao’s notice. Xiao Zao told Xiao Qiao that Liu Yan, the heir of the royal family of Liangya, and his uncle Liu Shan had come to ask for Xiao Qiao’s hand, but their attitude was very poor.

They brought up how when the Qiao family married Lady Ding back then, she was from a wealthy family, and now they only cared about Xiao Qiao’s dowry. Their words hinted at a fear of being dragged into conflict, knowing Wei Shao had come to attack and Liangya would inevitably be implicated.

After the Qiao family disclosed their intention to form a marriage alliance with the Wei family, Liu Yan claimed he had been taken care of by the Qiao family since childhood and wasn’t afraid of being implicated, urging the marriage to proceed quickly. Liu Shan took the opportunity to agree and praised Liu Yan extravagantly, even presenting their betrothal gifts—though they had replaced the lynx with a mongoose, Liu Shan thought it was good enough.

Lady Qiao persuaded Xiao Qiao to accept the marriage, saying it was far better than Da Qiao’s fate—Da Qiao would be marrying into the dangerous Wei family. At that moment, Wei Shao was surrounding the city, intending to win without a fight. His strategist Gongsun Yang came to inform him that the Grand Lady had arranged a marriage for him, with the bride being a daughter of the Qiao family.

Gongsun Yang feared that the Qiao family might be colluding with Li Su, putting them at risk of a two-front battle. Wei Shao planned to surprise-attack the city before the two sides could form an alliance. Gongsun Yang feared the risks of such a rash move, but Wei Shao ignored him and had already assembled his troops at Bianzhou. In the first battle, Wei Shao emerged victorious, broke through Bianzhou, and captured Li Su alive.

Meanwhile, Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao lay in bed. Da Qiao comforted Xiao Qiao, saying that once she married Wei Shao, the Liangya kingdom would value her more. At that moment, Bi Zhi came looking for Da Qiao. He also wanted to fight Wei Shao to stop the war. Though Da Qiao liked Bi Zhi, she knew he was no match for Wei Shao.

She persuaded him not to go and explained that she could not flee with him either, as she was the legitimate daughter and had responsibilities and duties to fulfill. Xiao Qiao overheard their entire conversation. Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao were to be married on the same day. Da Qiao wanted to give all her good things to Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao deliberately asked for some of Da Qiao’s beloved possessions—she only wanted to help safeguard them.

Da Qiao wished Xiao Qiao a happy marriage, and Xiao Qiao wished the same for Da Qiao. Both resolved in their hearts to sacrifice for the other. Xiao Qiao specially escorted Da Qiao to see Bi Zhi, urging her to leave with him. If she married Wei Shao, her life would be over.

Xiao Qiao offered to marry Wei Shao in Da Qiao’s place, hoping Da Qiao could leave with the one she loved—even with simple food, they could be happy. Xiao Qiao realized that Liu Yan was not the person she was looking for—he feared Yanzhou so much that even knowing the betrothal gift was wrong, he didn’t object. That was a form of disrespect. Xiao Qiao said she wouldn’t marry such a timid and cowardly man.

Xiao Qiao told Bi Zhi to treat Da Qiao well. If she ever found out he mistreated her, she would chase him across a thousand miles to kill him. But if he could make Da Qiao happy, she would help him rise to success in the future. Bi Zhi was immensely grateful. Watching Da Qiao’s carriage depart, Xiao Qiao wept. The next day, news of Da Qiao’s departure spread throughout the Qiao household.

No one dared inform the Wei family, fearing they might not return. But suddenly, someone’s eyes fixed on Xiao Qiao and suggested that she marry in Da Qiao’s place. Since Wei was strong and Liangya was weak, they could only offend Liangya. Xiao Qiao came before Qiao Gui and nodded in agreement. Qiao Gui closed his eyes tightly—it was all fate. Though Li Su was tied up in prison, he was still fearless.

He had massacred Wei’s people in the past, and even if now he would be avenged, it was worth it—he regretted only that he hadn’t killed Wei Shao back then. Wei Shao, enraged, ordered Li Su to be dismembered and placed in a box. Gongsun Yang rushed to stop him but was too late. Li Su believed the world already knew of the feud between both sides, and sparing him could win public favor.

But Wei Shao said he only wanted Li Su’s life—public favor was useless to him. Xiao Qiao discussed Wei Shao’s current intentions with Qiao Gui. She believed Panyi was the gateway to Yanzhou and something Wei Shao definitely wanted. If they could use Panyi as a dowry, Wei Shao would likely agree to the marriage. Qiao Gui wept, praising Xiao Qiao’s wisdom as surpassing both her father and uncle.

The next day, her uncle handed over the seal of Panyi to Xiao Qiao and sent her off to marry. Xiao Qiao’s eyes were full of tears as she left with the seal. Along the way, she recalled Qiao Gui’s advice: to overcome strength with gentleness, to remember that this was the way to survive. If she could make the marquess bow his head, she should plan more steps for Yanzhou.

As Wei Shao fretted over the city folk’s lack of cooperation, he heard that Xiao Qiao’s carriage had arrived at the city gate. Furious, he wanted to shoot her with an arrow, but Gongsun Yang persuaded him that by accepting Xiao Qiao, they could obtain Panyi without a single soldier being lost. The Yangshui River had produced two stunning beauties—the Qiao sisters Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao—renowned for their beauty.

Wei Shao ultimately ordered Xiao Qiao’s carriage to be allowed in. Wei Shao felt that Xindu was still in ruins and not a suitable place for a wedding. Gongsun Yang said that there was no conflict—the combined forces of various powers were like a deer, and Panyi was the heart of that deer. Wei Shao replied that if the other side willingly handed over Panyi, then sparing Xiao Qiao’s life was already a mercy.

The next day, during the marriage negotiation, Gongsun Yang proposed holding the wedding in Panyi, while the Qiao family insisted on Xindu. Neither side would yield. The maid Xiao Tao couldn’t understand why they were arguing over this. Xiao Qiao explained the reasoning, and Wei Shao, eavesdropping on the conversation, immediately threatened to send her back if they had no sincerity. But when he lifted the curtain and saw Xiao Qiao behind it, he was visibly stirred.

Episode 2 Recap

Gongsun Yang pointed out that Xindu was inauspicious, as a funeral had once taken place there—tens of thousands were buried fourteen years ago. This left the Qiao family speechless, as it had indeed been Yanzhou’s fault back then. Wei Shao expressed his sincerity by sending Xiao Qiao some gifts. The envoy believed this was Wei Shao’s way of expressing interest in Xiao Qiao and that the matter could be agreed upon.

However, Xiao Qiao saw it not as goodwill, but as a threat. She inferred that if she did not give him Panyi, he would surely take it by force. To break the deadlock, she needed to understand what Wei Shao truly wanted.

Xiao Qiao sent people to inquire about Wei Shao and learned that he was extremely brutal—he had chopped Li Su’s body in pieces and stuffed it into a box, prohibited the people from praying for blessings, and did not allow anyone near him while he slept.

People speculated that this was out of fear of assassination, but in fact, it was because when he was young, Wei Shao had once survived by hiding in a box, only to witness the horrific deaths of his father and elder brother. Since then, he had feared the dark. Although Xindu had originally belonged to the Wei family, it had been occupied for a long time and had changed completely. Winning the people’s hearts would take time.

The citizens, hearing that Wei Shao was registering households every day, suspected that it was to eventually massacre them all. Upon seeing Xiao Qiao, many pleaded for her to marry soon, hoping it would curb Wei Shao’s violent urges. Xiao Qiao stood at the bridgehead, the wind stirring her red garments—an unforgettable sight. The people all praised her beauty. Wei Shao, seeing this, could not help but mock her as merely showing off her looks.

After visiting the people, Xiao Qiao seemed to understand what it was that Wei Shao truly wanted. She intentionally funded the renovation of streets and wells, thanked the people with food for repairing the roads, and bought many wildflowers. The people vied to clean up the wildflowers along the roadside and present them to her. When Wei Shao visited Xiao Qiao’s residence and saw people delivering flowers, and Xiao Qiao seriously arranging them, he was momentarily stunned.

Xiao Qiao noticed him suddenly and, startled, stood up quickly. She explained her actions and proposed that if Wei Shao married her, the people would no longer see him as terrifying and would willingly submit to him. However, Wei Shao believed Li Su was stirring up trouble and that Xiao Qiao was manipulating hearts—both equally detestable. Still, Xiao Qiao had no intention of giving up.

After all, water dripping over time can wear through stone, and her tranquil heart would do the same. The people went to the magistrate to complain, accusing Wei Shao of killing in the streets and demanding justice. Wei Shao looked at the crowd blankly, unsure what to do. Gongsun Yang reminded him that capturing Xindu was not just about reclaiming lost territory—it was for a greater dream that required the people's support. Winning their hearts would take patience.

Madam Xu’s trusted aide, Zhong Ao, arrived in the new capital to find Xiao Qiao, intending to facilitate her marriage with Wei Shao. Together, they went to the place of blessing. After Li Su entered the city, he forbade the citizens from honoring their dead. However, people secretly retrieved their relatives’ remains and the wall of blessings was built with their bones. Over time, people treated it as sacred and forgot its original meaning.

Xiao Qiao, however, knew it was a form of mourning for Wei Shao’s lost family and opposed allowing people to worship there. She insisted it must be dismantled. At that moment, Wei Shao arrived and, upon seeing Xiao Qiao, questioned her presence. She respectfully replied that she was praying for the people. But Wei Shao suddenly sneered, filled with hatred, accusing the people of letting Xiao Qiao pray there when everything was due to the Qiao family.

He ordered the wall’s demolition. The magistrate suddenly attempted to assassinate Wei Shao but was no match for him. As Wei Shao prepared to kill the magistrate, Gongsun Yang and the people intervened, begging for mercy. They praised the magistrate as a good man who had once surrendered only for the people’s sake. The magistrate mocked Wei Shao as being no different from Li Su and said he was unworthy of being the heir of the late Marquis Wei.

The people grew angry and wanted to kill him. Wei Shao sat in silence. Then Xiao Qiao arrived and suggested that since the people did not obey or respect Wei Shao, it would be better to kill them all until they submitted. That way, they could quickly marry. Wei Shao, enraged, drew his sword and held it to her neck, accusing her of being a venomous schemer. The crowd turned against Xiao Qiao and supported Wei Shao.

He declared in public that he would not fall for Xiao Qiao’s trick and released the magistrate, praising him for standing up for the people. The magistrate, moved, knelt and pledged allegiance to Wei Shao, praising him for his resemblance to the late Marquis Wei. After fourteen years, he truly submitted. Wei Shao finally showed a proud smile. Walking through the streets, people gladly registered their households to receive grain, deeply grateful to Wei Shao.

However, Xiao Qiao was later surrounded by the people atop the Dantai and was urged not to marry Wei Shao. Wei Shao dispersed the crowd and approached Xiao Qiao, his eyes falling on the sword mark on her neck. He said nothing, though he now understood that her earlier actions had been to help him win the people’s hearts. Still, he disliked such manipulative behavior.

Before leaving, Wei Shao left a box of medicine on a pillar for her to treat her wound. Xiao Qiao gave him a blessing token she had obtained from prayer. Back home, Wei Shao stared at the “eternal union” token for a long time. Wei Shao returned to the street and saw that some people had not received grain and were causing a commotion. He promised everyone would be fed.

Gongsun Yang investigated and found that all of Wei territory was suffering from a food shortage and there were more refugees than expected. The only way to solve the problem was for Wei Shao to marry Xiao Qiao and acquire Panyi. Wei Shao demolished the wall of blessings, which was built from the bones of the people. He did not want everyone to live in hatred.

He promised that no matter where someone came from, they would be considered citizens of Xindu. The magistrate would continue governing, and Wei's soldiers would rebuild Xindu with the people, ensuring a peaceful life for all. Xiao Qiao watched Wei Shao with teary eyes. Though he spoke of forgetting hatred, he had never once stopped grieving his father and brother. Gongsun Yang and others urged Wei Shao to marry Xiao Qiao quickly.

She happened to arrive and proactively handed over the seal of Panyi, saying she could help solve the food crisis in the city. She believed in Wei Shao’s goodness and was willing to hand it over early. But Wei Shao suddenly turned hostile, accusing the Qiao family of trying to erase fourteen years of hatred with a mere marriage agreement.

He mocked Qiao Gui for deceiving his grandfather back then and declared he would never fall for the Qiao family’s tricks. Only then did Xiao Qiao realize that everything Wei Shao said at the wall of blessings had been a calculated lie to deceive her.

Episode 3 Recap

Wei Shao’s words made Xiao Qiao think he was going to break off the engagement. However, Wei Shao frankly admitted he wasn’t going to break it off, he merely wanted to expose the Qiao family’s plot. He warned Xiao Qiao to get out of there—he wouldn’t kill her for the sake of the seal, but he wanted her to return and tell her family to clean their necks and wait for her.

Tears welled in Xiao Qiao’s eyes as she stared at Wei Shao, realizing she had also misjudged him. Generals Wei Liang and Wei Qu were ordered to drive Xiao Tao and the others out. Xiao Tao and the envoy couldn’t believe they were being expelled and feared they wouldn't be able to return to their lord.

At that moment, Gongsun Yang also tried to persuade Wei Shao not to break the agreement, pointing out that the Qiao family had already offered Panyi. But Wei Shao believed the other side was retreating to advance, merely forcing him to marry. If they weren’t driven out now, they would only press harder. Gongsun Yang reminded him that she was, after all, just a young woman.

Meanwhile, the people of the city were chasing Xiao Qiao’s carriage, throwing things at it. Even the envoy regretted letting a woman take charge, believing none of this would have happened if they hadn’t followed her. Xiao Qiao proposed going to Panyi to prepare to oppose Wei Shao. Outside the city, in a forest, Xiao Qiao’s carriage was ambushed. Liu Yan led a group to her rescue.

Xiao Qiao pretended to cry, thanked Liu Yan for saving her, blamed herself for the broken engagement, and expressed fear that Wei Shao would come after her. She suggested joining forces with Liu Yan to resist Wei Shao, and Liu Yan immediately agreed to go to Panyi with her. Liu Shan mocked Liu Yan for treasuring such an abandoned woman, but Liu Yan saw Xiao Qiao as a true treasure.

However, he also stated he wouldn’t forget the important matter between them. Liu Shan was finally satisfied but reminded Liu Yan not to trust anyone from the Qiao family. Qiao Gui and the others soon heard that Xiao Qiao had gone to Panyi and were worried something might happen to her. Xiao Qiao’s younger brother, Qiao Ci, blamed himself for not protecting his two sisters. While fleeing, Da Qiao blamed herself for escaping and leaving her sister behind.

She was deeply concerned about Xiao Qiao. Bi Zhi, although willing to stay with Da Qiao for life, didn’t want to see her in sorrow. He told her about Xiao Qiao being driven out and suggested they go find her together. He also offered to escort Da Qiao back to reunite with her family. Da Qiao decided to go to Panyi to find Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao and Liu Yan entered Panyi and took control of it.

Wei Shao was furious when he received the news. He publicly accused Xiao Qiao of having an illicit relationship with Liu Yan and vowed to capture and execute them. Xiao Qiao had a dream where Wei Shao brutally murdered her family. She woke up in fright and swore never to let that nightmare become reality. Later, Liu Yan approached Xiao Qiao to discuss marriage. Xiao Qiao said she needed to consult her elders.

Liu Shan asked the county magistrate of Panyi, Yang Feng, to accept the betrothal gifts on their behalf so they could conclude things quickly. Xiao Qiao agreed to follow Liu Yan’s arrangements but also expressed concern that Wei Shao might seek revenge. Yang Feng arrived at that moment to find Xiao Qiao but was blocked at the door by Liu Yan, who insisted he report directly to him.

Left with no choice, Yang Feng informed him that Wei Shao’s forces were approaching. Liu Shan suggested that Liu Yan rally the people to stop Wei Shao outside the city of Panyi. Wei Shao led his troops to the outskirts of Panyi. Inside the city, the people were in heated discussion. Some believed Wei Shao would slaughter the city, while others thought Liu Yan would successfully defend it, declaring him a more suitable match.

Xiao Qiao realized these rumors were deliberately spread by Liu Yan to manipulate public opinion. She happened to run into Yang Feng, who was transporting a cart of sulfur, and whispered to him that if the people might get hurt, they should abandon the plan to attack Wei Shao. Xiao Qiao reminded Liu Yan that if he intended to use sulfur, it must not harm the city’s people.

But Liu Yan’s real plan was to use the sulfur to destroy the dam of Yongning Canal and flood Xindu. Xiao Qiao feared for the lives of Xindu’s citizens and grieved for them. She finally realized that Liu Yan’s so-called love for the people only applied to his own people—he didn’t care about the lives of others. Seeing Xiao Qiao’s growing hostility, Liu Yan had her placed under house arrest. Xiao Tao was also captured by Liu Shan’s men.

Xiao Qiao and her loyal companions were all trapped in a room. Xiao Tao was furious, saying Liu Yan’s actions were even worse than Wei Shao’s. Although Wei Shao had seemed cruel, at least he hadn’t tied them up. Liu Yan had only used Xiao Qiao to open the gates of Panyi. Wei Shao launched an attack on Panyi, firing arrows at the city walls.

In the battle between the two armies, many of Panyi’s defending soldiers died, but Liu Yan wasn’t concerned. Panyi’s terrain was easy to defend and hard to attack. As long as they held out for two days, the sulfur setup would be complete, and they could flood Xindu. Xiao Qiao had already guessed that Liu Yan was stalling. She burned the rope binding her hands with a candle and tried to escape to warn Wei Shao, regretting her earlier rashness.

She deliberately knocked over bamboo scrolls to make noise and attract the guards. She then jumped out the window and escaped by boat to the granary area. Upon inspection, she discovered that some of the granaries were filled entirely with sulfur. Although Wei Shao was only feigning an attack, the unwavering spirit of Panyi’s citizens surprised him.

He discovered traces of sulfur and guessed that the enemy planned to use it as a weapon, concluding that Liu Yan was even more ruthless than Li Su. Just then, he saw the city granary on fire and believed it was divine intervention. He also thought Liu Yan had brought this upon himself, so he ordered an immediate assault on Panyi. Liu Yan fled the city but couldn’t bear to leave Xiao Qiao behind.

He took men to search for her. After Wei Shao entered the city and didn’t find Xiao Qiao, he ordered a thorough search. He encountered Xiao Tao, who, along with Yang Feng, told him everything about how Xiao Qiao had helped Wei Shao. However, there was still no sign of Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao crawled out from a water jar and immediately saw Wei Xiao approaching.

Wei Xiao drew his bow, aiming to kill Xiao Qiao to avenge his father and brother. Terrified, Xiao Qiao turned and fled, but Wei Xiao released the deadly arrow.

Episode 4 Recap

Wei Xiao blamed all of his suffering on the Qiao family’s betrayal and naturally wouldn’t spare Xiao Qiao. Just as he was about to shoot his arrow, Wei Shao arrived and pushed Wei Xiao, causing the arrow to veer off. Wei Shao told Wei Xiao that it was Xiao Qiao who had saved them. As Xiao Qiao fled, she found Liu Yan ahead of her and Wei Shao pursuing from behind, leaving her trapped in the middle.

Liu Yan recalled how the six years he had spent with the Qiao family were the happiest of his life, and that his feelings for Xiao Qiao had never changed. If she was willing to leave with him, he would let everything go. He even called her by her childhood nickname, Manman, and said she was as precious to him as a treasure.

But Xiao Qiao suddenly ran toward Wei Shao, rebuking Liu Yan for treating her like a treasure while seeing all others as ants. Liu Shan, seeing Xiao Qiao run to Wei Shao, ordered his men to shoot. Wei Shao rushed to shield Xiao Qiao in his arms. Still trembling from fear, Xiao Qiao gave Wei Shao a hard slap across the face. The generals quickly chased after the enemy, leaving Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao a moment alone.

Tears welled up in Xiao Qiao's eyes as she accused Wei Shao of ordering her to be sacrificed without evidence and blaming her for eloping with Liu Yan. Wei Shao saw the burn scars on her hand from breaking the ropes and was softened by her crying accusations. He offered to carry her on his back.

As she lay on Wei Shao’s back, Xiao Qiao kept talking, saying she no longer intended to marry him, accusing him of caring only for the dowry—once he had it, he drove her away, no different from Liu Yan. Xiao Qiao wasn’t truly giving up on marrying Wei Shao—she just knew the best way now was to win his heart. She wanted Wei Shao to come ask for her hand himself. Meanwhile, Qiao Gui, gravely ill, left behind a will.

As he lay dying, his greatest concern was still Xiao Qiao. He instructed his sons to fulfill any request she made. He also repeatedly mentioned Marquis Wei, feeling ashamed for letting him down, before closing his eyes for the last time. The people turned out in large numbers to bid him farewell, showing how beloved he was. After Wei Shao entered Panyi, he wasn’t welcomed by the people.

His men tried to register the population and distribute food as they had in Xindu, but were refused. Yang Feng suggested it was because the people believed Liu Yan was the rightful husband, and once Xiao Qiao spoke the truth, they would accept Wei Shao. Gongsun Yang agreed and proposed Wei Shao speak to Xiao Qiao about it.

But out of pride, Wei Shao refused to go himself and instead sent his four elite guards one by one to persuade her. Each time, Xiao Tao turned them away, claiming Xiao Qiao had gone to bed. Gongsun Yang then advised Wei Shao to apologize personally, since Xiao Qiao had suffered greatly. Wei Shao, stick in hand, declared he would go teach Xiao Qiao a lesson, only to find she had disguised herself and left.

He secretly followed and saw she had gone to meet Da Qiao. Da Qiao asked Xiao Qiao to leave with her, but Xiao Qiao lied, saying she had fallen in love with Wei Shao and was willing to marry him. Wei Shao overheard this and was secretly pleased. Da Qiao no longer pressed her and left with Bi Zhi. That night, Wei Shao visited Xiao Qiao and confronted her about the meeting with Da Qiao.

But he also acknowledged that her willingness to marry him wasn’t out of love, but for the people. He apologized for having made things so difficult for her. The next day, Xiao Qiao publicly admitted that the Qiao family had once broken their promise. But then Wei Shao knocked down the prayer wall of Xindu and declared that from this day forward, Panyi was his.

He explained that his purpose for coming was to rebuild the canal to benefit the people, and urged everyone to work together. The crowd was stirred and began to support him. Standing among them, Da Qiao finally felt at ease. Wei Shao was surprised that Xiao Qiao had guessed he was planning to rebuild the canal, even though he hadn’t mentioned it.

Xiao Qiao explained that the reason Bianzhou had attacked Xindu in the past was because Yanzhou had helped Wei rebuild the Yongning Canal. In the end, they had to destroy it to sever that lifeline. When she handed Panyi over to him, she already saw everything clearly, but still gave him her heart. Now, having persuaded the people to support him, if Wei Shao went back on his word, he would be betraying both Yanzhou and Wei.

Wei Shao knew he couldn’t argue with her and had truly accepted her in his heart. Xiao Qiao saw Da Qiao off and urged her to write once she found a place to settle down. She also felt heartache for her sister, who had never suffered so much. A massive boulder blocked the road outside. Bi Zhi used his divine strength to move it aside, stunning Xiao Qiao.

Once Bi Zhi was gone, Xiao Qiao quietly told Da Qiao that on the border of Bianzhou, Liangya, and Wei, there was a place called Boya. Since Panyi had been handed over, they needed to keep one backup plan. She hoped Bi Zhi could guard Boya. In the past, Yanzhou kept retreating because there were no strong fighters. Now that one had finally appeared, Xiao Qiao could rest easier. Xiao Qiao originally planned to prioritize the canal project.

She knew Wei Shao would be too distracted by that to start any more wars, giving Yanzhou time to breathe. Later, she would use their marriage to change the course of events. But she never expected the messenger to bring news that disrupted everything—Qiao Gui had passed away. Thinking of his nickname for her, tears streamed down Xiao Qiao’s face. The messenger reminded her that rebuilding the canal was crucial and couldn't be delayed by personal feelings. That night, under the moonlight, Xiao Qiao seemed to see Qiao Gui’s face and smile again. Her tears fell once more.

Episode 5 Recap

Xiao Qiao sobbed uncontrollably, devastated that she hadn't seen her grandfather one last time. The matron planned to pack up and take Xiao Qiao back to see him, but Xiao Qiao, knowing that the great plan had not yet come to fruition, understood she could not return now. She could only gaze at the moon, entrusting it with her grief and longing for her grandfather. Wei Shao also received the news and learned that Qiao Gui had passed away.

Everyone was furious, believing that the Qiao family sent the message at this moment to prevent the marriage. Wei Shao asked Xiao Qiao privately whether she still intended to marry. Xiao Qiao frankly said the marriage was her grandfather's wish before his death, and she would never blame herself for it.

Wei Shao turned to look at Xiao Qiao, and the tears she was trying hard to suppress stirred a bit of tenderness in his heart, but he left without saying a word. At dusk, Wei Shao came to Xiao Qiao’s door with a lynx beast, expressing his sincere intention to marry her. That night, Xiao Qiao dressed in mourning attire to pay respects to Qiao Gui, then bathed and changed into a red wedding dress.

Although she smiled, her eyes were filled with tears. She believed her grandfather would not blame her. Wei Shao, dressed as the groom, performed the grand rituals to marry Xiao Qiao. However, his mind was filled with his elder brother's dying words, and he seemed to hear the whinnies of horses ringing in his ears. Only with Gongsun Yang’s reminder did he force himself back to the present and personally welcomed Xiao Qiao, who was waiting outside.

Xiao Qiao nearly tripped on her long dress but was instinctively caught by Wei Shao. The two performed the ceremonial rites under everyone's gaze. During the nuptial wine ritual, Wei Shao barely accepted the wine, looking up at the memorial tablets of his father and brother. Unable to swallow, he collapsed to the ground, while Xiao Qiao remained silent, holding back her grief.

During the banquet, the generals were still indignant over Qiao Gui’s death, regretting they hadn't avenged him personally. Gongsun Yang reminded them that today was Wei Shao’s wedding day, and only then did they begin to drink. Wei Shao then promised Xiao Qiao that from today on, they were husband and wife—she was now a woman of the Wei family, not a daughter of the Qiao family.

Whatever he did to the Qiao family had nothing to do with her, and he would not harm her. Watching Wei Shao’s departing figure, Xiao Qiao sat on the ground and cried bitterly. Wei Shao went to the ancestral memorial tablets, while at the same time, Xiao Qiao removed her wedding gown and changed into mourning attire to kneel and pay respects to her grandfather.

The matron reminded Xiao Qiao that once she followed Wei Shao to Wei territory, she could no longer worship Qiao Gui’s spirit. On the road, Xiao Qiao sat in the carriage, her face expressionless. Occasionally, she would lift the curtain to glimpse Wei Shao riding ahead. They exchanged no words and avoided each other’s eyes. Suddenly, heavy rain began to fall.

Wei Shao insisted on traveling through the night, fearing they would miss the sacrificial rites for his father and brother. Gongsun Yang reminded him that Xiao Qiao was still injured and not fit to travel in the rain, but Wei Shao insisted. Xiao Tao, wanting to prepare hot water for Xiao Qiao, got into another argument with Wei Liang. When Xiao Qiao heard it was the Qiao family’s memorial day, she also insisted on continuing the journey.

At the city gates, local relatives gathered to welcome Wei Shao. His cousin Zheng Chuyu greeted him and asked why Xiao Qiao hadn’t entered the city. Wei Shao had deliberately left Xiao Qiao outside the city, planning to let Zheng Chuyu bring her in only after the sacrificial rites. Zheng Chuyu glanced at the carriage and happened to see half of Xiao Qiao’s face.

Xiao Tao was upset that they had been left in the deserted outskirts, but Xiao Qiao understood that it was indeed inappropriate for them to attend the rites that day. At the sacrificial ceremony, the relatives were not convinced that Wei Shao should become the young lord. Wei Dian was especially defiant, mocking Wei Shao for being afraid of blood and daring to aspire to be emperor.

In response, Wei Shao cut his palm with a sharp blade to prove he had no fear. Madam Xu also stood up to support Wei Shao, declaring him the rightful lord, and only then did the others bow in acknowledgment. At that moment, Wei Shao took the lead in vowing to eliminate the Qiao family to avenge his father and brother. Wei Shao’s marriage to Xiao Qiao caused further dissatisfaction among the relatives, who demanded an explanation.

Gongsun Yang presented the seal of Pan Yi, but the others criticized Wei Shao for failing to seize Kang Commandery while the opportunity was hot. Wei Shao retorted by questioning why Wei Dian hadn’t gone to reinforce them. Wei Dian denied receiving any letter. Wei Shao stated that he had never forgotten his vengeance, but this time, he was fulfilling his grandfather’s wish to rebuild the Yongning Canal. Since they had waited fourteen years, they could wait another ten.

The crowd fell silent. Inside the carriage, it was bitterly cold. Xiao Qiao fell ill. Xiao Tao and Xiao Zao went down to secure a rain cover, while Wei Qu and the others stood at a distance, watching but not helping. They waited through the night in the wind and rain. The next morning, Xiao Tao went to Wei Liang again to ask if they could enter, but he still refused.

Wei Shao, though seated indoors, was worried about Xiao Qiao and stayed awake all night. Xiao Qiao developed a fever. At that moment, someone arrived to deliver a divorce letter, intending to drive her away and send her back to Yanzhou. Wei Liang sensed something was wrong, believing Wei Shao would never do such a thing.

He sent Xiao Tan to report directly to Wei Shao, who then learned that Zheng Chuyu had not brought Xiao Qiao into the city even though the rites had ended two days ago. Zheng Chuyu came to explain that it was her aunt who sent the divorce letter and tried to drive Xiao Qiao away, and there was nothing she could do.

Xiao Tao knelt and begged Wei Qu to save Xiao Qiao, but because the messenger had not returned, Wei Qu and the others dared not act without orders. Watching the soldiers forcefully push the carriage away, they felt conflicted. Willing to suffer beatings, they tried to stop the carriage. Just then, Wei Shao arrived at a gallop, scolded the soldiers, and carried Xiao Qiao into the city.

Episode 6 Recap

In the pouring rain, Wei Shao carried Xiao Qiao back into the city. Seeing Xiao Qiao unconscious, he held her even tighter in his arms. At that moment, Xiao Tao got up and looked at their retreating backs, scolding Wei Liang for being heartless. Wei Liang instinctively used his cloak to shield Xiao Tao from the wind and rain, but she rejected him, thinking he was being insincere.

Xiao Qiao woke up in a daze and saw Wei Shao right in front of her before closing her eyes again. A maid hurriedly brought in some items for warmth. Gongsun Yang thought the whole situation was absurd—after all, Xiao Qiao had been left outside the city for days, exposed to the elements. If the news got out, it would damage Wei Shao’s reputation. Wei Shao's expression shifted slightly.

After a check-up, Xiao Qiao was found to be fine and gradually woke up. Xiao Zao and others told her that a woman named Zheng Chuyu had arranged a side courtyard for her to stay in. At this moment, Wei Shao came to visit. Xiao Qiao didn’t blame him; instead, she empathized with the hardships Wei Shao must have endured lately. She even asked about the location of the side courtyard.

Still coughing incessantly and looking frail, she could barely stand. Seeing this, Wei Shao immediately insisted she stay where she was. In reality, Xiao Qiao wasn’t that ill. Having been left outside for days, if she were now sent off to the side courtyard, her position would certainly become unstable—so she pretended to be gravely ill on purpose.

Zheng Chuyu had initially arranged the side courtyard out of jealousy, but didn’t expect that Wei Shao would end up staying there at night. The next morning, when she brought clothes over, she found the two had switched rooms. Furious, she went to her aunt to sow discord, causing the aunt to gnash her teeth in anger toward Xiao Qiao, believing that Xiao Qiao was bullying her son.

Wei Shao had already begun construction on Yongning Canal and stationed 3,000 elite troops in Panyi to deter any ambitions toward the area and to intimidate Yanzhou. Gongsun Yang opposed the plan, fearing that stationing troops might make the Qiao family uneasy and reminding Wei Shao that it would be difficult to get along with Xiao Qiao in the future.

But Wei Shao said he had already made it clear at the time of their marriage: Xiao Qiao would be a Wei family woman, and at this moment, he had no time to care about other things. When Wei Shao returned, he found that Xiao Qiao still hadn’t moved out and came to urge her. Xiao Qiao immediately pretended to cough and generously began packing to move to the side courtyard.

Seeing her weak and coughing yet still trying to leave, Wei Shao couldn’t bear it and agreed to let her stay for one more day and move out the next day. But after leaving, he noticed the coughing had stopped inside and realized he had been tricked. He only gave a bitter smile and left without pressing the matter.

Wei Dian again urged Wei Shao to take a concubine and have a child to raise a future heir, even recommending his own relative. He insisted that Wei Shao’s marriage to Xiao Qiao was purely political and that having children was impossible. Others also began recommending candidates, but Wei Shao publicly declared that his feelings for Xiao Qiao had grown over time and that her righteousness made her worthy of being called Lady.

Gongsun Yang and others also praised their deep affection, noting that Wei Shao had even moved to the side courtyard for her. Wei Dian realized Wei Shao was just finding excuses to reject his recommendation and became even more displeased. Wei Shao assigned more people to care for Xiao Qiao and even moved his belongings to the side courtyard.

Chun Niang felt Xiao Qiao had finally turned her luck around, but Xiao Qiao remained cautious, unwilling to blindly believe what others said. Xiao Tao came to do business, hoping to help manage Xiao Qiao’s future life. Since Wei Shao had stationed troops in Panyi, Liu Shan regretted not having Liu Yan pay more attention to Xiao Qiao earlier—had he done so, they might have secured Panyi. Now, taking Panyi would be even harder.

Liu Yan proposed reinforcing Xiaofeng to pressure Panyi, and Liu Shan immediately agreed and hurried to make arrangements. A letter from Yanzhou advised Xiao Qiao to bear Wei Shao’s children as soon as possible and hoped Wei Shao would no longer covet Yanzhou. But Xiao Qiao knew it wouldn't be resolved so easily. In the study, everyone urged Wei Shao to take a concubine, fearing Xiao Qiao was not fit to bear his heirs.

Wei Shao scolded them, praising Xiao Qiao's poise and courage, and ordered that no one bring up concubines again. Just then, Xiao Qiao, who had come to deliver red bean porridge, overheard the conversation. As she turned to leave, she ran into Xiao Tan, who came in to report. To show his affection for Xiao Qiao, Wei Shao went out personally to greet her, held her hand, and led her into the study—a place women weren't allowed to enter.

Gongsun Yang took the lead in bowing to her. Wei Shao then draped his cloak over Xiao Qiao’s shoulders in front of everyone, who wisely excused themselves. Xiao Qiao stood there completely baffled. After the crowd left, Xiao Qiao explained that she had come to thank Wei Shao for taking care of her recently and that she had recovered. She asked him to return to his own quarters, but Wei Shao only replied faintly with, “I know.

”That night, Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao returned together, but the road was soaked with rainwater. Wei Shao picked her up to carry her over a puddle, making Xiao Qiao smile. She thought she would be the one staying in the side courtyard that night, but it turned out Wei Shao went there instead, making Xiao Qiao blush. Xiao Tao teased that Wei Shao now carried Xiao Qiao so naturally. Xiao Qiao felt embarrassed.

It was Wei Shao who had carried her back into the city that day too. Only then did Xiao Qiao realize she had misunderstood him—he never meant to leave her out there. Yet she had deliberately made him stay in the side courtyard all that time. At that moment, Xiao Tan arrived with plain-colored clothing, which Wei Shao had specially prepared in consideration of Xiao Qiao’s mourning period.

The next day, Xiao Qiao brought clothes for Wei Shao, but he draped them over her shoulders instead and told her just to take care of herself. After he left, Xiao Qiao entered the side courtyard and found it truly shabby. The maids outside whispered about her until Xiao Tao drove them away. Xiao Qiao felt she should repay Wei Shao.

She initially wanted her own people to clean the place, but thinking of those who had gossiped about her, she ordered them back to clean it themselves. In private, Xiao Tao questioned Wei Liang about what happens after training. Wei Liang didn’t understand and consulted Wei Qu and others about why someone would be asking about him. Wei Qu guessed that the girl might be in love with the guy. Wei Liang was delighted, thinking Xiao Tao liked him.

In truth, Xiao Tao was gathering information about Wei Shao’s preferences for Xiao Qiao. When Wei Shao returned and saw the newly decorated room, and heard Xiao Qiao had personally led the redecorating effort, he immediately ordered her to be notified that he would take her to meet his grandmother the next day. Early the next morning, a nervous Xiao Qiao came looking for Wei Shao.

He walked fast, so she jogged after him, out of breath, hurriedly calling him to explain that her legs were short and her dress was long, making it hard to keep up. Wei Shao complained aloud about the trouble but told her to go first—he could catch up even if he left after a stick of incense. Yet when he saw Xiao Qiao vanish at the gate, he quickly sprinted after her.

Episode 7 Recap

Wei Shao took Xiao Qiao to visit Madam Xu. He even personally sewed a pair of shoes for her. Madam Xu had also prepared a gift for Xiao Qiao. She did not blame Wei Shao for not bringing his wife earlier. Instead, she sent Wei Shao away and spoke with Xiao Qiao alone. Madam Xu did not make things difficult for Xiao Qiao. Having heard that Qiao Gui was skilled in divination, she inquired about it.

Xiao Qiao admitted that back then, Qiao Gui refrained from sending troops because he had glimpsed a heavenly secret and had felt guilty ever since. Madam Xu did not press further and told Xiao Qiao she didn’t need to follow every strict etiquette rule nor greet her daily. She was welcome to come copy scriptures when free. Xiao Qiao immediately agreed. Bi Zhi, so as not to damage Da Qiao’s reputation, stayed outside at night.

However, when it started raining heavily, Da Qiao came to see Bi Zhi despite the downpour, worried for him. She hoped Bi Zhi would stop worrying so much about others’ opinions. Moreover, the neighbors already assumed they were husband and wife. Bi Zhi understood Da Qiao’s feelings, and Da Qiao kissed him proactively. The next day, Bi Zhi carried a large piece of wood to find a craftsman to help him make a konghou (a type of harp).

Wei Shao’s mother summoned Xiao Qiao, intending to assert dominance by blaming her for not offering morning greetings. But Xiao Qiao brought up Madam Xu’s request for her to copy scriptures. Although Wei Shao’s mother was upset, she did not dare speak further. She then had someone inform Wei Shao to come for dinner, intending to complain about Xiao Qiao. Bi Zhi drove off the conscription officer who came to press the villagers into service.

The people knelt to him, regarding him as their savior, and hoped he would lead them in resisting oppression and seeking a path to survival. But Bi Zhi, having just married, only wanted a peaceful life with his wife. The villagers reminded him that if trouble kept coming, Da Qiao wouldn’t be able to live in peace either. Bi Zhi finally agreed, though he worried he wasn’t skilled in strategy. Luckily, one of the villagers was and offered to assist.

When Da Qiao heard what happened, she wanted Bi Zhi to flee with her, fearing retaliation from Xue Tai’s people. But Bi Zhi wanted to become the master of Bo Ya, so he could counterbalance Panyi and fulfill his promise to Xiao Qiao. Da Qiao stopped trying to persuade him. She walked outside with Bi Zhi and saw the people across the river kneeling and calling him “General. ” Da Qiao smiled.

Lady Wei invited Wei Shao for dinner and even made him a pair of shoes. But the boots didn’t fit at all. She suggested that Wei Shao marry Zheng Chuyu. Wei Shao agreed to think about it seriously. When Wei Shao returned, his feet already hurt from the ill-fitting boots. Seeing Xiao Qiao copying scriptures and touching a box in front of her, Wei Shao immediately took the box and forbade her from touching his things without permission.

Xiao Qiao noticed the shoes didn’t fit him well and brought a pair she made herself, which fit perfectly. She then asked to take the shoes Lady Wei made to study. Wei Shao agreed. He was confused why Xiao Qiao cared so much about his well-being but refused to serve Lady Wei by making soup. Xiao Qiao explained she had never learned to cook and didn’t dare admit it, afraid her mother-in-law would think she was making excuses.

Wei Shao then asked her to prepare for the marriage to Zheng Chuyu. Xiao Qiao went to Madam Xu under the pretext of choosing calligraphy style for scripture copying and asked what script would be appropriate for drafting a concubine-taking document for Zheng Chuyu. Madam Xu immediately saw through the pretense and asked her to speak plainly.

Xiao Qiao believed that since Wei Shao had previously refused his uncles’ requests to take concubines, he now needed a proper reason to appease them. Madam Xu understood the stakes and approached Lady Wei, saying Zheng Chuyu’s dowry was already prepared and that another match had been chosen. Lady Wei did not dare to argue and agreed.

Wei Shao came to find Xiao Qiao, aware that she had gone to see Madam Xu without permission, but he did not scold her. He only reminded her not to tamper with the study’s items. Xiao Qiao left the study holding something. Wei Shao thought she was angry and, upon hearing footsteps return, assumed Xiao Qiao had come back.

He explained he didn’t doubt her and that she was always welcome in the study—but to his surprise, it was Zheng Chuyu who had entered. She happily brought him some pastries but was driven away by Wei Shao, who warned her not to enter again without permission. In Bo Ya, Xue Tai came with his men to teach Bi Zhi a lesson but was instead defeated. The people cheered.

Bi Zhi disrupted the enemy horses with a simple whistle and, in the ensuing chaos, led an attack. Da Qiao, fearing they couldn’t defeat Xue Tai, wrote to Kang Commandery for help. But Lord Qiao refused to send troops, fearing it would offend Wei State. He only agreed to send soldiers to bring Da Qiao back—refusing to offer further support. When Wei Shao returned, he discovered that the box had been tampered with and bore knife marks.

Xiao Qiao explained she had never touched it and didn’t even know what was inside. Wei Shao didn’t believe her, convinced the Qiao family was full of petty people. He grabbed Xiao Qiao by the neck and warned her that if she ever touched his things again, she should return to Kang Commandery.

Xiao Qiao clearly saw the murderous intent in his eyes and felt a chill, but she remained calm and ordered an investigation into who else had entered the study. But after Xiao Zao and Chun Niang questioned some servants, no one was willing to help or tell the truth. Chun Niang suggested going to Madam Xu, but Xiao Qiao said since Madam Xu was Lady Wei, she couldn’t be involved in everything. Xiao Qiao wanted a definite conclusion.

Even though she was currently at a disadvantage, she wouldn’t simply accept her fate. When Wei Shao was discussing canal construction with Gongsun Yang and Wei Qu, Xiao Qiao came in uninvited, grabbed the box, and opened it easily in front of everyone, proving her innocence. She explained that she knew it was something Wei Shao treasured, and if she had wanted to open it, she could have done so effortlessly—she would never scratch something he loved.

Xiao Qiao then accused Wei Shao of being suspicious of her despite marrying her. If they shared the same bed in the future, would he suspect she might murder him in his sleep? She apologized for touching the box but firmly denied being the one who slashed it. She also promised that if he ever forgot how to open it, he could come to her. Her reasonable argument earned praise from Gongsun Yang and the others.

Wei Shao sat alone, holding the box. Inside were two embroidered handkerchiefs and a sword tassel—keepsakes from his grandfather, father, and older brother. Seeing them felt like seeing the deceased again. Tears fell from his eyes. At the same time, Wei Shao began to suspect someone else had slashed the box, recalling Xiao Qiao’s words.

Episode 8 Recap

When Wei Shao was trying to figure out who had tampered with the wooden box, Zheng Chuyu was celebrating the success of their plan with Madam Wei. In order to make Xiao Qiao leave Wei Shao, the two of them had deliberately moved the box. Just then, Wei Shao suddenly arrived, startling Zheng Chuyu into hiding in a hurry. Wei Shao candidly asked Madam Wei whether she knew someone had tampered with the wooden box.

Madam Wei deliberately suggested that it might have been Xiao Qiao. But Wei Shao told her on purpose that the box used to contain worthless items, and later, when he saw that Xiao Qiao liked it, he gave it to her and even taught her how to unlock it. So Xiao Qiao had no reason to pry it open. Afterward, Xiao Qiao had placed valuable jewelry inside. Madam Wei felt awkward and promised to investigate thoroughly.

At the same time, Wei Shao suggested finding a suitable match for Zheng Chuyu to marry, someone who would live near Madam Wei and could look after her. Inside the room, Zheng Chuyu accidentally made a noise, prompting Wei Shao to become suspicious and attempt to investigate. Madam Wei hurriedly sent him away, but before leaving, Wei Shao reminded his mother not to make things difficult for Xiao Qiao—after all, Xiao Qiao was the sovereign queen of Wei.

A messenger from Yanzhou suddenly delivered many supplies to Xiao Qiao, along with a letter. Upon learning that Da Qiao’s plea for help had been rejected by Lord Qiao, the messenger instead blamed Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao for their loving relationship, unaware that Wei Shao was actually stationed with his troops in Panyi. Xiao Qiao was shocked and resolved to raise Yanzhou’s banner in Boya using Wei Shao’s presence there.

The messenger did not believe Xiao Qiao could accomplish this, but Xiao Qiao had already sworn she would succeed. Xiao Qiao was angry at Wei Shao’s intentions. She had originally wanted a peaceful life, but Wei Shao clearly had ulterior motives. When she went to visit Madam Wei, she was turned away under the excuse that Madam Wei was ill.

Zheng Chuyu took the opportunity to sow discord, claiming that Xiao Qiao must have bewitched Wei Shao, causing the rift between him and Madam Wei. Madam Wei believed it. After returning, Xiao Qiao directly exposed that the people cleaning the courtyard were actually spies gathering information. She scolded them for their incompetence in not taking good care of Madam Wei, resulting in her illness. Seeing Xiao Qiao’s anger, the servants quickly retreated.

Not only did Xiao Qiao mend the shoes Madam Wei had made for Wei Shao, but she also prepared many of his favorite dishes. This moved Wei Shao deeply. When he visited Madam Wei, she accused Xiao Qiao of not caring about Wei Shao, not being his dearest one, and not knowing what he liked or even his shoe size. These words, however, made Wei Shao appreciate Xiao Qiao even more.

Wei Shao, unable to clarify in his heart what "dearest" and "most beloved" meant, sought advice from Gongsun Yang. Gongsun Yang helped him analyze that Madam Xu cared for him greatly and could be considered a dearest person. But Wei Shao felt that while Madam Xu was dear, she had expectations for him, and his feelings toward her were more respectful than affectionate. Toward Madam Wei, he felt more filial duty.

As for Wei Liang and the others who had fought alongside him, he wouldn’t stop them if they wanted to leave. With Gongsun Yang, what he felt was trust. Gongsun Yang wrote the characters for "love and kin" to help Wei Shao analyze. The dearest and most beloved person would be someone who wasn’t afraid to show their sorrow in front of him and was willing to share everything.

In Gongsun Yang’s view, that person was Xiao Qiao—someone to confide in. Wei Shao didn’t admit it aloud and insisted their marriage was one of political necessity, but in his heart, he was already moved. Gongsun Yang noticed all this and left with a slight smile, while Wei Shao, in frustration, scribbled over the character for "love" that Gongsun Yang had written.

That night, Wei Shao went to Xiao Qiao’s door and arranged for someone to deliver a bowl of ginseng soup but didn’t enter himself. The next day, Wei Shao waited to accompany Xiao Qiao in visiting Madam Xu. He followed behind her, and seeing water on the ground, remembered carrying Xiao Qiao in the past. He rolled up his sleeves, intending to carry her again, but Xiao Qiao had already stepped over the puddle, leaving Wei Shao slightly embarrassed.

Xiao Zao witnessed this and smiled charmingly. Xiao Qiao deliberately brought some pastries for Wei Shao but refused to go in. Wei Shao intentionally had Xiao Tan notify Xiao Qiao to come in and personally say whether the pastries suited his taste. Xiao Tan went back and forth several times, but Xiao Qiao still refused to go in. She insisted the pastries were made to suit his taste and couldn't possibly be wrong.

She also said she was worried that Wei Shao might lose his temper, so she hurried away. Wei Shao had Xiao Qiao deliver food twice in one day, but she still wouldn’t go inside. Xiao Tan, fearing being made to run back and forth again, didn’t dare enter either. Xiao Qiao simply placed the food container on the ground and left it for Wei Shao to retrieve himself. Wei Shao suddenly came out and handed his armband to Xiao Qiao.

Xiao Qiao couldn’t figure out what Wei Shao was up to. Xiao Tao helped her analyze, suggesting that Wei Shao probably felt guilty and wanted to make peace. Xiao Qiao suddenly had an idea but lacked funds. Xiao Tao immediately took out a lot of money for her. She had been going out every day, and nearly half the street now belonged to the Qiao family.

Xiao Qiao was delighted and finally understood why Xiao Tao had been going out so much—she planned to buy a zither. Soon, a konghou was brought back. But when Xiao Qiao played it, the sound was harsh. She even let Wei Shao see her cry over it. Wei Shao, concerned, asked why she was upset.

Xiao Qiao lied and said it was Da Qiao’s konghou, and seeing it reminded her of Da Qiao, who had written that she was not doing well. This saddened her, and now that the Qiao family no longer cared about them, she felt even worse. Wei Shao immediately offered to send people to help. However, he was surprised to hear that Da Qiao was staying in Boya.

Xiao Qiao explained that since Da Qiao had eloped, she could only stay in such a lawless place. Wei Shao agreed to send supplies but forbade Xiao Qiao from playing that unpleasant konghou again. Seizing the opportunity to deliver supplies, Wei Shao sent Wei Qu and others to Boya to investigate the situation with the local commander. Wei Shao personally saw Wei Qu off, sending a large amount of supplies.

Xiao Qiao also prepared a whole box of wheat seeds, believing that the more people who went, the better it would be for helping Da Qiao. As soon as Wei Qu arrived in Boya, he encountered a wild boar. He quickly aimed his bow to shoot it, but Bi Zhi beat him to it. Through this encounter, Wei Qu met Bi Zhi. Upon meeting Da Qiao, Wei Qu personally handed her the wheat seeds.

Da Qiao understood at once and found a letter inside. In it, Xiao Qiao had suggested a way to counterbalance Xue Tai. If successful, this strategy could weaken the Wei family’s influence for over three years. Wei Shao soon received word that the commander of Boya was, surprisingly, Bi Zhi. Gongsun Yang commented that whichever side Bi Zhi supported would determine whether Boya belonged to the Wei or Qiao family.

Wei Shao believed that Xiao Qiao was unaware that Bi Zhi was the commander, and Gongsun Yang said no more. Wei Shao then went to Xiao Qiao’s residence and deliberately congratulated her, saying that the commander of Boya was her brother-in-law. Xiao Qiao looked at him with distrust and said she didn’t believe Bi Zhi could be the commander because Bi Zhi was just a stable hand.

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