The Prisoner of Beauty Recap, Plot, Synopsis

The Prisoner of Beauty Synopsis

The Prisoner of Beauty Recap

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Wei Shao couldn't detect any suspicion on Xiao Qiao’s face and was convinced that she truly didn’t know about Bi Zhi. That put him at ease, but Xiao Qiao was still worried that Da Qiao and the others might not be doing well in Bo’ya. Lord Qiao, constrained by Wei Shao’s influence, dared not help Da Qiao. The two Da Qiao sisters were exiled from their home, and Wei Shao remained displeased with the typical behavior of the Qiao family.

When Wei Shao saw the armrest on the table, he asked if Xiao Qiao liked it. She hurriedly replied that she did, but mistakenly identified the material, thinking it was bamboo when it was actually jade. When Wei Shao opened the box, Xiao Qiao was terribly embarrassed, afraid he would get angry. In a rush, she handed him the pillow she had made, saying she had carefully chosen the material to help him sleep well.

But Wei Shao noticed that the pillow featured a “Generations of Sons” motif and began to speculate on Xiao Qiao’s intentions. Upon noticing his expression, Xiao Qiao anxiously explained that she hadn’t looked closely at the pattern and had simply chosen the fabric because it was soft.

Wei Shao left with the pillow in his arms, while Xiao Qiao scolded Chun Niang and Xiao Zao for not telling her earlier that the armrest was made of jade, and for choosing the wrong pillow fabric. Chun Niang couldn’t help laughing at Xiao Qiao’s bashful demeanor. Gongsun Yang and the others were waiting for Wei Shao to return. Seeing him hugging a pillow, they found it odd.

Wei Shao reassured Gongsun Yang that after carefully questioning Xiao Qiao, he believed she knew nothing about Bi Zhi and that Bi Zhi posed no serious threat. Gongsun Yang was very curious about why Wei Shao looked so happy holding that pillow. Wei Qu had disguised soldiers as civilians to go hunting with Bi Zhi.

The arrows they shot were retrieved by Xue Tai’s men, who confirmed that they were from Wei State, thus concluding that Wei Shao and Bi Zhi had formed an alliance. Not daring to provoke them, they quickly retreated. This greatly boosted public morale. Following Xiao Qiao’s earlier plan, Da Qiao deliberately raised the idea of planting a flag at Bo’ya in front of Wei Qu, to discourage others from coveting the place.

Bi Zhi, being simple-minded, asked for Wei Qu’s opinion. Wei Qu had no choice but to explain the symbols of various nations’ flags. Bi Zhi, deeply in love with his wife, suggested using her family name “Qiao” as the command banner. When Wei Qu returned, he was scolded harshly by Wei Shao, who blamed him for doing nothing but hunting and drinking, and for helping them plant a flag.

He realized it must have been Xiao Qiao’s idea and gave strict orders that no one was to get too close to the women of the Qiao family—lest they become foolish, as he himself seemed to be changing and had let down his guard around Xiao Qiao. From now on, any letter from Xiao Qiao must be screened by him first.

Wei Shao then ordered troops to be stationed at Xiao’gang, facing Bo’ya, so they could monitor it closely at all times. Wei Shao later brought food to Xiao Qiao, insisting that she eat meat and criticizing her for using his guilt to send letters to Bo’ya and help them plant the flag. Xiao Qiao didn’t deny it and asked him in return whether their marriage was merely a front for attacking the Qiao family.

If not, then there should be no problem with Bo’ya bearing the Qiao family flag. Wei Shao had no reply. When Xiao Tao went to see Wei Liang, he told her not to come near him again. Because of the Bo’ya incident, they had been ordered to keep their distance from the Qiao family. Xiao Tao told Xiao Qiao that Wei Liang was deploying troops to Xiao’gang. Xiao Qiao immediately told Chun Niang to summon the envoy Zhang Pu.

Since delivering the letter, Zhang Pu had fallen ill and had yet to leave. Xiao Qiao gave him a map, marked several key locations, and instructed him to find Da Qiao and begin mining those areas. Xiao Qiao understood that the reason Wei Shao had his eye on Xiao’gang was because it was easy to defend and hard to attack and could be used to pin down Bo’ya.

However, if a tunnel were dug from Yanzhou to Xiao’gang, it would take only half a day to reach. In that case, Xiao’gang would be within Yanzhou’s grasp. After Wei Shao left, Xiao Qiao was summoned by Madam Xu to play chess. In truth, Madam Xu was teaching her how to manage a marriage. In the past, she had always been the one to see Wei Shao off to war. Now it was Xiao Qiao.

Madam Xu hoped that Wei Shao would never have to go to war again and that this marriage could truly resolve the enmity between them. Though Madam Xu had hated the Qiao family for years, if it meant Wei Shao wouldn’t suffer anymore, she was willing to endure anything. Xiao Qiao felt a twinge of guilt. Two months later, Wei Shao returned victorious from the Battle of Xiao’gang.

He ordered tighter patrols along the border between Liangya and Xiao’gang, and stricter surveillance of travel between Yanzhou and Bo’ya. His final command was to move his bedding back into the main house and contest every inch of space with Xiao Qiao. Wei Liang and Wei Qu forcefully carried his belongings in and placed them on the bed, moving Xiao Qiao’s bamboo slips aside and replacing them with Wei Shao’s Dingxi documents.

Xiao Tao, Xiao Zao, and the others tried to argue back. The room turned into chaos. After everyone left, Xiao Tao, Chun Niang, and Xiao Qiao vented their frustrations. They felt those men came to fight over territory, wanting to prove whose domain was bigger. Xiao Qiao knew that Wei Shao was still upset about the Bo’ya incident, and she could only let things be for the time being.

That night, Wei Shao awoke from a nightmare, drawing his sword and almost pointing it at Xiao Qiao. She explained that she had seen him not sleeping well and thought the candlelight might be disturbing him, so she came to put it out. Wei Shao didn’t blame her, only warned her to wear more clothes when sleeping and not to try to seduce him with her looks. Xiao Qiao said nothing and quickly ran back to her bed.

Wei Shao, unable to fall back asleep, went to drink with Gongsun Yang. Gongsun Yang advised that if he had concerns, he should share them with someone dear to him, instead of bearing everything alone. Wei Shao simply lamented that he had no such person. As thunder and lightning roared in the sky, Xiao Qiao searched everywhere for Wei Shao and found him curled up alone in a room. When he saw her, he immediately clutched her robe.

Xiao Qiao had never seen Wei Shao like this before. Remembering the rumors that he had killed people in his sleep, she felt a bit afraid. Just as she was about to leave, he pulled her back again. Seeing him like that, she draped her own clothes over him, realizing he was afraid of the dark. Xiao Qiao held him tightly and comforted him.

The next morning, Wei Shao woke to find Xiao Qiao’s clothes covering him and the candles still burning. A sense of warmth welled up in his heart. Meanwhile, Xiao Qiao played chess with Gongsun Yang in the bamboo grove, seeking advice on how to get along as a couple. She had thought Wei Shao would still resent her for the Bo’ya incident, but it seemed he didn’t. Gongsun Yang, knowing Wei Shao well, said he was tough on the outside but soft inside and broad-minded—otherwise, he would never have allowed Xiao Qiao to stay.

Xiao Qiao suddenly felt that she had been overly suspicious. She realized she had lost the chess game to Gongsun Yang and praised his superb skills, admitting defeat with full sincerity. Xiao Qiao wrote another letter to Yanzhou. Wei Liang intercepted it directly and handed it to Wei Shao. Wei Shao found it was just a family letter, asking her aunt to copy a calming remedy and send it over for him. After reading it, Wei Shao turned and left.

Wei Qu checked around but found nothing suspicious, yet couldn’t help guessing there might be a hidden message inside. When Wei Shao came to see Xiao Qiao, she was researching which kind of candle wouldn’t irritate the eyes, hoping to give it to him. Wei Shao, however, was displeased that a small matter had become widely known.

He reminded Xiao Qiao that they were just an ordinary couple and there was no need to make a fuss over every little thing. Xiao Tao was unhappy that Wei Shao only blamed Xiao Qiao, especially since the money for the candles came from Xiao Qiao herself and didn’t disturb anyone else. Wei Shao felt a bit guilty but insisted on sending some money over, saying Xiao Qiao didn’t need to pay even a small amount.

Zheng Chuyu told Madam Wei about Bo Ya’s situation, believing Madam Xu scolded Xiao Qiao after learning about it. Since Xiao Qiao was in the wrong, Zheng Chuyu took the chance to ask Madam Wei to acknowledge the engagement. Madam Wei then summoned Xiao Qiao and asked her to agree to the concubine arrangement.

Xiao Qiao tried to use Madam Xu and Wei Shao to pressure Madam Wei, who was convinced Xiao Qiao simply didn’t want Wei Shao to take a concubine. Xiao Qiao immediately expressed her deep affection for Wei Shao and stated she didn’t want a concubine, even declaring she’d rather die than let Zheng Chuyu enter their household. She pretended to be so angry that her chest hurt, leaving Madam Wei with no choice but to drop the matter.

Wei Shao soon heard the news and asked Xiao Qiao alone if she truly loved him. Xiao Qiao replied that everything she did was to follow his wishes. If he wanted a concubine, she couldn’t stop him, but if he didn’t, she would risk her life to prevent others from interfering. Wei Shao couldn’t help but comment that Xiao Qiao’s sharp tongue was not only hurtful but also persuasive.

Zheng Chuyu pretended to leave, but Madam Wei, afraid she couldn’t handle Xiao Qiao, advised her to seduce Wei Shao. Though Zheng Chuyu initially refused, she ultimately agreed. Madam Wei invited Wei Shao for a drink. After he had three cups of wine, she pretended she needed to take medicine and left temporarily. Wei Shao suddenly felt something was wrong—his body overheated.

As he tried to leave, the servant lied that Madam Wei had a terrible headache and asked Wei Shao to check on her. Unaware it was a trap, Wei Shao entered the room, and the servant locked the door from outside. Inside, Zheng Chuyu was scantily dressed, trying to seduce him. Wei Shao pushed Zheng Chuyu away and forced himself to stay calm, ordering her to get dressed. As he tried to leave, Zheng Chuyu tightly hugged him from behind.

Wei Shao broke free, kicked the door open, and saw Madam Wei standing outside. He accused his mother of conspiring with outsiders to set him up. Madam Wei, terrified, dared not stop him. Staggering back to his room, Wei Shao saw Xiao Qiao in front of him. He suddenly remembered Gongsun Yang's advice—to confide in someone close instead of bearing everything alone. In his daze, Wei Shao promised to protect Xiao Qiao and never let her be homeless.

He picked her up and placed her on the bed, trying to kiss her. In panic, Xiao Qiao slapped him and reminded him of his promise to observe a year of mourning for his grandfather. Regaining a bit of clarity, Wei Shao explained he had consumed something dirty at his mother's place and asked for ice. He then soaked himself in ice water to cool down.

Xiao Qiao didn’t dare go far and stayed behind the screen to care for him. When she handed him water, she accidentally dropped the cup. She poured another and, through the screen, saw how much pain he was in and the wounds covering his body, which made her heart ache. As Wei Shao gradually recovered, he asked her to pass him clothes. Xiao Qiao, concerned, asked if the injuries were from Xiao Gang. Wei Shao dismissed their importance.

Noticing that Wei Shao was getting better, Xiao Qiao quickly left. That night, Xiaoyao saw Wei Shao curled up on the ground and grew even more worried. The next morning, Wei Shao woke up feeling much better. Xiao Qiao was gone, but a set of clean clothes had been left beside him. Just as he was about to step out, he heard Xiao Qiao instructing the servants not to wake him.

Xiao Qiao told everyone that Wei Shao was suffering from an old injury, preserving his dignity, which made him feel grateful. Wei Shao then went to confront Madam Wei. She apologized and feared Wei Shao would no longer acknowledge her as his mother. Worried that Madam Xu had learned of the incident, she immediately offered to accept punishment. Wei Shao told her he hadn’t spoken to anyone about it but had one condition—Zheng Chuyu must be sent away.

Madam Wei agreed but asked to prepare more things for Zheng Chuyu before sending her off, since Zheng Chuyu had been by her side for many years. Wei Shao gave her three days; otherwise, he would sever their mother-son relationship. Madam Xu privately summoned Xiao Qiao and asked her about Wei Shao's outburst and the broken door. Xiao Qiao claimed ignorance, saying she fetched the ice only for pain relief. Madam Xu didn’t press further and let her go.

Meanwhile, Madam Wei was quite pleased with how Xiao Qiao handled it. Although Xiao Qiao clearly knew the truth, she kept silent to save Madam Wei’s face, something even Madam Wei herself failed to do. Madam Xu then went to see Madam Wei and ordered Zheng Chuyu to be sent away immediately. However, she promised Zheng Chuyu would not be mistreated and would be married into a good family. Madam Wei didn’t dare argue and obeyed.

Wei Shao kept thinking about the events of the previous night. Xiao Qiao sent medicine again, prompting Wei Shao to visit her room. He learned that Madam Xu had questioned her that morning. Xiao Qiao explained that she didn’t reveal a single word—not even Chun Niang, her maid, knew. Wei Shao was very satisfied and ate with Xiao Qiao, but noticed her wrist seemed to hurt.

Remembering he had squeezed it too hard the night before, he felt a pang of guilt. That night, Wei Shao quietly applied ointment to the bruise on Xiao Qiao’s wrist as she slept, startling her awake. He put down the bottle and promised that nothing like the previous night would ever happen again, then left the room. Xiao Qiao stared blankly at the bottle. Recently, Wei Shao had been feeling irritable.

Wei Qu and others suspected he had quarreled with Xiao Qiao. With the Yongning Canal nearing completion, someone needed to inspect it. Unexpectedly, Wei Shao decided to go himself. From that day, Wei Shao busied himself with various official duties. He barely touched the meals Xiao Qiao sent, as if deliberately avoiding her. Wei Qu and others dared not breathe too loudly. For two or three days, Wei Shao didn’t return.

Xiao Qiao, feeling distressed, told the servants he could come back to rest. But she soon heard he was heading to Panyi to inspect the canal project. At that moment, Madam Wei summoned Xiao Qiao to hold her accountable, claiming Xiao Qiao had interfered and prevented Zheng Chuyu from marrying Wei Shao. Xiao Qiao couldn’t hold back and argued fiercely with Madam Wei, accusing her of never truly caring about Wei Shao.

She sabotaged the wooden box out of favoritism for Zheng Chuyu and resorted to underhanded tricks—all for Zheng Chuyu’s sake. Madam Wei had never considered Wei Shao’s wellbeing and didn’t want him to secure the position of male ruler. Enraged, Madam Wei overturned the table, while Wei Shao stood outside and heard everything.

Although Lady Wei overturned the table, she did not stop Xiao Qiao from finishing what she wanted to say. Xiao Qiao pointed out that Lady Wei had never truly cared about Wei Shao, causing him humiliation. As a result, Wei Shao had no choice but to go inspect the canal repairs to avoid trouble.

Zheng Chuyu was impeccably dressed, yet the shoes Lady Wei gifted to Wei Shao were a size too small—proof that she wasn’t attentive to her son at all, instead directing her care toward Zheng Chuyu. Xiao Qiao sternly demanded that, from now on, Lady Wei no longer concern herself with Wei Shao’s daily needs—she would take full responsibility. Lady Wei, furious, expelled Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao saluted and left with neither arrogance nor humility.

Hidden in the shadows, Wei Shao watched her leaving figure, feelings stirring in his heart. When Wei Shao returned from the execution ground, he saw Xiao Qiao sewing a belt through a screen. He had his clothes scented with incense to avoid the smell of blood offending Xiao Qiao. Unsure when Wei Shao would return, Xiao Qiao had meals prepared in advance and insisted on finishing the belt herself, as part of Wei Shao’s ceremonial travel kit.

Wei Shao specifically accompanied Xiao Qiao for the meal. Xiao Qiao presented the belt to Wei Shao and reminded him to try it on. Wei Shao pretended to be indifferent, but in private he couldn’t wait to try it in front of the mirror—only to be caught by Xiao Qiao. Seeing her knowing smile, Wei Shao felt embarrassed and hurriedly picked up a book to feign reading.

Wei Shao went to see Gongsun Yang, who quickly realized that Wei Shao wanted to ask about how couples should get along. Learning that Xiao Qiao had also come to ask not long ago, Wei Shao promised that he would never harm Xiao Qiao again—but the Qiao clan was still unforgivable. Xiao Tan, Wei Qu, and others were preparing items for Wei Shao’s trip.

However, Wei Shao suddenly assigned Xiao Tan to inspect the canal repairs, while he turned back to dine with Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao could tell that Wei Shao had let go of his resentment. Madam Xu's birthday was coming up. In previous years, it was Lady Wei who organized it, but this year, Wei Shao assigned the task to Xiao Qiao, who gladly accepted. Governor of Bianzhou, Chen Xiang, was furious and coughing incessantly after Bi Zhi defeated Bo Ya.

He reprimanded Xue Tai, but Lady Su Ehuang interceded on Xue Tai’s behalf, pointing out that it was a crucial time for manpower, so Xue Tai was temporarily spared. Su Tai was in poor health, and the couple had no children. Su Ehuang suggested adopting a child, but Chen Xiang, feeling secure with his uncle Chen Pang assisting him, chose not to consider adoption for the time being.

At that moment, Chen Pang arrived, clearly discontented with Su Ehuang—especially over the flower ornament on her forehead. Rumors had circulated that this ornament was an auspicious symbol aiding the ruler of the Central Plains, but given Bianzhou’s repeated misfortunes, Chen Pang believed it might instead be the source of disaster. Su Ehuang did not argue back.

Her younger brother Su Zixin had been waiting outside, concerned about the adoption issue, but Su Ehuang believed Chen Pang was the real concern. Since Chen Pang often suspected her of having the "Peony Fate," she advised keeping him under watch. Meanwhile, Chen Pang also had people watching Su Ehuang, ready to kill her at the first sign of betrayal. Lady Wei was displeased to hear that Xiao Qiao would be organizing the birthday banquet.

She believed she had only just come to understand Madam Xu's preferences after years of effort, and doubted that Xiao Qiao could handle it well. At that moment, Xiao Qiao came to consult Lady Wei about Madam Xu's likes. Lady Wei was reluctant to share, but Xiao Qiao expressed concern that a poorly executed banquet might bring disgrace to Wei Shao.

Left with no choice, Lady Wei handed over her collected notes to Xiao Qiao, reminding her not to let “that person” steal Wei Shao’s limelight. Xiao Tao and the others realized that Lady Wei was referring to Wei Yan, Prefect Wei and Wei Shao’s cousin, a man known for lingering in brothels and entangling with many women. His household was filled with wives and concubines. Hearing this, Xiao Qiao decided that avoiding him would mean fewer problems.

Madam Xu specially sent someone to the city gate to receive Wei Yan, her most favored child. She eagerly awaited his return. Girls across the city chased after Wei Yan in excitement. After paying his respects to all the elders, Wei Yan greeted Wei Shao warmly and expressed his desire to meet Wei Shao’s new wife. Madam Xu gave each of Wei Shao and Wei Yan a jade piece, urging them to keep it safe.

Lady Wei, however, was dissatisfied, thinking that Wei Shao only benefited from Wei Yan’s presence—Madam Xu had given Wei Shao nothing during the years Wei Yan was away. Madam Xu warned Lady Wei not to speak recklessly just because she was in a good mood, and Lady Wei immediately fell silent.

Wei Shao went to see Xiao Qiao, and upon hearing that she was still troubled about what gift to give Madam Xu, he gave her the jade piece and suggested she make it into an ornament for the birthday gift. This helped relieve Xiao Qiao’s worries. Xiao Qiao brought the jade to a jade shop with Xiao Tao and others, hoping to craft it into a bracelet.

However, Wei Yan galloped past the entrance on horseback, startling the shopkeeper with the horse’s neighing. The jade fell to the ground and cracked. To make up for the accident, Wei Yan sketched a new design that perfectly concealed the damage. Later, Wei Yan took out a hairpin he had crafted and attempted to try it on Xiao Qiao, but she refused. Xiao Tao stepped in front to block him, but Wei Yan playfully flicked her nose.

Upon learning that he was indeed Wei Yan, Xiao Tao couldn’t help but sigh at how flamboyant he was. As soon as he returned home, Wei Yan recruited several concubines. One of them, named Lan Yun, became enamored at first sight with the elegant Wei Yan. While Xiao Qiao was organizing gifts for Madam Xu, Wei Yan also came to deliver his.

He greeted her through a screen, and Xiao Qiao politely responded, asking him to leave the gift on the outside shelf. Wei Yan noticed the bracelet that Xiao Qiao had crafted, and before leaving, reminded everyone to conduct a thorough search to avoid mistakes. Yet as the banquet was about to begin, Xiao Zao discovered that the box containing the bracelet was missing. Everyone searched thoroughly but found nothing.

Even the guards at the gate came to apologize, having carefully inspected all who entered without noticing anything amiss. Xiao Zao suggested hiding the incident temporarily, but Xiao Qiao believed that would only compound the mistake. That evening, she told Wei Shao about the missing bracelet, worried that her grandmother would be disappointed. She was willing to take full responsibility. Wei Shao comforted her, saying not to worry—it wasn’t a big deal even if it was lost.

Xiao Qiao didn’t understand, as Wei Shao seemed completely unfazed. At that moment, however, Wei Shao hurried to find Wei Yan, demanding the jade piece to remake the bracelet and rectify Xiao Qiao’s mistake. Although Wei Yan handed it over, he insisted on keeping a record of the favor. Wei Shao ignored him, snatched the jade, and rushed to the jade shop that very night to have a new bracelet crafted.

The next day, Wei Yan took the initiative to help look for the bracelet and indeed found it in a flower pot. He also took the opportunity to see Xiao Qiao’s face. Xiao Qiao gratefully bowed to him, and Wei Yan warned her to be careful and not make another mistake. Xiao Qiao, however, bluntly stated that he had already recognized her identity at the jade shop and was now just pretending. Wei Yan stopped pretending as well and admitted that he had long heard of the stunning beauty of the two Qiao sisters and came to see for himself—what could she do about it?

Wei Yan frankly admitted that he just wanted to observe the demeanor of the two sisters, and even reached out to tease Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao hastily dodged, and Wei Yan left with a smug smile. Xiao Tao suggested telling Wei Shao about the incident, but Chun Niang and Xiao Qiao didn’t know how to bring it up. They feared it would be misunderstood as trying to sow discord between the brothers.

Wei Shao waited all night at the jade shop and returned with the finished bracelet, hoping to surprise Xiao Qiao. However, Xiao Qiao had already found the bracelet. She deliberately told Wei Shao that it was Wei Yan who found it, pointing out that it was also because of Wei Yan that it had been lost in the first place. Xiao Qiao was trying to probe Wei Yan's character.

Wei Shao didn’t take out the bracelet for Xiao Qiao and even felt a bit jealous, realizing he was indeed not as good as Wei Yan at winning over women. That night, Wei Shao went to the Flower Pavilion to look for Wei Yan, but Wei Yan insisted that Wei Shao come upstairs himself. Though Wei Shao had never been to such a place, he eventually went up.

Wei Yan was surrounded by women, which angered Wei Shao, who drove them away. He was also displeased that Wei Yan had arranged to meet him at such a place. Wei Yan, looking serious, pleaded for Wei Shao’s help, claiming that he had recently encountered a woman he admired and hoped for assistance in finding her, believing it might help him settle down.

Wei Yan confessed he had seen a married woman before, which Wei Shao disapproved of, feeling it was wrong to covet another man’s wife. Wei Yan complained that Wei Shao wasn’t truly willing to help, so Wei Shao pressed him for the woman’s appearance. Wei Yan handed him a portrait. Wei Shao was about to leave but said he would definitely find the woman and tell her to stay away from Wei Yan.

Wei Yan playfully blocked Wei Shao and took the jade pendant from his waist, instructing a woman at the Flower Pavilion to deliver it to Xiao Qiao. After everyone left, a guard appeared before Wei Yan, reminding him not to forget his real purpose for returning. Wei Yan denied having genuine feelings for Xiao Qiao, claiming he was acting under the orders of Chen Pang.

Wei Shao gave the portrait to Wei Liang, instructing him to find the woman and tell her to avoid Wei Yan. Suddenly realizing he had lost his jade pendant, Wei Shao ordered a search for it but kept it from Xiao Qiao. Unbeknownst to him, someone had already delivered the pendant to her. A few people went out with the portrait in search of the woman, but it only depicted a side profile holding an orchid.

Wei Liang even mistakenly identified a woman on the street as Xiao Tao. Xiao Tao noticed that Wei Shao’s clothes carried a scent of alcohol mixed with makeup powder, confirming that he had been to a Flower Pavilion tavern. She intended to tell Xiao Qiao but was stopped by Wei Liang, who mistakenly believed the woman in the portrait was Xiao Tao. He warned her to stay away from Wei Yan and asked her to look at the portrait again.

Xiao Tao instantly recognized that it wasn’t her but Xiao Qiao. Wei Liang was relieved—it was better that it wasn’t Xiao Tao—but Wei Qu thought this was even more troublesome, as it meant the woman Wei Yan was interested in was Xiao Qiao. Chun Niang was persuading Xiao Tao to explain things clearly to Wei Shao when Wei Shao arrived with the portrait to look for Xiao Qiao. Xiao Tao and the others gave them space to be alone.

Xiao Qiao was clearly upset. Wei Shao tossed the portrait on the table just as Xiao Qiao tossed the jade pendant beside it. Wei Shao hurried to explain that he hadn’t been accompanied by any women. He also wanted to hear Xiao Qiao’s explanation, believing that although Wei Yan had been abrupt, he wouldn’t act inappropriately toward his brother’s wife.

He planned to take Xiao Qiao to speak face to face with Wei Yan tomorrow and said the matter should not be brought up again. The next day, Wei Shao invited Wei Yan to Madam Xu’s residence and formally introduced Xiao Qiao to him. Wei Yan praised Xiao Qiao's beauty, while Wei Shao instinctively stood in front of Xiao Qiao. Wei Yan made no inappropriate moves and went directly to see Madam Xu.

Later, Wei Shao went to Wei Yan’s residence and met Lan Yun, noticing her resemblance to Xiao Qiao. Wei Yan denied it and accused Wei Shao of seeing Xiao Qiao in every woman. He also warned Wei Shao to be cautious of Xiao Qiao. Wei Shao recounted their past encounters and expressed his unwavering trust in Xiao Qiao. He also revealed that he and Xiao Qiao were already married and hoped Wei Yan would treat the family well.

Wei Shao returned the portrait to Wei Yan, saying he hadn’t found the woman. After Wei Shao left, Wei Yan opened the painting and studied it closely. Lan Yun appeared behind him again with a charming smile. Xiao Tan personally oversaw the completion of the Yongning Canal and ordered the sluice gates to be opened. The river water rushed in, filling the canal. At that time, a drought struck Rong County.

The county governor sent someone to seek help from Wei Shao. However, this year saw poor harvests across the country, and it was difficult to provide aid. There wasn’t much food stored privately either, and buying grain at high prices was challenging. No region had surplus grain, especially since Wei Dian refused to release any, which troubled Wei Shao. Xiao Qiao, aware of this matter, hoped that Wei Shao would share more, as she might be able to help.

But Wei Shao refused to discuss political matters. Xiao Qiao believed that to eliminate the drought in Rong County, the Yongning Canal should be extended southward. This would benefit the people and contribute to the enduring prosperity of Wei. Wei Shao didn’t agree at the time, suspecting that Xiao Qiao wanted to buy more time for Yanzhou. Extending the canal would take time and effort, leaving no opportunity to support Yanzhou.

When Xiao Qiao went to the study to check the Gazetteer of Rong County, Wei Yan also came to find Wei Shao and was displeased to see Xiao Qiao there while Wei Shao was away. Xiao Qiao explained that Wei Shao had allowed her free access to the study. Wei Yan tried to sow discord, reminding Xiao Qiao of the grudge between the two families and suggesting that the Wei family would never truly trust her.

Soon after, Wei Yan approached Wei Shao, expressing willingness to purchase grain on his behalf but also warning him not to trust Xiao Qiao. He claimed that Xiao Qiao had written letters back to Yanzhou, possibly to relay information. But Wei Shao had already read the letters and knew that Xiao Qiao was concerned about the drought in Rong County and was trying to address the issue at its root by selecting drought-resistant crops.

Wei Yan was surprised that Wei Shao had read the letters. Wei Shao explained that although he trusted Xiao Qiao, they were more than husband and wife—he was also the ruler of Wei. While Xiao Qiao was writing congratulatory words for Madam Xu’s birthday banquet, she ran out of ink sticks. Suddenly, Wei Yan arrived, complimenting her calligraphy as graceful as herself. Xiao Qiao quickly stepped back respectfully and made an excuse to fetch an ink stick to leave, but Wei Yan blocked her path.

Wei Yan stopped Xiao Qiao from leaving and deliberately apologized to her for misunderstanding her earlier, but in truth, he was revealing a message: Wei Shao had once read the letter she wrote about going to Yanzhou and even read it out loud to Wei Yan word by word in public, trying to sow discord between the two of them. Xiao Qiao was furious when she learned about this and deliberately wrote a letter claiming she was going to Yanzhou.

Wei Qu quickly brought it to Wei Shao. Wei Shao believed Xiao Qiao wouldn’t write anything unrelated and thought it must be about wheat seeds, so he had it read out loud in public. However, Wei Qu, Wei Liang, and Gongsun Yang all looked at each other in silence, not daring to read it. Wei Shao then took the letter and found it was filled with curses calling him shameless.

Realizing that Xiao Qiao already knew about him reading her letter, Gongsun Yang advised Wei Shao to apologize, but Wei Shao stubbornly insisted he had done nothing wrong and refused to apologize. That night, when Wei Shao returned home, he found Xiao Qiao waiting at the door. Feeling guilty, he quickly rushed into his room to sleep.

But Xiao Qiao pushed the door open and came in, holding a written list detailing the flavors of dishes to be prepared for the birthday banquet. She deliberately made Wei Shao read it word by word to avoid mistakes. Wei Shao pretended to sleep with his head under the covers, but Xiao Qiao shouted his name in anger and threw the scroll at him, scaring him into running out of the room.

Still furious, Xiao Qiao threw the scroll at the door, while Wei Shao, guilty, chose not to argue. News of the incident quickly reached Wei Yan. He was delighted, surprised that Xiao Qiao could now call Wei Shao by name, and ordered someone to keep an eye on the two of them. Wei Shao, fearing another encounter with Xiao Qiao, constantly made excuses to stay busy, avoiding her altogether.

As a result, Gongsun Yang and the others had to stay up late to accompany Wei Shao, suffering bitterly. Wei Duo returned from Panyi with new wheat. After irrigation, the wheat grains were full and the harvest was excellent. Wei Shao was delighted. Gongsun Yang suggested opening a canal to Rong Commandery, which would benefit future generations.

Although he knew Wei Shao feared being restrained by the Qiao family, Gongsun Yang still believed that since they had already formed an alliance with the Qiao family, there would be no conflict in the short term, and building the canal would be a meritorious act. Wei Shao did not agree at that time. That evening, with nowhere to go, Wei Shao went to stay at Wei Yan’s house.

Wei Yan claimed he had always been accompanied by beautiful women and found it quite awkward to now be with a grown man. Wei Shao knew that Wei Yan had revealed the letter-reading incident to Xiao Qiao, but did not blame him and only wanted to ask the reason. Wei Yan explained that his hatred for the Qiao and Wei families had never diminished and he had hoped to use this as a chance to probe Xiao Qiao’s thoughts.

Wei Shao said no more. After Wei Shao fell asleep, Wei Yan’s subordinate came to him and handed him a dagger, suggesting he kill Wei Shao. However, Wei Yan said that while he could tolerate them killing members of the Qiao family, he would not allow anyone to harm members of the Wei family. Wei Yan had grown up in the Wei household and had deep feelings for them.

He had only come to help drive a wedge between the two families’ alliance, not to harm Wei Shao. The subordinate reminded Wei Yan that back then, the Wei family publicly claimed Wei Yan was an illegitimate child, and he had wandered for years while Lady Xu ignored him and refused to let him hold power. In contrast, she was strict with Wei Shao and groomed him as a future ruler.

Wei Yan sternly warned the subordinate not to speak ill of Lady Xu. In the end, Wei Shao agreed to build the canal to Rong Commandery and followed Gongsun Yang’s advice to promote Yang Feng to ease tensions with Xiao Qiao. After the success, he went to Xiao Qiao to take credit and seek favor, but Xiao Qiao already guessed it was Gongsun Yang’s idea.

She was willing to thank Gongsun Yang but couldn’t be bothered with Wei Shao, who left feeling disappointed. In truth, Xiao Qiao had privately written to Lord Qiao again to request wheat seeds as a birthday gift for Lady Xu. Lord Qiao had some concerns, but after persuasion from Qiao Ci and Xiao Qiao’s father, he eventually agreed to provide the seeds. In Bianzhou, Chen Pang was unhappy that Chen Xiang skipped the blessing ceremony for Su Ehuang.

Chen Xiang, however, held Su Ehuang’s hand and said that since his wife was unwell, it was only right for him to stay with her, and unceremoniously drove Chen Pang away. Su Ehuang noticed Chen Xiang was troubled. After questioning, she learned that Wei Shao planned to build a canal to Rong Commandery, and she feared it would be detrimental to Bianzhou in the future.

Su Ehuang proposed returning to congratulate her aunt, Lady Xu, on her birthday and take the opportunity to rekindle the feud between the Qiao and Wei families. The news soon reached Lady Xu, and they were all pleased with Su Ehuang’s return. From the hesitant words of Madam Wei, Xiao Qiao noticed something and, after investigation, discovered that Su Ehuang had grown up here and was once engaged to Wei Shao. Su Ehuang soon arrived by carriage, and Wei Qu and others personally went to welcome her.

Su Ehuang was welcomed at the city gate by Wei Liang and Wei Qu. Accompanying Su Ehuang was her younger brother, Su Zixin. Originally, it was expected that the siblings would be arranged to stay at Lord Wei’s residence, but unexpectedly they were only settled in the courier station. Su Ehuang believed it must have been Xiao Qiao's idea.

Su Ehuang was well-known for wearing peony flower forehead ornaments, and many women in the city began to imitate her by putting on similar ornaments. Wei Liang saw them being sold on the street and deliberately bought one for Xiao Tao. Xiao Tao was already displeased with Su Ehuang’s visit and was even more unwilling to follow her example. In a fit of anger, she stomped on the ornament.

The next day, Su Ehuang came to pay respects to Madam Xu. Madam Xu was discussing birthday banquet matters with Xiao Qiao. When Xiao Qiao saw Su Ehuang request an audience, she tried to excuse herself, but Madam Xu asked her to stay. In front of Su Ehuang, Madam Xu expressed her appreciation and fondness for Xiao Qiao. Su Ehuang, however, deliberately brought up the renowned reputation of Qiao Gui, which displeased Madam Xu.

Su Ehuang then feigned an apology for her slip of the tongue. Meanwhile, Lady Wei was very enthusiastic toward Su Ehuang and privately complained to her about how Xiao Qiao was always opposing her. Su Ehuang had brought grain with her this time, intending it as a birthday gift, but Madam Xu did not accept it, stating that grain was not ordinary goods and required Wei Shao’s approval.

Lady Wei immediately insisted that Wei Shao would certainly accept it and even began to talk about how close Wei Shao once was with Su Ehuang. Madam Xu interrupted Lady Wei and had her send Su Ehuang off. In truth, Madam Xu had some reservations about Su Ehuang. In the past, Su Ehuang was originally engaged to someone in the Wei family, but after the incident in Xindu, she married Chen Xiang of Bianzhou.

Now that she had returned and hinted that her life hadn’t been smooth, Madam Xu felt suspicious—Su Ehuang appeared well-fed, well-dressed, and clearly doing fine. Meanwhile, Lord Qiao, Qiao Yue, also sent Zhang Pu to deliver wheat seeds. Accepting the grain from Su Ehuang would bring disgrace to Yanzhou. Su Ehuang later arranged a private meeting with Wei Shao, during which she spoke of their past relationship and her affection for Xiao Qiao.

She expressed concern that managing the Wei household must be exhausting for Xiao Qiao, and given the long-standing conflict between the Qiao and Wei families, Xiao Qiao should not be so involved in political matters. Su Ehuang emphasized that the grain she brought wasn’t from Bianzhou but purchased with her own funds, hoping Wei Shao wouldn’t feel burdened. However, Wei Shao did not accept the grain.

At that time, Xiao Qiao was also speculating why Su Ehuang would offer grain and worried that it would embarrass Yanzhou. To her surprise, Wei Shao actually refused the grain. Xiao Tao informed Xiao Qiao about the meeting between Wei Shao and Su Ehuang, which made Xiao Qiao unhappy and jealous. That night, when Wei Shao came to Xiao Qiao’s room, she was cold and indifferent.

Seeing the flower ornament on the table, Wei Shao didn’t know it had been a gift from Wei Liang to Xiao Tao and assumed Xiao Qiao liked it. He offered to take her to the street to buy more. Xiao Qiao responded irritably, reminding Wei Shao that since she was a child, she had hated such gaudy things. For a moment, Wei Shao didn’t know how to respond.

As the wheat seeds from the Qiao family entered the city, Su Ehuang realized that Wei Shao’s refusal to accept her grain was a way to keep his distance—and for the sake of Xiao Qiao. She then decided to make a move involving the wheat seeds, initiating her hidden scheme. Wei Yan was in charge of taking over the Qiao family’s wheat seeds.

Su Ehuang pretended to praise Xiao Qiao in front of Wei Shao, expressing sympathy for her, while secretly instructing Su Zixin to contact Zheng Chuyu, who had already married. In private, Zheng Chuyu came to Lady Wei and tearfully recounted being abused by her husband. Both women blamed her unfortunate life on Xiao Qiao.

At Madam Xu’s birthday banquet, Wei Dian took the lead in accusing the Qiao family of delivering processed wheat seeds, using it as an excuse to frame Xiao Qiao. The officials demanded that Xiao Qiao be severely punished. Suddenly, Wei Shao arrived—not only did he believe Xiao Qiao wouldn’t do such a thing, but he also recounted how she had helped him win the hearts of the people since they met.

He admitted that if Xiao Qiao were to kill someone in the Wei family, he might believe it—but harming the common people? That, he could never believe. Wei Shao proposed weighing the wheat seeds to check the weight. Before entering the city, whoever had received and weighed the seeds at that time would have recorded the weight. If the seeds had been processed, the weight would definitely be lighter, thereby revealing where the issue arose. Su Ehuang also voiced her agreement and pointed out that the person who had weighed the seeds back then was Wei Yan.

Wei Dian pressured Wei Shao to give everyone an explanation—one was his wife, the other his cousin. Wei Shao didn’t know how to handle the situation when Madam Xu suddenly fainted. Wei Shao immediately ordered the city gates closed and forbade anyone from leaving. The matter would be investigated further. In private, Madam Xu told Wei Shao the truth about Wei Yan’s identity, helping him understand the root of their grudge with Bianzhou.

At the time, rumors had it that Wei Yan was the child of Madam Xu’s daughter Qingyun and a servant, but in truth, Qingyun had been abducted by Chen Pang of Bianzhou. When she returned, she was already pregnant. Qingyun eventually passed away in grief. To protect her family, Madam Xu claimed the child was illegitimate. Madam Xu also noticed that Wei Yan had changed upon his return—he must have learned the truth.

She hoped Wei Shao would find a way to protect Wei Yan without anyone getting hurt. Wei Shao later sought out Wei Yan, who was playing hide and seek with a group of wine girls. Angrily, Wei Shao drove them away and scolded Wei Yan for not visiting their grandmother or trying to prove his innocence. Wei Yan felt sorrowful, knowing both Wei Shao and Madam Xu suspected him, and realized Madam Xu must be faking illness to protect him.

This only confirmed that they’d rather trust the Qiao family than him. Wei Shao asked directly whether Wei Yan had been to Bianzhou. Wei Yan’s reaction confirmed to Wei Shao that he indeed knew the truth about his origin. Still, Wei Shao emphasized that no matter what, Wei Yan was his elder brother. Anticipating future suspicion, Wei Yan deliberately confessed to being the culprit. Su Ehuang and Su Zixin were in their room, feeling triumphant.

Though their actions were full of flaws, Su Ehuang knew Wei Shao’s nature well—ruthless outwardly but deeply protective of his family. If the case involved someone close to him, he wouldn’t pursue it further. Wei Shao had soldiers watch over Xiao Qiao’s residence day and night. According to Wei law, they could be executed for this. Chun Niang was anxious day and night, but Xiao Tao comforted her, believing it wouldn't come to that.

Xiao Qiao herself was completely unbothered, repeatedly thinking of how Wei Shao had defended her in the grand hall. While Xiao Tao and Chun Niang were organizing the wardrobe, they found a bracelet identical to the one given to Madam Xu. Xiao Qiao suddenly recalled that Wei Shao had visited her before and brought a box identical to the one now found—he hadn’t opened it.

She realized that even if the bracelet was missing, she had nothing to worry about, for Wei Shao had been silently protecting her all along. So she deliberately wrote a family letter and had Wei Qu intercept and deliver it to Wei Shao. Wei Shao was initially angry that Xiao Qiao would send a letter at such a critical time, but upon opening it, he realized it was addressed to him.

Xiao Qiao expressed that regardless of the outcome regarding the wheat seeds, she would never blame Wei Shao. Wei Shao had someone reply, saying they would speak in person tomorrow, and ordered a thorough investigation. Wei Shao personally led the team to weigh the wheat seeds and discovered they were indeed different from what had been collected earlier, clearing Xiao Qiao of suspicion. But this also indicated it was Wei Yan’s doing.

Wei Dian took the lead in demanding punishment for Wei Yan, but Wei Shao believed in Wei Yan’s innocence and insisted the investigation continue. Until the matter was fully resolved, no one was allowed to leave Yu County. To stop Wei Shao from uncovering the truth, Su Zixin sent someone to kill Zheng Chuyu. Xiao Qiao kept waiting for Wei Shao to return, and when they met, both smiled.

Wei Shao felt for Xiao Qiao—anyone else would’ve been eager to clear their name, but she thought only of him. Xiao Qiao said that Wei Shao’s public defense of her proved he believed in her innocence, and she wouldn’t make things difficult for him. As Xiao Qiao saw him off, she accidentally called him “husband,” which delighted Wei Shao. The investigation soon led to Zheng Chuyu. They found out she had been to the granary, but she was already dead.

Wei Shao ordered the investigation to continue. Later, he asked Gongsun Yang how he addressed his master’s wife at home, and learned she was called “Madam. ” Wei Shao planned to change the way he addressed Xiao Qiao accordingly. Su Ehuang used the excuse of taking care of Chen Xiang’s health to try to leave Yu County, but was stopped by Wei Liang at the city gate. No one was allowed to leave until the matter was resolved.

She then went to see Madam Wei. At that time, Madam Wei had just learned of Zheng Chuyu’s death and that she had been murdered. Su Ehuang deliberately frightened her, implying the incident could implicate Wei Shao. Madam Wei, terrified her son might be dragged into the scandal, remembered Madam Xu’s words and feared bringing harm to those close to her.

She stepped forward and publicly admitted that she had ordered Zheng Chuyu to switch the wheat seeds at the granary to get back at Xiao Qiao for always targeting her. The case thus shifted from an official matter to an internal family dispute. Wei Shao had no choice but to hand over his mother to Madam Xu for punishment. All the birthday guests were allowed to leave. Su Ehuang, though unsuccessful, was relieved to walk away unharmed.

On the road, Wei Yan stopped Su Ehuang, warning her not to stir up trouble anymore—his grandmother didn’t want to see her, and he didn’t want Madam Xu to recall painful memories. Su Ehuang sowed discord by reminding him that he wasn’t truly a Wei family member, and that he was only fooling himself by thinking otherwise. From then on, Wei Yan avoided seeing the Wei family.

Wei Shao came to ask him to visit Madam Xu, but Wei Yan refused to meet. Wei Yan’s subordinates further incited him, persuading him to return to Bianzhou. Wei Shao was deeply troubled by the situation with Wei Yan. He knew Wei Yan was the one most hurt, and Madam Xu missed him dearly. Xiao Qiao worried that Chen Pang would eventually reunite with Wei Yan, and if the truth wasn’t clarified, Wei Yan might leave.

She believed her situation was similar to his and might be able to persuade him to see their grandmother. At the same time, Xiao Qiao had been studying irrigation and brought her organized materials for Wei Shao to review. As he leaned over her shoulder to better read the bamboo slips, Xiao Qiao became momentarily lost in his face. When Wei Yan was dancing with the wine girls, he suddenly saw Xiao Qiao. Pushing through the crowd, he approached her.

Xiao Qiao saw the trouble in his heart and, from her own experience, told him that whether someone is family or not isn't defined by blood alone. When she first came to Yu County, no one accepted her as a female lord—they all thought she was just a descendant of the Qiao family. But now, she had gained everyone’s trust and earned their grandmother’s affection.

If she had denied her identity with the Qiao family, Wei Shao would surely despise her. As long as she was honest with Wei Shao, they could trust each other. Xiao Qiao told Wei Yan that their grandmother had fallen ill because of him. Madam Xu had always loved him, and he still cared for her. She told him that what Madam Xu feared most was that he’d grow distant and never visit her again.

Moved by Xiao Qiao’s words, Wei Yan stumbled into Madam Xu’s room, calling for her. Seeing she was fine, he realized Xiao Qiao had tricked him and turned to leave. Madam Xu tearfully called out to him, asking if he really didn’t want to see his grandmother ever again.

Wei Yan noticed that Lady Xu seemed perfectly fine and grew curious about when she had recovered. He blurted out that Xiao Qiao had once said something, but then suddenly realized he had been deceived by her. Just as he was about to leave, Lady Xu called out to stop him and tenderly asked if he no longer wished to see her.

Wei Yan, filled with guilt for having wronged the Wei family, explained that he had learned about his origins from a subordinate of Chen Pang, who told him he was Chen Pang’s son. Lady Xu told Wei Yan the full story: Chen Pang had forcibly taken Qingyun, which resulted in Wei Yan's birth. She had kept it hidden to protect Wei Yan from being entangled in hatred. Lady Xu blamed herself for all the wrongs that had happened.

Wei Yan asked whether she truly saw him as her own grandson. Although Lady Xu had always doted on him more than even Wei Shao, he had never been allowed to touch any political power. Lady Xu candidly admitted it was because he was Chen Pang’s son—giving him power would be akin to handing over the Wei state. She gave him two choices: if he stayed, he would always be her grandson, always loved, but never granted authority.

If he wished to leave, he must kneel and kowtow three times in thanks for her raising him, and then never return. Wei Yan stood up after thinking for a moment, declaring himself nothing more than a stray dog. Wei Yan knelt and kowtowed three times. Lady Xu was in tears as she looked at her dearly beloved grandson, heartbroken and thinking he was leaving.

Unexpectedly, Wei Yan confessed that he knew she hid the truth out of care and that from now on, he wished to be a son of the Wei family because he couldn’t bear to part from her. The two embraced tightly, crying together. Wei Shao, upon hearing this, also felt grateful for Xiao Qiao’s cleverness. Xiao Qiao later went to the ancestral hall to see Lady Wei, who was being punished.

Lady Wei sobbed, feeling despised by Lady Xu and now humiliated by Xiao Qiao, believing this was why Wei Shao hadn’t come to see her. Xiao Qiao told her that Wei Shao had asked her to visit on his behalf, as his status made it inconvenient to come personally. She also reminded Lady Wei that this punishment was merely for show. Once she finished kneeling, everything would return to normal—she would still be family. Lady Wei was overjoyed.

Chen Xiang died suddenly of illness. Chen Pang, supported by many, was appointed Governor of Bianzhou. He ordered Su Ehuang’s arrest and falsely claimed that Chen Xiang had left a dying wish to have Su Ehuang imprisoned in the Jade Tower for life. Meanwhile, Wei Yan privately questioned Chen Pang’s subordinate, Chen Lie, about how his parents met.

Chen Lie falsely claimed they had been in love, but Wei Yan, enraged, drew a dagger to his throat and revealed that his mother had been abducted by Chen Pang, which led to her death. He demanded that Chen Lie return everything and tell Chen Pang that if they met again, they would be enemies. The Wei family’s clan uncle still held a grudge from fourteen years ago.

When he saw Xiao Qiao, he began to speak harshly, but Wei Yan arrived and defended her, saying that Xiao Qiao had been unaware back then and shouldn’t be blamed. Xiao Qiao felt grateful to him. Bianzhou soon received a supply of wheat seeds. Gongsun Yang praised Xiao Qiao for her contributions, but Wei Shao remarked that she had also been planning for the Qiao family’s interests. Gongsun Yang noticed that Wei Shao wasn't truly angry and said no more.

He suggested speeding up the construction of Yong Commandery’s irrigation system. Now that Yang Feng was involved, they should assign one of their own as well. Wei Shao ordered Wei Xiao to summon Zhen Zhi to serve in Yong Commandery. Gongsun Yang worried that Yong and Bianzhou were close, and that Wei Dian was friendly with Yong's Prefect Yuan Wang—both families were discussing marriage ties—so someone more authoritative should be sent to keep things in check.

Wei Shao decided to go himself. Su Zixin reported what he had learned to Su Ehuang. She was heartbroken over Chen Xiang’s death and blamed Chen Pang for her imprisonment. Su Zixin told her it was actually Chen Xiang’s dying wish—he feared her “Peony Fate” would be exploited. Su Ehuang lamented the difference in fate between her and Xiao Qiao and blamed her misfortunes on her background.

She decided not to enter the city and planned to escape, asking Su Zixin to cover for her. But he hesitated, as the city was full of people hunting for her, and women with floral forehead ornaments were being searched. Su Ehuang wiped off her own ornament, shocking Su Zixin—he hadn’t expected it to be so easily removed, assuming it had been innate. Wei Shao planned to head to Yong Commandery and assigned Wei Yan to guard Yu Commandery.

Wei Yan originally wanted to avoid suspicion, but Lady Xu strongly supported the decision. Wei Yan was grateful for the trust and vowed to do his best. Lady Xu said that her current openness with Wei Yan was all thanks to Xiao Qiao and hoped that Wei Shao, on this journey, could also let go of past grudges with the Qiao clan. Hearing that Wei Shao was going to Yu Commandery, Xiao Qiao asked to accompany him.

Wei Shao thought the task of building irrigation was too dangerous for her, but Xiao Qiao argued she could teach the people how to plant wheat. With Wei Shao by her side, she wasn’t afraid. Looking into her hopeful eyes, Wei Shao agreed. Wei Shao told Gongsun Yang that Xiao Qiao would be joining him. Gongsun Yang joked that perhaps she just wanted to travel with Wei Yan.

Wei Shao felt pleased but didn’t admit it, making a half-hearted excuse that maybe she genuinely cared about the people. The next day, Wei Shao waited outside for Xiao Qiao for a long time. When she finally emerged, radiant and graceful, he was dazzled. Even Xiao Tao noticed the way he looked at her had changed. Wei Yan came to see them off and told Wei Shao to take good care of Xiao Qiao.

As he spoke, his eyes subconsciously drifted toward her as she boarded the carriage. On the road, Xiao Qiao opened the window to look at Wei Shao, but he unromantically told her to shut it to avoid the strong wind. Even Xiao Tao thought he lacked any romantic sense. Meanwhile, Wei Liang kept telling Xiao Tao to speak up if she wanted anything to eat or use. Xiao Tao pretended to be annoyed, but was secretly delighted.

During a break, Xiao Qiao intentionally sat next to Wei Shao. He laid his cloak over a rock for her to sit on. Xiao Qiao stole Wei Shao’s rations and found them hard to swallow, but still said they tasted great—because traveling with him made everything better. She deliberately showed her admiration for him and asked him to describe the scenery of Yong Commandery. Wei Shao, pleased, earnestly explained, while Xiao Qiao stared at him dreamily, praising his handsome looks.

She said the grandeur of Yong Commandery couldn't compare to him. Wei Shao even wondered if she had a fever from acting so strangely. Wei Liang approached Xiao Tao with travel notes prepared in advance, telling her that Yong Commandery had delicious food and that if she followed his itinerary, it would surely help improve the relationship between Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao.

Wei Liang suggested they go nearby to enjoy some delicacies from the mountains and sea, saying it would definitely be delicious. He also hoped it would help solidify the relationship between Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao. According to the first step of the travel plan, they should first drink some sour plum soup, then go have the mountain delicacies. In case they ran into problems on the way, they could turn back without issues.

Xiao Tao immediately supported the idea, and with Wei Liang repeatedly assuring its reliability, she persuaded Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao to go along. However, when they followed the map to the sour plum soup location, they found it was actually an outhouse. Wei Liang immediately asked whether the place used to be a sour plum soup shop and had been changed later.

The elderly lady in charge of the area explained that since her grandfather's time, it had always been an outhouse. When they moved on to the next stop on the guide, they found it was just a small puddle—definitely not a hot spring. Wei Liang took them to the seaside, laughing heartily. But to the others, it was nothing special—just a regular sea.

After asking around, Wei Shao learned that Wei Liang had gotten the guide from a friend who had nothing to do with the place, making the whole thing a sham. Wei Liang tried to persuade them to go to Peach Blossom Dock to make it up to them, but Xiao Qiao and the others no longer trusted him and turned back. Meanwhile, Wei Dian and Yuan Wang learned that Wei Shao was leading a group to Rong County.

Wei Dian tried to sow discord, claiming that Wei Shao’s real purpose was to weaken local powers. Yuan Wang was displeased upon hearing this. Wei Dian even planned to secretly send someone to assassinate Wei Shao to prevent him from reaching Rong County. At that time, Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao were resting midway. Wei Shao felt tired and had a headache. Xiao Qiao offered to massage the pressure points on his head to relieve the fatigue.

But as soon as she touched his head, Wei Shao instinctively pulled away. Worried her hands were too cold, Xiao Qiao rubbed them warm and continued the massage, urging Wei Shao to let his guard down. Gradually, Wei Shao began to relax in Xiao Qiao's presence. Xiao Qiao admitted that although she came here to teach planting techniques, her main goal was to help ease Wei Shao’s burdens.

She didn’t want to just stay in her room watching Wei Shao leave early and return late. If there was anything she could do, she was willing to share the responsibility. Without realizing it, Wei Shao fell asleep in Xiao Qiao’s arms. Xiao Qiao spoke softly to herself, revealing her true feelings—she hoped this would bring her closer to Wei Shao and that, over time, he would also draw closer to her.

When Wei Shao woke up early the next morning, he found himself lying asleep in Xiao Qiao’s arms, and his headache had eased significantly. Remembering how peacefully he had slept, he gently placed his cloak over Xiao Qiao and got up to leave. While Wei Shao and the others were resting on the way, they were suddenly ambushed. Xiao Qiao’s carriage was startled and bolted. To protect her, Wei Shao cut the reins and held onto the carriage tightly.

Just as it was about to fall off a cliff, Xiao Qiao jumped out and landed in Wei Shao’s arms. Wei Shao proudly said he could catch her. Suddenly, Xiao Qiao noticed he was injured. What seemed like a minor wound turned out to be more serious—there was poison on the blade. Wei Shao lost consciousness. After detoxifying Wei Shao, his life was no longer in danger, but he couldn’t wake up.

Xiao Qiao believed the attackers were highly trained and not just ordinary bandits, and this must be related to their trip to Rong County. She suspected Wei Dian was behind it. Wei Liang was furious and wanted to kill Wei Dian, but Xiao Qiao stopped him. Without evidence, it would only drive the enemy to desperation and stir up the people, damaging Wei Shao’s reputation.

Xiao Qiao believed the most urgent matter was not to delay the planting of wheat and to quickly reach Rong County. Since they were now in an ungoverned area, it was easier for the enemy to act. Once they entered Rong County, Yuan Wang would not dare act rashly. Wei Qu and others agreed to follow Xiao Qiao’s plan and rushed toward Rong County. Wei Shao woke up to find they had already arrived in Rong County.

Hearing from Wei Qu that everything had been managed by Xiao Qiao, he felt relieved. At that time, Xiao Qiao went alone to meet Yuan Wang and proposed planting winter wheat, but was rejected. Xiao Qiao realized that Yuan Wang wasn’t against the crop itself but against opening the irrigation channels. As soon as she returned, she heard that Wei Shao had woken up and wanted soup. Xiao Qiao ran to him and threw herself into his arms.

Wei Shao immediately felt flustered and pretended his arm hurt to make her step back. Xiao Qiao then told Wei Shao about her probe into Yuan Wang. Wei Shao intended to send troops, but Xiao Qiao stopped him, saying it was better to win hearts than shed blood. She hoped Wei Shao would listen to her. Right now, Yuan Wang only relied on Wei Dian.

If they could sow discord between them, Yuan Wang would have no one to turn to and could be easily controlled. Xiao Qiao invited Yuan Wang to play chess. After losing the first round, she invited him for another. After two rounds, Yuan Wang got up to leave, only to find one of his shoes missing. Xiao Qiao quickly had someone buy a new pair for him.

Wei Dian had waited all day, thinking Xiao Qiao must have talked business with Yuan Wang, but to his surprise, Yuan Wang only said he had played chess with her all day. Naturally suspicious, Wei Dian sent someone to spy on Yuan Wang. Wei Qu deliberately brought a box to Yuan Wang, pretending to drop it so that jewelry spilled all over the ground, which was noticed and reported to Wei Dian.

Wei Dian mistakenly thought Wei Shao was trying to win over Yuan Wang. In reality, Wei Qu only returned a single lost boot to Yuan Wang. Wei Qu reported the day’s events to Xiao Qiao and praised her foresight, noting that they were indeed being watched. Wei Shao complimented Xiao Qiao for becoming more and more like a female ruler. Xiao Qiao noticed something off with Wei Shao and realized he hadn’t bathed in days.

She took the initiative to help him wash, bringing their relationship closer. The next day, Xiao Qiao arranged for Wei Qu and Wei Liang to visit Yuan Wang to propose marriage. She wanted them to show themselves so Yuan Wang could see who was better suited to his daughter. Wei Liang, whose heart was full of Xiao Tao, deliberately pretended to be unimpressive so Yuan Wang would dislike him.

Yuan Wang’s daughter was secretly watching through the door crack and accidentally fell to the ground. Wei Qu rushed over to help her up, and at that moment, the two began to develop feelings for each other. Yuan Wang immediately said he would not agree to the marriage but would consent to switching to winter wheat cultivation. Xiao Qiao had expected this and didn’t mind.

Smiling, she left Yuan Wang’s residence and went straight to the gold shop to have wedding jewelry made. The news quickly reached Wei Dian, who became even more suspicious of Yuan Wang and ordered someone to summon him for a meeting.

After Yuan Wang rejected Xiao Qiao, she deliberately went to the gold and silver jewelry shop to have wedding jewelry made. Very soon, Wei Dian received the news and summoned Yuan Wang to see him late at night. Laying out a set of bridal accessories and speaking expectantly, he showed them to Yuan Wang on purpose and pointed out that Yuan Wang intended to form a marriage alliance with Wei Shao.

Yuan Wang denied it, but Wei Dian did not believe him at all and even revealed that he had people watching Yuan Wang day and night. Yuan Wang was furious, feeling that he had wholeheartedly stood by Wei Dian, only to be doubted by him. The two had a big argument and developed a rift. Wei Qu informed Wei Shao about Yuan Wang visiting Wei Dian’s mansion in the middle of the night.

Xiao Qiao proposed the next step of their plan. Wei Shao wanted to go in person, but Xiao Qiao insisted he stay, saying he had not yet recovered from his injuries. Wei Shao asked Wei Qu if he was already better, but Xiao Qiao raised Wei Shao’s injured arm to show Wei Qu, who didn’t know what to say and simply slipped away. On Yuan Wang’s way back, he was suddenly ambushed.

The attacker used arrows that were exclusive to Wei Dian’s mansion. Earlier, Xiao Qiao had arranged for someone to collect the arrows from the previous assassination, leading Yuan Wang to mistakenly believe Wei Dian was behind it. Wei Liang appeared just in time to pretend to rescue Yuan Wang, causing Yuan Wang to completely align himself with Wei Shao. The commoners soon began receiving wheat seeds.

Upon learning the situation, Wei Dian realized Wei Shao was making a move against him. He immediately ordered his troops to be assembled to hunt down Wei Shao, believing Wei Shao’s forces were few and could be easily defeated. Later, Wei Dian returned to his room, ready to don armor and fight Wei Shao. Unexpectedly, Wei Qu was lying in ambush in the room and killed Wei Dian with a single strike.

Even at the moment of death, Wei Dian couldn’t believe he had died before even starting a rebellion. The next day, Yuan Wang took over Wei Dian’s old troops and pledged his full support to Wei Shao. Yang Feng, accompanied by Wei Xiao, was preparing to go to Rong County to repair the canal and was very glad to be part of such a great construction project. However, he didn’t expect to be working with Zhen Zhi.

As soon as the two met, they began arguing. Yang Feng declared that he couldn’t work with Zhen Zhi and wanted to leave, but was blocked by Wei Xiao and his men. At this moment, Wei Shao arrived and explained that fourteen years ago, the two of them had followed Qiao Gui and Marquis Wei in building the Yongning Canal.

Now, Wei Shao hoped to open the canal in Rong County again, regardless of borders, only for the benefit of the people. He hoped the two could work together, and both immediately agreed to follow his orders. Just then, news arrived: there had been a change in Bianzhou—Chen Xiang was dead. Su Ehuang and her brother were in a carriage, being pursued by two soldiers who were following Xue Tai’s orders to track Su Ehuang.

However, upon seeing that her forehead lacked a peony floral ornament, they did not capture her. Meanwhile, Su Ehuang learned that Chen Pang had become Governor of Bianzhou. Xue Tai was dissatisfied and had already led cavalry in rebellion. Now, Xue Tai was looking for Madam Yulou to protect her. Su Zixin suggested seeking refuge with Xue Tai, but Su Ehuang believed that Xue Tai’s claim of protection was really just a way to protect his own reputation.

As they neared the border of Wushan Kingdom, Su Ehuang once again painted the floral ornament on her forehead. Su Zixin felt they had achieved nothing and had no face to return home. Now that Chen Xiang was dead, they had lost everything, and if questioned back home, they would have nothing to say. He expressed dissatisfaction that Su Ehuang was just a woman who only knew how to paint a flower on her forehead.

Su Ehuang was furious and rebuked Su Zixin for daring to lecture her now that she had lost power. She also reminded Su Zixin that the flower on her forehead was protecting not only herself but also him. Su Zixin had no choice but to keep silent. Xiao Qiao proposed giving Wei Shao a gift. After all, while taking care of him, she had also devised a plan to drive a wedge between Yuan Wang and Wei Dian.

Wei Shao wanted to give her the gold jewelry that had been made, but Xiao Qiao was dissatisfied, thinking it was just a perfunctory gesture. Wei Shao grumbled about how troublesome she was but still agreed to carefully prepare a gift. The next day, Xiao Qiao brought the four Wei brothers along to pick out a gift. However, she wasn’t satisfied with any of them.

Suddenly, Wei Shao thought of giving her five hundred warhorses, believing Xiao Qiao must have gone to such lengths for the sake of Yanzhou. But Xiao Qiao didn’t like it. Wei Shao then suggested weapons. Helpless, Xiao Qiao pretended to like the warhorses. After hearing about it, Xiao Tao went to find Xiao Qiao. She hadn’t expected Wei Shao to be so generous as to give five hundred horses.

Xiao Tao commented that even if a wife’s happiness isn’t known to her husband, her father-in-law would definitely be pleased. Suddenly, Xiao Qiao asked what Wei Liang had given Xiao Tao. Xiao Tao immediately thought of the floral ornament and left, a little dejected. Chun Niang advised Xiao Tao not to rush things—these matters couldn’t be forced. Just then, Xiao Tao saw the incense burner in front of her and got an idea.

Xiao Qiao deliberately sent sweets to Wei Shao, specially infused with fragrance, but Wei Shao only focused on the sweets, disappointing her. Xiao Qiao brought up the topic of stargazing, saying it would help in planning the canal construction. She also volunteered to accompany Wei Shao. Wei Shao agreed at once and told her to wait at the observatory—he would join her after reviewing official documents. Xiao Qiao happily arrived at the observatory.

Though the wind was strong, she refused to wear a cloak, afraid it would cover the outfit she had carefully chosen. When Wei Shao arrived and stared at her for a long time, Xiao Qiao thought he was mesmerized by her beauty and was overjoyed. But unexpectedly, Wei Shao scolded her for not wearing the cloak and insisted on putting it on her.

Xiao Qiao wanted to enjoy some alone time with Wei Shao, but Wei Shao called Yang Feng to join them for stargazing. Yang Feng quickly sensed Xiao Qiao’s intention and explained that the observatory was too small for three people and offered to leave. Before Xiao Qiao could rejoice, Wei Shao asked Yang Feng to stay and explain the meanings of the stars to him, leaving Xiao Qiao pacing in frustration behind them.

Yuan Wang invited Wei Shao to his home. However, Wei Shao was distracted, recalling the sight of Xiao Qiao at the observatory the previous night. Yuan Wang had to call him several times before he snapped back. Yuan Wang revealed that his daughter had fallen for Wei Liang and hoped Wei Shao would help mediate the match. Wei Shao initially thought she liked Wei Qu, but upon learning it was Wei Liang, he agreed to speak with him.

Wei Shao told Xiao Qiao about this. Xiao Qiao believed Wei Liang would definitely oppose the marriage and that there was no need to ask. But the competitive Wei Shao insisted on betting on it—if he lost, he would go with Xiao Qiao to the market to pick lucky items.

When Wei Shao brought it up with Wei Liang, just as he mentioned it, Wei Liang saw Xiao Tao approaching and immediately refused, emphasizing again and again that he only liked one person. Fearing he’d lose the bet, Wei Shao hurriedly tried to persuade Wei Liang to agree. Xiao Qiao also told Xiao Tao that someone had taken a liking to Wei Liang. Xiao Tao was unhappy and left.

Wei Liang quickly chased after her and advised Wei Shao not to force matters of love. Wei Shao accepted his loss and promised to pick lucky items for Xiao Qiao. Wei Liang followed Xiao Tao into her room. Seeing how angry she was, he explained the origin of the small weapons the four family generals carried. Back then, Wei Shao had made the small weapons for them.

Every time they went to battle, they might die, so no matter who went, they would place their symbolic weapons together. It was their way of saying, “Though we may not be born on the same day, month, and year, we hope to die on the same day, month, and year. ” He was willing to give his small weapon to Xiao Tao.

For Wei Liang, the small weapon was the most precious thing. He gave it to Xiao Tao. Xiao Tao, pretending not to know, asked why Wei Liang gave it to her. Wei Liang, shy and unsure how to explain, insisted on giving it to her for safekeeping. Xiao Tao felt happy and left shyly. The three brothers of Wei Qu witnessed the entire scene and dragged Wei Liang outside.

The three of them teased Wei Liang for going back on his word—he had said he wouldn’t marry a Qiao family girl, yet now he liked Xiao Tao. Wei Liang begged for mercy and offered to give his salary to his brothers, but Wei Qu and the others refused to let him off and insisted on throwing him into the water.

When Wei Shao was waiting for Xiao Qiao to go buy ceremonial items, he accidentally saw Xiao Tao returning in a panic with the small weapon he had given to Wei Liang. Just as he was about to ask why it was in Xiao Tao’s hands, Xiao Qiao, already understanding the situation, pulled Wei Shao away. On the street, Xiao Qiao told Wei Shao that Wei Liang liked Xiao Tao.

Only then did Wei Shao come to a realization and expressed that he would not oppose Xiao Tao being with Wei Liang. After all, he had married Xiao Qiao, and now Xiao Tao was part of the Wei family, obediently helping with the canal repairs. Unexpectedly, this comment made Xiao Qiao angry. Xiao Qiao walked ahead angrily.

To give her the ceremonial items, Wei Shao followed her, but he noticed that everything she bought was chosen with help from the four Wei brothers last time. Back then, he thought Xiao Qiao didn’t like such vulgar items and instead gave her 500 warhorses. Seeing Xiao Qiao playing with a hairpin, Wei Shao didn’t believe she would like something so crude and insisted she preferred warhorses. Xiao Qiao, sulking, admitted she didn’t like it.

After returning, Xiao Qiao was upset that Wei Shao didn’t understand romance. Xiao Tao, happily holding the small weapon, told Xiao Qiao that it was crafted by Wei Shao based on the preferences of the four brothers. Xiao Qiao suddenly realized that it wasn’t that Wei Shao didn’t know how to give gifts—it was just that he didn’t know how to give them to her. Perhaps this was her own failure.

At that moment, Wei Shao returned carrying all the gifts Xiao Qiao had bought, only to find out they were chosen for Madam Xu and others. Wei Shao took out the newly bought hairpin and gave it to Xiao Qiao, which finally made her truly happy.

Xiao Qiao felt that Wei Shao had started to understand but was still not quite there, so she summoned Yang Feng overnight and asked him to stay a few more days so she could spend more time with Wei Shao. The next day, when Yang Feng saw Wei Shao and the others off, he deliberately said he forgot his book on water management and hoped Wei Shao could fetch it from Panyi.

Xiao Qiao also mentioned all the good things they had done in Panyi before and wanted to go back and see. Wei Shao agreed, and his gaze toward Xiao Qiao changed. At Bo Cliff, Bi Zhi found out Da Qiao wanted to eat sour plums, so he went alone to pick some. He was injured after encountering Xue Tai’s men and was carried back.

But the first thing he did after waking was to ask whether Da Qiao had eaten the sour plums. Da Qiao was too upset to eat. Urged by Bi Zhi, she finally tasted the plums and tearfully praised their flavor but said she would never eat them again. She only wanted to live a peaceful life with Bi Zhi. If Bi Zhi were an ordinary man, he wouldn’t face such danger. She hoped they could leave together.

But Bi Zhi said he didn’t want to be a commander—he only wanted the approval of Da Qiao’s family, especially Xiao Qiao, so that Da Qiao could be truly happy. Da Qiao immediately decided to publicly announce that Bi Zhi was a son-in-law of the Qiao family and a brother-in-law to the Wei family, so Xue Tai would not dare to attack again.

Xiao Qiao brought snacks to Wei Shao, intending to eat together, but Wei Liang informed Wei Shao that the road ahead was damaged and he needed to check which route to take. Xiao Qiao wanted to spend more time with Wei Shao but was interrupted and felt unhappy. Xiao Tao blamed Wei Liang, and Wei Liang promised he would fix the problem.

But he had no better ideas and instead went to Wei Qu and the others for help, even offering his salary. Wei Qu suggested that if Xiao Qiao went missing, Wei Shao would become worried. This gave Wei Liang an idea. With Wei Qu’s help, they intentionally made Xiao Qiao leave, then quickly informed Wei Shao that Xiao Qiao had gone out for a walk and hadn't returned. They deliberately exaggerated that something dangerous might have happened to her.

Wei Shao grew uneasy and set out to find her. But when they entered the forest, they encountered Wei Duo, who had been following Xiao Qiao. Wei Duo thought Xiao Qiao was with Wei Liang and the others, but Xiao Qiao was nowhere in sight. Wei Shao panicked and rushed off on horseback. Among a crowd, he saw Xiao Qiao squatting there.

Concerned, he pulled her onto the horse without noticing their surroundings, only to learn the people there were refugees, and Xiao Qiao was simply inquiring about their situation. After questioning, Wei Shao learned these people had gone to Liangya and Yanzhou but were driven out. They were now just looking for a place to build temporary shelters.

The land here was unsuitable for living, so Wei Shao suggested they go to Panyi, where they could farm and live like other Wei citizens. Xiao Qiao took the opportunity to praise Wei Shao’s virtue, earning even more admiration from the crowd. That night, Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao set up camp. Wei Shao kept his eyes fixed on Xiao Qiao and refused to let her do anything on her own, insisting she stay by his side at all times.

Xiao Qiao thought he was still mad at her, but Wei Shao domineeringly said that from now on, she was not allowed to leave his side—he didn’t want anyone to worry about her again. Xiao Qiao jokingly said she should apologize to Chun Niang for worrying her. Wei Shao blurted out that the one who worried most wasn’t Chun Niang. When Xiao Qiao asked who it was, Wei Shao shyly turned his head away.

Xiao Qiao couldn’t help but smile at him. Qiao Yue wanted to select beautiful women from various places to be sent for diplomatic marriages. He believed that ever since Xiao Qiao married into the Wei family, relations between the two states had clearly improved, proving this approach was effective. Qiao Ci was very displeased and blamed everything on Zhang Pu. In his anger, he decided to leave this filthy place. Zhang Pu tried to stop him but was scolded by Qiao Yue for making things worse.

Wei Shao found a suitable place for building houses, with convenient access to water and fit for displaced people to live. He sent Wei Duo to Panyi to fetch books on water conservancy. He also suggested that Xiao Qiao help observe the stars to predict the weather and speed up the construction. Xiao Qiao, however, deliberately mentioned Yang Feng and claimed she was not skilled enough, suggesting that Yang Feng could teach Wei Shao astronomy to avoid delaying him.

Wei Shao replied that Xiao Qiao had already delayed him more than once, so one more time wouldn't make a difference. Xiao Qiao couldn't help but smile. That night, as the two observed the stars, they found the sky dark without any stars. Wei Shao finally voiced his inner thoughts: he feared that one day he and Xiao Qiao might stand on opposing sides.

Yesterday, when something happened to Xiao Qiao, he was terrified, afraid that she would vanish like his father and brothers, and even more afraid of losing the peace he had. Xiao Qiao held Wei Shao’s hand and said that even a moment of peace, if cherished, could last generations. Then, Xiao Qiao respectfully saluted him and pledged to follow Wei Shao with the heart of a loyal subject, never to abandon him.

She vowed to help him build water channels to benefit all directions, spread grace, eliminate hatred, and bring peace to the world. Wei Shao held Xiao Qiao’s hand tightly. Qiao Ci, upset, packed up and left home. Madam Qiao had already guessed it and came looking for him, assigning guards to accompany Qiao Ci to Bo’ya.

Qiao Yue soon learned about this and was worried for Qiao Ci, but upon hearing that he left with official documents, he understood that Qiao Ci was visiting relatives. Madam Qiao and Qiao Ci arrived at Bo’ya to see Da Qiao. Seeing the poor condition of Da Qiao’s dwelling, Madam Qiao felt heartache and blamed Da Qiao for not speaking up earlier about her affection for Bi Zhi. If she had, they would have approved.

Seeing the konghou in the room, Madam Qiao realized Bi Zhi truly cared for Da Qiao and was relieved. Da Qiao invited Madam Qiao and Qiao Ci to stay in Bo’ya, and Madam Qiao gladly agreed. Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao returned to Yu Commandery. Wei Yan proposed a welcome banquet for Wei Shao, and Wei Shao immediately agreed. Xiao Qiao reminded him that drinking was not suitable due to his injuries.

Wei Yan noticed Xiao Qiao’s genuine care for Wei Shao. Wei Shao, feeling a bit embarrassed, quickly explained that Xiao Qiao cared more for the people. When Xiao Qiao went to fetch something for Madam Xu, Wei Shao expressed his masculinity, asserting that as a dignified lord, he wouldn’t truly obey Xiao Qiao or lose his manliness. He claimed not to care about romantic entanglements and only occasionally listened to her. Unexpectedly, Xiao Qiao overheard it.

Wei Shao felt awkward and quickly went to see Madam Wei, leaving Xiao Qiao to chat with Madam Xu. Wei Yan followed him out. Wei Shao brought some local specialties for Madam Wei. As soon as she tasted them, they were so sour her eyes teared up, but she didn’t know how to explain and simply said she had decided to accept Xiao Qiao as her daughter-in-law to avoid making things difficult for Wei Shao.

She also realized Wei Shao had fallen in love with Xiao Qiao. Wei Shao casually ate a fruit and found it very sour. They both couldn’t help but laugh. Madam Wei cheerfully claimed that any fruit her son brought was sweet. After returning, Wei Shao asked Xiao Qiao why she sent the sour fruit. Xiao Qiao admitted that both Wei Shao and Madam Wei were straightforward people, but one of them needed to soften in order to get along.

Wei Shao was grateful for Xiao Qiao’s thoughtfulness. Xiao Qiao prepared bath water for Wei Shao and sat in the tub. Thinking about what his mother had said, Wei Shao realized he might truly be in love with Xiao Qiao, unable to extricate himself, with her figure filling his mind. But suddenly, Wei Shao saw the figures of his father and brothers. They seemed angry, blaming him for falling for Xiao Qiao.

Wei Shao was startled awake, remembering how his grandmother had once advised him to let go of the past and get along with Xiao Qiao. But now he doubted whether he could truly do that—whether he could truly let go of his hatred. The next day, Wei Shao announced to his subordinates his wish to start building water channels from Panyi to connect various regions.

Fearing the warlords’ objections, he had already discussed with Xiao Qiao to convene the Luli Assembly to solicit opinions from all sides. If successful, it would benefit the common people. Wei Yan drank with Wei Shao and teased him about not daring to go to brothels, saying it was because he feared Xiao Qiao. Although Wei Shao denied it, he couldn’t hide his affection for her.

Wei Shao suddenly asked Wei Yan if it was okay to fall for Xiao Qiao. Wei Yan objected and gave many reasons, all of which Wei Shao rejected. Wei Yan saw that Wei Shao was in love but also deeply filial, which would only torment himself. That night, Wei Yan called Lan Yun to accompany him and painted The Immortal Lady of Mount Yu, telling its story: a scholar stumbled upon an immortal lady and could never leave again.

In the end, however, he did not paint the lady’s face. Lan Yun asked why, and Wei Yan smiled, saying he had never seen the immortal lady and thus didn’t know how to depict her face. After returning from Wei Yan’s place, Wei Shao seemed troubled. He proposed to stay in the military camp for three days. While Xiao Qiao was helping him undress, she accidentally touched the jade pendant at his waist.

Wei Shao hurriedly covered it, and his demeanor turned cold. He placed the pendant in a wooden box and left. Xiao Qiao stood there, confused. Wei Shao was full of internal conflict about Xiao Qiao and, feeling distressed, gathered Gongsun Yang and others for a discussion, but remained silent. Gongsun Yang couldn’t help urging him to speak. Wei Shao, with no choice, made up some reasons and ordered preparations for the Luli Assembly.

Wei Qu and the others hurriedly agreed and left. With nowhere else to go, Wei Shao suggested visiting Gongsun Yang’s residence, and Gongsun Yang reluctantly agreed. As the four Wei Qu brothers left the yamen, they guessed Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao must have had a quarrel; otherwise, he wouldn’t have scheduled the Luli Assembly a year in advance.

Xiao Qiao knew that Wei Shao moving to the yamen reflected his inner turmoil, but some things he had to figure out himself. The news of Wei Shao moving out soon reached Madam Xu. She immediately recognized that he had fallen in love with Xiao Qiao and was trying to avoid her. At that moment, Xiao Qiao came to visit.

Madam Xu directly arranged for the Luli Assembly to be held at the military parade ground and asked Xiao Qiao to oversee the decorations. Xiao Qiao took the opportunity to suggest that scholars and poets promote the event in advance, letting the whole world know of Wei Shao’s sincerity. Madam Xu readily agreed, saying she wanted to see how long Wei Shao could keep running away. Living alone at the yamen, Wei Shao felt lonely and cold, yet stubbornly claimed it was just fine.

Wei Shao stubbornly insisted that the yamen was more comfortable than home. At that moment, Xiao Tan brought him hot ginger tea to help him sleep better. Wei Shao praised Xiao Tan's increasingly thoughtful arrangements. Xiao Tan smiled slightly without saying much, but in fact, everything had been arranged by Xiao Qiao, and Xiao Tan did her best to take care of Wei Shao as if he were at home.

Xiao Qiao simply wanted to make Wei Shao's stay more comfortable. Whenever Wei Shao felt sleepy, Xiao Tan would bring him cooling oil to refresh him. When Wei Shao’s hands felt cold, Xiao Tan would promptly bring him a hand warmer. She also seemed to know exactly when he was hungry and would bring food prepared by Xiao Qiao in advance.

Only then did Wei Shao realize that everything was prepared by Xiao Qiao, and he couldn’t help but sigh that although he was at the yamen, he was still within her web. Xiao Tan misunderstood, thinking that Wei Shao disliked it and wanted to take everything away, but Wei Shao stopped her. Wei Shao curiously asked what Xiao Qiao had been up to lately. He learned that she was looking for people and busy promoting the Lu Li Assembly.

Wei Shao inquired about Gao Heng, and Xiao Tan had also heard that Gao Heng was a man of great talent renowned throughout the land. Xiao Zao was busy preparing things for Wei Shao and accidentally touched Wei Shao's wooden box. Xiao Qiao immediately reminded Xiao Zao to be careful, afraid that Wei Shao would be displeased.

Suddenly, Xiao Qiao remembered the jade pendant she had come across last time—Wei Shao had reacted strongly and placed it in the wooden box. That jade pendant had once been seen at Su Ehuang’s waist, and Xiao Qiao was worried that things between the two had not yet ended. Xiao Qiao asked Xiao Tan to take back the food and hand warmer she had arranged for Wei Shao. She also added some pastries, claiming they were Wei Shao's favorites.

However, Wei Shao didn’t like having things taken away at all. He noticed the box had been returned by Xiao Qiao. When he opened it and saw the jade pendant inside, he recalled how his elder brother had broken the pendant when hiding him, asking Wei Shao to take good care of Su Ehuang. Wei Shao kept one piece and gave the other to Su Ehuang.

Wei Shao suddenly returned, saying he felt uncomfortable at the yamen and lay his head on Xiao Qiao’s lap, asking her to massage his head. Then he opened the box and showed Xiao Qiao its contents—keepsakes from his father and brother. The jade pendant was his brother’s token. His brother had once been engaged to Su Ehuang and was an undefeated general who died in the Battle of Xindu.

Back then, his brother had asked two things of Wei Shao: first, to take care of Su Ehuang, and second, something he couldn't fulfill. Xiao Qiao had already guessed that the second matter was related to the Qiao family. She tightly embraced Wei Shao. Wei Shao asked for Xiao Qiao’s childhood name and learned it was Manman. The two drew closer tenderly. Bi Zhi stopped seeking news after learning someone from the frontier province had already visited three times.

He didn’t want to keep pleading with Qiao Yue, afraid that Qiao Yue would look down on him in the future. Seeing this, Da Qiao wrote a letter to Xiao Qiao, hoping to get her help, but she couldn't ask directly and could only use the opportunity of attending the Lu Li Assembly. Bi Zhi agreed with this plan.

Wei Yan invited four wine maids into his room to compare them to the beauties in his painting "Goddess of Fishing Mountain. " He found one woman with the surname Yu resembled the painting from a certain angle but did not keep them and had them sent away. Everyone gathered at Madam Xu’s for a meal. Wei Yan praised the hairpins worn by Madam Xu and Madam Wei, but not the one on Xiao Qiao.

When Madam Xu reminded him, Wei Yan explained that Xiao Qiao should be praised by Wei Shao instead, while he was responsible for making Madam Xu and Madam Wei happy. Xiao Qiao was happy with the hairpin sent by Wei Shao and expressed her liking for it. But Wei Shao dismissively claimed it was made casually from leftover materials. Madam Xu saw through Wei Shao's denial and reminded him to express his true feelings sincerely.

There were rumors that a woman with the surname Yu was carrying Wei Yan's flute as a token, claiming to be in a secret relationship with him. Madam Xu summoned Wei Yan and was willing to disregard social status to marry her off, but Wei Yan denied everything, only admitting that she had come to the house to paint and was just an ordinary wine maid. However, Wei Shao discovered that this Yu woman was actually from a respectable family.

Xiao Qiao saw that Wei Yan simply didn’t want to explain, not that he was guilty. She took the initiative to find the Yu woman and, after a brief conversation, uncovered the truth. The woman had disguised herself as a wine maid to meet Wei Yan after falling in love at first sight and, upon picking up his flute, started spreading the rumor that they were already together to force a marriage.

Xiao Qiao not only retrieved the flute but also cleared up the rumors. Wei Yan claimed not to care about reputation—people already thought he was frivolous and wouldn’t mind one more rumor. But Xiao Qiao understood that despite his appearance, Wei Yan would never shirk responsibility for things he had actually done.

Wei Yan immediately felt she was a kindred spirit—unlike Wei Shao and Madam Xu, who favored and protected him even when he was wrong, but didn’t truly understand him. Back home, Wei Yan unconsciously painted Xiao Qiao’s face onto the Goddess in his painting. Lan Yun happened to see it and mistakenly thought that Wei Yan liked her. Gao Heng had always refused to write praise poetry, always claiming a lack of inspiration.

But after visiting the military training ground once, he was suddenly inspired and wrote a poem. Wei Shao had assumed Gao Heng was an elderly man, but was surprised to find he was a young and handsome man. Upon hearing this, Wei Shao immediately wanted to go see him. Gongsun Yang kept reminding Wei Shao to treat Gao Heng with respect. By the time Wei Yan arrived, Gao Heng had already finished writing.

He candidly admitted that his inspiration came from Xiao Qiao and that the poem was about her, not about the Lu Li Assembly. Wei Yan was instantly jealous. Everyone felt the poem should be carved onto the wall so it could be remembered for generations. Even Xiao Qiao praised the poem and offered to go with him to view the cliff carvings. Before Wei Shao could refuse, Xiao Qiao declined herself.

Wei Shao then pointed out that the poem was off-topic and should have praised the Lu Li Assembly. Wei Yan agreed but still believed the poem was fine as it was—Xiao Qiao was indeed a rare woman throughout history. Wei Shao publicly rejected the poem that praised Xiao Qiao, took her hand, and led her away arm-in-arm. Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao rode away on the same horse.

He noticed Xiao Qiao wasn’t wearing the hairpin he had given her and couldn't help but ask. Xiao Qiao deliberately said that since the hairpin was something he had made casually, she assumed he didn’t like it and thus didn’t wear it often. Wei Shao quickly explained that he had made it with care.

Xiao Qiao finally forced Wei Shao to speak his mind. The hairpin was specially crafted with great care for Xiao Qiao. Delighted, she wore it on her head upon returning home. Wei Shao was very happy when he saw it. The two of them talked about Gao Heng. Xiao Qiao showed her admiration for him, which made Wei Shao jealous. He deliberately said that his talent was better than Gao Heng’s.

In fact, he had invited Gao Heng to write promotional poems in order to ease Xiao Qiao’s worries. Xiao Qiao saw through Wei Shao’s jealousy and was even more pleased. Wei Shao was in a bad mood because of the matter with Gao Heng. At that moment, Gao Heng came to request an audience again and brought a poem, hoping Xiao Qiao would play it.

Wei Shao was even more displeased, but since Gao Heng was a rare talent, he specially arranged for someone to send him to the Wei state border under the pretense of appreciating cliff carvings. Coincidentally, Wei Yan saw this. Wei Yan didn’t understand, but he knew that road construction was underway there and that it might be difficult to return within a month. Gongsun Yang, however, was happy, as it happened to solve Wei Shao’s dilemma.

Su Ehuang was gravely ill, but couldn’t find a suitable doctor, especially since she had little money left. At this moment, Xue Tai arrived. Su Ehuang originally thought he had come to arrest her and was prepared to remain trapped in the Jade Pavilion forever. Unexpectedly, Xue Tai had been entrusted with a final mission.

When Chen Xiang was seriously ill, he foresaw that Chen Pang would come to power and that both Xue Tai and Su Ehuang would be endangered. He thus left a final order to Xue Tai, instructing him to protect Su Ehuang. Su Ehuang felt that she had indeed not married the wrong man. Xue Tai told her about the upcoming Luli Assembly in the Wei state. Su Ehuang immediately decided to go.

Xue Tai handed over the military tally of his fifty-thousand-strong force to Su Ehuang and swore eternal loyalty to her. On New Year’s Day, Wei state held a grand ceremony. Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao presided over the sacrificial rites. The people eagerly invited Xiao Qiao to dance with them. Wei Shao nodded in agreement, but during the dance, the men raised their wheat stalks and offered them to Xiao Qiao. She backed away and did not accept them.

Wei Shao stepped into the crowd and collected them one by one, then personally handed them to Xiao Qiao, who then accepted them. As they were leaving, Wei Shao saw the muddy ground and offered to carry Xiao Qiao on his back, declaring he was willing to serve only her. Madam Xu and Madam Wei also prepared festival gifts for Xiao Qiao, and Xiao Qiao thoughtfully prepared gifts for everyone in return, including one for Wei Yan.

As a return gift, Wei Yan sent her a scented brazier, which happened to be something Xiao Qiao liked. From their conversation, Wei Yan realized that Xiao Qiao hadn’t noticed he hadn’t attended the sacrificial ceremony, which left him somewhat disappointed. He wanted to talk to her a bit more, but Xiao Qiao pointed out the way out of the mansion and sent him off. Wei Yan had no choice but to leave.

Although Xiao Tao thought it was good that the Grand Madam had prepared gifts for Xiao Qiao this year, she felt that just spending money wasn't enough to win her heart. If it had been Madam Ding, she would have known what Xiao Qiao liked. Xiao Qiao didn’t mind; she knew it would take more time for everyone to truly accept each other. Madam Ding had watched her grow up and was naturally different.

Later, Xiao Qiao went to the lantern market and found Wei Shao. Although Wei Shao didn’t like such flashy things, he knew Xiao Qiao did. When she suggested releasing a wishing lantern, he didn’t believe in such things but didn’t want to spoil the fun, so he accompanied her in writing wishes and placing them inside the lantern.

As they watched the lantern drift away, Wei Shao asked Xiao Tan to escort Xiao Qiao home first, pretending he still had official duties to attend to. Xiao Qiao believed him. After Xiao Qiao left, Wei Shao immediately ordered his men to retrieve her wishing lantern. But with so many lanterns, he claimed he wanted to understand the people's wishes. In truth, others had long seen through his intent.

Eventually, he found Xiao Qiao’s lantern, only to discover that her wish included only blessings for Yanzhou and for the Qiao family. Wei Shao’s expression changed instantly. Wei Qu also noticed someone was missing. Wei Liang thought it was Qiao Gui, but Wei Qu helplessly revealed it was Wei Shao. After returning, Wei Shao was in a foul mood, speaking with veiled sarcasm and pretending to be angry. Xiao Qiao suggested accompanying him the next day while he was unwell.

But the next morning, Wei Shao woke up to find Xiao Qiao gone. Instead, he overheard a conversation between Xiao Tao and her mother. Chun Niang advised Xiao Tao not to be too forward with her feelings for Wei Liang, as in matters of love, the one who takes the initiative tends to suffer. These words only made Wei Shao angrier, and he stormed off. Xiao Qiao happened to return and saw that he was upset, but didn’t understand why.

Through Wei Liang, Xiao Tao found out that Wei Shao had gone to retrieve the wishing lantern the day before. Xiao Qiao didn’t blame him for being upset and admitted that she had handled things poorly. She prepared a sumptuous dinner to apologize, but Wei Shao didn’t return. Helpless, Xiao Qiao drank a bottle of wine. When Wei Shao came back, he found Xiao Qiao already drunk.

He scolded the maidservants for not taking good care of her and personally looked after her. Drunk, Xiao Qiao tearfully begged for Wei Shao’s forgiveness and honestly shared her feelings. What she had written wasn't a wish, but a regret—Wei Shao was so close, within her reach, yet her family was far away in a distant land. All she could do was offer distant blessings. That was why she had only written about her family and not mentioned Wei Shao. Wei Shao helped Xiao Qiao lie down, gazed intently at her face, and couldn’t help but lean in to kiss her.

Wei Shao stared intently at Xiao Qiao for a long time. After Xiao Qiao nodded and gave him a kiss, she suddenly burst out laughing. Only then did Wei Shao realize that Xiao Qiao hadn’t fallen asleep. Xiao Qiao pressed him—since he kissed her, did it mean he was no longer angry? Wei Shao, a bit shy, lay beside her. Xiao Qiao took the initiative to kiss him, and the two embraced sweetly.

Early the next morning, when Wei Shao woke up, he found himself sitting at the edge of the bed, with Xiao Qiao resting on his arm. Both of their clothes were intact. Remembering Xiao Qiao’s kiss from the day before, Wei Shao suddenly suspected it might have been a dream.

At that moment, Xiao Qiao woke up and, realizing how uncomposed she looked—especially when she saw the scratch marks on Wei Shao’s neck—rushed over to check if she had scratched him. But Wei Shao dodged and reminded Xiao Qiao not to drink again. Xiao Qiao stood there in a daze, reflecting on how she had been drunk before, but never scratched anyone. The four Wei brothers noticed the scratch marks on Wei Shao’s neck. Wei Liang curiously asked about them.

Wei Shao vaguely brushed it off as having been scratched by a cat. But Wei Liang didn’t believe him—he’d never seen a cat in the residence. Wei Qu curled his lip, thinking this brother was too dim-witted. Xiao Tao wanted to give Wei Liang a gift, but thought a bronze mirror was too simple. She hoped Xiao Qiao could help make a better one. Xiao Qiao couldn’t help but laugh and agreed to help.

That evening, when Wei Shao returned, he found that Xiao Qiao had gone out shopping. But on her table, he saw a box containing a bronze mirror, and he couldn’t help feeling delighted. Just then, Xiao Qiao returned and suggested inviting Da Qiao over. Wei Shao readily agreed but mentioned that since Yanzhou didn’t need to participate, there was no need to invite them. Xiao Qiao agreed.

Wei Shao hoped Xiao Qiao would mention the gift herself and asked if she had something to say, but she said nothing. Wei Shao kept staring at the box, constantly reminding Xiao Qiao if she had forgotten something. Seeing she had no intention of presenting the gift, Wei Shao felt disappointed. Madam Ding planned to accompany Da Qiao and Bi Zhi to the Luli Assembly and would visit Xiao Qiao on the way.

Qiao Ci was to be sent back but was unwilling. Eventually, he asked Bi Zhi for a fine steed, and Bi Zhi agreed immediately. The next day, Wei Shao showed off his heart-protecting mirror to his brothers, claiming Xiao Qiao had gifted it to him and that it was inscribed with scriptures. Wei Liang immediately took out his own heart-protecting mirror, which matched Wei Shao’s description. Wei Shao felt awkward and hurriedly explained he had remembered it wrong.

He said the one Xiao Qiao gave him was inlaid with white jade and carved with mandarin ducks. Everyone praised that Xiao Qiao’s gift must indeed be unique. Wei Shao deliberately brought up the relationship between Bi Zhi and Da Qiao to Xiao Qiao, believing Da Qiao would be considerate and surely gift Bi Zhi something for protection. But Xiao Qiao didn’t catch the implication.

Wei Shao pretended to have chest pains, claiming he was injured during a scuffle with Wei Liang because Wei Liang had a heart-protecting mirror and he didn’t. Xiao Qiao blamed Wei Liang for being too rough and removed some aggravating foods from their meals to help Wei Shao’s injury. Wei Liang and Wei Shao walked together on the street, and Wei Liang intentionally let his heart-protecting mirror show, provoking Wei Shao’s jealousy and dissatisfaction.

Wei Qu reminded Wei Liang that if this issue wasn’t handled well, he might be exiled to a harsh and remote region. Wei Liang quickly sought out Xiao Tao in private and told her about it. Xiao Tao and Xiao Qiao visited every shop but couldn’t find a heart-protecting mirror inlaid with gold and jade. Xiao Qiao decided to make one herself—after all, if Wei Shao said it, she had to deliver.

Qiao Ci pretended to return to Yanzhou but actually rode swiftly on his fine steed to Yu County and instructed his attendants to report that he was waiting in Yanzhou. Meanwhile, Xiao Qiao finished making the heart-protecting mirror and gave it to Wei Shao. Just as he was overjoyed, news arrived that Su Ehuang was waiting at the courier station to see him.

Xiao Qiao originally wanted to go with him, but Wei Shao declined, saying she had been too tired lately and should rest more. To recover quickly and meet Wei Shao, Su Ehuang deliberately took strong medicine that caused her voice to become hoarse and broke the jade pendant left to her by Wei Shao’s older brother, Wei Bogong.

She falsely claimed to Wei Shao that Qiao Yue had been sending Qiao Ci everywhere to capture her and deliver her to Wei Shao in order to secure Xiao Qiao’s status. She added that Qiao Yue was recruiting beauties from all over to win over regional governors, and that her jade pendant was broken during her escape. Her voice was poisoned hoarse so she couldn’t be exploited by Qiao Yue. Wei Shao believed her but did not blame Xiao Qiao.

However, he withdrew the invitation to Bo Ya. When Xiao Qiao found out, she didn’t plead her case. Instead, she stood by Wei Shao’s side and offered to apologize to Su Ehuang. To help Wei Shao keep his promise to take care of Su Ehuang, she even prepared some gifts. Wei Shao embraced Xiao Qiao, unwilling to let her apologize.

These things weren’t her fault, and at that moment, all he wished was for Xiao Qiao to become a wife of the Wei family. In Liangya, while Liu Yan was practicing swordsmanship, Liu Shan came to persuade him to spend time winning over the crown prince instead of always hiding away to train. After all, Liu Yan was the rightful heir, and the princess consort’s provocations would ultimately be futile.

Liu Shan then informed him about the Luli Assembly hosted by Wei and hoped Liu Yan would attend to secure his position as heir once more. But Liu Yan worried that if he went, it would only embolden the princess consort. Liu Shan warned him that his position was already unstable. At that moment, the King of Liangya summoned Liu Yan and proposed bringing his younger son Liu Qi to Wei.

The princess consort stirred up trouble, criticizing Liu Yan for offending Wei first and forcing the aged king to go himself. Together with the princess consort, the king scolded Liu Yan and threatened to strip him of his title. Enraged, Liu Yan killed both the king and the princess consort. Liu Shan happened to witness the scene and blamed Liu Yan for bringing such a disgrace upon himself.

Unexpectedly, Liu Yan turned hostile and warned Liu Shan that he was no longer his uncle, but merely a servant of the new King of Liangya. Otherwise, he could join the late king in death. With that, Liu Yan, his face stained with blood, sat upon the throne.

Liu Shan was frightened by Liu Yan and immediately knelt down, addressing him as king. Meanwhile, Qiao Ci had also arrived outside the city and sent a message asking Xiao Qiao to meet him. Xiao Qiao originally wanted to go with Wei Shao, but she feared that Wei Shao, who was still angry, might not accept Qiao Ci.

Xiao Qiao decided to go alone, feeling it was unfair that the mistake made by Qiao Yue had to be borne by Qiao Ci and Da Qiao. As Xiao Qiao was about to leave, she encountered Wei Yan. Seeing her heading out alone, Wei Yan took the initiative to ask and offered to accompany her to receive Qiao Ci. Xiao Qiao felt it would be good to have someone with her, so she agreed.

At that moment, Wei Shao brought some supplements to Su Ehuang and pleaded with her not to tell Madam Xu and Madam Wei about the incident, as Xiao Qiao was actually unaware of it. He feared the two ladies might become displeased with Xiao Qiao. Su Ehuang immediately agreed but also requested to participate in the Luli Tournament, hoping to avoid being bullied in the future.

Su Zixin promptly declared that he would win the tournament to bring glory to Su Ehuang. Wei Shao had no choice but to agree and let Su Zixin represent the State of Wuwei, Su Ehuang's maternal homeland. When Wei Shao returned, Wei Liang handed him Su Ehuang's jade pendant, which had been repaired by Xiao Qiao. Wei Shao inquired about Xiao Qiao and learned that she had gone to meet Qiao Ci.

He was displeased that no one had informed him of Qiao Ci’s arrival. Wei Liang explained that Xiao Qiao had likely kept it from him to avoid his anger. At the pavilion outside the city, Xiao Qiao met Qiao Ci. The siblings shed tears upon seeing each other. Qiao Ci mistakenly assumed Wei Yan was Wei Shao and addressed him as brother-in-law. Xiao Qiao hurriedly explained, which stirred something in Wei Yan’s heart.

Xiao Qiao felt distressed that Qiao Ci had come alone. Qiao Ci complained about Qiao Yue, who had been chasing beauties and causing chaos, prompting him to leave Yanzhou. Xiao Qiao pressed him about whether he had pursued Lady Yulou, but Qiao Ci was unaware of such a thing. Xiao Qiao did not press further and merely reminded Qiao Ci not to mention it after returning. Liu Yan succeeded the position of King of Liangya.

Seeing Liu Qi crying and clamoring for his mother, he publicly ordered Liu Qi and the Third Prince to be buried alive with the deceased, leaving everyone too afraid to speak out. Liu Yan also planned to personally attend the Luli Tournament in Wei. Xiao Qiao introduced Qiao Ci to Wei Yan.

Wei Yan was surprised that Qiao Ci had mistaken him for his brother-in-law and scolded Qiao Ci for not training enough or reading sufficiently, emphasizing that one should explore all kinds of literature. Seeing Qiao Ci’s nervousness, Xiao Qiao quickly reminded him to offer tea to Wei Shao. Wei Shao criticized Qiao Ci for not even holding a teacup properly.

Helpless, Xiao Qiao proposed to take Qiao Ci to the post house to settle down, and Wei Shao did not object. Wei Shao then brought the jade pendant to Su Ehuang and mentioned that Qiao Ci had arrived in Yu Prefecture. Su Ehuang and Su Zixin immediately panicked, but Su Ehuang quickly took the initiative, saying that even if Qiao Ci saw her, he would never admit to the pursuit incident.

At that moment, Xiao Qiao also visited Su Ehuang and stated that she had already scolded Qiao Ci, hoping he could apologize to Su Ehuang in person. Su Ehuang reluctantly agreed to meet and expressed willingness to let bygones be bygones. Just then, a man was brought in to apologize to Su Ehuang. Su Ehuang graciously forgave him, only to find that he was not Qiao Ci.

She then lied, claiming that she had been too panicked when allegedly abducted by Qiao Ci and couldn’t clearly identify him—only recognizing his voice. Xiao Qiao questioned Su Ehuang about whether Qiao Ci’s voice was deep or not. Afraid of continuing the lie, Su Ehuang became hesitant even after meeting the real Qiao Ci. Wei Shao, being extremely astute, immediately realized that Su Ehuang was lying. When Wei Shao came out, he saw Xiao Qiao standing at the door.

Instead of blaming her, he just wanted to resolve the knot in her heart. He blamed himself for being too rash and ordered someone to take Qiao Ci to the martial grounds to watch some training. Meanwhile, Wei Yan took Qiao Ci to Luozhong Alley, a place known for entertainment. Qiao Ci was too embarrassed to stay and quickly fled. When Xiao Qiao heard about it, she punished Qiao Ci by making him stand outside holding a basin of water.

Wei Shao personally brought Qiao Ci to apologize and explained the situation. He argued that drinking in such a place occasionally was harmless, but Xiao Qiao asked whether Wei Shao had ever gone there himself. Wei Shao pretended to get angry and told Qiao Ci to kneel and apologize. Qiao Ci, understanding the hint, apologized playfully and was forgiven by Xiao Qiao. Wei Shao presented an invitation card.

Though it was too late to send one to Bi Zhi, Qiao Ci could attend in his place. Wei Shao promised to supervise Qiao Ci’s daily training. Finally, Xiao Qiao smiled. Da Qiao received a letter and, realizing she couldn’t go to Yu Prefecture, prepared to escort her mother back to Kang Prefecture. She dared not reveal the true reason. Ever since meeting Wei Shao, Qiao Ci felt that Wei Shao did not treat Xiao Qiao well.

He had come to visit out of longing for her, but instead, Xiao Qiao had to worry about him, which made him feel guilty. Xiao Qiao explained on Wei Shao's behalf, saying he was actually a good person who treated her very well and would wholeheartedly care for anyone he trusted. He also cared deeply for Qiao Ci. Nobles from all kingdoms arrived in Yu Prefecture. Xiao Qiao met Liu Yan, now King of Liangya.

As the Luli Tournament began, Liu Yan, seated below, kept glancing up at Xiao Qiao. Su Ehuang also arrived. Liu Shan told Liu Yan that there was a rumor: whoever possessed Su Ehuang and the peony on her forehead would rule the world. Liu Yan didn’t believe it, thinking that if it were true, Chen Xiang wouldn’t have died. However, he still praised Su Ehuang's capabilities—otherwise, she wouldn't be here.

As warriors from various states began to compete, the streets buzzed with gambling on which country would win. No one wanted to bet on Qiao Ci, thinking he was just a young man visiting relatives with no real skills. Hearing this, Xiao Tao was displeased and wanted to bet but found she had no money. Wei Liang happened to pass by and used his own money to bet on Qiao Ci.

As Qiao Ci took the field, Xiao Qiao was extremely nervous. Wei Shao noticed and held her hand. Xiao Qiao reminded Qiao Ci to win with honor and lose with grace. This round was Qiao Ci versus Su Zixin.

Su Zixin fought Qiao Ci with ruthless moves, not only injuring him but also breaking his weapon. Just when everyone thought Qiao Ci was sure to lose, Wei Shao stepped forward, claiming the weapons they provided were subpar. He then brought out his late brother’s spear and gave it to Qiao Ci. When Su Ehuang saw the weapon of her deceased lover, her eyes welled up with tears, but she quickly composed herself and forced a faint smile.

With this spear, Qiao Ci defeated Su Zixin. Su Zixin suddenly launched a hidden weapon at Qiao Ci, but fortunately, Qiao Ci blocked it. Wei Shao punished Su Zixin by forbidding him from participating in the upcoming matches. Witnessing this, Su Ehuang slapped Su Zixin in public and blamed herself for poor discipline.

She also announced that her purpose in coming was to find a new master for Xue Tai and took out the military tally Xue Tai had entrusted to her. This piqued Liu Yan’s interest. Wei Yan and Wei Shao visited the injured Qiao Ci together, showing genuine concern in their conversation. From Xiao Qiao, Qiao Ci learned that the spear he used was the most treasured relic of Wei Shao’s elder brother.

He couldn’t help but praise his brother-in-law, which made Xiao Qiao happy to hear Wei Shao being complimented. At the subsequent banquet, Wei Shao attended with Xiao Qiao and had her distribute the hunted food, effectively announcing her importance, which surprised Xiao Qiao. Gongsun Yang publicly presented a topographical map, proposing the construction of a canal to benefit the people.

However, many, incited by Liu Yan, misunderstood and thought the Wei State was planning to station troops in various regions, thus opposing the idea. Xiao Qiao, speaking as both a Wei family wife and a Qiao family daughter, explained her grandfather's resolve to build a canal despite public misunderstanding at the time. Through house-to-house visits and leading by example, prosperity was eventually achieved. Still, the crowd believed Xiao Qiao was only defending her husband.

Qiao Ci then stepped forward, speaking as the heir of Yanzhou, and highlighted the benefits of canal construction. He praised Wei Shao for setting aside his hatred for the sake of the people and marrying Xiao Qiao, calling it an act of great righteousness. Convinced by Qiao Ci’s words, the crowd agreed to the canal project and showed respect to Wei Shao.

Wei Shao’s appreciation for Qiao Ci was evident, but Liu Yan still opposed and publicly vowed never to join. After the meeting, Wei Shao thanked Qiao Ci and expressed regret over his initial harshness. However, Qiao Ci continuously praised Wei Shao and recounted all the good he had done for Xiao Qiao. Wei Shao was pleased but felt Xiao Qiao had exaggerated a bit in front of Qiao Ci.

Qiao Ci truthfully shared that everything he said today had been taught by Xiao Qiao, and he had memorized it for a long time, fearing he might say something wrong. Wei Shao felt even more affection for Xiao Qiao. Wei Shao sought out Xiao Qiao and thanked her for her trust, admitting his own narrow-mindedness in the beginning.

He said that when they first got married, both hid their true feelings, but at some point, he no longer wanted to keep secrets from her and hoped they could become a true married couple. Xiao Qiao suddenly held his hand and asked, “After all we’ve been through, aren’t we already truly married? ” Moved, Wei Shao pulled Xiao Qiao into his arms.

Su Zixin discovered that Su Yan had killed their father to seize power and advised Su Ehuang not to associate with such a person. Even if she must marry, she should choose a good man. Su Ehuang believed that the hardest and easiest thing to control was the human heart; as long as one grasped a person’s needs, they could be turned into a puppet.

She then deliberately had Su Zixin spread the rumor that Liu Yan had murdered his own family. During Liu Yan and Zhao Kai’s banquet aimed at winning over regional lords, not a single guest arrived—only Su Ehuang came alone. Liu Shan believed it was because people thought Liu Yan had killed his father and brother. However, Liu Yan thought they were avoiding him for fear of offending Wei Shao after their fallout.

Su Ehuang, speaking from Liu Yan’s perspective, expressed full understanding of his actions and shared her own similar experiences. She understood that without value, one becomes worthless. Liu Yan sensed she had an ulterior motive and asked directly. Su Ehuang admitted she only wanted to find a good partner to plan grand affairs with. Liu Yan, however, merely invited her to enjoy the scenery at Liangya. Su Ehuang stood to leave, asserting her determination not to seek refuge at Liangya.

As she departed, Liu Shan warned Liu Yan not to trust her, saying she just wanted good soil for the peony on her forehead. Liu Yan understood Su Ehuang well. The reason he talked so much with her was because she reminded him of Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao had chosen Wei Shao over him because, though she was raised by Madam Ding, everyone treated her as their own, and she was willing to sacrifice everything for her family.

Unlike him and Su Ehuang, who were always used as pawns—mere ants. Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao saw Qiao Ci off. Qiao Ci entrusted Xiao Qiao to Wei Shao and warned him that if he ever wronged Xiao Qiao, he would stand up for his sister. Wei Shao, in turn, warned Qiao Ci never to go to places like Luozhongfang again.

Xiao Qiao reminded Qiao Ci to leave more supplies for her sister when passing through Liangya, knowing Da Qiao and Bi Zhi were not living well. Watching Qiao Ci’s departing figure, Xiao Qiao felt reluctant to part. Wei Shao then rode his horse with Xiao Qiao to catch up and escort Qiao Ci further. Wei Yan, witnessing this, smiled in relief. Su Ehuang, fearing others would covet her now that she had shown her hand, asked Wei Shao if she could temporarily take refuge in the Wei State.

Wei Shao saw that Su Ehuang requested to stay. Remembering his elder brother's advice to take care of Su Ehuang, he found it inconvenient to drive her away and could only tacitly agree. However, he always felt that something was off, though he couldn’t explain it. So, he told Xiao Qiao, who had the same feeling.

Su Zixin used some methods to find out from the maids at Wei Shao’s residence that Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao had not consummated their marriage yet. Officially, it was said to be out of mourning for Qiao Gui, but in Su Ehuang and Su Zixin’s eyes, no man was free from lust. If they hadn’t consummated by now, it might be due to a lack of affection.

Because of this, Su Ehuang believed her opportunity had come and specially invited Wei Shao to her residence. Su Ehuang used the excuse of helping Xiao Qiao collect some books on waterworks to get closer to Wei Shao. But Wei Shao quickly evaded her and only took the books back, saying he would study them with Xiao Qiao. When Xiao Qiao saw the books Wei Shao brought back, she felt vaguely uneasy.

Gao Heng returned from Yunzhong Commandery and specially brought a rubbing of the inscriptions on the Mo Cliff Stone to give to Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao liked it very much and hoped to visit the site in person someday. Gao Heng was happy to accompany her. At the same time, Wei Shao also learned that Gao Heng had returned and immediately instructed that Xiao Qiao should not be informed.

Unexpectedly, Wei Liang mentioned that Gao Heng had visited Xiao Qiao and given her the rubbing. Wei Shao immediately sent people to Yunzhong Commandery to uproot the entire Mo Cliff Stone and bring it back as a gift for Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao was stunned at the sight. When Gao Heng heard about it, he rushed over, believing it was a wasteful act. Such a stone, integrated with the mountain, would definitely be damaged when moved.

But Wei Shao insisted it was intact. Gao Heng quickly pointed out the missing part. Xiao Qiao immediately stopped Wei Shao from arguing further, entrusted the restoration to Gao Heng, and offered to bring meals to him every day. Wei Shao, jealous and wanting to stop her, was driven away by Xiao Qiao. Feeling frustrated, Wei Shao went to drink with Wei Yan and complained about the matter with Gao Heng.

Wei Yan blamed him for not confessing his feelings to Xiao Qiao earlier. Wei Shao admitted he had already expressed his feelings. Wei Yan felt somewhat bitter inside but forced a smile and agreed to help send Gao Heng away. Wei Yan believed that Gao Heng only admired Xiao Qiao’s talents, but if someone else also admired her and tried to intervene forcefully, what could he do?

Wei Yan also knew about Su Ehuang and advised Xiao Qiao to send her away. If she had truly promised to take care of her, it would be enough to send greetings and gifts during festivals, but there was no need for her to stay in Yu Commandery. Wei Yan went to find Gao Heng and was surprised to learn that Gao Heng would leave after completing the stone restoration.

Gao Heng believed that there were many famous mountains and rivers and that he could not end his life here. His carefree attitude moved Wei Yan, who began to feel that he too should not cling to old feelings. After returning, Wei Yan wanted to burn a portrait of Xiao Qiao, but ultimately couldn’t bring himself to do it. His love for Xiao Qiao was unattainable and unspeakable.

He could only hide it deep in his heart, which brought him great pain, and he ended up drinking excessively. Xiao Qiao knew that Wei Shao was upset and deliberately lit lanterns in the courtyard to welcome him back. She took the initiative to express her affection, saying that they could speak openly and shared similar interests. In her heart, Wei Shao was her only confidant.

Gao Heng was a talented man, and she treated him with respect only because she hoped he could serve Wei Shao. But if Wei Shao was unhappy, Gao Heng could be sent away. Wei Shao understood Xiao Qiao’s sincere intentions and felt he had been narrow-minded. He no longer wished to pursue the matter. But Xiao Qiao noticed that Wei Shao still held some resentment and didn’t want him to keep his sour feelings bottled up.

Even if Wei Shao said he didn’t mind, she should still consider his feelings more. Only then did Wei Shao show a genuine smile and follow Xiao Qiao’s arrangements. The two sat side by side on the steps. Wei Shao leaned on Xiao Qiao’s shoulder, and they watched the bright moon together. Suddenly, Wei Shao said he wanted to eat mooncakes.

That night, Su Ehuang sent another message asking to meet Wei Shao, but he recalled Wei Yan’s words and immediately refused. Instead, he had some money and valuables prepared and visited Su Ehuang the next day. He hoped she would leave and return to Wushan Kingdom, where she had family to take care of her. With this money, she would have support, and the Wushan Kingdom would surely value her more.

Su Ehuang was unwilling to leave and pretended to have a recurrence of her chronic headache. Her maid mentioned that when Wei Shao was young and ill, Su Ehuang had cared for him day and night, which led to her condition. Naturally, Wei Shao could not continue to drive her away. Gao Heng soon completed the restoration of the stone inscription.

When Wei Shao came to visit, he was surprised to find that Gao Heng had a very fit body with well-defined muscles. He couldn’t help but glance at his own body and felt somewhat inferior, which made him even more eager for Gao Heng to leave. Gao Heng also mentioned his impending departure and said he planned to personally escort the Mo Cliff Stone back.

Wei Shao didn’t believe that Gao Heng had never practiced martial arts, yet had such a good physique. After returning, Wei Shao began lifting heavy objects to train, hoping to develop muscles like Gao Heng’s. Even at the yamen, Wei Shao couldn’t stop lifting weights. Coincidentally, Gao Heng came to bid farewell. Wei Shao felt embarrassed and tried to control his breathing, then asked when Gao Heng would return.

Upon hearing that Gao Heng would never return, Wei Shao couldn’t hide his joy and immediately said he would personally escort him the next day. Seeing that Wei Shao’s lifting technique was wrong, Gao Heng came back to teach him the correct method. The next day, Gao Heng left. Xiao Qiao, Wei Shao, and Wei Yan all came to see him off.

Su Ehuang also showed up uninvited to bid farewell, bringing some gifts and humbly saying they were not as well-prepared as what Wei Shao had arranged. But Wei Shao gave all the credit to Xiao Qiao, saying everything was prepared by her. After sending off Gao Heng, Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao left.

Wei Yan inadvertently saw a handkerchief Xiao Qiao had dropped and carefully picked it up, only to be seen by Su Ehuang, who also realized that Wei Yan liked Xiao Qiao. After returning, Xiao Qiao found that her handkerchief was missing and searched anxiously. Wei Shao didn’t mind and promised to buy her a new one. He then took her arm and walked back with her.

Liu Yan of Liangya Kingdom was unwilling to allow a canal to be built through his land. Wei Liang suggested taking a detour through Bianzhou, which would be better than going through Liangya Kingdom. But Wei Qu reminded him that Bianzhou had a grudge against the Wei Kingdom. Wei Yan once again drank too much at home and suddenly saw Xiao Qiao appear before him.

Wei Yan mistakenly thought Lan Yun was Xiao Qiao. Hearing Lan Yun's confession, he felt even more incredulous. Believing himself to be someone who truly understood Xiao Qiao, he saw her as a phoenix in the sky, someone who should not be confined like this. If the world could be unified, perhaps Xiao Qiao could be truly free. If Xiao Qiao truly longed for such a life, he would do everything in his power to help her.

Listening to Wei Yan's soliloquy, Lan Yun realized these words were not meant for her. She rushed to the portrait and looked closely, only then realizing it was a painting of Xiao Qiao, with orchids from Yanzhou below. The next morning, when Wei Yan woke up, he found Lan Yun in the room, dressed exactly like Xiao Qiao in the portrait.

Lan Yun immediately acknowledged the difference between herself and Xiao Qiao but expressed her willingness to play Xiao Qiao’s role. Wei Yan warned her not to tell anyone about his feelings for Xiao Qiao and offered a generous sum of money for her to leave. Soon, Wei Yan dismissed all the concubines in his residence. News spread far and wide.

Upon hearing this, Su Ehuang naturally guessed that Wei Yan must have fallen for Xiao Qiao, which led to such drastic actions. Xiao Qiao brought some snacks to Wei Yan, who hadn’t eaten properly for days due to the canal construction project. Xiao Qiao was worried and believed Wei Shao could accomplish the task. She also promised to wholeheartedly support Wei Yan.

Wei Yan placed Xiao Qiao on his lap and said that, according to Wei Liang, there was a pastry shop here with snacks just like those in Kang County, which Xiao Qiao would surely love. Wei Shao volunteered to buy them for her. However, when Wei Shao returned, he found Lan Yun standing at the gate and was told by her about Wei Yan’s feelings for Xiao Qiao.

Wei Shao rushed to Wei Yan’s study and saw the portrait of Xiao Qiao. He recalled Wei Yan once mentioning someone forcibly interfering. Furious, he burned the portrait and left. By the time the servants came to put out the fire, the study was already destroyed. Wei Yan learned that Wei Shao had entered the study and accidentally knocked over a candle, thus realizing that Wei Shao now knew everything.

Back at his residence, Wei Shao overheard Xiao Zao and Chun Niang organizing Xiao Qiao’s dressing box, which contained her cherished belongings, including a perfume burner that Wei Yan had given her as a festival gift. Infuriated, Wei Shao smashed the box. The hairpin he had gifted Xiao Qiao was also broken. Xiao Qiao arrived just then and didn’t understand why Wei Shao was so angry at her dressing box. Wei Shao accused her of keeping gifts from another man.

When Xiao Qiao saw him throw away the perfume burner, she reproached him for suspecting her of having an affair with Wei Yan. Angry, she lashed out at him, saying he was always paranoid and that not every man in the Wei family could win her favor. With red eyes, Wei Shao left, and Xiao Qiao lay on the bed in frustration. Chen Pang sent Chen Lie to the Wei state, offering a passage for Wei Shao.

In reality, they wanted to bring Wei Yan back. Wei Shao valued Wei Yan highly and would rather reject the route than allow Wei Yan to be taken. He ordered the envoy from Bianzhou to be expelled, only to learn that the envoy had already gone to visit Wei Yan. Wei Shao met with Wei Yan, hoping he wouldn’t agree to leave. Wei Yan, however, made it clear that Wei Shao already knew about Xiao Qiao.

He openly admitted that he did have feelings for her—feelings he should not have had. Wei Shao angrily struck him but still reminded him that if he cut off those feelings, it would be as if nothing had ever happened. Wei Yan struck back, blaming Wei Shao and Lady Xu for being overly cautious in caring for and sheltering him. He even wished they could fight more often like this.

Wei Shao then expressed his deep bond with Wei Yan—regardless of his nationality, he was still his brother—but said the decision ultimately lay with Wei Yan. With a bruised face, Wei Shao returned home and found Xiao Qiao lighting candles. He went up to her and apologized, blaming himself for losing his temper the past few days. He feigned being pitiful and asked Xiao Qiao to look at his wounded cheek.

He knew she and Wei Yan had no romantic involvement; he had only spoken harshly in a moment of anger. Seeing Xiao Qiao’s blank expression, he even offered to slap himself to make amends. When Xiao Qiao saw the wound, she felt a bit of heartache and reached out to touch it, but Wei Shao pretended it hurt and asked her to hug him instead. Xiao Qiao fell into his arms, and both of them smiled sweetly.

Lady Xu quickly learned about the fight between Wei Shao and Wei Yan. Unbelieving that it was merely horseplay, she summoned Xiao Tan and Zhu Quan to inquire about the cause. The next day, when Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao went to pay respects to Lady Xu, she saw the bruises on Wei Shao’s face. He claimed they were from a fall. Wei Yan, also summoned, arrived with a similarly bruised face and gave the same excuse.

Lady Xu brought up the study fire. Wei Shao promptly admitted fault and said he had taken the chance to repair Wei Yan’s residence. In private, Lady Xu told Wei Yan that he could freely ask Wei Shao for things to renovate the house, but not everything—especially not the things Wei Shao cherished most. She reminded Wei Yan that a friend’s wife must not be coveted. Wei Yan understood.

Back home, Wei Yan sat in the burned-out study and gave a bitter smile, as if finally making up his mind. He realized that human emotions extended beyond romantic love and that he could sever such attachments. Qiao Ci visited Da Qiao and Bi Zhi’s residence. Da Qiao seized the opportunity to ask if Qiao Ci had heard Xiao Qiao mention Bi Zhi. Qiao Ci didn’t know about the missing invitation but explained that delivering messages had been inconvenient.

This made Da Qiao begin to harbor resentment toward Xiao Qiao. Behind the scenes, Su Ehuang stirred trouble by spreading rumors that Wei Yan was in love with Xiao Qiao. Wei Yan planned to bring snacks to Lady Xu, but Zhu Quan stopped him, worried that he might hear the gossip outside. Zhu Quan wanted to arrest the rumor spreaders, but Wei Yan believed that rumors flowed like water—it was better to channel than block them.

He believed the matter could be covered up, and only by doing so could the rumors be quelled. He decided to shift all blame to Bianzhou, claiming that external rumors from Bianzhou had forced him to go there. To that end, he summoned Chen Lie and agreed to return with him to Bianzhou. Before leaving, he asked Chen Lie to handle the cover-up. That night, Wei Yan brought snacks to Lady Xu and told her he was leaving.

Lady Xu sensed that he would not return and was moved to tears. Wei Yan, having made up his mind, feared he might bring harm to his family. He did not want to ruin Xiao Qiao’s reputation, tarnish Wei Shao’s dignity, or make things difficult for Lady Xu. She said she couldn’t bear for him to go and forbade him from leaving, but Wei Yan knelt to bid farewell.

He asked her to treat it as if he were going on a casual trip, and to let go of feelings that didn’t belong to him or cling to the people before his eyes. As she watched his departing figure, Lady Xu cried out and chased after him, accidentally falling off the steps at the doorway. Wei Shao, hearing the rumors among the people, ordered a thorough investigation.

Su Ehuang came to provoke him, suggesting that he send Xiao Qiao out of the city to avoid the gossip. But Wei Shao sternly declared that since his wife had been slandered, it was his duty to arrest and punish those spreading rumors. Su Ehuang dared not speak further. Wei Shao’s men arrested the rumor-mongers and discovered they were from Bianzhou. Wei Yan came forward to protect them, saying he would take them away.

When Wei Shao got the news, he rushed over, afraid that Wei Yan’s true identity would be exposed. He let the Bianzhou spies go and again declared that Wei Yan would always be his cousin. But Wei Yan whispered in his ear that no cousin should ever love his younger brother’s wife.

Wei Shao said he would find out the mastermind behind the rumors and clear Wei Yan’s name. He only hoped Wei Yan would stay. However, Wei Yan had already made up his mind to leave. Wei Shao chased him to the city gate, hoping to persuade him to stay. Wei Yan knew that only by leaving could he protect Xiao Qiao from harm and allow Wei Shao to preserve his dignity.

He earnestly begged Wei Shao to let him go, saying that perhaps he could carve out a future of his own. He also cut off one of his own fingers to swear an oath: as long as Madam Xu was alive, he would never aid the borderlands in resisting Wei. After drinking the wine in his flask, he gave the flask, named “Yearning for Home,” to Wei Shao and rode off. Madam Xu had been bedridden ever since a fall.

Xiao Qiao took care of her by her side. When Lady Wei heard about Madam Xu’s fall, she thought it was serious and came rushing over in tears, even trying to bring the funeral clothes that had long been prepared. Xiao Qiao hurriedly stopped Lady Wei from continuing and reminded her that Madam Xu was merely asleep. Madam Xu found her daughter-in-law hard to deal with and, feeling troubled, ordered everyone to leave. Thinking of Wei Yan’s departure, she wept.

Wei Shao was filled with sorrow and sat in the courtyard. Xiao Qiao came to comfort him, leaning against his side. She believed that with Wei Shao’s abilities, he would surely find the person behind it all — the person who had caused Madam Xu’s illness and driven Wei Yan away from home was a venomous figure hiding in the shadows. Wei Shao captured Lan Yun and Su Zixin.

Under harsh interrogation, Su Zixin confessed that everything had been orchestrated by Su Ehuang — including the replacement of the wheat seeds and the framing of Qiao Ci. Lan Yun confirmed this account. Su Ehuang had no way to deny it and instead brought up her tragic background, explaining her hardships and expressing her willingness to help Wei Shao seize the world.

She confessed her admiration for him and reminded him that she was born under the peony fate, trying to persuade him. But Wei Shao was unmoved. He rebuked Su Ehuang, saying she was not worthy of his elder brother. He wiped the peony ornament off her forehead and scolded her for her insatiable ambition that led to the current situation.

In fact, his elder brother Wei Bao had long known the peony ornament was fake but still wished to marry her. Even Chen Xiang had been willing to build her a jade tower, which proved that they truly loved her. It was Su Ehuang who was ungrateful and became unreasonable. Wei Shao took the jade pendant from Su Ehuang and cut off her nose. He then executed Lan Yun and Su Zixin.

Wei Shao placed the jade pendant in front of his brother’s memorial tablet, feeling it had not been worth it. But Xiao Qiao believed that Su Ehuang couldn’t have always been like this. She even teased Wei Shao, saying that Su Ehuang indeed admired him now — after all, she was a woman who adored the strong. Su Ehuang was driven out by Wei Shao.

In a carriage on the outskirts of the city, she wiped the blood from her nose. Her maids were shocked and believed that no one would want to marry Su Ehuang now. They planned to steal her gold and silver and flee that night. But Su Ehuang discovered them and killed the two leading maids. The rest were so frightened that they obeyed without question.

Su Ehuang put on a butterfly mask and sent someone to deliver a message to Xue Tai, saying she wanted to go to Liangya together with him. At Liangya, Su Ehuang persuaded Liu Yan to let her stay and form an alliance, claiming that she was the destined selector of the emperor who would unify the world.

However, the state of Wushan soon received word and sent emissaries to Liangya, demanding Su Ehuang’s return to marry the Governor of Taozhou as a concubine, bringing with them a betrothal gift. Su Ehuang declared she had fifty thousand troops and refused to be a concubine. But the envoy said that it was precisely because of those fifty thousand troops that they wanted her as a concubine. Nevertheless, the state of Wushan would respect Liu Yan’s wishes.

If Liu Yan was willing to accept Su Ehuang as a concubine, they would allow him to marry her. Liu Yan, however, stated that he had no intention of taking a concubine and promised a generous dowry, expressing his willingness to marry Su Ehuang as his wife.

Liu Yan offered double the bride price of the Governor of Taozhou to marry Su Ehuang and placed two counties under her name. The envoy from the Kingdom of Wushan immediately knelt down, expressing full support in preparing their wedding. As Liu Yan was preparing to go hunt a lynx for Su Ehuang, she came to him and said there was no need to continue the act.

She willingly handed over the military tally to Liu Yan, asking him to dispatch troops against the Wei State and stop the construction of Yongning Canal. Liu Yan also swore that once the Wei State was taken, he would share it with Su Ehuang. In Yu Commandery, Madam Xu was preparing for Xiao Qiao’s mourning removal ceremony and specifically asked her to get fitted for new clothes.

Madam Wei, sitting nearby, commented that she used to have a figure similar to Xiao Qiao’s when she was young, though now it was a pity. Madam Xu remarked that each stage of life has its own kind of beauty, and there was no need to fuss over it. Xiao Qiao praised that Madam Xu and Madam Wei must have been beauties in their youth—otherwise, how could such a handsome man like Wei Shao be their descendant?

At that moment, Wei Shao arrived and took Xiao Qiao to the courtyard, where he had placed Qiao Gui’s memorial tablet. Xiao Qiao burst into tears. Since being with Wei Shao, she had never dared to mention Qiao Gui’s name, though she missed him deeply. Seeing her sobbing, Wei Shao gently grasped her arm and softly reminded her that no matter what happened in the future, she could tell him everything. Xiao Qiao then fell into his arms.

Xiao Qiao, dressed in white, knelt before Qiao Gui’s memorial tablet to pay her respects, while Wei Shao stood behind her, silently watching. That night, Xiao Qiao officially ended her mourning, changed into slightly more colorful clothes, and did her makeup. Meanwhile, at the government office, Wei Shao was restless, anxiously staring at the entrance, anticipating the bridal night.

Chun Niang had already inquired and found out that Wei Shao did not have a bed companion and knew nothing about the matters between men and women. Due to his rough personality, she worried he might hurt Xiao Qiao, so she reminded Xiao Qiao to check the silk manual at the bottom of her dowry chest to study beforehand. Xiao Qiao, embarrassed, promised to read it.

Wei Shao, unable to wait, rushed back to the residence and came to Xiao Qiao. The two looked at each other and smiled, filled with affection. They drank the union wine together, both somewhat nervous. Wei Shao asked Xiao Qiao if she was afraid. Xiao Qiao bravely said she wasn’t, and Wei Shao, equally nervous, echoed the same, making Xiao Qiao laugh. She thanked Wei Shao for allowing her to observe mourning for her grandfather for a year.

Wei Shao didn’t mind, saying that when they got married, they couldn’t even stand each other and didn’t want to live together. Xiao Qiao asked what he felt now. Wei Shao sincerely replied that having her in this life was a lifelong blessing. They looked at each other with deep affection. Wei Shao gently caressed her cheek and kissed her forehead.

Just as they were about to take the next step, Wei Liang knocked urgently on the door to report that Yanzhou was under siege. Wei Shao immediately gathered everyone to discuss military affairs. He planned to intercept the enemy at Xiao Gang but didn’t expect Liangya to arrive there within half a day. Xiao Qiao, feeling guilty, wanted to tell Wei Shao immediately, only to discover he already knew about the secret passage and came to confront her.

Xiao Qiao admitted it was she who secretly had Bi Zhi build it. Wei Shao blamed her for always guarding against him, allowing Liangya to attack all the way from Yanzhou to Xiao Gang. This created a rift between them. Xiao Qiao tried to explain that her original distrust of him later turned into love, but Wei Shao said she never told him these things even then.

Xiao Qiao questioned whether Wei Shao ever truly let go of his hatred, saying he only refrained from attacking Yanzhou to please her. They argued fiercely. Wei Shao even accused her of making up reasons just to persuade him to rescue Yanzhou. Xiao Qiao cried. Wei Shao left, saying only a few people like Wei Liang knew about this matter and promising not to damage her reputation.

That night, Madam Xu summoned Wei Shao—not for any urgent matter, but to play chess with him. The game was the same unfinished one she had once played with the Qiao family. Wei Shao asked her if she could really help Yanzhou and forget past grievances. Madam Xu answered generously that she could; otherwise, she would be no different from Qiao Gui. When this marriage was arranged, she had already anticipated such a day.

She reminded Wei Shao to repay hatred with virtue. Xiao Tao tried to comfort Xiao Qiao, telling her that she had heard from Wei Liang that Xiao Qiao’s letters were no longer being monitored, so she believed in her sincerity. Xiao Qiao blamed herself for always guarding against Wei Shao and didn’t blame him for not sending troops to aid Yanzhou. But Chun Niang came to tell her that Wei Shao had already dispatched troops to Liancheng.

Since Liancheng belonged to Yanzhou and had been taken over by Liangya, Wei Liang’s move clearly meant helping Yanzhou. Xiao Qiao cried again. Xiao Tao delivered a shield to Wei Liang, with a protective charm sewn inside that she had prayed for. Xiao Qiao also came to see Wei Shao, bringing a pair of battle boots she made for him. Wei Shao was moved but maintained a cold demeanor.

Xiao Qiao knew that with the main forces heading to Liancheng, the rear would be vulnerable. She promised to guard it for Wei Shao. Wei Shao stared at her for a long while before silently walking away. The next day, Wei Shao arranged to secure Yu Commandery and sent troops in multiple directions toward Liancheng and Panyi. Madam Xu personally saw him off, bringing farewell wine and urging him not to return without victory.

Madam Wei, as usual, rambled on, promising to wait for his return. Fearing she might say something inappropriate, Madam Xu had someone help her away. Wei Qu reminded Wei Shao to look at Xiao Qiao one more time, but Wei Shao, still angry, stubbornly refused. Xiao Qiao watched Wei Shao lead the troops out and beat the war drums to send him off. Right after he left, she proposed going to Bo Cliff to request reinforcements to support Wei Shao.

Madam Wei immediately promised that if it really brought Wei Shao back, she would listen to everything Xiao Qiao said from then on. Madam Xu assigned five hundred of her personal guards to escort Xiao Qiao to Bo Cliff, along with Wei Xiao. Wei Yan pleaded with Chen Pang for help in aiding Wei State, since they were now allies in the canal construction. But Chen Pang refused. Wei Yan asked to borrow 100,000 troops, promising to replenish any losses.

However, Chen Pang didn’t believe him, sarcastically saying that even if he filled the losses, those people would still be from Wei State, and he wouldn’t dare use them. Wei Yan left angrily. The soldiers all looked down on Wei Yan, thinking he was just a frivolous man good for nothing. No one wanted to follow him. One person even challenged Wei Yan directly. Wei Yan took on the entire group by himself.

When one of them was about to be crushed by a falling giant cauldron, Wei Yan threw himself under it to shield him from harm. Because of this, all the generals knelt before Wei Yan, completely won over by him.

When everyone was sincerely convinced by Wei Yan, Chen Pang walked out clapping happily. He also believed that Wei Yan truly deserved to be the young master. However, Wei Yan refused to take the position, declaring that he had grown up eating the Wei family’s food and would never become Chen Pang’s son.

He pressed Chen Pang about whether he had abducted his mother years ago, but Chen Pang did not answer and instead punished Wei Yan by ordering him to guard the border. After Wei Yan left, Chen Pang felt uneasy. He believed that Wei Yan was essentially a wolf, though years of oppression by the Wei family had turned him into a dog.

Now, he had to force Wei Yan to become a wolf again—only then could he secure his position as lord. Wei Yan led his troops to guard the border. Meanwhile, Wei Shao and his men arrived at the suspension bridge of Panyi. Despite their alliance with the forces of Panyi, they were still severely outnumbered. Wei Qu and the others worried that the people of Bo’ya might not send reinforcements—just like before. Nonetheless, Wei Shao entered Panyi with his men.

Liu Yan received the news without concern and vowed never to give up Panyi to Wei Shao. Da Qiao awaited Xiao Qiao’s arrival. Seeing Xiao Qiao arrive with her troops, she realized that Xiao Qiao held an extraordinary status in Wei. Xiao Qiao was pleased to see Da Qiao pregnant but did not see Bi Zhi and learned he had gone to patrol the border.

Da Qiao comforted Xiao Qiao to settle down, but Xiao Qiao anxiously informed her that both Liancheng and Yanzhou were under siege, and Wei Shao had already taken troops to support them. However, Liu Yan had led an army of a hundred thousand, vastly outnumbering them. Da Qiao understood Xiao Qiao’s intention but believed all they could do was pray for safety—nothing more.

She also told Xiao Qiao that Bi Zhi had been very good to her, but ever since occupying Bo’ya, he had been sleepless, locked in a five-day struggle with Xue Tai without returning, which deeply worried her. Xiao Qiao understood her feelings but reminded Da Qiao that it was their own clan now under siege. Da Qiao still refused to help, saying Bo’ya had only twenty thousand men, not enough to counter Liu Yan’s forces.

Xiao Qiao warned that once Liu Yan’s reinforcements arrived, there would be no saving Panyi and Liancheng. Da Qiao burst into tears, saying that while Xiao Qiao could make Wei Shao risk his life for the people, she only wanted to protect her husband. She could die for Xiao Qiao, but she could not force Bi Zhi to do the same. She could not use love as leverage. At that moment, Bi Zhi returned and saw the two sisters crying.

He asked Da Qiao what had happened, but she shook her head and said nothing, afraid Xiao Qiao would speak. Xiao Qiao did not reveal her thoughts and instead said she would ask nothing more from Da Qiao. She tearfully said goodbye and left. Watching her go, Da Qiao burst into tears, and Bi Zhi pulled her into his arms. After walking out, Xiao Qiao broke down in sobs.

Da Qiao could fight to the death to protect Bi Zhi, while she had made Wei Shao run around for her. For a moment, she did not know what she had done. Xiao Zao offered to go and plead with Da Qiao again, but Xiao Qiao refused and told Xiao Zao and Chun Niang to return to Yu County.

She would lead five hundred men to Panyi as promised—even if it meant going to her death, she would not let Wei Shao face it alone. Just then, a few children were playing by the roadside, giving Xiao Qiao inspiration. Looking at a canal map, she suddenly had an idea to hold the rear for Wei Shao. Water flows downhill and can carry sand and stones—if they used the terrain, perhaps they could win despite being outnumbered.

As long as they built the dam and waited for Liu Yan’s forces, no matter how many soldiers there were, they would collapse in the face of the flood. Xiao Qiao prayed in her heart for Wei Shao to wait for her arrival. Fifteen years ago, the Qiao family had failed to keep their appointment, but now, no matter what, she would stand by Wei Shao through thick and thin.

At that moment, Wei Shao was also thinking of Xiao Qiao. Liu Yan rallied his troops and offered a great reward for Wei Shao’s head. The soldiers charged toward Panyi with great momentum. In the brutal battle between the two armies, casualties mounted. Xiao Qiao and Wei Xiao led their group to the mountains, found the reservoir Qiao Gui had mentioned, and encouraged their guards to gamble everything with her, assigning tasks in groups.

The offensive from Liangya was fierce, breaking through Panyi’s forward defenses. Wei Shao firmly believed Xiao Qiao would bring reinforcements. Xiao Qiao, meanwhile, was building the dam to store water and capturing many birds, ready to release them when the enemy arrived to create the illusion of an ambush. Once everything was ready, she ordered the dam on the Wu Ze River to be blown up.

Water rushed down immediately, and after releasing it for a night, the reservoir would be full. Wei Shao’s side soon noticed the water level drop and suspected it was a tactic by the enemy to cross the river. Da Qiao was saddened and wept at the thought of Xiao Qiao. Bi Zhi, unaware of the reason, assumed she was just worried about Xiao Qiao and comforted her, saying Xiao Qiao was accompanied by five hundred guards and would be fine.

If Xiao Qiao hadn’t told him to guard Bo’ya, he would have personally escorted her. Da Qiao hesitated but said nothing. The next day, Wei Shao and Liu Yan’s troops clashed again. Liu Yan’s reinforcements, led by General Lin, arrived at the Wu Ze River. When they checked the water level, they saw Xiao Qiao in red standing on the bridge opposite. General Lin was overjoyed—capturing Xiao Qiao would be a great feat.

He immediately ordered his men to cross the river and capture her. Gongsun Yang saw Wei Shao surrounded in the formation and quickly beat the war drum to boost morale. The Wei brothers fought fiercely. Liu Shan’s troops suffered heavy casualties, and General Lin’s reinforcements fell into an ambush and were utterly defeated. With no other choice, Liu Yan ordered a retreat to Liangya. Wei Shao won a decisive victory.

Gongsun Yang believed that Xiao Qiao had not let Wei Shao down and had brought reinforcements from Bo’ya, defeating twenty thousand troops. While Wei Shao missed Xiao Qiao, he stubbornly complained that she didn’t care about him—otherwise, she wouldn’t have sent even a single letter. At that moment, Qiao Ci and Wei Liang arrived to deliver the good news: they had recaptured Liancheng and Xiao Gang.

Qiao Ci thanked Wei Shao for his help, but Wei Shao credited all the success to Xiao Qiao. Just then, someone found a water lantern in the river. Wei Shao knew it was from Xiao Qiao and guessed that she must have gone to Liangya herself to seek reinforcements—there was no way help could have arrived so quickly otherwise. Holding the lantern, he missed Xiao Qiao deeply and planned to meet her personally.

Gongsun Yang noticed Wei Shao’s anxiety and reassured him that once the troops were ready, they would go meet Xiao Qiao together. Gongsun Yang praised Xiao Qiao endlessly, but Wei Shao still stubbornly insisted she was just clever and refused to admit that she had gone to get reinforcements for him, claiming it was for Yanzhou. Seeing Wei Shao’s contradictory words and expressions, Gongsun Yang couldn’t help but laugh.

Wei Shao stubbornly refused to admit that he missed Xiao Qiao or that she cared about him. He suggested going on an inspection tour, and everyone insisted on going with him. Qiao Ci proposed that Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao both go to Kang Commandery. Xiao Qiao had been away from home for a year, and her family missed her dearly.

Wei Shao thought of the river lanterns Xiao Qiao had released and the words she said when drunk, realizing that she missed home in her heart. Fearing that Wei Shao might still hold on to his hatred, Gongsun Yang suggested returning to Yu Commandery to avoid worrying Madam Xu. Wei Shao agreed to let Qiao Ci go bring Xiao Qiao back home. Once she had enough fun, he would escort her to the Wei border himself.

At this point, Wei Shao still couldn't let go of his inner knot. Wei Liang and Wei Qu knew that Wei Shao had once sworn to go to Kang Commandery one day to kill the Qiao family, so now was not the right time to go. Although Wei Liang missed Xiao Tao, he had no choice but to follow Wei Shao back.

Still, he kept muttering about how Xiao Tao had gone to Kang Commandery to fetch reinforcements and brought Qiao Ci, but refused to come see him. On their way back, Wei Shao and the others passed through Boya and saw Bi Zhi hunting. They were surprised that Bi Zhi wasn’t personally leading troops in battle. Only then did Bi Zhi learn that Xiao Qiao had gone to bring reinforcements in order to ambush Liu Yan’s backup forces.

When Xiao Qiao was discovered by General Lin, he originally wanted to capture her, but Xiao Qiao reminded him that crossing the river during such heavy rain would certainly lead to drowning in the Yang River. Having led troops for many years, General Lin naturally knew someone must have built a dike. Seeing birds flying overhead further convinced him of an ambush.

Coupled with Xiao Qiao’s explanation that Liu Yan disregarded family bonds, General Lin eventually sent a message to Liu Yan saying he encountered an ambush and could not provide reinforcements, and then ordered a retreat. Xiao Qiao again released river lanterns, praying for Wei Shao’s safety. When Wei Shao heard that Xiao Qiao led several hundred men to ambush Liu Yan’s forces, he was extremely anxious. Gongsun Yang admired Xiao Qiao even more.

Wei Shao immediately led a search party to find her. Upon hearing what had happened to Xiao Qiao, Da Qiao was filled with guilt and told Bi Zhi Xiao Qiao’s true intentions. Worried about Xiao Qiao’s safety, Da Qiao decided to return to Kang Commandery, and Bi Zhi agreed. Wei Shao arrived at the place where Xiao Qiao had built a dike and seemed to see her personally carrying sand and stones. His heart ached.

Xiao Qiao swore to do her utmost to earn an opportunity for Wei Shao, even if it cost her life—she would never let him down. At the same time, she missed Wei Shao deeply and hoped he would come to her, yearning to return home with the one she loved. Wei Shao chased Xiao Qiao in the rain. Chun Niang tried to persuade Xiao Qiao to wait for him.

Xiao Qiao knew they weren’t an ordinary couple; at most, she would wait one day. If Wei Shao didn’t show up, she would go to Kang Commandery alone. When Wei Shao arrived at the crossing bridge, he sought shelter from the rain and guessed that Xiao Qiao must have crossed the river. Unexpectedly, Xiao Qiao hadn’t crossed due to the dangerous rain. Wei Shao, overwhelmed with emotion, embraced her but scolded her for taking such a risk.

Xiao Qiao, pretending to be angry, returned to her room. Chun Niang told Wei Shao that Xiao Qiao had always missed him and that he shouldn’t hurt her feelings. The Wei brothers also criticized Wei Shao for not knowing how to say anything nice. Gongsun Yang persuaded everyone to rest and give Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao some private time together.

Wei Shao came to see Xiao Qiao and deliberately brought two oranges, placing them before her, trying to make small talk—complaining the charcoal fire wasn’t warm enough, then that the quilt was too thin. Xiao Qiao snapped back at him without mercy. Wei Shao crouched before her and admitted he was the one feeling cold. Xiao Qiao couldn’t help but laugh.

Wei Shao also confessed that these days had not been good for him—he always missed Xiao Qiao and felt lost waking up without her by his side. Regarding today’s incident, he explained he misspoke and wasn’t trying to be harsh. He questioned why Xiao Qiao went to the battlefield alone—wasn’t she afraid? Xiao Qiao admitted she was scared, but her lover was still on the battlefield, and she had promised to help him resist the enemy.

She didn’t want her lover to think she didn’t love him. She hoped to live and die with him. However, she couldn’t gamble with her family and the people of Yanzhou—she just wanted Wei Shao to know they were all important. Wei Shao said he understood Xiao Qiao and admitted he had ignored her difficulties. He recognized how much she had done for the Qiao family, yet he failed to appreciate it.

In fact, no one had done better than Xiao Qiao. She had maneuvered between two nations, and even the slightest disturbance would hurt her the most. Wei Shao also admitted he had never given Xiao Qiao any promises, making her live under immense pressure. While searching for her, he kept asking himself—if he lost her, even if he killed all his enemies and ruled the world, what would it matter? It was his fault for not cherishing Xiao Qiao properly.

He only hoped she wouldn’t become disheartened or doubt his sincerity. Wei Shao voluntarily offered to accompany Xiao Qiao to Kang Commandery, to see the place where she grew up. His grandmother had always told him to let go of his hatred—perhaps only by truly arriving in Kang Commandery could he let go. Xiao Qiao suddenly realized how much Wei Shao had sacrificed for her. To Wei Shao, everything Xiao Qiao had done was worth it.

Moved, Xiao Qiao kissed him. On the way back with his remaining defeated troops, Liu Yan had Liu Shan tally the death toll. Out of the 100,000 soldiers who set out, only 30,000 remained. Only three generals were left. Liu Shan advised that the war couldn’t go on any longer, or Liangya would be doomed. He reminded Liu Yan not to act alone and to focus on appeasing the clan elders.

However, Liu Xiao insisted on regrouping and continuing the war. Liu Yan ordered Liu Xiao to arrest General Lin for deserting the battlefield and immediately ordered a retreat. Liu Shan was overjoyed, thinking Liu Yan had accepted his advice. He quickly suggested that upon return, he would admit fault to the clan on Liu Yan’s behalf and hoped Liu Yan would also show a cooperative attitude.

Though Liu Yan remained indifferent on the surface, inwardly, he had begun to harbor murderous intent toward Liu Shan. Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao arrived in Kang Commandery. Wei Liang finally saw Xiao Tao, whom he missed dearly. Bi Zhi and Da Qiao returned with them, but Qiao Yue treated them coldly, with eyes only for Wei Shao. Xiao Qiao’s father treated Bi Zhi with great respect.

Wei Shao noticed Qiao Yue’s snobbishness, politely addressing Bi Zhi as brother-in-law, which finally earned Bi Zhi some face from Qiao Yue. However, Zhang Pu noticed that although Wei Shao acknowledged Bi Zhi as a brother-in-law, he still hadn’t acknowledged Qiao Yue. Madam Ding warmly welcomed Xiao Qiao and Da Qiao, constantly mindful of Xiao Qiao’s preferences.

Wei Shao was moved, realizing how Xiao Qiao had always been cared for at home, yet ever since following him, she had to be cautious and think only of him. This made him feel even more tender toward her. Xiao Qiao showed Wei Shao around her hometown. Wei Shao blamed himself for not doing better. He saw how free and happy Xiao Qiao was here, while Yu Commandery felt more like a cage. Xiao Qiao smiled and said she felt free and joyful as long as she was with Wei Shao.

Wei Shao hoped that in the future, not only Kang Commandery but also Yu Commandery would be Xiao Qiao’s home, and that both places would care for her. Xiao Qiao felt uneasy in the valley—her sister used to play the zither here while she danced. It seemed all of that no longer existed. But Wei Shao reminded Xiao Qiao to look up. Da Qiao was already sitting there with her konghou, waiting.

Though the two of them completed the music and dance just like before, their conversation revealed a hint of estrangement. When Bi Zhi helped Da Qiao leave and saw the sorrow in her heart, he comforted her, believing that the sisters would slowly reconcile. Xiao Qiao also talked about this with Wei Shao, thinking she might have been wrong back then and shouldn’t have let her husband take risks for her.

Wei Shao held her hand to reassure her, saying his Manman was different from ordinary women—she was one with a heart for the world—and he was willing to be the spear in her hand, fighting for her. Xiao Qiao wrote a few words in Wei Shao’s hand, wishing for her husband’s safety. Wei Shao embraced her tightly. While strolling in the city, Wei Shao saw that Xiao Qiao’s father, the governor, was sheltering many refugees from other regions.

The refugees knelt in gratitude. Wei Shao took the initiative to provide grain, which was the military provisions he had brought when coming to Kang Commandery. Soon after, Kang Commandery itself began to send support as well. The governor bowed repeatedly to thank him. Wei Shao asked why the governor was taking in so many refugees.

To the governor, they were simply pitiful people, and their origin didn’t matter—just like Wei Shao digging canals without discrimination—it was all for the people. The governor only hoped for peace in the world, so it could last for generations. These words reminded Wei Shao of something Xiao Qiao had once said—just wishing for peace. Wei Shao smiled, sincerely hoping that day would come.

He expressed that the people were the most important in troubled times and respectfully addressed the governor as father-in-law, even kneeling to pay his respects. The governor, moved to tears, helped him up with both hands, feeling even more guilty and uneasy in his heart. As the night banquet approached, Wei Shao invited the governor to attend with him. The governor agreed with a smile but still felt the Qiao family owed the Wei family.

At the night banquet, Qiao Yue tried several times to toast Wei Shao and even called him by name. But Wei Shao not only refused to drink with him, he also reminded Qiao Yue not to call his name and to refer to him as Lord Wei instead. Helpless, and to save face, Qiao Yue turned to drink with Bi Zhi and had Bi Zhi call him father-in-law. Bi Zhi, straightforward as always, also toasted Wei Shao.

Qiao Yue proposed that Bi Zhi and Da Qiao live at their house and that Bo Ya would be managed by his people, but Da Qiao refused. To her, Bo Ya was home. In private, Qiao Yue blamed Da Qiao for not stepping in to help, which had led to Wei Shao’s resentment and his refusal to speak with him. At the critical moment, she had even turned against the family for the sake of a stable boy.

Da Qiao reminded Qiao Yue that Bi Zhi was no longer a stable boy, but Qiao Yue looked down on him deep in his bones, thinking he was no more than a militia soldier. He asked Bi Zhi to return, but Da Qiao refused again, reprimanding her father for trying to use her to manipulate Bi Zhi. Even when she didn’t mobilize her forces before, Xiao Qiao didn’t blame her—so Qiao Yue had even less reason to.

Furious, Qiao Yue raised his hand to strike her, but Bi Zhi rushed over to stand beside Da Qiao. Qiao Yue didn’t dare make a move. Da Qiao warned him that if he wanted Bo Ya, he would have to take it by force. Qiao Yue couldn’t understand why both daughters were turning away from him, unable to grasp the root cause.

Zhang Pu commented that although the two ladies were estranged from Qiao Yue, they were not estranged from Yanzhou. He also reminded Qiao Yue that many refugees had come to Kang Commandery recently, and the governor’s prestige had already surpassed Qiao Yue’s. Bi Zhi hated himself for not being able to give Da Qiao the same kind of glory. Once again, she had clashed with her father because of him.

Da Qiao held Bi Zhi’s hand, saying what mattered to her was his sincerity. Bi Zhi took out the preserved plum he had kept close to his heart—it happened to be exactly what Da Qiao had been craving. At the same time, Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao were in their room embracing. They were to return to Wei State the next day. Wei Shao asked if there was anything she still wanted to do—he would accompany her.

Xiao Qiao worried that Wei Shao was only forcing a smile for her sake. She didn’t even dare to hope anymore. Seizing the moment, Wei Shao suggested that she bear him a child. Xiao Qiao whispered in his ear that she would definitely give him a home—a home filled with children. The two consummated their marriage in the room where Xiao Qiao once lived in Kang Commandery. The next day, Xiao Qiao and Wei Shao departed together.

Wei Shao said farewell to the governor, only asking him to take care of his health. Facing the direction of Wei State, the governor suddenly knelt and solemnly kowtowed. Wei Shao was deeply moved, realizing that this was an act of repentance. The governor apologized to the late Lord Wei and thanked Lady Xu and Wei Shao for their generosity. He couldn’t express the guilt he held for everything in the past.

Wei Shao told the governor that all the grievances between the two families had been erased. The governor admitted that if their roles were reversed, he wouldn’t have been able to treat Xiao Qiao kindly. But now, with Lady Xu’s affection and Wei Shao personally escorting her back to Kang Commandery, he felt even more remorseful. Wei Shao also blamed himself for having once treated Xiao Qiao harshly.

Xiao Qiao held his hand and insisted that Wei Shao had never treated her poorly. She promised to love him even more. The governor was finally at ease and entrusted Xiao Qiao to Wei Shao. The two gazed into each other’s eyes. After winning a battle, Wei Shao needed to offer sacrifices at the ancestral temple. Chun Niang and others were worried that Xiao Qiao wouldn’t be allowed to enter.

If she couldn’t enter the temple, she would never be truly accepted. But Xiao Qiao felt that even if she couldn’t go in, there was no need for blame. She had never dared to hope for such a thing. At that moment, Xiao Tan delivered a set of ceremonial robes, which Wei Shao had ordered to be rushed overnight. They had arrived just in time, and Xiao Qiao was deeply moved.

The next day, Xiao Qiao arrived at the ancestral temple in plain robes. Wei Shao was waiting at the entrance and led her by the hand inside. Lady Xu and the others were already there. Wei Shao performed the rites with Xiao Qiao and made offerings. He introduced Xiao Qiao to his late father and brothers, and it seemed she saw them standing there, nodding and smiling in approval.

After the sacrificial ceremony, Wei Shao expressed his gratitude at the banquet to Madam Xu, his mother, and his uncles, but most of all to Xiao Qiao. He hoped to walk hand in hand with Xiao Qiao in the future. Madam Xu offered high praise, finally feeling a great burden lifted from her heart. Madam Wei summoned Wei Shao and suggested that he and Xiao Qiao should have a child to prevent any changes in the situation.

She had specially prepared clothes previously worn by pregnant women for Xiao Qiao to wear, believing it would help her conceive quickly. Wei Shao did not object, though he felt it was a bit inappropriate that the clothes came from the wife of a butcher. Wei Liang also brought up marrying Xiao Tao. He said he would wait until he had saved enough military pay and then ask Wei Shao to approve the marriage.

However, Xiao Tao was anxious to marry Wei Liang and feared the wait would be too long. Wei Liang didn’t understand and insisted on saving enough money so he could afford the wedding, which frustrated Xiao Tao and made her leave in anger. Hearing their conversation, Wei Qu pointed out Xiao Tao’s feelings to Wei Liang, who then happily went to borrow money from Wei Qu so he could marry Xiao Tao.

Wei Shao kept thinking about his mother’s suggestion and also wanted Xiao Qiao to conceive soon. But feeling the clothes were unsuitable, he instead proposed to Gongsun Yang to strengthen the defenses of Bo Ya and the borders of Wei.

Just then, Wei Liang came to ask Wei Shao to preside over his and Xiao Tao’s matter, but before he could speak, Wei Shao assigned him to deliver military supplies and to also fetch some clothes that had been worn by Da Qiao. If there were any items used by children, he was to bring a couple of those as well.

At this time, Xiao Qiao’s tastes had changed, and her cycle had not arrived, so she suspected she might be pregnant, though she didn’t tell Wei Shao before confirming it. Wei Liang came to Da Qiao asking for a gift, and Da Qiao rummaged through boxes trying to find something Xiao Qiao liked.

Bi Zhi felt Da Qiao didn’t need to go to such lengths, but Da Qiao recalled how, when she and Bi Zhi ran away from home, Xiao Qiao had picked out many of her favorite things for her. Now she wanted to do the same for Xiao Qiao. Bi Zhi was touched by the sisters’ bond and sincerely praised his wife. Liu Shan and Liu Yan returned together.

Liu Shan worried that they had come back after a defeat and feared Su Ehuang might also betray them. At this time, Xue Tai also doubted Liu Yan’s reliability and suggested Su Ehuang return to Xue County with them. But Su Ehuang refused to leave and declared she would help Chen Xiang conquer the land, and that only Liu Yan currently dared to confront Wei Shao.

Su Ehuang deliberately wore bridal attire and approached Liu Yan, bringing up their engagement and expressing her determination to help Liu Yan soar and transform like a dragon. Su Ehuang analyzed the current situation between the Qiao and Wei families. She believed the Wei family valued affection and loyalty and would always stand by their kin, while the Qiao family was used to going with the wind.

She offered to persuade others to form alliances with Liu Yan to attack Wei Shao. Liu Shan warned Liu Yan not to act rashly, since they had just lost a battle and couldn’t afford more setbacks. But Liu Yan, eager for victory, scolded Liu Shan and threatened to kill him if he spoke again. Liu Shan had no choice but to remain silent.

Liu Yan then carried Su Ehuang away, but Su Ehuang’s eyes lingered on the main seat behind them. Wei Liang, just back, went to Xiao Tao and told her he had asked Wei Shao for a reward and promised to marry her soon. Xiao Tao said she wasn’t concerned about a courtyard—anything simple would do. But Wei Liang suddenly remembered he had to prepare a courtyard and ran off again to save money.

Xiao Tao complained that Wei Liang was too foolish, but Chun Niang liked this son-in-law, saying it showed he cared deeply about Xiao Tao. Wei Shao tucked Da Qiao’s items under the mattress and suddenly noticed Xiao Qiao was sleepy. Recalling that her cycle had been absent for a while, he grew worried and wanted to summon the imperial physician. But Xiao Qiao told Wei Shao she was pregnant.

Wei Shao was overjoyed and thought the things he had placed under the bed had worked their magic. Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao went together to the stargazing terrace. He embraced Xiao Qiao and named the child Fei Fei. The two imagined a peaceful world where their child could grow up. Wei Shao promised it would happen—once a son of the Wei family sets his heart on something, he never regrets it.

He also vowed he would never let Xiao Qiao down in this life. Someone secretly arranged for children to sing songs praising the governor and mocking Qiao Yue. Zhang Pu incited further discord, saying everyone was now talking about Qiao Ping while ignoring Qiao Yue. He worried that once Qiao Ci had a child, Qiao Yue’s status would be even more threatened. Su Ehuang sent Liu Yan off to Kang County.

Liu Yan held Su Ehuang’s hand, reluctant to part, kissed her forehead, and promised never to let her down. Xiao Qiao had a nightmare in which her father encountered several wolves in the wild but remained unaware. She called out several times to warn him, but he never noticed. Wei Shao proposed bringing Qiao Ping to live with them for a while so Xiao Qiao could feel more at ease, which touched her deeply.

Wei Liang had always insisted on saving enough money before marrying Xiao Tao. Seeing that Wei Liang remained unmoved, Xiao Tao told him directly that her favorite thing was orchids—just bring her a pot of blooming orchids to propose with. She thought the matter would soon be settled, but Wei Liang insisted on cultivating the orchids in the courtyard until they bloomed.

Wei Qu, worried about Wei Liang’s stubbornness, suggested he pick up Qiao Ping and bring back a pot of blooming orchids from Yanzhou so they could proceed with the wedding right away. Wei Liang was very pleased with this idea. The four brothers lay on the ground looking up at the moon, each wearing the happiest smile. Xiao Tao went specially to the city gate to see Wei Liang off and asked about his true intentions in going to Yanzhou.

Wei Liang shyly admitted that besides picking up Qiao Ping, he would also bring back orchids to propose to Xiao Tao. She was overjoyed, and they waved goodbye to each other. Zhang Pu brought Qiao Yue to see Liu Yan, intending to help Qiao Yue make a comeback against the odds.

Qiao Yue was furious to see that Liu Yan had arrived. He blamed Liu Yan for attacking Yanzhou in the past, resulting in heavy losses, and now he had the audacity to come here. However, Liu Yan expressed that he could kill Wei Shao, leaving Qiao Ping with no support, thereby securing Qiao Yue's position as lord. Qiao Yue offered a toast to Qiao Ping, seemingly thanking him for his help over the years. Qiao Ping modestly returned the gesture.

Qiao Yue then proposed surrendering to Liu Yan to deal with Wei Shao. Qiao Ping did not understand the reasoning and advised observing the situation, not taking such a risk. He also reminded Qiao Yue that the Qiao and Wei families were related by marriage and should help each other. At the very least, they should not betray one another, and he went so far as to scold Qiao Yue for being fickle.

Qiao Yue grew furious and rebuked Qiao Ping for speaking to him that way. He emphasized that he had already allied with Liangya. Suddenly, Qiao Ping felt chest pain, his vision faded, and he fainted. Qiao Yue blamed Zhang Pu for administering too strong a dose, but Zhang Pu explained that the medicine given by Liu Shan was merely a sweating agent. Qiao Yue warned Zhang Pu not to harm Qiao Ci and only ordered him to be watched.

After giving birth, Da Qiao received a letter from her father expressing a desire to see the child. Overjoyed, Da Qiao saw it as a grandparent’s affection. Bi Zhi immediately accompanied Xiao Qiao back to Kang County. Qiao Yue was already waiting at the city gate, but Madam Ding and Qiao Ping were nowhere in sight. Qiao Yue deliberately apologized to Da Qiao and said he would arrange a wedding for them.

Then, he sent Bi Zhi away, asking him to pick sour plums. Bi Zhi believed him and turned to leave, but as soon as he did, Qiao Yue ordered his men to seize Da Qiao. Liu Yan appeared behind them, and the group attacked Bi Zhi together. However, they were no match for Bi Zhi. Liu Yan held a knife to Da Qiao’s neck, forcing Bi Zhi to stop. He threatened Bi Zhi to kill Wei Shao.

Although Bi Zhi had vowed never to harm Wei Shao or Xiao Qiao, seeing his beloved threatened, he had no choice but to kneel and obey. Wei Liang arrived in Kang County to look for Qiao Ping, but the gatekeepers behaved oddly. After some murmuring, they let him into the city. Inside, Wei Liang searched for Yanzhou orchid grass, hoping to buy the best, but suddenly many patrolling soldiers appeared on the streets, making him suspicious.

However, the shopkeepers reported nothing unusual, which slightly reassured him. Wei Liang then went to see Qiao Yue and proposed taking Qiao Ping to Yu County. Qiao Yue tried to decline, claiming Qiao Ping was ill. Wei Liang requested to visit the sick, so Qiao Yue lied that Qiao Ping was asleep and sent Zhang Pu to check. This increased Wei Liang's suspicion, and he then asked to see Qiao Ci, only to learn that he had gone hunting.

Wei Liang also heard that Bi Zhi and his wife were in town and expressed a desire to visit them but was again refused by Qiao Yue. At that moment, Bi Zhi arrived. Wei Liang greeted him, but unexpectedly, Bi Zhi struck and defeated him. Liu Yan and others appeared, and Wei Liang realized Qiao Yue had already allied with Liu Yan. Suddenly, Wei Liang launched a dart and fled.

Madam Ding brought food to Qiao Ci and told him everything Qiao Yue had done, hoping he would escape to warn Xiao Qiao. She offered herself as a hostage, allowing Qiao Ci to leave. The guards did not dare to pursue for fear of harming Madam Ding and Qiao Ci, so Qiao Ci took the opportunity to escape. Wei Liang was pursued relentlessly. His body was covered in wounds, and the orchid grass on his back was stained with blood.

At that moment, Qiao Ci arrived to help. Wei Liang handed him the orchid grass and urged him to flee and deliver the message, giving the grass to Xiao Tao. Wei Liang ultimately died in Kang County. Bi Zhi didn’t want to kill Wei Liang, but Liu Yan grabbed Bi Zhi’s hand and thrust it into Wei Liang’s chest. Before dying, Wei Liang only wished Xiao Tao would not wait for him.

Seeing this, Bi Zhi was overwhelmed with grief and tears fell from his eyes. At that moment, Qiao Yue arrived, gasping for breath. He instructed Liu Yan not to harm Qiao Ci, but Qiao Ci had already escaped. They needed to attack Panyi quickly. Liu Yan proposed that Qiao Yue open the gates of Panyi, given that Yang Feng had once served under Qiao Gui.

Qiao Yue led troops to the gates of Panyi, deceiving Yang Feng by claiming he had been attacked by Liu Yan and rescued by Bi Zhi, which was how they escaped there. Yang Feng believed in the Qiao-Wei alliance and saw no reason to doubt him, so he opened the gates and let them in. Bi Zhi and his men entered first and immediately captured Yang Feng.

Only then did Qiao Yue reveal his alliance with Liu Yan to oppose Wei. Thus, Panyi returned to Yanzhou. Yang Feng asked about Zhen Zhi, as reaching Panyi required passing through Xindu. Upon learning that Bi Zhi had bravely slain Zhen Zhi, Yang Feng dared not resist and could only welcome Qiao Yue and others. Soon, Liu Yan’s banner flew over the city gate. Yang Feng was heartbroken. Drinking alone, he mourned Zhen Zhi.

Though they didn’t drink together openly, they had deep mutual respect. Soon after, Liu Yan proclaimed his capture of Panyi across the regions. The regional lords began choosing sides, many aligning with Liu Yan. Chen Pang also received Liu Yan’s letter attempting to win him over. Fearing Wei Yan would find out and get involved, Chen Pang tried to keep it from him.

But Wei Yan had already found out, came to confront Chen Pang, and proposed aiding the Wei state. Chen Pang, however, had him detained, which infuriated Wei Yan. Everything was going according to Su Ehuang’s plan. She was waiting for Wei Shao to march on Panyi, so she could strike straight at Yu County and slaughter the Wei family to avenge her past. Qiao Ci, severely wounded, arrived in Yu County and collapsed at the city gate.

The guards recognized him and brought him inside. When he awoke, he saw Xiao Tao kneeling. He told her about Wei Liang’s death. Xiao Tao cursed him through tears, refusing to believe Wei Liang was really dead. Wei Shao questioned Qiao Ci about what had happened. Qiao Ci recounted everything to Wei Shao and Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao’s legs gave out and she couldn’t stand. Wei Xiao was furious and wanted to kill Qiao Ci, but Wei Shao stopped him. At that moment, news came that Panyi had fallen to Liu Yan. Wei Shao ordered preparations to depart for Panyi the next day.

Wei Qu wept to Wei Shao, insisting on retrieving Wei Liang. Wei Shao comforted him and ordered him to lead a cavalry unit to Kang Commandery to find Qiao Ping and bring Wei Liang back. At that moment, Xiao Qiao collapsed to the ground in unbearable abdominal pain, and Wei Shao hurriedly carried her up. When Xiao Qiao woke up, her eyes were streaked with tears.

She tightly embraced Wei Shao, blaming herself for not being able to bear everything in his place. Even if she gave her life, it couldn’t ease the pain in his heart. She had promised to bring prosperity to the Wei family, but instead, the first person he lost was Wei Liang. Xiao Tao had been waiting for Wei Liang’s return, but he died in Kang Commandery.

Wei Shao did not blame Xiao Qiao, believing it was the fault of Qiao Yue and Liu Yan, and he would not take it out on her. However, he knew a battle with Yanzhou was inevitable. Xiao Qiao understood Wei Shao. Whether for the people’s safety in Panyi or to avenge Wei Liang, he must march to war immediately. Xiao Qiao reassured him that she would never blame him.

Wei Shao promised not to let her down or implicate others, only asking Xiao Qiao to take care of herself and their unborn child. He feared he might not live to see their child born. Xiao Qiao couldn’t see him off in person but urged him to be cautious in everything. Despite his illness, Wei Shao departed. Xiao Qiao felt sorrowful, while Xiao Tao clutched the orchid Wei Liang gave her, thinking about their past.

Tears streamed down like broken pearls. She missed the way Wei Liang used to call her and finally broke down sobbing. Qiao Ci came to comfort her. Xiao Tao told him that Wei Liang had promised to return with the orchid and propose. Qiao Ci understood her sorrow and silently stayed by her side. Wei Shao's allies began defecting to Liu Yan.

Liu Yan was overjoyed and planned to bury Wei Shao in Yongcheng as revenge for Xiao Qiao humiliating General Lin. He intended to destroy Yongning Canal. At that moment, Yang Feng entered and opposed blowing up the dam, worried about harming innocent civilians. Qiao Yue, however, persuaded Yang Feng not to be bound by trivialities. Realizing their murderous intent, Yang Feng compromised and agreed to help, saying the sulfur explosives must be placed under the load-bearing wall for success.

Liu Shan approved of Yang Feng's suggestion, and Liu Yan allowed him to proceed. Yang Feng greatly admired Qiao Gui, lamenting how Qiao Gui built Yongning Canal for the people's benefit and saw the same spirit in Wei Shao. Yet now he had to destroy the canal and felt deeply ashamed. Yang Feng pulled out a waterway map that concealed a dagger, intending to assassinate Liu Yan.

He was stopped but managed to grab Liu Yan, intending to die with him. Yongning Canal was destroyed, and Yang Feng lost all will to live. Liu Yan, instead of saving Qiao Yue, impaled both of them with a single sword, killing Yang Feng and Qiao Yue together. Wei Xiao requested an audience with Lady Xu. Su Ehuang and Xue Tai led troops to attack Yu Commandery.

Xiao Qiao suggested sending a warning to Wei Shao and proposed allowing willing recruits to join the army voluntarily. Those who wanted to leave could pass through the opened city gates. Lady Xu praised Xiao Qiao’s righteousness and agreed, ordering the changes. She also instructed Wei Xiao to escort Xiao Qiao away. However, Xiao Qiao suddenly went into labor in intense pain. Heavy rain began to fall. As Wei Shao passed through mountainous terrain, rocks suddenly tumbled down, injuring soldiers.

At the same time, Xiao Qiao was giving birth with great difficulty, sweating profusely. As Wei Shao lifted a boulder to rescue a subordinate, Xiao Qiao gave birth after exhausting all her strength. She smiled at the sight of her newborn. Lady Xu and Madam Wei rushed in to see the baby, but news arrived that an army of 100,000 was attacking Yu Commandery.

Xiao Qiao worried that Wei Shao had left 60,000 troops behind in Yu Commandery but feared they were too few to win the battle. Lady Xu comforted her, expressing faith in Wei Shao’s ability. Lady Xu intended to evacuate Madam Wei and Xiao Qiao, but Xiao Qiao refused to leave. She said they were family, and she had promised Wei Shao to protect them. Madam Wei also pleaded to stay.

Lady Xu held her hand and praised her as a worthy Lady Sovereign. The baby smiled, lifting everyone’s spirits. Gongsun Yang reported to Wei Shao that Qiao Yue had been killed, and both Yang Feng and Zhen Zhi were dead. Wei Shao immediately ordered his army to Panyi to stop the destruction of Yongning Canal. But just then, a message from Diao arrived: Su Ehuang and Xue Tai were attacking Yu Commandery, requesting Wei Shao’s aid.

Faced with a difficult choice, Wei Shao recalled Xiao Qiao’s words. Back then, Qiao Gui had to choose between betraying one person or the people. No one could easily make that choice. Wei Shao made up his mind to continue the assault on Panyi. At the city gates, the people demanded to join the battle. None were willing to leave. Xiao Qiao and Lady Xu were present, declaring they would live and die with the people.

As long as the Wei family stood, so would Wei State. The people's morale soared, rallying behind Lady Xu. Wei Qu arrived in Yu Commandery and saw Wei Liang’s body hanging at the city gate. Remembering their time together, Wei Qu broke into tears and mercilessly killed the soldiers guarding Wei Liang’s corpse. He took Wei Liang down, weeping uncontrollably and urging him to wake up so they could return and marry Xiao Tao.

Wrapping Wei Liang’s body in the Wei family’s banner, he carried it with the resolve to fight his way out. Alone, he entered the prison in search of the imprisoned Qiao Ping. During the fight, Wei Qu’s arm was severed, but he refused to give up. Remembering Wei Shao’s command to retrieve Wei Liang’s body and rescue Qiao Ping, he continued fighting with one arm, killed the prison guards, and freed Qiao Ping.

Qiao Ping was now blind and followed Wei Qu out. Just then, the general of Liangya arrived with reinforcements. Wei Qu reminded everyone that Qiao Yue had been killed by Liu Yan and that Qiao Ping was the true master of the region. He urged the soldiers to decide whether to follow a general from Liangya or obey their rightful governor.

Qiao Ping stepped forward, bowed deeply to the soldiers of his own country, and frankly admitted that Qiao Yue's confusion had led to the current state of Yanzhou. The soldiers already respected Qiao Ping, and together they captured the commander of Liangya. Qiao Ping ordered an end to cooperation with Liu Yan, recalled the troops, and arranged for a high-quality coffin to bury Wei Liang. Xue Tai gained an advantage in his first battle at Yu County.

What pleased Su Ehuang even more was that Wei Shao continued leading troops to attack Panyi instead of returning to support Yu County. She hoped to see disappointment on Xiao Qiao’s face. However, Xiao Qiao understood that Wei Shao must have had his reasons for what he did. Madam Xu, righteous as always, chose to support Wei Shao and continued resisting Xue Tai’s forces. The only difficulty was the lack of a capable commander in the city at the moment.

At this time, Wei Yan returned. He had been imprisoned by Chen Pang, but the generals trusted Wei Yan and rescued him, expressing their willingness to follow him and support Yu County. Madam Xu was overjoyed and even knelt to welcome the arriving soldiers. Watching Wei Yan leave with his men, she prayed for their safe return and wished for peace in the world. When Wei Shao led his troops to Panyi, the city gates were wide open.

He entered with his men, finding Bi Zhi alone inside, holding a spear and waiting for him. Bi Zhi confessed that though he didn’t want to fight Wei Shao, he had no choice for the sake of Da Qiao. At that moment, Liu Yan emerged with Da Qiao in custody. Wei Shao understood the dilemma in Bi Zhi’s heart.

Liu Shan had captured Da Qiao and mocked Bi Zhi as nothing more than a beast who obeyed any command under threat. Da Qiao was heartbroken and rebuked Liu Shan for being unfair to Bi Zhi. But in Liu Yan’s eyes, Bi Zhi was a wild animal. Da Qiao kept calling out to Bi Zhi, urging him not to obey those people.

Watching Bi Zhi and Wei Shao fight with all their might, Da Qiao recalled what Xiao Qiao had said when she came to seek help. Da Qiao realized she couldn’t allow Bi Zhi to be manipulated for her sake. Just as Bi Zhi was about to strike Wei Shao, Xiao Qiao shouted loudly, reminding him that he was her beloved, not a beast to be used by others.

Suddenly, Da Qiao broke free from Liu Shan and leapt from the city tower. Bi Zhi tried to catch her, but he was a moment too late. With a smile, Da Qiao looked at Bi Zhi one last time and closed her eyes forever. Bi Zhi held Da Qiao in his arms, crying out in agony, and turned his vengeful gaze toward Liu Yan, vowing to make him pay in blood.

But Liu Yan was unconcerned, convinced that tens of thousands of troops in the city were more than enough to deal with the two of them. Meanwhile, Wei Yan led a force to attack Xue Tai and cut him down from his horse. With Xue Tai dead, the army scattered. The maids began looting and trying to escape.

Su Ehuang, holding a long sword, wanted to kill them, but they believed she was now isolated and powerless and rose up in defiance. They knocked off the mask from Su Ehuang’s face, revealing her disfigured appearance. Just then, a general burst in and killed the women, but unexpectedly, Su Ehuang, thinking he had seen her face, killed him without warning. Before dying, the general told Su Ehuang that he had been sent by Liu Yan.

If the war failed, he was to escort her to safety and had even prepared a new residence for her. In fact, Liu Yan had long known what Su Ehuang looked like but never minded. Su Ehuang recalled what Wei Shao had once said—how she always blamed the world for treating her unfairly, yet all the men around her had treated her sincerely. Overcome with despair, Su Ehuang picked up the sword and held it to her own neck.

Seeing Bi Zhi and Wei Shao locked in a deadly battle, Liu Shan, afraid that Liu Yan would be killed, quickly ordered guards to escort him away. But Liu Yan only remembered the promise he had made to Su Ehuang—to kill Wei Shao. Not wanting any obstacles, Liu Yan killed Liu Shan. When he came to his senses, he realized Bi Zhi and Wei Shao had already arrived.

Liu Yan laughed wildly, declaring that even if he lost, Wei Kingdom was finished. In the end, Liu Yan was slain by Bi Zhi and Wei Shao together. Before he died, Liu Yan’s last thoughts were of Su Ehuang, regretting that he had failed to keep his promise to her. Gao Heng completed the inscription for Yongning Canal. Wei Shao, full of ambition, aimed to bring peace to the world.

Wei Yan had secured Yu County and was heading to Bianzhou to take over as Governor. He bid farewell to Madam Xu, who only wished for peace and harmony between the two countries. Bi Zhi returned to Liangya, looking at the swing where Da Qiao used to sit, recalling the joyful times they shared. The konghou she left behind was still there, but Da Qiao was gone. The three Wei brothers came to pay their respects at Wei Liang’s grave.

Xiao Tao also brought Lan Cao Cao to the tomb and scolded Wei Liang for breaking his promise, saying in the end it was still she who had to propose. Regardless of life or death, she was willing to marry Wei Liang. The four brothers buried small weapons in front of Wei Liang’s grave, as if to keep him company.

As they left, Xiao Tao looked back at the tombstone and seemed to see Wei Liang holding Lan Cao and waving goodbye to her. The Deer Offering Ceremony was about to begin, and everyone had prepared the necessary ritual items. But Wei Shao was nowhere to be found, so Madam Xu was invited to help preside over the ceremony. At that moment, Wei Shao was busy soothing Fei Fei, who was crying non-stop, and he couldn’t bear to leave.

Xiao Qiao came and picked up the child, content with the family’s happiness. Several years later, the Yongning Canal was fully completed, bringing prosperity to the people.