The Romance of Hua Rong 2 Recap, Plot, Synopsis
The Romance of Hua Rong 2 Synopsis
After finding sweet love, Hua Rong marries Island Master Qin Shangcheng, believing they would be together from then on. However, their plans are disrupted by an arranged marriage between her and Duanmu Bai, the heir of Nanhuang.
For the greater good, Hua Rong chooses to keep her marriage hidden. No sooner is the matter with Duanmu Bai resolved than a rival, Chi Hong, appears. To make matters worse, Hua Rong loses her memory. Just as Chi Hong seizes the opportunity to step in, the sweet dynamic between Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng twists into a tangled tug-of-war among four hearts.
Ultimately, Hua Rong overcomes all obstacles to reclaim the love that is rightfully hers.
The Romance of Hua Rong 2 Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In Tianchu, Hua Rong, a free-spirited and benevolent young female knight-errant known as Swordswoman Huahua, embarked on a rescue mission. Believing she heard crying from Yuan Shuang's room in a brothel, Hua Rong donned her mask, declaring it was time for Swordswoman Huahua to act heroically. Inside, she confronted Yuan Shuang about her supposedly "abused and tortured" hands. Yuan Shuang, however, was confused, explaining that she was merely practicing Guqin and had just been singing, not crying.
Misunderstanding this as an insult to her singing, Yuan Shuang screamed for help, causing Hua Rong to attempt an escape. Overwhelmed by the crowd, Hua Rong was about to be caught when Qin Shangcheng, her husband and the renowned Swordman Yunhe, descended from above to rescue her, telling her to hold tight. A year prior, Hua Rong had encountered Qin Shangcheng, the King Pirate, at Tianxian Building, almost becoming his wife of the fort.
It was later revealed that Qin Shangcheng was also her idol, Swordman Yunhe, and together they navigated the perilous Jianghu, eventually falling in love and marrying. As they walked away from the incident, Hua Rong took off her mask, confessing her reluctance to continue as Swordswoman Huahua. She explained that with two establishments, Flower Overflow Building and Flower Shadow Building, it was too easy to mix them up, leading to her past blunders.
Qin Shangcheng playfully blamed the uninspired namesakes, but Hua Rong, despite agreeing, admitted her own lack of Jianghu experience was the real issue, acknowledging that Swordman Yunhe would never make such a simple mistake. Amused, Qin Shangcheng then revealed a surprise: the latest Jianghu scandalous tabloid. Swordman Yunhe retained his top spot, but to Hua Rong’s dismay, Swordswoman Huahua had also made the list, albeit at the very bottom.
Feeling she needed to work harder to even be mentioned on the same page as her idol, Hua Rong vowed to continue her heroic endeavors to truly stand shoulder-to-shoulder with him. Qin Shangcheng gently reassured her, dismissing rankings as fleeting and reminding her that in his heart, she was always number one. Her spirits lifted, they headed home together. Back at their residence, Qin Shangcheng attempted to be intimate with Hua Rong by hiding under her quilt.
Hua Rong, however, firmly pulled him out, reminding him that they must wait for her father to return from the border and for a proper wedding ceremony to take place. She dismissed their previous intimacy as a drunken mistake and told him not to mention it again. Qin Shangcheng, though disappointed, conceded, promising to have breakfast with her the next morning. Later, he was found drinking alone.
His subordinate suggested he either endure the wait or simply turn their ship towards the border for an impromptu "war wedding." Qin Shangcheng rejected this idea, stating that Hua Rong deserved a grand and magnificent wedding on their island, and he would not treat her shabbily. His priority was now to devise a plan to help her father, General Hua, achieve victory and return home. Hua Rong woke from a dream, calling out Qin Shangcheng's name.
She was disappointed to find no breakfast, thinking men were unreliable. Meanwhile, Qin Shangcheng was secretly instructing his subordinates to keep details of his covert mission from Hua Rong and was sending a carrier pigeon. Hua Rong spotted him and inquired about the letter, to which Qin Shangcheng quickly replied it was merely a greeting to her father. She then confronted him about forgetting their breakfast plans, accusing him of being angry with her.
Qin Shangcheng denied it, claiming he had arranged a more elaborate breakfast that wasn't quite ready, and led her to it. Impressed by the spread, Hua Rong said she believed he wasn't angry, but then reminded him of "one thing" he did many times daily. After some thought, Qin Shangcheng finally remembered to say "I love you," much to Hua Rong's delight.
They sweetly fed each other, while his subordinate Qian Dayou observed their interaction, commenting on the endless challenges of dealing with women even after marriage, a sentiment Zhang Xian, who was expecting a child with Hui, did not entirely share. Qian Dayou humorously declared he’d only marry if he found a truly captivating woman, as he found women less interesting than Pai Gow and antiques.
Back on Huarong Island, Qin Shangcheng proudly presented a meticulously decorated room, complete with a baby crib, demonstrating his long-term plans. However, Hua Rong admitted she hadn't envisioned their future so far ahead. Qin Shangcheng, claiming many issues to handle, quickly left, advising her to look around and report any dissatisfactions, leaving Hua Rong wondering about his destination. Finding Qin Shangcheng later, Hua Rong sought his help with the "Outline of Fleet Battle," claiming she had many questions.
Qin Shangcheng handed her his notes, but when she suggested she and Qian Dayou study the island's maritime defense together with his notes, he quickly redirected her to study the outline alone, abruptly leaving. Meanwhile, Zhang Xian and his pregnant wife, Hui, shared a tender moment, with Zhang Xian doting on Hui and their unborn child.
Seeing Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng reassured her she needn't envy others, and reiterated his vision for their future, emphasizing the prepared room with the baby crib. He shared his hopes for two children within three years, even suggesting "Daodao" as their first child's name. Hua Rong found the name strange and, more importantly, reminded him they weren't even married yet, dismissing the idea of instant babies and feeling he was planning for a future without consulting her actual desires.
Hua Rong then confided in Hui, expressing her worry that Qin Shangcheng was taking her for granted and didn't truly understand her. She felt he was distracted and perfunctory, leading her to question if their initial intense love was fading. Hui suggested they were in a "lukewarm period" and, drawing from her own experience with Zhang Xian, advised Hua Rong to get married and pregnant quickly.
Hua Rong briefly imagined a plump, sword-wielding version of herself with a baby but ultimately decided Hui's solution wasn't for her, preferring to find another way. Soon after, while walking with Qian Dayou, Hua Rong intervened when she saw a man brutally beating a young woman named Zhu. After the man yelled at Hua Rong, Qian Dayou stepped in, beat the man, and purchased Zhu's freedom. Grateful and homeless, Zhu asked to follow Qian Dayou.
This, coupled with his recent evasiveness, solidified her suspicion that he was hiding something. Qin Shangcheng, observing her unhappiness, internally apologized, lamenting that the current mission was too dangerous for her, and he had to prioritize her safety. Seven days prior, Qin Shangcheng had rescued a Wan Chi merchant ship, discovering that the hijackers were spies from the Xuanling of South Desolation—the very adversary Hua Rong's father was currently fighting.
Qin Shangcheng immediately sent a letter to General Hua, notifying him of the Xuanling's presence and its potential connection to Mingzhou, fearing it could destabilize the war effort. General Hua subsequently reported the matter to the Emperor, who assigned Officer Wei of Mingzhou Prefecture to oversee the investigation. Qin Shangcheng met with Officer Wei, outlining his theory that the Xuanling were using merchant covers to smuggle goods into Tianchu.
His investigation had pinpointed a suspicious porcelain shop in Mingzhou, run by Ms. Ye, due to its unusually high and erratic shipment patterns. Qin Shangcheng then visited Ms. Ye, confirming her identity as a spy contact using a pre-arranged code. He provided her with the Wan Chi merchant ship's details, arranging for a clandestine shipment.
Ms. Ye later arrived at his residence to inform him of the transaction details: it would take place at the southern town pier, the next midnight. Qin Shangcheng, internally, expressed regret for deceiving Hua Rong but felt it was necessary, as the mission was too perilous for her involvement, and he had to ensure her safety. He left a sleeping Hua Rong to carry out the dangerous mission, silently asking her to wait for his return.
Hua Rong, still bothered by Qin Shangcheng’s distant behavior, discussed her concerns with Zhu, who was now staying with them. Zhu suggested that if someone truly cared, their lies would be for her own good. Meanwhile, Qin Shangcheng's subordinates, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, were secretly working on the wedding room, playing Gobang to pass the time while keeping watch. Hua Rong found them and demanded to know Qin Shangcheng’s whereabouts, growing suspicious of their evasive answers.
Qian Dayou concocted a story about Qin Shangcheng fishing for bass to make her soup, which Zhang Xian reluctantly corroborated. Hua Rong, though unconvinced, decided to put them to work, enlisting them to train her women's army. Later, Qin Shangcheng tried to appease Hua Rong by presenting her with lavish food.
He attempted to explain his earlier encounter by claiming he was at the eastern town market looking for a pair of porcelain dolls for her, but they were out of stock. Hua Rong, however, was not appeased. She sarcastically noted that the "passionate proprietress," Ms. Ye, whom she saw him meeting, probably wasn’t just there to discuss porcelain dolls. Zhu, overhearing, commented that her own father had said similar things before taking a concubine, further fueling Hua Rong's anger.
Qin Shangcheng vehemently swore his sole devotion to Hua Rong, declaring other women vulgar, but Hua Rong demanded to know why he met Ms. Ye in secret and had Qian Dayou cover for him. Zhang Xian, pressured to explain, stammered that only Ms. Ye touched Qin Shangcheng, not the other way around, causing Hua Rong to press for more details on where she touched him.
Zhang Xian feigned a headache and fled to the restroom, with Zhu wryly noting his unusual habit of taking food with him. Exasperated and furious, Hua Rong declared she wouldn't eat and stormed off to her room, calling Qin Shangcheng a bastard for hiding things and letting other women touch him. Qin Shangcheng tried to follow and explain, but Hua Rong refused to listen, telling him to come back only when he had a "perfect lie." Alone, Qin Shangcheng was left to grapple with her anger, unable to reveal the true, dangerous nature of his mission, knowing he had to prioritize her safety.
Episode 2 Recap
Qin Shangcheng was tasked with two missions: escorting a merchant ship back to Mingzhou and investigating the South Desolation Spies. That evening, Qin Shangcheng went to the pier in the south of the city, where Hua Rong secretly followed him and noticed someone else observing Qin Shangcheng, bearing a South Desolation Spy tattoo. Qin Shangcheng, posing as Mr. Wan, inspected a shipment of Tianchu's finest rice, acknowledging that Ms. Ye had kept her word.
Ms. Ye suggested they discuss further details at Wanfu Building after the deal. At that moment, one of Qin Shangcheng's subordinates arrived, announcing they had raided the china shop and secured the name list. Realizing she had been deceived, Ms. Ye identified him as Qin Shangcheng, and a fight ensued. Qin Shangcheng’s forces were superior, and Ms. Ye escaped by jumping into the river. Qin Shangcheng ordered his men to pursue her relentlessly.
Meanwhile, Hua Rong tracked the man with the South Desolation Spy tattoo. When he discovered her, Hua Rong quickly used a honey-trap, admiring his martial arts and agility. The man, calling himself Feng Er, suggested they meet at Tianxiang Restaurant at five in the afternoon. Hua Rong told him to call her Rong. The next day, Qin Shangcheng found Hua Rong distracted in her room. He apologized for neglecting her due to his busy schedule.
Hua Rong brushed it off, pouring him tea, surprising Qin Shangcheng. She mentioned the story of Young's Female Warrior, women generals fighting alongside their husbands, making them legendary couples, hinting that she, as Swordswoman Huahua, wanted to share his burdens. Qin Shangcheng excused himself, claiming he forgot to tell Qian Dayou something, and left. Hua Rong worried their hearts would drift apart. Qin Shangcheng overheard this.
Zhu, with Hua Rong, agreed, adding that men's affections fade faster, and suggested Hua Rong reciprocate Qin Shangcheng's coldness, even if it meant separating. Qin Shangcheng, furious, learned from Qian Dayou that Zhang Xian found new information at the china shop. He ordered Qian Dayou to remove Zhu from Hua Rong’s side, threatening his salary. Qian Dayou offered Zhu money to leave, but Zhu misunderstood, thinking he wanted to marry her, listing her skills.
Hua Rong intervened, declaring Zhu her sworn sister, asserting Zhu would stay, and anyone wanting to send her away would have to go through her. Qian Dayou retreated. Determined to appease Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng bought many items, including custom sugar figurines resembling her, and practiced apologies. Hua Rong watched, amused. Zhu arrived and misinterpreted Qin Shangcheng’s practice as him wanting to flirt with other girls.
Qin Shangcheng denied it, but Hua Rong, winking at him, told him to stop, saying it was normal for him to be busy and she should find her own activities. She left with Zhu to go shopping. Qin Shangcheng’s men thought Hua Rong wasn't angry, but Qin Shangcheng knew her calm exterior hid deeper emotions and planned a grander surprise. Qin Shangcheng went to Tianxiang Restaurant, where his men reported Hua Rong was.
He planned a surprise with fireworks and music but overheard Hua Rong and Zhu discussing meeting "another man." Enraged, Qin Shangcheng decided to wait and see who this rival was. Simultaneously, Qian Dayou bribed Zhu with his jade pendant to get information about Hua Rong. Zhu revealed that Hua Rong deeply loved Qin Shangcheng, despite her anger. Zhu then sold some antique items for ten times the value of the jade pendant.
Qin Shangcheng, annoyed by Qian Dayou's useless information, punished him. Later, Qin Shangcheng intercepted a message from Feng Er to "Dear Rong," inviting her for another secret meeting at Tianxiang Restaurant. Infuriated, Qin Shangcheng rushed back to the restaurant and watched Feng Er flirt with Hua Rong, touching her hand and waist. Hua Rong praised him. Feng Er, sensing a disturbance, suggested they move to his secluded "territory." Hua Rong, wanting to uncover the spy's location, agreed.
Feng Er led her into a secret passage beneath a civilian residence. Inside the hidden lair, Hua Rong incapacitated Feng Er with Knockout Powder. As he collapsed, Feng Er triggered a mechanism that sealed the entrance, trapping Hua Rong inside. Qin Shangcheng and his men, following, realized Hua Rong was gone and found the South Desolation Spy's emblem, confirming a secret passage. Qin Shangcheng entered.
Trapped with the unconscious Feng Er but aware of someone outside, Hua Rong loudly feigned an injury and called for "Mister" to save them, asking who was there. Qin Shangcheng, outside, questioned her about her affection for Feng Er and her "husband" Qin Shangcheng. Hua Rong denied having a husband and declared that she was only feigning interest in Feng Er to investigate the South Desolation Spies for her husband, Qin Shangcheng. Moved, Qin Shangcheng revealed himself.
When Feng Er regained consciousness and shot a poison dart at Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng restrained him, forced him to surrender the antidote, and interrogated him about Ms. Ye and the South Desolation Spies. To protect Hua Rong and allow her to recover, Qin Shangcheng arranged for Mr. Wei, the governor of Mingzhou, to take credit for her rescue. Hua Rong woke up in the state office, believing Mr. Wei saved her and praising him for capturing Feng Er.
Mr. Wei presented her a token, inviting her to participate in future investigations. Thrilled by the prospect of becoming Qin Shangcheng's "colleague," Hua Rong accepted. Qin Shangcheng explained to Mr. Wei his intention to ensure Hua Rong’s recovery and prevent solo missions. He understood Hua Rong's feelings and promised a proper wedding after the mission. Hua Rong, unaware of Qin Shangcheng's true role, told him she felt well and was ready to "fight side by side" with him.
Qin Shangcheng urged her to rest. His men confirmed Ms. Ye had been apprehended. Later, Qian Dayou tried to impress Qin Shangcheng, explaining a Western criminal profiling technique based on a witness's description. He described Hua Rong's ideal man, matching Qin Shangcheng. Qin Shangcheng was pleased but warned against anyone who dared to "covet" Hua Rong, and instructed his men to proceed with their plan.
Episode 3 Recap
Ms. Ye, though captured and bound by Qin Shangcheng, remained defiant, warning him not to celebrate too soon. She asserted that the South Desolation forces would soon return, and then he would understand their true power. Qin Shangcheng, however, simply smiled, displaying a list of South Desolation information. He asserted the need to apprehend the mastermind behind her, then told her that he would not personally escort her as he intended to visit a painting workshop.
He also instructed Zhang Xian to deliberately reveal a flaw in their plan, aiming to cast a long line to catch a bigger fish. Meanwhile, Hua Rong was meticulously arranging her hidden weapons, with Zhu encouraging her, confident that Hua Rong, the most skilled, would succeed that night. Later, Hua Rong, once again dressed as a man, ventured out. Qin Shangcheng secretly followed her, but Zhu spotted him.
Zhu, feeling a sisterly bond with Hua Rong, initially thought Qin Shangcheng was deceiving her and wanted to intervene. However, Qian Dayou stopped her, explaining that Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng had a misunderstanding and resolving it would be beneficial. Zhu, understanding the situation, agreed to keep it a secret, but not without demanding a small benefit from Qian Dayou, whom she playfully embraced.
Hua Rong arrived at the designated location, surprised to find a table laden with all her favorite foods. Suspecting a trap by a South Desolation spy, she drew her sword and performed an elegant dance, captivating Qin Shangcheng, who had been watching hidden. After her performance, Qin Shangcheng emerged from behind, embracing her. Realizing it was him, Hua Rong punched him in frustration. Qin Shangcheng quickly explained the entire scheme.
He knew she wanted to uncover the spies and initially planned to surprise her. However, Hua Rong grew angrier, exasperated that he would conspire with Mr. Wei to put on such a theatrical display, making her dance in circles. She felt that despite their shared experiences, he still didn't truly understand her. Qin Shangcheng clarified that he initially intended to protect her from the insidious tactics of the South Desolation spies.
However, he later realized that her true desire was not protection, but to stand and fight alongside him. He had orchestrated this meeting to openly discuss his vision: he wished for Swordswoman Huahua's heroic reputation to spread across the land, while he would always accompany her, freely roaming the Jianghu and settling grievances together. Hua Rong was pleased by his words, but Qin Shangcheng hinted that his gifts for her extended beyond mere words.
Just as he finished speaking, Ms. Ye returned, bringing her superior and a contingent of South Desolation spies. This was precisely Qin Shangcheng's objective; his men, strategically hidden nearby, sprang into action, successfully dismantling the entire South Desolation stronghold in Mingzhou. This victory was not only a fulfillment of his promise to Mr. Wei but, more importantly, it addressed General Hua's concerns regarding the rear defense, making the South Desolation forces' eventual retreat inevitable.
Qin Shangcheng then presented Hua Rong with a map detailing the Tianchu granaries and the compiled documents on the South Desolation spies. He pledged that from then on, they would face all challenges together as husband and wife. Thrilled, Hua Rong proposed establishing a "fairy spy group" to preempt any future resurgence of South Desolation forces and ensure the Tianchu army's peace of mind. Qin Shangcheng looked at her with admiration, captivated by her beauty and valiant spirit.
Regarding their wedding, he declared his willingness to wait until she was truly ready and happily consented to marry him. However, Hua Rong, having experienced their joint combat, realized she didn't want to wait any longer and wished to become his wife immediately. They passionately embraced, sealing their decision. As everyone prepared to return to Huarong Island, Zhu decided to remain in Mingzhou, believing her help was needed for Hua Rong's newly formed spy group.
Her hardest farewell was to Qian Dayou, to whom she presented a piggy bank, asking him to save money until she returned. Qian Dayou, still holding out for "love at first sight," expressed his disinterest in Zhu, much to Zhang Xian's dismay. On the ship, Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong enjoyed the fresh air, Hua Rong expressing her longing for Huarong Island after their time away. They playfully chased each other, filled with joy.
Back on the island, the inhabitants were busy preparing for their wedding. Qin Shangcheng was determined to give Hua Rong the grandest and most special ceremony. Meanwhile, Hua Rong was busy training her women's army. A new edition of the scandalous tabloid "Jianghu Daily" was released, featuring Hua Rong at the top of the heroines' ranking for eliminating an enemy spy nest.
However, another article reported on "Yunhe's love life" and mentioned a "three-year agreement" between Qin Shangcheng and a female pirate named Chi Hong, suggesting Chi Hong intended to "cut in" now that the agreement had expired. This news visibly upset Hua Rong. Qin Shangcheng had prepared a special lunch for her, with dishes symbolically named to wish for early childbirth and many children, like "Phoenix Nurtures Nine Children," but Hua Rong's spirits remained low.
She abruptly left the meal, causing Qin Shangcheng to discover the tabloid, finally realizing the source of her unhappiness. Qin Shangcheng approached Hua Rong to explain that the "three-year agreement" with Chi Hong was entirely Chi Hong's unilateral wish and meant nothing to him. He vowed never to have such arrangements with any woman.
Hua Rong then questioned how he would treat their daughter, to which Qin Shangcheng affirmed that Hua Rong would always be his priority, and his daughter would never overshadow his love for her. He likened himself to a hermit crab, promising to provide a warm, reliable home, sheltering them from all storms. Yet, Hua Rong remained troubled, revealing her reluctance to have a daughter.
She feared that even the most accomplished women would be constrained by societal expectations, confined to their homes to raise children, losing their freedom and unable to pursue their dreams, citing Tang Chudie's retirement after marriage as an example. She was also dismayed by the bitter detox soup Hui had to drink daily during her pregnancy. After a long night discussing Hua Rong's concerns with Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, Qin Shangcheng finally understood her true apprehension.
He immediately ordered all wedding decorations to be removed from their planned bridal chamber. The next morning, upon hearing the news, Hua Rong feared Qin Shangcheng had misunderstood her and thought she didn't want to marry him. She rushed to his pirate ship to clarify. There, she found that Qin Shangcheng had transformed the vessel into a home, adorned with balloon flowers, her favorite, symbolizing sincere and unchanging love.
Qin Shangcheng then presented her with a pair of calappa crabs, explaining that these "most doting" crabs always stay together, with the male protecting the female in danger, and neither living without the other. He expressed that their love was like that of the calappa crabs, emphasizing that wherever they were together, that would be their home.
He reassured her that marriage, family, or children would never be reasons to bind her; instead, they would be her greatest support and haven. He promised to wait until she shed all her worries and willingly married him. He declared his willingness to sacrifice his own fame for hers, desiring for Swordswoman Huahua to be the one renowned in Jianghu.
Most importantly, he stated that if she did not wish to have children, he would not force her, prioritizing her happiness above all else. He even promised to cherish her even if she aged or changed physically. Deeply moved, Hua Rong embraced him, promising to strive to be his perfect wife.
Later, Hua Rong wrote a letter to her deceased mother, celebrating her recent achievements as Swordswoman Huahua and her journey towards her dreams, dispatching it via her mother's white dove. In a distant land, a South Desolation prince received Hua Rong's annual letter from the same white dove, a creature he had saved years ago.
His subordinate informed him of a peace agreement with Tianchu, leading the prince to lament the failure of their spy mission in Mingzhou and the loss of the Tianchu granaries map. However, he acknowledged Qin Shangcheng's formidable capabilities and the fact that the ancient treasure and Holy Sword were still in Qin Shangcheng's possession.
The prince revealed his father's cunning strategy to "kill two birds with one stone" – securing the Holy Sword and allowing the prince to return to South Desolation. Excited, he reaffirmed his determination to find the "Little dove girl." Back on the ship, Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng playfully attempted to design a unique emblem for their "Yun Hua Hero Couple" identity.
Hua Rong's initial design was cute but lacked grandeur, while Qin Shangcheng's resembled a pirate flag, prompting Hua Rong to joke that it would scare away anyone they tried to help. Eventually, they settled on incorporating the balloon flower into a design featuring a crane carrying a flower, symbolizing both elegance and strength. They began drawing it together, happy in their shared endeavor.
Episode 4 Recap
Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian were excitedly testing out a new waterbed, a special design by Qin Shangcheng. Qian Dayou declared it incredibly comfortable, predicting a harmonious married life for Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong on it. Qin Shangcheng, pleased, revealed he had enhanced the waterbed with various herbs to aid Hua Rong's sleep and promote circulation after her strenuous training. While tidying up, they discovered a letter.
It was from Chi Hong, boldly stating her intent to invade the island, capture Qin Shangcheng, and make him her husband. Zhang Xian anxiously urged Qin Shangcheng to keep this "madwoman's" threat from Hua Rong, but just then, Hua Rong herself walked in. She presented Qin Shangcheng with a handmade sachet, explaining it was to help him relax and sleep better amidst his busy wedding preparations, a gesture he deeply appreciated. Later that night, masked intruders stormed the island.
Qin Shangcheng's forces quickly overpowered them. He suspected they were after the island's treasure, but the intruders surrendered suspiciously fast. Simultaneously, Qian Dayou was knocked unconscious, and Hua Rong was nowhere to be found. Rushing to her room, Qin Shangcheng was quickly overcome by a potent sedative from the flowers on her bed, falling unconscious. He awoke to find himself on a heart-shaped bed of flowers, with "Chi Hong" standing over him.
She announced her plan to prevent his marriage to Hua Rong and made a show of tearing up a marriage contract, threatening Hua Rong if Qin Shangcheng didn't comply. However, Qin Shangcheng immediately recognized the unique touch of his wife and tore off her mask, revealing Hua Rong. Qin Shangcheng confessed he had known it was her all along.
He had identified the non-toxic herbs in the sachet, knowing they would become a powerful sedative when mixed with balloon flower, a technique once used by Tang Chudie. Hua Rong questioned why he hadn't exposed her. He explained he would support anything she wished to do, assuming she was seeking revenge for his initial forceful marriage.
When Hua Rong asked why he had then hesitated, Qin Shangcheng stated that this was the most significant moment of his life, and he wanted to marry her genuinely and honorably. Hua Rong then called for everyone else to emerge, revealing the elaborate surprise. Hua Rong confessed it was all her plan to give him an unforgettable wedding, making up for his regret over her previous escape and the anniversary of her initial elopement.
She wanted their union to be blessed by the sea god, following her Mermaid Tribe's customs, as Qin Shangcheng was a child of the sea, believing it would bind them forever. They then proceeded with a beautiful ceremony, walking a path strewn with flowers and bowing to heaven, parents, and each other. The joyous ceremony was abruptly interrupted by the arrival of an imperial envoy from Tianchu, accompanied by Hua Rong's uncle, bearing an imperial edict.
The edict decreed Hua Rong's marriage to Duanmu Bai, the heir of Mu Palace in South Desolation, to cement a cross-nation alliance. It further commanded her to bring the hidden treasures of the previous dynasty as dowry and depart for South Desolation in two days. Hua Rong's uncle regretfully explained that this was a non-negotiable condition from Duanmu Qingcang for peace, as Tianchu was losing the war, and even the general could not defy the emperor's will.
Qian Dayou loudly protested the marriage and the demand for their treasure. Qin Shangcheng defiantly seized the edict, proclaiming Huarong Island as his and Hua Rong's domain, not subject to Tianchu. He declared that no one, not even the Tianchu emperor, could stop his wedding. He instructed Zhang Xian to escort the imperial envoy and his guards away, then respectfully arranged lodging for Hua Rong's uncle.
He then turned to Hua Rong, reassuring her that no person or event could prevent him from making her his wife. Hua Rong then led Qin Shangcheng to a magical spot illuminated by countless fireflies. She explained that in the Mermaid Tribe's lore, fireflies symbolize ocean blessings; to witness their light on their wedding day promised a bright and splendid married life. She asked him to open her sachet again. Inside, nestled among the herbs, was their true marriage certificate.
Hua Rong explained that her earlier act of tearing up the false contract was because it was not from her true self, and she was annoyed he kept it. She declared her heartfelt desire to marry him. They signed the certificate, officially becoming husband and wife. With the glowing fireflies as witnesses and heaven and earth as their oath, Qin Shangcheng pledged his eternal loyalty and devotion to Hua Rong.
Hua Rong then guided Qin Shangcheng to their prepared bridal chamber, which prominently featured his custom-designed waterbed. She promised to cherish his gift, noting how perfectly suited it was for her, his "mermaid." He, in turn, vowed to savor their special night. She presented him with half of a pair of mermaid jade pendants, a treasured heirloom from her mother meant for her most beloved, hoping her mother's spirit would bless their union.
Qin Shangcheng vowed to guard it and always cherish her. The next morning, Hua Rong felt a blush, embarrassed by her disheveled appearance. Qin Shangcheng tenderly reassured her, telling her not to mind conventions. He declared that her desires and actions would always define propriety, not just on Huarong Island but across the world, adding that he particularly cherished her natural, untamed look. Hua Rong playfully urged him to go practice his martial arts.
He responded with a poetic quip about the brevity of spring nights and a king choosing love over morning court. As he drew a circle on her hand, he promised to hold her heart forever. Hua Rong then inquired about the imperial envoy, and Qin Shangcheng calmly stated he would send them back and handle the political ramifications, urging her to relax and get dressed while he prepared breakfast.
Despite Qin Shangcheng's assurances, Hua Rong remained deeply worried about the consequences of defying the imperial edict. Overriding her guards' attempts to stop her, she sought out her uncle. She pressed him about the hidden truths behind the marriage alliance. Her uncle revealed the grim reality: Tianchu was losing the war against South Desolation, and Tianlu City was on the verge of collapse.
He explained that South Desolation's unexpected offer of peace talks stemmed from their emperor's fear of General Duanmu Qingcang's growing power. Tianchu's emperor had hoped for a hostage exchange—Duanmu Bai for the captured Prince Consort Nie Yuan. However, Duanmu Qingcang, with vast ambition, demanded not only the hostage exchange but also a royal marriage with Hua Rong, along with the treasures of the previous dynasty as dowry.
Hua Rong desperately asked if there was any way to salvage the situation after Qin Shangcheng's defiance. Her uncle confirmed there was, but time was critical, as the diplomatic corps was expected to arrive that very day. Moments later, a messenger announced the arrival of Duanmu Bai. Duanmu Bai and Qin Shangcheng immediately confronted each other, exchanging veiled threats. Qin Shangcheng firmly asserted his authority over his island. Just as their tension escalated, Hua Rong intervened, stopping their impending clash.
Her uncle then bowed to Duanmu Bai, apologizing for any disrespect. As Qin Shangcheng was about to introduce Hua Rong as his wife, she swiftly interrupted, introducing him as her "distant nephew," trained in martial arts by her father and now her personal bodyguard. Qin Shangcheng, though clearly angered, remained silent. Duanmu Bai commented on their surprising family connection, playfully declaring himself Qin Shangcheng's future uncle-in-law.
Hua Rong's uncle quickly stepped in to formally introduce Duanmu Bai and ease the tension. Qin Shangcheng shot Hua Rong a resentful look, but she silently pleaded with him to understand the larger context. After Duanmu Bai and Hua Rong's uncle left to rest, Qin Shangcheng confronted Hua Rong, demanding to know why she had acted without consulting him. He reminded her of his promise to handle the situation and his expectation of her trust.
Hua Rong explained that she had learned of Tianchu's dire military state from her uncle that morning; if peace talks failed, Tianlu City's fall was inevitable. While she enjoyed adventure, she detested war, and seeing a path to peace, she felt compelled to try it. Qin Shangcheng pointed out that her agreement meant their own marriage would have to remain secret.
Hua Rong apologized for introducing him as her nephew, explaining she believed he would understand her need to prioritize peace over personal pride and their romantic relationship. She asked if they could set aside their personal feelings for the greater good. Hurt, Qin Shangcheng questioned if she saw him as a reckless brute who only cared about his ego and romance. Hua Rong tried to clarify her intentions, but he walked away, leaving her heartbroken.
She desperately shook a small bell he had given her, a gift he had promised would make him appear whenever she called, but he did not come, leaving her feeling utterly betrayed. Meanwhile, Qian Dayou and his men were carefully moving the former dynasty's treasures, now designated as Hua Rong's dowry. Duanmu Bai's attendant closely supervised, warning against any theft and stressing that Duanmu Bai would conduct a thorough inventory upon arrival in South Desolation.
Annoyed, Qian Dayou asserted that the treasures belonged to them and their island, questioning why he would steal from himself. Qin Shangcheng intervened, calmly assuring the attendant that he would personally ensure the safe delivery of the treasures to Duanmu Bai. Observing the attendant's keen interest in the treasure, Qin Shangcheng suspected Duanmu Bai had ulterior motives.
Despite his anger at Hua Rong's actions, Qin Shangcheng proceeded with his plans, ordering his men to hasten preparations for their departure in an hour. Hua Rong met her maid, Xiao Hui, who had come to bid her farewell. Hua Rong expressed her sadness, while Xiao Hui, observing Qin Shangcheng's absence, speculated that he was merely being stubborn and proud, unwilling to face Hua Rong after their argument.
Hua Rong, however, feared his anger was genuine, noting he had never stayed away all night before. Xiao Hui, emphasizing that marriage required management, especially with new husbands, presented Hua Rong with a book titled "Thirty-six Stratagems for Taming Husband," a popular guide for married women, hoping it would help her navigate married life. A flashback showed Hua Rong discussing her surprise wedding plans with her friends.
She recounted how her past actions, including misjudging Qin Shangcheng's feelings and her fear of childbirth, had caused him regret. She was determined to make it up to him with an unforgettable wedding, rejecting conventional ideas for something truly "exciting" and "unforgettable."
Episode 5 Recap
Duanmu Bai reprimanded his subordinate, Lan Tian, for being overly deliberate and potentially raising Qin Shangcheng's suspicion about their true objective: the Rapier. He emphasized the importance of following orders and not acting on his own initiative, as their plan to obtain the Rapier was at risk. Lan Tian, however, claimed to be secretly vowing to quickly help find the Rapier so Duanmu Bai could complete his mission and search for "Little White Dove."
Duanmu Bai then asked for any new leads on Little White Dove, whom he described as 19 years old, from Jingcheng, Tianchu, pure, lovely, kind, and possessing a chivalrous heart for the people. Lan Tian reported no new information, requesting more specific details, but Duanmu Bai dismissed him as stupid. Meanwhile, Hua Rong, confident in her mastery of the "36 Stratagems of Mastering Husband," decided to employ a "Honey-trap" with some "Flirting."
To her embarrassment, she accidentally directed these gestures towards Duanmu Bai, who was unimpressed and immediately dismissed her as unsuitable for his "Little White Dove." Hua Rong then spotted Qin Shangcheng. When he ignored her, she attempted a "Ruse of self-injury" by deliberately falling in front of him, hoping he would assist her. Noticing Duanmu Bai approaching, Qin Shangcheng deliberately referred to Hua Rong as his "aunt" and urged her to rest to avoid delaying the royal intermarriage.
Undeterred, Hua Rong vowed to try her remaining 34 stratagems. Hui entrusted Zhang Xian with the safety of Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng, advising him to share his marriage experience with the newlyweds. Zhang Xian, in turn, asked Hui if she had any personal words for him and presented her with a pair of handmade shoes to comfort her swollen feet.
Touched, Hui instructed him to send a daily letter updating her, to always remember her and their child, and most importantly, to ensure his own safety. Their emotional farewell was cut short by Qian Dayou, who rushed Zhang Xian away as the ship was preparing to depart. Qin Shangcheng then gave the order to weigh anchor and set sail.
Qian Dayou proudly described Qin Shangcheng's magnificent wooden ship, especially the luxurious "deluxe room" which Qin Shangcheng had graciously given to Duanmu Bai out of consideration for his journey. Hua Rong, employing a tactic of "carried on a secret affair," surprised everyone by smashing a hole in the wall between her room and Duanmu Bai's.
Qin Shangcheng, to ease the situation, assured Duanmu Bai that Hua Rong, as his "aunt," would be placed in the stern, next to his room, and ordered Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian to repair the damage. Hua Rong questioned why she was placed in the stern while others occupied the bow. Qian Dayou explained that Qin Shangcheng believed she and Duanmu Bai needed to maintain distance before their marriage, as "absence makes the heart grow fonder."
Skeptical, Hua Rong pulled Qian Dayou aside, demanding to know Qin Shangcheng's true intentions. Qian Dayou initially gave vague answers about Qin Shangcheng's genuine love for her, but Hua Rong, frustrated by his evasiveness, threatened to use a "Honey-trap" on Duanmu Bai and blame Qian Dayou for it. Fearing the repercussions, Qian Dayou confessed that Qin Shangcheng was investigating Duanmu Bai's background and motives.
Hua Rong declared this a "battle of honor" for her marriage and resolved to uncover the truth herself. Hua Rong observed Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai sharing tea. Qin Shangcheng, testing Duanmu Bai, asked for his impression of Hua Rong. Duanmu Bai praised Hua Rong as exceptionally talented, refined, and unique among noble ladies, finding her lively, natural, sincere, and pure, an ideal wife.
Noticing Hua Rong listening nearby, Qin Shangcheng deliberately contradicted Duanmu Bai's assessment, claiming Duanmu Bai's "discernment in people" was still lacking. He described Hua Rong as short-tempered and impulsive despite her gentle appearance, likening her to a "little spirited horse" that was difficult to tame. He further compared her to green tea that smells good but tastes bad, advising Duanmu Bai not to pursue her. Enraged, Hua Rong, pretending composure, approached them with a cup of tea.
She accused Qin Shangcheng of "pulling a stunt" and demonstrated the proper way to brew Cuiyun Green Tea, explaining that without the correct method, allowing the tea leaves to "rise and fall three times," the tea would taste bitter and astringent. She subtly rebuked Qin Shangcheng for blaming the tea instead of his own brewing skills. Qin Shangcheng, feigning a need to monitor the course, left Hua Rong to serve Duanmu Bai.
Duanmu Bai tasted the tea Hua Rong prepared and found it exceedingly bitter. Hua Rong, surprised, tasted it herself and realized it was Hui's anti-abortion soup, realizing Qin Shangcheng had tricked her once again. Later that night, Qin Shangcheng discussed the treasure with Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou, explaining that he was counting the items to determine if Duanmu Bai sought all the treasure or a specific piece.
Qian Dayou mentioned Lan Tian’s earlier comment about the Rapier needing to remain whole. Qin Shangcheng deduced that Duanmu Bai likely wanted a particular item and that identifying it would prevent him from stealing it and escaping. Zhang Xian briefly suggested letting Duanmu Bai flee to avert the marriage, but Qian Dayou clarified that the marriage was for peace. Qin Shangcheng affirmed his goal was to prevent the marriage while still securing peace, which required understanding South Desolation's true demands.
Hua Rong interrupted, demanding the treasure list, ostensibly for her dowries. Qin Shangcheng, suspecting her intention to lure Duanmu Bai, dismissed her, stating that such "arduous tasks" for Tianchu and its people were his responsibility. When she accused him of "indecent" behavior and breaking his promise to set aside personal feelings, he playfully invited her to join him in bed, prompting her to leave in frustration, but not before snatching the treasure list.
Qin Shangcheng then ordered Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian to change course to Hai City, landing the next morning. Qian Dayou speculated this was a "double-edged plan" to manage both Duanmu Bai and Hua Rong. Duanmu Bai and Lan Tian discussed the sudden itinerary change and Hua Rong's earlier "test." Duanmu Bai believed Hua Rong had fallen for him, citing her "Flirting," her act of breaking the wall to "contact me privately," and the tea she prepared.
Lan Tian expressed confusion, noting the tea's bitterness. Duanmu Bai explained the tea contained "red bean," a symbol of lovesickness, implying Hua Rong's seemingly "clumsy tactic" was a declaration of deep affection. He concluded that Qin Shangcheng's sudden warmth was merely an attempt to please him on Hua Rong's behalf. Duanmu Bai asserted his plan to "succeed" by winning Hua Rong over. The group docked in Hai City.
Qin Shangcheng apologized to Duanmu Bai for the route change, claiming he foresaw a storm and took "precautions." Qian Dayou added that Qin Shangcheng "spent a lot of money" to purchase Yunhua Yard for Duanmu Bai’s comfort. Hua Rong confronted Qian Dayou again, questioning Qin Shangcheng’s motives for the sudden changes and the Yunhua Yard, whose plaque Qin Shangcheng had personally inscribed to represent "Yunhe and Huahua, the sword-wielding couple."
Qian Dayou swore he knew nothing, leading Hua Rong to resolve to counter Qin Shangcheng's schemes as they unfolded. Lan Tian informed Hua Rong that Duanmu Bai needed her assistance. Hua Rong found Duanmu Bai keenly interested in weapons and antiques. She expressed her own expertise, inherited from her father's military background, which Duanmu Bai acknowledged as ideal.
Hua Rong secretly believed Duanmu Bai had taken her bait, while Duanmu Bai was convinced Hua Rong was blinded by lovesickness for him. While Duanmu Bai was distracted, Qin Shangcheng instructed Qian Dayou to search Duanmu Bai's room for clues. Qian Dayou questioned why Duanmu Bai would leave his room unguarded. Qin Shangcheng explained that some things are so subtle they escape notice, and they must find clues from the "traces and clues."
Qian Dayou discovered "Sea Fluorescent Powder," recognizing it as the same substance Hua Rong had used before, which glows blue when wet in the dark. Later, while inspecting the treasure boxes, Hua Rong observed Duanmu Bai's reaction to a specific box. She offered to grant him any desired item in advance.
Duanmu Bai, attempting a "feint to the east and attack in the west," feigned interest in a "century-old sandalwood board" adorned with "regular script" by the renowned calligrapher Liao Yingzhi, diverting attention from the box. Hua Rong recognized his ploy and planned to use "Truth Incense" on him. Hua Rong offered Duanmu Bai the sandalwood board to smell, but he, aware of her intention, refused and pushed it back to her, claiming its sweet scent matched her.
Hua Rong, who was allergic, then fainted as the incense was turned back on her. Duanmu Bai attempted to open the targeted box, but Qin Shangcheng suddenly appeared. Thwarted, Duanmu Bai secretly marked the box before leaving with Lan Tian, while Qin Shangcheng attended to the unconscious Hua Rong. Qin Shangcheng then instructed his men to locate the marked box using "alcohol spray," which would react with the "Sea Fluorescent Powder" to reveal it.
That night, the room storing the treasures caught fire. Duanmu Bai actively participated in putting out the blaze. Once the fire was extinguished, Duanmu Bai realized his marked box was missing and questioned its whereabouts. Hua Rong, now awake, suspected Duanmu Bai of arson and demanded his cooperation in an investigation, citing the discovery of "flint powder." Duanmu Bai and Lan Tian were furious at the accusation. Qin Shangcheng intervened, asserting that the fire was not Duanmu Bai's doing.
He claimed a group of black-clad men from the "Qing Hong Gang" had stolen four boxes, presenting a Qing Hong Gang token as evidence. He apologized to Duanmu Bai and promised to recover all the treasures within three days. Duanmu Bai accepted the explanation and departed. Hua Rong, still upset, told Qin Shangcheng she didn't want to hear his explanations, as nothing mattered to her.
Qin Shangcheng, recalling Hua Rong's earlier statement about women's words being contradictory, interpreted her words as meaning the opposite. He approached her, declaring that "zero distance is more beautiful" than "distance creating beauty." He playfully called her a "kitten" and offered to comfort her. Hua Rong then described herself as a "stray cat" that no one loves. Qin Shangcheng proposed to "adopt" her.
When she dismissed his answer, he rephrased, saying that with them together, any place is home, and they are a "loving couple." Hua Rong finally softened. Qin Shangcheng apologized for intentionally neglecting her and promised they would resolve any future problems immediately, vowing no "overnight feuds." Hua Rong accepted his apology. He then offered her a massage to relieve her fatigue, specifically on her Hegu point and head, as he had caused her headache. Hua Rong happily accepted.
Hua Rong realized that while the fire was set by Duanmu Bai, the subsequent theft of the boxes was a staged act by Qin Shangcheng and his men, a "stole money in his trust" tactic designed to lure Duanmu Bai. Qin Shangcheng admitted his "small trick," explaining that he couldn't pinpoint Duanmu Bai's desired item among the many treasures, so he had Qian Dayou steal the marked box as bait.
He then revealed his next step: Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou would handle the follow-up, while he and Hua Rong had "more important things to do." He reminded her of their postponed "honeymoon" and revealed that his detour to Hai City was specifically to arrange a "honeymoon" for them. Meanwhile, Duanmu Bai, back in his room, was still trying to locate the Rapier.
Lan Tian complained about their humiliation, but Duanmu Bai asserted that "A great man knows when to yield and when not" and not to worry about temporary setbacks. Lan Tian found Hua Rong's behavior contradictory, arguing for him one moment and trying to arrest him the next. Duanmu Bai dismissed it as her attempt to attract his attention and "stir his emotions," which he found ridiculous as only "Little White Dove" could move him.
He again inquired about Little White Dove, and Lan Tian assured him that top spies had been sent to Jingcheng and news would arrive soon. Lan Tian then voiced concerns about "letter-based romance" potentially leading to "Disappointment in Reality" if the physical person didn't match the imagined ideal. Duanmu Bai refuted this, confident that Little White Dove, as revealed in her letters with her mother, was pure, lovely, and dedicated to peace.
As they spoke, Hua Rong brought them a "health-preserving tea." Duanmu Bai and Lan Tian found it unpalatable, making disgusted faces, while Hua Rong questioned if it was truly that bad.
Episode 6 Recap
Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong were enjoying snacks by the street. Hua Rong jokingly refused to eat Qin Shangcheng's leftovers, then affectionately accepted them, to his delight. He mentioned buying Ruyi Su (lucky pastry) from Fan Building, explaining that a bite for each spouse symbolized a long and successful marriage. Qin Shangcheng urged Hua Rong to save room for more food, stating he needed to help her regain weight after his recent bad behavior had made her thin.
Hua Rong playfully accused him of trying to fatten her up to leave her, declaring she wouldn't eat anything else. Qin Shangcheng then tempted her with the famous sleeping fish soup of Hai City, claiming those who didn't try it would regret it. Hua Rong, swayed, agreed to a small bowl, and they set off. Qin Shangcheng was very familiar with Hai City, his hometown, as his foster father was the chief.
He wanted Hua Rong to see the place where he grew up. He reminisced about his childhood, recalling how his foster father would bring him and his foster mother sleeping fish soup after every sea trip, making it the taste of home in his memory. They visited his old, uninhabited courtyard, which remained just as it was.
Hua Rong asked why he left, and Qin Shangcheng explained that after his foster mother's death, the Black Dragon Gang discovered his foster father's whereabouts. Luckily, his foster father received news in time and took him away before they arrived. Qin Shangcheng showed her the swords his foster father used to teach him swordplay in that very yard, regretting that they left in such a hurry that they couldn't take anything.
Hua Rong comforted him, promising to help him rediscover all his childhood memories. They uncovered many of Qin Shangcheng's childhood treasures, including seashells that still echoed the sound of the sea, which Hua Rong found magical. He also showed her a book of Number Riddles he used to communicate secret codes with his friends. He demonstrated examples like "four five" meaning "it's me" and "five two one" meaning "I love you."
Hua Rong found it fascinating and proposed they adopt it as their secret code. Qin Shangcheng then gave her a unique compass, playfully telling her it was so she wouldn't get lost from being too spoiled by him. He explained that the compass was a pair with a boomerang; normally inconspicuous, it would automatically point to the boomerang if it was within a mile.
Hua Rong, amused, dubbed it "points to man" instead of a compass (a pun on the Chinese "指男针"). Qin Shangcheng regretfully shared that the boomerang was lost during the search for the Black Dragon Gang. Hua Rong, however, remained optimistic, suggesting she could keep the compass on her at all times, hoping it might help them find the boomerang.
Walking hand in hand, Qin Shangcheng recalled his foster mother's belief that water connected to all seas, and splashing water on someone would allow them to feel the longing of his foster father, who was sailing. They used to play a water-sprinkling game to pass the time, and they playfully engaged in it once more. Later that evening, while tidying Hua Rong's clothes, Qin Shangcheng discovered her "Thirty-Six Stratagems for Taming Husbands," realizing her recent antics were calculated.
He mused that he would be ready for her next move. He then took her to make a wish to the full moon, as it was the middle of the month and his foster mother had said wishes made on a full moon were especially potent. Hua Rong wished for eternal unity with Qin Shangcheng, and to her surprise, he accurately guessed her wish, causing her to internally worry if her wish would still come true.
Suddenly, a group of masked assailants appeared. One of them, after being kicked by Qin Shangcheng, revealed herself to be the Sixth Princess, Chu Fengling. She recognized Qin Shangcheng as the King Pirate who had dared to challenge her father, the Emperor, and stated she admired him too much to kill him. She clarified that her target was actually Duanmu Bai, as she intended to prevent the hostage exchange and avoid marrying her fiancé, Nie Yu, whom she deemed unworthy.
Hua Rong, quick to introduce Qin Shangcheng as her nephew to maintain their cover, expressed concern that Chu Fengling might have ulterior motives for staying. However, recalling her book's advice on "playing hard-to-get," which suggested showing magnanimity and indifference when an admirer appeared, Hua Rong agreed to let Chu Fengling stay.
She set two conditions: Chu Fengling must serve as her personal maid and abandon her assassination plans for Duanmu Bai, in return for Hua Rong's promise to help her avoid the arranged marriage to Nie Yu. Chu Fengling happily agreed, playfully suggesting Hua Rong should serve her in private, a notion Hua Rong quickly dismissed.
Qin Shangcheng questioned Hua Rong about the wisdom of keeping such a "spoiled princess" close, but Hua Rong confidently dismissed the threat, comparing Chu Fengling's "little flame" to be far less potent than that of the cunning Butterfly. Meanwhile, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, returning from a failed mission for Qin Shangcheng, stumbled upon Chu Fengling. Mistaking her for a suspicious spy, Qian Dayou demanded she remove her veil.
Upon seeing her face, Qian Dayou was instantly smitten, declaring it love at first sight. Zhang Xian, after snapping Qian Dayou out of his daze, hurried him to report to Qin Shangcheng. They informed Qin Shangcheng that their plan to lure Duanmu Bai into a trap had failed, and the treasure had been stolen by the Qing Hong Gang.
Hua Rong teased Qin Shangcheng about the setback, but he remained unfazed, believing Duanmu Bai would be more anxious than them about the lost treasure. Duanmu Bai, having investigated, revealed that the Qing Hong Gang would be auctioning the stolen treasure at Qing Hong Villa the next day, indicating that their true target was not the treasure itself, but them. They decided to infiltrate the auction under disguise.
Duanmu Bai's subordinate presented a list of deceased individuals whose identities they could assume, including "Jian Lai" and "Jian Wu" of Mei Ying Tower, and "Xie Lingyuan" and "Zhao Yang," the "Death Couple." Qin Shangcheng worried about encountering the real people, to which Duanmu Bai's subordinate bluntly stated that "dead people won't show up," shocking Chu Fengling with their casual talk of death. Duanmu Bai announced they needed one more woman for their team.
Chu Fengling, ever eager to be near Qin Shangcheng, quickly volunteered. She argued that it would be inappropriate for an unmarried Hua Rong to pose as a couple with her 'nephew' (Qin Shangcheng), as this would damage Hua Rong's reputation. Therefore, Chu Fengling offered to 'take the fall' herself and partner with Qin Shangcheng. Hua Rong, testing Qin Shangcheng, asked for his opinion. Qin Shangcheng, understanding her intent to gauge his reaction, strategically deferred to her.
Taking charge, Hua Rong assigned herself and Duanmu Bai to pose as the Mei Ying Tower couple, pairing Qin Shangcheng with Chu Fengling. Duanmu Bai, observing this, mistakenly concluded that Hua Rong still harbored feelings for him. Later, Qin Shangcheng discussed with Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian how to use this opportunity to give Hua Rong a "honeymoon gift" by dealing with the Qing Hong Gang, whom he described as a new, deceptive force engaged in illicit activities.
Hua Rong, meanwhile, reflected on her "Thirty-Six Stratagems," realizing her previous "playing hard-to-get" tactic had been too subtle. She decided on a new strategy, "a velvet paw," which she defined as using gentleness as a facade to present herself as a magnanimous wife, while subtly holding a hidden blade to maintain a morally invincible position. She brought Qin Shangcheng a bowl of sleeping fish soup, hoping to evoke guilt and prompt him to suggest a regrouping.
Qin Shangcheng praised her for being a "model good wife" for bringing him soup despite his feigned anger over her pretending to be with the princess, and even offered to regroup to honor her trust. However, Hua Rong, maintaining her "magnanimous" facade, declared that the current arrangement was "good," dismissing Chu Fengling as merely "a little girl" whom she didn't mind. That night, Chu Fengling appeared at Qin Shangcheng's door, seeking his wisdom on a problem that kept her awake.
She directly asked if he would confess his feelings to someone he liked, to which he affirmed. Emboldened, Chu Fengling boldly proposed marriage to Qin Shangcheng. He pointed out their brief acquaintance, but she countered by citing Hua Rong and Duanmu Bai's arranged engagement, reiterating that her association with Duanmu Bai was merely pretense. Qin Shangcheng, expressing disinterest in becoming a consort, gently declined. Chu Fengling, undeterred, declared her intention to keep trying until he reciprocated her feelings.
Hua Rong, eavesdropping from hiding, accidentally made a noise. Qin Shangcheng quickly covered for her, humorously blaming "mice" that "steal vinegar" (a pun for jealousy) and "climb into my bed," promising to deal with them later. As Chu Fengling left, Qin Shangcheng whispered something to her, which she agreed to. She then jokingly reminded him that he was the first to kick her and compared Hua Rong to a mouse.
Qin Shangcheng asked Hua Rong if she was angry, but she feigned indifference, only expressing curiosity about their private conversation. He told her she would find out tomorrow and asked her to close the door on her way out, which she slammed shut in frustration. Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, observing from a distance, predicted marital strife for Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong due to the princess, with Qian Dayou vowing to "solve" the problem by pursuing Chu Fengling himself.
Separately, Duanmu Bai dismissed Hua Rong's attempts to partner with him as childish and ineffective, comparing her unfavorably to his "Little White Dove." The next morning, Hua Rong, pretending to be unaffected by recent events, attempted to make Qin Shangcheng jealous by ostentatiously doting on Duanmu Bai during breakfast, wiping his face after he ate. Duanmu Bai, aware of her game, advised her to be more discreet.
Qin Shangcheng, noticing her actions, internally commented on her growing boldness in using "borrowed knives" against him. Chu Fengling then arrived with green bean soup for Qin Shangcheng. When he attempted to offer it to Hua Rong, remarking on her "liver fire," Duanmu Bai interjected, presenting Hua Rong with a more luxurious "Spring Abundant Pill," saying green bean soup was beneath the dignity of Mei Ying Tower. Hua Rong happily left with Duanmu Bai, further attempting to provoke Qin Shangcheng.
Later, Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng prepared a time box. Hua Rong placed items representing their shared memories, lamenting the box's small size, which allowed her to include only a few important pieces. She asked Qin Shangcheng what he would contribute. He presented a small porcelain bottle containing balloon flower seeds, explaining that since their memories were too numerous to bury entirely, he chose the seeds because Hua Rong loved balloon flowers, and they symbolized their marriage.
He envisioned digging up the box in ten years with their children, seeing their love blossom, and planting the flowers to reminisce about the past and anticipate the future together. Hua Rong was pleased, telling him he "barely passed the test." Qin Shangcheng then suggested burying the box under a phoenix tree, known as the "tree of love," to symbolize their wish to "be together forever." Hua Rong agreed.
Episode 7 Recap
Disguised, various guests arrived at Qing Hong Gang's auction. Chief Shangguan Hong, expecting people from the scandalous tabloid, noted that while the specific person from the painting hadn't been found, two black-robed individuals with concealed faces were highly suspicious. He anticipated Hua Rong would be difficult to handle, so they had prepared the Eight Treasures Kirin Dagger, confident that with it, Hua Rong would be exposed at the auction regardless of her tricks.
Shangguan Hong began the auction by presenting ten collections, to be sold to the highest bidder with a ten-fold buyout option. The first item was Swordman Yunhe's exclusive hidden weapon, a boomerang, made of black crystal, renowned for its ability to cut through metal and return to its thrower.
Although other attendees dismissed Swordman Yunhe as a hypocritical villain, Hua Rong discreetly used her compass, which had been given to her by Qin Shangcheng and was paired with the boomerang, to confirm its authenticity. Learning from Zhang that Qin Shangcheng was, in fact, Swordman Yunhe, Ling became even more captivated by Qin Shangcheng and bid three thousand tael.
However, Hua Rong outbid her with a ten thousand tael buyout, delighted that her efforts to tame her husband were paying off. She feigned indifference, claiming she simply admired the boomerang's clever design. Shangguan Hong inquired if she knew Swordman Yunhe, which Hua Rong denied. Next, a Gilding Plum Blossom Hairpin was presented. Qian Dayou immediately purchased it for fifty thousand tael.
Hua Rong initially believed Qin Shangcheng had orchestrated this as an apology for their earlier disagreements, further boosting her confidence in her husband-taming skills. However, when the items were presented to their new owners, Shangguan Hong implied the hairpin was for Qian Dayou’s wife, suggesting a "perfect couple." Qin Shangcheng then had Qian Dayou present the hairpin to Ling.
This angered Hua Rong as she realized the hairpin was not for her, but she remembered her strategy to appear unconcerned, a tactic to lure him in. The finale piece was the priceless Eight Treasures Kirin Dagger, once belonging to Hua Rong's father, General Hua Mantian, starting at ten thousand tael. Qin Shangcheng immediately recognized this as Qing Hong Gang's trap to lure Hua Rong and capture them all. Hua Rong bid thirty thousand tael.
Duanmu Bai’s aide suggested acquiring it for the Prince as a valuable trophy. Before Duanmu Bai could bid, Qin Shangcheng offered forty-nine thousand tael, bidding against Hua Rong. Confused by the non-integer bid, Hua Rong remembered their childhood "husband and wife sweet code" where "four nine" signified "it's a trap." She instantly understood Qin Shangcheng was warning her that the Qing Hong Gang was using her father’s dagger to ensnare her.
Duanmu Bai then bid fifty thousand tael, and Qian Dayou, in turn, offered eighty thousand tael. Just as the transaction seemed set, Duanmu Bai's two black-robed subordinates swooped in with a winning bid of one hundred thousand tael. Qing Hong Gang operatives mistakenly concluded that the black-robed bidders were Hua Rong and her accomplice, confident they were after treasure and would make their move that very night. As a gesture of good faith, Qing Hong Gang prepared couple rooms.
Ling expressed her desire to share a room with Qin Shangcheng. Hua Rong and Qian Dayou swiftly intervened, with Hua Rong highlighting Ling’s unmarried status. Ultimately, Hua Rong and Ling were assigned one room, while Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai shared another. In their shared room, Hua Rong and Ling found the bed and even the bath decorated with heart-shaped flower petals.
Ling discovered Hua Rong reading "36 Stratagems for Taming a Husband," mistakenly assuming it was for controlling Duanmu Bai after marriage. Ling was eager to learn tricks to use on Qin Shangcheng, but Hua Rong dismissed the book as superficial and useless. Ling, however, believed Qin Shangcheng was already smitten with her, attributing his gift of the golden hairpin to her confession the previous night. Determined to quash Ling's romantic notions, Hua Rong claimed Qin Shangcheng was a "double-faced" man.
Ling, misinterpreting this as a reference to his dual identity as the Pirate King and Swordman Yunhe, was thrilled, believing him to be a "perfect double-faced lover." She pressed Hua Rong for more details, even viewing Qin Shangcheng's "jealous" nature as a desirable trait—a "must-possess" quality for a good man.
Hua Rong then tried another tactic, stating he often resorted to violence, which Ling interpreted as a sign of his confidence and dominance, cementing her image of him as the "perfect husband." Hua Rong's efforts to paint Qin Shangcheng in a negative light proved utterly futile. Meanwhile, in Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai’s room, Qin Shangcheng questioned Duanmu Bai's bid for the dagger, wondering if he aimed to win Hua Rong's favor.
Duanmu Bai scoffed, asserting that Hua Rong should feel fortunate to marry into Prince Mu's Residence and was, in fact, unworthy of him. Qin Shangcheng retorted that Duanmu Bai was "high-climbing," leading to a heated argument and a staged fight as Qing Hong Gang members approached. Duanmu Bai had intended to use a knockout drug called "Moon Shadow" on Qin Shangcheng for his night operations, but Qin Shangcheng, aware of the plot, feigned unconsciousness.
Later that night, Hua Rong realized the need for honesty and confessed to Ling that Qin Shangcheng was married and deeply in love with his wife. Just then, Qin Shangcheng appeared. He clarified that the golden hairpin was actually bought by Qian Dayou for Ling, clearing Hua Rong’s earlier misunderstanding.
Qin Shangcheng explained that his previous silence was to convey that their relationship didn't require games or power dynamics; her happiness was his priority, and he was content to be "tamed" by her forever. Hua Rong admitted her fear of not being a "qualified wife" after their recent arguments and apologies. Qin Shangcheng reassured her, likening their journey as a couple to her own path to becoming a top heroine—a gradual process of learning and growing together.
They sealed their understanding with a pinky swear, vowing to avoid past mistakes. Qin Shangcheng then revealed his second honeymoon gift: the eradication of the Qing Hong Gang. He explained that he had already planted explosives in the villa and instructed Qian Dayou to deliver the villains to the authorities. Hua Rong then understood that his earlier whispered conversation with Ling had been to procure gunpowder, resolving all her prior misgivings.
While Duanmu Bai's men diverted Qing Hong Gang forces, Duanmu Bai infiltrated the treasure room, deftly disarming its traps and securing the treasures. Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong arrived shortly after, claiming the desired items before Duanmu Bai could. Shangguan Hong, returning to find his stronghold compromised, realized his own guards had been replaced by Qin Shangcheng's disguised men. Isolated, Shangguan Hong resorted to a desperate measure, presenting captured female slaves and threatening their lives unless Hua Rong surrendered.
To save them, Hua Rong agreed to accompany Shangguan Hong. Before leaving, she discreetly passed Qin Shangcheng the compass, knowing it would guide him to her. Shangguan Hong then sprayed Hua Rong with scent elimination powder, confident it would thwart any attempts by Qin Shangcheng, known for his tracking abilities. However, Qin Shangcheng utilized the boomerang Hua Rong had acquired, along with the compass, to track them, rescuing Hua Rong just as Shangguan Hong prepared to kill her.
Hua Rong demanded to know the reason for her attempted assassination and the mastermind behind it. Shangguan Hong revealed he held no personal grudge against her but was acting on orders because Hua Rong intended to save Nie Yu, who "knew things he shouldn't have," and therefore, both Hua Rong and Nie Yu "must die." Refusing to disclose the mastermind, Shangguan Hong fired a gun at Hua Rong.
Qin Shangcheng swiftly pushed her to safety, but sparks from the gun momentarily affected his eyes, causing discomfort. Shangguan Hong then leaped off a cliff. Despite his eyes, Qin Shangcheng eagerly led Hua Rong to witness his honeymoon gift: the explosive demolition of the Qing Hong Villa. The next morning, Qin Shangcheng woke to blurry vision but concealed it from Hua Rong.
Hua Rong, still eager to celebrate their bond, took him to Mingchao Moxuan to have portraits drawn of themselves as an elderly couple, hoping to "experience growing old together." The artist, Hua Sanlang, known for his ability to "touch bones" to depict future appearances, praised Hua Rong’s "round face, tall nose, and full chin," calling her an "outstanding heroine." Hua Sanlang also claimed to discern people's true feelings by "listening," suggesting Qin Shangcheng was preoccupied.
Qin Shangcheng dismissed this, attributing his discomfort to a slight pinch. He then challenged the artist to draw Hua Rong without touching her, relying solely on his "listening" ability. Later, admiring his completed portrait, Hua Rong complimented Qin Shangcheng’s "majestic" appearance even in old age. Qin Shangcheng, in turn, praised Hua Rong's beauty while holding a sword. However, Qin Shangcheng made inaccurate observations about the finished portrait, stirring Hua Rong's suspicion about his eyesight.
Meanwhile, Qian Dayou, finding a "buy one get one free" promotion at a bookstore, bought an excessive number of books, including titles like "Tips for Disciplining Your Girl," "Love Skills Collection," and "Bratty Princess Falls in Love with Me." Zhang questioned his motives, wondering if he was taking the imperial examination. Qian Dayou, however, claimed it was a shrewd business venture to resell the books for profit and to "improve the self-cultivation" of their numerous bachelor pirate brothers. Zhang then realized Qian Dayou was merely using public funds to address his own personal romantic aspirations.
Episode 8 Recap
During breakfast, Hua Rong seemed troubled. Ling assured her not to worry about the female slaves, explaining that she had already arranged for their safe return, covering their travel expenses and providing carriages herself. Ling emphasized that as a follower of Swordman Yunhe, who aids those in need, it was her duty to help. Ling then vowed that she and Qin Shangcheng would protect Hua Rong and uncover the mastermind behind the attacks.
Hua Rong then inquired about Qin Shangcheng's whereabouts. Zhang Xian reported that he and Qin Shangcheng had searched beneath the cliff for a long time but couldn't find Shangguan Hong's body, concluding he must have escaped. Ling speculated that Shangguan Hong, a stranger to Hua Rong, must have been instructed by someone else to repeatedly target her. Just then, Duanmu Bai arrived.
His attendant immediately challenged Qin Shangcheng, asserting that as Duanmu Bai was destined to marry Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng was the outsider who didn't deserve her, especially given his apparent inability to wield the Rapier. Qin Shangcheng calmly observed that since the Rapier was a dowry and would eventually belong to Duanmu Bai, he wondered why Duanmu Bai was so eager and what secret he was hiding.
Duanmu Bai retorted that if it would be his eventually, there was no harm in wanting it now and offered to prove his claim. Hua Rong intervened, advising Duanmu Bai not to try, suggesting his martial arts might not be as proficient as Qin Shangcheng's, a comment that visibly pleased Qin Shangcheng. Later, in his room, Qin Shangcheng was looking at a painting of himself and Hua Rong.
Zhang Xian, noticing he was looking at it upside down, pointed this out. Qin Shangcheng then admitted that his vision was impaired after being injured by Shangguan Hong's hand cannon the previous night. Qian Dayou immediately expressed concern for Qin Shangcheng’s eyes, worrying it might lead to blindness, recalling a similar case. Qin Shangcheng, however, stated he was not yet blind, only experiencing double vision.
He instructed Qian Dayou to find Hua Geng, a legendary physician his foster father had once mentioned, stressing that Hua Rong must not be told, as he didn't want her to worry. That night, Hua Rong pondered Qin Shangcheng's condition, suspecting an eye ailment, likely from saving her. She initially wanted to confront him but realized he was likely hiding it to protect her from worry. She decided it would be better to investigate discreetly first.
Qin Shangcheng, Qian Dayou, and Zhang Xian eventually located Hua Geng in a coffin shop, which Qian Dayou explained was characteristic of the doctor's eccentric practice of treating both the living and the dead. They recognized Hua Geng as Hua Sanlang, the painter from an earlier encounter. Hua Geng, who admitted to once being blind himself before curing his eyes, asked if Qin Shangcheng was there for a similar reason.
After receiving a generous payment from Qin Shangcheng, Hua Geng revealed his unusual cure for eyes injured by saltpetre: a concoction made from the gall bladder of the golden eye snake king, combined with a pair of fresh living human eyes, a procedure that had to be completed within ten days of the injury.
Qin Shangcheng vehemently rejected this "witchcraft," declaring he would rather remain blind than take someone else's eyes, and again warned his companions not to tell Hua Rong. Unbeknownst to them, Hua Rong had secretly followed them and overheard everything. After they left, she approached Hua Geng, inquired about the golden eye snake king, and was told it resided in Meiyin Valley, on the outskirts of Hai City.
He gave her a special "snake powder," cautioning her that the snake king was unique and extremely difficult to find. Back at the mansion, Hua Rong was preoccupied. Ling hurried to tell her that one of the recently rescued female slaves, Xiaoyue, had fainted, and Duanmu Bai was attending to her. Duanmu Bai diagnosed Xiaoyue with "Cold Food Powder" poisoning, explaining it initially caused euphoria but led to addiction, delirium, and internal heat if used long-term.
He suspected Shangguan Hong had added it to their drinking water to control them. Xiaoyue claimed she had been poisoned for less than a month, but Duanmu Bai's examination of her pulse revealed she had been afflicted for at least a month, making him suspicious of her motives. After all the other slaves were treated and sent home, Xiaoyue chose to stay, claiming to be an orphan with no family or home.
Hua Rong, out of compassion, took Xiaoyue in as a sister. Later, Xiaoyue brought a bowl of medicine to Hua Rong, intending to poison her. However, Hua Rong, believing the medicine was for Xiaoyue's recovery, insisted Xiaoyue drink it. Trapped, Xiaoyue feigned a coughing fit and spilled the medicine. Hua Rong then asked Xiaoyue if she knew about Meiyin Valley, revealing her intent to go there. This conversation was overheard by one of Duanmu Bai's subordinates.
Xiaoyue subsequently reported to the Master of the stronghold, informing him of Hua Rong’s plan to find the snake king in Meiyin Valley. It was revealed that the Master of the stronghold was holding Xiaoyue’s twin sister hostage, compelling Xiaoyue to attempt to kill Hua Rong, and he saw Hua Rong's trip as an excellent opportunity to eliminate her. That night, Qin Shangcheng sat by Hua Rong's bedside, watching her sleep.
He gently pulled the blanket over her and whispered his fears, admitting that while he could visualize her every expression even with his eyes closed, he longed to see her more, terrified that soon he would only be able to imagine her face. Hua Rong, secretly awake, shed silent tears, vowing that she would cure his eyes, no matter the sacrifice, so he could see her once more.
The next morning, Qian Dayou discovered poisonous residue (arsenic) in some leftover medicine dregs. Realizing Xiaoyue had been the only one preparing medicine there, he suspected she might have tried to harm Hua Rong. Learning that Hua Rong had left early with Xiaoyue, and seeing the character "Hua" on a medicine packet, Qin Shangcheng deduced that Hua Rong had met Hua Sanlang (Hua Geng) and was likely heading to Meiyin Valley to find the snake king.
Realizing Hua Rong was in grave danger, Qin Shangcheng immediately set off to follow her. In Meiyin Valley, Hua Rong attempted to use the snake powder, but no snakes appeared. Suddenly, Xiaoyue lunged at Hua Rong with a dagger. Hua Rong dodged, and the golden eye snake king appeared. Hua Rong managed to capture the snake, but it bit Xiaoyue.
Hua Rong immediately sucked some of the venom from Xiaoyue’s wound, warning her not to move and promising to find a doctor. Just then, Shangguan Hong appeared with his men and fired an arrow at Hua Rong. Xiaoyue, experiencing a change of heart, shielded Hua Rong and was struck by the arrow. Hua Rong then retaliated with her gun, killing Shangguan Hong.
Surrounded by Shangguan Hong's remaining men, Hua Rong was in dire straits until Duanmu Bai arrived, saving her by incapacitating the attackers. Duanmu Bai sent a message challenging Qin Shangcheng to a fight at Meiyin Cave three miles away, using Hua Rong's alleged kidnapping as leverage. He declared that if Qin Shangcheng won, Hua Rong would be safe, but if he won, he would claim the Rapier.
Qin Shangcheng received the challenge and dispatched Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian to rescue Hua Rong using a compass, while he proceeded to Meiyin Cave. During their duel, Qin Shangcheng, despite his impaired vision, fought skillfully, using defensive tactics to pinpoint Duanmu Bai's movements. He defiantly stated he would never surrender. Duanmu Bai, seeing Qin Shangcheng weakened, urged him to give up the Rapier. Meanwhile, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian successfully located and rescued Hua Rong.
Hua Rong rushed to the cave, intervening just as Qin Shangcheng was about to be injured. As she appeared, Duanmu Bai noticed the "Little White Dove" pendant around her neck, recognizing its significance, and stopped his attack. With Duanmu Bai subdued and the golden eye snake king captured, the group returned to Hua Geng. Hua Rong, resolute in her determination to cure Qin Shangcheng, bravely offered to sacrifice her own eyes for the transplant.
Qian Dayou, however, reminded her that Qin Shangcheng had earlier refused such a brutal method, finding it cruel. As Hua Geng prepared for the gruesome eye removal and transplant, explaining the bloody process, Ling initially volunteered to assist but quickly backed out, leaving Hua Rong to reaffirm her willingness to proceed, even offering "life for life."
Just as Hua Geng was about to administer a sedative to Hua Rong, Duanmu Bai, now recovered, intervened, announcing that he possessed a legitimate and normal method to cure Qin Shangcheng's eyes, thus preventing the barbaric procedure.
Episode 9 Recap
Early in the morning, Qin Shangcheng sat by Hua Rong's bedside. She was blindfolded and believed she had lost her sight. Qin Shangcheng asked her why she had chosen this path. Hua Rong explained that she understood his previous deceptions, but she wished he would understand her too. He had always protected and sacrificed for her, even taking Life-killing Poison (Duoming Ying) to give her the hope of life.
She felt it was her turn to give him the hope of light. However, Qin Shangcheng then removed her blindfold, revealing that he had awakened in time to prevent the eye transplant. He expressed deep regret at the mere thought of what could have happened. Dismayed, Hua Rong wanted to confront Hua Sanlang, but Qin Shangcheng informed her that he had already released the Snake King, rendering Hua Sanlang powerless to proceed.
Still determined, Hua Rong insisted there must be another healer in the world. Qin Shangcheng calmed her, telling her he would take her to a special place. They arrived at Qin Shangcheng’s favorite childhood spot, where watching the tide held a special charm for him. Hua Rong asked him to reveal his true intentions.
He recounted how his adoptive father had brought him there as a child, teaching him to log and build ships, and speaking of healers across the sea who could restore his vision. Excited, Hua Rong urged them to depart immediately. However, Qin Shangcheng gently held her hand, explaining that such a journey would take a year or more.
He confessed that while they could temporarily ignore the conflicts between Tianchu and Nanhuang, he could not be at peace if he were to regain his sight only to witness Tianchu suffering from war. Though once a free pirate, his marriage to Hua Rong meant he could no longer stand idly by. He acknowledged her worries but emphasized his own concern for the people of Tianchu. His only desire was to fulfill their shared wish of protecting Tianchu together.
Understanding his resolve, Hua Rong presented him with an early honeymoon gift: a jade bottle containing strands of both their hair. She explained that according to her mother's people, mermaids living in the deep sea were omnipotent, and wishes placed in such bottles and cast into the ocean would come true. Together, they made a wish, and Hua Rong threw the bottle into the sea, wishing for Qin Shangcheng’s swift recovery, and promising to be his eyes until that day.
Princess Chu Fengling was found drinking, looking troubled, which worried Qian Dayou. She regretted misunderstanding Hua Rong, realizing her deep loyalty, and felt Hua Rong was worthy of being the aunt of the man she adored. Not wanting to disgrace the Qin family, she announced her intention to confront Duanmu Bai. Qian Dayou intervened, suggesting a more strategic approach than mere fighting. Chu Fengling then devised a clever plan.
She had Duanmu Bai tied up and attempted to make him drink "Drunken Immortals" (Xianren Zui), a potent liquor said to make even deities compliant. However, Duanmu Bai outsmarted her; she accidentally drank the concoction herself and promptly vomited onto Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, causing all three to pass out. Later, Duanmu Bai asked Ling where Hua Rong was. Ling indignantly revealed that Hua Rong intended to give her eyes to Qin Shangcheng and had no time for him.
Duanmu Bai, stunned, realized that Hua Rong was the "Little White Dove" he had been searching for. He now understood that his earlier plan to seize the Holy Sword (Shengjian) was largely to avoid a forced marriage to Hua Rong and return to the capital to find Little White Dove. With Little White Dove now found in Hua Rong, there was no need for such drastic measures.
He decided he must now focus on changing Hua Rong's negative impression of him, resolving to win her over properly. He believed that with her love for white and warm smiles, she would surely come to see him differently. Upon their return, Duanmu Bai, having changed into white and offering an innocent smile, approached Hua Rong. He admitted his previous methods were flawed and offered to treat Qin Shangcheng's eyes to make amends.
Qin Shangcheng, despite Hua Rong's apprehensions about Duanmu Bai's motives, agreed, assuring her he could handle any trickery. Hua Rong pressed Duanmu Bai for his true reasons. He revealed he was doing it for someone profoundly important to him, someone who had offered him new hope in his darkest hour, and whom he had only just discovered was by his side.
Qin Shangcheng, overhearing this, suspected that Duanmu Bai had stopped their fight in Meiyin Valley earlier because of Hua Rong. Hua Rong, however, misinterpreted Duanmu Bai's words, believing that he had stopped fighting because Qin Shangcheng had used Cloud Crane Hero's (Yunhe Daxia's) unique techniques, and therefore, Qin Shangcheng must be this important benefactor. During the meticulous treatment, Qin Shangcheng probed Duanmu Bai, noting the complex yet precise acupuncture technique.
When asked why his attitude towards "his aunt" (referring to Hua Rong) was different, Duanmu Bai explained it was because Hua Rong had saved his life multiple times. Qin Shangcheng then directly asked if "his aunt" (Hua Rong) was still the most important person to him. Duanmu Bai, referring to the arranged marriage, claimed Hua Rong was Prince Mu's Heir Princess and thus his most important person.
This confirmed Qin Shangcheng's suspicion that Hua Rong was indeed the person Duanmu Bai referred to. Hua Rong, also seeking clarity, asked Lan Tian about Duanmu Bai's most important person. Lan Tian hinted it was someone connected to a "bird," which Hua Rong again misunderstood, linking it to "Yunhe" (crane, a bird) and solidifying her belief that Qin Shangcheng was Duanmu Bai's secret benefactor.
The treatment was successful, and Duanmu Bai stated that the bandages could be removed in ten days. Hua Rong was filled with joy and thanked him. Duanmu Bai, encouraged by Hua Rong's inquiries about his "important person," believed she was starting to change her opinion of him and eagerly anticipated an opportunity to confess his true feelings. Xiaoyue confessed to Hua Rong that she had lied about her sister.
Her twin sister, Xiaoxing, was still alive but had been sent to Nanhuang by Shangguan Hong to be a courtesan. Xiaoyue begged Hua Rong to take her to Nanhuang to rescue Xiaoxing, offering to be at Hua Rong's disposal afterwards. Hua Rong forgave Xiaoyue, understanding her difficult circumstances, and promised to rescue Xiaoxing, treating her as her own sister. She then pressed Xiaoyue for more information.
Xiaoyue revealed that she and Xiaoxing, along with a dozen other girls, were captured by Shangguan Hong six months prior. They were all poisoned and trained in various skills, including martial arts, flattery, and arts. The skilled ones became assassins, while the beautiful ones were sent to Nanhuang and Tianchu as courtesans or concubines to gather intelligence from officials. When asked about Shangguan Hong’s mastermind, Xiaoyue stated that no one had seen him except Shangguan Hong himself.
Hua Rong concluded that to uncover the true orchestrator, they first needed to find the imperial son-in-law, and that her "Fairy Spy" network could finally be put to use. She told Xiaoyue to rest and recover, reiterating her promise to safely bring Xiaoxing back. Qin Shangcheng’s men, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, learned that he had previously saved Duanmu Bai. They were furious, pointing out that Duanmu Bai had framed Qin Shangcheng and now coveted Hua Rong.
Zhang Xian suggested telling Hua Rong, but Qin Shangcheng dismissed the idea, stating he would handle Duanmu Bai himself, confident in his own superiority in matters of love, even if their martial arts were evenly matched. He then warned them that there was still another person to be wary of, not just Shangguan Hong. He clarified that Shangguan Hong was merely a pawn, and a true mastermind was behind him.
This individual aimed to kill Hua Rong because she was crucial to the marriage alliance intended to exchange for the imperial son-in-law. Since Tianlu City was the final stop before reaching Nanhuang, Qin Shangcheng was certain the mastermind would exploit this last opportunity to strike, necessitating careful preparation. Hua Rong and her companions arrived in Tianlu City, a border defense city that had suffered greatly from the war with Nanhuang.
The locals warmly welcomed them, viewing the impending royal intermarriage as a path to peace. Princess Chu Fengling, however, still harbored reservations about the marriage alliance itself, expressing sorrow that a general's daughter should be forced into such an arrangement. Hua Rong vowed to find a solution that would secure peace without requiring her to marry. Ling, meanwhile, openly declared her affection for Qin Shangcheng, despite Hua Rong’s warnings about unrequited love, asserting her right to pursue destiny.
As Hua Rong and Duanmu Bai were invited to participate in the city's annual Dawn Festival, where it was customary to sprinkle mulberry pollen-based spices on respected individuals, many townspeople voiced their hopes for peace through the union of General Hua's daughter and Heir Duanmu. Qin Shangcheng observed the situation with skepticism, asserting that the marriage might be merely Duanmu Bai's wishful thinking. Duanmu Bai, however, professed his enduring love for Hua Rong, claiming patience would prevail.
Duanmu Bai, keen to win Hua Rong over, learned of a local custom: making a wish at the top of Tianlu Mountain at sunrise during the Dawn Festival would ensure its fulfillment. He planned to confess his feelings to Hua Rong there, hoping to secure not only her acceptance but also the blessings of her friends, despite their obvious hostility towards him.
Meanwhile, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, investigating Duanmu Bai, discovered a collection of Hua Rong's letters to her family and a portrait of her painted by Duanmu Bai. They reported their findings to Qin Shangcheng, expressing concern that Duanmu Bai and Hua Rong might be childhood sweethearts and that Hua Rong could be swayed. Qin Shangcheng, trusting Hua Rong's heart, instructed them to return the items and pretend nothing happened.
Duanmu Bai attempted to curry favor with Hua Rong's friends, offering golden coin oranges to Ling and a traditional Southern Desolation herbal remedy to Zhang Xian for his pregnant wife, Hui, to ensure a safe delivery. Ling, while still intent on confessing to Qin Shangcheng at the festival, was advised by Qian Dayou to wear a distinctive yellow dress and her golden hairpin so Qin Shangcheng could spot her when his sight returned.
Duanmu Bai also offered Ling a remedy for a pimple, showing his uncanny understanding of her desires beyond mere bribes, correctly identifying her longing for a life of adventure and heroes. His efforts were successful in winning superficial cooperation from Hua Rong's friends, who then reported his plans for a "surprise" at the mountain summit to Qin Shangcheng. Qin Shangcheng, suspecting the mastermind behind Shangguan Hong would exploit the Dawn Festival to attack Hua Rong, prepared a countermeasure.
He presented Hua Rong with a unique "Qin Hua Spice," made with wormwood, which he promised to make only for her. The spice's unique blend of bitter and sweet symbolized their journey together, and he vowed that she would be the first person he saw upon regaining his sight. Unbeknownst to them, the mastermind was indeed preparing for Hua Rong’s demise, predicting she would not see the next sunrise.
At the same time, Duanmu Bai, seeing Hua Rong carving a tree with the words "Ten years of travel, ten years of dedication. Be true to myself. Never change my mind until I die," interpreted it as a sign of her long-standing affection for him (Little White Dove) and renewed his determination not to let her down.
Episode 10 Recap
The annual Dawn Festival was a lively affair, filled with celebrations. Duanmu Bai and Hua Rong, known as General Hua Jr. , were present to spread spices and pray for everyone. Duanmu Bai delivered a speech, reflecting on his ten years in Tianchu, considering it his second home, and expressing his heartfelt wish for peace between Tianchu and South Desolation, so that their people would no longer suffer from war.
Next, they were to leave their handprints on a scroll painting. Hua Rong was visibly uncomfortable, prompting Duanmu Bai to remind her that such public appearances would be common after their marriage. Hua Rong, surprised, wondered if he was truly falling for her, but Duanmu Bai only smiled in response. After placing their handprints, they began the spice-spreading ritual.
Hua Rong noticed Duanmu Bai's subordinate hand him a scroll, making her suspect he intended to propose with it, much like Jin Yiwen had, and she resolved to flee as soon as the opportunity arose. Meanwhile, Qin Shangcheng had made his own plans. Ling, curious why Qin would act alone, spotted what she thought was Qin Shangcheng. Upon closer inspection, she realized it was Qian Dayou, disguised in Qin Shangcheng’s clothes and sporting his hairstyle.
Qian Dayou then launched into a series of flowery declarations, comparing Ling to strong wine and professing his deep admiration. Unimpressed, Ling dismissed his words as nonsense and walked away. Zhang Xian, having observed Qian Dayou "flattering the princess" instead of focusing on their mission, reported to Qin Shangcheng, who simply told him to let Qian enjoy himself for a while longer, but to continue keeping watch. As the prayers began, a group of assassins infiltrated the crowd.
Zhang Xian quickly noticed several suspicious individuals focused on Hua Rong and reported to Qin Shangcheng. Qin deduced they were there to disrupt the royal intermarriage and instructed Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou to deal with them discreetly to avoid panic. Qian Dayou, who was initially hoping to confront Ling, saw the assassins and quickly moved Ling to safety before engaging them.
Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian managed to capture the leader of the assassins, but the individual committed suicide by poison, plunging the festival into chaos. Despite the ensuing panic, Qin Shangcheng, using the unique scent of Hua Rong’s rose oil, jasmine extract, and narcissus absolute, located her amidst the crowd and led her away to a secluded spot. Hua Rong’s guard, Yan Qing, apologized for the disaster, but Hua Rong reassured him, mentioning a previous assassination attempt in Hai City.
Qin then instructed Zhang Xian to assist the Vice-City Keeper in calming the citizens and treating the wounded. As dawn approached, Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong reached the mountain top, where they witnessed a breathtaking sunrise. Hua Rong was overjoyed by the beautiful scenery. At this moment, Qin Shangcheng removed his eye patch, finally regaining his sight.
He told Hua Rong he found her by her scent and gazed at her, declaring he saw "a lady more beautiful than the sunrise." They shared a passionate kiss, a moment witnessed by Ling, who had followed them up the mountain, hoping to confess her feelings to Qin Shangcheng. Heartbroken, Ling was told by Qian Dayou that she could never win the affection of someone who didn't love her, just as one couldn't wake someone pretending to be asleep.
He then revealed that Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong had been secretly married for the greater good of Tianchu, a sacrifice for their people. Ling, deeply moved and impressed by their selfless act, decided to let go of her feelings for Qin. Qian Dayou then confessed that the gilt hairpin Qin Shangcheng had given her was actually from him, but he couldn't bring himself to say the words himself. Ling, playfully accepting his intentions, declared him her "playmate."
Moments later, Duanmu Bai arrived at the mountain top, only to see Qin and Hua Rong in their joyful embrace. Though his meticulously prepared painting for a proposal had been rendered useless by the turn of events, he reaffirmed his conviction that once in South Desolation, no one would be able to take his "Little White Dove" from him.
Back with the mission, Wang uncle informed them that the Dawn Festival incident was undoubtedly linked to the royal intermarriage, urging an immediate departure for South Desolation. He also conveyed His Majesty’s directive for the mission to secure a truce, ensure South Desolation's troop withdrawal, and safely bring back the prince consort, Nie Yu. Qin Shangcheng, however, harbored doubts, believing they would not easily relinquish the prince consort and that the journey to South Desolation would be perilous.
Despite his concerns, Wang uncle expressed his unwavering faith in Qin Shangcheng’s leadership. Hua Rong then received a letter from her father, which Wang uncle stated held the key to turning the tide of their mission. Wang uncle also mentioned that for the mission, he had replaced some of the staff with Tianchu soldiers as per His Majesty's orders, a decision Qin Shangcheng readily accepted, considering Wang uncle a trusted ally.
The royal intermarriage mission then embarked on their journey and arrived in South Desolation. Duanmu Bai, returning to his homeland after a decade, expressed his desire for Hua Rong to visit Prince Mu's Residence, suggesting it would soon be her new home. Qin Shangcheng swiftly intervened, stating that until the official marriage, Hua Rong's only home remained Tianchu, thus preventing Duanmu Bai from taking her.
Upon entering South Desolation, the mission was met with hostility, with locals insulting them and attempting to shame them. Qin Shangcheng and his team maintained their composure, acknowledging that two nations at war would inevitably harbor resentment. However, when challenged by a group known as the "Three Swordsmen in the capital," Qin Shangcheng displayed his formidable skills, quickly subduing them all, asserting Tianchu’s dignity and leaving no doubt about his power.
He warned Lieutenant General Zou Yitian, Duanmu Qincang's trusted aide, that next time, those who spoke out of turn would lose more than just teeth. Ling remarked on Qin's enhanced abilities since regaining his sight, while Qian Dayou proudly declared he could do the same. Upon Duanmu Bai's return to Prince Mu's Residence, his father, Duanmu Qincang, questioned him about his ten years as a hostage in Tianchu, probing for any resentment.
Duanmu Bai, demonstrating his maturity, assured his father he was not anxious. Duanmu Qincang then received news of a "victory" from the palace. Duanmu Bai shrewdly deduced that his father’s secret return was for grain supplies, and that Qin Shangcheng’s recent display of force in the city would provoke public hostility in South Desolation towards Tianchu. This, he reasoned, would force their Emperor to supply grains, providing them an opportunity to launch an attack during the peace talks.
Duanmu Qincang praised his son’s intelligence. He acknowledged that Qin Shangcheng was a formidable opponent, and since their objective of obtaining the Rapier had been exposed, he hinted that the royal intermarriage would require a "pawn." That evening, the Tianchu mission was settled into guest rooms, and a banquet was arranged.
However, when Wang uncle inquired about the prince consort's presence, Lieutenant General Zou Yitian claimed Nie Yu was ill and had been moved to the palace for treatment, and thus was unavailable. This raised Qin Shangcheng’s suspicions about South Desolation’s sincerity and Nie Yu's true whereabouts. Wang uncle then planned to use his opportunity to present His Majesty's gifts at the palace that evening to investigate the prince consort's location.
Later, at the banquet, Duanmu Bai publicly declared his love for Hua Rong, referring to her as his "Little White Dove" and presenting her with balloon flowers, which he said symbolized "eternal love" in South Desolation. Hua Rong, however, clarified that in Tianchu, the flower symbolized "hopeless love," and gracefully declined the offering. Unfazed, Duanmu Bai then announced that by imperial edict, his marriage to Hua Rong would take place the very next day.
Hua Rong was furious, accusing Duanmu Bai of disrespect and asserting that the sudden change treated her and their marriage as a mere game and her as a pawn in their political games. To test his sincerity, she demanded a trial marriage.
Meanwhile, Ling and her "Fairy Spy" team, having infiltrated South Desolation with Little Zhu, discovered through their contact "Xing" at a brothel called "Utopia" (an intelligence station established by Shangguan Hong's backer), that the prince consort was indeed being held in Prince Mu's Residence.
Upon learning this crucial information, Qin Shangcheng understood Hua Rong's true intention: the trial marriage was a delay tactic to gain entry into Prince Mu's Residence and rescue Nie Yu, a "kill two birds with one stone" strategy. He agreed to the plan. Duanmu Bai, misinterpreting Hua Rong’s request as a sign of her earnestness to secure their relationship, happily consented to the trial marriage.
Duanmu Qincang, however, saw through Hua Rong's deception and decided to use her plan against her. Duanmu Qincang then confronted Wang uncle, revealing his knowledge of Wang uncle’s treachery: selling Tianchu’s grain distribution map, betraying the prince consort, ordering Shangguan Hong to assassinate Hua Rong at Qinghong Villa to prevent the marriage, and establishing the corrupt "Utopia" intelligence network in the capital.
Duanmu Qincang presented Wang uncle with two choices: cooperate and receive wealth beyond measure, or be killed after learning his identity. Later, Qian Dayou, confident in his charm, was dismayed to find Ling and Little Zhu drinking together in Ling's room, not fighting over him as he had initially hoped. Ling and Little Zhu, having bonded and shared drinks, invited Ling to join the "Fairy Spy" team.
Qian Dayou was then sent to fetch more wine, grumbling about how drinking was bad for his health and caused him trouble. At the end of the night, Qin Shangcheng found Hua Rong still awake. Their quiet moment was interrupted by Zhang Xian and a disguised Qian Dayou, whom Qin Shangcheng lightly chastised for their "clumsy imitation" of guards. Qin also learned that Qian Dayou had gambled and fled after losing to Zhang Xian. Qin sternly reminded them that gambling among brothers harmed their friendship and forbade further such activities.
Episode 11 Recap
Hua Rong, annoyed that Qin Shangcheng was rushing her to bed, confronted him about the upcoming trial marriage. She questioned if he could truly sleep, considering she would be with another man tomorrow. Qin Shangcheng acknowledged her dedication to the bigger picture and her pretense with Duanmu Bai, assuring her he understood her good intentions, yet he couldn't help but feel angry.
Hua Rong then brought up the matter of the "Little White Dove," asking if he had known about the letters earlier. Qin Shangcheng admitted he had, but dismissed Duanmu Bai’s affection as mere "wishful thinking" from an "ignorant fellow," claiming it was not worth mentioning. When Hua Rong suggested he didn't care at all, Qin Shangcheng averted his gaze, mumbling that his eyes were dry from recently recovering his sight.
Hua Rong, however, saw through his excuse, laughing that the "fearless King Pirate" was finally afraid that "the most beautiful and lovely lady in the world" might be snatched away. She mused that if she were in his shoes, discovering a man who secretly adored her for ten years, she would "explode into rage" too. Qin Shangcheng quickly denied any jealousy towards Duanmu Bai, but agreed to discuss their strategy for the following day, promising to follow Hua Rong's lead.
The next morning, Duanmu Bai awaited Hua Rong, pleased that Qin Shangcheng was not accompanying her, which he took as a sign of her sincerity for the trial marriage. Hua Rong declared that she would set the day's tasks, and knowing Duanmu Bai’s close relationship with his grandmother, requested to visit her at the residence. Duanmu Bai gladly agreed.
Hua Rong prepared tea for Duanmu Bai’s grandmother, who set demanding criteria for the brew: it had to be transparent, astringent yet not bitter, light yet not fishy, with fresh leaves, and a specific water temperature. Hua Rong confidently served the tea, and Duanmu Bai praised her skilled "three-nodding Phoenix" technique. The grandmother, though finding it acceptable, only "barely passed" her. Duanmu Bai then reminded Hua Rong of a gift.
Hua Rong, having heard of the grandmother’s fondness for magic, performed a trick called "making something out of nothing," conjuring Qin Shangcheng, Zhang Xian, and Qian Dayou, who offered blessings. During the commotion, Qin Shangcheng subtly informed Hua Rong that their search of Prince Mu's Residence had yielded no trace of the emperor's son-in-law, with only Tianchi Pavilion remaining uninvestigated. Hua Rong then requested permission to visit Tianchi Pavilion, citing its renowned beauty and natural hot springs.
The grandmother agreed, but revealed a family tradition: before marriage, the bride-to-be must bathe in the holy water of Tianchi Pavilion with the groom-to-be to receive ancestral blessings. Duanmu Bai immediately protested, but his grandmother dismissed his objections, asserting it was for his own good. When Duanmu Bai expressed concern that "Little White Dove" might not agree, the grandmother simply stated that it was her own concern. Later, Qin Shangcheng vehemently opposed Hua Rong participating in the bathing ritual.
Hua Rong argued it was their only chance to find the emperor's son-in-law, reminding Qin Shangcheng of his promise to trust her the previous night, accusing him of being two-faced. Qin Shangcheng finally admitted he had been jealous since she proposed the trial marriage. While he understood her objective for the mission, he simply couldn't accept his wife having a trial marriage, let alone bathing with another man. Hua Rong found his jealous side rather endearing.
She reassured him, vowing to report any clues about the emperor's son-in-law immediately and promising that her fly-cutter would be ready if Duanmu Bai made any inappropriate moves. Qin Shangcheng, still reluctant, relented only after Hua Rong reassured him that he was the only man she would ever bathe with. During the bathing ritual, Duanmu Bai tried to reassure Hua Rong that he was an upright gentleman and would not peek.
Hua Rong challenged him to prove it, and he vowed to keep his eyes closed. Meanwhile, Qin Shangcheng, having disguised himself, stealthily entered and playfully splashed water at Duanmu Bai, taking Hua Rong's place. Later, Hua Rong firmly declared to the grandmother that she would remain loyal only to her husband and would not bathe with any man before marriage, in accordance with Tianchu customs.
The grandmother, instead of punishing her, was pleased that Hua Rong had passed the test of loyalty. She explained that if Hua Rong had actually bathed with Duanmu Bai, she would have expelled her for being "indiscreet and disrespectful." As a reward, the grandmother gifted Hua Rong a family heirloom, a jade bracelet, signifying her acceptance of Hua Rong as her granddaughter-in-law. Duanmu Bai, touched, later explained the bracelet's significance to Hua Rong.
Hua Rong, feeling increasingly uneasy about Duanmu Bai’s deepening feelings, resolved to tell him about her marriage to Qin Shangcheng soon after their mission was complete. Hua Rong discovered clues indicating that the emperor's son-in-law, Nie Yu, had been transferred to a place called Utopia. Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong decided against ending the trial marriage prematurely. They reasoned that Utopia was heavily guarded, making rescue impossible without assistance.
Their plan was to continue the trial marriage and subtly use Duanmu Bai's influence to help them rescue Nie Yu. Qin Shangcheng, Zhang Xian, and Qian Dayou proceeded to Utopia to search. At Utopia, Hua Rong and Duanmu Bai engaged in a drinking game of pitch-pot. Suddenly, a dancing girl named Xiao Xing, recognized Duanmu Bai, claiming he had visited Utopia ten years ago. Duanmu Bai denied it and asked the girls to leave.
Meanwhile, Qin Shangcheng's group searched for Nie Yu. Zhang Xian reported no findings, but Qin Shangcheng suspected a secret room. With a little help, they found a wall that had been recently renovated, with fresh dust and a hidden step, indicating a secret door. They quickly opened it and found Nie Yu, poisoned, unable to speak, and gravely injured. Sixth Princess Chu Fengling was also there. She told Nie Yu she would save him first, then end their engagement.
Chu Fengling then urged Qin Shangcheng to inform Hua Rong that it was time to act. As Hua Rong continued the drinking game with Duanmu Bai, she realized she was getting drunk faster than him. She then cunningly discussed Tianchu wedding customs involving musicians and dancers, praising the performers in Utopia and suggesting they be redeemed for her wedding. Duanmu Bai, eager to please, agreed to redeem them all for her.
As Hua Rong was in the process of seeing the redeemed dancers away, Duanmu Bai presented her with a gift: a collection of paintings. He explained that ten years ago, he had rescued a wounded carrier pigeon carrying a letter from a little girl to her mother. Reading her letters had been the happiest part of his life, and the girl became "a light."
He had been searching for his "Little White Dove" for ten years and had finally found her. He then expressed his desire to marry Hua Rong, asking if she would be his "sunshine." Qin Shangcheng dramatically interrupted, asserting, "She will not," and told Duanmu Bai his feelings were merely "wishful thinking." At that moment, Nie Yu was struck by a hidden arrow and collapsed.
General Zou arrived with troops, accusing Qin Shangcheng and his allies of murdering Nie Yu and sabotaging peace talks, ordering their arrest. Hua Rong protested, explaining Nie Yu was hit by a hidden arrow. General Zou dismissed her, stating he was only there to arrest and she could tell her story to the Emperor. Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai tried to intervene, with Duanmu Bai warning General Zou of his father's wrath.
However, General Zou revealed that these were Prince Mu’s orders, and reminded them they were in South Desolation. As the situation escalated, Chu Fengling stepped forward, claiming sole responsibility. She revealed herself as the Sixth Princess of Tianchu, stating it was a family matter regarding Nie Yu's betrayal, and questioned South Desolation's interference. General Zou, undeterred, ordered her arrest. As she was being led away, Chu Fengling discreetly handed Hua Rong a note.
In the aftermath, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian were worried about the Princess's arrest and Nie Yu's death. Hua Rong suggested they leave South Desolation and devise a new plan. Qin Shangcheng, however, believed the Sacred Sword was their ultimate leverage. He decided they should proceed with the wedding as planned and use the Sacred Sword as a bargaining chip to secure the release of Hua Rong and the Princess.
Back at Prince Mu's Residence, Prince Mu received a report confirming the plan to capture Qin Shangcheng and seize the Sacred Sword. Prince Mu was angry at Duanmu Bai for trying to protect Hua Rong, stating that everyone who knew about the Sacred Sword must die, including Hua Rong, for the "greater good."
Duanmu Bai pleaded for Hua Rong’s life, but his father only granted her an exception "just this once," while reiterating that all others must perish, threatening military law for any failure to secure the Sacred Sword. Duanmu Bai, understanding his father's ruthless nature and knowing that Prince Mu would ultimately kill Hua Rong after obtaining the Sacred Sword, feigned compliance while secretly planning to save her.
Prince Mu’s subordinate questioned why he hadn’t informed Duanmu Bai about Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong’s marriage, but Prince Mu dismissed it as unnecessary. On the day of the wedding, Qin Shangcheng met with his "Wang uncle" in a private room to retrieve the Sacred Sword, which he had cleverly hidden within Utopia, anticipating the dangers of South Desolation.
He apologized for not revealing its location earlier, to which Wang uncle calmly replied that it was wise to "hold back a trick or two." After Qin Shangcheng retrieved the Sacred Sword, Wang uncle’s demeanor changed. He revealed his true allegiance, stating he would take the Sacred Sword and, in a chilling offer, promised Qin Shangcheng a "whole body" for old times' sake, indicating his intention to kill him.
Episode 12 Recap
On the day of Hua Rong's arranged trial marriage, she was already dressed while Duanmu Bai arrived to escort the bride. As the sedan chair was carried away, assassins suddenly attacked and seized it. Meanwhile, Princess Ling was anxiously waiting in a room, unaware that the "bride" was actually Qian Dayou in disguise. Qian Dayou then rescued her. Duanmu Bai, having orchestrated the kidnapping to save Hua Rong, believed he was rescuing her.
He was prepared to abandon everything and roam the world with her. However, when he opened the sedan chair, he discovered it was not Hua Rong inside, but the captured Prince, who had been involved in Duanmu Qingcang's schemes. Qin Shangcheng had anticipated the Prince's plot, replacing Hua Rong with him. The captured Prince, now exposed, pleaded for mercy from Qin Shangcheng, blaming avarice and coercion by Duanmu Qingcang.
Qin Shangcheng, however, sternly refused, citing the many victims of the Prince's schemes, including the deceased Prince Consort and the people of Tianchu, and especially Hua Rong, who would never forgive him. The captured Prince then handed Duanmu Bai a letter from Hua Rong. In her letter, Hua Rong returned Duanmu Bai's grandmother's bracelet and explained that she understood his intentions but wanted to prevent further misunderstanding.
She revealed her prior marriage to Qin Shangcheng, stating that her heart held no room for anyone else, and advised Duanmu Bai to forget her. After knocking out the guards, Hua Rong, praised by an impressed Princess Ling as "Swordswoman Huahua," rendezvoused with Qin Shangcheng and the others. As they made their way, a group of archers attacked, nearly hitting Princess Ling before Qian Dayou bravely used his backside to shield her.
Despite the continued pursuit by Duanmu Bai's men, they managed to escape to a farmyard near the city gate. With the entire city under strict lockdown, Hua Rong suggested taking an underground route. Zhang Xian confirmed that Xiao Xing and the other girls rescued from Utopia had already been safely sent out of the city via a secret tunnel.
Hua Rong explained their elaborate plan: through their hidden operatives, they had not only discovered the enemy's grain supply route but also identified Wang Song as a mole. They then cleverly leaked false information to Wang Song, causing him to lower his guard, which ultimately allowed them to dismantle Duanmu Qingcang's entire operation.
Princess Ling, upon finding a will left by the deceased Prince Consort Nie Yu, learned that he initially became a spy to win her favor but later embraced his duty to the country, wishing her to find true love. Princess Ling then bid farewell, stating she would return to Tianchu as the head of the Fairy Spy Corps, with Qian Dayou promising to always be there for her.
With their mission accomplished, Qin Shangcheng led Hua Rong to a riverside for a final, special gift to culminate their honeymoon. Hua Rong delightedly pointed out a rainbow, but Qin Shangcheng revealed an even grander surprise. He recalled the rare phenomenon of a mirage, described in "Travel Notes of Yunhe", which creates illusory images of cities, towers, and trees. While rare elsewhere, mirages appeared frequently in South Desolation.
Qin Shangcheng revealed that he had dispatched his men to research the mirage patterns in South Desolation since their arrival. Having meticulously calculated the precise time and location, their images were now being projected as a mirage across the South Desolation sky. Holding Hua Rong's hand, Qin Shangcheng declared this the day to publicly announce their marriage to all of South Desolation, sealing their declaration with a kiss.
Watching from afar, Duanmu Bai witnessed the mirage of Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong embracing. Recognizing Qin Shangcheng from his earlier appearance in Tianchu and recalling Hua Rong's earlier "rainbow" remark, Duanmu Bai finally understood her strange behavior and the true nature of their relationship. Meanwhile, Duanmu Bai, facing his father, Duanmu Qingcang, accepted responsibility for the defeat in the Tianlu war, attributing it to his own softheartedness and emotional decisions.
When his father prepared to punish him by severing an arm, Lan Tian intervened, offering his life in Duanmu Bai's stead, acknowledging his own negligence in Chu Fengling's rescue. Duanmu Qingcang dismissed Duanmu Bai's "soft heart" as a weakness, but then accepted Duanmu Bai's offer to go to Tianchu as a hostage instead of Lan Tian taking the punishment. Returning to Tianchu City, Hua Rong was overjoyed to reunite with her father, General Hua Mantian.
She presented him with the Eight Treasures Kirin Dagger, which her father recognized as his late wife's cherished possession, stolen by the treacherous Wang Song, a slave trader and traitor to their country. General Hua was delighted to have the dagger back and proud of his daughter, calling her a "swordswoman" and a "great hero."
Though happy for their reunion, General Hua, upholding tradition, insisted that Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong sleep in separate rooms until a formal wedding ceremony could be held to officially "marry off" his precious daughter. He invited Qin Shangcheng to share his spacious room, much to Qin Shangcheng's dismay.
That night, Qin Shangcheng attempted to sneak out of General Hua's room to see Hua Rong but was immediately caught by the General, who, accustomed to light sleep from years of military service, awoke at the slightest disturbance. The next morning, Qin Shangcheng, with the help of Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou, prepared a loving breakfast for Hua Rong. However, General Hua intercepted it, enjoyed the meal himself, and praised Qin Shangcheng, leaving nothing for Hua Rong.
Frustrated, Qin Shangcheng instructed Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou to constantly monitor General Hua's movements. Later, when Hua Rong accompanied her father to the drill ground, Qin Shangcheng followed, desperate to find a moment alone with her. That night, he used sleeping incense on General Hua, confident it would ensure deep sleep. He then slipped into Hua Rong's room, only to have General Hua suddenly appear, seemingly recovered from the incense.
Hua Rong, quickly pushing Qin Shangcheng to hide, feigned being startled by her father's visit. Qin Shangcheng had to leap out the window to return to his own room. Later, he vented his frustration to Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou, lamenting that dealing with a father-in-law was far more challenging than facing formidable enemies. Determined to spend time with Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng decided to shadow her and General Hua during their outing. However, his plan was thwarted when he was ambushed by a group of beggars and drugged.
Episode 13 Recap
General Hua continued to prevent Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong from spending their wedding night together, insisting on a formal ceremony first. The previous night, Qin Shangcheng was caught attempting to sneak into Hua Rong's room. The next morning, Qin Shangcheng, along with Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou, prepared breakfast for Hua Rong, but General Hua was still keeping a close eye on him. Later, Hua Rong found Qin Shangcheng in her bed.
He playfully explained he was there to "warm her bed" and assured her that he had a substitute in his own bed, so her father wouldn't notice. Meanwhile, General Hua, who believed Qin Shangcheng suffered from "sleepwalking" and was trying to 'cure' him, checked Qin Shangcheng's bed and was surprised to find Qian Dayou snoring loudly in his place. Qin Shangcheng later woke up to find himself bound in an unfamiliar room.
A woman named May introduced herself, explaining that she had drugged him with a "strength elimination powder." She confessed that she was captivated by his "handsome, chivalrous, and dashing" appearance on the street and had brought him home for a "romance." She dismissed his mention of having a wife, explaining that her tribe's customs were women-dominated, valuing freedom above traditional marriage, and that a man's willingness was irrelevant.
Qin Shangcheng, however, firmly declared his unwavering loyalty to his wife, urging May to maintain her self-respect. May remained undeterred, asserting that he would eventually come to enjoy himself. Just as she began to unbutton her clothes, Hua Rong and General Hua unexpectedly arrived. General Hua revealed that May's actions were all part of a test for Qin Shangcheng, which he had successfully passed. The group then traveled to Mermaid Bay, the ancestral home of Hua Rong's mother's tribe.
May, who was the tribal matriarch's granddaughter and a descendant of the Mermaid tribe, apologized to Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng for her earlier behavior, which they graciously accepted. General Hua announced that they would hold the formal wedding ceremony there to honor Hua Rong's mother, and May had already prepared the wedding room for them.
He praised the bay's scenic beauty and pleasant climate, suggesting it was an ideal place for young couples, and encouraged Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong to extend their stay for several days. He then playfully hinted that Hua Rong herself was conceived during his stay there with her mother, causing Hua Rong to blush. Qin Shangcheng expressed his gratitude for the thoughtful arrangements. However, General Hua then presented "another test," which immediately drew a protest from Hua Rong.
General Hua clarified that he had received an edict to return to the capital and escort the Sixth Princess. He would be departing the very next morning, leaving him only one night to share a drink with Qin Shangcheng and discuss "men's matters," asking Hua Rong to retire to her room. Hua Rong reluctantly agreed.
That evening, as they shared drinks, General Hua confided in Qin Shangcheng, explaining that his various "tests" were meant to ascertain Qin Shangcheng's true feelings for Hua Rong. He spoke of having witnessed many men change their demeanor after marriage and expressed his deep love and lingering worry for his only daughter as she married.
Qin Shangcheng earnestly reassured him, stating he would willingly face any further trials and vowed to cherish Hua Rong more than his own life, ensuring she would never suffer any slight. General Hua was visibly moved and placed his complete trust in Qin Shangcheng. Meanwhile, that evening, the Sixth Princess shared a drink with Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian.
She lamented the constraints of her royal status and revealed her imminent return to the palace the following day, taking Nie Yu's ashes to their homeland. Qian Dayou, showing his devotion, offered to be her "ride" and take her anywhere she wished. The next morning, the Sixth Princess bid farewell to Hua Rong, expressing her wish to travel with them but acknowledging her duties. Hua Rong reassured her that she would eventually find someone who truly understood and cherished her.
Later that morning, Qian Dayou, who had overslept, received a message from the princess delivered by Zhang Xian, playfully calling him a "little donkey" but implying affection, prompting Qian Dayou to vow to win her heart. Elsewhere, Duanmu Qingcang, stripped of his title as Prince Mu and imprisoned, spoke secretly with his son, Duanmu Bai.
Duanmu Qingcang instructed Duanmu Bai to prioritize obtaining the Holy Sword, entering the secret chamber to retrieve the previous emperor's last will, and, with it, to depose the current incompetent emperor to save their people from turmoil. Duanmu Bai solemnly agreed. After his father was taken away, Duanmu Bai expressed deep remorse for the fallen Lan Tian, whom he considered a brother, blaming his own impulsiveness for Lan Tian's death and the dire situation of their family.
He vowed to take revenge for Lan Tian, rescue his father, and protect the entire Mu family, stating that from then on, he would prioritize obtaining the previous emperor's edict above all else, no longer being swayed by anyone or anything. As General Hua departed for the capital with the Sixth Princess, Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng explored the region.
While having a meal, they overheard a storyteller recounting a tale about the son of the Holy Alliance's Saintess reappearing in Jianghu. The storyteller claimed he was issuing calls for scattered members to attend a Holy Alliance Assembly in Shengcheng to elect a new leader, with the Holy Island Token serving as the admission ticket. Qin Shangcheng was visibly shaken by the news.
Hua Rong urged Qin Shangcheng to investigate his past, but he expressed reluctance, fearing it would disrupt their hard-won peaceful life and his desire to return to Huarong Island to raise a family. Sensing his internal conflict, Hua Rong affectionately tried to reassure him. That night, she told him a legend of a mermaid princess who, after losing her love's memories due to a taboo, bravely broke the curse and reunited with him.
Inspired by the story and Hua Rong’s unwavering support, Qin Shangcheng agreed to put aside his fears and journey to Shengcheng to uncover the truth about his origins. The next morning, as they prepared to leave, their room was suddenly infiltrated by masked assailants demanding the Holy Sword. During the ensuing fierce battle, Hua Rong accidentally fell from a cliff. Qin Shangcheng, without hesitation, leaped after her.
Qin Shangcheng later regained consciousness, desperately calling out for Hua Rong, but she was nowhere to be found. After days of frantic searching, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian located a distraught Qin Shangcheng, who, in his anguish, urged them to continue searching for his wife before collapsing from sheer exhaustion. Upon waking again, Qin Shangcheng was devastated to learn that Hua Rong was still unfound.
He sat alone by the cliff, recalling his promise to General Hua to protect Hua Rong and feeling immense guilt for failing her. Just then, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian discovered Hua Rong's compass. Although damaged by seawater, its needle pointed consistently southeast towards Shengcheng. Qin Shangcheng took this as a deliberate clue left by Hua Rong, affirming their earlier agreement to attend the Holy Alliance Assembly in Shengcheng. He resolved to go there, convinced he would find her.
Meanwhile, Chi Hong consulted Hua Geng, a fortune teller, about her fate with Qin Shangcheng. Hua Geng initially gave vague, unhelpful advice regarding a romantic connection but, under threat of imprisonment, eventually revealed that Hua Rong had fallen from a cliff at Mermaid Bay and was presumed dead. Chi Hong was immediately delighted by this news and generously rewarded Hua Geng. Shortly after, she received a report that a woman had been rescued from the coast.
Episode 14 Recap
Hua Rong regained consciousness to find herself in an unfamiliar setting, her hands bound. She was told she had been rescued by Chi Hong, the renowned Yaksha at Sea. Recognizing Chi Hong as Qin Shangcheng’s formidable rival, Hua Rong quickly concocted a story of amnesia, hoping to escape and find her husband before her true identity was revealed. Chi Hong, intrigued by the seemingly lost woman, summoned Master Hua to assess her.
Master Hua, fortunately not recognizing her as Rong'er, declared Hua Rong to be Chi Hong’s “Lucky Star of Love,” prophesying that Qin Shangcheng would soon be hers. Upon learning that the Holy Alliance Assembly was imminent in Shengcheng and Qin Shangcheng had already departed, Chi Hong decided to set off immediately. Master Hua then informed her that a Holy Island Token was required to attend, currently held by a local bully named Hao Weifeng in Mingzhou City.
Seeing this as an opportunity to both acquire the token and eliminate a villain, Chi Hong agreed to retrieve it. Hua Rong, realizing she couldn't immediately return to Qin Shangcheng, decided to accompany Chi Hong to the assembly, hoping to reunite with him there. She offered her allegiance to Chi Hong as a token of gratitude for saving her life, subtly winking at Master Hua as she spoke.
Pleased, Chi Hong accepted and, noting her supposed memory loss, named her “Crab” (Xiao Xie). Later, at a bustling restaurant, Chi Hong was informed that Hao Weifeng and his ten subordinates were on the second floor. Confident in her prowess, Chi Hong ascended to confront them. Though her subordinate, Xiao Meng, assured Crab of Chi Hong’s skills, Crab grew anxious as the sounds of a fierce battle erupted upstairs.
Rushing up, Crab found Chi Hong had already triumphed and effortlessly seized the Holy Island Token. When an adversary attempted a surprise attack, Crab quickly alerted Chi Hong, saving her from harm. Deeply touched, Chi Hong proposed they become sworn sisters, promising to share everything except men. Crab gladly agreed, and Chi Hong gifted her an identical red fox mask.
Meanwhile, Qin Shangcheng, along with Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou, was in Shengcheng, strategizing to find Hua Rong and dispatching his men to gather intelligence. Chi Hong, observing the arrival of King Pirate’s ship, mused about her enduring fascination with Qin Shangcheng. She recounted that he was the first man to defeat her and see her unmasked face. She found him irresistible, admiring his discerning nature and untamed spirit, determined to conquer him.
Crab, though happy for her sister, playfully suggested Chi Hong deserved a "better man." Chi Hong remained steadfast, expressing gratitude for his wife's demise, believing it was fate's arrangement for them to reunite. As Crab left a restaurant, Qin Shangcheng and his companions arrived, narrowly missing her. From an upper floor, Qin Shangcheng spotted a masked woman remarkably similar to Hua Rong and immediately pursued her. Concurrently, Crab noticed a man in black and discreetly followed him.
Qin Shangcheng's chase, however, led him to Chi Hong, not Hua Rong. Crab’s pursuit of the man in black revealed Duanmu Bai as the mastermind behind recent events, confirming that Prince Mu's Residence was involved. Accidentally making a noise while eavesdropping, she was discovered and pursued by Duanmu Bai. Thinking quickly, Crab feigned amnesia again. Just then, Chi Hong appeared.
Duanmu Bai, recognizing Crab, attempted to manipulate her by claiming she was his fiancée, "Little White Dove," an orphan from Prince Mu's Residence, and presented a mermaid jade pendant as proof of their shared past. Chi Hong scoffed at his story, but Crab, eager to understand her identity, insisted on hearing him out, despite Chi Hong's skepticism. Afterwards, Crab decided to leave, and Chi Hong, supportive, accompanied her.
From a distance, Kong Lin, Duanmu Bai’s master, saw Crab as a strategic asset in their plan to acquire the holy rapier and challenge Qin Shangcheng. Later, contemplating how to warn Qin Shangcheng, Crab learned from Chi Hong that Qin Shangcheng had been sighted, and Xiao Meng was tracking him to Sheng Xin Hotel. Excited, Chi Hong rushed to the hotel. Spotting Qin Shangcheng’s men, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, at the entrance, she anticipated Qin Shangcheng’s escape.
She left Crab at the door, instructing her to wait while she and Xiao Meng attempted to intercept him through a back exit. Seizing the opportunity, Crab entered the hotel alone, but then disappeared, leading Chi Hong to suspect she had been targeted by a scheme. At the Holy Alliance Assembly, Qin Shangcheng spotted a masked dancer whom he instantly recognized as Hua Rong. Overcome with emotion, he rushed to embrace her.
However, Hua Rong, seemingly under Duanmu Bai’s control, coldly demanded the holy rapier and stabbed him. Chi Hong, witnessing this, tried to intervene, but Hua Rong, appearing utterly changed, fiercely broke free and departed. Recovering from the attack, Qin Shangcheng and his men deduced that Hua Rong was suffering from amnesia, likely manipulated by Duanmu Bai. Suspecting Duanmu Bai’s scheme, Qin Shangcheng arranged a meeting with Hua Rong at Taoyuan Residence.
Hua Rong, convinced she was Duanmu Bai’s fiancée, confronted Qin Shangcheng at Taoyuan Residence, attempting to seize the holy rapier. Realizing her martial skills were inferior, she shifted tactics, questioning him about "Rong" and her past. This emotional appeal caused Qin Shangcheng to hesitate. She then suggested a deal: she would help him win the alliance leadership if he promised her the holy rapier. Qin Shangcheng, seeing an opportunity to help her recover, accepted.
He followed her out and later confronted Duanmu Bai, beating him and challenging him to seek the holy rapier honorably instead of manipulating Hua Rong. Meanwhile, Chi Hong discovered Hua Rong’s dropped mask, confirming her suspicions of manipulation. She confronted Qin Shangcheng, asking if Crab was indeed his wife, Hua Rong. Qin Shangcheng, wanting to protect Hua Rong from further harm, denied it.
Under Kong Lin’s directive, the first assessment task for the alliance leadership was announced: forming male-female teams to brew "Golden Wind and Jade Dew" wine, a concoction necessary to brave the miasma-laden Imperial Island. Qin Shangcheng immediately approached Hua Rong to be his partner, solidifying their agreement regarding the holy rapier once he became the alliance leader. Chi Hong also sought to team with Qin Shangcheng but was too late, forcing her to reluctantly partner with Duanmu Bai.
Later, Chi Hong, consulting Crab on makeup, expressed her desire to captivate King Pirate with her unique, "unconventional" style. Crab, playing along, humorously suggested King Pirate might prefer a more subdued look, but Chi Hong confidently declared her intent to make him appreciate her distinctive flair.
Episode 15 Recap
Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong, who is currently operating under the persona of White Dove, continued their search for the Imperial Eagle. White Dove grew impatient with Qin Shangcheng's seemingly aimless wandering, suspecting he was merely wasting time and not seriously committed to their task. Qin Shangcheng countered, questioning her true objective as well. White Dove secretly intended to use an anesthetic arrow to incapacitate him, allowing her to seize the Rapier. Qin Shangcheng, however, appeared to anticipate her move.
Later, Qin Shangcheng’s subordinates, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, attempted a "Visual Stimulus Treatment of Scene Reduction" to jog White Dove's memory. Zhang Xian pretended to be bitten by a snake, calling out to Hua Rong for help. White Dove, seeing through the act, scathingly called them "idiots" and "maniacs," rendering their efforts ineffective. Qian Dayou, undeterred, assured Qin Shangcheng that he had an "absolutely reliable" backup plan, prompting Qin Shangcheng to grant him one more chance.
Meanwhile, Chi Hong confronted Duanmu Bai about Xiaoxie’s mysterious disappearance from Sheng Xin Hotel and her sudden memory recovery. Duanmu Bai deflected, stating it was none of Chi Hong’s concern. Chi Hong insisted on her right to know, reminding him that Xiaoxie was her sworn sister and accusing him of hiding something. She challenged him to look her in the eyes and allow her to feel his heartbeat as he answered her question: was Xiaoxie his fiancée?
Duanmu Bai's heart raced under her touch, and he quickly pushed her hand away, calling it a "boring trick." Chi Hong, observing his discomfort, accused him of having a guilty conscience. Exasperated, Duanmu Bai ended their conversation, saying they would continue searching for the Imperial Feather the next day, and Chi Hong declared she would go alone. Qin Shangcheng and White Dove later arrived at a wind chime tree.
Qin Shangcheng recalled Qian Dayou's advice about using cherished objects to awaken memories and remembered a past promise to Hua Rong that he would appear whenever she rang the bell. White Dove seemed to react to the wind chimes, experiencing fragmented memories. Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, hidden behind the tree, were ringing bells, believing their "Scene Stimulus Treatment" was working. However, Chi Hong discovered them and confronted them angrily.
In the commotion, White Dove tried to shoot an arrow at Qin Shangcheng, but he dodged, and the anesthetic arrow struck Chi Hong instead, knocking her unconscious. Back at the inn, a recovered Chi Hong accused Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian of tricking her, punching them again when they evasively denied it. Qin Shangcheng, meanwhile, feigned drunkenness outside, calling out "Rong, I'm sorry." White Dove, hoping to find the Rapier, approached him, but he didn't have it.
She then entered his room and found familiar throwing knives and a portrait. Qin Shangcheng followed her, telling her, "Now, you may remember that you are Rong." He presented his Mermaid Jade Pendant, explaining it was their love token and that she wore an identical one. White Dove, however, recalled Duanmu Bai's earlier claim that the jade pendant was "their" engagement token, and she angrily rejected Qin Shangcheng, calling him despicable.
Later, Chi Hong summoned Duanmu Bai to her room, where she performed a dance, attempting a "honey trap" to extract the truth from him. Duanmu Bai initially resisted, telling her she had "the charm of a fox" but was "not a master yet," and therefore ineffective on him. He left, but his changed expression outside suggested he was more affected than he let on.
Qin Shangcheng, growing desperate, was convinced by Qian Dayou to try a "Desperate Stimulus Treatment," a long-lost method. This involved making the amnesiac person witness their loved one in dire peril to intensely stimulate their brain and restore memory. White Dove, still under Duanmu Bai's influence, set a trap, believing Qin Shangcheng "will be doomed," and led him to a suspected Imperial Eagle's nest in a cave.
Qin Shangcheng, aware of her trap but willing to gamble, deliberately fell into it. Seeing him in danger triggered Hua Rong's memories, particularly of her own fall from a cliff. She remembered Qin Shangcheng and bravely jumped in to save him. Once safe, Hua Rong revealed that after her fall at Mermaid Bay, she was found by Chi Hong and not truly amnesiac.
Instead, she had been "hypnotized" by the man behind Duanmu Bai, who forced a "non-existent memory" of being White Dove into her mind. She explained that she and White Dove now co-exist in her body, with White Dove often suppressing her true self, and she feared reverting back if she slept. Qin Shangcheng vowed to find the culprit and restore her fully, and Hua Rong expressed her faith in him. They then shared a tender moment, admiring fireflies.
However, after falling asleep in the trap, Hua Rong did indeed revert to the White Dove persona. She angrily confronted Qin Shangcheng, accusing him of being a "Lothario" and denying she was Rong. Qin Shangcheng's men, confused, discussed her dual identity. Chi Hong, meanwhile, had interrogated Qin Shangcheng's men, learning Hua Rong's true identity as Qin Shangcheng’s wife.
Realizing this, Chi Hong declared Qin Shangcheng "out of her list," unwilling to pursue her sworn sister's man, and refocused her anger on Duanmu Bai for his deception. Chi Hong later attempted to tell White Dove her true identity, but White Dove remained adamant that she was White Dove, Duanmu Bai’s fiancée, and accused Chi Hong of being misled.
Qin Shangcheng's men proposed a new plan: since Hua Rong loved Qin Shangcheng and White Dove did not, they should make White Dove fall in love with him too, hoping to merge the two personalities. Qian Dayou tried to win White Dove over by describing Qin Shangcheng as the formidable King Pirate—handsome, rich, and a martial arts master—promising her a life of power.
White Dove, however, found the display "boring" and walked away, reminding Qin Shangcheng of his mission to acquire the Imperial Feather. Qin Shangcheng then tried to appeal to White Dove’s presumed inherent kindness by proposing they care for the Imperial Eagle’s egg, which was close to hatching. However, his men's attempts to use a hen to hatch the egg proved chaotic and unsuccessful.
Frustrated by these failures and White Dove’s continued allegiance to Duanmu Bai, Qin Shangcheng realized he needed outside help. He sought out Chi Hong. Meanwhile, Duanmu Bai and Chi Hong had resumed their search for the Imperial Feather. When the feather fell into a cliff, Chi Hong challenged Duanmu Bai to retrieve it. As he descended, during the struggle, she lost her footing and fell. Duanmu Bai caught her, discovering her secret fear of heights.
A struggle ensued, causing them both to fall further, and Chi Hong accidentally kissed him. Duanmu Bai pushed her away and, finding her unconscious, carried her into a cave, giving her a "Refreshing Pill" for her "poor mental condition." After Chi Hong recovered in the cave, she complained about the bitter pill but acknowledged its invigorating effect. Duanmu Bai told her he had already retrieved the Imperial Feather and they could return.
Later, when Qin Shangcheng approached Chi Hong for help, she, motivated by her pledge to ensure Xiaoxie's happiness and her anger at Duanmu Bai, agreed to assist him with his plan for that night, confident in her judgment of men. Elsewhere, Duanmu Bai discussed Chi Hong with his subordinate, intending to make her "shrink back from difficulties," and subtly reminded White Dove of her mission. Chi Hong also attempted to impose a comical "husband's code" on Duanmu Bai, which accidentally included intimate duties copied from a romance novel, further highlighting their contentious and evolving relationship.
Episode 16 Recap
Chi Hong invited Duanmu Bai for drinks, feigning affection, but he playfully mistook it for an eye discomfort. Chi Hong clarified that she invited him to apologize for misjudging him. Duanmu Bai initially declined the wine, citing it as a critical period for brewing. Chi Hong admitted the wine's aroma tempted her and that she felt alone on the island since Rong, her "congenial sister," had been "taken" by him, so she could only think of him to drink with.
Duanmu Bai agreed. As planned with Qin Shangcheng, Chi Hong, a heavy drinker, easily outdrank Duanmu Bai, who eventually fell asleep. She internally gloated about her superior drinking capacity and her intention to "kill him" after their current scheme. Qin Shangcheng led Rong to the highest point of the Icy Building under the pretense of "enjoying the cool air," where they "coincidentally" witnessed Chi Hong pretending to kiss the unconscious Duanmu Bai.
However, Rong remained unimpressed, dismissively labeling the whole spectacle "boring" and walking away. Duanmu Bai later woke up and, to Chi Hong's surprise, reciprocated the kiss, asserting that he never takes advantage of anyone and was merely returning a kiss she had given him previously under a cliff. Chi Hong questioned when she had ever kissed him.
When he confirmed it was under the cliff, she, still holding a sword, angrily demanded to know the true nature of his relationship with Rong. Duanmu Bai reluctantly admitted, "I had no choice." Qin Shangcheng followed Rong, attempting to gauge her feelings. He directly questioned if she felt any jealousy or anger seeing Duanmu Bai kiss another woman.
When she showed none, he asserted that her supposed engagement to Duanmu Bai was merely a task, and she did not truly love him. He then passionately described true love, saying that one would smile when seeing the one he loves, feeling despair when he's gone, and being willing to sacrifice everything for him, emphasizing that her heart would beat in unison with his. He vowed to melt her seemingly "icy" heart.
Rong brushed off his advances, telling him to stop wasting his efforts, saying that like the unhatched eagle egg, all his "tricks" hadn't achieved anything. Just then, Qian Dayou burst in with the news that Zhang Xian had successfully hatched the eagle egg. Qin Shangcheng and Rong observed the newly hatched baby eagle. Qin Shangcheng found it adorable and suggested Rong name it.
She spontaneously chose "Daodao," which surprised Qin Shangcheng as it was the very nickname he had once proposed for their first child, a suggestion Rong had found peculiar at the time. Rong then commented that with Daodao hatched, obtaining the Imperial Feather was "around the corner," meaning they could soon enter Imperial Island, and that Qin Shangcheng would stop pestering her with excuses. Qin Shangcheng proposed another bet: they would meet the following afternoon in the suburban forest.
If she still felt absolutely nothing for him then, he promised never to bother her again. Rong agreed. Duanmu Bai woke up and, noticing he was covered with a cloak, hoped he hadn't done anything inappropriate to jeopardize his "business." Meanwhile, Chi Hong was also reflecting on the night, particularly the kiss, and smiled. The next day, in the suburban forest, Qin Shangcheng appeared with a new look, having changed both his clothes and hairstyle.
He formally introduced himself as "Yunhe," declaring it a perfect match for her "Little White Dove." Despite Rong's dismissive remarks, Qin Shangcheng then demonstrated Yunhe's specialty: flying. He took her soaring through the air, an experience that left Rong feeling "never before so relaxed." Qin Shangcheng told her that from such a high vantage point, the things that confined her would appear utterly insignificant. Qin Shangcheng gave the Rapier to Rong, which stunned her.
He reminded her that her mission was to find the Rapier for Duanmu Bai. He promised to give her anything she desired but affirmed he would never force her to make any choices. She returned the Rapier to Qin Shangcheng because she wanted to help him win the leadership, and expressed her hope that he would also keep his promises. Qin Shangcheng continued fostering his relationship with Rong by jointly caring for the baby eagle, Daodao.
He also jokingly instructed Daodao to help him please his "mother." Observing Rong's softening demeanor and growing closeness to Qin Shangcheng, Duanmu Bai intervened. He questioned if she truly believed Qin Shangcheng loved her, revealing that her resemblance to Qin Shangcheng's deceased wife, Hua Rong, was the sole reason she was chosen for her mission. He stated that she was "nothing but his wife's substitute."
Later, as Qin Shangcheng released Daodao to find his real parents, he saw Rong approaching, dressed in the attire of his deceased wife, Hua Rong. Overjoyed, and believing she had finally regained her memories, he rushed to embrace her. However, his raw emotional reaction served only to confirm Duanmu Bai's words in Rong's mind.
She pulled away, accusing him of seeing her only as a substitute for his "dead wife," Hua Rong, and declared that he had "never truly liked" her as "White Dove" and that "from now on, there's nothing left between us except for the Rapier." Realizing her misunderstanding, Qin Shangcheng tried to explain that she was not a substitute but was, in fact, the real Hua Rong.
He asserted that everything he had told her came from his heart, and that her current memories were "fake," forcibly instilled by others. Rong, however, refused to believe him. Qin Shangcheng, deeply hurt, could only plead with her to wait, promising that she would eventually realize the truth.
He vowed that he would never change, and regardless of whether she identified as Hua Rong or White Dove, he would always be there for her, symbolized by the ringing of a bell. The first round of the exam concluded, with Chi Hong and Duanmu Bai's teams and Qin Shangcheng and Rong's teams qualifying for the second assessment. Chi Hong contemplated how to navigate seeing Duanmu Bai, Qin Shangcheng, and Rong at the upcoming Imperial Alliance.
Her assistant proposed she return Rong's personal boomerang, offering a convenient excuse to speak with Rong while avoiding an "embarrassed" situation with Duanmu Bai. Chi Hong agreed, and upon returning the boomerang, advised Rong to protect herself in the dangerous next exam and encouraged her to believe that she was, in fact, Hua Rong, and that she and Qin Shangcheng were "meant to be a couple."
As Chi Hong saw Duanmu Bai approaching, she questioned why he ignored her, challenging his lack of greetings as a former teammate. Duanmu Bai coldly retorted that since the first round of the competition was over, they were no longer teammates, but rather "opponents." The results of the first round were announced, with four participants, including Qin Shangcheng, Rong, Duanmu Bai, and Chi Hong, qualifying for the second assessment.
This round, titled "Way to the Alliance Leader," was set in the mysterious and perilous Orchid Valley on Imperial Island. Participants would be dispersed across different areas of the valley, a place known for its toxic flora, venomous insects, and fierce exotic beasts. They had three days to safely navigate its dangers and reach the Imperial Palace to pass and advance to the final selection for the Alliance Leader.
Meanwhile, Duanmu Bai's master, observing the thawing relationship between Rong and Qin Shangcheng, decided that Rong was unlikely to secure the Rapier. He informed Duanmu Bai that he would personally intervene in the second round to confront Qin Shangcheng and reclaim the Rapier, hinting at setting up various "stratagems." He warned Duanmu Bai not to let "personal love" derail his important "business."
As Duanmu Bai navigated Orchid Valley, contemplating his master's traps, he unexpectedly came across Chi Hong, who was being attacked by wild beasts. Despite his earlier declaration that they were opponents, he saved her. When she questioned his actions, he feigned indifference, claiming he merely didn't want her to disturb the insect swarm and inadvertently affect him. Privately, Chi Hong decided to follow Duanmu Bai secretly, worried he might truly abandon their connection and awaiting Rong's eventual decision.
Using a special compass linked to Rong's boomerang, Qin Shangcheng located her just as she was being attacked by hostile creatures. He rescued her, and when she thanked him, he reminded her that as allies, they should "join hands together." Rong expressed her confusion, struggling to reconcile claims that she was Hua Rong with her lack of memory. Qin Shangcheng reassured her that he would "wait for" her memories to return.
As strange mist enveloped them, Qin Shangcheng used it to induce a hallucination in Rong. In this trance, she encountered an illusory Duanmu Bai, who declared her mission complete and implied her undeniable love for Qin Shangcheng, because she was, in fact, "Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng's wife." This revelation triggered a torrent of fragmented memories and Qin Shangcheng's past words. Waking abruptly from the hallucination, Rong cried out Qin Shangcheng's name, grappling with her identity. She realized, "Who am I?
I am Hua Rong. I am not Little White Dove. I am Hua Rong!" In a powerful moment of clarity, she relived a marriage ceremony with Qin Shangcheng, where she willingly signed a marriage certificate. Returning to reality, she embraced Qin Shangcheng. He comforted her, assuring her that the disturbing events were mere "illusions."
He then solemnly reiterated his unwavering love, promising, "no matter who you are, and how much you change, or even you forget me, I love you forever." Rong, now fully awakened to her true identity and their shared past, echoed his sentiments, "no matter who I am, and how much I change, or even I forget you, I love you forever," as they both pledged, "Never be apart in life and death, never give up."
After the intense events, Zhang Xian was seen attempting to write a letter to his wife, Hui. Qian Dayou offered to help. He critiqued Zhang Xian's poor calligraphy and the mundane content, noting omissions and misspellings like the word "alliance" and the dry details about plain food. Zhang Xian admitted he simply "missed her." Qian Dayou, in exchange for a "glaze cup" he had received from Qin Shangcheng, agreed to write the letter.
He dictated a heartfelt letter titled "To my beloved wife, Hui," expressing his deep love and gratitude for her unwavering devotion despite his humble origins. The letter pledged his lifelong commitment to her and their "unborn baby," wishing them health and happiness. Hui, upon receiving this eloquently written letter, was deeply moved, remarking it was the first letter in months she could truly understand.
Episode 17 Recap
Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng shared a quiet moment, enjoying roasted chicken, with Hua Rong remarking on Qin Shangcheng’s excellent cooking. Qin Shangcheng expressed his contentment, saying he would happily stay trapped there with her forever. However, Hua Rong reminded him of her promise to uncover his true identity and to discover the mysterious figure behind Duanmu Bai’s schemes.
Qin Shangcheng assured her that he harbored a deep grudge for past wrongs, including the assassination attempt at Mermaid Bay and her hypnotized attempt on his life, all of which pointed to their enemy’s ultimate goal: the Sacred Sword. Hua Rong puzzled over the Sacred Sword’s significance, especially its connection to rescuing Duanmu Qingcang and the hundreds of people from Prince Mu's Residence.
Qin Shangcheng surmised that Duanmu Bai's desire for the Sacred Sword to become the alliance leader indicated a strong link to the Imperial Alliance, and he was determined to foil Duanmu Bai's plans. Deciding not to delay, they resolved to find a way out of Orchid Valley and complete the second assessment. Meanwhile, Chi Hong deliberately followed Duanmu Bai. When he questioned her presence, she claimed it was merely a coincidence as there was only one path to Orchid Valley.
Duanmu Bai attempted to take an alternative route to avoid her, but Chi Hong, after a dramatic gesture, declared that Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng’s relationship had likely rekindled, freeing her from any pretense. She insisted on accompanying him, and Duanmu Bai eventually acquiesced. Later, while Chi Hong roasted sweet potatoes for him, Duanmu Bai suddenly noticed numerous poisonous insects infesting the trees. His immediate solution was to run.
During their escape, Chi Hong discovered a poisonous spider on her shoulder, which Duanmu Bai carefully removed. To his dismay, he then found a spider on his own shoulder and saw that the trees were swarming with them. They fled again, but Duanmu Bai was bitten, succumbing to the poison and collapsing unconscious. Chi Hong bravely sucked the poison from his wound and applied medicinal herbs. When Duanmu Bai awoke, he questioned what else she had done.
She playfully suggested he might have wished for something more. He thanked her for saving him but maintained his lack of interest in her. Chi Hong, however, pointed out that he still kept her butterfly hairpin, revealing his hidden feelings. She acknowledged his family mission and assured him she would wait for his answer after the Imperial Alliance Conference.
As Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng journeyed, they observed an increasing number of orchids leading to a bamboo forest, which Hua Rong speculated might be the core of Orchid Valley. Qin Shangcheng confirmed the valley’s perilous nature, emphasizing the need for vigilance, and discreetly marked their path. Despite their efforts, they found themselves lost, circling back to their starting point. Hua Rong wondered if they had entered a maze.
Qin Shangcheng recalled a similar formation called "Changlin Formation" from an ancient text, noting that it could only be broken by finding its "water-surrounded" center. Since they hadn't encountered any water, Qin Shangcheng suggested resting until morning. Hua Rong, however, had an immediate solution: using sharpened bamboo sticks to test the soil’s moisture, a method she had secretly learned from her father during his military campaigns. Together, they began their search.
Hua Rong’s method proved successful as the soil became increasingly damp, indicating a nearby water source. Qin Shangcheng praised her skill, confident that the formation's center was close. They soon discovered a unique flower beside a spring, which Qin Shangcheng identified as the key to breaking the formation. Upon removing the flower, water flowed freely, and the Changlin Formation was broken. Unbeknownst to them, Duanmu Bai’s master watched from afar, a sinister smile playing on his lips.
Hua Rong found the flower fragrant, but Qin Shangcheng, aware of the Orchid Valley’s many dangers, warned her about strange poisons and told her to discard it immediately, which she did. They later found a small wooden house. Qin Shangcheng mentioned he had left markers for Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian to meet them there before they all proceeded together. Inside, Hua Rong felt a sudden unease but dismissed it.
The house was filled with various medicinal herbs, indicating that its former occupant possessed profound knowledge of both medicine and poisons. Qin Shangcheng discovered a medical text describing a "Blood Exchange" technique, which involved using an orchid decoction and a giant silkworm to transfer blood from a healthy person to a poisoned one, thereby delaying the spread of toxins and buying time for an antidote to be developed. He noted the potential life-saving application of such a method.
He also found a name, Mu Qing, suggesting the house belonged to a distinguished figure within the Imperial Alliance, explaining the protective herbs guarding the house from insects. Suddenly, Hua Rong collapsed, her symptoms clearly indicating poisoning. Qin Shangcheng realized she had been poisoned by the strange flower she smelled earlier. To save her, Qin Shangcheng immediately performed the Blood Exchange technique on Hua Rong, effectively mixing his blood with hers and declaring that they would never be separated again.
Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian arrived, confirming the poison as "Love-breaking Hibiscus," a unique Imperial Alliance toxin. They explained that blood lines would appear from the back, converging into a hibiscus pattern on the palm, deepening in color as the poisoning worsened, leading to death within two days. The only way to entirely cure it was to "break emotional entanglements." Hua Rong overheard their conversation and confronted Qin Shangcheng, fearing he would abandon her after they left Orchid Valley.
Qin Shangcheng passionately denied it, vowing to win the Imperial Alliance Leader position to find the antidote, assuring her they would face all challenges together. Duanmu Bai and Chi Hong were the first to return to the Imperial Alliance. Chi Hong promptly withdrew from the competition, declaring her sole interest lay with Duanmu Bai. Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong arrived shortly after.
Qin Shangcheng sternly informed Kong Lin that while Hua Rong had overcome the traps, she had been poisoned and hypnotized, and he would hold someone accountable. Hearing this, Duanmu Bai confronted Kong Lin, his master, for poisoning Hua Rong, warning him against any further unauthorized actions. Kong Lin explained that his actions were for Duanmu Bai’s benefit, to secure the last emperor's testamentary edict from the secret chamber.
He revealed that Love-breaking Hibiscus was a unique Imperial Alliance poison, and its sole antidote was hidden within that very chamber. Duanmu Bai reasserted his authority, instructing Kong Lin to focus only on retrieving the edict. Qin Shangcheng, desperate to find an antidote for Hua Rong, was approached by Duanmu Bai.
Duanmu Bai explained that the antidote was in the secret chamber, which could only be opened with the Sacred Sword, and the Sacred Sword itself could only be drawn by the "Imperial Son’s blood," a title he claimed for himself, making him the only one who could save Hua Rong.
Trusting him for Hua Rong’s sake, Qin Shangcheng gave Duanmu Bai the Sacred Sword, declaring his indifference to the alliance leader position and warning Duanmu Bai of severe repercussions if he failed to save Hua Rong. During the altar ceremony, Duanmu Bai attempted to draw the Sacred Sword but failed. The assembled crowd began to question his claim as the Imperial Son, accusing him of being a fraud and demanding the chance to try themselves.
Enraged, Qin Shangcheng confronted Duanmu Bai for his deception. Chi Hong stepped forward to defend Duanmu Bai, warning everyone not to touch "her man." Hua Rong intervened to quell the escalating conflict, reiterating that the Sacred Sword required the blood of an Imperial Son. She rebuked the Imperial Alliance members for their selfish pursuit of power, which led to infighting and disregard for fellow disciples' lives.
She then asked Qin Shangcheng if she could destroy the Sacred Sword if it only brought bloodshed. Accidentally, she spilled some of her blood onto the Sacred Sword, which surprisingly activated a hidden mechanism. To everyone's astonishment, Hua Rong then pulled the Sacred Sword from its stand, thus becoming the new Imperial Alliance leader. Kong Lin, seemingly resigned, acknowledged her as the leader and offered to lead them to the antidote.
Kong Lin guided them, including Qin Shangcheng, Hua Rong, Duanmu Bai, Qian Dayou, and Zhang Xian, into the intricate secret chamber. He cautioned everyone not to touch any objects due to the numerous hidden mechanisms. He led them to the "Pharmacy," claiming that all Imperial Alliance antidotes were stored there. Once everyone had entered, Kong Lin sealed the door, trapping them inside. Qin Shangcheng and his companions frantically searched for the antidote but found nothing.
Realizing they were imprisoned, Qin Shangcheng angrily confronted Duanmu Bai, accusing him of conspiring with Kong Lin and demanding either the antidote or that he open the door. Duanmu Bai admitted Kong Lin was his master but insisted he genuinely did not know how to open the door and was equally baffled by Kong Lin's decision to trap him as well. As Qin Shangcheng, disbelieving, prepared to attack Duanmu Bai, Hua Rong discovered a hidden door.
Finally, Hua Rong told Qin Shangcheng that her "complete" self had returned, and she had kept her promise. Qin Shangcheng jokingly reminded her of a past incident where her mermaid form had stabbed him. She offered to compensate him, and he playfully suggested a kiss. After she kissed him once, he claimed it wasn't enough, prompting another kiss. Still not satisfied, he kept pushing, causing her to warn him not to take advantage.
He pretended to be shocked, asking if she was trying to murder her own husband. She apologized, explaining that she was still adjusting to being herself again, and her "professional habit" as a general had momentarily taken over. He accepted her explanation, saying they would get used to it, and they walked away together.
Episode 18 Recap
Upon entering the secret chamber, the group discovered the remains of the old alliance leader, who, according to Kong Lin's previous accounts, had succumbed to Qi deviation during his secluded cultivation. Qin Shangcheng confirmed the identity of the deceased by a waist token found on the ground. Chi Hong suggested he was Hua Rong's grandfather, and Hua Rong agreed, joining Qin Shangcheng in paying their respects.
A hidden mechanism then revealed a box containing an antidote for the Love-breaking Hibiscus poison and a book. Inside the book was a letter, identified as the old alliance leader's testament, which exposed Kong Lin’s insidious betrayal. Kong Lin, his most senior disciple, had poisoned him out of jealousy because the old leader had married his daughter, Mu Qing, to Duanmu Qingcang, the Prince of South Desolation. The testament further revealed that Mu Qing was, in fact, the Imperial Lady.
Kong Lin harbored ambitions to seize the former South Desolation Emperor's edict and unleash chaos upon the world. To thwart this, the old leader had commanded Imperial Eagle to take the Rapier, which was used to open the secret chamber, and entrust its safekeeping to his friend, Xuan Jizi. He also placed a trap within the edict box, instructing his descendants to eliminate the traitor Kong Lin and cleanse the Imperial Alliance once they retrieved the edict.
At this moment, Kong Lin was gleefully celebrating having found the treasure. The testament detailed that the secret drug, Love-breaking Hibiscus, was meant to be complemented by the Shengxin Incantation, which required the severing of emotions for its full mastery. Recognizing the inhumanity of this method, the old leader had spent years developing an antidote that could be used in conjunction with the incantation.
Qin Shangcheng, now in possession of this antidote, instructed Hua Rong to circulate the Shengxin Incantation to allow the antidote to spread through her body. He then escorted her to the alchemy house for detoxification, while others sought additional exits. Hua Rong began her healing process, noting that while the antidote was effective, complete recovery would still require time. Qin Shangcheng stayed by her side, assuring her safety.
Meanwhile, Kong Lin, celebrating having found the treasure, released a poisonous smoke into the chamber, which affected everyone except Qin Shangcheng. Duanmu Bai, weakened by the poison, questioned Kong Lin about the Imperial Lady's fate. Kong Lin, revealing his true villainous nature, confessed that Mu Qing's resistance to his advances had "hurt him first." He then declared Duanmu Bai was not Mu Qing's son, citing his inability to wield the Rapier.
Kong Lin further admitted that after Mu Qing’s suicide, he planned to kill her infant son, but Qin Yin, following Mu Qing’s prior instructions, had already swapped the child with his own newborn son and escaped. Kong Lin eventually caught Qin Yin, who, to save his life, abandoned his own child. Kong Lin expressed surprise that Mu Qing's true child turned out to be a daughter.
He then recounted how Duanmu Qingcang's forces arrived on Imperial Island, saving Qin Yin's son, Duanmu Bai. Kong Lin then fabricated a story for Duanmu Qingcang, claiming Mu Qing had died from dystocia due to grief over the old alliance leader's death, and entrusted Duanmu Bai to him for adoption. As Kong Lin prepared to strike, Qin Shangcheng, unaffected by the poison, explained that the poison was ineffective against the bloodline of the alliance leader.
Qian Dayou quickly realized that this meant Qin Shangcheng was the true Imperial Son, and that Hua Rong had been able to pull out the Rapier because of the blood exchange she had undergone with Qin Shangcheng. Qin Shangcheng fiercely declared he would protect his friends and brothers, engaging Kong Lin in battle.
Just as Qin Shangcheng was about to be injured, Hua Rong, having sufficiently recovered from her detoxification, joined the fight, stabbing Kong Lin, who dropped the treasure he had acquired and fled. Qin Shangcheng went to pursue him, instructing Hua Rong to rescue the others. Duanmu Bai then intercepted the pursuit, requesting a private conversation with Kong Lin and asserting that Kong Lin deserved to die.
During their secluded talk, Duanmu Bai pressed Kong Lin for full confirmation of his true parentage, which Kong Lin, in desperation, affirmed, admitting Duanmu Bai was Qin Yin's son. Kong Lin, pleading for his life, offered Duanmu Bai the Imperial Edict, appealing to their former master-disciple bond. Duanmu Bai accepted the edict but coldly stated he would neither kill nor save Kong Lin, leaving him to perish in the collapsing and burning secret chamber.
Emerging from the chamber, Duanmu Bai presented the Imperial Edict to Qin Shangcheng, urging him to use it to save Prince Mu's Residence. Qin Shangcheng, however, insisted that as Duanmu Bai bore the surname Duanmu, it was his duty as the true heir to Prince Mu's Residence, while Qin Shangcheng himself was the King Pirate.
He urged Duanmu Bai to take the edict and rescue his family, but only on the condition that he would exert all efforts to prevent Duanmu Qingcang from instigating another war, a sentiment Qin Shangcheng believed Duanmu Bai shared. Duanmu Bai agreed to make every effort. Later, it was confirmed that Kong Lin had perished.
Qian Dayou celebrated their "triple victory," noting the return of Hua Rong, her ascension as the Imperial Alliance leader, and Qin Shangcheng's discovery of his true identity. Qin Shangcheng then formally insisted that Hua Rong, having proven her valor and skill, was the most suitable leader for the Imperial Alliance, expressing his desire to be "the man behind the alliance leader" and witness her achievements, to which Hua Rong pledged her unwavering commitment.
After Duanmu Bai's departure, Chi Hong confronted him, heartbroken that he left without a word. She boldly declared her love, vowing to follow him anywhere. Duanmu Bai responded by reciting a poem: "Heaven is near, people are north and south; do not believe mandarin ducks, their heads do not turn white." Chi Hong initially misinterpreted this as a rejection, expressing her frustration with his obscure words.
However, Hua Rong intervened, clarifying that the poem actually conveyed that regardless of distance, true lovers whose hearts are connected would eventually reunite. Understanding this, Chi Hong earnestly implored Duanmu Bai to return safely, assuring him that she would wait. Qin Shangcheng later reflected on his relationship with Duanmu Bai, acknowledging that both of them needed time to process their complicated bond.
He then took Hua Rong to pay respects at his mother Mu Qing's resting place and that of the old alliance leader. Qin Shangcheng spoke of his mother's hardships during her pregnancy due to Duanmu Qingcang's constant warfare, and how he felt Duanmu Qingcang had failed as a husband and was unworthy of being his father. He then expressed his profound love for Hua Rong, praying for blessings for her health and their enduring union.
Qin Shangcheng, eager to have a child with Hua Rong, had earlier consulted Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian for advice. While Zhang Xian, having conceived "haphazardly," offered little, Qian Dayou, proclaiming himself a "master of love," advised selecting an auspicious day and a romantic, lucky location to "inspire Hua Rong's maternal instinct," ensuring success.
Meanwhile, Chi Hong hosted a celebratory meal for Hua Rong, marking the success of the Imperial Alliance's reforms, including the reorganization of its rules and the establishment of the "Women's Army Incubation Program," which integrated Imperial Disciples, Chi Hong's female pirates, and Hua Rong's own forces. During the meal, Hua Rong suddenly felt nauseous. A doctor, Hua Wuque, one of the four Protectors, was summoned and confirmed Hua Rong was over a month pregnant.
Overjoyed, Hua Rong immediately wanted to tell Qin Shangcheng. However, Chi Hong stopped her, citing a pirate tradition that revealing pregnancy before three months could lead to a miscarriage, and insisted Hua Rong keep it a secret. Hua Rong, trusting Chi Hong, agreed. Unaware of Hua Rong's pregnancy, Qin Shangcheng prepared a surprise for her at his birthplace, Mu Qing's former cottage, which he considered his "blessed land."
He presented her with carved wooden birds representing Daodao's family, including a "pregnant Dao's mother," and openly expressed his desire to have a child of their own there. As Hua Rong was about to reveal her pregnancy, Zhang Xian arrived with urgent news from General Hua: Duanmu Qingcang had ascended the throne in South Desolation. Qin Shangcheng acknowledged the predictable development and expressed hope that Duanmu Bai would be able to intervene.
Duanmu Qingcang, now emperor, faced initial resistance from his grandmother about moving to the imperial palace. Duanmu Bai resolved this by suggesting Prince Mu's Residence be designated as a temporary imperial residence for her long-term stay, thus not violating ancestral rules. Duanmu Qingcang then offered Duanmu Bai the title of "Prince Jing" and invited him to join the impending military expedition to expand South Desolation's territory.
Duanmu Bai desperately pleaded with his father to abandon the war, even offering his own life, and reminded him that Qin Shangcheng had willingly relinquished the Imperial Edict. Duanmu Qingcang, however, rejected his pleas, asserting that in a "weak eat strong" world, Tianchu would eventually attack them if South Desolation did not expand. He reaffirmed Duanmu Bai as his son but remained firm in his decision to wage war.
Soon, news arrived that Duanmu Qingcang was personally leading his troops to Tianlu City, confirming that Duanmu Bai had been unable to prevent the conflict, likely due to insurmountable pressures. Recognizing the inevitable confrontation, Qin Shangcheng decided they must immediately go to Tianlu City to support General Hua, Hua Rong's father. Hua Rong pledged to face the challenges alongside him.
Chi Hong, expressing concern, requested that they show leniency if they encountered Duanmu Bai on the battlefield, to which Qin Shangcheng reassured her. Hua Rong and Chi Hong reaffirmed their pact to keep the pregnancy a secret from Qin Shangcheng. Despite Duanmu Bai's warning that Qin Shangcheng would personally join the fight, Duanmu Qingcang remained undeterred, eager to test Qin Shangcheng's abilities and determine if he was "worthy of being my son."
Meanwhile, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian discussed Qin Shangcheng's lovesickness, lamenting Hua Rong's absence as she, with Chi Hong, was rigorously training the newly formed Women's Army as part of the new alliance reforms.
Episode 19 Recap
Upon arriving at Tianlu City, Qin Shangcheng and Rong'er found the Tianchu forces in dire straits, having suffered heavy casualties from a recent surprise attack by Southern Desolation. Lieutenant Yan, who led the advance troops, was wounded, and morale was dangerously low. General Hua, Rong'er's father, expressed his relief and gratitude for their arrival, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.
He explained that Duanmu Qingcang, the commander of Southern Desolation, had killed Tianchu's envoy, unequivocally rejecting any peace talks and launching continuous raids that severely weakened their forces. Qin Shangcheng, aware of his blood ties to Duanmu Qingcang, firmly declared that on the battlefield, there are no fathers or sons. He sought equal dialogue, but only after winning two decisive battles, especially since Tianchu was currently outnumbered.
He proposed a strategy to avoid direct confrontation, suspecting that the victorious Southern Desolation army would be building bridges to cross the river and pursue them. By reinforcing the riverbanks, they could delay the enemy's advance. Rong'er agreed with the defensive measure but emphasized it was merely a temporary solution. She observed that Southern Desolation's vast army, though formidable, was arrayed in a long, serpent-like formation, making it slow to maneuver and difficult to coordinate in a short time.
Therefore, she suggested launching multiple surprise attacks, using fewer troops to outwit and overwhelm the enemy. Rong'er's multi-point surprise attacks quickly proved effective, with Southern Desolation losing several generals in succession. Despite their success, Rong'er cautioned against overusing the tactic, as the enemy would surely fortify their passes. Qin Shangcheng, drawing on his identity as King Pirate, proposed a daring night raid.
He planned to swim across the narrowest section of the river to infiltrate and attack the enemy camp by surprise. This audacious plan succeeded, leading to further victories and forcing the Southern Desolation army to contract its formations and slow its frontal assault. Qin Shangcheng praised Rong'er, acknowledging that without her strategic command at the base camp, his efforts would be like a blade without an edge.
General Hua then received urgent intelligence from Night-Wolf, a mysterious informant known only for his valuable information. The intelligence revealed Duanmu Qingcang's plan to lead several hundred elite troops in a covert fire attack from Guan Mountain, behind Tianchu's main barracks, while the main Southern Desolation army simultaneously crossed the river for a pincer attack. Qin Shangcheng immediately recognized this as a prime opportunity.
He proposed that General Hua defend the front lines while he led a specialized force to ambush Duanmu Qingcang from the rear, aiming to capture him alive and secure victory. General Hua approved the plan. However, a scout, fatally wounded, managed to send a desperate message to Rong'er, reporting that thousands of Southern Desolation troops had secretly departed their main camp.
Rong'er instantly realized that Duanmu Qingcang's fire attack was merely a feint, and the real objective was a trap for Qin Shangcheng. She urgently requested to mobilize cavalry to rescue him, but General Hua intervened. He warned that Duanmu Qingcang was cunning and might have anticipated their reaction, intending to draw their main army out of the barracks. Such a move would leave their camp vulnerable.
General Hua, believing that Duanmu Qingcang would never harm his own biological son, urged Rong'er to stand down. Later, Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou returned alone, confirming Rong'er’s fears: they had indeed fallen into the trap. Qin Shangcheng, to protect his soldiers and brothers, surrendered and agreed to return with Duanmu Qingcang. Duanmu Qingcang, in a cruel display, stated that the battle was a test of Qin Shangcheng's worth as his son, concluding that he was "not qualified enough."
Qian Dayou, distraught, wanted to immediately gather troops to rescue Qin Shangcheng, but Rong'er stopped him, explaining it would be a suicidal mission and reiterating General Hua's belief that Qin Shangcheng would be safe. General Hua added that this confrontation between father and son was an unavoidable fate. Soon after, a letter from Duanmu Bai reached Rong'er, arranging a secret meeting.
Duanmu Bai informed her that Qin Shangcheng was being held under house arrest in the Tianchi Pavilion of Mu's Palace. He provided Rong'er with a letter detailing his and Qin Shangcheng's true identities, meant for the Empress Dowager, along with a special token granting her free access to the palace. He explained that the Empress Dowager was Qin Shangcheng's only hope. He also conveyed his apologies to Qin Shangcheng through Rong'er.
Rong'er, accompanied by Qian Dayou, presented the letter and token to the Empress Dowager. Qian Dayou initially expressed his frustration with Rong'er for not fully protecting Qin Shangcheng, but Rong'er insisted she had done her best. Rong'er revealed that Qin Shangcheng was the Empress Dowager's grandson and that she herself was pregnant with the Empress Dowager’s great-grandchild. A servant cautiously suggested that the Empress Dowager shouldn't trust Rong'er's words and should leave the matter to the Emperor.
However, Rong'er bravely declared that she and her unborn child’s lives were in the Empress Dowager's hands and invited her to verify Qin Shangcheng’s presence in Tianchi Pavilion. The Empress Dowager visited Qin Shangcheng and found him suffering from a severe rash. She immediately recognized it as an allergic reaction to white fernwort, a sensitivity common among the Duanmu family from their ancestors. Enraged, she demanded to know who dared to bring such a thing into Mu's Palace.
Duanmu Qingcang then appeared, admitting he arranged it. He explained that as an emperor, he couldn't simply accept a son based on one person's word; he had to verify Qin Shangcheng's bloodline. Having confirmed Qin Shangcheng was indeed a descendent of Duanmu, he then joyfully shared the news with his mother. Despite the happy reunion, Duanmu Qingcang explained that Qin Shangcheng must remain confined because he had fought against him, an act of "worst offense."
He insisted that Qin Shangcheng needed to understand his heritage and allegiance. The Empress Dowager, however, argued that Tianchu had raised Qin Shangcheng, and his temporary alignment was understandable. She also revealed Rong'er's pregnancy, which brought immense joy to Qin Shangcheng, who worried deeply about Rong'er and their child. The Empress Dowager promised to personally care for Rong'er during her pregnancy.
Rong'er then embarked on a series of subtle maneuvers to gain the Empress Dowager's sympathy and secure Qin Shangcheng's release. She first claimed her unborn baby craved Qin Shangcheng's homemade eel noodles. The Empress Dowager promptly arranged for a Tianchu chef but kept Qin Shangcheng confined. Next, Rong'er feigned nightmares about the baby's safety without Qin Shangcheng by her side. The Empress Dowager brought her an amulet and even offered to sleep with her, but still, Qin Shangcheng remained imprisoned.
Finally, Rong'er suggested that fathers should communicate with their babies during pregnancy to foster a bond and prevent future conflicts, hoping this would prompt Qin Shangcheng's release. Qin Shangcheng, though awkward, attempted to communicate with the baby, repeatedly murmuring, "Daodao, my baby, Daddy wants to be with you every day." This attempt also failed. Undeterred, Rong'er later stumbled upon the late Empress Mu Qing's untouched sleeping palace, which was meticulously cleaned by the Emperor on her birthday each year.
Despite the guards' warnings about not entering, Rong'er insisted, stating that as Mu Qing’s daughter-in-law, she was not an outsider. Inside, she discovered a pair of baby shoes inscribed "Wanjiang Fulong Shoe shop, Yi-Chou year." Rong'er realized this year coincided with Duanmu Qingcang’s northern expedition to Wanjiang and Qin Shangcheng’s birth. She understood that even amidst war, Duanmu Qingcang had cared for his pregnant wife and unborn child.
She then overheard Duanmu Qingcang confessing his regrets to Mu Qing's spirit, lamenting their separation and how it had affected his relationship with Qin Shangcheng. Confronting him, Rong'er eloquently appealed to his paternal love, asserting that Mu Qing would never wish to see father and son in conflict. She highlighted Qin Shangcheng's difficult, parentless upbringing and expressed her desire for their child not to repeat that cycle.
Moved by Rong'er's words, Duanmu Qingcang released Qin Shangcheng, and the family shared a meal with the Empress Dowager. During the meal, Duanmu Qingcang recounted a past war where kohlrabi and radish saved his family, reaffirming his ambition for a unified realm. Qin Shangcheng, however, expressed skepticism about this grand vision.
Duanmu Qingcang then proposed a wager: if Southern Desolation could conquer Tianlu City within half a month, Qin Shangcheng would forever remain in Mu's Palace; if not, Qin Shangcheng and Rong'er would be free to leave Southern Desolation. Both men agreed, while the Empress Dowager urged them to set aside their disputes and simply enjoy their meal. Later, Qin Shangcheng and Rong'er discussed their strategy to counter Duanmu Qingcang. Qian Dayou suggested that Night-Wolf, Tianchu's spy, would surely send intelligence.
Rong'er, however, reminded them that Night-Wolf was now extremely cautious after a previous false intelligence report had led to Qin Shangcheng's capture. They needed a new way to contact him. Qin Shangcheng recalled a past communication from a contact related to Tianchu's royal family, mentioning that a spy within Duanmu Qingcang's inner circle would leave grain route information at the corner of Huichuntang, marked by an abutilon pictum flower.
Meanwhile, Duanmu Qingcang and his Shadow Guard captain, Fuqin, plotted to use Qin Shangcheng as bait to expose Tianchu's hidden spies. Fuqin agreed, emphasizing the importance of securing Southern Desolation's secret cannon development. Duanmu Qingcang theorized that people, like fish, are cautious by day but bolder at night, thus he aimed to "embolden" the spy. Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian, acting on Qin Shangcheng's plan, planted a signal at the specified corner. Fuqin secretly observed.
Zou Yitian, revealed to be Night-Wolf, took the bait and left false intelligence at the location. Fuqin reported Zou Yitian's identity to Duanmu Qingcang. Duanmu Qingcang decided to continue using Zou Yitian to feed misleading information to Tianchu, planning to expose him directly to Qin Shangcheng later. Duanmu Qingcang openly gloated about successfully manipulating Qin Shangcheng to pass false information to Tianchu, anticipating a major defeat for Tianchu. He then prepared to execute Zou Yitian.
Qin Shangcheng attempted to intervene, enraging Duanmu Qingcang, who was about to strike him. At that critical moment, the Empress Dowager, who had secretly gone to Lingchan Temple, returned unexpectedly. She vehemently condemned Duanmu Qingcang for exploiting his own son and vowed to protect Qin Shangcheng and Rong'er, even if it cost her life. Just then, a messenger arrived with shocking news: Southern Desolation's armies, which were attacking Xunyang, Shaoguan, and Rongcheng, had been encircled by Tianchu forces.
Duanmu Qingcang was stunned. In a separate, lighter moment, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian were comically discussing the art of having a baby. Qian Dayou stressed the importance of a strong physique, praising Qin Shangcheng's vigor and suggesting his future child would be equally lively. Zhang Xian offered Qin Shangcheng a bottle of "rice flower liquor," but Qin Shangcheng firmly refused, citing the ill effects of alcohol on health and pregnancy.
Qian Dayou then tried to give Qin Shangcheng a nourishing soup, an ancestral recipe from Doctor Hua, filled with ingredients like shrimp, oysters, and various beans. He implied Qin Shangcheng needed it because Rong'er hadn't yet become pregnant, unlike Zhang Xian's wife, Hui, who conceived quickly. Qin Shangcheng, infuriated by the insinuation that he was "weak," confronted Qian Dayou, who quickly apologized for his blunder.
Episode 20 Recap
Upon learning that his front-line armies besieging Xunyang, Shaoguan, and Rongcheng were trapped by the Tianchu army, Duanmu Qingcang expressed disbelief. Qin Shangcheng, however, stated confidently that he had predicted this outcome, reminding Duanmu Qingcang that the war report had not yet arrived and nothing was truly decided, thus declaring Duanmu Qingcang's defeat.
When asked how he knew, Qin Shangcheng explained that the ease with which he was released and allowed to contact Night-Wolf for intelligence seemed too smooth for a suspicious and cautious person like Duanmu Qingcang. Rong then questioned the purpose of providing false intelligence. Together, they realized Duanmu Qingcang’s true intent: to deliberately use false intelligence to draw all of Tianchu’s forces to Tianlu City, leaving the three other cities vulnerable.
This would allow him to seize Xunyang, Shaoguan, and Rongcheng, turning them into South Desolation territory. Tianlu City, isolated and cut off from supplies, would then fall without Duanmu Qingcang having to expend a single soldier. Rong concluded that with such vast ambition, the possibility of peace talks was even smaller. Qin Shangcheng asserted that to compel Duanmu Qingcang to withdraw, they needed to control the overall situation. Duanmu Qingcang acknowledged Qin Shangcheng’s keen understanding, calling him his son.
Qin Shangcheng informed him that General Hua, Rong's father, had agreed not to harm any South Desolation soldiers, promising to send them home as a gesture of Tianchu's sincerity for peace. Rong presented Duanmu Qingcang with letters left by his late Empress Mu Qing, explaining that he would understand after reading them. She shared that she had read every word herself and, as a wife and soon-to-be mother, deeply empathized with Mu Qing's sentiments.
Rong then pleaded with Duanmu Qingcang to withdraw his troops, hoping that husbands in both South Desolation and Tianchu would no longer be separated from their wives, and mothers would no longer have to worry about their children. The letters detailed Mu Qing's painful wait for her husband during his campaigns while she was pregnant, her wish for peace, and her desire for her children to live carefree lives, away from imperial entanglements.
Deeply moved after reading the letters, Duanmu Qingcang finally ordered a retreat. Rong informed Qin Shangcheng that his birthday banquet, while outwardly arranged by the Empress Dowager, was actually orchestrated by Duanmu Qingcang. She worried it might be inappropriate if they didn't wear the clothes he provided. Qin Shangcheng acknowledged Duanmu Qingcang as his father but refused to accept the identity of a South Desolation Prince.
Rong noted that it was already a significant improvement that Duanmu Qingcang spared Lieutenant General Zou. Embracing Rong, Qin Shangcheng assured her that his only desire was to spend the rest of his life with her, undisturbed by any external matters, and that he had everything under control. At the banquet, Duanmu Qingcang inquired if the four-dragon robes he had sent did not fit Qin Shangcheng, who simply replied he was "not used to it."
The Empress Dowager quickly interjected, redirecting the conversation to family matters and away from state affairs, a suggestion Duanmu Qingcang readily accepted. Rong thanked Duanmu Qingcang for his understanding and his decision to retreat and engage in peace talks for the welfare of both nations' people, toasting him with tea. Duanmu Qingcang explained that he also agreed for the sake of his imperial grandson.
He added that to handle external threats, internal stability was paramount, and discussing grand plans after the court was settled was a prudent approach. Qin Shangcheng then provocatively asked if Duanmu Qingcang wished to gamble again, to which he agreed. The Empress Dowager remarked on Qin Shangcheng's unruly spirit, noting its resemblance to Duanmu Qingcang's own youthful debates with his father. Just then, Duanmu Bai returned.
Initially, Duanmu Qingcang reprimanded him for not tending to his returning army, but the Empress Dowager quickly intervened, insisting Duanmu Bai stay for his birthday longevity noodles. She proposed a competition to determine seniority between the two brothers, who shared a birthday, by seeing who could eat the most noodles, which both eagerly accepted. Later that evening, Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai shared drinks.
Rong had been whisked away by her grandmother for a long conversation, leaving Qin Shangcheng to observe that there would be many more such opportunities for them. Qin Shangcheng tried to broach the topic of their foster father, Qin Yin, but Duanmu Bai showed no interest.
Qin Shangcheng then revealed that Qin Yin used to visit South Desolation every year on their birthday, suggesting it was to see Duanmu Bai, but Duanmu Bai adamantly reiterated that he only recognized Duanmu Qingcang as his father. Duanmu Qingcang joined them, and Qin Shangcheng stated his intention to return to the island with Rong to live a life of peace and freedom after the peace talks.
Duanmu Qingcang accepted his decision, and Qin Shangcheng promised to bring his grandson back to visit him and the Empress Dowager. Duanmu Qingcang became emotional, telling Qin Shangcheng that South Desolation would always be his home, a sentiment Qin Shangcheng quietly acknowledged. Duanmu Qingcang then instructed Fuzhen to prepare the peace treaty documents and facilitate Qin Shangcheng’s return to Tianchu.
Reflecting on the situation, Duanmu Qingcang spoke to a memorial of late Empress Mu Qing, expressing that although Qin Shangcheng hadn't returned, he felt Qin Shangcheng now had a place for him in his heart, attributing this change to Mu Qing. He lamented that if he had abandoned his obsessions earlier, Mu Qing might still be alive. A report then arrived regarding Yi Feichi's escape attempt and recapture by shadow guards.
Duanmu Qingcang falsely assured Duanmu Bai that he would prevent Yi Feichi from continuing his work on the Shenwei Cannon, but emphasized that Yi Feichi must remain in South Desolation due to his vast knowledge. General Hua, Rong's father, excitedly prepared for the upcoming truce signing at Shili Slope in three days, looking forward to his retirement.
He crafted numerous wooden toys, including a wooden horse that Rong cherished as a child, anticipating the birth of his grandchild, whom Rong affectionately nicknamed "Daodao." Qin Shangcheng and Rong sent a homing pigeon to Rong's mother, discussing their future. Rong wondered if she was being too willful, being pregnant and still out releasing pigeons and stargazing with Qin Shangcheng. He lovingly understood she missed her mother.
They envisioned a future living on Huarong Island with their entire family, like the Big Dipper, always together. As the day of the truce approached, General Hua confidently boasted to his second-in-command, Zhang Xian, about his pivotal role as the King Pirate’s chief strategist. However, their preparations were abruptly halted by a "meeting gift" from the South Desolation Emperor: the severed head of Lieutenant General Zou.
Moments later, a messenger reported that Duanmu Qingcang had launched a surprise attack, and Xunyang, Shaoguan, and Rongcheng had all fallen. General Hua immediately prepared to depart for the front, but stopped Qin Shangcheng from joining him, fearing the soldiers' resentment given Qin Shangcheng's ties to Duanmu Qingcang. He instructed Qin Shangcheng to take Rong back to Tianlu City and await his news.
Two days passed at Tianlu City, where Qin Shangcheng and his companions learned that South Desolation had sealed off Tianlu City and its crucial routes to the capital. While General Hua had managed to secure one pass, his forces were dwindling, and reinforcements from the capital might not arrive in time. Qian Dayou voiced suspicions, suggesting that Duanmu Qingcang had feigned peace talks and exploited his father-son relationship with Qin Shangcheng, never abandoning his ambition to conquer Tianchu.
Qin Shangcheng, feeling responsible, declared he must provide Tianchu with an explanation. He resolved to confront Duanmu Qingcang personally, vowing no leniency if the accusations proved true. Just as he prepared to depart, Princess Chu Fengling arrived, urgently relaying that the Tianchu Emperor, enraged by the recent losses, had issued an imperial edict to execute Qin Shangcheng. She offered her token for his escape.
Qin Shangcheng, asserting his innocence, refused to flee, but decided to expedite his departure to confront Duanmu Qingcang. However, before they could leave, Lord Yu arrived with the imperial edict, condemning Qin Shangcheng as a traitor for concealing his identity as a South Desolation Prince, colluding with the enemy, and causing the loss of three cities. Rong attempted to destroy the edict, but General Hua unexpectedly returned and prevented her.
Despite publicly stating his family's loyalty and his inability to intervene given the "conclusive evidence," General Hua subtly signaled to Qin Shangcheng to comply. Understanding his father-in-law's hidden intentions, Qin Shangcheng assented, reassuring Rong that General Hua had a plan. Meanwhile, Duanmu Qingcang received news that General Hua's pass had fallen, and General Hua had retreated to Tianlu City. Duanmu Qingcang chose to besiege Tianlu City and wear down its defenders psychologically before launching a full assault.
Duanmu Bai confronted his father, questioning his betrayal of Qin Shangcheng and the public revelation of Qin Shangcheng's identity as a South Desolation Prince. Duanmu Qingcang admitted his actions were deliberate, aimed at pushing Qin Shangcheng to a point where he would return to his side. Duanmu Bai accused his father of valuing imperial ambition above all else, treating his sons as mere pawns.
Duanmu Qingcang retorted that Duanmu Bai's task was to rescue Qin Shangcheng, not to lecture him on governance. Duanmu Bai reaffirmed his loyalty to Qin Shangcheng as his brother. Duanmu Qingcang then brutally tortured Yi Feichi, demanding detailed schematics of the Shenwei Cannon within ten days, threatening dire consequences for non-compliance, a stark contradiction to his earlier promise to Duanmu Bai.
Back in Tianchu, Rong, Princess Chu Fengling, Zhang Xian, and Qian Dayou, resolute in their mission, planned a daring jailbreak to rescue Qin Shangcheng. Qian Dayou, though boastful, expressed a clear priority: saving Qin Shangcheng first before pursuing his affections for Princess Chu Fengling. Under the cloak of night, they infiltrated the prison, only to find Qin Shangcheng gone. Instead, they discovered General Hua gravely wounded, barely clinging to life. Rong was heartbroken, desperately trying to rouse her father.
Lieutenant General Yan then arrived, falsely claiming that Qin Shangcheng had murdered General Hua and escaped with Duanmu Bai. Disbelieving this accusation, Rong and her companions decided to pursue them to uncover the truth. Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai, having fled all night, believed they were beyond Tianchu's reach. Duanmu Bai pressed Qin Shangcheng for an explanation of the recent events, but before Qin Shangcheng could speak, they were ambushed by black-clad assassins.
During the fierce fight, Duanmu Bai urged Qin Shangcheng to escape and leave him behind. Qin Shangcheng vehemently refused, declaring he would never abandon his brother and had not yet had his fill of drinking with him. Both men fought valiantly but were eventually overwhelmed and collapsed, severely wounded. Fuzhen and her troops arrived, stating that someone had already gotten there first, then, specifically following Duanmu Qingcang's orders, took Qin Shangcheng away, leaving the unconscious Duanmu Bai behind.
Shortly after, one of General Hua's subordinates found the severely injured Duanmu Bai. Recognizing his noble status, the subordinate decided it was too risky to take him to Tianlu City and instead transported him to a more discreet camp, instructing others to report the situation to Crab. Upon learning of Qin Shangcheng's critical condition—multiple infected stab wounds and severe blood loss—and the doctor's inability to treat him, Duanmu Qingcang immediately executed the physician.
He then ordered Fuzhen to transport Qin Shangcheng to the capital for treatment, emphasizing that he must be saved. Subsequently, Duanmu Qingcang summoned his four lieutenants, commanding them to gather the army to besiege Tianlu City, cut off all communications with the Tianchu capital, and launch a full assault in seven days, allowing nothing to enter or exit the city.
Episode 21 Recap
Hua Rong grieved intensely for her deceased father, General Hua, kneeling in the mourning hall for three days and nights without food or water. Her companions, including Sixth Princess, Qian Dayou, and Zhang Xian, worried deeply about her health and Qin Shangcheng's unknown fate, speculating that he, like Duanmu Bai, must have suffered severe injuries.
Hua Rong, holding a letter from Yue Feng to her father that she found among his belongings, revealed that her father had anticipated the current crisis and orchestrated a strategy to defend Tianchu. Suddenly, Zhang Xian rushed in with alarming news: the South Desolation army was attacking Tianlu City. Sixth Princess chastised Qian Dayou for his pessimistic remarks.
Yan Chengshou approached Hua Rong, urging her to lead the disheartened soldiers, while some present officers accused Qin Shangcheng of General Hua's death, which Qian Dayou vehemently denied. Despite her companions' attempts to shield her, Hua Rong emerged, confidently announcing that the South Desolation army would soon retreat. She explained that her father had foreseen this situation, and the Emperor had adopted his "relieve the state of Zhao by besieging the state of Wei" strategy, referencing Yue Feng's latest reply.
Just as she finished speaking, a report confirmed the South Desolation army's unexpected retreat. In South Desolation, Duanmu Qingcang convened his advisors. With Wanjiang's army advancing on Luocheng, he was forced to acknowledge General Hua's strategic brilliance. His generals advised against prolonging the siege of Tianlu City, warning of being caught between two fronts. Consequently, Duanmu Qingcang reluctantly ordered his troops to retreat and pursue peace talks among the three nations, grudgingly praising General Hua's cunning.
Meanwhile, Chi Hong was diligently tending to Duanmu Bai, who was severely wounded. Her assistant Xiaomeng located Hua Sanlang, a renowned healer, in Hai City. Hua Sanlang stabilized Duanmu Bai's life but delivered grim news: an arrow had fractured his leg's Jing, a fundamental injury that might prevent him from ever walking again. However, Hua Sanlang suggested that ancient medical texts in the Saint Alliance's secret chamber might hold a cure, prompting Chi Hong to immediately initiate a search.
After half a month in a coma, Qin Shangcheng awoke in South Desolation. Fuqin, captain of the Shadow Guard, informed him she was acting under the Emperor's orders and that the black-clad attackers were working for Kong Lin, who seemed to still be alive. She also mentioned the upcoming secret peace talks in the capital and relayed Duanmu Qingcang's summons. Qin Shangcheng confronted Duanmu Qingcang, accusing him of breaking his word.
Duanmu Qingcang countered that he had spared Zou Yitian, but Zou Yitian then attempted to bring Yi Feichi, the world's foremost firearm designer and creator of the devastating Shenwei cannon, back to Tianchu. Fearing Tianchu would acquire this weapon, Duanmu Qingcang explained his renewed offensive. He demanded Qin Shangcheng's help in securing Yi Feichi and the cannon's plans, appealing to his familial ties and the welfare of South Desolation.
Qin Shangcheng, however, asserted his identity as a pirate, disavowed any interest in imperial ambitions, and declared his intention to leave the next day. Duanmu Qingcang then manipulated Qin Shangcheng by reminding him of his Duanmu bloodline and claiming that Tianchu would never accept him after the "murder" of General Hua, and that Hua Rong would despise him. He further used Hua Rong's imminent arrival in the capital for peace talks and the safety of their unborn child as leverage.
Under this immense pressure, Qin Shangcheng reluctantly agreed to retrieve the cannon plans before the peace talks. After Qin Shangcheng left, Duanmu Qingcang secretly instructed Fuqin to monitor him closely and seize the plans once they were obtained, wary of any deception. Qin Shangcheng, utilizing his keen deduction, then directed Fuqin to search a specific temple near a clinic, reasoning it would be a logical refuge for an injured and religious Yi Feichi.
Hua Rong, accompanied by Qian Dayou, Zhang Xian, and Sixth Princess, arrived at Liuyun Pavilion in South Desolation, noting its unchanged appearance since their last visit for royal intermarriage talks. Qian Dayou, captivated by Sixth Princess's improved demeanor towards him, attributed it to his recent toothache making him seem more "melancholy." He vowed to use his newfound "melancholy prince" persona to win her affection.
Before Hua Rong's departure for South Desolation, Chi Hong had rushed to her side, informing her of Duanmu Bai's severe injuries and offering her assistance if Hua Rong encountered any difficulties. Hua Rong reiterated her unwavering belief in Qin Shangcheng's innocence regarding her father's death. Zhang Xian soon informed the group that Duanmu Qingcang had officially named Qin Shangcheng as the Crown Prince of South Desolation.
While some worried about Qin Shangcheng's loyalty, Hua Rong remained calm, discerning that this was likely a strategic maneuver by Qin Shangcheng. She resolved to confront him to uncover the truth. Shortly after, an invitation from Wanjiang's Young General Jin Tong arrived, requesting a meeting at the "Children's Courtyard." At the courtyard, they found Jin Tong kindly caring for homeless children, which left a positive impression on Hua Rong.
Inside, Jin Tong revealed that Duanmu Qingcang's delay in peace talks was a ploy to gain time to find Yi Feichi and the Shenwei cannon plans. He proposed an alliance between Tianchu and Wanjiang to secure the plans, suggesting they split the drawings to create a balance of power and ensure lasting peace. Hua Rong, while appreciative, politely deferred her decision, stating she needed more time to consider.
Outside, she expressed caution, unwilling to entrust Tianchu's fate to someone she had just met, and confirmed her plan to meet Qin Shangcheng privately that night. Duanmu Bai, upon regaining consciousness, immediately sought Hua Rong. Despite his immobile leg, he struggled to get out of bed, much to Chi Hong's concern.
Learning that Hua Rong had already left, he recounted how he had witnessed General Hua committing suicide with the Eight Treasures Kirin Dagger in front of Qin Shangcheng in prison, after all the jailers had been drugged. He suspected this was a pre-arranged scheme between General Hua and Qin Shangcheng, urging Chi Hong not to prematurely reveal the truth, trusting Qin Shangcheng to manage the situation. Later, Hua Rong summoned Qin Shangcheng by ringing a bell.
She pressed him for the truth about her father's death. However, under Fuqin's watchful eye, Qin Shangcheng feigned guilt, claiming it was an accident—he was only trying to escape the prison break orchestrated by Duanmu Qingcang's men, and General Hua was fatally injured while attempting to intervene. Devastated, Hua Rong, though initially doubtful, was forced to accept his confession. She angrily declared their relationship over, returning his boomerang, stating their love was irrevocably broken.
Qin Shangcheng accepted her declaration, but as he left, he handed her a compass, pointedly emphasizing the need for her to take care of herself and their "belly." Back at her residence, Hua Rong opened the compass and discovered a letter from her father.
In it, General Hua explained his plan: aware of his impending death from a battle injury six months prior, he had staged his suicide in prison to make it appear as if Qin Shangcheng was the killer. This was to allow Qin Shangcheng to gain Duanmu Qingcang's trust and return to South Desolation to thwart Duanmu Qingcang's ambition to obtain the Shenwei cannon from Yi Feichi.
Her father stressed the critical importance of preventing the cannon plans from falling into Duanmu Qingcang's hands, which would otherwise lead to the conquest of Tianchu and the entire Central Plains. He entrusted Qin Shangcheng with her care and the timing of the letter's delivery.
Understanding the full weight of their shared mission, Hua Rong resolved to maintain the facade of enmity with Qin Shangcheng, ensuring his continued trust with Duanmu Qingcang, and vowed to prevent the cannon plans from reaching the wrong hands. Her companions pledged their unwavering support for her and Qin Shangcheng.
Episode 22 Recap
While drinking, Zhang Xian commented to Qian Dayou that Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong had finally resolved their issues, bringing peace of mind to everyone. Qian Dayou declared that Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong were an inseparable couple, bound by deep affection. Zhang Xian was surprised to see Qian Dayou return to his usual self, noting that Qian Dayou’s previous act was for the Sixth Princess.
He questioned whether the act had worked, pointing out that if the princess loved an artificial persona, it wouldn't be the real Qian Dayou she cherished. Qian Dayou, with a melancholic sigh, admitted he knew this. He admired the Sixth Princess for her kindness, charm, and sense of justice, finding her unlike any other princess. Despite his own excellence, he felt unworthy of her and wondered how he could change himself.
Zhang Xian reminded him of his promise to confess to her after Qin Shangcheng’s matters were settled and urged him to try. Qian Dayou confessed his fear, explaining that when he truly cared for someone, he became overly anxious about gains and losses, dreading a rejection that might even cost him his role as her "donkey." He then stated he didn't care about pretending to be reserved or cold, as long as it pleased the princess.
Just then, the Sixth Princess arrived, having overheard his confession. Qian Dayou, flustered, tried to dismiss his words as drunken nonsense, but the princess admonished him, saying a man must stand by his words. She then leaned in and kissed him, stunning both Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian.
The Sixth Princess declared her affection, explaining she loved him for protecting her in life-or-death situations, for being the Qian Dayou willing to sacrifice for her, and for his unwavering loyalty to his Lord. She then officially promoted him from her "little donkey" to her favorite "horse." Zhang Xian jokingly asked what kind of horse, and a delighted Qian Dayou, sweeping the princess into his arms, exclaimed, "A consort, of course!" Meanwhile, Qin Shangcheng prepared to pursue Yi Feichi.
His shadow guards had located bloody gauze and medicine residue in a ruined temple near Chunhui Hall, confirming Yi Feichi's presence there, though he was currently out buying medicine. The guards were already ambushed. Qin Shangcheng declared they would depart immediately. Hua Rong and Zhang Xian held back, realizing that Qin Shangcheng was being followed by Prince Mu's Residence's shadow guards, which could expose their true intentions.
Hua Rong reassured Zhang Xian that with their compass, they would find Yi Feichi without risking exposure. Jin Tong, the Young General and Wanjiang's peace talk representative, was informed that Hua Rong was following Qin Shangcheng south. Jin Tong, whose cousin Duanmu Qingcang praised Qin Shangcheng, acknowledged the South Desolation Prince’s efficiency. Qin Shangcheng soon caught up with Yi Feichi. Yi Feichi, recognizing Qin Shangcheng as the betrayer of Tianchu, defiantly claimed to have already destroyed the cannon drawing.
Qin Shangcheng calmly retorted that Yi Feichi himself was the living drawing and ordered him seized. Hua Rong then appeared, asserting that Yi Feichi, as a Tianchu citizen, belonged with her. Qin Shangcheng questioned how she found them. Qian Dayou explained they followed Qin Shangcheng, noting that despite their feigned discord, Hua Rong knew Qin Shangcheng well, and following him was the easiest way to find Yi Feichi. Fuqin intervened, chastising them for speaking disrespectfully of the Crown Prince.
Qin Shangcheng maintained that he had promised his father to bring Yi Feichi back, and would not yield on this matter, prompting Hua Rong to draw her sword. Just as a confrontation seemed imminent, Jin Tong arrived, stating that Little Rice Cake had seen Hua Rong heading there, and he came out of concern for her safety. Jin Tong proposed that since all three nations had captured Yi Feichi, they should jointly interrogate him in a neutral location.
Both Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong agreed, and they proceeded to Liuyun Pavilion. At Liuyun Pavilion, Yi Feichi complained that drawing the intricate cannon diagram required immense focus, and the presence of so many people made him too stressed to draw. Qin Shangcheng suggested that pressure could also be a motivator. Hua Rong then publicly challenged Qin Shangcheng, declaring that Yi Feichi was Tianchu's responsibility, not South Desolation's. Qin Shangcheng retorted, questioning her constant opposition.
Hua Rong asserted her role as Tianchu's peace talk representative, emphasizing their enemy status. Qian Dayou observed that their sharp words and clashing gazes were merely a facade for flirting, masterfully portraying a discordant couple. Sixth Princess, playing along, expressed pity for Hua Rong, whose love was supposedly misplaced on Qin Shangcheng, the man who had tragically killed her father. She painted Qin Shangcheng as a handsome but treacherous betrayer of his country, abandoning his wife and killing his father-in-law.
Fuqin interrupted, urging them to focus on making Yi Feichi cooperate. Hua Rong proposed a rotating, intensive interrogation. Jin Tong suggested he and Hua Rong form a team. However, Hua Rong insisted on inter-nation balance, pairing Qin Shangcheng with Jin Tong, and Fuqin with herself. She stated that whoever obtained the drawing first should inform everyone immediately. Fuqin agreed to the arrangement but doubted Yi Feichi would easily yield.
During the interrogation, Yi Feichi remained unyielding, asserting his scholarly integrity prevented him from betraying his country. He claimed to be hungry and rejected Hua Rong's metaphorical offer of "bear's heart and leopard's gall." He vowed to take the drawing to his grave rather than surrender it. Frustrated, Qian Dayou urged Qin Shangcheng to kill him, arguing it would still bring peace. Yi Feichi remained defiant, believing they wouldn't dare. Qin Shangcheng, however, ordered him killed.
Panicked, Yi Feichi immediately agreed to draw the cannon diagram. Qian Dayou secretly celebrated his "decisive strike" that forced Yi Feichi to cooperate without Jin Tong or Fuqin realizing Yi Feichi's true allegiance to Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong. Later, Qin Shangcheng sent a message to Hua Rong, informing her that Yi Feichi was almost finished with the drawing and that Fuqin planned to make her move that night. Hua Rong instructed everyone to follow their plan.
As planned, Yi Feichi incapacitated Fuqin. Meanwhile, Qian Dayou, Zhang Xian, and the Sixth Princess were supposedly monitoring Jin Tong, though Qian Dayou was distracted, leading to a comedic argument about keeping watch. Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong then met Yi Feichi near a dry well, which was a secret passage leading out of the city, where General Yan Qing would meet him. Yi Feichi commended their convincing act, admitting he was almost fooled.
He explained his caution, trusting Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong but not Yan Qing, whom he hadn't met. To protect himself, he entrusted half of the cannon drawing to Qin Shangcheng, telling him to give it to Yan Qing and inform him that Yi Feichi held the other half. This way, Yan Qing could report back, and Yi Feichi would have leverage. Qin Shangcheng agreed, and Yi Feichi, after five years away, expressed joy at finally going home.
Qin Shangcheng wished him a safe journey. After Yi Feichi's departure, Hua Rong asked Qin Shangcheng if their act should now conclude. Qin Shangcheng decided it was best for him to remain with Duanmu Qingcang until the trilateral peace talks agreement was signed, to better protect them all. Hua Rong worried about Duanmu Qingcang's potential wrath, but Qin Shangcheng was confident no evidence would link him. Hua Rong agreed to continue the charade.
Soon after, General Yan Qing sent word to Hua Rong that Yi Feichi had been killed at the tunnel exit, and the other half of the cannon drawing was missing. Hua Rong immediately confronted Qian Dayou, Zhang Xian, and the Sixth Princess, demanding to know what happened, suspecting Jin Tong. Qian Dayou insisted Jin Tong never left his room, appearing to read all night.
Zhang Xian quickly realized Jin Tong must have used a trick, as no one reads without moving or turning pages. Qian Dayou and the Sixth Princess admitted they were distracted, with Qian Dayou humorously claiming his shoulder was too comforting and the princess's sleeping posture too charming. Hua Rong, realizing Jin Tong's deception, decided to implement a new plan.
She instructed Qian Dayou to inform Qin Shangcheng to claim he killed Yi Feichi and obtained half of the cannon drawing, thereby earning Duanmu Qingcang’s trust. Hua Rong then directly confronted Jin Tong, accusing him of killing Yi Feichi. Qian Dayou and the Sixth Princess, covering for Jin Tong, swore he never left his room.
Hua Rong feigned belief and apologized to Jin Tong, but then cleverly shifted suspicion to Qin Shangcheng, expressing fierce anger and suggesting he was the murderer. Simultaneously, Qin Shangcheng presented the fake half-drawing to Duanmu Qingcang, claiming he killed Yi Feichi as he was about to destroy the diagram at the tunnel exit. Duanmu Qingcang questioned why only half a drawing was retrieved.
Qin Shangcheng explained Yi Feichi had only that half, with the other half undoubtedly in Hua Rong's possession since she rescued him. He then feigned anger, accusing Duanmu Qingcang of mistrust, and blaming Fuqin for interfering without permission, thereby ruining his original plan to retrieve the full drawing. Fuqin, playing her part, took responsibility and apologized, offering to accept punishment.
Duanmu Qingcang, valuing her usefulness, spared her life but ordered her to assist Qin Shangcheng and never act on her own initiative. Qin Shangcheng then made a request: after this matter, Duanmu Qingcang should no longer trouble Hua Rong, wishing for her and their child to live in peace. Duanmu Qingcang agreed, conditional on Qin Shangcheng securing the complete cannon drawing.
Jin Tong, informed of the latest developments, celebrated his success in obtaining half the drawing and shifting the blame to Qin Shangcheng. He anticipated watching Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong's conflict, intending to reap benefits. However, he remained wary, suspecting Hua Rong's sincerity. He ordered his subordinate, Wu Ren, to closely monitor Hua Rong, emphasizing his cautious nature in never underestimating an opponent.
Later, Hua Rong discussed the ongoing charade with the Sixth Princess, acknowledging Jin Tong's cunning nature and predicting he wouldn't be easily fooled. She explained that their play was only half complete, and Qin Shangcheng would have to perform his part to "reassert marital authority." Hua Rong revealed that the "marriage certificate" they would tear was a fake, bearing the handprints of Qian Dayou and the Sixth Princess, while her real one was safe.
Qin Shangcheng agreed to finish the act, assuring Hua Rong, who was pregnant, that he would handle the heavier aspects of their "fight." They then began a dramatic public quarrel in their chambers, shouting, smashing objects, and loudly declaring a divorce, culminating in the tearing of the fake marriage certificate. Afterwards, they exited the room, pointedly avoiding eye contact, convincing onlookers like Wu Ren and Fuqin that their marital rift was real.
Meanwhile, Duanmu Grandmother returned to the palace and was furious upon learning of Duanmu Bai's disappearance and Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong's marital issues, which Duanmu Qingcang had hidden from her. She chided him for his negligence and ordered Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong to present themselves before her immediately. In a separate development, Duanmu Bai, able to get out of bed, tried to leave with a crutch.
Chihong intervened, discarding his crutch and offering herself as his support, refusing to let him leave. She proceeded to treat his injured leg with acupuncture, a technique she had diligently learned from Hua Sanlang. Duanmu Bai, noticing her precise movements, soon realized the red marks on her arm were from practicing the needles on herself, countless times, demonstrating her profound dedication to his recovery. Chihong instructed him to undergo the silver needle acupuncture three times daily and promised to return at noon.
Episode 23 Recap
Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng intensified their staged quarrel to create a convincing rift between them, hoping to mislead Jin Tong. Qin Shangcheng even asked Hua Rong if she truly needed to be so drastic, to which she replied that against someone like Jin Tong, they had to demonstrate genuine conflict. Shortly after, a palace attendant reported that the Empress Dowager had suddenly fallen gravely ill and urgently summoned both Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong.
Qin Shangcheng wondered why his grandmother, who had just returned from praying at the temple, would suddenly be so ill. The attendant explained that the Empress Dowager, known for her robust health, had fallen ill from stress upon hearing about their planned divorce. The imperial physician diagnosed it as a "heart ailment" requiring "heart medicine." Understanding the Empress Dowager's intention, Qin Shangcheng urged her to stop pretending, while she playfully admitted that they were too clever to be fooled.
She placed an ancestral bracelet on Hua Rong's wrist, declaring that she recognized Hua Rong as her granddaughter-in-law and would not permit them to separate. Qin Shangcheng assured his grandmother that Hua Rong would cherish her gift this time. Hua Rong also promised that Duanmu Bai, who was saved and being treated by her sworn sister Chi Hong, would visit the Empress Dowager as soon as he recovered. The Empress Dowager, overjoyed, then remembered their divorce and questioned it.
Hua Rong explained it was a long story, but assured her that their actions were for the peace of the two countries and would never harm South Desolation. Qin Shangcheng then requested a side room to meet Hua Rong discreetly, avoiding surveillance under the guise of visiting his grandmother. However, the Empress Dowager insisted on arranging a couple's suite in Tianchi Pavilion for them.
Meanwhile, Jin Tong had received a report that Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng had formally divorced, witnessed by his subordinate seeing Hua Rong tearing up the marriage certificate, and that the Empress Dowager had fallen ill from grief. While Wu Ren found it strange that Qin Shangcheng hadn't confronted Jin Tong about Master Yi Fei Chi's death, Jin Tong deduced that Qin Shangcheng was playing a trick.
He believed Qin Shangcheng was pretending to possess half of the cannon drawing as leverage to entice Hua Rong to reveal her half, likely proposing an exchange. Jin Tong decided it was time to approach Hua Rong. Jin Tong met Hua Rong and tested her, asking if she was wavering due to the Empress Dowager’s illness. Hua Rong admitted feeling guilty about her grandmother but firmly stated that national interests outweighed everything, and her divorce from Qin Shangcheng was resolute.
She then brought up Qin Shangcheng’s offer to exchange and share their respective halves of the cannon drawing, questioning if it was a ploy. Jin Tong suggested accepting the exchange but giving Qin Shangcheng a subtly altered, fake drawing. He emphasized that such a slight alteration, "a miss as good as a mile," would render the drawing useless.
He proposed using his loyal lieutenant, Wu Ren, a former member of the firearms camp, for this task, as he was the most suitable person. Hua Rong feigned concern about using Jin Tong's man but he reassured her that since he didn't possess the drawing, seeing half of it would be of no use to him, and reiterated Wanjiang's willingness to share the drawing with Tianchu to collectively constrain South Desolation.
Hua Rong agreed to the plan, offering her drawing and Jin Tong providing Wu Ren, with the understanding that the complete drawing would be shared after the task. She insisted, however, that she would determine the time and place. Hua Rong and Jin Tong brought the drawing to a room where Wu Ren was to work. Wu Ren requested both of them to leave so he could concentrate fully. As they left, Hua Rong recalled Qin Shangcheng's plan.
He had anticipated Jin Tong’s cautious nature, knowing he would first combine both halves of the drawing for Wu Ren to verify before Wu Ren started copying. That moment, Qin Shangcheng had determined, would be the opportune time to obtain the complete drawing. Hua Rong mentioned she could memorize the entire drawing in a short time. However, Qin Shangcheng had already foreseen that Jin Tong, having learned of Hua Rong's photographic memory from Jin Yiwen, would be wary.
Therefore, Qin Shangcheng intended to handle the memorization himself, asserting that "memorizing drawings is a pirate's forte." Later, Qin Shangcheng, accompanied by Fuqin, burst into Wu Ren's room, snatched the combined cannon drawing, and dramatically burned it in front of everyone. Hua Rong acknowledged Qin Shangcheng’s direct and audacious method, remarking that she liked it.
Qin Shangcheng then clarified that their earlier feigned discord was a well-coordinated act, emphasizing that it was Hua Rong’s cooperation that made their plan run smoothly. Jin Tong, realizing he had been deceived by their staged marital strife, accused them of trying to make an enemy of Wanjiang and sabotaging peace talks. Qin Shangcheng retorted that their true intention was to achieve genuine peace.
He asserted that destroying the cannon drawing was the only way to create an opportunity for genuine trilateral peace talks and true peace. Hua Rong further informed Jin Tong that she had already written to Jin Yiwen, apprising him of the situation, implying that if Jin Tong continued his belligerent stance and obstructed the peace talks, he would become an "eternal sinner," unwelcome even in Wanjiang. Defeated, Jin Tong left with his men.
During a fishing outing, the Empress Dowager noticed Duanmu Qingcang’s unusual dislike for fish, a food he once loved. She offered him Roselle soup, a traditional remedy for calming nerves, but also a secret test for the Duanmu lineage; members of the family would develop a red neck upon drinking it. When Duanmu Qingcang showed no such reaction, she realized he was an imposter and called for guards.
The imposter calmly informed her that her guards were dead and pushed her into the water. In a secluded place, Kong Lin, wearing Duanmu Qingcang’s face, gloated over his victory to a spectral presence he called Mu Qing. He reminisced about his past attempts to seize the late emperor's testamentary edict at the Imperial Alliance.
He declared that it was too late for any resistance now, vowing to make Mu Qing witness South Desolation changing hands, Duanmu Qingcang’s son accepting him as father, and everything Duanmu Qingcang owned becoming his. He planned to soon send the real Duanmu Qingcang to Mu Qing, forcing him to recount how he was utterly defeated and how his son was manipulated. Meanwhile, Chi Hong was caring for Duanmu Bai, whose leg had still not recovered despite various treatments.
She expressed frustration and sought hope in a wishing bottle, her sole wish being for Duanmu Bai's swift recovery, even if it meant his departure. Duanmu Bai, who had been feigning a prolonged recovery, struggled dramatically to peel a grape, asking Chi Hong what he would do without her. He then asked if she would still care for him if his leg healed, to which she replied he wouldn't need her then.
A messenger, Crab, arrived with a letter for Hua Rong, informing them that the Empress Dowager had fallen into the water and was unconscious. Alarmed, Duanmu Bai instinctively stood up and hurried to respond, forgetting his act and revealing his fully healed leg to a surprised Chi Hong. She confronted him, asking why he lied.
He confessed his leg had recovered three days prior, prompting Chi Hong to tease him, assuming he feigned illness because he couldn't bear to leave her. He later gave her a "regenerating and beautifying ointment," claiming it was to avoid owing her. She playfully retorted that he owed her a lifetime. Qin Shangcheng confronted the fake Emperor Duanmu Qingcang, informing him that the cannon drawing was destroyed, and he now held the only copy in his memory.
He warned the imposter that if he desired the drawing, he must sign the three-country armistice agreement and ensure the safe return of Qin Shangcheng and the Tianchu mission. Qin Shangcheng then noticed a strange medicinal smell on the imposter. Investigating at the Spring-back Hall, he learned it was an ointment for burns and scalds, which was inconsistent with Duanmu Qingcang’s recent health, raising his suspicions. Concurrently, Hua Rong discovered a suicide note hidden inside a drum by Nanny Duan.
The note revealed that the Empress Dowager had long suspected Duanmu Qingcang's true identity, had arranged the fishing trip to test him with Roselle soup, and was subsequently murdered by the imposter, with all her attendants executed to cover it up. Combining their findings, Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong confirmed that Kong Lin, who was believed dead, had survived the fire, captured the real Duanmu Qingcang, and was now impersonating him.
Qin Shangcheng then spoke with Fuqin, subtly questioning her loyalty and background. Fuqin, a Wanjiang native whose parents were executed by treacherous Wanjiang officials, revealed she was saved and protected by Duanmu Qingcang, earning her unwavering loyalty to him and South Desolation. Qin Shangcheng then subtly probed about the Emperor's recent changes. Fuqin, initially defensive, stated that the Shadow Guards only responded to the Emperor's unique handprint, which had remained consistent, thus implying the current Emperor was genuine.
Qin Shangcheng thanked her, saying her words confirmed his father was still alive. After Duanmu Bai successfully stabilized the Empress Dowager's condition, he joined Qin Shangcheng for a drink. They discussed the Empress Dowager’s fall, and Qin Shangcheng revealed that the fake Emperor had pushed her, confirming Kong Lin's impersonation. He explained Kong Lin’s strategy to sow discord between the brothers, aiming to torment their father.
Duanmu Bai, leveraging his knowledge of Kong Lin, suggested two potential locations where their father might be held: the Secluded House, Kong Lin's former residence designed with impregnable traps, or the Imperial Palace, where dangerous criminals were kept, suggesting Kong Lin might choose the "most dangerous, therefore safest" spot. They decided to launch a rescue mission during the upcoming trilateral peace talks, when military forces would be concentrated at Prince Mu's Residence, leaving other locations less guarded.
Meanwhile, the fake Emperor (Kong Lin) secretly met with Wu Ren, attempting to bribe him with the prestigious position of Great General of South Desolation in exchange for assassinating someone during the peace talks. Later, Qin Shangcheng found Hua Rong worried about the uncertainties of their upcoming plan, feeling a new "obsession with gain and loss" as a mother.
Qin Shangcheng reassured her, reminding her of his promise that she could always be herself, the fearless "Swordswoman Huahua" who fought for justice. He affirmed that their child, Daodao, would not be a burden but their greatest motivation and spiritual support. Hua Rong agreed, acknowledging that as parents, they must overcome all challenges for their child and the world's people, aiming for ultimate victory.
In a lighter moment, as they prepared for another act of their fake divorce, Qin Shangcheng struggled to list Hua Rong's shortcomings, claiming she had none because she was "too beautiful" and captivated him completely. Hua Rong playfully challenged him, and he joked that his only shortcoming was being "short of you."
Episode 24 (Ending) Recap
Qin Shangcheng outlined the day's critical mission, dividing his team into two groups. Hua Rong, Chi Hong, Sixth Princess, Money Dayou, and Zhang Xian were assigned to act as Tianchu's peace talk delegation at Prince Mu's Residence. Their primary objective was to keep a close watch on Kong Lin until Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai successfully rescued the real Duanmu Qingcang, who would then take charge.
Should this primary plan fail, their backup strategy involved secretly adding Truth Incense to the diplomatic wine during the trilateral peace talks, forcing Kong Lin to expose himself. Before parting ways, Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong exchanged earnest words of caution, as did Chi Hong and Duanmu Bai, with Duanmu Bai suggesting they meet at a ruined temple south of the city if unforeseen circumstances arose.
Money Dayou and Sixth Princess shared a tender moment, reaffirming their commitment to each other. As they prepared to depart, Fuqin arrived, informing Qin Shangcheng that Duanmu Qingcang was being held at the Secluded House and offering to lead the rescue. After quick consideration, they decided to follow her. Upon reaching the Secluded House, they noted the unusual absence of guards. Fuqin explained that she had used the Emperor's token to clear the area. Inside, they found Duanmu Qingcang.
Qin Shangcheng forcefully entered his chamber, and Duanmu Bai quickly diagnosed him with a potent poison. Recognizing the urgency, they decided to extract Duanmu Qingcang first and address the antidote later. Meanwhile, Hua Rong's delegation encountered Jin Tong. He candidly admitted his past dictatorial actions were driven by a desire to secure Wanjiang's greatest interests. However, having been outmaneuvered and lost the cannon map, he now believed that signing the trilateral peace agreement was the most beneficial course for Wanjiang.
Hua Rong expressed that if Jin Tong truly held these sentiments and demonstrated them through action, she would gladly accept him as her younger brother. Jin Tong assured her she would witness his sincerity firsthand. Shortly after, Wu Ren approached Jin Tong, conveying an invitation from "Duanmu Qingcang" for a private meeting. The Sixth Princess questioned Hua Rong's trust in Jin Tong.
Chi Hong remarked that Jin Tong's actions would reveal his intelligence, asserting that no one could hope to win against Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong. Hua Rong, echoing this sentiment, decided to wait for news from Qin Shangcheng, convinced that Jin Tong would not cause trouble today. Jin Tong proceeded to meet with Kong Lin, who was impersonating Duanmu Qingcang.
In a shocking turn, Kong Lin revealed his true, murderous intent and Wu Ren's treachery before Wu Ren struck Jin Tong from behind, killing him. Back at the Prince Mu's Residence, Hua Rong's group grew anxious. Hua Rong received a letter, seemingly from Jin Tong, stating that the situation was critical, peace talks might be jeopardized, and urgently requesting her presence in the side hall.
Despite Chi Hong's suspicion of a trap, Hua Rong, recognizing the handwriting as Jin Tong’s, decided to go alone, instructing the others to wait. Simultaneously, Zhang Xian arrived to provide Duanmu Bai with his medical kit, guided by Hua Rong's foresight. Duanmu Bai informed Qin Shangcheng that Duanmu Qingcang's poison was peculiar and would require several days to identify, though he could attempt acupuncture to temporarily awaken him.
Qin Shangcheng urged him to expedite the process, leaving two men to assist Duanmu Bai while he went to monitor the situation. Hua Rong entered the side hall to find Jin Tong already dead. She immediately realized she had walked into a trap. Wu Ren appeared, swiftly accusing Hua Rong of Jin Tong's murder, fabricating an emotional plea for revenge. Hua Rong, however, quickly pieced together the truth.
She pointed out that Jin Tong had been fatally struck from behind, implying only someone he trusted deeply, like Wu Ren, could have caught him off guard. She also inferred that Wu Ren's known skill in forging cannon maps extended to handwriting, revealing the letter as a forgery. Just then, Kong Lin, still disguised as Duanmu Qingcang, entered with guards to apprehend Hua Rong. He threatened to harm Chi Hong and the Sixth Princess if Hua Rong resisted.
To protect her friends, Hua Rong agreed to be captured in exchange for their freedom. Upon learning of Hua Rong’s capture, Qin Shangcheng was furious and moved to rescue her instantly. However, Chi Hong and the others intercepted him, explaining that Hua Rong had deliberately sacrificed herself to avoid a direct confrontation, knowing Kong Lin would have laid a trap. They urged Qin Shangcheng to devise a foolproof strategy rather than walking into a snare.
Meanwhile, Kong Lin gloated to Hua Rong, revealing his master plan: he had administered "Dead Sleep," a unique poison only he could cure, to the real Duanmu Qingcang, rendering Qin Shangcheng's rescue futile. He openly declared his intention to execute Hua Rong publicly, creating a trap to lure Qin Shangcheng into surrendering the cannon map.
Elsewhere, Duanmu Bai discovered that Duanmu Qingcang's "Dead Sleep" poison would lead to permanent unconsciousness within a day without an antidote, which only Kong Lin possessed. Faced with this grim prognosis, Duanmu Bai resolved to use the "poison transfer method," a forbidden and extremely perilous technique with only a 30% chance of success, to draw the poison into his own body and decipher a cure before Hua Rong's execution.
Chi Hong vehemently tried to dissuade him, highlighting the method's far greater danger than even blood exchange, describing it as a "nine deaths, one life" gamble. However, Duanmu Bai remained steadfast, emphasizing his unbreakable loyalty to his adoptive father and the critical importance of his actions for the fate of the three nations. Seeing his unwavering determination, Chi Hong made him promise to survive, declaring she would not live without him.
Qin Shangcheng, reflecting on Hua Rong and their unborn child, held unwavering trust in her resolve. In her prison cell, Hua Rong likewise placed her complete faith in Qin Shangcheng's ability to protect her and their child at the impending execution. The next day, at Wuyang Gate, Kong Lin presided over Hua Rong's execution. Before delivering the final blow, he offered her a cup of poisoned wine, cruelly intending to abort her unborn child before her death.
Just as he forced the cup towards her lips, Qin Shangcheng dramatically intervened, stopping the execution. Kong Lin, surprised by his solo arrival, questioned Qin Shangcheng’s apparent recklessness. Qin Shangcheng defiantly declared his absolute commitment to saving his wife and child. Kong Lin then demanded the cannon map, presenting Qin Shangcheng with a choice: the map or the death of Hua Rong and her unborn child.
Qin Shangcheng offered a fake cannon map, using the exchange as an opportunity to close the distance and rescue Hua Rong. Kong Lin, quickly realizing the deception, furiously denounced him as an impostor and ordered his guards to attack. A fierce battle ensued. Despite being injured, Qin Shangcheng clung desperately to the execution rope, refusing to let any harm come to Hua Rong and their unborn child, even as Kong Lin relentlessly pressed his advantage.
Just as Qin Shangcheng seemed on the verge of being overwhelmed, Money Dayou and the rest of their forces arrived, turning the tide of the battle. Qin Shangcheng, now reinforced, successfully rescued Hua Rong, tore off Kong Lin’s mask to expose his true identity, and decisively struck him down, ending the conflict. Hua Rong then publicly revealed Kong Lin's elaborate impersonation and his plot to instigate war between the nations.
At that opportune moment, the real Duanmu Qingcang, having been successfully revived by Duanmu Bai, appeared, validating Hua Rong's claims and acknowledging the crucial role played by Qin Shangcheng, Duanmu Bai, and their allies in saving South Desolation. Later, the group visited the Queen Mother, who was recovering and would soon awaken, thanks to Duanmu Bai’s medical expertise. Duanmu Qingcang expressed immense gratitude for their collective efforts in saving the nation, particularly crediting his two sons.
The Queen Mother, for her part, acknowledged her own discernment in seeing through Kong Lin's deception, despite his meticulous impersonation. Hua Rong playfully reminded Duanmu Qingcang not to overlook the contributions of herself and Chi Hong, to which he jovially promised to repay Tianchu generously. He then urged Duanmu Bai to formalize his relationship with Chi Hong, who confirmed that Duanmu Bai had already pledged to be both a minister in the Holy Alliance and her husband.
Duanmu Bai also reassured everyone that the Queen Mother would soon awaken. Duanmu Qingcang then stated his intention to personally oversee his mother's recovery, allowing the others to depart. As their time in South Desolation drew to a close, Qin Shangcheng and Duanmu Bai announced their departure. Duanmu Qingcang met with them to discuss state affairs, reflecting on sending Wu Ren back to Wanjiang for justice and arranging for Jin Tong’s orphans to receive an education.
He also confirmed that new peace talks would resume in Tianchu, fulfilling the wishes of the people. While saddened by his sons leaving, he jokingly threatened to issue warrants if they didn't visit. The Queen Mother, expressing her regret at not having spent more time with her granddaughters-in-law, had a private farewell with Hua Rong and Chi Hong.
She declared her authority in the Duanmu family and, upon Chi Hong's agreement, welcomed her as a granddaughter-in-law, presenting her with a beautiful jade bracelet. During a final celebratory meal, the friends reminisced about their adventurous journey together, including Hua Rong and Duanmu Bai's initial pretense of marriage, Chi Hong's past admiration for Qin Shangcheng, and the Sixth Princess's former crush on him.
Money Dayou passionately declared his ambition to study for the Imperial Examination, a condition set by the Emperor for him to marry the Sixth Princess, vowing not to give up until he succeeded. Duanmu Bai reaffirmed his promise to Chi Hong to explore the world with her, but would first visit his adoptive father's tomb. Zhang Xian expressed his eagerness to return to the island to be a father to his expectant partner, Hui's baby.
Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong expressed their desire for a peaceful life, raising their child, Daodao, on Hua Rong Island. Hua Rong envisioned their family as "Swordsman Yunhe, Swordswoman Huahua, and Little Swordsman Daodao," a family of three heroes, ready to fight for justice. Some time later, Chi Hong visited Qin Shangcheng and Hua Rong on their island, where she was introduced to their grown-up son, Daodao.
She happily shared that Duanmu Bai had proposed to her during the lively Torch Festival in Nanyang and presented Hua Rong with a beautiful "mother-daughter concentric bracelet" she had personally designed for Hua Rong and her future daughter. Money Dayou, now an Imperial Examination champion, also arrived, having fulfilled the Emperor's condition to marry the Sixth Princess.
Money Dayou then joyfully revealed that Hua Rong was expecting twins, playfully calling them "dragon-phoenix twins," who would join their older brother Daodao in fighting for justice. The friends playfully celebrated their respective happy endings and future plans, joking about starting families and life as parents.
