The Romance of Hua Rong Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

The Romance of Hua Rong Synopsis

A young girl, Hua Rong, left home because she had a dream of being a swordsman, but she was nearly forced to be ” the wife of the island leader ” by mistake. After some difficulties, Hua Rong finally escaped from the island, but Qin Shangcheng, who had long been in love with her, was unwilling to give up easily and embarked on a long road to chase his wife…

The Romance of Hua Rong Recap

Episode 1 Recap

Hua Rong, a mischievous and free-spirited young woman aspiring to be a chivalrous heroine, arrived in Yin Cheng. Disguised as a man, she climbed to the window of Lady Xiao Hui at Tian Xian Lou and entered the room. Hua Rong informed Xiao Hui that she had been entrusted by Xiao Hui’s mother to rescue her. Xiao Hui gratefully accepted the help, expressing her mother’s widespread efforts to save her.

She then revealed the primary obstacle: her Body Selling Contract was still with the procuress, who kept the key to its location on her person at all times. Noting Xiao Hui’s performance attire, Hua Rong quickly devised a plan. She declared herself "warrior Hua Hua" and promised to save Xiao Hui from her misery, emphasizing her dedication to chivalry. Donning a white dance costume and a veil, Hua Rong blended among the performers in the main hall.

Meanwhile, the pirate Qin Shang Cheng and his two subordinates entered, taking seats. His subordinate informed him that their target, Pei Yong, was somewhere upstairs, but his exact room was unknown. Qin Shang Cheng, seeking to draw Pei Yong out, instructed his men to create a disturbance. As the procuress busily entertained guests in the bustling hall, Hua Rong seized the opportunity, dancing near her and deftly snatching the key from her waist.

This action did not go unnoticed by Qin Shang Cheng. As Hua Rong tried to escape, Qin Shang Cheng called over the procuress and revealed Hua Rong’s theft. The procuress ordered her men to apprehend Hua Rong, plunging the hall into chaos. Amidst the pandemonium, Qin Shang Cheng spotted Pei Yong emerging from the second floor and immediately went in pursuit with his men. Hua Rong, having evaded capture, rushed to the procuress's room.

Using the stolen key, she unlocked a chest filled with jewels but found no trace of the selling contract. Deciding to take the jewels to help the poor, she began to pack them when Pei Yong burst into the room, holding her at knifepoint. Moments later, Qin Shang Cheng and the procuress arrived. Thinking quickly, Hua Rong falsely claimed Qin Shang Cheng was her accomplice, throwing a pearl she pretended was the key toward him.

The procuress, fooled by the ruse, ordered her men to seize Qin Shang Cheng, allowing Hua Rong and Pei Yong to escape by leaping out of the window. Out on the streets of Yin Cheng, Jin Yiwen, the free-spirited Fourth Prince of Wanjiang Kingdom, was traveling incognito with his attendant, Lai Sheng.

Lai Sheng voiced concerns about the rampant pirates in Yin Cheng, particularly in Tian Chu territory, urging Jin Yiwen to leave quickly and be less conspicuous, referencing a past incident where Jin Yiwen's meddling led to him being chased by a snake. Jin Yiwen dismissed his warnings, stating he wouldn't leave until he found the Longevity Pill, even musing about meeting some pirates. Suddenly, the fleeing Hua Rong collided with them, scattering her bundle.

Pei Yong swiftly boarded an official ship to escape, and Hua Rong, desperate to flee her pursuers, followed suit. Below deck, in the ship's cargo hold, Hua Rong discovered her bundle had been swapped during the chaotic escape, and her jewels were replaced by a precious manuscript.

Simultaneously, Jin Yiwen, now aboard his own ship, was scolding Lai Sheng for losing his most treasured manuscript, declaring he wouldn’t go anywhere until it was found, prompting Lai Sheng to suspect his young master was intentionally prolonging their stay. Later, in the ship's bottom, Hua Rong used the manuscript to start a fire for warmth, lamenting her current predicament and contrasting it with her heroic aspirations to become like "warrior He Yun."

After a day without food, her hunger drove her to search for sustenance on deck. There, she encountered panicked government soldiers shouting about approaching pirates. To her astonishment, the soldiers quickly surrendered and scattered without resistance. Puzzled, Hua Rong grabbed one, who fearfully explained that Qin Shang Cheng, the Pirate King whom even the government couldn't touch, had arrived. Hua Rong was dismayed to realize it was the same man she had outwitted earlier that day.

Her first instinct was to escape, but her chivalrous spirit compelled her to face the pirates to protect the royal funds she spotted on board. As Qin Shang Cheng's pirates boarded, his second-in-command, Chen Biao, moved to execute the surrendering soldiers, arguing that pirates never spare witnesses. Qin Shang Cheng intervened, reiterating his rule against harming those who surrender and rebuking Chen Biao for his disregard. He then ordered Chen Biao to leave.

While Qin Shang Cheng's men began plundering the ship, Hua Rong boldly stepped forward to confront him. She gathered all the wine jars on deck and threatened to ignite the ship if Qin Shang Cheng and his men didn't leave without taking anything. Unfazed, Qin Shang Cheng declared his right to take whatever he desired. True to her word, Hua Rong hurled the torch down. Qin Shang Cheng swiftly caught her in mid-air, demanding to know Pei Yong's whereabouts.

Hua Rong staunchly denied knowing Pei Yong, arguing that if she were truly his accomplice, she would have escaped earlier rather than getting caught. Qin Shang Cheng still looked at her with suspicion. Qin Shang Cheng brought Hua Rong back to his island stronghold. Later, while he was changing, the pearl Hua Rong had given him during their escape fell from his grasp, and a faint smile touched his lips as he reflected on her cunning actions.

The next day, a subordinate assigned Hua Rong to arduous labor at the quarry. Qian Dayou, tasked with overseeing the workers, approached Hua Rong intending to make things difficult for her. However, Hua Rong cleverly diverted him by identifying a piece of jade he cherished as a fake and eloquently explaining its flaws, demonstrating her extensive knowledge of calligraphy, porcelain, lacquerware, enamel, and painting.

Impressed by her insights, Qian Dayou invited her to examine his other treasures, which Hua Rong politely declined, citing her overwhelming workload. Later, Qin Shang Cheng inquired about Hua Rong's progress, and Qian Dayou, subtly shielding her, reported that she was "suffering and became good." Qin Shang Cheng decided to reassign her, and Qian Dayou suggested the kitchen, noting the steward's notorious strictness and tendency to beat new recruits, framing it as another tough test.

In the kitchen, the steward was berating a cook for failing to prepare a new dish for Qin Shang Cheng. Hua Rong intervened, stopping the steward from hitting the cook. She confidently announced her knowledge of royal recipes, claiming she had memorized them and could create a dish that would bring pride to the steward. Eager for recognition, the steward readily handed the task to Hua Rong.

The dish she prepared, though small, was deemed "not bad" by Qin Shang Cheng. Qian Dayou, still trying to ascertain Qin Shang Cheng's intentions, pressed if he wanted to continue "troubling" Hua Rong. Qin Shang Cheng affirmed his desire to further test her. Witnessing the steward's continued oppression of the cooks, Hua Rong plotted her revenge. During the bustling lunch rush, she deliberately caused an explosion in the kitchen using flour, as a lesson to the tyrannical steward.

Qin Shang Cheng, immediately suspecting Hua Rong, gathered everyone who worked in the kitchen. Feigning ignorance of the culprit, he declared that if no one confessed, everyone would receive twenty cane strokes, a severe punishment. As the cooks pleaded for mercy, Hua Rong challenged Qin Shang Cheng's arbitrary rule, demanding proof before punishment. When he pressed her to reveal the perpetrator, Hua Rong stepped forward and admitted to causing the explosion.

Qin Shang Cheng, now openly enraged, demanded her reasoning for daring to "use" him in her scheme. Hua Rong defiantly stated her confidence that he would not dare to harm her.

Episode 2 Recap

Having been brought back to the island, Hua Rong, still dressed as a man, defiantly told Qin Shang Cheng that her father was Hua Man Tian, a respected royal official famed for his martial arts and generosity, and that he would surely be searching for her. Qin Shang Cheng was skeptical, finding it hard to believe such a renowned martial artist would have such a "wimpy" son.

Hua Rong attempted to bluff, claiming to have inherited the Hua family's unique skill, Yi Yang Zhi, capable of incapacitating men with a single touch. She challenged him to a competition, stipulating that if she won, she must be allowed to live. Qin Shang Cheng agreed, but after her "Yi Yang Zhi" proved ineffective, he clarified that while he promised to spare her life, he had not agreed to release her.

He then punished her with twenty lashes for the earlier kitchen explosion. Enduring the whipping, Hua Rong hurled insults at Qin Shang Cheng, calling him a shameless bastard, and dismissed Qian Dayou’s attempts to make her be grateful for Qin Shang Cheng's personal punishment. Later, while still reeling from the lashing, Hua Rong witnessed a young boy, Yue Feng, being bullied by two men by the river.

She immediately intervened, chastising the bullies, even as Yue Feng pleaded with her not to get involved. Qin Shang Cheng arrived, and Hua Rong challenged his authority, asking if he would protect his subordinates. Unexpectedly, Qin Shang Cheng, upholding his own principles, ordered the bullies to receive ten lashes each for their troublemaking. He then departed. Yue Feng thanked Hua Rong for her help, and observing her drawing water, warned her about the algae in the river causing rashes.

Hua Rong shared that he was the first on the island to protect her, and she, in turn, encouraged Yue Feng to find inner strength to avoid being bullied and not to underestimate himself. Soon after, Qian Dayou brought baskets of Qin Shang Cheng's clothes for Hua Rong to wash. Observing islanders preparing to depart with Qin Shang Cheng the next day, Hua Rong devised a new escape plan.

Recalling Yue Feng's warning about the algae in the river causing rashes, she deliberately used that water to wash Qin Shang Cheng's clothes. The following morning, as Qin Shang Cheng prepared for departure, he began to itch uncontrollably. Qian Dayou confirmed Hua Rong had washed his clothes, leading Qin Shang Cheng to immediately deduce her trick. He knew she would attempt to escape.

Indeed, Hua Rong, disguised, had blended into the departing crowd and was about to board a ship when Qin Shang Cheng intercepted her. Back in the main hall, Hua Rong vehemently denied poisoning him or attempting to escape, claiming she was merely curious. Qin Shang Cheng asserted that his word was evidence on the island and, as punishment, declared he would have her arms and legs cut off.

Hua Rong desperately clung to his leg, praising him, then reminded him of her powerful father, Hua Man Tian, threatening that he would lead troops to destroy the island. Unmoved, Qin Shang Cheng stated he was least afraid of threats. He ordered her dragged away, to which Hua Rong responded with furious insults, labeling him a "stupid shameless bastard" and a "stinking pirate."

Qin Shang Cheng later revealed to his subordinate that this was merely a tactic to break her spirit, comparing it to "hawk training"; he ordered her tied to a discipline stake for three days of sun exposure to weaken her will. That night, Qin Shang Cheng ordered the guards to leave Hua Rong. Yue Feng secretly approached her with water and food.

Hua Rong told him that tears were no solution and that true strength came from within, encouraging him not to underestimate himself. Yue Feng was deeply moved, as no one had ever spoken to him that way before. The next morning, Qian Dayou frantically reported Hua Rong had fainted due to whip injuries and sun exposure. A doctor, summoned to examine her, revealed Hua Rong was, in fact, a girl.

This stunned everyone except Qin Shang Cheng, who had clearly known all along. Qin Shang Cheng promptly ordered a precious golden remedy applied to her. When Hua Rong awoke, dressed in female attire, she saw Qin Shang Cheng and angrily called him a "dirty bastard" for changing her clothes, realizing he had always known her true gender. Qin Shang Cheng retorted by questioning why a "normal girl" would have run to Yue Fang (a brothel) to dance.

Hua Rong declared herself a chivalrous person, quoting Mr. Yun He's teachings about a warrior's heart, and sharply contrasted his noble character with Qin Shang Cheng's brutal nature. Later, Qian Dayou delivered a message to Qin Shang Cheng, confirming that Hua Man Tian indeed had a beloved daughter of similar age to Hua Rong who had run away and was being sought. Qin Shang Cheng found this information "interesting."

Meanwhile, Yue Feng visited Hua Rong, who now revealed her female identity and invited him to call her "sister." Yue Feng shared that his parents were slaves who died after his birth, leaving him with only his surname, Yue, and no given name. Hua Rong, an only child, named him "Yue Feng" (Wind) to symbolize freedom and radiance, and they vowed to be sworn siblings. Yue Feng was overjoyed to finally have a family.

Hua Rong then determined that their most urgent task was to escape the island. Yue Feng revealed that a complete map of the island, including ship routes and reefs, was kept in Qin Shang Cheng's room. Hua Rong was excited, seeing it as their key to escape, and despite Yue Feng's caution against impulsiveness, she expressed confidence in her own intelligence and courage, inspired by Mr. Yun He. As Hua Rong recovered, she grew restless to find the map.

While she pondered how to get into Qin Shang Cheng's room, Chen Biao, the second boss, entered her room, intending to molest her. He tried to persuade her to abandon Qin Shang Cheng, claiming the island master was rough and not gentle with girls. Hua Rong resisted fiercely, warning him that she belonged to Qin Shang Cheng and he would not forgive Chen Biao.

As he physically overpowered her, Hua Rong screamed for Qin Shang Cheng, who arrived just in time. Chen Biao attempted to claim it was a misunderstanding, but Hua Rong quickly exposed his true intentions and even fabricated a story about him plotting to overthrow Qin Shang Cheng. Qin Shang Cheng ordered Chen Biao to receive fifty lashes. He then carried Hua Rong to his own room.

Hua Rong, while feigning indignation, subtly looked for the map, even offering to clean his meticulously kept room as a pretense to search. Qin Shang Cheng, aware of her motives, simply asked how she truly intended to repay him, leaving her speechless.

Episode 3 Recap

Hua Rong, still on the island, devised a plan to stay near Qin Shang Cheng. She intended to repay him for saving her life and declared herself his personal maid, hoping this would grant her access to his room. Upon discovering Qin Shang Cheng's illiteracy and his "worm-like handwriting," she saw an opportunity. She offered to teach him, suggesting that a heroic figure like him should not be illiterate.

Qin Shang Cheng initially hesitated to accept a woman as his teacher. Hua Rong confidently boasted about her extensive knowledge and photographic memory, claiming she could easily be a Number One Scholar if she were a man. To prove her abilities, she challenged him to pick any book from behind him, stating she had memorized them at age 10.

Qin Shang Cheng chose "The Art of War by Mr. Zhu Ge," and Hua Rong accurately recited a section about "The merit and demerit art." Impressed, Qin Shang Cheng agreed to her teaching him starting the next day. Hua Rong left his room, thrilled her plan was working. Later, Qin Shang Cheng struggled with his writing practice. Qian Dayou, his subordinate, commiserated, saying holding a pen was harder than a sword.

Qin Shang Cheng wondered how long he'd have to practice, to which Qian Dayou joked it would be until his writing was no longer "like worms." Qin Shang Cheng warned Qian Dayou that if his writing didn't improve, he would seize one of Qian Dayou's treasures, prompting Qian Dayou to promise to try harder. Meanwhile, Qin Shang Cheng secretly instructed his men to closely monitor Chen Biao's activities.

Having been recently punished, Chen Biao was incited by Hu Er, who reminded him of how Qin Shang Cheng had humiliated him over a woman, despite Chen Biao once saving Qin Shang Cheng's life. Hu Er stirred Chen Biao's resentment by criticizing Qin Shang Cheng's strict rules, like forbidding killing and stealing, which left the pirates feeling stifled. Hu Er claimed everyone wished Chen Biao would replace Qin Shang Cheng and restore their glorious days, pledging his loyalty.

Chen Biao pondered the suggestion. The next day, Hua Rong arrived at Qin Shang Cheng's room for their lesson. She noticed Qian Dayou discussing an important nautical chart with Qin Shang Cheng, who quickly concealed it upon her entry. Hua Rong began her lesson, instructing Qin Shang Cheng on proper penmanship. She taught him the characters for "Zhi, yong, shuang, quan" (Wisdom pairs with brave).

When Qin Shang Cheng asked her to write her name, Hua Rong cleverly wrote homonyms instead, explaining the characters' meanings in terms of "flowers and trees" and "sharing honor and disgrace," as her father taught her. She then "accidentally" spilled tea on Qin Shang Cheng's clothes, hoping he would change and she could search for the map, but he remained unfazed, simply stating the clothes would dry quickly.

That evening, Hua Rong disguised herself as a subordinate and entered Qin Shang Cheng's bathing chamber with hot water. She attempted to find the nautical chart while he bathed but accidentally dropped a dagger, startling him. Qin Shang Cheng quickly disarmed her and pulled her into the water, discovering it was Hua Rong. She stammered that she only wanted to wash his clothes again to atone for causing his previous allergic reaction.

Qin Shang Cheng, seeing through her excuse, ordered her out. After she left, he secretly checked a hidden compartment under his bed, confirming the nautical chart was still there. Later, Yue Feng informed Hua Rong that ship travel was now heavily restricted, so their only option was to build their own boat, which he could do as he had secretly saved wood. Hua Rong asked about the nautical chart, and Yue Feng advised caution.

Hua Rong confidently assured him she could find it easily now that she was Qin Shang Cheng's teacher and had free access to his room. Unbeknownst to them, Chen Biao had been observing their closeness. He confronted Yue Feng, asking about his relationship with Hua Rong, which Yue Feng denied, stating they only washed clothes together. When Yue Feng asserted that Chen Biao could not insult his "sister," Chen Biao was enraged and ordered his men to beat Yue Feng.

Hua Rong rushed to Yue Feng's side, distressed by his injuries. He urged her to tolerate the situation for their escape, refusing to name his attacker. However, Hua Rong deduced it was Chen Biao, as he was the only one on the island she wouldn't dare provoke. Refusing to tolerate such injustice, Hua Rong learned that Chen Biao loved crabs.

She went to the kitchen and instructed the cook to deliver a special tea, which she provided, along with the crabs to Chen Biao, claiming it was a reward from Qin Shang Cheng. That night, during a meeting in the assembly hall, Chen Biao proposed they rob a state ship carrying military supplies, seeing it as a lucrative target. Qin Shang Cheng immediately refused, reminding them of his rule against attacking military supply ships.

Their argument was abruptly interrupted by a loud sound, and Chen Biao, suffering from severe diarrhea, rushed out of the hall in embarrassment. The next morning, while Hua Rong was teaching Qin Shang Cheng, Chen Biao arrived with his men and the cook, accusing Hua Rong of poisoning him. The cook testified that Hua Rong had given him the tea for Chen Biao, claiming it was from the Master.

Hua Rong boldly defended herself, pointing out that Qin Shang Cheng had consumed the same tea last night without any ill effects, proving it wasn't poisoned. She suggested Chen Biao's public humiliation was due to eating something unclean or catching a cold. To further provoke him, Hua Rong sarcastically reassured him, saying she would surely not blather about his desire for the Master's position. Enraged, Chen Biao drew his sword and lunged at her.

Qin Shang Cheng intervened, stopping Chen Biao. Hua Rong then dramatically wailed, demanding Chen Biao apologize or for Qin Shang Cheng to handle the matter fairly. Qin Shang Cheng, playing along, ordered Chen Biao to be publicly whipped. Faced with this choice, Chen Biao begrudgingly apologized to Hua Rong. Hua Rong, satisfied, triumphantly thanked Qin Shang Cheng. Afterward, Qin Shang Cheng revealed to Hua Rong that he knew her actions were deliberate.

He reminded her that her admired hero, Yun He, had written about food incompatibilities, meaning Hua Rong must have known that eating crabs and then drinking tea would cause stomach issues. He also deduced her motive was revenge for Chen Biao beating Yue Feng. Hua Rong admitted she would always seek revenge for her "brother." Surprisingly, Qin Shang Cheng merely fined her three months' allowance, leaving Hua Rong astonished by his leniency, given his usual cold and unfeeling demeanor.

Meanwhile, Hu Er continued to instigate Chen Biao, who finally decided to move forward with his plans for rebellion. That night, a fire broke out in the kitchen. Qin Shang Cheng deliberately went to inspect the blaze, creating a diversion for Hua Rong. She seized the opportunity to sneak into his room, located the nautical chart, memorized its details, and then carefully replaced it.

What she didn't know was that Qin Shang Cheng had been observing her from behind the door, and the chart she copied was a fake, swapped by him beforehand. Elated, Hua Rong ran to the beach to find Yue Feng. Qin Shang Cheng and his men then surrounded them.

To utterly convince Hua Rong of her predicament, Qin Shang Cheng proposed a bet: if Hua Rong could navigate the boat out of the area using her memorized map, he would release both her and Yue Feng. However, if she failed, she would have to remain on the island and cease all escape attempts. Hua Rong confidently accepted the wager, shaking Qin Shang Cheng's hand to seal the oath.

Yue Feng expressed his concern, but Hua Rong assured him she would escape and return to rescue him. Hua Rong set sail, but the nautical chart she had memorized proved to be incorrect, and a dense fog quickly enveloped the sea. She was thrown from the boat into the water. When she regained consciousness, disoriented, she believed she had drifted to another island. She wandered around until she encountered two menacing wolves, forcing her to climb a tree for safety.

Qin Shang Cheng arrived just in time and gave her a knife. She used it to cut down a beehive, sending the bees swarming and scaring away the wolves. As she gloated, she slipped from the tree, but Qin Shang Cheng swiftly caught her. Hua Rong confronted him, asking if his persistent attempts to keep her on the island meant he had fallen for her.

She quickly dismissed the notion, declaring her admiration was reserved for peerless heroes like Yun He, not a pirate like him. Later, Hua Rong, having secretly eaten a grilled chicken Qin Shang Cheng had prepared, fell asleep contentedly. A venomous snake then approached her. Without hesitation, Qin Shang Cheng shielded her, taking the bite himself and becoming poisoned. Hua Rong awoke to find him injured and frantically called his name.

Episode 4 Recap

Qin Shang Cheng, having been bitten by a venomous snake while protecting Hua Rong, began to succumb to the poison. Upon waking, Hua Rong, misunderstanding his presence, frantically shouted at him. Qin Shang Cheng tried to walk away, but the poison took hold, and he collapsed. Hua Rong initially considered escaping, thinking that if he died, no one would stop her. However, her conscience prevailed.

She returned to him, vowing aloud that if she saved him, their past grievances would be resolved, but also warning that if he ever sought revenge on her, she would abandon him to the wolves. She struggled to drag the unconscious Qin Shang Cheng back to the stronghold, collapsing from exhaustion just as they reached the gate. Her cries for help were answered by others who quickly gathered, concerned for their master.

Hua Rong awoke to find Yue Feng tending to her. He reassured her that the snake venom in Qin Shang Cheng's body had been extracted, though his body remained weak. Seeing the island in disarray due to the master's illness, Yue Feng urged Hua Rong to seize the opportunity to steal a boat and escape. Hua Rong hesitated, reflecting that without Qin Shang Cheng's intervention, she would have either drowned or died from poison.

She also revealed to Yue Feng that the sea map was fake, confirming Qin Shang Cheng's cunning nature. Soon after, Qian Dayou arrived to inform Hua Rong that Qin Shang Cheng was awake and wished to see her. In his room, a weakened Qin Shang Cheng questioned Hua Rong about her failure to escape. Hua Rong firmly declared her intention to nurse him back to health as a matter of repayment for saving her life.

She asserted her clear understanding of gratitude and revenge, vowing to repay kindness while also pursuing vengeance when necessary. Hua Rong returned to Qin Shang Cheng's room to administer his medicine. He feigned intense pain and discomfort, prompting her to offer him oranges to mask the bitter taste of the medicine. However, Hua Rong quickly saw through his act, realizing he was fully capable of feeding himself and was merely trying to manipulate her.

Annoyed, she attempted to leave, but Qin Shang Cheng stopped her, demanding she read to him to pass the time, insisting it was part of her debt of gratitude. Though internally displeased, Hua Rong reluctantly began to read, as Qin Shang Cheng secretly enjoyed his charade. She continued reading through the night, emerging from his room yawning the next morning.

Shortly after, Qian Dayou entered Qin Shang Cheng's room and reported that the second-in-command was preparing a lavish birthday celebration for him in two days, viewing it as an opportunity to boost morale among the hard-pressed brothers. Qin Shang Cheng agreed to the plan. For the next few days, Qin Shang Cheng exploited Hua Rong's sense of obligation, demanding she read to him, feed him, and assist him with calligraphy practice.

Hua Rong confided in Yue Feng, expressing her frustration at Qin Shang Cheng's constant demands, feeling as though he was tormenting her in a hundred different ways, even for something as simple as taking medicine. Despite her ordeal, she reasoned that Qin Shang Cheng was recovering, and she would endure it until her "gratitude" was fulfilled.

She informed Yue Feng of her plan: during Qin Shang Cheng's birthday celebration, when everyone would be in the main hall, she would sneak into his room to search for the real sea map. Yue Feng cautioned her to be careful, and Hua Rong reassured him, telling him to be cautious as well. On the day of Qin Shang Cheng's birthday, Hua Rong went to the kitchen, finding it deserted. She discovered the cook tied up in a corner.

The terrified cook whispered to Hua Rong that Chen Biao intended to harm Qin Shang Cheng by adding anesthetic to the banquet food, aiming to usurp his position as island master. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Hua Rong immediately decided to warn Qin Shang Cheng. However, the kitchen supervisor appeared, knocking out the cook before attacking Hua Rong. Hua Rong managed to subdue the supervisor, but was then unexpectedly knocked unconscious by Chen Biao, who had suddenly arrived.

Chen Biao ordered his men to lock Hua Rong in the firewood storage, vowing to deal with her personally after he had handled Qin Shang Cheng. Meanwhile, Chen Biao arrived in the main hall where the banquet was underway. He publicly toasted Qin Shang Cheng, wishing him prosperity and long life, then offered a second bowl of wine as a supposed penance for his past transgressions, seeking forgiveness.

Qin Shang Cheng accepted the apology, stating that he would not hold Chen Biao accountable as long as he did not overstep his boundaries, and proceeded to drink the wine. In the firewood storage, Hua Rong regained consciousness. Resourcefully, she used a small dagger hidden in her shoe to cut her ropes, then cleverly outsmarted the guards. Rushing to the main hall, she arrived just as Hu Er was about to offer a toast to Qin Shang Cheng.

Hua Rong immediately intervened, loudly warning Qin Shang Cheng that Chen Biao had poisoned the wine with an anesthetic. Chen Biao, surprised, demanded to know how she uncovered his secret. Hua Rong revealed she had overheard it from the cook and that Chen Biao’s men had then knocked her out and locked her away. Qin Shang Cheng feigned shock, appearing to realize Chen Biao had indeed set the trap he suspected.

Shortly after, Qin Shang Cheng and his loyal subordinates collapsed as if poisoned. Chen Biao, believing his plan had succeeded, applauded triumphantly. A seemingly weak Qin Shang Cheng urged Chen Biao to stand down, but Chen Biao, emboldened by what he thought was victory, scoffed at the idea, declaring himself the new law of the island. Seeing Chen Biao’s unyielding ambition, Qin Shang Cheng dramatically shattered the bowl in his hand and rose to his feet, completely unharmed.

He revealed that he had long seen through Chen Biao's treachery, having anticipated the coup and secretly replaced all the wine with harmless liquid. His earlier collapse was merely an act to lure Chen Biao into revealing the full extent of his plot, giving him one last chance to back down. With his deception exposed, Qin Shang Cheng declared his intention to show no mercy. A fierce battle erupted between Qin Shang Cheng's and Chen Biao's forces.

In the chaos, Chen Biao attempted to seize Hua Rong as a hostage, but she bravely struggled free. Chen Biao was ultimately captured. Desperate, he invoked a past deed, reminding Qin Shang Cheng that he had once saved his life by taking a blade for him, believing this debt of gratitude would spare him.

Qin Shang Cheng acknowledged the debt, admitting that this past favor was why he had always been lenient with Chen Biao, even when he broke the rules. However, recognizing that Chen Biao's constant defiance stemmed from this unrequited obligation, Qin Shang Cheng decided to settle the score then and there, dramatically stabbing himself with a knife. He declared that from that moment on, they owed each other nothing. After the chaos, Qin Shang Cheng had his self-inflicted wound bandaged.

His attendants updated him on the forty-eight captured rebels, who would be dealt with according to island law, and the injured brothers, who would each receive five taels of silver and time to rest. Qin Shang Cheng then summoned Hua Rong, asking if her warning about the poisoned wine was an act of repayment.

Hua Rong denied it, simply stating she found him "a little bit better" than Chen Biao, and that she couldn't live peacefully if Chen Biao was master. She also feigned disinterest in escaping, claiming she enjoyed the good food and fun on the island. Qin Shang Cheng, desiring her to remain by his side, promised to treat her well. Later, Hua Rong mused to herself that the pirate might indeed be falling for her, a realization she decided to exploit.

That night, dressed in a beautiful dance costume, Hua Rong performed a captivating dance for Qin Shang Cheng, then began to ply him with wine, claiming it was a gesture of gratitude for him saving her life once more. Qin Shang Cheng was intrigued, silently wondering if Hua Rong had truly developed feelings for him. Hua Rong continued to encourage Qin Shang Cheng to drink, eventually getting him thoroughly intoxicated.

She subtly tried to extract information about the real sea map, feigning a casual conversation about navigation. Qin Shang Cheng confirmed the map she had was fake, but demanded she drink three more cups of wine before he would reveal the real map's location. After complying, Hua Rong stood up, but her own intoxication caused her to stumble and fall directly into Qin Shang Cheng's arms. The night unfolded into an intimate encounter.

The next morning, Hua Rong awoke mortified to find herself in the same bed as Qin Shang Cheng. She immediately accused him of wrongdoing, but Qin Shang Cheng smugly retorted that she had been the proactive one, embracing him in her drunken state. Her shame quickly turned to rage, and she lashed out, calling him vile and shameless. Qin Shang Cheng dismissed her furious reaction, stating that her petty tricks were beneath him.

Angered by Hua Rong's defiant words, he stormed out of the room to spar with his subordinates. Following their heated argument, Qin Shang Cheng ordered his men to take Hua Rong back to her room, explicitly forbidding her from leaving without his direct command. While Qin Shang Cheng sparred with his subordinates to release his frustration, his men, including Qian Dayou, tried to counsel him on how to placate Hua Rong.

They suggested he consider her perspective as a well-bred woman isolated on the island and urged him to offer rare gifts or a sincere apology. Qin Shang Cheng, however, scoffed at the idea of apologizing, instead ordering Qian Dayou to bring him any valuable items he had been secretly hoarding. Meanwhile, Hua Rong attempted to leave her room, only to be stopped by the guards, who reminded her of Qin Shang Cheng's strict orders. Hua Rong defiantly questioned their right to confine her, sparking a confrontation at the door.

Episode 5 Recap

Hua Rong found herself confined to her room, where Qin Shang Cheng brought her an assortment of gold and silver jewelry, seized from Qian Dayou, in an attempt to appease her. Hua Rong, determined to escape, showed no interest in his gestures. She feigned an attack on Qin Shang Cheng with a hairpin, but he did not evade, prompting her to angrily accuse him of even plotting against himself to keep her captive.

Qin Shang Cheng asserted his intention to take responsibility for her, declaring that they would marry in five days. Hua Rong vehemently refused, calling him crazy and vowing never to marry someone like him. Qin Shang Cheng pulled out the hairpin and left. Later, Qin Shang Cheng’s subordinates, including Qian Dayou, expressed concern over Hua Rong’s dangerous nature and advised against the marriage.

Qin Shang Cheng dismissed their worries, instructing them to ensure Hua Rong remained confined and safe, and to have a clever servant guard her. He affirmed that the wedding would proceed as planned, stating he wished to see what else Hua Rong might attempt. Qian Dayou then reported that Pei Yong’s footprints had been found in Wan Jiang and that brothers sent to investigate at Tian Xian Luo had mysteriously disappeared.

He suggested postponing the marriage, believing apprehending Pei Yong was more urgent, especially as he suspected Pei Yong was connected to the Hei Long group. Qin Shang Cheng acknowledged the urgency but insisted that all matters, including avenging their brothers, would be personally handled by him after the wedding. Meanwhile, Yue Feng, under the pretense of delivering food on the island master's orders, visited Hua Rong. Hua Rong, happy to see Yue Feng, asked him in.

He inquired if the rumors of her marriage to the island master were true. Hua Rong assured him she would never marry Qin Shang Cheng. Yue Feng revealed he had hidden a small boat and noted the guards’ shift changes, needing only to repair the boat. Hua Rong was delighted and stated their next step was to obtain the sea map. Yue Feng wondered how they could acquire it.

Determined to find the map, Hua Rong summoned Qian Dayou late that night, requesting him to take her to Qin Shang Cheng’s room to apologize. Qian Dayou was reluctant, suspecting a trick. Hua Rong feigned deep remorse for harming Qin Shang Cheng and, in a calculated move, praised Qin Shang Cheng’s wealth, fame, handsomeness, and kindness towards her, implying her genuine change of heart.

She further convinced him by returning the gold and silver jewelry Qin Shang Cheng had given her, reminding him they were originally his. Convinced by her apparent sincerity and the returned valuables, Qian Dayou agreed to assist her, warning her not to cause any trouble. Once in Qin Shang Cheng’s room, Hua Rong offered to apply medicine to his wound, apologizing for her impulsiveness.

She told him she no longer wished to hear his past words, and agreed to marry him, explaining that since he wouldn't release her, she decided to stop resisting. She reasoned that if she couldn't be a knight, being an island master’s wife wasn't a bad alternative. Qin Shang Cheng promised she wouldn't regret being his wife, but Hua Rong voiced concerns about his trust, citing her previous confinement.

In response, Qin Shang Cheng handed her the token of the island's master, granting her the authority to do anything on the island, promising not to interfere with her freedom as long as she willingly married him. The next morning, Qin Shang Cheng brought Hua Rong to the training grounds. His men questioned her presence, but Qin Shang Cheng explained he had ordered 13 trays of cakes from the capital for her.

Hua Rong happily ate them, but then became annoyed when Qian Dayou addressed her as "Mistress" at Qin Shang Cheng's insistence, and she left. Qin Shang Cheng’s men deduced that he was keeping Hua Rong close to prevent her escape before the wedding, which Qin Shang Cheng confirmed to Qian Dayou, instructing him to keep a close watch on Yue Feng. His subordinates grumbled that Qin Shang Cheng had changed, prioritizing Hua Rong over them.

Later, Hua Rong, using the island master's token, gained entry to the weapon center, believing the true sea map was hidden there. She quickly realized the immense size of the armory would make finding it difficult and decided to leave for the moment. Outside, she encountered Qin Shang Cheng, who inquired about her presence. She casually claimed she was merely visiting since it was on her way.

When he questioned what she saw inside, she defiantly asked if there was anything she couldn't see. Hua Rong knew Qin Shang Cheng still harbored distrust and that her escape plan would fail if exposed. Using a small item she had picked up, she subtly implied he was breaking his word too soon, reminding him of his earlier promise that she could take anything she wanted.

Qin Shang Cheng assured her that he would uphold his word if she was sincere, then returned the small item to her, reiterating his promise not to go back on his word. Seizing an opportune moment when Qin Shang Cheng's guard was down, Hua Rong stealthily returned to the weapon center. This time, she successfully located the sea map and meticulously memorized its details.

Back in her room, she began to transcribe the map onto paper when Qin Shang Cheng unexpectedly entered. She quickly covered her work, claiming she was preparing a surprise gift for him to be revealed on their wedding day. Qin Shang Cheng then shared his personal history, revealing that he was an orphan raised by an adoptive father who taught him Kungfu.

He explained that his adoptive father’s death was suspicious and likely connected to Pei Yong, then asked Hua Rong if she would help him investigate. Hua Rong agreed, prompting Qin Shang Cheng to suggest she help him prepare for a bath. Later, Hua Rong met with Yue Feng, expressing her admiration for his work on the boat. Yue Feng confirmed that with a few modifications, the boat would be ready for sea.

Hua Rong then proudly presented the sea map, a copy she had meticulously drawn from memory, assuring Yue Feng that Qin Shang Cheng would not detect its absence. Impressed, Yue Feng confirmed his belief in her, and they decided to execute their escape plan the following day, immediately after the wedding. The next day, a grand wedding ceremony was held. During her preparations, Hua Rong expressed impatience with the traditional rituals.

As the ceremony began, Qin Shang Cheng, disregarding convention, boldly declared himself the rule. During the bows, he instructed Hua Rong to bow to his father's memorial tablet, explaining he couldn't invite her father in time. Hua Rong silently dismissed the entire ceremony as a farce, urging her deceased father not to believe in it. In the bridal chamber, Qin Shang Cheng read aloud from the wedding paper, surprising Hua Rong by revealing his literacy.

He playfully teased her about her previous deceptions. He then asked her to sign the wedding paper, making their union official. Hua Rong, with her escape plan firmly in mind, casually signed her name, internally dismissing the significance of the document. Qin Shang Cheng, overjoyed by her signature, was about to kiss her when his men called him away to celebrate with them.

Before leaving, he declared his undying love for Hua Rong, swearing before the heavens to love only her. Hua Rong dismissed him to join his men, promising to give him his gift upon his return. Outside the bridal chamber, Yue Feng approached the two guards, offering them strong wine, claiming it was from Qin Shang Cheng and boasting of its potency to intoxicate even the most seasoned drinkers within fifteen minutes.

The guards readily accepted, drank, and quickly succumbed to the wine, passing out. Seizing the opportunity, Hua Rong slipped past the unconscious guards and fled. Returning to the bridal chamber, Qin Shang Cheng discovered Hua Rong’s absence. Stunned and heartbroken, he silently swore that he would find Hua Rong, no matter where she went in the world. Meanwhile, out on the stormy sea, Hua Rong and Yue Feng battled the massive waves in their small boat.

Yue Feng voiced his concern that the boat might capsize, but Hua Rong instructed him to paddle in a direction that would allow them to float towards a nearby village if overturned, advising him to cling to any floating debris. Suddenly, a large ship appeared behind them, and Hua Rong realized it was Qin Shang Cheng’s vessel. A powerful wave struck their small boat, capsizing it. Later, Qin Shang Cheng’s men discovered the wreckage of the small boat.

Hesitant to deliver the grim news, they eventually informed Qin Shang Cheng of their findings. Unfazed, Qin Shang Cheng ordered them to continue the search, vowing to find Hua Rong, alive or dead.

Episode 6 Recap

Hua Rong awoke with a start from a nightmare, screaming as she dreamed of Qin Shang Cheng pursuing her relentlessly. She found herself in a bed, a man introducing himself as Mr. Jin (Jin Yiwen) by her side. Yue Feng explained that Jin Yiwen had rescued them after their boat capsized in the storm. Jin Yiwen asked if Hua Rong remembered him, presenting a package to jog her memory.

She then recalled a previous encounter in Yin Cheng when she had bumped into him while being chased. Jin Yiwen inquired about the whereabouts of his travel manuscript, which documented his travels. Hua Rong, embarrassed, admitted she had burned it for warmth during a cold night in Dong Yang. Enraged, Jin Yiwen abruptly turned to leave. His servant, Lai Sheng, tactlessly questioned Hua Rong about fleeing a marriage, prompting Jin Yiwen to chastise him for his lack of discretion.

Back on the island, Qin Shang Cheng was consumed by sorrow over Hua Rong's disappearance, drinking heavily. He refused Qian Dayou’s suggestion to remove the wedding candles, vehemently asserting that Hua Rong, after all her effort to escape, could not have died so easily in the storm; he was convinced she was still alive. In his room, Qin Shang Cheng wistfully remembered moments with Hua Rong and gazed at their marriage contract.

A pang of sadness struck him as he realized she had always been deceiving him. He nearly tore the contract but couldn't bring himself to destroy it. Drunk, he hallucinated Hua Rong enticing him on his bed, only to find a strange woman in her place, a woman Qian Dayou had sent to cheer him up. Qin Shang Cheng summoned Qian Dayou, offering him tea and declaring his sole interest was Hua Rong.

He insisted that she was his only wife and must be found, whether alive or dead. Meanwhile, Hua Rong found herself reminiscing about Qin Shang Cheng, a smile playing on her lips before she mentally chided herself, reminding herself that they were no longer bound. She refocused on her immediate task: repaying Jin Yiwen. With her exceptional memory, Hua Rong spent two days meticulously rewriting Jin Yiwen’s entire manuscript.

Upon receiving the re-written manuscript, Jin Yiwen was astonished that she could reproduce it so accurately without understanding the characters. He marveled at Tian Chu, recognizing it as a land of concealed talents. Hua Rong humbly apologized for her earlier actions. Yue Feng informed Hua Rong that the money from the recently robbed official boat was ill-gotten, explaining why the imperial court did not pursue Qin Shang Cheng's pirates.

Realizing they were still in a coastal area and their health had recovered, Yue Feng suggested they leave quickly, fearing Qin Shang Cheng might track them down. Hua Rong acknowledged his foresight but revealed she had one more mission to complete before their departure. On the island, Qin Shang Cheng ordered all ships to embark on a search for Hua Rong. A subordinate reported news of Pei Yong in Yin Cheng.

Qian Dayou advised Qin Shang Cheng to personally go to the coastal town of Yin Cheng. He reasoned that it would be more effective to search for Pei Yong there and simultaneously inquire about Hua Rong, as she might have been rescued by someone in the area. Qin Shang Cheng agreed to this plan. Later, while briefly resting at a cloth shop, Qin Shang Cheng thought he caught a glimpse of Hua Rong but she quickly disappeared.

He then instructed Qian Dayou to expand the search, emphasizing that Hua Rong might be in disguise, a suggestion Qian Dayou privately dismissed as paranoia. Hua Rong and Yue Feng arrived at Tian Xian Lou, determined to rescue Xiao Hui. They attempted to enter with Hua Rong disguised as a man, but guards stopped them at the entrance. Jin Yiwen, observing the scene, ignited a string of firecrackers, creating a diversion that allowed Hua Rong and Yue Feng to escape.

After rescuing them, Jin Yiwen learned Hua Rong's reason for infiltrating Tian Xian Lou was to save Xiao Hui. Impressed by her chivalry, he decided to join their mission. Hua Rong declared their ultimate goal was to find and burn all the indentures at the brothel, thereby freeing the enslaved women.

Jin Yiwen instructed his servant, Master Yang, that a grand spectacle tomorrow would help him attract a person he wished to meet, dismissing Master Yang's concerns about drawing too much attention. The next day, Hua Rong, disguised as an old man, accompanied Yue Feng and Jin Yiwen, who were dressed as girls, to Tian Xian Lou. Hua Rong explained to Mama Hua that these were her two "intelligent daughters" whom she wished to sell.

Mama Hua, unimpressed by their looks or talents, was about to refuse until Hua Rong offered a "buy one, get one free" deal. Mama Hua eagerly accepted, asking them to sign the indentures. She noticed Jin Yiwen's and Yue Feng’s last names, Jin and Yue, which were different, making her suspicious. Hua Rong quickly explained that one girl took her mother's surname (Yue), and the other took her (the disguised father's) surname (Jin).

That night, Hua Rong, Yue Feng, and Jin Yiwen stealthily entered Mama Hua's room, searching for the indentures. Mama Hua suddenly returned, discovering them hidden in the wardrobe. After a struggle, they subdued her, using a chicken feather broom to coerce her into revealing the location of the indentures in a drawer. As they retrieved the stack of contracts, Mama Hua screamed, alerting the guards. The three quickly fled, pursued by the thugs.

They burst into a room, interrupting a meeting between Pei Yong and a masked individual. Coincidentally, Qin Shang Cheng arrived at Tian Xian Lou, having received word of Pei Yong's presence. As Hua Rong fled through the building, she crashed into Qin Shang Cheng and immediately darted away. Qin Shang Cheng, focused on capturing Pei Yong, let her go for the moment. Pei Yong managed to escape once more, claiming his subordinate had already escorted the masked person away.

Hua Rong, upon returning to the inn from Tian Xian Lou, hastily packed her belongings, intent on leaving immediately. Jin Yiwen, confused by her urgency, questioned her, but Hua Rong offered no explanation, her true desire being to evade Qin Shang Cheng. Jin Yiwen and Yue Feng followed her to a desolate temple, where they decided to spend the night. Throughout the night, Hua Rong was plagued by nightmares, haunted by visions of Qin Shang Cheng chasing her.

Episode 7 Recap

Hua Rong, Jin Yiwen, and their companions found shelter in a dilapidated temple. Late that night, Hua Rong heard sounds of fighting outside and, fearing it was Qin Shang Cheng pursuing her, cried out for him to kill her but spare the others. She opened the door to find bodies strewn about, with Qin Shang Cheng standing in the courtyard, realizing he had eliminated the assassins sent by Pei Yong. Hua Rong was too stunned to speak.

More assassins then charged forward, showering them with arrows. Qin Shang Cheng quickly pulled Hua Rong into a mountain cave, warning her that he would never let her leave him again and would settle accounts with her once they returned to his island. Jin Yiwen soon joined them, assuring Hua Rong that reinforcements were on their way. Hua Rong, delighted, playfully tapped Jin Yiwen, acknowledging his exceptional nature.

Inside the cave, Qin Shang Cheng reiterated that Hua Rong was his wife, bound by formal betrothal, and having seen her disappear from his sight once, he would not let her escape again. Hua Rong struggled against him and, in a fit of defiance, declared that she already had someone she liked—Jin Yiwen, who was standing right there. Enraged, Qin Shang Cheng drew his sword, threatening to kill Jin Yiwen.

Jin Yiwen calmly intervened, stating that Hua Rong was a woman of spirit and her own opinions. He argued that if Qin Shang Cheng failed to respect her, even killing him would not prevent Hua Rong from finding someone else to love. Just then, more assassins caught up to them outside the cave. As Qin Shang Cheng prepared to confront them, Jin Yiwen's subordinate, Lai Sheng, arrived with his men and swiftly eliminated all the attackers.

Seizing the opportunity, Hua Rong triumphantly boarded Jin Yiwen's carriage, leaving Qin Shang Cheng behind. When Qian Dayou finally arrived with his men, Qin Shang Cheng, furious, ordered him to thoroughly investigate Jin Yiwen's background. Inside the carriage, Hua Rong confessed to Jin Yiwen that her declaration of liking him in the cave was merely a ploy to escape Qin Shang Cheng, asking him not to take it to heart.

Jin Yiwen, though slightly flustered, graciously replied that it was his honor to help her, bringing a sense of relief to Hua Rong. He watched her, realizing he had unknowingly developed feelings for her. Hua Rong and Jin Yiwen checked into an inn. They had barely settled when Qin Shang Cheng also arrived to lodge there, causing Hua Rong to spit out her tea in exasperation upon seeing him.

Qian Dayou informed Qin Shang Cheng that the previous assassins targeting Hua Rong were from the Black Dragon Gang. Qin Shang Cheng was enraged, vowing severe retaliation against anyone who dared to harm his woman. Qin Shang Cheng then approached Hua Rong, inviting her for a walk. Hua Rong, annoyed, curtly refused, stating she had no desire to go out.

Moments later, Jin Yiwen extended the same invitation, and Hua Rong's demeanor immediately brightened as she eagerly accepted, declaring she was eager to go out after all. The two left together. Qin Shang Cheng, displeased, complained to his subordinates about Hua Rong's constant closeness to "that Jin boy" and resolved to find a way to teach him a lesson. Qin Shang Cheng and his men persistently followed Hua Rong, leading her to frustration.

One day, Hua Rong covertly blew some sleeping powder into Qin Shang Cheng's room, rendering him unconscious. Relieved, she happily left to stroll the streets with Yue Feng. Upon waking, Qin Shang Cheng discovered Hua Rong was gone. Jin Yiwen smugly informed him that Hua Rong had likely gone out for a walk to avoid him.

Qin Shang Cheng, vexed, warned Jin Yiwen that once he uncovered his true identity, he would show no mercy, to which Jin Yiwen retorted with equal disdain, suggesting Qin Shang Cheng focus on understanding Hua Rong's feelings instead of wasting time on him. While walking, Hua Rong witnessed a man beating a girl. Recognizing her as Xiao Hui, she realized it was Xiao Hui's father attempting to sell her again to cover gambling debts.

Enraged, Hua Rong demanded paper and pen, then paid Xiao Hui's father a sum of money in exchange for a signed deed of sale, declaring Xiao Hui to be her person from that moment on. Back at the inn, Hua Rong instructed a servant to prepare bathwater for Xiao Hui. Qin Shang Cheng, overhearing, was secretly delighted, imagining a scenario where he would surprise Hua Rong in the bath, leading her to shyly fall into his arms.

Excited by this fantasy, he rushed to the bathhouse, stripped naked, and climbed into the tub to await Hua Rong's arrival. After some time, it was Jin Yiwen who entered, began undressing for his own bath, and discovered Qin Shang Cheng's presence and intentions. Jin Yiwen openly mocked Qin Shang Cheng's "obscene" plan, leading to a furious scuffle between them. They crashed through the door, tumbling naked into the hallway.

Hua Rong and others, drawn by the commotion, arrived to find the two men intertwined and unclothed, leading them to question if the pair harbored unusual inclinations. Hua Rong helped Xiao Hui undress and was heartbroken to discover numerous scars on her body, inflicted by her father and the people from Tianxian Tower. Filled with sympathy, Hua Rong went to Jin Yiwen to request some healing medicine for Xiao Hui.

Later, as Hua Rong prepared to go for a stroll in Jin Yiwen's carriage, Qin Shang Cheng attempted to join them, but Hua Rong firmly rejected him. Watching the carriage depart, Qin Shang Cheng clenched his teeth, vowing that Hua Rong would not escape him so easily.

Episode 8 Recap

Jin Yiwen brought Hua Rong to a restaurant, where he had ordered her favorite hometown dishes: dumplings with shepherd's purse soup, Gui Hua's lotus roots, and eel noodles. Hua Rong expressed how much she missed them, reminiscing about her childhood and how her father would buy her caramelized haws to cheer her up after punishments. Jin Yiwen subtly claimed it was a mere coincidence that he found a restaurant serving such dishes.

Later, Jin Yiwen went to buy caramelized haws for Hua Rong. A young beggar approached him, pleading for money, and discreetly stole his jade pendant. Jin Yiwen immediately noticed the theft and pursued the beggar. The beggar, however, delivered the jade pendant to Qian Dayou, who, after inspecting it and finding no useful information, instructed the beggar to keep Jin Yiwen busy for a while longer before returning the item.

Meanwhile, Hua Rong, Yue Feng, and Xiao Hui grew concerned when Jin Yiwen did not return. They went out to search for him amidst the festive lanterns. Hua Rong found it odd that various people kept approaching her to offer flowers and candy figurines. Yue Feng investigated and discovered that Qian Dayou had secretly arranged these gestures. Hua Rong then demanded that Qian Dayou lead her to Qin Shang Cheng.

Qin Shang Cheng took Hua Rong to the lantern night market. Hua Rong excitedly began solving the lantern riddles. Qin Shang Cheng challenged her, promising a gift if she could answer all of them. Hua Rong, spurred on, quickly wrote down the answers. Qin Shang Cheng then arranged her answers into a phrase: "Hua Rong loves Qin Shang Cheng," which left Hua Rong both embarrassed and annoyed.

At Qin Shang Cheng's signal, brilliant fireworks erupted into the sky, surprising and delighting Hua Rong. She wondered why the street was so empty, and learned that Qin Shang Cheng had rented the entire street for them to have it to themselves, with his men guarding the entrances. Hua Rong was furious at his overbearing act. Just then, Jin Yiwen and his servant, Lei Sheng, found them.

Jin Yiwen recognized the beggar who stole his jade pendant as Qin Shang Cheng's subordinate, revealing that Qin Shang Cheng had deliberately orchestrated the diversion. Hua Rong severely reprimanded Qin Shang Cheng for his actions. Soon after, a subordinate called Qin Shang Cheng away. Hua Rong continued to stroll. Suddenly, Yuan Ming, a disciple from Hua Fu, stopped her, attempting to take her back home. Hua Rong frantically ran away.

Jin Yiwen intervened, holding Yuan Ming back while Lei Sheng held his legs, preventing him from moving. Yuan Ming loudly threatened to report them to the patrolling guards. Qin Shang Cheng’s subordinate, Zhang Xian, helped Hua Rong escape in a carriage. He explained that although Qin Shang Cheng had left, he had sent Zhang Xian to protect her, revealing that Qin Shang Cheng had gone to the Black Dragon Band's Tangkou to avenge her.

Xiao Hui informed Hua Rong that the Black Dragon Band's Tangkou was rigged with numerous explosive traps underground. Worried for Qin Shang Cheng’s safety, Hua Rong rushed towards the Tangkou. Qin Shang Cheng and his men arrived and quickly subdued the Black Dragon Band members after a fight. Hua Rong, Yue Feng, and Xiao Hui secretly entered the underground area. Yue Feng began disarming the explosive mechanisms.

To ensure Qin Shang Cheng’s safety, Hua Rong hurried to the surface, finding him interrogating a Black Dragon Band member. In a moment of panic, Hua Rong tackled Qin Shang Cheng to the ground, warning him about the explosives. When no explosion occurred, Hua Rong happily concluded that Yue Feng must have disarmed the bombs, making Qin Shang Cheng pleased by her obvious concern for him.

Hua Rong visited the dungeon, where Xiao Hui told her that many women, abducted by the Black Dragon Band, had been imprisoned there with her, but they had since been moved. Qin Shang Cheng assisted Hua Rong in searching for clues. In a room within the Black Dragon Band's hideout, Hua Rong discovered a note indicating that the women were being held at the dock, to be sold within three days.

Driven by her sense of justice, Hua Rong was determined to rescue the women. In her room, she spoke to Xiao Hui about her admiration for the powerful Hero Cloud Crane, aspiring to be like him. They set up an incense altar and devoutly prayed for Cloud Crane's protection. Qin Shang Cheng, without knocking, burst into the room. Seeing them worshiping Cloud Crane, he scoffed at their efforts, dismissing Cloud Crane's supposed "useless" items like darts, rope, and wormwood.

He then told Hua Rong to call him "husband," promising he could crush the entire Black Dragon Band and save the women, rather than just one person. Annoyed by his inappropriate remarks, Hua Rong angrily threw him out. That night, Hua Rong and Yue Feng donned dark clothes and went to the dock. They found no resistance entering the ship's cabin; the two guards were already unconscious, and the room where the women were held was unlocked.

This allowed them to easily rescue the women. Yue Feng was puzzled by how smoothly their mission had gone, unaware that Qin Shang Cheng had already cleared out the dock's guards beforehand. When guards discovered the intruders, Pei Yong rushed forward with his men. Hua Rong stayed behind to cover the escape but was outmatched by Pei Yong. Just as she was about to be defeated, Qin Shang Cheng, disguised as Hero Cloud Crane, appeared and rescued her.

Yue Feng and Xiao Hui released the rescued women, providing them with money and clothes and urging them to flee far away. Qin Shang Cheng brought Hua Rong to a safe location. Believing him to be the true Hero Cloud Crane, Hua Rong was filled with admiration and gratitude. After much pleading, Qin Shang Cheng reluctantly gave her a small bell he plucked from a tree, promising to appear whenever she rang it if she was in danger.

Hua Rong returned to Yue Feng and Xiao Hui, still gushing about Hero Cloud Crane. Meanwhile, Qin Shang Cheng went back to the dock and confronted Pei Yong. He demanded to know if Pei Yong was the one who killed his father eight years ago and stole half of the treasure map. Pei Yong admitted to the murder and theft. As Qin Shang Cheng pressed him to reveal the true mastermind, Pei Yong attempted to name the King of Hell before cunningly escaping.

Episode 9 Recap

Hua Rong dreamt of the Cloud Crane hero appearing after she rang a bell, waking her with a smile. Later, a tipsy Qin Shang Cheng knocked on her door, teasing her and eager to hear about heroic deeds from the previous night. Hua Rong recounted how Cloud Crane hero rescued abducted girls and herself, subtly criticizing Qin Shang Cheng for his inaction.

As Qin Shang Cheng prepared to leave, he twirled a chopstick between his fingers, a gesture that immediately reminded Hua Rong of her admired Cloud Crane hero, sparking her suspicion. To dispel her doubts, Hua Rong questioned the inn's waiter about Qin Shang Cheng's whereabouts the previous night. The waiter confirmed that Qin Shang Cheng had spent the entire night drinking in his room, consuming all the inn's alcohol, which put Hua Rong at ease.

Shortly after, Hua Rong encountered Jin Yiwen, who informed her that he and Lai Sheng had been detained overnight at the government office while trying to stop Yuan Ming. Hua Rong expressed her apologies and excitedly shared her encounter with Cloud Crane hero, mentioning the bell he gave her and his promise to appear whenever she rang it.

Meanwhile, at their hideout, Pei Yong reported to his gang leader that someone using the name "Cloud Crane hero" had caused trouble at the docks. The leader surmised that this imposter might know about their half of the treasure map, and perhaps even possess the other half, ordering Pei Yong to immediately investigate the true identity of this "Cloud Crane hero." Back at the inn, Hua Rong prepared an elaborate meal in her room, hoping to summon Cloud Crane hero.

Outside, Zhang Xian, a subordinate of Qin Shang Cheng, startled Xiao Hui, who was guarding the door, causing her to faint. Qin Shang Cheng then entered Hua Rong's room and began to feast on the prepared dishes. When Hua Rong awoke and saw Qin Shang Cheng, she was furious. He playfully teased her with the bell, asking if she still believed Cloud Crane would appear and stating she wasn't ringing it hard enough. During their playful struggle, they accidentally kissed.

Enraged, Hua Rong punched Qin Shang Cheng in the eye. Separately, Lai Sheng discussed Hua Rong with Jin Yiwen, noting her noble background and close ties to a prince. Despite these complications, Jin Yiwen affirmed Hua Rong's generous nature and his steadfast resolve to pursue her, promising to reveal his true identity once his current mission was complete. He then instructed Lai Sheng to prepare for important matters.

The next day, Xiao Hui informed Hua Rong that Cloud Crane hero had been sighted at the Lantern Festival the previous night. Hua Rong rushed to the streets, asking passersby for details. She learned that Cloud Crane hero had saved people from a fire, and his hair was scorched in the process, almost turning him into a "roasted duck."

Back at the inn, Hua Rong noticed candle wax on Jin Yiwen's clothes and, upon closer inspection, saw singed ends on his hair. This observation renewed her suspicion that Jin Yiwen might be Cloud Crane hero. Hua Rong decided to test Jin Yiwen's martial arts, observing his seemingly weak skills, which made her wonder if he was deliberately hiding his abilities. Later, she secretly entered Jin Yiwen's room and hid.

To her delight, she witnessed Jin Yiwen, dressed in Cloud Crane hero's attire, leap through the window. Overjoyed, Hua Rong confronted him, immediately forgiving him for not appearing when she rang the bell, assuming he was busy fighting for justice. She assured him she would keep his secret, stating her unwavering admiration for him. Hua Rong began doting on Jin Yiwen, bringing him water and expensive buns, much to Qin Shang Cheng's visible annoyance.

Qin Shang Cheng disrupted their meal, criticizing Jin Yiwen's perceived weakness and tearing his fan. He offered a quick apology, but Hua Rong was furious at his rudeness. At that moment, Yuan Ming arrived at the inn. Jin Yiwen quietly informed Qin Shang Cheng that Yuan Ming was Hua Rong's childhood friend and adopted brother. Hua Rong took Yuan Ming to her room, where he pressed her to return home and account for her absence to her father.

Hua Rong pleaded for two more days, insisting she needed to bid farewell to Cloud Crane hero. Yuan Ming reluctantly agreed but cautioned her against getting entangled in the "fighting and killing of the underworld." Later, Hua Rong walked with Jin Yiwen through the streets, telling him she would be returning home with Yuan Ming. Jin Yiwen then confessed that he might not be the real Cloud Crane hero, lamenting that bearing his fame was an "inevitable misery."

Misinterpreting his words, Hua Rong reassured him that her admiration stemmed from his character, not his fame, asserting he would always be her idol regardless of his identity. Jin Yiwen sighed, promising to visit her and explain everything after completing his tasks. Qin Shang Cheng, observing them from a distance, wondered if Hua Rong had truly fallen for Jin Yiwen. That night, assassins from the Black Long Gang, who had been tracking Hua Rong and Jin Yiwen, infiltrated the inn.

Jin Yiwen fought them, realizing he was their primary target, and urged Hua Rong to flee. Just then, Qin Shang Cheng, disguised as Cloud Crane hero, appeared and diverted the assassins' attention, leading them away from the inn. Qin Shang Cheng captured one of the assassins and began interrogating him. Hua Rong, having heard the assassins' earlier conversation, interjected, revealing that they were there to kidnap Cloud Crane hero.

Before Qin Shang Cheng could press further for information, the assassin committed suicide by crashing his head into a pillar. Under Qin Shang Cheng's persistent questioning, Jin Yiwen finally admitted that he was not the true Cloud Crane hero. He explained that he was from Wan Jiang, a prominent family, and his mother suffered from a chronic respiratory illness.

The only cure was a rare spiritual object called "Yue Ying Dong Zhu," which had been in the possession of a notorious pirate. Two years prior, the real Cloud Crane hero had killed this pirate, and the Yue Ying Dong Zhu had disappeared ever since. Jin Yiwen confessed that he had been impersonating Cloud Crane hero to attract the real one's attention, hoping to inquire about the item's whereabouts.

He expressed regret for involving Hua Rong and Qin Shang Cheng in his dangerous charade. Qin Shang Cheng scoffed at Jin Yiwen for making such a spectacle while being a mere imposter. Hua Rong, however, defended Jin Yiwen, calling Qin Shang Cheng rude and urging him to apologize, to which Qin Shang Cheng retorted that he needed to secure the inn with his own guards given the threat. Jin Yiwen thanked Qin Shang Cheng for his assistance. Hua Rong offered to tend to Jin Yiwen's wounds and asked if he was upset with her.

Episode 10 Recap

After everyone else departed, Hua Rong apologized to Jin Yiwen, advising him to disregard Qin Shang Cheng's impoliteness and the recent troubles caused by the Hei Long Bang. Jin Yiwen, in turn, asked if she blamed him for impersonating Warrior Yun He. Hua Rong responded that it was, in fact, her impulsiveness that had brought him much trouble, and she should be the one to apologize. She reiterated that seeking medicine for his mother was perfectly justifiable.

After Hua Rong left, Lai Sheng entered and praised Hua Rong's generosity, urging Jin Yiwen to seize the opportunity. Lai Sheng noted that Jin Yiwen had never looked at any other woman the way he looked at Hua Rong, emphasizing Hua Rong's pure and warm heart. However, Jin Yiwen lamented that Hua Rong's lack of anger over his deception meant he had no chance with her.

He concluded that while she was reasonable and understood principles, what he truly desired was love, and love could not flourish where one person appeared indifferent. Following the recent skirmish, Xiao Hui, who had killed an assassin to protect Hua Rong, was distraught. Back in her room, she frantically washed her hands, insisting she still saw blood. Hua Rong found her and firmly assured Xiao Hui that her actions were justified, making her a life savior.

Kneeling, Hua Rong implored Xiao Hui to continue protecting her, especially as she had offended the nefarious Hei Long Bang and anticipated further attacks. Xiao Hui promised to protect her, and Hua Rong promptly declared her a personal bodyguard, offering to celebrate this promotion. The next day, Xiao Hui approached Zhang Xian, earnestly asking to become his apprentice. Zhang Xian initially tried to refuse and avoid her, but Xiao Hui persisted, crying and begging, emphasizing Zhang Xian's superior kung fu.

Overwhelmed, Zhang Xian finally agreed to accept her on one condition: she must cut a large wooden post in two. Xiao Hui eagerly accepted the challenge, vowing to do her utmost. Xiao Hui relentlessly chopped at the wooden post in the courtyard. She refused Hua Rong's attempts to make her rest and tend to a wound, insisting she could do it to protect her. As night fell, Xiao Hui continued, her determination fueled by her new purpose.

Qin Shang Cheng, Zhang Xian, and others gathered, observing her. Qin Shang Cheng playfully noted Zhang Xian’s unusual attentiveness, while Qian Dayou and others initially doubted Xiao Hui’s persistence but then acknowledged Zhang Xian’s integrity. Finally, Xiao Hui succeeded in splitting the post. Reminded of his promise, Zhang Xian reluctantly accepted her as his apprentice, and Xiao Hui performed the traditional disciple's bow.

Jin Yiwen then informed Hua Rong that his mother, concerned about his injuries and the loss of half his shadow guards, had sent a letter urging his immediate return to Wan Jiang. He explained that his mother's orders were absolute, and he must depart. Hua Rong was visibly saddened.

Qin Shang Cheng, however, was pleased by the news and intervened, offering to manage the travel arrangements and suggesting they set off the day after tomorrow, despite Jin Yiwen’s preference to leave sooner. The following day, as Jin Yiwen prepared to depart, Hua Rong bid him farewell.

She expressed concern about the "Yue Ying Dong Zhu" elixir and promised that if she ever encountered Warrior Yun He again, she would obtain it and personally deliver it to Wan Jiang for his mother. Jin Yiwen welcomed her to Wan Jiang if she ever visited. Qin Shang Cheng, jubilant, presented Jin Yiwen with local specialties for his journey. Lai Sheng playfully noted Qin Shang Cheng's obvious delight, inferring his wish for Jin Yiwen never to return.

Qin Shang Cheng then helped Jin Yiwen into his carriage, loudly wishing him a safe journey and explicitly hoping he would not come back. In the courtyard, Xiao Hui continued her martial arts practice with unwavering focus. Zhang Xian watched over her, holding an umbrella and fanning himself. Qian Dayou and others gathered, amused by Zhang Xian’s uncharacteristic attentiveness, joking that he was "beginning to understand." They even placed bets on how long Xiao Hui would persist.

Meanwhile, Yuan Ming and Hua Rong exited the inn. Yuan Ming again pressed Hua Rong to return home with him. Hua Rong, seeking to appease him, reluctantly agreed. Qin Shang Cheng then appeared, openly challenging Yuan Ming and stating that Hua Rong clearly did not wish to accompany him. Yuan Ming, suspicious, questioned Qin Shang Cheng’s identity. Qin Shang Cheng identified himself as a wealthy businessman but dismissed Yuan Ming's curiosity.

Yuan Ming, noting Qin Shang Cheng’s crude manners, warned Hua Rong against associating with him, but Hua Rong maintained they were merely ordinary friends. As Yuan Ming left, he reminded Hua Rong to uphold her promise to return. Later that evening, Hua Rong, seeking fresh air, encountered "Warrior Yun He," who was Qin Shang Cheng in disguise. He flirtatiously confessed he had missed her. Hua Rong inquired about the whereabouts of the Yue Ying Dong Zhu. "

Warrior Yun He" confirmed he possessed it and provocatively asked how she intended to repay him. Hua Rong immediately recognized Qin Shang Cheng's voice, pulled off his mask, and punched him in the eye. Qin Shang Cheng's companions later teased him about being bested by a girl. He dismissed their jokes, pointing out that Yuan Ming had long been suspicious of them and that Hua Rong had deliberately concealed his identity to protect them.

He then vowed to make Hua Rong fall in love with his true self. The next day, Qin Shang Cheng's men discussed Xiao Hui's departure, but Qin Shang Cheng redirected their attention to Hua Rong and Yuan Ming. Yuan Ming then informed Hua Rong that her father, Hua Man Tian, had fallen off his horse and sustained injuries while investigating a case; he was now recuperating at Su mansion.

Deeply concerned, Hua Rong expressed disbelief, knowing her father was an adept rider, and insisted on immediately going to see him rather than returning home first. Yuan Ming tried to dissuade her, citing the ten-day journey and the inherent dangers. Hua Rong pleaded with him, promising to obey his instructions and act cautiously if he allowed her to go. Qin Shang Cheng, observing this, deduced that Hua Rong was intentionally protecting them from Yuan Ming's scrutiny.

He decided against following them by land, instead ordering his men to travel by sea to the border town within three days. Upon their arrival at the border town, Hua Rong and Yuan Ming found the streets unusually empty; unbeknownst to Hua Rong, this was Qin Shang Cheng's doing. Hua Rong rushed to her father's side at Su mansion. Her cousin informed her that her father only needed a few months to recover.

Her father, while relieved to see her, chided her for making such a long trip and worrying him. Hua Rong was dismayed to discover her father had an arrow wound, not merely injuries from a fall. Her father explained that after his fall, he was attacked by assassins while en route to his post, and Qin Shang Cheng had bravely rescued him and his brothers.

Mr. Hua expressed immense gratitude, stating he wished to adopt Qin Shang Cheng as his son, but since Qin Shang Cheng declined, he appointed him as his personal bodyguard. Qin Shang Cheng humbly accepted the role, expressing his honor to serve Mr. Hua, while Hua Rong reacted with disbelief. Despite Qin Shang Cheng's assurance of his father's safety, Hua Rong defiantly insisted on personally caring for her injured father. Her clumsy ministrations, however, caused her father considerable discomfort.

He reflected on Hua Rong’s spirited nature, noting that she had been raised like a boy and was now "too wild to control," expressing regret over his indulgence. He then informed Hua Rong of his decision to adopt Yue Feng as his son, believing Yue Feng would provide better care. Later that evening, Mr. Hua summoned Qin Shang Cheng, revealing that an urgent government letter was pressuring him regarding the ongoing case.

Due to his injuries, he intended to appoint Yuan Ming, Zhen Nan King's son, as the Special Envoy to investigate in his place. Mr. Hua predicted Hua Rong would insist on accompanying Yuan Ming and implored Qin Shang Cheng and his brothers to escort them, confessing his deep concern for his impulsive daughter's safety.

Qin Shang Cheng solemnly vowed to protect Hua Rong, even if it meant being "crushed into pieces," assuring Mr. Hua he would take good care of her. As Hua Rong, Yuan Ming, and their retinue prepared to depart, Hua Rong promised her father she would listen to Yuan Ming. Before leaving, Sister Su, Hua Rong's cousin, thoughtfully presented Qin Shang Cheng with a handmade mink coat, cautioning him about the cold journey ahead.

Qin Shang Cheng gratefully accepted the gift, praising its warmth. Yuan Ming, observing their familiarity, expressed bewilderment at how close they had become. Hua Rong then discreetly warned Qin Shang Cheng not to act ostentatiously during their undercover investigation, reminding him that her father already suspected his intentions and that too much closeness could reveal their prior acquaintance.

Upon reaching an inn, Qin Shang Cheng's men assured everyone the area was secure, though they commented on Qin Shang Cheng's "brute force." Yuan Ming retired to his room and, after taking a sip of tea, suddenly collapsed, poisoned. Qin Shang Cheng and his men rushed to his side. Zhang Xian administered a temporary medicine to stabilize his heart, but a full detoxification by a doctor was required.

Perplexed by the poison's origin, as no one had entered or left the room, they swiftly decided to return to Su mansion. Back at Su mansion, the doctor confirmed Yuan Ming's stable condition, though he required rest. Yuan Ming, acknowledging the formidable local power, suggested writing to Zhen Nan King to request another envoy be dispatched. Hua Rong vehemently disagreed, arguing that such a delay would allow the culprits ample time to destroy evidence.

She then boldly proposed that she impersonate the Special Envoy to conduct the investigation herself. Her father, however, angrily refused, warning her of the immense danger and the severe crime of impersonation, expressing regret for having spoiled her so much. Later, Qin Shang Cheng found a troubled Hua Rong and offered a solution: he would impersonate the Special Envoy and investigate the case.

His condition was that Hua Rong must pose as his personal servant, diligently attending to his needs and obeying his every command throughout their journey. He also demanded a show of "sincerity" from her, prompting Hua Rong to reluctantly address him as "Mr. Qin" and formally request his help, reminding him that he must honor his word to assist her in achieving her goal.

Episode 11 Recap

Qin Shang Cheng proposed he could impersonate the envoy to investigate the case, but then he taunted Hua Rong, implying she didn't need his help. Seeing this, Hua Rong sincerely asked for his assistance. She then assured her father, Hua Mantian, that she would serve as Qin Shang Cheng's personal bodyguard throughout the journey, promising to transform him into Yuan Ming's likeness before they departed.

Hua Mantian expressed concerns, noting that Qin Shang Cheng, a man of martial arts, had vastly different manners from the refined Yuan Ming, making it difficult to maintain the pretense. Hua Rong reassured him that she had considered this and would teach Qin Shang Cheng to perfectly mimic Yuan Ming. Hua Rong began her rigorous training with Qin Shang Cheng, teaching him the ways of a scholar.

When he struggled to wear Yuan Ming's scholarly robes and asked for help, Hua Rong, blushing, leaned in to assist him, which Qin Shang Cheng promptly teased her about. Later, in a pavilion, Hua Rong instructed Qin Shang Cheng on proper dining etiquette, including using chopsticks, not spitting on the plate, and eating quietly without making noise. Annoyed, Qin Shang Cheng's mood brightened when Miss Su arrived with a soothing lotus seed and iris soup for him, gently comforting him.

Hua Rong sternly corrected Qin Shang Cheng's table manners, but he, remembering his new noble persona as the fourth son of Prince Zhennan, asserted his right to be served by his bodyguard. Just then, Hua Mantian walked by. To allay her father's worries about her journey, Hua Rong suppressed her irritation and patiently began serving Qin Shang Cheng, who relished the attention.

Over the following days, Hua Rong relentlessly drilled Qin Shang Cheng in proper posture and handwriting with a ruler, much to his chagrin. When they next met Hua Mantian, the father was impressed by Qin Shang Cheng's transformation and their seemingly seamless cooperation. Satisfied, Hua Mantian handed over the official seals and documents, entrusting them with the investigation, as he trusted Qin Shang Cheng despite his usual arbitrary nature, knowing he was not driven by greed.

Qin Shang Cheng vowed to protect Hua Rong at all costs. Qin Shang Cheng, Hua Rong, Qian Dayou, and their entourage officially set out. Qian Dayou and the others anticipated lavish hospitality befitting an envoy. However, upon arriving at the inn, they found it surprisingly modest and desolate. The local county magistrate, Xia, apologized for the meager conditions, explaining that no high-ranking official had ever visited before.

He assigned two flexible servants, A Da and A Er, to attend to the envoy. Later, Qin Shang Cheng went to the scene of the explosion. He questioned the locals, who all consistently claimed the incident was caused by an earthquake and subsequent wildfires, denying any smell of kerosene. Qin Shang Cheng found their identical testimonies suspicious, suggesting they were coached, as their consistent answers were unusual for such a sudden event.

He continued his investigation, with Hua Rong in tow. They then visited a merchant house where the shopkeeper warmly welcomed them, offering tea and pastries. Hua Rong subtly coughed to warn Qin Shang Cheng about potential poison, but he ignored her warning and partook of the refreshments. When the shopkeeper accidentally spilled tea on Qin Shang Cheng’s robes, he instructed Hua Rong to accompany him to the back to tidy up.

In the back room, they were surprised to find Miss Su, who revealed it was her family's store. She explained that Hua Mantian, concerned for Hua Rong's safety, had sent her there to provide assistance, and she offered her continued help during their stay. Back at the inn that evening, A Da and A Er were overly zealous in their service, constantly appearing wherever Qin Shang Cheng went, even to the latrine.

Annoyed, he tried to dismiss them but they insisted on their duty. Qin Shang Cheng then went to Hua Rong's room, revealing his discovery: they were being closely watched by spies. He offered to stay in her room to protect her, citing her "narrow vision" and "poor kung fu." Hua Rong, however, accused him of having improper intentions, leading to a heated argument and a physical scuffle. The commotion attracted A Da and A Er, who rushed in.

Thinking quickly, Qin Shang Cheng ordered Hua Rong, disguised as his attendant, to give him a foot massage, pretending to scold her for her clumsiness. Once the servants left, Hua Rong finally believed Qin Shang Cheng's warning. They discussed the case, realizing the county was a crucial oil production center, containing large quantities of oil deposits, which were important military resources.

The explosion, officially attributed to an earthquake, was suspicious given the villagers' rehearsed answers, indicating someone had deliberately arranged for them to say this. They deduced that if a significant oil deposit was involved, it would be a major military matter, explaining the attempts on the envoy’s life. They drank wine throughout the night, eventually falling asleep on the bed. The next morning, Hua Rong woke up to find Qin Shang Cheng sleeping beside her.

Memories of the previous night caused her to blush fiercely. Feeling awkward, she left the room and asked Xiao Hui to accompany her for a walk. During their stroll, Xiao Hui recognized Xiao Yue, a woman she knew from the music house, and attempted to greet her. However, Xiao Yue deliberately pretended not to know Xiao Hui. Hua Rong inferred that Xiao Yue’s denial was due to their being watched by others in the area.

Upon returning to the inn, Hua Rong went to Qin Shang Cheng’s room. He playfully teased her about her uninhibited behavior while drunk the previous night, making Hua Rong wish she could disappear. Hua Rong then shared her encounter with Xiao Yue, mentioning Xiao Yue’s close association with the Black Dragon Band during Xiao Hui’s time at the music house.

Qin Shang Cheng immediately connected the dots, noting that the Black Dragon Band's stronghold housed large oil reserves and that their appearance in this county so soon after an oil explosion was no mere coincidence; he suspected them of foul play. He suggested seeking assistance from Miss Su, but Hua Rong was hesitant, believing Miss Su's attentiveness was merely a ploy to compete for Qin Shang Cheng's attention.

Qin Shang Cheng, sensing her jealousy, teased her about it, which she vehemently denied. He insisted on them approaching Miss Su for help. That night, Miss Su summoned Hua Rong and Qin Shang Cheng. Yuan Ming had unexpectedly arrived, having heard that the investigation now involved dangerous jianghu gangs, and he demanded Hua Rong return home with him. Hua Rong refused to abandon the investigation.

Qin Shang Cheng supported her decision, assuring Yuan Ming that he had experience fighting the Black Dragon Band and found them to be nothing to fear. He promised to protect Hua Rong, and Yuan Ming reluctantly conceded. Yuan Ming then requested a private conversation with Hua Rong. He confessed his long-standing love for her, explaining that her current peril had compelled him to finally speak his heart.

He urged her to return home with him to marry and presented her with an ancestral jade bracelet, a family heirloom for his future daughter-in-law, as an engagement token. Hua Rong, however, immediately removed the bracelet and returned it, gently explaining that she had always seen him only as a dear brother and harbored no romantic feelings for him.

Episode 12 Recap

Hua Rong firmly rejected Yuan Ming, explaining that she had always seen him as an elder brother since childhood, harboring only admiration and respect, not love. She then returned the jade bracelet he had given her. Yuan Ming, realizing his affections were unrequited, acknowledged her sincerity. He urged her to remember that despite her feelings, she was still the closest person to him in the world.

He warned her never to hide danger from him or attempt risky feats on her own. Hua Rong assured him she understood, and he advised her to rest early. As Yuan Ming left, he passed Miss Su, who seemed hesitant to speak. That night, Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong sat on a haystack under the eaves, discussing the stalled investigation.

Qin Shang Cheng had ensured their privacy by having Zhang Xian and Xiao Hui practice sword fighting below, deterring anyone from approaching. Hua Rong expressed her frustration about the lack of clues and her concern about the dangers of the situation, feeling she had worried her family and involved him. Qin Shang Cheng teased her, claiming he enjoyed having beautiful women around during dangerous times.

Hua Rong called him out, saying she knew he was joking, but Qin Shang Cheng insisted that only those who dared not pursue their heart would joke about their life. He then steered the conversation back to the case, stating that the only breakthrough lay with Xiao Yue, despite her cautious nature. Hua Rong suggested Xiao Hui might be able to get through to her. Hua Rong and Xiao Hui brought Xiao Yue into a room.

Xiao Yue was reluctant to speak, denying any knowledge of "fuel things." Xiao Hui implored Xiao Yue to tell the truth, reminding her of their past at the music club where only Xiao Yue had been kind to her. She argued that Xiao Yue wouldn't want to be an accomplice to the Black Dragon Gang, and that confessing would help them destroy the gang and save other girls. Xiao Yue feared discovery and just wanted a normal life.

Hua Rong promised Xiao Yue a new identity and enough silver to start a new life if she revealed the truth, assuring her that the Black Dragon Gang would no longer bother her. Xiao Yue finally agreed, but only if they ensured her escape first. Hua Rong readily agreed to her terms. As Xiao Yue left the room, she was intercepted by A Da and A Er, who suspiciously questioned her presence at the Su family residence.

Xiao Yue hesitantly claimed Miss Su had called her there for work. Just as A Da pressed for more details, Miss Su arrived. Hua Rong, observing from inside, subtly signaled to Miss Su. Playing along, Miss Su feigned anger at Xiao Yue for her "poor embroidery work," fabricating a story about Xiao Yue damaging cloth and trying to leave without finishing her task.

She then dismissed A Da and A Er, asserting her authority and their irrelevance, effectively deflecting their suspicion and helping Xiao Yue escape their interrogation. After A Da and A Er departed, Hua Rong lavished Miss Su with praise, calling her "cousin" and apologizing for causing trouble. She explained the complexity of the local situation and her reliance on Miss Su, whose family was reputable and whose staff were discreet.

Miss Su chided Hua Rong for not informing her earlier, which could have prevented the chaos. Hua Rong explained she hadn't wanted to drag Miss Su into danger. Miss Su dismissed her concerns, emphasizing their family bond and her commitment to protect Hua Rong. Hua Rong then requested a new identity card and silver for Xiao Yue, which Miss Su agreed to provide, stating the ID card would be the trickier part.

Unbeknownst to them, Qin Shang Cheng was nearby, observing their conversation. Afterwards, Hua Rong mused to Qin Shang Cheng that he had been right about Miss Su's character, admitting she had previously misunderstood her. Qin Shang Cheng teased Hua Rong, accusing her of being jealous, which she vehemently denied as they playfully chased each other. The next day, Miss Su secretly met Hua Rong on the street and handed her the prepared token.

Hua Rong and Qin Shang Cheng arrived at the agreed meeting place but Xiao Yue was not there. They rushed to Xiao Yue's house, finding it empty but with signs of a struggle. Neighbors uniformly claimed Xiao Yue had left for her mother's house due to illness, a story Qin Shang Cheng immediately found suspicious due to its identical wording.

He pointed out a young man lingering outside Xiao Yue's house earlier who seemed to be directing the neighbors, confirming their suspicion of foul play. They apprehended the young man, who confessed that he had killed Xiao Yue under the orders of the district official because she had planned to escape. Overcome with guilt, Hua Rong grieved over Xiao Yue's body.

Upon closer inspection, she and Qin Shang Cheng noticed dirt on Xiao Yue's hands, suggesting she had scratched at the ground. They found a recently disturbed patch of earth nearby and, excavating it, Hua Rong uncovered a silver key. However, before they could investigate further, the county official arrived with his men.

He accused Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong of impersonating an envoy and slandering a government official, using the captured man as a false witness who fabricated a story about them killing Xiao Yue and trying to cover it up. Despite Hua Rong's protests, the county official ordered their arrest and imprisonment. In the jail, Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong were dismayed to find Xiao Hui, Qian Dayou, and Zhang Xian also imprisoned.

Hua Rong questioned what they should do, but Qin Shang Cheng calmly advised them to wait. He explained that since their cover was blown, fleeing would only heighten security and lead to the destruction of evidence. By remaining compliant, they would lull the county official into a false sense of security. Xiao Hui, Qian Dayou, and Zhang Xian expressed their trust in Qin Shang Cheng's ability to pick the locks.

To further relax the guards, the three played cards loudly in their cell, while Qin Shang Cheng entertained Hua Rong with humorous stories of his adventures at sea, eventually causing the jailers to doze off. Just as Qin Shang Cheng instructed Qian Dayou to pick the lock, Yuan Ming arrived with his own men. He sternly ordered the hesitant county official to release Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong. Back at the inn, Hua Rong thanked Yuan Ming.

Yuan Ming, still concerned for her safety, insisted she return home with him, stating his father would petition the King and other envoys to address the situation and potentially change the case's handling date. Hua Rong argued that she had found a crucial clue from Xiao Yue and was close to uncovering important evidence to expose the culprits. She felt honor-bound to see the investigation through, especially after Xiao Yue’s death.

Yuan Ming, however, believed the evidence wouldn't be enough against the deeply entrenched district official with his extensive network. He worried about his inability to protect her if she continued, stressing that her life was more important than the investigation. Hua Rong reminded him that her father had taught her to live nobly and fight for justice, not to hide while evil prevailed.

Despite her impassioned plea, Yuan Ming adamantly declared his decision that she would return to Su Zhai the next morning, leaving no room for discussion. Hua Rong looked to Qin Shang Cheng for support, but he remained silent. When she pressed him, he echoed Yuan Ming’s sentiment that she should not stay, urging her to rest and discuss it further in the morning.

Later that night, as Hua Rong slept, Qin Shang Cheng, disguised as Yun He Daxia, awakened her with the familiar sound of his bell. He playfully teased her that his bell had been stepped on by a "fool." Hua Rong, happy to see him, asked how he found her, to which he replied he always finds those he cares about. He praised her for her altruistic actions, saying he saw her in a new light.

He then informed her he had come to take her home because it was too dangerous for her to stay. Hua Rong challenged his chivalry, asking how it could be heroic to abandon her teammate, Qin Shang Cheng, especially since he was in danger because of her. She adamantly refused to leave him behind, declaring him "very important" to her. Yun He Daxia then subtly faltered in his persona, implying his feelings for her before regaining his composure.

Realizing his identity, Hua Rong angrily ripped off his mask, revealing Qin Shang Cheng. She accused him of playing pranks and pretending to be shameless. He then confessed that he was indeed Yun He Daxia. He revealed that his godfather, a powerful maritime figure, had been fatally attacked over a treasure map, leaving behind only half a map that, if discovered, would implicate his island family.

Despite his godfather’s advice against investigating, Qin Shang Cheng felt obligated to uncover the truth, so he created the identity of Yun He Daxia to secretly investigate. He explained he had kept his true identity hidden from her to protect her from the dangers and consequences, believing the less she knew, the safer she would be.

He then teased her about how smitten she was with Yun He Daxia, adding he didn't want his wife to not even know who she loved. Hua Rong, now understanding his true identity and motives, smiled, acknowledging she finally knew who he loved.

Episode 13 Recap

Qin Shang Cheng revealed his true identity as Warrior Yun He to Hua Rong. He told her that his primary reason for remaining was to investigate his adoptive father's death, which he believed Pei Yong and the Hei Long Bang were responsible for, though they were deeply hidden. Hua Rong, delighted by Qin Shang Cheng's confession, insisted that since they both had reasons to stay, they should unite their efforts to uncover the truth.

The following morning, Zhao Yuanming awoke with a severe headache to find his guards unconscious and a note from Hua Rong. She had left a message stating she was going to find evidence and would meet him afterward. Qin Shang Cheng, Hua Rong, and three others returned to the spot where Xiao Yue's body was discovered. There, they found a silver lock in the disturbed soil, which contained a map.

Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong decided to follow the map, while the rest of their group, Xiao Hui and Zhang Xian, returned. On their way back, Zhang Xian confessed his feelings for Xiao Hui, who reciprocated. Zhang Xian playfully called Xiao Hui a "clumsy fool," which she immediately denied, asserting her intelligence. Following the map, Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong arrived at a compound. Qin Shang Cheng quickly dealt with the guards and picked the lock.

Inside, they found a hidden room built into the mountain, filled with gold, silver, jewels, and a vast quantity of kerosene. As they prepared to leave and seek help from Hua Rong's father, Pei Yong and his men stormed in. Outnumbered, Qin Shang Cheng was injured, and Pei Yong specifically ordered his men to capture Hua Rong alive and kill Qin Shang Cheng.

Just as they were about to be captured, Hua Rong ignited a barrel of kerosene and threw it, creating chaos that allowed them to escape. They found refuge in a mountain cave. Despite his severe injury, Qin Shang Cheng was anxious about a pouch he carried. Hua Rong retrieved a paper from it, revealing it was the marriage contract from that day. Seeing Qin Shang Cheng so vulnerable, Hua Rong was deeply moved.

He confessed that he had long considered her his chosen one. Hua Rong, tearful, urged him to hold on, promising him another chance once they were safely out. She decided to go for help herself. Qin Shang Cheng warned her not to seek out Zhao Yuanming, explaining that their swift discovery by the Hei Long Bang suggested either Zhao Yuanming's subordinates were spies or Zhao Yuanming himself was part of the gang.

Hua Rong admitted her suspicions had grown, recalling his mysterious poisoning and his consistent obstruction of their investigation, and realized he was likely behind the Hei Long Bang. It all made chilling sense to her now. After careful thought, Hua Rong resolved to seek help from her cousin. Qin Shang Cheng gave Hua Rong his signal flare and kissed her forehead before she left.

Hua Rong stumbled into the Su family's merchant house and tearfully pleaded with her cousin for a horse cart to rescue Qin Shang Cheng. Her cousin agreed and accompanied her. In the carriage, her cousin offered Hua Rong some ginseng soup. After drinking it, Hua Rong felt dizzy and realized something was wrong. She quickly jumped out of the carriage but was caught by Zhao Yuanming. He demanded to know Qin Shang Cheng's whereabouts.

Feigning a leg injury, Hua Rong seized an opportunity to light and launch the signal flare. Enraged, Zhao Yuanming ordered his men to seal off the mountain and search for Qin Shang Cheng. Hua Rong was taken back to the Su mansion and woke to find her room locked. Zhao Yuanming entered and threw a bloody coat onto the floor, telling her it was useless to struggle as she wouldn't find Qin Shang Cheng.

Hua Rong, seeing the blood-soaked garment, collapsed, believing Qin Shang Cheng was dead. She accused Zhao Yuanming, a prince's son, of committing such heinous acts. Zhao Yuanming, a concubine's son, revealed his long-held resentment from being neglected in the palace and how Hua Rong choosing a pirate over him fueled his desire for power.

He explained that he built the Hei Long Bang to prove himself, acquiring wealth, weapons, and manpower, asserting his power by claiming to be the "god" in control of everyone's life. Hua Rong, however, noticed the marriage contract was missing from the bloody coat and repeatedly questioned Zhao Yuanming, convinced that Qin Shang Cheng was still alive. Later, Hua Rong's cousin came to her room, and Hua Rong demanded an explanation. Her cousin confessed her deep love for Zhao Yuanming.

She revealed that she knew of Zhao Yuanming's affections for Hua Rong, which led her to constantly compete for his attention. After Hua Rong rejected Zhao Yuanming, he deliberately proposed to her, explaining he intended to marry her once he achieved success and recognition, but couldn't wait any longer due to Hua Rong's growing closeness with Qin Shang Cheng.

Her cousin tried to make Hua Rong understand her actions, but Hua Rong furiously condemned Zhao Yuanming for his disregard for human life and his slaughter of innocents. She contrasted him with Qin Shang Cheng, a pirate who, despite his background, refused to harm the elderly, young, women, or children, asserting Qin Shang Cheng was the true man among them. Zhao Yuanming then entered, cutting short Hua Rong's accusations, and further confined her.

That night, a fire broke out at the Su mansion. Qin Shang Cheng, from the rooftop, threw a paper ball to Hua Rong, assuring her he was unharmed and to await rescue and renew their relationship without games. Hua Rong was overjoyed to learn he was alive. She then sought Zhao Yuanming's permission to stew soup for her recovering father, which he granted.

The next day at noon, while delivering the soup to her father, Hua Rong subtly informed him that Qin Shang Cheng had sent a message confirming he would soon come to rescue them. Returning to her room, Hua Rong discovered Qin Shang Cheng's paper note was missing. Zhao Yuanming entered, revealing he had the note. He explained that Yue Feng had betrayed them, confessing his enduring hatred for Qin Shang Cheng from the time he was bullied on the island.

Yue Feng had informed Zhao Yuanming of Qin Shang Cheng's rescue plans, hoping to assist Zhao Yuanming and prevent Hua Rong from further involvement with a man like Qin Shang Cheng. Armed with this information, Zhao Yuanming deployed heavy troops throughout the Su mansion, preparing a trap for Qin Shang Cheng. Meanwhile, a secret letter arrived from the Lord for Hua Rong's father, instructing him to write a report on his duties.

Episode 14 Recap

The Prince sent an order to Hua Rong's father, requiring him to submit a report. Zhao Yuanming sought to coerce Hua Rong's father into compliance by announcing his intention to marry Hua Rong in five days. Meanwhile, Miss Su awakened from her dream, realizing Zhao Yuanming had deceived her. Zhao Yuanming removed the bracelet from her wrist and confined her to her room.

Miss Su frantically called for servants, only to learn that the house no longer belonged to the Su family. She desperately cried out for Yuanming as she was taken away. The Su Residence was adorned with festive decorations. Hua Rong was compelled to wear a phoenix coronet and robes, and Zhao Yuanming placed an ancestral bracelet, which he claimed was more important than a human life, onto her wrist.

He then produced a letter from his father, the Prince, granting permission for their marriage, revealing his long-held scheme to implicate Hua Rong's entire family. Hua Rong, furious, vehemently resisted. Zhao Yuanming informed her that news of their marriage had already been widely disseminated, assuring her that Qin Shang Cheng would inevitably arrive that night for what would be their "last time" together. As night fell, the Su Residence was heavily guarded.

To Zhao Yuanming's surprise, Qin Shang Cheng arrived alone. As Qin Shang Cheng walked into the main hall, Hua Rong's father expressed concern. Suddenly, the main doors were flung open, and a coffin flew into the room. Qian Dayou and his men burst in.

The coffin contained the ledgers of the Dark Dragon Gang, and Qian Dayou began to read aloud details of their illicit activities, including the export of girls, the sale of kerosene from the weapon warehouse, bribes, and casino profits. Pei Yong ordered his men to shoot, but their actions were met with laughter. Zhao Yuanming then instructed Pei Yong to fire a signal flare, but Qin Shang Cheng calmly stated that all the guards outside were already dead.

Yue Feng cut the ropes binding Hua Rong's father, revealing his true loyalty. He had never betrayed his father; Hua Rong's apparent "betrayal" was a strategic ploy to facilitate Qin Shang Cheng's rescue. Yue Feng then explained that the pond in the residence was connected to the outside river, providing a secret infiltration route, which allowed Qian Dayou and his men to successfully infiltrate the residence. Zhao Yuanming refused to disclose Hua Rong's whereabouts.

Qin Shang Cheng declared they would settle their scores according to pirate rules, and a fierce battle ensued. During the chaos, Zhao Yuanming fled to the storage room where Hua Rong was held captive. Inside, Hua Rong was attempting to burn through her restraints with a candle. Just as the ropes were about to break, Zhao Yuanming entered. Hua Rong seized the opportunity, striking him with a candelabra and making her escape.

While fleeing, Hua Rong encountered her disoriented cousin, Miss Su. She urged Miss Su to find Qin Shang Cheng if any pirate entered the area and gave her an amulet for defense, promising to return for her after finding a way out. Zhao Yuanming, his face scalded by the candelabra, intercepted Hua Rong. He insisted she accompany him, but Hua Rong adamantly refused.

She reminded him that if he had escaped alone, he might have gotten away with his crimes, but taking her would ensure the wrath of her father and Qin Shang Cheng. A struggle ensued, and Hua Rong, despite her fierce resistance, was no match for Zhao Yuanming. Meanwhile, Yue Feng led Qin Shang Cheng to the bridal chamber, only to find a decoy bride who ambushed Qin Shang Cheng, severely wounding Yue Feng.

Despite his injury, Yue Feng urged Qin Shang Cheng to find his sister. As Zhao Yuanming continued to force Hua Rong, Miss Su appeared, holding a sword and in a delirious state, pointing it at Hua Rong. Zhao Yuanming immediately shielded Hua Rong. Miss Su then offered Zhao Yuanming knowledge of the Su family's best-kept secret route, promising him safe escape, provided he killed Hua Rong.

Zhao Yuanming attempted to appease her, explaining that Hua Rong was his "amulet" and could not die yet, but promised to hand her over to Miss Su once they had escaped safely. Miss Su, recalling his past deceptions, demanded a hug as proof of his sincerity. Zhao Yuanming, desperate to escape, embraced her. Seizing the moment, Miss Su, driven by a complex mix of love and hatred, stabbed Zhao Yuanming from behind. She then committed suicide.

Zhao Yuanming, in his dying moments, lamented about love being a matter of the crazy deceiving the fool, with both sides willing. Hua Rong, witnessing his demise, reflected that he even mistreated his mother's relic. Hua Rong then threw wine on Zhao Yuanming, creating a barrier of fire between them. Moments later, the Prince of Zhen Nan's anti-bandit reinforcements arrived, quickly apprehending the members of the Dark Dragon Gang. Qin Shang Cheng found Hua Rong and captured Zhao Yuanming.

Amidst the chaos of the arrests, Pei Yong was seen disguised among the officers, a detail Hua Rong and Qin Shang Cheng noticed but chose not to reveal. Later, the Prince of Zhen Nan rewarded Qin Shang Cheng, offering him the title of general. Qin Shang Cheng declined the title, instead requesting a clearance paper to continue his maritime explorations and engage in foreign trade.

He expressed his desire to seek out the numerous novelties, treasures, dangers, and challenges along the coastal regions. The Prince agreed, but under one condition: Hua Rong would be appointed as an ambassador to accompany him on his adventures. Hua Rong's father entrusted his stubborn daughter to Qin Shang Cheng's care, and Qin Shang Cheng vowed to protect her perfectly, even at the risk of his own life.

Hua Rong clarified to Qin Shang Cheng that her journey with him was strictly for business and not to be taken lightly. Qin Shang Cheng also informed Hua Rong that Zhao Yuanming was not sentenced to death by the Prince, but merely placed under house arrest and ordered to self-criticize, as he was still the Prince's own flesh and blood. They concluded that if Zhao Yuanming caused trouble again, they could deal with him at any time.

Hua Rong then requested they sail to Wan Jiang. With their new mission, Qin Shang Cheng issued the order to set sail. As their ship departed, Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong shared a sweet kiss on the bow, embracing their future together. Meanwhile, Pei Yong, having escaped, was intercepted by Yun He Daxia.

Before he died, Pei Yong revealed that Zhao Yuanming was not the true leader of the Dark Dragon Gang, and that the real leader, who possessed the other half of the treasure map, was located in Wan Jiang.

Episode 15 Recap

On their journey to Wanjiang, Qin Shang Cheng arranged for the best painter from Tianchu to create engagement paintings, aiming to make up for his and Hua Rong's previous wedding, which she had not entered willingly. He told Hua Rong that engagement painting was a popular trend. Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian initially posed intimately for the painter, but Hua Rong found their poses "vulgar."

Qin Shang Cheng, however, allowed Hua Rong to pose as she wished, and the painter skillfully captured their moments. Zhang Xian complimented Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong, calling them a "perfect couple" due to Hua Rong's natural beauty. Qin Shang Cheng had a special proposal planned for Hua Rong that night. The ship was beautifully lit for a candlelight dinner on deck.

He presented five dishes, each with an elaborate name symbolizing love and union, such as "perfect conjugal bliss" and "faithful love." Hua Rong, somewhat confused by the gaudy names, pressed him to reveal his true intention. Qin Shang Cheng explained that since their first wedding wasn't of her free will, he wanted to give her an unforgettable proposal, ensuring she willingly became his bride this time. He then presented her with a unique soft sword, which he named "Everlasting Love."

Hua Rong initially questioned why it was just a hilt, but after pressing a sapphire on it as Qin Shang Cheng instructed, a sharp blade emerged. She admired its delicate yet sharp design and ease of carry, understanding it was meant for her self-protection. Next, Qin Shang Cheng presented a gold lock, which he had made himself. He stated it would "firmly lock" her and ensure she could "only marry me this life."

Fireworks then erupted over a nearby island, which Qin Shang Cheng announced he had named "Hua Rong Island" after her, declaring it would belong only to the two of them, and their future children. Their sweet moment was interrupted by news of a nearby official ship on fire. Initially, Qin Shang Cheng was hesitant to leave the proposal, but Hua Rong urged him to help, quickly ordering Qian Dayou to get their ship alongside.

On board the burning ship, Hua Rong noticed the suspicious lack of crew on deck and a strange smell. Qin Shang Cheng realized the ship, despite being from Wanjiang, was empty except for a pile of wood ashes, indicating they had been lured into a trap. He quickly deduced that the seemingly fallen men were faking death. Suddenly, the Xiu Luo pirate gang, whose leader Qin Shang Cheng had killed a year prior, emerged, demanding "blood will have blood."

As Qin Shang Cheng fought them, Hua Rong, Qian Dayou, and their men arrived, quickly dispatching the pirates. However, the pirate leader, feigning surrender, launched a hidden weapon at Qin Shang Cheng. Hua Rong immediately shielded him, taking the blow. Qin Shang Cheng was distraught, calling out her name, believing she was gravely injured. To his immense relief, Hua Rong opened her eyes, playfully teasing him for crying.

She then revealed the little gold lock he had given her had blocked the weapon, saving her life. Qin Shang Cheng, shaken by the near-death experience, made Hua Rong promise not to take such risks again, expressing his unbearable fear of losing her. Hua Rong, in turn, promised to live a long life if he did too, so they could "grow old together" and "be together forever." Later, back in their room, Qin Shang Cheng embraced Hua Rong.

He then spoke to his adoptive father, explaining his plan to go to Wanjiang alone to avenge him. He acknowledged the extreme danger of the journey, emphasizing he couldn't bear to let Hua Rong face such risks, and sought his adoptive father's blessing to keep Hua Rong safe. The next morning, Hua Rong awoke to find a letter from Qin Shang Cheng, detailing his departure for Wanjiang without her.

He explained that the trip was too dangerous and he couldn't risk losing her. Enraged, Hua Rong confronted Qian Dayou, demanding he turn the ship around. Despite Qian Dayou's initial reluctance, fearing Qin Shang Cheng's wrath, Hua Rong threatened to swim to Wanjiang herself, forcing him to comply. She reiterated that she would not be left behind. Upon arriving in Wanjiang, Hua Rong and Qian Dayou noticed many shops named "Hero Yunhe."

While walking, a young woman in yellow, Lu Wanwan, frantically ran into Hua Rong. When soldiers appeared chasing Lu Wanwan, Hua Rong intervened, declaring she couldn't stand by while men bullied a girl. They quickly escaped. Back at the inn, Lu Wanwan introduced herself as the daughter of the Wanshang Chamber of Commerce chairman. She explained she had fled her home five days earlier to avoid her father's plan to choose a husband for her through the upcoming Wanshang meeting.

Hua Rong expressed admiration for Lu Wanwan's spirit and decision to control her own destiny. Hua Rong then pressed Qian Dayou about Qin Shang Cheng's whereabouts and plans, but he claimed ignorance, stating Qin Shang Cheng's mission was highly secretive. Learning about the Wanshang meeting, Hua Rong decided to attend, suggesting to Lu Wanwan that she could discreetly observe the potential suitors her father might choose.

To ensure Lu Wanwan wouldn't be recognized, Qian Dayou applied intricate "Haina Hand Drawing" to her face, a popular style from the Western Region. The next day, disguised as men, Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan arrived at the Wanshang Meeting. Qian Dayou spotted Qin Shang Cheng immediately and tried to obstruct Hua Rong's view, but she still saw him.

Qin Shang Cheng, under the guise of Situ Cheng, a handsome spice merchant from Yexiang Country, was engaged in a business discussion with President Lu's second concubine, Madam Lan. Madam Lan was clearly charmed by "Situ Cheng." Hua Rong, witnessing their interaction from a distance, grew intensely jealous. Madam Lan suggested they move to a private room to sample "Fuyuxian" spice. Fuming, Hua Rong followed them, determined to expose Qin Shang Cheng's perceived flirtation.

Hua Rong scaled the building and peeked through the window into the private room. Unable to clearly hear their conversation, she mistakenly believed Qin Shang Cheng was administering "knockout drops" to Madam Lan. In reality, Qin Shang Cheng was using a "truth incense" on Madam Lan, who, once under its influence, confirmed she knew nothing about the "Black Dragon gang" or the whereabouts of any "white jade."

As Madam Lan drifted off to sleep, Qin Shang Cheng carried her to the bed. A furious Hua Rong leapt into the room. Qin Shang Cheng was surprised to see her. Their playful, bickering exchange drew the attention of servants outside. Thinking quickly, Hua Rong mimicked Madam Lan's voice, assuring the servants everything was fine and praising the "amazing" Fuyuxian scent. Returning to the main hall, Qian Dayou discreetly informed Qin Shang Cheng of Lu Wanwan's true identity.

President Lu then addressed the assembly, announcing that this year's meeting would also include a husband recruitment segment for his daughter, Lu Wanwan. The victor would not only marry her but also receive half of an invaluable white jade, which he confirmed contained a treasure map from a previous dynasty, offering a fifty percent chance of finding the hidden treasure. Qin Shang Cheng later discussed his plan with Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou.

Zhang Xian revealed that President Lu was being blackmailed by a mysterious individual who had kidnapped Lu Wanwan and forced him to use the white jade as bait to draw out "Hero Yunhe." Qin Shang Cheng confirmed he possessed the other half of the white jade and decided to maintain his "Situ Cheng" identity to "draw a snake out of its hole." He reaffirmed his intention to send Hua Rong back to Tianchu, prioritizing her safety over all other concerns.

Zhang Xian agreed, suggesting that Qin Shang Cheng winning the contest and obtaining the white jade would naturally reveal the Black Dragon sect leader. That night, Qin Shang Cheng attempted to tranquilize Hua Rong in her room, intending to send her back to Tianchu. He spoke his goodbyes aloud, believing her to be asleep. However, Hua Rong suddenly sat up, revealing she had anticipated his move and taken an antidote beforehand.

She insisted on staying by his side, arguing that the dangers in Wanjiang were even greater than those in Tianchu, and she could help him face the Black Dragon leader, who was more formidable than Zhao Yuanming. Qin Shang Cheng, while initially wanting her to return to Tianchu, proposed a "gentleman's agreement": they would both compete in the husband recruitment contest. If he won and obtained the white jade, she would promise to accompany him everywhere.

If she won, she would return to Tianchu. Hua Rong, confident in her abilities, agreed, stating she could not be underestimated and would win with her own strength. She even jokingly said that if she won, she would send the white jade to him as a dowry. Qin Shang Cheng, amused by her stubborn yet charming nature, sealed their pact with a handshake after she refused a kiss, emphasizing her seriousness.

The next day, Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan, still disguised as men, successfully entered the contest hall. Lu Wanwan proudly revealed she had obtained their entry tickets from the Jin Palace by purchasing and forging copies. Hua Rong spotted Qin Shang Cheng, feeling a surge of determination. However, their forged tickets were quickly exposed by the guards, who knew genuine tickets were made of special paper that couldn't be burned. As the guards prepared to arrest them for impersonating people from the Jin Palace, Jin Yiwen, passing by, intervened, declaring, "She's mine. Who dares to touch her?"

Episode 16 Recap

Jin Yiwen arrived with Lai Sheng to intervene, protecting Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan from soldiers who accused them of forging tickets for Prince Jin's Mansion. Qin Shang Cheng, who had just rushed to save Hua Rong, watched the scene unfold. Jin Yiwen asserted that Hua Rong was from his mansion and took them away, much to Qin Shang Cheng's attendant Qian Dayou's frustration.

Later, back in the selection hall, Qin Shang Cheng learned that Jin Yiwen was the Second Lord of Prince Jin's Mansion, a powerful figure highly favored by Prince Jin, despite Qian Dayou's dismissive remarks. Qin Shang Cheng then observed Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan, now in female attire, joining Jin Yiwen at a table. Jin Yiwen attentively offered Hua Rong various delicacies, and she reciprocated, serving him food and pouring him wine.

This display clearly irritated Qin Shang Cheng, who struggled to conceal his jealousy. The Wanshang Conference then officially began with an announcement of the rules. The competition would consist of three parts: a literary challenge, a martial arts contest, and a mysterious fence-off. The champion would receive a white jade and marry Lu Wanwan. Hua Rong was particularly interested in the white jade, aware of its connection to a treasure map.

She privately asked Jin Yiwen if he was participating to marry the "first beauty of Wan Jiang." Jin Yiwen denied it, explaining his participation was due to his sick brother and his father's request. He then revealed that Lu Wanwan, sitting next to them, was the true "first beauty of Wan Jiang," not the one presented earlier.

Jin Yiwen confessed his true motive was to win the white jade, which he believed contained half of a treasure map, intending to distribute any discovered riches to the people. Hua Rong admired his kindness, and they toasted. The nominees were then announced, including Jin Yiwen and Situ Cheng (Qin Shang Cheng's disguise). Later, Jin Yiwen invited Qin Shang Cheng for a private tea, expressing gratitude for a precious pill Qin Shang Cheng had sent that saved his mother's life.

Qin Shang Cheng dismissed the thanks, instead urging Jin Yiwen not to involve Hua Rong in the competition. Jin Yiwen, however, pressed Qin Shang Cheng about his true reasons for participating in the son-in-law selection. Qin Shang Cheng retorted it was none of his business. Jin Yiwen promised not to reveal Qin Shang Cheng's identity but warned him that if he ever harmed or abandoned Hua Rong, Jin Yiwen would relentlessly pursue her.

Qin Shang Cheng confidently dismissed the threat, asserting he would defeat Jin Yiwen again. Lu Wanwan, meanwhile, convinced Hua Rong to move into Prince Jin's Mansion with her, suggesting it would help them strategize and evade Qin Shang Cheng. Jin Yiwen's attendant, Lai Sheng, confirmed that Jin Yiwen believed the mansion would be safer for "Miss Lian" (Lu Wanwan's alias). Hua Rong agreed to the move, and Qin Shang Cheng was soon informed of their departure.

Separately, a mysterious figure met with President Lu, who handed over the nominee list. President Lu, concerned about his daughter Lu Wanwan, was cooperating under the false belief that she had been kidnapped, hoping to lure out Hero Yunhe. The mysterious figure, however, was aware of Hero Yunhe's disguised identity. Jin Yiwen showed Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan to a courtyard he had prepared for them, revealing he had moved to a smaller one himself.

Hua Rong felt apologetic and offered to switch, but Jin Yiwen insisted they stay, making them feel at home. He then made a grand declaration, promising to do everything in his power to help Hua Rong achieve her dreams, whether winning the competition or adventuring as "Heroine Huahua." Hua Rong, uncomfortable with his fervent display, quickly excused herself. While exploring the mansion, Lu Wanwan playfully teased Hua Rong about potentially becoming the Prince's consort.

Hua Rong clarified she had no such interest, leading Lu Wanwan to implicitly reveal her own intentions towards Jin Yiwen. Soon after, Qin Shang Cheng arrived at a pavilion in the mansion. When Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan entered, Hua Rong expressed annoyance at Qin Shang Cheng having found her. Qin Shang Cheng playfully reasserted his claim over her. Just then, Jin Yiwen arrived, displeased, and confronted Qin Shang Cheng, accusing him of harassment.

Qin Shang Cheng maintained his disguise as Situ Cheng, the perfume supplier, but Qian Dayou inadvertently revealed that Qin Shang Cheng was simply "chatting with his wife," much to Jin Yiwen's chagrin. The First Lord, Jin Yiwen's elder brother, then entered, acknowledging Qin Shang Cheng by his Situ Cheng persona. At dinner, the First Lord noticed the familiarity between Qin Shang Cheng and Jin Yiwen.

Qin Shang Cheng skillfully fabricated a story about encountering Jin Yiwen while seeking herbs and how Jin Yiwen helped him salvage "goods" from the water. Hua Rong bristled at being referred to as "goods." The First Lord then presented Qin Shang Cheng with a sachet containing a costly Lingxiang herb, explaining that his wife's insomnia had worsened despite using it. He asked Qin Shang Cheng, as a perfume expert, to examine it.

Hua Rong, fearing Qin Shang Cheng's ignorance of perfumes would expose him, feigned an allergy to create a diversion. However, Qin Shang Cheng confidently examined the sachet, deduced that the wife was using too much, and explained that an excessive amount would stimulate rather than calm her. The First Lord was satisfied and ordered the removal of all perfumes from his wife's room. In the garden, Qin Shang Cheng approached Hua Rong, thanking her for her earlier intervention.

She denied being worried about him, prompting him to point out her fake allergy. Qin Shang Cheng then admitted his jealousy about her living with Jin Yiwen and demanded she return home. When she refused, he picked her up, causing her to protest loudly about being treated as "goods." He then kissed her. As Jin Yiwen appeared, a flustered Hua Rong ran off.

Jin Yiwen warned Qin Shang Cheng that such actions would only push Hua Rong away, but Qin Shang Cheng dismissed him, confident in his ability to win her over. Later, Lu Wanwan confronted Hua Rong, urging her to remain focused on the competition and not be swayed by Qin Shang Cheng, playfully asking about the kiss and then encouraging Hua Rong to show her strength against him.

In the competition's first round, a riddle-solving challenge, Hua Rong and her team quickly deduced the two locations: Bailu Academy and Xuanhe Art Academy, where the Painting of Goddess of the Luo River was located. Realizing Qin Shang Cheng likely had a head start, Hua Rong revised their plan: Jin Yiwen and Lu Wanwan would go to Bailu Academy, while Hua Rong would go alone to Xuanhe Art Academy, hoping to retrieve the painting herself.

Hua Rong arrived at Xuanhe Art Academy and confirmed she was the first to reach the Rainbow Pavilion. As she prepared to search for the painting among the many collections, Qin Shang Cheng appeared, already holding the Painting of Goddess of the Luo River, having entered through a window. Hua Rong was astonished by his quick wit. He teased her about her inability to find it and confidently asserted his lead in the competition.

Hua Rong tracked Qin Shang Cheng to his room, where she found him bathing. She searched his clothes for the painting, but it wasn't there. Qin Shang Cheng, aware of her presence, offered her the painting if she bathed him well. Hua Rong reluctantly agreed, complaining as she did so. Qin Shang Cheng then changed the terms, offering the painting only if she moved out of Prince Jin's Mansion.

Hua Rong scoffed at his demand, then quickly snatched what she believed was the painting from a table and fled. In her own room, she discovered she had been tricked; it was not the Goddess of the Luo River but a portrait of herself and Qin Shang Cheng, which she found herself admiring. Meanwhile, Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou returned to Qin Shang Cheng, admitting Jin Yiwen had already secured the item from Bailu Academy.

After a brief argument over who was to blame, Qian Dayou suggested Zhang Xian attempt to steal the item from Jin Yiwen that night. In a separate discussion, Jin Yiwen anticipated Qin Shang Cheng's theft attempt and resolved not only to secure his victory but also to publicly humiliate Qin Shang Cheng. Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan suggested bribing Qin Shang Cheng, but Hua Rong refused, stating it was not her way to win.

Jin Yiwen then sent a battle post to Qin Shang Cheng, challenging him to a duel to be settled "like men" the following afternoon in a grove outside Anyuan Gate. The next day, at the grove, Qin Shang Cheng and Jin Yiwen faced each other. Hua Rong and Lu Wanwan arrived, fearing a fight. To their surprise, Jin Yiwen's and Qin Shang Cheng's attendants settled the preliminary terms with a game of rock-paper-scissors, which Jin Yiwen's side lost.

Qian Dayou then proposed a new form of competition: a contest to see who knew Hua Rong best. As referee, Qian Dayou announced nine questions, with Hua Rong holding the answers, and the first to get five correct answers would win, with the loser drinking a penalty. For the first question, "What is the brand of rouge Ms. Rong likes most?" , both Qin Shang Cheng and Jin Yiwen answered correctly.

Qin Shang Cheng had once bought all available rouges to personally test them for Hua Rong, while Jin Yiwen's family owned the shop where Hua Rong bought her favorite brand, Ning Mi Fang. Qin Shang Cheng was surprised by Jin Yiwen's intimate knowledge. For the ninth question, "What is the thing that Ms. Rong mostly fears?" , Qin Shang Cheng confidently answered "spiders." However, Hua Rong's correct answer was "fierce dogs."

Qin Shang Cheng was bewildered, unaware that Hua Rong had intentionally feigned a fear of spiders in the past to protect his image as the "king of pirates," as he was secretly afraid of them himself. After losing the round, Qin Shang Cheng drank the penalty wine, acknowledging Hua Rong's thoughtful deception, while the others present discreetly chuckled.

Episode 17 Recap

Qin Shang Cheng's surprising fear of spiders was revealed during the competition. Qin Shang Cheng knew that Hua Rong had intentionally pretended to be terrified of spiders to give him an easy way out, which he appreciated, readily drinking the given wine. Jin Yiwen observed this interaction and realized Hua Rong harbored feelings for Qin Shang Cheng. The competition between Qin Shang Cheng and Jin Yiwen continued with the second question: Hua Rong's most unforgettable moment.

Qin Shang Cheng confidently wrote "the proposal on deck," while Jin Yiwen left his answer blank. Qin Shang Cheng, realizing Hua Rong's subtle favoritism through the chosen questions, felt a quiet delight. As the competition progressed, both men had their moments, but Qin Shang Cheng ultimately led Jin Yiwen five to three, with Jin Yiwen gracefully accepting his defeat. For the final question, Hua Rong asked about her biggest dream, intending to test Qin Shang Cheng.

However, he mistakenly believed her dream was simply to marry him, causing her visible disappointment. Jin Yiwen then gently explained to everyone that Hua Rong's greatest aspiration was to become a heroic female warrior who champions justice. Hua Rong was annoyed by Qin Shang Cheng's self-centeredness, but he remained oblivious. She stood up and left. Later, in his room, Qin Shang Cheng was puzzled by Hua Rong's reaction.

Zhang Xian brought him the answer to the last question, revealing that Jin Yiwen had, in fact, given the correct answer. Meanwhile, Hua Rong and Wan Wan were having hotpot in their room. Hua Rong confided in Wan Wan, lamenting Qin Shang Cheng's stubbornness and lack of understanding, especially since even Jin Yiwen seemed to know what she truly desired.

Elsewhere, Three Arrows reported to a mysterious individual that "Situ Cheng" (Qin Shang Cheng's alias) had won the literary portion of the contest. The mysterious person instructed Three Arrows to continue monitoring Situ Cheng closely. Feeling restless, Hua Rong wandered the streets and encountered Qin Shang Cheng. He took her hand and apologized for overlooking her dream, promising his full support for her aspirations to become a heroine.

However, he quickly pivoted back to asking her to marry him, highlighting his unwavering love. Hua Rong, frustrated by his inability to grasp her deeper feelings and his focus solely on their relationship rather than her personal ambitions, found their conversation fruitless. They parted ways, both left with a sense of melancholy that kept them awake that night.

The next day, Hua Rong arrived at the match site, intending to register for the next round of the suitor selection competition in place of the indisposed Jin Yiwen. The second round was an archery contest. Jin Yiwen attempted to find archery masters to train Hua Rong, but all of them suddenly became unavailable. Hua Rong immediately suspected Qin Shang Cheng's involvement.

Back with his men, Qin Shang Cheng's subordinate, Qian Dayou, smugly confirmed that he had indeed bribed all the archery masters in the city to prevent them from teaching Hua Rong, ensuring she wouldn't win. Wan Wan soon approached Qin Shang Cheng, angrily scolding him for his cluelessness about Hua Rong's true desires.

She explained that in a relationship, the saddest thing is when one person gives "a ton of pears" when the other simply wants "an apple," signifying a profound lack of understanding. Hua Rong practiced archery alone, accidentally injuring her hand. Qin Shang Cheng, seeing her distress, rushed out. When she rebuffed him, he reappeared disguised as Yunhe, the hero she admired, and tenderly bandaged her wound. This moment was secretly witnessed by Three Arrows.

Qin Shang Cheng then offered to be her archery master, a proposal Hua Rong reluctantly accepted after some initial resistance. As he patiently guided her hand, teaching her the proper archery techniques, Hua Rong couldn't help but blush, feeling a blossoming happiness. With less than seven days until the competition, Hua Rong diligently continued her practice. Qin Shang Cheng, worried she was overexerting herself, suggested she rest until the next day and even offered to let her win the match.

This offer, however, only angered Hua Rong further, as she felt it disrespected her effort and her desire to win on her own merit. She firmly told him she intended to win through her own abilities. Qin Shang Cheng was left distraught, unable to comprehend Hua Rong's mindset. Qian Dayou suggested he visit a pleasure house, reasoning that a place with many women might offer insights into a woman's heart.

That night, Qin Shang Cheng went to a pleasure house and sought advice from the courtesans. Among them, a woman named Ning Xiang explained her dream was to improve her chess skills and find a true kindred spirit. She stressed that if someone were to "buy her freedom" merely to be with her, it wouldn't be genuine love and would lack mutual respect.

It was through Ning Xiang's words that Qin Shang Cheng finally grasped the true source of Hua Rong's anger: his failure to understand and respect her personal dreams and aspirations. Meanwhile, Jin Yiwen remained inwardly troubled by the situation, and Laisheng offered him a new suggestion. On Qin Shang Cheng's side, he was now diligently crafting a custom bow for Hua Rong.

The next day at the archery range, Jin Yiwen presented Hua Rong with a selection of bows, making her happy. Qin Shang Cheng arrived, narrowly avoiding an arrow Hua Rong fired. He took the bow from her, giving her the custom-made "Mu Rong" bow he had crafted, which Hua Rong praised for its ease of use. Qin Shang Cheng then knelt and presented her with a jade thumb ring, explaining it would protect her hand.

He continued to teach her the correct archery form, delighting Hua Rong, who felt he was finally beginning to understand her. Both Jin Yiwen and Qin Shang Cheng subtly intensified their efforts to win Hua Rong's favor.

Episode 18 Recap

The next day, Qin Shang Cheng was absent from the archery grounds. Hua Rong, distracted during her practice, remarked that while Qin Shang Cheng's performance had improved the day before, he had now stood her up. Her attendant suggested they continue practicing, and Hua Rong agreed. Meanwhile, Qin Shang Cheng was in the woods, where he successfully shot two wild geese. Upon returning to the mansion, Qin Shang Cheng was dismayed to find his carefully prepared wild geese missing.

He quickly located Hua Rong and Jin Yiwen, who were seated at a table, enjoying roasted meat. Qin Shang Cheng mistakenly assumed they were feasting on his geese. Jin Yiwen even thanked him for catching geese for Hua Rong's nourishment. Qin Shang Cheng, realizing they were being cunning, exposed that the meat was actually roasted pheasant, and the wild geese he had caught had already been released by Hua Rong.

He stated that he knew Hua Rong was kind-hearted and naturally disliked killing. Qin Shang Cheng then clarified his presence, stating he was there for Hua Rong. He used the wild geese as a metaphor for unwavering loyalty in love, likening them to a pair of geese separated by distance, whose wings had aged. Jin Yiwen suggested he was reciting a poem to Hua Rong, but Qin Shang Cheng dismissed it as cliché.

He proceeded to tell a story about a male goose dying to protect its mate, and the female later succumbing to sorrow, lamenting that male geese often protect without truly understanding their partners' feelings. He concluded that what female geese truly need is to overcome difficulties and mature together, living and dying side by side. Qin Shang Cheng told Hua Rong that all he wished to convey was encapsulated in this story.

He then asked her to move back to the tavern from Jin Mansion if she could forgive him. Moved by his words, Hua Rong agreed, stating she would return to the tavern and allow him to observe her slowly and carefully. That night, Hua Rong bade farewell to Jin Yiwen, expressing regret that her presence had inadvertently worsened his health due to their archery practice.

Jin Yiwen, though reluctant, understood he could not persuade her to stay and offered to have her luggage sent to the tavern. His attendant, Lai Sheng, informed him that Wan Wan was also moving back to the tavern. Lai Sheng then advised Jin Yiwen to seek advice from Wan Wan, reasoning that "only women know women well" and she might offer insights into pursuing Hua Rong. Jin Yiwen later visited the tavern, looking for Hua Rong.

Finding her room empty, he pushed the door open and discovered a collaborative painting by Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong. Just then, Wan Wan entered. Jin Yiwen inquired about her thoughts on Hua Rong, and Wan Wan noted that Hua Rong's decision to move back to the tavern clearly indicated her feelings.

When Wan Wan asked if Jin Yiwen truly liked Hua Rong, she then urged him to openly express his feelings to Hua Rong, advising him not to worry about the outcome, but to confess so he wouldn't regret it. Jin Yiwen agreed, realizing he needed to take this step. The next day, Jin Yiwen invited Hua Rong to his art exhibition. Each painting on display depicted significant moments from their acquaintance, a testament to what he considered destiny.

Qin Shang Cheng's subordinate, Qian Dayou, informed him of Hua Rong's attendance, but Qin Shang Cheng, confident in Hua Rong's loyalty, stated she would not fall for Jin Yiwen's ploys and that he completely trusted her. During the exhibition, Jin Yiwen used a poem hidden within one painting to express his deep affection for Hua Rong, which Qin Shang Cheng's subordinates deciphered as "Wait for me to say I love you in person."

Qin Shang Cheng's subordinates debated whether to intervene, but ultimately decided against it, respecting Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong's agreement to trust each other. Hua Rong, understanding Jin Yiwen's feelings, gently conveyed that while she appreciated his sentiments, her heart belonged to Qin Shang Cheng. She candidly described Qin Shang Cheng as spoiled, domineering, and somewhat chauvinistic, admitting he didn't always understand her desires, yet she couldn't help but love him.

Jin Yiwen accepted her confession, finding peace in having expressed his true feelings, and they affirmed their continued friendship. Qin Shang Cheng, despite having no artistic background, personally drew a portrait of Hua Rong, which turned out remarkably unattractive. His subordinate, trying to flatter him, praised it as lifelike and compared Hua Rong to a descending fairy. Hua Rong, however, jokingly pointed out its ugliness and teased Qin Shang Cheng for harboring "wicked ideas" despite his poor artistic skill.

She then challenged him to practice archery together, demanding he declare who he truly loved. Qin Shang Cheng avoided answering, saying that paintings could never truly capture her beauty. Meanwhile, Three Arrows reported to his Grand Master, the Heilong Secret Society leader, that he had narrowly avoided capture by Jin Yiwen while searching Hua Rong's room.

The Grand Master, deeming him useless but offering a chance for redemption, instructed Three Arrows to "throw a stone to clear the road" at the upcoming competition, intending to expose a secret related to Yunhe. The next day, the son-in-law contest commenced with an archery competition comprising three rounds.

The first round involved shooting static targets, the second required shooting from a swinging platform, and the third, a more challenging task, involved hitting a willow branch with a red ribbon from a hundred meters away. Points were awarded for hitting targets in each round, with a total of ten points for the overall conference. Before the first round, Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong exchanged determined glances.

Qin Shang Cheng told her he wouldn't let her win this time, to which Hua Rong vowed to fight until the end. Both performed well in the first round, drawing applause from the crowd. The second round proved difficult; previous participants struggled to maintain balance on the swing due to recoil and the swinging motion, causing them to fall off.

When it was Qin Shang Cheng's turn, he ingeniously hooked one foot around the swing's rope to stabilize himself, successfully hitting the bullseye. Hua Rong, observing his technique, emulated his posture when her turn came. It was noted that Qin Shang Cheng had deliberately set this example to help her. Although she adopted his method, her arrow veered slightly from the bullseye.

The third and final round demanded the greatest skill: participants had to shoot a red ribbon on a willow branch from a hundred meters away. Several competitors, frustrated by the difficulty, withdrew from the challenge. When Hua Rong stepped onto the stage, she recalled Qin Shang Cheng's earlier lesson on proper breathing and focus.

He had taught her to breathe deeply into her stomach, collect her thoughts, exhale slowly, and to feel the willow branch swaying from within, combining her heart with the arrow. Following his instructions, Hua Rong took a deep breath, released her arrow, and perfectly struck the red ribbon, eliciting cheers from the crowd. Immediately after, Three Arrows, a member of the Heilong Secret Society, suddenly appeared and fired an arrow at Hua Rong.

Fortunately, Qin Shang Cheng swiftly intervened, intercepting the arrow just in time. That night, Hua Rong, shaken by the near-miss, wondered if Qin Shang Cheng would send her back to Tian Chu. Qin Shang Cheng, observing her distress, explained his silence by pondering the enemy's remarkable archery skills and their escape, concluding that the adversary was far stronger than he had initially imagined.

He reassured Hua Rong that he would not send her away, reiterating his commitment to trusting her and facing any future difficulties together. When Hua Rong asked why she had been targeted, Qin Shang Cheng theorized that the enemy sought to expose his identity as the Yunhe Warrior, suspecting that his previous instruction to her while in that disguise might have revealed him.

Hua Rong blamed herself for causing him trouble due to her self-will, but Qin Shang Cheng dismissed her self-reproach, simply stating that she only needed to know his sincere care for her well-being. He then presented her with a bottle of Perfume of Midie, explaining it would allow him to locate her instantly, no matter where she went.

He also informed her that he had commissioned a gold armor, to be ready the next morning, urging her to wear it for protection. Later, seeing she couldn't sleep, he massaged her Hegu acupoint to soothe her nerves. Jin Yiwen invited Qin Shang Cheng for a drink. During their conversation, Jin Yiwen, acknowledging the dangers of the ongoing contest, suggested that Qin Shang Cheng send Hua Rong back to Tian Chu for her safety.

Qin Shang Cheng firmly refused, stating that since he had chosen to trust her, he would confront all challenges alongside her and would be fully responsible for her well-being. Jin Yiwen remarked that Qin Shang Cheng had transformed significantly and now understood Hua Rong better than anyone else in the world. He offered his assistance, and Qin Shang Cheng acknowledged Jin Yiwen's profound understanding of him.

The Heilong Secret Society's Grand Master received a report from his subordinate confirming Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong's close relationship while they were in Tian Chu. The subordinate further revealed that a portrait of Qin Shang Cheng was created based on information from their Tian Chu branch. The Grand Master then deduced that Situ Cheng was, in fact, Qin Shang Cheng, and that it was he who had saved Hua Rong at the recent conference.

Angered by Qin Shang Cheng's previous disruption of his Heilong Secret Society in Tian Chu, the Grand Master realized that Qin Shang Cheng had come specifically for him. The subordinate speculated about a close connection between Qin Shang Cheng and Yunhe. The Grand Master, seizing on this, declared that by focusing on Qin Shang Cheng, they could uncover clues to acquire the white jade of Yunhe, and confirmed his subordinate fully understood the plan for the following day.

The next day, Wan Wan expressed concern about Jin Yiwen's health, as he had insisted on drinking with Qin Shang Cheng the previous night, despite his known alcohol allergy. Chairman Lu then announced to the assembled crowd that Qin Shang Cheng, using the alias Situ Cheng, and Hua Rong had both excelled in the written and martial arts portions of the contest, resulting in a tie. An additional examination would be held to determine the final victor.

However, Qin Shang Cheng interjected, stating that he was withdrawing from the competition because his heart already belonged to someone. He added that Hua Rong had proven her capability and was worthy of being the champion. Hua Rong then presented Jin Yiwen's token to Chairman Lu, asserting her right to claim the white jade on Jin Yiwen's behalf. Chairman Lu agreed, leading Hua Rong to a secret chamber where the invaluable white jade was supposedly kept.

Hua Rong was initially misled by Chairman Lu's attendant, Lady Lianer, who claimed Jin Yiwen wanted to speak with her outside, diverting her away. Chairman Lu then led Hua Rong into a secret chamber, showing her a cabinet where the white jade was supposedly stored. However, as she entered, she was ambushed and surrounded by members of the Heilong Secret Society, led by Three Arrows.

Three Arrows accused her of escaping him by chance before and ordered his men to seize her. Just as they moved in, Qin Shang Cheng arrived, swiftly intervening and protecting Hua Rong. Three Arrows then revealed that his men had captured Wan Wan, Chairman Lu's daughter, and threatened that if he didn't return within two hours, his Grand Master would kill her.

Chairman Lu, already distraught, confirmed that the men in black had kidnapped his daughter and coerced him into using a fake white jade as a prize for the contest. Seeing Wan Wan's jade pendant, he realized the full extent of their manipulation.

Faced with this dire ultimatum, and at Hua Rong's urgent plea, Qin Shang Cheng reluctantly allowed Three Arrows and his men to escape, knowing they held Wan Wan hostage and would return for the white jade later that night. Despite Chairman Lu's despair over Wan Wan's kidnapping, Hua Rong calmly reassured him, revealing her foresight.

She explained that after Qin Shang Cheng had previously mentioned the Heilong Secret Society's attempt to use Wan Wan as a hostage, she had discreetly applied the Perfume of Midie to Wan Wan's clothes. This ensured that butterflies would follow Wan Wan wherever she went, creating a traceable path. Qian Dayou praised Hua Rong's cleverness and bravery. Qin Shang Cheng also commended her quick thinking.

With this ingenious method, Qin Shang Cheng, Hua Rong, and their allies set out, following the butterflies, and quickly located Wan Wan's captivity site. They then dispersed to find a secret tunnel, which they soon discovered, preparing for her rescue.

Episode 19 Recap

Qin Shang Cheng and his group located the secret passage leading to Lu Wanwan. During the rescue, they were ambushed. Qin Shang Cheng instructed Jin Yiwen to go down the passage and save Wanwan, while Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou were tasked with holding off the pursuers outside. Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong then went separately to search for Three Arrows, with Qin Shang Cheng cautioning Hua Rong to be careful, as the assassin might be hiding nearby.

Jin Yiwen found Lu Wanwan chained up. Despite warnings from his subordinates that cutting the chains with a knife could ignite gunpowder hidden beneath haystacks, Jin Yiwen insisted on rescuing her. Just as they freed her, the room exploded. Jin Yiwen urged everyone to hurry and escape, and they managed to flee the blast. Afterwards, Lu Wanwan asked if he was alright, and Jin Yiwen assured her he was fine. Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong cautiously confronted Three Arrows.

Qin Shang Cheng noted that the assassin, known for carrying only three arrows, had already used one, leaving two. Hua Rong, however, warned Qin Shang Cheng to be careful, acknowledging Three Arrows' formidable archery skills. Qin Shang Cheng, spotting Three Arrows hiding in a tree fifty paces northeast, suggested Hua Rong shoot Three Arrows while he acted as bait to draw the assassin out, thereby revealing his position.

Hua Rong was worried, finding the plan too dangerous, especially since Three Arrows' arrows seemed to grow stronger with each shot, making the third one exceptionally difficult to dodge. Qin Shang Cheng reassured her, urging her to trust him, and Hua Rong, despite her fears, agreed. Qin Shang Cheng counted down, then rushed out as bait. Three Arrows aimed his arrow at Qin Shang Cheng, while Hua Rong simultaneously aimed her dagger at the assassin.

Hua Rong successfully struck Three Arrows with her dagger, but at the same moment, Three Arrows' arrow shot towards Qin Shang Cheng. Qin Shang Cheng attempted to block it with his sword, but the arrow unexpectedly split into two mid-air, and he was hit. Hua Rong, seeing him fall and kneel, cried out his name in distress, fearing the worst and reminding him of his promise to take her to Hua Rong Island.

Qin Shang Cheng, feigning pain for a moment, then stood up, revealing he was unharmed due to the golden silk soft armor given to him by Qian Dayou. He reassured Hua Rong, and apologized for scaring her. His men quickly arrived and apprehended Three Arrows. Three Arrows, impressed by Qin Shang Cheng, acknowledged him as the only person to survive his three arrows and expressed his admiration for Qin Shang Cheng's skill.

Qin Shang Cheng attempted to interrogate Three Arrows about the mastermind behind him, but before he could extract any information, Three Arrows was killed remotely by an unseen assailant. Qin Shang Cheng instructed Zhang Xian to investigate the assassin's background.

Meanwhile, the Black Dragon Gang leader, having learned that Three Arrows failed, expressed growing interest in Qin Shang Cheng and ordered his subordinate, Jin Fu, to spread the news that the other half of the white jade was located in Mengdie Villa. President Lu hosted a banquet to thank everyone for helping his daughter, Lu Wanwan. He specifically expressed gratitude to Jin Yiwen for bravely saving her life, although Jin Yiwen modestly stated it was a collective effort.

President Lu then acknowledged Jin Yiwen as the ultimate winner of the son-in-law contest, participating on behalf of his brother, Jin Duoxiong, and sought Jin Yiwen's opinion on the matter. Lu Wanwan, however, interrupted her father, declaring that she would not marry someone she had never met, as she already had Jin Yiwen in her heart.

Jin Yiwen assured President Lu that he would explain the situation to his brother and promised that Miss Wanwan would not be forced to marry someone she disliked. President Lu was grateful for Jin Yiwen's understanding. President Lu announced the Wan Jiang willow festival, suggesting everyone enjoy the lanterns to relax. Hua Rong took on the task of dressing up Lu Wanwan, who resisted at first, finding various dresses too bright or common.

Lu Wanwan playfully suggested Hua Rong wear a "fairy dress" for her "first official date with Mr. Qin," but Hua Rong insisted Lu Wanwan wear it to thank Jin Yiwen. Hua Rong encouraged Lu Wanwan to be direct about her feelings, believing Jin Yiwen must like her since he sacrificed himself to save her. Hua Rong then personally helped Lu Wanwan remove the intentionally disfiguring makeup to surprise Jin Yiwen.

Meanwhile, Qin Shang Cheng subtly probed Jin Yiwen about President Lu's apparent attempt to matchmake him with Lu Wanwan at the festival. Jin Yiwen, embarrassed, pleaded with Qin Shang Cheng to stop joking, stating he had only known Lu Wanwan for less than a month and they were just good friends. When Lu Wanwan descended the stairs, her face was no longer adorned with the intentionally disfiguring makeup, replaced by a delicate, elegant, and pure appearance in a pink gown.

Jin Yiwen gazed at her, visibly delighted. As the four enjoyed the lantern festival, Qin Shang Cheng teased Hua Rong about her intentions to leave them alone, which she confirmed was to give Lu Wanwan and Jin Yiwen a chance to connect. Qin Shang Cheng agreed, adding that it also gave him and Hua Rong a chance to be alone. They then excused themselves to go see the fireworks.

Jin Yiwen and Lu Wanwan found themselves alone, with Lu Wanwan thanking Jin Yiwen for saving her life, lamenting that her happiness used to be dictated by her father, but now she had met good friends, especially him. Jin Yiwen dismissed her gratitude, saying she owed him nothing. He then returned a jade pendant to Lu Wanwan, explaining it was a cherished item left by her mother, and it was important for it to be with its rightful owner.

Lu Wanwan, touched by his thoughtfulness, suggested they go watch the traditional big head doll dancing performance, which Jin Yiwen readily agreed to. Hua Rong prepared a Kongming lantern, planning to make a wish. As fireworks lit up the sky, several other Kongming lanterns ascended, carrying a romantic poem that read, "I love you, nothing's gonna change me. If I marry you, even death can't separate us. Eternal love never ends in this world."

Hua Rong realized with surprise that these lanterns bore her very own unspoken wish. Qin Shang Cheng revealed he knew her wish because she spoke it in her sleep, which made her playfully accuse him of watching her while she slept. Despite the playful banter, Hua Rong was deeply touched by Qin Shang Cheng's thoughtful preparation.

Feeling a moment of profound happiness, Hua Rong admitted to Qin Shang Cheng that she felt a little nervous, fearing she might lose this newfound joy. Qin Shang Cheng, embracing her, reassured her that no one could take her away from him. Hua Rong then accepted his repaired golden lock, which he told her he had stayed up many nights to fix. When asked about her wish, Hua Rong wished for them to accompany each other forever.

Qin Shang Cheng, calling her greedy, then revealed his wish: that Hua Hua, the heroine, would never get hurt while fighting for justice. The next morning, Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong were having eel noodles, which Hua Rong enjoyed despite it not being as good as her hometown's. Qin Shang Cheng promised to hire a cook or even learn to cook himself to make her favorite dishes.

Just as Qin Shang Cheng was about to kiss Hua Rong, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian burst into the room, complaining that Qin Shang Cheng was not in his room earlier and teasing him about a "hard night." Qin Shang Cheng cut them off, asking about the important news. Zhang Xian reported that the assassin was named Three Arrows, known for taking lives with only three arrows, and was a disciple of Mengdie Villa.

Furthermore, a rumor had spread that the second piece of white jade was also at Mengdie Villa. Hua Rong speculated that Mengdie Villa might be behind the son-in-law competition, noting the suspicious timing of Three Arrows' death and the sudden rumor about the white jade. Qin Shang Cheng praised Hua Rong for her intelligence, and she suggested they go to Mengdie Villa to investigate the truth. Qin Shang Cheng agreed, emphasizing that they should leave immediately.

Qian Dayou remained to finish his meal. The group prepared to leave for Mengdie Villa. Hua Rong bade farewell to Lu Wanwan, reassuring her she would return. Jin Yiwen also expressed regret at not being able to accompany them due to pressing matters at Jin Manor.

Lu Wanwan playfully told Hua Rong that if Qin Shang Cheng ever bullied her, she'd stand up for her, to which Qian Dayou chimed in that he and Qin Shang Cheng would protect Lu Wanwan if Jin Yiwen treated her badly. As they departed, Hua Rong impulsively asked the carriage to stop, explaining it was a "secret." She then went to a shop and bought all the Yunhe master clay figurines.

Qin Shang Cheng, worried when she didn't return from the shop, came to find her at the theater and, upon seeing her, took over and paid a generous sum for all the figurines. A little girl, excited about Yunhe master, dragged Hua Rong to a theater where a play about "Yunhe master and his partner" was being performed.

Hua Rong commented on how "so-so" the actor playing Yunhe master was, while the little girl described the real Yunhe master as having all qualities: gentle, hardhearted, bossy, and affectionate, in a word, "perfect." Hua Rong, realizing the girl was describing Qin Shang Cheng, playfully remarked, "So many girls like you."

Hua Rong was already fuming about "Tang Chudie," the "first woman master in Wanjiang," who was being portrayed as Yunhe master's "Yun Die Heros" partner, the "best couple in the world." Qin Shang Cheng, noticing her jealousy, climbed onto the stage and declared to the audience that the real Yunhe master loves only one person in his life, pointing to Hua Rong.

Hua Rong, still a bit miffed but also flattered, teasingly asked him when he became so sweet, to which he responded that she had changed him. Qin Shang Cheng, Hua Rong, and their group arrived at an inn at the foot of Mengdie Villa. Qian Dayou complained about the long journey, noting how difficult it would be to reach the top. Qin Shang Cheng decided they would stay the night and ascend the next day.

Zhang Xian revealed he had obtained a map, noting that Mengdie Villa was strategically located, making it hard to find and defend. Hua Rong concurred, believing there must be something suspicious about the place. While dining, the one-eyed merchant from the son-in-law contest recognized Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong, expressing surprise at their pairing. He soon lost his appetite and left, but returned to proposition Qin Shang Cheng, suggesting they ally to acquire the white jade at Mengdie Villa.

Qin Shang Cheng rejected the offer. The merchant then revealed that the young owner of Mengdie Villa was Tang Chudie, the "first woman master in Wanjiang." Hua Rong was visibly annoyed by this "coincidence," while Qin Shang Cheng seemed surprised. Qian Dayou then stepped in, rudely dismissing Tang Chudie.

At this point, Ye Chen, the young master of Lingshui Temple, intervened, introducing himself and explaining that while the merchant's words were impolite, his observation about ascending the mountain alone was not unreasonable. Ye Chen, having arrived a day earlier, warned that several groups had attempted the ascent and gone missing.

He proposed that the three parties — Qin Shang Cheng's group, the one-eyed merchant, and himself — ascend together for safety, competing for the white jade only after reaching the villa. Qin Shang Cheng agreed, and Ye Chen preemptively paid for everyone's meal to show his sincerity, though Qian Dayou insisted they could pay their own way.

Qian Dayou then pulled Qin Shang Cheng aside, urging him not to tell Hua Rong that Tang Chudie was the villa's owner, fearing her reaction after her recent jealousy at the theater. Hua Rong overheard their whispers and demanded to know what they were talking about. Qian Dayou quickly explained that Qin Shang Cheng, the one-eyed merchant, and Ye Chen would ascend the mountain together the next morning for safety.

Hua Rong asked if they were reliable, to which Qin Shang Cheng replied that going together was the safest way, and Hua Rong reluctantly agreed to trust his judgment. The next morning, the allied group began their ascent. As they climbed, the one-eyed merchant grew impatient, questioning Ye Chen's earlier warning about missing groups, suggesting it was false news, and urging everyone to hurry to prevent others from taking the white jade. Ye Chen, however, advised caution.

The path soon became shrouded in thick fog. Zhang Xian asked if they were on the wrong path, but Qin Shang Cheng confirmed it was the only way up. The one-eyed merchant grew irritated by Ye Chen's calm explanation about the humidity forming the fog, challenged the others, and impatiently rushed ahead. Qin Shang Cheng noticed something amiss in the thick mist and asked Hua Rong if she had also noticed anything unusual.

Episode 20 Recap

Qin Shang Cheng and his companions, including Hua Rong, Qian Dayou, Zhang Xian, and a one-eyed man, set out to ascend the mountain. As they climbed, they encountered a dense fog. The one-eyed man, confident, took the lead, stepping directly into the mist. Qin Shang Cheng immediately sensed something unusual about the fog. Hua Rong, after a careful look, also noticed the strange anomaly.

Ye Chen, observing from a distance, speculated that a hidden array was concealed within the foggy forest and decided to watch before making a move. Undeterred, Qin Shang Cheng and his group ventured deeper into the mist. Inside the forest, Qin Shang Cheng tested Hua Rong's knowledge. Hua Rong quickly recognized the fog formation as the "Seven-Star Dipper Eight Trigrams Array," a tactical formation recorded in Qin Shang Cheng's own "Journey of the Crane."

She explained that to break the array, one must first locate the direction of the array eye and then follow the routes of the seven stars: Tianshu, Tianxuan, Tianji, Tianquan, Yuheng, Kaiyang, and Yaoguang. When asked for the current array eye's direction, Hua Rong confidently pointed towards the northwest. Qian Dayou expressed surprise that Mengdie Villa would use a formation invented by Qin Shang Cheng himself.

As they discussed, a commotion nearby suggested the one-eyed man was in trouble, reinforcing the sense of danger surrounding Mengdie Villa. Despite this, Qin Shang Cheng insisted they continue their journey, and Hua Rong led them successfully out of the maze. Qian Dayou praised Hua Rong’s intelligence. Upon exiting the fog, Qin Shang Cheng halted, waiting for someone. Soon, Ye Chen and his men appeared, claiming they had simply followed Qin Shang Cheng's footprints out of the maze.

However, Qin Shang Cheng and Qian Dayou had already suspected Ye Chen's true intentions and remained silent, maintaining their guard. The group then arrived at an old, dilapidated rope bridge spanning a deep chasm. Ye Chen volunteered to cross first and did so safely. Qin Shang Cheng then instructed Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian to cross.

As Qin Shang Cheng led Hua Rong across the swaying bridge, Ye Chen's subordinates attempted to sabotage it, but Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian quickly intervened, thwarting their efforts. Once safely across, Ye Chen realized that Qin Shang Cheng and his group had been wary of them all along. Hua Rong then revealed that the array eye of the Seven-Star Dipper Eight Trigrams Array changes with the time, making it impossible for Ye Chen to have merely followed their path.

She concluded that Ye Chen must be an associate of Mengdie Villa. Exposed, Ye Chen fled. Qin Shang Cheng decided against pursuing him, understanding that Ye Chen's familiarity with the terrain could lead them into another trap. Continuing their journey, the group reached a cliff face when sudden falling rocks forced them to retreat.

A young girl named Xiao Die, whose leg was injured, warned them that the path was treacherous due to boulders and offered to guide them through a hidden, safer route. She explained that she had arrived at Mengdie Villa with her father, who was injured and captured. She desperately sought to rescue him and, kneeling, pleaded for their help. Initially, Qin Shang Cheng was hesitant, but Hua Rong, touched by Xiao Die's plight, agreed to assist her.

Qian Dayou reluctantly carried Xiao Die. Xiao Die offered her sachet, which contained sandalwood, for them to smell. After walking a significant distance, the group stopped to rest. They noticed a peculiar, flowery fragrance. Hua Rong suddenly realized the scent was poisonous, and one by one, everyone collapsed. Ye Chen then emerged and woke Xiao Die, revealing that she was, in fact, the owner of Mengdie Villa.

He ordered his subordinates to take Qin Shang Cheng and the others to the dungeon. However, Qin Shang Cheng and Hua Rong stood up, completely unaffected. Qin Shang Cheng calmly explained that he had already replaced the fragrance in Xiao Die's sachet. Ye Chen acknowledged Qin Shang Cheng's cleverness, stating that neither the sachet's scent nor the flowers were individually toxic, but their combination was highly potent.

Xiao Die, revealed to be Tang Chudie, confronted them, demanding the release of her senior fellow apprentice and threatening their lives if they refused. Qin Shang Cheng then questioned her about Sanjian, asking if he was a disciple of Mengdie Villa. Tang Chudie challenged him to a duel for the answer, a challenge Qin Shang Cheng declined, stating he never competes with women.

Qin Shang Cheng then performed a swift "Crane Wing" move, which visibly surprised Tang Chudie, causing her to ask if he was Yunhe. Tang Chudie then offered them lodging in Mengdie Villa, promising a satisfactory explanation for everything. Inside Mengdie Villa, Tang Chudie clarified that Sanjian had been expelled from the villa two months prior for repeatedly violating its rules, showing them a detailed list of disciples as proof.

While she wasn't sure of Sanjian's whereabouts, she described him as a skilled martial artist but a man driven by greed and a desire for fame, implying his current actions were separate from the villa. Qin Shang Cheng then inquired about the rumors of white jade being in Mengdie Villa. Tang Chudie claimed the rumors were false and that the villa did not possess any white jade, nor did they have any knowledge of it.

She explained that the villa had suffered greatly from those attempting to steal the jade, which was why she had imprisoned the intruders. Observing Tang Chudie's sudden shift from hostility to hospitality, Qin Shang Cheng questioned her change in demeanor. Tang Chudie admitted her change was due to him, revealing that she harbored gratitude for his past actions from three years ago, even though Qin Shang Cheng could not recall the incident.

Later, in his room, Qin Shang Cheng contemplated whether to tell Hua Rong about Tang Chudie's past connection to him. Qian Dayou advised against it, warning him that women are inherently jealous and Hua Rong would surely be upset. Despite the warning, Qin Shang Cheng decided he would be honest with Hua Rong. Meanwhile, Hua Rong secretly went to a study and discovered a painting of Qin Shang Cheng and Tang Chudie.

Not long after, Qin Shang Cheng arrived at the study at Tang Chudie's invitation. Suspecting a private rendezvous, Hua Rong hid, intending to eavesdrop. Tang Chudie pressed Qin Shang Cheng, asking if he was truly Yunhe, the hero who saved her at Wanjiang Harbor three years ago. Qin Shang Cheng deflected, claiming his wife, Hua Rong, was the one who broke the array, and revealing he was a married man.

Hua Rong, still hidden, inadvertently made a sound, leading Qin Shang Cheng to jokingly dismiss it as a mouse before covering for her, helping her slip away unnoticed by Tang Chudie. Hua Rong later confronted Qin Shang Cheng, accusing him of a "date" with Tang Chudie. He attempted to explain, but she remained peeved. That evening, Tang Chudie hosted a banquet in the courtyard. Hua Rong asked Tang Chudie about the whereabouts of the villa's owner, her father.

Tang Chudie explained that her father was in seclusion. Hua Rong then proposed that she and Tang Chudie become sworn sisters. Tang Chudie agreed, revealing her full name as Tang Chudie. Upon hearing this, Hua Rong realized that she was the renowned female swordsman of Wanjiang. Feeling slighted, Hua Rong became indignant and began drinking heavily before excusing herself from the banquet, with Qin Shang Cheng quickly following to try and appease her.

Back in their room, a drunken Hua Rong sprawled on the bed, complaining to Qin Shang Cheng about his constant charm that seemed to attract women, now including Tang Chudie. She accused him of being a "playboy" and expressed her strong dislike for other girls around him. Qin Shang Cheng tried to reassure her, reiterating that he only cared for her. Despite her inebriation and lingering jealousy, Hua Rong confessed her fear that he might one day leave her. Qin Shang Cheng tenderly held her, promising that as long as she never left him, he would never leave her.

Episode 21 Recap

Tang Chudie held deep affection for Qin Shangcheng and had carefully painted his portrait. Meanwhile, Wanwan pressed Jin Yiwen to go to Mengdie Villa to find Hua Rong. Jin Yiwen held a money dart, the very hidden weapon that had killed Sanjian. Jin Yiwen had been diligently searching for the money dart’s owner and suspected it was Jin Fu, the steward of Jin Palace.

A source then informed Jin Yiwen that Jin Fu was anxiously waiting for someone, prompting Jin Yiwen to immediately depart. Jin Yiwen's subordinate observed Jin Fu meeting a cloaked figure. Listening intently, Jin Yiwen heard the cloaked person address Jin Fu as "Boss Jin" and confirm that Qin Shangcheng was indeed Yunhe, possessing the other white jade piece. The cloaked figure, identified as someone from Mengdie Villa, was informed that Jin Fu was working for the young lord.

The cloaked figure promised to report any new developments regarding Qin Shangcheng, while Jin Fu assured him that the young lord would fulfill his promise upon their success. Jin Yiwen instructed his subordinate not to send spies, as Jin Fu was cautious and might have hidden guards. He emphasized that since they now knew the person was from Mengdie Villa, they should avoid alerting them. Jin Yiwen also specifically told his subordinate not to inform Wanwan for her safety.

Back at Mengdie Villa, Hua Rong, still fuming from the previous night, forcefully expelled Qin Shangcheng from her room. Qian Dayou noticed Qin Shangcheng’s somber mood. Lianxin, Tang Chudie's servant, brought breakfast to Qin Shangcheng, explaining that Tang Chudie had personally prepared it for him and the others. She mentioned that Hua Rong’s breakfast had been sent separately by another servant, highlighting Tang Chudie’s thoughtfulness.

Qian Dayou advised Qin Shangcheng that they faced two main issues: calming Hua Rong and confirming whether the white jade was in Mengdie Villa. He proposed a strategy of "retreat in order to advance" to resolve both. At Mengdie Villa, Tang Chudie explained to Qin Shangcheng and his group that Sanjian, who had attacked them earlier, was indeed from her villa but had long since left.

She clarified that the rumor about a treasure map being in Mengdie Villa was false, suggesting it was spread by someone with malicious intent. Qin Shangcheng, addressing Tang Chudie as Mr. Situ, then directly asked if she had the white jade in her villa. Tang Chudie denied interest in treasures but questioned his intense focus on the white jade. Qin Shangcheng stated he had his reasons and pressed for a direct answer. Tang Chudie denied possessing it.

Observing Tang Chudie’s expression, Hua Rong grew suspicious, sensing there was more to the situation. She also speculated that Mengdie Villa might be connected to her adoptive father's death and decided to investigate a secret room she had discovered the day before. Qin Shangcheng announced his intention to leave. Tang Chudie then asked Hua Rong to convince Qin Shangcheng to stay. Hua Rong scoffed, declaring she would stay regardless, praising the villa's scenery and people.

Qin Shangcheng, feigning departure, told Hua Rong to pack. Hua Rong questioned his hasty departure, hinting at a hidden connection with Tang Chudie. Qin Shangcheng explained his pretense was a strategy to make Hua Rong calm down and also to prompt Tang Chudie to reveal the white jade, as he believed Tang Chudie, knowing he possessed a white jade piece, would not miss the opportunity to unite them.

Meanwhile, Lianxin commented to Tang Chudie about her apparent longing for Qin Shangcheng, whom she referred to as Yunhe, the one who had captivated her for three years. Yechen approached Tang Chudie, revealing that he had tracked Qin Shangcheng and uncovered his true identity as the Pirate King, who used "Mr. Situ" and "Yunhe" as mere disguises.

Yechen warned Tang Chudie that Qin Shangcheng and his group had come to Mengdie Villa solely for the white jade and would resort to any means to acquire it, urging her to be prepared. Tang Chudie calmly responded that she had her own plans. Hua Rong ventured into the secret room, where she found a blank tablet. Upon opening a box beneath it, a mechanism was triggered, trapping her inside.

She realized the box was intended for the white jade, but it was empty. Tang Chudie, alerted to the intrusion, immediately suspected Qin Shangcheng. Yechen, arriving with Tang Chudie, accused Hua Rong of breaking in and stealing the jade. Hua Rong vehemently denied the accusation, insisting the box was empty when she found it. Qin Shangcheng intervened, and Tang Chudie confirmed that Hua Rong had not stolen the jade because the box contained nothing.

Qin Shangcheng then recognized a meteor hammer in the room as his adoptive father's weapon. He demanded to know why it was there. Tang Chudie, recognizing him as Uncle Qin’s adoptive son, explained that her father and Qin Shangcheng’s adoptive father were sworn brothers in their youth, though they had later gone their separate ways for reasons her father never disclosed.

She revealed that her father had erected the blank tablet for Uncle Qin eight years ago, with strict instructions to keep it a secret to prevent tragedy from befalling Mengdie Villa. Qin Shangcheng decided to meet Tang Chudie's father to verify her account, and she offered to accompany him to Taohua Valley where her father was practicing. They planned to set off the next day.

Hua Rong, overhearing this, grew frustrated, feeling that "Yunhe and Mengdie" were forming a closer bond, making her feel alienated. She confronted Qin Shangcheng, who tried to mollify her. Hua Rong accused him of hiding Tang Chudie’s identity. Qin Shangcheng swore he would keep no more secrets from her. Hua Rong "forgave" him but declared him on "observation," warning him against any further involvement with Tang Chudie.

Qin Shangcheng, still uncertain about the veracity of Tang Chudie’s story, reiterated his need to meet her father for confirmation and Hua Rong pledged to help him uncover the truth behind his father’s death. Hua Rong, however, refused Qin Shangcheng’s attempt at a hug, telling him to leave to pack.

Lianxin assisted Tang Chudie in packing for the trip, highlighting it as a perfect opportunity to showcase her beauty and capabilities to Qin Shangcheng, emphasizing that Hua Rong was not Qin Shangcheng's type due to her supposedly rude and unvirtuous nature. Tang Chudie, though initially hesitant, agreed to try her best, stating she would accept Qin Shangcheng's choice if he still preferred Hua Rong.

Hua Rong, overhearing servants discussing Tang Chudie's elaborate preparations for a potential wedding, resolved not to be outdone. She instructed her own servants to prepare her most exquisite makeup and jewelry. She then openly challenged Tang Chudie, declaring she was not afraid of a "war." Qian Dayou warned Qin Shangcheng about the "horrible" war between women, but Qin Shangcheng dismissed his concerns. Later that night, Yechen visited Hua Rong and proposed a collaboration.

Hua Rong quickly surmised that Yechen harbored feelings for Tang Chudie and was upset that Tang Chudie might ignore him on the trip to Taohua Valley. Yechen denied this, stating his desire to see his master and acknowledging their common goals. Hua Rong accepted his offer, believing that "one more friend is better than one more enemy."

The next day, Tang Chudie appeared in an elaborate outfit, complete with carefully chosen makeup and accessories, having clearly put significant effort into her appearance for the journey. Hua Rong, however, noticed that Qin Shangcheng did not even spare a glance for Tang Chudie. Hua Rong complimented Tang Chudie's elaborate look, subtly implying it was for a date, while Tang Chudie countered that she was merely showing her "true inner side" now that she had time.

They continued to subtly mock each other’s jewelry choices, with Hua Rong hinting that Tang Chudie’s elegant earrings were more suited for “mature women” and Tang Chudie suggesting Hua Rong’s accessories were fine for “young kids.” Hua Rong then provocatively warned Tang Chudie to be cautious in the carriage, likening their verbal sparring to a dangerous fight. At the hot spring villa, Jin Fu met with the owner to arrange for the theft of the white jade, requesting assistance.

He described a group of four men and two women who would soon arrive, specifically mentioning a man who resembled a “bully” and possessed a white jade stone. Jin Fu demanded this jade, brushing aside the owner’s query about a treasure map, and promising a hefty payment. The owner agreed to the task.

Upon their arrival at the hot spring villa, Tang Chudie, wary of potential poisoning, insisted on cooking herself and asked for kitchen access, offering to pay for the ingredients. Hua Rong, agreeing with the caution, volunteered to help. Inside the kitchen, Tang Chudie worked efficiently, while Hua Rong struggled with her dishes.

The female owner of the villa, noticing Tang Chudie's carefulness, approached Hua Rong and offered cooking advice, subtly adding an unknown substance to Hua Rong's toasted meat while guiding her. During dinner, Qian Dayou suggested that Hua Rong and Tang Chudie introduce their dishes. Tang Chudie presented her appetizer, "Nobody," a sweet and fresh concoction. Hua Rong then introduced her "Hard-edged" dish, a mango and unnamed fruit creation that started astringent but finished sweet.

Tang Chudie presented "Matching," an elegant dish of trepang and abalone, implying a perfect match. Qin Shangcheng praised Tang Chudie's dish, interpreting its ingredients, millet and trepang, as a metaphor for a couple supporting each other. Tang Chudie offered Qin Shangcheng her favorite sweet and sour lake fish, which she associated with a special memory of meeting him at Wanjiang Harbor three years prior. Qin Shangcheng found it too sour.

Hua Rong then invited Qin Shangcheng to try her toasted meat, recalling a special memory of eating it with her lover. Suddenly, Tang Chudie dramatically knocked Hua Rong's toasted meat off the table, claiming it was burnt and unsuitable for Qin Shangcheng. Lianxin accused Tang Chudie of acting on purpose, but Tang Chudie simply declared herself full and left. Qian Dayou tried to console Hua Rong, suggesting Tang Chudie was merely embarrassed by her inferior cooking.

However, Hua Rong suspected Tang Chudie had acted intentionally, perhaps for a specific reason beyond mere jealousy. Later, while bathing in the hot spring, Hua Rong confronted Tang Chudie about her actions, but Tang Chudie refused to give a direct explanation. Yechen, speaking to Qin Shangcheng, suggested that Tang Chudie’s behavior stemmed from anger over Qin Shangcheng's perceived favoritism towards Hua Rong. Qin Shangcheng mused that perhaps this indicated his place in Tang Chudie’s heart.

Hua Rong realized the villa owner had tampered with her roasted meat. She also shrewdly deduced that Qin Shangcheng had deliberately requested the hot spring service to lower their enemies’ guard and draw them out. Soon after, assassins appeared. Qin Shangcheng instructed Yechen to protect Hua Rong. Hua Rong watched as Qin Shangcheng and Tang Chudie fought the assassins with impressive coordination, a sight that left her feeling deeply saddened. The assassins eventually retreated. Qin Shangcheng and Tang Chudie then checked each other for injuries.

Episode 22 Recap

As expected, assassins ambushed Qin Shangcheng and his group at the villa. After dealing with the attackers and returning indoors, Ye Chen discovered that Qin Shangcheng's white jade had been stolen. Qin Shangcheng then revealed to Ye Chen that he had deliberately placed a fake white jade to lure their enemies out, and that the landlady had poisoned their meal. Ye Chen commended Qin Shangcheng's foresight.

Zhang Xian arrived, confirming that the landlady had fled the villa overnight, which fully illuminated Qin Shangcheng and Tang Chudie's plan to use her to draw out the mastermind. Ye Chen expressed frustration that Qin Shangcheng had kept the truth from him, but Qin Shangcheng urged everyone to leave quickly. Following the landlady, Qin Shangcheng and his group arrived at a brothel called Fengming Pavilion.

Qin Shangcheng instructed Dayou, Zhang Xian, Hua Rong, and Tang Chudie to wait outside, stating it was unsuitable for the women to enter. Tang Chudie also advised Hua Rong to listen to Qin Shangcheng, fearing her father's disapproval if she visited such a place. Reluctantly, Hua Rong agreed to wait outside with the others. Determined to assist, Hua Rong and Tang Chudie secretly subdued two pipa players, disguised themselves with veils, and entered the main hall of the brothel.

Qin Shangcheng quickly spotted them among the performers. Jin Fu, already aware of their true identities, summoned Hua Rong and Tang Chudie to his private room. He promptly revealed their disguises. Jin Fu then had Qin Shangcheng and Ye Chen brought to his room. He displayed the fake white jade he had stolen, asserting that he had Hua Rong and Tang Chudie in his control, and proposed a trade: their safety for the real white jade.

Tang Chudie feigned willingness to perform "Ambush on All Sides" for him. As Jin Fu prepared to escalate his attack, Tang Chudie, using her pipa's strings as improvised weapons, skillfully fended off his henchmen. Suddenly, Jin Yiwen arrived, having already subdued Jin Fu's external guards. He informed everyone that Jin Fu's true master was Jin Duoxiong, Jin Yiwen's elder brother. Jin Yiwen expressed deep remorse for his brother's actions, apologizing to everyone present.

Qin Shangcheng reassured him, asserting that Jin Yiwen was distinct from his brother's wrongdoings and their actions were unrelated. Jin Yiwen then shared crucial intelligence: there was a spy for Jin Fu hidden within Mengdie Mountain Villa. Although he had no concrete proof and hadn't seen the spy's face clearly, he had overheard Jin Fu meeting with this individual at Youlan Pavilion.

Tang Chudie, alarmed by this revelation, immediately worried for her father's safety, as his secluded retreat within the villa might now be compromised. Recognizing the urgency, the group quickly decided to return to Mengdie Mountain Villa, specifically heading towards the Peach Valley where Tang Chudie's father's secret shelter was located. Upon reaching Peach Valley, Tang Chudie led the group to a hidden shelter where her father, the Villa Master, was supposed to be in retreat.

After she opened the hidden door, a voice from inside confirmed he was fine. Qin Shangcheng respectfully greeted the Villa Master. Unexpectedly, the person disguised as Tang Villa Master suddenly shot a dart at Qin Shangcheng. Tang Chudie instinctively shielded Qin Shangcheng, taking the dart herself and sustaining an injury. It was then revealed that the "Villa Master" was actually Jin Fu in disguise. A battle ensued with Jin Fu and his men.

After a fierce fight, Jin Fu was subdued, but rather than be captured, he bit his tongue and committed suicide. Recognizing Tang Chudie needed immediate medical attention, the group quickly decided to relocate to a safer place for her treatment. Jin Yiwen suggested a suitable location, and they promptly set off. They brought the injured Tang Chudie to a room. Qin Shangcheng dispatched Jin Yiwen to purchase specific medicinal herbs, and Hua Rong accompanied him.

He then instructed Ye Chen, Dayou, and Zhang Xian to guard the room, ensuring no one disturbed them. Inside, Qin Shangcheng personally attended to Tang Chudie, using his internal energy to extract the poisoned dart. Feeling remorseful for her injury, he apologized for his carelessness. Tang Chudie, however, assured him there was no need for guilt, explaining that she had merely repaid the debt of gratitude she owed him for saving her three years prior.

She then spoke of her admiration for him, promising to practice her skills to better protect herself. Tang Chudie confessed her long-held feelings for Qin Shangcheng, admitting she knew his heart belonged to Hua Rong and that she couldn't compare to her, yet she vowed not to give up on pursuing him. Qin Shangcheng, deeply appreciative of her sacrifice, gently but firmly reiterated that Hua Rong was the only woman he loved.

Tang Chudie accepted this, saying her sole wish was to accompany him on his adventures and uphold justice. Qin Shangcheng then made an excuse to leave the room. Outside Tang Chudie's room, Hua Rong and Jin Yiwen had overheard the emotional exchange. Jin Yiwen asked Hua Rong if she was jealous of Tang Chudie. Hua Rong admitted she had been, but now felt undeserving of Qin Shangcheng, believing Tang Chudie was truly meant for him.

Jin Yiwen comforted her by comparing people to stars in the night sky, each unique with their own stories. He urged Hua Rong not to compare herself to anyone, emphasizing that Qin Shangcheng's feelings for her were "rock-solid and obvious to the sun and the moon." After Qin Shangcheng left Tang Chudie's room, he found a contemplative Hua Rong.

She confessed her feelings of inadequacy, stating that Tang Chudie's calm demeanor in danger, tactical understanding with him, and life-saving courage made her feel inferior in martial skills and experience. Hua Rong lamented that only a true heroine like Tang Chudie was worthy of him. Qin Shangcheng tenderly reassured her, reminding her of her own heroic deeds in Tianchu and her compassionate heart, which he valued more than martial skills or experience.

He told her that he didn't know why he loved her, but that her presence made him feel happy and lucky, and that no one in the world could ever replace her. Comforted by his words, Hua Rong leaned happily into his embrace. With Hua Rong's self-doubt resolved, Tang Chudie expressed her desire to return to Mengdie Mountain Villa immediately, believing her father would also return there if he had escaped.

Upon their arrival at the villa, an arrow flew in carrying a message: Qin Shangcheng was to go to the maple forest at Meng Mountain the next day at eight o'clock and exchange the white jade for Tang Feng, the Villa Master. In the meeting hall, everyone gathered to discuss their next move. Tang Chudie asked Qin Shangcheng for his plan. Some disciples suggested exchanging the white jade for the Villa Master, prioritizing his life.

Hua Rong, however, strongly opposed this, explaining that Jin Duoxiong was not merely a prince but potentially the true leader of the Black Dragon gang, and his ultimate goal was to acquire the treasure of the previous dynasty using the white jade. She warned that if he succeeded, it would plunge the entire world into chaos. Tang Chudie proposed exchanging the real white jade to rescue her father, and then devising a plan to seize it back on the spot.

Qin Shangcheng agreed this was the most feasible option. But Hua Rong vehemently disagreed, arguing that once Jin Duoxiong possessed both white jades and his cunning schemes, retrieving them would be incredibly difficult. Qin Shangcheng tried to reassure her, confident he could prevent Jin Duoxiong from obtaining the treasure even if he temporarily held the jades, and stressed that rescuing Villa Master Tang was paramount.

Hua Rong accused him of selfishness, claiming his eagerness was motivated by repaying Tang Chudie's life-saving act and avenging his foster father, disregarding the safety of thousands of residents. Qin Shangcheng countered that he would indeed retrieve the white jade personally after the exchange. Feeling betrayed and disappointed by his perceived overconfidence, Hua Rong stormed out, vowing that she would never let the white jade fall into Jin Duoxiong's hands.

Ignoring Qin Shangcheng's plan, Hua Rong secretly took the white jade and went alone into the wilderness, intending to rescue Tang Villa Master herself. There, she was ambushed and captured by Yanfei, Ye Chen's junior brother, who then revealed himself as Jin Duoxiong's spy within Mengdie Mountain Villa. Yanfei boasted that he would deliver Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng's lady, to Jin Duoxiong for a reward.

However, Hua Rong burst into laughter, declaring that Yanfei had unwittingly led her directly to Jin Duoxiong's headquarters. At that moment, Qin Shangcheng appeared, holding his sword to Yanfei's neck. He revealed that Jin Yiwen had already informed them of Yanfei's true identity. Their earlier heated argument had been a deliberate act, a ruse to trick Yanfei into exposing himself and leading them to Jin Duoxiong's hidden camp.

With Yanfei captured, Hua Rong proposed a plan: Qin Shangcheng would set fire to the enemy's granary using fire crystal. This would draw out all the guarding soldiers, creating a diversion. While the guards were busy fighting the fire, Hua Rong would infiltrate the guarded tents to rescue Tang Villa Master, who she was certain would be held there. Qin Shangcheng agreed, and they proceeded with the daring rescue mission.

Episode 23 Recap

Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng, having successfully rescued the Villa Master, found themselves relentlessly pursued. The Villa Master, weakened and exhausted, could barely keep up. As they sought refuge in a dry well, the Villa Master inadvertently triggered a hidden mechanism, revealing a concealed stone gate. Qin Shangcheng initially dismissed it as an ordinary tomb, but Hua Rong noticed a peculiar symbol. Keeping his thoughts to himself, Qin Shangcheng quickly urged them to find an exit.

They were fortunate to discover a secret passage leading out from beneath the well. Qin Shangcheng speculated that Jin Fu and his men were still searching the vicinity, and he expressed concern for Tang Chudie, with whom they had lost contact. Soon after, Tang Chudie and Qian Dayou, with their group, located Qin Shangcheng and the others. Tang Chudie rushed to her father, the Villa Master, to check on him, who assured her he was unharmed.

As they prepared to return, Hua Rong suddenly collapsed, appearing tired and dizzy. Her companions attributed it to her excitement, and they decided to head back for a meal. Meanwhile, the Prince, Jin Duoxiong, chastised his old servant, Yechen, for his failure, threatening to kill him if he hadn't served him for ten years. Yechen offered to lead an immediate attack on Mengdie Villa, but Jin Duoxiong dismissed the idea, citing the Villa's formidable defenses.

Instead, he revealed a new plan: he would feign a retreat to make Qin Shangcheng lower his guard, giving Yechen the opportunity to act as a spy and uncover their weaknesses. Jin Duoxiong handed Yechen a small bottle, promising him Mengdie Villa and Tang Chudie if he succeeded. Yechen vowed to do his best. Back at Mengdie Villa, Qin Shangcheng stayed by Hua Rong's side as she recovered from her faint.

When she awoke, she was touched to learn he had watched over her for twenty-four hours without rest. Qin Shangcheng playfully demanded a kiss before he would leave to get her food. Their tender moment was interrupted by Tang Chudie, who entered with a gift for the couple: a pair of Dragon and Phoenix cups, crafted by Master Lu from "jue suede," known for cooling water.

Tang Chudie expressed her sincere wishes for their sweet marriage and thanked them for risking their lives to save her father. Hua Rong, now feeling a bond with Tang Chudie, chose the Dragon cup and then took several sips of water from it. Tang Chudie apologized for her past behavior, admitting she now understood Qin Shangcheng's unwavering love for Hua Rong. Hua Rong, feeling a sense of happiness and peace, accepted Tang Chudie's friendship.

Later, Qin Shangcheng asked the Villa Master why his adoptive father had never mentioned him. The Villa Master revealed his deepest regret: fifteen years prior, he and Qin Ba Tian, sworn brothers and pirates, discovered a beached official ship containing two white jade pieces that held a treasure map from a previous dynasty. The Villa Master wanted to retrieve the treasure, but Qin Ba Tian refused, fearing it would plunge the world into chaos.

Unable to agree, they each took one jade and went their separate ways. Eight years ago, the Villa Master learned that Qin Ba Tian had been killed by the Black Dragon Gang while protecting his jade. This revelation prompted him to establish Mengdie Villa, living in seclusion and concealing his identity. His investigations later revealed the Black Dragon Gang's leader to be Jin Duoxiong, the Prince of Wanjiang nation, who was determined to obtain the treasure and conquer the world.

The Villa Master stressed the urgency of stopping Jin Duoxiong from acquiring the white jades. Qin Shangcheng vowed to avenge his adoptive father and protect the world. News then arrived that Jin Duoxiong's forces had retreated. Yechen feigned shame over the incident involving Yanfei, and Tang Chudie comforted him, reassuring him that it was not entirely his fault for Yanfei's betrayal. Qian Dayou reminded Qin Shangcheng of the importance of safeguarding the white jades.

As they discussed the situation, Hua Rong suddenly fainted again. Yechen's expression subtly betrayed his secret delight. The doctor, examining Hua Rong, initially mistook her symptoms for pregnancy, but quickly corrected himself, confirming she was severely poisoned. He explained that the potent poison, known as "DMY," mimicked pregnancy and would slowly consume her, killing her within three days if an antidote wasn't found.

Qin Shangcheng, realizing he had shared food and drink with Hua Rong without ill effects, suddenly suspected the Dragon cup. Qian Dayou tested the water with a silver needle, which showed no impurity, but when the water was poured into the "cold" Dragon cup, it became highly toxic. Qin Shangcheng demanded an explanation from Tang Chudie, who was equally baffled, stating that Yechen had personally selected the cups. They then discovered Yechen had already fled.

Qin Shangcheng furiously pursued Yechen, catching and beating him. Yechen confessed that he had intended to poison Qin Shangcheng, not Hua Rong, to acquire the white jade. He claimed that the DMY poison, invented by Xuanjizi, had no known antidote and that anyone afflicted would surely die.

Qin Shangcheng offered Yechen a final chance to provide the antidote, but Yechen defiantly refused, stating that he wouldn't live long either and that he only sought revenge against Qin Shangcheng for taking Tang Chudie from him. With a final declaration of his lingering affection for Tang Chudie and a wish to meet her in the next life, Yechen leaped off a cliff to his death, leaving Qin Shangcheng without an antidote.

Watching over the unconscious Hua Rong, Qin Shangcheng was consumed by regret, recalling their vows and blaming himself for failing to protect her, feeling the ominous premonition of the golden lock had come true. Elsewhere, Jin Duoxiong received news of Yechen's failure but ordered his men to observe the situation as Hua Rong was still poisoned. Qin Shangcheng, determined to find Jin Duoxiong, was joined by Jin Yiwen, who insisted on accompanying him.

However, the Villa Master stopped them, revealing he had found a way to save Hua Rong. He explained that Xuanjizi, the creator of DMY, was also the designer of a vast treasury. Based on ancient texts, the Villa Master theorized that the antidote might be hidden within this treasury, which was also Xuanjizi's memorial grave.

However, he noted that the other half of the white jade was still in Jin Duoxiong's possession, making access to the treasury difficult and the existence of the antidote uncertain. The Villa Master then presented a second, more drastic method: a life-for-life exchange. A person with profound inner force could draw the poison from Hua Rong, but the poison would then infect them. Without hesitation, Qin Shangcheng volunteered.

Qian Dayou and Jin Yiwen pleaded with him to reconsider, suggesting they first search for the treasury, arguing that Hua Rong would be devastated if he died. Qin Shangcheng adamantly refused, declaring he could not risk Hua Rong's life by waiting, nor could he allow the world to descend into chaos by opening the treasury. His decision was final.

With the Villa Master and Tang Chudie assisting, Qin Shangcheng began the perilous process of drawing the poison from Hua Rong, while Jin Yiwen and Qian Dayou stood guard outside. The Villa Master thanked Qin Shangcheng for keeping the true nature of the transfer a secret, warning him of the fatal risks. Qin Shangcheng simply reiterated his unwavering decision. Hua Rong's life was saved, the poison having been successfully expelled from her body.

However, the poison now resided within Qin Shangcheng. Knowing his own life was now short, Qin Shangcheng made a shocking decision: he proposed to Tang Chudie, intending to stage a fake marriage to make Hua Rong forget him and move on. As Qin Shangcheng and Tang Chudie donned their wedding attire, a bewildered and enraged Jin Yiwen confronted Qin Shangcheng.

Jin Yiwen accused him of abandoning Hua Rong, reminding him of his past promises to let Jin Yiwen pursue her once he left Hua Rong. Qin Shangcheng coldly replied that this was Jin Yiwen's chance, maintaining his facade that he had grown tired of Hua Rong and now loved Tang Chudie, whom he described as mild, thoughtful, and kind. Jin Yiwen, distraught, declared that Qin Shangcheng would be punished for his actions.

When Hua Rong finally awoke, she found Mengdie Villa adorned for a celebration. Two servants confirmed that it was the day of Tang Chudie and Qin Shangcheng's wedding. Distraught, Hua Rong first confronted Tang Chudie, then sought out Qin Shangcheng. He maintained his deceit, telling her he no longer loved her and had fallen for Tang Chudie. Hua Rong, refusing to believe him, threw the golden lock he had once given her to the ground and stormed away. Qin Shangcheng picked up the golden lock, clutching it tightly as a cough wracked his body, and a stream of blood dripped onto the golden keepsake.

Episode 24 (Ending) Recap

Hua Rong wandered aimlessly through the streets, her heart heavy with despair. She passed by a stall selling Yun He Hero dolls, and the vendor, recalling her previous large purchases, offered her one for free, saying, "Here you go, take it. Come again when you are free." Hua Rong accepted the doll, looked at it briefly, and then released her grip, allowing it to shatter on the ground.

She then found herself at a theater, where memories of shared moments with Qin Shangcheng flooded her mind, making her weep bitterly. She reminisced about his vows, "Expect me to come back. Write down your name. A marriage contract. I gallop after you thousands of miles away. Just to look at your flawless skin." She also heard a song about eternal love, an infatuated heart, and the best couple in the world, which only deepened her sorrow.

Hua Rong remained on the bridge from day until night, letting the rain soak her as she cried out loud. Qin Shangcheng watched her from a distance, his heart aching. He, too, could not hold back his tears, whispering "Ronger" and expressing how much he missed her. He sang about eternal love that would never end, intertwining fingers, and a fluttering butterfly, echoing the rain that "doesn't stop." He desperately wished for her to forget him.

Jin Yiwen and Wan Wan soon arrived at the bridge, calling out to her, "Sister Rong. Let's go back." They led Hua Rong home. Back in her room, Jin Yiwen and Wan Wan tried to comfort Hua Rong. Wan Wan offered her some porridge, saying, "Sister Rong. Drink a little." Jin Yiwen tried to explain, "Brother Qin doesn't want to explain. But in my understanding of him there's no way he will leave you like this.

There must be a reason why he did this." Wan Wan added, "Take some medicine firstly." However, Hua Rong was listless and unresponsive, simply stating, "I'm tired. We may talk about it tomorrow." Jin Yiwen and Wan Wan left her to rest, telling her, "Take a good rest. We'll see you tomorrow." That night, as Hua Rong slept, Qin Shangcheng quietly entered her room and sat by her bed. He longed to touch her face, but refrained.

In her sleep, Hua Rong murmured his name, calling out, "Qin Shangcheng. Don't go. Don't leave me." She instinctively grasped his hand. Qin Shangcheng gently kissed her forehead, whispering, "Ronger. This may be the last time I call you that. You must live well in the future. And forget about me," expressing his deep sorrow. Later, Tang Mengdie confronted Qin Shangcheng, urging him to tell Hua Rong the truth, especially since he missed her so much.

Qin Shangcheng, however, remained firm. He explained he knew Hua Rong too well; if she learned the truth about his poisoning, she would relentlessly pursue the treasure to find an antidote, putting herself in grave danger. Tang Mengdie warned him that Hua Rong would hate him if she thought he died, but Qin Shangcheng was resolute, believing Hua Rong would soon forget him and find happiness.

Tang Mengdie argued that she would prefer to know the truth and support her loved one no matter the decision, saying Hua Rong would likely feel the same. Qin Shangcheng abruptly ended the conversation, stating he had made up his mind. The next morning, Hua Rong awoke and immediately noticed the quilt covering her and the bed curtains drawn around her. She recognized these small details, realizing that only Qin Shangcheng knew she disliked light when she slept.

She excitedly concluded, "That's him. He has been here." Convinced he still loved her, she exclaimed, "He won't betray me. I'm going to find him!" and rushed out of bed. Just then, Tang Mengdie arrived. Hua Rong questioned her presence, and Tang Mengdie clarified, "I come to tell you, I'm not married to Brother Qin. That's the whole story." Hua Rong then understood that she had misunderstood Qin Shangcheng, realizing he had feigned indifference to protect her.

Seeing his pitiful state, Hua Rong declared, "I want to find him. I won't let him die. Never." Tang Mengdie proposed a plan: "If we find two pieces of white jade, go to the treasury and find the antidote. He can be saved." Hua Rong agreed, suggesting, "Jin Duoxiong's piece of white jade should be in the Jin palace," while Tang Mengdie took charge of retrieving Qin Shangcheng's piece. They decided to split up.

Tang Mengdie, however, opted to stay at Mengdie Villa to avoid Qin Shangcheng's suspicion and to keep an eye on him, while Jin Yiwen joined Hua Rong, assuring Wan Wan, who expressed concern about the rough road ahead, that he would be careful. Jin Yiwen, Hua Rong, and their companions successfully infiltrated Jin Duoxiong's mansion and retrieved the other half of the white jade. The process was surprisingly smooth. Unbeknownst to them, Jin Duoxiong had intentionally allowed the theft.

He had been watching their every move, planning for Hua Rong to lead him to the treasure. He smugly declared, "The fish has taken the bait. Qin Shangcheng is strongly poisoned. Hua Rong will go to the treasury to find the antidote for sure. With her to lead the way, we can reap the rewards easily." Back at Mengdie Villa, Tang Mengdie, concerned about Qin Shangcheng's continued unhappiness, prepared to combine the white jade pieces.

She and Hua Rong examined the two pieces, at first wondering if one was fake, then realizing both were real. Once combined, a complete map was revealed on the table. Hua Rong immediately recognized the pattern from a secret passage in a dry well she had discovered with Qin Shangcheng previously. Jin Yiwen noted the mysterious symbol on the map, suggesting it wasn't an ordinary grave. Convinced the treasure was there, Hua Rong decided they must go immediately.

Jin Yiwen volunteered to accompany her, while Tang Mengdie stayed behind to avoid arousing Qin Shangcheng's suspicion and to keep an eye on him. Upon reaching the dry well, Jin Yiwen remarked on the unexpected location of the treasure in such an "nameless mountain." Hua Rong confirmed it was the place where she and Qin Shangcheng had escaped an assassination from Jin Fu and were saved by Zhang Xian and Qian Dayou.

Jin Yiwen reassured her that they would find the antidote. They carefully examined the area, with Hua Rong pointing to the treasure entrance indicated on the map. Jin Yiwen observed that the stone door in the secret passage appeared to be the treasury's exit. Hua Rong noticed words inscribed on tablets near a strange statue of a local guardian god, whose outstretched hands seemed to be asking for something.

She deciphered the riddle, realizing that the first and last words of each sentence formed the phrase, "Give me the jade." Following this clue, they activated a mechanism, and the stone door opened, revealing a purple butterfly, which made Hua Rong immediately think of Qin Shangcheng and question his whereabouts. Suddenly, Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian appeared, their faces grim. Hua Rong desperately asked, "Where is Qin Shangcheng?" They reluctantly informed her, "He died because of the poison."

Hua Rong was devastated and refused to believe it, repeatedly demanding to know, "How could that happen? How could Qin Shangcheng die?" Just then, Jin Duoxiong and his men emerged, surrounding them. Jin Duoxiong gloated, thanking Hua Rong for unknowingly leading him to the treasure. Jin Yiwen confronted his brother, accusing him of treachery, but Jin Duoxiong dismissed his brotherly affection, asserting that Jin Yiwen's continued opposition and alliance with Qin Shangcheng left him no choice.

Hua Rong defiantly proclaimed she would not let Jin Duoxiong succeed, while Qin Shangcheng's men, enraged by their boss's supposed death, vowed revenge. Jin Duoxiong, unconcerned, ordered his men to capture them all, stating he would personally finish them off after securing the treasure. As evening fell, Jin Duoxiong had Hua Rong and the others tied to pillars.

He raised a toast to his jubilant men, declaring that with the treasure now in his possession, it was time to "rule the world." His soldiers cheered in unison, echoing his ambition. Jin Duoxiong then approached Hua Rong, boasting about his triumph and proposing a toast to her for her unwitting help. Hua Rong, however, remained defiant, refusing to drink and retorting that the wages of sin were death.

As Jin Duoxiong, angered by her defiance, moved to strike her, a voice from behind exclaimed, "Stop, brother!" Unexpectedly, Qin Shangcheng burst forth from one of the treasure chests, grabbing Jin Duoxiong. Jin Duoxiong, bewildered, questioned how Qin Shangcheng could be alive, having believed him dead from the poison. Qin Shangcheng, holding Jin Duoxiong captive, explained his elaborate deception. He had previously discovered the treasure's location and used the antidote found within to cure himself.

He then ordered Qian Dayou and Zhang Xian to secretly move most of the treasure through the dry well to another location. He had faked his death to lower Jin Duoxiong's guard, hiding himself and his pirate regiment within the remaining treasure chests to ambush him. Jin Duoxiong praised his cunning plan, admitting he had been outwitted.

Qin Shangcheng then revealed his true motive, stating he intended to kill Jin Duoxiong personally to avenge his adopted father, Qin Ba Tian, whom Jin Duoxiong had killed eight years prior. Jin Duoxiong challenged him to a fight, which Qin Shangcheng readily accepted. Hua Rong, overjoyed but also annoyed by Qin Shangcheng's deception, tearfully expressed her relief that he was alive, while Qin Shangcheng apologized profusely, vowing never to lie to her again.

Qin Shangcheng swiftly defeated Jin Duoxiong in their one-on-one combat, taking him into custody. Seeing their leader captured, Jin Duoxiong's remaining men immediately surrendered. The Black Dragon Gang was dismantled, and the treasure secured. Later, on a pirate ship, Qin Shangcheng, Hua Rong, and their friends celebrated their victory. Jin Yiwen announced that he and Wan Wan were officially together, receiving congratulations from everyone.

Qin Shangcheng then suggested that Zhang Xian and Xiaohui also get together, to which Zhang Xian expressed his gratitude. Qian Dayou, though, proudly stated he would find his own wife. As evening fell, Hua Rong and Qin Shangcheng shared a private moment. Hua Rong asked him about his plans for the treasure, and he replied, "All these will be used in aiding needy people."

He then retrieved the golden lock he had given her before, asking her to raise her hair so he could place it around her neck. He told her never to remove it without his permission. Recalling their last interrupted proposal, Qin Shangcheng reiterated, "Will you marry me, as Qin Shangcheng's wife?" He then declared the vast treasure to be her dowry. With a radiant smile, Hua Rong replied, "I do." The two shared a tender embrace and kissed, their journey full of twists and turns finally culminating in a promise of eternal love.