This Thriving Land Recap, Plot, Synopsis
This Thriving Land Synopsis
On the day of her wedding, Ning Xiuxiu, the daughter of the richest man in Tianni Temple Village, was kidnapped by bandits. Her father, Ning Xuexiang, was unwilling to sell his land to ransom her, so he married her sister to her childhood sweetheart, Fei Wendian. Resolute in her decision, Xiuxiu severed ties with her father and married a peasant named Feng Dajiao.
She learned to do farm work and gradually understood the importance of land to farmers. Inspired by revolutionary ideas from people like Du Chunlin, she used her knowledge to help her neighbors and led the village women in breaking free from feudal ideologies. Together with the villagers, she fought against bandits, resisted the Japanese, and supported the army. During those twenty tough but legendary years, Xiuxiu eventually reconciled with her father and realized her own self-worth.
This Thriving Land Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In the spring of 1986, an elderly Ning Xiuxiu, leaning on a cane, made her way to Turtle Hill. There, she lovingly cleaned a large ox-shaped stone, revered by the villagers as a heavenly relic. As she did so, her thoughts drifted back fifty years to the 4th day of the winter month in the 15th year of the Republic of China, December 8, 1926.
The calendar had marked it as an auspicious day, but Ning Xiuxiu remembered it vividly as the day of Major Snow, and her own wedding day to Fei Wendian, amidst a heavy snowfall. Both the Ning and Fei families were prominent landowners in Ox Temple Village, and both households buzzed with preparations for the grand wedding. Inside the Ning residence, Ning Xiuxiu’s sister-in-law, Lianye, helped her adorn herself in a vibrant red wedding gown.
Ning Xiuxiu’s mother beamed with pride at her beautiful daughter. She discreetly gave Ning Xiuxiu ten silver coins, her own personal savings, advising her that money was always good to have, and instructed her to keep it from her father to avoid an argument. Ning mother also emphasized the importance of learning household management from Fei Zuoshi, Fei Wendian’s sister-in-law, and showing her due respect, reminding Ning Xiuxiu that an elder sister-in-law was like a mother.
Ning Susu, Ning Xiuxiu’s younger sister, eagerly tried to taste the "concentric soup balls" prepared for the bride before she boarded the sedan, but her mother stopped her, saying it wasn't her wedding. Ning Xiuxiu had patiently waited three years for Fei Wendian to complete his studies and return for their marriage.
Meanwhile, at the Fei residence, Fei Zuoshi, who managed all family affairs since Fei Wendian's parents and elder brother had passed, dispatched servants to pick up Fei Wendian from the county inn. She then addressed the ancestral tablets in the family hall, vowing that once Ning Xiuxiu was welcomed into their home and bore offspring for the Fei family, she would fully entrust the family's management to Wendian.
However, the servants returned, reporting that Fei Wendian had left the inn before dawn. Fei Zuoshi speculated he might have taken a shortcut to hurry home and sent more servants to search all roads, large and small, even checking snow drifts. Back at the Ning house, Ning Xuexiang, Ning Xiuxiu’s father, meticulously inspected the wedding gifts from relatives and tenants, instructing his servant Kuangzi to log each item.
When Feng Si presented a packet of wedding pastries, he tried to persuade Ning Xuexiang to waive some of his interest payment. Ning Xuexiang, noticing the unusual lightness of the packet, opened it to find only a rock and some pastry crumbs. Enraged, he demanded Kuangzi bring Feng Si’s IOU, insisting on immediate repayment.
Feng Si, terrified and penniless, confessed he had to pawn his hoe just to afford half a box of pastry crumbs, as the shop wouldn’t sell less. Ning Xuexiang, however, remained unmoved, threatening to take his land if the debt wasn't settled. Ning Xiuxiu’s mother rushed in, urging Ning Xuexiang not to create a scene on such a joyous day. She dismissed Feng Si and instructed Kuangzi to prepare proper wedding pastries for the guests.
At Turtle Hill, Feng Dajiao, Feng Si's nephew and Feng Er's son, cleared snow from the Ox figure stone. Hearing children singing wedding songs, a pang of sadness filled him. He had harbored feelings for Ning Xiuxiu since childhood, but their love for Fei Wendian meant he had to bury his affections. Later, Ning Xuexiang ventured out with a dung basket to collect manure for his crops, even competing with a dog for a pile, drawing ridicule from villagers.
He loudly reminded tenants along the way to deliver their wedding pastries, suggesting they were being forgetful about his daughter's wedding. One tenant resignedly decided to pawn his hoe to buy them. Feng Er, Feng Dajiao's father, scoffed at the idea of sending pastries to Ning Xuexiang, asserting his independence as a landowner.
An unexpected carriage arrived at the Ning residence, carrying two women, an older woman named Ma Gu and a younger one named Miao Chi, who claimed to be from Gourd Glen and relatives of Zhang Guanli. They presented a box of wedding pastries from Huaxinzhai in the provincial city, explaining they owed Ning Xuexiang money and wanted to congratulate the family on Ning Xiuxiu’s wedding.
They gushed about Ning Xiuxiu's beauty, comparing her to a fairy, and insisted on seeing her. Ning Xiuxiu's mother, charmed, asked Mrs. Li, an old servant, to escort them. Inside Ning Xiuxiu's room, Ning Susu jokingly complained to Ning Xiuxiu about her bangs, prompting Ning Xiuxiu to playfully tease her back. As the two women entered, they revealed their true identities as bandits from Chicken Ridge.
When Ning Susu tried to cry out, Ma Gu shoved her aside, and without a word, rendered Ning Xiuxiu unconscious before carrying her away. Lianye, witnessing the abduction from outside, screamed for help. Ning Xiuxiu's mother and the servants rushed out, but Ma Gu fired a warning shot, scattering them. The two female bandits quickly loaded Ning Xiuxiu into a waiting carriage.
Ning Susu and others tried to give chase but could only watch helplessly as Ning Xiuxiu was taken away. Ning Second Uncle, the village headman, quickly arrived with his son and other villagers to pursue the bandits. However, Second Boss Hu San of Chicken Ridge intercepted them with his men. Hu San informed Ning Second Uncle that his boss, Big Nose Du, demanded a ransom of five thousand silver dollars by midnight.
He warned that if the "quick ransom" (unmarried woman needing immediate rescue) was not paid by then, he would "eat her up," implying rape. Ning Second Uncle, unable to authorize such a large sum, offered his only son in exchange for Ning Xiuxiu, but Hu San flatly refused. Returning home with his dung basket, Ning Xuexiang learned the devastating news of Ning Xiuxiu’s kidnapping.
Ning Xiuxiu’s mother was distraught, emphasizing that if their daughter spent a single night in a bandit's lair, her reputation would be irrevocably ruined, regardless of her innocence, and the Fei family would not accept her. However, Ning Xuexiang did not have five thousand silver dollars readily available. Seeing the family's predicament, Feng Er immediately rushed home to gather his money, hoping to buy Ning Xuexiang's land at a bargain price.
Fei Zuoshi, hearing the news of Ning Xiuxiu’s kidnapping while still awaiting Fei Wendian's return, promptly went to the Ning household. Remaining composed, she urged Ning Xuexiang to pay the ransom, reiterating the dire consequences if Ning Xiuxiu spent the night at Chicken Ridge. She stressed that Fei Wendian's return would be in vain if Ning Xiuxiu's reputation was tarnished. Ning Xuexiang, torn between his land and his daughter's honor, remained hesitant, struggling with the decision.
Fourth Uncle offered some money and suggested mortgaging land deeds and even bringing grain to the mountain as a sign of sincerity, but Ning Xuexiang worried about incurring more debt or being kidnapped himself. Fei Zuoshi then declared she would return home to await news, implying a subtle withdrawal of support and a clear rejection of the marriage if the situation escalated.
At the bandit lair, Ning Xiuxiu bravely tried to reason with Second Boss Hu San, asking to see Big Nose Du and promising to repay the ransom if they released her. Hu San scoffed, saying her IOU was useless, and threatened that if her father didn't pay, she would become "the bride of everyone in the stockade." He ordered his men to keep a close watch on her, explicitly forbidding anyone from taking advantage of her before he did.
Meanwhile, Ning Kejin, Ning Xiuxiu’s brother, arrived at the Ning residence. Learning of his sister's abduction, he furiously declared his intention to seek out Chairman Chu of the Qingqi Society and lead all the Security Force members to attack Chicken Ridge. Ning Second Uncle and Fei Zuoshi doubted Chairman Chu would intervene, as he and Big Nose Du maintained a cautious distance.
Feng Er then returned to the Ning residence, offering money to buy Ning Xuexiang’s fifteen mu of "lakebed mud" land, which Feng Er falsely claimed was poor quality, trying to take advantage of the situation. Ning Xuexiang, furious at Feng Er's opportunism and calling him a "greedy wolf," violently ejected him, asserting that his land was his "blood, flesh, and life."
Other villagers, including Xueshi (also known as Mole Cricket), the village record keeper, also approached Ning Xuexiang, eager to draft land deeds and buy land, believing he would finally sell. Ning Xuexiang refused to sell his land and angrily ejected them. At the Fei residence, Fei Wendian finally returned, explaining that heavy snow had forced him to turn back from his shortcut. Fei Zuoshi quickly covered up Ning Xiuxiu’s kidnapping, ensuring he knew nothing.
Fei Wendian was touched by his sister-in-law's meticulous wedding preparations and went to change into his wedding attire. Unaware of the true situation, Fei Wendian expressed his delight at the festive atmosphere. Back at his home, Feng Er complained to his wife about Ning Xuexiang's refusal to sell land, despite his daughter being kidnapped. Their son, Feng Dajiao, upon hearing about Ning Xiuxiu's kidnapping, immediately rushed to the Ning house, distraught. The Ning family was in crisis.
Lianye cried hysterically, fearing for Ning Kejin's safety as he prepared to go to the mountain alone since Chairman Chu refused to help. Ning Xiuxiu's mother, desperate, threatened to go to the bandit lair herself and die with Ning Xiuxiu if Ning Xuexiang didn't act. Faced with his wife's desperate plea and the dual threat to both his children, Ning Xuexiang reluctantly agreed to sell the land and went to retrieve his land deeds box.
In the bandit camp, as dusk approached, the bandits grew impatient. They openly wondered if Miser Ning would really abandon his daughter. Some of them, including a bandit named Da Zong, started talking about taking turns with Ning Xiuxiu if no ransom arrived, with one even asking to be allowed to go first after the Second Boss was finished.
Episode 2 Recap
Fei Wendian excitedly returned home through heavy snow, eager for his wedding. However, his sister-in-law, Fei Zuoshi, concealed the fact that his bride, Ning Xiuxiu, had been kidnapped by bandits. Despite her efforts to find excuses for the absence of guests, Fei Wendian sensed something was amiss. Fei Zuoshi had sent Steward Liu with the betrothal gift list from three years ago to Ning Xuexiang, demanding a definite answer.
Fei Wendian visited the ancestral hall, praying to his ancestors for the safety of his sister-in-law and the entire family. Fei Zuoshi, witnessing his sincere devotion, felt touched. Steward Liu delivered the betrothal gift list to Ning Xuexiang, who understood it as Fei Zuoshi contemplating breaking off the engagement. Ning Xuexiang firmly promised that he would send a pure and spotless Ning Xiuxiu to the Fei family before midnight. Steward Liu rushed back to report the news.
Fei Zuoshi then instructed her servant, Qing, to keep a close eye on Fei Wendian and ensure he did not learn about Ning Xiuxiu's kidnapping. Meanwhile, Ning Xuexiang was reluctant to sell his precious land. As night fell, his wife, anxious, urged him to make a decision, bringing their younger daughter Ning Susu with her. Distraught, Ning Xuexiang forced them out of the room, still clinging to the land deeds.
At the bandit's lair, Ning Xiuxiu used her hairpin to bribe her guard for a bowl of water, but the guard only took the hairpin and left her thirsty. As it grew dark and no guests arrived, Fei Wendian grew increasingly suspicious. He confronted Qing and Steward Liu, pressing them for answers. Fei Zuoshi had no choice but to reveal that Ning Xiuxiu had been kidnapped. Fei Wendian, realizing his sister-in-law had hidden the truth, was enraged.
Fei Zuoshi then revealed that Big Nose Du of Chicken Ridge was responsible. Without a word, Fei Wendian grabbed a knife and stormed out. Fei Zuoshi quickly followed him in a carriage, catching up and trying to reason with him. She explained that the bandits only wanted ransom and would not harm Ning Xiuxiu, urging him to return home. Reluctantly, Fei Wendian agreed.
At Chicken Ridge, Big Nose Du and Hu San discussed the ransom, fearing the deal might fall through. Big Nose Du warned Hu San to be on his best behavior as an important guest, Du Chunlin, was expected. A scout then reported that armed men were approaching the mountain. Hu San, the Second Boss, immediately led his men to intercept them, while Feng Dajiao stealthily made his way up the mountain from another route, carefully observing the terrain.
Hu San and his men successfully repelled Ning Kejin's rescue attempt, driving him back down the mountain. Hu San then returned to Ning Xiuxiu's captivity, attempting to assault her, but he was interrupted by Big Nose Du’s summons to meet the important guest. Hu San reluctantly left Ning Xiuxiu. Meanwhile, Ning Xiuxiu tried to use the water bowl to cut her ropes, but her guard discovered her attempt and stopped her.
Ning Kejin rushed home to inform Ning Xuexiang of his failed rescue attempt and urged him to sell the land to ransom Ning Xiuxiu. Ning Xuexiang refused, clinging to the land deeds. When Ning mother tried to seize the deeds, Ning Xuexiang pushed her, causing her to hit her head on a table and bleed. Ning Xuexiang, despite his actions, then sent Ning Kejin to find a doctor for his mother.
Ning Kejin knelt, begging his father to sell the land and save Ning Xiuxiu, offering to give up the family inheritance. However, Ning Xuexiang remained unmoved, convinced that the bandits and Fei Zuoshi were conspiring to seize his land, believing he only needed to hold out until morning. Later, one of the bandits, Lao Jiu, intoxicated, attempted to assault Ning Xiuxiu. Fortunately, Second Brother Guo, a friend of Ning Kejin, arrived in time.
He knocked Lao Jiu unconscious and helped Ning Xiuxiu change into Lao Jiu's clothes to escape, instructing her to keep his assistance a secret for his and his mother's safety. Feng Dajiao, having learned Ning Xiuxiu's location from a bandit, then arrived and rescued her. Du Chunlin, a leader of the peasant army, arrived at the mountain stronghold. He urged Big Nose Du to join the self-defense army, promising that past transgressions would be forgiven.
However, Big Nose Du was wary of being exploited and then abandoned. Hu San, becoming aggressive and disrespectful, talked down Du Chunlin and his group, causing a tense atmosphere. Big Nose Du intervened, attempting to de-escalate the situation by inviting them for a drink, but Du Chunlin declined, citing the need to reach the next town, and promptly left. Feng Dajiao, carrying Ning Xiuxiu, fled down the mountain.
Ning Xiuxiu, exhausted, expressed her gratitude to Feng Dajiao, noting that he, not her father, had come to save her. She also asked if her father had indeed refused to sell the land for her ransom. Later, Hu San pursued Du Chunlin, ambushing and killing several of his men, and confiscating three guns. He returned to the stronghold, boasting to Big Nose Du about his actions.
Big Nose Du was furious, reprimanding Hu San for killing Du Chunlin, who was his childhood friend with two powerful official brothers. Big Nose Du then punished Hu San by forbidding him from leaving the mountain for a month. Fei Wendian, anxious about Ning Xiuxiu's delayed arrival, refused to eat or drink, determined to bring her home himself. Fei Zuoshi agreed to accompany him to the Ning family's residence.
Meanwhile, Hu San discovered Ning Xiuxiu had escaped and was distraught, realizing that 5,000 silver dollars had been lost, but Big Nose Du's punishment prevented him from pursuing her. Fei Zuoshi and Fei Wendian arrived at the Ning family's home, where they saw Ning Xuexiang standing by a wedding carriage with dowry at the entrance. Ning Xuexiang reiterated his promise to deliver a pure and spotless bride to the Fei family before midnight.
Fei Zuoshi immediately realized that the bride was Ning Susu, not Ning Xiuxiu. Despite the deception, to preserve the Fei family's reputation and ensure a wedding with an "innocent" bride, she decided to proceed with the marriage. She hurried Fei Wendian back home to prepare for the wedding, instructing a servant to invite all relatives and neighbors, informing them that the bride would arrive before midnight.
As relatives and friends gathered, Fei Zuoshi helped Fei Wendian change into his red wedding attire, repeatedly instructing him to follow her lead for the wedding to be a success. Fei Wendian promised to obey. The Ning family's procession arrived with gongs and drums. Fei Zuoshi personally welcomed the bride and led her into the new room.
Fei Wendian and the bride performed the wedding rituals amidst the blessings of family and friends, then paid respects and offered tea to Fei Zuoshi. Fei Zuoshi remained anxious until she saw Fei Wendian and the bride enter the bridal chamber. She then sent Fei Wendian to entertain the guests. Once alone with the bride, Fei Zuoshi confirmed her suspicion: it was indeed Ning Susu. Ning Susu expressed gratitude to Fei Zuoshi for not exposing her publicly.
She explained that her father had arranged for her to marry in place of her sister, promising to swap them back once Ning Xiuxiu was rescued. Fei Zuoshi then offered Ning Susu some refreshments and instructed her to keep her identity a secret from everyone, including Fei Wendian, emphasizing that revealing the truth would hinder her sister's rescue.
Episode 3 Recap
On the day of Ning Xiuxiu’s wedding, she was kidnapped by bandits, who demanded a ransom. Unwilling to sell his land to save her, Ning Xuexiang sent his second daughter, Ning Susu, to replace Ning Xiuxiu as the bride. Fei Zuoshi, worried about the deception, ordered Beard Liu to guard the door of the bridal chamber, allowing no one inside. She then had Fei Wendian toast every guest, and he quickly became heavily intoxicated.
As Fei Wendian stumbled into the bridal chamber, he collapsed on the bed and fell asleep. Ning Susu was so scared she turned her face away, not daring to make a sound. Fei Zuoshi reassured Ning Susu, telling her to sleep soundly and that everything would be alright after this night. Meanwhile, Feng Dajiao had successfully rescued Ning Xiuxiu alone from Chicken Ridge.
As they made their way back, exhausted, Ning Xiuxiu tried to offer Feng Dajiao money, but he refused, emphasizing that he did not save her for any reward. He urged her to keep the rescue a secret to protect her reputation and her future with Fei Wendian, stating that “the less said, the less trouble.” As Hu San’s men approached, Feng Dajiao bravely created a diversion, telling Ning Xiuxiu to hide while he lured the bandits away.
After evading the chase, Feng Dajiao discovered a severely wounded Du Chunlin, bleeding profusely. Du Chunlin, insistent on reaching the county hospital immediately, was quickly transported by Feng Dajiao on a makeshift sled, as Feng Dajiao assumed Ning Xiuxiu had safely made it back to the village. Ning Xiuxiu arrived home at dawn, physically and emotionally drained. Her mother was overjoyed to see her but quickly realized the depth of her daughter’s anguish.
Ning Xiuxiu, upon finding her dowry gone, believed the marriage was off and declared her intention to go to the Fei family immediately. It was then that her father, Ning Xuexiang, confessed that Ning Susu had taken her place as the bride. Enraged by her father’s refusal to ransom her and his willingness to sacrifice her sister, Ning Xiuxiu screamed at him and ran out of the house, proclaiming that Ning Xuexiang was no longer her father.
Fei Zuoshi, having spent a sleepless night worrying about Fei Wendian discovering Ning Susu's true identity, was unexpectedly confronted by Ning Xiuxiu at the Fei residence, demanding to reclaim her rightful place. Fei Zuoshi sternly informed her that according to Fei family customs, a kidnapped bride not returned by midnight could not enter their home. She further stated that Ning Susu and Fei Wendian had already completed the wedding rites and consummated the marriage.
When Ning Xiuxiu tried to confront Fei Wendian, Fei Zuoshi blocked her, even inviting her to see Fei Wendian and Ning Susu together in the bridal chamber to underscore her point. To definitively end the matter, Fei Zuoshi produced a bloody white handkerchief, claiming it as proof of Ning Susu’s purity and the marriage’s consummation, though it was in fact her own blood from a finger prick. Heartbroken and with nowhere else to turn, Ning Xiuxiu left the Fei family.
Overwhelmed by despair and the broken promises of her childhood sweetheart, Ning Xiuxiu stumbled aimlessly through the village. She eventually collapsed near the Ox figure stone on Turtle Hill, succumbing to profound exhaustion and emotional anguish. A villager, Silly Tiao, discovered her unconscious and, mistaking her for dead, ran in a panic to Tietou. Tietou then rushed to Turtle Hill and brought the unconscious Ning Xiuxiu back to her home.
Back at the Ning home, Ning Xiuxiu finally regained consciousness but lay in bed, consumed by bitterness, refusing all food and drink. She angrily accused her father, Ning Xuexiang, of not selling his land to rescue her. Ning Xuexiang, concerned about her purity, asked if she had been defiled by the bandits. Ning Xiuxiu, in her bitterness, lied and claimed she had been repeatedly assaulted by the bandits. Ning Mother was heartbroken by her daughter's suffering.
Ning Kejin, Ning Xiuxiu's brother, overheard this and declared his intention to fight the bandits, but Ning Xuexiang stopped him and kicked Tietou out of the courtyard. The news of Ning Xiuxiu's alleged defilement spread rapidly through the village, fueled by Tietou's recounting to curious villagers. People like Humpback Guo openly criticized Ning Xuexiang's perceived greed. Meanwhile, at the Fei residence, Fei Wendian woke up, bewildered to find Ning Susu, not Ning Xiuxiu, by his side.
He frantically called for Fei Zuoshi. Ning Susu tearfully explained that Ning Xuexiang had forced her into the bridal sedan to buy time for Ning Xiuxiu’s rescue, with the promise that she would be replaced once Xiuxiu returned. Fei Wendian, distraught, immediately declared his intention to find Ning Xiuxiu, and Ning Susu expressed her desire to return home.
However, Fei Zuoshi, who had already been informed by Beard Liu about the rampant village gossip of Ning Xiuxiu's defilement, vehemently forbade them from leaving. She asserted that their appearance in the village would irrevocably ruin Ning Xiuxiu’s already fragile reputation.
Despite Fei Wendian’s passionate insistence that Ning Xiuxiu was still his beloved, Fei Zuoshi sternly invoked the Fei family’s ancestral rule: they do not accept a remarried woman, especially one who has been defiled by bandits, making it impossible for Ning Xiuxiu to ever enter their home as his wife. Faced with his aunt’s unyielding stance, Fei Wendian reluctantly acquiesced.
While Feng Dajiao was at the county hospital, he later learned that Du Chunlin was a Communist Party member and had been taken away by his organization, leaving a thank-you note. Feng Dajiao reflected that he had unknowingly saved a significant figure who fought for the betterment of the poor. Back at the Ning home, Ning Xiuxiu continued to refuse all food and drink.
Her mother tried desperately to coax her, expressing deep sorrow and wishing she could endure her daughter’s suffering herself. During this time, Lianye, a servant, informed Ning Mother that a matchmaker had arrived. The matchmaker was proposing a marriage between Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao, Feng Er’s son. Ning Xuexiang was enraged by the proposal, viewing it as Feng Er’s exploitative attempt to profit from their family’s misfortune.
He furiously cursed the matchmaker and Feng Er, vowing that Ning Xiuxiu would never marry into such a family, even if it meant she remained unmarried for life. Despite her parents’ fierce objections and pleas, a weakened but resolute Ning Xiuxiu rose from her bed. She approached the matchmaker and, asserting her own agency, accepted the marriage proposal. She declared that she would leave with the matchmaker immediately, without a dowry, effectively severing ties with her family. When her distraught parents tried to physically stop her, Ning Xiuxiu threatened self-harm, forcing them to reluctantly concede to her desperate and defiant decision.
Episode 4 Recap
Upon learning of Ning Xiuxiu's intention to marry Feng Dajiao, Ning's mother worried about the Feng family's poverty and urged Ning Xuexiang to prepare a dowry. Ning Xuexiang reluctantly agreed to provide five mu of land, but Ning's mother insisted on fifteen mu of fertile land by the west well in the village, given the hardships Xiuxiu had endured.
Despite her mother's attempts to console her with news of the dowry, Ning Xiuxiu, before the villagers, made three solemn vows: from that moment, she would never step foot in the Ning family home again; she would never consume any food from the Ning family, nor take anything from them; and she declared Ning Xuexiang was no longer her father. After her pronouncements, she got into the wedding carriage.
Ning Susu rushed home, weeping upon discovering Xiuxiu was marrying Feng Dajiao, not Fei Wendian. She desperately tried to stop her sister, but Xiuxiu left without looking back. Fei Wendian also hurried to intercept the wedding carriage, demanding to know why Xiuxiu was marrying Feng Dajiao. The matchmaker pointed out that Fei Wendian was already married to Susu and questioned if he desired both sisters.
Xiuxiu then firmly told Fei Wendian that their relationship was over and asked him to let her go. Ning Susu, believing her father forced Xiuxiu into the marriage, confronted Ning Xuexiang, accusing him of lying about saving Xiuxiu and only caring about the betrothal gifts and land from the Fei family. She felt like they were valued less than dogs. Ning Xuexiang, in turn, forcibly sent Ning Susu back to the Fei Residence.
Fei Zuoshi arrived at the Ning home to find a weeping Ning Susu, who explained that her father had thrown her out. Fei Zuoshi consoled her, persuading her to return to the Fei Residence, promising her favorite dishes and asserting that her marriage with Wendian would be resolved quickly. Meanwhile, a messenger arrived at the Feng Residence, informing Feng Er that the bride was on her way. Feng Er was overjoyed and sent Tietou to find Feng Dajiao.
Feng Dajiao's mother, initially worried about the sudden marriage, quickly started cooking. Feng Si and his wife arrived to offer congratulations, subtly hinting at sharing in the dowry, emphasizing the closeness of brothers and implying Feng Er shouldn't forget them in his newfound prosperity. Feng Er rebuffed them, reminding them of their agreement to manage their own families.
When Ning Xiuxiu arrived, the matchmaker confirmed no dowry was brought, telling a dismayed Feng Er that he should be grateful to have married a wife without spending a penny, considering their family's humble circumstances. Feng Er, contemplating his financial loss, regretted having the matchmaker propose the marriage. Inside the dilapidated Feng home, Ning Xiuxiu felt a profound sense of desolation. She waited anxiously for Feng Dajiao, but he remained absent, intensifying her feelings of abandonment.
She acknowledged that leaving the Ning family, which had left her "deeply disappointed" and made her "heart go completely cold," was the right choice, but she felt this new place was not truly her home either, making her the "loneliest person in the world." She was overwhelmed by a "bone-chilling cold" feeling. Feng Dajiao's mother and Tietou's mother tried to comfort Xiuxiu, urging her to sit for good fortune.
When Xiuxiu requested water, Feng Dajiao's mother offered cold water, which Xiuxiu found too cold. She then offered hot noodle soup, saying Xiuxiu's fair complexion made their "shabby house brighter." Xiuxiu asked if Dajiao had returned, learning he had left the previous day. She inquired if anyone had searched Chicken Ridge, where the bandits were. She eventually ate a bowl of noodles ravenously, indicating her prolonged hunger.
Feng Er, despite observing Xiuxiu's hunger, expressed his displeasure about her eating without contributing, stating that if she ate their food, she would become their family and be obliged to bring the promised land. Xiuxiu attempted to go find Dajiao, but Feng Er and his mother stopped her, saying it was improper for a bride to seek the groom and questioning her ability to do so in her weakened state.
Soon after, news arrived that Feng Dajiao had been seen taking someone into town. Relieved that he was safe, Ning Xiuxiu finally relaxed and fell asleep. Feng's mother covered her with a quilt. Later, Feng Dajiao's mother expressed her admiration for Ning Xiuxiu's beauty but worried about the implications of her past with the bandits, fearing Feng Dajiao might not accept her.
Feng Er, however, saw an opportunity, suggesting that once Dajiao and Xiuxiu returned to her maiden home, they could demand more land from Ning Xuexiang, possibly more than the fifteen mu. Tietou soon returned with Feng Dajiao, who was stunned to find Xiuxiu in his home. His parents explained the situation.
Feng Dajiao, recalling how her own father abandoned Xiuxiu and the Fei family rejected her, declared he would keep her regardless of her circumstances, stating his heart ached at her suffering. Feng Er immediately pressed for the fifteen mu of land as dowry, but Dajiao adamantly refused to demand it from Xiuxiu's family. Tietou privately urged Feng Dajiao to reconsider, reminding him that Xiuxiu had been violated by the bandits.
Feng Dajiao, however, stated that he had loved Xiuxiu since childhood, knowing he could never aspire to her before. Now that no one else wanted her, he considered it a blessing from heaven that she was willing to marry him, and he cared about nothing else. That night, as Ning Xiuxiu slept, she muttered Fei Wendian's name in her dreams. The next morning, Ning Xiuxiu woke to find Feng Dajiao sleeping beside her on the bed-stove.
Feng Dajiao's mother wanted to prepare a good meal for Xiuxiu. Feng Er grudgingly agreed to go to the market for a fish, but only if Xiuxiu would agree to ask her family for the land after eating. When Ning Xiuxiu wanted to wash her face and brush her teeth, she asked Feng Dajiao's mother for warm water and salt, as she had forgotten her tooth powder.
Feng Er, watching her, complained about the waste of precious salt, which was hard-earned by trading eggs from their chickens, which were fed with rice. Despite his grumbling, Feng Dajiao's mother told Xiuxiu to ignore him. When Feng Dajiao returned, Ning Xiuxiu immediately approached him, expressing her relief that he was safe and her worry that he had been captured by bandits. She then asked why he had come to her house and if he had gone to find Fei Wendian.
Episode 5 Recap
Feng Dajiao awoke and immediately pressed Ning Xiuxiu for details about the previous night. He learned that Ning Xuexiang had refused to sell land to rescue Ning Xiuxiu, and instead, Ning Susu had stood in for Ning Xiuxiu at the wedding and entered the bridal chamber with Fei Wendian. Knowing Ning Xiuxiu's heart still longed for Fei Wendian, and unwilling to marry her under such confused circumstances, Feng Dajiao sought her true feelings.
Ning Xiuxiu, feeling the coldness of human nature, expressed her despair and her strong desire to leave Ox Temple Village, admitting she had no idea where to go. Despite her assertion that things with Fei Wendian were impossible and she had given up, Feng Dajiao revealed she had called Fei Wendian's name in her sleep, confirming her true feelings. He understood she was reluctant to confront Fei Wendian herself.
Determined to get a clear answer from Fei Wendian and to hold the Fei family accountable, as well as her own father for not rescuing her, Feng Dajiao announced he would go question Fei Wendian directly, urging Ning Xiuxiu to wait for his return. Feng Dajiao found Fei Wendian and immediately confronted him, demanding to know why he hadn't rescued Ning Xiuxiu and instead married her sister.
Fei Wendian asserted his innocence with Ning Susu, claiming he was too drunk to see clearly and acknowledged his mistake in delaying Ning Xiuxiu's rescue. He then advised Feng Dajiao to treat Ning Xiuxiu well since she was now married to him. Feng Dajiao, enraged, questioned Fei Wendian's manhood and his apparent disregard for Ning Xiuxiu's suffering, emphasizing that the fault lay with those who failed to save her, not Ning Xiuxiu herself.
He challenged Fei Wendian, asking if he still wanted to marry Ning Xiuxiu. Fei Wendian expressed doubt, wondering if Ning Xiuxiu would still accept him. Feng Dajiao then instructed Fei Wendian to return to his house and pick up Ning Xiuxiu before noon with a proper wedding sedan and musicians, parading her through the village three times to restore her honor and make it clear that Fei Wendian was marrying her in a grand manner. Fei Wendian agreed.
Feng Dajiao then reflected on his decision, heartbroken yet resolved to protect Ning Xiuxiu himself. Meanwhile, Feng Er, delighted, purchased a large piece of meat, commenting on its worth being equivalent to fifteen mu of land, and instructed his wife to cook meat porridge. Feng Dajiao returned home and informed Ning Xiuxiu that Fei Wendian had promised to come for her with a proper wedding sedan and musicians before noon.
He explained that Fei Wendian would parade her around the village three times to rectify the humiliation she had suffered. Though Ning Xiuxiu seemed doubtful, Feng Dajiao reassured her. Feng Er's wife called them for a meal, offering meat porridge. Feng Dajiao encouraged Ning Xiuxiu to eat so she'd be ready for the sedan chair, even offering to bring the food to her when she said she wasn't hungry.
Concurrently, Ning Susu eagerly approached Fei Wendian at the Fei household, hoping he had a plan to send her back home, which he confirmed. Fei Wendian then went to speak with Fei Zuoshi, reiterating Feng Dajiao's instructions to pick up Ning Xiuxiu with a proper wedding sedan and parade her through the village. Fei Zuoshi reacted with strong disapproval, reminding him that Ning Xiuxiu had voluntarily married Feng Dajiao and that her return would shame the Fei family ancestors.
Fei Wendian passionately argued that Ning Xiuxiu's fate was his, and he would not let her be defeated by it. In response, Fei Zuoshi slapped him, accusing him of being naive and failing to see Feng Er's manipulative intentions. She explained that Feng Er's family only sought Ning Xiuxiu for her dowry land, and upon learning Ning Xiuxiu refused any dowry, they now wanted to dump her back onto the Fei family, using the grand procession as a pretense.
Fei Zuoshi confronted Fei Wendian about his true feelings regarding Ning Xiuxiu's defilement by bandits, and challenged him to face their ancestors in the ancestral hall and decide if he still truly desired to marry her. Fei Wendian appeared conflicted. Ning Xiuxiu waited anxiously, feeling more uneasy than on her original wedding day, fearing that Fei Zuoshi's words were true and Fei Wendian would not come for her.
As noon passed and Fei Wendian still hadn't arrived, she concluded that Fei Zuoshi had likely prevented him. Feng Dajiao, unable to wait longer, decided to seek Fei Wendian. However, on his way, he encountered Liu, the Fei family's steward, who falsely claimed that Fei Wendian was busy preparing for Ning Susu's return to her maiden home and would not see him. Realizing Fei Wendian would not come, Feng Dajiao took matters into his own hands.
He immediately hired a proper wedding sedan and a band of musicians, parading through the village. He distributed wedding pastries to the villagers and loudly declared his intention to marry Ning Xiuxiu, proclaiming her his lawfully wedded wife and announcing that the sedan would carry her around the village three times to ensure she married into the Feng family in a grand and honorable fashion. Ning Xiuxiu, witnessing this, understood that her path with Fei Wendian was truly closed.
With determined resolve, Feng Dajiao urged Ning Xiuxiu into the sedan, vowing to make up for her suffering. He then hoisted her onto the proper wedding sedan and led a lively procession, complete with drums and gongs, parading her through the village three times to publicize their marriage and unequivocally restore her honor. Ning Xiuxiu was deeply moved by his sincere efforts.
Fei Wendian watched the grand spectacle, feeling a mix of regret and shame, recognizing that Feng Dajiao was truly clearing Ning Xiuxiu's name in a way he couldn't. Fei Zuoshi, however, remained cynical, attributing Feng Dajiao's actions to the failure of Feng Er's dowry scheme.
That evening, Fei Wendian informed Fei Zuoshi of his decision to send Ning Susu back to her family and leave Ox Temple Village to return to school, declaring that arranged marriages were outdated and he wouldn't accept this "exchange" for Ning Xiuxiu. Meanwhile, Feng Er, who had been furious about the lavish wedding expenses, inspected his hidden money and found it untouched, mystified by where Feng Dajiao had obtained the funds.
Feng Dajiao's mother, observing her son's genuine affection for Ning Xiuxiu, assured Feng Er that his money was safe and attributed Feng Dajiao's funds to money saved from odd jobs. Back in their new room, Feng Dajiao told Ning Xiuxiu that he had hired the sedan without consulting her. Ning Xiuxiu, filled with gratitude, expressed her sincere thanks for his efforts to clear her name and acknowledged that he did it for her benefit, not for any reward.
Feng Dajiao, in turn, told her to rest and prepared to find somewhere else to sleep for the night. However, Ning Xiuxiu stopped him, explaining that if he left, their parents and the neighbors would gossip. She insisted that for her to live peacefully in his home, they needed to appear as a genuine couple. Understanding her reasoning, Feng Dajiao agreed and hung a curtain on the bed, allowing them to sleep on separate sides of the same room.
Later that night, Ning Xiuxiu quietly thanked him again for both the grand wedding that restored her honor and for respecting her privacy by setting up the curtain. The next morning, Ning Xiuxiu attempted to prepare breakfast, but, unfamiliar with such chores from her pampered upbringing, she accidentally caused smoke and nearly set the kitchen on fire. Feng Dajiao's mother rushed to check on her, then kindly offered to teach her how to cook.
However, Feng Er interrupted, pressing Ning Xiuxiu to go back to Ning Xuexiang and retrieve the deed for fifteen mu of land. Ning Xiuxiu firmly declared that she no longer had a father and wanted nothing from the Ning family, viewing the land as a source of misfortune. Feng Er was enraged by her refusal and insisted on the land.
Feng Dajiao, however, intervened, telling his father to stop mentioning the land and stating that whether or not to pursue the land depended entirely on Ning Xiuxiu's wishes, reiterating his support for her decision. He told his father that if the land was brought up again, he should deal with Feng Dajiao directly. Later that morning, Tietou urgently sought Feng Dajiao to treat his ailing cow.
Meanwhile, Feng Dajiao's mother kindly measured Ning Xiuxiu's foot, intending to make her a pair of warm cotton shoes, which deeply touched Ning Xiuxiu. Concurrently, Fei Zuoshi prepared lavish gifts and had Fei Wendian escort Ning Susu back to her maiden home. Ning Xuexiang was thrilled upon receiving the generous betrothal gift list from the Fei family. Ning Susu excitedly reported to her mother that Fei Wendian had personally returned her.
Fei Wendian explained to Ning's parents that since his "marriage" to Susu was not an arranged one and they had no romantic connection, Fei Zuoshi insisted he return Ning Susu to maintain her innocence.
Ning Xuexiang then revealed that Fei Zuoshi had also sent a message, stating that while the Fei family would return the dowry list and all betrothal gifts except for the 50 mu of land, as Ning Susu's reputation would be damaged by returning home, her next marriage would require a much larger dowry, and the current gifts could be considered hers.
Ning Susu's sister-in-law, Lianye, was outraged by this, arguing that the Fei family was trying to abandon Susu and that her reputation would be ruined, while Ning Susu herself cried, feeling used and betrayed by her father. Kejin, hearing the commotion, rushed in and chastised Lianye and Fei Wendian, demanding to know if Fei Wendian intended to keep Ning Susu after failing to marry Ning Xiuxiu.
Episode 6 Recap
Fei Wendian, having reluctantly married Ning Susu as a substitute for Ning Xiuxiu, intended to send Susu back to her family and leave Ox Temple Village, as his heart remained with Ning Xiuxiu. When he tried to depart, Ning Kejin confronted him, outraged at the thought of Susu, still a child, being left behind. Ning Kejin firmly declared that as long as he was there, no one would take his sister away.
Ning Mother, however, was desperate to secure Susu's future; she pleaded with Fei Wendian to accept Susu as his wife, instructing her daughter to embrace her role in the Fei family and never mention the substitute marriage again. Despite Susu's tearful pleas not to be sent away, Ning Mother remained resolute, even ordering Ning Kejin to prepare the cart. She also asserted her authority to Ning Xuexiang, declaring he no longer had a say in family matters.
Despite Fei Wendian's protest that he could not recognize Susu as his wife, Ning Mother knelt and begged him, until Lianye reluctantly and forcibly guided a distraught Susu to the waiting carriage. Deeply concerned for her mother's health, Ning Susu soon sought permission from Mrs. Fei to visit home. She explained that her mother was seriously ill and she worried incessantly, having had no proper time to speak with her during her brief previous visit.
Mrs. Fei kindly consented and arranged for a carriage to take Susu back. Meanwhile, Feng Er, after inspecting his fields, returned home and resumed his pressure on Ning Xiuxiu. He reiterated that she must retrieve the deed for the fifteen mu of land as her dowry, brutally reminding her that the Feng family had saved her from a desolate fate after her ordeal and that she owed them gratitude.
He then claimed that if she failed to bring back the land, the Feng family would cast her out, suggesting a person without gratitude was "worse than animals." Enduring his taunts silently, Ning Xiuxiu grabbed her belongings and walked out of the house. Feng Er, watching her leave, secretly smirked, convinced she was finally going to get the land deed. Ning Mother's health continued to deteriorate due to her constant worry for both daughters.
She tried to assure Susu that sending her to the Fei family was for her own good, as finding another husband would be difficult given her situation. She urged Susu to build a good life with Fei Wendian, emphasizing that the Fei family was respectable and well-off. Susu, though acknowledging Mrs. Fei's kindness and the comforts of the Fei Residence, confided that Fei Wendian largely kept to himself, rarely interacting with her.
She also expressed her deep hurt that Ning Xiuxiu was estranged and refused to see their ailing mother. Ning Mother, heartbroken, reaffirmed her love for Xiuxiu, and Susu promised to find a way to bring her sister home. At the Feng household, Feng Dajiao, upon learning from Feng Er that he had driven Ning Xiuxiu from the house to retrieve the land deed, became furious.
He immediately raced out and found Ning Xiuxiu, disoriented and feverish, attempting to build a makeshift shelter in a secluded area. Ning Xiuxiu declared she would rather die than claim the land from her father and steadfastly refused to return to the Feng family because of Feng Er's taunts. Feng Dajiao, realizing her high fever, insisted they go home, carrying her back despite her protests.
Once home, he sternly warned his father that if the fifteen mu of land was ever mentioned again, he would take Ning Xiuxiu and leave for Manchuria permanently, renouncing his family. His mother, terrified at the thought of losing her son, quickly supported him, imploring Feng Er not to provoke Dajiao further. Ning Xiuxiu's fever persisted, but Feng Dajiao stayed by her side, carefully nursing her.
In her delirium, she called out Fei Wendian's name, yet in her dreams, it was Feng Dajiao rescuing her, and his name was on her lips. The next morning, Ning Xiuxiu awoke to find Feng Dajiao still watching over her. Feng Mother then brought her medicine, telling Feng Dajiao to get brown sugar from Humpback Guo for Xiuxiu to regain her strength.
She also revealed that Feng Dajiao's threat to leave for Manchuria had successfully deterred his father from mentioning the land again. Soon after, Ning Susu, having learned of her sister's location, arrived at the Feng residence. Feng Mother welcomed her warmly, explaining Ning Xiuxiu's illness but assuring her of her recovery and the family's care. Susu, feeling remorseful, went to Ning Xiuxiu's bedside. Ning Xiuxiu, though weakened, immediately inquired about their mother's health.
Susu then confessed that their father had coerced her into substituting for Ning Xiuxiu's wedding with a broken promise to exchange them later. Ning Xiuxiu, pained by her sister's sacrifice, lamented that their father only valued land over his daughters. Susu, however, insisted her own suffering was insignificant as long as Xiuxiu was safe, and reaffirmed their unbreakable sisterly bond, to which Ning Xiuxiu reciprocated.
Though Ning Susu pleaded with her to visit their ailing mother, Ning Xiuxiu, bound by a vow never to re-enter the Ning household, refused. Instead, she gave Susu a jade pendant, a cherished dowry from their grandmother, which their mother had then given to both daughters as their own dowries. Ning Xiuxiu asked Susu to present it to their mother, assuring her that Ning Xiuxiu was well cared for and urging Susu not to reveal her illness.
Ning Xiuxiu promised to find a way to visit their mother when she recovered. Fei Wendian informed Mrs. Fei of his imminent return to school. Mrs. Fei, displeased with his quick departure after the marriage, admonished him, stating that he owed Susu proper "closure." She subtly hinted at the need for an heir, declaring that the Fei Residence had been quiet too long and it was "time for newborns." Fei Wendian, however, explicitly stated his intention not to touch Susu.
Despite this, Mrs. Fei ordered a lavish farewell dinner for him. Meanwhile, a servant from the Fei Residence arrived at the Ning household to summon Susu back. Susu pleaded with her mother to stay and care for her, but Ning Mother, informed of Mrs. Fei's concern about gossip for a newly married woman staying away, reluctantly urged Susu to return to the Fei Residence.
Lianye intervened, suggesting Susu could feed her mother one last bowl of porridge before leaving, to which both Susu and her mother agreed. Separately, at the Feng household, Feng Dajiao presented Ning Xiuxiu with a new mirror he had specially obtained. While admiring it, Ning Xiuxiu confessed her deep longing for her ailing mother.
Feng Dajiao offered to accompany her back to the Ning family, but Ning Xiuxiu was torn, explaining her solemn vow never to set foot in her old home again. Unaware of Fei Wendian's personal reluctance, Mrs. Fei strongly urged Susu to ensure Fei Wendian stayed, believing that if Susu bore him a child, he would be bound to the family. Susu, mortified by the suggestion, firmly rejected the idea, her face flushing crimson.
During the farewell banquet, Fei Wendian toasted Susu, acknowledging that their marriage was against both their wishes and that she remained a "free person," offering his help if she ever wished to leave the Fei family. Mrs. Fei swiftly interjected, reassuring Susu that Fei Wendian meant no such thing and reiterating the warmth and festive spirit of the Fei household, promising New Year's celebrations and temple fair visits.
Susu brightened considerably, and Mrs. Fei encouraged both of them to "drink to your heart's content." Soon, both Fei Wendian and Susu felt an unusual heat. Susu, feeling flushed, asked for the brazier to be removed, and Mrs. Fei quickly excused herself, feigning a need to fetch servants and more dishes. Unbeknownst to the young couple, Mrs. Fei had secretly drugged the wine, intending for them to consummate their marriage.
As the potent effects of the wine took hold, Fei Wendian's mind clouded. He stumbled, mistaking Susu for Ning Xiuxiu, and carried her to bed. Under the influence, he called out Ning Xiuxiu's name, declaring his lifelong desire to cherish her and claiming her as his own. Outside the room, Mrs. Fei knelt, fervently praying to the Fei family ancestors for a son.
Episode 7 Recap
Ning Susu awoke in terror to find herself in bed with Fei Wendian, who was equally horrified by the situation. Realizing that Fei Zuoshi had drugged them, Fei Wendian immediately packed his bags and left for school, vowing never to return home. As he departed, he silently bid farewell to his homeland and, in his heart, to Ning Xiuxiu, his forever lost love.
Fei Zuoshi observed Fei Wendian leaving and, assuming their marriage had been consummated, felt a sense of relief. She then visited Ning Susu, who was distressed and upset. Ning Susu expressed dismay over her new, formal hairstyle, lamenting that she could no longer wear her simple braids and felt it was not as beautiful as when Ning Xiuxiu styled her hair, questioning how she would explain this to her sister.
Fei Zuoshi, unperturbed by Ning Susu's distress, calmly offered to do her hair, acknowledging that Ning Susu could no longer style it herself and gently advised her to learn skills to please her husband. Fei Zuoshi then left to collect rent from tenants, instructing Ning Susu to rest at home. Madam Ning, sensing her end was near, worried deeply for Ning Xiuxiu. Her son, Ning Kejin, offered to take her to see Ning Xiuxiu, but she refused.
She explained that despite Ning Xuexiang's flaws, he was the head of the Ning family, and if Ning Xiuxiu continued to defy him, it would cause him to lose face and dishonor the entire Ning family's reputation. Ning Kejin agreed to uphold the family's honor and praised his mother's wisdom. Madam Ning then urgently asked Ning Kejin to summon Feng Dajiao.
When Feng Dajiao arrived, Madam Ning, still concerned, apologized for Ning Xuexiang's actions, stating that he had forced Ning Xiuxiu upon Feng Dajiao for a larger dowry. Feng Dajiao quickly interjected, denying he was forced and recalling how Madam Ning had once kindly given him two delicious steamed buns when he was a child playing with Ning Xiuxiu, expressing his gratitude. He also firmly refused any dowry, stating he desired nothing from Ning Xiuxiu and only wished to keep her.
Madam Ning, reassured by his sincerity, asked if he loved Ning Xiuxiu. Feng Dajiao vowed never to dislike her, promising to treat her well forever if she was willing to endure a hard life with him. Madam Ning, comforted, said she knew Ning Xiuxiu was strong enough to make a good life for herself.
She then knelt to thank him for accepting Ning Xiuxiu, begging him that if he ever found Ning Xiuxiu unsuitable because of her past, he should send her back to her. She added that if she were gone, he should take Ning Xiuxiu to her grave so her daughter could cry and feel comforted as if in her arms. Feng Dajiao, deeply moved, promised his lifelong devotion to Ning Xiuxiu. As he left, he affectionately called Madam Ning "Mother."
Later that evening, Feng Dajiao proposed to Ning Xiuxiu that they bring her mother to live with them. He believed her mother’s health might improve if she were in a more comforting environment, despite their humble abode. He emphasized that together, they could provide the best care for her. Ning Xiuxiu was overjoyed at the prospect, expressing how much she missed her mother.
Feng Dajiao then promised to borrow a cart and clean up the house the next morning to welcome her. That night, Ning Xuexiang returned home late. His wife, Madam Ning, called him over for a heart-to-heart conversation. She acknowledged his deep attachment to land, admitting that it was his lifeblood, more important to him than anything, even his family.
She stated she no longer blamed him for not saving Ning Xiuxiu or for having Ning Susu substitute her, reasoning that the Fei family was a better match anyway. Madam Ning declared that they should stop interfering in their children's lives and let them forge their own paths. She then spoke of her impending death, asking him how thick a burial plot he would give her, specifically requesting four inches.
Ning Xuexiang tried to dismiss her talk of death, but eventually agreed to her request. The next morning, Ning Xuexiang awoke and, thinking his wife was still sleeping peacefully, remarked that she hadn't coughed all night. He gently told her to rest longer as he planned to go collect debts. It was then that he reached out and discovered she had passed away. He was visibly devastated.
News of Madam Ning's death reached Ning Xiuxiu via a messenger from Ning Kejin, urging her to return for the vigil. Overwhelmed with grief, Ning Xiuxiu fainted and collapsed, then lay weeping on her bed, comforted by Feng Dajiao. At the Ning family estate, the mourning arrangements were underway. Ning Kejin argued for a seven-day vigil with two funeral bands to properly honor their mother, while his Uncle preferred a quicker, more modest three-day ceremony to save costs.
Ning Xuexiang reluctantly agreed to Ning Kejin's wishes. People arrived to offer condolences and gifts. Feng Dajiao, dressed in simple mourning clothes, came to pay respects as a son-in-law. However, Ning Xuexiang's staff only offered him a basic mourning cap, signaling that he was not fully recognized as family. Offended, Feng Dajiao, in a fit of anger, left for home. Many tenants came, primarily seeking a full meal.
Glutton Fei, eager for food, brought his entire family, instructing his children to wail loudly to earn steamed buns, a move that drew ridicule from others. His daughter, Yinzi, noticing Tietou laughing at her father, felt deeply shamed and quickly led her younger siblings away from the banquet. Tietou tried to follow, but his mother pulled him back to eat.
Later, Feng Si approached Ning Xuexiang, offering his family's loud wailing services, but Ning Xuexiang bluntly rebuffed him, demanding immediate repayment of outstanding debts, threatening to take Feng Si's land if he failed. Meanwhile, Yinzi sat weeping beneath a tree. Ning Xuexiang approached her, offering a sack of dried sweet potatoes and suggesting she mourn inside. Enraged by his condescension, Yinzi spat at him and fled.
Tietou, who had followed her, repeatedly apologized for laughing at her father, but Yinzi angrily told him to leave, still furious at his earlier mockery. On the day of Madam Ning’s funeral, Ning Kejin led the family and the vast procession of mourners towards the burial site on the back mountain. Ning Xuexiang stood at the entrance of the Ning estate, appearing visibly aged and saddened.
Meanwhile, Feng Dajiao, despite not being fully recognized by the Ning family, arrived at the funeral with an elaborate set of funeral offerings, including paper effigies, meticulously arranged to the full standards of a daughter and son-in-law's send-off. He explained he had scrounged them from two funeral supply shops. Villagers, impressed by his profound respect and filial piety, openly praised him, acknowledging his honorable display as a true son-in-law. Ning Xuexiang, witnessing this grand gesture, was deeply moved to tears.
Ning Xiuxiu, wearing her mourning clothes, rushed to catch up with the procession. She knelt before her mother's coffin, crying inconsolably. In her grief, she imagined her mother’s presence and confessed that she had never truly been defiled by bandits; she had only claimed it to spite her father, Ning Xuexiang. She begged her mother for forgiveness, while an imagined voice of her mother expressed sorrow for Ning Xiuxiu's past suffering, saying it prevented her from resting in peace.
Relatives gently pulled Ning Xiuxiu away as the casket was finally lifted. Back at their home, Ning Xiuxiu was seen frantically searching for red paper. When Feng Dajiao asked why, she explained that she had promised her mother she would cut and send her window flowers every New Year. Feng Dajiao, understanding, immediately set out to find the paper for her. Ning Xiuxiu then stayed up all night, diligently cutting the intricate window flowers.
On the seventh-day memorial for Madam Ning, Ning Susu returned home to burn joss paper for her mother. While there, she spoke to Ning Xuexiang, informing him of Feng Dajiao's financial difficulties and pleading for his help. However, Ning Xuexiang remained steadfast, stating he would only provide assistance if Ning Xiuxiu returned to the Ning family home and formally acknowledged him as her father.
Ning Xiuxiu, still defiant, secretly vowed to herself that she would prove to Ning Xuexiang that she could not only survive but thrive beautifully and live a better life even without the Ning family. Despite having been pampered and never doing manual labor since childhood, Ning Xiuxiu was determined to master household tasks. She diligently began learning from her mother-in-law, even as Feng Er occasionally mocked her lack of practical skill, comparing it to the ease of modern "foreign matches."
Unfazed, Ning Xiuxiu humbly asked her mother-in-law to teach her how to conserve firewood while cooking, demonstrating her resolve to learn and adapt to her new life. Her mother-in-law agreed to guide her.
Episode 8 Recap
Ning Xiuxiu, resolute in her choice to endure a modest life with Feng Dajiao rather than yield to Ning Xuexiang, diligently applied herself to learning household chores and farm work from her mother-in-law. She quickly mastered these tasks, much to the delight of the family. When she began affectionately calling Feng Er and his wife "Father" and "Mother," the couple beamed with happiness, and Feng Dajiao's joy was palpable.
Ning Xuexiang, while inspecting his fields and reprimanding his tenants, spotted Ning Xiuxiu toiling alongside Feng Dajiao's family. Disturbed by the sight, he confronted Feng Er, and their discussion quickly devolved into a bitter argument. Villagers observed, commenting on Ning Xuexiang's past indifference during his daughter's kidnapping and his refusal to provide a proper dowry, now contrasted with his sudden concern.
As the argument escalated, Ning Xiuxiu called Feng Er to help her, referring to him as "Father," further exasperating Ning Xuexiang. He tried to persuade Ning Xiuxiu to abandon her life of hardship with Feng Dajiao, but she firmly stated it was her willing choice, leaving him utterly speechless. He left feeling like she was an ungrateful child, believing she was deliberately hurting him.
Feng Er, however, instantly regretted his verbal jabs at Ning Xuexiang, fearing it would jeopardize his chance of acquiring the 15 mu of land. After a long day, Ning Xiuxiu's delicate shoulders were chafed and swollen from carrying burdens. Feng Dajiao tenderly offered to apply a medicated plaster, while his mother brought a boiled egg and instructed Dajiao to gently roll it over Xiuxiu's shoulder to reduce the swelling.
Later, Ning Xiuxiu, longing for a proper wash, asked Dajiao for a basin of hot water to bathe. Dajiao, wanting to accommodate her, provided the family’s only large water tank. The next morning, Feng Er was enraged to find the tank, their sole water source for cooking and drinking, smelling of soap. He loudly chastised Ning Xiuxiu for being wasteful and bringing shame to the family. Ning Xiuxiu, unaware it was their only tank, apologized profusely.
Her mother-in-law stepped in, defending Ning Xiuxiu by reminding Feng Er of the various other uses their cooking pots had seen. To pacify his father, Feng Dajiao promised to fetch and fill many water buckets for him daily. Ning Xiuxiu insisted on accompanying Dajiao to the well to fetch water, determined to adapt to her new life and build calluses on her shoulders, even though she initially struggled to carry the heavy loads.
Villagers, witnessing her efforts, openly praised Ning Xiuxiu. Ning Xuexiang, still perturbed by Ning Xiuxiu’s situation, expressed his distress to Ning Kejin, complaining about his daughter being forced into manual labor like fetching water, manure, and chopping wood in the bitter "Minor Cold" weather. Ning Kejin, concerned, suggested giving the 15 mu of land as a dowry to ensure Ning Xiuxiu's better treatment. However, Ning Xuexiang vehemently refused, fearing Feng Er's insatiable greed.
Ning Kejin decided to visit Ning Xiuxiu himself and found her after she had been chopping firewood. Feng Er, still resentful, made sarcastic remarks about Ning Xiuxiu "marrying a bear," but his mother interjected, explaining that Ning Xiuxiu willingly helped with chores. Ning Xiuxiu assured her brother she was content and grateful, stating that without the Feng family's acceptance, she wouldn't have survived the winter, and living well was now her sole ambition.
Reassured, Ning Kejin departed, sending more firewood to the Feng family. Ning Xiuxiu continued to embrace her new life, even adopting the family's boisterous eating habits, though Feng Er comically tried to encourage her to eat more quietly. Nevertheless, Feng Er's affection for Ning Xiuxiu grew, and he declared that from then on, Dajiao and he would handle all the heavy, tiresome, and dirty work, leaving lighter tasks for Ning Xiuxiu and his wife.
As the New Year approached, Feng Si attempted to flee from his debts but was intercepted by Ning Xuexiang. Feng Si had borrowed nine silver dollars, which, with interest, had swelled to fifteen. Ning Xuexiang, known as "Ning the Devil" for his ruthless debt collection, refused Feng Si's offer of a piglet and demanded the full amount by the twenty-ninth of the twelfth lunar month, threatening to seize his land if he failed.
Feng Si’s son inadvertently revealed they possessed four mu of good land, which Ning Xuexiang immediately laid claim to, leaving Feng Si furious and helpless. The next day, Feng Si’s wife came to the Feng household, ostensibly to visit Ning Xiuxiu, but secretly hoping to enlist her help in interceding with Ning Xuexiang. Feng Er, seeing through her pretense, flatly refused her entry, stating they had no spare money.
Ning Xiuxiu emerged and reiterated that she had severed all ties with her father and could not assist. Undeterred, Feng Si’s wife sat on the ground, wailing and demanding that if her family couldn't have a peaceful New Year, neither would theirs.
Feng Dajiao’s mother, fed up, publicly shamed Feng Si’s wife, recounting how she and Feng Si had squandered their father-in-law's savings, abandoned him to be cared for by Dajiao's parents until his death, and repeatedly borrowed without ever repaying. The humiliated Feng Si’s wife finally left. Later, Ning Xiuxiu discussed with Feng Dajiao the possibility of making and selling reed rain cloaks to earn extra money, noting that even four mu of land weren't enough to feed a family.
Feng Dajiao agreed it was a viable idea, especially for selling to fishermen, with each cloak potentially earning fifteen to twenty cents. He explained that reeds were only available in autumn and needed to be soaked in salt water for two days before use. Ning Xiuxiu expressed her desire to learn from her mother-in-law.
Feng Dajiao, concerned about her delicate hands being cut by the sharp reeds, tried to dissuade her, but Ning Xiuxiu dismissed his worries, remarking that her hands were of no practical use anyway. Dajiao, however, tenderly confessed that he liked her hands. Meanwhile, Ning Susu visited Ning Xiuxiu and nervously confessed that she and Fei Wendian had drunkenly consummated their marriage the night before he left, and that Fei Wendian had already presented formal acknowledgement to the ancestors.
Ning Xiuxiu, realizing Fei Zuoshi had tricked her, showed no anger. Instead, she gently reassured Susu that she had moved past her feelings for Fei Wendian and advised her to remain with the Fei family, gradually accepting her new reality. She promised Susu continued support, urging her to find happiness and come to her if she ever needed help. As Chinese New Year drew near, Fei Zuoshi directed her servants to decorate the house with lanterns, anticipating Fei Wendian's return.
Ning Susu felt increasingly isolated, longing for her childhood New Year's celebrations with her mother and sister, particularly recalling how Ning Xiuxiu used to cut beautiful window decorations. Back at the Feng household, Ning Xiuxiu was doing just that. She learned of Feng Er’s lifelong dream to own more land, specifically to expand his eighteen mu to twenty.
Resisting the idea of asking Ning Xuexiang for the fifteen mu of dowry land, Ning Xiuxiu proposed a new plan to Feng Dajiao: after the New Year, she would ask Ning Susu to help her rent a few mu of land from the Fei family. Feng Dajiao found this suggestion entirely reasonable.
Episode 9 Recap
After the New Year, Ning Xiuxiu desired to rent some good land from Fei Zuoshi for Feng Er, whose passion for farming was paramount. Feng Er was overjoyed at the prospect, urging Ning Xiuxiu to finalize the arrangement quickly. Ning Xiuxiu, however, was hesitant. She feared Fei Zuoshi might misinterpret her request as an attempt to settle old scores, given Fei Zuoshi had deceived her with a fake blood sample to prevent her marriage to Fei Wendian.
Ning Xiuxiu resolved to discuss the matter thoroughly with Ning Susu before proceeding. Her in-laws were optimistic, especially Feng Er's mother, who believed Susu, being Ning Xiuxiu's biological sister, could certainly help. Feng Er even began planning to plant sesame on a mu of land to make oil for Ning Xiuxiu.
Despite their enthusiasm, Ning Xiuxiu maintained that the matter could not be rushed and she needed to find the right opportunity, though Feng Er stressed the urgency as plowing season was soon after the New Year. Feng Dajiao, however, supported Ning Xiuxiu's caution and suggested they eat first.
Meanwhile, Humpback Guo returned to the village, having traveled in a donkey cart from the city, bringing a variety of new and foreign goods, including matches, foreign nails, celluloid combs, and clear foreign mirrors. Villagers eagerly gathered to examine and purchase his wares as Humpback Guo recounted the latest news from the outside world.
He spoke of the Northern Expedition Army, describing them as an unstoppable force, having conquered lands south of the Yangtze River and subdued warlords like Wu Peifu and Sun Chuanfang. He suggested that people should stock up on goods, as future supply might be uncertain due to the war.
When villagers questioned the benefits of this new army, Humpback Guo explained that the Northern Expedition Army was fighting foreigners and corrupt warlords, promising to waive land taxes and military levies, and specifically targeting "local tyrants and evil gentry" who exploited farmers. Feng Si, upon hearing this, became excited and urged Humpback Guo to tell them when the army would arrive in Ox Temple Village. Ning Susu arrived at Humpback Guo's stall.
He then remembered he had a letter from Fei Wendian for her, though he'd forgotten to bring it. He told her to come to his house later that evening to pick it up. That evening, when Ning Susu went to Humpback Guo's house for the letter, he mischievously offered her a "sea mushroom," claiming it was delicious. Ning Susu tentatively tried it, only to discover it was a live, eight-legged sea snake that moved in her mouth.
Horrified, she fled, but Humpback Guo quickly caught up to her, handing her the letter and a box of foreign candy, which he called "chocolate." Ning Susu was initially wary, fearing it might also be alive, but was pleased to accept the gift. Ning Susu immediately took Fei Wendian's letter home to read it aloud to Fei Zuoshi.
Wendian wrote that he would not be returning for the New Year due to his demanding schedule at school, where he was teaching new poetry and had become the editor-in-chief of the poetry club. More significantly, he mentioned that he was interning in nearby villages, living and working alongside farmers, which he found transformative. He stated he felt he was "changing" and had found his direction, aspiring to be a "new master of this era" and control his own destiny.
He urged Fei Zuoshi to provide grain to the tenants for New Year, acknowledging their immense struggles with heavy taxes and rent. Fei Zuoshi firmly refused this specific request, scoffing and asserting that she always provided for the tenants with other New Year's provisions and was already generous. She also noticed that Wendian made no mention of Ning Susu in his letter, a fact Ning Susu found unremarkable, stating she didn't consider him a close relative.
Fei Zuoshi dismissed Wendian's new ideals as a passing phase, believing he would eventually return to take his place as master of the household. She then instructed Beard Liu to prepare an abundance of firecrackers, emphasizing the need for a grand celebration now that Ning Susu had joined their family. Later, when Susu ate the chocolate, staining her mouth black, Fei Zuoshi was alarmed, mistaking it for something harmful, until Susu clarified it was just the foreign candy.
At the Feng household, Ning Xiuxiu had ash on her face from trying to light the stove with damp firewood. Her mother-in-law, feeling sympathetic, instructed Feng Er to buy matches so Ning Xiuxiu wouldn't suffer. When Feng Er returned with the matches, his proud demeanor amused a neighbor who jokingly asked what treasure he held. Feng Er's mother explained the matches were for Ning Xiuxiu, and another neighbor praised Ning Xiuxiu for inspiring Feng Er to spend on "foreign things."
Ning Xiuxiu, though grateful, deferred to her mother-in-law to try the matches first, finding the new "foreign item" fascinating. Feng Dajiao, meanwhile, was brimming with happiness, confiding in the Ox figure that Ning Xiuxiu now truly considered their family her home. He vowed to work even harder, believing their future would be brighter, and told the Ox figure he felt Ning Xiuxiu was staying, promising to find a "wife" for the Ox figure someday.
He then burned paper for the Ox figure, pledging to bring Ning Xiuxiu to visit next time. Meanwhile, Tietou's mother was furiously chasing him, angered by his habit of stealing grain from home to give to Yinzi's poor family. Feng Dajiao intervened, reassuring her that a little grain wouldn't starve them. He suggested that if Tietou worked hard on their thirteen mu of land next year, he could earn enough to marry Yinzi by autumn.
Tietou's mother vehemently refused, fearing that Glutton Fei's entire family would freeload off them. Feng Dajiao tried to reason with her, explaining that once Yinzi married into their family, she would be theirs, and Glutton Fei's laziness was his own problem. He even offered to take care of Tietou's mother at his own home if her fears came true. Reluctantly, Tietou's mother returned home, still fuming.
In the fields, Yinzi was diligently searching for forgotten corn kernels, a desperate effort to feed her hungry siblings. Tietou arrived, telling her it was a futile task as the fields had been picked clean by both people and animals. He offered her a bag of cornmeal he had stolen from his own home. Yinzi expressed concern about his mother's wrath, but Tietou brushed it off, saying her beatings were like "scratching an itch" and he was used to it.
He asked if Yinzi's father knew he was the one providing the grain. Yinzi laughed, saying her father only cared about eating. Tietou then declared his intention to work tirelessly on his family's fertile land next spring, promising to earn enough to send betrothal gifts and marry Yinzi by autumn. He then playfully lifted Yinzi and spun her around, loudly proclaiming her his wife, their joyful laughter echoing through the fields.
On New Year's Eve, Ning Xuexiang arrived at Feng Si's house with his men to collect a debt of fifteen silver dollars. Feng Si, knowing his intention, had locked his door, and his family hid silently inside. Ning Xuexiang cursed and sang outside, threatening to take Feng Si's four mu of land if he didn't pay. Just then, Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu arrived to deliver food and meat to Feng Si.
Seeing Ning Xuexiang causing a commotion, Ning Xiuxiu calmly approached. She pasted a "Fu" character (luck) on the door and began sweeping the courtyard, subtly but firmly indicating that it was inappropriate to collect debts on New Year's, wishing him future blessings if he spared them. Ning Xuexiang tried to engage her, but Ning Xiuxiu ignored him, continuing to sweep until he reluctantly left. She then left the New Year's goods for Feng Si's family.
Following Fei Wendian's suggestion, Fei Zuoshi instructed Beard Liu to deliver grain to all the tenants. Ning Susu sat idly by the gate, lost in thought, remembering how Ning Xiuxiu used to cut paper window flowers for every window at their home during New Year's.
Missing her sister, Susu was comforted by Fei Zuoshi, who reminded her that her husband's home was now her true family for life, and promised her plenty of red paper to cut window flowers if she wished. She then led Susu inside for the New Year's Eve dinner. That night, Ning Xiuxiu personally prepared a grand New Year's Eve feast, inviting Feng Si's family and Tietou and his mother to join them.
Feng Si's wife was visibly delighted by the abundance of meat and other dishes, noting that she and Tietou had no idea what they would have eaten otherwise. As they toasted to the parents' health and prosperity, Feng Dajiao praised Ning Xiuxiu, quoting her mother who said Ning Xiuxiu could make their days "blossom." When Ning Xiuxiu pressed him, he vaguely claimed it was from a dream.
Tietou, emboldened, toasted his mother and declared his intention to work hard in the coming year to finally marry Yinzi. His mother immediately bristled, reiterating her firm opposition, fearing Yinzi's impoverished family would become a burden. Meanwhile, in Glutton Fei's humble home, Yinzi and her siblings found joy in their simple steamed buns, playing a game with straw to decide who got bigger bites, while their father tried to cheat.
Separately, as villagers set off firecrackers in the streets, Feng Er specially sought out Ning Susu, who was sitting by the gate. He asked her to visit Ning Xiuxiu, and Ning Susu gave him a large bag of peanuts, melon seeds, and candies for Ning Xiuxiu. Across the village, Ning Xuexiang sat alone, drinking in silence. The sound of firecrackers and laughter from outside only amplified his bitterness.
He complained to his late wife's memorial tablet about his children not visiting and vowed never to give them another half mu of land. He reminisced about having provided for them without making them work, lamented his own financial woes, and blamed "bandits" for his misfortunes, not his wife. He resolved to fight his "ungrateful brats" to the end. Later, Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao stayed up late together, keeping the brazier burning bright to "guard the year."
Ning Xiuxiu, reflecting on Feng Dajiao's earlier comment, asked him how he knew her mother's specific words about her, as she didn't remember him ever meeting her mother. Feng Dajiao revealed that he had long wished to tell her: he had made a solemn vow to her mother that he would cherish Ning Xiuxiu for life.
He confessed that he once saw her as a distant "person in a painting," but now, with her by his side, he found her "a thousand times better." He pleaded with her to trust him and stay, promising to show her how well he would treat her. The next morning, the first day of the New Year, Feng Dajiao's mother prepared to take Ning Xiuxiu to Goddess Mountain to pray for a child, and Feng Dajiao quickly hitched the cart.
Ning Susu arrived, surprising them, to offer her New Year greetings. She told Ning Xiuxiu she came first because Ning Xiuxiu had promised they'd always be like sisters. Learning of the temple fair, Susu eagerly asked to join. Feng Er, seeing Susu, directly reminded Feng Dajiao about the land rental from Fei Zuoshi, but Feng Dajiao simply waved him off and departed with the women.
Simultaneously, the tenants arrived at Fei Zuoshi's house to offer New Year's gifts, but she politely declined, explaining that it was the Fei family's tradition to give, not receive, during the New Year. The tenants thanked her profusely and offered blessings for her family to have a child soon. On the way back from the temple fair, Ning Susu, too impatient to wait, finished her candied hawthorns.
Back home, she observed Feng Dajiao's family, noting that despite their apparent lack of possessions, they seemed to lack nothing at all. She then boldly asked Ning Xiuxiu about intimate details of her marriage with Feng Dajiao, making Ning Xiuxiu blush and change the subject. Ning Susu remarked how good Feng Dajiao was to Ning Xiuxiu, even giving her the sweetest part of his sweet potato while eating only the skin himself, which made Susu envious.
Ning Xiuxiu humbly attributed it to good luck. Susu then lamented her own fate, recalling Fei Wendian's words that she was a "sacrifice for marriage," implying all three of them were. Ning Xiuxiu dismissed Wendian's cynical view, asserting that one's life is what one makes of it, irrespective of external circumstances. She then began to confide in Ning Susu about a matter she wanted to discuss.
Episode 10 Recap
Ning Susu came to Ning Xiuxiu's home for New Year's, and after visiting the temple fair with Ning Xiuxiu's family, she decided to stay the night. Ning Xiuxiu brought up the matter of renting land, and Ning Susu readily agreed, telling her sister that renting land was simple and that she would handle it. Meanwhile, Feng Er paced anxiously, urging Feng Dajiao to find out if Ning Xiuxiu and Ning Susu had settled the land deal.
Feng Dajiao refused, stating the sisters were just chatting and he had no business eavesdropping. Feng Er worried that Miss Susu was not leaving and it had been too long. Later, Fei Zuoshi arrived to take Ning Susu home. Ning Susu expressed her desire to stay with her sister for the night, and Ning Xiuxiu also pleaded for her to stay. Fei Zuoshi, however, insisted, scolding Ning Susu for being willful and bothering her sister and brother-in-law.
She reminded Ning Susu about proper family address and said there would be plenty of time to chat later. Despite both sisters' protests, Fei Zuoshi forcibly took Ning Susu away. Ning Xiuxiu was left feeling disheartened, lamenting that Fei Zuoshi was like a sturdy lock, controlling everything, and wondered if it was truly right for Susu to return to the Fei Residence. Back home, Ning Susu offered Fei Zuoshi a drink, pretending it was for no particular reason.
Fei Zuoshi, seeing through her pretense, told her to speak directly. Ning Susu then brought up Feng Er's wish to rent good land, admitting it was Ning Xiuxiu's idea. Fei Zuoshi inquired if Ning Xiuxiu was truly committed to Feng Dajiao. Ning Susu confirmed that Ning Xiuxiu genuinely loved Feng Dajiao and they were very affectionate, assuring Fei Zuoshi that Ning Xiuxiu was dedicated to her new life.
Hearing this, Fei Zuoshi agreed to lease the land, stating it was a simple matter of family land and she wouldn't make Ning Susu lose face. Ning Susu thanked her and toasted her on Ning Xiuxiu's behalf. Ning Xiuxiu spent time with her mother-in-law, learning to weave straw shoes and rain cloaks. Her mother-in-law was full of praise, calling Ning Xiuxiu a "clever girl" and her weaving even better than her own.
Ning Xiuxiu took the opportunity to ask about Feng Dajiao's childhood. Her mother-in-law recounted stories, like Feng Dajiao being born with large feet, running at eight months old, and wearing his father's shoes by age nine. She shared tales of his early life, including saving a beggar who turned out to be an "immortal" and granted Feng Dajiao special abilities like curing sick oxen and predicting weather.
She concluded by praising Feng Dajiao's dutiful and filial nature as a farmer, and Ning Xiuxiu's adaptability, predicting a bright future for them. Meanwhile, Ning Xuexiang invited Feng Si for drinks. Feng Si quickly guessed Ning Xuexiang was after his four mu of land. Ning Xuexiang reminisced about their fathers' deep friendship, implying he wanted to help Feng Si, whose parents were now gone.
Ning Xuexiang told Feng Si that farming was a waste of his talent, suggesting he should go out and "chase fast money" like he did with odd jobs. He offered to buy Feng Si's four mu of land at a high price of five silver dollars per mu, totaling twenty silver dollars. He deducted Feng Si's fifteen silver dollar debt, giving him five silver dollars on the spot.
Ning Xuexiang promised to nurture the land and return it to Feng Si when he was old and ready to retire to the village, explaining that he wouldn't return it sooner to prevent Feng Si from gambling it away again. Convinced, Feng Si excitedly pressed his thumbprint on the contract, vowing to "chase fast money" and never farm again.
Ning Xuexiang, speaking to his attendant, then ordered that Feng Si be sent off with peanuts and a "legless chicken," a subtle jab at Feng Si's misfortune. Unaware of the true implications, Feng Si declared that he would never drink with the Feng family again. Feng Er, still anxious about the land, urged Ning Xiuxiu to go to Ning Susu and inquire about the land rental agreement.
Ning Xiuxiu, supported by her mother-in-law, advised patience, reminding him that Ning Susu had already agreed and needed time to discuss it with Fei Zuoshi. She pointed out that going too soon might cause awkwardness. Feng Er expressed his worry that other landlords were already surveying land for deeds, fearing good plots would be snatched up. His mother-in-law teased him about his impatience regarding land.
Later, Feng Dajiao informed Ning Xiuxiu that Tietou's family, despite having thirteen mu of land, lacked money for seeds and was too proud to ask for a loan. Feng Dajiao believed helping Tietou earn money was better than giving handouts. Ning Xiuxiu showed Feng Dajiao a tightly woven rain cloak she had made. Feng Dajiao praised her skill but noticed her hands were scratched. He worried about her hands becoming rough, but Ning Xiuxiu accepted it.
Feng Dajiao then offered to go salt trafficking himself with Humpback Guo to earn money and spare Ning Xiuxiu hardship. Inspired by this, Ning Xiuxiu suggested Tietou go with Humpback Guo instead, a proposal Feng Dajiao readily agreed to. Ning Xiuxiu then prepared clothes and travel expenses for Tietou. Tietou expressed his gratitude, accepting the clothes and promising to abide by any rules as long as he could earn cash.
As the Start of Spring arrived, Feng Dajiao presented Ning Xiuxiu with a radish for the "biting spring" tradition. Ning Xiuxiu mentioned her own mother used to have her bite radish to relieve spring drowsiness. Feng Dajiao then explained that his mother had meant it as a "Descendant Radish," hoping for an early grandson, which made Ning Xiuxiu blush. Soon after, Feng Dajiao took Ning Xiuxiu to the "testing the spring's breath" ceremony.
Feng Er led the villagers in a solemn ritual: they knelt and burned incense, and Feng Er placed a feather in a bamboo tube. Everyone held their breath as the feather slowly floated out, signaling that spring had arrived and the land was ready for cultivation. The villagers cheered and chanted, eager to begin farming.
Ning Xiuxiu was deeply moved, realizing the profound connection farmers had with the land, seeing it not just as a livelihood but as a source of emotional solace. Meanwhile, Fei Zuoshi convened all her tenants, instructing Beard Liu to announce new rental contracts. She declared that those who had missed rent payments would have their leased land reduced by 30% for one year missed and 50% for two years missed, unless they agreed to pay an additional bushel of grain.
Tietou's mother pleaded with Fei Zuoshi, explaining that while they usually paid on time, her husband's illness had led to old debts, making it difficult. Fei Zuoshi, however, insisted on strict adherence to the rules, stating that past and present debts were all the same. She finalized her decision, giving Tietou's family's thirteen mu of rented land to Feng Er.
Feng Er, arriving at that moment, was invited in by Beard Liu, where Fei Zuoshi informed him of the terms for leasing her family's land. Feng Er, overjoyed by the additional thirteen mu, combined with his family's existing eighteen mu, exuberantly exclaimed that they would soon be "sleeping in the fields" due to the immense amount of work. Ning Xiuxiu expressed concern that Feng Er and Feng Dajiao would be overworked.
Feng Er dismissed her worries, stating he was not afraid of labor, only idleness. He suggested buying a ploughing ox to lighten their load and increase efficiency, but he was reluctant to spend money, citing the risk of livestock illness. Ning Xiuxiu teased him for his stinginess, pointing out that his money box was "screaming" to buy an ox.
Feng Dajiao, who also wished for an ox, agreed with Ning Xiuxiu that "people are more valuable than livestock," and her concern for their well-being was evident. Feng Er, still hesitant, eventually gave up the discussion, though Feng Dajiao observed that Feng Er couldn't truly resist the idea. The next morning, Ning Xiuxiu went to the livestock market. She spotted a one-horned ox.
The seller, Zhang Hoof, initially asked for six silver dollars, emphasizing the ox's strength despite its broken horn. Ning Xiuxiu, however, negotiated, offering one silver dollar as a deposit and stating that her father-in-law, Feng Er, would pay the remaining three silver dollars upon delivery. The seller agreed to the delivery, keeping the one-dollar deposit if Feng Er refused.
When the seller arrived at Feng Er's house with the ox, Feng Er was surprised and initially refused to accept it, questioning why Ning Xiuxiu had made such a decision without his input. He told the seller to take the ox back. The seller, however, informed him that Ning Xiuxiu had already paid a one-silver-dollar deposit, which would not be refunded if the ox was rejected.
Faced with losing the deposit, Feng Er, though still fuming about Ning Xiuxiu's "self-willed" action, reluctantly paid the remaining three silver dollars to purchase the ox. Later, Ning Xiuxiu discussed with Feng Dajiao her plan to get her one-silver-dollar deposit back from Feng Er. Feng Dajiao acknowledged that Feng Er had only accepted the ox because he didn't want to lose the deposit and was likely still angry.
Feng Er, overhearing this, continued to vent his frustration, calling Ning Xiuxiu "wild" for her impulsive purchase and vowing to have Feng Dajiao teach her a lesson. Feng Dajiao, however, found Ning Xiuxiu's audacity amusing, commenting that she "knew his mind best" and had managed to "put him in his place" after decades of his frugality.
Feng Er, still irritated, abruptly left the room, but Feng Dajiao chuckled, knowing that Feng Er secretly liked the ox and simply couldn't resist the deal. Feng Dajiao then mused aloud that both "a hornless ox and a squint-eyed man" possess a certain temper, which often indicates a strong personality.
Episode 11 Recap
Feng Er was delighted with the one-horned ox Ning Xiuxiu bought him, feeling the three dollars spent were well worth it. Early the next morning, he proudly led the ox around the village, earning praise from the villagers who considered it a great bargain. Seeing Feng Er's fondness for the ox, Feng Dajiao teasingly suggested selling it. Feng Er adamantly refused, leading Feng Dajiao to demand the one-dollar deposit Ning Xiuxiu had paid.
Feng Er was reluctant to part with it, but his wife stepped in to take the money from him. Ning Xiuxiu then gave the dollar back to Feng Er, instructing him to keep it safe in his money box for buying land, an idea Feng Dajiao amusingly dismissed as he claimed to have no such box. Elated, Feng Er went to Fei Zuoshi to sign a land lease contract for thirteen mu in Sesame Gully before inspecting his new plot.
Meanwhile, Feng Dajiao tried to call Tietou over to bank the fire, but there was no response. Tietou’s mother emerged from her house, launching into a furious tirade against Ning Xiuxiu, leaving Ning Xiuxiu bewildered. Feng Dajiao suspected that Fei Zuoshi had leased Tietou’s family’s land to them. Feng Er confirmed this suspicion by showing the contract for the thirteen mu of land.
Both Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu urged Feng Er to return the land to Fei Zuoshi, concerned about Tietou's family. Misunderstanding the situation, Tietou believed Ning Xiuxiu had conspired with Fei Zuoshi to take his family's land. In a fit of anger, he threw clothes Ning Xiuxiu had prepared for him into Feng Dajiao's yard and then tore down the wall between their homes.
Tietou cursed Feng Er, while Tietou’s mother wept uncontrollably, accusing Feng Er's family of bullying a widow and orphan and wishing divine retribution upon them. Feng Dajiao demanded the land deed from Feng Er, intending to return it to Fei Zuoshi, but Feng Er stubbornly refused. Tietou’s mother, still distraught, continued to hurl insults at Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Er.
Despite Ning Xiuxiu’s repeated attempts to explain that they had no idea whose land they were leasing, Tietou’s mother refused to believe her, accusing her of having no conscience. Angered, Ning Xiuxiu retorted, reminding her of the kindness their family had shown, including sharing dumplings on New Year's Eve, which Tietou's mother now called "evil-filled." Feng Dajiao quickly pulled Ning Xiuxiu away, explaining that Tietou's family had never owned land, relying solely on leased plots.
He recounted how Tietou's father had barely secured the thirteen mu from Fei Zuoshi, and after his death, Tietou and his mother had painstakingly cultivated it, fearing its reclamation. Taking this land, Feng Dajiao stressed, would effectively cut off Tietou's family's only means of survival. Ning Xiuxiu, hearing the full story, regretted her harsh words. Unable to stomach the injustice, Tietou confronted Fei Zuoshi, demanding to know why she reclaimed his land.
Fei Zuoshi, however, instructed Beard Liu to produce the account book, citing Tietou’s family’s consistent failure to pay rent and their numerous borrowings. Tietou pleaded for one year to repay all debts, but Fei Zuoshi dismissed his request, stating that the land was hers to manage as she pleased and advising him to channel his energy more productively. Devastated, Tietou went to Yin Zi, crying that with his land gone, he could no longer afford to marry her.
Feng Dajiao went to Fei Zuoshi, attempting to return the leased land, admitting he couldn't bring himself to offend Tietou. Ning Susu, overhearing, pointed out that Feng Er clearly liked the land and advised Feng Dajiao not to overthink the situation, reminding him that if their family didn't lease it, another would. Despite Feng Er's eagerness to plow the new land, his wife (Feng Dajiao's mother) firmly stopped him, insisting they couldn't cultivate it until the dispute was resolved.
Feng Er reluctantly put the ox away and went to work on the field alone. Later, when Feng Dajiao attempted to rebuild the torn-down wall between their homes, Tietou immediately kicked it down again. Feng Dajiao's mother advised him to stop trying to rebuild it for now, suggesting they wait until Tietou's family calmed down. At the village entrance, Tietou, Feng Si, and Glutton Fei were looking for work.
Feng Si, having heard about Tietou's land being taken by Feng Er, began badmouthing Feng Er to Tietou. Glutton Fei, Yin Zi's father, condemned Feng Si for spreading rumors, reminding him of his own past laziness and how he had squandered his own land. Tietou, angered by Glutton Fei's ingratitude despite the food he often gave Yin Zi's family, got into a heated argument with him. Glutton Fei then warned Tietou to stay away from Yin Zi.
A hiring agent from Pan Xiaogui's estate in Xiazhuang arrived, seeking laborers. Tietou was immediately hired, but Glutton Fei was rejected, leading him to hold a grudge against Tietou for not speaking up for him, solidifying his resolve not to marry Yin Zi to Tietou. Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu then discussed a new plan: to secretly send the ox to Feng Er so he could plow the land.
They reasoned that regardless of who ultimately farmed the land, having it plowed wouldn't be a waste. Feng Dajiao led the ox to the field, then hid. Feng Er, seeing the ox, was overjoyed and immediately began plowing. Feng Dajiao later visited Tietou's mother, delivering a message from Tietou that he had found labor work for Pan Xiaogui and would return in a day and a half for his bedding.
Feng Dajiao also brought a bundle of firewood, but Tietou's mother tearfully refused it, distressed that her son was forced into labor. Feng Dajiao tried to reassure her that his family was working to get her land back, but she dismissed his words as lies. Tietou and Feng Si were assigned to Pan Xiaogui's estate, sharing a room.
Feng Si, despite his earlier words, offered to return home the next day to retrieve bedding for both of them, promising to take on Tietou's work while he was gone. Meanwhile, Du Chunlin, the head of the county farmers' association, personally visited Ning Kejin. Ning Kejin had formed a militia and joined the Qingqi Society. Master Guo had strongly recommended Ning Kejin to Du Chunlin, praising his skills and leadership.
Du Chunlin urged Ning Kejin to join the movement to resist taxes and fight corrupt officials. Ning Kejin, however, stated that his group's primary purpose was home defense and banditry. Ning Xuewu interjected, pointing out that Du Chunlin’s father, Du Mingyi, was Ning Kejin’s grandfather’s sworn brother, urging Ning Kejin to embrace a broader ambition. Ning Kejin agreed to discuss the proposal with Master Guo first.
Du Chunlin then went to thank Feng Dajiao for saving his life, accompanied by Ning Xuewu, who was pleased to see Ning Xiuxiu's thriving life. Du Chunlin offered Feng Dajiao a position at the farmers' association in the county, promising a monthly salary and inviting him to bring his family. Feng Dajiao, unable to make a decision immediately, wanted to consult his family.
While Feng Er and his wife (Feng Dajiao's mother) prepared a meal, with Ning Xiuxiu helping, Feng Dajiao invited Du Chunlin to stay for dinner. Du Chunlin, however, excused himself, claiming urgent business. That night, two masked bandits arrived at Pan Xiaogui's estate to scout for a robbery. Feng Si accidentally overheard them. When discovered, they threatened him with guns, forcing him to offer his assistance.
Later, Ning Xiuxiu enthusiastically supported Feng Dajiao's move to the county, immediately packing his bags and praising Du Chunlin as a great man with whom he could accomplish big things. However, Feng Dajiao confessed he wished to stay home to help his aging parents with farm work. Seeing his resolve, Ning Xiuxiu reluctantly put away the packed luggage, acknowledging the importance of filial piety.
Episode 12 Recap
Du Chunlin, whom Feng Dajiao had previously rescued and taken to the hospital, later, before his departure, secretly left a silver dollar for Dajiao as a token of thanks. That night, Ning Xiuxiu discovered the money and advised Dajiao to travel to the county town to return it in person, as Du Chunlin had already left. Dajiao agreed. Meanwhile, Tietou's family had lost their 13 mu of rented land.
It had been seized by Fei Zuoshi due to unpaid debts from Tietou's deceased father's illness, and then rented to Feng Er. Feng Er guarded the land deed possessively, even sleeping with it under his pillow. One night, Feng Dajiao's mother, attempting to take the deed while Feng Er slept, was caught by him. Feng Er angrily accused her of being a "thief in the family" and threatened to divorce her.
His wife retorted that she'd welcome the divorce, tired of his stinginess after a lifetime together, and insisted they shouldn't farm Tietou's land. Feng Dajiao, hearing the commotion, came out and supported his mother, agreeing that she was right to try to take the deed. This further angered Feng Er, who accused his wife and son of being disloyal outsiders, even bringing up the 15 mu of dowry land Ning Xiuxiu hadn't brought with her. Just then, Ning Xiuxiu arrived.
She advised Feng Er not to be angry and to proceed with farming Tietou's land, suggesting he focus on what to plant for the upcoming spring plowing. Hearing Ning Xiuxiu's unexpected support, Feng Er's demeanor instantly changed. He praised her as an educated and sensible daughter-in-law. Seeing this shift, Feng Dajiao quickly pulled Ning Xiuxiu away.
Feng Er, still simmering with anger, again threatened to divorce his wife, mocking her true age, which was nine years older than him, not three as the matchmaker claimed. Later, Ning Xiuxiu discussed the land with Dajiao, pointing out they couldn't farm Tietou's land and questioning if they could retrieve the deed.
She proposed a plan for a "turnaround": Dajiao would feign accepting Du Chunlin's offer to work in the county town, which included a salary and a 20-silver-dollar settling fee, with the option to bring family. The next morning, Ning Xiuxiu revealed Du Chunlin's offer to Feng Dajiao's mother, showing her the silver dollars left by Du Chunlin. His mother was overjoyed, exclaiming that Dajiao was destined for greatness and that their ancestors must be blessing them.
Feng Er, upon hearing of Dajiao's potential departure, was torn, realizing he couldn't manage all thirty-plus mu of land alone. Dajiao seized the opportunity to suggest Feng Er return the 13 mu to Fei Zuoshi for Tietou. Feng Er reacted with speechless fury, accusing Dajiao of tricking him. Ning Xiuxiu quickly sent Dajiao to fetch water. She then reassured Feng Er that Du Chunlin's offer was legitimate and confirmed the large sum of silver dollars.
She also stated that Dajiao was genuinely reluctant to leave his parents and farming, but felt compelled to go if Feng Er wouldn't relent on the land. In a subtle move to pressure him, Ning Xiuxiu advised Feng Er to keep the land and focus on planting, while reassuring Dajiao's mother that Dajiao's ambition was natural. Meanwhile, in Xiazhuang Village, Hu San and his men were scouting targets for a robbery.
They captured Feng Si, who was working as a farm laborer for Pan Xiaogui. Though initially frightened, Feng Si quickly offered to be an inside man and guide for them, claiming to know the village intimately from his work organizing ceremonies, and identifying Pan Xiaogui's house as the wealthiest target. One of Hu San's men vouched for Feng Si's quick wit and usefulness, promising to keep him under close watch.
Hu San accepted Feng Si's offer, warning his men that they would be held responsible if anything went amiss. Unable to sleep, Feng Er continued to wrestle with the decision of prioritizing Dajiao's promising future in the city over the thirteen mu of new land. His wife, however, firmly advocated for their son's advancement. The following morning, Feng Dajiao set off for the county town, carrying the silver dollar to return to Du Chunlin.
Back home, Ning Xiuxiu confided in her mother-in-law, revealing the true purpose behind their charade: to convince Feng Er to voluntarily relinquish the land deed to Tietou. The mother-in-law, impressed by Ning Xiuxiu's cleverness, praised her highly and gave her some valuable perilla seeds to take as a gift when she visited Fei Zuoshi. Ning Xiuxiu then personally went to Fei Zuoshi's residence, accompanied by Ning Susu, to plead with her to rent the thirteen mu back to Tietou's family.
Fei Zuoshi agreed, but on one condition: Ning Xiuxiu must write a letter to Fei Wendian, persuading him to return home. Ning Xiuxiu readily agreed and penned the letter on the spot. Pleased, Fei Zuoshi promised the land would go to Tietou once Wendian returned and then, with Ning Susu's help, began preparing a meal to entertain Ning Xiuxiu.
Ning Susu, still unsure about Fei Wendian's return, expressed her fear to Ning Xiuxiu, who reassured her that if Dajiao went to the city, she would take Susu along. Back at home, Feng Er was furious to learn that Dajiao had actually left for the county town, lamenting that he couldn't possibly manage the household's expanded landholdings alone. He blamed Ning Xiuxiu for not stopping Dajiao.
Ning Xiuxiu calmly replied that as a woman, she had to obey her husband, and besides, her strength wouldn't have been enough to stop his son. Feng Er, exasperated, retreated indoors, clinging to the land, stating he had already deep-plowed it three times. Ning Xiuxiu, however, suggested that if he returned the land, Tietou's family would be grateful for his effort. Meanwhile, Feng Dajiao walked to the county town.
Along the way, he encountered Xiao Qing, a worker from the Fei family, who was on his way to deliver a letter to Fei Wendian. When Dajiao learned that the letter was written by Ning Xiuxiu, his curiosity was piqued, but Xiao Qing refused to show him the contents. Upon reaching the farmers' association, Dajiao learned that Du Chunlin was away and wouldn't return for another two days. Mr. Shen arranged for Dajiao to stay there overnight.
That night, Dajiao was awakened by a commotion. Mr. Shen was rallying his men to meet Du Chunlin's returning group. Dajiao, upon learning that Du Chunlin was back, eagerly volunteered to join them. Mr. Shen led his contingent of the Qingqi Society, successfully storming the Shuhe County Government and the police station, apprehending corrupt officials who had been exploiting the populace with excessive taxes and abusing their power. Dajiao witnessed this action, feeling a surge of excitement.
Simultaneously, Ning Kejin led his own forces in a swift raid on the Shuhe County Security Corps, confiscating all their firearms and ammunition and arresting their members. However, their captain managed to escape amidst the chaos. Ning Kejin, not wishing to prolong the engagement, quickly ordered his men to rendezvous with Mr. Shen's group. Ning Kejin and Mr. Shen converged their forces and met with Du Chunlin.
Ning Kejin was surprised to discover that Feng Dajiao was already with Du Chunlin and learned from Du Chunlin that Dajiao was his brother-in-law. As they discussed the successful operation, Du Chunlin explained to Dajiao that this was the kind of work he wanted Dajiao to do – fighting for the common people. Just then, the escaped captain of the Security Corps emerged from the shadows and fired a shot at Du Chunlin.
Without hesitation, Dajiao lunged forward, shielding Du Chunlin from the bullet and taking the hit himself. He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors confirmed he had sustained a flesh wound, thankfully not life-threatening. Du Chunlin, relieved but concerned for Dajiao's recovery, immediately dispatched Ning Kejin's men to bring Ning Xiuxiu to the hospital, believing her attentive care would aid Dajiao's healing. Fei Wendian received the letter, which contained only a single character, "Return."
He immediately understood it was from Ning Xiuxiu. Meanwhile, Ning Xiuxiu arrived at the hospital to care for Feng Dajiao. Upon seeing his sweaty state, she fretted over his pain, though Dajiao insisted he was fine, having only a minor wound that wouldn't hinder his farming. When a nurse came to administer an injection and asked Ning Xiuxiu to help remove Dajiao's pants, she blushed with embarrassment but complied.
Feng Dajiao joked that he felt no pain with her by his side. As Dajiao’s condition steadily improved under Ning Xiuxiu's attentive care, he finally voiced the concern that had been weighing heavily on his mind since his arrival: the letter she wrote to Fei Wendian. Ning Xiuxiu reassured him, explaining that Fei Zuoshi had only agreed to rent the land back to Tietou's family if Ning Xiuxiu wrote to her son, Fei Wendian, urging his return.
To fulfill the condition without betraying her current allegiance, Ning Xiuxiu simply wrote the word "Return," signifying her status as an "outsider" to the Fei family and merely Susu's sister. Dajiao immediately apologized for his suspicions. Ning Xiuxiu then affirmed that after all they had been through, their hearts were now united, and she only wished to live a stable life with him and his parents. Dajiao was filled with profound joy upon hearing her words.
Du Chunlin visited Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu at the hospital, noting Dajiao’s improved spirits thanks to Ning Xiuxiu. He used the opportunity to explain the Farmers' Association's policies on land reform, emphasizing their role in empowering farmers against oppressive landlords. Du Chunlin promised a more detailed explanation once Dajiao fully recovered.
Meanwhile, Fei Wendian sought leave from his principal, eager to return home to address Ning Xiuxiu's letter and to resolve his relationship with Ning Susu, unwilling to delay her future any longer. He also expressed his desire to introduce the ideas of the Farmers' Association to his village. His principal supported his return, advising him to be patient in dismantling feudal strongholds and to subtly promote the association's principles by understanding local customs and establishing trust.
Back at the Fei estate, Fei Zuoshi meticulously prepared for her son’s return, ordering servants to clean the house and prepare his favorite dishes. She also instructed them to air out the bedding of both Fei Wendian and Ning Susu.
Fei Zuoshi then took Ning Susu aside to share "secret remedies" for childbirth, including a new pillow filled with dried orange peels, which she claimed would encourage intimacy and thus conception, citing Madam Liu from the front village's success with it. She also urged Susu to diligently practice squatting exercises, stating the midwife assured her it would strengthen her for childbirth, regardless of the baby's size.
Despite Susu's complaints about the bitter lye buns and porridge she was made to eat, Fei Zuoshi insisted on the demanding practice regimen. Upon Feng Dajiao's discharge from the hospital, Du Chunlin arranged for Ning Kejin to escort him and Ning Xiuxiu back home. Ning Kejin orchestrated a grand homecoming, with a procession of gongs and drums accompanying Dajiao, who was carried in a sedan chair.
To the gathered villagers, Ning Kejin dramatically recounted Dajiao's heroic act of shielding Du Chunlin from the assassin's bullet, claiming he himself had then retaliated and killed the assailant. He praised Dajiao’s bravery and the miraculous nature of his minor injury, attributing it to divine protection. The villagers hailed Dajiao as a true hero. Before leaving, Ning Kejin instructed Feng Er to host a celebratory feast for his men.
Feng Er readily agreed, though he later muttered to his wife about demanding compensation for Dajiao's injury, to which his wife countered that if he didn't resolve the land issue, Dajiao would leave again. That night, Feng Dajiao thanked Ning Xiuxiu for her unwavering care, telling her that even the hospital nurse had praised her as an "angel of a wife."
He then asked her what she truly thought of herself, to which she tenderly replied that he was "even better than an angel." Dajiao then sought reassurance that her earlier words about wanting to live a simple, stable life with him and his parents were sincere. Ning Xiuxiu assured him she would never lie.
She confessed that her initial marriage to him had been out of defiance and gratitude for saving her life, and while she felt safe, they were essentially strangers. However, his consistent kindness, his thoughtfulness towards her feelings, and his refusal to ever force or mistreat her, allowed her to gradually come to know his true character: his inherent goodness, capabilities, and profound love for her.
She concluded that while others might call her an "angel," she was the fortunate one, having found her "rock" in him. She affirmed that marrying him in anger was, in fact, the best decision she had ever made, as she had "never felt this secure" in her entire life. Their conversation deepened their emotional bond, and they subsequently slept together, consummating their marriage.
Episode 13 Recap
After finally consummating their marriage, Feng Dajiao was surprised to discover that Ning Xiuxiu was still a virgin. Ning Xiuxiu then confessed that she had deliberately spread rumors of being defiled by bandits. She revealed she did this as an act of defiance against her father, Ning Xuexiang, who had abandoned her to the bandits, hoping to make him feel remorse.
She added that a kind man named Guo had risked his life to help her escape, and she had kept his involvement a secret to protect him from the bandits' wrath. Feng Dajiao was deeply moved by her suffering and promised to shield her from all harm and to find a way to thank Guo for his brave act. The next morning, on the second day of the second lunar month, the traditional "circling the granary" ritual began.
Feng Dajiao's mother woke the couple, insisting that Feng Dajiao, now a married man, should lead the household's ritual. Feng Dajiao, seeing an opportunity, tried to bargain with Feng Er, stating he would only stay home and farm if Tietou's land was returned. Feng Er, without outright refusing, deflected the demand, insisting they focus on the ritual for now. Ning Xiuxiu led the incantation for a bountiful harvest, joined by Feng Dajiao and his mother.
Around Ox Temple Village, other families also performed the ritual. Fei Zuoshi and Ning Susu completed theirs, while at Glutton Fei's house, his wife suffered a severe coughing fit, spitting blood. At Ning Xuexiang's home, his servant, Kuangzi, made light of the massive granary Ning Xuexiang had drawn, earning a sharp rebuke and threats from his master. Shortly after, Ning Kejin arrived, bringing a roasted duck from town to share with his father.
Over their meal, Ning Kejin attempted to persuade Ning Xuexiang to support the farmers' association's initiatives, such as rent and interest reductions. Ning Xuexiang, however, was vehemently opposed, warning his son to be cautious in the volatile political climate. Ning Kejin then broached the subject of acquiring 20 modern pistols for his men, asking his father for 200 silver dollars. Ning Xuexiang flatly refused, unwilling to part with valuable land for such a cause.
Frustrated, Ning Kejin abruptly left with the duck. Meanwhile, Fei Zuoshi continued her strict regimen for Ning Susu, aiming to ensure she would conceive a male heir. Ning Susu, constantly hungry, was caught by Fei Zuoshi trying to secretly eat white steamed buns with pork belly. Fei Zuoshi scolded her about her growing appetite and forced her to drink a bitter herbal concoction. Soon after, Ning Susu began to feel dizzy and nauseous.
Feng Dajiao, recovering from his injuries, felt his bond with Ning Xiuxiu growing stronger. He confronted Feng Er again about Tietou's land. Despite Feng Er's stubborn refusal, citing the hard work he'd put into the land, Feng Dajiao declared he would leave for the county with Ning Xiuxiu to join the revolutionary movement if the land was not returned. Faced with the ultimatum, Feng Er reluctantly handed over the land deed (for his lease).
Tietou's mother, upon Fei Zuoshi returning her family's land, was overcome with emotion and apologized profusely to Feng Dajiao's family and Ning Xiuxiu for her past harsh words. Feng Dajiao, in turn, promised to help her family with their spring planting and urged her to send for Tietou immediately. Later, Fei Wendian unexpectedly arrived home, prompted by Ning Xiuxiu's letter. Fei Zuoshi hosted a lavish dinner for him, though Ning Susu was still restricted to a bland diet.
Fei Wendian questioned Ning Susu about her sister's letter, but Susu redirected him to Fei Zuoshi. When Fei Wendian expressed a desire to visit Ning Xiuxiu, Fei Zuoshi forbade him, prioritizing his union with Ning Susu for the purpose of procreation. As the conversation continued, Ning Susu suddenly vomited. She then revealed she had missed her period for two months, confirming Fei Zuoshi's overjoyed suspicion that she was pregnant. Fei Zuoshi immediately sent for Doctor Huo.
Simultaneously, Hu San and his men raided Pan Xiaogui's home, with the help of Feng Si who betrayed Pan Xiaogui. Pan Xiaogui was captured, but Tietou managed to escape. Doctor Huo examined Ning Susu and confirmed she was indeed pregnant. Overjoyed, Fei Zuoshi sent Qing to deliver the good news to the Ning household and Ning Xiuxiu. Upon hearing the news, Feng Dajiao's mother eagerly pressed Ning Xiuxiu about having her own child, making Ning Xiuxiu blush.
Ning Xiuxiu then visited Ning Susu, bringing her eggs and advising her to rest and take care of herself, emphasizing her new role. Fei Zuoshi expressed immense gratitude to Ning Xiuxiu for her letter, which had brought Fei Wendian home. However, Fei Wendian himself was far from happy, as he had returned with the intention of ending his engagement with Ning Susu.
As Ning Xiuxiu prepared to leave the Fei residence, Fei Zuoshi instructed Fei Wendian to escort her out, quickly retreating to attend to Ning Susu. Outside, Ning Xiuxiu congratulated Fei Wendian on his impending fatherhood and urged him to treat Ning Susu kindly, suggesting he remain in the village for a while. She confided that Ning Susu had been quite miserable during his absence and had even considered leaving the Fei family.
Fei Wendian stood speechless as Ning Xiuxiu departed, promising to visit Susu again soon. Meanwhile, a crisis unfolded at Ning Xuewu's home. His son, Kebi, had gotten into a violent fight after his pet quail lost a match, severely breaking his opponent's leg. The injured party demanded 500 silver dollars in compensation and threatened legal action, demanding Kebi's imprisonment. Desperate, Ning Xuewu sought help from Ning Kejin, who advised him to prepare the large sum of money.
With no other choice, Ning Xuewu prepared to sell his family land to save his son from jail. Feng Er, hearing of Ning Xuewu's predicament, saw an opportunity to expand his landholdings. He arrived at Ning Xuewu's home, ostensibly to offer help, carrying 40 silver dollars. Ning Xuexiang also arrived, providing monetary support to his brother. Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao came to offer their assistance.
Ning Xiuxiu expressed deep admiration for Ning Xuewu's willingness to sacrifice his land for his son, starkly contrasting it with her own father's past abandonment. Ning Xuewu, still burdened by his past failure to protect Ning Xiuxiu, appreciated their support. Ning Kejin, exhausted from running errands to gather potential land buyers, instructed Feng Dajiao to stay and oversee the situation while he went home for a meal.
Feng Dajiao, understanding that Feng Er was primarily interested in acquiring good land, suggested to Ning Xiuxiu that they visit Ning Susu. Ning Xiuxiu agreed, stating she had something to discuss with him on the way.
Episode 14 Recap
Ning Xuexiang, upon learning from Ning Kejin that his second brother, Ning Xuewu, intended to sell family land to pay off Ning Kebi's debt, immediately rushed to Ning Xuewu's house without finishing his meal. Fei Zuoshi had already arrived with 480 silver coins, intending to purchase Ning Xuewu's 30 mu of land located at East Ridge.
She explained that she was interested in the land because it was adjacent to her family's property, making it easier to manage if rented to tenants later. She emphasized that she respected Village Chief Xuewu and was there to help in his time of need, not to compete.
Although Ning Xuewu offered her 14 mu of his recognized good land in the west village at 18 silver coins per mu, she declined, stating that the 480 silver coins for the East Ridge land were a fair price to both parties. Feng Er also expressed a desire to buy some land, and Ning Xuewu readily agreed to both. However, just as Fei Zuoshi was about to sign the contract, Ning Xuexiang burst in, vehemently opposing the sale.
He invoked ancestral rules, declaring that Ning family land could not pass into another family's hands. He then forcibly sent Fei Zuoshi away, stating he would buy the land himself, but only offered a mere 10 silver coins per mu. Ning Xuewu, though distressed by the low offer compared to Fei Zuoshi's 16 per mu, remained silent.
Feng Er then attempted to buy four mu for 40 silver coins, but Ning Xuexiang flatly refused, questioning Feng Er's right to buy Ning land as he wasn't a Ning. Just then, Ning Susu and Ning Xiuxiu arrived, declaring their intention to buy all 30 mu of Ning Xuewu's land at 16 silver coins per mu. Ning Xuexiang protested that married daughters no longer counted as Ning family members.
However, Ning Kejin arrived and supported his sisters, asserting his own status as a Ning family member and stating his sisters were genuinely trying to help. He offered to buy the land and then resell it to any villagers, including his sisters. Faced with his children's united front, Ning Xuexiang, frustrated, had to concede. The three siblings successfully bought Ning Xuewu's land, enraging Ning Xuexiang.
Ning Susu returned home and reported to Fei Zuoshi, who praised her as a great contributor to the Fei family. Ning Susu worried her father Ning Xuexiang would be angry, but Fei Zuoshi consoled her. Meanwhile, Ning Xiuxiu, despite participating in the purchase, had not kept any land for herself or Feng Er.
She explained to a disappointed Feng Er that she wanted to leave some land for Ning Xuewu and his son Ning Kebi to make a living, believing it was wrong to take advantage of their hardship. She and Feng Dajiao felt their family already had sufficient land. Feng Dajiao supported her decision. Seeing her father-in-law's disappointment, Ning Xiuxiu felt a pang of guilt.
Feng Dajiao comforted her, promising to clear some wasteland to achieve his father's dream of owning 20 mu, despite his arm not being fully recovered. The next day, while Feng Dajiao, Ning Xiuxiu, and Feng's mother were working in the fields alongside Auntie Tietou, Feng Dajiao's father, Feng Er, arrived.
Auntie Tietou expressed gratitude to Feng Er for deeply plowing her 13 mu of land in Sesame Gully, stating that it was sure to yield a good harvest and promised to have Tietou treat him to a drink when he returned. Suddenly, a villager named Zhuzi rushed over with alarming news: Pan Xiaogui's house had been raided by bandits, and several farmhands were taken hostage to be held for ransom. Some who tried to escape were killed.
Auntie Tietou, already worried about Tietou, collapsed upon hearing this devastating news, fearing Tietou was among the captured. Feng Dajiao quickly carried her to the side of the field, while Ning Xiuxiu and Feng's mother tried to revive her. Feng Dajiao then instructed Zhuzi to gather other young men to search for the captured villagers, promising to join them after making sure Auntie Tietou was settled.
Back home, Ning Kejin secretly retrieved a gun, asking Kuangzi to keep it a secret from his father. Ning Xuexiang, however, overheard him and, still furious about the land sale, chased Ning Kejin with a broom, accusing him of betraying the family. Ning Kejin fled. Fei Wendian received a letter from his principal, urging him to organize farmers and promote the Farmers' Association movement.
He had been diligently traveling to various villages, leaving before dawn and returning late, to publicize the association's policies. He advised Fei Zuoshi to treat their tenants kindly, but she was reluctant to embrace permanent tenancy rights, arguing that she had many tenants and had always treated them well, providing them with seeds and tools, unlike other landlords. She questioned why she should be the first to implement such changes.
Feng Dajiao and Zhuzi, along with others, searched for Tietou in Xiazhuang Village and nearby areas. They finally found him at a Farmers' Association meeting, where he was passionately advocating for permanent tenancy rights and preventing landlords from arbitrarily reclaiming land. He even used the example of his own family's land being taken back to illustrate his point. Feng Dajiao urged Tietou to return home to his mother, who had fainted multiple times from worry.
He informed Tietou that Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao's father had already secured the return of their land and had even planted most of the peanut seeds. Tietou, however, was focused on his new mission, proclaiming that he intended to reclaim his 13 mu of land in Sesame Gully and secure permanent tenancy rights for it through the Farmers' Association.
He told Feng Dajiao to follow his lead, declaring he was going to do great things and would return to the village to fight local tyrants and redistribute land. Tietou excitedly visited Yinzi, announcing himself as the director of the Farmers' Association. He boasted about the changing times and promised to marry her with a grand proper wedding sedan and musicians, like Feng Dajiao had married Ning Xiuxiu. However, Yinzi was more concerned about immediate needs.
Her mother's illness was worsening, and she had no money for medicine or seeds. Tietou could not offer direct financial help, only promising that a better life would come with the Farmers' Association, urging her to trust him. Yinzi despaired, lamenting her helplessness as a woman in their desperate situation, short on grains with wild vegetables and tree bark as their only food.
Fei Zuoshi, uncertain about the Farmers' Association's policies on reducing rent and interest, visited Ning Xuexiang to sound him out. Ning Xuexiang feigned ignorance, subtly implying that because he had fewer tenants and farmed most of his land himself, he would face fewer problems than Fei Zuoshi, who, as a widow, relied heavily on many tenants. Fei Zuoshi understood his meaning and left in frustration, feeling that Ning Xuexiang had not been helpful.
Later, Tietou gathered his younger friends in the village and distributed wooden badges, symbolizing their unity in the Farmers' Association. When Feng Dajiao arrived, Tietou also gave him a badge, designating him as his assistant. Tietou proclaimed that their Farmers' Association was officially established, and from that day forward, they, as team leaders, would lead the charge against exploitation and fight for farmers' rights. Their first target, he declared, would be the "old widow" who had arbitrarily taken back land, implying Fei Zuoshi, as she had caused him much trouble.
Episode 15 Recap
Fei Wendian returned home after a long absence, summoned by a one-word letter, "Return," from Ning Xiuxiu. He had planned to send Ning Susu back to her family to end their mismatched marriage, but he discovered she was pregnant with his child, which made him unable to speak of divorce. Meanwhile, his principal sent him a letter, urging him to rally farmers and initiate a peasant movement.
Fei Wendian attempted to persuade Fei Zuoshi, his sister-in-law, to reduce rent and interest rates for the tenants and grant them permanent tenancy rights. Fei Zuoshi flatly refused, stating she was going to the Goddess Temple to fulfill a vow, thanking the Goddess for granting the Fei family an heir and praying for Susu and the baby.
When Fei Wendian pressed her on the matter, she quickly left, instructing him to take good care of Ning Susu at home and forbidding Susu from leaving. Soon after Fei Zuoshi departed, Fei Wendian also left to spread awareness about the Farmers' Association. Bored and confined at home, Ning Susu secretly snuck out. Fei Wendian went to the fields and found Zhuzi and his wife plowing.
He tried to explain the importance of the Farmers' Association, rent reduction, interest cuts, and permanent tenancy rights. Zhuzi, however, was only concerned with cultivating his rented land. He advised Fei Wendian that these changes were only welcome if the landlords agreed and suggested he first convince Fei Zuoshi before trying to persuade others. Despite Fei Wendian's earnest attempts, his words seemed to fall on deaf ears.
Elsewhere, Ning Susu sought out Humpback Guo to buy snacks, including chocolate and dried persimmons. Humpback Guo, noticing her cravings, deduced she was pregnant. He told her he had no foreign candy like chocolate, but offered her nut kernels. Ning Susu bought everything he had and told him to bill Fei Zuoshi. Unbeknownst to them, Hu San and his bandits raided Pan Xiaogui's home, capturing several hired laborers as hostages.
Tietou managed to escape the chaos at Pan Xiaogui's house and, by chance, encountered members of the Farmers' Association who were promoting their cause. He quickly joined their ranks and was appointed director of the Ox Temple Village Farmers' Association. He distributed wooden badges to the villagers, emblazoned with a plow as the association's emblem, and vigorously promoted permanent tenancy rights.
Having faced rejection from the villagers, Fei Wendian sought out Tietou, hoping to offer his meticulously compiled work notes from his investigations. Tietou, however, scoffed at his offer, dismissing Fei Wendian as a landlord's son who had no place in the Farmers' Association. Just then, Tietou received news from Comrade Bai's messenger: a struggle session against the despotic landlord Pan Xiaogui was scheduled for that afternoon in Xiazhuang Village, and Tietou was to bring his activists to observe and learn.
Excited, Tietou immediately left with his followers. Fei Wendian tried to talk to Feng Dajiao about the Farmers' Association, but Feng Dajiao, eager for the spectacle, chose to follow Tietou instead. Fei Wendian returned home dispirited, finding Fei Zuoshi already back from the Goddess Temple. She chastised him for not taking better care of Ning Susu.
He then informed her about Pan Xiaogui's struggle session, emphasizing that Pan Xiaogui's downfall was partly due to his refusal to reduce rent and interest for his tenants. Fei Zuoshi, however, believed she was different from Pan Xiaogui, citing Pan Xiaogui's long history of misdeeds. Fei Wendian implored her to take the lead in reducing rent and interest for her tenants, but Fei Zuoshi vehemently refused, even scolding him for wanting to "overturn the world."
Ning Susu, in her room, clearly overheard their entire conversation. After witnessing Pan Xiaogui's struggle session, Tietou was determined to immediately hold one for Fei Zuoshi. Feng Dajiao tried his best to speak up for Fei Zuoshi, repeatedly emphasizing that she was not like Pan Xiaogui and was a good-hearted person. However, Tietou insisted on making an example of Fei Zuoshi, driven by resentment for her taking back his family's land.
He vowed that this would be the Farmers' Association's first big move and planned to rally all the farmhands in the village, especially the Fei family's tenants, to demand permanent tenancy and reduced rent and interest. He dispatched men to notify the villagers to gather at his house after dinner, preparing for the struggle session that very night. Ning Xiuxiu, distressed, worried that her father, Ning Xuexiang, would also be subjected to a struggle session.
Feng Dajiao tried to convince Ning Xiuxiu to let him warn Fei Zuoshi, but Ning Xiuxiu refused, fearing Tietou would resent Feng Dajiao. Her greater concern was for her own father, so she urged Feng Dajiao to try persuading Tietou again. Meanwhile, Fei Wendian, anticipating Tietou would target Fei Zuoshi, resolved to take the punishment in her place, a gesture that began to make Fei Zuoshi uneasy.
Feng Dajiao went to Ning Kejin, explaining the situation and urging him to convince Ning Xuexiang to reduce rent and interest to avoid Pan Xiaogui's fate. Ning Kejin, while initially dismissive, eventually promised to protect Ning Xuexiang. Feng Dajiao then returned to Tietou, advising him against targeting Fei Zuoshi first. He argued that it would appear as personal revenge, undermining the Farmers' Association's credibility with the villagers and even with Mr. Bai and other officials who appointed him.
Tietou pondered this, admitting his sole desire was to "crush that old widow," but acknowledged the importance of gaining public trust. He decided to postpone targeting Fei Zuoshi and instead declared his intention to target Ning Xuexiang, Feng Dajiao's father-in-law, first. Feng Dajiao then suggested gathering all the village landlords for a meeting to first ask who would voluntarily agree to rent reduction, interest cuts, and permanent tenancy, but Tietou rejected the idea of diplomacy before force.
Ning Xiuxiu tirelessly worked through the night to embroider a flag for the Farmers' Association. She also wrote a letter to Ning Xuexiang. As she was about to deliver the letter, she encountered Tietou. Unable to read, Tietou demanded Ning Xiuxiu read the letter aloud. In the letter, Ning Xiuxiu urged her father to cooperate with the Farmers' Association, warning that resisting would make him an enemy of all tenants, just like Pan Xiaogui.
Tietou, while allowing her to continue embroidering the flag, still forbade Ning Xiuxiu from interfering or leaving her home, ordering a guard to watch her. Feng Dajiao, enraged by Tietou's ingratitude given Ning Xiuxiu's efforts to embroider a flag for the association, accused him of being ungrateful. Feng Er and his wife, hearing the commotion, rushed over and severely reprimanded Tietou, who, facing their combined anger, reluctantly left with his men.
That night, Tietou sent his four squad leaders to notify tenants for a gathering, but only a handful showed up, citing exhaustion or other commitments. Frustrated by the low turnout, Tietou decided to personally go door-to-door to rally more support. He intended to arrest Ning Xuexiang at dawn the next day and dispatched men to guard the village entrance to prevent anyone from warning Ning Kejin.
Feng Dajiao attempted to persuade Tietou to wait until Ning Xiuxiu finished embroidering the flag, but Tietou was impatient, declaring he wouldn't wait even if the flag wasn't finished. Ning Xiuxiu continued to work on the flag all night, and her mother-in-law, seeing her dedication, brought her a warm bowl of millet porridge, expressing concern for her being caught between her landlord father and the farmhands' association.
Ning Xiuxiu explained she simply wanted to do her part for the Farmers' Association, regardless of whether the flag was used. Meanwhile, Tietou managed to gather more tenants during the night and ordered the removal of the guards watching Ning Xiuxiu. Feng Er, worried, discreetly went to warn Ning Xuexiang. By morning, Ning Xiuxiu finally completed the flag. Tietou, pleased with the finished banner, proudly held it aloft and led the assembled tenants towards Ning Xuexiang's residence.
Humpback Guo observed the procession, making sarcastic comments about the Farmers' Association's shabby appearance. Tietou invited him to join, but Humpback Guo politely declined, stating he didn't farm and already had comfortable shoes and pants. As Tietou's group arrived at Ning Xuexiang's house, they found Ning Kejin and his militia brothers diligently performing their drills at the entrance. The militia's disciplined and agile movements intimidated many of the tenants, who, disheartened, began to disperse and return to their homes.
Tietou tried to rally his remaining men, but the momentum was lost. Ning Kejin provocatively invited Tietou to join their practice, but Tietou, focused on his objective, simply demanded Ning Xuexiang come out. Ning Kejin deflected, saying they would talk later, and ordered his militia to continue their drills, effectively blocking Tietou's path. Seeing the grim situation, Feng Er, who had followed the procession, quickly decided to leave, recognizing the imminent confrontation.
Episode 16 Recap
Tietou finally gathered the tenants to publicly denounce Ning Xuexiang. However, Ning Kejin, leading his militia, was already training vigorously at Ning Xuexiang's doorstep, their unified, agile movements and shouts of "Don't step on the flag!" intimidating. The militia's powerful presence scared all the gathered tenants, who scattered and went home. Tietou was left feeling frustrated and disappointed by the failure of his first attempt.
Feng Er, who had come hoping to help Ning Xuexiang, was relieved to see the denouncement thwarted but also somewhat disappointed that the situation didn't escalate. As he lingered near the Ning family gates, Ning Xuexiang noticed him and grew enraged, believing Feng Er was there to mock his misfortune. Ning Xuexiang boastfully declared that his family's homestead was the largest in Ox Temple Village and had stood for generations, proclaiming, "We Ning family never falls!"
He even asserted that his son, Ning Kejin, was his "golden shield" and no one could touch him. Feng Er retorted, calling Ning Xuexiang "an ancient turtle" and warning him that despite his temporary escape, the Farmers' Association would "teach him a lesson you won't forget" sooner or later. Ning Xuexiang, feigning hospitality, then offered Feng Er a drink, which Feng Er flatly refused, calling it "horse piss."
Feng Er explained that his true intention was to intervene and help if Ning Xuexiang had been attacked, but Ning Xuexiang had instead verbally abused him. Ning Xuexiang then had Kuangzi close the gate. Meanwhile, Ning Kejin, pleased with his militia's display, led them through the village. Ning Xiuxiu approached her brother, urging him not to let their father oppose the Farmers' Association, fearing it would only harm Ning Xuexiang.
Ning Kejin dismissed her concerns, stating that the land was their father's life and as a son, he had to support him, assuring her that with him around, "no one can touch our Ning family." Ning Xiuxiu, reflecting on how Ning Kejin knew to act so swiftly, suspected someone had forewarned him.
Feng Dajiao, in turn, confessed that he had gone to Ning Kejin earlier, hoping to persuade him to advise Ning Xuexiang to compromise, but it seemed Ning Kejin had misunderstood his message and instead gathered the militia to confront Tietou. Ning Xiuxiu thanked Feng Dajiao, expressing how he always seemed to understand her thoughts and act on her behalf, making her feel as refreshed as "drinking a cold bowl of water on the hottest summer day."
Feng Dajiao responded that it was only natural as he considered them "one and the same." Tietou's efforts to organize the tenants for reform backfired severely when several landlords, including one mentioned for kicking Fei Baisui, retaliated by repossessing the land of those who participated. The affected tenants, including women whose husbands had joined Tietou, angrily stormed Tietou's home with their families, demanding their land back.
Tietou's mother bravely defended her son, arguing that the men had joined the Farmers' Association willingly. Feng Dajiao arrived and managed to pacify the enraged crowd, persuading them to disperse. Later, Tietou sat by the river, dejected and lamenting the failure, which he felt jeopardized his ability to marry Yinzi. Feng Dajiao tried to console him, suggesting he seek advice from Fei Wendian, who had experience with farmers' associations.
Tietou stubbornly refused, disparaging Fei Wendian as a "beardless scholar" from a wealthy family. Instead, Tietou insisted on seeking out a "highest-ranking official" who had taught him at the Farmers' Association's study group, believing this person could truly help. At the Fei family's estate, Fei Zuoshi instructed Beard Liu to gather all tenants, announcing that she would proactively offer rent and interest reductions and permanent tenancy.
She revealed her motivation to Fei Wendian: she didn't want him to be arrested and publicly humiliated. Fei Wendian, alongside Beard Liu, then began the process of registering the tenants' requests, with many opting for permanent tenancy. Tietou's mother was among the first to successfully secure permanent tenancy for her family. Tietou, with Feng Dajiao, visited Du Chunlin, the official he spoke of.
Tietou proudly introduced Du Chunlin to Feng Dajiao as the "high official" he knew, expecting Du Chunlin to greet him formally. To Tietou's surprise and slight jealousy, Du Chunlin greeted Feng Dajiao warmly, inquiring about his injury. Feng Dajiao explained that he had saved Du Chunlin's life twice. Tietou expressed his annoyance, telling Feng Dajiao to stop calling Du Chunlin "Brother Du" and instead address him as "Director." Feng Dajiao assured Tietou that he would always stand by him.
Meanwhile, Ning Susu, having witnessed Fei Zuoshi's actions, rushed home to persuade Ning Xuexiang to grant permanent tenancy and reduce rents for his tenants, warning him that Tietou was consulting with the Farmers' Association and he risked public humiliation and having cow dung thrown at him, much like Pan Xiaogui. Ning Xuexiang angrily dismissed her, suspecting her of being a spy sent by Fei Zuoshi to "spy on me."
He then had Kuangzi escort her out and return the gifts she had brought, despite her protests that she didn't want them. He added that he worried about her pregnancy, saying he would take care of her since her mother was gone. Feeling downhearted, Ning Susu encountered Fei Wendian on her way home. She tearfully recounted how her father had driven her out, and her worries about Ning Xuexiang facing the same fate as Pan Xiaogui.
Fei Wendian comforted her, wiping her tears, and offered to fly a kite with her. As they flew the kite, Ning Susu confessed her fear for her father. Fei Wendian reassured her that Pan Xiaogui's fate was deserved, but Ning Xuexiang was different. He explained that the Farmers' Association aimed to improve tenants' lives, not create conflict with landlords.
He promised to persuade Ning Xuexiang, emphasizing that since Ning Susu was pregnant with his child, her father was now his father too, and he would take care of everything. Fei Zuoshi struggled emotionally after granting permanent tenancy and reductions, losing her appetite. Fei Wendian tried to comfort her and offered to persuade Ning Xuexiang, but Fei Zuoshi snapped at him, telling him not to "lecture" her or meddle in others' affairs when their own situation was still uncertain.
Later, Du Chunlin sent a letter to Tietou. Tietou and Feng Dajiao returned to the village. Tietou questioned whether the letter would be enough to persuade Ning Xuexiang, to which Feng Dajiao replied that the letter was "as powerful as the armed forces of the Farmers' Association" and that Du Chunlin would personally intervene if necessary.
In a surprising turn, Ning Xuexiang had his staff set up a table outside Feng Er's house, publicly announcing his decision to reduce rent and interest and grant permanent tenancy. He invited Tietou to oversee the process and even brought in Ning Xueshi to manage the paperwork, declaring, "I want the peasants in Ox Temple Village to see what I'll accomplish today."
Several tenants, including Li Laosan and Ning Youtong, eagerly presented their land deeds to convert them to permanent tenancy. Ning Xuexiang also dramatically pulled out the land deed for fifteen mu of land by the village well, announcing it as Ning Xiuxiu's dowry that the Feng family could now claim. Feng Er eagerly reached for it, but Feng Dajiao quickly pulled him back, insisting, "Father, we can't take it!" Ning Xuexiang then promptly closed his main gate.
Feng Er, furious at losing the fifteen mu of land, blamed Ning Xiuxiu, accusing her of being a "jinx" and declaring, "In this house, it's either her or me." He also believed Feng Dajiao was under Ning Xiuxiu's influence. Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao, perplexed by Ning Xuexiang's sudden and seemingly genuine cooperation, initially wondered if someone else had persuaded him, as Tietou's letter from Du Chunlin had not yet been presented.
However, that very night, Ning Xuexiang summoned the three tenants who had received permanent tenancy deeds earlier. He took back the new deeds and returned their original ones. Ning Xuexiang then sternly warned them to keep this secret, threatening that if anyone revealed the truth, they would not only lose their land from the Ning family but would also be prevented from renting land from any other landlord in the area.
Separately, Tietou's mother joyfully informed him that she had received the first permanent tenancy document from Fei Zuoshi's family. Tietou was ecstatic, realizing that their family could now farm their land indefinitely without fear of dispossession. He excitedly declared, "I won't have to work as a laborer anymore!" and vowed to put all his effort into the land to "rise up." Meanwhile, Fei Daduzi and Yinzi were working hard in the fields when their mother brought them thin rice porridge.
Yinzi, thinking of her younger siblings, pretended not to be hungry, but her father quickly consumed it all, leaving nothing for her. Later, the tension between Feng Er and Ning Xiuxiu continued. Feng Er, still angry about the lost dowry land, ordered Feng Dajiao to tell Ning Xiuxiu to stop "pretending to care" about him and the family. Ning Xiuxiu confronted Feng Er, questioning his accusations and asserting that she had always shown respect to his parents since marrying into the family.
Episode 17 Recap
Feng Er, still fuming after Ning Xuexiang publicly revoked the 15 mu of dowry land, vented his anger on Ning Xiuxiu when Feng Dajiao pulled him away. He accused her of being insincere and questioned why she hadn't secured the dowry from her father, Ning Xuexiang, despite their fractured relationship, lamenting that he could have easily gained land by marrying someone else. Ning Xiuxiu calmly defended herself, asserting her genuine respect and obedience since joining the family.
Feng Dajiao intervened, urging Ning Xiuxiu to rest and assuring her that Feng Er’s words were spoken in anger. However, Feng Er remained unyielding, accusing Ning Xiuxiu of siding with her father and threatening to disown her as a daughter-in-law. Feng Dajiao then took Feng Er home, leaving Ning Xiuxiu to retreat into her room, reflecting on their strained family dynamics. Later, Ning Xiuxiu cooked and brought food to Feng Er in the fields, but he firmly refused to eat.
Feng Dajiao tried to calm her, but Ning Xiuxiu was not angry; she only desired to live peacefully with Feng Dajiao and realized she hadn't properly considered Feng Er's feelings, wishing to speak with him properly. Subsequently, Ning Xiuxiu spoke to her mother-in-law, admitting the validity of Feng Er's criticisms and realizing she had inadvertently burdened them with her issues.
She expressed her desire to mend the rifts within the family for their collective prosperity, particularly the argument with Feng Er, acknowledging that harmony brings wealth. Her mother-in-law comforted her, expecting Feng Er to calm down soon, but cautioned her against risky ventures to earn money, sharing an old tale of a family whose attempt to grow medicinal herbs instead of grain resulted in ruin. Ning Xiuxiu listened intently, seemingly formulating her own plans.
Meanwhile, Tietou, overjoyed by the permanent tenancy his mother had secured, proudly showed Yin Zi his land deed, emphasizing the security it brought. He offered her all his money to buy food for her siblings, but Yin Zi, ever practical, declined, stating her need to gather wild vegetables to feed her family. Days later, Glutton Fei, frustrated by Ning Xuexiang's unfulfilled promise of permanent tenancy, arrived at Ning Xuexiang's residence.
Kuangzi, Ning Xuexiang’s servant, tried to dissuade him, hinting at Glutton Fei’s unsuitability. Glutton Fei stubbornly refused to leave, demanding to see Ning Xuexiang. Ning Xuexiang eventually summoned him, confronting him with a detailed account of his longstanding debts and accusing him of causing trouble instead of repaying what he owed. He flatly refused to grant Glutton Fei permanent tenancy and expelled him when he dared to ask for more grain.
Soon after, Glutton Fei’s wife and children were seen begging for food. Tietou's mother spotted them and angrily denounced Yin Zi as a "vixen" for purportedly bewitching Tietou and causing him to secretly provide them with food. She insisted that Yin Zi's family marry her off quickly to prevent further financial drain on Tietou. Yin Zi’s mother, overwhelmed by the public humiliation, fainted.
When Yin Zi arrived, she confronted Tietou's mother, and Tietou himself stepped forward, publicly vowing to marry only Yin Zi. However, Yin Zi, determined not to be a burden, firmly rejected him, telling him to give up his aspirations for her. In a fit of rage, Tietou tried to strike Yin Zi but was restrained by Ning Xiuxiu. He then packed his belongings and stormed out of the house, ignoring his mother's desperate pleas.
Ning Susu, finding it difficult to study on her own, sought assistance from Fei Wendian. He read to her, even incorporating English phrases, which deeply impressed her. Elsewhere, Fei Zuoshi expressed her distress over the permanent tenancy and rent reduction policies, fearing how she would answer to her ancestors.
Fei Wendian tried to console her, suggesting that the ancestors no longer mattered in a changing world, which only further angered Fei Zuoshi, who commanded him to kneel for his disrespectful words. Ning Susu, still intrigued by the foreign language, followed Fei Wendian as he left, and he offered to explain it to her during a walk. Ning Xiuxiu, recalling her mother-in-law's story about cultivating medicinal herbs, contemplated planting salvia miltiorrhiza to earn money and purchase land for Feng Er.
Her mother-in-law, however, warned her against such a venture, recounting the cautionary tale of the family who suffered a devastating fire after abandoning grain for herbs. Later, Glutton Fei approached Tietou for help regarding his permanent tenancy, but Tietou cited Ning Xuexiang's valid reason of debt as an insurmountable obstacle. Glutton Fei then went to Fei Wendian's residence, but finding him absent, explained his situation to Fei Zuoshi.
Fei Zuoshi advised him that it would be improper for Fei Wendian, as Ning Xuexiang's son-in-law, to intervene. Instead, she suggested Glutton Fei learn from other successful permanent tenants how they managed to secure their rights. She also offered him some millet to help his family. Feng Dajiao attempted to discuss clearing new land with Feng Er, who initially resisted. Ning Xiuxiu then interjected, proposing her plan to earn money and buy land independently, without relying on the Ning family.
This piqued Feng Er's interest, leading him to finally agree to eat with them. Later, Tietou's mother frantically sought Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu's help, explaining that Tietou had built a shelter in the fields and refused to return home. They went to Tietou, who proudly showed off his well-built shed, asserting his intention to stay there until harvest, earn money, and marry Yin Zi, regardless of his mother's approval.
Following Fei Zuoshi's advice, Glutton Fei began observing other permanent tenants. He soon uncovered that Ning Xuexiang's permanent tenancy agreements were merely a charade, a facade designed to impress others. He immediately reported this deception to Fei Zuoshi. Fei Zuoshi then visited Tietou in the fields, ostensibly to inspect her land, but in reality, to inform him of Ning Xuexiang's fake permanent tenancy. She urged Tietou, in his capacity as the head of the Farmers' Association, to investigate the matter.
Enraged by the revelation, Tietou confronted Ning Xiuxiu, accusing her of conspiring with her father. Ning Xiuxiu, however, was genuinely shocked and denied any knowledge of the fraudulent agreements. Simultaneously, a servant notified Fei Wendian that Ning Susu was unwell, having found blood on her stool after reading. Fei Wendian immediately rushed to her side and sent for a doctor.
Episode 18 Recap
Ning Susu suddenly experienced bleeding, leading Fei Zuoshi to believe she had suffered a miscarriage. She anxiously questioned a doctor, who, admitting his limited medical skills, informed her that Susu was not pregnant and showed no signs of miscarriage; the bleeding was merely her period. Fei Zuoshi found this impossible, arguing that Susu hadn't had her period for a long time and was even showing.
The doctor explained that some women, believing themselves pregnant, may experience delayed periods, and a lack of activity combined with overeating can lead to weight gain appearing as a baby bump. Refusing to accept this, Fei Zuoshi sent Qing to find Doctor Huo, but Qing reported that she had already tried him first and he had retired to the county town and closed his practice.
Fei Zuoshi was stunned, while a terrified Ning Susu insisted she didn't mean for this to happen and didn't know what was going on. Tietou, having learned that Ning Xuexiang's promise of permanent tenancy rights was fraudulent, initially confronted Ning Xiuxiu, mistakenly believing she had advised Ning Xuexiang on this. He expressed his long-held suspicion that something was off, lamenting that he finally understood what had happened. He worried that Fei Zuoshi might revoke his permanent tenancy rights.
Ning Xiuxiu, unaware of her father's scheme, countered by stating there was no point asking her if he already believed she would side with her father. Tietou then begged Ning Xiuxiu for help, handing her a letter written by Du Chunlin, admitting he couldn't read its contents. Feng Dajiao, who was present, interjected, scolding Tietou for his disrespect towards Ning Xiuxiu and demanding an apology.
Tietou apologized, and Ning Xiuxiu, seeing his distress, instructed him to take the letter to Ning Kejin on behalf of the Farmers' Association. Tietou journeyed to the county town to find Ning Kejin, conspicuously carrying a large Farmers' Association flag that Ning Xiuxiu had embroidered for him. Kuangzi, Ning Kejin's man, announced Tietou's arrival, noting the flag. Ning Kejin, surprised, invited Tietou in.
Tietou presented Du Chunlin's letter, emphasizing that he had memorized every word and warning that if Ning Xuexiang dared to deceive the Farmers' Association again, the county farmers' association would intervene, stating he wouldn't be able to control the consequences. Tietou then left. Ning Kejin delivered the letter to his father, Ning Xuexiang, who immediately grew concerned, fearing a forceful arrest.
Ning Kejin explained that the mastermind behind Tietou had deliberately left Ning Xuexiang room to maneuver by having Tietou come directly to them rather than immediately involving the county association. Understanding the gravity of the situation, Ning Xuexiang ordered Kuangzi to invite Tietou back, stating he had important matters to discuss. Later, Ning Xuexiang not only treated Tietou to drinks but also granted legitimate permanent tenancy rights to Glutton Fei's family and other previously tricked households.
Upon learning Ning Susu was not pregnant, Fei Zuoshi was heartbroken. She refused to speak to Susu, or eat or drink anything. Fei Wendian, observing her distress, asked a servant about her condition, who confirmed that Fei Zuoshi had refused to eat. Ning Susu, on the other hand, had eaten but continued to cry. Meanwhile, Tietou, overjoyed that his wish had been fulfilled, excitedly came to thank Ning Xiuxiu.
He lauded her as "something else" and "totally impressed," recounting how Ning Xuexiang had respectfully returned Du Chunlin's letter, treated him to drinks, and confirmed that all the previously fake permanent tenancies, including Glutton Fei's, had been made legitimate, ensuring no one would take his land again.
Feng Dajiao, worried about Ning Xuexiang's potential retaliation against Ning Xiuxiu for exposing his deception, questioned what she had done, to which Ning Xiuxiu nonchalantly replied that she had always suspected something was amiss and Tietou's actions had revealed the truth. When Feng Dajiao expressed concern that her father would come after her, Ning Xiuxiu boldly declared, "Let him come, I have questions for him anyway." Feng Dajiao, weary of the ongoing feud, then returned to his work.
Ning Susu grew increasingly angry. She confronted Fei Wendian, demanding he return to their room to sleep with her. She argued that her not being pregnant this time was unintentional, and she genuinely thought she was. She complained that Fei Zuoshi was acting as if she would never get pregnant again, but Ning Susu vowed that if she didn't get pregnant this time, she would next time.
Fei Wendian gently told her to calm down, explaining that "this isn't something to rush." He then asserted that they "can't keep making the same mistake," clearly implying he did not want to continue their marriage. Fei Wendian then visited Fei Zuoshi, urging her not to blame Ning Susu. He kindly offered to get his sister-in-law some food, noting she hadn't eaten all day.
Fei Zuoshi, however, reiterated her anger, stating she felt a stabbing pain in her ribs just thinking about the situation. Fei Wendian then announced his intention to return to school, explaining that Susu no longer needed his company and he had important matters to attend to there. Fei Zuoshi, though upset, acknowledged she couldn't make him stay and wished him well. Fei Wendian then spoke to Ning Susu directly, telling her he was leaving for school.
He reiterated his belief that their relationship was "wrong from the beginning" and encouraged her to make plans for her own bright future. After his confession, he packed his belongings and departed. Ning Susu rushed out to chase him, calling his name, but he was already too far away. Unwilling to remain at the Fei residence, Ning Susu packed a few clothes and returned home. She poured out her grievances to her father, Ning Xuexiang, and brother, Ning Kejin.
Ning Xuexiang had just learned from Ning Kejin that Fei Zuoshi was the mastermind behind Tietou's previous agitation regarding the permanent tenancies, making them resent her deeply. When Ning Susu tearfully explained that she wasn't pregnant, and that Fei Zuoshi had subsequently ignored her, serving her barely edible meals and causing Fei Wendian to leave, Ning Xuexiang was enraged. He vowed to settle all old and new scores with Fei Zuoshi.
Humpback Guo, on his way to town with his donkey cart to get supplies, encountered Feng Dajiao. After exchanging pleasantries, villagers began shouting that press gangs were coming. Soon, Village Chief Ning Xuewu arrived with soldiers to conscript men. Humpback Guo and Feng Dajiao, not wanting to be conscripted, ran, but were surrounded.
The soldiers ordered all young men to the village committee for registration, threatening severe punishment for evaders and their families, and even arresting Ning Xuewu for failing to meet the quota. To escape, Humpback Guo pretended to be a hunchback, while Feng Dajiao feigned being deaf and mute. Ning Xuewu helped them by confirming their ailments. The soldier, after examining them, dismissed them.
Humpback Guo, seeing Feng Dajiao reveal he could hear, insisted that going back to the village was no longer an option, as they would be caught. He offered Feng Dajiao a job for half a month, promising cash payment, highlighting that Feng Dajiao was a good helper and that heaven had sent him to help.
Feng Dajiao, worried about his parents and Ning Xiuxiu, hesitated, but Humpback Guo convinced him not to worry, noting Feng Er had seen them together and would likely inform Ning Xiuxiu, and promising to send a message. Feng Dajiao, fearing conscription, reluctantly agreed and left with Humpback Guo for the city to lay low. As soldiers roamed the village capturing men, the villagers panicked. Tietou and Zhuzi quickly packed their belongings to flee.
Tietou asked Ning Xiuxiu if she had seen Feng Dajiao, and she told him Feng Dajiao had gone to the fields early, but the fields were now empty. She explained that press gangs were coming from the west, seizing every man they saw. Ning Xiuxiu, worried about Feng Dajiao, decided to seek help from Ning Kejin, hoping his militia men could help search.
Meanwhile, Zhuzi remembered that soldiers wouldn't conscript militia members, so he pulled Tietou along to seek refuge with Ning Kejin. Unexpectedly, Niwei was also hiding there. Ning Kejin, not wanting to invite trouble, ordered his men to drive all three of them away, stating that all his militia members were already registered and accounted for.
Ning Xiuxiu pleaded for Tietou and Zhuzi, but Ning Kejin remained firm, explaining that he and his father had paid off the soldiers to not conscript their registered men, and he couldn't risk harboring unregistered individuals. Just then, a team of soldiers arrived to search the militia grounds. Ning Kejin quickly offered them tea, and Ning Xiuxiu served the officer.
The officer, initially complaining about the quality of the tea, accepted better tea when offered and then stated his superior's new requirement: to ensure the militia's headcount matched their register, as they suspected men might be hidden among them. Ning Kejin, having already paid off the soldiers and stating that all his registered men were present, discreetly handed the officer some silver dollars, hoping to dismiss him.
However, the officer then announced he also needed to take attendance and copy the register. Ning Kejin feigned forgetfulness about the register's location, blaming his men. He offered to write down names as the men called them out, but the officer suspected stalling and insisted on the official register. Ning Kejin, pretending to scold his man, ordered him to fetch the register. Ning Xiuxiu, quick-thinking, had secretly added the names "Wang Zhuzi," "Wan Yier," and "Li San" to the roster.
As the officer began calling names, Zhuzi responded when his name was called. When "Wan Yier" was called, Tietou quickly claimed the name, and when "Li San" was called, Niwei, visibly trembling from fear, was prompted by Ning Kejin to say his full name, explaining that "Niwei" was just his nickname and his real name was Li San. The officer, still suspicious of Niwei's demeanor, made a sarcastic remark about his name.
Despite the officer's initial doubts and suspicions, Ning Kejin's quick wit and another five silver dollars successfully defused the situation, and the soldiers departed without discovering the hidden men. Ning Kejin, proud of their cunning escape, commented to Ning Xiuxiu about the cost. Ning Xiuxiu admitted she was the one who added the simplified names to the roster, explaining the quick thinking required under pressure. Tietou thanked Ning Xiuxiu, curious about the name "Wan Yier."
Ning Kejin also praised Ning Xiuxiu for her cleverness in saving the three men. Worried about Feng Dajiao, Ning Xiuxiu, Tietou, Zhuzi, and Niwei immediately set out to search for him in the fields. Feng Er and his wife also joined the search. They found Feng Dajiao's hoe in the fields, prompting Ning Xiuxiu to worry that something terrible had happened, as he would never abandon his hoe. After searching everywhere, they still had no news of Feng Dajiao.
Feng Er's wife, distraught, suggested Feng Dajiao might have been conscripted, noting that the press gangs were "like mad dogs" and had taken everyone who could lift a gun. Later, Feng Dajiao's mother informed Ning Xiuxiu that the village was abuzz with news that Ning Susu's pregnancy was fake, leading to Fei Wendian's departure and Ning Susu's return home. This new crisis added to Ning Xiuxiu's distress over Feng Dajiao's disappearance.
The next morning, Ning Xuexiang drove Ning Susu to the Fei residence to confront Fei Zuoshi and demand justice. He accused Fei Zuoshi of mistreating Ning Susu and kicking her out, claiming his daughter was a doted-on treasure at home but was barely fed at the Fei household. Fei Zuoshi, feigning innocence and citing her recent illness, denied knowing Susu had returned home and insisted that the villagers knew how well she normally treated Susu.
She asserted that her family matters were their own business and that her land rentals were not subject to blackmail. Ning Xuexiang, however, countered that Fei Zuoshi was responsible for his losses related to the permanent tenancy rights, accusing her of provoking Tietou. He demanded five mu of land for Ning Susu as compensation and to save face for her return.
Fei Zuoshi scoffed at this, sarcastically remarking on how "precious" Ning Xuexiang's daughter was to earn five mu of land just by going home, suggesting his ancestors had acquired their land in a similar fashion. She flatly refused his demand and told him to take Ning Susu back home, ordering her servant to help Ning Susu out of the carriage. Ning Xuexiang, however, forbade Susu from leaving the carriage until the matter was settled.
Just then, Ning Xiuxiu arrived, stepping in to rescue Ning Susu. She berated both Ning Xuexiang and Fei Zuoshi for arguing over their own interests and sacrificing her sister's feelings. Ning Xiuxiu took Ning Susu away, declaring she would take her sister herself. As Ning Xuexiang turned to leave, Fei Zuoshi ordered her servant to close the gates. Ning Xuexiang, however, protested from a distance that the matter was not yet settled.
Episode 19 Recap
Ning Xiuxiu brought her sister, Ning Susu, back home. Her mother-in-law, Mother Feng, informed her that Feng Dajiao was last seen leaving with Humpback Guo. Overwhelmed with worry and anxiety, Ning Xiuxiu fainted. Feng Er quickly called for a doctor, who revealed that Ning Xiuxiu was pregnant, bringing immense joy to Feng Er and his wife.
Despite the good news, Ning Xiuxiu remained concerned about Feng Dajiao and wanted to seek information from Ning Xuewu, but Mother Feng urged her to rest at home, assuring her that Feng Er's second uncle had confirmed Feng Dajiao was with Humpback Guo, who saved him from conscription by claiming he was deaf and mute. Ning Susu, meanwhile, missed the comforts of her former home, struggled with the plain food, and was constantly hungry.
Ning Xiuxiu shared her own limited provisions, offering her dry rations, while suffering from severe morning sickness. Meanwhile, Feng Dajiao traveled with Humpback Guo. Humpback Guo spoke of his legendary ancestor, Guo Gangliu, a hero who, despite his martial prowess, chose a peaceful life for his descendants, whose journeys were always safe due to his enduring reputation. Feng Dajiao, confused by Humpback Guo's given name (Guo Guiyao) and his nickname (Humpback Guo), learned the latter was a mispronunciation.
They reached the sea, a sight that left Feng Dajiao awestruck, wishing the vast ocean were instead an endless field for farming. Humpback Guo clarified it was the fishermen's land, teeming with fish, shrimp, and the very salt they sought. Humpback Guo then went to meet local salt merchants, while Feng Dajiao explored the town. He found a washbasin and spent two silver dollars to buy it for Ning Xiuxiu, paying a deposit to reserve it.
That evening, Humpback Guo took Feng Dajiao to see a singer named Lulu. Lulu, noting Feng Dajiao's silence, remarked on his supposed deafness and muteness. When Feng Dajiao tried to leave, Lulu demanded payment for her performance, which Feng Dajiao refused, arguing he hadn't asked her to sing. Back at the Feng household, Ning Xuewu sent his son, Ning Kebi, to deliver an update: Feng Dajiao was safe, avoiding conscription by traveling with Humpback Guo, and would return later.
Relieved, Feng Er instructed his wife to boil an egg for Ning Xiuxiu. Ning Xiuxiu, however, gave the egg to Ning Susu. Feng Er then lamented to his wife that the egg meant for their unborn grandchild was eaten by Ning Susu, much to his chagrin. Ning Susu, overhearing their complaints, felt embarrassed but Ning Xiuxiu reassured her not to mind the old couple's traditional frugality.
At the Fei family ancestral shrine, Fei Zuoshi solemnly vowed to ensure Fei Wendian produced an heir for the family line. She then arrived at the Feng home with a forced smile, intending to take Ning Susu back. Ning Xiuxiu firmly refused, standing up for her sister and criticizing Fei Zuoshi for abandoning Ning Susu the day before, regardless of the false pregnancy.
She asserted that Ning Susu was a human being and a daughter-in-law, not merely a tool for procreation, and would not be subjected to a life of subservience. Fei Zuoshi tried to explain that Ning Xuexiang's anger was directed at her over the Farmers' Association, claiming he used Ning Susu as a pawn, and that she had never truly mistreated Susu. Mother Feng advised Ning Xiuxiu not to meddle in others' family affairs.
Ning Xiuxiu, however, insisted she had taken in a wronged sister and would support her indefinitely if she chose not to return. Unexpectedly, Ning Susu decided to return with Fei Zuoshi, but not before asking Fei Zuoshi for a silver dollar. She then gave the coin to Uncle Feng Er, declaring it was for the egg, enough to buy a whole basket for his grandson, a pointed gesture that left Feng Er speechless.
As Ning Susu departed with Fei Zuoshi, Mother Feng remarked on Fei Zuoshi's cunning and success in getting Susu to return, concluding that she too would have gone back. The next morning, Humpback Guo roused Feng Dajiao early for a trip to the salt flats, which Feng Dajiao soon realized involved acquiring untaxed salt. They boarded a boat with Lulu's younger brother, Xiaohu. Feng Dajiao suffered from severe seasickness.
Before reaching the salt flats, they were required to pay a "passage fee," which Xiaohu explained was a payment to ensure smooth passage and access to untaxed salt, effectively confirming they were engaging in smuggling. At the salt flats, they were instructed to only load loose salt, as whole bags were tracked by officials.
During the loading, Xiaohu feigned a sprained ankle and convinced Feng Dajiao to take the bag he had already filled onto the boat, while Xiaohu secretly grabbed another full bag and tried to flee. He was quickly apprehended by government officials and taken to the anti-smuggling camp. Feng Dajiao, distraught, blamed Humpback Guo for not intervening.
Humpback Guo calmly explained that such arrests were a staged part of the operation, designed to maintain appearances, and that Xiaohu would be released within days after a payment, as the anti-smuggling camp was essentially run by bandits in collusion with the smugglers. Still feeling guilty, Feng Dajiao went to Lulu to express his concern. Lulu, accustomed to the situation, reassured him that Xiaohu would be fine and usually Xiaohu himself discouraged her from spending money on his release.
Feng Dajiao secretly left her a few silver dollars, which touched her deeply. Meanwhile, at Chicken Ridge, Hu San plotted with Feng Si to raid the Ning family again, still resentful of Ning Xiuxiu's escape and wanting to recapture her. Feng Si proposed a plan to capture Ning Xuexiang for ransom, thus obtaining money twice. Hu San dispatched Feng Si, along with two bandits, Da Zong and Lao Jiu, to scout the village.
Feng Si confidently declared they would enter openly, pretending to be vendors and his "nephews." Upon arriving in the village, they encountered Sanjin, whom Feng Si introduced Da Zong and Lao Jiu as his nephews, selling odds and ends. Feng Si boasted that his family would no longer go hungry now that he was back. He then explained the paths leading to the Ning family residence.
Back in the Fei household, Ning Susu, now back in her privileged routine, became restless under Fei Zuoshi's constant urging to write to Fei Wendian to come home. Annoyed, she feigned a visit to Ning Xiuxiu and slipped away. Ning Xiuxiu, meanwhile, was at home, reading to her unborn child, expressing her hopes for its intelligence and steadfast character, much like its father, Dajiao. Ning Susu arrived with a basket of treats: peanuts, longan, and dates.
Ning Xiuxiu and Ning Susu then decided to take a walk. From a distance, they spotted Feng Si with two unfamiliar men. Ning Xiuxiu immediately recognized the two men as Chicken Ridge bandits, declaring she'd know them even if they were ashes. She urgently instructed Ning Susu, who was a faster runner, to rush and find Ning Kejin and the militia to warn them about Feng Si and the bandits.
Ning Xiuxiu hurried back home to confirm with Feng Er if he had any nephews or distant relatives, to which he replied negatively. Convinced, she informed him that Feng Si had brought bandits into the village. Enraged by his brother's betrayal, Feng Er grabbed a hoe, intending to confront Feng Si, but Mother Feng restrained him, urging him to stay out of trouble.
Just then, Ning Susu returned, breathless, to announce that Ning Kejin had already sealed both village entrances and dispatched two teams to capture the bandits at Feng Si's house. Ignoring her brother's warning to stay hidden, Ning Xiuxiu and Mother Feng rushed to find Feng Si in the village. Feng Er confronted Feng Si, threatening to break his legs if he didn't send the bandits away.
Seeing their plan exposed, the bandits quickly seized Mother Feng as a hostage, forcing Feng Er to retreat. Ning Kejin and the militia arrived just in time. As Ning Kejin pointed his gun at Feng Si, Ning Xiuxiu intervened, pretending Feng Si had only returned to see his children, and pleaded with Ning Kejin to let him go. Ning Kejin agreed to a hostage exchange, offering himself for Mother Feng. He placed his gun on the ground.
As the bandits released Mother Feng, the militia opened fire, striking the bandits. Ning Kejin then ordered all three captured. Hu San, hearing the gunshots from the village, halted his bandit group. Ning Kejin interrogated Feng Si, who, under pressure, confessed that he and the two captured men were indeed bandits sent to scout the village. Ning Kejin immediately ordered his men to secure the village entrances.
He then sent a messenger to his second uncle, warning the entire village about the impending bandit attack: hide all valuables, and all women, children, and elderly should take cover, while all able-bodied men over fifteen should gather at the fortress walls and prepare for defense.
Episode 20 Recap
As the village bells rang out a warning, shouts of "The bandits are attacking us!" filled the air, spreading panic among the villagers. Ning Kejin quickly directed all men aged fifteen and above to gather at the west entrance of the fortress to defend their home. Ning Xuewu, accompanied by his son Ning Kebi, went door-to-door to spread the word, while Ning Xuexiang personally headed to the village entrance.
Ning Kejin had Feng Si brought before him, ordering him to demand the bandits' withdrawal. Feng Si defiantly refused, shouting insults and claiming that the bandits were there for revenge against the Ning family and would first target Ning Xiuxiu. Ning Kejin, enraged by Feng Si's betrayal and his continuous taunts about Ning Xiuxiu, ordered his men to beat Feng Si, tie him up, and hang him at the entrance as a warning.
He also commanded that Feng Si's wife and children be brought forth to witness the consequences of his actions. Feng Er arrived, seeing his brother Feng Si and his family confined. He pleaded with Feng Si to surrender and sever ties with the bandits, emphasizing the need to save his family. However, Feng Si remained unrepentant, only asking Feng Er to rescue his wife and children. Frustrated, Feng Er walked away.
Another captured bandit, Lao Jiu, was then hung up and pleaded with Hu San to retreat, claiming the villagers promised to release him if they did. Hu San, in a fit of rage, shot the rope holding Lao Jiu, then dispatched men to gather hostages from neighboring villages who were related to the people of Ox Temple Village. Hearing the gunfire, Iron Head quickly returned to see the village heavily besieged by bandits.
Hu San, using a loudspeaker, declared that his return was to reclaim Ning Xiuxiu, whose escape from Chicken Ridge had been a "shame" to him and his men, as she was the first woman to leave the stronghold untainted. He demanded that Ning Xiuxiu be handed over, threatening to defile all the women in the village if she was not. Ning Kejin, infuriated, retorted with his own loudspeaker, vowing to annihilate the bandits, a sentiment echoed by the rallying villagers.
In the village, Yin Zi quickly concealed their family's money. Wealthy elder Li Junyi helped villagers hide in the large sweet potato cellar. Ning Susu, worried about Fei Zuoshi, rushed home to retrieve her. Ning Xiuxiu also hurried to Fei Zuoshi’s house, insisting she and Ning Susu hide in the cellar. Feng Dajiao’s mother, seeing Ning Xiuxiu hadn't returned, worried and sent Yin Zi to find her.
Yin Zi located Ning Xiuxiu, and together they joined other women at the village entrance, mixing mud to reinforce the fortress walls. Meanwhile, Guo Guyao and Feng Dajiao, returning to the village, saw the bandit encirclement. Feng Dajiao hid his bathtub and dispatched Guo Guyao to the county to alert Du Chunlin for help. The hostages from the neighboring villages, forced to dig at the fortress walls, intentionally worked slowly.
Hu San noticed their sluggishness and fired a warning shot, forcing them to genuinely begin digging. As the walls were about to be breached, the militia on the fortress desperately urged their kin below to stop digging. Hu San opened fire on them, prompting Ning Kejin to order his militia to engage the bandits in fierce combat.
Unwilling to prolong the fight, Hu San announced over the loudspeaker that their leader, Big Nose Du, was arriving with reinforcements, demanding Ning Kejin's surrender and using the captured hostages as human shields. Ning Xuewu attempted to surrender against Ning Kejin's wishes, but Hu San refused, insisting that Ning Xiuxiu come out to negotiate. Enraged, Ning Kejin charged out with his men for a decisive battle. Hu San's men fired cannons, causing Ning Kejin to fall from his horse, injured.
Ning Xiuxiu and Yin Zi rushed out to bring the wounded back into the village. While trying to save a child, Ning Xiuxiu was captured by Hu San. Hu San threatened to kill the hostages if Ning Kejin did not open the gate. Ning Xiuxiu stepped forward, agreeing to negotiate with Hu San if he would spare the villagers. Feng Er brought a farewell drink for Ning Kejin, but upon learning of Ning Xiuxiu's capture, he became frantic.
He dragged Feng Si to the front, demanding he appeal to Hu San for Ning Xiuxiu's release. However, Feng Si shockingly urged Hu San to storm the village and dismember Ning Xuexiang. Enraged, Ning Xuexiang pushed Feng Si off the fortress wall. Ning Xiuxiu, threatening to take her own life, forced Hu San to release the villagers, which he reluctantly did.
As Hu San prepared to take Ning Xiuxiu back to Chicken Ridge, Feng Dajiao arrived, taking Hu San hostage and demanding Ning Xiuxiu's release. Hu San complied, allowing Ning Xiuxiu to return to the village, where Feng Er and Ning Xuexiang pulled her to safety. Feng Dajiao, ready to die alongside Hu San, stood firm. Feng Si, despite his injuries, struggled to his feet to assist Feng Dajiao but was shot dead by the bandits.
Seeing this, Feng Dajiao charged towards Feng Si. Ning Kejin ordered a full assault on the bandits. Just then, Guo Guyao arrived with much-needed reinforcements, and together, they successfully repelled the bandits, forcing them to flee.
Episode 21 Recap
Bandits, under the command of Hu San, retreated from Ox Temple Village. Afterwards, Feng Dajiao found Ning Xiuxiu and she joyfully revealed that she was pregnant, making him a father. Feng Dajiao, overwhelmed with happiness, asked her to pinch him to confirm it was real. He then mused about their future son, saying he would teach him how to farm. Ning Xiuxiu, reflecting on the day's terror, asked if he was afraid when he rescued her.
Feng Dajiao admitted he was, but his only thought was to save her, feeling as if fate intended him to be her rescuer. Ning Xiuxiu, tired of the constant danger, asked him to tell Heaven that this should be the last time. Ning Kejin then invited Feng Dajiao to a celebratory gathering that night, acknowledging him as a hero for fighting off the bandits. Feng Dajiao insisted Ning Xiuxiu was the real hero.
While Feng Dajiao attended the celebration with Ning Kejin, Ning Xiuxiu secretly released Feng Si’s wife and their two sons, Niwei and Meiwei, providing them with enough dry food to last a few days. Niwei, the elder son, swore vengeance against the Ning family for his father's death. Ning Xiuxiu urged him to prioritize his mother and younger brother's safety and to abandon thoughts of revenge. The three of them fled the village that very night.
After Feng Si's family fled, Feng Dajiao returned home, bringing a large red bathtub he had purchased for Ning Xiuxiu, which she loved. She was eager to hear about his experiences over the past ten-plus days. Feng Dajiao recounted his perilous journey smuggling salt at sea with Humpback Guo. The near-death experience made him realize the dangers of the outside world, reinforcing his desire to stay home and farm.
He gave Ning Xiuxiu the money he earned, and she set aside a portion for their unborn child. Feng Er had initially intended to plead with Ning Kejin to release Feng Si's wife and children, but his wife vehemently stopped him, fearing he would be implicated. Feng Dajiao then revealed that Ning Xiuxiu had already released them.
The next morning, Ning Kejin discovered Feng Si's family had escaped and dispatched Fei Wu to recapture them, vowing to kill them to set an example. Feng Si’s elder son, Niwei, managed to escape. Ning Kebi secretly informed Ning Xiuxiu that Feng Si's wife and younger son, Meiwei, had been recaptured. Ning Xiuxiu worried, and Feng Dajiao, reassuring her he would handle it, rushed to the militia hall with Feng Er.
There, Feng Dajiao and Feng Er pleaded with Ning Kejin to spare the innocent child, Meiwei. Ning Kejin, swayed by their and other villagers' appeals, agreed to release Meiwei into Feng Er's care. Separately, Big Nose Du had Hu San tied up and sent a message to him, warning him that Ox Temple Village was too strong, with both internal support and external aid, and was not to be targeted again. Hu San, feeling humiliated, acknowledged the message.
Meanwhile, Ning Xiuxiu used her new red bathtub to bathe Meiwei, showing him kindness and care. The villagers, now seeing Ning Kejin's benevolent side, advocated for Feng Si's wife's release, acknowledging her husband's wrongdoing but believing she and her son had suffered enough. Despite his initial reluctance, Ning Kejin, now acting as the village chief, granted a general amnesty.
Feng Si's wife tearfully knelt and expressed profound gratitude to the villagers for their compassion and allowing her to raise her son in the village. Away from the village center, Yin Zi toiled tirelessly, digging for wild vegetables, exhausted by the meager harvest. Tietou, watching her, expressed his desire to marry her after the autumn harvest.
Their tender moments were interrupted by Silly Tiao, a mentally challenged woman, whom Yin Zi gently braided hair for, despite Tietou's attempts to scare her away. Back home, Yin Zi found her younger siblings eating dirt out of hunger, a heartbreaking sight that spurred her to go out and dig for more food. The village faced a looming drought as the Beginning of Summer approached without rain.
Feng Dajiao discussed with his father, Feng Er, his plans to clear new land, knowing that with Ning Xiuxiu's pregnancy, there would be another mouth to feed. Feng Er worried about the harsh conditions but supported his son’s determination to find fertile ground. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Feng Er suggested they lead the villagers in a prayer for rain the next day.
The villagers gathered at the Ox Temple, reverently praying to Grandpa Ox and the four Dragon Kings for wind and rain to save their crops. During this time, Humpback Guo arrived in the village to sell his goods. He explained to Ning Susu that he had been away taking his wife, who suffered from a terminal consumptive disease, to the county for treatment. Ning Susu, despite her previous impatience, sympathized with him.
She then excitedly showed Fei Zuoshi the "novel items" she purchased: a parasol, lace gloves, a hand-held mirror, and a hand-held telescope. Fei Zuoshi, however, was more concerned about household finances and the lack of news from Fei Wendian. She decided it was time to teach Ning Susu how to manage the household, giving her ledgers for the shops and rent collection.
Ning Susu expressed her doubt about her connection with Fei Wendian, but Fei Zuoshi, grateful for Ning Susu not abandoning her during the bandit attack, reassured her to stay in the home and let future events unfold naturally. Later, as Ning Xiuxiu brought food to Feng Dajiao while he worked on a small patch of new land on Turtle Hill, she expressed her concern for his hard work.
Feng Dajiao, however, proudly showed her how he was painstakingly clearing small portions of land filled with rocks, believing that even small amounts of soil could yield crops. Ning Xiuxiu recounted Yin Zi's younger brother's accidental poisoning after eating Datura plants (mountain nightshade) due to hunger, noting its high toxicity but also its medicinal properties. Inspired by this, Ning Xiuxiu pondered the idea of growing salvia miltiorrhiza, a medicinal herb that could be sold for money. Feng Dajiao agreed, seeing the potential in cultivating herbs on the newly cleared land.
Episode 22 Recap
Glutton Fei's family, burdened by many children, had finally secured permanent tenancy rights to their land, but a severe drought made their lives even harder. His young son nearly died after accidentally eating datura plants. After much deliberation, Glutton Fei decided to migrate to the Northeast. His wife and children came to see him off, and Yin Zi gave him two wild vegetable steamed buns for the journey. Glutton Fei, tearful, bid farewell to his family, deeply moving the onlookers.
He promised them that the Northeast was rich with black soil capable of growing good crops and producing excellent grain, and he would return to bring them there where they would have more than enough rice, flour, and steamed buns. Yin Zi, though heartbroken, remained stoic, refusing to cry in front of others. Neighbors expressed their sorrow, remarking on the harshness of fate and the struggle to feed five mouths with a sick mother at home.
Meanwhile, Ning Xiuxiu discussed planting salvia miltiorrhiza with Feng Er, who strongly objected, arguing that the land was meant for sorghum, which provided sustenance, not medicinal herbs. Ning Xiuxiu countered that herbs could be sold for money to buy more land, citing an instance where she and her mother-in-law sold wild salvia miltiorrhiza for 30 cents. Feng Dajiao, however, supported Ning Xiuxiu’s ambition, promising to clear two mu of wild land for her to plant whatever she wished.
As Feng Er and his wife left, Ning Xiuxiu suggested to Feng Dajiao that instead of clearing land, he should accompany her to the county town the next day. In the county town, Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao visited various pharmacies. They entered a busy one where the shopkeeper, Chang Chun, a man from Anguo, was in distress. He had just realized that the twelve silver dollars from a recent sale were stolen from his old leather pouch.
Suspecting someone in the shop, he demanded a search of everyone present. Ning Xiuxiu promptly volunteered to be searched by an elderly woman, and both came up empty-handed. She then suggested the shop's clerks also be searched. A new clerk, visibly panicked, tried to flee, but Feng Dajiao swiftly caught him, revealing the stolen money pouch.
Chang Chun expressed profound gratitude, explaining his difficult journey as a herb buyer for his boss in Anguo and how losing the money would have cost him years of hard work. He offered Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu half of the money as a reward, but they politely declined, urging him to put his money away safely to avoid further trouble. As a gesture of goodwill, Chang Chun gifted Ning Xiuxiu a small item for her unborn child.
Ning Xiuxiu seized the opportunity to inquire about cultivating and selling salvia miltiorrhiza. Chang Chun, a walking encyclopedia of medicinal herbs, enthusiastically detailed the plant's extensive therapeutic properties, citing ancient medical texts. He affirmed her idea to grow salvia miltiorrhiza and promised to send seeds within half a month, which would be the optimal planting season.
Ning Xiuxiu then asked Feng Dajiao to keep their plan secret from his parents for now, especially Feng Er, to spare them worry until the seeds arrived. Following Glutton Fei's departure, Tietou frequently helped Yin Zi with her farming. Ning Xiuxiu later visited Yin Zi and discussed her idea of cultivating salvia miltiorrhiza. Yin Zi, though only possessing two mu of land, wholeheartedly agreed to dedicate 30% of it to grow salvia miltiorrhiza alongside Ning Xiuxiu.
Ning Xiuxiu also gave Yin Zi pastries from the city for her younger siblings. Yin Zi, deeply touched, confessed her struggles, admitting that despite her strong will, her family's circumstances made it difficult to persevere. She expressed how talking with Ning Xiuxiu, who possessed a "bright flame" of hope and determination, made her feel much more optimistic and clearer about her own path. They vowed to shine brightly together. Suddenly, Lulu arrived in the village looking for Humpback Guo.
Spotting Feng Dajiao, she immediately asked him for water. She recognized Ning Xiuxiu, greeted her as "sister-in-law," and tried to imply a close relationship with Feng Dajiao, who repeatedly denied it, stating he only knew her name and that she had a brother named Xiaohu. Ning Xiuxiu, recalling Feng Dajiao mentioning Xiaohu as Humpback Guo's temporary helper but never Lulu, offered to take Lulu to Humpback Guo.
Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao drove Lulu to Humpback Guo in their ox cart. Humpback Guo found Lulu a temporary, suitable house in the village. There, Lulu confessed to Humpback Guo her romantic interest in Feng Dajiao, revealing she had sent her brother Xiaohu to Qingkou specifically to pursue Feng Dajiao. As they left, Ning Xiuxiu stopped the ox cart by the roadside, seeking a private conversation with Feng Dajiao. She pressed him about his relationship with Lulu.
Feng Dajiao then recounted their history, explaining how he first met Lulu when she was singing and how he helped her rescue Xiaohu from the customs office. He expressed his strong discomfort with Lulu's persistent pursuit, stating he had no feelings for her and that her sudden appearance and attempts to get close were making Ning Xiuxiu uncomfortable. The next morning, Lulu found Feng Dajiao at the new land he was clearing on Turtle Hill.
She persisted in trying to charm him, even offering to buy him land, noting his family's apparent need for more acreage due to his arduous clearing efforts. Feng Dajiao tried to avoid her, repeatedly telling her he wouldn't accept her land and urging her to leave the village quickly. Exasperated by her insistence on "sticking with him," he packed his tools and walked away, choosing a long, indirect route home to avoid her.
Meanwhile, Feng Er, his wife, and Ning Xiuxiu decided to visit Feng Dajiao at the newly cleared land. Feng Er expressed his long-held desire to expand their family's 18 mu of land to 20 mu. The entire family joined forces to clear the land, quickly cultivating an additional two mu, making Feng Er extremely proud and happy that their family now owned 20 mu of land.
That night, Lulu, having paid Humpback Guo a month's rent for her temporary accommodation, arrived at the Feng household with lavish gifts to visit Feng Er and his wife. She dramatically knelt before them, declaring her intention to recognize them as her godparents to repay Feng Dajiao's kindness in saving her and Xiaohu's lives. Feng Dajiao was stunned, while his parents were utterly bewildered.
Lulu then launched into a sorrowful tale of her and Xiaohu's tragic past, having lost both parents at a young age and then their last remaining relative, their maternal uncle, shortly after relocating to Qingkou. Ning Xiuxiu, seeing the escalating situation, tactfully excused herself to "reheat the food." Lulu continued, expressing her desire to settle in the village, buy six or seven mu of land, and gift two mu to her new "godparents" as a token of filial piety.
Overjoyed by the prospect of acquiring more land without cost, Feng Er promptly instructed Feng Dajiao to prepare the side room for Lulu to move in, declaring that she could live with them. Ning Xiuxiu couldn't resist teasing Feng Dajiao about the situation. Despite the public show, Feng Dajiao privately vowed to find a way to make Lulu leave.
The next morning, Lulu complained about a draft in the side room door, prompting Feng Er to order Feng Dajiao to fix it. Ning Xiuxiu, deeply troubled, sought out Humpback Guo to inquire about Lulu. Guo, initially evasive, eventually admitted under Ning Xiuxiu's persistent questioning that Lulu had set her sights on Feng Dajiao. Later, while Feng Dajiao was begrudgingly repairing the side room door, Lulu hovered nearby, attempting to wipe his sweat, which he nervously dodged.
After Ning Xiuxiu left, Ning Susu also arrived to buy goods from Humpback Guo, who, once again, revealed Lulu's true intentions and actions to her. Later, Ning Xiuxiu confronted Feng Dajiao in the fields, urging him to quickly get rid of Lulu. She revealed that Humpback Guo had already found Lulu a room and she had paid a month's rent, exposing Lulu's lie to Feng Er and his wife about having nowhere to go.
Feng Dajiao reiterated that he had no feelings for Lulu, mentioning that he had already tried to tell her to buy her own land and build a house, which he would help with, just to get her to leave. Ning Xiuxiu, however, was adamant, declaring she couldn't tolerate Lulu for another day. She compared her marriage to a bowl, easily cracked, which even if mended, would never be the same.
She stated firmly that she would not regress to old customs, like polygamy, in the modern Republican Era. Feng Dajiao, agreeing that "whatever my wife says is right," suggested that they wait until Chang Chun delivered the salvia miltiorrhiza seeds and they finished planting them, then they would find a way to make Lulu leave. Meanwhile, Lulu, with her extensive experience from years of travel, quickly integrated into the village community. She charmed the local young women and wives, entertaining them with amusing anecdotes and stories from the outside world, making them laugh heartily.
Episode 23 Recap
Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu returned from the fields to find Lulu captivating a group of village women. Ning Susu excitedly showed Ning Xiuxiu a beautiful thread flower hair accessory that Lulu had given her, claiming it was a craft once exclusive to the palace. Ning Xiuxiu was visibly displeased by the scene. As villagers dispersed, Feng Er chimed in, saying he was just chatting with the "pretty girl" in their yard.
Feng Er, Lulu's newly recognized godfather, enthusiastically informed her that he had settled her housing and land matters. He had found an empty house for her, which she could use with a large deposit, and located six mu of land for sale in a nearby village, emphasizing that buying was better than building. Lulu was thrilled and, in return, offered Feng Er two mu of the land.
Feng Dajiao immediately interjected, arguing that Feng Er shouldn't accept Lulu's land, asserting that it was "someone else's land" and he had no right to take it. Lulu, however, insisted she was now their goddaughter and could offer it. Feng Er then explained to Lulu that Feng Dajiao was being polite. Ning Xiuxiu, concerned, told Mother Feng that Lulu was pursuing Feng Dajiao.
Mother Feng, initially shocked, declared she would never allow Feng Dajiao to take a concubine and vowed to tell Father Feng to make Lulu leave if she continued to pursue Dajiao. However, Father Feng dismissed his wife's worries, convinced that since Dajiao had saved Lulu and her brother, Lulu's intentions were pure and he was entitled to the land. Feng Dajiao then confronted his father, reiterating that he should not accept the land from Lulu.
Father Feng, amused, said Lulu's attraction to Dajiao only proved his son's good character and that Dajiao wasn't losing anything. He pointed out all the provisions Lulu had brought, implying they couldn't just kick her out after accepting her generosity. Ning Xiuxiu countered, acknowledging Dajiao's steadfastness but arguing that taking advantage of Lulu's affections by accepting her gifts and land felt like selling Dajiao himself.
She suggested that once the Turtle Hill grew medicinal herbs, all the money from selling them could go to buy the land for Feng Er, which would be a more honorable way. Father Feng was furious at the idea of growing anything other than grain on their fertile land. He angrily declared that as long as he lived, no "nonsense" like medicinal herbs would be planted.
He then vowed to plant sorghum on the entire Turtle Hill the very next day, visibly upset, and left the meal. Later, Ning Xiuxiu worried to Feng Dajiao that his father might actually plant sorghum. She reminded him that Chang Chun was supposed to deliver the salvia miltiorrhiza seedlings soon. She advised Dajiao to wait at the back hill while she returned home to monitor his father, cautioning Dajiao not to argue if his father truly insisted on planting sorghum.
Feng Er reported to Feng Dajiao and Ning Xiuxiu that Lulu, after much indecision about the land purchase, had abruptly left for the county in Humpback Guo's donkey cart without providing full payment for the land, leaving Feng Er waiting in vain. Concerned by Lulu's solo trip, Feng Dajiao had Humpback Guo confirm she went to the county. Meanwhile, Ning Susu, having finished with her account books, found Ning Xiuxiu digging wild vegetables on the back hill.
Ning Susu cheerfully praised Lulu, and on the way back, Ning Xiuxiu revealed Lulu's romantic interest in Feng Dajiao. Lulu then returned with a cartload of what she believed were salvia miltiorrhiza seedlings, having paid a high price after obtaining them from a "ghost market" and even injuring her head en route. The family, including Ning Xiuxiu, Yin Zi, and Feng Dajiao, rallied together to plant the abundant seedlings.
Even Feng Er expressed his frustration that Lulu had diverted her efforts from acquiring the land for him to purchasing these seedlings. Lulu attempted to appease him by reiterating her offer of two mu of land for his sorghum, but Feng Er was insistent on the immediate acquisition of those two mu. Mother Feng worried about how to repay Lulu's kindness.
Ning Susu, enraged, stormed over to Lulu, throwing the thread flower back at her and accusing her of trying to steal Feng Dajiao. Feng Dajiao tried to intervene, telling Ning Susu to go home, but she retorted that he was the last person who should speak, accusing him of protecting Lulu and having ill intentions towards Ning Xiuxiu. Ning Xiuxiu eventually managed to calm Ning Susu down and send her home.
Just then, Zhao Changming arrived, sent by Shopkeeper Chang Chun, who had a new store in the county and couldn't come himself. Zhao Changming apologized for the delay and brought genuine salvia miltiorrhiza seeds, offering to teach them how to plant. Feng Dajiao informed him they had already planted seedlings. Suddenly, Tietou rushed in with alarming news: all the newly planted salvia miltiorrhiza seedlings had withered and turned black despite being watered.
Zhao Changming, Feng Dajiao, and Ning Xiuxiu immediately went to investigate. Still furious, Ning Susu confronted Humpback Guo, demanding he drive Lulu out of the village, even threatening to stop buying from his shop. Faced with her persistence, Humpback Guo reluctantly agreed to go find Lulu. Meanwhile, at the field, Zhao Changming immediately identified Lulu's purchased seedlings as three-flowered Schnabelia, not salvia miltiorrhiza, explaining that their similar leaves could easily deceive the inexperienced.
Lulu, dismayed at having spent twelve silver dollars for nothing, insisted on confronting the swindler at his herbal stall in the county. Ning Xiuxiu, concerned for Lulu's safety, told Feng Dajiao he must accompany her. Feng Dajiao then enlisted Humpback Guo, instructing him to bring his cart and join them.
Zhao Changming presented Ning Xiuxiu with two books on common herbs, noting her literacy, and offered to teach her and others how to plant salvia miltiorrhiza from seeds, advising them to first clear the current dead plants and re-plow the field. Yin Zi and Tietou eagerly listened and helped, and more villagers were also keen to learn.
Meanwhile, Ning Susu, back home, recounted to Fei Zuoshi how she had confronted Lulu and tried to make her leave, even enlisting Humpback Guo's help. Fei Zuoshi advised Ning Susu not to meddle in others' affairs, but Ning Susu insisted it was family business, happily revealing Ning Xiuxiu's plan to plant salvia miltiorrhiza on the Feng family's twenty mu of land, emphasizing the higher profits compared to grain.
Feng Er, eager to plant sorghum on the two mu of land Lulu promised, discovered that she had only made a partial payment, and the seller refused to allow him to use it, even chasing him away. Feng Er then learned that Lulu had gone to the county in pursuit of the swindler. Upon their return, Feng Dajiao and Humpback Guo confirmed that the swindler had abandoned his stall and fled, taking Lulu's twelve silver dollars with him.
Lulu, confessing she had used the land money to buy the fake seedlings for Dajiao, now had nothing left. Feng Er was furious, questioning if their godfather/godmother relationship was for nothing without the land. Ning Xiuxiu, despite her personal feelings about Lulu, stepped in, stating that they were responsible for Lulu's loss since it was incurred for Dajiao's sake. She offered to borrow money to compensate Lulu.
Lulu, however, refused, insisting it was her own fault for being scammed and that she would earn the money back herself, despite Humpback Guo's skepticism about her ability to make money in the village with her "city skills." At the field, Feng Er, arriving with sorghum seeds, angrily stated that only sorghum should be planted and demanded they stop planting inedible herbs.
Ning Xiuxiu tried to reason with him, offering him a portion of the cleared land for sorghum, but Feng Er was adamant, demanding they stop. Feeling helpless, Ning Xiuxiu eventually told everyone to stop planting and disperse, leading Zhao Changming to leave. Meanwhile, Fei Zuoshi and Ning Susu visited Ning Xuexiang. Ning Susu excitedly shared Ning Xiuxiu's plan to plant salvia miltiorrhiza on all twenty mu of Feng family land. Ning Xuexiang, upon hearing this, became visibly enraged.
He directly confronted Ning Xiuxiu at the field, declaring that her plan was "unreliable business." He specifically warned Yin Zi, as his tenant, that Ning family land could only grow grain, not herbs, particularly salvia miltiorrhiza. He threatened to revoke Yin Zi's permanent tenancy if any herbs were found.
Ning Xiuxiu argued that his family rules did not apply to Feng family land, and even offered to relinquish her Ning surname, but Ning Xuexiang remained unyielding, warning her of divine punishment and disaster if she continued to plant herbs instead of grain. As Ning Xuexiang left, Mother Feng questioned why he was departing so abruptly. Father Feng, still fuming, sided with Ning Xuexiang, insisting they dig up the planted herbs and continue with sorghum.
Feng Dajiao, having heard everything, intervened. He acknowledged that the herbs were already planted and digging them up would be wasteful. He explained Ning Xiuxiu's point that the herb sales could yield enough profit to buy more grain than sorghum.
Feng Dajiao proposed a compromise: they would let this year's medicinal herb planting stand, but from next year onwards, all decisions regarding planting on the Turtle Hill would be entirely up to Father Feng, and he would not tolerate any further disputes.
Episode 24 Recap
Ning Xiuxiu felt indebted to Lulu and decided to repay her. She and Feng Dajiao went to see her brother, Kejin. Kejin was delighted to see her ask for help, acknowledging her stubborn nature and expressing his happiness that she finally asked for his assistance. Ning Xiuxiu insisted on writing an IOU for the twelve silver dollars she borrowed, believing in keeping clear accounts even among family.
Kejin offered more money, even from their father, but Ning Xiuxiu refused, insisting her brother's money was his own. Afterward, Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao visited Lulu. Feng Dajiao clearly distanced himself from Lulu. Ning Xiuxiu explained they were there to repay a debt, presenting fourteen silver dollars, which included the twelve for the scammed seedlings and a two-dollar deposit Lianye had recovered from Ning Xueshi.
Lulu only accepted the two-dollar deposit, claiming the seedling scam was her bad luck and she would bear the loss herself, as earning twelve dollars was not difficult for her. Ning Xiuxiu then pressed Lulu on her departure, asking when she would leave the Ox Temple Village. Lulu stated she was waiting for her brother, Xiaohu, to pick her up. Later, Ning Xiuxiu was delighted to see the red sage seeds sprout, celebrating with Zhuzi and his wife.
Ning Xiuxiu seized all opportunities to diligently learn herbal knowledge, finishing the herbal books Zhao Changming had given her and taking many notes. Zhuzi's wife expressed amazement that medicinal seedlings could yield more money than grain, and initially believed ancestors who planted them must have been wealthy. However, Zhuzi's wife then offered an alternative, suggesting ancestors might have planted them out of necessity because grain wasn't enough to eat, and medicinal herbs then provided sufficient income for food.
Ning Xiuxiu agreed that earning more money was the true importance. She promised to be the first to transplant the seedlings. Meanwhile, news spread that Glutton Fei, returning from an unsuccessful venture to Guangdong, arrived home weak and begging for food due to a locust plague and floods. His sudden return worsened Yin Zi’s mother’s already severe illness, leaving Yin Zi in despair. Soon after, Lianye rushed to Ning Xiuxiu, distressed and with a bruised forehead.
She revealed that Lulu had opened a gambling house in the village, and Kejin had become completely infatuated, losing all their family's money and even pawning Lianye’s gold jewelry. Kejin had pushed her when she tried to stop him and had not returned home all night, reportedly staying at Lulu’s. Ning Xiuxiu immediately went to the gambling house with Lianye.
Upon their arrival, Kejin, terrified of his sister, tried to hide, but Lulu encouraged him to stay, promising to handle Ning Xiuxiu. Lulu brazenly denied Kejin’s presence, challenging Ning Xiuxiu to search her room, even under her bed and in her blankets, threatening to publicly disgrace Kejin as village chief.
Unwilling to cause a spectacle, Ning Xiuxiu chose to preserve everyone’s dignity and simply told Lulu to relay the message to Kejin to go home quickly, emphasizing they should no longer have any contact with each other. Ning Xiuxiu then advised Lianye to seek help from their father, Ning Xuexiang, who was still out of town but expected to return soon. Ning Xiuxiu realized Lulu was still pursuing Feng Dajiao, using her brother Xiaohu as an excuse to stay.
She couldn't stand by while Kejin spiraled further into gambling. Ning Xiuxiu had already tried confronting Lulu, but Lulu was hostile. Ning Xiuxiu then implored Feng Dajiao to convince Lulu to leave Ox Temple Village, believing that since Lulu was pursuing him, his words might have more effect. Feng Dajiao was reluctant to get involved, as he wanted to avoid Lulu after the trouble she had already caused their family.
However, after Ning Xiuxiu’s persistent soft persuasion, and her gentle taunt about women from all directions coming for him, he agreed to go to Lulu the next day. The following morning, Feng Dajiao went to the gambling house and urged Kejin to go home. Seeing Feng Dajiao, Lulu’s spirits lifted, and she invited him into a room, offering him a drink. Feng Dajiao firmly refused, insisting she shut down the gambling house and leave, calling it an improper business.
Lulu refused to comply, explaining she needed to earn back what she had lost to help Xiaohu get married and build a house, stating she only ran a gambling house and took a cut. Feng Dajiao accused her of harming people with her business and questioned if her waiting for Xiaohu was merely a pretense.
After Feng Dajiao pressed her to leave, Lulu, though noting he seemed more concerned for Ning Xiuxiu’s comfort than his own, proposed a deal: if he would drink a pot of liquor with her, she would leave. Left with no other choice, Feng Dajiao reluctantly agreed. Meanwhile, Zhuzi, having lost all his money gambling, returned with an antique bottle, claiming it was from the palace, hoping to pawn it for more funds.
Inside, Feng Dajiao drank heavily, repeatedly urging Lulu to leave. However, Lulu, seeing his inebriation, went back on her word and refused to depart. Enraged, Feng Dajiao, fueled by alcohol, overturned the gambling table and stormed out, yelling for them to gamble. Ning Xiuxiu waited anxiously for Feng Dajiao, who did not return.
Zhuzi, in a desperate attempt to continue gambling, tried to steal the land deed, only to be caught and violently pursued by his wife, who wielded a knife and accused him of stealing their family's precious dowry bottle to gamble and then getting it smashed. In his frantic escape, Zhuzi revealed that Feng Dajiao had gotten drunk with Lulu, overturned the table, and then fled.
Soon after, Lianye rushed to Ning Xiuxiu, reporting that Ning Xuexiang had returned and was on his way to the gambling house to confront Kejin. Ning Xiuxiu accompanied Lianye, hoping to find Feng Dajiao there. At the gambling house, Ning Xuexiang stormed in, brandishing a large stick, ready to strike Kejin without explanation, calling him an ungrateful, profligate dog. Lulu intervened, trying to calm the enraged Ning Xuexiang. Ning Xuexiang dragged Kejin out by his ear.
But Lulu demanded that Ning Xuexiang repay all of Kejin's gambling debts and the damages caused by Ning Xuexiang and Feng Dajiao, threatening to move into their home if he refused. Ning Xuexiang vehemently denied any responsibility. Ning Xiuxiu seized the opportunity to ask Lulu about Feng Dajiao’s whereabouts. Lulu, maliciously, claimed Feng Dajiao was drunk and asleep in her room and dared Ning Xiuxiu to go in and see.
Realizing Feng Dajiao was likely too embarrassed to return home drunk and that Lulu was intentionally provoking her, Ning Xiuxiu gathered Feng Er and his wife (Feng Dajiao's parents) to search for him. After searching extensively, they finally found Feng Dajiao lying unconscious in the street. Lulu soon appeared, and Ning Xiuxiu, furious, confronted her, accusing her of intoxicating an honest, straightforward man and asking if she was satisfied seeing him suffer.
Ning Xiuxiu then challenged Lulu to a drinking contest, proposing that if Lulu lost, she would leave the village, but if Ning Xiuxiu lost, Feng Dajiao would be Lulu's. Lulu confidently accepted the challenge, agreeing to meet the following evening at Turtle Hill, each bringing their own liquor, stating that whoever didn't come was a dog. The next day, Ning Xuexiang asked his helper, Kuangzi, about Kejin's behavior, being reassured that his son was now staying home and behaving.
Ning Xuexiang then became preoccupied with a faint, "strange" fragrance on his clothes, which Kuangzi claimed not to smell. He later visited his hired laborers, including Li Datou, a tenant, who was trying to earn money for corn seeds. Ning Xuexiang refused Li Datou's request for higher wages, asserting that as a tenant, he should work for free and that there were plenty of others if he refused.
Ning Xuexiang then took the leftover steamed buns, leaving the laborers with less food. Lulu, meanwhile, worried about the dwindling number of gamblers, as Ning Xuexiang’s recent disruption had scared off Kejin and many other men whose wives had forced them back to their farm work. Later, Ning Xuexiang encountered Yin Zi digging wild vegetables on his land.
He initially teased her, giving her a flower and taking one from her, but then allowed her to continue, promising to prevent Kuangzi from chasing her away. He then offered her some steamed buns and took the opportunity to touch her inappropriately, causing Yin Zi to run away in fear.
When Yin Zi’s younger sibling reported their mother was struggling to breathe, Ning Xuexiang sent medicine and dried sweet potatoes to Yin Zi's family via Kuangzi, instructing Yin Zi to request more money from him for future medical needs.
Soon after, Tietou secretly brought Yin Zi a small bag of cornmeal, but his mother discovered it and publicly berated Yin Zi, accusing her of enticing Tietou to steal grain and of being a temptress who should find a man who could feed her entire family. Yin Zi, deeply hurt, ran home in tears, watching her siblings joyfully eat the sweet potatoes while silently enduring her own pain.
That evening, Ning Xiuxiu and Lulu met at the agreed spot for their drinking contest. Ning Xiuxiu built a fire, stating it would allow them to speak honestly. Lulu, with a hint of challenge, questioned if Ning Xiuxiu thought she wouldn’t dare come to her territory. Ning Xiuxiu suggested they swap liquor jars, explaining that Feng Dajiao had been completely incapacitated by a single jar of Lulu’s strong liquor, and she didn't want Lulu to suffer the same fate.
Lulu, suspicious, asked if Ning Xiuxiu feared her liquor was watered down, then dismissed Ning Xiuxiu's explanation as a futile attempt to intimidate her. They both agreed to drink from their own jars and to accept defeat gracefully.
Ning Xiuxiu then lifted her first bowl of liquor, downing it completely, expressing her heartfelt gratitude to Lulu for being righteous and buying the red sage seedlings for Feng Dajiao, acknowledging that she would always be indebted, regardless of the outcome of their contest.
Episode 25 Recap
Ning Xiuxiu and Lulu engaged in a spirited drinking contest. Ning Xiuxiu quickly downed a second and then a third bowl of wine. She expressed her profound respect for Lulu, appreciating her directness in pursuing Feng Dajiao rather than resorting to covert manipulation, comparing their rivalry to an honorable duel. Lulu, intrigued, challenged Ning Xiuxiu, asking if three bowls were enough to outdrink her.
Ning Xiuxiu clarified that these initial toasts were a gesture of respect and admiration, after which Lulu could set the terms. Ning Xiuxiu lauded Lulu for her bold spirit, her ability to love and hate without fear, and her decisiveness. She praised Lulu as well-traveled, a singer, helpful, and beautiful, stating that if she were a man, she would fancy her. Lulu, though flattered, wondered why Feng Dajiao hadn't fancied her if she was so good.
Ning Xiuxiu explained that fate had intervened; if Lulu had met Feng Dajiao first, perhaps things would be different. However, Ning Xiuxiu met him first, and he saved her life twice from bandits. She recounted how Feng Dajiao rescued her the first time when she was captured, acting as her unexpected savior when her own family and intended groom did not appear.
She then described how, after she married him in anger, he protected her dignity by placing a curtain between them, patiently waiting and silently showing his deep affection. The second time, when she felt utterly doomed and considered ending her life, Feng Dajiao appeared like a "heavenly soldier," disarming the bandit leader and saving the entire village.
Ning Xiuxiu declared that Feng Dajiao had become the shining light of her life, a man she could not live without, and vowed that they would be an inseparable family for all their days. She concluded by telling Lulu that a heart could only hold one person. Lulu confessed that Ning Xiuxiu had always been a mystery to her and that all her carefully laid plans to win Feng Dajiao had failed.
She recounted how Ning Xiuxiu's politeness initially made her doubt if her intentions were seen through, pushing her to further attempts, like becoming the goddaughter to Feng Dajiao's parents. She admitted her own internal struggles and even considered giving up. She acknowledged that even after she unwittingly brought fake herb seedlings, Ning Xiuxiu did not expose her, knowing all along that Lulu's true aim was Feng Dajiao. Lulu conceded that she was no match for Ning Xiuxiu.
Ning Xiuxiu, recognizing Lulu's emotional state, urged her to stop drinking for the sake of her child with Feng Dajiao. Lulu, deeply moved, expressed that if circumstances were different, she would want to swear an oath of sisterhood with Ning Xiuxiu. Since she couldn't have Feng Dajiao, that bond couldn't be. She admitted to secretly envying Ning Xiuxiu's good fortune but now understood that it was earned through struggle. Accepting her defeat wholeheartedly, Lulu declared she had lost.
Ning Xiuxiu then offered a drink of true friendship, suggesting they swap glasses. Lulu found Ning Xiuxiu's "wine" was just water. Ning Xiuxiu admitted the wine was fake, but her words were sincere: she could lose anything but Feng Dajiao. Lulu understood, marveling at Ning Xiuxiu's captivating nature. Ning Xiuxiu assured Lulu that just as fate brought her Feng Dajiao, it would surely send Lulu her own destined partner, who was already on the way.
Lulu playfully remarked that when he arrived, she would beat him and ask, "What took you so long?" The next morning, Lulu prepared to leave for Qingdao to find her brother, Xiaohu. Guo Guiyao came to see her off, offering her dried food for the journey. Lulu promised to abandon her gambling ways for a small business, to live a stable life with her brother, and help him settle down.
When asked about her own future, Lulu referred to Ning Xiuxiu's prophecy of a good man for her, expressing her intent to see if it would come true. After Guo Guiyao departed, Ning Xiuxiu questioned Feng Dajiao for not seeing Lulu off. Feng Dajiao explained that he had never given Lulu any false hope, so there was no reason to do so now that she was leaving.
Ning Xiuxiu commented that Lulu was not a bad person, to which Feng Dajiao agreed, emphasizing that his very reason for not encouraging her was "because" she was a good person. Ning Xiuxiu jokingly asked if that made her a bad person, to which Feng Dajiao lovingly called her his "shining hero."
He then pledged to take even better care of her, ensuring no one else could steal her heart, and reiterated that his heart only had room for her, vowing to always keep her happy and free from sorrow, promising a brighter future for them. Meanwhile, Glutton Fei's wife began to recover, able to sit up and eat thanks to the medicine provided by Ning Xuexiang.
Glutton Fei urged Yin Zi to go back to Ning Xuexiang for more medicine and some dried sweet potatoes. Yin Zi firmly refused, reminding him of their mounting debt and questioning how they would ever repay it. Glutton Fei dismissed her concerns, noting Ning Xuexiang's recent willingness to lend and even offer sweet potatoes, despite previous rejections. Yin Zi, however, was wary, fearing they would be unable to repay Ning Xuexiang.
Enraged, Glutton Fei accused her of wanting her mother and siblings to starve or die. Overhearing their argument, Yin Zi's mother, feeling like a burden, expressed her desire to die. Yin Zi quickly comforted her, promising to find a way to get the medicine. Feng Er spoke with Feng Dajiao, discussing the thinning of the salvia miltiorrhiza seedlings the next day and his joy at becoming a grandfather.
He noted the increasing expenses and how planting herbs was more profitable than grain, suggesting Ning Xiuxiu plant more next year and even convert their main field. Feng Dajiao reminded his father of his earlier opposition, to which Feng Er replied that one should never be too certain. Ning Xiuxiu expressed optimism that good days were coming, with the seedlings ready, Feng Dajiao's father happy, and Lulu gone.
Feng Dajiao gently countered that their current life, spent with loved ones, was already a good life. The next morning, the family discovered all the salvia miltiorrhiza seedlings had been dug up. Feng Er, overcome with shock and anger, immediately blamed Ning Xiuxiu, accusing her of bringing this disaster upon them. Ning Xiuxiu insisted she was as upset as anyone else and denied responsibility.
Feng Er further lashed out, attributing the destruction to retribution for planting herbs instead of grain, and then collapsed. Ning Xiuxiu confronted her father, Ning Xuexiang, who admitted to digging up the seedlings. Ning Xuexiang tried to usher her inside, but Ning Xiuxiu, who was pregnant, demanded an explanation on the spot. He recounted an ancient family rule from their great-great-grandfather, who had made a fortune from 300 mu of salvia miltiorrhiza.
However, on his deathbed, he had forbidden all future Ning family members from planting anything but grain, especially herbs like salvia miltiorrhiza, because the plant was "cursed" and brought "bloodshed." Ning Xiuxiu refused to believe him, asking why hundreds of mu would be burned if nothing truly happened. Ning Xuexiang explained that his actions were to prevent Ning Xiuxiu from making the same mistake.
Still confused, Ning Xiuxiu sought out her second uncle, Ning Xuewu, who confirmed that her father had spoken the truth. Ning Xuewu revealed that the great-great-grandfather's salvia miltiorrhiza was destroyed by a peculiar white fungus that targeted the roots, invisible on the leaves until it was too late. This forced them to burn the entire crop. Having invested everything, the great-great-grandfather incurred immense debt for seeds, seedlings, and labor, dying from the shock.
A fortune teller at the time had declared it divine punishment for defying heaven. Ning Xiuxiu declared that she did not believe in such curses and was determined to plant the salvia miltiorrhiza anyway, ready to bear any consequences on her own land, questioning Ning Xuexiang's right to interfere. Ning Xuewu advised her that she first needed to address her father's deeply rooted fear, as he would simply destroy the seedlings again.
He explained that their land was their lifeline, and her great-great-grandfather's bankruptcy from the previous disaster had instilled a fear in successive generations, including her father, who cherished the land more than life itself. Ning Xuexiang, her father, was simply afraid she would repeat the family's tragic past. Ning Xiuxiu, though hearing the explanation, still expressed her determination to plant the salvia miltiorrhiza, suggesting they replant the wilting seedlings to soothe her father. Feng Dajiao, however, urged caution.
He pointed out Ning Xuexiang's initial reluctance and then his drastic action, suggesting they appease both fathers by planting grain this year and discussing the salvia miltiorrhiza again next year. Reluctantly, Ning Xiuxiu agreed to postpone planting the medicinal herb. Meanwhile, Tietou went to Yin Zi's house but was refused entry. Frustrated and drunk, he vowed to marry someone better after the harvest, then changed his mind, yelling a drunken promise to marry Yin Zi after the harvest.
Later that night, Silly Tiao appeared at Tietou's shed, asking him to braid her hair. Initially annoyed, Tietou eventually complied. The next morning, Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao traveled to the county pharmacy. Feng Dajiao's mother had expressed concern about Ning Xiuxiu traveling while pregnant, but Ning Xiuxiu insisted on compensating Chang Chun for the destroyed seeds.
At the pharmacy, they encountered Zhao Changming, who informed them that Chang Chun had purchased the establishment with money from his new father-in-law and his own savings. Ning Xiuxiu apologized for the ruined seedlings, explaining that her father-in-law had dug them up, and offered to pay for them. Chang Chun refused any payment, saying it was common for first-time growers to encounter issues and that he considered it an "experiment."
He offered to send them more seeds or even seedlings whenever they wanted to try again. Ning Xiuxiu then asked Chang Chun about the specific disease that had plagued her great-great-grandfather's salvia miltiorrhiza crop. Chang Chun clarified that it was a white fungus, not an insect, that attacked the roots and was initially undetectable on the leaves. He invited them to a back room to discuss proper cultivation techniques, including ventilation and drainage.
Simultaneously, a chaotic scene unfolded at Tietou's place. Silly Tiao's parents arrived with relatives, accusing Tietou of getting their daughter pregnant and abandoning her. Tietou vehemently denied the accusation. Silly Tiao, when questioned, only repeated "Tietou, braid my hair." Her mother used this as "proof," claiming a mentally impaired person wouldn't lie. Tietou's aunt tried to intervene, highlighting Silly Tiao's mental state, but her parents were resolute, declaring Silly Tiao to be Tietou's wife and leaving her at his home.
Silly Tiao's father threatened to kill both Silly Tiao and her unborn child, and then himself and his wife, if Tietou did not accept responsibility, claiming they would haunt him. Silly Tiao continued to repeat "Tietou, braid my hair" and asked for buns. Tietou, trying to manage the situation, promised her buns and tried to calm her down. Later, Yin Zi's mother's condition worsened, causing great distress.
Glutton Fei returned from another attempt to borrow money from Ning Xuexiang, who had refused, citing their twelve silver dollar debt. Yin Zi's mother, distraught, again said she wished to die. Yin Zi, determined, vowed to find a solution and decided to seek help from Tietou, dismissing the widespread rumors about him and Silly Tiao. When Ning Xiuxiu and Feng Dajiao returned and heard the rumors, they immediately went to Tietou. Tietou clearly stated he had not slept with Silly Tiao and that his only interaction with her was braiding her hair.
