To Get Her Recap, Plot, Synopsis
To Get Her Synopsis
Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng were originally childhood sweethearts and lovers, but as Tu Siyi became an idol and became more and more popular, there was a gap in their relationship.
When Tu Suyi endorses an ancient game, he is accidentally trapped in the game and becomes the third prince of the game.
In order to save her boyfriend, Lin Zhengzheng enters the game as a player, but she finds that she has become the villainous wife of the third prince, and needs to assist Tu Siyi to complete the game task of winning the throne and ascending to the throne within the three life chances given by the game system.
The system empties his memory, so Tu Siyi regards Lin Zhengzheng as his nemesis, and is driven by his subconscious mind to be uninterested in the throne.
On one side is Lin Zhengzheng, who aims to win the throne and complete her mission, and on the other side is Tu Siyi, who is obsessed with music and wants to return to the countryside.
They start to "fight" against each other on their way to winning the throne, finally finding their love again.
To Get Her Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Lin Zhengzheng woke up in an elaborate chamber at Yingyan Brothel, dressed as a man with a fake mustache. Just as she began to stir, the old madam entered with two courtesans, Hong Ling and Lv Qi, eager to entertain her. Lin Zhengzheng, confused and struggling, accidentally knocked off her mustache, revealing her true identity as a woman. The old madam, believing she was there to cause trouble, ordered her caught.
Lin Zhengzheng managed to escape their grasp, only to find herself on the main stage where Tu Siyi, embracing a courtesan, was engrossed in a performance. In a fit of desperation, she cried out that she would kill him, but before she could do anything, Tu Siyi’s guards intervened and struck her down. This was merely a game, yet Lin Zhengzheng had only three lives to save Tu Siyi, and she had already carelessly lost one.
That day, in the real world, Lin Zhengzheng had been fuming. Tu Siyi, a popular idol, had failed to inform her about his concert at their alma mater and hadn't reserved a seat for her. After days of unanswered calls, she confronted him in an elevator, criticizing his busy schedule and public endorsements, especially when rumors about him and Mia circulated, creating the "Graffiti Couple."
Despite his past promise to always save a seat for her at his concerts, she felt neglected and, in a moment of anger, broke up with him. Later, heartbroken, Lin Zhengzheng reminisced through old videos of their journey from friends to lovers, remembering how she had supported him from obscurity to stardom. Unbeknownst to Lin Zhengzheng, Tu Siyi's consciousness had become trapped within "Highness Strategy," the game he endorsed.
The game, still in its test phase, was released prematurely by the company for quick profit, jeopardizing Tu Siyi's safety. Xiao En, a remorseful game designer, recognized the gravity of the situation. He discovered a concert ticket for Lin Zhengzheng hidden behind Tu Siyi's phone case, confirming her genuine affection for him. Believing she was the only one who could help, Xiao En secretly contacted Lin Zhengzheng at Seven-star Building.
He explained that Tu Siyi's consciousness was locked in the game and that she, as a player, must complete the game to free him. He warned her that once she entered, there would be no stopping, no hints from him, and that with only three lives, she faced real life-or-death stakes. Despite the immense danger, the realization that Tu Siyi hadn't forgotten their promise galvanized Lin Zhengzheng.
Without hesitation, she agreed to enter the game, leading to her first untimely demise. Awakening once more in Yingyan Brothel, Lin Zhengzheng found herself in the same room. This time, she carefully navigated the situation. The game system triggered, informing her of her identity: Third Princess Lin Zhen'er. Her main mission was to assist the Third Prince in ascending the throne, which would lead to the completion of the game.
Her new character boasted impressive stats in attractiveness, strength, intelligence, and economic capacity. When the old madam reappeared, Lin Zhengzheng cleverly pretended to be a frequent patron familiar with Hong Ling and Lv Qi, successfully dismissing the madam. She then swiftly subdued and bound the two courtesans, donned a woman's attire from their wardrobe, and fled the room. Downstairs, she found Tu Siyi, now identified as the Third Prince, meticulously guiding several courtesans through a dance performance.
The intimate, sensual movements mirrored the scene just before her first death, infuriating her. She bit back her angry words this time. Suddenly, a true assassin appeared. Without a second thought, Lin Zhengzheng rushed forward, shielding the Third Prince. The assassin, upon seeing her, abruptly halted the attack and fled. Lin Zhengzheng pursued the assassin and cornered him. To her shock, the assassin revealed that the attack was orchestrated by Lin Zhen'er herself.
To avoid exposing her true identity and the fact that a new "soul" occupied Lin Zhen'er's body, Lin Zhengzheng quickly fabricated an excuse about a change of plans and sent the assassin away. Shortly after, the Third Prince and his guards arrived. Lin Zhengzheng tried to approach him, but the Third Prince was distant and spoke with a cold formality, clearly not recognizing her.
It became apparent that in this game world, Tu Siyi had no memory of their life together; he was solely the Third Prince. Desperate to reawaken his memories, Lin Zhengzheng decided to sing one of their old songs. However, her singing was so off-key that the Third Prince, unimpressed, summarily ordered her off his carriage. Despite this setback, Lin Zhengzheng solidified her understanding of her primary mission: to help the Third Prince secure the throne. She vowed to accomplish this task swiftly and escape the game.
Episode 2 Recap
Upon returning to the Third Prince's mansion, Lin Zhengzheng observed the grand facade but noted the timid demeanor of the servants, reflecting an atmosphere of fear. She inwardly remarked that the Third Prince, Tu Siyi, seemed vicious, contrasting with her own intention to be a kind and beautiful hostess, transforming the cold residence.
When she followed Tu Siyi into his chambers, he abruptly questioned why she was there, stating his preference for solitude and urging her to leave before he forcibly removed her. Lin Zhengzheng countered that they were a married couple who shared a room. She also pointed out the hypocrisy of his desire for solitude given that Shen Daifu was present.
Tu Siyi then instructed Mu Yan, Lin Zhengzheng's maid, to escort her to her own separate room, which was surprisingly far from his. Lin Zhengzheng was dismayed by the arrangement, lamenting the game's script for making a married couple sleep in separate rooms and criticizing Tu Siyi's coldness, which she felt would hinder her mission to help him ascend the throne.
The following morning, Lin Zhengzheng awoke early, determined to change the mansion's chilly atmosphere and win the servants' trust for her hidden mission. She attempted to show kindness to a skinny maid, Cai Die, and a disabled servant, A Fu, assuming their plights were due to Tu Siyi's cruelty. However, Mu Yan gently informed her that the maid's emaciated state and dark circles were the result of the original Princess's forcing her to drastically lose weight and forbidding her sleep.
Mu Yan further revealed that A Fu's leg was broken on the original Princess's orders, who blamed him for her recent cold. Lin Zhengzheng was horrified, realizing her in-game persona was a "murderer" who brought misfortune. Another woman then confronted Lin Zhengzheng, accusing her of killing Qiushui, whom she regarded as her own child. It was later revealed by a servant that Qiushui was merely a rabbit, cooked according to the original Princess's past instructions, clarifying the misunderstanding.
Shortly after, Tu Siya, Tu Siyi's younger sister, engaged Lin Zhengzheng in a martial arts confrontation, implying Lin Zhengzheng's arrogance due to her superior fighting skills. Mu Yan then presented Lin Zhengzheng with a detailed relationship diagram. She explained that since her marriage three months prior, the original Princess, a military descendant, scorned Tu Siyi for his love of music and lack of political ambition, especially after his recent horse-riding accident.
Tu Siya, despite being doted on by Tu Siyi, frequently clashed with Lin Zhengzheng, though she was always outmatched. Shen Daifu, a scholarly doctor, was a close friend of Tu Siyi but had been ridiculed by the original Princess for his "cowardice" in pursuing medicine instead of power. Mu Yan summarized the original Princess's notorious reputation in the capital: a beautiful woman with a "murderous heart" who had bullied countless people, causing others to sympathize with Tu Siyi.
She even mentioned a humiliating statue of the original Princess in the city. Overwhelmed, Lin Zhengzheng dismissed Mu Yan, seeking solitude. Soon after, an arrow with a rolled note attached pierced through her window, startling her. The note instructed her to meet at Yingcuisi Pavilion at 7 p. m. to discuss the details of an assassination. Lin Zhengzheng then recalled her previous game life's mission to assassinate Tu Siyi.
Meanwhile, Tu Siyi confided in Shen Daifu about strange new behaviors since his accident three months ago, including a sudden mastery of music without prior training, a newfound desire for public adoration, performing peculiar hand gestures, and an overwhelming sense of self-admiration. That night, Lin Zhengzheng found the assassins gathered at Yingcuisi Pavilion. The masked figures initially intimidated her, and the leader questioned her about sabotaging their previous assassination attempt at Yingyan Brothel.
Lin Zhengzheng, feigning knowledge of an ambush, asserted that she had saved Tu Siyi only because she knew he had set a trap. She cleverly described how a "spy" would act by not focusing on their tasks and looking around stealthily, which convinced the assassins that Tu Siyi indeed had undercover agents. Assassin Bai even recalled seeing several people looking at him. Believing her, the leader revealed their next plot: to poison the food in the Third Prince's mansion.
Alarmed, Lin Zhengzheng rushed back to the mansion. She intercepted Tu Siyi just as a maid was about to serve him water, knocking the cup from the maid's hands. She told the maid that she was too careless and declared that she would personally handle Tu Siyi's meals from then on. The next day, Lin Zhengzheng, eager to make amends, cooked a meal for Tu Siyi herself.
As he began to eat, she presented him with a pair of custom-made silver chopsticks, explaining they were to test for poison, given his noble status and the recent assassination attempt. She also warned him not to visit places like Yingyan Brothel again. However, Tu Siyi soon suffered from severe stomach pains and diarrhea. Shen Daifu quickly determined that Tu Siyi had consumed sprouted and undercooked potatoes, confirming that Lin Zhengzheng had inadvertently poisoned him.
Lin Zhengzheng profusely apologized to Tu Siyi. Despite the mishap, Tu Siyi, in a moment of reflection with Shen Daifu, suggested that Lin Zhengzheng's recent change in demeanor might be due to her being stimulated by his recent visit to Yingyan Brothel, believing she was deeply in love with him and had realized his value. Unbeknownst to Lin Zhengzheng, Tu Siyi inwardly declared that he would never fall in love with her. Later, Lin Zhengzheng returned with medicine.
Knowing Tu Siyi disliked bitter remedies, she tried to make the experience more palatable by comparing the medicine to fine wine and proposing a toast, calling it "sharing joys and sorrows." Just as they were finishing, Tu Siya arrived. She informed her brother that she had replaced all the cooks in the mansion due to the poisoning, considering the incident very serious. Lin Zhengzheng and Tu Siyi exchanged an awkward glance.
Tu Siya then reminded Tu Siyi that their father, the Emperor, would return from his southern tour the following day and would test them with a challenge. She urged him not to lose to his Second Brother. Tu Siyi, however, seemed indifferent, stating he had no desire to compete. Lin Zhengzheng, overhearing this, secretly resolved that his desire to compete was irrelevant; she would ensure he ascended the throne to fulfill her game mission and escape this world.
Lin Zhengzheng accompanied Tu Siyi to the Imperial Palace. While seated, she recognized the Second Prince across from them as one of the masked assassins, which unsettled her. Before she could ponder this, the Emperor arrived, announcing that he would test the princes after their meal. As the dishes were served, Lin Zhengzheng spotted Tu Siyi about to eat a dumpling.
Remembering the assassins' plan to poison the food, she impulsively used a silver needle to test the dumpling, which immediately turned black. Panicked, she shouted for everyone to stop eating and dramatically overturned the plates, including those on the Emperor's table. Princess Royal calmly explained that it was a special "Sesame Feast" to celebrate a bumper harvest in Chuxing State, and the sesame filling naturally caused the silver needle to blacken.
The Emperor was enraged by the disruption, reprimanding Tu Siyi for failing to control his wife and instructing him to learn from his Second Brother, Sicheng. Humiliated, Lin Zhengzheng admitted her mistake and, by order of the Princess Royal, was sent back to the mansion.
Episode 3 Recap
After the disastrous imperial feast where Lin Zhen'er's actions led to the Emperor's anger, Tu Siyi intended to comfort a dejected Lin Zhen'er. However, the Princess Royal intervened, sending Lin Zhen'er back to the mansion while instructing servants to escort her. The Princess Royal then took Tu Siyi to Jinxi Palace, expressing, "We haven't met for a long time. I miss you so much. Can you go to Jinxi Palace for a visit later?"
Tu Siyi, concerned for Lin Zhen'er, asked about her, but the Princess Royal assured him, "I'll let someone send princess back to your mansion. Don't worry about it." Lin Zhen'er was overcome with guilt, anticipating that Tu Siyi might be scolded because of her, making her even more dejected. Meanwhile, at Jinxi Palace, Tu Siyi, though displeased, was forced to entertain the Princess Royal and other women with a musical performance.
The women praised him, remarking, "Siyi is really gentle and talented. He's tall and handsome. This is the style of a prince." The Princess Royal specifically asked him to perform, telling him to "smile" for her, which he did with a forced grin. Back at the mansion, Lin Zhen'er, still upset, declared herself "as stupid as a pig" and lamented that she always brought bad luck to her husband.
Her maid, Mu Yan, tried to console her, but Lin Zhen'er mused that Mu Yan was too honest to survive long in a drama, prompting Mu Yan to point out, "This exactly the third episode." Despite her frustration, Lin Zhen'er quickly regained her resolve, asserting, "I won't be defeated so easily," though she worried about Tu Siyi, anticipating that the Princess Royal, whom she deemed "hard to deal with," would criticize him severely at Jinxi Palace.
The next morning, Lin Zhen'er was preparing for a martial arts duel with Tu Siya, who, as the master of the Danhuang Sect, stated she had been waiting for two hours to fight and chastised Lin Zhen'er for her flippant "Egg pie?" remark about her sect's name. Their confrontation was interrupted by the arrival of the Second Prince and his wife, the Second Princess, who came to mock Tu Siyi.
The Second Princess immediately targeted Tu Siya, remarking, "Princess Siya remains a tough lady," and criticizing her masculine attire. The Second Prince, addressing Lin Zhen'er, questioned Tu Siyi's ability to manage his sister, saying, "Where's Tu Siyi? I asked you to teach sister well. Look at her dressing." The Second Princess added that Tu Siyi "can't do anything well." Lin Zhen'er swiftly defended Tu Siya, asserting, "Siya can wear anything as she likes.
You shouldn't judge her," and praising her fashion sense as "exotic" and reflective of the dynasty's "inclusive prosperity." She then turned her critique to the Second Princess, observing that her gown was ill-fitting and, taking a glance, remarked, "I feel you got fatter." As the Second Princess reacted in indignation, Lin Zhen'er feigned an apology, offering "honey bananas from Xianyun and dates from the north" as a peace offering.
When the Second Prince and Princess tasted the fruits, they immediately recoiled, exclaiming, "Why does it smell like shit?" and "It's indeed the smell of shit." Lin Zhen'er retorted, "There's smell of shit in your mouth." Just then, Tu Siyi arrived, stepping in to support Lin Zhen'er. He chided the Second Prince and Princess, reminding them, "We are all nobles. It's not good for us to talk about shit."
The Second Prince then accused Lin Zhen'er of witchcraft and challenged her by mentioning her late father, General Shengyuan, suggesting she no longer had a backer. Tu Siyi immediately declared, "I am her backer." He then asked Shen Daifu to examine the Second Princess, sarcastically commenting on her "smelly mouth." Shen Daifu, after a brief examination, professionally stated that the Second Princess had a "stable pulse condition" and her mouth would be "cleaner" after resting at her mansion.
The Second Prince then confronted Tu Siyi, stating, "I came here today to tell you I know what you are up to." He accused Tu Siyi of "playing a pig to eat tiger," pretending to love music to gain women's support, and criticized him for being "henpecked" and unable to control his wife.
Tu Siyi refuted the accusation, claiming that his relationship with Lin Zhen'er was harmonious, and that he merely "respects her," supporting what she likes and disliking what she dislikes. Humiliated, the Second Prince and Princess left the mansion. After the Second Prince and Princess left, Tu Siya expressed her gratitude to Lin Zhen'er, saying, "Thank you for speaking for me just now." Lin Zhen'er modestly replied, "It's OK. I was just telling the truth."
When Tu Siya asked if she truly liked her attire, Lin Zhen'er confirmed, "Yeah. It's very fashionable. It's much better than my many colorful garments," then offered to do Tu Siya's makeup. Initially reluctant, Tu Siya, despite being a martial artist, eventually accepted, allowing Lin Zhen'er to apply makeup. However, Tu Siyi entered and disapproved, telling Tu Siya to "remove it. What a mess. Go away."
Tu Siya protested, "It's normal that girls wear makeup," but Tu Siyi scoffed, "Do you even look like a girl? I'll help you remove it." Tu Siya insisted, "I am exactly a girl." Before leaving, Tu Siyi noticed a paintbrush on Tu Siya, sparking suspicion. Later that day, Lin Zhen'er apologized to Tu Siyi for her behavior at the imperial palace.
Tu Siyi responded with surprising gentleness, assuring her, "It doesn't matter," and that "there's nothing right or wrong between husband and wife," making Lin Zhen'er wonder about his sudden kindness. She thanked him for helping her with the Second Princess, to which he replied, "Don't be a stranger. I don't want hear 'thank you' again." He then invited her to have breakfast, asking if she had eaten, and telling her he had ordered many cakes.
During breakfast, Tu Siyi affectionately fed Lin Zhen'er, asking if it was delicious, and even offered to massage her head when she noticed he looked tired. Lin Zhen'er jokingly reminded him of their past playful interactions, but Tu Siyi remained confused by her "nonsense." He then asked her to "move back and live here from today," to which Lin Zhen'er happily agreed, promising to pack her belongings. However, Lin Zhen'er was called to a meeting by the Assassin Alliance.
The Second Prince, leading the alliance, enthusiastically praised Lin Zhen'er, calling her "an extraordinary talent in art of war" and noting their "better and better tacit understanding." He misinterpreted her disruptive behavior at the Sesame Banquet and her confrontation with him in the Third Prince's Mansion as clever tactics to "cover the fact that we're allies," allowing him to prepare for the Emperor's test and concealing their true intentions.
Lin Zhen'er, playing along, humbly accepted the praise, saying, "That's what I should do." Another assassin then brought up the failed poisoning, suggesting that if it had succeeded, they wouldn't have needed so many schemes. Lin Zhen'er swiftly corrected them, asking if they were "fools," and pointing out that Tu Siyi's sudden death would make the Second Prince the "biggest suspect," especially before the Emperor's return.
She firmly decided to "put off the assassination" and, understanding that to defeat the enemy she must first infiltrate their ranks and could not expose herself yet, assured them, "I know what to do about this." The Second Prince, chastising his subordinates to "read more books" and "learn more from Third Princess," allowed Lin Zhen'er to leave. That night, Lin Zhen'er brought her bedding to Tu Siyi's room.
Tu Siyi, who had been studying late, initially told her, "You go there to sleep first," indicating a separation. Lin Zhen'er, accustomed to Tu Siyi hugging her to sleep in her original world, felt a sense of longing, silently wondering if everything could return to normal if she could quickly finish the game. She then pretended to be scared and asked, "Your Highness, can I sleep beside you?" When Tu Siyi asked, "Why?"
she replied, "I'm a little scared," and assured him she wouldn't disturb him. Tu Siyi agreed, and they ended up sleeping until morning. The next morning, Lin Zhen'er greeted a still-sleeping Tu Siyi, reflecting on how precious it was to wake up beside him in this world, unlike in his celebrity life with countless fans.
After a servant announced breakfast, Tu Siyi woke Lin Zhen'er and, at the meal, showed her affection by picking out the egg yolks she disliked and feeding her. Tu Siya, who was also present, noticed a change in her brother, remarking, "Don't you think my brother's eyes are a bit different today?" Shen Daifu, interjecting with a medical explanation, was cut off by Tu Siya, who clarified she meant Tu Siyi's "warm" gaze.
Tu Siyi then announced, "Siya, Zhen'er moved back to my room yesterday," and instructed her to come directly to his room if she needed to see Lin Zhen'er. Tu Siya gasped, "You are living together?" Tu Siyi defended their decision, "Isn't it normal for a couple to live together?" Lin Zhen'er, feeling awkward, told Tu Siya, "Siya is still young. Do not tell her such details."
Tu Siyi continued to express that he had recently discovered "Zhen'er has many shinning points." Later, Tu Siyi confided in Shen Daifu, revealing that his affectionate behavior towards Lin Zhen'er was an act. He explained that the Princess Royal had told him if his relationship with Lin Zhen'er remained strained, the Emperor would force him to divorce her and marry the Princess of Huanyue State to gain power.
Tu Siyi recounted to Shen Daifu how he had protested to the Princess Royal that he didn't want to be a tool again, stating that his marriage to Zhen'er was political but they had "got along well" and "were familiar" now. The Princess Royal, however, presented a sketch of him and Lin Zhen'er sleeping in separate rooms as evidence of their poor relationship. Tu Siyi suspected that Tu Siya was colluding with the Princess Royal to monitor him.
Shen Daifu then warned him, citing medical texts, that "the act of pretending to love someone also determines your consciousness to love her," and that "love is a verb," implying his actions might lead to genuine feelings. The Psychic Festival arrived, a day the Emperor deeply revered, believing that if he moved the late emperor, the late emperor would manifest within the time it takes for a piece of incense to burn, offering guidance while wearing the dragon robe.
Tu Siya reminded Lin Zhen'er to bow her head, emphasizing the festival's significance. Lin Zhen'er, seeing this as a great opportunity, secretly slipped onto the altar during a gust of wind, dressed in the late emperor's yellow robes, while a courtier announced, "The late emperor made his presence." The Emperor urged the late emperor to "give directions," and an official wondered if this was "a prediction of the future Crown Prince."
Lin Zhen'er, acting as the late emperor, attempted to point at Tu Siyi, but the Second Prince strategically stepped in front, leading Lord Zha to declare, "Second Prince will become our Crown Prince." State Preceptor Sun expressed doubt, but Lord Zha insisted the prediction was infallible, being the "first time the late emperor makes it presence in thousands of years."
Lin Zhen'er desperately tried to re-direct, pointing frantically, but State Preceptor Sun, misinterpreting her actions, concluded that the late emperor meant "the two princes are both excellent and they will be pillars of the state." The officials echoed, "Late emperor is wise," and bid him "farewell."
After the ceremony, Lord Zha still argued to the Emperor that the late emperor's initial pointing indicated the Second Prince as the rightful heir, while State Preceptor Sun insisted his interpretation was correct based on "archaeological research."
The Emperor, tired of the debate, declared he would only trust State Preceptor Sun's interpretation, and announced to the Second Prince and Tu Siyi, "the two of you are most valued by me," affirming that "one of you will become the future emperor" and urging them to "perform well." Both princes accepted his instruction. Following the Psychic Festival, Tu Siyi confronted Lin Zhen'er, having seen through her disguise as the late emperor.
He angrily asked, "Do you know what you did?" Lin Zhen'er feigned ignorance, but Tu Siyi pressed, "It's you who pretended to be the late emperor at Psychic Festival. How dare you." He grabbed her, making her exclaim, "It hurts." He warned her of the severe consequences if her act was discovered, stating, "You'd be killed if it was found out by others. Do you know? All people in my mansion would get involved in it."
Lin Zhen'er tried to explain, "I just wanted to let you become the Crown Prince successfully." Tu Siyi, however, interpreted her actions as a continued obsession with power. He expressed his disappointment, saying, "I thought you had changed and were no longer obsessed with power. I didn't expect you're still a contemptible woman who's obsessed with power and dislikes that I can't be the Crown Prince." Lin Zhen'er retorted, "I am contemptible? All I did is for you."
Lin Zhen'er's true intention was to help Tu Siyi ascend the throne so she could take him out of this game world. However, Tu Siyi completely misunderstood her intentions, and she couldn't rashly reveal everything to him. Tu Siyi, furious, declared he did "not want to be the Crown Prince" and cruelly revealed that his recent affection was a sham: "I didn't mean to ask you to move back and my being nice to you is not sincere.
Do not care too much about it. I did it to show Princess Royal." He further added, "I just don't want others to bother me as you do so that I can study music." Heartbroken, Lin Zhen'er simply said, "Fine. Tu Siyi, I won't bother you any more," and began to leave. Tu Siyi yelled at her, "Go. Go now!" As she departed, he slammed the door, shouting, "Do you still want to come back to sleep?
I'm telling you, no way!" Lin Zhen'er, standing outside, murmured in disbelief, "I've never lived here." Shen Daifu arrived shortly after, finding Tu Siyi agitated. He advised Tu Siyi to rest early, commenting on how anger could lead to "liver fire." Tu Siyi questioned him, "Did I go too far just now?" but then contradicted himself by dismissing Shen Daifu's previous advice about love being a verb as merely a "medical point of view."
He expressed his frustration, "Whenever I thought Lin Zhen'er is real and lovely, she. . ." Shen Daifu, seeing Tu Siyi's internal conflict, candidly asked, "Pardon me for speaking frankly. Since you pretend to like Her Highness from the very beginning, why do you care if she deserves your love?"
Episode 4 Recap
Lin Zhen'er, relegated to her room which she considers a "Cold Palace," felt a profound sense of helplessness and boredom, regretting that her good intentions had been misunderstood and she had failed to achieve her goals. In her distress, she took out her cell phone, which she realized had traveled with her in her pocket, and put on her headphones to listen to music. Despite the lack of signal, it offered some distraction.
Her solace was short-lived when an attendant arrived to summon her to Princess Royal's palace. Upon her arrival, Lin Zhen'er greeted Princess Royal, who commented on her unconventional manners, attributing them to her being General Shengyuan's daughter. Princess Royal then spoke at length about her deep concern for Tu Siyi, whom she had raised since his mother's early death, treating him as her own son.
She expressed her desire for Tu Siyi to become the Crown Prince, stating that while he had worked hard, his direction was misguided, ultimately achieving nothing. Princess Royal subtly disparaged Lin Zhen'er, implying that as General Shengyuan's daughter, she was now obsolete in a peaceful era and, with her family line ended, could no longer serve the court. Lin Zhen'er found Princess Royal's words offensive.
Princess Royal finally revealed her true intention, explaining that Tu Siyi's future as monarch hinged on his ability to stabilize neighboring countries, and that a marriage alliance with the Huanyue State princess was in the works. She then produced a writing of divorcement, demanding that Lin Zhen'er leave Tu Siyi for his own good. In a moment of desperation, Lin Zhen'er blurted out that she was pregnant, just as Tu Siyi arrived.
Tu Siyi immediately asserted his authority, warning everyone not to touch his princess or his "prince's descendant." Princess Royal, caught off guard, attempted to cover her actions by claiming she had arranged for an imperial doctor to help Lin Zhen'er conceive. Tu Siyi thanked his aunt but firmly declared that in the future, anyone wishing to see Lin Zhen'er must first seek his permission.
Back at the residence, Tu Siyi, still unconvinced by Lin Zhen'er's sudden announcement, ordered Shen Daifu to examine her. Lin Zhen'er, using her mystical abilities, cleverly manipulated her pulse to mimic a genuine pregnancy. Shen Daifu, after taking her pulse and prompting Tu Siyi to 'listen' to the supposed heartbeat, confirmed that Lin Zhen'er was indeed pregnant. Tu Siyi, utterly bewildered, insisted that he and Lin Zhen'er had never consummated their marriage.
Lin Zhen'er quickly fabricated a story, claiming that they had, but he had forgotten due to his amnesia after falling from his horse. She vividly described a night where he had feigned drunkenness and behaved "lecherously," pointing to various spots in the room where their intimate encounter supposedly occurred.
Tu Siyi, despite his initial skepticism and attempts to poke holes in her story regarding his aversion to alcohol and the season, eventually seemed to be swayed by her detailed (albeit fictional) account and Shen Daifu's earlier confirmation. Although he initially chided Lin Zhen'er for her shamelessness, he eventually apologized for his past wrongs and promised to take care of her and the baby, instructing her to keep the pregnancy a secret for their safety in the complex palace environment.
Lin Zhen'er, relieved but also aware of the escalating lie, resolved to complete her mission and escape the game before her deception was exposed. Meanwhile, Tu Siya was out, first engaging in acts of chivalry in a tavern, then showing kindness while eating. She intervened when a woman was being harassed over a five-tael debt, generously giving the woman ten taels. Later, two young boys begged for food from her, then subtly stole her money pouch.
A man named Cui Xun, who had observed both incidents, retrieved her purse and the ten taels she had given away, revealing that both the woman and the boys were known fraudsters. Grateful, Tu Siya invited Cui Xun to join her for a meal. During their conversation, Cui Xun, a martial artist, claimed to possess an ancestral qin made by his grandfather, who was supposedly the Retired Emperor's teacher.
He spun a tale of his grandfather's desire to live in seclusion, thus explaining why his family was unknown at court, despite Tu Siya's probing questions about his grandfather's identity and family name. Cui Xun then lamented his own struggles, admitting he was penniless after years of aimless wandering in the martial arts world and intended to pawn the treasured qin.
Moved by his story, Tu Siya impulsively offered to buy the qin for sixty taels, ten more than any pawnshop would offer, with the option for him to buy it back later. Believing she had acquired a valuable antique, Tu Siya eagerly returned home to show it to Tu Siyi. To her dismay, Tu Siyi immediately recognized the qin as poorly made and virtually worthless, estimating its value at only five coins.
He quickly deduced that Tu Siya had been conned, again. Tu Siya was furious, vowing revenge on Cui Xun. Her frustration grew when she saw Tu Siyi diligently writing down names for a child, realizing that Lin Zhen'er was indeed pregnant. Remembering the previous animosity between Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er, she felt deeply betrayed and thought the world was "insincere." Since Lin Zhen'er's supposed pregnancy, Tu Siyi's attitude underwent a dramatic shift.
He began caring for her meticulously, preparing light breakfasts with sweet-scented osmanthus to prevent morning sickness, taking her for daily walks for fresh air, and even playing "tunes for fetuses" for the baby's well-being. He also meticulously planned to personally choose fabric and dye for the baby's clothes, ensuring their quality due to the baby's delicate skin, explaining that servants wouldn't understand such details.
Lin Zhen'er, while appreciating the attention, was increasingly anxious to complete her mission and leave before her fake pregnancy was exposed. One evening, her maid, Mu Yan, excitedly told her that Tu Siyi had purchased several cattle, even some from Japan. Lin Zhen'er, who had been longing for hearty food after days of bland meals, was overjoyed, imagining a feast of various beef dishes like stewed beef, sauced beef, beef hotpot, and beef ball noodles.
However, her hopes were dashed the next morning when Tu Siyi presented her with only milk, explaining that Shen Daifu had advised that it was rich in nutrients and beneficial for the baby's bones. He even cited an exaggerated tale of Northern warriors thriving on milk, which Shen Daifu sheepishly admitted he had merely "casually mentioned."
Tu Siyi instructed Mu Yan to replace all of Lin Zhen'er's tea with milk and assured her he was having milk-based pastries made and learning more tunes for fetuses. Lin Zhen'er, disgusted by the bland diet, erupted in anger, refusing to drink milk and declaring that humans are carnivores who need meat, naming salmon, hotpot, and fried chicken as her desires.
She called Tu Siyi a "male chauvinist pig," dismissed his concerns for the baby's nutrition, and stormed off, declaring she didn't want to be pregnant. After her outburst, Tu Siyi reflected on his actions. When he asked Shen Daifu if he was wrong, Shen Daifu confirmed that Tu Siyi's sudden shift from indifference to extreme care was clearly only for the unborn child, making Lin Zhen'er feel neglected.
Lin Zhen'er, alone in her room, lamented that Tu Siyi always prioritized himself, regardless of the world they were in, and that she was still hungry. Determined to truly understand Lin Zhen'er's experience, Tu Siyi asked Shen Daifu to fashion a heavy package that mimicked an eight-month pregnancy and wore it. Carrying this 'belly' and a meal of both meat and vegetables, he then approached a still-sulking Lin Zhen'er, finally making her laugh.
He explained that he now understood the constant backache and the elderly gait of a pregnant woman. He also mentioned Shen Daifu's advice that pregnancy could cause irritability due to hormonal changes. With genuine empathy, he apologized for his previous insensitivity and promised that she could eat whatever she desired from then on, regardless of nutritional concerns.
Touched by his efforts, Lin Zhen'er recalled their past relationship with Tu Siyi before his amnesia, noting that they always reconciled quickly after arguments, realizing their quarrels were born from love. Their last argument, however, had been cut short by his accident before they could make amends. Tu Siyi, confused by these memories, suggested that once his memory returned, they could finish that quarrel. Lin Zhen'er readily agreed, sealing the promise.
Episode 5 Recap
After Tu Siyi played his qin for three hours, Lin Zhen'er, feeling bored, suggested they go out for a walk. She explained that as a couple, they should be "dating," which involved enjoying beautiful scenery and listening to music outside the mansion. Initially hesitant due to the light rain and her supposed pregnancy, Tu Siyi eventually agreed.
As they rode through picturesque landscapes, Tu Siyi confessed that he had always yearned for such a life, filled with leisure and an appreciation for nature, music, and poetry. However, the former Lin Zhen'er had constantly urged him to focus on seizing the throne, making such simple pleasures impossible.
Lin Zhen'er then asked if he believed she had changed, to which Tu Siyi replied that ever since his fall from the horse, he felt a strange familiarity with her, yet also noticed she was different from before. To enhance their "date," Lin Zhen'er took out her phone, which she described as a "magic instrument" that could produce "heavenly sounds." Tu Siyi was enchanted by the music. He then asked what other activities "dating" entailed.
Lin Zhen'er instructed him to close his eyes and then kissed him. Startled, Tu Siyi exclaimed, "How shameless! What are you doing?" He found it dirty and sudden, though he admitted to a "little electric shock." When Lin Zhen'er offered to "return" the kiss if he disliked it, Tu Siyi closed his eyes, prompting her to kiss him again.
This intimate moment triggered a nostalgic flashback for Lin Zhen'er, recalling her first kiss with the real Tu Siyi—a moment he promised to remember forever. Overcome with emotion, she teared up, which Tu Siyi misinterpreted as her being deeply moved by his "perfection." The next morning, Tu Siyi discovered his sister, Tu Siya, diligently practicing martial arts. He playfully tried to startle her but accidentally got injured.
Tu Siya explained her fierce dedication was to exact revenge on Cui Xun, who had swindled her. Tu Siyi, reassuring her not to blame herself for being "stupid," promised to help her retrieve her money. He then chided Shen Daifu for not intervening to prevent his injury, to which Shen Daifu replied that he needed to practice his bandaging skills for the sake of "all living beings."
Later, Tu Siyi and Shen Daifu found Cui Xun in a teahouse, employing the same scam to deceive Murong Qianyue with a qin. Introducing himself as Tu Yisi, Tu Siyi feigned interest in buying the qin, outbidding Murong Qianyue. He then revealed his true identity and exposed Cui Xun's trickery, mentioning his sister Tu Siya, whom Cui Xun had also defrauded. Shen Daifu then blocked Cui Xun's acupoints, rendering him unable to use martial arts.
Cui Xun, cornered, claimed he had an elderly mother at home who needed to be settled before he could go to the yamen. Skeptical but believing Cui Xun was incapacitated, Tu Siyi and the others followed him. Cui Xun led them to a dilapidated "Wushu Hall" filled with seemingly ill, elderly, and orphaned villagers. He spun a tale of being an orphan himself, raised by these people, and claimed he resorted to fraud to support his "family."
Murong Qianyue and Tu Siyi were touched by his story, especially when he lamented that his impending arrest would leave these vulnerable people uncared for. Believing they had misjudged him, Tu Siyi handed Cui Xun 200 taels of silver, urging him to use it for the Wushu Hall and to stop his fraudulent ways.
However, just as they were about to leave, Cui Xun's actual household servants arrived, addressing him as "Young Master" and revealing that his "Master" was looking for him. The entire "refugee camp" scattered, confirming it was an elaborate hoax. Cui Xun seized the moment to escape, leaving Tu Siyi frustrated and out of pocket by a significant sum. That evening, as Tu Siyi and Murong Qianyue were saying their goodbyes, a group of men appeared, searching for Murong Qianyue.
She pleaded with Tu Siyi for help. Tu Siyi, with Shen Daifu's assistance, helped her hide, creating a diversion for her pursuers. Witnessing Tu Siyi's chivalry, Murong Qianyue felt a growing admiration for him. Meanwhile, Shen Daifu was also captivated by Murong Qianyue's beauty. Back at the mansion, Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siya were astonished and dismayed to learn that Tu Siyi had lost 200 taels to another scam.
Tu Siyi, embarrassed, gave a vague explanation, claiming it was for the common people. Lin Zhen'er, hoping this marked a new resolve in him to pursue the throne, was disheartened to find only music-related books on his desk. Tu Siyi, perhaps sensing her unspoken disappointment, stated he preferred to study music in his "spare time" and reminded her of her promise to support his preferences.
Realizing his innocence and the depth of his passion, Lin Zhen'er couldn't bring herself to scold him. She was left feeling helpless, pondering how she could reconcile his passion for music with the necessity of him ascending the throne.
Episode 6 Recap
Lin Zhengzheng wrestled with how to connect Yu Siyi's passion for music with his path to becoming emperor. At her wit's end, her sister-in-law, Tu Siya, burst in with exciting news. Tu Siya revealed she had overheard the Princess Royal discussing a secret: their country was in peace talks with Yuanri State, whose Queen Mother insisted on acquiring the ancient musical score, "Ode to Lvqi."
This score had been bestowed upon Prime Minister Cui by the late emperor many years ago. Successfully retrieving it would earn immense favor from the current emperor. Seizing the opportunity, Lin Zhengzheng immediately dispatched her servant, Mu Yan, to investigate. Mu Yan soon reported that Prime Minister Cui, now known as Master Cui, ran a famous musical instrument store, Jinse Musical Instrument Store, and hosted an annual music competition at his mansion, attracting talented musicians.
The prize was said to be a top-quality guqin. Lin Zhengzheng, seeing a clear path, wasted no time convincing Yu Siyi to participate. Initially, Yu Siyi hesitated, concerned about Lin Zhengzheng's pregnancy. He suggested she rest at home, promising to play any good melodies he learned upon his return.
However, Lin Zhengzheng, a martial artist, insisted she was in good health and pointed out her recent study of music theory made her an ideal helper, especially since Shen Daifu knew nothing of music. She also appealed to his affection, saying neither she nor the baby wanted to be separated from him, and he looked his most handsome when he said "okay." Unable to resist her pleas, Yu Siyi finally relented, though he made her promise not to act recklessly.
Unbeknownst to them, the Second Prince had already begun his schemes. Upon learning that Yu Siyi had left the capital to participate in a music competition at Cui's Mansion, he was baffled why Yu Siyi would abandon the critical race for the Crown Prince position. Driven by his desire to disrupt anything Yu Siyi pursued, the Second Prince dispatched his men to sabotage the music competition, ensuring Yu Siyi would not win.
As Lin Zhengzheng, Yu Siyi, Tu Siya, and Shen Daifu prepared to depart, a self-proclaimed fortune-teller appeared, claiming their birth charts were "evil." Though initially dismissive, particularly when Shen Daifu found nothing wrong with their carriage, Lin Zhengzheng grew uneasy as the man's ominous pronouncements continued. As they rode away, the fortune-teller shouted after them, warning that their fates clashed, and their forced union would bring harm.
He even offered a meeting point at Ang's Mansion in the east of the city if they reconsidered. Yu Siyi, however, scoffed at such superstitions and urged Lin Zhengzheng not to take it to heart, a sentiment echoed by Tu Siya. Along the journey, Yu Siyi was attentive to Lin Zhengzheng, even rubbing her feet when they went numb.
Later, Tu Siya, driving the carriage, bumped into a stone, causing her to return inside, and Yu Siyi's eyes became inflamed, attributed to dry weather and internal heat. Upon arriving at Cui's Mansion, they were immediately struck by its grand and artistic ambiance. To maintain a low profile, Yu Siyi decided they would use pseudonyms, calling himself Yu Siyi.
They introduced themselves to the steward, Li Du, as music enthusiasts from the capital, eager to participate in the competition and meet Master Cui. Master Cui, a man of deep musical passion, immediately challenged Yu Siyi to play the guqin. With Lin Zhengzheng's suggestion, Yu Siyi played a modern tune from her mobile phone, astonishing Master Cui. He proclaimed he had never heard such "amazing music" in his thirty years of studying sound.
Lin Zhengzheng, eager to secure the "Ode to Lvqi," tried to subtly inquire about Master Cui's collection of rare instruments and ancient scores, including odes. However, Master Cui, seemingly ignoring her hints, courteously invited them to stay in a private residence on his hillside estate, which he typically used for his own musical pursuits. Lin Zhengzheng was pleased, feeling that her plan to connect music with the throne was truly a stroke of genius.
As Yu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng settled into their accommodations, Tu Siya and Shen Daifu, not being musically inclined, decided to explore the nearby town. Shen Daifu headed to a restaurant, while Tu Siya, dressed in men's clothing, wandered the streets. She soon encountered Li Changxiu, a renowned figure from Yuanri State, famous as "Iron Flute Li Changxiu" for using his flute as both an instrument and a weapon.
Recognizing him from his reputation, Tu Siya was thrilled to meet such a martial and musical master, who, like them, was also heading to Cui's music competition. She introduced herself as Yu Siya. The next day, as the music competition was about to commence, Master Cui displayed his extremely strict standards.
When a drummer made a single mistake during a warm-up performance, Master Cui, after repeatedly asking if the tempo was too fast or too slow and receiving no clear answer, declared the drummer useless and had him removed from the mansion. This act deeply impressed Yu Siyi, who had never witnessed such rigorous dedication to music.
Master Cui then elaborated on his philosophy, comparing music to a piece of jade where every detail is crucial, and stated that the competition's goal was to find the finest musician, offering a treasured ancient zither and a cherished music score as prizes. The first challenge was to create and play a musical instrument using only the materials provided by Master Cui.
As soon as the command was given, contestants rushed to grab the best items, leaving Yu Siyi with a pile of seemingly useless scraps. However, Yu Siyi, looking at the disparate materials, envisioned a guitar—an instrument that could be carried, allowing performers to interact with the audience and express themselves passionately yet calmly. Lin Zhengzheng, with her modern knowledge, immediately understood his vision and sketched a design, which greatly excited Yu Siyi.
He declared he now knew how to construct it, feeling confident about the competition. Meanwhile, Tu Siya's thoughts were solely focused on Li Changxiu's iron flute, convinced that acquiring it would guarantee her a brilliant future. She even tried to peek into his preparations, only to be politely brushed off by Li Changxiu. When the performances began, Li Changxiu was the first to present. He revealed he had only managed to secure a single chopstick from the scramble for materials.
Using the chopstick to tap on wine glasses that he had filled to varying levels, he ingeniously created simple yet ethereal music with just five notes, performing an impromptu composition. Master Cui showered him with praise, marveling at his musicality and resourcefulness. Lin Zhengzheng wryly commented that Master Cui was "playing reading comprehension" with his elaborate praise. As Yu Siyi, slightly nervous, prepared for his turn, Lin Zhengzheng offered a word of encouragement, "Go, Your Highness!"
Episode 7 Recap
The competition continued with Yu Siyi from the Capital City taking the stage. Master Cui expressed his unfamiliarity with Yu Siyi's instrument, stating he had never seen such a musical instrument in his life. Lin Zhen'er explained that it was a guitar, a new instrument invented by Yu Siyi, capable of producing very different music. As Yu Siyi began his performance, the audience was captivated by his innovative music.
Suddenly, people sent by the Second Prince used mirrors to reflect sunlight, attempting to disrupt his performance. Lin Zhen'er quickly noticed the sabotage. Angered by the interference but prioritizing the competition, she snatched Tu Siya's sword and went on stage, dancing with the sword to block the reflected light. Yu Siyi completed his performance while Lin Zhen'er danced, and they successfully passed the first round. Li Changxiu also advanced.
Before the second round, Lin Zhen'er had already bought off A Fu, a servant in the Cui mansion, to obtain information about the upcoming challenge. A Fu later secretly delivered the rules, confirming that the second round was "Locating through sound." Contestants, blindfolded, would stand in the center of a stage surrounded by 12 drums. Each drumbeat would signal a wooden ball being shot from that direction, and contestants had to evade them to avoid being hit.
Li Changxiu, with his martial arts skills and keen sense of music, easily passed this round. Yu Siyi, despite his acute hearing, recognized his lack of swiftness to dodge the wooden balls. Lin Zhen'er proposed they compete together, with him identifying directions and her providing the swift movements. Their strategy involved using the 12 directions as clock points, with Yu Siyi calling out the "time" for Lin Zhen'er to react.
As they skillfully navigated the incoming wooden balls, their movements resembled a dance, with Yu Siyi remarking how wonderful it was to "dance" with Lin Zhen'er. He expressed that going through these experiences with her helped him understand her passion for music. However, the Second Prince's men once again intervened, shooting Yu Siyi's ear and causing him temporary deafness.
Concerned for Lin Zhen'er, who was pregnant, Yu Siyi stubbornly pushed her off the stage, intending to face the remaining attacks alone. Unwilling to let him get hurt, Lin Zhen'er rushed back onto the stage, embracing him and shielding him from the final attacks, sustaining injuries herself. Both Li Changxiu and Yu Siyi passed the second round. A doctor later assured Yu Siyi that Lin Zhen'er's pulse was stable and her unborn baby was safe.
Lin Zhen'er, despite her injuries, insisted on continuing, stating her desire to keep winning. Steward Li announced the rules for the third round: contestants must perform music that moves Master Cui to tears. As a gesture of gratitude, Master Cui had already gifted them a musical score.
Lin Zhen'er eagerly received it, hoping it was the "Ode to Lvqi" she sought, but was disappointed to find it was "Three Hundred Nursery Rhymes," which she considered Master Cui's way of mocking them. Determined to find the "Ode to Lvqi," Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siya decided to search Master Cui's room. Their search proved fruitless, as the score was not there.
As they were leaving, Tu Siya unexpectedly bumped into Cui Xun, whom she recognized as having cheated her out of money previously. A struggle ensued, but Cui Xun managed to escape when servants appeared, though Tu Siya continued her pursuit. She eventually offered to drop the matter if Cui Xun would help her steal Li Changxiu's iron flute, to which he agreed.
Later, a maid named Sister Ying explained to Lin Zhen'er and Yu Siyi that Cui Xun was actually Master Cui's grandson. Master Cui's deep devotion to music, especially after acquiring the "Ode to Lvqi," led him to neglect his wife, Cui Xun's grandmother, who eventually died of depression. Cui Xun blamed his grandfather and rebelled, constantly causing trouble and refusing to pursue music as his grandfather wished.
Sister Ying also revealed that despite his rebellious exterior, Cui Xun secretly cared for Master Cui, often bringing him medicine, and was doing so that very night. Lin Zhen'er, relating to the pressure of parental expectations, empathized with Cui Xun. While attempting to steal the iron flute for Tu Siya, Cui Xun discovered Li Changxiu, dressed in nocturnal clothing, attempting to steal something from Master Cui's room. Cui Xun shouted "Catch the thief!"
, startling Li Changxiu, who fled in a hurry. In his escape, the iron flute was dislodged and fell into Cui Xun's hands. Cui Xun later warned Tu Siya that Li Changxiu was "not a good man," but she was skeptical, calling him a martial arts master. Cui Xun then made up an excuse for being in Master Cui's study, claiming he got lost looking for the toilet with Lin Zhen'er.
Meanwhile, Lin Zhen'er and Yu Siyi discussed the upcoming third round, realizing that finding a way to mend the relationship between Master Cui and Cui Xun might be the key to moving Master Cui to tears. They pondered how to break through the animosity between the grandfather and grandson. When Lin Zhen'er and Yu Siyi asked Tu Siya about Cui Xun, Tu Siya confirmed that despite her pursuit, he had escaped in the chaos. Just as they were troubled by the situation, Master Cui arrived.
Episode 8 Recap
Master Cui had been secretly repaying all the debts accumulated by his grandson, Cui Xun, whenever he learned of Cui Xun's fraudulent activities, a fact Cui Xun was completely unaware of. Realizing the deep, albeit misunderstood, affection between Master Cui and his grandson, Lin Zhengzheng and Tu Siyi concluded that inviting Cui Xun to participate in the final round would significantly increase their chances of winning.
They found a despondent Cui Xun and revealed Master Cui’s hidden care, explaining that his continued escape from justice was due to his grandfather consistently settling his debts. They also noticed Cui Xun was carrying traditional Chinese medicine for blood pressure, meant for his ailing grandfather, highlighting the mutual affection between them. Tu Siyi urged Cui Xun to overcome his emotional barriers and reconcile with his grandfather.
Master Cui arrived shortly after to repay the silver Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng had lost to Cui Xun, inadvertently confirming their story. Lin Zhengzheng then advised Cui Xun to cease his deceptive ways and apologize to his grandfather. When the final round of the music competition began, Li Changxiu was notably absent. Tu Siyi surprised everyone by introducing Cui Xun as their external aid.
Cui Xun, playing a tune Master Cui had taught him in childhood, publicly expressed his willingness to return home and inherit his grandfather’s musical legacy. Master Cui, deeply moved, shed tears, signifying their reconciliation. Following the rules of the competition, Tu Siyi was declared the champion. Later, at a celebratory dinner, Master Cui expressed immense gratitude to Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng for helping him and his grandson reconcile.
During the meal, Cui Xun apologized to his grandfather for his past misbehavior, and Master Cui, in turn, acknowledged his own fault for pressuring Cui Xun and promised to support his happiness moving forward. Lin Zhengzheng seized this opportunity to subtly inquire about the whereabouts of the "Ode to Lvqi" score. Cui Xun, still reflecting on the past, asked Master Cui about the long-standing rumor of his infidelity.
Master Cui confessed that in his youth, his deep immersion in the famed "Ode to Lvqi" had led him to neglect his wife, who mistakenly believed he had betrayed her, leading to her eventual illness and passing. Out of remorse, he had since locked away the "Ode to Lvqi" and never played it again.
Unbeknownst to them, the Second Prince's plot to disrupt the competition had failed, and he had learned that the "Ode to Lvqi" was located at Cui's Mansion. Believing Tu Siyi was secretly seeking the score to curry favor with the Queen Mother of Yuanri State (who coveted it) and thus gain political advantage, the Second Prince ordered his men to infiltrate Cui's Mansion and steal the "Ode to Lvqi," with strict instructions to succeed at all costs.
That night, the Second Prince’s men entered Cui's Mansion, using an overpowering smoke to incapacitate the household. They searched the Library Box for the "Ode to Lvqi," but after failing to find it, they decided to burn the entire Library Box down. However, Cui Xun, who was not affected by the smoke, intercepted them as they tried to flee. He captured the intruders and handed them over to the authorities.
Meanwhile, Lin Zhengzheng, having seen the black-clad figures and the unconscious household members, and sensing their target was the score, quickly woke Tu Siyi. They rushed to the Library Box, realizing the intruders' true intention was not just to steal but to destroy the invaluable "Ode to Lvqi." Amidst the growing flames, they desperately searched and eventually discovered a secret mechanism, leading them into a hidden room where the score was safely stored.
They retrieved the "Ode to Lvqi," but in doing so, found themselves trapped inside the secret chamber. In the dark and confined space, Lin Zhengzheng, startled by the sound of a mouse, instinctively clung to Tu Siyi. He began to hum a familiar song. When she questioned him about it, he merely stated it was an instinctive hum and asked if she had heard it before.
Lin Zhengzheng felt a deep pang of sadness and weariness; while he remembered the melody, he had no recollection of their shared past or that he had once sung it to her. Tu Siyi attempted to console her, suggesting that their current happiness was what mattered most, and that perhaps remembering the past wasn't as crucial. Lin Zhengzheng, however, insisted on the importance of their past to her, even if he couldn't recall it.
She then expected a kiss, but Tu Siyi was actually leaning in to detect a draft, which he believed would indicate an exit. Feeling annoyed by his pragmatism, Lin Zhengzheng refused to walk, forcing Tu Siyi to carry her, playfully teasing her about her weight. As dawn approached, Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng successfully escaped the secret room, bringing the "Ode to Lvqi" with them. Outside, Cui Xun had already informed Master Cui about the fire and the captured arsonists.
Despite earlier claiming indifference, Master Cui was visibly distressed by the potential loss of the "Ode to Lvqi" and deeply worried about Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng's safety. Their safe return, with the score intact, brought immense relief to everyone. Tu Siyi respectfully presented the "Ode to Lvqi" to Master Cui.
Reflecting on how the score had caused much discord in his own family, and impressed by Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng's harmonious partnership, Master Cui lauded them as a "heaven-made couple" and decided to gift the recovered "Ode to Lvqi" to them, believing they were the most fitting inheritors. He then revealed that he had recognized Tu Siyi as the Third Prince and Lin Zhengzheng as the Third Prince's Consort upon their arrival, having seen Tu Siyi's jade pendant.
He also identified Princess Ya. He explained that he had not exposed their identities because he felt their passion for music was genuine. Master Cui also humbly requested clemency for Cui Xun's past offenses. Tu Siyi graciously dismissed Cui Xun's previous misdeeds, stating they were unintentional. With many days passed since their departure from the palace, Tu Siyi and his entourage took their leave from Cui's Mansion.
As they journeyed, Lin Zhengzheng requested Tu Siyi to play the "Ode to Lvqi" for her, to which he readily agreed. Shortly after, Cui Xun rode up to them, dismounted, and respectfully greeted the Third Prince and the Third Prince's Consort.
Episode 9 Recap
Cui Xun expressed his profound gratitude to the Third Prince and Lin Zhen'er for their guidance, which helped him overcome his rebellious past. He acknowledged that without their wisdom, he would still be a nobody in society. To show his appreciation, Cui Xun pledged to follow and serve the Third Prince. Lin Zhen'er, recognizing his excellent Kungfu as a valuable asset, readily agreed to let him join their retinue, believing he would be of much help.
Cui Xun greeted Tu Siya as 'Princess Ya.' Tu Siya, excited by Cui Xun joining them, immediately told him to stop calling her "Princess," asserting her identity as a martial artist. Cui Xun, however, teased her about her "poor Kungfu," suggesting she return to being a "little princess." Provoked, Tu Siya challenged him to teach her.
He began by asking her to perform a horse-riding step, then emphasized the importance of building muscles for strength, mentioning exercising arms, legs, and the upper body, specifically chest muscles. When he directly checked her chest muscles, Tu Siya blushed deeply and ran off in embarrassment. Li Changxiu then arrived, surprising Tu Siya, who recalled his previous clandestine actions at their home.
Li Changxiu playfully retorted that she also "stole" his flute, making them even, before gifting her one of his many flutes. He then revealed his true purpose: to obtain the "Ode to Lvqi". Identifying himself as a prince of Yuanri State, he explained his grandmother's long-held admiration for Master Cui. During Master Cui's concert tour in Yuanri State, his grandmother was captivated by his performance of the "Ode to Lvqi".
Upon learning Master Cui was married, she respectfully maintained her distance, later marrying the previous emperor and becoming queen. Now, in her ill health, she desired to see the "Ode to Lvqi" one last time to fulfill her deepest wish. Lin Zhen'er, determined not to hand over the "Ode to Lvqi" as she intended to use it to aid the Third Prince's ascension, decided on a strategic delay.
Acknowledging Li Changxiu's martial skills, she feigned sympathy for his grandmother's plight and invited him to stay for the night, promising to make her "signature snacks." Her true intention, however, was to secretly add a laxative to the treats, hoping to incapacitate him and prevent him from leaving with the music score. While she was preparing the snacks, Tu Siyi arrived and confronted her, his tone laced with jealousy.
He questioned why she was personally making snacks for Li Changxiu, even though she explained it was merely a gift for his long journey home. Tu Siyi reminded her that she was his wife and carrying his child, and he believed she should not be so attentive to another man. He complained that just when he starts to feel positively about her, she invariably does something to displease him.
Lin Zhen'er, frustrated, attempted to tell him he didn't understand her intentions, but he dismissed her. This agitation caused her to accidentally sprinkle the laxative onto her own food. Lin Zhen'er presented Li Changxiu with a variety of snacks, including what she called "instant noodles," a "treasure of Chuxing State," explaining how to prepare them and even packing more for his journey. After she left, Tu Siyi secretly approached Li Changxiu, who was playing his flute.
Feigning disinterest in Lin Zhen'er's cooking, Tu Siyi dismissed Chuxing's snacks as "terrible." He then offered Li Changxiu the "Ode to Lvqi" immediately if he departed that very night, despite the clear sky, claiming unpredictable weather. Li Changxiu accepted the music score and promptly left. When Lin Zhen'er discovered Li Changxiu's departure and learned that Tu Siyi gave him the "Ode to Lvqi", she was incandescent with rage. She accused Tu Siyi of being childishly jealous.
Tu Siyi, however, defended his actions by saying he was honoring Li Changxiu's grandmother's deep feelings and Master Cui's original generous spirit in sharing the score. He dismissed Lin Zhen'er's anger as "unreasonable." Lin Zhen'er, feeling all her efforts were wasted, passionately argued that he didn't understand how much trouble she went through to get the score and how lost she feels without it.
She challenged him, asking how he could become Crown Prince or gain the Emperor's favor without it. Tu Siyi, in turn, accused her of only supporting his musical dream for her own "power and tricks," implying she hasn't changed from her true self, driven by fame and profit.
Lin Zhen'er countered that her actions were precisely to secure his position as Crown Prince and win the Emperor's approval, connecting it to his musical success, and questioned what is wrong with achieving both. In the midst of their heated argument, Lin Zhen'er was suddenly overcome with severe stomach pain. She declared she needed to rush to the outhouse and would resume their argument later, before collapsing.
Tu Siya was sent to check on her, and shortly after, Shen Daifu examined her. Tu Siyi confronted Lin Zhen'er, demanding to know why she lied to him and what her true intentions were. He was enraged, pointing a sword at her. Shen Daifu attempted to calm him, explaining that he genuinely detected a "happy pulse" previously. Lin Zhen'er then confessed that she faked the pregnancy using internal force and challenged Tu Siyi to kill her.
Tu Siyi, with profound disappointment, clarified that his anger stemmed from her repeated deceit, stating that every time he attempts to love her, she consistently proves herself "not worthy of my love." Lin Zhen'er, equally heartbroken, questioned if he ever truly loved her. She recounted how he initially "spoiled" her but then cruelly confined her to a cold, dark room whenever she displeased him, knowing her fear of darkness.
She also revealed that Princess Royal's threats of torture left her no choice but to claim pregnancy for survival. She highlighted his sudden affection after he believed she was pregnant, asking how she could possibly have then revealed the truth. Lin Zhen'er concluded that he only loves an "obedient" version of her, one who unconditionally supports all his desires, especially his music, regardless of her own feelings.
She lamented her own foolishness for saving him and loving him, even after they had "broken up." Tu Siyi, bewildered by her modern terminology, dismissed her words as "nonsense." Overwhelmed by her emotions, Lin Zhen'er ran off. Later, a deeply distressed Tu Siyi, accompanied by Shen Daifu, found himself in a Guqin shop.
He furiously tried multiple instruments, frustrating the shopkeeper who complained that Tu Siyi had been playing the same Guqin for hours and should try another or simply leave if none meet his standards. Tu Siyi, still agitated, defended his right to thoroughly test a Guqin before purchase, asserting his preference for the current instrument despite its perceived flaws in tone. Unable to find solace, he stormed out of the shop.
On the street, Tu Siyi and Shen Daifu unexpectedly encountered Murong Qianyue. She greeted Tu Siyi, who initially misremembered her as "Shangguan Qianyue" before correcting himself to "Murong Qianyue." When she invited him for tea, Tu Siyi politely declined, claiming to feel unwell, and promised to meet another time, before abruptly leaving Shen Daifu with Murong Qianyue. Left alone with Murong Qianyue, Shen Daifu bravely offered her a sachet as a gift.
He explained that he recreated the unique aroma of her body, which he remembered from a past encounter. Through his meticulous research, he discovered a key ingredient, Shui Anxi, is a rare aromatic crop found only in Huanyue State. This led him to correctly deduce that Murong Qianyue is from Huanyue State and likely resides near the Wenyu River, where the plant flourishes.
Murong Qianyue, displeased by his unexpected insight into her hidden identity and having no romantic interest in him, coldly rejected his gift. A dejected Shen Daifu reunited with Tu Siyi, and they both headed to a cliffside to vent their frustrations by shouting. Shen Daifu lamented his rejection, feeling misunderstood and labeled as "a weird person" for his heartfelt gesture.
He contrasted his own predicament, feeling unloved and lonely, with Tu Siyi's relationship struggles, which he views as "happy troubles" between two people who care for each other. Shen Daifu then showcased his vast knowledge of medicinal plants like purslane, dandelion, and mugwort, detailing their healing properties, but expressed his despair that such extensive knowledge is utterly useless in attracting women. He bitterly noted that healthy women only approach him for medical treatment, never for companionship. Listening to Shen Daifu's heartfelt confessions, Tu Siyi found an unexpected sense of comfort and told Shen Daifu that he felt "much better now."
Episode 10 Recap
Feeling melancholic after a recent argument with Tu Siyi, Lin Zhen'er was comforted by Tu Siya. Tu Siya acknowledged that her aunt, the Princess Royal, was not very kind-hearted, but she believed that women should not be confined solely to the roles of childbirth and raising children. Lin Zhen'er admitted she had lied to Tu Siyi, expecting his disappointment, especially since Tu Siya had hoped for a healthy boy, while Lin Zhen'er herself had actually hoped for a girl.
However, Lin Zhen'er lamented the lack of freedom for girls, who are expected to marry and have children without pursuing their own ambitions. Lin Zhen'er noted that Tu Siya, despite being a girl, appeared free, but Lin Zhen'er then revealed that she (Lin Zhen'er) herself was often ridiculed and disciplined, particularly by her own father, who she felt never truly loved her.
Tu Siya encouraged her, saying, "As long as you are brave, happy and are showing your real self, you will be a good girl." Lin Zhen'er found this difficult, but Tu Siya reassured her that she would eventually find someone who supports her. Their conversation was unexpectedly interrupted by Cui Xun, who had been sleeping on a beam above them.
Cui Xun, directly addressing Tu Siya, remarked that marriage was boring and suggested she train martial arts with him to become famous in the martial world. Lin Zhen'er chastised him for eavesdropping, but he simply stated he had been there first. As Cui Xun left, Tu Siya playfully reminded him to continue exercising his chest muscles, wondering how he would dominate the Kungfu scene if he was lazy. Later, Lin Zhen'er walked the streets alone to clear her head.
She discovered a brocade pouch, a game skill pack that granted her the ability to summon the person with the highest favorability towards her. Believing no one in this world would miss her, she dismissed it as useless. However, when a mouse startled her, she accidentally activated the skill, summoning Tu Siyi. To her surprise, his favorability towards her had reached 80 points, making her wonder if he had forgiven her.
Tu Siyi was bewildered, asking why he was suddenly in the street. Lin Zhen'er quickly fabricated a story about him being distracted while walking. Tu Siyi bought a roasted corn, but then mischievously walked away, not giving it to her, which Lin Zhen'er perceived as him leaving heartlessly and leaving her exasperated.
Upon returning to the palace, Tu Siyi was approached by Murong Qianyue, who presented him with a unique music score from her hometown that required four hands to play simultaneously. She expressed her joy at finding a kindred spirit in him and invited him to play the piece together. As they played, Lin Zhen'er and Shen Daifu observed them. Lin Zhen'er confronted Tu Siyi, questioning why he was playing with someone else, but he ignored her.
Murong Qianyue explained that the rhythm, not just the melody, was the essence of the piece, a point Tu Siyi affirmed. Feeling further slighted, Lin Zhen'er grew angry and left. Murong Qianyue then invited them all to the annual Water Lantern Festival the following night. There, she spotted Cui Xun, whom she recognized as a cheater. Tu Siyi intervened, explaining that they had since become friends after a misunderstanding with Cui Xun's family.
Murong Qianyue, accepting this, said, "Young Master Tu's friends are my Murong Qianyue's friends." Later, Lin Zhen'er cornered Shen Daifu, aggressively demanding to know who Murong Qianyue was. Shen Daifu, while praising Murong Qianyue's beauty and musical talent from Huanyue State, vehemently denied any romantic interest after Lin Zhen'er accused him of liking her.
Back in her room, Lin Zhen'er found a note from Tu Siyi, inviting her to the Water Lantern Festival, which finally brought a smile to her face. That evening, everyone gathered by the river for the Water Lantern Festival, releasing their wishes into the water. Shen Daifu, whose lantern wished "To cure all people of diseases," earned Murong Qianyue's admiration for his "great ambition."
He took the opportunity to apologize for his earlier disrespectful behavior, explaining he had only intended to offer a gift but was rude. Murong Qianyue accepted his apology and reciprocated. Cui Xun, who had written "To dominate the whole Kungfu scene" on his lantern, initially expressed reluctance to write any wish, believing one should pursue ambitions directly rather than relying on prayers.
When Tu Siya pressed him about love, he declared he could "travel everywhere, even to the ends of the earth," and saw no reason to be tied down to one woman. Annoyed, Tu Siya then took his lantern and wrote "Lose to Tu Siya" on it, then wished him to "fall to death in a faraway corner of the world" before releasing it. Lin Zhen'er released her own lantern, silently shedding tears.
Observing her, Tu Siyi sent his own lantern floating towards her. On it, he had written: "Lin Zhen'er, It was my fault. I'm sorry. I won't do it again. Don't get angry with me. Not beautiful when being angry. You are not a very beautiful woman. Ha! Just kidding. Please forgive me." Reading his heartfelt apology, Lin Zhen'er burst into laughter. Their relationship mended, and Tu Siyi brought her a roasted corn, a gesture she found "naïve" but nonetheless endearing.
They embraced, and Tu Siyi expressed his desire to "go home together." Murong Qianyue, witnessing their tender moment, understood that Tu Siyi's heart was already taken. She released a lantern with the wish "To be free and happy," then told Shen Daifu that she would soon be departing. Shen Daifu wished her well, hoping fate would bring them together again if there was affinity between them. Meanwhile, the Second Prince was furious with his subordinate for failing a mission.
The subordinate, however, revealed crucial intelligence: Tu Siyi had given the "Ode to Lvqi" to Li Changxiu, the prince of Yuanri State. Using this information, the Second Prince formally accused Tu Siyi before the Emperor of treason and betrayal, alleging that the "Ode to Lvqi" contained clues to a national treasure. Unaware of the impending danger, Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er were enjoying the tranquility of a bamboo forest outside the palace.
Tu Siyi demonstrated how to make music by blowing on a bamboo leaf, remarking on the beautiful, yet serious, sound of the wind through the bamboos, which mirrored his own fluctuating mood. Their peaceful interlude was abruptly shattered when imperial officers arrived to arrest Tu Siyi on charges of treason and betrayal. Tu Siya, who was with them, tried to fight the officers, believing it to be a frame-up.
The officer explained that Tu Siyi was accused of giving the "Ode to Lvqi" to the Yuanri State prince, which they claimed contained clues to a national treasure. Lin Zhen'er vehemently defended Tu Siyi, denying any knowledge of a treasure, and insisted on accompanying him to the palace, threatening to violently defy the royal decree if prevented.
On their way to the palace, Lin Zhen'er expressed her worries to Tu Siyi about how to handle the accusation, especially if the "Ode to Lvqi" indeed contained treasure clues and he had given it away. Tu Siyi, confident in his innocence, asserted that he acted "in a completely open and aboveboard way" and would simply tell the truth, believing that finding Li Changxiu would clear his name.
He told Lin Zhen'er that this matter was none of her business and she should remain silent. However, in the imperial court, as the Second Prince pressed Tu Siyi to admit to giving the "Ode to Lvqi" to Li Changxiu, Lin Zhen'er quickly interjected, declaring that it was she who had secretly lent the music score to the Yuanri prince, not Tu Siyi.
She presented a letter from Li Changxiu bearing the Yuanri State imperial seal as evidence, explaining that the prince's mother had desired the score, and that the "treasure" mentioned in the letter referred to the "Ode to Lvqi" itself. Tu Siyi tried to stop her, but she persisted. The Second Prince accused her of fabricating stories and covering for a criminal, warning her of severe consequences.
Lin Zhen'er stood her ground, challenging the Second Prince to provide evidence against Tu Siyi, and stated that she and Li Changxiu had an agreement for him to return the score to Chuxing State within ten days. If he failed to do so, she declared, she would accept any punishment. Despite Tu Siyi's protests, Lin Zhen'er's unwavering resolve led him to stake his identity as a prince on her honesty.
The Second Prince, seizing the opportunity, proposed that while they await Li Changxiu's return, Lin Zhen'er be sent to the imperial prison. The Emperor agreed, and despite Tu Siyi's desperate pleas, Lin Zhen'er was taken away.
Episode 11 Recap
Lin Zhen'er found herself imprisoned, a situation that deeply infuriated Tu Siyi. He expressed his anger, questioning why Lin Zhen'er had sacrificed herself without his permission after promising to heed his words. Shen Daifu attempted to calm him, suggesting that Lin Zhen'er was intelligent and wouldn't act without certainty. Cui Xun echoed the sentiment, urging Tu Siyi to remain composed.
Tu Siyi, however, pushed them away, distressed that he could do nothing to help Lin Zhen'er until Li Changxiu was found. Shen Daifu tried to reassure him about the imperial prison, citing historical records that important persons confined there were usually treated with respect. Tu Siya, present at the time, naively chimed in, fantasizing about the imperial prison's comfortable environment and good food, even suggesting that Lin Zhen'er might gain weight.
Her optimistic view was abruptly shattered when a maid, seizing an opportunity, grimly stated that no one leaves the imperial prison alive and that Lin Zhen'er, being delicate, might already be suffering at the hands of cruel criminals, perhaps even torn into pieces. This news further agitated Tu Siyi, who, despite Cui Xun's plea for calm, declared he would not be stopped and commanded his companions to depart immediately for Yuanri State.
Meanwhile, Tu Siya, left behind at the mansion, was determined to rescue Lin Zhen'er. Learning from a maid that committing a crime was the only way to enter the imperial prison, she set out to commit minor offenses in the streets. When palace guards approached, she challenged them, insisting that laws applied equally to all. The guards informed her that her actions were not severe enough for the imperial prison, suggesting murder, arson, or assaulting officials.
Unable to commit the first two, Tu Siya opted to attack the guards. The guards, fearing punishment if they harmed a princess, feigned injury, praising her "masterful" martial arts. Tu Siya, unaware of their ruse, lamented her own "superior skills" for failing to be arrested. Tu Siyi, Shen Daifu, and Cui Xun pressed on towards Yuanri State, Tu Siyi growing increasingly impatient and worried for Lin Zhen'er.
Shen Daifu urged him to rest the horses, but Tu Siyi was resolute, determined to reach Li Changxiu quickly. He noted that Tu Siya was still asleep when they left, allowing their escape. During a brief rest, Shen Daifu playfully asked Cui Xun if he intended to marry Tu Siya. Cui Xun dismissed the idea, stating they were like brothers and that Tu Siya’s husband needed to be an extraordinary and open-minded man. Their conversation then turned to Li Changxiu.
Shen Daifu expressed caution, advising them to be careful, though he noted Li Changxiu appeared polite. Cui Xun, however, strongly disagreed, stating there were no truly polite people and describing Li Changxiu as crafty and with sinister intentions. Tu Siyi concurred, even vowing to cut off Li Changxiu's hand if he refused to hand over the "Ode to Lvqi." Upon arriving in Yuanri State, Cui Xun summoned his network of spies.
They quickly reviewed Li Changxiu's recent activities, learning that he had been seen practicing sword at Jiming Square, writing poetry on Jingting Mountain, helping an elderly man cross the road, and delivering food to disaster victims. Their crucial finding was that Li Changxiu had entered Qiwei Teahouse two days prior and had not been seen leaving since. At the teahouse, Tu Siyi showed the proprietor a portrait of Li Changxiu, but the man claimed no recollection.
Cui Xun, confident in his spies' information, deduced that Li Changxiu must still be inside, likely in hiding, anticipating their arrival. As they sat, Shen Daifu discovered that their tea was poisoned with ragweed, an acute toxin. Before he could warn everyone, he accidentally drank some and collapsed, frothing at the mouth. An ambush leader then appeared, taunting Tu Siyi's group. A fierce battle erupted between Cui Xun, his spies, and the assassins.
Tu Siyi, seeing an opportunity, rushed upstairs, calling out for Li Changxiu. He encountered a hidden attacker, but Cui Xun arrived just in time to save him. Together, they found Li Changxiu unconscious and tied up, quickly rescuing him. Back in the imperial prison, Lin Zhen'er faced the Second Prince, who mockingly asked about her well-being. She maintained a defiant front, claiming to be fine. The Second Prince then accused her of betraying him.
Lin Zhen'er denied it, attempting to convince him that her actions in court, taking the blame for Tu Siyi, were an elaborate plan to protect him by proving Tu Siyi's innocence regarding the treasure and preventing their father from suspecting infighting among the princes. The Second Prince, however, saw through her facade, accusing her of having fallen for Tu Siyi.
Lin Zhen'er tried to reiterate that bringing Li Changxiu and the music score back would clear all misunderstandings, but the Second Prince ominously revealed that he had sent assassins to ensure Tu Siyi would not return alive. He then presented a pre-written confession, demanding Lin Zhen'er sign it, implicating Tu Siyi in treason, promising her mercy if she complied. Lin Zhen'er defiantly refused to sign. Lord He then prepared to torture her.
Just as Lord He began, Tu Siyi burst into the prison, having raced back to the capital with Li Changxiu. He immediately apologized to Lin Zhen'er for his delay, who, relieved and exhausted, fainted. Lord He, intimidated, protested Tu Siyi's "prison break," but Tu Siyi dismissed him, implying his friends would explain the situation. The next day, in the imperial court, Tu Siyi presented the "Ode to Lvqi" to the Emperor.
Cui Xun explained that the music score was a gift from Tu Siyi to the Empress Dowager, who had long admired his father's music. He clarified that the "treasure" mentioned in the accompanying letter was not the music score itself, but rather a "delicacy" that Lin Zhen'er had introduced him to. Lin Zhen'er stepped forward to explain her invention, "instant noodles," which only required hot water to prepare. The Second Prince scorned the idea, calling it merely a "noodle cake."
Lin Zhen'er then delivered an impassioned marketing speech, highlighting how instant noodles could solve problems ranging from hunger to loneliness. Skeptical, the Emperor ordered hot water. The Second Prince, still disbelieving, tried a bowl and couldn't stop eating until the entire bowl was gone. The Emperor, curious, found only soup left. Tu Siyi reiterated that neither he, Lin Zhen'er, nor Li Changxiu knew of any treasure map within the music score.
The Second Prince pressed, demanding proof that Tu Siyi hadn't taken any treasure. An old minister then revealed a crucial detail: the late Emperor had deliberately hidden a treasure map "within" the "Ode to Lvqi" to prevent it from being used for nefarious purposes, and it could only be retrieved by burning the music score. Tu Siyi then used this revelation to turn the tables, exposing Lord He's actions.
He informed the Emperor that when he arrived at the imperial prison, Lord He was torturing Lin Zhen'er, which was a clear attempt to extract a false confession. The Emperor was enraged by the private punishment of the princess. The Second Prince, quick to minimize his involvement, intervened, offering to handle the "trifle" himself and ordered Lord He to be severely punished, effectively sacrificing his subordinate to protect himself. Following the dramatic events, Lin Zhen'er was safe.
That evening, she and Tu Siyi walked in the palace courtyard, where she noticed his quiet demeanor. She asked if he was upset about her taking the blame. Tu Siyi admitted his fear, saying she shouldn't have risked her life alone and imagining what might have happened if he hadn't returned in time with Li Changxiu. Lin Zhen'er reassured him, asking if he was injured during his journey.
Tu Siyi dismissed his own hardships as unimportant, emphasizing that her safety was paramount. He confessed that this experience had deeply affected him. He then vowed to Lin Zhen'er that he would strive to become the Crown Prince and ascend the throne. He explained that only by becoming powerful could he truly protect her, even if it meant sacrificing his own freedom. Lin Zhen'er understood, acknowledging his difficult path, and affirmed her belief in him. Tu Siyi reaffirmed his commitment, stating he could not bear to lose her again.
Episode 12 Recap
The next morning, Lin Zhen'er diligently woke early to grind ink and supervise the Third Prince's studies. Though he was determined to become the Crown Prince, he found the lessons uninteresting and repeatedly tried to delay, wishing Lin Zhen'er wouldn't constantly watch him. He knew she was doing it for his own good.
Initially, he attempted to change the subject, suggesting history instead of the art of war, then found excuses like a dirty desk and floor that needed cleaning and books that needed tidying. Lin Zhen'er internally noted his classic procrastination tactics, but she patiently stayed by his side, urging him to focus. He acknowledged the importance of her company, stating, "People say that love is a vow of eternal loyalty, while I say that love is a kind of company."
With her persistent encouragement, the Third Prince eventually applied himself, making significant academic progress and strengthening their emotional bond. Later, the Third Prince finally had a chance to go out, a much-needed break from his intense studies, which he confessed to Shen Daifu felt like "torture." While strolling, they unexpectedly encountered the fortuneteller, Zhuge Taotao. The Third Prince confronted Zhuge Taotao, calling him a "charlatan," but was convinced to have a divination.
The fortuneteller used "Holy water of Wudang" to reveal their future. The holy water boiled, a bad omen, and Zhuge Taotao confirmed his earlier prediction: the Third Prince and Lin Zhen'er's destinies clashed, and remaining together would lead to misfortune. When asked for a solution, Zhuge Taotao admitted he was powerless against matters of destiny and advised them to separate. The Third Prince, however, remained resolute.
He declared that while he had always been indecisive in life, his resolve to be with Lin Zhen'er was unshakeable. He stated that nothing, not even conflicting destinies, could keep them apart, and he abruptly departed. Despite his defiant words, the Third Prince was inwardly concerned for Lin Zhen'er's safety due to his deep love for her.
On his way back, he bought a pair of heart-shaped magnetic irons, explaining they symbolized an unbreakable bond, despite being worn as separate pendants. Lin Zhen'er playfully questioned the symbolism, but he reassured her that their connection was what truly mattered, and they would never separate. Meanwhile, Li Changxiu was preparing to return to Huanyue State to assist his father with state affairs. Tu Siya and Cui Xun accompanied him to a tea house for a farewell meal.
While Tu Siya stepped away to order their favorite dishes, Li Changxiu asked Cui Xun if he liked Tu Siya. Cui Xun quickly dismissed the idea, stating he saw her as a "bro." Li Changxiu, however, praised Tu Siya, describing her as "both gentle and strong, heroic and charming," a "good girl" whom he genuinely liked. He then subtly advised Cui Xun not to make the foolish mistake of not cherishing the person right in front of him.
Tu Siya soon returned, and after tasting the food, Li Changxiu was inspired to recite a poem, to which Tu Siya applauded enthusiastically. Cui Xun, visibly annoyed by their interaction, abruptly announced he had other commitments and left, claiming he couldn't see Li Changxiu off. Tu Siya later found Cui Xun practicing martial arts and playfully accused him of imitating Li Changxiu.
Cui Xun vehemently denied it, asserting his unique status as the "Little Tyrant of Chuxing State" and criticizing Li Changxiu's pretentious demeanor. They then bickered good-naturedly about Tu Siya's eating habits, and when Cui Xun inadvertently called her "beautiful," she was pleasantly surprised, leading to more playful banter between the two.
Soon, the Emperor's birthday approached, and as was customary, various neighboring nations would send delegates, including the King and Princess of Huanyue State, whose visit was suspected to also be for intelligence gathering. The Emperor decided to select a Goodwill Ambassador from his sons to represent Chuxing State's image in receiving the foreign envoys. Both the Second Prince and the Third Prince volunteered.
Influenced by the Second Prince's generous patronage, many court officials spoke in his favor, arguing that the Third Prince was too gentle and lacked the commanding presence needed for such an important role, while the Second Prince possessed a "sharp and domineering" look with "raised eyebrows" and "round earlobes" suitable for the position. Recognizing the unfair bias, Lin Zhen'er stepped forward, questioning the ministers' narrow aesthetic standards.
To prove her point, she asked the ministers to describe their ideal appearance for an ambassador. They detailed a specific look: a full forehead, square jaw, large nose, dark skin, and thick earlobes. Lin Zhen'er then presented a drawing based on their descriptions, revealing a rather unappealing caricature that made her point about their "single and unique" aesthetic.
She then proposed that to truly gauge "personal charm," both princes' portraits should be displayed on the city walls for three days, allowing all the common people to vote for their preferred ambassador. The Emperor, impressed by her logic, approved this democratic approach, to which the Second Prince reluctantly assented. Following this decision, Lin Zhen'er swiftly launched a modern, celebrity-style marketing campaign for the Third Prince.
She explained to her team that the competition was essentially about "who is more favorable." She named the Third Prince's fan base "Little Wings" (a homophone for "Yi," meaning wings, which is part of "Siyi," the Third Prince's name). She outlined a two-step strategy. The first step was to "leave a deep impression" by plastering the Third Prince's handsome portraits across the city, generating buzz and public admiration.
People on the streets praised his good looks and expressed their support, declaring themselves "Little Wings." The second step was to "reinforce goodwill and get more votes" by having supporters spread positive word-of-mouth, emphasizing his handsomeness, diligence, charm, and proficiency in various arts. This created an atmosphere where people believed the Third Prince was the clear favorite and that supporting him was the popular choice. Meanwhile, the Second Prince and his aide, Old Bai, were also strategizing.
The Second Prince fumed that Lin Zhen'er's plan had nullified his efforts to secure the support of many officials, reminding Old Bai that he had bought over most who could be swayed and eliminated the rest over the years. Old Bai assured him their alternative plan was in motion. They had arranged with the owner of Tianxiang Lou (a tea house) to offer free meals to anyone supporting the Second Prince.
The Yingyan Brothel, where the Second Prince was a regular, also pledged its full backing. The Second Prince confidently declared that any problem solvable by money was "not a real problem" for him, and that this competition must be won. Old Bai then proposed a name for their supporters: "Big Oranges," which the Second Prince found satisfactory.
Episode 13 Recap
The election for the Goodwill Ambassador began, with an official explaining the rules to the public. Lin Zhen'er encouraged Tu Siyi, assuring him of victory. The Second Prince, Tu Sicheng, spoke first, delivering a lengthy and complex speech about foreign policy, including the importance of "subduing enemies by the arm" when dealing with Huanyue State and mentioning borders with Xingchen and Haisu States. His words left the audience bored and unresponsive. Tu Sicheng even noted, "It sounds reasonable.
But why no one is listening? Maybe they are not professionals." Following this, Tu Siyi took the stage to a warm welcome, with the crowd chanting, "Little Wings!" He addressed them, encouraging a moment of quiet before presenting his vision: showing the Chuxing people's spirit to the visitors from Huanyue State, especially acknowledging "beautiful ladies" in the audience.
His engaging speech was met with enthusiastic applause, and during the voting, the public overwhelmingly raised white wings, symbolizing their support for Tu Siyi. Suddenly, a man with a broken leg stepped forward, accusing Lin Zhen'er, the Third Prince's consort, of many wrongdoings. He recounted how six months prior, she had ridden a horse recklessly, breaking his leg and then fleeing. Other citizens chimed in, recalling how she had framed a cloth merchant.
The crowd condemned Lin Zhen'er, questioning Tu Siyi's association with such a "malicious woman" and speculating that he might even wish to divorce her. Despite Lin Zhen'er's plea for him to leave her and her attempts to take responsibility, stating, "If you are not satisfied with me, just spill out your complaints to me. I will be responsible for everything that I did. Our Prince knew nothing about it," Tu Siyi descended from the platform.
He declared, "I will see who the hell dares to harm my wife," positioning himself in front of Lin Zhen'er, shielding her from the angry crowd. This act of protection caused the public to turn against him, with many immediately shouting their support for Tu Sicheng. Back home, Lin Zhen'er was filled with remorse, believing she had dragged Tu Siyi down. She apologized, lamenting that Tu Sicheng had won the election because of her.
Tu Siyi reassured her, "I would never think you were a burden to me. You are not the one before." When she asked why he still trusted her, he simply replied, "I don't know. There is a sound in my mind - I should always trust you." Lin Zhen'er's public actions inadvertently secured the Goodwill Ambassador title for Tu Sicheng. He later met with her, expressing remorse for her recent troubles.
Tu Sicheng revealed he had initially been confused by her actions but, upon reflection, praised her strategy. He believed she had cleverly feigned support for Tu Siyi while intentionally exposing her past notoriety to ensure his victory. " Bravo," he remarked. Lin Zhen'er subtly confirmed her manipulative intent, asking, "I know it's complicated and risking, so I chose to do it first and then reported the fact to you. Is that Okay?"
Tu Sicheng, now fully trusting her, declared their partnership would become "closer and firmer." He instructed her to "leave the way as it is" for now. His immediate priority was the upcoming birthday banquet for their father, which he saw as a critical opportunity to prove his competence and secure his position as Crown Prince. He told Lin Zhen'er to remain by Tu Siyi's side and continue monitoring him.
Lin Zhen'er assured him, "No worries, the Second Prince," but secretly vowed to herself, "I will surely not let you hold it successfully." The Emperor's birthday banquet began, with ambassadors from various states arriving. Tu Sicheng, to prevent Tu Siyi from greeting the guests, ordered him to serve as the Secretary of Writing, recording the gifts.
Tu Siyi initially resisted, pointing out that it was a clerk's duty, but Tu Sicheng, asserting his authority as Goodwill Ambassador, insisted that Tu Siyi was capable while the clerk was not. Tu Siyi, prioritizing the overall situation, reluctantly agreed. During the reception, the King of Huanyue State arrived with Princess Murong Qianyue. Murong Qianyue recognized Tu Siyi, who was standing behind Tu Sicheng, and realized he was the Third Prince.
She expressed her delight at their reunion, explaining that she had concealed her identity while traveling alone, a secret Tu Siyi had also kept. They agreed they were "even" now. The King of Huanyue was impressed by Tu Siyi, praising his "good appearance and great responsibility" and his hands-on approach, seeing it as a sign of his care for his people. Tu Sicheng quickly interjected, urging everyone to move inside to rest.
Tu Siyi later informed Lin Zhen'er that at the upcoming appreciation banquet, he would be tasked with distributing gifts while Tu Sicheng would announce the names of the foreign envoys. Lin Zhen'er realized this was an opportunity, knowing that Tu Sicheng was not proficient in foreign languages. She tested Tu Siyi, speaking to him in a foreign tongue. To their surprise, Tu Siyi understood and responded fluently, even repeating phrases like "Do you love me?" in the foreign language.
Lin Zhen'er credited this to her past influence in the game, where she had encouraged him to expand into the "Asian market." She then quickly devised a plan: Tu Siyi would memorize the gift list, and then they would destroy Tu Sicheng's copy. That night, they stealthily entered Tu Sicheng's room.
Luckily, Tu Sicheng was preoccupied playing a blindfolded game with his lover, Zha Ruirui, allowing Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siyi to locate the list and successfully carry out their plan. Tu Siyi expressed some reservations about destroying the list, but Lin Zhen'er dismissed his concerns, emphasizing the importance of Tu Sicheng being publicly humiliated.
The following day, at the appreciation banquet, Tu Sicheng dramatically opened the gift list, only for the white phosphorus applied by Lin Zhen'er to spontaneously ignite, destroying the document in front of everyone. A guest humorously remarked on Tu Sicheng's "marvelous" pre-announcement "show." As Tu Sicheng struggled to recall the names, Lin Zhen'er subtly prompted Tu Siyi that it was "your show time now." Tu Siyi stepped forward and confidently offered to take over.
He flawlessly announced each ambassador and their corresponding gifts, speaking in multiple foreign languages to diplomats from Yabei, Haluya, and Huanyue State. He conveyed that the Longxiao Sword was conferred to the Ambassador of Yabei State and a Yaoqin to the Ambassador of Haluya State, emphasizing the honor of the Huanyue King's personal visit. The King of Huanyue State particularly praised Tu Siyi's competence and linguistic skills.
However, a guest's comment that Tu Siyi and Princess Murong Qianyue would make a "perfect match" if he weren't already married angered Lin Zhen'er. The Emperor, furious at Tu Sicheng's blunder, chastised him for nearly ruining the state's reputation. He immediately revoked Tu Sicheng's title as Goodwill Ambassador, appointing Tu Siyi in his place and expressing high expectations for his performance. Tu Siyi humbly accepted, vowing not to disappoint his father.
With Tu Siyi having won the Emperor's trust, Lin Zhen'er, full of excitement, decided to cook a celebratory meal herself. However, the household staff were wary, recalling that her previous attempt at cooking potatoes had left Tu Siyi with diarrhea for three days. As Lin Zhen'er returned from the kitchen, her face smudged with soot, she found Murong Qianyue had arrived.
Murong Qianyue explained that she had finished her official duties and wished to visit Tu Siyi and his household, even offering to cook some Huanyue dishes. She also presented Tu Siyi with some delightful Huanyue desserts, which he acknowledged were "good." Despite Murong Qianyue's offer and delicacies, Tu Siyi ultimately chose Lin Zhen'er's potato dish. He tasted it and told Lin Zhen'er, "The potatoes you prepared last time are not well cooked. I had suffered from diarrhea for three days.
And the problem was well solved this time. I can feel your heart," affirming his appreciation for her effort. Shortly after, a servant delivered grim news: the carefully prepared musicians for the Emperor's birthday banquet had been ambushed by robbers en route to the palace, their dominant hands injured, rendering them unable to perform. Lin Zhen'er quickly deduced that Tu Sicheng was behind the attack, knowing he wouldn't dare harm palace staff.
Seizing the opportunity, she decided to assemble a new orchestra from within the palace, tapping into unexpected talents. She identified a eunuch with a strong voice for high notes, a chopping master with excellent rhythm for drums, a fire master who could integrate sound with his control of flames, and Imperial Doctor Su, whose precise pulse-taking skills could be applied to stringed instruments.
When Tu Siyi worried about managing so many new recruits, Lin Zhen'er assured him she would handle the organization, encouraging him to focus on the musical direction. During their efforts at Minglv Garden, Murong Qianyue unexpectedly appeared, claiming she was there for a visit and offering her assistance, stating, "I happen to know a little about music and rhythm, would you mind me going with you?"
Tu Siyi readily agreed, and Lin Zhen'er, despite her reluctance, had no choice but to accept. As they guided the new musicians, Lin Zhen'er observed Tu Siyi and Murong Qianyue happily collaborating, with Tu Siyi giving detailed instructions to Imperial Doctor Su, while Lin Zhen'er herself brought honey water. Lin Zhen'er felt increasingly isolated and neglected, wondering, "Why can she always appear at the right time?" Distressed by this, she later found a modern-looking message bottle.
Inside, a message from Xiao En revealed a crucial game tip: for Tu Siyi to ascend the throne smoothly and for them to complete their mission and return to reality, the "hero and heroine" must marry. The heroine, Xiao En specified, was Murong Qianyue. This devastating revelation left Lin Zhen'er reeling, making her question if all her efforts had been in vain.
She realized that in the original plot, Murong Qianyue and Tu Siyi were destined companions, and her actions had inadvertently turned Murong Qianyue into a "bad girl" in Tu Siyi's heart. She wondered if she was meant to push the man she loved toward another woman. " No!" she concluded.
Episode 14 Recap
Distraught by the realization that Murong Qianyue is the true heroine and she is merely a supporting antagonist, Lin Zhengzheng questioned her maid, Mu Yan, asking who resembled the female lead more. Mu Yan, without hesitation, affirmed that Princess Murong Qianyue fit the role. Mu Yan explained that Qianyue’s appearance, being plump and decent, appealed to men, whereas Lin Zhengzheng, with her more masculine features, was favored by women.
She added that Qianyue appeared vulnerable and somewhat ignorant in front of Tu Siyi, showing admiration, yet she possessed musical knowledge that allowed her to connect with him. In contrast, Lin Zhengzheng was overly intelligent and skilled in martial arts, which might make men feel inferior. Mu Yan further pointed out that Tu Siyi’s time with Lin Zhengzheng was often fraught with danger, leaving no room for romance, while with Qianyue, they could enjoy harmonious musical moments.
Lin Zhengzheng, initially defensive about her martial arts protecting Tu Siyi, conceded that her assertiveness might be perceived as overbearing and wondered if this dynamic was indeed the legendary "heroine aura." To verify Murong Qianyue’s supposed heroine aura, Lin Zhengzheng secretly followed her. She observed Qianyue kindly distributing sweets to children, who affectionately called her "Sister Fairy."
Lin Zhengzheng then decided to test the aura by deliberately throwing stones at Qianyue, but each attempt was skillfully dodged, convincing Lin Zhengzheng that Qianyue possessed "100% danger avoidance." She continued to observe Qianyue's behavior, noticing that Qianyue appeared remarkably clever when interacting with others. For instance, she effortlessly solved a complex "chicken and rabbit in a cage" problem for some palace staff, earning their fervent admiration.
However, when with Tu Siyi, Qianyue seemed to lose her intellectual prowess, claiming to have forgotten a music score. Tu Siyi, finding her forgetfulness charming, helped her recall the difficult passages, which Qianyue praised him for. Lin Zhengzheng also observed Qianyue's tolerant nature when Qianyue asked for her ideas for the Emperor's birthday song, eager to include her and avoid making her feel excluded. All these observations solidified Lin Zhengzheng's belief that Murong Qianyue was undeniably the heroine.
Meanwhile, a worried Tu Siyi consulted Shen Daifu and Cui Xun about Lin Zhengzheng's recent melancholy. Shen Daifu attributed it to physiological causes, while Cui Xun, a bachelor, cynically commented on women's troublesome nature, their tendency to say "I'm fine" when they are not, and his inability to comprehend them. Tu Siyi dismissed Cui Xun’s advice. Wanting to cheer Lin Zhengzheng up with a gift, Tu Siyi allowed Cui Xun to accompany him.
Cui Xun insisted they visit a weapon shop, where he enthusiastically demonstrated various fitness equipment such as shoulder poles, wooden boats, and stone dumbbells, explaining their benefits for strengthening muscles and internal force. Tu Siyi, however, found these items impractical for Lin Zhengzheng, who, despite her lively nature, was not one to wield weapons. He noted that Lin Zhengzheng had been exhausted from preparations for the Emperor's birthday. Tu Siyi suggested that soothing snacks would be more appropriate for her.
Cui Xun then realized that such equipment would be more suitable for Tu Siya. Back at the mansion, as Tu Siyi continued to ponder a suitable gift, Cui Xun noticed Tu Siyi unconsciously biting his chopsticks, finding the habit "cute." Soon after, they encountered Tu Siya, who was also brainstorming ideas to uplift Lin Zhengzheng's spirits, jokingly suggesting a show called "Beating Cui Xun Fiercely."
Cui Xun then presented Tu Siya with the stone dumbbell he had acquired, explaining its benefits for strength and internal force. Tu Siya, while acknowledging her superior martial arts skills, appreciated the gift for its training value. Later, Cui Xun observed Tu Siya making a similar thinking gesture, biting her finger, which he again found "so cute" and "liked very much," prompting him to impulsively reach out to her. Tu Siya playfully caught his hand and twisted his arm.
Consumed by her distress over the heroine matter, Lin Zhengzheng sought out the fortune-teller, Zhuge Taotao. Skeptical of his usual tricks, she demanded more substantial evidence. The fortune-teller, acknowledging his past limitations and recent progress, handed her the Sky Eye Mirror, which he claimed could directly answer questions about the future. Lin Zhengzheng asked, "What will happen if Tu Siyi is in love with Murong Qianyue?"
The mirror revealed a vision, which, to Lin Zhengzheng's shock, caused the mirror to shatter. The fortune-teller solemnly advised her that only by distancing herself from Tu Siyi could his fate return to its rightful path. This revelation, though seemingly simplifying her mission to return to reality, plunged Lin Zhengzheng into deeper turmoil.
She expressed her reluctance to push Tu Siyi into another woman’s arms, even as she longed for the nightmare to end and for them to return to their real lives. She agonizingly wondered if Tu Siyi's willingness to be with another woman meant he could easily abandon her. That evening, Tu Siyi visited Lin Zhengzheng, expressing concern over her recent mood.
His vague responses about his late-night plans, first mentioning borrowing books from the imperial study and then quickly backtracking to say he was going to sleep, struck Lin Zhengzheng as odd. She decided it was best not to grow too close to him and sent him away. However, remembering something she needed to give him, she followed, only to witness Tu Siyi and Murong Qianyue departing together.
This sight fueled her anger, leading her to internally call Tu Siyi a "bastard" and threaten him if the game didn't progress quickly enough. The next morning, to her dismay, Tu Siyi burst in, excitedly proclaiming that Chuxing State and Huanyue State had signed a long-awaited peace agreement. While Tu Siya celebrated this as a step towards Tu Siyi becoming Crown Prince, Lin Zhengzheng, though feigning happiness, found herself deeply saddened, believing this development was not a good omen.
The Emperor's birthday banquet commenced with various princes and princesses presenting their gifts. The Second Prince offered a luminous pearl, wishing the Emperor eternal radiance, which pleased His Majesty. Tu Siya presented her own painting, which was quickly dismissed. When it was Tu Siyi's turn, he offered a unique gift: a rendition of the "Happy Birthday to You" song, a tune Lin Zhengzheng had once casually hummed. Murong Qianyue graced the performance with a dance.
The Emperor was delighted, especially by the fact that palace staff, including Imperial Doctor Zhang, had joined the chorus, embodying a peaceful flourishing age. When Tu Siyi attempted to credit Lin Zhengzheng for the idea, Murong Qianyue swiftly interjected, claiming she had assisted him out of sympathy for his hard work, effectively taking the credit.
Witnessing Tu Siyi and Qianyue's intimate exchanges during the performance, and Qianyue's graceful dance, Lin Zhengzheng felt a pang of inadequacy and began to seriously reconsider the fortune-teller's advice. Following Tu Siyi's well-received gift, which greatly pleased the Emperor, Murong Qianyue seized the opportunity to request a guide to explore Chuxing State, specifying Tu Siyi for the role. Tu Siyi, visibly reluctant, tried to decline.
The Second Prince quickly offered to accompany Qianyue instead, but the Emperor, bound by his word, insisted that Qianyue's choice be honored. At this pivotal moment, Lin Zhengzheng, overriding Tu Siyi's hesitation, surprisingly interjected, "That's right, Your Highness. Just play the host." Her unexpected agreement ultimately compelled Tu Siyi to accept the assignment.
Returning to her room, feeling dejected and hungry after the banquet, Lin Zhengzheng was ambushed by Tu Siyi, Tu Siya, Shen Daifu, and Cui Xun, who "attacked" her with cake and sang "Happy Birthday to You" in celebration of her own birthday. Lin Zhengzheng was touched by their gesture. She asked Tu Siyi why he wasn't at the celebration banquet with Murong Qianyue, to which he tenderly replied that nothing was more important than her.
Praising the delicious cake, Lin Zhengzheng's happiness became complicated when Tu Siyi revealed that Murong Qianyue had taught him how to bake it, explaining he had been secretly meeting her to learn it as a surprise for Lin Zhengzheng. Tu Siyi sensed her unease and asked if she suspected anything between him and Qianyue, offering to take her along if he toured with Qianyue. Lin Zhengzheng declined, stating she wouldn't "cause trouble" for his imperial duty.
Internally, she grappled with conflicting emotions, wishing for something to happen between them to fulfill her mission, yet unable to shake off the sweetness of Tu Siyi's affection. She reminded herself to stay focused on completing the task and leaving the game.
Episode 15 Recap
Lin Zhen'er, using a makeshift string-and-cup phone, communicated with Tu Siyi from a distance, urging him to accept Murong Qianyue's invitation for an outing. She didn't voice her inner reluctance, but instead emphasized that a good relationship with Murong Qianyue would strengthen ties between Huanyue State and Chuxing State, earn him favor with the Emperor, and pave his way to the imperial prince title, even suggesting marriage as a means to achieve this.
Tu Siyi, having recently spent time learning cake-making with Murong Qianyue, initially misinterpreted Lin Zhen'er's words as jealousy. He became angry when she suggested marrying for the throne, emphasizing that his actions were not for power but driven by his sincere feelings for her and to make her life better.
Lin Zhen'er, however, feigned indifference, claiming her unwavering pursuit of power meant she did not care if he married other women, and threatened to dislike him more if he didn't follow her advice. Tu Siyi found Lin Zhen'er crying, not knowing the reason for her distress. He apologized, assuring her that his efforts were solely to protect her, not for the imperial prince title or the throne. He asked her to stop being upset, and they reconciled.
Later, Tu Siyi approached Shen Daifu, hoping he could use his disguise technique to impersonate him for the date with Murong Qianyue. Shen Daifu initially refused, citing the severe consequences of impersonating royalty and his principled stance against deception. However, upon learning the date was with Murong Qianyue, Shen Daifu's interest was immediately piqued. He quickly agreed, dismissing the risk of beheading as merely a small sacrifice for their decade-long brotherhood.
Tu Siyi instructed Shen Daifu not to imitate him but to simply be himself, promising him access to the best medical books in the imperial library as a reward. Shen Daifu then skillfully transformed himself to perfectly resemble Tu Siyi, even mimicking his voice. Unbeknownst to them, the Second Prince had already investigated the planned outing location, Cang Lan Mountain. He arranged for a fake bandit to ambush them, intending to stage a heroic rescue to impress Murong Qianyue.
Shen Daifu, disguised as Tu Siyi, embarked on the outing with Murong Qianyue. Murong Qianyue admired the scenic beauty of Cang Lan Mountain in poetic terms, but Shen Daifu, with his medical background, viewed the landscape through a different lens. He identified what she thought were dandelions as "Nose-cut Grasses," useful for treating hemorrhoids, much to her bewilderment.
He then candidly described a rather gruesome method for creating animal specimens, using a rabbit as an example, further highlighting his profound interest in medicine. Despite his peculiar observations, Murong Qianyue was surprisingly captivated by his knowledgeable and passionate demeanor, seeing him as someone dedicated to the welfare of the people. During their outing, a real bandit unexpectedly attacked, instead of the fake one arranged by the Second Prince.
The Second Prince, still intending his heroic entrance, intervened, but was genuinely wounded by the actual bandit. Shen Daifu swiftly stepped in, paying off the bandit with money and then tearing his own clothes to expertly bandage the Second Prince's wound. This display of medical skill and compassion deeply impressed Murong Qianyue. After the outing, Murong Qianyue expressed her newfound admiration to her father, the Emperor of Huanyue State.
She spoke highly of "Tu Siyi's" kind, sensible nature, musical talent, and overall suitability as a candidate for the Chuxing State's imperial prince, requesting her father to propose a marriage alliance between them. Her father, pleased with her choice, agreed to discuss the matter with the Chuxing Emperor. Meanwhile, Tu Siyi was eager to hear from Shen Daifu, expecting Murong Qianyue to have been put off by Shen Daifu's "stiff" and "boring" persona.
He was dismayed to learn that Murong Qianyue actually desired another date in Yuan Ming Valley. Tu Siyi angrily accused Shen Daifu of being selfish and making his situation with Murong Qianyue even more complicated. Shen Daifu, equally upset, confessed his genuine feelings for Murong Qianyue, declaring he couldn't deliberately make someone he liked detest him, even when impersonating Tu Siyi. Their argument intensified, with Shen Daifu asserting he could no longer be Tu Siyi's subordinate, only his friend.
A disheartened Tu Siyi later encountered Lin Zhen'er. She calmly reiterated her stance that he should cultivate a closer relationship with Murong Qianyue, reminding him that in their world, love was a luxury. Tu Siyi was deeply hurt, recalling how she had once taught him that love was simple. Despite their heated exchange, Tu Siyi and Shen Daifu played a ball game the following day.
Tu Siyi accidentally sustained an injury, and Shen Daifu, ever the dedicated physician, competently reset his bone. Suddenly, the Emperor summoned Tu Siyi to the palace to discuss matters of governance. The Emperor emphasized that a true ruler makes the right decisions at the right time, then commanded Tu Siyi to marry Murong Qianyue to secure lasting peace with Huanyue State. He granted Tu Siyi half a day to consider.
Overwhelmed, Tu Siyi rushed back to his residence, intending to elope with Lin Zhen'er to escape the unwanted marriage. He bid emotional farewells to his brother and Shen Daifu, instructing Shen Daifu to care for Siya. Upon reaching Lin Zhen'er at the entrance of the residence, Tu Siyi revealed his plan to elope. However, Lin Zhen'er refused, arguing that all their past efforts would be in vain if they fled.
She pretended to be consumed by ambition, reaffirming her desire for him to become the imperial prince and claiming she was indifferent to him marrying another woman. Heartbroken by her perceived coldness, Tu Siyi refused to marry Murong Qianyue. Tu Siyi's repeated defiance greatly angered the Emperor of Huanyue State. Realizing Tu Siyi's genuine reluctance, Murong Qianyue proactively requested the Chuxing Emperor to organize a Competition in which her partner could be chosen.
As punishment for disobeying the imperial edict, Tu Siyi was demoted and exiled to guard the Dragon-protecting mountain range for two years, forbidden from returning to the capital or bringing any servants. He accepted the decree.
Episode 16 Recap
Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er prepared to depart for the Imperial Mausoleum, as mandated by the Emperor's decree. As they bid farewell to Siya, Cui Xun, and Shen Daifu, Siya expressed a desire to accompany them. Tu Siyi gently refused, explaining, "The imperial decree is no joke. It will be good for you to stay here and look after the house for me."
Shen Daifu offered some parting medical advice, urging them to "go to bed early and get up early next morning, drink more water and eat more vegetables. Go to a doctor when you are ill, because a minor illness left unattended will deteriorate into a major one." Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er both responded with "Take care." Their escorts conveyed them for a significant part of the journey before stopping.
The lead escort informed them, "Your Highness Third Prince and Third Princess. It will take you one more half an hour to reach the imperial mausoleum ahead. There is a dwelling halfway up the mountain. As the imperial decree states, we have to leave you here." Lin Zhen'er protested, "An hour's way is not long, but no one will accompany us. You don't even leave a horse to us."
The escort, however, reiterated the Emperor's strict orders, "As His Majesty said, not a single man or horse to give you. I don't dare to disobey His Majesty's order." Tu Siyi accepted their fate, "It doesn't matter. Thank you for escorting us all the way here." The escort concluded, "I just did what I ought to do. Your Highness Prince and Princess. From now on you can only rely on yourselves. I hope you can take good care of yourselves."
As they walked towards their new home, Tu Siyi tried to lift Lin Zhen'er's spirits, pointing out the scenery, "Zhen'er. Look!" He asked, "Zhen'er. You're not happy by my side, are you?" Lin Zhen'er confessed her sadness, "Yes. I didn't expect that we have to wait such a long period of time as two years before we return to the Capital City. I don't know what to do."
Tu Siyi, however, embraced their new situation, "If all of this hadn't happened, I would not be with you now. Look! What beautiful scenery here! All the noise in the world has nothing to do with you or me. No one is here except you and me. Haven't you thought about being with me like this?" Lin Zhen'er admitted, "Yes, I have. Perhaps this is a god-sent vacation during which we can guard such a beautiful place under orders.
Isn't that nice?" Tu Siyi agreed, "We really haven't had a vacation like this for a long time." Lin Zhen'er pondered their future dwelling, "What will the dwelling we are going to move in be like?" to which Tu Siyi replied optimistically, "Only members of the imperial family can live here. So it should be good." Upon reaching their assigned residence, Lin Zhen'er was dismayed, exclaiming, "This place is even worse than the imperial prison."
The neglected wooden house was indeed covered in cobwebs. Together, they cleaned the room. Afterwards, Lin Zhen'er felt bored, stating, "I feel like I've done all that I have to do for years in one morning. It's so boring. We're not really going to be here for two years, are we?" Tu Siyi, feigning offense, asked, "How dare you! You feel boring when being with me? Do you want to die?" Lin Zhen'er retorted dramatically, "I'd rather die than live."
To combat their boredom, Tu Siyi revealed he had brought a "cuju" ball and proposed a new game. They adapted it to a basketball-like game. The Chinese plot indicates that Lin Zhen'er, with her excellent martial arts, easily caught every ball from the Third Prince, which frustrated him; however, without using "qinggong", Lin Zhenzheng would have been easily defeated. While playing, Tu Siyi was pleased when he scored, exclaiming "Goal!"
However, Lin Zhen'er found the game boring, stating, "I think it's the most boring game in the world." Tu Siyi disagreed, "No. I think it's interesting. I think I'm starting to like this place. Because I can practice Qinggong kung fu." Lin Zhen'er quickly interjected, "You shall not practice Qinggong kung fu!" As Lin Zhen'er prepared to cook, Tu Siyi instructed her, "Zhen'er. If you have nothing else to do while you are cooking, please wash the clothes.
I am going to play the Guqin." Later, he complained about her cooking, causing her to lash out, "How can I eat this? Hey! Don't you know that I never do the cooking? Back at home my mom cooks food for me. And I have maids in my house. You are playing the Guqin in an idyllic place while I am cooking food in the kitchen. Don't you know that I am also a Master not your maid."
Tu Siyi tried to calm her, "Okay. Chill out. You will be much hungrier if you get angry." When Lin Zhen'er suggested eating dry food, Tu Siyi admitted he hadn't brought any, explaining, "It tastes bad. I'm a fussy eater. How can I eat this kind of food?" With no food, Tu Siyi declared, "Zhen'er, don't worry. I will never let my wife go hungry.
As you can see, we are in such a wild place and our dining room is surrounded by mountains and rivers. I believe there is much food in this area." Lin Zhen'er, however, was impatient, urging him, "Be quick! Get me something to eat. Be quick!" As they searched for food, she kept repeating "I am hungry," to which Tu Siyi assured her, "You can rest assured that I will find you something to eat." They soon found wild fruits.
Tu Siyi, concerned about poison, insisted on being the first to taste them. " Don't you eat first!" he told Lin Zhen'er. " Let me take the first bite. If I am still okay half an hour later. You can eat. Because we're in a remote wild place like this, and the variety of this fruit is also very strange, I fear that it's poisonous." Lin Zhen'er bravely declared, "It doesn't matter. If we're gonna die, we will die together."
However, shortly after eating, they both suffered upset stomachs. Tu Siyi admitted, "Zhen'er. We cannot eat these fruits," to which Lin Zhen'er agreed. Still hungry, Lin Zhen'er, now desperate for meat, declared she would return to the capital, even if it meant being beheaded, just to eat meat first. Tu Siyi promised her, "Okay. We'll eat meat. We'll surely eat meat." She then demanded, "Go and catch some fish. Tu Siyi. Go and catch some fish."
While trying to catch fish, Lin Zhen'er chided Tu Siyi for his lack of success, suggesting, "Why don't you have a try? After all you are a kung fu master. You have a try." In the process, she accidentally pricked Tu Siyi's foot. She quickly apologized, "Sorry. Your Highness. I really want to eat meat."
Tu Siyi then waxed poetic about the natural beauty, observing the "chirps of birds are like music" and "fish are frolicking in the river," but admitted that his hunger made him view all these as "food, but not on my plate." Just then, a rabbit hopped into their view. Lin Zhen'er affectionately suggested naming it "Baby Tu," given Tu Siyi's surname. Tu Siyi, ever practical, pointed out, "What I'm thinking is that we can also eat the rabbit."
Lin Zhen'er was shocked, "How can you eat a rabbit?" She asked if he would release it, but Tu Siyi refused. After some thought, he offered a grim consolation to the rabbit, "I'm sorry. After you fill us up, we will take good care of your family when we meet them," which Lin Zhen'er sarcastically followed with, "When we meet its family, we will possibly eat them. Right?"
Tu Siyi explained his sentiment, "What I said is just to make it feel better when it dies. You're so. . . Since you are kind-hearted, you don't need to eat it later on." Carrying the rabbit, Lin Zhen'er complained, asking Tu Siyi to carry it for her. He refused, claiming he needed to lead the way to scare off snakes. Lin Zhen'er quipped that if there were snakes, they would eat those too.
She pressed him, arguing that as a man, he should help, pointing out his limited contributions so far. Tu Siyi retorted that he would be responsible for making the fire. Lin Zhen'er reflected in a voiceover, "Sometimes Tu Siyi is so rebellious that he is like a child. The more you take him seriously, the more naive he is."
Tu Siyi, in his own voiceover, mused, "I think when two people together, it's impossible for either one of them to change the other. That's the best love." When they tried to make a fire, Tu Siyi realized he had forgotten the flint stone. Lin Zhen'er accused him of being responsible for bringing essential items, but Tu Siyi countered that they should remind each other.
Their argument escalated, with Lin Zhen'er insisting it was his fault for not bringing his assigned items. Tu Siyi, tired of arguing, then declared, "I don't want to argue with you anymore." During the heated exchange, Lin Zhen'er twisted her ankle. Tu Siyi asked, "Zhen'er. What's wrong? You hurt your ankle." He mistakenly identified the wrong foot, but quickly tended to her. Lin Zhen'er blamed him, "It was all your fault. I have told you not to walk around."
Tu Siyi, however, took responsibility, "Well, I won't say anything. It was all my fault." After she complained "It hurts," their argument cooled, and they finally roasted and ate the rabbit. Tu Siyi commented, "Lovely animals are so delicious. We shall not eat such lovely animals next time." To secure more food, they decided to compete in catching rabbits. Tu Siyi proposed, "Zhen'er, you go that way. I'll go this way. Let's see who catches more rabbits."
Lin Zhen'er confidently accepted, "Okay. I won't lose." However, neither caught anything. Lin Zhen'er cried, "Tell me what to do. Not a single rabbit can I catch." Tu Siyi then remembered a strategy, "Zhen'er. I have an idea. Do you still remember the music competition at Cui's mansion?" Lin Zhen'er understood, and working together, they successfully captured a rabbit. Their daily life settled into a rhythm of playing their modified "cuju" game and hunting rabbits.
One day, while playing the game, Tu Siyi expressed his happiness, "Zhen'er, do you know why I like this place? Because I have idyllic life, music and you. That's enough. I didn't expect that in this world I can realize the dream I have in the real world." Lin Zhen'er wistfully replied, "Tu Siyi. If you had pursued this life earlier, we would not have gone through a lot of trouble to come here."
Tu Siyi agreed, finding peace in their present circumstances, "Right. We don't need to worry about our future. Right here right now, I have nothing to worry about." Meanwhile, back in the capital, Princess Qianyue of Huanyue State initiated her husband selection competition. An announcer declared the rules, "If you want to be the husband of her, you must be an outstanding person with good appearance and great talent and intelligence.
So, the questions of the competition were designed by Princess Qianyue. Altogether three questions. Only the person who can answer all the three questions correctly can marry the princess." The first question was posed, a complex problem about filling and draining a basin simultaneously. The Second Prince eagerly urged the exam officer to "Think about the question."
After the time limit, the announcer revealed the successful candidates: "Now I declare that the persons who have the correct answer are Second Prince, Young Master Yang, Young Master Liu, and Young Master Zhu." The Huan Emperor questioned an attendant, "Is there anything wrong?" The attendant confirmed that only these four had passed Princess Qianyue's challenging first round. The Huan Emperor expressed his dismay at the lack of talent in Chuxing State, but Qianyue insisted on continuing.
The second question followed, a word problem about two brothers' journey to school. During this round, the Second Prince attempted to bribe the exam officer, saying, "If you let me make it to the next round, you will benefit a lot." However, when time was up, only Young Master Liu was announced as correct. The Second Prince, furious, protested, "My answer can't be wrong!" The official, after reconfirming the error, declared him eliminated.
The Second Prince, invoking his father's name, resisted being escorted out, but was removed nonetheless. When the Huan Emperor asked if he had anything else to say, the Second Prince claimed he had written the correct answer. The official then challenged him to publicly state his answer for Qianyue to judge, but the Second Prince conceded, "Your Majesty. I have made a mistake. I lost." Young Master Liu, now the sole remaining participant, gloated, "Now I'm the only one here.
I am the winner." The Huan Emperor, deeming the prince "too weak," had him removed. Disappointed by the poor showing of Chuxing's men, the Huan Emperor decided to postpone the competition, telling Qianyue, "Yue'er. Go home with me. We'll talk about it later." Qianyue, however, refused to give up, pleading, "No. Your Majesty. Though there is no winner this time, I hope to hold another round of competition."
The Huan Emperor was skeptical, arguing, "Is there any use having another round? As you saw today, even Second Prince lost. I believe that Chu Emperor doesn't really want to help us." Qianyue then proposed a powerful incentive, "I humbly request that we present our national treasure Guizhong Flower as the prize of the competition."
She described the Guizhong Flower as "billed as the king of national treasure," blossoming "once a hundred years," and capable of "relieving the most unusual poison." She confidently asserted that with such a prize, "there will be many outstanding men taking part in the competition." The Huan Emperor reluctantly agreed, "Okay. I'll give you one more chance." Shortly after, Princess Qianyue privately instructed her maid Qinghe, "I have one thing for you to finish for me."
While Tu Siyi was out, Lin Zhen'er sensed a disturbance outside their dwelling. Investigating, she found nothing amiss and unknowingly drank poisoned tea. When Tu Siyi returned with pears, he found Lin Zhen'er unwell and unresponsive. " Zhen'er. What's wrong with you? Don't be afraid. I'll take you downhill to see the doctor," he frantically said. He quickly rushed her down the mountain, pleading, "Zhen'er, hold on, hold on.
Even if I disobey the imperial decree, I would return to the Capital City and make Shen Daifu cure you. Hold on." Princess Qianyue received confirmation from Qinghe that Lin Zhen'er was "unconscious" and that local doctors were "unable to cure her." Just as Qianyue expected, Tu Siyi was "rushing back to the Capital City." Back in the capital, Tu Siyi urgently brought Lin Zhen'er to Shen Daifu's residence.
Shen Daifu, surprised to see them, quickly assessed Lin Zhen'er's condition. " This is a symptom of being poisoned," he gravely stated. " It's not life-threatening at the moment, but her body is declining. That's very bad. We shall not miss the best time to cure her." However, Shen Daifu admitted the poison was "so intense" that he was "afraid there is nothing I can do with the poison."
He then revealed a glimmer of hope: "But there is a kind of flower called Guizhong in Huanyue State, which blossoms once a hundred years. That flower can relieve any poison." Tu Siyi immediately offered to go find it, but Shen Daifu stopped him, explaining, "That flower is here, in Chuxing State."
When Tu Siyi asked who possessed it, Shen Daifu revealed the crucial information: "There is a competition to choose the prospective husband of Princess Qianyue, the prize of which is Guizhong Flower." This implied that the only way to obtain the antidote was for Tu Siyi to win the competition and marry Princess Qianyue.
Episode 17 Recap
A remarriage competition for Princess Murong Qianyue was held, featuring a challenge called "True Love Fears No Fire." Contestants had to retrieve a Guizhong Flower from the "Mandarin Duck Fire." When no one dared to risk their life, Tu Siyi arrived, apologizing to the Emperor for his unauthorized return. He explained that Lin Zhen'er was afflicted with a strange poison, and only the Guizhong Flower could save her.
Princess Murong Qianyue stated that to obtain the flower, he had to participate in the competition, which meant agreeing to marry her. Left with no other choice, Tu Siyi accepted the challenge. He plunged his hand into the flames, enduring severe burns, and successfully retrieved the Guizhong Flower, collapsing from exhaustion. Upon returning to his residence, Tu Siyi, though gravely injured, insisted that Shen Daifu attend to Lin Zhen'er first.
Shen Daifu reassured him that Zhen'er had taken the antidote, her pulse was stable, and she would soon wake up. He also revealed that he had preemptively applied a cooling balm to Tu Siyi’s hand, preventing even more severe injuries. Shortly after, Princess Murong Qianyue visited, inquiring about Tu Siyi's injuries and asking if he would uphold their engagement. She emphasized the political ramifications if he reneged, warning of escalating tensions and endless disputes between Chuxing and Huanyue States.
Tu Siyi, bound by his word and the delicate political situation, implicitly agreed to the marriage. Meanwhile, Shen Daifu, Cui Xun, and Tu Siya focused on identifying the poison that afflicted Lin Zhen'er. Shen Daifu explained it was a hydrophilic poison that would quickly evaporate if exposed to air, thus requiring water for preservation. Their investigation led them to a suspicious individual who had recently rented a horse for a long journey to a forbidden area.
Cui Xun and Tu Siya cornered the man, who, in a desperate attempt to escape, threw the vial of poison into the air. Tu Siya quickly reacted, catching the poison in her mouth to save it from evaporating. Alarmed for her safety, Cui Xun immediately sucked the poison from her mouth, transferring it to his own.
To prevent the volatile poison from being exposed to air, they continued to exchange it between their mouths repeatedly on their journey back to Shen Daifu, securing it in a bottle upon arrival. Later, as they recovered, Tu Siya and Cui Xun awkwardly discussed their shared experience, with Cui Xun apologizing for accidentally biting her tongue during the frantic transfers. Back at his residence, Tu Siyi stayed by Lin Zhen'er's side until she finally woke.
She asked if she had died and noticed his injured hand. He gently explained everything, including his promise to marry Princess Murong Qianyue. Though heartbroken, Zhen'er understood his sacrifice and asked for some time alone to process the news. Mu Yan, Zhen'er's attendant, brought her some dessert. Zhen'er pondered if Mu Yan had ever seen her beloved marry another.
Reflecting on her situation, Zhen'er considered suicide as a way to "reset" and return to the time before she was poisoned, hoping to regain her life with Tu Siyi. However, the fear of pain made her hesitate, and she put the thought aside. Shen Daifu, after examining the collected poison, discovered it was "Dark Cloud Blotting out the Moon," a toxin exclusive to Huanyue State, with the Guizhong Flower as its only antidote.
He also uncovered evidence that Princess Murong Qianyue's maid had hired a mercenary to administer the poison. Deciding to intervene, Shen Daifu visited Princess Murong Qianyue in the palace, requesting a private audience. He implored her to release her obsessive love for Tu Siyi, warning that it would lead her down a dangerous path. The princess initially remained defiant, asserting Tu Siyi's willing participation in the competition.
However, Shen Daifu then presented his findings, revealing the poison's origin and her maid's involvement. He urged her to cancel the marriage, emphasizing the potential wrath of Tu Siyi if he discovered the truth and reminding her that both she and Tu Siyi were his friends, and he wished for harmony. Moved by Shen Daifu's words and the gravity of the situation, Princess Murong Qianyue later independently decided to annul the engagement.
Tu Siya brought the joyful news to Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er, announcing that Princess Murong Qianyue had canceled the marriage, citing respect for their profound love. The Huan Emperor had already returned to Huanyue State, while Princess Murong Qianyue chose to remain in Chuxing as an exchange ambassador for a few more months, likely for ongoing peace talks. Tu Siyi and Zhen'er were greatly relieved.
When Tu Siyi questioned Shen Daifu about the source of the poison, Shen Daifu, to protect Princess Qianyue, claimed the small sample size made it impossible to trace. Tu Siyi then vowed to protect Lin Zhen'er himself, never leaving her side. Lin Zhen'er, meanwhile, recognized that the path to seizing the throne now depended entirely on her own efforts.
Episode 18 Recap
To ensure Tu Siyi's path to becoming the Crown Prince, Lin Zhen'er initiated a new plan. Her first step was to dissolve the alliance with Second Prince. After attempting to contact him without success, she confronted him at his residence. Lin Zhen'er expressed her deep disappointment, accusing Second Prince (Tu Sicheng) of failing in his endeavors, including not marrying Murong Qianyue and allowing Tu Siyi to regain his position.
She sternly told him to cease all contact and stop sending her messages via arrows before leaving. Lin Zhen'er then discussed with Tu Siya the need to find new allies to strengthen their position. She proposed seeking the favor of Noble Consort Huang, who was a favorite of the Emperor. Tu Siya initially believed Noble Consort Huang to be kind and approachable. However, their visit to Noble Consort Huang quickly turned terrifying.
They witnessed the consort ruthlessly punish an imperial guard, Guard Kim, for a minor mission failure. Later, Noble Consort Huang, showing no mercy even to her own brother, Minister Huang, ordered him to be "cut into pieces" for a slight misstep and shockingly suggested Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siya carry out the punishment themselves. Horrified, both women fled the palace in a panic, abandoning any thought of an alliance.
Meanwhile, Tu Siyi, recognizing his weakness in martial arts, sought help from Cui Xun. He explained that while he had improved in civil and military skills and could outmaneuver Second Prince, he needed to become "more manly." Cui Xun tried to train him, but Tu Siyi found the strength training cumbersome and requested practical combat. In a sparring session, Cui Xun easily overpowered Tu Siyi, who, embarrassed, claimed he was holding back because they were friends.
Cui Xun then took him to a renowned Fight Club in the capital, explaining its two cardinal rules: never talk about Fight Club. Despite Tu Siyi's request not to be hit in the face, he was quickly defeated in his first match. Disheartened, Tu Siyi decided he would rather return home to his books. However, he persevered, dedicated himself to daily exercise and martial arts training, and regularly returned to the Fight Club.
Over time, he transformed from being easily defeated to consistently winning, developing a confident stride and an improved ability to handle state memorials. Tu Siyi's noticeable growth caught the attention of others. Second Prince, observing Tu Siyi's confident gait and enhanced efficiency in handling state affairs, approached him, subtly probing whether he had received guidance from talented individuals. Tu Siyi, with a knowing smile, credited his wife, Lin Zhen'er, for his progress.
This revelation sparked suspicion in Second Prince, who began to wonder if Lin Zhen'er was secretly working to undermine him. As Second Prince pondered this, a minister invited Tu Siyi to his mansion to discuss military strategies, pointedly asking if only Tu Siyi would attend. This public show of favor further embarrassed Second Prince, who, losing face, angrily departed. Separately, Cui Xun received a letter informing him of his grandfather, Master Cui's, illness.
He decided to return home to visit him, assuring Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er that his grandfather was not gravely ill. They offered him tonic for Master Cui, and Cui Xun departed, promising to return in a few days. Shortly after Cui Xun left, Tu Siya arrived, distraught that she couldn't find him. Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er informed her of his departure.
Tu Siya was upset that Cui Xun hadn't said goodbye to her directly but, despite her strong feelings, refused to chase after him, reminding herself not to seek him out. Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er noted her increasingly peculiar behavior. In the palace, Princess Royal still harbored resentment over the canceled engagement between Tu Siyi and Murong Qianyue. She firmly believed Lin Zhen'er was responsible for the disruption, lamenting Tu Siyi's difficult "relationship" path.
As a form of punishment for Lin Zhen'er (who had previously broken her Buddha beads), Princess Royal ordered Eunuch Ma to send Lin Zhen'er to the Library Pavilion to copy "Woman's Rules" one hundred times. Lin Zhen'er arrived late and, after being told the extent of her punishment, questioned why Princess Royal was targeting her. She realized it was likely due to the canceled engagement, though she maintained it wasn't her fault and that the matter should be over.
Reluctantly, she began copying. Hours later, Lin Zhen'er finally completed her task, late at night. She called for Eunuch Ma to verify her work, eager to return home before Tu Siyi worried. Eunuch Ma, however, advised her against leaving, recounting a chilling palace rumor. He told her about a concubine who, deemed unattractive by the Emperor, was executed. Her vengeful spirit now roamed the palace on dark, windy nights, preying on beautiful young maids.
The ghost, it was said, collected their eyes, ears, nose, and mouth to eventually be reborn with a beautiful face. Frightened by the thought of her own beauty putting her at risk, Lin Zhen'er hesitated. Back at the residence, Tu Siyi grew increasingly anxious about Lin Zhen'er's prolonged absence and decided to go to the palace to find her.
Tu Siya, still fixated on Cui Xun, continued to express her frustration about his abrupt departure and considered visiting Master Cui to complain about his grandson, even asking Tu Siyi for a horse, only to find he had already left. Meanwhile, Lin Zhen'er, determined to return home, navigated the dark palace corridors, singing to bolster her courage. She then spotted a mysterious woman in white with long black hair in the distance, believing it to be the ghost from Eunuch Ma's story, and was terrified.
Episode 19 Recap
Lin Zhen'er, startled and screaming, quickly summoned Tu Siyi to her side. Believing they were being chased by a ghost, they frantically fled until a palace maid intercepted them, revealing that the "ghost" was merely An Zhaoyi. An Zhaoyi, apologizing for frightening them, clarified that she had been counting her ducklings—Xiaohuang, Doudou, who loved eating beans, and Shuishui, who was good at swimming—which apparently led to the palace rumors of a female ghost counting numbers to collect facial features.
An Zhaoyi then invited Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siyi to her residence. They found her quarters to be the desolate Cold Palace, known for housing unfavored consorts. The cold and eerie atmosphere was unsettling. Inside, they witnessed another resident, Xiaolan, climbing out of a well, prompting An Zhaoyi to quickly help her, advising her not to search for food in the well.
Lin Zhen'er noticed that most of the Cold Palace residents seemed to have lost their sanity, with only An Zhaoyi and her maid, Biyu, remaining clear-headed. An Zhaoyi explained that these women, confined for extended periods with no visitors, eventually deteriorated mentally, though they remained kind-hearted.
Moved by her plight, Lin Zhen'er promised to visit frequently and even brought fabric for An Zhaoyi to make clothes and nests for her ducklings, emphasizing that An Zhaoyi's pets deserved the same care as those of other consorts. Later, while Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siyi were visiting, a eunuch from Royal Noble Consort Huang attempted to collect protection money from An Zhaoyi, even threatening to take her ducklings. Lin Zhen'er boldly intervened, challenging his authority.
The eunuch, arrogant due to his connection to Royal Noble Consort Huang, boasted that even Tu Siyi had to show him respect. Tu Siyi, however, firmly refuted this, chastising the eunuch and ordering him to leave the Cold Palace immediately. The eunuch quickly fled. Lin Zhen'er then assured An Zhaoyi that she and Tu Siyi would ensure no one would bully her or Xiaohuang again.
They discovered An Zhaoyi had transformed her palace into a small farm, growing melon and vegetable seedlings in barrels, mulberry trees for silkworms, and raising fish. She explained that the Cold Palace was neglected, with terrible food and often forgotten deliveries, forcing her to be self-sufficient. An Zhaoyi even offered them some cucumbers for making cold cucumbers with sauce.
She revealed that her love for gardening developed out of boredom, but she found happiness in it, noting that a favored consort would never be able to keep fish or chickens. Lin Zhen'er expressed her dismay at the tragic lives of women in the palace, who were forced to vie for the Emperor's favor simply to secure their position, attributing it to polygamy. Tu Siyi corrected her, stating that they were fighting for a foothold, not just favor.
When Lin Zhen'er asked if his own future palace would be similar if he became emperor, Tu Siyi reiterated his commitment to her alone, assuring her he only desired her. Convinced of his sincerity, Lin Zhen'er declared her intention to help An Zhaoyi regain the Emperor's heart and leave the miserable Cold Palace. Meanwhile, Tu Siya was feeling downcast due to Cui Xun's prolonged absence.
Upon his return, Cui Xun explained that his aging grandfather's greatest wish was to see him married soon. After discussions, his grandfather had arranged several blind dates for him at a teahouse the following day. Despite a tinge of jealousy, Tu Siya insisted on accompanying him to help evaluate the prospective wives, believing that only a woman could truly understand what made a suitable wife.
At the teahouse, Cui Xun's first date, a Miss Bai, consumed all the food and questioned his "stinginess," despite his good salary. The second woman immediately inquired about his properties and land, worrying about "dispute over his legacy" after his grandfather's passing, and then demanded control over his salary and a bride price on their first meeting, appalling Tu Siya.
The situation worsened when a man interrupted, claiming Cui Xun's family owed him money and threatening to "report crime to the authorities." He mistakenly assumed the woman was Cui Xun's wife and demanded repayment from her. The woman quickly denied being his wife, stating that "every debt has its debtor," and promptly fled. Tu Siya, disgusted, told Cui Xun that he would have suffered greatly if she hadn't intervened.
Cui Xun admitted he didn't want to get married, finding it better to simply practice martial arts and drink with friends. However, remembering his promise to his grandfather, he resolved to continue the blind dates, hoping for a better match. Exasperated, Tu Siya angrily told him to date as many girls as he wished and left. Later, Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siyi encountered a charming man named Yin Tianshan at a teahouse.
Lin Zhen'er was impressed by his ability to connect with a woman by offering her liquor after subtly revealing her awaited suitor had left with his wife and children, framing it as shared empathy. Yin Tianshan introduced himself, ignoring Tu Siyi's own introduction. Lin Zhen'er, having noticed his remarkable skill, invited Yin Tianshan to their residence, explaining An Zhaoyi's situation and promising him a generous reward if he could help her regain the Emperor's favor.
Yin Tianshan agreed, stating that the Princess's satisfaction was his primary goal, though he still expected payment. However, Tu Siyi, standing by, grew visibly jealous, annoyed by their seemingly intimate and engrossed discussion. He immediately suspected Yin Tianshan of having ulterior motives and trying to win over Lin Zhen'er, which he found unbearable.
Yin Tianshan analyzed that An Zhaoyi needed to "re-attract" the Emperor quickly, emphasizing that the Emperor had "seen numerous women" and An Zhaoyi was an "ordinary" one among them. Lin Zhen'er found his insight profound, but Tu Siyi dismissed it as mere repetition. Yin Tianshan then proposed an experiment, asking Lin Zhen'er to cooperate. He proceeded to send Lin Zhen'er an apple every hour throughout the day.
When he abruptly stopped sending apples at a certain point, Lin Zhen'er grew increasingly curious, questioning why the apples had ceased and how he had managed to time their delivery so precisely. Yin Tianshan explained that her current focus was not on the apples themselves but on "why" they stopped, demonstrating how he had successfully captured her attention. This, he asserted, was exactly the effect An Zhaoyi needed to achieve with the Emperor.
Tu Siyi initially scoffed, believing such a tactic wouldn't work on men, especially the Emperor, and challenged Yin Tianshan to try it on him. Despite his confidence, Tu Siyi also became increasingly curious when the hourly apples stopped coming. He eagerly asked about the "next fruit" and wondered aloud why he was so interested, proving the intensified version of the experiment to be effective. Convinced by the results, they decided to implement Yin Tianshan's strategy for An Zhaoyi in the palace.
Episode 20 Recap
Tu Siyi and Cui Xun both found themselves preoccupied, unable to eat or sleep. Tu Siyi approached Cui Xun, asking him to investigate Yin Tianshan, explaining that Cui Xun was adept at gathering information from all corners of the country. Before Tu Siyi could elaborate, Lin Zhen'er arrived, immediately mentioning Yin Tianshan. This annoyed Tu Siyi, who felt a pang of jealousy.
Lin Zhen'er teased him, asking if he was upset, but quickly urged him to hurry as they had an appointment with Yin Tianshan. She reminded Tu Siyi about their "7-day plan" and the need to rehearse with An Zhaoyi in the imperial palace, stressing that "preliminary mental preparation is of crucial importance." Lin Zhen'er, Tu Siyi, and Yin Tianshan met with An Zhaoyi, who expressed her despair at being in the Cold Palace and the fear of further degradation.
Yin Tianshan presented his plan: the Emperor, exhausted from his daily duties, would be vulnerable to a subtle approach. He proposed that An Zhaoyi should pretend to play the flute for six consecutive days along the Emperor's usual path back to the palace, while Tu Siyi, hidden from view, would be the one actually playing the melancholic tunes. The plan was to skip the seventh day, which would surely achieve success. An Zhaoyi agreed.
For six days, An Zhaoyi would appear in the Ming Lv Garden, feigning to play the flute. The Emperor, passing by, was repeatedly startled by the eerie music and the figure, connecting it with the palace's ghost stories. On the seventh day, when An Zhaoyi did not appear, Lin Zhen'er blamed Tu Siyi for playing such plaintive music that scared the Emperor away. Tu Siyi, however, insisted his music was perfect for the scene and questioned Yin Tianshan's method.
Despite the apparent failure, an imperial edict soon arrived, promoting An Zhaoyi to Noble Consort An and granting her Anyang Palace as her new residence. Tu Siyi questioned the eunuch delivering the decree, who revealed that the Emperor had been so frightened by the "unclean things" he saw in the Ming Lv Garden over the past six days that he fell ill.
A divination by the imperial master suggested a "joyful atmosphere" was needed, and Noble Consort An's birth date perfectly matched. An Zhaoyi was overjoyed, not just for herself, but for the other women in the Cold Palace whom she could now help leave the desolate place. Meanwhile, Cui Xun reported his findings to Tu Siyi regarding Yin Tianshan.
He confirmed Yin Tianshan was a newcomer to the capital, having arrived recently, and his belongings at the inn contained nothing suspicious apart from a wooden token carved with the character "Zhen." Tu Siyi recognized the token and, filled with suspicion, went to Lin Zhen'er's room under the pretense of cleaning. He rummaged through her belongings, much to her annoyance, and eventually found a matching wooden token inscribed with the character "Shan."
He combined the two tokens, which perfectly inlaid each other, confirming his fears that they were a pair. Tu Siyi's jealousy erupted, realizing they had lied about not knowing each other. Tu Siyi immediately summoned Lin Zhen'er and Yin Tianshan. He was initially irked by Lin Zhen'er using the pronoun "us" in front of Yin Tianshan, asserting that "this word only exists between you and me."
He then presented the "Zhen" token he found in Yin Tianshan's baggage and the "Shan" token from Lin Zhen'er's room, demanding an explanation for these "perfectly inlaid" tokens. Lin Zhen'er was outraged that Tu Siyi had searched her room without permission, emphasizing her right to privacy. Tu Siyi retorted, questioning if her "privacy is used for hiding these tokens of love."
Lin Zhen'er vehemently denied any romantic involvement, stating they had only met a few days ago and it was not what Tu Siyi imagined. She urged Yin Tianshan to explain. Yin Tianshan calmly stated that he and Lin Zhen'er were "bonded with marriage." He then clarified that this bond dated back to when they were both eight years old, playing house and calling each other "wife" and "husband."
He recounted how Lin Zhen'er had saved him after his parents died in the war, and how she continued to care for him. He explained that Lin Zhen'er had given him the "Zhen" token, and that it symbolized their childhood bond along with the matching "Shan" token she possessed. He further revealed that they had even raised a hamster named Xiao Mei, forming a family unit they called "Zhen, Shan, Mei" (Truth, Kindness, Beauty).
Yin Tianshan revealed that he had purposefully sought her out after learning she had become the Third Prince's consort (Wangfei), wanting to confirm her happiness. Lin Zhen'er assured him she was doing well. Tu Siyi, still seething with jealousy, reiterated that he had been taking good care of his wife and that Yin Tianshan's services were no longer needed, effectively dismissing him. Lin Zhen'er confronted Tu Siyi for "yelling him away" after he had explained everything.
Tu Siyi argued that if Yin Tianshan were truly a good person, he would have revealed their childhood connection at the very beginning, implying he only confessed when confronted. He declared that he was trying to protect Lin Zhen'er. Still angry with Tu Siyi, Lin Zhen'er went shopping. Tu Siyi secretly followed her, witnessing her lavish spending.
He watched as she bought an expensive "first class butterfly-attracting powder" for "3 guan" and an even pricier item from the western countries for "4 taels," justifying it by saying Tu Siyi had enough fortune for "more than 3 lifetimes." She proclaimed that shopping was "the best way for women to dispel sorrow and anxiety." Meanwhile, Tu Siyi was in the Library Box, consulting Master Zhi about a hypothetical legal case involving a betrayed fisherman, revealing his ongoing preoccupation.
The next day, Lin Zhen'er visited the newly appointed Noble Consort An, who was still sighing, a "habitual" action from her time in the Cold Palace. Noble Consort An offered her gifts sent from other palaces, but Lin Zhen'er, still frustrated, only wanted to "do the unpacking!" As Lin Zhen'er excitedly unwrapped a gift box, a hidden weapon suddenly shot out, striking her. She realized it was poisoned just before losing consciousness. Upon receiving news of the Third Prince's consort's accidental injury in Anyang Palace, Tu Siyi rushed to her side, finding her unconscious in bed.
Episode 21 Recap
Tu Siyi rushed to Lin Zhenzheng's side, distraught and calling her name, demanding to know what had happened and why no imperial doctor had been summoned. However, he soon discovered that most of her injuries were fake, adorned with poor-quality makeup, with only one true wound. Tu Siyi, angered by her prank after his frantic worry, prepared to leave.
Noble Consort An and the Minister quickly intervened, reminding Tu Siyi that Lin Zhenzheng had genuinely suffered an assassination attempt meant for Noble Consort An, and only her quick reflexes and luck had saved her. Lin Zhenzheng, meanwhile, defiantly declared that she could solve the case herself if Tu Siyi left. The Minister then skillfully persuaded Tu Siyi to stay, praising his recent studies and suggesting his involvement would be invaluable to the investigation.
Tu Siyi, his anger somewhat quelled by concern and a convenient excuse, agreed to stay. As they began their investigation, they determined that the assassin had used white phosphorus hidden in the gift box. When the box was opened, the white phosphorus reacted with the air and spontaneously ignited, destroying the paper evidence. The unique paper itself, a fine and smooth Shu Paper, was identified as an imperial tribute, with all its distributions meticulously recorded by the Shang Gong Bureau.
They decided to head there for clues. At the Shang Gong Bureau, the Minister initially proposed digging a tunnel to bypass the strict guards and reach the inventory records, estimating it would take a month. Lin Zhenzheng, exasperated, dismissed his plan and declared she would rely on herself. Tu Siyi, though outwardly dismissive, secretly followed her, claiming he was merely exercising.
They encountered a strict palace maid guarding the warehouse who refused Lin Zhenzheng entry, even upon learning she was the Third Princess. Lin Zhenzheng then noticed the maid was a fervent admirer of Tu Siyi, and, swallowing her pride, asked Tu Siyi to distract the maid with his charm. Despite his protests of never "selling himself," Tu Siyi's actions spoke louder than words. Tu Siyi, after some dramatic reluctance, agreed to distract the palace maid.
He began reading a romantic novel, "Solely favored by the Overbearing Leng Highness," about a prince, using himself as the "prototype," captivating the maid for nearly half an hour. During this time, Lin Zhenzheng slipped into the warehouse and found the records. She discovered that Eunuch Zhu, Noble Consort Huang's attendant, had collected half a piece of Shu Paper, unlike others who took full stacks, making him highly suspicious.
Despite finding a lead, Lin Zhenzheng was disappointed, realizing this evidence only implicated Noble Consort Huang, an ally of the Second Prince, and not the Second Prince himself directly. With the physical evidence destroyed, she knew Eunuch Zhu could simply deny everything. Tu Siyi suggested they needed a way to expose his lies. Lin Zhenzheng then conceived the idea of a lie detector.
Lin Zhenzheng designed a lie detector chair, with Shen Daifu providing technical guidance on human physiological responses to emotional fluctuations. She confidently stated the device would expose the killer at the upcoming midwinter family dinner. To test it, they chose Tu Siyi. When asked if he ever lied, he replied "I never tell lies," and the bells on the device remained silent. However, when Lin Zhenzheng asked him if he still liked her, the bells rang frantically, despite his denial.
Shen Daifu quickly analyzed the results, concluding that the bells rang not because of a lie, but because of Tu Siyi's intense emotional reaction to Lin Zhenzheng's question. He declared the instrument incapable of accurately detecting lies. However, Lin Zhenzheng realized they could exploit this very characteristic to trick the real culprit.
At the midwinter banquet, Lin Zhenzheng presented the "lie detector" to the Emperor as a gift from the West, claiming it could detect a liar's heartbeat and make bells ring, thus exposing any falsehoods. The Emperor, eager to seek justice for Noble Consort An, immediately wanted to use it to identify her assailant. The Second Prince and Noble Consort Huang expressed skepticism, prompting Lin Zhenzheng to invite anyone to test it. Noble Consort Huang sent Eunuch Zhu forward.
Unbeknownst to the court, Lin Zhenzheng, Tu Siyi, and Shen Daifu had rigged the device with a hidden thread, allowing Shen Daifu to manually control the bells. When Eunuch Zhu denied ever liking a palace maid, the bells rang, and he confessed. When he denied badmouthing Noble Consort Huang, the bells rang again, and he admitted to doing it occasionally, even daily.
Convinced by this "proof," the Emperor ordered everyone in the palace to be tested by the lie detector the following day to find the culprit behind Noble Consort An's attack. Late that night, as expected, someone snuck into the Main Hall to destroy the lie detector. Lin Zhenzheng and the Emperor had anticipated this and were waiting in ambush. They caught Eunuch Zhu in the act, who then implicated Noble Consort Huang.
With both a confession and the Shang Gong Bureau's record of Shu Paper collection, Noble Consort Huang was cornered. Just as she was about to reveal who had incited her, the Second Prince subtly intervened. He recited a poetic couplet and then, in a deceitful maneuver, secretly used a trick to drive Noble Consort Huang into madness, preventing her from exposing him.
With Noble Consort Huang now insane and babbling incoherently, the Emperor ordered her imprisonment and a medical examination, effectively halting the investigation into her instigator for the time being. Meanwhile, Tu Siya, despite claiming she wouldn't accompany Cui Xun to his blind date, ended up going.
She cited boredom, as Tu Siyi and Lin Zhenzheng were too busy to play with her, and also claimed she was there to ensure Cui Xun found a "good partner" and wasn't "eaten alive" by his "poor-looking" dates. This time, however, Cui Xun's date, Miss Li, was attractive and shared his interest in martial arts. Tu Siya, observing Cui Xun act shy and gentle with Miss Li—a stark contrast to his usual rough demeanor with her—grew visibly jealous.
She shamelessly interrupted the date, whisking Cui Xun away, her possessiveness evident, though she vehemently denied any romantic feelings for him. Upon returning to the mansion, Cui Xun and Tu Siya discovered the now-exposed lie detector. Tu Siya insisted Cui Xun test it. When she asked if he liked Miss Li, he denied it, and the bells rang.
When she asked if he had visited Ying Yan Pavilion, he denied it, and the bells remained silent, seemingly confirming his truthfulness, though he sheepishly admitted he'd been there as a child with his grandfather. Finally, Tu Siya asked Cui Xun if he liked "her", and the bells loudly rang.
Just as the tension built, Shen Daifu walked in and casually informed them that the lie detector was a fake, not a real scientific instrument, abruptly deflating the moment and leaving Tu Siya frustrated with Shen Daifu's "useless" invention.
Episode 22 Recap
The annual worship ceremony at the Great Hall commenced with grand solemnity. As Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er observed the elaborate preparations, Tu Siyi explained that every year, the Emperor, along with civil and military officials, princes, princesses, and imperial concubines, would gather to worship the heavens for royal protection. He added that following the recent ghost-haunting incident, the Emperor had grown even more particular about such events.
Due to a crisis of trust, State Preceptor Sun was sidelined, and an external master was invited to preside over this year's ceremony. Lin Zhen'er remarked on how they might have "overdone it" with the ghost incident, causing the Emperor's heightened vigilance. The Emperor himself presided over the welcoming of spirits, praying for the prosperity of the Chuxing State, peace for its people, and timely rain. During the ceremony, a masked man suddenly ascended the altar, wielding a dagger menacingly.
He advanced towards the assembled crowd below the steps, and without warning, lunged at the Emperor. Lin Zhen'er swiftly intervened to protect the Emperor, but he was still grazed by the blade. Imperial officials immediately called for a doctor and expressed their outrage at the security breach. Recognizing Lin Zhen'er's valiant effort in protecting him, the Emperor entrusted Tu Siyi with the thorough investigation of the incident.
In her struggle with the masked assailant, Lin Zhen'er managed to wound him, though she herself was also struck. The Emperor declared that once the assassination plot was fully uncovered, he would name the Crown Prince. Lin Zhen'er was pleased, knowing her bravery and Tu Siyi's new responsibility might bring them closer to the throne.
Later, while out to buy nourishing ingredients like peanut dolichos chicken feet soup with red dates and wolfberries for Tu Siyi, who she believed was working diligently on the case, Lin Zhen'er pondered the favorable turn of events. She saw the assassination as an opportunity that had brought her credit and given Tu Siyi an important mission, potentially paving the way for him to become the Crown Prince. On her way home, the mystic Zhuge again intercepted her.
Lin Zhen'er tried to dismiss him as a swindler, claiming no need for superstition given her recent good fortune. However, Zhuge insisted he had crucial matters to discuss and led her to a private location. He confronted her, asking if she was involved in the Emperor's assassination. Lin Zhen'er vehemently denied any knowledge, even threatening him with arrest. Zhuge then revealed his true identity as the former counselor to General Shengyuan, her late father.
He reminded her of her childhood, when she used to call him "uncle Zhuge," and observed that her amnesia appeared genuine. He recounted that General Shengyuan was a revered, victorious general whose military power the Emperor feared. Despite his advanced age and serious illness, the Emperor had forcefully ordered him to the battlefield at the Beheading Valley, leading to his death. To appease the bereaved Lin family, the Emperor then betrothed Lin Zhen'er to Tu Siyi.
Zhuge disclosed that before her marriage, Lin Zhen'er was consumed by hatred and had written a letter swearing to kill the Emperor and his sons, a letter he had found. He had secretly watched her and Tu Siyi, only to find her suddenly amnesiac, which he had initially believed was a fortunate escape from her vengeful plans. Now, with the recent assassination, he suspected it might be a plot she had orchestrated before losing her memory.
Zhuge warned her that if her involvement was discovered, she would be in grave danger. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Lin Zhen'er worried that the assassin might be connected to the Lin family military and that Tu Siyi's investigation could expose her past. She resolved to uncover the truth before Tu Siyi did. Before Lin Zhen'er could delve deeper into these unsettling revelations, Yin Tianshan intercepted her on her way back to the palace and led her away.
She quickly noticed his injuries, realizing that he was the masked assailant who had attacked the Emperor. Yin Tianshan, frustrated by her interference, demanded to know if she was truly muddled or simply feigning ignorance, reminding her of the Lin family's plight under the Emperor. Lin Zhen'er, genuinely confused, reiterated her amnesia and her recent discovery of the Lin family's history and their past plans to assassinate the Emperor and Tu Siyi.
Yin Tianshan, who had worshipped General Shengyuan as his adoptive father, revealed that he had sworn revenge after the general's death. He accused Lin Zhen'er of betraying the Lin family, as she had been meant to collaborate with him, but her sudden amnesia had thwarted their plans. Sensing her changed feelings, Yin Tianshan deduced that she no longer harbored hatred for Tu Siyi. When he proposed they continue their assassination plot together, Lin Zhen'er refused.
Although he carried a knife, given to him by his adoptive father to eliminate traitors, he couldn't bring himself to strike her, confessing that a remnant of love held him back. He then bid her to leave, stating he never wanted to see her again. Lin Zhen'er, worried about his safety, offered to help him escape the heavily guarded Capital City, urging him not to return.
Yin Tianshan, however, was bitter, questioning if his life held any value and directly asking if she loved Tu Siyi, to which she simply replied, "Yes." Accepting her help to leave the city, he declared that from that moment on, they would have no further ties. Returning home, Lin Zhen'er found Tu Siyi studying a drawing on his desk. She casually inquired about his day and his progress on the assassination case, to which he replied he was still clueless.
Tu Siyi then showed her the drawing, asking if she recognized the pattern, which he had identified as belonging to the Lin family military from his research in the library. Lin Zhen'er feigned ignorance, claiming no recollection of it, and swiftly excused herself to rest, leaving Tu Siyi deeply suspicious of her evasive behavior. Later, Lin Zhen'er secretly prepared clothing and dried food, claiming to her servant that the supplies were for the Ci You Asylum's children and lonely elders.
The servant, noting the adult male clothes, joked about her possibly aiding a criminal, but Lin Zhen'er insisted on her anonymous charity. Tu Siyi, however, secretly observed her clandestine preparations and wondered if she truly was involved in the assassination. Meanwhile, the Second Prince's spies reported that Tu Siyi had been researching the Lin family's former subordinates in the library, and that both he and Lin Zhen'er had been seen sneaking off to the suburbs.
The Second Prince, realizing that an investigation into the Lin family could implicate Lin Zhen'er and severely damage Tu Siyi's standing, saw this as a golden opportunity. Believing Lin Zhen'er's involvement would boost his own chances of becoming Crown Prince, he ordered his men to track them. Lin Zhen'er met Yin Tianshan in a secluded hut to give him the provisions she had prepared.
He accepted the supplies but argued about his escape, noting the tight security across the city due to the assassination. Yin Tianshan then controversially declared, "It was us! We did it together," in reference to the assassination, hinting at Lin Zhen'er's past involvement. This entire conversation was overheard by Tu Siyi, who had secretly followed Lin Zhen'er. Enraged, Tu Siyi burst into the hut. Yin Tianshan, seeing Tu Siyi as a threat, drew his weapon.
However, Lin Zhen'er bravely stepped between them, protecting Tu Siyi. Infuriated, Yin Tianshan fled, and despite Tu Siyi's attempts to pursue, Lin Zhen'er's obstruction allowed Yin Tianshan to escape. Tu Siyi, reeling from Yin Tianshan's escape and his wife's actions, angrily confronted Lin Zhen'er, demanding an explanation for Yin Tianshan's implication that they were both involved in the assassination and the escape plan.
Lin Zhen'er insisted that Yin Tianshan was the sole assassin and that her aid stemmed only from their past friendship, unwilling to see him die. Tu Siyi questioned why Yin Tianshan had used the word "us," but before Lin Zhen'er could fully explain, a letter inadvertently fell from her grasp. Tu Siyi picked it up, reading its chilling contents: "At all costs, kill the Emperor and his son."
He accused her of authoring it, asking what more she had to explain, and stating he could no longer trust her. Lin Zhen'er desperately pleaded that she had no knowledge of it, claiming it was written before her memory loss. At that critical moment, the sound of approaching horse hooves echoed outside. Recognizing the sound, Lin Zhen'er exclaimed it must be Tu Sicheng, the Second Prince. The hut was swiftly surrounded, trapping Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siyi inside.
Episode 23 Recap
As Second Prince Tu Sicheng and his men burst into the room, Third Prince Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng made a swift escape through a window. Tu Sicheng's men gave chase, but Tu Sicheng himself, searching the room, only found an old suicide note from Lin Zhen'er. Meanwhile, Tu Siyi struggled to process his feelings for Lin Zhengzheng. He had fallen in love with her, but the evidence suggested their entire relationship might be a fabrication.
Despite his turmoil, he shielded Lin Zhengzheng, who tried to reassure him, saying, "As all the existing proofs are against me, I don't know how to explain it to you. But Tu Siyi, you have to trust me for one thing, that is I love you." Tu Siyi comforted her, telling her not to be afraid. Soon, Tu Sicheng and his forces surrounded them. Tu Sicheng mockingly greeted them, questioning why they were "strolling in the wilderness."
He accused Tu Siyi of being distracted by his affections for Lin Zhen'er, which he claimed was jeopardizing the investigation into the Emperor's assassination. Tu Sicheng produced Lin Zhen'er's old suicide note, using it to declare her the mastermind behind the assassination and ordered her immediate imprisonment in the imperial prison.
Tu Siyi tried to defend her, asserting that the letter was written before her amnesia, but Tu Sicheng then revealed another letter, an alleged alliance pact between Lin Zhen'er and himself, aimed at "destroying" Tu Siyi. He taunted Tu Siyi, saying, "She is not worth your efforts," and scoffed at Tu Siyi's unwavering loyalty.
When Tu Siyi demanded to know what he wanted, Tu Sicheng laid out his terms: if Tu Siyi publicly withdrew from the Crown Prince succession during tomorrow's imperial court, Lin Zhen'er would be set free. He warned Tu Siyi not to be fooled, insisting that Lin Zhen'er intended to kill both him and the Emperor, and that their bond was a mere trap.
Alone, Tu Siyi wrestled with his doubts, wondering why it was so painful to consider leaving her, despite the mounting evidence. In the imperial prison, Lin Zhengzheng felt despair, doubting whether Tu Siyi would come for her, especially since even she was uncertain of the complete truth. Just as she was about to give up, Tu Siyi appeared. He reassured her, "I trust you. Let's find a way out first." Their escape, however, was not smooth.
As they were about to be discovered, Yin Tianshan suddenly intervened. Lin Zhengzheng cried out his name as he bravely held back the guards, telling them, "Go, leave it to me." Yin Tianshan sacrificed himself, sustaining severe injuries while buying them precious time to flee. Though Lin Zhengzheng and Tu Siyi escaped, Yin Tianshan's sacrifice weighed heavily on Lin Zhengzheng. She realized that her growing closeness with Tu Siyi seemed to move them further from completing her mission.
Perplexed and frustrated, she wondered if fate decreed they couldn't be together. When Tu Siyi, still confused, offered to abandon the throne and run away with her, even forgiving her if she had truly intended to harm him in the past, she knew she couldn't. She confessed to him, "I'm not Lin Zhen'er, my true name is Lin Zhengzheng. And you are not the Third Prince. You are mine. We don't belong to this world.
You come from another world, and you are trapped here, lost your memory. Only when you get the throne can we leave this place. And I come here to save you." She urged him to call her "Zhengzheng" and passionately reaffirmed her love for him. Before Tu Siyi could fully process this revelation, Tu Sicheng's men arrived again.
Declaring, "Remember that Lin Zhengzheng will always love Tu Siyi," Lin Zhengzheng, with no regard for her own safety, charged at Tu Sicheng, intending to take him down with her. The two tumbled off a cliff, and Lin Zhengzheng's life ended once more within the game. Tu Siyi, witnessing her fall, cried out her name in agony. In a "reset" moment, Lin Zhengzheng found herself back on the cliff with Tu Siyi, who was still reeling from the shock.
The feeling of death was unsettlingly real, and she realized she had only one life left. Knowing Tu Sicheng's men would soon arrive to kill them, she quickly instructed Tu Siyi, "You just tell him that Yin Tianshan broke into the jail and you came here to arrest me." She also placed a sword in his hand.
When Tu Sicheng arrived, Tu Siyi followed her lead, claiming he had caught her after Yin Tianshan's jailbreak to prevent it from affecting their "plan." Tu Sicheng, though suspicious, seemed to accept it for the time being, reminding Tu Siyi to stick to their agreed plan for the imperial court. Later, in the imperial court, Tu Sicheng preempted Tu Siyi's report, claiming Tu Siyi was deliberately delaying the assassination investigation to protect Lin Zhen'er.
He produced the letter he claimed to have intercepted from Tu Siyi, asserting it proved Tu Siyi's concealed intentions and that Lin Zhen'er was the true mastermind. Tu Sicheng detailed the letter's contents, claiming Lin Zhen'er sought revenge for General Shengyuan and used former Lin family military members to assassinate the Emperor. He further claimed that Lin Zhen'er was caught fleeing last night, and Yin Tianshan was killed while trying to protect her.
The enraged Emperor demanded an explanation from Tu Siyi. Tu Siyi confidently declared the letter a forgery by Tu Sicheng. To prove Lin Zhen'er's innocence, he called upon the Secretary of Writing, who examined the letter and confirmed it was written by a left-handed person. Lin Zhen'er then stated she always wrote with her right hand.
Tu Sicheng attempted to argue that she might have deliberately written it with her left hand, but the Secretary of Writing expertly explained that the unique strokes and pressure points of the writing unequivocally indicated a natural left-handed writer, making it impossible for a right-handed person to imitate. At that moment, Lord Zha reported that the wounds and footprints on the deceased assassin matched those of the Lin family military's customized footwear, implicating a connection to Lin Zhen'er.
She admitted knowing the assassin as a former acquaintance but denied any conspiracy. Tu Sicheng used this connection to argue that even if Lin Zhen'er wasn't the mastermind, she was still deeply involved, especially since the assassin sacrificed his life to save her. Tu Siyi countered, asking why Lin Zhen'er would save the Emperor if she truly wished him dead.
He further accused Tu Sicheng of fabricating evidence on the day of the Crown Prince's announcement to frame Lin Zhen'er and slander him. The Emperor, weary of the arguments, made his final judgment. He acknowledged that while the assassin was from the Lin family military, and Lin Zhen'er couldn't be entirely absolved, she was not the primary instigator. He declared, "Capital crime can be forgiven but punishment is inevitable.
She must be ordered 100 strikes with a rod and downgraded to a maid." Tu Siyi pleaded for her life, warning that such a punishment would kill her, but Tu Sicheng applauded the decision. The Emperor then announced that the appointment of the Crown Prince would be suspended indefinitely.
Episode 24 Recap
Lin Zhen'er was brought before the Emperor, accused of colluding with rebellious gangs, and sentenced to one hundred flogs. As the execution was about to begin, Tu Siyi stepped forward, declaring his willingness to be punished for her. The Emperor, infuriated by his persistence, ordered Tu Siyi to receive two hundred flogs instead. Despite Lin Zhen'er’s desperate pleas to take the punishment herself, the flogs continued to fall heavily on Tu Siyi.
Seeing their suffering, Noble Consort An intervened, revealing her pregnancy and asking the Emperor to spare them for the sake of her unborn child's good fortune. The Emperor, overjoyed by the news, granted her request, stopping the flogging of Third Prince and ordering Lin Zhen'er to be demoted and sent to the Shanggong Bureau for allocation. Tu Siyi, severely injured, collapsed unconscious, calling out Lin Zhen'er’s name.
Upon waking, Tu Siyi, still in immense pain and spitting blood, insisted on finding Lin Zhen'er. His attendant warned him that his internal organs were damaged and it would take at least half a month to recover fully. Meanwhile, Lin Zhen'er, now a palace maid, was assigned to the Sizhi House. On her first day, the supervisor slapped her for speaking without permission, reminding her to remember the palace rules and that her conduct now represented Third Prince.
Another maid, Qing Feng, showed her kindness, offering to share her room and comforting her about the slap. Lin Zhen'er, feigning indifference about Tu Siyi to Qing Feng, quickly found herself ostracized and burdened with the heaviest chores by other maids, including Bing Yan and Zi Lan. They openly gossiped about her demotion, speculating about her "loose morals" and expressing sympathy for the "ill" Third Prince. Qing Feng often defended Lin Zhen'er from their taunts.
One day, a maid assigned Lin Zhen'er to wash Princess Royal's clothes. Later, Qing Feng was deliberately sent away, and Lin Zhen'er was locked inside a storeroom. Overwhelmed by fear and sadness, she cried out to Tu Siyi, regretting her inability to lead him out of the game and lamenting her own powerless state. The next morning, Qing Feng, with Tu Siya, came to rescue her.
Tu Siya was furious that Lin Zhen'er had been locked in, but Lin Zhen'er urged her not to make a fuss as she was still a disgraced person. Tu Siya then conveyed a message from Tu Siyi: he had mostly recovered and wished to meet Lin Zhen'er that night at nine o'clock, under the haunted tree in Minglv Garden.
However, Lin Zhen'er, suffering from a cold from her ordeal, told Tu Siya to inform Tu Siyi that she was too busy with her duties at the Laundry Bureau to attend. That night, Tu Siyi waited alone at the designated tree in Minglv Garden, wondering why Lin Zhen'er hadn't come.
The next day, a maid informed Lin Zhen'er that Princess Royal's chain, a gift from the Emperor, was missing from the clothes she had washed and demanded she retrieve it from the washing pool. Amidst a pouring rain, Lin Zhen'er frantically searched the large pool. Suddenly, Tu Siyi appeared, telling her he had waited for her all night. Lin Zhen'er tried to send him away, distressed by her humble status, but Tu Siyi urged her to listen.
He then revealed that he had regained all his memories. Overjoyed and relieved, Lin Zhen'er broke down in tears, embracing him tightly and expressing her happiness that she no longer had to fight alone. Tu Siyi apologized for his delay and promised to protect her from now on, telling her to leave everything to him, a cryptic message that left Lin Zhen'er puzzled. Soon after, Qing Feng announced Third Prince’s arrival at the Laundry Bureau.
Lin Zhen'er, assuming he was there for her, was surprised when Tu Siyi gathered all the maids. He addressed them, thanking them for their hard work in upholding the royal image. He announced that he had secured new charcoal from Shanggong Bureau, allowing them to wash clothes in hot water, and even provided them with Ningzhi Cream, personally applying it to some maids' chapped hands.
The maids were ecstatic, praising his warm heart, while Lin Zhen'er watched, feeling annoyed and jealous that he had seemingly ignored her, calling him a "love crook." After Tu Siyi left, the maids, eager for any information about him, surrounded Lin Zhen'er. Realizing this was Tu Siyi's ingenious plan, Lin Zhen'er decided to take advantage. She announced that she would "auction" off information about Third Prince, starting with his favorite food, with bids in the form of washing her clothes.
The maids enthusiastically participated, with bids quickly escalating. One maid even offered to wash clothes for three days straight. Lin Zhen'er joyfully declared that her entire year's worth of laundry had been taken care of, thanks to Tu Siyi's clever scheme.
Episode 25 Recap
Lin Zhen'er, finally outside the palace walls after a long confinement, was sent out by Ji Sizhi for procurement. She was surprised when Tu Siyi suddenly appeared, and he revealed that he had orchestrated her release from the palace as the Third Prince. Lin Zhen'er acknowledged that thanks to his subtle help, no one was bothering her anymore, and her tasks were even being taken care of by others.
However, she complained about having to buy so many things, feeling it was a waste of their time together. Tu Siyi explained that the items, including silk, cloth, needle, thread, crystal osmanthus cake, pumpkin cake, and marinated duck feet, were actually her favorite foods and things she missed from her real life, some of which were hard to find in ancient times. Lin Zhen'er was touched by his thoughtfulness.
Tu Siyi then proposed they have a proper date, suggesting the classic trio: having dinner, going shopping, and watching a film, which in this world meant a shadow play. During their shopping, Lin Zhen'er chose a "flamboyant" red flower and insisted Tu Siyi wear it. They enjoyed authentic ancient snacks, with Lin Zhen'er lamenting that she wouldn't taste them again after leaving the game world. Tu Siyi promised to learn to cook them for her himself.
As they watched the shadow play, Lin Zhen'er expressed her joy at being able to date openly, unlike in her previous life where they had to be secretive. Tu Siyi apologized for her past hardships and vowed to become strong enough to protect her. He then informed her that he would be busy preparing for the upcoming hunting event, as he needed to find an opportunity to defeat Tu Sicheng to become the heir.
He told her to take good care of herself and promised a surprise when she returned to the palace. Meanwhile, Princess Qianyue, enraged that Lin Zhen'er still clung to the Third Prince despite her demotion to a maid, had her servant acquire half a bottle of copperas oil from the black market, knowing it would disfigure anyone it touched. Just then, Shen Daifu arrived to bid farewell, as Princess Qianyue was preparing to return to Huanyue State.
He offered her a precious jade pendant for peace and good health, but Qianyue refused it. She bitterly stated that her failure to marry in Chuxing State was a "failure" in her father's eyes, and she did not want to leave any lingering emotional ties in a place where she had not found a suitor.
She blamed Lin Zhen'er for her plight and declared that since Lin Zhen'er and Tu Siyi were Shen Daifu's friends, she could not consider him a friend either. Upon returning to the palace, Lin Zhen'er learned from Ji Sizhi that she had been transferred to the Knitting House and promoted from a third-rank to a first-rank maid, meaning she would no longer do laundry. She quickly realized this was the surprise Tu Siyi had mentioned.
Overjoyed, she was skipping along when she accidentally bumped into Princess Qianyue's maid, causing Qianyue's clothes to fall and get soiled. Qianyue demanded Lin Zhen'er wash the clothes. Despite Lin Zhen'er stating she was no longer a laundry maid, Qianyue insisted. Qianyue then threatened Lin Zhen'er, promising to speak favorably of Tu Siyi to the Emperor during the upcoming hunt if Lin Zhen'er would distance herself from him, suggesting it would aid his bid for the heir position.
Princess Qianyue then maliciously offered Lin Zhen'er the copperas oil, disguised as face cream, ostensibly to protect her hands from washing clothes. However, Tu Siyi, having been forewarned by Shen Daifu about Qianyue's intentions, arrived just in time. He denounced Qianyue as a "vicious woman" and declared she would not harm Lin Zhen'er. In his attempt to knock the bottle away, the copperas oil unfortunately splashed onto Qianyue's own face.
Enraged and feeling like a "joke" because Lin Zhen'er still held the most important place in Tu Siyi's heart, Qianyue vowed to spare no effort in tearing them apart. She meticulously dressed herself up and presented herself to the Emperor, stating she had come to "requite his favor." The very next day, Qianyue was promoted to Noble Consort Yue and given the Fuyue Palace as her residence. She immediately had Lin Zhen'er transferred to Fuyue Palace to serve her.
Noble Consort Yue wasted no time in tormenting Lin Zhen'er, constantly finding fault and giving her tedious tasks, such as making her pick up a spilled string of beads and piece together a deliberately torn "Painting featuring bamboo villages and moon" by the end of the night. After completing the painting, Lin Zhen'er secretly met Tu Siyi in a small forest. Tu Siyi was concerned about her treatment in Fuyue Palace, but Lin Zhen'er assured him she was fine.
He reiterated his plan to soon defeat Tu Sicheng so they could leave the game world together. Unbeknownst to them, Noble Consort Yue's maid overheard their conversation about defeating Tu Sicheng and leaving the palace. Princess Ya, hoping to help Lin Zhen'er, approached the Emperor to request that Lin Zhen'er become her personal maid, praising her intelligence. The Emperor, however, refused, expressing his frustration with Princess Ya's rebellious and unruly nature, wishing she would learn proper royal etiquette.
After Princess Ya left, Noble Consort Yue seized the opportunity to suggest that marrying Princess Ya to Prince Li Changxiu of Yuanri State would help her become more gentle and greatly assist in signing a new peace treaty between Chuxing State and Yuanri State. Despite the Emperor's concern that Princess Ya might not agree, Noble Consort Yue emphasized the Emperor's supreme authority, convincing him to issue a decree.
The next day, Princess Ya, while playfully engaging in martial arts with Cui Xun and teaching him acupoint techniques, received the imperial edict announcing her immediate marriage to Li Changxiu and her departure for Yuanri State. Cui Xun's reaction, focusing on the suitability of the match and promising to visit, deeply disappointed Princess Ya. Feeling misunderstood and hurt by his lack of a strong emotional response, she silently got into the wedding sedan.
Later, Tu Siyi confronted Cui Xun, urging him to be courageous in love, reminding him that he was no worse than Li Changxiu and that Princess Ya cared for him. Recalling their shared moments and his true feelings for her, Cui Xun finally understood and rushed off to find Princess Ya. Meanwhile, Noble Consort Yue's maid reported Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er's plan to leave the palace after defeating Tu Sicheng.
Noble Consort Yue decided to "give her a hand" in leaving by eliminating her during the upcoming royal hunt, believing it would be easier to conceal than an incident within the palace walls. Seeking to combine her revenge with a strategic advantage, Noble Consort Yue met with the Second Prince late that night.
She proposed an alliance: she would use her influence to help him become Crown Prince in front of the Emperor if he, in turn, ensured Lin Zhen'er's discreet demise during the hunting event. The Second Prince readily agreed, seeing it as a mutually beneficial arrangement. They officially formed their "Jian Yue Si Qian Da You Suo Cheng Alliance."
Episode 26 Recap
Cui Xun, defying guards who tried to stop him, intercepted Princess Tu Siya's wedding procession at the city gate. Tu Siya, overjoyed and tearful, declared him her friend and threatened anyone who dared to block him. She confessed to Cui Xun that she had been counting trees, flags, and houses from the palace to the city gate, desperately hoping he would appear to stop her elopement.
She shared her fear that if he hadn't come, "Tu Siya would cease to exist," as he was the one who made her brave enough to truly be herself. Cui Xun, in turn, admitted his initial hesitation, believing a princess like her deserved a prince. However, he quickly realized that her identity didn't matter, pledging to be her prince, her defeated opponent, or a devoted husband, as long as they could be together.
He affectionately emphasized his commitment, stating he no longer wanted her to be an outsider and wouldn't take back the precious Xun he had given her. After both declared their mutual affection, Cui Xun, despite the guards' objections, took Tu Siya away with him, effectively eloping. Meanwhile, Tu Siyi diligently practiced archery for the upcoming hunt, aiming to defeat Tu Sicheng and better protect Lin Zhen'er, despite his reluctance to harm animals.
During one practice session, Tu Sicheng provocatively claimed a rabbit Tu Siyi had shot. When Tu Siyi asserted it was his, Tu Sicheng dismissed him, claiming their arrows were indistinguishable in color, making it hard to tell who shot it. Tu Sicheng also mocked Tu Siyi's consistent losses in past competitions. The Emperor, feeling refreshed at the hunting grounds, engaged in conversation with Noble Consort Yue.
She lavishly praised Tu Sicheng's exceptional riding and hunting prowess, recalling how he single-handedly hunted a fierce bear the previous year. The Emperor, pleased, encouraged Tu Siyi to also uphold the royal spirit in the upcoming hunt, eagerly anticipating a magnificent competition between his two sons.
Later, Noble Consort Yue dispatched Lin Zhen'er to fetch water from the river, a task Lin Zhen'er viewed as another of Noble Consort Yue's "mental attacks" stemming from Noble Consort Yue's suspicions about Zhen'er's lingering feelings for Tu Siyi. Tu Siyi, however, secretly followed Lin Zhen'er. They seized the rare chance for a casual outing, enjoying a horseback ride in the serene countryside.
Their peaceful moment was abruptly shattered by an ambush of assassins from Fu Hu Hall, explicitly targeting Lin Zhen'er. Tu Siyi initially tried to draw the attackers away, but they were singularly focused on Lin Zhen'er, commending her formidable martial arts skills despite her feigned weakness. Just as they were becoming overwhelmed, Cui Xun, informed by his spies of Tu Sicheng's clandestine meetings with Fu Hu Hall, arrived just in time to rescue them.
During their escape, Tu Siyi revealed to Lin Zhen'er his discovery that Tu Sicheng was red-green colorblind, a fact he observed during archery practice when Tu Sicheng couldn't distinguish red from green targets. Applying her knowledge of genetic theory, Lin Zhen'er immediately deduced that Tu Sicheng could not be the Emperor's biological son, reasoning that red-green colorblindness in males, if inherited from the father, means the father must also be colorblind, and the Emperor himself was not.
Recognizing this as a crucial opportunity to remove Tu Sicheng, they decided to expose his illegitimate status. That night, Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er visited Tu Sicheng's tent under the pretense of delivering plums for the upcoming worship ceremony, which Tu Sicheng perceived as red. Tu Sicheng was proudly wearing a red hat gifted by his beloved concubine.
While he was distracted distributing the plums to guards, Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er discreetly swapped his red hat for a green one. Tu Sicheng, unable to distinguish the colors, unknowingly paraded around in the green hat, taking the guards' comments on his "special hat" as compliments, which confirmed his colorblindness to Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er.
Later, his concubine furiously confronted him about wearing a "green hat," a symbol of infidelity, explaining that the hat she gave him was red and had been secretly swapped. Realizing he had been tricked and publicly humiliated, Tu Sicheng vowed revenge. While discussing how to publicly prove Tu Sicheng's illegitimacy, Lin Zhen'er initially suggested a 'blood-drop kinship test,' believing it might work within the game's logic, especially if they added oil to the water to ensure blood separation.
However, Tu Siyi then informed her that he had already ingeniously set in motion a public "blood-drop kinship test." When the Emperor tasked him with overseeing the pre-hunt worship ceremony, Tu Siyi seized the opportunity to propose a "True Dragon's Blood for Rain" ritual, a Southern legend claiming the Emperor's blood could summon precipitation. He suggested that both he and Tu Sicheng, as princes, also offer their blood alongside the Emperor, thereby forcing Tu Sicheng into a public kinship test.
Lin Zhen'er was impressed by Tu Siyi's quick thinking. Lin Zhen'er's return to Noble Consort Yue's tent startled Noble Consort Yue, who was surprised that Tu Sicheng had failed to eliminate Zhen'er as planned. Meanwhile, in a meeting with the Emperor and his sons, Tu Siyi's proposal for a blood sacrifice to pray for rain, involving the Emperor, Tu Sicheng, and himself, was met with vehement opposition from Tu Sicheng, who dismissed it as "southern barbarian talk."
However, Tu Siyi challenged Tu Sicheng to offer an alternative solution to the drought, and the Emperor, viewing the ritual as a means to stabilize public sentiment, overruled Tu Sicheng and commanded both princes to participate. Realizing Tu Siyi's proposal was a thinly veiled attempt to expose his non-royal lineage, Tu Sicheng immediately summoned his subordinate, Lao Bai, and ordered the Fu Hu Hall forces, which he secretly commanded, to advance their rebellion plan overnight.
Tu Sicheng, fearing exposure, initiated his rebellion earlier than planned. His forces launched a swift night attack on the hunting encampment, overwhelming and killing many stationed soldiers. The Emperor and all the imperial officials, including Noble Consort Yue, were captured and bound. The Emperor angrily confronted Tu Sicheng, denouncing him as a disobedient son.
Tu Sicheng, in turn, gloated, confirming Noble Consort Yue's complicity by remarking that he would rather rely on himself for the throne than make deals with a "beloved concubine" who interfered in government affairs. This revelation deeply pained the Emperor. Tu Sicheng then declared that by morning, Chu Xing State would be his. However, he soon noticed the absence of Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er.
A report confirmed that half of the defending guards were also missing, leading Tu Sicheng to suspect Tu Siyi's counter-move. Just then, Tu Siyi and Lin Zhen'er, having rallied a portion of the imperial guards, arrived with their troops, blocking the encampment entrance. Tu Sicheng immediately ordered his men to attack. The encampment erupted into a fierce battle. Lin Zhen'er directly engaged Tu Sicheng, accusing him of cowardly and underhanded tactics.
Tu Sicheng, however, retaliated by revealing that Noble Consort Yue was behind the recent assassination attempt on Lin Zhen'er at the hunting grounds. The Emperor, aghast, demanded to know what other secrets were being kept from him, to which Tu Sicheng cryptically replied that there was much the Emperor didn't know. Tu Siyi, frustrated by his own perceived lack of martial skills, then intervened to defend Lin Zhen'er, lamenting aloud that the male lead shouldn't be so unskilled.
He confronted Tu Sicheng, asking which hand he used to strike his girlfriend, before seizing a wooden stick and repeatedly striking Tu Sicheng's head until he bled, rendering him helpless. Just as victory seemed within their grasp, a mysterious mist enveloped the area, causing Tu Siyi, Cui Xun, the Emperor, and all others present to suddenly become disoriented and collapse.
Episode 27 Recap
Lin Zhengzheng and Tu Siyi regained consciousness to find their people bound. Tu Sicheng appeared, revealing he had prepared for this moment, using a gas-generating Ligu Liguding to incapacitate them; his own men had already taken the antidote. He explained that he chose to act that day because Tu Siyi's proposal for a blood sacrifice to prove imperial lineage had forced his hand.
He preferred to strike preemptively rather than face public exposure and the loss of his title as he was not the Emperor's biological son. Tu Sicheng confessed that his late mother, Consort Yun, had revealed to him on her deathbed that he was not the Emperor's biological son but was born of her and another man, whose identity she never disclosed.
She had urged him to become Emperor to secure his own safety and stand at the highest point, free from any threats. The Emperor erupted in anger, cursing Consort Yun, but Tu Sicheng retaliated, accusing the Emperor of coldness and indifference towards his mother once he found new favorites. He asserted that it was the Emperor's neglect that forced him into a life of constant apprehension, fearing the revelation of his secret.
Tu Sicheng then offered clemency to anyone who would pledge loyalty to him, but declared that the Emperor, Tu Siyi, and Lin Zhen'er must die. He announced his intention to demonstrate "what it's like to be losers," starting with Lin Zhen'er. As Tu Sicheng moved to strike Lin Zhen'er, an arrow suddenly shot forth, deflecting his blade. Immediately after, Tu Sicheng's soldiers began to fall, struck by a volley of arrows.
Everyone looked up to see Princess Siya, leading the Danhuang Sect, arriving to rescue them. Although Siya's martial arts had significantly improved under Cui Xun's tutelage, she was still outmatched by Tu Sicheng, prompting Cui Xun to swiftly intervene. Tu Sicheng's rebel forces were quickly subdued, and he was captured.
It was revealed that Tu Siyi and his allies had anticipated Tu Sicheng's preemptive strike before the blood sacrifice ceremony and had enlisted Princess Siya and the Danhuang Sect as outside assistance. Seeing his cause lost, Tu Sicheng made a desperate final move, seizing a sword and lunging at the Emperor. In a moment of panic, the Emperor pulled Qianyue in front of him to block the attack.
Witnessing the complete collapse of his plans, Tu Sicheng chose to take his own life. Following the rebellion, Tu Sicheng's followers were imprisoned. The Emperor, deeply affected by the incident, rewarded Tu Siyi and Princess Siya for their roles in saving him. He restored Lin Zhengzheng's status as the Third Princess Consort and, showing leniency, did not blame Princess Siya for fleeing her arranged marriage. Princess Siya presented a letter from Li Changxiu, stating his unwillingness to marry her.
Observing that neither party wished for the marriage and citing his own poor health, the Emperor agreed to postpone any decisions regarding Siya's marriage. With Tu Siyi now his only remaining son, the Emperor, whose health had declined, entrusted him with assisting in the governance of the Chuxing State, to which Tu Siyi pledged his utmost effort. As for Qianyue, her title as Noble Consort was abolished.
Due to the injuries she sustained during the hunt, the Emperor ordered her to be sent to the Third Prince’s mansion for Shen Daifu to treat, as the palace lacked the means to properly care for her. Upon arriving at the palace to collect Qianyue, Shen Daifu found her mentally unstable. She vehemently rejected being called "Noble Consort Yue," insisting she was "Princess Qianyue," her memory having regressed to the time of their first meeting.
Palace maids and guards, observing her behavior, openly declared her insane. Shen Daifu, enraged, reprimanded them, threatening anyone who dared to speak ill of Princess Qianyue. He then escorted her out of the palace. Realizing that despite days of treatment, he hadn't found the cause of her illness, Shen Daifu decided to take Qianyue back to Huanyue State. He hoped the abundant herbal medicines there and the familiarity of her homeland would improve her condition.
He expressed his newfound dedication to healing just this one person, a departure from his previous belief in treating as many as possible. Lin Zhengzheng and Tu Siyi bid farewell to them, with Qianyue announcing her return. Princess Siya and Cui Xun also decided to go traveling, but instead of a vacation, Cui Xun took Siya to his family home to meet his grandfather.
Siya, nervous about making a good impression, attempted to present herself as a gentle, refined princess, despite her usual preference for men's clothing and martial arts. She claimed to be delicate, eating very little, and capable of playing the zither. The Cui family, including a young cousin, inquired about fashionable dresses and cosmetics. While attempting to play an ancient zither, a treasured heirloom of Cui Xun’s grandfather, Siya accidentally broke its strings.
Mortified, she ran outside, followed by Cui Xun, who reassured her that she should simply be her true, happy self and not change for anyone. Siya then returned and openly confessed her true nature to the family: she eats large portions, loves martial arts and swords, and prefers wearing men’s clothes, just like Cui Xun.
To her surprise, the Cui family was delighted, expressing that they had initially worried Cui Xun’s dedication to martial arts would displease her, but now saw how well suited they were. They warmly welcomed her into the family. Meanwhile, back at the Third Prince’s mansion, Lin Zhengzheng, having had her status as Third Princess Consort restored, was cheerfully hanging bedsheets with Tu Siyi. She had given most of the servants a paid vacation, leaving the mansion unusually quiet.
She reflected that with Tu Sicheng defeated, their main goal was for Tu Siyi to ascend the throne. A game notification then appeared, revealing that half a year (180 days) spent in the game world had amounted to only 30 minutes in the real world. This meant that 24 hours in the game equated to just 10 seconds outside.
They joked about the possibility of staying for 50 more years, as that would only translate to 50 hours in the real world. However, Lin Zhengzheng quickly reminded Tu Siyi about his upcoming press conference with Miya. She playfully scolded him for still thinking about the outside world and Miya after all her efforts to save him within the game. At that moment, Eunuch Hou arrived, relaying an urgent message from the Emperor, summoning Tu Siyi to the palace immediately for a discussion. Lin Zhengzheng decided to accompany him.
Episode 28 Recap
Lin Zhengzheng, concerned for Tu Siyi, accompanied him to the palace. The Imperial Doctor reported that the Emperor was suffering from a malfunction in his liver and stagnation of liver qi, leading to depression and blocked qi and blood, clearly indicating his distress over Consort Yun’s betrayal. The Emperor, feeling unable to govern, immediately summoned Tu Siyi, declaring his intention to pass the throne of Chuxing State to him.
He then asked his Master Teacher Sun to confirm an auspicious day for the coronation. Master Teacher Sun revealed that in forty-nine days, there would be a once-in-a-century auspicious day, ensuring the prosperity of Chuxing State for another five hundred years if the ceremony was held then. The Emperor agreed, and Tu Siyi accepted the edict. After a long wait, Tu Siyi returned, looking distraught, which worried Lin Zhengzheng.
He then revealed the exciting news that the Emperor planned to hand the throne over to him in forty-nine days. Lin Zhengzheng quickly understood this meant they would complete their game mission and return to the real world in a period equivalent to less than ten minutes there. Overjoyed, she concluded that they only needed to enjoy their remaining time.
Her excitement drew the attention of passing palace maids, causing Tu Siyi to quickly pull her aside and wait for them to pass before celebrating with her. Later, both Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng realized that returning to their reality meant they wouldn't see Tu Siya and Cui Xun again, and they already felt a sense of longing.
Tu Siyi then sought out Cui Xun, pressing him about when he planned to propose to Tu Siya, emphasizing his desire to settle those around them before he and Lin Zhengzheng left. He didn’t want his sister to marry into some unknown place again. Cui Xun, initially unconcerned, quickly decided to propose on the spot but was stopped by Tu Siyi, who advised him on the importance of surprises and gifts.
Tu Siyi suggested that Cui Xun think about Siya’s likes and dislikes, noting that Siya was known for preferring men’s clothes and having masculine interests. Meanwhile, Lin Zhengzheng was helping Tu Siya dress up, and discovered Siya’s secret desire for more feminine styles, despite Cui Xun's perception. Lin Zhengzheng even taught her how to make milk tea, reminiscing about leisurely afternoons with her own friends.
Later that evening, Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng worried that Cui Xun, having taken Tu Siyi’s earlier advice, might have chosen a "masculine" gift, such as fitness equipment or something related to strength. However, when they checked on Tu Siya, she was happily playing with Cui Xun's gift, an entertaining and interactive toy. Tu Siya then joyfully announced her acceptance of Cui Xun’s proposal, much to Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng's relief.
With the coronation date set, Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng found themselves with nothing to do. They discussed various travel options, from the seaside (which Tu Siyi feared would tan him) to neighboring countries (which Tu Siyi deemed too dangerous and time-consuming for soon-to-be crown prince and princess), and even shopping (which Tu Siyi found tiring), but couldn't agree.
Tu Siyi eventually suggested visiting a temple on Mount Panlong, an idea Lin Zhengzheng agreed to despite the complicated terrain, trusting Tu Siyi and his knowledge of maps. Separately, Tu Siya introduced Cui Xun to her newly recruited disciples of the Danhuang Sect, a martial arts school she founded. Initially, Cui Xun mistook the children for gifts, then expressed a dislike for teaching them.
Tu Siya took charge, proudly welcoming her new disciples and vowing to lead the Danhuang Sect to become the largest martial arts faction, ensuring her disciples could walk the world with confidence and without fear of bullying. For a demonstration, she asked Cui Xun to pretend to be a villain, teaching the children self-defense by identifying vulnerable spots on the body that should not be touched.
During the subsequent practice session, the children enthusiastically applied her lessons, all attacking Cui Xun. The next morning, Tu Siyi, woken by his homemade "Alarm Cock," was excited to visit the grand opening of a new musical instrument shop. However, Lin Zhengzheng had stopped the alarm and overslept, having purposefully slept separately to avoid being woken early.
Despite Tu Siyi's insistence on queuing for the experience, as it felt more authentic, Lin Zhengzheng took her time, even requesting time to put on makeup, causing them to miss the best slot. To make amends, she offered to "teach a lesson" to someone Tu Siyi couldn't defeat. Tu Siyi readily accepted, and they headed to a boxing arena where Lin Zhengzheng confronted Li Dazhuang, the man who had previously beaten Tu Siyi.
Lin Zhengzheng declared that harming her boyfriend was like harming her, then swiftly defeated Li Dazhuang with her superior martial arts skills. In the real world, the game designer Xiao En was ecstatic to see a notification pop up: "New equipment acquired: succeeding to the throne after 49 days." He marveled at Lin Zhengzheng's game genius, noting that they were close to completing the game in just half an hour.
Meanwhile, company employees discovered the game was running again and immediately informed Wen Sheng, the company head. Enraged, Wen Sheng rushed back to the office, accusing Xiao En of being a traitor. Wen Sheng argued that if Tu Siyi woke up, the game’s flaws would be exposed, leading to the company’s downfall. Xiao En, however, pleaded not to sacrifice human lives, pointing out how far the players had come.
Disregarding Xiao En’s protests, Wen Sheng tied him up, determined to forcibly shut down the game to prevent Tu Siyi from ever waking. Wen Sheng then revealed a "shortcut": Tu Siyi could complete the game if he had the courage to "kill" the leading female villain, Lin Zhen'er. However, he cruelly stated that it was too late for Xiao En or the players to know this. As Wen Sheng prepared to shut down the game, Xiao En desperately cried out against it.
Episode 29 Recap
Feeling hungry, Lin Zhengzheng went to the kitchen to find something to eat. Suddenly, an urgent system message appeared, announcing that the game would automatically shut down in ten seconds. In the real world, Xiao En sent a hidden message to Lin Zhengzheng, revealing that the system was being shut down and the shortcut to complete the game was for Tu Siyi to kill the main antagonist, Lin Zhen'er. Just then, Tu Siyi entered the kitchen.
He noticed Lin Zhengzheng seemed preoccupied and asked, "Zhengzheng, what do you have in your hand?" She quickly hid the message and replied, "Nothing," brushing off his concern. Tu Siyi playfully chided her about her appetite, warning that she would get "really fat" outside the game. Lin Zhengzheng (who was embodying the character Lin Zhen'er in the game) realized that the real-world ten-second countdown translated to only 24 hours in the game.
With no time left to achieve their goal through normal means, the only option was the shortcut. Knowing that if she, as Lin Zhen'er, were killed, she would not be able to return to the real world, she decided to keep this dire information from Tu Siyi. Later, in her room, Lin Zhengzheng calculated the remaining time. Tu Siyi found her still distracted and asked, "Zhengzheng, what's wrong with you? Why are you out of your mind the whole day?"
Lin Zhengzheng finally revealed her true feelings, expressing how she had fought hard to get into the game and overcome many challenges to complete her task, despite often doubting her own strength. She emphasized her sole desire to get him out. Then, she proposed an idea, saying, "I want to do a thing. How about having a wedding? To entertain our friends here." Tu Siyi was initially surprised, remarking, "A wedding? How can we make jokes on such things?"
But Lin Zhengzheng explained, "Don't you want to say goodbye to this place?" He eventually agreed, saying, "Okay. Let's hold a wedding. Chinese-style wedding." They decided to begin preparations that very day. Tu Siya and Cui Xun eagerly helped with the wedding preparations. Cui Xun grumbled about the elaborate setup, stating that his own wedding would be as simple as possible, merely introducing his wife to his grandfather.
Tu Siya was annoyed by his insensitive remarks, and Master Cui, Cui Xun's grandfather, scolded him for his lack of romantic flair. Master Cui then intervened, charming Tu Siya with a flower, which quickly earned Cui Xun Tu Siya's forgiveness. Tu Siyi’s brother, Shen Daifu, also returned to celebrate the wedding. Tu Siyi thanked Master Cui for lending his private courtyard for the event.
He then enlisted Shen Daifu, Tu Siya, and Cui Xun to help him prepare a special surprise gift for Lin Zhen'er: a unique song and musical instruments. During the preparations, Shen Daifu even joked about the "electric shock power" of electric eels they were using for some instrument. That night, Tu Siyi returned home to find Lin Zhengzheng still awake. He excitedly told her about the "wonderful gift" he was preparing for her.
She then asked him to recall the significant dates of their six-year relationship, including when they first got together and their first kiss. To her surprise and delight, Lin Zhengzheng remarked, "Brilliant. The first time you didn't confuse these two dates," as Tu Siyi remembered every date correctly. Tu Siyi then expressed his deep commitment, telling her that he had taken all her "lectures" to heart and vowed to take care of her daily life and remember all their anniversaries.
Lin Zhengzheng was touched by his newfound maturity and asked, "Why are you suddenly enlightened?" He attributed it to her constant guidance, and he declared, "I don't want others to like me. It's enough that you love me." As Lin Zhengzheng became emotional, Tu Siyi comforted her. She then suggested they share a drink, asking him to feed it to her. He found it unusual but complied.
She looked at him with great resolve and asked, "Tu Siyi, have you regretted being together with me?" He unequivocally stated, "No, I haven't. And I'll never feel regret." She responded, "I don't regret either." The next day, their wedding ceremony commenced. Tu Siyi was visibly nervous, despite having been married as the Third Prince in the game, acknowledging that this felt like his first true wedding.
The host welcomed everyone to the wedding of Mr. Tu Siyi and Miss Lin Zhen'er. Tu Siyi then presented his special gift to Lin Zhen'er: a song he had composed just for her. As he sang, Lin Zhen'er was deeply moved, recalling their journey together and the special memories they had created in the game.
During their vows, Tu Siyi proclaimed that he had always been hesitant in life, but his love for Lin Zhen'er was unshakeable, defying any prophecies of "mismatching by fate" or "dreadful consequence." Lin Zhen'er, though heartbroken inside, smiled as she felt Tu Siyi's genuine love and hopes for their future. She made a series of requests to him, which sounded like a farewell: "Remember, don't stay up late. Only a good rest can enable you to get inspiration.
You can get close to your fans, but not too close. Don't skip breakfast or lunch, or dinner." Tu Siyi sensed something was terribly wrong and asked, "Zhen'er, what are you talking about? What happened? Aren't we going back together soon? Why are you acting like we are parting from each other?" Lin Zhen'er then confessed the truth: "The game has been shut down. We can't go back if we don't finish the task. Unless you 'kill' me.
This is the shortcut to go back. We are running out of time. We only have little time left." Tu Siyi refused, exclaiming, "If we can't go back, then we stay!" But Lin Zhen'er insisted they share a final drink. As she drank, she collapsed, bringing the wedding to a tragic end. Tu Siyi cried out "Zhengzheng," realizing what had happened. Suddenly, Tu Siyi found himself back in the real world, lying next to the unconscious Lin Zhengzheng.
He frantically called her name, realizing she had not returned from the game. An executive (Wen Sheng) approached him, but Tu Siyi confronted him, accusing him of shutting down the game and preventing their return. The executive ordered his guards to seize Tu Siyi. With Xiao En's help, Tu Siyi managed to escape the game hall, desperately fleeing from the pursuing bodyguards. They were eventually cornered.
The executive then used an electric shock device to incapacitate Tu Siyi, reveling in his triumph. However, at that very moment, the police arrived. Xiao En revealed he had called the police in advance, condemning the executive's actions: "You went crazy in making games. You even 'killed' people. Go to jail!" The executive was apprehended, while Tu Siyi could only mourn the loss of Lin Zhengzheng, who remained trapped in the game.
Episode 30 (Ending) Recap
Tu Siyi awoke in a hospital, determined to leave despite his agent's insistence that he stay and recover from the "big incident." His agent informed him that the police had taken control of the game company and that a lawyer's letter would be sent the following day. Tu Siyi, however, was preoccupied with Lin Zhengzheng, who was still trapped in the game.
He asked about her condition, learning that the game had been stopped and the programmers were explaining the situation to the police, but there was a fear that Lin Zhengzheng might never wake up. Tu Siyi declared Lin Zhengzheng was his girlfriend, a revelation that shocked his agent, who angrily reminded him it was a breach of contract. Ignoring the warnings, Tu Siyi tied his agent to the hospital bed and rushed to the game company.
Upon arrival, Tu Siyi pushed past the security guards, insisting they couldn't abandon Lin Zhengzheng, who had been trapped trying to save him. Xiao En, the person in charge, allowed him to enter. Xiao En explained that the game's data had been reorganized; restarting it would not restore the previous data.
Tu Siyi would no longer be the Third Prince, and Lin Zhengzheng would not be the Third Princess, as they would both enter the game as ordinary non-player characters in a completely new story, with Lin Zhengzheng having lost all her memories. Xiao En strongly advised against re-entering, emphasizing the low chances of success and the risk that if they failed, neither of them would be able to return to reality.
Despite the warnings, Tu Siyi was resolute, declaring he would succeed because Lin Zhengzheng had once entered the game to save him. He vowed to go in, even if it meant being trapped with her forever. Xiao En initiated the game, sending Tu Siyi back into the virtual world. The moment he re-entered, Tu Siyi deeply understood Lin Zhengzheng's initial feelings of being in a foreign world where no one knew her, facing an impossible mission.
Yet, for Lin Zhengzheng, he felt fearless. Xiao En, from the outside, modified the game's backend, granting Tu Siyi increased strength and allowing him to skip directly to the final mission. He advised Tu Siyi that given the heightened difficulty, he must first gather powerful allies, though he was a stranger to them all and would have to persuade them. Tu Siyi's first target was Cui Xun, a skilled fighter who appeared to be a lowbrow in the town.
Tu Siyi surprised Cui Xun by fluently recounting his life story, including how he was avoiding his grandfather, who had taught him to play the Xun, and how his grandmother had died of sorrow due to his grandfather's obsession with music. Winning Cui Xun's trust, Tu Siyi promised to introduce him to a beautiful woman he would fall in love with.
Next, they found Tu Siya, whom Tu Siyi also impressed by revealing her frustrations: her dislike of wearing feminine clothes, the Emperor's pressure to do so, and the impending marriage to a prince from Yuanri State, which would prevent her from being her true self. He then pointed to Cui Xun, stating this man would love her forever. Convinced, Tu Siya agreed to help and asked about Shen Daifu, another key ally.
When Tu Siyi called out for Shen Daifu, Shen Daifu emerged, surprised by how Tu Siyi knew he was a doctor. Despite assembling these powerful allies, Tu Siyi faced skepticism. Shen Daifu, speaking for the group, admitted they were willing to help after Tu Siyi’s serious appeal and generous meal. However, he found it "ridiculous" that Tu Siyi claimed to have a wife who didn't recognize him and whose name and location were unknown to him.
Cui Xun echoed this sentiment, admitting he sometimes felt the same way. Just then, Tu Siyi spotted Lin Zhengzheng, who was being offered a Tianshan iron stone by a vendor. He called out "Zhengzheng!" and rushed to her. Lin Zhengzheng, having lost her memory, didn't recognize him and asked if he had mistaken her for someone else. Tu Siyi tried to explain, telling her he was there to save her and that he was her boyfriend.
Confused and alarmed, Lin Zhengzheng threatened to report him to the authorities, asking what a "boyfriend" even meant. Seeing that Lin Zhengzheng held a Tianshan iron stone that matched his own, a symbol of their bond, Tu Siyi, without another word, kissed her. In that moment, the entire game world seemed to fade away, as Tu Siyi realized that just as he had forgotten everything, Lin Zhengzheng had too, but that their love was a matter of destiny, not memory.
With his allies gathered and Lin Zhengzheng by his side, Tu Siyi was ready to storm the imperial palace. Xiao En, still guiding from the outside, assured him they would open the city gates remotely. He cautioned that thousands of elite guards would immediately confront them, but reminded Tu Siyi that these were merely data, urging him to fight without reservation.
As they made their grand entry, Tu Siyi playfully asked Lin Zhengzheng if she saw their "brilliant appearance" clearly this time, to which she replied she did not. With the combined strength of Tu Siya, Cui Xun, and Shen Daifu, they broke through the city gates. They encountered the Second Prince, whom the allies quickly subdued, clearing a path for Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng.
Hand in hand, they entered the main hall and successfully claimed the throne, completing the game's mission. Tu Siyi immediately returned to the real world, only to find Lin Zhengzheng still unresponsive beside him in the game pod. As security personnel around him asked if anyone had seen the girl, it became painfully clear that Lin Zhengzheng had not returned with him. As Tu Siyi returned to reality, reporters had already swarmed the scene.
He paid them no mind, his gaze fixed solely on Lin Zhengzheng. As he was being led away by security, Lin Zhengzheng finally stirred, removing her glasses and meeting his eyes. Feeling weak, she left the room and took the elevator, believing Tu Siyi had once again abandoned her for the reporters. Heartbroken, Lin Zhengzheng returned home, her sadness deepening with every thought, wishing she had stayed in the game where Tu Siyi belonged only to her.
The next day, Tu Siyi held a press conference, which Lin Zhengzheng quietly attended. Tu Siyi addressed the rumors, explaining that he had been trapped in his sponsored game, Highness Strategy, due to a program malfunction and external human interference. He confirmed he was safely rescued and used his experience to warn others against game addiction.
During the Q&A, reporters pressed him, asking if it was true he had initially escaped the game only to return voluntarily to save an "ordinary girl" who was rumored to be his fan. They eagerly asked for details about his and the girl's experiences and what motivated his return. To Lin Zhengzheng's shock, Tu Siyi claimed he remembered nothing of what happened inside the game, stating his memory ceased at the moment he entered.
His assertion that he had forgotten all their shared experiences deeply disheartened Lin Zhengzheng, who silently questioned how he could forget everything so easily. An official intervened, explaining that the police were protecting the girl's privacy and that since Tu Siyi couldn't recall, further questions about her were futile. Lin Zhengzheng, deeply hurt, left the press conference early, only to be caught by Tu Siyi, who had also slipped away.
When he asked why she was there, she retorted that it was none of his business and demanded he move away. He then asked why she hadn't shown concern for him after such a major incident, pondering if she was afraid he might never return. Lin Zhengzheng challenged him, asking if he truly forgot everything in the game.
With raw emotion, she passionately recounted their entire journey: their roles as the Third Prince and Princess, his sister Tu Siya, their friends Shen Daifu and Cui Xun, her pregnancy, his unwavering protection, their dance amidst danger, the water lanterns, their demotion to the imperial mausoleum, their shared meals of little rabbits, their victory over Tu Sicheng, and finally, their wedding. She questioned if he had truly forgotten it all and if she was the only one left to remember.
Tu Siyi gently took her hand and assured her, "Please don't cry, Zhen'er. I have kept everything in my mind." Lin Zhengzheng instantly realized he had been faking and angrily called him a liar. He apologized, promising it would be his last lie, and explained that he had feigned memory loss to the media to protect their precious memories from public scrutiny and constant disturbance. Lin Zhengzheng forgave him.
Tu Siyi then presented her with a gift: a re-recorded video of the precious moments she had once deleted. In the video, he playfully re-enacted her declaration of being his "number-one fan" and his promise to always keep a seat for her at his concerts, declaring, "I, Tu Siyi, and you, Lin Zhengzheng, get into a relationship today. We've become a sweet couple from good friends!"
He affirmed his eternal love for her, bringing a smile to Lin Zhengzheng's face, though she called him "holy sickening." Later, while walking together, a fan approached them, asking if Lin Zhengzheng was his girlfriend and if she could post a photo of them on social media. Tu Siyi readily agreed, stating he was planning to make their relationship public soon.
However, the fan, mesmerized by Lin Zhengzheng's beauty, advised against posting, fearing that people might say Tu Siyi didn't deserve her. Tu Siyi then shared a personal decision with Lin Zhengzheng: he would no longer pursue a career as an idol because the demanding schedule left him no time. Instead, he wanted to focus on being a singer, writing music, and performing at bars, making underground music. This, he explained, would allow him more time to be with her.
Lin Zhengzheng enthusiastically promised to attend his bar performances every night, even joking that if they became poor, she would support him. As Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng walked hand in hand, they observed three other couples, mirroring their friends from the game. They saw Cui Xun playfully doing warm-up exercises before a run, as Tu Siya called him slow, leading to a friendly challenge.
They also saw Shen Daifu arriving late from a surgery to his wife, who was teaching children the "chicken and rabbit question"; she lovingly offered him Chinese date and wolfberry tea. Another couple bickered about a traffic ticket, with the husband complaining about his green outfit, only for his wife to correct him that he was wearing red. He then confessed to having red-green color blindness, fearing his father would discover he wasn't his natural son. All these couples, like Tu Siyi and Lin Zhengzheng, found happiness in their daily lives.
