Truth or Dare Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Truth or Dare Synopsis
Xiao Wanzi has followed her father, He Yizhi, relying on the unique skill called “Break the rock on the chest” to make a living in the street since she was young.
A strange encounter at Ruyi Lou suddenly transformed the illiterate Xiao Wanzi into a county princess and married Mei Sanshao.
The daughter of the ninth prince, Lu Yingyao, who is going to marry Mei Sanshao, was mistakenly carried back to Qinglong Zhai by the bandit Master Xiao Bao as his wife.
Mei Sanshao resisted the marriage and push Xiao Wanzi away, hope that she’d willingly retreat. Xiao Wanzi had to pretend to be a county princess, also disliked the arrogant Mei Sanshao. In the battle of wits, this pair of quarrelsome lovers gradually developed a love affair.
Truth or Dare Recap
Episode 1 Recap
Qing was a seemingly peaceful province, but it suffered from the turmoil caused by the Salter Cartel. During this time, a mysterious figure known as Lord Nocturnal-elf, clad in a black cloak and cat mask, wielding a four-edge sword, appeared at night to punish the wealthy and help the poor. He was revered by the people, even warning a boss that if he dared to raise salt prices again, he would take his head.
Outside Qing City, remnants of bandits previously eliminated by the General's Mansion had re-established themselves as Dragon Stockade, taking over a mountain and terrorizing passing merchants. The only force capable of standing against them was Mei Shiqing, the third son of General Mei, who commanded his family's army. Mei Shiqing, accompanied by his deputy general, Siheng, actively worked to eliminate these bandits.
During a confrontation, Mei Shiqing fought against Master Bao, an adopted son of Nan Batian and a leader of Dragon Stockade. Wu, the second-in-command of Dragon Stockade, attempted a trick on Mei Shiqing, involving a substance to impair his vision. However, Mei Shiqing, a skilled martial artist, was able to continue fighting even with his eyes closed, forcing Master Bao and the other bandits to flee.
Later, Mei Shiqing was discovered to have been poisoned by the bandits, and his eyesight was gravely affected, with doctors holding little hope for recovery. Siheng suggested they retreat. Meanwhile, the busker He Yizhi and his daughter, Xiao Wanzi, were performing their "rock-breaking on chest" act in Qing City. Xiao Wanzi, a spirited and strong young woman, proudly declared Lord Nocturnal-elf her hero.
A wealthy young lord, observing the performance, was captivated by Xiao Wanzi and attempted to take her with him, promising a life of luxury. He Yizhi politely refused, but the lord's guards quickly became aggressive. Xiao Wanzi, possessing natural strength and martial arts skills, easily fended off the guards, even humorously dislocating and then relocating one's arm. As more guards arrived and chased them, He Yizhi and Xiao Wanzi ran into Mei Shiqing's carriage entourage.
He Yizhi pleaded with Mei Shiqing's deputy, Siheng, for justice, but Mei Shiqing, finding the commotion too noisy, simply ordered Siheng to disperse the crowd and return to the Mei Mansion. Siheng quickly drove off the aggressive lord and his men, threatening them with court-martial. However, a sudden burst of firecrackers startled Mei Shiqing's horses, sending the carriage careening through the market. With incredible strength, Xiao Wanzi chased after the runaway carriage and single-handedly brought it to a halt.
Concerned, she opened the carriage door to check on Mei Shiqing, only to be met with his rude command to "get out." Xiao Wanzi, indignant at his ingratitude, reminded him she had just saved him. Siheng, arriving on the scene, thanked Xiao Wanzi, who pointedly told Mei Shiqing to learn from his subordinate. As the horses stirred again, Xiao Wanzi lost her balance and tumbled into the carriage, accidentally landing on Mei Shiqing in a kiss.
Furious, Mei Shiqing immediately ordered Siheng to pull her out and return to the mansion. He Yizhi quickly rushed to retrieve his daughter. Back at Dragon Stockade, Master Bao, Nan Batian's adopted son, was brought in, complaining about his injuries to Nan Batian (his adoptive father). He blamed Wu, the second-in-command of Dragon Stockade, for their failure to capture Mei Shiqing and for his leg injury. He claimed that Wu's powder had blinded Mei Shiqing.
Nan Xiang, Nan Batian’s daughter, seeing Master Bao in pain, rushed to his side, vowing vengeance on whoever harmed him and even attempting to injure Wu for his perceived negligence. Nan Batian then instructed Liu, the Dragon Stockade physician, to properly care for Master Bao. Meanwhile, at the Mei Mansion, General Mei Changyun was furious that the bandits had escaped and deeply distressed by his son Mei Shiqing's blindness.
Siheng delivered the grim news that the doctor held little hope for Mei Shiqing regaining his sight. Mei Changyun's concubine, Her Ladyship, seized the opportunity to placate the General, while also subtly blaming Mei Shiqing for his ill-timed campaign just before his impending imperial marriage. She suggested that the Lady would surely not want to marry Mei Shiqing in his current state.
Mei Shiqing, in turn, used his blindness as a reason to request his father to cancel the marriage, stating he was no longer a suitable match for the Lady. However, Mei Changyun vehemently refused, reminding his son that it was an imperial decree and defying it would jeopardize the lives of the entire Mei family. He chided Mei Shiqing for his choices, from pursuing military over imperial exams to now being blinded.
Her Ladyship then brazenly put forward her own son, Shiyuan, as a replacement groom. Mei Changyun, however, scorned Shiyuan as a good-for-nothing who frequented brothels and casinos. When Mei Shiqing remarked that even his deceased elder brother, Shiming, would only have been a "pawn" in their father's schemes, Mei Changyun flew into a rage and ordered that Mei Shiqing be punished.
Siheng intervened, kneeling and reminding the General that it was the death anniversary of Mei Shiqing's birth mother, even offering to take the punishment himself. In memory of his late wife, Mei Changyun relented but sternly warned Mei Shiqing that he must go through with the imperial marriage, regardless of whether it was a good match. Her Ladyship, watching from the side, mused that a blind man's arrogance wouldn't last long.
In the Ninth Lord's Mansion, Lady Lu Yingyao massaged her father, the Ninth Lord, who lamented the empty state of his once grand residence, now a mere shell. Lu Yingyao subtly attempted to persuade him to cancel her upcoming marriage, hinting that she believed he had requested the imperial decree himself. However, the Ninth Lord sternly refused, reminding her that an imperial decree could not be defied, and she must marry.
He praised Mei Shiqing, the third son of General Mei, as a famously talented man, a sentiment echoed by Lu Yingyao's maid, Qiaoyun. Lu Yingyao, however, expressed her apprehension, noting Qing's remote location and the Mei family's military background. She suspected her father was more interested in their wealth and military influence. The Ninth Lord firmly stated that imperial children historically had no say in their marriages, and she must wed.
He then instructed Qiaoyun to prepare Lady Lu Yingyao for the impending wedding. Lu Yingyao, despite Qiaoyun's reassurances about Mei Shiqing's talents, remained distressed, worrying that he might be "ugly" or even "an idiot." She desperately suggested escaping to become a nun, but Qiaoyun quickly warned her of the dire consequences, stating that defying an imperial marriage would result in the punishment of their entire nine generations.
Later, a hungry Xiao Wanzi and He Yizhi, having earned nothing all day, passed by the famous Felicity Tavern, its delicious aromas enticing Xiao Wanzi. Despite their poverty, He Yizhi, touched by his daughter's yearning, decided to treat her to a single dish: sweet and sour ribs. Inside, they watched Lady Rou, the tavern's manager and a famous performer, perform a beautiful and elegant dance, which deeply impressed Xiao Wanzi. In a private room, Mei Shiqing and Siheng dined.
Mei Shiqing, still disturbed by his father's actions and the lingering threat of the Dragon Stockade, expressed his long-standing resentment towards his father, who he felt would always prioritize military advancement over his family’s well-being. Lady Rou entered, immediately noticing Mei Shiqing's apparent blindness. She knelt, expressing profound gratitude to Mei Shiqing for giving her a new life at Felicity Tavern—teaching her to sing and dance, and entrusting her with managing the establishment. She offered to serve him forever.
Mei Shiqing then removed his eye patch, revealing that he was not, in fact, blind. He explained that he was feigning blindness to avoid the imperial marriage and, more importantly, to smoke out an internal betrayer within the Mei Mansion who had leaked information to the Dragon Stockade, leading to their ambush. Mei Shiqing then inquired about Lady Rou's investigation into the Salter Cartel.
She reported finding a hidden stash of private salt, indicating that salt smuggling, suppressed for decades since Li Tianlong's cartel collapsed, appeared to be making a comeback. A commotion on the main floor interrupted their conversation. Siheng investigated and reported that a drunken girl was performing acrobatics, drawing a crowd. Lady Rou and Siheng went downstairs to handle it. Drawn by the smell of food, a very drunk Xiao Wanzi stumbled into Mei Shiqing's private room.
Recognizing him, she loudly accused him of being ungrateful and for "teasing" her earlier, then proceeded to bite his arm in a fit of drunken revenge. Siheng quickly rushed back and dragged Xiao Wanzi out. A pained Mei Shiqing angrily ordered Lady Rou to ensure that the "mad woman" was never allowed into Felicity Tavern again. As they were forcibly removed, He Yizhi and Xiao Wanzi defiantly declared they would continue to enjoy the tavern's aroma from outside.
Expelled from Felicity Tavern, Xiao Wanzi, riding in a cart, spotted her idol, Lord Nocturnal-elf, flying through the night sky. She quickly gave chase, eventually cornering him against a wall. Drunk and impassioned, she professed her admiration, begged him to teach her to fly, and pleaded to join him in his heroic deeds, declaring them a "perfect match." However, when He Yizhi called out to her, and she turned to boast of her discovery, Lord Nocturnal-elf mysteriously vanished.
He Yizhi, ever the gambler, then took Xiao Wanzi to Paradise Casino. He lost all their money, including previous debts, to the casino manager, Chi Feng. Chi Feng, noticing Xiao Wanzi's appearance, declared she could be "sold for a good price" and ordered his men to seize her as collateral for the debts. He Yizhi desperately protested, insisting on bearing his own debts, but his pleas were ignored. Xiao Wanzi, despite her earlier boasts, was gagged and dragged away.
Meanwhile, at Dragon Stockade, Master Bao and Wu were punished with menial tasks, such as sweeping toilets, for their failure to capture Mei Shiqing, each blaming the other. Nan Xiang, still caring for Master Bao, brought him medicine and sweet fruit, but he rudely rejected her. Wu, fearing that Nan Xiang's affection for Master Bao might lead to their marriage and threaten his own standing, approached Nan Batian with a suggestion.
He proposed that Master Bao marry the strong girl from Paradise Casino who could perform "rock-breaking on chest," claiming she had a "good make" and could "bear a brood of kids," thereby bringing good fortune to the stockade. Master Bao immediately rejected the idea, calling the girl a "shrew." However, Nan Batian, seeing this as an opportunity to rein in Master Bao's temper and secure an heir for the stockade, agreed.
He decreed that Master Bao would marry the girl in three days, selecting a particularly "lucky day" for the "wedding." Chi Feng delivered the news of the impending marriage to He Yizhi and Xiao Wanzi, informing them that Master Bao, Nan Batian's adopted son, wished to marry Xiao Wanzi. He Yizhi vehemently protested, arguing that his daughter was a maiden and should not be forced into a bandit's lair.
Chi Feng, however, stated that they had no choice, emphasizing that it was Xiao Wanzi's "luck" to marry Master Bao and that even with her strength, she would never escape the formidable "mountain-guarding formation of Dragon Stockade." As Chi Feng's men began beating He Yizhi, Xiao Wanzi, distraught at her father's suffering, cried out, "I'll marry him! Stop!" and finally agreed.
Episode 2 Recap
Chi Feng threatened He Yizhi, telling him that his daughter, Xiao Wanzi, was lucky to marry Master Bao. He Yizhi tried to defend her, but Xiao Wanzi stopped the fighting, crying, "Don't beat my dad! Stop! Please! I'll marry him! I will." She then asked Chi Feng, "I'll marry him, you can let go of my father now?" Chi Feng assured her he would keep his word: "Once you marry Master Bao, I'll let go of your father."
He Yizhi begged Xiao Wanzi not to marry, but she turned to him and pleaded, "Promise me, don't gamble anymore. Or I would worry about you. Take care of yourself." With a heavy heart, she was then taken away by Chi Feng. To ensure a good start to the marriage, Chi Feng brought Xiao Wanzi to Felicity Tavern, the biggest inn in Qing, for her final preparations before the wedding.
Meanwhile, Lady Yingyao's carriage was approaching Qing, but no one from the Mei family came to receive them. Her maid, Qiaoyun, noted their arrival and the lack of a welcoming party. Lady Yingyao, as the emperor's niece, felt disrespected and decided not to go to the Mei mansion directly, choosing to stay at Felicity Tavern instead.
At the Mei mansion, a servant tried to rush Mei Shiqing, informing him that Lady Yingyao had arrived in Qing and his father, Mei Changyun, threatened punishment if he didn't go to escort her. Mei Shiqing remained indifferent, calmly sipping his tea. Mei Changyun was then informed by his butler, Tao Juzheng, that Lady Yingyao had opted to stay at Felicity Tavern.
Despite his initial anger at Mei Shiqing's refusal to greet her, Mei Changyun acknowledged Mei Shiqing's current "condition" and ordered Tao Juzheng to go fetch Lady Yingyao. Inside Felicity Tavern, Qiaoyun told Lady Yingyao that she had overheard rumors that Mei Shiqing suffered an eye injury while suppressing bandits, and "he might. . . be blind."
Horrified at the prospect of marrying a blind man, Lady Yingyao wanted to pack and return home, but Qiaoyun reminded her that it was a royal marriage, and defying it would be a capital offense for everyone. Unbeknownst to them, Master Bao also arrived at Felicity Tavern, eager to see his wife-to-be, whom he initially believed was a "shrew who is good at rock-breaking on chest."
Chi Feng, trying to keep him away from the officers guarding Lady Yingyao, informed Master Bao that Xiao Wanzi was bathing in the room labeled "Marine Woods." Coincidentally, as Xiao Wanzi was dressed and veiled in her room, Qiaoyun entered, mistaking Xiao Wanzi for Lady Yingyao. Believing Lady Yingyao had changed her mind, Qiaoyun joyfully led the veiled Xiao Wanzi to the Mei family's carriage, whisking her away to Mei's Palace.
Upon arriving at the Mei's Palace, Xiao Wanzi heard Mei Changyun's voice during the ceremony, realizing the grave mistake. She remembered an earlier encounter in Felicity Tavern where she had accidentally bumped into Lu Yingyao after her bath, and they had apparently entered the wrong rooms. Fearing she would be beheaded if her true identity as not being the princess was revealed, Xiao Wanzi was terrified, especially when the ceremony concluded.
She tried to escape during the ceremony, but Mei Shiqing held her firmly, making it impossible. She resigned herself to the situation. Meanwhile, Lu Yingyao woke up in the Dragon Stockade next to Master Bao, who excitedly introduced himself as Nan Batian's foster son, the third Master, and her future husband. She quickly realized she had also gone to the wrong place, taking Xiao Wanzi's place.
Fearing for her life if she revealed her true identity as the emperor's niece to the bandits, Lu Yingyao decided to play along as Xiao Wanzi for the time being. Master Bao, who had initially expected a "shrew who is good at rock-breaking on chest", was instantly smitten by Lu Yingyao's beauty, still unaware of the identity swap. He brought a feast of whole ducks and pigs, his favorite foods, for her, promising to make her chubby.
Lu Yingyao, seeing the excessive meal, broke down crying, stating her desire to go home and see her father. Master Bao promised her anything but that, and then insisted on sleeping with her to "give him babies" as instructed by his foster father. Back at the Mei's Palace, Xiao Wanzi was in the bridal chamber with Mei Shiqing. She was relieved when she realized Mei Shiqing was genuinely blind.
Mei Shiqing, maintaining his facade, told her, "Since you don't want to marry, and I don't want to marry, then we just mind our own business and not interfere with each other's. Though we are now married, we will never do what husband and wife do." Xiao Wanzi readily agreed, especially when he confirmed he wouldn't touch her. She tried to escape later, but Mei Shiqing, despite his "blindness", detected her movements, remarking, "You ate too much.
I can hear your footsteps, even if you walk quietly." He warned her that the Mei's Palace was "heavily guarded," making escape impossible. When Xiao Wanzi tried to claim the bed, Mei Shiqing pointed her to a separate quilt on the floor, asserting it was his bed. She grumbled about his selfishness but decided to tolerate it, thinking, "I don't argue with you since you are blind. I'm such a generous person. I can fall asleep anywhere."
Master Bao then took Lu Yingyao to meet Nan Batian. Nan Batian, who had expected an entertainer to make Master Bao submissive but was then stunned by Lu Yingyao's beauty. Just as he was expressing his admiration, Nan Xiang, Nan Batian's daughter, burst in, furious about the marriage. Master Bao quickly shielded Lu Yingyao and led her away, while Nan Xiang argued with her father, demanding he prevent the marriage.
Nan Batian promised Nan Xiang a "satisfactory response" before admonishing his subordinate for not finding him such a beautiful wife. Back in their room, Master Bao, feeling sleepy, tried to sleep with Lu Yingyao. She vehemently refused, threatening to kill herself if he didn't leave. Seeing her distress, Master Bao reluctantly agreed to sleep elsewhere. After he left, Lu Yingyao, now alone, decided, "I have to escape from here as soon as possible.
It seems that Master Bao does like me. Probably I can use him to escape." Master Bao, outside the room, instructed his men to "grab something for women tomorrow. Such as something like make-up" for Lu Yingyao. Later that night, Mei Shiqing, haunted by nightmares of his mother's suffering, secretly activated a hidden mechanism under his bed. He transformed into Lord Nocturnal-elf and went to Felicity Tavern to meet Rou for an intelligence update.
Rou reported finding a Crazy Chen on the street who, in his "crazy words, he mentioned 'kill Lady Mei'". Rou also mentioned that Crazy Chen was a notorious and erratic individual who disappeared ten years ago and recently returned to Qing, now living by begging. Furthermore, Crazy Chen had mentioned Lai Ba from the Beggars' Sect, who was known for connecting assassins.
Rou had investigated and found that Lai Ba was indeed sourcing killers in the year Mei Shiqing's mother was killed. Mei Shiqing ordered Rou to "bring him to see me. I want the alive one." As Lord Nocturnal-elf prepared to return via the secret passage, he discovered that Xiao Wanzi, sleeping on his bed, had inadvertently blocked the mechanism.
Forced to use the main door, he was about to carry Xiao Wanzi back to her sleeping place when she, half-asleep, mumbled "Lord Nocturnal-elf" and pulled him into an accidental kiss.
Episode 3 Recap
Qiaoyun entered Mei Shiqing's room to help him and Xiao Wanziwash up. Upon seeing Pelletie's face, Qiaoyun was startled and dropped the basin. Xiao Wanziquickly pulled Qiaoyun away for a private conversation. Qiaoyun demanded to know where Her Lady was, but Xiao Wanziclaimed ignorance. Under Qiaoyun's persistent questioning, Xiao Wanzifinally confessed that she was merely a street performer who had been sold to Dragon Stockade to become the wife of a bandit to repay her father’s gambling debts.
She explained that she encountered Her Lady at the Felicity Tavern while taking a bath, and somehow ended up marrying Mei Shiqing. Qiaoyun realized that Her Lady had indeed escaped her marriage. She stressed that an escaped marriage was an act against His Majesty, which could lead to kin punishment, affecting the Mei Mansion, the Ninth Lord's Mansion, and even Pelletie’s own father.
To avoid this dire fate, Qiaoyun pressured Xiao Wanzito impersonate Her Lady until the real Lady could be found. Xiao Wanziinitially refused but relented when Qiaoyun threatened to take her own life. In exchange, Xiao Wanzimade Qiaoyun promise to help her find her father, He Yizhi, a condition Qiaoyun readily accepted.
Qiaoyun then introduced herself as Her Lady’s maid and Qiuhua as Her Lady's personal guard, assuring Xiao Wanzithat Mei Shiqing's blindness and the lack of people in the Mei Mansion who knew Her Lady's true appearance would make the impersonation feasible if Xiao Wanzifollowed her instructions. Xiao Wanzialso revealed that Mei Shiqing wished to keep their marriage an empty shell and was even considering divorcing Her Lady. Qiaoyun urged Xiao Wanzito be obedient to Mei Shiqing to preserve the marriage.
Pelletie, jokingly worried that Mei Shiqing might fall in love with her, was quickly reminded that as a mere entertainer, she could not truly win the affection of someone like Mei Shiqing. Xiao Wanziagreed, reiterating that they must find her father. Qiaoyun also strictly warned Xiao Wanziagainst any intimacy with Mei Shiqing. Back in Mei Shiqing’s room, following Qiaoyun's instructions to be more proactive and play her role well, Xiao Wanzitook the initiative to wipe his face.
Mei Shiqing's face flushed, recalling the events of the previous night. He then mischievously tried to vex Xiao Wanziby repeatedly asking her to change his belt. Pelletie, growing impatient, retaliated by playfully tightening a belt around his neck. Eventually, Mei Shiqing settled on the first belt Xiao Wanzihad offered.
An attendant arrived to announce that General Mei, out of consideration for Lady Yingyao's long journey, had excused the couple from morning greetings; they could serve tea during the family banquet at noon instead. After the attendant left, Qiaoyun immediately began an intensive etiquette training session for Pelletie, teaching her how to act like a Lady.
Xiao Wanzifound the rigorous training, which included specific ways of holding a teacup and maintaining posture, to be grueling and declared that she couldn't continue, lamenting that a fake could never become real. Qiaoyun encouraged her, highlighting the similarities between Xiao Wanziand the real Lady, which boosted Pelletie’s confidence. Qiaoyun advised her to keep her back straight, eat little, and speak sparingly during the banquet, promising to guide her with discreet signals.
Meanwhile, Qiuhua reported that he had searched Paradise Casino but could not find He Yizhi, leaving Xiao Wanzidisheartened and worried about her father. As the family banquet began, Xiao Wanzideliberately supported Mei Shiqing to the dining table. After successfully serving tea to Mei Changyun and Her Ladyship, Pelletie, adhering to Qiaoyun's advice, struggled to refrain from eating the delicious dishes on the table, only managing to take small bites when she found an opportune moment.
Mei Shiqing then boldly brought up his desire to move out, stating that since he was married, he should be allowed to establish his own household. Mei Changyun became enraged, telling him to discuss it after dinner, but Mei Shiqing insisted on clarity. When asked if this was also Lady Yingyao's wish, Pelletie, following the plan, affirmed Mei Shiqing's wishes as her own, explaining that as his wife, she would naturally follow his arrangements.
Mei Changyun slammed his chopsticks down, furious that Mei Shiqing was pushing for division while he was still alive. Her Ladyship added fuel to the fire, suggesting that Mei Shiqing had feigned blindness to escape his marriage. Enraged by Mei Shiqing's defiance and Her Ladyship's provocation, Mei Changyun ordered Tao Juzheng to bring the family's punishment whip. As Mei Changyun whipped Mei Shiqing, Pelletie, unable to bear the sight, rushed forward and shielded him.
She declared that if Mei Changyun wished to strike, he should strike her instead, confident that His Majesty would understand. Mei Changyun, unwilling to strike the Lady, relented. After the family banquet, Her Ladyship subtly mocked Mei Shiqing and Pelletie, remarking on how long the Lady could protect him and the oddity of a Lady marrying a blind man.
Outside, Xiao Wanzifelt a sense of accomplishment for her "Lady-like" performance, but Qiaoyun reminded her to maintain a low profile and avoid meddling in affairs that weren't hers. Xiao Wanziadmitted her intervention was impulsive, promising to be more discreet in the future. Mei Shiqing, his back covered in welts, received care from Pelletie. She chided him for his stubbornness in confronting General Mei, suggesting he show more respect.
Mei Shiqing angrily told her to stay out of his affairs, questioning why she intervened at all. Qiaoyun and Siheng tried to mediate, emphasizing Pelletie's concern and the idea of the couple living harmoniously. Xiao Wanzithen suggested to Mei Shiqing that he could "divide the family" by simply building a wall in his courtyard.
Mei Shiqing found the idea amusing, and the two engaged in a playful challenge, betting that if Xiao Wanzicould build the wall, Mei Shiqing would have to bow down and thank her respectfully. Pelletie, determined, immediately sought out Butler Tao Juzheng for tools and laborers. Tao Juzheng, citing the late hour, suggested they start the next day. He then reported the matter to Her Ladyship, who, along with Lord Shiyuan, saw an opportunity for further drama.
Her Ladyship instructed Tao Juzheng to fulfill all of Pelletie’s requests, hoping the escalating conflict would lead to greater trouble for Mei Shiqing. Meanwhile, at the Dragon Stockade, Lu Yingyao wondered how she could escape with guards constantly outside. A drunken Master Bao stumbled into her room. Lu Yingyao, seeing an opportunity, began flattering him, calling him the best, most responsible, brave, and handsome man in the stockade.
Master Bao, pleased, offered to spend every day with her, but Lu Yingyao asked him to release her in return for a monetary reward, promising to repay his kindness. Master Bao, seemingly agreeable, tried to get closer to her, but Lu Yingyao reminded him of his promise not to force her. He then collapsed onto the bed, feigning sleep.
Lu Yingyao, realizing he was pretending, observed him until he appeared truly asleep and noted that he had dismissed the guards, making it the perfect time to escape. She stole his clothes as a disguise and attempted to slip away but was spotted by guards who were confused by "Master Bao's" sudden change in height.
Just as they were about to realize her ruse, the real Master Bao, now awake, quickly grabbed Lu Yingyao and scolded her for her reckless escape attempt, reminding her of the dangers of the bandit-filled Dragon Stockade. He then skillfully diverted the guards' attention by sending them after a phantom escapee. Though he had saved her, Master Bao was angered by Lu Yingyao's stubborn desire to flee. He insisted she remove his clothes, but Lu Yingyao defiantly refused.
The next morning, Xiao Wanzienthusiastically led a group of workers to begin building the wall around Mei Shiqing's courtyard. Mei Shiqing watched from a distance, inwardly impressed by Pelletie’s determination. Later, Her Ladyship deliberately drew Mei Changyun into the garden, and Lord Shiyuan further enticed him by praising the "hero flowers" of the kapok tree, a plant he usually had no interest in, as a fitting subject for a hero like his father.
They led him to Mei Shiqing’s courtyard, where Mei Changyun discovered the newly constructed wall. Her Ladyship seized the opportunity to fan the flames of his anger, painting Mei Shiqing's actions as a complete disregard for his father’s authority. Enraged, Mei Changyun demanded a ladder and climbed over the wall, with Her Ladyship and Lord Shiyuan eagerly watching. Pelletie, who was on the wall assisting the workers, greeted Mei Changyun.
When Mei Changyun questioned who authorized the wall, Mei Shiqing took full responsibility, stating his desire for a separate living space with Lady Yingyao's agreement. Mei Changyun, frustrated, again ordered Lady Yingyao to move aside. Mei Shiqing reaffirmed that the wall was his idea and that his father could beat him as he pleased.
Overwhelmed by anger, Mei Changyun publicly slapped Mei Shiqing across the face, accusing him of only acknowledging him as a father by name, not by affection, for the past ten years. Xiao Wanziwas shocked by the violent act.
Episode 4 Recap
Mei Changyun sternly ordered Mei Shiqing to tear down the newly built wall, threatening to beat his unfilial son to death if he refused. Mei Shiqing defiantly stated he would not comply. Seeing Mei Changyun’s fury, Xiao Wanzi intervened, grabbing Mei Changyun's arm and urging Mei Shiqing to dismantle the wall to avoid further conflict. Despite her plea, Mei Shiqing remained stubborn. Enraged, Mei Changyun pushed Xiao Wanzi, causing her to stumble against the wall.
Unstable bricks began to fall, and Mei Shiqing instinctively rushed forward, shielding Xiao Wanzi with his body. He took the impact of a falling brick on his forehead. Later, as Siheng tended to Mei Shiqing’s wound, Xiao Wanzi thanked him, feeling remorseful for her past treatment. However, she still questioned how a blind man could react so quickly. Mei Shiqing explained that her "figure" and "noisy" nature made her impossible to miss, allowing him to perceive her movements.
He also stated he saved her to avoid complications with the Ninth Lord's household, not out of personal concern. Xiao Wanzi retorted that her thanks were merely out of courtesy, yet she declared her intent to repay his kindness. Mei Shiqing responded by telling her to shut up. When Mei Shiqing requested porridge, he challenged Xiao Wanzi to prepare it herself. Despite initially struggling in the kitchen, Xiao Wanzi, with Qiaoyun's help, managed to make a bowl.
Mei Shiqing then declared he was no longer hungry. Xiao Wanzi, recognizing his deliberate teasing, offered the porridge to Siheng and decided to assist Mei Shiqing with washing his feet, still harboring doubts about his blindness. That evening, during the foot-washing, Mei Shiqing exclaimed that the water was too hot and sent Xiao Wanzi away to fetch cold water. When she returned, he asked her to add more, and Xiao Wanzi then discovered the cold water jug was empty.
Xiao Wanzi found it puzzling how he knew the water was gone if he was truly blind. Meanwhile, Nan Batian shared drinks with Master Bao, inquiring about Lu Yingyao (referred to as Xiao Wanzi in their conversation) trying to escape. Master Bao denied it, stating they were merely playing a game. He then pressed Nan Batian about their wedding plans.
After feigning deep thought, Nan Batian proposed that Master Bao marry Nan Xiang, while he himself would take Lu Yingyao as his wife. Master Bao, seeing through Nan Batian’s intentions, fabricated a story about having already consummated his marriage with Lu Yingyao. Although initially angered by Master Bao's perceived haste, Nan Batian suggested they emulate the historical precedent of Emperor Tangming and Lady Yang, where a "transition" period was observed.
Master Bao pretended to agree, stating he would send Lu Yingyao to the guest room to freshen up before bringing her to Nan Batian's room. He immediately went to Lu Yingyao’s room to discuss a counter-strategy. Lu Yingyao recalled a wild herb called rock hyssop that would cause a terrifying full-body rash if applied to the skin. Master Bao vowed to find the herb for her, no matter the cost.
Xiao Wanzi confided in Qiaoyun, expressing her strong suspicion that Mei Shiqing might not be blind. She revealed her plan to test him by exploiting his known phobias: his extreme cleanliness and fear of spiders, information she had learned from Siheng. The next day, Xiao Wanzi presented a foul-smelling herbal remedy to Mei Shiqing. He "accidentally" knocked over a cup of water, dampening the herbs. Undeterred, Xiao Wanzi then produced a spider and placed it on Mei Shiqing’s arm.
Mei Shiqing, visibly struggling, suppressed his revulsion and maintained his blind facade until Xiao Wanzi left. Once alone, he visibly exhaled in relief. Xiao Wanzi later informed Qiaoyun and Qiuhua that Mei Shiqing indeed seemed to be blind, but she remained worried about her missing father, as Qiuhua had found no news of him or the true Lady Yingyao. Later, Her Ladyship visited Xiao Wanzi, bringing tonic for Mei Shiqing as a pretense to gain favor.
She gossiped about Mei Shiqing’s past, describing him as a "flirtatious and proud young man" who had eyes only for a songstress named Rou before his blindness, hoping to stir jealousy in Xiao Wanzi. However, Xiao Wanzi appeared indifferent. Her Ladyship then presented a valuable hairpin, which Xiao Wanzi happily accepted. After Her Ladyship departed, Mei Shiqing appeared and ordered Xiao Wanzi to discard the hairpin. Although Xiao Wanzi verbally agreed, she secretly hid it.
Her Ladyship, in a conversation with her servant, revealed her intention to butter up Xiao Wanzi and to glean more information about her. Mei Shiqing, aware of Her Ladyship’s manipulative nature, knew she was trying to curry favor with Xiao Wanzi. To further impress Xiao Wanzi, Her Ladyship arranged for the famous Qiankun Troupe to perform. During the performance, Xiao Wanzi watched with a heavy heart, thinking of her own father. The grand finale was the "breaking rock" act.
Mei Shiyuan attempted to smash the stone but failed. Impulsively, Xiao Wanzi rushed onto the stage, astonishing everyone by effortlessly wielding the heavy hammer and shattering the stone slab. Mei Shiyuan, his pride wounded, returned to his seat fuming. Observing Xiao Wanzi's unladylike, almost "Jianghu" behavior, Mei Shiqing grew suspicious of her true identity. Back in his study, Mei Shiqing subtly tested Xiao Wanzi further by asking her to read aloud. Xiao Wanzi feigned a sore throat.
Mei Shiqing then asked her to write a letter to his Mentor for his upcoming birthday. Xiao Wanzi initially resisted, citing the private nature of the task, but Mei Shiqing subtly challenged her literacy. Believing Mei Shiqing was truly blind, Xiao Wanzi confidently picked up the brush. As Mei Shiqing watched discreetly from behind, he saw her fill the paper not with the dictated message, but repeatedly with the words "Chest Crusher."
Panicked, Xiao Wanzi rushed to the kitchen, urgently asking Qiaoyun to write a proper letter to replace the one she had just written for Mei Shiqing before he sent it. Qiaoyun quickly left to write, instructing Xiao Wanzi to watch the soup she was preparing for Mei Shiqing. While Xiao Wanzi watched the pot, Xiao Ruan, Her Ladyship's servant, arrived with more "special medicine" tonics for Mei Shiqing.
Thinking they were beneficial, Xiao Wanzi added all of them to the simmering soup. When Qiaoyun returned with the new letter, Xiao Wanzi immediately took it along with the soup to Mei Shiqing. She managed to stealthily swap the letters, unaware that Mei Shiqing had observed her every move. Qiaoyun, discovering the empty tonic bottles, realized the grave mistake. She rushed to the study to warn Xiao Wanzi, but it was too late; Mei Shiqing had already raised the bowl of soup, preparing to drink it.
Episode 5 Recap
Xiao Wanzi quickly snatched the tonic from Mei Shiqing, who then offhandedly suggested it might be poisoned. To prove her innocence, Xiao Wanzi promptly drank the soup herself, immediately regretting it as she became visibly distressed and started vomiting uncontrollably. Mei Shiqing offered to find a doctor, but Xiao Wanzi, fearing exposure, insisted she was fine, claiming she had simply eaten too much in the previous days and needed to clear her stomach.
Observing her reaction, Mei Shiqing thought to himself that this "princess" was indeed suspicious. After Mei Shiqing and Siheng left, Qiaoyun revealed that Second Madam’s medicinal ingredients were old and past their expiration, rendering them unfit for consumption. Furious, Xiao Wanzi confronted Second Madam, who cunningly deflected by feigning ignorance and blaming her servant for mixing up the tonics with items to be discarded.
Xiao Wanzi, undeterred, accused Second Madam of trying to poison Mei Shiqing, pointing out that everyone in the manor knew of their animosity. Second Madam, however, twisted the situation, threatening that if the truth came out, Xiao Wanzi would be implicated in conspiring to murder her husband, implying that her acceptance of Second Madam's gifts made her complicit. Mei Shiqing, who had been listening to their exchange nearby, sighed subtly.
Despite her reluctance, Xiao Wanzi instructed Qiaoyun to return the golden hairpin, a gift from Second Madam, as Mei Shiqing had previously warned her not to accept anything from Second Madam. Mei Shiqing then confronted Xiao Wanzi, reiterating his warning to stay away from Second Madam. Xiao Wanzi, still seething at his perceived ingratitude, inadvertently revealed she had drunk the soup to protect him during their argument.
Mei Shiqing pressed her on why she drank it if she knew it was problematic, to which she defiantly stated that saving him was the only thing that mattered. Later, Xiao Wanzi vented her frustrations to Qiaoyun, calling Mei Shiqing a "blind idiot" who was undeserving of a wife. Qiaoyun gently reminded her that she had committed to maintaining the "princess'" marriage, especially with the promise of a monthly salary.
Motivated by the money, Xiao Wanzi vowed to earn Mei Shiqing's trust. Meanwhile, Mei Shiqing, in a conversation with Siheng, expressed his growing suspicion about Xiao Wanzi's true identity, noting the real princess's renowned scholarship contrasted sharply with Xiao Wanzi's apparent illiteracy. Xiao Wanzi prepared a bowl of soup for Mei Shiqing, hoping to win him over. Mei Shiqing, however, saw it as an opportunity to test her.
He asked her to revise a letter she supposedly wrote to his mentor. Knowing she couldn't write, Qiaoyun quickly signaled Xiao Wanzi to feign dizziness, allowing her to escape the trap. Mei Shiqing, still unconvinced, instructed Qiaoyun to take Xiao Wanzi to rest, then privately reaffirmed his doubts to Siheng. Convinced that Mei Shiqing was onto her, Xiao Wanzi decided her best course of action was to flee the Mei Mansion.
She mentally apologized to Qiaoyun and Qiuhua, promising to return for them once she found her father. She deftly navigated the patrol routes of the guards and managed to open a small exit. However, Qiaoyun was waiting there, having anticipated Xiao Wanzi's escape attempt and guarding the door every night. Xiao Wanzi quickly improvised, claiming she was merely hungry and wanted Qiaoyun to make her some noodles.
Frustrated by her failed escape, Xiao Wanzi returned to her room and angrily hit the bed, accidentally triggering a secret mechanism that revealed a hidden passage. Curiosity piqued, she ventured into the tunnel, speculating that Mei Shiqing used it for secret rendezvous with a lover. Following the passage, she eventually found herself outside the Mei Mansion, finally free. Elsewhere, Rou and Siheng interrogated Lai Ba, a local informant, about the assassins involved in a past incident.
From behind a screen, Mei Shiqing offered Lai Ba money. Under the lure of silver, Lai Ba disclosed that ten years prior, he was hired by an unknown person to find two assassins: Crazy Chen and another individual who had since abandoned his criminal past and now ran a pawnshop in Bluestone Lane in the city's west. Later, Mei Shiqing, disguised as Lord Nocturnal-elf, confronted Yan, the pawnshop owner, at his shop.
Yan immediately drew his sword, recognizing Mei Shiqing's hostile intent. Passing by, Xiao Wanzi recognized her idol, Lord Nocturnal-elf, and, without thinking, grabbed a wooden stick to aid him, only to be promptly kicked away by Yan. Lord Nocturnal-elf leaped to catch her, inadvertently allowing Yan to escape. Feigning injury, Xiao Wanzi convinced Lord Nocturnal-elf to escort her home, providing him an opportunity to further investigate her identity.
Meanwhile, Lu Yingyao seized an opportunity to escape her confinement while the guards were sleeping. Xiaobao discovered her absence and frantically pursued her. He eventually caught up to her in the woods, pleading with her to return. Lu Yingyao refused, backing away from him, and accidentally stumbled down a cliff. Xiaobao desperately tried to save her, but they both lost their footing and tumbled down the slope together. Lord Nocturnal-elf brought Xiao Wanzi to a secluded spot.
After she mentioned having no home, he invited her to share some wine and sweet and sour ribs. Under the influence of alcohol, Xiao Wanzi grew bolder and expressed her deep admiration for Lord Nocturnal-elf, whom she had idolized since childhood. She boasted about her "rock-breaking on chest" skill, explaining how her father, unable to support her prodigious appetite, taught her street performing to earn her keep.
She then candidly recounted her recent ordeal: how her gambling father sold her to a bandit leader, leading to her accidental swap with the real princess, and her subsequent forced marriage into the Mei Mansion. She admitted that she stayed there because the maids and guards begged her, fearing execution if the real princess went missing, and she couldn't bear to see others in distress. Lord Nocturnal-elf then subtly asked for her impression of "Mei Shiqing."
Xiao Wanzi, unreservedly, called him a heartless, tasteless, irrational "jerk," though she reluctantly admitted he occasionally showed her "a tiny bit" of care. Overcome with sadness, she started crying, lamenting her missing father, He Yizhi. Moved by her tears, Mei Shiqing promised to help her find him. He took her flying through the night sky, and Xiao Wanzi, watching his profile, felt her heart flutter with affection for her idol. As dawn approached, a joyful Xiao Wanzi prepared to return to the Mei Mansion, bidding farewell to Lord Nocturnal-elf, but he stopped her before she could leave.
Episode 6 Recap
Mei Shiqing called out to Xiao Wanzi and placed his black cloak over her shoulders, declaring, "It's yours now," as a gift. Xiao Wanzi, overwhelmed, felt her heart pound as she bid him farewell. Lu Yingyao awoke to find herself in Bao's embrace. While grateful, she expressed a strong desire for freedom, lamenting, "But I really want to leave here."
Bao, holding her tightly, stated that his heart would be broken if she left, and ironically added, "Your subordinates will come to save you." Lu Yingyao, defiant, stated, "Don't think you saved me, then you can do whatever you want," and threatened to die if he dared to touch her. Bao quickly softened, promising not to harm her if she would return to the mountain stronghold with him.
Lu Yingyao explained her deep aversion to marrying Nan Batian, describing him as "that old and ugly jerk." Bao, an experienced man, assured her he would protect her. Lu Yingyao then attempted to sway Bao with a fantasy of a secluded paradise where they could live happily and raise many children. Bao, recognizing her sweet words, was momentarily charmed before seeing through her trick, recalling his godfather's saying, "a woman's mouth is a deceiving ghost."
He then forcibly carried her back to the mountain stronghold. Observing this, Nan Batian worriedly noted, "This is not good. Even if this little girl doesn't run away herself, she'll eventually be snatched away by that boy. I need to do something." Back in her room, Lu Yingyao, still unhappy, expressed, "I really hate you." Bao then presented her with herbal ingredients, which she believed would deter Nan Batian from approaching her, filling her with a sense of relief.
At Mei Manor, Xiao Wanzi was seen clutching Lord Nocturnal-elf's cloak, admiring it and claiming to still smell his scent. Servants gossiped about her holding a man's cloak that wasn't Mei Shiqing's. Mei Shiqing, amused, playfully challenged her idolization, calling Lord Nocturnal-elf "a liar who deceives ignorant girls like you," which angered Xiao Wanzi, who retorted, "But you cannot insult my idol." Soon after, Mei Shiqing's friends, Fang Wenhuai and his sister Fang Yuhan, arrived from the capital.
Siheng informed Mei Shiqing of their presence, causing the servants to worry about Xiao Wanzi's true identity being exposed, as the Fang siblings might have met the real princess before. Mei Shiqing greeted his guests, and Fang Wenhuai apologized for missing his wedding. When asked about his wife, Mei Shiqing claimed the princess was unwell and unable to meet guests.
However, Fang Yuhan, insisting she was an old acquaintance from the Ninth Lord's birthday party, demanded to see her to "have a chat" and check on her health. Back in her room, Xiao Wanzi, advised by Qiaoyun, quickly feigned illness. Mei Shiqing led the Fang siblings to her room. Xiao Wanzi, under the covers, claimed to be too unwell to receive them. Mei Shiqing subtly helped Xiao Wanzi change the topic.
Fang Yuhan persisted, eventually pulling back the covers, but only remarked that the princess had "changed a lot" and looked "much prettier than a decade ago," failing to recognize Xiao Wanzi, as their last encounter was when she was a child, over a decade ago. Fang Yuhan then suggested they eat together and reminisce, but Xiao Wanzi declined, maintaining her sick act. The Second Madam then arrived, greeting the Fang siblings warmly and offering her hospitality.
Mei Shiqing, however, curtly intervened, asserting he would personally manage his guests, privately labeling the Second Madam as a "hypocrite." After the Second Madam left, Mei Shiqing, seeing through Xiao Wanzi's feigned illness, ordered her to get up and prepare for the banquet, reminding her the guests had come specifically to see her. Xiao Wanzi reluctantly complied.
At the initial banquet, Mei Shiqing, for the benefit of his guests, showed affection towards Xiao Wanzi, remarking that the soup was "tasteless since I'm used to yours," prompting a surprised comment from Qiaoyun, "You ice cube actually knows how to cherish women now." Fang Yuhan then suggested Xiao Wanzi join her in the courtyard to admire the flowers.
Once alone, Fang Yuhan deliberately recounted her past connection with Mei Shiqing, claiming they had a deep bond and that her family had wished for their marriage, until the princess arrived. Fang Yuhan then wished them a harmonious marriage. Feeling a pang of guilt, Xiao Wanzi immediately returned to scold Mei Shiqing. Mei Shiqing, however, was genuinely unaware, stating he had no feelings for Fang Yuhan, who had been "pestering" him.
To resolve the situation, Mei Shiqing proposed that they must pretend to be a loving couple to make Fang Yuhan give up on him. Xiao Wanzi, annoyed by Mei Shiqing's comment about her temper, begrudgingly agreed to act as an affectionate wife. Nan Batian entered Lu Yingyao's room, locking the door and instructing his guard outside not to interfere.
He approached Lu Yingyao, professing his deep infatuation and how much he had missed her, promising a life of luxury if she became his wife. Lu Yingyao defiantly refused. Nan Batian insisted, asserting she had no choice, but as he lunged towards her, he was horrified to see her face covered in angry red rashes. He recoiled, crying "A ghost!" and questioning her appearance. Lu Yingyao calmly explained it was a contagious skin disease.
Terrified, Nan Batian pleaded with her not to come closer, telling her to "be a decent girl," and fled the room, shouting for the door to be opened. Outside, Bao observed Nan Batian's panicked escape, impressed by Lu Yingyao's clever ruse. He acknowledged the effectiveness of the herb but noted it was only temporary.
Lu Yingyao added that her rashes would take a couple of days to clear, emphasizing the need to keep the herb ready for future use, and complained that "you stinky men are of the same kind; you are all fond of pretty girls." Bao, slightly offended, countered that he was different, saying, "What I like is your inner self," and began to make an intimate advance.
Lu Yingyao immediately threatened to kill herself if he didn't leave, prompting Bao to sigh and depart. Rou reported to Mei Shiqing that Manager Yan was nowhere to be found in Qingzhou city, with no traces at any crossing. Mei Shiqing, convinced that "a person can't just vanish into thin air," meticulously examined the pawnshop's account books, discovering they contained records of goods stolen by bandits.
He concluded, "This pawnshop is the bandits' hideout" and predicted Manager Yan "can't hide forever." Rou confirmed she would "send people to investigate this person's connection with Green Dragon Stockade," to which Mei Shiqing cautioned her to "be careful." At the Mei family dinner, Mei Shiqing's father warmly welcomed Fang Wenhuai and Fang Yuhan, urging them to feel at home.
Shiyuan, Mei Shiqing's younger brother, openly flirted with Fang Yuhan, reciting poetry and claiming a fated connection, which embarrassed her and led to the father's intervention. Fang Yuhan, seeing Xiao Wanzi feeding Mei Shiqing, was annoyed and made some resentful comments. Mei Shiqing then grabbed Xiao Wanzi's hand, displaying their affection, and publicly declared to Fang Yuhan that he didn't want Xiao Wanzi "to have grievance." He further stated, "I am very happy with her.
But I can't stand your arrogant, self-centered young lady's temper. Besides, I never liked you." Mei Shiqing's father quickly diffused the tension, affirming the happy marriage between Mei Shiqing and the princess and urging everyone to enjoy the meal. Feeling shamed, Fang Wenhuai promptly apologized to Mei Shiqing for their hasty visit and his sister's conduct, explaining that "Yuhan's still young" and asking for understanding. Mei Shiqing wished them a safe journey and a speedy recovery for his eyes.
The Fang siblings then departed Mei Manor that very night, with Mei Shiqing's father extending a polite invitation for their return. After seeing off the Fang siblings, Mei Shiqing returned to find Xiao Wanzi deeply intoxicated and asleep in his bed. Qiaoyun explained that "the princess was too happy today, couldn't hold her liquor," pleading with Mei Shiqing not to blame her. Mei Shiqing dismissed the servants, stating he would "look after her."
Later, unable to rouse Xiao Wanzi from his bed, Mei Shiqing decided to sleep on the floor. Finding sleep elusive, he rose in the middle of the night to take a bath. Meanwhile, a still-drunk Xiao Wanzi woke up disoriented, looking for water. She stumbled into the bathing room and, confused, reached for Mei Shiqing's bathwater. Mei Shiqing quickly intervened, preventing her from falling into the tub.
As he caught her, Xiao Wanzi fell into his arms, her hands instinctively wrapping around his waist. Having accidentally seen her changing earlier that day, Mei Shiqing had been flustered. Now, with her close, his heart raced anew, and he tenderly kissed her forehead. Unaware of her surroundings, Xiao Wanzi mumbled about him being "well-built and pretty," but criticized his "temper so bad."
Episode 7 Recap
As soon as Xiao Wanzi opened her eyes, she found Mei Shiqing’s lips inches away, realizing he had been pretending to be blind. Accusing him of being a "liar" and a "shameless and indecent man," she pushed him into a bathing tub, recounting her misery having to serve him, cook for him, comb his hair, dress him, and assist him everywhere. Mei Shiqing tried to explain that things were not as she perceived, but Xiao Wanzi refused to listen.
To compensate her, he offered silver, gold, and jewelry, which Xiao Wanzi eagerly accepted, thinking of her father. She added another demand: he must now serve her in all the ways she had served him. When she challenged him to reveal his blindness, Mei Shiqing retaliated by exposing her true identity as a fake Princess. Fearing the consequences for her innocent friends, Qiaoyun and Qiuhua, Xiao Wanzi immediately confessed everything.
She revealed her name, Xiao Wanzi, and her father, He Yizhi, explaining that her father's gambling debts led to her being sold to Dragon Stockade as a bride. She recounted how she met the real Lu Yingyao at Ruyi Tower, and their mix-up led to her impersonating the Princess. Mei Shiqing, realizing she wasn't lying, did not pursue the matter further, but warned her about the severe crime of impersonating royalty.
Xiao Wanzi begged him to spare Qiaoyun and Qiuhua, swearing to atone for her mistakes, which Mei Shiqing agreed to consider, then declared he was sleepy and asked her to make his bed. The next morning, at breakfast, Xiao Wanzi acted unusually attentive and submissive towards Mei Shiqing, taking over serving him from Siheng.
She even claimed she "tossed about all night" and didn't sleep until dawn, leading Qiaoyun to mistakenly believe that she and Mei Shiqing had consummated their marriage. After Qiaoyun and Siheng left, Mei Shiqing proposed that Xiao Wanzi continue to act as the Princess until their current predicament was resolved. Xiao Wanzi reluctantly agreed, fearing being sent to the Yamen, but initially protested that it was merely delaying her inevitable execution.
However, when Mei Shiqing offered "other solutions," she quickly became "deeply satisfied" and profusely thanked him, swearing she would not regret her decision. To ensure her commitment, Mei Shiqing made her sign a contract, which Xiao Wanzi, unable to read, signed after a brief glance, suspecting it might be an indenture. He also strictly warned her not to reveal his feigned blindness or her fake identity to anyone, especially Qiaoyun and Qiuhua.
Despite signing, Xiao Wanzi, still not full, immediately put on airs and demanded Mei Shiqing serve her porridge, which he did. Later, as Xiao Wanzi contemplated escaping, Qiaoyun and Qiuhua dragged her into a room, eagerly questioning her about her "intimate" night with Mei Shiqing, based on her earlier remarks and submissive behavior.
Unable to reveal that Mei Shiqing knew her secret, Xiao Wanzi concocted a lie, claiming that Siheng had told on her for having ugly handwriting, forcing her to practice calligraphy all night. Qiaoyun and Qiuhua, though somewhat convinced, still pressed her, to which Xiao Wanzi dramatically swore an oath that she was telling the truth, finally convincing them. Changing the subject, Xiao Wanzi pressed Qiuhua about her search for the Princess.
Qiuhua admitted her difficulty finding the Princess due to unfamiliarity with Qingzhou City and even mentioned losing money. Xiao Wanzi then suggested they seek out Lai Laoba, a local beggar known for knowing everyone in Qingzhou City, advising them to look for a shabby, drunk, and crazy man with a stick and a broken bowl, often found at Dongfeng Winery. Meanwhile, Siheng, following Xiao Wanzi's earlier instructions, sought out Lai Laoba to track down He Yizhi.
He encountered a man matching Xiao Wanzi's description – dirty, drunk, and with a staff. Believing him to be Lai Laoba, Siheng approached, only to realize this man, who knew of Xiao Wanzi's fondness for meatballs, was He Yizhi himself. He Yizhi, having previously been accosted by Qiuhua and mistaking Siheng for a debt collector from the gambling house who he believed had kidnapped Xiao Wanzi, fled into the forest.
He later encountered Young Master Bao and his men, who were suspicious of his inquiries about Dragon Stockade. Upon hearing He Yizhi's story about his daughter, Xiao Wanzi, being taken to Dragon Stockade to marry "Young Master Bao," Young Master Bao immediately realized He Yizhi was his father-in-law and welcomed him warmly into the stockade. Young Master Bao led He Yizhi to Lu Yingyao's room, expecting to reunite him with Xiao Wanzi.
He Yizhi was astonished to see Lu Yingyao instead of his daughter. Lu Yingyao, also surprised, quickly exchanged a secret glance with him, and they feigned a tearful father-daughter reunion for Young Master Bao. After Young Master Bao left to prepare food, they spoke privately.
Lu Yingyao explained her identity as the Princess of Ninth Lord's Mansion and how she was mistakenly married into Dragon Stockade after an incident at Ruyi Tower involving Xiao Wanzi, who was now at Mei's Palace. He Yizhi then realized the "tall, slim, white-skinned person with a sword" he had rebuffed earlier was indeed Qiuhua, sent by Xiao Wanzi.
Lu Yingyao implored him to inform Qiuhua and send help from Mei's Palace to rescue her, to which He Yizhi readily agreed, promising to head to Mei's Palace once he left the mountain. He Yizhi then inquired about Xiao Wanzi, describing her with her two topknots, and Lu Yingyao fondly assured him Xiao Wanzi was "cute" and "runs so fast."
Worried about her father and yearning for freedom, Xiao Wanzi saw Siheng about to take Mei Shiqing's ill-fitting clothes to a tailor. Seizing the chance to leave Mei's Palace, she used a grand tale of wanting to customize a unique, romantic garment for Mei Shiqing, embroidered with "Qing" and "Yao," to convince a hesitant Siheng to let her take the clothes.
Once outside, she quickly made her way to the gambling house in search of her father, but only encountered staff who demanded payment for her father's five-cent debt, which she quickly evaded, having no money. As dusk fell and Xiao Wanzi had not returned, a frantic Siheng confessed her absence to Mei Shiqing, explaining her "romantic" ruse. Mei Shiqing, angered by her disappearance, ordered Siheng to guard the gates, preventing anyone from entering.
Lost and without money for lodging, Xiao Wanzi wandered the streets at night, feeling vulnerable. She then stumbled upon Night Spirit Hero. Initially mistaking him for a robber, she pleaded for him to spare her, claiming to be ugly and penniless. Upon recognizing him, she expressed relief but also mentioned she had feared he was a "pervert" attempting to assault her. Night Spirit Hero suggested she was overthinking.
Xiao Wanzi, now comfortable, insisted he call her "Xiao Wanzi" as they had "drunk together and talked heart to heart." She then proposed they become "two heroes of the night" and travel the world, to which Night Spirit Hero agreed, on the condition she be "true to her word." Despite her initial promise, Xiao Wanzi lamented that Mei Shiqing was "too hard to get along well with," making her want to break the agreement.
However, she quickly decided to endure his "cold face" for Night Spirit Hero's sake. Night Spirit Hero then probed her opinion of Mei Shiqing, mentioning his reputation as a "great fighter" who protects Qingzhou people. Xiao Wanzi jokingly called him "pickles" that could be eaten with porridge, but then admitted he was "not bad looking" and his body was "fine," though "no good compared to" Night Spirit Hero.
She concluded that Mei Shiqing's main flaw was his inability to express his feelings, making him seem "like an iceberg." Having confided in him, Xiao Wanzi bid Night Spirit Hero farewell, stating she would return to Mei's Palace to uphold her contract. After Night Spirit Hero departed, Xiao Wanzi reaffirmed her decision not to escape, realizing she couldn't abandon Qiaoyun and Qiuhua, and acknowledging Mei Shiqing's past kindness despite his flaws.
She dismissed Night Spirit Hero's offer to walk her home, fearing gossip if she was seen with a strange man, and then complained he was "not very protective of a girl" when he took her at her word. Back at Mei's Palace, Qiaoyun attempted to enter the Princess's room to help her wash, but Siheng, under Mei Shiqing's strict orders, blocked her. Qiaoyun's persistent questions and playful charm eventually led Mei Shiqing, from inside the room, to permit her entry.
Just as Qiaoyun entered, Xiao Wanzi rushed in. Mei Shiqing, feigning ignorance of her escape, chided her for being late, threatening to send the army of Mei's Palace to find her. Xiao Wanzi quickly invented a story about getting lost in the large city. She then took the washbasin from Qiaoyun, dismissing her. Secretly bracing herself for punishment, Xiao Wanzi was surprised when Mei Shiqing, after a moment of hesitation, simply thanked her for returning, making her wonder if he was ill.
Episode 8 Recap
Xiao Wanzireturned, prompting Mei Shiqing to thank her, which confused her and made her think he was ill. She then started begging him not to report her to the Yamen, promising to stay put. Mei Shiqing clarified he had no such intention. When Xiao Wanzioffered to help him, he declined, reminding her she was his contractual wife, not a maid.
He then suggested she should perform "wife duties" by practicing calligraphy, explaining that she needed to learn to write to avoid being discovered by others in the Mei mansion. Xiao Wanziinitially resisted, stating she couldn't write, but eventually agreed to start practicing the next day. He Yizhi discussed with Lady Yingyao his desire to leave the stockade, believing Bao was amenable. Lady Yingyao warned him it wasn't easy to escape Dragon Stockade.
Bao then appeared with wine, and Uncle He seized the opportunity to state his intention to leave, citing that he'd seen his daughter was safe. Bao, however, informed him of the stockade's strict "no exit" rule. Uncle He tried another tactic, claiming he needed to go down the mountain to buy dowry for Pelletie. When Bao offered to have his men rob the items, Uncle He refused, saying it would be inauspicious.
Bao grew suspicious, but Lady Yingyao quickly intervened, suggesting Uncle He was simply restless and "needs fun" while stuck in the mountains. Misinterpreting this as a desire for entertainment within the stockade, Bao eagerly rounded up his men for a gambling and card-playing session with Uncle He. Uncle He, known for his unscrupulous ways, cheated at cards and was caught by Bao.
Despite Bao's initial leniency due to Uncle He being his future father-in-law, Uncle He's antics soon became too much. Fearing his stockade would be ruined, Bao abruptly ended the game, much to Uncle He's dismay, who was "just having fun." Mei Shiqing rigorously supervised Pelletie's calligraphy practice, scolding her for being a "lazybones" and holding the brush like a "pig foot." After two hours, a frustrated Xiao Wanzisilently called him a "Jerk."
When dinner was announced, Mei Shiqing declared that Xiao Wanzicouldn't eat until her writing was acceptable and instructed Qiaoyun to save her a portion, adding that he would have Siheng inspect her work later, threatening punishment for anyone who gave her food. Qiaoyun confirmed she had only given Xiao Wanzia cloak, not food. Later, Mei Shiqing found Xiao Wanziwearing the black cloak, the same one given to her by Lord Nocturnal-elf.
She openly admired Lord Nocturnal-elf, imagining him waiting for her to "venture in Jianghu," claiming the cloak gave her strength. Mei Shiqing, unaware that he himself was Lord Nocturnal-elf, became visibly jealous. He accused her of doing this "for a man" and questioned the propriety of her wearing another man's clothes as his "contractual wife." Xiao Wanziretorted that their relationship was fake, while her connection to Lord Nocturnal-elf was real.
She praised Lord Nocturnal-elf as "righteous and forthright," "gentle, sweet and thoughtful," and "way better than" Mei Shiqing, whom she labeled "bossy, rude, selfish and apathetic." Mei Shiqing grew angrier, sarcastically telling her to find her "sweetheart." Xiao Wanzistormed out, declaring that any man outside the Mei mansion would be better than him. Siheng tried to calm Mei Shiqing, reminding him he'd have to find her if she ran away again, but Mei Shiqing insisted he wouldn't.
He was left alone, wondering why he was so angry. Lady Yingyao inquired about Uncle He, who, following her advice to appear as if he wanted to stay, had been gambling excessively in the stockade. Bao expressed his alarm at Uncle He's gambling and how he had started forcing the men to practice "break rock." To divert him, Bao reluctantly took Uncle He to the wine cellar.
There, Uncle He attempted to urinate into Dad Batian's prized vintage liquor, a special brew said to spiritually protect the stockade. A horrified Bao stopped him just in time and, fearing his stepfather's wrath and the ruin of the stockade, decided he had to send Uncle He down the mountain. As Uncle He was being escorted away, Lady Yingyao, feigning sadness, secretly slipped a letter into his clothes, pleading with him to "save me."
Bao then lied to Dad Batian, claiming Uncle He had left to buy supplies and would return in a few days. Dad Batian, observing Lady Yingyao's face had cleared, grew eager to proceed with their wedding, suggesting they could marry first and consummate later. Lady Yingyao quickly revealed a rash on her arm, insisting her whole body was still afflicted.
Bao intervened, explaining that girls desired to look their best for their wedding, successfully persuading Dad Batian to delay until Lady Yingyao fully recovered, promising a grand wedding. Lady Yingyao mentally reiterated her plea for Uncle He's swift return. Meanwhile, a disheartened Xiao Wanziwandered through Qing. Situ Lin, President of Qing's Chamber of Commerce, spotted her. He felt a sense of familiarity, recalling a girl from his childhood who looked just like her.
As a horse-drawn carriage rushed towards Pelletie, Situ Lin swiftly pulled her to safety. Xiao Wanzithanked him profusely. Situ Lin apologized for the sudden contact due to the urgency and offered to treat her to dinner as an apology. Waking up in Qing, Uncle He was informed he had been "sent away" from the stockade by Bao. He quickly rushed to the Mei mansion with Lady Yingyao's letter. There, he met Qiuhua and Qiaoyun, who recognized Lady Yingyao's handwriting.
Qiuhua demanded to know where Xiao Wanziwas, but Uncle He refused to disclose Lady Yingyao's whereabouts unless he saw Xiao Wanzifirst. Qiaoyun grew impatient, but Uncle He remained firm, bragging about his decades of experience in Jianghu. After a brief standoff and fearing discovery, Uncle He gave Qiuhua a message for Pelletie: to meet him at their old rendezvous point. Qiaoyun muttered about the "old crook" as Uncle He departed.
As night fell, Mei Shiqing, growing increasingly worried about Pelletie, disguised himself as Lord Nocturnal-elf. He discovered her at a snack booth, happily chatting and eating with Situ Lin. Seeing their lively conversation, Mei Shiqing clenched his fists in jealousy. As their meal concluded, Situ Lin gave Xiao Wanzia token bearing the mark of Qing's Chamber of Commerce, assuring her he would offer his full support if she ever needed help. After Situ Lin's carriage departed, Lord Nocturnal-elf approached Pelletie.
He snatched away Situ Lin's token and replaced it with a red string on her wrist, claiming it as their personal symbol. When Xiao Wanziasked how she would find him, he replied that he would appear whenever she needed him. Xiao Wanzifelt a newfound sense of security and unconsciously smiled radiantly, softening Mei Shiqing's heart as he watched her.
Back in the mansion, Qiuhua informed Xiao Wanzithat her father, Uncle He, was looking for her and wanted to meet at their old spot. This news reignited Pelletie's desire to escape. Mei Shiqing, however, confronted her, chiding her for eating at a "cheap snack booth" and wearing a "crummy bracelet" from another man. Xiao Wanzichallenged his authority, accusing him of stalking her and threatening to expose his fake blindness if he tried to imprison her.
This prompted Qiaoyun to advise Xiao Wanziagainst angering Mei Shiqing further, suggesting Lord Nocturnal-elf couldn't help them in daylight. Together, Xiao Wanziand Qiaoyun decided to sneak out. The next morning, as they attempted their escape, they found Mei Shiqing already waiting for them, blocking their path. Xiao Wanzitried to make an excuse about visiting a nunnery, but Siheng, at Mei Shiqing's request, confirmed no such temple existed.
Qiaoyun then quickly suggested a trip to Abundant Store for new cosmetics, only for Mei Shiqing to counter by offering to have the store's latest selection brought directly to the mansion, effectively preventing their departure. Defeated, Xiao Wanzisoftened her tone and begged Mei Shiqing to release her, admitting she had been "bewitched lately" and spoken aggressively. Mei Shiqing then hinted that a way out might be possible, but only if she agreed to his terms.
Episode 9 Recap
Mei Shiqing told Xiao Wanzi that she could leave Mei Mansion as soon as she learned to write three characters. He then wrote his own name, "Mei Shiqing," which Xiao Wanzi found much more difficult than the characters she had practiced previously. She expressed frustration, feeling she would never be able to leave. Mei Shiqing insisted that she must learn his name if she wished to leave.
Seeing her struggle, Mei Shiqing offered a "quick way" to learn, and when she begged him to teach her, he embraced her from behind, guiding her hand as she wrote. The intimate proximity caused both their hearts to race, but their moment was interrupted by Siheng, who announced Qiaoyun had brought tea. Mei Shiqing, visibly flustered, asked Siheng to accompany him for a walk.
Xiao Wanzi later confided in Qiaoyun that she suspected Mei Shiqing was "setting her up," though she didn't elaborate. Qiaoyun worried Mei Shiqing might have discovered something due to his attempts to separate them, but Xiao Wanzi insisted he was merely trying to humiliate her handwriting. Xiao Wanzi continued to practice diligently, even skipping meals, driven by her desire to see her father.
Mei Shiqing tried to get her to rest, but she refused, stating she would only be able to see her father once she had angered him enough to let her go. He asked why she was so eager to leave, and she declared, "I have someone special I want to see."
Misinterpreting this as a desire to meet Situ Ling, Mei Shiqing angrily forbade her from leaving, leading to a heated argument where she called him "insane" and told him to leave. Furious, Mei Shiqing went to practice swordsmanship with Siheng. When he returned, Xiao Wanzi was gone, leaving behind distorted renditions of his name scrawled all over the room, which he angrily looked at. Mei Shiqing then had his carriage taken to the chamber of commerce with Siheng.
Siheng reported that Situ Ling had been at the chamber all day, receiving merchants, and had not met with "Lady Yingyao." Siheng, who had discovered Xiao Wanzi's true identity, promised Mei Shiqing to keep it a secret. Meanwhile, Xiao Wanzi met her father, He Yizhi, at the agreed location, where she was relieved to find him safe. He Yizhi, however, was anxious, informing Xiao Wanzi that she and the true Princess Lu Yingyao had been "wrongly married."
While Xiao Wanzi was in Mei Mansion, the princess was now in the perilous Dragon Stockade, facing "a severe matter." He Yizhi suggested they escape, but Xiao Wanzi refused, unwilling to abandon Qiaoyun and Qiuhua and risk their families being condemned. Seeing her resolve, He Yizhi agreed to stay and help. Qiaoyun, upon learning the princess was at Dragon Stockade, blamed herself and broke into tears.
He Yizhi quickly reassured her, explaining that Lu Yingyao was "very smart" and had cleverly used an herbal paste to cover her face with pimples, making herself appear "even worse" than him, effectively deterring the bandits. Xiao Wanzi proposed revealing the truth to Mei Shiqing and having him lead troops to attack the stockade, but Qiaoyun vehemently opposed this.
She reminded Xiao Wanzi that Mei Shiqing had always been reluctant to marry the princess, and exposing the fake princess's identity would be "deceiving the emperor," a crime punishable by death. They concluded that the fewer people who knew, the better, and resolved that only Xiao Wanzi, He Yizhi, Qiaoyun, and Qiuhua should be involved in the rescue. He Yizhi, however, cautioned that Dragon Stockade was "an incredibly dangerous place" and they would need a more carefully considered plan.
At Dragon Stockade, Nan Batian angrily questioned Master Bao about his pawnshop's failure to send money up the mountain, attributing it to attacks by Lord Nocturnal-elf that had left his men terrified. He further chastised Master Bao and Wu for their constant infighting, warning that their disunity would weaken the stockade. Nan Xiang tried to console Master Bao, subtly suggesting that Nan Batian's anger might not entirely stem from the pawnshop.
She proposed a solution: Master Bao should offer "the rock-breaker" (Lu Yingyao, as she was known by then) to Nan Batian and then marry Nan Xiang herself. Master Bao was angered by Nan Xiang's suggestion and overheard his brothers discussing the recent marriage of Mei Shiqing to the princess, wondering who was more beautiful between her and Xiao Wanzi.
Seething with rage, Master Bao impulsively declared he would kidnap the princess and "bring her back to present her to Dad Batian," with his brothers commenting that it would be a "double wedding at Dragon Stockade" if he succeeded. Privately, Master Bao intended this act to divert Nan Batian's attention from Xiao Wanzi and to exact revenge on Mei Shiqing for a previous ambush.
Later that night, Xiao Wanzi continued to practice calligraphy, finding Mei Shiqing's name frustratingly difficult to write. She briefly rested, but Mei Shiqing, seeing her dozing, showed no pity. Instead, he employed an ancient method, tying her hair to a rafter to keep her head elevated and prevent her from falling asleep. Xiao Wanzi was outraged, calling his methods "too cruel" and "inhuman," begging him to stop, but he insisted she would be released only when her writing improved.
She threw her pen in defiance, threatening to "tear the house down" as he left. Meanwhile, Master Bao infiltrated Mei Mansion. Upon seeing the "princess" (who was actually Xiao Wanzi), he noted her "average figure," considering her less beautiful than "his Xiao Wanzi," before tranquilizing her. Just as he was about to carry her away, Mei Shiqing appeared, confronting the "bandit" and demanding his purpose. As they fought in the garden, Xiao Wanzi regained consciousness and witnessed the confrontation.
Mei Shiyuan and Mei Changyun arrived with guards, and Mei Shiyuan exclaimed that Mei Shiqing was not blind after all. Mei Changyun, furious at his son's deception, ordered Master Bao arrested and, ignoring Mei Shiyuan's attempts to explain, had Mei Shiqing also thrown into prison as a "rebellious son." Back in her room, Qiaoyun questioned Xiao Wanzi, asking if she had known about Mei Shiqing's feigned blindness.
Xiao Wanzi confessed, revealing her contract with Mei Shiqing: he would not expose her as the fake princess if she kept his secret. She noted he had honored their agreement. Qiaoyun realized that Mei Mansion likely wished to keep the princess's disappearance a secret, which explained Mei Shiqing's cooperation. They agreed their "first priority" was to rescue the true princess.
Qiaoyun proposed a plan: since Master Bao was Nan Batian's adopted son and Third Master of Dragon Stockade, they could rescue him and exchange him for Lu Yingyao. Xiao Wanzi agreed to use her false identity as Lady Yingyao to enter the prison and gather information the next day, planning to "secretly take Master Bao out." The next day, Xiao Wanzi visited Mei Shiqing in his prison cell to thank him for saving her.
He then asked if she had learned to write his name. When she affirmed she had, he expressed disbelief, prompting her to write "Mei Shiqing" on his palm. Impressed by her progress, Mei Shiqing smiled, gazing at her. Mei Shiyuan, witnessing their exchange, commented that they were "quite romantic" for "flirting in the prison," yet he expressed sympathy for Mei Shiqing, noting his father's cruelty.
Mei Shiyuan reminded Mei Shiqing to reflect on his actions, then ushered Xiao Wanzi out, telling her she had visited long enough. As she left, Xiao Wanzi jokingly admitted, "You said I was a big liar in the contract. That's true." Xiao Wanzi then went to the interrogation room to question Master Bao, demanding to know why he had invaded Mei Mansion and kidnapped her. Master Bao, finding the "princess" "too ordinary," decided to "just tease her."
He leaned in to whisper something, then openly mocked her appearance and figure, suggesting she join him at the stockade. Enraged, Xiao Wanzi nearly attacked him, but Mei Shiyuan intervened, dismissing Master Bao's evasive answers as cunning. Mei Shiyuan ordered Xiao Wanzi to leave, forbidding her from returning to the interrogation room. Outside, Xiao Wanzi fumed to Qiaoyun about Master Bao's insults to her looks and figure.
Qiaoyun confirmed that Master Mei Changyun was away and that Master Bao was comfortably held in his cell. As they discussed a rescue plan, Qiaoyun pointed out a secluded gate, which she learned was used exclusively for the "dung cart" and rarely frequented, sparking an idea for their escape. Qiuhua had already been dispatched to inform He Yizhi of their plan.
Meanwhile, at Dragon Stockade, Nan Batian heard that Master Bao had bravely attempted to kidnap the new princess for him. Surprisingly, instead of being angry about Master Bao's capture by the Mei family, Nan Batian ordered Wu to descend the mountain and rescue his adopted son. Despite Wu's hesitation and concerns about the difficulty of infiltrating General Mei's Palace, Nan Batian threatened him, stating that if he failed to bring Master Bao back, he need not return himself.
Lu Yingyao, confined in the stockade, overheard news of Master Bao's arrest. She initially dismissed her concern, reminding herself he was merely a bandit, but then reflected on his past kindness towards her. Convinced it was only right to "repay his kindness," she sought out Nan Xiang to inquire about Master Bao's safety. Nan Xiang confirmed Master Bao's capture by Mei Shiqing for creating a disturbance at General's Palace, adding that Wu was already on his way to rescue him.
Nan Xiang coldly rebuffed Lu Yingyao's concern, reminding her that as "the Miss of Dragon Stockade," her status was far superior to Lu Yingyao, a "girl used by your father to cover his debts," and that Lu Yingyao had "no qualification to mind my business." Lu Yingyao tried to suggest that Nan Xiang's intelligence could aid Wu, but Nan Xiang again dismissed her, asserting that Lu Yingyao had "no qualified to tell us what to do about our stockade's affairs."
Despite the cold reception, Lu Yingyao's brow remained furrowed with genuine worry for Master Bao. Elsewhere, Qiuhua attempted to smuggle He Yizhi into Mei Mansion, disguised as a caterer delivering food for "Lady Yingyao." Siheng, on patrol, found He Yizhi's face "familiar" and grew suspicious, despite He Yizhi's explanation of frequently delivering food in the city. Xiao Wanzi arrived, asking "What's going on?" as Siheng reported the man was "very suspicious" and prepared to draw his sword. Seizing the moment, He Yizhi quickly knelt and loudly pleaded with "Lady Yingyao," asking her to "Please help me."
Episode 10 Recap
Qiaoyun intervened to protect He Yizhi from Siheng, accusing Siheng of being aggressive towards Princess Xiao Wanzi. Siheng, taken aback, reluctantly put down his sword and begged for mercy. Inside, He Yizhi explained that the situation was urgent, which is why he entered the mansion. He informed them that Qiuhua had already briefed him on their plan, which he believed was good.
However, he insisted on personally rescuing Master Bao, arguing that his current disguise as a waiter and his acquaintance with Master Bao made him the most suitable person to persuade Master Bao to leave. Xiao Wanzi initially expressed concern for her father's safety, but Qiaoyun also agreed that He Yizhi was the best candidate. He Yizhi reassured his daughter, emphasizing the importance of the larger mission.
Xiao Wanzi then outlined the escape plan: the Mei Mansion's master was away, leaving only one guard at the prison during lunchtime, who held the key. She proposed that she would feign delivering a meal to Mei Shiqing, thus allowing He Yizhi to enter the dungeon. Once inside, He Yizhi would knock out the guard, and she would then pretend to be knocked unconscious, allowing He Yizhi to take Master Bao. He Yizhi inquired about their exit strategy.
Xiao Wanzi clarified that after leaving the cell, they should turn right, where a gate led outside. Qiaoyun and Qiuhua would be waiting there to facilitate their exit, while Xiao Wanzi would act as a lookout. He Yizhi expressed deep concern for Xiao Wanzi's safety, stating he wouldn't live if anything happened to her. He then reminded her, "Your father, what great winds and waves hasn't he seen?" Xiao Wanzi, with He Yizhi hidden, approached Mei Shiqing's cell.
She first confronted a guard and then Mei Shiyuan, asserting her authority as a princess when he attempted to block her path. While she created a diversion, He Yizhi quickly incapacitated Mei Shiyuan, taking his keys. Xiao Wanzi then dropped to the floor and feigned unconsciousness on top of Mei Shiyuan. He Yizhi proceeded to Master Bao's cell and freed him.
Master Bao, overjoyed, insisted on first confronting Mei Shiqing to boast about his escape, claiming he could easily navigate the Mei Mansion. Mei Shiqing, calling Master Bao a "mountain monkey," was angered and suspected there was an inside spy assisting the escape. He Yizhi hurried Master Bao away. Once outside the cell, He Yizhi became disoriented, unable to recall the correct escape route.
Master Bao impatiently banged on a nearby door, prompting He Yizhi to attempt using a prearranged code word. To their surprise, a masked figure opened the door. Believing this person to be Qiuhua, their designated contact, they seized the opportunity and made their escape from the Mei Mansion. Shortly after, Xiao Wanzi "regained consciousness" and immediately began shouting for help.
Mei Shiqing, hearing her cries, quickly came to her aid, expressing concern for her well-being while playfully teasing her about not being very smart to begin with. Xiao Wanzi, feigning distress, reported that a bandit was rescued and that she and Mei Shiyuan had been knocked unconscious, and she didn't know what had happened. Mei Shiqing instructed her to find Siheng immediately. Meanwhile, Qiaoyun and Qiuhua, waiting at the designated exit for He Yizhi, noticed his absence.
As Xiao Wanzi continued her cries, she spotted a masked figure checking on the unconscious Mei Shiyuan. Mistaking the person for Qiuhua, she called out, causing the mysterious individual to flee. Unsuspecting, Xiao Wanzi continued to call for help, which drew Qiaoyun and Qiuhua to her. Xiao Wanzi, still pretending to be shaken, reported the incident. Siheng, alarmed by Master Bao's escape, immediately ordered a lockdown of the Mei Mansion and a city-wide search.
Xiao Wanzi vaguely attributed the incident to the delivery person, claiming she was knocked unconscious. Qiaoyun quickly intervened, stating that Xiao Wanzi needed rest due to shock, effectively cutting short Siheng's interrogation. Later, Mei Changyun and Second Madam visited Xiao Wanzi. Xiao Wanzi inquired about the capture of the jailbreakers and was relieved when Mei Changyun reported that they hadn't been found, speculating they might have already left the city.
She then tried to advocate for Mei Shiqing, suggesting he be allowed to help with the investigation. However, Second Madam interjected, mentioning Xiao Wanzi's frequent food deliveries to Mei Shiqing and implying Mei Shiqing's ingratitude, effectively swaying Mei Changyun. Mei Changyun then decided to keep Mei Shiqing imprisoned and even suggested starving him for three days to make him reflect on his actions, despite Xiao Wanzi's attempts to object.
After Mei Changyun and Second Madam departed, alone with Qiaoyun, Xiao Wanzi asked if her father, He Yizhi, was seen escaping. Qiaoyun revealed that neither she nor Qiuhua saw He Yizhi or Master Bao at their designated exit. This led Xiao Wanzi to a chilling realization: the masked person she had seen earlier, whom she initially mistook for Qiuhua, could not have been Qiuhua since Qiuhua was with Qiaoyun.
The fact that the person fled upon hearing her voice further confirmed their suspicion. Both women were then struck by the alarming thought that there might be another spy from the Dragon Stockade operating within the Mei Mansion. Meanwhile, He Yizhi drove a carriage with a drugged Master Bao inside.
Earlier, Master Bao had joked about Princess Xiao Wanzi's appearance, contrasting her with the beauty of Lu Yingyao, but He Yizhi affectionately defended Xiao Wanzi, describing her as "white, chubby, cute, and joyous." He Yizhi had given Master Bao a drugged wine to quiet him down and prepare for a hostage exchange.
Unbeknownst to them, Wu and his faction, who were supposed to be rescuing Master Bao, were resting on the mountain, plotting to kill Master Bao to seize control of Dragon Stockade. When He Yizhi's carriage approached, Wu, noticing He Yizhi's nervousness, ordered a search. They discovered the unconscious Master Bao and captured He Yizhi. Wu intended to murder both of them, planning to frame He Yizhi for Master Bao's death, attributing it to jealousy over Lu Yingyao.
However, Nan Xiang dramatically intervened, stopping Wu and demanding an explanation. She quickly uncovered Wu's nefarious plot to kill Master Bao. Nan Xiang scolded Wu for his betrayal and declared that Nan Batian would personally judge his actions. She then took Master Bao under her protection. Later, at the Dragon Stockade, Lu Yingyao saw Nan Xiang's group and rushed to He Yizhi, questioning him.
He Yizhi explained their initial plan to use Master Bao as a hostage exchange for the Princess to rescue Lu Yingyao, which was thwarted when they encountered Wu. He also reassured her that they acted to protect her reputation and would find another way to help. Lu Yingyao was touched by his kindness. Nan Batian hosted a grand banquet to celebrate Master Bao's safe return.
Master Bao toasted his Godfather Nan Batian and Nan Xiang, acknowledging He Yizhi's crucial role in his rescue. Nan Xiang, however, asserted that he should thank her, as she saved him from certain death at Wu's hands. Master Bao dismissed her, believing Mei Shiqing was incapable of killing him. He then subtly left the main table to bring a plate of plain vegetables to Lu Yingyao.
Master Bao revealed he knew she discreetly sought Nan Xiang's help, which saved his life. Lu Yingyao, though, maintained that she only acted out of fear of being left alone, not out of direct concern for him. Master Bao, seeing through her pretense, smiled secretly. He then confided in her that his original intention in going down the mountain was to kidnap Princess Xiao Wanzi, hoping it would deter Nan Batian's interest in Lu Yingyao.
Lu Yingyao was visibly moved, realizing his selfless motivation, and Master Bao assured her he would handle Nan Batian to prevent her from suffering. In the prison, Mei Shiqing had been on a hunger strike for three days, stubbornly refusing to beg his father for release. Xiao Wanzi attempted to persuade him, even offering him a bun she smuggled in, but Mei Shiqing remained unyielding, declaring he would rather starve than yield to Mei Changyun.
Discussing the recent escape, Xiao Wanzi deduced that He Yizhi, disguised as a waiter, must be from Dragon Stockade, and the masked figure who facilitated the escape must be an internal spy within the Mei Mansion. She expressed frustration that Mei Changyun refused to release Mei Shiqing to investigate, suspecting her father-in-law wanted to prevent Mei Shiqing from gaining credit.
Despite Mei Shiqing's insistence that she not do so, Xiao Wanzi resolved to kneel before Mei Changyun's door until he agreed to release Mei Shiqing. Xiao Wanzi carried out her vow, kneeling steadfastly. Mei Changyun, initially believing her to be too pampered to endure such hardship, was surprised when she continued to kneel for a day and a night. Second Madam attempted to dissuade Mei Changyun from caving in, fearing it would undermine their authority.
However, concerned for Xiao Wanzi's health and the implications for her relationship with the Ninth Lord, Mei Changyun eventually relented. He ordered Mei Shiqing's release, though he issued a stern warning not to repeat such actions. Despite Second Madam's protests about spoiling Xiao Wanzi, Mei Changyun privately admitted to feeling a touch of happiness at Xiao Wanzi's obvious devotion to his son. Upon his release, Mei Shiqing's first reaction was to scold Xiao Wanzi for ignoring his wishes and kneeling.
Offended by his ingratitude, Xiao Wanzi retorted, reminding him that she rescued him from the bandits, and now from prison, making them "square." Mei Shiqing then tenderly carried her back to her room. He carefully applied medicine to her sore knees. As Xiao Wanzi watched his focused expression, she reached out to gently touch his face. Mei Shiqing looked up, their eyes met, and he gently caught her hand.
Episode 11 Recap
Mei Shiqing held Xiao Wanzi's hand gently to his face, but the intimate moment was abruptly interrupted by Qiaoyun's arrival. Qiaoyun, reflecting on Mei Shiqing's recent kindness—such as cooking porridge and applying ointment after Xiao Wanzi's ordeal—reminded Xiao Wanzi that their priority was still rescuing Lu Yingyao, rather than focusing on personal feelings. Meanwhile, Mei Siheng reported to Mei Shiqing about the ongoing investigation into the jailbreak.
The delivery guy who swapped Xiao Wanzi and Lu Yingyao remained elusive, leaving the masked accomplice as their only lead. Although Xiao Wanzi claimed she remembered nothing of the masked man due to fright, Mei Shiqing suggested taking Xiao Wanzi out for a few days, believing a change of scenery might help jog her memory. Qiaoyun, overhearing this, suspected Mei Shiqing intended to use Xiao Wanzi as a decoy. Xiao Wanzi eagerly went out with Mei Shiqing.
On the street, after trying to order some lamb kebabs and hot zongzi, she turned to find Mei Shiqing had vanished, leaving her in an awkward situation with the vendors. As she searched for him, a masked assassin suddenly attacked her, having been lured out by Mei Shiqing using Xiao Wanzi as bait. Lord Nocturnal-elf appeared just in time to fend off the assailant.
In the ensuing fight, the masked man threw a dagger at Xiao Wanzi, causing her to lose her footing and fall from a balcony. Lord Nocturnal-elf swiftly caught her. Overcome by curiosity, Xiao Wanzi daringly unmasked her rescuer, revealing Mei Shiqing's face. Xiao Wanzi initially accused him of impersonation, but Mei Shiqing confirmed his identity by recalling a secret they had shared on Qingcheng Tower.
Though still bewildered that the heroic Lord Nocturnal-elf was the same person as the often-annoying Mei Shiqing, she now found him less annoying and developed a more favorable view of him. Mei Shiqing, however, warned her to be careful, explaining that their encounter had alerted the mole, making her a potential target. Back at the manor, Xiao Wanzi excitedly shared the secret with Qiuhua and Qiaoyun, who were equally astonished.
Qiaoyun quickly reminded her that Mei Shiqing was still betrothed to Lu Yingyao and cautioned Xiao Wanzi against developing inappropriate feelings. Xiao Wanzi, fueled by her newfound admiration for Mei Shiqing as Lord Nocturnal-elf, began to dote on him, bringing him tea and offering massages, much to Mei Siheng's discomfort, who excused himself from the room. When she playfully asked Mei Shiqing to wear his mask so she could serve "Lord Nocturnal-elf," he merely dismissed her request.
Instead, he made her practice calligraphy. Xiao Wanzi, not one to give up easily, tried to teach him her family's unique "chest-breaking and face-painting" skill, using a bewildered Mei Siheng as an unwilling canvas. Mei Shiqing, undeterred, insisted she continue with calligraphy, specifically her own name. When she tried to cut corners, he punished her by ordering her to write it a hundred times, ignoring her pleas to "Lord Nocturnal-elf" for help.
Later that night, Xiao Wanzi noticed a hidden mechanism under her bed had been disturbed, deducing that Lord Nocturnal-elf was once again on the move. She followed Mei Shiqing through a secret passage to Felicity Tavern, where she overheard him discussing sensitive intelligence with Rou. Rou reported that a silk trade caravan was due to pass through Dragon Mountain, and Dragon Stockade planned to rob it. Mei Shiqing saw this as a golden opportunity. Xiao Wanzi's presence was soon detected.
Mei Shiqing, somewhat impressed by her ability to find the hidden mechanism, was met with her cheeky retort that he simply hadn't secured it properly. She then questioned his relationship with Rou, realizing that Rou already knew his secret identity. Mei Shiqing clarified that his connection with Rou was strictly professional, and sternly reminded Xiao Wanzi that their own relationship was merely a contractual arrangement, dispelling any romantic illusions she might have harbored.
Meanwhile, in Dragon Stockade, Lu Yingyao and He Yizhi finalized their escape plan, having meticulously studied the bandits' patrol rotations. Lu Yingyao, recalling her previous failed escape attempts, expressed her deep fear of Nan Batian, but He Yizhi reassured her of their success this time. Seeing Bao prepare to lead his men on a raid, Lu Yingyao, despite her mixed feelings, decided to see him off.
Bao, hoping to gain her affection, presented her with a hairpin he had bought, envisioning a future where his success in raiding would earn Nan Batian's approval for their marriage. Lu Yingyao, however, urged him to prioritize his safety and, crucially, to avoid taking any lives during the raid. Nan Batian also bade Bao farewell, instructing him to return with a substantial haul of loot, further fueling Bao's ambition.
Left alone, Lu Yingyao could only grimace in disgust at Nan Batian's lingering presence. Distraught by Mei Shiqing's firm reminder of their contract and her conflicted feelings about Lord Nocturnal-elf and Mei Shiqing being the same person, Xiao Wanzi sought solace at a street food stall, ordering a bowl of wontons. By chance, she encountered Situ Lin, who noticed her gloomy demeanor. Xiao Wanzi confided her dilemma: the person she liked most was precisely the person she disliked most.
Situ Lin offered a thoughtful analogy, comparing her feelings to the sun—everyone loves its brightness, yet cannot look directly at it, implying her confusion stemmed from desiring something she could not truly possess. Xiao Wanzi absorbed his words, realizing that regardless of her feelings, she would ultimately have to "return" Mei Shiqing to Lu Yingyao once the princess was rescued. She resolved to cut ties cleanly and decisively.
Back at the Mei manor, Mei Shiqing presented his intelligence regarding Dragon Stockade's planned robbery to Mei Changyun, requesting troops to intercept them. However, Mei Changyun was skeptical, dismissing Mei Shiqing's intel from his "only contact" as unreliable. He accused Mei Shiqing of being too impulsive and eager to redeem his past failures, flatly refusing to grant him any soldiers. Mei Shiqing was left fuming.
Just then, Xiao Wanzi entered, reiterating their contractual relationship and attempting to return the cloak and bracelet Mei Shiqing had given her, stressing the need to maintain their distance. Mei Shiqing, preoccupied and frustrated by his father's refusal, told her he had no time for such matters and instructed her to wait for his return.
He then cryptically mentioned money he had stashed in a secret tunnel, for her to use if he didn't come back, implying she should leave for her own safety. Confused and desperate for answers, Xiao Wanzi turned to Mei Siheng for an explanation of Mei Shiqing's urgent mission. Meanwhile, Bao and his men ambushed Wang Biao's caravan. As the battle raged, with Bao reminding his men to only seize goods and not kill, Lord Nocturnal-elf suddenly appeared on the scene.
Episode 12 Recap
Lord Nocturnal-elf found himself embroiled in a fight where Bao was also involved. During their struggle, Bao's blade accidentally sliced open a bag, revealing a cascade of white, crystalline illicit salt. Bao realized, "So they're illicit salt smugglers! No wonder their kungfu is so high." The salt dealers then shouted at Bao's group, "Who are you people? Don't get in the way!" Taking advantage of the chaos, Bao and his mountain bandits seized the illicit salt and fled with it.
Lord Nocturnal-elf was then left to fight Wang Biao alone. Xiao Wanzi secretly followed, helping with her slingshot from the shadows. However, Wang Biao discovered her and struck her with a poisoned dart. Hearing Xiao Wanzi cry out, Lord Nocturnal-elf rushed to her side. Wang Biao smugly declared that his dart was poisoned and demanded that Lord Nocturnal-elf kneel for the antidote.
Lord Nocturnal-elf responded, "Give me the antidote," but Wang Biao retorted, "I have the antidote, but why should I give it to you?" Lord Nocturnal-elf then pleaded, "This has nothing to do with her. Give me the antidote. I'm all at your disposal." Seeing Xiao Wanzi's pained expression, Lord Nocturnal-elf resolutely threw down his sword and knelt before Wang Biao, despite Xiao Wanzi's desperate cries of "No!" Wang Biao then ordered his subordinates to "Hit him!"
and they swarmed Lord Nocturnal-elf, kicking and punching him. Xiao Wanzi, heartbroken, repeatedly begged them to stop. Wang Biao approached, intending to unmask Lord Nocturnal-elf. At this point, Lord Nocturnal-elf could no longer tolerate it. He snatched the antidote, administered it to Xiao Wanzi, and then bravely fought back with his knife, driving away Wang Biao and his group. This battle severely depleted Mei Shiqing's strength. Xiao Wanzi, with great effort, helped Mei Shiqing to a cave to rest.
She felt deeply guilty, apologizing and saying, "It's all because of me. I got you into trouble. Otherwise, you wouldn't have got hurt." Mei Shiqing reassured her, saying, "Silly girl. You saved me. You're not causing me any trouble." Noticing it was getting late, Xiao Wanzi suggested they "slum it in here tonight" and went to find food for them. Bao returned to the mountain stronghold with a cart of smuggled salt.
Nan Batian, seeing him, prepared a banquet to celebrate. Bao explained that they had planned to ambush a silk trade caravan but Lord Nocturnal-elf appeared. During the fight, he discovered the caravan was actually smuggling salt, so he took advantage of the chaos to seize the goods. Nan Xiang defended Bao against Wu's skepticism, causing Nan Batian to believe Bao for Nan Xiang's sake.
Bao then gave Nan Xiang some of the stolen silk, saying, "Nan Xiang, you can choose these cloths at will. Make new clothes." Nan Xiang was thrilled, exclaiming, "Xiao Bao is still the one who dotes on me the most!" Nan Batian, convinced Bao was finally showing interest in Nan Xiang, gleefully thought that "Xiao Wanzi is finally left to me."
Nan Xiang, however, spoke ill of Xiao Wanzi, calling her a "vixen" and a "toad," which angered Nan Batian, who then dismissed her. Later that night, by the campfire, Xiao Wanzi asked Mei Shiqing why he had chosen to become Lord Nocturnal-elf. Mei Shiqing revealed that he lost his mother when he was young, killed by a "gang of bandits," which fueled his hatred for evil and his mission to punish the evils and do good deeds.
He also uses this identity to find his mother's murderers. Xiao Wanzi, moved by his story, promised, "I'll be your company." She then subtly inquired about his relationship with A Rou. Seeing her concern, Mei Shiqing explained that A Rou was a girl he rescued from a "dirty troupe" and took in out of pity, placing her at Felicity Tavern due to her business acumen. He used the tavern as a private meeting place.
Xiao Wanzi playfully complained about the expensive sweet and sour spare ribs at Felicity Tavern, which Mei Shiqing offered to put on his tab. After this conversation, they rested. Mei Shiqing was later jolted awake by a nightmare, reliving the traumatic memory of his mother being attacked and killed by bandits, with her warning him to stay hidden.
Xiao Wanzi woke up and, seeing his pale face, comforted him, promising, "I'll definitely help you find the killer and revenge on them. No matter what happens, I'll always be with you." She recalled him mentioning seeing "only a walking stick" in his dream. Meanwhile, at the mountain stronghold, the celebration left many drunk. He Yizhi, seeing the lax security, urged Lu Yingyao to escape with him.
However, a drunken Bao arrived at Lu Yingyao's door, proudly announcing that he had kept his promise and "didn't kill anybody." He then stated, "I smell like alcohol now. You don't like it for sure. I won't come inside." Lu Yingyao, telling him to rest, watched as he collapsed, falling asleep at her doorstep. Concerned, she gently moved him to her bed.
As she prepared to leave, she bid a sorrowful farewell to the sleeping Bao, expressing her gratitude and hoping he would soon leave the stronghold and find a better life. Just as He Yizhi and Lu Yingyao began to leave, they overheard Wu plotting to frame Bao. Wu ordered his subordinate to place two boxes of goods in Bao's room, hoping to implicate him and prevent him from becoming Nan Batian's successor.
Lu Yingyao, unwilling to let Bao be framed, decided to abandon their escape plan. He Yizhi, unable to return empty-handed or leave Lu Yingyao, also stayed. Lu Yingyao and He Yizhi immediately returned to Bao's room and woke him, informing him of Wu's plot to hide stolen goods and frame him. Bao, though still somewhat drunk, quickly grasped the danger.
He then rallied his subordinates, found the two boxes of goods hidden by Wu's men, subtly incapacitated Wu's men with a drug, and successfully swapped the illicit goods, returning them to Wu's men's room. Bao later thanked Lu Yingyao, saying he had never met someone as kind and beautiful as her.
Lu Yingyao expressed her understanding of his struggles and urged him to leave the bandit life, but Bao lamented that "it's easy to join a gang, but hard to get free." The next day, Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi continued their journey, and were eventually found by Siheng, who quickly escorted them back to Mei Manor. Meanwhile, Wu approached Nan Batian, subtly trying to accuse Bao of wrongdoing.
He reported that Bao's underlings were seen moving two boxes of goods into Bao's room, implying he was hiding smuggled goods, a grave offense in Dragon Stockade. Bao then arrived with a plate of fresh fruit, subtly outshining Wu's offering of leftover fruit. Nan Batian confronted Bao with Wu's accusation. Bao vehemently denied it, affirming his loyalty and the integrity of his men, and accused Wu of slandering him. Nan Batian decided to search Bao's room.
To Wu's surprise, nothing was found there. Seizing the opportunity, Bao demanded a thorough search of the entire stronghold to ensure fairness. Nan Batian agreed, stating, "Now that things have come to this point, we ought to make a thorough investigation." He then asked Bao, "What if we do find goods in your place? What are you going to do?"
Bao replied that if it were his fault, he would admit it, but if someone intended to set him up, he would not let them go. Under the watchful eyes of everyone in the stronghold, Wu's subordinate, Tiezhu, was found with the incriminating goods in his room. Bao sarcastically praised Wu's 'thief crying "stop thief"' tactic and his 'righteous sacrifice of relatives,' questioning why Wu had escalated the situation.
Wu, still defiant, denied any involvement and swore an oath of innocence, sparking a brief brawl between his and Bao's men. Nan Batian, putting an end to the chaos, sternly reminded Wu that "a country has its law and our stockade our rules," and with Tiezhu being his subordinate, he had to decide his fate.
Episode 13 Recap
Nan Batian confronted Wu, asking if he had nothing to do with his subordinate's offense. Wu swore he was innocent, to which Nan Batian reacted by saying, "Strike you dead!" He then stated, "A country has its laws, a stockade has its rules, too," and told Wu to handle his man. Wu, pretending to be angry, reprimanded his subordinate for being too bold and stealing. The subordinate begged for mercy, promising not to repeat the mistake.
Wu then reported to Nan Batian that according to Dragon Stockade's rules, the subordinate's hand should be cut off to satisfy the other members. Xiaobao, showing compassion, intervened, suggesting that despite the man's mistake, he might have an unspoken hardship. Xiaobao proposed a lesser punishment: a beating and a few days of starvation. However, Nan Batian firmly stated that "Rules are rules" and that leniency would undermine the stockade's authority.
He declared, "I'll show you the price of hiding private goods," and ordered the subordinate to be taken away for punishment, ignoring the man's pleas to Wu for help. Back at the Mei mansion, Mei Changyun had already been informed by the Second Madam that Mei Shiqing and the princess had not returned all night, causing worry that the family would become "separated." When Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi appeared, Mei Changyun sternly asked them where they had been.
Mei Shiqing claimed he was on a whim, taking "the princess" sightseeing to experience Qingzhou's local customs. Xiao Wanzi corroborated the story, explaining they were caught in a heavy rain in the mountains and had to take shelter in a cave all night. Mei Changyun reprimanded Mei Shiqing for being childish and irresponsible, warning him that if he ever stayed out all night with the princess again, he would break his legs.
He also urged them to focus on their political future and having children. Mei Shiqing acknowledged his father's words and took his leave. Afterward, in their room, Mei Shiqing's wounds began to ache. Xiao Wanzi, dismissing Siheng and insisting on caring for Mei Shiqing herself, offered to call a doctor, but Mei Shiqing declined, fearing it might "cause other problems." So, Xiao Wanzi bandaged his wound and went to the kitchen to prepare medicine for him.
In the kitchen, Qiaoyun and Qiuhua noticed Xiao Wanzi seemed distracted. Qiaoyun subtly questioned Xiao Wanzi about her relationship with Mei Shiqing, remarking that their "attitudes towards each other changed a lot" after spending a night in a cave. Xiao Wanzi nervously denied any wrongdoing, asserting she "didn't do anything bad to Her Highness." Qiaoyun expressed concern that Xiao Wanzi might get hurt if she developed feelings for Mei Shiqing, especially with the real princess's eventual return.
Xiao Wanzi, lost in thought, even burnt the medicine she was preparing. Later, alone on a bridge, Xiao Wanzi reflected on her growing feelings for Mei Shiqing, realizing he belonged to Lu Yingyao, and that Lord Nocturnal-elf was also Mei Shiqing. She wondered if she was falling for someone she shouldn't. Mei Shiqing noticed Xiao Wanzi's melancholy and approached her.
He accurately guessed she was worried about what would happen when the real princess returned and she had to revert to being Xiao Wanzi. He reassured her, stating firmly, "My heart already belongs to someone," and that his feelings would not change. Xiao Wanzi, torn by her promise to Qiaoyun and her burgeoning feelings, tried to deflect, claiming she was only concerned about his healing.
To cheer her up, Mei Shiqing took Xiao Wanzi to Felicity Tavern for a meal, a place she had previously expressed interest in. At the tavern, Rou greeted them warmly. Xiao Wanzi eagerly ordered several signature dishes, including Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs, West Lake Fish, and Beggar's Chicken. While they waited, Mei Shiqing inquired about the salt trafficking case.
Rou reported that the perpetrators were not ordinary roaming traffickers, as several arrested smugglers had committed suicide, indicating a powerful figure behind them. Mei Shiqing, confident the culprits would expose themselves, instructed Rou to cease further investigation, impressing Xiao Wanzi with his approach.
When Mei Shiqing suggested leaving, Xiao Wanzi, still waiting for her Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs, insisted on staying, explaining she wanted to return to the tavern in the future to enjoy the food and join them in "punishing evils." Mei Shiqing playfully remarked that she was probably "just coming here to eat."
Nan Xiang sought out Wu to show off the new clothes Xiaobao had given her, but Wu deliberately tried to drive a wedge between her and Xiaobao, claiming Xiaobao only cared about "that busker" (Lu Yingyao). Wu even confessed to setting Xiaobao up by planting evidence in his room, adding that Xiaobao must have spent that night in Lu Yingyao's room, being "lovey-dovey" with her. Enraged, Nan Xiang stormed off to confront Lu Yingyao.
Meanwhile, He Yizhi and Lu Yingyao discussed their next steps. He Yizhi believed Xiaobao cared for Lu Yingyao, noting that Xiaobao hadn't harmed anyone during a recent robbery, suggesting they should try to win him over. Lu Yingyao, however, felt her standing with Xiaobao wasn't strong enough to sway him and doubted he could change after growing up in the stockade. She expressed hope that Xiaobao would eventually see Nan Batian's true colors and return to a righteous path.
Suddenly, Nan Xiang appeared, accusing Lu Yingyao of seducing Xiaobao. Seeing that Lu Yingyao's face had recovered, Nan Xiang became even more furious, pulling out a knife and threatening to disfigure her. He Yizhi intervened to protect Lu Yingyao and urged her to run, but Nan Xiang easily overpowered him and pursued Lu Yingyao. Just as Nan Xiang was about to stab Lu Yingyao, Xiaobao arrived, saving Lu Yingyao.
Nan Xiang, upset that Xiaobao protected Lu Yingyao, stormed off to Nan Batian, fabricating a story that He Yizhi and Lu Yingyao were trying to flee and report them to the Yamen. Nan Batian, naturally protective of his daughter, summoned Xiaobao. Xiaobao arrived with Lu Yingyao and He Yizhi, attempting to explain that Nan Xiang had attacked them without cause. He Yizhi also tried to defend himself, stating they were merely taking a walk.
Nan Batian, believing his daughter's words over theirs, became enraged, especially when He Yizhi inadvertently confirmed Nan Xiang's claim by saying "She said it all right" in fear. Nan Batian declared that He Yizhi, despite being "Xiao Wanzi's father" and his future father-in-law, had provoked his displeasure, adding, "But even God can't save you when you piss me off." He then ordered He Yizhi to be locked up.
Lu Yingyao pleaded for her "dad," but Nan Batian, seeing her face was healed, was now fixated on marrying her. He threatened to keep He Yizhi imprisoned until Lu Yingyao agreed to marry him, despite Lu Yingyao feigning that her body was still covered in spots. Xiaobao, though angry at Nan Batian and Nan Xiang's machinations, could only suppress his frustration.
Nan Xiang gloated to Xiaobao, warning him that if he did not treat her well and instead favored Lu Yingyao, she would tell her father. Nan Batian then dismissed them, leaving Nan Xiang to lament to her father about being bullied by them, only to be told by Nan Batian to "Stay away from me. Give me some peace."
Later that night, worried about He Yizhi, Lu Yingyao was surprised when Xiaobao appeared, offering to take her to see her "dad" in prison. They cautiously made their way there, with Xiaobao bribing the guards to allow Lu Yingyao to enter with food he had prepared. Inside the cell, Lu Yingyao expressed her gratitude to He Yizhi for saving her earlier. He Yizhi, touched, said he saw her as a daughter and couldn't bear to see her suffer.
Lu Yingyao, feeling a warmth she hadn't known, confessed her envy for Xiao Wanzi having a father like him. She revealed that despite her noble birth, her own father treated her as a mere pawn. He Yizhi, moved by her words, offered to officially adopt her as his daughter, believing it would give her more protection in the stockade. Lu Yingyao agreed, and after a heartfelt exchange, she promised to protect herself and left.
Outside the prison, Xiaobao took Lu Yingyao to a secluded spot to watch the stars, a place he frequented when upset, especially when "my adoptive father said he would marry you." He asked her to stay with him for a while. As they gazed at the sky, Lu Yingyao mused that the stars were free, but they, observing them, were not.
She gently encouraged Xiaobao to consider a different life beyond the stockade, not for her or He Yizhi, but for himself. She believed he was meant for something greater, reminding him that "A gentleman can go anywhere" and urging him to have faith that he could become the person he truly wished to be. Xiaobao was visibly moved by her words. Lu Yingyao wished everyone could be as free as the stars.
Back in the mansion, Xiao Wanzi excitedly showed Mei Shiqing a set of night clothes she had designed, declaring her intention to be his "right-hand girl" as Lord Nocturnal-elf, ready to "handle the evil and help the people" and "kill all our enemies." Mei Shiqing, however, dismissed her plan, humorously suggesting she was "not making troubles" and telling her to "go back and sleep."
Just then, Siheng rushed in with alarming news: someone had reported to the Yamen, accusing Lord Nocturnal-elf of colluding with Dragon Stockade to rob merchants. Mei Shiqing was stunned that they "dared to set me up" and realized "the people behind this is thorny." He instructed Siheng to tell Rou to keep a close watch on the accuser without taking any direct action.
Not wanting to be left out of the action, Xiao Wanzi, anticipating Mei Shiqing might go out that night, cunningly tied his foot to her hand while he was sleeping to prevent him from "act stealthily" without her. Mei Shiqing woke up with a "headache." The next day, Rou reported that the accuser was a silk merchant named Guo Baiwan from Qingzhou City, who claimed Lord Nocturnal-elf and Dragon Stockade had burned and looted his "first-grade silks."
Mei Shiqing deduced that Guo Baiwan was merely "an errand boy" for a more powerful figure behind the scenes. Recognizing that his enemies had made a move, Mei Shiqing decided against inaction. Using the detailed movements of Guo Baiwan provided by Rou, Mei Shiqing, disguised as Lord Nocturnal-elf, confronted Guo Baiwan. When Guo Baiwan asked if he was Lord Nocturnal-elf, Mei Shiqing replied, "Who else can I be?"
Episode 14 Recap
Lord Nocturnal-elf found Guo Baiwan, who immediately called for the officers, falsely claiming Lord Nocturnal-elf was seeking revenge. Lord Nocturnal-elf, in turn, exposed Guo Baiwan as a salt trafficker violating national law and harming the people, urging the officers to arrest him instead. Despite Guo Baiwan’s denials, Lord Nocturnal-elf presented a map marking the hidden stashes of illegal salt. Just as the officers began to investigate, a mysterious figure ordered his men to attack, revealing an ambush.
Realizing they were surrounded, Lord Nocturnal-elf quickly instructed the officers to retreat, covering their escape. During the chaotic fight, Xiao Wanzi unexpectedly appeared and assisted Lord Nocturnal-elf with her slingshot. Although her help was timely, they were outnumbered and forced to flee, eventually evading their pursuers. Once safe, Lord Nocturnal-elf, who is Mei Shiqing, chided Xiao Wanzi for following him, emphasizing the danger and telling her she was more of a hindrance than help.
Xiao Wanzi argued that she was merely concerned for his safety, just as he was fearless. She then pressed him to acknowledge her help, asking if it was so difficult to say "thank you." Mei Shiqing, with a slight hesitation, quietly thanked her, but before Xiao Wanzi could fully process it, he quickly moved on. After their escape, Wang Biao contacted his master to apologize for failing to capture Lord Nocturnal-elf.
His master, showing leniency, sent Wang Biao to Dragon Stockade. Meanwhile, Xiao Bao took Lu Yingyao to visit He Yizhi in prison. Despite the guards' initial refusal, Xiao Bao bribed them with silver, allowing Lu Yingyao to deliver food. While there, Xiao Bao noticed Wang Biao, a former associate, arriving at the stockade. Wang Biao later presented Nan Batian with lavish gifts from his master.
He then proposed an alliance, asking Nan Batian to help capture Lord Nocturnal-elf, who had continually disrupted their operations. Though initially reluctant to provoke Lord Nocturnal-elf, Nan Batian's resolve wavered when Wang Biao offered 200 taels of gold upfront, with an additional 500 taels if Lord Nocturnal-elf was captured alive. Nan Batian, recalling Wang Biao's master as his former capable subordinate, eagerly accepted, promising good news.
Xiao Bao, secretly overhearing this conversation and preventing Wu from listening, confidently declared himself the only one capable of such a task. Later, Nan Batian gathered his men, announcing the task from the Salter Cartel and promising a reward of 500 taels of silver for Lord Nocturnal-elf's capture. Xiao Bao, uninterested in the monetary reward, made a plea to Nan Batian: if he succeeded, he wished to marry Xiao Wanzi.
Nan Batian, who had hoped to marry Xiao Bao to his own daughter, Nan Xiang, was initially enraged but softened by Xiao Bao's sincere confession that he only viewed Nan Xiang as a sister and that Xiao Wanzi was unique. Moved, Nan Batian agreed, promising Xiao Bao could marry Xiao Wanzi if he captured Lord Nocturnal-elf.
Overjoyed, Xiao Bao immediately shared the news with Lu Yingyao, who was greatly relieved at the prospect of not being forced to marry Nan Batian. Xiao Bao reassured her, promising that he would not compel her to marry him after completing the task, as her freedom was paramount. He also expressed his hope that, one day, she would genuinely fall in love with him, a sentiment that subtly touched Lu Yingyao's heart.
That night, Mei Shiqing chided Xiao Wanzi for her reckless actions, dismissing her involvement as child's play. Offended, Xiao Wanzi declared she didn't want to see him again unless he retracted his words, and accused him of being ungrateful before storming off. The next morning, Xiao Wanzi, drawn by the aroma of food, discovered a table laden with delicacies, including her favorite sweet and sour spare ribs, which a servant informed her Mei Shiqing had specially bought from Felicity Tavern.
Determined not to lose face, she refused to eat, despite Mei Shiqing deliberately eating in front of her to provoke her. Still stubborn, she left, leaving an exasperated Mei Shiqing to instruct Siheng to finish all the food. Later, Qiaoyun, sensing the tension between them, inquired about the quarrel. Xiao Wanzi claimed she was punishing Mei Shiqing for looking down on her, though Qiaoyun pointed out that it was Xiao Wanzi who was suffering by missing out on good meals.
Returning to her room, Xiao Wanzi found a male outfit. Mei Shiqing then revealed his intention to have her disguise as a man to help him with a task, playfully suggesting he would ask Siheng instead if she wasn't interested. Eager to help, Xiao Wanzi quickly agreed, promising to follow his every command. Mei Shiqing's task for her was to find an illegal salt trafficker and lead them to a secluded spot for him to question.
Xiao Wanzi set out, but her mission was complicated by public sentiment. On the streets, she heard people complaining about the high price of official salt and praising the cheap illegal salt, even criticizing Lord Nocturnal-elf for interfering with their access to affordable goods. Xiao Wanzi passionately defended Lord Nocturnal-elf, explaining that while illegal salt seemed cheap now, its proliferation would eventually diminish official salt supplies, leading to higher prices and ultimately harming the common people.
Her arguments, however, fell on deaf ears, with people only caring about immediate savings and some even threatening Lord Nocturnal-elf. The salt dealer quickly dispersed the crowd and fled, leaving Xiao Wanzi's mission a failure. Unbeknownst to her, Mei Shiqing, disguised as Lord Nocturnal-elf, had witnessed the entire scene from a distance. Back at Mei Mansion, a despondent Mei Shiqing pondered whether Lord Nocturnal-elf's actions were truly righteous. Xiao Wanzi, sensing his mood, offered him comfort and perspective.
She acknowledged that for ordinary people struggling to survive, buying cheaper illegal salt was a pragmatic choice. However, she explained, from Lord Nocturnal-elf's standpoint, his duty was to uphold the law and prevent illegal salt trade, which, though seemingly beneficial in the short term, ultimately harmed society by making official salt scarcer and more expensive.
She concluded that his actions were indeed right, and reassured him that despite public misunderstanding, Lord Nocturnal-elf was "heading to the sunshine against the darkness" and remained her greatest hero. Her words visibly uplifted Mei Shiqing, helping him regain his conviction. Wu continued to taunt Xiao Bao, mocking his inability to catch Lord Nocturnal-elf and suggesting that Xiao Wanzi would be an old woman by the time he succeeded.
Xiao Bao retorted angrily, vowing that once he captured Lord Nocturnal-elf, everyone would have to kowtow and call him "Grandpa." Lu Yingyao, having accidentally overheard this conversation, later asked Xiao Bao about his task, expressing concern that he seemed troubled. Xiao Bao reassured her, insisting that nothing was too difficult for him and that he was determined to succeed for their future.
Lu Yingyao then pleaded with Xiao Bao not to pursue Lord Nocturnal-elf, whom her father had described as a benevolent figure beloved by the people of Qing for his daily good deeds. Her words unexpectedly sparked an idea in Xiao Bao's mind. He decided to impersonate Lord Nocturnal-elf and perform various mischievous acts across Qing, hoping to provoke the real Lord Nocturnal-elf into revealing himself.
Soon, rumors spread throughout Qing about Lord Nocturnal-elf's uncharacteristic misdeeds: setting fires, drawing on the face of Qingfeng Academy's president, and even peeping at women in Spring-breeze House. Hearing these slanders, Xiao Wanzi angrily defended Lord Nocturnal-elf, insisting it was a malicious attempt to ruin his reputation. Mei Shiqing, however, quickly pulled her away from the crowd. Back at Mei Mansion, Mei Shiqing, Siheng, and A-Rou discussed the alarming situation.
A-Rou confirmed that the Salter Cartel was behind the smear campaign and had colluded with Dragon Stockade to lure out Lord Nocturnal-elf. Enraged by these underhanded tactics, they resolved to find and apprehend the imposter immediately.
Episode 15 Recap
Rou and Mei Shiqing were discussing recent events. Rou reported that the Salter Cartel had colluded with Dragon Stockade and warned Mei Shiqing to be careful. Xiao Wanzi, frustrated by the situation, wanted to immediately apprehend the imposter Lord Nocturnal-elf.
Mei Shiqing, however, observed that the fake Lord Nocturnal-elf's actions, such as lighting fires without destroying shops and visiting brothels without committing robbery, were not truly malicious, leading him to believe there was more to the situation than met the eye, suggesting it was not typical of the Salter Cartel's methods. Meanwhile, Xiao Bao, determined to frame the real Lord Nocturnal-elf, disguised himself and declared his intention to accuse him of "molesting woman."
His initial attempts to find a woman proved difficult, as most of the people he encountered were men. He eventually found a woman and attempted to "molest" her, only to discover she was heavily pregnant and about to give birth. Feeling a pang of conscience, Xiao Bao quickly took her to a doctor's clinic. There, he and the woman's husband anxiously encouraged her as she gave birth to a healthy baby boy.
Witnessing the birth and the parents' joy, Xiao Bao felt an unexpected sense of happiness, far exceeding the thrill of winning money. He returned to his camp, celebrating his "glorious deed" by ordering a feast for his men, who mistakenly believed he had won a fortune gambling. He dismissed their speculation as "Philistine." Xiao Bao then sought out Lu Yingyao to share his experience.
He found her and enthusiastically recounted how he had saved the pregnant woman and felt "over the moon." Lu Yingyao praised his inherent kindness and expressed her hope that this incident would prompt him to reconsider the distinct paths of good and evil. Inspired, Xiao Bao promised he would dedicate himself to doing good deeds, even more than the real Lord Nocturnal-elf. Lu Yingyao encouraged him to listen to his heart and choose his future path wisely.
Following this, Xiao Bao became "addicted" to performing good deeds in disguise as Lord Nocturnal-elf. He helped a couple reconcile their argument, and assisted an elderly woman with her laundry, earning praise from the grateful public. Soon, rumors spread through the streets about Lord Nocturnal-elf's numerous good deeds, with children even expressing desires to grow up and be like him. Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi overheard these discussions.
While Mei Shiqing was pleased, believing that any good done in the name of Lord Nocturnal-elf was positive, Xiao Wanzi was furious, feeling that the imposter was discrediting the true hero. She vehemently declared that Lord Nocturnal-elf was unique and irreplaceable in her heart, and she would find a way to teach the fake one a lesson. To lure out the imposter, Xiao Wanzi devised a plan.
She climbed atop the city gate, dramatically crying out that she was being sold to a brothel and would rather die than face such a fate, threatening to jump. After some time, she grew frustrated when only Mei Shiqing, disguised as Lord Nocturnal-elf, appeared. She continued her fabricated story about her cruel father and impending sale to a brothel. Mei Shiqing, recognizing her charade, calmly told her to "Jump then!" and questioned her lack of "sympathy."
As she became agitated, Xiao Wanzi nearly fell, but Mei Shiqing swiftly caught her. Once safe, Xiao Wanzi quickly realized it was Mei Shiqing and accused him of being the fake Lord Nocturnal-elf, while he playfully mocked her "poor skills" with a sleeping gas. Meanwhile, Nan Batian, growing impatient with Xiao Bao's lack of progress, threatened him.
He announced his departure from the mountain stronghold for a period and demanded that Xiao Bao capture Lord Nocturnal-elf by the time he returned, or his personal request (likely concerning Lu Yingyao) would be denied. Distressed, Xiao Bao confided in Lu Yingyao, telling her that if he failed, he would no longer be able to protect her. Lu Yingyao, however, urged him not to harm Lord Nocturnal-elf, insisting that the hero was a good man.
She even declared that she would rather marry Nan Batian and remain in the stronghold forever than see Xiao Bao compromise his morality by capturing an innocent person. Xiao Bao, though verbally agreeing, secretly resolved to catch Lord Nocturnal-elf at all costs to ensure Lu Yingyao's safety, professing that he liked her even more now and had to do this to save her, regardless of the consequences.
Lu Yingyao warned him against confusing good and evil, stating that such actions would bring him no benefit. Later that night, Xiao Wanzi once again feigned a sprained ankle, calling for help. Xiao Bao, still determined to catch Lord Nocturnal-elf, appeared in his disguise, initially frustrated by another call to do a good deed. As he approached, he recognized Xiao Wanzi, realizing she was "the princess who married into the general's residence."
He confronted her, demanding to know who sent her. Just then, Mei Shiqing, also in his Lord Nocturnal-elf attire, arrived. Xiao Wanzi immediately sought refuge behind Mei Shiqing. The two Lord Nocturnal-elves exchanged taunts, with Xiao Bao ridiculing Mei Shiqing's "old woman's foot-binding cloth" costume, and Mei Shiqing questioning Xiao Bao's crude disguise.
They began to fight, and in the chaos, Xiao Bao was pushed backward by Mei Shiqing, causing him to collide with Xiao Wanzi, sending them both tumbling into a nearby well. Mei Shiqing quickly threw Xiao Bao aside and then jumped into the well to rescue Xiao Wanzi. Finding her unconscious in the water, Mei Shiqing performed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. When Xiao Wanzi regained consciousness and saw Mei Shiqing, her heart stirred, but a sense of guilt and embarrassment quickly arose.
Mei Shiqing tried to explain that his actions were a matter of "urgent" necessity, but Xiao Wanzi, overwhelmed, told him not to follow her. The next day, Xiao Wanzi remained troubled and avoided Mei Shiqing, even claiming she wasn't hungry at breakfast to escape his presence. Mei Shiqing, concerned and believing he had upset her with his "impulsiveness," confronted her, apologizing for kissing her without permission and promising "it won't happen again."
However, Xiao Wanzi, who had initially not blamed him for the kiss, became even more furious at his apology, interpreting it as him wanting to distance himself from her. She angrily declared that whoever brought up the incident again would be despised, then ran off. Mei Shiqing, utterly confused by her reaction, confided in Siheng about the incident. Siheng, initially perplexed, then jokingly called Mei Shiqing a "love rat" for apologizing after the kiss.
Realizing the complexity of the situation, Siheng quickly excused himself. Mei Shiqing was left to ponder how his act of saving her had somehow made him a "love rat." Later, Qiaoyun, observing Xiao Wanzi's unusual behavior, tried to question her. Xiao Wanzi feigned sleep, but Qiaoyun, seeing through the act, directly asked, "Do you have a crush on the Young Lord?" Xiao Wanzi vehemently denied it, calling Mei Shiqing "that big idiot" and claiming she "couldn't hate him more," leaving Qiaoyun to wonder what truly transpired the previous night.
Episode 16 Recap
Qiaoyun questioned Xiao Wanzi about the previous night, probing if she had developed feelings for Mei Shiqing. Xiao Wanzi vehemently denied it, claiming to dislike him and dismissing the events of the night as merely falling into water. Qiaoyun, however, reminded her that Mei Shiqing's marriage to Lu Yingyao was decreed by His Majesty, implying Xiao Wanzi would eventually have to relinquish her position as his temporary wife.
Xiao Wanzi acknowledged this, stating it was their agreement from the start, though she inwardly grappled with her emotions. Meanwhile, Lu Yingyao visited He Yizhi, who expressed his relief and concern for her. She reported that Nan Batian had agreed not to marry her, but only if Bao captured the Lord Nocturnal-elf. Lu Yingyao worried, stating that the Lord Nocturnal-elf was a good person and she didn't want him to suffer because of her.
She also mentioned Bao's previous failures and recent injury in attempting to catch him. He Yizhi, focusing on Bao’s injury, saw an opportunity for escape, believing their recent inactivity meant a window for them to flee. Lu Yingyao was skeptical, citing past failures. He Yizhi then revealed the existence of a maze outside the Dragon Stockade, which had caused their previous escape attempts to fail. Lu Yingyao, seeing new hope, suggested finding the maze's drawing.
Believing Nan Batian kept the drawing, and knowing he was currently absent from the Stockade, Lu Yingyao proposed approaching Nan Xiang instead. He Yizhi initially objected due to Nan Xiang's animosity towards Lu Yingyao, but Lu Yingyao insisted it was their only option. Lu Yingyao then sought out Nan Xiang, declaring her intention to befriend her.
Nan Xiang was hostile, but Lu Yingyao cunningly suggested that if Nan Xiang continued to target her, Bao would only grow to dislike her more. She promised to help Nan Xiang win Bao’s affection, pointing out that Bao had already developed feelings for her in just a few days. Nan Xiang, though skeptical of her methods, agreed to the alliance, under the condition that Lu Yingyao ensure Bao fell in love with her.
Lu Yingyao advised Nan Xiang to adopt a more gentle and feminine demeanor, as Bao desired a kind wife, not a fighting companion. Later, Bao was astonished to see Lu Yingyao and Nan Xiang walking arm-in-arm, questioning if he was dreaming; others were also surprised to see them. He pulled Lu Yingyao aside, concerned Nan Xiang was still bullying her, but Lu Yingyao assured him she was only making a friend to ensure her safety in the perilous Stockade.
Bao, though somewhat confused, promised to support her no matter what. Lu Yingyao, in turn, advised Bao to prioritize his recovery and not dwell on capturing the Lord Nocturnal-elf. Elsewhere, Xiao Wanzi encountered Situ Lin on the street. Noticing her distress, Situ Lin offered a listening ear. Xiao Wanzi confided her worries, feeling lost in her current situation. Situ Lin assured her that he would support her through any difficulties, earning her gratitude.
Unbeknownst to them, Mei Shiqing witnessed their friendly interaction from a distance. Back at the Mei Mansion, Mei Shiqing confronted Xiao Wanzi, inquiring about her encounter with Situ Lin. He expressed annoyance at her calling Situ Lin "Brother Situ" and reminded her of her status as the General’s wife, questioning the appropriateness of such familiarity with another man. Xiao Wanzi, sensing his jealousy, asked if he was upset.
Mei Shiqing vehemently denied it, claiming he was merely concerned for her safety, but insisted she stay away from Situ Lin. Angered, Xiao Wanzi praised Situ Lin's kindness and warmth, contrasting it with Mei Shiqing's cold and friendless nature, which deeply stung him.
Later, Mei Shiqing discussed the private salt trade and the Dragon Stockade with Siheng, instructing him to have Rou closely monitor the Dragon Stockade, especially during its quiet periods, and to capture the Lord Nocturnal-elf if he appeared. Xiao Wanzi, secretly listening in, was caught by Mei Shiqing, who playfully asked if she was concerned about his investigation or him. She dismissed his teasing, claiming her only concern was justice.
Mei Shiqing, using the lure of delicious new dishes at the Felicity Tavern, convinced her to join him. While dining, Rou reported her findings: the Salter Cartel had bribed the Dragon Stockade to capture the Lord Nocturnal-elf, a revelation Mei Shiqing seemed eager to exploit. As they were leaving, they coincidentally met Situ Lin. Situ Lin, acknowledging Mei Shiqing as Lord Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi as his Lady, invited them to Qing’s Chamber of Commerce celebration in three days.
Captivated by the promise of good food and entertainment, Xiao Wanzi eagerly accepted the invitation, much to Mei Shiqing’s visible displeasure. Afterward, Mei Shiqing secretly ordered Siheng to keep a close watch on Situ Lin, suspecting his involvement with the Salter Cartel. Siheng then also tried to persuade Mei Shiqing to be honest with Xiao Wanzi about his jealousy, but Mei Shiqing, unsure of his own feelings, repeatedly denied it. The day of the celebration arrived.
Her Ladyship and Shiyuan, dressed opulently to represent the Mei Mansion, prepared to attend, hoping to secure Shiyuan a suitable wife among the capital’s elite. They expected Mei Shiqing would not come, as he typically shunned such social events, and although Xiao Wanzi had expressed her intent to attend, Her Ladyship and Shiyuan still seemed surprised by her arrival.
Despite Mei Shiqing’s attempts to dissuade her by criticizing her attire, Xiao Wanzi, convinced it was important to maintain appearances as the "princess," decided to go, accompanied by Qiaoyun. Situ Lin warmly greeted Xiao Wanzi and offered to give her a tour, further irritating Her Ladyship, though Shiyuan wryly noted any embarrassment would reflect on Mei Shiqing. During the celebration, Situ Lin publicly proposed that Xiao Wanzi, celebrated as the capital's most talented woman, should write the commemorative inscription.
Despite Her Ladyship's attempts to push Shiyuan forward and Xiao Wanzi's modest refusals, the crowd insisted. As Xiao Wanzi stood uncertainly, Mei Shiqing dramatically appeared. He declared his intention to write the inscription alongside his wife, taking her hand and guiding her brush, thereby gracefully rescuing her from the spotlight and publicly reaffirming their marital bond. This act brought disappointment to Her Ladyship and Shiyuan, and even a subtle, unreadable expression to Situ Lin's face.
Later, Mei Shiqing and Situ Lin engaged in a competitive game, seemingly a friendly martial arts display, but observed by others as a veiled rivalry for Xiao Wanzi's attention. Mei Shiqing emerged victorious, winning a "good luck" token. He intended to present it to Xiao Wanzi, emphasizing his desire to bestow good fortune upon his wife. However, his forceful winning move injured Situ Lin, prompting Xiao Wanzi to express concern for Situ Lin and rebuke Mei Shiqing for his heavy-handedness.
Back at the Mei Mansion, their argument continued. Xiao Wanzi accused Mei Shiqing of deliberately harming Situ Lin out of personal dislike, while Mei Shiqing vehemently defended his actions and asserted that Situ Lin was not a good person, hinting at his unsavory business dealings. Xiao Wanzi refused to listen, staunchly defending Situ Lin as her friend and declaring her unwavering trust in him, despite Mei Shiqing’s warnings. Mei Shiqing grew frustrated by her stubbornness and her insistence on befriending Situ Lin.
Episode 17 Recap
Lu Yingyao began training Nan Xiang to cultivate her womanly charm, so they went to Nan Xiang's room. Lu Yingyao observed Nan Xiang had no exquisite clothes or makeup, so she personally provided beautiful clothes for Nan Xiang to wear and applied her makeup. Nan Xiang questioned why they had to be in her room, to which Lu Yingyao explained she would train her to be a lady and change her thoroughly.
Nan Xiang warned that if Bao did not like her transformation, she would kill Lu Yingyao. Lu Yingyao retorted that Nan Xiang's constant talk of killing would only make Bao see her as a brother. Nan Xiang argued that Bao liked her when she was younger, but Lu Yingyao insisted Bao was no longer a child and required a woman with feminine charm.
Lu Yingyao observed that Nan Xiang's demeanor and lifestyle were too masculine, which was why Bao regarded her as a brother. After some reluctance and a challenge from Lu Yingyao, Nan Xiang declared, "I'll do it for Bao," resolving to prove she could also be a beauty. Lu Yingyao began applying makeup and instructing Nan Xiang on proper conduct, stressing the importance of practice. Nan Xiang confidently assured her she would learn quickly.
Bao's men spotted Nan Xiang, mistakenly identifying her as Bao's wife. Bao himself excitedly called out "Xiao Wanzi," believing it was Lu Yingyao, but recoiled in fear upon seeing Nan Xiang's exaggerated makeup, which included dark circles and lips resembling a sausage. Nan Xiang explained that the "busker" (Lu Yingyao) had taught her this look, claiming Bao would like it, and threatened to kill Lu Yingyao if he disapproved.
Bao quickly changed his tune, praising Nan Xiang's "beauty" and "fantastic" makeup. Nan Xiang then invited Bao to admire the scenery, but he made a quick excuse about needing to use the latrine, suggesting they "date another day." Nan Xiang later happily reported Bao's compliments to Lu Yingyao, who was surprised by Bao's unusual taste. Bao then brought rouges and ornaments to Lu Yingyao's room, intending them for her, only to find Nan Xiang already there.
He changed his mind and presented Nan Xiang with a simple ornament, claiming it suited her. When Nan Xiang asked if he now found her feminine, Bao affirmed it. Delighted, Nan Xiang invited Bao to pick apples with her. Bao wanted Lu Yingyao to join, but she feigned illness and, with an eye signal to Bao, encouraged him to go with Nan Xiang while she went to bring roasted chicken and liquor to He Yizhi.
Later, Lu Yingyao visited He Yizhi, telling him she was helping Bao and Nan Xiang get together. Noticing her underlying sadness and anxiety, He Yizhi immediately deduced that Lu Yingyao was jealous of Nan Xiang and had fallen for Bao. Lu Yingyao vehemently denied having feelings for Bao, calling him a "bandit," but He Yizhi remained convinced. Meanwhile, Her Ladyship continued to scheme against Xiao Wanzi and Situ Lin, intent on finding evidence of private dates to frame them.
A servant reported that there had only been formal exchanges of gifts, prompting Her Ladyship to impatiently press for more. Soon after, another servant reported that Xiao Wanzi and Situ Lin were eating wontons at a small food stall. Her Ladyship ordered surveillance and rushed to inform Mei Changyun. Xiao Wanzi met Situ Lin and apologized for Mei Shiqing's earlier rudeness.
Situ Lin, cunningly displaying tolerance, advised Xiao Wanzi to be understanding of Mei Shiqing, describing him as childish and irrational. Xiao Wanzi expressed her admiration for Situ Lin's magnanimity, and they confirmed their desire to maintain their friendly interactions before enjoying their wontons. Upon Xiao Wanzi's return to the Mei residence, Qiaoyun informed her that Mei Changyun was looking for her.
Xiao Wanzi, worried about the reason, refused Qiaoyun's suggestion to seek Mei Shiqing's help, but Qiaoyun secretly sent Qiuhua to alert him. Mei Changyun and Her Ladyship confronted Xiao Wanzi, accusing her of meeting privately with a strange man, which they considered cheating and ruining the family's reputation. Xiao Wanzi denied any private meetings. Her Ladyship threatened to summon the wonton stall owner to testify about multiple "dates" between Xiao Wanzi and Situ Lin.
Xiao Wanzi clarified that they merely had a meal and a chat. Mei Changyun questioned her choice to associate with an unmarried playboy. When Xiao Wanzi defended Situ Lin, Her Ladyship berated her for daring to talk back and attempted to slap her, but Mei Shiqing intervened just in time. Mei Shiqing defended Xiao Wanzi, arguing that she simply loved food, met Situ Lin by chance, and always informed him of their encounters.
He pointed out that meeting in public at a wonton stall hardly constituted a private rendezvous. Mei Changyun resolved the matter by instructing Xiao Wanzi to order food to the residence in the future, to avoid gossip. Her Ladyship and Mei Shiyuan were then reprimanded for escalating the situation without clear evidence. Afterward, Xiao Wanzi reassured Mei Shiqing of her innocence regarding Situ Lin, and he confirmed his trust in her, even joking about her "ugly" appearance when distressed.
He confidently stated that with him around, she would not fall for another man, a sentiment Xiao Wanzi found quite narcissistic. Lu Yingyao suggested Nan Xiang learn to cook to win Bao's heart. Nan Xiang initially proposed inviting Bao to drink liquor until they were "a bit drunk" for a confession, but Lu Yingyao dismissed this, emphasizing that "to win a man's heart, win his stomach first."
Lu Yingyao, admitting she couldn't cook, offered to act as a taste tester to approve Nan Xiang's dishes. Nan Xiang initially considered pretending to cook, but Lu Yingyao stressed the importance of sincerity. Nan Xiang diligently practiced, struggling through dishes that were either "too salty and dry" or "tasteless." Despite her frustration and a threat to Lu Yingyao with a kitchen knife, Nan Xiang eventually achieved a "basic standard" with food that was "passable" but "not fine enough."
Lu Yingyao pushed her further, urging her to master three dishes and one soup, and Nan Xiang committed to the task "for Bao." Bao later saw Nan Xiang cooking and asked Lu Yingyao if she could cook. She replied she could not, but was skilled at playing the Guqin, though she hadn't played in a while. Inspired, Bao went to a shop and purchased the "crown jewel" Guqin, anticipating Lu Yingyao's joy.
Meanwhile, Nan Xiang successfully prepared three dishes and one soup. Proud of her accomplishment after just two days, she believed Bao would surely be pleased. She then went to wash and get ready, instructing the cook to take her dishes to the bamboo pavilion in the back mountain for Bao's dinner, emphasizing it was a "surprise." Bao also arranged for a secret dinner at the same bamboo building, complete with wine, for himself and Lu Yingyao.
As Lu Yingyao pondered how to extract map information from Nan Xiang, Bao approached her, claiming to know what she was thinking. He invited her to the bamboo building that night, warning she would "regret it forever" if she didn't come. Lu Yingyao was left wondering what he knew. At the bamboo building, Bao had set up the Guqin, wine, and food.
When Lu Yingyao arrived, he presented the Guqin as a surprise gift, saying he would listen to her play forever. Just as a romantic moment unfolded, Nan Xiang unexpectedly appeared, announcing that she had cooked the food and invited Bao.
Fearing her plan to unite Bao and Nan Xiang was "jeopardized," Lu Yingyao quickly intervened, telling Bao to "be kind to Nan Xiang" and falsely informing Nan Xiang that Bao had invited her to play the Guqin to liven up the atmosphere. Nan Xiang believed her, and Lu Yingyao began to play while Nan Xiang tried to serve Bao food. However, Bao's gaze remained fixed on Lu Yingyao, causing Nan Xiang to notice and angrily throw her chopsticks.
Lu Yingyao, trying to salvage the situation, suggested that since Bao liked the Guqin's sound, she could teach Nan Xiang to play for him. Nan Xiang eagerly agreed. But Bao, frustrated, threw his own bowl and chopsticks, declaring he hated the Guqin's sound and found it horrible. When Nan Xiang asked what was wrong, Bao confronted Lu Yingyao, asking if she truly wanted to push him towards Nan Xiang. Lu Yingyao remained silent, and Bao, deeply disappointed, stormed off.
Nan Xiang, echoing Bao's sentiment, pushed the Guqin to the ground, stating she wouldn't learn if Bao disliked it. Bao vented his anger to He Yizhi, criticizing Lu Yingyao and blaming He Yizhi for his current predicament. He Yizhi, with some philosophical musings, eventually revealed that Lu Yingyao had been "jealous" when Bao went apple picking with Nan Xiang. Bao's mood instantly brightened.
He excitedly pressed He Yizhi for confirmation, which He Yizhi provided, stating, "No one knows my daughter better than I do." He Yizhi urged Bao to go to Lu Yingyao immediately. Bao found Lu Yingyao and asked if she didn't want him to interact with Nan Xiang. Lu Yingyao, feigning indifference, stated that befriending Nan Xiang was her own affair and he shouldn't "force yourself to cooperate with me."
Bao insisted he was willing to cooperate with anything, but Lu Yingyao declared, "So much for today's issue." Bao refused to let it end and, remembering the broken Guqin, promised to fix and return it before leaving. Lu Yingyao was left to ponder her true feelings. In the following days, Xiao Wanzi felt dejected and conflicted about her emotions for Mei Shiqing.
She thought about his often lofty, ill-tempered, and bossy nature, but also recognized his protective instincts, akin to "Lord Nocturnal-elf." She admitted to feeling "stuffy." Mei Shiqing noticed her discomfort and offered to take her out, but she declined, choosing to walk in the garden alone.
As she walked, she reminded herself that even if Mei Shiqing was a good man, he was not for her, echoing Qiaoyun's advice not to "crave the pie in the sky" and to "stay away from him." Mei Shiqing, unwilling to let the moment pass, followed her, embraced her, and kissed her deeply.
Episode 18 Recap
Mei Shiqing kissed Xiao Wanzi, then departed with a smile. Xiao Wanzi, startled, pushed him away and asked why he had kissed her again, reminding him he had said there wouldn't be a next time. Mei Shiqing simply stated that he liked her, repeating his affection. When he asked if she was reluctant to accept his feelings, Xiao Wanzi confessed she didn't know what to do.
Mei Shiqing, seeing her distress, told her she didn't need to answer him immediately and to take time to think before he left. Meanwhile, He Yizhi met with Lu Yingyao, revealing he had found a clue about the map. Based on his observations, He Yizhi was certain the map was hidden within Nan Batian's crutch. He explained that Nan Batian, a seasoned veteran, trusted no one and kept his crutch with him at all times.
Lu Yingyao eagerly volunteered for the task, noting that Nan Batian would return to the stockade in a day or two, and He Yizhi cautioned her to be careful. Lu Yingyao then found Nan Xiang, who was frustrated that Bao preferred Lu Yingyao over her. Lu Yingyao, despite Nan Xiang's initial hostility, skillfully persuaded her that to win Bao's affection, she should not appear too eager.
She suggested that Nan Xiang personally cook a dinner to welcome Nan Batian back to the stockade, showcasing her womanly charm and creating a sense of urgency for Bao. Nan Xiang, though outwardly fierce, was secretly pleased with the suggestion. Following this, Lu Yingyao visited Brother Liu at the pharmacy, falsely claiming that Bao suffered from constipation to acquire a potent laxative.
Brother Liu warned her to be careful with the dosage, assuring her it was strong enough to cause tremendous runs. Upon Nan Batian’s return, Nan Xiang proudly presented him with a table full of dishes she had prepared. Nan Batian feigned delight, complimenting her cooking and discreetly spitting out the food when Nan Xiang wasn't looking.
He then inquired about Bao’s progress in capturing Lord Nocturnal-elf and, noticing Lu Yingyao’s improved appearance (her facial blemishes had cleared), expressed his intention to marry her soon. As Lu Yingyao poured wine for Nan Batian, her nervousness caused her to overfill the cup. When she offered to get him another, she secretly added the laxative to the new bowl. Nan Batian, captivated, drank it without suspicion.
Shortly after, the laxative took effect, causing Nan Batian to emit loud gas that disrupted the meal. He quickly excused himself to the pit latrine, leaving his crutch outside. Lu Yingyao seized the moment to grab the crutch and began to examine it. However, Bao suddenly appeared, questioning her presence and why she held Nan Batian’s crutch. Lu Yingyao claimed she had mistakenly come to the wrong place. Just then, Nan Batian emerged and saw Bao with his crutch.
Bao quickly fabricated a story, claiming he had noticed Nan Batian's uncomfortable walking and was examining the crutch for defects. Nan Batian retrieved his crutch, sternly warning Bao not to touch things he shouldn't. Later, Bao privately confronted Lu Yingyao about her actions, cautioning her that Nan Batian, despite his declining health, remained ruthless. Lu Yingyao acknowledged his warning. That night, Lu Yingyao informed He Yizhi that she found no mechanisms or map inside the crutch.
He Yizhi was deeply disheartened, lamenting that he might never see his daughter, Lady Yingyao, again. Xiao Wanzi was in turmoil, constantly reflecting on her relationship with Mei Shiqing and his identity as Lord Nocturnal-elf. She pondered why he was a junior general while she was merely a "rock-breaking busker," feeling she was not good enough. She worried that if Lady Yingyao were to return, everything she currently possessed, including Mei Shiqing, would have to be relinquished.
She reminded herself of her promise to return him to Lady Yingyao, yet she admitted she couldn't get him off her mind. The next day, Xiao Wanzi's somber mood caught the attention of Autumn Hua and Qiaoyun. They inquired about her relationship with Mei Shiqing, noting the unusual quietness between them. Xiao Wanzi, visibly flustered, vaguely stated they were "doing all right" and "getting along harmoniously," respecting each other like guests and not crossing the line.
Autumn Hua and Qiaoyun then expressed their growing concern for He Yizhi and Lady Yingyao, especially given He Yizhi's timid and gambling-addicted nature. Xiao Wanzi promised to inquire about them when she had the chance. Qiaoyun then reassured Xiao Wanzi, telling her that good people are blessed and that fate would not be unkind to her.
In another part of the mansion, Mei Shiqing, who was seemingly lost in thought about Xiao Wanzi, was informed by Siheng about developments in the salt smuggling case. Mei Shiqing subtly hinted to Siheng, who then loudly mentioned that the roasted goose Mei Shiqing had ordered for "Lady Yingyao" from Felicity Tavern was ready. Xiao Wanzi's ears perked up, her interest visibly piqued. Mei Shiqing invited her to join them, but she declined.
Mei Shiqing then, under the pretense of leaving for the tavern with Siheng, instructed guards to ensure Xiao Wanzi did not leave her room. After they had seemingly departed, Xiao Wanzi, believing she needed to contribute to solving the salt smuggling case and help those involved, cautiously opened her door. However, Mei Shiqing and Siheng were waiting just outside, "hunting for mice."
Mei Shiqing sent Siheng to escort Xiao Wanzi back to her room, though she insisted she could return herself. After they genuinely left, Xiao Wanzi once again quietly opened her door, determined to act. Rou reported to Mei Shiqing that Wang Biao had visited Dragon Stockade with a lavish gift, coinciding with the appearance of the fake Lord Nocturnal-elf. Mei Shiqing deduced that the fake Lord Nocturnal-elf was none other than Bao from Dragon Stockade, recognizing his fighting style.
Rou also revealed that the funding sources of Paradise Casino suggested a deeper connection than just Dragon Stockade, possibly linking it to the Salter Cartel. Xiao Wanzi, who had been secretly listening, realized the connection between Paradise Casino and Dragon Stockade, understanding that this implied a vast network of individuals involved in smuggling. Mei Shiqing sensed her presence and called her in.
He playfully teased her about her heavy footsteps from eating too much, while Siheng jokingly warned her that anyone else might have attacked her for eavesdropping. Mei Shiqing then criticized her for refusing his invitation to the tavern but sneaking out later. Xiao Wanzi defiantly asserted that she enjoyed it. Mei Shiqing, exasperated, decided to go out for fresh air.
Xiao Wanzi, determined to put an end to her ambiguous relationship with Mei Shiqing and wanting Lady Yingyao to return, resolved to use Paradise Casino to gather intelligence on Dragon Stockade, hoping to find her father and Lady Yingyao. Mei Shiqing, noticing her thoughtful expression, asked what "bad idea" she was contemplating. Xiao Wanzi quickly deflected, assuring him she had learned her lesson from her previous dangerous encounter and that she now prioritized using her mouth for "delicious food."
Mei Shiqing, seemingly convinced, believed her. Xiao Wanzi then suggested they try stinky tofu. Mei Shiqing initially found the smell repulsive, but after Xiao Wanzi made him try a piece, he admitted it was "not bad" and ordered two more portions. Later, Xiao Wanzi shared her findings about Paradise Casino being a Dragon Stockade property with Autumn Hua, confirming it as a promising lead for her father and Lady Yingyao.
Autumn Hua expressed concern about the casino manager, Chifeng, who was known to be troublesome. Xiao Wanzi reassured her that she had a plan and only needed Autumn Hua to wait for her outside. Despite Autumn Hua’s renewed offer to go in her stead, Xiao Wanzi insisted on her own method and made Autumn Hua promise not to tell Mei Shiqing. Autumn Hua reluctantly agreed.
Xiao Wanzi, disguised as Lord Nocturnal-elf, infiltrated Paradise Casino and demanded to speak with the manager, Chifeng. Intimidated by her presence, Chifeng cautiously responded to her questions about Dragon Stockade. After some pressure, he admitted to knowing He Yizhi, stating that he was living comfortably in Dragon Stockade, treated as Nan Batian's father-in-law.
When Xiao Wanzi inquired about Lady Yingyao's well-being, Chifeng revealed that Nan Batian had taken a fancy to her, though he also claimed she had developed a mysterious skin disease with abscesses, making others avoid her. He specified seeing her on the first day of the current month, which led Xiao Wanzi to deduce that casino personnel visited Dragon Stockade on that particular day. As Xiao Wanzi processed this information, other casino patrons moved to attack her.
Fortunately, the real Lord Nocturnal-elf (Mei Shiqing) arrived just in time, rescuing her from danger. Back at Mei Mansion, Mei Shiqing, still in his Lord Nocturnal-elf guise, reprimanded Xiao Wanzi for breaking her promise and recklessly going to the casino. Xiao Wanzi fiercely defended her actions, arguing that she had successfully intimidated the casino staff and could have gathered more intelligence if he hadn't intervened, asserting that "nothing venture, nothing have."
Mei Shiqing retorted that she had almost lost her life and called her "naive and silly." Xiao Wanzi, frustrated by his constant underestimation, insisted she had obtained valuable information and, despite lacking martial arts skills, possessed enough strength to protect herself. Mei Shiqing threatened to reclaim the cape and bracelet he had given her for protection if she continued to endanger herself. Enraged, Xiao Wanzi threw the items back at him, declaring she wanted no further connection with him.
Mei Shiqing watched her storm off, his emotions complex, muttering "You, stinky pork pellet." Xiao Wanzi later confronted Autumn Hua, who admitted to telling Mei Shiqing about her casino trip out of concern. Xiao Wanzi, acknowledging her worry, forgave her but warned her not to repeat it.
She then shared the information she had gathered: her father and Lady Yingyao were safe in Dragon Stockade, but Nan Batian had taken an interest in Lady Yingyao, implying a dire situation if they delayed. Xiao Wanzi immediately declared her intention to rescue them, but Autumn Hua cautioned her against acting alone, given Dragon Stockade's formidable forces.
Xiao Wanzi, however, insisted she had a new plan that required Autumn Hua and Qiaoyun's help, making Autumn Hua promise once again to keep it secret from Mei Shiqing. Returning to her room, Mei Shiqing and Siheng attempted to entice Xiao Wanzi with news of new dishes at Felicity Tavern, noting her unusual quietness. But Xiao Wanzi remained unresponsive. Realizing she was genuinely upset, Mei Shiqing dismissed Siheng, put on his Lord Nocturnal-elf mask, and sat before Xiao Wanzi.
Episode 19 Recap
Mei Shiqing, disguised as Lord Nocturnal-elf, sat across from Pelletie, feigning distress over where to catch villains. He asked for her input as his assistant, mentioning a playboy causing trouble in the east and robbers in the west, and lamenting the difficulty of choosing. Xiao Wanziremained indifferent, eventually walking away, leaving Mei Shiqing to wonder why she was still so angry and what he should do, feeling that "it's too hard to be a man."
Pelletie, Qiaoyun, and Qiuhua waited on a path known to be used by casino workers delivering silver to Dragon Stockade on the first day of each month. When a carriage approached, Qiaoyun pretended to twist her ankle, blocking their way. The casino's men, noticing Qiaoyun's beauty, were delayed. Qiuhua then intervened, creating a diversion. As this unfolded, Xiao Wanzisecretly hid underneath the carriage, successfully gaining entry into Dragon Stockade. Inside the stockade, Xiao Wanzifound Lu Yingyao.
Lu Yingyao, touched that Xiao Wanzirisked her life to rescue them, pulled her to a secluded spot to talk. Xiao Wanziexplained she came to save her father, He Yizhi, and Lu Yingyao. Lu Yingyao revealed that He Yizhi was imprisoned by Nan Batian for defending her against his daughter, not enjoying a comfortable life as Xiao Wanzihad been led to believe.
She warned Xiao Wanziagainst rashly attempting a rescue, explaining that she had an escape plan which involved freeing He Yizhi first. While they spoke, Xiao Wanzirecognized the pawnshop owner, whom she had previously encountered, speaking with Master Bao. Lu Yingyao advised Xiao Wanzito leave with the departing casino carriage.
To facilitate Pelletie's escape, Lu Yingyao created a diversion by falsely announcing Master Bao's disappearance to Wu and the casino guards, allowing Xiao Wanzito hide under the carriage and be transported out of Dragon Stockade. Outside the stockade, Qiaoyun and Qiuhua anxiously awaited Pelletie's return. Once Xiao Wanziemerged from the carriage, they inquired about Lu Yingyao and He Yizhi.
Xiao Wanziassured them that Lu Yingyao was safe and actively planning their joint escape, urging them not to act rashly and to trust Lu Yingyao's intelligence. Upon returning to Mei Mansion, they found Mei Shiqing had dispatched many servants to search for Pelletie. Knowing she couldn't hide, Xiao Wanziconfronted Mei Shiqing, who, relieved to see her safe, immediately embraced her.
He scolded her for her reckless behavior, reminding her that as the supposed princess, her disappearance had thrown the entire Mei Mansion into chaos and put them all at risk. Xiao Wanziapologized and explained her actions, reiterating her desire for Lu Yingyao, the real princess, to return to her rightful place in the mansion.
Mei Shiqing, frustrated, reminded her of his true feelings and insisted that he would handle all matters, including Lu Yingyao's rescue, and Xiao Wanziwas not to interfere. Xiao Wanzithen revealed her significant discovery: she had seen the pawnshop owner in Dragon Stockade, confirming his connection to the group and suggesting a link to the attack on Mei Shiqing’s mother. Mei Shiqing acknowledged the crucial information.
As a punishment for her unauthorized actions, he ordered her to write "I will never act without permission" three hundred times, but also rewarded her with a bracelet and a token for her valuable intelligence, which brought a smile to Pelletie’s face. The next day, Mei Shiqing’s servants were overly attentive to Xiao Wanziduring breakfast, making her feel uncomfortable. Siheng then announced Situ Lin’s arrival.
Excited, Xiao Wanzirushed to greet him, much to Mei Shiqing's chagrin, who secretly wondered if he lacked charm compared to Situ Lin. In the front hall, Situ Lin presented Xiao Wanziwith a telescope, an object she had never seen before. She was amazed by its ability to magnify distant objects, like the "Good Luck" inscription on a faraway attic lintel, and immediately took an interest in learning about such inventions and business from Situ Lin.
Despite Mei Shiqing's initial disapproval, he reluctantly joined them at Situ Lin's shop, fearing Xiao Wanzimight be swayed by Situ Lin's charms. At the shop, Situ Lin gave Xiao Wanzia Tangram puzzle and generously offered her any items she liked. He shared business insights, emphasizing various pricing strategies, while Mei Shiqing sternly reminded him about the importance of integrity and honesty in commerce.
Later, Mei Shiqing, finding a moment alone with Xiao Wanziupstairs, pressed her for an answer about her feelings for him. When she hesitated, he declared that he would take her silence as an agreement, then led them away to the streets. While enjoying roasted skewers, Xiao Wanzirealized she had forgotten the Tangram at Situ Lin's shop. She quickly returned to retrieve it, but instead saw a known salt smuggler interacting at the shop.
Suspecting Situ Lin might be involved, she decided to investigate further on her own before reporting to Mei Shiqing, not wanting him to think her rash. The following day, Xiao Wanziwas carving children's toys, hoping to earn money independently, but Mei Shiqing dismissed it as unprofitable and advised against selling them through Situ Lin.
Shortly after, Situ Lin arrived and invited Xiao Wanzito visit an artisan, Master Jiang, in the west of the city, whose workshop was full of unique items. Pelletie, seizing the opportunity to discreetly investigate Situ Lin regarding the salt smuggling, agreed. Mei Shiqing, however, was summoned by his father, so he secretly dispatched Siheng to follow them. At Master Jiang's workshop, Xiao Wanziwas captivated by the many peculiar objects and asked to learn the craft.
Master Jiang agreed to teach her, starting with carving small figures, then progressing to "the gears." Xiao Wanzicarved a masked swordman, which Situ Lin couldn't quite recognize. Xiao Wanzithen cautiously mentioned seeing the salt smuggler in his shop, and Situ Lin feigned surprise and ignorance, requesting to see the smuggler's image. Pelletie, observing his reaction, concluded that Situ Lin seemed genuinely unaware of the smuggling.
Meanwhile, Nan Xiang was preparing a tonic for Master Bao using a recipe from Lu Yingyao. Wu approached, revealing that Master Bao had promised Nan Batian he would marry Xiao Wanziif he captured Lord Nocturnal-elf. Enraged by this news and convinced that Lu Yingyao and Xiao Wanziwere conspiring against her, Nan Xiang stormed towards the prison to confront Lu Yingyao.
As she neared the cell, she overheard Lu Yingyao and He Yizhi discussing a plan to escape by infiltrating Nan Batian’s room. Overwhelmed by anger, Nan Xiang burst into the prison cell and apprehended both of them.
Episode 20 Recap
Nan Xiang, having overheard Lu Yingyao's escape plans with Uncle He, burst into the room, furious that she had been manipulated. She confronted Lu Yingyao, accusing her of using her, deceiving Bao into marrying her, and trying to steal Nan Batian's map. Bao intervened, telling Nan Xiang to stop her accusations and stating that he knew what was going on. Nan Xiang was deeply hurt and angry that Bao believed an outsider over her.
After a heated argument, Nan Xiang left, vowing to get Lu Yingyao. Bao then gently asked Lu Yingyao if she was hurt, promising he would not let anyone harm her. Later, Bao questioned Lu Yingyao about why she had taken Nan Batian's crutch. Lu Yingyao confessed that she was looking for a map because she desperately wanted to leave the stockade. Bao revealed that there was no map.
Instead, the only way to leave was to break the formation outside the stockade, a secret known only to five people: himself, Nan Xiang, Wu, Nan Batian, and the guide. Lu Yingyao was saddened by this revelation, feeling trapped. Bao expressed that he had thought she might have grown accustomed to her life there and to him.
Lu Yingyao apologized, explaining her true desire was to free Bao from Nan Batian's control and prevent him from continuing to hunt Lord Nocturnal-elf, hoping he could return to the right path. She sincerely wished they could meet in another time and place. Bao, in turn, told her he only believed what he saw and knew her true character, assuring her she was the person he liked most in the world.
Meanwhile, Mei Shiqing discovered a peculiar, ugly wooden carving on his desk. Si Heng, his aide, quickly identified it as a carving of Mei Shiqing himself, made by Xiao Wanzi. Mei Shiqing, who initially found it displeasing, reconsidered after Si Heng pointed out the resemblance. Elsewhere, Xiao Wanzi stealthily broke into Situ Lin's shop and took several ledgers from his study. Unbeknownst to her, Situ Lin observed her actions from a hidden vantage point.
Xiao Wanzi brought the stolen ledgers to Mei Shiqing, hoping they would prove Situ Lin's innocence regarding the illicit salt trade, as she still believed him to be a good person. Mei Shiqing teased her about her trust in Situ Lin. Xiao Wanzi admitted she did it to stop Mei Shiqing from "nagging" her and recounted seeing the head of an illicit salt merchant team talking to Situ Lin.
Mei Shiqing warned her that such actions could alarm their target, but Xiao Wanzi assured him that Situ Lin would be away from the shop for a few days. Mei Shiqing made her promise not to take such risks again, jokingly threatening to withhold treats. Xiao Wanzi insisted on returning the books herself to avoid suspicion, a task Mei Shiqing agreed to.
Shortly after, Mei Shiqing instructed Si Heng to invite Rou from Felicity Tavern to the Mei Mansion under the pretense of appreciating a new zither and paintings. Qiaoyun and Qiuhua noticed Rou's arrival and immediately suspected Mei Shiqing was taking advantage of Xiao Wanzi's absence for a rendezvous. They rushed to inform Xiao Wanzi, who was resting. Despite their agitated warnings, Xiao Wanzi, feigning indifference, correctly surmised that Mei Shiqing and Rou were likely discussing Salter Cartel business.
She decided to bring them some late-night snacks as an excuse to enter the study. Upon arrival, she found Mei Shiqing and Rou diligently examining the ledgers. Feeling a bit sheepish, Xiao Wanzi offered to help, but soon drifted off to sleep. Xiao Wanzi awoke in her bed to find Mei Shiqing sitting nearby, Rou having already left.
Mei Shiqing confirmed that while there was no direct evidence, Situ Lin's sales records for salt were unusually low, which he found highly suspicious for a merchant guild president. This revelation disheartened Xiao Wanzi. To lift her spirits, Mei Shiqing attempted to cook for her, but their joint efforts nearly set the kitchen ablaze. They reconciled, promising each other not to engage in dangerous activities anymore
Episode 21 Recap
Xiao Wanzi approached Situ Lin, warning him that someone was following him and to be careful. Situ Lin thanked her, but his expression hardened as Wang Biao appeared behind Xiao Wanzi, and Situ Lin quickly used a drug to knock her unconscious. Xiao Wanzi awoke to find herself trapped in a dungeon, chained, with Situ Lin glaring at her. She realized his true, sinister nature and that he was allied with Wang Biao.
Situ Lin interrogated Xiao Wanzi, demanding to know the identity of Lord Nocturnal-elf. Defiantly, Xiao Wanzi refused to reveal any information, even as Situ Lin choked her. Just as she struggled for breath, Lord Nocturnal-elf burst in, kicking open the door and fending off guards. Situ Lin, seizing the opportunity, entangled Lord Nocturnal-elf in chains, linking him to Xiao Wanzi.
With both of them bound, Situ Lin brutally beat Lord Nocturnal-elf, causing Xiao Wanzi to be hoisted into the air by the connecting chain, inflicting pain on both. Situ Lin then ripped off Lord Nocturnal-elf’s mask, revealing him to be Mei Shiqing. Xiao Wanzi furiously shouted at Situ Lin, trying to protect Mei Shiqing. Situ Lin, angered by her defiance, offered Xiao Wanzi a choice: he would spare Mei Shiqing’s life if she agreed to become his woman.
Xiao Wanzi, however, refused to yield, declaring her willingness to die alongside Mei Shiqing. Enraged, Situ Lin began to strike Xiao Wanzi. Witnessing her suffering, Mei Shiqing unleashed his power, shattering his chains, and kicked Situ Lin away. Situ Lin fled, leaving Mei Shiqing to immediately attend to an unconscious Xiao Wanzi, his face filled with concern. Meanwhile, under Lu Yingyao’s devoted care and prayers, Bao finally regained consciousness, though he remained very weak.
Lu Yingyao went to brew the medicine Liu had prepared for him. While she was gone, Bao secretly pleaded with Liu to help Lu Yingyao leave the mountain, even if it meant sacrificing his own life. Liu expressed his concern that such an attempt would prove fatal for Bao, but Bao insisted he would endure until Lu Yingyao was safely down the mountain. Unbeknownst to them, Lu Yingyao overheard this entire conversation from outside the room.
As she brewed the medicine, thinking of Bao’s selfless desire to protect her, a wave of profound emotion washed over her. Later, Bao, still feeling weak, questioned Liu about the powerful specific medicine. Liu reluctantly confessed that Lu Yingyao had specifically instructed him not to use it, believing it was better to search for a proper antidote that could save them both.
Although understanding, Bao was resolute in his desire to use the strong medicine to quickly regain enough strength to escort Lu Yingyao off the mountain. At that moment, Wu arrived, feigning concern while making sarcastic remarks about Bao’s condition and claiming there was no cure. Lu Yingyao interjected, firmly defending Bao and urging Wu to leave. Outside, Wu exaggerated Bao’s dire state to Nan Xiang, claiming he was as good as dead.
Nan Xiang, disturbed by this news, began to reflect on her past actions, wondering if she had been too persistent in pursuing Bao. Wu, however, continued to speak ill of Bao, further fueling Nan Xiang’s regret before she eventually walked away in sadness. Back at Mei Mansion, Mei Shiqing, concerned about Situ Lin’s escape, dispatched his subordinates to track his movements.
Xiao Wanzi, having recovered from her ordeal in the dungeon, awoke disoriented and immediately rushed out of her room, without even putting on her shoes, frantically searching for Mei Shiqing. Upon finding him, she embraced him tightly, overwhelmed with relief and joy that he was safe. Observing their reunion, Qiaoyun stood by, her heart filled with resentment. News of the “princess’s” recovery quickly spread throughout Mei Mansion.
Her Ladyship, seizing the opportunity, subtly hinted to Mei Changyun about the suspicious circumstances surrounding the “princess” and Mei Shiqing’s injuries. Mei Changyun, though dismissing Her Ladyship, was left with lingering doubts. Mei Shiqing, sensing Xiao Wanzi’s deep affection for him, sought to confirm her true feelings. As he leaned in, Xiao Wanzi, shedding her emotional barriers, softly closed her eyes. Their intimate moment was interrupted by a servant announcing that General Mei wished to see them in his study.
In the study, General Mei questioned them about the cause of their injuries. Mei Shiqing fabricated a story, claiming it was an accident involving a skilled drunkard who had harassed the “princess,” and he intervened, leading to their injuries. However, Mei Changyun’s informants had already discovered the existing conflict between Mei Shiqing and the president of Qing’s Chamber of Commerce (Situ Lin). Despite this, Mei Changyun chose not to expose their lie publicly and allowed them to leave.
Outside, Xiao Wanzi expressed her fear about facing General Mei, asking Mei Shiqing why he didn't tell his father the truth. Mei Shiqing explained that revealing Situ Lin's identity could lead to leaks and involve his father in a dangerous conspiracy. He reassured her, promising to dedicate his time to her. He also offered her a cloak, urging her to take care of herself since she was still recovering.
Later, Qiaoyun confronted Xiao Wanzi privately, reminding her of their past agreement to return Mei Shiqing to the real princess and to suppress any romantic feelings for him. Xiao Wanzi, filled with guilt, admitted that she had broken her promise. She confessed that despite her efforts to resist, she couldn't control her emotions and found herself falling deeper in love with Mei Shiqing.
Qiaoyun pressed further, questioning what would happen when the real princess returned, especially given that Xiao Wanzi had impersonated her, which could bring disgrace to the royal family. Xiao Wanzi, acknowledging her deception, solemnly promised that she would provide the real princess with a proper explanation.
Episode 22 Recap
Xiao Wanzireassured Qiaoyun that she would silently leave once the real princess returned. Qiaoyun had earlier pressed Pelletie, questioning the true princess's fate if Xiao Wanziand Mei Shiqing were genuinely in love. Pelletie, admitting her role as the imposter, promised to give the princess an explanation and depart upon her return, vowing to keep her word. Meanwhile, Bao's condition worsened as Liu confirmed that the current medicine had failed to detoxify him.
Liu suspected that Nan Xiang possessed the antidote but was unwilling to provide it. He believed only Nan Batian could persuade her, but felt he was a nobody to approach the Master. Determined, Lu Yingyao decided to find Nan Batian herself. She tearfully spoke to the unconscious Bao, reminding him of his promise never to leave her and vowing to retrieve the antidote. She then instructed Liu to care for him. Nan Batian confronted Nan Xiang, demanding the antidote.
He chided her fiercely, stressing Bao's vital role in Dragon Stockade and accusing his "insubordinate girl" of jeopardizing his life's work. Nan Xiang retorted, blaming Lu Yingyao for Bao's current state and implying her father was blind to it. Nan Batian, enraged, attempted to strike Nan Xiang with his cane, but a companion stepped in to stop him. Lu Yingyao also pleaded with Nan Xiang to release the antidote.
Feeling cornered and pressured by everyone present, Nan Xiang pulled out a knife and threatened to take her own life. Nan Batian, unwilling to see his daughter harmed, dismissed Lu Yingyao and his companion, hoping to reason with Nan Xiang alone. Nan Xiang defiantly told him she could choose to no longer be his daughter if he wished to harm her.
Frustrated by her unwavering refusal, Nan Batian eventually left her room in anger, muttering about his daughter's unreasonableness and how she did not resemble him at all. Later, Nan Xiang privately called Nan Batian back, presenting him with the antidote. She explained that she had always intended to give it but had been unwilling to lose face in front of Lu Yingyao.
Accepting the antidote, Nan Batian realized that his daughter, much like her mother, possessed a sharp tongue but a soft heart. Nan Xiang affirmed that she never wished for Dragon Stockade to lose Bao, but warned her father that she would later settle accounts with him for his attempt to strike her. After she left, Nan Batian mused on the "dangerous beauty" that Lu Yingyao was. After taking the antidote, Bao gradually began to recover.
Liu confirmed Bao's pulse was strengthening, assuring Lu Yingyao that Bao would be fine, though the widespread poison would necessitate a period of rest. Overjoyed, Lu Yingyao held Bao's hand, softly urging him to recover quickly, as she was waiting for him. Bao later woke up, claiming he was "hard to kill" and that the "Lord of Death" would not accept him. Lu Yingyao immediately called Liu to examine him.
Liu reiterated Bao's good recovery but reminded him that without Lu Yingyao, he would have "been dead." Bao then playfully declared he had "nothing in return but give myself to you." Lu Yingyao playfully scolded him for his impropriety, urging him to focus on recovery before she would prepare him a meal and then take him to see the other brothers in the stockade.
Xiao Wanziwatched Mei Shiqing practice his sword, carefully reminding him to mind the wound on his right hand, though he assured her he had it under control. When he paused, she brought him tea, massaged his shoulders, and later, as he rested, gently fanned him. Mei Shiqing, feigning sleep, secretly opened his eyes and smiled as Xiao Wanzisoftly placed his hands on her face.
Later, as Xiao Wanzipracticed calligraphy with Mei Shiqing, she noticed that Qiaoyun was not the one serving tea. A servant informed them that Qiaoyun was unwell, causing both Xiao Wanziand Siheng to appear concerned. Qiuhua attempted to comfort a despondent Qiaoyun, urging her to accept the situation. Qiaoyun, however, felt a deep injustice for the real princess and disapproved of Mei Shiqing's growing closeness with Pelletie, despite Qiuhua finding Xiao Wanzilovely.
When Siheng arrived with various medicines, having heard of Qiaoyun's illness, Qiuhua left them to talk. Siheng peppered Qiaoyun with questions and remedies, but Qiaoyun, clearly in a foul mood, implied he was the one who needed the medicine. Xiao Wanzithen sought out Qiaoyun, asking if her discomfort was physical or emotional. Qiaoyun admitted her anger and distress upon seeing Pelletie. Xiao Wanzireaffirmed her promise to leave as soon as the princess returned, swearing on her life.
She pleaded with Qiaoyun to allow her to cherish this remaining time with Mei Shiqing, to "deceive myself once." While Qiaoyun acknowledged her own role in Xiao Wanzistaying at the mansion, she expressed deep concern about Xiao Wanzifalling "too deep" into her feelings. Xiao Wanziconfessed that after Mei Shiqing risked his life to save her, she could no longer remain indifferent to him. Qiaoyun reluctantly accepted her promise, hoping everyone would be spared further sadness.
During a meal, Mei Shiqing peeled shrimp for Pelletie, an act of affection noticed by other servants. Xiao Wanziseemed somewhat preoccupied. Pelletie's preoccupation led Mei Shiqing to take her to Qingcheng Tower to enjoy the night scenery. She remarked on how beautiful it still was and how long it had been, though Mei Shiqing reminded her it wasn't long since she had shared a drink with his alter ego, Lord Nocturnal-elf, at that very spot.
Xiao Wanzifondly recalled him taking her flying that day and how incredibly happy she had been. Mei Shiqing acknowledged his occasional distant demeanor, which he feared made her uncomfortable. However, Xiao Wanziquickly reassured him, declaring him the kindest person in her world besides her father, and added that she had grown accustomed to his ways as the dignified Mr. Mei. Mei Shiqing then revealed that his seemingly pretentious nature wasn't innate.
Ten years prior, his father had earned great merit by suppressing bandits, but this success also created many enemies. Preoccupied with wartime duties, his father had neglected Mei Shiqing and his mother. Eventually, bandits discovered their home and stormed in. His mother had hidden him to save his life but was tragically killed. Mei Shiqing confessed that he still saw his mother's suffering eyes every time he closed his own, rendering him unable to sleep due to the haunting pain.
To escape this torment, he had chosen to become the Night Traveller, finding a dual purpose in his sleepless nights: to right wrongs and to secretly investigate his mother's murderer. Xiao Wanzilistened in silence, then softly asked how she could alleviate his pain. Mei Shiqing replied that her constant companionship was all he needed, to which she promised she would never leave his side.
Days later, Bao was strong enough to walk, and he and Lu Yingyao ventured out to visit the other members of the stockade. Some playfully teased him about having a beauty with him now that he was well. Bao joked that he'd happily be poisoned a hundred times if it meant receiving such care from Lu Yingyao. Lu Yingyao, in turn, teased him, promising never to be angry again as long as he remained healthy.
Bao remarked on his unaccustomedness to her sudden kindness. Their outing was interrupted by the sight of Nan Xiang. Lu Yingyao subtly released Bao's hand. Bao called out to Nan Xiang, thanking her for the antidote, but she sharply rebuffed his "fake appreciation," stating she had never considered him a brother and certainly didn't need him as a friend. Angered by his evident closeness with Lu Yingyao, Nan Xiang swiftly departed.
Bao, bewildered, wondered aloud what had upset his sister, but Lu Yingyao advised him not to dwell on it, suggesting Nan Xiang needed time to process recent events. Bao then asked Lu Yingyao if she would continue to treat him with such kindness once he was fully recovered, but she offered no direct answer. Later, Lu Yingyao brought a meal to He Yizhi in his cell.
He Yizhi, having noted her absence during Bao's illness, had already suspected her developing affections. Lu Yingyao then confessed that she had truly fallen in love with Bao. He Yizhi affirmed her feelings, advising her to cherish such a rare connection. When Lu Yingyao expressed uncertainty about their future given their circumstances, He Yizhi, guided by his philosophy of "dealing with whatever comes," suggested the immediate priority was to persuade Bao to leave the mountain with them.
This advice filled Lu Yingyao with hope, and she promised He Yizhi they would all leave the mountain together once Bao was fully healed. With a renewed sense of purpose for her feelings, Lu Yingyao meticulously dressed and began to adorn herself. She picked up the hairpin Bao had given her. Just then, Bao entered, delighted to see her holding his gift. He offered to help her put it on, and as he leaned in, Lu Yingyao softly closed her eyes.
Episode 23 Recap
Xiao Bao carefully placed a hairpin in Pelletie's hair, their faces drawing close. He felt his heart race, and she, sensing his sudden withdrawal, snapped back to reality. Xiao Bao asked Xiao Wanziif she would play the Guqin he had just repaired for him that night, to which she agreed. He then offered her another gift. Later that evening, Xiao Wanziplayed the Guqin for Xiao Bao while he listened quietly.
After the song, Xiao Bao began to say his goodbyes, but Xiao Wanzistopped him and initiated a kiss. Stunned at first, Xiao Bao quickly embraced her, deepening the kiss. The next day, Xiao Bao was trying to come up with new names for himself, rejecting suggestions from Xu Ergou, who humorously retorted that his own name, Xu Ergou, was better than Xiao Bao's choices.
Xu Ergou then informed Xiao Bao that Nan Batian wanted to see him at Centre Hall for an important matter. Upon arrival, Nan Batian inquired about Xiao Bao's recovery from his injuries, which Xiao Bao confirmed was progressing well. Nan Batian then introduced Situ Lin, the Head of the Chamber of Commerce, as an old brother from his past. Situ Lin acknowledged Xiao Bao’s formidable reputation in martial arts and stated he was relying on both of them for assistance.
Nan Batian explained that Situ Lin had previously commissioned them to capture Lord Nocturnal-elf. Lao Wu, Nan Batian's subordinate, quickly interjected, blaming an unnamed "nagging girl" for the previous failure. Situ Lin then revealed he had uncovered Lord Nocturnal-elf's true identity: Mei Shiqing, the third son of the General's Palace. Xiao Bao, recognizing Mei Shiqing as a former adversary, confirmed he had often fought him to a stalemate.
Situ Lin explained that Mei Shiqing had actively opposed his Salter Cartel and had discovered his true identity, necessitating his capture. Nan Batian, citing the costs of maintaining his bandit force and the risks of antagonizing the powerful Mei family, demanded a higher price. Situ Lin reluctantly agreed to an additional seven hundred taels of gold. Nan Batian sealed the deal, promising Mei Shiqing’s head within three days.
After Situ Lin departed, Nan Batian praised Lao Wu for his cunning in negotiations and then informed Xiao Bao that he would entrust the mission to him. He promised to grant any request if Xiao Bao succeeded. Driven by his desire to be with Pelletie, Xiao Bao fiercely pledged to kill Mei Shiqing and deliver his head. Xiao Bao called out to Pelletie, and when she emerged from her room, she found it filled with flowers.
Holding a bouquet, Xiao Bao proposed marriage, earnestly promising to cherish her forever and fulfill all his vows. Pelletie, visibly pleased, accepted the flowers with a happy smile. Following this, Xiao Bao began rigorous sword practice before dawn each day. Pelletie, initially unaware of his true intentions, brought him meals on time, concerned about his health. When Xiao Bao finally revealed his plan to go to the General's Palace to kill Mei Shiqing, Pelletie's mood darkened.
Xiao Bao explained that Mei Shiqing was Lord Nocturnal-elf, a long-time adversary who had threatened their stockade. Despite their previous stalemates, Xiao Bao was determined to defeat him this time, promising Xiao Wanzithat once the mission was complete, he would ask Nan Batian for permission to retire from bandit life so they could leave the stockade and live the life she desired.
Later, Nan Xiang, Nan Batian's daughter, delivered a wedding dress to Pelletie, sternly warning her against any tricks from her father. Xiao Wanzioffered Xiao Bao ginseng soup, and he noticed the wedding dress and mistakenly believed she was preparing for their marriage, delightedly stating that he would also prepare. He then went to find a groom's outfit, deciding to borrow one from Nan Batian.
However, upon entering Nan Batian's room, Xiao Bao was shocked to find his adoptive father already clad in wedding attire. Nan Batian boldly announced his intention to marry Pelletie, claiming she had already promised herself to him. He then told a distraught Xiao Bao that only by killing Mei Shiqing would he relinquish Pelletie. Unable to believe this, Xiao Bao confronted Pelletie.
She confessed that she had agreed to marry Nan Batian to obtain an antidote to save Xiao Bao's life. In a flashback, Xiao Wanzihad desperately pleaded with Nan Batian to save Xiao Bao. Nan Batian, manipulating her, implied his daughter Nan Xiang would not provide the antidote if Xiao Wanzistood between them. He challenged Xiao Wanzito prove how much Xiao Bao meant to her, and she ultimately pledged to do anything, even marry him, for the antidote.
Back in the present, Xiao Bao was devastated by Pelletie's sacrifice, feeling his life was not worth such a cost. He clung to the hope that Nan Batian would uphold his promise to let them marry if Mei Shiqing was killed, but Xiao Wanzidesperately tried to convince him that Nan Batian was lying and would never honor his word. Still clinging to hope, Xiao Bao decided to confront Nan Batian.
As he approached Nan Batian's room, he overheard a conversation between Nan Batian and Lao Wu. Lao Wu questioned if Nan Batian truly intended to let Xiao Bao marry Pelletie. Nan Batian scoffed, stating that women were interchangeable and he was merely testing and using Xiao Bao.
Lao Wu then suggested that if Xiao Bao successfully killed Mei Shiqing, Nan Batian should proceed with marrying Xiao Wanziwhile Xiao Bao was away, ensuring Xiao Bao would have no choice but to give up once it was "a done deal." Nan Batian praised Lao Wu's cunning plan. Enraged by the deception, Xiao Bao burst into the room and began smashing Nan Batian's treasured wine collection, yelling about being deceived and used by liars.
Xiao Wanzirushed to stop him, but Xiao Bao, embracing her shoulders, vowed through gritted teeth that he would definitely kill Mei Shiqing, and she should trust him and wait for his return. Meanwhile, Lao Wu informed Nan Batian that Xiao Bao had gone down the mountain to kill Mei Shiqing, regretting the smashed wine.
Nan Batian, unfazed, stated that if Xiao Bao succeeded and brought back Mei Shiqing's head, the seven hundred taels of gold would compensate for any lost wine. Lao Wu expressed concern about Xiao Bao’s current resentment and the possibility of failure, but Nan Batian confidently asserted that he had his own plans to ensure Mei Shiqing's demise. Elsewhere, Xiao Wanziwas seen by a pavilion, recalling an agreement with Qiaoyun and appearing downcast.
Mei Shiqing approached her, offering to take her for a meal to lift her spirits. After some playful banter about eating rabbit meat versus her favorite sweet and sour spare ribs, they decided on the latter and headed out. Just as they were leaving, Xiao Bao appeared, armed with explosives. Xiao Bao clarified he wasn't there to kill him, but to ask for a favor.
Episode 24 Recap
Lu Yingyao sat alone in her room, reflecting on the tumultuous events of the past few days. Her wedding dress lay draped on the table, a stark reminder that her forced marriage to Nan Batian was imminent. She clutched a dagger, prepared to end her life rather than marry him, calling out for Xiaobao. Just as she contemplated the drastic act, Xiaobao burst in, having knocked out the guards. He assured her, "I am here.
Don't worry," and she, relieved, declared, "I knew you would come. You would come to save me." Xiaobao tenderly called her a "fool," telling her, "You are my world. How could I ever leave you?" With Lu Yingyao now dressed in men's clothes, she urged him, "Then let's go find my dad now," and they quickly made their escape. Meanwhile, Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi were busy creating a diversion by setting fire to the dry grass in Qinglong Stockade.
Xiaobao, along with Lu Yingyao, then rescued He Yizhi from his cell. He Yizhi, surprised to see Lu Yingyao in male attire, remarked on her beard, but they quickly urged him to leave, as time was of the essence. Unaware of the escape, Nan Batian was celebrating his impending marriage in the great hall, encouraging his men to drink to their heart's content.
When a subordinate reported a fire, Nan Batian dismissed it as a bad omen on his wedding day, ordering them to put it out quickly. After a while, he noticed the bride had not yet arrived and instructed his daughter, Nan Xiang, to fetch her. Nan Xiang, initially reluctant, eventually agreed to help her father just this once. As she went to Lu Yingyao's room, she encountered Xiaobao, who was pretending to help with the fire.
Nan Xiang asked him where he had been and why he wasn't sad about Nan Batian marrying "the busker" (Lu Yingyao's assumed identity). Xiaobao cleverly spun a tale about preparing a gift for Nan Batian and reassured Nan Xiang that no one could snatch someone from Qinglong Stockade. Nan Xiang, seemingly convinced, continued to the room, while Xiaobao, Lu Yingyao, and He Yizhi seized the opportunity to hurry away.
Upon reaching Lu Yingyao's room, Nan Xiang found it in disarray and realized the bride had fled. She rushed back to Nan Batian to report the news. Enraged, Nan Batian immediately ordered his right-hand man, Wu, to seal all exits of the stockade and conduct a thorough search. When a subordinate reported that not only the "busker" (Lu Yingyao) and He Yizhi but also Xiaobao were missing, Nan Batian realized he had been betrayed.
He cursed Xiaobao, calling him "despicable," "shameless," and a "traitor," and commanded Wu to take all the brothers down the mountain to "purge the traitors." Wu, secretly pleased at the prospect of eliminating Xiaobao, who he saw as a rival for the chieftain position, rallied the men to pursue the fugitives. Nan Xiang, however, had no desire for Lu Yingyao to become her stepmother.
She instructed her subordinates to only pretend to search for the escaped bride, then lay down in the middle of the road to rest. Meanwhile, outside the stockade, Xiao Wanzi was growing anxious as she and Mei Shiqing waited for Xiaobao, Lu Yingyao, and He Yizhi. Mei Shiqing tried to reassure her, saying Xiaobao would handle everything. Soon, the trio appeared.
When Xiaobao heard both Lu Yingyao and Xiao Wanzi call He Yizhi "Father," he mistakenly thought Xiao Wanzi and Lu Yingyao were long-lost sisters. Lu Yingyao promised to explain everything once they reached the Felicity Tavern, and Mei Shiqing led them there. At the Felicity Tavern, Lu Yingyao, surprised, asked Xiaobao how he had come to cooperate with Mei Shiqing, his supposed arch-rival.
Xiaobao explained that he had pretended to capture Mei Shiqing, but in reality, he had helped him uncover a mole within the Mei household, thus earning Mei Shiqing's trust and cooperation. Mei Shiqing added that Xiao Wanzi had also played a part in convincing him. Mei Shiqing then arranged for everyone to rest and provided He Yizhi with his favorite "daughter red" wine. Xiaobao, in high spirits, invited Mei Shiqing for a drink.
Xiao Wanzi then offered Lu Yingyao a luxurious rose petal bubble bath. While bathing, Lu Yingyao and Xiao Wanzi reflected on their swapped identities. Xiao Wanzi admired Lu Yingyao's beauty and elegance, feeling that Lu Yingyao was truly suited to be Mei Shiqing's wife, while she herself only possessed the "break the rock on chest" kind of temperament.
Lu Yingyao, in turn, wondered how she could marry Mei Shiqing if their identities were swapped back, as her heart now belonged to Xiaobao. After her bath, Lu Yingyao asked Xiao Wanzi about her experience at the Mei mansion. Xiao Wanzi described Mei Shiqing's kindness, how he taught her to read, cooked for her, tucked her in, and always appeared to protect her in times of danger.
Despite this, Xiao Wanzi reiterated her promise to Qiaoyun and Qiuhua to leave the Mei mansion and restore Lu Yingyao's true identity as soon as possible, asking only for one night to bid Mei Shiqing farewell. Lu Yingyao, however, urged her to reconsider, reminding her that their love for their respective partners was paramount. She proposed they continue the charade, hoping they would find a solution later. Xiao Wanzi, trusting Lu Yingyao, agreed.
Later, Xiaobao, having a drink with Mei Shiqing, spoke effusively about his love for "Xiao Wanzi" (unaware it was actually Lu Yingyao), describing her as a "gift from heaven" and vowing to marry no one else.
Mei Shiqing, realizing Xiaobao was still oblivious to the identity swap, listened patiently as Xiaobao continued to praise "Xiao Wanzi's" inner and outer beauty, even going so far as to compare her favorably to Mei Shiqing's "princess" (the real Xiao Wanzi), much to Mei Shiqing's silent annoyance. Meanwhile, He Yizhi, having dinner with Xiao Wanzi, teased her about her relationship with Mei Shiqing and whether he would soon be a grandfather. Xiao Wanzi playfully denied it.
Realizing the Mei family's wealth and not wanting to disgrace Xiao Wanzi, He Yizhi solemnly promised to give up gambling and excessive drinking. Soon after, Qiaoyun and Qiuhua found Lu Yingyao. They tearfully apologized for failing to protect her, but Lu Yingyao absolved them, taking responsibility for her own elopement. She then shared her experiences in Qinglong Stockade, mostly praising Xiaobao's character and multiple acts of courage.
Qiaoyun, sensing Lu Yingyao's growing affection, cautiously asked if she had fallen in love with Xiaobao. Lu Yingyao openly admitted, "Yes, I wanna marry him." When Qiaoyun lamented that a princess should not marry a bandit, Lu Yingyao firmly defended Xiaobao, stating that he was the kindest person she had ever met and that "bandits also have good and bad ones." She insisted that she had made the right choice.
Later that night, Xiaobao approached Lu Yingyao, still confused about why both she and Xiao Wanzi called He Yizhi "dad." Lu Yingyao decided it was time to reveal the full truth of the identity swap. Xiaobao was utterly stunned, repeating, "You're a princess?" He initially became nervous, feeling that a "bandit" like himself could not be worthy of the Ninth Lord's daughter. Lu Yingyao, sensing his fear, playfully threatened to break up with him.
Xiaobao quickly recovered his usual confident demeanor, declaring that he feared nothing and that her identity didn't matter as long as they were together. He emphatically stated his extreme joy and excitement at discovering she was a real princess. Lu Yingyao reassured him that her status was secondary to their love, even offering to give up her title for him.
Deeply moved by her unwavering affection and all she had sacrificed for him, Xiaobao promised to be good to her for the rest of his life. He then asked for her true name, and she replied, "Lu Yingyao." Xiaobao, charmed, asked if he could call her "Yaoyao."
Episode 25 Recap
Xiao Wanzi visited Lu Yingyao, delivering gifts from the Mei Mansion. Lu Yingyao inquired about her experience as a princess, to which Xiao Wanzi complained it was "too boring," requiring constant attention to etiquette, even making meals unenjoyable. Lu Yingyao advised her that being a princess simply meant being "choosy," disliking this and that.
Xiao Wanzi then described Mei Shiqing as having a "bad temper," a "cold" demeanor with "dead eyes," and constantly "picking on me," but confessed that beneath his icy exterior, he had a "tender heart" and was "a bit cute." Lu Yingyao, in turn, described her sweetheart, Bao, as "not discreet," "not hygienic," and a "big boaster," yet she found joy in their time together. Both young women concluded that love often requires no reason.
Back at the Mei Mansion, Xiao Wanzi decided to implement Lu Yingyao's advice, becoming overtly particular during a meal. She deemed a round pastry unsuitable because it would stick to her nails, and later insisted that osmanthus liquor should be served in a jade cup to match her attire. Mei Shiqing, noticing her uncharacteristic behavior, was perplexed.
When he mentioned going to Felicity Tavern without her, Xiao Wanzi, fearing he was upset, quickly explained that her pickiness was an attempt to better impersonate a princess and avoid exposure. Mei Shiqing, realizing Lu Yingyao's influence, simply told her to "just be yourself." Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi then went to Felicity Tavern, where Mei Shiqing revealed that Tao Juzheng had linked his mother's death to Mei Changyun's past extermination of the Salter Cartel.
Arou reported that the former Salter Cartel leader, Li Tianlong, had been a powerful figure in Qing Province, even feared by the government and Dragon Stockade, before General Mei Changyun's campaign. Li Tianlong was wounded in battle and subsequently died, leading to the cartel's decline. Further investigation revealed that a significant portion of the Salter Cartel's funds had been secretly transferred to Fulongchang, a merchant guild specializing in pastries, whose headquarters were in the capital and owned by Dong Daman.
Mei Shiqing deduced that the pastry business was merely a front for money laundering, indicating a powerful, hidden force from the capital behind the Salter Cartel, making their investigation increasingly perilous. Xiao Wanzi suggested Mei Shiqing ask his father directly for more information. Mei Shiqing then visited Mei Changyun, who, recognizing his son’s unusual visit, sensed he sought something. Mei Shiqing directly inquired about the connection between his mother's death and the Salter Cartel's demise.
Mei Changyun initially resisted discussing the painful past but, moved by Mei Shiqing's persistent pleas, recounted that a decade ago, he, in his youthful impulsiveness, had petitioned the court to suppress the rampant Salter Cartel. Knowing its ruthless leader, Li Tianlong, he had hidden Mei Shiqing and his mother in a secluded villa before the operation. Tragically, the information was leaked, leading to his wife's murder, though Mei Shiqing miraculously survived.
Mei Changyun expressed profound guilt, calling himself an unworthy father. Mei Shiqing realized his father believed the killer was long dead and chose not to reveal that the true culprits were still at large, fearing it would only deepen his father's sorrow. Meanwhile, Nan Batian met with Situ, who, impatient for Mei Shiqing's death, demanded an update. Nan Batian explained that recent events at his stockade had caused delays, though he dismissed rumors of his adopted son stealing his woman.
He assured Situ that Mei Shiqing frequented Felicity Tavern and that he had set a trap to eliminate him there. Situ warned Nan Batian not to disappoint him again. Later, at Felicity Tavern, Mei Shiqing, Xiao Wanzi, Bao, and Uncle He were enjoying a hotpot meal when members of the Dragon Stockade suddenly burst in. A violent skirmish ensued. Mei Shiqing delivered a fatal blow to the leader, demanding the mastermind's name.
In his dying moments, the leader retaliated by throwing poisonous white powder into Mei Shiqing's eyes, blinding him. Xiao Wanzi frantically urged Siheng to rush Mei Shiqing back to the Mei Mansion for medical attention. Back at the mansion, Xiao Wanzi watched over a temporarily blinded Mei Shiqing. Mei Changyun paced anxiously, while Her Ladyship, Mei Shiqing's stepmother, added to the tension by remarking that while the bleeding was staunched, the doctor believed his eyes might be permanently damaged.
Enraged, Mei Changyun threatened to confine his own son, Shiyuan, to the woodshed for making a flippant comment, prompting Her Ladyship to quickly usher Shiyuan away. Mei Changyun then pressed Mei Shiqing about the attack, who confirmed it was the Dragon Stockade. Mei Changyun urged him to cease his dangerous activities and live a peaceful life with the princess.
Mei Shiqing angrily retorted that he had uncovered clues about his mother's killer, but Mei Changyun dismissed it, insisting he had personally beheaded Li Tianlong and eradicated the Salter Cartel years ago. Xiao Wanzi corroborated Mei Shiqing's claims about encountering salt smugglers, but Mei Changyun remained unconvinced, criticizing Mei Shiqing for being disobedient. Mei Shiqing retorted that his father was "blind" to the truth. Mei Changyun stormed off, vowing to find other reputable doctors.
Worried about Mei Shiqing's condition, Uncle He and Bao also expressed their concern, with Uncle He blaming himself for Mei Shiqing's injury. Xiao Wanzi arrived, distraught, confirming that numerous doctors had declared Mei Shiqing's blindness irreversible. Seeing her despair, Lu Yingyao recalled a reclusive "blind doctor" specializing in eye ailments.
She explained that he had once been a renowned physician but was blinded by a noble he offended in the capital, leading him to become an eccentric recluse in Qing Province who no longer treated patients. Xiao Wanzi immediately decided to seek him out, opting to go alone despite Uncle He's offer to accompany her, believing her sole presence might be more effective with the short-tempered doctor. Xiao Wanzi found the blind doctor's residence and respectfully sought his help.
The doctor, gruff and reclusive, denied being a doctor and stated he no longer treated patients, declaring he wouldn't even help "the Emperor." Xiao Wanzi revealed Mei Shiqing's identity as the young general of the Mei army and mentioned his heroic deeds as "Lord Nocturnal-elf," hoping to appeal to his conscience. Unmoved, the doctor sternly told her to leave.
Undeterred, Xiao Wanzi vowed to stay until he agreed, kneeling outside his door through a night of rain and the harsh sun the following day, nearly fainting from exhaustion. When the doctor eventually emerged, Xiao Wanzi clung to his leg, pleading for Mei Shiqing's life and offering her own in exchange. To test her sincerity, the doctor presented her with a bottle he claimed contained poison. Without hesitation, Xiao Wanzi drank it, silently bidding farewell to her husband and father.
Amused by her unwavering devotion, the doctor revealed it was a tonic he made for himself and that she was fortunate to have consumed it. Xiao Wanzi, still believing she was dying, inquired how much time she had left to see her loved ones. The doctor, growing impatient, urged her to move quickly, assuring her she was not poisoned. Xiao Wanzi then brought the blind doctor to the Mei Mansion, explaining her overnight absence to Mei Changyun.
Immediately, Shiyuan, along with Her Ladyship and Mei Changyun, expressed skepticism, mocking the blind doctor's own blindness. Xiao Wanzi defended the doctor, clarifying that his blindness was caused by a noble, not by a lack of skill, but Shiyuan accused him of boasting and harming patients. Mei Shiqing, however, intervened, declaring his trust in the blind doctor, which convinced Mei Changyun to allow the treatment. After examining Mei Shiqing, the blind doctor provided a simple prescription to Qiaoyun.
Shiyuan snatched it, dismissing the common herbs as useless. The blind doctor retorted that Shiyuan, despite having seeing eyes, was "blind in his heart" and beyond help. Mei Changyun instructed Qiaoyun to fetch the medicine, while Her Ladyship quickly silenced Shiyuan. Xiao Wanzi then reassured Mei Shiqing, promising to find other doctors if this treatment failed, and apologized for causing him worry with her overnight absence.
Episode 26 Recap
Xiao Wanzi suggested that Mei Shiqing, who had been cooped up indoors, get some fresh air in the garden. Mei Shiqing responded that he never felt bored when she was by his side. Xiao Wanzi expressed concern about constantly seeking doctors and disturbing the household, but Mei Shiqing assured her he didn't mind because her efforts were for his own good. She then vowed to find a way to cure his eyes.
Mei Shiqing recalled their first meeting, lamenting that he hadn't opened his eyes to fully appreciate her adorable appearance and wished he had seen her more often after she entered the Mei residence. Xiao Wanzi, teasingly, remembered his arrogant face. Mei Shiqing then wondered when he would be able to see her again, and Xiao Wanzi promised that it would be soon.
Later, as Xiao Wanzi offered Mei Shiqing his medicine, he found it too bitter and playfully requested a reward, which she provided with a kiss. Mei Shiqing then took Xiao Wanzi to a place of great significance to him: the secluded house where his mother had hidden him during a past tragedy. He explained that only a few cautious servants knew of this place.
Xiao Wanzi questioned how the bandits had discovered their whereabouts, a mystery that Mei Shiqing also pondered. He also revealed that as he was about to be found, a mysterious person had hidden him again before slipping away, leaving Mei Shiqing to wonder about that individual's identity and connection to the bandits. Siheng reported that someone was following them.
Mei Shiqing, playing on his perceived blindness, instructed Siheng to wait until Situ Lin and the Salter Cartel became overconfident, then activate their hidden agents. Meanwhile, Wang Biao informed Situ Lin that Mei Shiqing was indeed blind and had visited his deceased mother's old residence. Situ Lin dismissed this as a sign of weakness, believing Mei Shiqing was merely crying over his lost mother, and instructed his men to resume their illicit salt business.
Wang Biao also mentioned that Felicity Tavern had located Crazy Chen, prompting Situ Lin to order his capture. Upon their return, Mei Changyun questioned Mei Shiqing about his outing, expressing frustration when his son avoided a direct answer. After Mei Changyun left, Xiao Wanzi told Mei Shiqing that his father was genuinely concerned, and Mei Shiqing decided to tell him everything once all current matters were resolved.
Mei Changyun, while out, purchased a "Yingfish" toy, recalling a time when a young Mei Shiqing had wanted one, but he had refused, insisting his son focus on martial arts and studies. He later brought the toy to Mei Shiqing's room. After Siheng departed, Mei Changyun asked about the blind doctor's medicine, to which Mei Shiqing replied there was no improvement.
Mei Changyun criticized Xiao Wanzi's "nonsense," but Mei Shiqing defended her, noting she had risked her life for the doctor. Angered, Mei Changyun left the toy behind. Xiao Wanzi discovered the Yingfish, and Mei Shiqing, touching it, understood his father's hidden affection. Siheng informed Mei Shiqing that the Salter Cartel, under Situ Lin's instruction, had begun large-scale illicit salt trafficking across all its operations.
Recognizing Situ Lin's impatience, Mei Shiqing ordered all his hidden agents to act that night, using a unified signal to take down the entire Salter Cartel. The agents executed the plan flawlessly, raiding and seizing illicit salt from all the cartel's stores, warehouses, and granaries without a single loss. Wang Biao relayed the devastating news to Situ Lin, who, enraged, swore to personally kill Mei Shiqing.
Xiao Wanzi expressed concern to Mei Shiqing that Situ Lin might retaliate, but Mei Shiqing reassured her, calling Situ Lin a "toothless wolf" whose power was now gone. They discussed interrogating the captured Salter Cartel members to secure confessions and written statements. Suddenly, Siheng burst in with news from Felicity Tavern: Crazy Chen had escaped that morning, and his hideout had been located.
Mei Shiqing declared it "good news" and decided to go after Crazy Chen alone, despite Siheng's worries for his safety, sending Siheng to gather more intelligence on the Salter Cartel instead. Mei Shiqing arrived at Crazy Chen's hideout and, when Crazy Chen hesitated to appear, threatened to burn the place down. Crazy Chen emerged, cautiously asking if Mei Shiqing's promise of safety was genuine. Just then, Situ Lin ambushed Mei Shiqing, expecting him to be blind.
Mei Shiqing agilely dodged the attack, then dramatically removed his blindfold, revealing his sight was restored and stating that his eyes had recovered. As the two men fought, Crazy Chen unexpectedly cried out "Li Tianlong!" at Situ Lin, calling him a "treacherous bastard" for betraying him after he had helped kill people. Fearing further revelations, Situ Lin turned his attack on Crazy Chen. Mei Shiqing attempted to intervene, but Situ Lin seized Crazy Chen before making his escape.
Before succumbing to his wounds, Crazy Chen gasped to Mei Shiqing that his mother's hiding place had been revealed ten years prior by a "rock-breaker with a cat mask." Mei Shiqing returned to his room, his face heavy with dread. Xiao Wanzi, overjoyed to see his eyes had recovered, quickly noticed his somber mood.
Mei Shiqing then asked her, with a chilling intensity, if she and He Yizhi were the "only" people in Qingzhou City who performed "break rock with cat masks." Xiao Wanzi confirmed it, adding she had told him before, sensing his distress. Wishing he was mistaken, Mei Shiqing recounted Crazy Chen's dying words. Disbelieving, Xiao Wanzi rushed to He Yizhi's room to confront him.
Under Xiao Wanzi's distraught questioning, He Yizhi confessed that he had indeed provided the address of Mei Shiqing's mother to Penglai Casino for money. However, he claimed he was desperate to support Xiao Wanzi and pay off gambling debts, and genuinely had no idea it was Mei Shiqing's mother or that the information would lead to murder. Xiao Wanzi was devastated, grappling with the truth that her own father had caused Mei Shiqing's mother's death.
Seeing his daughter's profound anguish, He Yizhi tried to flee, but Xiao Wanzi stopped him. He Yizhi then hurried to Mei Shiqing's room, intending to apologize and beg for mercy. He admitted his actions, pleaded with Mei Shiqing not to blame Xiao Wanzi, and even offered his own life or to disown his daughter. But Mei Shiqing, overwhelmed by despair and rage, was beyond listening and furiously ordered He Yizhi out of his room.
Episode 27 Recap
He Yizhi emerged, tearfully telling his daughter, Xiao Wanzi, that he had tried everything, but Mei Shiqing refused to see him and told him to leave. Xiao Wanzi, understanding that Mei Shiqing would not forgive her in this situation, decided to leave with her father. He Yizhi protested, not wanting to burden her and acknowledging her as an adult, but Xiao Wanzi insisted they leave together.
Meanwhile, Lu Yingyao and Xiao Bao agreed to depart from Qing City to evade Nan Batian's relentless pursuit, envisioning a new life in an isolated place where they could have many children. Before leaving, Lu Yingyao insisted they bid farewell to Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi. Upon encountering a distraught Xiao Wanzi and He Yizhi, Lu Yingyao inquired about their sadness. After learning the reasons, she asked Xiao Wanzi if she truly intended to avoid Mei Shiqing.
Xiao Wanzi sadly replied that she did not wish to be the source of Mei Shiqing's pain. Later that night, Xiao Bao found Mei Shiqing drinking alone on the steps and offered to join him. He urged Mei Shiqing to confront the real killer rather than wallow in sorrow. Mei Shiqing lamented his failure to identify the person who wielded a staff to kill his mother years ago, clearly recalling an emerald embedded in the staff that struck his mother.
Instantly recognizing the description, Xiao Bao identified the killer as Nan Batian. Mei Shiqing was filled with regret for not realizing it sooner. Xiao Bao then revealed that Nan Batian had removed the emerald ten years prior to conceal his involvement, a fact known by only a few. Mei Shiqing vowed to make Nan Batian suffer, and Xiao Bao pledged his full assistance.
At Dragon Stockade, Situ warned Nan Batian that with Crazy Chen and Fan dead, Mei Shiqing would soon uncover his involvement. When Nan Batian feigned ignorance, Situ revealed that he was aware of Nan Batian's actions ten years prior. Situ emphasized the stockade's weakened state, warning that if the Mei's army attacked, it would be too late for Nan Batian to regret his current inaction.
Nan Batian admitted his desperate situation and asked Situ for advice, believing it was too late to recruit more men. Situ, however, assured him, instructing him to focus on recruitment while he personally would distract the Mei's army. Impressed by this capability, Nan Batian surmised that Situ must have powerful backing and requested an introduction to this "powerful man." Situ promised to facilitate an introduction once the immediate crisis was over.
Nan Batian immediately ordered Wu to descend the mountain and intensify recruitment efforts. Lu Yingyao questioned Xiao Bao about his decision to join Mei Shiqing in battling Nan Batian. Xiao Bao confessed that, despite Nan Batian being his adoptive father, he had always been coerced into villainy. He credited Lu Yingyao with helping him understand right from wrong, realizing he was merely a disposable tool for Nan Batian. Lu Yingyao supported his newfound path.
Xiao Bao promised that after helping Shiqing resolve the conflict, they would leave together and wander the world. Their moment was interrupted when Wu and his brothers spotted them on the street and swiftly surrounded them. Rou informed Mei Shiqing that Dragon Stockade was aggressively recruiting, a development Mei Shiqing had already considered.
Rou offered to accompany Mei Shiqing to eliminate Nan Batian, but Mei Shiqing cautioned that Nan Batian's formidable martial arts skills meant even their combined strength might be insufficient. He declared that only the Mei's army could truly contend with Dragon Stockade and resolved to persuade his father to deploy troops. Mei Shiqing expressed concern about the defensive formations surrounding the stockade, which could hinder an army's advance. Just then, Xiao Bao arrived, offering to guide them to Dragon Stockade.
When Mei Shiqing inquired about Lu Yingyao, Xiao Bao revealed that she had been overpowered by Wu and his numerous men and abducted. Mei Shiqing quickly devised a plan: he would go to his father to secure military support, while Mei Siheng and Xiao Bao would proceed to scout Dragon Stockade. He entrusted Rou with the care of Xiao Wanzi and He Yizhi, specifically asking her to tell Xiao Wanzi to wait for his return.
At Dragon Stockade, Nan Batian expressed his satisfaction with the recruitment to Situ, who confidently reiterated that the Mei's army would be diverted, leaving Qing City ripe for the taking. Wu then brought in Lu Yingyao. Nan Batian, mistaking her for Xiao Wanzi, cruelly declared he would marry her after conquering Qing City, only to then inflict endless suffering upon her. Lu Yingyao defiantly stated she would rather die, but Nan Batian asserted his control.
Situ's attention was drawn to a jade pendant on Lu Yingyao's waist, a distinctive royal accessory. He questioned her about it, but Lu Yingyao claimed it was a gift. Nan Batian dismissed this, scoffing at the idea of a street performer owning such an item. However, Situ, recalling an earlier conversation with Xiao Wanzi where she had dismissed being called a "princess" and expressed a desire to learn a trade for self-reliance, grew suspicious.
This memory solidified his belief that Lu Yingyao was the true princess, and Xiao Wanzi had assumed her identity. Mei Shiqing approached his father, Mei Changyun, who had recently recovered his eyesight, to request the dispatch of troops. He informed his father of Dragon Stockade's aggressive recruitment and their impending attack on Qing. Mei Changyun was furious at the bandits' audacity.
Mei Shiqing then revealed the devastating truth: Nan Batian, acting under Li Tianlong's orders, was responsible for his mother's murder. This news left Mei Changyun even more enraged, vowing to utterly destroy Nan Batian. Mei Shiqing argued that, both for the safety of Qing's citizens and to avenge their mother, the Mei's army had to fight.
However, Mei Changyun then presented an imperial edict, ordering him to immediately lead all his forces to reinforce Yong Province, which was reportedly in a critical state, by tomorrow morning. Mei Shiqing found this highly suspicious, noting that earlier intelligence indicated no need for reinforcements in Yong Province. He suspected the timing of the Mei army's dispatch, coinciding with Dragon Stockade's preparations, was no mere coincidence.
Mei Changyun, bound by the imperial decree, could not deploy the army against Nan Batian. Accepting this, Mei Shiqing declared he would rely on the loyal members of Felicity Tavern to protect Qing and confront Nan Batian. Rou arrived to inform Xiao Wanzi and He Yizhi that their current location was no longer safe and she intended to take them to a temple in the south of the city for refuge.
Xiao Wanzi, instantly concerned for Mei Shiqing, learned from Rou that Nan Batian was amassing forces to attack Qing City, and Mei Shiqing was leading a counter-assault on the stockade, now aware that Nan Batian was his mother's killer. Xiao Wanzi, despite knowing she and Mei Shiqing could not be together, pleaded with Rou to take her along to the battlefield, assuring her she would not be a hindrance.
He Yizhi echoed her sentiments, vowing to atone for his past sins and refusing to flee. Despite her initial hesitation to defy Mei Shiqing's instructions, Rou eventually conceded. Simultaneously, at Dragon Stockade, Nan Batian hosted a boisterous feast for his newly recruited men, promising them a life of prosperity and declaring their freedom from hiding, as the Mei's army was now diverted to Yong Province. He toasted to the imminent conquest of Qing City.
During the festivities, he brazenly offered his daughter, Nan Xiang, in marriage to any man who displayed exceptional valor in battle, treating her as a mere commodity to incite his followers. Disgusted, Nan Xiang attempted to leave, but Nan Batian stopped her, accusing her of seeking out Xiao Bao. Nan Xiang confronted her father, expressing her profound disappointment that she, like Xiao Bao, was merely a tool for him to manipulate his men.
Nan Batian, unmoved, threatened to break her legs if she dared to depart. As their argument reached a boiling point, a frantic subordinate burst in, announcing that Mei Shiqing and Xiao Bao had launched an attack on the stockade. Mei Shiqing and Xiao Bao launched an attack on the stockade. Nan Batian swiftly moved to meet them with his staff, and Mei Shiqing and Xiao Bao, intent on capturing the leader, directly confronted him.
Nan Batian's formidable martial arts skills overwhelmed them both. He struck Xiao Bao, rendering him unconscious. Mei Shiqing was kicked away and vomited blood. Nan Batian then gloated, reminding Mei Shiqing that he had killed his mother and now intended to kill him as well. As Nan Batian prepared to deliver the fatal blow, He Yizhi bravely intervened, rushing forward to cling to him and urging Mei Shiqing to flee.
Xiao Wanzi, joining her father, also shouted for Mei Shiqing to escape, instructing him to leave her father behind. Mei Shiqing, wounded and hesitant, was led away by Xiao Wanzi. Mei Siheng then arrived, engaging Nan Batian, which allowed Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi to escape. Soon after, Mei Changyun's army arrived. Mei Siheng quickly went to check on a wounded He Yizhi. Meanwhile, Xiao Bao regained consciousness, immediately called out for Lu Yingyao, and set off to find her.
Xiao Wanzi led an injured Mei Shiqing in their escape, but Nan Batian relentlessly pursued them to the outskirts and eventually caught up. Xiao Wanzi urged Mei Shiqing to escape if he found an opportunity. Then, Xiao Wanzi bravely took a blow meant for Mei Shiqing, was thrown into the air, and plunged down a cliff.
Standing over the severely injured Mei Shiqing, Nan Batian cruelly declared that Mei Shiqing's mother had died by his hand, and now his beloved woman had met the same fate. He then prepared to deliver the final blow, promising to send Mei Shiqing to reunite with them.
Episode 28 Recap
Nan Batian threw Xiao Wanzi off a cliff and then stepped on a wounded Mei Shiqing, taunting him that he had killed both Mei Shiqing's mother and his "woman," Xiao Wanzi, and would now send Mei Shiqing to join them. Just then, Mei Changyun arrived, engaging Nan Batian in a fierce battle that saw neither gain the upper hand.
Mei Changyun helped Mei Shiqing up and confronted Nan Batian, revealing that the Mei family army had destroyed the Dragon Stockade, and today would be Nan Batian's last. Nan Batian, in turn, confessed that he had allied with Li Tianlong to teach Mei Changyun a lesson because Mei Changyun had destroyed the Salter Cartel and Nan Batian feared his own Dragon Stockade would be next. Enraged, Mei Shiqing declared that Nan Batian would pay for his blood debts today.
Mei Changyun swiftly captured Nan Batian, allowing Mei Shiqing to seize Nan Batian's crutch and stab him, killing him. Mei Shiqing then ran to the edge of the cliff, desperately searching for Xiao Wanzi, but could not see her. He then collapsed. Mei Shiqing later woke up in his room, still weak, and immediately asked about Xiao Wanzi. Mei Siheng regretfully informed him that all searches down the mountain had yielded no results.
Distraught, Mei Shiqing insisted on continuing the search himself, despite his injuries. Lu Yingyao, Qiaoyun, and Rou arrived, also looking for Xiao Wanzi. Lu Yingyao sent Qiaoyun back to care for the injured He Yizhi, instructing her to assure He Yizhi that they would definitely bring Xiao Wanzi back safely. Lu Yingyao and Rou fanned out to search, while Xiao Bao went to check on Mei Shiqing. Soon after, Qiuhua handed Mei Shiqing a letter.
Upon reading it, Mei Shiqing reacted with a mix of relief and determination, then left. The others, curious, read the letter and discovered that Xiao Wanzi was alive and in Situ Lin's custody, with a clear instruction that only Mei Shiqing was to come for her, or her life would be forfeit. Meanwhile, Situ Lin, who had rescued Xiao Wanzi, gently tried to feed her medicine.
However, Xiao Wanzi resisted fiercely, telling him not to use her to lure Mei Shiqing, as they were now sworn enemies, and Mei Shiqing would never come for her. Situ Lin, who already knew she was not the true princess, embraced her, pleading with her to stay with him, promising she would be the happiest woman in the world.
Xiao Wanzi angrily pushed him away, calling him a lunatic and questioning his obsessive desire for her given Mei Shiqing was his sworn enemy. Situ Lin, hurt and furious, questioned why she couldn't love him like she loved Mei Shiqing. Just then, a subordinate announced Mei Shiqing's arrival. Situ Lin, confirming Mei Shiqing's presence, glared at Xiao Wanzi, vowing to make her watch Mei Shiqing die. He then dragged her into the courtyard, ordering his men to kill Mei Shiqing.
Mei Shiqing, fighting alone against multiple attackers, held his own, prompting Situ Lin to grab a crossbow. Xiao Wanzi quickly pushed Situ Lin, causing his first arrow to miss Mei Shiqing and hit his subordinate instead. Situ Lin, determined, then shot Mei Shiqing in the leg, announcing his intention to avenge his father, Li Tianlong. Situ Lin then aimed another arrow at Mei Shiqing, but Xiao Wanzi rushed to Mei Shiqing, hugging him tightly.
At that moment, a mechanism was triggered, and Situ Lin revealed that Xiao Wanzi was bound with explosives that would detonate in just a short time. Xiao Wanzi, accepting her fate, told Mei Shiqing to live well, then turned and embraced Situ Lin, intending to die with him. But Mei Shiqing swiftly cut the chains on Xiao Wanzi, securing the explosives around Situ Lin, and carried Xiao Wanzi away just as the explosives detonated, destroying the entire courtyard.
Mei Shiqing brought Xiao Wanzi to visit He Yizhi, who was recovering from his injuries. He Yizhi, despite his wounds, immediately pleaded with Mei Shiqing not to blame Xiao Wanzi for the past, offering to serve Mei Shiqing as repayment. Mei Shiqing, however, remained silent, simply asking He Yizhi to explain exactly what happened that fateful day.
He Yizhi confessed that he had accumulated a large gambling debt, and to protect Xiao Wanzi, the casino thugs forced him to locate the hiding place of a wealthy woman, claiming they only intended to steal. He Yizhi, unaware of the true gravity of the situation, did as he was told. He later realized that the "wealthy woman" was Mei Shiqing's mother. On the day of the incident, he was forced to be a lookout.
While there, he saw a young boy, Mei Shiqing, who was about the same age as his own daughter, Xiao Wanzi. Overcome by a sense of duty, he hid the boy, saving him from the murderers. Mei Shiqing then realized that He Yizhi was the mysterious figure who had hidden him all those years ago, meaning He Yizhi had saved his life twice. Both Mei Shiqing and He Yizhi were visibly moved to tears by this revelation.
As Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi walked through the streets, Mei Shiqing remarked on Xiao Wanzi's unusual quietness. He admitted that after desperately searching for her in the valley, he realized his greatest fear was losing her. Xiao Wanzi reciprocated, saying she also did not want to leave him, and expressed her desire to spend the rest of her life with him. Their intimate moment was interrupted by Mei Shiqing's rumbling stomach.
Xiao Wanzi then took him to a wonton stall, where she purchased all the wontons available. Mei Shiqing was puzzled until Xiao Wanzi began distributing them to hungry orphans. She explained that she often did this, relating to the children's plight as some revealed their parents were killed by Dragon Stockade bandits while working for Changlong Pharmacy. Xiao Wanzi pledged to ensure they would not go hungry again, seeing in them echoes of her own difficult childhood.
Mei Shiqing watched, deeply moved. Back at the Mei residence, Mei Siheng announced that Mei Changyun had returned from Yong Province. Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi rushed to greet him. Mei Changyun, though demoted by the court for his actions, was relieved to see Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi safe and sound, feeling that his family's reunion was all that mattered.
He praised Mei Shiqing for eliminating the Dragon Stockade and suppressing the Salter Cartel, calling it a great service to the people of Qing Province. Mei Shiqing, however, noted that the Salter Cartel issue was not fully resolved, as he had uncovered Situ Lin's connections to the capital, and Situ Lin's fate remained uncertain. Mei Changyun reassured his son, promising his full support in all future endeavors.
To celebrate, Mei Changyun decided to host a family feast and invited all of Mei Shiqing's friends, including Xiao Bao. At the banquet, Mei Changyun lauded Xiao Bao's valor in helping Mei Shiqing defeat the Dragon Stockade and, instead of gold, presented him with an imperial armor that had been bestowed upon him by the emperor for his past achievements, to Xiao Bao's delight. Everyone then took their seats, raising their cups for a joyful evening of celebration.
After the feast, Xiao Wanzi, Lu Yingyao, and Xiao Bao went to the city gate tower to admire the view. Xiao Bao and Lu Yingyao announced their decision to leave Qing Province for a period to travel the world. Lu Yingyao explained that she had spent her life secluded and now desired to experience the "great spring light" described in poems, believing it was fate for them to live a free and joyful life.
Though saddened by their departure, Xiao Wanzi wished them well, encouraging them to "go around the world and eat all cuisines," but urged them to return and visit. Meanwhile, Qiaoyun and Qiuhua watched from afar. Qiaoyun expressed her concern that her mistress, Lu Yingyao, was choosing a difficult life with a bandit instead of marrying a lord. However, Qiuhua countered that Lu Yingyao had never looked happier, leading Qiaoyun to wistfully send off her mistress, tearfully accepting her happiness.
A few days later, Xiao Wanzi complained to Mei Shiqing about being bored in the Mei residence, wanting to go out, but Mei Shiqing suggested she practice calligraphy. Qiaoyun then rushed in with urgent news: an imperial decree had arrived. It summoned Mei Shiqing to the capital to be rewarded and honored for his success in suppressing the bandits, and it also commanded the princess to immediately return to the capital for a family visit.
Episode 29 Recap
Xiao Wanzi was concerned about their secret being exposed. Qiaoyun delivered urgent news: the palace had sent a letter summoning Mei Shiqing to the capital for his achievements in suppressing bandits, and the princess was ordered to return home immediately for a visit. Qiaoyun feared that Liu, the Ninth Lord's trusted butler, would discover Xiao Wanzi's true identity. Mei Shiqing assured them he would handle it.
He instructed Qiaoyun and Siheng to retrieve Lu Yingyao and Xiao Bao, while Qiuhua was to stall Liu. Mei Shiqing then promised Xiao Wanzi that once this matter was resolved, he would marry her publicly as Xiao Wanzi. Qiaoyun and Siheng quickly set off. Siheng tried to impress Qiaoyun by boasting about his horseback riding skills and inviting her to ride with him, but Qiaoyun chose her own horse, leaving Siheng admiring her bravery.
Xiao Wanzi, disguised with a veiled hat, feigned illness, coughing and claiming light sensitivity to avoid detection. Mei Shiqing's father, Mei Changyun, was concerned and urged her to recover quickly, also reminding Mei Shiqing to treat the Ninth Lord's envoys well. Xiao Wanzi managed to deceive Mei Changyun, who believed her illness was genuine. When Liu arrived, Qiuhua greeted him, but upon hearing the princess was unwell, Liu insisted on seeing her.
Xiao Wanzi, still veiled, received Liu's greetings, who offered well wishes for her marriage. Mei Shiqing explained Xiao Wanzi's supposed light sensitivity and persistent cough. Liu, highly suspicious, questioned if a doctor had been called and why the Mei family hadn't informed the Ninth Lord's Mansion earlier, suggesting the princess be sent back to the capital for treatment. Mei Shiqing retorted, defending the Mei family's care for the princess.
After a tense exchange where Mei Shiqing tried to delay the trip due to the princess's health, Liu emphasized the Ninth Lord's chosen auspicious day for her return. Realizing Liu's deep suspicion, Mei Shiqing eventually agreed to depart the next day, hoping to find an opportunity for the swap en route. Xiao Wanzi could only wish for Qiaoyun and Siheng to bring Lu Yingyao and Xiao Bao back swiftly.
Meanwhile, Lu Yingyao and Xiao Bao enjoyed their time in Xi Province. Lu Yingyao expressed her newfound joy in a free life, and Xiao Bao reciprocated, cherishing their ordinary life together. Lu Yingyao found Xi Province charming, and Xiao Bao, despite feeling he hadn't provided her a rich enough life, readily agreed to extend their stay. He then enthusiastically suggested they try a famous noodle restaurant he frequented.
As they entered the noodle shop, a dishevelled Nan Xiang, still seeking revenge against Xiao Bao for her father's death and the destruction of her bandit camp, recognized them. She vowed they wouldn't live happily. While Xiao Bao and Lu Yingyao stepped away to buy flowers from a young girl, Nan Xiang seized the opportunity to secretly poison their noodle bowls. Back at their table, as they were about to eat, Qiaoyun and Siheng dramatically burst in.
Qiaoyun urgently informed Lu Yingyao that the Ninth Lord's Mansion was dispatching people to bring her home, and Liu was likely already at the Mei family's residence. They had to leave immediately, thus preventing Xiao Bao and Lu Yingyao from consuming the poisoned noodles. Nan Xiang watched them leave, furious but helpless. Xiao Wanzi remained restless with worry about Qiaoyun's mission, but Mei Shiqing reassured her, explaining that the journey back would provide ample time for the identity swap.
He planned to send a letter to Siheng with the exact time and location for the exchange, promising Xiao Wanzi's safety. Soon, Liu arrived, urging their immediate departure. Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi bid farewell to Mei Changyun and boarded the carriage for the capital. Along the way, Mei Shiqing deliberately halted the caravan at an inn before Jiang Province, instructing Qiuhua to arrange an overnight stay.
Liu objected, pointing out it was still early and they could reach Jiang Province by nightfall. Mei Shiqing, however, fabricated a concern about bandits on the road, effectively strong-arming Liu into agreeing to stop. Siheng received Mei Shiqing's letter, learning that they were to meet at a post house before Jiang Province. Lu Yingyao, eager to reunite, immediately decided they should head there. Xiao Bao, however, seemed to ponder the message more deeply.
As Lu Yingyao and Xiao Bao arrived near the post house, Qiaoyun scouted ahead. Xiao Wanzi, inside her room with Mei Shiqing, was impatient for the swap. Qiaoyun confirmed Lu Yingyao and Xiao Bao were outside. Xiao Wanzi wanted to switch immediately, but Mei Shiqing cautioned against it due to the crowd and suggested the more secluded lush forest ahead. He sent Qiaoyun back to relay the message to Lu Yingyao and Xiao Bao to await their signal.
Mei Shiqing tried to calm Xiao Wanzi by offering her tea, which she refused. As the carriage entered a dense forest, Mei Shiqing ordered it to stop, again citing the princess's discomfort to dissuade Liu from proceeding. Xiao Bao and Lu Yingyao, following Mei Shiqing's earlier instructions, moved to meet them. Mei Shiqing sent Siheng to check on their whereabouts. However, Nan Xiang suddenly appeared, confronting Xiao Bao and Lu Yingyao.
She furiously blamed Xiao Bao for her father's death and the destruction of her home, accusing him of betraying his own people for Lu Yingyao. Ignoring Xiao Bao's attempts to reason with her, Nan Xiang, driven by hatred and unrequited love for Xiao Bao, lunged at Lu Yingyao with a knife. At that moment, Liu, growing impatient with the delay and despite Qiuhua's attempts to stall him, insisted on finding Mei Shiqing and the princess.
Mei Shiqing, seeing Liu approaching and with Nan Xiang's attack unfolding, had no choice but to continue the journey with Xiao Wanzi, hoping for another opportunity to switch. Arriving at the Ninth Lord's Mansion, Xiao Wanzi was terrified, but Mei Shiqing urged her to remain calm and adapt to the situation. They entered to meet the Ninth Lord. Xiao Wanzi, still veiled, greeted her father. The Ninth Lord immediately demanded she remove her veil.
Mei Shiqing intervened, reiterating that the princess suffered from a light-sensitive illness. The Ninth Lord, visibly displeased with his daughter's condition, warned Mei Shiqing to take better care of her and ordered Liu to summon an imperial physician, only to be informed it was already done. Undeterred, the Ninth Lord approached Xiao Wanzi and forcibly removed her veil. Seeing a stranger, he immediately cried "Assassin!" and called for guards.
Mei Shiqing tried to explain, but the situation escalated until Lu Yingyao, entering the mansion at that crucial moment, commanded everyone to stop. Lu Yingyao then explained the entire convoluted story to her astonished father, the Ninth Lord, who found it an "unheard-of marvel" but immediately grasped the seriousness of the "deceiving the Emperor" offense. Lu Yingyao bravely spoke of Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi's love, but the Ninth Lord cut her off, refusing to discuss it.
He did, however, express gratitude for Xiao Bao saving her and promised him a reward, wanting to meet him. Lu Yingyao, overjoyed, immediately left to fetch Xiao Bao. The Ninth Lord, in a private move, then instructed Liu to summon Mei Changyun. While awaiting Lu Yingyao, Xiao Wanzi, fearing for their lives, expressed her anxiety to Mei Shiqing. He, however, remained composed, claiming to have divined that things would turn out well, though Xiao Wanzi was skeptical.
When Lu Yingyao returned, she informed Xiao Wanzi that the Ninth Lord still wished for them to swap back identities to preserve the marriage alliance and avoid charges of deceiving the Emperor, a proposition Mei Shiqing did not readily accept. Lu Yingyao recounted the failed swap in the forest due to Nan Xiang's unexpected appearance.
She explained that during Nan Xiang's knife attack, Xiao Bao had intervened, causing Nan Xiang to lose her footing and fall to her death from the cliff. Xiao Bao, deeply saddened, then carefully buried Nan Xiang, expressing his regret and hope for her peace. Despite the tragic turn of events, Lu Yingyao decided that for her own happiness and in light of her father's invitation, she would introduce Xiao Bao to him.
Encouraged by Mei Shiqing's "divination," Lu Yingyao went to bring Xiao Bao. Xiao Bao hesitated, feeling his identity as a former bandit made him unworthy to meet the prestigious Ninth Lord. Lu Yingyao gently encouraged him, reminding him he couldn't avoid his father-in-law forever. She led him before the Ninth Lord. Xiao Bao respectfully greeted the Ninth Lord, who immediately questioned his name and surname. Xiao Bao explained he was an orphan and had no surname.
Lu Yingyao suggested the Ninth Lord bestow one upon him. Xiao Bao humbly expressed his immense gratitude for such an honor. However, the Ninth Lord, who had been silently writing, suddenly erupted in anger, condemning Xiao Bao's humble status and accusing him of trying to curry favor. He immediately ordered his guards to seize Xiao Bao, proclaiming him a "double-dyed bandit." Lu Yingyao cried out in protest, asking what he was doing.
Episode 30 (Ending) Recap
The Ninth Lord quickly shifted his demeanor, viewing the plans of Xiao Wanzi and Lu Yingyao as mere foolishness. Standing outside the mansion, Xiao Wanzi saw soldiers approaching her, prompting her to cry for help. Mei Shiqing rushed to her side, requesting that the soldiers imprison him as well. Inside the cell, Mei Shiqing expressed concern for Lu Yingyao, wondering how her father might be pressuring her outside.
Shortly after, Lu Yingyao herself arrived in the prison, explaining to a shocked Bao that she had requested to be there, believing they would be safer together. Mei Shiqing affirmed their unity, declaring they would face their fate together. Meanwhile, Mei Shiqing confided in his attendant, Si Heng, that he found the Ninth Lord's sudden summons back to the capital suspicious, suspecting it was linked to the Salter Cartel case.
He recalled that Rou had previously discovered a suspicious sum of money flowing into the Prosperous Store. Believing they needed to act quickly, he ordered Si Heng to immediately go to the Prosperous Store and apprehend Dong Daman. Unbeknownst to them, Situ Lin was already carrying out his master's orders. He ambushed Dong Daman's sedan, knocking out his escorts.
Situ Lin informed Dong Daman that his boss was troubled by the events in Qing Province and ordered him to close the Prosperous Store and leave the capital immediately, going as far as possible. Dong Daman agreed, viewing it as the best course of action. However, Situ Lin then revealed he had to ensure Dong Daman's departure personally, killing him on the spot.
Si Heng arrived moments later, only to find Dong Daman dead, lamenting that he was a step too late. Situ Lin reported back to the Sixth Lord, confirming Dong Daman's death. The Sixth Lord, who had seen Situ Lin grow up and whose own father, Li Tianlong, had served him, expressed disappointment in Situ Lin's handling of the Qing Province situation, chastising him for lacking foresight.
The Sixth Lord revealed that he had been the one to praise Mei Shiqing to the Emperor for his success in eliminating the Salter Cartel and Dragon Stockade after his supposed marriage to the princess, prompting the Emperor to summon them. Situ Lin, however, reported that the real Lu Yingyao had returned to the Ninth Lord's Mansion. The Sixth Lord was unconcerned, stating that merely circulating rumors about a fake princess and ensuring the Emperor knew would suffice.
He then elaborated on his scheme: the Emperor would be furious upon hearing that the Mei family had neglected the princess, allowing her to be held captive in a bandit's stronghold, and then replaced her with an impostor. The Emperor would then order the Sixth Lord to bring them for questioning.
At that point, the Sixth Lord planned to accuse Mei Shiqing of arrogance and resentment over his father's demotion, claiming Mei Shiqing attacked his bodyguards, forcing the Sixth Lord to kill him in self-defense. When Situ Lin questioned the lack of concrete evidence, the Sixth Lord assured him that his own bodyguards would testify, as would people from the Ninth Lord's Mansion, even suggesting Situ Lin stab him to create more convincing proof.
Situ Lin, though hesitant, ultimately deferred to the Sixth Lord's command. Meanwhile, the Ninth Lord confronted Mei Changyun, accusing him of a heinous crime. Mei Changyun confessed his guilt, explaining that he had never met the true princess until receiving the Ninth Lord's secret letter. The Ninth Lord's priority was to resolve the issue by having Lu Yingyao and Mei Shiqing marry as originally planned.
Mei Changyun, however, expressed concern that the young couple, especially Mei Shiqing and Xiao Wanzi, who were deeply in love, would refuse and suffer greatly if separated. He proposed adopting Bao as his son, thus making him a member of the Mei family, and having Bao marry the princess. The Ninth Lord was outraged, refusing to allow his daughter to marry a "bandit" and storming off. The next day, the Ninth Lord summoned Lu Yingyao and Mei Shiqing.
He accused Xiao Wanzi and Bao of committing a grave crime, declaring they should be executed. Lu Yingyao, deeply disappointed, asked her father if he truly viewed her as merely a tool. She then threatened to die alongside Bao and Xiao Wanzi if he harmed them. The Ninth Lord, infuriated by her defiance, reminded them of their impending audience with the Emperor.
To save Bao and Xiao Wanzi, both Lu Yingyao and Mei Shiqing reluctantly agreed to go through with their marriage. After they left, the family steward, Liu, voiced his concerns to the Ninth Lord about leaving Bao and Xiao Wanzi alive, suggesting it could lead to future complications. He proposed secretly eliminating them the next day while Lu Yingyao and Mei Shiqing were at the palace. Unbeknownst to them, Lu Yingyao overheard this chilling conversation.
The following morning, as the carriage awaited to take Lu Yingyao and Mei Shiqing to the palace, Lu Yingyao insisted on seeing Bao and Xiao Wanzi first. She claimed she needed to explain her decision to marry Mei Shiqing to them, hoping they would accept it. Steward Liu, believing her, granted her access to the prison. Inside, Lu Yingyao secretly revealed her father's and Liu's murderous plot to Bao and Xiao Wanzi.
She informed them of her plan to rescue them and hide them in a small house once owned by her nanny. As they attempted their escape, Steward Liu confronted them. Lu Yingyao retorted that she had overheard his conversation with her father. A skirmish ensued, but Mei Changyun intervened, fighting Liu and allowing the four to flee. As they made their escape from the Ninth Lord's Mansion, the Ninth Lord arrived, furious at Mei Changyun for causing a disturbance.
Mei Changyun, however, declared he had something crucial to report to the Ninth Lord. Lu Yingyao led Bao and Xiao Wanzi to her nanny's secluded small house, assuring them of its safety. Bao expressed concerns about the safety of Lu Yingyao and Mei Shiqing going to the palace after helping them escape, and also worried about Mei Changyun's fate.
Lu Yingyao reassured him that her father valued his reputation above all else and would never let it be known that his daughter had been kidnapped. She hinted that Mei Changyun had a more important task to attend to. Suddenly, the Sixth Lord and Situ Lin appeared, surrounding the house. The Sixth Lord ordered Mei Shiqing's capture. Mei Shiqing, feigning surprise to see Situ Lin alive, asked why the Sixth Lord was there with him.
The Sixth Lord openly admitted his presence, remarking that he hoped to see them astonished. Mei Shiqing boldly challenged the Sixth Lord, revealing his awareness of the Sixth Lord's entire machinations, from sending Mei Changyun to Yong Province to orchestrating their return to the capital, and how he had been under constant surveillance. The Sixth Lord, pleased that Mei Shiqing understood, declared that he knew even more.
The Sixth Lord arrogantly boasted that this was "his capital" and that Mei Shiqing and his companions were "going to die anyway," so revealing his plans was of no consequence. Lu Yingyao countered, reminding him that they were en route to see the Emperor, who would surely punish him and investigate his motives if any harm befell them.
The Sixth Lord scoffed, asserting that he had already informed the Emperor that the Mei family had abandoned the princess to a bandit's lair and replaced her with an impostor, inciting the Emperor's fury. He claimed the Emperor had ordered him to bring them back for questioning, but now, he announced, "you can't go."
Mei Shiqing then sarcastically recounted the Sixth Lord's false narrative: Mei Shiqing, inflated by his Qing Province achievements, resented his father's demotion, attacked the Sixth Lord, and was consequently killed. The Sixth Lord elaborated, adding that Mei Shiqing, in a fit of madness, also killed the princess who had just escaped from the stockade, before fighting him to the death. To solidify his fabricated story, the Sixth Lord dramatically stabbed himself, proclaiming the wound as proof of Mei Shiqing's attack.
He announced that Mei Changyun had already been apprehended and that he was there to arrest them for deceiving the Emperor. Situ Lin, for his part, warned Mei Shiqing of the dire consequences of his actions and threatened to kill them all. At this critical moment, Mei Shiqing, seeking to buy time, offered to tell the Sixth Lord's fortune by analyzing the character "Wang" (王). Intrigued, the Sixth Lord agreed.
Mei Shiqing interpreted the character's three horizontal strokes as representing heaven, earth, and humanity, with the vertical stroke symbolizing a direct path to power, suggesting the Sixth Lord aimed not merely to be a duke, but to be "the Emperor." He revealed that the Sixth Lord's illicit salt trade was a means to secretly amass wealth for this grand plan.
Pressed for more information, Mei Shiqing continued, warning that "Wang" (王, lord) sounded similar to "Wang" (亡, death/doom) in Chinese, prophesying a tragic end if the Sixth Lord pushed too far. The Sixth Lord demanded to know how Mei Shiqing knew all this. Mei Shiqing calmly stated that killing Dong Daman had not erased all traces.
A flashback revealed a dying Dong Daman instructing Si Heng to ensure his wife and children left the capital and to seek information from his wife. This implied Si Heng had indeed acquired incriminating ledgers and information from Dong Daman's wife. Mei Shiqing then revealed that all the evidence was now where the Sixth Lord least wanted it to be: before the Emperor.
Simultaneously, at the Ninth Lord's Mansion, Mei Changyun confirmed to the Ninth Lord that the evidence against the Sixth Lord was irrefutable, and that the Sixth Lord was desperately trying to eliminate all witnesses. He warned that the Sixth Lord had already informed the Emperor about the fake princess, posing a threat to both the Ninth and Mei Mansions.
Mei Changyun urged the Ninth Lord to recognize the Sixth Lord's true intent of rebellion and to act decisively to prevent a catastrophe. The Ninth Lord, realizing the gravity of the situation, agreed that they had no choice but to "make a try" and immediately went with Mei Changyun to face the Emperor. Back at the small house, the Sixth Lord, realizing Mei Shiqing's "calculating" mind, furiously ordered his men to kill him.
Just then, Mei Changyun arrived with troops, declaring that the Emperor was aware of the Sixth Lord's treachery and had ordered his arrest. A fierce battle erupted. Situ Lin bravely defended the Sixth Lord but was ultimately killed by the Sixth Lord's own sword during the chaotic fight. Mei Changyun seized the opportunity to subdue the Sixth Lord. With the Sixth Lord's rebellion swiftly quelled, Mei Changyun returned to inform Mei Shiqing and his companions.
He explained that although the deception of the fake princess was a grave crime punishable by death for their entire families, the Emperor, considering their merits in eliminating the Salter Cartel, destroying the Dragon Stockade bandits, and providing crucial evidence against the Sixth Lord, decided to grant them clemency. Mei Changyun further revealed that Queen had interceded on their behalf, leading the Emperor to fulfill their true wishes.
Xiao Wanzi was granted the title of princess and betrothed to Mei Shiqing, the General of Qing. Bao was appointed Deputy General of Qing and was to marry Lu Yingyao. The Ninth Lord, though "totally surprised and confused," had no choice but to accept the imperial edict. Mei Changyun joyfully declared that after enduring so many hardships, they had finally found their "wishes fulfilled" and a "happy ending."
On their wedding day, under magnificent golden halls, the two couples entered for their ceremony. As they bowed to heaven and earth, then to their parents, and finally to each other, a slight worry lingered about another mix-up. However, as the grooms lifted their brides' veils, they confirmed their true loves, dispelling all fears and leaving them to embrace their long-awaited happiness.
