Under the Power Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Under the Power Synopsis

Yuan Jinxia, a gifted female constable of Liushan Yamen, was in a feud with each other with the ruthless Imperial Guard, Lu Yi because of a case.

Jinxia thought she would never meet him again in her life, but things went athwart.

The court money to repair the river disappeared, Jinxia was ordered to go to Yangzhou to assist Lu Yi to investigate the case and retrieve the lost official funds for the court.

Because of the shocking secret case, they worked together to solve it.

They went from mutual dislike to admiration and then fell in love.

However, Jinxia was actually the orphan of the Xia Ran case, carrying the feuds of family between her and Lu Yi.

In the end, the two lovers went through hardships, to save the people, fight against the Japanese invaders, eliminate the traitors, put aside family feuds.

They joined forces against the enemy, broke through the shackles of the world, and bravely came together.

Under the Power Recap

Episode 1 Recap

In the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty, the powerful Grand Secretary Yan Song orchestrated the wrongful beheading of Grand Secretary Xia Ran. Following this, Yan Song systematically eliminated other political rivals, solidifying his and his son's immense power across the court. By the 37th year of the Jiajing era, Japanese pirates, led by Wang Zhi, launched rampant attacks on the Ming Dynasty's coastal cities.

In the same year, the Ministry of War's coastal defense map was stolen, prompting Lu Yi, son of the Embroidered Uniform Guards' commander Lu Ting, to be tasked with its investigation. Inside the Imperial Prison, the sounds of punishment echoed. Lu Yi observed a prisoner who, despite suffering under torture, continued to deny everything.

Known for his ruthless methods, Lu Yi offered the man a chance: if he could guess why he was imprisoned in three questions, he would be spared. The prisoner, though claiming ignorance, inadvertently revealed his knowledge of the Ministry of War and a recent loss.

Lu Yi deduced that the prisoner already knew the reason for his imprisonment, pressing him until he admitted the coastal defense map was stolen and that Cao Kun, a Director of the Ministry of War, was the prime suspect. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia, disguised as a young man, entered a bustling restaurant with her colleague Yang Yue. Without a word, she brazenly took a table full of dishes and began to eat with gusto.

The annoyed diners demanded the waiter remove her, but he was startled into compliance by Jinxia’s Department Six badge. Jinxia, while eating, flirted with a young woman named Cao Ling'er. Her companion, Li Dan, expressed his displeasure, but both he and Cao Ling'er sprang to their feet in fear when Jinxia announced herself as Constable Yuan Jinxia of Department Six. Jinxia then produced a wanted poster for Li Dan.

Panicked, Li Dan snatched and ate the poster before lunging at Jinxia. During their struggle, Jinxia's hat was knocked off, revealing her long hair and her identity as a woman. Annoyed, Jinxia swiftly tied her hair back with chopsticks. As Li Dan attempted to flee, Yang Yue threw a wine cup to stop him, but Li Dan used Cao Ling'er as a human shield.

Jinxia rescued Cao Ling'er, remarking that eloping with such a man was not worth it, before giving chase. Yang Yue was left sighing, noting Jinxia’s habit of leaving him to deal with the aftermath. Lu Yi’s investigation revealed that Cao Kun’s promotions were entirely due to Minister of War Xu Lang's recommendation.

While a map theft would harm Xu Lang's newly appointed position, Lu Yi considered the distinct possibility that Cao Kun was a spy planted to infiltrate Xu Lang's circle. Elsewhere, the captured Li Dan desperately pleaded with Yuan Jinxia for his freedom, offering gold bars as a bribe—a sum worth ten times the official reward. Jinxia, feigning concern about losing her job if the bribe became public, accepted the gold.

She then instructed Yang Yue to take Li Dan to prison and ensure Cao Ling'er was well cared for, while she departed for a new assignment, keeping the gold. Shortly after, Lu Yi received a secret report that something had happened at Cao Kun’s mansion.

Yang Chengwan, the head constable of Department Six and Jinxia's master, informed her that a fire had broken out at Cao Kun's residence at midnight, with Cao Kun himself in the room where the blaze occurred. Jinxia, using her toolkit, examined the charred remains. She noted the absence of soot in the victim's mouth and nose, concluding that the person had died before the fire. She also identified a metal fragment in the chest.

Mrs. Cao confirmed it was from an arrow wound Cao Kun sustained on the battlefield ten years prior. Based on this, Jinxia confidently identified the deceased as Cao Kun and concluded that he had been murdered. Yang Chengwan then announced that the Three Judicial Offices had issued a document, promising a reward of fifteen taels of silver to whoever solved the case. A chaotic scramble ensued as constables tried to claim the case.

Amidst the commotion, Jinxia swiftly snatched the document. Suddenly, Lu Yi appeared, seizing the document from her hand and disarming her of her handgun. The Embroidered Uniform Guards then surrounded the Cao mansion. Yang Chengwan quickly apologized to Lu Yi for Jinxia’s brashness. Jinxia, recognizing Lu Yi as Lu Ting’s son, demanded her handgun back. Lu Yi, questioning how a mere constable possessed such a sophisticated weapon, fired it, noting its compact design.

Jinxia proudly stated she had designed it herself, but Lu Yi dismissed its power as "average." Lu Yi ordered Cao Kun's body to be taken to the North Bureau for a re-autopsy. Jinxia, offended, questioned his doubt of her initial inquest. Lu Yi immediately countered, revealing the fragment she found was from a recent piece of iron, not something from ten years ago, thereby proving the body was not Cao Kun.

Lu Yi then asserted that the Embroidered Uniform Guards would handle the case, as Cao Kun was implicated in a case of treason already under their jurisdiction. Jinxia, angered, demanded her handgun back. Lu Yi refused, mocking her by claiming they were "even" for having scared each other. Incensed by his arrogance, Jinxia vowed to solve the case before him.

Upon returning home, Jinxia was taunted by a neighborhood child, but her adoptive mother, Yuan Daxiang, quickly intervened and drove them away. Yuan Daxiang often chided Jinxia for her constable profession, wishing she had married a wealthy pastry maker's son. She knew Jinxia secretly saved money from her meager earnings to search for her birth parents, which made her feel that Jinxia was ungrateful for all the effort she had put into raising her.

Lu Yi received a new report confirming that Cao Kun's daughter, Cao Ling'er, had eloped with a man named Li Dan, and Mrs. Cao had reported the incident to Department Six. Recognizing Li Dan as a key figure, Lu Yi immediately set out to apprehend him. Meanwhile, Jinxia was helping her mother sell dried bean curd at the market when Yang Yue arrived, informing her that Li Dan had escaped from prison.

Moments later, Li Dan himself stumbled into Jinxia's stall, pursued by Lu Yi, who kicked him into Jinxia's goods. Li Dan feigned ignorance about Cao Kun's whereabouts, but Lu Yi ignored his pleas and had him taken away. Undeterred, Jinxia boldly demanded two taels of silver for her ruined stall. Lu Yi casually instructed his men to give her the money. The next day, Lu Yi played a game of Chuiwan with the Emperor.

When Grand Secretary Yan Song arrived, Lu Yi subtly increased the force of his swing, sending a ball narrowly past Yan Song and startling him. Yan Song, despite his alarm, feigned graciousness and praised Lu Yi’s skill. Lu Yi, in turn, humbly dismissed the praise, attributing his position to the Emperor's favor. Later, Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue, disguised as prison cooks, entered the Imperial Prison and located Li Dan.

Jinxia threatened Li Dan with the same gold bars he had used as a bribe, demanding to know Cao Kun's whereabouts. Shocked to see the gold again, Li Dan quickly confessed. Unbeknownst to them, Lu Yi was listening nearby and instructed his guards to stop feeding Li Dan, implicitly acknowledging that Jinxia had succeeded in getting the information. Afterward, Jinxia explained her deductions to Yang Yue: Li Dan’s generous bribe had immediately raised her suspicions.

Her investigation at the Cao mansion revealed that Cao Kun had withdrawn gold bars from his accounts multiple times just before the fire. Jinxia concluded that the gold bars Li Dan possessed were from Cao Kun, and that the elopement with Cao Ling'er was a pre-arranged escape plan. The plan was complicated only when Mrs. Cao, unaware of the arrangement, reported Li Dan to Department Six. Li Dan revealed two potential hiding places for Cao Kun.

Believing Cao Kun's affection for his daughter would keep him in the capital, Jinxia decided she would investigate within the city while Yang Yue searched outside. As they departed, Lu Yi, having overheard their entire conversation, watched them go.

Episode 2 Recap

Following the lead on Cao Kun, Lu Yi secretly tailed Yuan Jinxia to Cao Kun's residence. Jinxia, frustrated that Yang Yue had failed to meet her as planned, was left to wait alone. When Cao Kun finally appeared, she moved to apprehend him, but her skills were no match, and he nearly escaped. Lu Yi intervened, but Cao Kun released a cloud of blinding mist and fled.

Feigning a leg injury, Jinxia clung to Lu Yi, pleading for him to carry her back to the city to avoid being eaten by wild animals. Exasperated by her theatrics, Lu Yi reluctantly lifted her, placed her on a nearby horse, and sent it galloping away, leaving her to fend for herself. Back at Department Six, Jinxia vented her anger on Yang Yue for his absence.

He warned her that offending the Embroidered Uniform Guards would jeopardize her career, but Jinxia was more concerned about her confiscated pistol and the humiliation Department Six would face if the case went unsolved. Despite Lu Yi’s ruthless reputation, she declared him her role model, much to Yang Yue's bewilderment. At the Lu mansion, Lu Ting confronted Lu Yi, furious about his poor performance in Chuiwan during a meeting with the emperor.

He lectured his son on the importance of forbearance, but Lu Yi retorted sarcastically, questioning how a "cold-blooded father" could expect a sentimental son. When Lu Ting raised his hand to strike him, Lu Yi stopped him, asserting the blow would hurt his father more. Softening, Lu Ting acknowledged that while Lu Yi’s methods were unorthodox, he had never seen him truly lose and suspected he had a hidden plan.

Lu Yi confirmed this, revealing he had discovered a crucial lead: Cao Kun was likely still in the capital. Lu Yi, dressed in plain clothes, played the konghou in his courtyard, the music stirring memories of his mother playing the same instrument as he and his father played nearby. The gentle memory was shattered by the traumatic image of his mother with a sword in her chest, causing him to falter.

Meanwhile, Jinxia and Yang Yue arrived at a pawnshop, having discovered that Cao Ling'er visited it daily. Jinxia explained that Cao Kun secretly owned the shop, using it as a front for his illicit dealings, and he was likely hiding there. To their surprise, Lu Yi entered just as an auction began for a konghou made from leftover wood of a famed instrument. Bidding started at 500 taels of silver.

Lu Yi immediately placed a bid, and the price escalated rapidly. Just as it reached 2,000 taels, Lu Yi stunned the room by bidding 500 taels of gold. Before the auctioneer could finalize the sale, a man offered a mere 200 taels of silver. Yang Yue pointed out the man's prosthetic eye, and Jinxia identified him as Yan Shifan, the powerful and arrogant son of Yan Song. His presence created a tense standoff.

Yan Shifan addressed Lu Yi, mockingly offering him the konghou. Lu Yi politely declined, and Yan Shifan, claiming Lu Yi’s words strengthened his resolve, took the instrument for his lowball price and invited Lu Yi to his home to hear it played. Jinxia, watching from above, was relieved when Lu Yi didn't see her witnessing his public humiliation.

She and Yang Yue also noted the pawnshop staff were all skilled martial artists, reinforcing their theory that it was Cao Kun's hideout. Elsewhere, Xu Lang begged Yan Song for help regarding the lost defense map. After dismissing the desperate Xu Lang, Yan Shifan advised his father to use this opportunity to replace him with Huang Yu, a commander who had recently earned the Emperor’s praise.

That night, Jinxia and Yang Yue snuck into the pawnshop, only to find Lu Yi already there. A hidden peephole in a secret compartment suddenly opened, and Jinxia, terrified, shrieked about a ghost and jumped into Lu Yi's arms. Lu Yi dryly remarked that she was more frightening than any ghost. The peephole triggered a weapon trap, forcing them to take cover. The shop's butler rushed in, feigning surprise and claiming the eye was his.

Jinxia exposed his lie, noting the fierce energy in the eyes could only belong to a martial artist. Under pressure from Lu Yi, the butler confessed the eyes belonged to Cao Kun, who had escaped during the commotion. He also revealed that Cao Kun had acquired a human-skin mask, making him nearly impossible to find. Lu Yi learned that the mask-maker was at Xiaoxiang Pavilion and headed there immediately.

Jinxia and Yang Yue arrived moments later, with Jinxia explaining to a hesitant Yang Yue that the establishment was a hub for intelligence, not just a brothel. Inside, Lu Yi encountered Yan Shifan, who had brought the new konghou for the top courtesan, Miss Hongdou, to play. He invited Lu Yi to listen. Jinxia, realizing Lu Yi had obtained the drawing of the human-skin mask, disguised herself as a veiled Miss Hongdou.

She entered the room and began to play the konghou. Lu Yi froze as he recognized the melody—"Peach Blossom," a tune his mother used to play, which was thought to be lost. Misinterpreting his intense reaction as infatuation, Yan Shifan left the two alone. Once they were alone, Lu Yi confronted the veiled woman, demanding to know how she knew "Peach Blossom." He instantly recognized Jinxia's voice. Exposed, she threw anesthetic powder in his face and escaped with the drawing.

Back at Department Six, she quickly copied the image before Lieutenant Cen of the Embroidered Uniform Guards arrived to retrieve it. Jinxia feigned ignorance, and Cen left without evidence. Later, Jinxia secretly met with Lu Yi to return the drawing, explaining she had denied the theft to protect her superior. Lu Yi, unimpressed by her pleas for forgiveness, relentlessly questioned her about the song.

Jinxia explained she had once saved its composer, Master Mu, who then took her as his final disciple. When she asked how he knew the tune, Lu Yi dismissed the question, leaving her to again beg for his mercy.

Episode 3 Recap

Yuan Jinxia, having pleaded with Lu Yi to no avail, was ordered to clean the stables as punishment for her mistake. Grumbling and holding her nose, she struggled through the chore, wondering why her usual tactics had failed to work on him. Observing her, Lu Yi silently questioned why Master Mu would accept such a disciple, deeming her a disgrace to his reputation.

Yuan Jinxia returned home late, where her mother, who had reheated her dinner multiple times, was waiting with a stern lecture. Her mother revealed a gift intended for Matchmaker Wang, explaining her plan to arrange a marriage for Jinxia with the third son of Mr. Yi, a well-educated private school teacher. Jinxia, however, had no desire to marry, especially not into a family that might look down on her.

Her mother recalled Jinxia's rambunctious childhood, when she earned the nicknames "Yasha" and "Tiger" for her mischief, lamenting that no matchmakers would approach her now. Jinxia playfully argued that Yasha and tigers were carefree deities. Her mother, fearing she would one day pass away and leave Jinxia alone, pressed the issue. Jinxia deflected by praising her mother's cooking before quickly slipping away to do the dishes.

Meanwhile, Cao Ling'er secretly met her father, Cao Kun, in a dilapidated house on the outskirts of the capital. Before she could enter, Lu Yi stopped Jinxia, who had been following Ling'er. Inside, Cao Kun, wearing a human skin mask that initially startled his daughter, was about to flee with her when Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia appeared and cornered them. Lu Yi subdued the injured Cao Kun and pressed him for the location of the stolen military map.

Jinxia explained how Cao Kun had faked his death by swapping clothes with a servant, setting the room ablaze, and that his only weakness was his daughter. Defiant, Cao Kun offered a twisted deal: he would reveal everything if Lu Yi killed Jinxia. As Cao Ling'er panicked, Jinxia, though initially startled by Lu Yi's sword pointed at her, quickly realized Cao Kun was trying to sow discord.

Lu Yi then cleverly turned his sword on Cao Ling'er, forcing Cao Kun to break. Desperate, Cao Kun confessed he was tasked with stealing the map and taking it to the coast. Before he could reveal more, a black-clad assassin fired an arrow, killing him instantly.

As Cao Ling'er grieved, Jinxia examined the body and deduced the map's hiding place from moss on his sleeves, wet shoe soles, and red paint under his fingernails, indicating a high, watery location with a red wall. Recognizing her exceptional tracking skills, Lu Yi asked her to lead the way. Yuan Jinxia led Lu Yi to a bridge, where she spotted the military map hidden in a high archway.

She climbed up to retrieve it but stumbled and fell into Lu Yi's arms. Lu Yi, with a displeased expression, quickly left. Jinxia was relieved he hadn't noticed the dust she left on his clothes, only to hear his cold voice from behind, informing her that the clothes would be sent to her for washing. She had no choice but to agree.

Lu Yi presented the recovered map to the Emperor, reporting the discovery of a mysterious tattoo on Cao Kun’s wrist, similar to those found on Japanese individuals. He speculated that Cao Kun’s theft was linked to Japanese pirates in the Southeast and orchestrated by a powerful figure within the court. The Emperor, expressing his disdain for corrupt officials, commanded Lu Yi to travel to Jiangnan.

The investigation into the Jian Zhen case would serve as a public cover for Lu Yi's secret mission to uncover the conspiracy. Back home, Jinxia begrudgingly washed Lu Yi’s clothes, loudly complaining about his ruthless nature. Yang Yue explained that the Embroidered Uniform Guards operate directly under the Emperor, requiring them to be merciless.

Meanwhile, Lu Yi's father, Lu Ting, advised his son to be cautious in Yangzhou, especially since the case involved the imperial family, and suggested he utilize Yang Chengwan of Department Six for his tracking skills. Subsequently, Yang Chengwan instructed his son, Yang Yue, and his apprentice, Yuan Jinxia, to prepare to accompany Lu Yi to Yangzhou, much to Jinxia's dismay. Later, Jinxia visited Lu Yi, ostensibly to return his clean clothes but primarily to reclaim her hand cannon.

After her persistent requests, Lu Yi returned it. While waiting, her attention was drawn to a "konghou" in the courtyard. Lu Yi explained that the one from the auction was a fake, whereas this was the genuine Linlang "konghou". Jinxia excitedly rushed home, discovering her hand cannon had been subtly modified, making it even better to use. Cao Ling'er sought out Yuan Jinxia to bid farewell.

With her father dead and her family's reputation ruined, she planned to leave the capital with a distant aunt and live quietly in her hometown. Jinxia encouraged her to value herself like a jewel and wished her a safe journey. The Yangzhou trip was suddenly moved up, forcing Jinxia into a hurried departure. Her mother presented her with two new outfits and tried to persuade her to stay for a pre-arranged marriage meeting.

Citing the mission's urgency, Jinxia declined, gave her mother part of her two-month advance salary, and rushed to the dock. Onboard the ship, she saw many men transporting large, waxed boxes. Yang Yue explained they were subordinates of Wang Fangxing, an Assistant Commander, escorting birthday gifts to Yangzhou for the Supporter-generalissimo's 50th birthday. Jinxia realized this was the true reason for Lu Yi's covert operation.

After a brief clash with one of Wang's rude guards, her curiosity was piqued by the heavily waxed boxes. In the imperial court, Yan Song suggested appointing Huang Yu to a crucial border post. The Minister of War, Xu, vouched for Huang Yu's experience against Japanese pirates, and the Emperor issued an edict making him the Director-general of the Northeast.

Aboard the ship, Jinxia and Yang Yue were curtly turned away by Lu Yi's guards, who handed them their cabin assignments and told them not to disturb their master. Jinxia despaired at the strong moldy smell in her cabin. Yang Yue, after using tea leaves to deodorize his and his father's cabin, promised to help her next. Yang Chengwan reminded his son to remain vigilant, observant, and cautious during the mission. Later, Yang Yue found Jinxia on deck and offered her a piece of cake.

Episode 4 Recap

Yuan Jinxia complained to Yang Yue that her mother had dragged her to a blind date with the third son of the Yi family. Yang Yue laughed and teased her, suggesting she marry into the distinguished and well-educated family to save money. Jinxia argued that the sons of the Yi family were nerds and she would be bored to death.

She half-jokingly offered to tell her mother that she was already promised to Yang Yue, but he refused, teasing her about her snoring. As they were bickering, Lu Yi arrived, asking for Constable Yang Chengwan. Yang Yue promptly led the way, and Yuan Jinxia instinctively took Lu Yi's teacup. After Lu Yi walked away, Yuan Jinxia wondered why she, a constable of the Six Departments, had naturally stooped to serving him tea.

Meanwhile, the indulgent Yan Shifan was enjoying himself with beautiful women. He instructed his subordinate to send a message to Huang Yu, demanding the painting titled "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" before Huang Yu took office as the Director-general of the Northeast. Yan Shifan warned that just as he could promote Huang Yu, he could also cause his downfall. Lu Yi met with Yang Chengwan.

After some initial pleasantries, Yang Chengwan sent Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue out of the room so he could speak with Lu Yi privately. However, the curious pair immediately began to eavesdrop. Aware of their presence, Yang Chengwan abruptly opened the door, causing them to stumble. He then sternly tasked them with gathering information about the ship and its passengers before dark, forcing them to leave. Undeterred, Jinxia soon persuaded Yang Yue to return and listen again.

This time, they overheard Yang Chengwan reminiscing with Lu Yi about old times, revealing that he was once an Embroidered Uniform Guard under Lu Yi’s father, Supreme Commander Lu Ting. Lu Yi conveyed his father's high praise for Yang Chengwan’s old skills and passed on Lu Ting's hope that he would return to the Embroidered Uniform Guards. Citing his age and a physical disability, Yang Chengwan declined, stating he had lost his talent and ambition.

Lu Yi advised him to take his time with the decision and then delivered a final, cryptic message from his father: "Dead is dead." The words visibly stirred painful memories for Yang Chengwan. As Lu Yi prepared to depart, he discovered Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue hastily retreating from the door. The two were astonished to learn of Yang Chengwan's past, a fact he had never revealed, and were intensely curious about his reason for leaving the Embroidered Uniform Guards.

Lu Yi, observing their shocked expressions, simply commented on Department Six's penchant for eavesdropping before returning to his room. Unwilling to give up, Yuan Jinxia immediately chased after him, determined to uncover the truth. She relentlessly followed Lu Yi, praising her master's talent and offering to persuade him to return, all in an effort to get Lu Yi to reveal the reason for his departure.

When Lu Yi became impatient and closed his door, Jinxia brazenly sat outside, reflecting on his comment that "curiosity can kill a wild cat like you." Meanwhile, Liao Wenhua, Yan Song's godson, arrived to present a jade gift. He expressed his desire to return to his hometown in the Southeast with fame and serve as Censor-in-chief, a position that would soon be vacant. Yan Song indicated he was considering it, and Liao Wenhua thanked him profusely.

Outside Lu Yi's door, Yuan Jinxia grew hungry. She bought some pastries and tea from a cabin boy and ate them, offering some to Lu Yi. He merely opened his door, took the tea, and closed it again. Not long after, Lu Yi reopened the door, claiming there was a cockroach in his room and asking Yuan Jinxia to catch it before he left. Yuan Jinxia promptly began her hunt. Later, she was summoned by Yang Chengwan and severely reprimanded.

It turned out Lu Yi had complained about her prying, causing her to be punished. Had Yang Yue not intervened, she would have had to kneel all night. Yang Yue had already prepared paper and ink, dictating a repentance letter for her to write. As she wrote, she realized Lu Yi's room had been spotless and there was no cockroach; it was clearly a prank.

Her anger grew, and her handwriting became illegible as she inwardly cursed Lu Yi, vowing to make him pay. At that moment, Lu Yi found the cockroach corpse Yuan Jinxia had caught and deliberately left in his room and, disgusted, immediately ordered Cen Fu to remove it. Late that night, Lu Yi, dressed in black, infiltrated the room where the birthday gifts were stored, only to discover they had all vanished.

Wang Fangxing, the officer in charge of the gifts, quickly became aware of the theft and, without hesitation, ordered a search of Yuan Jinxia's room. He reasoned that she was an outsider who had paid particular attention to the gifts. Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue refused to be falsely accused and fought back. In the shadows, an arrow was shot towards Jinxia, but Lu Yi appeared, blocked the arrow, and apprehended Wang Fangxing.

Upon learning Lu Yi's identity as the son of Supreme Commander Lu Ting, Wang Fangxing immediately cowered. Lu Yi, visibly angered, declared that while he could punish his own people, he would not tolerate anyone else harming her. Yuan Jinxia was momentarily stunned by Lu Yi's possessive remark "my people" until he instructed Wang Fangxing to lead them to the crime scene.

Yuan Jinxia confidently began her investigation but slipped on the waxy floor, landing face-first, much to Lu Yi's distaste. After sending Wang Fangxing away, Jinxia shared her deductions: the loud noises from moving the trunks suggested the thieves had nothing to fear, and the lack of combat signs, along with only the guards' footprints, indicated the thief was an insider who had drugged the guards. She concluded it was highly probable that Wang Fangxing had orchestrated the theft himself.

Later, Huang Yu presented the "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" painting to Yan Shifan, who decided to invite others to admire it. On the ship, Wang Fangxing assembled all his guards for Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia to inspect. Jinxia examined each guard, noting that although they appeared strong, most were out of shape. However, she noticed one particular guard who seemed well-trained. Suddenly, a storm began.

As the crew rushed to secure the ship, an eerie, glowing vessel drifted into view. The crew panicked, crying out that it was the legendary ghost ship. Legend held that the ship was cursed by the resentful spirit of Zhu Yougui, who was assassinated on it centuries ago, and any ship that encountered it was doomed. Hearing the commotion, Lu Yi rushed to the deck with Jinxia following.

He ordered Cen Fu to drop the anchor, but it seemed possessed, pulling their ship relentlessly towards the ghost ship, while the rudder also became unresponsive. Seeing this, Lu Yi declared he was going to board the ghost ship to investigate. Jinxia insisted on accompanying him. Without waiting for her to finish, Lu Yi scooped her up and leaped towards the spectral vessel.

Episode 5 Recap

Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi found themselves aboard a ghostly ship. Upon seeing what appeared to be blood everywhere, a startled Yuan Jinxia jumped back, only for Lu Yi to coldly push her to the ground. She then discovered it was merely red dye. Yuan Jinxia deduced that night butterfly scales had been placed on the sails to create the illusion of a flaming ghost ship from a distance.

The ship’s interior was unsettlingly dark and filled with skeletons, yet Lu Yi remained unfazed. A frightened Yuan Jinxia hid behind him as they ventured deeper. They soon encountered a hallway filled with intricate mechanisms. Yuan Jinxia, attempting to fire her pistol, inadvertently triggered them. While she tried to discern a pattern, Lu Yi effortlessly navigated through the traps. Lacking his agility, Yuan Jinxia was forced to crawl on the ground to get past.

They eventually reached the control room, discovering that the ghost ship was an elaborate mechanical creation, with no people or actual ghosts aboard. As the control room began to flood, signaling the ship's imminent demise, Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi urgently sought a way back, only to find their escape route gone. As Yuan Jinxia grew anxious, Lu Yi abruptly asked if she could swim before throwing her into the water.

In the water, she noticed wax oil floating on the surface. Realizing that the official ship's water level hadn't significantly changed despite the supposed loss of cargo, she deduced the wax was for waterproofing, not just moisture protection. This meant the birthday gifts were likely still hidden on board. Following this realization, she discovered a secret compartment beneath their ship, where the birthday gifts were indeed stored. As she accessed them, masked assailants suddenly dragged her underwater.

Just as she ran out of breath, Lu Yi appeared, rescuing her and pulling her back to safety. Yuan Jinxia awoke on the official ship, her clothes changed. Yang Yue reassured her that he had changed them with his eyes closed. Learning that Lu Yi had impounded the birthday gifts, Yuan Jinxia rushed to confront him. She marveled at the array of treasures, but Lu Yi questioned her knowledge of the items, suggesting she intended to embezzle them.

He demanded to know how she found the hidden treasures. Yuan Jinxia meticulously explained her deductions about the water level and the wax oil, concluding that Assistant Commander Wang's Imperial Agent was the mastermind. Lu Yi then ordered them both to be brought for questioning.

When Yuan Jinxia asked how he had unraveled the ghost ship mystery, he explained that its creators had placed magnetic stones on its hull, causing other ships to be involuntarily drawn towards it and allowing them to steal treasures during the ensuing chaos. Meanwhile, Yan Shifan gathered several officials to admire a painting of "Along the River During the Qingming Festival." Elsewhere, Assistant Commander Wang expressed relief at the recovery of the birthday gifts.

Under joint questioning from Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia, the Imperial Agent, Sha Xiuzhu, confessed. Wang attempted to take the gifts, but Lu Yi stopped him. He revealed that one of the paintings, "Autumn Eagle," was an imperial item previously given to Altan Khan. Lu Yi warned Wang that his association with these items, which the Emperor was secretly investigating, could lead to severe punishment, implying a connection to General Guan. After Wang departed, Lu Yi interrogated Sha Xiuzhu further.

The agent, with a self-righteous air, claimed he stole the gifts to aid the poor but vehemently denied any involvement with the ghost ship. Unconvinced, Lu Yi asserted that such an elaborate plan couldn't be a solo act. When the agent refused to divulge more, Lu Yi swiftly subdued him and ordered Cen Fu to take him to the North Bureau, a place where even death was a luxury.

Witnessing Lu Yi's ruthless demeanor for the first time, Yuan Jinxia was visibly shaken and hid behind Yang Yue. Lu Yi searched the recovered gifts but couldn't find General Guan's personal notebook, crucial evidence he needed. Convinced it must be in the two missing trunks, Lu Yi ordered the guards watching Sha Xiuzhu to be withdrawn, setting a trap for his accomplice.

That night, Xie Xiao boarded the ship to rescue Sha Xiuzhu, who, sensing a trap, urged Xie Xiao to prioritize recovering the two missing trunks instead. Yuan Jinxia unexpectedly encountered them, and Xie Xiao took her hostage. She frantically pleaded for her life, claiming to be a lowly constable from Department Six and a useless hostage. Just then, Lu Yi appeared. Xie Xiao charged at him, and in a desperate move, Sha Xiuzhu shoved Yuan Jinxia into Xie Xiao's path.

Lu Yi restrained his power, but Yuan Jinxia still sustained a scratch on her neck. In the chaos, Xie Xiao escaped and retrieved the two missing trunks from the water. Furious over Yuan Jinxia's injury, Yang Yue nearly came to blows with Lu Yi and later warned her to stay away from the "cunning as a serpent" guard. Soon after, the group arrived in Yangzhou and was greeted by Prefect Wei Ying.

He introduced them to the powerful Wu'an Sect, which controlled local shipping, now managed by Shangguan Xi, the Chief of Vermilion Bird Hall. They witnessed her harshly whipping a disloyal sect member. Yuan Jinxia rushed forward to stop the illegal punishment, just as Xie Xiao appeared. Lu Yi recognized him as Sha Xiuzhu's rescuer. As Xie Xiao squared off with the officials, Shangguan Xi intervened, reminding him not to cross the authorities.

Before being led away, Xie Xiao cast a lingering glance at a bewildered Yuan Jinxia. Later, Shangguan Xi urged Xie Xiao to return home to his ailing father, but he refused, revealing he had run away three years prior when his father tried to force him to marry Shangguan Xi, his martial arts senior.

Episode 6 Recap

Three years prior, on the day of his wedding to Shangguan Xi, Xie Xiao fled, leaving Shangguan Xi weeping until dawn. Encountering him again after three years, she struggled with her deep feelings. Xie Xiao, however, remained oblivious to her true emotions, believing she only agreed to the marriage because their fathers forced her and he could not ruin her life.

Shangguan Xi implored him to return home, suggesting his father might have ideas on how to save Sha Xiuzhu, who was now imprisoned. Xie Xiao finally relented, accepting whatever punishment awaited him. Shangguan Xi then drew water, shaved his beard, and provided him with new clothes, transforming his appearance before he faced his father. Meanwhile, General Guan arrived in Yangzhou for his father's birthday and demanded the return of his stolen birthday gifts from Lu Yi.

Lu Yi refused, citing that the case remained unsolved and two trunks of gifts were still missing, which meant the evidence could not be returned. General Guan invoked his imperial status, but Lu Yi calmly asserted that the Embroidered Uniform Guards only took His Majesty's command and acted according to rules. He invited General Guan to directly submit a memorial to the Emperor if he had any complaints, causing General Guan to storm off in frustration.

Upon his return, Xie Xiao was immediately met with a slap from his father, Master Xie, who berated him for clashing with the Embroidered Uniform Guard and Lu Yi. Master Xie intended to send Xie Xiao to Suzhou that very night to lie low. However, Xie Xiao insisted he could not abandon Sha Xiuzhu, stating they had jointly planned the theft of the birthday gifts.

Despite his father's warnings about the Provincial Surveillance Commission's heavily guarded jail, Xie Xiao remained resolute in his intent to rescue Sha Xiuzhu. Master Xie, noting Lu Yi's unpredictable nature, ordered Shangguan Xi to keep a close watch on Xie Xiao and prevent him from causing more trouble. After his father left, Xie Xiao revealed to Shangguan Xi that he still possessed two trunks of the birthday gifts and needed to quickly hide them.

Shangguan Xi subtly suggested his father might be ill, but Xie Xiao dismissed it, convinced his father was healthy after the strength of his slap. Yuan Jinxia, eager to explore Yangzhou, convinced Yang Yue to extend their outing. As they discussed going to Seven Pavilion, Xie Xiao, who happened to be nearby, overheard and formulated a plan. He paid the Seven Pavilion owner to stage a scene.

When Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue arrived, the owner loudly accused Xie Xiao of eating without paying for over a month. Xie Xiao then revealed his identity as the Young Master of the Wu'an Sect and asked Yuan Jinxia to judge the dispute. Before she could properly respond, an accomplice of Xie Xiao splashed water all over Yuan Jinxia, drenching her.

Feigning concern, Xie Xiao insisted on taking Yuan Jinxia to a costume store to buy new clothes, despite her initial protests. Yang Yue, needing to deliver snacks to his father, reluctantly left them. At the costume store, Yuan Jinxia unsuspectingly changed her clothes and left her badge, an important symbol of her authority, with her old attire. Xie Xiao seized this opportunity, replacing her real badge with a fake one he had prepared.

Using this fake badge, Xie Xiao brazenly entered the jail, claiming to be an envoy sent by Lu Yi to interrogate and take Sha Xiuzhu away. However, his unfamiliarity with official protocols, specifically being unaware of the distinction between the "South Bureau" and "North Bureau," exposed his deception. The vigilant jailer immediately recognized the ruse and locked Xie Xiao in a cell. To rescue Xie Xiao, Shangguan Xi detonated a thunderball, blowing up the stable to create a chaotic diversion.

She successfully freed Xie Xiao from his cell, but despite his pleas, she insisted they leave without Sha Xiuzhu. Hearing the loud explosion and seeing the firelight, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia rushed to the scene. Yuan Jinxia tried to assert her authority by displaying her badge to the guards, but they mistook her for Xie Xiao's accomplice due to the identical fake badge.

Overwhelmed, Yuan Jinxia struggled to explain herself, but Lu Yi vouched for her, confirming she was a constable from Department Six, though he also subtly distanced himself from her. Lu Yi then sternly demanded an explanation from Yuan Jinxia regarding the day's events. He immediately recognized her badge was a fake, a fact confirmed by Yang Chengwan who examined it and noted the absence of meteorite iron, a key feature of genuine Department Six badges.

Yuan Jinxia was shocked, unable to comprehend how her badge had been swapped. Lu Yi pressed Yuan Jinxia, suspecting her of being an "inside agent" given the ease with which her crucial badge was supposedly exchanged. Distressed and feeling wrongly accused, Yuan Jinxia lashed out in anger, defiantly admitting to knowing the bandits, providing them the badge, and orchestrating the jailbreak plan.

Enraged by her outburst, Yang Chengwan slapped her across the face, quickly apologizing to Lu Yi for his disciple's words of frustration. Lu Yi, unwavering, declared that he had no need for someone like her and ordered her to pack her belongings and leave Yangzhou the following day. Yuan Jinxia, furious, threw her badge down and ran off, proclaiming she would not be a constable. Yang Yue quickly followed to console her.

Lu Yi then explained to Yang Chengwan that he knew Yuan Jinxia was not actually involved with the bandits, but believed a "good blade must be sharpened" to maintain its edge. Yang Yue urged Yuan Jinxia to calmly recall when and by whom her badge might have been exchanged. Suddenly, Yuan Jinxia remembered the moment at the costume store and realized Xie Xiao was the culprit.

Grabbing the clothes he had given her, she stormed to the Wu'an Sect, demanding Xie Xiao be handed over to the authorities. Shangguan Xi refused to comply, and Xie Xiao, confident in his defense, denied any wrongdoing. Yuan Jinxia, in a fit of rage, aimed her firearm at his head, but ultimately hesitated to pull the trigger. Meanwhile, Lu Yi discovered one of Shangguan Xi's unique beads near the jail's back wall, immediately understanding the Wu'an Sect's involvement.

At that moment, Master Xie and Yang Chengwan arrived. It became apparent that the two were old friends. Confronted by his father, Xie Xiao was forced to confess his actions, earning him another angry slap from Master Xie. Yang Chengwan intervened, suggesting that the Wu'an Sect should lie low for a while since Lu Yi had not yet fully implicated them. Master Xie reluctantly agreed.

Yang Chengwan then introduced Yang Yue and Yuan Jinxia to Master Xie, an introduction that unexpectedly revealed a shared past. Master Xie recounted how, years ago, he brought a young, burly Xie Xiao to the capital, and how Yuan Jinxia had bitten him during their very first meeting, after which she frequently led him into mischief. Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao were surprised to discover they were childhood playmates, exchanging nicknames "Fatty Xie" and "Prawn Yuan."

Despite the nostalgic reunion, Yuan Jinxia remained steadfast, declaring she would only forgive Xie Xiao once she was reinstated as a constable. Seeing her determination, Xie Xiao proposed a plan that he claimed would surely lead to her reinstatement. Following Xie Xiao's advice, Yuan Jinxia arrived at Lu Yi's door late that night, carrying her packed belongings with her face deliberately pale and eyes red, feigning tears.

She dramatically announced her departure for the capital the next morning, hoping to elicit a compassionate response. Lu Yi, however, remained silent throughout her performance. As Yuan Jinxia slowly walked towards the door, he finally uttered, "Wait a minute." Yuan Jinxia feigned modesty, claiming she did not deserve to be kept, but her hopes were dashed when Lu Yi simply stated she could "leave tomorrow" and promptly pushed her out of his room.

Back in her own room, a furious Yuan Jinxia almost tore the place apart. After chastising and sending Yang Yue away for trying to console her, she turned to find Xie Xiao entering through her window. Hearing that his plan had failed to sway Lu Yi, Xie Xiao offered to treat Yuan Jinxia to the best night snacks in Yangzhou as an apology.

While indulging in the feast, Yuan Jinxia questioned Xie Xiao's motives, asking why he would risk his life to save Sha Xiuzhu when his own father was reportedly ill. Xie Xiao, believing his father to be healthy, denied the illness. However, Yuan Jinxia, through keen observation, detailed Master Xie's subtle signs of distress, including deep wrinkles, short breath, powerless actions, and a hoarse voice, concluding these indicated heart and lung problems.

Xie Xiao, taken aback by her accurate assessment, sighed and explained that Sha Xiuzhu had taken good care of him for three years. Together they robbed the rich and gave to the poor, never doing anything with a guilty conscience. He revealed that he had insisted on robbing the birthday gifts because he detested the Guan family's arrogance, and therefore, he could not abandon Sha Xiuzhu in jail.

Episode 7 Recap

At their dinner, Xie Xiao explained that for the past three years, he and Sha Xiuzhu had only robbed the rich to feed the poor, never committing true evil. He took full responsibility for stealing the birthday gifts, an idea born from his outrage at Jian Zhen and his son's bullying of villagers. While declaring he couldn't abandon Sha Xiuzhu, he promised not to implicate Yuan Jinxia.

Yuan Jinxia acknowledged his courage but reminded him that Sha Xiuzhu broke the law and must be punished. She warned him of the serious consequences if Lu Yi pursued the matter, stressing that as a constable, she couldn't afford to lose her job. When Xie Xiao questioned why a woman like her had to work so hard, Yuan Jinxia retorted with a fiery speech, reminding him of the importance of women like his mother, Shangguan Xi, and herself.

Brushing off his suggestion that she was drunk, she proudly claimed she had never been inebriated, then drank more wine and promptly passed out. Meanwhile, Lu Yi invited Shangguan Xi for tea, remarking on Yangzhou's poetic charm. He returned a piece of her jewelry he had found, revealing he knew of her involvement. Commenting on her good but impatient martial arts, he directly questioned the wisdom of stealing birthday gifts and causing an explosion at the Prosecutor's office.

Shangguan Xi feigned ignorance until Lu Yi threatened to confront Xie Xiao directly, forcing her to drop the act. After Lu Yi effortlessly subdued her in a brief fight, she resignedly asked him to name his price to resolve the matter. Xie Xiao carried the unconscious Yuan Jinxia back to the yamen, where they were met by a stern-faced Lu Yi.

After taking Yuan Jinxia from Xie Xiao, Lu Yi ignored his advice to make her tea and, annoyed, simply placed her on a bed before leaving, remarking that she had clearly enjoyed herself too much. The next morning, Cen Fu delivered a message from Lu Yi: the case had to be closed before she could return to the capital. To that end, she, Cen Fu, and Yang Yue were to escort Sha Xiuzhu.

During the escort, as Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue chatted about Yang Yue's father's past as an Embroidered Uniform Guard, they were ambushed. While a diversionary group distracted the guards, a masked Xie Xiao and Shangguan Xi descended to free Sha Xiuzhu. Yuan Jinxia immediately pursued Xie Xiao, leaving Yang Yue to face Shangguan Xi. Xie Xiao unmasked himself and pleaded with Yuan Jinxia, explaining Sha Xiuzhu's loyalty to him and his inability to abandon a friend.

Caught between duty and friendship, Yuan Jinxia hesitated, her blade at his neck. Meanwhile, after a few exchanges, Shangguan Xi also unmasked. A flustered Yang Yue tried to justify his duty, but she revealed the entire rescue was a pre-arranged plan with Lu Yi, questioning how else they would know the precise escort time and why Lu Yi would send such a small detail for a supposedly important prisoner.

She told him to ask his boss for the truth and departed, leaving Yang Yue bewildered. Yuan Jinxia lowered her blade, unable to harm her friend. To salvage her job, she told Xie Xiao to cut her arm, instructing him to avoid the main meridians. Recalling how she defended him in their childhood, Xie Xiao couldn't bring himself to do it.

Seeing his hesitation, Yuan Jinxia hardened her resolve, cut her own arm, and urged a shocked Xie Xiao to flee. When she reported back, Lu Yi noted her wound with suspicion but said nothing. He later had Cen Fu give her special medicine from the North Bureau, instructing him to conceal its origin. Yuan Jinxia accepted Cen Fu's apology for the failed escort but, wary of a trap, declined the medicine.

Later that night, Yuan Jinxia awoke from a nightmare about her grandfather and his collection of handguns to find she had a fever from her infected wound. Just then, Xie Xiao appeared at her window with medicine from the Wu'an Sect. Panicked that he would be discovered, she urged him to leave, but it was too late—Lu Yi knocked on the door. After she frantically hid Xie Xiao, Lu Yi entered, sensing something was amiss.

Noting her fever and the unused medicine, he tossed another vial on the floor, ordering her to use it. As he left, he pointedly remarked that one should close their windows to keep thieves out. Once he was gone, Yuan Jinxia ushered Xie Xiao out the window and applied the medicine Lu Yi had left, realizing it was the same as what Cen Fu had offered and that Lu Yi had been secretly concerned for her.

Yang Yue secretly witnessed Shangguan Xi returning the stolen birthday gifts to Lu Yi. The exchange confirmed that Shangguan Xi had cooperated because Lu Yi had threatened her sect, proving her earlier claim of a pre-arranged rescue was true. When Yang Yue told Yuan Jinxia, she was furious that her injury was for a case Lu Yi had already orchestrated.

She now understood that his uncharacteristic kindness in sending medicine stemmed from guilt, and she resolved to keep her distance from him. Lu Yi sent a detailed report to the Emperor exposing the crimes of Jian Zhen and his son. With the Cao Kun case still cold, he requested to remain in Yangzhou. The Emperor, pleased with the results, ordered the Jian family to be investigated and rewarded Lu Yi with 10,000 taels of silver.

Six Doors received 100 taels, an amount Yuan Jinxia found deeply unfair. Meanwhile, Sir Zhou of the Ministry of Works hired the Wu'an Sect to escort 10,000 taels of silver for river embankment reconstruction. After Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao saw the funds safely to the treasury, they departed, unaware that Yan Shifan coveted the money and planned to seize it.

Just as Yang Chengwan prepared to return to the capital with Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue, Lu Yi persuaded them to extend their stay. He insisted that Yang Chengwan see a renowned orthopaedic specialist, Shen Mi, to treat his old leg injury, explaining it was a thank-you for his help and an instruction from his own father. The doctor determined that the leg needed to be re-broken and set, followed by three months of recuperation without martial arts.

When Yang Chengwan hesitated, Lu Yi offered to arrange a six-month leave for him from Six Doors headquarters. Yuan Jinxia thanked Lu Yi, who replied that her staying out of trouble would be thanks enough. Shortly after, the 10,000 taels of river funds vanished from the treasury. Sir Zhou was arrested for embezzlement, and the Emperor ordered Lu Yi to investigate.

Needing Six Doors' assistance, Lu Yi arranged for Yang Chengwan to be officially transferred to the North Bureau, allowing him to recuperate while still being assigned to the case. Yuan Jinxia, ever practical, perked up when she learned the case came with a monthly subsidy of four taels of silver, eagerly declaring her readiness to serve. Lu Yi announced their investigation would begin at the prison, where he presented an imperial decree, granting the Embroidered Uniform Guard full control over the case and the prisoner.

Episode 8 Recap

Following his appointment to lead the case by imperial decree, Lu Yi began the interrogation of Zhou Xianyi, who was imprisoned for the misappropriation of 100,000 taels of silver intended for dike repairs in Yangzhou. Despite his injuries, Zhou Xianyi, an official from Wuxing, remained silent. Lu Yi recalled a previous encounter with him three years earlier.

During a freezing winter, while other officials wore expensive leather or cotton boots, Zhou Xianyi wore a pair of worn-out boots, a detail that left a deep impression on Lu Yi. This image of unusual poverty for an official convinced Lu Yi to listen to Zhou Xianyi's side of the story. Prompted by the memory, Zhou Xianyi admitted to misappropriating 10,000 taels of silver.

He insisted, however, that he was unable to use the money for its intended purpose and returned it to the exchequer. He claimed the full 100,000 taels were still present when he left and professed confusion about their subsequent disappearance. Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia, skeptical of his one-sided story, emphasized their reliance on evidence and proceeded to the Yangzhou Exchequer to verify his claims.

Inside, they found that all footprints belonged to officials, suggesting no large-scale removal of silver by outsiders and lending some credibility to Zhou's account. Lu Yi deduced that Zhou’s admission to taking only 10,000 taels was plausible, as that amount could be transported secretly. The key was now to uncover his motive. As Yuan Jinxia's stomach rumbled, Lu Yi took her to a street-side noodle stall.

Surprised that a dignitary like him would eat at such a humble place, Jinxia was told by Lu Yi that simple stalls often serve the most authentic local delicacies. She quickly finished her first bowl of shrimp dumpling noodles and ordered another, to Lu Yi's astonishment. While they ate, flower petals drifted down. As Yuan Jinxia reached to catch one, Lu Yi quickly raised his hand, explaining he was only trying to prevent the blossom from falling into her bowl.

When another petal fell and she reached again, he repeated the gesture, creating an awkward tension between them. Annoyed, Lu Yi abruptly threw down some silver and left, with Jinxia hastily finishing her noodles to follow. Lu Yi’s subordinate, Cen Fu, reported that the Wu'an Sect had transported the 100,000 taels. Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia visited the sect, where its leader, Shangguan Xi, anticipated their inquiry.

She confirmed her sect’s role in transporting the silver to the exchequer but stated that none of her people ever entered it. For an alibi on the night of Zhou Xianyi’s arrest, she claimed she and Xie Xiao were inspecting goods at the sect's port, which all their members could confirm. During the conversation, Yuan Jinxia noticed that Shangguan Xi wore a sachet identical to Zhou Xianyi's in its intricate embroidery and scent.

Suspecting they were made by the same highly skilled person, Lu Yi instructed Jinxia to investigate its origin. Later, Yuan Jinxia updated her recovering master, Yang Chengwan, on the case. Hearing of the Wu'an Sect's potential involvement and the sachets, Yang Yue became agitated. However, Yang Chengwan insisted that if the sect was implicated, the investigation must proceed fairly, regardless of his personal friendship with its former leader.

Yuan Jinxia confronted Xie Xiao, who swore he did not steal the relief funds. Trusting him, she tasked him with investigating Shangguan Xi's sachet as a favor. Xie Xiao, initially surprised as he had never seen her wear one, later learned from Shangguan Xi that the sachet was a gift from her close friend, Zhai Lanye. Shangguan Xi explained that she met the woman, who came from pitiful circumstances, after Xie Xiao had left three years prior.

That night, Yuan Jinxia infiltrated Zhou Xianyi's sealed manor. Lacking proficient qinggong, she tried to crawl through a dog hole, only to be kicked the rest of the way in by Lu Yi, who was already inside. Embarrassed, she tried to leave, citing concerns for their reputations, but Lu Yi threatened to withhold her subsidy to make her stay. He effortlessly leaped onto a high pavilion, mocking her inferior skills before helping her up.

Inside, a startled cat made Jinxia cling to Lu Yi’s arm, to his annoyance. They discovered a love poem and materials for making rouge. Jinxia explained the complex process, noting that Zhou's worn uniform suggested he spent his money on his beloved, who they now suspected was the artisan behind the sachets. As they left, Yuan Jinxia accidentally knocked a bracelet from Lu Yi's wrist, causing him to storm off in anger.

Meanwhile, Xie Xiao provided Yuan Jinxia with a crucial piece of information: Zhai Lanye was a "lean horse," a girl from an impoverished family trained in the arts to be sold as a concubine. Months ago, Zhou Xianyi had met Zhai Lanye on the Slender West Lake and was captivated by her pipa playing and conversation. To marry her, he needed 10,000 taels to pay her owner, revealing the motive for his confessed embezzlement.

Eager to share her findings, Yuan Jinxia burst into Lu Yi's room while he was changing. After he dressed, she explained that Zhou Xianyi stole the money for Zhai Lanye. Hearing that Zhai Lanye’s owner often took her boating on the lake to attract wealthy suitors, Lu Yi devised a plan. He instructed Yuan Jinxia to rent a luxurious boat and spread word that a rich gentleman from the capital would be sailing on the lake.

When Jinxia asked for an advance, Lu Yi told her to use her own resourcefulness, promising to settle the accounts later. Soon after, Yuan Jinxia, disguised as a maid with a double-bun hairstyle, and Yang Yue, as a servant, accompanied Lu Yi on a grand boat tour. As Zhai Lanye's boat approached, Yang Yue, on Lu Yi’s order, deliberately collided with it. Intrigued, Zhai Lanye invited the "rich gentleman from the capital" aboard her vessel. After apologizing, Lu Yi requested she play her pipa, using the opportunity to discreetly survey his surroundings.

Episode 9 Recap

After a captivating pipa performance, Zhai Lanye emerged from behind a gauze curtain, her beauty stunning everyone present. Yuan Jinxia meticulously observed Zhai Lanye and her servant's attire. When she inquired about her exquisite dress, Zhai Lanye graciously replied that she had made it herself. Zhai Lanye then subtly asked Lu Yi if he was married, lamenting that despite her many admirers, none truly loved her beyond her superficial beauty, referring to herself as a "lean horse."

While conversing politely, Lu Yi discreetly surveyed the boat's surroundings. Later, Yuan Jinxia reported her observations to Lu Yi: Zhai Lanye had a kind disposition, her family was wealthy, and she had recently snuck out on a rainy day, catching a cold. This connected to the fact that Zhou Xianyi had been arrested on a rainy day.

Jinxia surmised that Zhai Lanye was being coerced into flattering high-ranking officials by her adoptive family, who demanded a 10,000-tael gift for her hand in marriage. Lu Yi instructed Yuan Jinxia to swiftly investigate Zhai Lanye's background and, most importantly, her whereabouts on the night before Zhou Xianyi's arrest. Afterward, Jinxia couldn't resist teasing Lu Yi about being the object of Zhai Lanye's admiration, only to be cut off by Yang Yue.

Later, in the detention room, Zhou Xianyi heard someone singing an eerie song. A mysterious figure then appeared before him, and moments later, he was found dead. Lu Yi was immediately informed. Yuan Jinxia conducted an autopsy, reporting that there were no obvious injuries on the body, but Zhou Xianyi's pupils were dilated and his eardrum had burst, indicating he had died from extreme fright. The lock on the detention room remained intact.

When an official, Mr. Wei, suggested reporting the death as a suicide to close the case, Lu Yi sternly rejected the idea, accusing him of shirking responsibility. He then assigned Yuan Jinxia the task of thoroughly investigating the cause of death. At dinner with Yang Chengwan and Yang Yue, Yuan Jinxia deliberately recounted a gruesome autopsy story involving maggots in a corpse, comparing the maggots to the rice in their bowls.

This successfully repulsed both Cen Fu and Lu Yi, causing them to lose their appetite and leave the table, though Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue found themselves equally disgusted. In the imperial court, the Emperor was gravely concerned about Zhou Xianyi's death and the missing 100,000 taels of silver. He reprimanded the Ministry of Works and ordered a thorough investigation to recover the funds, later privately emphasizing the case's importance to Lu Yi.

The next day, Yuan Jinxia approached Lu Yi with a voucher for the boat rental and refreshments, totaling 2. 5 taels. Lu Yi agreed to cover the 2 taels for the boat but refused the 0. 5 taels for refreshments, claiming Yuan Jinxia had consumed them all. Unable to argue, Jinxia began diligently cleaning Lu Yi's room to earn the reimbursement, to his secret amusement.

Satisfied, Lu Yi gave her a strange task: go to Zhou Xianyi's house that night, light a lamp on the second floor with the windows open, and wait until she heard roosters crow three times before leaving. Only then would he fully reimburse her. That rainy night, while in the house with a stray cat, Jinxia spotted Lu Yi in the building opposite. He beckoned her over. On the deserted street, Lu Yi approached her with an umbrella.

Jinxia noted that the building Lu Yi had been in was Zhai Lanye's former residence, which she had moved out of shortly after Zhou's arrest, deepening suspicion. Lu Yi shared his umbrella, tilting it to cover her and the cat, letting his own shoulder get soaked. When she looked at him in surprise, Lu Yi stated that the drenched cat was pathetic. Jinxia then quipped if she wasn't pathetic too, but Lu Yi remained silent.

He explained the rooster task was a ruse to see if her "righteous" presence would affect any "dirty things" in the house, admitting it was a form of training. The following day, Zhai Lanye visited Lu Yi, having learned his true identity from Shangguan Xi. Lu Yi, unsurprised, feigned that he had missed her since their first meeting and, out of curiosity, had investigated her, discovering her "close contact" with Zhou Xianyi.

Zhai Lanye denied a deep relationship, but when Lu Yi pressed her, revealing he had seen her room from the attic window of Zhou Xianyi's residence, she grew flustered. She then dramatically grasped Lu Yi's hand, declaring she had never truly loved any man until she met him. Yuan Jinxia, passing by outside, witnessed this surprising declaration, and Lu Yi, noticing her, swiftly withdrew his hand.

Later, Xie Xiao took Yuan Jinxia to see a play by the Chunxi Troupe, which had left Yangzhou years ago after a notorious murder. When Jinxia mentioned Zhou Xianyi's unusual death, Xie Xiao recalled his master teaching him about the mastoid process, an acupuncture point behind the ear that, if pressed forcefully with a needle, could cause a burst eardrum and death, a method eerily similar to the old Chunxi Troupe murder.

Jinxia rushed back to re-examine Zhou Xianyi's body and discovered a silver needle precisely in the mastoid process. Just then, Lu Yi appeared, startling her. She relayed her findings and Xie Xiao's information. Lu Yi, however, reacted with sarcasm, questioning her quick friendship with Xie Xiao before leaving abruptly. Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi disguised themselves in rough clothes to infiltrate the Chunxi Troupe.

When Lu Yi questioned why she chose him for the undercover mission, Jinxia flattered him, stating his good looks were essential for their act. They staged a fake robbery, allowing Jinxia to "save" the troupe leader. Jinxia then concocted a tearful story about being flood refugees who lost their families, expressing a desire to become apprentices. Her convincing performance, which even surprised Lu Yi, moved the troupe leader to accept them.

He introduced them to Changsheng, a senior apprentice, who spoke of the troupe's glorious past and a famous former "leading actor" before taking them to choose costumes. Yuan Jinxia eagerly donned her outfit, while Lu Yi looked visibly uncomfortable in his.

Episode 10 Recap

During a play rehearsal at the Chunxi Troupe, Yuan Jinxia enthusiastically performed while Lu Yi, her assigned partner, stood by silently. Covering for him, Jinxia improvised her own lines for "The Legend of the White Snake," altering the story so the heroines abandon the "foolish and heartless" Xu Xian. Lu Yi was amused by her changes. Changsheng, another apprentice, warned her not to let the troupe master hear her improvisations.

Jinxia's curiosity was then piqued when she couldn't find the troupe's most famous play, "The Best Perfume," in their repertoire. The mere mention of the play startled Changsheng, and the troupe master appeared, sternly warning Jinxia and Lu Yi to mind their business and not be overly curious. That night, Jinxia saw the master sneak out and followed him to an abandoned property called Lang Garden.

She watched as he set up an altar and mournfully muttered the names "Yun Zheyue" and "Wu Yinhua." When Jinxia accidentally made a noise, a stray cat appeared, distracting the master and allowing her to escape undetected. The next day, she reported her findings to Lu Yi. Yang Yue also brought new information from old case files: the previous troupe master's death was recorded succinctly. He had allegedly hanged himself after leaving a blood-written confession to Yun Zheyue's murder.

Following his death, the current master purchased the nearly-disbanded Chunxi Troupe and its plays, touring for years before recently returning to Yangzhou, just before Zhou Xianyi was murdered. Notably, "The Best Perfume" had not been performed since the new master took over. Finding these circumstances highly suspicious, Lu Yi decided they must investigate Lang Garden, despite Jinxia's reluctance due to its reputation as a haunted place.

Lu Yi insisted, explaining that an autopsy of Yun Zheyue, who was hastily buried there, was crucial to connect his death to Zhou Xianyi's. Inside the dilapidated Lang Garden, eerie wind chimes rattled as they explored. In one room, Lu Yi found a puppet, which triggered Jinxia’s memory of a rumor: Yun Zheyue had been an average performer until "The Best Perfume" was written.

His voice then improved miraculously, which some attributed to him nurturing a "little demon" inside such a puppet. Lu Yi scoffed at the superstition and led them to the old stage, the very place Jinxia dreaded as the scene of the original murder. As the wind chimes rang again, they were suddenly plunged into a vivid hallucination of Yun Zheyue performing "The Best Perfume" on a grand stage before a full audience.

Lu Yi calmly motioned for Jinxia to stay quiet and watch. During the performance, the phantom Yun Zheyue collapsed. Jinxia rushed to help, only to find her hands covered in his blood. The vision shattered instantly, returning them to the derelict stage with Jinxia's hands clean. A terrified Jinxia urged Lu Yi to flee, but as they tried to leave, they found themselves inexplicably trapped in a fierce blizzard. Jinxia cried out, convinced they were seeing ghosts, and nearly fell.

Lu Yi caught her, and when she shyly pulled away, he firmly took her hand, assuring her that ghosts weren't real and that he only believed in himself. Meanwhile, Yang Yue told his father, Yang Chengwan, that his leg was healing well thanks to Lu Yi's help. Yang Chengwan warned his son to remain wary of the Embroidered Uniform Guards, as their kindness always came with a purpose.

Shangguan Xi then visited, bringing soup and inviting Yang Chengwan to recuperate at the Wu'an Sect, an offer he politely deferred. Walking her out, Yang Yue awkwardly confronted Shangguan Xi about the missing 100,000 taels, suggesting that if she took the money, she should return it for the good of Yangzhou's people. Offended, Shangguan Xi staunchly denied any involvement in the theft or Zhou Xianyi's murder, leaving Yang Yue to regret his clumsy accusation.

Back in Lang Garden, Lu Yi and Jinxia found themselves circling back to the same tree. Exhausted and freezing, Jinxia collapsed, hugging Lu Yi's leg for warmth. Believing she was dying, she tearfully gave him final instructions for her mother and confessed her true feelings for him: despite being arrogant and difficult, she felt safe and protected working with him, a feeling she never had at Department Six. As she finished speaking, she fainted.

Lu Yi, remaining calm, finally noticed the faint, persistent ringing of the wind chimes. He covered Jinxia's ears and blocked the sound from his own, instantly breaking the spell. They realized they had been victims of an elaborate hypnosis. Though Jinxia was desperate to leave, Lu Yi insisted on finishing his work. He unearthed Yun Zheyue's shallow grave and found a skeleton with a long needle embedded in its skull—the same murder weapon used on Zhou Xianyi.

As Jinxia looked away and then back, Lu Yi momentarily vanished, replaced by a fleeting shadow that made her scream in terror. He reappeared, holding the wind chimes he had retrieved from the tree, puzzled by her fright. Overcome with relief and emotion, Jinxia instinctively grabbed his sleeve, then pulled back, remembering his dislike of being touched. Recalling her heartfelt confession in the snow, Lu Yi extended his arm, allowing her to hold it as they finally left the garden.

Elsewhere, the Emperor grew impatient over the missing funds, putting Minister Liao in a panic, though Yan Shifan remained confident. In Yangzhou, Lu Yi examined the puppet from Lang Garden and found a hidden note that read, "This is my last time to sing 'The Best Perfume' for you." He deduced that Yun Zheyue used a substitute singer, not black magic, to achieve his famous voice.

With the link between the two murders confirmed, the troupe master became their prime suspect. Jinxia searched the master's room and found a letter addressed to "Miss," but was spotted as she left. Meanwhile, Di Lanye received a letter instructing her to be in Yangzhou in three days. Jinxia showed Lu Yi the letter she found; although the handwriting didn't match the note from the puppet, Lu Yi noted that handwriting could be faked, keeping the master as a suspect.

At the Wu'an Sect, Sha Xiuzhu announced his departure to avoid implicating his friends further, while Xie Xiao declared he would stay to help Shangguan Xi manage the sect. Back at the Chunxi Troupe, the master arranged for everyone to take a hot spring bath. While soaking, Jinxia prayed for success in the case and for finding her birth parents. Her prayers were interrupted by Lu Yi’s voice from the adjacent pool.

He had overheard her and drily advised her to focus on finding the substitute singer rather than praying. Startled, Jinxia asked if he had heard everything. He confirmed he had, then asked, "Are you an orphan?"

Episode 11 Recap

While praying for a successful mission and enough silver to find her biological parents, Yuan Jinxia is overheard by Lu Yi. He questions if she is an orphan, to which she replies that it's not a secret, explaining how she got lost as a child, spent time in a brothel, and was later adopted by her current mother.

She then boldly asks Lu Yi to use the extensive intelligence network of the Embroidered Uniform Guards to help her locate her birth parents. Lu Yi initially states he cannot engage in personal work while on duty, but then ambiguously suggests that rules are man-made and can be changed.

A hopeful Yuan Jinxia presses him, but Lu Yi only says he will "see how I feel," leaving her to happily declare she will wait for him to be in a good mood to ask again. Inside the women's bathhouse, Yuan Jinxia joins two women from the troupe. One of them expresses admiration for Lu Yi, under his stage name Lu Shisan, praising his attractive appearance and talent. Yuan Jinxia playfully offers to act as a matchmaker.

Suddenly, a small stone, secretly thrown by Lu Yi from the adjacent men's bath, hits Yuan Jinxia, startling her. She quickly changes her tune, claiming that Lu Shisan might be difficult to "tame" and that she heard he already has someone in his heart. This only fuels the other women's suspicions, and they tease Yuan Jinxia, suggesting that "she" might be the one Lu Shisan loves.

Yuan Jinxia emphatically denies any such feelings, calling the idea "asking for death," but her strong reaction only convinces the other women she is trying to deter them. After bidding farewell to Sha Xiuzhu, Xie Xiao reveals to Shangguan Xi the true reason he decided to stay: Yuan Jinxia. He explains that as a child, Yuan Jinxia, whom he called "Prawn," protected him from bullies, leading him to secretly vow to grow strong enough to protect her in return.

He recounts feeling distressed seeing Lu Yi order her around and being moved when she injured her shoulder protecting him. Having reflected, Xie Xiao declares his decision to protect Yuan Jinxia for the rest of his life, a pronouncement that brings a look of deep sadness to Shangguan Xi's face. While Yuan Jinxia relaxes in the women's bath, Lu Yi waits outside.

He is approached by Changsheng, who asks if he has seen the troupe Master, a question that sparks Lu Yi's suspicion. Meanwhile, the Master confronts Yuan Jinxia in the bath, holding a blade to her neck. He accuses her of sneaking into his room, stealing a letter, and following him to Langyuan to take his orchids, demanding to know her true identity. Yuan Jinxia attempts to lie her way out, comically blaming her "naughty hand" for her actions.

Suddenly, Lu Yi intervenes, striking the Master down. Yuan Jinxia, realizing her state of undress, quickly covers herself, much to Lu Yi's amusement. When another woman enters the bath area to retrieve a brooch, Lu Yi swiftly covers the unconscious Master with his outer garment and pulls Yuan Jinxia into a close embrace in the spring, creating the illusion of intimacy. The woman, witnessing this, scolds Yuan Jinxia for having lied earlier about Lu Shisan having a sweetheart.

Once the woman leaves, Yuan Jinxia quickly disentangles herself from Lu Yi, and they share a charged moment, their eyes meeting. Lu Yi then playfully asks if she has "seen enough," prompting a flustered Yuan Jinxia to turn away. He tosses his jacket to her, instructing her to get dressed so they can attend to their duties. Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia transport the troupe Master, Wu Jinhua, to Yangzhou prison for interrogation.

Initially defiant, Wu Jinhua claims ignorance regarding Yun Zheyue and demands evidence. Lu Yi confronts him with a note found in Yun Zheyue's puppet, which stated, "This is the last time I will be your replacement singer," and reveals he knows the Master's real name is Wu Jinhua, identifying him as Yun Zheyue's senior brother. Wu Jinhua then agrees to speak but denies murdering Yun Zheyue. He recounts their past as fellow disciples under the Chunxi Troupe's Old Master.

He explains that when the Old Master sought a successor, he discovered Yun Zheyue attempting to poison his tea, a betrayal that enraged him. In retaliation, Wu Jinhua admits to poisoning Yun Zheyue's throat, leaving him voiceless. However, Yun Zheyue later regained his ability to sing even better than before by using a replacement singer. Wu Jinhua expresses his resentment, having watched Yun Zheyue achieve fame with "The Best Perfume" while he remained in the background.

He notes that Yun Zheyue died strangely shortly after his rise to prominence, attributing it to retribution. When questioned about the mysterious phenomena at Langyuan, Wu Jinhua confesses to purchasing the Chunxi Troupe and having a fengshui master rearrange the building, hanging wind chimes to dispel spirits, as he was plagued by nightmares and a failing voice after Yun Zheyue's death.

However, this only exacerbated the issue, leading to nightly sounds of singing and visions of Yun Zheyue's demise during stormy weather, causing the troupe members to flee. Lu Yi, while appearing to agree to spare Wu Jinhua if his story holds true, privately expresses skepticism to Yuan Jinxia, dismissing the Master's claims as fantastical. He explains that the strange occurrences at Langyuan are likely natural phenomena intensified by thunder and lightning, not supernatural events.

He further observes that Wu Jinhua's soft hands prove he couldn't have been the one to kill with needles, though he acknowledges someone else could have carried out the act. Consequently, Lu Yi instructs Yuan Jinxia to re-interrogate Wu Jinhua for additional clues, while Cen Fu is tasked with investigating individuals in Yangzhou skilled in using needles. Xie Xiao boldly informs his father that he intends to marry Yuan Jinxia.

His father reacts with fury, reminding him of his long-standing engagement to Shangguan Xi, who diligently manages all affairs of the Wu'an Sect. Xie Xiao, however, is resolute, declaring that his decision is final and he came only to inform, not to seek approval. He even suggests entrusting all sect responsibilities to Shangguan Xi and leaving with Yuan Jinxia. He believes Shangguan Xi, who understands him better than anyone, will wish him happiness.

His father vehemently refuses, asserting that Shangguan Xi is the only daughter-in-law he will ever recognize, given her immense sacrifices for the sect. Despite Xie Xiao's argument that a forced marriage would harm both him and Shangguan Xi, his father remains unyielding and orders him out. Unbeknownst to them, Shangguan Xi stands just outside the door, heartbroken by the conversation. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia reflects on Lu Yi's insights about Langyuan, particularly his dismissals of spirits and man-made illusions.

She distinctly remembers hearing a child singing "The Best Perfume" there, prompting her to question the identity of this "fake spirit" and the child. Separately, Shangguan Xi recalls a perilous incident from their past when she and Xie Xiao were attacked in Gusu. Xie Xiao had risked his life to save her, a moment that cemented her resolve to protect him for life. Later, Xie Xiao approaches Shangguan Xi, asking her to accompany him to propose to Yuan Jinxia.

He explains his fear that Yuan Jinxia might be apprehensive about his prior engagement and hopes her presence will demonstrate the purely platonic nature of their relationship. Shangguan Xi, noting that Xie Xiao isn't heartless but has simply found his true love now that he has matured, agrees to help him. Yuan Jinxia bravely returns to Langyuan and hears a child singing "The Best Perfume."

She questions the child, who reveals that a "lady" taught him the song, which surprises Yuan Jinxia, as she had expected a man. When she attempts to press for more details, the child becomes frightened and cries. His mother quickly arrives, apologizing and explaining that her son, Xiao Bao, frequently wanders to this desolate place, and she doesn't know who taught him the song. She then admonishes Xiao Bao for playing in an "unclean" area.

Yuan Jinxia later shares her findings with Lu Yi. She proposes that if Wu Jinhua's testimony was true and the replacement singer remained hidden, their investigation might have been misdirected by focusing solely on a male suspect. She reveals that her research into the Chunxi Troupe's past shows only three women: an elderly kitchen worker and two students. While one student performed "The Best Perfume" with Yun Zheyue, the other student has no records, "as if this person never existed."

Lu Yi acknowledges her deduction, stating that while the identity of the killer and the mastermind isn't difficult to predict, the mastermind is currently untouchable. Despite this, he admits to knowing who the killer is but lacks concrete evidence. To draw out the culprit, Lu Yi suggests they stage another play, a theatrical act to "call the spirits out" and "draw the snake from its cave."

That night, Lu Yi hosts a gathering, inviting guests including Mr. Wei and Di Lanye, under the pretense of watching a new play he conceived. The stage is unusually decorated, and Lu Yi explains he wishes for their comments. Among the guests, Constable Yang attempts to engage a melancholic Shangguan Xi, offering her snacks and expressing concern for her well-being. However, Shangguan Xi remains visibly distressed, her attention fixed on the stage.

On stage, Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao, dressed as Taoist priests, begin a ritualistic performance. They appear to be waiting for an expected thunderstorm, noting the stillness despite the forecast. Lu Yi then informs Mr. Wei that he recently encountered a Taoist priest who demonstrated an "outstanding talent" for "calling the spirits out." As the ritual intensifies, thunder and lightning begin to flash. Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao chant an invocation for the dead to appear.

Suddenly, a melancholic voice begins to sing from backstage. A startled Mr. Wei demands to know who is singing, and the voice replies, "Yun Zheyue," shocking the audience, who wonder whether it is a person or a ghost.

Episode 12 Recap

During a dramatic confrontation, Lu Yi explained that the killer of Yun Zheyue, a famous singer, was the same person who murdered Zhou Xianyi. He revealed a Maoshan Taoist had told him that Yun Zheyue’s spirit was restless due to his unsolved murder. The apparition of Yun Zheyue declared that his killer was the woman who had secretly sung in his place. Before he could name her, Zhai Lanye, who was among the onlookers, attacked with silver needles.

Yuan Jinxia immediately identified Zhai Lanye as the murderer. As Zhai Lanye attempted to flee, Yan Shifan arrived in a lavish sedan and helped Lu Yi subdue her. Surprised by Yan Shifan's sudden appearance, Lu Yi admitted that the ghost-summoning was a ruse to expose the killer. He then questioned Zhai Lanye about her motives and her advanced martial arts skills. Zhai Lanye confessed everything. Her father was a martial artist, and she had practiced since she was young.

After her family was killed, she joined the Chunxi Troupe, where she fell in love with Yun Zheyue. When an injury ruined his voice, she secretly sang for him from backstage so he could continue performing. Though she was content with her hidden role, she grew enraged when she discovered he was using her while being in love with another woman. During a final performance, she killed him with a poison needle.

Later, she was sold as a "lean horse" in Yangzhou and met Zhou Xianyi, who promised to marry her but never did. When she learned he had embezzled 100,000 taels of silver meant for dike repairs without using any to free her, she felt utterly betrayed and killed him as well. Her confession finished, Zhai Lanye drank poison and collapsed.

Seeing her dead, Yan Shifan lost interest and departed, mockingly telling Lu Yi he would report this "drama" to the Emperor and take the credit. Later, a distraught Shangguan Xi clutched a sachet Zhai Lanye had given her, lamenting how love so often leads women to ruin. Meanwhile, after the Embroidered Uniform Guard buried Zhai Lanye, a hand burst forth from the grave.

Lu Yi revealed his suspicions about Zhai Lanye to Yuan Jinxia, noting that her residence, Zhou Xianyi's mansion, and the Chunxi Troupe's grounds all grew the same rare orchid. Moreover, the calluses on her hands were from years of practicing martial arts, not playing instruments. Though the murderer was identified, the 100,000 taels were still missing. Lu Yi suggested searching places Zhai Lanye frequented.

Yang Yue interjected that Shangguan Xi was genuinely shocked by the revelation, proving her and Xie Xiao's innocence, a conclusion Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia shared. Lu Yi remained convinced that Zhai Lanye was more than she seemed and that her death was too convenient. On his private boat, Yan Shifan met with a very much alive Zhai Lanye. He had secretly given her a fake poison during their earlier struggle.

He reminisced about how he first admired her voice years ago, and after discovering she had committed murder, he chose to protect her, even giving her the name "Lanye." However, he had a strict rule: any woman he took to the capital must have feet shorter than 6. 6 cun (approx. 20. 5 cm). Because Zhai Lanye's feet were too large, she had to remain in Yangzhou. Zhai Lanye professed her devotion, vowing to wait for him.

It was then revealed that Zhai Lanye had stolen the silver under Yan Shifan's orders and hidden it. Lu Yi deduced that three locations Zhai Lanye often visited formed a triangle around a single point: Yiye Forest. He and Yuan Jinxia went to investigate, splitting up to search. The forest was filled with a disorienting miasma, and through the haze, Yuan Jinxia encountered Zhai Lanye, realizing with a shock that she was alive. Zhai Lanye attacked her.

Lu Yi, who had also noticed the miasma, took an antidote and rushed to find Yuan Jinxia. He arrived just as Zhai Lanye was pursuing her, scaring the attacker away. Yuan Jinxia suffered a minor wound on her arm from a silver needle. Lu Yi tossed her an antidote, assuring her he had already taken one himself.

Meanwhile, Yang Yue found Shangguan Xi grieving at the spot where she had first met Zhai Lanye and brought her homemade snacks to cheer her up. Shangguan Xi recounted meeting Zhai Lanye there three years prior, after Xie Xiao had fled their wedding. Zhai Lanye had told her that she was fortunate, as all Zhai Lanye herself wanted was a stable life with one person, a wish she could never achieve.

Shangguan Xi, identifying with Zhai Lanye's pain from being unlucky in love, broke down in tears while Yang Yue awkwardly tried to comfort her. Back in Yiye Forest, the miasma had weakened both Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia, forcing them to spend the night. Anxious about being alone with him, Yuan Jinxia was tasked with gathering firewood. As they sat by the fire, her stomach rumbled. Lu Yi returned her hand cannon, telling her to hunt for food.

After she missed her shots, he silently moved behind her, guiding her hands to expertly shoot down a pigeon, leaving her stunned. After walking Shangguan Xi home, Yang Yue shyly told her she could always confide in him and awkwardly gave her the rest of the snacks. Just then, Xie Xiao appeared and teased her about spending time with Yang Yue.

In the forest, Yuan Jinxia asked Lu Yi to teach her his shooting skills, and he playfully demanded she offer something in exchange. She sang a folk tune, which stirred a deep emotion in Lu Yi. He closed his eyes to rest as she watched him, and hidden nearby, Zhai Lanye observed them but made no move. The next morning, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia found an abandoned hut containing the 100,000 taels.

Lu Yi immediately knew they had walked into a trap. Zhai Lanye and several assassins descended and attacked them. Just then, Yan Shifan's men arrived, overpowering Zhai Lanye and seizing the silver. Yan Shifan announced that he had been investigating the case all along and would be taking the money, as it belonged to the Ministry of Works.

He also declared his interest in the "resurrected" Zhai Lanye and said he would be taking her as well, to which Lu Yi agreed. Then, to Yuan Jinxia's horror, Yan Shifan pointed at her and announced he was taking her too, to serve as his personal guard.

Episode 13 Recap

Yan Shifan, having already shown interest in Yuan Jinxia, boldly claimed the silver Lu Yi had found, stating it belonged to the Ministry of Works and he would take it. He then declared his admiration for Yuan Jinxia, expressing a desire to keep her as his personal guard. However, seeing Lu Yi's agreeable demeanor, Yan Shifan decided against it, remarking that he wouldn't take such a lovely person away from him.

On the pretext of treating Jinxia's supposed "wounds" and conversing with Lu Yi, he invited them both aboard his painted pleasure boat. Once on the boat, Yuan Jinxia changed into fresh attire. Yan Shifan remarked to Lu Yi that she looked "really pretty" with her makeup. Lu Yi, sensing Yan Shifan's intentions, tried to send Jinxia away, explaining she was merely an inexperienced constable. Yan Shifan refused and challenged Jinxia to deduce something from his outfit.

When she hesitated to treat him like a suspect, he directed her to examine a female attendant instead. After a careful look, Jinxia deduced that the woman was a tea-maker who had recently been punished for a mistake, and that her right hand was likely injured. She elaborated on her reasoning, explaining how calluses, a faint scald mark with a tea aroma, and the tidiness of her hair revealed these details.

Yan Shifan was impressed, and Lu Yi dryly commented that having her around could be "annoying." Yan Shifan then ordered wine, and despite Jinxia's claim that she wasn't a good drinker, he insisted. She discreetly poured her wine away when he wasn't looking. Yan Shifan then pressed Yuan Jinxia, asking why she had lied by omitting the detail about the attendant's injured right hand. He then spoke suggestively of "bedroom pleasure," implying Yuan Jinxia was "ready to try it."

When she tried to excuse herself, Yan Shifan ordered his men to take her to a guest room, insisting she and Lu Yi would stay the night. Lu Yi advised Jinxia to comply. After she was escorted away, Yan Shifan commented to Lu Yi that a girl who was "immature and lack of sense of romance" was not his type and offered Lu Yi his pick of any woman on the boat.

Lu Yi politely declined, citing his father Lu Ting's strictness. Amused, Yan Shifan promised Lu Yi that he would still be accompanied by his "favorite girl" that night. Lu Yi was later led to a room where he discovered Yuan Jinxia wrapped in a quilt. She explained she had been forced to shower and tricked into taking a muscle-softening poison. Lu Yi realized she was Yan Shifan's "gift" to him.

Hearing Yan Shifan and Di Lanye listening and peeking through a hole in the door, Lu Yi began to undress. A terrified Jinxia screamed, calling him a "hypocrite" and "womanizer." Lu Yi leaned close, whispering for her to "keep going" because "they're watching." She continued her cries for help, calling him a "bastard" and "animal," until Yan Shifan, commenting that men show their true selves after drinking, finally left. Once they were alone, Lu Yi told her she could stop.

Relieved, Yuan Jinxia complained that Yan Shifan seemed to bully Lu Yi. She recalled how Yan Shifan had taken the konghou at the auction and how she initially thought Lu Yi had been foolish. She now understood that the instrument and the song "Peach Blossom" must hold special significance for him. Touched by her insight, Lu Yi wrote the characters for "fake weakness" on her hand, telling her there were things she didn't need to understand.

Soon after, her stomach grumbled. Lu Yi ordered beef noodles for her. As she was too weak to move, he patiently blew on the hot noodles and fed them to her, insisting it was an order when she protested. Jinxia gratefully remarked that even her mother hadn't fed her since she was a child. Lu Yi reflected that not everything on the boat was disgusting. The next day, Xie Xiao arrived in Yangzhou with a lively procession to propose marriage.

He asked Yuan Jinxia's master, Yang Chengwan, for her hand, but both Yang Chengwan and Yang Yue said they couldn't make the decision. Yang Yue pointed out Xie Xiao's existing engagement to Shangguan Xi, who was standing by silently. Xie Xiao claimed it was forced. As Lu Yi and Jinxia returned, they witnessed Xie Xiao's direct proposal and presentation of a gift list, which Lu Yi promptly took from Jinxia.

When Xie Xiao tried to pull Jinxia away, Lu Yi stopped him, stating she had important duties. Caught between the two men pulling her arms, Jinxia told Xie Xiao she needed time to think it over and sent him away. As Lu Yi walked off, Jinxia hurried after him to apologize for Xie Xiao's behavior.

She expressed confusion over Shangguan Xi's lack of resentment, so Lu Yi revealed that years ago, Xie Xiao had saved Shangguan Xi’s life by fighting off bandits alone, sustaining near-fatal injuries. Understanding Shangguan Xi's loyalty, Jinxia playfully suggested Lu Yi still had a chance with her, earning a sharp look. Later, Yang Yue confronted Xie Xiao at the Wu'an Sect headquarters, accusing him of being a disloyal playboy and vowing to prevent him from marrying Jinxia.

Their argument nearly came to blows before Shangguan Xi intervened and led Xie Xiao away. Meanwhile, Xie Xiao argued with his ailing father about the marriage. His father, worried about his son's impulsiveness and threats from a rival sect, secretly instructed Shangguan Xi to watch over Xie Xiao and the sect's affairs. Back in the courtyard, Yang Yue found Jinxia cooking his favorite dishes. She explained it was a vegetarian meal for Lu Yi.

Yang Yue gave her a letter from her mother, who, to Jinxia's shock, had accepted a marriage proposal from the Yi family on her behalf. Just then, Lu Yi returned. Jinxia warmly invited him to eat, but he looked at the vegetarian spread with disdain. She quickly explained it was a "vegetarian day" to gain merits, to which he wryly asked if she thought he had done too much evil.

She clarified it was a thank-you meal for his help with Xie Xiao. Still displeased, Lu Yi reminded her that she had said she would consider the proposal. Jinxia quickly backtracked, promising to dissuade Xie Xiao and explaining she wouldn't interfere with his and Shangguan Xi's complicated relationship. Seeing Lu Yi's somber expression, Jinxia offered him wine she had found in his room. Lu Yi explained that fruit wine must be served cold in a crystal glass.

When she admitted she had none, he prepared to leave, but she stopped him and rushed off to find one. After she returned with a glass, they finally sat down to eat. Lu Yi pointed out the lard in her "vegetarian" dish, which she sheepishly justified as being tastier. He agreed to "make do." Jinxia then prepared a spring pancake for him.

He found the seaweed in it odd, and she explained it was a southern custom called a "moistened pancake," a style Yang Yue learned because his father, Yang Chengwan, had lived in Fujian for several years as a child. The detail piqued Lu Yi’s interest, making him wonder why Yang Chengwan, a native of Jiangxi, had spent so much time in Fujian.

Episode 14 Recap

Lu Yi struggled to eat the southern-style moistened pancakes Yuan Jinxia had prepared, leading her to tease him about being a picky eater. She shared a story from her childhood, explaining that her adoptive mother chose her from an orphanage because she was the child who ate with the most gusto. Hearing this, Lu Yi recalled learning about her past.

Jinxia then formally revealed her true reason for the dinner: she hoped Lu Yi would use the Embroidered Uniform Guard's vast information network to help find her biological parents, from whom she was separated as a child. Moved by the request, which reminded him of the loss of his own mother, Lu Yi empathized with her.

When Jinxia expressed her gratitude, Lu Yi playfully pointed out that the ingredients were from the official post station, the dishes were cooked by Yang Yue, and the wine was his, questioning her contribution. Jinxia defended herself, claiming she washed the vegetables, cooked several dishes, and rolled the pancakes. She then offered to make him a large pancake with his favorite fillings, turnip and tofu.

When she tried to toast him, Lu Yi stopped her, forbidding her from drinking wine now or in the future because she is a girl. Jinxia protested she had never been drunk, but Lu Yi reminded her of her drunken incident with Xie Xiao, which she dismissed as an accident. As Lu Yi began serving her food, an uncomfortable Jinxia offered to give him a massage or soak his feet, but he repeatedly refused, insisting he needed nothing from her.

Later, Jinxia was delighted to see Yang Chengwan walking without crutches. She excitedly told him that Lu Yi had agreed to help search for her parents. However, Yang Chengwan sternly ordered both Jinxia and Yang Yue to kneel. He berated them for their recklessness in dealing with the Embroidered Uniform Guard, warning that in Lu Yi’s eyes, a lowly constable like Jinxia was "no different from a dog" and accused her of shamelessly trying to social climb.

Deeply hurt, Jinxia protested that she had done nothing wrong. Softening his tone, Yang Chengwan explained he was afraid she would get hurt, advising her to "respect and stay away" from a man of Lu Yi's high status. He concluded by saying he had his own plans to find her parents. After being promoted to Assistant of the Upper Fourth Rank for recovering the stolen silver, Lu Yi decided to extend their stay in Yangzhou to enjoy the scenery.

He was noticeably displeased to learn that Jinxia and Yang Yue had gone to the Wu'an Sect. There, Jinxia and Yang Yue discovered that the Dongs' Sect on the Water had forcibly occupied the wharf. Rushing to the scene, they found Dong Qisheng proposing a marriage alliance with the Wu'an Sect to control all local shipping. Master Xie angrily rebuked him for betraying his grandfather's principles, but Dong Qisheng mocked him and flirted with Shangguan Xi.

Enraged, Xie Xiao attacked Dong Qisheng. The dispute was interrupted by Mr. Wei, a local official, who ordered them to settle the matter that day. Dong Qisheng proposed a martial arts competition for control of the wharf, which Master Xie accepted, despite Xie Xiao’s furious objections. Jinxia, sensing a trap, told Yang Yue to watch Dong Qisheng for foul play while she sought a solution. After being persuaded by Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue, Xie Xiao agreed to compete.

Before the match, Dong Qisheng tricked Master Xie into drinking a bowl of wine as a supposed martial arts tradition. Meanwhile, Jinxia pleaded with Lu Yi for help, explaining that Dong Qisheng was a cruel man who would oppress the people and might even collude with Japanese pirates if he won control of the wharf. Lu Yi coldly refused to get involved, and Jinxia left in a huff.

At the competition, Master Xie and other Wu'an Sect members collapsed with stomach pains, having been poisoned with a laxative. Xie Xiao, Shangguan Xi, Yang Yue, and Jinxia had to fight in their place. Lu Yi arrived and observed, noting that the man fighting Jinxia was a wanted criminal. The Wu'an Sect was quickly disadvantaged; Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi were pushed out of the designated area and disqualified, and Xie Xiao was injured by a hidden weapon.

Just as Jinxia was about to be defeated, Lu Yi joined the fight as the Wu'an Sect's fifth member. Dong Qisheng protested, but Master Xie argued that the rules didn't specify when the fifth member had to appear. With Lu Yi's intervention, Xie Xiao managed to secure victory.

When Dong Qisheng furiously accused them of cheating by using an outsider, Lu Yi revealed that his men were actually wanted criminals known as the Wu brothers, whom he was there to arrest. This silenced Dong Qisheng, and the Wu'an Sect regained the wharf. Master Xie profusely thanked Lu Yi, who maintained that his only goal was to capture the fugitives, telling a smiling Jinxia not to overthink his actions.

Later, Jinxia visited the injured Xie Xiao, who dramatically exaggerated his pain and insisted she apply his medicine. As she treated his wounds, he screamed in agony, but she told him to endure it. Afterward, he grabbed her hand to confess his feelings, but Jinxia cut him off and left. Undeterred, Xie Xiao shouted from his room, "Yuan Jinxia, I like you! I will marry you!"

Shangguan Xi overheard this and, in a fit of rage, stormed into her room and began smashing things, accidentally hitting Yang Yue, who had followed her. Refusing to dodge the blow, Yang Yue offered her medicine for a cut on her hand and told her he was willing to be her emotional outlet if it made her feel better.

Episode 15 Recap

After Xie Xiao publicly confessed his feelings to Yuan Jinxia, Shangguan Xi was visibly upset and accidentally injured Yang Yue. Despite being hurt, Yang Yue did not blame her. Instead, he offered a comforting presence, stating he would not dodge if she needed to vent her frustrations on him to feel better. He then gave her a healing ointment he had brought from the capital, assuring her it would prevent a scar.

Shangguan Xi accepted the medicine before asking to be left alone. Later, Yuan Jinxia, Lu Yi, Xie Xiao, Shangguan Xi, and Yang Yue visited a night market. Xie Xiao dutifully followed Yuan Jinxia, who was captivated by the art of paper cutting and eagerly invited everyone to try it. Shangguan Xi meticulously cut a paper resembling the twin swords she and Xie Xiao practiced with at Shaolin Monastery, gifting it to him.

Xie Xiao sheepishly presented his own paper-cut, claiming it was a portrait of Yuan Jinxia, though she jokingly pointed out its lack of resemblance. Yuan Jinxia created a "Kun," a mythical flying fish, explaining her wish to become one and travel freely. Lu Yi, however, refused to participate, dismissing it as a child's activity. After Xie Xiao playfully teased him, he pulled Yuan Jinxia away, leaving Lu Yi to pay for the paper.

Xie Xiao led Yuan Jinxia to the lakeside, presenting her with a bouquet of roses. He earnestly confessed his sincere affection, explaining that after reflecting on his previous impatience, he had decided to properly court her in the hope that she would see his merits and accept him. He even quoted a romantic poem, though Yuan Jinxia interjected that she was not the maiden in the verse. From a distance, Lu Yi and Shangguan Xi observed the scene.

Seeing people release lanterns, Lu Yi remarked on humanity's tendency to pin dreams on unrealistic things, to which Shangguan Xi responded that dreams are inherently beautiful. After a long pause, Yuan Jinxia acknowledged Xie Xiao as the first man to express such feelings for her, expressing gratitude but unequivocally stating that she only considered him a brother.

A deeply disappointed Xie Xiao was left in an awkward silence as Yuan Jinxia tried to leave, but he vowed never to give up on her. Soon after, Xie Xiao bid farewell, followed by Shangguan Xi, who thanked Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia for their help. Lu Yi then instructed Yang Yue to purchase some lanterns. When Yuan Jinxia inquired about his sudden interest, Lu Yi replied that he just wanted to have a dream.

Later, Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi sat by the lake, admiring the myriad of lanterns. Lu Yi shared that in the past, after returning from missions with blood on his hands, he would often sit by the river and close his eyes to find relaxation in the sounds of nature. He mused that Yangzhou now felt like a beautiful dream from which one was reluctant to awaken.

Lu Yi then abruptly asked Yuan Jinxia if she rejected Xie Xiao because of Shangguan Xi, recalling how Yuan Jinxia had once intentionally wounded herself for him. Stunned, Yuan Jinxia asked how he knew. Lu Yi revealed he had orchestrated the entire situation.

Realizing she had been a pawn, Yuan Jinxia grew indignant, but Lu Yi skillfully twisted the situation, implying that since she had tried to trick him and he had given her royal medicine for her wound, they were now even. Lu Yi then invited her to make a wish, offering all wishes to her. Yuan Jinxia wished for a pay raise for Department Six to help find her birth parents, and for Lu Yi to be happy and smile more.

Lu Yi responded with a slight smirk. Later, as the group celebrated Yang Chengwan's recovering leg, a severely wounded and poisoned member of the Wu'an Sect arrived. The dying man told Xie Xiao that Japanese pirates were responsible for the attack. After the man succumbed to his injuries, a grief-stricken Xie Xiao urged the doctor to re-examine him. As Yuan Jinxia inspected the wounds, Xie Xiao’s fearful overreaction about poison earned him an annoyed glance from Lu Yi.

They determined the five precise wounds were from ninjutsu, a Japanese martial art. Enraged, Xie Xiao vowed revenge, and the trio immediately headed to the reeds, the location of the attack. As Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao bickered, they heard boisterous Japanese pirates nearby. The trio hid, observing the pirates boasting about their loot and planning to burn down the local village.

Sensing something, the pirates drew their swords and launched hidden weapons, but Lu Yi skillfully countered, injuring some and causing the rest to flee. The three split up and apprehended them all. Yuan Jinxia discovered a token with a mysterious pattern on one of the captured pirates. Most of the pirates quickly died from self-administered poison, leaving only one survivor. The man, speaking fluent Chinese, identified himself as Wang Mazi, a local fisherman forced to be their interpreter.

As Yuan Jinxia questioned his story, Lu Yi silenced them, spotting a larger group of Japanese pirates passing by. Seizing the distraction, Wang Mazi escaped. Lu Yi decided against chasing him, opting instead to follow the larger group to find their hideout. Meanwhile, Dong Qisheng arrived at the wharf to harass Shangguan Xi, audaciously proposing marriage. She fiercely rejected him. Unable to defeat her, Dong Qisheng and his men retreated, but not before threatening her.

Shangguan Xi ordered strict vigilance at the wharf. Just then, a sect member rushed to inform her of the Japanese attack on their men. Concerned, Yang Yue accompanied her as they hurried with their men towards the reeds. Lu Yi, Yuan Jinxia, and Xie Xiao tracked the pirates to a sheer cliff, leaving subtle marks along their route. They watched the pirates ascend a makeshift ladder and followed.

At the top, they found no trace of the pirates, only a stone tablet inscribed with "Longdan Village." A strange bamboo whistle pierced the air, and Xie Xiao went to investigate. Shortly after, both Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi suddenly collapsed, unconscious. Back at the reeds, Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi discovered the bodies of the dead pirates. Yang Yue deduced they had committed suicide by poison after a fierce fight.

Finding a dart without bloodstains, he concluded the trio was safe and then spotted a distinctive mark left by Yuan Jinxia, indicating their direction. Elsewhere, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia regained consciousness to find themselves bound to pillars, surrounded by villagers shouting for their deaths. Lu Yi explained they had inhaled a narcotic and would be weakened for hours.

Episode 16 Recap

Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia found themselves bound to pillars, their limbs heavy and weak from an inhaled anesthetic that would render them powerless for several hours. Around them, an angry crowd of villagers clamored for their deaths, shouting to burn them as outsiders and bad omens. Despite their predicament, Yuan Jinxia defiantly cursed their captors. The village Chieftain, Shi, then arrived with a young Taoist priest, Lan Qingxuan, whom the villagers revered as Master Lan.

Declaring the pair "bad omens," Lan Qingxuan began a theatrical exorcism ceremony, complete with chants and what appeared to be magically summoned thunder. While the villagers were convinced, Yuan Jinxia rolled her eyes, certain he was a fraud. Still contemplating killing the captives, Chieftain Shi sought Lan Qingxuan's advice. Lan Qingxuan, secretly fearing divine wrath if they were killed, suggested they be locked up to await the gods' decision.

Chieftain Shi agreed and ordered them moved to a wood storage room. As they were dragged away, Yuan Jinxia continued to call Lan Qingxuan a "damned fraud." Afterward, Lan Qingxuan accepted remuneration from Chieftain Shi, and they discussed the Shi family's long history in the village and their reluctance to move. Meanwhile, Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi followed Yuan Jinxia's marks to a cliff, though Yang Yue struggled to interpret their direction.

Inside the wood storage room, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia discussed the peculiar village, noting it was absent from any Yangzhou map and wondering about the strange disappearance of the Japanese pirates. They also pondered the "mad men," who were incredibly strong, felt no pain, and seemed to be controlled by a bamboo flute. A kind elderly woman, the Chieftain's wife, brought them a mat for comfort.

Yuan Jinxia tried to explain their innocence, while Lu Yi quickly claimed that Yuan Jinxia was his unwell wife and they were searching for a rare herb nearby. The lady expressed sympathy but admitted she was powerless to intervene, though she promised to relay their words to the chieftain. After she left, Yuan Jinxia questioned Lu Yi's choice to pretend they were married instead of siblings.

Lu Yi explained that a husband risking his life for his sick wife would evoke far more sympathy. He then leaned against Yuan Jinxia, claiming fatigue, causing her to freeze. Elsewhere, Lan Qingxuan was enjoying liquor and roasted chicken when the Chieftain's young son, Xiaoxin, burst in. Xiaoxin threatened to expose Lan Qingxuan for breaking Taoist rules, but Lan Qingxuan quickly bribed him with chicken, claiming the old rules were outdated and true devotion came from the heart.

As night fell, Shangguan Xi continued to drink heavily, much to Yang Yue's concern. In her drunken haze, she mistook Yang Yue for Xie Xiao, lamenting why everyone but Xie Xiao himself could see her feelings for him. Yang Yue tried to comfort her, but Shangguan Xi clarified, "You are not him. You can't replace him." Her words saddened Yang Yue deeply as she finally fell asleep.

Back in the wood storage room, Lu Yi, having recovered his strength, quietly untied himself and Yuan Jinxia. Later, Lan Qingxuan, attempting to leave the village, made his way to a cliff but discovered the vine ladder had been destroyed. Before he could react, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia appeared and cornered him.

Faced with the sheer drop, Lan Qingxuan frantically begged for mercy and confessed that the Shi family had been in hiding for years, but six months ago, a strange disease began turning villagers into violent, pain-resistant "mad men." He admitted to fabricating the "wrath of the gods" narrative to save their lives. Furious, Yuan Jinxia beat him. Lan Qingxuan then recounted seeing several black-clad men dragging someone into the forest earlier that night.

Suspecting it might be Xie Xiao, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia compelled the fearful Lan Qingxuan to lead them. Reluctantly, Lan Qingxuan led them through the forest, where they stumbled upon Xie Xiao being attacked by multiple "mad men." They fought off the attackers and rescued him, noting that the assailants stopped their pursuit the moment Xie Xiao fell into a body of water. Meanwhile, Yang Chengwan and Yang Yue grew deeply worried about their missing companions.

In another location, Di Lanye informed Yan Shifan that Lu Yi had found Longdan village. Unconcerned, Yan Shifan ordered the local leader to be on alert and to "do what needs to be done" if necessary. As Yuan Jinxia bandaged Xie Xiao's injuries, he smiled, reminded of his childhood when she would tend to his scrapes. He began to express his feelings for her, but Lu Yi interrupted them.

Lan Qingxuan led them to a small wooden hut he had found. Lu Yi suggested they stay there for the night, instructing Yuan Jinxia and Lan Qingxuan to clean the hut while he went hunting. He then goaded a reluctant Xie Xiao into joining him. As Lu Yi and Xie Xiao set off, their competitive natures flared.

Xie Xiao accused Lu Yi of trying to separate him from Yuan Jinxia, while Lu Yi countered that she was merely his subordinate, subtly reminding Xie Xiao of his recent marriage rejection. They returned with a wild chicken caught by Lu Yi. Yuan Jinxia complimented Lu Yi's skill, prompting a jealous Xie Xiao to vow he would hunt a bigger one tomorrow.

When they ate, Xie Xiao offered a chicken leg to Yuan Jinxia, but she passed it to Lu Yi, much to Xie Xiao's chagrin. Lan Qingxuan then formally introduced himself. Noticing Yuan Jinxia consistently addressing Lu Yi as "Your Excellency," he shrewdly deduced they were officials, which Lu Yi confirmed, stating they were investigating a case. During the meal, Xie Xiao recounted his terrifying escape, explaining he had been chased to a cliff and forced to jump into the water.

He revealed the crucial detail: the mad men stopped attacking him the moment he entered the water. Lu Yi's expression turned serious as he deduced that the mad men distinguish friend from foe by smell, which the water had masked. They summarized the characteristics of the "Mad Men's Disease": unusual violence, an absence of pain, and a lack of fear, noting they only attack uninfected people.

Lan Qingxuan, hearing of Japanese pirates, realized with a shock that the black-clad men he had seen were pirates. Lu Yi confirmed they were the same ones who had murdered people in the Wu'an Sect. He concluded that the mad men and the Japanese pirates were undoubtedly connected, and that unless they solved this mystery, they might never leave the village alive.

Episode 17 Recap

Xie Xiao thrashed in his sleep, repeatedly calling out Yuan Jinxia's name. Lu Yi, visibly annoyed, stepped out of the small wooden cabin. Yuan Jinxia soon followed, finding him staring intently at the bracelet she had previously damaged. Noticing his earlier fury over it, she asked if it was a love token from a girl. Lu Yi corrected her, explaining it represented "everlasting family love" rather than romantic affection.

He shared a poignant memory from his childhood: his mother often played the "Peach Blossom" for him, and on one joyous night, his father, Lu Ting, returned home early to join them. This happiness was tragically cut short when intruders suddenly appeared and killed his mother. Lu Yi revealed he had secretly carried a string from his mother's broken instrument, stained with her blood, ever since as a memento.

Yuan Jinxia expressed her deep sorrow upon hearing his story, and Lu Yi advised her to return inside as dawn approached. Later, Yuan Jinxia awoke to Lu Yi returning with wild fruits he had gathered. He told her Xie Xiao had gone to hunt pheasants, and Lan Qingxuan had likely followed. Suddenly, they heard horses approaching. Intrigued, they investigated and found two horses, but their discovery was interrupted by an ambush from black-clad assailants.

Amidst the chaos, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia managed to mount the horses and escape. During the chase, Lu Yi's precious bracelet slipped from his grasp. Yuan Jinxia, noticing it, turned back without hesitation to retrieve it. Witnessing her reckless act, Lu Yi immediately gave chase. Yuan Jinxia, holding the bracelet high, waved to him just before she was almost captured. Lu Yi intervened swiftly, pulling her onto his horse.

Once they were safe, Yuan Jinxia playfully returned the bracelet, urging him not to lose such an important item again, then departed, oblivious to the profound emotion on Lu Yi's face. Yuan Jinxia awoke from a vivid dream where Lu Yi held her hand and embraced her by a lake. She chastised herself for indulging in such a romantic dream during a dangerous time, especially one involving Lu Yi, yet found herself captivated once more while watching him rest.

Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi was led to a desolate place by a subordinate, Fei, who revealed he was forced to betray her because his mother had been captured. Dong Qisheng then appeared, confirming he had orchestrated the trap using a myasthenia poison. Dong Qisheng feigned a polite invitation, but Shangguan Xi rebuked his forceful methods. Elsewhere, Yang Yue, distracted from tending a fire, was consumed with worry for Shangguan Xi.

He was troubled by the memory of her drunkenly lamenting her unrequited love for Xie Xiao, and his concern grew to the point that he decided he must go check on her. Back at the cabin, Lu Yi informed the others that Japanese pirates had located them, urging everyone to pack and depart immediately. Suddenly, the distinct sound of a bamboo whistle filled the air, signaling the arrival of the "mad villagers," who began rushing towards their dwelling.

As they scrambled inside, Lan Qingxuan seized an opportunity to escape on a horse, leaving the others behind. Trapped, Yuan Jinxia deduced that the villagers tracked by scent, noticing that a nearby flower's scent matched that on the villagers. She instructed Lu Yi and Xie Xiao to place the flowers in their hair, a strategy that worked, allowing them to pass the villagers unharmed. Shortly after, Lan Qingxuan reappeared with Chieftain Shi, explaining he had clarified the misunderstandings.

Chieftain Shi invited them back to the village for a formal apology and a celebratory drink. During the communal dinner, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia grew suspicious when Lan Qingxuan was noticeably absent and were told he was resting due to illness. At the same time, the weakened Shangguan Xi was presented with a feast by Dong Qisheng. When she defiantly refused his attempts to feed her, he brought in her captured Wu'an Sect members, including a remorseful Fei.

Dong Qisheng ordered his men to brutally beat them in front of Shangguan Xi, attempting to break her will and force her to join his sect in exchange for power. Enraged, Shangguan Xi vehemently rejected his offer. As Dong Qisheng threatened to torture her people one by one, Yang Yue burst in to rescue Shangguan Xi, but he was quickly overpowered and captured. After dinner, a village woman led a seemingly inebriated Yuan Jinxia to a room.

Once the woman departed, Yuan Jinxia, who had merely feigned drunkenness, set out to find Lan Qingxuan. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi, now bound alongside Yang Yue, chastised him for his reckless rescue attempt. Yang Yue, however, found comfort in their shared predicament. Yuan Jinxia discovered Lan Qingxuan tied up in a dark room. He confessed that his earlier escape was to get help, but he had to reveal their official identities to gain the chieftain's trust.

He then revealed the terrible truth: Chieftain Shi planned to sacrifice Lu Yi, Xie Xiao, and Yuan Jinxia that very night by sinking them into an ancient well to suppress an ominous spirit. While Xie Xiao remained sound asleep, a suspicious Lu Yi stepped outside and hid upon hearing approaching footsteps. He watched as Chieftain Shi's men entered the cabin and carried the sleeping Xie Xiao away.

Lan Qingxuan further explained to Yuan Jinxia that the Shi people had guarded the ancient well for generations, believing a terrifying man-eating dragon resided within it, which demanded a living sacrifice every three years. Alarmed, Yuan Jinxia rushed to Lu Yi's room, only to find it empty. Realizing the grave danger, she ran to the ancestral hall and, upon seeing the ancient well, leaped into its depths without hesitation. After Yuan Jinxia had departed, Lu Yi found Lan Qingxuan.

Lan hastily recounted how he had discovered the ancestral hall and its ancient well upon first arriving in the village. He revealed his encounter with a boy named Xiao Xin, who was hiding in the well, searching for the "Dragon Lord." Xiao Xin had shared the legend that the Shi people had guarded the well for 2,000 years for a trapped evil dragon that required a human sacrifice every three years.

Recognizing the dire peril Yuan Jinxia was in, Lu Yi immediately raced towards the well. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia had already reached the bottom. She observed mysterious murals on the stone walls that appeared to depict a story. Discovering a hidden mechanism, she activated it, revealing a secret door. Lighting a candle, she cautiously proceeded, only to shriek in terror upon encountering withered human bones. Pushing forward, she opened another door, revealing a furnished room where mysterious shadowy figures began to dart around, causing her to panic.

Episode 18 Recap

Yuan Jinxia, startled by a face appearing suddenly, stumbled back with a scream. She quickly pulled out her hand cannon and aimed it at the mysterious man, demanding his identity. After he calmly addressed her, she apologized for intruding and asked if he had seen two missing men. The man confirmed he hadn't and asked if she knew of the Dragon Confining Well, a legendary place where Yu the Great supposedly locked captured dragons.

He explained that the sounds she had heard were merely echoes in the empty well, not voices. The man, who had been imprisoned for a year, introduced himself as Mr. Beggar, embracing a name Yuan Jinxia had used to describe him. He claimed that Japanese pirates had locked him there to cultivate the rare Blue Hairpin, a type of blue Longdan flower.

Noting his capital accent, Yuan Jinxia learned his story, which culminated in the audacious claim that Lu Ting, the Supreme Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guards, was his nephew. With no tools to free him, Yuan Jinxia promised to return, and Mr. Beggar urged her to leave quickly via the route the pirates used. Meanwhile, Yang Yue, using a trick learned from Yuan Jinxia, untied the ropes binding him and Shangguan Xi.

After knocking out their guards, they cautiously escaped their confinement. Below ground, Yuan Jinxia, believing she could put Lu Yi in her debt by rescuing his alleged grand-uncle, attempted to retrace her steps. She found the stone tablets had shifted, trapping her in a complex maze. As she navigated the passages, several shadowy figures flickered past, confirming her suspicion that she was being hunted. Realizing she couldn't defeat them, Yuan Jinxia began to run.

Above, Yang Yue created a diversion by setting fire to Dong Qisheng's room, allowing him and Shangguan Xi to escape into the woods. In the maze, Yuan Jinxia's legs ached, and just as a black-clad attacker lunged, her hand cannon ran out of ammunition. At that critical moment, Lu Yi appeared, intercepting the attacker. He admonished her for her impulsiveness and for causing him trouble.

Lu Yi then produced Yuan Jinxia's magnifying glass, which he had found by the well, revealing he had come down specifically to rescue her. Overcome with gratitude, Yuan Jinxia profusely thanked him, offering to repay his kindness in her next life. Lu Yi, however, insisted she repay him in this life. She then recounted her encounter with Mr. Beggar, excitedly explaining that he was Lu Yi's grand-uncle and that Lu Yi should call him "grandfather."

Lu Yi, however, was highly skeptical, noting that his own grandfather had passed away more than two decades ago. As Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue moved through the dark forest, Shangguan Xi expressed her fear of the dark. Yang Yue gathered several fireflies, presenting them to her to provide some light and comfort. Yuan Jinxia led Lu Yi to Mr. Beggar, who was delighted to meet Lu Ting's son and immediately claimed Lu Yi as his grand-nephew.

Lu Yi, reluctant to accept this, requested proof. Mr. Beggar confidently recounted details from Lu Yi's childhood, including his full name, Wenyuan, and a mole on his arm, remarking that Lu Yi’s cautious nature reminded him of his "ruthless father." Though Lu Yi conceded the point about his father, he refused to call the man "grandfather." Mr. Beggar, finding the title aging, suggested Lu Yi simply call him "Mr. Beggar."

He explained that the pirate leader, aware of his background in a medical family, had imprisoned him to cultivate the Blue Hairpin. He added that these pirates were of mixed origins, with many being Chinese from Jiangnan. After Lu Yi cut his chains, Mr. Beggar led them to an area filled with Blue Hairpin flowers, warning them about the highly poisonous "gut-wrenching grass" growing nearby.

He explained that a specific herbal fertilizer transformed the otherwise harmless Longdan flowers into the Blue Hairpin, which contained a hallucinogenic toxin that induced madness. This was the cause of the villagers' condition. The pirates had discovered its properties by accident and kidnapped him to produce more. However, he had secretly altered the formula, ensuring the affected villagers were not contagious. Just as they prepared to destroy the plants, pirates burst in, but Lu Yi swiftly subdued them.

Under interrogation, a captured pirate revealed their badge featured the "Boat Ghost," a Japanese legend their boss, Mao Haifeng, used as a totem. The pirate also disclosed an emergency escape path. After destroying all the Blue Hairpin, the group prepared to leave. Elsewhere, Shangguan Xi, though confident the Wu'an Sect would retaliate against Dong Qisheng's treachery, remained deeply worried about Xie Xiao.

Meanwhile, in the Shi family's ancestral hall, the clan leader offered a captured Xie Xiao as a human sacrifice to the ancient well, hoping to pacify the "Dragon Lord" and save his people from being displaced. Lu Yi, Yuan Jinxia, and Mr. Beggar returned to the stone tablets, discovering they had once again shifted. Simultaneously, the Shi clan sealed the well, having thrown Xie Xiao into its depths. Xie Xiao landed dazed but alive, his fall broken by Lu Yi.

Yuan Jinxia explained that he had been tricked into becoming a sacrifice. Realizing the pirates moved freely, Lu Yi deduced there must be a secret passage, and they decided to split up to search for it. As they searched, they examined ancient murals. Lu Yi observed that the reliefs on the walls were alternately raised and sunken and noticed a Taiji map on the floor. He theorized that the shifting stone tablets were arranged in an eight trigrams array.

Citing the "Commentary on the Water Classic," he concluded that the "dragon" in the legend referred to floods. The well was an ancient water control mechanism designed to divert floodwaters to the sea, and the tablet shifts were caused by a mechanism triggered by the ocean's tides.

Episode 19 Recap

Lu Yi, demonstrating his sharp intellect, deduced the timing of the tides. He explained that since it was the period of receding water, the path connected to the sea eye would be accessible, providing them with an escape route. Using the principles of the eight-trigram array, specifically the "kan" trigram for water and its symmetric "li" trigram, he pinpointed the two directions where the ancient people might have designed mechanisms for water flow.

Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao quickly found the mechanism, leading Lu Yi to identify the sea eye. He then plunged into the water, with Yuan Jinxia, Xie Xiao, and Mr. Beggar following close behind. Meanwhile, Zhai Lanye met with Mr. Mao. She informed him that Lu Yi had already visited Longdan Village. Mr. Mao, confident that Lu Yi could never uncover the secret beneath the Dragon Confining Well, initially dismissed the news.

However, his composure shattered when a subordinate reported that the well had indeed been destroyed. Enraged, Mr. Mao immediately ordered the abandonment of Longdan Village. He commanded that all the madmen be released, the old man who cultivated the Blue Hairpin, Mr. Beggar, be brought to him, and that no one else be left alive. The group emerged from the sea eye into a pool connected to the Dragon Confining Well.

Yuan Jinxia, deeply impressed by Lu Yi's intelligence, expressed her admiration. Mr. Beggar observed Yuan Jinxia's adoration and then asked Xie Xiao if he was fond of her. When Xie Xiao admitted his feelings, Mr. Beggar pointed out that Yuan Jinxia's affection clearly lay with Lu Yi, concluding that they were a perfect match. Elsewhere, the captive Lan Qingxuan was secretly freed by a young girl named Xin.

She warned him that she had witnessed her father and uncles throw a man into the well the previous night and urged him to escape before he was also sacrificed. As Lan Qingxuan fled, he discovered the village under attack by madmen. At the same time, Lu Yi, Yuan Jinxia, and Xie Xiao arrived back in Longdan Village, confronting the chaos.

Lu Yi realized the madmen were being controlled by a whistler and tasked Xie Xiao with holding them off while he dealt with the source. Determined to protect Yuan Jinxia, Xie Xiao refused to leave her side. Seeing the dire situation, Mr. Beggar explained that the madmen identify people by smell. He lit a bundle of Blue Hairpin, instructing everyone to cover their noses and control their breathing, which swiftly incapacitated the attackers.

With the madmen subdued, the villagers, led by Chieftain Shi, questioned how Xie Xiao, whom they had sacrificed, was still alive. Yuan Jinxia compelled Lan Qingxuan to explain. He reluctantly confessed that his pronouncements about curses were fabrications and admitted to misleading them. Mr. Beggar then revealed that the madmen were not cursed but poisoned by a substance called "Blue Hairpin." When he admitted to creating this poison, the villagers erupted in anger, demanding his death.

Mr. Beggar clarified that pirates had trapped him and forced him to produce the poison, insisting he had not administered it to the villagers. He promised to do his best to detoxify them but warned that even if the poison was removed, they would likely remain mentally impaired for life. As a last resort, he spoke of an old friend, a reclusive expert in Maple Col, who might possess a complete cure.

In Yangzhou, Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue were being shunned by the townspeople. A passerby revealed that the Dongs' Sect on the Water had been massacred the previous day, with over a hundred lives lost, and she was being blamed for the brutal act. Rushing back to the Wu'an Sect, Shangguan Xi met members who had been captured by the Dongs' Sect. They thanked her for saving them, yet none had actually seen her during the rescue.

Bewildered, Shangguan Xi told Yang Yue she could not accept the blame for such a heinous crime. Back at his stronghold, Mr. Mao was informed that his greenhouse had been destroyed and the Blue Hairpin had vanished. Furious, he ordered his men to find and kill Lu Yi's group, but to capture the old man, Mr. Beggar, alive. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue arrived at the gruesome scene of the massacre.

Zhai Lanye appeared, and Shangguan Xi, sensing a confrontation, asked Yang Yue to step away. Alone, Shangguan Xi accused Zhai Lanye of the murders. Zhai Lanye coldly suggested that Shangguan Xi should be pleased that Dong Qisheng was gone. Shangguan Xi rejected this, declared their friendship over, and tried to apprehend her. As they fought, Shangguan Xi was stunned by Zhai Lanye’s formidable martial arts skills.

Zhai Lanye confessed that meeting Shangguan Xi while disguised as a "lean horse of Yangzhou" had been the happiest time for her, but then insulted her. After a tense exchange, they ceased their combat and parted ways, their relationship severed forever. Suddenly, Mr. Mao arrived at Longdan Village with his men, confronting Lu Yi for destroying his "property," the Dragon Confining Well.

Mr. Mao boasted about the superiority of Japanese mystic arts over Chinese kung fu, which Lu Yi dismissed as a "small Japanese skill." A battle erupted. Lu Yi engaged Mr. Mao directly, instructing Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao to protect the villagers. During the fight, Lu Yi wounded Mr. Mao but was stabbed himself while shielding villagers. Seeing Lu Yi injured, Yuan Jinxia fired her pistol, hitting Mr. Mao.

As a poisonous dart flew towards her, Lu Yi blocked it with his own body. Yuan Jinxia immediately pulled the dart out. Wounded, Mr. Mao ordered a retreat, igniting explosives planted throughout the village. In the ensuing chaos, his men seized Mr. Beggar and dragged him away. The village was engulfed in explosions, causing heavy casualties. Xin watched her parents perish in the blasts before Lan Qingxuan scooped her up and fled to safety.

Lu Yi realized with horror that the pirates must have planted the dynamite during their previous attack. Later, Lan Qingxuan and Xin returned to find Longdan Village a desolate wasteland. As Xin frantically searched for her parents in the rubble, Lan Qingxuan held her close, promising to care for her from now on. Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi located an unconscious but alive Xie Xiao. However, Lu Yi, gravely wounded, was fading fast.

Lan Qingxuan examined him and confirmed he was seriously poisoned by the dart, pointing to the dark, corrupted blood. Anxious, Yuan Jinxia recalled Mr. Beggar's reclusive friend. She gave Lan Qingxuan a token and a task: take Xie Xiao back to the Wu'an Sect, find Yang Yue in Yangzhou to report what happened, and tell him to follow the Department Six marks she would leave to rendezvous with her.

Yuan Jinxia then set off with the ailing Lu Yi to find the expert in Maple Col. Lan Qingxuan brought Xie Xiao and Xin to the Wu'an Sect. Xie Xiao awoke to find Shangguan Xi by his side. After hearing his account, Shangguan Xi proposed reporting the matter to the authorities. Xie Xiao, however, was determined to find Yuan Jinxia himself. Shangguan Xi strongly opposed this, citing the danger.

Frustrated by her overprotectiveness, Xie Xiao confronted her, asking when she would stop treating him like a child. He then confessed his profound love for Yuan Jinxia, stating he could never forgive himself if any harm came to her. Understanding the depth of his feelings, Shangguan Xi relented, allowing him to go.

Episode 20 Recap

Confronting Shangguan Xi, Xie Xiao expressed his deep feelings for Yuan Jinxia, questioning his own usefulness and her constant control over his actions. He confessed his strong affection for Yuan Jinxia, stating that he would regret it for the rest of his life if anything happened to her. Seeing his determination, Shangguan Xi relented and let him go.

Xie Xiao then encountered Yang Yue, telling him that he and Yuan Jinxia had been separated and instructing Yang Yue to notify the local authorities while he went to find them. After he left, a troubled Shangguan Xi asked Yang Yue to accompany her elsewhere. Shangguan Xi led Yang Yue to a secluded spot where she had buried a jar of "Nv'er Hong" wine, prepared by her father twenty years ago for her wedding.

Feeling empty and disillusioned with Xie Xiao, she intended to drink it, believing it was no longer needed. Yang Yue dissuaded her, emphasizing the liquor's significance. Shangguan Xi confessed her long, unrequited wait for Xie Xiao. Yang Yue, trying to comfort her, observed that Xie Xiao simply took her devotion for granted. He then tossed the jar into a nearby lake, promising to personally retrieve it for her when she found a man who truly cherished her.

Shangguan Xi wondered if she would ever marry, but Yang Yue assured her that a good person like her would surely find someone who treated her well. Later, Lan Qingxuan and his disciple Xin arrived at the Guangling Official Postal Relay Station looking for Yang Yue. They found him with Shangguan Xi and delivered an urgent message from Yuan Jinxia: Lu Yi had been poisoned by a strange toxin, and they were heading to Zhenjiang to find a medical expert.

Yuan Jinxia was leaving Department Six marks along the way for them to follow. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Yang Yue decided to immediately inform his father and depart. Lan Qingxuan and Xin, having completed their task, decided to return to their sect, the Danqing Taoist Temple. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia struggled through a heavy downpour, supporting a delirious Lu Yi.

When Lu Yi finally collapsed, she desperately pleaded for him to wake up, vowing to never again speak ill of him, argue with him, or disobey his commands. She insisted that she would not let him die. With her encouragement, Lu Yi stirred, and Yuan Jinxia continued to help him forward. After the rain cleared, she found an inn to let Lu Yi rest.

His face was pallid, and the antidote proved ineffective; he could only try to suppress the potent toxin with his own internal energy while Yuan Jinxia watched helplessly. In another location, Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi arrived at Longdan Village. Finding the scene of conflict cleared of bodies, they quickly located a Department Six mark left by Yuan Jinxia, which indicated she had gone south, and immediately followed.

At the inn, seeing Lu Yi unresponsive, Yuan Jinxia fetched water to clean his face. As she wiped his chest, she noticed a blade wound beneath his robe. Just as she unfastened his clothes to examine it, Lu Yi's eyes snapped open and he clasped her hand. Flustered, Yuan Jinxia explained she was merely trying to prevent him from catching a cold. Lu Yi, without a word, told her to continue.

Unnerved by his intense gaze, she averted her eyes and awkwardly finished cleaning the wound. At that moment, Mao Haifeng and his men, along with the captured Beggar Uncle, arrived at the inn. Yuan Jinxia alerted Lu Yi, who asked for his clothes to prepare for a confrontation. Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi managed to drug the guards and rescue Beggar Uncle, but their escape was cut short.

Mao Haifeng had spotted a jade pendant Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia had used as collateral with the inn owner and recognized it, confirming their presence. Confronted by Mao, Yuan Jinxia offered her pistol as a peace offering. Mao Haifeng accepted it but then demanded the weapon's blueprint. She adamantly refused, reminding him that giving a blueprint to a pirate would be aiding a villain. Just then, Lu Yi's poison flared up violently.

Beggar Uncle examined him and identified the poison as "extracted Blue Hairpin," a refined version that, instead of causing madness, infinitely magnified the victim's emotions and desires until they lost themselves and died. Witnessing Lu Yi's agony, Mao Haifeng offered a deal: his men possessed a secret skill that could prevent Lu Yi's death, though not cure him completely, in exchange for the pistol blueprint.

Seeing no other choice, Yuan Jinxia agreed, on the condition that Mao first transport them to the Zhenjiang boundary, where she would then provide half of the blueprint. Elsewhere, upon learning of Lu Yi's formidable skills, Yan Shifan expressed a surprising reluctance to kill him, finding him an interesting individual. He instructed Di Lanye to follow Lu Yi discreetly and to arrange a meeting between Mao Haifeng and himself.

Meanwhile, Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi, following the trail, were ambushed in a forest by Dong Qisheng and his surviving men, who sought revenge for the destruction of their fort. To save a captured Yang Yue, Shangguan Xi surrendered. Dong Qisheng tied them both to posts and cruelly mocked Shangguan Xi. To protect her from harm, Yang Yue agreed to Dong's humiliating demand to wear a dog leash and crawl.

Despite his compliance, Dong Qisheng revealed his intent to assault Shangguan Xi anyway. Fueled by fury, the injured Yang Yue rose, wrapped the leash around Dong's neck, and stabbed him. As he ferociously shielded Shangguan Xi, Xie Xiao appeared and fought off Dong's remaining men, after which Yang Yue collapsed from his wounds.

After the ordeal, Xie Xiao expressed his frustration to Shangguan Xi, asking why she hadn't sought his help, lamenting that the encounter with Dong Qisheng could have been avoided. He told her to care for the recovering Yang Yue while he went alone to find Yuan Jinxia. Shangguan Xi protested, but Xie Xiao callously stated that while Yuan Jinxia might mean nothing to her, she was the most important person to him.

Yang Yue, now awake, interjected, defending Shangguan Xi by reminding Xie Xiao of her tireless efforts and the indignities she had suffered on his behalf. Yang Yue assured Xie Xiao that Yuan Jinxia was safe for the moment since she was leaving marks, and urged him to recover so they could all continue the search together.

Later, Shangguan Xi expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Yang Yue, who reflected on having killed for the first time, hoping it would be his last. True to their agreement, Mao Haifeng brought Yuan Jinxia, Lu Yi, and Beggar Uncle to the boundary of Zhenjiang and demanded the blueprint. Jinxia feigned inability to draw while tied up. Once untied and given materials, she claimed the pistol's design was too complex to replicate without help. While she stalled, Lu Yi, having temporarily recovered from the poison's effects, began secretly working with Beggar Uncle to free themselves from their bonds.

Episode 21 Recap

While Yuan Jinxia stalled Mao Haifeng by pretending to draw the pistol schematic, Lu Yi and Mr. Beggar secretly untied their ropes. After Lu Yi gave her a signal, Jinxia swiftly snatched her pistol back from Mao. Mr. Beggar then held off Mao's men, creating an opening for Lu Yi and Jinxia to escape. As they fled, Yuan Jinxia hid a weakened Lu Yi in a pile of straw and lured the pursuing Japanese pirates away.

Meanwhile, Mr. Beggar was also being chased. When Jinxia returned, she and Lu Yi were cornered at a cliff edge by Mao Haifeng. Mao continued to demand the pistol drawing, unaware that Lu Yi, who understood Japanese, had heard his plan to kill them. Lu Yi had been feigning the severity of his poisoning. When Mao, realizing his plot was exposed, offered to procure an antidote as a last-ditch bargain, Lu Yi ignored him.

Instead, he embraced Jinxia and leaped from the cliff. They managed to grab onto a vine, but it began to give way under their combined weight. Jinxia offered to let go to save him, but Lu Yi told her to trust him, released his grip, and skillfully landed them on a narrow ledge below. From the clifftop, Xie Xiao, Shangguan Xi, and Yang Yue witnessed the jump and intervened, driving Mao Haifeng and his men away.

Seeing Lu Yi and Jinxia were safe on the ledge, they decided to find a way to the bottom of the cliff. Elsewhere, Mr. Beggar easily defeated his pursuers with his superior martial arts. After reuniting with Lu Yi and Jinxia, Mr. Beggar noticed Lu Yi had used his internal force and sternly warned him that doing so again could be fatal.

When Jinxia pressed to find the skilled doctor he had mentioned, Mr. Beggar grew hesitant, revealing the doctor had a strict rule: she refused to treat officials. Jinxia suggested they hide Lu Yi's identity, but Lu Yi was against deceiving the doctor. However, seeing Lu Yi's condition worsen, Jinxia pleaded with Mr. Beggar, who reluctantly agreed to their plan.

Mr. Beggar rowed them towards the doctor's secluded home, explaining he owed the doctor, Lin Ling, a debt from their youth and would not be meeting her. During the journey, Lu Yi coughed up dark blood, which attracted numerous venomous snakes to their boat, terrifying Jinxia. Meanwhile, Mao Haifeng met with Yan Shifan, complaining about how Lu Yi and Jinxia had ruined his plans and how Jinxia had shot him.

Yan Shifan was amused that a mere constable could injure Mao. After reaching the shore, Mr. Beggar gave Lu Yi and Jinxia directions to Lin Ling's home, "Maple Col," through a dangerous forest, along with a protective powder made of lime and realgar. Jinxia applied it to her own face before playfully smearing some on Lu Yi's, a moment of intimacy that was interrupted by Mr. Beggar jokingly accusing her of taking advantage of his "grandson."

Lu Yi watched her, amused. Before leaving, Mr. Beggar warned them to be discreet, as the doctor disliked talkative people. During his meeting with Mao Haifeng, Yan Shifan instructed Di Lanye to serve Mao wine. When Mao's hand lingered inappropriately near her, Yan Shifan coldly warned that he disliked others touching his "possessions" but enjoyed giving them away. Mao laughed it off, and they discussed business, noting that the new Censor-in-chief, a man loyal to Yan, would facilitate their plans.

Privately, Yan Shifan dismissed Mao's claim that Lu Yi was fatally poisoned. Lu Yi and Jinxia entered a beautiful red-leaf forest teeming with snakes. Jinxia, who has a lifelong phobia, hid behind Lu Yi, who teased her about her fear. When a snake lunged, Lu Yi shielded her; when another attacked, Jinxia bravely shot it with her pistol. They soon spotted a log cabin and, assuming it was Lin Ling's, Jinxia again insisted on hiding Lu Yi's official token.

Inside the herb-filled cabin, they met the composed Dr. Lin Ling. Jinxia begged her to save Lu Yi. When questioned, Jinxia claimed to be Lu Yi's maid and spun a tearful, elaborate tale of forbidden love and elopement. Lu Yi played along, embracing her and apologizing for his "wife's" forwardness, which stirred a strange feeling in Jinxia.

However, Lin Ling had already deduced they were officials, recognizing Jinxia's government-issued pistol and that Lu Yi had taken Violet Antidote, a substance unavailable to the public. She reiterated her refusal to treat officials. Furious, Jinxia threatened to kill Lin Ling, but the doctor, unfazed, offered to save Lu Yi in a "life for a life" exchange. Without hesitation, Jinxia put her pistol to her own head.

She tearfully said goodbye to Lu Yi, asking him to care for her mother, master, and Yang Yue, and to leave offerings for her at the temple. As she pulled the trigger, Lu Yi used his remaining strength to save her. Witnessing her selfless act, Lin Ling finally agreed to treat him. Later, Lin Ling revealed she had only suppressed the poison in Lu Yi's body and had no intention of fully curing him.

Jinxia was enraged, but Lu Yi remained calm, stating he did not believe he was fated to die. The next morning, Jinxia cooked a meal for Lin Ling to win her over. Despite the imperfect food and Jinxia's disheveled appearance, Lin Ling was amused by her earnestness. Jinxia then checked on Lu Yi and found he had a high fever. In his sleep, he clutched her hand tightly, refusing to let go. Moved by his vulnerability, Jinxia strengthened her resolve to convince Lin Ling to save him.

Episode 22 Recap

Lu Yi slept restlessly while Yuan Jinxia sought to please Doctor Lin. Spotting Doctor Lin about to leave to gather herbs, Yuan Jinxia quickly slung a bamboo basket over her back and followed. Recalling Mr. Beggar's advice that Doctor Lin disliked talkative people, Yuan Jinxia remained quiet. When Doctor Lin began harvesting, Yuan Jinxia eagerly took the sickle to help, only for several snakes to suddenly appear, startling her.

Doctor Lin calmly scattered some medicinal powder on the ground, causing the snakes to retreat and revealing that she raised the venomous creatures in the forest. Yuan Jinxia was deeply curious about Doctor Lin and why she chose such a reclusive life in Maple Col. Later, Doctor Lin needed water, and Yuan Jinxia promptly volunteered to fetch it from the spring. However, despite several attempts, Doctor Lin repeatedly rejected the water.

Yuan Jinxia calmed herself and used her tracking expertise to locate the specific gushing spring water Doctor Lin desired. Meanwhile, Yang Yue, Shangguan Xi, and Xie Xiao, following the secret signs Yuan Jinxia had left, arrived at the outskirts of Maple Col on a bamboo raft. Upon Yuan Jinxia's return with the correct water, Doctor Lin finally approved, prompting Yuan Jinxia to fetch even more.

Watching Yuan Jinxia's persistent demeanor, Doctor Lin mused that her resolve reminded her of someone familiar. Elsewhere, Yan Shifan prepared for his departure back to the capital, still refusing to take Di Lanye with him, leaving her deeply disappointed. Back at the wooden house, Yuan Jinxia grew increasingly worried as Lu Yi's condition worsened. Doctor Lin instructed Yuan Jinxia to gather some snakes from the forest, explaining they were necessary to save Lu Yi.

Though still afraid, Yuan Jinxia bravely set out to catch them. After Yuan Jinxia left, Doctor Lin unbuttoned Lu Yi's garments and discovered a confidential letter on his chest. The flying fish patterns on it revealed his identity as an Embroidered Uniform Guard. Meanwhile, Yang Yue, Shangguan Xi, and Xie Xiao located Mr. Beggar. They expressed their desire to enter the dangerous Maple Col forest to find Yuan Jinxia, but Mr. Beggar vehemently refused.

However, Xie Xiao and Yang Yue, unable to quell their worries, insisted, eventually carrying Mr. Beggar into the forest with them. Back in the house, Doctor Lin found Lu Yi's poison to be more potent than expected. She used a snake caught by Yuan Jinxia to extract some poison from Lu Yi's wound, but this was insufficient to cure him.

Doctor Lin explained that while the poison normally required time to be fully resolved, Lu Yi was in critical condition and could not wait. She then proposed a perilous method: using a detoxifying serum. This serum required one hundred poisons to be introduced into the blood of a living person, using the poisons as medicine and that person's blood as an inducer.

The serum would then be extracted and administered to Lu Yi for three consecutive days, but the person acting as the inducer faced a high risk of death. Doctor Lin produced a small krait, revealing it to be the most crucial of the hundred poisons. To become the inducer, one had to be bitten by it. The venom would cause spreading paralysis over several days, eventually leading to difficulty breathing and moving. Doctor Lin could not guarantee the inducer's survival.

Yuan Jinxia hesitated, thinking of her quest to find her family, her mother in the capital, and her future. She confessed to Doctor Lin that her earlier bravery with the gun was a bluff, as she was in control then, but was genuinely startled when Lu Yi had rushed to protect her. Realizing she had been deceived, Doctor Lin grew angry, declaring she would save Lu Yi but not necessarily Yuan Jinxia. Yuan Jinxia contemplated.

Lu Yi could be cold and hateful, yet he was also warm and had saved her life countless times. Reasoning that he would surely die without the serum and believing Doctor Lin would try her best to save her too, Yuan Jinxia made her decision. As if facing death, she bravely extended her arm and allowed the krait to bite her. Meanwhile, Mr. Beggar led the others deeper into the forest.

Frustrated by the snakes, Xie Xiao impulsively set the forest on fire. As flames spread, Mr. Beggar frantically urged the others to extinguish the blaze. Hearing the commotion, Doctor Lin rushed to the scene. After the fire was put out, numerous snakes approached the group, causing Mr. Beggar to flee in terror. Doctor Lin arrived, expressing her displeasure at their having nearly destroyed her cherished forest.

Mr. Beggar, hiding behind a tree, was soon discovered by the doctor, whom he addressed as Ling. He nervously explained he was forced to bring them. Lin Ling, her eyes welling with tears, told them to follow her. Guided by Lin Ling, the group found Yuan Jinxia. Xie Xiao, relieved but disrespectful of Lin Ling, insisted on taking everyone back to Yangzhou for treatment. Lin Ling's expression darkened, prompting Shangguan Xi to intercede.

Lin Ling noted Lu Yi's poison was strange, wondering what "crazy person" could have made it. Yuan Jinxia awkwardly confessed it was Mr. Beggar. Enraged, Lin Ling grabbed Mr. Beggar by the ear and dragged him into the house. Xie Xiao continued to pester Yuan Jinxia, who, feeling unwell from the venom, grew impatient and went inside. Yang Yue held Xie Xiao back from following.

Inside, it was revealed that Mr. Beggar and Lin Ling were fellow disciples; he learned to make poisons, and she to detoxify them. They once bet that if he could create a poison she couldn't cure, she would grant him one wish, leading to his creation of the potent "Blue Hairpin poison." Lin Ling explained the only way to save Lu Yi was with a serum using Yuan Jinxia as the inducer.

Mr. Beggar was shocked at her cruelty, but Lin Ling retorted by reminding him their family had been killed by the Embroidered Uniform Guards, and Lu Yi was one of them. As the venom took effect, Yuan Jinxia began to feel alternately hot and cold. Doctor Lin gave her medicine to slow the poison's spread.

Then, preparing a separate remedy for Lu Yi, she added a few drops of Yuan Jinxia's blood to it and instructed her to give it to him. Yuan Jinxia helped the unconscious Lu Yi sit up, but he remained unresponsive and would not open his mouth. Mr. Beggar then suggested she feed him the medicine mouth-to-mouth.

Episode 23 Recap

Beggar instructs Yuan Jinxia to feed Lu Yi his medicine mouth-to-mouth, then quickly slips away, leaving her to grapple with the task. Hesitantly, Yuan Jinxia tries to administer the medicine, but Lu Yi remains unresponsive. Seeing him in obvious pain, she resolves herself, taking the medicine into her mouth and carefully feeding it to him. She continues until Lu Yi suddenly bites her lip. Though wounded, Yuan Jinxia is relieved that Lu Yi has finally taken the medicine.

From outside, Lin Ling observes the scene, choosing not to enter. She worries about Jinxia’s rapidly worsening condition, noting that the snake poison is spreading unusually fast and fearing that even if Lu Yi is saved, it will be too late to cure her. The poison takes its toll on Jinxia, causing her hand to tremble uncontrollably as she privately fears for her life. Yuan Jinxia tries to hide her snake-bitten hand as Shangguan Xi arrives with snacks.

She dismisses her paleness as a cold and invents a story about biting her own lip because she missed eating meat. Shangguan Xi mentions that Yang Yue is preparing soup and Xie Xiao is making medicine for her. Shangguan Xi then asks if Jinxia and Yang Yue have considered being more than friends, but Jinxia vehemently rejects the idea, stating they are better as buddies. After Shangguan Xi departs, Jinxia steels herself, determined to hold on until Lu Yi recovers.

When Lu Yi regains consciousness, he finds Jinxia asleep by his bedside. Waking to his recovery, she is overjoyed, though Beggar notes her face is ashen. Lu Yi asks about her injured lip, and Jinxia quickly fabricates a story about tripping over a stone. Beggar, aware of the truth, interjects with a cryptic comment that it's all Lu Yi's fault, nearly revealing the secret. Alarmed, Jinxia quickly cuts him off to maintain her cover.

Lin Ling examines Lu Yi, confirming that his pulses are normalizing and his life is no longer in danger. Delighted, Yuan Jinxia insists that Beggar rest while she personally cares for Lu Yi, an act Lu Yi finds both touching and unusual. Meanwhile, in the capital, Yan Shifan returns and questions Yan Feng about recent developments. He learns that the Emperor appointed Wu Shouxu as the Director-general of the Southeast, a move Yan Shifan views as an affront.

Yan Feng also informs him that the craftsman tasked with framing the "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" painting reported that there was "something wrong" with it. Yan Shifan dismisses the matter for the time being. Back at the cottage, Yang Yue prepares snacks for Shangguan Xi, prompting Jinxia to playfully accuse him of neglecting her.

Seeing her pale complexion, Yang Yue explains he has made her a special porridge to nourish her blood and improve her Qi, touching her deeply. After he leaves, Jinxia suddenly coughs up a mouthful of blood. She begs Lin Ling, who rushes to her side, to keep her condition a secret, but Lin Ling grimly warns that the poison has become far more complex.

Lin Ling insists Yuan Jinxia change her blood-stained clothes, offering her a beautiful dress she has kept for a long time. Jinxia is deeply moved by the kindness, affectionately calling her "Aunt Lin." Lin Ling also provides eggs for Jinxia to wash her hair with, emphasizing the importance of hair care for a girl. As Lin Ling helps comb her hair, she is struck by Jinxia’s strong resemblance to an old friend.

Jinxia then confronts Lin Ling about her grave warning. Lin Ling explains that unlike Lu Yi's poison, the snake venom in Jinxia's body will cause excruciating, bone-penetrating pain. She reveals that the poison has spread faster than expected and she fears Jinxia "won't live beyond three days," though she vows to do everything in her power to save her. Despite the devastating news, Jinxia bravely feigns composure.

After she leaves, Lin Ling reflects on Jinxia's likable nature, resolving to fight for her life even with slim hope. Feeling the weight of her impending death, Jinxia is heartbroken, realizing she has so many unfinished tasks and chastising herself for her impulsive sacrifice. She adds a few drops of her own blood to Lu Yi's medicine before bringing it to him.

Lu Yi, seeing her in the unfamiliar dress, remarks that she looks "more girly" but he is "not used to it." Jinxia then asks if he would be sad if she were no longer with him. Confused, Lu Yi questions if she is hiding something, which she denies. As she turns to leave, he calls her back, admitting that perhaps he would indeed be sad.

The strange conversation, combined with her injury and pale appearance, leaves Lu Yi with an ominous feeling that something is being hidden from him. Later, Xie Xiao finds Yuan Jinxia hunched over in pain. She dismisses his concern, claiming it was just a stomachache. She asks him about the afterlife, expressing her own wish to be reincarnated into a wealthy family with both parents. Xie Xiao suggests she could become a wealthy man's wife in this life by marrying him.

Touched, Jinxia tells him she is happy to have him as a friend before asking to be left alone. Once he leaves, she breaks down in tears, fearing there may not be a next life. Elsewhere, Beggar voices his concern to Lin Ling about Jinxia's deteriorating health. Lin Ling explains that the poison is spreading faster than anticipated and has begun to reach Jinxia's vital organs.

She fears that by the time Lu Yi is fully detoxified, it will be too late to save Jinxia from fatal organ failure. Desperate, Beggar offers to help her search through their master's old medical books for a solution. Yuan Jinxia pens farewell letters to her friends. In the letter, she reveals she is dying and won't live past the next day, apologizing for leaving without a direct farewell.

She asks Yang Yue to pass on her regrets to their master and instructs her friends to retrieve money she buried at home for her mother. She specifically asks Lu Yi to apply for compensation for her "death in the line of duty" so her mother can live comfortably. She leaves his badge and sword outside the door.

Her friends discover the letters and are in disbelief until Beggar reveals the full truth: Jinxia willingly subjected herself to snake poison to act as a living antidote for Lu Yi. Hidden nearby, Lu Yi overhears this shocking revelation as he reads the letter she left for him. Enraged, Xie Xiao grabs Beggar, accusing him of murder, but Shangguan Xi intervenes, urging them to split up and search for Jinxia.

Meanwhile, Jinxia wanders aimlessly, lamenting that as an orphan, she has no place to go. As Lu Yi frantically searches for her, she finds a dilapidated hut, reflecting on the grimness of waiting for death alone in such a desolate place.

Episode 24 Recap

Yuan Jinxia found herself in a dilapidated room, feeling a profound chill as the poison in her system began to take hold. She drifted into unconsciousness, experiencing a vivid dream. First, a gentle voice sang a lullaby, then the scene shifted, and a young Yuan Jinxia was crying on a bustling street, desperately searching for her mother. Lu Yi soon discovered Yuan Jinxia in the small hut. Believing her end was near, she was surprised yet saddened to see him.

Mustering her last bit of strength, Yuan Jinxia begged Lu Yi to fulfill the request she had made in her letter. Lu Yi, however, adamantly refused, declaring he would not allow her to die so irresponsibly. Yuan Jinxia murmured that if she truly didn't survive, he should not feel guilty, as she had no regrets. Lu Yi then removed his wrist strap, his mother's cherished keepsake, and placed it on Yuan Jinxia's wrist.

He explained that it was a memento he treasured and that she could not fail the hope he was placing in her. As Yuan Jinxia stared at him, Lu Yi firmly declared that giving her the wrist strap was his command for her not to die. Lu Yi carried Yuan Jinxia back to Lin Ling's wooden cabin, where Xie Xiao, Yang Yue, and Shangguan Xi immediately gathered.

Seeing Yuan Jinxia's fading strength, they were overcome with emotion as she coughed up blood. Lin Ling, after checking her pulse, went to prepare medicine, vowing to do everything in her power to save her. She then spoke to Lu Yi privately, explaining that Yuan Jinxia’s condition was dire, and only a miracle could bring her back. Lin Ling revealed the only remaining hope: an ancient prescription to fight poison with poison, using the essence of seven extremely deadly plants.

She admitted she had never used it before and was uncertain if Yuan Jinxia could withstand it, but they had to take the gamble. Once the medicine was ready, Lu Yi administered it to Yuan Jinxia. After drinking the potion, she began to tremble violently. Lin Ling explained that her survival now depended entirely on her fate. While Xie Xiao and the others desperately sought more solutions from Lin Ling, Lu Yi watched Yuan Jinxia's agony with despair.

He had never believed in gods or Buddhas, but in that moment, he prayed for their intervention to save her. Lu Yi then leaned down and gently kissed Yuan Jinxia's forehead. Shortly after, her fingers twitched. Outside, Xie Xiao, overwhelmed with grief, pounded a tree before collapsing to the ground in heartbroken sobs. Yang Yue remained quiet, his silent suffering no less profound.

Shangguan Xi sat beside Yang Yue, offering comfort and a handkerchief, reminding him that as long as Yuan Jinxia still had a faint breath, there was hope. Meanwhile, at the palace, the Emperor, feeling unwell, collapsed after consuming an elixir. Upon hearing the news, Lu Ting immediately ordered elite Embroidered Uniform Guards to the palace to protect His Majesty. Everyone kept vigil over Yuan Jinxia throughout the night.

Finally, Lin Ling announced that her life was saved, bringing immense relief to all. Xie Xiao and Yang Yue rushed to her side, expressing their joy. Lu Yi, though standing quietly to the side, watched with clear delight. When Yuan Jinxia woke and loudly declared her desire for meat, his affection was evident. Shangguan Xi, with great sensitivity, suggested to Xie Xiao and Yang Yue that they should leave, allowing Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia some private time.

Yuan Jinxia held up her wrist to show Lu Yi the strap, remarking that since he commanded her to live to guard it, she truly didn't die. Lu Yi, after telling her that her salary would be doubled, left the room. Yuan Jinxia felt a pang of disappointment at his seemingly cold departure. However, looking at the wrist strap and recalling Lu Yi's intense care for it, her heart swelled with happiness. Meanwhile, the awakened Emperor summoned his ministers.

During the discussion of the elixir incident, the Emperor confined Mr. Xu, who had recommended the alchemist, to his mansion. The Emperor then asked Lu Ting to stay behind, inquiring about his views on the matter and entrusting him with the investigation. Xie Xiao was furious with Lu Yi, blaming him for Yuan Jinxia's near-death experience and threatening to beat him.

He declared his intention to take Yuan Jinxia away once she recovered, asserting that if Lu Yi couldn't protect her, he would. Elsewhere, the Chief, who had sent men to track Lu Yi, was surprised to learn that the Blue Hairpin poison in him had been neutralized, turning his attention to Lin Ling's apparent ability to cure it. Yuan Jinxia was finally well enough to get out of bed. At the dining table, Xie Xiao insisted she sit beside him.

However, Lu Yi intervened, pulling Yuan Jinxia behind him to sit by his side. Caught in the middle, Yuan Jinxia found her own seat, only for Lu Yi and Xie Xiao to sit on either side of her. Yang Yue, having noticed Lin Ling drinking Tieguanyin tea, prepared moistened pancakes, a Fujian delicacy, hoping to give her a taste of home. Shangguan Xi commended his thoughtfulness. Lin Ling then announced that this meal was a farewell.

Upon hearing that Yang Yue's father was Yang Chengwan, a head constable in Department Six, Lin Ling and the Beggar were startled, though Lin Ling quickly claimed she had mistaken him for an old friend with a similar name. During the meal, Xie Xiao sarcastically commented on Lu Yi serving Yuan Jinxia and challenged him to a fight. Lu Yi calmly conceded, stating that honor was a useless trap. Shangguan Xi then asked what was truly most important to him.

As memories of his time with Yuan Jinxia flashed through his mind, Lu Yi declared that affection held the utmost importance. Xie Xiao then openly professed his love for Yuan Jinxia again, causing Shangguan Xi to lose her appetite and quietly leave. Seeing Xie Xiao's confusion, Lin Ling sighed at his naivety. Later, Shangguan Xi sparred with Yang Yue to vent her frustration.

She confided that she had joined the Wu'an Sect at a young age and, out of gratitude to Master Xie, had long regarded Xie Xiao as her future husband. Yang Yue's heart ached for her, noting she always prioritized Xie Xiao's feelings over her own. Shangguan Xi confessed she could never act like other women, fearing that if she were self-willed, Xie Xiao would grow tired of her. She felt she lacked the confidence of those loved unconditionally from birth. Yang Yue gently reassured Shangguan Xi that, in his eyes, she was far better than she believed.

Episode 25 Recap

As their tense meal concludes, the group's temporary peace is shattered. In the nearby woods, Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue are ambushed by a group of assailants. Simultaneously, the wooden house where Lu Yi, Yuan Jinxia, and Xie Xiao are staying is stormed by more attackers. The masked leader of the assailants gives a chilling order: kill everyone except for the skilled female doctor, Lin Ling.

Inside the house, the Beggar Clan Leader, blaming himself for endangering Lin Ling, tries to escort her to safety. However, she adamantly refuses to leave without her crucial medical books. As the fight intensifies, Lu Yi urges Yuan Jinxia to flee while he and Xie Xiao hold off their enemies, but Xie Xiao insists on protecting her personally. Overwhelmed by the chaos, Jinxia escapes with Xie Xiao.

Meanwhile, during their own desperate flight through the forest, Shangguan Xi is relentlessly pursued to the edge of a cliff and falls. Without a moment's hesitation, Yang Yue leaps after her. With the others gone, Lu Yi single-handedly confronts the masked leader. Nearby, Jinxia, protected by Xie Xiao, urges him to go back and help Lu Yi.

Using her handgun to dispatch their immediate pursuers, Jinxia and Xie Xiao press on into the forest, only to be cornered again by the masked leader and his men. In a miraculous turn of events, a swarm of snakes emerges, frightening the attackers into a retreat. Lin Ling, who has rejoined them, calmly assures a startled Jinxia that the snakes are harmless. With the immediate threat gone, the group realizes Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi are missing.

They follow signs of a struggle to the cliff's edge, concluding the pair must have fallen. Lu Yi decides they must return to Yangzhou to dispatch an official search party. He and Jinxia persuade the Beggar Clan Leader and Lin Ling to accompany them, arguing that Maple Col is no longer safe and Jinxia still requires Lin Ling's care for her lingering illness.

At the bottom of the cliff, Yang Yue awakens to find himself tangled in a tree, with Shangguan Xi lying unconscious on the ground below. Despite an injured arm, he carefully makes his way down to her. He is relieved to find her physically unharmed, but she is trapped in a deep coma, unresponsive to his calls.

Fearing the worst, he confirms she is still breathing and, despite his own injuries and a rising fever, painstakingly gathers wood to build a fire for warmth. The heat gradually rouses Shangguan Xi. Overjoyed, Yang Yue becomes agitated, confessing his terror at the thought of failing to protect her, before his fever overwhelms him and he collapses.

Upon returning to Yangzhou, the group finds a letter from Yang Chengwan, Jinxia's foster father, stating he has gone to visit old friends and telling them to wait at the post house. Worried for his friends, Xie Xiao immediately sends members of the Wu'an Sect to search for Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue. Back at the cliff, an exhausted Shangguan Xi drags the unconscious Yang Yue, reflecting on his selfless bravery.

She is immensely relieved when the Wu'an Sect search party finally finds them. In Yangzhou, Jinxia remains deeply worried about her missing friends. While on the street with Xie Xiao, she spots the masked leader, whom she now knows as Mao Haifeng, in the company of Di Lanye. Jinxia quickly pulls Xie Xiao into hiding to avoid being seen. While Xie Xiao is eager to give chase, Jinxia insists they report their discovery to Lu Yi first.

Xie Xiao protests, arguing that in his territory of Yangzhou, they shouldn't have to defer to Lu Yi for everything. At the same time, Lu Yi receives a letter from his father, Lu Ting, instructing him to investigate a case involving tainted imperial elixir at the Danqing Taoist Temple. He orders his guards to fetch Jinxia for their immediate departure, only to learn she has gone out with Xie Xiao.

As Jinxia rushes to inform Lu Yi, Xie Xiao receives a signal from his men that Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi have been found. Prioritizing her friends' safety, Jinxia heads to the Wu'an Sect with Xie Xiao. Learning of their change in destination, an impatient Lu Yi decides he can wait no longer and orders his men to prepare for the journey to the Danqing Taoist Temple.

At the Wu'an Sect, Jinxia tends to the recovering Yang Yue, teasing him about his ordeal with Shangguan Xi. Yang Yue, concerned for Shangguan Xi's reputation, quickly tells her not to speak so carelessly. Lu Yi arrives at the Danqing Taoist Temple to find it in an uproar, with angry villagers accusing Master Yuanming and his disciples of deception. Lu Yi's guards quickly disperse the crowd.

A Taoist named Lan Qingxuan recognizes Lu Yi as the official sent to escort Master Yuanming to the capital and enthusiastically vouches for Lu Yi's integrity, confident he will ensure the master's safety. Master Yuanming humbly requests a delay to handle his affairs, and Lu Yi grants him one day.

As Lan Qingxuan shows Lu Yi to his room, he expresses surprise that Lu Yi survived such a potent poison, guessing Yuan Jinxia must have suffered greatly to save him, a comment that visibly deepens Lu Yi's contemplative mood. Lan Qingxuan's young apprentice, Xiao Xin, excitedly greets them and immediately asks for Jinxia. Just then, a guard reports that Yuan Jinxia has arrived and is being held at the gate.

After Lu Yi brings her inside, Jinxia realizes Lan Qingxuan, whom she had considered a trickster, is a real Taoist. She relays her critical information about Mao Haifeng and Di Lanye's alliance, earning Lu Yi's praise. When Lan Qingxuan brings them fruit, a playful exchange ensues between him, Jinxia, and a defensive Xie Xiao, who had accompanied her.

Throughout the interaction, Jinxia maintains a respectful, formal demeanor toward Lu Yi, leaving him to wonder if she sees him as nothing more than her superior. Later that night, a piercing scream from Xiao Xin alerts everyone. The boy claims to have witnessed the death of his uncle, a disciple nicknamed "Fatso." However, when they rush to the room, the body has vanished.

Observing the lack of any struggle or drag marks, Jinxia hypothesizes that Fatso might not be dead after all. Taking charge, Lu Yi secretly orders a five-li blockade around the temple, confident the culprit is trapped. Faced with both the elixir case and now a mysterious disappearance, he decides to postpone his return to the capital and remain at the temple to uncover the truth.

Meanwhile, at the Wu'an Sect, the Beggar Clan Leader and Lin Ling are changing Yang Yue's bandages when Shangguan Xi arrives with a fresh change of clothes for him. Sensing the moment, the two elders tactfully depart. Left alone, Yang Yue struggles to eat with his non-dominant hand due to his injury. Seeing his difficulty, Shangguan Xi tenderly feeds him, bringing a quiet joy to his heart.

Episode 26 Recap

Following their escape from an ambush and the strange disappearance of a disciple's body, the investigation at Danqing Taoist Temple begins. The temple, once a bustling and graceful place jammed with people every day, had become completely deserted. Lan Qingxuan recounted to Lu Yi how his junior brother, Fatso, had constantly complained of headaches and weakness, which Lan Qingxuan, believing him to be lazy, had dismissed. He worriedly admitted he had felt sleepy and weak recently himself.

Fatso's closest friend, Slim-jim, was still in shock and barely conscious from the incident. Master Yuanming, who was caring for Slim-jim, reassured Lan Qingxuan, while Lu Yi promised he would do his best to uncover the truth. Lu Yi asked Yuan Jinxia to accompany him to check on Slim-jim. Xie Xiao attempted to join them, but Lan Qingxuan firmly held him back, accusing him of always causing trouble.

When they observed Slim-jim, Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi noticed a distinct fear in his eyes towards Master Yuanming, which was not the respect due a master. This raised their suspicions that Slim-jim might know something, but with Master Yuanming constantly by his side, they decided to wait, not wanting to alert anyone. Later that night, Lu Yi visited Master Yuanming and effortlessly resolved a complex chess game that Yuanming had long deemed unsolvable, earning the master's profound admiration.

Lu Yi remarked on Yuanming's unusual calm despite the crisis. Yuanming, unperturbed, stated that if the temple were to perish, it would simply be the will of the heavens, as he had long accepted life's vicissitudes. He revealed his hope for the temple's restoration lay with Lan Qingxuan. Yuanming confided that Lan Qingxuan, once a dissolute scion of a wealthy family, had squandered his inheritance after his father's death, facing banishment and homelessness.

Yuanming had taken him in during his lowest point, but Lan Qingxuan remained unable to let go of past regrets and lived with deep inner scars. As Lu Yi returned, Lan Qingxuan was waiting, offering him a grilled wild chicken he had prepared. He inquired if the Embroidered Uniform Guards suspected Master Yuanming in the imperial elixir case, asserting his unwavering belief in his master, who was like a second parent to him.

Lu Yi pointed out that the chicken constituted a bribe. Unexpectedly, Lan Qingxuan then advised Lu Yi to be wary of Xie Xiao's gaze on Yuan Jinxia, suggesting Lu Yi watch his "Miss Yuan" lest she be "stolen away," clearly implying Lu Yi's own affection. Lu Yi dismissed the concern, stating Yuan Jinxia had no one in mind. Lan Qingxuan explained he only gave such advice because he regretted missing his own chances in the past.

Understanding Lan Qingxuan's deep-seated regrets, Lu Yi subtly comforted him. Meanwhile, in Yangzhou, Xie Xiao sought assistance from Beggar Uncle and Doctor Lin. Lin Ling initially refused involvement in official affairs but was persuaded by Xie Xiao and Beggar Uncle, especially given her fondness for Yuan Jinxia. After securing their help, Xie Xiao briefly returned to his sect.

Elsewhere, Shangguan Xi, having heard Xie Xiao would be back soon, asked Yang Yue to teach her how to cook a spicy Chengdu dish, his favorite. As Yang Yue helped Shangguan Xi tie her apron, Xie Xiao burst in, misinterpreted their closeness, and quickly exited. Shangguan Xi frantically chased after him to clarify, but Xie Xiao, convinced they were in love, teased that he would tell his father. Exasperated, Shangguan Xi finally vented her frustration.

Lu Yi subtly tested Slim-jim and concluded that the disciple possessed no martial arts skills. Later, Yang Yue found Shangguan Xi withdrawn and pensive. He gently encouraged her to live more happily. Yang Yue contrasted her with Yuan Jinxia, noting how Jinxia's cheerful nature made her effective and admired. Shangguan Xi felt they were fundamentally different, as Jinxia was free while she was burdened by her sect's responsibilities.

Yang Yue then suggested she find someone else to lean on, not necessarily Xie Xiao. However, Shangguan Xi firmly asserted her destiny was to marry Xie Xiao and manage the Wu'an Sect. Hearing this, Yang Yue departed with a look of profound disappointment. Xie Xiao, Beggar Uncle, and Doctor Lin arrived at Danqing Temple. Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia had theorized that Fatso's disappearance might be linked to the problematic imperial elixir and decided to review the temple's chronicles.

As Yuan Jinxia diligently served Lu Yi tea and fruit, Xie Xiao's jealousy flared. When Yuan Jinxia ignored him, Lu Yi calmly ended his complaints by stuffing an orange into his mouth. Xie Xiao angrily confronted Yuan Jinxia, demanding to know if she had fallen for Lu Yi. She scoffed, stating Lu Yi was her superior and her feelings were none of Xie Xiao's concern.

Irritated, Yuan Jinxia declared her choices were her own and pointedly reminded Xie Xiao that his true concern should be Shangguan Xi, whom he had abandoned and left to endure gossip. Yuan Jinxia walked away, leaving Xie Xiao to finally reflect on his actions. Soon after, Shangguan Xi received a letter from Xie Xiao, which she eagerly opened, only to find it was a formal letter canceling their engagement. Heartbroken, she lamented how swiftly this day had arrived.

That night, Shangguan Xi retrieved the jar of "Daughter Red" wine, which was to be for her wedding. Questioning its purpose now that her marriage to Xie Xiao was impossible, she expressed her deep, unyielding attachment to him, admitting that despite her public image as a capable sect leader, she had only ever desired a simple life with him. Yang Yue, deeply saddened by her pain, offered to drink the entire jar of wine with her.

Back at Danqing Temple, as Lu Yi and Lan Qingxuan played chess, a sudden scream from young Xin startled everyone. They rushed to Xin's room, only to discover him lifeless. Lan Qingxuan collapsed in despair, unable to comprehend such a cruel act against a child.

Episode 27 Recap

Upon entering the room, the group discovered Xin had been tragically killed. Lan Qingxuan was overcome with grief, collapsing to his knees and crying uncontrollably, lamenting how cruel the murderer was to such a young child. Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi were equally distraught, with Jinxia comforting Lan Qingxuan as tears streamed down her own face. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue, both heavily intoxicated, continued their drunken revelry.

Yang Yue, despite claiming not to be drunk, had a face as red as a monkey's bottom. When Shangguan Xi playfully asked if he secretly loved her, Yang Yue earnestly affirmed his devotion, stating that only she existed in his mind and eyes. He swore by the God of Marriage to never leave her side, prompting Shangguan Xi to find him incredibly "cute."

When Shangguan Xi suddenly fell, Yang Yue tried to help her, and they both ended up on the ground, their eyes meeting. The following morning, Yang Yue awoke and immediately declared his intention to return to the capital and have his father officially propose marriage to Shangguan Xi.

However, Shangguan Xi dismissed his proposal, insisting that whatever they had said the previous night was merely drunken chatter and should be forgotten, as she did not want to marry someone she didn't love. Yang Yue, though, firmly stated that despite the liquor, his feelings were clear, and he always honored his vows. He reiterated his promise to never leave her, regardless of her feelings for him.

Shangguan Xi retorted that even she, a woman, didn't care about such drunken words, questioning why he, a man, was so pedantic. She pulled her hand away from his, leaving him with a resolute back as she walked away. At the Danqing Taoist Temple, Lan Qingxuan erected a grave for Xin, expressing his deep sorrow for failing to protect the boy he had wanted to care for.

He vowed to find and kill the murderer, asking for heavenly punishment if he failed. Yuan Jinxia tried to console him, suggesting Xin might now be with his parents. Wishing to be alone, Lan Qingxuan asked the others to leave. He reminisced about Xin's curiosity about the outside world, recalling promises to buy him caramelized haws and sweetened rice wafers, and Xin's dream of protecting the ancestral hall's altar lamp and the Dragon Lord.

Lan Qingxuan pledged to relight the altar lamp himself. Shortly after, Lu Yi encountered Master Yuanming and questioned him about his whereabouts during the murder. Lu Yi voiced his suspicion that Yuanming was hiding something, connecting him to both Xin's death and Fatso's earlier disappearance. Master Yuanming claimed to have been sick in his room all day. Though Lu Yi departed without further questioning, Master Yuanming understood he was now under suspicion.

A little later, Master Yuanming summoned the still grief-stricken Lan Qingxuan and asked him to fetch Lu Yi for an important discussion. After Lan Qingxuan left, Master Yuanming consumed a pill. When Lu Yi arrived, he directly accused Master Yuanming of being involved in Xin's death, reasoning that only he had the opportunity. Master Yuanming implicitly confessed, admitting that Xin had "seen something he shouldn't have."

He then dismissed Lu Yi's lack of clear evidence, confidently asserting that the Danqing Taoist Temple was his territory. When Lu Yi confronted him about poisoning the emperor's elixir, Master Yuanming denied it, challenging Lu Yi to provide proof. Lu Yi then realized he had been drugged by a colorless and odorless incense.

Master Yuanming revealed he had deliberately incapacitated Lu Yi to force him to stay at the temple for a few more days, allowing him time to complete the elixir. Master Yuanming helped the disoriented Lu Yi back to his room and administered some pills. Shortly after, Yuan Jinxia arrived and spotted a figure retreating from Lu Yi's room. Unable to pursue, she rushed to Lu Yi's side, finding him collapsed on the floor with a high fever.

Xie Xiao and Lan Qingxuan arrived, and together they moved the unconscious Lu Yi to his bed. Yuan Jinxia insisted on staying to care for him. Cen Fu agreed to guard the door and, over Xie Xiao's objections about propriety, pulled him away, acknowledging Jinxia could provide better care. Meanwhile, Master Yuanming returned to his room, relieved that no one would disrupt his lifelong efforts. When Lan Qingxuan reported Lu Yi's injury, Master Yuanming feigned surprise and concern.

At the docks, Shangguan Xi was overseeing the transfer of goods for the Wu'an Gang. Yang Yue approached, offering her a coat and a basket of specially cooked food. Shangguan Xi coldly rejected his gestures, warning him to stay away or their friendship would be jeopardized. Seeing her resolute demeanor, Yang Yue sadly placed the basket down and left. Shangguan Xi watched him go, a flicker of guilt in her eyes.

Later, Lu Yi awoke and, disoriented, seized Yuan Jinxia, not recognizing her. He nearly choked her before Cen Fu intervened. Lu Yi's memory had regressed to seven years prior, before he became an Embroidered Uniform Guard, and he addressed Cen Fu by his old name, Cen Afu. To pacify him, Cen Fu explained that Jinxia was his relative, leading Lu Yi to release her.

Jinxia watched as Lu Yi meticulously cleaned a sword, and Cen Fu explained it belonged to Ade, Lu Yi's best friend. The final test to become an Embroidered Uniform Guard required them to forsake emotions, even by killing their closest friends. Ade had tragically died from an arrow on the battlefield. Jinxia reflected on how this brutal practice was why she had always detested the Guards.

However, her time with Lu Yi had changed her perspective; she realized he was not truly heartless, and his sorrow for Ade's death proved that no human could be entirely devoid of emotion. Suddenly, Lu Yi was overcome with a severe headache. Yuan Jinxia immediately had Cen Fu summon Lin Ling. After examining Lu Yi, Lin Ling stated there were no physical injuries, but his pulse suggested he was suffering from hysteria.

Though Cen Fu expressed doubt, Lu Yi calmly interjected, urging Cen Afu to trust the doctor. Lin Ling agreed to prescribe medicine to improve blood circulation, hoping it would alleviate the hysteria. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi found a letter and breakfast left by Yang Yue. In his note, he explained he had urgent matters and was leaving to avoid bothering her further, urging her to take care of herself.

Separately, Zhai Lanye reported to Yan Shifan that the skilled doctor who had removed Lu Yi's poison was named Lin Ling. Yan Shifan's interest was piqued, triggering a flashback. He recalled having bound Lin Ling, taunting her and threatening her family. She feigned compliance to be freed, only to cunningly stab his left eye with a hidden needle the moment he untied her.

Episode 28 Recap

Thirteen years prior, Lin Ling found herself bound and at the mercy of Yan Shifan. He callously informed her that she had walked into his trap, daring to claim she had seduced him. To coerce her, he threatened that her family's three generations would be executed, boasting that he was not afraid of the Pharma King Valley. Lin Ling, feigning submission, agreed to obey if he untied her.

Once she was freed, Yan Shifan knelt to admire her feet, but she seized the opportunity and stabbed his left eye. Enraged, Yan Shifan screamed for his guards to capture her, vowing revenge. In the present, Yan Shifan, still obsessed, recalls the attack. He learns that Lin Ling has finally reappeared and orders his subordinate, Yan Feng, to depart for Yangzhou immediately and bring her back alive, emphasizing she is not to be harmed.

He then fiercely clutches a terrified female servant, declaring his intent to lock Lin Ling by his side forever. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia brings a medicinal decoction to Lu Yi. Lu Yi, whose mind has regressed to that of a thirteen-year-old, mistakes her for a new maid and warns her to leave before his father finds out and has her sold. Confused, Yuan Jinxia simply urges him to drink the medicine. Lu Yi refuses, insisting he is perfectly healthy.

When Yuan Jinxia asks his age, he replies, "Thirteen," surprising her with the rapid change in his mental state. She persists, eventually using a bracelet he once gave her as leverage to make him take the medicine. Lu Yi, not recognizing her, suspects the decoction might be poisoned. To reassure him, Yuan Jinxia takes a sip herself. Seeing this, Lu Yi gulps down the rest and then childishly snatches the bracelet back, hiding it away like a precious treasure.

Yuan Jinxia watches Lu Yi practice swordsmanship, marveling at his impressive skill for a thirteen-year-old. Later, Master Yuanming comes to check on Lu Yi. When Lu Yi does not recognize him, Master Yuanming, aware of Lu Yi's condition, offers Yuan Jinxia a mind-clearing pill he created. He takes one himself to demonstrate its harmlessness before Yuan Jinxia administers it to a reluctant Lu Yi.

Afterward, Yuan Jinxia, Gai Shu, Xie Xiao, and Lin Ling discuss the assassination attempt on Lu Yi. Since guards confirmed no one entered or exited the Danqing Taoist Temple during the attack, they conclude the assassin is still inside. Suspecting Master Yuanming, Lan Qingxuan, and Slim-jim, Gai Shu assigns Yuan Jinxia to investigate Lan Qingxuan and Xie Xiao to trail Slim-jim, while he and Lin Ling decide to handle the cunning Master Yuanming.

Lin Ling politely invites Master Yuanming to a side room for tea, creating a diversion so Gai Shu can search his quarters. At the docks, Shangguan Xi is nearly crushed by falling cargo when Yang Yue suddenly appears and shields her from harm. He explains that he felt uneasy after leaving and returned to check on her. Shangguan Xi sternly demands to know why he came back.

Yang Yue confesses he can't let her go and feels bound by the oath he made to stay by her side. Shangguan Xi dismisses the oath as drunken words meant only to comfort her. She insists she is not worth his protection and is dedicated to protecting the Wu'an Sect alone. When Yang Yue asks if her actions are for Xie Xiao, she angrily retorts that a "lowly constable" like him cannot compare to Xie Xiao.

Hurt, Yang Yue understands she pushes him away because she can't let go of Xie Xiao. He then promises he will no longer bother her but will continue to protect her silently. For days, Lan Qingxuan has remained secluded in his room, poring over scriptures copied by his late apprentice, Xin. When Yuan Jinxia visits, she finds him heartbroken.

Lan Qingxuan explains that Xin was his only apprentice, a boy he took in after witnessing his grief over his parents' deaths, as he deeply empathized with the feeling of being alone. He laments their short time together and vows never to take another apprentice, as the pain of loss is too great. Hearing his sorrow, Yuan Jinxia feels guilty for having suspected him, but Lan Qingxuan kindly reassures her that caution is always wise.

The investigation yields no new leads on Master Yuanming or Slim-jim. As the group puzzles over the case, Lu Yi approaches, his mental state having regressed further. He asks Yuan Jinxia why she is with "them," not recognizing anyone else. Believing he can cure Lu Yi, Xie Xiao begins banging a gong next to his ear. As Yuan Jinxia and Gai Shu try to stop him, Lu Yi suddenly tugs on Yuan Jinxia’s sleeve and calls her "Sister."

Shocked, she asks his age, and Lu Yi innocently replies that he is eight. Stunned, Gai Shu furiously chases Xie Xiao for making things worse, while Lu Yi, frightened by the commotion, hides behind Yuan Jinxia. That night, a fierce thunderstorm rages. Yuan Jinxia is startled when Lu Yi appears in her room, terrified by the thunder. He explains that his mother used to comfort him during storms and pleads to sleep in her room.

Yuan Jinxia reluctantly agrees, and Lu Yi climbs into her bed, holding her hand for comfort. As she watches him sleep, she finds his childish demeanor endearing and playfully pinches his cheek. Her thoughts wander into a brief fantasy of teasing him before she snaps out of it, reminding herself he is just a child. The next morning, Xie Xiao bursts into Yuan Jinxia's room with her favorite scallion cakes.

Yuan Jinxia hastily tries to hide Lu Yi under the blanket, but he wakes up and leans his head on her shoulder, shocking Xie Xiao. To make matters worse, Lu Yi childishly reveals that Yuan Jinxia snores, grinds her teeth, and even talked in her sleep about wanting to "eat him." Enraged, Xie Xiao lunges at Lu Yi. The commotion draws Cen Fu, who rushes in to protect his master.

Amid the chaos, Lu Yi’s gaze falls upon scattered chess pieces on the floor, and his memories suddenly flood back. His expression shifts, his childlike demeanor gone. While the others continue to argue, oblivious to the change, Lu Yi silently slips away. He finds his way into Master Yuanming's room, where he discovers a secret passage behind a painting. Inside, he is examining alchemy tools when Master Yuanming enters.

Lu Yi instantly reverts to his childlike persona, feigning interest in the colorful objects. Relieved, Master Yuanming gently leads him out. Later, Master Yuanming returns to the secret chamber and opens an even more concealed room, confidently declaring that his "immortal pellet" is nearly complete. Back in their room, Yuan Jinxia playfully scolds Lu Yi for running off. However, when he calmly questions her for "punishing your superior," she realizes he has recovered.

Lu Yi confirms he regained his memories before entering Master Yuanming's room and instructs her not to tell anyone yet. As Yuan Jinxia mutters that she misses his cuter, childlike version, he asks what she said. Changing the subject, she asks if he now remembers who poisoned him.

Episode 29 Recap

Upon recovering from his induced stupor, Lu Yi cautioned Yuan Jinxia against revealing his restored state to anyone. Jinxia, enraged by the discovery that Master Yuanming had used a colorless and odorless knockout incense on Lu Yi, impulsively declared her intent to immediately arrest him. However, Lu Yi restrained her, urging her to cooperate with his plan. Moments later, as Xie Xiao, Beggar Master, and Lin Ling arrived with medicine, Lu Yi swiftly reverted to his eight-year-old persona.

Xie Xiao tried to force the medicine down his throat, but Lu Yi spat it back in his face. Lu Yi then mischievously hid behind Jinxia, pouting and requesting her help to wipe his face, further infuriating Xie Xiao. Lan Qingxuan intervened, reminding Xie Xiao not to quarrel with a child, while Lu Yi, smirking triumphantly, leaned into Jinxia, resting his head on her shoulder.

Lin Ling, examining the crime scene, identified a corrosive poison that also served as a guiding drug for a "pill to prolong life," leading her to suspect it was related to the fabled elixir. Lan Qingxuan then mentioned that Master Yuanming had recently acquired a formula for such a pill, though its origin was unknown. After Beggar Master and Lin Ling departed, Lan Qingxuan announced he was going to play chess with Master Yuanming.

Jinxia, eager to follow, tried to convince Lu Yi to come along, but Xie Xiao playfully dragged him off to practice swordsmanship instead. During their "practice," Xie Xiao proudly boasted about his ability to balance a wooden bucket on his head with a sword. Lu Yi, feigning interest, secretly flicked a stone at the bucket, drenching Xie Xiao.

With a satisfied smirk, Lu Yi then offered to wipe Xie Xiao's wet face with his saliva, prompting a frustrated Xie Xiao to chase him around. Meanwhile, Lin Ling confided in Beggar Master, deducing that the "elixir" formula Lan Qingxuan spoke of was likely the long-lost volume of the medical book from the Pharma King Valley. Concerned about the current Emperor's pursuit of immortality, they feared Master Yuanming would misuse the incomplete formula, potentially causing widespread disaster.

Later, having grown accustomed to freely entering Lu Yi's room, Jinxia walked in on him changing. Lu Yi, seizing the opportunity, tossed his clothes at her, instructing her to help him dress. Jinxia, though grumbling internally about potential post-poisoning side effects, complied. She then subtly tested him, confirming his full recovery, which led her to muse that the "demon" had indeed returned.

Lu Yi then re-tied a hand bracelet onto Jinxia's wrist, sternly forbidding her from ever removing it without his permission. Attempting to placate him, she offered him some sweet soup she had prepared. Lu Yi, however, had other priorities, instructing her to inform Cen Fu of his recovery and have Cen Fu report his findings directly to him. He also stressed the importance of keeping a close watch on Master Yuanming.

Jinxia dutifully went to find Master Yuanming, who was engrossed in meditation. Under the cloak of night, Lu Yi, disguised in black, infiltrated Master Yuanming’s secret chamber. He inadvertently triggered a mechanism, revealing another hidden room. As he prepared to enter, a figure emerged, and the two engaged in a brief struggle before Lu Yi recognized his opponent as Beggar Master. They unmasked, sharing their mutual surprise.

Meanwhile, Master Yuanming concluded his meditation, and Jinxia, covering for her presence, feigned an interest in cultivation. Master Yuanming, pleased, began teaching her basic meditation techniques. In the secret room, Lu Yi informed Beggar Master and Lin Ling of his recovery and Master Yuanming's betrayal. Beggar Master, in turn, confirmed their suspicion that Yuanming’s formula was indeed the lost Pharma King Valley volume, which likely led to Fatso's murder.

Jinxia then burst into the secret room, complaining about her sore and numb legs from meditating all night. Lan Qingxuan and Xie Xiao followed close behind. Xie Xiao, noticing Lu Yi in his Jin Yi Wei uniform, excitedly tried to drag him off to practice swords again. Beggar Master and Jinxia, amused, quickly informed Xie Xiao of Lu Yi’s complete recovery.

Realizing he had been tricked, Xie Xiao charged at Lu Yi, but Jinxia managed to pull him out of the room before a fight could escalate. Elsewhere, Shangguan Xi received a letter from Yang Yue. She sighed, reflecting on Yang Yue's persistence and her own unrequited feelings for Xie Xiao.

In the letter, Yang Yue expressed his guilt towards Shangguan Xi and his intention to seek his father's permission to cancel their engagement, freeing them both, as he wished to propose to Jinxia. Cen Fu later reported to Lu Yi that their investigations revealed Master Yuanming was not originally a professional alchemist but a skilled pill-maker before taking over Danqing Taoist Temple.

Soon after, he began presenting "Long Life Pills" to the court, suggesting a powerful figure was manipulating events behind the scenes. Cen Fu added that Yuanming’s laboratory remained undiscovered within Danqing Taoist Temple, as disciples claimed no one was permitted to observe him while he made pills. With this information, Lu Yi ordered Cen Fu to prepare for Master Yuanming's transfer to the capital the next morning.

The following morning, Jinxia stretched upon waking and found Lu Yi standing contemplatively in the courtyard. When Lu Yi turned, he found Jinxia giggling. She praised his handsome appearance, adding that she found herself unaccustomed to his normal demeanor after his recovery, which brought a faint smile to Lu Yi’s lips. Suddenly, Lan Qingxuan rushed in, frantic, to report that Slim-jim had disappeared and his cabinet was empty, implying he might have run away.

Jinxia, however, discovered a pile of gray powder beneath a mat in Slim-jim's room, recognizing it from Lin Ling's earlier descriptions as a pill-making ingredient. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Lu Yi immediately led the group to find Master Yuanming. They found Master Yuanming in a secret chamber, attempting to silence Slim-jim, who had discovered his dark secret. Lu Yi and the others intervened, saving Slim-jim.

Master Yuanming, defiant, claimed his pills were never toxic and that he possessed the lost Pharma King Valley formula. Slim-jim, terrified but now safe, bravely revealed that Master Yuanming had killed Fatso and Xin because they uncovered his secrets. Lan Qingxuan, unable to process the truth about his revered master, stumbled back, consumed by guilt. He blamed himself for bringing Xin to Danqing Taoist Temple, believing it led to Xin's death, and hysterically began striking himself.

Overwhelmed with grief and rage, Lan Qingxuan attempted to commit suicide by ramming his head into a wall, but Lu Yi swiftly knocked him unconscious. Master Yuanming remained indifferent to the deaths, his sole obsession being eternal life. Lin Ling, however, revealed that what he sought was not a true elixir of life. Lu Yi, holding one of Yuanming’s pills, demanded to know who had provided the formula and who else had handled the pills.

Yuanming, after a moment of thought, pointed at Slim-jim, claiming he was the only other person. Slim-jim vehemently denied it, but Jinxia presented the gray powder she found in his room to Lin Ling, who identified it as poisonous Arisaema heterophyllum Blume, harmful if ingested raw. Terrified, Slim-jim collapsed and confessed: a month prior, someone had paid him a large sum of money to secretly add the powder to Master Yuanming's furnace.

Master Yuanming, still begging for his pill, watched in horror as Lu Yi crushed it before his eyes. Driven to madness, Yuanming frantically scooped up the remaining powder and swallowed it, quickly succumbing to its effects and dying from internal bleeding. Meanwhile, in the capital, Yan Shifan dispatched his guard, Yan Shiwei, and Di Lanye to retrieve Lin Ling, noting her unusual importance to him. Di Lanye, observing Yan Shifan's behavior, realized the depth of his feelings for Lin Ling.

Back at the temple, Slim-jim was taken by Jin Yi Wei to draw a portrait of the individual who paid him. However, as he sketched the outline, an arrow shot from the shadows, killing him instantly. Lu Yi, deducing the mastermind behind the conspiracy, ordered Cen Fu to deliver a letter to his father, Lu Ting, detailing the findings. He then announced his own departure for Hangzhou.

Separately, Shangguan Xi was traveling to find Xie Xiao when she sensed she was being followed. She prepared for an ambush, only to discover it was Yang Yue. Yang Yue sheepishly claimed he was on his way to find Jinxia, a claim Shangguan Xi reluctantly accepted.

Episode 30 Recap

Yang Yue desperately pleaded with Shangguan Xi not to push him away, assuring her he would not force her into anything and only wished to remain by her side to protect her. Meanwhile, Lan Qingxuan found a strange sense of peace while fishing by a river, despite the recent turmoil at Danqing Taoist Temple.

He revealed his fishing rod had no hook, explaining that he sought to feel the subtle undercurrents beneath the water's surface, a metaphor for the political situation. He admitted that Danqing Taoist Temple, though not involved in politics, was aware of court matters and suspected that the deaths of his master and Slim-jim were connected to the Yan family. Lu Yi advised him to keep such knowledge to himself and avoid getting involved.

However, Lan Qingxuan insisted on seeking justice for his temple and offered to help Lu Yi dismantle Yan Song's powerful faction. He acknowledged that while the Lu and Yan families appeared close, beneath the surface, the political waters churned with hidden currents. Lu Yi cautioned that Grand Secretary Yan still held the Emperor's favor, making his downfall incredibly difficult.

Lan Qingxuan countered that the Emperor held deep respect for Taoism, and if he could gain entry into the imperial palace, he could serve as Lu Yi's informant. With no family to worry about, he was unafraid of the risks. Lu Yi eventually agreed but stressed the importance of finding the opportune moment, given the Emperor's suspicious nature. In court, Lu Ting reported to the Emperor that Lu Yi had resolved the poisonous pills case.

He clarified that Master Yuanming's elixirs were not inherently poisonous, but his greedy apprentice had secretly altered them. With the culprit apprehended and a full confession secured, the Emperor commended both Lu Ting and his son. He ordered the immediate lifting of Xu Jing's house arrest and his return to duty. Shortly after, Grand Secretary Yan Song humbly requested permission to personally test all future imperial medicines, a gesture the Emperor deeply appreciated and granted.

Yan Song later explained to his son, Yan Shifan, that this was a strategic move to solidify their family's power. He also expressed relief that Lu Ting's report made no mention of their family. Though their plan to eliminate Xu Jing had failed, they decided to isolate him politically, aware that he would now be more vigilant.

Back at the post station, Yuan Jinxia informed Lin Ling and Mr. Beggar that she would accompany Lu Yi to Hangzhou, asking them to deliver a letter to Yang Yue. Xie Xiao immediately declared his intention to follow Yuan Jinxia wherever she went. As they parted ways, Lan Qingxuan cryptically advised Yuan Jinxia that happiness sometimes needed to be actively pursued, glancing at Lu Yi as a puzzled Jinxia walked away.

Upon arriving in Hangzhou, Lu Yi decided it would be inconvenient to investigate in their official capacities and instructed Cen Fu to procure scholar's robes for them, with Yuan Jinxia specifically requesting a male disguise. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue reached Danqing Taoist Temple, where Lan Qingxuan informed them that Lu Yi's party had departed for Hangzhou. Despite Shangguan Xi's sigh of resignation, Yang Yue cheerfully agreed to follow her. Donning her male attire, Yuan Jinxia looked strikingly handsome.

However, when Lu Yi appeared in his own robes, she was captivated by his unparalleled elegance. Ignoring Xie Xiao's attempts to get her attention, she sincerely complimented Lu Yi on his distinguished demeanor. Lu Yi suggested she stop calling him "Your Excellency" while they were in disguise, and she playfully proposed "Lu Shisan" instead. At the bustling Hangzhou market, they encountered a vendor selling paper hairpins.

Intrigued, Yuan Jinxia adorned herself with a paper bird and tried to pin a matching paper fish on Lu Yi. Recalling a "flying fish" Jinxia had once made in Yangzhou, Lu Yi accepted it. Jinxia then placated Xie Xiao with a small white rabbit hairpin and gave a butterfly one to a hesitant Cen Fu. As they walked, Yuan Jinxia teased Lu Yi about attracting female attention, to which he retorted that she was doing the same.

Just then, she spotted ruffians harassing a young woman and intervened, quickly subduing the bullies. The grateful lady, who seemed smitten with "Mr. Yuan," was then revealed to be Lu Yi's cousin, Chunyu Min. Min explained she had snuck out and asked Lu Yi to escort her home. She then invited the entire group to her family's mansion to properly thank Yuan Jinxia. At the mansion, Min's parents offered Yuan Jinxia one hundred taels of gold.

Before she could accept, Lu Yi politely declined on her behalf, claiming she never accepted monetary rewards. A pained Jinxia feigned a heartache over the lost gold. Min's parents then warmly invited the group to stay at their mansion, which Lu Yi accepted. The conversation turned to Lu Yi's marriage prospects, as he was now 22, causing Yuan Jinxia's spirits to fall as she considered the high-born lady who would one day be his wife.

Later that evening, Min brought Yuan Jinxia a bowl of soup and revealed that her mother intended to arrange a marriage between her and Lu Yi. Startled, Jinxia found the soup suddenly tasteless. Min quickly clarified that her heart already belonged to someone else, not Lu Yi. Secretly relieved, Jinxia smiled, which Min misinterpreted as a sign of affection for herself, believing their own "relationship" could blossom with a small push.

Meanwhile, on their journey back to Yangzhou, Lin Ling and Mr. Beggar encountered Yang Chengwan. Lin Ling was shocked and overjoyed to see him alive. In a private conversation, they reminisced. Lin Ling had known him in her youth as Yang Li, when he was in love with her older sister, Lin He. Lin He was later betrothed to Xia Changqing, son of Grand Secretary Xia Ran.

Yang Chengwan became an Embroidered Uniform Guard to protect her, but during the purge of the Xia family, he failed to save her. With her dying breath, Lin He entrusted him with delivering her daughter to Lin Ling, but he was apprehended and imprisoned, losing a leg in the process. The Lin family was also implicated and ruined, leading Lin Ling to a failed revenge attempt on Yan Shifan, from which Mr. Beggar saved her.

Yang Chengwan also revealed he had recently met Yang Yue and Yuan Jinxia. When Lin Ling asked about Lin He's child, he explained that his investigation revealed the girl was abducted by a human trafficker on the night of the purge and later abandoned on the road south.

Episode 31 Recap

Following Lin Ling's discovery that her sister's daughter was still alive, she resolved to find her. Yang Chengwan, having previously investigated without success, agreed to revisit the locations with her, hoping they might uncover new clues together. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao were teaching Chunyu Min to play pai gow. Lu Yi, upon his return, chided Yuan Jinxia for introducing Min to a street game, warning her not to lead the delicate girl astray.

Jinxia playfully retorted, accusing Lu Yi of hiding his beautiful cousin, perhaps fearing someone might be attracted to her. Xie Xiao added that Min's parents had repeatedly inquired about Lu Yi's marriage, suggesting they hoped for a match between the cousins. Jinxia continued to tease Lu Yi, speculating that Min might be the girl in his heart. Lu Yi challenged her, asking how she would react if he confirmed it.

Jinxia forced a smile and offered her congratulations, praising Min as a well-educated woman from a respectable family, making them a perfect match. Their exchange was interrupted by the arrival of Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi. Yang Yue, upon seeing Jinxia, expressed his relief and amusement at her unchanged playful nature. Shangguan Xi explained they had located them through the Wu'an Sect's local branch after finding the officer's tavern empty.

When Min referred to Jinxia as "Mr. Yuan," Yang Yue almost revealed her true gender, but Jinxia quickly intervened to avoid complications. Xie Xiao then pulled Shangguan Xi aside and, after confirming she had received his letter, publicly announced the cancellation of their engagement. Surprised by his bluntness, Jinxia led Shangguan Xi away for a private talk, while a displeased Yang Yue challenged Xie Xiao to a duel.

Jinxia apologized to Shangguan Xi for the awkward situation, acknowledging that her presence had prompted Xie Xiao to annul the engagement. Shangguan Xi reassured her that no apology was needed, smiling warmly and stating she was not one to harbor resentment over romance. She confessed she had already made her feelings clear to Xie Xiao and that attraction cannot be forced. She even thanked Jinxia, admitting that Xie Xiao's decision had finally awakened her from her one-sided affection.

Elsewhere, Lin Ling was packing for her journey when Beggar Uncle, concerned that her public appearance would alert Yan Shifan, insisted on accompanying her. As he stepped out to check on their carriage, Zhai Lanye and Yan Feng infiltrated the residence, subdued Lin Ling, and escaped through a window. Beggar Uncle returned just in time to see them flee but was unable to stop them. In his distress, he momentarily forgot they were with Yang Chengwan, the world's finest tracker.

Once reminded, Yang Chengwan identified the culprits' footprints—one deep and small, the other shallow and large, indicating a man and a woman—and set off with Beggar Uncle in hot pursuit. Later, Min asked Lu Yi if his earlier remark about being interested in her was serious. Lu Yi dismissed it as a disrespectful slip of the tongue, and a relieved Min then persuaded him to help get her parents' permission to learn horse riding.

Overjoyed, she embraced his arm affectionately just as Yuan Jinxia and Shangguan Xi approached, causing Min to quickly withdraw her hand in embarrassment. Nearby, Yang Yue was fiercely sparring with Xie Xiao, accusing him of hurting Shangguan Xi. When the others intervened, Xie Xiao demanded Shangguan Xi clarify their relationship to the "unreasonable" Yang Yue. To his shock, Shangguan Xi confessed that Yang Yue was right; she had indeed been in love with Xie Xiao.

She explained how she had worked tirelessly to become a worthy match for him, only to realize that love cannot be earned or forced. She admitted that even after he fled their wedding, she had held onto hope, but his letter canceling the engagement finally made her accept that her love had always been unrequited. Announcing she was tired, she left for the Wu'an Sect's branch, leaving a stunned Xie Xiao behind.

While holding Lin Ling captive, Yan Feng was eager to return to the capital, but Zhai Lanye, harboring her own motives, persuaded him to wait until dark, arguing that Yang Chengwan's tracking skills made daytime travel too risky. As they waited, Zhai Lanye contemplated Lin Ling's connection to Yan Shifan. Noticing Lin Ling's small feet, she recalled Yan Shifan's peculiar rule that any woman he desired must have feet shorter than 20.

5 cm—a standard that had led to her own repeated rejections. Concluding that Lin Ling was the reason for her failures, she became determined to prevent their reunion. Growing impatient, Zhai Lanye used a pretext to get close to Lin Ling and attempted to assassinate her with a poison needle. At that critical moment, Yang Chengwan and Beggar Uncle burst in and rescued Lin Ling.

Zhai Lanye, rather than giving chase, feigned a severe injury to avoid both pursuit and punishment. Enraged by their failure, Yan Feng wanted to drag her back to face Yan Shifan, but she remained defiant. With her location now known, Beggar Uncle urged Lin Ling to go into hiding, but she staunchly refused, determined to find her niece's daughter. The group later visited a horse ranch.

Xie Xiao teased Lu Yi and Min, calling them a good match, but Lu Yi deflected, hinting that Xie Xiao's own affection for Jinxia was not necessarily returned. Min spotted a wild stallion and insisted on riding it, but the stable manager, Yun Bo, refused out of concern for her safety. Jinxia gently persuaded Min to choose a tamer horse instead. Once they were gone, Xie Xiao challenged Lu Yi to a horse-taming contest.

Lu Yi calmly declined, stating that if Jinxia was meant to be with him, there was no need to compete. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi studied the ranch's horse-feeding techniques and asked Yang Yue for his opinion on Min. Misunderstanding, Yang Yue quickly denied any interest, prompting Shangguan Xi to clarify that Min was smitten with Yuan Jinxia. Realizing the complication of Jinxia's disguise, Yang Yue grew concerned, but Shangguan Xi assured him Jinxia had the discretion to handle it.

Ignoring Lu Yi's earlier warning, Xie Xiao foolishly attempted to tame the wild stallion himself. His efforts only startled the horse, causing it to break free and charge toward Yuan Jinxia and Min. Both Lu Yi and Xie Xiao rushed to help. Jinxia shoved Min to safety, though Min's hand was grazed in the process. While Jinxia tended to the wound, Shangguan Xi admonished Xie Xiao for his recklessness.

Watching the friends interact, Min wistfully remarked that she envied their camaraderie, as she rarely saw her own brother. Jinxia kindly reassured her that she had friends among them now, and Min’s shy smile in response seemed to finally make Lu Yi aware of the depth of her feelings for "Mr. Yuan." Back at the Yan Mansion, Yan Feng knelt to beg forgiveness for failing to capture Lin Ling.

Upon learning that Yang Chengwan had rescued her, Yan Shifan recalled the tracker's connection to the Lin family's past. He stopped Yan Feng from taking his own life and forbade any further use of force against Lin Ling, declaring his intention to travel to Yangzhou himself to win her over willingly. Meanwhile, in the capital, Lan Qingxuan met with Advisor Xu, presenting Lu Yi's letter of recommendation.

Acknowledging the political sensitivity of recommending an alchemist after the recent scandal, Lan Qingxuan expressed his willingness to wait for the right moment. When asked what set him apart, he offered a philosophy on conscience and human intention that greatly impressed Advisor Xu, who agreed to arrange his introduction to the Emperor.

Episode 32 Recap

Lu Yi instructed Yuan Jinxia to find an opportunity to reveal her true identity as a girl to Chunyu Min. Yuan Jinxia questioned the change in plans, recalling that Lu Yi had previously told her to disguise herself as a man for convenience during their investigation and to avoid interference from local officers. Lu Yi pointed out that Chunyu Min had developed a crush on her, which Yuan Jinxia found unbelievable.

She argued that even though she had saved Min's life, it didn't necessarily mean Min would like her, especially considering Min's wealthy family background. Lu Yi insisted that Min had not been able to keep her eyes off Yuan Jinxia since they met, urging her to explain the situation soon to prevent further complications. Becoming jealous, Yuan Jinxia retorted, asking how Lu Yi could have known Min was looking at her if he hadn't been watching Min himself.

Lu Yi simply told her to follow his instructions. Later, Yang Yue noticed Yuan Jinxia walking around absent-mindedly and asked if Lu Yi had bullied her. Yuan Jinxia denied it, explaining they were discussing Chunyu Min. Yang Yue then recalled Shangguan Xi had previously mentioned Min's feelings for Yuan Jinxia and asked how she intended to handle the situation. Before Yuan Jinxia could respond, Min appeared, calling out to "Mr. Yuan" and requesting a private conversation.

Yang Yue tactfully excused himself despite Yuan Jinxia's attempt to keep him there. Feeling awkward, Yuan Jinxia listened as Min, blushing, expressed her gratitude for Yuan Jinxia saving her life twice. Min added that Yuan Jinxia was "totally different from others" in her heart. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Yuan Jinxia was about to confess her identity when Min interrupted, presenting a pouch she had embroidered over several nights before quickly departing.

Yuan Jinxia saw that the pouch was embroidered with "twin lotus flowers on one stalk," confirming her fears that she was in trouble. Soon after, Yuanyang, Min's maid, worriedly asked Min about her excursion. Min explained she had gone to the stable alone because she didn't want to appear arrogant in front of "Mr. Yuan," whom she perceived as not being from a wealthy family.

Min then wondered if Yuan Jinxia would understand her feelings from the twin lotus flowers on the pouch. Yuanyang assured her that anyone would understand the clear message. Yuan Jinxia arrived at Min's room to return the embroidered pouch, stating it was "not suitable" for her. Min's spirits fell, assuming Yuan Jinxia disliked her.

Min then confessed that her family's imperial business relied on her uncle's connections in the court, and her father, fearing the loss of the Lu family's protection, wished for her to marry her cousin to strengthen their bond. However, Min admitted she felt she was "not good enough" for her cousin and would only be a concubine if she married him. She then declared that Yuan Jinxia was "the only one in my heart now."

Yuan Jinxia quickly tried to clarify that it wasn't a matter of dislike, but rather that she "didn't deserve" a respectable lady like Min. Misunderstanding, Min thought Yuan Jinxia feared her parents' disapproval and offered to beg them, even suggesting her cousin could help gain their approval. Yuan Jinxia, however, was firm: "We'll never be together. Never ever."

When a heartbroken Min pressed for a reason and even suggested they run away together, Yuan Jinxia finally revealed, "I am actually a girl." Min was stunned. In a fit of rage, she threw a cup of hot tea at Yuan Jinxia's hand. Yuan Jinxia apologized for deceiving her, acknowledging it was her fault. Min continued her outburst, throwing cosmetics at Yuan Jinxia and grabbing her collar, shouting, "Why did you fool me?"

Yuanyang, entering the room, was confused to see the scene. After venting her frustration, a heartbroken Min ordered Yuan Jinxia to "Go away!" As Yuan Jinxia left Min's room, she encountered Lu Yi, who immediately noticed the powder on her face and the scald on her hand. He gently cleaned her face and produced medicine to treat her burn. From inside the room, Min witnessed this interaction and resentfully remarked, "It turns out my cousin treats this liar so nicely."

Lu Yi asked Yuan Jinxia if she felt wronged, but she replied that she deserved it. As he finished applying the medicine, Yuan Jinxia was surprised by his gentle demeanor. Feeling overwhelmed, she told him she was fine and left to wash up. Later that night, Yuan Jinxia was still lost in thought, contemplating Lu Yi's unexpected tenderness. As the Qixi Festival approached, Chunyu Min's mother began making preparations for the upcoming Hairpin Competition.

When Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia paid a visit, Min's mother was surprised to learn that "Mr. Yuan" was actually a female constable disguised for work. Finding Yuan Jinxia to be a beautiful young lady, she insisted on having new clothes made for her as well. After Lu Yi's approval, Yuan Jinxia accepted.

Min's mother explained that the Hairpin Competition, held every three years in Hangzhou, was a significant event where the most beautiful and skillful girl would be chosen to perform a dance, becoming "the girl of all men's dreams." Lu Yi remarked that they might as well attend the competition. Regarding their investigation, he had already asked Shangguan Xi and the Wu'an Sect to gather information discreetly. At this point, Min approached Lu Yi affectionately and asked about their conversation.

She then addressed Yuan Jinxia, expressing envy that she could assist Lu Yi while Min was confined to her home. Lu Yi agreed, stating, "That's right! You are indeed different from her." Min continued reminiscing about her childhood with Lu Yi, making Yuan Jinxia feel uncomfortable enough to excuse herself. Min continued to vent her anger to Lu Yi, accusing Yuan Jinxia of humiliating her.

Lu Yi, however, took responsibility, telling Min that if she needed to blame someone, she should blame him. Meanwhile, Yuanyang intercepted Yuan Jinxia to mediate on Min's behalf. Yuanyang claimed that the incident had made Min realize that Lu Yi was the one she truly loved, and she was now even willing to become his concubine. Yuanyang warned Yuan Jinxia to maintain distance from Lu Yi to protect his reputation.

Yuan Jinxia retorted sharply, questioning the sincerity of Min's sudden change of heart and asserting that she and Lu Yi were both single, so if anything developed between them, it was "none of an outsider's business." After this confrontation, Yuan Jinxia felt a pang of sadness, recalling Lu Yi's comment about her being "different" from Min, assuming it was about their social standing. However, Lu Yi later clarified his perspective to Min.

He explained that as an Embroidered Uniform Guard, he could see through people's true intentions. He believed that if their situations were reversed, Yuan Jinxia would never resort to revenge or badmouthing. He emphasized that Yuan Jinxia was "not an ordinary girl," which was why they were different. He concluded by telling Min not to pretend to be clever in front of him.

As per Lu Yi's request, Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao were investigating the whereabouts of Chief Mao in Hangzhou. Their discussion was interrupted when they learned the Wu'an Sect's gate was surrounded. A woman and her son were accusing the sect of murder, tearfully claiming that her husband, who had hired the Wu'an Sect for protection, was killed by them, not by Japanese pirates as was reported.

Shangguan Xi stepped forward, offering to report the incident to the authorities and have a coroner examine the body. The woman became agitated, stirring the crowd with cries that they intended to desecrate her husband's grave. As the crowd grew chaotic, two men pulled the woman and son away. Shangguan Xi pursued them but was blocked by several veiled figures who declared that the Wu'an Sect would pay a price.

It was revealed these men were allied with Chief Mao and had come to Hangzhou on behalf of Yan Shifan to capture Yuan Jinxia. Fueled by Yuanyang's report, Min decided to seek revenge. She resolved to marry Lu Yi, declaring it would be her "best revenge" against Yuan Jinxia. Meanwhile, Lu Yi found the slander against the Wu'an Sect "interesting," as it suggested the Japanese pirates were active, providing a lead for their investigation.

In Yangzhou, Yan Shifan received Di Lanye. He revealed he knew she had intentionally let Lin Ling go and, while not punishing her, warned her to stay away from Lin Ling, stating his preference for "smart and obedient women" before assigning her a new task. In Hangzhou, Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue explored the city. They stumbled upon the grand Sima Residence.

A local vendor informed them that it belonged to Mr. Sima, Hangzhou's wealthiest merchant and sponsor of the Hairpin Competition. The vendor added that Mr. Sima was rumored to be ugly and always wore a mask; moreover, his two most recent wives had died unexpectedly, leading to rumors that he brought bad luck. Yang Yue then impulsively bought a hairpin for two taels of silver, much to Yuan Jinxia's dismay at the price.

Back at the Wu'an Sect, Yang Yue nervously gave Shangguan Xi the hairpin, stammering that it was a gift from Yuan Jinxia, who wanted to invite her to the competition. Shangguan Xi gracefully accepted, clearly seeing through his lie and smiling at his clumsy gesture. Later that night, Yuanyang saw Yuan Jinxia looking for food in the kitchen.

She secretly instructed a maid to give Yuan Jinxia a bottle of strong fruit wine from Lu Yi's room, hoping to get her drunk. Min, hearing of the plan, arranged for Lu Yi to witness the spectacle. Soon after, a drunken Yuan Jinxia was found swaying on the rooftop. Lu Yi arrived, climbed up, and caught her just as she was about to fall. He remarked with amusement on her improved levitation skills when drunk.

Staring intently at him, Yuan Jinxia began to compliment his appearance, calling him "so handsome" and "even more beautiful than the girls in the Xiao Xiang Pavilion." Her gaze traveled from his eyebrows to his eyes, then paused. Giggling mischievously, she leaned in and whispered, "I'll tell you a secret. I. . . kissed you once."

Episode 33 Recap

On a rooftop, Yuan Jinxia playfully shared a secret with Lu Yi, revealing she once kissed him at Maple Col to administer medicine. Lu Yi recalled her excuse about an injured lip during that time and subtly smiled. Misinterpreting his reaction, Yuan Jinxia claimed he had forgotten the incident and declared she didn't need his gratitude, as she had been left with no other choice. Lu Yi sighed and sat beside her, asking how she had felt then.

Yuan Jinxia chuckled, stating she barely remembered. Lu Yi's eyes held an unreadable glint as he proposed they try it again to recall the memory. Yuan Jinxia gasped, quickly refusing and insisting she couldn't take advantage of him again. However, Lu Yi asserted his authority as her superior, telling her she must obey. Yuan Jinxia, caught in his words, obediently leaned towards him, but at the last moment, she instinctively recoiled.

Lu Yi, without a word, pulled her into a long, cherished kiss. Min, who had arrived to amuse herself at Yuan Jinxia's expense, witnessed the deep embrace and stomped away in a fit of anger. Later, Yuan Jinxia drifted to sleep on Lu Yi's shoulder, and he gently placed a hairpin he was carrying into her hair.

Meanwhile, in the capital, Liao presented a jar of blossom wine to the Emperor, claiming his foster father, Yan Shifan, drank it nightly to maintain his health. The Emperor, upon hearing this, was displeased, musing that Yan Shifan was an "old fox" for keeping such a good wine to himself. The next morning, Yuan Jinxia awoke in her room with a pounding headache, unable to recall the events of the previous night.

She discovered a beautiful hairpin adorned with a skylark and the character "Xia" in her hair. As the Hairpin Competition was scheduled for the following day, a maid brought a newly made blue dress from Madam Chunyu, complimenting the hairpin's design. Curious about its origin, Yuan Jinxia sought out Lu Yi. He cryptically remarked that he had seen the hairpin in Cen Fu's possession.

When confronted, a surprised Cen Fu reluctantly confirmed Lu Yi’s story, explaining that when Lu Yi asked him to take the drunk Yuan Jinxia to her room, he decided to give her the hairpin he had bought earlier on a whim. He claimed to have given it to Yuan Jinxia as she was the only girl he knew in Hangzhou. Yuan Jinxia, pointing out the "Xia" character, questioned the coincidence, but Cen Fu feigned ignorance, suggesting it was simply fate.

Yuan Jinxia appeared visibly disappointed, having harbored a different hope. On the day of the Hairpin Competition, Yuan Jinxia appeared in the elegant blue dress. Her transformation stunned Lu Yi, who gazed at her with clear admiration, while Yang Yue also noted her unusual appearance. Madam Chunyu was puzzled, as she had ordered a pink dress, but still complimented Yuan Jinxia’s fair skin, saying the blue dress suited her uniquely well.

Yuan Jinxia shyly glanced at Lu Yi, who quickly averted his gaze. As they set out, Lu Yi remarked that she looked like a girl from a respectable family. Yuan Jinxia playfully suggested that perhaps one of her ancestors had indeed been an important official, to which Lu Yi jokingly told her to keep silent. Xie Xiao and Shangguan Xi soon arrived, followed by Mr. Sima Chang'an, a mysterious figure who always wore a mask, arousing Yuan Jinxia's curiosity.

Madam Chunyu distributed spider boxes to Shangguan Xi and Yuan Jinxia for the Qiqiao festival, prompting Min to scoff that their usual sword-wielding habits might lead to embarrassment. Unfazed, Yuan Jinxia declared her intent to join the competition, and Shangguan Xi readily agreed to accompany her. During the competition, Yuan Jinxia, Shangguan Xi, and Min competed in various skills.

Yuan Jinxia struggled with embroidery, accidentally pricking her hand, and also lagged in calligraphy behind Shangguan Xi and Min, drawing head-shakes from Lu Yi, Xie Xiao, and Yang Yue below the stage. However, in the final artistic display, Yuan Jinxia shone, playing the Konghou beautifully while Shangguan Xi performed an elegant sword dance to the music. Lu Yi was visibly captivated, recalling a similar performance by Yuan Jinxia in the capital.

His eyes were fixed solely on Yuan Jinxia, while Yang Yue's gaze was entirely for Shangguan Xi. Simultaneously, Zhai Lanye met with Dong Qisheng. She advised him to prioritize the mission assigned by Yan Shifan and stay away from the Wu'an Sect, despite his past grudges, before informing him that Yuan Jinxia was currently in Hangzhou. Shangguan Xi was announced as the winner of the Hairpin Competition, chosen by the votes of all the gentlemen present.

Following the results, the young women proceeded to worship the Seven Fairies and make their wishes. Yuan Jinxia glanced at Lu Yi, silently wishing to confirm if he harbored feelings for her. Opening her spider box, she found a web formed inside, a sign that her wish would soon come true. Yuan Jinxia then sat beside Lu Yi and asked if he had cast a vote and for whom.

Lu Yi deflected her question, instead praising Shangguan Xi's sword dance as "amazing." Yuan Jinxia felt a pang of disappointment. Only after the crowd had dispersed did Lu Yi lean in and quietly whisper to Yuan Jinxia that only the sound of her music had truly touched his heart. Elsewhere, a painter completed a portrait of Shangguan Xi, but Yang Yue, gazing at it, declared that the real person was far more beautiful than the painting.

Suddenly, a mysterious, debilitating mist was released from a lantern, causing widespread panic. In the ensuing chaos, Yuan Jinxia, Lu Yi, and many others were separated. The smoke was potent, weakening even skilled martial artists like Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue. Min was seen with Mr. Sima in a small room, expressing her fear. Dong Qisheng then appeared, taking control of the situation.

He announced that he sought only money, promising to release the captives once their families delivered the ransom. When someone defied him, Dong Qisheng swiftly killed them, terrifying the remaining dignitaries. Shangguan Xi noticed that Yuan Jinxia, Lu Yi, and Xie Xiao were nowhere to be found. Dong Qisheng immediately ordered his subordinates to search diligently for Yuan Jinxia, emphasizing that Chief Mao wanted her at all costs. Unbeknownst to him, Lu Yi and Xie Xiao had also escaped.

After discovering a distinctive Japanese tattoo on one of the pirates, Lu Yi realized they had motives beyond ransom. He sent Xie Xiao to alert the authorities while he went to find Yuan Jinxia, rescuing her from a room just as pursuers closed in. In the capital, the Emperor pointedly mentioned the blossom wine to Yan Shifan.

Yan Shifan quickly offered an elaborate excuse, claiming he feared the wine's medicinal properties might interfere with the Emperor's regular medicines, and promised to immediately deliver all the jars from his residence. Back at the scene of the kidnapping, Min accidentally knocked off Mr. Sima's mask, revealing a hideous scar. Her scream alerted their captors. Shangguan Xi, having regained some strength, devised a plan to capture Dong Qisheng.

Yang Yue bravely created a diversion, feigning a severe stomach ache to lure some of the guards away. Shangguan Xi then confronted Dong Qisheng, but just as she had him cornered, government soldiers arrived. Dong Qisheng swiftly threw a powder, grabbed Shangguan Xi, and fled. Yang Yue, desperate, chased after them. Yuan Jinxia, seeing that Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue were gone, grew anxious, and Xie Xiao immediately went to search for them.

Back in the capital, Liao, having provoked the Emperor's interest in the wine, came to apologize to a furious Yan Shifan, who dismissed him in anger. With no news of Yang Yue and Shangguan Xi, Yuan Jinxia became distraught and insisted on searching for them herself. Lu Yi cautioned her that Dong Qisheng, to evade the pursuing soldiers, might abandon them as a burden, possibly even harming them. Xie Xiao, angered by Lu Yi's bluntness, retorted sharply.

Yuan Jinxia, disheartened by the dire possibility, returned to her room. Lu Yi, seeing her distress, promised he would find them. Elsewhere, Dong Qisheng's men had indeed captured Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue, with Yang Yue showing signs of having been beaten. In other news, Yan Shifan's associate reported that Lin Ling remained missing despite extensive searches, blaming Yang Chengwan's persistent interference. However, he added that there was good news from Hangzhou, with their plan nearly complete.

Episode 34 Recap

Following the events at the hairpin competition, Min tearfully explains to her father, Mr. Chunyu, that she was forced to hide overnight with Sima Chang'an to evade bandits. The resulting rumors have caused her great distress, and to quell the gossip, she pleads with him to arrange her marriage to her cousin, Lu Yi, whom she has always loved.

Mr. Chunyu is open to the idea of strengthening their family ties but worries that the exceptionally talented Lu Yi may not reciprocate her feelings. Confident, Min insists she can win him over. Meanwhile, the Emperor, displeased with the quality of the new elixirs since Master Yuanming’s death, inquires about a rumored alchemist.

An attendant tells him of Lan Qingxuan, a reclusive Taoist in the Serenity Cottage who is said to be a master of many arts, including alchemy, and whose predictions are unerringly accurate. However, he is notoriously arrogant, refusing private consultations and requiring all visitors to queue for a number card. Intrigued, the Emperor decides to visit him in disguise. At the Serenity Cottage, the Emperor and his attendant are told to join the long queue.

Impatient, the attendant pays a peddler 20 taels for an immediate access ticket. Inside, Lan Qingxuan discerns they jumped the queue by observing their dry clothes, unlike the frost-dampened attire of those who had waited since dawn. He returns their money and asks them to leave, stating he only advises the sincere. The attendant is furious, but the Emperor calmly explains they merely sought efficiency. Intrigued by the Emperor's composed demeanor, Lan Qingxuan agrees to a consultation.

The Emperor provides his birthdate, and after a quick calculation, Lan Qingxuan is astonished, declaring it the destiny of an emperor who will rule over all and enjoy peace. The Emperor dismisses this, claiming a humble marketplace upbringing and accusing Lan Qingxuan of seeking fame. In response, Lan Qingxuan proposes a bet: within ten days, a riot will erupt in the southeast.

If he is wrong, he will leave the capital forever; if right, the Emperor must give him his jade pendant. Upon seeing the pendant, Lan Qingxuan recognizes the imperial seal and, realizing he is addressing the Emperor, bows in apology. The Emperor tells him to rise, acknowledging his fortune-telling was accurate. Back at the Chunyu residence, a matchmaker arrives with lavish gifts, announcing that Sima Chang'an has been lovesick for Min since the hairpin competition and wishes to propose.

Min adamantly refuses, declaring she would never marry him. Her newly returned brother, Qi, scorns Sima Chang'an as a mere civilian with "filthy lucre," unworthy of his sister. Elsewhere, Di Lanye confronts Dong Qisheng, accusing him of reckless extortion through abduction, which has displeased their superior, Yan Shifan. Dong Qisheng defiantly states he only obeys the Chief. Di Lanye warns him of the dangers of his unsanctioned operations in Hangzhou.

Dong Qisheng then reveals his captives: a beaten and injured Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue. When Shangguan Xi sarcastically mentions his alliance with his enemy, Di Lanye confesses that she was the one who destroyed Dong's Sect on the Water, killing over 100 people on Yan Shifan's orders. Though furious, Dong Qisheng accepts this. Citing Yan Shifan’s orders, Di Lanye demands both prisoners to aid her investigation of Yuan Jinxia. Dong Qisheng agrees to release only one.

Di Lanye chooses Shangguan Xi, but she refuses to leave without Yang Yue, threatening to die before being separated. Left with no choice, Di Lanye takes Yang Yue, telling Shangguan Xi she has done all she could for a former friend. At a restaurant, Lu Yi finds Yuan Jinxia too consumed with worry for their friends to eat. He reassures her he has a lead, which instantly revives her spirits, and she proceeds to order the most expensive dishes.

Lu Yi explains that Cen Fu found footsteps and a drag mark near the Viewing Pavilion, indicating an injury, and that he has sent Xie Xiao to follow the trail. They then overhear patrons discussing how Chunyu Qi, the royal merchant's son, killed the head butler of the powerful Sima salt merchant family over a courtesan. Lu Yi’s expression darkens. Mr. Chunyu beats his son, Qi, for the murder.

To save Qi from a ruined official career, he decides to marry Min to Sima Chang'an. A desperate Min rushes to Lu Yi, begging him to marry her instead, arguing Sima Chang'an would not dare oppose the Lu family. She even offers to be his concubine, aware of his feelings for Yuan Jinxia. Lu Yi coldly refuses, stating that one wife is enough. Heartbroken, Min calls him cold-blooded, but he retorts that Embroidered Uniform Guards are inherently so.

As Min storms out, she passes Yuan Jinxia, who questions Lu Yi's inaction. He explains that the Sima family is too powerful; pressing the matter could destroy not just Qi's future but the Chunyu family's status as royal merchants, which depends on the Lu family's support. He reveals he has already sent Cen Fu to the local government to attempt mediation. Yang Yue awakens to find Di Lanye has rescued him.

Frantic for Shangguan Xi, he insists on returning to save her. Di Lanye reveals that Shangguan Xi selflessly chose to save him, giving him the only chance of escape. Min is informed her wedding is in three days. Realizing her mother prioritizes Qi's fate, she resolves to escape. Meanwhile, Lu Yi's investigation reveals that the courtesan at the center of the dispute was bought out and has vanished, leading him to suspect Qi was framed.

Using a small knife, Shangguan Xi cuts her restraints and tries to escape, but is nearly caught. Yang Yue, having returned, creates a diversion, and they flee together, only to be cornered by Dong Qisheng at a cliff. Dong Qisheng taunts them, demanding Shangguan Xi kneel and beg for Yang Yue's life, just as Yang Yue had once done for her. She kneels, but Yang Yue, unable to bear her humiliation, attacks Dong Qisheng.

In the ensuing struggle, both men tumble over the cliff. As Dong's men move to kill Shangguan Xi, Di Lanye arrives and saves her. Ignoring her injuries, Shangguan Xi rushes to the cliff's bottom to search for Yang Yue, refusing to believe he is dead, and Di Lanye accompanies her. The night before the wedding, Min attempts to flee but is caught by Yuan Jinxia, who mistakes her for a thief. Enraged, Mr. Chunyu confines Min to her room.

Lu Yi later secretly visits her with a daring plan: she must proceed with the wedding, but once at the Sima residence, she is to take a drug that induces a state of suspended animation. Her apparent death in Sima Chang'an's home will give the Chunyu family leverage to force him to drop the charges against Qi. The cost is that Min must abandon her identity forever.

Realizing this is her only way to save her brother and her family's status, she agrees. On the wedding day, as Xie Xiao continues the search for Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue, Mrs. Chunyu emotionally prepares a composed Min for the ceremony. Min feigns acceptance, reassuring her mother she understands the sacrifice is for her brother's sake, earning her mother's tearful relief.

Episode 35 Recap

Chunyu Min had her servant prepare wine and invited Yuan Jinxia to her room, claiming she had reflected deeply overnight. She tearfully admitted that their complicated relationship was her fault, born of her own misguided feelings, and that she now wished to reconcile before her wedding. Yuan Jinxia, initially cautious, was swayed by Min's seemingly sincere apology and her lament about the lack of agency women held, where parents always favored their sons.

Min then proposed a toast to put all their past enmity behind them, even asking if Yuan Jinxia feared poison when she hesitated. Yuan Jinxia eventually drank the wine, only to realize too late that it was drugged. Min then revealed her true intention: Yuan Jinxia was to marry Sima Chang'an in her place. Min's maid, Yuan Yang, briefly questioned the plan but complied under Min's insistence.

As the bride-welcoming party arrived, Yuan Yang, following Min's instructions, tearfully informed the Chunyu Master and Madam that Min had fainted from overwhelming grief. Fearing the powerful Sima family, the Chunyu parents agreed to carry the unconscious bride to the Sima mansion, considering the ceremony half complete. Sima Chang'an readily agreed, promising to withdraw the lawsuit against the Chunyu family after the wedding. Yuan Jinxia, her face covered by the bridal veil, was carried away.

Unbeknownst to them, Lu Yi and Xie Xiao, who were also searching for Yuan Jinxia, did not recognize the bride as she was taken. Min, meanwhile, slipped away to hide. In the imperial palace, the Emperor expressed disappointment over the lack of important reports, particularly from the Jiangzhe region regarding any unusual phenomena. He openly doubted the Taoist priest Lan Qingxuan, believing him to be a charlatan who used his reputation to swindle money.

He ordered his eunuch, Li Fang, to retrieve the jade that had been wagered and to immediately banish Lan Qingxuan from the capital. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia awoke in the bridal chamber, her mind hazy from the drug. Realizing her predicament, she resolved to escape but noticed a heavy presence of guards outside. Puzzled by the unusual number of guards for a salt merchant's residence, she attempted to flee through a window, only to be immediately discovered and seized.

Back in the capital, Li Fang confronted Lan Qingxuan, informing him that the bet with the Emperor was due and that since no strange phenomena had occurred, he was to return the jade and leave. Lan Qingxuan vehemently denied this, stating that his predictions indicated the strange phenomena had occurred and that someone must have deliberately withheld the reports from the Emperor. He boldly staked his own head as a guarantee, urging the Emperor to investigate the Jiangzhe region thoroughly.

Back at the Sima mansion, Yuan Jinxia found herself bound, just as Yan Shifan, dressed in wedding attire, entered the room. Both were visibly surprised to see each other. Lu Yi grew increasingly anxious about Yuan Jinxia’s whereabouts. Cen Fu reported that some servants had seen Yuan Jinxia with Yuan Yang. Lu Yi found this suspicious, knowing Yuan Yang was Min’s personal maid and should have accompanied her to the wedding.

Reflecting on Yuan Jinxia’s character and the circumstances of the wedding, Lu Yi deduced that the true bride taken to Sima Chang'an's mansion was Yuan Jinxia. He immediately set off for the Sima mansion. Inside the bridal chamber, Yuan Jinxia pleaded with Yan Shifan to untie her, explaining she was not his intended bride and had been drugged. Yan Shifan, however, was in a playful mood, questioning why she was there and then accusing her of following him.

Ignoring her protests, he began to accost her, stating that a wedding night naturally involved intimacy. Just as Yuan Jinxia cried out in distress, Lu Yi and Cen Fu burst into the room. Lu Yi was surprised to find Yan Shifan there but focused immediately on the vulnerable Yuan Jinxia. Yan Shifan, amused, pulled Yuan Jinxia into his lap, caressed her face, and provocatively declared she was his and Lu Yi had no right to take her.

Lu Yi sharply reminded Yan Shifan that his identity as Sima Chang'an was a sham, rendering the marriage null and void, especially since the bride was a substitute. Yan Shifan remained defiant, even leaning in close to Yuan Jinxia’s neck, causing her to shriek in fear.

Unable to tolerate it any longer, Lu Yi rushed forward, pulled Yuan Jinxia from Yan Shifan's grasp, and, ignoring Yan Shifan's veiled threats, declared that since he had come, he would certainly take her with him. Yan Shifan, after a moment, instructed his guard, Yan Feng, to let them go, ominously stating that the future was long. Lu Yi carried the disheveled Yuan Jinxia out, then helped her onto his horse, riding back towards the Chunyu mansion.

After escorting Yuan Jinxia to a room in the Chunyu mansion, Lu Yi prepared to leave, but Yuan Jinxia called out to him. She confessed that she had felt truly hopeless, believing she couldn't escape her fate, until he appeared. She then asked if offending Yan Shifan for her sake was truly worth it.

Lu Yi turned, pulled her into a tender embrace, and revealed that while he could tolerate Yan Shifan's transgressions against himself, he could not bear to see Yuan Jinxia harmed in the slightest. He confessed that while he had often wondered about the woman he would one day marry and have children with, he had never imagined it would be her. He gently kissed her forehead, his eyes full of tenderness.

Yuan Jinxia cautiously nestled into his arms, tears silently streaming down her face. Later, the Chunyu Master, having apprehended his daughter, brought Min to the Sima mansion. Yan Shifan, appearing indifferent, instructed the Chunyu Master to leave Min with him and then forcibly dragged her into the bridal chamber, questioning her audacity and implying a harsh reprisal for having tricked him. The following morning, Yuan Jinxia awoke, disbelieving that the events of the previous night were not a dream.

Clutching her blanket, she giggled softly to herself, reveling in the realization that Lu Yi loved her. In stark contrast, Min, having endured a night of torment at Yan Shifan's hands, seethed with hatred for everyone. Meanwhile, the Emperor, following up on Lan Qingxuan's earlier claims, discovered that serious civilian conflicts in the Wu and Kang districts had resulted in tens of thousands of casualties over a week ago, and the local prefect's reports had been deliberately suppressed.

Realizing the truth in Lan Qingxuan's words, the Emperor acknowledged his virtues. Commander Lu Ting's investigation confirmed Lan Qingxuan was an orphaned disciple of Master Yuanming, a devout Taoist hermit, and under the protection of Sir Yang Ming. Convinced, the Emperor ordered Li Fang to invite Lan Qingxuan to the palace. Yuan Jinxia, still processing recent events, suggested exposing Sima Chang'an and Yan Shifan as the same person.

However, Lu Yi cautioned her, reminding her that Chunyu Kai, Min's brother, was still in Yan Shifan's custody, meaning the Chunyu parents would not easily change their stance. Lu Yi affirmed that he had done everything he could for Min, but since she had chosen to harm Yuan Jinxia, he would naturally protect his own. Yuan Jinxia then playfully asked if he would still be fair and just if she were to make a mistake in the future.

Lu Yi responded affirmatively, adding that she should behave well and always follow his instructions to avoid any missteps. Lu Yi admitted his surprise at Yan Shifan's willingness to fake an identity. Yuan Jinxia recounted her fear upon realizing Yan Shifan was the groom, and mentioned his previous two marriages, questioning why he would come to Hangzhou to act as a businessman and marry common girls.

She then recalled hearing at the Sima mansion that the dowry included a land contract for the Chunyu family's western stables, speculating that Yan Shifan's true motive for marrying Min was this land. Lu Yi agreed, concluding there must be a deeper, hidden reason behind Yan Shifan's actions. The Emperor summoned his trusted ministers to a grand announcement.

He proclaimed that he and Lan Qingxuan had successfully forged a miraculous Dan medicine from rare herbs, which would prolong lifespan and improve circulation, and generously distributed the pills to his officials. Subsequently, Lan Qingxuan sent a secret message to Lu Yi, delivered by a messenger and promptly burned by Cen Fu under Lu Yi's instruction.

The message confirmed that Lan Qingxuan, with the help of Sir Xu, had gained the Emperor's trust and was now by his side, signaling that Lu Yi could now proceed with his plan. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi, still heavily injured, relentlessly searched for Yang Yue. Di Lanye desperately tried to make her eat some fruit, scolding her for starving herself and worrying that Shangguan Xi would die if she continued this way.

Di Lanye questioned what Shangguan Xi would do if Yang Yue was never found, but Shangguan Xi remained resolute, believing that if Yang Yue was still alive, she would certainly find him. After finishing the fruit, Shangguan Xi, despite her weakness, pushed herself to her feet and continued her determined search.

Episode 36 Recap

Yang Yue awakened in a small, rustic cabin, his body covered in wounds. A hunter entered, revealing that he had saved Yang Yue after finding him on the mountain. Though eager to find his friends, Yang Yue was too weak to move and reluctantly drank the medicine the hunter offered, who advised him to rest until his wounds healed. Meanwhile, Chunyu Qi returned home to the great delight of his father.

Yuan Jinxia commented that Chunyu Min's sacrifices had not been in vain. Qi agreed, calling his sister the Chunyu family's greatest savior, and he would thank her properly. Jinxia found this ironic, remarking on how quickly a married daughter is considered a stranger. She confronted them directly, pointing out that they viewed their daughter as a commodity to be traded for profit, and that it was no wonder Min had become so twisted with such a family.

Offended, Qi retorted that girls were simply cheap assets. Enraged, Yuan Jinxia lunged at him, but Lu Yi intervened, pulling her back. He excused Jinxia's candor and announced they would depart for the official inn the next day to avoid causing further trouble. Later, Yuan Jinxia expressed her outrage to Lu Yi over the Chunyu family's callousness. Lu Yi reminded her that as a constable, she could not simply assault people and must remember her official duties.

Jinxia conceded her behavior was rash and vowed to be more discreet in the future. Lu Yi clarified that their departure was not because of her actions, but because their prolonged stay and true identities could drag the Chunyu family into danger. When Lu Yi asked if she still hated Min, Jinxia reflected on her own humble but loving mother, who would rather die than force her into an unwanted marriage.

She admitted to pitying Min but affirmed that she would not forget the injustice done to her. Lu Yi's subordinate, Cen Fu, reported that the two women Yan Shifan had married under his Sima Chang'an identity shared a common link: a piece of land near the Chunyu family's stables. Curious, Lu Yi decided to investigate the site, with Yuan Jinxia accompanying him.

In a separate search, Lin Ling, Beggar Uncle, and Yang Yue's father learned that the trafficker they were looking for had died, leaving the fate of Lin Ling's niece uncertain. Lin Ling was heartbroken, but they agreed to prioritize finding Yang Yue. Having received information that Lu Yi's group was in Hangzhou, they resolved to head directly to the Chunyu mansion. Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia arrived at the land and observed workers diligently transporting goods.

Jinxia recognized two of the men from Sima Chang'an's mansion. Lu Yi surmised the site was a rich mineral vein, specifically a tin mine, noting the advanced metallurgical techniques. Soon after, Yan Shifan appeared, inspecting the quality of refined tin springs and ordering his men to increase production. Lu Yi and Jinxia discreetly followed a transport cart, managing to obtain a dropped spring and apprehend a worker.

Under questioning, the man revealed that the cave housed a mine and a metallurgical factory. He explained that Sima Chang'an had forced him to locate the mineral veins, leveraging his ancestral mining expertise, and detailed that the mine was divided into three parts. Jinxia realized Sima's marriages were a cover to acquire the land deeds containing this valuable mine. As Lu Yi prepared to take the worker into custody, Yan Shifan and his entourage appeared, having noticed their spying.

Yan Shifan brazenly taunted Jinxia, recalling her on his wedding bed. Enraged, Jinxia called him shameless, but Lu Yi restrained her. After they were escorted away, Yan Feng swiftly executed the captured worker. Deeply troubled, Lu Yi told Jinxia that he could no longer bring her on such perilous missions. Meanwhile, Xie Xiao located a haggard Shangguan Xi, who informed him that Yang Yue had fallen off a cliff and his body was not found.

Clinging to hope, Xie Xiao suggested Yang Yue might still be alive and took her back to the Wu'an Sect, instructing his men to continue the search. At the Chunyu mansion, Min returned to find her parents and Qi happily dining, seemingly unconcerned about her. She made a sarcastic comment about her marriage to "Sima Chang'an," but Yan Feng, who was present, quickly interjected. Min bitterly confronted her family for their hypocrisy, leaving them visibly uncomfortable.

Back with the hunter, Yang Yue tried to remove his bandages, but the hunter stopped him, warning that it could lead to infection and permanent disfigurement. Distraught, Yang Yue asked about the severity of his wounds, but the hunter could not give a certain answer. Elsewhere, Shangguan Xi stared forlornly at a hairpin Yang Yue had given her.

When Xie Xiao brought her food, she urged him to inform Yuan Jinxia of Yang Yue's disappearance, believing Jinxia's tracking skills could locate him. Aware that Lu Yi would report his illegal mining, Yan Shifan ordered his men to find a replacement for Sima Chang'an and erase all traces of his involvement. He also told Yan Feng to have Zhai Lanye manage the mine.

When Yan Feng reported that Min might have exposed him, Yan Shifan dismissed killing her family immediately, stating it wouldn't be "any fun." Lu Yi informed Jinxia that he had reported Sima Chang'an's unauthorized mining to the court. However, without concrete evidence linking him to Yan Shifan, he couldn't expose Yan Shifan's true identity. Jinxia offered to testify, but Lu Yi firmly refused, unwilling to put her in danger.

She hugged his arm, insisting she wasn't afraid and would face any peril with him. As Min was being transported, her sedan chair was abruptly stopped. Her attendants abandoned her, and Yan Shifan appeared. He informed her that Sima Chang'an would soon cease to exist, a "gift" from Lu Yi, and ominously asked how he should treat her now. Terrified, Min begged for her life, offering to help him deal with Lu Yi.

Yan Shifan scoffed, deeming a simple murder too crude; he preferred to "steal what is most important to him and make him suffer for his whole life." Min immediately understood he meant Yuan Jinxia. Yan Shifan confirmed her intuition, agreeing to give her the chance, but only after she passed his test. Yan Shifan had his men kill the Chunyu family's guards and entered the mansion with Min, where her parents, Qi, and their maid were captured.

He callously asked Min's father what to do with the daughter who had angered him. The terrified father replied that she was his to command. Yan Shifan handed Min a knife and ordered her to kill the maid. Min hesitated, and Yan Feng stepped in to kill the maid himself. As Min screamed in horror, Yan Shifan forced the knife back into her hand, commanding her to either kill her family or herself.

To save Qi and the family line, Min's father tragically committed suicide. Despite this, Yan Shifan showed no mercy, killing Min's mother and Qi. Min collapsed, wailing over the bodies. Yan Shifan declared that she should hate Lu Yi for causing this and that only by following him could she get her revenge, warning her to be obedient or face the same fate.

At the official inn, Lu Yi examined the spring from the mine, noting its quality was far superior to the one in Jinxia's pistol. He explained that if such iron were used for firearms, their power would multiply, making this a crime punishable by the extermination of nine generations. Just then, Xie Xiao arrived and told Jinxia that while Shangguan Xi was safe, Yang Yue was still missing after falling from a cliff.

Distraught, Jinxia insisted on searching for him immediately. As they prepared to leave, Lu Yi received urgent news that the Chunyu family had been massacred. He ordered that coffins be purchased for their funeral and that Min be found. Meanwhile, Jinxia, examining a footprint at the cliff's edge, noted its handmade sole and depth, concluding Yang Yue must have been rescued. She and Xie Xiao set off to find the rescuer. At the Chunyu horse farm, Lu Yi found Min.

She ran to him, calling him "cousin" and collapsing in a feigned state of shock upon hearing of her family's murder. Elsewhere, Yang Yue finally removed his bandages and saw a long, disfiguring scar across his face. Overwhelmed, he broke down, smashing objects in despair.

Episode 37 Recap

Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao have been searching tirelessly for Yang Yue, who has been missing for a day. Shangguan Xi is distressed that despite extensive searches by sect members, he remains unfound. Yang Chengwan, accompanied by Beggar and Lin Ling, arrives. They explain they met in Yangzhou after receiving an urgent message from the Wu'an Sect about Yang Yue's predicament in Hangzhou, prompting them to come and offer assistance.

Yang Chengwan is distraught upon learning that Yang Yue and Dong Qisheng fell down a cliff and are now missing. Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao reassure him, explaining they searched the cliff bottom and, while Yang Yue isn't found, his absence could signify he was rescued by kind villagers. They emphasize that the search is ongoing.

Xie Xiao conveys the latest updates to Shangguan Xi, mentioning Yuan Jinxia detected footsteps at the cliff base, suggesting Yang Yue might have been rescued. Despite checking nearby villages all day without success, Xie Xiao encourages Shangguan Xi to rest, promising that numerous people are inquiring and will find Yang Yue if he's alive. Separately, Lu Yi asks Cen Fu if Yang Chengwan is aware of Yang Yue's disappearance.

Yuan Jinxia, despite her master's calm words, confesses her deep worry for Yang Yue, feeling her renowned tracking skills are powerless in this situation. Lu Yi gently challenges her self-doubt. Yuan Jinxia expresses frustration that if Yang Yue was rescued, they should have found him, or perhaps he is intentionally hiding. She recounts her close bond with Yang Yue, who always acted like a protective younger brother, and how his disappearance has left her feeling vulnerable.

Lu Yi comforts her, assuring her that Yang Yue will be alright. Yuan Jinxia then inquires about Miss Chunyu. Lu Yi explains that after the Chunyu mansion's tragedy, Miss Chunyu was left homeless, and he instructed Cen Fu to arrange accommodation for her. Both Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi dismiss the official explanation that a common criminal was responsible for the mansion's tragedy, acknowledging they both suspect a more powerful figure is involved.

Shangguan Xi confronts Xie Xiao and bestows upon him the token of the Vermilion Bird Hall's head, stating it was always rightfully his, and she merely held it for three years. Xie Xiao resists, arguing the Wu'an Sect cannot function without her, as she is its core. Shangguan Xi clarifies that recent events have made her realize her true desires; Yang Yue's disappearance has made her accustomed to his presence, and she now intends to find him.

She informs Xie Xiao that the responsibilities of the Wu'an Sect will now fall to him. Xie Xiao expresses reluctance, citing his desire for a free life and his disinterest in holding such a powerful position. He even suggests he search for Yang Yue instead. Shangguan Xi angrily chastises him for his irresponsible words, admitting her indulgence might have made him this way.

She reiterates her decision, handing him the token and insisting that he must bear all future hardships for the sect, as she is determined to pursue her own aspirations. Seeing her resolve, Xie Xiao finally relents, vowing not to disappoint her in managing the Wu'an Sect, which brings Shangguan Xi a sense of peace.

Di Lanye convenes with her subordinate, revealing that the officials and wealthy individuals kidnapped at the Hairpin Competition have collectively appealed to the emperor for increased military presence and funds to suppress robbers. Di Lanye then instructs her subordinate to convey to Chief Mao that if he accepts responsibility for the unauthorized mining operation, her young master will resolve the issues with the nobles. She implies that Chief Mao's agreement is crucial and most beneficial for him.

Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi walks disconsolately through the streets and is nearly struck by a horse before a figure wearing a straw hat pulls her to safety. She immediately recognizes Yang Yue and calls out to him, questioning why he's hiding. Yang Yue, however, flees without a word, leaving Shangguan Xi to fruitlessly search and call his name in despair.

Separately, Cen Fu informs Lu Yi that his search of Yan Shifan's boat yielded no evidence, suggesting Yan Shifan likely destroyed any incriminating links to Sima Chang'an. Lu Yi, unperturbed, deduces that the deaths at Chunyu mansion were likely due to the victims knowing Sima Chang'an's true identity. He states his determination to make Yan Shifan pay a heavy price in due time. Shangguan Xi soon senses she's being followed.

She intentionally lures her pursuers into a secluded alley, where she ambushes and interrogates them. They reveal they were sent by Chief Mao, the pirate leader, to apprehend her for killing their deputy. Shangguan Xi, hoping to draw out Yang Yue, feigns cooperation and agrees to accompany them. As they travel, Yang Yue indeed reappears, valiantly rescuing Shangguan Xi from her captors. Despite her relief, Yang Yue attempts to deny his identity, claiming she has mistaken him for someone else.

Shangguan Xi refuses to let him leave, tearing off his straw hat to reveal a fearsome scar on his face. She expresses both heartache and indignation at his self-pity, chastising him for hiding over a mere scar and reminding him of everyone's worry. She tells him that his survival is what truly matters, then embraces him. Yang Yue, torn, hesitates to return her embrace, his hand falling back to his side.

Soon after, Yang Chengwan expresses immense relief at Yang Yue's safe return. Yuan Jinxia, Beggar, and Lin Ling also rush to his side. Lin Ling immediately examines Yang Yue, diagnosing internal organ damage that will require approximately a month of rest, medicine, and acupuncture for full recovery. Before Yang Yue can even inquire about the scar on his face, Shangguan Xi gently but firmly guides him back to his room to ensure he rests as prescribed.

Lin Ling and Beggar arrive at a herbal medicine shop to purchase medicine for Yang Yue, where they unexpectedly cross paths with Yan Feng. Meanwhile, Lu Yi learns from a message that the incidents at the Hairpin Competition have reached the capital, prompting court officials to demand severe punishment for Wu Shouxu, alleging his failure to combat pirates led to the kidnappings.

Lu Yi suspects that followers of the Yan family are exploiting the situation to incite further trouble, noting that without Wu Shouxu and Yu Dayong, Hangzhou would have faced greater peril. Yuan Jinxia inquires about the true circumstances surrounding Wang Zhi's imprisonment, given widespread rumors of Wu Shouxu's betrayal. Lu Yi clarifies that Wu Shouxu had, in fact, advocated for Wang Zhi's life after his surrender.

However, Wu Shouxu was subsequently impeached for corruption and abetting pirates, which compelled him to imprison Wang Zhi to avoid being discharged and causing further chaos in the Liangzhe Circuit. Yuan Jinxia denounces the sinister nature of civil officials. Shortly after, Wu Shouxu dispatches an envoy to invite Lu Yi to his mansion for an urgent discussion. Lu Yi remarks that this invitation was anticipated, though it arrived later than expected.

Yuan Jinxia expresses concern, highlighting Wu Shouxu's close ties to Liao Wenhua, Yan Song's adopted son, and fears that Wu Shouxu might attempt to harm Lu Yi to curry favor with Yan Song. Lu Yi reassures her, explaining that Liao Wenhua, who originally recommended Wu Shouxu, has recently incurred Yan Shifan's wrath by presenting the blossom wine to the emperor without Yan Song's prior consent.

Lu Yi surmises that Wu Shouxu, realizing Liao Wenhua is now disfavored, is strategically seeking a new powerful patron. He agrees to visit Wu Shouxu. Yan Shifan tasks Di Lanye with uncovering the true purpose of Lin Ling and Yang Chengwan's visit to Hangzhou. Di Lanye expresses her unease, acknowledging Lin Ling's profound significance to Yan Shifan, who has been searching for her for over a decade.

Yan Shifan dismisses her concerns, suggesting such investigations won't be necessary in the future. Upon arriving at Wu Shouxu's residence, Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia are met with a somber scene. Wu Shouxu, apologetic for his inability to entertain them, explains that his foster son lies dead in a coffin, brutally murdered by Chief Mao in retaliation for Wang Zhi's imprisonment. He requests they return another day.

However, Yuan Jinxia, observing the coffin, quickly deduces that the foster son died less than six hours prior, was transported by wagon, and the murder scene is likely within two li. She proposes they investigate further, and Lu Yi agrees. Following the wagon tracks, they arrive at a secluded village where the inhabitants rush indoors upon their arrival, and numerous eyes peer out from windows.

Lu Yi notes the villagers' modest appearance contrasting with expensive horseshoe iron, suspecting the village serves as a hidden gathering place for Japanese pirates. Before they can plan their next move, they are confronted by the pirates, led by Wang Mazi, a familiar interpreter. Wang Mazi claims Wu Shouxu willingly sacrificed his adopted son as retribution for breaking a prior agreement.

A skirmish erupts, and Lu Yi, using a handful of silver coins as a clever distraction, creates enough chaos to escape with Yuan Jinxia. Once safe, Yuan Jinxia laments Lu Yi's extravagant use of money as a weapon, calling him a "squanderer." Lu Yi, unfazed, explains his lack of concern for money and expresses surprise that these pirates reside in ordinary villages.

He further notes that many are not true Japanese but rather impoverished coastal residents who joined Chief Mao for quick riches, hiding their pirate activities from their families. Lu Yi admits his greatest surprise is Wu Shouxu's willingness to sacrifice his foster son to appease Chief Mao, realizing this explains Wu Shouxu's lack of urgency in apprehending the murderer. Lu Yi then spots a wound behind Yuan Jinxia's ear, making her realize she's injured.

He gently scolds her for her impulsiveness, even playfully threatening to deduct her salary. Yuan Jinxia, touched by his concern, playfully argues that such threats strain their relationship. Lu Yi, holding her hand, urges her to be more careful and cautious in the future, if only for his sake. Yuan Jinxia dutifully agrees, and Lu Yi, promising to compensate her for the discarded silver, leads her away.

Lin Ling assures Yang Yue that his facial scar will heal completely if he cares for it properly. As Shangguan Xi enters, Lin Ling takes her leave. Yang Yue, however, turns away, reluctant to let Shangguan Xi see his face. He claims his appearance makes no difference and suggests that once Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao return to Yangzhou, their paths will rarely cross, wishing her a safe future.

Shangguan Xi questions his presumption of her departure, while Yang Yue dismisses her guilt, asserting his scar is unrelated to her and, as a man, it's a minor issue. He tells her he's tired and wishes to rest. Feeling both hurt and misjudged by his words, Shangguan Xi replies that if that's truly his mindset, she has nothing further to say.

She places his medicine nearby, urging him to take care of himself if he genuinely doesn't want her to feel guilty, before departing. Later, Di Lanye uses sleeping incense and bells to hypnotize Yang Chengwan, then secretly enters his room. Pretending to be Lin He, she questions Yang Chengwan about Lin Ling, who he identifies as his younger sister.

Yang Chengwan reveals that he is accompanying Lin Ling in her search for "your daughter," explaining they had sought a human trader for information, only to find him deceased. He adds that their current journey to Hangzhou was to find Yang Yue and Yuan Jinxia. As Di Lanye presses for details about the daughter's whereabouts, Yang Chengwan suddenly becomes agitated and lucid, adamantly refusing to disclose anything further, repeating, "I can't say."

Yang Chengwan later awakens, startled and drenched in sweat. Di Lanye reports her findings to Yan Shifan, confirming that Yang Chengwan and Lin Ling are indeed searching for Lin He's missing daughter, though the human trader who might have had information is dead. Yan Shifan immediately recalls that Xia Ran had a granddaughter who vanished on the Lantern Festival night and was never found before the Xia family's execution.

He deduces this is Lin He's daughter and believes finding her will compel Lin Ling to return to him willingly. Despite Di Lanye's offer to lead the search, Yan Shifan assigns the task to Yan Feng, instructing him to locate the girl, even if it means finding her remains. Wu Shouxu dispatches an envoy to deliver numerous gifts to Lu Yi, apologizing for the prior circumstances at his mansion and expressing concern for Lu Yi's daily conveniences.

Among the gifts are two women, Sisi and Lianlian, intended to serve Lu Yi. Yuan Jinxia, upon seeing the lavish presents and the women, quickly positions herself in front of Lu Yi, urging him to leave. She then befriends Sisi and Lianlian, charming them with compliments. Yuan Jinxia hints that Lu Yi is not interested in female charms but appreciates those who are good at conversation, suggesting they tell interesting stories to impress him.

Cen Fu voices concern about Wu Shouxu's motives, suspecting a trap. However, Lu Yi asserts he fully understands Wu Shouxu's intentions. He instructs Cen Fu to arrange rooms for Sisi and Lianlian, ensuring they are situated as far as possible from his own courtyard, and then asks for Yuan Jinxia to be brought to him.

Episode 38 Recap

The butler informed Wu Shouxu that while Lu Yi returned his gifts, he did not send back Madam Si and Madam Lian, which Wu Shouxu interpreted as a sign that Lu Yi was not entirely unreceptive to his goodwill. Wu Shouxu then proceeded to inspect military provisions that had arrived from the Ministry of War, accompanied by Xu Zhihan. Meanwhile, Lu Yi summoned Yuan Jinxia, asking what she had learned from Madam Si and Madam Lian.

Yuan Jinxia explained that both women were indeed Wu Shouxu's, but their knowledge was limited to internal family squabbles, primarily about women competing for his favors. She revealed that Wu Shouxu’s true favorite was a man named Xu Zhihan, whom they admired greatly.

Yuan Jinxia also shared a significant detail: last Mid-Autumn Festival, Wu Shouxu was in such a good mood at a family feast that he promised to take his women to worship at Mount Putuo by the end of the year. Lu Yi immediately noted the timing, as Wang Zhi had been arrested in September of the previous year, and Mount Putuo was on an island, a dangerous journey due to rampant pirates.

Wu Shouxu’s confidence suggested he was certain of suppressing the pirates even before Wang Zhi’s capture. Connecting this to Wang Mazi’s earlier claim that Wu Shouxu had sent his adopted son to Zhoushan, where Mao Haifeng was also present, Lu Yi concluded that Wu Shouxu seemed to be colluding with the pirates. Yuan Jinxia then playfully asked if Madam Si and Madam Lian should be returned the next day, noting how interested they were in Lu Yi.

Lu Yi, amused, refused, stating it would be disrespectful to send them back so soon. As Yuan Jinxia grew increasingly jealous, Lu Yi deliberately provoked her by saying her face and figure couldn't compare to theirs. Enraged, Yuan Jinxia threatened to keep the women herself. Seeing her undeniable jealousy, Lu Yi pulled her into an embrace, and Yuan Jinxia, flustered, quickly left.

Shangguan Xi was visibly upset, her eyes red, after learning that the Master had ordered all laymen of Southern Shaolin to the coast to fight against the pirates. This command came at the request of Wu Shouxu, who sought reinforcements for the Jiangzhe region. Shangguan Xi expressed concern that Xie Xiao’s father would not approve of him going, especially since he had just returned.

However, Xie Xiao insisted on going, asserting that as a layman of Southern Shaolin Monastery, it was his duty to obey his master’s order and, as a man, to guard his home and defend the country. He promised to write a letter to his father immediately to inform him. They planned to depart the following day, but before leaving, Xie Xiao expressed his desire to say goodbye to Yuan Jinxia.

Meanwhile, Yan Shifan received intelligence that Wu Shouxu’s military strength would significantly increase with the Southern Shaolin reinforcements and the court-supplied army provisions for Yu Dayong’s troops. Yan Shifan decided not to help Mao Haifeng, stating that his cooperation with Mao Haifeng was purely for financial gain, and he would not go against his own people like Yu Dayong.

Yan Feng reported on his investigation into the Xia family’s granddaughter, revealing that after being abandoned by human traffickers, she was sent to a brothel. Yan Shifan ordered him to continue the search to find her before Lin Ling did. Later, Yuan Jinxia saw off Xie Xiao and Shangguan Xi.

Shangguan Xi, with a heavy heart, asked Yuan Jinxia to convey a message to Yang Yue: if she were to unluckily die on the coast, she hoped he would light incense for her at the Pure Brightness Festival, considering it an end to their affection. Xie Xiao found her words demoralizing, but Yuan Jinxia assured Shangguan Xi she would deliver the message. Xie Xiao then jokingly told Yuan Jinxia she would be responsible for his funeral if he didn't return.

Yuan Jinxia warned them to be careful, as pirates were crafty and swords had no eyes on the battlefield, wishing them a safe return. Yang Yue sat alone, looking dejected. Yuan Jinxia approached him and told him that Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao would be leaving for the coast to fight pirates the next day. She then relayed Shangguan Xi’s message to him.

Yuan Jinxia added a poignant remark that if some people were not met now, they might never be seen again. Yang Yue sighed, reflecting on his past entanglement with Shangguan Xi and wondering what he had been doing these days, questioning if he had forgotten his promise to her. Dong Qisheng, having survived his fall from the cliff, was found by Di Lanye.

She proposed a mutually beneficial plan: Dong Qisheng should capture Lin Ling and offer her to his chief, Mao Haifeng, which would be considered a great merit. Dong Qisheng was curious as to why, and Di Lanye admitted that Lin Ling was her enemy, and she sought revenge. Dong Qisheng, in turn, proposed a condition: Di Lanye must destroy the new batch of army provisions that Wu Shouxu had received for Yu Dayong’s troops.

Di Lanye agreed to the division of labor. Later, under the cover of night, Di Lanye attempted to sneak into the army camp to destroy the provisions but was discovered by patrolling soldiers and forced to flee. The next morning, as Yuan Jinxia was about to eat breakfast, Lu Yi suddenly appeared, took her bun, and remade one for her.

Soon after, Wu Shouxu requested Lu Yi to investigate the destruction of the army provisions at the yamen storage, where more than half had been ruined overnight. Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia went to the scene, noting the fusty smell. Yuan Jinxia found some powder, which Lu Yi suspected was the cause of the rice spoilage, and he ordered Cen Fu to investigate its origin.

Upon examining the body of a patrolman who had been knocked unconscious without visible injuries, Yuan Jinxia found a familiar silver needle, which Lu Yi identified as Di Lanye’s weapon. Yuan Jinxia was puzzled, wondering why Yan Shifan, being her superior, would order such an act, as Wu Shouxu’s defeat would harm the Yan family's reputation.

Lu Yi explained that it was a case of "dog-eat-dog," stemming from Liao Wenhua's attempt to trick the emperor, which led to the emperor's distrust in Yan Song. Yan Shifan, seeking to eliminate Liao Wenhua, was starting with Wu Shouxu. Still, Yuan Jinxia questioned the destructive method, as it seemed unlike Yan Shifan's usual style. Lu Yi then instructed Cen Fu to investigate whom Di Lanye had recently contacted. Shortly after, Wu Shouxu invited Lu Yi to his study.

In Wu Shouxu’s study, Lu Yi met Wu Shouxu and Xu Zhihan. Wu Shouxu was candid about his precarious situation, stating he had both internal and external troubles and could only be honest with Lu Yi to overcome them. Lu Yi subtly reminded him that regardless of the Yan family's power, the emperor ultimately ruled the country. Lu Yi then suggested that Wu Shouxu take Madam Si and Madam Lian back to his mansion, to avoid any potentially damaging gossip.

Wu Shouxu agreed. As Lu Yi was leaving, Xu Zhihan walked him to the gate and earnestly explained that his concern was not Wu Shouxu’s official post but the welfare of the Liangzhe region. He emphasized Wu Shouxu's extensive experience in training soldiers against pirates over many years, warning that his replacement would cause a large-scale upheaval in the army, setting back years of effort and prolonging the pirate menace.

Lu Yi understood Xu Zhihan's dedication to the people and promised to do his best. Lu Yi then asked Xu Zhihan why he had refused his father Lu Ting’s invitations in the past but agreed to serve Wu Shouxu. Xu Zhihan explained that as a native of Shaoxing, he could not stand idly by while his homeland suffered from pirates. Lu Yi expressed his admiration for Xu Zhihan’s selflessness.

Later, Yuan Jinxia voiced her concern to Lu Yi about Wu Shouxu's possible ulterior motives, but Lu Yi assured her he had everything under control. Lin Ling prepared to go to the herbal medicine shop and asked Yuan Jinxia to check on Yang Chengwan. She explained that Yang Yue had left without a word, causing Yang Chengwan to seclude himself in his room, refusing to open the door to anyone.

Yuan Jinxia immediately went to Yang Chengwan's room, finding him lamenting that Yang Yue couldn't bear setbacks and had changed drastically just from a facial injury. Yang Chengwan wondered if he had put too much pressure on Yang Yue since childhood. Yuan Jinxia candidly told him that Yang Yue actually disliked being a constable and only continued the work to avoid displeasing his father. She explained that Yang Yue found true happiness in the kitchen, cooking.

Yang Chengwan sighed, and Yuan Jinxia, with some persuasive words, managed to cheer him up, and they went to eat together. As Lin Ling was returning from the herbal shop, she was intercepted by men who claimed their master wished for her to treat a patient. When she refused, they forcibly abducted her. Mr. Beggar, worried after Lin Ling did not return from the herbal medicine shop, sought out Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi.

He revealed that Yan Shifan had once captured Lin Ling in Yangzhou and was, in fact, responsible for the extermination of Lin Ling’s entire family, adding that Yan Shifan’s eye injury was also caused by Lin Ling. Lu Yi decided that he and Cen Fu would go to Yan Shifan's residence to probe, while Yuan Jinxia and Mr. Beggar would search the surrounding area.

Lin Ling was brought before Dong Qisheng, who informed her that he intended to present her, a highly skilled doctor, to his chief, Mao Haifeng, to gain favor. Meanwhile, Lu Yi arrived at Yan Shifan's place and asked if Lin Ling was currently his guest. Observing Yan Shifan’s genuinely surprised reaction, Lu Yi's suspicion regarding him eased considerably. Lu Yi then casually mentioned the destruction of General Yu’s army provisions and the hidden needle found at the scene.

Yan Shifan feigned ignorance. After Lu Yi departed, Yan Shifan angrily ordered Yan Feng to summon Di Lanye and to investigate who had dared to capture Lin Ling, referring to her as “my woman.” Yuan Jinxia and Mr. Beggar, distraught that the lead to Yan Shifan had gone cold, were at a loss. Yang Chengwan, however, advised them that now that Yan Shifan knew of Lin Ling’s disappearance, keeping a close watch on him might still provide a chance to find her.

Episode 39 Recap

Zhai Lanye knelt before Yan Shifan, who slapped her and questioned why she destroyed the army rations, suggesting she wanted Yu Dayong to fail for her own benefit. Zhai Lanye claimed she acted in his favor and was willing to bear all responsibilities, but Yan Shifan grabbed her neck and warned her that if she ever defied him again, he would surely kill her. He then inquired about Lin Ling’s disappearance.

Zhai Lanye denied any knowledge, stating she had stopped investigating Lin Ling after Yan Shifan’s previous instructions to stay away from her. Yan Shifan did not believe her, but before he could press further, Yan Feng arrived, whispered something to him, and the two left. Later, Yan Feng and Yan Shifan arrived at Dong Qisheng’s residence, demanding the skilled doctor Lin Ling.

Dong Qisheng, highly deferential, immediately sold Zhai Lanye out, revealing that she had initially told him to take Lin Ling for his chief’s plan. Now that Yan Shifan wanted her, he would hand her over immediately. Outside, Lu Yi, Yuan Jinxia, Mr. Beggar, and Yang Chengwan were observing. Mr. Beggar was eager to rush in and rescue Lin Ling, but Yang Chengwan held him back, advising patience.

He argued that if they stormed the house, they wouldn't stand a chance if Yan Shifan and Dong Qisheng colluded. Yang Chengwan also reasoned that since Yan Shifan had come himself, he wouldn't easily harm Lin Ling, and they should wait for them to emerge. As Yan Shifan emerged, carrying Lin Ling tightly in his arms, she was shocked to see him.

He greeted her, commenting that after so many years, she still remembered him, and noting how difficult it was to find her, asserting he wouldn't let her go easily. He complimented her unchanging youth and beauty, and recounted how much he had missed her, especially when he looked at his injured eye (which Lin Ling had broken). Lin Ling struggled, ordering him not to touch her.

She confessed that she constantly thought of how to kill him to avenge the Lin family, regretting that the hairpin she once used didn't strike his heart. Yan Shifan remained unfazed, asserting he didn't want to kill her and believed she would eventually willingly be with him. Lin Ling scoffed at the idea. Yan Shifan then revealed he knew she was searching for someone, her elder sister's daughter, and claimed he knew where she was.

Lin Ling, agitated, demanded to know her location. Yan Shifan said he would take her to her now. Outside the house, Mr. Beggar lunged towards Yan Shifan, and the others rushed forward to help him. Yuan Jinxia aimed her hand cannon at Yan Shifan, who used Lin Ling as a shield. Lu Yi instructed Yuan Jinxia to put down her weapon and pulled Mr. Beggar back.

Addressing Yan Shifan, Lu Yi explained he was there to rescue Lin Ling, who had once saved his life and whose eye he admired. Yan Shifan called Lu Yi bold for blocking the way and trying to kill a court official. Lu Yi retorted that Yan Shifan was also bold, being the first court official to collude with pirates.

He pointed out that Dong Qisheng had long pledged allegiance to Mao Haifeng, and Yan Shifan's ease in taking Lin Ling suggested a close connection. When Yan Shifan asked for proof, Lu Yi accused him of pretending to be Sima Chang'an to open private mines and collude with the enemy. Lu Yi declared he must take Lin Ling with him.

Recognizing he was outnumbered and wouldn't gain anything from a fight, Yan Shifan yielded, telling them to take good care of Lin Ling. Before leaving, he leaned in and whispered to Lin Ling to consider what he had just told her, inviting her to come to him anytime, and then kissed her cheek, enraging Mr. Beggar, who almost attacked again. As Yuan Jinxia attempted to move, her leg injury caused her to collapse.

She complained of the pain and her inability to walk, begging Lu Yi to carry her, referencing a past incident where he left her on horseback. Yuan Jinxia quickly assured him she wasn't lying. Lu Yi then threw his sword to Cen Fu and carried Yuan Jinxia away. Yang Chengwan sighed deeply upon seeing this.

In the palace, Lan Qingxuan accompanied the Emperor when Grand Secretary Yan Song, Vice Secretary Xu, and Minister of Revenue Liao Wenhua, along with imperial censors, requested an audience to discuss the impeachment of Wu Shouxu. They reported that 10,000 "dan" of army rations, overseen by Director-General Wu Shouxu in Zhejiang, had been destroyed. Generals from Zhejiang, Fujian, and Huguang jointly impeached Wu Shouxu for failing to protect the rations.

Liao Wenhua added that Wu Shouxu had used military funds for lobbying, giving gold and silk to Xu Hai to entice Wang Zhi, without success, causing public discontent. Yan Song then stated that if there was no good news from Wu Shouxu, it would cause public confusion. Surprisingly, despite nominating Wu Shouxu, Yan Song agreed he should be strictly punished for his incapacity. Back at the official inn, Lu Yi carried Yuan Jinxia.

Lin Ling examined Yuan Jinxia’s swollen leg and instructed her to apply medicinal herbs daily and avoid moving for several days. Yuan Jinxia complained this was worse than death. Yuan Jinxia then expressed her anger at Dong Qisheng, questioning why he kidnapped Lin Ling. Lin Ling explained that Dong Qisheng intended to give her to Mao Haifeng because of her medical skills.

Yuan Jinxia condemned Dong Qisheng as an unbelievable "desperado" who had colluded with pirates, and in a fit of rage, she almost re-injured her leg. Lu Yi, feeling distressed, stopped her from moving too much. Cen Fu brought imperial ointment for her wound, which promoted blood circulation. Lu Yi offered to apply it for her. Yuan Jinxia initially refused, saying she could do it herself, remembering Mr. Beggar, Lin Ling, and Yang Chengwan were nearby.

Lu Yi then excused Yang Chengwan, Lin Ling, and Mr. Beggar, directing Cen Fu to bring food to their rooms so they could rest. He then subtly dismissed Cen Fu as well. Lu Yi gently applied the medicine to Yuan Jinxia’s leg. Yang Chengwan secretly watched from outside, feeling a bit angry. Yuan Jinxia remarked that being wounded didn’t feel so bad when he applied the medicine.

Meanwhile, Yan Feng suggested to Yan Shifan that they eliminate Zhai Lanye, as she was becoming disobedient. Yan Shifan decided to keep her, believing she was still useful. However, he admitted that Lu Yi and the little constable (Yuan Jinxia) were becoming increasingly annoying and that they could use Chunyu Min for their plans against Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia. Separately, in the court, imperial censors jointly impeached Liao Wenhua.

Vice Secretary Xu noted that the Emperor's favor for Liao Wenhua was waning, seeing an opportunity to disrupt Yan Song's clique. He sought Lan Qingxuan's cooperation for "hot pursuit" on Liao Wenhua. Elsewhere, Yan Feng found Chunyu Min hidden in a remote Taoist temple. He informed her that Yan Shifan had sent him with a message: if she wanted to live, she must quickly kill Yuan Jinxia.

Later, Yang Chengwan confronted Yuan Jinxia, asking about her relationship with Lu Yi and observing their "weird" behavior. Yuan Jinxia, feeling helpless, admitted that Lu Yi wanted to marry her. As Yuan Jinxia secretly smiled, Yang Chengwan immediately poured cold water on her, questioning what merits she possessed to attract someone of Lu Yi's standing.

He emphasized the vast difference in their social status: Lu Yi's family had held official positions for generations, while Yuan Jinxia’s mother was merely a tofu seller. He stressed the importance of an "appropriate match" in marriage, stating that even if Lu Yi accepted her, Lu Ting (Lu Yi’s father) would not.

Yang Chengwan sternly ordered Yuan Jinxia to stay away from Lu Yi, threatening to send her back to the capital and have her mother arrange a marriage for her if he saw them being close again. Yuan Jinxia was visibly disturbed, left to ponder if she and Lu Yi were truly "not suitable." Lin Ling, alone with Mr. Beggar, wondered if Yan Shifan had been truthful about knowing her sister’s daughter’s whereabouts.

Mr. Beggar cautioned her not to trust him, calling Yan Shifan full of "devilish tricks" and capable of anything. Lin Ling mused about Yan Shifan's influence possibly helping him find her. However, Mr. Beggar reminded her that despite his power, Yan Shifan couldn’t find her when she hid in the Maple Col, where she used snakes to cover her tracks. He urged her to be wise and not fall into Yan Shifan’s trap.

Lu Yi received a letter from Lan Qingxuan, learning that Yan Song’s clique was impeaching Yu Dayong for his inability to defeat the pirates, leading the Emperor to suspect Yu Dayong of colluding with the enemy. Lu Yi expected to receive a secret letter from the Emperor soon.

He believed Yu Dayong was not affiliated with any clique, only focused on the war, and cited how Yu Dayong had been demoted despite victories due to false affiliations, suffering demotion in victory and taking blame for others in defeat. Lu Yi worried that the destruction of army rations would make it even harder to defeat Mao Haifeng.

He then met with Chunyu Min, his only relative, seeking her help with the army’s severe shortage of provisions and rations for General Yu. Chunyu Min agreed to donate all the Chunyu family’s properties, including warhorses and army rations, to resolve the emergency. She also presumptuously requested to leave the Taoist temple and return to the capital, stating she couldn’t hide there her entire life.

Lu Yi agreed, promising to have Cen Fu take her to the courier station first to stay for a few days before entering the capital. Later, Lu Yi visited Yuan Jinxia, whose leg was still injured. Remembering Yang Chengwan’s words, Yuan Jinxia pulled away from Lu Yi, apologizing for "ignoring who I am." Lu Yi pressed her to explain what was wrong. Yuan Jinxia asked if his proposal to marry her was serious, emphasizing that marriage was not a game.

She pointed out their vast differences in knowledge, martial arts skills, and family background, fearing that even if he accepted her, Lu Ting would not. She expressed that while she would be happy to marry him, she would "accept my fate" if it wasn’t possible. Lu Yi firmly declared that he, Lu Yi, only wanted to marry her for this lifetime.

He told Yuan Jinxia to remember that she had him, whatever happened, and she didn't need to worry about anything else. Her "puzzles were solved," and she smiled. Lu Yi then informed her that he had agreed for Chunyu Min to return to the capital and that Cen Fu would take her to the courier station. Yuan Jinxia commented that Chunyu Min was his relative, so he didn’t need to ask for her opinion.

Lu Yi stated that as his "future wife," he had to report everything to her to avoid any misunderstandings. Yuan Jinxia admitted that Chunyu Min had "set me up once" and she wouldn’t "care for her," but promised not to "start a fight" with her. Lu Yi expressed his satisfaction, praising her magnanimity. Wu Shouxu was troubled by the army provisions issue, fearing he would be charged with negligence, as soldiers were demoralized without food.

His assistant reminded him that "you'd never know if rescue comes when you're in desperation." Just then, Lu Yi arrived. Wu Shouxu thanked him for visiting. Lu Yi shared the good news: his cousin, Chunyu Min, whose family had been murdered, had agreed to donate all the Chunyu family’s warhorses and army rations to resolve Wu Shouxu’s emergency. Wu Shouxu was immensely grateful, calling it a "tremendous help."

Lu Yi clarified that the donation was "not for the sake of you, but for our people and empire." Lu Yi then requested permission to inspect the army to understand the pirate situation and report to the court. Wu Shouxu agreed, suggesting Lu Yi accompany a group of soldiers trained by Assistant Commander Qi Weigang, who were about to rush into Cen Harbor as reinforcement for Yu Dayong the next morning.

Yan Shifan received a letter from his father, Yan Song, informing him that Priest Lan was currently holding power in the court and the Emperor depended heavily on him, urging Yan Shifan to return to the capital quickly. Yan Shifan dismissed the urgency, believing the Emperor’s dependence on Taoists was temporary. He replied to his father that he must finish his current work before returning. Zhai Lanye then informed Yan Shifan that Mao Haifeng had repeatedly requested a meeting.

Yan Shifan decided to go to Mao Haifeng himself and instructed Zhai Lanye to accompany him. Yuan Jinxia expressed sadness that Lu Yi was leaving for the army tomorrow, unable to join him due to her leg injury. Lin Ling then informed Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi that she and Mr. Beggar had decided to leave Hangzhou because Yan Shifan had discovered her location, and she wished to continue her search for her sister’s daughter.

Lu Yi suggested that Lin Ling join him at the army camp to treat the many wounded warriors, as there was a severe shortage of paramedics. Lin Ling readily agreed, pleased that her abilities could be of use. Mr. Beggar also volunteered, stating he needed to protect Lin Ling. Yang Chengwan offered to go as well.

Yuan Jinxia wanted to join them, but Lu Yi gently told her to rest at the inn, explaining that they would have to divert attention to her if she came along. Yuan Jinxia reluctantly agreed to wait for their return. Lu Yi then outlined the plan: he and Cen Fu, along with General Qi’s army, would transport army rations first thing tomorrow, and the other three could follow once they were ready.

In the palace, Lan Qingxuan interpreted a unique horse-tailed cloud for the Emperor, stating its red and purple colors, increasing size, and southeastern charge symbolized "the encounter of heroes," forecasting a "big turn of the table" and a "good sign" for the battle in the southeast, all attributed to the Emperor’s merit. The Emperor felt his worries disappear. He then noticed a new mansion. Li Fang, his aide, identified it as Liao Wenhua’s new residence.

The Emperor expressed annoyance that Liao Wenhua could build such a mansion in less than half a year, while his own new pavilion in Western Garden had been under construction for a year and still wasn’t complete. He commented on the mansion's good "feng shui".

Episode 40 Recap

After deciding to head to the military camp, Lu Yi departs. Yuan Jinxia and Min'er see him off at the courier station. Before Yuan Jinxia can say much, Lu Yi walks away, then suddenly turns back, embraces her, and whispers for her to "wait for me." As Lu Yi rides off, Yuan Jinxia is filled with reluctance, while Min'er watches on, consumed by jealousy.

Prior to Lu Yi's arrival at the military camp, General Qi is informed of a recent military loss at Cen Harbor. He notes that despite superior numbers, their army failed to defeat Mao Haifeng's forces, which numbered less than a thousand men besieged in the harbor. The terrain of Cen Harbor is described as dangerous, with winding ridges, rough roads, and numerous cols, making it easy to defend but hard to conquer.

All entrances are blocked by pirates except for one perilous route. General Qi questions why General Yu Dayong, familiar with such terrain, risked attacking, learning that General Yu initially underestimated Mao Haifeng but was repeatedly repelled in both land and naval battles. Upon arriving at the military camp, Lu Yi and Cen Fu are initially stopped by a young soldier, who states no outsiders are allowed.

Lu Yi identifies himself as an assistant of the Embroidered Uniform Guards with urgent matters for General Yu. General Qi intervenes, confirming Mr. Wu Shouxu's order for Lu Yi and Cen Fu to be brought there, overriding the soldier's resistance. Cen Fu grumbles about the difference between army life and official circles, which Lu Yi advises him to get used to. They wait about two hours before General Yu Dayong receives them.

General Yu, upon hearing Lu Yi's name and lineage, expresses disdain for the "troublemakers" from the capital. However, upon Lu Yi presenting a letter, General Yu's attitude immediately changes. He instructs Xiang to take Lu Yi to get a meal and settle in, promising to meet after he finishes his military duties. At their meal, Cen Fu finds the simple military fare unpalatable, expressing concern that Lu Yi, accustomed to a luxurious life, cannot possibly eat such food.

Lu Yi, however, readily accepts the meal, pointing out it is similar to what common soldiers eat. Xiang, the soldier assigned to them, shares his pride in being valued by General Yu, despite being only fourteen, and expresses his desire to follow the General in fighting pirates, rejecting suggestions of joining the Firearms Division. Lu Yi comments to Cen Fu that General Yu's bluntness with them indicates he treats everyone similarly.

He suggests that if Yu Dayong were a more tactful person, he wouldn't have faced so many setbacks in official circles, concluding that his continued leadership must stem from genuine skill. Meanwhile, Yang Yue travels under the scorching sun, determined to find Shangguan Xi. He inquires about Cen Harbor's location from passing villagers and learns that Shangguan Xi has indeed gone there with monks from the Southern Shaolin Temple.

Gai Shu, Lin Ling, and Yang Chengwan are traveling towards the military camp when they are ambushed by pirates. Yang Chengwan, prioritizing Lin Ling's safety due to her lack of martial arts skills, instructs Gai Shu to protect her while he confronts the pirates alone. During the skirmish, Yang Chengwan sustains a sword wound to his abdomen. Coincidentally, Yang Yue, who has made his way to Cen Harbor, arrives and helps to drive back the pirates.

At the same time, Xie Xiao, Shangguan Xi, and their fellow monks from the Southern Shaolin Temple, hearing the sounds of battle, also rush to assist, quickly dispatching the remaining pirates. Following the skirmish, Shangguan Xi diligently tends to the wounded monks, while Lin Ling examines Yang Chengwan's injury, thankfully confirming that no internal organs were harmed.

Given Yang Chengwan's injury, Lin Ling and Gai Shu insist that Yang Yue return home with his father to recuperate, advising him against going to the battlefield. Reluctant to leave, Yang Yue pulls Shangguan Xi aside and confesses his regret for his past behavior, admitting he regretted saying he would never see her, refusing her care, and being cold to her.

As Shangguan Xi attempts to leave his stammering, he embraces her, declaring his intention to protect her and never be separated from her again. Lin Ling later assures Yang Yue that the scar on his face will disappear after a few more treatments, restoring his former appearance. Overjoyed, Yang Yue immediately asks Yang Chengwan for permission to propose marriage to Shangguan Xi once the current conflict is resolved, a request Yang Chengwan happily grants.

As Xie Xiao prepares his group to continue their journey, instructing the seriously injured monks to stay behind, Yang Chengwan remarks on Xie Xiao's growing resemblance to a sect leader, just like his father. Yang Yue bids a heartfelt farewell to Shangguan Xi, asking her to be careful and wait for their wedding.

Back at the camp, Lu Yi reviews military files, noting the complex terrain of Cen Harbor and how it favors the pirates, making the ongoing battle exceptionally difficult. He stays up all night analyzing the situation, observing that Mao Haifeng's seemingly desperate stand actually puts Mao Haifeng at a disadvantage.

Lu Yi speculates that while General Yu, being skilled, must realize frontal assaults are costly, there seem to be no other options, and even sea attacks are difficult against the cunning pirates who refuse to leave the port. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia thinks of Lu Yi, wondering if he is well and if anyone is troubling him. She remembers his parting words to "wait for me" and realizes she hasn't explicitly responded. She decides to write him a letter.

Lu Yi continues his nocturnal study. In the morning, General Yu, seeing Lu Yi still at work, expresses his belief that Lu Yi is there to investigate rumors of collusion between officials and pirates, warning that the presence of the Embroidered Uniform Guards could undermine morale. Lu Yi clarifies that he is there merely to offer his assistance.

Their discussion is interrupted by the arrival of an imperial edict, ordering General Yu to conquer Cen Harbor within a month or face dismissal and investigation. Lu Yi uses this opportunity to explain his true purpose: to prove that the failure to capture Cen Harbor is due to objective reasons, not collusion, and to caution General Yu that Mr. Wu Shouxu may be setting him up to take the blame.

Though skeptical, General Yu agrees to Lu Yi's request to inspect the armory, arranging for Xiang to guide him. Elsewhere, Mr. Mao pressures Yan Shifan to eliminate Lu Yi, whose interference is disrupting their business. Mr. Mao then urges Yan Shifan to use his influence in court to remove General Yu, which would allow Mr. Mao to seize full control of Cen Harbor for their marine trade with Japan.

Yan Shifan, however, refuses to be directly involved in treason or to act as the primary aggressor against the government, preferring to manipulate from behind the scenes, explaining his ambition to control others rather than lead. After much negotiation, Yan Shifan promises to ensure General Yu has no chance of a comeback in court, provided Mr. Mao can defeat him militarily. Mr. Mao agrees, adding Mr. Wu Shouxu to the list of targets.

Before leaving, Yan Shifan presents Di Lanye as a "gift" to Mr. Mao, instructing her to serve him well and warning her of severe consequences if Mr. Mao loses the battle. Yan Shifan's servant later observes that Di Lanye's transfer to Mr. Mao is punishment for her past failure to capture Lin Ling. Lu Yi receives a letter from Yuan Jinxia containing only three words: "I'll be waiting." He smiles softly and puts it away.

Accompanied by Xiang, Lu Yi inspects the armory, which Xiang proudly calls General Yu's "treasures," noting that Lu Yi is being treated as an honored guest. Xiang explains the army's rigorous maintenance of firearms and the heavy guarding of the powder magazine. Lu Yi inquires about General Yu's naval attacks, learning of several failed attempts where ships were trapped and sunk due to Cen Harbor's deep but narrow ports.

Xiang describes the limited effectiveness of their long-range ejectors, which can only burn sails but not defeat enemy ships. He explains that the pirates are too cunning to be drawn out of the port, forcing General Yu to resort to land attacks despite heavy losses and meager government allowances that prevent rebuilding warships or acquiring more artillery. Xiang laments General Yu's heavy burden, facing dismissal from the Emperor without resources for either sea or land warfare.

Late that night, Min'er secretly enters Yuan Jinxia's room intending to kill her. Yuan Jinxia confronts her, expressing her disappointment that despite her past kindness, Min'er seeks her life. Min'er bitterly blames Yuan Jinxia for ruining her entire life, convinced that if Yuan Jinxia had not disguised herself as a man and saved her, she would not have developed feelings for her, and if Yuan Jinxia and Lu Yi had not fallen in love, she would not have been envious.

Min'er further laments that if she had not married Sima Chang'an, her life would have been different. Yuan Jinxia, speechless at Min'er's distorted reasoning, questions if Min'er truly loved Lu Yi or if her hatred for Yuan Jinxia simply drove her to prevent Yuan Jinxia's happiness. Yuan Jinxia points out Min'er's past attempts to frame her, and now trying to kill her.

Yuan Jinxia then picks up Min'er's knife, immediately recognizing it as a weapon typically carried by martial artists for emergencies, not something Min'er would possess. She urgently demands to know who gave it to Min'er.

Episode 41 Recap

Yuan Jinxia confronted Min'er, questioning her about the knife she carried, which appeared to be used for Kungfu. Min'er confessed the knife was given to her by Yan Shifan. Yuan Jinxia explained that if Yan Shifan truly wanted to kill her, he could have hired any assassin; instead, he chose Min'er, who knew nothing of Kungfu.

Yuan Jinxia deduced that Yan Shifan's real motive was to use Min'er, Lu Yi's cousin, to distract him in the military camp, knowing that if Lu Yi left without permission, he would be seen as defying His Majesty's order. Min'er, however, defiantly declared that as long as she could survive, she would kill anyone she was ordered to, even her own cousin.

Yuan Jinxia slapped Min'er, reminding her that Lu Yi was her only remaining relative and had always treated her with kindness, even after she had set Yuan Jinxia up to marry Sima Chang'an and found Min'er a place to stay when her family was in trouble. Yuan Jinxia offered to pretend nothing happened, but warned Min'er to seriously consider her future and urged her to take control of her own fate.

She also cautioned Min'er that if she tried to kill her again, Yuan Jinxia would not show mercy. In the military camp, Lu Yi presented his findings from studying war operation files for the past six months, noting the Cen Harbor's geographic advantages and the low ammunition consumption in recent battles. He concluded that the remaining ammunition couldn't sustain Mao Haifeng's forces for much longer, suggesting a secret passage for supplies.

General Yu Dajong confirmed that he had previously suspected a secret passage in the mountains when he encountered Mao Haifeng in Yangzhou. General Yu explained that upon his arrival in Zhoushan, he had already set up barriers to cut off supply routes, blocking all land routes and controlling all possible sea ports.

General Qi suggested a tactic to feign low morale by sending small groups of soldiers to confront the enemy daily while the main army remained put, hoping to trick Mao Haifeng into dropping his guard. General Yu expressed concern about His Majesty's impatience and the risk of being reported, which could lead to investigation or losing his job.

Lu Yi reassured him, promising to report the truth to His Majesty upon his return to the Capital and emphasizing that he had no intention of badmouthing anyone, especially since they had no prior conflicts and were united against a common enemy for the sake of the citizens. General Yu appreciated Lu Yi's sentiment, stating it would motivate him and General Qi further. Meanwhile, Yang Yue brought a wounded Yang Chengwan back to the inn where Yuan Jinxia was staying.

Yang Chengwan had been stabbed by Japanese pirates on the way, but Aunt Lin had confirmed the wound was not fatal. Yuan Jinxia was deeply worried, having learned that Yang Chengwan had locked himself in his room without eating or drinking after she had left. She apologized profusely to her master. Taking Yang Yue aside, Yuan Jinxia lightly struck him, explaining that she was punishing him on Yang Chengwan's behalf since her master had not.

Yang Yue accepted the blows, and Yuan Jinxia noticed his facial scar was fading, which Aunt Lin had promised would completely disappear. Yuan Jinxia then took Lin Ling's prescription to buy herbs for Yang Chengwan, offering Yang Yue a chance to rest. On her way, Yuan Jinxia spotted a familiar face: Wang Mazi, a known pirate. She discreetly followed him, observing him buying flaky pastries.

Yuan Jinxia asked a vendor for directions and learned that Wang Mazi's path led to the Qingbo River. She also inquired about the local fish market, learning it opened very early in the morning, before 5 AM. Noticing Wang Mazi was carrying a rattle-drum, Yuan Jinxia deduced that he might be living with his wife and children.

At the military camp, Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao arrived, introducing themselves as disciples of the Southern Shaolin Monastery, sent by their master to aid in the fight against Japanese pirates. General Yu expressed his gratitude. Following them were Gai Shu and Lin Ling, who introduced themselves as doctors from the Pharma King Valley, offering their services to treat the wounded soldiers. General Yu welcomed them warmly and immediately directed them to the injured.

Back in the strategy meeting, Xie Xiao, despite his companions discussing land-based tactics, boasted about his swimming abilities, claiming to be unmatched. He proposed a dangerous plan, suggesting they modify a ship with mines below its deck, turning it into a "super bomb." He recalled that he had made the "ghost ship" Lu Yi encountered near Yangzhou, which used magnets to pull other ships off course.

His idea was to lure the enemy's ships out of the harbor and detonate the mines at striking distance, destroying their fleet. Shangguan Xi and General Yu expressed strong reservations, citing the danger and the risk of losing a valuable ship. They questioned what would happen if the Japanese didn't take the bait or if the mines were ignited at the wrong time. However, Lu Yi found the plan feasible.

He proposed combining it with their original tactic of feigning surrender to lower the Japanese's guard. He believed that when suspicious ships approached, the Japanese would inevitably send out their entire fleet to investigate, providing the perfect moment for detonation. The challenge was the lack of ignitable underwater mines. Lu Yi suggested putting dynamite in the cabin, and when General Yu noted the igniter would have no escape, Lu Yi declared he would handle the mines himself.

Xie Xiao agreed to renovate the ship within ten days, but Lu Yi pressed him to complete it in three days, given the urgent situation. General Qi offered his expertise in incendiary weapons to help Lu Yi create more powerful mines. Lu Yi accepted, assigning General Qi to assist with the mines and Xie Xiao to focus on ship modification.

Back at the inn, Yuan Jinxia rushed to Yang Yue, revealing her encounter with Wang Mazi and her conviction that he was a pirate, recalling their previous meetings in Longdan Village and a hidden pirate village where Wu Shouxu's foster son's body was investigated. Yang Yue suggested reporting it to Mr. Wu, but Yuan Jinxia hesitated, fearing Mr. Wu wouldn't believe them without evidence. She suggested they first discover Wang Mazi's true purpose in Hangzhou.

She explained her deduction that Wang Mazi likely frequented the fish market based on his pungent fish smell and scales on his shoes, and that his rattle-drum indicated he lived with his wife and children. She speculated he was purposefully hiding. Meanwhile, at the military camp, Lin Ling observed Gai Shu treating injured soldiers, remarking on how much he had changed from his past, when he was obsessed with studying poisons.

Gai Shu admitted that his past mischievous behavior was partly due to his youth and mostly to vex Lin Ling. Now, he only wished for her safety and peace. He revealed he had been worried about her every day since she left Maple Col, fearing she would be caught by Yan Shifan. Lin Ling, however, sighed, lamenting that despite her narrow escapes from Yan Shifan, she still hadn't found her sister's daughter, a burden on her heart.

Gai Shu promised to help her search for her niece after the war. Yuan Jinxia followed Wang Mazi to his residence, confirming he lived with his wife and child. That night, Yuan Jinxia, dressed in black, stealthily blew narcotic powder into Wang Mazi's home, then entered to search. She found a recently repainted, damp wall, deducing a hidden compartment by the bed for its confidential contents. Inside, she discovered a large trunk filled with gunpowder.

Separately, Yang Yue, disguised as a fisherman, shadowed Wang Mazi. Yang Yue was initially given narcotic powder by Yuan Jinxia as a last resort if he was in danger. He observed that Wang Mazi did not seem interested in fishing throughout the night. Just before dawn, a boat from the opposite bank approached, with its owner waving a lit lamp in a circle. Wang Mazi responded by doing the same with his own lamp before the boat departed.

Yang Yue, though initially confused by this secret signal, pretended not to notice. Yuan Jinxia, upon hearing Yang Yue's report, remained perplexed by the meaning of the lamp signal. At the shipyard, Xie Xiao worked diligently on modifying the ship while Lu Yi watched intently, much to Xie Xiao's annoyance. Xie Xiao complained about Lu Yi's hovering, urging him to either help or leave.

Lu Yi responded by inquiring about the progress of Xie Xiao's ship modifications and even the underwater mines, prompting Xie Xiao to retort that Lu Yi should focus on his own task. The next morning, Yang Yue and Yuan Jinxia observed Wang Mazi exchanging signals and supervising the delivery of a large trunk, which Yuan Jinxia recognized as the one filled with ammunition she had discovered in his house.

Yang Yue impulsively wanted to apprehend them immediately, but Yuan Jinxia calmly stopped him, emphasizing that they were outnumbered and needed to use their wits. Elsewhere, a scout reported to General Yu Dajong that a group of 400 to 500 pirates was approaching the Cen Harbor, expected to arrive in five days. General Yu recognized this as the Japanese growing impatient, aiming for a decisive, multi-pronged attack.

Lu Yi saw this as an opportunity, but the imminent arrival of reinforcements meant Xie Xiao's three-day deadline for the ship modification was crucial. Shangguan Xi stepped in, promising to help Xie Xiao ensure the ship was completed within that timeframe. Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue watched Wang Mazi leave his home. Yuan Jinxia declared her new target was Wang Mazi's wife, a decision Yang Yue found problematic as it violated Department Six's rules against harming criminals' families.

Yuan Jinxia admitted it was "not quite above board" but justified it as a necessary measure given the exceptional circumstances. They then entered Wang Mazi's home, identifying themselves as constables from Department Six and stating they had received an anonymous report about hidden ammunition. However, Wang Mazi's wife, who turned out to be Japanese, claimed not to understand them. Yuan Jinxia then forced her way into a hidden room.

Inside, she initially found boxes containing only toys and clothes, but upon forcing Wang Mazi's wife away from another trunk she was protecting, Yuan Jinxia discovered it indeed contained firearms. Later, Mao Haifeng received news that the Ming army had launched an attack but had suddenly retreated mid-battle. He decided against pursuing them, asserting that they must learn to be patient and wait until they were 100% ready for a surprise attack.

He ordered Wang Mazi to ensure everything was sorted out and ready for his command. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue sought out Mr. Wu, only to be informed by his servant that he had left for the Cen Harbor after receiving an Imperial Edict. The servant, however, mentioned that Mrs. Qi, General Qi's wife, could speak Japanese. Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue immediately went to Mrs. Qi's residence, greeted by a serious maid.

Yuan Jinxia complimented General Qi's battle formations, noting that Lu Yi had spoken highly of them. General Yu Dajong and Lu Yi later discussed a new Imperial Edict from His Majesty, which stripped Wu Shouxu and Yu Dajong of their titles but offered a chance for redemption if they could win the battle for the Cen Harbor. Lu Yi showed General Yu the large quantities of gunpowder and mines they had prepared.

Xie Xiao, trying to interfere with the mines, was quickly pulled away by Shangguan Xi, who warned him of the danger. Back at Mrs. Qi's home, Mrs. Qi interrogated Wang Mazi's wife, who maintained that her husband was a fisherman and claimed complete ignorance about the weapons, only knowing that her husband had brought the wooden trunk home a few days prior and told her not to touch it. She pleaded to be allowed to leave with her child.

Yuan Jinxia, seeing her distress, allowed her to rest with her child. Mrs. Qi then explained to Yuan Jinxia that it was a Japanese tradition for a woman not to question her husband's business.

Episode 42 Recap

Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue debated the fate of the Japanese mother and child they were holding. Yuan Jinxia mused that the Embroidered Uniform Guards would not simply release them. Yang Yue agreed, concluding that keeping them might prove useful later on. Meanwhile, Chief Mao boasted to his men, including Dong Qisheng, about how Yan Shifan had gifted him Zhai Lanye, even after Zhou Xianyi had offered 10,000 taels of silver for her.

He reveled in the fact that he hadn't spent a single tael. When asked about the scars on Zhai Lanye's face, Chief Mao callously remarked that she enjoyed playing hard to get, which made their interactions more thrilling. Zhai Lanye, seething with hatred, threatened to kill him. In response, Chief Mao publicly humiliated her, threatening to allow his men to "experience" her if she didn't obey. His men praised his prowess.

Chief Mao then turned to strategy, acknowledging that Qi Weigang and the Shaolin Monastery disciples had come to Yu Dayong's aid. He noted that 500 reinforcement soldiers were expected to arrive in three days, which would distract Wu Shouxu and prevent him from effectively attacking Cen Harbor. Yu Dayong assembled his forces, declaring that the sea attack would commence the following day, led by the ghost ship.

Shangguan Xi was tasked with leading the Shaolin disciples in a surprise land attack on the Japanese pirates guarding Cen Harbor, and she readily accepted. General Qi, meanwhile, planned to attack Chief Mao's lair from behind the mountain with the Crouching Tiger Cannon. Xie Xiao volunteered to pilot the ghost ship, asserting his expertise in its construction. Lu Yi, who had designed the mines, insisted on accompanying him to ensure their proper ignition.

Yu Dayong hesitated, citing their lack of battlefield experience and the inherent dangers, particularly given Lu Yi's noble status. Xie Xiao countered that his extensive experience in Jianghu had prepared him for any challenge, even teasing Lu Yi about his supposed inability to swim. Lu Yi remained firm, emphasizing the unique nature of his mines, which would be rendered useless if their fuses got wet.

He further challenged Yu Dayong, questioning why other soldiers could go to battle but he could not, implying disrespect not only to himself but also to his father. He promised to write a letter to his father, Lu Ting, absolving anyone of responsibility should anything happen to him. Faced with their unwavering resolve, Yu Dayong and Wu Shouxu reluctantly agreed to their participation.

Later, Yang Yue was seen gently assisting his father, Yang Chengwan, on a walk, expressing regret for his past impulsiveness and the worry he had caused. Yang Chengwan reassured him, simply wishing for the safety of both Yang Yue and his master. Meanwhile, Wang Mazi returned home to find a note from Yuan Jinxia, instructing him to come alone to the Tavern for Officers in Hangzhou if he wished to save his wife and child.

Under the cover of darkness, Wang Mazi covertly made his way to the tavern, only to be apprehended by Yang Yue's men and brought before Yuan Jinxia and Mrs. Qi. Wang Mazi attempted to mislead them, claiming he was merely an illegal arms dealer trying to survive amidst the conflict in Zhoushan. Yuan Jinxia, however, saw through his lies, noting that a single gun would have been sufficient for his family's needs, not a large arsenal.

She then strategically used his wife's concern for him to break his resolve. Wang Mazi, relenting, begged for his family's release in exchange for the truth. Mrs. Qi promised their safety, and Wang Mazi confessed that Chief Mao had ordered him to remain in Hangzhou, organizing spies to cooperate with the Japanese pirates in seizing the city. He revealed that 500 Japanese pirates were involved, along with 30 spies in Hangzhou, and the attack was planned for three days later.

Mrs. Qi, having obtained the information, ordered Wang Mazi to be held until after the battle, reiterating her promise of his family's release then. Yuan Jinxia pondered whether to call for reinforcements, but Mrs. Qi dismissed the idea, asserting it was likely a trap set by the Japanese pirates to divert their forces from Cen Harbor. She acknowledged the city's limited defenses, with most residents being women, children, and the elderly.

Despite the overwhelming odds, Mrs. Qi declared her intention to defend Hangzhou herself, preferring death to the residents being taken hostage. Inspired by her unwavering courage, Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue pledged their full support in defending the city. Mrs. Qi expressed her gratitude for their commitment, and they immediately began preparations, closing the city gates.

Before embarking on their mission, Lu Yi handed Cen Fu a letter addressed to his father, Lu Ting, to be delivered only if he did not return. He then entrusted Shangguan Xi's safety to Yu Dayong. As Lu Yi and Xie Xiao set out, Japanese pirates spotted their approaching decoy ship and went on high alert. The duo successfully lured a Japanese ship out of the harbor.

As the pirates cautiously approached the seemingly empty vessel, Lu Yi and Xie Xiao swiftly planted mines, lit the fuses, and submerged themselves, swimming away. Moments later, the decoy ship detonated and exploded. Witnessing this, the remaining Japanese pirates entered battle readiness, and their main battle ship left the harbor. Now tasked with destroying all the Japanese ships, Lu Yi and Xie Xiao split up to plant additional mines.

During this process, Xie Xiao was spotted by Japanese pirates and quickly submerged, but was unfortunately shot in the leg. Lu Yi, hearing the commotion, immediately came to his aid, attempting to lead him to safety as the mines were on the verge of detonating. Xie Xiao, in an act of self-sacrifice, pushed Lu Yi away, but Lu Yi insisted on turning back to desperately pull him to safety. Despite Xie Xiao's injury, they managed to escape.

Witnessing the multiple explosions, Yu Dayong ordered his forces to launch their attack. In Hangzhou, Mrs. Qi ordered a city-wide announcement for all men under sixty to gather at the east gate by 11 p. m. , warning that failure to comply would result in punishment as a spy. Though household weapons were collected, she noted their insufficiency.

A scout's message confirmed Japanese pirates were within twenty kilometers of Hangzhou and expected to arrive after midnight, much sooner than Wang Mazi had indicated. Mrs. Qi deduced that a spy must have escaped and warned Chief Mao, forcing him to accelerate his plans. She recounted how the elderly and weak had refused to evacuate the city the previous night, determined to stay and defend.

Realizing their forces were no match for the enemy, Mrs. Qi planned a bluff: if enough "soldiers" were visible on the city walls, the Japanese pirates, unaware of Hangzhou's true strength due to the captured spies, might hesitate to attack without careful consideration. Still in need of weapons, Mrs. Qi, accompanied by Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue, proceeded to the armory.

Mr. Nie, who guarded the armory, staunchly refused to open it without the general's badge, citing General Qi's strict orders. Mrs. Qi insisted on the urgency, taking full responsibility, but Mr. Nie remained unyielding, even casting suspicion on Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue. Frustrated, Mrs. Qi slapped him, declaring that she would face any military punishment upon General Qi's return. Yuan Jinxia, witnessing Mrs. Qi's decisive action, expressed her profound admiration.

Mrs. Qi persuaded Mr. Nie that guarding an empty armory was meaningless if the city fell, leading him to finally agree to join the defense. Meanwhile, Chief Mao was furious upon learning that all his ships in Cen Harbor had been burned and the Ming army, led by Wu Shouxu, had occupied the harbor. Further reports indicated a large Ming troop, led by Qi Weigang, was advancing from behind the mountain.

Advised by his men to retreat, Chief Mao asked about his 500 reinforcements, learning they would only reach Hangzhou in two days. He then ordered his lair burned and fled with Zhai Lanye, vowing to burn Yu Dayong's city in retaliation. Yan Shifan received intelligence that Lu Yi had aided Yu Dayong in developing the mines that destroyed the ships, which displeased him greatly.

He also learned of Qi Weigang's successful attack on Chief Mao's lair, forcing Chief Mao to burn his own stronghold and escape. Yan Shifan noted that Chief Mao's grudge against Wu Shouxu would undoubtedly deepen. Dong Qisheng, now just ten kilometers from Hangzhou and a day ahead of schedule, ordered his forces to rest before launching their attack. He dispatched two scouts to assess the situation in Hangzhou.

Back in Hangzhou, Mrs. Qi maintained her vigilant watch on the city walls, hoping to prolong the standoff until General Qi could return. Min'er, Yuan Jinxia's younger friend, appeared on the wall, causing Yuan Jinxia surprise. Min'er denied being there to defend, claiming it was safer in numbers. Yuan Jinxia, however, advised her to find a hidden place to shelter if the city was breached.

Dong Qisheng's scouts returned, reporting that about fifty well-armed soldiers were visible on Hangzhou's city walls. Dong Qisheng was skeptical, finding it impossible that so many well-armed soldiers remained within the city. He pondered if Hangzhou had discovered their plan and secretly sent soldiers back through a hidden passage, or if Wang Mazi had betrayed them, given his lack of communication.

Despite hearing that Qi Weigang's wife was fierce, Dong Qisheng scoffed at the idea of a woman leading the defense. He resolved to send 200 men the next morning to launch an attack and probe the city's true strength. Simultaneously, Yu Dayong received news that all surviving Japanese pirates in Cen Harbor and Chief Mao's lair had surrendered, but Chief Mao himself had escaped.

When asked about Lu Yi and Xie Xiao, soldiers reported that despite extensive searches, they remained missing and were presumed to have died, their bodies swept away by the sea. Yu Dayong refused to accept this, demanding proof and ordering a relentless search until they were found, even if it meant turning the harbor upside down. Distraught, Shangguan Xi, Lin Ling, and Beggar Uncle decided to join the search themselves.

Episode 43 Recap

Lu Yi, having rescued Xie Xiao from the water, struggled to bring him back, as Xie Xiao was severely wounded. Worried search parties, including Shangguan Xi, Lin Ling, Wu Shouxu, and General Yu, were growing desperate. Just then, Lu Yi returned, carrying an unconscious Xie Xiao. Both were injured and immediately taken away for treatment.

Later, as Lu Yi rested, he dreamt of a little girl playing in a grand estate, a memory that had been dormant for over a decade. Xie Xiao, though seriously hurt, was fortunately not in life-threatening condition. Outside, a commotion indicated that General Qi was preparing his army to hunt down Japanese pirates. Lu Yi learned that this group of pirates was unexpectedly heading towards Hangzhou.

Alarmed that Yuan Jinxia was still there, Lu Yi, despite his injuries, insisted on going. Wu Shouxu quickly sent Assistant Commander Qi to follow Lu Yi, fearing he might rush into danger alone. Meanwhile, Lin Ling informed Shangguan Xi that Lu Yi had already departed for Hangzhou. Shangguan Xi, concerned about Yang Yue, was reassured by Lin Ling that Xie Xiao was stable and she could go.

Lu Yi, accompanied by Cen Fu, traveled through the night, his only hope being Yuan Jinxia's safety. In Hangzhou, Mrs. Qi and Yuan Jinxia had endured a sleepless night, preparing for the inevitable assault. The Japanese pirate leader, referred to as Deputy Chief, was ready to attack, deciding not to wait for Wang Mazi's signal. The pirates advanced on Hangzhou, but Mrs. Qi had already resolved to defend the city to the death.

She ordered the cannons to fire, using their precious eight cannonballs in the first wave to deter the enemy. On the city walls, everyone fought fiercely, with Min bravely delivering arrows to the soldiers. The initial assault was repelled, frustrating the Deputy Chief, who then sent two men to a vantage point for a closer inspection of the city's defenses. Yuan Jinxia, holding her sword, wondered about Lu Yi's well-being.

She felt no regret for staying, proud to stand with Mrs. Qi against the pirates. However, the gunpowder was depleted, leaving them only with hand-to-hand combat if the pirates attacked again. As fear spread among the defenders, Yuan Jinxia stepped forward, reminding them of their previous success against overwhelming odds. She rallied their spirits, asserting that with Mrs. Qi's guidance, and even with just swords, stones, and bricks, they could protect Hangzhou as long as a glimmer of hope remained.

Inspired, Min and the others renewed their resolve. The pirate scouts, observing the city, reported back that most of the defenders were women and children, with only a dozen actual soldiers. Realizing it was a mere scare tactic, the Deputy Chief ordered an all-out assault. The battle raged within Hangzhou. Lu Yi and General Qi, having learned of the dire situation, hastened their pace. As the pirates scaled the city walls, Min was tragically struck by a sword.

Yuan Jinxia quickly arranged for her to be taken back for treatment. Mrs. Qi, Yuan Jinxia, and Yang Yue fought alongside the elderly and infirm on the walls. When the Deputy Chief's forces breached the city gate, the defenders rushed down to meet them, engaging in a brutal, bloody conflict. Just as despair loomed, General Qi and Lu Yi arrived with reinforcements. Lu Yi dismounted and joined the fight, his eyes meeting Yuan Jinxia's across the chaotic battlefield.

A moment of poignant recognition passed between them before Lu Yi pulled her into a comforting embrace amidst the smoke and conflict. General Qi captured the Deputy Chief and then reunited with his wife, Mrs. Qi, who confirmed that Hangzhou had been held until the very last moment. In Yuan Jinxia's arms, Lu Yi finally collapsed, revealing the serious injuries he had sustained.

Elsewhere, Shangguan Xi was greatly relieved to find Yang Yue unharmed, and the two shared an emotional embrace. The Emperor was delighted by the great victory at Cen Harbor. Lu Ting, Lu Yi's father, was relieved upon hearing of his son's safety. The Emperor, pondering General Yu's past actions, was assured by Lu Ting that General Yu harbored no disloyal intentions. The Emperor then commanded Lu Ting to recover the military funds embezzled by Liao Wenhua.

Meanwhile, Yan Shifan issued orders to eliminate Chunyu Min and the captured Deputy Chief, and to secure the release of Luo Wenlong, who was in Mrs. Qi's custody. Lu Yi remained unconscious, causing Yuan Jinxia great worry. Lin Ling reassured her that he was simply exhausted from his long journey and deep in sleep. At the same time, Liao Wenhua desperately sought help from Yan Song, who advised him to return to his hometown to avoid further trouble.

Eventually, Lu Yi awoke to find Yuan Jinxia asleep by his bedside. He tenderly stroked her face, waking her. Lu Yi's gaze conveyed his profound relief and fear of losing her, admitting he had rushed back solely out of worry for her safety. He confessed he would sacrifice his own life for her, deeply moving Yuan Jinxia. Lu Yi then asked her to hum a tune.

Yuan Jinxia obliged, singing a childhood nursery rhyme she used to hum: "One, two, three. Three, two, one. Seven stars shine in the sky. The seven stars show us directions." As Lin Ling arrived with medicine, she froze at the doorway upon hearing the familiar melody.

Episode 44 Recap

After hearing Yuan Jinxia sing a nursery rhyme known as the "Big Dipper" song, Lin Ling, deeply disturbed, left Lu Yi's room. She confided in Yang Chengwan, explaining that this particular song was written by her sister, Lin He, and that they had together taught it to Lin He's child. Lin Ling firmly stated that only she and Lin He knew this specific version of the rhyme, making it highly improbable for anyone else to know it.

She pressed Yang Chengwan, directly asking if Yuan Jinxia was Lin He's daughter. Yang Chengwan, visibly uncomfortable, denied it, reiterating that Lin He's daughter had been abducted to the south of the Yangtze River. Despite his denial, Lin Ling decided that if Yang Chengwan was unwilling to reveal the truth, she would uncover it herself.

The vivid memory of Lin He teaching the child the nursery rhyme continued to haunt Lin Ling's thoughts as she pondered whether Yuan Jinxia was indeed her sister's long-lost child. Meanwhile, Mr. Xu and Priest Lan discussed Liao Wenhua's death. They noted that Liao Wenhua had died of illness on his way back home after being dismissed from office, primarily due to his fear of strict sanctions from His Majesty.

They recognized that they needed to be much more careful in their future actions to avoid detection by Yan Song's faction, especially since Liao Wenhua's trusted associates, with Wu Shouxu being the first, were likely to be implicated. The next morning, Yuan Jinxia brought Lin Ling chicken soup, explaining that she had asked Yang Yue to make it to help Lin Ling recover from exhaustion after caring for the injured soldiers.

Lin Ling then inquired about the "Big Dipper" nursery rhyme she had heard Jinxia singing. Jinxia explained she had learned it at the orphanage from which her mother had adopted her, and that all the children there knew it. This news disheartened Lin Ling, who revealed that a very important person in her life had written the rhyme, but that person was now dead. Lin Ling later prepared a bitter medicine for Xie Xiao, and Jinxia offered to deliver it.

Jinxia found Xie Xiao diligently reading a book, which he quickly hid upon her entrance. He then launched into a boastful account of his bravery in battle, claiming Lu Yi had held him back and that he had actually saved Lu Yi. Jinxia reminded him that Lu Yi had stated Xie Xiao owed him a life, to which Xie Xiao grudgingly admitted Lu Yi had saved him, but insisted Lu Yi couldn't have managed without his help.

Jinxia told him to drink the medicine. Xie Xiao grimaced, pinched his nose, and quickly swallowed it, then immediately asked for candy. After Jinxia left him to rest, Xie Xiao retrieved his book from under the bed and continued reading. The Emperor expressed his pleasure over the recovery of Cen Harbor and praised Priest Lan for his accurate predictions, further increasing his trust in Lan Qingxuan.

However, the Emperor then mentioned the numerous memorials impeaching Wu Shouxu following Liao Wenhua's downfall. When asked for his opinion, Lu Ting deferred, suggesting the matter be handled by the Grand Secretariat, specifically mentioning Mr. Yan and Mr. Xu. The Emperor then sent for Yan Song’s advice.

Yan Song initially assumed the Emperor wanted him to recommend replacements for Wu Shouxu, but Yan Shifan advised his father that the Emperor already had Wang Yi, the Touring Censorial Inspector, in mind and merely sought Yan Song's endorsement, not recommendations. Meanwhile, Lan Qingxuan wrote a secret letter to Lu Yi. At the same time, Min'er was on her deathbed. She held Yuan Jinxia’s hand, telling her how much she admired Jinxia's ability to face adversity and live freely.

Min'er apologized for the harm she had caused Jinxia before taking her last breath. Lu Yi instructed Cen Fu to give Min'er a proper burial, seeing her death as her greatest release and hoping she would find freedom in her next life. The Emperor was greatly pleased by Yan Song's reply, which stated no objection and praised the Emperor’s discernment in selecting talented officials. In the courtyard, Lu Yi practiced his martial arts despite his injuries.

Yuan Jinxia, worried, brought him medicine and insisted he drink it. Lu Yi, feigning weakness, asked her to feed him. Jinxia, sighing, blew on each spoonful to cool it before feeding it to him. Cen Fu, observing the scene, turned away in disdain before announcing that General Yu Dayong had arrived. Lu Yi busily led Jinxia to meet him. General Yu praised Yuan Jinxia, acknowledging her reputation as the "ingenious female constable" mentioned by Mrs. Qi.

He then explained that Wu Shouxu had repeatedly urged him to express gratitude to the Six Doors colleagues for their support in guarding Hangzhou. Jinxia quickly went to summon her master and other colleagues. Lu Yi then asked Yu Dayong to arrange a meeting with Dong Qisheng, which Yu Dayong agreed to.

When Yang Chengwan arrived, Yu Dayong recognized him as "Senior Brother Yang Li," revealing they were from the same sect and had been separated for years after Yang Chengwan left to seek fame and changed his name. Yu Dayong sadly recounted how their master had searched for Yang Li until his dying day. Lu Yi observed the reunion with a sense of puzzlement.

Yan Shifan was approached by Yan Shaoqiong, a supervisor from the Salt Distribution Commission, who was concerned about the widespread rumors regarding Yan Shifan's mining operations in Hangzhou, conducted under the false name of the salt merchant Sima Chang'an. Yan Shifan dismissed the supervisor's fears, assuring him that the Emperor would not dismiss an official who could secure an additional 400,000 taels in salt tax annually, especially while Yan Shifan and his father still served His Majesty.

He then pressed the supervisor for an update on the completion of a cellar he had commissioned, intended to store "treasures" from Hangzhou. Meanwhile, Wu Shouxu reported that Dong Qisheng had refused to confess to the army supplies case. Wu Shouxu planned to escort Dong Qisheng back to the capital, believing this would temporarily resolve the matter and suspend the impeachments against him.

However, Lu Yi and Xu Zhihan disagreed, arguing that simply transferring Dong Qisheng wouldn't solve the larger problem of the ongoing pirate invasion. They noted that Japan, having supported Mao Haifeng's rebellion, could easily support other rebel leaders. Lu Yi, inspecting Japanese firearms seized from pirate camps, observed that their parts seemed to match those he had found earlier in Hangzhou, and asked to take one back to research.

Elsewhere, Yuan Jinxia found Shangguan Xi diligently working on needlework for Yang Yue. Jinxia praised her effort and, knowing Yang Yue's honest but sometimes slow nature, advised Shangguan Xi to be patient with him. Shangguan Xi teased Jinxia about her relationship with Lu Yi, remarking on the unusual connection between them. Jinxia sighed, admitting that their differing social statuses—Lu Yi from a high-ranking family and she a humble constable with no eminent family background—made a carefree relationship impossible.

Yet, she expressed her trust in Lu Yi, who had stated he didn't care about family background. Lin Ling, after examining Shangguan Xi's needlework, noticed a mosquito bite on Jinxia’s neck. Jinxia explained she was particularly attractive to mosquitoes, which led Lin Ling to remark, "Just like my sister." Lin Ling offered to make Jinxia a sachet and medicinal cream to repel mosquitoes, still pondering the strange coincidences and Jinxia being an orphan.

Lu Yi continued his study of the Japanese bird-gun, confirming that its components matched those he had previously found in Hangzhou, definitively linking Yan Shifan's mining to the illegal manufacture of firearms. Soon after, Dong Qisheng was poisoned and died in the prison of the director-general’s mansion during dinner. Lu Yi received news of Dong Qisheng's death, immediately realizing it was not an accident but a poisoning, and that a spy must have been planted within the mansion.

Lu Yi also learned that Luo Wenlong had later confirmed to Yan Shifan that Dong Qisheng had not confessed before Luo Wenlong "took action in time," effectively silencing him. Yan Shifan then pressed for updates on Zhai Lanye, demanding she be found "whether she's alive or dead" since she had been missing since Mao Haifeng burnt down the fortress.

Yan Shifan then met with a painting framer who revealed that his prized "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" painting was a fake, an imitation. The framer explained that the authentic version, which was lost in a foreign tribe, did not contain a specific poem that appeared on Yan Shifan's copy. The framer presented a book meticulously detailing the true painting. Enraged, Yan Shifan cursed Huang Yu, who had presented him with the fake.

Later, Lu Yi visited Wu Shouxu, stating he was not there to investigate Dong Qisheng’s death but to warn Wu Shouxu that his position as Director-general of the Southeast was precarious despite the Cen Harbor victory. Lu Yi explained that Wu Shouxu’s removal would destabilize the army and cause further civilian suffering.

He then suggested a solution: since the Emperor valued auspicious signs and the will of Heaven, finding a "strange beast" from Tiantai Mountain in the Jiangzhe area to offer as an omen could persuade the Emperor to reconsider Wu Shouxu's dismissal. Wu Shouxu acknowledged it was a good idea but noted the difficulty in finding such a mythical creature.

Episode 45 Recap

Following her discovery of Jinxia knowing a lullaby exclusive to her and Lin He, Lin Ling's suspicion that Jinxia might be her sister's daughter grew stronger. As Yang Yue prepared Jinxia's favorite pancakes for her, Lin Ling observed his kindness towards Jinxia. Yang Yue explained that while his father, Yang Chengwan, was strict with Jinxia, he actually favored her the most, always ensuring she received the best food first.

Lin Ling inquired about how long Yang Yue and Jinxia had been neighbors, and he recalled moving there around six years old and having an initial fight with a petite but overwhelming Jinxia. Noticing Yang Chengwan's exceptional kindness to Jinxia, an orphan, Lin Ling deepened her suspicion, wondering if Jinxia could indeed be her sister's daughter. Lin Ling then asked Yang Chengwan about their return to the capital, expressing her firm intention to accompany them.

Yang Chengwan warned her of the dangers posed by Yan Shifan in the capital, but Lin Ling was resolute, revealing that Yan Shifan had saved her from Dong Qisheng and claimed to know the whereabouts of her sister's daughter. Lin Ling further reasoned that if Yan Shifan was so certain about the child's location, it implied he might have taken the child himself.

Yang Chengwan dismissed this as a lie, asserting that Yan Shifan couldn't possibly know the child's whereabouts and urging her not to trust him. However, Lin Ling pressed him, convinced that Yang Chengwan knew the truth and was deliberately concealing it from her, her only remaining relative. She directly questioned if Jinxia was her sister's daughter, which Yang Chengwan vehemently denied.

Meanwhile, in the imperial court, discussions revolved around Huang Yu's negligence as Director-general of the Northeast, which allowed Altan Khan to intrude. Yan Song and Xu Jing offered their perspectives, leading the Emperor to dismiss Huang Yu and hand him over to the Ministry of Justice for trial. The Emperor then appointed Yang Mo to immediately take over Huang Yu's post and repel Altan Khan's army.

Elsewhere, Yuan Jinxia brought pancakes to Xie Xiao, who was deeply saddened after Shangguan Xi informed him about her relationship with Lu Yi. Xie Xiao questioned why Jinxia chose Lu Yi over him, despite his good treatment of her. Jinxia patiently explained that a brother is different from a lover, and her heart belonged only to Lu Yi. She advised him that many beautiful girls existed and a better match awaited him.

Xie Xiao then announced his decision to return to the Wu'an Sect, as promised to Shangguan Xi, to manage its affairs, suggesting they might never meet again. Jinxia encouraged him, expressing her belief that he would lead the Wu'an Sect to greater heights. After Jinxia departed, Xie Xiao shed tears, eating the pancakes and reluctantly wishing her happiness, though still convinced Jinxia should have been his.

Yan Shifan discussed Huang Yu's imprisonment with an associate, confirming his satisfaction that Huang Yu was now jailed and would not be released, explaining that Huang Yu's downfall stemmed from giving him a fake "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" painting. Yan Shifan also made it clear he would not allow Yang Mo, whom the Emperor had just appointed, to return to the capital, preferring to keep him at the border.

Lin Ling presented Jinxia with a newly made dress and a beauty powder called "Seven White Powder," meticulously explaining its ingredients and benefits for whitening and beauty. She expressed her desire to completely transform Jinxia's appearance, even offering to wash her hair with egg white.

Jinxia, uncomfortable with the pampering, politely declined, citing her busy schedule with cases and using an urgent meeting with Lu Yi as an excuse to leave, while Lin Ling advised her to walk like a lady. Lu Yi then led Jinxia to see an "interesting" animal. Jinxia, full of curiosity, guessed it was alive, had fur, and four legs. Lu Yi confirmed it was the White Deer, which Wu Shouxu had captured without any wounds.

Wu Shouxu intended to offer the deer to the Emperor by writing a memorial, but Lu Yi advised him that for the Emperor to truly cherish such a unique gift, the memorial itself needed to be of "great literary grace." Inspired by this, Wu Shouxu wrote a beautifully crafted "White Deer Memorial" that captivated the Emperor. The Emperor praised Wu Shouxu's merit and ordered Lu Yi to escort the White Deer to the capital.

Upon receiving the imperial edict, Lu Yi informed Yang Chengwan and Jinxia about their imminent return to the capital. Jinxia was overjoyed, reflecting on her significant gains during the journey and playfully asking Lu Yi about his. He confessed that his greatest gain was her. Jinxia, blushing, then expressed her regret at not having found her lost family during the trip.

Xie Xiao bade Jinxia farewell with a "brother's hug," then sternly warned Lu Yi that if he ever mistreated Jinxia, he would be the first to take her back, a challenge Lu Yi confidently dismissed.

Yang Yue promised Shangguan Xi that after they returned to the capital and prepared the betrothal presents, he would go to Yangzhou to propose and come with the matchmaker, urging her to take care of herself and wait for him while she took care of Xie Xiao. Lin Ling decided to accompany Lu Yi's group to the capital, declining Shangguan Xi's offer to stay as the Wu'an Sect's doctor, while Mr. Beggar declared he would go wherever Lin Ling went.

The group then set off for the capital. Meanwhile, Luo Wenlong returned to the capital and reported to Yan Shifan that he had thoroughly burned all files concerning Yan Shifan's dealings with Mao Haifeng in Hangzhou, ensuring no trace remained for Lu Yi to uncover. He reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to Yan Shifan, even recounting how he endured torture from Qi Weigang's wife without revealing anything.

Upon their arrival in the capital, Lu Yi, in his impressive Embroidered Uniform Guards attire, escorted the White Deer. Jinxia, awestruck, commented on the grandeur of the Embroidered Uniform Guards, to which Lu Yi jokingly corrected her, stating that it was "someone of the Embroidered Uniform Guards" who was particularly impressive. Jinxia invited Lin Ling to stay at her home, an offer Lin Ling gratefully accepted.

Yang Yue, however, subtly cautioned Lin Ling about Jinxia's mother, Mrs. Yuan, hinting that she was no ordinary person to deal with. Jinxia reassured Lin Ling that her mother would be fond of her. Yang Yue also arranged for Mr. Beggar to stay at Yang Chengwan's home. As Lu Yi entered the palace, he encountered Huang Yu's sons, Huang Shizhen and his brother, tearfully pleading for their father's innocence and begging Lu Yi for assistance.

Lu Yi ordered them to be taken away to prevent them from startling the White Deer. Jinxia brought Lin Ling to her home, where Mrs. Yuan was selling tofu. Mrs. Yuan expressed her heartfelt joy at Jinxia's return after months away. Jinxia introduced Lin Ling as a kind doctor she met in Yangzhou, a friend of her master Yang Chengwan, who would be staying with them. Mrs. Yuan warmly welcomed Lin Ling, admiring her beauty.

In the palace, Lu Yi met Lan Qingxuan, who enthusiastically spoke of his fulfilling life, including how he playfully mocked treacherous officials under the guise of gods, thanks to the Emperor's trust. Lan Qingxuan then shed light on Huang Yu's predicament, explaining that Yan Shifan sought to eliminate Huang Yu because of a fake painting he had received.

He detailed how Huang Yu's sons had futilely pleaded at Yan Song's mansion, with Yan Song outwardly promising help but secretly forcing the Court of Judicial Review to ensure Huang Yu's death. Lan Qingxuan also noted that no one dared to intervene on behalf of the Huang brothers, due to the formidable power of Yan Song's faction.

News of Lin Ling residing at Jinxia's house quickly reached Yan Shifan, who, pleased that the "big fish" had come to him, confirmed that his renovated mansion, fully equipped, was ready for her. During an audience with the Emperor, Lu Yi humbly responded to questions about his contributions to the Cen Harbor battle, disclaiming credit and attributing any success to the soldiers. The Emperor praised Lu Yi's modesty, acknowledging his merits, and commended Lu Ting for raising such a son.

At Jinxia's home, Mrs. Yuan served doufunao to Jinxia and Lin Ling. Mrs. Yuan's inquisitive nature led her to ask Lin Ling about her origins in Fujian, her purpose in coming to the capital (to seek her family), and her marital status. Jinxia interjected, explaining that her mother, though kind-hearted, spoke without much thought due to her lack of formal education. Lin Ling reassured Mrs. Yuan that she did not mind.

Meanwhile, Lu Ting directly asked Lu Yi if he was behind Wu Shouxu's impressive White Deer memorial. Lu Yi admitted to offering a "tip" and expressed his frustration over the unfair impeachment of brave commanders like Yu Dayong and Qi Weigang, viewing his advice as a measure to protect the people of the southeast from pirates.

Lu Ting advised Lu Yi to stay out of official affairs, but Lu Yi disagreed, stating that everyone's destiny was linked to the factional struggles within the government. Soon after, Lu Yi and Lu Ting encountered Yan Shifan. Yan Shifan greeted Lu Yi, inquiring about the White Deer's journey.

He then instructed Lu Yi to promptly investigate Huang Yu and submit the case files to the Court of Judicial Review, so that the Ministry of Justice could handle it, and Huang Yu's sons would no longer disturb the Emperor's tranquility with their pleas.

Episode 46 Recap

After concluding matters with Yan Shifan, Lu Yi returned home, where his father, Lu Ting, reassured him that as long as he managed the North Bureau, all reports would be based strictly on evidence, nothing more. Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia waited anxiously outside her home for Lu Yi, believing he wouldn't come due to the late hour. However, Lu Yi soon appeared, teasing her for denying she was waiting.

She playfully admitted her anticipation had made her hungry, and Lu Yi promised to take her for a good meal. Lu Yi brought Yuan Jinxia to see Lan Qingxuan, who had prepared a lavish spread, which Yuan Jinxia heartily enjoyed. Lan Qingxuan, now known as "Fairy Lan" due to imperial favor, observed the happy atmosphere between Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia. He toasted to their happiness, remarking that Yuan Jinxia had clearly "mastered her own happiness."

He also alluded to a previous conversation, reminding her that "happiness, sometimes you have to fight for it," a sentiment Yuan Jinxia now fully understood. Before leaving, Lu Yi cautioned Lan Qingxuan to be extra careful with the White Deer, as the Emperor and his courtiers would be viewing it the next day. He also mentioned Yan Shifan's increasingly outrageous behavior, such as repeatedly rejecting annual grants for Prince Yu's family for three years.

Later, as a tipsy Yuan Jinxia rode on Lu Yi's back, she asked if he remembered the question she posed when he gave her the wrist strap: if he feared losing the strap or her more. Lu Yi confirmed he remembered and, after some playful evasion, admitted that at the time, he was afraid of losing her, essentially confessing his feelings. Yuan Jinxia giggled happily, expressing that her life would be perfect if she could only find her birth parents.

Lu Yi assured her that he had already sent Cen Fu to investigate, and they would soon have answers. The following day, the Emperor, accompanied by his ministers, observed the magnificent White Deer. Lan Qingxuan demonstrated the deer's perfect obedience, earning praise from the Emperor, who believed its docility was a sign of his own pre-existence as its master. Courtiers vied to flatter the Emperor, with Yan Shifan suggesting the Emperor personally write a plaque.

Grand Secretary Yan, Yan Shifan's father, proposed "Yunlong" (Cloud Dragon) as the name. This sparked a debate when another official argued that the name was disrespectful, as the White Deer was merely a servant to the Emperor, the true Dragon Incarnate. Yan Shifan tried to defend his father's suggestion, but Mr. Xu then offered "Gaoxun" (Seeking the Peak), drawing from a poem by Yangming, to signify the Emperor's earnest pursuit of Taoist enlightenment. Most ministers agreed.

Lu Ting skillfully avoided taking sides, stating both names were excellent and leaving the final decision to the Emperor, who ultimately chose "Gaoxun." At home, Yuan Jinxia woke up to find her uniforms washed and gone. Her mother, Yuan Danniang, informed her that she had arranged a day off and prepared new clothes for a blind date with Mr. Yi's third son. Yuan Jinxia, thoroughly displeased, attempted to evade the appointment with various excuses like a headache and diarrhea.

Yuan Danniang, however, was resolute, even resorting to feigning illness to emotionally manipulate Yuan Jinxia into agreeing, reminding her of the neighbors' gossip and her own sacrifices. Reluctantly, Yuan Jinxia conceded. Meanwhile, Cen Fu delivered Yuan Jinxia's orphanage records to Lu Yi, who found her childhood descriptions—"restless, resistant to losses, keen to protect the weak, prone to dozing off when reciting," and a hearty eater—amusingly accurate; she hadn't changed at all.

Cen Fu also reported a peculiar development: Yan Shifan had started investigating the Xia Ran case. Lu Yi found this suspicious, knowing Yan Shifan's prior involvement, and ordered Cen Fu to secretly track Yan Shifan and gather all information on the Xia Ran case, fearing a new conspiracy. Yuan Danniang took Yuan Jinxia to the restaurant to meet Mr. Yi, discreetly reminding her daughter to speak softly and smile without showing her teeth before quickly departing.

As soon as her mother left, Yuan Jinxia reverted to her usual self, eating ravenously. Mr. Yi, appalled by her behavior, launched into a lecture on women's virtues and proper conduct. To scare him off, Yuan Jinxia exaggerated her work as a constable, describing how her hands often touched corpses and her feet walked on secretions.

She vividly recounted finding "corpse-eating bugs" (maggots) in her bed after work, claiming she and Yang Yue had spent hours picking them out, which made them unable to eat for days. From a table above, Lu Yi, who had been observing, sent Cen Fu away. Mr. Yi, completely horrified, declared the date over and fled, refusing to pay for the meal.

Lu Yi then approached Yuan Jinxia, who was flustered but explained that none of the hundred men she had been set up with for blind dates had appealed to her. When Lu Yi asked who she "did" want to marry, she simply smiled at him. He understood, then gently wiped a bit of food from her mouth. In the imperial court, a heated debate erupted over the Emperor's desire to immediately begin construction of a Taoist temple.

Some officials argued for reallocating funds to disaster relief or military efforts against pirates, citing an empty treasury. Grand Secretary Yan supported the project, while the Left Deputy Minister of Works conceded its worthiness but insisted it be postponed until after the Lunar New Year due to ongoing projects and depleted funds. However, the Emperor was adamant about an immediate start. Lan Qingxuan presented a chosen site for the "star observation temple" and earned praise.

Yet, the Emperor, now concerned about the treasury's funds, suspected embezzlement and questioned his eunuch, Li Fang, who was too frightened to answer. Later, Lu Yi met with Mr. Xu, who implicitly acknowledged Lu Yi's prior warning about the Emperor's intentions. Lu Yi explained his involvement was driven by a shared desire to punish evil, which was why he had recommended Lan Qingxuan in the first place.

Mr. Xu, surprised by Lu Yi's departure from the Lu family's traditional neutrality and Lu Ting's close ties to the Yan family, questioned his risky path. Lu Yi asserted that his father's stance did not represent his own and declared his willingness to gamble his family's future to fight for justice, even if it meant their destruction.

Mr. Xu clarified that the Emperor's decision to build the temple was a subtle move to make the Yan family bear the cost, a sign of his growing distrust, but stressed that uprooting them entirely would be a long and delicate process, requiring careful balance. Meanwhile, Shangguan Xi received a letter from Yang Yue. Xie Xiao appeared, informing her that their father, the Wu'an Sect leader, had secured a new business deal in the capital.

To develop new transport footholds there, he needed Shangguan Xi to accompany Xie Xiao, as he didn't trust his son to handle the complex interests involved alone. Shangguan Xi agreed, acknowledging that dealing with the powerful Yan family, who held significant sway in the capital, was unavoidable. She worried about being forced to collude with Yan Shifan, but Xie Xiao reassured her and expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing Yuan Jinxia and their other friends.

Back at the Lu residence, Lu Ting admonished Lu Yi for his bold actions, particularly the White Deer gift that had attracted jealousy for associating with Wu Shouxu. Lu Ting ordered him to distance himself. Lu Yi maintained his innocence. Lu Ting then revealed the Emperor had issued an edict for him to escort Yu Dayong back to the capital.

This was due to censors impeaching Wu Shouxu for indulging Mao Haifeng's ravages in Fujian, and Wu Shouxu shifting the blame to Yu Dayong, leading the Emperor to order Yu Dayong's arrest. Lu Yi was outraged, defending Yu Dayong's unwavering dedication as a military commander against pirates, and understood this was a trap set by Yan Shifan.

Lu Ting, however, forbade Lu Yi from intervening, warning that defending Yu Dayong would lead to accusations of colluding with border generals, a grave offense that would implicate the entire Lu family. Despite his father's fury, Lu Yi insisted he had already resolved to fight the Yan family and would find a way to protect Yu Dayong without implicating his father.

Lu Yi then emotionally questioned his father's understanding of "loyalty and righteousness," reminding him of past instances where Lu Ting, out of fear of the Yan family, had abandoned friends like Shen Lian, who was banished and tragically died, and Yang Qizheng, who was imprisoned and perished after impeaching the Yan family, as well as his inaction in the Xia Ran case. Lu Ting, deeply pained, ordered him to stop.

Episode 47 Recap

Lu Yi confronted his father, Lu Ting, about his past inactions, accusing him of prioritizing the Yan Family's power over upholding justice. Lu Yi recalled how Shen Lian, a registrar he considered a brother, tragically died after Lu Ting failed to help him, fearing the Yan Family. He also mentioned Secretary of Revenue Yang Qizheng, who was slandered and tortured to death for attempting to impeach the Yan Family, and the tragic fate of the Xia Family.

Lu Yi pressed his father, asking if he had ever regretted his choices over the years. Later, Cen Fu brought Lu Yi some investigative files, including those of Xia Ran, which Lu Yi had requested. Cen Fu reported finding an old maid who used to work at the Xia Residence. She revealed that Xia Changqing had a daughter who went missing during the Lantern Festival when she was about four years old.

Lu Yi then remembered a recurring dream of a little girl playing at the Xia mansion, connecting it to the missing child. Cen Fu also noted that after the child traffickers died, the girl was sent to an orphanage. Lu Yi instructed Cen Fu to gather the files of all four-year-old children from that orphanage at the time. Meanwhile, Yan Shifan revealed his true intention: he didn't care about Yu Dayong, a mere "small fry."

He planned to use Yu Dayong's plight to trap Lu Yi, knowing Lu Yi's strong sense of righteousness would compel him to intervene. Yan Shifan intended to impeach Lu Yi for colluding with border generals, aiming to eradicate the entire Lu Family. He even boasted of his power over His Majesty, threatening to turn him into the next Xia Ran if he dared to defy him.

Lu Yi spent the night studying in his office and, the next morning, learned that General Yu Dayong had been escorted back to the capital. He rushed to the Imperial Prison, expressing his sorrow that a loyal general who had bravely fought on the battlefield was now framed and imprisoned. Yu Dayong lamented the injustice, feeling his life's purpose was to die on the battlefield, not as a framed prisoner.

Lu Yi vowed not to stand by and promised to do everything to clear his name. Lu Yi presented a memorial advocating for Yu Dayong to Lu Ting, who angrily rebuked him. Lu Ting explained that presenting such a document without concrete evidence would not only fail to help Yu Dayong but also implicate Lu Yi. Soon after, Yuan Jinxia visited Lu Yi at the North Bureau, sensing his distress over Yu Dayong's situation.

She assured him she would help in any way she could. Seeing Lu Yi's somber mood, Yuan Jinxia suggested they take a walk to clear his head. Later that night, Lu Ting observed Lu Yi still poring over case files. He recalled Lu Yi's childhood aspiration to become a "righteous gentleman."

Lu Ting then advised Lu Yi to instruct Yu Dayong to write a letter offering to lead forces to suppress the Japanese pirates, assuring Lu Yi that His Majesty would then consider his plea. Lu Yi met Lan Qingxuan late at night, his haggard appearance betraying his distress over Yu Dayong. Lan Qingxuan acknowledged Lu Yi's righteous nature but warned that such a path often came with sacrifices, especially given the dangers posed by the Yan Family.

Lu Yi explained his plan for Yu Dayong to atone for his "sins" by leading the charge against the Japanese pirates, but admitted he needed Lan Qingxuan to use an "oracle" to convince His Majesty, who was unlikely to change his mind easily. Lan Qingxuan shrewdly understood Lu Yi's request and agreed to help by providing a pretense of divination.

The next day, as Lan Qingxuan performed a divination for His Majesty, Lu Yi sought an audience and presented Yu Dayong's memorial. After Lu Yi departed, Lan Qingxuan mysteriously declared that a capable person would emerge to solve the problem of the Japanese pirates in the southeast, subtly reinforcing Yu Dayong's proposal. Soon after, Yu Dayong was released from the Imperial Prison. Yang Chengwan and Lu Yi were there to see him off.

Yu Dayong light-heartedly mentioned looking forward to drinking at Yang Chengwan's son's wedding, which inadvertently made Lu Yi think of Yuan Jinxia, prompting him to quickly excuse himself from Yang Chengwan. Yan Shifan learned of Yu Dayong's release and correctly deduced that Lu Ting had orchestrated the manipulation of His Majesty's decision to protect his son. Lu Yi, accompanied by Lin Ling, arrived at Mrs. Yuan's home with betrothal gifts.

Mrs. Yuan initially mistook Lu Yi for someone Yuan Jinxia had brought to deter another arranged marriage. Lu Yi quickly clarified that he was indeed there to formally propose marriage and would follow all proper wedding etiquette with formal betrothal gifts. Mrs. Yuan expressed her bewilderment, remarking on Yuan Jinxia's tomboyish nature as a child and her current lack of ladylike manners, questioning what Lu Yi could possibly see in her.

Lin Ling interjected, confirming the genuine affection between Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia. Mrs. Yuan then inquired about Lu Yi's family background. Lu Yi stated that both he and his father worked in the court, and he held the title of Assistant of the Embroidered Uniform Guards. Mrs. Yuan, still concerned, asked if an Assistant was a high-ranking official.

Lin Ling reassured Mrs. Yuan that Lu Yi was a handsome and capable man who treated Yuan Jinxia well, making him a suitable match. Despite her earlier reservations, Mrs. Yuan voiced concerns about Yuan Jinxia, accustomed to freedom, potentially suffering if she married into an official family with strict rules. Lu Yi promised that his family, consisting only of him and his father after his mother's early death, had few rules, ensuring Yuan Jinxia would not be constrained.

Mrs. Yuan teasingly remarked that it remained to be seen who would suffer more, but ultimately gave her consent. As Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia walked through the streets hand in hand, Yuan Jinxia paused at a stall, pointing to a jade pendant and reciting a line about a mythical fish named Kun that could transform into a bird. Lu Yi recalled her saying the same words when they were cutting paper in Yangzhou.

Yuan Jinxia then bought the pendant for one tael of silver and gave it to Lu Yi, who smiled, calling it a treasure. Cen Fu returned to Lu Yi with the files of all four-year-old children from the orphanage at the time, including the names of their adopters. Upon reviewing them, Lu Yi discovered Yuan Jinxia's name. He remembered Yuan Jinxia had told him she was adopted from an orphanage by Mrs. Yuan.

The names Yuan Jinxia, Yang Chengwan, Lin He, and the Xia Family began to connect in Lu Yi's mind. He theorized that Lin He had deliberately arranged for her child to be taken away and then secretly entrusted her to Yang Chengwan to protect the Xia Family's bloodline, which explained Yang Chengwan's unusual care for Yuan Jinxia. Meanwhile, Lin Ling, while helping Mrs. Yuan with chores, subtly asked about Yuan Jinxia's adoption.

Mrs. Yuan recounted how she adopted Jinxia for companionship after her husband's early death, recalling that Jinxia, then a quiet child eating in a corner while others cried, had a word "Xia" on the corner of her dress, which led Mrs. Yuan to name her Jinxia. Startled, Lin Ling eagerly asked to see the dress. Mrs. Yuan retrieved it from a chest.

Seeing the "Xia" character and the specific embroidery on the dress, Lin Ling recognized it as her sister Lin He's handiwork, realizing with immense joy that she had finally found her sister's daughter. An overjoyed Lin Ling excitedly told Yuan Jinxia that she was her biological aunt and her sister Lin He's daughter.

She pointed out that Yuan Jinxia bore a striking resemblance to her mother and revealed that Lin He had sewn Yuan Jinxia's birth details into the collar of the dress as an old custom to ward off diseases. Lin Ling then carefully cut open the collar, revealing a strip of cloth with Yuan Jinxia's birth information.

Mrs. Yuan remained skeptical despite the evidence, but Lin Ling insisted, further explaining that Yang Chengwan's willingness to accept Yuan Jinxia as his disciple was another testament to her true identity. Overcome with emotion, Lin Ling knelt and repeatedly thanked Mrs. Yuan for raising Yuan Jinxia for so many years. Yuan Jinxia, finally grasping the truth, tearfully embraced Lin Ling, calling her "Aunt." Though saddened by the revelation, Mrs. Yuan expressed relief that Yuan Jinxia had found her biological family.

Yuan Jinxia then eagerly asked about her parents, but Lin Ling, with a heavy heart, could only tell her they had passed away. Lin Ling then recounted the tragic events: Yuan Jinxia's true surname was Xia, making her Xia Ran's granddaughter. Years ago, Lin Ling received a letter from Lin He, instructing her to come to the capital to retrieve Jinxia from Yang Chengwan.

However, by the time Lin Ling arrived, the Xia Residence had been tragically annihilated by the Yan Family. Lin Ling explained that Lin He had secretly sent Yuan Jinxia away beforehand to preserve the Xia Family bloodline. Lin Ling urged Yuan Jinxia and Mrs. Yuan to keep this secret, as revealing it would put Yuan Jinxia in grave danger. Mrs. Yuan, grappling with the bittersweet discovery, worried about losing the daughter she had raised for so long.

Yuan Jinxia, sensing her foster mother's distress, assured her she would always be her daughter and would never leave her. Still overwhelmed with finding Yuan Jinxia, Lin Ling rushed to Yang Chengwan's residence and confronted him, demanding to know why he had lied about Yuan Jinxia's identity. Yang Chengwan initially feigned ignorance, but Lin Ling stated she had already found irrefutable proof of Yuan Jinxia's identity.

She accused him of deliberately leading her astray while knowing Yuan Jinxia was her only surviving relative. Yang Chengwan admitted to his deception, explaining that he had acted to protect Yuan Jinxia and Mrs. Yuan from the dangers that would follow if Yuan Jinxia's true identity was revealed, especially now that Lu Yi had proposed to her.

Episode 48 Recap

Lin Ling informed Yang Chengwan that Lu Yi had already proposed marriage, believing that given Lu Yi's status as Lu Ting's eldest son, he would be able to protect Yuan Jinxia. However, Yang Chengwan strongly objected, concerned that Lu Ting would never agree if he knew Yuan Jinxia's true family background. Yuan Jinxia met with Lu Yi, sharing her discovery that she had found her family, though sadly, they had all passed away.

Lu Yi sighed, realizing she now knew everything. Yuan Jinxia excitedly revealed that Lin Ling was indeed her maternal aunt, and her paternal grandfather was Xia Ran, the former Grand Secretary. She explained that while others claimed her grandfather committed a crime, she knew he was framed, and the Yan family was her primary enemy. Despite Lin Ling not urging revenge, Yuan Jinxia vowed to seek retribution for her family's destruction.

Lu Yi cautioned her about the Yan family's immense power, urging her not to reveal her identity or act impulsively. Internally, Lu Yi was devastated, questioning why Yuan Jinxia had to be Xia Ran's granddaughter. He grappled with the realization that if she learned the full truth about the Xia Ran case, an insurmountable conflict would arise between them, and he agonized over how to minimize her pain. Lu Yi later met with Lan Qingxuan, seeking solace in alcohol.

Lan Qingxuan pressed him to reveal his worries. Lu Yi brought up the Xia Ran case from over a decade ago. He explained that his father, Lu Ting, had once been impeached and had to kneel before Xia Ran to beg for his release, an act that caused Lu Ting to harbor deep resentment towards Xia Ran.

He further elaborated that Yan Song had acquired a crucial letter from Qiu Cheng, who was in Imperial Prison at the time, with Lu Ting's involvement, which accused Xia Ran of colluding with a border general, leading to the downfall of the Xia family. Lu Yi then revealed that Yuan Jinxia was Xia Ran's granddaughter. Lan Qingxuan was astonished, recognizing that this made Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia enemies.

Lu Yi confessed his fear that Yuan Jinxia, given her character, would not hate him, but would instead blame fate and herself, a thought he found unbearable. At home, Yuan Jinxia was engrossed in embroidering the character "Xia" on a handkerchief, intending it as a gift for Lu Yi, hoping it would always remain with him. Lin Ling watched her, then announced that they would visit Yuan Jinxia's old family home the following day.

That night, Lu Yi stood outside Yuan Jinxia's house, observing the light from her window, his heart in turmoil. He resolved that for her own good, he had no choice but to hurt her, unaware that she was still happily working on the handkerchief for him. The next day, Lin Ling took Yuan Jinxia to the dilapidated Xia family mansion, a place Lin Ling remembered as where Yuan Jinxia used to play as a child.

Yuan Jinxia suddenly experienced a vivid memory of playing hopscotch with an elderly man, realizing with a jolt that he was her grandfather. Despite not remembering much of her childhood, Yuan Jinxia, as the sole surviving member of the Xia family, felt a profound responsibility to clear her grandfather's name. Meanwhile, Yan Shifan had also uncovered Yuan Jinxia's identity, confirming her as Lin Ling's niece and Xia Ran's granddaughter, finding the coincidence amusing.

Lu Yi remained deeply conflicted, torn by his love for Yuan Jinxia and the reality of her being Xia Ran's granddaughter. He accepted it as fate and vowed to atone for the Lu family's debt to the Xia family. Lu Ting's health was visibly deteriorating. A doctor informed him his condition was serious, and while recovery was possible with medicine, Lu Ting himself believed his time was limited.

He expressed his only remaining concern was Lu Yi, fearing his son's steadfast loyalty and strong friendships might lead him into trouble. Lu Yi had spent the entire night handling duties at the North Bureau. Soon after, news arrived that the Star Observation Temple had collapsed, enraging the Emperor.

The Emperor, not believing Yan Shifan's explanation for the collapse, demanded that Lu Ting immediately investigate the true cause and the whereabouts of the Ministry of Works' funds, giving Yan Shifan one month to reconstruct the temple. Lu Yi rushed to the site of the collapsed temple and observed workers preparing to discard damaged wood, claiming it was unusable after being soaked by rain. He suspected wrongdoing.

Lu Yi then met with Lan Qingxuan, whom the Emperor had secretly consulted for divination regarding the collapse. Lan Qingxuan explained that the Emperor also doubted Yan Shifan's explanation and wanted him to secretly investigate. Lu Yi stated his belief that there was an issue with the wood and that the Ministry of Works should be held accountable.

Separately, Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao prepared to escort a large shipment of wood and goods to the capital, a massive order that required meticulous care given a previous incident where money under their escort had been lost. They planned to depart the following morning. Lu Ting's health showed no improvement, prompting Lu Yi to personally bring him medicine. Yuan Jinxia, who hadn't seen Lu Yi recently, had waited patiently at the North Bureau for him.

She presented him with the handkerchief she had painstakingly embroidered, apologizing for its amateur appearance. Lu Yi, maintaining a cold demeanor, rejected the gift and dismissively told her he had no time for her. When she questioned his behavior, he harshly declared that she should know her place, asserting that her identity would bring shame to the Lu family. Yuan Jinxia was stunned, recalling his past declaration that she was the only woman he ever wanted to marry.

Trembling, she realized she had misjudged him and their bond, feeling her heart had been misguided. She dropped the handkerchief and walked away. Lu Yi quietly picked it up, internally apologizing and believing his actions were necessary to protect her. Heartbroken, Yuan Jinxia sought solace in drinking heavily with Yang Yue, who struggled to restrain her.

She cried, lamenting that she no longer had Lu Yi to rely on and recognizing that his family, being high-ranking officials, would inevitably care about her background. She begged Yang Yue to let her drink more, hoping to forget Lu Yi and his cruel words. Yang Yue reluctantly complied, then carried her drunken body home. Lu Yi watched them from a distance until she was safely inside.

Lin Ling prepared sobering soup for Yuan Jinxia, who expressed her deep desire to forget Lu Yi. Lin Ling compassionately told her that while she could make her sober up, she could not make her forget; that was a burden Yuan Jinxia had to bear herself. Lin Ling suggested a possible misunderstanding and encouraged Yuan Jinxia to talk to Lu Yi, but Yuan Jinxia firmly refused, stating there was nothing left to discuss.

Episode 49 Recap

Yuan Jinxia sat alone, her hand-rope clutched in her hand, pondering how things had come to such a pass. Shortly after, she returned to the Six Doors office, where Yang Yue excitedly informed her that Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao would be arriving in the capital in a few days. Yang Yue, concerned by Jinxia's constant distraction and subdued demeanor, observed that Jinxia was no longer her usual cheerful self.

She expressed worry, noting that Jinxia seemed bored every day and might be overwhelmed. Yang Yue knew Jinxia missed Lu Yi and acknowledged the difficulty of forgetting someone. She even suggested Jinxia might consider a relationship with Xie Xiao, given his long-standing affection, but Jinxia immediately shut down the idea, threatening to beat Yang Yue if she continued. Meanwhile, at the Lu residence, Lu Ting’s health continued to decline.

Lu Yi reported on his investigation into the collapse of the Star Observation Temple, revealing that the Ministry of Works had used substandard cedar wood instead of pine or cypress, and had failed to treat it for dampness, leading to its rapid deterioration. This confirmed the Ministry of Works’ use of bad materials.

Lu Yi questioned where the building funds went, leading Lu Ting to suggest that Yan Shaoqiong, who had recently dismissed servants and removed luxurious decorations from his mansion, had embezzled money from the Ministry of Works to fund his own renovations. Lu Ting pointed out this presented a good opportunity for Lu Yi, instructing him to study documents from the North and South Bureaus and, from that day forward, to write all the case files for his own investigations.

Elsewhere, Yan Shifan, dismissing his father Yan Song's concerns about Lan Qingxuan's influence on the Emperor, confidently stated that a mere Taoist priest could not cause trouble for their family. He advised his father to avoid Ministry of Works officials and let him handle all matters. Later, in his study, Lu Yi found his thoughts constantly drifting to Yuan Jinxia. He picked up the handkerchief she had embroidered, gazing at the slightly crooked "Xia" character.

He felt a profound sense of sadness, acknowledging to himself, "I thought you were different from others. I like someone I shouldn't." At her own home, Jinxia, after a long day, still found her mind preoccupied with Lu Yi. She stared at the hand-rope in her hand, wondering what she could possibly do to forget him. Eventually, she put the hand-rope away, hoping it would help her stop thinking of Lu Yi.

The death of the White Deer prompted the Emperor to summon Lan Qingxuan for an explanation. Lan Qingxuan confidently claimed that the White Deer was an auspicious sign sent by heaven to fend off disaster for the Emperor, and its death meant the Emperor would now be safe and healthy.

He also asserted that the collapse of the Star Observation Temple was not an act of heaven but a human error, as astronomical observations showed no celestial movements that would indicate a divine cause. The Emperor, while stating he would await investigation results for the temple, punished Lan Qingxuan with a seven-day fast and confinement to the temple for his failure to properly care for the White Deer, warning him of severe repercussions if his words proved untrue.

Outside the North Commandery Division, Yuan Duniang confronted Lu Yi, demanding to know what her daughter, Yuan Jinxia, meant to him. She accused him of treating Jinxia like goods that could be bought and returned at will. Lu Yi insisted he never saw Jinxia as such, merely stating they were "not suitable." Yuan Duniang, enraged, called him ungrateful, recounting how Lin Ling had told her Jinxia had nearly died to save his life and had even prepared a last letter.

Despite Lu Yi's apologies, Yuan Duniang declared she never wanted to see him within one kilometer of her house again, threatening to beat him if he crossed her path. That night, Yan Feng infiltrated Lin Ling's room, knocking her unconscious and abducting her. When Lin Ling awoke, she found herself in Yan Shifan’s mansion. Yan Shifan expressed his longing for her, stating he had missed her dearly and had Yan Feng "invite" her there.

He confessed his affection and desired her to stay by his side willingly, but Lin Ling defiantly spat, "In your dreams." Discovering the overturned teacup at Lin Ling's residence, Yuan Jinxia immediately sought out Yang Chengwan, fearing the "disgusting things" Yan Shifan might do if he had indeed captured her aunt. Jinxia was desperate to rescue Lin Ling, but Yang Chengwan and Yang Yue urged caution, pointing out that the Yan mansion was heavily guarded and caution was necessary.

Yang Chengwan promised to send people to investigate first before formulating a plan. Later that night, Lu Yi walked to Yuan Jinxia’s home, stopping outside. He felt a deep sadness as he recalled their shared moments, then sighed and quietly departed. Inside, Lin Ling, now fully aware that Yan Shifan knew of Yuan Jinxia’s true family background, resolved that the only way for them to find peace was to kill Yan Shifan.

Meanwhile, Xie Xiao and Shangguan Xi arrived in the capital. After discussing their main business, Xie Xiao eagerly suggested visiting Yuan Jinxia. On the street, Jinxia and Yang Yue noticed large wine jars being placed in the middle of the road. The wine merchant explained that Grand Secretary Yan was holding a feast the next day and had ordered sixty jars. Jinxia immediately saw this as an opportunity for them to infiltrate the Yan mansion.

Yang Yue expressed concern about the danger, but Jinxia insisted that they could try to get in by posing as casual laborers. Despite Yang Yue's continued warnings about the dangers, Jinxia assured her she would think it over and take her along. The next day, Jinxia secretly disguised herself as a young male servant and successfully entered the Yan mansion. While she was helping with chores, Lu Yi arrived.

Jinxia froze, her eyes fixed on him, only lowering her gaze as he drew closer. They passed by each other, and it took Jinxia a while to recover from the encounter. Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao visited Yang Yue, who fussed over Shangguan Xi’s comfort. Xie Xiao asked about Jinxia and Lu Yi, learning that they had broken up due to Jinxia's family background.

Yang Yue then revealed that Jinxia was the granddaughter of the former Grand Secretary Xia Ran, and Lin Ling was her aunt. Outraged, Xie Xiao assumed Lu Yi had abandoned Jinxia to avoid implication and immediately wanted to confront him. Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue restrained him, explaining that Lin Ling had been abducted by Yan Shifan, which had left Jinxia deeply depressed. Xie Xiao then decided to go check on Jinxia directly instead.

At the Yan mansion, Jinxia cautiously wandered through the courtyards, nearly being discovered by a guard. Lu Yi, seeing her predicament, quickly intervened, claiming Jinxia was his lost servant. As he attempted to lead her away, Yan Shifan appeared. Jinxia instinctively hid behind Lu Yi, but Yan Shifan's sharp eyes still noticed her, remarking on her delicate appearance. Lu Yi, feigning illness of his father, quickly found an excuse to pull Jinxia away.

Once they were out of earshot, Lu Yi, visibly angry, chastised Jinxia for taking such a reckless risk alone. He sarcastically asked why she hadn't sought his help, suggesting she probably thought he would avoid a "sinner's granddaughter." He then firmly told her to stop taking risks, urging her to leave everything to him and just be obedient, doing as he said to avoid trouble. He explicitly stated that she was the only woman he wanted to marry.

Jinxia was momentarily lost in thought, then coldly asked Lu Yi to stay away from her to avoid implication. She thanked him for his help and left, leaving Lu Yi to sigh in frustration. Yuan Jinxia, alone, visited the desolate ruins of the Xia mansion. In her grief, she imagined her mother and Lin Ling playing with her in happier times.

A sad smile touched her lips, but it quickly faded as she faced the harsh reality of the barren ruins. She cried, lamenting her helplessness in protecting Lin Ling, her only surviving relative. After Jinxia left, Lu Yi emerged from the shadows. He struggled with the urge to approach her, but forced himself to stay back, watching her heartbroken departure. He silently vowed to provide her with a proper explanation.

Upon returning home, Yuan Duniang informed Jinxia that Xie Xiao was waiting for her at Xinfeng Bridge, insisting he wouldn’t leave until he saw her. Jinxia went to meet him. Xie Xiao tried to cheer her up by lighting a firework stick. However, seeing the fireworks only brought back painful memories of a night with Lu Yi. Jinxia burst into tears, confessing her despair at finally finding her only relative, only to fail in protecting her.

Xie Xiao, heartbroken to see her so unlike her usual fearless self, gently comforted her. Jinxia expressed her fear and helplessness, admitting she used to believe money could solve everything, but now felt timid and useless in the face of such a powerful family. Xie Xiao reassured her, promising that despite the Wu'an Sect's limited influence in the capital, he would do everything in his power to help her.

He insisted she had him to rely on, and they would face any dangers together. Wiping away her tears, Jinxia joined Xie Xiao in setting off fireworks, finding a small moment of solace.

Episode 50 Recap

Yuan Jinxia, feeling exhausted and lamenting her failure to protect her only relative, Lin Ling, was comforted by Mr. Beggar. He reminded her that she was not the timid person she thought she was and insisted on facing any danger with her, declaring that for her sake, he was willing to make any sacrifice. Together, they decided to set off fireworks to momentarily forget their worries.

Meanwhile, the Emperor, feeling much better after taking Priest Lan Qingxuan's medicine, joked about living to 100 or even forever. He immediately ordered Eunuch Li to summon Lan Qingxuan, lifting his ban. Eunuch Li, eager to take credit, congratulated Lan Qingxuan and subtly requested one of the miraculous pills, which Lan Qingxuan provided with a warning not to take too many. At the same time, Lu Yi met with Deputy Grand Secretary Xu.

Lu Yi had observed a patch on Mr. Xu's court robe, which Mr. Xu explained was a metaphor: sometimes actions and visible integrity speak louder than words, especially when dealing with corrupt officials in other ministries like Revenue and Works. Lu Yi then presented Mr. Xu with problematic account books from the Salt Transport Commission, which his people had secretly investigated for half a year. These accounts showed huge losses and significant discrepancies compared to those submitted by Yan Shaoqiong.

Lu Yi suggested that if the Emperor saw these, Yan Shaoqiong's powerful Yan family connections might not be enough to save him. Mr. Xu agreed that this was a valuable opportunity to expose corruption, trusting the Emperor to draw his own conclusions. Yuan Jinxia and Mr. Beggar followed the carriage, which Yuan Jinxia recognized from the Yan mansion and found Lin Ling's pomade on its wheel, to a house. Yuan Jinxia believed Lin Ling was being held inside.

Mr. Beggar initially wanted to rush in, but Yuan Jinxia cautioned him against a reckless daytime entry, especially since Yan Shifan had just entered. They decided to wait until nightfall to investigate together, believing they would be less likely to be found. Separately, Lan Qingxuan, now free from his ban, met with Lu Yi after sending him a message by dove.

Lu Yi advised them to meet less frequently, suspecting that Yan Shifan was directly targeting Lan Qingxuan and was responsible for the death of the White Deer. Lan Qingxuan confirmed that Yan Shifan's people had attempted to recruit him. Lan Qingxuan noticed Lu Yi's continued sadness and correctly guessed he was still grieving over Yuan Jinxia. He quoted a poem, and Lu Yi admitted his sorrow, primarily wanting to spare Yuan Jinxia from sadness.

Lan Qingxuan urged Lu Yi to "go get her back." As night fell, Yuan Jinxia and Mr. Beggar cautiously infiltrated the house. They found a maid and, without resorting to violence, questioned her about a woman in her thirties. The maid led them to a secret room where Lin Ling was indeed confined. Aunt Ling was shocked to see them and immediately urged them to leave, acknowledging the immense danger. Yuan Jinxia, however, insisted on saving her aunt.

As they attempted to leave, they suddenly detected a strange smell and realized they had been drugged. Their bodies went limp, and they collapsed to the ground just as Yan Shifan entered. Yan Shifan confronted Yuan Jinxia, mockingly asking if Lin Ling was her aunt and if her mother was Lin He. Yuan Jinxia initially denied knowing Lin He, but Yan Shifan picked up a sword and placed it at Mr. Beggar’s neck, threatening to kill him.

Seeing Mr. Beggar in imminent danger, Yuan Jinxia tearfully admitted that Lin He was her mother, begging Yan Shifan not to harm them. Yan Shifan ignored her pleas and ordered his men to take Yuan Jinxia away, then commanded them to brutally beat Mr. Beggar. Lin Ling, horrified, begged them to stop and pleaded with Yan Shifan to release them.

Yan Shifan offered a cruel deal: if Lin Ling agreed to stay by his side willingly, he would release Mr. Beggar. Mr. Beggar, battered and spitting blood, eventually fainted from the beating. Terrified, Lin Ling frantically agreed to Yan Shifan's demand, then pushed him away to check on Mr. Beggar, apologizing profusely to him. Yuan Jinxia later woke up to find herself and Mr. Beggar tied in a room.

Mr. Beggar, severely injured, tried to cover her escape, but she refused, insisting they leave together despite his internal injuries making it difficult for him to move. Amidst a heavy snowfall in the Forbidden City, Lu Yi presented his investigation findings to the Emperor. The Emperor was furious upon learning that officials in the Ministry of Works had been deceiving him and taking kickbacks.

Deputy Grand Secretary Xu presented two account books for the Ministry of Revenue, showing a 3,000 tael discrepancy and huge losses in salt transport. Yan Shaoqiong, who was in charge of the Salt Distribution Commission, blamed Japanese pirates and accused Xu of framing him. However, Xu countered that Yan Shaoqiong had imposed more taxes without applying for reductions, leading to public complaints, and only recorded half of the collected taxes.

The Emperor questioned Yan Shaoqiong’s involvement in the temple construction and discovered that Grand Secretary Yan had ordered it. Despite Grand Secretary Yan attempting to distance himself from the scandal, the Emperor ordered Yan Shaoqiong's immediate imprisonment in the Imperial Prison and subsequently decreed a three-year tax exemption for the Liangzhe Circuit.

At his mansion, Yan Shifan, realizing that Deputy Grand Secretary Xu was an "old fox," correctly deduced that Lu Yi must have provided the damaging salt transport account books, admitting he had underestimated Lu Yi. Meanwhile, in the Imperial Prison, Lu Yi interrogated Yan Shaoqiong, who stubbornly refused to confess, denying any wrongdoing beyond accepting bribes and insisting he knew nothing of Sima Chang'an.

Lu Yi countered by revealing his knowledge of Yan Shaoqiong's close ties to certain salt merchants and the exorbitant bribes required for salt transport licenses. Lu Yi then ordered Cen Fu to present a gun that General Yu had recovered from Mao Haifeng’s stronghold. Lu Yi pointed out a unique spring inside the gun, explaining that it matched those made by Sima Chang'an, whose illegally excavated iron ore had a distinct quality.

Lu Yi revealed that Sima Chang'an had been making gun components and colluding with Japanese pirates under the pretense of salt transport. He pressed Yan Shaoqiong to name the real mastermind, hinting that the "real Sima Chang'an" was someone else, and threatening to report Yan Shaoqiong as an accomplice to the Emperor if he continued to protect the true culprit. Back in Yang Chengwan's household, Ms. Yuan arrived, distraught that Yuan Jinxia had not returned home last night.

Yang Yue realized that both Jinxia and Mr. Beggar must have secretly gone to rescue Lin Ling. Yang Chengwan expressed his regret, recalling Jinxia's earlier intuition about Lin Ling being held in another Yan family property and his refusal to send men to investigate then. He knew they couldn't rescue them alone and instructed Yang Yue to seek Lu Yi's help, despite Yang Yue's doubts due to Jinxia and Lu Yi's recent breakup.

Soon after, Shangguan Xi and Xie Xiao arrived, also expressing their anxiety about Jinxia and Mr. Beggar’s disappearance, concurring that their only hope was Lu Yi given Yan Shifan’s vast influence. Lu Yi, meanwhile, was discussing Yan Shaoqiong's interrogation with his father, Lu Ting. Lu Yi admitted he still lacked "hard evidence" against Yan Shifan for colluding with Japanese pirates and saw Yan Shaoqiong as his best lead.

Lu Ting cautioned him, explaining that Yan Shaoqiong, though greedy, was a stubborn scholar fiercely loyal to the Yan family, making him difficult to break. Lu Ting also warned Lu Yi against using "abnormal means" to extract a confession, as the Emperor's inherent distrust could make such tactics backfire on them. Seeing his father's declining health, Lu Yi expressed concern and promised not to act recklessly, offering to handle such matters to ease his father's burden.

Soon, Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue arrived at the North Bureau to deliver the urgent news of Yuan Jinxia's disappearance. Yang Yue explained how Jinxia had previously located Lin Ling's place of detention but had been refused assistance by her father, suggesting Jinxia and Mr. Beggar were likely trapped there. Lu Yi, visibly anxious, called Jinxia "too bold" for sneaking into Yan Shifan's property.

He immediately went to the Yan family mansion, directly confronting Yan Shifan and asking if Constable Yuan had been there looking for Doctor Lin. Yan Shifan feigned ignorance, claiming no knowledge of Yuan Jinxia's whereabouts, which Lu Yi countered by bringing up Yan Shifan's recent recapture of Doctor Lin, reminding him of the Embroidered Uniform Guard's rules regarding evidence for such actions.

Episode 51 Recap

Lu Yi confronts Yan Shifan about Yuan Jinxia's whereabouts. Yan Shifan feigns ignorance, but Lu Yi, anticipating this, states he only came to make it clear that he knows Yan Shifan is responsible and will now find her using his own methods. Meanwhile, enraged that Lu Yi and Xu Jing had his relative Yan Shaoqiong imprisoned, Yan Shifan vows not to swallow the insult and prepares to unleash a cruel "play" he has devised for Lu Yi.

Yan Shifan has Yuan Jinxia bound to a torture device. He taunts her, claiming he initially liked her and might have shown mercy, but Lu Yi's opposition to his family has forced his hand. He tells her to direct any hatred toward Lu Yi. Yuan Jinxia defiantly retorts that she and Lu Yi are no longer together and he cannot be threatened.

Amused, Yan Shifan reveals that Lu Yi had just been there looking for her and proposes a cruel bet on whether Lu Yi will go to great lengths to save her. To underscore the stakes, he begins driving a nail into her body. Despite the torment, Yuan Jinxia curses him and vows to avenge her family.

Yan Shifan then delivers a shocking revelation: it was Lu Yi's own father, Lu Ting, who forced Qiu Cheng to write the impeachment letter years ago, making the Lu family as much her enemy as the Yan family. Yuan Jinxia refuses to believe him, but Yan Shifan insists she can ask Lu Yi herself, provided she survives. He then removes her hair stick and instructs his subordinate, Yan Feng, to continue the torture.

Lu Yi successfully rescues Lin Ling and Mr. Beggar from their captivity but finds that Yuan Jinxia has already been taken elsewhere. A distraught Lin Ling wishes to beg Yan Shifan for Jinxia's life, but Lu Yi stops her, explaining that her desperation is exactly what Yan Shifan wants to see. He instructs Yang Yue to settle Lin Ling and Mr. Beggar and inform Xie Xiao, while he returns to the North Bureau to organize a search.

Enraged by the escape, Yan Shifan orders Jinxia's hair stick to be delivered to Lu Yi. Upon receiving the hair stick from Yan Feng, Lu Yi senses the grave danger Jinxia is in and rushes to Yan Shifan's mansion. At the mansion, Yan Shifan relishes Lu Yi's anxious state and cruelly describes the torture method he is using on Jinxia: an instrument with spikes designed to drain blood slowly, ensuring a prolonged and agonizing death.

As his condition for her release, Yan Shifan demands Yan Shaoqiong's confession. Lu Yi immediately returns to his father, Lu Ting, and desperately asks for the document. Lu Ting initially refuses, emphasizing its importance as evidence against Yan Shaoqiong. In a rare act of desperation, Lu Yi kneels before his father, shocking Lu Ting with his "indulgence in love." Lu Ting remains firm, arguing the confession is crucial and cannot be surrendered.

Lu Yi counters that Jinxia is already dying and reminds his father of his own mother's tragic death, declaring he will not allow someone else to die because of him. Finally, Lu Yi reveals that the woman Yan Shifan holds is Xia Ran's granddaughter. This revelation stuns Lu Ting, who, moved by guilt over the Xia family's fate, relents. He hands over the confession and promises to send his own men to search Yan Shifan's known safehouses.

Weakened by the torture, Yuan Jinxia clings to consciousness, determined to survive and uncover the truth, all while wondering if rescue will come. Meanwhile, Lu Yi returns to Yan Shifan with the confession. He demands to know Jinxia's location, but Yan Shifan insists on receiving the confession first, coldly remarking on her likely imminent death. Lu Yi hands it over, and Yan Shifan immediately tears it to shreds. He then demands that Lu Yi beg him.

With a trembling voice, Lu Yi complies. Unsatisfied, Yan Shifan points to the ground, compelling Lu Yi to kneel. After a tense internal struggle, Lu Yi drops to his knees, to the astonishment of his subordinate, Cen Fu. Yan Shifan erupts in cackling laughter, taunting the famously proud Lu Yi for kneeling for a woman.

He gives Lu Yi a final clue: he wants Jinxia to "die with her family," and Lu Yi must guess the location himself, warning that any delay will mean finding a corpse. Lu Yi instantly deduces the location is the abandoned Xia Mansion. At the same time, Lin Ling, Yang Chengwan, Yang Yue, and Xie Xiao learn the news and also rush to the mansion. The group frantically searches the dilapidated grounds.

Lu Yi notices an unusual detail: water is still flowing in a landscaping feature despite the house being deserted for over a decade. He investigates and finds a hidden mechanism. Upon activating it, Yuan Jinxia's tortured body, covered in spikes, emerges from the water. Once Jinxia is safe, Lin Ling begins the painstaking process of removing the numerous spikes from her body, while Lu Yi watches in anguish. Jinxia remains pale and unconscious.

Lin Ling advises everyone to leave to allow Jinxia to recover in peace, but Lu Yi insists on staying by her side. Left alone with the unconscious Jinxia, he recalls a past moment when she asked if he felt sorry for her, and he now silently admits to himself how deeply he does. Later, Mrs. Yuan is relieved to learn from Lin Ling that Jinxia's life is no longer in danger.

Seeing Lu Yi's unwavering vigil, she expresses her quiet hope for their future. After two days without sleep, Lu Yi is still by Jinxia's bedside when she finally awakens. Recognizing he saved her, Jinxia, remembering Yan Shifan's bet and Lu Yi's previous declaration that they were separated, asks him why he came back for her. Lu Yi is left flustered and speechless. When Lin Ling enters with medicine, he hastily finds an excuse to depart. Meanwhile, Lu Ting's health worsens.

He informs Lu Yi that without the confession, the Emperor released Yan Shaoqiong, strengthening Yan Song's faction. Yan Shifan is surprised to learn of Jinxia's survival but is confident that Lu Yi remains ignorant of the new, explosive secret Jinxia now knows about the feud between their families. As Yang Yue prepares restorative porridge for Jinxia, Shangguan Xi laments the difficult path ahead for the couple, hoping they can overcome their obstacles.

Episode 52 Recap

When Lu Yi's ally, Lan Qingxuan, learned that Lu Yi had exchanged evidence of Yan Shaoqiong's corruption for Yuan Jinxia's life, he was displeased, warning Lu Yi that Yan Shifan had found his weakness and would exploit it. Lu Yi, however, asserted that Jinxia was both his soft spot and his armor, giving him the power to fight even if she was the reason he sometimes had to yield.

He explained that while desperation to save Jinxia initially clouded his judgment, he later found Yan Shifan's actions strange. Yan Shifan had known about Lu Yi's feelings for Jinxia for some time but had held back, saving this leverage for a more critical moment. Lu Yi was surprised Yan Shifan would play such a valuable card for a minor figure like Yan Shaoqiong.

He deduced that Yan Shaoqiong must possess dangerous information against Yan Shifan—likely evidence of his collusion with Japanese pirates under the alias Sima Chang'an—which forced Yan Shifan’s hand. Yuan Jinxia regained enough strength to get out of bed, and Mr. Beggar's wounds also healed. The ordeal had changed Lin Ling's perspective; she now believed Jinxia's well-being was paramount. She planned to take Jinxia, Mr. Beggar, and Jinxia's mother to Fuzhou to escape the capital's turmoil.

Jinxia sighed, troubled by what Yan Shifan had told her. Meanwhile, Lu Yi, pained by the memory of Jinxia's suffering, resolved to accelerate his plans to eliminate Yan Shifan. He instructed Cen Fu to watch Yan Shaoqiong closely, convinced he held critical evidence that Lu Yi needed. As Jinxia's health improved, Yang Chengwan visited her. Jinxia directly asked him if Lu Ting had been the one who forced Qiu Cheng to frame her grandfather.

Under persistent questioning from both Jinxia and Lin Ling, Yang Chengwan reluctantly confirmed the truth. Years ago, Jinxia's grandfather, Xia Ran, had irrefutable evidence to impeach Lu Ting. Lu Ting begged Xia Ran to withdraw it, and the soft-hearted Xia Ran relented. However, the arrogant Lu Ting couldn't bear the humiliation and held a deep grudge. Jinxia was stunned to learn that the Lu family was also her enemy, and Lu Yi was the son of her foe.

Furious that Yang had kept this secret, Lin Ling declared that Jinxia must stay away from Lu Yi. At that moment, Lu Yi arrived. Jinxia confronted him, asking if he had known all along. Enraged, Lin Ling drew her blade to attack Lu Yi, proclaiming a son must pay his father's debts. Jinxia immediately shielded Lu Yi, unable to watch him be harmed despite her desire for revenge. She knelt and tearfully begged Lin Ling to let him go.

Heartbroken, Lin Ling relented but asked Jinxia if this was fair to the hundreds of lives lost from the Xia and Lin families. Trembling, Jinxia removed the wrist strap Lu Yi had given her and, wiping her tears, returned it to him, telling him never to seek her out again. Lu Ting summoned Jinxia to his residence. He observed that her features strongly resembled her grandfather, confirming he knew her identity.

Lu Ting claimed that Xia Ran's stubbornness would have led to his downfall regardless of his actions. Jinxia retorted that her grandfather was an upright official. Lu Ting confessed that he had once knelt and wept before Xia Ran to stop an impeachment, and his shame later turned to resentment. He admitted he was truly kneeling to his own ambition, and by the time he felt remorse, it was too late.

Offering Jinxia a knife, he said he would not resist if she sought vengeance. Jinxia refused, stating that true regret would be to clear her grandfather's name. In response, Lu Ting produced a scroll with the documents needed for Xia Ran's rehabilitation. He cautioned her that the current Emperor was too proud to admit error, advising her to wait for a new emperor to ascend the throne before presenting it. Just then, Lu Yi rushed in.

Lu Ting instructed Cen Fu to escort Jinxia out. Lu Yi managed to ask Jinxia if she was well, but she responded coldly and left. As Lu Ting began to scold Lu Yi for secretly visiting Jinxia's home at night, he collapsed. Lu Yi then learned his father was gravely ill with little time left. Jinxia showed the rehabilitation scroll to Yang Chengwan and Lin Ling, who stressed the need to keep it secret from Yan Shifan.

Yang Chengwan later visited Lu Ting, acknowledging his remorse. They spoke of the past; Yang recalled how Lu Ting had crippled him but spared his life, leaving him to live with guilt, while Lu Ting admitted to his own torment. They both lamented the cruel fate that had befallen Lu Yi and Jinxia. Later, as Jinxia pondered why Lu Ting had kept the scroll for so long, she sensed a presence outside.

Rushing out, she saw only Lu Yi's retreating back. She instinctively wanted to call out but was stopped by the deep-seated hatred between their families. Lu Ting gave Lu Yi a detailed blueprint, the culmination of a years-long plan to trap the Yan family, urging his son to wait for the right moment to present it to the Emperor. He confessed to understanding Lu Yi's resentment over his mother's death, admitting he had chosen his career over family.

As his cough worsened, Lu Ting expressed his regret that he would not live to see the Yan family's downfall. Before a doctor could arrive, he passed away. While on a case, Jinxia was informed by Yang Yue that Lu Ting had died. She froze, and though she worried for Lu Yi, she knew their future together was impossible. At the Lu mansion, Lu Yi wandered in a grief-stricken daze.

Jinxia came secretly to see him, her eyes filling with tears at his sorrow, but she instructed Cen Fu not to reveal her visit. Lu Yi reflected on his past, finally understanding that his father's apparent appeasement of the Yan family was a decade-long strategy to gather evidence for their destruction. He silently vowed to complete the mission his father had entrusted to him.

Episode 53 Recap

Upon hearing the news of Lu Ting's death, Yan Shifan's associates congratulated him, though he revealed he already knew. His men suggested getting rid of Lu Yi, but Yan Shifan identified the Daoist priest Lan Qingxuan as another significant threat. He noted that Lan Qingxuan, now the Emperor's favorite, had refused to join their faction, leading Yan Shifan to suspect Lan's motives for being close to His Majesty.

Shortly after, Lan Qingxuan visited Lu Yi's residence, expressing his condolences for Lu Ting's passing. Lu Yi then showed Lan Qingxuan a geomantic map his father had given him before his death. The map, he explained, revealed that Yan Shifan had built a house on a site with auspicious "waters of favor" and "waters of wealth," hinting at imperial ambitions. Lan Qingxuan praised Lu Ting's foresight in setting a trap for Yan Shifan.

However, Lu Yi decided against using the map immediately, believing their best course of action was to wait for the Emperor to gradually lose confidence in the Yan family. He proposed taking advantage of the imminent completion of the star observation temple to demoralize the Yan family, a plan Lan Qingxuan readily agreed to. The Emperor later summoned Lan Qingxuan for guidance. During a ritual, Lan Qingxuan, feigning possession by an immortal, delivered an oracle to the Emperor.

He declared that the country was in disarray because treacherous officials ruled while virtuous ones were neglected, and then explicitly wrote the character "Yan." Yan Shifan quickly learned of this but dismissed it as absurd. Confident in his network of informants around the Emperor, he decided to let the charade continue, believing a weakness in Lan Qingxuan's performance would eventually be exposed.

Soon after, Lan Qingxuan was arrested by guards from the Ministry of Justice, accused of peeking at an imperial decree while performing the planchette writing. Before being led away, he instructed his disciple to deliver the Emperor's elixir on schedule. Yan Shifan, upon hearing of the arrest, speculated that a rival had acted first to eliminate Lan Qingxuan. Learning the eunuch who denounced Lan Qingxuan had disappeared, Lu Yi suspected a cover-up and retrieved the eunuch's dossier to find him.

Cen Fu suggested enlisting Yuan Jinxia's help, but Lu Yi initially declined. However, Yuan Jinxia was already waiting outside. Once inside, she expressed her concern over Lan Qingxuan's imprisonment. Lu Yi explained that Yan Shifan had bribed the eunuch to frame Lan Qingxuan for deceiving the Emperor. Fearing Yan Shifan would torture Lan Qingxuan, Yuan Jinxia resolved to find the eunuch.

She deduced the man had likely fled with his payment, anticipating that Yan Shifan would try to silence him permanently. Believing the eunuch's retraction was the only way to save Lan Qingxuan, she set out to find him. Lu Yi instructed Cen Fu to give her the eunuch's archive and portrait to aid her search.

At the Ministry of Justice prison, Yan Shifan was angered to learn that Lan Qingxuan had not confessed despite a morning of interrogation and that the bribed eunuch had escaped. He vehemently ordered his subordinate, Yan Feng, to find the eunuch, stating that only the dead can keep secrets. He then went to the prison to witness the interrogation, ordering more intense torture.

As a red-hot brand was about to be applied, Lu Yi swiftly intervened, reminding the officials that the Emperor had only ordered an interrogation, not torture. Yan Shifan appeared, sarcastically mocking Lu Yi's "kindness" and Lan Qingxuan's resilience, claiming his "immortal" body was immune to ordinary punishments. Lu Yi warned the officials that they would face severe consequences if any harm came to Lan Qingxuan.

Yan Shifan, however, reassured them of his protection and instructed them to continue the torture, but to ensure Lan Qingxuan remained alive. Yuan Jinxia and Yang Yue visited the bribed eunuch's residence. Yuan Jinxia noted that while the house was dusty, fresh medicine residue suggested the family was hiding nearby due to the eunuch's serious illness.

Meanwhile, Yan Song presented a list of Taoist masters to the Emperor, who rejected them all, irritated that they were now advocating for Lan Qingxuan's punishment. The Emperor ordered the Ministry of Justice to conclude the case within ten days. Lu Yi visited Lan Qingxuan in prison and gave him a painkiller. Lan Qingxuan urged Lu Yi to arrange a meeting with the Emperor, confident he could resolve the situation if given the chance.

Later, upon hearing that Lan Qingxuan was gravely ill from unsanctioned torture, the enraged Emperor forbade any further torture. Constrained, Yan Shifan decided to keep Lan Qingxuan under surveillance, hoping to see who was backing him. Lu Yi met with Official Xu, who couldn't publicly advocate for Lan Qingxuan without implying collusion, as he was the one who had recommended him.

Xu candidly suggested that the best solution might be for Lan Qingxuan to die in prison, as this would completely erode the Emperor's trust in the Yan family. Lu Yi refused to abandon his friend, insisting on finding the eunuch. Soon after, officials orchestrated by Xu presented a memorial to the throne, impeaching Yan Shifan for a list of crimes. Unfazed, Yan Shifan convinced his father to "put on a play."

They knelt in the snow outside the palace, seeking an audience. Inside, the Emperor confided in Lu Yi, admitting he tolerated the Yan family's wrongdoings because of their loyalty and efficiency, and confessed that seeing the elderly Yan Song kneeling had softened his heart. Lu Yi bluntly warned that showing leniency to the infamous Yan Song would tarnish the Emperor's reputation.

The Emperor then confronted the Yans, scolding them before ordering them home and referring the case to the Three Judicial Offices. Relieved, Yan Shifan expressed confidence in his ability to manipulate the outcome. Lu Yi was informed by Cen Fu that Lan Qingxuan's condition was worsening from his previous injuries and the runaway eunuch had still not been found.

He also learned Yan Shifan was searching for the eunuch, prompting Lu Yi to intensify his own efforts to find him first. Shortly thereafter, the Six-Doors constables were ordered to clean the courtyard for Yan Shifan's arrival. Yuan Jinxia was furious at the audacity of a supposedly imprisoned official being treated like an honored guest. Yang Yue pulled her into a nearby room to prevent her from acting impulsively.

Yan Shifan arrived and, after choosing to dine in the courtyard, pointedly asked for Yuan Jinxia. During the meal, the officials from the Three Judicial Offices flattered him and negotiated his embezzlement charges down to a mere 800 taels of silver. At that moment, Lu Yi arrived, making the other officials nervous. Yan Shifan, dismissive, allowed him to enter. Lu Yi drily remarked on Yan Shifan's comfortable setup.

Yan Shifan provocatively asked if Lu Yi was worried about Yuan Jinxia, then brazenly confirmed the 800-tael figure and challenged Lu Yi to report it. He arrogantly declared, "He who laughs last is the winner." Lu Yi simply replied that Yan Shifan had a "good state of mind" and departed. From inside the room, Yuan Jinxia watched, silently wiping away tears, questioning if Lu Yi had any recourse besides showing weakness to his powerful foe.

Episode 54 Recap

Following Lu Yi’s failure to convince him to escape, Lan Qingxuan gives him a letter written in his own blood, explaining it is the last thing he can do to help him. Shortly after, Yan Shifan, though dismissed from office, arrives at the prison, having heard of a plot to substitute a prisoner. Lu Yi conceals the letter as Yan Shifan arrogantly confronts them. Lan Qingxuan curses Yan Shifan, predicting his downfall.

When Yan Shifan demands to know who is behind the plot, Lan Qingxuan defiantly claims his only master is "God Wuliang." Enraged, Yan Shifan draws his sword and holds it to Lan Qingxuan's neck. As Yan Shifan threatens him, Lan Qingxuan seizes the blade and slits his own throat, shocking everyone present. Yan Shifan immediately distances himself, proclaiming his innocence and claiming it was a suicide.

With his final breaths, Lan Qingxuan tells a distraught Lu Yi that this is a good end for a Taoist and urges him to "sacrifice a rook to save the king." He expresses his regret at not being able to see Lu Yi and Yuan Jinxia marry, imploring Lu Yi to cherish her and not miss the chance again. After asking to be sworn brothers in their next life, Lan Qingxuan dies, leaving Lu Yi overwhelmed with grief.

Meanwhile, Yuan Jinxia and Xie Xiao successfully apprehend the eunuch bribed by Yan Shifan, who confesses to framing Lan Qingxuan. Jinxia rushes to inform Lu Yi, only to be met with the devastating news of Lan Qingxuan's suicide. Stunned, she blames herself for not finding the eunuch sooner. When the Emperor learns of the death, he is furious. Lu Yi presents the eunuch’s confession and reports how Lan Qingxuan used Yan Shifan's own knife to kill himself.

Enraged by Yan Shifan's audacity, the Emperor orders Lu Yi and the Three Judicial Offices to investigate, places Yan Shifan under house arrest, confiscates his family's property, and dismisses Yan Song from his post, sending him back to his hometown. Unwilling to accept defeat, Yan Shifan vows to use Lan Qingxuan's death to accuse Lu Yi of colluding with the priest.

Before leaving the capital, Yan Song subtly informs the Emperor that Lu Yi and Lan Qingxuan were close friends and that Yan Shifan had rushed to the prison because he heard someone was attempting a prisoner swap. The Emperor, swayed, decides to secretly investigate Lingji Palace himself, advised by Li Gonggong that a direct summons might alert Lu Yi.

As their friends and family gather to celebrate the Yan family's downfall, Xie Xiao and Shangguan Xi express concern that the cunning Yan Shifan might still find a way to escape punishment. Meanwhile, Yan Shifan is shocked to learn Lu Yi has avoided punishment. A eunuch reports that the Emperor went to Lingji Palace but found Lu Yi refining elixirs using a formula from Lan Qingxuan’s blood letter, which appeased his anger.

Frustrated, Yan Shifan devises a new plot against Lu Yi. Later, Jinxia spots a man she recognizes as the pirate Pockmark Wang on the street. Though he claims to be a man named Luo Wenlong, she and Xie Xiao subdue him and deliver him to Lu Yi. Lu Yi interrogates Luo Wenlong, who is indeed Pockmark Wang. Under duress, Luo Wenlong confesses that letters proving Yan Shifan’s collusion with the pirate Mao Haifeng are hidden in his room.

Cen Fu retrieves the letters, but Lu Yi is suspicious, finding it too convenient. He has the paper analyzed by an expert, who confirms the letters are forgeries made with newly produced pulp. Just as the group realizes they nearly fell for Yan Shifan's trap, Zhai Lanye, who vanished after the battle at Cen Harbor, reappears. She reveals she is seeking revenge on Yan Shifan, who had "gifted" her to Mao Haifeng as punishment.

As a peace offering, she has brought them the captured Mao Haifeng himself. Though Zhai Lanye’s story is compelling, Lu Yi finds the timing of Mao Haifeng's arrival immediately after Luo Wenlong’s fake confession too coincidental to act on rashly. He decides to interrogate Mao Haifeng, provoking him with insults and showing him the forged letters in an attempt to glean genuine evidence.

Learning that Zhai Lanye has delivered Mao Haifeng to his enemies, a furious Yan Shifan orders his men to find her and discover what Lu Yi is planning. Elsewhere, Lu Yi meets with Xu Jing to finalize their strategy. While Xu Jing suggests charging Yan Shifan with treason for colluding with Japanese invaders, Lu Yi reveals his trump card: a document his father left him.

The document is irrefutable proof that Yan Shifan illegally built his residences on land with auspicious feng shui, a grave offense. Lu Yi asserts that adding this crime to the others will ensure Yan Shifan's execution, leaving no chance for survival. Back at his manor, Yan Shifan rages at his subordinates, frustrated by their inability to find Zhai Lanye or gain any intelligence on Lu Yi's plans.

Episode 55 (Ending) Recap

Lu Yi presented Emperor Jiajing with Yan Shifan's extensive crimes, including his collusion with Japanese pirates, his delivery of Cao Kun's military map to Mao Haifeng, his construction of houses on land with perfect "fengshui", and his abuses of power in the name of Sima Chang'an.

The Emperor, enraged by Yan Shifan's defiance and his attempts to overthrow the Ming Dynasty by collaborating with the enemy, declared that he would become the laughingstock of the world if he didn't punish Yan Shifan severely. Though a minister suggested execution in autumn, the Emperor deemed it too long and immediately ordered Li Fang to prepare an imperial edict for Yan Shifan's public execution, tasking Lu Yi and the Embroidered Uniform Guards with carrying it out.

When Lu Yi arrived at the Yan Mansion, Yan Shifan, arrogant to the last, assumed he was merely being taken to cooperate with an investigation, joking about Lu Yi's affection for Yuan Jinxia, a fugitive from the Xia Ran case. Lu Yi coldly told him to save his words for Hell, informing him of the imperial edict for his immediate execution due to his unpardonable wickedness.

Yan Shifan refused to believe it, demanding to see the edict, but Lu Yi reminded him of Mao Haifeng's letters and the "fengshui" land. As Yan Shifan was bound in chains and dragged through the streets, crowds of commoners shouted for his death. Yuan Jinxia, Lin Ling, and others watched the fallen tyrant, their hearts heavy yet relieved.

The executioner's blade fell, and Yan Shifan was beheaded, bringing an end to the long-standing vendetta for the Xia family and finally allowing Lan Qingxuan to rest in peace. Lu Yi also felt a profound sense of relief, acknowledging that this long-awaited day had finally arrived. From the crowd, Di Lanye silently departed, later erecting a tombstone for Yan Shifan in a desolate field.

Later, Beggar Uncle sought out Yuan Jinxia, asking about her future plans now that her revenge was complete. She spoke of working hard at Department Six and earning money to support her aunt and mother. However, Beggar Uncle was referring to Lu Yi, suggesting that he was introverted and that she shouldn't wait for him to make the first move, warning her not to have regrets. Yuan Jinxia, not ready to face him, tried to change the subject.

That night, Lu Yi entered Yuan Jinxia's room. He told her that since his father had wronged her family, he was determined to give her justice. Sensing his grim resolve, Jinxia grabbed his hand, but was too overwhelmed to speak. The following day, while Yuan Jinxia was apprehending a fugitive, Yang Yue rushed to her with grave news.

Cen Fu had informed him that Lu Yi had publicly attempted to redress the injustice of the Xia family's case during a royal banquet, enraging the Emperor. As a result, Lu Yi had been removed from office, his property confiscated, and he had been imprisoned. Panicked, Yuan Jinxia abandoned the fugitive and raced towards the Imperial Prison.

She then realized the true meaning behind Lu Yi's words, understanding he had planned this all along despite knowing the Emperor could not admit fault. Upon arriving at the prison, Yuan Jinxia was dismayed to find that even Cen Fu, who had also been dismissed, couldn't enter. She grew frantic, worrying about Lu Yi's well-being. Cen Fu, though worried, mentioned that most of the prison guards had once served under Lu Yi and might show him some mercy.

However, he then revealed the Emperor's order: Lu Yi was to be executed in autumn, and anyone who dared to intercede for him would be punished as an accomplice. Determined to see Lu Yi, Yuan Jinxia desperately rushed home and begged her mother for her dowry money. Her mother initially refused, fearing she would lose face if Yuan Jinxia married without it. Jinxia insisted she could marry without a dowry and, in desperation, knelt and pleaded.

When her mother learned Lu Yi was to be beheaded for the Xia Ran case, she finally relented, giving Yuan Jinxia not only her dowry but also her own pension money, prioritizing life over all else. With the money, Yuan Jinxia and Cen Fu were able to see Lu Yi. He sat there in a prisoner's uniform, a stark contrast to his usual impressive bearing.

Lu Yi explained that this was his own decision; as his father was tied to the extermination of the Xia family, he felt compelled to do something for Yuan Jinxia's clan. Yuan Jinxia countered that his father had already provided justice when he gave her the exoneration document. She admitted she had avoided him not out of hatred, but because she struggled to overcome the emotional hurdle, and vowed to get him out.

However, Lu Yi, disheartened, told her not to be foolish, to forget him and marry someone else. Furious, Yuan Jinxia reminded him that she had pre-paid six months of her salary and taken all her dowry money just to see him. Tears streaming down her face, she pleaded with him not to break his promise to marry her and not to give up, vowing to find ways to improve his conditions and secure his release.

Seeing her distress, Lu Yi gently took her hand, gazing at her tear-streaked face. As they sought ways to save Lu Yi, Xie Xiao impulsively suggested breaking into the prison. Cen Fu advised patience, suggesting Grand Secretary Xu Jing, though he feared Xu, a cunning man who had remained silent during his own teacher Xia Ran's downfall, might be unwilling to help. With no other options, Yuan Jinxia secretly infiltrated Xu Jing's mansion.

Xu Jing sternly warned her that the Emperor had forbidden any intercession. Yuan Jinxia then revealed their engagement before disclosing her true lineage: Xia Ran was her grandfather. Stunned, Xu Jing realized why Lu Yi had been so determined. Yuan Jinxia passionately argued that Lu Yi chose justice over power and that Xu, as Grand Secretary, could not stand by and watch a loyal official be wronged. Moved by her plea, Xu Jing agreed to try his best.

Soon after, Xu Jing risked his life to intercede. The Emperor commuted Lu Yi's death penalty to life imprisonment but forbade any visits without permission. Receiving the edict, Lu Yi was stunned, realizing how much that "silly girl" Yuan Jinxia must have done for him. Later, Xie Xiao came to bid Jinxia farewell, informing her he was joining General Qi Weigang to fight the Japanese pirates, and comforted her that Lu Yi would be alright.

Yuan Jinxia expressed her gratitude and declared that no matter how difficult, she would wait for him. True to her word, she tried to bribe the guards with her salary, but was refused entry. Unable to enter, she shouted towards the prison walls, telling Lu Yi to eat well and that she would be back. On the Mid-Autumn Festival, she brought mooncakes to the guards and asked one to deliver a special one to Lu Yi.

Inside, he found a small note: "I'll wait for you." A tearful smile touched his lips as he ate the mooncake. Time passed. Shangguan Xi and Yang Yue were married and soon expecting a child. Meanwhile, Emperor Jiajing frequently dreamt of Lu Ting, vividly recalling how Lu Ting had saved his life from a fire. Prompted by these dreams and a severe drought, the Emperor blamed himself and issued a general amnesty.

Amidst a heavy winter snowfall, Yuan Jinxia stood faithfully outside the Imperial Prison. Just as she considered leaving, the gates opened and Lu Yi emerged. After a moment of shock, she ran towards him. Holding hands, they began their journey home. Along the way, Yuan Jinxia playfully planned how she would support him, but Lu Yi informed her that the Emperor had reinstated him to his former position. Yuan Jinxia's eyes sparkled as she asked for a pay raise.

Lu Yi smiled, telling her that once they were married, all his money would be hers to manage. Postscript: In the early years of Emperor Muzong's Longqing reign, the Xia Ran family's plea for justice was finally heard and their names were officially cleared.