Wild Ambition Bloom Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Wild Ambition Bloom Synopsis
In 1916, Chu Shaohua marries Chen Dashun, the eldest son of the Chen family pharmacy, to save her brother Chu Shaozhong. With her integrity and sharp business skills, she earns the trust of the Chen patriarch and becomes the pharmacy’s manager. After the sudden deaths of Chen Dashun and his father, Chen Ershun inherits the shop but squanders its wealth, leaving the business on the brink of collapse.
Through hardship, Shaohua opens Huashun Pharmacy to support the entire family. Hoping to start anew with her first love, Xia Chu, she faces fierce opposition from Chen Ershun and the Chen matriarch. When bandits raid the Chen household, Shaohua loses her daughter in the tragedy. Heartbroken, she leaves for Shanghai, where she excels at Yongxin Department Store. Invited by the brilliant entrepreneur Wen Zhiqiu to join forces, she gradually grows into a courageous and trustworthy businesswoman.
Wild Ambition Bloom Recap
Episode 1 Recap
In 1916, the bustling Qizhou herbal market drew crowds. Chu Shaohua and her friend Kang Erniu explored the vibrant stalls. Chu Shaohua, captivated by the array of traditional Chinese medicines, found herself lingering. When Xia Yuan, the owner of Shouyuan Apothecary, arrived with his wife, people respectfully parted, inspiring Chu Shaohua to vow to one day become as influential as him. As she watched the couple depart, she realized Kang Erniu had disappeared.
While searching for her friend, a horse pulling a cart full of herbs became startled, stampeding through the panicked crowd. Chu Shaohua, witnessing a small girl named Niuniu trembling in the path of the runaway cart, bravely rushed forward and pulled her to safety. Niuniu’s mother quickly arrived, expressing her gratitude. Chu Shaohua then helped the carter gather the scattered herbs, noticing the Huangqi was, in fact, alfalfa roots. She discreetly followed the cart to Tang's Apothecary.
At Tang's Apothecary, Chen Dashun was about to purchase the suspicious herbs. Chu Shaohua quietly advised him to compare prices before making a payment. Tang Yaoji, the owner, became enraged, yelling at her for meddling in his business and calling her a jinx. Unfazed, Chu Shaohua publicly exposed his fraudulent practice of selling dyed alfalfa roots as Huangqi, detailing the tell-tale signs on the herb's surface and cross-section.
Tang Yaoji, after examining the goods, claimed he was framed by the Qizhou Trade Guild and that the Guandong Trade Guild, which he represented, never sold fakes. He pointed out the crude and sloppy secret mark on the sacks, which he argued was a forgery. Chen Dashun, witnessing Chu Shaohua's sharp eye, was deeply impressed.
Chu Shaohua eventually found Kang Erniu, who had bought her a fried flatbread, but looked flushed and admitted she had something to tell her in a few days. Upon returning to her family’s Chichun Apothecary, Chu Shaohua discovered her elder brother, Chu Shaozhong, had purchased eight sacks of Huangqi for 400 silver dollars, confident of a 50-dollar commission upon resale.
He dismissed her concerns about not using a reputable broker like Anke Hall, assuring her that he had personally inspected the "real" goods and avoided the broker's commission. When Chu Shaohua questioned where he got such a large sum of money, he vaguely mentioned using family accounts and "finding a way to raise some more."
Meanwhile, the conflict over the fake Huangqi escalated between the Guandong Trade Guild, led by Yang Sanye, and the Qizhou Trade Guild, led by Xia Yuan. Xia Yuan, denying direct involvement, revealed he had strategically spread word that he would buy Huangqi at a high price. Chu Shaozhong, lured by the offer, became caught in Xia Yuan's trap when he tried to sell the stolen Huangqi.
Xia Yuan then handed Chu Shaozhong over to Yang Sanye to restore the Guandong Trade Guild's reputation. Despite Chu Shaozhong's desperate pleas that he had paid 400 silver dollars for the Huangqi, he was tied up on Yaowang Temple Street for three days, facing public humiliation and eventual execution. Chu Shaohua rushed to his side, pleading with the angry crowd to stop throwing rotten vegetables and eggs at him, and promised to save him.
Chu Shaohua attempted to speak with Yang Sanye but was turned away by a guard who mentioned the Guandong Trade Guild's secret mark on the sacks. Determined, Chu Shaohua sought information from her brother, learning he bought the Huangqi from a Mr. Huang from the northwest, who had stayed at the Yunlai Inn but had since left.
She then tracked down carter Dazhu from the Tongda Carriage Firm, who remembered transporting the eight piculs of Huangqi from a household in Maliu Village, fifty li south. Reaching the deserted house, Chu Shaohua found alfalfa roots, dyes, tools, and sacks bearing crudely forged Guandong Trade Guild marks, confirming it was the fake Huangqi production site. The landlord corroborated that a man from the northwest, not Chu Shaozhong, had rented the property.
Armed with irrefutable evidence, Chu Shaohua confronted Yang Sanye once more. She argued that if Chu Shaozhong were truly involved, she wouldn't have exposed the fake Huangqi at the market. She presented the evidence from Maliu Village—the leftover materials and the sacks with their sloppily forged Guandong Trade Guild mark, identical to the ones at Tang's Apothecary.
She logically pointed out that if her brother had indeed intended to forge the mark and swap the goods, he would have replaced the sacks when selling the real Huangqi instead of leaving the incriminating evidence. Chu Shaohua concluded that her brother had merely bought stolen goods unknowingly and that by punishing him, Yang Sanye would be letting the real culprit go free. Convinced by her sharp reasoning and irrefutable evidence, Yang Sanye released Chu Shaozhong.
On their way home, Chu Shaozhong and Chu Shaohua were intercepted by loan sharks. Shaozhong confessed that 360 of the 400 silver dollars for the Huangqi were borrowed at a five li rate, due in half a month. Now, with the repayment three days overdue, the debt had swelled to 390 silver dollars, including principal, interest, and penalties. The loan sharks threatened to cut off Chu Shaozhong's hand and foot if the full amount wasn't paid within three days.
Distraught, Chu Shaohua’s mother and sister-in-law, Yan, panicked. Yan suggested selling the Chichun Apothecary, but Chu Shaohua fiercely resisted, proclaiming it their family's three-generation legacy. Her mother, however, heartbroken and desperate, agreed to sell it if it meant saving her son. Chu Shaohua, recalling her grandfather's wisdom about the Miracle Pills and his philosophy of self-reliance ("A man of honor always keeps striving, like heaven never stops moving"), vowed not to let the family legacy be sold.
She desperately tried to borrow money from neighbors, but only managed to secure a small sum. Soon after, a neighbor, Mrs. San, delivered news: Master Chen and Chen Dashun were coming the next day to discuss the marriage previously arranged by their grandfathers. Yan saw this as a lifeline, hoping the betrothal gifts could save Chu Shaozhong.
The next morning, as Yan tried to prepare a reluctant Chu Shaohua for the meeting, attempting to make her wear the old engagement bracelet, Master Chen and Chen Dashun arrived earlier than expected. Chen Dashun immediately recognized Chu Shaohua as the insightful woman from the market who saved him from buying fake goods, and was clearly pleased.
However, Master Chen, citing changing times and the younger generation's preference for free love, subtly tried to back out of the arrangement, expressing concerns about being entangled in the Chu family's current troubles. Yan, insistent, pleaded with him to finalize the marriage. Despite her efforts, Master Chen departed abruptly, leaving the family in despair.
Yan lashed out at Chu Shaohua, accusing her of deliberately sabotaging the marriage and of being selfish and ungrateful, while her mother tearfully begged her to save Chu Shaozhong. Unbeknownst to them, Chen Dashun confessed to his father his admiration for Chu Shaohua and her cleverness at the market, expressing a desire to marry her.
His father, while acknowledging Chu Shaohua's qualities, remained concerned about the financial burden of her family and decided to stall the marriage, hoping the Chu family would eventually withdraw. However, Chu Shaohua took matters into her own hands. She pursued Master Chen and Chen Dashun and proactively ended the engagement, returning the betrothal token. She eloquently explained that given the disparity in their families' fortunes, and to avoid future resentment, it was better to part ways.
She further instructed Master Chen not to yield to any demands from her mother or sister-in-law, clarifying that the breakup was her decision and that no compensation was expected. She even offered to handle her family if they persisted in their demands. When Master Chen offered financial assistance, Chu Shaohua politely declined, stating her father’s ruin and her brother’s recent troubles stemmed from easy money and unrealistic expectations, and that she would not accept unearned wealth.
Instead, she boldly requested a job, highlighting her skills in abacus, arithmetic, writing, and basic medicine. Impressed by her intelligence and integrity, Master Chen reconsidered. He not only re-affirmed the marriage but set the wedding date for the 18th of the fifth month, returning the betrothal token to Chu Shaohua. Later that night, Kang Erniu came to bid Chu Shaohua farewell.
She revealed she was eloping to Peking with Wu, who previously worked at Shouyuan Apothecary, explaining her earlier secretive behavior. Chu Shaohua expressed concern, warning her about the risks of leaving with someone she had only known for a month and the possibility of being let down. But Kang Erniu was resolute, admitting she was terrified of being trapped in her village, either beaten by her father or sold off as an old man’s concubine.
She saw eloping with Wu as her only chance to escape her fate and experience a different life, reminding Chu Shaohua of her own past fears of being confined. On the auspicious day of May 18th, as Chu Shaohua prepared for her wedding to Chen Dashun, her thoughts drifted to her childhood sweetheart, Xia Chu, Xia Yuan's younger brother. She remembered their secret vows and the whistle he had given her as a token.
He had encouraged her to pursue her dreams and promised to show her the outside world upon his return. However, news had arrived that Xia Chu, a revolutionary, had tragically died in an assassination attempt, blowing himself up. With a heavy heart, Chu Shaohua put away the whistle, a symbol of a past dream, and adorned herself with the bracelet from the Chen family, embracing her new reality.
Episode 2 Recap
The Chen family was adorned with lights and firecrackers, celebrating a double wedding for Chen Dashun and Chen Ershun. Relatives and friends arrived to offer their congratulations. In the kitchen, Chen Madam oversaw the preparations, admonishing the staff to use less oil and cut the meat into smaller pieces, complaining about the use of fancy flour instead of coarse.
As the bridal sedans approached the village gate, Master Chen gently led his wife away from the kitchen to greet the guests. Dashun and Ershun, with their respective brides, paid their respects to their parents before heading to their bridal chambers. Dashun's friends eagerly burst into his room, clamoring to see the bride. Dashun lifted Shaohua's red veil, and her beauty left his friends speechless. Dashun, with some effort, persuaded them to leave.
Alone with Shaohua, Dashun confessed that he had been anticipating this day ever since he first saw her at the Qizhou Medicine Market. Shaohua then realized he was the buyer who had purchased the fake Huangqi from Tang's Apothecary. Dashun expressed his regret for not learning her name then and swore to be devoted to her for life. Meanwhile, Ershun returned to his bridal chamber, annoyed that Song Ping’s family had provided such a small dowry.
He curtly sent his friends away and then bossily told Song Ping to remove his shoes, instructing her to reflect on her actions. The next morning, Shaohua awoke to find Dashun already up. They went to greet Master Chen and Chen Madam. Ershun and Song Ping arrived shortly after. Chen Madam immediately expressed her displeasure with Shaohua for being late, asserting that the Chen family had strict rules, unlike Shaohua's previous home.
Dashun quickly interjected, taking the blame by explaining he had drunk too much the night before and asked Shaohua to massage his aching head, which caused their delay. Chen Madam then assigned Shaohua to prepare breakfast for the family, refusing to tell her anyone’s preferences and instead telling her to decide for herself. She then deliberately sent Shaohua outside to fetch firewood, despite there being plenty inside.
While Shaohua was gone, Chen Madam instructed Song Ping to secretly take a jar of sugar. When Shaohua presented breakfast, Chen Madam revealed that Master Chen preferred sweet dishes, an important detail she had withheld. Dashun again stepped in, apologizing for forgetting to inform Shaohua of his father’s preference.
Fortunately, Shaohua had anticipated this and had prepared several sweet dishes, including pumpkin cakes, fruit porridge, sweet rice wine dumplings, and yam and red bean paste, after finding no sugar in the kitchen. Master Chen was delighted and praised her cooking. Ershun, however, was critical of Song Ping. Shaohua, suspecting Chen Madam's manipulation, made a pointed comment about a superstition that whoever steals sugar will suffer a violent death.
Ershun added to the tale, recounting a story of a man who died bleeding from every orifice after stealing sugar. Terrified, Song Ping fled, with Ershun pursuing her. Ershun confronted Song Ping outside their room, finding her with the sugar jar. Song Ping claimed Chen Madam had given it to her, but Chen Madam quickly denied it, warning her not to speak nonsense.
Ershun became enraged and attempted to strike Song Ping, but Master Chen intervened, ordering them both back to their room. Later that night, Ershun beat Song Ping, and her cries for help could be heard. Chen Madam, while acknowledging Song Ping as her niece, complained about her clumsiness and the damage she had caused. Shaohua, unable to bear Song Ping’s suffering, called her to their room to tend to her wounds.
Song Ping admitted that Chen Madam had made her believe Shaohua was trying to dominate her. Shaohua explained that as they had entered the family on the same day, they were like sisters and should support each other, not compete. Moved by Shaohua's words, Song Ping understood. Dashun assured Song Ping that he had spoken to Ershun, and Song Ping thanked both of them. For the traditional "returning home" visit, Chen Madam prepared two gifts of pastries for the brides.
While claiming they were identical, Song Ping suggested she and Shaohua swap their boxes; Shaohua, noticing a difference between them, agreed. Master Chen observed his wife's subtle manipulation and warned her against such favoritism in the future. At Shaohua’s family home, her mother, brother Shaozhong, and sister-in-law welcomed them. Shaohua learned from her sister-in-law that Dashun had generously redeemed the land Shaozhong had pawned. Shaozhong and his wife then tried to ingratiate themselves with Dashun, praising his growing business.
They brazenly proposed joining the Chen family's medicine trade with a merchant in Hankou, even asking Dashun to front their capital. Shaohua firmly opposed the idea, stating that her brother was not suited for business and shouldn't scheme. Dashun, however, saw his in-laws as family and was inclined to help. Shaohua’s mother pulled her aside, and Shaohua reiterated her staunch refusal to let her brother participate in Chen’s business on such terms.
On their way back, Shaohua discovered that Dashun had secretly given Shaozhong a sum of money. She felt uneasy and cautioned Dashun not to front any capital for her brother’s business ventures. Dashun, explaining that he simply wanted her family to be comfortable so she would be happy, initially seemed ready to help Shaozhong, but Shaohua firmly told him that "that's not how it works." On the journey back, Sanshou Gang bandits ambushed their carriage.
Dashun offered all his money, pleading with them not to harm Shaohua. The bandits took all their money and Shaohua’s jewelry. When one of the bandits, Scarface, began to harass Shaohua, Dashun fiercely fought him off. Shaohua, seizing an opportunity, grabbed a bandit's gun and threatened the leader, ordering his men to drop their weapons. She then instructed Luo, the coachman, to help the injured Dashun back into the carriage and forced the bandit leader to drive them away.
After driving a considerable distance, Shaohua kicked the bandit leader out of the carriage, threw his gun to the ground, and told Luo to quickly drive them home. Back at the Chen residence, Master Chen immediately summoned a doctor to attend to Dashun's wounds. The doctor confirmed that despite the severity of the injuries, Dashun's life was not in danger and he would make a full recovery with proper care.
Chen Madam, distraught, blamed Shaohua, claiming Dashun’s injuries were her fault for insisting on going home. Master Chen quickly silenced her, having learned from Dashun that Shaohua had bravely held the bandit leader hostage, saving them both. He expressed concern that the Sanshou Gang would seek revenge after such a humiliating encounter and strictly ordered Luo and everyone present to keep the incident a secret. Shaohua attentively nursed Dashun back to health.
Once Dashun had recovered, he and Shaohua discussed their future. Shaohua expressed her desire to be actively involved in business, doing "things men get to do" and seeing "the world beyond." Master Chen had already decided to take Dashun to Peking for business and was now contemplating having Shaohua join them. Chen Madam, however, objected, believing Shaohua was still too wild and would be a source of embarrassment.
Master Chen then revealed his plan to move the entire family to Peking, explaining it was necessary to "lay low" as the Sanshou Gang, having suffered such a significant setback at the hands of Dashun and Shaohua, would undoubtedly seek retaliation. He cautioned that "walls have ears" and a swift, but calm, departure was essential before the bandits discovered their whereabouts. Before the move, Shaohua visited a grave marked "In Memory of My Younger Brother, Xia Chu."
She spoke aloud, declaring her impending journey to Peking and her desire to see the outside world, stating that "what's done is done." To her astonishment, Xia Chu suddenly appeared before her, alive. Shaohua was speechless. Xia Chu explained that on the day of the assassination, he had given his coat, which contained his identification papers, to his freezing comrade, Nie. The bomb exploded prematurely, and everyone mistakenly believed it was Xia Chu who had died.
Shaohua, still reeling from the shock, told him she was married to Dashun, who treated her very well. Upon returning home, Shaohua was met by a disgruntled Chen Madam, who complained about Shaohua's disrespectful disappearance, fearing the trouble such a "wild" daughter-in-law might cause in Peking. Dashun, noticing Shaohua's cold hands, pulled her aside and instructed her not to say anything to his parents, promising to handle the situation.
He then announced to his parents that Shaohua had been running an errand for him. He fabricated a story about discovering an accounting error at Baoshu Hall, claiming his leg injuries prevented him from going himself, so he sent Shaohua. He produced a fabricated receipt as proof. Master Chen, seeing through Dashun's lie, accepted the story for the sake of peace.
Later, Master Chen took Dashun aside and advised him that while it was commendable to love his wife, he must also learn to "control her," remarking that capable women often possess strong personalities.
Episode 3 Recap
Song Ping brought a bowl of soup to Chu Shaohua, mentioning that Chen Dashun had gone out to meet Xia Chu. Alarmed, Chu Shaohua immediately suspected Xia Chu intended to confront Chen Dashun and rushed to the meeting place. Upon her arrival, she witnessed Xia Chu urging Chen Dashun to release her, claiming Chen Dashun didn't truly know her desires and couldn't keep her confined.
Chu Shaohua intervened, sternly telling Xia Chu that their past agreement was long over and she owed him nothing. She declared she was married and had a new life, which she would lead on her own terms, free from his interference. She asserted that she didn't need anyone to "let her go" or "save her," as her choices were her own. Then, she took Chen Dashun and returned home.
After much deliberation, Chen Dashun felt he was not good enough for Chu Shaohua. He spent the night writing a divorce letter, intending to allow Chu Shaohua to be with Xia Chu. He also packed all his savings and the jewelry he had bought for her, urging her to sell them if she needed money on her journey. He advised her to be less headstrong in the Xia family, emphasizing the importance of softness and compromise in a marriage.
Chu Shaohua was heartbroken, repeatedly asking what he meant and stating she had no intention of going with Xia Chu. Chen Dashun, however, insisted that Xia Chu was waiting for her at Lianglukou and that he would personally take her there the next morning. He confessed that he knew she wouldn't leave on her own due to guilt, so he felt it was his responsibility to set her free.
He believed that she and Xia Chu, both ambitious individuals, were a better match, but warned her about the troubles their strong personalities might attract, urging her to temper Xia Chu when necessary. The next morning, Chu Shaohua arrived at the designated meeting point and returned the whistle Xia Chu had given her.
She reiterated her desire to explore the outside world, but asserted that she would do so through her own efforts, not by relying on him, even if the path was difficult. Xia Chu, understanding her resolve, wished her a safe journey. Meanwhile, back at home, Chen Dashun had locked himself in his room, refusing to eat or drink. His parents, along with Chen Ershun and Song Ping, were frantic, worried about his well-being. To their surprise, Chu Shaohua returned.
She held up the divorce letter, declaring that whether she stayed or left was her decision alone, and then dramatically tore the letter to pieces. Chen Dashun, ecstatic at her return, embraced her and spun her around in joy. Suddenly feeling dizzy, Chu Shaohua checked her pulse and discovered she was pregnant. Chen Dashun was overjoyed, shouting, "I'm having a baby!" and the entire family celebrated the happy news.
Soon after, the entire Chen family, led by Chen Father, relocated to Peking and purchased a courtyard house. Chen Mother immediately laid down strict rules for Song Ping and Chu Shaohua, including not leaving the courtyard without permission, always being accompanied if permitted, not speaking to outsiders, and staying indoors when guests visited. While Chu Shaohua, absorbed in dreams of a beautiful new life, barely paid attention to Chen Mother's lengthy pronouncements, Song Ping was more attentive.
Chu Shaohua began to personally teach Song Ping how to cook, patiently explaining recipes like the "one, two, three, four, five" for sweet and sour dishes, and even offering to draw instructions for the illiterate Song Ping. Song Ping proved a diligent student, quickly mastering the techniques. Her cooking improved significantly, earning praise from Chen Ershun who found her dishes delicious. Chen Ershun was tasked with daily grocery shopping.
Chen Mother, suspecting him of embezzling household funds, demanded he draw a map to the market. While Chen Ershun quickly rattled off directions, Chu Shaohua, feigning ignorance, subtly copied the map when Chen Mother wasn't looking. She also discreetly asked Chen Ershun about the family's apothecary on Fuma Street. The next day, Chen Mother, armed with the map, went to the market herself.
She soon returned, terrified and exhausted, claiming she had gotten completely lost and encountered a "foreigner" who spoke to her, making her fear being "eaten." She furiously accused Chen Ershun of deliberately drawing the map incorrectly to sabotage her and maintain his control over the grocery money, mentioning his past dishonest dealings at the apothecary. With the family's provisions dwindling, Chu Shaohua seized the opportunity and volunteered to take over the grocery shopping.
Despite Chen Mother's initial reluctance and concerns about household duties, she eventually agreed, having no better alternative. As Chu Shaohua walked through the streets, she was captivated by the diverse array of goods. Following the address, she found Chen's Apothecary. Inside, she noticed a newspaper on the table, sparking a desire to learn to read and write with Chen Dashun's help.
She learned from Chen Dashun that the apothecary lacked its own unique medicinal formulas, which had hindered its growth and worried Chen Father. When a customer, Mr. Zhou, came to pick up his honeyed pills, Chu Shaohua not only assisted with the transaction but skillfully recommended several expensive tonics to complement the pills, assuring him they would enhance the treatment and save money in the long run.
Mr. Zhou was impressed by her suggestion and bought the tonics, which had previously been difficult for the apothecary to sell. Chen Dashun was astonished by her business acumen, confessing that he and his father had almost given up on selling those particular tonics and were considering selling them at a loss. Seeing her success, Chu Shaohua proposed working at the apothecary daily.
While Chen Dashun was initially hesitant, concerned about her pregnancy, Chu Shaohua argued that other professions, like banking, employed female staff, and that working together would allow them to commute to and from work every day. Ultimately, Chen Dashun admitted that the decision rested with Chen Father. Chu Shaohua returned home late from grocery shopping, much to Chen Mother's displeasure. However, Chu Shaohua had found cheaper produce and presented the saved money to Chen Mother, who was then satisfied.
That evening, Chen Dashun complained of being overwhelmed at the apothecary due to the absence of the two assistants. Chen Mother suggested Chen Ershun help, but he feigned illness. Then, Chen Mother asked Chu Shaohua to assist, to which Chu Shaohua initially pretended her pregnancy made it inconvenient. This prompted Chen Mother to immediately decide that Chu Shaohua "must" go to the apothecary. Chu Shaohua inwardly celebrated her successful manipulation.
Later, Chen Dashun presented Chu Shaohua with an anti-nausea sachet he had made for her, using an ancient prescription with ingredients like Baizhu, dried ginger, Banxia, Juhong, and Houpo. Chu Shaohua, touched by his thoughtfulness, had an idea: they should make more such sachets to sell at the apothecary, suggesting they would benefit not only pregnant women but also those suffering from travel sickness or heatstroke. From that day forward, Chu Shaohua regularly helped at the apothecary.
One day, a customer named Mr. Zhang came to fill a prescription that specifically required Yunnan Shexiang. Chen Dashun informed her they only stocked Sichuan Shexiang because Yunnan Shexiang was too expensive at twenty silver dollars per qian. However, Chu Shaohua assured Mr. Zhang they could obtain the specific ingredient, offering to deliver it to his residence at Nanluoguxiang, a known affluent area, and sold it to him for eighteen silver dollars per qian, two less than the market price.
Chen Dashun was initially confused by her decision to sell at a loss. Chu Shaohua explained her strategy: never turn away a customer, and to expand business beyond local reach, an apothecary needs unique remedies or exceptional service. Since they lacked unique remedies, their service must be superior.
She argued that the two-silver-dollar loss was a small price to pay to build customer loyalty, establish a reputation for comprehensive service and fair pricing, and potentially open doors to the wealthy clientele of Nanluoguxiang, which would be worth far more than the small loss. Chen Dashun was greatly impressed, marveling at her business acumen, to which Chu Shaohua simply replied, "Because I'm Chu Shaohua."
Episode 4 Recap
Chu Shaohua and Chen Dashun worked diligently at Chen's Apothecary every day. Chu Shaohua's warm demeanor and focus on customer needs quickly improved business, and the time spent together deepened her and Chen Dashun's bond. Chen Dashun, impressed, asked, "How are you so amazing?" to which Chu Shaohua confidently replied, "Because I'm Chu Shaohua." He then asked her to go help in the backyard, but quickly added that he wanted to admire her a bit longer.
Despite his words, Chu Shaohua went to assist in the backyard. Earlier, Chen Dashun had told Chu Shaohua that the apothecary's income had been increasing significantly since she started, with an "unprecedentedly high" day yesterday thanks to a large order for "seasonal tonics" from a Mr. Zhang. He wished for more customers like him. Chu Shaohua challenged him, asking if he was "satisfied with just this much money," asserting, "I think we can do even better."
Chen Dashun, concerned for her pregnancy, advised her to take it easy, but Chu Shaohua declared her desire to be "greedy" in pursuit of success. One evening, when Chu Shaohua and Chen Dashun hadn't returned home late, Chen's mother grew anxious. She questioned Chen Ershun about Chu Shaohua's activities at the apothecary, asking if she had been "slacking off." Chen Ershun reported that he had seen her "chatting with a customer in the front hall."
Hearing this, Chen's mother resolved to bring Chu Shaohua back home to work. When Chen Dashun and Chu Shaohua finally arrived, Chen's mother was waiting for them to eat. Chu Shaohua, sensing her displeasure, feigned exhaustion from the apothecary, claiming to have no appetite and wanting to "go back and lie down." Chen's mother scoffed, asking how much "chatting" she had done to be "tired like this and skip dinner."
Chu Shaohua then strategically declared, "Tomorrow, I don't want to help at the apothecary anymore. I want to stay at home." She complained that she was "slicing Jixueteng by myself and grinding pangolin scales" and couldn't manage it all, adding that Chen Dashun "wouldn't help me either." Chen Dashun interjected that he was "tied up with customers and didn't have time to help," reminding her he had suggested she talk to customers too, but she couldn't handle getting "scolded."
Shaohua concluded, "Anyway, I'm not going tomorrow. I worked myself to the bone and still got yelled at." Chen's mother chastised her, reminding her she wasn't a "spoiled young lady" and "getting scolded a bit isn't the end of the world." Shaohua insisted she "really can't stand it" at the apothecary. Chen's mother, falling for the ploy, firmly stated, "Even if you can't, you have to. Tomorrow, you are going to help, no matter what.
Try not to always think about how to do less." Chu Shaohua secretly rejoiced. Suddenly, a woman arrived, calling for Chen Dashun, saying her son Shuan had a sudden stomachache. Doctors had prescribed medicine, but all other apothecaries were closed. Chen Dashun immediately offered to help, heading to the apothecary to get the medicine while telling his family to eat without him.
As the family dined, Chu Shaohua, inspired by the late-night request, excitedly told Chen Ershun that she had "another trick to boost the business." Soon after, Chen's Apothecary proudly displayed a sign announcing "Open all night" and offering "Decocting medicine for customers, on-site processing of tonic pastes," attracting new customers like Zhang Hailong and Cao Chunsheng. The staff, now including two new assistants, worked diligently preparing ingredients such as Renshen, stir-fried Baizhu, Fuling, Shanyao, and lotus seeds.
Chen's father returned home earlier than expected. Upon arriving at the apothecary, he was displeased to find it bustling with customers and two newly hired assistants. " I was gone for just a few days, and everything's already a mess?" he remarked. Chen Dashun quickly presented the account books, explaining, "Father, the income jumped this much in just half a month!"
He attributed the success to Chu Shaohua, detailing how she had "closed several big orders" and persuaded clients to place orders for "seasonal tonics." He also explained that the new policy of being "open all night," offering "decocting medicine for customers, and on-site processing of tonic pastes" led to a staff shortage, necessitating the new hires and increased wages. Chen's father, realizing these were all Chu Shaohua's ideas, acknowledged, "She does have a knack for it."
Chen Dashun then proposed letting Chu Shaohua officially join the apothecary, arguing that her talent was wasted on household chores. However, Chen's father adamantly refused, stating that even if their family was struggling, they would not let their daughter-in-law "show her face in public," as it would compromise their dignity. He insisted she could "assist you at home just the same." Despite Chen Dashun's attempts to reason, his father declared, "It's decided. I don't want to hear another word."
Chen Dashun then tried to convince Chu Shaohua to stay home to rest during her pregnancy. He emphasized the risks of her early mornings and late nights at the apothecary, saying he would be "devastated" if she got hurt. Chu Shaohua expressed her fear, stating, "I'm not afraid of being tired or going through hardship," but "I'm afraid that courtyard will be my whole world for my whole life."
Chen Dashun promised that "once you've given birth and finished your recovery month," he would "find a way to convince Father to let you work here." Chu Shaohua, after asking, "How much longer will that be?" reluctantly agreed to "bear with it for a few more months." True to Chu Shaohua's fears, Chen's mother strictly confined her to the courtyard, declaring, "From now on, don't step out of this courtyard anymore. Stay put at home."
She subjected Chu Shaohua to constant criticism, from complaining about her "lack of occasion" while helping with a hairpin—which resulted in Shaohua accidentally poking her—to grumbling about a cold towel and accusing her of "throwing a fit" for merely reacting. Pushed to her limit, Chu Shaohua defiantly retorted, "So what if I am?" and threw a water basin to the ground.
Chen's mother, startled, stumbled and cried out about her "pearl earring" and claimed that Shaohua "was trying to hit me." As Chen's mother wailed about her lost "pearl earring," Chu Shaohua picked it up. A new idea sparked in her mind: "Applying pearl powder to the face gives a radiant complexion." Despite Song Ping's anxious warning that they "can't just go out," Chu Shaohua rushed to the apothecary.
There, she excitedly proposed to Chen's father, "we can grind the pearl into powder, then mix it with Danggui, Taoren, Chuanxiong, Baizhi, Baifuzi, and Baiji's powder to make a whitening beauty powder that we can sell." She argued that while an apothecary's income was typically limited by geography and the rarity of illness, selling this beauty powder "can break both those limits and increase our income by 20%."
Chen's father was skeptical, initially dismissing the idea as "impossible," noting the difference between common and medicinal pearls. Chu Shaohua countered that they could "procure medicinal pearls." He then worried it would be "abandoning our proper work" for an apothecary. Chu Shaohua passionately argued, "A healer's heart is compassionate, and medicine exists to cure. For women, when beauty fades, the heart suffers too. So beauty powder is fair business for an apothecary."
Chen Dashun supported her, highlighting the high-profit potential, as it would cost "less than a hundred wen" to make but could sell for "one or two silver dollars." He also suggested that by developing this product, they could establish their "own secret formulas and remedies," which Chen's Apothecary lacked and was "falling short" on. He even remarked that this could be their "own secret remedy," making their success "just around the corner."
Chen's father acknowledged Dashun's newfound eloquence, which Dashun credited to Chu Shaohua, who, in turn, explained she had learned from her grandfather. After much consideration, Chen's father agreed to Chu Shaohua's innovative proposal. Taking advantage of the moment, Chen Dashun again suggested that Chu Shaohua "formally come help out here." Before Chen's father could fully respond, Chen's mother stormed into the apothecary, crying hysterically.
She demanded that Chen's father "back me up and deal with her," referring to Chu Shaohua, and threatened that she "really don't know how to keep running this household" if he didn't. She accused Chu Shaohua of being a "disrespectful brat" who "barely said a word, and she was about to hit me!" When Chen Dashun tried to defend his wife, Chen's mother berated him for taking Shaohua's side, calling him a "good-for-nothing."
Chen's father turned to Song Ping, asking, "What exactly happened?" but Song Ping, unaware of any conflict, simply replied, "I don't know." As Chen's mother continued to accuse Chu Shaohua of lying, Chu Shaohua quickly intervened. She apologized to Chen's mother, explaining that she had just "thought of a secret formula for us," and "in my excitement, I knocked over the basin of water." She admitted she "made too much noise and startled you."
Chen's father, pacifying his wife, acknowledged Chu Shaohua's intelligence but criticized her for "lacking manners" and not being "fit to handle the chores." As a "punishment," he decreed that she would "be working here." Chu Shaohua, barely concealing her delight, exclaimed, "Really?" while Chen's mother remained displeased, feeling the punishment was insufficient. Chen's father then instructed Chen Dashun to escort his mother home. Chu Shaohua successfully developed Yurong Powder.
She tested it on Song Ping, who, after using it, was noticeably "transformed" and "glowing." Seeing the impressive results, Chu Shaohua proposed a bold marketing strategy: "how about giving the first batch away for free?" Chen's mother was appalled, exclaiming, "Give it all away? How can that be?" Chu Shaohua explained that while the powder's efficacy "speak for themselves," its novelty and high price would make customers "hesitate at first."
Therefore, "starting by giving it away" would help "get people on board," and once they tried it, they would "keep coming back." She suggested giving away "at least 50" boxes. Chen's father, however, decided against giving it away entirely, opting to "drop the price from three qian per box to one" instead. Chu Shaohua initially suggested distributing these 50 boxes to their "top clients' families" as a "year-end gesture," believing their "wealthy and influential" status would generate positive word-of-mouth.
Chen Dashun agreed. However, Chu Shaohua quickly changed her mind, proposing instead to "give them all to the girls in Bada Hutong." Chen's father reacted with shock, asking, "Shaohua, how do you know about such a sordid place?" Chen Ershun, curious, asked what the girls there "do," but was quickly silenced by his father. Chu Shaohua defended her idea by saying she had heard "Bada Hutong kicked off all the fashion trends in Peking."
She reasoned that "if the girls in Bada Hutong all start using Yurong Powder, then before long, all the women in Peking will also follow suit. Then we won't have to worry about sales." Chen's mother, disdainful, declared she "wouldn't use it," deeming it from "such lowly places." Chu Shaohua then pointed out the irony, revealing, "Mother, the ruffled edges on your clothes came from Bada Hutong."
Chen Ershun, convinced by Chu Shaohua's logic, added that the women there "receive guests from all over the country. One word from them, and our product will sweep across the land." Inspired by the discussion, Chu Shaohua made a bold pledge to Chen's father, vowing, "I'll recoup all costs in a month, and in three, Yurong Powder will be our biggest earner." Chen's father expressed concern for her pregnancy, but Chu Shaohua assured him, "I know what I'm doing."
However, Chen's mother, hearing of the opportunity, approached Chen's father to advocate for Chen Ershun, arguing that Chu Shaohua was "just an outsider" while Ershun was "our son." She highlighted Ershun's recent good behavior and his need for a purpose, stating that if he continued "lazing around like this every day, he's really going to waste his life." Chen's father, after some deliberation, agreed, relegating Chu Shaohua to "count goods and keep accounts," while Chen Ershun would manage sales.
Chu Shaohua expressed her frustration to Chen Dashun about being sidelined after developing the product and strategy. Chen Dashun tried to soothe her, reminding her it was for her health during pregnancy and that "we're all family. What difference does it make?" Chu Shaohua, however, insisted, "It's different," feeling her contributions were undervalued, but agreed to focus on her pregnancy for now.
Chen Ershun diligently delivered fifty boxes of Yurong Powder to various locations including Baishun Hutong, Yanzhi Hutong, Hanjia Hutong, and Shitou Hutong, as instructed. However, after two days, he reported that "no one's placed an order. Not even a single inquiry." Chu Shaohua, undeterred, told him to "send another 50" boxes, but still, no customers arrived. Later, with a hundred boxes remaining, Chu Shaohua suggested to Chen Ershun, "Give them all away."
Chen's father, entering the room, interjected, "Don't send them all. Fifty will be enough." However, Chu Shaohua later insisted that Chen Ershun deliver the remaining fifty boxes. Chen's father, frustrated, immediately forbade it, stating, "Don't give any more! . . . we've given away 150 boxes already, and no one's buying. Your method doesn't work." Chu Shaohua maintained her belief in the product, suggesting they "haven't given out enough yet" or that customers "haven't seen any results yet."
Chen's father, however, was resolute, declaring, "No more Yurong Powder. We'll keep the last 50 and take our time selling." Chu Shaohua argued that they were like "a pot of water that's almost boiling," needing "just one more piece of firewood" to succeed, and that "you've got to risk a little to gain a lot." Chen's father, exasperated, retorted, "Now I get how your whole family fell apart," blaming her lack of financial prudence.
Chu Shaohua sharply responded, "It was because we couldn't see far ahead." Just as the tension escalated, a woman from Bada Hutong entered, asking, "Is this Chen's Apothecary? You've got Yurong Powder, right?" She announced, "I'll take 100 boxes," and mentioned a friend in Jinan Prefecture who wanted 200 more, inquiring if they offered dropshipping. Soon, a flood of customers arrived, all eager to purchase Yurong Powder.
The apothecary quickly sold out, prompting Chen's father to profusely apologize to Chu Shaohua for his earlier doubts. Amidst the excitement, Chu Shaohua was suddenly overcome by severe abdominal pain. Chen Dashun rushed to find a midwife, and soon after, the midwife announced, "The mother and daughter are doing fine." Chen Dashun was overjoyed, celebrating the birth of their daughter, naming her Xuan.
Chen Dashun delightedly pointed out Xuan's resemblance to Chu Shaohua, while Chu Shaohua playfully noted Xuan's ears were like Dashun's, which he proudly claimed "bring good fortune." However, Chen's mother expressed her disappointment with a dismissive "Tch, a girl," and instructed Song Ping to give Chu Shaohua only a small portion from the celebratory meal of eggs, sending the rest to Chen's father.
Upon hearing of his granddaughter's birth, Chen's father, while accepting the news, openly voiced his hope for "the second one to be a boy." Chen's father then presented Xuan with a "Grandpa's gift for meeting you," but Chen's mother quickly interceded, saying, "Grandma will keep it for you." He then handed Chu Shaohua a red packet containing twenty silver dollars as a reward, acknowledging, "This year, our business jumped by 50 percent. Shaohua, it's all thanks to you."
Chu Shaohua, in turn, passed the money to Chen Dashun, telling him, "You manage all our family's money. You take it," to which he agreed to hold it for her, earning an approving nod from Chen's mother who remarked, "Shaohua is quite sensible." However, Chu Shaohua was far from content, murmuring, "However much he values me, all I got was 20 silver dollars. . . So the boost in business I brought in is only worth 20 silver dollars?
Or is that all I'm worth to this family?" She was clearly not satisfied with this level of reward or achievement. Chen Ershun, however, harbored resentment over Chu Shaohua receiving a red packet while he received nothing. He complained bitterly to Song Ping, "I was the one who delivered Yurong Powder to every house. Why did Father reward her but not me?"
When Song Ping meekly suggested, "Because she's capable," Chen Ershun lashed out at her, demanding, "When will you earn 20 silver dollars back for me?" Chen Dashun later observed Ershun's behavior, and noted Song Ping's struggles to assert herself, musing that he had repeatedly advised her to "shout right back" if he shouted, and "hit him back" if he tried to hit her. Chu Shaohua dryly responded, "Not everyone is like you."
Sometime later, Chu Shaohua informed Chen Dashun that "Ershun's accounts for the past two months don't quite add up," estimating a shortfall of "at least 200" silver dollars. When Chen Dashun asked if she was certain of embezzlement or merely a temporary financial maneuver, Chu Shaohua admitted she "wouldn't know that." Chen Dashun then suggested, "You ask him when no one else is around. Let's get this matter clear."
He offered to speak to his father if it confirmed embezzlement, warning that "if Ershun has really reverted to his old ways, Father won't give him another chance." Following Chen Dashun's suggestion, Chu Shaohua decided to confront Chen Ershun. She found him alone in the apothecary, as Chen Dashun, his father, and all the assistants were out on business.
When Chu Shaohua asked to speak with him, Chen Ershun, trying to flirt, remarked that she had "become even more stunning since giving birth" and attempted to touch her. Chu Shaohua deftly dodged his advances by offering him tea and then a snack, "cat ears," which he had brought for her, citing her hard work.
Chen Ershun continued his advances, lamenting that "it's such a waste not to doll yourself up" and promising, "Gemstone earrings, coming your way," implying her husband didn't treat her well. When he made another move, Chu Shaohua, feigning an accident, struck him on the forehead with a pestle, stating, "My hand slipped too," causing him to bleed. Later that evening, Chen Dashun returned home and suggested that Chen's mother take over caring for Xuan at night, citing Chu Shaohua's exhaustion.
However, Chu Shaohua refused, saying, "I just hate being away from Xuan." Shortly after, Chen's mother came to Chen Ershun, bringing him new insoles she had made. Noticing the injury on his forehead, she anxiously inquired, "What happened to your head?" Chen Ershun, unwilling to reveal the truth, lied, claiming he had "just bumped into a tree. No big deal." His mother, however, remained concerned.
The next morning, loan sharks appeared at Chen's Apothecary, demanding payment from Chen Ershun and declaring, "No money today, and we're not leaving." A clerk tried to deter them, explaining that Chen Ershun had gone to Shanxi to procure goods and "won't be back until tonight." Chu Shaohua arrived and questioned the clerk, Shitou, about the commotion.
Shitou informed her that the men had "came early this morning to collect a debt from Second Young Master," implying it was related to gambling. Learning that Chen's father would only return around noon, Chu Shaohua, determined to handle the situation, sent Shitou back inside and confronted the loan sharks, saying, "Gentlemen. You're here for Chen Ershun, right? I'm his sister-in-law."
Episode 5 Recap
Early one morning, Chu Shaohua arrived at the apothecary to find three accountants from brothels in Bada Hutong blocking the entrance, loudly demanding payment from Chen Ershun. To avoid disrupting business, Chu Shaohua calmly invited them inside, offering them tea and snacks while promising that Chen Ershun would soon arrive. An employee questioned her decision to let them in, but Chu Shaohua assured him someone would handle the situation.
Soon after, Mr. Chen and Chen Dashun arrived, alerted to the commotion. The accountants presented IOUs and bills personally signed by Chen Ershun, revealing he owed a total of 1,115 silver dollars. Mr. Chen, angered by his son's recklessness, declared that a debt must be paid and instructed Chu Shaohua to retrieve money from the cash box. Chu Shaohua discovered the cash box was short by three to four hundred silver dollars.
She explained that she had been recovering at home after giving birth to Xuan for the past two months, during which Chen Ershun managed the Yurong Powder accounts. It became clear he had embezzled a significant amount. Upon Chen Ershun’s return, Mr. Chen furiously confronted him, beating him for his disgraceful actions. After Chen Ershun tearfully apologized, Mr. Chen paid off all his debts, then sent him back to their hometown that very night.
Song Ping was instructed to stay and care for Chen Ershun’s mother and Xuan. Mr. Chen also decided to entrust the entire Yurong Powder business to Chu Shaohua. With Chen Ershun’s messy accounts in hand, Chu Shaohua had to visit Linfang Pavilion, a brothel, to reconcile them. Madam Yan, the brothel owner, took the opportunity to demand a commission for Chen Ershun's past business.
As Chu Shaohua finished the accounting and prepared to leave, she overheard Madam Yan furiously scolding a woman named Lu Ningxiang. Ningxiang, terrified, fled downstairs. Chu Shaohua immediately recognized Ningxiang as her good friend, Kang Erniu. Seeing the bruises on Kang Erniu’s body, Chu Shaohua was determined to buy her freedom. She sent an employee to buy external trauma ointment and personally tended to Kang Erniu's wounds.
Moved, Kang Erniu tearfully confided in Chu Shaohua, revealing that she had eloped with Wu to Peking after they stole money from the Xia family. After their money ran out, Wu, who preferred gambling over honest work, accumulated large debts and sold Kang Erniu to the brothel.
Chu Shaohua vowed to rescue her, but Kang Erniu, feeling utterly defiled and hopeless, refused the help and forced Chu Shaohua to leave, stating that her life was ruined and she wanted to waste away in Linfang Pavilion. Undeterred, Chu Shaohua, pretending to be a client named Mr. Chen, arranged to meet Kang Erniu again. She recounted a childhood memory of Kang Erniu saving her from drowning, reminding her of their unbreakable bond and her unwavering support.
Chu Shaohua assured Kang Erniu that she could start over if she wished. Hope sparked in Kang Erniu's eyes. Chu Shaohua then confronted Madam Yan, offering to buy Kang Erniu's freedom. Madam Yan, seeing an opportunity, initially demanded an exorbitant 3,000 silver dollars, insisting that all of Kang Erniu's belongings and room furnishings must also remain.
Madam Yan justified the inflated price by listing all the expenses she had incurred for Kang Erniu's upkeep and training, dismissing Kang Erniu's reminder that Wu had sold her for far less. Chu Shaohua, lacking such a large sum, sought a loan from Chen Dashun.
He regretfully informed her that, despite years of working with his father, he had only saved just over two hundred silver dollars, and after helping to pay off his brother's recent debts, only one hundred silver dollars remained. Chu Shaohua returned to Kang Erniu, explaining the financial predicament and suggesting a delay of one year for her rescue.
Kang Erniu reacted with fury and despair, accusing Chu Shaohua of giving her false hope and being as deceitful as the men who had promised to save her. Kang Erniu declared that she now hated Chu Shaohua more than Wu and dramatically severed their friendship, ordering her to leave. Heartbroken, Chu Shaohua walked away, vowing never to meddle in Lu Ningxiang’s affairs again.
Sometime later, Madam Yan surprisingly approached Chu Shaohua, encouraging her to redeem Kang Erniu and lowering her price to 2,000, then 1,500, and finally 1,000 silver dollars. Chu Shaohua, feigning disinterest, decided to play hard to get. She told Madam Yan that she had initially considered buying Kang Erniu for her mentally challenged younger brother in the countryside, estimating a cost of around eighty to one hundred silver dollars, which would be like getting him a wife.
She refused to pay a thousand. Madam Yan, becoming increasingly desperate, finally offered to sell Kang Erniu for 500 silver dollars, pressing for an immediate transaction. Curious about Madam Yan’s urgency, Chu Shaohua subtly inquired with another brothel owner, Madam Tao, about Lu Ningxiang. She was shocked to learn that Kang Erniu was rumored to be dying of "black pox," a severe and highly contagious form of syphilis, and was considered beyond saving.
Armed with this information, Chu Shaohua confronted Madam Yan, declaring she would not buy a "living corpse." Just then, Mr. Zhao, a prominent gang leader, arrived. Hearing the argument, he intervened, insisting that Chu Shaohua, having expressed interest, must buy Kang Erniu. Seizing the opportunity, Chu Shaohua bargained the price down to 300 silver dollars, stating she needed 200 for medical treatment.
She then presented an additional condition: Mr. Zhao must help her find Wu and deliver him into her custody, vaguely describing Wu as a distant relative. Mr. Zhao agreed, with the condition that he would not be responsible if Kang Erniu died in Chu Shaohua's care. Upon leaving the brothel, Chu Shaohua realized Mr. Zhao's men were following her and deliberately spread conflicting stories about Wu's identity to different people she encountered.
She eventually confided a "truthful" story to Blind Li, a fortune teller: Wu had stolen a valuable Ginseng King and a large sum of money from their former employer, who was now offering a 5,000 silver dollar reward. When Mr. Zhao’s men reported this back, he realized Chu Shaohua’s true motive was the reward. Seeing a chance to get rich, Mr. Zhao dispatched all his men to find Wu, intending to keep the Ginseng King for himself.
Chu Shaohua returned home and discussed the funds with Chen Dashun. He agreed to borrow from his business partners to gather the remaining 197 silver dollars by the next morning. Chu Shaohua paid Madam Yan the 300 silver dollars. The sight and smell of Kang Erniu, appearing sickly and covered in lesions, made the brothel employees recoil as she was carried away. Meanwhile, Mr. Zhao’s men quickly found and apprehended Wu.
Mr. Zhao interrogated him, demanding to know the whereabouts of the Ginseng King, but Wu was genuinely clueless. Back at the apothecary, after bathing and eating, Kang Erniu was overjoyed, declaring she was free. Chu Shaohua then revealed her elaborate plan. Days prior, she had given Kang Erniu a special medicine in pill and powder form. The pill, taken daily, caused a foul body odor.
The powder, mixed with water and applied to her skin, made it appear to be festering. Chu Shaohua had also instructed Kang Erniu to eat sparingly and neglect her hygiene to look increasingly emaciated. Furthermore, Chu Shaohua had arranged with Physician Zhang to confirm the fake diagnosis.
Physician Zhang had told Madam Yan that Lu Ningxiang had contracted black pox, the most dangerous form of syphilis, and was in its final stage, advising her to quickly remove Kang Erniu to prevent further infection. This deception successfully pressured Madam Yan to sell Kang Erniu for a mere 300 silver dollars. Overwhelmed with emotion, Kang Erniu expressed immense gratitude, wondering how she could ever repay such kindness.
Episode 6 Recap
After being rescued by Chu Shaohua, Kang Erniu expressed her profound gratitude. Shaohua encouraged her to embrace a new life, living happily, beautifully, and with dignity. Having heard from customers that Shanghai was more prosperous than Peking with more opportunities, Kang Erniu decided to seek her fortune there. Shaohua, however, told Kang Erniu there was one last matter she needed to settle before leaving.
Mr. Zhao, the gang leader, brought Wu, who had been severely beaten, claiming he was stubborn and wouldn't reveal anything about a top-notch Renshen. Seeing Kang Erniu free, Wu became emotional, repeatedly apologizing and expressing deep regret for his past actions. He vowed to never leave her and to make amends, claiming he now realized she was the most important person to him. Kang Erniu, however, was hardened by his words.
She asked him to stick out his tongue, mockingly saying she wanted to see what a tongue that "could say such beautiful words" looked like, and then, in a shocking act, cut it off. Before Kang Erniu departed for Shanghai, Chu Shaohua went to the station to see her off. Shaohua gave her some money for emergencies and asked her to write as soon as she arrived. Kang Erniu, shedding tears, promised to return "with glory."
Shaohua reassured her, also telling her that her daughter, Xuan, would be like Kang Erniu's own child, as Kang Erniu could never have children of her own. Meanwhile, back at Chen's Apothecary, Mrs. Chen overheard the clerk, Shitou, discussing how Chen Dashun had taken two hundred silver dollars from the accounts. Mrs. Chen immediately concluded that Shaohua was secretly diverting money to her poor family and angrily reported this to Mr. Chen.
Furious, Mr. Chen confronted Chen Dashun about the missing money. Chen Dashun initially tried to take the blame, claiming he spent the money on "drinking and gambling." However, Chu Shaohua arrived and intervened, confessing that Dashun had taken the money to help her redeem Kang Erniu because she lacked the funds. Mr. and Mrs. Chen were enraged that the shop's money was used for someone from a brothel.
To appease them, Chu Shaohua boldly promised to repay one thousand silver dollars by the end of the year, vowing to work without pay or dividends if she failed. Mr. Chen, though still upset, accepted her terms. Shaohua later confronted Dashun about not telling her, concerned he might have been severely punished. Dashun explained he didn't want to burden her or cause her distress if Kang Erniu couldn't be saved. Shaohua appreciated his selfless act.
Determined to fulfill her promise, Chu Shaohua intensified her efforts, developing a range of Yurong beauty products, including Yurong Serum, Cream, Powder, Mingmou Balm, and Mengtian Toner. She tirelessly promoted them door-to-door. Despite her hard work, she had only earned 150 silver dollars, far from the promised one thousand, and regretted her impulsive vow. An unexpected opportunity arose when Gao Qianyi from Shouyuan Apothecary, a prominent national pharmacy, visited Chen's Apothecary, impressed by the reputation of their Yurong Powder.
Mr. Chen directed Gao Qianyi to Chu Shaohua, admitting he knew little about women's products. Shaohua detailed the entire Yurong product line and its benefits. Gao Qianyi, discerning Shaohua's greater ambition behind the product's branding and marketing strategies, proposed a partnership to widely develop and distribute the Yurong Powder series. Mr. Chen was delighted by the prospect. Gao Qianyi invited the Chen family to a banquet at the Grand Hotel that evening to discuss the collaboration.
Chen Dashun was hesitant, feeling uneasy about partnering with Shouyuan Apothecary because its owner, Xia Yuan, was Xia Chu's brother. Chu Shaohua reassured him, affirming that she had chosen him and the Chen family, and her sole focus was on their business. Dashun apologized for his petty concerns.
For the formal occasion, Mr. Chen wore his best long gown, and Mrs. Chen lent Chu Shaohua her prized gold and silver jewelry to ensure the Chen family made a respectable appearance, reminding her to return them afterward.
At the opulent Grand Hotel, Gao Qianyi welcomed them, explaining that Xia Yuan, the head manager, was unable to attend because the Military Governor of Shanxi, Mr. Yan, had sent a procurement delegation from the largest Taigu pharmaceutical trader to Peking, and Xia Yuan was busy entertaining them. Chu Shaohua, curious why the Taigu traders would procure in Peking rather than locally, learned from Gao Qianyi that they were buying critical military medical supplies for an impending North-South conflict.
While Chen Dashun lamented the suffering of the common people in war, Mr. Chen eagerly congratulated Shouyuan Apothecary, assuming they had already secured the lucrative 30,000-silver-dollar military supply order. Gao Qianyi, however, clarified that the order was still hotly contested, with the top ten apothecaries in China all vying for it, and even Shouyuan Apothecary was not guaranteed to win.
As they left the Grand Hotel, Chu Shaohua observed a pharmacy owner escorting Special Envoy Xu from Military Governor Yan's delegation, instructing that he be taken to the Peking Hotel. Inspired, Shaohua discussed with Chen Dashun the possibility of pursuing the military supply order themselves, estimating a potential profit of at least five thousand silver dollars. Dashun dismissed the idea as a fantasy, believing such a large order was out of their league.
The next morning, Chu Shaohua went to the Peking Hotel to meet Special Envoy Xu, but found a long line of pharmacy owners, including those from Hanchun Apothecary, Qingyu Apothecary, and Shanghai Tian's Apothecary, all waiting to see him. She disguised herself as a hotel maid to get closer. Inside, she witnessed Special Envoy Xu's wife's uncle, Mr. Lan, and his concubine's cousin violently arguing over who had final say on the procurement.
Mr. Shang, an adjutant, tried to break up their fight but held little sway. Mr. Lan made lecherous advances toward Chu Shaohua, causing her to flee in fear. Outside, Chu Shaohua found a hotel worker who had been beaten. She tended to his wounds and invited him to eat, subtly extracting information about the Special Envoy's entourage.
The worker confirmed the lecherous man was the Military Governor's wife's uncle and the violent one was his concubine's cousin, both constantly fighting over procurement. He also mentioned Mr. Shang, the adjutant, was a good man but powerless to stop them. Back at the apothecary, Chu Shaohua caught Gao Qianyi as he was leaving.
She inquired about the military order, and Gao Qianyi revealed that it had not been signed, explaining that Shanghai's Tian Apothecary had used other connections, causing complications for Shouyuan Apothecary. Later, Gao Qianyi returned to discuss the cooperation agreement with Mr. Chen. He proposed that Shouyuan Apothecary would only proceed if Chen's Apothecary shared the secret formula for Yurong Powder and agreed to a 60-40 profit split, with Shouyuan taking the larger share.
Both Mr. Chen and Chen Dashun vehemently disagreed, feeling the terms were unfair as they had developed the product. However, Chu Shaohua surprised them by suggesting they accept the terms. She argued that while Chen's Apothecary currently sold 2,000 boxes monthly, earning 1,000 silver dollars profit, Shouyuan Apothecary's vast network could sell at least 6,000 boxes monthly. Even with only 40% of the profits, Chen's Apothecary would earn 1,200 silver dollars, an increase of 200 per month. She reasoned that the Yurong Powder formula itself wasn't inherently valuable; its current success stemmed from their initial market advantage.
