Brocade Odyssey Recap, Plot, Synopsis

Brocade Odyssey Synopsis

During the late Tang Dynasty, the beauty of Shu Jin (Shu silk) was known throughout the world, and it was highly sought after by nobles and wealthy families. In the military, it could even be used as a form of payment, with "every inch of silk worth its weight in gold," making it the focus of intense competition among various factions. Beneath the prosperity of the Shu Jin industry in Yizhou, hidden currents were stirring.

The Ji family in Yizhou, known for their Shu Red silk, had a rare and sought-after product, with the reputation that "when Shu Red appears, all other reds wither." Ji Yingying, the young lady of the Ji family, was clever from a young age and became deeply fascinated with dyeing silk, showing great talent in the craft. Zhao Xiuyuan, the son of the prominent Zhao family of the silk weaving business, harbored feelings of love turned to hatred and began obstructing the Ji family at every turn.

Yang Jinglan, a son of a noble family, had been studying abroad for many years before returning to Yizhou under the title of "Jin Guan" (Silk Official). Although he was given the title of a "short-lived official" with little power, he secretly navigated through the situation to solve a long-standing mystery. During his investigation, he became increasingly close to Ji Yingying, a bold and sharp-witted young woman he had known since childhood. Together, they worked to resolve various crises.

Ji Yingying's dyeing techniques gained fame throughout Shu, attracting the attention of the White King Shengfengze of Nanzhao, who had long coveted the secret techniques of various families. As Nanzhao tightened its grip on the region, Yizhou was thrown into turmoil. Ji Yingying risked everything to protect the craftsmen and artisans, while Yang Jinglan ventured alone into Nanzhao. Together, they negotiated with the Nanzhao forces, reviving the Shu Jin industry and leaving behind a legendary tale of Shu Jin.

Brocade Odyssey Recap

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On the ninth day of the tenth month, the embroidery competition at Yizhou Mansion was bustling with excitement, and the commoners cheered enthusiastically. The young Ji Yingying, influenced by her father Ji Guinan, developed a keen interest in Sichuan brocade, especially the crimson silk personally dyed by Ji Guinan, who was honored with the title of "King of Brocade.

" However, after the tribute crimson silk was handed over to the transportation officer and stored at the post station for one night, Officer Liu accused Ji Guinan of using inferior materials. Ji Guinan believed there was another reason behind this and intended to meet the governor to prove his innocence. Unexpectedly, the transportation officer silenced him with a single sword stroke, falsely accusing him of deceiving the emperor and executing him on the spot.

Young Ji Yingying witnessed this scene through the window and screamed in terror, prompting young Yang Jinglan to quickly cover her mouth. The Ji family's assets were confiscated by the transportation officer. Soldiers found a robe made of tribute Sichuan brocade, and Ji Yingying claimed it was hers, but her mother, Madam Ji Xu, stopped her. Young Zhao Xiuyuan asked his father to help the Ji family but was refused.

Yang Jinglan could only watch helplessly as Ji Yingying’s entire family was taken away by the transportation officer. Five months later, the Ji family was released due to a general amnesty. Zhao Xiuyuan helped them find a place to settle. However, just as they returned home, creditors came demanding repayment, insisting on obtaining the formula for crimson silk. Ji Yingying accused them of being aggressive.

Shopkeeper Liu threatened to take them away to pay off the debts with their lives, but Madam Ji Xu threatened to kill herself, scolding them for bullying orphans and widows. Fearing the matter would escalate, Shopkeeper Liu backed off temporarily but warned them to pay high-interest debts or he would report them to the authorities. Eight years passed in the blink of an eye.

The grown-up Ji Yingying was washing silk by the riverside with her friends from the Yingxi Dye Workshop when they heard that the Hua family had arrived. Ji Yingying deliberately held up Hua Xiangrong, the Hua family's son-in-law, to buy time for her friends to escape. Hua Xiangrong warned that no one was allowed to wash silk on Hua family territory, or he would break their legs.

Sang Shisi, the son of Manager Sang, arrived at the Huahua Creek on horseback, teasing the girls on purpose. Unable to stand it, Ji Yingying called her friends to teach Sang Shisi a lesson but accidentally startled his horse, causing him to fall off. Suddenly, Yang Jinglan (played by Zheng Yecheng) appeared and kicked Sang Shisi into the water.

Sang Shisi accused Yang Jinglan of being disloyal, but Yang Jinglan retorted, saying he was teaching him a lesson for stealing his horse. Ji Yingying’s hair ornament fell into the water, and Yang Jinglan retrieved it, teasing her deliberately, claiming they had bullied his horse. After a brief argument, Ji Yingying quickly left with her friends. At home, food was running low. Ji Yaoting was reciting poetry to their dog, Guokui, hoping it would eat leftovers.

Ji Yingying came back, scolded the dog, and forced it to eat without being picky. Hua Rong, the Hua family’s shopkeeper, arrived to purchase silk. Ji Yaoting greeted him, but Hua Rong deliberately lowered the price, taking advantage of them. Ji Yingying agreed nonchalantly and invited Hua Rong inside to sign the contract. She then set the dog, Guokui, on him to scare him into agreeing to purchase the silk at a 30% discount.

Madam Ji Xu scolded Ji Yingying for fighting with others, saying it would ruin her reputation. Ji Yingying suspected the Hua family had ulterior motives, but Madam Ji Xu told her not to worry and reminded her of her engagement to Zhao Xiuyuan. Ji Yingying, however, didn’t want to think about it. Ji Yaoting also said he wouldn’t marry until he restored the Ji family’s reputation. Madam Ji Xu only hoped for their safety and well-being.

Sang Shisi later apologized for failing to help Yang Jinglan look after his master. Yang Jinglan planned to visit Ji Yingying and reminisced about their childhood meeting. Sang Shisi, pretending to be injured, caused trouble at the Ji household to target Ji Yingying. With Madam Ji Xu and Ji Yaoting absent, Ji Yingying prepared to handle the situation and publicly exposed Sang Shisi's fake injury. Zhuge Hong deliberately created an opportunity for Yang Jinglan to help Ji Yingying resolve the situation.

Yang Jinglan used the governor as a threat to scare Sang Shisi into behaving. After everyone dispersed, Yang Jinglan found an excuse to approach Ji Yingying, asking for water, but she refused to treat him kindly. When Madam Ji Xu returned, she blamed Ji Yingying for causing trouble and bringing more harassment from the Hua family.

Yang Jinglan, under imperial orders, had returned to investigate the crimson silk case and coincidentally found a piece of crimson silk dye on a tree. Meanwhile, Ji Yingying returned to Huahua Creek to wash silk and was once again troubled by Hua Xiangrong.

Hua Xiangrong publicly declared that Ji Yingying was no longer allowed to come to Huahua Creek, claiming she had offended the Imperial Uncle and he didn’t want the Hua family implicated. Chen Sanlang and Sheng Dalang from the Yingxi Dye Workshop couldn’t stand by and stepped in to help Ji Yingying. Ji Yingying, realizing this was Hua Xiangrong acting on his own, proposed a new idea to the young men.

She believed the small dye houses, with their unique dyeing styles, were superior to the Hua family’s workshop and suggested they band together to build a reputation. With orders, they could stand confidently. However, the others felt that building a reputation required connections and influence, fearing the Hua family might retaliate instead. Ji Yingying noticed a kite in the sky and knew it was Zhao Xiuyuan flying it. Zhao Xiuyuan, having heard about her fight, brought medicine for her.

Ji Yingying was delighted and pretended to worry him. Zhao Xiuyuan expressed concern that she might be allergic to red dye, but Ji Yingying said she was only afraid of flowing red. Zhao Xiuyuan learned that Sang Shisi enjoyed playing leaf cards and discovered his elder sister was a favored concubine in the palace. At the Yuebuhuan Tavern, troublemakers tried to take advantage of the shopkeeper, Yu Linglong, only to be dealt with by her.

The offenders threatened to report her to the authorities. Ji Yingying suddenly appeared, using the name of a royal official to intimidate the troublemakers into paying before leaving. Yu Linglong, aware of Ji Yingying’s dispute with the Imperial Uncle, praised her for standing up to authority. Ji Yingying borrowed money and space from Yu Linglong, promising her future profits. Ji Yingying planned to turn the situation to her advantage.

She deliberately gained a reputation as a gambling expert at a casino to lure Sang Shisi. Hearing about her troubles with the Hua family, Sang Shisi publicly announced that as long as she was willing to gamble, win or lose, he would ensure the Hua family wouldn’t trouble her. This was exactly what Ji Yingying wanted—his public promise. Round after round, Sang Shisi kept losing. The crowd grew larger, and business at the Yuebuhuan Tavern boomed.

Watching from the loft, Yang Jinglan observed Ji Yingying’s cleverness. Recognizing him, Yu Linglong served him fine wine, earning his praise for her excellent brew. Feigning reluctance to continue gambling, Ji Yingying was interrupted by Inspector Sang rushing in. Seeing Sang Shisi fooling around again, he angrily threatened to punish him.

Sang Shisi tried to dodge, but Ji Yingying intervened, defending him by claiming that Sang Shisi had been organizing a silk-dyeing event and even made leaf-card-themed pouches with symbolic meanings, presenting one as a gift for Inspector Sang. Hearing this, the inspector was impressed that Sang Shisi was finally doing something worthwhile and refrained from punishing him. The onlookers, intrigued by the leaf-card pouches, clamored for Ji Yingying to sell them. She used a limited-time discount strategy to encourage pre-orders.

Realizing he had been used, Sang Shisi was annoyed but unwilling to lose his position. Yang Jinglan proposed betting with Ji Yingying, but she refused. Yang Jinglan teased that it was no coincidence. To silence him, Ji Yingying agreed to a wager—the loser would grant the winner a favor. When Ji Yingying lost, Yang Jinglan requested permission to visit her home. Ji Yingying, planning to slip away, asked Ji Yaoting to help stockpile silk.

She intentionally took Sang Shisi to Huahua Creek, subtly stirring conflict with the Hua family. Overhearing Hua Xiangrong insulting him, Sang Shisi confronted him, only to be accidentally slapped by Hua Xiangrong. A brawl ensued, escalating to Inspector Sang. Recognizing Ji Yingying’s cunning, Inspector Sang agreed to her suggestion to guide Sang Shisi onto the right path. Ji Yingying also proposed a new regulation allowing all dye houses shared access to Huahua Creek.

Zhao Xiuyuan gifted Ji Yingying a painting, confident in her ability to revitalize the Ji family. Ji Yingying suggested weaving the painting into brocade, and the two discussed how to capture its grandeur in the design. Meanwhile, Hua Xiangrong apologized to Hua Rong for his mistakes and planned to pressure Inspector Sang on behalf of his master. When Ji Yingying returned home, Yang Jinglan was already waiting outside.

She accused him of just wanting water, but Yang Jinglan brought up Ji Guinan’s crimson brocade, suspecting Ji Yaoting had inherited the skill. Madam Ji Xu visited the Zhao family to discuss Ji Yingying’s marriage to Zhao Xiuyuan, but Madam Zhao pushed back, claiming she had no say in the matter, clearly trying to avoid the topic.

Ji Yingying reluctantly showed Yang Jinglan around the backyard. Yang Jinglan brought up the subject of Shu Red Silk, asking why she didn’t dye in red. Just then, Zhao Shenshi walked out of the house, and Madam Ji Xu quickly called Ji Yingying over to greet her. Zhao Shenshi, with a sarcastic tone, accused Ji Yingying of not adhering to the etiquette of a proper young lady, even bringing a man into the house.

Madam Ji Xu defended Ji Yingying and found an opportunity to send Zhao Shenshi away. After Yang Jinglan left, Madam Ji Xu had Ji Yaoting close the door and scolded Ji Yingying for associating with an unrelated man. Ji Yingying wanted to explain that Yang Jinglan had come to discuss business, but Madam Ji Xu didn’t believe her. Learning that Yang Jinglan was there to inquire about Shu Red Silk, Madam Ji Xu grumbled about people always pestering them.

Outside the door, Yang Jinglan secretly listened to their conversation. Meanwhile, Sang Shisi was already waiting at the gates of Jinguan Office, believing Inspector Sang was about to announce a new policy for Huahua Creek. Chen Sanlang, doubting Inspector Sang, used a goading tactic, promising a grand gift if he successfully handled the matter. When the gates of Jinguan Office opened, Inspector Sang emerged.

Ji Yingying, anxious to know the result, learned that a new Jinguan official had taken over, and Inspector Sang no longer managed specific affairs. Ji Yingying worried the new official would be difficult to work with and suspected a deeper reason behind Inspector Sang’s sudden change in attitude. He warned her to act within her limits. Chen Sanlang and the others were concerned about missing their delivery deadlines and the penalties they might face.

Ji Yingying knelt outside Jinguan Office, pleading to meet the new official. Chen Sanlang and the others followed suit, kneeling to request an audience. Inside the office, Yang Jinglan, busy organizing his subordinates, knew Ji Yingying was outside but refused to see her. As Chen Sanlang and the others began losing hope and considered seeking help from the Hua family, Zhu Xiaoniang hurriedly came to inform Ji Yingying of trouble at home.

Yang Jinglan, having arranged everything, reminded his subordinates to keep his identity secret. When Ji Yingying returned home, she found Hua Xiangrong and others moving her family’s looms to repay debts. Ji Yingying, indignant, insisted she wasn’t refusing to repay and demanded to reason with Hua Xiangrong. Zhuge Hong discovered that the Hua family had a monopoly in Yizhou and suspected a powerful force backing their attempt to annex the Ji family.

He suggested Yang Jinglan assist the Ji family, believing it would also benefit his investigation. Hua Xiangrong pressured Ji Yingying to pay her debts. Ji Yingying proposed using her family’s silk as repayment but refused to let them take Ji Yaoting’s loom. Ji Yaoting, however, allowed them to take it, claiming he had a way to repay the debt on time. Furious at Hua Xiangrong’s opportunism, Ji Yingying declared she wouldn’t become a servant to the Hua family.

She disguised herself as a maid from the Sang household, hoping to meet the new Jinguan official. When Zhu Xiaoniang asked why she didn’t seek help from Zhao Xiuyuan, Ji Yingying replied that she couldn’t always rely on others. In the Jinguan Office courtyard, Sang Shisi, intending to smoke out the new official, was setting a fire when Ji Yingying caught him.

As Yang Jinglan passed by in his sedan chair, Ji Yingying quickly explained she was putting out the fire and took the chance to lift the sedan’s curtain. Yang Jinglan pulled Ji Yingying into the sedan, revealing himself as the new Jinguan official. Ji Yingying, shocked, threatened to expose his identity but relented upon learning he would oversee Huahua Creek. She reluctantly agreed to make soup for him.

Yang Jinglan mentioned Shu Red Silk, saying that if they could repair the Empress’s Shu brocade, there would be a chance to overturn the injustice. Ji Yingying brought up the previous Jinguan official, asking Yang Jinglan to resolve her current crisis. Thinking of Ji Guinan, Ji Yingying dreamed of becoming a brocade master herself. However, when she tried to make red dye, memories of Ji Guinan’s death resurfaced, leaving her unable to focus.

The next day, Ji Yingying went to Jinguan Office again, pretending to cry as she demanded to see Yang Jinglan. Hastily dressing, Yang Jinglan teasingly ordered Ji Yingying to fan him. Ji Yingying acted pitiful, apologizing and pleading for help to address the dye houses monopolizing Huahua Creek. She gambled on Yang Jinglan’s sympathy. However, Yang Jinglan claimed to be driven solely by profit.

Ji Yingying offered information from the previous Jinguan official in exchange, and Yang Jinglan produced a prepared announcement. After the announcement was posted, the crowd cheered. Yang Jinglan personally visited Huahua Creek and found Hua Rong drinking tea by the stream. Accusing him of ignoring orders, Yang Jinglan kicked Hua Rong into the water and disciplined his attendants. Ji Yingying and others clapped in approval. They left the notes from the previous Jinguan official for Yang Jinglan, who, upon reading them, realized he had been tricked.

Ji Yingying gathered everyone to celebrate, declaring that resolving the issues at Huahua Creek was just the first step. Next, she planned to participate in the Dou Fangfei competition to revive their reputation and secure orders for their dyeing workshop. Some, worried about the risks and unable to sustain themselves, decided to withdraw. Ji Yingying did not stop them but welcomed them to rejoin anytime. Sheng Dalang and others chose to stay, believing Ji Yingying could lead them to success.

Zhuge Hong carefully examined a letter written by the guards and discovered that Shen Jinguan was particularly concerned with Qingcheng Mountain. A message from the Yang family arrived at the Jinguan Office, asking Yang Jinglan to make time to return home. With the Leizu Festival approaching, Zhuge Hong reminded Yang Jinglan that a meeting between the Jinguan and the Brocade King would be inevitable, urging him to return for a visit.

Meanwhile, Chen Sanlang expressed concerns about not having enough money to enter the Dou Fangfei competition and needing someone to make introductions. Ji Yaoting promised to handle the money, while Ji Yingying took responsibility for finding someone to help. The others were tasked with preparing their best silk products. Hua Xiangrong reported to his master, Niu Wuniang, that he had completed preparations for the Leizu Festival, though he voiced dissatisfaction with Ji Yingying.

Niu Wuniang dismissed his excuses and ordered him to find a way to control Ji Yingying, sticking to their original plan. Ji Yaoting humbled himself by working in a small workshop weaving brocade to earn money. Other workers mocked him, and the boss deliberately assigned him to Ji Guinan’s old weaving station. When Ji Yingying arrived at the Yu residence, she was reminded that it had once belonged to the Ji family.

Overcome with emotion, she recalled scenes of Ji Guinan weaving brocade. She planned to ask the elderly Yu Shu to act as a guarantor, but Yu Shu, struggling himself due to the Yu family's debts and lack of heirs, was unable to help. As Ji Yingying prepared to leave to seek help elsewhere, Yu Shu’s granddaughter, Yu Xi, sensing Ji Yingying’s integrity, gifted her a decorative ball.

Zhao Xiuyuan, learning that Ji Yingying was searching for a guarantor, offered to take her to meet the Zhao family patriarch. The elderly Zhao, who previously disliked Ji Yingying, was impressed upon seeing the Wind-Weave Handkerchief she had embroidered, praising her talent in dyeing. He agreed to act as her guarantor for the Dou Fangfei competition on the condition that she successfully sold her raw silk.

Yu Linglong suspected the Zhao patriarch had ulterior motives, believing he intended to use Ji Yingying to lure Zhao Xiuyuan back into weaving. Ji Yingying, aware of his self-interest, decided to focus on solving her immediate problem. Just then, they heard a commotion at the door and discovered Yang Jinglan parading in public. Yu Linglong informed Ji Yingying that today marked the anniversary of Yang Jinglan’s mother’s death.

Yu Linglong, who had once been Yang Jinglan’s sister-in-law, shared a mutual disdain for the Yang family’s rigid rules. The two had become friends after being punished to kneel together in the family shrine. Yang Jinglan, summoning his uncles to the Yang residence, mocked Yang Juxian’s pretense of fatherly kindness and filial piety. Though the uncles were offended by Yang Jinglan’s behavior, they refrained from acting due to his position as Jinguan.

Curious about the Yang family, Ji Yingying asked Yu Linglong to tell her more, but Yu Linglong, in a drunken haze, began recounting the Yang family’s affairs over drinks. Yang Jinglan blamed Yang Juxian for his mother’s death, believing his father’s desire to marry another woman had caused her despair. In front of the family elders, Yang Juxian reprimanded Yang Jinglan, but Yang Jinglan remained defiant.

Meanwhile, Ji Yaoting arrived at the tavern to escort Ji Yingying home and met Yu Linglong. Ji Yingying, unwilling to let them drink excessively, intentionally served them a poorly made hangover soup to sober them up. Suddenly inspired, Ji Yingying thought of a way to sell leftover silk by weaving it into sachets. Back at the workshop, Ji Yaoting finished a brocade, earning praise from the boss for his craftsmanship.

The boss used the opportunity to scold the other workers, even fining them. After the boss left, the workers, jealous of Ji Yaoting, beat him up. Spotting Ji Guinan’s old weaving machine, Ji Yaoting pleaded with the boss to sell it to him. On the day of the Leizu Festival, everyone gathered. The Zhao patriarch praised the Yang family’s Jinguan and Brocade King, but Yang Jinglan arrived deliberately late.

The Brocade King was displeased, viewing Yang Jinglan’s tardiness as disrespect toward Leizu. Ji Yingying received a threatening note from Hua Xiangrong, warning her of his intentions.

At the grand Leizu Festival, the atmosphere was solemn and majestic as the Brocade King and Jinguan led the kneeling ceremony. Yang Jinglan, however, prepared to leave early. Yang Jingshan stopped him, insisting he stay to complete the ritual of sending off the divine child. Yang Jinglan mocked him for being tedious. Down the mountain, Ji Yingying’s stall was deserted.

She had originally asked Sang Shisi to hire people to draw crowds, but he ended up giving all the money to them, meaning the hired crowd would not show up. Zhao Xiuyuan, pretending to be a customer, approached her stall and showed interest. Ji Yingying seized the opportunity to showcase her wares, attracting onlookers. Seeing the intriguing blind boxes Zhao Xiuyuan picked, the crowd quickly joined in, and her stall became lively with business.

While preparing the blind boxes, Ji Yingying suddenly received a note from Hua Rong. She rushed home and saw Ji Yaoting being accused by his former boss of stealing a weaving machine. The coworkers sided with the boss, leaving Ji Yaoting defenseless. Hua Rong threatened Ji Yingying, demanding she publicly bring up a marriage proposal to the Zhao patriarch or else have Ji Yaoting sent to the authorities.

Realizing Ji Yaoting had been framed and with the contract in Hua Rong’s control, Ji Yingying, despite her frustration, reluctantly agreed to Hua Rong’s demand to protect Ji Yaoting. Meanwhile, Yang Jinglan sneaked up the mountain, spotting suspicious figures. Zhuge Hong found him and reminded him not to leave the ritual site for too long. Ji Yingying returned to her stall, distressed.

To her surprise, Chen Sanlang and the others had sold all the raw silk and were thrilled, urging her to inform the Zhao patriarch. Coincidentally, the Zhao patriarch, accompanied by the Yang family matriarch, passed by. Ji Yingying was pushed into their presence, and Zhao Xiuyuan immediately noticed her troubled expression. The Zhao patriarch introduced Ji Yingying to the crowd, praising her talent. Before everyone, Ji Yingying asked the Zhao patriarch to fulfill a request.

Chen Sanlang and the others assumed she would discuss the Dou Fangfei competition. To their shock, she instead proposed completing her marriage with Zhao Xiuyuan. The crowd found her words laughable, dismissing her as foolish for bringing up personal matters in public. Zhao Xiuyuan quickly defended Ji Yingying, claiming it was his own idea. Sang Shisi felt betrayed, while others mocked Ji Yingying for wasting the opportunity to secure business.

The Yang family matriarch and others left, and the Zhao patriarch was visibly surprised by Ji Yingying’s actions. Chen Sanlang and the others were upset, suspecting Ji Yingying had ulterior motives. Sang Shisi even resigned as the honorary president, and Ji Yingying, unwilling to explain further, watched her companions drift away. Ji Yingying tried to drown her sorrows in alcohol.

Yu Linglong comforted her, learning about how Hua Rong had manipulated her, tarnishing her reputation and leaving her to bear the blame. Ji Yingying did not tell Ji Yaoting, feeling guilty for implicating him. Determined to retrieve the contract, she refused to give up. Drunk, she accidentally stumbled onto Yang Jinglan, who happened to be passing by. Yang Jinglan held out a yellow silk for her to identify, but Ji Yingying was too intoxicated.

Yu Linglong suggested that Yang Jinglan act as Ji Yingying’s sponsor. Returning with his drink, Yang Jinglan encountered Zhuge Hong, who admired his straightforwardness. While investigating the mountain, Yang Jinglan discovered someone secretly transporting silk. Zhuge Hong suspected it was related to Governor Mu Hui, but Yang Jinglan disagreed. Niu Wuniang, hearing that Yang Jinglan had purchased his official position, dismissed him as a playboy attempting to test the waters at Dou Fangfei.

Ji Yaoting went to the tavern to fetch Ji Yingying. Yu Linglong revealed the truth to him. The next day, Ji Yaoting confronted Hua Xiangrong for the contract. Hua Xiangrong refused, angering Ji Yaoting, who beat him up. Yu Linglong admired Ji Yaoting’s boldness. Zhao Shenshi suggested calling off the marriage with the Ji family, publicly humiliating Ji Yingying. Ji Xuanshi, furious, retaliated sharply.

Hearing the commotion at the door, Ji Yingying barged in, reprimanding Zhao Shenshi for making decisions without authority and leveraging the Zhao patriarch to suppress her. Left speechless, Zhao Shenshi was sent away. Ji Xuanshi did not blame Ji Yingying, believing the marriage was unnecessary and worrying about her being wronged. However, Ji Yingying argued that Zhao Xiuyuan was different from the others in the Zhao family and vowed to win the Zhao patriarch’s approval through her own merit.

Zhao Xiuyuan intended to send Ji Yingying a message but was confined at home. He recalled how meeting her as a child had given him a sense of warmth.

The Huahua Stream regained its lively atmosphere as various dye houses came to wash their silk. Ji Yingying, distracted, prepared her dye. She struggled to suppress her traumatic memories, determined to create a red dye. However, when she saw the flowing red dye, she was reminded once again of the moment Ji Guinan was executed. Zhu Xiaoniang passed by and noticed Ji Yingying nearly fainting. She advised her to stop pushing herself.

Ji Yingying, unwilling to give up, insisted on completing her new dye formula, having worked hard to develop a method to fix the color. Zhu Xiaoniang offered to help mix the formula, and Ji Yingying had no choice but to guide her from the side. At the bustling Dou Fangfei event, Yang Jinglan instructed Zhuge Hong to draft a notice promoting fair and honest transactions at the venue.

Hua Xiangrong tried to curry favor with Yang Jinglan but was dismissed by him. Zhu Xiaoniang still hoped to participate in Dou Fangfei. Unable to bear her disappointment, Sang Shisi decided to use his connections to sneak her into the event. Yang Jinglan noticed an empty booth and learned that its original owner, the Liu family, had withdrawn due to an unexpected illness. Some dye house owners tried bribing Yang Jinglan to secure the booth.

Hua Rong, following her employer’s orders, tested Yang Jinglan’s limits with a bribe. Although Yang Jinglan publicly accepted the gifts, he did not assign the booth to them and warned them not to break the law. Hua Rong was displeased, feeling tricked by Yang Jinglan. Sang Shisi swaggered into the event but was caught by Yang Jinglan, who confined him to prevent trouble. Zhuge Hong noticed Ji Yingying’s absence and assumed she had given up, but Yang Jinglan disagreed.

Suddenly, flower-decorated silk rained down from the sky—Ji Yingying had been in the attic all along, tossing flower balls. Yang Jinglan and the others followed her to the attic, where her flower balls dyed with the new formula captivated everyone. Other dye house owners wanted to place orders for the new color, but Hua Rong intervened, criticizing the dye for not being registered and thus not compliant with regulations.

Ji Yingying declared that the new color was called *Zhuyan Tuo* (Crimson Glow). Hua Rong’s remarks caused some concern, but the Yang family matriarch stepped in, paying a deposit to support Ji Yingying. Yang Jinglan, however, punished Ji Yingying by making her clean the venue, saying her flower balls amazed the crowd but failed to win their hearts. Late that night, Yang Jinglan brought out imperial silk for Ji Yingying to examine.

Ji Yingying recognized it as a counterfeit, explaining that the real imperial silk required a complex fixing process. Yang Jinglan’s words inspired Ji Yingying, and Yu Linglong delivered her a warming soup. As the repayment deadline approached, Hua Rong arrived at the Ji residence to demand payment, threatening to make Ji Yingying work off the debt if she couldn’t pay. Ji Yingying offered to supply *Zhuyan Tuo* for free and share profits, but Hua Rong refused.

Left with no choice, Ji Yingying accepted all pre-orders for *Zhuyan Tuo*, tore up the IOU in Hua Rong’s hand, and finally cleared all the Ji family’s debts. Hua Rong, however, had a backup plan. She had bribed officials from the Brocade Bureau to discredit Ji Yingying’s *Zhuyan Tuo*. Ji Yingying visited the Zhao family, where the Zhao patriarch expressed interest in purchasing *Zhuyan Tuo* and praised its vibrant hue, noting that the Yang family had placed an order first.

Ji Xuanshi felt vindicated but still cautioned Ji Yingying, fearing she might face mistreatment in the Zhao family. Zhao Xiuyuan came to meet Ji Yingying for a date. During their conversation, Ji Yingying shared her dreams, expressing a desire to reconcile with Chen Sanlang and the others first. Ji Yingying visited them one by one, but they refused to listen to her. Feeling dejected, she went to a tavern to drink and unexpectedly ran into Yang Jinglan again.

Zhu Xiaoniang brought Ji Yingying to Huahua Stream, but Chen Sanlang and the others avoided her. Zhu Xiaoniang stepped in to persuade them. When Ji Yingying was bullied by people from other dye houses, Chen Sanlang and his group came to her rescue upon hearing the commotion. After the fight, Ji Yingying apologized to Chen Sanlang and the others, proposing to reorganize the silk-dyeing association and naming it the *Feihua Society* (Flying Flower Society).

Niu Wuniang admired Ji Yingying's talent and wanted to collaborate with her, persuading her to abandon Hua Rong. Her trusted aide believed Hua Rong was ruthless but foolish. Niu Wuniang was aware of Hua Rong’s scheme to tamper with the registration records but felt uneasy, so she prepared a backup plan. Niu Wuniang decided to meet Ji Yingying in person to see her decision. At the Dou Fangfei event, Ji Yaoting helped Yu Linglong sell wine.

Ji Yingying arrived at the venue with Sang Shisi. Niu Wuniang intentionally dropped her handkerchief as she passed by, and Ji Yingying picked it up and returned it to her. Sang Shisi recognized Niu Wuniang and revealed that she was the daughter of Deputy Governor Niu. Ji Yingying learned that Niu Wuniang was fated to bring misfortune and had a proud temperament.

Yang Jingshan came to a booth to buy wine, but Yu Linglong gave him a cold reception, accusing him of being pretentious. Yu Linglong threw away a money pouch, saying it was a gift she had once given him and that their ties were now severed. During the Dou Fangfei beauty contest, Yang Jinglan announced the winners. Manager Wang and Manager Sun won second and third place, and Yang Jinglan deliberately returned the bribes they had given him earlier.

Hua Rong won first place, and Yang Jinglan returned a peony to her. Although Ji Yingying sold more than anyone else, she used the opportunity to promote her own dyed silk. Hua Rong spotted Niu Wuniang in the distance and guessed she had come to observe Ji Yingying. Realizing Niu Wuniang might side with Ji Yingying, Hua Rong decided she could not let Ji Yingying live.

That evening, Ji Yingying went to the bridge to meet Zhao Xiuyuan but was attacked by an assassin. Luckily, Yang Jinglan appeared in time, though Zhao Xiuyuan’s arm was grazed by a blade. Ji Yingying demanded that Yang Jinglan take responsibility for the incident, blaming her plight on his involvement and provocatively claiming that Hua Rong was challenging his authority. Zhuge Hong pursued the assassin and discovered that the sword used came from the palace.

When they followed the trail to Hua Rong's backyard, the assassin had already been silenced. Niu Wuniang scolded Hua Rong for acting without permission, accusing her of secretly using one of her assassins. Hua Rong explained that she only wanted to teach Ji Yingying a lesson. Niu Wuniang was displeased and demanded Hua Rong hand over all her private accounts. When Hua Rong returned home, Hua Xiangrong noticed her pale expression.

Learning that Niu Wuniang planned to abandon the Hua family, Hua Rong feared she might be silenced and arranged for Hua Xiangrong to leave first. Late that night, Yang Jinglan smashed Ji Yingying’s window, asking her to help investigate the Hua family’s accounts. Hearing it was an opportunity to expose Hua Rong’s misdeeds, Ji Yingying agreed without hesitation and sneaked out. As Ji Yingying examined the account books, she cheekily made Yang Jinglan fan her.

She discovered falsified entries, realizing that Hua Rong had deliberately created deficit accounts. Zhuge Hong explained that exposing the false accounts would be enough to charge the Hua family with a crime. Ji Yingying expressed her genuine love for Shu brocade, stating that she didn’t want anyone to tarnish its reputation. Her words moved Yang Jinglan. Ji Yingying suspected that the Hua family’s backer was in Chang’an and warned Yang Jinglan to be cautious.

The next day, Yang Jinglan arrested Hua Rong, but Hua Xiangrong had already fled. Niu Wuniang, learning of Hua Rong’s capture, remained calm and temporarily spared her life. Meanwhile, the palace was searching for Shu Red Silk. Niu Wuniang intended to recruit Ji Yingying and monopolize the production of Shu Red Silk. Hua Rong, tortured in prison and unable to sleep, begged Yang Jinglan for mercy. Yang Jinglan recalled Ji Yingying’s words and realized Hua Rong had been coerced.

Under pressure, Hua Rong confessed but clammed up when presented with the imperial silk. Yang Jinglan deduced that Hua Rong had entrusted Hua Xiangrong with a secret before her escape. Unsure whether it was a trick, he ordered guards to monitor the mountain for any activity. Yu Linglong trained Ji Yingying in self-defense techniques, encouraging her to protect herself in dangerous situations. Ji Yingying doubted her ability, but Yang Jinglan offered her new strategies.

Ji Yingying, however, was preoccupied with getting *Zhuyan Tuo* registered. Yang Jinglan delivered the stamped approval document, promising it would be sent off the next day. He apologized for misunderstanding her intentions, admitting he had underestimated her dedication. Ji Yingying was surprised by his change of heart.

Ji Yingying didn’t think much of it and was eager to return to dye her silk. Yang Jinglan gave her a special piece of paper that revealed writing when sprayed with water, calling it a gift of apology, in case she might need it. Yu Linglong approached and scolded Yang Jinglan, saying his apology was insincere. As Ji Yingying walked down the street, Yuyuan stopped her, saying that Niu Wuniang had invited her to a meeting.

Ji Yingying felt unfamiliar with Niu Wuniang, but Yuyuan lied, claiming it was to offer her an order for making silk flowers. Ji Yingying agreed. When she arrived at Niu’s residence, Niu Wuniang expressed her desire to empower women in business and proposed that they work together to dominate the silk industry in Yizhou. Niu even promised to help Ji Yingying marry Zhao Xiuyuan soon and restore her family’s honor.

Ji Yingying hesitated, but after meeting Niu Wuniang’s mother, she bluntly stated that she didn’t want to become someone like Hua Rong. Niu Wuniang was displeased. She brought out registration documents and threatened Ji Yingying into compliance. Ji Yingying suddenly realized that Niu Wuniang was Hua Rong’s secret backer. Resolute in her refusal to align with Niu, Ji Yingying attempted to leave but was captured by Niu’s people and locked in a room.

Niu demanded that Ji Yingying quickly produce the Shu Red Silk dye. Ji Yingying, wanting to avoid escalating the matter, requested to write a letter to Ji Yaoting, deliberately embedding a distress signal in it, which Yuyuan and others failed to notice. Niu Wuniang reminded Ji Yingying that power could control everything. Inside the room, Ji Yingying noticed that all the ingredients for making Shu Red Silk were present, leaving her puzzled.

Meanwhile, Niu Wuniang received a letter from General Niu regarding a potential marriage alliance. Yuyuan read the letter, which revealed that General Niu wanted Niu Wuniang to marry into the family of a military governor. Determined to take the initiative, Niu Wuniang decided to act first. Learning that Zhao Xiuyuan was Ji Yingying’s lover, she prepared to target him. Zhao Xiuyuan was lured into a private room where Niu Wuniang awaited him.

She intentionally removed her mask, revealing scars on her face, and claimed she had a message for Ji Yingying. Zhao Xiuyuan, uninterested, tried to leave, but Niu Wuniang confessed her affection for him. Startled, Zhao Xiuyuan declared his feelings only for Ji Yingying and quickly found an excuse to leave. Niu Wuniang’s scheme succeeded. She believed she could manipulate the Zhao family and decided to assert dominance over Ji Yingying.

She noticed Zhao Xiuyuan was unlike other men, unbothered by her scars or background, and decided to exploit the Zhao family while intimidating Ji Yingying. Days passed, and Ji Yingying was unsure whether Ji Yaoting had received her letter. Mammy angrily stormed in, realizing Ji Yingying had deliberately sent her away. She harshly whipped Ji Yingying and locked her back in the room. Ji Yingying accidentally touched red dye, triggering her inner fears and causing her to collapse on the floor.

Mammy scolded her harshly and locked her up again. Meanwhile, Elder Zhao learned about Niu Wuniang’s meeting with Zhao Xiuyuan and reprimanded him for disrespecting her. Elder Zhao announced he had sent a marriage proposal to Niu Wuniang, believing the union would bring prosperity to the Zhao family. In frustration, Zhao Xiuyuan injured his hand to threaten Elder Zhao into reconsidering, but Elder Zhao stood firm, insisting Zhao Xiuyuan reflect on his actions.

Niu Wuniang requested another meeting with Zhao Xiuyuan, but he remained disinterested. Yuyuan deliberately freed Ji Yingying, giving her a chance to escape. However, Niu Wuniang had already arranged for archers to target her. From his seat, Zhao Xiuyuan witnessed this and realized Niu Wuniang was using her power to coerce others.

Ji Yaoting raised funds and rushed to a tavern, where Yu Linglong deduced that Ji Yingying’s letter was a cry for help and confirmed she was trapped in Niu’s residence. As Ji Yingying attempted to escape, an arrow struck the ground near her foot. Zhao Xiuyuan used chopsticks to hold Niu Wuniang hostage, demanding Ji Yingying’s release. Niu Wuniang threatened Zhao Xiuyuan, while Ji Yingying took a maid hostage in a bid to secure her own freedom.

However, Niu Wuniang ruthlessly ordered her people to shoot the maid dead. Witnessing this, Ji Yingying was once again overcome with fear. Zhao Xiuyuan believed that seizing the marriage proposal document would compel Niu Wuniang to relent. After hesitating, Ji Yingying was recaptured and locked in the dungeon. At a critical moment, Yang Jinglan and his group stormed Niu’s residence and finally found the imprisoned Ji Yingying. Niu Wuniang put on a dramatic act, whipping Yuyuan in front of Yang Jinglan, but he saw through her performance.

Yang Jinglan returned to Jinguang Mansion and discovered that Hua Rong had died. Upon examination, it was confirmed that Hua Rong had been poisoned by snake venom. Zhuge Hong suspected it was part of a conspiracy. After some thought, Yang Jinglan found Hua Rong’s death suspicious and decided to take a gamble. He ordered the news of Hua Rong’s death to be spread, hoping to lure Hua Xiangrong out of hiding.

Yu Linglong tended to Ji Yingying’s wounds and reassured her not to be afraid. Ji Yingying, however, was still consumed with guilt. She hadn’t expected Niu Wuniang to actually kill the maid and was unprepared to face such ruthless enemies. She lamented how Niu Wuniang and her accomplices treated lives so callously. Ji Yingying asked Yu Linglong to keep the matter a secret from her mother and brother, vowing not to back down despite Niu Wuniang’s power.

Yang Jinglan came to visit Ji Yingying. Keeping her word, Ji Yingying promised to tell him what he wanted to know. Seeing her resolve, Yang Jinglan hesitated and mentioned his suspicions regarding Ji Guinan’s death. Ji Yingying, while aware of hidden truths, admitted she was powerless but remained confident that she would eventually succeed in creating Shu Red Silk. Concerned about her family business, she allowed Yang Jinglan to arrange for her to be cleaned up and escorted back home.

Meanwhile, Yuyuan criticized Niu Wuniang for recklessly killing Hua Rong, worried it would draw attention. Niu Wuniang, however, dismissed the concern, asserting that there was no genuine love in marriage and that Hua Xiangrong wouldn’t return. She planned to pressure Ji Yingying further into collaborating with her. At the Ji family’s gate, a group of merchants who had previously placed orders surrounded the house, demanding refunds when they discovered the family didn’t have proper registration documents.

Ji Yingying returned just in time and pleaded with the merchants for leniency, promising to deliver the goods on schedule. The merchants remained unconvinced and attempted to storm the house to seize items. Zhuge Hong intervened, declaring that he had been ordered to guard the Ji family and forbade anyone from entering or leaving. Ji Yingying realized that although the action seemed strict, Yang Jinglan was protecting them. The merchants, unwilling to escalate the situation, left begrudgingly.

The red flower cakes in the market had been bought out, leaving Chen Sanlang and others unable to purchase any. Ji Yaoting crawled in through a dog hole, thinking it was impossible to enter through the main gate. Yuyuan speculated that without red flower cakes, Ji Yingying wouldn’t be able to dye silk, potentially driving the Ji family to ruin. When asked about the mountain’s situation, Yuyuan replied that it was temporarily inaccessible.

Yang Jinglan, to delay the investigation, spread rumors about the loss of the Lei Zu statue, prompting villagers to search the mountain. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiuyuan arrived at the Ji family gate, hoping to speak honestly with Ji Yingying, but the guards barred his entry. Ji Yingying crawled out through the dog hole, only to be caught red-handed by Yang Jinglan. He took her on horseback to find Chen Sanlang and coincidentally ran into Zhao Xiuyuan on the way.

Zhao Xiuyuan hesitated, telling Ji Yingying to handle her affairs first. As thunder rumbled and rain poured down, Zhao Xiuyuan stood alone, drenched and filled with anguish and frustration. After completing her tasks, Ji Yingying asked Yang Jinglan to take her to Zhao Xiuyuan, sensing something was troubling him. However, Zhao Xiuyuan was hiding in a corner, crying in despair, unsure of how to face Ji Yingying.

Meanwhile, Niu Wuniang visited the Zhao family to urge them to finalize the wedding date, and Elder Zhao set the wedding at the end of the month. On the delivery day, the lead merchant, who had been bribed by Niu Wuniang, caused a commotion outside the Ji family’s residence. Ji Yingying delivered the promised silk as scheduled. Chen Sanlang and his group brought the silk to the merchants for inspection.

Despite the quality, the lead merchant falsely claimed it was counterfeit and not the genuine Zhu Yan Tuo silk. Yang Jinglan arrived with his men, verified the silk, and vouched for Ji Yingying, ensuring the transaction proceeded. The lead merchant then brought up the issue of registration documents, alleging that the silk was part of illegal trade. Yang Jinglan intentionally stalled for time until Sang Shisi returned with the documents.

Unexpectedly, it was Inspector Sang who arrived, having been coerced by Niu Wuniang, and he intended to arrest the Ji family. Ji Yingying’s mother knelt and pleaded with the inspector to uphold justice. At the critical moment, Sang Shisi rushed in with an imperial decree and the registration documents, allowing Ji Yingying to complete the transaction successfully. Yuyuan realized too late that they had fallen into a diversionary trap; the documents they obtained were merely decoys. Ji Yingying, feeling vindicated, knew Niu Wuniang was watching outside. She boldly approached Niu Wuniang’s carriage and got in willingly.

Ji Yingying got into the carriage and locked eyes with Niu Wuniang. She declared that she had planned ahead and made preparations for two possible outcomes. Niu Wuniang, sensing Ji Yingying’s attempt to suppress her using the situation, remarked that they were no different from each other. Ji Yingying brought up the letters and revealed that she had already replaced the red flower cakes with madder root, catching Niu Wuniang in her trap.

She asserted that this alone proved Niu Wuniang had lost. However, Niu Wuniang remained unfazed. Smiling sarcastically, she mocked Ji Yingying for overestimating herself and stated that she had already achieved her goal. She then handed Ji Yingying a wedding invitation. Seeing Zhao Xiuyuan listed as the groom, Ji Yingying thought Niu Wuniang was lying, but Niu Wuniang urged her to confirm it with Zhao Xiuyuan.

Feeling uneasy, Ji Yingying arranged to meet Zhao Xiuyuan on a bridge, wanting to hear about the marriage directly from him. Zhao Xiuyuan confirmed the wedding date, pretending to stay calm. He deliberately avoided explaining to protect Ji Yingying from harm. Ji Yingying, upset, guessed that Zhao Xiuyuan was being threatened but vowed not to give up. Zhao Xiuyuan claimed that marrying Niu Wuniang would grant him power and that he couldn’t resist such temptation.

Ji Yingying didn’t believe him, accusing him of giving up on their relationship. When Yu Linglong and others learned about Zhao Xiuyuan’s marriage, Yu Linglong was so angry that she wanted to confront him immediately. However, Ji Yingying acted indifferent and told everyone to eat and drink well, insisting they not worry about her. Madam Ji noticed her daughter’s hidden sadness and advised her not to force herself to drink.

Members of the Feihua Society stood by Ji Yingying, who ended up drinking several bowls, declaring that no one would leave until they were all drunk. Zhao Xiuyuan tried on his groom’s attire but was distracted, constantly thinking about his past with Ji Yingying. Meanwhile, Ji Yingying took back the token she had gifted him and, recalling his hurtful words, stayed up all night in pain.

Madam Ji, wanting to comfort her, quietly stayed by her bedside and shared why she had married Ji Guinan, suggesting that Zhao Xiuyuan wasn’t worth grieving over. Unable to hold back any longer, Ji Yingying broke into tears. Yang Jinglan, slumped in the hall, was spotted by Zhuge Hong, who noted that he hadn’t gone home the previous night.

Zhuge Hong advised him not to let his emotions affect his duties, hinting that this was a chance for him to show his worth to Ji Yingying. However, Yang Jinglan believed that truly liking someone meant empathizing with her, regardless of whether they could be together. Zhuge Hong argued that Ji Yingying was strong-willed and would recover quickly, but Yang Jinglan knew she was only pretending to be strong.

A guard reported that Yuyuan had gone up the mountain, leading Yang Jinglan to suspect that this maid, favored by Niu Wuniang, wasn’t simple. Meanwhile, Yu Linglong made soup to comfort Ji Yingying, who had come to terms with the situation. Ji Yingying acknowledged that Zhao Xiuyuan hadn’t wronged her and fondly remembered his kindness in the past.

Yu Linglong encouraged her to find someone more aligned with her values, but Ji Yingying confessed she couldn’t let go of Zhao Xiuyuan. Changing the topic, Ji Yingying began discussing business, deciding to capitalize on their momentum and prioritize weaving brocade. Yang Jinglan invited Ji Yingying to Wangyou Lake, suggesting she throw her worries into its depths.

Ji Yingying carefully placed the token she had gifted Zhao Xiuyuan into a floating lantern, letting it sink into the lake according to her wishes. Yang Jinglan teasingly demanded thirty coins for the lantern, making Ji Yingying feel like she had been swindled. His words suddenly sparked her interest in the names of places in Shu. Curious to hear more stories, she watched as Yang Jinglan drew his sword and performed, wishing her a bright future.

Yu Linglong and Ji Yaoting conspired to vent Ji Yingying’s frustration by replacing the Zhao family’s nameplate with one that read “Heartless Mansion. ” Meanwhile, Yang Jinglan used his qinggong skills to escort Ji Yingying home, only to find the main gate left open. The two joked with each other, and Ji Yingying expressed her gratitude for Yang Jinglan’s comfort. Late at night, Yang Jinglan, disguised, ventured to the mountain, only to fall into an ambush.

Fighting alone, he discovered it was Niu Wuniang’s trap. He removed his mask and remarked that the death of the fourth Jinguang would cause chaos. Niu Wuniang invited him into a cave, where he found Zhuge Hong and other guards captured. Niu Wuniang presented the Shu Red Silk and told Yang Jinglan to take it back as proof of his success.

Feigning ambition, Yang Jinglan claimed he wanted power and wealth and agreed to follow her orders, even stamping a document for her. Despite her suspicion, Niu Wuniang concluded that they were now in the same boat.

Yang Jinglan came to find Ji Yingying. Seeing that he was injured, Ji Yingying hesitated for a moment. Yang Jinglan assumed she was worried about being implicated, but despite her outward denial, Ji Yingying quickly helped him treat his wound. Noticing a figurine on the table, Yang Jinglan learned that Ji Yingying planned to enter the brocade industry. She intended to collaborate with brocade households to sell brocade clothing. Yang Jinglan praised her ambition.

Using a curtain for privacy, Ji Yingying treated Yang Jinglan’s sword wound and noticed he seemed troubled. Yang Jinglan confided in her, saying that since becoming an official, he hadn’t felt at ease. He mentioned his mentor, Shen Jinguang, and expressed doubt that his death was due to illness. Ji Yingying became curious and began considering whether to collaborate with Yang Jinglan.

Yang Jinglan took out a strand of red silk he had retrieved from a corpse, but Ji Yingying immediately recognized it as fake—though it closely resembled authentic Shu Red Silk. She learned that Shen Jinguang had been investigating Ji Guinan’s murder before his death, leaving her unsure whether to trust the information. When Zhao Xiuyuan noticed the family nameplate had been replaced, he didn’t pursue the matter.

He believed that as long as he had power, he could protect those he cared about. Zhuge Hong, however, was worried and warned that Yang Jinglan must not deliver the Shu Red Silk to the palace. Yang Jinglan insisted on completing the task and instructed Zhuge Hong to search for an area near San Tan where blue wildflowers grew, suspecting it to be Niu Wuniang’s secret base.

Zhuge Hong feared Yang Jinglan was gambling with his life, especially since General Niu was returning to the city soon—a person even harder to deal with. General Niu entered the city with great fanfare, welcomed by Inspector Zhang and others who lined up to greet him.

Yu Shu informed Ji Yingying that Inspector Zhang was an informant for the Jiedushi (regional governor) and assured her that no matter how formidable General Niu was, he wouldn’t dare act recklessly in front of the Jiedushi. However, he also noted General Niu’s remarkable military achievements. Ji Yingying approached Yu Shu, confident in his integrity, and proposed a collaboration in brocade production. Yu Shu remarked that if Ji Yingying were a man, she would undoubtedly accomplish great things.

General Niu flew into a rage, scolding Niu Wuniang for arranging her marriage without permission. He pointed out that the Zhao family was no match for the Jiedushi. Niu Wuniang argued that by marrying into the Zhao family, she could restrain them and allow the Zhao family to rise as the Brocade King, enabling them to openly replace genuine Shu Red Silk with counterfeit products without being subordinate to the Jiedushi. General Niu thought she was being short-sighted.

Niu Wuniang assured him that she had incriminating evidence against Yang Jinglan and had already secured the true brocade house. General Niu, wanting to avoid complications, ordered her to handle the brocade house quickly but to leave Yang Jinglan alone for now. Zhao Xiuyuan paid his respects to General Niu, while Niu Wuniang used Zhao Xiuyuan’s name to present the Shu Red Silk to General Niu. Later, Niu Wuniang noticed Zhao Xiuyuan’s composure and felt a twinge of fear.

Zhao Xiuyuan, unfazed by her attempts to flatter her in-laws, reminded her to remain courteous. On the street, Ji Yingying showcased garments made from Shu Red Silk on a stage, attracting a large crowd. Ji Yaoting recited poetry, while Yu Linglong played the qin, and models displayed the brocade clothing. Just as the crowd’s interest peaked, Zhao Xiuyuan’s wedding procession with Niu Wuniang approached, demanding that Ji Yingying and her group make way.

A conflict arose, but Ji Yingying graciously gave way to Zhao Xiuyuan. The two exchanged glances, and Ji Yingying, recalling their past, finally bid him a true farewell. The Niu family’s wedding was attended by half of Yizhou’s elite, congratulating General Niu. General Niu dismissed Niu Wuniang and called upon Zhao Xiuyuan to present the Shu Red Silk he had worked on.

Everyone was astounded, and Old Master Zhao eagerly praised Zhao Xiuyuan, declaring him the future head of the family. General Niu deliberately invited the Ji siblings to inspect the Shu Red Silk. In front of the crowd, Ji Yingying exposed it as fake, urging everyone to stand up for the truth. Although someone from the Yang family supported her, General Niu used his military power to intimidate the crowd. No one dared to speak out, and the Shu Red Silk was reluctantly accepted as authentic.

Yang Jinglan subtly reminded Ji Yingying not to act impulsively, quoting words he had said to her during their childhood. Ji Yingying recognized him—he was the older boy who had helped her back then. Under General Niu's coercion, the Shu Red Silk plaque at the entrance of the Brocade Officer's residence was altered, replacing Ji Guinan's name with Zhao Xiuyuan's. As Ji Yingying left the Zhao residence, Zhao Xiuyuan called out to her.

Ji Yingying questioned him about producing fake Shu Red Silk, which harmed the cause she cared about most. She told him she wished they had never met. Zhao Xiuyuan urged Ji Yingying not to challenge those in power. He acknowledged that the fake Shu Red Silk would hurt her, but he preferred to bear that burden himself.

Madam Ji persuaded Ji Yingying to give up on Shu Red Silk, but Ji Yingying insisted that she couldn’t accept such a reversal of truth. Madam Ji asked Ji Yaoting to look after Ji Yingying, but Ji Yaoting decided to give her space to cool down. Madam Ji knelt before Ji Guinan's memorial tablet, asking for his forgiveness, as her only wish was for the family to stay safe.

Ji Yingying dreamt of Ji Guinan walking through a snowy landscape, where all colors had faded into black and white. She knelt and apologized, blaming herself for failing to protect Shu Red Silk. Ji Guinan turned back toward her and told her not to be afraid. Ji Yingying then noticed blood and woke from her nightmare, crying in anguish. Ji Yaoting rushed in but didn’t know how to comfort her.

Putting aside her grief, Ji Yingying headed straight to the Brocade Officer's residence, only to find Yang Jinglan waiting for her at the entrance. They exchanged secret signals, and Ji Yingying realized he was her old friend. Years ago, as a child, Yang Jinglan had saved her from human traffickers. Later, when tragedy struck her family, he escorted her back to the Ji household and witnessed Ji Guinan’s death.

The words he spoke back then were the same ones he had repeated today. Ji Yingying accused Yang Jinglan of hiding the truth and, in desperation, tried to use a tactic against him. Yang Jinglan dismissed it as ineffective. She probed him for secrets about the mountain and offered to collaborate, asking for protection for the Ji family. Yang Jinglan promised to keep her safe. In return, Ji Yingying needed his help to recreate authentic Shu Red Silk.

The two went to Huanhua Creek, where Ji Yingying stepped into the water and asked Yang Jinglan to sprinkle dye into it. To succeed, she had to overcome her inner fear. After many attempts, Ji Yingying finally conquered her fear of flowing red water, enduring the pain. Yang Jinglan felt both distressed and relieved for her. Zhao Xiuyuan discovered that Niu Wuniang had replaced the red silk with Shu Red Silk but said nothing.

Niu Wuniang assured him she would help him become the Brocade King. Meanwhile, Ji Yingying repeatedly tried to dye Shu Red Silk but failed, unable to pinpoint the issue. Ji Yaoting reminded her that Ji Guinan must have left her clues. She recalled a pouch left by Ji Guinan, which indeed contained a poem hinting that pomegranates were the key to Shu Red Silk. Ji Yingying climbed the mountain alone to gather pomegranates but nearly fell off a cliff.

Fortunately, Yang Jinglan used his martial arts skills to save her. She noticed his other friends nearby, one of whom, Gao Fang, joked about revealing her identity, but Yang Jinglan quickly stopped him. Later, Yang Jinglan visited Shen Jinguang’s grave, vowing to continue investigating the truth. At the annual Brocade Competition, last year’s Brocade King, the Yang family, showcased their work first. Niu Wuniang dismissed it as unimpressive.

Seeing that Ji Yingying had yet to arrive, Yang Jinglan sent Zhuge Hong to find Gao Fang and the others for help. Gao Fang and his group finally located Niu Wuniang’s hideout on the mountain. Zhao Xiuyuan presented his masterpiece, and Niu Wuniang pressured Yang Jinglan to decide the winner. Yang Jinglan deliberately delayed. Suddenly, the Ji siblings appeared, carrying a kite. Its vibrant colors drew everyone's attention. Ji Yingying announced that this was the true Shu Red Silk.

Ji Yingying invited everyone to evaluate her work, with Chen Sanlang and others cheering for her. Zhao Shen mocked Ji Yingying, claiming that as the descendant of a criminal, she had no right to participate in the Brocade Competition and demanded Yang Jinglan judge the matter. Yang Jinglan defended Ji Yingying, stating that the emperor had already pardoned her family, and he had no authority over the matter.

Ji Yingying explained that her work was a kite painting, which could also be considered a brocade painting. In response, Niu Wuniang publicly slandered her, accusing her of using fake red silk, and threatened Yang Jinglan with the Zhao Red Silk sent to him, forcing him to punish Ji Yingying. Yang Jinglan asked Ji Yingying to prove the authenticity of her silk. Ji Yingying sprayed soapberry water on Zhao Xiuyuan's brocade painting, exposing the fake red silk.

However, Niu Wuniang used General Niu's authority to pressure the judges into declaring Zhao Xiuyuan the Brocade King. Seeing the injustice, Ji Yingying left with dignity, and many spectators expressed their disappointment in the competition. This scene was witnessed by Cheng Fengze, the White King, from the mountain. Niu Wuniang threatened Yang Jinglan, accusing him of indulging Ji Yingying. She reminded him that the Zhao Red Silk had already been sent to Chang'an.

However, Yang Jinglan had prepared a backup plan. Although he had sent the Zhao Red Silk to Chang'an, it had not been delivered to the palace. Instead, he had prepared a substantial gift for Niu Wuniang. A guard reported a fire on Mount Qingcheng, and Yang Jinglan invited Niu Wuniang to investigate. He intentionally mentioned Yuyuan in her presence. When everyone arrived at Mount Qingcheng to extinguish the fire, they discovered a cave at the fire's location.

Out of curiosity, they entered the cave and found villagers who had been poisoned mute and trapped inside. Following Yang Jinglan's instructions, Sang Shisi personally escorted Prefect Sang to investigate. Prefect Sang initially refused to get involved, but Yang Jinglan led a group into the cave and demanded justice for the people, uncovering a hidden brocade workshop. Prefect Sang, unable to back down in front of the villagers, reluctantly agreed to investigate.

Yang Jinglan’s guards captured Yuyuan and others, intending to use this as evidence. However, Niu Wuniang suddenly appeared and insisted on taking Yuyuan away. Yuyuan claimed she had been abducted by mountain bandits. Before everyone, Niu Wuniang's facade began to crumble. Ji Yingying took this opportunity to publicly accuse Niu Wuniang of numerous crimes before Prefect Sang. Prefect Sang demanded evidence, so Ji Yingying brought out Hua Xiangrong, leaving Niu Wuniang panicked.

Hua Xiangrong revealed the truth, stating that he and Shopkeeper Hua had created fake red silk for Niu Wuniang. He condemned her as deeply evil and presented accounting records as evidence. While Hua Xiangrong admitted his guilt, he expressed his desire for justice for Shopkeeper Hua. Prefect Sang hesitated to accept the evidence, but Sang Shisi stepped in and took it instead.

Just as Prefect Sang was about to make a ruling, General Niu shot Hua Xiangrong with an arrow, killing him. General Niu and his men surrounded everyone. Yang Jinglan condemned General Niu for abusing his authority, but General Niu was indifferent. Ji Yingying boldly declared that the truth would spread among the people. Enraged, General Niu ordered the massacre of everyone present, sparing only Yang Jinglan and a few others, intending to silence all witnesses.

Fortunately, Inspector Zhang arrived just in time with an imperial decree. He assigned Ji Yingying the task of working with the Brocade King to complete a weaving project. Despite the ordeal, Ji Yingying remained determined and refused to back down, even though she was scared. Yang Jinglan escorted her home, where Madam Ji scolded her harshly, blaming her for meddling in the Shu Red Silk affairs.

Ji Yingying defended herself, insisting that she was right and that she could not let Ji Guinan’s name be falsely accused. Meanwhile, General Niu and Niu Wuniang staged a show to bribe Inspector Zhang into covering up the events of the day. Niu Wuniang begged General Niu for another chance, promising to find a way to blackmail Yang Jinglan. However, General Niu grabbed her by the neck and warned her not to act recklessly.

General Niu later hosted a banquet for Yang Jinglan, deliberately seating him at the upper floor of a restaurant with a clear view of assassins surrounding the Ji family’s home. He used this threat to force Yang Jinglan into revealing the identity of the person supporting him.

General Niu planned to threaten Yang Jinglan, using Ji Yingying’s exceptional skills as an excuse to place her in danger. However, Yang Jinglan refused to back down, asserting that he represented the conscience of upright court officials and was determined to purify the brocade industry in Yizhou. Suddenly, masked men in black appeared, creating chaos. Taking advantage of the distraction, Yang Jinglan jumped from the building.

General Niu blamed his subordinates for acting without orders, but they insisted that the masked individuals were not their people. The masked men pretended to attack Ji Yingying, but Ji Yaoting risked his life to protect her. When the leader of the masked group removed his disguise, he revealed himself to be Gao Fang, asking Ji Yingying to cooperate with him.

Ji Yingying, recognizing him, grabbed his sword and stabbed herself, saying they should "act thoroughly" to make the deception convincing. Prefect Sang arrived after receiving the news, only to find the masked attackers had fled. However, General Niu’s token was discovered at the scene. Prefect Sang, unwilling to involve himself in the matter, accused Yang Jinglan of orchestrating the incident. Soon after, General Niu led his men to the Ji residence, realizing it was all part of Yang Jinglan’s scheme.

Yang Jinglan calmly explained that he was responsible for supervising tribute brocade production and used General Niu’s token to turn the tables, demanding General Niu take responsibility for protecting Ji Yingying. He deliberately suggested that doing so would dispel any rumors. Ji Yingying played along, feigning grievance in front of everyone, saying that she and Niu Wuniang had unresolved personal disputes, which might lead to others exploiting their families’ connections.

General Niu was reluctant to agree, but Yang Jinglan threatened to report the matter to the military governor. Fearing repercussions, General Niu had no choice but to temporarily comply. Yang Jinglan intended to force General Niu into a position where he could not harm Ji Yingying. Yuyuan felt guilty, believing her capture had caused Niu Wuniang to suffer punishment.

However, Niu Wuniang reassured her, saying that Yuyuan had been her companion through difficult times and that she would prove herself without relying on any man. Zhao Xiuyuan barged in angrily, accusing Niu Wuniang of going back on her word and almost causing Ji Yingying’s death. Niu Wuniang retorted that she was in charge and mocked Zhao Xiuyuan for his lack of real authority. Yang Jinglan, meanwhile, expressed displeasure at Ji Yingying’s willingness to risk her life.

Ji Yingying argued that pretending to be attacked was a necessary strategy to prevent General Niu and his allies from retaliating. She understood that Yang Jinglan’s intention was to strike preemptively. While Yang Jinglan believed General Niu would not act against Ji Yingying for the time being, he worried that the presentation of the tribute brocade would bring greater danger.

Ji Yingying, determined to protect her family, aspired to become an imperial merchant so no one would dare bully the Ji family. She also handed over a list related to an old murder case, believing it could aid Yang Jinglan in his investigation. Zhao Xiuyuan sought to meet Ji Yingying, but Madam Ji refused, prioritizing her recovery. Yang Jinglan also barred them from meeting, stating there was no need for personal interaction during the brocade production.

Zhao Xiuyuan accused Yang Jinglan of hurting Ji Yingying, but Yang Jinglan retorted that Zhao Xiuyuan’s betrayal was far worse. Zhao Xiuyuan countered, saying Ji Yingying understood his actions. At the Zhao residence, Zhao Dalang complained to Old Master Zhao, claiming Zhao Xiuyuan’s involvement in the fake red silk scandal had disgraced their family. However, Old Master Zhao dismissed the complaint, emphasizing the importance of uniting the brocade houses to produce the tribute brocade.

Suddenly, Zhao Xiuyuan appeared, impersonating General Niu to publicly force Old Master Zhao to relinquish his position. Old Master Zhao scolded Zhao Xiuyuan for being overly ambitious, but when Zhao Xiuyuan had his men impersonate guards and issue threats, Old Master Zhao reluctantly gave in. Outside the Brocade Official’s Mansion, Yang Jinglan publicly announced that, due to Ji Yingying’s revival of Shu Red Silk, the establishment would be renamed in her honor. The crowd applauded enthusiastically.

Watching from inside a sedan chair, Zhao Xiuyuan clenched his fists in anger. Ji Yingying thought of Ji Guinan and felt she had lived up to his expectations. Later, Yang Jinglan invited Ji Yingying to the mansion and returned the Shu brocade retrieved by Shen Brocade Official. Ji Yingying speculated that in the old murder case, Ji Guinan had been framed as a scapegoat and that someone had deliberately forged the brocade.

A guard reported that Yang Juxian was requesting an audience. Yang Jinglan refused, unwilling to reconcile with him. Ji Yingying comforted him, encouraging him to follow his heart and reminding him they were allies. Meanwhile, Ning Dai, Cheng Fengze’s junior sister, discovered that infiltrating the brocade industry could start with the Niu, Zhao, and Xu families.

However, Cheng Fengze was dissatisfied with merely observing and launched a grand initiative, offering golden leaves as rewards to anyone who contributed designs for brocade production.

Ji Yingying taught everyone how to distinguish silk, aiming to improve the service standards of Feihua Guild. However, Chen Sanlang and others were dispirited, worried that no one would patronize the guild and fearful of offending General Niu. Jiang Liulang mentioned hearing about a foreign merchant who spent lavishly, attracting people to admire brocade paintings, which piqued Ji Yingying's interest.

Zhu Xiaoniang, unwilling to go through with a marriage arranged by her parents, ran away from home and sought refuge with Ji Yingying. Sang Shisi tried to cheer her up by saying he was willing to marry her, but she refused. Ji Yingying decided to take her to the foreign market for a change of pace. Yu Linglong, upon hearing about this foreign merchant, suspected he was either a fool or had ulterior motives.

At the foreign market, the trio encountered a dancing woman who captured their attention, but it turned out she was just trying to sell pastries. Ji Yingying used the opportunity to ask about Cheng Fengze's location and reminded the dancer not to overdo her sales tactics. Cheng Fengze’s stall was bustling, with someone offering a “century-old” brocade painting for bidding. Ji Yingying stepped forward and declared the brocade to be worth zero coins.

Cheng Fengze gave her a chance to explain. Ji Yingying argued that doing business requires integrity. She acknowledged the brocade wasn’t fake but doubted it was as old as claimed. The seller, angered, almost lashed out at her, accusing her of slander. Cheng Fengze intervened, allowing Ji Yingying to elaborate, leaving the seller speechless. Frustrated, the seller decided not to sell the brocade but to use it as a display piece instead.

Cheng Fengze introduced himself and invited Ji Yingying to his home to examine more pieces, promising her three gold leaves if she could identify a counterfeit. Yu Linglong reminded Ji Yingying it was getting late, but Ji Yingying insisted on going, asking Yu Linglong and Zhu Xiaoniang to return home and reassure Madam Ji. At Cheng Fengze’s residence, Ji Yingying found that all the items were genuine. Cheng Fengze praised her sharp eye and gave her one gold leaf.

Ji Yingying invited him to do business with her, but Cheng Fengze said he was only interested in collecting and didn’t understand dyeing techniques. Although disappointed, Ji Yingying offered to introduce him to the best brocade makers in Yizhou, hoping to use this deal to build goodwill. Cheng Fengze’s subordinates suggested that Ji Yingying could help him infiltrate the Yizhou brocade industry, but Cheng Fengze chose to bide his time, waiting for the right moment.

Meanwhile, Zhao Xiuyuan waited outside the Ji residence, wanting to help Ji Yingying. He suggested they walk the streets together to dispel rumors, but Ji Yingying refused. She declined his financial support and urged him to let go of the past. Zhao Xiuyuan assured her he would never harm her but said he had to publicly oppose Niu Wuniang for now and couldn’t openly assist Ji Yingying.

Yang Jinglan, initially confident that exposing the mountain incident would bring General Niu to justice, found himself frustrated by General Niu’s immense power. Fortunately, Yang Jinglan had support behind the scenes, which deterred General Niu from acting against him for the time being. Remembering Shen Brocade Official’s words, Yang Jinglan believed Shen would have left clues even at the cost of his life. Digging up Shen’s grave, Yang Jinglan discovered that Shen’s remains indeed held a crucial hint.

Yu Shu planned to sell his brocade workshop, and both Grandmother Yang and Cheng Fengze wanted to purchase it. Ji Yingying, uninterested in bidding higher, proposed that Feihua Guild invest in the Yu family, supplying silk while the Yu family focused on weaving brocade. She believed this would help the Yu family through their difficulties. Cheng Fengze countered that buying the workshop would allow him to collaborate with Ji Yingying.

However, Yu Shu hesitated, and Niu Wuniang threatened him with harm to Yu Xi, forcing him to sell the workshop to Zhao’s Brocade King. Worried about Yu Xi’s safety, Yu Shu prioritized her well-being over the workshop. Ji Yingying lamented that when business becomes entangled with power, it loses its integrity. She secretly hoped Yang Jinglan could soon purify the Yizhou brocade industry.

Yang Jinglan pieced together a pattern from the clues on Shen’s remains, which Zhuge Hong identified as a dispatch order for transportation officials. Yang Jinglan planned to visit the military governor to investigate further. Meanwhile, Yu Shu refused to see anyone, so Ji Yingying decided to approach Yu Xi for information but unexpectedly ran into Cheng Fengze. Cheng Fengze played chess with Yu Xi and lost every match, but Ji Yingying won.

Yu Xi then revealed an ancient-patterned brocade painting, saying it was Yu Shu’s most prized possession.

Ji Yingying learned that Yu Shu wanted to fulfill his son’s last wish of completing the ancient pattern design. She decided to set off with Zhu Xiaoniang and Yu Linglong to Gubei Village to search for the pattern and persuade Yu Shu. Zhu Xiaoniang, traveling so far from home for the first time, was thrilled. Upon arriving in Gubei Village, Zhu Xiaoniang was immediately captivated by the intricate patterns.

Ji Yingying, hearing about a sacrificial ceremony, eagerly followed to see what was happening. Cheng Fengze suddenly appeared, intentionally lingering in Ji Yingying’s view. Yu Shu asked the village elders for support, emphasizing the importance of his son’s ancient pattern. However, the village chief declared that outsiders were not allowed into the village. Cheng Fengze commented that Yu Shu was too fixated on the past, to which Ji Yingying retorted that Cheng Fengze was also stubborn.

Cheng Fengze replied that his only fixation was on Shu brocade. Ji Yingying asked Yu Linglong to distract Cheng Fengze while she discussed matters with Yu Shu. Understanding Yu Shu’s dedication, she gained his respect. He praised her courage and determination to revive the art of Shu red dyeing but lamented that the Yu family no longer had anyone to inherit such a legacy. Meanwhile, Cheng Fengze exchanged a few polite words with Yu Linglong before leaving.

Observing his powerful movements, Yu Linglong concluded that he was a martial artist. Cheng Fengze sneaked into the ancestral hall and discovered the ancient-patterned brocade box unlocked. Upon opening it, he found it empty. When villagers caught him, they accused him of stealing the brocade. The village chief blamed Yu Shu, accusing him of colluding with outsiders to steal the brocade. When Ji Yingying heard about the theft and Cheng Fengze’s capture, Cheng Fengze deliberately implicated her in the matter.

Yu Shu promised that if the brocade was recovered, he would hand over the brocade workshop. Ji Yingying sought the brocade using psychological tactics to gain the chief’s cooperation. She noticed Liu Er’s suspicious behavior. Pressured, Liu Er confessed that he had damaged the brocade while urgently needing money. He pleaded for forgiveness, explaining that he thought the villagers were too poor and that selling the brocade would help them repay debts.

Seeing the situation, Ji Yingying suggested a plan to help the villagers: Yu Shu could repair the brocade and sell it to generate income to support the village. Yu Shu hesitated, but Ji Yingying convinced him that this was the only way to strengthen the Yu family and ensure their protection. At the military governor’s camp, Yang Jinglan impressed the governor with his courage and intelligence.

He informed the governor about General Niu’s misconduct and requested permission to investigate the case to avenge his master, Shen Brocade Official. The governor, initially dismissive of Shen Brocade Official’s significance, was surprised to learn that he was a former grand tutor who had gone into hiding. He advised Yang Jinglan to proceed cautiously. While at the camp, Yang Jinglan saw the transportation officer who had killed Ji Guinan.

Ji Yingying and her companions worked tirelessly for days to repair the ancient-patterned brocade. Once completed, Ji Yingying urged Yu Shu to collaborate with her to preserve the legacy of Shu brocade. Finally, Yu Shu agreed. The villagers, grateful for their efforts, prepared hot wine to celebrate. Cheng Fengze joked about their survival after the ordeal, and Ji Yingying encouraged him to be more honest, suggesting that they might work together in the future.

Watching Ji Yingying’s cheerful demeanor, Cheng Fengze thought about acquiring the brocade workshop and patterns, but he also found Ji Yingying’s unique personality intriguing. Yang Jinglan had been waiting outside the city gates. When he saw Ji Yingying’s carriage return, he questioned Cheng Fengze’s background. Cheng Fengze exaggerated, claiming that he and Ji Yingying had shared life-and-death experiences, which annoyed Yang Jinglan.

Ji Yingying quietly returned home, trying not to alert Madam Ji but was surprised to find Zhu Xiaoniang’s mother waiting. Zhu Xiaoniang declared that she didn’t want an arranged marriage. She wanted to carve her own path and prove her capabilities to her parents. Ji Yingying comforted her, acknowledging that the path chosen by parents is easier but affirming her support for Zhu Xiaoniang’s decision. On her way back, Zhu Xiaoniang ran into Sang Shisi.

He promised to persuade his father and formally propose marriage to her family. However, Zhu Xiaoniang rejected his offer, stating that she didn’t want an arranged match. She wanted a partner who could walk alongside her as equals, turning down Sang Shisi’s feelings.

Zhu Xiaoniang directly rejected Sang Shisi, explaining that her ideal partner was not him. She didn’t want to hurt him but also didn’t want to drag things out. Meanwhile, Cheng Fengze instructed Ning Dai to bribe Zhou Wang into duplicating the flower patterns they had woven and transport the designs and silk threads in batches to Nanzhao.

For now, he left the original flower patterns at the Yu family’s workshop, intrigued by Ji Yingying’s talent and anticipating her potential to surprise him. At home, Ji Yingying was dyeing Shu red silk when Yang Jinglan pretended to inspect her work, using it as an excuse to see her. Ji Yingying deliberately ignored him, but Yang Jinglan warned her to be cautious of Cheng Fengze, saying that he was an enigmatic and shrewd businessman.

Ji Yingying dismissed his concerns, believing that Cheng Fengze’s boldness in dealing with both the Niu and Zhao families could make him a valuable business partner. Yang Jinglan grew frustrated that Ji Yingying didn’t trust him, but she explained that she wanted to rely on herself to grow stronger. Yang Jinglan held her hand, gazing at her with deep affection, and said that his promises would last a lifetime.

Ji Yingying was stunned, but their moment was interrupted by the sound of the锅盔 (a snack vendor). Distracted, Ji Yingying noticed how the light reflected off the dye on her clothes and came up with a new idea. Niu Wuniang personally cooked a meal for Zhao Xiuyuan and asked him to rest in her room, complaining that he hadn’t touched her since their marriage.

Zhao Xiuyuan refused, mocking her intentions to conceive a child and use it to control the Zhao family. Niu Wuniang retaliated by destroying Zhao Xiuyuan’s new design samples and threatening him with General Niu’s influence. Zhao Xiuyuan dismissed her, confident in his value to the Niu family. Ji Yingying introduced Ji Yaoting to Yu Shu, who presented a He Sui brocade design. Impressed, Yu Shu agreed to let Ji Yaoting join the Yu family’s brocade workshop.

Ji Yingying proposed creating a new brocade design called *He Sui Liu Bo Brocade*. While Yu Shu acknowledged the idea’s creativity, he pointed out that innovation required substantial financial backing, which neither the Yu family nor the Feihua Guild could provide. When Ji Yingying learned that the project would cost 90 guan, she vowed to find a way to raise the funds. Heartbroken, Sang Shisi drowned his sorrows at a tavern, wailing drunkenly.

Ji Yingying advised him to focus on his strengths and strive to become a respectable man who could earn a living. She tasked him with sending invitations to major brocade merchants, inviting them to a tavern auction to invest in the *He Sui Liu Bo Brocade*. Meanwhile, Ning Dai warned Cheng Fengze to keep his distance from Ji Yingying, fearing that Yang Jinglan might uncover their dealings.

Cheng Fengze dismissed her concerns, saying that Ji Yingying needed to stay rational, and began plotting ways to separate her from Yang Jinglan. Zhuge Hong accompanied Yang Jinglan to the auction, surprised to find Yang Jinglan’s grandmother in attendance. Sang Shisi warmly greeted the guests but didn’t provide a private room for Yang Jinglan. Upon hearing that Cheng Fengze had a reserved room, Yang Jinglan felt uneasy.

Zhu Xiaoniang smoothed things over by arranging a seat for him among their own group, and only then did Yang Jinglan settle down. Ji Yingying introduced the auction to the attendees, explaining that the winner could earn profits from the new brocade and encouraging them to start bidding. Suddenly, Niu Wuniang entered and offered 20 guan, causing a stir. No one dared to bid against her until Zhao Xiuyuan arrived and raised the bid to 60 guan.

Niu Wuniang muttered under her breath, accusing Zhao Xiuyuan of trying to sabotage her. Ji Yingying firmly stated that neither of them had been invited and thus could not participate in the auction. She asked Yang Jinglan to intervene. Yang Jinglan urged the Zhao family to give face to the Brocade Official Bureau. Anticipating that attendees might hesitate to reveal their identities, Ji Yingying had prepared screens to ensure privacy for the bidders.

Sang Shisi was the first to ring the bell, followed by the Yang family, who offered 70 guan. Finally, Cheng Fengze raised the bid to 100 guan. Ji Yingying thought the deal was sealed, but Sang Shisi unexpectedly rang the bell again and outbid Cheng Fengze. With no further bids, Ji Yingying had no choice but to announce Sang Shisi as the winner, though she felt a bitter sense of helplessness.

Afterward, Ji Yingying candidly admitted to Cheng Fengze that Sang Shisi was one of her own people and expressed her hope to still do business with him. Cheng Fengze, having already guessed the truth, agreed but set three conditions, including supervising work at the Yu family’s brocade workshop. Yu Shu approved but stipulated that Cheng Fengze could not interfere with the weaving process.

Cheng Fengze expressed his willingness to follow Yu Shu's arrangements and wished for the successful completion of the new brocade by both parties. Yu Shu specially organized a ceremony to open the brocade workshop. Ji Yaoting stepped inside, finding the environment familiar from the past. Cheng Fengze visited the Yu family, and Ji Yingying guided him on a tour. They discussed the core of the flower pattern, but their views differed.

Cheng Fengze, intrigued, asked about the essence of brocade weaving. The two of them entered the workshop and saw Chen Sanlang arguing with the senior master weaver. Ji Yingying quickly diverted Cheng Fengze, intending to introduce him to Ji Yaoting. However, they encountered disagreements there too, with everyone holding different opinions and arguing incessantly. Observing the chaos, Cheng Fengze sarcastically remarked that his 100 guan investment might go down the drain.

That evening, everyone gathered for a meal, but no one touched their food, claiming they were already full from the tension. In the first team challenge, Ji Yaoting partnered with the senior master weaver. After the master posed a question, Ji Yaoting’s answer was deemed unacceptable. Both of them accidentally fell from the seesaw they were using for their challenge. Upon Ji Yaoting's explanation, the master admitted his own knowledge was insufficient.

Cheng Fengze praised the activity as a clever method to assess skills, expand knowledge, and foster collaboration. He proposed a contest with Ji Yingying, publicly testing her sincerity in doing business. Ji Yingying’s witty response left Cheng Fengze at a loss for words. At that moment, Yang Jinglan happened to pass by and saw Ji Yingying nearly fall from the seesaw. He used a rope to catch her, but Cheng Fengze taunted him, suggesting he wait his turn to "play.

" Ji Yingying jumped down on her own, asserting that she was not a toy to be tugged around. She noticed Yang Jinglan holding Shu red silk and teasingly provoked him. Cheng Fengze, observing their ambiguous interaction, concluded that Ji Yingying was too entangled in emotions to achieve great things. Later, Yang Jinglan approached Ji Yingying to apologize for tampering with the silk threads and presented her with a handmade roller chair as a gift.

Intrigued, Ji Yingying immediately sat on the chair and glided around. Yang Jinglan asked her to teach him about brocade, hoping to get closer to her life. Ji Yingying blindfolded him and attempted to sneak away but was caught by him. Left with no choice, Ji Yingying stayed and, feeling awkward, refrained from touching Yang Jinglan’s hand, letting him explore the brocade by himself.

While she was distracted, Yang Jinglan brushed her hand, prompting her to instinctively step back and nearly fall. He caught her, and the red silk cloth accidentally covered both of them. Yang Jinglan removed the cloth and expressed his feelings for her. Embarrassed, Ji Yingying remarked that he had stepped on her foot. Alone, Ji Yingying replayed Yang Jinglan’s words in her mind, her heart fluttering. She leaned by the window, glancing outside to see if Yang Jinglan might appear.

Meanwhile, the tribute brocade was completed, and Zhao Xiuyuan personally inspected it. Niu Wuniang cautioned him to stay out of the brocade’s escort mission, warning that he might end up like Ji Guinan if he got involved. Despite the warning, Zhao Xiuyuan insisted on escorting the tribute brocade. Yang Jinglan did not intervene. Ji Yingying wanted to accompany the team out of concern for his safety, but Yang Jinglan hinted for her to wait for his return in Yizhou.

General Niu, learning of the brocade’s departure, sent his men to shadow the convoy and wait for an opportunity to act. Under a tree, Ji Yingying prayed for Yang Jinglan’s safe return. Cheng Fengze walked by, and Ji Yingying gave him a red silk thread. During the journey, the group stopped at a relay station where the supervising official suggested resting. That night, the official attempted to swap the tribute brocade, intending to frame Yang Jinglan for theft.

However, Yang Jinglan had anticipated this and orchestrated a play with Gao Fang and the others, making the official believe that General Niu was planning to silence him. Fearing for his family’s safety, the official agreed to cooperate with Yang Jinglan. Gao Fang relayed the news to Ji Yingying, explaining their intention to bring the official back to Yizhou for interrogation. However, General Niu had already foreseen this and led his troops straight to Yizhou.

Ji Yingying mobilized the townspeople, gathering them in the streets, while Zhuge Hong escorted the official there and exposed his role in framing Ji Guinan. Although the official confessed, he denied being directed by anyone. When General Niu returned to the city, the official dared not accuse him. Ji Yingying stepped forward, demanding a continued interrogation of the official, but Zhuge Hong worried about the risks to her safety. General Niu insisted on taking the official back for further investigation. Ji Yingying roused the townspeople, urging General Niu to uphold the rights of Yizhou’s brocade industry.

Niu Wuniang preemptively captured the wife and children of the supervising official, Du Yu. General Niu, not wanting the situation to escalate, decided to let the Brocade Bureau interrogate Du Yu, knowing he wouldn’t dare speak recklessly. Afterward, General Niu left with his troops. Ji Yingying, worried about Yang Jinglan, insisted on waiting at the city gate for his return. Her Feihua Society companions initially kept her company but gradually left as dinner time passed, leaving Ji Yingying alone.

Yang Jinglan deliberately returned late, worried that General Niu's troops might alarm the people of Yizhou. Ji Yingying figured out his intention. Yang Jinglan congratulated her, saying she had finally cleared Ji Guinan's name, and she was no longer tied to a disgraced family. Ji Yingying anxiously asked if he was injured, but Yang Jinglan reassured her, saying it was thanks to her that he now had a home. The two exchanged smiles.

Zhao Xiuyuan, watching from a distance, felt deeply hurt. Back home, Zhao Xiuyuan believed Ji Yingying had changed. He burned the kite he had cherished for so long. Thinking of the tacit understanding between Ji Yingying and Yang Jinglan, he convinced himself that Yang Jinglan had deliberately deceived him. Niu Wuniang mocked Zhao Xiuyuan, accusing him of cooperating with Yang Jinglan to curry favor with Ji Yingying but ending up in a no-win situation.

Zhao Xiuyuan retorted, but Niu Wuniang coldly stated he was celebrating too early, revealing that she had already made contingency plans. Zhao Xiuyuan began to suspect Niu Wuniang had leverage over Du Yu. During Zhuge Hong’s interrogation, Du Yu said little of substance, but his home was found to contain items from Nanzhao. Ji Yingying believed the key lay with Du Yu’s wife and daughter.

Yang Jinglan instructed Gao Fang to ensure their rescue, hoping to compel Du Yu to tell the truth. Noticing Yang Jinglan's fatigue, Ji Yingying grabbed his hand and ordered him to rest. Zhao Xiuyuan discovered the location of Du Yu’s wife and daughter and deliberately went to the Brocade Bureau. In front of Ji Yingying and Yang Jinglan, he accused them of not trusting him. Ji Yingying, unwilling to take risks with Ji Guinan’s case, hesitated.

Zhao Xiuyuan appealed to their emotions, claiming that General Niu already saw him as a thorn in his side and insisted he was on their side. To spare Ji Yingying further distress, Yang Jinglan agreed to let Zhao Xiuyuan meet Du Yu. Du Yu mocked Zhao Xiuyuan for being distrusted. Zhao Xiuyuan, however, intentionally revealed a token belonging to Du Yu’s wife and daughter. Ji Yingying believed him and admitted she shouldn’t have doubted Zhao Xiuyuan.

Later, Zhao Xiuyuan invited Ji Yingying to a bridge, where he poured out his feelings and solemnly apologized. Ji Yingying refused to listen, saying she didn’t want to start over with him and wouldn’t dwell on the past either. Enraged, Zhao Xiuyuan, feeling humiliated after enduring so much for her, snapped. As Ji Yingying tried to leave, he struck her unconscious and abducted her. Back in the cell, Yang Jinglan discovered that Du Yu had committed suicide.

He immediately suspected Zhao Xiuyuan of colluding with General Niu. Meanwhile, Ji Yingying woke up to find herself tied to a bed, dressed in bridal attire. Zhao Xiuyuan entered the room and completed a wedding ritual, forcibly trying to marry her. Ji Yingying’s eyes filled with tears, not knowing what to do. At the critical moment, Yang Jinglan burst in, beat Zhao Xiuyuan severely, and carried Ji Yingying home. After being beaten, Zhao Xiuyuan laughed maniacally.

Once he sobered up and left the room, Niu Wuniang visited to mock him. Ji Yingying couldn’t return home, so Yang Jinglan took her to a pavilion. Seeing her silent, he felt heartbroken. Finally, Ji Yingying said she was hungry. Yang Jinglan told her not to wander around and went to get her food. General Niu summoned Zhao Xiuyuan, accusing him of opposing him.

Zhao Xiuyuan countered by claiming to have killed Du Yu, resolving a major problem for General Niu to prove his loyalty. General Niu praised Zhao Xiuyuan for his boldness and suggested he assist Niu Wuniang. However, Zhao Xiuyuan refused. General Niu immediately understood that Zhao Xiuyuan aimed to replace Niu Wuniang as the real power holder.

Zhao Xiuyuan proved his capabilities, and General Niu agreed to grant him real authority, stating that as long as someone showed loyalty, he would reward them. Zhao Xiuyuan got his wish. Meanwhile, Niu Wuniang knelt outside the door, repeatedly apologizing to General Niu, but he refused to see her. Zhao Xiuyuan couldn’t wait to flaunt his success and ordered Niu Wuniang to go home. Zhuge Hong publicly announced a proclamation clearing Ji Guinan's name of past injustice.

Du Yu’s family was executed, and their confiscated property was handed over to the Ji family. Ji Xu-shi took her children to pay respects to Ji Guinan at his grave. She expressed her relief that the injustice had finally been rectified and urged Ji Yingying to avoid causing trouble in the future. Ji Yingying wanted to stay and speak her heartfelt thoughts to Ji Guinan.

Ji Xu-shi deliberately sent Ji Yaoting away but stayed behind to listen to Ji Yingying’s words. Ji Yingying mentioned Yang Jinglan and expressed her wish to continue working with him to restore peace to Jinye. Ji Xu-shi didn’t want Ji Yingying to take any more risks. She used this opportunity to thank Yang Jinglan and invited him to the Ji residence alone. Yang Jinglan felt it was only natural, as he deeply admired Ji Yingying.

Ji Xu-shi brought up the topic of finding a marriage match for Ji Yingying and asked for Yang Jinglan's input. Initially, Yang Jinglan intended to recommend himself, but Ji Xu-shi emphasized that she hoped the person could provide Ji Yingying stability and take her away from trouble. She assured that as a mother, she would immediately approve of such a match. Hearing this, Yang Jinglan couldn’t bring himself to speak.

Understanding Ji Xu-shi’s concerns, he promised not to let Ji Yingying face danger again. Yu Shu announced the successful completion of the He Sui Liu Bo Jin project, and everyone celebrated together. Yang Jinglan, feeling he shouldn’t disrupt Ji Yingying’s happiness, chose not to join the festivities. Instead, he quietly wished for her well-being. Late at night, Yang Jinglan reflected on Ji Xu-shi’s words, resorting to drinking and sword practice to ease his troubled thoughts.

Cheng Fengze stood under the wishing tree, lost in thought. Ning Dai questioned whether he had developed feelings, reminding him of his purpose in Yizhou. Cheng Fengze reprimanded her for her impertinence and told her to recite the rules of the Bai household, stressing that she must forget her past and obey orders.

He ordered Ning Dai to return to Nanzhao to prepare the area and forbade her return, suspecting that Yang Jinglan would not let the Bai family go unchecked. Yang Jinglan planned to investigate Nanzhao alone. Before departing, he left a letter with Zhuge Hong, expressing concerns about possible dangers and urging Zhuge Hong to return to Chang’an and pursue scholarly success if anything happened to him.

Zhuge Hong refused, insisting that since he had come this far, he would stand with Yang Jinglan to face challenges together. Ji Yingying overheard their conversation and curiously asked Yang Jinglan where he was going, but he avoided answering directly. Ji Yingying shared her excitement with him, bringing a gold tassel she had made herself. Yang Jinglan recognized it as part of the He Sui Liu Bo Jin design.

He politely declined, stating that such a gift carried too much significance for an alliance. Ji Yingying was puzzled, thinking she might have been overstepping, and asked him why. Yang Jinglan replied that he didn’t mean to offend her. As Ji Yingying turned to leave, he reminded her to take care of herself. Sensing that he was hiding something, Ji Yingying grew frustrated and stormed off. Zhuge Hong, puzzled, questioned Yang Jinglan’s evasiveness.

Yang Jinglan explained that the promises of a lover and an ally are different. He feared the dangers of his journey to Nanzhao and felt that as a lover, he would be obligated to live cautiously and not make rash commitments. Meanwhile, Ji Yingying vented her frustrations to Yu Linglong. When Ji Yaoting approached, she thought he was there to persuade her to return for matchmaking.

Instead, Ji Yaoting sided with Ji Yingying and teased Yu Linglong about her romantic interests. However, Yu Linglong replied that she had no intention of marrying again, leaving Ji Yaoting disheartened. Sitting in the courtyard, Ji Yingying reminisced about her experiences with Yang Jinglan and decided to confront him the next day. Yang Jinglan passed by her door but avoided being seen. When Ji Yingying arrived at the Brocade Bureau, she learned that Yang Jinglan had just left.

She quickly prepared a carriage to chase after him, taking a shortcut to intercept him on the mountain. Seeing her, Yang Jinglan waved for her to go back, silently hoping she would wait for him. Ji Yingying shouted that she would wait for his return. Cheng Fengze ordered his men to copy the Yu family’s patterns and gather information about all the craftsmen, planning to collaborate with Zhao Xiuyuan.

Meanwhile, Niu Wuniang, confined to her quarters, learned that Zhao Xiuyuan was drowning his sorrows in alcohol. She deliberately sent a message through Niu Shen-shi, urging him to find a way to marry Ji Yingying.

Zhao Shen-shi deliberately provoked Zhao Xiuyuan, urging him to take Ji Yingying back from Yang Jinglan and make her fall in love with him again. Meanwhile, Cheng Fengze visited the Yu family and noticed the members of the Feihua Association were in high spirits. He learned that Manager Qian from Tubo was negotiating a business deal and had offered to pay three times the price to purchase the Liubo brocade.

Ji Yingying escorted Manager Qian out, and he gave Cheng Fengze a quick glance. Everyone was concerned about this order, but Ji Yingying explained that she had already turned it down. Sang Shisi and the others felt it was a shame and blamed Yu Shu for not stopping her. Yu Shu defended the decision, explaining that although the deal was attractive, the client demanded it be completed in a very short time.

If something went wrong, the Feihua Association wouldn’t be able to bear the massive compensation. Ji Yingying reassured them, saying that the association was developing steadily and there was no need to take unnecessary risks. Sang Shisi noticed the gloomy atmosphere and announced he would treat everyone to a meal at Sanhua Tower in five days. However, the others, still preoccupied with the canceled order, paid no attention to the upcoming gathering.

Cheng Fengze, curious about the date, asked about its significance, but Sang Shisi was too disheartened to explain. Ji Yingying learned that a guest had arrived at her home, only to discover it was her aunt. She and Ji Gui returned home and greeted her aunt loudly, only to be scolded for lacking proper manners. During the meal, her aunt criticized her speech and reminded her to follow etiquette.

Later, Ji Yingying overheard her aunt talking and realized her uncle, Li Feng, was once again trying to curry favor with the family. She felt he was insincere. Ji Yaoting defended their aunt, saying she had willingly helped their family during difficult times. Ji Xu-shi envied the fact that her sister-in-law's children were already married. The aunt brought gifts, giving Ji Yaoting a jade hairpin and Ji Yingying a belt, wishing they could pass them on to their future partners.

Summoning his courage, Ji Yaoting gave the jade hairpin to Yu Linglong and confessed his feelings, revealing that he had admired her for three years. However, Yu Linglong explained that she valued her freedom and didn’t want to endure another heartbreak. Disheartened, Ji Yaoting returned home. Ji Yingying, noticing his troubled expression, learned that Yu Linglong had rejected him. She believed Yu Linglong was protecting herself, but Ji Yaoting felt he hadn’t done enough.

Despite this, he vowed not to give up and to prove himself through his actions. Five days later, Sang Shisi had made arrangements, and everyone had gathered, presenting him with lanterns to celebrate his birthday. Cheng Fengze showed up uninvited but had sent an invitation in advance this time. He asked Ji Yingying if she considered him a friend. Ji Yingying plucked a flower petal and advised him to be sincere.

Zhao Xiuyuan offered Cheng Fengze a deal, proposing benefits in exchange for cooperation. Cheng Fengze suggested buying shares in the Zhao family’s brocade business and promised to help Zhao Xiuyuan win Ji Yingying’s favor. Meanwhile, Ji Yingying’s aunt observed her friends and warned her not to marry hastily. Ji Yingying dismissed her concerns, insisting she didn’t want her aunt speaking ill of her friends behind their backs.

She expressed her desire to achieve something meaningful rather than dwelling on romantic matters. Feeling hurt, her aunt accused her of being ungrateful and threatened to return home. Suddenly, someone arrived at the Ji residence, claiming that Li Feng had racked up gambling debts and that Ji Xu-shi needed to gather money, or else her daughter would be sold into servitude. Ji Xu-shi was panicked, unsure where to find the funds.

Ji Xu-shi suggested reporting the matter to the authorities, but her sister-in-law refused, fearing the scandal would ruin her daughter’s marriage prospects. She instead asked the Feihua Association for financial assistance. Faced with the dilemma, Ji Yingying decided to reconsider Manager Qian’s order. To her surprise, everyone actively helped with preparations. Ji Yingying asked Sang Shisi to investigate Manager Qian’s true identity. When they approached Sanhua Tower, they found Cheng Fengze waiting.

He offered to lend money to Ji Yingying to help her through the crisis, though she didn’t fully trust him. Ji Yingying tested Manager Qian and confirmed that he was indeed from Tubo. She then signed a deal to purchase a large quantity of raw silk. Ji Yaoting worried the plan was too risky, but Ji Yingying, determined to help her aunt, decided to take the gamble.

Meanwhile, Yang Jinglan investigated the Bai family and discovered that the Cangjin Pavilion housed both Shu brocade and Liubo brocade. Ning Dai, disguised as a thief, attempted to capture Yang Jinglan. However, Yang Jinglan had prepared for this and revealed that his companions would expose to the world that the Bai royal family was secretly hoarding Shu brocade.

After Ji Yingying helped Li Xu-shi resolve her difficulties, Li Xu-shi prepared to leave, and Ji Xu-shi decided to escort her partway. Ji Xu-shi reminded Ji Yingying to stay home and not take any unnecessary risks. Meanwhile, Cheng Fengze, in collaboration with Zhao Xiuyuan, observed that Ji Yingying would compromise for the sake of family, just as he had predicted. Zhao Xiuyuan cautioned him against overstepping boundaries.

Niu Wuniang drank alone in her room, venting her frustrations about being stuck indoors all day. Upon hearing that Ji Yingying had taken on a major order, she assumed Zhao Xiuyuan’s actions were always tied to Ji Yingying. Yu Yuan, unable to track Zhao Xiuyuan’s whereabouts, listened as Niu Wuniang declared her intent to bring about Ji Yingying’s downfall. Consumed by jealousy over Ji Yingying being cared for while she herself was ignored, Niu Wuniang vowed to act.

To prove her loyalty, Yu Yuan promised to help Niu Wuniang deal with Ji Yingying. When Ji Xu-shi was escorting Li Xu-shi home, Li Feng shamelessly demanded more money from them. Li Xu-shi rebuked Li Feng for his audacity, which enraged him. He lashed out at Li Xu-shi and hinted at coveting the Ji family’s wealth, infuriating Ji Xu-shi, who slapped him in anger. Li Feng stormed off to the ship’s deck, claiming he needed fresh air.

Ji Gui rushed back in a panic to deliver bad news: something had happened to Ji Xu-shi. Ji Yingying and her brothers hurried to the dock, where they saw Ji Xu-shi with her hands chained and covered in blood. A boatman accused Ji Xu-shi of murdering Li Xu-shi, and Li Feng emerged to corroborate the claim. Ji Xu-shi protested her innocence, insisting she hadn’t killed anyone.

The county officials presented witnesses and evidence, concluding that Ji Xu-shi was guilty of murder, and took her to the magistrate for questioning. The Ji siblings waited anxiously outside the county office, attempting to gather information but were turned away. Inside, the magistrate, while entertaining Zhao Xiuyuan with tea, assured him that they would act in accordance with the Zhao family’s wishes and show no leniency.

Ji Yingying initially planned to confront Li Feng but decided instead to have Ji Yaoting find a legal advocate to defend their mother. Just then, Ji Gui rushed in again, reporting that raw silk had been stolen from their home. Ji Yingying returned alone to investigate, discovering that the thieves had taken no money. As she pondered the situation, a fireball was shot through the window, trapping her inside as the room went up in flames.

Cheng Fengze, believing Ji Yingying would succumb to her struggles, was conflicted—he didn’t want her to end up as Zhao Xiuyuan’s concubine. Upon hearing about the fire at the Ji residence, he rushed to rescue Ji Yingying. Although his subordinates criticized him for being reckless, Cheng Fengze dismissed their concerns, claiming he wanted to use his life-saving act as leverage. The Feihua Association rallied together, devising ways to address their challenges.

Zhao Xiuyuan arrived to express his concern for Ji Yingying, suggesting that she needed his help to find the arsonist. However, Yu Linglong and Ji Yaoting drove him away, as Ji Yingying didn’t want to see him. Zhao Xiuyuan suspected Niu Wuniang’s involvement in the fire and subjected Yu Yuan to cruel punishment, mocking Niu Wuniang for being inferior to Ji Yingying.

Hearing that Yu Yuan’s life was in danger, Niu Wuniang knelt down, admitted her wrongdoing, and pleaded for Zhao Xiuyuan’s mercy. Meanwhile, the Ji brothers approached Sang Changshi for assistance, hinting at a mastermind behind the incidents. Sang Changshi, however, expressed his inability to intervene. Ji Yingying reflected on the string of events, blaming herself for the turmoil. She suddenly thought of Yang Jinglan, which only deepened her feelings of grievance and sorrow.

Out of gratitude for saving her life, she brought gifts to thank Cheng Fengze. Seeing her sincerity, Cheng Fengze smiled but then intentionally brought up helping her free Ji Xu-shi, demanding that she command the Feihua Association to serve him. Feeling betrayed, Ji Yingying took back her written promise and stormed off in anger. Sang Shisi located the gambling Li Feng, tied him up, and interrogated him, but his carelessness revealed his connection to Ji Yingying.

Realizing this, Li Feng firmly accused Ji Xu-shi of the murder. Ji Yaoting then submitted a petition to the prefect, seeking justice, but was forcibly removed and tortured by the guards. Despite this, Ji Yaoting remained resolute, even at the cost of his hands being crippled. Yu Linglong tried to persuade him to yield, but he refused.

Ji Yaoting endured severe torture, determined to seek justice for his mother. Yu Linglong rallied the townspeople, hoping to draw public attention. Sang Shisi threw a banana peel, hitting a guard, while Ji Yingying followed and knelt down, loudly proclaiming their grievances and demanding to see Prefect Zhang. Prefect Zhang appeared, reprimanding the guards and addressing their misconduct. He scolded Ji Yaoting for his audacity but, moved by his filial piety, allowed him to visit Ji Xu-shi in prison.

Due to his injured hands, Ji Yaoting didn’t want to worry their mother and asked Ji Yingying to visit her instead. Ji Yingying found Ji Xu-shi gravely ill in prison and pleaded with the prison warden to allow her to prepare medicine. Initially reluctant, the warden agreed after seeing the silver Ji Yingying offered. Ji Xu-shi tearfully told Ji Yingying that she was innocent, explaining that she had been knocked unconscious during the incident.

Ji Yingying comforted her, vowing to find a way to rescue her. The two embraced, weeping. Yu Linglong applied medicine to Ji Yaoting’s wounds and praised him for his boldness, though reckless, calling it a true act of manhood. Ji Yaoting, increasingly drawn to Yu Linglong, expressed that he had no regrets and valued life over brocade. He even admitted he was willing to do anything for her. As Ji Yingying left the courthouse, Zhao Xiuyuan was already waiting.

Pretending to be sincere, he suggested that Ji Yingying stay by his side as a condition for saving Ji Xu-shi. Ji Yingying dismissed him, finding his reliance on General Niu’s authority laughable and refusing to understand his motives. Cheng Fengze, gazing at flower petals, recalled Ji Yingying’s words and concluded that they were not on the same side and couldn’t trust each other fully. Meanwhile, General Niu invited Cheng Fengze to meet outside the city gates.

Using secret signals, they discussed plans to open trade routes. Cheng Fengze instructed General Niu to secure the main roads to facilitate the brocade trade. General Niu, hearing about Cheng Fengze rescuing Ji Yingying from the fire, speculated that Cheng Fengze had feelings for her. Cheng Fengze clarified that he only valued her talent, as she was the only one capable of making tribute brocade.

General Niu, aware that Yang Jinglan was in Nanzhao, declared he would ensure Yang wouldn’t return alive. Cheng Fengze similarly arranged for assassins to intercept him. Yang Jinglan, suspecting that someone was impersonating Prince Bai while the real prince remained in Yizhou, learned from Gao Fang that there was a bounty on his head. Despite the danger, he resolved to return to Yizhou upon hearing of Ji Yingying’s peril.

He tasked Gao Fang with drawing a portrait of Prince Bai to confirm if it matched the person in his thoughts. Desperate, Ji Yingying considered doing business with the Yang family. She pleaded with Grandmother Yang to use her brother’s official position to pressure the authorities into releasing Ji Xu-shi. Grandmother Yang, learning that Ji Yingying was willing to offer a share of the brocade profits and reveal the dyeing method for Shu red silk, saw her determination.

She proposed that Ji Yingying marry Yang Jinglin, making him a natural ally who could support her. After some contemplation, Ji Yingying agreed. Yu Linglong criticized the Yang family for taking advantage of Ji Yingying’s plight and warned them not to harm her. Yang Jinglan, riding away from Nanzhao, was ambushed by soldiers. With help from Gao Fang and others, he managed to escape. Meanwhile, Yu Linglong advised Ji Yingying to wait for Yang Jinglan.

However, Ji Yingying consoled herself, believing marriage wasn’t a bad thing. She saw it as the best choice and asked for Yu Linglong’s help. Late at night, Ji Yingying thought of Yang Jinglan, struggling with her emotions but convinced she couldn’t wait for him any longer. When Ji Yaoting learned of Ji Yingying’s impending marriage, he offered all his remaining wealth as her dowry and tearfully blessed her. Ji Yingying knelt to bid him farewell.

As she prepared to enter the Yang family’s wedding sedan, she turned away, overwhelmed with pain. Meanwhile, Yang Jinglan rode desperately toward Yizhou but was ambushed again by General Niu’s men. His horse was cruelly killed, and Yang Jinglan, gravely injured, realized that assassins lay in wait ahead.

Yang Jinglan rode alone, while archers had already set an ambush along the way. Using an assassin’s corpse as a decoy, he lured their attention and discovered their positions, only to find they were far more numerous than expected. His horse, Treading Snow, was struck by a hail of arrows and killed. Overcome with grief and anger, Yang Jinglan endured his injuries and fought ten men at once.

Exhausted and surrounded by heavy troops, he was on the brink of being captured when Gao Fang arrived with reinforcements. Ji Yingying arrived at the Yang family in a wedding sedan, her expression emotionless, while Yang Jinglin smirked crookedly. As they prepared to bow to each other in the marriage ceremony, a sword flew in and pierced the ceremonial silk ball. Ji Yingying turned sharply to see Yang Jinglan, battered and bloodied, standing at the doorway.

Yang Juxian, alarmed, asked him what had happened. Yang Jinglan accused Yang Jinglin of taking advantage of the situation and declared he would never agree to the marriage. Yang Jinglin retorted but was shoved to the ground by Yang Jinglan. Yang Jinglan declared his intent to take Ji Yingying away and warned everyone not to stop him. Grandmother Yang called out to him, criticizing his rashness and lack of consideration for Ji Yingying’s reputation.

Hearing this, Yang Jinglan hesitated and turned to Ji Yingying. Tearfully, Ji Yingying gently pushed his hand away, saying that the marriage was voluntary and she could not break her promise. Yang Jinglan, furious, threatened to cut out anyone’s tongue who spread rumors, but Grandmother Yang pointed out that such actions couldn’t silence everyone. To resolve the matter, Yang Jinglan publicly proposed to marry Ji Yingying himself.

Yang Juxian scolded him for delaying Yang Jinglin’s marriage plans, and the two began arguing. Grandmother Yang intervened to settle the matter, agreeing to let Yang Jinglin withdraw from the arrangement. Ji Yingying agreed to marry Yang Jinglan, but his injuries caused him to faint. Magistrate Meng, not wanting to offend the Yang family, released Ji Xu-shi and summoned a physician to examine her.

Zhao Xiuyuan arrived to investigate the situation and learned that Yang Jinglan had returned to marry Ji Yingying. When Yang Jinglan regained consciousness, Ji Yingying was by his bedside, crying. She felt even more heartbroken knowing that he had returned to protect her at all costs. Yang Jinglan wiped the tears from her face, reassuring her that he could not leave her. Ji Yingying, overwhelmed with guilt, didn’t know how to repay him.

To ease her distress, Yang Jinglan jokingly said it was merely cooperation, promising to write her a divorce letter once everything was resolved, as he couldn’t bear to see her unhappy. Yang Jinglan then presented the Shu Red wedding dress, which he had taken back from Prince Bai, returning it to Ji Yingying. The two freshened up and prepared for a new wedding ceremony. Representatives from various dye houses of the Flying Flower Association arrived to offer congratulations.

However, just as the house was filled with guests, the Deputy Commander barged into the Yang residence with soldiers, claiming to arrest Yang Jinglan under General Niu’s orders, accusing him of massacring military officers. Yang Jinglan produced the Crown Prince’s Fish Talisman, prompting everyone to kneel. Only the Deputy Commander doubted its authenticity. Yang Jinglan revealed his identity, and the Thousand Ox Guards descended from the roof under the Crown Prince’s orders to protect him.

The Deputy Commander, unwilling to offend the Crown Prince, reluctantly withdrew his troops. Zhao Xiuyuan witnessed the scene and tactfully left. Sang Shisi teased Yang Jinglan, calling him “Inspector Yang. ” Although Yang Jinglan wanted to continue the ceremony, his injuries prevented him from standing. Grandmother Yang suggested completing the ceremony immediately, and Ji Yingying agreed. Everyone carried Yang Jinglan back inside to proceed.

That evening, Ji Yingying let Yang Jinglan sleep on the bed while she stayed on the floor, ready to change his bandages as needed. While tidying up the bedding, Ji Yingying accidentally fell into Yang Jinglan’s arms, and the two exchanged an awkward glance. Ji Yingying expressed her concern about General Niu’s retaliation, but Yang Jinglan reassured her that, knowing his identity, General Niu would not dare act recklessly for now.

Ji Yingying felt a deep sense of gratitude for Yang Jinglan’s return, which gave her a rare feeling of security. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiuyuan admitted defeat, but Cheng Fengze urged him not to give up. Zhao Xiuyuan pointed out that Cheng Fengze also had feelings for Ji Yingying. Cheng Fengze denied this, saying he was merely a businessman interested only in Yizhou’s brocade industry.

A dancer approached Zhao Xiuyuan to test him, and he confessed he couldn’t let go of Ji Yingying. Cheng Fengze suggested destroying the relationship between the Yang family and Ji Yingying, but Zhao Xiuyuan mocked the idea. Infuriated, Cheng Fengze nearly strangled the dancer and instructed his subordinates to investigate the Yang family’s internal affairs, planning to dismantle it from within.

Yang Jinglan stayed awake all night, watching as Ji Yingying woke up. Grandmother Yang arranged for the maids, including Jin Xiu, to serve them. Ji Yingying personally helped Yang Jinglan dress. Yang Jinglan told Ji Yingying not to mind the Yang family’s rules, saying the most important matter now was to rescue Ji Xu-shi. Ji Yingying went to the boatman again to gather information, as Yang Jinglan needed to rest at home. Zhuge Hong accompanied Ji Yingying.

The boatman was impatient, complaining about bloodstains soaking into the wooden deck that needed cleaning. Ji Yingying urged him to recall the events of that night. Reluctantly, and for the sake of money, the boatman revealed that Li Feng had stepped out for fresh air and that he vaguely heard an argument, but he didn’t witness Ji Xu-shi committing murder. Ji Yingying found incense ash on the boat and learned that the incense burner had disappeared after the incident.

Zhuge Hong presented the evidence, and Ji Yingying noticed that the stains on the clothing were not blood but dye. She began to suspect that Li Feng was the real murderer and that Magistrate Meng was deliberately avoiding a thorough investigation. Yang Jinglan pretended to act as a judge during a mock trial to help Ji Yingying organize her thoughts. Ji Yingying raised three points of suspicion, and Yang Jinglan assisted her in deducing logical evidence.

On the day of the trial, Ji Yingying presented evidence to Magistrate Meng for review, including the incense ash, which was found to contain traces of datura. Magistrate Meng dismissed it, claiming her words lacked proof. Following Yang Jinglan’s instructions, Zhuge Hong testified that the incense ash came from the boat and hinted that someone orchestrated the murder. Ji Yingying then produced the outer garment.

Although Magistrate Meng deliberately avoided clarifying the matter, the crowd saw that the garment bore a mix of dye and blood. Ji Yingying retraced the entire case and identified Li Feng as the real culprit. Li Feng denied it, accusing Ji Yingying of slandering him. Magistrate Meng, after glancing at Zhao Xiuyuan in the crowd, hastily moved to convict Ji Xu-shi. Ji Yingying countered by presenting a witness—the boatman—who testified that Li Feng was the murderer.

The boatman admitted he initially stayed silent to avoid trouble. Panicking, Li Feng confessed under pressure, claiming he was coerced by a man in black into committing the crime. He inadvertently revealed everything. Magistrate Meng was in a dilemma, torn between offending the Niu family and the Yang family. Learning that Zhao Xiuyuan had already left, he prioritized public opinion and finally convicted Li Feng, releasing Ji Xu-shi. Ji Yingying and her brother personally brought Ji Xu-shi home.

Ji Xu-shi, upon hearing that Ji Yingying had married into the Yang family, felt guilty for burdening her. However, Ji Yingying assured her that she didn’t feel wronged and confessed she had long admired Yang Jinglan. Ji Xu-shi accepted Yang Jinglan, blessed their union, and was genuinely happy for them. Ji Yingying suggested that Ji Xu-shi go to Jiangnan with her brother, but Ji Xu-shi suspected she wanted to face risks alone. Yang Jinglan personally visited Ji Xu-shi.

Ji Yingying, worried about his health, anxiously wanted to open the door, but Ji Xu-shi reminded her to remain composed. Ji Yaoting deliberately tested Yang Jinglan, who had no answers to his questions but promised to respect and care for Ji Yingying, allowing her to be herself. Ji Xu-shi was satisfied and apologized for almost disrupting their fate. She personally handed Ji Yingying over to Yang Jinglan.

Zhuge Hong delivered wedding gifts in the name of the Crown Prince, granting Ji Yingying much respect. Yang Jinglan, determined not to mistreat her, ensured no one would gossip about them. Yang Jinglan escorted Ji Yingying back to the Yang residence. Sitting together in the carriage, their hands accidentally brushed. As Yang Jinglan leaned in to kiss her, the carriage jolted, interrupting the moment. The two exchanged awkward glances, visibly embarrassed.

Yang Jinglan kept staring at Ji Yingying, who blushed and urged him to start a conversation. Yang Jinglan began talking about his relationship with the Crown Prince, revealing that both of them were disciples of Shen Jingguan. To uncover the truth behind Shen Jingguan’s death and expose the mastermind in Yizhou, he had personally requested this mission.

Yang Jinglan became suspicious of Cheng Fengze, realizing he was actually Bai Wang. Ji Yingying was filled with questions, unsure why Cheng Fengze had approached her in the first place. Yang Jinglan reassured her not to worry, saying that the more pressing matter at hand was dealing with the Yang family’s clan elders. Grandmother Yang invited Ji Yingying to attend a family banquet, but Yang Erye was displeased with her, as a woman, sitting at the same table.

He accused Yang Jinglan of breaking family rules, with Yang Jinglin adding fuel to the fire. Other clan members mocked Ji Yingying’s improper marriage, infuriating Yang Jinglan, who deliberately snapped his chopsticks in anger. Ji Yingying wanted to leave to avoid further conflict, but Grandmother Yang spoke up in her defense. However, Yang Erye intentionally suggested associating the Feihua Guild with the Yang family, trying to mislead others into doubting Grandmother Yang’s intentions.

Yang Jinglan stood up for Ji Yingying, calling the banquet a chaotic mess before leaving with her. He didn’t want Ji Yingying to feel wronged and understood the challenges she was facing. He expressed his willingness to face them together with her, pointing out that in a large family like the Yangs, clan members were bound to test and manipulate. Ji Yingying knew Yang Jinglan’s insights came from his personal experiences.

Although Yang Jinglan denied it, he knew Ji Yingying understood these dynamics but didn’t want him to strain his relationship with his family. Yang Juxian criticized Grandmother Yang for involving Ji Yingying, pointing out that the banquet was her deliberate ploy to discipline the clan elders. Grandmother Yang praised Ji Yingying’s intelligence and grace, insisting she was not a malicious person and genuinely wished for the young couple to live happily.

Yang Juxian worried the plan might fail, citing Yang Jingshan’s marriage as an example. Grandmother Yang, however, remarked that truly loving couples wouldn’t give up because of obstacles. The family banquet ended without a meal. Ji Yingying made noodles for Yang Jinglan, who thoroughly enjoyed them, saying they tasted like home. Ji Yingying mischievously teased him with wine, only to forbid him from drinking it, leaving Yang Jinglan to stare longingly.

Ji Yingying abruptly brought up life in the jianghu, asking Yang Jinglan why he stayed, knowing the jianghu offered more freedom. Yang Jinglan replied that it was for her, expressing that his feelings for her went beyond mere alliance. He confessed his love. Ji Yingying, having waited to hear those words, kissed him in response. Yang Jinglan took Ji Yingying to the ancestral hall to introduce her to his late mother, saying she was the woman he loved deeply.

Ji Yingying paid her respects and promised to take good care of Yang Jinglan. Yang Jinglan shared his parents’ story, revealing that his mother had deeply loved Yang Juxian but lost her freedom due to the Yang family’s rigid rules. He vowed not to follow in his father’s footsteps and only wanted Ji Yingying to be herself. Ji Yingying was deeply moved, saying Yang Jinglan was like the moon.

She gave him a sword tassel, promising that once everything was resolved, she would accompany him on his journey through the jianghu. Yang Erye caused trouble at the Feihua Guild, demanding that Ji Yingying associate the guild with the Yang family. He insisted that the guild’s profits should largely go to the Yang family, with only a small portion left for the other dye houses. Ji Yingying smiled and calmly replied that she was no longer the guild leader.

Before Yang Erye’s arrival, Ji Yingying had convened everyone and held a public vote to elect Yang Sanlang as the new guild leader. Yang Erye tried to intimidate her, saying that if the Feihua Guild wasn’t tied to the Yang family, she would face trouble. However, Yang Sanlang stood firm, driving Yang Erye away. The crowd cheered in support. Yang Jinglan wanted Ji Yingying to know more about him but struggled to put it into words.

Zhuge Hong visited with new wine, but Yang Jinglan refused to drink, saying Ji Yingying wouldn’t allow it. Zhuge Hong mentioned that he was investigating the foreign merchants but needed more time due to their numbers. Yang Jinglan instructed him to return to Nanzhao to retrieve something that could expose Cheng Fengze’s true identity.

Ji Yingying carried the Feihua Guild’s banner to the Huanhua Stream, where she led a handover ceremony to officially pass the banner to Yang Sanlang, allowing him to establish new rules for the guild. Yang Sanlang pledged that the guild would always support Ji Yingying whenever she needed help. Cheng Fengze appeared at Huanhua Stream to meet Ji Yingying, claiming he wouldn’t turn hostile with her and wanted to make peace for business purposes.

Ji Yingying, recalling Yang Jinglan’s suspicions, found an excuse to leave. Suddenly, it started raining. Without an umbrella, Ji Yingying was sheltered by Cheng Fengze. Fortunately, Yang Jinglan arrived in time to rescue Ji Yingying from the awkward situation.

Ji Yingying suspected that Cheng Fengze’s arrival in Yizhou was no coincidence. On the surface, he seemed interested in business negotiations, but she believed she might uncover some clues. Yang Jinglan, feeling jealous, refused to trust Cheng Fengze and worried that Ji Yingying might get hurt. He warned her not to take unnecessary risks. Ji Yingying reassured him by holding his hand and telling him she would be careful. Grandmother Yang summoned Ji Yingying.

Ji Yingying thought she was going to be scolded, but unexpectedly, Grandmother Yang didn’t mind what had happened. She understood Ji Yingying had been wronged at the banquet and lamented the complex rules of the Yang family. However, she emphasized that this matter concerned the Yang family’s reputation, and Ji Yingying needed to contribute to the family.

Ji Yingying admitted that she was no longer the Feihua Guild’s leader and was frustrated about how to achieve something for the Yang family. Grandmother Yang handed over the management of Yang Jinglan’s shop to Ji Yingying, who was happy to accept the responsibility. Grandmother Yang reminded her to learn the rules and maintain good relationships within the family. Late at night, Yang Erye was drinking on the streets and cursing Ji Yingying.

Suddenly, someone appeared from behind and kidnapped him. When he arrived at a secret location, Yang Erye recognized Cheng Fengze as a foreign merchant and questioned why he had been kidnapped. Cheng Fengze proposed a partnership, offering to help Yang Erye seize the position of the Yang family head. Yang Erye initially wanted to leave but was tempted by Cheng Fengze’s words.

He feared Ji Yingying would take over the Yang family’s business and eventually agreed to cooperate by stealing the Yang family’s merchant list in Chang’an. Cheng Fengze handed the list to Zhao Xiuyuan, instructing him to travel to Chang’an to take over the Yang family’s business. He planned to make everyone purchase Zhao family silk, aiming to bankrupt the Yang family and leave Ji Yingying with no place to turn.

Zhao Xiuyuan imposed a condition: Cheng Fengze must purchase a large quantity of Yang family silk and transport it to Chang’an as leverage to acquire the Yang family business. Cheng Fengze found the condition excessive but agreed, provided Zhao Xiuyuan handed over the Zhao family’s exclusive silk designs. Zhao Xiuyuan began to suspect Cheng Fengze’s true identity, guessing that he intended to dominate Yizhou’s silk industry entirely. Yang Jinglan accompanied Ji Yingying to inspect the shop.

Shopkeeper Sun earnestly introduced the store, and Ji Yingying noticed the outdated silk designs. At that moment, Yang family weaver Liu Bo came to buy silk for his daughter’s wedding dress. Liu Bo tearfully explained that no one was willing to sell to him. Yang Jinglan gave him money and asked Shopkeeper Sun to help Liu Bo select quality silk.

This sparked a new idea for Ji Yingying—to use the outdated silk to create unique accessories that ordinary people could afford. The two went to Sanhua Tower for a meal. Yang Jinglan pretended to still be injured, hoping Ji Yingying would feed him, but Ji Yingying saw through his ploy. Yu Linglong brought fine wine and teased the pair about their affection for each other. Yang Jinglan wanted to have a drink, but Ji Yingying’s disapproving look stopped him.

Ji Yingying decided to acquire more leftover silk and planned to persuade Yang Jingshan and Yang Jinglin to sell it to her. Cheng Fengze quickly procured Sichuan silk, and Zhao Xiuyuan realized his wealth rivaled that of nations. Cheng Fengze gave him a jade pendant as a token to ensure someone would receive him in Chang’an. Zhao Xiuyuan handed over some of the Zhao family’s highly confidential design sketches, promising to give the rest after completing the mission in Chang’an.

He suspected Cheng Fengze had already bribed Yang Erye. Once Zhao Xiuyuan left, Cheng Fengze ordered his subordinates to steal the remaining Zhao family designs. One subordinate hesitated and suggested abandoning the plan, fearing discovery by Yang Jinglan. Ji Yingying shared her idea with Grandmother Yang, who acknowledged its risks but supported her. Yang Jinglan, concerned about Ji Yingying, offered to help her with embroidery. Yang Juxian deliberately passed by and entered to take a look.

Ji Yingying warmly welcomed him. Yang Juxian wanted to contribute and reassured Ji Yingying not to be afraid, as he, as the family head, had a say in matters. However, his words revealed his impatience to understand Yang Jinglan better, feeling unappreciated by him. Ji Yingying stepped in to ease the tension between them. Ji Yingying tried selling her products at the market, and Cheng Fengze showed up, buying one of her handmade pieces.

As more customers arrived, Yang Erye appeared with his men to cause trouble. He accused Ji Yingying of breaking family rules and insisted on taking her accessories. Ji Yingying cleverly responded, leaving Yang Erye speechless and unable to argue back.

Yang Jinglan instructed Zhuge Hong to investigate the foreign merchants. Zhuge Hong produced a portrait and confirmed that Cheng Fengze was the White King of Nanzhao. Seeing that Yang Jinglan had recovered, Zhuge Hong was happy for him and noticed that the Sichuan red bridal robe had also been retrieved. Yang Jinglan asked him to deliver a message to the Crown Prince, informing him of Cheng Fengze’s secret collusion with General Niu to smuggle tribute silk.

Zhuge Hong, however, believed the court would not want to provoke Nanzhao. Yang Jinglan reminded him to ensure the bridal robe was returned promptly after inspection, as it belonged to Ji Yingying. Yang Erye accused Ji Yingying in front of Grandmother Yang, claiming she had misused Sichuan silk and that poor people should not wear it. Ji Yingying retorted that nobles should not be so narrow-minded.

The Yang family elders also criticized Ji Yingying, demanding that Grandmother Yang handle the matter fairly. Wishing to avoid further conflict, Grandmother Yang punished Ji Yingying by ordering her to copy the family rules and forbidding her from selling leftover silk accessories. Temporarily appeased, Yang Erye and the others left. Later, Grandmother Yang apologized to Ji Yingying, admitting she had misspoken but explained that, as the family matriarch, she could not defy the family rules.

Ji Yingying hesitated but said nothing. Ji Yingying went to Sanhua Tower to vent her frustrations with her friends. She could not swallow the injustice she had suffered. Yu Linglong advised her to either endure it or leave, but Ji Yingying insisted on continuing to sell leftover silk accessories as a rebuttal to the Yang family elders' narrow-mindedness. Zhu Xiaoniang supported her and suggested involving the Feihua Guild in the business of selling leftover silk.

Cheng Fengze overheard their conversation, prompting Yu Linglong to express her annoyance at his uninvited presence. Cheng Fengze proposed collaborating with Ji Yingying and suggested selling her products in the foreign market. After considering it, Ji Yingying agreed. The Feihua Guild then boldly began selling accessories made from leftover silk on the streets. A passerby wearing Sichuan silk clothing expressed dissatisfaction, accusing the guild of devaluing Sichuan silk by making it accessible to the poor and tarnishing the noble image.

Sang Shisi stood up and delivered a persuasive speech, arguing that Sichuan silk should bring joy to all people. Inspired by his words, other merchants bought a few accessories to support the business. From a distance, Cheng Fengze and Ji Yingying observed the scene. Ji Yingying deliberately tried to get information from him, asking about Nanzhao’s customs of inheritance and joking that she needed leverage to ensure a smooth business partnership.

Cheng Fengze smiled and replied that his only weakness was his refusal to eat overly filling food. Ji Yingying accused him of being insincere and asked him to share more about Nanzhao’s silk industry. Meanwhile, Yang Jinglan, who was watching nearby, grew jealous. Zhuge Hong created an opportunity for him by pretending to lose a horse, allowing them to investigate Cheng Fengze’s residence.

Cheng Fengze claimed to be busy discussing business, but Yang Jinglan intentionally aroused Cheng Fengze’s suspicion to buy more time for the operations in Chang’an. Ji Yingying gave Yang Jinglan an opportunity to investigate by pretending to argue with Cheng Fengze and leaving in a huff. Cheng Fengze instructed his subordinates to cooperate with Yang Jinglan’s investigation and not to act rashly.

He planned to help Ji Yingying grow her business further, hoping to deepen the conflict between her and the Yang family. Meanwhile, Liu Bo intended to retire and return to his hometown, but Ji Yingying discovered that Yang Erye had coerced him into this decision. When Yang Erye punished the maid Jinxiu, Ji Yingying fiercely stood up for her, forcing Yang Erye to leave in anger.

Back home, Ji Yingying vented her frustrations about the Yang family’s oppressive rules to Ji Xu’s wife, who realized Ji Yingying had a new idea. Upon hearing about this, Yang Jinglan rushed to Ji’s residence, concerned about Ji Yingying. He planned to start auditing the Yang family’s accounts to uncover any leverage against Yang Erye, but Ji Yingying firmly stated that she would not give up.

Ji Yaoting made special arrangements that touched Yu Linglong, but she believed his gestures were only temporary. Ji Yaoting did not make any promises, instead vowing to prove himself through actions, even if Yu Linglong drew her sword to warn him to stay away. After he left, Yu Linglong accepted the embroidered pouch he had given her and sat on the swing alone, smiling.

Ji Yingying gathered everyone to discuss how to establish regulations for the silk industry, encouraging everyone to share their thoughts. Yu Shu remarked that rules were made by those who paid the money. Ji Yingying stated that they must align with fairness and reason, earning the agreement of Yu Shu and others. Ji Yingying later invited Grandmother Yang to a meal, admitting that she still lacked the confidence to return to the Yang family. She expressed lingering concerns about the leftover silk business and proposed new ideas to address the issue.

Ji Yingying believed that Grandmother Yang understood reason and had intentionally arranged for her to take action, as it was necessary to break through the decay in the Yang family. Grandmother Yang was indeed worried about this matter. She knew Ji Yingying was intelligent and hoped she could revitalize the Yang family. Meanwhile, the Yang family elders invited Yang Jinglan to Sanhua Tower, intending to dissuade him from auditing the family accounts.

However, Yang Jinglan feigned ignorance, which angered Yang Erye, who invoked the family rules and called for his punishment. Yang Jinglan used the excuse that the Crown Prince had requested to purchase Sichuan silk and claimed he was merely following orders. Upon hearing this, the elders, including Fifth Uncle, sided with Yang Jinglan and agreed to revise the family rules, leaving Yang Erye with no grounds for objection.

When Grandmother Yang heard about this, she expressed uncertainty about whether the new rules would be better than the old ones. Ji Yingying persuaded her, explaining that her intention was not to reform the Yang family’s rules but to address the unreasonable practices within the silk industry. She shared that she had already discussed the matter with the Feihua Guild and temporarily implemented the new rules.

Pleased with Ji Yingying’s approach, Grandmother Yang regarded her as a business partner and cheerfully suggested having a few drinks to celebrate. Ji Yaoting posted the new regulations at the family gate, announcing that the Ji family’s silk workshop was open to hiring workers. However, several days passed without anyone applying. Ji Yingying realized that the merchants were waiting to see if there were any benefits. She understood that businessmen were ultimately driven by profit.

Meanwhile, Zhao Xiuyuan visited Niu Wuniang, seeking her insights about merchants in Chang’an. Niu Wuniang guessed that he was planning to expand his business to Chang’an and agreed to help, on the condition that he promised to let go of Yuyuan. Ji Yingying, hoping to ease the strained relationship between Yang Jinglan and his father, told him about Yang Juxian’s actions to alleviate his burden. She reassured him of her unwavering support.

Yang Jinglan stood up, carried her directly to the bed, and said he had serious matters to attend to right now. The next day, Yang Jinglan took Ji Yingying to the mountains to visit Treading Snow. Ji Yingying brought Treading Snow its favorite leaves, thanking the horse for escorting Yang Jinglan back to rescue her. Yang Jinglan showed her a map he had drawn, marking the places he and Treading Snow had traveled across the north and south.

Inspired, Ji Yingying expressed her desire to bring Sichuan silk to all corners of the land and achieve her dream. Niu Wuniang invited the women of Chang’an, capitalizing on their concern for appearances, to promote the Zhao family’s silk. Madam Zheng had initially intended to boast about the Yang family silk her husband had gifted her. However, she noticed that a dancing girl was wearing the same design, which left her displeased.

Niu Wuniang added fuel to the fire, disparaging the Yang family’s silk as overly common while praising the Zhao family’s silk as exclusive to nobles. Madam Zheng and the other women, influenced by her words, also began favoring Zhao silk. Niu Wuniang instructed Zhao Xiuyuan to send gifts to Madam Zheng. She believed that as long as Madam Zheng accepted the gifts, the deal would be sealed, and the glory days of Yang family silk would be over.

Later, Zhao Xiuyuan dismissed the maids, and Niu Wuniang confided in him about her abusive ex-husband, recounting her difficult past. She shared that the only warmth she had felt was from Yuyuan and expressed her desire to leave the entanglements behind, asking Zhao Xiuyuan to return Yuyuan to her. Upon their return, Yang Jinglan and Ji Yingying sought to resolve the Yang family’s troubles.

In front of everyone, Yang Erye demanded the enforcement of family law against Ji Yingying, blaming her for offending Zhao Xiuyuan and causing Yang family silk to face difficulties in Chang’an. Yang Jinglan defended Ji Yingying, which displeased Yang Erye. Out of spite, Yang Erye threatened to remove Yang Jinglan’s mother’s memorial tablet from the ancestral hall. This enraged Yang Jinglan, and Yang Erye stirred up the crowd, suggesting a change in family leadership.

Ji Yingying, thinking quickly, promised to sell the unsold Sichuan silk, forcing Yang Erye to back down temporarily. Afterward, Ji Yingying proposed opening trade routes to expand the market for Sichuan silk. Yang Juxian opposed the idea, considering it too risky. Ji Yingying assured him that she had a plan and organized everyone to divide responsibilities for the project. This initiative also helped improve the relationship between Yang Jinglan and his father, Yang Juxian.

However, when Yu Linglong learned of Ji Yingying’s intention to open the trade route, she firmly opposed it, warning that the route Ji Yingying mentioned was extremely dangerous.

Ji Yingying shared her idea to open a new trade route. Yu Linglong firmly opposed it, revealing that the route led to the Death Valley. She recounted how her father once led a caravan through there, but they never returned. She warned Ji Yingying of the grave dangers, saying that once someone chose the path of life or death, there would be no turning back. Cheng Fengze then brought out a map, proposing to accompany Ji Yingying.

Ji Yingying suspected he had ulterior motives. Cheng Fengze deliberately stated he only sought fame and fortune, complimenting Ji Yingying for constantly surprising him. Noticing the map was incomplete, Ji Yingying became even more suspicious of his intentions. When Yang Jinglan learned about this, he reassured Ji Yingying that she didn’t need to worry as he had already prepared a backup plan.

Ji Yingying believed Cheng Fengze was a dangerous person, but Yang Jinglan saw it as an opportunity to gather evidence of Cheng Fengze’s collusion. He hoped Ji Yingying would cooperate and act with him. Although Ji Yingying thought the plan was risky, Yang Jinglan gave her a string of beads to ease her worries. Ji Yingying then suggested learning martial arts for self-defense. Yang Jinglan teased her and simply lifted her off her feet.

The Feihua Guild, upon hearing that Ji Yingying planned to leave, became concerned for her safety and insisted on going with her under the pretense of broadening their horizons. They played a game of rock-paper-scissors and selected Sang Shisi and others to accompany her. Sheng Dalang had already prepared bottles of medicine for the journey. Zhu Xiaoniang brought peace charms, praying for their safe return.

Everyone in the guild expressed their support for Ji Yingying, promising to help her no matter what. They assured her there would always be a place for her in Feihua Guild. Touched by their loyalty, Ji Yingying agreed to travel alongside them. Zhao Xiuyuan learned that Yang Jinglan and his father had come to Chang’an. Niu Wuniang, sensing his unease, offered to approach Madam Zheng for more information.

Soon, Zhao Ping delivered news that Ji Yingying was planning to open a new trade route. Zhao Xiuyuan, hearing that Cheng Fengze would also be going, ignored the business deals in Chang’an, hastily packing to return to Yizhou. Yu Linglong reflected on her first meeting with Ji Yingying and admired her for successfully running a business as a woman, which had brought them together as friends.

Determined to accompany Ji Yingying on her journey, she decided to close her shop, stating that it was hard to find a true confidant. Before their departure, Yang Jinglan set rules for the caravan, outlining three strict requirements. He warned that disobedience would lead to severe punishment. Cheng Fengze realized that these rules were aimed at him.

On the journey, the caravan endured harsh challenges, including natural disasters, snowstorms, and treacherous mountains, but they supported and encouraged each other along the way. Back in Yizhou, Zhao Xiuyuan discovered that Ji Yingying had already departed three days earlier. He fretted over Yuyuan but believed Ji Yingying would find a solution. Meanwhile, Ning Dai arranged for job notices to be posted around town, claiming that high wages were being offered in Mianzhu.

Zhao Xiuyuan noticed these tactics and found them oddly familiar. Chihuo, who had been gathering information, reported that Yang Jinglan’s shadow guards were nowhere to be seen. Cheng Fengze ordered his men in Yizhou not to act rashly. At the same time, Yang Erye was brought, bound, to the Zhao residence. Cheng Fengze sent a message to Zhao Xiuyuan, asking for his help in making him the head of the Yang family.

He revealed Zhao family secrets, claiming that the Yang family was now in dire straits and that this was the perfect time to act. Yang family craftsmen began resigning one after another, taking up jobs at the Zhao family silk workshop. Zhao Xiuyuan offered the craftsmen high wages to dissuade them from going to Mianzhu. Meanwhile, Ning Dai used high wages to poach some of Yizhou’s craftsmen and had her men abduct key workers.

When Ning Dai received a letter, she panicked and quickly sent a message to Cheng Fengze. The caravan eventually arrived at Death Valley and, after some consideration, decided to camp there for the night. Yu Linglong thought of her father, and Ji Yaoting comforted her. The next day, while passing through a forest, the caravan was ambushed by bandits, leading to a fierce battle. Sang Shisi and Sheng Dalang tried to escape but fell into a swamp.

During the fight, Yu Linglong was surrounded by bandits. Ji Yaoting rushed to save her, but both of them ended up trapped and hung up by a net. After the bandits were defeated, Sang Shisi returned, seeking help. Ji Yingying hurried to the swamp, only to find that Sheng Dalang had disappeared, leaving only his medicine box behind. Sang Shisi, overcome with guilt, believed he had caused Sheng Dalang’s death.

Ji Yingying told Sang Shisi to calm down and slapped him to bring him to his senses. Yang Jinglan felt distressed for Ji Yingying, and she couldn’t hold back her tears, crying in his arms, unwilling to accept Sheng Dalang’s death. She had thought everything was under control, but Sheng Dalang’s sudden passing caught her off guard. She began to doubt her decisions, not wanting to see more innocent lives lost.

Yang Jinglan comforted her, saying she shouldn’t retreat but must remain strong to lead everyone through this trade route. When Ji Yingying regained her composure, she realized that Yu Linglong and Ji Yaoting were missing. The bandits had captured Yu Linglong and Ji Yaoting, tying them up. Some of the bandits wanted to kill them immediately, but the bandit chief said he was more interested in gaining wealth.

Ji Yaoting mentioned that the caravan carried Yang family silk to distract the bandits. Upon learning that rescuers were approaching, the bandit chief ordered some of his men to guard the captives while he led others to steal the Yang family silk. Yang Jinglan noticed tracks on the ground and suspected it was a deliberate ploy by the bandits. Meanwhile, the regional governor invited General Niu for a meal, reminding him not to be greedy or else face consequences.

General Niu understood the implicit warning. He realized the governor was suspicious of his cooperation with Cheng Fengze and feared that if the matter was exposed, the governor wouldn’t let it slide. Reflecting on their history, General Niu remembered that he owed his current success to the governor’s past support. Ji Yingying instructed her people to prepare traps intentionally, knowing that Cheng Fengze didn’t just bring Chihu along. She wanted to take a risk and test him.

Cheng Fengze asked why she was setting traps, already guessing that Ji Yingying had planned ahead. Meanwhile, Zhao Xiuyuan knelt and prayed, expressing his willingness to shorten his life in exchange for Ji Yingying’s safe return. The bandits attempted to lure Yang Jinglan and his group away, but Yang Jinglan saw through their plan and launched a surprise attack, successfully rescuing Yu Linglong and Ji Yaoting. Ji Yingying and her group reached a cave entrance.

She ordered traps to be set around the carriages to prevent the bandits from acting rashly. The bandits, following them, sent two men ahead to scout and fell into the traps. Seeing this, the bandits assumed the area around the carriages was full of traps and decided to flank from the side. Ji Yingying asked Sang Shisi for help, and after giving instructions, she deliberately walked out of the cave to attract the bandits’ attention.

Chihu and his men were lying in ambush nearby, aiming their arrows at the bandits. When Cheng Fengze saw Ji Yingying leaving the cave, he hurried to follow her. The bandit leader ordered his men to release arrows, and Ji Yingying pulled Cheng Fengze with her, jumping into a trap. Chihu, worried for Cheng Fengze’s safety, ordered his men to fire arrows at the bandits, eliminating them all.

Ji Yingying accused Cheng Fengze of not being honest with her, and Cheng Fengze couldn’t meet her gaze. After climbing out of the trap, Ji Yingying gathered everyone, thanking them for risking their lives to help, as a way to honor their fallen companions. The group rested there, planning to continue their journey the next day. Ji Yingying noticed that Sang Shisi looked downcast, so Yang Jinglan volunteered to check on him.

Sang Shisi blamed himself, believing he was useless and that Sheng Dalang had died saving him. Yang Jinglan encouraged him to face everything with strength, saying that once a choice was made, it shouldn’t be easily abandoned. After their brush with death, Yu Linglong began to believe in love again. Cheng Fengze instructed Chihu to release fireworks as a signal for the Bai Manor people to come and fetch him.

Ji Yingying, unable to sleep, was kept company by Cheng Fengze, who told her a story that was, in fact, about himself. Yang Jinglan later approached Ji Yingying, subtly hinting that Cheng Fengze needed to be truthful with her. Cheng Fengze recalled Ji Yingying’s promise, which he had personally rejected in the past. General Niu learned that Yang Jinglan had gone to Bai Manor to make arrests, suspecting this was a decision from Chang’an.

Cheng Fengze decided not to continue traveling with them, saying he planned to return to Nanzhao. Yang Jinglan mentioned that a letter from Yizhou had arrived, revealing that the foreign merchants had confessed and that Cheng Fengze would be taken back for questioning. Just then, people from the Bai Manor arrived. Cheng Fengze no longer concealed his identity and admitted that his actions were not deliberate.

Yang Jinglan, holding an imperial decree from Chang’an, invited Cheng Fengze to meet the emperor in Chang’an. Cheng Fengze refused, but Ji Yingying pulled him aside to discuss business. Yang Jinglan deliberately objected, but Ji Yingying hoped Cheng Fengze would testify against General Niu, in which case she would agree to go with him to Nanzhao. Cheng Fengze proposed that Yang Jinglan mediate in Chang’an, using the caravan members as leverage. He admitted to smuggling tribute silk with General Niu.

This was exactly what Yang Jinglan had been waiting for, as he had already arranged for Chang’an officials to be present.

General Niu sought to win over Chen Xiong and Li Xiong, falsely claiming that Yang Jinglan had framed him and that he might be disloyal to the regional governor. He asked whether the two would be willing to follow him. Chen Xiong criticized him for betraying the regional governor, but to his surprise, General Niu ordered his men to kill Chen Xiong on the spot. Witnessing this, Li Xiong had no choice but to submit temporarily.

General Niu promised that once he became the new regional governor, he would promote Li Xiong as Vice Commander. Ji Yingying and her group finally arrived in Tubo, successfully opening up the trade route. The Tubo market showed great interest in Shu brocade. Yang Jinglan discovered that Cheng Fengze had escaped and pursued him alone, urging Cheng Fengze to return with him.

Cheng Fengze stalled for time and deliberately handed General Niu’s waist token to Yang Jinglan, suggesting they could work together to eliminate General Niu. Yang Jinglan, understanding Cheng Fengze’s plan to use him as a tool, stated he would not confuse right with wrong. Cheng Fengze provoked him, saying he intended to take Ji Yingying back to Nanzhao.

Enraged, Yang Jinglan drew his sword and pointed it at Cheng Fengze, who then deliberately pushed his chest into the blade, getting himself injured. Chihu arrived with reinforcements, and everyone saw Cheng Fengze wounded. Cheng Fengze exaggerated the situation, accusing Yang Jinglan of attempting to assassinate him. He claimed he could not go to Chang’an, blaming Chang’an officials for negligence and instructing the Six Departments to deliver a message to Chang’an that Nanzhao would avenge this grievance.

The Six Departments, unable to explain the situation, allowed Cheng Fengze to leave and planned instead to capture Yang Jinglan to present to the emperor. Fortunately, Gao Fang and others helped Yang Jinglan escape successfully. Under pressure, the Six Departments issued a wanted notice, and everyone believed Yang Jinglan was a murderer. Yang Jinglan decided to turn the situation to his advantage by seeking help from the regional governor, Mu Hui, believing he would not tolerate General Niu’s behavior.

Gao Fang mocked the Six Departments for their incompetence and planned to infiltrate the system to present the Tubo merchants’ confessions to Mu Hui. Yang Jinglan, worried that Ji Yingying might be implicated, deliberately wrote a divorce letter and asked Gao Fang to deliver it to Ji Yingying. Before parting ways, Yang Jinglan promised to marry Ji Yingying in grand style once everything was resolved. Ji Yingying wished him safety in return.

Zhao Xiuyuan appeared disheveled and struggled to explain what had happened to Yuyuan. Niu Wuniang prayed devoutly and learned that Yuyuan had been sold as a servant and later killed. Overcome with grief, she was devastated. Zhao Xiuyuan apologized to Niu Wuniang, feeling deeply responsible for what had happened. Niu Wuniang, sobbing uncontrollably, seemed to see Yuyuan’s shadow, unable to accept her death. She believed that Yuyuan was a part of her own being.

Yang Erye gathered the family elders, slandering Ji Yingying as incompetent and suggesting that the Yang family accept the Zhao family’s orders to ease the situation. Yang Jingshan firmly opposed this, but Yang Erye took charge, insisting that accepting the Zhao family’s orders was the only way forward for the Yang family. Just then, Jinxiu arrived with news that Ji Yingying had returned. Everyone rushed to the entrance to see her.

Ji Yingying presented the remaining profits to the Yang family elders, announcing that she had successfully opened a new trade route and sold Yang family brocade to Tubo. Yang Erye panicked and accused Ji Yingying of overstepping her authority. He called for the county office to investigate her, claiming she was related to someone on the wanted list. However, Ji Yingying had anticipated this and presented the forged divorce letter, using her unique status to prevent her arrest.

When Yang Erye refused to return the Zhao family order, Ji Yingying threatened him, saying that all orders bore her signature and that she could collaborate with other families instead. Worried about losing business, the Yang family elders agreed to let Ji Yingying take charge. Yang Erye complained to Zhao Xiuyuan, but Zhao Xiuyuan excused himself, saying he couldn’t interfere in family matters.

Ji Yingying found that Yang Shi had fallen unconscious and, upon discovering she had been poisoned, suspected Yang Erye was behind it. She instructed Ji Yaoting to keep an eye on Yang Erye while asking Yang Jingshan to take care of the family for now. Zhuge Hong presented the real divorce letter to Ji Yingying, confirming its authenticity. Realizing that Yang Jinglan’s life was uncertain, Ji Yingying quietly resolved to wait for him.

Ji Yingying gathered the family elders under the pretense of distributing orders and announced that Yang Shi had recovered. Yang Erye did not believe this and nearly exposed himself in front of everyone. Afterward, he approached Zhao Xiuyuan for help, unsure of how to resolve the situation. Ji Yingying and her group burst into the room, overhearing Yang Erye’s conversation. She accused Yang Erye of poisoning Yang Shi and declared that he would face family punishment.

Yang Erye knelt and begged for mercy, admitting that he had been instructed by Cheng Fengze. Ji Yingying condemned him for his despicable actions. Learning that Cheng Fengze had taken ledgers from multiple families, she realized that the situation was far more dangerous than she had imagined.

Ji Yingying accused Zhao Xiuyuan, believing he should not have given the design ledgers to Cheng Fengze. Zhao Xiuyuan explained that he had someone he wanted to protect. Yang Erye revealed the antidote’s location, but Ji Yingying did not spare him. After punishing him according to family law, she sent him to the authorities. Zhao Ping discovered that evidence against Cheng Fengze had disappeared and informed Zhao Xiuyuan, hoping he would ask General Niu for more information.

Zhao Xiuyuan realized that General Niu was intentionally withholding information to prevent his involvement and reminded Zhao Ping to protect the remaining design ledgers and weavers. Niu Wuniang went on a hunger strike, insisting on meeting Zhao Xiuyuan and expressing her desire to return home for her mother’s birthday. She feigned madness to garner sympathy. Zhao Xiuyuan, feeling sorry for her, agreed to accompany her back to the Niu family.

However, Niu Wuniang was plotting revenge for Yuyuan and planned to make Zhao Xiuyuan pay. After drinking the antidote, Yang Shi regained consciousness. She convened a meeting with the family elders and revealed that Yang Erye had colluded with them for personal gain. On Ji Yingying’s advice, she decided not to pursue the matter. Ji Yingying suggested that instead of assigning blame, they should reform the family’s operations to address the root cause of the problem.

The family elders agreed, and Yang Shi appointed Ji Yingying as the Yang family’s business leader. She tasked Ji Yingying with assisting Yang Jingshan in implementing reforms and restoring the family’s reputation. Ji Yingying accepted the family’s business seal, and the elders pledged their trust in her. On her mother’s birthday, Niu Wuniang deliberately lured Zhao Xiuyuan into a room. She expressed her regrets and grievances, sitting by the window.

She revealed that she had chosen Zhao Xiuyuan because he was someone Ji Yingying valued. She lamented that, like Ji Yingying, she wanted to accomplish something but lacked support. Zhao Xiuyuan shook his head, telling her that she was different from Ji Yingying and praising Ji Yingying for her sincerity. Hearing this, Niu Wuniang laughed bitterly and suddenly drew a dagger, accusing Zhao Xiuyuan and Ji Yingying of tarnishing her reputation.

Zhao Xiuyuan tried to calm her, but Niu Wuniang suddenly stabbed herself in the chest and fell from the window, attempting to drag Zhao Xiuyuan down with her. Niu Wuniang’s death caused a stir, with many accusing Zhao Xiuyuan of killing her out of love. The authorities arrested him and tied him up. When General Niu learned of Niu Wuniang’s death, he criticized her for foolishly sacrificing herself in such a scheme.

Although he knew Zhao Xiuyuan was innocent, he refused to let him go, intending to kill all the Zhao family members to avenge Niu Wuniang. When Ji Yingying learned of this, she could not understand why Niu Wuniang was so stubborn. Yang Shi advised Ji Yingying not to overthink it and revealed that she was already working on clearing Yang Jinglan’s name. Grateful, Ji Yingying proposed going to Mianzhou herself to investigate the situation with the weavers.

However, Yang Shi, concerned for her safety, instructed Yang Jingshan to go instead while asking Ji Yingying to stay at the residence. Yang Jinglan sent a letter asking Ji Yingying to meet him on the mountain. Ji Yingying arranged for the Feihua Society to distract the soldiers monitoring her, creating a diversion. Yang Jinglan stared at the sword tassel in a daze while waiting for her to appear.

After seeing the message carved into the stone, Ji Yingying cut off a strand of her hair, silently vowing to wait for Yang Jinglan’s return. Watching from a distance, Yang Jinglan refrained from approaching, worried that Ji Yingying might get hurt. General Niu was furious when he learned of Yang Jinglan’s escape and ordered his capture. Zhuge Hong presented testimony to Mu Hui, urging him to bring General Niu to justice.

After a moment’s hesitation, Mu Hui decided to lead his troops to Yizhou for an investigation. Ji Yingying saw Zhao Xiuyuan disheveled and shackled. She hoped the Zhao family could set aside their grudges and work together against Cheng Fengze, inviting them to discuss the silk trade. Meanwhile, Ning Dai abducted all the weavers in Yizhou and took them to Nanzhao, while Cheng Fengze stayed in General Niu’s camp to recover from his injuries.

During the meeting, the Zhao family did not attend, so Ji Yingying shared her ideas first. She proposed that each silk household protect their weavers to overcome the crisis. However, the business leaders expressed concerns about increased labor costs. Ji Yingying emphasized that the weavers were the foundation of Shu brocade and urged them to think beyond short-term interests. Old Master Zhao arrived and expressed his support for Ji Yingying’s plan, encouraging everyone to follow her lead.

Meanwhile, General Xue brought Yang Jinglan back to the regional governor’s camp, while Zhuge Hong stayed at the Jinguan Mansion. Cheng Fengze fabricated a story, persuading General Niu to pretend to resist a Nanzhao invasion as a way to provide an explanation to Chang’an.

General Niu decided to take advantage of Cheng Fengze's proposal and secretly planned to seize power. Cheng Fengze suggested that General Niu rely on his own resources while Cheng Fengze’s soldiers disguised as Nanzhao troops would attack the city. He proposed an exchange deal and warned General Niu to avoid escalating the matter, as he didn’t want Tang and Nanzhao to become enemies. General Niu pretended to agree.

Yang Jinglan and Gao Fang were brought back to the military camp, hoping to meet Mu Hui to discuss strategies. General Xue claimed Mu Hui was too busy to see Yang Jinglan for the time being. Yang Jinglan urged Mu Hui to act quickly, expressing concerns about General Niu’s ambitions and the potential catastrophe if he allied with Cheng Fengze.

General Xue told Yang Jinglan to wait but, unwilling to delay, Yang Jinglan decided to return to Yizhou, leaving Gao Fang as collateral. Cheng Fengze captured the entire Zhao family, tying up Old Master Zhao and Zhao Xiuyuan in the courtyard. Old Master Zhao urged Zhao Xiuyuan to stay alive, but Zhao Xiuyuan questioned the meaning of survival.

Chihu took Old Master Zhao away as Cheng Fengze appeared, stating that while Zhao Xiuyuan cared about his family, Cheng Fengze only needed him. The others were left to General Niu. Cheng Fengze then told Zhao Xiuyuan to go to Nanzhao to meet Ji Yingying, declaring that he intended to take her to Nanzhao. From Zhuge Hong, Ji Yingying learned that Yang Jinglan was safe, giving her peace of mind.

Zhuge Hong discovered the Zhao family’s disappearance, leading Ji Yingying to suspect Cheng Fengze. Realizing the city was no longer safe, she instructed Zhuge Hong to seek help from Inspector Zhang. Meanwhile, General Niu prepared to attack the city, ensuring his soldiers were well-fed and ready. When Inspector Zhang learned of the Zhao family’s disappearance, he deemed it a serious matter and planned to inform Mu Hui immediately.

However, on the way, he was ambushed and killed by disguised Nanzhao soldiers. Zhuge Hong witnessed the incident, realizing the situation was worsening. Ning Dai surrounded all the major dye houses associated with the Feihua Society, capturing everyone skilled in dyeing. Sang Shisi disguised himself as Sheng Dalang to protect Zhu Xiaoniang from being taken away. Ji Yaoting, not among those captured, was tasked by Ning Dai to deliver a message to Ji Yingying.

Upon hearing of this, Ji Yingying insisted on rescuing everyone, but Ji Xushi tried to dissuade her. Cheng Fengze sent a carriage to pick her up from outside, and Ji Yingying knew that if she didn’t comply, all the craftsmen would suffer. After bidding farewell to Ji Xushi, Ji Yingying decided she must meet Cheng Fengze. Ji Yaoting volunteered to accompany her for mutual support. Knowing the journey ahead was fraught with danger, Ji Xushi was heartbroken.

Before boarding the carriage, Ji Yingying discussed strategies with Zhuge Hong, instructing him and Official Sang to protect Yizhou. Determined not to yield to Cheng Fengze, she chose a specific location and sent a message for him to meet her in the city. After Ji Yaoting was sent away, Cheng Fengze accused Ji Yingying of hiding the other craftsmen. He demanded that she and the craftsmen go to Nanzhao to work.

Ji Yingying countered by asking him to release three groups of people and pay an advance. Feeling that Ji Yingying lacked sincerity, Cheng Fengze fired a signal flare, prompting Nanzhao soldiers to massacre civilians in the city. Chihu noticed the turmoil outside and hurried back to the courtyard. Cheng Fengze, suspecting General Niu of rebellion, quickly left with Ji Yingying. General Niu led his troops to seize Yizhou, having already killed Mu Hui.

Using the excuse of an assassination by Nanzhao soldiers, he wiped out all his own men who had been disguised as Nanzhao troops. Yang Jinglan, upon hearing that Ji Yingying had been taken away, rushed to pursue them, but the bridge leading to Nanzhao was cut off by Cheng Fengze. Ji Yingying turned back and called out Yang Jinglan’s name, holding back tears.

She vowed to marry him in the name of heaven and earth, performing a makeshift wedding ritual with him from afar. Yang Jinglan understood her intention and silently completed the ritual with her. General Niu assumed temporary command of the military, killing dissenting officers to consolidate his position. The remaining soldiers, too afraid to resist, submitted to his control over the Jianan Circuit troops.

General Xue informed Yang Jinglan that Mu Hui’s army had been ambushed and completely annihilated, revealing it was all part of General Niu’s scheme. General Xue planned to go to Chang’an to report to the emperor, while Yang Jinglan, worried for Ji Yingying’s safety, prepared to head to Nanzhao alone. Zhuge Hong chose to stay behind to protect Yizhou.

Cheng Fengze deliberately slowed the carriage, wanting Ji Yingying to admire the scenery of Nanzhao. He mentioned the story of Princess Wang Zhaojun and said he never believed in deals that couldn’t be struck. Ji Yingying, worried about Zhu Xiaoniang and the others, was reassured by Cheng Fengze that they had already arrived in Nanzhao, promising she would get to meet them.

While resting at the posthouse, Cheng Fengze instructed Chihu to prepare a royal consort's gown and used the craftsmen’s lives to coerce Ji Yingying into wearing it. Ji Yingying prayed to Lady Leizu, hoping she would protect her family and friends. Although deeply unwilling, she donned the royal consort’s gown for the sake of her loved ones. When she stepped out, Cheng Fengze was captivated by her beauty, imagining her as his consort. Ji Yingying, however, was expressionless and indifferent.

Cheng Fengze invited her to dine with him, but she deliberately ate messily, staining her clothes. Cheng Fengze didn’t scold her. When Ji Yingying realized the food had been drugged, her body weakened, and her mind became clouded. Cheng Fengze carried her back to her room. When Ji Yingying woke up, she saw Cheng Fengze sitting by the bed.

Fearing she had been violated, Cheng Fengze, sensing her fear, reassured her he wouldn’t do anything dishonorable in secret, emphasizing that he would pursue her openly and righteously. The carriage arrived at the royal residence, where Ning Dai and others congratulated Cheng Fengze on his return. Cheng Fengze reminded them to lower their voices to avoid disturbing the consort.

The maids whispered among themselves, curious about the "divine maiden" Cheng Fengze brought from Yizhou and puzzled about her sudden elevation to royal consort. Chihu warned them not to gossip, while Ning Dai speculated that Cheng Fengze’s actions were superficial—if the Nanzhao King desired Ji Yingying, her marital status wouldn’t matter. Cheng Fengze specially prepared flowers for her, but Ji Yingying showed no interest. In frustration, she bit her tongue hard, alarming Cheng Fengze, who thought she was attempting suicide.

He stopped her and threatened to kill the craftsmen if she tried anything drastic. Ji Yingying retorted that he wouldn’t give up the craftsmen, clarifying that she wasn’t trying to end her life but had her principles. She warned Cheng Fengze not to test her boundaries. Aware of his feelings for her, Ji Yingying likened his affection to fragile porcelain—not true love but selfish possession.

The Nanzhao King hosted a banquet, pretending to show concern over the rumors that Cheng Fengze had been ambushed. Cheng Fengze admitted his fault and shifted the blame onto General Niu, presenting a list of Yizhou craftsmen as a potential source of hope for Nanzhao. Du Yan deliberately stirred trouble, urging the Nanzhao King to pressure Cheng Fengze, demanding the craftsmen produce fifty bolts of brocade monthly.

Upon hearing of Cheng Fengze’s attachment to Ji Yingying and the rumors of her being a divine maiden who protected rulers, the Nanzhao King demanded Ji Yingying make a choice. Seeking to escape her predicament, Ji Yingying proposed a business deal with the Nanzhao King, promising to produce the brocade within a year. The Nanzhao King agreed and signed a formal agreement. Disappointed by Ji Yingying’s decision, Cheng Fengze took her to see the Yizhou craftsmen.

Meanwhile, Du Yan plotted against Cheng Fengze, determined to sabotage the brocade project. He killed two rebellious craftsmen in front of Ji Yingying, who condemned Cheng Fengze for standing by and doing nothing. Cheng Fengze gave Ji Yingying another choice: to publicly admit she was the consort of the Nanzhao King. To protect the craftsmen, Ji Yingying reluctantly agreed.

Cheng Fengze scolded her for being too reckless, reminding her that Nanzhao was not Yizhou and urging her to side with him. Du Yan then brandished a knife at the craftsmen, demanding they demonstrate their brocade-weaving skills. Chen Sanlang and others declared themselves dyers, which infuriated Du Yan, who threatened to kill them. Cheng Fengze intervened, while Ji Yingying endured the humiliation in silence. Zhao Xiuyuan proposed leaving Ji Yingying to lead discussions with the craftsmen about weaving brocade.

Cheng Fengze refused and forcibly took her away. He handed her a dagger, testing her resolve to kill him. Ji Yingying pointed the dagger at him and declared that if necessary, they would perish together.

Ji Yingying contemplated the weaving of brocade, feeling immense pressure from the coercion of the Nanzhao King and Cheng Fengze. Yang Jinglan sneaked into Nanzhao alone and found Ji Yingying's room. Ning Dai deliberately cooperated with him, claiming she didn’t want Ji Yingying to stay there. When Yang Jinglan entered and saw Ji Yingying resting with her eyes closed, his heart ached for her.

Ji Yingying thought she was dreaming, but upon realizing it was truly Yang Jinglan, she quickly embraced him, worried about his safety. Yang Jinglan held her hand, intending to take her away. However, Ji Yingying refused. She explained that she couldn't leave yet because she had promised the Nanzhao King to weave the brocade, fearing that her departure would lead to the craftsmen being persecuted.

Yang Jinglan urged her to prioritize her own safety first, assuring her that he would find a way to help the craftsmen escape afterward. Ji Yingying, aware of the Nanzhao King’s ambitions, didn’t dare take the risk. She insisted on staying to complete the brocade and was resolute in her determination to succeed. Yang Jinglan embraced her, feeling heartbroken, and promised to support her.

He vowed to first bring stability to Yizhou so that when the brocade was completed, they would have a home to return to. Yang Jinglan mistakenly believed Ning Dai was genuinely cooperating with him, knowing she liked Cheng Fengze and didn’t want another consort in the residence. When Ji Yingying woke up, Cheng Fengze came to disturb her, saying he wanted to discuss the brocade.

He brought ancient brocade manuscripts and explained that he had been preparing for three years, knowing that Nanzhao brocade’s failure stemmed from issues with materials and techniques. Ji Yingying discovered that the silk spun by Nanzhao’s wild silkworms lacked durability. Cheng Fengze took her to the Brocade Pavilion, where she found an exceptional brocade garment and learned that the artisan who dyed and wove it was no longer alive.

Cheng Fengze then brought Ji Yingying to the mountains to meet Mulan, a woman he had adopted. Ignoring the warning signs, the two entered the courtyard, where Ji Yingying saw wild silkworms being freely raised. Mulan scrutinized Ji Yingying and mocked Cheng Fengze for taking another man’s woman. Ji Yingying attempted to converse with Mulan, but Mulan ignored her.

While trying to engage with her, Ji Yingying accidentally ate a poisonous mushroom leaf but was fortunate to have Mulan’s antidote water. Meanwhile, Ning Dai reported to Cheng Fengze that there were rumors about him spreading in the city. Cheng Fengze instructed her to spread rumors of his relationship with Ji Yingying to solidify the narrative. Ning Dai expressed concern that Ji Yingying might become his weakness if their act turned real, but Cheng Fengze dismissed her worries.

Ji Yingying later drew a picture of the leaf and asked Cheng Fengze to give it to Mulan as a token of gratitude for saving her life. During this period, Ji Yingying cooperated with Cheng Fengze in researching Nanzhao brocade but proposed visiting the weaving camp to meet the craftsmen. Ning Dai prepared pastries for Cheng Fengze to celebrate his birthday. Cheng Fengze, however, wanted a gift from Ji Yingying.

She casually drew a peach for him and bluntly told him she would never accept him. Enraged, Cheng Fengze declared he would send her a gift in return. He deliberately had Ning Dai spread rumors and threatened Ji Yingying’s life to lure Yang Jinglan out. As expected, Yang Jinglan came after hearing the rumors. In his haste to find Ji Yingying, he was accidentally stabbed by Ning Dai and realized too late that he had been deceived.

Upon leaving the room, he was surrounded by assassins. Ning Dai revealed that the place had been sealed off, ensuring Yang Jinglan wouldn’t leave alive. Cheng Fengze appeared, pulling Ji Yingying along. He, aware of Du Yan’s alliance with Yang Jinglan, ordered Yang Jinglan to be killed. Ji Yingying intervened, but Cheng Fengze grew angrier and proposed a chess game with Ji Yingying to decide Yang Jinglan’s fate. Left with no choice, Ji Yingying watched as Yang Jinglan was wounded.

In desperation, she overturned the chessboard and furiously denounced Cheng Fengze’s despicable behavior. Cheng Fengze ordered the assassins to continue, prompting Ji Yingying to pull out a hairpin and threaten to kill herself, declaring she would die alongside Yang Jinglan. Cheng Fengze hesitated briefly before ordering everyone to stand down. He had both Yang Jinglan and Ji Yingying imprisoned in the weaving camp, forbidding them from ever seeing each other alive again.

Ji Yingying was assigned to the weaving camp, where Zhu Xiaoniang and others came to find her after learning about it. Chen Sanlang understood this was only a temporary measure and believed that Ji Yingying would find a way to take everyone out. Ji Yingying assured them she wouldn’t become a consort but expressed her desire to continue working on the Nanzhao brocade. Chen Sanlang couldn’t understand her motives and accused her of changing since coming to Nanzhao.

Jiang Laoliu was beaten by the head guard and his men. Hearing the commotion, Ji Yingying and others rushed over to intervene. She presented a document signed by the Nanzhao King and confronted the head guard publicly. The head guard, confident in the backing of Du Yan, arrogantly claimed that all the craftsmen were merely slaves. Ji Yingying remained composed and rebutted the head guard rationally.

The head guard attempted to sow discord between Ji Yingying and the craftsmen, making them believe she wanted to weave the Nanzhao brocade to become a consort. Chihu warned Ji Yingying, advising her not to provoke the head guard. From Zhu Xiaoniang, Ji Yingying learned that the head guard frequently humiliated and tormented the craftsmen, both openly and secretly. Zhu Xiaoniang had become accustomed to it.

Later, when Zhu Xiaoniang found her bedding soaked with water, she knew it was the head guard's doing. Sang Shisi quietly brought over some bedding. Ji Yingying, unwilling to see everyone suffer such humiliation, began planning a way to get rid of the head guard. Looking out at the moonlight, Zhu Xiaoniang thought about the approaching Mid-Autumn Festival. Ji Yingying noticed Zhu Xiaoniang’s feelings for Sang Shisi changing, realizing that the shared hardships had brought them closer.

Meanwhile, Yang Jinglan, imprisoned in a cell, became the target of Cheng Fengze’s schemes. Cheng Fengze sent Zhao Xiuyuan to probe him. Zhao Xiuyuan sought information about his family and learned that General Niu had ordered the extermination of the Zhao family, falsely accusing them of colluding with Nanzhao. Zhao Xiuyuan broke down in tears upon hearing this. Pretending to curry favor, Zhao Xiuyuan endured Cheng Fengze’s humiliation, including kneeling to clean his shoes.

Cheng Fengze ordered Zhao Xiuyuan to deliver poisoned food to Yang Jinglan, intending to make him addicted to the substance and break his spirit. Mulan grew curious about the phrase “fearless” and sought Ji Yingying for an explanation. Ji Yingying took Mulan to learn about Yizhou brocade, knowing Mulan’s love for silkworms. Mulan, however, declared that they were not the same kind of people.

Ji Yingying explained that she only wanted to return home and had no intention of staying in Nanzhao. Ji Yingying enlisted Chihu’s help, planning to sell embroidered flowers to earn money for the festival. The head guard caught wind of this and, believing the act, sought to profit from it. Chihu had already reported the plan to Cheng Fengze, who approved and decided to use the scheme to counter Du Yan’s men.

On the day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, Ji Yingying gathered everyone to celebrate. The head guard came to cause trouble again, accusing her of deceiving the king and attempting to have them all executed. Ji Yingying had prepared for this and summoned Cheng Fengze. Chihu presented evidence that the head guard had been colluding with outsiders, earning himself 50 strokes with a cane. The head guard tried desperately to explain, only to realize he had been outmaneuvered.

Ji Yingying insisted on venting her anger, leading Jiang Liu and others to beat the head guard thoroughly. Afterward, Ji Yingying asked Cheng Fengze to provide the craftsmen with the treatment they deserved. Cheng Fengze agreed but demanded they remain in Nanzhao. Cheng Fengze presented the embroidered flowers to the Nanzhao King, honestly explaining Ji Yingying’s plan. The Nanzhao King, understanding Ji Yingying’s intent to win the people’s loyalty, entrusted all matters related to the brocade to Cheng Fengze.

Worried about interference, Cheng Fengze proposed forming an alliance with Du Yan to ensure the success of the Nanzhao brocade, warning that failure would result in punishment for all. Cheng Fengze expressed a desire to stay for the festival, but Ji Yingying remarked that he didn’t belong there, as the festival should have been celebrated in Yizhou. After Cheng Fengze left, Ji Yingying encouraged the craftsmen, promising to fight for their dignity. Her words inspired their unwavering support.

Chen Sanlang supported Ji Yingying, and everyone used the full moon as a symbol to express their longing, spending the Mid-Autumn Festival together. Sang Shisi shared the recipe for his family's mooncakes. Zhu Xiaoniang gazed at him, making him a bit embarrassed. Zhu Xiaoniang confessed her feelings for him. Sang Shisi was stunned and awkwardly kissed her, only to be slapped by Zhu Xiaoniang, who scolded him for not being gentle enough before taking the initiative to kiss him back.

Ji Yingying looked up at the moon, recalling her conversation with Yang Jinglan. She had always seen Yang Jinglan as her moon and worried about his safety. Mulan, curious about the mooncakes, wanted to buy them, but Ji Yingying refused, explaining that mooncakes were gifts for family and friends. Instead, she gave Mulan some mooncakes, and this gesture brought them closer. Mulan opened up, saying she was a native of Nanzhao and could never produce Yizhou silk.

After speaking, she gave Ji Yingying a sachet. Zhao Xiuyuan came with a message, delivering a figurine carved by Yang Jinglan for Ji Yingying. In return, Ji Yingying offered him mooncakes, but Zhao Xiuyuan declined, saying he was unworthy as he had already learned of his family's demise. Hearing this, Ji Yingying grew concerned about her mother and brother in Yizhou, silently hoping for their safety. Yang Jinglan suffered a painful relapse of his addiction.

Cheng Fengze, gloating, believed this method would force Yang Jinglan to talk and reveal his plans. Despite the excruciating pain, Yang Jinglan declared that his plan was to leave Nanzhao. Cheng Fengze noticed the figurine on the ground and, in a fit of rage, smashed it against the wall. He vented his frustrations on Yang Jinglan, determined to let the addiction torment him further. Yang Jinglan secretly vowed to escape with Ji Yingying.

Meanwhile, General Niu was ruthlessly exploiting the Yizhou craftsmen, leaving the people in tears and despair. Ji Yaoting intended to intervene, but Ji Xu was worried. The next day, Ji Yaoting went to Jinguang Mansion to discuss with Zhuge Hong. He noted that although the Yang family brocade had been delivered, it couldn’t meet the high tribute demands of General Niu. Yang Jingshan agreed with their concerns, but Yu Shu had already acted first.

General Niu summoned Ji Yaoting and the other two to his residence, where they saw Yu Shu already there. Yu Shu explained that Yizhou’s craftsmen were dwindling and could no longer meet the tribute demands. General Niu questioned the three of them, and they agreed with Yu Shu’s assessment, stating that the excessive tribute would exhaust their resources, killing the goose that lays the golden eggs.

General Niu recounted a story from his past, lamenting how he was humiliated by a Sichuan brocade family as a child. Smiling, he pretended to be reasonable, agreeing to accept a partial tribute. However, he suddenly drew his sword and killed Yu Shu. The three were dumbfounded as Yu Shu died clutching his family’s brocade, weeping for the Yu family.

Du Yan reported accusations against Cheng Fengze, claiming he had killed the Jiedushi, Mu Hui, and linked the harassment of Nanzhao’s borders to him. Cheng Fengze was furious and vowed to uncover the truth, knowing Yang Jinglan was behind it. Yang Jinglan proposed a deal, offering to resolve the border conflict, as Mu Hui’s former subordinates were merely his old acquaintances in disguise. Cheng Fengze agreed to let him see Ji Yingying.

Yang Jinglan demanded to take Sang Shisi with him, for Cheng Fengze to write a letter admitting collusion with General Niu, and for Cheng Fengze to promise not to harm Ji Yingying for a year. Mulan created new silk, but Chen Sanlang criticized her work. The two bickered, each holding their own opinions. Zhao Xiuyuan suggested a competition, which they both accepted. Cheng Fengze allowed Yang Jinglan and Ji Yingying to meet from a distance.

Yang Jinglan showed her a sword tassel as a signal, while Ji Yingying responded with her bracelet. They bid each other farewell, reassuring one another. Chihu escorted Yang Jinglan and the others to the Tang border, leaving them to travel back to Chang’an on their own. Suddenly, Yang Jinglin appeared. They had been waiting for Yang Jinglan and had prepared travel documents to ensure their safe passage. Yang Jinglin admired Yang Jinglan’s actions, as they all shared the desire to protect Yizhou.

After working tirelessly for months, everyone tried applying the Yizhou method to Nanzhao’s wild silkworms, only to find the resulting silk was easily torn. Mulan was puzzled and couldn’t figure out why. Chen Sanlang grew anxious, unsure if they would be able to weave successful brocade. With only four months left, Zhao Xiuyuan suggested finding another way to leave Nanzhao.

Ji Yingying proposed using fake brocade to deceive the King of Nanzhao, intentionally speaking loudly for the guard outside to hear. Yang Jinglan returned to Chang’an and learned that the Emperor had made the decision to punish General Niu, aiming to restore peace to the people of Yizhou. Ji Yingying brought the Nanzhao brocade to Cheng Fengze, asking him to present it to the King of Nanzhao. Cheng Fengze, however, was displeased.

Knowing that Chang’an had sent troops to suppress General Niu and realizing that Ji Yingying planned to leave Nanzhao, he flew into a rage. He overturned a table, shouting that he would burn down the weaving camp and destroy the Nanzhao brocade. He forcefully pinned Ji Yingying to the ground, threatening to keep both the person and the brocade. Chi Hu reported that Du Yan had taken the King of Nanzhao to the weaving camp.

The King, upon learning of the completion of the Nanzhao brocade, demanded Ji Yingying present it. Cheng Fengze hesitated before bringing out the brocade, claiming it was flawed and easily torn. Du Yan fanned the flames, accusing Ji Yingying and the others of trying to pass off fake brocade as genuine, calling it a crime of deceiving the monarch. The guard captain stepped forward to testify, stating he had overheard them.

To Ji Yingying’s surprise, Cheng Fengze stepped forward and admitted that he had ordered the fake brocade to be made. Ning Dai spoke up on his behalf, claiming he acted out of love and shifted the blame onto Ji Yingying. The King of Nanzhao noticed Ji Yingying’s calm demeanor. She explained that they had successfully woven genuine Nanzhao brocade and presented it to him personally.

Ji Yingying revealed that she had planned the entire deception, deliberately acting with Zhao Xiuyuan to mislead Du Yan, fearing the genuine brocade might be destroyed before they could present it. The King of Nanzhao promised Ji Yingying wealth and status if she stayed in Nanzhao. However, Ji Yingying expressed her desire to return home, proposing to facilitate trade between Yizhou and Nanzhao for mutual benefit.

She tore up the agreement written by the King, trusting him to keep his word and allow her and the Yizhou craftsmen to return home. The King, hoping for someone to stay and teach their techniques, agreed to let Zhao Xiuyuan remain while ordering everyone else to return to Yizhou. He punished Cheng Fengze and Du Yan, barring them from court for three months. Du Yan harbored resentment, while Cheng Fengze fumed with anger and demanded that Ji Yingying stay behind.

He accused her of manipulating him, but Ji Yingying expressed gratitude for his care while acknowledging she couldn’t forgive him on behalf of others. Cheng Fengze discovered that Zhao Xiuyuan had betrayed him, conspiring with Yang Jinglan to orchestrate the border chaos. In prison, Zhao Xiuyuan had pleaded with Yang Jinglan to kill General Niu and avenge his family. Zhao Xiuyuan reminded Cheng Fengze that his actions were not out of true love for Ji Yingying but selfishness.

General Xue led troops to attack Yizhou, worried that General Niu would use his wife and children as leverage. Yang Jinglan decided to infiltrate alone and investigate. He found Zhuge’s corpse hanging at the city gate and rushed forward to recover it. With General Xue’s reinforcements, Yang Jinglan brought Zhuge’s body home. Yang Juxian delivered clothing to dress Zhuge’s body and discovered writing on the garments. Yang Jinglan deduced that Zhuge had left him a message.

After consulting with a coroner, they found a drawing hidden in Zhuge’s stomach, revealing that General Niu planned to try on brocade garments. Zhuge, anticipating his own death, had made preparations in advance. Yang Jinglan hallucinated Zhuge’s presence, bringing him to tears. Cheng Fengze secluded Ji Yingying in the back courtyard, making it impossible for Sang Shisi to find her. Though he knew their relationship had no future, he was unwilling to let go.

As the two were dining, Ning Dai pretended to deliver a message, claiming that the King of Nanzhao wanted to see Cheng Fengze. On the way, Cheng Fengze realized that Ning Dai had betrayed him.

Cheng Fengze realized something was wrong, but before he could confront Ning Dai, he rushed back to the courtyard on horseback. Ning Dai, jealous of Ji Yingying, feared that Cheng Fengze would be ruined because of her. Du Yan, harboring resentment toward Ji Yingying, collaborated with Ning Dai to lure Cheng Fengze away and sent assassins to kill Ji Yingying.

Du Yan knew Ji Yingying was Cheng Fengze's weakness and planned to eliminate her while striking a blow at Cheng Fengze. The assassins broke into the courtyard, killing everyone they encountered. Ji Yingying hid in a water jar but was discovered, chased, and knocked to the ground. Cheng Fengze arrived just in time, locking Ji Yingying inside a room to face the assassins alone. Ji Yingying heard the sounds of fighting outside and tried to open the door but couldn't.

Cheng Fengze was injured and stabbed, and the assassins forced their way into the room. Ji Yingying cried out his name as Cheng Fengze, using his last bit of strength, apologized to her. Ning Dai and her men arrived and dealt with the assassins. Before dying, Cheng Fengze pleaded with Ning Dai to protect Ji Yingying and help her return home. Following Cheng Fengze's wishes, Chi Hu escorted the craftsmen back to Yizhou.

Ji Yingying erected a memorial tablet for Cheng Fengze and scattered flower seeds in the courtyard before leaving, hoping to bring peace to his spirit. Ning Dai, regretful of her actions, wept as she paid her respects to Cheng Fengze. Ji Yaoting and others delivered brocade garments to General Niu, with Yu Linglong insisting on accompanying him. They were blindfolded and taken to General Niu’s location.

After trying on the garments, General Niu claimed they were unsuitable and asked Yu Linglong to come closer for inspection. Knowing Yang Jinglan would come that night, General Niu decided to set a trap. Meanwhile, Yang Jinglan eliminated guards along the way, searching for General Niu’s hideout. When Ji Yaoting realized their plan had been discovered, he stopped hiding his intentions and accused General Niu of ruining Yizhou’s brocade industry, vowing to seek justice.

He threw oil onto the brocade garments and set them on fire, using the flames to signal Yang Jinglan. General Niu ordered his men to fire arrows, and Ji Yaoting was struck twice but managed to stand. Yu Linglong fought back but was struck by General Niu, coughing up blood. Yang Jinglan, seeing the firelight, arrived in time to stop the archers. General Niu, waiting for him, commanded his soldiers to kill Yang Jinglan.

Yang Jinglan and Yu Linglong fought the soldiers, persuading them to abandon their weapons to spare their families. The soldiers, seeking self-preservation, fled. Furious, General Niu berated them as useless and prepared to fight himself. Yang Jinglan vowed to seek justice for the deceased, leading to a fierce battle. Overpowered, Yang Jinglan was knocked down by General Niu. Yu Linglong fought alone but was fatally wounded. Seeing this, Ji Yaoting rushed to hold Yu Linglong in his arms.

She urged him to live well and promised to meet again when the flowers bloomed next year. With those words, she died with tears in her eyes, leaving Ji Yaoting to cry out in grief. Yang Jinglan, despite being gravely injured, fought General Niu with all his strength. Enraged, Ji Yaoting scattered flaming brocade to obscure General Niu’s vision, giving Yang Jinglan the chance to kill him.

Ji Yingying, traveling with the craftsmen, saw Yang Jinglan waiting for them at the bridge. Yizhou regained its peace. At the Brocade Bureau, Yang Jinglan paid his final respects to Shen Jingguan and Zhuge Hong before departing. Before leaving, he entrusted the Brocade Bureau guards to protect Yizhou’s prosperity. Yang Jinglan promised Ji Yingying a wedding and invited Gao Fang to attend. Gao Fang, preferring a life of freedom, left after gifting a jar of wine.

The Yang residence buzzed with excitement as Yang Jinglan tried on his wedding attire. Yang Juxian offered him a shop to manage, but Yang Jinglan, mentioning Ji Yingying, expressed his desire to resign from the Brocade Bureau and support her instead. Ji Yingying, while trying on her wedding dress, discussed business matters with Zhu Xiaoniang. Ji Yaoting brought a hairpin prepared in advance by Yu Linglong. Meanwhile, Chen Sanlang, awkward in expressing his feelings, showed interest in Mulan.

Jiang Liulang excitedly announced he would soon be a father, making Sang Shisi envious. Yang Jinglan arrived early, eager to marry Ji Yingying. Just then, news came that the Crown Prince had arrived. The Crown Prince issued an imperial decree, appointing Ji Yingying as the Lady of Silkworms and summoning her to the capital. The Crown Prince officiated their marriage, allowing the wedding to proceed on the same day.

After everything, Ji Yingying reflected on her journey, finally bringing justice to the brocade industry, avenging her father, and establishing a unique trade in brocade.

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