Follow Your Heart Recap, Plot, Synopsis

Follow Your Heart Synopsis

The aloof and proud Duke of Yuejiang, Jiang Xinbai, who suffers from face blindness and vows to eradicate the world's "Zornia Herb," arrives in He Man to secretly investigate the "Zornia Herb Case." There, he unexpectedly meets Yan Nanxing, a passionate and wild itinerant doctor who transforms once a month. Despite their initial clashes, they come to know each other through conflict. Together, they navigate the secrets each harbors, experiencing a peculiar romance marked by three unions and three separations. Ultimately, they join forces to eliminate the scourge of the Zornia Herb.

Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing, both strong and solitary individuals, overcome numerous obstacles to uphold justice and discover the true meaning of love. They realize that while appearance is significant, it pales in comparison to the connection of hearts. Love is not about possession or conquest; true love transcends external characteristics, social class, and past grievances. It is about steadfastly pursuing justice and being willing to shoulder the responsibility of this love, even to the extent of protecting all people.

Follow Your Heart Recap

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In the early years of Da Qi, Zornia herb became popular. This herb could cure many diseases but had toxic properties, so it was strictly controlled. Nevertheless, some lawbreakers still sold it illegally for profit. A small river flowed gently as the proud and aloof prince, Jiang Xinbai, arrived in He Man by boat. In the bustling market, wandering physician Yan Nanxing and Phantom Physician were performing drums and dances on a boat, attracting a large crowd.

Yan Nanxing announced that she and her mother were traveling to practice medicine and had invited a theater troupe for a performance, while also offering free medical consultations on the spot. Passing by on a small boat, Jiang Xinbai dismissed it as a mere trick of wandering doctors. He was there to meet Bai Laosan but couldn't find the place among the many riverside taverns. Using his keen hearing, Jiang Xinbai finally found his destination.

At that moment, Yan Nanxing cured a patient with crossed eyes on the spot and ended the free consultations. The theater performance was about to begin. The tavern was bustling with song and dance, making Jiang Xinbai, with his cold and sharp demeanor, seem out of place. When he reached Bai Laosan, Jiang Xinbai instantly put on a smile and greeted Bai Laosan and Ma Jiu.

His attendant, Yao Qianshu, quietly reminded him which one was Bai Laosan because Jiang Xinbai had face blindness. Noticing that Bai Laosan was trying to fool him with inferior goods, Jiang Xinbai's expression changed, and he was about to leave. Bai Laosan laughed heartily and asked him to taste it again. After confirming the goods were genuine, Jiang Xinbai paid him. Realizing that Bai Laosan was not a significant figure, Jiang Xinbai discussed terms with him.

As he was about to leave, he was attacked by Bai Laosan's men. In the chaotic scene, Jiang Xinbai dodged a flying dagger, which ended up killing Bai Laosan instead. Amid the commotion, Jiang Xinbai pursued the assassin and chased him all the way to Yan Nanxing's theater stage. Unaware of the situation, Yan Nanxing, determined to defend her stage, fought with Jiang Xinbai. Someone tried to mediate but was taken hostage by the assassin.

When the curtain opened again, the assassin was already dead. Deputy Li led soldiers to the scene, and Phantom Physician calmly signaled to Yan Nanxing. The soldiers suspected Yan Nanxing of using the performance as a cover for murder. Jiang Xinbai sensed that her real motive for the performance was to meet Nan Jifeng and claimed he was also involved. The situation escalated into a dispute over who should be taken away.

Deputy Li, annoyed, was about to take both of them when a soldier brought a message, causing him to change his mind and release Jiang Xinbai. Yan Nanxing was taken away but cheerfully thanked him. In the General's Mansion, Yan Nanxing was brought to General's wife, Gaya. Yan Nanxing and her mother had caused a stir in the city to get Gaya's attention, and they finally stood before her.

Gaya had scales like a snake, and rumors said she was a snake demon reincarnated. Clever Yan Nanxing spoke well, promising to treat her after the full moon. After settling in, Yan Nanxing tried to inform Phantom Physician but was stopped by guards, forcing Phantom Physician to sneak in. The two had their plan. Gaya demanded treatment within three days, but the full moon, which was in three days, marked the period of water, ensuring her death.

Phantom Physician gave her a whistle, assuring her everything would be fine with her around. Jiang Xinbai decided to not stay at an inn and instead rented a pleasure boat, refusing the company of girls. The madam agreed without question, lured by money. With no news from Nan Jifeng, Jiang Xinbai decided to visit the general personally that night. Meanwhile, Yan Nanxing was helping Gaya bathe and inquired about a secret medicine in the border tribes.

At a critical moment, Yan Nanxing blew the whistle, covered Gaya's face, and anxiously waited for Phantom Physician. When she didn't come, Yan Nanxing turned into a burly man on the spot. Gaya, horrified, tried to run, not realizing Phantom Physician was also being chased around the courtyard. On the wall, Jiang Xinbai heard the whistle and decided to meet the mother and daughter.

Remembering he had Zornia herb on his boat, Jiang Xinbai returned to change his clothes and watched from the boat's bow. Suddenly, a disheveled man with water plants on his head climbed out of the water.

A burly man climbed out of the water. Upon seeing Jiang Xinbai's face, Yan Nanxing immediately sensed trouble. However, Jiang Xinbai, who suffered from face blindness, recognized her as a young woman based on her clothes and hairstyle, startling Yan Nanxing. She assumed he couldn't see clearly in the dark. Out of goodwill, Jiang Xinbai offered her a hand to help her up.

Fearing her disguise would be revealed, Yan Nanxing heard the sounds of pursuing soldiers and quickly climbed up, crawling around in a panic to find a hiding spot. Due to her plump body, she couldn't find a suitable place and ended up on Jiang Xinbai's bed. Jiang Xinbai was astonished by this scene. Yan Nanxing continued to run around, and Jiang Xinbai noticed that the person's hands and feet were those of a man.

Why was he disguised as a woman? Deputy Li led the soldiers in pursuit. Jiang Xinbai dealt with him alone. Realizing Jiang Xinbai intended to help her, Yan Nanxing, without much thought, decided not to implicate him. She got up and ran, drawing the soldiers away. The General's residence issued a wanted order for Yan Nanxing and her mother. Jiang Xinbai thought these two women must be extraordinary and decided to leave the city to find them.

After four or five days without reverting back, Yan Nanxing was very anxious, lying on a tree talking to the moon. A lightning bolt struck, causing her to fall and revert to her original form. Gui Yi Liang had been waiting for Yan Nanxing to come to her, but instead, Jiang Xinbai showed up. On her journey, Yan Nanxing passed by an inn and was splashed with horse manure but had no time to change clothes due to her urgency.

Jiang Xinbai, after tying up Gui Yi Liang, questioned what Yan Nanxing and her mother were doing among the river barbarians and offered to ensure Yan Nanxing's safety. Naturally, Gui Yi Liang wouldn't reveal anything, so Jiang Xinbai gagged her upon hearing approaching hoofbeats. When Jiang Xinbai stepped outside, he saw Yan Nanxing, still reeking of horse manure and dressed as a man. He gave her some silver to rest elsewhere. Yan Nanxing was initially surprised he didn't recognize her.

Hearing sounds from inside, she mistakenly thought there was danger inside and that Jiang Xinbai was warning her, so she took the silver, thanked him, and left. Her actions reminded Jiang Xinbai of Yan Nanxing, but he had no time to ponder this as Gui Yi Liang knocked him out. Gui Yi Liang and Yan Nanxing reunited but soon quarreled and parted ways, with Yan Nanxing asking her to inquire about a certain young man.

After Gui Yi Liang left, Jiang Xinbai arrived. Yan Nanxing intended to thank him properly, but he threw a bundle of rope at her, telling her to tie herself up first. Yan Nanxing wanted to resist but was tied up by Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Xinbai intended to question her about her dealings at the General's residence, but she saw through his intentions, realizing he never meant to help her from the start.

Soon, more soldiers arrived, and Jiang Xinbai jumped into the water with the rope, causing Yan Nanxing to faint from lack of oxygen. Jiang Xinbai kindly gave her some air, shocking Yan Nanxing when she saw it. They woke up on the shore, where Jiang Xinbai treated her wounds and untied her. They had been swept here by a swift current. Jiang Xinbai, with a keen sense of smell, detected the scent of gui grass.

He found a large patch of gui grass nearby, which at such a dosage could be highly toxic. Yan Nanxing discovered a little girl poisoned by the grass. They carried her to a nearby household, but the residents were unwelcoming and tried to drive them away. Seeing the girl's life in danger, Yan Nanxing insisted she was a doctor and could save her, thus they were allowed to stay.

Jiang Xinbai realized the residents were Lanna people, whose country had been destroyed, and they dared not seek doctors, but the gui grass wasn't planted by them. A grandmother pleaded with Yan Nanxing to save the child. Yan Nanxing, moved with compassion, immediately went up the mountain with a bamboo basket to gather herbs. Jiang Xinbai, skeptical of her medical skills, still offered his help.

There were no young people in the village, likely due to the toxicity of gui grass. The little girl thanked Yan Nanxing upon waking, making her happy for saving a life. Jiang Xinbai went alone to the gui grass field, knowing the village would never be at peace while the grass remained. Yan Nanxing decisively set it on fire. The grandmother was terrified, knowing those who planted the grass wouldn't let them off.

But Jiang Xinbai reassured her that no one would force them to plant gui grass again.

Although they had already experienced so much together in Lanna Village, Yan Nanxing was still tied up by Jiang Xinbai. Riding on horseback, Jiang Xinbai led Yan Nanxing back to He Man. Yan Nanxing couldn’t figure out his intentions, but she was surprised to find that the rope on her hands was easily undone. Despite her confusion, she chose not to escape, thinking it would be safer to stay with him.

Jiang Xinbai remained calm as they reached a post station to eat. Yan Nanxing talked non-stop, asking him why he let her go in the small dilapidated temple that day. Was it because he didn't recognize her? Jiang Xinbai's face darkened immediately, but Yan Nanxing just laughed, clearly not believing him. His expression softened slightly as he asked about the incident at the General's Mansion.

Yan Nanxing made up a lie, saying it was actually her senior sister he saved that day, who, due to her naturally masculine appearance and burly figure, was too embarrassed to be seen, causing a misunderstanding. Jiang Xinbai obviously didn't believe her. Even though they had known each other for only a few days, he had already seen through her nature—cunning and impulsive, with not a single truthful word.

During the meal, several men started discussing the wanted notice about the mother and daughter from He Man. They mentioned that these women rented a house and had men of all ages coming and going every day, even children, insinuating that they were promiscuous. Yan Nanxing pretended not to hear and continued eating, but as their words became more obscene, tears welled up in her eyes.

Seeing this, Jiang Xinbai decisively intervened, and within a few moves, the men fled in panic. That night, Yan Nanxing cried alone in the courtyard. She lamented how people could only make up lies about her. Did she really want to keep transforming every day? Who wouldn’t want a stable life and friends? Jiang Xinbai heard her cries and played the flute from his room, the melodious tune bringing a smile to Yan Nanxing's face.

The next day, Jiang Xinbai decided to let her go. Though he didn’t believe her story, he believed she wasn’t a bad person and had her own troubles. However, Yan Nanxing changed her mind, insisting on returning to He Man with him and offering two pieces of intelligence about Nan Jifeng in exchange. Jiang Xinbai, intrigued, agreed to cooperate with her. Upon returning to He Man, they were immediately surrounded by Lieutenant Li, who wanted to take Yan Nanxing away.

Jiang Xinbai argued that capturing someone in public was against the rules, and Nan Jifeng arrived just in time to bring them back to the mansion. Yan Nanxing explained what happened that day, and Jia Ye believed her, as the medicine had taken effect a few days after she left. Jiang Xinbai, still using a pseudonym, claimed his surname was Xi and that he was a tea merchant, hoping to discuss business with Nan Jifeng.

Nan Jifeng offered him a pot of wine, and Jiang Xinbai, recalling Yan Nanxing's claim that Nan Jifeng's wine wouldn't cause drunkenness, drank it with some hesitation. Unexpectedly, he ended up drunk and was taken away by Yan Nanxing that evening. In his drunken state, Jiang Xinbai touched Yan Nanxing's face, unable to see her clearly and therefore unable to trust her. Yan Nanxing was puzzled by his actions.

Jiang Xinbai suddenly bandaged her wounds, repeatedly asking if it hurt, and then leaned against her to watch the fireworks together. Yan Nanxing had spent a considerable amount of money to set off fireworks for him. The two of them sat quietly on a small bridge, silently enjoying the brilliant display in the sky amidst the bustling city. A tear from Jiang Xinbai fell on Yan Nanxing's hand, making her even more afraid to move.

The next day, Jiang Xinbai woke up in Yan Nanxing's guest room. Though she couldn't understand Jiang Xinbai completely, she felt he was a good person with ulterior motives. Jiang Xinbai found her unassailable logic frustrating, cornering her against a wall to warn her that from the moment they returned to He Man, every word they exchanged was no joke.

Yao Qianshu was very worried upon hearing that Jiang Xinbai drank wine with Nan Jifeng. Jiang Xinbai had a poor tolerance for alcohol and face blindness; if anything went wrong, how could he explain it to Wang Nv? Yao Qianshu shared what he had discovered with Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Xinbai recalled that Yan Nanxing mentioned there were secrets in Nan Jifeng's secret chamber, containing something they wanted. Nan Jifeng sent Gaya back to her family, which upset her.

Upon leaving, Gaya encountered Jiang Xinbai and apologized, saying that Nan Jifeng might not see him today. Jiang Xinbai changed the topic, saying he was there to greet Gaya, who teasingly remarked that he probably came to see Yan Nanxing. Jiang Xinbai asked Yan Nanxing for a favor, assuring her that she wouldn't need to compromise herself and could even name her price afterward. Yan Nanxing sensed something unusual and leaned in closer, only for Gaya to witness the scene.

Jiang Xinbai then took Yan Nanxing's hand, suggesting they go for a walk, and they ended up at a boat. Yan Nanxing admired it, recalling she hadn't looked closely last time. Jiang Xinbai asked when the last time was, making Yan Nanxing stutter in fear. Jiang Xinbai requested Yan Nanxing to distract Nan Jifeng for an hour that night so he could find the secret chamber.

Yan Nanxing, sensing an opportunity, insisted she didn't want money but wanted to know if Jiang Xinbai had any family members who had been persecuted by kuei grass. Jiang Xinbai clenched his hand, his emotions unreadable. Suddenly, some mothers brought two beautiful young women, who immediately clung to Jiang Xinbai. Yan Nanxing jumped in to help him, affectionately hugging his arm and claiming to be his wife, scaring off the mothers and the young women.

Without her intervention, Jiang Xinbai would have been completely taken advantage of. However, in Jiang Xinbai's eyes, she was just jealous. Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai's plan commenced. That night, she secretly drugged the tea and had Gaya invite Nan Jifeng over. Unexpectedly, Nan Jifeng arrived in a rush on his own. Yan Nanxing smugly closed the door, allowing Jiang Xinbai to search for the secret chamber.

However, he noticed someone passing by the study and quickly pulled Yan Nanxing away. Jiang Xinbai told Yan Nanxing to leave that night, but she insisted on finding what she wanted in the secret chamber. Jiang Xinbai said there was nothing there for her, warning that chaos was imminent in He Man, and he didn't want her involved. Yan Nanxing didn't understand his words and remained resolute. Jiang Xinbai could only warn her to stay in her room that night.

Jiang Xinbai was followed by Lieutenant Li, leading to a fight that alarmed the General's Mansion. Nan Jifeng invited Jiang Xinbai into the secret chamber, and Jiang Xinbai instructed Yao Qianshu to guard Yan Nanxing. At that moment, Lieutenant Li suddenly attempted to assassinate Nan Jifeng. Gaya intended to shield him with her body, but Nan Jifeng was still stabbed, and the blade was poisoned.

With Nan Jifeng's life hanging in the balance, Yan Nanxing suggested using kuei grass in the medicine to save him, but Nan Jifeng refused, even if it meant dying from the poison. Yan Nanxing proposed another solution: using human blood in the medicine. Without hesitation, Jiang Xinbai cut his palm, offering his blood to save him. Yan Nanxing bandaged him afterward, looking worried. Jiang Xinbai said that without Nan Jifeng, his mission would be meaningless.

Yan Nanxing shared that she could have opened a pharmacy but chose to be a traveling doctor to avoid facing so much death and separation. Saving lives made her feel like she was bearing the weight of those lives. These were things she had never even told her mother, but sharing them with him felt like confiding in a friend.

Jiang Xinbai revealed his real name, and Yan Nanxing, taking advantage of the moment, continued to ask questions, making them both laugh heartily. Yao Qianshu came to report to Jiang Xinbai, stating that he had investigated Nan Jifeng and found that since he was assigned to He Man, there had been five unexplained deaths in the army.

Gaya's tribe worships snakes, so the common people calling her a snake demon isn't entirely wrong. She prayed to the heavens, willing to pay any price to be with Nan Jifeng for a lifetime. She severed ties with her tribe, but never expected the price would be Nan Jifeng's life. Yan Nanxing hurriedly comforted her, assuring her that Nan Jifeng would recover. Soon, Nan Jifeng woke up safely and showed Jiang Xinbai the gifts people had bribed him with.

Jiang Xinbai had always thought Nan Jifeng was colluding with them to smuggle the Gui grass, but it seemed that wasn't the case. Nan Jifeng had been harmed by Gui grass and pretended to be drunk to investigate after his recovery. Jiang Xinbai scolded him, saying it was absurd and that he was merely worried about Gaya getting implicated and his own reputation being ruined. In the end, he was only thinking about himself.

Nan Jifeng hoped Jiang Xinbai would leave Heman soon and would be grateful if he could take Gaya with him. Jiang Xinbai, however, insisted that Nan Jifeng needed to make an example, showing everyone that he was personally appointed by the emperor. Nan Jifeng ordered a thorough investigation of the Gui grass, which greatly pleased Jiang Xinbai. While eating, Tu Men's magistrate sent an invitation, asking Jiang Xinbai and Nan Jifeng to visit his residence.

Jiang Xinbai knew this invitation wouldn't be simple. Before leaving, he gave her a sword for self-defense and instructed Yao Qianshu to stay close to Yan Nanxing and Gaya all night, fearing a diversionary tactic rather than the banquet itself. Jiang Xinbai and Nan Jifeng arrived at the Tu Men residence. The grand entrance was unexpected, more imposing than Nan Jifeng's general's mansion.

Gaya once again made a solemn vow to live and die with Nan Jifeng, which surprised Yan Nanxing greatly. At night, Yan Nanxing set up traps in her room, aware of the impending danger. They might be taken hostage to be used against Jiang Xinbai and Nan Jifeng, but she wouldn't let that happen. Yao Qianshu sat quietly in the courtyard, alert to any unusual sounds.

Hearing fighting outside, Yan Nanxing gripped her knife tightly, hoping Jiang Xinbai would return safely. Jiang Xinbai and Nan Jifeng attended the banquet, but Jiang Xinbai's real target was Mo Qi, who was hidden among the drummers but had forgotten to disguise his hands. Mo Qi revealed herself to be the madam of the pleasure boat when she tore off her mask, revealing her true identity as a woman.

Jiang Xinbai pondered for a while, recalling how Mo Qi had overheard his conversation with Yao Qianshu and had called him "Lord Jiang Xinbai. " Mo Qi wondered about his true identity. Jiang Xinbai confronted her, and immediately, people rushed in to attack, but Jiang Xinbai and Nan Jifeng defeated them easily, capturing Mo Qi. News of dealing with Mo Qi spread, and the people rejoiced, but Jiang Xinbai knew she wasn't the real mastermind.

Gaya and Yan Nanxing went out for a stroll, but Gaya was still gloomy. Nan Jifeng suggested she and Jiang Xinbai go to the capital together, but who exactly was he? Yan Nanxing didn't know, but she felt Jiang Xinbai could protect her. They became friends, and Yan Nanxing wanted Gaya's elixir, but Gaya said it was for curing snake venom, which deflated Yan Nanxing's hopes.

In the distance, there was the sound of a reed flute, coming from Jiang Xinbai's pleasure boat. Yan Nanxing ran over and returned the knife to Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Xinbai promised that she could come to the capital to find him if she encountered any difficulties. He wrote down his address for Yan Nanxing and asked her where she planned to go next.

Yan Nanxing wasn't sure—maybe she'd look for her mother, go to places she hadn't been, or perhaps really go to the capital to find him. However, the Gui grass issue was far from over. Gaya was threatened by a mysterious woman, ordered to deliver a batch of goods out of the city within ten days, and to eliminate both Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing.

Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai went back to find Gaya, but she was nowhere to be seen. They split up to search for her, and Jiang Xinbai accidentally heard Gaya's voice coming from a nearby alley. They went to investigate and saw Gaya talking to a mysterious veiled woman. The mysterious woman left hastily upon seeing them, which aroused Jiang Xinbai's suspicion.

Back at the mansion, Gaya prayed to the heavens for a match between Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing, saying that their mutual affection deserved a reward. Yan Nanxing quickly waved her hands in refusal, but Gaya insisted that the divination showed they had a destined relationship with three fateful encounters. Gaya and Nan Jifeng got excited about hosting a wedding for the two in Heman.

Yan Nanxing was frantic, pulling Jiang Xinbai to explain, but Jiang Xinbai decided to go along with the will of heaven. Yan Nanxing was extremely frustrated, questioning why Jiang Xinbai wanted to marry her. Jiang Xinbai explained that he was worried it wouldn't be safe for Yan Nanxing to leave alone, as the remnants of Heman might come after her. After all, in their eyes, Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai were a couple.

This frightened Yan Nanxing, and Jiang Xinbai revealed his plan, though he couldn't disclose specific details. It was meant to ensure the safe departure of Yan Nanxing and Gaya from Heman. Yan Nanxing was initially unwilling to cooperate, but after Jiang Xinbai pleaded repeatedly, she recalled his promise. He had always considered her a friend, and their goals had always been aligned.

Moved by his heartfelt words, Yan Nanxing agreed to marry him, determined to face whatever came their way together. On the wedding day, as she sat in her wedding dress, Yan Nanxing remembered her childhood. She had been kidnapped, dressed as a bride, and saved by a young boy. Gaya prepared a gift for Yan Nanxing: luminous cups for the couple to drink their nuptial wine.

Though Gaya felt guilty using the wedding to cover the transportation of goods, she didn't know how else to make amends. Jiang Xinbai was aware of Gaya's true intentions but needed to catch her red-handed. Heman was a city on the water, and Gaya and Nan Jifeng hosted a unique water wedding for the couple. Yan Nanxing, in her wedding dress, arrived by boat to Jiang Xinbai amidst cheers and blessings, completing the ceremony.

Yan Nanxing hesitated, knowing it was all a facade, but Jiang Xinbai enjoyed the moment. When it came to the final step, the bedchamber ritual, they both hesitated, pulling back and forth until Yan Nanxing fell into Jiang Xinbai's arms. Jiang Xinbai asked her what her ideal wedding was like, and people around them showered them with flower petals and blessings. In the bridal chamber, Gaya brought them nuptial wine and only left after seeing them drink it.

Yan Nanxing tried to follow her, but Jiang Xinbai, pretending to be drunk, held her back. Hearing a noise outside, Jiang Xinbai immediately got up, telling Yan Nanxing to stay put and promising to explain everything after that night. Gaya, with a fierce look, entered the room, startling Yan Nanxing. Despite her fear, Yan Nanxing instinctively protected her. Gaya, however, pulled out a knife, threatening Jiang Xinbai outside to release the assassins in exchange for Yan Nanxing's safety.

Jiang Xinbai had long known Gaya's identity and intentions but hadn't exposed her because the timing wasn't right. When Nan Jifeng arrived, Jiang Xinbai finally revealed her true nature—Gaya had been overstepping her bounds by dealing with the three major families. Nan Jifeng was heartbroken upon learning the truth. He raised his hand but then lowered it, asking her why she had done it.

It turned out that when Deputy General Li followed Jiang Xinbai back and confronted Nan Jifeng about the danger he faced, Jiang Xinbai had realized it was Gaya's ploy. She had intended to take a knife for Nan Jifeng to clear her name, but Nan Jifeng took the blow for her instead. For a long time, Jiang Xinbai had not suspected Gaya, but when she suddenly proposed arranging their wedding, he knew she was the mastermind.

Jiang Xinbai painstakingly persuaded Gaya to help the Chief Constable's Office solve the case. Yan Nanxing was deeply pained upon discovering that Jiang Xinbai was from the Chief Constable's Office and had never trusted her. Jiang Xinbai ordered Gaya to be taken away, but Nan Jifeng insisted on going with her. Gaya, unwilling to face trial and implicate Nan Jifeng, grabbed a knife and committed suicide. Gaya died in the arms of her beloved.

Yan Nanxing, unable to save her in time, looked at Jiang Xinbai with hatred. She was heartbroken by Jiang Xinbai's deception, feeling that her hard-fought life belonged to her and no one had the right to take it. Yan Nanxing ran out into the pouring rain, and Yao Qianshu urged Jiang Xinbai to go after her, warning that he would regret it for the rest of his life if he let her go.

However, that night was a full moon, and Yan Nanxing transformed again, becoming a woman with a different appearance. She passed by Jiang Xinbai without recognition. Jiang Xinbai seemed to recognize her but ultimately did not acknowledge her. As Yan Nanxing walked through the alley, she was knocked out by a man. Nan Jifeng knew that Gaya's secret, which she chose death to protect, must be significant enough to safeguard his life.

They all knew that the mastermind must be in the capital. When Yan Nanxing woke up, she found herself in a shabby hut. The man before her was the trafficker who had kidnapped her years ago to sell her as a bride! True to his nature, he hadn't changed. Yan Nanxing tricked him into thinking she had inhaled a drug, then tied him up and took her revenge.

Yan Nanxing wanted to know the whereabouts of the boy who had saved her back then. The boy had covered her escape, and while they were fleeing, a group of men in black forced them to drink a potion. Later, another group of men in official boots took the boy away, leaving Yan Nanxing behind. She had been searching for the boy ever since, wondering if he, like her, had contracted the strange illness that caused transformations.

Only by finding him could she uncover the truth. Back in the capital, Yao Qianshu was negotiating with Jiang Xinbai when they encountered Jinwu Guards arresting a thief. There was always friction between them. Late at night, Jiang Zhiyi, dressed in night clothes, came to see Jiang Xinbai. Upon learning that he had gone to Heman, Jiang Zhiyi was very worried; the Emperor was most wary of nobles visiting borderlands.

A few days later, it would be their grandfather's birthday, and Jiang Zhiyi insisted that Jiang Xinbai help entertain the guests. Though Jiang Xinbai was reluctant, he eventually agreed under Jiang Zhiyi's persistent coaxing. The next morning, Shang Bieli, the commander of the Jinwu Guards, barged into the Chief Constable's Office with his men, creating a tense standoff with Jiang Xinbai, and challenged him to a duel.

Jiang Xinbai, who had previously served under Nan Jifeng and was his sworn brother, realized that the batch of Zornia herb had already arrived in the capital and that his identity had been discovered. The purpose of this was to have Jiang Xinbai reprimanded by the Emperor and to halt his investigation. As a result, Jiang Xinbai immediately convened his trusted aides for a meeting. From the day the Zornia herb was released, Jiang Xinbai knew that this matter could only succeed, not fail; the Zornia herb must not be allowed to enter the market.

Since her transformation, Yan Nanxing had been recording her appearance, but she couldn't find any pattern despite her efforts. At that moment, she was on a carriage heading to the capital. She was determined to protect her little brother once she found him. Yao Qianshu occasionally mentioned Yan Nanxing to Jiang Xinbai, asking if he had thought about looking for her, but Jiang Xinbai didn't seem too troubled. Goods from the capital had entered the Phantom Market, and the woman who brought them in from the River Barbarians was tracked and hid in the Twelve Music House, where she was cornered by the Jinwu Guards.

When Jiang Xinbai rushed to the Twelve Music House, Shang Bieli killed the woman in front of him. Jiang Xinbai's personal involvement indicated the matter was serious, but it was too late—the woman was dead. Shang Bieli left smugly, and Jiang Xinbai began analyzing why the woman went to the Twelve Music House; perhaps she had accomplices there. The Phantom Market was not under the jurisdiction of the Chief Constable's Office. Jiang Xinbai knew that forcing his way into the Phantom Market could cause trouble, so he temporarily assigned someone to monitor it. Tonight, he had to attend his maternal grandfather’s banquet.

At the gate of the villa, Jiang Xinbai brushed past Jiang Suoluo, who was angry that he didn't notice her, unaware of Jiang Xinbai’s face blindness. Jiang Xinbai and Jiang Suoluo were full siblings; Jiang Zhiyi could inherit the title, and Jiang Suoluo also eyed the title covetously. Although they were siblings, they were not harmonious. In fact, Jiang Suoluo held disdain for her brother Jiang Xinbai. At the banquet, their grandfather was delighted to see Jiang Suoluo but greeted Jiang Xinbai as if he were a stranger. Jiang Suoluo's sweet words pleased their grandfather, and Jiang Zhiyi quickly urged Jiang Xinbai to find an opportunity to toast their grandfather, emphasizing that they were family. During the banquet, Jiang Suoluo announced her transfer to the Hanlin Academy as a sacrificial wine, much to their grandfather's delight.

Jiang Xinbai suddenly left as Yao Qianshu had official business to discuss with him. Jiang Xinbai planned to leave the banquet early, but Jiang Zhiyi tried to stop him, reminding him that it was their grandfather's birthday. Jiang Xinbai had no choice but to quietly inform him about the Zornia herb. Shang Bieli arrived uninvited, and Jiang Xinbai took the opportunity to drag him to pay respects to their grandfather, using the chance to set a trap and leave smoothly.

Yan Nanxing, newly arrived in the capital, enjoyed a sumptuous meal at an inn and booked a room for two nights. Using her wealth, she inquired about the information she wanted from the innkeeper, learning that the most useful place to gather information was the Phantom Market. Liu Ruoqian, working at Manager Cao’s place, was set to join the Hanlin Academy. Manager Cao gave him a generous sum of money, hoping he would keep silent about what he had seen and heard in recent days.

Yan Nanxing, curious, entered the bustling Phantom Market, where people drank, danced, and mingled. Jiang Xinbai also infiltrated the Phantom Market to investigate the Zornia herb, with Jiang Suoluo secretly following them. Jiang Xinbai was drawn to Tong Saier, who was dancing in circles and decided to go down for a closer look. Shang Bieli, a frequent visitor to the Phantom Market, planned to set a fire to distract Jiang Xinbai, making it easy to obtain what he wanted.

Jiang Xinbai's grandfather was very dissatisfied with him. He clearly saw through the act Jiang Xinbai put on with Shang Bieli earlier. Recently, the Emperor had brought up the matter of the Jiang family's succession. Influenced by the Empress, the Emperor intended to let Jiang Suoluo inherit the title. The grandfather wasn't worried; after all, having his daughter inherit the title was acceptable, and he didn't oppose his granddaughter inheriting it either.

However, Jiang Zhiyi had always felt guilty towards Jiang Xinbai and wanted to make amends, so the position was always meant for Jiang Xinbai. But the grandfather thought Jiang Xinbai was too much like his father. Zhaoming was, after all, a criminal, and Jiang Xinbai being too much like him was not a good thing. Yan Nanxing wandered around the Phantom Market and was persuaded to buy a large pancake, but she managed to find out about Manager Cao's shop.

Entering the shop, Yan Nanxing quietly mentioned that it was a full moon tonight and that they needed to act quickly. By accident, she uttered the secret code between Manager Cao and his contact. Manager Cao mistook her for someone delivering the Zornia herb and immediately showed great respect. Yan Nanxing, unaware of this, was happily looking to solve things quickly. However, after some back-and-forth, it turned out Yan Nanxing was actually looking to buy information from him.

Manager Cao promptly closed the shop, claiming he wouldn't do business with her. Liu Ruoqian hurriedly escorted Yan Nanxing out. Although Yan Nanxing was upset, she felt he was a good person and gave him the pancake she had bought for ten coins. Liu Ruoqian then rescued Jiang Suoluo from being harassed by a gambling addict, and it was love at first sight for him.

Yan Nanxing ran into Jiang Xinbai and instinctively hid but quickly realized she shouldn't hide since he was the one who wronged her. However, as they brushed past each other, Jiang Xinbai didn't recognize her, only finding her departing figure somewhat familiar. Feeling dejected, Yan Nanxing entered a shop where there was said to be a goddess. Clinging to this last hope, Yan Nanxing asked the goddess where the person she was looking for was.

The goddess told her that the person she was looking for was right beside her. The goddess, unable to bear the pain in her stomach, went to the restroom and asked Yan Nanxing to watch the shop for her. Jiang Xinbai and his group were secretly tracking someone, but that person died and swallowed a token.

Jiang Xinbai ordered someone to cut him open to retrieve the token, seal off the Phantom Market, and find the other half of the token. Jiang Suoluo accidentally entered the shop, and Yan Nanxing had to put on a veil and imitate the goddess's tone while talking to her. Jiang Suoluo soon discovered that she wasn't Persian. There were rumors on the street that it would be sealed off.

Yan Nanxing feared that something might go wrong on this full moon night, but the area was so tightly surrounded by the Chief Constable's Office that she couldn't get out. Manager Cao, who held significant influence in the Phantom Market, was displeased with the street being sealed off and confronted Jiang Xinbai in public, drawing the attention of Yan Nanxing and Jiang Suoluo. Shortly after, Shang Bieli arrived with his men, clearly intending to oppose Jiang Xinbai.

Seeing this, Jiang Suoluo stepped forward to persuade them to make concessions. Yan Nanxing was surprised to learn that she was Jiang Xinbai's sister. Jiang Xinbai ordered a search, but since all the constables were men, it was inconvenient for them to search women. Jiang Xinbai had no choice but to humble himself and ask Jiang Suoluo to conduct the search. Jiang Suoluo, feeling proud, found her brother more agreeable when he was humble.

When Jiang Suoluo searched Yan Nanxing, Yan Nanxing felt that the medicinal smell on her was very familiar and realized she was also a female doctor. Everyone was thoroughly searched except for Manager Cao's people. Although Manager Cao didn't refuse, Yan Nanxing saw him throw something into the furnace. Jiang Xinbai didn't find anything in the search but didn't give up. He smelled something strange in the furnace and found another token inside.

Yan Nanxing felt helpless; on the full moon night, she was about to transform. Manager Cao was taken down, and Shang Bieli began to fight Jiang Xinbai for him, leading to a standoff and a fight breaking out on the spot. Jiang Xinbai took Manager Cao away but then ordered an extension of the Phantom Market's lockdown. Seeing this, Yan Nanxing couldn't hold back any longer and called out to Jiang Xinbai.

Recognizing her voice, Jiang Xinbai forbade her from leaving.

Yan Nanxing coerced Jiang Xinbai into the house. Yan Nanxing kept trying to get Jiang Xinbai to leave, fearing her transformation secret would be discovered. However, she inadvertently opened a secret room, and Jiang Xinbai found it filled with Zornia herb. Yan Nanxing, exhausted, transformed into a different person in an instant. Jiang Xinbai was shocked to hear her voice change but knew the person in front of him was still Yan Nanxing.

He covered her head with a cloth and escorted her out of the Phantom Market. Once outside, Yan Nanxing ran off, leaving Jiang Xinbai behind, but accidentally left behind a notebook documenting her transformations. Jiang Suoluo and Shang Bieli pursued them, with Shang Bieli still harboring significant hostility towards Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Xinbai warned Jiang Suoluo to stay away from Shang Bieli, remarking that some people are not as simple as they seem.

However, in Jiang Suoluo’s eyes, her brother had never cared about her and didn’t understand her, let alone others. Yan Nanxing was startled by her own transformed face and found Jiang Xinbai’s reaction odd, as he could still call her by her name. Yan Nanxing decided to settle in for the long haul, renting a courtyard from Madam Bao to live in. Needing to eat while searching for her little brother, she also rented a shop to do business.

The contact person was dead, and the stock manager had fled, but it wasn’t a total loss since Manager Cao would surely help them find a breakthrough. Yao Qianshu was very curious why Yan Nanxing had held Jiang Xinbai hostage the previous night. Since learning Jiang Xinbai’s identity, she seemed like a different person, not realizing she had literally become someone else.

Yan Nanxing finally realized her sketchbook was missing and hurried back to the Phantom Market to look for it, but found no trace of it. Jiang Xinbai had carefully examined the sketchbook and figured out Yan Nanxing’s secret, thus instructing Yao Qianshu to investigate her whereabouts. In a teahouse private room, Shang Bieli and Jiang Suoluo met. It turned out Shang Bieli was also secretly running the teahouse.

Shang Bieli suspected there was something unusual about the relationship between Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai and intended to find dirt on Jiang Xinbai. Shang Bieli believed that Gaya's death was connected to Jiang Xinbai, but Jiang Suoluo thought he was being too hasty. Perhaps his unspoken feelings for Gaya had clouded his judgment. Five days passed, and Yan Nanxing had not transformed back. Jiang Xinbai had already found her.

She claimed to be Yan Nanxing’s cousin, but Jiang Xinbai, knowing she was actually Yan Nanxing, threatened to wait there all night. Yan Nanxing couldn’t understand how Jiang Xinbai always knew she was Yan Nanxing. Jiang Xinbai entered her room and confirmed her identity just as Yan Nanxing suddenly transformed and burst in to stop him. Despite her explanations, Jiang Xinbai had already discovered her secret.

Frustrated, Yan Nanxing accused him of being face-blind and showed him her sketchbook, asking him to identify which one was her. Jiang Xinbai immediately recognized her because she was on the first page of another sketchbook. Regarding the matter with the He Man, Jiang Xinbai always wanted to make amends with Yan Nanxing, but she kept him at arm’s length. He hadn’t done anything wrong; his attempts to make amends were just to ease his own conscience.

Led by Madam Bao, Yan Nanxing arrived at Ruyi Lane. Since there was no beauty salon in the capital, Yan Nanxing generously rented a shop, deciding to open a one-of-a-kind beauty salon. In the middle of the night, Jiang Xinbai went to Yan Nanxing’s house again and overheard her and Madam Bao inquiring about the people brought back by the capital’s soldiers. Regardless of how they asked, the answer was always the Chief Constable's Office.

Yan Nanxing had come to the capital looking for someone. Could it be related to her transformation?

Yan Nanxing rented the shop and opened a store called "Hua Xiang Rong. " The shop had areas for tea, grooming, and other services. On the opening day, it attracted many women and sold a variety of cosmetics. A spy discovered that Yan Nanxing had opened a grooming shop and felt something was off, so he reported it to Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Xinbai felt helpless but praised the spy for his work.

He then confidently stated that Yan Nanxing had no connection to Zornia herb and that there was no need to keep an eye on her. Yao Qianshu originally planned to host a dinner to reconcile with Yan Nanxing but was scolded by Jiang Xinbai. However, Yao Qianshu could see that Jiang Xinbai was only being stubborn. Madam Bao bought many items from Yan Nanxing’s shop, and Yan Nanxing's persuasive words helped sell even the expensive products.

Yan Nanxing racked her brain trying to figure out how Jiang Xinbai had guessed her intentions. She decided she needed to destroy the picture album quickly to avoid leaving any evidence. Late at night, Yan Nanxing went to Jiang Xinbai’s residence, remembering the address before tearing it up. As expected, there were no servants at Jiang Xinbai’s house, and Yan Nanxing speculated that he was hiding something. Jiang Xinbai noticed Yan Nanxing's presence and confronted her.

When he realized it was her, he let her go. Every day, there were long lines in front of Hua Xiang Rong. Yan Nanxing took the opportunity to learn from Madam Bao that there was tension between the Jinwu Guard and the General Capture Bureau. Yan Nanxing sent Jiang Xinbai a letter, asking to meet her at Twelve Music House that night.

Jiang Xinbai would surely know her intentions since the Twelve Music House was a frequent spot for the Jinwu Guard. Inside the Twelve Music House, Yan Nanxing disguised herself as a performer for the night. She accidentally saw a woman dressed in frontier tribe clothing, saying it was Shang Bieli's favorite performance. She peeked at Shang Bieli and heard him calling out Gaya's name, realizing he secretly liked Gaya! Yan Nanxing quickly changed clothes and went on stage as a performer.

Jiang Xinbai arrived and sat below the stage. Yan Nanxing, knowing he had a keen sense of smell, used the same fragrance as the other performers, but Jiang Xinbai still recognized her instantly. Yan Nanxing felt a bit defiant. Although he recognized her, it didn’t mean he wasn’t face-blind. Yan Nanxing was there to retrieve the picture album from Jiang Xinbai, who told her to come to the General Capture Bureau to get it the next day.

Yan Nanxing refused, not wanting him to visit her store. During their conversation, Jiang Xinbai detected the scent of Zornia herb on a passing performer and suspected someone might be hiding the herb in a second-floor private room. As Yan Nanxing made sarcastic comments, Jiang Xinbai went to the second floor, where it turned out Shang Bieli was indeed involved in something shady. Shang Bieli appeared before them, and the two glared at each other, ready to fight.

Yan Nanxing created chaos by releasing a chicken, disrupting the tense atmosphere. She flattered Shang Bieli while dragging Jiang Xinbai away. Jiang Suoluo pondered the relationship between Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing in her carriage when Liu Ruoqian suddenly fell from the sky, holding a cat. It turned out he had fallen while rescuing the cat. Unable to compensate for the expensive carriage, he offered Jiang Suoluo a flower instead, saying its language meant good luck.

Jiang Suoluo thought for a moment before tossing the flower away. Liu Ruoqian, from a family of generations of slaves, was advised by his parents to abandon his dreams. But Liu Ruoqian firmly believed he could escape slavery through knowledge. Hua Xiang Rong issued a recruitment notice, sparking widespread discussion. Jiang Xinbai visited Yan Nanxing to return a favor, offering to help her find people. However, he knew nothing about the person she was searching for, a young man.

Liu Ruoqian applied for the job with the recruitment notice but was rejected by Yan Nanxing because he was unsuitable.

Liu Ruoqian did not get discouraged and followed Yan Nanxing to Hua Xiang Rong. Although the shop only hired women, he believed he could do a better job than the female workers. Liu Ruoqian charmed the ladies present, leaving them captivated. Despite Yan Nanxing's firm principles, Liu Ruoqian offered to work without pay during the trial period, which made Yan Nanxing hesitate. Jiang Xinbai created a commotion outside the crowd, and Yan Nanxing quickly pulled him outside to talk.

Jiang Xinbai advised her not to hire Liu Ruoqian until he had investigated him, but Yan Nanxing's rebellious nature was stirred. She decided to hire Liu Ruoqian, which made Jiang Xinbai's face turn green with frustration. Jiang Xinbai had someone watch Liu Ruoqian every day. One day, he summoned Liu Ruoqian for questioning.

Liu Ruoqian answered flawlessly but eventually revealed the relationship between Shang Bieli and Manager Cao with a sincere look, making Jiang Xinbai think he might be an honest person. Tong Saier ordered an expensive meal at the restaurant and, when asked to pay, lightly pushed the waiter, causing him to fall. Mr. Lan decided to let her stay and work there. Jiang Suoluo arrived at the teahouse, and the manager quickly assigned Tong Saier to be her guard.

Meanwhile, Yan Nanxing found out about Longxin Teahouse, another place besides Ghost Market to gather information, and today was the day the informant would arrive. Yan Nanxing went to Longxin Teahouse as instructed and displayed all the signs. Sure enough, an accountant approached her. He uttered four words and demanded fifty taels of gold for the reading, which infuriated Yan Nanxing and drew a crowd. Jiang Suoluo intervened, preventing the manager from handling the situation.

She brought Tong Saier to meet Yan Nanxing and asked about her relationship with Jiang Xinbai. Realizing the strained relationship between Jiang Xinbai and Jiang Suoluo, Yan Nanxing silently mocked Jiang Xinbai for even offending his own sister. Yan Nanxing tried to slip away, but Tong Saier, whose portrait was destroyed, immediately chased after her with the intent to kill. Shang Bieli arrived just in time to stop the chaos.

Yan Nanxing, fearing they would be taken away by Shang Bieli, claimed they were just fooling around. Tong Saier, wanting to see if Shang Bieli was her long-lost brother, tried to remove his mask, but he fiercely grabbed her wrist and took her away along with the entire province of Yunnan. In prison, Yan Nanxing was distressed while Tong Saier, holding her brother's portrait, demanded compensation. Yan Nanxing, unable to shake her off, agreed to help restore the portrait.

Still worried about how to get out, Yao Qianshu came to bail her out. Tong Saier insisted on going with her, leaving Yao Qianshu no choice but to take them both. Shang Bieli, hearing about their release, came to gloat in front of Jiang Xinbai, only to be sharply rebuked by Tong Saier, leaving him speechless. Tong Saier continued to follow Yan Nanxing closely, no matter what.

Jiang Xinbai persistently followed, advising Yan Nanxing not to provoke people she shouldn't, as he couldn't always be by her side. Back home, Yan Nanxing found Liu Ruoqian teaching Tong Saier to read. Having grown up in the countryside, she was familiar with plants and spices, so Yan Nanxing decided to let her work there. However, Tong Saier still owed money to Longxin Teahouse. Yan Nanxing had to pay off her debt and prepare food for her.

Tong Saier, worried about the danger from offending the teahouse owner, and Liu Ruoqian teamed up to persuade Yan Nanxing to seek help from Jiang Xinbai. But Yan Nanxing overheard that Shang Bieli had a mysterious past and suspected he might be her long-lost brother. She snuck into Shang Bieli's house at night. Tong Saier also went there to find her brother, and the two, dressed in night clothes, caused a commotion in Shang Bieli's residence. Tong Saier managed to escape, but Yan Nanxing was captured.

Yan Nanxing, dressed in night clothes, was caught by Shang Bieli. No matter how she tried to explain, he didn't believe her, so she could only smile and tell lies. Jiang Xinbai received news that Nan Jifeng had fled in fear of punishment. He guessed it wouldn't be long before a report reached the emperor. As expected, during the morning court, someone accused Nan Jifeng of accepting bribes.

Jiang Xinbai was troubled and temporarily assigned Yao Qianshu to investigate the matter, fearing Shang Bieli might take action upon hearing the news. Tong Saier sought help from Jiang Xinbai, suspecting that the person who climbed roofs with her last night might be Yan Nanxing, who hadn't shown up at the shop today. Jiang Xinbai immediately rode to the Jinwu Guard. At this moment, Shang Bieli had forced Yan Nanxing to play a role and perform with a real knife.

Yan Nanxing couldn't figure out what he wanted but had no choice but to comply under duress. Jiang Xinbai arrived, surprised to see Yan Nanxing in such attire. Shang Bieli's sword was aimed at him the next second, accusing Jiang Xinbai of causing the deaths of his sister-in-law and brother, Nan Jifeng. Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing were speechless.

Tong Saier hurriedly explained that it was she who was with Shang Bieli last night, just wanting to see if he was her fiancé. Years ago, Tong Saier's mother had a difficult childbirth and was saved by a boy about ten years old. She promised Tong Saier to him and later gave her his portrait. Shang Bieli denied it, but seeing Tong Saier's disbelief, he took her inside to show his face.

Outside, Yan Nanxing quickly bandaged Jiang Xinbai's wound, which warmed his heart. Shang Bieli had no nose. Jiang Xinbai explained that five years ago, Shang Bieli, while patrolling the frontier with Nan Jifeng, was captured and lost his nose. Yan Nanxing realized Shang Bieli wasn't her long-lost brother. Shang Bieli, who had been a heroic figure, had changed drastically since then. Yan Nanxing and Tong Saier realized they had mistaken him for someone else.

Jiang Xinbai, filled with jealousy, told Tong Saier to go to the General Bureau for registration. Yan Nanxing quickly advised her to dress nicely before going, but Jiang Xinbai saw through her intentions. Five years ago, after losing his nose, Shang Bieli felt his dignity was gone and his personality changed. Gaya sent him a gift, the mask he now wears, which made people remember him only as an invincible hero.

Jiang Suoluo discussed Nan Jifeng's case with Jiang Zhiyi, expressing concern that Jiang Xinbai might be implicated, having just returned from the southern barbarians. They also mentioned Yan Nanxing's involvement in Jiang Xinbai's abduction at the Ghost Market. Yan Nanxing, dressed as Tong Saier, tried to test Jiang Xinbai, but he recognized her instantly. Despite his bandaged arm still bleeding, he only remembered her bandaging him.

Yan Nanxing asked how he could still recognize her, and Jiang Xinbai, feeling helpless, replied that no matter what she wore or how she changed her hairstyle, she was still her. When Jiang Xinbai asked about the excellence of the person she was looking for, Yan Nanxing didn't answer and teased him for being jealous. Tong Saier forced Shang Bieli to reveal his scars, planning to apologize properly.

Yan Nanxing agreed to take Tong Saier in, who swore never to deceive anyone again. When questioned, Yan Nanxing hesitated. Shang Bieli came to Hua Xiang Rong to ask Yan Nanxing about Gaya. Yan Nanxing drew a portrait of Gaya for him. He repeatedly asked if Gaya's death was related to Jiang Xinbai, and Yan Nanxing firmly denied it, saying Jiang Xinbai did nothing wrong.

Shang Bieli, believing she was Jiang Xinbai's ally, remained skeptical, but Yan Nanxing denied any allegiance. Shang Bieli sighed in relief, stating his conflict with Jiang Xinbai was far from over. Jiang Zhiyi mentioned Nan Jifeng's case, noting that the emperor was wary of Jiang Xinbai and summoned him overnight to discuss the Zornia herb investigation.

Jiang Suoluo often spoke about Jiang Xinbai, but Jiang Zhiyi advised her to focus on her students, hoping Jiang Suoluo would become as excellent as herself. As for Yan Nanxing, Jiang Zhiyi had other plans. Jiang Zhiyi sent people to Hua Xiang Rong, accusing her shop of adding poison to the products and forcing her to leave the capital.

Yan Nanxing realized they were acting on someone else's orders, but the other party directly summoned the guards of the Prince of Yuejiang's mansion to take her away.

Yan Nanxing was brought before Jiang Zhiyi. Facing the Wang Nv, Yan Nanxing showed no fear and cleverly answered her questions, claiming she was Jiang Xinbai's spy and that the kidnapping at the Ghost Market was just for show. As Jiang Zhiyi grew angry, Jiang Xinbai rushed in to help Yan Nanxing, explaining that she had helped him many times in investigating the Zornia herb.

Jiang Zhiyi quickly calmed down and even asked Yan Nanxing to let her try some of her beauty cream, her attitude changing swiftly. Jiang Xinbai guessed that Jiang Suoluo had been stirring up trouble in front of Jiang Zhiyi, so he went to her room to warn her. He told Jiang Suoluo that even if she had grievances against him, she shouldn't involve others.

Jiang Suoluo was unconvinced, feeling that Jiang Xinbai had always ignored her, not realizing that Yan Nanxing held such importance to him. Yan Nanxing managed to please Jiang Zhiyi, giving her a new product she had created before leaving. Back at Hua Xiang Rong, Jiang Xinbai followed her. Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier noticed and immediately left the space for them.

Jiang Xinbai, worried that Yan Nanxing might have been frightened today, came to apologize, but for her, making friends was always beneficial. Today was the seventh day of Gaya's passing, and Yan Nanxing held a memorial, hoping Gaya would bless Nan Jifeng with safety and help Jiang Xinbai uncover the truth and seek revenge soon.

Liu Ruoqian discovered a corpse in a well early in the morning, and when Jiang Xinbai arrived, he found it was Shopkeeper Cao, with tea leaves in his throat, the kind only found at the Longxin Tea House, exclusively provided by Shang Bieli. Nearby, there was a blood-written death note from Shopkeeper Cao. Jiang Xinbai asked Liu Ruoqian to identify Shopkeeper Cao's handwriting.

Liu Ruoqian confirmed it but raised a doubt: Shopkeeper Cao was barely literate and wouldn't have known how to write "tea leaves. " Moreover, a person like Shopkeeper Cao wouldn't easily commit suicide. In the palace, the emperor rewarded the General Bureau and Jiang Xinbai with the highest honor of the seven seals. Soon, Lord Lu invited Jiang Xinbai to celebrate, but Jiang Xinbai changed the venue to the Longxin Tea House.

Jiang Suoluo, sent to investigate in the southern barbarians' land, discovered that Jiang Xinbai had married there, with Nan Jifeng and his wife as witnesses. Jiang Suoluo speculated that the bride might be Yan Nanxing. Shang Bieli reminded her that this matter was significant since a marriage at the Yuejiang Palace required the emperor's permission. During their conversation, they saw Jiang Xinbai arrive at the Longxin Tea House.

Jiang Xinbai, intending to test the Longxin Tea House, made Lord Lu uncomfortable by mentioning his father's death. Jiang Xinbai, displeased, got up to leave but was stopped by Shang Bieli, who invited him for a private tea session. Jiang Xinbai asked about Biji Mingyue again, and Shang Bieli explained that it was produced in Kunlun Mountain to help Gaya's people. He then asked Jiang Xinbai about the events in the southern barbarians' land.

Jiang Xinbai straightforwardly answered that Gaya died protecting Nan Jifeng. Yan Nanxing brought many beauty creams for Jiang Zhiyi, and Jiang Suoluo joined in. Jiang Zhiyi urged them to get along, stating that Yan Nanxing was now her friend. Jiang Zhiyi inquired about Jiang Xinbai secretly marrying in the southern barbarians' land. Hearing this, Yan Nanxing tried to slip away, while Jiang Suoluo gave her a knowing look.

Jiang Zhiyi, however, had no intention of breaking them up, fearing Jiang Xinbai might end up lonely for life given his temperament. Jiang Suoluo then suggested that Yan Nanxing investigate the identity of the woman. With Jiang Zhiyi's backing, Yan Nanxing couldn't refuse.

After a few days apart, Yan Nanxing and Jiang Zhi had become friends, and Jiang Suoluo's hostility toward her had diminished significantly. In the carriage, Jiang Suoluo and Yan Nanxing each harbored their own thoughts. That night, Yan Nanxing went to Jiang Xinbai's residence, but no one answered her knocks. Yan Nanxing simply opened the door herself to find Jiang Xinbai chopping vegetables and cooking. He mentioned that someone had invited him to dinner that evening, but since the meal wasn't satisfactory, he had to cook for himself at home. Yan Nanxing told Jiang Xinbai about Jiang Suoluo finding out about his marriage in He Man, but Jiang Xinbai remained indifferent. Seeing the table full of dishes Jiang Xinbai had prepared, Yan Nanxing felt very touched, as it had been a long time since she had eaten home-cooked food. Jiang Xinbai felt the same way; it had been a long time since he had cooked for his family. As Yan Nanxing ate heartily, she chastised Jiang Xinbai for deceiving her. Jiang Xinbai looked gloomy, knowing that if he could do it over, he would never have done it.

Jiang Suoluo was officially appointed as the sacrificial wine, but the students were quite disobedient toward her. Liu Ruoqian didn't think so; he noticed that Jiang Suoluo and the woman in the carriage looked alike but had different temperaments. Only Jiang Suoluo's father attended her appointment ceremony, which made her a bit sad. Her father handed over a gift from Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Suoluo was still angry, as people said she was a daughter of a concubine and that her father had married his sister-in-law. Her father explained that when Lord Xi was exiled, the Yue Jiang Mansion had to choose another husband for Jiang Zhi to show they had no more ties with him. But no one dared to marry her, so he bravely proposed. They could remember the same person, which was the basis of their feelings over the years. Jiang Suoluo was still resentful; she had always tried to please Jiang Xinbai, but he acted as if he didn't see her. Her grandfather seemed to favor her, but it was just to motivate Jiang Xinbai.

Someone recommended Jiang Xinbai to go to Jiangzhou, which was a disguised demotion. His grandfather and Jiang Zhi received the news in advance to help him out, which caused them to miss Jiang Suoluo's ceremony. The news of Jiang Xinbai's marriage had already spread like wildfire in the capital. Shang Bieli had ulterior motives. Tong Saier came with items from her hometown to apologize to Shang Bieli, indicating that she could fulfill three wishes for him. Tong Saier made some nonsensical remarks and left, and Shang Bieli's expression became complicated. Jiang Suoluo reminded him that Tong Saier was Yan Nanxing's person.

Jiang Xinbai went to Hua Xiangrong to find Yan Nanxing, only to be told that she had been picked up by a carriage. Jiang Xinbai figured it must have been Jiang Zhi. On his way out, he heard a man buying clothes for his wife, so he entered the shop, intending to buy an outfit for Yan Nanxing. Jiang Zhi's birthday was approaching, and she hoped Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai would co-host her flowing banquet, with the purpose of having Yan Nanxing find out who Jiang Xinbai had married. Jiang Zhi knew that the marriage between Jiang Xinbai and Jiang Suoluo had to satisfy the royal family, or she would have to make Jiang Suoluo disappear quietly from the world.

Jiang Xinbai gifted Yan Nanxing a luxurious dress, but she couldn't understand why he would give her clothes out of the blue. Was it to recognize her? Jiang Zhi's flowing banquet was held at Hua Xiangrong. Jiang Xinbai was unhappy when he saw that Yan Nanxing wasn't wearing the dress he had given her. Jiang Suoluo also came, saying she was there to help but kept testing their relationship on purpose, even publicly asking Jiang Xinbai about his bride. Jiang Xinbai warned her repeatedly to stop, and only then did Jiang Suoluo relent temporarily.

Liu Ruoqian went to serve the dishes and asked Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai to help him prepare. Jiang Suoluo was upset to hear that Yan Nanxing had eaten Jiang Xinbai's cooking. In private, Jiang Suoluo asked Yan Nanxing if she really had no other thoughts about Jiang Xinbai, as marrying him would be considered a high match. Yan Nanxing scoffed, surprised that the first female sacrificial wine of the dynasty was so narrow-minded.

Liu Ruoqian reminded Yan Nanxing that there was a bloodstain on the back of her skirt. Yan Nanxing was horrified and hid, fearing she would transform and make a fool of herself in public. Jiang Xinbai noticed her situation just in time and escorted her away again.

Returning home, Yan Nanxing breathed a sigh of relief. She thought it was her menstrual cycle but realized it was just a stain. Yan Nanxing had been very scared earlier because she never knew what she would transform into: sometimes an old person, sometimes a man, sometimes a child. Jiang Xinbai hadn't expected her to admit it, and Yan Nanxing hadn't expected to seek Jiang Xinbai's help.

Jiang Xinbai reassured her that no matter what she turned into, he would recognize her. Yan Nanxing, though skeptical, chose to believe him. Jiang Xinbai suggested that the boy Yan Nanxing was looking for might be controlling his transformation to avoid meeting her. This angered Yan Nanxing, who almost drove him away. Jiang Xinbai quickly confessed that he was face-blind and related to the loneliness Yan Nanxing described, which was why he wanted to protect her.

Jiang Suoluo was convinced that Yan Nanxing was almost certainly the He Man bride, so she broke into Hua Xiangrong at midnight to find evidence but was discovered by Liu Ruoqian. Liu Ruoqian mistakenly thought she was a performing dancer, which infuriated Jiang Suoluo. She mistook him for a guest. Before leaving, Liu Ruoqian gave Jiang Suoluo a flower, telling her not to be angry and to smile more.

When Yan Nanxing was bored, she wondered what it felt like to be face-blind. She went out wearing a veil to observe the people on the street, but she couldn't fully understand Jiang Xinbai's perspective. Jiang Xinbai, watching from above, was stunned. Was Yan Nanxing experiencing his world? Jiang Xinbai thoroughly investigated the gambling house, where Nan Jifeng was hiding among the shop assistants. Shang Bieli rushed over to stop Jiang Xinbai from taking Li Wufang but failed.

After Li Wufang was captured, his grandfather Li Da and Lord Lu came to rescue him, so Jiang Xinbai released him. Jiang Xinbai's grandfather, who knew Jiang Xinbai had been seeking revenge for his father all these years, also arrived. When Lord Xi was exiled to Yazhou, no matter how much his grandfather tried to persuade him, Jiang Xinbai, at only five years old, said he was Lord Xi's son.

Now, he still had the same determination to ensure those responsible received their due punishment and to eliminate Zornia herb entirely. Yan Biqing went on a study tour to the local government school. Upon returning to the Hanlin Academy, he eagerly expressed his longing for Jiang Suoluo. The two had previously made a lifelong promise to each other, and Yan Biqing couldn't wait to let their elders know, but Jiang Suoluo said the time wasn't right yet.

Tong Saier got lost on the street and encountered Shang Bieli on horseback, who kindly sent her back. Shang Bieli advised Tong Saier not to stay in Hua Xiangrong, but Tong Saier had already considered Yan Nanxing as family and was willing to stay there. Jiang Zhi asked Jiang Xinbai if he had secretly married. Jiang Xinbai admitted it but said they had secretly divorced. His life was turbulent, perhaps not suitable for a woman seeking stability.

Yan Nanxing lowered her head upon hearing this. They encountered Yan Biqing on the road, and Jiang Xinbai couldn't recognize his voice, so Yan Nanxing helped out. Jiang Xinbai escorted Yan Nanxing home, surprised she didn't take advantage of his situation earlier. He hoped they could protect each other. Jiang Xinbai needed to witness Yan Nanxing's transformation process to know how to protect her.

Yan Nanxing was at a loss, as she mostly transformed at night or even in her sleep. Jiang Xinbai, holding Yan Nanxing's hand on the swing, suggested they sleep together so he could see for himself.

Whenever Yan Nanxing thought of Jiang Xinbai's words "sleep with me," she would become dazed, unable to understand what he meant. After some analysis from Madam Bao, Yan Nanxing concluded that Jiang Xinbai was a lecher and a rogue. Yan Nanxing's secret phrase with her childhood friend was "Are you cold?" So now, whenever Yan Nanxing met a guest, she would ask this question, even having Tong Saier ask on her behalf.

Yao Qianshu reported that Nan Jifeng had already fled to the southern six states and had made arrangements in He Man. Someone was also inquiring about Jiang Xinbai's marriage in He Man. Jiang Suoluo received a portrait and was surprised to find that the bride wasn't Yan Nanxing. As she was lost in thought, Liu Ruoqian came by again. He thought Jiang Suoluo was a dancer there, and since she had no customers, he gave her money to chat with him. However, he didn't realize she wasn't a dancer but a distinguished guest. Jiang Suoluo wasn't angry; instead, she gave him a large sum of money, asking him to perform for her and support her.

Grandfather, infuriated by Jiang Xinbai's situation, stormed over to find Jiang Zhi, claiming that the heir of the Yuejiang Palace must have the Jiang family's interests at heart. Jiang Zhi, worried about Jiang Xinbai's future, took the initiative to seek a reliable marriage for him, even disregarding whether Jiang Xinbai would join the bride's family. Lord Pei initially refused but eventually agreed to let the two young people meet due to Jiang Zhi's insistence.

Jiang Zhi told Yan Nanxing about this. Lord Pei's third daughter was a good match, and she hoped Yan Nanxing would help facilitate this marriage. Yan Nanxing refused repeatedly, but Jiang Zhi held her hand, saying they were like sisters and Jiang Xinbai was like her nephew. Yan Nanxing reluctantly agreed, feeling as though she had swallowed a fly. Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier went to the street to distribute flyers, and Liu Ruoqian was very successful, whereas Tong Saier's efforts weren't as effective.

Late at night, Yan Nanxing brought a basket of vegetables, saying that she had eaten his food last time and was here to return the favor. Since it was late, she made it into a midnight snack. Jiang Xinbai, although feeling that her cooking didn't taste like real food, ate it with great enjoyment. Yan Nanxing's real purpose for coming that night was to persuade Jiang Xinbai to go on a blind date. Jiang Xinbai naturally refused, but when Yan Nanxing said, "For our sake," he suddenly changed his mind.

Jiang Suoluo was on the street when a group of children asked her to help retrieve a kite from a tree. Jiang Suoluo wouldn't climb the tree for a mere kite and generously gave them some silver, but they insisted on the kite. Jiang Suoluo had no choice but to climb up, but she slipped and fell, only to be caught by Liu Ruoqian. Not knowing where her home was, Liu Ruoqian took the unconscious Jiang Suoluo to his house to rest. Upon waking, Jiang Suoluo instinctively wanted to leave but was persuaded to stay for a meal by Liu Ruoqian's parents. While in the courtyard, Jiang Suoluo noticed they were from a lowly background, yet Liu Ruoqian's family wasn't self-conscious about it. Jiang Suoluo felt happy integrating with their family and even shared her real name with them.

Yan Nanxing arranged for Jiang Xinbai and Pei Yaoyao to meet at Hua Xiangrong. Pei Yaoyao dressed up very glamorously, but Jiang Xinbai mischievously mistook Madam Bao for Pei Yaoyao. Yan Nanxing quickly pulled him aside and scolded him, telling him to appease Pei Yaoyao. She then arranged for them to meet in a private room. Tong Saier could tell that Yan Nanxing was concerned, so she pulled her to eavesdrop.

Pei Yaoyao suddenly started hiccuping, feeling extremely embarrassed. She asked Jiang Xinbai what kind of woman he liked. Jiang Xinbai coldly replied, "I don't care about looks," then smiled and described someone exactly like Yan Nanxing. Pei Yaoyao understood that he didn't like her and left.

Tong Saier realized that Jiang Xinbai was describing Yan Nanxing: intelligent, elegant, and heroic. Just as Pei Yaoyao left, Jiang Zhi stormed in to question Jiang Xinbai.

Jiang Zhi's unexpected arrival forced Yan Nanxing to close early. Jiang Xinbai was too willful, and no matter what, Jiang Zhi wanted to ensure his second marriage. He had offended many people by investigating the Zornia herb within the court, and if anything happened in the future, she wouldn't be able to protect him, so she needed Lord Pei's help.

However, Jiang Xinbai retorted that his father had also gotten into trouble and was exiled, and his marriage didn't save him! Hearing this, Jiang Zhi furiously slapped him, startling Yan Nanxing from a distance. Jiang Zhi left disappointed, and Jiang Xinbai's eyes reddened. Yan Nanxing approached to comfort him but couldn't find the right words. At Li Wufang's house, Nan Jifeng, disguised as a servant, secretly listened to Li Wufang. After being discovered, he sought out Yan Nanxing.

Yan Nanxing sent Tong Saier to summon him late at night, and the two finally met. Jiang Xinbai had been searching for him, not realizing he was hiding right under his nose. Yan Nanxing took in Nan Jifeng and warned Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier to keep it a secret. Nan Jifeng spread rumors that he had fled to the southern six states to mislead others.

He didn't tell Jiang Xinbai because the monitoring room suspected Jiang Xinbai's involvement and sent people to He Man. However, he later realized it might have been the work of Lord Li and the Ministry of Personnel. Nan Jifeng wanted to meet the Emperor but couldn't find an opportunity. While undercover at the Li house, Jiang Xinbai had seen him but didn't recognize him.

Nan Jifeng wanted to see Shang Bieli, but Jiang Xinbai said Shang Bieli might be involved with the Zornia herb, though Nan Jifeng trusted him deeply, considering him a brother-in-arms. Yan Nanxing also advised Nan Jifeng to keep his identity hidden for now. Nan Jifeng wanted to stay at her place, but both Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai refused. Yan Nanxing suggested that he stay at Yuejiang Palace, as Jiang Zhi would never betray Jiang Xinbai.

Upon arriving at Yuejiang Palace, Jiang Zhi agreed to keep Nan Jifeng safe. Jiang Xinbai told Jiang Zhi not to let Jiang Suoluo or Grandfather know, especially Jiang Suoluo, as she was friends with Shang Bieli. However, Jiang Suoluo was eavesdropping and burst in, angrily declaring that as Shang Bieli's friend, she wouldn't betray him and could distinguish between right and wrong. Mother and son soon reconciled, and Jiang Xinbai and Jiang Zhi made up quickly. Today was Gaya's birthday.

Nan Jifeng set up an altar to pay respects. Seeing this, Jiang Suoluo brought him two jars of good wine. While Nan Jifeng was drunk, Jiang Suoluo tried to probe about Jiang Xinbai's marriage in He Man. Nan Jifeng, unguarded, revealed everything, and Jiang Zhi overheard. Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai knelt in the hall as Jiang Zhi scolded them and then drove everyone out except for Yan Nanxing.

Jiang Xinbai knew this was Jiang Suoluo's doing and argued with her outside. Jiang Zhi ordered Yan Nanxing to close Hua Xiangrong and leave the capital. Yan Nanxing resisted, and Jiang Xinbai rushed in to stop the situation, but Jiang Zhi didn't relent, saying she had a hundred ways to make Yan Nanxing close Hua Xiangrong and leave the capital. Jiang Zhi sent a group of men to cause trouble at Hua Xiangrong, forcing Yan Nanxing to comply.

Hearing this, Jiang Zhi was furious and had Jiang Suoluo handle the matter. Jiang Suoluo bought the building and Hua Xiangrong, demanding Yan Nanxing move out within a day. Although angry, Yan Nanxing could only curse a few times. Liu Ruoqian wrote three complaints to file, while Tong Saier wanted to sneak into Yuejiang Palace immediately. Yan Nanxing gave them money to sustain themselves for a while, promising to reopen Hua Xiangrong.

Jiang Xinbai rushed over upon hearing the news, urging her to stay at his place temporarily, promising to give her an explanation after this period. Days passed without any news from Yan Nanxing, making Jiang Zhi somewhat disappointed. Jiang Suoluo hoped Jiang Zhi would fulfill one request: to arrange a meeting between Shang Bieli and Nan Jifeng.

Nan Jifeng told Shang Bieli that Jiang Xinbai was not the one who killed Gaya and asked if he had indeed dealt with the Zornia herb. Shang Bieli was furious and said he would investigate if anyone in the Jinwu Guard was involved with the Zornia herb, but for now, Nan Jifeng had to go with him. Even though Hua Xiangrong was closed, Yan Nanxing continued to maintain her clientele.

Despite Jiang Xinbai's offer to support her, Yan Nanxing didn't take it seriously. Yao Qianshu reported that Shang Bieli had taken Nan Jifeng away, prompting Jiang Xinbai to visit the Hanlin Department at night. Worried, Yan Nanxing secretly followed him. Jiang Xinbai didn't understand why Jiang Suoluo was helping outsiders, while Jiang Suoluo claimed she was worried Yan Nanxing would badmouth Yuejiang Palace. But to Jiang Xinbai, he could trust Yan Nanxing unconditionally.

Jiang Xinbai and Jiang Suoluo had a big argument, leaving Jiang Xinbai deeply disappointed in her.

Jiang Xinbai found that Yan Nanxing had still followed him out and felt somewhat reproachful, but Yan Nanxing was genuinely worried about him. Jiang Xinbai's gaze gradually softened. Back home, Yan Nanxing tried to resolve the conflict between Jiang Xinbai and Jiang Suoluo. For her, family was most important, and everything else was secondary. Despite Jiang Xinbai's family always causing her grievances, she still spoke up for them.

However, Yan Nanxing didn't feel aggrieved; she was well-fed, warmly clothed, and living well now. Yan Nanxing took Jiang Xinbai out to relax, having previously paid the Persian witch to cheer him up. But when she brought Jiang Xinbai there, the Persian witch suggested they get married, which unexpectedly lifted Jiang Xinbai's spirits. Yan Nanxing mistakenly thought he was unhappy. Jiang Xinbai, hiding his smile, asked her if her feelings for her little brother were of gratitude or affection.

Yan Nanxing quickly clarified that it was gratitude. They played around in the ghost market, but were witnessed by Li Wufang. Shang Bieli brought people to the Twelve Music House to search for the Zornia herb and encountered Tong Saier, who was working odd jobs there. Tong Saier claimed she could smell the Zornia herb; her nose was very sharp!

Li Wufang was nervous, not expecting Tong Saier to actually find the Zornia herb, which made Li Wufang furious and injured Li Wufang. Someone in the Jinwu Guard had touched the Zornia herb, but Shang Bieli only discovered it today and was very frustrated.

Tong Saier said she needed to find another odd job, but Shang Bieli wanted her to stay at his residence to work, which she flatly refused because she didn't get along with Jiang Xinbai, which would trouble Yan Nanxing. Shang Bieli simply used the peach wood chip she gave him, asking Tong Saier to fulfill his first wish and stay. Tong Saier stayed at Shang Bieli's residence, but he didn't expect her to be so unpredictable, causing him much trouble.

The Twelve Music House was shut down, and Lord Li and Lord Lu decided to let Li Wufang take the fall. Shang Bieli decided to report the Zornia herb issue to the emperor. Nan Jifeng remembered Jiang Xinbai saying that it wasn't the right time to report to the emperor, but Shang Bieli wouldn't listen and insisted on going alone to see the emperor. As soon as Shang Bieli left, Nan Jifeng ran to Jiang Xinbai to ask for help.

In the palace, Li Wufang and Lord Li were already accusing Shang Bieli in front of the emperor, and Shang Bieli was furious but had no evidence to refute. At this moment, Jiang Xinbai also received the message to enter the palace to meet the emperor, who ordered him to make Shang Bieli confess within an hour, or he would be killed.

The emperor suspected that Shang Bieli and Nan Jifeng were colluding, so Jiang Xinbai secretly brought Nan Jifeng into the palace to see Shang Bieli. Their lives were now intertwined, and Jiang Xinbai couldn't afford any mistakes in the interrogation. Previously, the Ministry of War's compensation was too little, and the Jinwu Guard had many casualties. Shang Bieli had taken money from Lord Li and Lord Lu to support his brothers, so they were certain Shang Bieli wouldn't speak.

Shang Bieli confessed the truth to Jiang Xinbai and Nan Jifeng. In a moment of desperation, Jiang Xinbai thought of a way and told the emperor that Shang Bieli and Nan Jifeng had set up a sting operation to catch a bigger fish. The emperor, however, challenged Jiang Xinbai. Shang Bieli and Nan Jifeng quickly pleaded for leniency.

Jiang Xinbai knew the emperor didn't really want their lives; he wanted them to uncover the truth within a month or face execution. Leaving the palace, Shang Bieli reluctantly apologized to Jiang Xinbai, who naturally didn't hold it against him. Returning home, Shang Bieli found Tong Saier feeling guilty for not doing anything right. Shang Bieli asked her to cook a meal, and despite the food looking unappealing, it tasted quite good.

Tong Saier inadvertently learned that Shang Bieli had lost his sense of smell, which made her a bit sad. Jiang Xinbai returned home to find Yan Nanxing asleep on the table with a meal prepared. Jiang Xinbai felt very warm; it was nice to have someone cook and wait for him to come home. Shang Bieli and Jiang Xinbai successfully left the palace.

Lord Lu and Lord Li decided to move their business outside the capital to avoid any further mistakes. Li Wufang was very worried that Jiang Xinbai would discover his private dealings and resolved to kill Jiang Xinbai.

Early in the morning, Jiang Xinbai went to find Jiang Suoluo, hoping she would transfer the residence of Hua Xiangrong and Yan Nanxing to him. Jiang Suoluo turned her head away haughtily, and Jiang Xinbai lowered his stance, saying he was there to ask for her help. Jiang Suoluo wanted him to show sincerity; Yan Nanxing had previously mentioned that his cooking was delicious, but she hadn't tasted it yet.

She told him to make the dishes, and only then would she give him the deed. Jiang Xinbai didn't make the two dishes Jiang Suoluo wanted because they were not suitable for someone with a weak stomach like hers. Jiang Suoluo had been like this since childhood, and Jiang Xinbai hoped she would take good care of her health. Jiang Suoluo was somewhat moved, not expecting her brother to still remember.

As promised, Jiang Suoluo gave the deed to Jiang Xinbai and turned to eat the meal he prepared, feeling very happy. Yan Nanxing was at Jiang Xinbai's house, and Tong Saier was at Shang Bieli's house. Unexpectedly, Jiang Xinbai and Shang Bieli had reconciled.

Tong Saier hoped Yan Nanxing could help Shang Bieli repair his nose, but Yan Nanxing felt that his current state might not be due to the mask on his face, but more because of the issues in his heart. Yan Nanxing had to go massage Lady Bao, and Jiang Xinbai wanted to accompany her, but Yan Nanxing felt it would be too conspicuous. They agreed to return early and parted reluctantly.

Jiang Xinbai, Shang Bieli, and Nan Jifeng investigated a case together, but Shang Bieli, with his brawn over brains, often couldn't keep up with the other two's train of thought. Yan Nanxing was knocked out and tied up by Li Wufang, who was targeting Jiang Xinbai. When Jiang Xinbai returned home after preparing a meal, he sent Yao Qianshu to the Bao residence to pick up Yan Nanxing, only to be told that she had left early.

Sensing something was wrong, Jiang Xinbai sent word to notify Shang Bieli, but soon received a note from Li Wufang, instructing him to come alone to the Twelve Music House. Jiang Xinbai went alone to the Twelve Music House, where Yan Nanxing was tied up in the center. Seeing him, Yan Nanxing pretended to quarrel with him to distance herself from him, but Li Wufang quickly realized they were acting.

Jiang Xinbai's visible worry for Yan Nanxing enraged Li Wufang, who demanded Jiang Xinbai kneel and apologize. Yan Nanxing repeatedly called out his name, but Jiang Xinbai still knelt. Li Wufang then ordered his men to beat Jiang Xinbai harshly. Jiang Xinbai did not fight back and told Yan Nanxing to close her eyes. Witnessing all this, Yan Nanxing was devastated.

Jiang Xinbai was stabbed, and just as Li Wufang was about to activate a trap, Jiang Xinbai killed him and saved Yan Nanxing. Shang Bieli arrived and rescued the two of them. Jiang Xinbai was severely injured and bedridden, but he still felt jealous about Yan Nanxing's interactions with her little brother. Yan Nanxing quickly explained that she only sought out her little brother to repay him and had no other feelings.

Yan Nanxing cried uncontrollably, fearing Jiang Xinbai might misunderstand. Li Wufang got what he deserved, and Lords Lu and Li were punished, increasing their hatred for Jiang Xinbai. Half a month later, Jiang Xinbai interrogated Li Wufang. Shang Bieli was determined not to let Li Wufang go, but Jiang Xinbai sentenced him to exile, as making a big deal out of it would be equivalent to admitting Yan Nanxing was his weakness.

Jiang Xinbai confined Yan Nanxing, but she was actually willing to follow his words. Tong Saier once again mentioned Yan Nanxing helping Shang Bieli repair his nose, promising that Shang Bieli would agree. Tong Saier took the initiative to serve Shang Bieli during his bath and used Hua Xiangrong's sachet, suggesting Yan Nanxing could help him fix his nose. Shang Bieli didn't agree, but he was soon knocked out by Tong Saier's incense.

Yan Nanxing, Jiang Xinbai, and Nan Jifeng arrived, planning to seize the opportunity to repair his nose.

Shang Bieli slowly woke up to find Tong Saier, Yan Nanxing, Jiang Xinbai, and Nan Jifeng all present. He learned that his nose had been repaired but was furious. He glanced around, unable to scold anyone, and finally directed his anger at Jiang Xinbai. Clutching his mask, Shang Bieli refused to let go. Nan Jifeng told him that Gaya also hoped he would pull himself together; they all wanted Shang Bieli to look forward.

Outside his room, Tong Saier silently prayed, knowing he was a great hero and that she would stay by his side no matter what. Shang Bieli stayed awake all night and, early the next morning, asked Tong Saier to accompany him to the outskirts, where he buried the mask as a tribute to Gaya. He vowed never to return and to look ahead.

Jiang Suoluo encountered Liu Ruoqian sweeping the grounds and immediately assumed he was deliberately following her, becoming instantly angry. Liu Ruoqian, however, remained calm and showed her his scholar’s robe from the Hanlin Academy, explaining that he belonged there. He wasn't trying to curry favor but had only discovered she was the Dean of the Hanlin Academy when she fainted. He considered her a friend.

Jiang Suoluo responded that she needed friends who would stand by her side no matter what, regardless of their status. Yan Biqing, seeing Liu Ruoqian slacking off while cleaning, disdainfully drove him away, as Liu Ruoqian, being of servant status, couldn’t take the imperial exams and was assigned menial tasks. Yan Biqing looked down on him, but Jiang Suoluo defended him, saying a teacher shouldn't insult a student like that.

Liu Ruoqian, having heard such words all his life, remained calm. Jiang Suoluo decided to pay Liu Ruoqian a salary, specifically instructing that it wasn’t from her. Though Shang Bieli’s nose was repaired, his sense of smell hadn’t returned. To thank Yan Nanxing, he agreed to help her find her little brother. Jiang Suoluo met Liu Ruoqian on the street and apologized to him, and he gratefully acknowledged her help in raising his salary.

Yan Nanxing, worried that Jiang Xinbai hadn’t returned home late at night, donned a mask and went to the police station to find him, remembering to apply his medicine. Jiang Xinbai felt it was odd to change his bandages there, but Yan Nanxing blew out the candle and told him to undress. Jiang Xinbai refused again. Yan Nanxing, having brought medicine, made him drink it despite his aversion to the taste.

Finally, he drank it while pinching his nose, and Yan Nanxing immediately gave him a candied fruit. Yan Nanxing asked Jiang Xinbai why he came to rescue her, wondering what if Li Wufang had deceived him. Jiang Xinbai admitted he couldn’t take the risk. Years ago, when his father was investigating the Zornia herb, a crucial witness was killed due to his negligence. That witness had the same surname as them.

Though Yan Nanxing had no relation to him or the Zornia herb, Jiang Xinbai couldn’t bear the thought of losing her. As they planned to go home, they discovered the police station’s door was locked and had to spend the night there. In the darkness, Yan Nanxing spoke again, saying she knew Jiang Xinbai wanted to protect her, but she wanted to face everything together with him. Jiang Xinbai, however, had already fallen asleep.

Yan Nanxing felt a pang of heartache, thinking he must be very tired after all his struggles. She looked at Jiang Xinbai’s face, feeling very satisfied, then hugged his arm and fell asleep on his shoulder, while Jiang Xinbai, pretending to sleep, quietly smiled. Early the next morning, Jiang Zhiyi, worried about Jiang Xinbai, rushed to the police station.

As soon as it opened, Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing, who had just woken up, were spotted by a crowd and Jiang Zhiyi. Under everyone’s gaze, Jiang Xinbai tightly held Yan Nanxing’s hand. Jiang Zhiyi nearly fainted from anger and demanded a private talk with Yan Nanxing. Jiang Zhiyi tried to name her price, but Yan Nanxing was so infuriated that she couldn’t speak.

They ended up in a fierce argument, pulling each other’s hair, and Jiang Xinbai and Yan Qingyun had to step in to break them apart. Despite having been worried about Yan Nanxing all this time, Jiang Zhiyi was angered by her words. Yan Qingyun advised her to reopen Hua Xiangrong, and Jiang Zhiyi agreed but vowed never to let Yan Nanxing become her daughter-in-law, determined to be a wicked mother-in-law.

Jiang Xinbai brought Yan Nanxing her favorite food as she hadn’t eaten all day. Jiang Xinbai analyzed the situation, noting that if the matter spread, the Yuejiang Prince's residence would surely protect Yan Nanxing, so he wouldn't need to worry. He presented Yan Nanxing with the deed to Hua Xiangrong, ensuring that no one could evict her again. Yet, Yan Nanxing was still unhappy.

Jiang Xinbai then handed her the deed to her own residence, leaving Yan Nanxing speechless for a moment before she angrily declared she would move out the next day.

Tong Saier saw Shang Bieli looking into a mirror but not daring to see his entire face. She rushed over to cheer him up and encouraged him to face himself. After Shang Bieli finally looked at his restored nose, Tong Saier made a new dish to celebrate, but Shang Bieli nearly choked on it.

Jiang Suoluo was happy to see that Shang Bieli's nose was healed, but she was upset to find out that Shang Bieli had become friends with Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing. She felt excluded whenever Jiang Xinbai was around. Shang Bieli, however, advised her not to think that way, reminding her that Jiang Suoluo and Jiang Xinbai were family no matter what. Hua Xiangrong reopened, but people were too afraid to approach upon learning Yan Nanxing's identity.

That day, the former supervisor came to give a lecture, and the Hanlin Academy didn't let Liu Ruoqian attend. Still, thinking of himself as Jiang Suoluo’s person, he eagerly rushed to the academy. Mr. Cui was discussing social hierarchy, and Liu Ruoqian fearlessly questioned him, which made Jiang Suoluo very pleased. Seeing Jiang Suoluo defending Liu Ruoqian, Mr. Cui had no choice but to back down.

However, in private, Liu Ruoqian was severely beaten by Yan Biqing, and Jiang Suoluo, witnessing this, angrily demanded he hand over the ruler. Yan Biqing, too, had to lower his head in front of Jiang Suoluo. Liu Ruoqian was then permitted to audit Jiang Suoluo’s classes. To express his gratitude, he picked another bouquet of wildflowers for her.

Tong Saier prepared a lot of delicious food waiting for Shang Bieli to return, but he came home late, as he was discussing clues with Jiang Xinbai, Yan Nanxing, and Nan Jifeng. Shang Bieli discovered that Lu Boan was the handler for Li Wufang and was Lord Lu’s own grandson, as well as a student at the Hanlin Academy. However, Jiang Xinbai argued that this wasn’t conclusive evidence.

Shang Bieli, with his temper, couldn’t stand hearing such words and nearly quarreled with Jiang Xinbai again. With new clues in hand, Nan Jifeng decided to set off with Yao Qianshu to investigate, while Jiang Xinbai planned to seek out Jiang Suoluo for more information before deciding on the next steps. Before leaving, Jiang Xinbai asked Yan Nanxing to wait for his return as he had something to tell her. Tonight was the Yuejiang Prince's residence’s appreciation banquet.

Yan Biqing attended with his father, who suddenly blurted out the news of Yan Biqing and Jiang Suoluo’s private engagement. Yan Biqing took the opportunity to confess to Jiang Zhiyi, who nearly lost her balance but maintained her polite facade. When Jiang Xinbai returned, Jiang Zhiyi was interrogating Jiang Suoluo. It turned out that during her lonely time studying abroad in Miluo, Yan Biqing had shown her much care, leading Jiang Suoluo to act impulsively.

Jiang Zhiyi angrily berated her, saying Yan Biqing and his father were despicable and unworthy of marriage. Fortunately, Jiang Suoluo wasn’t sincere in her feelings for Yan Biqing. Jiang Zhiyi tearfully urged her to find someone who truly cared for her, assuring her that no one would force her to marry against her will. Jiang Xinbai waited outside, but Jiang Suoluo, emotionally drained, couldn’t hear a word he said.

Tonight was a full moon night, and Jiang Xinbai wanted Yan Nanxing to stay with him. She was due to transform, and he wanted to be by her side to keep her safe and not feel lonely or afraid. However, Yan Nanxing misunderstood his intention to sleep together. Jiang Xinbai clarified that she should sleep while he would sit beside her.

Yan Nanxing, somewhat speechless, made room on the bed for him, saying this was the proper way to sleep together. Early the next morning, Jiang Zhiyi, troubled by the children's affairs, learned that Yan Nanxing had stayed at Jiang Xinbai's house again, causing her to erupt in anger. Yan Nanxing woke up sweetly in Jiang Xinbai’s arms, finding herself unchanged. Jiang Xinbai was a bit surprised.

Yan Nanxing suggested that if she didn’t transform today, she might transform tomorrow, so she could just return in the evening. As she opened the door, Jiang Zhiyi stormed in, and Yan Nanxing quickly hid in the closet. Jiang Zhiyi burst in and opened the closet door, only to find a man dressed in women’s clothes inside. Jiang Xinbai found it hard to explain, and Jiang Zhiyi was utterly devastated.

After discovering Jiang Xinbai spending the night with a man dressed in women's clothing, Jiang Zhiyi was completely shattered. She couldn't even face her own son and kept yelling for Jiang Xinbai to bring Yan Nanxing back. Jiang Suoluo and her grandfather tried to console her, but they had no idea what had happened. Jiang Zhiyi couldn't speak, so she just held onto Jiang Suoluo and cried.

When Jiang Xinbai returned home, he found that Yan Nanxing had already found clothes that fit from his wardrobe—clothes he wore while studying at the Hanlin Academy. Yan Nanxing decided to wear these clothes to the academy to help investigate, despite Jiang Xinbai's repeated attempts to stop her. Yan Biqing discovered Jiang Suoluo's attitude towards him and threatened to expose their engagement to everyone. Jiang Suoluo wasn't afraid; she couldn't be swayed into doing something she didn't want to.

Yan Nanxing easily infiltrated the Hanlin Academy, where she encountered Liu Ruoqian and introduced herself as an auditor named "Wu Ming," fabricating a plausible backstory. She cautioned Liu Ruoqian not to mistake her for a friend, as "Wu Ming" wouldn't last more than a few days. During class, Yan Nanxing fell asleep and woke up to find Lu Boan causing trouble for Liu Ruoqian.

She intervened but ended up with a nosebleed from Lu Boan's retaliation, fainting and demanding Liu Ruoqian go to the Judicial Office to report her pseudo-uncle. Jiang Xinbai received the news and knew it had to be Yan Nanxing, so he rushed to join her in the act. Yan Biqing tried to intervene, but Jiang Xinbai took everyone away, even carrying "Wu Ming" on a stretcher.

Lord Lu received urgent news and, after Yan Nanxing was brought to the Judicial Office, requested half an hour from Jiang Xinbai to extract information from Lu Boan. However, Jiang Suoluo arrived, pressing Jiang Xinbai to delay the conversation. Yan Nanxing skillfully coaxed from Lu Boan that Li Wufang and his father had deceived Lord Lu, who was oblivious to their actions. Half an hour passed, and the Hanlin Academy disciple was released.

Jiang Suoluo immediately realized "Wu Ming" wasn't a disciple of the Hanlin Academy, despite Jiang Xinbai's frantic attempts to signal Yan Nanxing, deepening Jiang Suoluo's misunderstanding. Returning home, Jiang Suoluo complained to her grandfather and Jiang Zhiyi. Jiang Xinbai could only bow his head in guilt. Jiang Suoluo demanded an explanation about "Wu Ming"—coming to the Hanlin Academy just to defend a young man? Jiang Zhiyi, upon hearing this, fainted again in anger.

Yan Nanxing struggled to paint the current face well, so Jiang Xinbai took the brush and touched her face. Suddenly, Yan Nanxing transformed back into her female appearance. Back at Hua Xiangrong, Jiang Zhiyi's attitude towards Yan Nanxing changed drastically. She went from being distant to caring and even proclaimed herself Yan Nanxing's mother, urging her to hold onto Jiang Xinbai's heart firmly. Later, Jiang Zhiyi summoned Jiang Xinbai and pressured him to quickly finalize his engagement with Yan Nanxing.

Tong Saier dreamed last night that her fiancé had died. The next day, Mr. Lan came to Hua Xiangrong, hoping Yan Nanxing could help him fix something. He mentioned the scar on his face and revealed he was the one who saved Tong Saier, though he showed disdain when speaking of it. Yan Nanxing refused to treat him and promptly threw him out.

Shang Bieli discussed with Jiang Xinbai about the person Yan Nanxing was looking for, whom they suspected was likely dead. Jiang Xinbai decided it was time to tell Yan Nanxing the truth.

Shang Bieli revealed the truth to Yan Nanxing, who was deeply saddened to learn that her younger brother, whom she had been desperately searching for, was missing. She wandered aimlessly through the streets, with Jiang Xinbai quietly following behind her. Yan Nanxing prayed that her brother was still alive somewhere in the world, while Jiang Xinbai silently wished that Yan Nanxing's every wish could come true, hoping his father's spirit in heaven would bless her.

Shang Bieli already knew about Tong Saier's situation, but Tong Saier wasn't saddened; she was just thinking about working diligently in the future. Tong Saier referred to "work" as returning to Hua Xiangrong. Shang Bieli felt a bit lost seeing her, as he had grown accustomed to her lively presence in the mansion. Tong Saier comforted him, promising to help heal his nose, so she would visit often.

Shang Bieli said that besides Hua Xiangrong, this place was her second home. Shang Bieli enthusiastically escorted Tong Saier to Hua Xiangrong to work and reassured her not to rush into finding her fiancé; her mother wanted her to find him so she would have someone to rely on. Now, Tong Saier could find another person to rely on, which would ease her mother's spirit in heaven.

Tong Saier felt optimistic; here was her home, where she could find new family. Tong Saier turned to Shang Bieli and asked, "Would you like to become my family? " Shang Bieli was moved by her words but was taken aback when Tong Saier suggested they become sworn siblings. Tong Saier was eager to proceed, but Shang Bieli wasn't thinking of becoming siblings and didn't want to disappoint her, so he reluctantly agreed for now.

Back at home, Shang Bieli couldn't shake off his unease; life without Tong Saier was truly unsettling. Nan Jifeng was ambushed, and after his body was brought back, Shang Bieli hurried to the scene. Seeing his elder brother's tragic death devastated him, but Yao Qianshu, who was still unconscious, needed to wake up before they could uncover the truth. Impatient, Shang Bieli rushed in and woke Yao Qianshu to interrogate him.

Yao Qianshu explained they had been ambushed upon arriving in Tingzhou by bandits and horse thieves. Shang Bieli was certain it was orchestrated by Lord Lu and immediately wanted to arrest both Lu and the Lis. Jiang Xinbai and Tong Saier managed to stop him. Shang Bieli reluctantly calmed down and decided to wait for Jiang Xinbai at the palace gates the next day, demanding an explanation. Nan Jifeng's death weighed heavily on Jiang Xinbai, blaming himself.

He had narrowly escaped the river barbarians only to face this tragedy; he was determined not to let Nan Jifeng die in vain. Shang Bieli and Tong Saier helped bury Nan Jifeng, and Shang Bieli planned to return him to the River Barbarians to be buried alongside Gaya. Jiang Xinbai arrived early at the palace gates with account books and counterfeit paintings to file a complaint. Lord Li reminded him that Lord Lu had also gifted their grandfather a painting.

Instigated by Lord Lu, his grandfather joyfully stamped his seal on the painting before Jiang Xinbai arrived, falling into a despicable trap; once Jiang Xinbai filed the lawsuit, the Yuejiang Mansion would be in trouble. Shang Bieli waited a long time but didn't see Jiang Xinbai, so he went alone to file the lawsuit. However, lacking evidence, he was punished with a hundred lashes.

Despite facing a crisis, the Yuejiang Mansion remained united, and his grandfather was deeply remorseful for implicating Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Xinbai had just left the Yuejiang Mansion when Tong Saier brought him before Shang Bieli. Shang Bieli was furious that Jiang Xinbai had stood him up, and regardless of his reasons, he would never forgive him.

Facing the Emperor's inquiry, Jiang Xinbai completely absolved Shang Bieli of any blame, shouldering the responsibility for Nan Jifeng's death alone and was ultimately dismissed from office. Yan Qingyun was ordered to take over as Chief of the Judicial Office, easing Jiang Xinbai's worries—it wasn't Lord Lu's influence. Yao Qianshu, despondent, wondered if Nan Jifeng and Jiang Xinbai deserved this fate. When he was young, Jiang Xinbai had asked his father the same question.

At the time, he didn't understand his father's answer, but now he understood a lot more—this was their mission. Yan Nanxing was always concerned about Jiang Xinbai's emotions; he couldn't sink into despair, or he would truly lose. Jiang Xinbai worried he might not be reinstated and might not even be able to stay in the capital, but Yan Nanxing didn't care about any of that; she would always stand behind Jiang Xinbai.

Yan Biqing came to congratulate Jiang Suoluo on Jiang Xinbai's dismissal; it seemed the position of Yuejiang Prince was now within Jiang Suoluo's grasp. Jiang Suoluo dismissed this notion, stating it was Yuejiang Mansion's internal matter and not his place to meddle. Yan Biqing persisted in bothering Jiang Suoluo, and just as he tightly hugged her, Jiang Xinbai punched him away. Concerned for Jiang Suoluo, Jiang Xinbai noticed the injury on her face.

He asked her to keep an eye on Lu Boan for him, as it concerned Bai Yuchen, her grandfather, and her mother, urging them to stay calm and not fall into another trap. As for Yan Biqing, if he dared to bully Jiang Suoluo again, Jiang Xinbai would handle him. Relations between Jiang Suoluo and Jiang Xinbai improved as Jiang Suoluo brought out the birthday gift Jiang Xinbai had long cherished.

Yan Qingyun, witnessing this, finally breathed a sigh of relief. Yan Qingyun suggested Jiang Suoluo go to the palace to seek help from the Empress, but Jiang Suoluo felt someone else might be more suitable. She found Lord Pei, who said there was nothing he could do. He added that if the Emperor decided to convict, Jiang Xinbai would likely be cut off from the Yuejiang Mansion, and the future of the mansion would rest on Jiang Suoluo's shoulders.

These recent events had deeply affected Jiang Xinbai, and Yan Nanxing wanted to help him regain his spirits. Remembering how Jiang Xinbai once got drunk and insisted on seeing fireworks, Yan Nanxing bought many fireworks. Besides the royal family, only Lord Xi had the privilege of setting off fireworks in the capital. Lord Lu specifically replaced Yan Nanxing's fireworks, intending to cause trouble.

Jiang Xinbai had been working hard at Hua Xiangrong these days, and Yan Nanxing deliberately wore the clothes he had given her, saying it was a gift for him. However, when Jiang Xinbai saw the fireworks, his brow furrowed; they couldn't set them off now. Setting off fireworks was a privilege granted by the Emperor to Lord Xi, and doing so now might anger the Emperor.

Yan Nanxing was disappointed, but quickly reassured Jiang Xinbai, recounting how she had been rescued by her "little brother" in the past, awakening memories in Jiang Xinbai. His emotions were complicated, tears threatening to fall, and he held Yan Nanxing tightly. Yan Nanxing was puzzled by his emotions but was distracted by the dazzling fireworks, which weren't set off by them. The Yuejiang Mansion was thrown into chaos by the fireworks, while Lord Lu and Lord Li gloated behind the scenes.

Shang Bieli quickly arrived to arrest Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing. In prison, Lord Pei, Jiang Zhixi, and Jiang Suoluo visited Jiang Xinbai. The Emperor decided to exile Jiang Xinbai to Yanzhou, while Yan Nanxing was explaining to Shang Bieli that someone was clearly trying to frame him. Jiang Xinbai told his family the whole story, insisting someone was trying to frame him.

Yan Nanxing pleaded with Shang Bieli for a long time to see Jiang Xinbai, who said that the fireworks were meant to propose to him, hoping the Emperor would consider this testimony. Lord Pei decided to plead to the Emperor, but exile seemed unavoidable, just a matter of where. Jiang Xinbai hoped to marry Yan Nanxing in the capital before leaving, which Lord Pei agreed to.

After his release, Jiang Xinbai decided to sever ties with the Yuejiang Mansion; he couldn't burden his family. Jiang Suoluo wanted to tell Shang Bieli the truth about Jiang Xinbai missing their appointment, but Jiang Xinbai stopped him, sharing a risky plan instead. Shang Bieli grabbed Lu Boan, beat him, and then brought him before Lord Lu and Lord Li, purposely causing a quarrel between them.

Jiang Xinbai stated he was the "little brother" Yan Nanxing was looking for and that his feelings for Yan Nanxing were sincere. Shang Bieli was curious if Yan Nanxing knew about this, but Jiang Xinbai didn't say; he would tell her himself when everything settled down.

Yan Nanxing knew they wouldn't leave the capital city; there had to be a way. She decided to marry Jiang Xinbai, with Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier as her family. Despite publicly severing ties with the Yuejiang Mansion, Jiang Xinbai compensated Yan Nanxing generously. Unable to come herself, Jiang Zhixi, Jiang Suoluo brought gifts to welcome Yan Nanxing into the Yuejiang Mansion. Yan Nanxing playfully asked Jiang Suoluo to call her "sister-in-law," but Jiang Suoluo acted coy.

Jiang Xinbai kept his plans hidden from Yan Nanxing because he genuinely wanted to marry her and didn't want her to see this as just a game. After saying these words, Jiang Suoluo softly called her "sister-in-law," and Yan Nanxing immediately smiled. On their wedding day, Yan Nanxing looked exceptionally stunning. Jiang Xinbai was also well-prepared, and Shang Bieli came to congratulate them.

As Jiang Xinbai arrived to welcome his bride, Madame Bao and others blocked the door, but Jiang Xinbai effortlessly passed by tossing money. Yan Nanxing, holding a round fan, bid farewell to Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier and left Hua Xiangrong amid cheers and congratulations, hand in hand with Jiang Xinbai, towards their future. On their wedding night, the bridal chamber was lit with candles.

Due to circumstances, the wedding wasn't grand, not even as grand as He Man's, but Jiang Xinbai's intentions were clear. Yan Nanxing smiled gently as Jiang Xinbai said he wanted to clearly see her face. Yan Nanxing took his hand and touched her eyebrows, eyes, nose, and lips. Just as everything seemed natural, Yan Nanxing suddenly felt something was wrong and quickly covered herself with a quilt.

Jiang Xinbai thought she was just shy, but to his surprise, a man's voice sobbed from under the covers. Jiang Xinbai was speechless; why did this have to happen tonight, and why did it have to be a rough man! Their wedding night was ruined. Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing could only sit there. Yao Qianshu came with news; Lord Li was leaving the city tonight, and Yan Nanxing insisted on going with Jiang Xinbai.

He was a ready-made stranger, and he looked just like the assassin. So Jiang Xinbai took Yan Nanxing along. They wore black clothes and masks, terrifying Lord Li. Jiang Xinbai rushed back to the capital while Yan Nanxing stayed behind to detain Lord Li and inform Yan Qingyun. Yan Qingyun was puzzled by the stranger's face; Yan Nanxing claimed to be Jiang Xinbai's person.

When Lord Li woke up, Yan Qingyun and Yan Nanxing staged a drama, accusing Lord Lu of hiring assassins. Lord Li decided to expose Lord Lu for killing Nan Jifeng and had more important matters to report to the Emperor. Lord Pei and Lord Lu appeared before the Emperor, presenting many paintings and calligraphy. Jiang Xinbai and Yan Qingyun arrived with witnesses, identifying Lord Lu as Nan Jifeng's killer and the mastermind behind the fireworks incident.

Lord Lu demanded evidence, and Lord Li had to mention Li Wufang and Lu Boan. Lu Boan had already been sent to Miro by Lord Lu, but Jiang Xinbai, Jiang Suoluo, and Shang Bieli intercepted him, presenting evidence. Despite his resistance, Lu Boan drew his sword and killed Lord Li, then committed suicide in front of the court. However, the Zornia Herb case remained unresolved. The Emperor ordered Jiang Xinbai to uncover the mastermind behind the scenes.

The Emperor allowed Jiang Xinbai to return to the Central Arrest Yamen to thoroughly investigate the matter, but Jiang Xinbai insisted that his immediate destination was not the Yamen but Tingzhou. He believed that the truth of Lord Lu's defiance might be found in Tingzhou. The Emperor agreed to let Jiang Xinbai go to Tingzhou, shocking Shang Bieli, who couldn't stop him in time.

Jiang Xinbai had to delve deep into Tingzhou's den to uncover the truth, while Shang Bieli had to stay in the capital where hidden forces were stirring, needing his vigilance. Hearing this, Jiang Zhixi flew into a rage at home, smashing everything in sight. Jiang Xinbai explained that he sought this position himself; Zornia Herb's mastermind, behind his father's death, had to be uncovered. He must continue investigating, and only Tingzhou could reveal the truth.

Jiang Zhixi worried for his safety, but his grandfather encouraged him to proceed. When Jiang Xinbai announced he would depart early the next morning, Jiang Zhixi fainted. Jiang Xinbai assured her that upon his return from Tingzhou, he would help Jiang Suoluo annul her engagement to Yan Biqing, advising her to take care of herself. Jiang Suoluo hesitated, wanting to share something with him. Clearing out the courtyard attendants like Jiang Xinbai, their struggle officially ended.

Jiang Suoluo brought wine for a toast, revealing her aspirations to become a female minister, wielding power over many. Jiang Xinbai, slightly drunk, confided in her, acknowledging the complexities of ascending to power. Despite his reservations, he chose to trust her. Upon Jiang Xinbai's return home, Yan Nanxing had already reverted to her usual self. Jiang Xinbai complained that Jiang Suoluo had forced him to drink, leaving Yan Nanxing somewhat exasperated at his complaint despite his age.

Jiang Xinbai produced a divorce document, shocking Yan Nanxing, as they had only been married for two days! However, Jiang Xinbai had prepared this divorce to protect Yan Nanxing, intending to secure her safety after the deaths of Lord Lu and Lord Li. Yan Nanxing insisted on accompanying him, but Jiang Xinbai pleaded for her to stay to safeguard the Yuejiang Mansion, leaving the divorce document behind to protect her at a critical moment.

The next morning, Yan Nanxing woke to find Jiang Xinbai gone, leaving a letter declaring his love and commitment but cautioning against lingering due to unfinished business. Liu Ruoqian returned home to find his father injured. To make ends meet, he took on a job in the Ghost Market and cleaned the mansion at Rooster's time. Unbeknownst to him, he cleaned Jiang Suoluo's mansion.

Tong Saier came to cook for Shang Bieli again, trying to help him regain his sense of smell, a gesture he warmly appreciated. Separated by distance, Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing longed for each other. Liu Ruoqian juggled work and studies, never getting enough sleep. Yan Nanxing suddenly disappeared and reappeared, while Bai Yuchen came to Hua Xiangrong on behalf of Jiang Zhixi, holding new products, still disdainful towards her.

Apparently, a new shop had opened across Hua Xiangrong, luring away her customers. A female guest arrived at Hua Xiangrong's shop today, and Yan Nanxing was shocked to find it was the Phantom Physician. Despite their argument over Jiang Xinbai, they were both drawn to the new and enchanting shop across the street, hurrying to investigate the situation.

Qing Guo Qing Cheng opened today, touted as the capital's top makeup salon. Bai Yuan arrived at the shop with ill intentions, chatting with the owner, Yan Wushuang. Bai Yuan disliked Yan Nanxing and wished to lure away Hua Xiangrong's customers to ensure her closure. Bai Yuan was willing to assist Yan Wushuang in defeating Hua Xiangrong, believing that knowing one's enemy guarantees victory.

Phantom Physician arrived at Qing Guo Qing Cheng in exotic attire, dismayed to find everything sold at rock-bottom prices, even below cost. Yan Nanxing and Phantom Physician planned to cause trouble but were recognized by Yan Wushuang, leading to a confrontation where Yan Nanxing managed to sway some of her clients. Feeling distressed, Yan Nanxing cried alone at night, wishing Jiang Xinbai were present to prevent her from being bullied.

Half a month away from home, Jiang Xinbai hadn't even sent a letter, leaving Yan Nanxing feeling extremely aggrieved. Qing Guo Qing Cheng engaged in a price war, causing difficulties for Hua Xiangrong. Yan Nanxing and Tong Saier couldn't find a solution, but Phantom Physician claimed to have a plan to implement after dark. Jiang Suoluo hosted a banquet for old officials, where Yan Biqing and his father arrived uninvited, intending to support her.

Disdainful, Jiang Suoluo's true purpose was not for the throne but to hold office in the court. The old officials objected, stating that women should behave accordingly and couldn't hold office with men. They challenged Jiang Suoluo to pour them wine and humble herself. Recalling Jiang Xinbai's advice, Jiang Suoluo clenched her fists, poured the wine reluctantly, then retreated to her room where she couldn't hold back her tears, unknowingly causing Liu Ruoqian, hiding in the rafters, to fall down.

Enraged, Jiang Suoluo vented her anger on Liu Ruoqian, ordering him to leave without allowing him to explain. Later, realizing her mistake, she hurriedly apologized to Liu Ruoqian, who smilingly led her to the city wall. Initially hesitant, she eventually shouted out her frustrations as Liu Ruoqian encouraged her, feeling much relieved afterward. Walking home, Jiang Suoluo sprained her foot, prompting Liu Ruoqian to carry her.

At night, Phantom Physician surreptitiously brought Yan Nanxing and Tong Saier to Qing Guo Qing Cheng to sabotage their fortune tree. Witnessing Liu Ruoqian carrying Jiang Suoluo on his back, they were stunned. The next morning, Yan Nanxing went to Liu Ruoqian's home, misunderstanding his visit to Jiang Suoluo's as self-deprecation. Misinterpreting their conversation, his eavesdropping parents rushed in and beat Liu Ruoqian without a word.

Forced to leave home, Liu Ruoqian had nowhere to go but decided to break Jiang Suoluo's vase, providing him with a reason to stay as a maid. Selecting the most expensive vase, Liu Ruoqian's ill intent was apparent, but after understanding the reasons, Jiang Suoluo reluctantly agreed. The next day, Jiang Suoluo went to Hua Xiangrong to find Yan Nanxing.

Aware of Hua Xiangrong's predicament, knowing that Jiang Xinbai entrusted Yan Nanxing to her, Jiang Suoluo helped her challenge Qing Guo Qing Cheng by spreading news of a major sale. Seeing this, Yan Wushuang also lowered her prices, offering a 50% discount, prompting both sides to slash prices further, ultimately ending with a 10% reduction. Although the price war didn't succeed, Yan Nanxing learned the truth about Liu Ruoqian at Jiang Suoluo's residence, finally easing her lingering concerns.

Tingzhou. In Tingzhou, the two most influential gangs are Bai Yuan Gang and Hei Ao Gang. Bai Yuan Gang runs a gambling den, and Jiang Xinbai's first target is this gang. Unlike Hei Ao Gang, Bai Yuan Gang avoids unnecessary killings, adhering to a code of conduct in their thievery. Jiang Xinbai considers leveraging Bai Yuan's influence to suppress Hei Ao Gang. Jiang Xinbai meets Bai Yuan, the leader of Bai Yuan Gang, without any fear.

Recognizing the real Bai Yuan in the gambling den, Jiang Xinbai reveals his identity, to which Bai Yuan shows no sign of fear or respect. Bai Yuan challenges Jiang Xinbai to a game, but Jiang Xinbai handles himself skillfully. Bai Yuan regards him with hostility as Jiang Xinbai candidly expresses his intentions—to share in Bai Yuan's business. Despite initial tension among Bai Yuan's men, Bai Yuan remains calm upon Jiang Xinbai's assurance not to dismantle his gang.

Jiang Xinbai and Yao Qianshu breathe a sigh of relief; entering Tingzhou's jurisdiction, Bai Yuan Gang's reaction hints at Bai Yuan's possible involvement with Zornia Herb or knowledge of its whereabouts. Bai Yuan indeed understands Jiang Xinbai's purpose—he seeks Zornia Herb. Naturally, Hei Ao Gang is connected to Zornia Herb, and Bai Yuan orders surveillance on Hei Ao Gang to prevent their escape. Jiang Xinbai receives news from the capital that Yan Nanxing is doing well, leading a lively life.

Jiang Xinbai notices the boss of Qing Guo Qing Cheng and inquires about their gender. Bai Yuan and Yan Wushuang join forces against Hua Xiangrong. Bai Yuan realizes Yan Wushuang's grudge against Yan Nanxing—is it because of Yuejiang Mansion? Yan Wushuang explains that Yan Nanxing took over their pharmacy business a year ago at He Man, causing her embarrassment. Outraged, she vows to seek justice.

Jiang Suoluo brings back Liu Ruoqian and devises a plan: a three-day public showdown to challenge Yan Nanxing. However, Phantom Physician suspects they're not targeting Hua Xiangrong but rather Yan Nanxing and speculates that she might have offended someone. Soon, a group of customers arrives, seeking Yan Nanxing's help after buying ointments from Qing Guo Qing Cheng, which ruined their faces.

After Yan Nanxing inspects them, she takes the ladies to confront Qing Guo Qing Cheng, but Yan Wushuang denies any involvement. Alone, Jiang Suoluo questions Yan Wushuang about her intentions, but Yan Wushuang slaps herself twice, runs out crying, falsely claiming Yan Nanxing hit her, leading to a street brawl. Inadvertently, Yan Nanxing sees a crescent-shaped mark on Yan Wushuang's arm, identical to the one on the person who drugged her before.

Shang Bieli receives urgent news and rushes to prevent any harm to Tong Saier. Yan Wushuang causes a scene, while Phantom Physician faints. Yan Nanxing shares her suspicions with Phantom Physician, realizing her last transformation wasn't around the full moon, and they must confirm if Yan Wushuang and the one who drugged her are connected. Yan Biqing and Yan Wushuang are indeed linked, with a complex and unclear relationship between them.

Late at night, Yan Nanxing sneaks into Qing Guo Qing Cheng but is caught by Yan Wushuang and tied up. All those who tested the drug are dead, except Yan Nanxing, who miraculously survived the poisoning meant to control the mind. Curious, Yan Wushuang tries to harm Yan Nanxing again but is knocked unconscious by Phantom Physician and the others. Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian are shocked to see their beautiful boss transformed into a chubby person.

They restrain Yan Wushuang, who refuses to reveal her benefactor. Tong Saier tries to control her mind by forcing her to drink the drug, unaware that she bleeds to death on the spot.

Yan Nanxing and Phantom Physician told Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier about her transformation. Phantom Physician had been administering various herbs to Yan Nanxing since childhood, so her body had developed immunity to various toxins, effectively neutralizing the effects of Zornia Herb. Yan Nanxing, also a victim of Zornia Herb, decided to leave for Tingzhou the next morning to confront the mastermind behind Zornia Herb.

Phantom Physician disagreed with Yan Nanxing's decision to go, while Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian insisted on accompanying her. However, Yan Nanxing persuaded them to stay and watch over Hua Xiangrong. Unable to dissuade Yan Nanxing, Phantom Physician reluctantly escorted her to Tingzhou. During her time in the capital, Phantom Physician found that Yan Nanxing had made good friends, which explained her reluctance to leave.

Yan Nanxing hoped Phantom Physician would stay in the capital, suggesting they could retire together with Jiang Xinbai's support, but Phantom Physician, being free-spirited, couldn't be persuaded to stay. After bidding farewell to Phantom Physician, Yan Nanxing embarked on her journey to Tingzhou, leaving Phantom Physician coughing blood but determined to retrieve the antidote for Yan Nanxing. Yan Biqing was furious upon discovering Yan Wushuang's death from poisoning and Yan Nanxing's disappearance.

Qing Guo Qing Cheng was deserted overnight, and business resumed at Hua Xiangrong, but Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier realized that Beijing was no longer safe—they needed to be cautious. Fearful that Jiang Xinbai investigating Zornia Herb might lead to trouble, Yan Nanxing rushed to Tingzhou. Upon meeting Jiang Xinbai, Yan Nanxing shared her recent experiences. Jiang Xinbai scolded her for being reckless, worrying about potential consequences.

Yao Qianshu jokingly sent the coachman back to ensure Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai rested early, hinting that Jiang Xinbai might soon become a father. However, Jiang Xinbai insisted on going to the Marshal's mansion and arranged for Yan Nanxing's protection, believing it safer than elsewhere. After Jiang Xinbai left, Yan Nanxing couldn't settle down.

Jiang Xinbai and Yao Qianshu arrived at the Marshal's mansion for their appointment, where Hei Ao barred them from carrying weapons and made suggestive advances towards them. When asked to show their official tokens, Yao Qianshu realized his had been taken by Hei Ao earlier, who promptly ordered their capture. Yan Nanxing escaped through a dog hole, intending to grab a bowl of noodles but encountered Bai Yuan and Hei Ao instead.

Hei Ao, behaving frivolously, flirted with Bai Yuan, who rebuffed her and instructed her to inform her master that he refused to be anyone's lackey. Yan Nanxing, unable to leave in time, revealed herself, prompting Bai Yuan to consider killing her to silence her. Yan Nanxing mentioned Jiang Xinbai but to no avail, until she noticed Bai Yuan's blind right eye and offered to heal it! Jiang Xinbai and Yao Qianshu were detained, likely due to recent Zornia Herb shipments.

Learning that Bai Yuan and Hei Ao had not only stolen but also destroyed the Zornia Herb, they secretly burned the goods under Yi Yuanshan's nose. Meanwhile, Yan Nanxing was taken back to Bai Yuan's gang, where the children and elderly revered Bai Yuan unlike other bandits. Yan Nanxing asked Bai Yuan to delay her with medical books, which he agreed to. Yao Qianshu and Jiang Xinbai rushed back to find Yan Nanxing missing.

Meanwhile, Yan Nanxing was fitting Bai Yuan with an artificial eye, though he refused anesthesia and insisted everyone watch. Just as Yan Nanxing was about to operate, Bai Yuan, intimidated, cleared the room. After Yan Nanxing successfully healed Bai Yuan, she treated villagers in the stronghold. Bai Yuan's emotions softened upon seeing this. With Bai Yuan's prosthetic eye ready, Yan Nanxing pleaded for him to send her back, but Bai Yuan hesitated, ordering an investigation into her background.

Yan Nanxing feigned interest in fetching medicine from town but was closely watched by Bai Yuan, leaving her no chance to escape. Claiming his eye hurt, Bai Yuan finally relented and allowed Yan Nanxing to return. However, from the moment she healed his eye, Bai Yuan never intended to let Yan Nanxing go. He was determined to seize her forcibly, and though she claimed to be married, Bai Yuan remained undeterred, even contemplating killing her spouse.

Bai Yuan insisted on forcefully marrying Yan Nanxing. Seeing no way out, Yan Nanxing reluctantly agreed but demanded a proper wedding ceremony. Bai Yuan consented, leaving with the promise of a ceremony the next day. Meanwhile, Jiang Xinbai investigated Yan Nanxing's whereabouts and grew worried upon learning she had been taken by Bai Yuan. Today was the day Bai Yuan and Yan Nanxing were to wed, but Yan Nanxing was prepared, having learned from her past abductions.

She secretly prepared a sedative, intending to drug everyone at the banquet. However, Jiang Xinbai had quietly followed her. Yan Nanxing refused to change into wedding attire, draped only in a red veil as she stood beside Bai Yuan for their ceremony. Seeing Jiang Xinbai's intervention, Yan Nanxing was relieved, though Jiang Xinbai misunderstood her motives. Desperate, she signaled him discreetly. Bai Yuan and Jiang Xinbai clashed immediately, but Yan Nanxing unexpectedly suggested they become friends.

Jiang Xinbai understood, clarifying the misunderstanding and discussing collaboration. Bai Yuan demanded Yan Nanxing as a condition, which Jiang Xinbai initially refused, prompting Bai Yuan to leave. Yan Nanxing, feeling indignant for giving Bai Yuan an eye, argued that without removing Yi Yuanshan, he would remain a threat to Bai Yuan. Convinced by Yan Nanxing's logic, Bai Yuan agreed. Jiang Xinbai cautioned Yan Nanxing against recklessness, shaken by recent events.

Yan Nanxing found Bai Yuan's peculiar behavior unsettling, knowing they must be cautious in their collaboration. Yi Yuanshan planned to transport Zornia Herb on the main road, where Jiang Xinbai and Bai Yuan laid an ambush. Hei Ao recognized the knife Bai Yuan wielded, linking her to the ambush on Nan Jifeng and Yao Qianshu. Bai Yuan killed Hei Ao herself, displeasing Jiang Xinbai, who needed her alive for verification.

Angered by the ambush's failure, Yi Yuanshan retaliated by capturing elderly and children from Bai Yuan's gang, proposing an exchange for Jiang Xinbai. Bai Yuan brought Jiang Xinbai to Yi Yuanshan's estate, staging a coup. Jiang Xinbai was injured, and Yan Nanxing carefully tended to him while Bai Yuan lurked nearby, causing tension. Despite Jiang Xinbai's displeasure, Yan Nanxing approached to administer medicine. Amidst these events, Yan Nanxing worried for Jiang Xinbai's safety, unaware of his reciprocal concern.

Jiang Suoluo witnessed Liu Ruoqian cleaning carelessly, causing him to nosebleed. Enraged, she advised him against such actions. During Yan Nanxing's absence, Liu Ruoqian informed her of Yan Nanxing's search for Jiang Xinbai. Tong Saier sought Shang Bieli for news of Yan Nanxing, proposing a new method to treat olfactory senses. Inadvertently, Tong Saier kissed Shang Bieli on the cheek, causing his heart to race. Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing prepared to escort Yi Yuanshan back to Beijing.

Bai Yuan came to bid farewell, secretly wishing to keep Yan Nanxing but honoring his promise for their safe departure. Bai Yuan presented Yan Nanxing with a shark bone as a parting gift. Jiang Xinbai hoped never to see Bai Yuan again, mindful of his official position versus Bai Yuan's status as a fugitive. They set off for Beijing, Jiang Xinbai inquiring about Yan Nanxing's recent gift with a hint of jealousy. Suddenly, arrows ambushed them on the road.

Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing fell into an ambush on their journey, unaware that Bai Yuan had orchestrated it to eliminate Yi Yuanshan. However, Bai Yuan spared the couple, seeing them as still useful. After surviving an assassination attempt, Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing woke up near a patch of Zornia herb, shocked that such evil could thrive in such a barren desert. Yan Nanxing tested the Zornia herb and found it unusually potent.

Upon awakening, Jiang Xinbai suffered severe headaches and unexpectedly saw the Yan Nanxing from his youth amidst the Zornia herb. She called him "Little Brother," and Yan Nanxing finally realized Jiang Xinbai's true identity—they were siblings! Overwhelmed with emotion, Yan Nanxing sobbed uncontrollably, relieved that he had not died. Jiang Xinbai confessed that he had recognized Yan Nanxing long ago but had been interrupted by fireworks when he intended to reveal the truth.

He vowed to avenge their father but wanted to protect Yan Nanxing from getting involved. They pledged never to hide anything from each other again and together set fire to the evil Zornia herb field, although their future path remained uncertain. Liu Ruoqian enjoyed his time at Jiang Suoluo's residence, but when he mentioned Yan Nanxing and Tong Saier, Jiang Suoluo felt uneasy. Liu Ruoqian clarified they were like family to him, whereas Jiang Suoluo was his mentor and friend.

Today, Jiang Suoluo was to attend the Empress's garden party, dressed elaborately for a potential matchmaking session, much to Liu Ruoqian's dismay. At the party, Yan Biqing tried to approach Jiang Suoluo, but Shang Bieli intercepted him. The Empress sought to arrange a marriage for Shang Bieli with Zhouyang County's daughter, a match he was hesitant to refuse. Jiang Suoluo quickly intervened. Yan Biqing, however, approached the Empress, claiming he and Jiang Suoluo were engaged and requesting immediate marriage approval.

The Empress nearly consented to a wedding next month, but Shang Bieli and Jiang Suoluo managed to delay it for two months. Dissatisfied with the proposal, Shang Bieli suggested following Jiang Xinbai's lead and secretly marrying. Liu Ruoqian was disheartened upon hearing about Jiang Suoluo and Yan Biqing's impending marriage at the Hanlin Academy. That evening, Jiang Suoluo sought out Liu Ruoqian for a conversation, though Liu Ruoqian refused to leave his room, communicating through the closed door.

Meanwhile, Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian encountered Shang Bieli and Jiang Suoluo together in the street, affecting Tong Saier's mood and altering her attitude towards Shang Bieli. Shang Bieli showed her a peach wood token, reminding her of their second promise—not to leave him even if her sense of smell returned. Both Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian harbored feelings they couldn't express, encouraging each other to pursue their emotions.

Tong Saier accidentally caught Shang Bieli in a compromising moment, blushing uncontrollably and instinctively avoiding him. Finally realizing her feelings for Shang Bieli, Tong Saier hesitated to confess. Bai Yuan discovered the shark bone he had gifted Yan Nanxing, confirming they had safely departed. Upon hearing of Yi Yuanshan's assassination, Yan Biqing and his son remained vigilant against Jiang Xinbai.

The Emperor commanded Jiang Xinbai to return to the Bureau of Police as Deputy Chief to investigate the Zornia herb and Yi Yuanshan's murder case thoroughly.

Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian were amazed to learn that Jiang Xinbai was Yan Nanxing's long-lost "Little Brother. " They envied their deep connection, a bond rarely seen even in dramas. Liu Ruoqian felt a mix of admiration and disappointment, realizing that not all lovers in the world could be together like this. Yan Nanxing couldn't understand what was troubling Liu Ruoqian. Tong Saier secretly informed her about Jiang Suoluo's situation.

Liu Ruoqian had lost weight during this time and appeared fragile. Jiang Xinbai learned from Jiang Zhiyi that Jiang Suoluo had been betrothed, with no way out. Jiang Xinbai reassured her not to worry, promising to find a solution. Yan Nanxing visited Jiang Suoluo as Liu Ruoqian's friend, noticing Liu Ruoqian's affection. She advised Jiang Suoluo that if she loved Liu Ruoqian, she should refuse the marriage proposal; if not, she should put an end to his hopes.

After their farewell, Yan Nanxing encountered Bai Yuan, who had promised to visit her. Yan Nanxing was embarrassed, not expecting him to take it seriously. Meanwhile, Jiang Suoluo witnessed their interaction, while Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian sensed trouble from Bai Yuan. Bai Yuan had left his criminal life and came to the capital to join Yan Nanxing at Huaxiangrong. Liu Ruoqian rushed to inform Jiang Xinbai but was intercepted by Tong Saier. Jiang Suoluo pondered Yan Nanxing's advice.

Liu Ruoqian had been avoiding her deliberately for some time; could it be that he actually liked her? Jiang Suoluo wanted to clarify things with him immediately but hesitated due to Yan Biqing's troublesome involvement. Liu Ruoqian intended to visit Jiang Suoluo but stopped when her room's light went out. Jiang Xinbai suggested Jiang Suoluo feign illness to temporarily leave the capital and evade the marriage proposal. Jiang Suoluo was reluctant, fearing it would ruin her career.

Seeing Jiang Xinbai so pleased with himself, she reminded him of Bai Yuan's old acquaintanceship with Huaxiangrong and cautioned him to remain vigilant. Bai Yuan became a partner at Huaxiangrong but initially showed no warmth to customers. However, Yan Nanxing soon recognized his value, knowing his presence would deter troublemakers. She decided to give Bai Yuan a probationary period of three months, to which he confidently agreed. Jiang Xinbai observed Huaxiangrong discreetly and met Bai Yuan alone.

Jiang Xinbai suspected Bai Yuan had impure motives coming to the capital but Bai Yuan assured him that Yan Nanxing trusted him. Frustrated, Jiang Xinbai had a whole fish banquet at noon, nearly upsetting vinegar jars. Yan Nanxing quickly pacified him. Bai Yuan had indeed been invited to the capital by Yan Biqing, armed with Zornia herb. He had no fear of Jiang Xinbai.

Yan Biqing asked Bai Yuan to kill Yan Nanxing, but Bai Yuan refused; she was his own person. Bai Yuchen brought ointment for Jiang Zhiyi and mockingly taunted Yan Nanxing. Bai Yuan stepped forward to intimidate her and defend Yan Nanxing's honor, noting she had never forgotten her medical ethics. Bai Yuchen maliciously discussed this with Jiang Zhiyi, who eagerly awaited Jiang Xinbai's jealousy. Yan Nanxing repeatedly rejected Bai Yuan's affections.

Jiang Xinbai came to take Yan Nanxing home and learned she was with Bai Yuan in the backyard. Jiang Xinbai stormed off, but Yan Nanxing declared her feelings, saying she would choose Jiang Xinbai even if given ten thousand chances. Jiang Xinbai wholeheartedly believed in Yan Nanxing, but Bai Yuan's nature remained concerning.

Liu Ruoqian packed his belongings early in the morning to bid farewell to Jiang Suoluo. He wanted to leave, but Jiang Suoluo disagreed. Wasn't he the one who said he belonged to her? Liu Ruoqian responded somewhat crestfallen; indeed, he belonged to Jiang Suoluo, but she had never claimed him as her own. Hearing this, Jiang Suoluo assertively kissed Liu Ruoqian. As they passionately kissed, Yan Biqing barged in with wedding attire.

Jiang Suoluo quickly hid Liu Ruoqian inside the room. Yan Biqing was cold towards her, but upon noticing Liu Ruoqian's belongings on the floor, he circled the room displeased. He asserted they were meant to be together forever, sanctioned by the Empress herself. Jiang Suoluo, furious, drove Yan Biqing away. After he left, Liu Ruoqian emerged tearfully from behind the screen, claiming he had exams at the Hanlin Academy and that Huaxiangrong was busy; he wouldn't come again from tomorrow.

Jiang Suoluo silently agreed to his departure. They loved each other but couldn't be together, suffering from the pain that overwhelmed them. Yan Biqing suspected Liu Ruoqian was hiding in Jiang Suoluo's room. Enraged, he returned home, but his father suggested he should be pleased because he now had leverage over Jiang Suoluo. She would listen to him and marry Yan Biqing. Jiang Xinbai learned that the Empress was matchmaking Shang Bieli with Princess Zhouyang.

The Empress would host a banquet tomorrow to facilitate their union. Shang Bieli would attend; it was easier to reject in person. Jiang Xinbai chuckled, offering his assistance. When Shang Bieli entered the palace in casual attire, Tong Saier hid nearby, swooning over him with joy. The Empress summoned Princess Zhouyang and Shang Bieli, leaving them alone shortly after. Shang Bieli intended to discuss Jiang Suoluo, but the Empress remained silent on the matter.

Jiang Xinbai visited Huaxiangrong to find Tong Saier, deliberately informing them about Shang Bieli's matchmaking. Tong Saier was crestfallen to learn that Shang Bieli dressed up so nicely for an arranged meeting. Yan Nanxing and Liu Ruoqian added fuel to the fire, hoping Tong Saier would face her feelings. They believed she would eventually understand their intentions. In the palace, Shang Bieli declined Princess Zhouyang, confessing his feelings for another.

Despite no engagement or promise between them, he wanted to treat her well and make her the happiest woman in the world. Princess Zhouyang understood and encouraged him to express his feelings to the one he loved, even offering to speak to the Empress herself. After leaving the palace, Shang Bieli went to Huaxiangrong. Liu Ruoqian exaggeratedly informed him that Tong Saier had left distraught, prompting Shang Bieli to hastily follow her.

In the forest, they stumbled upon a trap mechanism. Shang Bieli protected Tong Saier and expressed his feelings. His third wish was for her to be with him. Tong Saier and Shang Bieli finally clarified their relationship. Even if it were Princess Zhouyang, he might not have expressed his feelings so soon. In Shang Bieli's heart, Tong Saier was beautiful and smart, the best woman for him. Late at night, Yan Biqing and Bai Yuan discussed matters.

Yan Biqing was curious about Bai Yuan's relationship with Yan Nanxing, sensing Bai Yuan's lingering intentions. Jiang Xinbai mentioned Yan Nanxing hadn't transformed in a while; could she be pregnant? Before he finished speaking, Yan Nanxing transformed into a little boy. Jiang Xinbai sighed and helped her change clothes. Bai Yuan arrived just then to see Yan Nanxing. Jiang Xinbai held the child's hand, claiming Yan Nanxing was his and subtly warning Bai Yuan to keep his distance.

Jiang Xinbai had matters at the General Arrest Office but couldn't leave Yan Nanxing alone. He entrusted her to Jiang Suoluo's care, stating the child was his subordinate, narrowly avoiding suspicion from Jiang Suoluo about the child being his illegitimate offspring. It turned out that Jiang Xinbai's symptoms had worsened since his injury, and recently, his headaches had become increasingly severe. The situation was far from optimistic.

Little-child Yan Nanxing accompanied Jiang Suoluo, seeing her melancholy over her impending marriage. He offered to help, but Jiang Suoluo didn't take the child's words seriously. The next day, Jiang Suoluo had classes at the Hanlin Academy, and Yan Nanxing insisted on going with her. Reluctantly, Jiang Suoluo took him along. At the academy, Yan Nanxing pulled Liu Ruoqian aside to reveal his identity. Initially confused by the young boy, Liu Ruoqian soon realized it was Yan Nanxing transformed.

Yan Nanxing expressed his intention to help Liu Ruoqian pursue Jiang Suoluo, but Liu Ruoqian had to leave for class as the bell rang, warning him not to cause trouble. Yan Biqing informed Liu Ruoqian that Mr. Cui had opened a school in Yizhou and named him as a teacher. No one there would care about Liu Ruoqian's status as a slave.

Yan Biqing cautioned Liu Ruoqian not to desire what he couldn't have and exposed the situation at Jiang Suoluo's home. Liu Ruoqian repeatedly denied any involvement to protect Jiang Suoluo's reputation, but finally, unable to endure, he struck Yan Biqing. Yan Biqing claimed he only married Princess Yuejiang and didn't care how many lovers she had. Yan Nanxing quickly called Jiang Suoluo over, and upon witnessing Yan Biqing's harsh treatment, she even demanded he be publicly punished.

Liu Ruoqian removed his outer garments, and Jiang Suoluo chastised him with a ruler. Yan Nanxing tried to explain, but Jiang Suoluo had her reasons. Later, Jiang Suoluo explained to Liu Ruoqian privately that her actions were to minimize the situation. He absolutely couldn't leave the Hanlin Academy, but Liu Ruoqian had already decided to leave for Yizhou. Upset, Yan Nanxing went to confront Yan Biqing, overhearing him and Bai Yuan's conversation.

Shocked, Yan Nanxing quickly took Jiang Suoluo to Jiang Xinbai's home. As they arrived, Yan Nanxing realized something was amiss and rushed into the house, finding the child had turned back into an adult. Jiang Suoluo was still looking for the child from earlier, and Yan Nanxing awkwardly admitted that child was her, and moreover, her nephew from outside the family.

Learning about Yan Nanxing's transformations, Jiang Suoluo didn't find it strange but sympathized with the hardships she faced due to being framed. She reassured her that there would be a solution. Jiang Xinbai returned home and was surprised to find the two talking. Yan Nanxing informed Jiang Suoluo and Jiang Xinbai about what she had heard from Yan Biqing. Yan Biqing was cunning and dangerous, and their engagement couldn't continue.

Jiang Xinbai initially planned to dissolve their engagement the next day, but Jiang Suoluo feared it would alert their enemies and didn't agree. Bai Yuan might be crucial evidence, and Yao Qianshu informed Jiang Xinbai that "Zornia herb" had appeared in the capital again. Jiang Xinbai was shocked, realizing Bai Yuan had to be dealt with first. Yan Nanxing returned to Huaxiangrong, where Bai Yuan asked where she had been these past few days.

Yan Nanxing made up an excuse, feeling strangely emotional. Before leaving for Yizhou, Liu Ruoqian instructed Yan Nanxing to befriend Jiang Suoluo and take care of her, despite feeling unworthy to worry about them. Jiang Suoluo came to Huaxiangrong to find Liu Ruoqian, and Yan Nanxing informed her that he was leaving for Yizhou the next day, possibly never to return.

Jiang Suoluo sighed all day, feeling Liu Ruoqian's presence throughout the house, as if he were still by her side. Yan Nanxing escorted Liu Ruoqian off, and he entrusted his parents to her, leaving without saying goodbye to avoid upsetting his parents and Tong Saier. Jiang Suoluo rode up, and Liu Ruoqian was overjoyed to see her. Assertively, she pulled him onto the horse, and they rode off together, leaving Yan Nanxing smiling happily.

Jiang Suoluo returned home with Liu Ruoqian in a high-profile manner, determined to handle things properly before officially proposing to him. Shang Bieli regained his sense of smell, making Tong Saier very happy, though she inadvertently smelled "Zornia herb" from a passing carriage. Shang Bieli stopped the carriage and found the herb inside. Bai Yuan, upon hearing about it, sent his men back to Tingzhou, as he had other matters to attend to.

Unable to stand Yan Nanxing's persistence, he wanted to kill Yan Nanxing immediately. Shang Bieli informed Jiang Xinbai about the discovery of "Zornia herb," but they refused to reveal the mastermind behind it. Bai Yuan was wanted, so he ran to Yan Biqing for help, fearing implication. Yan Biqing could see through his intentions and warned him not to harm his own people, including Yan Nanxing. Yan Biqing wouldn't let Bai Yuan off lightly and sent assassins after him.

Yan Biqing informed the Second Master about the news of his pursuit and urged him to expedite shipments to ensure Bai Yuan's safety. The Second Master believed him and promptly agreed to his request. However, the Second Master was soon arrested, and Yao Qianshu was astonished to find items from Huaxiangrong on him. Yan Nanxing also discovered that her ointment contained "Zornia herb.

" Before she could inform Jiang Xinbai, Bai Yuan, being pursued, slipped into the house, forcing Yan Nanxing to hide him. The pursuers noticed blood on the doorknob and immediately informed Jiang Xinbai. Bai Yuan insisted that his feelings for Yan Nanxing were genuine, but now she was implicated with "Zornia herb," and Jiang Xinbai wouldn't want her. Bai Yuan attempted to take Yan Nanxing away but was rejected, losing control and knocking her unconscious.

Jiang Xinbai arrived at Huaxiangrong with his men, knowing Bai Yuan was ruthless and must not be provoked. Alone, Jiang Xinbai entered the house, finding Yan Nanxing unconscious and Bai Yuan in a frenzy, the situation dire. Suddenly, someone arrived, claiming Yan Nanxing was the instigator of the "Zornia herb" case, accusing Jiang Xinbai of sheltering criminals and demanding their immediate execution.

Chaos erupted with arrows flying as they clashed with the Bureau of Arrest, and Bai Yuan was shot by stray arrows while trying to protect Yan Nanxing. Before dying, he placed a gift into Yan Nanxing's hands, urging her not to lose it and revealing the mastermind behind the "Zornia herb" case. Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing fought their way out, facing pursuit from Master Yan. Shang Bieli arrived in time to stop them.

At the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion, Master Yan arrived under orders from the Emperor to arrest someone, but with the Prime Minister's intention, the mansion was temporarily sealed. Jiang Suoluo told Jiang Zhixi that Yan Nanxing had been poisoned with "Zornia herb" and couldn't possibly be the mastermind. Jiang Zhixi was shocked to learn she could transform, struggling to accept the revelation. Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian were captured, but Shang Bieli intervened to ensure their safety temporarily.

Liu Ruoqian worried about Jiang Suoluo but was prepared to die if it meant implicating himself with the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion. Tong Saier worried about Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing, trusting Shang Bieli to protect them, including Tong Saier herself. Shang Bieli interrogated the Second Master, who refused to disclose the truth, resorting to torture. Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing were wanted and sought refuge at Yan Nanxing's home, comforting each other.

Back home, Yan Nanxing found Phantom Physician unconscious, her pulse irregular from self-experimentation with medicine. Yan Nanxing blamed herself for causing this by testing the medicine. Phantom Physician claimed to have discovered a new medicine but needed ingredients, refusing to let Yan Nanxing off the hook for obtaining them. Jiang Xinbai's condition worsened, losing his senses gradually, intending to return Yan Nanxing to the capital but now forced to stay longer.

Shang Bieli brought Jiang Suoluo to see Liu Ruoqian, impressed by how well she cared for his parents. Liu Ruoqian couldn't help but shed tears, having waited for Jiang Suoluo's visit. Shang Bieli and Tong Saier could only meet across the prison, Shang Bieli regretting his inability to rescue her while Tong Saier showed maturity, though her tears couldn't be stopped. Yan Nanxing cared for Phantom Physician as she once cared for her, trying to soothe her to sleep.

However, the next day, Yan Nanxing transformed again suddenly, her transformations becoming increasingly erratic. Distraught, Yan Nanxing desperately wanted to revert to her true self so Phantom Physician could recognize her, prompting Yan Nanxing to burst into tears. Jiang Xinbai discovered Yan Nanxing transformed again, leaving Yao Qianshu utterly astonished and confused. Yan Nanxing noticed Jiang Xinbai's deteriorating condition, though his pulse seemed unchanged.

The mastermind behind Yan Biqing and his son turned out to be Pei Xiang, planning to lure Jiang Xinbai back and apprehend him, even torturing the imperial physician for the secret of Jiang Xinbai's prosopagnosia.

Yan Biqing led his men to track down Yan Nanxing and Jiang Xinbai, finding a house with smoke still rising. Yan Nanxing hadn't eaten for days, but Jiang Xinbai persuaded her to have some porridge. Phantom Physician also encouraged her to eat and went to speak with Jiang Xinbai. Yao Qianshu told Yan Nanxing that he was also on Ya Island when they were besieged, and later became Jiang Xinbai's follower, treating him like a younger brother.

He reassured Yan Nanxing that they would find a way to help her recover. Phantom Physician had finally accepted Jiang Xinbai as her son-in-law and handed him a letter, which surprised him greatly. It turned out that Yan Nanxing's biological mother was Phantom Physician's senior apprentice sister, whom she raised alone before meeting Yan Zhizhong. They had Yan Nanxing together, but Yan Zhizhong sacrificed himself to report to the Emperor about the Zornia herb case.

Yan Nanxing had always been frail, and one day, Phantom Physician returned from gathering herbs to find the village burnt down, with Yan Nanxing's parents perishing in the fire, having shielded Yan Nanxing to save her life. At just twelve years old, Phantom Physician cared for Yan Nanxing from then on, who called her "mother," believing she was adopted.

Phantom Physician had never approved of Yan Nanxing being with Jiang Xinbai, intending to separate them due to Yan Nanxing's parents' deaths being linked to Jiang Xinbai's father. However, seeing Jiang Xinbai's genuine care for Yan Nanxing these days softened her heart. Phantom Physician hoped Jiang Xinbai would protect Yan Nanxing for life, as he owed her that much, and instructed him to burn the letter, never to tell Yan Nanxing.

Yan Nanxing prayed fervently, hoping to revert to her original form soon, wanting to be herself again. Phantom Physician suddenly coughed up blood, sending Yan Nanxing running back inside in tears. Yao Qianshu discreetly informed Jiang Xinbai of Yan Biqing's trail, prompting Jiang Xinbai to use Yao Qianshu as a decoy to lure them, capturing them all at once. Yan Biqing had prepared a fake Yao Qianshu to test Jiang Xinbai and discovered he was indeed prosopagnosic.

Jiang Xinbai rushed to Yao Qianshu's aid upon realizing his danger, but Yao Qianshu, fatally injured, died protecting Jiang Xinbai. With her last breath, Phantom Physician told Yan Nanxing that no matter what form she took, she would recognize her at a glance, kissing Yan Nanxing's cheek before passing away. Yao Qianshu, covered in blood, died beside Jiang Xinbai, leaving both Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing bereaved and inconsolable. Jiang Xinbai and Yan Nanxing buried Yao Qianshu and Phantom Physician.

Jiang Xinbai chose to reveal the truth to Yan Nanxing: she wasn't an orphan; her father was Yan Zhizhong, who died investigating the Zornia herb case as they had previously discussed. Jiang Xinbai was devastated, feeling he owed Yan Nanxing too much. Jiang Xinbai showed Yan Nanxing the letter from Phantom Physician, proposing their separation; Yao Qianshu died because of him, unable to protect Yan Nanxing.

Jiang Xinbai intended to return to the capital for revenge, believing it was the only way to ensure Yan Nanxing's safety. From this day on, they were no longer husband and wife. Jiang Xinbai left alone, but Yan Nanxing harbored no resentment toward him, willing to trade her life for his safety. Jiang Xinbai's condition of losing his senses worsened, driving him to hasten resolving everything. Pei Linfu supplied spices to relieve his headaches on the Emperor's orders.

Pei Linfu secretly summoned Jiang Zhixi and her husband to his mansion, claiming the Emperor was furious and Jiang Xinbai's return, persuaded by Yan Qingyun, was the only solution. However, they disagreed, trusting Jiang Xinbai to have his reasons and plans. As they left Pei Linfu's mansion, Miss Bai returned to Pei Linfu, claiming Yan Nanxing was a shapeshifting monster involved in the Zornia herb case, influencing everyone at the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion.

Upon Yan Nanxing's return to the capital, she bravely admitted to profiting from Zornia herb with Bai Yuan, absolving others of involvement. Yan Nanxing was immediately imprisoned and met Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian in jail. Prepared for the worst, Yan Nanxing repeatedly urged them to survive. Pei Linfu decided to unseal the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion, giving them a glimmer of hope. Someone released smoke in the cell, causing everyone to pass out except for Yan Nanxing.

Yan Nanxing woke up again to find herself tied up, facing Pei Linfu and Miss Bai. She never expected that Pei Linfu, the mastermind behind the Zornia herb case, would betray the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion with Miss Bai! Miss Bai realized their medicine had no effect on Yan Nanxing and desperately wanted to know the transformation method. Pei Linfu instructed her to administer drugs and bleed Yan Nanxing, showing signs of madness.

Shang Bieli came to Jiang Xinbai with a note, informing him of Yao Qianshu's death. Jiang Xinbai sought revenge for Yao Qianshu but didn't want to involve Shang Bieli, who insisted on avenging his brother. Shang Bieli took Jiang Xinbai to meet the second-in-command of Bai Yuan's gang. The man claimed Jiang Xinbai wanted revenge for Bai Yuan's death. Jiang Xinbai clarified he didn't kill Bai Yuan; it was Yan Biqing and his son who did.

Before dying, Bai Yuan mentioned something in the Yan household. The second-in-command revealed they had Zornia herb, a precaution Bai Yuan took for himself. Jiang Xinbai pressed for other locations of Zornia herb, promising safety for Bai Yuan's people in return. Shang Bieli's men searched Yan Biqing's mansion and found Zornia herb. Yan Biqing and his son were arrested but remained unfazed, knowing they had Pei Linfu's protection.

Shang Bieli successfully rescued Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian but learned Yan Nanxing had disappeared after confessing. The Emperor, addicted to Pei Linfu's incense, remained unconscious. The Empress attempted to see him but was rejected, only for the Emperor to awaken and order Pei Linfu to adjust his incense. From that day on, only Pei Linfu was allowed into court, with all affairs entrusted to him. Shocked, the Empress witnessed this scene.

Pei Linfu, knowing Yan Biqing and his son were arrested, suspected Jiang Xinbai might have returned. Shang Bieli took Jiang Suoluo and Yan Qingyun to meet Jiang Xinbai, informing him the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion was unsealed due to Yan Nanxing's confession. Shang Bieli brought bad news: Yan Nanxing was missing. Jiang Xinbai wanted to meet them as they might know Yan Nanxing's whereabouts. Pei Linfu secretly met Yan Biqing and his son, who were now useless to him.

He gave them poisoned wine, forcing them to kill each other. Yan Biqing, pushed to confess by his father, killed him ruthlessly, unable to escape Pei Linfu's grasp. Shang Bieli and Jiang Xinbai found them dead and decided to face the Emperor. Despite being a criminal, Jiang Xinbai was taken to the Emperor by Shang Bieli, but the Emperor, still unconscious, allowed Pei Linfu to arrest Jiang Xinbai using his token. Shang Bieli was stripped of his command.

Leaving, Shang Bieli met the Empress, who suspected Pei Linfu's incense was poisonous and agreed to cooperate with Shang Bieli to save the Emperor. Jiang Xinbai, now bound by Pei Linfu, finally realized he was the mastermind behind the Zornia herb case and responsible for his father's death. Pei Linfu held Yan Nanxing and the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion hostage, demanding Jiang Xinbai reveal Yan Nanxing's transformation method.

Jiang Xinbai demanded to see Yan Nanxing, but Pei Linfu threatened him with the lives of the Jiang family. The Jiang family, terrified by Pei Linfu's true nature, especially Jiang Zhixi, wanted to confront him immediately. Miss Bai approached Yan Nanxing, trading places with her to let Yan Nanxing leave with Jiang Suoluo. Miss Bai, realizing Pei Linfu couldn't save the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion, informed Jiang Zhixi of her mistake, needing to atone for her wrongdoing.

By exchanging Yan Nanxing, making Pei Linfu believe Yan Nanxing had transformed into herself, they could ensure their safety. The Emperor's poisoning could only be cured by Yan Nanxing. Yan Nanxing worried about Miss Bai's life but she insisted on his departure. Yan Qingyun and Shang Bieli decided to force their way into the palace to aid Jiang Xinbai.

With Miss Bai's help, Yan Nanxing safely left the secret room under her identity. Shang Bieli led his comrades, ready to risk their lives, deciding to storm the palace with Yan Qingyun. Jiang Suoluo, assisting Yan Nanxing, informed her that Jiang Xinbai had been imprisoned in the dungeon. Now, saving the Emperor was their only chance to rescue Jiang Xinbai. Upon entering the palace, Jiang Suoluo and Yan Nanxing faced a search.

Insisting on uncovering Yan Nanxing's identity, they were saved by the Empress, who escorted them into the Emperor's bedchamber. Upon inspection, Yan Nanxing confirmed the presence of Zornia herb and decided to detoxify the Emperor with her own blood. Miss Bai pretended to be Yan Nanxing, but couldn't deceive Pei Linfu, who ruthlessly killed her. Yan Qingyun, accompanied by his brothers from the Headquarters and Imperial Guards, demanded an audience outside the city.

Seizing the opportunity, Shang Bieli entered the palace to rescue Jiang Xinbai. Meanwhile, Jiang Suoluo and Yan Nanxing saved the Emperor in the study, needing to act swiftly. The Emperor remained unconscious when Pei Linfu arrived to arrest them, now in complete control. Even if Yan Nanxing detoxified the Emperor, Pei Linfu could manipulate the truth. Shang Bieli and Jiang Xinbai barged in; after Pei Linfu took Yan Nanxing away, he ordered others to be killed.

Pei Linfu eagerly sought the transformation method, finding a vial on Yan Nanxing and forcing her to drink it, thinking it was the transformation potion. Jiang Suoluo protected the Empress, and just in time, Jiang Xinbai and Shang Bieli arrived to save them. The Emperor finally awakened. Yan Nanxing drank the potion prepared by Phantom Physician, lacking only the final ingredient; once consumed, she might never revert. Helpless, she escaped Pei Linfu's grasp.

When Jiang Xinbai and Shang Bieli arrived, Yan Nanxing had disappeared, leaving them no choice but to take Pei Linfu first. Yan Nanxing hid everywhere but unexpectedly encountered Jiang Xinbai on the main street. Before she could check his face, they were interrupted, and Yan Nanxing, awakened from her fantasy, hurriedly left. She might never return or be with Jiang Xinbai again. The Emperor ordered Pei Linfu's execution.

Jiang Xinbai captured the remnants of the Zornia herb case, punishing those who profited from it. Jiang Suoluo and her group safely returned to the Yuejiang Prince's Mansion. Jiang Xinbai went to find Yan Nanxing but didn't return. Liu Ruoqian and Tong Saier had been waiting for her and Shang Bieli for a long time, reluctant to part. Jiang Xinbai's senses deteriorated again, fainting in Yan Nanxing's home. After treatment, the physician assured them he would recover eventually.

Jiang Zhixi worried endlessly, still waiting for Yan Nanxing, believing he would wake up! Suddenly, Yan Nanxing felt a sharp pain. Was Jiang Xinbai in danger? She might never return to her former self, unable to stay by Jiang Xinbai's side anymore. This time, it was her turn to leave. Months later, Yan Nanxing, still in the guise of an old woman, struck fear into those who saw her in official boots.

She looked at her own face, filled with unbearable pain. Jiang Xinbai remained unconscious, with Jiang Zhixi by his side day and night, sending people to find Yan Nanxing. At the mention of Yan Nanxing's name, Jiang Xinbai finally showed signs of waking up. When he did wake, Jiang Xinbai could finally see his mother clearly. He recognized everyone's face except Yan Nanxing's. Jiang Xinbai revisited every place he and Yan Nanxing had been together. From their first meeting to now, Jiang Xinbai had never seen Yan Nanxing's true face. Despite being the most familiar stranger, wherever she was, they would be together in this life.

As soon as Jiang Xinbai's health improved, he decided to find Yan Nanxing. Tong Saier and Liu Ruoqian wanted to accompany him, but he insisted on going alone, saying only he could find her. Jiang Xinbai's first stop was the home of Phantom Physician and Yan Nanxing, where Yao Qianshu and Phantom Physician's cenotaphs were located. Jiang Xinbai told Yao Qianshu that his revenge had been fulfilled, the Zornia herb eradicated, which was surely what he wanted to see.

Jiang Xinbai always remembered Phantom Physician's words; he was determined to find Yan Nanxing. Whenever Yan Nanxing brushed past someone, she would think of Jiang Xinbai. So many figures resembled him, and memories resurfaced. Everywhere she went bore traces of Jiang Xinbai. Jiang Xinbai traveled to Yazhou, where Yan Nanxing once asked him to carry her in his heart day and night, but he had lost her.

Even without knowing her appearance, Jiang Xinbai vowed to find her in the vast sea of people. Living alone, Yan Nanxing set up a stall and still helped little beggars. On that day, Jiang Xinbai finally returned to where they first met and encountered a small beggar who helped him. The beggar made a hand gesture taught by Yan Nanxing, igniting hope in Jiang Xinbai. Following the beggar's directions, Jiang Xinbai went to the stall.

Yan Nanxing tried to flee upon seeing him, but Jiang Xinbai recognized her immediately. Their first meeting was by the river—truly heaven's arrangement. Jiang Xinbai understood her concerns; she feared she could never revert to her true self, but Jiang Xinbai didn't care! Yan Nanxing finally let out all her suppressed emotions, crying uncontrollably. She had missed Jiang Xinbai so much. Embracing, Yan Nanxing reverted to her original form.

Jiang Xinbai finally saw his beloved's face—she was even more beautiful than described. Back in the capital, Yan Nanxing married Jiang Xinbai, Jiang Suoluo married Liu Ruoqian, and Tong Saier married Shang Bieli. Yan Nanxing's grandfather personally officiated their wedding at Ruyi Fang, where they had significant ties. The three grooms had to find their brides from the flower palanquins. Shang Bieli hoped Jiang Zhixi would be fair, not expecting this idea was hers.

Liu Ruoqian volunteered to choose first, hesitating for a long time in front of the palanquins, then intentionally tricking Jiang Suoluo out. Jiang Suoluo worried Liu Ruoqian would climb into her palanquin, so she emerged hastily. Next, it was Jiang Xinbai and Shang Bieli's turn. Jiang Xinbai chose without hesitation, while Shang Bieli hesitated and eventually picked the same palanquin. They both claimed the other was wrong. To verify, Shang Bieli spoke deliberately, eventually finding Tong Saier's palanquin.

Yan Nanxing and Tong Saier then emerged, holding hands with their beloveds. Amid cheers, the three couples kissed amidst blessings. Yan Nanxing showed Jiang Xinbai all her transformation forms, explaining that sometimes, transformations weren't just bad and might even help him. Jiang Xinbai added a picture to the album—Yan Nanxing found by the river. Yan Nanxing hadn't transformed for a long time, possibly due to Phantom Physician's medicine. Perhaps Jiang Xinbai was the final ingredient, the key to their union.

No matter when, Jiang Xinbai would always find Yan Nanxing in the vast sea of people. Shang Bieli spent half a day in the kitchen making porridge for Tong Saier but forgot the rice, turning it into soup, and it was extremely salty. Nonetheless, as it was Shang Bieli's first meal for her, Tong Saier ate it happily.

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