Her Fantastic Adventures Recap, Plot, Synopsis

> Her Fantastic Adventures

Her Fantastic Adventures Synopsis

Discus athlete Qi Chunjiao experiences a series of breakdown events, including the abrupt end of her career, a failed first love confession, and estrangement from her mother. After a head injury, she unexpectedly becomes Gu Qingqiao, the daughter of a wealthy family in ancient times.

At the same time, her secret crush Duan Yu, his nephew Duan Shaoyi, her male confidant Lu Zizeng, and the team doctor Ruan Siqiong also transform into different identities and reconnect with her. During their legendary journey to search for the "Four Spirits" treasures, Qi Chunjiao gradually resolves her inner conflicts, learns to love, and finds a new direction in life.

Her Fantastic Adventures Recap

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Episode 1 Recap

Qi Chunjiao, a former javelin thrower, faced retirement due to a fractured arm. Driven by her father's last wish for her to stand on the podium, she wanted to compete despite her injury. However, Dr. Ruan informed her that her bone had not healed well and would require a long rehabilitation period, which would likely end her career in throwing events.

Her mother, Auntie Qi, insisted she return to training immediately, stressing that an athlete's golden years are few and she couldn't afford delays. She pressured Dr. Ruan to issue a health certificate allowing Chunjiao to return to training. Dr. Ruan stated he could not issue the certificate, and Chunjiao urged her mother not to make it difficult for him, confirming her decision to retire. Auntie Qi reacted with anger, asking how disappointed her father would be.

Chunjiao retorted that her father was gone and she should stop using his wish to manipulate her. During their heated argument, a plaque above the door fell. Chunjiao quickly pushed her mother aside but was struck herself. When she awoke, Qi Chunjiao found herself dressed in unfamiliar ancient clothing, surrounded by crying people. Initially disoriented, she thought she was on a film set and asked a maid, Dongxi, for her phone to call her mother.

Dongxi had never heard of a phone. Seeing the unfamiliar surroundings and clothing, Chunjiao became even more confused. Dongxi explained that they were attending her funeral; the doctor had pronounced her dead, and they had dressed her for burial. To their astonishment, she suddenly sat up in the coffin. Her father, Gu Xingwu, approached, expressing relief but confused by her lack of recognition, believing she was a stranger impersonating his dead daughter.

Gu Qingqiao, as she was now called, gradually realized she had transmigrated to ancient times. Uncomfortable in the heavy ancient attire, she changed clothes and attempted to leave the mansion, only to find numerous people blocking her path. She sternly ordered them to let her pass. Once on the main street, she observed the absence of modern technology like cameras, confirming her transmigration into the body of Gu Qingqiao.

She searched the mansion for a "time tunnel," hoping to find a way back to her original world. Missing modern comforts like beer and barbecue, she decided to make her own with Dongxi in the courtyard. She noticed their large courtyard was strangely empty. Dongxi explained that Gu Qingqiao's previous poor health led Gu Xingwu to instruct servants to stay away to ensure quiet recovery.

Now, after her sudden resurrection and apparent memory loss, people were afraid and avoided her, believing she was strange or foolish. Gu Qingqiao understood they thought she was crazy. The butler announced that Gu Xingwu had suddenly fainted. Gu Qingqiao, reacting instinctively with modern knowledge, asked for a doctor and mentioned calling emergency services before rushing to her father's side. A doctor examined Gu Xingwu, diagnosing him with weakness due to stress and requiring rest.

Gu Xingwu revealed he had made a great vow for Gu Qingqiao's health and now that she was well, he needed to fulfill it. Seeing his condition, Gu Qingqiao offered to go to Shangqing Temple on his behalf. Traveling to the temple, Gu Qingqiao learned that offering the first incense on the first day of the lunar month was particularly effective.

Determined to secure it, she hoped this place where she was brought back to life might also hold the key to returning home. While staying at the temple inn, she witnessed a dramatic chase involving a fugitive. Excited by the sight of real "flying skills," she watched, but the fugitive threw a tile at her. Annoyed, she retaliated by throwing a bronze mirror, hitting the fugitive and causing him to fall.

She later learned he was Tu Jia, the Right Guardian of the Mantra Sect, who had rebelled and was being pursued. Meanwhile, Duan Yu and his companion Xing Si were also present, planning to get the first incense. Xing Si identified the fugitive. The pursuit and an attack, which injured Xing Si, disrupted their plans, and they left the temple without offering incense.

On their journey back, Duan Yu and Xing Si encountered Ruoyun, the magistrate's daughter, and Xing Si was visibly captivated by her. Gu Qingqiao rushed past the crowds and successfully claimed the first incense. When she drew a lot, she received a blank one. Master Kongkong appeared, explaining that a blank lot is only drawn by someone not belonging to this world. She asked about her mother in her original world.

Master Kongkong assured her that her loved ones were safe, just like her current family, who were also now her family. He recognized a flower mark on her ankle, confirming her identity as the fated Star of Rebellion.

When Gu Qingqiao asked how to return home, Master Kongkong revealed that finding the "Four Treasures"—the Nine-turn melodious bell, the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, the Meridian Gate, and the Heavenly Pearl—could bridge the two worlds and open the gate of time and space, allowing her return.

He gave her cryptic lines related to finding the treasures and warned her that revealing her identity as the Star of Rebellion would bring her great danger and could result in her randomly traveling to an unknown place if the time gate was unstable. Returning home by carriage, Gu Qingqiao's journey was interrupted at a checkpoint where soldiers were searching for the fugitive. The soldiers demanded she step out for inspection.

A person suddenly emerged, attempting to stop her from complying, claiming her noble status as the daughter of the Changqing Chamber of Commerce vice president exempted her from search. The soldiers insisted, stating merchants' daughters must cooperate. Gu Qingqiao, using surprising strength and agility, subdued the person preventing her inspection and realized it was the same fugitive, Tu Jia, who had thrown the tile at her earlier.

Episode 2 Recap

In modern times, Qi Chunjiao was with her childhood friend, Lu Zizheng, who commented on her lipstick and told her to be normal and wipe it off, saying it didn't suit her. Lu Zizheng told her they could be friends for a long time because she was nothing like a girl, and he advised her not to try to change for him, look at him in a certain way, or fall for him, because he would not change his mind.

Qi Chunjiao then revealed that she did like someone, but it was not him. He asked if her team knew, and she said it was currently just a crush. He suggested she could retire if they found out. As he left, he told her to let him know if her crush succeeded and he would buy her skewers and beer, and she reminded him to transfer money to her.

Later, arriving in Changqing, Gu Qingqiao saw a fugitive being pursued by soldiers and, mistaking him for the Lu Zizheng from her own time, told him to stay hidden in her carriage. Stepping out, she confronted the soldiers who insisted on inspection, arguing against their notion that merchants were at the bottom of society.

She passionately declared that everyone was equal before the law, pointing out the essential role of merchants in providing weapons, food, and clothing, and supporting the city's population. She highlighted the hardships merchants faced, like working until 3 AM and suffering physical ailments, questioning how the soldier could look down on them while wearing clothes and armor made by merchants. Her speech garnered praise from bystanders.

Observing the scene, Duan Yu inquired about her identity and was told she was Miss Gu, the daughter of the owner of Qingfeng Restaurant, and had also been the one to get the first incense at Shangqing Temple, accompanied by strange phenomena in the sky. He ordered the soldiers to let her pass but instructed them to keep an eye on her. Gu Qingqiao secretly brought the fugitive into the wine cellar of her residence.

Seeing he was wounded by an arrow and bleeding heavily, she became worried, fearing he might die soon after arriving. He remarked on being carried by a woman. She wanted to call a doctor, but he stopped her, explaining that bringing a doctor would expose him and negate her effort to save him. Realizing this, she used wine from the cellar to disinfect his wound.

He noted her genuine concern, and she replied that anyone would be anxious seeing someone bleed so much. She asked if it hurt, and he said no, but she sensed he was pretending. He asked her to help remove the arrow. Seeing his back covered in scars, she asked where they came from, saying she had never seen them before. He responded by asking if she had known him before.

As they argued over who was confused, he urged her to quickly pull out the arrow, explaining that the Qilin Bow's arrow carried the Duan family's power and would injure his meridians if not removed, causing him to die faster. He told her his life was in her hands. Fearing he would die, she poured herself some wine, drank it, and pulled the arrow. Afterward, she told him he needed to recover and asked what he wanted to eat.

He requested beef noodles without scallions, and she agreed to make them. Gu Qingqiao proceeded to the kitchen to make the noodles, surprising her maid, Dongxi, with her cooking ability. She also asked Dongxi to get some blood for a 'bloody tofu' recipe, which Dongxi found disgusting but complied, getting help from the chef. Back in the cellar, Gu Qingqiao told the fugitive to eat and stay put.

She briefly intercepted the butler, who was holding a peach wood sword and amulets and planning to find a Taoist priest because she had come back to life. She jokingly threatened to eat him if she were a monster and got him to give her the cellar key temporarily, also asking him to deliver a bowl of noodles she had made for her father, Gu Xingwu.

The fugitive finished the noodles and praised them as the most delicious he had ever eaten, saying "a bowl of these noodles is all I need in life." Gu Qingqiao called him crazy, saying he had eaten them before. She asked him how he had "crossed over," a term he didn't understand. When she asked about his scars again, specifically mentioning she hadn't seen them when they used to "swim," he asked what "swim" was.

He kept referring to her as Miss Gu. When she pressed him, he swore he was not Lu Zizheng, not from another place, and didn't know what "pretending" was. He then spoke of a "Star of Rebellion" that could connect worlds and bring people from elsewhere, mentioning that the scattered Four Treasures would be found through detachment from love and hate.

He stressed the need to keep the Star of Rebellion's identity secret to avoid death and being trapped in another space. Gu Qingqiao later brought him clothes and haemostatic medicine, but he revealed his large shoulder wound had already healed. He attributed his calm demeanor to learning it from her yesterday and said he would try to talk like her so she could see him as the real Lu Zizheng.

Remarking that anything seemed possible in this world, she asked why he was being pursued by the government. He confessed he had stolen a treasure from the Mantra Sect and advised her not to get too involved in martial arts world matters. She asked when he planned to leave Changqing, suggesting it was too dangerous, and he said he would wait for things to cool down.

Knowing he was a martial artist, she asked if he knew about the Four Treasures. He asked why she was asking, and she replied he was the only friend she had to ask. He agreed to inquire for her. At the Changqing Chamber of Commerce, Duan Yu gathered the merchants and conveyed the magistrate's request for their assistance in capturing Mantra cultists.

One merchant, Manager Yang from Chunfeng Restaurant, protested that this was the government's responsibility and outside the Chamber's purview. Duan Yu then had account books presented, revealing that Chunfeng Restaurant had reported low taxes despite high revenue, implying significant tax evasion. Confronted with the evidence, Manager Yang quickly changed his stance and enthusiastically supported assisting the government. Duan Yu agreed and said they would discuss the account matters later. Back at home, Gu Xingwu was troubled.

Gu Qingqiao asked him what was wrong. He explained the added burden of cooperating with the government to catch cultists, on top of competing with Chunfeng Restaurant, which had shifted to vegetarian cuisine to rival their meat dishes. Gu Qingqiao found it strange that a vegetarian restaurant could pose such a challenge to a meat one and decided to visit Chunfeng Restaurant herself. Gu Qingqiao and Dongxi visited Chunfeng Restaurant.

Commenting on the atmosphere, Gu Qingqiao opted to sit in the lobby and asked for the menu, finding it hung too far away. She joked about needing a telescope before asking for their specialties. After trying the food, she found the elbow not tender, the duck fishy, and the braised pork greasy. She concluded that this explained why they were losing to the vegetarian restaurant. As they left, she told Dongxi to get the food packed up to avoid waste.

Back in the wine cellar, the fugitive, whom Gu Qingqiao now referred to as Lu Zizheng, was present, his injuries fully healed. He explained he just wanted to see what she was doing since Dongxi was out. Gu Qingqiao clarified that Dongxi was outside guarding. He questioned her trust in Dongxi. Gu Qingqiao stated that in her home, only Dongxi and her father were not afraid of her returning from the grave, and she didn't want them implicated.

She added that he was the only person she knew here and she didn't want him caught either, but his presence made him like a "bomb," something that could explode. Later, Gu Qingqiao proposed an idea to Gu Xingwu to revitalize Qingfeng Restaurant's business: a food festival showcasing local delicacies with Qingfeng Restaurant as the main venue. Gu Xingwu liked the idea as a way to boost business.

He presented the idea to Duan Yu, framing it as a way to increase the Chamber's visibility and promote merchant businesses. Duan Yu thought it was a good initiative. Gu Xingwu mentioned it was his daughter's idea and praised her cooking, then invited Duan Yu for a family meal. Duan Yu accepted. Duan Yu's attendant, Xing Si, expressed concern that the food festival might distract from the urgent task of capturing the Mantra cultists and potentially displease Magistrate Du.

Duan Yu mused that Miss Gu was no ordinary woman, citing the strange events at Shangqing Temple and her actions at the city gate, and ordered Xing Si to investigate her discreetly.

Back home, Gu Xingwu instructed the butler to take the cultist situation seriously but also to ensure that any maid considered even slightly attractive was kept away from Duan Yu during his visit, explaining that he wanted to create an opportunity for Duan Yu to notice Gu Qingqiao, hoping to match them because Duan Yu was a good match and Gu Qingqiao deserved happiness after her return from death.

Gu Qingqiao taught the cook how to make her signature braised pork, emphasizing the importance of caramelizing the sugar and calling it her family's secret recipe. She declared that if Chunfeng Restaurant focused on vegetarian dishes, Qingfeng Restaurant would focus on meat to defeat them. Duan Yu arrived for the dinner. Gu Xingwu welcomed him warmly, offering a lavish spread featuring the braised pork, which Gu Qingqiao had named "So Delicious It Makes You Cry Braised Pork."

Duan Yu found the dish unique and delicious. They discussed the food festival proposal again. Duan Yu then requested to visit the kitchen to see how the braised pork was made, claiming it was for the sake of promoting the food festival. Gu Xingwu happily agreed and led him there.

In the kitchen, upon seeing Duan Yu, Gu Qingqiao was reminded of a moment in modern times when she was at a train station and he told her he was going abroad for graduate studies and likely wouldn't return, stating his decisions wouldn't change for anyone. Disturbed, Gu Qingqiao told him not to come closer, saying she looked terrible and hadn't washed her hair.

She asked why he was here instead of studying abroad, recalling his words about not easily giving up his plans or changing for anyone. Duan Yu seemed confused and asked if she had mistaken him for someone else, stating they had never met. She insisted she could recognize him even if he turned to ash. As she turned away from him, she accidentally knocked the pot of braised pork off the counter and onto her leg.

Duan Yu quickly caught her and placed her foot in a bucket of water. At that moment, Gu Xingwu entered the kitchen and saw them, expressing surprise and concern about their closeness when he had explicitly wanted Duan Yu to view the kitchen without interruption. He declared it inappropriate and claimed they had had "skin contact."

Gu Qingqiao tried to check her foot, but Dongxi, who had also arrived, stopped her, explaining that a woman's feet could only be seen by her husband, a custom Gu Qingqiao found baffling. Gu Xingwu, seeing an opportunity, told Duan Yu that since he had seen and held his daughter's foot, they had had skin contact, implying she could no longer marry anyone else and effectively pushing for a marriage proposal.

Xing Si quickly interjected, stating his master had neither seen nor touched her, denying any skin contact. He added that many men wanted to marry the talented and beautiful Miss Gu. Gu Xingwu insisted Duan Yu had seen her foot and held her, asking if he was forcing them to propose. Duan Yu stopped Xing Si from speaking further and hastily took his leave, bidding farewell.

That night, Gu Qingqiao was lost in thought, reciting ancient texts and pondering the strange turn of events – being rejected by Duan Yu in modern times and seemingly reunited with him in this world. She wondered if this was her moment of destiny. Lu Zizheng called out to her from the cellar entrance, interrupting her thoughts and asking what she was thinking about.

She tried to send him away, but he requested a hot bath, complaining that the damp cellar was giving him rashes. Sighing, she agreed, wondering what debt she owed him. She asked when he planned to leave. He asked about Dongxi, and she said Dongxi was on guard duty. He asked about her trust in Dongxi.

Gu Qingqiao explained that in her home, only Dongxi and her father were not scared that she had come back from the coffin, and she didn't want them to get into trouble. She added that he was the only person she knew in this world, and she didn't want him to be caught, but his presence made him a "bomb," something that could explode. She left him to soak in the bath and went outside for air.

Dongxi found her talking to the moon and noticed she was crying. Gu Qingqiao tearfully asked why Dongxi wasn't afraid of her like everyone else. Dongxi comforted her, saying that coming back to life was a good thing and that the monks at Shangqing Temple said only good people could return to life. Gu Qingqiao called Dongxi sweet and noted that she always told different lies. Dongxi promised to take good care of her, protect her, and stay with her for a long time. Gu Qingqiao thanked her.

Episode 3 Recap

Sent to Jizhou Academy for being restless, Shaoyi was also to have a tailor make clothes for Miss Gu, as instructed by Duan Yu. Xing Si was surprised, asking if Duan Yu genuinely intended to propose to Miss Gu. Duan Yu clarified that the idea of a proposal came from Xing Si, not him, and stated he had his own judgment on whether he and Miss Gu were suitable, despite Xing Si's opinion that they were not a good match.

Gu Xingwu informed Gu Qingqiao that Duan Yu had invited her to the Duan Residence to have clothes made. Gu Qingqiao questioned why she needed to go there just for measurements and fitting. Gu Xingwu explained that although a formal proposal hadn't been made, it was likely, and she needed to put in effort.

He urged her to seize this opportunity, calling it a "chance" after a significant past incident had made few men in Changqing willing to propose to her. Gu Qingqiao felt hesitant about being too forward, but her father emphasized the importance of her getting married. He saw the visit as the perfect opportunity to turn a potential proposal into a definite one, framing it as a way to resolve past emotional baggage.

Shaoyi brought novels to Ruoyun, telling her he might be leaving for Jizhou Academy for a while. Ruoyun was disappointed, feeling she would lose a playmate, but Shaoyi promised to write. Ruoyun was evidently hoping Gu Qingqiao would become Shaoyi's aunt, which would mean marrying Duan Yu. Gu Qingqiao sought out Madam Zhang at home to borrow cosmetics.

She then applied a drastically ugly makeup to Lu Zizheng, commenting that with such a look, he could walk around Changqing openly and no one would recognize him. Lu Zizheng questioned why she liked Duan Yu. Gu Qingqiao stated there was no specific reason, simply that liking him was her wish for two lifetimes. Knowing Gu Qingqiao was going to the Duan Residence, Dongxi offered to do her makeup so she could look her best.

Gu Qingqiao, however, said she wasn't used to makeup, only typically wearing a natural look with lipstick. Dongxi offered to find her a face veil instead, which Gu Qingqiao considered. Wearing a face veil, Gu Qingqiao arrived at the Duan Residence. Duan Yu observed her carefully and instructed all the servants to turn away so they wouldn't look at her. Gu Qingqiao explained that she had put on makeup, but only for him to see.

Duan Yu told her she looked beautiful with or without makeup and that she was more suited without the veil. Pleased by his words, which she described as having high EQ/IQ, Gu Qingqiao removed the veil. Duan Yu gave Gu Qingqiao a tour of the Duan Residence, explaining that the family's prominence came from the Qilin Bow and recounting their deep enmity with the Sacred Blood Sect.

He revealed his father, Duan Sheng, had been fatally ambushed by the Sacred Blood Sect leader fifteen years prior, and his elder brother, Duan Yan, was injured protecting him. He then led her to the family shrine. Gu Qingqiao, mistakenly thinking he was introducing her to his family, knelt and made wishes aloud, praying for a long and happy life together with Duan Yu and for them to have children soon.

Duan Yu gently corrected her, noting that his brother was still alive and that having children might be a bit premature. When Gu Qingqiao asked if he had met her before, Duan Yu confirmed their first meeting was at the Gu Residence. Gu Qingqiao pressed him, asking why he would propose at their first meeting; he again attributed the idea to Xing Si. She then asked if he couldn't see it as a special connection between them.

Duan Yu agreed, calling her a very special girl. Gu Qingqiao expressed that this was the nicest thing anyone had said to her since she arrived in Changqing, calling him "slick and sly," which she defined as being very smart and tactful. Duan Yu returned the compliment, calling her a very slick and sly girl as well. Later, while they were on a boat, they encountered assassins. During the struggle, Gu Qingqiao fell into the lake.

Duan Yu quickly pulled her out, but she lost one of her shoes. Duan Yu offered to help her put it back on. Gu Qingqiao hesitated, mentioning the custom that a man shouldn't see a woman's feet before marriage, but admitted the main reason was that she was ticklish and preferred to put it on herself. At this point, the tailor arrived to take her measurements.

Gu Qingqiao suggested it wasn't necessary to measure her directly and offered to have Dongxi send over one of her existing dresses for the tailor to use as a reference for size. Unknown to Gu Qingqiao at the time, the events of the day were part of a test by Duan Yu.

He had deliberately misidentified a Sacred Blood Sect weapon and brought up the sect's history, and even the incident on the boat where she fell into the water was planned. His intention was to check her feet for a potential mark. He had also instructed Xing Si to gather information about her from Doctor Dong, who had treated her.

Duan Yu initially suspected Gu Qingqiao might be connected to the Sacred Blood Sect, later hypothesizing she could be the "Star of Rebellion," a figure prophesied to help restore the Sacred Blood Sect and bring about the downfall of the Duan family. This suspicion was heightened after she took the first incense at Shangqing Temple, followed by unusual celestial phenomena. However, the day's tests yielded no definitive proof.

Doctor Dong confirmed to Xing Si that Gu Qingqiao had indeed been gravely ill, died, and then revived, but seemed to have forgotten her past and talked strangely. The Wuyi Guards who were part of the staged attack on the boat reported that she showed no signs of internal strength. Duan Yu concluded that she appeared to be an ordinary woman, seemingly uninterested in martial arts factions or the Sacred Blood Sect.

Given the lack of evidence from his tests, Duan Yu considered the possibility that Gu Qingqiao might be "playing dumb but is actually very clever." Lu Zizheng sought out Gu Qingqiao, expressing annoyance that she seemed to have forgotten him after meeting Duan Yu. He eventually told her he knew the whereabouts of the "Four Treasures." He then produced an item he claimed was the Mantra Sect's sacred artifact, the Nine-turn melodious bell.

Gu Qingqiao immediately recognized it as her electronic watch. Lu Zizheng insisted it was the ancient artifact, pointing out its changing patterns and magical speaking ability ("Now is Beijing time. . ." ), claiming such functions were proof of its extraterrestrial origin, and noting its unique texture was neither leather nor metal. Gu Qingqiao countered that the texture was just plastic.

He offered her the bell, but only if she agreed to do something for him, implying it was not a simple favor. Meanwhile, Qingfeng Restaurant's business was flourishing thanks to Gu Qingqiao's innovations. Manager Yang Chunfeng of Chunfeng Restaurant visited Gu Xingwu, acknowledging Qingfeng's success but suggesting the upcoming food festival should be held at his long-established Chunfeng Restaurant, implying his venue was more suitable and the chairman would agree.

Gu Xingwu expressed concern that if the festival was held at Chunfeng, their efforts would benefit a rival. Gu Qingqiao reassured her father, stating he shouldn't worry and that Duan Yu would not agree to Manager Yang's proposal because of her. Gu Qingqiao met with Duan Yu and proposed a strategy for the food festival. She suggested they could use the festival as an opportunity to capture the Mantra Sect's Right Guardian and other members.

Her plan involved spreading a rumor that the Right Guardian intended to surrender to the government during the festival, which would lure him and other Mantra Sect members to the location, allowing the authorities to apprehend them amidst the crowds.

She insisted the festival must be held at Qingfeng Restaurant, explaining it was the ideal location due to its strategic layout: the spacious front suitable for plainclothes officers to blend in, and the narrow, winding back alleys and uneven rooftops perfect for ambushes and surveillance. Duan Yu agreed to the plan, acknowledging his initial reservations about holding such an event during a time of unrest but seeing the potential to capture the Mantra Sect members.

Gu Xingwu worried about the potential risks of the plan, especially involving the dangerous Mantra Sect, and the possibility of the event failing, which could harm their family's reputation and livelihood, affecting Gu Qingqiao's marriage prospects. Gu Qingqiao comforted him, assuring him that she had discussed the plan with Duan Yu and it would not be dangerous.

She encouraged her father not to worry, quoting adages about overcoming difficulties and having more solutions than problems, reminding him of the importance of believing in oneself and not giving up, referencing motivational words she seemed to recall from her father from a past life or memory. She declared this was an opportunity for Qingfeng Restaurant to become famous and that they must seize it.

She embraced him, stating that now she had grown up, it was her turn to protect him after all his sacrifices for her. Gu Qingqiao proceeded with training the Qingfeng Restaurant staff. She had the delivery team practice their motto while dressed in oilskin coats and rain hats, emphasizing their service was "super fast" in any weather and their slogan was "The Glory of Meat."

She also trained the kitchen staff to master "The Glory of Meat" recipes, aiming for "person and dish become one," asking if they could become the best chefs and conquer every diner. A staff member questioned Da's suitability as head chef, noting his poor speaking skills. Gu Qingqiao dismissed the objection, stating that speaking ability was irrelevant to cooking, and had Da demonstrate his culinary skills, which impressed everyone.

She also trained the staff on buffet planning, explaining concepts like separating cold and hot dishes, desserts, and beverages, and "action planning" or mapping customer flow. She introduced tiered pricing with top-up bonuses tied to accessing silver private boxes or gold suites. Gu Xingwu expressed concern about the significant investment in preparations, questioning if they would recoup the costs. Gu Qingqiao responded with proverbs about taking risks to achieve big rewards.

Episode 4 Recap

At Qingfeng Restaurant, which is undergoing renovation for a food festival, Ruoyun, accompanied by her maid Yuanhua, expresses interest in securing a private room upstairs. Initially frustrated by the disruption, she is eventually admitted. Gu Qingqiao, who is overseeing the operation, explains that access to the upstairs private rooms requires a deposit to become a member. Ruoyun, mentioning her connection to "Chairman Duan Yu" of the Changqing Chamber of Commerce, requests a fair price.

Gu Qingqiao agrees to grant her "gold member" status for a deposit of three thousand taels for Chairman Duan's sake, noting that others must deposit at least five thousand. After paying, Ruoyun tells Yuanhua that she deliberately inflated the price for other female guests who mention Chairman Duan's name. She then expresses excitement about the membership, believing it ensures she will dine with "Brother Duan Yu" at the food festival, and decides they should go to the bookstore.

At the bookstore, Ruoyun is eager to find the latest book by her favorite author, Mr. Si, particularly the sequel to "The Young Master Loves Me." Xing Si arrives at the bookstore to deliver the new books. In a moment of carelessness, he knocks over a shelf, accidentally mixing his original manuscript into the pile. Ruoyun discovers his original manuscript, believing it to be the sequel, and is overjoyed, purchasing it for one tael.

Later, when the manager pays Xing Si, he reports losing his original manuscript. Surprised, the manager questions how this could happen, and Xing Si replies that he lost his heart, indicating his feelings for Ruoyun. Prior to the food festival, Xing Si discusses Gu Qingqiao with Duan Yu's assistant. He suggests that as part of the process for a potential marriage proposal, they should find an official matchmaker to obtain Gu Qingqiao's eight characters.

He believes this could be a way to indirectly investigate if she is the "Star of Rebellion." He also muses on whether Gu Qingqiao might already sense their suspicions about her identity and whether her organization of the food festival could be a calculated move to conceal who she is. He notes that Gu Qingqiao generally appears kind and speaks warmly whenever she encounters Duan Yu. Before the food festival, Gu Qingqiao speaks with Lu Zizheng, calling him by name.

She asks him if he understands the concept of a "sense of unreality" and describes what she calls "childhood friends"—people who grow up together, tease each other, but remain lifelong close companions. She reveals that she partially organized the large food festival for him, viewing him as a familiar face in a distant place and wanting to help him navigate danger. They banter, with him calling her overly emotional and she calling him arrogant and annoying.

Gu Qingqiao then reveals she knows his identity, telling him she knew he wasn't the person she initially mistook him for because that other person would have been too stingy to let her off the hook for money owed. They part ways, agreeing not to meet the next day, with Lu Zizheng promising good news. Gu Qingqiao is seen diligently embroidering a pouch, pricking her fingers as she works, mentioning it is her first time doing needlework.

She gives the finished pouch to Xing Si to deliver to Duan Yu, again referencing her inexperience. Xing Si delivers the pouch and tells Duan Yu's assistant that Gu Qingqiao seems like a good person, expressing his hope that she is not the Star of Rebellion. Regardless, Duan Yu instructs his Wuyi Guards to closely monitor Gu Qingqiao during the food festival and apprehend her immediately if she displays any suspicious actions.

Meanwhile, Gu Qingqiao's father, Gu Xingwu, expresses sadness that his daughter's eight characters ("庚帖") have been taken away, feeling as though something has been hollowed out. Gu Qingqiao comforts him, telling him not to be sad about the eight characters or worry about the food festival. She repeatedly calls him "Dad," which brings him great happiness. On the day of the food festival, Qingfeng Restaurant is filled with activity.

Magistrate Du arrives and is welcomed by Gu Qingqiao, the daughter of Gu Xingwu, who the magistrate praises for her resourcefulness. Upstairs, Magistrate Du and Duan Yu finalize plans to capture Mantra Sect members who have infiltrated the event. They have identified suspicious individuals at street entrances and positioned Wuyi Guards among the staff and guests. Ruoyun unexpectedly arrives with Shaoyi, causing concern for Duan Yu, who sees them as potentially jeopardizing the operation.

He orders Shaoyi to be tied up and sent back to Jizhou Academy and instructs Xing Si to ensure Ruoyun's safety. While trying to manage Ruoyun, who is determined to see Duan Yu, Xing Si is bitten by her. In the kitchen, Gu Qingqiao oversees the preparation of a special dish called "Sword Roast Whole Lamb," even borrowing a sword for the process.

Mantra Sect members are present, intending to capture the Right Guardian, who they believe is surrendering, and recover a sacred object. Duan Yu and Magistrate Du observe a man disguised as the Right Guardian, used as bait. The trap is sprung, and a chaotic fight breaks out as the cultists are identified. Most of the Mantra Sect members are captured, with some taking poison rather than being taken alive.

One cultist manages to escape into the kitchen, briefly clashing with a cook before using a powder to create a diversion and flee. This escaping cultist then encounters Ruoyun and takes her hostage, demanding safe passage. As he threatens Ruoyun, Gu Qingqiao, wielding a roasted lamb leg, strikes the cultist, providing Ruoyun an opportunity to escape. The cultist throws another cloud of powder and makes his final escape.

Xing Si reports to Duan Yu that all cultists have been apprehended except for the one who escaped. Following the incident, disgruntled customers complain about the chaos and demand compensation, questioning whether Gu Qingqiao had prior knowledge of the events. Duan Yu steps forward and publicly accepts responsibility for the disruption. Later, back at the mansion, Gu Qingqiao calls out for Lu Zizheng, reminding him that he promised to return her electronic watch if the Mantra Sect members were caught.

He appears and gives her the watch. He warns her that possessing it means her life will no longer be ordinary and that the world will be thrown into turmoil. He also tells her to protect herself and the watch, revealing it is the "Nine-turn melodious bell," a sacred object of the Mantra Sect, whose discovery by others, especially her future husband Duan Yu, could lead to danger. Gu Qingqiao insists that the item is now hers.

As he prepares to leave, she asks his real name. He replies that since the name "Lu Zizheng" is so important to her, he will call himself Lu Zizheng from now on. They exchange a high-five before he departs. However, Duan Yu had been tracking Lu Zizheng and had set an ambush near the mansion. Just as Lu Zizheng leaves, Gu Qingqiao is struck and injured by an arrow fired from Duan Yu's Qilin Bow. Lu Zizheng is also wounded.

Realizing Duan Yu likely followed her to find Lu Zizheng, Gu Qingqiao quickly instructs Lu Zizheng to pretend to kidnap her to create a distraction for his escape. To make the act convincing, Lu Zizheng deliberately cuts Gu Qingqiao with a dagger and holds it to her throat, threatening to kill her if Duan Yu does not order his men to retreat. Seeing Ruoyun in danger, Duan Yu orders his forces to withdraw.

Lu Zizheng assures Gu Qingqiao that her wound is not immediately life-threatening. Once Duan Yu's men have retreated, Lu Zizheng releases Gu Qingqiao and escapes. Gu Qingqiao then collapses and faints.

Episode 5 Recap

Gu Qingqiao woke from a dream where she was undergoing rigorous training with her parents, feeling the warmth of their encouragement and concern for her safety. Upon waking in her current reality, she felt a pang of sadness, wondering who would take care of simple tasks like changing her mother's gas bottle back home. Meanwhile, Duan Yu expressed frustration that the Right Guardian who attacked Gu Qingqiao at the Gu residence had escaped.

He noted that the Right Guardian's ability to move freely within Qingfeng Restaurant suggested he was a formidable opponent. Xing Si reported that Gu Qingqiao had woken up and was unharmed, though frightened. Duan Yu then instructed Xing Si to take several dozen Wuyi Guards to the Gu residence to protect Gu Qingqiao, citing concerns about the Mantra Sect remnants. At the Gu residence, Gu Qingqiao was delighted by the large contingent of Wuyi Guards sent to protect her.

She spoke with Xing Si, inquiring about the relationship between Duan Yu and Magistrate Du's daughter, Ruoyun. Xing Si stated he didn't know much but assured Gu Qingqiao that Young Master Duan's heart belonged only to her. Pleased, Gu Qingqiao instructed her maid Dongxi to give Xing Si a silver VIP card for Qingfeng Restaurant.

She mused to herself about the unexpected complexity of her situation, acknowledging she needed to take things seriously now and hoped her father was looking after her mother. Shortly after, Ruoyun arrived at the Gu residence with Shaoyi to thank Gu Qingqiao for saving her life at the food festival. Shaoyi had heard that Gu Qingqiao was eager to marry his uncle, Duan Yu, and was curious to meet her.

Gu Qingqiao was stunned to learn that this Shaoyi was the same Shaoyi from her modern life and also happened to be Duan Yu's nephew. As they talked, Ruoyun recounted growing up with Duan Yu and Xing Si, explaining that as they got older, Duan Yu became more distant and only treated her as a sister. Shaoyi and Ruoyun agreed that Duan Yu was a "jerk" for not appreciating Ruoyun.

Gu Qingqiao clarified that Duan Yu had never proposed marriage to her; her father, Gu Xingwu, was the one arranging everything. Gu Qingqiao and Ruoyun found they liked each other's straightforward personalities and agreed to call each other "Qiao" and "Ruoyun," while Shaoyi nicknamed Gu Qingqiao "Qingliu" due to her unique personality. Gu Qingqiao also commented that she could distinguish between being protected and being monitored by the Wuyi Guards constantly following her.

Later, Gu Qingqiao prepared to have her Eight Characters read with Duan Yu. She asked Duan Yu to dismiss the Wuyi Guards, which he did, agreeing to accompany her himself. They visited Auntie Xu, who specialized in Eight Characters. Auntie Xu was visibly distressed and attempted to return their Eight Characters, claiming her spiritual power was insufficient and that dealing with them had brought her nothing but bad luck, severely injuring her leg.

She explained that their Eight Characters were "out of this world" and combining them would bring disaster, while separating would be even worse, potentially harming others. She described Gu Qingqiao as having an "early death" sign and Duan Yu as a "God of Slaughter." Duan Yu dismissed the talk of gods and ghosts, stating the reading was merely a formality. Gu Qingqiao, however, pressed Auntie Xu for a solution, threatening to visit daily if she didn't provide one.

Auntie Xu reluctantly suggested they try the spiritual Acacia Tree on the east side of the city, but warned the outcome depended on fate. Following Auntie Xu's advice, Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu went to the ancient Acacia Tree. They observed the numerous wish ribbons tied to the branches. Gu Qingqiao used her hairpin to carve a wish onto her Eight Characters tag.

She then decided to bury both her and Duan Yu's tags in a box at the base of the tree, believing it would protect the wishes better than hanging them. With Dongxi's help, she buried the box. Feeling lighthearted after this, Gu Qingqiao suggested they fly paper kites. They began competing playfully, but Duan Yu used a stone to cut Gu Qingqiao's kite string, sending her kite soaring away.

As she tried to help him with his kite, which was proving difficult to control in the strong wind, Gu Qingqiao accidentally fell from the cliff edge. Duan Yu immediately leaped after her and caught her, saving her from the fall. That night, during a thunderstorm, Xing Si was seen digging up the box Gu Qingqiao had buried at the Acacia Tree, muttering nervously about the weather and blaming Duan Yu for making him do it.

He brought the box to Duan Yu, asking if he had retrieved it to confirm if Gu Qingqiao was the "Star of Rebellion" and intended to use the tree's power against the Duan family. Duan Yu denied this, stating he was merely curious about Gu Qingqiao's wish. He opened the tag and read it, revealing her wish was "Have a baby soon," causing him considerable awkwardness. He quickly re-sealed the box and instructed Xing Si to immediately rebury it.

Later, Xing Si delivered a new paper kite to the Gu residence, identical to the one Gu Qingqiao had lost. Gu Qingqiao was happy to receive it. She then asked Xing Si to go to the kitchen and get some pastries from the cook Da to take back for Duan Yu.

Episode 6 Recap

Xing Si suddenly collapsed, poisoned. His symptoms were similar to Su's poisoning case from many years ago, but thankfully, his life was not in immediate danger. They needed to quickly summon Doctor Hu, a renowned expert in detoxification from the Martial Arts World. Shaoyi was dispatched immediately to fetch the doctor.

Meanwhile, the Wuyi Guards apprehended Yuan Da from the kitchen, identifying him as a fugitive from the Wuyi Guards who, according to Xing Si's past testimony, had poisoned Su years ago. Duan Yu intended to take Yuan Da away for interrogation, but Gu Qingqiao intervened. She argued that if Yuan Da were a fugitive, he wouldn't remain in a house full of Wuyi Guards, let alone cook for them.

She firmly believed he wouldn't poison anyone and offered to make him reveal the truth if left in her care. Duan Yu ultimately agreed to let Yuan Da stay in the Gu Residence. Gu Qingqiao went to speak with Yuan Da but discovered that Dongxi had already helped him escape. Duan Yu found numerous mushrooms in the kitchen and wanted to question Yuan Da about them, as Xing Si had been diagnosed with food poisoning.

Gu Qingqiao initially stalled, suggesting they wait until Xing Si woke up. Duan Yu revealed that Xing Si was already awake but was acting erratically, to which Gu Qingqiao jokingly remarked that was great before quickly correcting herself, saying it was great he was awake. When Duan Yu insisted on questioning Yuan Da, Gu Qingqiao finally admitted that Yuan Da had run away.

She reiterated her belief in Yuan Da's innocence and offered to lead Duan Yu to him if he promised not to kill him. Duan Yu agreed, acknowledging her surprising nature. It turned out Xing Si's poisoning was from secretly eating the mushrooms, and he had indeed recovered from the immediate effects. Shaoyi told Miss Ruoyun that Xing Si wrote dialogue novels, and Ruoyun praised his writing.

Shaoyi suggested a business partnership where Xing Si wrote and Shaoyi would handle copying and selling, splitting the profits. Xing Si complained that Duan Yu took all his money, leading Shaoyi and Ruoyun to joke about Duan Yu being a "scumbag." After a long journey, Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu found Yuan Da. Yuan Da explained that years ago, Su's death was a suicide by poisoning after being caught stealing, not murder by him.

He had been wrongly accused all this time. With the misunderstanding cleared, Yuan Da expressed his willingness to return and explain the truth to Xing Si. On the way back, Gu Qingqiao shared a story from her modern life with Duan Yu. She described herself as Qi Chunjiao, an athlete whose father's dream was for her to become a champion, but his death left her feeling suffocated by the pressure. She also recounted being rejected after confessing to her crush.

Duan Yu listened intently, showing subtle signs of sympathy. Later, Yuan Da met with Duan Yu and senior Wuyi Guards, clarifying the events. Duan Yu officially cleared Yuan Da's name and cancelled his warrant, freeing him from hiding. Yuan Da, grateful, offered his service to Duan Yu. Wishing to spend more time with Duan Yu and deepen their relationship, Gu Qingqiao decided to work at Qingfeng Restaurant daily.

She pressured Xing Si to find her a part-time job at the Chamber of Commerce behind the restaurant, threatening to tell Duan Yu about Xing Si secretly meeting Ruoyun and speaking ill of her. Xing Si reluctantly agreed. Gu Qingqiao started spending her days near Duan Yu, even researching recipes near him. Duan Yu found her presence a bit distracting, suggesting she might think better at Qingfeng Restaurant, but Gu Qingqiao brushed it off.

She offered to cook her braised pork for him, mentioning she could make many dishes for him. Miss Ruoyun also visited Duan Yu, bringing him specially made honey chrysanthemum tea and emphasizing her long-standing relationship with him and her understanding of his preferences. Gu Qingqiao reacted with obvious jealousy. Duan Yu asked Xing Si to escort Ruoyun back. On the way, Ruoyun wondered if Duan Yu was serious about Gu Qingqiao.

Xing Si assured her that she was the best girl and that she would find her own true love. That night, while Dongxi was washing Gu Qingqiao's feet, she noticed the flower-shaped birthmark on her ankle had darkened. Gu Qingqiao felt a sense of unease. Discussing with Dongxi, she decided she needed to understand Duan Yu better to win his heart.

She hosted the Wuyi Guards, plying them with alcohol to learn about Duan Yu's preferences and habits, which she diligently recorded. She also went to the kitchen to prepare treats for Duan Yu, making delicious sugar butterflies that she gave to Da and Dongxi, delighting them and calling them a "sweet couple."

Episode 7 Recap

Miss Du, identified as Ruoyun, distributed newly made candy from Fengxiang Bakery to the people in the Chamber of Commerce, who were delighted, noting how difficult the candy was to purchase. Gu Qingqiao arrived and, upon seeing Duan Yu eating the candy, quickly claimed a toothache and left, feeling deeply hurt. Later, she spoke to her maid, Dongxi, expressing her sadness over Duan Yu and wondering if the emotional pain she was experiencing was what being in love felt like.

Ruoyun returned home and met with her father, Magistrate Du. After dismissing a subordinate, he told Ruoyun he was aware of her affection for Duan Yu but emphasized the importance of maintaining her social standing and his reputation. He reminded her of the care and education he had provided, calling her the most accomplished woman in Changqing.

Though he doted on her, he was pained to see her unhappy because of Duan Yu and even jokingly suggested kidnapping him for a marriage, which Ruoyun immediately refused as it would demean her. Magistrate Du then advised her that winning Duan Yu required strategic planning and schemes, not just emotional appeals, adding that a suitable opportunity was presenting itself.

Meanwhile, Duan Yu and Xing Si discussed the dire grain shortage in Changqing, exacerbated by heavy rains damaging the E barn and A barn. They noted that grain in neighboring regions had already been bought up, causing black market prices to surge, and worried their remaining stores wouldn't last. Gu Qingqiao overheard their conversation and became anxious for Duan Yu, the chairman of the Chamber of Commerce. Determined to help, she prepared food, including braised pork, and handmade candy.

She brought these to Duan Yu, who was touched by her thoughtfulness, remarking that his mother used to say nothing a bowl or two of braised pork couldn't fix. Gu Qingqiao then gave him a candy she had made, shaped like a dragon, explaining she knew he was destined for greatness like a "flying dragon" and that while others cared about his success, she cared about the difficulty of his journey.

This brought back fond memories for Duan Yu of his mother making similar candy and wishing him to be a great man. Gu Qingqiao showed him another candy, a sheep, explaining the different horns meant she was Aries and the "little dragon" and "little sheep" could play happily together. Duan Yu sincerely thanked her, expressing his appreciation for her effort and gift. Ruoyun arrived to see Duan Yu but found him sharing a moment with Gu Qingqiao.

Seeing them together, she realized Duan Yu did not feel the same way about her, despite her past belief that she was unique to him. Deeply saddened, she sought out Duan Shaoyi and insisted they drink together, ignoring his warnings about getting into trouble with his father or Duan Yu. She revealed she had seen Duan Yu and Miss Gu and that he liked her.

Shaoyi dismissed this as impossible, stating Duan Yu wouldn't easily like someone, especially not "that lunatic girl," if he didn't even like Ruoyun. Ruoyun was hurt by his bluntness, realizing others seemed aware of Duan Yu's lack of feeling for her. Xing Si found Ruoyun and Duan Shaoyi drinking and sternly told Shaoyi off for letting Ruoyun, who never drank, consume alcohol. Shaoyi insisted Ruoyun had forced him and asked Xing Si not to tell Duan Yu.

Xing Si ordered his subordinate, Ruoyi, to take Shaoyi back home immediately and make it seem as if nothing had happened. A visibly drunk Ruoyun clung to Xing Si, tearfully stating that he had always been the kindest person to her since they were children. Amidst the crisis, Qingfeng Restaurant kept its prices unchanged, as requested by the Chamber of Commerce. Gu Qingqiao and her father discussed ways to conserve grain.

Gu Qingqiao proposed suspending the buffet and introducing a "French-style" dining approach with individual servings, focusing on exquisite presentation, "food culture," and "sense of ritual" to enhance the dining experience while naturally reducing consumption. Her father praised her business acumen, saying Yang Chunfeng couldn't have come up with such an idea, and agreed they should save grain and support the community. Meanwhile, Duan Yu's efforts to secure grain were failing.

His attempt to purchase supplies in Yuzhou was thwarted when someone else bought the grain before his team could finalize the deal. He sent investigators to find the buyer and instructed his men to buy any available dry food like millet and corn if rice was unavailable. Recognizing the urgency, he sought help from Magistrate Du, requesting the government arrange a grain transfer from the court.

However, Magistrate Du was hesitant, stating the request was serious and could cost him his official position. He mentioned Ruoyun had also inquired about the grain, leading Duan Yu to express surprise at her civic concern. Magistrate Du clarified that Ruoyun's concern was purely for him, not the public. Magistrate Du ultimately refused to apply for the government grain transfer.

While Gu Xingwu, known as Master Gu, supervised Qingfeng Restaurant's porridge distribution to refugees, which was met with gratitude, Gu Qingqiao spoke with Duan Yu. She informed him that Qingfeng Restaurant's grain reserves were nearly depleted and she and her father planned to temporarily close the restaurant to donate their remaining grain if the shortage wasn't quickly resolved. Duan Yu explained his failed attempt to get government grain from Magistrate Du, who was evasive and unhelpful.

Gu Qingqiao suggested they approach Ruoyun, believing she would help them because she liked him. Duan Yu vehemently rejected the idea, stating it was inappropriate and "despicable" to involve personal feelings in a critical public matter like grain relief. Angered that he called her attempt to help despicable, Gu Qingqiao accused him of being ungrateful. Duan Yu, also losing his temper, told her to leave.

Remembering that grain is used to make liquor, Gu Qingqiao went to Miao's Tavern, a partner of Qingfeng Restaurant. She proposed that the owner, Mr. Miao, donate grain in exchange for a year's supply contract with Qingfeng Restaurant, with delivery delayed for two years. Mr. Miao was surprised and hesitant, stating he had never done business with a woman and needed grain for his business.

To prove her commitment and earn his trust, Gu Qingqiao proposed a drinking wager: she would drink five large jars of his potent sorghum liquor as a gesture of friendship. Impressed by her courage but also concerned about his reputation, Mr. Miao agreed to the bet, promising to donate more grain the more she drank, while he would drink double her amount. They asked Manager Li from next door to witness the wager.

As news of the unusual bet spread, Duan Yu and Xing Si rushed to the tavern. Duan Yu found Gu Qingqiao already heavily intoxicated and urged her to stop, but she playfully insisted she was drinking with her "brother." The onlookers explained the bet required her to drink alone, and if she stopped, her efforts would be wasted. Duan Yu watched anxiously, attempting to help with some rice, which she refused.

She continued drinking, talking nonsensically about "six-vein sword," until she finished the last jar and collapsed. Mr. Miao, deeply impressed by her determination and sacrifice, honored the bet and donated a significant amount of grain. Later, Gu Qingqiao woke up, initially fearing she hadn't finished and the donation failed, but was relieved to hear Mr. Miao had donated generously.

Yang Chunfeng reported to Magistrate Du that he had successfully procured and stored grain from Yuzhou and other areas, giving them control over Changqing's grain prices. Magistrate Du stated that if Yang Chunfeng could become the Chamber of Commerce chairman, the city would be firmly under his control. Yang Chunfeng's stated goals were to replace Duan Yu, expel Gu Xingwu, and take over Qingfeng Restaurant. Magistrate Du encouraged his ambition.

After Yang Chunfeng left, Ruoyun entered, having overheard part of the conversation. Magistrate Du confessed to Ruoyun that the entire scheme was orchestrated for her, as he knew she had loved Duan Yu since childhood. His plan was to create a severe grain shortage, forcing Duan Yu to seek his help, at which point his condition would be for Duan Yu to propose and marry Ruoyun.

Ruoyun was distressed, questioning if they could undo their actions and return the grain, fearing for her father's safety as secretly hoarding government-controlled grain was a serious crime. Magistrate Du dismissed her concerns, assuring her he would be safe as long as the grain's location remained secret, and that it was only a matter of time until a desperate Duan Yu would agree to marry her.

Episode 8 Recap

Duan Yu suspected that Magistrate Du must be aware of the young woman's gamble to donate grain, believing there was something suspicious behind it. He instructed Xing Si to have someone keep a close watch on the prefect's gate. Xing Si questioned if Magistrate Du was perhaps using this situation to pressure Duan Yu into marrying Ruoyun.

Duan Yu dismissed the idea, stating Magistrate Du would not resort to such an absurd method involving a matter as critical as food supply for personal marital affairs. He insisted that Xing Si just ensure the prefect's gate was monitored. He then asked Xing Si to summon Shaoyi. When Shaoyi arrived, he seemed to think Duan Yu had discovered something else, but Duan Yu revealed he knew Shaoyi and Ruoyun were drinking at the pavilion.

Shaoyi explained he was only keeping Ruoyun company because she was upset about seeing Duan Yu with Miss Gu. Duan Yu countered that it was Shaoyi who was truly upset. Shaoyi voiced his displeasure with Gu Qingqiao, calling her eccentric and inferior to Ruoyun. Duan Yu mused on fate and clarified that although he grew up with Ruoyun, he had always regarded her as a younger sister.

When Shaoyi questioned why he had then been ignoring her, Duan Yu explained that his deliberate coldness was intended to shield her from damaging rumors, likening it to Xing Si's unspoken affection for her. He stressed the importance of protecting family members, regardless of personal feelings. Shaoyi directly asked if Duan Yu genuinely liked Gu Qingqiao and intended to marry her.

Duan Yu admitted that his initial interactions were part of an investigation, but he gradually realized she was different from other women and he felt significantly happier when he was with her. He added that there was a matter of great importance to the Duan family, and once it was resolved, he would formally propose to and marry her.

Finally, he mentioned he had the pavilion cleaned and suggested Shaoyi take Ruoyun there if she was feeling down, cautioning them to keep it discreet from outsiders and the Du family. Yang Chunfeng was celebrating his impending success and status as Chairman, confident he was about to make a fortune from the grain shortage. However, an underling reported that Duan Yu was unexpectedly selling grain at a low price.

Yang Chunfeng was shocked and upset, having believed he had bought up all the available grain in the vicinity, making Duan Yu's access to supply impossible. The underling relayed that Duan Yu was claiming the grain was "relief" rather than purchased stock. Despite his confusion and frustration, Yang Chunfeng decided to remain calm and observe the situation for a couple more days.

Gu Qingqiao had been actively trying to secure help, successfully getting Mr. Miao on board, which she hoped would alleviate the grain shortage and ease Duan Yu's burden. Duan Yu arrived to visit her, prompting her surprise that he wasn't preoccupied with the grain crisis. He explained he had simply stopped by, and she welcomed him warmly. Duan Yu shared that, following Mr. Miao's commitment, several other tavern owners had also agreed to suspend operations and donate their grain supply.

He expressed admiration for Gu Qingqiao, saying he had never seen a woman risk her life for the sake of others like she did, and she asked him to call her Xiao Qiao. Duan Yu commented on her beautiful smile, encouraging her to smile more often.

He then revealed that an idea had come to him while she was intoxicated: the fact that grain couldn't be purchased or found meant it was likely being hoarded, and locating the hoarder would resolve the crisis. Gu Qingqiao complimented his intelligence, and they decided to go out together. Meanwhile, Ruoyun was sadly recalling how Duan Yu used to enjoy her tea. Shaoyi took Ruoyun to Chunfeng Restaurant. Coincidentally, they saw Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao there.

Ruoyun became upset and wanted to leave. Gu Qingqiao followed her, asking if they were still friends, but Ruoyun stated she didn't have friends like her, expressing anger about her father's perceived corruption by Yang Chunfeng. Later, Ruoyun requested to see Duan Yu and informed him that she knew the location of Yang Chunfeng's hidden grain. She offered to reveal the information on the condition that he agree to something, and Duan Yu accepted her terms.

Duan Yu sent Shaoyi to find Xing Si and the Wuyi Guards and bring them to West Mountain, instructing him to follow the marks he would leave. He also told Shaoyi to return to Chunfeng Restaurant afterward to watch Yang Chunfeng with Ruoyun. Ruoyun initially wanted to accompany Duan Yu, but Gu Qingqiao volunteered instead. Gu Qingqiao insisted on going with Duan Yu because of the potential danger, believing they could share the risk.

Duan Yu agreed, and they went together. They followed a grain carrier to a mountain cave in the western suburbs. Upon discovering the cave was guarded, Gu Qingqiao proposed subduing the guards, but Duan Yu favored caution. They observed guards discussing the high value of the hoarded grain and plotting to secretly sell damaged sacks. After the guards departed, Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao entered the cave, confirming it held a massive supply, estimated at 40,000 dan.

The stone door closed, trapping them inside, and Gu Qingqiao expressed concern about the air. While lighting a fire, Gu Qingqiao detected wind, indicating an opening. Following the draft, they located an exit and managed to get out. They were immediately met by Xing Si and the Wuyi Guards who had arrived as backup.

Ruoyun was shocked to learn that Duan Yu had successfully located the grain hoard, totaling 40,000 dan, and she reminded him of the promise he had made. Duan Yu, accompanied by Gu Qingqiao, went to Chunfeng Restaurant to confront Yang Chunfeng. After some initial pleasantries, Duan Yu brought up the topic of the grain shortage and the merchants who had likely hoarded supplies but were now hesitant to sell.

He proposed a partnership with Yang Chunfeng, suggesting that by leveraging Yang Chunfeng's influence, they could sell the grain, alleviate the crisis, and still profit. Yang Chunfeng quickly realized that Duan Yu knew about the hidden grain in the western cave. Revealing the hoard was worth four million taels at the current market price, Yang Chunfeng offered Duan Yu one million for his assistance in resolving the crisis.

Duan Yu flatly refused, stating that the Chamber of Commerce would buy all 40,000 dan for only 200,000 taels, with no negotiation. He warned Yang Chunfeng that if civil unrest erupted due to the shortage, Magistrate Du would prioritize his own position and likely force Yang Chunfeng to release the grain, leaving him with nothing. Duan Yu argued that his offer was fair and advised Yang Chunfeng that accepting it would be the safest course of action.

He then proposed a wager: whether Magistrate Du would choose to protect his official position or Yang Chunfeng's illicit gains. Gu Qingqiao interjected, affirming Duan Yu's righteousness. Duan Yu pressed Yang Chunfeng to accept the deal, emphasizing the wisdom of securing the money now. Duan Yu then confronted Magistrate Du, presenting him with a copy of a grain transfer order.

He explained that this order had facilitated the rapid purchase of grain from neighboring provinces, compelling even cautious officials to comply, and revealed that the order, which should have remained solely with the Magistrate, had been given to him by Yang Chunfeng. When Magistrate Du denied the order had ever left his mansion, Duan Yu disclosed his wager with Yang Chunfeng, asserting they were betting on whether the Magistrate valued his official hat more than Yang Chunfeng's money.

Magistrate Du reacted with anger, interpreting this as a threat. Duan Yu calmly clarified that the real threat came not from him, but from the grain sacks found in the cave in the west of the city, which bore the magistrate's official seal on them. He confirmed that 40,000 dan of grain had been located, proving the hoard existed and implicating the magistrate directly. Faced with this undeniable evidence, Magistrate Du was compelled to act.

The grain crisis in Changqing was subsequently resolved as grain was distributed to the grateful citizens. To reward Gu Qingqiao, Duan Yu bought her a new hairpin to replace the one he had accidentally broken. Later, Gu Qingqiao bought a pair of rings and gave one to Duan Yu, explaining they were called "couple rings" in her hometown, symbolizing that their hearts were linked.

She insisted he wear it, stating it was a way of declaring his heart was taken and warding off other suitors, calling it a romantic ritual. Duan Yu, amused by her unique ideas, accepted the ring. They celebrated their success by drinking Yangmei wine. As Gu Qingqiao became increasingly intoxicated, she began revealing intimate secrets.

Earlier, she had a vivid dream of returning to her original world, frantically searching for her family and her watch, only to awaken and fear it might be a premonition that Lu Zizheng would harm her, especially given the secrecy surrounding the Nine-turn Melodious Bell as a sacred relic of the Mantra Sect. Now, while drunk, she confessed to Duan Yu that she was not from his world and was not actually the daughter of a restaurant owner.

She explained that in her previous life, she was a simple, ordinary person, once a dedicated discus athlete who loved bubble tea and her bus ride home. After an injury ended her athletic career, she became what she called a "three no" person – without a career, future, or love. She revealed that she was the "Star of Rebellion."

Showing him the Nine-turn Melodious Bell, she called it one of the Four Treasures, which was supposed to be her path back home. However, she tearfully told him that meeting him had used up all her luck and that he was now her entire dream, making the search for the Four Treasures irrelevant. She declared her intention to make his family her family, his ambition her ambition, and his responsibility her responsibility.

She pledged to share all his burdens with him and vowed that with her by his side, he would never feel isolated or lonely. Duan Yu initially thought she was merely speaking from intoxication, but she insisted she was serious and had never shared these truths with anyone else before him.

Episode 9 Recap

Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao shared a secret, confirming that she was the Star of Rebellion. Gu Qingqiao explained that a bell, the Nine-turn Melodious Bell, given to her by someone very close, was proof of her identity. She confided that she had never told anyone else this secret and that the bell had helped her through difficult times. She emphasized that this was their small secret and that life could be bitter, but they would make it sweet.

Duan Yu later discussed Gu Qingqiao with Xing Si, asking for his assessment of her character. Xing Si described her as a good person, noting that while she might speak oddly, her feelings for Duan Yu were genuine and deeply felt, something he could sense. Xing Si pointed out that their mutual affection was clear and suggested taking the opportunity to marry Gu Qingqiao into the Duan family, thus making the Star of Rebellion useful to them.

Duan Yu acknowledged that Gu Qingqiao was not a bad person and he couldn't bring himself to harm her or break ties with her. However, his elder brother was expected to emerge from seclusion soon, and if he discovered Gu Qingqiao was the Star of Rebellion, he would immediately kill her.

Xing Si suggested either deceiving their family's lord or truly marrying Gu Qingqiao to protect her and align the Star of Rebellion with the Duan family, assuring Duan Yu that their lord might consider his feelings as his younger brother. Duan Yu dismissed this as irresponsible towards both Gu Qingqiao and the Duan family. Gu Xingwu, aiming to push Duan Yu towards marrying Gu Qingqiao, orchestrated the spread of rumors.

He hired a storyteller who recounted Gu Qingqiao's act of drinking five jars of wine at a tavern to persuade the owner to donate grain during the shortage, portraying it as a testament to her deep affection for Duan Yu. The storyteller announced that Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao were deeply in love and about to marry, suggesting Duan Yu would naturally choose Gu Qingqiao over Ruoyun.

These rumors quickly circulated throughout the city, causing many people to discuss the impending marriage and Ruoyun's fate. When Ruoyun heard the widespread talk, she suspected Gu Qingqiao was deliberately spreading these rumors to force the marriage and seize credit for resolving the grain shortage. Believing Gu Qingqiao was deceitful, Ruoyun decided to confront her directly at the Gu residence.

Aware of Gu Qingqiao's fondness for pearl milk tea, a drink unconventional in Changqing, Duan Yu spent a morning experimenting to create it himself, even using genuine pearls. He sent Xing Si to deliver the unique beverage to the Gu residence. Gu Qingqiao, upon Xing Si's arrival, initially feared Duan Yu was sending her a message to end their relationship or even poison her because he now knew her identity as the Star of Rebellion.

Gu Xingwu, however, mistook Xing Si's visit for a formal proposal delivery. Xing Si clarified that he was merely delivering the pearl milk tea Duan Yu had made for Gu Qingqiao to help with a hangover, emphasizing there was no other message. Gu Qingqiao was astonished and deeply touched by the thoughtful gesture, especially the real pearls. As they were discussing the tea, Ruoyun arrived at the Gu residence to confront Gu Qingqiao.

Seeing Xing Si, she inquired about the gift from Duan Yu. Xing Si quickly took his leave. Ruoyun then invited Gu Qingqiao to her mansion for a tea gathering, where Gu Qingqiao learned the full extent of the city's rumors about her impending marriage to Duan Yu.

Realizing her father, Gu Xingwu, was likely behind the widespread gossip, Gu Qingqiao found herself in a difficult position, unable to fully explain to Ruoyun, who was clearly upset and believed Gu Qingqiao had deliberately plotted against her. During the tea session, Ruoyun showcased her extensive knowledge and refined taste in tea, discussing different types, brewing methods, and appropriate tea wares from famous kilns. Gu Qingqiao, navigating the tense situation, played along and offered flattery, attempting to placate Ruoyun.

However, Ruoyun's attendant cautioned her not to be deceived by Gu Qingqiao's apparent friendliness, interpreting it as a sign of guilt, and urged Ruoyun to remain resolute. Ruoyun resolved not to be easily swayed. Meanwhile, Duan Yu decided to make a journey to the Divine Palace while his brother was still in seclusion. He knew that visiting the Divine Palace was said to result in the loss of martial arts skills, effectively turning a person into a commoner.

Xing Si urged him to reconsider, but Duan Yu was determined to go, believing he must understand the prophecy of the Star of Rebellion before his brother returned to prevent great chaos and protect Gu Qingqiao, whose life would be in peril if his brother discovered her identity first. He stated his resolve was firm. Before leaving, Duan Yu went to see Gu Qingqiao.

He told her he was going on a long trip and asked her to take good care of herself. He attempted to return the Nine-turn Melodious Bell to her, acknowledging its importance as a relic from someone dear to her. Gu Qingqiao, however, insisted that Duan Yu himself was now the most important person to her and that the most precious item should be kept by the most important person, returning the bell to him for safekeeping.

Duan Yu reciprocated her sentiment, telling her that she was also the most important person to him. They embraced, expressing their desire to stay together and promising to face any difficulties together. Gu Qingqiao urged him to return safely, assuring him she would be waiting for him. Duan Yu expressed his belief that he would find a solution in the Divine Palace that would benefit both of them.

Ruoyun, learning from Xing Si that Duan Yu had gone to the Divine Palace without stating his purpose, suspected it was related to Gu Qingqiao and expressed her frustration over the ongoing entanglement. Duan Shaoyi offered to help Ruoyun defeat Gu Qingqiao while Duan Yu was away.

After Duan Yu's departure, Gu Qingqiao embarked on a creative project, developing a new game she called 'Big Tycoons' in her father's study, much to his confusion and dismay over the state of his paintings. She then brought the game to the Duan residence, seeking out Xing Si, Shaoyi, and Ruoyun to play. She expressed her desire to build a relationship with them, humorously referring to Ruoyun as her "sister-in-law" and Shaoyi as her "nephew."

Shaoyi, protective of Ruoyun's position and initially hostile towards Gu Qingqiao, made veiled jabs about respecting "first come, first served," but Gu Qingqiao cleverly deflected his remarks. As they played 'Big Tycoons,' buying properties like a bookstore and an escort agency, Shaoyi discovered a knack for business and became increasingly engaged. Seizing the opportunity, Gu Qingqiao offered him an internship at her Qingfeng Restaurant to help him pursue his entrepreneurial aspirations.

Ruoyun, observing Shaoyi's shift in attitude and becoming increasingly annoyed by the game and Gu Qingqiao's ease, threw the dice and declared she was tired of the "scheming game," ending the session abruptly. Shaoyi admitted he felt like he forgot their original purpose just by talking to Gu Qingqiao, acknowledging her unique influence. Around this time, Duan Yu entered a thick, misty forest. As he ventured deeper, he was suddenly enveloped and pulled away by an unseen force.

Later, Shaoyi visited the Qingfeng Restaurant looking for Gu Qingqiao, finding it unusually empty. Gu Qingqiao explained it was likely before the main dining hours but assured him it would be busy later. She offered to personally prepare dinner for him in a private room, appreciating his visit. While at the restaurant, Gu Qingqiao discovered Dongxi's father causing a scene. He was demanding money from Dongxi, citing an old debt related to Dongxi's mother.

When Dongxi refused to give him the earrings Gu Qingqiao had given her, he forcibly took them. Gu Qingqiao intervened, telling Dongxi's father that this was the last time she would tolerate his behavior. She gave Dongxi her own earrings instead of the ones her father took. Gu Qingqiao reminded him that Dongxi was bound by a contract of sale to the Gu family and threatened to involve the authorities if he ever bothered Dongxi again. Dongxi expressed gratitude and concern for Gu Qingqiao giving away her favorite earrings, but Gu Qingqiao reassured her, saying Dongxi was far more important than any material possession.

Episode 10 Recap

Duan Yu, from the Duan family of Changqing, sought audience with the Lord of the Divine Palace, carrying His Lordship's order. He found the place strangely quiet. He encountered a figure and stated his identity and purpose, requesting they inform the Lord. However, the figure attacked him, and Duan Yu was overcome, falling unconscious. Elsewhere, Du Ruoyun was saddened by her father's actions, feeling he was an obstacle despite being family.

Her companion, Dongxi, comforted her, telling her she was a kind girl who should cherish the people around her, mentioning Da who had given Ruoyun beautiful new earrings. Ruoyun felt she had repaid her father's kindness for helping her mother. Shaoyi, seeking revenge for Du Ruoyun after Gu Qingqiao allegedly had a storyteller defame her, went to Qingfeng Restaurant.

He planned to use a private room to set up a mechanism to humiliate Gu Qingqiao, saying this was also for the Duan family, to see if she was worthy of Duan Yu. Gu Qingqiao, noting the lack of improvement in Qingfeng's business, reviewed the accounts with her Manager. She learned that a private room had been booked for three consecutive days by Young Master Shaoyi, who claimed to have something important to do there.

Gu Qingqiao, believing Shaoyi was secretly trying to help her struggling business, went to the room, surprising him. Shaoyi tried to prevent her from entering, acting mysterious about something important happening the day after tomorrow. Suspicious, Gu Qingqiao sought out Xing Si, asking if the day after tomorrow was significant. Xing Si, after some thought, realized it was Shaoyi's birthday. Knowing this, Gu Qingqiao took charge of the room.

Shaoyi, unaware, tested his mechanism, explaining how Gu Qingqiao would slip, fall, and trigger a table flip, making her and Qingfeng a joke, though he had placed a water tank below to prevent serious injury. He intended this as a lesson for her and punishment for defaming Ruoyun. Gu Qingqiao then entered, surprising him with a birthday greeting and praising his mechanism idea as perfect for Qingfeng. People gathered and sang happy birthday to Shaoyi.

Later, Gu Qingqiao reflected on Shaoyi's persistent pranks and her ability to counter them. Shaoyi, feeling embarrassed but touched by the birthday surprise (organized by Gu Qingqiao via Xing Si), acknowledged that Duan Yu had reason to like her. He admitted his plan had gone too far but was impressed by her cleverness. They reconciled, agreeing to end their rivalry and treat each other like "brothers," with Shaoyi agreeing to pay for a celebratory feast.

Gu Qingqiao also mused about doing things for them to remember her. Duan Yu awoke and found himself in the presence of a figure who identified as the Lord of the Divine Palace, clarifying his state was neither fully alive nor dead within the Palace's unique existence, accessible only by strong will. Duan Yu asked if the Star of Rebellion, predicted years ago, posed a great threat to the Duan family, and if there was a win-win solution.

The Lord confirmed the threat was significant, implying Duan Yu's presence there proved it. The Lord spoke of love and hatred as destiny's trials. Duan Yu offered his life to help resolve Gu Qingqiao's trial. The Lord suggested using Duan Yu's strong will to foresee a vision. In the vision, Duan Yu saw a conflict, and Gu Qingqiao fighting. He rushed to intervene, shouting her name.

He and Gu Qingqiao fell off a cliff, with Duan Yu desperately holding onto her. Gu Qingqiao told him he was her destiny, said goodbye, and let go, falling into the abyss. Duan Yu cried out for her and then woke up back in the forest where he had collapsed, questioning if his visit to the Divine Palace and the vision were real or just a hallucination. Shaoyi's first prank had failed, but he wasn't done.

Yang Chunfeng, noticing Qingfeng Restaurant's booming business, grew envious. Seeing suspicious people near the restaurant, he suspected Gu Qingqiao had made many enemies. Shaoyi concocted a new plan, sending a letter to Magistrate Du claiming he had been kidnapped by Gu Qingqiao, attempting to frame her. While Shaoyi was waiting for his hired kidnappers, Gu Qingqiao was also waiting for him in a secluded spot, trying to fly a kite.

A group of men arrived, not the ones Shaoyi hired, and attacked Gu Qingqiao. Xing Si suddenly appeared and apprehended them. Gu Qingqiao recognized her assailants as people she knew. When questioned, they revealed Shaoyi had hired them to stage a kidnapping. Meanwhile, at the Magistrate's office, Magistrate Du received Shaoyi's letter claiming kidnapping by Gu Qingqiao. Magistrate Du found the letter's composition (cut and pasted characters) suspicious.

Du Ruoyun arrived and identified the writing style as belonging to Gu Qingqiao, using characters from a game booklet Gu Qingqiao had made. Ruoyun argued that Gu Qingqiao must have written the letter herself to frame someone else and appear innocent. Magistrate Du considered this possibility. Shaoyi was growing impatient waiting for his hired kidnappers. Gu Qingqiao arrived instead.

They had a conversation where Gu Qingqiao acknowledged his pranks stemmed from Duan Yu, and expressed her confusion about everything since arriving, yet finding them genuinely lovable. She praised his hidden intelligence and talent for mechanisms. Shaoyi admitted his initial harsh judgment of her but now saw she deserved some affection. They reaffirmed their truce. Just as they agreed to move past their rivalry, another group of people appeared.

Shaoyi initially thought they were his hired men, telling them the act was over and he would pay double. However, Gu Qingqiao realized they were different. Shaoyi then revealed that Xing Si had already caught the group he hired and taken them back to the Duan Residence. This second group captured Gu Qingqiao and Shaoyi, tying them up. This second group were members of the Mantra Sect.

Yang Chunfeng went to Magistrate Du, insisting the earlier letter was false and that he had witnessed Gu Qingqiao colluding with the Mantra Sect to kidnap Shaoyi. The Mantra Sect members debated killing Shaoyi, considering him a burden, as their main target was Gu Qingqiao and finding the sacred object. However, when Shaoyi revealed he was the son of Duan Yan of Changqing, they hesitated, recognizing the potential implications.

At the Duan Residence, Duan Yan, having returned and learned of Shaoyi's capture, was furious with Xing Si for his failure to protect his son, threatening him and the Wuyi Guards if Shaoyi was harmed. He ordered Xing Si to immediately summon Magistrate Du for discussions. Xing Si encountered Du Ruoyun, who blamed herself for suggesting the prank revenge that led to Shaoyi's predicament.

Xing Si tried to comfort her, assuring her that Shaoyi was intelligent and would be fine, guarded by fate. He told her to stay safely at home and hurried off to fetch Magistrate Du. Gu Qingqiao and Shaoyi were held captive in a cave, tied up. Shaoyi complained about the rough treatment he received.

Gu Qingqiao, claiming to be tougher and stronger than many men, teased him for his lack of martial arts skills despite his family's reputation, while acknowledging his talent for mechanisms. The Mantra Sect members discussed their plan: using Gu Qingqiao to lure out the Right Guardian to recover the sacred object and gain revenge for past events at Qingfeng, while keeping Duan Yan's son, Shaoyi, for leverage or another purpose. Shaoyi asked Gu Qingqiao why they were captured.

Gu Qingqiao believed the Mantra Sect was looking for a specific object, explaining vaguely that it was "theirs but mine" and not currently on her person, as she had given it to Duan Yu. Shaoyi connected this to the previous incident at Qingfeng. They realized the kidnappers might not kill them immediately if they didn't find the object on her, and Gu Qingqiao proposed using this difference in information to plan their escape, calling it an "information gap."

Episode 11 Recap

Gu Qingqiao skillfully used a rock to saw through her ropes and then helped Shaoyi free himself. While planning their escape, they were interrupted by Mantra Sect members who demanded to know how Gu Qingqiao contacted their Right Guardian and where he had hidden a sacred object. Gu Qingqiao claimed she had no contact with the Right Guardian and didn't know the sacred object's location.

She offered to help them find it if they released her and Shaoyi, but her offer was refused. Gu Qingqiao observed that there were six guards in total but only five were visible inside their current location. She deduced there must be another exit, likely guarded by only one person, and proposed they risk attempting to escape through it.

She deliberately provoked one guard and, when he approached, quickly knocked him out with a precise strike, repeating the technique on another guard. During the escape attempt, Shaoyi injured his leg, making it difficult to run. Gu Qingqiao had to carry him on her back as they fled, but the pursuing Mantra Sect members quickly gained on them.

Meanwhile, Mr. Qi returned to the Duan family residence, injured, and reported that Sacred Blood Sect disciples had reappeared, possessing greater power than before, likely due to a Blood Technique. Duan Yan, the master of the Duan family, was informed that the Star of Rebellion had also emerged. Duan Yan questioned Xing Si about Gu Qingqiao's background.

Xing Si explained that Gu Qingqiao was the daughter of the Qingfeng Restaurant owner and someone Duan Yu cared for deeply, having shared many experiences with him, including solving a grain shortage, and that they had developed genuine feelings for each other. Duan Yan dismissed this as ridiculous, stating that Duan Yu's marriage must be to Magistrate Du's daughter. He added that Yang Chunfeng had accused Gu Qingqiao of colluding with the Mantra Sect to kidnap Shaoyi.

Suspecting Gu Qingqiao was connected to the Sacred Blood Sect and had orchestrated a grand scheme targeting the Duan family, Duan Yan ordered the Wuyi Guards to surround the Gu residence and bring Gu Qingqiao to him alive to expose her. Having learned where Gu Qingqiao was being held, the Right Guardian, Lu Zizheng, rushed to the cave where the Mantra Sect had taken her. He eliminated the guards and rescued Gu Qingqiao.

He immediately demanded the Nine-turn melodious bell back, explaining that keeping it would put her in grave danger if its existence became known. Gu Qingqiao revealed that she had given the bell to Duan Yu. As Mantra Sect reinforcements were signaled, Lu Zizheng, despite his anger, urged her to leave with him to warn the Duan family. Gu Qingqiao refused, insisting on finding Duan Yu who was nearby, believing he was there to save her.

Lu Zizheng called her foolish, telling her Duan Yu was likely there to "capture" her and that her infatuation would be her downfall. He offered to leave without the bell for the moment if she would just escape with him, but she steadfastly refused, declaring she had promised Duan Yu they would face everything together, even death. Frustrated by her stubbornness, Lu Zizheng left to confront Duan Yu himself. Lu Zizheng found Duan Yu and demanded the Nine-turn melodious bell.

He revealed they were old acquaintances and challenged Duan Yu, accusing him of deceiving Gu Qingqiao to obtain the bell and claiming Duan Yu intended to harm her. Duan Yu denied the accusations but demanded Gu Qingqiao back. They began to fight. Lu Zizheng used an illusion technique that disoriented Duan Yu. Gu Qingqiao appeared on the scene during their confrontation. Duan Yu seemingly aimed a shot, but it struck Gu Qingqiao instead.

Lu Zizheng instantly broke his illusion to protect her, furious that Duan Yu would harm her. As Lu Zizheng fought Duan Yu, he found himself overwhelmed. Suddenly, Duan Yan appeared, identifying Gu Qingqiao as the Star of Rebellion and attempting to kill her. Faced with this new threat and unable to defeat both Duan Yu and Duan Yan, Lu Zizheng was forced to abandon Gu Qingqiao and make his escape.

Gu Qingqiao was initially relieved to see Duan Yu, but her relief turned to shock and confusion when he immediately turned on her, holding a sword to her throat. Duan Yu identified her as the Star of Rebellion and an accomplice to the Duan family's enemies. Despite her protests and questions, Duan Yu coldly stated that everything he had done previously was a calculated plan to test and stabilize her and discover if she was the Star of Rebellion.

Heartbroken, Gu Qingqiao refused to believe his words, reminding him of their professed feelings and plans for marriage. Duan Yu insisted their union was impossible due to her identity. At this moment, Magistrate Du arrived with his men, declaring that Gu Qingqiao was the kidnapper of his son and had colluded with the Mantra Sect.

Despite Duan Yu initially claiming the Duan family would handle her, Magistrate Du asserted his authority, stating she had committed numerous wrongdoings and must be taken to the official prison for thorough questioning. Gu Qingqiao was then apprehended and taken away by the Magistrate's guards. After Gu Qingqiao was taken, Xing Si found Duan Yu and confirmed that she was in the Magistrate's prison.

He noted that this was a fortunate outcome compared to her falling into Duan Yan's hands, especially now that her identity as the Star of Rebellion was known. Duan Yu confessed that he had orchestrated the Magistrate's intervention precisely to protect Gu Qingqiao from Duan Yan, regretting that his plan wasn't perfect and that his brother had intervened personally. He briefly considered if letting the Right Guardian take her would have been better, but dismissed it due to a prophecy.

He acknowledged the difficulty of rescuing her from the combined forces of the government and his family. Xing Si observed that Duan Yu's actions must have deeply hurt Gu Qingqiao, to which Duan Yu responded that her heartbreak was necessary to sever her ties to him, protecting her from further implication and giving him a better chance to save her, despite her innocence. He hoped she would understand someday, though he was uncertain if that day would come.

Meanwhile, Mr. Qi presented Duan Yan with a pattern found on Gu Qingqiao, confirming it was the symbol of the Star of Rebellion from the Divine Palace prophecy. Duan Yan reflected on his past fears about this prophecy and the Sacred Blood Sect, viewing Gu Qingqiao's capture and the locating of the sect's trail as a sign of heavenly aid for the Duan family.

He stated their priority was to understand the Star of Rebellion's purpose and eradicate the Sacred Blood Sect, noting the inconvenience of Gu Qingqiao being held in the Magistrate's prison. Duan Yan saw Magistrate Du's actions as a calculated play for leverage and face, especially given the impending marriage alliance between their families, but was confident he would secure Gu Qingqiao.

He also expressed concern about rumors of Duan Yu's close relationship with Gu Qingqiao, worrying his brother might have developed genuine feelings that could jeopardize their larger plans, despite Xing Si's reassurances about Duan Yu's commitment to the overall situation. Duan Yan then assigned Xing Si another task. Separately, Ruoyun received news from her maid. The maid reported that while the Duan family was safe, Shaoyi was injured and unconscious. Crucially, she recounted hearing that Duan Yu himself had captured Gu Qingqiao, reportedly holding a sword to her throat. Ruoyun was visibly shocked by this news.

Episode 12 Recap

When Gu Qingqiao was imprisoned, she worried if Young Master Shaoyi had been rescued. A guard confirmed that the Duan family had found him and he seemed to be unharmed. Gu Qingqiao asked to see Duan Yu, offering money from Qingfeng Restaurant, but the guard refused, saying he couldn't afford to collect money there. Mr. Qi later relayed His Lordship's order to the guards to torture Gu Qingqiao to force her to confess why she kidnapped Shaoyi.

Gu Qingqiao repeatedly denied kidnapping him, stating they were both kidnapped by the Mantra Sect. Hearing it was His Lordship who ordered the torture, she asked if Duan Yu knew, and the guard mocked her for still thinking of him. However, the Magistrate sent an order to stop the interrogation for the day and postpone it. Meanwhile, Gu Qingqiao's father, Gu Xingwu, went to Qingfeng Restaurant, planning to take all the cash to bribe officials to help his daughter.

Yang Chunfeng arrived with government officers, announcing that the Magistrate had sealed Qingfeng Restaurant and appointed him its manager. He declared that not a single grain of rice could be taken, as everything there could be evidence of Gu Qingqiao's collusion with the Mantra Sect. Gu Xingwu, enraged, was forced to leave with his helpers. Dongxi arrived shortly after, reporting that the family home had also been ransacked and looted.

Gu Xingwu was devastated, his plans to help Gu Qingqiao now impossible. Duan Yu and Mr. Qi visited Gu Qingqiao in prison. Gu Qingqiao was relieved to see Duan Yu and insisted she did not kidnap Shaoyi and knew nothing of the Mantra Sect, believing he would trust her.

Duan Yu revealed that an ancient prophecy from the Divine Palace foretold that a 'Star of Rebellion' would help the Sacred Blood Sect return and destroy the Duan family, and that she was that Star of Rebellion, meaning they were destined enemies. Gu Qingqiao was deeply hurt, realizing his past actions, including his offer of marriage, were merely tests.

She felt foolish for believing she could melt his icy heart and for thinking their connection was genuine, concluding that everything was a pretext because of the prophecy that she would destroy his family. Mr. Qi suggested torture due to her stubbornness, but Duan Yu objected, saying it would be counterproductive as she had no martial arts skills. He urged her to reveal everything she knew about the Sacred Blood Sect, giving her three days to consider.

Before he left, Gu Qingqiao asked if he had ever had feelings for her; his silence confirmed her fears. Duan Yu learned from Mr. Qi that his brother, His Lordship Duan Yan, planned to execute Gu Qingqiao in three days for colluding with evil sects and attempting to murder Young Master Shaoyi. Duan Yu devised a plan to rescue her during the execution and send her somewhere safe.

He understood His Lordship knew Gu Qingqiao had little information about the Sacred Blood Sect but intended to use the public execution of the prophesied 'Star of Rebellion' as bait to lure the remaining Sacred Blood Sect members out. Duan family forces would then collaborate with the government to trap and eliminate them.

Mr. Qi calculated that they would need to withstand the Sacred Blood Sect for two hours until their Blood Technique, which boosts power using limited blood supply, would fail. Duan Yu also mentioned hiring experts from outside the region to assist with the rescue.

Later, His Lordship Duan Yan pressed Duan Yu about his impending marriage to Du Ruoyun, stating it must proceed as a political alliance, regardless of Duan Yu's feelings, adding he could take a woman he loved as a concubine later. His Lordship insisted Gu Qingqiao must be killed due to the prophecy.

Duan Yu wrestled with his dilemma, caught between loyalty to his family and his feelings for Gu Qingqiao, feeling there was no way to save both his family and her. Young Master Shaoyi regained consciousness and immediately expressed concern for Gu Qingqiao, urging Ruoyun to help rescue her. His Lordship Duan Yan visited Shaoyi and told him that Gu Qingqiao, in league with the Mantra Sect, had kidnapped and injured him, and that Duan Yu's timely arrival saved him.

Shaoyi corrected him, stating he was kidnapped alongside Gu Qingqiao and that she had covered for him, allowing him to escape, and called her his savior. His Lordship dismissed Shaoyi's account, stating the government had already decided the matter and forbade Shaoyi from leaving his room, instructing Ruoyi to keep him confined. Shaoyi protested, recalling his father's teachings on justice and repaying kindness, but His Lordship was firm.

The night before her scheduled execution, a messenger from Lu Zizheng visited Gu Qingqiao in prison, relaying a message that his master, Lu Zizheng, would come to save her. Later, Duan Yu brought Gu Qingqiao a dish of braised pork he claimed to have made himself, apologizing and saying it was the only way, and that after tomorrow, everything would return to normal. Gu Qingqiao remarked that perhaps this outcome was for the best.

Suddenly, she coughed up blood, revealing the food was poisoned. Duan Yu quickly carried her out of the surprisingly unwarded prison towards a doctor. Gu Qingqiao told him he had fallen into her trap, threw away her ring and the hairpin he had given her, and expressed her wish that she had never met him again. Duan Yu was then knocked unconscious and tied to a tree.

His Lordship Duan Yan, finding Duan Yu incapacitated, ordered him to pursue Gu Qingqiao and find her, demanding she be brought back dead or alive. Gu Qingqiao, drifting in and out of consciousness, had a vision of Master Kongkong. The master revealed the flower-shaped mark on her ankle was her life symbol in this world, and if it turned completely black, she would die and be unable to return to her original world.

He told her the only way back was through the Four Treasures and instructed her to go west to Xiling to find the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Later, Gu Qingqiao woke up and spoke with Lu Zizheng. He confirmed her father was safe and in high spirits after hearing of her escape, and that Dongxi and Da were with him, even adding meat to their meals in celebration.

Gu Qingqiao expressed gratitude for her helpers' loyalty but questioned Lu Zizheng's identity and his ability to freely travel anywhere, including previously being hidden in her family's wine cellar and requiring her help to leave the city. She asked why he repeatedly sought her out and even saved her. Lu Zizheng replied that his identity was not important; what mattered was hers.

Gu Qingqiao went to the Acacia Tree where she and Duan Yu had buried a charm representing their bond. Finding the spot disturbed, she realized Duan Yu had stopped trusting her long ago and sadly threw away the charm.

Episode 13 Recap

Based on a tip-off, Duan Yu learned that someone resembling Gu Qingqiao had traveled north. Despite the slim chance, he felt compelled to investigate. As they prepared to depart, Miss Du arrived to see Shaoyi, who was also traveling with Duan Yu. Miss Du gave them three amulets from Shangqing Temple, asking them to give one to Gu Qingqiao if they found her, as she felt indebted to her.

Shaoyi, who had been hiding under the carriage for three days to avoid being left behind, managed to convince Duan Yu's companion, Mr. Qi, to let him accompany them, arguing it would be more troublesome to send him back. Meanwhile, Gu Qingqiao and Lu Zizheng journeyed towards Xiling, intending to find the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword.

Gu Qingqiao revealed that the petals on her leg were turning black, indicating her life was in danger if she didn't find the Four Treasures, of which the sword was one. Lu Zizheng vowed to help her, stating her life was extremely important to him because she had saved his. He recounted the sword's history: it was the treasured artifact of the Xiling Sect, granting its founder invincibility, yet its true form had never been seen.

Fifteen years prior, the Sacred Blood Sect had massacred Xiling over the sword, after which it disappeared. Rumors claimed it was destroyed, taken by the Sacred Blood Sect, or still hidden within Xiling. Despite the uncertainty, Gu Qingqiao decided to trust the possibility that it remained in Xiling. Duan Yu's group arrived near a place where the Moon Wolf Tribe conducted transactions involving captives.

Spotting a woman who looked like Gu Qingqiao among the prisoners, they created a disturbance to help the captives escape. Duan Yu pursued the look-alike, and they both fell off a cliff. He discovered she was not Gu Qingqiao but a woman from the Fire Crane Tribe. He managed to pull her up, but he fell further down the cliff himself.

Shaoyi, who was also involved in helping the captives, learned the Fire Crane Tribe's location from the rescued woman, hoping it might lead them to Duan Yu. Gu Qingqiao and Lu Zizheng arrived in Qingshui Town, disguised as a pregnant widow and a fortune teller, respectively. They noticed many people wore white and merchandise promoting "Ruan Siqiong, the greatest martial artist" was everywhere. The Yuelai Inn was hosting Ruan Siqiong.

Curiosity piqued, they decided to join the crowd, sneaking onto a rooftop with two Xiling disciples, Furong and Man Tianxing, for a better view. They witnessed someone impersonating Ruan Siqiong being confronted by Furong. Suddenly, Nangong Wuhen appeared, calling the impostor ugly and attacking. Ruan Siqiong arrived and confronted Nangong Wuhen. When Nangong Wuhen attacked Ruan Siqiong, Gu Qingqiao instinctively shielded him and was struck by Nangong Wuhen's Flame Palm. Nangong Wuhen then fled.

Gu Qingqiao fainted and was taken to the Xiling Sect by Ruan Siqiong for treatment. Waking up in the Xiling Sect, Gu Qingqiao feared she was dying. Furong reassured her that Ruan Shishu had used his Prajna Palm to treat her Flame Palm injury and that she would recover completely in three days, after which she would be allowed to leave.

Gu Qingqiao maintained her disguise as "Xiao Qing" and introduced Lu Zizheng as her "brother," "Xiao Bai," claiming they were seeking family and were disguised to avoid bandits. Recognizing that the injury allowed them legitimate entry into Xiling, Gu Qingqiao and Lu Zizheng saw an opportunity to search for the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. They agreed to split up to cover more ground.

During her treatment session with Ruan Siqiong, Gu Qingqiao subtly probed whether he remembered her, referencing a past interaction and asking if he wanted to see her throw a discus. She mimicked throwing a discus and shared a story about a doctor who had encouraged her after an arm injury, telling her life was more than just achievements or discus.

Ruan Siqiong inquired about the doctor's whereabouts, and she replied they were now far apart and might not even recognize each other. Ruan Siqiong instructed her to return daily at noon for treatment. During the treatment, he discovered that Gu Qingqiao's body absorbed his internal energy, confirming his suspicion that she was the fated person who could draw the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Gu Qingqiao attempted to gather information about the sword from Furong and other disciples.

However, they became fearful and strictly warned her never to mention the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword in Xiling again, explaining it had brought a great disaster 15 years ago and had vanished. Undeterred, Gu Qingqiao and Lu Zizheng snuck out at night to search. Lu Zizheng presented a collection of swords he found, but Gu Qingqiao immediately recognized them as worthless. They concluded that only Master Wang's Tianshan Residence and Ruan Siqiong's Dome remained to be searched.

They decided Gu Qingqiao would try to search the Dome during her treatment sessions, while Lu Zizheng would attempt to search Tianshan Residence that night. Lu Zizheng proceeded to Tianshan Residence to search but was caught by a guard named Bao. Master Wang arrived. Lu Zizheng tried to explain he was only there out of concern for his sister, which led him to trespass.

However, a Senior Disciple countered his story, accusing him of being a thief who had been scouting the area at night. The Senior Disciple also reported that many weapons were missing from the armory and blamed Lu Zizheng. Lu Zizheng vehemently denied the accusations, pointing out the lack of evidence and questioning why, if he were a thief, he would steal only inexpensive items instead of valuable ones.

Episode 14 Recap

Upon the discovery of the Trident of the Sea God and other missing weapons, which had been mistakenly taken by an artisan from the weapons workshop for repair, the Senior disciple announced the findings and apologized to Lu Zizheng for the previous suspicion of theft. Wang Tianshan dismissed the matter, telling everyone to go back to sleep, and then specifically asked Lu Zizheng, whom he called "Young Master Bai," if he would consider staying in Xiling for a longer period.

Lu Zizheng agreed, and Gu Qingqiao quickly echoed thanks on her brother's behalf. Gu Qingqiao privately expressed her worry to Lu Zizheng that their three-day healing period was almost over, meaning they would have to leave properly. Lu Zizheng suggested they find a way to stay "properly." They approached Wang Tianshan, and Gu Qingqiao attempted to offer payment for his care. They then revealed their true intention: they wanted to become disciples.

They explained their past of wandering but claimed to have been impressed by the excellent education in Xiling and wished to contribute, comparing themselves to a drop in the sea or a grain of sand. Wang Tianshan was suspicious and asked their real purpose. They insisted they genuinely loved Xiling and wanted to make contributions, mentioning they had some inherited martial arts skills.

The Senior disciple commented that Master Wang was not easily impressed and had an unusual method for selecting disciples, suggesting it was impossible for the two of them. To their surprise, Wang Tianshan accepted Lu Zizheng into the Li San Hall, praising his appearance and potential. Gu Qingqiao asked if she could also join. Wang Tianshan inquired about her age; upon learning she was sixteen, he stated she might be too old, as training would be difficult.

Gu Qingqiao pointed out his earlier remark that age wasn't an issue, noting the double standard. He then asked about her martial arts foundation, and she mentioned the Smoke Palm, which he seemed to dismiss, prompting her to defend it and accuse him of judging based on appearance. Lu Zizheng teased her about her reaction, while she urged him to think of a way for her to stay.

In the care of the Fire Crane Tribe, Xiaowu brought Duan Yu medicine. Duan Yu asked for his ring back, emphasizing its importance and offering silver in exchange. Xiaowu questioned if he was a human trafficker, calling him a liar when he denied it. The Doctor intervened, taking the ring from Xiaowu and returning it to Duan Yu, telling her to leave. Duan Yu thanked the Doctor. Panic erupted as people cried out that the Moon Wolf Tribe was coming.

Then, Shaoyi and his companions arrived, stating they were looking for Duan Yu. Xiaowu recognized them as the people who had bought slaves from the Moon Wolf Tribe and accused them of being traffickers. Shaoyi attempted to calm her, explaining they were only searching for someone. Xiaowu didn't believe him and attacked Shaoyi, accusing him of taking her uncle when he bought people from the Moon Wolf Tribe.

Shaoyi denied knowing her uncle and insisted they were merely looking for someone. The Doctor tried to stop Xiaowu's attack. Hearing the commotion, Duan Yu emerged, and Shaoyi was relieved to find him, addressing him as "Uncle." Shaoyi checked on Duan Yu's injuries, dramatically complaining about his own recent hardships and expressing how much he had missed him, though the Doctor remarked on his overacting.

Feeling discouraged after being rejected by Wang Tianshan, Gu Qingqiao wondered if Ruan Shiqiong might accept her as a disciple. She asked Ruan Shiqiong directly, but he stated he never takes disciples. She then made another attempt to impress Wang Tianshan, bringing him washing water and complimenting his skin, but he saw through her flattery and firmly refused to take her on, telling her not to bother him further. Resigned, she began packing to leave the mountain.

Ruan Shiqiong saw her off and inquired about her plans. She said she would find work in Qingshui Town and wait for her brother, painting a picture of herself as a vulnerable woman who would likely be bullied, hoping he might offer to keep her. He simply advised her to take care.

As she departed, other disciples from Xiling expressed their reluctance to see her go, and Lu Zizheng told her he would continue searching for the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, instructing her to wait in Qingshui Town, implying that finding the sword and staying alive were his primary concerns. Duan Yu expressed his gratitude to the Fire Crane Tribe by offering them two boxes of silver, which surprised Xiaowu with his apparent wealth.

Duan Yu prepared to leave, but Shaoyi suggested he stay longer to fully recover from his injuries. Xiaowu returned Duan Yu's ring, apologizing for her earlier accusations and admitting that he had saved her from falling off the cliff. Duan Yu responded that she had tended to his injuries after he fell, stating they were now even. Xiaowu persisted, asking why they had been buying slaves from the Moon Wolf Tribe.

Duan Yu explained that a friend had gone missing, and they had heard she might be among the slaves being traded by the Moon Wolf Tribe. Shaoyi then drew Xiaowu aside to provide further details. Afterward, Xiaowu playfully declared that Shaoyi would be her slave and must obey her in everything. Shaoyi cheerfully agreed, responding with "Master, eat chicken." Ruan Shiqiong spoke with Wang Tianshan, urging him to accept Dongfang Chunjiaoqing as a disciple.

Wang Tianshan initially refused, considering her ordinary and stating he didn't want to see ordinary children struggle, reflecting on his own path to success through immense effort. Ruan Shiqiong countered by mentioning that Wang Tianshan's eldest disciple had also been ordinary. After further discussion, Wang Tianshan conceded, admitting a belief that she might possess the potential to become the world's greatest. Wang Tianshan agreed to accept her.

Soon after, Lu Zizheng and Gu Qingqiao, who had been running from Shaoyi's group, were brought back to Xiling. The Senior disciple informed Gu Qingqiao that Master Wang had accepted her. Wang Tianshan formally welcomed both Lu Zizheng and Gu Qingqiao as disciples of the Li San Hall, instructing them to adhere to Xiling's rules, uphold justice, remain loyal, and support each other. The Senior was tasked with familiarizing them with Xiling and its history.

The Senior explained the structure of Xiling's eight halls and recounted the devastating battle against the Sacred Blood Gate fifteen years prior, where most of the Great Master's disciples were lost, highlighting how only Wang Tianshan survived due to injury and how Ruan Shiqiong's rise to becoming the world's No. 1 saved Xiling from decline.

Gu Qingqiao commented that the heroes had died honorably, to which the Senior replied strongly, explaining the immense loss and the resulting necessity for all disciples to be managed under the Li San Hall leader, emphasizing the tradition of paying respect to the five deceased masters. Gu Qingqiao clarified she was thinking of her own deceased family and wished to pay respects.

The Senior outlined their daily schedule: early morning lessons, followed by medical studies and martial arts practice, with Ruan Shiqiong teaching martial arts and Wang Tianshan teaching medicine. Later, Lu Zizheng observed Gu Qingqiao quickly adapting to life in Xiling and reminded her that their main objective was to find the sword and ensure their survival. Gu Qingqiao sought information, approaching another senior disciple to ask about "Qingmu. . ." , but was interrupted.

While practicing the Flowing Water Sword, Gu Qingqiao engaged in gossip about Ruan Shiqiong with another disciple. Ruan Shiqiong overheard her and called out "Dongfang Chunjiaoqing," surprising her that he remembered her full name. Gu Qingqiao complimented his smile, but Ruan Shiqiong sternly instructed her to practice the second move of the Flowing Water Sword ten times, stating he would personally inspect her progress the next day.

Unable to sleep that night, Gu Qingqiao was running outside when Ruan Shiqiong found her. They spoke about their sleeplessness; she attributed hers to too many worries, while he claimed a clear mind prevented him from sleeping even with closed eyes. Gu Qingqiao seized the opportunity to ask for more time to master the difficult Flowing Water Sword, admitting she was slow-witted. Ruan Shiqiong offered to demonstrate, showing her the technique that relied on leveraging force rather than brute strength.

Watching him, Gu Qingqiao was deeply impressed, comparing his movements to an immortal. Later, she described the demonstration to Lu Zizheng, again likening Ruan Shiqiong to an immortal and comparing his grace to Duan Yu's swordplay, prompting Lu Zizheng to tease her as a "lovesick fool." Lu Zizheng then revealed that while she was preoccupied with Ruan Shiqiong, he had searched the entire Xiling sect and discovered a forbidden area, showing her the prominent sign marking it.

They speculated about its contents—traps, man-eating monsters, and treasure—though he admitted he hadn't been inside. Gu Qingqiao decided she needed to research the forbidden area, believing the Tianlu Pavilion might contain information, particularly about the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, which was a sacred object of Xiling. She went to the Tianlu Pavilion but was stopped by a guard before entering the inner section, who strictly informed her that only the sect leader was permitted inside.

She claimed to be a new disciple seeking advanced knowledge but was told to leave. Later, she inquired about the forbidden area with another senior disciple, who confirmed its mystery, stating only the Great Master, Master Wang, and Ruan Shiqiong could access it, and validating the rumors of dangerous traps, monsters, and treasure within. That night, Lu Zizheng, masked, attempted to infiltrate the forbidden area but was discovered and injured by Ruan Shiqiong.

Separately, Gu Qingqiao was found inside the Tianlu Pavilion by Ruan Shiqiong. She claimed she had entered because the lights were on and the door was unlocked, stating she came to study all night. Ruan Shiqiong reminded her that ordinary disciples were not allowed inside. She claimed she was unaware of the rule and immediately offered to leave.

Episode 15 Recap

Master Ruan, who is known for being serious in sparring and whose sword can draw blood, engages in a practice match. Feeling scared due to a previous internal injury, Lu Zizheng asks Gu Qingqiao to block for him. Gu Qingqiao steps forward and challenges Ruan Shiqiong, declaring her ambition to be the second best in the world, conceding the first position to him. Ruan Shiqiong accepts her challenge.

As they spar briefly, Gu Qingqiao is quickly defeated and, in desperation, holds onto Ruan Shiqiong's leg to stop him. Just then, the class bell rings, and the disciples quickly disperse for lunch. Later, Gu Qingqiao expresses her fear of Master Ruan's expression during the sparring. Lu Zizheng says that once his injury heals in a few days, Ruan Shiqiong won't be able to find him, but this means they can't go to the forbidden area for now.

Gu Qingqiao confesses that she snuck into Tianlu Pavilion last night and ran into Master Ruan, worrying that he might have discovered their activities. Lu Zizheng reassures her that if they had been discovered, they wouldn't be sitting there peacefully. Gu Qingqiao still suspects something is amiss in Tianlu Pavilion and plans to return in a few days. Shaoyi is concerned about his uncle, Duan Yu, whose injuries are severe, causing him to have a fever.

He notes the lack of many rare herbs in the Fire Crane Tribe compared to Changqing. Shaoyi suggests returning to Changqing, but Xing Si points out that the journey would be too difficult for Duan Yu in his current condition. Xiaowu, overhearing their worries, offers to take Shaoyi to the Lord Witch Doctor's tent to pray with the tribe's sacred treasure, which she believes can help heal him.

She explains that the treasure protected their tribe from the Moon Wolf Tribe, violent prairie bandits who often raid them, killing the men and selling the women and children, forcing them to constantly move their camps. Xiaowu believes praying with the treasure while the Lord Witch Doctor is away will make Duan Yu recover quickly. The Lord Witch Doctor returns unexpectedly and is displeased that strangers (Shaoyi, who Xiaowu claimed was her slave) have entered a forbidden area.

The Lord Witch Doctor warns them that the Fire Crane Tribe is not safe due to the threat of the Moon Wolf Tribe and advises them to leave as soon as Duan Yu's injuries are healed. A notice is posted announcing the selection of a Grand Steward, who will have powers comparable to the Sect Leader, including maintaining rules and improving the environment. Crucially, the Grand Steward gains free access to Tianlu Pavilion and the forbidden area.

Gu Qingqiao sees this as an opportunity to search for the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Ten disciples sign up for the selection process, which includes five rounds of written and physical tests, including swordsmanship and arithmetic. In the swordsmanship round, Lu Zizheng, also known as Bai, participates and wins his match but later chooses to withdraw from the competition. The final round is an arithmetic test between Gu Qingqiao, known as Qing, and First Senior Bao Quancai.

The task is to solve the classic chicken and rabbit problem within a time limit. Although Gu Qingqiao identifies the correct answer, First Senior Bao Quancai is declared the winner of the round and acclaimed as the Grand Steward. Meanwhile, Shaoyi, persuaded by Xiaowu, attempts to steal the sacred object from the Lord Witch Doctor's tent to heal Duan Yu. Xing Si stays outside as a lookout while Xiaowu and Shaoyi sneak in.

They retrieve the object but are discovered by the Lord Witch Doctor upon returning to Duan Yu's side, where the Lord Witch Doctor was already treating him. The Lord Witch Doctor is angered by the theft, emphasizing the treasure's great significance to the tribe. Shaoyi and Xing Si admit their involvement, stating their intention was solely to help Duan Yu, and Shaoyi takes full responsibility.

The Lord Witch Doctor, acknowledging the past help the Changqing Duan family provided to their tribe, decides to overlook the theft but reiterates the need for them to leave the unsafe area immediately. However, Duan Yu notices a portrait of Qiao (Gu Qingqiao) on the sacred object. Intrigued, he tells the Lord Witch Doctor that his injuries are not yet fully healed and requests to stay for a few more days.

After Xiaowu also pleads, the Lord Witch Doctor grants his request. Later, Gu Qingqiao, now acting as the newly appointed Grand Steward, uses the official token to enter the inner chamber of Tianlu Pavilion, a section usually only accessible to the Sect Leader. She is specifically looking for information about the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword.

Searching through the texts, she finds a record detailing how the Xiling Sect's founder discovered the sword and used its immense power to become invincible, establishing the sect. The record also mentions the founder's disappearance and a warning that the sword grants great power but demands a huge price. While she is in the pavilion, Ruan Shiqiong appears and asks what she is reading.

Gu Qingqiao fabricates an excuse, claiming she couldn't sleep and was looking at a cookbook to bore herself to sleep. She asks to borrow the cookbook. Suddenly, Ruan Shiqiong collapses, seemingly losing consciousness and having no heartbeat. Gu Qingqiao immediately begins performing emergency first aid on him. Unfortunately, some fellow disciples witness this from outside and misinterpret her actions, assuming she is engaged in a romantic affair with Ruan Shiqiong.

Rumors of a secret relationship between Gu Qingqiao and Ruan Shiqiong quickly spread throughout the Xiling Sect. Gu Qingqiao brings food to Ruan Shiqiong during his recovery. He expresses his delight in being able to taste the food, having seemingly recovered a lost sense of taste. The rumors cause tension among the disciples. Man Tianxing, a fellow disciple, reacts coldly to Gu Qingqiao, asking to switch sleeping spots and expressing veiled disapproval.

Lu Zizheng notices Gu Qingqiao's distress and confronts her. She explains that she went to Tianlu Pavilion to investigate the forbidden area and the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, where she found the information about the painful price required to wield its power. She admits she is afraid of burdening Lu Zizheng with this danger. Lu Zizheng dismisses her fears, revealing his own difficult past. Born an illegitimate child of a noble family, he was forced to hide constantly.

When his family was attacked by bandits, he survived by hiding among corpses and vowed from that day forward that his fate would be his own and he would never allow anyone to easily take his life. He declares that he has already crawled out of hell and is willing to face life and death alongside her.

Later, the disciples directly question Gu Qingqiao about her relationship with Ruan Shiqiong, asking if she has feelings for him beyond that of a fellow disciple and if she kissed him. Gu Qingqiao firmly denies having any romantic feelings, stating her admiration for Ruan Shiqiong is based on his strength and the bond of fellow discipleship, and she swears she did not kiss him. However, Second Senior insists he saw something. Ruan Shiqiong arrives, having heard the rumors, and clarifies the situation, explaining that the misunderstanding arose from his actions and that "he" was the one who kissed her.

Episode 16 Recap

Gu Qingqiao clarified the incident with Ruan Shiqiong, explaining that there was no physical contact between them, separated by a great distance, and the situation was merely a misunderstanding intended to save him. Ruan Shiqiong offered to explain to others, but Gu Qingqiao insisted he shouldn't, fearing it would worsen the gossip. Instead, she planned to visibly distance herself from him, assuming that as time passed and new rumors emerged, people would forget.

Observing him closely, Gu Qingqiao noted a strange detail: Ruan Shiqiong had no heartbeat. He responded that this was because he was the greatest martial artist in the world. Later, Man Tianxing attempted to bring Ruan Shiqiong lunch but was politely declined, as he said he had already eaten and was heading to see a Senior. Dejected, Man Tianxing confessed her feelings of inadequacy to Gu Qingqiao.

She expressed her sadness that Ruan Shiqiong seemed heartless towards others, unable to remember their names or faces, yet appeared to remember Gu Qingqiao. Man Tianxing felt ordinary and weak, doubting Ruan Shiqiong could ever remember someone like her, and believed Gu Qingqiao was special to him. Gu Qingqiao shared a story about a friend who, similar to Man Tianxing, sacrificed everything to please someone she admired greatly.

This friend eventually realized her efforts only moved herself, not the other person, and she lost parts of herself in the process. Gu Qingqiao emphasized that Man Tianxing was already a good person and should focus on loving herself first. Man Tianxing suspected the friend was Gu Qingqiao herself, which Gu Qingqiao denied. Man Tianxing further inquired if this friend now loved herself, to which Gu Qingqiao replied she was still in the process of trying.

Regarding the person the friend liked, Gu Qingqiao revealed they never truly had a chance to be together before their connection faded into the past. Late one night, Gu Qingqiao discovered Lu Zizheng in the kitchen, bleeding profusely. She was distressed, asking why he hadn't told her he was injured and why he had been so impulsive in a fight.

Lu Zizheng dismissively asked what telling her would accomplish, as she couldn't fight or heal him, asserting that her focus should remain on finding the sword. Gu Qingqiao tearfully apologized for not noticing his injury and feeling like a burden. Lu Zizheng, in his usual blunt manner, told her he was willing to bear the burden, that he would remember everything she did, and harshly told her not to cry as she looked ugly, calling her a "trouble."

He assured her his "worthless life" wouldn't be taken easily and shrugged off concern about his injury, claiming an "exceptional physique." Sometime after, Ruan Shiqiong found Gu Qingqiao preoccupied and asked if she was thinking about someone from the past. Gu Qingqiao mentioned seeing a heart pattern she didn't understand. Ruan Shiqiong explained it symbolized love and playfully critiqued the drawing's shape.

He then explained the meaning of the cloud imagery in the pattern, linking it to his name which meant 'sky' and the desire for freedom in his presence. Gu Qingqiao thanked him, saying she liked it, and Ruan Shiqiong gently encouraged her, telling her she was doing well now and needed to move forward from the past.

Shaoyi, hiding, was found by Wu, who praised his ability to conceal himself, even from the witch doctor, a skill he'd honed since childhood dealing with Mr. Qi and Ruo Yi. Wu affectionately called him "my slave," prompting Shaoyi to wonder how long he could remain her slave. Wu said she would ask the witch doctor not to let him leave, and Shaoyi promised not to go without her permission.

As Wu prepared to leave, worried about being discovered, Shaoyi suggested she come with him. Wu questioned this, asking how a master could follow a slave. Shaoyi countered by suggesting he become the master and she the slave, a proposition Wu disagreed with. Just then, Duan Yu arrived, requesting a favor from Shaoyi. Duan Yu needed to acquire the sacred object of the Fire Crane Tribe without Mr. Qi's knowledge, using Shaoyi's name to do so.

Shaoyi connected this to Duan Yu's earlier decision to stay. Duan Yu explained his suspicion that the sacred object was somehow related to Gu Qingqiao, though it was just a suspicion. Observing Shaoyi's affection for Wu, Duan Yu pointed out the significant disparity in their status. Shaoyi retorted that Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao faced similar differences, implying that if Duan Yu could pursue such a relationship, he could too.

Duan Yu advised him that if he had made up his mind, he must persevere until the end. Having taken on the role of Grand Steward, Gu Qingqiao discovered she had inadvertently depleted Xiling's funds, leading to a severe financial deficit. Faced with bills for essentials like lamp oil and realizing the extent of the problem (-10 then -100), she confessed to a fellow disciple, fearing Master Wang Tianshan would expel her.

The disciple suggested they abandon the sect and find the sword in the forbidden area together. Later, while attempting to explore the forbidden area, Gu Qingqiao was intercepted by First Senior Brother, who had suspected her actions. He accused her of trying to steal treasure from the forbidden area to cover the sect's debts, arguing that according to the rules, she should be expelled.

Gu Qingqiao denied theft, explaining that the money vanished quickly due to her allowing excessive use of resources like lamp oil and good food for the disciples, admitting her lack of foresight as Grand Steward. She revealed her true intention: to investigate the hot spring within the forbidden area. She proposed opening it to the public as a bathing center to generate income for the sect, citing a book written by the founder that mentioned a spring in the area.

Ruan Shiqiong confirmed he had seen her reading the book. However, Master Wang Tianshan appeared, having been informed, and flatly rejected the idea, calling it "ridiculous" and beneath the dignity of a prestigious sect. He forbade any commercial activity and suggested pawning ancient formulas instead. Undeterred, Gu Qingqiao gathered her senior siblings and other disciples to present her plan.

She displayed the founder's book as evidence of the hot spring and referenced the Grand Steward's manual to assert her right to plan and manage Xiling's land, including the forbidden area. She appealed for their collective support. First Senior Brother immediately sided with Master Wang Tianshan and refused to help persuade him. However, others, including Ruan Shiqiong, voiced their support. Ruan Shiqiong surprised Gu Qingqiao by agreeing without hesitation, stating his trust in her decisions for Xiling's benefit.

With Ruan Shiqiong's backing, many disciples rallied behind Gu Qingqiao. Only Master Wang Tianshan and First Senior Brother remained opposed. Someone suggested asking Junior Bai (Lu Zizheng) to persuade Master, as Master favored him, but Gu Qingqiao was skeptical due to Lu Zizheng's rebellious nature. First Senior Sister offered to try and convince First Senior Brother.

The next day, to everyone's surprise, Master Wang Tianshan announced his approval of the hot spring development plan, even urging First Senior Brother to be flexible. First Senior Brother voiced strong opposition, fearing the sect would be mocked, but Master Wang Tianshan declared he would bear any blame and appointed Gu Qingqiao to lead the project, ordering all disciples to cooperate.

First Senior Brother continued to object, but Lu Zizheng (Junior Bai) stepped forward, urging Master to begin the project as soon as possible, suggesting they start the next day. Master Wang Tianshan agreed with Lu Zizheng, and the project was set in motion for the following day. Work began to transform the forbidden area.

Gu Qingqiao outlined plans for an entrance leading to the natural hot spring, with three specialty pools featuring unique medicinal formulas based on Master's prescriptions for essential medicine bags. She assigned tasks, including Senior Guan to create the medicine bags and Senior Fu Rong to oversee construction and landscaping, setting a tight three-day deadline. As disciples worked diligently, Gu Qingqiao thanked Lu Zizheng, acknowledging his role in persuading Master.

Lu Zizheng retorted by asking why she wasn't helping with the labor, questioning why he should support the plan. He explained that their primary goal was to find the sword, and maintaining their "disciple persona" was just part of the mission until they located it. He declared he was going back to sleep, dismissing the labor. They playfully argued, Gu Qingqiao threatening to end their association, and he daring her to find a knife.

The team brainstormed names for the bathing center, settling on "Penglai Fairy Pool Bathing Center," which they felt sounded impressive. They also planned peripheral businesses like a medicine picking garden and health lectures. While discussing ideas, Gu Qingqiao sampled the proposed "Xiling's Special Drink," which was actually a medicine for fire poison. Another senior stopped her, remarking on how she had changed from being uninterested in anything to being curious about everything, suggesting it was perhaps a good thing.

Another senior inquired if she had informed Master Wang Tianshan about the development. Gu Qingqiao confirmed she had gotten his approval but didn't know his current location, speculating he might be overseas searching for an elixir, expressing a desire for him to return for the opening. On the day of the grand opening, Ruan Shiqiong unexpectedly arrived at the bathing center, surprising Gu Qingqiao. He warmly welcomed the attendees.

Gu Qingqiao announced that everyone present for the opening would receive a complimentary essential medicine bag. The crowd cheered. First Senior Brother observed the successful opening, conceding that she had done a good job. As everyone celebrated, Ruan Shiqiong was asked to join a group photo. Gu Qingqiao declared she had a way to take a photo despite the lack of cameras.

Episode 17 Recap

The spa center opened and immediately earned five hundred taels. The disciples were overjoyed, dreaming of regular meat meals and new clothes. Gu Qingqiao assured them their financial worries were over with the spa running. Lu Zizheng asked if the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword had been found in the forbidden area. Gu Qingqiao confirmed it hadn't, despite a thorough search including underwater.

Lu Zizheng told her to stop worrying about the spa center now that the forbidden area was ruled out, expressing concern that she might "die before achieving success," noting three petals of her flower had already turned dark, indicating a time limit. He mentioned only Tianshan Residence at Tianwang Mountain and Ruan Shiqiong's dome remained unchecked. He found Tianshan Residence easier to investigate, but Ruan Shiqiong's high martial arts made a direct confrontation undesirable.

Lu Zizheng planned to go to Tianshan Residence himself, urging Gu Qingqiao to be careful. Soon after, patrons at the spa center developed severe itching and hair loss. Although the Xiling disciples tried to treat the symptoms, the patients showed little improvement, leading them to suspect poisoning. Just then, Shen You, the Lord of the Herbal King Valley, arrived and began offering treatments that miraculously cured the spa's afflicted customers.

Witnessing this, the disciples realized the spa's problems were linked to the Herbal King Valley. Shen You began to provoke the Xiling Sect, boasting about his skills. Gu Qingqiao confronted him, insulting his appearance. Shen You grabbed her arm, but Lu Zizheng quickly intervened, hitting him. As others moved to attack Shen You, Lu Zizheng asked Gu Qingqiao why she hadn't broken free.

She explained that she had lost all strength, making Lu Zizheng fear she might have been poisoned as well. To uncover the nature of the poison, they devised a plan using a "honey trap." They dressed up a senior disciple, Fu Rong, to approach Shen You at the Xiling Sect gate, pretending to seek treatment.

Fu Rong skillfully flattered Shen You, who, eager to impress, revealed that the spa customers were suffering from a poison called "Lovesickness," a specialty of the Herbal King Valley, describing its symptoms of intense itching and blisters. He offered the antidote in exchange for favors. When Shen You became too forward, Fu Rong revealed the trap. The Xiling disciples then beat Shen You and threw him into the pool, causing him to be poisoned by his own "Lovesickness."

Meanwhile, Shaoyi attempted to purchase the Fire Crane Tribe's sacred object from the Witch Doctor, offering a large sum of money. The Witch Doctor refused, stating the sacred object was invaluable and not for sale, dismissing Shaoyi's companion, who referred to it merely as a "thing." The Witch Doctor was angered by this disrespect towards their sacred relic and asked them to leave. Suddenly, members of the Moon Wolf Tribe attacked the Fire Crane Tribe.

The Fire Crane tribe members gathered, praying to the sacred object for protection and silencing Duan Yu and Shaoyi. Duan Yu, however, hid and shot arrows to drive off the attackers. Afterward, Duan Yu spoke with the Witch Doctor, acknowledging the tribe's belief that the sacred object protected them from the Moon Wolf Tribe through prayer.

He proposed that if he could guarantee the Fire Crane Tribe's safety by himself, the sacred object would lose its purpose for them and could be given to him. The Witch Doctor agreed to this condition, stating that if Duan Yu could single-handedly ensure the Moon Wolf Tribe would never again threaten the Fire Crane Tribe, he would believe the sacred object should belong to such a strong individual.

Shaoyi expressed deep concern about Duan Yu's plan to go to the Moon Wolf Tribe, suggesting alternative methods, but Duan Yu was resolute. He explained that the sacred object was called Meridian Gate, one of the Four Treasures, and he needed to obtain it for Qiao (Gu Qingqiao). Wu, overhearing, asked Shaoyi why Duan Yu was so determined to get the sacred object.

Shaoyi told her it was for his loved one, adding that he now understood such sacrifice since meeting Wu. Wu asked if he would be sad if Duan Yu died, to which Shaoyi replied he would be sadder than if he himself died. Wu reassured him that Duan Yu would be safe. Duan Yu set out with a cart of wine, encountering the Moon Wolf Tribe.

He offered them the wine hoping they would introduce him to their chief, but Wu had followed him and was captured by the Moon Wolf tribesmen. To protect Wu, Duan Yu was forced to kill the tribesmen, abandoning his initial plan and asking Wu to assist him. Gu Qingqiao invited Ruan Shiqiong for drinks under the pretense of celebrating his recovery of taste and resolving Xiling's economic troubles.

This was a distraction for Lu Zizheng to search Ruan Shiqiong's dome for the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. During their conversation, Ruan Shiqiong mentioned that his Senior Brother's Tianshan Residence had been entered by an intruder, noting his medicine had been moved. He added that he had prepared by placing poison powder in his room. Hearing this, Gu Qingqiao feigned needing to use the latrine to warn Lu Zizheng.

In the dome, Lu Zizheng found a sword and was about to draw it when Gu Qingqiao arrived, but it was too late. Both were exposed to a powder on the sword. They quickly realized it was fragrant powder, not poison, and that Ruan Shiqiong had known they were searching for the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword all along.

Meanwhile, Shen You was distraught that his "Immortal Not Saving You" poison had been stolen and accused the Xiling Sect of taking it. Gu Qingqiao, mistakenly believing Lu Zizheng had stolen it to use against Ruan Shiqiong, rushed to prevent Ruan Shiqiong from drinking his tea. Ruan Shiqiong directly addressed her true purpose – searching for the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Lu Zizheng emerged to protect Gu Qingqiao but was outmatched by Ruan Shiqiong.

Gu Qingqiao offered Ruan Shiqiong a deal: she would reveal why she needed the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword if he would let Lu Zizheng go. Ruan Shiqiong agreed. Gu Qingqiao confessed that she sought the sword to save her mother, Dongfang Qiushuang. Ruan Shiqiong agreed to help her find the sword.

To formalize this, Gu Qingqiao drafted an agreement stating that Ruan Shiqiong would help her obtain the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, protect her, and that the sword would belong to her, with the agreement valid forever and Gu Qingqiao (referred to by her nickname, Qing) having the final interpretation rights. Ruan Shiqiong signed it with a fingerprint.

He then explained that the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword is located in the Jiuqing Secret Cave, which can only be opened by his master, Zhang Sifeng, the head of the Xiling Sect.

Episode 18 Recap

Many years ago, the founder of the Xiling Sect discovered the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword on Xiling Mountain. Using its power, he became invincible in the martial arts world and established the sect. Since then, a mission has been passed down through generations of Xiling sect chiefs: to wait for the person who can pull the sword out. Neither the founder nor any subsequent chief has been able to do so.

The former master told Ruan Shiqiong that true strength isn't just power and advised him not to be blinded by obsession. Ruan Shiqiong learned that sacrificing his heart to the sword would grant him power feared by mortals, making him invincible, but at a great cost. With his heart on the sword, he would lose all emotions and only await death from the moment of sacrifice.

Despite this, Ruan Shiqiong declared he wanted to pull the sword and become a strong man like the founder, the disciple his master was proudest of, and ensure Xiling was never attacked by foreign enemies. He was willing to sacrifice his life to become the greatest martial artist in the world and protect Xiling's glory. Fifteen years passed, and the person he was waiting for finally arrived. Duan Yu traveled to the Moon Wolf Tribe camp.

His plan involved entering the camp and setting a fire as a signal for Xiaowu to release horses with firecrackers tied behind them, causing chaos. He would then seize the Moon Wolf leader and use him as leverage to prevent future attacks on the Fire Crane Tribe. As Xiaowu prepared to act, a Moon Wolf tribesman she had encountered earlier, who was thought to be dead, reappeared.

In a moment of danger, Xiaowu killed the tribesman and proceeded with the plan. Duan Yu confronted the Moon Wolf leader but was severely injured during the fight. Xiaowu helped the injured Duan Yu escape the camp. Shaoyi, leading a team of Wuyi Guards, met them outside the Moon Wolf Tribe grounds and took them back. Duan Yu had fulfilled the task given by the doctor, but his tendons and blood vessels were badly damaged.

The doctor's efforts saved his life, but he needed extensive rest and could not move. Xiaowu felt immense guilt, believing Duan Yu's severe arm injury was a result of her needing rescue. She had intended to help but felt she had only become a burden. Shaoyi comforted her, emphasizing that she had saved Duan Yu's life by bringing him out of the Moon Wolf Tribe.

Shaoyi confessed that he felt useless, unable to protect her adequately, especially after she faced danger because of him. He decided they needed to separate for a time so he could become stronger. Meanwhile, Duan Yu learned from Xing Si that Gu Qingqiao had been located on Xiling Mountain in Qingshui Town and planned to leave immediately to find her. The doctor urged him to stay and recover from his injuries, but Duan Yu insisted he had his own arrangements.

He requested the sacred object as previously agreed. However, when the doctor went to retrieve it, it was missing. Upon discovering the disappearance, he asked about Xiaowu, realizing she had taken the sacred object. Duan Yu found Xiaowu and asked her to return the sacred object. Xiaowu agreed but demanded that Shaoyi remain with her.

Duan Yu explained that his desire for strength stemmed from his fear of losing a loved one due to inability to protect them, a regret he carried from a past failure to stand by his beloved. He said Shaoyi likely didn't want to experience the same regret. Xiaowu countered that Duan Yu, despite his strength, had still lost his beloved.

Duan Yu revealed that the woman he loved looked exactly like the Goddess depicted on their sacred object, which made him believe it was connected to her. Xiaowu stated she didn't need Shaoyi's protection and insisted he come talk to her himself. Shaoyi then told Xiaowu that he needed to become stronger because he felt useless and incapable of protecting her, citing Duan Yu's loss as an example of strength not being enough without companionship.

Xiaowu, identifying herself as a prairie woman who didn't need male protection, challenged him not to use that as an excuse to leave. She demanded that if his intentions were true and not merely a scheme to take the sacred object, he should prove it by returning to the Fire Crane Tribe with the woman who resembled their Goddess. If he did that, she would believe him and return the sacred object.

Shaoyi promised to return and stay with her forever, declaring her his slave regardless of where she went. Xiaowu told him to leave, asserting that prairie women didn't cry over men. Duan Yu and his group then departed, saying goodbye to the doctor. In the Xiling Sect, Gu Qingqiao wondered when the Great Master would return. Her master reminded her about the upcoming annual exam, which would cover medical classics and include problem-solving questions.

Failing the exam would result in severe punishment, including expulsion. Students hoped Ruan Shiqiong would be the invigilator, believing he would be lenient and allow them to cheat. Gu Qingqiao confirmed that Ruan Shiqiong would indeed be the invigilator. During the exam, students attempted to cheat but were caught by Ruan Shiqiong. He warned that any further cheating or failing the exam would lead to expulsion from the sect. The results showed that Lu Huahua and Gu Qingqiao failed.

They and other students who failed pleaded with Ruan Shiqiong for another chance. He agreed to a makeup exam in three days, stating that passing it would allow them to remain in the sect. Dongfangchun Mubai, who scored highest, helped tutor the failing students, including Gu Qingqiao and Lu Huahua, but found them difficult to teach.

Gu Qingqiao also asked Ruan Shiqiong if he would still help her find the sword if she was expelled, and he replied that it was not certain unless she passed the exam. After the makeup exam, the disciples discovered that Guan Mu was missing. Shen You had earlier attempted to persuade Guan Mu, who was preparing to leave the sect and was waiting for someone, to return with him to the Herbal King Valley, but Guan Mu refused.

When the disciples realized Guan Mu was missing, they asked villagers about him. The First Senior declared his responsibility to go down the mountain and find him, and all the disciples vowed to join the search, upholding the sect's rule of mutual support. Ruan Shiqiong also decided to accompany them. They searched throughout the morning and eventually discovered a body by the river. Recognizing a bag near the body, they confirmed it was Guan Mu. The government officers arrived and secured the scene. The disciples were devastated to find Guan Mu dead.

Episode 19 Recap

Guan Mu's father mourns the death of his young son. Gu Qingqiao expresses her doubts about Guan Mu's death, finding it suspicious. She questions why he would have scheduled a patient visit if he intended to commit suicide. If it wasn't suicide, she reasons, then someone deliberately placed his shoes by the river to create that impression, suggesting murder.

Ruan Shiqiong acknowledges the peculiarity but urges Gu Qingqiao to leave for Xiling immediately, stating he has informed their master, and they could get the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword quickly. Gu Qingqiao insists they must investigate Guan Mu's murder, stating she cannot bear to let him die without justice as he was their fellow disciple.

Ruan Shiqiong notes her deep bond with the Xiling disciples despite her primary goal of obtaining the sword, expressing his pleasure and hope that she will protect Xiling once she acquires it. Gu Qingqiao dismisses this, saying Xiling is secure under his protection. Lu Zizheng tells Gu Qingqiao to abandon the investigation and prioritize returning to Xiling for the sword.

He understands her urgent need for the sword in a way Ruan Shiqiong does not, hinting that she might not get another chance. Gu Qingqiao remains resolute in uncovering the truth about Guan Mu's death. Unable to persuade her, Lu Zizheng arranges for a Taoist priest to visit Guan Mu's family and advise them to bury their son quickly, suggesting a wrongful death could bring misfortune if the burial is delayed.

Gu Qingqiao, Lu Huahua, and other Xiling disciples approach Guan Mu's grieving father as he prepares for the burial. They plead with him to delay the funeral, explaining their suspicion of murder and their intention to find the killer. The father is torn, having been told by both the officials and the Taoist that it was suicide and prompt burial is necessary. Lu Huahua passionately vows to avenge Guan Mu with her life if he was murdered.

The disciples assure the father that Xiling will not forsake one of its own. Moved by their sincerity, Guan Mu's father agrees to trust them and postpones the burial, offering a deserted yard at Mr. Liao's inn for them to keep the body temporarily, asking them to keep the reason discreet from other guests. As the disciples prepare the yard, Lu Zizheng stands aside, seemingly detached. Gu Qingqiao encourages him to help, speaking about human interconnectedness, which Lu Zizheng rejects.

Ruan Shiqiong suggests Gu Qingqiao accompany him to visit an acquaintance who might help identify the unique martial art suspected in Guan Mu's death. They travel to a remote mountain dwelling. Upon arrival, they find the dwelling isolated with a tombstone nearby. Ruan Shiqiong reveals it belongs to his Senior Sister, Shan Yao.

He recounts the devastating battle fifteen years prior against the Sacred Blood Sect, where seven masters fought; five died, two, Song Qi and Shan Yao, went missing, and their master survived only because he was injured and couldn't participate. Song Qi, one of the missing masters, appears and is initially cold, telling Ruan Shiqiong he is not welcome.

Gu Qingqiao introduces herself as a junior disciple and respectfully acknowledges Song Qi's past heroism in defending Xiling, appealing to him to help investigate the recent death of a fellow disciple. Song Qi refuses, saying he has left the martial world behind. Ruan Shiqiong attempts to persuade him, reminding him of their history and acknowledging Song Qi was once considered the best martial artist.

Inside, Song Qi offers them tea made from dried bamboo leaves, a method his wife taught him. He confirms a painting is of his late wife, Shan Yao, who died ten years ago, and the tomb in the yard is hers. Gu Qingqiao apologizes for the insensitive topic. Song Qi accepts her apology, stating it was long ago. He inquires about their master, and Ruan Shiqiong says he is well.

Song Qi reminisces about the master being troublesome and Ruan Shiqiong being the youngest disciple, recalling Shan Yao predicting Ruan Shiqiong's extraordinary future. He accepts the past cannot be revisited and asks what they want. Ruan Shiqiong asks him to examine Guan Mu's body to determine the type of martial art that killed him. Song Qi again declines, unwilling to re-engage with the martial world.

Observing Song Qi's home, Gu Qingqiao notes his deep devotion to Shan Yao, preserving everything as it was when she was alive, including her favorite kites and camellias, which she realizes helps him cope with his grief. Ruan Shiqiong explains that Song Qi had intended to die with Shan Yao, but he saved him, though Song Qi became a different person afterward, living a repetitive life. He then reveals that Shan Yao died because of him.

He recounts the past: when Shan Yao was gravely ill, Song Qi begged their master to use the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword's spiritual power to save her, but the sword was in the Jiuqing Secret Cave only the master could access. Song Qi implored Ruan Shiqiong, the master's favored disciple, to ask for help. Ruan Shiqiong explained the complexity of using the sword. Song Qi offered his own life in exchange for Shan Yao's.

The master refused, sending Ruan Shiqiong to escort Song Qi out. The master later revealed to Ruan Shiqiong that saving Shan Yao with the sword required her to sacrifice her heart, which would kill Ruan Shiqiong, and even if she lived, she would be like him, "though alive, like dead," cursed by the sword. The master refused to let the curse continue.

Shan Yao died, making Ruan Shiqiong promise her something and expressing a wish to fly kites with Song Qi again. Song Qi tried to burn himself with her body, but Ruan Shiqiong saved him. Ruan Shiqiong tells Gu Qingqiao that meeting her has reminded him of the pain of that time and his regret. Gu Qingqiao shares her understanding of death, describing three stages, suggesting that remembrance keeps a person from the final death.

She tells Ruan Shiqiong that because Song Qi remembers Shan Yao, she is not truly gone, and cherishing life is the best way to remember the departed. Ruan Shiqiong expresses his gratitude and hopes she never experiences such regret, pondering whether the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword truly saves people and hoping it does, so she won't feel as helpless as he did when facing the loss of a loved one.

Gu Qingqiao attempts to lighten the mood by suggesting they get something to eat. Meanwhile, the Xiling disciples at the inn search anxiously for Lu Zizheng throughout the night after Guan Mu's death. The following morning, Gu Qingqiao finds him, having initially feared he had left without notice. Lu Zizheng states he returned to help quickly resolve the truth about Guan Mu's death so they can return to Xiling for the sword.

He admits he considered leaving but couldn't leave her alone. Lu Zizheng and others discuss who might have seen Guan Mu before his death. They decide to question the Herbal King Valley people, as they were in town for medical visits. They find Shen You and ask if he saw Guan Mu. Shen You confirms he spoke to Guan Mu by the river around dawn on the day he died, telling him others were looking for him.

Guan Mu mentioned he had a patient appointment, and they parted ways. Gu Qingqiao, Lu Huahua, and others return to Song Qi's house to pay respects to Shan Yao, bringing camellias. Gu Qingqiao tells Song Qi that if he doesn't agree to help, she will stay by Shan Yao's tomb until he does. Song Qi notes Gu Qingqiao's pure heart and resemblance to Shan Yao, expressing reluctance for her to suffer.

Lu Huahua also earnestly pleads for his help to find justice for Guan Mu. Moved by their sincerity, particularly Gu Qingqiao's determination, Song Qi agrees to accompany them back to the inn. He thanks Gu Qingqiao for the camellias, believing Shan Yao would appreciate them. Back at the inn, Song Qi is introduced to the other disciples. He examines Guan Mu's body, observing a small red bleeding point near the temple.

He concludes that a dissection is required to definitively identify the martial art used. The disciples request waiting until after the "first three" days have passed before dissection, and Song Qi agrees, stating he also needs time to prepare. Ruan Shiqiong organizes the disciples to take turns guarding the spirit. Gu Qingqiao is on guard duty when Senior Bao appears, startling her. As Senior Bao examines the body, Guan Mu suddenly reanimates and attacks.

Senior Bao and Senior Fu Rong try to fight the reanimated body but are overwhelmed. Ruan Shiqiong arrives and subdues Guan Mu using the Prajna Palm. However, Song Qi notes that this move shattered Guan Mu's heart meridian, complicating the process of identifying the original cause of death, and he will need more time. Drawn by the sounds of the struggle, other disciples rush to the scene. They find Man Tianxing dead and Lu Zizheng standing nearby.

The disciples demand an explanation. Lu Zizheng confesses to killing her, claiming she attacked him first and he acted in self-defense. Ruan Shiqiong declares that Lu Zizheng must be punished for killing a fellow disciple according to sect rules. Gu Qingqiao intercedes, begging Ruan Shiqiong to spare Lu Zizheng and offering to atone for him. Lu Zizheng rejects her plea, asserting he did nothing wrong.

He challenges the other disciples' self-righteousness, arguing they would have done the same in his situation. He defiantly states that if anyone attacks him in the future, he will kill them regardless of who they are, including fellow disciples. He dares Ruan Shiqiong to kill him but reminds him that he, too, is a disciple of Xiling, implying Ruan Shiqiong would also face consequences.

Episode 20 Recap

Lu Zizheng expressed his regret for his brother's actions and offered to atone, suggesting they first uncover the truth. Ruan Shiqiong dismissed his plea, stating truthfully that he had never regretted killing Man Tianxing. He then told Lu Zizheng that Xiling could no longer shelter him and ordered him to leave and never return. Lu Zizheng reacted emotionally, asking if he was being expelled, but Ruan Shiqiong insisted this was his final act of tolerance.

Accepting his fate, Lu Zizheng declared he had long wanted to leave the place. As he turned to go, he called out to Gu Qingqiao, asking her to wait. He confronted her, recounting how he had traveled far and been injured for her, and questioned what she was doing when others threatened him. He then demanded to know what he truly was to her.

Gu Qingqiao called him her best friend, but he sharply rejected this, stating he was neither her friend, fellow disciple, nor family, but merely the last lifeline she grabbed when she was falling. Now that things were smooth, he felt useless. He told her that he wasn't the Lu Zizheng she perceived and advised her to take care. When she asked where he was going, he responded it was none of her concern.

Ruan Shiqiong found no unusual signs on Gu Qingqiao and believed the blood spots on Guan Mu might have been coincidental, stating he hadn't found commonalities between the two deaths or seen this invisible martial art before. Gu Qingqiao felt something was wrong, asking Ruan Shiqiong if he didn't find the events of the previous night too coincidental. She pointed out Man Tianxing's sudden death while they were occupied with Guan Mu, suggesting it was a diversion.

They wondered about the motive and if it was targeting Xiling. Gu Qingqiao agreed, noting they had focused on the method of killing but overlooked the motive. Ruan Shiqiong mentioned Xiling's peaceful nature, making enemies unlikely. They considered if it was a personal vendetta targeting someone specific.

Gu Qingqiao initially dismissed this but then thought of Song Qi, quickly ruling him out due to his lost martial arts abilities, believing he couldn't control skilled fighters like Guan Mu and Man Tianxing. They concluded the culprit might still be in the inn, observing them. They decided to ask the innkeeper for the guest list. However, the waiter informed them only the Manager had access to the list and he was currently out, despite searching for him.

Gu Qingqiao confided in Ruan Shiqiong that she still felt something was amiss. She mentioned her brother Lu Zizheng's letter, which claimed Man Tianxing attacked first, and while his brother was extreme, he wouldn't kill innocents unless forced. She noted that both Guan Mu and Man Tianxing had suddenly acted abnormally, as if they were controlled. Ruan Shiqiong confirmed Lu Zizheng was no longer a Xiling disciple and was possibly safer now.

Realizing the danger, Ruan Shiqiong declared they shouldn't stay and should return to Xiling immediately. As Lu Huahua turned to leave, he discovered the inn Manager was dead too. Gu Qingqiao had a sudden realization, pointing out how the names of the deceased – Mu, Ren, Xing, and Qing – sounded like a pun for "Black Wood Human-shaped Sword."

She theorized the killer's true objective was the sword, and if they didn't surrender it, the killing would continue, potentially targeting her next. Suddenly, Gu Qingqiao turned her sword on Ruan Shiqiong, crying out that she couldn't control herself and begging for help. Ruan Shiqiong refused to leave her. Lu Huahua arrived, witnessed the fight, and asked what was happening, but Gu Qingqiao, still out of control, attacked him, forcing him to dodge.

Lu Huahua called for help, suspecting she might be poisoned. Ruan Shiqiong realized she was being controlled. He opened a window and discovered Lord Shen of Herbal King Valley was the culprit. Shen You admitted to using sorcery, controlling people's meridians with "puppet strings." He confirmed he had controlled both Guan Mu and Man Tianxing.

Since they had discovered him, he demanded the location of the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, threatening to kill Gu Qingqiao otherwise, saying if killing her wasn't enough, he would kill more Xiling disciples. Gu Qingqiao, still partially aware, told Shen You that only the Grand Steward knew where the sword was. Ruan Shiqiong attempted to cut the puppet strings binding Gu Qingqiao, but she, under Shen You's control, stabbed him. Shen You then took Gu Qingqiao away.

Master Bao Quancai and Fu Rong arrived. Ruan Shiqiong, injured but alive, urged Master Bao to pursue Gu Qingqiao. Master Bao went after Shen You and Gu Qingqiao, confronting Shen You and declaring he was there to avenge Guan Mu and Man Tianxing. Master Bao bravely tried to protect Gu Qingqiao, stating he would not let Shen You kill another Xiling disciple, but Shen You killed him.

Shen You again demanded the sword from Gu Qingqiao, threatening her with the same fate as Master Bao if she didn't comply. Gu Qingqiao, thinking quickly, lied to Shen You, telling him the sword's location was only known by Ruan Shiqiong, and that she had just killed him, so no one in the world knew its whereabouts. Shen You was enraged, calling her an idiot for tricking him and preparing to kill her.

However, Ruan Shiqiong reappeared, revealing he was not dead, and killed Shen You, stating he would personally send Shen You to hell for killing Xiling disciples. Gu Qingqiao recovered and showed Ruan Shiqiong the puppet strings she found on Shen You, concluding he used them to control his victims. They questioned why the puppet strings were a weapon of Herbal King Valley, as they had only heard of them in the martial arts world.

They suspected there was someone else behind Shen You. Ruan Shiqiong suggested they consult Song Qi, hoping he could identify the strings' origin and help find the real mastermind. They went to Song Qi. Ruan Shiqiong explained Shen You was the murderer and wanted the sword, showing him the puppet strings. Song Qi asked Gu Qingqiao to leave so he could speak with Ruan Shiqiong privately.

Outside, Gu Qingqiao noticed a second grave beside Shan Yao's, marked "Grave of late husband, Song Qi," and realized Song Qi had faked his death. She also observed that the string of a paper kite near the graves felt wrong. Inside, Song Qi revealed his resentment, asking Ruan Shiqiong how someone with his limited talent became the world's No.1, demanding to know if his power came from the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Ruan Shiqiong admitted it did.

Song Qi bitterly revealed his anger that Master had used the sword for Ruan Shiqiong but not to save Shan Yao, criticizing Xiling's motto. He confessed he had used the puppet strings to repair his own meridians, gaining power to seek revenge on Ruan Shiqiong. Ruan Shiqiong confronted him, asking why he had hurt innocent Xiling disciples when his grievance was with him. Gu Qingqiao, having realized the truth, banged on the door.

Song Qi, realizing Gu Qingqiao was important to Ruan Shiqiong, saw her as a weakness and attacked Ruan Shiqiong, binding him with puppet strings. Gu Qingqiao broke in and threatened to burn the place, including Shan Yao's portraits and belongings, if he didn't release Ruan Shiqiong. Song Qi dared her to try. Ruan Shiqiong pleaded with Song Qi to stop making mistakes.

When Song Qi refused to release him, stating Ruan Shiqiong couldn't escape the strings, Gu Qingqiao declared she would burn them, igniting the area near Shan Yao's portrait to save Ruan Shiqiong. The place caught fire. As Ruan Shiqiong and Gu Qingqiao escaped, Song Qi, consumed by the flames, accused Ruan Shiqiong of being responsible for his and Shan Yao's deaths, stating he was coming for Shan Yao.

Ruan Shiqiong called out to Song Qi and Shan Yao, saying they would always be family, telling Song Qi to leave, though Song Qi was already perishing. Ruan Shiqiong then told Gu Qingqiao it was over and they should go home, mentioning they would take Master Bao and the others back. Returning to Xiling with the bodies of Master Bao and Man Tianxing, they were met by Duan Yu and Xing Si.

Gu Qingqiao assumed they were there to capture her. Ruan Shiqiong stepped forward, claiming she was just a Xiling disciple named Qing who didn't know Duan Yu, and stated they were taking her back to the sect. Duan Yu introduced himself and said he was looking for Gu Qingqiao. Gu Qingqiao confirmed to Ruan Shiqiong that she was the person Duan Yu sought, promising to explain later, but publicly denied knowing Duan Yu.

Duan Yu tried to explain, but Gu Qingqiao refused to give him a chance, stating they needed to return to the mountain. To force the issue, Xing Si deliberately injured Duan Yu's arm, then pointed out his injury and asked for help, appealing to Xiling's medical reputation and their shared origin from Changqing. Ruan Shiqiong consulted Gu Qingqiao, who decided to allow them to follow back to Xiling for treatment.

Once at Xiling, Fu Rong was assigned to treat Duan Yu. Xing Si expressed his frustration at Gu Qingqiao's coldness, pointing out how badly Duan Yu was injured for her sake. Duan Yu, however, felt he had hurt her too deeply. Ruan Shiqiong reiterated to Xing Si that Gu Qingqiao was his disciple Qing, and warned that if they harbored other intentions, Xiling would not tolerate them. Xing Si confirmed he understood.

Duan Yu still intended to find an opportunity to explain everything to Gu Qingqiao himself. Master Wang Tianshan was distraught upon seeing the bodies of his disciples, particularly Master Bao, demanding to know who was responsible for their deaths. Ruan Shiqiong explained the situation, including Shen You being the killer seeking the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword.

The disciples also discussed how Lu Zizheng (referred to as Bai) had killed Man Tianxing while she was controlled, acknowledging he had no choice but was reckless afterward, which led to Ruan Shiqiong expelling him. Lu Huahua mourned Lu Zizheng's departure. They held a funeral for the deceased disciples. Amidst the ceremony, Gu Qingqiao reflected somberly, feeling that perhaps Xiling was where her journey would reach its end.

Episode 21 Recap

Feeling guilty about her past interactions with Lu Zizheng, Gu Qingqiao called out his name repeatedly, searching for him and asking where he had gone. Duan Yu appeared, asking if she was looking for Lu Zizheng and if she truly didn't want to see him. He stated it was "Better a quick death than prolonged pain." He asked about the poison she had previously been affected with, and she responded that her heart was poisoned, and he was the poison.

He tried to explain that he hadn't wanted to kill her at the time, only to save her, but she told him she didn't believe him. Speaking to his subordinate Xing Si, Duan Yu noted that Gu Qingqiao hated him more than he had imagined and insisted he could not allow her and Ruan Shiqiong to spend time together. Later, Gu Qingqiao was preparing sky lanterns, having forgotten to write on them. Ruan Shiqiong offered his help.

Duan Yu arrived, expressing that he and Gu Qingqiao had unfinished business, and addressed Ruan Shiqiong as "Predecessor Ruan." Gu Qingqiao pulled Duan Yu aside for a private conversation. She told him firmly that she did not know the Sacred Blood Sect and had no desire to get involved in the feud between them and the Duan family.

When Duan Yu tried to assure her he wouldn't let her get involved, she interrupted, stating that if he killed her, she naturally couldn't be involved. She declared that once she found the Four Treasures, she would disappear completely, saving him the trouble of killing her. She asked him to let her finish speaking and suggested they leave some good memories between them.

Duan Yu attempted to give her something and ask one question, stating that he had truly loved her. Gu Qingqiao discussed her past with Duan Yu with her Senior Sister, Miss Fu Rong, and their fellow disciple, Lu Huahua. Her Senior Sister and Lu Huahua reacted protectively, calling Duan Yu heartless. Gu Qingqiao clarified that the events were from a long time ago and that she just wanted him to recover quickly and leave the mountain.

Miss Fu Rong agreed to ensure he healed properly. Later, Miss Fu Rong was shown deliberately causing Duan Yu pain while dressing his wound, commenting that as the young master of the Duan family, he should be able to endure it. Xing Si observed this, noting that the medicine seemed to have pain-relieving properties and concluding that the Xiling disciples did not want Duan Yu to stay.

Duan Yu acknowledged that Gu Qingqiao misunderstood him and that their hostility was understandable. Duan Yu met with Predecessor Wang, who examined his injury, confirming it was healing well after about a month. Duan Yu praised Xiling's medical skills and Predecessor Wang's expertise.

He then requested to stay longer to recuperate and take the famed medicinal baths, reasoning that leaving too soon would be discourteous given the historical alliance between the Duan family and the Xiling Sect against the Sacred Blood Sect. Predecessor Wang granted permission for him to stay. Gu Qingqiao confided in Ruan Shiqiong about her identity as the Star of Rebellion, showing him the five-petal mark on her leg as proof.

She explained that three petals had already turned black, and a fourth was starting to turn. She told him someone had informed her that she would die if all the petals turned black, and she had already felt her strength significantly diminish. She stated that the only way for her to save herself was to pull out the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and find the Four Treasures, questioning whether the sword's power alone would be sufficient.

Ruan Shiqiong informed her that his Master had replied and would be returning to Xiling soon, which brought Gu Qingqiao hope that she would soon be able to pull the sword out. The head of the Xiling Sect, Zhang Sifeng, made a dramatic return to the mountain, expressing shock and anger at the changes, particularly the opening of the Penglai Bathhouse. He caused a scene in the bathhouse.

Gu Qingqiao was informed about the commotion and, upon arriving, realized the troublesome old man was her Master, Zhang Sifeng. She attempted to appease him by offering him food after his journey, but he loudly refused. Gu Qingqiao later prepared dishes for him, including braised pork, which he again publicly refused to eat. Ruan Shiqiong quietly informed Gu Qingqiao that Zhang Sifeng was vegetarian.

However, when left alone, Zhang Sifeng eagerly consumed the braised pork and then called out to Gu Qingqiao (addressing her as "Qing") to ask for water. Ruan Shiqiong reported to Zhang Sifeng, confirming that the sword seeker had appeared.

He explained that when Dongfangchun Jiaoqing (Gu Qingqiao) touched him, the Black Wood power within him resonated with her, restoring parts of his true self and allowing him to feel emotions like joy and sorrow again, which he hadn't felt in a long time. He explicitly stated his decision to pull the sword for her. Zhang Sifeng feigned illness, claiming a headache and ringing ears, citing his advanced age (104) and need for rest, dismissing Ruan Shiqiong's words.

Ruan Shiqiong insisted that Gu Qingqiao would die if the sword wasn't pulled, but Zhang Sifeng continued to pretend not to hear. Duan Yu visited Zhang Sifeng, offering gifts as a gesture of gratitude for the medical treatment he received in Xiling. Zhang Sifeng mentioned having a past acquaintance with Duan Yu's father and praised Duan Yu's demeanor. He then probed Duan Yu, asking if he was acquainted with "Dong. . . what's her name?"

Duan Yu candidly admitted they had some past interactions. Zhang Sifeng found his honesty somewhat surprising. After Duan Yu left, Zhang Sifeng examined the gifts, which included exquisite items but were primarily valuable objects like a gold pot. He expressed disappointment that there was nothing interesting among them and concluded there was something "odd" about the connection between Duan Yu and "Dong. . . something Qing."

Zhang Sifeng summoned Gu Qingqiao, initially referring to her as "Pipa" and making disparaging remarks about her name and appearance, stating she didn't deserve the name "Pipa" and calling her "ugly." He demanded to know why she had come to Xiling. When she initially claimed she came to learn medicine, he physically confronted her, threatening to kill her if she didn't tell the truth.

Under pressure, she confessed that she had a strange illness treatable only by the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and that she would die without it, confirming her identity as the Star of Rebellion. She denied conspiring with Duan Yu, stating they met by chance. Asked who else knew about her situation, she revealed Ruan Shiqiong knew and presented Zhang Sifeng with a written agreement from Ruan Shiqiong promising to help her.

Zhang Sifeng took the paper, examined it, and then proceeded to eat it, stating unapologetically that he would not keep his word. When Gu Qingqiao protested, he challenged her to fight him. He then declared that he would not give her the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and demanded that if she wanted to live, she must cook him braised pork every day, mocking her eating habits.

In another conversation with Zhang Sifeng, Ruan Shiqiong noted that Gu Qingqiao resembled Senior Sister Shan Yao, insisting that this resemblance, along with her identity as the sword seeker, was why he felt a connection to her. Zhang Sifeng dismissed the resemblance and firmly refused to allow Ruan Shiqiong to risk his life for Gu Qingqiao's uncertain future.

Ruan Shiqiong was later seen speaking with Predecessor Wang, entrusting Zhang Sifeng to his care if he were "not around," stating he was going on a long journey. Gu Qingqiao spoke to Duan Yu, confirming that Xing Si had told her he had tried to protect her and wasn't trying to kill her. She stated she was no longer angry but reiterated that their destiny as enemies meant they could never be together.

She explained that she had come to accept her fate and the urgent need to find the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and the Four Treasures, acknowledging the difficulty. She told him that sharing this with him had taken considerable courage. Duan Yu attempted to respond or intervene.

Episode 22 Recap

Gu Qingqiao told Duan Yu there were only two paths for their future: either she would gather the Four Treasures and disappear, or fail to find them and die. In either scenario, she would disappear. She urged him to forget her, return to Changqing, and live happily with Ruoyun. Duan Yu refused, stating he would never leave her and wouldn't let her die, giving her the Nine-turn melodious bell as a symbol of his vow.

They shared a tender moment, reflecting on their initial meeting and acknowledging their deep feelings, despite the potential pain it brought. Ruan Shiqiong prepared fish soup for Master Zhang Sifeng. He told his Master that his sense of taste had returned, indicating the curse placed upon him by the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, which rendered him without taste or feeling, was broken.

Ruan Shiqiong attributed this to the power of the sword seeker and suggested that pulling out the sword could strengthen Xiling, which was currently vulnerable. Master Zhang Sifeng announced he planned to celebrate his birthday and asked Gu Qingqiao to go down the mountain to purchase supplies. Xing Si and Duan Yu offered to accompany her. Gu Qingqiao agreed, noting that with wanted posters of her everywhere, more people meant greater safety.

In Qingshui Town, after finishing their shopping, they encountered individuals attempting a scam by feigning injury. Duan Yu quickly pulled Gu Qingqiao into a nearby inn to evade them. Inside, they shared a moment of connection, watching fireworks and resolving the recent tension between them, reaffirming their bond. Back at Xiling, Master Zhang Sifeng was found to be ill and had fallen unconscious.

A disciple mentioned a prescription requiring Ice Grass from the mountain top, which the Master had shown him. Ruan Shiqiong decided to brave the dangerous winter conditions to find it. Gu Qingqiao and several other disciples insisted on accompanying him. Duan Yu provided protective gear for everyone, stating he could assist as he had experience in snowy regions. During their search on the mountain, a severe snowstorm began. Duan Yu slipped and fell down a slope.

Gu Qingqiao held onto him precariously until Ruan Shiqiong managed to pull them both back up. They found shelter from the storm in a mountain cave. Inside the cave, Gu Qingqiao produced hot herbal soup she had brought. They were all damp from the snow. Gu Qingqiao decided to dry her wet shoes by the fire. When Duan Yu watched, Ruan Shiqiong reminded him to be respectful.

Gu Qingqiao called Ruan Shiqiong traditional, and soon he and Duan Yu also took off their shoes to dry, admitting it was much warmer. That night, Ruan Shiqiong and Duan Yu positioned themselves at the cave entrance to shield Gu Qingqiao from the wind so she could rest comfortably. The next morning, Gu Qingqiao discovered both of them had caught colds. As they prepared to leave the cave, Gu Qingqiao slipped onto the ice.

She used her sword to stop her slide and instructed Duan Yu not to approach as the ice wouldn't support their combined weight. As she slowly moved across the ice, she saw the Ice Grass below the surface. She broke through the ice, fell into the cold water, and retrieved the herb before being helped out and taken back to Xiling. Master Zhang Sifeng had been unconscious for two days.

Upon Gu Qingqiao's return with the Ice Grass, a disciple quickly prepared the medicine and gave it to him. Master Zhang Sifeng woke up and commended the disciple for his handling of things while he was ill, stating he felt reassured about Xiling's future with him. Ruan Shiqiong recounted Gu Qingqiao's bravery and near-fatal effort to get the Ice Grass.

Zhang Sifeng revealed that Ruan Shiqiong had transferred his internal energy to save Gu Qingqiao from the cold, drawing the chill into himself, and that only with Duan Yu's timely help in expelling the energy was Ruan Shiqiong saved from death. Ruan Shiqiong acknowledged his debt to Duan Yu but felt his life was ultimately meant to be sacrificed for Gu Qingqiao anyway. Master Zhang Sifeng instructed Ruan Shiqiong to drink the herbal soup.

He explained that Ice Grass is the necessary catalyst to pull out the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and possesses a spiritual nature visible only to the sword seeker. Since Gu Qingqiao found it, it was a sign of fate. He revealed that years ago, he could not save Shan Yao because there was no sword seeker and thus no Ice Grass, making it impossible to use the sword's power.

Ruan Shiqiong realized they had wrongly blamed their Master for Shan Yao's fate. Ruan Shiqiong resolved to pull out the sword as soon as possible, explaining to his Master that Gu Qingqiao had limited time left, and pulling the sword would grant her more time to gather the Four Treasures. Zhang Sifeng asked if Gu Qingqiao knew that Ruan Shiqiong's power came from the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and that pulling it would result in his death.

Ruan Shiqiong said he had not told her. Gu Qingqiao, who had arrived to bring food, overheard this conversation. Gu Qingqiao later visited the tombs of deceased disciples, speaking to them as if they were present. She expressed that she could not allow Ruan Shiqiong to die for her, remarking that she had already died once before. Ruan Shiqiong met Duan Yu at the martial arts arena.

Duan Yu questioned why Ruan Shiqiong had agreed to let Gu Qingqiao pull the sword. Ruan Shiqiong explained his inherent destiny as the guardian of the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, tasked with waiting for the arrival of the sword seeker, who is Gu Qingqiao. He recounted that fifteen years prior, he had sacrificed his heart to the sword to gain immense power to protect the Xiling Sect, becoming the strongest martial artist but losing the ability to feel any emotion.

Episode 23 Recap

Ruan Shiqiong explained to Duan Yu that his heart was sealed within the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. When the sword seeker touched him, his power would resonate, and his lost emotions would gradually return. He stated the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword belonged to the sword seeker and he had to return it. Duan Yu asked why he was revealing this now.

Ruan Shiqiong explained he needed a favor: if Duan Yu promised that the Duan family and Xiling would form a lasting alliance, sharing fortune and hardship, he would draw the sword. Duan Yu was confused. Ruan Shiqiong clarified that the mark of the Star of Rebellion on Gu Qingqiao already had four black petals, meaning she would die soon if not saved.

However, saving her would make her an enemy of the Duan family, and Duan Yu's brother would not spare Xiling. Duan Yu suggested that with Ruan Shiqiong being the greatest martial artist in the world, his brother might not be able to harm Xiling. Ruan Shiqiong countered that his heart was sealed in the sword long ago, and when Gu Qingqiao pulled it out, his life would end.

Gu Qingqiao delegated her duties as Grand Steward to Fu Rong and Lu Huahua. She prepared a blackboard and chalk for her teacher, Wang Tianshan, for future classes. Having settled everything, she planned to secretly leave Xiling, taking a memorable group photo with her. However, Ruan Shiqiong discovered her. He confronted her, asking if she knew pulling the sword would mean his death. Gu Qingqiao initially pretended ignorance, claiming it was just too rushed.

Ruan Shiqiong pressed her, asking why she had given away her position and taken the photo, suggesting she was planning to leave alone. Gu Qingqiao then admitted she had overheard him speaking with Zhang Sifeng and knew his life would end if she pulled the sword. She declared she would never pull the sword and would rather die than build her happiness on the sacrifice of his life, stating there was no room for discussion on the matter.

Duan Yu then intervened, suggesting that if Gu Qingqiao, as the sword seeker and the Star of Rebellion capable of gathering the Four Treasures, pulled the sword, Ruan Shiqiong might not have to die. He explained that the Duan family knew the Star of Rebellion could use the Four Treasures to reverse fate.

Although she might cause his death as the sword seeker, as the Star of Rebellion she could potentially use the Four Treasures' power to break the seal on his heart within the sword and retrieve it for him. Gu Qingqiao found the explanation confusing but, after their persuasion and the assurance that Zhang Sifeng would not have agreed to open the Jiuqing Secret Cave without certainty, she agreed to try, acknowledging the opportunity was worth taking.

Zhang Sifeng opened the Jiuqing Secret Cave, revealing it was hidden beneath a lake. Gu Qingqiao, Duan Yu, and Ruan Shiqiong entered. They encountered the Mythical Stone Formation, created by the Xiling Grand Master from meteorites. They realized the formation had traps and needed a specific method to traverse it. Noticing unexpected light spots on the ground in the underground cave, they deduced these might be a hint, possibly related to the Flowing Water Sword technique carved on the stones.

Ruan Shiqiong went first and confirmed the presence of a trap. They decided to step on the light spots, with Gu Qingqiao walking in the middle protected by Ruan Shiqiong and Duan Yu on either side, navigating the dangerous formation using the principles of the Flowing Water Sword technique. Deeper within the cave, they found the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword guarded by a Sword Spirit, who was the Xiling Grand Master.

Ruan Shiqiong recognized his Grand Master and explained he had passed away and become a Sword Spirit to protect the sword. Knowing they were no match for the Grand Master's skill, Ruan Shiqiong engaged the Sword Spirit in combat, urging Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu to quickly pull the sword. Ruan Shiqiong told Gu Qingqiao not to worry, as his heart was in the sword and the Grand Master wouldn't kill him, promising he would get his heart back.

As the fight continued and time ran out, Ruan Shiqiong instructed Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu to place their hands on the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, close their eyes, and sense its power. Working together, Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu pulled the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword from its pedestal. Upon the sword being pulled, Ruan Shiqiong's body dissolved into light dust, leaving nothing behind.

Gu Qingqiao was devastated, realizing they had lied to her and there was no way to save him. She cried out for him not to die, saying she didn't want the sword and just wanted him back. Ruan Shiqiong's voice echoed, telling her not to blame Duan Yu, as it was his instruction.

He expressed his wish for her to return to her own world, confident and happy, and hinted that he might even be by her side as her team doctor in another life. He asked Duan Yu to take good care of her and ensure she lived safely. Gu Qingqiao insisted Xiling was her home and begged him not to leave.

After Ruan Shiqiong vanished, Zhang Sifeng explained the legend of the Xiling Grand Master, who died by stabbing his heart with a sword and became the Sword Spirit guarding it. Duan Yu speculated that Ruan Shiqiong might have also become a Sword Spirit since his heart was sealed in the sword.

Gu Qingqiao believed he would and asked Duan Yu if he knew how to summon a Sword Spirit, but Duan Yu said he had asked Zhang Sifeng, who didn't know either. Gu Qingqiao was then shown in what appears to be her original world, as Qi Chunjiao, hiding in a school infirmary. A doctor, identified as Dr. Ruan, is present. Her mother arrives, looking for her after a competition. Chunjiao's mother expresses frustration about her daughter's performance and her hiding.

Chunjiao says her mother only cares about her competition results, not her feelings, especially since her father passed away. Her mother reacts angrily. As the mother leaves, she forgets a barbecue sword, which is the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Seeing the sword, Chunjiao is reminded of Ruan Shiqiong. Dr. Ruan encourages her to try to understand her mother's perspective. Chunjiao calls out, expressing her heartbreak and feeling lied to, saying she doesn't want the sword and wants him back.

Returning to Xiling, Gu Qingqiao, still grieving, was told by Duan Yu that he had found the Meridian Gate at the Fire Crane Tribe and would accompany her to retrieve it and find the Four Treasures. Gu Qingqiao declined, stating she didn't want him to end up like Ruan Shiqiong and would find the Four Treasures herself.

Later, Gu Qingqiao attempted to summon the Sword Spirit by cutting her finger and dripping blood on the sword, having read about activating spiritual items with blood. Duan Yu stopped her, concerned for her safety. Noticing Duan Yu was still wearing the rings they had exchanged, Gu Qingqiao acknowledged he remembered her words about them symbolizing connected hearts, though she noted it was from long ago.

She reiterated that regardless of whether they gathered the Four Treasures, they were fated to be in different worlds, like a fish and a bird, with no possibility of being together. They agreed that the best way to say goodbye when the time came was with a smile, unlike their past farewell in Changqing. Meanwhile, Shaoyi waited at a rest stop, hoping Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao would pass through on their way to the Fire Crane Tribe.

He was anxious to see Wu and reflected that he now understood the difficulty of Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao's situation through his own feelings. He was conflicted, wanting them to return but also feeling for their plight. At the Fire Crane Tribe, a masked stranger arrived, claiming to be a friend of Duan Yu. The tribe members welcomed him warmly because Duan Yu had bravely helped them eliminate the threat from the Moon Wolf Tribe.

The stranger expressed a desire to see their sacred object, particularly mentioning it contained a portrait resembling Duan Yu's fiancée, who looked exactly like their Priestess in the sacred object. The Fire Crane Tribe Priestess explained the sacred object was a tribal treasure not easily shown, but confirmed Duan Yu had seen it due to his heroic actions. The stranger then revealed his true intention, declaring he would take their sacred object, his demeanor turning hostile.

Episode 24 Recap

A mysterious figure, referred to as the Lord Witch Doctor, massacred the Fire Crane Tribe. Although one person's life was initially spared as promised to someone else, the Lord Witch Doctor ultimately boasted of their power and stated that Duan Yu would never defeat them in this life or any other.

When Shaoyi arrived at the Fire Crane Tribe, having dressed up intending to propose to Xiaowu and bring her back to Changqing, he discovered the horrific scene and Xiaowu dead among the casualties. Shaoyi was devastated and expressed his sorrow for arriving too late. Duan Yu suspected the Sacred Blood Sect was responsible, having followed them to steal the Meridian Gate.

Shaoyi, enraged, declared the Duan family and the Sacred Blood Sect were sworn enemies and vowed revenge for Xiaowu, but Duan Yu stopped him, explaining their disadvantage and that rushing in would be suicidal. Shaoyi spoke of love and revenge, citing Xiaowu's words about lovers and enemies and his own identity as her "slave." Duan Yu apologized, acknowledging his potential role in the tragedy, and ordered strict vigilance against the Sacred Blood Sect.

Discussing the Four Treasures, Duan Yu noted they held two, the Sacred Blood Sect had taken the Meridian Gate, and asked Gu Qingqiao if she had a clue about the fourth. Gu Qingqiao wasn't sure but suggested Master Kongkong at Shangqing Temple might know, as he was the one who had informed her she was the Star of Rebellion and instructed her to gather the Four Treasures. They decided to split up to return to Changqing.

In Changqing, Duan Yu's elder brother visited Magistrate Du to propose marriage between Duan Yu and Ruoyun. He presented his mother's Dragon and Phoenix Pendants, explaining the Phoenix Pendant was meant for Duan Yu's wife and offering it as a token. Magistrate Du expressed concern about Duan Yu's feelings for Gu Qingqiao but agreed to the union, recognizing the strategic importance of the alliance between the Duan and Du families for stability in Changqing and deterring external threats.

Duan Yu's brother emphasized the importance of the marriage as decided by parents and matchmakers, highlighting the Duan family's traditions. Gu Qingqiao, disguised as a male Wuyi Guard, entered Changqing. Duan Yu met her, and Shaoyi helped settle her, though not without teasing Duan Yu about the complicated relationships and warning him to prioritize important matters over personal affections, likening him to a scumbag. Duan Yu acknowledged the arranged marriage was proceeding.

Planning to visit Shangqing Temple the next day, Gu Qingqiao considered enhancing her male disguise. Duan Yu advised against anything too conspicuous, focusing on finding Master Kongkong to learn about the Sword Spirit, hoping he knew how to awaken it. At Shangqing Temple, they inquired about Master Kongkong, but the priest stated no monk by that name had ever resided there, even after checking the guest registry. Gu Qingqiao insisted she had met him there.

She then asked the priest about the Sword Spirit. The priest had heard of the concept of a spirit in a sword needing to be awakened and related a story of a wooden fish gaining spiritual energy through chanting, suggesting a similar principle might apply but offering no specific method for swords.

Before leaving, Gu Qingqiao asked the priest to relay a message if he ever saw Master Kongkong: "The Chosen Girl's life is at stake, please tell us what to do." The priest replied cryptically about fate being a circle with the end being the beginning and consequences for causes. Gu Qingqiao was disappointed but found a sense of relief and expressed her determination to fight against fate, turning old sayings into personal mottoes about persevering despite hardship.

Meanwhile, Ruoyun discussed the proposed marriage with her maid, feeling conflicted and unhappy despite it being her long-held wish. She knew Duan Yu did not love her and that his heart belonged to Gu Qingqiao. She lamented Gu Qingqiao's tragic circumstances but felt the timing of the proposal would make Duan Yu resent her.

The maid reassured her that Gu Qingqiao, being a fugitive, was unlikely to return, and Ruoyun, with the blessing of parents and matchmakers, was the rightful choice. Ruoyun, however, still felt unhappy, beginning to understand what Gu Qingqiao meant about listening to one's inner voice. Shaoyi visited Ruoyun and warned her that the marriage was a political alliance between their families, making both her and Duan Yu sacrifices.

Ruoyun accepted this, seeing it as beneficial for both families, unlike Gu Qingqiao who disregarded such arrangements. Gu Qingqiao, wanting to see her father, visited the Qingfeng Restaurant. She found it had been renamed and was now owned by Manager Yang. She was told the restaurant had been sold cheaply to Manager Yang, who was supported by Magistrate Du, after her troubles began. While Duan Yu couldn't openly intervene, he had privately ensured Gu Xingwu was looked after.

Seeing her father selling pancakes to make a living, Gu Qingqiao was overcome with guilt for the ruin she felt she had brought upon her family. She desperately asked Xing Si to kill her, believing her death would make everything right again and free everyone involved, including Duan Yu and Ruoyun. Xing Si reacted with shock and dark humor, dismissing the idea of murder and suicide as a solution, criticizing her sudden embrace of bleakness.

Gu Qingqiao dismissed her past beliefs about protection as worthless. Duan Yu asked Ruoyun to meet to discuss their marriage. Ruoyun stated she didn't want to hear about parental decisions, knowing he had another engagement. Duan Yu confirmed his engagement but mentioned his brother claimed it was no longer valid. He urged Ruoyun to understand his true feelings. Ruoyun confronted him, asking if he intended to reject the marriage and if Gu Qingqiao had returned and influenced him.

Duan Yu proposed using his reputation for being a "jinx" to break the engagement, protecting Ruoyun's name. Ruoyun became angry, accusing him of selfishness and prioritizing personal desires over the interests of their families, which would cause strife between the Duan and Du families and between him and his brother. She pressed him about Gu Qingqiao's return. Duan Yu maintained that Gu Qingqiao was innocent and the matter was between them.

Ruoyun declared that if Gu Qingqiao had any conscience, she wouldn't return to Changqing to cause trouble and wouldn't appear there again. She claimed to have seen Gu Qingqiao with Xing Si. Duan Yu warned Ruoyun not to harm Gu Qingqiao. Xing Si and Shaoyi discovered Gu Qingqiao was missing after she insisted on returning alone. Worried, they decided to search for her themselves rather than alarming Duan Yu. Separately, Gu Qingqiao found herself captured.

She questioned her captors, demanding to know who they were. Suddenly, Ruoyun appeared. Gu Qingqiao recognized Ruoyun and accused her of kidnapping her. Ruoyun denied it, suggesting the people following Gu Qingqiao earlier might have been sheriff's officers, and stated she had simply wanted to speak with her. Gu Qingqiao explained she didn't run because she had nowhere to go and had deliberately left Xing Si to protect him. Ruoyun wanted to discuss the marriage.

Gu Qingqiao told Ruoyun not to worry about competing with her, as she and Duan Yu would have a long time together, while she herself would eventually leave. She advised Ruoyun to marry someone who truly loved her, like Xing Si, rather than marrying Duan Yu if he didn't love her, which would lead to a miserable life, possibly even involving concubines. Ruoyun admitted she loved Duan Yu but wasn't willing to give up.

Gu Qingqiao stressed that marrying without love would lead to suffering. When Ruoyun asked if Gu Qingqiao would accept being a concubine, Gu Qingqiao dismissed the idea, stating she wasn't qualified for any such position, implying her own precarious status. She reiterated her decision not to compete but acknowledged she couldn't control Duan Yu's actions. As they spoke, more people arrived and confronted them. Xing Si and Shaoyi arrived, fought the guards, and successfully rescued both Gu Qingqiao and Ruoyun.

Gu Xingwu waited all night at the former Qingfeng Restaurant, hoping Gu Qingqiao would visit him in the dark. His attendant, Dongxi, tried to persuade him that he might have mistaken someone else or that she wouldn't return given the danger, urging him to rest. Gu Xingwu insisted on going to the south of the city where he set up his pancake stall, confident he would recognize Gu Qingqiao if she came looking for him.

Duan Yu learned Gu Xingwu was selling pancakes there and took Gu Qingqiao, accompanied by Xing Si, to see him. An ambush had been set at the stall, clearly intended to draw out Gu Qingqiao. Officials began harassing and assaulting Gu Xingwu. Duan Yu prevented Gu Qingqiao from rushing forward but intervened himself, fighting off the attackers who were bullying her father. Despite Duan Yu's efforts, the officials managed to apprehend Gu Qingqiao. Gu Qingqiao was taken to prison.

Duan Yu attempted to visit but was told by the warden that Magistrate Du had personally decreed Gu Qingqiao's crime a capital offense, forbidding any leniency or visitation. Duan Yu suspected a deliberate plot by Magistrate Du, possibly in agreement with his brother, to ensure Gu Qingqiao's death. Shaoyi considered trying to force a public retrial by beating the drum to seek justice, but Duan Yu worried this could backfire, solidifying the death sentence rather than forcing a fair hearing.

Magistrate Du arrived at the prison to question Gu Qingqiao personally. After dismissing the guards, he immediately demanded to know the location of the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, questioning how she knew about it. Gu Qingqiao, recognizing his high rank, acknowledged he must have an important reason for visiting. Magistrate Du offered her freedom if she surrendered the sword. Gu Qingqiao refused, stating the sword was hidden securely and would remain inaccessible if she died.

Magistrate Du then threatened to harm Gu Xingwu if she did not comply, which Gu Qingqiao denounced as despicable. She demanded to know Magistrate Du's true identity and his reason for wanting the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, but Magistrate Du warned her his patience was limited.

Episode 25 Recap

Magistrate Du was under orders from a mysterious figure. He was instructed to obtain the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword from Gu Qingqiao. If he failed to get the sword, he was to bring Gu Qingqiao back alive. This order meant that, contrary to Magistrate Du's initial intentions, he now had to ensure Gu Qingqiao survived. Outside the court, Shao Yi struck the drum of grievance, demanding that Magistrate Du convene court and try Gu Qingqiao's case.

Initially, Magistrate Du intended to handle the matter privately, but he was forced by the gathering crowd's pressure to open the court. Shao Yi stated that his action was intended to solidify the case against Gu Qingqiao, leaving no room for Duan Yu to defend her. Magistrate Du, under pressure, agreed to a public trial. Shao Yi then demanded that Gu Qingqiao be brought out for a face-to-face confrontation, a demand Magistrate Du conceded to.

During the trial, Shao Yi dramatically changed his testimony. He claimed that he had not been kidnapped by Gu Qingqiao, but rather had been kidnapped "with" her by Mantra Sect followers. He asserted that Gu Qingqiao had saved him from the Mantra followers and was his savior. Magistrate Du, suspicious of this sudden shift, produced a previous signed confession from Shao Yi, reminding him that Gu Qingqiao's initial conviction was based on that document.

He warned Shao Yi that changing his testimony now would mean the previous confession was false, a crime punishable by exile. Shao Yi claimed he had signed the first confession while he was unconscious or delirious, rendering it invalid. Duan Yu then stepped forward, supporting Shao Yi's claim and arguing that according to the law, testimony given while unconscious should be disregarded, requiring a retrial of the case.

Magistrate Du maintained that Gu Qingqiao's case had been decided based on clear witness accounts and evidence, and could only be overturned if a new witness appeared to prove she was not the kidnapper. Just then, a masked figure arrived, claiming to be the witness they needed. The person announced they were from the Divine Palace and offered a token as proof. Removing the mask, the figure revealed himself to be Lu Zizheng.

He explained he was a Divine Palace Priest sent undercover into the Mantra Sect, where he had posed as the Right Guardian to witness a prophecy. He testified that he had personally seen Gu Qingqiao and Duan Shao Yi abducted together by Mantra followers. With this testimony from a Divine Palace Priest, Gu Qingqiao was finally acquitted. Gu Qingqiao expressed her gratitude to Lu Zizheng for saving her once again.

Duan Yu questioned Lu Zizheng's identity as a Priest and asked why, if he knew Gu Qingqiao was innocent, he hadn't testified earlier. Lu Zizheng explained that Gu Qingqiao was destined to face this hardship, as it was necessary for her to go to Xiling. He confirmed that, as a Divine Palace Priest who knows all things, he was aware of her identity. Lu Zizheng then stated his intention to stay at the Gu residence.

Duan Yu offered him lodging at the Duan manor, citing the inconvenience of a man staying at Gu Qingqiao's home. However, Lu Zizheng insisted, saying he had stayed there before, and Gu Xingwu, expressing gratitude for Lu Zizheng saving his daughter, welcomed him to stay. Gu Qingqiao saw Duan Yu out, telling him she needed to talk privately with Lu Zizheng.

She updated Lu Zizheng on the events that transpired after he left Westling and apologized for having misunderstood him regarding Man Tianxing. Acknowledging his status as a Priest, she asked if he could use his abilities to locate the fourth Treasure. However, Lu Zizheng admitted he did not know where it was. Lu Zizheng then inquired about the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Gu Qingqiao told him she had entrusted it to Duan Yu for safekeeping.

He asked if she would be willing to leave with him if they successfully gathered all four Treasures. Gu Qingqiao replied that she was a dying person and did not wish to burden him. She informed Lu Zizheng that the Xiling Head had suggested Ruan Shiqiong might become a Sword Spirit within the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and asked if he knew how to awaken a Sword Spirit. Lu Zizheng believed he might have a way.

Gu Qingqiao then offered to take him to find Duan Yu to retrieve the sword. Meanwhile, Ruo Yun was deeply upset by Duan Yu's actions – his decision to help Gu Qingqiao get acquitted and his subsequent refusal to marry her. She felt like the subject of mockery in Changqing. Her father, Magistrate Du, also disregarded her feelings and insisted on the marriage. Distraught, she wandered the streets late at night where she was found by Xing Si.

With nowhere else to go, Xing Si reluctantly took her back to his simple dwelling for the night. Back with Gu Qingqiao, Lu Zizheng proposed using her blood to awaken the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, explaining that as a "Star of Rebellion," her blood might have the power to control the Four Treasures and serve as a necessary conduit. Gu Qingqiao, willing to try anything for her martial uncle, cut her finger and dripped blood onto the sword.

The sword suddenly reacted, flying into the air. Lu Zizheng used his power to suppress the sword's energy, causing it to fall back down, now unresponsive. Lu Zizheng then declared that the Sword Spirit did not exist and speculated that perhaps the Xiling Head had misled them to comfort Gu Qingqiao.

Duan Yu, however, countered that the Head had indeed mentioned the possibility of Ruan Shiqiong becoming a Sword Spirit, similar to the Westling founder, but had also stated it might not happen. He added that he, too, was a Xiling disciple and hoped Ruan Shiqiong was still alive. Saddened by the apparent confirmation that Ruan Shiqiong was truly gone and there was no Sword Spirit, Gu Qingqiao was comforted by Duan Yu. He invited her to join him in releasing sky lanterns, a Westling tradition for remembering the deceased, suggesting she could write her thoughts for Ruan Shiqiong on the lanterns.

Episode 26 Recap

Gu Qingqiao felt the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword suddenly become very cold. She recalled that when she was alone in her room previously, the sword had become hot, leading her to wonder if Lu Zizheng was mistaken and Ruan Shiqiong was the sword spirit.

Duan Yu told her that as the Star of Rebellion, she should rely on her own senses to determine if a sword spirit existed, as only she could sense and control the power of the Four Treasures. As he spoke, the sword became hot again. Gu Qingqiao confirmed that Ruan Shiqiong's sword spirit truly existed.

She noted that the sword hadn't reacted at all when they left Xiling, but now it could convey meaning through temperature, indicating Master Ruan's consciousness might be slowly awakening. She wondered if the sword might become sentient. Duan Yu suggested this was likely another form of protection from Master Ruan. Gu Qingqiao accepted her role as the master of the Four Treasures and vowed to protect the sword spirit.

Magistrate Du's men were searching the entire city for his daughter, Du Ruoyun, but still couldn't find her. He was frustrated by their lack of progress and called them useless. His men explained that the search was slow because they couldn't announce her disappearance publicly, as doing so would ruin Du Ruoyun's reputation. Magistrate Du refused to issue a notice for that very reason and ordered them to continue searching secretly.

Meanwhile, Magistrate Du met with a figure known as Lord Shen Guan, who was revealed to be Lu Zizheng. Magistrate Du apologized for his daughter's impulsive actions. Lu Zizheng reassured him, stating it was fated and she would eventually return. He promised that Du Ruoyun would serve the Sacred Blood Sect and bring it glory, and he would grant her the position of Priestess when the sect was restored. Du Ruoyun was secretly staying in Xing Si's room.

Xing Si repeatedly urged her to go home, finding the situation inappropriate and worrying about her reputation if word got out. Du Ruoyun, however, refused. She felt she had lost all reputation after being rejected and having her engagement broken off by Duan Yu and didn't care about further damage. She didn't want to face her father or the town's gossip and blamed "them" for her predicament, demanding responsibility.

She felt she no longer seemed like a magistrate's daughter and unfavorably compared herself to Gu Qingqiao. Xing Si eventually allowed her to stay, but asked her not to open the door. He ended up sleeping by the door himself while she looked through his books. She commented that it was unfortunate he was only a guard. Gu Qingqiao went to find Duan Yu.

He told her that the Noble Families Congress was prepared and Lu Zizheng intended for the Sacred Blood Sect's return to be known to everyone. He mentioned that Du Ruoyun was still missing and noted Xing Si seemed unwell from lack of sleep due to the search. Duan Yu ordered the Wuyi Guards to also search for Du Ruoyun discreetly. Gu Qingqiao then asked about Master Kongkong.

Duan Yu said he had searched local temples without finding anyone named Kongkong and needed a portrait. Gu Qingqiao tried drawing but produced a picture no one could recognize. Duan Yu suggested she describe him while he drew. She described Master Kongkong as hairless with a long beard, big eyes, a short chin, and many wrinkles. Duan Yu's drawing was accurate. Gu Qingqiao praised him, calling him perfect for his skills, background, and looks, like a "Prince Charming".

Duan Yu called her a "deadly cute girl". Their conversation turned serious as they discussed their uncertain future. Duan Yu expressed his wish for her to live well, even if he were to die, which upset her as she didn't want to lose him. He said he felt the same. Shao Yi became increasingly worried about Du Ruoyun after three days of her disappearance.

He frantically told Xing Si he was going to search for her, even if he had to dig everywhere. Xing Si stopped him and revealed that Du Ruoyun was staying with him. Shao Yi confronted Du Ruoyun, calling her audacious. Du Ruoyun accused Xing Si of betraying her. Xing Si defended himself, saying Shao Yi was only worried about her.

Du Ruoyun resigned herself to being found but refused to go home, stating she was unable to marry and didn't want to face judgment. Shao Yi pointed out staying there would only worsen her reputation. She argued that if they kept it secret, no one would know, which Shao Yi called self-deception. He suggested she was acting irrationally due to anger. Du Ruoyun compared herself negatively to Gu Qingqiao, whom she called a joke but admitted was happy.

Shao Yi confirmed Gu Qingqiao's happiness, mentioning her fulfilling life in Xiling. Du Ruoyun lamented that she wasn't like Gu Qingqiao and couldn't adapt. She begged Shao Yi to leave her alone if he was her friend, wanting just a few more days of freedom from her identity as the magistrate's daughter. Shao Yi relented and asked Xing Si to house her for a few more days, promising to cover for his uncle, Magistrate Du.

Du Ruoyun expressed gratitude to Shao Yi and then included Xing Si. The Noble Families Congress was convened by Duan Yan. He announced that the Sacred Blood Sect was about to return. He recounted how his father had defeated their leader 15 years prior using the Qilin Bow after the sect had killed many people practicing their Blood Technique.

Duan Yan revealed that his father, Duan Sheng, had acquired the Heavenly Pearl, one of the Four Treasures, and to protect its location, he had split a map into four pieces, entrusting one to each of the four noble families present. Duan Yan warned them that the Sacred Blood Sect would undoubtedly seek these maps. Xu Xin of the Xu family declared his family's unwillingness to be involved further and offered to hand over their treasure map.

Despite Duan Yan and Principal Cheng urging him to reconsider, Xu Xin was resolute. Duan Yan then questioned if Xu Xin had betrayed them. Xu Xin confirmed he had joined the Sacred Blood Sect and attacked Duan Yan, stating he had trapped the attendees and demanded the other maps under threat of death. The other family masters ordered their guards to protect them, and a fight ensued.

After the battle, Duan Yan observed that Xu Xin, like the other defeated Sacred Blood Sect members, had committed suicide. He noted their fanatical determination and realized that if he could be ambushed, Great Master Zhang and Principal Cheng were likely also targets. Concerned for Principal Cheng's frail health, Duan Yan decided to change his route and travel to Jizhou to ensure his safety.

Meanwhile, Lu Zizheng received news that Duan Yan had been ambushed and was diverting to Jizhou to meet Principal Cheng, confirming it was part of his plan to catch them all at once. However, Lu Zizheng decided not to go to Jizhou himself, instead choosing to go to Xiling to settle something personally. He sent a message stating his intention to get the Heavenly Pearl first to open the gate of time and space, setting a challenge for Gu Qingqiao.

Gu Qingqiao found Du Ruoyun hiding in Xing Si's room while looking for Shao Yi. She initially suspected Xing Si was hiding a lover and teased him about it before discovering it was Du Ruoyun. Gu Qingqiao was surprised, but Du Ruoyun, accepting she was found, blamed Gu Qingqiao for the broken engagement and her subsequent humiliation, claiming Gu Qingqiao was responsible for everything. Gu Qingqiao rejected the blame, arguing the forced marriage was bound to fail regardless.

They exchanged insults and began to fight. Xing Si intervened, stopping them by sealing their acupuncture points. He apologized for restraining them and asked Gu Qingqiao to persuade Du Ruoyun. Gu Qingqiao refused, saying they couldn't reason together. Xing Si released Gu Qingqiao's points. Du Ruoyun then turned her anger on Xing Si, blaming him.

Gu Qingqiao tried to make her see that the forced marriage wasn't anyone's fault and that Xing Si had taken a significant risk by hiding her. Du Ruoyun remained defiant and ungrateful, insisting she would handle her own affairs. Frustrated, Gu Qingqiao left, telling Xing Si to handle her. Later, Gu Qingqiao spoke with her father, Mr. Gu. He noted she seemed upset and asked if she had been to the Duan Residence.

He reminded her about the broken engagement and advised her to stop interacting with Duan Yu, believing they were fundamentally incompatible. He admitted he was wrong to think marrying her to Duan Yu would bring her happiness and only wished for her to have a normal, peaceful life, free from complications. Gu Qingqiao understood his concern but explained she couldn't fully comply as she needed to help Duan Yu find the Four Treasures.

She assured her father there was no romantic possibility between them. Later that night, Xing Si brought Du Ruoyun a comb, only to find she had left a note. In the note, she stated she had returned home, apologized for not considering his difficulties while staying with him, and expressed her remorse. Du Ruoyun returned home and was grounded by Magistrate Du for ten days and ordered to copy family rules one hundred times for her disappearance.

She waited until he calmed down before stating she did not want to marry Duan Yu. Magistrate Du was furious, calling her actions ridiculous, especially after Duan Yu had already broken the engagement once and now she was refusing to marry. Du Ruoyun explained she had thought carefully and knew Duan Yu never liked her, so she would not be happy in the marriage. She questioned why she should marry someone if they wouldn't be happy together.

Her father scolded her for using such reasons like a commoner. Du Ruoyun adamantly refused, declaring she would not marry Duan Yu even if he beat her to death. Magistrate Du, accepting her resolve, sent a letter to the Duan family officially breaking off the engagement and severing all ties between the two families. Duan Yu's subordinate expressed concern about the implications for Lord Duan and mentioned Du Ruoyun's deep feelings for Duan Yu.

Duan Yu accepted the decision, stating he had been the one who inadvertently caused trouble for her. He declined his subordinate's offer to speak to her, believing it would only cause her more pain. Duan Yu privately reflected that he knew a relationship with Gu Qingqiao was impossible and wished to help her find the Four Treasures and return to her world as a way to repay her trust and assistance.

He knew finding the Four Treasures was her top priority. Lu Zizheng approached the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and used a Soul-stealing Nail to temporarily seal its spiritual power, stating this would allow him to leave safely. He left a note for Gu Qingqiao saying he had urgent business and left first, adding narcissistically not to miss him. Sometime later, Shao Yi told Gu Qingqiao he wanted to enroll in Jizhou Academy to study.

He explained he hadn't been sleeping well and kept dreaming of someone named Xiao Wu, and needed a change of scenery. Gu Qingqiao agreed, feeling he needed a peaceful environment after recent events. Gu Qingqiao suggested to Shao Yi, Du Ruoyun, and Xing Si that the last of the Four Treasures might be with Shao Yi.

She reasoned that the previous treasures were found by or given to people she knew from her original world (Lu Zizheng gave her the Nine-turn Melodious Bell, Master Ruan gave her the sword, and Duan Yu found one in the Fire Crane Tribe), and only Shao Yi, Du Ruoyun, and Xing Si among their current group, besides Master Ruan, were people she knew from her modern life.

Shao Yi was surprised but agreed to look through his extensive collection of unusual items. They began moving and searching through many boxes. Du Ruoyun commented on the sheer volume of his possessions. Gu Qingqiao, thinking the Heavenly Pearl might be round, spotted a round object. Du Ruoyun quickly identified it as a "football" made by Xing Si, insisting it couldn't be the Heavenly Pearl and pushing it away. Gu Qingqiao was confused. Shao Yi didn't recall buying the item.

Frustrated that they couldn't find the Pearl, Gu Qingqiao wondered aloud why Master Ruan (the sword) had been so quiet lately. Meanwhile, back at the Xiling Sect, disciples were on high alert as ordered by Great Master Zhang Sifeng upon his return. Lu Zizheng arrived and was recognized as "Bai" by a disciple. Zhang Sifeng was happy and surprised to see him, also calling him "Bai". Lu Zizheng bowed, acknowledging his past transgressions.

Zhang Sifeng said it wasn't entirely his fault as he had been framed. They went inside. Zhang Sifeng asked about his relationship with Gu Qingqiao, and Lu Zizheng said she was his friend. Zhang Sifeng then asked his real name, Lu Zizheng. Zhang Sifeng recalled expelling him from the sect, seemingly related to Ruan Shiqiong's disappearance, and questioned why he returned if he hated Xiling.

Lu Zizheng admitted he did hold resentment but pointed out that even an honest person like Zhang Sifeng could feel a grudge. Lu Zizheng stated the purpose of his return was to report something: he had seen Master Ruan's sword spirit. This surprised Zhang Sifeng and confused the disciples who believed Master Ruan was merely traveling. Zhang Sifeng silenced the disciples, and Lu Zizheng corrected himself, saying he had misspoke. Zhang Sifeng then dismissed the disciples.

Episode 27 Recap

Days earlier, at the Xiling Sect, Great Master Zhang spoke with his disciple, Lu Zizheng, about the Xu family's defection to the Sacred Blood Sect. He shared his sorrow, explaining that several of his fellow masters had died at the hands of the Sacred Blood Sect, making the two sects mortal enemies. He admitted this history kept him on high alert.

Lu Zizheng countered, saying he had heard different accounts – that the Sacred Blood Sect had not harmed civilians before the Duan family rallied the martial world against them, and that the claim of using commoners for Bloodcraft was a fabrication. He questioned why his master was so certain the Sacred Blood Sect was evil.

Great Master Zhang warned him that while Bloodcraft initially boosts power rapidly, it causes severe self-damage over time, requiring the practitioner to use the blood of others. He stated harming civilians for cultivation was an undeniable fact and strictly cautioned Lu Zizheng never to repeat what he had said to a third person, as it could bring trouble. Lu Zizheng acknowledged the warning, recognizing his master's care for him as his most promising disciple.

A welcome banquet was held at Xiling for Lu Zizheng's return. However, the celebration turned deadly as the disciples were poisoned. As his fellow disciples died around him, Lu Zizheng stood unharmed. Great Master Zhang, horrified, pleaded for the antidote, reminding Lu Zizheng they were his fellow disciples. Lu Zizheng coldly replied he had no fellow disciples, no family, no friends, and would live and die alone.

Great Master Zhang realized Lu Zizheng was using Bloodcraft and was from the Sacred Blood Sect. Lu Zizheng confirmed this, demanding the treasure map from Great Master Zhang. Zhang Sifeng refused, but Lu Zizheng revealed he wasn't alone, implying other Sacred Blood Sect members were present. Wang Tianshan stepped forward, offering himself in place of the others, reminding Lu Zizheng they had the greatest martial artist, Ruan Siqiong, who would avenge them.

Lu Zizheng chillingly revealed Ruan Siqiong was dead, having sacrificed himself for Gu Qingqiao and the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. He explained Ruan Siqiong's status as the world's greatest fighter came from giving his heart to the sword, and he had now pierced that sword with a Soul-stealing Nail, trapping Ruan Siqiong's soul forever.

Lu Zizheng offered Great Master Zhang a chance to survive by submitting to the Sacred Blood Sect, acknowledging Zhang Sifeng had been the only one in Xiling who treated him well. Great Master Zhang refused, citing Xiling's code of unity and mutual support, regretting he couldn't protect his disciples. Meanwhile, other Sacred Blood Sect members confronted Zhang Sifeng. Lu Zizheng used Wang Tianshan to pressure Zhang Sifeng for the map.

Wang Tianshan, heartbroken by his master's betrayal and guilt-ridden over the fate of Xiling, fatally wounded himself with a sword. Zhang Sifeng mourned his disciple, feeling immense disgrace that a Sacred Blood Sect member had come from Xiling. Lu Zizheng declared he was born into the Sacred Blood Sect and joined Xiling solely for the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, never intending to be a true disciple.

He revealed himself to be the sole survivor of the Sacred Blood Sect, whose entire clan was wiped out years ago by the Duan family and three great families. He gave Zhang Sifeng one last chance to trade the map for Wang Tianshan's life, but it was too late for Wang Tianshan. Zhang Sifeng, defiant, refused to let the Sacred Blood Sect succeed, telling Lu Zizheng he was too late, the map was gone. Zhang Sifeng then also perished.

Lu Zizheng, upon learning the map wasn't found, ordered Xiling burned, vowing that if he couldn't have the map, no one else would. Realizing the map must have been given to the last remaining Xiling disciple, Gu Qingqiao, he ordered his followers to proceed immediately to Jizhou Academy. At Jizhou Academy, Shaoyi had gone missing. Duan Yu planned to go to Jizhou to search for him.

Gu Qingqiao also wanted to go, but her father, Gu Xingwu, refused to allow it, feeling she and Duan Yu were no longer a good match and should not be involved. He instructed Da to prevent Gu Qingqiao from leaving her study. Duan Yu explained to Gu Xingwu that the trip to Jizhou was partly a Duan family matter, and he didn't want Gu Qingqiao to risk danger, but also declared his lifelong commitment to her.

Gu Xingwu later spoke with a despondent Gu Qingqiao, acknowledging her continued feelings for Duan Yu. Gu Qingqiao expressed her desire for things to end quickly, explaining she didn't want anyone else to be hurt because of her, implying Shaoyi's disappearance might be related to her, and therefore she felt responsible for finding him.

As Duan Yu prepared to depart for Jizhou, he didn't expect Gu Qingqiao to join him, but she arrived just as they were leaving, bringing fresh buns from her father. Upon reaching Jizhou Academy, they investigated Shaoyi's disappearance. They discovered he hadn't taken his clothes or money, suggesting a hurried departure. In Jizhou, he had bought a fighting chicken and won a significant amount of money at a casino.

He used the winnings to buy numerous antiques, specifically those with "pearl" in their names, such as luminous pearls, golden pearls, and jade pearls. Duan Yu speculated this was part of Shaoyi's effort to help Gu Qingqiao find the Heavenly Pearl. He found it suspicious that Shaoyi disappeared shortly after they suspected the Heavenly Pearl might be with him, suggesting a connection to the Sacred Blood Sect. The valuable luminous pearl Shaoyi bought was also strangely missing from his room.

Believing the casino might be involved due to Shaoyi winning a large sum, Duan Yu and his guard, Xing Si, went there. However, the casino owner claimed he didn't know Shaoyi's whereabouts either and had wanted to recover his losses, but Shaoyi was too difficult to handle. The owner showed them injuries he claimed were caused by Shaoyi's flying darts. Convinced the casino owner was not withholding information, Duan Yu ordered Xing Si to keep an eye on him.

They concluded that Shaoyi's focus on buying "pearl" items was connected to the Heavenly Pearl. Meanwhile, Lu Zizheng received reports from his followers. He learned that Cheng Mufei, the principal of Jizhou Academy, had a wife suffering from tuberculosis whom he cared for deeply. He also learned that Duan Yu and the "Star of Rebellion" (Gu Qingqiao) had arrived at Jizhou Academy due to Duan Shaoyi's disappearance.

When a subordinate asked if they should go after the treasure map Gu Qingqiao might have, Lu Zizheng dismissed the suggestion. Gu Qingqiao later saw Mr. Guo, one of the academy's teachers, being pressured by the casino owner, presumably over debts. As she was about to leave, she encountered Lu Zizheng. He asked if Zhang Sifeng had given her anything before she left Xiling.

Gu Qingqiao replied that Ruan Siqiong had died because of her, so Zhang Sifeng would likely want to harm her, not give her anything. When Gu Qingqiao asked if he could use his abilities to find Shaoyi, Lu Zizheng told her to close her eyes, but then he left without helping her. The search continued at the academy. Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao spoke with students who knew Shaoyi.

They learned Shaoyi was skilled in many things and that he had purchased a fighting chicken and gone to the casino three days prior, saying he had an appointment. They also confirmed Shaoyi's collection of items with "pearl" in their names. They discovered the luminous pearl was missing. Since Shaoyi hadn't taken any money, they considered the possibility he might have sold the pearl.

The next morning, they received alarming news: a severed hand had been found near the academy, and officials thought it might belong to Shaoyi. They were taken to identify it. Duan Yu examined the hand and, remembering Shaoyi practiced archery and would have calluses on his right index and middle fingers, confirmed that the hand did not belong to Shaoyi. This brought temporary relief, but shortly after, news arrived that another body part, a leg, had been found.

The cruelty of the killer was apparent. Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao met with Principal Cheng and Mr. Guo. Principal Cheng mentioned Shaoyi had not returned to Changqing and reiterated his offer to help, stating he would write to the Jizhou magistrate to assist in the search and keep an eye out due to the dismemberment case.

They discussed Shaoyi's activities again, including the missing luminous pearl, but students who knew Shaoyi said they hadn't noticed it, as everyone had been busy returning to the academy. The discussion with Mr. Guo revealed his difficult temper; Principal Cheng mentioned Mr. Guo had been angry earlier when he defended a student against his complaint. Later, Mr. Guo was seen arguing heatedly with the casino owner at the academy gates.

Episode 28 Recap

Gu Qingqiao told Duan Yu that she had seen the casino owner visiting Mr. Guo to collect debts. Duan Yu added that Mr. Guo often had conflicts with Shaoyi and wondered if he might be involved in Shaoyi's disappearance, although he noted Mr. Guo was a scholar with no martial arts skills. Agreeing that Mr. Guo and the casino owner were the most suspicious figures, they decided to return to the casino for further investigation.

At the casino, the manager confirmed that Mr. Guo was a regular customer who owed him a large sum of money and that he had gone to the academy earlier that day to collect. When asked if Mr. Guo and Shaoyi had any interaction at the casino, the manager doubted it, citing Mr. Guo's desire to avoid being seen there.

Duan Yu then noticed a luminous pearl; the manager explained it was collateral Mr. Guo had used for his debts, valuing it at three thousand taels. Mr. Guo met with Cheng Mufei, threatening him with what he had seen the night before Shaoyi disappeared and the luminous pearl, claiming it proved Cheng was the murderer. He also revealed he knew Cheng's wife was not actually ill and that the story of her tuberculosis was a lie.

Mr. Guo stated the luminous pearl was hidden securely and would be released upon his death, serving as evidence. He demanded money to keep silent. Cheng denied killing Shaoyi. Suddenly, Mr. Guo was killed by an unseen attacker. The attacker revealed himself as Lu Zizheng, the Master of the Sacred Blood Sect, who took credit for eliminating Mr. Guo.

Lu revealed he knew the recent dismemberment case involved a victim killed by bloodcraft and the dismemberment was an attempt to conceal this fact. He also questioned if Cheng practiced bloodcraft. Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao went to find Mr. Guo, suspecting he held information about Shaoyi. They found him dead in his room, appearing to have hanged himself, with a suicide note citing overwhelming debt. They reported the death to the authorities.

Sheriff Song arrived, mentioning the dismembered body case victim was a woman whose face was unrecognizable. Cheng Mufei also arrived and inquired why Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao were there. Duan Yu explained they suspected Mr. Guo due to his conflicts with Shaoyi. Cheng asked if they had found clues about Shaoyi, which Duan Yu denied. Later, discussing the luminous pearl, Duan Yu decided they should return it to the casino.

He reasoned the killer would likely seek to retrieve the pearl as evidence and planned to have the casino owner record anyone who inquired about it, hoping to lure the culprit out. They agreed to pretend to abandon the search for Shaoyi to make the killer lower their guard. Shaoyi was being held captive, lamenting his misfortune and the discovery that his Madam was associated with the Sacred Blood Sect. He attempted to escape but was caught by Cheng Mufei.

Shaoyi pleaded with Cheng, reminding him of his family's close relationship with the Duan family and asking to be released. He explained he had snuck in because he knew Xueniang wasn't ill and was worried, as Cheng wouldn't let anyone visit. Cheng admitted Shaoyi had seen something he shouldn't have but assured him he would not be killed.

A masked Lu Zizheng then appeared, acknowledging Shaoyi as the young master of the Duan family and confirming Cheng Mufei's agreement to cooperate to save his wife. Lu stated Shaoyi would be used as bait to obtain the treasure map. Cheng protested against using Shaoyi, but Lu disregarded his objection. Shaoyi demanded to know Lu's identity; Lu declared himself the Master of the Sacred Blood Sect, the greatest enemy of the Duan family.

Shaoyi begged Cheng not to betray the Duan family. Cheng apologized to Shaoyi, saying he had to save Xueniang and could only guarantee Shaoyi's life for now. He promised to release Shaoyi safely once the treasure map was acquired and take responsibility for his actions. Lu Zizheng appeared before Cheng Mufei again and revealed that Cheng's wife, Xueniang, was a member of the Sacred Blood Sect, though she had lost her memory.

He explained her current severe weakness stemmed from a congenital deficiency and a backlash from using bloodcraft, which was exacerbated when Shaoyi interrupted her practice. He stated her refusal to use bloodcraft again was leading to her death. Lu, as the Master of the Sacred Blood Sect, claimed he was the only one who could save her. He demanded the treasure map.

Lu presented Cheng with one Biluo pill, saying it would awaken Xueniang in three days but was insufficient for a full recovery. He promised a second Biluo pill, needed to completely free her from bloodcraft control, if Cheng obtained the treasure map held by Duan Yan.

Duan Yan arrived at Jizhou Academy and learned from Cheng Mufei that Shaoyi was missing and that Duan Yu was searching for him accompanied by Gu Qingqiao, whom Cheng described as appearing very close to Duan Yu. Duan Yan confronted Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao, expressing anger that Duan Yu would associate with the Star of Rebellion. He accused Gu Qingqiao of being involved in Shaoyi's disappearance and attempted to attack her, calling her an enemy of the Duan family.

The Black Wood Human-shaped Sword shielded Gu Qingqiao, and Duan Yu intervened. Gu Qingqiao asserted that Shaoyi's disappearance was unrelated to her and that she had never intended to be an enemy of the Duan family. She revealed she was a disciple of the Xiling Sect and presented the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, explaining she received it, along with a portion of the treasure map, from Ruan Siqiong before his death.

During the confrontation, a nail fell from the sword, and the sword box broke, revealing the treasure map hidden inside. Gu Qingqiao offered the treasure map to Duan Yan, proposing they cooperate to find Shaoyi. Duan Yan questioned her willingness to give the map to someone who had just attacked her, and she replied that she trusted Duan Yu.

Duan Yan asked what she would do if the Four Treasures could not ultimately be gathered, to which she responded that it would be her fate. The list of people who inquired about the luminous pearl at the casino was given to the Duan family, and Cheng Mufei's name was on it. Duan Yan found it hard to believe Principal Cheng would harm Shaoyi, given their close relationship.

Gu Qingqiao reminded them that Duan Yu had recently seen Mr. Guo arguing with Principal Cheng, but Duan Yu noted an argument wasn't conclusive evidence. Meanwhile, Sheriff Song arrived at the academy with news from the dismembered body case: a Jizhou Academy waist token had been found on the victim. They questioned Principal Cheng about any missing women from the academy, which he denied, stating only male students and female family members or servants resided there.

Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao overheard the conversation. Gu Qingqiao, never having seen Cheng's wife, Xueniang, became suspicious. Duan Yu explained they were going to deliver supplements to Xueniang as requested by Duan Yan. Cheng Mufei repeatedly tried to prevent them from entering his wife's room, citing her contagious illness and need for rest. Gu Qingqiao pressed forward and entered the inner room, where she saw Xueniang. Xueniang appeared normal and recognized Duan Yu.

Seeing Xueniang well, Gu Qingqiao realized the dismembered body was not her and wondered about the identity of the victim. Cheng Mufei spoke with Xueniang, who expressed remorse and the feeling that she was burdening him. Cheng reassured her, promising to protect her and take her away. Later, Duan Yan spoke with Duan Yu about Gu Qingqiao.

While acknowledging she might be trustworthy for the moment, Duan Yan warned Duan Yu not to become too attached, emphasizing her identity as the Star of Rebellion and her unsuitable background for the Duan family. Duan Yu insisted his feelings for Gu Qingqiao were genuine and her status didn't matter. Duan Yan then asked what Duan Yu planned to do if Gu Qingqiao succeeded in gathering the Four Treasures and returning to her own world, as she had described. Duan Yu declared that if she left, he would remain unmarried for the rest of his life.

Episode 29 Recap

Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao went to the yamen to investigate the dismemberment case and encountered Cheng Mufei, who had come to identify a body. The deceased was revealed to be a maid who had served Cheng Mufei's wife, Xueniang. Gu Qingqiao observed that the victim's eyes were bright red, identifying the cause of death as Bloodcraft. Cheng Mufei seemed evasive, which fueled Gu Qingqiao's suspicion that he might have become involved with the Sacred Blood Sect.

Duan Yu resolved to inform his brother, Duan Yan, about these developments. Meanwhile, Xueniang suffered another relapse of her illness. Lu Zizheng urged Cheng Mufei to quickly obtain the treasure map, reminding him that only then would he receive another Biluo pill. Duan Yu and Gu Qingqiao took advantage of Cheng Mufei's absence while he was meeting with Duan Yan to search his residence.

They found Shaoyi, who had been locked up, and Xueniang, who was gravely ill and on the verge of dying. Gu Qingqiao instructed Xing Si to take Xueniang as well. Unexpectedly, Xueniang regained consciousness and seized Xing Si, revealing herself to be a disciple of the Sacred Blood Sect. Duan Yan confronted Cheng Mufei, exposing his allegiance to the Sacred Blood Sect and accusing him of betraying the Four Noble Families.

As Duan Yan prepared to act, Xueniang intervened, taking a sword blow intended for Cheng Mufei. Cheng Mufei pleaded with them to save Xueniang's life. Gu Qingqiao examined her and determined she was beyond help. Cheng Mufei frantically declared he would take her to the Sect Lord, believing another Biluo pill could save her.

Gu Qingqiao revealed the truth: the Biluo pill was not a cure but a poison that accelerated Xueniang's decline, and Cheng Mufei had been deceived by the Sacred Blood Sect Lord. Distraught, Cheng Mufei confessed that he had found Xueniang injured fifteen years prior after the battle against the Sacred Blood Sect and had hidden her identity after she lost her memory due to the Bloodcraft.

The Sacred Blood Sect captured students from Jizhou Academy and threatened their lives, demanding the Star of Rebellion appear with the remaining two treasure maps in exchange for the students' safety. Cheng Mufei attempted to rush out to rescue the students but was stopped by Duan Yan, who argued that the Sacred Blood Sect might not honor the exchange even if they received the maps. Duan Yan entrusted the two treasure maps to Duan Yu for safekeeping.

Shaoyi, seeing his classmates in danger, attempted to join the rescue effort with his self-made weapons, but Duan Yan held him back. During the ensuing argument, Gu Qingqiao quietly took Shaoyi's sleeve arrows and left alone for the Sacred Blood Sect's location. Discovering Gu Qingqiao's absence, Duan Yu realized she had gone to rescue the students. He suggested they use the time she bought them to implement a plan to entrap and eliminate the Sacred Blood Sect.

Cheng Mufei was designated to launch a frontal assault to draw attention, Duan Yan led a force to rescue the students, Duan Yu went to find Gu Qingqiao, and Ruoyi was instructed to escort Shaoyi to safety. When Gu Qingqiao met the Sacred Blood Sect Lord, she presented herself as the Star of Rebellion and engaged him in conversation, delaying for time and attempting to ascertain his motives and power.

She hinted she had the maps and other treasures but claimed to have lost them while traveling, suggesting they return to search. The Sect Lord saw through her deception and attacked. Gu Qingqiao used her sleeve arrows, which the Sect Lord dodged. The spirit of the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword emerged to defend her but was defeated and struck down.

As the Sect Lord prepared to use Bloodcraft to control Gu Qingqiao, Duan Yu arrived and disrupted the attack with the Qilin Bow. Gu Qingqiao recognized the pendant the Sect Lord wore – bearing the symbol of the Meridian Gate – and realized he was responsible for the massacre of the Fire Crane Tribe. Shaoyi also arrived, identifying the Sect Lord as the killer of his friend Wu. Enraged, Shaoyi attacked but was quickly struck down by the Sect Lord.

The Sect Lord then turned his attention to Duan Yu, capturing him and demanding the treasure maps. Seeing Duan Yu in peril, Gu Qingqiao seized a nearby blade and stabbed the Sect Lord, forcing him to retreat. Cheng Mufei, fighting bravely against numerous Sacred Blood Sect disciples, was overwhelmed and died under their Bloodcraft. Duan Yan successfully rescued the academy students. Before he died, Cheng Mufei asked Duan Yan to arrange for him to be buried with Xueniang.

Duan Yan initially hesitated, concerned about Cheng Mufei's reputation given Xueniang's identity, but Duan Yu persuaded him, suggesting that for Cheng Mufei, being buried with his wife was likely more important than preserving his public image. Subsequently, men sent by Duan Yan to reinforce the Xiling Sect returned with grim news. They reported that by the time they arrived, the entire Xiling Sect had been annihilated and their compound burned to the ground.

The few bodies recovered from the fire were unidentifiable. Duan Yan reflected somberly that the Duan family was now the last remaining of the Four Noble Families. Believing the Sacred Blood Sect to be a grave and rapidly escalating threat, he concluded the safest course of action for the Duan family was to eliminate the Star of Rebellion. However, Duan Yu intervened, stating that if Duan Yan intended to harm Gu Qingqiao, he would have to kill him first.

Faced with Duan Yu's defiance, Duan Yan relented and agreed not to harm Gu Qingqiao. Gu Qingqiao noticed that the fifth petal on the mark on her leg had begun to darken, indicating her time was running out. She decided she wanted to return to see Gu Xingwu one last time. Duan Yu, having realized his feelings, told her he did not care about their future together, only about cherishing every day they had. He insisted on accompanying her.

Despite her father's initial apprehension towards Duan Yu, Gu Qingqiao had a heartfelt conversation with Gu Xingwu. She confessed the truth about her origin, explaining that she was not the original Gu Qingqiao but a soul from another world (named Qi Chunjiao) who had transmigrated into Gu Qingqiao's body.

She explained the mark on her leg signified her impending death if she could not return to her original world, and that she could not stay in Changqing or remain by his side forever.

Episode 30 Recap

Gu Xingwu expressed his deep concern for Gu Qingqiao's difficult situation, telling her he did not blame her for hiding the truth but felt heartbroken for her limited time. He confessed he lacked the ability to protect her from danger, and he was thankful to her for letting him see her healthy and happy, and hear her say goodbye. Ruoyun, confined by Magistrate Du, felt resentful. She secretly exchanged clothes with a maid and sneaked out.

Hiding in her father's study, she overheard Magistrate Du discussing matters with the Sacred Blood Sect leader. The leader, injured, required blood from condemned prisoners for healing and demanded more prisoners for a faster recovery. He also instructed Magistrate Du to kill Duan Yan to obtain the remaining two treasure maps.

Magistrate Du expressed difficulty in targeting the cunning and vigilant Duan Yan, so the leader told him only to lure Duan Yan to the residence, promising to handle the rest. Shaoyi visited the Du residence to see Ruoyun. Ruoyun learned that Magistrate Du had invited Duan Yan under the pretense of discussing the broken engagement between Ruoyun and Duan Yu. Ruoyun asked Shaoyi to distract the guards outside while she went to confront Duan Yan.

Magistrate Du pressed Duan Yan about the treasure maps, and Duan Yan insisted the maps were safe, always carried with him. Ruoyun then burst in, causing a scene and demanding Duan Yan leave, saying she did not want to see anyone from the Duan family. Following the disruption, Magistrate Du had Ruoyun confined to her room again. Magistrate Du reported to the Sacred Blood Sect leader that the treasure maps were on Duan Yan and killing him would secure them.

The leader reminded Magistrate Du that the Star of Rebellion had limited time and they must gather the Four Treasures and open the gate of time and space before she died, or their long-standing efforts would be wasted. Later, Magistrate Du punished Ruoyun's maid, Yuanhua, for failing to watch Ruoyun. He asked if Ruoyun had acted strangely recently, learning she had sneaked out the previous day.

Yuanhua, prompted by Ruoyun later, revealed that Magistrate Du was formerly a member of the Sacred Blood Sect. She explained that the Sect forbids marriage with outsiders, and Magistrate Du was expelled for marrying Ruoyun's mother, a commoner. Their expulsion coincidentally saved them when the four noble families later besieged the Sacred Blood Sect. Ruoyun, possessing both Sacred Blood Sect lineage and ordinary health, was considered a "miracle."

Yuanhua also told Ruoyun that the Sacred Blood Sect leader had promised Magistrate Du they could live openly and enjoy glory if the Sect was restored, with Ruoyun becoming the Priestess. However, if their plan failed, the leader would die, and so would Ruoyun. Gu Xingwu filed a complaint with the magistrate's office, accusing the Duan family of raiding his home and kidnapping Gu Qingqiao.

Magistrate Du, finding the complaint peculiar given Duan Yan's previous public support for Gu Qingqiao, decided to investigate in person at the Duan residence. Duan Yan told Magistrate Du that Duan Yu had gone to Xiling and that since Duan Yu was determined to marry Gu Qingqiao and the Duan family was the last remaining noble family, he had decided to kill Gu Qingqiao. Magistrate Du objected, asking to see her first, expressing concern about potential deaths in his jurisdiction.

Magistrate Du was shown to where Gu Qingqiao was being held by Wuyi Guards and severely tortured. Gu Qingqiao defiantly called Duan Yan a hypocrite and warned that Duan Yu would not spare him, while Duan Yan questioned if Duan Yu would truly turn against him for her sake. Duan Yan revealed that the treasure map Gu Qingqiao had given him earlier was fake, which was why he hadn't killed her immediately, hoping she was still useful.

He suggested killing her if necessary, stating the Four Treasures were useless to the Duan family anyway. Magistrate Du asked if he wasn't curious about the location of the Heavenly Pearl, explaining it required all four maps pieced together. Duan Yan admitted he had seen the pieced map but couldn't decipher it. Magistrate Du offered his expertise in painting to help interpret it, but Duan Yan was called away on urgent business, and Magistrate Du left.

Shaoyi, encountering Magistrate Du, feigned casual conversation and inquired about Ruoyun. He then claimed that Duan Yan's assertion about carrying the treasure map was false and that he actually knew where it was hidden after seeing it – specifically, on the multi-treasure shelf in Duan Yan's study. Seizing the opportunity, Magistrate Du pretended to have lost his official seal and insisted on searching for it in the residence, entering Duan Yan's study.

As he was about to leave, Wuyi Guards entered, claiming to have found his seal. Two other Wuyi Guards then staged a practice fight, appearing to accidentally hit Magistrate Du and using the contact as an opportunity to check his neck, confirming he wasn't wearing a necklace. This confirmed the suspicion of Duan Yan and his men, who had become wary of Magistrate Du after Ruoyun's disruption and his persistent questions about the map.

They observed his actions, including a momentary red glint in his eyes reported by a subordinate, and recalled the Sacred Blood Sect leader mentioning using the Soul-stealing Nail on the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword and Magistrate Du's own inquiry about the sword's whereabouts in prison. Concluding that Magistrate Du was likely connected to the Sacred Blood Sect and capable of using blood techniques, they decided he was an enemy.

Duan Yan ordered his subordinate Tu Jia to prepare a heavily trapped dungeon and lure Magistrate Du there the next day under the pretense of killing Gu Qingqiao. Meanwhile, Gu Qingqiao, in confinement, received a visit from Duan Yu, who was worried about her. He apologized for his previous actions and offered any compensation she desired.

Gu Qingqiao, making light of her situation despite the torture, told him she wanted many things, but most importantly, the safety and happiness of everyone around her, including him, her father Gu Xingwu, Dongxi, Da, and the entire Duan family. Duan Yan instructed his subordinate to go to the Du residence to tell Magistrate Du that he planned to kill Gu Qingqiao the next day and that he should try to intervene.

He also ordered the redemption of Qingfeng Restaurant to return it to Mr. Gu. A Priest arrived at the Duan residence, introducing himself as a representative of the Divine Palace sent to collect the Order of the Noble Families following the demise of three of the four noble families. He thanked Duan Yan for his previous guidance from the Divine Palace regarding the Sacred Blood Sect.

The Priest then stated he had a personal request: to visit a friend, Gu Qingqiao, whom he knew was in trouble in the residence. Duan Yan was hesitant but allowed the visit after the Priest asserted the trust placed in the Divine Palace. The Priest, revealed to be Lu Zizheng, met with Gu Qingqiao in the dungeon. Gu Qingqiao, surprised by his appearance, wondered if he was there to rescue her but also felt his timing was inconvenient.

Lu Zizheng confirmed Duan Yan intended to kill her to eliminate future problems, based on what Duan Yan had told him. He offered to take her to the Divine Palace, where she would be safe from Duan Yan. Gu Qingqiao expressed concern about involving him but eventually agreed to cooperate when the time was right.

As Lu Zizheng prepared to leave, he accidentally cut his hand, and Ruoyun, who was nearby, reacted intensely to the sight of the blood, distressed and ordering her maid away. Simultaneously, Magistrate Du was warned by a subordinate that the Duan family seemed to suspect his identity, particularly after his strange visit to the Duan residence. Magistrate Du remained unfazed, stating there was no longer any need to hide. He declared his intention to enter the Duan residence the next day as a Priest to retrieve Gu Qingqiao.

Episode 31 Recap

Magistrate Du is discovered to be connected to the Sacred Blood Sect. Chief Inspector Jin is found disposing of bodies, claiming they were prisoners who died of illness or during toxicity tests under Magistrate Du's orders. Guard Xing attempts to intervene, and Duan Yu arrives, confronting Chief Inspector Jin and accusing him of aiding evil.

Duan Yu inspects the bodies and reveals that the prisoners' red eyes indicate they died from Bloodcraft, confirming their death was at the hands of the Sacred Blood Sect. Chief Inspector Jin pleads ignorance, stating Magistrate Du told him the bodies were for testing. Duan Yu tells Jin that if he wants to live, he must testify against Magistrate Du.

With Chief Inspector Jin as a witness and the bodies as evidence, Duan Yu reports to Duan Yan, and Duan Yan orders Magistrate Du Huaichang to be captured alive at all costs. Meanwhile, in the Du Residence, Ruoyun is unwell, suffering from anxiety and loss of appetite due to the revelations about her identity. Magistrate Du is deeply worried and instructs a servant to monitor Ruoyun closely and report any changes.

Later, servants hear a scream from Ruoyun's room but she refuses to let them in. Magistrate Du finds Ruoyun in distress near Yuanhua's body. Ruoyun is distraught, claiming she didn't mean to kill Yuanhua and doesn't know how it happened, saying she woke up and found herself in that state.

Magistrate Du tries to comfort her, telling her not to be afraid and promising she will become the Priestess once the Sacred Blood Sect is restored, assuring her that no matter her condition, others will only admire her. However, Ruoyun rejects this, stating she doesn't want admiration or the position of Priestess, wishing only to be an ordinary person and return to her old life.

Magistrate Du, realizing Duan Yan already suspects him and they are in danger in Changqing, asks Ruoyun if she is willing to leave forever and start over somewhere no one knows them. Ruoyun agrees, wanting only to be with him away from the people and events that haunt her. Magistrate Du orders a carriage prepared for them to leave the city immediately, cautioning his men not to harm the ordinary servants in the residence.

Around the same time, the Priest, Lu Zizheng, is discussed by members of the Duan family (or their allies), noting his unusual interference in secular affairs, particularly his public support for Gu Qingqiao and his apparent deep concern for her. They observe that Gu Qingqiao seems to be keeping him at a distance and has agreed not to share their plan with him yet.

Lu Zizheng has knocked out the Wuyi Guards and entered the Duan family dungeon where Gu Qingqiao is held. He tells her that Duan Yan is busy pursuing Magistrate Du, making it the ideal time for her to escape. Gu Qingqiao hesitates, mentioning she hasn't gathered all the Four Treasures and feels it's not the right time to return to the Divine Palace.

Lu Zizheng reassures her, claiming he knows the locations of two treasures and that Duan Yan has the last treasure map, promising to get her out and figure out the rest. Gu Qingqiao questions how he knows about the treasure map, as she didn't know about it when she left the Divine Palace. Lu asserts that as a Priest, he knows the secrets of the four noble families and the events in Jizhou made the information easy to deduce.

Gu Qingqiao presses him on how he knew Duan Yan specifically had the map, leading Lu to feel hurt and ask if she doubts him after all they've been through. Gu Qingqiao clarifies she's not doubting him, merely being cautious due to the complex situation. Duan Yu arrives and confronts Lu Zizheng for trespassing and attacking the guards, questioning his motives. Lu asks why he should explain himself to Duan Yu.

They argue, with Duan Yu stating Gu Qingqiao is his fiancée and his responsibility. Lu challenges him, asking why he waited so long to save her if that were true. Lu firmly states Gu Qingqiao is his friend and he will protect her regardless of his status as Priest. Gu Qingqiao interrupts, telling Duan Yu he's mistaken and Lu is helping her.

Then, she reveals to Lu that her apparent break with the Duan family and subsequent suffering were part of a strategic plan devised with Duan Yu to expose Magistrate Du, whom they suspected was involved with the Sacred Blood Sect. Lu is surprised she didn't tell him about this "bitter trick," but Gu Qingqiao explains it was too confidential and she didn't want to endanger him. Gu Qingqiao asks about Magistrate Du's situation.

Duan Yu confirms that Chief Inspector Jin confessed, solidifying the evidence of Magistrate Du's identity. Hearing that Magistrate Du is exposed and has likely fled, Lu Zizheng volunteers to assist in his capture. Duan Yu initially declines, but Lu insists they go together. The Duan family forces pursue Magistrate Du's carriage. Duan Yu and Chief Inspector Jin intercept the carriage first. Magistrate Du claims he is merely retiring to his hometown.

Duan Yu presents Chief Inspector Jin, who tells Magistrate Du that the bodies have been found and identified, revealing his connection to the Sacred Blood Sect. Magistrate Du denies the accusation, but Jin insists he knows the truth. Duan Yu asks Magistrate Du to return to Changqing for trial, for the sake of their families' long acquaintance. Magistrate Du's daughter, Ruoyun, is in the carriage, and he tells her to stay inside. Duan Yan arrives, reinforcing the pursuit.

Magistrate Du, seeing no escape, makes a desperate offer to Duan Yan: he will reveal the whereabouts of the Sacred Blood Sect Leader in exchange for Ruoyun's safety. Duan Yan orders his men to be cautious. Magistrate Du throws a smoke bomb, attempting to escape, but they are quickly surrounded. Ruoyun is injured when the carriage is overturned. Xing Si rushes to help her.

Magistrate Du, seeing Xing Si approach Ruoyun, misinterprets his intention and uses Bloodcraft to attack Xing Si, screaming not to touch his daughter. To save Xing Si, Duan Yu strikes Magistrate Du. Seeing the opportunity, Lu Zizheng quickly moves in and kills the weakened Magistrate Du, stating it is the last thing he can do for the Sacred Blood Sect.

Lu then takes the Meridian Gate necklace from his person and places it on Magistrate Du's body, presenting it as evidence found on him. Gu Qingqiao identifies the necklace as one of the Four Treasures, recognizing it from having seen it on the Sacred Blood Sect Leader before, thus concluding that Magistrate Du was indeed the Leader. Duan Yan's men ask what to do with Ruoyun.

Duan Yu intervenes, pleading with Duan Yan to spare Ruoyun as she is innocent and previously saved his life. Shaoyi also speaks up in her defense, arguing she is different from other Sacred Blood Sect members and might even be able to change back. Considering Ruoyun's innocence, lack of martial arts or Bloodcraft skills, and Duan Yu's plea, Duan Yan agrees to take her back to the Duan Residence for the time being.

Ruoyun expresses gratitude to Duan Yan and is helped away by Xing Si and Shaoyi. Later, Gu Qingqiao is wearing the Meridian Gate necklace given to her by Duan Yu. They discuss their confusion surrounding Magistrate Du's death – why no other Sacred Blood Sect members came to his aid, and why the treasure map was not found on him.

Gu Qingqiao questions Magistrate Du's motive for fleeing if he was the Leader, wondering why he wouldn't stop Duan Yan from killing her, as her death would presumably hinder the Sect's plans. Duan Yu suggests Magistrate Du might have fled because he realized he was suspected. Duan Yu assures her that Xing Si is thoroughly searching the Du Residence for the missing map.

Gu Qingqiao is distracted, thinking about the portrait inside the Meridian Gate and wishing they had cameras to take photos together. Lu Zizheng arrives, intending to escort Gu Qingqiao home. Duan Yu insists on taking her himself, suggesting Lu must be busy with Sacred Blood Sect matters now. Lu retorts that Duan Yu must be equally busy, but Gu Qingqiao ultimately leaves with Lu.

Gu Qingqiao's father, Gu Xingwu, is deeply concerned about her health, as a doctor confirms her pulse is very weak and she has little time left. Gu Xingwu reveals to Duan Yu that he knows Gu Qingqiao is the Star of Rebellion, but emphasizes that she is his daughter and he will not let anything happen to her. Showing Duan Yu her rapidly greying hair, he pleads with him to find a way to save her.

Duan Yu promises to do everything in his power to protect her. Xing Si continues the extensive search of the Du Residence for the treasure map, including looking for secret rooms and investigating Magistrate Du's close contacts like Yang Chunfeng. He reports to Duan Yu that no trace of the map has been found, suggesting it might have been destroyed before Magistrate Du fled.

Duan Yu rejects this possibility and orders the search to continue, simultaneously ordering the Du Residence sealed. Xing Si visits Ruoyun and asks if her father ever mentioned the treasure map, explaining that finding it might help her stay in the Duan family and avoid hardship. Ruoyun maintains she knows nothing about it.

She asks Xing Si where she will be sent, feeling that as someone with Sacred Blood Sect blood, now looking different and having lost her father and status, no relatives will take her in. Xing Si assures her there's always a way and that he and Shaoyi will ensure she is not mistreated. Ruoyun expresses despair, questioning the purpose of her life now that her father is dead and her family is ruined.

Overwhelmed, she confesses to Xing Si that she killed Yuanhua during a moment when she lost control, asking if Duan Yan will kill her if he finds out. Xing Si, pretending not to have heard, urges her never to speak of it again. Later, Ruoyun overhears Shaoyi pleading with Duan Yan to let her stay in the Duan Residence longer, only to be met with a cold refusal.

Duan Yan states that keeping her is inappropriate due to her identity and gender, and that not killing her is already his greatest generosity. When Shaoyi offers to marry her to protect her, Duan Yan dismisses the idea as absurd and forbids it, causing Shaoyi to angrily leave, calling Duan Yan heartless. Having overheard this, Ruoyun feels a sense of bitter irony for hoping for protection from her father's killer.

Concluding she has no place in the world, she decides to end her life and take her secret with her. As she prepares to do so, Lu Zizheng appears, stopping her. He asks why she is there and she gives a vague excuse. He then questions why she didn't tell Duan Yan that her father wasn't the real Sacred Blood Sect Leader, revealing that Magistrate Du had been harboring someone who was the true Leader. Ruoyun asks how he knows this. Lu Zizheng then reveals the shocking truth: he himself is that person, the real Sacred Blood Sect Leader.

Episode 32 Recap

Gu Qingqiao felt that Ruoyun was very pitiable. People cannot choose their origins, and even if they find a place to hide, they must live in constant concealment. She believed that not everyone in the Sacred Blood Sect was evil and that good people should have the right to live. She hoped for a good outcome for both the Duan family and the Sacred Blood Sect.

Lu Zizheng approached Ruoyun and told her that if it weren't for Duan Yu, she wouldn't be homeless and her father wouldn't have been killed. He asked her if she wanted revenge, emphasizing that she just needed to say yes or no. Lu Zizheng then spoke with Duan Yu, explaining that Gu Qingqiao's body was weakening and he was worried she might not survive until Duan Yu gathered the Four Treasures.

He proposed taking her back to the Divine Palace to ask the Palace Lord if there was a way to extend her life. Gu Qingqiao agreed to go with Lu Zizheng, stating that since the legend of the Four Treasures was a prophecy from the Divine Palace, perhaps the Palace Lord had a method to save her life.

Before leaving, she entrusted the Meridian Gate to Duan Yu for safekeeping, though she emphasized that he meant more to her than the item. Duan Yu was hesitant to let her go with Lu Zizheng, expressing concern about him, but Gu Qingqiao dismissed his worries. Duan Yu then arranged for Wuyi Guards to secretly follow and protect her. Lu Zizheng went to see Duan Yan, pretending to have important information about Magistrate Du.

When Duan Yan leaned in to listen, Lu Zizheng used Bloodcraft to kill him and obtain the remaining treasure maps. Shaoyi, looking for his father Duan Yan because Gu Qingqiao was leaving, discovered his father had locked himself in the study overnight. Finding this unusual, he entered and found Duan Yan dead from Bloodcraft. Enraged, Shaoyi confronted Du Ruoyun, accusing her of the murder.

Ruoyun denied it, stating that she had once overheard her father talking secretly with someone she now believed to be the true Sacred Blood Sect leader. The Wuyi Guards sent to protect Gu Qingqiao were also killed by Sacred Blood Sect disciples. Lu Zizheng took Gu Qingqiao to Shangqing Temple, claiming he had left something there. Upon arrival, he used the four treasure maps to locate the Heavenly Pearl, which turned out to be a gold medal.

Lu Zizheng incapacitated a monk at the temple, instructing him to deliver a message to Duan Yu. It was at this point that Gu Qingqiao realized Lu Zizheng was the Sacred Blood Sect leader. Lu Zizheng then took her captive to the Divine Palace.

At the Divine Palace, Lu Zizheng informed the Priests that the Duan family had returned the Order of the Noble Families and were planning to attack the Divine Palace, driven by their desire for the Palace Lord's power. The Priests, upon hearing this, vowed to ensure the Duan family would not return from the attack. Lu Zizheng instructed them to bring Duan Yu to him if captured.

Upon receiving the monk's message, Duan Yu learned that the Wuyi Guards were dead and Gu Qingqiao had been taken to the Divine Palace by Lu Zizheng. He immediately decided to go to the Divine Palace to rescue her. Shaoyi insisted on accompanying him to avenge his father. Xing Si was sent to retrieve the Qilin Bow.

While Xing Si was getting the bow, Du Ruoyun asked to see it, and under the pretense of helping him find a lost sachet, she secretly tampered with the bow. Duan Yu and his group entered a forest filled with miasma. Duan Yu recalled that the Divine Palace had flowing water and suggested following the water source to find the entrance. Xing Si bravely explored a cold pool and found an underwater cave leading out.

The group swam through the cave and emerged at the Divine Palace, but were immediately attacked by a flock of poisonous crows. Meanwhile, in the Divine Palace, Lu Zizheng revealed to Gu Qingqiao that Ruan Shiqiong's Sword Spirit had been nailed with the Soul-stealing Nail for a second time, and that the next appearance would result in his soul perishing. Gu Qingqiao was heartbroken, realizing he had used her despite her considering him her best friend.

Lu Zizheng admitted he had planned everything from the start, though he initially hadn't intended to harm her, but felt her trusting others over him was a betrayal. He stated that those who deserved to die were gone and this was the consequence of offending the Sacred Blood Sect. He confirmed he had killed nearly a hundred people at the Xiling Sect, including Wang Tianshan, despite their kindness to him, because they refused to surrender.

He recounted witnessing the massacre of the Sacred Blood Sect by the four noble families when he was a child, his subsequent life of hardship, and how entering the Divine Palace through the Human Poison Pit trial was his only way to survive. Lu Zizheng explained that the Sacred Blood Sect members were naturally weak and needed Bloodcraft to survive like ordinary people, claiming they only used it on animals before the four noble families attacked them.

He stated his goal was to open the gate of time and space to return to the sect's most glorious era so their people could live openly. Gu Qingqiao questioned why the four noble families attacked if the Sacred Blood Sect had not harmed anyone.

Lu Zizheng replied it was due to fear and a prophecy by the Divine Palace Lord that the Sacred Blood Sect would cause chaos, leading the Duan family to unite the other three families against them. Gu Qingqiao expressed her confusion about the Divine Palace Lord's seemingly contradictory prophecies. She then offered to help Lu Zizheng open the gate of time and space on the condition that she meet the Divine Palace Lord.

Gu Qingqiao was then brought before the Divine Palace Lord, who was revealed to be Master Kongkong. She asked him what she should do. Master Kongkong replied that the decision was not for him to make, but for her to decide herself.

Episode 33 Recap

Master Kongkong told Qi Chunjiao that she is the key to everything, the beginning and the end, and advised her to follow her heart and make her own choices before his life ended. Duan Yu and his companions arrived at the Divine Palace but were blocked by the Priests. Duan Yu explained he was there because his fiancée, Gu Qingqiao, had been taken by Priest Lu Zizheng.

The Priests asserted that having passed the trials, a Priest has no worldly identity regardless of their past and that Priest Lu Zizheng had reasons for his actions, refusing to hand over Gu Qingqiao. Unable to resolve the situation peacefully, Duan Yu and his group engaged in a fight with the Priests. Shaoyi and others held off the Priests, urging Duan Yu to hurry and find Gu Qingqiao. Duan Yu confronted Priest Lu Zizheng.

Lu Zizheng taunted Duan Yu, remarking that his internal energy was blocked and difficult to use, warning that further use would only hasten his death. He revealed that Miss Du, Du Ruoyun, was responsible for rigging something against Duan Yu. As they fought, Gu Qingqiao used one of Duan Yu's arrows to strike and wound Lu Zizheng. At that moment, the gate of time and space opened. Characters urged Qiao to enter the gate quickly to go home.

However, Lu Zizheng attacked from behind. Standing over Gu Qingqiao, Lu Zizheng declared that this was destiny and it could not be changed. He vowed to revive the Sacred Blood Sect, dominate the martial world, and allow the Sacred Blood Clan to live openly, no longer needing to hide. Gu Qingqiao suddenly awoke, finding the world drastically changed. Her hair had turned completely white, startling passersby in Changqing. The Changqing Duan family no longer existed.

She learned that all the shops and businesses were now owned by the Sacred Blood Sect. She went to Qingfeng Restaurant to find her father, Gu Xingwu, but he did not recognize her, believing his daughter had passed away years ago. Searching for answers, she inquired about the authorities, but even the local magistrate's name was different. Feeling lost, she visited the ancient Acacia Tree where she had once made a promise with Duan Yu.

As she reminisced, a young man appeared behind her who looked exactly like Duan Yu. Excitedly, she rushed to embrace him, only for him to introduce himself as Song Yu, a scholar. Despite his insistence that he was Song Yu and didn't know her, Gu Qingqiao was convinced he was Duan Yu, arguing that even if the past was changed, his identity couldn't be altered so completely. Song Yu maintained his identity and left.

Song Yu returned home with Gu Qingqiao and told his parents that he had become intimate with her and must take responsibility, asking for their approval to marry. His father was furious that he had become so involved with someone he had just met. His mother questioned the suddenness and Gu Qingqiao's unknown background and white hair, seeing it as an ill omen.

Gu Qingqiao tried to explain to Song Yu that she was originally from the 21st century, her real name was Qi Chunjiao, and she needed to gather the Four Treasures to return home, mentioning their past connection as betrothed in a previous life. Song Yu, unable to comprehend her story, believed she was suffering from "madness" that could perhaps be controlled.

He later discussed arranging a formal engagement and bringing betrothal gifts, despite Gu Qingqiao saying it wasn't necessary, insisting on proper etiquette. Meanwhile, Priest Lu Zizheng examined a book titled "Chronicles of Eternal Life" written by Song Chengming, which detailed the Sacred Blood Sect's practice of using live human blood. He ordered the author killed. Lu Zizheng questioned Ruoyun about the Xu family in Cangzhou and their efforts to bring Jizhou Academy under Sacred Blood Sect influence.

Ruoyun reported that the eldest son of the Xu family was frail and could only survive using the Sacred Blood Sect's Blood Technique, which had convinced Xu Xin to pledge loyalty in exchange for a prior promise from Lu Zizheng. Ruoyun expressed caution about trusting Xu Xin, being from one of the Four Noble Families. Lu Zizheng dismissed her concerns.

Noticing Ruoyun's fear, Lu Zizheng told her she was now the Priestess of the Sacred Blood Sect and did not need to be timid as she was before. The next morning, Song Yu brought a variety of breakfast items for Gu Qingqiao, unsure of her preferences. He told her to blame him if there were any conflicts with his parents.

Song Yu's mother spoke privately with Gu Qingqiao, emphasizing that her unknown origins and white hair would cause Song Yu to be plagued by gossip, hindering his studies and future prospects. She added that Gu Qingqiao's frail appearance suggested she could not adequately care for Song Yu throughout their lives. Gu Qingqiao acknowledged the truth in her words, realizing she might not be able to care for him for a lifetime and that a mismatched marriage would bring hardship.

Song Yu's mother urged her to reconsider, suggesting Song Yu should marry someone better suited for him. Later, at Yuyou Academy, Song Yu was warned by classmates about Gu Qingqiao, who called her a "witch" because of her white hair. Song Yu defended her, leading to a fight. Gu Qingqiao arrived and stopped the fight, telling the classmates that they had misunderstood and that she had merely received temporary shelter from Song Yu, denying any other relationship between them.

Song Yu was hurt by her denial, reminding her of her previous promises to grow old together and have children. Gu Qingqiao then claimed she had been lying the day before, intending to scam some money and leave, but he had taken her too seriously. She reiterated that her hair was already white, so growing old together was impossible, and called him a naive "bookworm" before bidding him farewell and stating she was leaving Changqing.

Song Yu's mother later informed Song Chengming that Gu Qingqiao had agreed to leave. Song Chengming expressed worry about Song Yu and the growing power of the Sacred Blood Sect, stating it was not yet safe to reveal certain matters to Song Yu. Despite the danger, he was organizing scholars to resist the Sacred Blood Sect's cruel practices of using live humans for blood techniques and seizing property.

Episode 34 Recap

Gu Qingqiao walked through the streets, feeling hungry and without money, regretting not having eaten dinner before leaving. Just then, Song Yu offered her two flatbreads, revealing he had been following her all along. He told her she could cause him trouble instead of harming others, stating that all she needed was money and a livelihood, both of which he possessed.

Gu Qingqiao was touched, wondering why he was so kind to her after knowing her for such a short time. Song Yu showed her a necklace he had worn since childhood, explaining that the person in the portrait on it looked exactly like her. He believed this was destiny. Gu Qingqiao identified the necklace as the Meridian Gate, one of the Four Treasures she needed to collect to return home.

Song Yu told her that if she gathered the Four Treasures and still had time, he would wait for her in Changqing. Upon returning home, Song Yu discovered his parents had been killed by the Sacred Blood Sect. His father had printed a collection of writings exposing the Sacred Blood Sect's use of living people to practice Bloodcraft and urging the public to resist them.

This angered Lu Zizheng, the Leader of the Sacred Blood Sect, who sent people to kill them. Song Yu survived because he was not home at the time. However, Sacred Blood Sect members found a dragon pendant belonging to Duan Yu at the scene. Recognizing its significance, Ruoyun, a Sacred Blood Sect member present, reported it, and Lu Zizheng ordered his followers to capture Song Yu. Gu Qingqiao decided to take Song Yu to the Xiling Sect for protection.

After leaving the city, they were captured by a group of bandits. The chief of the Heihu Mountain bandits turned out to be Duan Shaoyi. Learning they were from Changqing, Shaoyi wanted them to lead his forces to attack the Sacred Blood Sect and take over Changqing. Hearing their target was the Sacred Blood Sect, Song Yu declared they would be his benefactors if they eliminated the sect and expressed his desire to join the attack to avenge his parents.

Shaoyi questioned Song Yu's abilities due to his frail appearance. Gu Qingqiao claimed Song Yu was a legendary archer in his previous life. When Song Yu initially struggled with a regular bow, Gu Qingqiao suggested Shaoyi might have a sleeve arrow. Shaoyi produced one, and Song Yu proved to be incredibly accurate with it.

Gu Qingqiao asked about Shaoyi's plan to attack the Sacred Blood Sect and quickly realized it was a suicidal mission with only a few dozen men against a heavily entrenched organization. She proposed an alternative: finding the Four Treasures to open the gate of time and space and restore the world to its original state. Just then, the Sacred Blood Sect attacked Heihu Mountain. Ruoyun used her Bloodcraft, slaughtering many bandits. Watching the chaos, Song Yu suddenly remembered his childhood.

He realized he was indeed from the Duan family of Changqing. He recalled the Sacred Blood Sect attacking his home, his father and brother being killed, and his mother helping him and Shaoyi escape. During their escape, he fell off a cliff, losing his memory, and was rescued by Song Yu's adoptive parents, who named him Song Yu. Duan Yu, Shaoyi, and Gu Qingqiao seized the opportunity to escape Heihu Mountain while Ruoyun was searching elsewhere.

Shaoyi grieved for his fallen brothers, lamenting his inability to save them. Duan Yu revealed his true identity, confirming he was Shaoyi's uncle. Shaoyi was saddened by his perceived weakness and felt unworthy of being the Chief of Heihu Mountain or possessing his token. Gu Qingqiao noticed the token around Shaoyi's neck and recognized it. Shaoyi explained it was the token passed down by the former chief. Gu Qingqiao identified it as the Heavenly Pearl, another of the Four Treasures.

She explained that with the Meridian Gate and the Heavenly Pearl, they now had two of the Four Treasures. If they could find Ruan Siqiong in Xiling to obtain the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, they would have three. Gathering all four would allow them to open the gate of time and space and return to a time when the Duan family was the rightful leader.

Duan Yu declared his trust in Gu Qingqiao and pledged to help her collect the Four Treasures. Shaoyi, seeing no other viable option, also agreed to assist. Meanwhile, Lu Zizheng arrived at the Xiling Sect. He addressed Wang Tianshan as "Master," which greatly flattered Wang Tianshan, who insisted he was unworthy of such a title from the Sacred Blood Sect's leader. Lu Zizheng expressed his intention to attend Wang Tianshan's classes.

Gu Qingqiao, Duan Yu, and Shaoyi arrived in Qingshui Town. They saw wanted posters for Duan Yu and Shaoyi displayed publicly. Gu Qingqiao recalled how she had previously modified her own wanted poster using a similar method to evade capture. While in town, Shaoyi encountered a young woman, Xiao Wu, who stole his jade pendant.

Shaoyi chased after her, intending to make her his "stockade wife," but Xiao Wu and her companions mocked him and told him to strip, creating a comical scene before eventually returning the pendant. Gu Qingqiao then continued her efforts to find information.

Episode 35 Recap

Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu found Shaoyi hiding by a wall, stripped of his clothes. Shaoyi explained that a girl named Wu had robbed him. Gu Qingqiao told Shaoyi that in their previous lives, he and Wu had been destined to be together, but their relationship was cut short when the Sacred Blood Sect massacred the entire Fire Crane Tribe, Wu's people.

Knowing that Gu Qingqiao and her companions would seek Ruan Siqiong in Xiling, the Sacred Blood Sect anticipated their arrival. To avoid immediate detection upon entering Xiling, Gu Qingqiao devised a plan in Qingshui Town. They had an innkeeper loudly announce that Ruan Siqiong, the matchless man, was dining there, hoping to lure him out. Instead of Ruan Siqiong, Lu Zizheng arrived.

Wang Tianshan, the leader of Xiling, encountered Gu Qingqiao and recognized her as someone who, like Lu Zizheng, retained memories of a previous life. When Gu Qingqiao fainted, Wang Tianshan helped Duan Yu and Shaoyi evade Lu Zizheng. Wang Tianshan guided the three of them discreetly to Xiling and concealed them within the Jiuqing Secret Cave. Lu Zizheng discovered that Gu Qingqiao had reached Qingshui Town but could not find her despite searching the whole town.

Realizing they must have gone to Xiling, he arrived there and demanded Wang Tianshan take him to the Jiuqing Secret Cave, threatening to kill Xiling disciples if he refused. Wang Tianshan questioned Lu Zizheng's obsession with the past life and his cruel actions in this life, including forcing Xiling disciples into roles they did not want, and asked him what he truly desired, suggesting killing only brought fear, not recognition.

Lu Zizheng expressed his desire to be accepted by the world and not viewed as an outsider, lamenting that despite his efforts and sacrifices in this life, he felt repeatedly disappointed and abandoned by those he cherished and still found himself on the same path as before, stained with the blood of his sect brothers.

Wang Tianshan urged him to release the disciples and reconsider his path, promising to take him to the cave only if he spared the disciples' lives. Lu Zizheng agreed, prioritizing the location of the hidden sword. Gu Qingqiao awoke in the Jiuqing Secret Cave. She led Duan Yu and Shaoyi into the area where the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword was hidden and found Ruan Siqiong.

She recognized him as the matchless man from their previous life, but in this life, Ruan Siqiong had abandoned martial arts to focus on medicine and appeared weak. Ruan Siqiong explained that his master, Zhang Sifeng, had hidden him in the Jiuqing Secret Cave three years prior, when Lu Zizheng became the Sacred Blood Sect leader and demanded that Xiling hand over both Ruan and the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword.

Zhang Sifeng had told him to wait for the sword seeker. Gu Qingqiao declared that she was the one the sword seeker, and Ruan Siqiong stated that the sword's recognition was the most important thing. Gu Qingqiao successfully drew the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword. Recognizing her as the sword seeker, Ruan Siqiong confirmed he had been waiting for her.

Gu Qingqiao stressed the need for them to leave quickly, as Lu Zizheng had discovered their presence in Xiling and might find the cave soon, urging Ruan Siqiong to take care of himself. Gu Qingqiao left Xiling with the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword, accompanied by Duan Yu and Shaoyi, but they were ambushed by the Sacred Blood Sect.

Lu Zizheng appeared and confronted Gu Qingqiao, asking why she always chose against him, even though he was the first person she met in the previous life and could offer her everything in this one. He demanded she hand over the Four Treasures and return to Xiling as his junior sister, promising to spare her companions. Gu Qingqiao refused to trust him and told him his own actions were why everyone opposed him.

Ruan Siqiong then arrived and attempted to deter Lu Zizheng by feigning his past life identity as the matchless fighter. However, Lu Zizheng quickly exposed this as a deception, claiming he had already gained the sword's power and Ruan was merely a fake burdened by past obsession. As the Xiling disciples, led by Bao Quancai and Huahua, rushed forward to protect Gu Qingqiao and her companions, urging them to escape, Lu Zizheng struck them down.

Gu Qingqiao, Duan Yu, and Shaoyi managed to flee amidst the sacrifice of the Xiling disciples. They fled towards the Divine Palace, hoping to find Master Kongkong. Upon entering the palace grounds, they were discovered by Ruoyun. Shaoyi told Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu to continue ahead, volunteering to hold off Ruoyun to distract her.

He reassured them he would not die, reminding Gu Qingqiao of her promise and stating he was no longer an orphan and had family in her. He handed something important to Gu Qingqiao before engaging Ruoyun. Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu proceeded into the Divine Palace, noting the absence of the miasma that usually surrounded it.

They soon realized that the people inside were not true priests but Sacred Blood Sect disciples in disguise, confirming they had walked into a trap. They attempted to run, but Ruoyun revealed that her master had deliberately allowed them to enter, implying a larger plan centered on Gu Qingqiao. Within the Divine Palace, Lu Zizheng spoke with Master Kongkong, whom he had confined for fifteen years since his rebirth.

Lu Zizheng recounted his hopes after rebirth – to have a happy family, a loving sect, and an admired lover, just like Duan Yu. He lamented that despite starting over, he ended up on the same path, having killed members of his own sect. Master Kongkong told him he was trapped by his obsession.

Lu Zizheng admitted he considered giving up revenge and staying in Xiling but felt repeatedly disappointed and abandoned by those he wanted to cherish, leading him to feel unwilling to relinquish his path. Shaoyi continued to fight Ruoyun, asserting his combat skills and his promise not to die, but he was ultimately no match for her. Meanwhile, Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu were pursued by numerous disguised disciples. With no other escape route, they ran into a dark cave. Strangely, the pursuers stopped at the cave entrance and did not follow them inside. Duan Yu used a fire starter to light a torch, illuminating the darkness.

Episode 36 (Ending) Recap

Inside the cave, Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu found themselves in the Human Poison Pit, a place where only one person could ever emerge, regardless of how many entered. The air was thick with humidity, making the torch Gu Qingqiao tried to light useless, leaving them in darkness. Gu Qingqiao was already weak, her eyes sensitive to light.

Duan Yu, however, could navigate the darkness by sound, a skill he possessed as a superb marksman, just as he had in the past. He held Gu Qingqiao's hand and guided her, recalling how skilled she was at finding paths even when she couldn't see. They stumbled upon a warning carved into the wall: "A beauty with withered bones. A desolate and abandoned pavilion. Of those who enter the Human Poison Pit, only one person can leave."

Gu Qingqiao was frightened, but Duan Yu urged her not to believe it, insisting it was a lie. Outside the pit, Lu Zizheng was informed that Duan Shaoyi was dead and that Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu had entered the Human Poison Pit. Knowing it was a trial area where only one could survive, he ordered his men to guard the exit and kill Duan Yu on sight if he came out.

When asked what would happen if Gu Qingqiao emerged, Lu Zizheng dismissed the possibility, certain that Duan Yu, driven by his blood feud, wouldn't die willingly and wouldn't make a sacrifice for Gu Qingqiao, who he believed was already dying. Inside, Gu Qingqiao grew weaker. They considered trying to go back the way they came but realized they were trapped in a maze, having circled back despite leaving markers.

Gu Qingqiao suggested Duan Yu leave her and go on, leaving her a trail to follow. But Duan Yu refused, reminding her of their engagement and vowing never to leave her. Gu Qingqiao became dizzy, and Duan Yu offered to carry her, teasing her about a past time he couldn't. As they pressed on, perhaps nearing the exit, they talked about their past lives, remembering their first meeting in her kitchen over braised pork.

Gu Qingqiao, feeling her strength failing, asked Duan Yu to call her name, "Qiao," repeatedly, finding comfort in his voice. She urged him to live on for her. She seemed to be slipping away, prompting Duan Yu to desperately tell her not to sleep, reminding her of the many things she still needed to tell him and the long life they were meant to share. Days passed outside.

Lu Zizheng was impatient, believing no one could resist the temptation to survive alone in the pit. But after three days, unexpectedly, Gu Qingqiao and Duan Yu emerged together, supporting each other. Lu Zizheng was astonished they were both alive. Duan Yu told him that the path is never just one, and sometimes, when cornered, turning back offers a chance of survival. Gu Qingqiao, regaining her strength, demanded the Nine-turn Melodious Bell back from Lu Zizheng.

Frustrated, Lu Zizheng questioned why she always chose Duan Yu over him across lifetimes. He demanded she hand over the Four Treasures, claiming she had no choice. As his men prepared to attack, Gu Qingqiao deliberately cut her finger and feigned throwing the Black Wood Human-shaped Sword at Lu Zizheng. In reality, the Four Treasures returned to their rightful places, opening a gate of time and space. Lu Zizheng was wounded trying to stop her.

He prevented his subordinate from interfering further. Duan Yu urged Gu Qingqiao to go home quickly. She left her ring with him and stepped through the shimmering gate. Qi Chunjiao woke up in a hospital bed, disoriented. Her mother was there, along with Duan Yu, Ruan Shiqiong, and Lu Zizheng, celebrating her winning a gold medal. Confused, she wondered if her experiences in the divine palace and the Human Poison Pit were just a dream.

Her mother dismissed her questions about the divine palace, focusing on the celebration. While still in the hospital, Qi Chunjiao experienced a vivid illusion. Lu Zizheng appeared, claiming to be the Leader of the Sacred Blood Sect and that she was his destined bride across multiple lives, which was why she possessed the "power" to return to the past. He asserted this fate was sealed since their first encounter at Shangqing Temple.

Duan Yu then appeared in the illusion, telling her not to be deceived, that it was all a trick. Duan Yu and Lu Zizheng began to fight, seemingly falling off a cliff. Qi Chunjiao cried out and, just as she felt herself falling, she fully awoke. Her mother was by her side, comforting her and explaining she was having nightmares due to her recovery from being hit and falling into a coma.

The doctor had said the nightmares would decrease as she got better. Five years later, Qi Chunjiao, Duan Yu, Ruan Shiqiong, and Lu Zizheng were gathered at a restaurant called "The Glory of Meat," which was owned by Qi Chunjiao's mother. Qi Chunjiao admitted to telling them about her dramatic dream journey to Changqing, which had prompted them to become shareholders in her mother's successful business. They teased her about tricking them into investing.

Shaoyi, also present, distributed wedding invitations, announcing his upcoming marriage. This news brought a moment of reflection for everyone. Qi Chunjiao's mother, seeing her daughter with Duan Yu and Lu Zizheng, openly expressed her desire for her daughter to marry one of them, admiring both. Qi Chunjiao tried to get her to stop. Later, Lu Zizheng sought out Qi Chunjiao, expressing his frustration that after growing up together, she didn't see him as a potential partner.

Qi Chunjiao clarified that she saw him like a brother, someone she could be completely herself around, but it wasn't love. Lu Zizheng reminded her of how Duan Yu had rejected her years ago to study abroad and warned that he could abandon her again for his career, as he was currently working in China as an expatriate and would likely return abroad. He urged her to think clearly about her relationship with Duan Yu.

Qi Chunjiao's mother asked about her feelings, especially regarding Lu Zizheng, who had always treated her like a sister. Qi Chunjiao admitted she had always liked Duan Yu, even in her dream and still did. However, she recalled his past words that he wouldn't change his path for anyone and stated she didn't want him to change his original intentions for her now. She suggested she might choose not to marry either of them, much to her mother's dismay.

She explained she cherished her family after her father's passing and her coma experience, and didn't want anyone to leave her, hinting at her reluctance to marry and potentially lose her current closeness with her mother. Meanwhile, Lu Zizheng confronted Duan Yu, criticizing him for hurting Qi Chunjiao when he left for studies abroad and vowing to prevent him from doing so again for his career.

He highlighted his own constant presence in Qi Chunjiao's life since childhood, even revealing that her contact for him on her phone was "The Creditor," a nickname reflecting their deep shared history. Duan Yu acknowledged his family ties abroad had necessitated his departure but confessed he had always liked Qi Chunjiao, even arranging their supposed chance encounters years ago. Lu Zizheng called his reasons cowardly excuses, saying he didn't even know what he wanted, unlike Shaoyi, who was getting married.

Despite her earlier hesitation, Qi Chunjiao met Duan Yu at the old train station where they used to have their arranged "chance encounters." Duan Yu admitted he had waited there for her, not just hoped to run into her. He confessed his long-standing feelings for her and announced his decision to stay in China. Qi Chunjiao initially felt some things, once missed, were best left unsaid.

But Duan Yu countered, saying there was still time to speak of missed things. " As time goes by," he told her, "we will never part." At Shaoyi's wedding, Qi Chunjiao's mother, seeing both Duan Yu and Lu Zizheng looking handsome, remarked that she'd be happy with either as a son-in-law, causing Qi Chunjiao to object. They all joined the newlyweds and other guests for celebratory photos, moving forward together in their lives.