Pretty Boy Recap, Plot, Synopsis

Pretty Boy Synopsis

Qing Cai, the son of the late king, who, in order to avoid the turmoil of the royal court, lives under an assumed identity in a small town. His peaceful life is disrupted when his adoptive father, Han Zhong, is in danger. In order to save him, Qing Cai disguises himself as a woman and infiltrates Mingyi Mountain Manor, a place that only accepts female disciples.

There, he meets Gan Pu, the orphan of the Mo Gate who is seeking revenge, as well as Wang Yishao, Han Aizhen, Gao Yin, Hu Jiao, and others, each with their own identities and motives. During this time, in order to conceal his true identity, Qing Cai becomes involved in a series of humorous and awkward situations. He also develops feelings for Gan Pu.

They begin as enemies, but eventually fall in love and understand each other. However, as they come to learn each other's true identities, Qing Cai and Gan Pu start to drift apart. Ultimately, Gan Pu resolves her inner conflict, and she and Qing Cai join forces to fight against their enemies.

Pretty Boy Recap

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On the streets and in the alleys, the burly man Qing Cai roamed among the local hooligans. However, he disdained their petty thievery and deceitful ways. Instead of indulging in such dishonorable acts, he adhered to principles of self-discipline and etiquette, even urging his peers to follow rules. Acts like harassing virtuous women were strictly forbidden in his eyes. One day, Qing Cai’s father suddenly disappeared. Qing Cai discovered that his disappearance might be linked to the Mingyi Manor.

Determined to uncover the truth, he followed a group of young women. However, the dense forest surrounding the manor was eerie, and they soon lost their way. Luckily, Qing Cai encountered a fellow traveler—a masked woman dressed in black, who appeared to be scouting the area as well. Qing Cai seized an opportunity to pull off the assassin’s mask, revealing the stunning face of Gan Pu.

Struck by her beauty, Qing Cai immediately fell for her and began trying to convince her to team up with him to infiltrate the Mingyi Manor. Unexpectedly, she slipped away, leaving him behind. To enter the Mingyi Manor, one must be a woman. Qing Cai, a towering man with a prominent beard, clearly didn’t qualify. Left with no other choice, he paid a local disguise expert, who worked on him extensively until he managed to adopt some feminine traits.

The Mingyi Manor held an annual recruitment for female disciples, and Qing Cai seized the chance to sign up. Despite his mediocre skills, he surprisingly passed the initial test. Among those who also passed were Han Aizhen, Gan Pu, and a few other young women. These ladies were not only skilled in martial arts but also strikingly beautiful. A matron from the Mingyi Manor led the recruits on a tour of the estate.

Once inside, the group found that the manor was far from the grand vision they had imagined. The firewood rooms, in particular, were filthy. Despite its reputation for excellent instructors, no one seemed to notice Qing Cai was a man in disguise. Following the other women, Qing Cai listened as the matron assigned them all to a shared dormitory. Qing Cai was shocked, protesting that so many people in one room was too much for him.

His objections were ignored, forcing him to claim he preferred cool air and suggesting he would sleep outside. Meanwhile, the owner of the Mingyi Manor had heard rumors that some factions were infiltrating their ranks under the guise of new disciples. Sensing the tension, they ordered their subordinates to keep a close eye on the recruits. Living among the women inevitably led to some awkward situations.

Although Qing Cai claimed he used perfume to explain any oddities about himself, the matron dragged him to the pond to teach him how to “blend in” by bathing with everyone else. When the other women began undressing, Qing Cai awkwardly covered his eyes. Suddenly, he noticed several girls staring wide-eyed behind him. Panicked, he thought he had finally been exposed. To his relief, the women were actually staring at a male instructor standing behind him.

Qing Cai breathed a sigh of relief but knew he had to quickly find his father and escape. Aside from completing tasks assigned by the matron, Qing Cai began secretly investigating the estate, familiarizing himself with every corner of the manor. During his exploration, he encountered a familiar figure—the stunning woman who had aimed a crossbow at him that night. As it turned out, she was also a recruit at Mingyi Manor.

Back then, she had disguised herself as a man, so Qing Cai couldn’t confirm her identity. Now, seeing her wield a crossbow again, he was certain it was Gan Pu. Ironically, Gan Pu mistook Qing Cai for an actual woman. She even pinched his cheek, complimenting his smooth and delicate skin.

While Gan Pu and Qing Cai were investigating the manor together, another mysterious figure appeared. Han Aizhen accidentally triggered a mechanism, causing the alarm bells within the manor to ring loudly. The entire manor quickly went on high alert.

While fleeing, Han Aizhen was bitten by a venomous snake. Although she managed to suck out the venom herself, she fainted on her way back. Her companions carried her back to the dormitory. At that moment, Qing Cai and Gan Pu finally realized that the sneaky figure they had encountered earlier was Han Aizhen. They immediately regretted their actions, knowing that this would likely create animosity between them.

Lessons began at the Mingyi Manor, starting with a dance class. The dance instructor first demonstrated the moves. Each time she came near Qing Cai, she commented that he had a distinctly masculine scent. Qing Cai, unable to deal with her flirtatious remarks, could only smile awkwardly and praise her for her "keen observation."

Another male teacher was introduced during the class—Wang Yishao. To divert attention from himself, Qing Cai suggested that Teacher Wang demonstrate the difference between how men and women danced. The group applauded the idea. Wang Yishao turned out to be exceptional. His movements were fluid and graceful, exuding the charm of a woman, yet his vigor made him stand out. He was as serene as a still maiden and as agile as a leaping hare.

Wang Yishao seemed flawless at first, but when the matron mentioned her cat, Qing Cai noticed Wang Yishao's fearful reaction. Seizing the opportunity, Qing Cai deliberately brought the matron's cat into the classroom. Upon seeing the cat, Wang Yishao panicked and tried desperately to avoid it. Qing Cai chased Wang Yishao all over the place, eventually ending up in a secluded area with locked doors, windows, and numerous alarms. It was clearly a place meant for detaining someone.

Qing Cai relayed everything he had observed to Gan Pu. Based on the lock and the route of the mechanisms he described, they calculated they would need 50 taels of silver to proceed. Qing Cai was shocked; that amount far exceeded his yearly allowance. However, Gan Pu refused to negotiate. Determined, Qing Cai decided he would seek help from his fellow beggars during his break.

Wang Yishao formally introduced himself to Qing Cai but avoided mentioning his true mission within the manor. Qing Cai, understanding the sensitive nature of their situations, didn’t press further, as his own reasons for being there were equally dubious and needed to remain a secret.

Qing Cai searched through all his fellow beggars, but collectively, they only had a small amount of money. Someone suggested opening a restaurant to generate a steady cash flow. Qing Cai thought it was a great idea, especially since he urgently needed to gather enough money to unlock the door and rescue his father.

One of the beggars mentioned that his mother was an excellent cook. The group followed him home, intending to learn her culinary skills. The beggar’s mother was immediately captivated by Qing Cai’s handsome appearance and refined demeanor. She couldn’t help but steal glances at him and even sent flirtatious looks when others weren’t paying attention. Even the beggar’s father got involved, offering to tutor them in the basics of cooking.

Gao Yin, dressed in her usual white attire and known for her aloof and cold demeanor, unexpectedly showed up at the beggar's house. She claimed to be skilled in seasoning and promised that with her specially crafted spices, any dish would turn out irresistibly aromatic.

At night, everyone gathered for a group cookout. Qing Cai noticed that the matron overseeing them, Hu Jiao, seemed to be in cahoots with Wang Yishao. At the same time, Wang Yishao observed that Qing Cai and Gan Pu didn’t seem particularly close, indicating that they probably didn’t know much about each other’s backgrounds. Meanwhile, the sharp-tongued and fiery Han Aizhen’s hostility toward Qing Cai was apparent, as if she had a deep-seated grudge against him.

The group egged on Qing Cai and Wang Yishao to dance together. These two men performed a supposedly enchanting dance, but their efforts ended up looking dull and lifeless. Hu Jiao, ever one to stir the pot, started making pointed comments, which Qing Cai and Wang Yishao tacitly ignored. Gan Pu also chuckled, teasing that their duet was awkward and mismatched.

The next day, Wang Yishao invited Qing Cai and Gan Pu for tea, hoping to probe into their reasons for coming to the manor. Over tea, Gan Pu shared her unique insights on life, offering advice on overcoming desires. She explained that most people’s anxiety stems from their inner desires. She admired those who find solace in nature, empathize with others' struggles, and find joy in collective happiness, thus leading carefree lives.

Wang Yishao was deeply impressed and sighed, remarking that life would be much simpler if everyone could be as enlightened as Gan Pu. Qing Cai, jealous of Wang Yishao’s fascination with Gan Pu, finally mustered the courage to ask her why she had come to the manor. Without hesitation, Gan Pu revealed her mission: to kill Yin Niang. Yin Niang was a highly skilled martial artist, and taking her down would not be easy.

Qing Cai admired Gan Pu’s decisiveness but felt self-conscious about his own lack of martial prowess. He resolved to avoid being a burden to her. Apart from eliminating Yin Niang, Gan Pu also needed to plan a successful escape. She and Qing Cai, under the guise of searching for food for Hu Jiao, secretly mapped out every corner of the manor. One night, as they sneaked out, they overheard a conversation ahead.

A maid was providing Yin Niang with crucial information: someone had entered the manor disguised as a woman. Yin Niang ordered her subordinates to conduct a thorough investigation. Wang Yishao also caught wind of this information. His instincts told him the rumor was likely true, but he hoped the suspect wasn’t who he feared. In reality, Yin Niang had deliberately leaked the news to test Wang Yishao, whose unique background suggested he had his own agenda in the manor.

Despite her suspicions, everyone remained under Yin Niang’s control. In her chamber, Yin Niang gracefully danced, confident that the secrets of the manor were as secure as ever. Hu Jiao’s cat seemed to be ill, looking lethargic every day. The group speculated whether someone had poisoned the cat but couldn’t identify any plausible suspects or motives. Hu Jiao then brought up another odd incident.

She claimed that after bathing with Gao Yin one evening, she discovered her clothes had been swapped with someone else’s. Confused, the group discussed possible culprits until Gan Pu diverted their attention by jokingly suggesting that it might have been Hong Hui. Hu Jiao, believing herself to be irresistible, decided to test this theory. She led a group of girls to Hong Hui’s room. Although he wasn’t there, Hu Jiao discovered her missing clothes in his room.

Not only that, but on his desk, she found a sketch of Qing Cai. Determined to get to the bottom of this, Hu Jiao decided to confront Hong Hui the next day. By now, Gan Pu had already figured out that Qing Cai was a man disguised as a woman. Knowing this, she became more cautious. Since they all shared a room, Gan Pu insisted that Qing Cai switch beds and move next to hers. This way, she could personally keep an eye on him and ensure that the reputation of the other girls wasn’t compromised.

At dawn, Qing Cai opened his eyes to find Gan Pu sound asleep in the crook of his arm. His arm ached from being pinned beneath her, and he tried to carefully pull it out, but his movement woke Gan Pu. She let out a startled cry, and the other women in the room, realizing it was just a minor issue, dismissed it as unimportant. After all, for two women to share a bed was hardly worth mentioning.

Later that day, Yin Niang entered the training room to observe. Wang Yishao stepped forward, volunteering to "test" a theory of his. He deliberately attempted to use his charm as a handsome man, walking toward Qing Cai with an intense, tender gaze. The room fell silent as everyone watched what Wang Yishao would do. But just as he approached Qing Cai, Qing Cai unexpectedly and naturally kissed him. The room erupted in shock.

Some who secretly admired Wang Yishao shouted insults, calling Qing Cai shameless and vulgar. However, Qing Cai stood there unfazed, his composure as unshakable as a fortress. The most astonished person was Wang Yishao himself—he never imagined Qing Cai would boldly kiss him like that. Among those affected was Hong Hui, who had once secretly admired Qing Cai. Seeing Qing Cai openly kiss Wang Yishao broke his heart.

Adding insult to injury, Hu Jiao, still upset over finding her clothes in Hong Hui's room the previous day, slapped him hard in front of everyone. Already heartbroken, Hong Hui now felt as though a torrential downpour had descended upon his inner world. Yin Niang had initially planned to have a makeup artist testify against Qing Cai, but the artist mysteriously disappeared overnight, leaving the matter unresolved.

That day, the Mingyi Manor granted everyone a day off, and Qing Cai and Gan Pu decided to spend the day together. Qing Cai caught up with his usual group of brothers and learned from them that the missing makeup artist had drunkenly revealed during a bet that he once dressed a burly man as a woman.

Fearing trouble, the brothers had taken it upon themselves to intimidate the artist, who, upon sobering up, decided to feign illness and remain in hiding to avoid further complications. Qing Cai clasped his hands in gratitude, realizing that it was thanks to his brothers' efforts that this crisis was averted. Gan Pu, seeing Qing Cai back in his male attire, couldn’t help but admire his dashing and commanding presence.

With his loyal followers by his side, she found him rather amusing. Beyond her bravery and sense of justice, Gan Pu had a gentle and warm personality, making her an endearing companion. As Qing Cai and Gan Pu strolled through the streets, Gan Pu finally opened up about her past. Her clan had once lived in peace, but Yin Niang had led an attack that wiped out her entire family. Only she and her uncle survived.

Later, her uncle passed away, and she swore an oath of vengeance. Now that Qing Cai and Gan Pu fully understood each other, Qing Cai felt truly happy to have found a friend. The two of them shared some stinky tofu, turning an ordinary snack into a memorable meal. Gan Pu casually asked Qing Cai if he would mind if she gained weight in the future. Without hesitation, Qing Cai replied that he absolutely would.

Gan Pu rolled her eyes at him in mock annoyance. After their meal, Gan Pu took Qing Cai to a fabric shop to have clothes tailored for him. She helped measure him closely, and the atmosphere between them grew subtly intimate. At first, the shopkeeper was arrogant, but upon realizing Qing Cai was ordering a custom night outfit, he quickly became cautious and deferential. Qing Cai and Gan Pu struggled to suppress their laughter.

On their way back to the manor, Qing Cai and Gan Pu encountered Gao Yin and Wang Yishao. The four of them were alone together, and Qing Cai noticed the way Gao Yin was looking at him. He whispered to Gan Pu that Gao Yin had likely figured out his true identity as a man. It turned out that Gao Yin and Wang Yishao were working together.

Qing Cai apologized to Wang Yishao, realizing that everyone in the manor had their own secret agenda. Gao Yin admitted that, as a healer, gender didn’t matter much to her. She explained that she knew Wang Yishao because she had once treated him for a serious rash, saving his life in a critical moment. Gao Yin openly shared her reason for being at the manor: she was here to save lives and stop the senseless killing.

Gan Pu and Qing Cai returned to the manor, intending to explore whether there were still any restricted areas nearby. Suddenly, the alarm bells sounded loudly. Gan Pu was surprised—neither she nor Qing Cai had touched anything that could trigger the alarm. It was clear someone was setting them up. Fortunately, Gan Pu had prepared in advance, digging several traps around the area. In one of the traps, they found a rabbit.

Han Aizhen arrived with the manor guards, looking smug. Qing Cai immediately guessed that it must have been Han Aizhen who triggered the alarm on purpose. Gan Pu explained to the guards that their reason for being there was purely to hunt. She added that Hu Jiao's cat had recently developed a voracious appetite, requiring them to hunt daily. Holding up the plump rabbit as evidence, along with their explanation, the guards had no reason to argue.

They even announced that the remaining restrictions around the manor would soon be lifted. Meanwhile, Hong Hui, still heartbroken over his unrequited feelings, was visibly downcast. Wang Yishao, who knew Qing Cai's true identity as a man, couldn’t bear to see Hong Hui in ignorance and gently advised him to move on, hinting that Qing Cai might not be the person he imagined. Hong Hui was confused and mistakenly thought that Wang Yishao had feelings for the same person as him.

Left with no choice, Wang Yishao confessed that he was interested in Gan Pu, whom he considered a rare pearl. However, Hong Hui dismissed her as nothing more than an ordinary grain of sand. Late at night, after the lights were out, Qing Cai tried several times to muster the courage to hold Gan Pu’s hand as he fell asleep but gave up each time. Unbeknownst to him, Gan Pu was awake.

She hugged her shoulders as she pretended to sleep, secretly aware of Qing Cai's hesitation. Though their hearts aligned, she too lacked the courage to reach out to him. The next morning, a martial arts training session was scheduled. The manor had invited a martial arts instructor named Liu Yiyi, who started by elaborating at length about the competition rules, detailing a seemingly endless list of guidelines.

Growing impatient, Hu Jiao shouted for a stop and stepped into the circle herself to demonstrate. Everyone had assumed the manor’s hired instructor would be formidable, but Hu Jiao effortlessly defeated Liu Yiyi in just two moves, knocking her out of the circle. The crowd was stunned, and even Wang Yishao marveled, wondering if the manor truly had no strong warriors left. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to gauge the scheming and motives hidden within the manor.

The manor organized one-on-one matches, with Yin Niang quietly observing from the sidelines. Strangely, many participants seemed hesitant, holding back and not showing their full strength. Qing Cai noticed that Han Aizhen was bullying Gan Pu and stepped forward to challenge her. The two seemed to harbor pent-up frustrations, and their duel stretched through several intense rounds before ending in a draw. The referee, Liu Yiyi, had intended for the participants to embody the spirit of a warrior.

However, seeing the students compromise and hold back, she was so overwhelmed with frustration that she fainted on the spot. Hu Jiao quickly helped the fainted Liu Yiyi up. Although Hu Jiao was known for her carefree and indulgent personality, she sympathized with Liu Yiyi’s fragile heart and considered her a genuinely kind soul. Through the competition, Han Aizhen and Gan Pu unexpectedly made amends, possibly because they found themselves "oddly alike.

" However, Han Aizhen couldn’t help but warn Gan Pu not to fully trust Qing Cai before understanding his true motives. Qing Cai immediately interrupted her, firmly declaring that he had already accepted Gan Pu as a true friend. No matter what happened in the future, he would never harm her. Elsewhere, two guards named Chunlan and Qiujv noticed Qing Cai, Gan Pu, and Han Aizhen acting suspiciously and prepared to question them.

Thinking quickly, Qing Cai stepped forward and put his persuasion skills to work. He jokingly asked the guards if they admired Wang Yishao and were perhaps jealous of him kissing Wang Yishao. Feigning innocence, Qing Cai claimed he felt pressured by his feelings for Wang Yishao and announced their "breakup," encouraging the guards to confidently pursue Wang Yishao themselves.

At night, Gan Pu took Qing Cai back to the manor to set more traps. This time, they were extra cautious, not only laying traps but also disguising themselves to ambush Han Aizhen. Caught off guard, Han Aizhen found herself with a sword pressed against her vital point and had no choice but to admit her purpose at the manor: she was there to save someone.

Since they shared a common goal, Qing Cai deliberately stretched his words, claiming he had developed a special poison that could help her overcome her difficulties. Surprisingly, Han Aizhen believed him. Hearing that they were short of ten taels of silver to purchase the necessary materials, she immediately offered to send her men to the kingdom to retrieve money. However, the journey was long, and just as Qing Cai was about to give up, Han Aizhen suddenly suggested an idea.

She mentioned seeing Hu Jiao's bag filled with silver and proposed finding a way to take it. Qing Cai quickly devised a plan. That night, he snuck back to the noodle shop run by his men and instructed them: if they saw the specific people he described buying skewers the next day, they should sprinkle Gan Pu's "poison" on the skewers. His men were stunned, thinking their boss intended to poison people in broad daylight.

Gan Pu quickly clarified that it wasn’t poison but her specially made chili powder. While extremely spicy, it was still edible. She explained that after eating the skewers, people would crave water, and they could sell expensive bowls of sweet dumplings—each bowl containing only one small dumpling. This way, their business would surely boom. ---The next day, Qing Cai pretended to casually take everyone out for a stroll, eventually leading them to the snack stall.

When Hu Jiao overheard someone calling the skewers "Deadly Skewers," she couldn’t resist the temptation and eagerly grabbed one. After just one bite, she was hooked. To liven up the atmosphere, Qing Cai and Gan Pu also started eating. Before long, the entire street was drawn in, with people clamoring to try the "Deadly Skewers. "Qing Cai's men jokingly named the delicious skewers "Poison," but Wang Yishao thought the name was too harsh.

He suggested calling them "Lover’s Tears," which sounded much more poetic. Qing Cai nodded in agreement and officially named the snack "Lover’s Tears. "The crowd’s enthusiastic praise attracted even more onlookers, and soon, a long line formed with people eager to buy the skewers. Hu Jiao, tasting such delicious food for the first time, quickly devoured ten skewers but still loudly complained that she wasn’t full. Word spread rapidly, and demand skyrocketed.

By the end of the day, the little snack shop was bustling with business. When they closed up that evening, Qing Cai’s men brought him the day’s earnings—a full ten taels of silver. Overjoyed, Qing Cai and Gan Pu realized they now had the funds needed to proceed with their plans. ---In the following days, Qing Cai and Gan Pu worked together to develop a mechanism to break the manor’s restrictions.

They divided their tasks: one tended the fire while the other sketched designs. Gan Pu explained the importance of concealed weapons like wrist-mounted dart launchers, emphasizing how such tools could serve both offensive and defensive purposes. Their new mechanism was small, discreet, and incredibly effective—practically a must-have for anyone. During their work, Qing Cai accidentally cut his hand, causing it to bleed. Gan Pu immediately leaned in and used her mouth to suck out the dirt.

Touched by her care, Qing Cai couldn’t help but ask why Gan Pu hadn’t chosen Wang Yishao. Gan Pu, amused, pretended to lift her chin and thoughtfully evaluated the question. She explained that since Wang Yishao was a prince with a noble status, he would inevitably take many concubines in the future, making it impossible for anyone to be his sole focus.

After careful consideration, she decided Qing Cai was a more practical choice: lowly in status, mediocre in martial arts, and perfectly suited to be her "little pet. "Qing Cai’s eyes widened in shock—so this was how Gan Pu saw him!

Qing Cai quietly listened to Gan Pu's thoughts and asked in a daze whether what she said was true or false. Gan Pu teasingly told him to guess. While she expected Qing Cai to be upset, he unexpectedly smiled and nodded, not refuting her opinion. Instead, he admitted that he might indeed be as foolish as she described, finding her critique quite on point.

The two walked back together and happened to run into the little girl they had dined with previously. This six- or seven-year-old girl, despite her young age, was precocious and cheekily asked if Gan Pu and Qing Cai being together would make her jealous. Ever since she won the "Lover’s Tears" eating contest, she believed herself to be the most dazzling girl in town.

Despite being in the company of adults, she showed no fear and boldly claimed she aspired to become the top courtesan when she grew up. Hearing her self-complimenting chatter, Qing Cai couldn’t help but marvel at how smart kids were these days. Qing Cai and Gan Pu joined their subordinates for a meal. The uncle and aunt hosting them were delighted, feeling their humble home was graced by Qing Cai’s presence.

Seeing such a handsome “woman,” the uncle couldn’t resist making inappropriate remarks, openly claiming that while he usually wouldn’t dare act improperly around women, today might be an exception. The aunt scolded him for his vulgarity. Meanwhile, a few workers gathered to discuss the booming business. Since profits had been excellent recently, they suggested Qing Cai distribute the earnings among everyone. Qing Cai appreciated their honesty, noting that they had already earned ten taels of silver last time.

He also mentioned that they needed to plan for the shop’s opening, including buying more pots, pans, and a food cart. Hearing their concerns, Gan Pu immediately proposed designing a new stove that could be integrated into the food cart, making it more convenient for street vending. Her suggestion was met with applause and approval from everyone.

One of the workers, Da Pang, mentioned that he had recently brewed some wild olive wine, which had a unique flavor but wasn’t well-received by many. Qing Cai suggested he bring the wine out for everyone to try. Excited, Da Pang fetched the jar from his home. The group sampled the wine, which was slightly sour yet refreshing.

Qing Cai thoughtfully suggested pairing the olive wine with "Lover's Tears," as the combination of salty and savory flavors could add an extra layer of profit. As the sun was about to set, Qing Cai and Gan Pu prepared to head back. Since there was still some time, they decided to take a bath to wash off the sweat from forging stoves and working hard all day. While bathing, they talked about their pasts.

Gan Pu confessed that as a child, she envied those with mothers who could play with their children on swings. Her own childhood was spent traveling the world with her uncle, learning skills and crafting crossbows. Qing Cai comforted her, assuring her that she need not worry. In the future, with companionship, they could do many things together. For instance, he could meet his father tonight, and he was confident that Gan Pu’s skills were unmatched.

Gan Pu went to bathe in the river first, followed by Qing Cai. Awkwardly, just as Qing Cai entered the water, his senior and junior martial sisters, along with Hu Jiao, arrived. Startled, Qing Cai quickly hid behind a large rock. Later that night, after all preparations were complete, Qing Cai, Gan Pu, and Han Aizhen set out to rescue Qing Cai’s father.

They used a weapon designed by Gan Pu to dismantle the lock’s mechanism and successfully opened the gate. Qing Cai rushed in to untie his father. Upon seeing his father again, Qing Cai’s father warned that he couldn’t escape because Yin Niang had planted a trap on him. He then revealed that they were not biologically related—Qing Cai was actually a prince, while Han Aizhen was his biological daughter.

He entrusted Han Aizhen with helping Qing Cai ascend to the throne. After passing on this vital information, he urged them to leave quickly. As the alarm bells rang, Qing Cai, Han Aizhen, and Gan Pu had no choice but to retreat immediately. Yin Niang, realizing someone had broken into the prison, launched an investigation into potential suspects.

However, Qing Cai, Gan Pu, and the others managed to escape quickly, sneaking back into their dormitory and pretending to be sound asleep. When the rooms were inspected later, everyone was present, and their alibi remained intact.

Han Aizhen and Qing Cai successfully escaped, and when Yin Niang's people arrived to search, they found nothing. Furious, they returned to interrogate Qing Cai's adoptive father. To protect Qing Cai, the adoptive father revealed that he was a loyal soldier of the general and that the one who had just come to rescue him was the prince.

Initially, Yin Niang didn’t believe him, but after hearing the detailed explanation of the events, she finally realized that the prince, who had been exiled to the frontier, had indeed arrived at the manor. Considering the political ties between the manor and the kingdom, Yin Niang immediately ordered her subordinates to treat the adoptive father’s injuries. When everything outside had quieted down, Han Aizhen went out alone. Worried, Qing Cai followed her.

Having just learned so many truths, he was still processing the fact that Han Aizhen was his adoptive sister. All their previous misunderstandings had now been resolved. Their father had even placed Han Aizhen’s hand in Qing Cai’s, entrusting her to escort the prince safely back to the kingdom. From that moment, the two became the closest of allies.

Now knowing Qing Cai’s true identity and realizing he was a man, Han Aizhen felt her feelings for him deepen, to the point that she asked to switch sleeping arrangements with Gan Pu that night. Meanwhile, Wang Yishao also heard about the breach of the barrier. In the current world, only the Mo Gate possessed the knowledge of such mechanisms, so it was clear that someone from the Mo Gate was behind it.

Yin Niang approached Wang Yishao to see if he had any guesses, but he withheld much of the information he had gathered. Upon learning that the soldier’s injuries were severe and that he might not survive, Wang Yishao immediately sent someone to help. Gao Yin, one of Wang Yishao’s people, was called to treat the injured soldier. Carrying her medical kit, she went out without hesitation.

As a disciple trained by a renowned master, she managed to stabilize the soldier with just a few needles, and he slowly regained consciousness. Outside, Han Aizhen, worried sick, waited anxiously. When Gao Yin returned with news that her father was out of danger, Han Aizhen finally felt at ease and expressed her deep gratitude to Gao Yin. That night was destined to be sleepless. Wang Yishao secretly called Qing Cai aside.

Mistakenly believing that Qing Cai was the one who dismantled the barrier, and assuming he was from the Mo Gate, Wang Yishao kindly warned him not to be deceived. He reminded Qing Cai that the Mo Gate was their enemy and urged him to choose his alliances wisely. Although Qing Cai didn’t fully understand Wang Yishao’s intentions, he knew that Wang Yishao’s people were secretly monitoring them. During their prison break, someone had indeed been following them.

Qing Cai wasn’t sure who it was, but it had to be either Hu Jiao or Gao Yin. Gao Yin was skilled in medicine, but her martial prowess remained unclear. Meanwhile, Hu Jiao, with her strong and sturdy physique and culinary talents, might also be hiding something. Qing Cai deduced from Wang Yishao’s honesty that he might actually be an enemy of Gan Pu.

Just a while ago, they had been holding hands, yet now he was grappling with the realization that they could be on opposing sides, which saddened him deeply. That same night, Gan Pu discovered Qing Cai’s secret—he was the prince. She also noticed how Han Aizhen seemed to harbor deep feelings for Qing Cai. Feeling dejected, she went out alone for some air. Qing Cai, worried about her, followed.

Han Aizhen, also feeling it necessary to protect him, joined as well. As they walked, it began to rain heavily, and the road became increasingly slippery. Qing Cai grew concerned for Gan Pu’s safety. As he feared, Gan Pu fell into a waterhole. Fortunately, Qing Cai noticed quickly and managed to rescue her before it was too late. Qing Cai was torn. Seeing Gan Pu suffer pained him, yet he couldn’t reveal the truth to her. He couldn’t help but wonder—if she ever learned that he was her enemy, how could they possibly face each other in the future?

When they were not attending lessons, Qing Cai, Gan Pu, Han Aizhen, Wang Yishao, and Gao Yin often sat together for tea. Although they engaged in lighthearted conversation, there was an undercurrent of tension among them. Surprisingly, Hong Hui, upon confirming Qing Cai’s "widow" status, prepared a bouquet of flowers to give to him. However, Han Aizhen refused to let Qing Cai accept gifts from anyone, promptly throwing the bouquet away.

After Qing Cai and Han Aizhen left the group, they discussed the relationships between the manor, Wang Yishao, and the prince. Based on Wang Yishao’s claim that the Mo Gate was his enemy, it seemed logical that the manor might also be opposed to Qing Cai. However, Yin Niang had released Qing Cai’s adoptive father and treated his injuries immediately upon learning that he knew the whereabouts of the late king’s prince. This hinted at deeper interests and connections.

The details of these connections were likely only known to the adoptive father, but no one could get close to him now. Qing Cai suggested that Han Aizhen find an excuse to meet with Yin Niang, gain a sliver of her trust, and use that to approach her father. This way, they could uncover more information. During their meeting, Yin Niang, aware of Han Aizhen’s connection to the general, specifically asked if she knew Mr. Shangshan.

Anticipating this, Qing Cai had shared some stories about Mr. Shangshan with Han Aizhen in advance. Although Mr. Shangshan was well-known in the martial world, Qing Cai, after spending several days with him, discovered that he was just a simple, childlike old man from the countryside. When Han Aizhen candidly described Mr. Shangshan as "just a countryside old man with a childlike heart," everyone laughed, thinking she was being bold. Only Yin Niang believed her.

She dismissed Han Aizhen, then ordered her subordinates to renovate the dormitories for some newly recruited maids. Since that night when Gan Pu saw Qing Cai’s adoptive father place his and Han Aizhen’s hands together, she had deliberately kept her distance. Qing Cai, understanding her feelings, also began reducing their interactions, especially after Wang Yishao suggested that their factions might be opposing forces. He wanted to spare Gan Pu unnecessary pain in the future.

One day, Wang Yishao openly expressed his feelings for Gan Pu by placing a fresh flower in her hair. Some laughed and teased him, saying he had given Gan Pu a white flower. Gao Yin explained that white symbolizes elegance and purity. However, Gan Pu removed the flower and handed it to Gao Yin, telling Wang Yishao honestly that she already had someone in her heart.

She added that she wasn’t suited for such a flower, as her experiences traveling far and wide had stripped her of the purity symbolized by white. Instead, she said Gao Yin was much better suited for it. Gan Pu’s meaning was clear, but Wang Yishao persisted, declaring that he would wait for her. He stated that his feelings were his own and had nothing to do with anyone else. Seeing his determination, Gan Pu no longer tried to dissuade him.

Gao Yin, though usually reserved, had witnessed the dynamics between Gan Pu and Qing Cai, and now with Han Aizhen involved, she empathized deeply with Gan Pu’s emotions. When they were alone, Gao Yin asked Gan Pu if she had found a way to cope with her feelings. Gan Pu responded that she had grown accustomed to the current situation. While it was hard to maintain a completely carefree attitude, she believed peaceful coexistence was achievable.

Seeing Gan Pu’s calm smile, Gao Yin felt reassured. Meanwhile, Zhang Fang, who often wandered the countryside discovering interesting items, visited Qing Cai’s restaurant. He became intrigued by the "Lover’s Tears" fruit wine and, after tasting it, found it delightful. He immediately paid for ten jars with shiny silver ingots. Bringing the fruit wine back to the manor, Zhang Fang shared it with Wang Yishao, who praised it highly after tasting it. "Good wine needs a discerning audience," he remarked.

Initially, when Qing Cai recommended this wine, it had few buyers. Now, it had gained popularity among the people of the manor, who were even willing to spend a fortune to order more.

Hong Hui gathered the trainee disciples for a lesson on disguise and concealment. Hu Jiao, donning a fake beard and dressed in a man’s battle armor while wielding a war blade, looked like Zhang Fei reincarnated at first glance. The trainee disciples each displayed their own creativity, but practicing indoors felt unsatisfying, so they all decided to head into the bustling market.

Hong Hui and the group, masked and in full disguise, attracted the attention of curious villagers who had never seen such a spectacle. Meanwhile, Qing Cai went to his shop to boost its business. The villagers noticed the group ordering "Lover’s Tears" grilled skewers and the signature fruit wine, "Lover’s Tears. " Many flocked to Qing Cai’s shop to try these items. While the grilled skewers were well-received, the wine’s unique taste was polarizing.

Qing Cai’s young assistant humorously claimed that the wine embodied the "taste of heartbreak," requiring patience and a refined palate to appreciate its nuances. Hearing this, a few villagers, intrigued by the poetic explanation, purchased several jars to impress those who typically looked down on them. Gan Pu picked up a skewer and reminisced about the first time she and Qing Cai had enjoyed this dish together, sharing a moment of carefree joy.

Now, things had taken such a divergent path. The name "Lover’s Tears" felt all too fitting. Whether it was the spice from the chili or her emotional state, tears welled up and streamed down her face. Han Aizhen, positioned between Qing Cai and Gan Pu, noticed their expressions and seemed to grasp something unspoken. What had once been two hearts united was now a complicated matter involving three.

Later, Gan Pu, drunk and emotional, ran into Qing Cai on her way back. Overwhelmed, she embraced him and cried uncontrollably. From afar, Hu Jiao and Hong Hui witnessed the tearful embrace. Hu Jiao widened her eyes and muttered, "Could it be that this 'Lover’s Tears' wine is just horse urine? How else could it trigger tears so quickly? "Gao Yin and Hu Jiao later shared a quiet tea together.

Gao Yin curiously asked if Hu Jiao suspected Hong Hui of being a master of concealment, possibly a hidden expert. Hu Jiao dismissed the idea, saying that Hong Hui led a life of indulgence, teaching occasional classes, drinking tea, and writing poetry. Someone so extroverted could hardly be a master of stealth. Gao Yin, shaking her head, replied, "Sometimes, true masters are those who conceal their brilliance the best.

"Han Aizhen, recognizing the depth of feelings between Qing Cai and Gan Pu, decided not to be a third wheel. She approached Qing Cai to tell him that she would step back from the triangle and let him and Gan Pu be together. Saying this revealed the magnitude of Han Aizhen’s character, as she had grown up hearing her father tell stories of Qing Cai.

Even though Qing Cai had no knowledge of Han Aizhen’s existence, nor that she harbored unspoken affection for him, Han Aizhen’s decision to end her own dreams felt like a death sentence to her. Before parting, Han Aizhen asked Qing Cai for a hug. Not knowing how to comfort her, Qing Cai cautiously hugged her and encouraged her to stay strong, promising to treat her like an older sister from then on.

Though heartbroken, Han Aizhen decided to bury her feelings deep inside, finding solace in wine and music. At dawn, Gan Pu stepped out of her room to find Qing Cai dozing against the wall outside, clearly having stayed up all night. Pretending as if nothing had happened, Gan Pu greeted him warmly, brushing off her emotional outburst from the previous night. She explained it away as drunken behavior and urged Qing Cai not to mind it, reminding him that their mission was what truly mattered.

In the morning, Han Aizhen approached Gan Pu to apologize. She admitted that she had been monopolizing Qing Cai’s attention and decided it was time to let Qing Cai return to her. Han Aizhen even offered to let Gan Pu reclaim her bed. Hu Jiao chimed in, complaining that ever since Han Aizhen started spending time with Qing Cai, she hadn’t gone hunting for ages, and even her pet cat had been missing its usual meat meals.

The weather had been pleasant these days, so the group decided to build a firewood shed and, while they were at it, add a small shelter for the cat. Wang Yishao and Hong Hui, seeing the women busy at work, rushed over to help.

From a distance, Zhang Fang observed these two young men—who normally wouldn’t even lift a finger for chores—struggling awkwardly, and couldn’t help but laugh, commenting that their efforts were akin to "burning qins to cook cranes," a waste of elegance. While working together, Wang Yishao accidentally hurt his finger. Gao Yin immediately rushed over to tend to him, carefully applying medicinal powder. However, Wang Yishao, who only had eyes for Gan Pu, seemed irritated by Gao Yin’s concern.

Gan Pu remained indifferent, which only fueled Qing Cai’s anxiety. He worried Wang Yishao might steal his chance to get closer to Gan Pu. Meanwhile, Wang Yishao couldn’t resist eavesdropping on a conversation between Qing Cai and Gan Pu. Shortly after, Qing Cai injured his own finger on a wooden splinter, letting out a startled cry.

He hoped Gan Pu might help him as she had in the past, but to his surprise, she stood coldly to the side, showing no intention of helping. Instead, it was Han Aizhen who came over, asking if Qing Cai was all right. Elsewhere, Yin Niang had her subordinates capture some of Qing Cai’s former underlings for questioning. She wanted to know if their leader had infiltrated the manor.

The young men all claimed ignorance, but when their answers were cross-examined, inconsistencies arose. A clever underling pointed out that their conflicting answers proved they hadn’t colluded to deceive anyone. Strangely enough, the guards believed this explanation. Yin Niang, determined to root out the manor’s traitor, ordered a morning training session, followed by afternoon classes.

Hu Jiao was confused by the sudden schedule change, but Han Aizhen explained that the afternoon classes were likely scheduled to avoid the harsh midday sun. In the afternoon, Hong Hui conducted a makeup class, customizing styles for everyone based on their individual temperament. For Hu Jiao, he applied thick, dark circles around her eyes, resembling a panda, and dressed her in a large black cloak.

Next, he styled Qing Cai as a flower fairy, adorning him with a flower crown and placing small floral decorations on his face. Qing Cai’s naturally cheerful face made the transformation even more striking—he looked almost otherworldly. Enchanted by the result, Hong Hui proclaimed that this was exactly the “goddess” of his dreams. For Han Aizhen, Hong Hui chose a heroic look, giving her the appearance of a warrior.

She wore a red hat with a veil, embodying a bold and mysterious vibe. Once everyone was ready, the group decided to head to the market to relax. Hu Jiao initially thought Hong Hui’s lesson was about concealment, but their elaborate disguises had the opposite effect. Instead of blending in, they quickly attracted a large crowd of curious onlookers wherever they went. The attention became so overwhelming that they couldn’t even enjoy a quiet tea or noodles.

Frustrated, Hu Jiao shooed the crowd away and led the group to a skewer stand to eat in peace. As the group settled in, a man at the market signaled to his accomplices to create a diversion. He had urgent information to relay to Qing Cai.

Today's makeup lesson brought Hua Gu along with the trainee disciples to the market. Yin Niang instructed Hua Gu to infiltrate their group and, if possible, uncover the reincarnated prince from a past life. This was Hua Gu's first time trying skewers, and she was instantly captivated by the spicy and numbing flavors. In her excitement over the food, she failed to notice that Qing Cai was not among the group. Qing Cai quickly regrouped with his subordinates.

Hearing from them that some had been captured and interrogated recently, he realized that someone in the manor was already suspicious of him. Han Aizhen quietly arrived as well, overheard the news, and planned to inquire whether it was someone from their network who had come looking. Meanwhile, Qing Cai’s makeup made him look stunning, drawing attention wherever he went. A few rugged mountain men were captivated by his beauty and planned to harass him, unaware of Qing Cai’s capabilities.

In just a few moves, he swiftly overpowered them. The thugs begged for mercy as Qing Cai sternly questioned whether their familiarity with such crimes came from committing too many. Desperate to escape, they began to expose each other’s misdeeds. One even admitted to forcing captives to endure public humiliation until they were driven to suicide. Enraged, Qing Cai mercilessly beat their leader. Yin Niang’s people observed silently from the shadows.

Han Aizhen, worried that Qing Cai’s identity might be exposed, watched cautiously. Fortunately, Yin Niang’s guards, all women, loathed such vile men and found satisfaction in seeing them punished. After Qing Cai left, the guards stepped in and executed the thugs with their swords. Meanwhile, Hua Gu, drunk and unrestrained, suddenly revealed shocking secrets in front of everyone.

She questioned whether they knew that the former prince was among them and disclosed that the destruction of the Mo Sect over a decade ago was the sin of the late king. She warned them to act carefully, now that the prince had fallen to such a lowly status. Her revelation left everyone stunned. Han Aizhen gripped her sword tightly, her gaze fixed on Qing Cai, ready to kill Wang Yishao at any moment. Gan Pu observed everyone’s reactions closely.

Both Wang Yishao and Hong Hui appeared genuinely shocked by the secret, indicating they had no prior knowledge of the prince’s identity or the late king’s role in destroying the Mo Sect. Their emotions became even more conflicted upon learning that Qing Cai’s kingdom had annihilated the Mo family. Gao Yin approached Qing Cai and subtly cautioned him to stay calm.

Wang Yishao’s men, their hands on their sword hilts, were also on edge, but it wasn’t the time to reveal their hostility. Qing Cai signaled to Han Aizhen not to act rashly, while Gao Yin advised everyone to stop jumping to conclusions and suggested they return to the manor. When Yin Niang heard about Hua Gu drunkenly spilling the secret, she was furious and immediately punished Hua Gu with three months of confinement.

With the secret now exposed, Yin Niang resolved to locate the prince’s hiding place as quickly as possible. That night, sleeplessness plagued many. Wang Yishao, Gao Yin, Hu Jiao, and Hong Hui gathered to discuss the clues they had pieced together so far. They confirmed that Qing Cai was not part of the Mo family. Hong Hui, realizing this, admitted that he had been blinded by his emotions, as he had always assumed Qing Cai belonged to that side.

Gao Yin then shared her observation that Gan Pu was skilled at dismantling restrictions and traps. She even recounted seeing Gan Pu expertly dismantle mechanisms within the manor, displaying a level of proficiency that suggested formal training.

Wang Yishao and Gao Yin were deep in thought. When someone revealed that the former king was the one who annihilated the Mo family, Qing Cai and Han Aizhen both glanced at Gan Pu. Their expressions were very telling, suggesting something deeper between them. Wang Yishao and Gao Yin were unsure of the dynamics between Qing Cai, Han Aizhen, and Gan Pu—perhaps their collaboration was encountering issues.

Meanwhile, Hu Jiao saw this as a perfect opportunity to sow discord among them. On the other side, Qing Cai, Han Aizhen, and Gan Pu sat by the campfire, reflecting on the events of the day. The atmosphere was awkward for all of them. Han Aizhen reminded Qing Cai that the grievances between their ancestors should not be carried on by their generation. Gan Pu remained silent, leaving Qing Cai worried that their friendship might be in jeopardy.

Ever since Gao Yin had once saved Han Aizhen’s father, Han Aizhen had shown her more respect. Now that both sides suspected the truth about each other’s identities, Gao Yin frankly stated that the past should be left in the past. If their missions required them to stand on opposing sides in the future, she would not let past gratitude cloud her judgment. Later, Han Aizhen saw Gao Yin playing chess and couldn’t resist approaching her for a chat.

Although she knew that Gao Yin had disclosed Gan Pu’s Mo family lineage to Wang Yishao, she wasn’t upset. After all, Wang Yishao was bound to find out eventually; it was only a matter of time. Qing Cai, upon returning, personally made a swing for Gan Pu. He jokingly said that he wanted her to remember that there was once a boy who built her a swing with his own hands so that she would never envy anyone else.

Sitting on the swing, Gan Pu knew that Qing Cai must have heard her childhood story about envying those who had mothers to play on swings with them. Now, someone was by her side, giving her the same experience. Her eyes reddened with emotion, and although Qing Cai smiled beside her, his eyes were also teary. From a distance, Hu Jiao and Gao Yin observed the scene. They found themselves touched by the emotions between Qing Cai and Gan Pu.

Hu Jiao remarked how unpredictable life was—those who vowed not to love would still get entangled in emotions and heartbreak. Gao Yin commented that having feelings and loyalty is human nature, while being completely detached would be the realm of immortals. Meanwhile, Yin Niang did not sit idly. She ordered her subordinates to track down the former prince’s followers one by one. In town, she captured a few individuals for questioning.

Later, she visited Qing Cai’s adoptive father, demanding to know if he was acquainted with Han Aizhen. Aware of Yin Niang’s ruthlessness, Qing Cai’s adoptive father deliberately avoided answering her questions. Late that night, Gan Pu had another nightmare about the Mo family’s tragic annihilation by the former king. Tormented by the memories, she spent the entire night thinking it over. At dawn, she packed her belongings, preparing to leave the manor.

Qing Cai called out to her as she walked away. He wanted to stop her, yet he genuinely wished for her happiness. He confessed that maybe she would feel better if she hated him. He also admitted that he wasn’t as good as she thought he was. While he wanted her to find someone better, Gan Pu asked if he meant Wang Yishao. Qing Cai immediately denied it, saying he wasn’t that selfless.

He admitted he liked her but couldn’t bear to see her suffer. He wanted her to stay but feared he might end up hurting her. Torn and conflicted, Qing Cai watched as Gan Pu left with her belongings. That morning, Hong Hui spotted the swing and excitedly ran over to play on it.

However, Hu Jiao stopped him, explaining that she had seen Qing Cai personally make the swing for Gan Pu the night before and believed it carried a meaningful story. With righteous conviction, she forbade Hong Hui from using the swing. Red Sleeve, one of Yin Niang’s agents, summoned Han Aizhen. She informed her that Qing Cai’s adoptive father had agreed to meet her. Upon seeing her father, Han Aizhen was overwhelmed with emotion.

Relieved to see him receiving medical care, she finally felt reassured. Her father admitted that he had indeed been involved in the Mo family massacre, explaining that, as a death warrior, he had no choice but to follow orders, as long as he drew breath. Meanwhile, Gan Pu left the manor and wandered to the market where she had once visited with Qing Cai. Unbeknownst to her, Wang Yishao had followed.

After meeting her father, Han Aizhen revealed the nature of their relationship to Hong Xiu. Hong Xiu immediately deduced that Han Aizhen must be a hostage. Without a hostage, higher-ups would not have entrusted Qing Cai’s father with such critical information or granted him the freedom to come and go. Han Aizhen did not deny it.

Although she wasn’t entirely certain if she was truly a hostage, she recalled being confined to a woodshed as a child, trained in martial arts by a master. To her, this didn’t exactly feel like being a hostage. Hong Xiu took Han Aizhen to see Yin Niang. Upon entering, they found her dancing gracefully alone in the room, which surprised Han Aizhen.

Hong Xiu explained that while Yin Niang had a reputation in the outside world as the “Emotionless Mistress,” apart from her martial arts skills and preference for solitude, she was still just like any ordinary woman, with her own loves and hates. Meanwhile, Gan Pu strolled through the market with Wang Yishao. Every corner they passed reminded her of Qing Cai, leaving her both nostalgic and bittersweet.

At a stall selling sachets, she suddenly remembered how the shopkeeper once told her that sachets were typically bought by women to gift to men. Regretting that she hadn’t given one to Qing Cai back then, she decided to buy one now. Beside her, Wang Yishao expressed envy. Though born into wealth, he had never received such a token from someone he loved and longed for the simple joys of an ordinary life.

At a skewer stall selling “Lover’s Tears,” Qing Cai arrived just in time to witness a scene unfold. The young helpers at the stall recognized that someone seemed to be pursuing their “boss’s woman. ” To tease him, they asked if he really wanted ten skewers, warning that their rule required anyone unable to finish them to shout “I’m not a man” in public. Wang Yishao, provoked by the challenge, ordered ten skewers out of pride.

However, after only one skewer, the intense spice overwhelmed him. Determined to maintain his dignity, he endured the fiery pain and finished all ten skewers. Later in the morning, the manor hosted another makeup class. This time, Hong Hui encouraged everyone to embrace their true nature by dressing as the opposite gender. This idea excited the group, as many of the women had already mastered disguising themselves as men for convenience during missions.

Hong Hui, intrigued, asked everyone to practice their everyday makeup in these disguises. Hu Jiao, with her tall and burly figure, dressed as a man and appeared even more rugged than most men. Qing Cai, on the other hand, exuded an elegant charm in his male disguise, drawing everyone’s attention. To avoid suspicion, Qing Cai humorously mimicked Hu Jiao’s walking style. When Gan Pu returned to the manor, Qing Cai was secretly shocked.

In private, he immediately questioned why she had come back, warning her that multiple eyes were watching him, and staying here would only increase the danger. Gan Pu calmly replied that the safest place was often the most dangerous. She had thought things through and decided to return to the manor to continue her mission. This time, she appeared much closer to Wang Yishao.

Previously, she had always found him aloof and prideful, but their trip to the market had changed her impression of him. Now, the two were finally able to talk freely. Gan Pu even suggested they address each other as siblings in the future. Qing Cai, who had initially felt that he and Gan Pu were growing closer, felt as though a bucket of ice water had been dumped over him upon hearing her suggestion. The chill ran straight through him.

Meanwhile, Hong Hui was still lamenting Qing Cai’s apparent affection for Wang Yishao. Zhang Fang, unable to bear his naivety any longer, revealed to him that Qing Cai was, in fact, a man. This revelation shattered Hong Hui’s worldview. He had always thought of Qing Cai as just another sister, eating, sleeping, and even bathing with the other women. Learning that Qing Cai was one of his own kind left him in utter shock. When he also learned that many of the trainee disciples had already suspected Qing Cai’s true identity, Hong Hui fled home in a panic.

Gao Yin was chatting with Qing Cai, surprised that he could remain so calm, hunting and enjoying the scenery at the manor. Qing Cai smiled and remarked that since his adoptive father was no longer in danger, and for now, everyone’s lives were secure, he saw no reason to worry about the court’s gossip. He had chosen to take things one step at a time. Gao Yin thought Qing Cai’s mindset was much purer than those sitting in the court.

After all, how many emperors in history truly ruled with the people’s interests at heart? Meanwhile, Gan Pu and Wang Yishao were having tea together. Since neither party was an enemy, Gan Pu decided to ask Wang Yishao about his mission at the manor. Wang Yishao admitted that the king had originally ordered him to kill a certain person on sight, but he still wasn’t sure if he could carry out the task.

When Gan Pu asked him what he would choose, Wang Yishao remained undecided and didn’t reveal his true thoughts to her. Han Aizhen and Hu Jiao, out hunting, had no luck catching anything despite their efforts. Frustrated, they returned empty-handed. When Han Aizhen overheard Gan Pu and Wang Yishao having tea, she immediately called out to Gan Pu, urging her to intervene and disrupt Wang Yishao’s plans. Hong Hui, visibly shaken and distraught, stormed back to the manor.

Upon seeing Qing Cai, he felt a surge of anger and was on the verge of publicly revealing Qing Cai’s secret. However, when he noticed Qing Cai’s anxious expression, he softened and swallowed his words, walking away instead. This left only Gao Yin and Wang Yishao to discuss their next steps. Gan Pu had accidentally left her sachet on her seat, so Wang Yishao asked Gao Yin to return it to her.

Gao Yin, knowing that Gan Pu wanted to form a sibling bond with Wang Yishao, decided not to give the sachet directly to him. Gao Yin, who had feelings for Wang Yishao, gave him her own sachet instead. To her surprise, Wang Yishao took both sachets to Gan Pu. He intentionally handed Gao Yin’s sachet back to her, instructing her to return it to Gan Pu, while he tied Gan Pu’s sachet to his waist.

Gao Yin, furious, called him shameless and accused him of emotional manipulation. Since Gan Pu wasn’t paying close attention, she didn’t notice the sachet switch. When Han Aizhen later saw Wang Yishao wearing Gan Pu’s sachet, she mistakenly assumed that the two had become romantically involved. All day, she spoke to Gan Pu with a sarcastic tone. This misunderstanding spread to Qing Cai, who also began doubting Gan Pu.

Gao Yin, being straightforward, quickly returned the sachet to Gan Pu, leaving Wang Yishao embarrassed and wishing he could disappear. That evening, everyone gathered around the bonfire. Hong Hui, who had spent the afternoon running aimlessly to relieve stress, returned utterly exhausted. As he slumped to the ground, Hu Jiao, unable to resist, gave him a playful kick. To her shock, Hong Hui fainted on the spot.

Gao Yin quickly checked his pulse and reassured everyone that he was just overly fatigued and not seriously hurt. Despite his weakened state, Hong Hui still had to endure Hu Jiao’s boisterous care. Feeling guilty, Hu Jiao took it upon herself to look after him that night. Poor Hong Hui, heartbroken and now in Hu Jiao’s care, could hardly catch a break. He refused to eat, but Hu Jiao insisted he roast fish.

He didn’t want to drink medicine, but Hu Jiao forcefully poured it down his throat. At his wit’s end, Hong Hui suggested going outside for fresh air. Wary of him trying to escape, Hu Jiao tied his hands with a rope and walked him like a pet. Gan Pu and Han Aizhen, watching from a distance, couldn’t help but pity Hong Hui.

Hong Hui, ever since discovering that the woman he loved was actually a man, found his worldview completely shattered. He wandered around in a daze every day. Feeling guilty for knocking him to the ground earlier, Hu Jiao took it upon herself to care for him. Worried that Hong Hui might harm himself, she tied his hands with a rope and led him around for walks.

After a long night of wandering, Hong Hui, overwhelmed by heartbreak, ended up losing his memory. Surprisingly, he even stopped fearing the feisty Hu Jiao. The next morning, under the fresh, crisp breeze, Zhang Fang took the manor's disciples to a nearby water source to practice playing music. Each person was given an instrument they were skilled at. Wang Yishao, as the music instructor, personally guided everyone in their technique.

Seeing Hu Jiao’s strength, Wang Yishao assigned her to practice drumming. Zhang Fang, who was usually seen carrying a wine jug and proclaiming himself a "wanderer of the martial world," played the guqin with remarkable finesse. Under Wang Yishao’s direction, the group quickly performed an ensemble piece that was both impressive and harmonious. Thrilled by their success, everyone became even more enthusiastic about their lessons.

Wang Yishao noticed Gan Pu struggling to master the erhu and decided to teach her personally. Qing Cai, watching from the side, could barely hide his jealousy. Meanwhile, Gao Yin, playing the guzheng with a clear mind, performed a flowing and serene melody. Qing Cai was surprised by Zhang Fang’s ability to create beautiful music without using any sheet music. When Qing Cai expressed his curiosity about Zhang Fang’s background, Gao Yin admitted she didn’t know much either.

Qing Cai, now more composed, shared his philosophy: “If you hesitate to act when you must, it will only lead to chaos. I’ve learned to let things take their natural course. ”Zhang Fang, usually carefree, offered Han Aizhen some profound insights while guiding her on the subtleties of rhythm. He asked her if she could feel the delicate emotions conveyed by the instrument, explaining that only by grasping these emotions could one truly understand the essence of life.

It was the first time Han Aizhen had encountered such profound reasoning. She began to look at Zhang Fang in a new light. Zhang Fang concluded that while the teachers here only imparted superficial skills, true mastery lay in perception and understanding. Elsewhere, Wang Yishao and Gan Pu were practicing together. During their time at the manor, Wang Yishao had grown increasingly uncertain about his mission.

Seeing Hong Xiu watching over their training from afar, he shared his confusion with Gan Pu. He reflected that Hong Xiu reminded him of his younger self, someone who gained trust and recognition through unshakable resolve. Wang Yishao now understood that Qing Cai was the son of the former king. He also realized that Gan Pu deeply loved Qing Cai. His original mission had been to kill Gan Pu, but now he found himself hesitating.

In truth, Wang Yishao had long suspected Qing Cai’s true identity but had refrained from acting, largely due to Gan Pu and the manor. Meanwhile, Hong Hui and Hu Jiao practiced drumming together. Hu Jiao, proud of her strength, refused to strike the drum lightly, even when the situation called for it. Hong Hui gently advised her to adjust her intensity depending on the rhythm, but Hu Jiao, used to doing things her own way, was unwilling to change.

Later, Wang Yishao returned Gan Pu’s sachet to her. Seeing his trust, Gan Pu did not hide her determination to rescue Qing Cai, even at the cost of her own life. Wang Yishao was deeply shocked. He had never understood why some people were willing to sacrifice themselves for the sake of others, but Gan Pu’s unwavering conviction left no room for doubt. Gan Pu gave her sachet to Qing Cai, resolving the misunderstandings between them.

With the air cleared, Qing Cai and Gan Pu were able to set aside their differences completely. Wang Yishao also learned that Gao Yin had long been aware of Qing Cai’s identity. With this knowledge, he entrusted Gao Yin with the task of ensuring Gan Pu’s safety at all costs.

Wang Yishao, unwilling to accept that the woman he loved was with Qing Cai, decided to challenge Qing Cai to a duel atop the mountain. However, he was no match for Qing Cai. When Qing Cai called for a pause in the fight, Wang Yishao resorted to a sneak attack, nearly causing Qing Cai to fall off the cliff. Thanks to his exceptional light-footed skills, Qing Cai managed to leap back onto the peak from the cliff's edge.

The two resumed their battle, and once again, Wang Yishao was no match. If not for Qing Cai catching him in time, Wang Yishao would have fallen into the abyss. Frustrated, Wang Yishao tried a trick by shouting, “Look out behind you! ” and then struck Qing Cai on the head. Qing Cai ended up with a nosebleed but couldn’t help laughing, amused by Wang Yishao’s use of deception. Their fight now seemed evenly matched.

Qing Cai grinned mischievously and warned Wang Yishao about a snake behind him. At first, Wang Yishao didn’t believe him but, trusting Qing Cai in the absence of Gao Yin, grew wary of being bitten by a venomous snake. Ultimately, he let his guard down, only for Qing Cai to slap him across the face. Meanwhile, Han Aizhen prepared to deliver a message to her tribe. Reluctant to leave, she implored Gan Pu to protect Qing Cai.

Gan Pu reassured her that she would guard her man with all her strength. After bidding farewell to Han Aizhen, Gao Yin reminded her to avoid letting emotions cloud her judgment, especially with the various factions stirring in the shadows. Zhang Fang joined the conversation between Qing Cai and Wang Yishao. Qing Cai couldn’t understand how someone like Wang Yishao could live so carefreely. Wang Yishao admitted that his comfortable life was only possible because others continually supported him.

Zhang Fang, known as an enigmatic figure, had turned down numerous invitations to serve as a strategist, preferring to stay free of entanglements. Hong Xiu intercepted Han Aizhen on her way out and deliberately asked her where she was rushing off to. Sensing Han Aizhen’s concern, Hong Xiu pointed out that her demeanor hardly matched the composure of someone engaged in espionage. She advised Han Aizhen to maintain a calm and unreadable expression to avoid exposing her true intentions.

As everyone became absorbed in their respective tasks, they left their instruments by the stream. Hu Jiao immediately called them back. Meanwhile, after being probed by Hong Xiu, Han Aizhen accidentally revealed that Qing Cai was the son of the former king. Later, when Han Aizhen returned to see her father, she found him safe. Her father, upon seeing her, realized that the manor had deceived her.

At such a critical time, how could they allow her to leave to see him? Her father urged Han Aizhen to find the general immediately, warning that Qing Cai was in danger. With tears in her eyes, Han Aizhen bid her father farewell, grateful that Hong Xiu allowed her to descend the mountain to search for the general. Around the same time, Hong Hui hurriedly warned Qing Cai that the people in the manor had discovered his true identity.

Before long, the gang of small-time thugs stationed outside the manor learned that their leader was in danger. They began positioning themselves around the manor, ready to rescue Qing Cai at a moment’s notice. Qing Cai went directly to Yin Niang to confront her about her true intentions. He explained that his only reason for staying at the manor was to save his adoptive father. Yin Niang smiled faintly and advised him not to act rashly.

She cautioned that young people often fail to see the bigger picture and that while she could tolerate his actions once or twice, her patience wouldn’t last forever. Qing Cai finally met his adoptive father and recounted his experiences at the manor. Hearing this, his adoptive father, sensing his life was nearing its end, shared the decades-old story of the conflict between the Mohist sect and the manor. Later, Gao Yin asked Wang Yishao about the night’s potential events.

She had just seen Gan Pu donning black nightwear. Wang Yishao warned her against being overly idealistic, always hoping to find balance or prevent tragedies. He explained that this was often unattainable. Gao Yin, though aware of this harsh reality, vowed to minimize the casualties that might occur.

Late at night, someone wearing a mask launched an arrow attack on Yin Niang. The guards of the manor immediately began capturing the culprit. At the same time, Qing Cai was by his adoptive father’s side. Hearing the commotion and the order to apprehend someone, he sensed trouble. Soon, Gan Pu was captured alive, and Qing Cai rushed out, pulling Gan Pu to his side. The trainee disciples also rushed to the scene upon hearing the commotion.

Gao Yin quickly attended to Yin Niang’s injuries and instructed Hu Jiao to fetch her medical kit. Hu Jiao, who was usually playful and talkative, surprisingly stood up for Qing Cai and even demanded that the others release him. Hong Xiu, standing nearby, warned Qing Cai not to act impulsively. The guards were shouting to execute Gan Pu to avenge Yin Niang.

Qing Cai took Gan Pu to his adoptive father, who then revealed the truth about the tragedy that had destroyed the Mohist sect years ago. Years ago, someone reported to the Mingyi Manor about bandits kidnapping women. Yin Niang led a group to resolve the issue. At the same time, the former king ordered another group of soldiers to raid the Mohist sect. They killed everyone except the Mohist leader and then withdrew.

By the time the Mingyi Manor returned after handling their matter, the massacre had already occurred. The former king, convinced that Mingyi Manor was responsible, accused them of the crime. As a result, Mingyi Manor had endured years of unjust humiliation without defending themselves. Gan Pu, unable to understand why Mingyi Manor would bear such injustice in silence, grew furious.

Qing Cai’s adoptive father speculated that the sudden death of the former king might also be related to Mingyi Manor and that their quest for revenge had never ceased—they simply acted in silence. Gan Pu, enraged, realized that the mastermind behind it all was the general supporting Qing Cai and his adoptive father. After learning the truth, Gan Pu felt deeply guilty upon hearing about Yin Niang’s severe injuries.

Hong Xiu issued an order for them to leave, declaring Qing Cai an enemy who could no longer stay. However, Qing Cai insisted on staying to protect Gan Pu. Hong Xiu warned him that if they didn’t leave now, neither of them would be allowed to stay. Elsewhere, Wang Yishao and Gao Yin learned that Qing Cai and Han Aizhen had been sent out of the manor, escorted by trainee disciples.

Realizing that the prince of the former king had left, they felt their presence in the manor was now pointless. Gao Yin suggested they wait until the next day to report to their superiors, ensuring that the night’s events wouldn’t be blamed on them. That night, Gan Pu awoke from a nightmare, terrified, and knocked anxiously on the door. A familiar voice reassured her—it was Qing Cai! He had secretly returned, worried about her safety.

He had begged Hong Xiu for permission to stay, and she allowed him to remain in the manor under strict conditions: he could only hide in the woodshed during the day and approach Gan Pu’s confinement room at night to talk to her. Hong Xiu reminded Qing Cai that Wang Yishao and Gao Yin had already quietly left that morning. She suggested he leave quickly to avoid assassination attempts. Qing Cai, however, refused. He had no desire to become king.

He understood that ascending the throne would inevitably lead to bloodshed, something he deeply wished to avoid. He only wanted to stay by Gan Pu’s side, no matter what fate awaited him. His resolve moved Hong Xiu, who, surprised by his clarity, granted him free access within the manor. Qing Cai asked Hong Xiu for cooking tools, wanting to personally prepare delicious meals for Gan Pu. She agreed.

While Gan Pu remained in her confinement room, Qing Cai busied himself gathering fresh flowers outside to brighten her spirits. Back and forth he ran, collecting flowers. Seeing this, Hong Hui took it upon himself to help Qing Cai, gathering large bundles of flowers for him each time. Qing Cai admitted the flowers were for Gan Pu, but Hong Hui claimed his flowers were also for her.

When Gan Pu eventually decorated the walls with flowers, Qing Cai went to thank Hong Hui. To his embarrassment, Hong Hui jokingly declared his bouquet was actually for Qing Cai. Blushing, Qing Cai had to once again clarify that he was a man. Realizing the awkwardness, Hong Hui quickly amended his words, saying the flowers were for Gan Pu after all.

Later, when Qing Cai brought Gan Pu a meal he had prepared, she mentioned missing the roasted meat he used to make. Just as Qing Cai hesitated, unsure how to fulfill her request, Hong Hui appeared with a freshly hunted rabbit and seasonings. Qing Cai was deeply grateful, but Hong Hui simply replied that he was happy to do something for them.

When Qing Cai was roasting meat for Gan Pu, he noticed the guards Chunlan and Qiujü nearby, eyeing the food hungrily. Unable to resist their expressions, he invited them to join. Chunlan and Qiujü, having witnessed Qing Cai’s genuine care for Gan Pu, were deeply moved. They remembered how Qing Cai once shared the rabbits he hunted with them. Touched by his kindness, the two guards gradually became his friends.

Once the meat was cooked, Qing Cai gave each guard a skewer before bringing some for Gan Pu. Standing outside her door, Qing Cai passed the food to Gan Pu, who watched his efforts through the crack in the door. Her eyes welled with tears at his devotion. After ensuring Gan Pu finished eating, Qing Cai heard her say she didn’t want to sleep. He reached his hand through the door to hold hers.

The guards, unable to bear their separation, opened the door, allowing Qing Cai and Gan Pu to be together. Finally able to spend time together, Qing Cai and Gan Pu embraced, crying over their uncertain future. They cherished every moment they had, not knowing what lay ahead. Gan Pu fell asleep in Qing Cai’s arms, pushing aside thoughts of the consequences they faced.

Meanwhile, Hong Hui continued to send wild chickens and rabbits from his hunts, which the guards delivered to them. One day, when the guards opened the door to deliver the food, they saw Qing Cai and Gan Pu peacefully asleep together. The guards asked Qing Cai to come outside to roast the meat but refused to let Gan Pu leave. Qing Cai then asked, “Would a rabbit eat a chicken? ” Confused, the guards replied, “Of course not.

” Qing Cai used this analogy to explain that, even if he and Gan Pu were allowed into the courtyard, they wouldn’t escape. They had no desire to separate, even for a minute, and with the manor heavily guarded, fleeing was impossible. Persuaded by Qing Cai’s eloquence, the guards relented, letting Gan Pu join him. Together, they prepared meals and roasted meat. Tragedy struck when Yin Niang passed away. This meant that Gan Pu now had to face judgment.

The manor guards separated Qing Cai from her and took him away. Gao Yin, reflecting on Yin Niang’s injuries, recalled her earlier diagnosis. Yin Niang had been gravely wounded in a critical area, and if she hadn’t turned slightly at that moment, she wouldn’t have survived the night. Gao Yin had also received a covert order from her superiors: she was to poison Qing Cai. With Yin Niang gone, the pressure to complete this mission intensified.

Qing Cai and Gan Pu were taken to a hidden chamber by the manor guards. There, Hong Xiu revealed that Wang Yishao had contacted them earlier, saying the king would soon arrive with reinforcements. When that time came, they would cooperate to stage a performance for the king. Hong Xiu then admitted that she was also a survivor of the Mohist sect.

She explained that when Yin Niang returned to the Mohist camp to rescue survivors, she saved many widows and orphans, who were later well cared for. Hong Xiu also revealed that the former king’s death had been orchestrated by Yin Niang herself. Hearing this, Gan Pu realized that members of the Mohist sect had been by her side all along. Hong Xiu further shared that before her death, Yin Niang had decreed that Gan Pu be spared.

Additionally, based on recent intelligence, the messages Wang Yishao had received were likely false. The current king was not as ruthless as they thought. Years ago, when someone suggested wiping out Mingyi Manor, the king ultimately decided against it after weighing his options. With this information, everyone awaited the king’s arrival to resolve the matter. The following days passed peacefully. Han Aizhen, Hu Jiao, and Hong Hui passed the time by playing music together. Despite their calm exteriors, tension lingered. Several factions were present, and no one knew which side would ultimately prevail.

Gan Pu was not punished, but now the most dangerous situation lay with Qing Cai. Several factions wanted Qing Cai dead. To protect him, Gan Pu set up numerous traps and defenses around the manor to safeguard her beloved. Qing Cai brought Gan Pu, Chunlan, and Qiujü back to his former home. The local rascals he had once protected often stopped by to visit. This time, Qing Cai brought along some meat and game from his hunts.

His foster mother personally taught him how to cook, guiding him through a variety of dishes. When they finally sat down to a table full of delicious food, Chunlan and Qiujü couldn’t resist and started eating. To their surprise, the dishes were much better than anything they’d ever had at the manor. That evening, everyone ate together.

Gan Pu expressed how much she loved this place, wishing they could spend the rest of their lives here—no wars, no hatred, just the two of them sharing three meals a day. Under the moonlight, Qing Cai and Gan Pu leaned into each other. Yet, they both knew such a peaceful life was a luxury. Soon, the king would summon his people to the manor for judgment, and no one could predict if there would be a happy ending.

Meanwhile, Hong Hui, Hu Jiao, Gao Yin, and Wang Yishao gathered together. They asked Wang Yishao if he truly intended to proceed with their plan. After spending so much time with Qing Cai, they all felt he was harmless and innocent, making the thought of taking action against him hard to bear. Hong Hui was especially heartbroken. Once, he had dreamed of Qing Cai as his lover.

Over time, he worked to see him as only a friend, but now being forced to view him as an enemy seemed impossible. Elsewhere, Zhang Fang was teaching Han Aizhen how to play the guzheng. The two had grown closer, and Zhang Fang, who was usually carefree, now enjoyed spending more time with Han Aizhen. He admired her musical talent and spiritual insight. Facing the uncertainty ahead, Zhang Fang advised her not to overthink.

He urged her to fully embrace the present, whether in peace or peril. Hong Hui originally went out for a walk with Hu Jiao, but he quickly grew tired of her constant chatter and made an excuse to slip away. Left on her own and bored, Hu Jiao unknowingly wandered back to the spot where she had once eaten skewers with Qing Cai and the others. For her, enjoying skewers there seemed to make all her worries disappear.

Qing Cai was feasting with enthusiasm, and his hearty enjoyment caught the attention of two wandering martial artists. They joined him at the skewer stand, unable to resist, and ordered some skewers for themselves. Qing Cai’s bold and carefree eating style left one of the martial artists utterly charmed. The two quickly struck up a conversation, and in high spirits, one of them offered to buy some wine. Qing Cai suggested they try a local specialty known as “Lover’s Tears.

”When the wine was served, the martial artist took one sip and immediately grimaced, his face contorted in exaggerated disgust. Hu Jiao couldn’t help but laugh; she also thought the wine tasted terrible. Yet her friends always claimed it was incomparably sweet, even saying it carried the “fragrance of the wilderness. ” Hu Jiao sarcastically remarked that the wilderness was full of unpleasant odors, and she couldn’t imagine any fragrance coming from it.

Back at the manor, Hong Xiu discovered that He Gu and several other manor guards had been poisoned. The culprit’s skill was evident, suggesting it might be Ding Lao Xie or his descendants. Outside the manor, Han Aizhen encountered her master and mentioned Ding Lao Xie’s whereabouts. Her master revealed that Ding Lao Xie had been severely beaten by Yin Niang in the past and was no longer as formidable as before. Now, he could only teach minor disciples. Reassured, her master told Han Aizhen not to worry about Ding Lao Xie and to focus on protecting Qing Cai.

Han Aizhen’s master, the Mad Taoist, instructed her to protect Qing Cai. However, she had not gone far before she encountered Ding Lao Xie and his seven disciples. Although Han Aizhen’s master was highly skilled, he found himself surrounded by a group of formidable opponents who formed a circle to engage him in a 360-degree battle. Han Aizhen initially wanted to assist her master, but she was poisoned by their toxic weapons.

Her master was ultimately killed, and Han Aizhen, severely poisoned and filled with grief, fled alone. By chance, she ran into Zhang Fang, who quickly drove away the thugs pursuing her. Realizing the attackers were well-prepared, Zhang Fang brought Han Aizhen to safety, sitting her down at a skewer stand nearby. Gao Yin, who was close by, quickly administered the correct antidote, neutralizing the poison in Han Aizhen’s system.

At the same time, Wang Yishao’s true identity as the second prince afforded him a level of respect from the various factions. Meanwhile, Hu Jiao encountered two disciples of the Gourd Monster, who were an odd pair—one physically strong but simple-minded, and the other cunning and calculating. Though their skills complemented each other, they were constantly at odds. Hu Jiao overheard their bickering and decided to eliminate them, seeing it as an opportunity to do a good deed.

At that moment, Hong Hui arrived and sat beside her. One of the thugs placed his hand on Hu Jiao’s shoulder in a brotherly gesture, prompting Hong Hui to immediately warn him to be careful with his hands. The two brawny men were not intimidated and glared at Hong Hui with hostility. Sensing the tension, Hu Jiao challenged one of them to chase Hong Hui, claiming that if he could catch him, she would sincerely acknowledge his superior skills.

Hong Hui, known for his speed, seized the opportunity and dashed off. The thug chased him through the forest but was no match for Hong Hui’s agility. Back at the table, the remaining thug stayed behind with Hu Jiao, sipping tea. Though Hu Jiao remained outwardly calm, she was secretly anxious about Hong Hui’s safety. Before long, Hong Hui returned, completely unruffled. Realizing he had emerged victorious, Hu Jiao couldn’t help but steal a glance of admiration at him.

Gan Pu had crafted several crossbows, small enough to be concealed in a sleeve, capable of firing six or seven arrows at once. Qing Cai was intrigued by their power and asked about their effectiveness. Gan Pu explained that the user needed to understand the opponent’s meridians and acupoints thoroughly. Once hit, the target would be completely incapacitated. One of Ding Lao Xie’s disciples, influenced by a storyteller, became increasingly arrogant and dissatisfied with serving under his master.

Believing himself too talented to remain subordinate, he sought to break away. Upon hearing of his disciple’s insubordination, Ding Lao Xie personally stepped in to resolve the matter. The storyteller, sensing the conflict, began to expound on Zhuangzi’s philosophy of “inaction. ” Inspired by these words, the disciple claimed to have grasped the meaning of life and decided to leave his master for good. Enraged, Ding Lao Xie prepared to strip him of his martial arts abilities on the spot.

Gan Pu seized the opportunity during this confrontation, swiftly placing her sword at Ding Lao Xie’s neck, reasoning that eliminating one threat would reduce future dangers. Strangely, the rebellious disciple suddenly declared that he would no longer leave and was willing to sacrifice his life to repay his master. Moments ago, he had been ready to abandon the sect, yet now he was willing to die for his master.

Moved by his disciple’s sudden loyalty, Ding Lao Xie forgave him publicly, announcing that their master-disciple relationship was at an end and that they would go their separate ways from now on.

Gan Pu had just secretly shot an arrow into Ding Lao Xie’s meridians, leaving him temporarily unable to use his martial arts. However, with seven disciples by his side, Gan Pu was clearly outnumbered and no match for them. Fortunately, Ding Lao Xie ordered his disciples to leave. The real reason for this was that Ding Lao Xie was feeling insecure—he knew Gan Pu was a skilled opponent.

With his own injuries, he worried that his painstakingly arranged formation might be destroyed if his disciples recklessly acted. Ding Lao Xie immediately instructed his disciples to rely on the Mie Tian Fang Yuan Formation for defense. Unable to utilize his martial arts, he could only focus on maintaining a defensive stance. Just then, Gao Yin and Wang Yishao happened to pass by.

Upon hearing from Gan Pu that Ding Lao Xie was in trouble, they decided to take advantage of the situation. Ding Lao Xie, desperate to have the arrow removed from his body, was told that Gao Yin, a disciple of the Holy Robe Sect, had arrived. Hoping for her help, he immediately invited her in, optimistic that she could cure him. Before arriving, Gao Yin already knew about Ding Lao Xie’s condition.

She deliberately claimed that she would do her best to treat him, explaining that a magnet-like object was needed to extract the arrow. During this period, with Ding Lao Xie unable to use his martial arts and his seventh disciple (Xiao Qi) showing signs of hesitation, Ding Lao Xie decided to replace Xiao Qi with another promising candidate. His disciples targeted Hu Jiao, believing that her immense strength and simplicity made her an ideal recruit.

They tried to persuade her to join Ding Lao Xie’s group. Although Hu Jiao sometimes appeared gullible, she could also be quite cunning. Upon hearing the invitation, she immediately sought a way to report the situation to her superiors, wanting to know if they would approve. Hong Hui, confused by Hu Jiao’s behavior, couldn’t figure out which side she was truly on—Wang Yishao’s or someone else’s. Wang Yishao explained to Qing Cai and Gan Pu that they had misunderstood Hu Jiao.

In reality, she was likely aligned with the Crown Prince’s faction and had been monitoring them all along, reporting their every move to her superiors, who now had a clear understanding of their strategies. When Gan Pu learned that Ding Lao Xie was eager to replace Xiao Qi, she realized that the disciple was likely to be silenced soon.

Ding Lao Xie wouldn’t allow anyone to reveal the secrets of the Mie Tian Fang Yuan Formation, so Xiao Qi was bound to die. Despite losing his master’s trust, Xiao Qi still wanted to help Ding Lao Xie by searching for the magnet that could remove the arrow, knowing it was the only solution. Meanwhile, Zhang Fang successfully broke through Ding Lao Xie’s Mie Tian Fang Yuan Formation, killing five of his disciples.

Only two remained, and coincidentally, Xiao Qi found the magnet and managed to remove the arrow from Ding Lao Xie. With his strength restored, Ding Lao Xie sought to rebuild his team. Unable to find suitable, talented disciples quickly, he began considering Qing Cai’s former followers. Desperate and uncertain about his enemies’ true capabilities, Ding Lao Xie even revealed the secrets of the formation to his remaining disciples. Zhang Fang avenged Han Aizhen’s grievances by helping her take revenge.

However, he admitted that he had seen through the transient nature of life and no longer wished to involve himself in such matters. He intended to travel the world alone, leaving the conflicts behind. Known in the martial world as the “Wild Crane,” he was determined to wander freely. Han Aizhen, who had just found hope in Zhang Fang, was devastated upon hearing his decision to leave. Despite her sadness, Zhang Fang remained resolute.

Gao Yin consoled Han Aizhen, saying that some people only accompany us for a stage of life. When it’s time to part ways, we should focus on walking our next path with strength and determination.

Since Zhang Fang began his wandering journey, Han Aizhen often found herself lost in thought. Sometimes, she would hold her guzheng and play it for an entire day. Everyone knew what was on her mind, but no one knew how to console her. Meanwhile, Ding Lao Xie continued recruiting disciples, and A Jing, along with a few other small-time troublemakers, became his apprentices, spending their days diligently training.

Before the great battle began, Qing Cai and Gan Pu would often swing together. They reminisced about swinging at the villa not long ago, thinking at the time that they were about to part ways forever. However, before Yin Niang died, she forgave Gan Pu, giving them a chance to treasure the present moments. Sometimes, Gao Yin and Gan Pu would chat. Gan Pu asked Gao Yin if she hoped Wang Yishao would become king.

Gao Yin didn’t care about such positions. She admitted that Wang Yishao would be happier if he didn’t become king, and she hoped he could achieve what he truly desired. Gan Pu agreed that Qing Cai’s temperament wasn’t suited for kingship. He was too kind-hearted and lacked the ruthlessness needed to secure the throne. The two women shared similar views.

When Qing Cai and Wang Yishao learned that Hong Hui and Hu Jiao had also become Ding Lao Xie’s disciples, they were astonished. Hu Jiao wasn’t on Wang Yishao’s side, but why had Hong Hui joined Ding Lao Xie’s camp? It was incomprehensible. Wang Yishao couldn’t make sense of Hong Hui’s identity. If Hu Jiao was a spy sent by his father and elder brothers, then what was Hong Hui’s role?

Could it be that he was simply concerned for Hu Jiao’s safety and intentionally stayed by her side? Everything was speculation, and they would have to wait for the truth to emerge. Wang Yishao and his followers planned to detain his father and brothers when they came to assassinate him, then use the opportunity to force them to abdicate. Ding Lao Xie spent his days closely monitoring the training of his new disciples.

Hu Jiao and Hong Hui appeared to be learning diligently, but the group was mediocre in talent. Despite prolonged training, they were still disorganized and struggling to learn. Han Aizhen often asked her friends if they had ever heard a guqin speaking to them. Her teammates would take the guqin and listen, but they heard nothing. Later, Han Aizhen mentioned hearing Zhang Fang’s voice, telling her to wait—an endless wait.

Everyone felt sorrowful, realizing that Han Aizhen had fallen into unrequited love. Gan Pu often chatted with Han Aizhen, and as she listened to Han Aizhen’s musings, she couldn’t help but reflect on her own situation. She imagined her future with Qing Cai. From their initial acquaintance to their current deep affection, would things remain the same if Qing Cai became king? Everything was changing, and it felt strange.

Tomorrow was the day their plan would be carried out, and the night was destined to be sleepless. Hu Jiao played chess with Han Aizhen, while Qing Cai accompanied Gan Pu on the swings. Hong Hui was lost in his own thoughts, pondering Hu Jiao’s true identity. For now, everyone was safe. Hu Jiao approached Ding Lao Xie and asked, "Are you really going to work for the general? Why not serve the heir instead? That way, in the end, Mingyi Villa could be yours."

Various factions arrived at Mingyi Villa, where the villa's trainee disciples performed a farewell melody. The general and other attendees watched the performance with interest. However, some played drums without striking the drumheads, while others pretended to play flutes without bringing them to their lips—a clumsy charade that exposed their lack of skill. At this moment, Hu Jiao told Ding Lao Xie’s disciples that there would be a bloody storm today.

She claimed the heir was planning to kill Wang Yishao and Qing Cai. Not only that, but the general also wanted to kill Qing Cai. In short, Qing Cai was the target of all factions, and his death was inevitable. The previous night, Gao Yin and Wang Yishao had already confronted Ding Lao Xie. Back when Ding Lao Xie had opposed Wang Yishao, he was injured by Gan Pu's sleeve arrow. Although the arrow was removed, its poison remained.

Furthermore, during treatment, Gao Yin secretly applied a specific medicine to Ding Lao Xie’s acupoints. If Ding Lao Xie didn’t follow Wang Yishao’s orders, he would face certain death. Terrified, Ding Lao Xie reluctantly agreed to Wang Yishao's request. No one expected the event to begin with the heir killing his own father. Wang Yishao was horrified as he watched.

He had initially begged Ding Lao Xie to avoid harming anyone, but now he realized how ruthless his brother was—capable of killing their father without hesitation. Wang Yishao could only imagine how brutal his brother truly was. Wang Yishao instructed Ding Lao Xie to abandon the previous plan. With the heir publicly announcing his intention to kill both Wang Yishao and Qing Cai, Ding Lao Xie was left stunned.

He ordered his disciples to form a formation to attack Qing Cai. However, most of Ding Lao Xie’s disciples were Qing Cai’s close friends. Their clumsy and disorganized moves were more of an effort to delay the attack. At the critical moment, Hong Hui seized the opportunity. Taking advantage of the chaos, he stabbed the heir in the chest with a sword. Wang Yishao lost both his father and brother in one day. Devastated, he felt overwhelmed with grief.

Ding Lao Xie’s influence had been neutralized, and as calm returned, Han Zhong arrived. He proposed that Wang Yishao abdicate and support Qing Cai as the new king. Amid the earlier chaos, the general had already handed the royal seal to Qing Cai. Thus, Qing Cai’s ascension required no additional approval. Hong Hui revealed his true allegiance—he was loyal to the late king and had infiltrated the villa to ensure Qing Cai’s safety.

Although he outwardly aligned himself with Wang Yishao, his real mission had always been to protect Qing Cai. To everyone’s shock, Yin Niang reappeared. It turned out she had not died after all. With her presence, no one dared to raze Mingyi Villa. Order was restored as Mr. Shangshan stepped forward to take charge. He reminded Qing Cai that it was time for him to fulfill his responsibilities. However, Qing Cai had no interest in the throne.

All he wanted was a simple life with Gan Pu, free from the turmoil of politics. In front of the crowd, Qing Cai prepared to return the royal seal to Wang Yishao. Wang Yishao, however, refused. After everything he had endured, he realized what truly mattered to him. Qing Cai and Gan Pu enjoyed a peaceful and carefree life together for a time. Eventually, Wang Yishao found them and formally returned the royal seal to its rightful place.

This time, Wang Yishao was truly at peace with his decision. He planned to leave the palace and live a life free from constraints. Gan Pu, too, was unaccustomed to palace life and decided to travel the world with Qing Cai’s mentor and Han Aizhen. Meanwhile, Qing Cai’s follower, A Jing, finally achieved his dream of marrying his beloved. Everyone was able to live the life they desired.

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