The Story of Pearl Girl Episode 40 (Ending) Recap
> The Story of Pearl Girl Recap
Yan Zijing’s health was deteriorating. Kang Ju was deeply pained by this and knew that Yan Zijing, with his proud and solitary nature, would not want Duan Wu to see him in his weakened state. Kang Ju suggested leaving earlier than planned, and Yan Zijing agreed. He had already entrusted all his jewelry to a reliable person, intending for it to be left to Duan Wu after his passing. Duan Wu made a belt for Yan Zijing.
Now that Ying Tao and Gao Shou had opened a branch store in the southern part of the city, she planned to finish her work soon so she could travel the land with Yan Zijing. It was a long-cherished dream of hers. As Yan Zijing raised his arm to let Duan Wu measure his waist, an idea struck him—they could use colored glass to create a ruler. Such a unique piece would undoubtedly stand out at the Treasure Appraisal Conference.
Duan Wu agreed, and the two began designing the ruler together. That evening, Yan Zijing took Duan Wu to explore the vibrant Hangzhou night market. In this time of peace and prosperity, the streets were filled with laughter and joy. Among the lively crowd, Yan Zijing and Duan Wu received many blessings: some wished them lifelong happiness, others hoped they would soon have children. Yan Zijing was elated, pulling Duan Wu into a dance amidst the crowd.
Under the clear moonlit sky, the two embraced and shared a peaceful night together. Finally, Zhang Jinran returned. An imperial decree had been issued: the emperor, having learned the truth, bestowed a hundred bolts of fine silk as a reward and officially restored the honor of the Yan family. Yan Zijing’s lifelong goal was finally realized. After reading the decree, Zhang Jinran pulled Yan Zijing aside to apologize. He had been unable to obtain the antidote from Yuchi Wuyi.
Zhang Jinran also revealed that Duan Wu had already discovered Yan Zijing’s condition and had spared no effort in seeking out the best physicians in the capital, though her efforts were ultimately in vain. Even the imperial doctors could not provide a cure. That night, Duan Wu prepared porridge for Yan Zijing. Listening to him carefully remind her to take care of herself and not let anything hold her back, she felt a deep ache in her heart.
She understood the implication of his words. Once, she was just a lowly pearl diver, but now, as the head of Mingjing Terrace, she was living a life beyond her wildest dreams. She was deeply content. Leaning against Yan Zijing, she tried to suppress her sorrow and pleaded with him not to leave. Yan Zijing held her hand, feeling a storm brewing in his heart.
At the end of his life, he had found someone he cared for, someone who made the world seem beautiful. For the first time, he felt reluctant to leave it. At the Treasure Appraisal Conference, Duan Wu presented the "Tai Ping Ruler" she had designed with Yan Zijing. Crafted from lustrous colored glass and adorned with vibrant hues, the ruler featured a depiction of the nation's magnificent landscapes, making it a breathtaking masterpiece.
Cui Shijiu also showcased a jewelry set as her entry. Zhang Jinran personally presided over the event, and after a vote, the Tai Ping Ruler was unanimously chosen as the champion. As per tradition, the attendees began nominating the head of the Yangzhou Treasure Guild. Cui Shijiu nominated Duan Wu, citing her transparent pricing and fair dealings at Mingjing Terrace over the years. The crowd unanimously supported the nomination. Zhang Jinran invited Duan Wu to the stage to speak.
Grateful for everyone’s trust, Duan Wu expressed her detachment from fame and fortune. She passed the position of guild head to Cui Shijiu, having witnessed her growth over the years. She encouraged Cui Shijiu to prioritize integrity and fairness in her business practices. Duan Wu then continued following in Yan Zijing’s footsteps, leading her trading caravans across the land. For her, a merchant’s role went beyond the pursuit of profit.
Under Duan Wu’s adherence to principles of honesty and fairness, her caravan's business flourished, earning greater success with each journey.
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