Treasures Around Recap, Plot, Synopsis, Total Episodes

Treasures Around Synopsis

The clever and quirky business genius Shan Dandan, who aspires to become a jade appraiser, and the idle and unambitious second-generation jade merchant Pei Pei meet through a series of conflicts. Throughout their journey of "wits and battles," "love and rivalry," and "leveling up through challenges," they support each other, grow together, heal each other, and ultimately achieve their career goals and find sweet love.

Treasures Around Recap

Episode 1 Recap

Young Master Pei of Precious Pei Pavilion in Jade Cloud City orchestrated a small scare, hoping to frighten away a visitor. However, upon seeing the person, both he and the visitor shrieked in surprise. The newcomer was Shan Dandan, a pragmatic individual who had seen a recruitment notice on her own door and come seeking work. Unexpectedly, she found herself face-to-face with Young Master Pei, with whom she had a past encounter.

A day earlier, at the Full Bloom House in Jade Cloud City, Shan Dandan was pretending to be an entertainer while secretly selling jade to customers. Pei Pei arrived, possessing a sharp eye for jade that allowed him to discern the quality and authenticity of a piece instantly. He quickly noticed Shan Dandan's deceptive practices and intended to expose her, but his mother, Old Madam Pei Qin, the head of Precious Pei Pavilion, arrived with attendants looking for him.

Fearing being caught, Pei Pei tried to escape, but Shan Dandan, sensing his urgency, grabbed him and refused to let go. To secure his release, Pei Pei was forced to buy all the jade Shan Dandan had. Old Madam Pei Qin witnessed this exchange and couldn't help but smile, seemingly reminded of her own fearless younger days by Shan Dandan. Upon returning home, Pei Pei was attended to by his maidservant, Cui Liu, who was overly attentive.

Old Madam Pei Qin saw this and, displeased with Cui Liu's forward behavior, decided to recruit a new maidservant for Pei Pei. Old Madam Pei Qin also urged Pei Pei to participate in the annual Jade Competition, but he refused, still unwilling to face something from years past. Old Madam Pei Qin could only sigh. Meanwhile, Shan Dandan visited Su Jade Pavilion after selling her jade. She met her sister, Shan Shuangshuang, who worked there as a silversmith.

Shan Shuangshuang gave Shan Dandan her wages, hoping she could live a happy life. Shan Dandan, thinking Su Jade Pavilion offered good opportunities, expressed a desire to work there too. However, Shan Shuangshuang strongly discouraged her, viewing the place as perilous and wanting to spare her sister from hardship. Unaware of her sister's deeper concerns, Shan Dandan believed Shan Shuangshuang simply didn't want her to work hard.

She secretly approached the Little Shopkeeper when her sister was away, asking for his help to get a position, preferably as a jade consultant. The Little Shopkeeper mentioned that Young Master Su Jue, the head of Su Jade Pavilion, would be attending an auction on East Street and suggested that if Shan Dandan could impress him there, she might have a chance. That evening, both Su Jue and Pei Pei attended the auction.

Pei Pei held a low opinion of Su Jade Pavilion, believing they dealt in inferior jade that disrupted the market. To his surprise, Pei Pei saw Shan Dandan arrive with the Little Shopkeeper. In a show of rivalry, Pei Pei resolved to outbid Shan Dandan on every item she desired. When a jade pendant was presented, Shan Dandan, viewing it up close, saw that its quality was not as good as it appeared.

Pei Pei, watching from the second floor, needed a telescope to see clearly. Shan Dandan conceived a plan; she intentionally used a bronze mirror to reflect light onto the jade, altering its appearance and leading Pei Pei to misjudge its quality. She then deliberately raised the bid significantly. Provoked by her actions and believing the jade to be exceptional, Pei Pei aggressively bid, eventually purchasing the pendant for six hundred taels.

Faced with numerous witnesses, he was obligated to pay even after realizing he had been deceived. Pei Pei knew Shan Dandan was responsible and chased after her, but she escaped into the chaotic crowd. Immediately after fleeing the auction house, Shan Dandan encountered Su Jue and appealed for a job as a jade consultant, presenting her qualifications like sales records and market analysis.

However, Su Jue dismissed her, stating she lacked experience, connections, and skills needed for such a position at Su Jade Pavilion. As a disheartened Shan Dandan left, she ran into the pursuing Pei Pei. Before he could demand an explanation, Shan Dandan loudly accused him of his previous actions, shocking him into a hasty retreat. Old Madam Pei Qin witnessed this interaction and smiled.

She then instructed her personal maid, Li Gui Xiang, to post a recruitment notice specifically for a maidservant at Shan Dandan's door, noting its requirement was quite "thrilling." Shan Dandan, carrying the recruitment notice, arrived at Precious Pei Pavilion. The first person she met was Cui Liu, who arrogantly looked down on her, believing her current status as a maidservant was temporary. Li Gui Xiang appeared promptly and escorted Shan Dandan to see Old Madam Pei Qin.

Shan Dandan explained that while the notice was for a maidservant, her true ambition was to be a jade consultant and she saw this as a potential opportunity. She presented her experience and understanding of the jade business and customer preferences. Old Madam Pei Qin listened and decided to hire her, but as a maidservant, albeit emphasizing it was a special kind of position.

Determined to eventually achieve her goal of becoming a jade consultant, Shan Dandan accepted the role and was directed to Pei Pei's room as arranged. Pei Pei was stunned to find Shan Dandan standing in his room. Their reunion was marked by a slap from Shan Dandan. She loudly declared she was the new maidservant assigned by Old Madam. Pei Pei, equally assertive, identified himself as the Young Master of the residence and immediately began pulling her away.

Episode 2 Recap

Pei Pei pulled Shan Dandan directly in front of his mother, accusing Shan Dandan of being a spy sent by Su Jue and insisting she was working for him. His mother asked Pei Pei to provide proof. Unable to mention his visit to the Full Bloom Market Street, Pei Pei couldn't offer concrete evidence.

Despite the lack of proof, his mother insisted on keeping Shan Dandan, even arranging for her to assist in the jade selection process for the upcoming Jade Competition. She stated that if Shan Dandan performed well, she could stay. Pei Pei began to object, but his mother interrupted him, declaring that if he didn't want Shan Dandan to participate, he would have to take her place in the competition. Left speechless, Pei Pei turned and walked away.

Returning to her room, Pei Pei's mother wept privately. Pei Pei's reluctance to participate in the Jade Competition stemmed from his late father, Pei Chu Feng, having forbidden him from it when he was alive. His mother explained that his father had done it for the greater good and the family's safety, and regretted it before his death. However, Pei Pei refused to listen.

She mused that the household desperately needed a trustworthy person, as she suspected a traitor within Precious Pei Pavilion. She found Shan Dandan likable and hoped she hadn't misjudged her, believing Shan Dandan might help Pei Pei find his footing again. She admitted that placing Shan Dandan with Pei Pei was precisely because he disliked her, hoping Shan Dandan could challenge him and help him stand up again, which she considered would be a great contribution.

Shan Dandan busied herself constantly cleaning and tidying, severely disrupting Pei Pei's routine. Frustrated, Pei Pei offered her double the amount his mother was paying her to leave, but Shan Dandan wasn't interested in the money or leaving. Pei Pei wanted to find a reason to dismiss her, so he asked his attendant, A'Liu, to inspect her work. A'Liu reported that the cleaning was impeccable, leaving no grounds for dismissal.

Pei Pei then taunted Shan Dandan about her name, calling it ridiculous, but she cleverly retorted with a pun on his name, leaving him momentarily speechless. He decided he would find a way eventually. Pei Pei's mother instructed Shopkeeper Hao to take Shan Dandan to Precious Pei Pavilion's workshop so she could learn about jade selection and prepare for the competition.

Shopkeeper Hao explained that pairing for the competition was based on voluntary teams and told Shan Dandan to find someone willing to work with her. Shan Dandan approached several craftsmen, but they were all hostile and refused to team up. Defeated, she decided to seek a breakthrough by observing the jade sales instead. A'Liu secretly followed her.

Shan Dandan went to the front desk, offering to help, but Shopkeeper Hao rebuffed her, saying if she did everyone's job, they would face unemployment. Just then, a couple entered. The man suggested buying jade, but the woman scoffed, calling the pavilion's items outdated, and insisted they go to Su Jade Pavilion instead. A new idea struck Shan Dandan: if she could help Precious Pei Pavilion reverse its fortunes, it would be more valuable than working for Su Jade Pavilion.

She went outside Su Jade Pavilion to observe. She overheard conversations and noticed a woman with a hairpin. To her surprise, she recognized the design as one from Precious Pei Pavilion, now being sold at Su Jade Pavilion. This seemed to confirm the existence of a traitor. She then saw her sister, Shan Shuangshuang, who worked as a designer at Su Jade Pavilion. They stepped aside to talk.

A'Liu, who was still trailing Shan Dandan, saw the beautiful Shan Shuangshuang and was instantly smitten, almost losing track of Shan Dandan. Shan Dandan expressed her worries about the copied designs appearing at Su Jade Pavilion and mentioned that Old Madam wanted her to manage Young Master Pei.

Shan Shuangshuang worried about Shan Dandan being at Precious Pei Pavilion given her past actions that offended Pei Pei and whether Old Madam had ulterior motives, but Shan Dandan reassured her sister that Old Madam genuinely liked her and believed in her capabilities. Upon returning to the residence, Shan Dandan observed the kitchen leftovers to understand Pei Pei's food preferences. She then remarked to Cui Liu how inadequate her service was, listing Pei Pei's dislikes based on the leftover dishes.

Her keen observation slightly changed Pei Pei's perception of her, though he didn't consciously realize it. Shan Dandan began working on a new design concept: interweaving two jade bracelets. She enlisted the help of an apprentice named Yang Yu Huan, but the apprentice's skills were unrefined, resulting in significant material waste. Shan Dandan requested additional funds from Shopkeeper Hao for the competition, but he refused. Pei Pei also mocked her for wasting his family's money.

While Shan Dandan worried about funding, Pei Pei's mother invited her to play mahjong. She promised Shan Dandan half the winnings if she helped. Shan Dandan eagerly acted as her consultant, and they won over two hundred taels. Witnessing this, Pei Pei was further displeased. A'Liu suggested a "honey trap" strategy.

Pei Pei realized this could work; his mother detested people who sought to climb the social ladder, and presenting Shan Dandan as trying to seduce him might convince his mother she had misjudged Shan Dandan, leading to her dismissal. Later, Cui Liu angrily came to inform Shan Dandan that Pei Pei had specifically requested her presence to serve him while he bathed.

Episode 3 Recap

Cuiliu, acting on Pei Pei’s orders, brought cosmetics and clothing to Dandan Dan and passed along a message: Dandan Dan was to attend to Pei Pei’s bath that evening. Dandan Dan strongly resisted this arrangement, saying she needed to go to the workshop and asked Cuiliu to go in her place. However, Cuiliu told her that Pei Pei had specifically requested her.

In the end, Dandan Dan decided to obey her master’s command, but secretly came up with a plan to teach Pei Pei a lesson. When Dandan Dan arrived at Pei Pei’s room to serve him, he initially said he wasn’t going to bathe but then asked her to give him a massage. As he lay face down, Dandan Dan called in Yang Yuhuan (Huan Huan) and had her walk on his back. Yang Yuhuan’s steps caused Pei Pei great pain.

When he turned to see who it was and realized it was her, he was so shocked he couldn’t even speak. At that moment, the matron of the household arrived with her attendants, claiming she had received a tip-off that someone was trying to seduce the young master. Pei Pei panicked and quickly had Yang Yuhuan hide.

Dandan Dan realized that the matron’s sudden arrival was orchestrated by Pei Pei, intending to falsely accuse her of seduction and have her driven out. She calmly greeted the matron and said she was heading to the workshop, then left. The matron didn’t scold Dandan Dan; in fact, she seemed rather pleased. Pei Pei’s scheme to get rid of Dandan Dan failed once again.

Meanwhile, Yang Yuhuan was feeling down because she had repeatedly ruined the jade pieces Dandan Dan prepared for her. As she carved, she cried. Dandan Dan comforted her, saying it wasn’t her fault—her own ideas were simply too strange and complicated. She decided to go out and find better jade for Yang Yuhuan to practice with.

Dandan Dan went to a jade shop and found a fine piece of jade she liked, but the shopkeeper said it had already been reserved by Su Jue of Su Yuxuan. Just then, her sister Dan Shuangshuang arrived along with Su Jue. Dandan Dan assumed she’d lost her chance, but upon learning that she was Shuangshuang’s younger sister and worked for the Pei family, Su Jue willingly gave the jade to her.

Delighted, Dandan Dan praised Su Jue, saying Pei Pei couldn’t compare to even one of Su Jue’s toes. Just as she said this, Pei Pei arrived and overheard her. Enraged, he smashed the jade in her hands and stormed off. Dandan Dan was furious, but out of respect for the matron’s trust in her, she decided not to leave the Pei household. She gathered the shattered jade and returned. Her sister Shuangshuang, concerned, followed after Pei Pei.

As Pei Pei walked angrily down the street, Shuangshuang threw a rock at his leg from behind, causing him to stumble and accidentally fall into the arms of a plump woman admiring herself in a bronze mirror. The woman thought he was trying to molest her and loudly accused him of being a pervert. Pei Pei tried to explain that someone had pushed him, but she didn’t believe him.

In the end, he was only able to escape by “admitting his fault,” and the woman even said she’d wait for him to marry her. Back at the workshop, Dandan Dan gave the broken jade pieces to Yang Yuhuan and encouraged her to try carving them. To her surprise, Yang Yuhuan said someone had proposed to her—it was arranged by Pei Pei, who even gave her a month off to prepare for the wedding.

Though Yang Yuhuan was happy to have found someone she liked, she was also worried it would interfere with the upcoming Jade Carving Competition. Dandan Dan, though conflicted, understood how rare true love was and agreed to her request, but held a grudge against Pei Pei for orchestrating the situation. Fuming, Dandan Dan went to confront Pei Pei. She accused him of manipulating Yang Yuhuan’s engagement and leave in order to sabotage her chances in the competition.

She angrily called him a useless freeloader who had never accomplished anything. Pei Pei denied that he arranged the engagement to ruin her competition, but Dandan Dan declared that no matter how he tried to hinder her, she would not give up on the Jade Carving Competition. Her harsh words hit Pei Pei hard—especially being called useless—which made him feel as if she had seen through his entire life. The next morning, Dandan Dan didn’t prepare food for Pei Pei.

Cuiliu brought breakfast instead, but Pei Pei had no appetite. He heard from Ah Liu that Dandan Dan had caught a cold and fallen ill, so he went to check on her. Dandan Dan, furious at the sight of him, tried to kick him out, but he refused to leave. Seeing her still practicing carving while sick, he stepped in to teach her some knife techniques. Despite his usual unmotivated appearance, he actually had a solid foundation in jade carving.

Under his guidance, Dandan Dan successfully completed a small piece. She happily brought it to the matron for approval. The matron was pleased with the originality of the earring design, though it was a bit rough. She praised the creativity and noted that such fine craftsmanship clearly came from expert instruction. Dandan Dan admitted someone had given her some pointers but insisted the design was her own. The matron believed her and praised her passion and intelligence.

She then instructed Shopkeeper Hao to find better jade for Dandan Dan to use in the competition, specifically asking for Hetian green jade. Dandan Dan went to the Pei family workshop to ask Shopkeeper Hao about the Hetian jade. Hao said he had searched the entire city but couldn’t find a single piece—it simply wasn’t available on the market. Pei Pei happened to overhear this. He then took Ah Liu with him to the market to look for jade.

Dandan Dan also went out to look for jade and noticed that many vendors were pretending to sell seafood instead. Sharp-witted as ever, she quickly realized they were smugglers using code words like “seafood” and “soy sauce,” and “the eagle catches the chick” to refer to government crackdowns. Using the right code words, she successfully obtained some jade. As she was leaving with the materials, she saw Pei Pei at the black market trying to buy jade as well. However, since Pei Pei didn’t know the code words, he directly asked if they had “raw materials.” The vendors mistook him for a government agent—the “eagle”—and prepared to attack him.

Episode 4 Recap

At the black market, Shan Dandan tried to mediate a confrontation involving Pei Pei, explaining that he was her servant and new to the place, unaware of the rules. However, the situation escalated when the smugglers discovered a government official's jade pendant on Pei Pei, which he claimed was a reward from the City Lord. Recognizing him as potentially an "eagle" (government official), they decided to attack.

Realizing the danger, Shan Dandan pulled Pei Pei away, and they fled, pursued through the market area. Meanwhile, Su Jue was informed that Pei Pei was causing trouble in his black market, exposing contraband. He was enraged by the damage to his business. Unbeknownst to him, Shan Shuangshuang overheard the discussion.

Pei Pei and Shan Dandan attempted to hide during the chase, with Pei Pei questioning why Shan Dandan was there; she revealed she was trying to get jade stones for him. Their hiding spot was given away by a goose, forcing them to confront their pursuers. Just as they were overwhelmed, Pei Pei's attendant A'Liu arrived with reinforcements, protecting them and helping them escape back to Precious Pei Pavilion. A'Liu claimed credit for saving them.

Back at Precious Pei Pavilion, Shan Dandan noticed Pei Pei's injury, sustained during the escape. He refused to call a doctor to keep it hidden from the Old Madam, claiming it was a minor injury. Despite his protests, Shan Dandan insisted on treating the wound herself after A'Liu feigned an inability to handle blood. She carefully cleaned and dressed the cut, apologizing for any pain.

Though Pei Pei tried to deny the true reason for his black market visit, A'Liu revealed that Pei Pei had gone to find Hetian jade for Shan Dandan as an apology for breaking her stone previously. Pei Pei tried to brush it off, claiming he only did it so she could win the Jade Competition and he could continue living comfortably, but Shan Dandan thanked him sincerely for his effort.

The Old Madam was aware of Pei Pei's injury but chose not to intervene, trusting Shan Dandan to care for him. Su Jue was furious about the black market seizure and the loss of his jade mine to the Pei family. He vowed vengeance on Pei Pei, blaming him for disrupting his business and attracting government attention. He discussed with his servant how the Pei family had once pressured them but they had surpassed them by mastering new skills.

This conversation was overheard by Shan Shuangshuang, who wondered if the skills related to the Phoenix Crown. Su Jue also ordered an investigation into potential betrayal within his organization regarding the black market raid. After Su Jue left, Shan Shuangshuang entered his room, searching for something, but the subtitles do not explicitly show her finding a secret compartment, only that she was investigating the space.

At the workshop, Shan Dandan proposed a new strategy for Precious Pei Pavilion, focusing on red and white jade based on market trends. The shopkeeper adopted her suggestion, leading to a significant increase in sales and bonuses for the craftsmen, who were grateful to Shan Dandan. Pei Pei visited the workshop and was impressed by her business acumen. He then demonstrated his own skill by expertly advising a craftsman struggling with red jade, earning praise for his talent.

Witnessing his ability, Shan Dandan suggested they team up for the upcoming Jade Competition, confident they could win. However, Pei Pei abruptly dismissed the idea, stating he was not interested, and walked away. Confused by Pei Pei's refusal despite his obvious talent, Shan Dandan wondered why he avoided jade carving. The Old Madam found her and explained that Pei Pei suffered a tragedy years ago that broke his heart.

He was once the most talented carver but vowed never to touch the family business again, choosing instead to act as a playboy. The Old Madam revealed that she had let him be unremarkable for his safety, following his father's last wishes, but now needed him to take over the pavilion due to her age.

She saw hope in Shan Dandan, someone new to his life, and asked her to help him overcome his past trauma, stressing that the family's future relied on her. The Old Madam did not disclose the specifics of the tragedy, calling it a scar on his heart he wouldn't discuss. Across town, Su Jue prepared for the Jade Competition, selecting top-quality ice jade for his entry: a "Two jade mandarin ducks in clear water" piece.

He declared his intention to gift the winning piece to Shan Shuangshuang, interpreting it as a symbol of lasting love. Shan Shuangshuang responded modestly, but Su Jue insisted she deserved it. Later, Shan Dandan asked A'Liu about the importance of the Jade Competition. A'Liu explained its prestige and Su Jue's status as a two-time champion.

He confirmed Pei Pei had participated years ago but withdrew after something happened, frustrating Shan Dandan's attempts to learn more by being evasive and telling her to ask Pei Pei directly. Shan Shuangshuang continued her investigation in Su Jue's space, looking for a second drawing related to the Phoenix Crown design, but only found one. She lamented the difficulty of understanding the techniques with incomplete information and the loss of the actual crown.

While she was hiding, Su Jue and a servant discussed the missing drawing, suspecting betrayal and dismissing the Pei family as a threat because Pei Pei hadn't carved in years. After they left, Shan Shuangshuang emerged, still puzzled about the whereabouts of the original Phoenix Crown. She then visited her father's grave, recalling his dying words. Her father confessed he had been exploited, stating that the amber on the Phoenix Crown was not medicinal as claimed.

He told her he was foolish and instructed her to protect herself but specifically warned her not to seek revenge. Reflecting on her fruitless investigation in the Su family, she began to wonder if the clues might lie with the Pei family instead. Distraught by Shan Dandan's earlier comment about him being useless, Pei Pei attempted to carve but was overcome by his inner turmoil. He turned to heavy drinking. Shan Dandan found him and joined him.

He spoke despairingly, comparing himself to the moon, appearing bright but having no inner light. He confessed he envied her talent. Shan Dandan praised his abilities, insisting his indifference was an act and urging him to use his gifts for himself and the people who cared about him.

This prompted a painful memory for Pei Pei: as a boy, his father, fearing accusations of theft regarding the lost Phoenix Crown, scolded him for carving a piece that reminded others of it. His father forbade him from participating in the Jade Competition and from carving again, claiming he had already withdrawn Pei Pei to avoid trouble.

When the young Pei Pei argued, calling his father a coward, his father violently twisted his wrist, breaking three bones and permanently affecting his ability to carve. A doctor confirmed the severe injury. His mother, prioritizing his safety, accepted his father's decision to make him unremarkable. Pei Pei explained that since then, he had never carved again and became an indulgent fool as a form of defiance after his father's death.

Shan Dandan suggested his father might have had deeper reasons, but Pei Pei couldn't fathom what could justify such cruelty. Shan Dandan reassured him he wasn't destroyed, praised his talent, and urged him, as the only man left in the Pei family, to recover for his mother and the pavilion. Moved, Pei Pei repeated her words, "The best Pei Pei." Drunkenly, he pinky swore to pull himself together and then leaned on her shoulder and fell asleep, leaving Shan Dandan surprised.

Episode 5 Recap

Shan Shuangshuang entered Su Jue's room alone. Su Jue was already there and demanded to know what she was doing. Shuangshuang explained that she had brought him Goose Pear Scent, an herb with calming and slumber effects, because she had noticed he didn't look rested. She had wanted to give it to him personally but found no one in his room, so she decided to wait.

Su Jue apologized for being harsh, and Shuangshuang took the blame for entering his room without permission. He accepted her apology, saying he had misunderstood her good intentions, and she promised not to do it again, advising him to rest early. Shortly after she left, a servant arrived with news. They had retrieved the black market goods from the authorities, but bribes and lost goods along the way had cost them over 5,000 taels.

This news enraged Su Jue, and he called Pei Pei vile, vowing to make up their loss from him. He then asked about arrangements he had previously made, which his uncle confirmed were in place. Meanwhile, Shan Dandan took food to Pei Pei's room. She felt a bit shy about their kiss the previous day, assuming he had been completely drunk. However, Pei Pei told her that he hadn't been entirely drunk, which pleased Dandan.

Just as Dandan was waiting for him to say more, Aliu rushed in, announcing that something was wrong and they needed to hurry. At Pei Pei Pavilion, several creditors had gathered, demanding immediate repayment of their investments. They had heard rumors that the pavilion was running out of funds and feared losing their money. Old Madam Pei was furious, arguing that their contracts clearly stated the repayment dates, which had not yet arrived.

She accused them of damaging their relationship based on baseless rumors. The creditors insisted there was "no smoke without fire" and questioned the pavilion's solvency, even comparing it unfavorably to Su Jade Pavilion. Old Madam Pei's shopkeeper informed her they didn't have enough cash on hand as the finished jade pieces hadn't been sold. The creditors pointed out that the house was used as a guarantee and threatened real action if they didn't get their money today.

Old Madam Pei stood firm, refusing to pay before the contract date, stating it would break industry rules, and offered her life instead. Seeing the tense situation, Dandan stepped forward. She announced that she had saved enough money to buy her dowry. A maid brought forward a box filled with silver. The creditors were surprised that a maid could have so much money, but Dandan defended herself against any suggestion of theft.

She explained that Pei Pei Pavilion paid generous monthly wages, including extra wages for holidays, and that she had saved this much in less than half a year. She argued that if a maid could have such savings, it proved the Pei family was not short of money. She challenged the creditors, offering them her wages or suggesting they take the matter to the government.

She then added that she had heard a new regulation was coming from the Imperial City about strict penalties for contract breaches without cause, advising them to be careful. Convinced by her argument and the display of funds, the creditors decided to leave, promising to return on the specified repayment date. After they left, Old Madam Pei asked Dandan if the new regulation was real.

Dandan admitted she had lied, just wanting to buy them time to figure things out if the rumors were true. Aliu revealed the money came from Pei Pei's private stash under the bed. Old Madam Pei praised Dandan for being as smart as she was, admitting her own desperation in the moment. Pei Pei had witnessed Dandan's handling of the creditors and was deeply impressed, finding her actions both smart and courageous.

He reflected on how the little maid he initially disliked had proven to be so capable. Similarly, Dandan found herself thinking about Pei Pei. The next morning, Dandan brought breakfast. She noticed Pei Pei had styled his hair and changed his clothes, looking particularly handsome. Pei Pei insisted that she and Aliu join him for the meal, saying they were like his family now. During breakfast, he announced his intention to participate in the upcoming Jade Competition.

Dandan was incredibly excited by this news. Pei Pei's wrist had been injured years ago, leaving him unable to carve with his right hand. Dandan encouraged him, telling him that his left hand was just as capable and that he was a genius and the chosen one. She believed he could succeed with effort and that his vision and talent were more important than rigid technique. She reminded him that the Pei family depended on him.

Dandan actively supported his practice, helping him train his left hand strength and precision, such as drawing a bow. With her encouragement and consistent effort, Pei Pei began to show improvement. Meanwhile, Su Jue was working on his own jade carving of mandarin ducks. Shuangshuang offered a unique concept: carving blind mandarin ducks who still choose to stay together for life, suggesting that their bond went beyond physical appearance.

Su Jue found the idea brilliant and unconventional, calling Shuangshuang his lucky star. His servant arrived to inform him that Pei Pei was also preparing for the Jade Competition and that Old Madam Pei was overseeing his practice. Su Jue found it amusing that "Pei slacker" was actually making an effort and decided to take Shuangshuang with him to visit the Pei Residence and witness the spectacle.

In the carriage on the way to the Pei Residence, Shuangshuang asked Su Jue about the rumors surrounding the lost Moon Phoenix Crown, specifically whether it was the Pei family or Su family's fault. Su Jue explained that at the time, both families were of equal standing, so when the crown went missing from the Pei family, fingers naturally pointed to the Su family.

However, he shared another rumor from back then: that the Pei family had stolen their own crown. He elaborated that the crown wasn't crafted solely by Pei Chu Feng, as many renowned craftsmen contributed secret techniques the Pei family coveted. Furthermore, the water agate on the crown was the City Lord's family heirloom, entrusted to the Pei family to set into the crown, and it vanished with the crown. He asked Shuangshuang for her thoughts on the matter.

At the Pei Residence, Pei Pei continued practicing his carving, showing significant improvement, which delighted his family. Aliu announced that Su Jue of Su Jade Pavilion had arrived. Pei Pei, accompanied by Dandan, went to receive him. Su Jue asked for Old Madam Pei but was told that Young Master Pei was the pillar of the family.

Su Jue remarked on how much Dandan had changed, noting that not long ago she despised Pei Pei, but now they seemed like one big family. Dandan replied that people change and found Su Jue's comments even funnier. Su Jue warned her to be careful not to follow the wrong master. Dandan countered that she wasn't worried about their people and suggested Su Jue focus on himself. Pei Pei agreed with Dandan.

Dandan then asked if she could speak with her sister, Shuangshuang. They went aside, and Dandan explained that Old Madam Pei had assigned her the task of helping Pei Pei with the competition, while Su Jue wanted Shuangshuang to participate with him, which put them in opposing positions. Shuangshuang acknowledged that it made them seem like enemies but insisted it was just work and nothing could change that they were sisters.

Dandan praised the people at Pei Pei Pavilion, including Pei Pei himself, saying he wasn't like her initial impression, and mentioned Old Madam Pei's affection for her. She suggested Shuangshuang join them at Pei Pei Pavilion. Shuangshuang hesitated, stating that Su Jue had been very kind to her, especially with the competition approaching. Dandan understood that her joining now might look like poaching and suggested she join after the competition instead.

Shuangshuang then gave Dandan a hairpin she had made, which Dandan admired. Pei Pei approached and immediately recognized the gold and silver inlay technique used on the hairpin. Shuangshuang was surprised he knew it, and he said he knew a bit about the techniques used on the Moon Phoenix Crown. He then told Shuangshuang to see the shopkeeper for materials as he needed to practice.

Before she left, Shuangshuang asked Pei Pei about his main technique for the competition, and he replied: hollow carving and silk thread carving. After their visit, Shuangshuang asked Su Jue for permission to take an hour off to buy her favorite steamed cake from the western market. She declined his offer to accompany her, stating she wanted to go alone. Su Jue agreed and let her go.

However, instead of going to the market, Shuangshuang secretly returned to the Pei Residence, seemingly to search for more information related to the Phoenix Crown. She found several diagrams detailing complex techniques. She mused that since Pei Chu Feng had passed away when Pei Pei was very young, Pei Pei couldn't have possibly mastered the Phoenix Crown techniques on his own, unless something had been left behind for him to study.

She wondered if Su Jue's theory about the Pei family stealing their own crown might be true. Meanwhile, Tan Qing He, a renowned painter and Dandan's former boss, came to visit her. Dandan was delighted to see him. Pei Pei and Aliu were discussing arranging "Jade Beauties" for the competition. Pei Pei explained that Su Jade Pavilion had bribed and booked all the popular ladies at Full Bloom House, leaving other jade shops with limited options, which he found shameless.

Aliu speculated that Pei Pei's plan might involve sacrificing himself, or perhaps he was just afraid Dandan would get jealous. Pei Pei dismissed this. Dandan was happily chatting with Tan Qing He. She explained that with her increased workload as a "jade consultant," she could have asked him to help earn extra money, celebrating her new role.

Tan Qing He showed her portraits he had drawn of the ladies at Full Bloom House, explaining they wanted them for booklets as references for jade shops to assist consultants. Dandan remarked on Su Jade Pavilion always booking the famous ladies. Pei Pei then approached, and Dandan introduced Tan Qing He as her former boss and good friend.

Pei Pei greeted Tan Qing He but made a sarcastic comment about how close they must be, comparing the introduction to bringing an ex-husband to meet the current one. Dandan called him sarcastic. Pei Pei announced he was going to Full Bloom House. Dandan was surprised. Tan Qing He mentioned he was also going there to see if the portraits needed changes, and Dandan, deciding to earn some money, offered to deliver them for him.

Pei Pei arrived at Full Bloom House and was talking with one of the ladies, Ling Yuan, showing her jewelry. He complimented her appearance. An assistant arrived with urgent news from the shop, requiring Pei Pei to leave immediately. Ling Yuan was upset he had to go, reminding him he promised to spend the day with her and be her "Jade Beauty" escort. She complained he wouldn't even help her pick jewelry.

As Pei Pei was preparing to leave, Dandan arrived. Ling Yuan claimed Dandan had hurt her when she fell, but Dandan said her hand had slipped. Ling Yuan showed Dandan the painting of herself and asked Pei Pei whether the person or the painting was more beautiful. Pei Pei chose the person, leading Ling Yuan to conclude the painting wasn't beautiful and needed significant changes to match her and surpass Lady Hua Dian.

Dandan seemed aware of the specific changes requested and found it infuriating. She offered to have Tan Qing He make changes for Ling Yuan as well. Aliu reminded Pei Pei they had another appointment with Lady Hua Dian soon and urged him to leave quickly. Pei Pei, seeing Dandan, asked why she was there, assuming she was delivering paintings for "that ugly painter." Aliu confirmed this. Pei Pei decided to see Hua Dian first and deal with Dandan later, quickly leaving with Aliu, leaving Dandan standing there.

Episode 6 Recap

Pei Pei was seeking Jade Models for the Jade Competition, but he had approached both Ling Yuan and Hua Dian without clearly indicating he needed multiple models. This led each woman to believe she was his sole choice, fostering a sense of trust in him. While Pei Pei was meeting with Hua Dian, Shan Dandan arrived.

She brought a painting of Hua Dian done by Painter Tan Qinghe and mischievously encouraged Pei Pei to declare whether Hua Dian herself or her portrait was more beautiful, which left him feeling awkward. After leaving Hua Dian's presence, Pei Pei confronted Shan Dandan, accusing her of deliberately causing trouble. Shan Dandan, however, felt resentful that Pei Pei was spending time with other women, viewing his actions as flirting.

Their argument was interrupted when both Ling Yuan and Hua Dian discovered that Pei Pei had approached them simultaneously to be his Jade Model. Angered by his apparent deception, the women became confrontational, prompting a startled Shan Dandan and Pei Pei to quickly flee. Meanwhile, Su Jue's uncle had obtained a design from Precious Pei Pavilion, which he revealed was for an Exquisite Jade piece. Upon seeing the design, Su Jue was pleased.

He instructed his uncle to have an identical Exquisite Jade Ruyi carved and sent to the governor's residence as a birthday gift. Their plan was that once Pei Pei presented his piece at the competition, he would be accused of plagiarism, disqualifying him.

Su Jue also admitted his long-standing admiration for Shan Shuangshuang and declared his intention to win the competition with his piece, the Mandarin Duck in Turquoise Water, and present it to her as a token of his affection. Back at Precious Pei Pavilion, Pei Pei continued to be upset with Shan Dandan's interference. He directly asked if she had been jealous when she saw him with other women, which led her to cause chaos at Full Bloom House.

Surprisingly, Shan Dandan admitted her jealousy, stating her dislike for seeing him with others, his inconsistent behavior, and his previous actions like kissing her without acknowledging it later. Pei Pei seemed pleased by her admission. He then kissed her again, explicitly stating he was not drunk this time, marking a clear step in their relationship. Shan Dandan responded warmly, embracing the moment.

After confirming their relationship, both Pei Pei and Shan Dandan became distracted and seemed less focused on the upcoming Jade Competition. A'Liu noticed their indifference and urged them to concentrate on the important task at hand. Reminded of their responsibilities, they regained their focus and began discussing their competition piece and finding a suitable Jade Model. With the previous plan involving Hua Dian and Ling Yuan falling apart, they needed a new approach.

Pei Pei suggested inviting Hong Yan from Full Bloom House, noting her exceptional dance skills despite not being as famous as the others. They met with Hong Yan and proposed she be their Jade Model, offering her the Exquisite Jade Ruyi they had planned to present.

However, after seeing the Ruyi, Hong Yan explained that it would be difficult to integrate the piece effectively with her dance, making it hard to showcase both the jade and her performance to their full potential. They explained that the Ruyi was very important and couldn't be changed, which presented a challenge. Unexpectedly, Pei Pei decided to change the piece itself, realizing the importance of the Jade Model's presentation.

He asked Hong Yan what kind of jade piece would better suit her dance, mentioning options like a drum, fan, or flute. Based on her input, he committed to creating a jade fan specifically tailored to her performance. Shan Dandan initially worried that changing the piece so close to the competition might be risky, but after Pei Pei sought her encouragement, which led to a kiss, his confidence soared.

He quickly completed the design for the jade fan and personally began carving it. When Pei Pei presented the finished jade fan to Hong Yan, it proved to be a perfect match for her dance. Hong Yan's subsequent performance with the fan was described as astonishingly beautiful, showcasing the potential of the piece. As the day of the Jade Competition arrived, Pei Pei and Shan Dandan were faced with a crisis: Hong Yan was nowhere to be found.

They frantically searched for her, growing increasingly worried. Unbeknownst to them, Su Jue was behind her disappearance. He had instructed Madam Yang at Full Bloom House to prevent her and other dancers from attending the competition, intending to cripple Precious Pei Pavilion's chances. Facing the imminent start of the competition and with no Jade Model, a desperate Shan Dandan volunteered to step in and perform as the Jade Model herself, despite her lack of professional dancing experience.

The competition commenced with various participants presenting their main jade pieces accompanied by performances. However, the City Lord appeared somewhat unimpressed with the initial presentations. When it was Su Jade Pavilion's turn, Shan Shuangshuang took the stage with the Mandarin Duck in Turquoise Water. Her presence with the beautiful jade piece was captivating. Su Jue then delivered a compelling speech about the piece, further enhancing its presentation.

The City Lord was greatly impressed, praising Su Jade Pavilion's entry and seeming ready to declare them the champion before the next competitor even presented. Finally, it was Precious Pei Pavilion's turn. To everyone's astonishment, Shan Dandan had made a last-minute change to their presentation plan. Instead of herself, she convinced Pei Pei to take the stage as the Jade Model, dressed as a woman, holding the jade fan. Pei Pei's appearance was strikingly beautiful, surprising the crowd.

Su Jue was particularly shocked, having anticipated the Exquisite Jade Ruyi based on the design obtained by his spy. The sudden change to a jade fan caught him completely off guard, leading him to believe his strategy had failed. Pei Pei then performed with the fan, captivating the audience. The City Lord received Pei Pei's jade fan and expressed his admiration for it. However, he still felt that Su Jade Pavilion's Mandarin Duck in Turquoise Water was slightly superior.

As the City Lord was preparing to announce the champion, Shan Dandan spoke up from the audience. She urged the City Lord to examine the jade fan closely with a magnifying glass. Upon closer inspection, the City Lord was astonished to discover the long-lost silk thread-carving technique used on the fan. Recognizing the immense skill involved, he was highly impressed by the exquisite craftsmanship.

The judges, however, remained divided, with some favoring Su Jade Pavilion's piece for its material and overall artistry, and others arguing for Precious Pei Pavilion's fan due to its remarkable carving technique. Faced with the disagreement, the City Lord decided to declare both shops tied for first place.

At this moment, Su Jue's uncle stood up and requested that the City Lord open a gift box that Su Jade Pavilion had sent to his residence a few days prior, hinting at a further complication.

Episode 7 Recap

At the City Lord's event, when the gift from Su Jue's uncle was unveiled, it was a jade fan strikingly similar to the one Pei Pei had submitted for the competition, causing astonishment among the attendees. Su Jue then announced that this jade fan was originally his planned entry, but he had lost a design draft at his residence and, suspecting someone might copy his work, changed his entry last minute.

He claimed to be presenting the earlier-finished fan as an advance birthday gift to the City Lord. Pei Pei immediately protested, asserting the fan had been in his possession. Su Jue accused Pei Pei of insolence and plagiarism, arguing that his own fan's craftsmanship was superior and that if one were to copy, they ought to refine the technique. Pei Pei vehemently denied copying.

Shan Dandan corroborated Pei Pei's statement, confirming they worked on their piece together and did not reference others' work. Su Jue countered by mentioning his uncle could testify for him. The City Lord declared the evidence clear, expressing outrage that such a thing occurred in the city's largest competition. He decreed that Precious Pei Pavilion was permanently disqualified from the competition and forbidden from designing or making official tributes from that day forward.

Pei Pei and Su Jue exchanged sharp accusations. Following the scandal, creditors arrived at Precious Pei Pavilion demanding repayment and seizing items, citing that they had provided materials upfront and were to be paid after sales, which were now impossible with the official supply rights terminated. The pavilion was severely impacted. Inside, Lady Pei downplayed the significance of losing one competition, noting they had settled with the suppliers and stating that despite the current predicament, they could always start anew.

When someone suggested Shan Dandan was inexperienced and the pairing was rash, Lady Pei took responsibility, calling it a malicious plot and stating it had nothing to do with them. She announced a full investigation for a potential spy within Precious Pei Pavilion but praised Pei Pei and Shan Dandan, saying their performance was excellent throughout. She concluded the matter, forbidding further discussion without proof to avoid harsher scrutiny, and expressed hope of clearing their name later.

Dismissing everyone else, she asked Pei Pei to stay. Lady Pei expressed her deep satisfaction that Pei Pei had taken up carving again, regardless of the outcome. She acknowledged their strong preparation and her desire for them to grow and regain confidence. She conceded that Su Jue used devious tactics and that they did not need to argue with him, assuring Pei Pei that Precious Pei Pavilion would recover its glory with his continued progress, expressing her faith in him.

She also told him not to vent frustration on Shan Dandan, who did her best, noting a change in his usual attitude towards her. Pei Pei and Shan Dandan went to a tea house to confront Hong Yan. Pei Pei suspected Su Jue was behind the scheme and asked if she had leaked information, assuming she was protecting him.

Hong Yan admitted she had switched sides and joined Su Jade Pavilion because she couldn't afford to offend them due to Su Jue's dealings with Madam Yang. She admitted her ingratitude regarding being the Jade Model was a voluntary decision. Pei Pei clarified he was not questioning the Jade Model matter but the jade fan, noting that besides them, only she knew about it.

Hong Yan denied revealing the fan design, stating she would admit her own mistakes but not engage in harmful acts. She recounted meeting Su Jue, where she only mentioned that Pei Pei was making an Exquisite Jade Ruyi, and swore she never mentioned a jade fan. Pei Pei dismissed her, and afterwards, told Shan Dandan he didn't believe it was Hong Yan, reasoning that she wouldn't have revealed her encounter with Su Jue if she were guilty.

He then brought up a previous instance where Su Jade Pavilion was selling a design draft before it was released by Precious Pei Pavilion, suggesting another leak source within their own ranks. While Su Jue was receiving congratulations, Wang Shopkeeper observed that he still seemed unhappy despite winning first place. Su Jue stated that winning was part of the plan and nothing to be particularly happy about, but Pei Pei's fan carving technique was truly annoying to him.

Wang Shopkeeper found it strange, given Pei Pei hadn't been involved with jade for years. Su Jue stressed the need for continued vigilance, believing Pei Pei's resurgence would be brief. Separately, Shan Shuangshuang examined some of Pei Pei's work, noting the intricate filigree carving technique was almost equal to that used in the Moon Phoenix Crown, which made her question if she had misjudged him.

Shan Shuangshuang later visited Pei Pei, bringing him food and comforting him after the competition loss. They commiserated about Su Jue's methods and vowed to fight against him and expose his true self, with Shan Dandan pledging to remain his jade consultant. Cui Liu, harboring resentment towards Shan Dandan, sought an opportunity to cause trouble. She instructed a servant to discard jade scraps from the workshop and encouraged Shan Dandan to take them, calling her a "Country Bumpkin."

Shan Dandan collected the scraps, feeling it was wasteful to throw them away. Cui Liu then arranged for the main gate to be locked and publicly accused Shan Dandan of theft when she tried to leave with the scraps. Shan Dandan was brought before Lady Pei, who questioned why she would steal worthless scraps when more valuable items were available. Shan Dandan revealed that it was Pei Pei's previous idea to utilize scraps for low-cost jewelry.

She explained that her sister used to make and sell popular street jewelry from inexpensive materials and could transform the scraps into unique, affordable pieces. Lady Pei found the idea excellent, particularly given their recent loss of elite clients, suggesting they target ordinary people who value affordability. She ordered the workshop to immediately begin producing a jewelry series from the scraps under Shan Dandan's guidance, dismissing objections and praising Shan Dandan's initiative, which backfired on Cui Liu.

The next morning, Shan Dandan brought breakfast to Pei Pei. Cui Liu also arrived, offering tea and being overly attentive. Pei Pei was suspicious, even jokingly asking if she had poisoned his porridge. Cui Liu insisted she was merely fulfilling her duty and trying to make amends for falsely accusing Shan Dandan the previous day. Pei Pei remained unconvinced, implying he did not want her tea.

In front of the servants, Pei Pei made a declaration, stating that from then on, Shan Dandan was in charge, with full authority to direct and spend as needed, and anyone disobeying her orders would face severe consequences. He emphasized that they were to tolerate her direction, regardless of their personal opinions. Shan Dandan later met her sister, Shan Shuangshuang, to discuss the jade scrap project.

Shan Dandan explained her idea to use the scraps to create affordable, unique jewelry that could open a new market and benefit ordinary people, comparing the scraps favorably to the materials her sister used for street stall jewelry. Shan Shuangshuang agreed it was a good idea, acknowledging Lady Pei's support despite the competition loss. Shan Dandan mentioned facing resistance from others in the workshop.

Shan Shuangshuang agreed to help by drawing exquisite designs for her but stressed that it must remain a secret due to the rivalry between the Su and Pei families and the impropriety of her assisting the Pei family. Shan Dandan agreed, and Shan Shuangshuang privately wondered about the Pei family's true nature and whether they were truly friends or foes to her sister.

Shan Shuangshuang also visited Wang Shopkeeper at Su Jade Pavilion, bringing him soup and thanking him for his help during the competition. She inquired if the Pei family's recovery would be more difficult after their loss, which Wang Shopkeeper confirmed. She then questioned why Su Jue hadn't pressed the earlier accusation regarding the Moon Phoenix Crown.

Wang Shopkeeper explained that touching the crown would be a capital offense, and the Pei family would only risk selling the amber if they were in truly dire circumstances, which he believed was not yet the case. A'Liu gave Shan Dandan a doll. Cui Liu witnessed this and publicly accused Shan Dandan of having an affair with A'Liu and betraying Pei Pei. Pei Pei arrived and, after A'Liu began to explain about the doll, immediately believed A'Liu and Shan Dandan.

He confronted Cui Liu, stating he had overlooked her previous false accusation, but she had now tried to cause trouble again. He declared that Shan Dandan and A'Liu were the people closest to him and he would never believe Cui Liu over them. Cui Liu attempted to apologize and offered Shan Dandan a lipstick as a gift to make amends.

Pei Pei insisted she test it herself, prompting Cui Liu to confess it contained irritating substances intended to cause temporary sores. Calling her wicked, Pei Pei ordered her dismissed from the residence immediately. After Cui Liu's departure, Pei Pei reassured Shan Dandan. Upon hearing that Shan Dandan planned to meet her sister the next day, Pei Pei seemed curious or concerned and kept A'Liu occupied nearby.

Episode 8 Recap

Shan Shuangshuang showed her sister Shan Dandan a design for jade items, explaining the precise craftsmanship required. Shan Dandan was impressed, feeling that these designs would significantly help her improve her standing in the Pei family. As they talked, Painter Tan arrived, having been ordering materials for his fragrance business. He revealed he had recently opened a fragrance shop, putting aside painting for the moment, and invited them to visit.

They visited the Tan Fragrance Pavilion, where Painter Tan showed them various fragrant products like aromatic stones, sprays, and powders. He explained that the City Lord was currently promoting the fragrance trade, leading to increased competition and potential profit, which was why he had shifted his focus. Shan Shuangshuang remarked on his adaptability, and Painter Tan applied some fragrant powder to Shan Dandan.

As it grew dark, Pei Pei became worried because Shan Dandan had not returned home and went out to find her. Meanwhile, Su Jue was also concerned about Shan Shuangshuang's whereabouts. He went to the Auspicious Tea House, where he unexpectedly encountered Pei Pei. Recognizing each other's purpose in looking for the Shan sisters, they exchanged pointed insults about the women.

The tea house owner intervened, telling them the two women had left earlier with a painter and gone to a fragrance shop. Pei Pei and Su Jue immediately headed there. Outside the Tan Fragrance Pavilion, Pei Pei and Su Jue observed Shan Dandan, Shan Shuangshuang, and Painter Tan together. They saw Painter Tan interacting closely with both sisters, which made Pei Pei and Su Jue uncomfortable, but they decided not to interrupt.

After leaving, Su Jue commented that Shan Shuangshuang seemed interested in Painter Tan, while Pei Pei noted how gentle Shan Dandan appeared around him. They agreed that Painter Tan should not succeed with either sister and decided to ponder their next steps. Pei Pei mentioned that Painter Tan was an old acquaintance of Shan Dandan but admitted he didn't know much more about him.

Later, while eating with Pei Pei, Shan Dandan was wearing the fragrance powder Painter Tan had given her. Pei Pei reacted with jealousy upon hearing it was a special blend made for her, bringing up "old feelings." Shan Dandan denied any romantic involvement with Painter Tan, clarifying they had just attended the fragrance shop's opening. She compared Pei Pei's reaction to his sending away his former attendant Cui Liu, arguing that Painter Tan was different.

Changing the subject, Shan Dandan proposed combining jade jewelry with fragrances, believing it would be hugely successful and help surpass Su Jue. Pei Pei immediately rejected the idea, refusing to cooperate with Painter Tan. Undeterred, Shan Dandan declared she would pursue the fragrant jade idea on her own.

In the Su Jade Pavilion, Shan Shuangshuang reflected on her goal to recover the Phoenix Crown, believing that pushing the Pei family to the brink of financial ruin might force them to reveal its location. Su Jue arrived, visibly angry. He admitted he was frustrated and jealous because he had seen her interacting with Painter Tan. Shan Shuangshuang explained that Painter Tan was only Shan Dandan's acquaintance and she had simply met him by chance with no improper behavior.

She also reminded Su Jue that their relationship was strictly master and servant, and his agitation was unnecessary. Su Jue was momentarily speechless. Shan Shuangshuang then proposed developing low-cost fragmented jade jewelry, an idea she had previously considered. She argued that if they launched this business now, capitalize on the Pei family's weakened state after the Jade Competition, they could eliminate the Pei family as competitors. Su Jue initially disagreed but eventually conceded and approved the plan.

Pei Pei, hoping to appease Shan Dandan, arranged for peach blossom-flavored treats to be made, inspired by the fragrance powder Painter Tan had given her. While discussing business with Shopkeeper Hao, he learned Painter Tan had arrived to see Shan Dandan. Shan Dandan went to meet Painter Tan, and Pei Pei followed with the pastries. Painter Tan was actually meeting with Old Madam Pei to discuss Shan Dandan's idea of adding fragrance to jade.

Painter Tan proposed methods like infusing or attaching aromatic pieces to the jade and discussed the duration of the scent and the potential for a refill partnership. Old Madam Pei was supportive, praising Shan Dandan's innovative thinking. Pei Pei entered and vehemently opposed the idea, calling it merely a "trick" and not a legitimate technique, arguing it would tarnish the Pei family's legacy. Painter Tan countered that clinging to outdated notions was detrimental.

Their argument was interrupted by a messenger announcing that the City Lord had summoned Pei Pei. At the Hall of Proclamation, Pei Pei found Su Jue also present. The City Lord showed them fragrant jade pieces from Clear Water City, explaining that this new product was attracting merchants and harming Jade Cloud City's reputation as the top jade city.

He ordered both Pei Pei and Su Jue to quickly produce high-quality fragrant jade, exceeding the quality of Clear Water City's products, and emphasized the need for them to collaborate sincerely despite their rivalry for the city's benefit. Back at the Pei Residence, Shan Dandan playfully mocked Pei Pei for now being forced to pursue the fragrant jade idea he had initially opposed. Pei Pei acknowledged the situation but vowed they would produce fragrant jade of unparalleled quality.

Shan Dandan praised him, calling him a genius whose idea could save Jade Cloud City, and shared a kiss with him in encouragement. In the Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue expressed his dissatisfaction with the City Lord's order to collaborate with Pei Pei, seeing it as just another form of competition. His servant suggested Shan Shuangshuang approach the owner of Tan Fragrance Pavilion to learn techniques since she knew him.

Su Jue, still sensitive about Painter Tan, decided he would go himself to discuss collaboration. The following day, Su Jue arrived at the Tan Fragrance Pavilion only to find Pei Pei already there, discussing the same matter. The two immediately engaged in a verbal sparring match. Su Jue boasted about having already started making fragrant jade pendants with Shan Shuangshuang using Painter Tan's fragrances.

Pei Pei retorted by mentioning that Shan Dandan was waiting for him downstairs, suggesting their team was more advanced. Pei Pei then left to meet Shan Dandan, leaving Su Jue feeling solitary as Shan Shuangshuang had not yet shown him such personal care. Pei Pei rejoined Shan Dandan downstairs, sharing candied hawthorn. They discussed Su Jue obtaining fragrances from Painter Tan and their progress, realizing they needed to work quickly.

Both teams, Pei Pei with Shan Dandan and Su Jue with Shan Shuangshuang, began their efforts to create fragrant jade, relying on Painter Tan's fragrances. Shan Dandan worked through the night researching how to best incorporate fragrance into jade. She concluded that jade itself was too dense, but porous limestone could be cut into thin slices and inlaid to hold the scent without affecting the jade's appearance.

Pei Pei praised her ingenuity but suggested aventurine might be a better choice due to its color blending better with jade. Agreeing to proceed, they went to see Shopkeeper Hao to discuss promoting their proposed fragrant jade bracelets. However, they found the atmosphere at the shop grim. Shopkeeper Hao revealed that their low-cost fragmented jade jewelry business was failing because Su Jade Pavilion had launched identical items two days prior, with better craftsmanship and lower prices.

Su Jue's claim that he designed the pieces to benefit low-income families boosted their sales while damaging the Pei family's reputation and leaving them with unsellable inventory, a significant blow after their Jade Competition loss. Shan Dandan immediately went to confront Shan Shuangshuang, who was also at the cloth store, asking how Su Jade Pavilion had obtained the fragmented jade designs.

Shan Shuangshuang claimed ignorance, stating they were old designs from her apprenticeship days and she had only found out about Su Jade Pavilion selling them that morning. She explained Su Jue claiming authorship was merely a marketing tactic. Shan Dandan lamented the severe impact on the Pei family's business. As Shan Dandan left to find a solution, Shan Shuangshuang expressed regret that her designs had caused trouble, and called out that she would not deceive her again.

Episode 9 Recap

Su Jue arrived at his uncle's place, expressing his satisfaction with Su Jade Pavilion's recent success. He credited Shan Shuangshuang's idea to sell fragmented jade jewelry, which he noted had sold out instantly, boosting sales significantly and surpassing the large jade ornaments. He gloated that Precious Pei Pavilion's attempt to do the same had backfired, leading to ridicule for imitation and poor sales. Su Jue praised Shan Shuangshuang, calling her a treasure and acknowledging his previous immaturity.

Shan Shuangshuang, however, appeared subdued, stating that while it was good for Su Jade Pavilion, it put her sister, Shan Dandan, in a tough spot, and seeing her anxious made her unhappy. Su Jue suggested Shan Dandan join Su Jade Pavilion, but Shan Shuangshuang politely declined, stating everyone has their own aspirations.

After they left, the uncle remembered a past event involving the Moon Phoenix Crown and a time when Shan Shuangshuang's father entrusted his daughters to his care before his death from poisoning, telling him the fog was poisonous. Shan Dandan knelt before the Old Madam's room, seeking forgiveness for the losses incurred from the fragmented jade venture. The Old Madam gently helped her up, stating the idea wasn't bad, proven by the Su family copying it.

She attributed their loss to being slow to act and dismissed the 1,800 silver taels as bearable, emphasizing that they wouldn't starve and had faced worse storms. The Old Madam stressed the importance of the City Lord's order and told Shan Dandan and Pei Pei to focus on the fragrant jade jewelry to turn things around. Moved by the Old Madam's kindness, Shan Dandan accidentally fell, causing her to tumble.

Back in her room, Shan Dandan was being looked after by Pei Pei. He teased her about being clumsy but assured her he had already prepared everything for the fragrant bracelets and planned to start presales soon to recover the losses. He urged her to focus on healing quickly, knowing she was strong and recovered fast. Pei Pei discussed their financial struggles with the Old Madam, suggesting they needed to cut costs.

The Old Madam reiterated that while things were difficult, they could still survive, even if it meant selling assets. She encouraged Pei Pei and Shan Dandan to push forward with the fragrant jade jewelry, expressing confidence in Shan Dandan's innovative ideas being superior to Su Jade Pavilion's. Suddenly, an angry crowd arrived at Precious Pei Pavilion.

A man claimed his wife became covered in red blisters, delirious, and feverish after wearing a fragrant jade bracelet bought from their shop just hours earlier. He accused the pavilion of selling fake goods and demanded an explanation, while others testified to buying similar bracelets. Despite Pei Pei's initial denial and attempt to verify if the bracelet was theirs, the crowd became enraged, attempting to smash the signboard and the shop.

Pei Pei and Shan Dandan tried to calm them, with Pei Pei shielding Shan Dandan from harm. He promised a full explanation and responsibility if their bracelet was indeed the cause, and offered money for the man to find a doctor for his wife, but the man refused, giving them two days to provide results or face severe consequences.

The incident severely impacted all Precious Pei Pavilion shops, facing protests and demands to close, threatening their ability to stay in business for more than a month on their current savings. Painter Tan arrived, stating his aromatics, used in the bracelets, were made from non-toxic plants and supplied to many shops, including Su Jade Pavilion, without issues. He suggested the incident was a framing scheme rather than a problem with the aromatics or jade.

Pei Pei's mother agreed, acknowledging that if the aromatics were the issue, the farmer who touched the jade would also be ill. They concluded someone was using the couple to cause trouble. The Old Madam gave them three days to find the truth and restore Precious Pei Pavilion's reputation, with Painter Tan offering his expertise on aromatics and poisons to help the investigation. Meanwhile, Su Jue and his uncle discussed the events at Precious Pei Pavilion, finding it strange.

Initially, they suspected Shan Shuangshuang, but she denied involvement, stating she would never do anything to harm lives and lacked the ability for such a scheme. They realized none of them were behind it, leading Su Jue to decide they must investigate quickly, both to find the truth and to protect Su Jade Pavilion, which also dealt with fragrant jade and could face similar accusations, especially given the City Lord's order. Shan Shuangshuang offered to help with an idea.

Pei Pei took Shan Dandan out to investigate. He tried to disguise her as a man, believing it would be inconvenient for a woman, but people on the street immediately recognized her as a woman, making the disguise pointless. Pei Pei also spoke with Painter Tan, warning him against inappropriate thoughts towards Shan Dandan.

Painter Tan expressed concern for Shan Dandan, feeling her life had become more complicated since joining Precious Pei Pavilion, suggesting she was more content and carefree when doing various simple jobs, including assisting him with painting. Shan Dandan quickly gathered information, discovering the troubled couple was new to the area and poor, making their purchase of a presale bracelet strange, as was their refusal of money and focus on causing a scene. She deduced they were being used by someone.

Given that both Precious Pei and Su Jade Pavilions used the same fragrance batch without issue at Su Jade Pavilion, the others suspected Su Jue. However, Pei Pei defended him, arguing it was too obvious and counterproductive for Su Jue, who risked his high status and the City Lord's project if the issue affected his business. He believed someone else was responsible. Seeking the truth, they went to the couple's house, deciding on a three-step strategy: entice, deceive, and force.

Pei Pei first attempted to entice the man by pretending to be sent by a "master" to give him extra silver, but the man adamantly denied any involvement, insisting he was mistaken and knew no such master. Pei Pei then attempted to deceive him by claiming his boss had been caught and confessed, demanding he confess as well, but the man continued to deny everything and ordered him to leave.

As Pei Pei prepared to use force, thugs arrived, demanding protection money from the man. The man pleaded with the thugs, explaining his wife was gravely ill due to Precious Pei Pavilion's bracelet and he had spent all his money on medicine, leaving him unable to pay. This revelation convinced Pei Pei and his group that the man was not framing Precious Pei Pavilion for money and that they had misjudged him. Pei Pei intervened, driving the thugs away.

The grateful man explained they were poor tea farmers who saved up to buy the bracelet as a gift for his wife after years of hardship, only for her to get poisoned. Shan Dandan observed that the symptoms might not be solely due to the fragrance, suggesting the need for further investigation into the cause. The man revealed he had thrown the bracelet into the river after the incident.

Meanwhile, Su Jue and Shan Shuangshuang visited Doctor Qu, a skilled physician living in seclusion. They described the woman's symptoms: sores, dark circles, shivering, delirium, and talking nonsense. Doctor Qu, after hearing the symptoms, concluded it was not ordinary poisoning but caused by Tame Head Herb, a mix of medicine and sorcery he hadn't seen in a long time. He stated he did have a way to cure it.

Guided by the man, Pei Pei and his group headed towards the small river to search for the bracelet. As they approached, they were intercepted by the same thugs Pei Pei had driven away earlier. Realizing they were heavily outnumbered, Pei Pei instructed A'Liu to go back for help while the rest prepared to hold them off.

Episode 10 Recap

Several people are captured and held captive in a courtyard. The thugs holding them comment on their fear, especially of chickens, calling them soft city folks. They notice Pei Pei's chest appears puffy and search him, thinking he is hiding money. Pei Pei inwardly wonders if these are the only idiots who cannot tell he is a woman. The thugs hear a woman's voice.

Pei Pei fakes a high-pitched voice, and the thugs become excited, realizing there is a girl among the captives. They decide to inform their leader, anticipating a night of entertainment. Meanwhile, A'Liu is frantically searching for help. He encounters Shan Shuangshuang and Su Jue in the street and breathlessly informs them that his young master and Shan Dandan have been kidnapped by thugs. Su Jue and Shan Shuangshuang immediately decide to go rescue them.

The thugs bring their leader to see the captive girl. The leader is struck by how much Pei Pei resembles someone important to him. He insists that Pei Pei be taken to his wife's room to change into her clothes and put on makeup. After the change, the leader is even more astonished, proclaiming that Pei Pei looks exactly like his wife. Just then, Su Jue and Shan Shuangshuang arrive with a group of people, demanding the thugs stop.

Pei Pei emerges in his disguise, feeling mortified upon seeing Su Jue witness his predicament. Su Jue, initially surprised, teases him mercilessly. Soon after, A'Liu arrives with more reinforcements, and the thugs are quickly subdued. Su Jue continues to make fun of Pei Pei's appearance in the woman's attire. Continuing their investigation, Pei Pei and Su Jue travel together, still engaging in sharp-tongued banter. They return to the home of the woman who was poisoned.

Shan Shuangshuang examines the woman and confirms she has been poisoned by Yin-Yang Tame Head Herb. She explains the nature of the poison and its severe effects, stating that without timely treatment, the person becomes like a walking corpse. The woman's husband pleads with Shan Shuangshuang to save his wife. Shan Shuangshuang prepares to treat her, requesting specific items. During the treatment, she uses acupressure to aid the process. Su Jue observes her technique with surprise.

Shan Shuangshuang quickly explains that she learned this skill from Doctor Qu to block acupoints and prevent blood flow. With help from A'Yu, medicine is brewed, and after initial treatment, Shan Shuangshuang states that a few doses should lead to recovery, confirming the poison was not too deeply embedded. The husband expresses immense gratitude for saving his wife's life.

The group discusses why someone unrelated to the aromatic jade project would be poisoned, wondering if it is connected to the project or a personal vendetta against Precious Pei Pavilion. The woman wakes up and recounts her experience. She confirms she bought the new aromatic bracelet but later, on her way home, she passed a sewing shop and was approached by a woman who recommended a new "seven-colored thread," saying it was much softer than the bracelet's five-colored thread.

The woman bought a piece of the seven-colored thread and replaced the original. Shan Shuangshuang examines the thread the woman bought and discovers the poison is embedded within its husk. She explains how the Yin and Yang threads of this type cannot be separated by burning, and they realize the villain found a way to infuse the poison into this tiny connecting thread.

The woman could not recall what the woman who sold her the thread looked like, only that she seemed upright and was pretty. Since the aromatic jade itself was not the source of the poison, Tan Qinghe is cleared of suspicion and takes his leave. The farmer couple, feeling remorseful for having blamed Precious Pei Pavilion earlier, offer them a meal and a place to stay the night.

Pei Pei agrees, noting the late hour and the danger of traveling at night in the countryside. Shan Shuangshuang also agrees to stay. Su Jue and A'Yu go to the Facet Sewing Shop to investigate, sending people to keep watch overnight and attempt to sneak in. Su Jue reflects that this matter is not simple, especially considering Precious Pei Pavilion's low-key reputation in recent years, making it unlikely they would have made such deeply grudged enemies.

He emphasizes the need to uncover the truth, also mentioning the safety of Shan Shuangshuang as a reason for his involvement. Meanwhile, Shan Dandan shares her life's dream with Pei Pei: to become a successful jade consultant and eventually open a jade shop with her sister to live a carefree life. Pei Pei reassures her, promising he will not let her suffer anymore and will help her achieve her dream.

Suddenly, Shan Dandan remembers Pei Pei's impressive imitation of a woman earlier that day and jokingly asks if he learned it from the courtesans at Full Bloom House. Pei Pei denies it, but Shan Dandan teases him playfully, chasing him and accusing him of learning from other girls. Later, Su Jue receives a report from A'Yu that the surveillance at the sewing shop revealed nothing suspicious throughout the night.

A'Yu managed to sneak in during the quiet hours but found the shop exceptionally clean, as if it had been recently tidied, which felt strange. Su Jue finds this odd. Just then, someone rushes in with urgent news, calling Su Jue to Full Bloom House. At Full Bloom House, Madam Yang is in a panic, angrily accusing Su Jade Pavilion's fragrant jewelry of causing the girls to be poisoned.

She includes Tan Fragrance Pavilion in her blame since Su Jade Pavilion uses their spices. She describes how over a dozen girls have become like insane walking corpses, biting anyone they encounter, forcing her to lock them away. Pei Pei and Shan Dandan arrive, and Madam Yang reiterates her accusations. Shan Dandan points out that the farmer woman did not exhibit these severe symptoms, suggesting the situation at Full Bloom House is more complex.

Despite the eerie transformation of the once-lively brothel into a terrifying place, they decide they must enter to try and save the girls. They nervously make their way inside, staying close together. Suddenly, several infected girls appear and aggressively attack them. They scatter in fear and try to escape. Pei Pei quickly pulls Shan Dandan under a table for cover. Shan Dandan suggests holding their breath, which they attempt, but they are soon discovered. Taking advantage of the moment, they break free and continue running to escape the attacking girls.

Episode 11 Recap

Chaos erupts as several women chase Shan Dandan through the streets. She becomes separated from Pei Pei, who searches for her. Shan Shuangshuang finds her sister, ensuring her safety. The attacking women suddenly collapse, trembling, and faint. Pei Pei directs someone to fetch a doctor while he inquires about the first sick girl, Hua Dian, and searches for Painter Tan. Pei Pei finds Shan Dandan and they discuss how the women collapsed after attacking her.

They examine the women's jade earrings, noting the absence of colorful threads. Su Jue reports finding no colorful threads on any of the girls or in the rooms he searched, but confirms they all show severe symptoms of Yin-Yang Tame Head Herb poisoning. They conclude the poison must have been introduced via the colorful threads and their only lead is the sewing shop.

They visit the sewing shop, where the owner is defensive, denying any involvement in the poisoning incident and suggesting it was someone else's trap. Pei Pei asks if he recently hired any temporary workers. The owner describes hiring a fair, neat, slender woman of a certain height for temporary assistance. Pei Pei recognizes the description but is then summoned to the City Lord's Hall. The City Lord is furious, blaming them for the disaster and public panic.

Pei Pei informs him they found colorful threads laced with Yin-Yang Tame Head Herb. Su Jue adds that the poisoned victims are likely connected to it. The City Lord dismisses their findings as fabricated and orders their arrest. Pei Pei pleads for one more day to solve the case, offering his life as collateral if they fail. The City Lord reluctantly grants the extension but warns he will execute them if they don't provide a satisfactory explanation by tomorrow evening.

At the Pei Residence, guards arrive and announce the City Lord's order that the head of Precious Pei Pavilion, Pei Pei's mother, is under house arrest and faces public execution tomorrow evening if the case is not resolved. Pei Pei's mother encourages him to focus on the investigation. At Su Jue's residence, guards issue a similar order: Su Jue is taken into custody under house arrest to continue his investigation, facing beheading tomorrow if he fails.

Su Jue's uncle offers to take his place but is refused, as only the official master is acceptable. Shan Dandan is seen with documents, revealing she has altered the name of the family head to her own, intending to take Pei Pei's mother's place as the hostage. She clarifies it's not for inheritance but to protect the Old Madam, who has treated her like family since childhood. Shan Dandan is willing to sacrifice herself.

Pei Pei is touched but explains her substitution wouldn't be accepted by the City Lord due to her status, and even immediate marriage wouldn't change the legal head of family instantly due to the required application process. Suddenly, Cui Liu is brought in, having been caught. Pei Pei confronts her, accusing her of harmful actions. Cui Liu expresses confusion, but Pei Pei presses her about hiding near the sewing shop and temporary work there, connecting it to the incident.

Cui Liu admits she was wrong and pleads for mercy from Pei Pei's mother. Old Madam Pei expresses disappointment. Pei Pei asks who put her up to it, promising to seek leniency if she helps. Cui Liu confesses that, fueled by jealousy towards Shan Dandan, she went to a temple and wished for Shan Dandan to leave Pei Pei. There, a masked individual appeared, offering to help get Shan Dandan removed if she cooperated.

The masked person gave her a box and instructed her to get a temporary job at the West Market sewing shop, later instructing her to mix the contents with the colorful threads. She claims she didn't anticipate the severe consequences. She met the masked person by leaving a symbol at the old temple but never saw their face clearly. Shan Dandan proposes using Cui Liu to lure the masked person to the temple.

Pei Pei plans an ambush, while Su Jue says he must go somewhere else, agreeing to meet later. Su Jue's subordinate reports finding the Yin-Yang Tame Head Herb is from the Western Region, new to the Central Plains, but was grown nine years ago in Clear Water City. Su Jue immediately sends someone to investigate Clear Water City.

Worried about Su Jade Pavilion's fate, Su Jue urges Shan Shuangshuang to be ready to flee with their wealth if he is executed, asking her to leave instantly upon receiving the order. Shan Shuangshuang refuses, stating she would never abandon him or her sister, as they are her deepest concerns. Su Jue is moved by her loyalty and vows to protect her. Cui Liu meets the masked person at the Eternal Blessing Temple.

She is terrified by the scale of the incident and wants to quit. The masked person states that quitting is only possible through death and attempts to kill her. A'Liu intervenes but is wounded. Pei Pei, Shan Dandan, and others arrive. Pei Pei confronts the masked person, identifying him as "Painter Tan" and accusing him of orchestrating the poisoning from the beginning.

He points out clues like "Painter Tan"'s timely departure allowing him to clean the sewing shop and his suspicious disappearance at Full Bloom House. The masked person acknowledges Pei Pei's analysis but implies Pei Pei has misjudged him. The masked person attacks. Su Jue arrives with his group, confirming they also traced the case and rushed to the temple. Su Jue notes a specific scent and affirms his suspicions were correct.

The masked person releases a swarm of butterflies that emit a poisonous gas, incapacitating everyone except Shan Shuangshuang. Unaffected, Shan Shuangshuang fights the masked person, eventually stabbing him in the abdomen and rendering him unconscious. Shan Shuangshuang administers antidotes, and everyone gradually revives. The masked person also regains consciousness. Just as he prepares to resume the fight, "Painter Tan" arrives with his own group, leading to confusion. The masked person removes his mask, revealing he is identical to "Painter Tan".

Shan Dandan explains she and Pei Pei had previously noticed "Painter Tan" acting differently and, through careful observation and analysis of his behavior, particularly attempts to manipulate them, they realized he had been replaced. The masked person is revealed to be "Painter Tan"'s twin brother, Tan Qingbo, from Clear Water City. " Painter Tan" pleads with Tan Qingbo to stop. Tan Qingbo refuses, stating he has his own ambitions and won't live subserviently like his brother.

He reminds "Painter Tan" they are sons of Clear Water City's Guard Commander and that "Painter Tan" was sent to Jade Cloud City as a spy. Tan Qingbo is angered by what he perceives as his brother's lack of ambition and betrayal, while "Painter Tan" argues he didn't choose his spy life and now has his own path.

Tan Qingbo explains Clear Water City's long suffering under Jade Cloud City and how the Fragrant jade jewelry business offered a chance for survival, which the Jade Cloud City Lord then copied to stifle them. He implies he had to impersonate his brother when "Painter Tan" refused to help their cause. Su Jue and Pei Pei urge Tan Qingbo to surrender, offering to plead for mercy. Tan Qingbo rejects their pity, prepared to fight to the death. "

Painter Tan" desperately begs his brother to stop, threatening suicide. As "Painter Tan" cries out, soldiers from Jade Cloud City arrive. Cornered, Tan Qingbo declares he cannot face his father or the people of Clear Water City in defeat and takes his own life rather than surrender. " Painter Tan" is distraught, crying out for his brother not to leave him.

Shan Dandan reflects on the ordeal, finding closure in the resolution of the case involving Tan Qingbo and Cui Liu, but expressing concern for "Painter Tan." She plans to visit him in a few days. Meeting with Old Madam Pei, Shan Dandan is thanked profusely and called a blessing for uncovering the truth and clearing the family's name.

Old Madam Pei notes that public support surged once Clear Water City's involvement was revealed, leading to record sales that far exceed losses and surpass Su Jade Pavilion. The City Lord has also praised Precious Pei Pavilion for solving the case and promised rewards.

Old Madam Pei then announces Shan Dandan's promotion to Deputy Shopkeeper and Chief Jade Consultant of Precious Pei Pavilion, with a significant increase in bonus and vacation time, though Shan Dandan opts out of the days off for a higher bonus. Shan Dandan is overjoyed and expresses her gratitude, celebrating that her dream has come true. Pei Pei congratulates her and tells her he has a further reward for her, asking her to follow him.

Episode 12 Recap

After the case was solved, Su Jue took Shan Shuangshuang to a refined spot in the night market, noting that refinement and romance were about who you were with. He told her she had a hard time and it was his fault for not arranging better, but she thanked him for his care. They browsed shops selling high-priced goods like pastries and candied hawthorns.

At a wishing bridge, Shan Shuangshuang wished for justice and for people to live openly and joyfully. Su Jue promised he would protect her from injustice if she trusted him and would protect her all her life. However, Shan Shuangshuang had an internal conflict, questioning how she could develop feelings for Su Jue when she still didn't know if he was her father's killer, feeling she would dishonor her father by continuing this way.

Meanwhile, Pei Pei and Shan Dandan also enjoyed the night market. Shan Dandan was proud of her new role as Deputy Shopkeeper at Precious Pei Pavilion. Pei Pei playfully teased her, asking if her hard work was because she feared being replaced and if she had someone else in her heart, which flustered her. At Precious Pei Pavilion, City Lord bestowed a plaque reading "Eternal Jade Merchant" to acknowledge their contributions to solving the case.

Interpreting this as praise for their virtue and talent, Pei Pei decided to hold a grand feast to reward everyone. Shan Dandan suggested they also invite her sister and the Su family, acknowledging their crucial help. Pei Pei doubted Su Jue would come, expecting them to be upset, but Shan Dandan argued inviting them showed magnanimity. Shan Shuangshuang continued to struggle with her emotions towards Su Jue, reflecting on his promise to protect her.

She firmly decided they could not continue like this, as allowing romantic feelings to cloud her judgment would dishonor her father. She resolved to make a clean break. Shortly after, she received an invitation from the Pei family, inviting Young Master Su and herself to a feast thanking them for their help. Examining the invitation with its gold and silver inlay, she recalled Pei Pei's knowledge of techniques related to the Moon Phoenix Crown.

She contrasted this with Su Jue, who seemed unaware of the past and techniques, reinforcing her growing suspicion that the Pei family was more questionable than the Su family. She concluded she needed to speed up her investigation. At Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue and Shopkeeper Wang were furious that the Pei family received all the credit for the case despite their own risks and efforts.

They called it despicable and noted the Pei family's sudden popularity with fragrant jade bracelets. They resolved to quickly find a way to suppress them. Shan Shuangshuang arrived with the invitation from the Pei family. Su Jue, in his anger, called the invitation pure hypocrisy and refused to attend. When Shan Shuangshuang asked if she could go, he allowed it since Shan Dandan was her sister, saying he wouldn't stop her if she wanted to go.

After she left, Shopkeeper Wang expressed his suspicion about Shan Shuangshuang to Su Jue, finding her too calm and questioning her true relationship with her sister and the Pei family. He pointed out that since she entered their residence, information from Precious Pei Pavilion had dried up. Su Jue defended her, mentioning her innovative fragmented jade jewelry which caught the Pei family off guard. But Shopkeeper Wang insisted something about her was odd and suggested they test her.

Shan Shuangshuang attended the feast at Precious Pei Pavilion. Pei Pei toasted her righteousness and skill. Shan Dandan praised her sister's unparalleled gold and silver inlay, which Pei Pei agreed was comparable to the Moon Phoenix Crown. Shan Shuangshuang questioned his knowledge of the crown, and Pei Pei explained the jade fan's silk thread carving technique originated from it, and he had the fortune to see the crown once as a child.

Shan Shuangshuang mentioned she learned gold and silver inlay from a traveling performer. Pei Pei then steered the conversation towards eating. During the meal, Shan Dandan expressed her wish for her sister to always be by her side and suggested she join Precious Pei Pavilion. Pei Pei readily supported the idea. Shan Shuangshuang agreed, delighting Shan Dandan who immediately welcomed her as the new designer. Later, Shan Shuangshuang visited her parents' grave.

She remembered her father's dying words: he was exploited, the amber on the phoenix crown wasn't medicine, he was sorry, and she should not seek revenge as it was due to his own foolish mistakes. She lamented his refusal to give any clues, which left her with no direction after years of fruitless searching in the Su family.

Noting her increased suspicion of the Pei family, she decided it was time to leave the Su family and investigate the Pei family. Returning to Su Jade Pavilion, Shan Shuangshuang found Su Jue and Shopkeeper Wang waiting for news. A subordinate reported that the Phoenix Crown had been found deep in the forest in front of the Tomb of Life and Death, but the jade key was missing. He claimed the informant was reliable.

Su Jue ordered them to quickly find the key to retrieve the treasure. Shan Shuangshuang used their busy state as an excuse to leave, saying she wouldn't disturb them. Su Jue agreed, but had an internal thought hoping she wasn't involved. Back at Precious Pei Pavilion, Shan Dandan was visibly enjoying her role as Deputy Shopkeeper, having a subordinate fetch her an abacus.

Pei Pei teased her, implying her enthusiasm stemmed from insecurity about her position, asking if she feared being replaced or had feelings for someone else, which flustered her. Su Jue arrived, asking for Shan Shuangshuang, but claimed he came to see Shan Dandan to talk about her sister. He confessed his long-time admiration for Shan Shuangshuang and desire to know more about her to take better care of her, as she was usually reserved.

Shan Dandan insisted her understanding of her sister was no greater than his, explaining that since their parents were gone and her sister made a living outside while she stayed home, they hadn't had deep conversations. Su Jue questioned if she knew anything about Shan Shuangshuang's activities, or if she practiced medicine or martial arts, especially after her bloodletting detox. Shan Dandan denied knowing anything, describing her sister as gentle and frail, only capable of making jewelry, not fighting.

Su Jue pointed out it was strange that someone so frail could overcome dangers and care for her for years, which made Shan Dandan admit her sister was indeed incredible and promised to pay more attention. Su Jue internally wondered if Dan Dan truly knew little or was wary of him. Pei Pei arrived, interrupting their conversation and announcing he was taking Dan Dan home, prompting Su Jue to leave.

Immediately after, a subordinate named A-liu reported that Sun Wu, a master gold and silver solderer who worked on the Moon Phoenix Crown, had news. A-liu's friend had met Sun Wu's only apprentice, who, while drunk, revealed the crown's location. Pei Pei decided they should discuss this at home. A-liu admitted the apprentice was timid, didn't know where the jade key was, had only heard the location from someone, and had since moved. Shan Dandan worried it was a trap.

Pei Pei acknowledged that Sun Wu was involved in the original incident and his apprentice might know the truth. He stated that even if it was a trap, he had to seek the truth that night to clear his family's name from the long-standing accusation that they stole the crown to monopolize jade skills and treasures, an accusation that had caused his father great distress and forbidden him from the jade industry.

Later that night, Su Jue and Shopkeeper Wang lay in ambush at the location mentioned, waiting for the Pei family. Shopkeeper Wang questioned why Shan Shuangshuang wasn't being watched. Su Jue's attendant explained she went out to buy materials and he didn't stop her to avoid leaking information. Wang was suspicious of the timing but decided that if she showed up here, they could catch her. A masked figure approached. Wang ordered his men to fire arrows.

Su Jue yelled at his uncle to stop, trying to protect the figure, but was shot in the arm by a poisoned arrow. The figure turned out to be a mountain bandit drawn by rumors of treasure, not Shan Shuangshuang. Seeing the arrow was poisoned, Wang immediately ordered Su Jue taken back to the mansion for a physician, leaving men to wait for Pei's group.

As Su Jue was being taken away, a masked Shan Shuangshuang arrived and confronted Su Jue's attendant. He recognized her and admitted he was no match. She threatened him and his family if he revealed her presence, but stated she wouldn't kill him as he wasn't a bad person. She then revealed her intention to enter Su Residence to find the Phoenix Crown, emphasizing she wasn't greedy and wouldn't harm the Su family unless they acted without decency.

She questioned if Su Jue had ever treated the attendant as human. The attendant, seemingly swayed by her words and previous treatment, thanked her for her mercy. He then betrayed Su Jue, revealing that Su Jue and Shopkeeper Wang had not only deceived her but also sent false information to the Pei family, framing them for hiding the Phoenix Crown at the jade mine in the western mountains. He urged her to quickly go and save her sister.

Meanwhile, Pei Pei and his men were on their way to the supposed location of the Phoenix Crown. They had been walking all night, growing tired and disoriented in the dark forest, complaining about the difficulty of the terrain and the seeming endlessness of the journey. Finally, they detected a pleasant smell.

Episode 13 Recap

They had been walking all night, yet the destination remained elusive, the scenery repetitive and the terrain difficult. Suddenly, they noticed a pleasant fragrance. Shan Shuangshuang, having released a confusing scent to delay them and prevent them from falling into Su Jue's trap, watched as Pei Pei, Shan Dandan, and A'Liu succumbed to its effects, acting playfully and calling out names.

Pei Pei, in a state of hallucination, called out for "Cui Liu" and nearly kissed Shan Dandan, mistaking her for the other woman. He then jolted awake, realizing they had been drugged, and quickly roused Shan Dandan and A'Liu, urging them to leave immediately. When they finally reached the intended meeting spot, no one was there. On the ground, they found a jade key bearing a micro-carving technique unique to the Pei family.

Pei Pei realized they had been set up. The coincidences were designed to frame the Pei family for the theft of the crown, specifically suggesting the key to the crown's hiding place came from them. Arriving at night and potentially being seen would make it impossible to clear their name. They concluded that the person who had drugged them had inadvertently saved them by delaying their arrival, but they couldn't determine if this person was a friend or foe.

With the risk of being discovered, they decided to return home immediately. Meanwhile, Su Jue, who had been poisoned, was being treated by a doctor and attended by Shopkeeper Wang. The doctor stated that while his life wasn't in danger, the toxins hadn't fully dispersed. Lady Shan Shuangshuang arrived, and Shopkeeper Wang questioned her about the accident. Shuangshuang claimed it was just an accident and provided a top-quality red jade powder, explaining its healing properties.

Su Jue soon woke and immediately apologized to Shuangshuang, admitting he was wrong and had doubted her based on rumors, setting a trap for her. He told her he was relieved when the person under the mask wasn't her. Shuangshuang, however, brushed it off and advised him to rest. She privately considered that the Su Family already suspected her identity and the Pei Family now seemed suspicious as well, feeling it was time to move on.

Back at Precious Pei Pavilion, Pei Pei suspected the Su family was behind the framing. Shan Dandan disagreed, citing Su Jue's helpfulness in previous matters and his apparent feelings for her sister. Pei Pei still felt a bad premonition about the Moon Phoenix Crown issue resurfacing. Shan Dandan, however, focused on the positive: their business was thriving, and her sister was coming to help.

She then playfully confronted Pei Pei about calling out "Cui Liu" while he was drugged, teasing him until he admitted he was wrong to appease her. Fully recovered, Su Jue sought out Shan Shuangshuang, deeply apologetic for having unjustly treated her and suspected her of the recent misfortunes at Su Jade Pavilion. As a token of apology and affection, he presented her with the "Mandarin Duck" jade carving from the competition, explaining it was meant for her.

He confessed his feelings, expressing how she had captivated him from her first day, admiring her talent and character, and realizing how important she was to him after facing hardships together. He then proposed marriage, promising to treat her well. Shan Shuangshuang, however, gently refused, stating she had never considered romantic feelings between them and only saw him as her master.

Su Jue, confused and hurt, offered to give her all of Su Jade Pavilion's wealth, wondering if her refusal was related to the success of Precious Pei Pavilion. Shuangshuang reiterated that her feelings weren't tied to such things, comparing it to blind mandarin ducks where choosing a partner isn't about appearances. She then informed him that she had decided to resign to be with her sister at Precious Pei Pavilion.

Su Jue was devastated, asking why she would choose his enemy after he had been so good to her. Shuangshuang insisted that their paths were decided by destiny and asked him to let her go. She confirmed her decision and apologized. Left alone, Su Jue collapsed, recalling a childhood memory of his father scolding him for not being able to defeat the "scoundrel of the Pei Family" and threatening to disown him.

Filled with bitterness, he vowed revenge on Pei Pei and Precious Pei Pavilion. At Precious Pei Pavilion, several noble ladies complained about the repetitive designs of the fragrant jewelry. They requested Shan Dandan create unique, higher-quality pieces with special fragrances, willing to pay significantly more. Dandan agreed to undertake the complex and costly development. Just then, A'Liu excitedly announced that Lady Shan Shuangshuang had arrived, expressing his immense joy that she would finally be staying at their home.

Shan Dandan welcomed her sister warmly, expressing happiness at their reunion and the prospect of living together. A'Liu awkwardly offered to accompany them as Dandan showed Shuangshuang her designated room. Shuangshuang noted that despite Dandan's promotion to Deputy Shopkeeper, she still lived in the maids' quarters, though Dandan seemed content with the spacious room. They then went to the workshop, where A'Liu had prepared everything. Dandan assigned Shuangshuang to gold and silver jewelry design, her area of expertise.

Inwardly, Shuangshuang felt that the specific work didn't matter; her primary goal was to investigate the cause of her parents' deaths. A'Liu approached Shan Dandan, asking her to deliver a gift package containing ginseng and a doll to Shuangshuang. He admitted his feelings for Shuangshuang, prompting Dandan to tease him about his seriousness. Just as Dandan agreed to help, Shuangshuang returned, and A'Liu, flustered, quickly left.

Shuangshuang heard about the gifts and A'Liu's feelings but stated she wasn't in the mood for romance, prioritizing helping with the business and finding clues about the crown. Later, Shan Dandan asked Shuangshuang about the Moon Phoenix Crown, a legendary item Shuangshuang seemed particularly knowledgeable about. Shuangshuang explained that Old Master Pei was the chief designer and craftsman for the crown intended for the Empress, but it was stolen on its way, leading to many deaths.

She viewed it as a disaster rather than a divine item, noting that it incorporated signature skills of famous craftsmen, many now lost. She found it odd that Pei Pei's skills were so extraordinary given his youth when his father died. She contrasted this with their own parents, who seemed to leave them nothing but a "lucky stone," which Dandan wondered might be a love token. Feeling tired, Shuangshuang decided to rest, and Dandan offered to share her room.

A'Liu, lost in thought about Shuangshuang while at the workshop, was startled when she suddenly appeared. Shuangshuang explained she needed inspiration for her designs, having used most of her ideas at Su Jade Pavilion, and asked if she could see Precious Pei Pavilion's historical drafts and designs. A'Liu eagerly agreed and took her to the collection room, proudly showing her shelves containing jade awards, historical crafts, and books compiling master carving techniques.

He pointed out a section holding records of the attainment of previous generations of Precious Pei Pavilion craftsmen. Shuangshuang, impressed, asked A'Liu to leave so she could examine the materials alone, claiming she needed time to study them. A'Liu reluctantly agreed, giving her a small bell to call him if needed. Shuangshuang's true intention was to search the archives for any clues about the crown.

Episode 14 Recap

Shan Shuangshuang examined numerous diagrams within the library, finding their techniques strikingly similar in precision to those used on the Phoenix Crown from years past. She found it puzzling that Precious Pei Pavilion, possessing such excellent aesthetics, had been suppressed by Su Jade Pavilion for so long. As she contemplated, Pei Pei and A'Liu arrived. Shan Shuangshuang greeted Pei Pei respectfully. A'Liu quickly interjected, taking full responsibility for bringing Shan Shuangshuang there, urging Pei Pei to blame him alone.

Shan Dandan also arrived and apologized upon seeing Pei Pei's apparent displeasure. Pei Pei, however, was stern, asking A'Liu why he had taken the key to the library and allowed an outsider into the area, implying he had spoiled them both. Shan Dandan was taken aback by his strong reaction to her sister being there. Later, Shan Dandan confided in Shan Shuangshuang, sharing that she and Pei Pei were now together privately.

Although Shan Shuangshuang was focused on investigating the Phoenix Crown matter, she expressed her happiness for her sister while also cautioning her to be careful and not get too deeply involved, asking if she truly knew Pei Pei. Shan Dandan reassured her sister to trust her judgment, believing Pei Pei, despite his carefree exterior, was responsible.

Meanwhile, Pei Pei, having overheard their conversation with A'Liu, admitted he might have been a little harsh earlier and decided he should apologize to Shan Dandan. Pei Pei received an anonymous letter inviting him to Full Bloom House. The letter claimed knowledge of the forgery accusation against him in the Jade Competition and offered to help him clear his name, stating a meeting was necessary if he wanted to overturn the situation.

Pei Pei went to Full Bloom House as directed and was met by Cui Liu. She expressed remorse for her past foolish actions, attributing them to jealousy of Shan Dandan always being by his side, and begged for his forgiveness before claiming she would leave for her hometown the next day. As a final gesture, she served him a drink.

Pei Pei accepted the drink, intending to leave afterward, but he collapsed, realizing too late that Cui Liu had poisoned him. Cui Liu then revealed a sinister smile. The next morning, Shan Dandan brought breakfast to Pei Pei's room only to find him missing. A'Liu informed her that Pei Pei had received a letter the previous night and rushed out, not having returned since.

Upon learning he had gone to Full Bloom House, Shan Dandan suspected something was wrong and hurried there. She found Cui Liu in a room loudly accusing an unconscious Pei Pei of ruining her reputation. Shan Dandan tried to wake Pei Pei. Just then, officers arrived and took the still-unconscious Pei Pei into custody. Shan Dandan was furious with Pei Pei for being so foolish and easily tricked by Cui Liu's scheme.

It was revealed that Su Jue had orchestrated the entire setup, approaching Cui Liu after her previous dismissal and exploiting her resentment towards Pei Pei and Shan Dandan. Su Jue offered her wealth, prosperity, and help if she cooperated, implying he had facilitated her earlier release from a difficult situation. He framed the proposition as an opportunity for her to get revenge and avoid ending up on the streets, and Cui Liu agreed to his plan.

Back at Pei Residence, A'Liu was distraught and wanted to break Pei Pei out of prison, but Shan Shuangshuang wisely stopped him, explaining that such an action would be a serious crime and only further jeopardize Pei Pei, even if he was innocent. She urged them to find a different solution. Shan Dandan comforted Old Madam, assuring her that she believed in Pei Pei's innocence.

She argued that if he had harbored ill intentions towards Cui Liu, he would not have waited, thus confirming he was framed. Shan Dandan vowed to find a way to rescue him. Old Madam was touched by Shan Dandan's belief and promised to use all of Precious Pei Pavilion's resources and funds to secure Pei Pei's release, while also cautioning Shan Dandan to be careful.

Shan Dandan visited Pei Pei in the city prison and was heartbroken to see him severely injured and weak. He told her the guards had beaten him to force a confession and signature. Shan Dandan cried, telling him she knew he had fallen into Cui Liu's trap and promising to find a way to prove his innocence. She reported Pei Pei's condition to Shan Shuangshuang and A'Liu, emphasizing the urgent need to find evidence.

Shan Dandan had already investigated the wine Cui Liu offered, but tests showed nothing wrong. Madam Yang, who worked at Full Bloom House, confirmed only Pei Pei and Cui Liu were in the room. Shan Dandan was left with many questions, confused why Cui Liu would act this way if Pei Pei had harmed her, who had instructed her, and who had reported the incident to the authorities.

Shan Shuangshuang, thinking about the critical Phoenix Crown investigation, stressed that Pei Pei could not remain imprisoned as it would sever the clues they needed. The City Lord was aware of Pei Pei's case and Cui Liu's accusations, finding the situation suspicious given Pei Pei's usual character. He believed Pei Pei must have been led into a trap.

Seeing Su Family's increasing aggression, the City Lord decided to use Pei Pei's case to confront Su Jue and set an example against those who make false accusations, especially considering Precious Pei Pavilion's previous contributions. Shan Shuangshuang conducted her own investigation, visiting Cui Liu's former room and speaking with Hong Yu, a maid.

She learned that Cui Liu had no close relationships and, despite admiring Pei Pei for a long time, was a traditional person at heart who would not engage in inappropriate interactions.

Based on this information and likely other evidence suggesting a setup orchestrated by Su Jue, Shan Shuangshuang instructed A'Liu to find the City Lord, report the case developments, and request a re-examination, also urging him to keep a close watch on Cui Liu to ensure she was not harmed before being summoned. At the Hall of Proclamation, the City Lord convened a re-examination of Pei Pei's case.

Pei Pei testified, recounting receiving the anonymous letter, going to Full Bloom House, meeting Cui Liu, her apology, drinking the spiked tea, and losing consciousness afterward. Cui Liu interrupted his testimony, vehemently accusing him of vile acts. Shan Dandan challenged Cui Liu to describe exactly what Pei Pei had done.

When Cui Liu hesitated, Shan Dandan requested permission to bring in Jade Cloud City's renowned midwife, stating she could verify if a woman was still a virgin and suggesting a physical examination to determine the extent of Cui Liu's supposed harm. Cui Liu panicked and quickly admitted that Pei Pei had only kissed and touched her.

Shan Dandan then directly accused Cui Liu of her and Su Jue's deceitful plan, warning her that Su Jue was already in trouble and she would not be safe relying on the Su Family. Worried about implicating Su Jue further, Cui Liu confessed that she had fabricated the accusations against Pei Pei, claiming she did it out of spite.

The City Lord was outraged by her lack of repentance, given his prior leniency in the fragrance case, and ordered the guards to take her away immediately. Pei Pei was subsequently acquitted and released. He expressed his deepest gratitude to Shan Dandan for saving him. He also apologized for his harsh words during their previous encounter in the library.

Shan Dandan admitted she was initially furious at his foolishness for falling into Cui Liu's trap again, but her anger quickly subsided as her only focus became getting him out because she realized she couldn't lose him. Pei Pei confessed that while in prison, he was most terrified not of punishment or death, but of the possibility of never seeing her again.

They shared a tender moment, promising to see each other every day going forward, and confessed their love for one another. Shortly after Pei Pei's return, Su Jue arrived at the residence, claiming to check on Pei Pei's injuries. Pei Pei saw through his facade, accusing him of meddling in the case and even arranging for Cui Liu. Su Jue denied responsibility, dismissing it as merely giving her a ride.

Pei Pei, angered by Su Jue's hypocrisy and past actions, told him to leave, stating that asking about Shan Shuangshuang was none of his business. Undeterred, Su Jue escalated his efforts against Precious Pei Pavilion, aiming to force Shan Shuangshuang's return to Su Jade Pavilion. He systematically purchased all available raw jade stones from suppliers in the surrounding area, effectively cutting off Precious Pei Pavilion's supply source.

He then drastically lowered the prices of finished goods at Su Jade Pavilion, a strategy he discussed with his mother as a 'fight to the death' to cripple Precious Pei Pavilion financially and leave them no footing, ensuring Shan Shuangshuang would have no choice but to return to them. Shopkeeper Hao reported Su Jade Pavilion's aggressive tactics to Old Madam and Pei Pei, including the price war and the raw stone monopoly.

They realized that Pei Pei's imprisonment had been a calculated diversion tactic. Shopkeeper Hao explained the dire situation: while they had sold some goods at reduced prices, they couldn't sustain a price war against Su Jade Pavilion's wealth, and without raw materials, their supply would soon run out. The lack of materials made further operation impossible, and many artisans were already leaving Precious Pei Pavilion to find work elsewhere.

Shan Dandan searched tirelessly for alternative raw stone suppliers but found none available, as Su Jade Pavilion had cornered the market. Facing the imminent collapse of the business, they were forced to consider their next steps.

Episode 15 Recap

Shan Dandan gave Pei Pei medicine to help him heal faster. Although the medicine was bitter, Pei Pei found sweetness in the moment, thinking it was sweeter than preserved fruit. Shan Dandan knew Pei Pei was worried about the lack of raw jade stones, but she reassured him that if she could help him through imprisonment, the raw stone issue would be easily resolved. Her confidence and Pei Pei's trust in her made her happy.

Upon returning to work, Pei Pei found some craftsmen preparing to leave Precious Pei Pavilion to work for the Su family. Shopkeeper Hao tried his best to persuade them to stay, reminding them how Old Madam had helped them in difficult times. However, the craftsmen felt they had no choice as they needed to support their families. Understanding their plight, Pei Pei did not make things difficult and allowed them to leave after settling their accounts.

Seeing the difficult situation, Pei Qinshi brought out her wedding dowry jewelry, intending to sell it to help the business. Shopkeeper Hao and others were hesitant to accept such a valuable sacrifice. Shan Dandan intervened, asking Pei Qinshi to keep the jewelry. She told Pei Qinshi not to sell them, saying she wanted them to be her betrothal gift someday, convincing her to hold onto them.

Shan Dandan proposed changing Precious Pei Pavilion's business from jade to gold and silver jewelry. She explained that without raw jade materials, they would starve, and this change was just a temporary strategy until they could return to jade. Shan Shuangshuang supported the idea, pointing out that since they lacked raw materials, focusing on survival by diversifying into other materials like stone, wood, fabric, shells, gold, and silver was a wise strategic retreat.

She added that new and diverse products were popular, and with Pei Pei's carving skills adapting to gold and silver, they could produce quality items. Pei Pei agreed, though somewhat reluctantly initially. Pei Pei instructed Shopkeeper Hao to sell 70% of the existing inventory at a discount to raise funds for purchasing materials for gold and silver jewelry.

Shopkeeper Hao was surprised by the drastic measure but accepted the order, understanding that it was necessary to feed the many mouths dependent on Precious Pei Pavilion. Hearing about Pei Pei selling inventory cheaply, Su Jue and Si Ruyu saw it as Pei Pei's decline, but Su Jue also considered buying the goods himself to resell them at the original price. Shan Dandan discussed the proposed business change with Pei Qinshi.

Pei Qinshi admitted it was hard to let go of their jade legacy but saw no other way. She recounted the hardships after Pei Pei's father passed away unexpectedly, leaving them in debt and forcing them to pawn everything, but she held on and rebuilt the business. Seeing her younger self's fearless spirit in Shan Dandan, Pei Qinshi expressed her trust in her ability to lead Precious Pei Pavilion.

Shan Dandan promised that the change was temporary and that they would never give up the hundred-year reputation of their jade works, promising to make Precious Pei Pavilion flourish again. Meanwhile, Shan Shuangshuang produced exquisite gold and silver jewelry designs, astonishing Pei Pei and Shan Dandan. She demonstrated techniques like filigree work (pulling wires and weaving them) and granulated beads (melting wires into tiny beads).

She asked Pei Pei if he was familiar with these or filigree inlay, and he admitted he had never heard of them, surprising her slightly, but Shan Dandan reminded her that Pei Pei primarily focused on jade carving. Shan Shuangshuang considered incorporating these techniques into future designs like phoenix crowns. Shan Dandan decided to seek collaboration with a famous tailor shop, Phoenix Blessing Pavilion, known for its exquisite women's clothing.

She learned that the owner, Boss Zhu, was cautious and difficult to negotiate with but had a soft spot for his youngest daughter, Xiao Die. Shan Dandan visited the shop and found Xiao Die playing. Xiao Die was captivated by a brooch Shan Dandan was wearing. Shan Dandan gave the brooch to her, and Boss Zhu saw how beautiful it looked on his daughter's dress.

Seizing the opportunity, Shan Dandan proposed a collaboration: Precious Pei Pavilion would provide accessories to complement Phoenix Blessing Pavilion's clothes, and they would share profits. Boss Zhu, seeing the appeal and encouraged by his daughter's delight with the accessory, agreed. Shan Dandan then took Pei Pei to Full Bloom House, a place frequented by men, to promote their new accessories. Pei Pei was confused, asking why they were seeking customers there when the guests were men.

Shan Dandan explained she was targeting the female performers, reasoning that men would buy gifts for them or their wives, and the performers themselves could influence trends. She convinced Lady Ling Yuan, a popular performer, to accept a unique gold hairpin as an apology (for some perceived slight related to the jade competition) and as a promotion.

Shan Dandan offered her the hairpin and money, promising a 20% discount for customers she referred and a 20% commission on sales generated through her. Ling Yuan readily agreed. Passing by Lady Hua Dian's room, they were pulled in. Seeing Ling Yuan with the hairpin, Hua Dian was initially upset but was appeased when Shan Dandan promised her an even more exquisite piece – the granulated bead earrings, describing them as unique in Jade Cloud City.

Hua Dian also demanded a commission, and Shan Dandan negotiated a similar referral discount and profit share arrangement. Later, discussing their strategy, Pei Pei questioned kneeling to the performers and selling at a loss while giving commissions. Shan Dandan explained it was a strategy; they would raise their prices by 20% to cover the discount and commission, making the influencers their top saleswomen. Soon, the performers were enthusiastically promoting Precious Pei Pavilion's accessories, attracting many customers.

Meanwhile, Su Jue examined some discarded carvings by Pei Pei found at Precious Pei Pavilion. He noticed the intricate details, realizing Pei Pei possessed strong micro-carving skills. This discovery intensified Su Jue's jealousy, making him question if he was inferior to Pei Pei. Days later, Shopkeeper Hao reported a flood of orders from all channels, totaling 2,600. He congratulated Shan Dandan, stating that if sales continued at this pace, their profits would almost match the previous jade business's peak.

Shan Dandan, however, was not satisfied with just breaking even. She declared her goal was to surpass not only the previous Precious Pei Pavilion but also the current Su Jade Pavilion. Pei Pei assured her he would fight this battle with her. Shan Dandan planned to collaborate with Painter Tan Qinghe to print designs for their products. She scheduled a meeting and promised to treat him to a feast afterward. Pei Pei decided to join the meeting, seemingly concerned about Shan Dandan being alone with Painter Tan.

Episode 16 Recap

Shan Dandan told Pei Pei she planned to invite Painter Tan for a feast, presumably to enlist his help with illustrations. Pei Pei appeared, asking why Painter Tan was there and asserting that as the Young Master of Precious Pei Pavilion, he should be included in business talks. He told Painter Tan to go eat, stating that he and Shan Dandan would solve their problem themselves.

Upset, Shan Dandan questioned how they would get the illustrations now that Pei Pei had sent Painter Tan away. Pei Pei confidently declared he could do the drawing himself. Shan Dandan challenged him to complete four thousand copies. Initially boastful, Pei Pei was taken aback by the sheer number, muttering about the large quantity. Pei Pei began working on the illustrations, drawing each one by hand.

Shan Dandan observed him secretly, thinking he was a fool for doing it manually but acknowledging his talent and appearance. She later entered his room, feigning concern about his exhaustion. Pei Pei informed her he was nearly finished and claimed his illustrations were even better than the originals, eliminating the need for anyone else.

Referencing an earlier time when she had seemingly gotten the better of him, Pei Pei suggested it was now his turn to take advantage, leading to an intimate moment between them. Meanwhile, Su Jue and his uncle observed that news of Precious Pei Pavilion switching to gold and silver jewelry was widespread. Su Jue's uncle expressed surprise that they had stopped selling jade and wondered about their plans. They decided to investigate.

At Precious Pei Pavilion, Deputy Shopkeeper Shan Dandan hosted a tea party for numerous noble madams. She announced that Precious Pei Pavilion would now specialize in gold and silver jewelry, declaring it the "realm of women" in contrast to Su Jade Pavilion, which was the domain of men. She listed the wide variety of jewelry items they would offer, to the attendees' appreciation. Su Jue and his uncle discussed Precious Pei Pavilion's move.

Su Jue's uncle recalled Shan Dandan's "wicked ideas" that caused them trouble before. He noted the tea party with noble madams was a strategic move. Su Jue dismissed it as relying on women for small, embarrassing profits and believed they couldn't compete with Su Jade Pavilion, where men handled the major jade investments. His uncle, however, advised caution and ordered more people to monitor Precious Pei Pavilion's activities closely, a directive Su Jue agreed to follow.

At the tea party, Shan Dandan surprised the ladies by announcing an auction for a selection of their new jewelry collection. She invited them to become the first owners through competitive bidding. The auction proceeded, with the noble madams actively bidding against each other for various pieces. After the ladies departed, Shan Dandan was seen giving money to several women, one of whom Pei Pei recognized and addressed as "Auntie."

The women confirmed this was the deputy shopkeeper's idea, acknowledging it was a tactic used in business. As the women left, Pei Pei commented on Shan Dandan's various strategies. Unexpectedly, some of the noble madams returned. Shan Dandan appeared nervous and started to explain, but one madam clarified that they had used their extra money to support her, deeming it the right thing to do for a friend in trouble.

They praised Shan Dandan's capability and wished Precious Pei Pavilion success, not taking issue with her methods. Pei Pei expressed gratitude for their support. Later, Pei Pei oversaw the installation of a new signboard for the business. The old name, Precious Pei Pavilion, was changed to Precious Pei Jewelry Pavilion, signifying its new focus. Shan Dandan observed the change, understanding that it was Pei Pei's way of showing his support for her endeavors.

Shan Shuangshuang had a conversation with Shan Dandan, pouring her hot water and urging her to rest given how hard she had been working. Shan Dandan acknowledged Shan Shuangshuang's own hard work for her sake. Shan Shuangshuang then asked about her engagement to Young Master Pei, and Shan Dandan replied she was taking things one step at a time.

Pressing the matter, Shan Shuangshuang posed a hypothetical question: if the Pei family were their enemy, would Shan Dandan still choose Pei Pei without hesitation? Shan Dandan found the scenario illogical, questioning how the Pei family could possibly be their enemy and dismissing the possibility. Pei Pei sought out Shan Dandan and presented her with a metal sachet he had made himself.

He explained it was a gift, noting she didn't prefer intricate accessories, and he wanted to give her a proper gift while showcasing his skill. He added that once Precious Pei Pavilion was running smoothly, he would formally propose and give her an even better gift. Shan Dandan was deeply touched, revealing that besides her sister, no one had ever created a gift specifically for her.

Pei Pei gently asked about her parents, and Shan Dandan shared that she didn't know them, having only known her sister since childhood. She recounted how her sister struggled to raise her and they finally found a sense of home in Jade Cloud City when she was twelve. However, whenever she asked about their parents, her sister would say they died of illness and refuse to discuss it, which Shan Dandan knew was a source of pain for her sister.

Shan Dandan then showed Pei Pei a small, simple stone she had worn since childhood. She explained it was left by her parents and served as her lucky charm, always providing strength during difficulties. She gave the stone to Pei Pei, hoping it would bring him luck and jokingly calling it her dowry. Pei Pei affectionately called her silly and promised to provide both betrothal gifts and dowry.

Upon arriving at Precious Pei Pavilion, Shan Dandan was met by Shopkeeper Hao and the Old Madam. Shopkeeper Hao proudly presented the ledger, announcing that the current orders and income had surpassed Precious Pei Pavilion's best performance when it sold jade. He attributed the success to everyone's hard work but acknowledged Lady Dan Dan's business talent.

Shopkeeper Hao stated his intention to step down as Shopkeeper due to his age and inability to keep up with trends, proposing to hand the position over to Shan Dandan, whom he deemed most suitable. Shan Dandan initially hesitated, citing his role as a founding member, but Shopkeeper Hao insisted that the business's revival was thanks to her management and expressed shame for having doubted her earlier.

The Old Madam supported Shopkeeper Hao's decision, encouraging Shan Dandan to accept and highlighting her capability. Shopkeeper Hao assured them he wasn't leaving and would continue to help with minor tasks. Shan Dandan finally accepted the position, and everyone congratulated her as the new Chief Shopkeeper of Precious Pei Pavilion. In Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue and his uncle discussed Precious Pei Pavilion's rising success, noting their jewelry profits were nearly catching up to theirs.

Su Jue's uncle wanted to know how they achieved this, mentioning the exquisite jewelry was reportedly made by Lady Shuangshuang and the clever sales ideas came from her sister. He expressed regret over letting Miss Shuangshuang leave. Su Jue dismissed the regret, insisting that as long as he was alive, Precious Pei Pavilion must remain inferior to Su Jade Pavilion. Shan Shuangshuang spoke to Shan Dandan, now Chief Shopkeeper Shan, admiring Pei Pei's technique.

She compared his skill to Su Jue's, finding Su Jue's average, especially recalling how Pei Pei quickly mastered the left-handed knife technique while Su Jue took decades. Shan Shuangshuang wondered why Su Jade Pavilion, so successful under Su Zhiyan, now resorted to shady practices. Pei Pei, present during this conversation, lamented the state of the jade market in Jade Cloud City, where opportunists sold inferior products instead of showcasing true carving skills and gentlemanly conduct for people seeking good jade.

Suddenly, A-Liu arrived excitedly, reporting that a wealthy patron had come to Jade Cloud City, spending tens of thousands of taels at once. Shan Dandan and Shan Shuangshuang were astonished and decided to see who this generous person was. In the street, Shan Dandan and Shan Shuangshuang spotted a grand carriage and Shan Dandan confidently stopped it. The occupant was identified as Si Ruyu from Mo City. A servant questioned who dared impede them.

Shan Dandan introduced herself as the Chief Shopkeeper of Precious Pei Pavilion and invited Si Ruyu to see their jewelry, boasting of its quality and recent auction success. Si Ruyu's servant replied that their young master had seen plenty of jewelry and preferred jade, considering jewelry inferior. Si Ruyu himself stated he found gold and silver jewelry nothing special and preferred spending time with ladies.

Understanding his disinterest, Shan Dandan cleverly turned to the ladies accompanying him, suggesting they might like to look. She complimented one lady and proposed a shell hairpin, mentioning unique materials like wood, stone, and fabric, assuring the ladies that wearing their accessories would enhance their beauty and make them the talk of the town. The ladies were intrigued and asked Si Ruyu to take them to Precious Pei Pavilion, which he agreed to, amused by Shan Dandan's name.

Upon arriving at Precious Pei Pavilion, Si Ruyu recognized Pei Pei and addressed him directly. Si Ruyu mentioned having heard of Pei Pei's past reputation for idleness and irresponsibility, comparing it to his own former self, but acknowledged that Pei Pei had clearly changed. Shan Dandan directed A-Liu to show the ladies the accessories while she assisted. The ladies were delighted by the jewelry. They admired various pieces and asked Si Ruyu to buy them.

Shan Dandan calculated the total, announcing it was three thousand taels, though offering a discount. Si Ruyu was surprised by the price for what he called "trinkets." Shan Dandan defended the value, emphasizing their uniqueness and exquisite craftsmanship. She also hinted at potential long-term business partnerships. The ladies continued to insist they wanted the jewelry. Si Ruyu agreed to buy all they selected and told them to pick more, though Shan Dandan noted their stock was limited.

Hesitating at the price, Si Ruyu proposed a contest: if he won, he would receive the jewelry for free; if Shan Dandan won, he would buy all the accessories in her shop, potentially leading to a long-term supply partnership if they sold well. Shan Dandan readily accepted the challenge. Preparations for their contest began.

Episode 17 Recap

Shan Dandan decided to test her martial arts skills against Si Ruyu. During the warm-up, it was clear Si Ruyu was more skilled than Shan Dandan, much to the frustration of Shan Shuangshuang watching. When the main competition involving shooting targets began, Shan Shuangshuang stepped in to replace her sister. After a round of shots, Si Ruyu was outmatched by Shan Shuangshuang and admitted defeat, agreeing to purchase all the jewelry currently in Precious Pei Pavilion.

Meanwhile, Su Jue encountered an old acquaintance, Si Ruchu, the eldest son of Mine Owner Si. The two shared a history and Si Ruchu was well-informed about the jade business in Jade Cloud City. He knew that Su Jue's actions had forced Precious Pei Pavilion to abandon the jade trade and switch to selling jewelry.

Although the Si family had traditionally focused solely on Mount Mo Jade, Si Ruchu revealed his ambition to acquire all types of jade mines across the nation. This ambition sparked a sense of crisis for Su Jue, but Si Ruchu saw it as seizing opportunity, comparing his own ruthlessness in removing obstacles to Su Jue's methods against the Pei family. They acknowledged their strikingly similar approaches.

A'Liu also learned that the Eldest Young Master of the Si family had arrived in Jade Cloud City and quickly reported it. Pei Pei believed that gaining the Si family's support would significantly benefit their business, considering them the real "God of Wealth." Hoping to secure this assistance, Pei Pei immediately took Shan Dandan and Shan Shuangshuang to a restaurant to meet Si Ruchu.

Si Ruyu also heard the news about the Si family's eldest son being in the city but was unaware his brother had arrived. He decided to follow Pei Pei and the others to the restaurant out of curiosity. Pei Pei was eager to meet the esteemed Si Eldest Young Master, but upon reaching the restaurant, he discovered Su Jue was also present. Feeling they couldn't just leave, they stayed. Just then, Si Ruyu arrived.

Shan Dandan initially found his presence unnecessary and wanted him to leave, but they were stunned to learn he was actually the Si family's Second Young Master. They realized the seemingly frivolous young man they had looked down upon was, in fact, a member of the powerful Si family. Su Jue asserted that since Precious Pei Pavilion was no longer in the jade business, they shouldn't bother the Si family and offered to host both Si brothers himself.

However, to try and salvage a potential business relationship, Shan Dandan impulsively invited Si Ruyu to stay at their residence, which he accepted. Si Ruyu understood that the Pei family's hospitality was motivated by their desire to resume the jade business. He challenged Pei Pei to showcase their family's legendary jade carving skills. Pei Pei demonstrated his craftsmanship, which Si Ruyu greatly admired, acknowledging the pity of such skill being in their current state.

Si Ruyu indicated that helping them was possible but required careful consideration, given the Si family's strict trade rules. Si Ruyu moved into the Pei residence, accompanied by several women, whom A'Liu initially dismissed as typical companions for a playboy. However, after hearing the women's stories, A'Liu learned they were all individuals Si Ruyu had rescued from difficult circumstances, revealing a kinder side to his character beneath the surface.

Shan Dandan remained worried about whether Si Ruyu would agree to help them, but she held strong confidence in Pei Pei, believing him to be the most skilled jade carver in Jade Cloud City. Si Ruyu later clarified his family's established rule: they only supply jade to genuine jade enthusiasts, not those primarily dealing in gold and silver.

Therefore, for the Pei family to receive his family's supply, they needed to be prepared to fully commit to the jade business and abandon gold and silver jewelry. Shan Dandan acknowledged that Pei Pei's true passion lay in jade, agreeing that they should transition back to focusing on the jade trade. That night, Shan Shuangshuang noticed one of Si Ruyu's companions (Swallow) sneaking into the kitchen.

She discreetly followed and observed the woman poisoning tea before instructing a servant to deliver it to Si Ruyu. Shan Shuangshuang quickly entered Si Ruyu's room and knocked the cup out of his hand just as he was about to drink, saving him. She warned him to be cautious of those close to him. This close call triggered Si Ruyu's memory of his wife, Wan Wan, dying during childbirth years ago, and their child also not surviving.

His elder brother, Si Ruchu, had been the only family member home at the time and had arranged the burials before Si Ruyu returned. Overcome with grief, Si Ruyu had later questioned a servant about the details and suspected his wife might have been poisoned, noting the presence of black blood.

The current poisoning attempt made him realize his earlier suspicion might be true and fear that his brother, motivated by greed for the family's legacy, could be responsible for such a heinous act. A flashback revealed that Si Ruyu's father, Si Yuan Nian, had highly praised Si Ruyu's wife and designated their unborn child as the future Si family heir.

Si Yuan Nian was deeply dissatisfied with Si Ruchu's secret ventures into businesses other than jade, which went against the family's tradition of solely focusing on jade as their lifelong livelihood and honoring their ancestors. Although Si Ruyu had tried to cover for Si Ruchu, Si Yuan Nian had long been aware of his elder son's activities but had mostly turned a blind eye. However, their conversation was overheard by Si Ruchu.

Driven by the desire to eliminate Si Ruyu and secure the inheritance, Si Ruchu orchestrated the poisoning of Si Ruyu's wife and child while Si Ruyu was away. The next morning, Shan Dandan and Pei Pei attempted to discuss potential cooperation with Si Ruyu. However, Si Ruyu seemed uninterested, cutting short their conversation and suggesting they all go shopping around Jade Cloud City instead, leaving Shan Dandan and Pei Pei bewildered about his intentions.

Once on the street, Si Ruyu unexpectedly dismissed both Shan Dandan and Pei Pei, as well as his own companions (Oriole and Swallow), telling them to enjoy time off. Confused, the others couldn't understand his actions. It was revealed that Si Ruyu suspected his two companions were spies.

After sending them away, he secretly followed them and confirmed his suspicion when he overheard them planning to meet Si Ruchu to report, solidifying his belief that his brother was actively plotting against him.

Episode 18 Recap

Si Ru Chu was furious at Oriole for failing in her mission to assassinate Si Ru Yu. He called her useless and questioned why he should keep her after repeated failures. Oriole claimed she had acted discreetly and that Si Ru Yu wouldn't discover their identities, insisting they still had a chance. She showed him a tattoo of his name on her shoulder, stating it proved her determination.

Si Ru Chu, expressing his deep disappointment, gave her one last chance, ordering that Si Ru Yu must die before leaving Jade Cloud City. As he spoke, he pushed her down, unleashing his frustration, and she complied submissively. Outside the window, Shan Shuangshuang observed their interaction. Meanwhile, Su Jue from Su Jade Pavilion sought Si Ru Yu.

He inquired at the Si residence but was told Si Ru Yu was not there, having left with Young Master Pei early that morning. Su Jue's man confirmed Si Ru Yu's absence. Su Jue wondered why Si Ru Yu was with Pei Pei and what he was searching for. Si Ru Yu was found drinking heavily, filled with sorrow. Shan Dandan and Pei Pei approached him, concerned by his state.

Si Ru Yu confessed the person behind the attempt on his life was his own brother, Si Ru Chu. He explained that despite their close ages, their father treated them equally, but Si Ru Chu felt his father favored him. Si Ru Yu hadn't taken Si Ru Chu's resentment seriously until he lost his wife and child.

He admitted he wasn't certain how they died but mentioned his late wife had been a maid, and Si Ru Chu was their father's biological son. Their father had long hesitated and begged him to drop the matter. To protect himself and avoid conflict, Si Ru Yu had adopted the persona of a playboy, yet Si Ru Chu still pushed him. The recent assassination attempt convinced Si Ru Yu that Si Ru Chu was genuinely trying to kill him.

Shan Dandan remarked on Si Ru Chu's apparent heartlessness. Pei Pei vowed that if Si Ru Chu was truly responsible, especially for the deaths of Si Ru Yu's wife and child, they would definitely help him fight and wouldn't let him face it alone. Shan Dandan discussed strategy with Shan Shuangshuang. Shan Dandan proposed inviting Old Master Si (Si Yuanian) to intervene.

Shan Shuangshuang worried this might backfire or be disrupted by Si Ru Chu, noting rumors that Si Ru Chu was favored and Si Yuanian had previously discouraged Si Ru Yu from pursuing the matter of his wife's death. Shan Dandan believed Si Ru Yu and reasoned that while Si Yuanian might not have wanted to harm his own son over an "outsider" previously, threatening his son's life was different.

She felt something deeper was behind Si Ru Chu's actions, as a potential heir wouldn't normally target a harmless playboy. Shan Dandan decided to try inviting Si Yuanian and planned to spread rumors that assassins were targeting both Si Family sons in Jade Cloud City to provoke Si Ru Chu into revealing himself. Soon, news circulated in the city about assassins targeting the two wealthy Si Family sons who were in Jade Cloud City.

People discussed the rumors, wondering who held such a deep grudge. A letter addressed to Si Yuanian arrived from Jade Cloud City. It mentioned a rare sky-blue ice-quality jade and invited him to come see it, knowing his love for jade. The letter was signed by the master of Precious Pei Pavilion. Su Jue met with Si Ru Chu.

Si Ru Chu, aware of the rumors and Su Jue's attempts to connect with Si Ru Yu, accused Su Jue of being a "fence-sitter." He correctly inferred that Su Jue feared their alliance might fail and was seeking security by befriending both brothers. Su Jue denied this, claiming he thought bringing Si Ru Yu closer would be convenient, but Si Ru Chu saw his intention to benefit regardless of the outcome.

Si Ru Chu stated his intense dislike for Si Ru Yu and those who betray him. Su Jue quickly pledged his loyalty, affirming he would definitely follow Si Ru Chu. Si Ru Chu then asked Su Jue to help him kill Si Ru Yu as a way to settle past issues. Si Ru Chu argued that if his father met Pei Pei, their alliance could end, and his father might supply jade to the Pei family instead.

He presented killing Si Ru Yu as the only way to secure their partnership. Si Ru Chu suggested the upcoming Su family banquet, attended by many people, would be the ideal opportunity. He planned to mix their people into the crowd, kill Si Ru Yu, stage an injury to himself, and blame it on the rumored assassins. Su Jue agreed to participate in the plan.

Si Ru Yu shared with Pei Pei that his father, Si Yuanian, had given him a task because Si Yuanian had also become aware of Si Ru Chu's ambition. Si Yuanian, who valued jade and its proper use over money, knew that Si Ru Chu had taken over the family business and sold good jade at inflated prices to those who didn't appreciate it, while also secretly involving other mine owners.

Si Yuanian had given Si Ru Yu the mission to uncover the truth and protect the family's reputation. Si Ru Yu expressed gratitude that the Pei family still adhered to the principles of the jade industry. He assured Pei Pei that despite their own difficulties, they would not abandon their friends. At the Su family banquet, Pei Pei and Shan Dandan arrived early.

Si Ru Chu was visibly disappointed that Si Ru Yu was not present, having been told Si Ru Yu was attending to personal matters. Pei Pei immediately challenged Si Ru Chu, asking if he was worried they would threaten his "lifeline" and accusing him of keeping Si Ru Yu away. Si Ru Chu dismissed this as ridiculous.

Pei Pei then directly accused Si Ru Chu of specific crimes: falsifying ledgers, taking over raw stone mines behind Si Yuanian's back, disregarding the tradition of Mount Mo jade, killing his sister-in-law, and planting spies to poison his own brother. Si Ru Chu denied the accusations, claiming Si Ru Yu's wife died from hemorrhage and he knew nothing of poisoning. Pei Pei questioned his lack of remorse for such actions, but Si Ru Chu maintained he lived with integrity.

Just then, Shan Shuangshuang entered with Si Ru Yu and witnesses, including Oriole. Shan Shuangshuang pointed out Oriole's tattoo of Si Ru Chu's name and accused him of forcing her to kill Si Ru Yu. Si Ru Chu initially dismissed the tattoo as a sign of infatuation and denied commanding her. However, when Oriole confessed she had done everything as instructed, Si Ru Chu became agitated.

He then astonishingly admitted to falsifying ledgers, taking over mines, planting spies, and attempting to poison Si Ru Yu (who survived). He also alluded to responsibility for his sister-in-law's death, noting her lack of luck compared to Si Ru Yu. Dropping his pretense, he declared he had planned another act but it was unnecessary now that they knew. He then ordered that everyone present be killed.

As assassins moved in, Si Ru Chu watched, believing Si Ru Yu had been successfully targeted. Si Ru Chu openly confessed his crimes, stating that with everyone dead, no one would know. At that moment, Si Yuanian appeared. It was revealed the entire confrontation was a carefully planned trap by Shan Dandan. The assassin who attacked Si Ru Yu was A'Liu in disguise, and the knife was spring-loaded, ensuring Si Ru Yu was unharmed.

Si Yuanian had arrived, alerted by Shan Dandan's letter and the staged events. Seeing his father, Si Ru Chu immediately knelt, pleading for forgiveness and claiming it was not as it seemed. Su Jue also knelt, apologizing to Si Yuanian but claiming he was unaware of Si Ru Chu's true intentions. Si Yuanian, though likely aware of Su Jue's complicity, focused on Si Ru Chu.

He condemned Si Ru Chu as a beast driven by greed who had broken familial bonds. Si Yuanian stripped Si Ru Chu of all his management rights and confined him to Mo City for the rest of his life. Si Yuanian expressed his gratitude to Pei Pei and Shan Dandan, stating their actions prevented Si Ru Chu from committing a terrible mistake.

Pei Pei and Shan Dandan replied it was their pleasure to help Si Ru Yu, whom they considered a brother. Si Yuanian recounted sending Si Ru Yu to investigate Si Ru Chu's annexing of mines and ruin of the jade's reputation, but he never anticipated such ruthless behavior.

Recognizing Pei Pei's skill and the Pei family's integrity, Si Yuanian decided to give them his largest agency, Qin Shi Liu's Jade Stone Store, located in Jade Cloud City, as the previous agent had embezzled funds. He promised to handle the necessary documents with the City Lord. Pei Pei and Shan Dandan were ecstatic, calling it a dream to have their own raw stone shop and the ability to choose materials. After the Si family departed, they celebrated their success.

Pei Qin Shi, already informed by A'Liu, gave Shan Dandan her phoenix wedding dress, stating it was time for a new owner and asking Shan Dandan if she would be her Young Madam Pei. Shan Dandan happily accepted. At Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue learned from his spy that Si Yuanian would supply jade to the Pei family and establish a raw stone shop for them. He was furious at Si Ru Chu's failure, calling him useless.

He resented that the Pei family had gained both jade access and a shop, giving them first choice of materials. He resolved to find a countermeasure. His frustration seemed linked to Shan Shuangshuang, as a brief flashback/internal monologue showed her telling him she was with Pei Pei and accepting his earlier statement that her happiness was worth it, contrasted with Shan Dandan accepting Pei Pei's proposal.

Shan Shuangshuang sat alone, visibly worried about Shan Dandan marrying into the Pei family before they could confirm if they were their enemy. Pei Qin Shi found her, noted she looked thin, and gave her nourishing herbs prepared for Pei Pei, emphasizing they were all family. After Pei Qin Shi left, A'Liu joined Shan Shuangshuang. Shan Shuangshuang invited A'Liu inside to talk privately and asked about Pei Pei's past.

A'Liu mentioned that Old Master Pei was a respected figure who loved Young Master Pei but suddenly became unpredictable and forbade him from carving jade, especially techniques related to the Moon Phoenix Crown. A'Liu explained the crown was designed by Old Master Pei and others outside the city but was stolen on its way to the palace.

After the loss, Old Master Pei became very cautious, stopped using the crown's techniques, and forbade Pei Pei from displaying any skills he had learned related to it. Shan Shuangshuang speculated that Old Master Pei hid the techniques he knew after the theft and that the thieves were likely after the techniques rather than just the gems, implying an insider might have been involved. A'Liu cautioned against careless talk about a capital offense and claimed ignorance as a servant. Shan Shuangshuang agreed to keep their conversation private. Unbeknownst to them, Pei Pei overheard their discussion.

Episode 19 Recap

Practicing a gesture for a wedding ceremony, Pei Pei was joined by Shan Dandan. He offered her tea and they practiced together. Pei Pei noted that Shan Shuangshuang seemed quite calculating. Shan Dandan became defensive, telling him not to criticize her sister. Reflecting on their recent success and regaining control, Shan Dandan reminded Pei Pei of his principle: to not offend others unless offended, but to retaliate if provoked.

She suggested they should show no mercy to troublemakers like Su Jue and use their current advantage and good materials to teach them a lesson, a sentiment Pei Pei agreed with. As Precious Pei Pavilion thrived, Shan Dandan brought late-night supper for everyone working hard. She and Pei Pei acknowledged each other's efforts. They discussed expanding their business beyond the main store to leverage their good locations.

Pei Pei showed Shan Dandan a complex chain carving, a new technique requiring high-quality jade and precise skills. He explained it wasn't meant to be worn but displayed at home, leading Shan Dandan to comment she didn't understand the lives of rich people. Later, staff delivered finished pieces, including one destined for the City Lord's Mansion. Meanwhile, Su Jue demanded to know why business at Su Jade Pavilion was stagnant.

Shopkeeper Wang explained they had lost major clients and casual customers were only browsing. Frustrated, Su Jue went out and overheard people at Full Bloom House praising Precious Pei Pavilion's craftsmanship, particularly Pei Pei's unique skill. They lauded the quality and suggested they shouldn't settle for inferior goods, clearly referencing Su Jade Pavilion.

Su Jue confronted them, but they reiterated their preference for Pei Pei's work and prices, saying his "century-old brand" wouldn't have lasted if Pei Pei had been around a hundred years ago. They refused to back down, causing Su Jue to become aggressive before they departed, mocking him for being unable to handle criticism. Returning to Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue found customers demanding refunds for purchased goods and demanding payment for raw materials bought earlier with only partial payment.

Shopkeeper Wang tried to manage the situation, but customers insisted on refunds, claiming Precious Pei Pavilion's items were superior. Su Jue instructed Wang to process the refunds and settle the debts. Wang explained the dire situation: unsellable goods, overstocked materials, and no funds. He told Su Jue they had only two options: create new designs surpassing Pei Pei or negotiate with him. Su Jue struggled to develop new designs. Thinking of Shan Shuangshuang, he felt useless.

He went to the Pei Residence to see her, confessing he wasn't doing well, that his business was failing, and the person he loved was in the enemy's hands. When Shan Shuangshuang tried to leave, he stopped her, admitting he had been wrong, chasing fame and fortune, and achieving nothing. He realized he needed her more than anything else and begged her to return. She reiterated her earlier stance, telling him to behave.

He claimed he couldn't endure needing her and mistakenly thought his wealth would win her heart. She responded that she didn't care about his wealth then, and asked what she could possibly gain from him now. When A Liu tried to intervene, Shan Shuangshuang stopped him, surprising both men by declaring Su Jue was her fiancé. Su Jue thought she was joking to reject him, but she insisted she was serious.

He then questioned why she was at the Pei Residence, stating she had won completely, though he never intended to compete with her. Later, Shan Shuangshuang discussed the encounter with Shan Dandan, clarifying that she had only said what came to mind to reject Su Jue. Shan Dandan observed that Su Jue, being arrogant and pretentious, must be truly desperate to personally seek peace, suggesting Su Jade Pavilion was on the brink of collapse.

Back at Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue, feeling defeated, wanted to remove the business plaque. Shopkeeper Wang expressed disappointment in Su Jue's discouragement. He reminded Su Jue of his past efforts, including resorting to questionable deeds to establish him after his parents' death. Su Jue felt useless, admitting he wasn't as good as Pei Pei and couldn't continue the business. Wang Jiu reiterated the need for Su Jue to surpass Pei Pei or negotiate.

He promised that if Su Jue could regain composure, he would find a way to protect the family business. Shan Dandan felt some pity for Su Jue, noting his apparent genuine affection for her sister. Pei Pei, however, reminded her of Su Jue's past bad deeds, suggesting that some pitiable people are also detestable. Shan Dandan conceded this point but maintained his feelings for her sister seemed real.

Matron Li was carrying lotus root soup intended for Pei Pei and Shan Dandan when she encountered Old Madam Pei. Old Madam Pei deemed the soup unsuitable for their health, ordered it taken to her own room, and instructed Matron Li to prepare deer antler soup for them instead. Later, Old Madam Pei was found dead. Pei Pei and Shan Dandan were shocked, as she had seemed well earlier that day.

Matron Li knelt and confessed, claiming Old Madam Pei had suffered from a terminal illness for a long time but had hidden it to protect them. She asserted that Old Madam Pei's main concern was Pei Pei's future and the business, which led her to become strict and arrange for Shan Dandan to assist him. That night, Matron Li, also known as Gui Xiang, secretly met with Wang Jiu.

She admitted to accidentally poisoning Old Madam Pei, having intended the soup for Pei Pei. Terrified, she urged Wang Jiu to flee with her immediately, return to their hometown, and live in peace away from these troubles. Wang Jiu tried to calm her, saying Old Madam Pei's death was convenient and they could still find a way to eliminate Pei Pei and Shan Dandan. Gui Xiang refused, fearing that the shrewd Shan Dandan would suspect her.

She insisted they leave now. Wang Jiu argued that leaving so soon after the death would arouse suspicion and urged her to stay longer to watch the situation, promising they would have plenty of time later. Gui Xiang reminded him of his decade-old promise to take her away after she went undercover in the Pei family. Wang Jiu reaffirmed his promise, acknowledging her suffering, and asked for a little more time, claiming the difficult days were almost over.

At the memorial for Old Madam Pei, Shan Shuangshuang paid her respects. Recalling Old Madam Pei's kindness and trust, and finding Matron Li's behavior suspicious, Shan Shuangshuang resolved to investigate. Concealing her face, she confronted Wang Jiu, demanding to know how he had conspired with Matron Li to kill Old Madam Pei.

Episode 20 Recap

As Pei Pei and Shan Dandan oversaw the funeral arrangements for Old Madam Pei, Matron Li approached with a request. She stated she had served the Old Madam for over ten years and could not bear the grief of her passing. She wished to resign and return to her hometown to live a prayerful, vegetarian life for the Old Madam's peaceful afterlife, asking to be freed from suffering. Pei Pei granted her request. Shan Dandan also expressed thanks.

Shan Shuangshuang, however, felt something was amiss and offered to help Matron Li pack, which Matron Li accepted. While packing, Shan Shuangshuang spoke with Matron Li, who seemed deeply saddened by the Old Madam's sudden death, saying she felt like she had lost her anchor. Matron Li claimed the Old Madam died of tuberculosis, a chronic illness. Unbeknownst to Matron Li, Shan Shuangshuang discovered a hidden packet of Aconitum (wolfsbane) in her belongings and recognized its deadly properties.

Later, Shan Shuangshuang found Matron Li collapsed and informed Pei Pei and Shan Dandan. Shan Dandan instructed their servant, A'Liu, to fetch a physician and check Matron Li's bundle for emergency medicine. Shan Shuangshuang produced the Aconitum she found earlier, identifying it as a potent poison. She connected it to the bowl of soup by Old Madam's bedside on the day she died, which Matron Li had prepared. Shan Shuangshuang directly accused Matron Li of poisoning the Old Madam.

Shan Dandan initially refused to believe it, citing Matron Li's long service and the doctor's diagnosis. When the physician arrived, however, he confessed under duress. He pleaded for his life, claiming "she" (Matron Li) had forced him and threatened to kill him if he didn't comply. He admitted that Old Madam had no terminal illness and that the Aconite, colorless and tasteless, was dissolved in the soup, causing her death.

Shan Dandan confronted Matron Li, demanding to know why she would harm the Old Madam, who had treated her so well. Matron Li erupted in anger, revealing her deep resentment. She felt she had been treated merely as a lackey despite a decade of dedicated service and admitted she had wanted the Old Madam dead for a long time. As A'Liu was sent to call the authorities, Matron Li made a shocking confession.

She revealed that the bowl of lotus root soup was originally intended for Pei Pei and Shan Dandan, but the Old Madam had taken it herself, saying the herbs weren't suitable for them. Realizing they were the intended targets, Shan Dandan demanded to know who had instructed her. Matron Li claimed she didn't need instructions; she was driven by envy and hate for their privileged lives and wanted them to suffer.

Just as the authorities were arriving, Matron Li called out a name, "Wang Jiu," expressing she couldn't wait any longer and wished to marry him in their next life, before taking her own life. Shopkeeper Wang, hearing the news of Matron Li's death (whom he privately referred to as Gui Xiang), was deeply saddened. He was seen burning paper offerings for her late at night.

He muttered that Matron Li, his Gui Xiang, had been the source of information and designs from Precious Pei Pavilion for years. He lamented that his plan to kill Pei Pei and Shan Dandan had been thwarted by the Old Madam dying first and vowed a "dead fish or broken net" fight against the Pei family. Pei Pei was overcome with grief, remembering cherished, albeit sometimes strict, moments with his mother from childhood.

He wept, saying he would never have a mother again. Shan Dandan tried to comfort him, telling him his mother was the best in the world and that he was her proud son. That night, Su Jue found Shopkeeper Wang burning paper offerings.

Realizing Wang Jiu was grieving for Matron Li, whom Su Jue now suspected was involved in Old Madam Pei's death, Su Jue was appalled that Wang Jiu would resort to murder for the sake of their business rivalry. Wang Jiu, enraged, slapped Su Jue and declared their conflict with the Pei family was now irreconcilable. Wang Jiu then led Su Jue to a hidden secret room within the residence, which Su Jue had never known existed.

Inside was a prisoner, thin and muttering incoherently, who was identified by a caption as "Pei Chu Feng of Precious Pei Pavilion." Wang Jiu revealed the prisoner was Pei Pei's biological father, Pei Chufeng, leaving Su Jue stunned and confused. Wang Jiu began to reveal a long-kept secret. He explained that for years, Su Jade Pavilion had been overshadowed by Precious Pei Pavilion in both jade quality and craftsmanship.

Their father had endured shame until the emperor commissioned the Moon Phoenix Crown. The City Lord appointed Pei Chufeng as the chief designer, forcing the Su family to plot to steal it. Wang Jiu showed Su Jue a flashback of the theft attempt. Guard Zhao of Precious Pei Pavilion was escorting the crown, holding baby Shan Dandan. Vigilante Shan Jing Tian intercepted them.

Wang Jiu appeared and mockingly revealed he had hired Shan Jing Tian, lying that the amber on the crown would cure his wife's chronic illness. He revealed that the true value lay in the crown's masterful craftsmanship, not the amber, and stated Shan Jing Tian's usefulness was over. Realizing he had been tricked into stealing the crown, Shan Jing Tian vowed to return it to its rightful owner, ready to give his life.

As they fought, poisonous smoke was released, weakening them. Guard Zhao, entrusting baby Dandan to Shan Jing Tian for safekeeping, stayed to fight alone to retrieve the crown. In the struggle, the crown was split in half by a sword. Shan Jing Tian secured one half, while Guard Zhao faced Wang Jiu's men alone but was ultimately overcome by the poison and killed.

Wang Jiu continued, explaining that because Precious Pei Pavilion couldn't present the completed Phoenix Crown, Su Jade Pavilion seized the opportunity to present a backup crown they had prepared, earning nationwide acclaim and establishing their current prominence. He admitted that despite having half of the original crown (or the blueprint/knowledge from it), their current skills weren't sufficient to fully comprehend its craftsmanship.

He reminded Su Jue that he could never fully master some techniques their father taught him, revealing they were Phoenix Crown techniques. He admitted that because Su Jue couldn't master them, and Pei Pei, with his natural talent, could easily replicate the techniques after merely seeing them, they had broken Pei Pei's hand to eliminate the competition and threat. Wang Jiu stated that he and Su Jue's father had done this for Su Jue and the Su family's sake.

Su Jue felt like a clown, realizing he had never truly surpassed Pei Pei. Wang Jiu was unapologetic, viewing their actions as necessary for survival in the business world. He revealed that after the crown was lost, Su Jue's father spread rumors that Pei Chufeng had stolen it himself. Pei Chufeng lived in fear, not daring to let Pei Pei display his talent, yet Pei Pei could still learn the techniques from just seeing blueprint parts.

Wang Jiu and Su Jue's father had decided Pei Chufeng was a liability and fabricated rumors of his death in a fire years later, then secretly brought him to the dungeon. Wang Jiu stated their purpose was to stop Pei Chufeng's investigation into the theft, prevent him from teaching Pei Pei, and exploit his skills for the Su family. Now, he had one more use: to use his hand to utterly destroy Precious Pei Pavilion.

Pei Pei returned to work at Precious Pei Pavilion, attempting to move past his grief. The business had suffered due to the funeral. Shan Dandan proposed a promotion plan to attract customers: those who purchased items at the main store would receive a small gift if they picked up their goods at the other stores, encouraging patronage across their locations. Pei Pei approved the plan, and despite his sorrow, he forced himself to smile, determined to lead the family business.

Meanwhile, as Shan Shuangshuang tidied Shan Dandan's room, she discovered a small gold bead that Pei Pei had given Dandan. She immediately recognized the intricate gold-melting technique used on it, identifying it as the unique technique found only on the Moon Phoenix Crown. Remembering her father's last words about being exploited, she became convinced the Pei family was responsible for his death.

Believing such a complex technique could only be mastered through years of studying the actual crown, she confronted Pei Pei privately. She pointed out his mastery of several lost techniques unique to the Phoenix Crown, asking who taught him. Pei Pei claimed his father, as chief designer, knew many techniques, and he had seen the actual crown as a child and learned from his father, adding that some techniques could be found elsewhere.

Shan Shuangshuang specifically questioned the gold-melting technique, stating it was unique to the Phoenix Crown and the "Sun Family" technique (implying it wasn't widely known or taught). She doubted he could have mastered it just by seeing it a few times as a child, arguing it would require a decade of deep study.

When Pei Pei insisted he had only learned it in childhood, she pressed further, questioning who his father had learned from, noting the crown was made by many masters and his father, despite being the chief designer, couldn't have mastered all techniques as a young boy. She challenged the reasonableness of his claims, hinting at his father's possible involvement in the crown's disappearance. Their discussion was interrupted by A'Liu, who arrived with urgent bad news.

Officials descended upon Precious Pei Pavilion, announcing the City Lord's order to seal the property. They declared that Pei Chu Feng, the former head, had been found guilty of stealing the Moon Phoenix Crown. Pei Pei vehemently denied the accusation, demanding evidence and denouncing it as slander.

The officer produced a letter, allegedly from Pei Chufeng, confessing his greed, his conspiracy with the thief Shan Jing Tian to steal the crown, his subsequent fear, and his willingness to surrender to justice, burn himself as penance, and turn over all Pei family assets to the state. The officer stated the City Lord's aide had received the last piece of the Phoenix Crown along with the letter and asked Pei Pei if the handwriting and fingerprints were familiar.

Unseen by the officials, a flashback showed Wang Jiu forcing a frail, possibly deranged, Pei Chufeng to write the letter in the dungeon. Wang Jiu told Su Jue not to blame him, claiming "you all forced my hand." At Precious Pei Pavilion, as the weight of the accusations and the apparent evidence became clear, Shan Dandan fainted.

Episode 21 Recap

After Shan Dandan fell asleep, Pei Pei discovered Shan Shuangshuang waiting outside. He sensed she was hiding secrets and urged her to reveal them, but Shan Shuangshuang surprised him by easily kicking him down, demonstrating her impressive martial arts skills.

No longer concealing the truth, Shan Shuangshuang told Pei Pei that her biological father was the great thief, Shan Jing Tian, a renowned figure in the Jiangnan region, known for his martial arts and helping the poor before gaining a notorious reputation. Shan Shuangshuang recounted the events surrounding the Moon Phoenix Crown. She explained that a mysterious person appeared when her mother was gravely ill, claiming the amber in the crown contained ancient holy water that could cure any disease.

In desperation, her father stole the crown, but the medicinal claim was a lie. After the theft, her father was killed and silenced, while the Pei family took all the jade carving techniques and treasures. She accused the Pei family of ruining her own family. As Shan Shuangshuang drew her sword to attack Pei Pei, Shan Dandan suddenly stood in front of him to protect him.

Shan Dandan pleaded with her sister to stop, arguing that Pei Pei was also a victim and that even their father in heaven wouldn't want her to kill. Shan Shuangshuang then revealed that Shan Jing Tian was "her" father, not Shan Dandan's. She told Shan Dandan how her father had taken her in as an orphaned child when her own father, Guard Zhao, died while escorting the crown, asking her to treat Shan Dandan as her sister for life.

Hearing this, Pei Pei realized that Shan Dandan was Guard Zhao's daughter. Despite the revelation, Shan Shuangshuang was determined to avenge her father. She lunged at Pei Pei, but Shan Dandan blocked the blow with her body, injuring her hand. Although hurt, Shan Dandan couldn't bear to abandon their years of sisterhood and turned to leave the Pei residence. Despite the injury to her hand, Shan Dandan was deeply saddened by the revelation.

She recalled Shan Shuangshuang's care over the years and couldn't believe they weren't related. She felt abandoned by the sister she held dearest. Pei Pei tried to comfort her, suggesting things would get better, but Shan Dandan only felt the loss of her closest family.

Pei Pei, though he had issues with his father, Pei Chufeng, found it hard to believe he was a thief, remembering him as a proud man dedicated to jade carving, not someone who would risk everything for techniques he already mastered before the crown incident. Meanwhile, the Pei family faced financial ruin. Shopkeeper Hao had dismissed all staff, and their shops were sealed.

He offered his savings to help, as did A'Liu, who gave up the money he had saved for his marriage. Seeing themselves, once wealthy, now dependent on the savings of their former staff, Shan Dandan felt the urgent need to find a way to earn money. She considered asking Shan Shuangshuang for help but stopped at her door, remembering they were not blood sisters, and didn't go in.

Shan Dandan sought help from former acquaintances and business contacts, but many refused to assist now that the Pei family had fallen. Pei Pei decided to collect a deposit owed to them by Boss Qin from a past transaction. Upon arriving at the jade store, they were met by Cui Liu, who was now Boss Qin's second wife and the lady boss of the shop.

Seeing their plight, Cui Liu taunted them, refusing to return the deposit unless they paid the full amount for the goods immediately, or unless Pei Pei knelt and begged her. Shan Dandan, enraged by Cui Liu, who used to be their servant, retorted sharply about her marrying an old man, leaving Cui Liu furious and thwarted. News that Shan Shuangshuang had left the Pei family reached Su Jue. He immediately ordered his men to find her, no matter the cost.

Back at the Pei residence, Pei Pei felt immense guilt that Shopkeeper Hao and A'Liu were supporting them. He was particularly upset when A'Liu announced he would take a part-time job doing kitchen work and groceries. A'Liu eventually found where Shan Shuangshuang was staying. Following the lead, he discovered Su Jue's men lurking outside her residence. Realizing they posed a threat, A'Liu confronted them, but he was no match for them and was knocked unconscious.

Shan Shuangshuang heard the commotion, came out, and quickly defeated Su Jue's men. A'Liu, before completely passing out, managed to give Shan Shuangshuang some rice dumplings he had brought for her. Seeing A'Liu injured, Shan Shuangshuang was heartbroken. While he was unconscious, she took him back to the Pei residence and left without being seen by Pei Pei or Shan Dandan. Pei Pei discovered the unconscious A'Liu and brought him inside, calling for a doctor.

The doctor saved A'Liu's life but diagnosed that his legs were crippled. Pei Pei was furious and determined to find out who was responsible, waiting for A'Liu to wake up and tell him what happened. Believing Su Jue was behind the attack, Shan Shuangshuang, wearing a mask, went to Su Jade Pavilion to confront him. Finding the shop empty, she searched and discovered a secret room. Inside, she found another hidden mechanism leading deeper.

There, she found a dishevelled and seemingly mad Pei Chufeng, along with a draft of a letter confessing his conspiracy with Shan Jing Tian to steal the Moon Phoenix Crown. When Su Jue returned home, his men told him about the masked woman who searched for him, fought them, and took away a crazy old man from the backyard.

Su Jue and Shopkeeper Wang were terrified and strictly ordered the men not to speak of it to anyone, denying the existence of the secret room. Shan Shuangshuang brought the deranged Pei Chufeng back to the Pei residence, where Shan Dandan was. Pei Pei returned and was shocked to see his father, whom he believed to be dead, alive but insane. Shan Shuangshuang revealed she found him imprisoned in the Su family's dungeon, likely since the fire.

This enraged Pei Pei, who wanted to immediately seek revenge on Su Jue, but Shan Dandan stopped him, urging him to remain calm and plan carefully. Pei Chufeng remained lost in his delusion, fearful and repeating fragmented phrases.

Episode 22 Recap

Upon finding another confession letter in the Su family's dungeon, Shan Shuangshuang confirmed that the one the City Lord received years ago was written by Master Pei under duress. This discovery solidified their belief that the Su family was behind the scheme. Shan Shuangshuang and Pei Pei discussed the possibility that the other half of the Phoenix Crown might be with the Su family, noting the irony if the Sus possessed it but couldn't master its intricate techniques.

Pei Pei shared that his father, Pei Chu Feng, had mastered the basic skills of the Phoenix Crown, and he himself learned the techniques partly from his father. Pei Pei considered seeking justice from the City Lord but realized it was too dangerous as his father was a wanted criminal, and they lacked solid evidence proving he was held by the Su family.

He concluded that the Su family would likely remain quiet for a time to conceal their crimes, focusing on their own safety for now. Meanwhile, at the Su family's, Su Jue debated with Wang Jiu about the person who took Pei Chu Feng away without reporting to the authorities. Wang Jiu believed it was the Pei family attempting to protect him.

Su Jue considered reporting Pei Chu Feng to the City Lord at the Pei Residence but quickly realized this would expose their knowledge of his whereabouts and past imprisonment. They decided their best course of action was to pretend ignorance. A servant then reported that the thugs Su Jue hired to find Shan Shuangshuang had been found dead in an alley, leaving no clues. Su Jue expressed deep worry about Shan Shuangshuang's safety.

Shopkeeper Hao recounted the events of eighteen years prior to Shan Shuangshuang. He described how the Pei family's Phoenix Crown was ambushed en route to the City Lord's mansion, putting the City Lord and Jade Cloud City in danger. At that critical moment, Su Jade Pavilion presented a "substitute" phoenix crown, saving the city and bringing the Su family immense fame. Shopkeeper Hao argued that making such a complex crown in only a few days suggested a premeditated plan.

Now that Master Pei had been found in the Su family's dungeon, Shopkeeper Hao stated it was clear the Su family was the real mastermind. Shan Dandan offered support to her sister, assuring her she wasn't alone. Pei Pei noted that Su Jue now knew their location and would likely cause trouble. They needed to find a safer place for Pei Chu Feng. Shan Shuangshuang offered her family's quiet house in West Alley.

Pei Pei decided to move his father there, and Shopkeeper Hao would go along to care for him. A'Liu, injured while protecting Shan Shuangshuang, expressed his happiness that she was safe. Shan Shuangshuang deflected his attempt to express deeper feelings. Pei Pei brought Dr. Qu to treat A'Liu's legs, which were severely shattered. Dr. Qu explained he could set the bones manually, but the process would be excruciatingly painful, and A'Liu might still limp even after recovery.

Pei Pei trusted Dr. Qu and asked him to proceed, stepping out of the room unable to watch A'Liu suffer the intense pain of the bone setting. While waiting outside, Pei Pei examined Shan Dandan's pendant and discovered the legendary water agate amber hidden inside. Shan Dandan explained that her father, Guard Zhao, had encased the extremely precious amber in glass because prolonged exposure would cause it to oxidize and become dull.

The glass must have shattered, leading to the amber being encased in alum. They realized Guard Zhao had hidden it on her. This find led them to believe the other half of the Phoenix Crown was likely with the Su family, who had been unable to replicate or understand its techniques without the crucial amber. After treating A'Liu, Dr. Qu agreed to see Pei Chu Feng the next day. Shan Dandan asked if he could treat Master Pei's mental state.

Dr. Qu diagnosed Pei Chu Feng's condition as resulting from prolonged exposure to cold and dampness affecting his heart, combined with a major shock leading to a mental collapse. He proposed using acupuncture to expel the cold, followed by stimulating his mind intensely, like using "poison against poison," in hopes he might regain his sanity. He warned the method was risky and could worsen his condition if unsuccessful.

Pei Pei accepted the risk, believing his proud father would choose this chance over living as he was. The acupuncture was completed, and they attempted the mental stimulation. When initial attempts failed, Shan Shuangshuang brought out the half-Phoenix Crown. Upon seeing it, Pei Chu Feng reacted violently, retching and then fainting. Dr. Qu assured them he was not in danger but had simply fainted and needed careful nurturing. Pei Pei remained by his father's side.

Soon after, Pei Chu Feng woke up, calling out "Pei'er," leading to an emotional reunion between father and son. Shan Shuangshuang continued to care for A'Liu, who again tried to express his feelings, but she gently changed the subject. Suddenly, a masked person appeared near A'Liu. Shan Shuangshuang quickly confronted them, asking if they were sent by Su Jue, and easily subdued the attacker.

Before she could question them further, the assassin bit their tongue and committed suicide to prevent identification. Worried about the others, Shan Shuangshuang rushed back to find Pei Chu Feng awake and recovering. Pei Pei introduced her as Shan Jingtian's daughter.

Seeing her, Pei Chu Feng recounted the events of the past eighteen years, detailing how Su Zhi Yan had initially sought to steal the Phoenix Crown for personal gain, but after the struggle, the crown broke and scattered, leaving the Su family with nothing. He described how the Su family continued to spread rumors, saying he stole it himself, controlled Precious Pei Pavilion's business, threatened him, and forced Pei Pei out of the Jade Competition.

He revealed that Wang Jiu had eventually locked him in a room, where he was imprisoned for over ten years, wishing for death during that time. Just as he finished speaking, another group of assassins attacked, clearly sent to silence him. Shan Shuangshuang swiftly defeated them, and they also committed suicide. Realizing their location was compromised, she decided to return to the Pei Residence to ensure everyone's safety.

At Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue was furious about the repeated failures to kill Pei Chu Feng, especially after being told a "martial arts expert" was protecting him. While he was berating his subordinates, a representative from the City Lord's office arrived, summoning him urgently. At the City Lord's mansion, the City Lord informed Su Jue that the Empress was critically ill and wished to see the original Phoenix Crown from years ago, which she regretted losing.

The Emperor's messenger had delivered an urgent decree ordering the crown to be recreated quickly based on the original blueprint. Su Jue mentioned the substitute crown they had provided years ago, but the City Lord dismissed it, stating the Empress was dissatisfied with it and had stored it away. The City Lord stressed that time was of the essence and that Su Jade Pavilion was the only hope for Jade Cloud City.

He warned that failure would result in severe consequences for the Su family and the entire city. He handed Su Jue the blueprint and ordered him to begin immediately. Back at Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue and his artisans studied the blueprint all night. The artisans reported that recreating the extremely detailed jade carving and almost invisible hollow partitions was impossible with their current skills unless they had the finest raw stones, like those of mythical legend.

Su Jue was frustrated by their inability. They also reported difficulty with the pearl-embedding and edge-melding techniques, although they could imitate Miss Shan's inlay technique used for one third of the crown. Su Jue called them useless. The supervising official from the City Lord's office arrived, adding pressure and criticizing Su Jue, reminding him of the city's precarious situation. Su Jue became enraged and lashed out, but Wang Jiu intervened, calming him down and worrying about offending the official. Wang Jiu acknowledged Su Jue's pressure and asked about finding a replacement for the amber needed for the crown. He reported that Boss Qin had found a large, valuable pearl.

Episode 23 Recap

The envoy reporting to the City Lord expressed strong dissatisfaction with Su Jue's craftsmanship on the Phoenix Crown, stating his jade carving skills were far from sufficient, and even the welding and wings were crude. The envoy worried about the Empress's potential punishment and suggested letting Pei Pei from Precious Pei Pavilion attempt to create the crown as well, so the City Lord could present the finer one.

The City Lord initially found this absurd, as Precious Pei Pavilion had been seized due to Pei Chufeng's theft of the Phoenix Crown, and seeking help from a criminal's son seemed impossible. However, the envoy argued that Pei Chu Feng had been dead for years, his son was not involved in the past crime, and Pei Pei's skill was evident during the recent jade carving competition where he achieved mastery quickly even with one hand.

While acknowledging the earlier copying incident, the envoy emphasized the urgency of pleasing the Emperor. They proposed that if Pei Pei succeeded, his merit could justify restoring Precious Pei Pavilion's status. The City Lord agreed that pleasing the Emperor was the priority and found the suggestion logical. Soon after, Pei Pei received the City Lord's secret order to recreate the Moon Phoenix Crown, which was an Imperial decree needing to be completed within a deadline.

Pei Pei deduced that the City Lord must have first tasked Su Jue, found him incapable, and only turned to Precious Pei Pavilion as a last resort under Imperial pressure, recognizing the City Lord's petty nature. However, he saw this as their only opportunity to restore Precious Pei Pavilion's prestige and expose the Su family's misdeeds.

He accepted the task but stipulated one condition: the City Lord must send guards to protect the Pei Residence and ensure everyone's safety until the deadline. Inside the Pei Residence, the family discussed the daunting task. Pei Pei felt confident about the jade carving, gold and silver fusion, and other techniques he knew, especially since Shan Shuangshuang had mastered many of the crown's special techniques.

However, the most challenging parts were acquiring Sun Wu's seamless welding and Lady Cheng's colored blade skills. Pei Chufeng suggested Pei Pei visit these retired masters to seek their guidance. Pei Pei agreed but pointed out the significant cost of the necessary materials, given their current financial state. Shan Dandan then proposed using her dowry, which the Old Madam had given her, remembering she had once convinced the madam to keep it as her betrothal gift.

Seeing the critical need, she offered it, and everyone agreed they had to go all out. Meanwhile, at Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue was working on his own crown, dissatisfied with the quality of the jade and his progress. He became angry upon hearing that soldiers were surrounding the Pei Residence, realizing the City Lord must have tasked Pei Pei with creating the crown.

He feared Pei Pei's potential success, dismissing the idea that his father, Pei Chu Feng, who had been reported insane, could help. However, he worried he still couldn't surpass Pei Pei alone. A subordinate reminded him of other designers from back then, specifically Lady Cheng, the colored blade master, and Sun Wu, the seamless welding expert. Su Jue immediately ordered the subordinate to find them quickly before Pei Pei could.

Pei Chufeng provided Pei Pei with the addresses of Sun Wu and Lady Cheng. Due to the tight deadline, Shan Shuangshuang suggested they split up: she would go to Lady Cheng, while Pei Pei and Shan Dandan would search for Sun Wu. They cautioned each other to be careful. Around the same time, Su Jue arrived at Lady Cheng's remote home. He introduced himself as Su Jue, owner of Su Jade Pavilion and son of Su Zhi Yan.

Lady Cheng recognized his father's name and asked about him. Su Jue informed her his father had passed away years ago. Su Jue then straightforwardly requested her help to reforge the Moon Phoenix Crown. Lady Cheng claimed she had long forgotten her colored blade skill, which Su Jue found hard to believe. He pressed her, asking if she would refuse him but help Pei Chufeng's son. Lady Cheng responded that she simply did not want to help him.

She then revealed that her relationship with Su Zhi Yan was poor because his skills were mediocre, and he resorted to petty thefts and tricks, stating she would never associate with him. Pei Pei and Shan Dandan continued searching for Sun Wu deep in the woods, walking for a long time until Shan Dandan became tired. Just as Pei Pei offered to carry her, they fell into a deep pit.

They quickly realized it was a trap and too high to climb out, fearing they might die there. Shan Dandan expressed her fear, but Pei Pei comforted her, saying if he had to die with her, he would have no regrets, which surprisingly made Shan Dandan feel happy. As they were talking, they heard a sound from above, and a man appeared—it was Sun Wu.

Pei Pei called out, introducing himself as Pei Pei from Precious Pei Pavilion and asking for help. Sun Wu was surprised to hear his name and asked if he was Pei Chufeng's son, expressing happiness upon seeing a descendant. He then lowered a rope to help them climb out.

Once safe, Pei Pei explained he was looking for Sun Wu to ask for his seamless welding technique to restore the Moon Phoenix Crown, revealing that the City Lord ordered him because Su Jue's skills were inadequate. Sun Wu acknowledged Su family's lack of skill but questioned who would dig such a deep pit. He claimed it was to trap wild animals like wolves, implying he dug it himself.

When confronted, he readily agreed to help, stating that Pei Chufeng was a good friend for years, and he would certainly help with his family's matters. Back at Su Jade Pavilion, Su Jue was surrounded by the colored pigments he had acquired, noting that he still couldn't find any trace of Sun Wu and wasn't even sure if the man was alive.

However, he wasn't overly concerned, believing that if his family couldn't find him, the Pei family with less resources wouldn't either. With the colored blade pigments in hand, he decided to focus on the crown's appearance, believing the colorful structure, gemstones, and jade would attract notice, and they could abandon intricate welding and engraving details. He also received news that the Empress's condition had worsened and he needed to hurry.

He resolved to work in seclusion until the crown was finished, after which he would need craftsmen to help with color and details. Soon after, Shan Dandan returned to the Pei Residence, bringing Sun Wu with her. Pei Chufeng was overjoyed to see his old friend, calling out to him. Sun Wu, however, was completely shocked, believing Pei Chufeng was dead and questioning if he was seeing a ghost. Pei Chufeng reassured him that he was alive.

The two old friends shared an emotional reunion, embracing and crying. Pei Chufeng said he would tell Sun Wu about his years of hardship later and expressed how Sun Wu's arrival was a blessing that would help them revive the crown's glory. As they reviewed the crown's progress, Pei Chufeng noted that while the welding (with Sun Wu's help) and major polishing were progressing well, they lacked the fine tools needed for intricate filigree and gildings.

He lamented that despite Pei Pei's skill, these details were hard without proper tools, and Precious Pei Pavilion's century-old reputation relied on such meticulous craftsmanship. He believed only Su Jade Pavilion in the entire city had the necessary fine tools, molds, and furnaces. Shan Shuangshuang immediately volunteered to retrieve them, insisting she was the only one who could handle it.

Despite everyone's concerns about the danger posed by the ruthless Su family, she was resolute, adding that she had personal matters to settle with the Su family. She planned to return to Su Jade Pavilion under the pretense of helping Su Jue and secretly swap their tools, arranging to meet Shan Dandan at Su Residence's back gate just before midnight to hand over the finished components and retrieved items.

Shan Dandan and A'Liu were worried about Shan Shuangshuang's safety, but Pei Pei reassured them. He believed Shan Shuangshuang was skilled in martial arts and meticulous in her plans, being the most mature among them, and they should trust her decision as some issues only she could resolve.

Pei Pei also shared some good news: he and Sun Wu had almost completed the crown's body and major welding work, and his own jade belt and pendant components were also taking shape, making the crown's reappearance feel imminent. Later, Shan Shuangshuang arrived at Su Residence, appearing injured. Su Jue was extremely concerned and excited to see her, carrying her into the house. He asked what happened and where she had been.

After getting some water, she revealed her background: she was Shan Jingtian's daughter, the one who stole the Phoenix Crown. She confessed she joined Su Jade Pavilion to investigate who hired her father, believing he was framed. However, she claimed she was wrong about Su Jue and later discovered the Pei family was the real culprit, vowing revenge on them.

This admission shocked Su Jue, but he seemed relieved when she declared the Pei family her enemy, telling her Su Jade Pavilion would always be her home. She explained she left the Pei family after their property was seized, having attempted to kill Pei Pei but was stopped by Shan Dandan and outnumbered, forcing her to escape.

She claimed she had been wandering and was recently robbed by bandits outside the city gate, leaving her with no choice but to return to Su Jade Pavilion. Su Jue comforted her, promising she would not suffer grievances again, and offered to get her food. After resting briefly, Shan Shuangshuang joined the work at Su Jade Pavilion's workshop, even correcting a craftsman's technique. Su Jue was pleased to have her help.

She noticed how exhausted Su Jue looked and urged him to get some sleep. She offered to help with the crown, stating her expertise in gold and silver inlay and jade-wrapping techniques was unmatched in Su Jade Pavilion. She claimed her father had given her remnants of the crown, allowing her to master the craft over the years and promising she would not let the Pei family succeed.

Su Jue was delighted, calling her his lucky star returned by God in his toughest time. She made him promise to rest. After Su Jue left, Shan Shuangshuang continued working, then discreetly gathered some tools and a box of colored pigments. Later that night, she went to the back gate of Su Residence and handed the tools and colored pigments to Shan Dandan, who was waiting. Unbeknownst to them, Su Jue watched this exchange from a distance.

Episode 24 (Ending) Recap

Shan Shuangshuang handed the colored blade and gold paints to Shan Dandan. As Shan Dandan was applying the gold paint, Su Jue arrived. He noted the late hour and asked why Shan Shuangshuang was not sleeping, then grew suspicious, asking if someone was there. Shan Shuangshuang denied it, which only increased his suspicion. As Su Jue moved towards the back door, Si Ruyu, who was serving Su Jue, appeared and stopped him, declaring he was there to resign.

Su Jue, shocked by Si Ruyu's unexpected defiance after years of obedient service, questioned his sanity. Si Ruyu retorted that it was Su Jue who was full of madness. He spoke of his decade of service, highlighting how Su Jue treated him as a slave, punching bag, and lackey, hitting and scolding him arbitrarily. He confessed his envy for how Pei Pei treated his attendant, A'Liu, and his wish for even a respectful glance from Su Jue.

Si Ruyu firmly stated he would no longer perform heinous tasks for Su Jue. Angered, Su Jue dismissed him, telling him to collect his pay the next day and depart. After the colored blade was brought back to Precious Pei Pavilion, everyone was greatly pleased, noting the purity and power of the color and how it made the Phoenix Crown almost identical to the original replica.

With other stages completed by Senior Sun Wu and others, only the intricate inlay and final welding remained, tasks entrusted to Pei Pei alone. He worked late into the night to finish the crown. Shan Dandan stayed behind to keep him company, worried about his health, but Pei Pei urged her to rest so she would have energy to assist him later if needed. Before she left, she gave him half of something for safekeeping.

Shan Shuangshuang knew Si Ruyu had deliberately intervened to help her. She waited for him outside the Su Residence. Si Ruyu, being skilled in martial arts, revealed that he had noticed her calm and steady breathing upon her return to the residence the other day, despite her internal injuries, knowing she had injured herself. He mentioned Su Jue had pushed him away when he tried to check on her. Shan Shuangshuang asked why he hadn't exposed her.

Si Ruyu explained that while he didn't know her specific reasons, he knew her actions targeted Su Jue. He spoke of his own exhaustion from serving Su Jue and enduring his insults, stating he would not harm Su Jue himself as he was employed, but he would not stop someone else from making Su Jue pay for his deeds.

Shan Shuangshuang praised him and advised him to find a good place to settle, as serving Su Jue was not worth it. Si Ruyu admitted to having nightmares from the bad things he had done for Su Jue and felt relief at leaving. He told her that Su Jade Pavilion's influence was gone, Su Jue was bound to lose, and she would make him pay for every evil deed.

Shan Shuangshuang stated she was already a stranger to Su Jue and he could do as he pleased. Meanwhile, Wang Jiu learned that Sun Wu was assisting Precious Pei Pavilion and hurried to inform Su Jue, expressing worry that they would lose the competition, especially since Precious Pei Pavilion had reportedly almost finished the crown. Su Jue replied that he was already aware and insisted they would not lose.

Later, Su Jue went to Shan Shuangshuang's room, noting her light was still on. He asked her if she would marry him if he won the competition. Shan Shuangshuang promised that if he won, she would wait for him there in her wedding dress. Su Jue felt it was like a dream, and they embraced. Several days passed with Pei Pei working diligently on the Phoenix Crown. Shan Dandan saw how hard he was working and decided he needed nourishment.

She went to the market to buy pigeons, selecting the best wild ones. While she was talking to the shopkeeper, men hired by Su Jue abducted her. Shortly after, Su Jue sent a message to Pei Pei via his attendant, demanding he bring the Phoenix Crown alone to the forest if he wanted to save Shan Dandan. Shan Dandan awoke to find herself tied up, furious at Su Jue for kidnapping her.

Su Jue told her to wait for her lover to rescue her. Pei Pei soon arrived with the Phoenix Crown. Shan Dandan urged him not to give it to Su Jue, asking how he would explain it to the City Lord. Pei Pei declared he didn't need to explain to anyone; his only concern was her safety. Su Jue ordered him to open the box.

Pei Pei argued that Su Jue was going insane over a mere Phoenix Crown and should have won the competition with his own ability, not by presenting a stolen crown. Su Jue retorted that he took the crown by his own ability and questioned if Pei Pei felt shame when he took away the person he loved. After giving the Phoenix Crown to Su Jue, Pei Pei moved to leave with Shan Dandan, but Su Jue reneged on his word.

He ordered his men to surround them, stating he had changed his mind and now only one of them would leave alive, demanding they decide who would die. Shan Dandan asserted that Pei Pei was not the type of person to abandon her. Unexpectedly, Pei Pei stated that he didn't want to die, claiming he hadn't lived enough and prioritizing his own life. Shan Dandan was heartbroken and devastated by his apparent selfishness.

She accused him of being despicable and realized her perception of him as loyal and true had been a delusion. She told Su Jue to kill him instead. Su Jue found their exchange amusing but then declared killing Pei Pei's lover would be more satisfying. As Su Jue prepared to strike Shan Dandan, Shan Shuangshuang arrived and intercepted his dagger.

It was revealed that upon receiving Su Jue's message, Pei Pei had immediately sent word to Shan Shuangshuang, knowing she would not stand by while her sister was in danger. Addressing Pei Pei, Shan Shuangshuang called him despicable. However, acknowledging they now had the Phoenix Crown, she told Su Jue to let Pei Pei go to avoid further complications and took Shan Dandan with her. Pei Pei then quickly left. Pei Pei and Shan Dandan hurried away from the forest.

As they went, Shan Dandan expressed her fear upon receiving the message and her worry for his safety, noting his composure during the confrontation. Pei Pei admitted his calmness was a pretense. He explained that he had anticipated Su Jue would break his word and revealing his plan to Shan Dandan earlier, their "argument" was staged to buy time until Shan Shuangshuang arrived, as he knew she would come to her sister's aid.

He added that he had to be clever to cooperate with her. Shan Dandan asked if he had hurt her feelings during the pretense, and he replied that he was used to it. Back safely, Shan Dandan worried about how they would face the City Lord the next day without the Phoenix Crown. Pei Pei comforted her, telling her not to move and assuring her their safety was the most important thing.

He confessed that after the dangerous incident, he realized her importance to him was far greater than he had imagined, asking her to promise never to risk her life or leave him. Despite the circumstances, Pei Pei appeared confident and told her to wait for his return the next day. The next morning, both Pei Pei and Su Jue went to the City Lord's hall.

Su Jue arrived first and presented his replica of the Moon Phoenix Crown, describing its elaborate craftsmanship. The City Lord was impressed, saying it was astonishing and even better than the one Su Jue's father, Su Zhiyan, had made. Su Jue anticipated Pei Pei's inability to present a crown. However, when Pei Pei arrived and presented his work, the City Lord was even more impressed.

He noted that while it resembled the Moon Phoenix Crown, it lacked the old colored gold and carving marks yet was even more exquisite. He asked how Pei Pei had achieved this without the colored blade.

Pei Pei explained that while replicating the old crown was possible, he was inspired by the principle of "green derives from, yet surpasses blue," and by advice from Senior Sun Wu and his father, Pei Chufeng, who urged him to create something that showcased the progress of Precious Pei Pavilion over the years.

Instead of merely replicating the original, he created a new design using refined natural colors and soft hues, with intricate hollow carving and filigree, and a new detachable welding method, making it pure, noble, and even more exquisite. The City Lord lauded Precious Pei Pavilion for exceeding expectations and ordered Pei Pei's crown rushed to the capital.

He promised Pei Pei that if the Emperor favored this new crown, not only would all past wrongs against Precious Pei Pavilion be absolved, but he would protect them and ensure their standing in Jade Cloud City. The City Lord also complimented Su Jade Pavilion's crown, acknowledging its improvement and innovation, but the comparison was clear. Su Jue conceded defeat, saying, "I lost. So be it." Defeated, Su Jue returned to his home.

He found Shan Shuangshuang waiting for him, dressed in a wedding gown. He reminded her of their agreement that she would only wear it if he won and told her to take it off as he had lost. Shan Shuangshuang replied she had never worn a wedding dress and would wear it a bit longer. Su Jue said seeing her in the wedding dress for him once made him feel he could die without regrets.

Shan Shuangshuang asked about "her" regrets, mentioning finding her father's killer or personally killing Pei Pei. Su Jue then confessed that he was not the clean man he pretended to be.

He began recounting the multitude of evil deeds the Su family had committed against the Pei family over the years, including tampering with the Jade Competition, framing Pei Pei for plagiarism, monopolizing raw materials, hiring someone to frame Pei Pei, bribing a servant to poison Madam Pei, and imprisoning Pei Chufeng for years in their dungeon. He admitted there were too many bad things to list.

Then, he confessed the truth she cared about: years ago, Shan Jing Tian was killed by the Su family, and the Moon Phoenix Crown was stolen by them. He revealed that he was the son of her father's killer, and she had been hating the wrong person. He felt relieved having revealed all his secrets, seeing himself as Su Jue without secrets.

He regretted that he couldn't marry her, calling the time she spent playing along with him the happiest of his life. He asked why she didn't expose him if she knew the truth. He said he didn't want to be exposed, as nothing mattered more than spending a few more days with her. He confessed he was exhausted and could not scheme anymore. As he confessed, it became clear he had poisoned himself.

He noted that the people he expected were late and he might not be able to wait. He asked Shan Shuangshuang to tell Pei Pei that he won and he was not as good as him, regretting not admitting it sooner. He reflected on a life of competition, now losing his skills, his life, and her.

Shan Shuangshuang asked what he had done and where the antidote was, but he said it was too late and told her not to cry. He said he regretted many things but never regretting loving her. In his final moments, he asked if she had ever loved him. Unable to answer, Shan Shuangshuang cried and held him as he died, a tear falling from his eye.

Following Su Jue's confession and death, the City Lord ordered a thorough investigation into the Su family's years of persecution against the Pei family, uncovering the full extent of the crimes, including the theft of the Moon Phoenix Crown. Wang Jiu was sentenced to death and executed. The Pei family's reputation was fully restored.

Because the Emperor was highly satisfied with Precious Pei Pavilion's new Phoenix Crown, he granted them 1,000 acres of land, 10,000 golden taels, and a golden signboard, appointing Pei Pei to oversee the national jade tribute. Su Jade Pavilion ceased to exist in Jade Cloud City, while Precious Pei Pavilion became renowned throughout the land as a top jade shop. In the aftermath, Shan Shuangshuang opened her own jewelry shop.

Meanwhile, Pei Pei and Shan Dandan shared a quiet moment together. Despite a light rain, Shan Dandan wanted to play. Pei Pei told her she couldn't but added that her legs could run fine, prompting her to tease that if he was concerned about her health, it meant he would pursue her again. They exchanged playful declarations of affection, each professing to love the other more.

Shan Dandan declared he had won her heart and asked him to love her eternally, to which he agreed, stating that having her by his side was all he wanted. As the rain stopped, they saw a rainbow.