Episode 15 recap: Mu Rong Hanbing and Mei Kaishao were granted marriage separately.
The entire court, including civil and military officials, opposed the imperial examination under the influence of Mei Xuan. They believed that the Great Desert Nation ruled through military might and there was no need for the imperial examination. On the other hand, Mu Rong Hanbing and other civil officials argued on the basis of reason, stating that Mei Xuan and his associates were monopolizing power. The Emperor acted as a mediator, acknowledging the imperial examination while appeasing the military officials. However, to prevent potential rebellion from the military, the Emperor used this opportunity to punish Wang Daren, a civil official. Nonetheless, the selected talents were placed in appropriate positions, as the court couldn't go back on its word, and the top three performers were admitted to the Hanlin Academy.
In private, the Emperor reassured Mu Rong Hanbing that Wang Daren's punishment was just a temporary measure, and he would be brought back in the future. The Emperor hoped that Mu Rong Hanbing would continue to fulfill his duties as a civil official. Due to Mei Kaishao's assistance to Mu Rong Hanbing, the Emperor summoned her to the palace and rewarded her. Without hesitation, Mei Kaishao expressed her desire for gold, and the Emperor generously granted it. The Emperor also mentioned that he would send a significant gift to Mei Kaishao, which would be delivered to the Mei residence alongside the gold. Mei Kaishao was overjoyed by this news.
Mu Rong Hanbing escorted Mei Kaishao back home, and their eyes met with reluctance to part. Later that night, after finishing dinner at home, Mei Kaishao refused to return to her room and sat in the hall, waiting for the Emperor's reward. Mei Xuan reminded Mei Kaishao that she and Mu Rong Hanbing were not a suitable match, but she retorted that it was their own business if Mu Rong Hanbing and Mei Xuan didn't get along. However, if the Emperor issued an order, Mei Xuan wouldn't defy it. Mei Xuan was left speechless.
Soon, the imperial decree arrived, granting marriage to both Mu Rong Hanbing and Mei Kaishao, but the intended spouses were not each other.
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