Episode 18 recap: Gu Yan Xi was punished and had to reflect in the Shengge Temple.
Fu Dong firmly refused to go to the Song family and would rather serve as a servant in the Hua family. Hua Zhi comforted her and promised to protect her. When Gu Yan Xi was feeling restless, he learned about Xiao Shi's suicide. He used Xiao Shi's suicide note to interrogate Gu Yan Xuan about the Zhou family's rebellion. Gu Yan Xuan mistakenly thought that Xiao Shi had reported them and became very panicked. Gu Yan Xuan had previously used Xiao Shi to kill the queen in order to sever ties with the Zhou family and silence those who knew the truth.
Gu Yan Xi and Gu Yan Xuan were summoned to the palace but were put under house arrest. Gu Chengtao warned Gu Yan Xi not to bring up the disgraceful matters of the royal family again. The fruit farmers from Xishan gifted Hua Zhi an apple tree, and she suggested writing auspicious words on the apples. Hua Zhi wrote the character "Yan" and missed Gu Yan Xi.
Shao Yao sought Shen Huan to learn the art of elephant performance, while Fu Dong made snacks to give to the Seven Constellation Department.
Hua Jing and Emperor Song Chengzu visited once again, intending to take Fu Dong away. However, Hua Zhi refused, citing a generous dowry. The Third Madam supported Fu Dong's freedom, while the Second Madam considered the family's reputation, causing hesitation within the Song family.
Emperor Song Chengzu angrily left, and Hua Jing chased after him. Although Hua Xian returned home, she avoided meeting Lin Wan and gave money to Xia Jin E to buy medicinal supplies. Xia Jin E noticed the injury on Hua Xian's arm, revealing that she had once again suffered domestic violence. Hua Zhi handed the money to Berlin to provide clothing for Hua Xian's resettlement.
Hua Jing felt neglected in the Song family and vented her anger on Hua Zhi.
Qin Yi Niang secretly visited Bao Li but was discovered and expelled by the Second Madam. She confided in Yang, the shopkeeper, and he showed interest in her, inviting her to drink. After drinking, they spent the night together. Hua Jing barged in and proposed a plan to save Qin Yi Niang.
Qin Yi Niang returned to the Hua family with a bundle and intended to harm Hua Zhi. Taking advantage of Hua Zhi's absence, she sneaked into her room and stole a pouch. As she was about to leave, she saw Hua Zhi's writing desk and hesitated, reminiscing about the past. At that moment, Bao Xia broke in, and Qin Yi Niang was caught red-handed.
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