Episode 10 recap: # Cui Xing Zhou Decides to Keep Liu Mian Tang Close
In Episode 10, as night falls, Cui Xing Zhou lies in bed, his mind in turmoil over the events of the day. He wonders if he acted too impulsively. Liu Mian Tang isn’t just an object to be given away; he feels guilty at the thought of wasting her life. Even the suggestion from the maid to send her back to her family doesn’t sit well with him, as he remains indecisive.
When he enters the room, he finds Liu Mian Tang beautifying herself in front of a mirror, looking gentle and serene. He approaches her, takes the comb from her hand, and starts to help her with her hair. As he combs, he senses that Liu Mian Tang has picked up on his unease, her eyes reflecting caution. Softening, he makes up a story about a dream in which he left her alone, feeling sorry for her.
He asks Liu Mian Tang what kind of life she wants. She smiles brightly, saying that with Cui Xing Zhou and the pottery workshop, she feels content. She then takes out a newly crafted plate adorned with a vivid dragonfly and asks him to write a poem on it. Cui Xing Zhou picks up the brush, his strokes flowing gracefully, perfectly complementing the artwork. Liu Mian Tang’s eyes light up with admiration, and she praises his talent, vowing to treasure the plate like a gem.
Through their exchange, Cui Xing Zhou gains clarity. He resolves that regardless of what others think, he wants Liu Mian Tang to stay by his side.
The next day, he shares his thoughts with his friend Zhao Quan. Upon hearing this, Zhao Quan nearly jumps out of his seat, warning Cui Xing Zhou that he’s jumping into a pit of fire. Rumors are spreading that Prince Huaiyang is seeking a new princess; if Cui Xing Zhou were to take Liu Mian Tang as a concubine, she might eventually resent him for it.
However, Cui Xing Zhou is resolute and dismisses Zhao Quan’s concerns, determined to follow his heart.
He Zhen has always harbored feelings for Prince Huaiyang, and when she hears that he is going to marry someone else, she seems to lose her spirit entirely. She stops eating and sleeping. Seeing her in such distress, Liu Mian Tang goes to comfort her.
He Zhen, touched by Liu Mian Tang's kindness, regards her as a close sister. Meanwhile, Lian Bing Lan is ambitious and determined to become a princess. Aware that the royal household will have many concubines, she starts thinking about how to find herself an ally. After some consideration, she decides that He Zhen would be the most suitable choice, as she comes from a prominent family, making her a fitting candidate.
As for Liu Mian Tang, her humble background disqualifies her from even being a concubine. Therefore, Lian Bing Lan approaches He Zhen, suggesting that she become a concubine. He Zhen is overjoyed and immediately shares the news with Liu Mian Tang. Happy for her friend, Liu Mian Tang rushes to tell Cui Xing Zhou.
However, when Cui Xing Zhou hears this, he becomes furious. The next day, he confronts Lian Bing Lan, warning her to stay away from He Zhen. Lian Bing Lan, recognizing his firm stance, quickly finds an excuse to send He Zhen away.
Upon hearing this, He Zhen's spirits plummet, and she quickly falls ill. Liu Mian Tang, feeling heartbroken, rushes to take care of her. Zhao Quan also prescribes medicine, advising He Zhen to rest and avoid going outside for fourteen days.
In truth, Zhao Quan understands that He Zhen's illness is rooted in emotional pain, which will take time to heal. Yet he believes that once Cui Xing Zhou's major affairs are settled, He Zhen may find peace.
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