Episode 18 recap: Luo Yi Ning Discovers the Source of the Fugu Poison

In Episode 18, Chen Lan receives pastries sent from the palace, which fills her with joy, as the palace's favorable attitude seems to indicate that her daughter, Luo Yi Xiu, is well-regarded. This sudden good news transforms Chen Lan's demeanor toward Luo Yi Xiu; she no longer criticizes her and even allows her to indulge in the delicious treats.

Naturally, Luo Yi Xiu is overjoyed and generously shares some pastries with her friend, Lin Mao. Seeing this, Lin Mao mistakenly believes that Luo Yi Xiu has relaxed her standards due to her indulgence, and he quickly encourages her not to lose confidence. He explains that everyone has strengths and weaknesses, sharing that while he struggles with academics, Luo Yi Xiu possesses a kind and pure heart, which are invaluable qualities.

Lin Mao's words warm Luo Yi Xiu's heart. However, this scene is noticed by Lin Mao's sister, Lin Hai Ru, who frowns with concern. She is acutely aware of Chen Lan's emphasis on family reputation; if Chen Lan discovers her brother's close relationship with Luo Yi Xiu, it could lead to unnecessary trouble. Therefore, she privately advises Lin Mao to keep his distance to avoid any complications.

Just as Luo Yi Xiu is about to leave, she remembers the auspicious fortune she received a few days prior and decides to return to give Lin Mao a good luck charm. However, she inadvertently overhears the conversation between Lin Mao and Lin Hai Ru, leaving her feeling a bit disheartened. She quickly composes herself and buries her feelings deep down.

Meanwhile, Luo Cheng Wen, the eldest son of the Luo family, encounters a young woman named Liu Qing Hua, who is in distress after losing her money. Seeing her resemblance to Luo Yi Ning’s mother, he feels sympathy and offers his help, providing her with the Luo residence's address for future repayment.

Upon hearing of this, Luo Yi Ning invites Luo Yi Xiu to enjoy some almond pudding, and they have a pleasant conversation. When discussing the delicacy of fugu, Luo Yi Xiu inadvertently reveals her experience with it, which is intriguingly connected to Chen Lan.

It turns out that someone from the Luo family had suffered from fugu poisoning, and the person skilled in preparing fugu is someone Chen Lan knows well. Soon after, Liu Qing Hua arrives at the Luo residence to repay the money, and her striking resemblance to Luo Yi Ning’s mother wins the favor of the matriarch, who, upon learning of Liu Qing Hua's difficult background, decides to take her in until she can find her family.

Although Chen Lan is displeased, she outwardly maintains an appearance of generosity and acceptance. Meanwhile, Lu Jia Xue's interest in Luo Yi Ning intensifies. Upon hearing that Luo Yi Ning has gone out, he quickly sets out to find her. After witnessing Luo Yi Ning's brave response to harassment, Lu Jia Xue gains a newfound respect for her.

He intervenes to help her and tries to get closer to Luo Yi Ning, but she remains guarded. Ultimately, Lu Jia Xue insists on taking her to his residence under the pretense of teaching her chess. Although Luo Yi Ning does her best to keep up, she cannot match Lu Jia Xue's impressive skills.

She repeatedly requests to leave, but Lu Jia Xue finds various reasons to keep her there. Faced with his persistence and a challenge to make a wager, Luo Yi Ning firmly declines, stating that she is unwilling to make any bets. Her calmness and resolve surprise Lu Jia Xue, causing him to admire her even more.