Didi
USA
I consider this one of those 'weird episodes' with a strange mix of unnecessary cutesy scenes (that are so common in modern dramas that I tend to steer clear of them) and a few scenes with more depth. So we have filler and a few interesting scenes.
1. Si Jin appears to still believe she has a chance. At this point I am beginning to find her character about boring because other 'obsessed in twisted love characters were way more interesting *ahem, Xuan Nu, quite well done, in my opinion** but she redeems herself by using what is probs forbidden magic to create a copy which she will send to YH's side (redeem as in garner my interest this is of course an action worthy of condemnation) This copy will look like SuSu. We also learn she is apparently quite skilled at carving (what? she was pretty good)
2.FJ (and this is where I think the writers get it right because she is supposed to be 'a child' because she is so young) is sobbing away feeling like the world is against her. In typical teenager fashion she has refused to eat and believes everyone hates her (I think a lot of us can recall acting so over the top) . After reading pillow book, I don't blame her. FJ truly was born under an unlucky star.
3. But one of FJ's more likable characteristics is her ability to bounce back. She decides to dedicate herself to being the Queen (per Mi Gu's clever manipulation, something any other person could have seen through her but not her) I imagine she is patting herself on the back for this idea (if you read pillow book, you will find she often is priding her cleverness when she is in fact quite dumb but instead of being annoying it is extremely adorable)
4.FJ's entire goal is quite mercenary, and I like her honesty: she is finally dedicating herself to studying so she can return to heaven.
5.Si Ming shows up and gives her a gift: ancient records related to Dong Hua which 'might help her'. DH apparently removed his name from the rock of three incarnations which would explain, I suppose, why he can't/won't marry. It is revealed that he did not go to the mortal realm for six trials but did it to fulfill her wish for a romance (DH is a jerk, in my opinion because he did that for himself, not her)(also this did not happen, i think, in the novel)
6.FJ is discovered by Dijun moping around his palace. He CRUELLY (his plan of scaring her off doesn't seem to be working well) tells her he does not want to see her again. He is about to shut the doors in her face but she turns into a fox and tackles him. This causes him to spit up blood. She confirms that he has lost his powers, and she expresses fear he will be in danger//he brushes her off and says that he will be fine. When she brings up the rock, he is clearly not happy and asks her 'who told you' and he learns who did. He tells her that because of this no one can be in a relationship with him. He turns to go, but she hugs him, and he clearly looks conflicted.
7. In a shocking surprise she steals his sword, cuts off her own tail (ouch) because the tails of a fox can become a weapon, and runs to the rock to carve his name in it. We also learn he removed his name from the rock because he possesses the power over life and death in all 6 realms and did it to be invulnerable i.e. have no weakness. This is why he has no emotions (so I'm not sure if he can help it or not because she triggers emotions in him that he should not be feeling...I think she is his fated calamity...JOF anyone>)
8.Apparently Dijun regarded his future relationship as ill fated, meaning they would have an unhappy end (as in the mortal realm) and gave up love for the sake of the universe (arguably respectable but incredibly inconvenient for me since I and FJ want them to be together. I am not nearly as selfless and can only condemn his actions).
9. I feel SO BAD FOR HER and she is trying so hard to keep it together. Everyone warns her that her current path will not work out--i.e. even their temporary romance caused DH to lose his powers. It is a warning to him that if he does not let her go then bad things will happen. FJ learns that someone else's name is next to her. We also see YH and BQ are next to each other. She tries to carve DH's name on the rock. But it doesn't work. So sad!
10. DH watches her until she passes out. He is visibly shocked (recall he never shows emotions) and carries her back. He sends her back, tells start lord to go receive punishment for knowingly breaking the law by giving her the record, and is concerned about the pain of losing her tail as it is the most painful way to harm a 9 tail fox (by removing its tail). Poor FJ! i am starting to pity DH because I think he cares for her. He wouldn't have gone after her otherwise.
11.It seems she has made herself gravely ill by removing her tail. Unfortunately no one is around to help (this is like the general theme of her life--FJ is basically constantly suffering in pillow book and no one is around to help so she becomes very resilient). Finally phoenix and BQ show up. Things aren't looking good. I personally think that FJ wouldn't mind dying at this point (However she did say that if he lived she would live, if he died she would die -->major theme from pillow book)
12.DH arrives to explain the situation. BQ snaps at Dijun and explains that her people are stubborn and won't change their mind when in love (well-said BQ). She asks how dare he meddle in her love life i.e. the mortal realm arc, knowing this. Dijun actually apologizes.
13.She opens her eyes (FJ) and says 'who do you think I see' and BQ says 'Lord Dong Hua, whom you care for deeply'. DH sits beside her, looking like he is about to cry, and caresses her face. She wakes up and holds his hand and then crawls into his arms.
MY THOUGHTS: I think that when DH had his name removed from the rock he may have set him and FJ up for an ill fated love. Because (in the novel) you aren't supposed to know your destiny and simply knowing it can change it. I think that by avoiding whatever ill fated love was in his future it inevitably brought him together with FJ (think of Oedipus--his father got rid of him knowing he would kill him but he still wound up killing anyways. Fate isn't so easy tricked) Being an extremely smart person, and also lacking in the emotion realm, he decided to address his growing feelings by (selfishly) marrying her as a mortal. In this way he could satisfy his own growing feelings and hers. What I don't think he expected was for her feelings to be so true and deep, nor did I think he thought his own feelings would be so deep (recall that his trial ended early because he could not handle her supposed affair, something he himself engineered in advance to make it easier for him to abandon these feelings). DH has allowed FJ to continue to enter his life, he continues to see her even though he says mean things to her, AND he goes out of his way to check on her when he should be avoiding her. It's like journey of flower a little. He keeps her at arms length but continues to search her out making it impossible for the relationship to truly end. DH could have easily not checked in on her. He is the lord of the heavens. He can do whatever he wants. Even the celestial emperor does not argue with him. But he still went to see her. Which will continue to make it hard for her. I think he is a lot more selfish than I originally thought. I don't view FJ as selfish (she is rude and more than a little hopeless) because she is trying her best--she has made her intentions clear in an honest way--and she hasn't resorted to underhanded tricks like others facing an ill-fated love (i.e. Si Jun or Xuan Nu). If anything she is persistent and of course, very young. But DH is old as time. He should know better! Even when she tries to stop loving him she can't. Poor girl. I support you 100%. I really hope they do your story in the sequel (if they get past the scandal and do one! however a sequel would be difficult if they followed pillow book because of the liberties taken with the script; they may need to just do their own thing and incorporate some aspects of pillow book but someone else owns the rights...maybe she will sell them the rights?)
1. Si Jin appears to still believe she has a chance. At this point I am beginning to find her character about boring because other 'obsessed in twisted love characters were way more interesting *ahem, Xuan Nu, quite well done, in my opinion** but she redeems herself by using what is probs forbidden magic to create a copy which she will send to YH's side (redeem as in garner my interest this is of course an action worthy of condemnation) This copy will look like SuSu. We also learn she is apparently quite skilled at carving (what? she was pretty good)
2.FJ (and this is where I think the writers get it right because she is supposed to be 'a child' because she is so young) is sobbing away feeling like the world is against her. In typical teenager fashion she has refused to eat and believes everyone hates her (I think a lot of us can recall acting so over the top) . After reading pillow book, I don't blame her. FJ truly was born under an unlucky star.
3. But one of FJ's more likable characteristics is her ability to bounce back. She decides to dedicate herself to being the Queen (per Mi Gu's clever manipulation, something any other person could have seen through her but not her) I imagine she is patting herself on the back for this idea (if you read pillow book, you will find she often is priding her cleverness when she is in fact quite dumb but instead of being annoying it is extremely adorable)
4.FJ's entire goal is quite mercenary, and I like her honesty: she is finally dedicating herself to studying so she can return to heaven.
5.Si Ming shows up and gives her a gift: ancient records related to Dong Hua which 'might help her'. DH apparently removed his name from the rock of three incarnations which would explain, I suppose, why he can't/won't marry. It is revealed that he did not go to the mortal realm for six trials but did it to fulfill her wish for a romance (DH is a jerk, in my opinion because he did that for himself, not her)(also this did not happen, i think, in the novel)
6.FJ is discovered by Dijun moping around his palace. He CRUELLY (his plan of scaring her off doesn't seem to be working well) tells her he does not want to see her again. He is about to shut the doors in her face but she turns into a fox and tackles him. This causes him to spit up blood. She confirms that he has lost his powers, and she expresses fear he will be in danger//he brushes her off and says that he will be fine. When she brings up the rock, he is clearly not happy and asks her 'who told you' and he learns who did. He tells her that because of this no one can be in a relationship with him. He turns to go, but she hugs him, and he clearly looks conflicted.
7. In a shocking surprise she steals his sword, cuts off her own tail (ouch) because the tails of a fox can become a weapon, and runs to the rock to carve his name in it. We also learn he removed his name from the rock because he possesses the power over life and death in all 6 realms and did it to be invulnerable i.e. have no weakness. This is why he has no emotions (so I'm not sure if he can help it or not because she triggers emotions in him that he should not be feeling...I think she is his fated calamity...JOF anyone>)
8.Apparently Dijun regarded his future relationship as ill fated, meaning they would have an unhappy end (as in the mortal realm) and gave up love for the sake of the universe (arguably respectable but incredibly inconvenient for me since I and FJ want them to be together. I am not nearly as selfless and can only condemn his actions).
9. I feel SO BAD FOR HER and she is trying so hard to keep it together. Everyone warns her that her current path will not work out--i.e. even their temporary romance caused DH to lose his powers. It is a warning to him that if he does not let her go then bad things will happen. FJ learns that someone else's name is next to her. We also see YH and BQ are next to each other. She tries to carve DH's name on the rock. But it doesn't work. So sad!
10. DH watches her until she passes out. He is visibly shocked (recall he never shows emotions) and carries her back. He sends her back, tells start lord to go receive punishment for knowingly breaking the law by giving her the record, and is concerned about the pain of losing her tail as it is the most painful way to harm a 9 tail fox (by removing its tail). Poor FJ! i am starting to pity DH because I think he cares for her. He wouldn't have gone after her otherwise.
11.It seems she has made herself gravely ill by removing her tail. Unfortunately no one is around to help (this is like the general theme of her life--FJ is basically constantly suffering in pillow book and no one is around to help so she becomes very resilient). Finally phoenix and BQ show up. Things aren't looking good. I personally think that FJ wouldn't mind dying at this point (However she did say that if he lived she would live, if he died she would die -->major theme from pillow book)
12.DH arrives to explain the situation. BQ snaps at Dijun and explains that her people are stubborn and won't change their mind when in love (well-said BQ). She asks how dare he meddle in her love life i.e. the mortal realm arc, knowing this. Dijun actually apologizes.
13.She opens her eyes (FJ) and says 'who do you think I see' and BQ says 'Lord Dong Hua, whom you care for deeply'. DH sits beside her, looking like he is about to cry, and caresses her face. She wakes up and holds his hand and then crawls into his arms.
MY THOUGHTS: I think that when DH had his name removed from the rock he may have set him and FJ up for an ill fated love. Because (in the novel) you aren't supposed to know your destiny and simply knowing it can change it. I think that by avoiding whatever ill fated love was in his future it inevitably brought him together with FJ (think of Oedipus--his father got rid of him knowing he would kill him but he still wound up killing anyways. Fate isn't so easy tricked) Being an extremely smart person, and also lacking in the emotion realm, he decided to address his growing feelings by (selfishly) marrying her as a mortal. In this way he could satisfy his own growing feelings and hers. What I don't think he expected was for her feelings to be so true and deep, nor did I think he thought his own feelings would be so deep (recall that his trial ended early because he could not handle her supposed affair, something he himself engineered in advance to make it easier for him to abandon these feelings). DH has allowed FJ to continue to enter his life, he continues to see her even though he says mean things to her, AND he goes out of his way to check on her when he should be avoiding her. It's like journey of flower a little. He keeps her at arms length but continues to search her out making it impossible for the relationship to truly end. DH could have easily not checked in on her. He is the lord of the heavens. He can do whatever he wants. Even the celestial emperor does not argue with him. But he still went to see her. Which will continue to make it hard for her. I think he is a lot more selfish than I originally thought. I don't view FJ as selfish (she is rude and more than a little hopeless) because she is trying her best--she has made her intentions clear in an honest way--and she hasn't resorted to underhanded tricks like others facing an ill-fated love (i.e. Si Jun or Xuan Nu). If anything she is persistent and of course, very young. But DH is old as time. He should know better! Even when she tries to stop loving him she can't. Poor girl. I support you 100%. I really hope they do your story in the sequel (if they get past the scandal and do one! however a sequel would be difficult if they followed pillow book because of the liberties taken with the script; they may need to just do their own thing and incorporate some aspects of pillow book but someone else owns the rights...maybe she will sell them the rights?)
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***I review as I view the show. I sincerely hope this episode is better than the last one. It barely held my attention**
1. Ghost princess (I ALWAYS forget her name) journeys to Kunlan Mountain seeking the aid of Taoist Zi Lan with the goal of securing his aid to help the child. The Kunlan disciples are extremely unhappy with this request and not only refuse but threaten her with death if she does not immediately leave.
2.Li Jing appears and appeals on behalf of their relationship with the celestial tribe but the disciples insist that they follow only Mo Yuan (who is technically celestial) Li Jing draws his sword and before a fight breaks out 16th appears. Princess requests the use of the elixir cauldron. She explains the reason for the request.
3.After praying to their master, 16th promises to guard the sea of innocence and never return to Kunlan or contact the ghost tribe woman to atone for his sin of helping the ghost tribe(a bit extreme, I think, and a cowardly move designed to allow him to avoid any future entanglements with her that could lead him to make some tough choices...)
4. The scene changes to Ye Hua and Bai Quan who are doing...calligraphy together? It seems she is supporting him as he learns to use his right hand. Being Ye Hua I am surprised he isn't ambidextrous. Or able to write with his toes.
5.Cheng Yu (second prince's ex lover) (who eavesdropped while collecting sugarcane and learned of the calamity from Dong Hua's conversation) makes an unusual request--to touch Bai Quian, because she has never met a female high god. (I appreciate her boldness)
6.Bai Quian expresses her concern in the most transparent ways--she is concerned about his arm but instead of really saying it, she says it would be a shame if he couldn't paint again. They pose (Cheng Yu, the kid, and Bai Quian ) for a portrait that Ye Hua paints. Cheng Yu takes the chance to ask Bai Quian to invite Fengjiu to the heavens because she 'got her into trouble'. Bai Quian agrees.
7.Ye Hua does not put Cheng Yu in the painting (cute). A joke is made that he 'doesn't have enough stamina' I.e. his injury has impacted his sexual virility. Annoyed, he bodily grabs Bai Quian and leaves, presumably to have sex with her and make a point.
8. OMG this is the scene from the intro, when he crawls on the bed over her with his hair hanging down. She says it wouldn't be appropriate for them to have sex at the moment (basically), she says she has ordered all of Su Su's things sealed away which leads to the witty remark 'I already burned all of her things' (because he really did). It's kind of strange that she is jealous of herself.
9.FINALLY she acknowledges their mutual affection and discusses scheduling the wedding. Ye Hua is so happy he breaks down into tears (awwwwwwwww). I am proud of her for finally admitting what we already knew many episodes ago. She even says she wants to be with him forever.
10.Several open mouth kisses ensue, filled with passion. I def. think they go all the way here (if anyone is interested in that)
11.CHANGE SCENE Li Jing has WAAY too much make up on in this scene but still looks good as he reflects on his fate and how things may have been easier if he had not been born into the ghost tribe. Ghost princess learns that Si Yin was a woman, but isn't upset (not in her character). She instead expresses respect for her because she is direct and isn't afraid to love or to hate. I like that.
12. My theory that the two of them in fact make passionate love is confirmed by the clothes strewn everywhere (though censorship means they are still covered from the neck down in robes of some kind. why does china have such strict censorship laws? )
13. The ghost royalty receives the medicine from Kunlan mountain, delivered by a disciple. He will not tell her what happened to 16th/Zi lan. I guess this is all he can do for her since he is unwilling to pursue a relationship with her. The child immediately awakens. It's so sad because his mother who was so desperate for him to live is not there.
14.We learn Zi Lan used half a lifetime of cultivation to save him. Zi Lan says too much cultivation is useless now that they are at peace (but little does he know....that the demon king is stirring)
15. Ye Hua really has the prettiest hair.
16.Bai Quian explains she never saw her mentor in him, which is huge for Ye Hua who has always wondered if he was replacement for Mo Yuan. She accuses him of acting more elderly than Dong Hua . Given how peaceful everything is something is sure to happen to shatter it.
17. Ye Hua orders that someone stand guard outside the bell and meanwhile Si Jin is with Ye Hua's mother and implying that Ye Hua has been bewitched/tricked/seduced (I find this plot device to be extremely weak and contrived and founded on nothing other than their surprise at him falling in love so quickly. They have absolutely no reason to suspect this, and even were it true, why would they want to stop a marriage between the two?) She also brings up Bai Fengjiu who stole the lamp I guess they are implying that she is also a seductress?Or colluding with Bai Quian. This is so dumb.
18. Si Jin is seeking to prevent the marriage by implying Bai Quian is dangerous and not to be trusted. I respect Si Jin's tenacity but this is such a dumb plot. So now his mom is out to investigate.
19. Si Jin and the mother burst in. Who gets sick from cold tea??? Watch it this is a dumb scene. He compliments Bai Quian for giving him the recovering elixir in the tea, which boosts her image and leads the mom to immediately do a 180 and move forward with the marriage (all in the span of seconds). It gives Bai Quian a chance to show proper to eitquette, raining on Si Jin's short lived and poorly contrived plot.
20.A Li shares that Bai Quian and Ye Hua have been secretly meeting up, undoubtedly added more fire to Si Jin's hate.
21.In a sudden move, Yi Hua's dad, who has barely said anything the entire friggin season, insists that Ye Hua go through a trial because he killed the heavenly beasts so now he has to go the mortal realm. Now this is just really bad writing and completely random (I think). SO DUMB. But I guess it serves as filler during the months leading up to the wedding.
____
I give it a 7 because the plot at times just seemed incredibly random and the conflicts incredibly unecessary but they need to make it stretch for a certain number of episodes.
1. Ghost princess (I ALWAYS forget her name) journeys to Kunlan Mountain seeking the aid of Taoist Zi Lan with the goal of securing his aid to help the child. The Kunlan disciples are extremely unhappy with this request and not only refuse but threaten her with death if she does not immediately leave.
2.Li Jing appears and appeals on behalf of their relationship with the celestial tribe but the disciples insist that they follow only Mo Yuan (who is technically celestial) Li Jing draws his sword and before a fight breaks out 16th appears. Princess requests the use of the elixir cauldron. She explains the reason for the request.
3.After praying to their master, 16th promises to guard the sea of innocence and never return to Kunlan or contact the ghost tribe woman to atone for his sin of helping the ghost tribe(a bit extreme, I think, and a cowardly move designed to allow him to avoid any future entanglements with her that could lead him to make some tough choices...)
4. The scene changes to Ye Hua and Bai Quan who are doing...calligraphy together? It seems she is supporting him as he learns to use his right hand. Being Ye Hua I am surprised he isn't ambidextrous. Or able to write with his toes.
5.Cheng Yu (second prince's ex lover) (who eavesdropped while collecting sugarcane and learned of the calamity from Dong Hua's conversation) makes an unusual request--to touch Bai Quian, because she has never met a female high god. (I appreciate her boldness)
6.Bai Quian expresses her concern in the most transparent ways--she is concerned about his arm but instead of really saying it, she says it would be a shame if he couldn't paint again. They pose (Cheng Yu, the kid, and Bai Quian ) for a portrait that Ye Hua paints. Cheng Yu takes the chance to ask Bai Quian to invite Fengjiu to the heavens because she 'got her into trouble'. Bai Quian agrees.
7.Ye Hua does not put Cheng Yu in the painting (cute). A joke is made that he 'doesn't have enough stamina' I.e. his injury has impacted his sexual virility. Annoyed, he bodily grabs Bai Quian and leaves, presumably to have sex with her and make a point.
8. OMG this is the scene from the intro, when he crawls on the bed over her with his hair hanging down. She says it wouldn't be appropriate for them to have sex at the moment (basically), she says she has ordered all of Su Su's things sealed away which leads to the witty remark 'I already burned all of her things' (because he really did). It's kind of strange that she is jealous of herself.
9.FINALLY she acknowledges their mutual affection and discusses scheduling the wedding. Ye Hua is so happy he breaks down into tears (awwwwwwwww). I am proud of her for finally admitting what we already knew many episodes ago. She even says she wants to be with him forever.
10.Several open mouth kisses ensue, filled with passion. I def. think they go all the way here (if anyone is interested in that)
11.CHANGE SCENE Li Jing has WAAY too much make up on in this scene but still looks good as he reflects on his fate and how things may have been easier if he had not been born into the ghost tribe. Ghost princess learns that Si Yin was a woman, but isn't upset (not in her character). She instead expresses respect for her because she is direct and isn't afraid to love or to hate. I like that.
12. My theory that the two of them in fact make passionate love is confirmed by the clothes strewn everywhere (though censorship means they are still covered from the neck down in robes of some kind. why does china have such strict censorship laws? )
13. The ghost royalty receives the medicine from Kunlan mountain, delivered by a disciple. He will not tell her what happened to 16th/Zi lan. I guess this is all he can do for her since he is unwilling to pursue a relationship with her. The child immediately awakens. It's so sad because his mother who was so desperate for him to live is not there.
14.We learn Zi Lan used half a lifetime of cultivation to save him. Zi Lan says too much cultivation is useless now that they are at peace (but little does he know....that the demon king is stirring)
15. Ye Hua really has the prettiest hair.
16.Bai Quian explains she never saw her mentor in him, which is huge for Ye Hua who has always wondered if he was replacement for Mo Yuan. She accuses him of acting more elderly than Dong Hua . Given how peaceful everything is something is sure to happen to shatter it.
17. Ye Hua orders that someone stand guard outside the bell and meanwhile Si Jin is with Ye Hua's mother and implying that Ye Hua has been bewitched/tricked/seduced (I find this plot device to be extremely weak and contrived and founded on nothing other than their surprise at him falling in love so quickly. They have absolutely no reason to suspect this, and even were it true, why would they want to stop a marriage between the two?) She also brings up Bai Fengjiu who stole the lamp I guess they are implying that she is also a seductress?Or colluding with Bai Quian. This is so dumb.
18. Si Jin is seeking to prevent the marriage by implying Bai Quian is dangerous and not to be trusted. I respect Si Jin's tenacity but this is such a dumb plot. So now his mom is out to investigate.
19. Si Jin and the mother burst in. Who gets sick from cold tea??? Watch it this is a dumb scene. He compliments Bai Quian for giving him the recovering elixir in the tea, which boosts her image and leads the mom to immediately do a 180 and move forward with the marriage (all in the span of seconds). It gives Bai Quian a chance to show proper to eitquette, raining on Si Jin's short lived and poorly contrived plot.
20.A Li shares that Bai Quian and Ye Hua have been secretly meeting up, undoubtedly added more fire to Si Jin's hate.
21.In a sudden move, Yi Hua's dad, who has barely said anything the entire friggin season, insists that Ye Hua go through a trial because he killed the heavenly beasts so now he has to go the mortal realm. Now this is just really bad writing and completely random (I think). SO DUMB. But I guess it serves as filler during the months leading up to the wedding.
____
I give it a 7 because the plot at times just seemed incredibly random and the conflicts incredibly unecessary but they need to make it stretch for a certain number of episodes.
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Spoilers Ahead1)In a scene that is just beautifully shot, Ming Lan jumps into the river after forcing her maid to jump. As she drowns, arrows fly past her, and she sees the doll that Yuan Ruo gifted her and she reaches up to grab it and clutches it close to her heart. She appears to be dying, and then suddenly a man dives in to rescue her.2)She awakens in a tent, her clothes are changed, and a little girl feeds her ginger soup. The little girl tells her that her father rescued her. This father then enters the tent, and Ming Lan gives him her family name and asks him to come see her later so she can reward him. He tells her she should protect her reputation and then looks directly at her, and this is when she recognizes that it is Second Uncle. He explains that he is a wanderer and looking for his son, that she was right about his mistress.3(Outside around the campfire we learn that Shitou, GTY's personal servant, has a sister who is part of this river gang and it was her who changed Ming Lan's clothes. She explains that GTY wasn't going to involve himself with the river bandits until he recognized the Sheng people, and then he saw her fall into the river and went to rescue her and she talks about how pretty she is (Pay attention to GTY's face when she says pretty I swear it is like he agrees with her I could be imagining it). Ming Lan observes Rong'er (the daughter) and then asks to walk with GTY.4)Ming Lan begins by saying she owes him for her life, and GTY tells her that every time she begins a conversation this way, it is to give him bad news. She tells him she is worried about Rong'er and her future, because if he continues this lifestyle she will have no repuation. GTY is evasive and tells her he wants his daughter to be happy, as she is now, but when she tells him that life is not easy for a woman and that he should plan ahead. The two discuss their lives, he talks about his stepmother, and how he learned she is evil, and Ming Lan opens up a bit about her own situation: always needing to be careful in order to protect herself. (It is evident from the way he looks at her that his feelings about her have essentially changed I think). After she leaves he tells Shitou to send a message to the guy they rescued so they can join the army (he takes her advice!).5)Ming Lan is reunited with her grandmother who is overjoyed that she is safe and sound. We are now entering the Yanzhou arc, which a lot of people may find not as interesting, but it gives us a broader insight into how big the Sheng family is, and introduces Brother He again is important to plot advancement.6)We are introduced to the provincial cousin Pinlan who is described as a 'naive and naughty monkey'--she will be Minglan's buddy out here. Since the rules are a lot less strict when you go to the countryside, Ming Lan will now have opportunities to do/learn new things. As long as they take male servants with them, there is more freedom to venture out and explore. 7)The weather is now cold, and GTY arrives to report for military duty. He is sent to the Huang Squad whhich i the lowest ranking squad. GTY does not protest nor does he reveal that he is a Marquis, he goes by the name of Bai. We learn that the general sent him to the lowest ranking squad because he doesn't seem to give a fig about recommendations, nor does he seem to like the idea of someone expecting him to give a stranger a good position8)Back to Ming Lan, she is struggling to shoot arrows while her cousins hunt rabbits with her. Back to GTY, his job seems to be digging graves. Back to Ming Lan: they appear to be celebrating the mid autumn festival. After showing the traditions, we learn that an in law is coming whom Pinglan does not like because they are obnoxious (seems like the 'new money trope' i.e. she was poor has money now but has the coarse attitude and rude attitude of a poor person/isn't refined). This New Money lady seems to wish that she marry her off to Ming Law and is not subtle in asking. She also seems to be intoxicated. Old Madam flat out refuses. 9)GtY believe that an attack is about to occur because it is too quiet and they are on a plain. He tries to notify the commander, but the general throws him out. He is given permission to lead out a cavalry (he has already gathered around him a little group of men who seem to respect him) and he gives orders for them to get all their friends and even the villagers prepared. Note: I think the drowning scene is incredibly powerful, and sad because she's always alone, even dying alone, but then GTY saves her :) He is always there for her when it matters the most.
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1)Yan Ran’s father and grandfather argue fiercely. Grandpa does not want her to marry Gu Ting Ye but the father could care less about his reputation he would use his daughter to form a connection with the Marquis house (recall, people think Gu Ting Ye is a wastrel, gambler, womanizer, good for nothing who rapes women).2)Big brother Chang stops by to visit Ming Lan and so plan 2 goes into action. The servant girl sent over by Big Madame tries to hit on Chang, who is extremely proper. He freaks out but Ming Lan handles it by telling the girl to apologize. Ming Lan explains the girl was sent by his mother and that she must respect his Mother and not insult the girl. 3)Yan Ran arrives to see Ming Lan in tears. She relates to her that when her mother was dying only Gu Ting Ye helped and she is still grateful to him. This does cause her to sway a little but Yan Ran is worried about his bad reputation. Yan Ran is sad because her marriage talk has created conflict with her father and grandfather, and upset that her father does not seem to love her. She feels responsible this will make her grandpa sick. Ming Lan encourages her to not give up and to have more faith her grandpa can handle this. Yan Ran is cheered up.4)Ming Lan tells Yan Ran’s grandmother of how Gu Ting Ye once helped her. It sounds like in her own way, Ming Lan is helping Gu Ting Ye in this. Elsewhere, Gu Ting Ye finally meets with the imperial tutor and against all odds seems to succeed in distancing himself from his past. The other concern is the wolf’s den of his family. But this is easy as he plans to separate himself from his family. Things look good.5)Miniang shows up at Yan Ran’s home and demands to be seen and serve tea. She causes a huge scene, makes grandmother ill, and otherwise humiliates the imperial tutor family. Miniang attracts the attention of neighbors and finally is granted an audience. Her insistence that Yan Ran drink her tea is calculated. If Yan Ran drinks it, she loses face and power long before the marriage. If she refuses, Miniang is the victim of someone looking down on her. Ming Lan steps in and calls her out. Miniang claims she is ignorant. Agaain Ming Lan calls her out. Again Miniang claims she is ignorant. Ming Lan then proceeds to politely ask her questions. Ming Lan then points out how odd that her parents had an honorable hard working living how did Miniang win up singing opera. Miniang answer is vague at best and so Ming Lan suggests she ask the Gu family for status how can Yan Ran grant it when they aren’t even married, Ming Lan points out re is no connection this is clearly slander. Miniang behaves dramatically saying she will just ie. Ming Lan watches this show calmly. Ming Lan says if she had married a common man she would have lived a peaceful life but she had loftier ambitions and is now a kept woman how are they basically to blame. Ming Lan accuses her of slander and attempting to ruin Yan Ran’s reputation, she can either walk out or be thrown out. 6)Later, the wife of imperial tutor visits old Madame to express gratitude for how well Ming Lan handles the situation, it seems that Yan Ran will marry a boy in their hometown. Ming Lan admits to her grandmother she should not have involved herself as it carries risk to her own reputation when challenged but Ming Lan admits she took the risk because she was counting on Miniang not knowing she was the a Sheng family, and the fact that the imperial tutor would cover it up. Her grand,other asks her if she is worried that this far will fall on her some day and her grandmother promises her she will one day be the lady of a house not a concubine, Ming Lan sees Yan ran off who leaves to marry, she is sad because she won’t see her anytime soon, and so her servants try to cheer her up with dessert.7) She runs into Gu Ting aye. He is most unhappy,8) he sits down and confronts her, asking her why she is basically trying to ruin his life. At first Ming Lan is cooly polite. She begins by calling into question his motive in marrying her friend. He admits it. She explains that women have few choices few options, everyone would know his motive,. Ming Lan rejects his belief that all will be rainbows for Yan Ran, instead she shifts to the consequences of Miniang behavior. And that she believes Miniang is a bad person who is not feeble or ignorant, as he insists, and clever and calculating. 8)Irritated, he accuses her of being judgmental. He the. Accuses her of manipulating the a Lord of Qi and manipulating him. He then tells her he should have tried to marry her to punish her and she angrily shouts at him that she would never marry him while he leaves, laughing. 9) Plan 2 of getting rid of Big Madame’s servants is starting to see results. Big Madame’s personal servant learns that the servants they sent are trying to seduce Chang, infuriating big Madame who is especially sensitive to these tricks because of Madame Lin. Elsewhere, Miniang learns that the next arrowhead prospect is fierce and in no way like Yan an. Miniang plays dumb. She continues to slip out but where is she going...?
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1) We open to Big Madame discussing the attention that the young lord Qi paid for Sixth Miss (Ming Lan). I know I am generalizing, but like many women, myself included, she analyzes it wondering if it means anything. Lord Qi merely wanted to help out Ming Lan whom he yes, likes, but Big Madame speculates if this is a part of Old Madame’s ambitions for Ming Lan (everyone is scheming to land the best husband, naturally you will think Ming Lan is doing this and has a motive, is Big Madame’s reasoning). While more mature than Molan, who was obvious in expressing her envy, as a parent Big Madame considers the situation. Still even she would be offended if Qi overlooked her own legitimate daughter but she acknowledges that her family though lacking in a title has a solid reputation and connections. However, Big Madame expresses frustrations that Rulan is not interested in the young lord merely interested in using him to instigate Molan. They also reflect that Hu’er is a grand example of the downside of marrying up it is better to marry the same class or down, 2)While stopping at the monastery, Ming Lan cleans her mothers tablet. Young Lord appears. This put Ming Lan in a difficult position. The risk and consequences of being caught would be devastating to her not to him, but she is also secretly pleased and trying to not let her desires conflict with having too lofty expectations. Having watched this scene many times, I think it is an indication of how out of touch with reality young lord is. He acts based on his own desire to meet with her and ignores the judgmental and cruel world that wouldn’t hesitate to use this information to ruin her life. It’s a very big risk, and short sighted. But he is also young.3)Ming Lan does try to explain the risk of his behavior. The consequences. And she highlights gender disparities. He swears on her mothers tablet to never forsake her. This is probably the most meaningful way to show his intentions. Still, she tells him not to seek her out. I have lost count how many times she has tried to shake him. But I admire his pursuit. And wonder if he would still be interested if she expressed her interest as quickly. 4)At home, Ming Lan continues to manage conflict in her household never punishing the servants sent to her from the other pavilions. Her father visits to lecture her on the polo match. He says she has shamed him. Ming Lan immediately admits she is wrong he tells her the gossip is accusing the family of trying to be overly ambitious and reaching above their status for Qi house. She tries to explain that the situation occurred because third brother ditched her and she only wanted the item for her friend, he tells her that the family reputation is more important basically. He punishes her to kneel.5) Elsewhere, Gu Ting Ye expresses his desire to momo to marry Yan Ran and she is extremely supportive. Naturally, Miniang overhears all of this. Momo expresses concern that his motive is for Miniang and cautions him no wife would be so tolerant as to be overlooked for a concubine,. Miniang enters, and Momo tries to explain she is working Miniang to each her but Gu Ting Ye is indulgent and quick to take her side. His actions mirror how Sheng treats Concubine Lin. Unlike Master Sheng, he will learn from his errors. Anyways, Momo wants him to keep his marriage plans completely secret from Miniang because it will create chaos. 6) Elsewhere, Ming Lan continues to soak up knowledge as she manages conflict between her servants and the servants of the various pavilions. (Remember, she cannot give Big Madame or Madame Lin cause to create conflict this is a learning test given her by Old Madame). Ming Lan acknowledges that she needs to continue to be self reliant and cannot rely on Old Madame, she tells Old Madame’s servant she has a plan and there is a reason why she is allowing all the drama to go on h checked. So we need to see what her plan is.7)Concubine Lin has tea with the master and expresses her desire to Molan married to the young lord. He shoots it down and tells her it might be possible to marry a title if the man was not great but duke Qi is out of everyone’s league. He tells her to give up on this crazy dream, he tells her he has been working on Molans marriage and to trust him. Madame Lin continues to talk about marriage with her daughter she does not see why her daughters marriage should be impacted by concubine status. Here concubine Lin says she is willing to embarrass the Sheng family to achieve her dream of seeing Molan married to a noble title and Molan agrees. They discuss shifting their focus to the sixth son of the Laing family. Though not the heir, it is still a noble family and he is legitimate. She is convinced that this will lead to a rank. 8)Part one of Ming LANs plan begins. She escorts Madame Lin’s personal servant out and encounter the servant girl sent over from Madame Lin’s pavilion in a romantic discussion with third brother Feng. It is extremely improper. Madame Lin decides to dismiss her as she is not retrieving helpful info and distracting her son. 9)Meanwhile, Gu Ting Ye keeps trying to meet the imperial tutor with Momo and keeps getting turned away. This is extremely insulting, but his reputation is in tatters.
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Spoilers Ahead1)Our episode begins with a conversation between Ming Lan and her servants. They comment on the gifts that Madame Wu continues to send and Ming Lan cryptically replies: Soon she won't be coming here anymore. Although she likes Madame Wu, her son is not someone she wishes to marry as she knows the scandal his family is trying to clean up.2)Elsewhere, Rulan learns from her personal maid that her father is planning to bring by poor scholars for Mo'er to consider marriage with. Rulan sees this as a slight (she doesn't see the long term pros of this) and suddenly a breeze causes her handkerchief to go flying. She chases it down and a gentleman she does not recognize picks it up but she can't approach a stranger, so he leaves it on a tree for her. They share a 'moment'--no words are spoken (I think he is Mo'er's marriage candidate). 3)That evening, Concubine Lin eats with Master Sheng and again brings up the subject of Mo'er's marriage. First she focuses on Ming Lan, who appears to be poised to marry a Count's son, and then shifts to her daughter and a fear that the scholar candidate will be unable to economically provide for her daughter. This bothers Master Sheng who again explains that the man he selected has an excellent future (I think Master Sheng is personally cultivating him, and believes he will succeed the way he himself has). Concubine Lin's nudging causes Master Sheng to lose patience and leave.4)On her way to pray at Yuqing Monastery Ming Lan accidentally spies Yuan Ruo with his wife, and it appears that they are wishing for a child. Ming Lan watches them until they disappear, and she is clearly sad, but as is her way, quickly hides it once her servants notice. The scene shifts to Yuan Ruo and his wife,, and it is evident (we know he is more passionate and laid back around Ming Lan, but here he is very restrained and polite) that his wife adores him.5)The next evening, Ming Lan visits with her grandmother and explains that she has been frequenting Yuqing monastery to pray for her mother. The subject changes as her grandmother brings up brother He, the doctor, and begins to list all the good things about him. Elsewhere, Concubine Lin receives a report from her personal servant that Ming Lan's visits to the monastery have a pattern: they coincide with the visits of Madame Wu and her son. Concubine Lin views this as brown nosing to the mother in law, and Mo'er begins to cry--is she destined to be laughed at by everyone? 6)Concubine Lin tells her daughter that she seduced Master Sheng and got pregnant in order to be taken in as a concubine. It was a desperate move but it paid well. Listening this, Mo'er tells her mother that she is willing to endure any shame to get what she wants--and her mother appears to be okay with this. After this, Mo'er is seen wearing the clothes of a maid and sneaking over to the temple. 7)Madame Wu leaves the temple and her son complains about her visiting constantly just to try to run into Ming Lan. She lectures her son and explains no one will marry him with this kind of situation--if he wants to make the girl he got pregnant a concubine (she is a mistress it seems) he must first marry an official wife. Annoyed, she leaves him alone.8)The scene shifts to Mo'er, and they are stopped by a woman (in her 30s?) who dismisses their excuse that they are here to view flowers because there aren't any. She tells them to not go ahead because there is a young man who is viewing flowers and their relationship might be tainted. Mo'er 'falls' and he walks over to her, and he checks on her. He takes her hands, and seems to be in a daze that Mo'er is there ('am I dreaming?' he says). Mo'er tells him some pretty words, that she knew he wanted to see her so she came. This makes him very happy (it seems to be genuine, but then, he could be only seeking one thing,,,,,)9)In the next scene, Mo'er walks with her sister and she tells her that nothing is ever final (this is pretty uncool, to go after your little sister's marriage candidate not out of love, which I could understand, but out of pride and to a lesser extent fear that you won't be living a lavish lifestyle). The three sisters share tea and Ming Lan points out the fact that Mo'er always goes after what she wants and she also raises the point that Mo'er looks similar to one of the servants in Lin pavilion, and basically that it could be problematic if they are not well taught because of this (I think she is implying that others might mistake her for her) which makes Mo'er uncomfortable (I would be sweating bullets)10)Ming Lan later has a conversation with Rulan who wants to know why she is hiding beautiful water lilies in her room. Ming Lan then says that a priest told her that she would face a disaster this year so she did this to help counter that prediction. Rulan, in her simple way, turn the subject to how she feels bad for her that people are gossiping out of envy. Because she defended her, Ming Lan gifts her, and Rulan is honest and says she wasn't really defending her its just that she has never seen Mo'er this jealous.11)Rulan tells her mother that Ming Lan is not as clever as her, and this annoys her mother who tells her that Ming Lan is very quick witted. She relays the info about the priest, and Big Madame assumes that the daoist priest must be exceptional for Ming Lan to praise him so she decide to visit. They then spy servants from Lin pavilion, and out of concern, Big Madame's personal servant goes to see why they are visiting. She is shocked to discover that it i Mo'er in disguise, and that she goes into a room and then the Sixth Son of the Wu family enters (HUGE SCANDAL).12)She immediately returns to Big Madame and takes her home to relay the news in private. Big Madame is shocked. Her personal servant urges her to be calm and use this as an opportunity to finally get rid of Concubine Lin. She and her servant decide to report this to the master. Master Sheng is shocked and does not believe it. There was even evidence of an affair (they went into the secret room after they left and found a bed). Since he doesn't believe her she tells him to go and see for himelf, and this horrifies him more since he is a father, she is his daughter--but Big Madame is adamant he must investigate this because all of his children will be impacted if it is discovered. 13)The reality now in front of him is so unbearable that Master Sheng breaks down into tears (this is literally a parent's worse nightmare, worse than having a daughter die is a daughter who has premarital sex). 14)The next day, Mo'er leaves as usual, disguised as her servant Yuanzai. Big Madame informs the minister of this and tells him to bring servants who have signed a death contract and surround the courtyard tightly (this is a legitimate wife in action). The Sheng family is about to change in a big way.
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Spoilers Ahead1)GTY 's efforts to avoid morning court do not go unnoticed. Although hunting, Eldest Brother Sheng tracks him down. His goal is not to scold him. The focus of the conversation is GTY complaining about the his wife for not being annoyed or angry about him accepting a new concubine, and not understanding his anger. Eldest brother asks him why he is not just honest with her, but GTY deflects this. GTY essentially admits that it is difficult to see true affection, however he can't tell her because she will just do whatever he wants, thus destroying the meaning. Eldest brother points out that he made her marry you, and now you are complaining. 2)Mi'er spends time with her good friend Lady Zhang of the ducal house of Ying (her father is a duke) and learns she is pregnant. She expresses her frustration with her husbands concubine Little Zhou, the younger sister of her husband's first wife who died (she was mistaken for the current empress/this is before the current emperor was crowned). She explains that she is 'very extreme' but the conversation shifts back to the child.3)GTY returns to visit his wife that evening who is planning to make baby clothes for her friends. He brought food over (yay!) and she seems to be 'politely' resistant to this, making excuses (maybe she doesn't want to talk?) and they basically wind up spending the night together.4)The scene later transitions to a jiju (polo)tournament. Ming Lan plays and wins a pair of baby shoes for her Lady Zhang (pregnant lady). Lady Qin casts a couple of nets to see if anyone will bite i.e. maybe spread some gossip but fails as everyone has nothing but good things to say. Lady Qin later laments that her daughter in law and stepson are gaining so many friends. She believes things will be more difficult. She believes that because they are working together (a power couple) they are a tough enemy, but she believes they can divide them.5)We transition to the emperor and his wife. Prince Huan visits to report that the Marquis organized a match. His uncle--the husband of Lady Zhang (pregnant lady) appears to be getting along with his wife better, which is important news for the empress (he is her brother). This is important because the emperor arrange this marriage--she is married to Shen Cong Xing (a general in the military as well). 6)We transition to GTY walking around his property with his wife. They are having a heart to heart. They are discussing Shen Cong's house, which although isn't harmonious, and although he has made mistakes, their undying loyalty to the emperor basically counterbalances this. In addition, the fact that Lady Zou paid with her life to protect the royal family--and her own--is the height of loyalty. He directly asks her if anything bothers her, and she admits not being able to remember her mother's face. He then asks her what if he becomes muddled like Shen Cong--and she tells him she would never kill herself, she would keep on living, but does he want her to live in fear of that happening,(basically she has conceded defeat before the battle is fought). He then asks her if she had another choice would she marry Yuan Ruou which makes her more angry. He wants to know if she hates him--she runs away and refuses to confront the issues he is trying to discuss. He finally says I just want you to love me. (They are basically fighting again)7)Lady Qin now knows they are fighting and GTY is sleeping in seperate rooms. Elsewhere, GTY becomes angry when he learns that Mi'er has seen a doctor. He at first wants to see her then decides not to and have the doctor report to him. In the next scene we see Ming Lan is handling the marriage of a close servant, who does not want to go, but Mi'er wants her to have a family and be happy (this is distinctively different from western servant culture, where the two really do not mingle). Back in his room, GTY tries to pressure Shitou to get info about Mi'er from Xiao tao since he knows they are basically dating but Shitous says she would never tell him 8)We learn from a meeting that GTY has with the prince minister that Prince Huan basically deliberately left him and General shen (they are young) behind and took the older generals because 1)they are elders and from the old school and 2)once the ask is proven too difficult he can request GTY and general shen without offending the older lords9)The episode ends with the emperor wishing to have his birth parents conferred as emperor--this is both unheard of and incredibly disruptive to tradition because as the empress will say 'what son has two fathers' (for example, even if you are concubine born your real mother is the legitimate wife....) We have no issues....
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Spoilers AheadThis episode is fantastic and not a great deal happens other than they get married and consummate. One of the most interesting parts is when she leaves her family--both Big Madame and her father seem genuinely happy for her. Then, that night, GTY rushes out and in an unconventional display of husbandly affection, picks up choice meals, perhaps knowing the wife who has been in the bridal chamber is waiting and hungry. While she eats he takes the time, before they go to the bed, to be direct with her. He makes it clear to her that his legitimate son, whom he seeks, will not outrank a legitimate son. But he will focus on finding him. Ming Lan makes it clear that it would scare her if he didn't care and that she will not allow her stepchildren to suffer as she did. He then shows her all his assets (this guy is ridiculously wealthy) and she shows him her, it is so meager compared to him, but its important that she is honest. He tells her that other than her, Shitou, and nanny, he doesn't trust anyone in this house. I think he really cherishes her, and Ming Lan admits she is afraid she may get used to this. He also swears before god to not disappoint her.
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Spoilers Ahead1)Big Madame is baffled. She understands her daughter is stubborn, but her adamant refusal to marry GTY even after she is confined to her room, allowed only the most simple of food, and essentially living with Ming Lan who tries to persuade her--it utterly baffles Big Madame. Her daughter has never been this resistant. 2)When Big Madame learns that the emperor himself has blessed--and thereby decreed--a marriage between GTY and the house of Sheng, she rushes to tell her daughter. Surprisingly, Rulan comes up with a number of suggestions including a 'fake' marriage with the scholar she likes (though her mother is unaware). These suggestions fall flat, and Rulan is faced with the very real reality that she will be forced to marry GTY. Her mother's reassurances that she will have fortune and a title do nothing to comfort her as she sobs.3)Later, Big Madame confides to her personal maid what we, the viewers, know: witnessing the awful spectacle of Concubine Lin and her daughter, including the scandalous plot they constructed, succeed without a hitch infuriated her--how come that woman always gets what she wants, how come Big Madame must suffer? Finally she feels as if her luck has turned. She is happy with this marriage, even if the Gu family situation is difficult (shortsighted...)4)Elsewhere, a deadened Rulan sits (I think a lot of us have experienced this kind of love hurt//I empathized with her) as Ming Lan tries in vain to cheer her up. Ming Lan attempts to appeal to the things she has always known about Rulan: she should be happy, because her mother will be happy, she will have a great life style, GTY could choose to be a scholar some day, and she will surpass Molan in status and fortune. These gains mean nothing to Rulan, who directly tells Ming Lan that she does not understand because she (essentially) has never been in love before. (I think that her love for Yuan Ruo never had time to blossom into something all consuming because it didn't change her). Ming Lan tries to impart her own advice of always looking forward, but again, logic does not work with love.5)Not long after, perhaps the next day, GTY and Eldest brother sheng are walking together, when they overhear a woman sobbing and apologizing to a stranger that they cannot be together in this life. When he hears the Sheng name dropped he runs over, and both men are astounded to see Rulan alone and weeping with Weiming--Eldest Brother loses it and begins yelling at her--GTY follows him.6)At home, Master Sheng is furious. He wants to kill her, and her maid is beaten awfully, so badly in fact that Rulan jumps on her to protect her from the caning and gets caned herself. Old Madame receives updates from her new grandaughter-in-law and learns that Rulan truly went to say her goodbyes. This was just the worst luck. Worse, because of the complicated situatioin with the Gu family and him being so powerful, Old Madame cannot fix this matter.7)Unable to do anything, later the Master and Madame visit Old Madame and ask that Ming Lan be the one to marry GTY since they never officially announced which daughter he was to wed. This sends Old Madame into a furious fit. She smashes cups. She vents her fiery on these two who only ever come to her when they have a problem and only care about Ming Lan when she is useful to cleaning up a mess. She adamantly refuses, even though she does not have a plan to fix it.8)Meanwhile, Yuan Ruo passes his Civil Exam. After telling his mother the good news he asks if she will go the Sheng family and formerly request that Ming Lan be allowed to marry him, and she agrees.9)Ming Lan visits her sister Hu'er, who leaves suddenly. While gone, GTY arrives and all the pieces click together for her. She is clearly angry with him, and he tells her that they will be married soon. She yells at him, and he laughs and says he knows she is angry, but he had no other choice but to cast this big net--he could not ask directly because her grandmother would have rejected him, and once that happened, her father would not try to persuade her. Also, it would have upset Big Madame. So he began to plot. He knew that while a good man the He man was not for her, he found out about the Cao cousin and brought the two of them together, and when he learned that Rulan was in love with another, he was so happy he couldn't sleep. He then tells her that he decided to marry her the same night he saved her from the river and she told him to stop wandering and settle down for his daughter's sake. Ming Lan is left speechless and storms off angry.10)The episode ends with Princess Pingning learning of the marriage between GTY and Ming Lan (hence she does not ask for her hand in marriage because it is too late, nothing can be done)....poor Yuan Ruo.....he missed his boat......
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Spoilers AheadThis episode is interesting because it really stands out as an episode in which Ming Learns how to do things on her own, in this case managing a house hold. Most of my points are analysis of conversations hence it may not be very helpful because I lack the patience to transcribe the script.1) Ming Lan is made steward of the house (an extremely unconventional thing when there are two adult mothers in the house) in response to both Big Madame and Concubine Lin unable to do it (Concubine Lin was shown incapable in the past and Big Madame has made illegal loans). Although the task is difficult, it will give Ming Lan an opportunity to learn how to manage a house hold within the protection of a family and she is a neutral choice.2)While setting up, gifts are delivered from the other pavilions, a standard form of etiquette, and Mo'er chooses to send a maternal painting. As this is the second time I am watching this, the initial meaning flew past me because it is a small moment, but Ming Lan insists that the painting be hung up beside the one her mother gifted her so she 'never forgets'. I am presuming that Mo'er's gift is meant to be a challenge/insult because not only does Ming Lan not have a living mother but the Lin pavilion is responsible for her death. I could be reading to much into it.3)While waiting to greet grandmother, Ming Lan's claws come out more, and she chooses to respond to the direct insults of Mo'er in a manner that leaves Mo'er unable to respond. Later, she successfully puts the 'fire' out by pandering to Mo'er in a way that makes her believe that Ming Lan is treating her genuinely--in a way she is because her words ring with honesty and by being direct she does not insult Mo'er's intelligence, however Mo'er does not seem to realize that Ming Lan has pacified her anger/jealousy. It is an interesting scene.4)Following point 3 (above) Mo'er discusses the promotion of Ming Lan with her mother. Mo'er pacifies her mother's anger by explaining that this is merely a response to the incidents involving her and Big Madame and is temporary. She also reports that she is confident that Ming Lan has moved past the incident of her birth mother.5)The battle to regain the affections of Master Sheng begins for Concubine Lin. Watching these two together, with him appearing untouched by her tearful words, it is clearly the silent treatment, however Concubine Lin clearly uses the same tactics to attempt to melt his heart. For these two, it is a game of whoever can hold out longer, and in the case of Master Sheng, he will always lose because he never addresses the issue head on--silent treatment is an evasive maneuver for those who are more passive. Compare her tactics to Big Madame, and the truth is in the pudding, you earn more with honey than you do vinegar. Concubine Lin is able to get what she wants in the span of brewing tea: she is able to have some servants sent to Ming Lan to help her out AND she makes it look like it is Second Brother's idea. 6)Ming Lan will graciously receive these servants first from Concubine Lin, er, I mean brother Feng, and Big Madame. These are spies of course. But in accepting them, she will be able to figure out on her own how to get rid of unwanted servants/spies in the house in a way that doesn't offend others. It's a delicate matter.7)Ciui, the servant sent with Ming Lan by Big Madame, establishes hard line rules in the beginning and is both firm and fair as she communicates how to behave--she also treats everyone equally. She lays out expectations. Currently Concubine Lin is unaware of how involved--and smart--Ming Lan is in organizing the current tactics she believes it is Old Madame, which is great for Ming Lan. one of the best tactics is being underestimated by your enemy, right? 8)Later, Hua'er stops in for a visit and Ming Lan meets Brother He, a doctor and provincial cousin VERY distantly connected through the clan. He is both nice and attentive, and the two seem to get along well after some initial awkwardness (it is also unusual for people to leave an unmarried daughter alone with a man but they only step into the next room).....this is a good example of small talk and developing a connection after overcoming awkwardness9)What sparks dialogue between the two is the topic of his clinic, and Ming Lan realizes he is a very good doctor because he can tell just by looking at her that she drinks cold wine at night. Could he be a prospective marriage partner.....
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This episode walks us through the funeral of Concubine Wei, the decision for Ming Lan to be raised by Old Madame (grandmother) and the move to the capital. We also witness that at the end of the day Master Sheng cares the most about his reputation but nothing can stop his love for Concubine Lin.The Events:1)Auntie Wei (Concubine Wei’s sister) has an audience with Master Sheng and Big Madame. She begs them to allow her to care for Ming Lan at her family home, however both Master Sheng and the Big Madame insist that she will be well taken care of by Big Madame personally. Auntie Wei tells them that as long as Ming Lan is cared for, she is content.2)Old Madame meets privately with Master Sheng and criticizes him for his behavior. She tells him in no uncertain terms that this entire situation is his fault because he chose to spoil and favor his concubine, giving her power and respect that exceeded the legitimate wife. He has caused his Legitimate wife to become a laughing stock then lays this mess at her feet to clean up. She reminds him that her only son and his elder brother were killed because the favor his father gave to a concubine. Master Sheng repeatedly bows his head and insists he is at fault. Old Madame Sheng insists that she will raise Ming Lan, and while Master Sheng protests this, she will not compromise so he agrees. In addition, she reminds him that as an official matters like this, if they occur in the city, could ruin his career so be careful.3)Master Sheng visits Big Madame and she continues to enact her plan to reel in her anger. Instead of focusing on Concubine Lin she instead focuses on the victim—Concubine Wei, and shows nothing but compassioin for her. This pleases Master Sheng who then uses this as an opportunity (because his wife is not yelling like she normally does) to pander her with sweet words and inform her that he will be giving her complete authority over the house again since Concubine Lin lacks back bone and is unable to be harsh with others o_O4)A very dignified funeral is carried out for Concubine Wei, and while it is not excessive it is meant to be observed by all—the message is to convey that the Sheng family is incredibly devastated by the loss of this concubine who died so tragically.5)Master Sheng gives Concubine Lin the cold shoulder and refuses to see her, remaining with Big Magame exclusively. She goes to her room, throws a tantrum, breaks things, and for the first time we see that for her, this is huge cause for panic as her fears become obvious (this is not an act) she sobs to her daughter that they cannot lose the favor of her father because if they do, no one will be there to protect or defend them (they will be alone) and that is a very real fear for them.6)Prior to boarding the boat to the capital, Ming Lan carries out her mother’s last wish and delivers the knee warmer to Gu Ting Ye. She thanks him, and makes it clear she owes him forever for this, and he is amused by how solemn she is but does a good job of hiding this amusement. They part ways.7)On board the boat, Ming Lan finally breaks down in tears when she is all alone. Her grandmother finds her and embraces and tells her she will never have to worry as long as she is alive and fiercely whispers through her own tears that Ming Lan has someone who loves her.8)Down stairs, Concubine Lin uses a carefully staged show of fear and remorse to regain Master Sheng’s attention. She succeeds in inciting Big Madame to rage while at the same time appearing as if she is the victim, causing Master Sheng to pity her and carry her away. In her room he essentially tells her he loves her and he will protect her.9)Gu Ting Ye arrives in the capital and is met by his stepmother who tells him sadly that his father is angry at him, so Gu Ting Ye replies that he won’t go home then and she asks where he will stay but he implores her not to worry….ANALYSIS-Regarding Auntie Wei: this whole scene is important because it shows that Auntie Wei is fighting for her sister and niece by pressuring the family to promise she will be taken care of—if they break this promise she can really go after them. She also implies that if you take care of my niece, I will forget this happened. Of course this shows us that Big Madame is raising Ming Lan out of obligation, nothing else.-Old Madame has the right to lecture her son, and she knows he will be obedient, but she deliberately chooses to not overstep her bounds by refusing to clean this mess up—I am not in charge here, you and your Legitimate wife are. She is giving him a dressing down because she wants him to understand that he could have prevented this from happening, to let him know it will happen again if he does not be cautious, and more importantly it could cost you and your family everything. Unfortunately, her son is still a man in love and he tries to get Ming Lan out of being raised by her because he wants her to raise Molan (Concubine Lin’s daughter) because he favors her and believes it will protect them. This is another example of Ming Lan is not someone who is a priority even though she is the victim and her mother is dead—murdered. -Concubine Lin’s motives are completely valid—she does not have a powerful family like the legitimate wife. She is a concubine and therefore her safety and status rely on the whim of Master Sheng. Worse, she does not have the favor of Old Madame but she is lucky that Old Madame chooses not to interfere. Concubine Lin’s problem (I think) is that she is overly ambitious and makes risky choices that hurt others all in the name of protecting herself—with stakes like that you can justify any action. Also, this is Molan’s mother and so Molan’s fears are the same as her mother’s.-Gu Ting Ye helped Ming Lan because he felt pity for her. To him it is just a favor but it meant a lot to her. He finds her solemnity entertaining because she cares so much for one kind act. We also know for certain that he and his father do not get along.-I believe that her grandmother feels so much empathy for Ming Lan because she knows what it is like to have been schemed against by another family member (a concubine) because that is how her son was killed. She too was pushed aside, and the evil doer was not punished.Ending Note: In one scene Old Madame says something that resonates with me after Madame Wei’s funeral ‘Hot water cannot be made cool by one tub of cold water’ i.e this problem is so big that your acts of piety are not enough, you need to be careful.
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SPOILERS AHEAD!This episode doesn't cover a lot of things, it really focuses on the aftermath of GTY facing the tragedy of his father's death, and more importantly, him confronting the sad reality that the woman he has come to love and fathered children with, is not who he thinks. His trust and love for Miniang is so great that Momo (nanny) had to gather actual evidence that Miniang was selling off bussinesses and building a nest of his assets. He witnesses her doing this. And so he sets forth a test: he tells her that he has been disinherited and is poor. And it is very sad because his heart just breaks, piece by piece, as she sells more things (she is unaware of his salt fortune) and then he learns her brother is alive. He confronts her about it, and with the evidence in his hand, she admits to selling things out of fear, but not about her brother. He gives her a chance, and says he will forgive her completely, if she tells him the hole truth. She doesn't, and so he essentially breaks up with her. In a sad twist, Miniang runs off in the night with their son(!)
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Spoilers ahead1)The old madame is notified that a quarrel has broken out between Sixth Miss and Master because of Mo'er wanting her mother's memorial tablet brought in. Ming Lan, meanwhile then tells Mo'er that they could have lived harmoniously had she not tried to do this. She says Mo'er has brought whatever happens on herself. Ming Lan confronts her father--you can't even visit my mother's memorial tablet. So she reminds him: Concubine Lin indulged her daughter to have an affair, have you forgotten. Big Madame and Rulan are silent (because they know that only Ming Lan has the guts to do this, and the power). Gu Ting Ye pops in (HE IS ALWAYS THERE WHEN SHE NEEDS HIM!!). He clearly supports Ming Lan and says Concubine Lin should not even appear in the family genealogy..2)Gu Ting Ye is clear: for the sake of the Sheng family rep Ming Lan has endured everything. However their second son is about to take the imperial exam. Witnessing him defend her, Old Madame decides to go back3)Afterwards, Gu Ting Ye tries to coax her with sweets but it doesn't work. He finally says that he has never seen her fierce like this and tells her that he loves that about her. He explains, you are calm because you don't care about most matters but there are these instances (like where her mother is concerned) that she gets fiercely fired up...4)For the first time, Ming Lan tells someone about how her mother would not let her call her mother. He tells her that her mother's memorial tablet will immediately be moved into their family hall, because she is his precious mother in law (AWWWWWWWWWWWWWW)(Jealous of how perfect these two are).5)Mo'er is unaware of the problem she has. Her husband is angry. She focuses on criticizing the Gu family, until finally he tells her to shut up. He directly asks her if this was all a scheme (now viewers, if she admitted the truth, she may have had a chance.) but she is adamant it was not arranged, and he clearly does not believe her. He seems placated, but she doesn't seem to see the future: if he realizes she made a fool of him, she is in some deep trouble6)A concubine is finally taken in because they have no choice. The Evil MIL is hoping that this will incite the happy couple to fight. Elsewhere, the husband of Mo'er questions her servants. He wants to know why she did not bring any lifelong servants as part of her dowry. He promises to dote on her if she tells him (sexually?) He promises this servant girl wealth and stability. the servant girl admits they were beaten to death (her lifelong servants) for colluding with Concubine Lin so that they could meet him in secret, and then spread the word so that he would be forced to marry her..7)The Marquis spends the night with the new concubine as a courtesy but he does not sleep with her at all. He is pretty angry that Ming Lan is not appearing jealous, I think. Ming Lan explains to her personal servant that she basically is realistic and knows that the marquis may fall for someone else in the future (realistically this is the norm). Meanwhile it seems like Shitou (the personal servant to Gu) and Xiaotao are falling in love.
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1)We open to the emperor lecturing Gu Ting Ye for his brazen actions. He has put the emperor in an awkward position in publicly begging to help his brothers who have been arrested for treason. The emperor states that if he rejects this claim then they appear disunited but if he gives in then it makes him look weak. Gu counters that he asked him in public because if they did it secretly it would make the emperor look biased. Hence, he helped him to save face by appearing to be 'the bad guy' for asking. The emperor lets it go and lets him off with a warning (it is like watching a father yell at his kid, cute)................................................................................................................................................................................................................................2)Imperial consort makes a daring comment by suggesting that Gu Ting Ye is united with Prince Huan--not him. This provokes the emperor's anger, but still, maybe a seed has been planted..............................................................................................3)Third Brother Gu is released (he is grateful to second brother), the one from the fifth house is released but the one from the fourth house has been exiled (his crime was bigger).................................................................................................................4)Yuan Ruo updates his wife on the latest ruckus of Gu Ting Ye, and he concludes that the Empress Dowager now has another weakness of the emperor. Oddly, Yuan Ruo then lectures his wife for suggesting that Gu Ting Ye and his wife are working together and says this involves ONLY Gu Ting Ye (now that isn't fair to his wife).................................................5)Ming Lan lectures her husband for his actions and promises to protect her, and goes so far as to say that only Ming Lan can control him, no one else not even the emperor. The fourth house bids a tearful farewell to their son (this is a lifelong grudge that will now be born). Meanwhile, the conferred titles are delivered to them (one for his mother for birthing him, one for Ming Lan for marrying him). .....................................................................................................................................6)The son of evil MIL is clearly unsupported of his mother's actions, but rather than doing anything about it he avoids her (she is afterall his mother)..........................................................................................................................................................................7)Gu Ting Ye works really hard to get Ming Lan to call him 'Darling Second' and it is an adordable scene!!!!!Elsewhere, the Evil MIL works together with Bai family to get a hold of Miniang, worse, she tries to have her enter the harem; Ming Lan tries to have the son given to her but Minaiang refuses. Impatient with the little comments of Evil MIL Gu dismisses her. Gu visits Minaing in order to get info and to convince her to give him his son back.....the episode ends with her stating she would do this if he lets her enter his house as a concubine.....
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Spoilers Ahead1)Our episode begins with Momo Kong providing the Sheng sisters lessons in flower arrangement. As viewers, we see Mo'er really is elegant and graceful as she arranges her flowers. However she monopolizes the teacher's attention, making it impossible for Rulan to ask questions . Rulan also, in contrast, appears to be confused with the entire process while Ming Lan quietly listens to Momo's answers. Momo Kong leaves the room for water2)Alone, Rulan accuses of Mo'er of monopolizing Momo's attention. She also accuses her of being an upstart, and that these lessons are essentially useless to her, for she will never have cause to use them (i.e. she will not marry into a noble house). Mo'er becomes defensive, but Rulan continues to push back, until finally Mo'er breaks down into her characteristic crying act, a reaction that leaves Rulan momentarily stunned, then she accuses her of faking and acting as if the world is over for no reason. Ming Lan tries to encourage Mo'er to stop with a few words, but Rulan antagonizes her more, leading to the girls brawling3)The girls are all punished to copy a book 50x. The Big Madame, Master, and Concubine Lin are invited to learn what happened by Momo (Concubine Lin was invited because she raised Mo'er personally). She wants them to understand that the girls need to learn that a weak link can cause a collapse of the family. Momo has planned this well, she prepared kneeling mats for the girls in advance (so no one can accuse her of being thoughtless) and explains that the sisters need to understand what they did wrong and she asks them each if they understand, and when they nod their heads, she tells them she does not believe them. but will let them explain4) She begins with Mo'er: your Fifth sister accused you of stealing the thunder of the younger sisters and hogging my lesson time, do you acknowledge this? Mo'er says all is her fault, and that she only wanted to learn more to honor the family (tearfully she delivers this) and says she never thought it would incur the displeasure of her sisters (i.e. I am the victim). Momo Kong acknowledges that she is smart, sharp, and tries the hardest but warns her not to suppose everyone else is a fool because of those msarts--she tells her that she should not have bemoaned her existence as a concubine born when her father clearly favors her--she points out that she has bad intention because she wanted to learn and honor the family, but assumes that only she can gain honor for the family instead of her sisters.; it appears like fifht sister started this but this is really linked to and escalated by you5)Next is Rulan (Fifth Miss) Momo points out how mighty she is for not only angering Mo'er but refusing to filter her words and deliberately trying to provoke and hurt her. She implores her to change her temper or else disaster will follow. She ays she should be punished more severely. Rulan takes ownership for her mistake and apologizes.6)Next is Ming Lan: Momo tells her that she must think she did nothing wrong. She teaches her that a family is fated to share the same fate based on the actions of the individuals: glory and shame effects everyone. She erred simply by association (also, I think the implicit message is that she could have tried more to stop them from bickering).7)Although Master Sheng believes Ming Lan should not be punished, Momo reminds him that favoritism will do greater harm to sister hood and breed resentment. The girls will be hit equally. Concubine Lin intervenes and says that although she should not speak, Mo'er should take Ming Lan's punishment as well because she is weak..8)Concubine Lin is lectured: you miss the point, Momo says, that I am promoting harmony. Momo gives her a chance to back out, but Concubine Lin persists and begs for punishment for not treating Mo'er well. Momo tells her she needs to study the rules: she says she did not teach Mo'er well so she should be punished, but if she punishes her, it means the Master and Old Madame and Big Madame should be punished. Second, she knowingly broke rules by speaking out of turn but still did it. In doing so it humiliates the Sheng family. She continues to claim she is ignorant but by acting this way she shows she believes she is above the rules and can do what she wants. This is what triggers Master Sheng to yell at Concubine Lin (recall, he values reputation most). The girls are then hit ten times each (not lightly)9)On her way back, Ming Lan is stopped by her father who inquires about the wound. Then he is called off to attend to Big Madame. Ming Lan tells her servant she is not upset because she does not rely on him--that time has passed. Big Madame wants to cane Concubine Lin. Master Sheng yells at Big Madame in front of Concubine Lin and accuses her of not caring about reputation she is venting a grudge (I bet Momo would lecture him here, because he is right, but by doing this it causes the authority of Big Madame to lessen, and contributes to the problem of disharmony in the house because of his favoritism of Consort Lin. Also, Big Madame is wrong to do this knowing that the master favors her, and she does something that will obviously provoke him to defend Concubine Lin i.e. she is short sighted10)Ming Lan tells her grandmother that she learned so much from Momo Kong this night alone and is grateful. Mo'er is angry and believes her father hates her while Concubine Lin reassures her this is not so. Furthermore, she is angry at herself for forgetting that she must not 'show of her talents' (I think she is missing the point here). Master Sheng smothers the two with attention11)Big Madame is angry at Concubine Lin, in her rooms she blames Concubine Lin for her problems because of the games she plays (viewers, you might think that Big Madame is wrong because she allows herself to be manipulated again and again because she cannot control her anger). Big Madame also expresses frustration that her husband immediately went to Concubine Lin12)While meeting with her Aunt, we learn Ming Lan's plan: they must be carefully and lure the snake out before striking i.e. set something up
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