Festival of Lights · Diwali
Xu Xi proved her identity, returned to the Marquis of Suiping’s Residence on terms that protected her studies and independence, and built ties with the Xu Family through business. As she settled into academy life, she investigated whether Zhao Jingli had been switched at birth, leaving the first madam watching the second branch.
Xu Xi helped expose the child-switching scheme, which brought imperial punishment on the Wei Family and led to the Zhao household's division. She became Zhao Ruxi and Kang Shilin's disciple, while Zhao Yuankun drew Zhao Yuanliang into his plans and Fu Yunlang sought help to preserve his marriage to Zhao Ruyu.
Zhao Ruxi advanced her studies, supported her family, and built an independent household and business plans while becoming involved in court affairs. The volume ended with Fu Yunkai formally seeking to marry her, leaving her family to consider his proposal.
Zhao Ruxi built workshops and businesses, outmaneuvered threats to her family, and partnered with Xiao Lingyan on new ventures and an auction house. The auction ended with her anonymous waterfall painting captivating its powerful guests.
Zhao Ruxi won acclaim for her painting, expanded ventures intended to support women, and advanced through the examinations while navigating court interference and marriage pressure. With great scholars tutoring her, she prepared for the provincial examination as Lady Zhu pressed for a coming-of-age ceremony.
Zhao Ruxi won first place in the provincial examination, secretly became engaged to Xiao Lingyan, and helped him navigate the border crisis and the princes’ struggle. After passing the metropolitan examination in second place, she chose an outside post in Anzhou Province and prepared to leave the capital.
After winning the palace examination, Zhao Ruxi secured a post in Nanyang and challenged corruption while addressing local disputes. She accepted Xiao Lingyan’s proposal, and Xiao Ge decreed their betrothal, leaving Princess Xiangyang furious.
Zhao Ruxi and Xiao Lingyan survived rebellion and married, then built a family while advancing farming, industry, and opportunities for women. The volume ended with Xiao Ge urging Xiao Lingyan to take the throne, while Xiao Lingyan offered to shoulder more state affairs instead.
No recap yet. A volume gets one once it has 100 chapters.