Fan Changyu reopens the family pork shop and displays an unusual talent for business. To save her home, she asks Xie Zheng to marry into the family.

Fan Changyu and Xie Zheng face a crisis, stirring Zheng's emotions. Meanwhile, Qi Shu wistfully recalls playing chess with a mysterious figure.

Xie Zheng and Fan Changyu grow closer through hardship, and finally consummate their marriage. Qi Shu, under the alias An Xu, enters Luyuan Academy.

Changyu is upset about the hairpin and the betrothal letter. Gongsun Yin discovers Princess Qi Shu's identity but allows her to stay and study.

Xie Zheng starts wondering who the Fan family really are. Fan Changyu appears in court over Fan Da's property case, which takes an unexpected turn.

Fan Changyu escapes from prison to find someone and fights alongside Xie Zheng. Gongsun Yin saves Xie Zheng, and Changyu is set free.

Fan Changyu learns from Gongsun Yin that Xie Zheng will eventually leave, which upsets her. She teams up with Yu Qianqian to sell braised meat.

Wei assassins strike again at night. Li Huai'an finds the Fan shrine to the Marquis of Wu'an. Wei Xuan orders He Jingyuan to send troops to Chongzhou.

At court, Wei Yan suppresses Grand Tutor Li to consolidate his power. Fan Changyu reopens her braised meat stall, and business booms.