Episode Summary
Qiao Manman, anxious about Fu Chengjin's unresolved leg ailment, seeks help from Aliya, a renowned physician, at Wanshi Fang. Aliya diagnoses no blockages but suggests using lotus seed hearts as a medicinal catalyst. Qiao Manman dedicates herself to finding fresh lotus seeds. Meanwhile, Fu Yunnuo, increasingly fond of Qiao Manman, helps her gather lotus pods and shows her affection, much to the Noble Consort's displeasure. In a subplot, Ji Mo nervously invites Aliya to a school event, and she delightedly accepts.
Spoiler Alert
Episode 10 Recap & Spoilers: A Glimmer of Hope and Budding Romances
In the Shanshi Fang (kitchen), a rare moment of peace finds Jiu Feng roasting sweet potatoes for Chun Tao. After days of hustle, this quiet interlude is a welcome respite, and they muse on how their masters' deepening bond seems to be bringing good fortune to everyone around them.
Meanwhile, Qiao Manman is consumed with anxiety. What if she can't cure Fu Chengjin's legs? Chun Tao, ever practical, suggests seeking a second opinion from Aliya, renowned as a miraculous doctor in their homeland. Qiao Manman readily agrees, admitting her own half-baked medical knowledge simply won't cut it. Her first step is to visit Wanshi Fang to get her Uncle's blessing for this plan, after which she'll try to convince Fu Chengjin.
Fu Chengjin, witnessing Qiao Manman’s constant worry over his condition, doesn't object when she proposes consulting this famed physician. Over at Wanshi Fang, Qiao Manman's Uncle, Ji Mo, and Aliya herself are in a flurry of activity, nervously cleaning and preparing for the arrival of a "VIP guest." As the appointed time draws near, the Uncle and Ji Mo are visibly on edge, their legs practically trembling with anticipation.
As dusk settles and the night air grows hazy, Qiao Manman brings Fu Chengjin to Wanshi Fang for his consultation. When her Uncle opens the door, he pointedly addresses Qiao Manman as "Princess," a clear indication that this meeting has been carefully orchestrated. Aliya conducts a thorough examination of Fu Chengjin. She discovers that his meridians are clear and unobstructed, yet he remains unable to walk. Aliya’s advice is for Qiao Manman to procure a good quantity of lotus seed hearts, specifically the embryo within, to be used as a medicinal catalyst. While Aliya may have intended the lotus seeds simply to help clear the mind and promote calmness, Qiao Manman clutches at this suggestion as if it’s her last hope. She throws herself into the task, tirelessly searching for fresh autumn lotus seeds from dawn till dusk, never once slacking.
Fu Yunnuo, curious about Qiao Manman's recent whereabouts, learns she's been busy gathering lotus pods. He instructs his men to help locate some and then extends an invitation to Qiao Manman to visit a vast lotus pond he has discovered. The scenery is breathtaking, with vibrant green lotus leaves adorned with glistening dewdrops. While Qiao Manman marvels at nature's beauty, she eagerly harvests the fresh lotus pods. Fu Yunnuo, clearly smitten with his companion and the intoxicating fragrance of the lotus blossoms surrounding them, wishes the moment could last forever. When a sudden rain shower begins, he quickly uses his own outer robe to shield Qiao Manman, his concern for her palpable.
News of Fu Yunnuo personally shielding Qiao Manman with his own garment reaches the Noble Consort (Guifei), who is far from pleased. She views Qiao Manman's growing closeness with her brother-in-law as a serious overstep of boundaries. However, with the Emperor soon to review the progress of Qiao Manman's treatment for Fu Chengjin, the Noble Consort decides to bite her tongue and tolerate the situation – for now.
Elsewhere, Ji Mo's private school is hosting an event. Mustering all his courage, he invites Aliya to accompany him. Though Aliya feigns annoyance with her verbal agreement, she is secretly over the moon. She’s always considered Ji Mo a bit of a bookworm, but this gesture makes her think he’s finally showing some initiative.
