The Story of Ming Lan

Episode 1: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 1

In this episode we are introduced to the Sheng family. Their personalities emerge and are showcased through the major event of an Engagement Ceremony. We see that the family is not in harmony: Mistress Wei has no power and is denied basic necessities by the favored Mistress Lin who is smart and adept at bringing out the worse qualities in other people while appearing weak and helpless; the Big Madame is direct and a fired up person who is unable to fulfill her duty as the head of the inner court because her feelings and personal bias get in the way--she is easily manipulated into anger. Master Sheng only wants harmony and manages his legitimate wife by whispering promises and complimenting her but we learn he favors another over her, giving her powers she should not have, which is humiliating. In the midst of this a wedding occurs, and we meet an eight year old Ming'er who is intelligent and fair, and unable to really understand the reality in which she lives.

Episode 2: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 2

Sheng Chang Bai and Zhong Huai are ambushed while on a boat cruise. Sheng Hong visits Ming Lan's mother, where Ming Lan reveals they are being treated unfairly. Their servant Xiao Die is framed and forced to leave. The search for Zhong Huai intensifies when his true identity is revealed. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 3: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 3

It becomes clear Zhong Huai/Gu Ting Ye was ambushed to prevent him from rightfully inheriting his maternal grandfather's business and provides evidence as such. Ming Lan's mother suddenly goes into labor and is in dire straits. Ming Lan is aided by Gu Ting Ye to find help for her mother. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 4: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 4

Knowing the situation at the magistrate's house, Ming Lan's aunt tries to take her away, but her father refuses. Grandmother Sheng insists on raising Ming Lan. Sheng Hong decides to transfer management of the house from Madam Lin to Lady Sheng, his official wife, due to the death of Ming Lan's mother. They all travel by boat, heading to the capital. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 5: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 5

The Emperor's son has passed away and his ministers are urging him to name a new heir. The Sheng children grow up and study with Yuan children. Many years have passed and the grown children are being taught by Scholar Zhuang. Mo Lan has affections for Yuan Ruo, while Yuan Ruo has affections for Ming Lan. Ting Ye returns from his studies at White Deer Academy. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 6: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 6

Yuan Ruo notices that the items he gifted Ming Lan were re-gifted to her older sisters, Mo Lan and Ru Lan. Through her maid, Ming Lan tries to explain her actions to Yuan Ruo, but he is hurt and upset nonetheless. Ting Ye is being taken advantage of by his relatives, but is unable to rectify the situation, resulting in his bad reputation. Marchioness Wu visits with her youngest son, Liang Hang, but things go awry and Ru Lan and Ming Lan are punished. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 7: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 7

Ting Ye prepares for the arrival of his nanny, but his father forbids it and discovers Ting Ye has a mistress. Ting Ye's punishment is postponed until after the Imperial Exams. Ru Lan and Ming Lan endure their punishment for 3 days, missing out on Scholar Zhuang's lessons. At the advice of Grandmother Sheng, a palace madam is brought in to teach Ru Lan and Ming Lan better manners. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 8: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 8

Ting Yu's servant follows Ting Ye to find out where his mistress lives, but Ting Ye figures it out. Ting Ye's nanny arrives and he learns about the history of his mom and the Gu clan. Qi Heng's mother suspects he has affections for one of the Sheng's sisters. Ming Lan and Ru Lan meet their new palace madam, while Madam Lin tries to persuade Sheng Hong to allow Mo Lan to also learn from the new palace madam. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 9: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 9

Out of jealously, Madam Lin persuades Sheng Hong to include Mo Lan in Nanny Kong's classes. Though Mo Lan is included, Nanny Kong is not swayed by her flattering remarks and believes Ming Lan to be the best student of the three. Ting Ye's nanny meets his concubine and children, while Ming Lan's aunt drops in for a surprise visit, bringing concerning news. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 10: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 10

Mo Lan tries to monopolize Nanny Kong's teaching time so the other sisters don't benefit. Angry, Ru Lan starts an argument with her when Nanny Kong steps out. All three sisters are punished by Nanny Kong in the presence of their dad and mothers. Nanny Kong is shrewd and points out the truth, calling out Mo Lan and Madam Lin's scheming, as well as Ru Lan's temper. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 11: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 11

Each of the three sisters and their families react differently to Nanny Kong's punishment. As Nanny Kong bids farewell, the sisters resume their studies with Scholar Zhuang. An interesting topic is presented for discussion in class and Ming Lan tries hard to not give an answer, but ends up giving the best answer anyways. The male students of the class all prepare for the Imperial Exam. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 12: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 12

The families escort their sons to take the three day Imperial Examination. On a cold night, Ming Lan wonders if Qi Heng is using the leg warmers she gave him, while Qi Heng is thinking of Ming Lan. The results of the examination are posted and while some rejoice to be on the roster, others are upset they were not. Mysteriously, the results for Ting Ye have underlying reasons. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 13: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 13

Ting Ye suspects his older brother for getting him into trouble with the Emperor and hence removed from the top tier list of the Imperial Exam. He realizes he can no longer rely on the support of his father, so decides to leave and self-support. However, his mistress disagrees and has other plans. Sheng Hong is mysteriously detained by the Emperor and his wives take actions out of fear. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 14: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 14

Big Madam catches Madam Lin in the midst of selling her shops and lands to a landlord, thinking that she was having an affair instead. Big Madam uses this opportunity to punish Madam Lin, but Sheng Hong finally returns and reveals why he was detained. Many side dealings are exposed and Sheng Hong is angry at both wives and at his third son whose loose mouth got Sheng Hong in trouble in the first place. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 15: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 15

Because of the side deals Big Madam and Madam Lin were doing behind Sheng Hong's back, Grandmother Sheng was able to persuade Sheng Hong to have Ming Lan act as the steward for the house due to her immaculate bookkeeping. Big Madam and Madam Lin assign their own servants to help Ming Lan, though she does not need them. A friend of Grandmother Sheng visits to help Hua Lan get pregnant again and introduce her grandson, He Hong Wen to Ming Lan. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 16: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 16

The Sheng family attends a polo match held by Countess Yong Chang. Ming Lan meets her dear friend Yan Ran who realizes one of the Polo prizes is her mom's golden hairpin. Yan Ran fights in the Polo match against her younger brother and sister, who also wants the hairpin. Ming Lan plays on behalf of Yan Ran and surprisingly, others join in the match, catching the attention of all those attending. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 17: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 17

Qi Heng approaches Ming Lan to not only reveal his affections for her, but to also get her to reveal her affections for him. However, Ming Lan understands the gap in their status and asks Qi Heng to understand why they can't be together. Madam Lin and Mo Lan cause trouble for Ming Lan and she is punished by her father as a result. They discuss marriage prospects, while Ting Ye tries to arrange a marriage with Yu Yan Ran. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 18: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 18

Yan Ran has concerns with Ting Ye, approaching Ming Lan for guidance. Ting Ye has a heart to hear with Scholar Yu and is slowly able to convince him that he is good marriage material for his grand daughter Yan Ran. Just as things are progressing smoothly, his mistress, Man Niang causes a ruckus at the Yu family house. Ming Lan is able to help with the situation, but causes friction with Ting Ye in doing so. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 19: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 19

Man Niang again meddles in Ting Ye's betrothal plans, but this time it leads to dire circumstances for Ting Ye. He suffers great loss and discovers the true mastermind for his current situation. He is guilt-ridden and seeks solace with Chang Bai who reminds him of his children. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 20: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 20

Nanny Chang discovers the truth about Man Niang and pleads with Ting Ye to investigate. Ting Ye realizes he's been taken advantage of all these years and confronts Man Niang. Desperate, Man Niang flees with her brother and his child. Ting Ye searches desperately for them. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 21: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 21

Tian Ye leaves the capital in search of Man Niang and his son. He encounters the Imperial Army being attacked and helps them out. Qi Heng pleads with his mother and father to approve his betrothal to Ming Lan. Despite the large difference in their status, his mother agrees to meet her at Chang Bai's wedding. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 22: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 22

On the day of Chang Bai's wedding, Princess Ping Ning meets all the Sheng sisters and gives them a big surprise. Grandmother Sheng decides to take Ming Lan back to Youyang for a wedding, traveling by boat. They encounter Qi Heng who reinforces his affections for Ming Lan. The traveling boats are suddenly attacked by water bandits in the middle of the night. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 23: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 23

The bandits attack the Sheng boat and Ming Lan struggles to survive. Luckily, Ting Ye is in the area searching for his son and is able to rescue Ming Lan and the Sheng household. Ming Lan arrives Youyang safely and meets with her grandmother and other friends and family. Ting Ye decides to join the army after Ming Lan had advise him to think about his daughter's future. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 24: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 24

Ting Ye saves the fort from a bandit attack, but does not get credit from the General. Ming Lan's cousin is in a difficult marriage with the Sun family. She helps her find a way out but the Sun family is causing trouble for the Sheng family. Ming Lan takes a chance on an idea she has to help her cousin. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 25: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 25

Ming Lan, Pin Lan, and Hong Wen rush back to the Sheng Manor with a document to help Shu Lan get an amicable separation from the toxic Xiu Cai and his mother. The elder grandmother Sheng soon passes and the bandits disrupt her funeral procession. Ting Ye again comes to the aid of Ming Lan. Given the dangerous situation in Youyang, grandmother Sheng decides it's time for her and Ming Lan to go back to the capital, whilst from afar, Ting Ye keeps watch during their journey. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 26: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 26

Ming Lan hears from Mrs. Wu that the Qi household has been in turmoil due to Qi Heng's dedication to Ming Lan. Mrs. Wu subtly insinuates that Ming Lan is more than welcome into her household, unlike the Qi's. Ming Lan also persevere's given Qi Heng's steadfastness, but a mysterious death during the Autumn Festival puts everyone in a somber mood. Ming Lan reunites with her aunt and slowly pieces together the cause of her mother's death. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 27: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 27

Ming Lan questions her father about her mother and realizes he has never loved her. Qi Heng tries to meet with Ming Lan at the Gu banquet, but his mother chances upon their interaction facilitated by Bu Wei, who suffers a dire punishment. Ting Ye also sees Ming Lan an reveals he has heard the conversation between her and Qi Heng. Qi Heng later finds out from the his mother the true cause of the mysterious death during the Autumn Festival. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 28: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 28

Qi Heng seeks out Consort Rong for the disappearance of his father. He is forced to make a decision with significant ramifications. Ting Ye provides him with another option that he's reluctant to pursue. Ting Ye visits Ming Lan on behalf of Qi Heng and then heads to the front lines to battle in an impending war. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 29: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 29

Hong Wen visits Ming Lan, bringing her fish from Youyang to help with her sickness. Ming Lan visits with her aunt and encounters Countess Wu who is eager to have her meet her son Liang Han. All three Sheng sisters are invited to a polo match held by Countess Wu, but only Ming Lan is invited to the Flower Assembly she is hosting which angers Mo Lan. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 30: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 30

Ming Lan is clearly favoured by Countess Wu, inciting jealousy and anger in Mo Lan. In the heat of the moment, Mo Lan injures Ming Lan and is punished for her actions. Meanwhile, Hong Wen frequently visits Ming Lan to help heal her injury, bringing other gifts. Sheng Hong has found a scholar for Mo Lan, but Madam Lin is not satisfied that his background is not illustrious enough. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 31: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 31

As Sheng Hong brings scholars home to meet Mo Lan, Ru Lan encounters Wen Yang Jing for the first time. Madam Lin tries to persuade Sheng Hong that Mo Lan should marry someone with higher status than scholars. Mo Lan gets wind of Liang Han going to the monastery, so breaks her confinement to meet him in secret. Big Madam finds out and reports it to Sheng Hong who can't believe it. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 32: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 32

Mo Lan continues her rendezvous with Liang Han and is caught by Sheng Hong. She is punished, but to save the Sheng ladies from being disgraced by her illicit actions, Big Madam tries to arrange a marriage between Mo Lan and Liang Han. Madame Wu will only allow Mo Lan as a concubine if Ming Lan agrees to marrying Liang Han as his first, official wife. Ming Lan disagrees and Grandmother Sheng has to take matters into her own hands. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 33: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 33

Grandmother Sheng convinces Liang house to take Mo Lan as Liang Han's first wife. Though Madam Lin and Mo Lan are triumphant, Sheng Hong realizes his past mistakes and no longer has affection for Mo Lan and punishes Madam Lin severely. The day of reckoning comes to fruition when Ming Lan pays a visit to Madam Lin, who has been sent to a farmhouse outside the city. Grandmother Sheng becomes suspicious. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 34: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 34

Ting Ye is successful in his military battles and is promoted, however, his close friend's father, Zhao Zong Quan is suddenly being targeted for assassination. They head to the capital to meet with the Emperor. Meanwhile, Ming Lan visits her father and Chang Bai who are working day and night at the palace for installation of the crown prince. Turmoil erupts at the Imperial Palace as Princess Ping Ning and other ladies are held captive while others are slain. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 35: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 35

While escaping the palace, Ming Lan runs into a maid with the emperor's decree. Hunted, Ming Lan finds her way out of the city. Ting Ye comes to her rescue and continues to the palace to help the emperor along with Zhao Zong Quan. After quelling the rebellion, Ting Ye exchanges a few words with the emperor. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 36: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 36

Qi Heng still has Ming Lan in his heart, while things are progressing between Ming Lan and Hong Wen. However, an unexpected visitor suddenly derails their betrothal plans. Ting Ye now leads the Jin Imperial Army and returns to Gu house to settle the score. As he goes to fight more military battles, he begins receiving an abundance of marriage proposals from the different houses that were previously indifferent to him. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 37: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 37

Ming Lan and Ru Lan become closer as Ru Lan reveals she has affections for Wen Yan Jing, who she has been meeting secretly. The betrothal between Ming Lan and Hong Wen is on shaky ground as his in-laws force him to do something he does not want to do. Ting Ye comes back after a successful military battle and is now ready to marry. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 38: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 38

Gu Ting Ye mentions his interest in the legitimate daughter of Sheng House. Rulan gives up and decides to marry Gu Ting Ye and secretly goes to meet Wen Yan Jing to say goodbye but is discovered by Changbai and Gu Ting Ye. Sheng Hong and Madam Sheng try to convince Old Madam Sheng to allow Minglan to marry Gu Ting Ye but she angrily refuses. Qi Heng passes his imperial exams and asks the Princess of Pingning to propose marriage to Minglan; she agrees. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 39: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 39

Minglan scolds Gu Ting Ye and leaves in a huff. Qi Heng confronts Gu Ting Ye about the marriage who goes to Sheng manor and is refused entry. Gu Ting Ye tells his family about his planned wedding and renovates his manor. Minglan tells her grandmother about Gu Ting Ye about his schemes. Old Madam Sheng tells her if she doesn’t agree, she would not allow the marriage. Gu TingYe requests the empress organise a polo match and Minglan is invited. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 40: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 40

Old Madam Sheng counts Minglan dowry and says goodbye. The marriage ceremony begins with the procession to Sheng manor to fetch the bride. As Gu Ting Ye entertains the guest, Rong’er visits Minglan. Gu Ting Ye fakes being drunk to return to his bed chamber and talk with Minglan before going out personally to buy food for Minglan. Afterwards, they sleep together. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 41: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 41

Ming Lan experiences her first battle with the Gu house madams, but she is able to maneuver deftly. Though upset with Ting Ye for not protecting her, she realizes the trust he places in her and he is amazed by her skills. Ting Ye informs the Gu house elders that he's moving out and into Cheng Manor—given to him by the emperor—despite their protests. Ting Ye and Ming Lan make a visit with the Sheng family, meeting up with Ru Lan, Mo Lan and their spouses. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 42: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 42

Grandmother Sheng is especially happy to see Ming Lan, however, Big Madam's sister, Auntie Kang begins to incite some trouble. Ming Lan is lectured by her father for flouting her new status and being extravagant compared to the rest of the family. Ming Lan and Ting Ye move into their new manor, but the Gu houses have sent along their servants unbeknownst to Ming Lan. She sets the tone when it comes time to assign tasks to the servants. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 43: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 43

The servants from the Gu house are causing trouble for Ming Lan, but she knows that action must be well-planned. Rumours swirl about how unfilial and rash Ming Lan and Ting Ye are and Ming Lan is troubled by them. Ting Ye's daughter Rong'er is getting along well with Ming Lan and is as bold as her father. Though Qi Heng has lost Ming Lan to Ting Ye, he still defends her against the rumours circulating. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 44: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 44

Ming Lan's plans to address the Gu house servants kick into action. Madam Gu is furious but is consoled by the remaining maidservants whose goals are to become Ting Ye's concubines. Ming Lan has other plans to ensure her house is clean and orderly. Able to focus on other household duties, she makes a trip to the farmstead to understand their accounting while Ting Ye focuses on the military camp. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 45: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 45

Ming Lan visits two farmsteads and she is able to outmaneuver the managers in the first farmstead. The managers of the second farmstead give her a harder time because they are tied to the imperial eunuch. Ting Ye comes back from the drill and is able to help Ming Lan and the farmers. Ming Lan prepares for her first visit to meet the emperor and empress. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 46: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 46

Accompanied by General Sheng's sister, the Empress's sister-in-law, Sheng Minglan enters the court to meet the Empress. They are intercepted by the head eunuch of Empress Dowager and cannot refuse to visit her. Empress Dowager wants to place some of her older maidservants in safe places and first tries to place them as "chambermaids" with the Empress who evades the maneuver. Sheng Minglan is her next target, but the latter evades by skillfully making it so, that those maids will be married to promising executives within the army. Times have settled at the imperial court and within the country, yet the Empress Dowager still participates when the Emperor holds court. On their way out - Sheng Minglan and the maids, she meets her husband at the gates. She believes that she brought trouble upon him, but he laughs and sees this matchmaking as an honor. They both discuss the rising inner tensions at the imperial court. While the new Emperor wants to improve and change the system according to what he has learned and seen before he came to his new duty, the Empress Dowager wants to guard the old way. Living in luxury and blissfully ignoring the already established corruption. The animosity towards the Gu clan stems from the friendship between Gu Tingye and Prince Huan. The latter supports change for the better in the Kingdom. The married couple realizes that hard times might be upon them. To find those who participated in the Rebellion against the old Emperor and might yet still be among the nobility an investigation into the initiators is to be held. Instead of the Emperor or his ministers deciding upon whom to best give that task the Empress Dowager, who is still sitting in at the ministers’ court and refuses to let go of her seat now that peace reenters the realm, interrupts and ultimately decides upon Qi Heng. Neither the interruption nor the proposed action plan by Qi Heng is met with enthusiasm. After the end of court Prince Huan and Gu Tingye reinstate that the inner court politics are getting troublesome and that they will have to find an "intellectual" way of getting the Empress Dowager out of the ministers meeting again. Qi Heng arrests, in ropes and publicly, the two brothers of Gu Tingye. The wives of the 4th and 5th supply Big Madam Gu for help. She feigns powerlessness but makes clear, that they should ask Gu Tingye. Back at the manor of Sheng Minglan and Gu Tingye they discuss the arrest, as well as Qi Heng handling the matter. Gu Tingye assures his wife, that he won't take personal revenge but warns her about the coming attack by the others in the Gu Clan. While the 4th and 5th uncles nag Gu Tingye, who refuses to help, indicating the past transgressions of his brothers and missing support for him from the family, their wives try later to influence Sheng Minglan. She evades them with politeness, feigning of not being able to ask her husband to intervene and the pretense of a missing Rongjie. When Minglan joins them, Gu Tingye praises her intelligence. Qi Heng has been married. His wife, apparently from outside the capital, wants to dote on him during his late-night working sessions. He stays cold and distant. Returning to her room, lamenting about the distance to her maid, she hears for the first time that Qi Heng once had feelings for a concubine’s daughter. She orders her maid to investigate. The mother of the 5th son of the Gu family shares some ancestors with the wife of Qi Heng. She visits and tries to give her a belated wedding gift. Qi’s wife refuses to accept because outsiders could mistake this as a bribe. When the Gu family member leaves the maid tells the wife that Sheng Minglan and Qi Heng apparently played polo once together. She also says that the most trusted former aid of Qi Heng was beaten to death – the implication being, that it is Sheng Minglans fault. Maid and wife are sure, that Sheng Minglan is a femme fatale. However, the wife tells her maid to never mention the name again. Source: Pot-Pourri Haru at MyDramaList & Website: DramaMLKY

Episode 47: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 47

The fourth and fifth Gu houses continue to pressure Ming Lan for help with their sons, even trying to threaten her with her past engagement with Hong Wen. He Zhen finds the dolls Qi Heng made for himself and Ming Lan, vowing to win Qi Heng’s heart. Ting Ye helps to take back the Jade Seal from the empress dowager to give to the new emperor. The third Gu son Ting Wei is taken prisoner for colluding with the rebellion against the previous emperor. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 48: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 48

The eldest Gu brother Ting Yu is pressured by the Gu elders to comply with Ting Ye's demands. He begins to reconsider as he plans for his wife and daughter after his death. He surprises Ting Ye and the Gu elders with his own proposal, inciting the anger of Big Madam Gu. Ting Ye pleads leniency for his brothers to the emperor, shocking the imperial ministers. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 49: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 49

Though the emperor granted Ting Ye's brothers lenient punishments, one was exiled to the upset of the 5th house Gu family. Ting Ye was conferred multiple titles by the emperor including the Marquis of Ningyuan while Ming Lan was bestowed the title of Lady of Yongjia Commandery. Big Madam Gu stirs up trouble by meeting with the Bai family who has found the whereabouts of Man Niang. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 50: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 50

Ting Ye is easily angered by Man Niang but Ming Lan is able to calm and reason with him. They are not able to get Chang'er's location from Man Niang, so Rong'er tries, but this leads to dire circumstances. It becomes clear that Madam Gu is working with the Bai family to take down Ting Ye. They release Man Niang in hopes that she will eventually lead them to Chang'er, but she instead causes more trouble. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 51: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 51

Man Niang slanders Ting Ye in public and—because of the rumours—Qi Heng files a complaint against Ting Ye with the emperor. Ting Ye realizes there are other reasons behind Qi Heng's complaints so confronts him. Ting Ye shows the wound Man Niang gave him in trying to kill him and the emperor banishes her from the city. Having his men follow Man Niang, he discovers something about Chang'er. Ming Lan goes back to Sheng house for a reunion banquet and things become uncomfortable when Mo Lan wants to celebrate her mother's death. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 52: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 52

The truth about Ming Lan's mother's death comes to light but it's clear Sheng Hong still has feelings for Madam Lin. Ting Ye comes in time to defend Ming Lan, much to Grandmother Sheng's delight. Liang Han begins to suspect Mo Lan's innocence regarding their chance encounters prior to their marriage. Grandaunt Gu installs a concubine for Ting Ye who is upset that Ming Lan agreed so easily. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 53: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 53

Ting Ye is upset that Ming Lan is not jealous of the newly instated concubine. On their wedding night, he refuses to sleep with the concubine and goes to Ming Lan instead. They plan a large banquet to celebrate the joining of Gu and Cheng manors. Madam Gu has developed strong relations with Auntie Kang and they plot to make things difficult for Ming Lan during the banquet. Ming Lan has a heart-to-heart with Qi Heng's wife and decides to make things very clear to Qi Heng. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 54: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 54

A big ruckus between Madam Zhang and concubine Zou Ping during the banquet causes embarrassment. The empress reaches out to Ming Lan to give her the backstory of General Shen and Madam Zhang in hopes she can help repair their marriage. Both Ming Lan and Ting Ye help General Shen and Madam Zhang improve their relationship and though successful, Ming Lan remains baffled as to why Ting Ye is still cold with her after two months have passed. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 55: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 55

With Chang Bai's urging, Ting Ye mends his relationship with Ming Lan. Madam Zhang is now with child, but as a result, General Sheng has gone back to Concubine Zou Ping. Ting Ye and Ming Lan get into a big argument and Ting Ye sleeps in separate quarters. Ming Lan has found a suitable husband for Dan Ju, but she doesn't want to leave Ming Lan. Things become strained in the imperial court meeting where the empress dowager decides to punish Ting Ye. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 56: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 56

Ting Ye is sent home with caning wounds, garnering him the sympathy and affections of Ming Lan. The battle between the old and new begins at the palace. Determining the birth father of the new emperor establishes how the new emperor will govern (new reforms vs old conventions). The empress, wanting the old conventions to remain intact, is using Qi Heng to set a trap. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 57: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 57

The imperial court morning session is disrupted as the old faction claims the empress dowager was coerced into agreeing with the new emperor that he recognize his birth father as his Royal Father. Although the emperor wants to investigate a corrupt salt trade, the old faction is unwilling as many aristocratic families will be implicated. Slowly, the new emperor's family and ministers are being accused of crimes. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 58: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 58

Auntie Kang and Madam Gu are forcing Ming Lan to visit them during her early pregnancy period. Nanny Chang comes to Ming Lan's defence. Noble Consort Liu is conspiring with the empress dowager to raise doubts about Ting Ye and Ming Lan with the emperor. Auntie Kang uses one of her illegitimate daughters to see Ming Lan knowing that the daughter will be punished if she fails in her mission. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 59: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 59

Ming Lan is put in a tough corner by Auntie Kang. Luckily, Cui Wei brings Grandmother Sheng to Cheng Manor for help. Grandmother Sheng interrogates Zhao Er and discovers the reason Auntie Kang is bent on having her stay in Cheng Manor as Ting Ye's concubine. Ming Lan gives Zhao Er two paths to take while Grandmother Sheng scolds both Big Madam Sheng and Sheng Hong for all the trouble Auntie Kang is causing. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 60: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 60

Lady Zhang's birth is difficult. Concubine Zou Ping goes out of her way to endanger her and her unborn child. Recalling her mother's experience, Ming Lan takes things into her own hands to guarantee a doctor for Lady Zhang. Duke and Duchess of Ying arrive to help their daughter and take her away from General Shen to ensure her safety. General Shen needs to make a difficult decision. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 61: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 61

The empress dowager is making headway in further fracturing the new and the old regimes. However, the empress makes a bold move after deliberations with Ming Lan which helps turn the tide for the new regime. Hard feelings remain given the sacrifice of General Shen's first wife, but Ming Lan helps to dispel discontent by reframing the punishment of Concubine Zou Ping to General Shen and his sister. Grandmother Sheng suddenly falls ill. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 62: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 62

Ming Lan is able to uncover who and what ares making Grandmother Sheng ill. She dares sacrifice all to make sure the culprit is caught even if Big Madam Sheng and Sheng Hong are not so inclined. They heed the advice of the doctor to help her grandmother but her health remains uncertain for she is old. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 63: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 63

Ming Lan lures the culprits into Sheng's house where they're detained for interrogation. The Wang and Kang houses come to a final resolution where Ming Lan provides all the evidence and testimonies. In the confrontation, Madam Wang must choose who is at fault between her two daughters. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 64: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 64

The Wang and Sheng houses discuss the appropriate course of action based on Auntie Kang's misdeeds but the Wang house refuses accountability for their daughter. As it becomes clear Auntie Kang will be condoned for her grave actions, Chang Bai and Ting Ye arrive. Ming Lan is finally able to let her guard down and let Chang Bai handle all the devious manoeuvrings of Wang house. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 65: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 65

The Sheng family is having problems getting documents signed for Auntie Kang to be admitted into the palace prison. To help convince husband Kang Hai Feng to sign the documents, Ming Lan entreats her father. They have a frank conversation about their relationship and Sheng Hong's character and motivations. Chang Bai and Ting Ye return to complete their salt mining investigation while Mo Lan becomes suspicious of Grandmother Sheng's sudden illness. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 66: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 66

Mo Lan visits the Sheng house in an attempt to uncover the truth behind what's been happening. Though her father doesn't reveal anything, she runs into Madam Lin's faithful servant Nanny Xue who tries to get money in exchange for access to Auntie Kang. Mo Lan exchanges information about events in the Sheng house with Auntie Kang's freedom. Auntie Kang ends up with Madam Gu; they conspire to take down Ming Lan at her most vulnerable moment. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 67: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 67

As the fire rages at Cheng house, Ming Lan is in the throes of labour. Against the wishes of his wife and parents, Qi Heng summons his servants to help with the fire. Ting Ye comes in time as Auntie Kang is dead set on revenge. The emperor is furious with Ting Ye as he's ignored the imperial edict to give an update on the salt investigation, choosing to focus on Ming Lan and their newborn son. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 68: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 68

Madam Wang seeks out the empress dowager for the death of her daughter Auntie Kang. They begin conspiring to take down Ting Ye. Noble Consort Liu and Madam Gu become better acquainted while Bai Ting Yu moves into the Gu house. After giving birth, Ming Lan becomes more jealous. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 69: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 69

The death of Auntie Kang remains unresolved as there's no clear evidence as to whether she was trying to murder Ming Lan and her baby or if she was trying to save them from the fire. Ming Lan decides to stay with her grandmother at the Sheng house when Nanny Chang notices something wrong with the medicinal tea. With the backing of the empress dowager, Gu house, Wang house, Bai house, and Man Niang all converge to take Ting Ye down during the morning imperial court session. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 70: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 70

As things are not looking good for Ting Ye, Chang Bai is prevented from releasing information about the misdeeds of Auntie Kang. Many good friends come to Ming Lan's aid during this difficult time, including Qi Heng and his wife. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 71: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 71

While Ting Ye is imprisoned, close friends and family support Ming Lan to celebrate their 1-month-old son. During the chaos, an assassin infiltrates the celebration. Armed with new evidence, Ming Lan stubbornly beats the drum to file a complaint but the emperor won't see her. Exhausted from her efforts, she passes out and is helped by the empress. At Liang House, Mo Lan is dealing with issues of his own. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList; edited by MyDramaList)

Episode 72: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 72

The emperor sends the military to the borders to quell a sudden revolt. His generals plead with him to send Ting Ye to help fight the battle and though the emperor agrees, Ting Ye is relegated to a foot soldier. With news of his elite guards being wiped out, the emperor falls ill. The empress dowager takes advantage, wresting control of the Imperial Jin army, and arresting and killing the noble families loyal to the emperor. Ming Lan and the other noble families fight for their lives. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 73: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 73

When the city is in complete chaos out of nowhere comes a sudden glimmer of hope. The empress dowager's scheming is unveiled. Behind it all is another shocking plot. Finally, there is peace for all the families and the realm. (Source: frankly at MyDramaList)

Episode 74: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 74

Episode 75: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 75

Episode 76: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 76

Episode 77: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 77

Episode 78: The Story of Ming Lan Episode 78