[Cdrama] Youthful Glory Plot Summary & Ending Spoiler Cast 2025 韶华若锦

[Chiness drama] Youthful Glory (also known as Shaohua Ruojin / 韶华若锦) is a 2025 Chinese historical romance drama that masterfully blends palace intrigue, family downfall, and the romantic theme of “marriage before love.” The series is adapted from the popular web novel Xiaodoukou (小豆蔻) and follows Gangxi, a cold yet warm-hearted northern war hero and prince who returns to the capital after eight years to investigate a military fund embezzlement case. During his investigation, Gangxi enters into a political marriage with Mingdan, the intelligent and strong-willed daughter of a prestigious martial family.

Set during the Da Xian dynasty, Gangxi uncovers deep-rooted corruption within the dynasty’s economic and power structures. Through his marriage to Mingdan, he confronts the court’s conspiracies. However, his thorough investigation leads to the wrongful downfall of Mingdan’s family, and she faces internal conflict amid her father’s death, family ruin, and doubts about her loved ones. The drama intricately weaves together palace schemes, family strife, and the protagonists’ growth and revenge. Together, they overcome crises, misunderstandings, and betrayals to purge corruption from the court.

Visually stunning, Youthful Glory features elaborate costumes and sets, with fresh chemistry between Song Weilong (Gangxi) and Bao Shang’en (Mingdan), supported by a strong cast including Dailuwa and Keying. Themes of power, love, betrayal, growth, and justice intersect, making it a masterpiece that breaks the mold of typical historical romance by harmonizing modern sensibilities with traditional aesthetics.

[Cdrama] Youthful Glory

Korean 소화약금, Shao Hua Ruo Jin | Japanese Title: 韶华若锦ショウカジャクキン
Genre: Historical, Romance, Mystery, Political
Episodes: 30 | Runtime: Approx. 45 minutes per episode
Release Date: May 20, 2025 (China), May 31, 2025 (Korea)
Air Time: Daily at 8 PM (China, 2 episodes back-to-back)
Director: Min Guohui | Screenwriter: Zhu Yi
Adaptation: Original by Buzisuka Cai
Production: Xiamen Muhui Factory
Cast: Song Weilong, Bao Shang’en, Dailuwa, Keying, Bai Zhu, Jin Xiaoheng, Wang Jia, Zhen Yilun, Yang Boxiao
Filming: May to August 2024, Fujian Province, Hengdian
Rating: 15+
OTT Platforms: MangoTV, iQIYI, WeTV

[Chiness drama] Youthful Glory Ratings

Douban: 6.2/10 (10 episodes)

MyDramaList: 7.6/10 (6,000+ ratings)

[Cdrama] Youthful Glory Cast

Song Weilong as Jiang Xu : Prince of Bei Ding and commander of the northern armies. He returns to the capital to investigate corruption affecting his army and must navigate court intrigue while protecting those he cares about.
Filmography Best3: Go Ahead (以家人之名, 2020), Find Yourself (下一站是幸福, 2020), A League of Nobleman (君子盟, 2023)

Bao Shang’en as Ming Tan : Daughter of the Marquess of Jing An. Kind-hearted and clever, she tries to escape her arranged marriage and faces challenges in high society while learning to assert herself and protect her family.
Filmography Best3: Generation to Generation (一代洪商, 2022), Love Behind the Melody (乐游原, 2023), Youthful Glory (韶华若锦, 2025)

Dai Luwa as Bai Minmin : Cousin and best friend to Ming Tan, daughter of a Duke. Loyal and supportive, she stands by her friend through thick and thin.
Filmography Best3: Lost You Forever (长相思, 2023), Moonlight Mystique (白月梵星, 2025), Cross Fire (穿越火线, 2020)

[Cdrama] Youthful Glory Plot Summary

The marriage between the families of Guo Gong and Jing An Hou causes a sensation throughout the city. The wife of the Guo Gong family personally visits the Jing An Hou residence to flaunt the engagement. Meanwhile, Ming Tan (Bao Shang’en) is being dressed by her maid in her room. Although she is adorned in luxurious attire, Ming Tan knows that the Guo Gong family is only interested in her father’s military power. She deliberately delays to frustrate the Guo Gong matriarch but puts on a fake smile for the sake of the marriage.

The Guo Gong matriarch presents the betrothal gifts, but Ming Tan is upset to see that they are last year’s outdated items. She wants to refuse the engagement but cannot easily do so when the Guo Gong matriarch personally hands her the marriage contract. Following a plan, Ming Tan’s maid deliberately knocks over a screen, allowing the pair of wild geese (a traditional betrothal gift) to fly away. The nanny, shocked, apologizes to the Guo Gong matriarch and explains that since the Marquis is not home, she cannot break the rules and asks to reschedule the betrothal.

Meanwhile, Jiang Xu (Song Weilong), a handsome and confident young man, is riding his horse in the forest when he is attacked by assassins from the Hai You Sect. Despite being severely wounded from a previous battle, Jiang Xu fights desperately and barely escapes to a monastery on the mountain. At the monastery, the young master of the Guo Gong family, Liang Zixuan, is praying with his cousin and lover, Zhu Er. They have already promised to spend their lives together, and Zhu Er is even pregnant, but the Guo Gong matriarch’s decision to betroth Liang Zixuan to Ming Tan puts their relationship at risk. Zhu Er is anxious about rumors that Ming Tan is difficult and worries that Ming Tan will not accept her after the marriage.

Ming Tan secretly follows Liang Zixuan to the monastery and discovers his relationship with Zhu Er. She tries to take their prayer plaques as evidence to break off the engagement but accidentally falls while trying to reach them. At that moment, Jiang Xu, who is hiding at the monastery, saves her. The two lock eyes and feel awkward, but when the assassins arrive, Ming Tan realizes Jiang Xu has led them there. Fearing that others will find out they were together, Ming Tan reveals her identity and claims she is praying for the Marquis, sending the assassins away.

Ming Tan drops her jade pendant, which Jiang Xu picks up. She tries to hide under a carriage to enter the city but is left behind when her strength fails, and she is caught by the assassins. Jiang Xu hides Ming Tan and fights the assassins with all his might, surviving but exhausted. Ming Tan leaves medicine for him and departs.

Ming Tan prepares gifts for her adoptive father, Zuo Shangshu Wenxun, and adoptive mother, Zhang Yunye, who care deeply for her. She wants to apologize for her previous mistake with the Guo Gong matriarch but is too embarrassed as a junior to go alone, so Zhang Yunye accompanies her. Zhang Yunye apologizes to the Guo Gong matriarch, who, due to her status, treats her with utmost respect. Ming Tan asks her adoptive mother to keep the Guo Gong matriarch occupied while she sneaks into Liang Zixuan’s room to find evidence of his relationship with Zhu Er. She is startled by Liang Zixuan’s voice and hides in a secret room, where she unexpectedly meets Jiang Xu again.

Ming Tan persuades Jiang Xu to let her go, saying her maid will cause a scene if she is gone too long. In the secret room, Ming Tan finds an official seal, while Jiang Xu tries to steal a silver ingot but is caught by Ming Tan. The Guo Gong matriarch, hearing that Ming Tan is missing, orders a search of the courtyard. Jiang Xu, fearing the situation will escalate, knocks Ming Tan unconscious, and she wakes up at home. She immediately orders surveillance on the Guo Gong family, and as expected, their official seals are all stolen by Jiang Xu.

At a banquet, Jiang Xu publicly humiliates Liang Ying’a, who tries to force Ming Tan to play the zither. He brings in the body of a guard, causing chaos at the banquet, and Ming Tan uses the opportunity to test the Guo Gong matriarch’s weaknesses. Ming Tan and Bai Minmin discuss strategies to break off the engagement, but Jiang Xu overhears them.

Liang Zixuan tries to disgrace Ming Tan by pushing her into the water, but Jiang Xu saves her and captures the culprit. Zhang Huiyu falls in love with Bai Minmin at first sight, and Jiang Xu returns Ming Tan’s bracelet as a sign of peace. Ming Tan realizes Jiang Xu is investigating the Liang family and tries to cooperate, but he refuses. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun pressures the Liang family to deal with Zhu Er to protect the engagement.

At a brothel, Ming Tan overhears the Liang family’s conspiracy and decides to break off the engagement. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun advises the Liang family to eliminate Zhu Er. Ming Chu tries to take Zhu Er’s ginseng, causing a conflict, and Jiang Xu tries to help Zhu Er but gets into trouble. At night, assassins attack Zhu Er, and Jiang Xu and Ming Tan join forces to save her, discovering that the assassins were sent by Liang Zixuan.

Zhu Er goes into premature labor, and Jiang Xu takes the baby to protect it. Ming Tan scolds the Yu family and humiliates Ming Chu at a family banquet. Ming Zhengyuan returns and exposes the truth about Ming Tan being pushed into the water, bringing evidence to the Liang family to demand the engagement be broken off and revealing Liang Zixuan’s illegitimate child scandal. The engagement is annulled.

Ming Zhengyuan confronts the Liang family with Zhu Er, who tearfully explains that she almost died trying to become a concubine. Jiang Xu engages in a fierce battle of wits with the emperor over marriage, outwardly accepting the engagement but secretly treasuring Ming Tan’s jade pendant.

Ming Tan prays for her ideal type at the monastery and is caught by the emperor, who realizes her criteria match Jiang Xu. When Shen Yu proposes to her, Jiang Xu becomes jealous and makes Ming Tan clean the stables. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun asks the empress dowager for permission to marry, but Shen Yu interferes. At a tavern, Ming Tan argues with Shen Yu and faints after receiving a marriage token. When she wakes up, she finds out her father has already agreed to her marriage with Jiang Xu.

Ming Tan secretly visits the military camp and mistakes Jiang Xu for an old soldier, shocked when she sees his true appearance. Jiang Xu honestly admits he proposed because he heard her ideal type at the monastery, and the two accept their marriage after facing reality. Fushu tells Ming Tan that she secretly helped with military funds, and Ming Zhengyuan explains that Jiang Xu is righteous and favored by the emperor.

At court, the empress dowager’s faction and the emperor’s faction secretly battle over the marriage. At the tavern, Shen Yu mocks Ming Tan but is shocked to hear about Jiang Xu’s “misdeeds,” not realizing she is mocking the future queen.

Ming Chu is jealous that Ming Tan becomes queen, and Yu Yinyang encourages her daughter to aim for the queen’s position. At a matchmaking event, Ming Chu looks down on Liu Zheng’s family but regrets it when she realizes he is wealthy. She meets Jiang Xu at the monastery but, not recognizing him, insults Ming Tan and is silenced by Jiang Xu’s pressure point technique.

On the way down the mountain, bandits attack. Ming Chu helps the bandits to disgrace Ming Tan, but Jiang Xu appears and saves her. Ming Tan accidentally calls Jiang Xu “husband,” and Ming Chu notices the secret in Ming Tan’s ring and tries to expose her. When Ming Chu’s collusion with the bandits is revealed, Jiang Xu exposes his identity and also exposes Yu Yinyang’s conspiracy. Ming Chu is sent far away to marry.

Jiang Xu and Ming Zhengyuan discuss punishing Yu Yinyang, originally planning to exile her to Miao’an Temple, but since Ming Tan’s uncle is there, they change the punishment to exile. On the day of the wedding preparations at the Northern King’s residence, the son of the Marquis of Shengyun is exposed for insulting a scholar and confesses to exam fraud and embezzlement of military funds.

Zuo Shangshu Wenxun secretly manipulates the incident and tries to silence the Marquis of Shengyun. Ming Tan goes to Bieyulou to learn the zither before the wedding and is caught by Jiang Xu, who explains that Shuiying from the brothel is actually his secret agent. On the night before the wedding, Ming Tan is kidnapped. Jiang Xu carries on with the wedding as planned while secretly mobilizing his agents to find Ming Tan.

Ming Zhengyuan hides Ming Tan’s disappearance by pretending to be happy and claiming she has a cold. When Ming Tan’s adoptive mother forces her way into the inner courtyard, she sees someone under a red veil, but Bai Minmin reveals it is actually Luoyue in disguise. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun tries to cause trouble during the wedding ceremony, but Jiang Xu appears with the real Ming Tan, announcing that he raided the kidnappers’ hideout the night before and rescued his bride.

Jiang Xu carries Ming Tan into the flower palanquin in front of everyone, and the celebration is doubled with gifts from the emperor. On their wedding night, Yumo appears, and Jiang Xu realizes he is the mastermind behind the kidnapping. Ming Tan waits for Jiang Xu until late at night, but he leaves after a misunderstanding over a picture book. Ming Zhengyuan hints to Zuo Shangshu Wenxun during a drinking session that he is involved with the Hai You Sect.

Ming Zhengyuan points out that Zuo Shangshu Wenxun is involved in the kidnapping, but Zuo Shangshu Wenxun brushes it off with affection for his daughter. On the first day of marriage, Jiang Xu carefully helps Ming Tan adapt to life at the royal residence. Guiwen is kidnapped, and Qiu Yu asks Ming Tan for help to visit the prison.

Ming Tan practices her role as queen by serving lunch at the military camp and deepens her relationship with Jiang Xu. At night, Ming Tan approaches Jiang Xu, but he refuses due to busy work. The next day at the palace, Shen Yu bullies Ming Tan, but Jiang Xu carries her in his arms, publicly displaying his affection. The Marquis of Shengyun is poisoned in prison, and Qiu Yu is rejected by her father.

Jiang Xu asks the emperor to lighten the punishment for the Gu family women, and the emperor jokes that he has become soft after marriage. The empress dowager pretends to reconcile, but Shen Yu tries to embarrass Ming Tan and is instead protected by Jiang Xu. Qiu Yu goes to the prison to confirm her father’s death and discovers that the poison was administered by the Gu family chef. Ming Tan tells Bai Minmin about Jiang Xu’s “secret problem,” which Jiang Xu overhears, causing embarrassment when he is served nourishing food at dinner.

Jiang Xu exposes the chef as the culprit, and Qiu Yu is chased by Hai You Sect assassins while trying to escape with secret ledgers. Ming Tan recognizes the assassins as Hai You Sect members, and Jiang Xu is put in danger while trying to save Qiu Yu. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun uses the opportunity to place his own people in key positions.

Ming Tan realizes that the person chasing Qiu Yu is the same one who kidnapped her. At the critical moment, Zhang Huiyu appears and saves her. Zhang Huiyu grows closer to Bai Minmin, and Ming Tan realizes Jiang Xu deliberately gave Qiu Yu a chance, clearing up the misunderstanding. Bai Minmin misunderstands Zhang Huiyu’s relationship with Shuiying and becomes jealous.

At court, Zuo Shangshu Wenxun tries to place his people in key positions, and Jiang Xu pretends to relinquish military power to pressure the officials. Qiu Yu is safely pardoned, and Ming Tan discovers the refugee problem and opens warehouses for relief. Jiang Xu tracks the missing relief funds, and Zuo Shangshu Wenxun tries to send Ming Zhengyuan to a dangerous site.

Ming Tan has an allergic reaction after eating fish prepared by Jiang Xu, but he nurses her all night and wins her heart. The play written by Ming Tan and Bai Minmin is a success, and Jiang Xu shows jealousy over Ming Tan. Ming Tan prepares clothes for Jiang Xu, but he pretends to be indifferent. The couple wears matching outfits to promote a store, but Jiang Xu leaves due to work. Everyone laughs at the funny eyebrows Jiang Xu drew. Bai Minmin is rescued by Zhang Huiyu during a matchmaking event, and Ming Tan resolves her misunderstanding with Jiang Xu, deepening their relationship. The refugee problem grows, and Ming Zhengyuan’s relief efforts are in crisis.

Bai Minmin storms out of a matchmaking event in anger at male chauvinism and is rescued by Zhang Huiyu. Jiang Xu discovers that the kidnapping is related to Zuo Shangshu Wenxun and Yumo. Shen Yu tries to trap Ming Tan using Go Cheom, but Jiang Xu saves Ming Tan and castrates Go Cheom. Shen Yu is imprisoned at Daejongjeongsa, and the empress dowager pressures Jiang Xu to take a concubine. When Yun Yinyang appears, Ming Tan misunderstands that she is Jiang Xu’s ex-lover and is hurt, deciding to divorce. Jiang Xu is whipped but hides it, and the rumor spreads, making Ming Tan even angrier. Yun Yinyang explains that she only serves Chuying, deepening the misunderstanding. Jiang Xu realizes the empress dowager wanted him to take a concubine for Shen Yu. Ming Tan deliberately offers to choose a concubine to show her jealousy, and Jiang Xu gives Ming Tan a simple meal while he eats lavishly. At night, Jiang Xu meets Yumo and smells the kidnapper’s scent on him, but Jiang Xu appears and explains that Yun Yinyang is actually a secret agent, clearing up the misunderstanding.

Refugees blame Ming Zhengyuan for failing to provide relief and losing their homes. An assassin tries to kill Ming Zhengyuan but fails and commits suicide. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun proposes to dismiss Ming Zhengyuan and confiscate his property, and the emperor and Jiang Xu track the Hai You Sect connection. The nanny comes to stay with Ming Tan.

Refugees who moved in blame Ming Zhengyuan for losing their homes and vent their anger at Ming Tan. Officials impeach Ming Zhengyuan, and Jiang Xu secretly transports him to the capital for his safety. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun sends Guo Bingmo to take over relief efforts, and assassins lure Ming Zhengyuan to the mountain road to kill him, but fail. Ming Tan worries about the nanny’s safety and tries to return home but is blocked at the gate.

Jiang Xu captures the refugee instigators and reveals that the Hai You Sect is behind them. The governor of Gyeongjo attempts to search the royal residence with a fake warrant but is chased away by Jiang Xu. Ming Tan smells the kidnapper’s scent on Yumo and suspects Zuo Shangshu Wenxun’s involvement. When Ming Tan asks Zuo Shangshu Wenxun for help, he instead accuses Ming Zhengyuan of colluding with the enemy.

Jiang Xu finds a letter to the emperor slandering Ming Zhengyuan and realizes Zuo Shangshu Wenxun is trying to frame the Northern King. Ming Tan sees Zuo Shangshu Wenxun’s true nature and returns the bracelet he gave her, declaring their separation. After returning home, Ming Tan questions Shim Ok about the attempt on her father’s life and misunderstands that Jiang Xu is behind it.

The emperor summons Guo Bingmo to investigate Ming Zhengyuan’s treason charges, and Zuo Shangshu Wenxun tries to recruit Guo Bingmo to seize western military power. Jiang Xu tells Ming Tan that Ming Zhengyuan will be executed in three days, and Ming Tan falls into despair, wanting to see her father one last time. Jiang Xu secretly discusses countermeasures with Ming Zhengyuan in prison and decides to attack the Shu family in Lingzhou. Meanwhile, Zhang Huiyu, entrusted with an important item by Bai Minmin before leaving to investigate taxes in Lingzhou, sets off.

Ming Tan sneaks into the military camp at night to see her father, and Jiang Xu lures Zuo Shangshu Wenxun out in Ming Zhengyuan’s name, gradually setting up a counterattack. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun pretends to comfort Ming Zhengyuan but secretly poisons him. Ming Tan rushes in and witnesses her father’s death, believing Jiang Xu and Zuo Shangshu Wenxun conspired. Jiang Xu arrests Zuo Shangshu Wenxun to investigate the truth and presides over Ming Zhengyuan’s funeral by the emperor’s order. Ming Tan, in despair, tears up the marriage contract and enters Hanyansa, praying every day and cutting herself off from the world.

Bai Minmin comes to take Ming Tan but finds her gone, and everyone searches for her. Ming Tan eventually returns home and holds a memorial service for her father in the family shrine. Yun Yinyang tells Ming Tan that Ming Zhengyuan entrusted her to Jiang Xu before his death. Jiang Xu silently guards Ming Tan outside the door, but she refuses to accept him.

Zhang Huiyu waits for Bai Minmin before leaving, but Yun Yinyang conveys the message, “Come back safely.” Ming Tan continues to refuse food and communication. Jiang Xu tries to win her back but only makes things worse. Liu Zheng ruins the flowers, and Shu Yigong tries to win Yun Yinyang’s heart with roasted chicken. Ming Tan accidentally discovers a clue to smuggled jewelry and traces it to Luo Zhanggui in Lingzhou. Soldiers who participated in relief efforts risk their lives to expose Guo Bingmo’s false accusations, and Jiang Xu decides to investigate the incident in Lingzhou with Zhang Huiyu.

Ming Tan decides to accompany him under the pretext of worrying about Zhang Huiyu, and Jiang Xu loads dozens of carriages with luggage but Ming Tan sends most of them back. The empress is worried about her brother Zhang Huiyu’s disappearance, and Jiang Xu secretly leaves for Lingzhou. Bai Minmin warns Ming Tan to be careful of the beauties in Lingzhou. The journey to Lingzhou is fraught with danger, with different agendas and dangers lurking.

Jiang Xu meticulously prepares for Ming Tan to reunite with her father dramatically. Ming Tan had misunderstood that Jiang Xu was preventing her from seeing her father, but in fact, Jiang Xu had planned everything to rescue Ming Zhengyuan. Zhang Huiyu’s trip to Lingzhou was also part of the plan. Father and daughter reunite at a countryside house, and Ming Tan understands Jiang Xu’s true intentions. Meanwhile, Shu Yigong and Yun Yinyang travel together, experiencing misunderstandings and small mishaps. At night, Jiang Xu comforts Ming Tan, who cannot sleep, and washes her hair the next day, bringing them even closer. Meanwhile, the Hai You Sect prepares assassinations, and the pursuit of Zhang Huiyu and Jin Yunwei heads to Lingzhou. The crisis is approaching.

Bai Minmin is delighted to receive a birthday gift prepared by Zhang Huiyu as a play, but is shocked to hear that he has died in Lingzhou. Jiang Xu’s group is ambushed by assassins on the way to Lingzhou. Jiang Xu is injured protecting Ming Tan, and Shu Yigong is injured saving Yun Yinyang. Ming Zhengyuan secretly helps them overcome the crisis, but Yun Yinyang is kidnapped by the Hai You Sect. Shu Yigong blames himself for failing to protect Yun Yinyang and clashes with Jiang Xu in heightened emotions.

Ming Tan tries to reconcile the two. In Lingzhou, the Shu family wields power, and Jiang Xu severely punishes corrupt officials. Shu Yiying tries to seduce Jiang Xu but fails. Ming Tan investigates Lingzhou disguised as a merchant, and Bai Minmin decides to revive the Mundogak in honor of Zhang Huiyu. Yun Yinyang, imprisoned, recalls memories with Shu Yigong, and the truth behind the Hai You Sect’s conspiracy and Zhang Huiyu’s death gradually emerges.

Jiang Xu sees through Wu Baichong’s lies, and at a banquet arranged by Shu Yiying, he deliberately mentions that Zhang Huiyu has already safely returned to the capital, making the officials nervous. Ming Tan exposes a scam at a tavern and helps merchant Mun Jong, showing her sense of justice and business acumen. At the banquet, Jiang Xu pretends to win the favor of dancer Cheongwoo while secretly having agents search the Shu residence for traces of Yun Yinyang. When Cheongwoo drops a wine bottle, Wu Baichong’s reaction confirms he is the masked assassin. Shu Yigong risks his life to infiltrate the Hai You Sect base and rescues Yun Yinyang. Choo Woo reports to Jiang Xu that Ming Tan is getting close to Mun Jong, making Jiang Xu jealous.

Ming Tan publicly confronts a maid at Luo Zhanggui’s shop who claims to be the Northern King’s sister, cleverly mocking Ming Chu’s abuse of power and drawing everyone’s attention. Shu Yiying witnesses this scene with Jiang Xu, and when the maid kneels, Jiang Xu presents Ming Tan (using the alias Heogu) with a bracelet, pretending to have a romantic encounter on the spot.

Conflict between the Shu steward and Wu Baichong is revealed, and agents capture Wu Baichong bribing the nanny. At the banquet, Mun Jong actively approaches Ming Tan, making Jiang Xu uncomfortable. Ming Tan proposes to cash in the valuable jewelry and donate it to the Northern Army, wisely resolving the bribery controversy. Ming Chu, hearing that Jiang Xu is in Lingzhou, is scolded by her father-in-law.

General Feng is angry that Ming Chu continues to cause trouble and reveals a letter from Ming Zhengyuan entrusting her discipline to the Feng family. Ming Chu is humiliated and threatened with divorce. Shu Yiying has Cheongwoo seduce Jiang Xu, and Cheongwoo pretends to be intimate with Jiang Xu in front of Ming Tan to provoke her jealousy.

Jiang Xu pretends to play along but cannot hide his anger. Mun Jong makes a business proposal to Ming Tan, further provoking Jiang Xu’s jealousy, and the two men have a drinking contest. The nanny fails to assassinate the steward, and the theft of Shu family property is exposed. The Shu family descends into chaos.

Ming Tan and Mun Jong find clues to smuggling at a teahouse, and Ming Tan senses that Mun Jong is not ordinary. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun realizes that Wu Baichong is the leader of the Hai You Sect and that his own faction has become a threat. Shu Yiying traps Jiang Xu and Ming Tan in a room, but they use the opportunity to exchange information while pretending to be lovers. Shu Yigong and Yun Yinyang pretend to argue to shake off pursuers and safely move Zhang Huiyu. When Shu Yiying bursts into the room, Jiang Xu has already hidden Ming Tan’s identity and finished the act. Shu Yiying’s subordinates invade the wrong farmhouse, unaware that Zhang Huiyu is already under Jiang Xu’s protection.

At the auction, Ming Chu spends 400 nyang on a fake jewel box, and Ming Tan finds evidence of smuggling hidden in an incense burner. Choo Woo asks Jiang Xu for help with an embroidered handkerchief but is kidnapped by Shu assassins. Eun Sil is threatened by Jiang Xu into handing over the ledger, and Cheongwoo pretends to poison someone while teaming up with Jiang Xu. Shu Yiying brings people to the murder scene, but the awakened Eun Sil exposes her plot.

Meanwhile, the imperial guards find all the smuggled goods at Xianquanzhuang. The governor seals the scene, and Jang Doweon is severely scolded for interfering in the investigation. Ming Tan reveals her identity and overwhelms everyone, and Mun Jong is shocked to learn that “Heogu” is the Northern Queen. Feng Yukrim takes Ming Chu away, and Ming Chu still blames Ming Tan for her troubles, unaware that she almost endangered the Feng family.

Youthful Glory Endingng (spoiler)

Ming Tan helps Jiang Xu solve the major case and is secretly pleased to hear from Choo Woo that the emperor praised her. However, after Ming Tan leaves, the inn where Jiang Xu is staying is suddenly attacked, and many soldiers are injured. Ming Tan sees the chaos in the streets and asks the captain for support. Choo Woo accompanies Ming Tan for her safety, but they are ambushed on the way. Ming Tan is almost hit by an arrow, but Jiang Xu, hidden in the dark, kills the assassin and saves her.

Jiang Xu leads the remaining men to rescue Ming Tan, but the enemy is too numerous. After Ming Tan is moved to safety, Jiang Xu returns to fight the leader of the assassins. This time, he fights without hesitation, and the assassins suffer heavy losses. When the imperial guards arrive, the assassin leader flees, and the rest are captured.

After Shu Yiying is arrested, her accomplice from Nanlyu has no intention of rescuing her, believing that the Shu family’s downfall will allow Nanlyu to take their place. The imperial guards confirm that Ming Chu was not involved, and she narrowly avoids punishment. However, Ming Chu does not repent and still blames Ming Tan for her troubles. General Feng and Feng Yukrim lock her in the family shrine to reflect. Ming Chu vents all her resentment on Ming Tan, saying she would not have been separated from her mother and sent far away to marry if not for Ming Tan.

Ming Tan visits the teahouse of memories with Cheongwoo. Cheongwoo, with Jiang Xu’s help, regains her status and prepares to start a new life. Ming Tan thanks her for her sacrifice, but Cheongwoo is embarrassed. At the inn, Cheongwoo had knocked out Eun Sil and returned, but was nervous to see Jiang Xu unharmed. Persuaded by Jiang Xu, she decides to expose the Shu family and gain her freedom.

The Lingzhou incident is resolved, and Jiang Xu and Ming Tan walk the streets together. Ming Tan notices that Cheongwoo likes Jiang Xu and shows her jealousy. The evidence of smuggling and stolen goods are safely sent to the capital, and the officials involved all beg for forgiveness. Shu Yiying is punished, but fortunately, none of the profits she gained went to Zuo Shangshu Wenxun. The emperor intended to punish Zuo Shangshu Wenxun because of their father-daughter relationship, but Zuo Shangshu Wenxun had already removed himself from the Shu family register.

The emperor realizes he underestimated Zuo Shangshu Wenxun. Even though Shu Yiying was involved in major smuggling crimes, her father, Zuo Shangshu Wenxun, escaped unscathed. Still, Zuo Shangshu Wenxun’s power is already over, and Shu Yiying cannot escape execution. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun angrily gives his subordinate a secret mission.

At this time, Go Cheom and his gang storm into Mundogak to harass Bai Minmin, even slandering Zhang Huiyu, whose fate is unknown. In the crisis, Zhang Huiyu appears and saves Bai Minmin. The servants help the injured Go Cheom away. Zhang Huiyu chases after the angry Bai Minmin and sincerely apologizes. Bai Minmin finally gathers the courage to confess her feelings, saying she worried about him every day for months and lost the will to live when she heard he had died. Zhang Huiyu hugs Bai Minmin and promises to persuade his family to formally propose.

Jiang Xu gives Ming Tan the best zither as a gift. The two spend a happy time together under the moonlight in the pavilion, listening to the sound of the zither. Meanwhile, Yun Yinyang sets off fireworks at the right moment as Ming Tan requested. Shu Yigong and Yun Yinyang watch the fireworks and decide to cherish the present moment rather than worry about the future.

After strict investigations in the capital, all the corrupt officials confess, and the mastermind is revealed to be Vice Minister of Revenue Yumo. The emperor sees that Zuo Shangshu Wenxun used Yumo as a scapegoat, and Yumo calmly admits his guilt. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun is secretly relieved.

That night, the Ministry of Revenue investigates Yumo’s identity under Jiang Xu’s orders. Yumo is from Cheongju, but there is no Yu family there. The emperor recalls the incident fifteen years ago when Prince Minjong and the Northern Army died waiting for reinforcements because information was delayed by a spy. The spy committed suicide, but Yumo is actually his son, who changed his name and entered the capital with his mother.

That night, the emperor visits the prison in disguise. Yumo is surprised that the emperor realizes he was framed. The emperor sees that Yumo acted out of revenge, not greed. He tells Yumo that fifteen years ago, his father, spy Eom Jangyoung, was drugged and unable to fulfill his mission, and eventually committed suicide in prison, but it might have been murder. Yumo realizes his father was killed and that he had been loyal to his enemy.

Zuo Shangshu Wenxun sends someone to say goodbye to Yumo. Yumo recognizes him as “Sadae Oppa,” who fed him when he was hungry as a child and taught him to study. Yumo thought Sadae Oppa was dead, but he was alive. Sadae Oppa says this is their last goodbye, feeds Yumo, and Yumo thanks him while eating.

Yumo wonders why Zuo Shangshu Wenxun chose him and why Sadae Oppa works for Zuo Shangshu Wenxun, and eventually realizes that Sadae Oppa is the one who killed his father. Sadae Oppa says he would have been executed for desertion if not for Zuo Shangshu Wenxun. He was sent to escort Yumo to prison on Zuo Shangshu Wenxun’s orders. Yumo thanks Sadae Oppa for his kindness but realizes he is his father’s enemy and that they must part ways.

Earlier, the emperor visited the prison and told Yumo the truth about his father’s death. Yumo hands over Zuo Shangshu Wenxun’s seal and confesses everything, providing evidence of Zuo Shangshu Wenxun’s crimes. Sadae Oppa tries to kill Yumo for betraying Zuo Shangshu Wenxun, but the imperial guards ambush and arrest him. Zuo Shangshu Wenxun is also arrested by the imperial guards.

Ming Zhengyuan is cleared of all charges and his honor is restored. General Feng apologizes to Ming Tan and blames himself for not taking better care of Ming Chu. He says he has already divorced Feng Yukrim, but Feng Yukrim can return anytime if he repents.

At this time, Choo Woo brings urgent news: Guo Bingmo is preparing to rebel without the court’s permission. Ming Zhengyuan is sure that Zuo Shangshu Wenxun is behind it. Jiang Xu is ordered to suppress the rebellion and entrusts Ming Tan’s safety to the Ming family. Guo Bingmo leads a large army to attack, but the Northern King’s army is outnumbered. Ming Zhengyuan decides to lead the Ming family army into battle himself. Shu Yigong tries to stop him, but Ming Zhengyuan is determined.

The next day, Mun Jong (Prince Nanlyu) leads a large army to Lingzhou, taking advantage of Jiang Xu’s departure. Shu Yigong and Yun Yinyang escort Ming Tan to Shanxi. Shu Yigong worries that the bustling city will become a bloodbath tonight. When the rebels attack, General Feng is in danger hanging from the city wall. Feng Yukrim wants to save his father but is also worried about Ming Tan’s safety. At this time, Prince Nanlyu Mun Jong enters the city with his army and takes Ming Tan hostage.

Zhang Huiyu receives a secret letter from Jiang Xu and tries to deliver information to the palace, but security is tight. He consults with Bai Minmin and sneaks into the palace at night to meet his sister.

Meanwhile, Yumo is rescued from prison by someone. The emperor senses that Zuo Shangshu Wenxun is making his move. The rebels try to enter the palace with a shift change order, but Zhang Huiyu ambushes and kills them. Mun Jong uses Ming Tan to threaten Jiang Xu, saying he will release the people of Lingzhou if Ming Tan goes with him to Nanlyu. Ming Tan reluctantly agrees to save the people, but her heart is bitter and resentful.

That night, Mun Jong takes Ming Tan to the city wall and reminisces about their memories. He boasts that he played the Shu family like a puppet. Mun Jong sincerely likes Ming Tan and promises to make her his queen in Nanlyu. But Ming Tan is already married and cannot accept.

At this time, Ming Zhengyuan pretends to be the Nanlyu leader and opens the city gate. Ming Tan is worried about her father’s safety, but when the gate opens, Ming Zhengyuan quickly removes his disguise, and Ming Tan immediately recognizes him as her father. Meanwhile, Yun Yinyang and the others escape and save General Feng and Feng Yukrim. General Feng leads his soldiers to fight the rebels. Trapped inside and outside the city, the Nanlyu army is defeated and trapped in the city. Zhengshu tries to use Ming Tan as a hostage to help Mun Jong escape, but Mun Jong orders her to be released. Zhengshu tries to harm Ming Tan, but Mun Jong kills his own men and then takes his own life.

The next day, Feng Yukrim brings Ming Chu. Ming Chu still does not repent and blames Ming Tan for her troubles. Ming Tan explains that smuggling would have dire consequences and that locking her up was to protect both the Ming family and Ming Chu herself. Ming Chu still misunderstands, but Ming Tan says she never competed with Ming Chu and only wishes her happiness.

At this time, Ming Zhengyuan appears. Ming Chu is moved to see her father alive and hugs him, promising to become a new person.

Meanwhile, the emperor is hunting, and Guo Bingmo has already set up an ambush in the forest to stage a coup. But when he gives the order to attack, he realizes the emperor is a fake and it is too late. He attacks the emperor’s camp, but the emperor and Liu Zheng have already set a trap. However, they are outnumbered and in danger. At this time, Jiang Xu arrives with reinforcements.

Zuo Shangshu Wenxun drinks tea at home, confident that everything is going according to plan. But Yumo suddenly appears. Yumo knows the truth about his father’s death, and Zuo Shangshu Wenxun still tries to deceive him. Yumo tries to kill Zuo Shangshu Wenxun, but Sadae Oppa appears and stops him. The two fight fiercely and eventually kill each other. Yumo uses his last strength to kill Zuo Shangshu Wenxun and collapses.

Guo Bingmo, after his defeat, tries to excuse himself in front of the emperor, but the emperor sees through his lies and imprisons him. Jiang Xu scolds the emperor for taking risks, but the emperor laughs and says he acts according to his status.

At this time, news arrives that the empress dowager has committed suicide. Jiang Xu is anxious because Ming Tan is not by his side. He hears Ming Tan praying for the health of a child in the next room and joyfully rushes over. Ming Tan is praying for the safety of her unborn child. Jiang Xu is moved to realize he is about to become a father.

The next day, Bai Minmin visits Ming Tan early. Everyone signals for silence. The most important thing in the house is to take good care of Ming Tan and the baby in her womb. Jiang Xu worries that Bai Minmin will make the house noisy again and uses the excuse of caring for Ming Tan to keep her from going outside.

Zhang Huiyu is happy to hear from Jiang Xu that he will soon be an uncle. Bai Minmin says bluntly that Zhang Huiyu only thinks about marrying her. She says she does not want to marry and wants to live freely with her niece. Zhang Huiyu is unfazed and says he will choose a gift for the niece, taking Bai Minmin to the market.

At the market, they look at various items, and Bai Minmin decides to make a baby crib herself. Bai Minmin sees the peach blossom amulet Zhang Huiyu wears and thinks she did not give it to him, accusing him of cheating. But she soon realizes she gave it to him months ago and awkwardly admits it.

The emperor discusses state affairs with Jiang Xu, but Jiang Xu can only think of Ming Tan. He boldly asks for leave and says he will go home. The emperor is angry, but at this time, Shu Yigong volunteers to go to Lingzhou. He says he did not inform his father in advance but is determined to fulfill his aspirations and for the woman he loves. The emperor agrees.

Shu Yigong says goodbye to Yun Yinyang before leaving for Lingzhou. He prepares her favorite food and confesses his feelings with the help of alcohol. Yun Yinyang also likes him but thinks she cannot hope for him because of their status difference. Shu Yigong swears he will only marry her. Yun Yinyang says at night that she does not like Shu Yigong, but Shu Yigong sees through her lie and holds her hand, asking her to go to Lingzhou with him. Ming Tan realizes Yun Yinyang has already fallen in love with Shu Yigong. Yun Yinyang felt her heart race for the first time when Shu Yigong risked his life to save her and asked Jiang Xu to marry her. Everyone now knows their feelings.

Ming Tan encourages Yun Yinyang to bravely pursue her love. When Jiang Xu does not return late at night, Ming Tan goes to the military camp to find him. Jiang Xu is planning the attack on Nanlyu with his generals, and when Ming Tan arrives, he sends them out. Ming Tan thinks no one is in the room and acts cute with Jiang Xu, but the generals secretly watch and laugh.

The next day, Jiang Xu orders Yun Yinyang to go to Lingzhou to help Shu Yigong. Yun Yinyang realizes Jiang Xu is deliberately bringing her and Shu Yigong together and is moved. Ming Tan finds her mother’s keepsakes in the room and asks her maid to make clothes for Yun Yinyang. Yun Yinyang, who lost her parents as a child and worked at the Northern King’s residence, is treated like family by Ming Tan, who prepares a generous dowry for her. However, Yun Yinyang leaves a letter and leaves with Shu Yigong for Lingzhou.

Jiang Xu names the unborn child Beogwi after his title. Six years later, children play in the Northern King’s residence, and Bai Minmin and Zhang Huiyu also have children. On Lunar New Year, the whole family gathers and enjoys endless laughter and happiness. The story ends.

Cdrama Youthful Glory Endingng

This is a 30-episode Chinese drama, but for the first time in a while, it stands out as a fast-paced series. The male lead is a man of few words who acts before he speaks, while the female lead is bold and assertive. The romantic push-and-pull between the two unfolds with a sense of tension and excitement.

From the start, the drama features action scenes and rapid plot development, with the protagonists’ strategic thinking shining through, making it easy to watch without feeling frustrated. Even though the premise might seem familiar, the chemistry between the actors, the directing, and the smooth pacing make it exceed my expectations. In particular, Song Weilong’s portrayal of the general and Bao Shang’en’s strong-willed character are a perfect match—their chemistry is so strong, they seem like a couple destined for each other. Overall, the tone is kept light rather than heavy, making it a new historical romance that’s easy to enjoy without any burden.

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