“The Miner’s Daughter”1
Five-Episode Television Unit Drama Script (礦工兒女)
[1] Theme and Explanation
Theme:
This drama depicts Yang Jialing, the adopted daughter of miner Yang Tiansi’s family. In a poor and hardship-filled environment, she is filial, obedient, and well-behaved. While managing household chores and taking care of her father suffering from black lung disease and her younger brother with cerebral palsy, she does not forget to study diligently. She later meets her biological elder brother Zhao Renjie. Renjie not only treats Tiansi’s black lung disease but also encourages Jialing to apply to medical school. After the siblings recognize each other, Jialing learns from a nurse that Renjie suffers from leukemia, so she donates bone marrow to cure him. This drama promotes the determination of children from poor families to strive upward in adversity, conveys the ideas that “where there is a will, there is a way” and “those who help themselves will be helped,” and expresses the love for one’s hometown through serving the local community. This is a vivid and touching inspirational short drama, very suitable for the whole family to watch together.
Explanation: Each scene indicates the language used.
[2] Story Outline
This drama describes the year 1987 (Republic of China Year 76), in Houtong Village, a coal mining town in Ruifang Township, a poor Hakka miner’s family.
The female protagonist Yang Jialing studies at Provincial Keelung Girls’ High School. She is a filial and highly motivated girl. Jialing’s father, Yang Tiansi, has long worked in coal mines, but due to suffering from pneumoconiosis, he can no longer go down into the mines to dig coal. The family’s finances suddenly lose support. His wife You Tianmei has no choice but to go out to work, renting a storefront from neighbor Xu Fugui and opening “Ruyi Eatery” near the train station, working early to late to sustain the family.
Household responsibilities fall on Jialing and her younger sister Jiazhen. The two sisters must take care of their seriously ill father and their younger brother with cerebral palsy. The Yang family’s wooden house is also borrowed from Xu Fugui. The two families have a deep relationship. Xu Fugui is a foreman at Jianxing Coal Mine Company and takes good care of the poor Yang family. His son Xu Congming studies at Keelung High School and has been childhood sweethearts with Jialing. Both excel academically and are seen by villagers and classmates as a well-matched golden couple.
Zhao Renjie is a newly appointed doctor at the health station, specializing in otolaryngology. After encountering Jialing at Keelung Girls’ High School and noticing her striking resemblance to his deceased younger sister, he traces her address to Houtong in Ruifang. He gives up a superior environment and salary at a large public hospital in Taipei and voluntarily transfers to Houtong to confirm whether Jialing is his long-lost twin sister. Renjie visits Ruyi Eatery to dine, establishing contact with Tianmei and Jialing. Upon learning that Tiansi suffers from pneumoconiosis, he offers to treat him at the health station.
Tiansi’s condition worsens, and due to a damp home environment causing bronchial allergies, Jialing supports her father to the health station. After examination, Renjie determines from chest X-rays that the condition is severe and suggests aggressive treatment: lung lavage. Tiansi, thinking “a dead horse treated as if alive,” agrees to experimental treatment. After treatment, Tiansi’s health improves significantly, and Renjie becomes the Yang family’s benefactor. The news spreads quickly, attracting many miners with the same illness. Renjie gains fame.
As Tiansi improves, the family atmosphere becomes brighter. Jialing is inspired and decides to apply to medical school to become a doctor serving villagers. Her decision gains support from her family and Renjie. Renjie reveals that she resembles his deceased sister. Through further investigation and a letter left by their mother, the two recognize each other but keep it secret.
Meanwhile, Xu Congming becomes suspicious of Jialing frequently visiting Renjie. After learning the truth, he understands Renjie is her biological brother.
Jialing’s brother Jiaxiang is severely injured after being hit by Li Dongming, the son of the coal mine owner, who flees the scene. Xu Congming reports the case, leading to Dongming’s arrest. After compensation and reconciliation, Dongming becomes attracted to Jialing, creating a romantic rivalry with Congming.
Later, Renjie collapses and is diagnosed with chronic leukemia. Jialing volunteers bone marrow donation. After a successful transplant, Renjie recovers.
Two years later, Jialing is admitted to National Taiwan University’s medical school, becoming the pride of Ruifang. She declines a marriage proposal from the Xu family. Renjie supports her financially to complete her studies and fulfill her dream of becoming the first female doctor in Ruifang.
[3] Character Introduction
“The Miner’s Daughter” Television Script Character List
Yang Jialing (Hakka)
Female protagonist. Filial, obedient, intelligent, studious, and determined. Due to her brother’s condition, she decides not to marry and devotes herself to family care. Later aspires to serve villagers as a doctor.
17 years old. Student hairstyle, wearing uniform. Delicate features, well-developed, graceful.
Zhao Renjie (Mainlander)
Male protagonist, health station doctor (ENT specialist). Jialing’s biological brother. Dedicated, professional, compassionate, and prefers rural service over urban life.
About 28 years old. Medium build, wears glasses, refined appearance.
Li Dongming (Hoklo)
Mine owner’s son. Rebellious, idle, later reforms due to Jialing’s influence. Skilled in kendo.
20 years old. Sunglasses, pompadour hairstyle, flashy clothing.
Xu Congming (Hoklo)
Neighbor and childhood friend. Likes Jialing but is treated as a brother. Strong sense of justice, practices taekwondo.
17 years old. Rugged appearance, strong build.
Xiao Yaqian (Mainlander)
Congming’s classmate. Cheerful, humorous, often teased.
17 years old. Bearded, strong physique.
Xu Zhaodi (Hoklo)
Jialing’s close friend. Often bickers playfully with Xiao Yaqian.
17 years old. Student uniform.
Yang Tiansi
Adoptive father. Former miner with pneumoconiosis.
About 38 years old. Thin, frail.
You Tianmei (Hakka)
Adoptive mother. Hardworking, resilient, runs Ruyi Eatery.
About 36 years old. Simple clothing, freckled face.
Wang Xiaofen (Hakka)
Nurse. Kind, hardworking, admires Renjie.
About 22 years old.
Yang Jiaxiang (Hakka)
Younger brother. Cerebral palsy, dependent but kind-hearted.
14 years old.
Yang Jiazhen (Hakka)
Younger sister. Helpful and obedient.
About 11 years old.
Xu Fugui (Hoklo)
Mine foreman. Kind, generous, supports Yang family.
About 45 years old.
Wu Youxiu (Hoklo)
Xu Fugui’s wife. Kind and friendly.
About 40 years old.
Li Jianxing (Mainlander)
Mine owner. Strict father, busy businessman.
55 years old.
Chen Aijiao (Mainlander)
His wife. Indulgent toward son, fashionable.
46 years old.
Deng Youyi (Hakka)
Neighbor, disabled miner.
38 years old.
Wu Manmei (Hakka)
His wife. Hardworking and grateful.
34 years old.
Deng Wenfang (Hakka)
Their daughter. Responsible child.
About 8 years old.
Deng Wenming (Hakka)
Their son. Malnourished.
About 6 years old.
Zhang Da (Shandong)
Miner. Bold and loud.
About 50 years old.
Huang Dachuan (Hoklo)
Miner. Upright and outspoken.
About 30 years old.
Ah Hou
Dongming’s follower. Cunning but reforms later.
Gong Wan
Dongming’s follower. Blustering but weak.
Tu Niu
Dongming’s follower. Timid and indecisive.
【IV】Episode-by-Episode Story Outline
【Episode 1】
In the 76th year of the Republic of China, in Ruifang Township, a major mining disaster has just occurred at the Coal Mountain coal mine, with more than a hundred miners dead, and the entire Ruifang area is still shrouded in a gloomy and oppressive atmosphere.
Houtong, a mining village on the Pingxi Line, still has several coal mines in operation. The miner Yang Tiansi’s family lives in an old wooden plank house. Of the two men in the household, Tiansi suffers from black lung disease, the most common yet incurable occupational illness among miners; the eldest son, Jiaxiang, suffered from cerebral palsy at birth due to oxygen deprivation. His wife, You Tianmei, a hardworking and enduring Hakka woman, shoulders the livelihood of the entire family alone. The eldest daughter, Yang Jialing, is obedient and considerate; every day before going to school and after returning home, she takes the initiative to share the housework. Even more commendable is that despite living in such a laborious family environment, Jialing still maintains strict self-discipline in her studies. Together with her neighbor Xu Congming, and her junior high school classmates in the village, Xu Zhaodi and Xiao Yaqian, she has just been admitted to Keelung Girls’ High School and high school. After school begins in early September, the four of them agree to go to and from school together.
Every early morning, Jialing must race against time. She first helps her mother load the ingredients needed for that day’s eatery onto a three-wheeled handcart, then wakes up her younger brother and sister, helps them wash their faces and get dressed, feeds her brother with cerebral palsy breakfast, and only then hurriedly eats her own breakfast before waiting at the door for Xu Congming, who comes to pick her up. She rides his bicycle through the alleys to catch the early train.
On a certain day shortly after school starts, when Jialing and Congming arrive at Houtong train station, the train is just about to enter the station and tickets are being checked. After boarding, Zhaodi asks Jialing whether she plans to apply to the English Department of a teachers’ university. Jialing says that attending a teachers’ university would save tuition and reduce her family’s burden. Zhaodi says she wants to apply to the fashion department but worries that her mathematics is poor and asks Xu Congming to teach her. The four chat happily on the train.
After Jialing and Jiazhen leave for school, only Yang Tiansi and Jiaxiang remain at home. Tiansi has lost his ability to work due to black lung disease and, knowing that he does not have long to live, becomes depressed and dispirited. He lies on a reclining chair to enjoy the cool air, passing time in memories. Seeing his father coughing, Jiaxiang thoughtfully brings him a long gown to put on. At this time, their neighbor Wu Youxiu (Xu Congming’s mother) brings a box of Korean ginseng to nourish Tiansi’s body, and also tells him that she has heard of a folk herbal remedy for treating black lung disease, asking whether he would like to try it. Knowing that this is the neighbor’s good intention, Tiansi, with the mentality of treating a dead horse as if it were alive, readily agrees to take this folk remedy.
When Jialing returns home and smells the aroma of herbal medicine being boiled, she learns that her father wants to take the folk remedy. She immediately stops him and pours the herbs away. She earnestly persuades her father that he must trust the doctor’s diagnosis and not blindly believe rumors or take random remedies that might worsen his condition.
On the weekend, the filial and obedient Jialing takes the initiative to go to her mother You Tianmei’s “Ruyi Eatery” to help wash dishes, carry plates, and attend to customers. Xu Congming, who admires Jialing, voluntarily comes to help as well. Seeing this, customers tease the two, saying that they should be matched together in the future. At this time, a stranger from out of town arrives. You Tianmei takes the initiative to greet him and chat casually. During the conversation, she learns that he is Zhao Renjie, a newly assigned doctor at the health station. Tianmei mentions that many miners here suffer from black lung disease and are tormented by it for a long time, including her own husband. Doctor Zhao immediately reminds her to bring her husband to the health station for consultation. Tianmei whispers to her daughter Jialing, saying that even the doctors at the miners’ hospital cannot cure black lung disease, and she does not quite believe that this young doctor’s medical skills could be so advanced, since she has heard that this disease currently has no cure. Xu Congming notices that Doctor Zhao keeps staring at Jialing and suspects that he may have ulterior motives toward her.
On Sunday morning, Jialing supports her father Tiansi to the health station for treatment. Doctor Zhao says he specializes in otolaryngology and is more proficient in diagnosing and treating such respiratory diseases. He first takes a chest X-ray of Tiansi. The father and daughter return to the eatery, where Tianmei asks Jialing about the doctor’s skills. Jialing says she finds the doctor quite kind and enthusiastic. The children of their neighbor Deng Youcai come to buy a bowl of flat rice noodles. Tianmei cooks a bit more and asks Jialing to deliver it to them. A customer, Huang Dachuan, highly praises Tianmei’s kindness and generosity, then changes the topic to criticize the coal mine owners for being heartless and unjust, abandoning miners once they develop black lung disease.
Soon after, Wu Manmei pushes Deng Youcai in a wheelchair, bringing their two children to the Yang family to express gratitude. Youcai does not want to rely on charity for long and asks Tianmei to allow his wife A-Man to work at the eatery. Tiansi and his wife gladly agree. Zhao Renjie comes again to dine at Ruyi Eatery, and Tianmei specially prepares a large plate of braised dishes to treat him. She asks why he chose to transfer to such a remote area. Renjie replies that he seeks peace and quiet and inquires about Jialing’s situation. Tianmei says Jialing studies at Keelung Girls’ High School and does well academically; no matter how hard it is, she will support her education.
Winter rain continues to fall. Tiansi coughs up blood, and Jialing quickly goes to find Xu Congming for help. Together they support Tiansi to the health station. Doctor Zhao diagnoses allergic bronchitis and says the patient’s home environment must be improved and allergens isolated. After sending Congming away, Renjie tells Jialing that her father’s condition is serious and that without timely treatment, he may not last a year. Jialing is shocked and urgently asks if there is any way to save him. Renjie says he can try a new method of “lung lavage,” but the bronchitis must first be treated. He asks that Tiansi stay in the ward for recuperation and also examines Jialing, prescribing her cold medicine. Jialing feels overwhelmed by the doctor’s kindness and asks the reason. Renjie tells her that she closely resembles his deceased younger sister.
Jialing brings dinner to the health station for the doctor and nurse. The nurse mistakenly thinks Jialing is currying favor and speaks with jealousy. Zhao Renjie suggests that Jialing first take Tiansi to the miners’ hospital; if they refuse to perform the lung lavage, she can return. Renjie then shares his life story with Jialing, arousing her curiosity.
At noon on the weekend, Jialing helps at the eatery. Due to a verbal misunderstanding, an amusing scene of talking past each other occurs among customers. They praise Tianmei for being good at making people laugh, while she is completely puzzled. In the evening, just before the health station closes, Jialing brings Tiansi for a consultation, delaying Nurse Xiaofen’s off-duty time. Renjie asks about the miners’ hospital visit; Jialing says they do not provide such a risky treatment. Renjie says that if he performs it, the family must sign a consent form. Tiansi says he can decide and asks Jialing to call home for Tianmei to bring a seal. Renjie then admits Tiansi to the ward and prepares to perform the lung lavage.
Jialing stays in the ward with her father. Tiansi laments that he has not given his family a good life and worries that after his death, his son Jiaxiang’s future will be miserable. Jialing gently comforts him and says she does not plan to marry and will stay to take care of her brother. Tiansi disagrees, saying that a grown daughter should marry, and asks whether she likes Xu Congming. Jialing replies that she has always regarded Congming as an elder brother.
On the train to school, Jialing tells Zhaodi that her father’s illness has inspired her to change her plan and apply to medical school so she can save lives and serve her hometown. Congming reminds her that medical school is difficult and expensive. Jialing has already made up her mind. She tells her parents her decision and says she is willing to work while studying. Tianmei says she will do her best to support her and tells her to focus on studying.
Tianmei goes to the temple of the Eighteen Lords to burn incense and draw fortune sticks, asking about Tiansi’s illness and Jialing’s future. The fortune indicates that Tiansi will receive help from a benefactor, and Tianmei believes that Doctor Zhao is that benefactor. Jialing draws a very favorable fortune, predicting she will become a doctor who saves lives, which greatly encourages Tianmei.
Doctor Zhao performs lung lavage on Yang Tiansi, washing out two buckets of black fluid. Tiansi’s condition improves immediately, and the Yang family is overjoyed. As his strength recovers, Xu Fugui’s family visits him. Fugui suggests spreading the news widely to benefit other miners. Indeed, from the next day, long lines form at the health station, filled with miners from nearby areas.
【Episode 2】
Yang Tiansi is no longer bedridden. Although he can only do handicraft work at home, the whole family is happy for him. Tiansi tells his family to repay Doctor Zhao well. The harmonious family atmosphere further strengthens Jialing’s determination to apply to medical school.
Jialing brings dinner to the health station and sees that even after working hours, Doctor Zhao is still seeing patients, and the waiting room is filled with gifts from patients’ families. Nurse Xiaofen complains about working overtime daily. Jialing hints that Renjie should find someone to take care of him. Renjie says he does not want someone nagging him and reveals that he will not stay here long.
Jialing studies even harder, making full use of fragmented time. Congming hopes she can relax. Zhaodi suggests he confess his feelings on Valentine’s Day. Congming confesses, but Jialing says she sees him as a brother and plans not to marry. Congming is saddened but still tries to persuade her, unsuccessfully.
On Tiansi’s birthday, the family celebrates with a cake. Jialing asks him to make a wish and gives him a gift. The Yang family regains its former joy.
Zhao Renjie invites Jialing to his dormitory, showing her his late sister’s photograph, which looks exactly like her. He reveals the truth and shows their mother’s will. Jialing realizes she is his long-lost sister and that she is adopted. The two acknowledge each other but keep it secret.
Congming grows suspicious and questions Jialing. To dispel his doubts, she takes him to the dormitory and reveals the truth.
Jiaxiang is hit by a car and falls down a slope. Congming witnesses the accident, records the license plate, rescues Jiaxiang, and brings him to the health station.
Police track down the driver, Li Dongming, the son of coal mine owner Li Jianxing. Dongming is arrested. Jiaxiang is rushed to the hospital.
Li Jianxing and his wife apologize and offer compensation. Jianxing later decides to discipline his son by making him work at the mine from the lowest level.
Dongming becomes attracted to Jialing and begins pursuing her, creating tension with Congming.
Jialing’s view of Dongming gradually changes after learning about his background.
Meanwhile, Zhao Renjie suddenly falls ill at the health station, and Jialing asks the nurse to take good care of him.
【Episode 3】
After school at the girls’ high school, on a street near the school, Jialing is molested by two delinquent youths. Li Dongming happens to drive past, drives the two youths away in time, and rescues Jialing from the situation. Dongming helps the frightened Jialing to her feet and brushes the dust off her long skirt. By coincidence, Xu Congming, who has come looking for Jialing, sees this scene from a distance and mistakenly believes that Dongming is bullying Jialing. He chases after them but fails to stop Dongming’s car. On the mountain road back to Houtong, Dongming reminds Jialing not to wander alone when shopping and also inquires when Jiaxiang will be discharged from the hospital. Dongming thanks Jialing’s parents for not filing a lawsuit over the accident in which he injured Jiaxiang, thus sparing him from imprisonment. From that moment, he realizes his past mistakes.
Xu Congming gathers several classmates from the taekwondo club and lies in wait near Li Jianxing’s house. As expected, they intercept Li Dongming, who is about to return home. Congming steps forward to question him. Although Dongming explains that Jialing was being harassed by delinquent youths that day and that he helped her out, Congming does not believe him. Congming and the others bring Dongming into the house and complain to Jianxing face to face, demanding justice. Dongming loudly protests his innocence. After hearing his explanation, Jianxing believes it is reasonable and likely true. Congming also feels that he may be in the wrong, so he apologizes on the spot and leaves.
Xu Congming accompanies Jialing to stroll at the Keelung Miaokou night market, where they run into Li Dongming on a narrow path. Dongming puts on an air of wealth and treats them to snacks at the market. Dongming is set up by Congming; while the three are eating meatballs, Dongming’s frivolous remarks anger Jialing, who slaps him and leaves angrily.
The next day, Congming has a stomachache, and Jialing accompanies him to the health station. Zhao Renjie asks if he ate something improper. Only then does Congming mention that he had taken advantage of Li Dongming the previous day at the night market. Renjie reminds them not to take advantage of others.
That night, Li Dongming waits at the entrance of the Yang family’s alley with flowers and chocolate, intending to apologize to Jialing. As Jialing goes out to deliver a late-night meal, Dongming appears in time and apologizes. Seeing his sincere expression, Jialing forgives him. The two chat as they walk to the health station dormitory. Jialing accepts the bouquet but politely declines the chocolate. She then gives the flowers to her elder brother Zhao Renjie. Renjie, having witnessed the earlier scene, deliberately asks about the boy who gave her the flowers and reminds Jialing that she should focus on her studies and not engage in romance at this stage. Jialing says she intends to become a female doctor and does not plan to marry. Renjie instead advises her not to adhere to lifelong celibacy and speaks well of Xu Congming, saying he is a good boy. Renjie also asks about Jiaxiang’s recovery. Jialing says that after brain surgery, Jiaxiang’s muscles are no longer as stiff and his movements are more flexible. Renjie finds this unbelievable and agrees that when Jiaxiang is discharged, he should be brought to the health station for examination.
An explosion of gas occurs in the tunnel at Jianxing Coal Mine, shocking the entire Houtong area. Li Jianxing leads office staff with equipment into the mine to rescue the injured. Those with minor injuries are sent to the health station, and those seriously injured are transferred to the miners’ hospital. Fortunately, no miners are killed in the accident.
More than a dozen burn and inhalation injury patients suddenly arrive at the health station. Doctor Zhao and Nurse Xiaofen guide Jianxing and his staff to help clean wounds and apply ointment. Foreman Xu Fugui and worker Zhang Da from Shandong, both with minor injuries, recuperate in the ward.
Li Jianxing and his subordinates go to the burn ward of the miners’ hospital to慰問 injured miners’ families and distribute慰問 money. As they leave, Jianxing says that due to high local mining costs and competition from imported coal, along with frequent accidents, he plans to shut down the mine. Although the staff are surprised and worried about unemployment, they express understanding and respect for his decision. Jianxing promises to provide as much severance pay as possible.
After returning home, Jianxing shares his plan with his wife and son. Aijiao asks what he will do after closing the mine. Jianxing says he plans to move to Taipei and build a hotel. Dongming says he does not want to leave Houtong. Jianxing assumes this is because he cannot bear to leave Jialing, and Dongming does not deny it. Jianxing encourages Dongming to study business in university, but Dongming does not respond, as it goes against his wishes, though he avoids arguing with his father.
Around noon, Dongming waits on a suspension bridge with an English dictionary, along the route Jialing takes to deliver meals to the health station. When Jialing arrives, he tells her about his father’s plan to close the mine and move away, and that his father wants him to study business, while his own dream is to become a film director. Jialing advises him to communicate with his father. Dongming says he read a short story written by Jialing in a newspaper supplement and believes it would make a deeply moving film.
Later, Jialing arrives at the health station with a pot of chicken soup. Even during the noon break, Renjie is still seeing patients. Jialing notices the dark circles under his eyes and urges him to rest more. While drinking the soup, Renjie asks Nurse Xiaofen when the new antivenom serum will arrive. Xiaofen says it will not be available until after the Lunar New Year.
Yang Tiansi brings home two fresh fish from the market. At the dinner table, he mentions that Jianxing Coal Mine will close by the end of the year. Jialing says Dongming has already revealed this news. Tianmei worries that as mines close, business at the eatery will decline. The couple discusses possibly moving away from Houtong.
Li Dongming waits outside the health station dormitory for Jialing to deliver a late-night meal, but Xu Congming is with her. The two rivals glare at each other and openly challenge one another. Renjie, inside the dormitory, overhears them and cannot help laughing.
Xu Congming returns home dejected. Xu Fugui, reading a magazine, notices his son’s low spirits and asks about his troubles. Congming asks whether his father has ever experienced heartbreak, then tells him about his agreement with Dongming. Fugui gently comforts him, saying that their family cannot compare with the Li family in wealth and encouraging him to focus on his studies and pass the university entrance exam first.
On the train to Keelung, Zhaodi notices Congming’s gloom and asks about it. Congming shares his worries, saying that Dongming has challenged him to compete fairly for Jialing. Zhaodi reassures him that Jialing is not a vain girl, and Yaqian agrees that Dongming, with his bad reputation, is not a worthy rival.
Continuous winter rain causes leaks throughout the Yang family’s wooden house. When the rain stops, Xu Fugui and his son come to help repair the roof. Fugui says he had intended to rebuild the house in brick, but worries the Yang family would have nowhere to live during construction. Tiansi and his wife thank the Xu family for their care over the years. Congming suggests that after rebuilding, the Xu family should continue to let the Yang family live there rent-free. Fugui agrees but tells his son to persuade Jialing first.
While accompanying Jialing and her siblings to deliver dinner, Congming tries to persuade her, but Jialing says that unless the Xu family charges rent after rebuilding the house, she and her father will not agree, because they have already received too much kindness from the Xu family. Congming fails to convince her and feels awkward.
At the health station, Jialing accompanies Jiaxiang into the examination room. After examination, Renjie confirms that Jiaxiang’s movements are indeed much more flexible than before, calling it a “miracle.”
Renjie asks about the roof repairs and proposes to provide money to buy a new house for the Yang family. Jialing understands that her brother wants to repay the Yang family’s kindness, but she politely refuses, saying her adoptive parents value their dignity. Instead, she urges Renjie to start a family soon.
Li Dongming catches a severe cold and goes to the health station. Zhao Renjie recognizes him and deliberately questions him. Dongming treats Renjie with hostility, even regarding him as a romantic rival, and is sternly warned by Renjie, leaving a poor impression. The next day, Dongming meets Jialing on the suspension bridge and asks why Doctor Zhao spoke to him so harshly. Jialing reveals that Renjie is her biological elder brother. Only then does Dongming realize he has unknowingly offended someone he should not have offended.
“The Miner’s Daughter” – Episode Story Outline
[Episode 3]
After school at the girls’ high school, Jialing is molested by two delinquent youths on a street near the school. Li Dongming happens to pass by in his car, drives the two youths away in time, and rescues Jialing from the situation. Dongming helps the badly frightened Jialing up and brushes the dust off her long skirt. Unfortunately, Xu Congming, who has come to look for Jialing, sees this scene from afar. Congming mistakenly thinks Dongming is bullying Jialing. He chases after them but still fails to stop Dongming’s car. On the mountain road back to Houtong, Dongming reminds Jialing to avoid being alone when shopping, and also asks when Jiaxiang will be discharged from the hospital. Dongming thanks Jialing’s parents for not filing a lawsuit in court over the incident in which he hit Jiaxiang, allowing him to avoid imprisonment. From that moment on, he realizes his past mistakes.
Xu Congming gathers several classmates from the taekwondo club and lies in ambush near Li Jianxing’s house. As expected, they intercept Li Dongming, who is about to return home. Congming steps forward to demand an explanation. Although Dongming explains that he helped Jialing when she was harassed by delinquents, Congming does not believe him. Congming and the others force Dongming into the house and complain directly to Jianxing, seeking justice. Dongming loudly protests his innocence. After hearing Dongming’s account, Jianxing believes it is reasonable and likely true. Congming also feels he may be in the wrong, so he apologizes in person and leaves.
Xu Congming accompanies Jialing to stroll at Keelung Miaokou Night Market, where they run into Li Dongming by chance. Dongming acts like a rich man and treats them to snacks at the market. Dongming is set up by Xu Congming; while eating meatballs, Dongming’s flirtatious remarks anger Jialing, and she slaps him and leaves in anger.
The next day, Congming has a stomachache. Jialing accompanies him to the health station. Zhao Renjie asks whether Congming ate something inappropriate. Congming then admits that he took advantage of Li Dongming at the night market the previous day. Renjie reminds them not to take advantage of others.
That night, Li Dongming waits at the entrance of Jialing’s alley with flowers and chocolate to apologize. Jialing goes out to deliver late-night food, and Dongming appears in time to apologize. Seeing his sincere remorse, Jialing forgives him. The two chat along the way to the dormitory outside the health station. Jialing accepts the flowers but politely refuses the chocolate. She then gives the flowers to her elder brother Zhao Renjie. Renjie, having seen the earlier scene, deliberately asks about the boy who gave the flowers and reminds Jialing that she should focus on her studies at this stage and not pursue romance. Jialing says she intends to become a doctor in the future and has no plans to marry. Renjie instead advises her not to adopt lifelong celibacy and even speaks well of Xu Congming, saying he is a good boy. Renjie also asks about Jiaxiang’s recovery. Jialing says that after brain surgery, Jiaxiang’s muscles are no longer as stiff as before and his movements are more flexible. Renjie finds it incredible and agrees that once Jiaxiang is discharged, Jialing should bring him to the health station for examination.
An explosion occurs in a tunnel at Jianxing Coal Mine, shocking the entire Houtong area. Li Jianxing leads office staff carrying tools into the mine to rescue the injured. Those with minor injuries are sent to the health station, while those seriously injured are transferred to the miners’ hospital. Fortunately, no miners are killed in this accident.
More than a dozen patients with burns and inhalation injuries flood into the health station. Dr. Zhao and Nurse Xiaofen instruct Li Jianxing and his staff to help clean wounds and apply ointment. Foreman Xu Fugui and worker Zhang Da from Shandong are lightly injured and recuperate in the ward.
Li Jianxing and his managers visit the burn ward at the miners’ hospital, offering慰问金 and condolences to injured miners’ families. As they leave, Jianxing says that due to high mining costs and competition from imported coal, as well as frequent accidents, he plans to close the mine. Though surprised and worried about unemployment, the managers express understanding and respect. Jianxing promises to provide as much severance pay as possible.
After returning home, Jianxing tells his wife and son his plan. Aijiao asks what he will do after closing the mine. Jianxing says he plans to move to Taipei and build a hotel. Dongming says he does not want to leave Houtong. Jianxing assumes it is because he cannot bear to leave Jialing, and Dongming does not deny it. Jianxing encourages Dongming to study business in university, but Dongming does not respond, as it goes against his wishes.
Around noon, Dongming waits for Jialing on the suspension bridge with an English dictionary. This is her route to the health station. He tells her about his father’s plan to close the mine and move, and that his own dream is to become a film director. Jialing advises him to communicate with his father. Dongming says he read Jialing’s short story in a newspaper supplement and believes it would make a touching film.
Jialing brings chicken soup to the health station. During the noon break, Renjie is still seeing patients. She notices the dark circles under his eyes and urges him to rest. While drinking the soup, Renjie asks Nurse Xiaofen when the new antivenom serum will arrive. She says the miners’ hospital replied that it will not arrive until after the Lunar New Year.
Yang Tiansi brings home two fresh fish and says that Jianxing Coal Mine will close by the end of the year. Jialing says Dongming already mentioned it. Tianmei worries that as mines close, business at the eatery will decline, and they consider moving away in the future.
Dongming waits outside the dormitory for Jialing, but Xu Congming is with her. The two rivals exchange heated words, each declaring he will not yield. Renjie overhears and laughs.
Xu Congming returns home dejected. Xu Fugui notices and asks about his worries. Congming asks if his father has ever experienced heartbreak and tells him about his agreement with Dongming. Fugui comforts him and advises him to focus on studies and pass the university entrance exam.
On the train to Keelung, Zhao Di notices Congming’s low spirits and asks about it. He confides that he and Dongming agreed to compete fairly for Jialing. Zhao Di reassures him that Jialing is not vain, and Xiao Yaqian adds that Dongming is no real competitor.
Continuous winter rain causes leaks in the Yang family’s wooden house. During a break in the rain, Xu Fugui and his son help repair the roof. Fugui says he considered rebuilding it in brick but worried the Yang family would have nowhere to stay during construction. The Yang family expresses gratitude. Congming suggests letting them live rent-free afterward, and Fugui agrees, but asks him to convince Jialing.
Congming tries to persuade Jialing while accompanying her to deliver dinner, but she refuses unless rent is charged, saying they have already received too much kindness. Congming fails again.
At the health station, Renjie examines Jiaxiang and confirms his improved mobility, calling it a miracle. Renjie offers to buy a new house for the Yang family, but Jialing declines, saying her adoptive parents value dignity. She instead reminds Renjie to start a family soon.
Li Dongming visits the health station for a cold. Renjie recognizes him and questions him indirectly. Dongming treats him unfriendly and even regards him as a romantic rival. Renjie sternly warns him, leaving a poor impression. The next day, Dongming meets Jialing on the bridge and asks why Renjie spoke harshly. Jialing reveals Renjie is her elder brother. Dongming realizes he has offended the wrong person.
[Episode 4]
On New Year’s Eve, You Tianmei instructs Jialing to go to the health station and invite Zhao Renjie to come over for the reunion dinner. Tiansi also says it will be livelier that way. Jialing goes to the health station and sees patients lining up outside, only then realizing that consultations are continuing as usual today and that Brother Renjie is not taking a break. Jialing conveys her parents’ invitation. Renjie says that Nurse Xiaofen also invited him earlier to her home for the reunion dinner after work, but he has always been accustomed to spending holidays alone and does not like to trouble others. Jialing says that in that case she can come over to keep her elder brother company through the night. Nurse Xiaofen also says that after eating her New Year’s Eve dinner she will come to the health station, so they can chat the whole night.
Xu Congming goes to find Jialing and wants to invite her to watch a movie. Jialing says she is going to the health station to keep her elder brother company through the night, and Congming immediately changes his mind and wants to come along. Congming rides his bicycle carrying Jialing to the dormitory at the health station. Nurse Xiaofen has also just arrived. The four of them listen to music, eat braised snacks, and play the game “picking red dots.” It is the first time Congming realizes that Jialing has never even played this game before.
On the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year, the four of them go together to stroll along Pingxi Old Street and eat some local traditional snacks. On a whim, Congming gambles for sausages with a sausage vendor using a marble game and wins only one out of three rounds. The four of them then go to play ring toss, and Renjie, with his long arms and legs, wins the most.
Late at night, the miner Old Shandong Zhang Da and Huang Dachuan drink together. Old Shandong urgently needs to urinate and goes to the bushes to relieve himself, but is accidentally bitten by a venomous snake. Huang Dachuan helps him to find foreman Xu Fugui. Congming says that at this moment they can only send him to the health station first, because Dr. Zhao must be in the dormitory. Xu Fugui drives the two of them to the health station. With Zhang Da’s consent, Renjie performs emergency treatment and injects expired antivenom serum, saving Zhang Da’s life.
On the second day of the Lunar New Year, Tianmei and Jialing, mother and daughter, go to the Heavenly God Temple to offer incense and pray for blessings. While the two are burning joss paper in the pavilion, they are blocked by three local hooligans—A-hou, Gongwan, and Tuniu. These three used to hang out with Li Dongming, but since Dongming is preparing to retake the university entrance exam, he has not been in contact with them for a long time. A-hou hears that Jialing is the girl Dongming likes, so he deliberately teases Jialing in order to demonstrate against Dongming. Tuniu is honest and timid but is still led by A-hou and Gongwan. Just as A-hou and Gongwan are about to molest Jialing, Xu Fugui’s family happens to arrive at the temple. The father and son immediately get out of the car to rescue Tianmei and Jialing. Congming, who practices taekwondo, kicks Gongwan to the ground with one strike, and Fugui, holding a shoulder pole, sweeps across A-hou’s waist and abdomen, knocking him down instantly. Onlookers, seeing the three hooligans being taught a lesson, applaud and cheer. Congming says that these three are subordinates of the Li family’s young master and plans to gather friends that evening to go to Li Jianxing’s house to demand an explanation. Xu Fugui also cannot tolerate it and, ignoring his wife Youxiu’s advice that Jianxing is his boss, decides to accompany Congming.
Gongwan and Tuniu support the injured A-hou and go to Li Jianxing’s house to find Dongming. Seeing the three beaten, Dongming asks what happened and suspects that A-hou is lying to conceal the truth. As his father Jianxing comes downstairs, Dongming does not want his father to see the three again, so he gives them some money first and tells them to take A-hou to see a doctor. A-hou is supported by Gongwan and Tuniu to the health station. By coincidence, Dachuan is accompanying Zhang Da there to change his dressing. Seeing that there is a doctor at the health station, the three enter the consultation room. Renjie examines A-hou by palpation and takes an X-ray for him.
Xu Fugui and his son, along with Congming’s taekwondo club classmates, once again go to Jianxing’s house to demand an explanation. Jianxing sternly questions his son Dongming about whether he instructed A-hou and the other two to molest the Yang family’s mother and daughter. Dongming loudly protests his innocence, saying he has no motive to do such a thing, and strongly denies any relationship with the three. His mother Aijiao also testifies on his behalf, saying that recently Dongming seldom goes out after work and mostly stays home preparing his studies. Jianxing sternly warns Dongming that if he is found to have any further contact with the three, he will lock him in a dog cage. With this assurance, Fugui and his son believe their objective has been achieved, and the group leaves the Li family satisfied. Dongming is furious that A-hou lied and concealed the harassment of Jialing, and immediately decides to find the three to “talk things out.”
Dongming goes to the Earth God Temple to find A-hou and the other two and scolds them for daring to harass Jialing. Tuniu says it was A-hou’s idea. A-hou wants to settle the score with the Xu father and son, but Dongming forbids him from causing further trouble. Dongming asks where they went for medical treatment. Gongwan says they went to the nearby health station because other hospitals were not seeing outpatients on the second day of the New Year. Dongming tells the three to reform themselves and decides to invest in opening a photography studio, letting them learn skills under a master and run a business. He then informs them that Dr. Zhao at the health station is actually Jialing’s elder brother, and warns that if Dr. Zhao finds out that they were the ones who harassed his sister, they will suffer serious consequences. Finally, Dongming tells them that the Xu father and son went to complain, causing him to be severely warned by his father, and tells them to exercise restraint and not cause him further trouble. Under Dongming’s combination of firmness and persuasion, the three decide to reform and follow him in starting a business.
In early August, the university joint entrance examination results are released, and the admission notice arrives at Li Jianxing’s home. Jianxing opens it and only then discovers that his son Dongming secretly applied to the Department of Mass Communication. After being calmed by his wife Aijiao, who says that having a school to attend is good enough and better than continuing to associate with hooligans, Jianxing no longer pursues the matter. Dongming deliberately waits outside the health station for Jialing and tells her that he has been admitted to his desired department and will soon go to Taipei to study. Dongming says that during holidays he will often come back to visit her. Jialing reminds him that after entering university, he will have many opportunities to meet more girls and advises him to focus on his studies.
Jialing brings dinner to the health station and discovers that her elder brother Renjie seems extremely tired. Renjie does not want Jialing and Xiaofen to worry, so he deliberately downplays the issue and pretends that his body is fine. Late at night, Jialing brings a late-night meal to the dormitory and sees Renjie lying face down on the desk asleep, but no matter how she calls him, he does not wake up. She quickly calls Xu Congming and asks for his help.
Yang Tiansi’s family and Wang Xiaofen are all in the ward of the miners’ hospital accompanying Zhao Renjie. When the doctor makes rounds, Tiansi asks about Renjie’s condition. Based on Renjie’s symptoms, the doctor judges it to be chronic leukemia, commonly known as “blood cancer.” The Yang family is filled with worry. Tiansi asks whether there is any treatment method. The doctor tells him that the patient must find a donor with matching genes for bone marrow transplantation, but the probability is not high. Jialing realizes that this explains why her elder brother’s health has been worsening day by day. She immediately decides to try, perhaps she can save her elder brother. Thus, Jialing takes the initiative to find the attending physician, stating her blood relationship with the patient and her willingness to donate bone marrow. Xiaofen blames herself for not taking good care of Renjie. Jialing comforts her, saying that her elder brother deliberately concealed his illness and therefore did not dare to accept Xiaofen’s feelings. Only then does Xiaofen suddenly understand and forgive Renjie. Jialing goes to the attending physician to explain her intention. The doctor first draws her blood for examination and asks her to wait for the genetic matching results. Jialing and Renjie are successively sent into the operating room. Jialing donates part of her bone marrow, and the doctor successfully completes the transplant surgery for Renjie.
[Episode 5]
In the hospital ward, as the anesthesia in Renjie’s body gradually wore off, he slowly regained consciousness. He overheard the conversation between Tianci and his wife and the attending physician. The doctor said that Yang Jialing’s bone marrow could save Zhao Renjie, indicating that the two were very likely biological siblings of the same bloodline, and Jialing had already informed Tianci of this beforehand. Tianci and his wife felt both joy and worry about the siblings recognizing each other. Tianmei recalled that Jialing personally cooked late-night meals every evening and delivered them to the health station for Renjie, and she speculated that the two might have already recognized each other. Tianmei whispered this to Tianci, who believed that it was ultimately a good thing for the siblings to reunite. However, Tianmei worried that Renjie might take Jialing away. At this moment, Renjie spoke, saying that he was not ungrateful, that he would not take Jialing away, and that Jialing would always be the daughter of the Yang family. Only then did Tianmei feel relieved.
After recovering and being discharged from the hospital, Renjie returned to the health station, where both inside and outside were filled with flower baskets and condolence cards sent by patients and their families. Xu Congming and Yang Jialing prepared a large cake to celebrate Renjie’s rebirth at the health station. Seizing the opportunity, Jialing pressed Renjie to get a sister-in-law. Unable to resist, Renjie proposed on the spot to Nurse Wang Xiaofen.
Dr. Zhao Renjie’s wedding became a major event in Ruifang Town. The town mayor, Li Jincai, personally attended to officiate and give a speech. After the mayor’s speech, the sound of firecrackers rang out, and the newlyweds completed the ceremony amid the blessings of relatives and friends. Li Dongming squeezed into the crowd, his eyes never leaving Yang Jialing beside the bride.
In the middle of the night, Xu Congming got up to drink water and saw that across the way at the Yang household, the light in Jialing’s bedroom was still on. Under the light, Jialing was still studying. Congming thought to himself that Jialing was truly hardworking.
Early in the morning, Jialing, Congming, Zhaodi, and Yaqian were waiting for the train on the platform. Seeing Jialing glowing with happiness, Zhaodi asked whether she had been influenced by her elder brother’s marriage. Jialing said that her brother had finally come through hardship into happiness. Knowing that Jialing often stayed up late studying, Congming worried that her body might not be able to endure it and asked with concern. Jialing said that she would take a short nap first every day and then get up to study. After boarding the train, Jialing leaned against the back of the seat and took a nap. Xu Congming quietly watched her as she slept, his eyes full of affection.
On the weekend, Li Dongming drove to Ruyi Eatery to look for Jialing and encountered the miners Huang Dachuan and Zhang Da. From Dongming’s words, the two confirmed that the coal mine would be closed and operations would cease at the beginning of next year. Dongming invited Jialing to watch a movie, but she politely declined. Dongming said he was worried that after moving away from Houtong, he would not be able to come often to see her. Jialing reminded him that he should instead find someone of equal social standing, so he would not need to waste time and energy on her.
Two years later, Yang Jialing was admitted to the Department of Medicine at National Taiwan University. The news quickly caused a sensation throughout Ruifang, as a girl being admitted to NTU’s medical school was unprecedented in the town. Villagers came one after another to the Yang household to offer congratulations. Tianci and Tianmei prepared several large basins of oil rice and meat thick soup to entertain the visiting neighbors. In contrast, at the Xu household across the way, although Xu Congming had also been admitted to NTU, only a sparse number of relatives and friends came to congratulate, forming a stark contrast.
Jialing brought her NTU medical school admission notice to the health station to show her elder brother and sister-in-law. When Renjie saw the notice, tears welled up in his eyes. Holding Jialing’s hand, he said that he had finally waited for this day. Renjie then handed a bankbook to Jialing. The siblings pushed it back and forth, and only after Xiaofen’s persuasion did Jialing accept her elder brother’s goodwill.
Xu Congming rode a brand-new motorcycle to the doctor’s dormitory at the health station and encountered Jialing, Zhaodi, and his romantic rival Li Dongming. Congming wanted to invite Jialing to watch a movie, but Dongming beat him to it. Knowing that Jialing and Zhaodi were going on an outing in Dongming’s car, Congming left awkwardly.
After returning home, Congming looked dejected. His parents, Fugui and his wife, asked about the reason. It was because Li Dongming had appeared again. Fugui deliberately asked his son whether he liked Jialing, and after confirming it, said that they would go to the Yang household to propose marriage.
Dongming drove Jialing and Zhaodi to “Dongming Photography Studio,” which he had opened in Ruifang Town. He said that after completing military service, he would establish a film company and use Ruifang’s coal mines as the background to film the story of Jialing and her elder brother’s reunion.
Afterward, at the photography studio, Jialing encountered Ah Hou and Gongwan, who had bullied her two years earlier. Ah Hou apologized to Jialing. Dongming said that the three of them had learned skills from their master Ade and had already reformed, now running a wedding photography business. Jialing highly affirmed Dongming’s business acumen in grasping future trends. The three then went to Shimen Cave, where Dongming explained its natural formation, and they played and took photos by the seaside.
Xu Fugui’s family brought gift boxes to the Yang household to propose marriage but were politely refused by Jialing, who said she did not intend to marry so that she could care for her brother Jiaxiang, who had cerebral palsy. To avoid awkwardness, Tianci changed the topic to discuss their respective plans after the coal mines in Ruifang gradually ceased operations. Fugui said he planned to purchase old miners’ dormitories, renovate and redecorate them, and open a guesthouse, but he worried that there would be no tourists to stay.
A few nights later, deep at night, the Yang family’s wooden plank house caught fire due to an electrical short circuit. Fortunately, Jialing woke from her sleep, first rousing her younger siblings to escape, and urgently called Congming for help, enabling them to rescue their parents, who had already fainted from smoke inhalation.
After work hours, in the consultation room of the health station, Renjie and Xiaofen were tidying up equipment. Renjie suggested to Xiaofen that there should be a house to provide shelter for the Yang family. After discussion, the two decided to buy a piece of land and build two houses. Xiaofen proactively offered to contribute her savings, and if it was not enough, they would take out a bank loan.
Xu Fugui’s family went to the hospital ward at the health station to visit Tianci’s family. Tianci apologized to Fugui, saying he had burned down the wooden house. Fugui also apologized, saying the house was old and the electrical wiring had caused the fire, nearly endangering the Yang family. Tianmei proposed to compensate the Xu family for the loss, but Youxiu declined. Renjie presented his plan of buying land and building two houses, and also said that during this period the Yang family could temporarily stay in the dormitory. Fugui expressed willingness to sell the land of the wooden house to Renjie at a low price so they could continue being neighbors. Jialing expressed her wish to live together with her elder brother and sister-in-law. Tianci and his wife said they could understand her feelings.
The issue could not be decided immediately, and Renjie said they would wait until Tianci and his wife discussed it before making a decision.
Renjie and Xiaofen dined together with the Yang family in the dormitory. Tianmei decided that since most miners had already left Houtong and business could not continue, she would no longer run the eatery. Tianci said that he and Tianmei were worried about what business to pursue in the future. Renjie suggested that the Yang family consider moving to Jiufen or Jinguashi, where tourism had recently increased due to “A City of Sadness,” making it more feasible to do business there. Tianmei agreed with the suggestion, thinking they could move to Jiufen and continue running an eatery, but Tianci reminded her that they did not have the capital to buy a property and open a shop. Renjie and Xiaofen proactively offered to lend Tianci money to purchase property and start a business. Renjie asked Tianci and his wife to take time to go to Jiufen to select suitable storefronts and asked Xiaofen to bring out a camera to lend to Tianci so he could take photos of several suitable shops for discussion.
Xu Congming came to the health station to find Jialing. Jialing told him that her family would soon move to Jiufen to open a shop. Besides feeling reluctant, Congming also felt a sense of loss. Jialing comforted him by saying that Jiufen was not far from Houtong and he could visit often. Congming said he was used to waking up every day and seeing Jialing, and that he had begun to miss the beautiful times they had spent together.
Xu Fugui’s family, Yang Tianci’s family, and Dr. Zhao Renjie gathered at Houtong Railway Station to bid farewell to Xu Congming and Yang Jialing, the two prospective university students who were about to go to Taipei to study. Not far away, Li Dongming stood beside his car, craning his neck to gaze at Jialing.
