1 00:00:08,160 --> 00:00:09,690 This is the permit to take the ship. 2 00:00:09,800 --> 00:00:10,800 Go. 3 00:00:11,440 --> 00:00:12,880 I won't drag you into this again. 4 00:00:17,080 --> 00:00:18,640 Let's never see each other again. 5 00:00:38,580 --> 00:00:40,790 You've cast loyalty aside, but what about filial piety? 6 00:00:41,120 --> 00:00:44,140 You're drowning yourself in sorrow and torment. 7 00:00:44,320 --> 00:00:46,110 Will His Grace rest in peace knowing this? 8 00:00:47,480 --> 00:00:49,050 The dead are like extinguished lamps. 9 00:00:50,720 --> 00:00:51,840 He wouldn't know anymore. 10 00:00:55,200 --> 00:00:56,330 You're not as good as him. 11 00:00:57,120 --> 00:00:58,200 No, I'm not. 12 00:01:15,200 --> 00:01:16,200 Your Grace, 13 00:01:17,720 --> 00:01:20,110 you were the Grand General of Futing's army and its people. 14 00:01:20,480 --> 00:01:22,880 The comfort and prosperity I've enjoyed 15 00:01:23,800 --> 00:01:24,800 are thanks to you. 16 00:01:26,039 --> 00:01:27,560 You fought with your life 17 00:01:28,320 --> 00:01:29,490 to protect Futing's lands 18 00:01:30,320 --> 00:01:32,210 and bring peace to its people. 19 00:01:33,240 --> 00:01:34,240 Thank you. 20 00:01:34,640 --> 00:01:35,640 May you rest in peace. 21 00:01:37,960 --> 00:01:40,900 His Majesty has killed the witnesses and closed the case with a decree. 22 00:01:41,640 --> 00:01:42,960 If I don't overthrow the throne, 23 00:01:43,039 --> 00:01:44,490 how else can I change any of this? 24 00:01:49,840 --> 00:01:52,080 Are your eyes only used to interrogate me? 25 00:01:53,520 --> 00:01:55,590 If His Majesty really wanted to frame Duke of Ding, 26 00:01:55,920 --> 00:01:58,520 would he have spared the Jiang family just because of a ruler? 27 00:01:59,360 --> 00:02:00,360 Trust me, 28 00:02:00,800 --> 00:02:02,360 His Majesty knows the truth. 29 00:02:03,120 --> 00:02:04,280 He only closed the case 30 00:02:04,480 --> 00:02:06,340 because the circumstances forced his hand. 31 00:02:09,800 --> 00:02:11,360 And I'm just supposed to swallow my shame and hatred, 32 00:02:11,440 --> 00:02:13,080 return to court, and climb the ranks like nothing happened? 33 00:02:13,840 --> 00:02:16,240 You've spent years away from the capital. 34 00:02:16,350 --> 00:02:18,390 You don't know much about the current political landscape. 35 00:02:18,520 --> 00:02:19,720 How can you hope to overturn the case 36 00:02:19,800 --> 00:02:21,840 when the enemy hides in the shadows and you're completely exposed? 37 00:02:21,920 --> 00:02:23,360 Right now, not only are all leads cut off, 38 00:02:23,920 --> 00:02:26,640 but your ambition, resolve, and very nature 39 00:02:26,800 --> 00:02:27,960 are known throughout the court. 40 00:02:28,030 --> 00:02:29,680 You're like an unsheathed blade, 41 00:02:29,760 --> 00:02:31,690 its sharpness glaringly obvious for all to see. 42 00:02:32,240 --> 00:02:33,640 Don't you see? The true strength of a blade 43 00:02:33,720 --> 00:02:35,430 isn't in striking, but in restraint. 44 00:02:35,720 --> 00:02:37,640 Only by sheathing the blade, 45 00:02:38,360 --> 00:02:39,480 by concealing your edge, 46 00:02:39,720 --> 00:02:41,400 can you observe the bigger picture 47 00:02:41,840 --> 00:02:43,570 and decide your next move with clarity. 48 00:03:00,280 --> 00:03:02,030 Duke of Ding fought hard with his life 49 00:03:02,760 --> 00:03:04,440 to protect Futing's lands 50 00:03:05,120 --> 00:03:06,450 and ensure peace for its people. 51 00:03:06,640 --> 00:03:08,280 He doesn't live on just in your heart, 52 00:03:09,360 --> 00:03:11,230 he lives in the hearts of everyone in Futing. 53 00:03:12,400 --> 00:03:13,520 Everything you say, 54 00:03:14,240 --> 00:03:15,240 every move you make, 55 00:03:15,720 --> 00:03:17,400 carries the legacy he passed on to you. 56 00:03:18,200 --> 00:03:19,200 Song Mo, 57 00:03:19,560 --> 00:03:20,560 listen to me, 58 00:03:21,680 --> 00:03:22,940 from this day forward, 59 00:03:23,440 --> 00:03:25,280 you are him. 60 00:05:03,530 --> 00:05:06,890 (Blossom) 61 00:05:07,320 --> 00:05:09,520 (Episode 11) 62 00:05:17,680 --> 00:05:18,880 My Lord, you're here! 63 00:05:22,280 --> 00:05:23,280 My Lord, 64 00:05:23,440 --> 00:05:24,490 I've gathered news 65 00:05:24,570 --> 00:05:26,130 from the palace regarding Duke of Ding. 66 00:05:29,720 --> 00:05:30,720 What did you hear? 67 00:05:31,160 --> 00:05:33,560 The eunuchs have been gossiping. 68 00:05:33,840 --> 00:05:36,640 They say His Majesty kept staring at the broken ruler and muttered nonsense, 69 00:05:36,720 --> 00:05:38,570 tormented by restless dreams night after night. 70 00:05:38,720 --> 00:05:40,960 The physicians and fortune-tellers are being summoned more frequently. 71 00:05:41,040 --> 00:05:43,720 It seems His Majesty feels guilty about you. 72 00:05:44,360 --> 00:05:45,610 Why not take advantage of it? 73 00:05:47,159 --> 00:05:48,920 Dou Zhao was right once again. 74 00:05:49,680 --> 00:05:51,280 If it wasn't for that broken ruler, 75 00:05:51,680 --> 00:05:53,620 the Jiang family might not have been spared. 76 00:05:54,640 --> 00:05:56,380 But how did she know that His Majesty, 77 00:05:57,120 --> 00:05:58,970 despite his regret over Duke of Ding's unjust death, 78 00:05:59,050 --> 00:06:00,940 would still feel compelled to close the case? 79 00:06:01,430 --> 00:06:03,100 Who could the mastermind possibly be, 80 00:06:03,520 --> 00:06:06,530 for even His Majesty to act against his own conscience to protect them? 81 00:06:07,840 --> 00:06:08,840 In a game of cards, 82 00:06:09,840 --> 00:06:11,210 sometimes you have to lose a hand 83 00:06:11,680 --> 00:06:13,160 to protect the bigger picture. 84 00:06:13,640 --> 00:06:14,640 For an emperor, 85 00:06:15,130 --> 00:06:16,370 the stakes are much higher, 86 00:06:16,520 --> 00:06:19,560 it's the entire court, the entire realm. 87 00:06:20,280 --> 00:06:21,280 During the southeastern typhoon, 88 00:06:21,560 --> 00:06:23,190 His Majesty sent the Crown Prince to lead 89 00:06:23,270 --> 00:06:24,640 the disaster relief and win public favor, 90 00:06:24,720 --> 00:06:27,610 but His Grace opposed it and took charge himself. 91 00:06:27,800 --> 00:06:30,040 Could it be that His Grace's refusal to support 92 00:06:30,200 --> 00:06:31,810 the Crown Prince provoked retaliation? 93 00:06:32,120 --> 00:06:33,330 Are you saying 94 00:06:34,960 --> 00:06:37,280 that His Majesty concealed the truth 95 00:06:38,260 --> 00:06:39,490 to protect the Crown Prince? 96 00:06:44,200 --> 00:06:46,090 When Duke of Ding was escorted to the capital, 97 00:06:46,400 --> 00:06:47,840 did the princes make any move? 98 00:06:48,240 --> 00:06:51,200 Only the Crown Prince and Prince Qing came to ask about it. 99 00:06:51,480 --> 00:06:52,820 There were no other movements. 100 00:06:55,800 --> 00:06:58,270 My Lord, we've got a problem at the Futing military camp! 101 00:07:06,960 --> 00:07:08,760 General hasn't returned. We can't disband. 102 00:07:09,040 --> 00:07:10,840 That's right, we can't disband! 103 00:07:12,480 --> 00:07:14,400 The damned court killed Grand General. 104 00:07:14,640 --> 00:07:15,830 Why should we remain loyal? 105 00:07:16,080 --> 00:07:18,280 Instead of enduring this humiliation... 106 00:07:18,400 --> 00:07:19,720 We might as well become bandits! 107 00:07:19,800 --> 00:07:20,960 Yes! Yes! 108 00:07:21,040 --> 00:07:22,040 Let's become bandits! 109 00:07:23,840 --> 00:07:25,120 Such talk will get you executed. 110 00:07:25,720 --> 00:07:27,000 Don't ever say it again. 111 00:07:27,480 --> 00:07:29,640 General! General! 112 00:07:29,720 --> 00:07:30,920 I've been stripped of my rank. 113 00:07:32,400 --> 00:07:33,740 I'm not your general anymore. 114 00:07:34,000 --> 00:07:35,000 I came to say goodbye. 115 00:07:35,960 --> 00:07:38,200 From now on, we go our separate ways 116 00:07:39,280 --> 00:07:40,280 and forge our own paths. 117 00:07:41,080 --> 00:07:43,159 General, we're soldiers. 118 00:07:43,240 --> 00:07:44,240 None of us fear death. 119 00:07:44,440 --> 00:07:46,240 Living as cowards, with no clarity or justice, 120 00:07:46,320 --> 00:07:47,720 would disgrace Grand General's spirit! 121 00:07:47,860 --> 00:07:49,380 We dream of avenging him! 122 00:07:49,560 --> 00:07:50,680 We'd gladly give our lives for it! 123 00:07:50,750 --> 00:07:53,360 If we knew who the murderer was, we'd have exacted revenge! 124 00:07:53,440 --> 00:07:55,640 General! 125 00:07:58,480 --> 00:08:00,480 If you still see me as your general, 126 00:08:01,840 --> 00:08:02,840 here's my order, 127 00:08:04,160 --> 00:08:06,840 Duke of Ding's Army is disbanded, effective immediately! 128 00:08:07,440 --> 00:08:08,440 What? 129 00:08:08,640 --> 00:08:09,640 Disband? 130 00:08:10,720 --> 00:08:13,480 Officers rank vice commander and above, follow me to the tent for a council. 131 00:08:15,360 --> 00:08:17,240 -I'm not going anywhere. -Me too. 132 00:08:20,200 --> 00:08:22,340 You all have shown unwavering loyalty to my uncle, 133 00:08:23,360 --> 00:08:25,000 so, I will not deceive you. 134 00:08:26,440 --> 00:08:27,800 Though the imperial judgment has been issued, 135 00:08:27,880 --> 00:08:29,500 the true mastermind remains at large. 136 00:08:30,020 --> 00:08:33,140 I intend to uncover the truth and take vengeance on the real killer. 137 00:08:33,400 --> 00:08:35,059 This path will be fraught with danger. 138 00:08:35,280 --> 00:08:37,760 From now on, you can no longer serve as soldiers in the open, 139 00:08:38,919 --> 00:08:40,549 but must serve as agents in the shadows. 140 00:08:42,520 --> 00:08:44,200 We knew you wouldn't abandon us! 141 00:08:45,320 --> 00:08:47,600 For over a decade, we've been stationed at the border, 142 00:08:47,920 --> 00:08:50,030 knowing little of the inner workings of the court. 143 00:08:50,320 --> 00:08:52,670 That ignorance has left us vulnerable to schemes time and again. 144 00:08:52,880 --> 00:08:55,240 Now, whether it's to overturn the case 145 00:08:55,880 --> 00:08:57,960 or preserve a remnant of Duke of Ding's Army, 146 00:08:58,760 --> 00:09:01,800 we must plant our eyes and ears within the court. 147 00:09:03,280 --> 00:09:05,080 General, just give the orders. 148 00:09:05,520 --> 00:09:06,520 Bring the wine! 149 00:09:10,240 --> 00:09:11,970 A force of 50,000 is too conspicuous. 150 00:09:12,480 --> 00:09:15,060 Select the 500 most elite soldiers to follow me to the capital. 151 00:09:15,360 --> 00:09:18,720 The rest will disperse as ordered, laying low to preserve our strength 152 00:09:19,960 --> 00:09:22,400 until the time comes to rise again. 153 00:09:23,160 --> 00:09:25,000 The 53,000 soldiers of Duke of Ding's Army 154 00:09:25,280 --> 00:09:27,670 are ready to go through hell and high water for this cause! 155 00:09:27,760 --> 00:09:30,280 Through hell and high water! 156 00:09:30,410 --> 00:09:32,280 -Drink! -Drink! 157 00:09:50,080 --> 00:09:51,620 (Futing, Miao family's warehouse) Stop fighting for it! 158 00:09:53,040 --> 00:09:54,520 We've just been released. 159 00:09:54,600 --> 00:09:56,200 We're victims in this too. 160 00:09:56,280 --> 00:09:58,400 The charges of colluding with the enemy have been cleared. 161 00:09:59,760 --> 00:10:01,800 What you're doing is outright robbery! 162 00:10:01,880 --> 00:10:04,640 -Don't take that way. -Please don't take that away! 163 00:10:04,720 --> 00:10:05,720 Mrs. Liu! 164 00:10:06,040 --> 00:10:07,240 You only invested 10 taels, 165 00:10:07,320 --> 00:10:09,960 but this bag of jewelry and jade is worth 50 or 60 taels! 166 00:10:10,080 --> 00:10:11,760 Your family didn't pay back the money on time, 167 00:10:11,840 --> 00:10:13,320 don't we deserve a little interest? 168 00:10:13,400 --> 00:10:14,400 Move! 169 00:10:19,360 --> 00:10:20,650 According to the law, 170 00:10:21,360 --> 00:10:22,600 breaking into a house to rob is a serious crime. 171 00:10:22,970 --> 00:10:24,000 Even if you fail, 172 00:10:24,120 --> 00:10:25,720 it's 20 lashes and three years of exile. 173 00:10:25,800 --> 00:10:26,800 If you do succeed, 174 00:10:27,160 --> 00:10:28,920 you're looking at either exile or the noose. 175 00:10:29,480 --> 00:10:32,180 And committing this in broad daylight? That makes it even worse. 176 00:10:36,840 --> 00:10:38,860 They owe us money. Isn't it only fair that we take what we're owed? 177 00:10:39,320 --> 00:10:40,560 Oh, is that so? 178 00:10:40,960 --> 00:10:42,160 Fair, you say? 179 00:10:42,760 --> 00:10:44,280 Is it also fair to smash things and hurt people? 180 00:10:45,520 --> 00:10:46,520 Hurting someone? 181 00:10:46,840 --> 00:10:48,630 The punishment for that is even harsher. 182 00:10:48,840 --> 00:10:50,840 What choice do we have? 183 00:10:52,000 --> 00:10:55,280 Our goods rotted away on those impounded ships. 184 00:10:55,360 --> 00:10:57,090 Everything we worked so hard for is gone! 185 00:10:57,560 --> 00:10:59,560 -That's right. -Yes. 186 00:11:06,800 --> 00:11:09,600 I am Dou Zhao, a daughter of the Dou family from the capital, 187 00:11:10,200 --> 00:11:11,830 and also the master of the Miao family. 188 00:11:12,520 --> 00:11:13,880 I will sign an agreement right now 189 00:11:14,320 --> 00:11:15,720 to settle this debt in ten days. 190 00:11:18,800 --> 00:11:20,720 This jade bracelet is a family heirloom, 191 00:11:21,240 --> 00:11:23,360 and I'll leave it with the authorities as collateral. 192 00:11:23,440 --> 00:11:25,960 I'll pay you back in ten days. 193 00:11:28,760 --> 00:11:30,040 That's your mother's keepsake. 194 00:11:30,350 --> 00:11:31,350 You can't! 195 00:11:34,760 --> 00:11:35,760 If you trust me, 196 00:11:36,310 --> 00:11:37,310 sign the agreement. 197 00:11:38,040 --> 00:11:39,040 If not, 198 00:11:39,480 --> 00:11:41,040 come with me to the authorities. 199 00:11:41,320 --> 00:11:43,070 Let's see who owes more, the Miao family, 200 00:11:43,280 --> 00:11:45,640 or you all with your looting, smashing, and injuries. 201 00:11:52,720 --> 00:11:53,720 I'll sign. 202 00:11:53,960 --> 00:11:54,960 Me too. 203 00:11:56,910 --> 00:11:57,910 Me as well. 204 00:12:10,390 --> 00:12:13,490 (Dou Zhao) 205 00:12:17,400 --> 00:12:18,400 Hang in there. 206 00:12:21,960 --> 00:12:23,520 Luckily, the wound isn't deep. 207 00:12:26,120 --> 00:12:27,120 Zhao, 208 00:12:27,880 --> 00:12:30,200 I can't let you pawn your bracelet for those people. 209 00:12:30,280 --> 00:12:32,280 You came all the way to Futing for me. 210 00:12:32,560 --> 00:12:33,920 I'm grateful to you. 211 00:12:34,200 --> 00:12:36,000 This is my burden to bear. 212 00:12:36,440 --> 00:12:37,660 I'll go to the pawnshop 213 00:12:37,840 --> 00:12:39,640 and sell the warehouse and store, 214 00:12:39,760 --> 00:12:41,300 whatever it takes to get your bracelet back. 215 00:12:41,380 --> 00:12:43,200 Pawnshops wouldn't recognize their true value. 216 00:12:43,520 --> 00:12:46,360 What's a store or warehouse compared to you? 217 00:12:47,560 --> 00:12:49,880 Why don't you just pawn yourself to me instead? 218 00:12:51,960 --> 00:12:53,560 That works too. 219 00:12:54,120 --> 00:12:56,160 At the going rate for a steward's wages, 220 00:12:56,240 --> 00:12:58,200 I'd need to work for you 221 00:12:59,120 --> 00:13:01,680 for 3,224 days. 222 00:13:02,080 --> 00:13:04,830 That's about eight or nine years, it should be enough to pay it off. 223 00:13:05,680 --> 00:13:06,680 I'm kidding. 224 00:13:07,920 --> 00:13:10,750 If my mother knew her bracelet was being put to such good use, 225 00:13:10,920 --> 00:13:12,160 she'd be thrilled. 226 00:13:13,040 --> 00:13:14,040 Don't worry about it. 227 00:13:14,480 --> 00:13:16,000 I'm the richest person in Zhending, 228 00:13:16,120 --> 00:13:18,090 do you really think I can't get a bracelet back? 229 00:13:26,760 --> 00:13:29,280 Here it says the six-percent interest was supposed to cover goods purchased, 230 00:13:29,360 --> 00:13:30,680 but the accounts don't add up. 231 00:13:31,120 --> 00:13:32,120 Where are the goods? 232 00:13:34,040 --> 00:13:36,760 I invested it as stock in a food shop. 233 00:13:38,680 --> 00:13:40,630 Investing in a food shop during a famine year? 234 00:13:40,880 --> 00:13:42,160 Brilliant move, 235 00:13:42,600 --> 00:13:44,880 turning gold into dust. 236 00:13:45,440 --> 00:13:47,040 We still have An Su's dowry, don't we? 237 00:13:47,120 --> 00:13:48,280 You good-for-nothing! 238 00:13:48,640 --> 00:13:49,960 Stop eyeing your sister's dowry. 239 00:13:50,520 --> 00:13:52,320 She's of marrying age, 240 00:13:52,470 --> 00:13:54,550 how is she supposed to get married without money? 241 00:13:55,400 --> 00:13:57,080 What about An Ping then? 242 00:13:57,240 --> 00:13:58,960 An Ping is sitting for the imperial exam this year. 243 00:13:59,040 --> 00:14:00,840 Are you going to let him beg his way there? 244 00:14:01,600 --> 00:14:04,760 If it means paying off the debt, then so be it, 245 00:14:05,320 --> 00:14:06,320 dowry or no dowry. 246 00:14:07,120 --> 00:14:10,200 My dowry exists thanks to Zhao's kindness. 247 00:14:11,000 --> 00:14:12,000 And now I'll use it 248 00:14:12,400 --> 00:14:14,280 to settle the debt and spare her from trouble. 249 00:14:17,000 --> 00:14:18,230 It's not just for An Ping. 250 00:14:18,320 --> 00:14:20,400 An Su, are you really fine with it? 251 00:14:21,520 --> 00:14:22,520 I'm not. 252 00:14:26,760 --> 00:14:27,760 Zhao. 253 00:14:29,240 --> 00:14:30,760 There's still a lot of goods on the ship. 254 00:14:30,840 --> 00:14:32,150 Have you taken inventory? 255 00:14:32,640 --> 00:14:33,640 Things just settled down, 256 00:14:33,880 --> 00:14:36,110 and the local authorities in Futing are still in chaos. 257 00:14:36,250 --> 00:14:37,960 I haven't had the chance to do it yet. 258 00:14:40,680 --> 00:14:42,680 (Dou's Residence) 259 00:14:42,760 --> 00:14:43,760 Shi Shu, 260 00:14:43,920 --> 00:14:46,090 Ying Xue insisted 261 00:14:46,170 --> 00:14:47,950 I ask about Ming and De Zhen's engagement. 262 00:14:48,080 --> 00:14:51,320 She said if we have my father-in-law mediate, 263 00:14:51,840 --> 00:14:53,870 Grand Secretary Wu might agree. 264 00:15:00,080 --> 00:15:01,800 -A letter from Mu Chuan? -He has just risen 265 00:15:01,880 --> 00:15:03,880 to the Grand Secretariat. 266 00:15:04,240 --> 00:15:06,890 Most of the old allies of Duke of Ding in the previous administration 267 00:15:07,080 --> 00:15:08,480 have retired to their hometowns. 268 00:15:09,000 --> 00:15:11,400 Wu Yi Fen is advanced in years. 269 00:15:12,440 --> 00:15:13,830 How much longer can he hold on? 270 00:15:16,000 --> 00:15:17,240 What are you trying to say? 271 00:15:18,280 --> 00:15:20,880 That faction's influence is fading fast. 272 00:15:21,320 --> 00:15:22,480 The Wu family's standing 273 00:15:23,560 --> 00:15:24,600 will inevitably collapse. 274 00:15:26,400 --> 00:15:28,370 Is there still a point to form ties with them? 275 00:15:29,920 --> 00:15:31,490 You should have Ying Xue focus on 276 00:15:32,480 --> 00:15:34,750 strengthening connections with the Wei family instead. 277 00:15:37,170 --> 00:15:39,600 (Cui's Residence) 278 00:15:46,640 --> 00:15:47,640 Come. 279 00:15:52,400 --> 00:15:54,560 Now that you've delivered the gifts, you can go. 280 00:15:54,640 --> 00:15:56,200 If you stay longer and catch the illness, 281 00:15:56,280 --> 00:15:57,470 you'll blame it on Shou Gu again. 282 00:15:58,840 --> 00:16:01,160 It's rude to kick people out right after receiving gifts. 283 00:16:01,880 --> 00:16:03,880 Even if Young Lady Zhao isn't up to seeing guests, 284 00:16:04,140 --> 00:16:06,580 she could at least say thank you. 285 00:16:08,920 --> 00:16:10,480 This is the Dou family's business. 286 00:16:10,840 --> 00:16:12,880 Shouldn't you consider your identity first 287 00:16:12,960 --> 00:16:15,760 if you want to meddle? 288 00:16:15,920 --> 00:16:17,760 -I'll have you know... -Can I meddle then? 289 00:16:19,360 --> 00:16:20,360 Grandmother. 290 00:16:21,480 --> 00:16:24,440 You're causing trouble here in broad day light. 291 00:16:25,520 --> 00:16:26,640 In all these years, 292 00:16:27,110 --> 00:16:29,150 you've barely delivered gifts during festivals. 293 00:16:29,610 --> 00:16:31,530 Now that both Shou Gu and I are unwell, 294 00:16:32,520 --> 00:16:34,200 what are you scheming? 295 00:16:35,200 --> 00:16:36,640 Mother, you've misunderstood. 296 00:16:37,040 --> 00:16:39,240 I heard that Zhao came down with smallpox, 297 00:16:39,400 --> 00:16:42,160 so I specially went to the temple to get a smallpox protection statue. 298 00:16:42,240 --> 00:16:43,840 This isn't like other gifts, 299 00:16:44,240 --> 00:16:46,840 it must be personally enshrined by Zhao herself, 300 00:16:47,330 --> 00:16:49,290 or it won't be effective. 301 00:16:50,160 --> 00:16:53,080 Guardian idols and deities? I've never believed in these things. 302 00:16:53,290 --> 00:16:54,330 Take it all away. 303 00:16:54,440 --> 00:16:55,800 That won't do, Mother. 304 00:16:56,120 --> 00:16:58,040 Inviting the gods is easy, but sending them away is difficult. 305 00:16:58,130 --> 00:16:59,450 Neglecting the statue 306 00:16:59,790 --> 00:17:01,350 could harm the family's fortune. 307 00:17:01,650 --> 00:17:04,849 I'm sure Zhao wouldn't want that to happen, would she? 308 00:17:05,920 --> 00:17:07,700 Young Lady Zhao, just show yourself... 309 00:17:09,680 --> 00:17:10,680 Stop! 310 00:17:11,200 --> 00:17:12,800 Smallpox patients must avoid drafts. 311 00:17:12,880 --> 00:17:13,880 Cover her up at once. 312 00:17:14,319 --> 00:17:15,319 Yes, Grandmother. 313 00:17:16,319 --> 00:17:18,440 Fine, I'll accept these gifts on Shou Gu's behalf. 314 00:17:18,520 --> 00:17:20,680 I'm sure things are busy for you in the capital, 315 00:17:20,770 --> 00:17:21,920 so I won't keep you. 316 00:17:22,000 --> 00:17:23,839 If there's nothing else, you should leave, 317 00:17:24,569 --> 00:17:26,849 and don't come back again. 318 00:17:27,200 --> 00:17:28,200 Old Madam, 319 00:17:28,400 --> 00:17:30,640 our mistress only came with the best intentions. 320 00:17:30,720 --> 00:17:31,720 Nanny Zhou. 321 00:17:33,080 --> 00:17:36,520 Please pass the statue to Zhao, Mother. 322 00:17:37,000 --> 00:17:38,720 We'll take our leave now. 323 00:18:01,200 --> 00:18:02,720 -Move. -Grandmother... 324 00:18:03,040 --> 00:18:04,040 Move! 325 00:18:09,370 --> 00:18:10,370 What's going on? 326 00:18:12,000 --> 00:18:13,080 Shou Gu... 327 00:18:13,840 --> 00:18:15,680 She went to freshen up. She'll be back soon. 328 00:18:15,960 --> 00:18:18,400 At this point, you can stop covering for her. 329 00:18:20,160 --> 00:18:21,800 Shou Gu is in Futing. 330 00:18:25,560 --> 00:18:27,480 Futing is a highly sensitive area right now. 331 00:18:27,800 --> 00:18:29,000 What's she doing there? 332 00:18:29,440 --> 00:18:30,440 Does... 333 00:18:31,150 --> 00:18:33,270 Does she have something to do with the case too? 334 00:18:33,440 --> 00:18:36,090 The Maritime Trade Office seized the Miao family's merchant ship. 335 00:18:36,240 --> 00:18:39,840 Shou Gu was worried about An Su going alone, so she... 336 00:18:41,480 --> 00:18:43,160 Ridiculous! 337 00:18:44,400 --> 00:18:46,240 You girls... Absolutely ridiculous! 338 00:18:46,320 --> 00:18:47,320 Alright now, alright. 339 00:18:47,560 --> 00:18:50,180 Madam, are we leaving already? Shouldn't we take a closer look? 340 00:18:50,480 --> 00:18:51,800 Didn't you notice just now? 341 00:18:52,320 --> 00:18:54,640 That hand was smooth and flawless. 342 00:18:55,400 --> 00:18:58,240 If she really had smallpox, how could there not be any rash? 343 00:18:59,600 --> 00:19:01,960 Our trip here wasn't wasted after all. 344 00:19:03,800 --> 00:19:05,440 Ah, I see. 345 00:19:05,880 --> 00:19:07,320 Let's go back to the capital. 346 00:19:09,560 --> 00:19:11,880 Zhao is brazen and reckless. 347 00:19:12,080 --> 00:19:13,720 As a young lady from a noble family, 348 00:19:13,800 --> 00:19:15,320 she not only shows her face in public, 349 00:19:15,400 --> 00:19:17,280 she even went to Futing on her own. 350 00:19:18,000 --> 00:19:22,040 Futing is in chaos right now because of Duke of Ding's case. 351 00:19:22,320 --> 00:19:24,800 I hear there have been outbreaks of unrest among refugees lately. 352 00:19:24,900 --> 00:19:25,900 Oh, Zhao... 353 00:19:27,120 --> 00:19:28,280 Master, Madam, 354 00:19:28,360 --> 00:19:29,680 the Marquis of Jining's family 355 00:19:29,800 --> 00:19:32,400 has invited you both 356 00:19:32,580 --> 00:19:34,460 and the young ladies to a banquet tomorrow. 357 00:19:34,720 --> 00:19:36,480 We can't possibly attend a banquet now. 358 00:19:37,240 --> 00:19:38,840 Since it's a specially arranged banquet, 359 00:19:38,920 --> 00:19:40,600 they might want to discuss the betrothal. 360 00:19:41,690 --> 00:19:42,690 Decline it. 361 00:19:42,820 --> 00:19:44,790 We'll talk about it after I bring Shou Gu back. 362 00:19:44,870 --> 00:19:46,250 Someone, prepare the carriage. 363 00:19:46,720 --> 00:19:47,960 We mustn't decline it, my dear. 364 00:19:49,260 --> 00:19:52,180 If word of Zhao went to Futing gets out, 365 00:19:52,800 --> 00:19:56,960 not just her own marriage prospect, it will ruin Ming's too. 366 00:19:58,200 --> 00:20:00,240 How about we say 367 00:20:00,750 --> 00:20:02,590 you and the girls have caught a cold, 368 00:20:02,780 --> 00:20:04,220 and I'll attend the banquet alone? 369 00:20:06,680 --> 00:20:08,560 Fine, I'll leave it to you. 370 00:20:09,210 --> 00:20:10,210 Handle it as you see fit. 371 00:20:10,440 --> 00:20:11,440 I should get going. 372 00:20:11,840 --> 00:20:12,840 Yes, my dear. 373 00:20:19,480 --> 00:20:20,920 This side dish is quite unique. 374 00:20:23,000 --> 00:20:24,160 Is it a specialty of Futing? 375 00:20:25,480 --> 00:20:26,670 I found a lot of spoiled food 376 00:20:26,980 --> 00:20:28,580 when we were clearing out the inventory. 377 00:20:28,880 --> 00:20:30,760 But there was a crate of tubers from the West that hadn't gone bad. 378 00:20:30,830 --> 00:20:32,910 I roasted a few of them. 379 00:20:33,560 --> 00:20:35,600 They're soft, fragrant, 380 00:20:36,440 --> 00:20:37,560 and a bit like yam. 381 00:20:38,080 --> 00:20:39,560 But many of them have sprouted. 382 00:20:39,760 --> 00:20:41,680 We can't eat or sell them anymore. 383 00:20:43,120 --> 00:20:44,200 We can't eat them... 384 00:20:45,980 --> 00:20:47,060 But we can plant them! 385 00:20:48,910 --> 00:20:51,880 If they sprout even in the damp, dark conditions of a ship's hold, 386 00:20:52,080 --> 00:20:53,840 they must be easy to grow. 387 00:20:54,950 --> 00:20:57,150 If you plant them now, 388 00:20:57,670 --> 00:20:59,590 you could have a harvest in about three months. 389 00:21:00,720 --> 00:21:03,720 So, don't rush to repay me just yet. 390 00:21:04,110 --> 00:21:06,920 Use it to rent some unused land and start planting. 391 00:21:07,360 --> 00:21:08,640 With all the floods this year, 392 00:21:08,830 --> 00:21:10,230 food is already in short supply. 393 00:21:10,880 --> 00:21:12,160 If you grow enough, 394 00:21:12,400 --> 00:21:14,000 not only will you feed people, 395 00:21:14,530 --> 00:21:17,570 but you'll also introduce a new food crop. 396 00:21:18,160 --> 00:21:19,830 No grain merchant would turn that away. 397 00:21:26,240 --> 00:21:28,480 At 50 coins per jin for white flour, 398 00:21:29,050 --> 00:21:31,290 one mu of land could yield around 300 jin. 399 00:21:32,000 --> 00:21:33,240 With ten mu of land in a year, 400 00:21:33,910 --> 00:21:35,590 that's over a hundred taels of silver! 401 00:21:35,830 --> 00:21:36,910 That's a great idea. 402 00:21:37,200 --> 00:21:38,400 Let's do it your way. 403 00:21:38,960 --> 00:21:40,350 What good stuff you've got there? 404 00:21:41,880 --> 00:21:42,880 Ji Yong, 405 00:21:43,210 --> 00:21:44,290 you scared us again. 406 00:21:45,160 --> 00:21:46,160 You got food here. 407 00:21:50,080 --> 00:21:51,640 Try it. 408 00:21:54,720 --> 00:21:55,720 Not bad. 409 00:21:55,960 --> 00:21:56,960 But it can be sweeter. 410 00:21:58,680 --> 00:22:01,160 Young Master Ji, why are you wearing such a scary mask? 411 00:22:02,320 --> 00:22:03,320 It attracts fortune. 412 00:22:03,720 --> 00:22:04,950 I'm here to bring you money. 413 00:22:06,040 --> 00:22:07,760 You've made the deal? What's the price? 414 00:22:07,960 --> 00:22:08,960 Who's the buyer? 415 00:22:09,840 --> 00:22:11,560 Want to see it? Beg me. 416 00:22:15,520 --> 00:22:17,600 -Please. -You actually begged? 417 00:22:18,560 --> 00:22:19,560 Well, that's no fun. 418 00:22:24,320 --> 00:22:25,320 Look. 419 00:22:27,600 --> 00:22:30,200 The Ministry of Works is paying so much for the ship! 420 00:22:30,280 --> 00:22:32,820 The court has never bought civilian ships before! 421 00:22:33,750 --> 00:22:35,310 If it weren't an unprecedented move, 422 00:22:35,440 --> 00:22:36,680 I wouldn't have bothered. 423 00:22:36,760 --> 00:22:37,920 I submitted a proposal to Minister Mu Chuan 424 00:22:38,050 --> 00:22:39,970 advocating for reforms in maritime trade, 425 00:22:40,290 --> 00:22:42,190 selling civilian ships to the government 426 00:22:42,280 --> 00:22:44,570 and consolidating overseas trade under the court's control. 427 00:22:44,640 --> 00:22:45,930 This way, we can ease people's burden 428 00:22:46,010 --> 00:22:47,550 and replenish the national treasury. 429 00:22:49,640 --> 00:22:50,730 Thank you, Young Master Ji. 430 00:22:51,980 --> 00:22:55,410 No need to thank me. Mu Chuan only agreed to see me because Dou Zhao 431 00:22:55,800 --> 00:22:57,740 sent the invitation under the Dou family's name. 432 00:22:57,920 --> 00:23:00,400 -Zhao... -No need for thanks between us. 433 00:23:01,600 --> 00:23:03,560 Now that the crisis is over, 434 00:23:03,700 --> 00:23:05,460 let's go back together tomorrow. 435 00:23:06,600 --> 00:23:07,600 Zhao, 436 00:23:08,640 --> 00:23:10,720 I can't go back with you. 437 00:23:11,760 --> 00:23:13,210 Every year during sailing season, 438 00:23:13,550 --> 00:23:15,310 I'd come here with my parents 439 00:23:15,550 --> 00:23:16,790 to oil and polish the ship. 440 00:23:17,360 --> 00:23:18,810 From a small boat to a big ship, 441 00:23:19,360 --> 00:23:20,790 now it's all gone in an instant. 442 00:23:22,300 --> 00:23:23,460 It's time for me to grow up. 443 00:23:25,000 --> 00:23:27,520 You're staying in Futing to help with the family business? 444 00:23:28,840 --> 00:23:29,840 Zhao, 445 00:23:31,320 --> 00:23:32,840 I won't let you down. 446 00:23:34,150 --> 00:23:35,310 What I've lost today, 447 00:23:36,790 --> 00:23:38,190 I'll earn back in the future! 448 00:23:38,760 --> 00:23:39,760 Alright! 449 00:23:40,600 --> 00:23:42,310 Let's wish for our wishes to come true, 450 00:23:42,560 --> 00:23:45,200 and for the days ahead to be peaceful, free, and full of joy. 451 00:23:46,080 --> 00:23:47,680 Peaceful, free, and full of joy! 452 00:23:48,960 --> 00:23:49,960 Free, and full of joy! 453 00:23:58,320 --> 00:23:59,320 Greetings, Minister Mu. 454 00:24:01,040 --> 00:24:02,040 Greetings, Minister Mu. 455 00:24:03,120 --> 00:24:04,720 (Minister of Work, Mu Chuan) 456 00:24:06,520 --> 00:24:07,680 This way, please, My Lord. 457 00:24:19,920 --> 00:24:22,200 This idea of selling the ships is priceless. 458 00:24:22,880 --> 00:24:24,200 I owe you a huge favor. 459 00:24:26,040 --> 00:24:28,040 What favor? It was just a game. 460 00:24:28,480 --> 00:24:30,720 The fun I had was worth more than any fortune. 461 00:24:32,840 --> 00:24:34,280 Besides, I won Mu Chuan's favor with the proposal. 462 00:24:34,360 --> 00:24:35,560 He submitted it to His Majesty under his name. 463 00:24:35,640 --> 00:24:37,510 In return, he recommended me for the position 464 00:24:37,590 --> 00:24:39,290 of secretary at the prince's residence. 465 00:24:40,040 --> 00:24:41,840 That role is low-ranking and full of tedious responsibilities. 466 00:24:41,920 --> 00:24:43,880 You'd have to guide and advise the prince 467 00:24:44,080 --> 00:24:46,040 while also reporting regularly to His Majesty. 468 00:24:46,130 --> 00:24:47,770 It's a thankless job that pleases no one. 469 00:24:48,520 --> 00:24:49,720 The harder the job, 470 00:24:49,960 --> 00:24:51,200 the easier it is to stand out. 471 00:24:51,850 --> 00:24:53,410 I prefer to work smart, not hard. 472 00:24:53,640 --> 00:24:56,560 I'm not about to let myself rot away like those unsold goods on the ship. 473 00:24:56,640 --> 00:24:58,720 Since the Crown Prince isn't favored, 474 00:24:58,800 --> 00:25:00,300 I might as well take a bigger gamble 475 00:25:00,380 --> 00:25:01,580 and support another prince. 476 00:25:05,120 --> 00:25:07,200 You're going to Prince Qing's Residence? 477 00:25:09,360 --> 00:25:11,000 The Crown Prince's mother, Empress Shen, 478 00:25:11,080 --> 00:25:13,220 came from a humble background and passed away early. 479 00:25:13,480 --> 00:25:15,480 He doesn't have many allies among the court officials. 480 00:25:15,560 --> 00:25:17,190 Prince Qing, on the other hand, is known for valuing talent, 481 00:25:17,320 --> 00:25:18,440 holds military power in Liaodong, 482 00:25:18,800 --> 00:25:21,160 and his mother, Empress Wan, is favored by His Majesty. 483 00:25:21,240 --> 00:25:22,240 With me on his side, 484 00:25:22,400 --> 00:25:24,040 his chances of surpassing the Crown Prince are much higher. 485 00:25:26,960 --> 00:25:29,400 I once heard that Prince Qing's rebellion succeeded 486 00:25:30,000 --> 00:25:32,640 thanks to an extraordinarily brilliant strategist by his side. 487 00:25:33,600 --> 00:25:34,600 Could it be him? 488 00:25:35,600 --> 00:25:37,840 If Ji Yong goes to Liaodong to assist Prince Qing, 489 00:25:38,640 --> 00:25:40,680 will he meet a tragic end again because of it? 490 00:25:41,600 --> 00:25:42,690 I'd advise you 491 00:25:42,770 --> 00:25:44,210 to think it through carefully. 492 00:25:46,080 --> 00:25:47,480 I'll be straight with you. 493 00:25:48,760 --> 00:25:51,150 Prince Qing is rebellious, he'll overthrow the throne one day. 494 00:25:51,230 --> 00:25:53,500 Don't forget why you entered officialdom in the first place. 495 00:25:55,490 --> 00:25:56,490 If he rebels, 496 00:25:56,960 --> 00:25:59,090 wouldn't that align perfectly with my original intent? 497 00:26:06,640 --> 00:26:07,640 You've known all along... 498 00:26:08,720 --> 00:26:09,870 What happens in the future, 499 00:26:09,950 --> 00:26:13,310 heaven knows, earth knows, I know, and you know. 500 00:26:14,560 --> 00:26:16,520 I observe the world without being controlled by it. 501 00:26:16,600 --> 00:26:18,770 Princes and kings, in my hands, 502 00:26:18,850 --> 00:26:20,520 are nothing more than tools to a greater vision. 503 00:26:20,600 --> 00:26:21,840 The court is decayed, 504 00:26:23,080 --> 00:26:24,660 foreign enemies are poised to strike, 505 00:26:25,120 --> 00:26:27,720 and all I want is someone who recognizes my worth 506 00:26:28,160 --> 00:26:29,810 and grants me the power to enact reform. 507 00:26:29,990 --> 00:26:31,830 Healing individuals is a small matter, 508 00:26:32,320 --> 00:26:33,320 healing a nation 509 00:26:33,580 --> 00:26:34,930 is where my true strategy lies. 510 00:26:35,120 --> 00:26:37,840 I can extend this dynasty's life by a hundred years. 511 00:26:43,480 --> 00:26:45,440 Minister Mu, they're here. 512 00:26:52,240 --> 00:26:54,080 So, there are the tubers you mentioned in your letter, 513 00:26:54,160 --> 00:26:55,760 the ones that doesn't spoil easily? 514 00:26:56,280 --> 00:26:58,030 The people of Futing call it a potato. 515 00:26:58,420 --> 00:27:01,360 Many of the other goods were ruined after the delay, 516 00:27:01,590 --> 00:27:02,670 but these remained intact. 517 00:27:06,400 --> 00:27:07,680 Looks like this crop 518 00:27:08,760 --> 00:27:11,000 is far more valuable than 519 00:27:13,280 --> 00:27:14,830 the rest of the cargo on the ship. 520 00:27:15,520 --> 00:27:16,520 Here. 521 00:27:18,040 --> 00:27:19,200 This strawberry ice cream 522 00:27:19,600 --> 00:27:20,920 is only available in Futing. 523 00:27:21,280 --> 00:27:23,620 Once I go to Liaodong, there'll be no chance to have it. 524 00:27:23,760 --> 00:27:26,520 Didn't you say that ice cream is too cold for the stomach 525 00:27:27,160 --> 00:27:29,280 and can make you feel lightheaded if you eat too much? 526 00:27:29,360 --> 00:27:32,000 Silly. If you get sick, I'll just treat you. 527 00:27:32,960 --> 00:27:33,960 Eat up. 528 00:27:35,200 --> 00:27:38,440 Real men drink wine and eat meat. 529 00:27:39,320 --> 00:27:40,800 Look at that grown man 530 00:27:41,240 --> 00:27:44,280 eating dainty sweets fit for women and children. 531 00:27:45,320 --> 00:27:48,040 So now taste preferences come with gender labels too? 532 00:27:48,280 --> 00:27:49,280 How childish. 533 00:27:50,650 --> 00:27:52,090 You two might drink and eat meat, 534 00:27:52,320 --> 00:27:53,880 does it make you conquer battlefields 535 00:27:53,950 --> 00:27:55,470 or govern a nation? 536 00:27:56,920 --> 00:27:58,200 How arrogant! 537 00:27:58,560 --> 00:27:59,610 Young Lady, 538 00:27:59,830 --> 00:28:01,310 he's clearly not a suitable match! 539 00:28:02,400 --> 00:28:05,040 Right, unlike you two, you're perfect for each other. 540 00:28:05,120 --> 00:28:06,120 You... 541 00:28:06,760 --> 00:28:08,760 Don't be mad. Let's drink. 542 00:28:08,880 --> 00:28:09,880 Drink. 543 00:28:11,640 --> 00:28:13,640 -Here. -By the way, 544 00:28:15,520 --> 00:28:16,520 I got this for you. 545 00:28:18,120 --> 00:28:20,700 The snow in Liaodong is heavy, and there are many hunting pits. 546 00:28:20,850 --> 00:28:23,080 I've noticed you always squint when you look at things. 547 00:28:23,520 --> 00:28:25,070 I figured your eyesight isn't great. 548 00:28:25,520 --> 00:28:28,000 I went around the capital and found this for you. 549 00:28:29,920 --> 00:28:31,240 Consider it a parting gift. 550 00:28:33,080 --> 00:28:34,200 You even noticed that? 551 00:28:47,400 --> 00:28:48,560 Looking up close now, 552 00:28:49,240 --> 00:28:50,830 you're actually not that ugly. 553 00:28:53,880 --> 00:28:55,970 Alright, I'll give you something in return. 554 00:28:56,720 --> 00:29:00,020 I always save the strawberry on my ice cream for last 555 00:29:00,100 --> 00:29:01,900 because I can't bear to eat them right away. 556 00:29:02,960 --> 00:29:03,960 I'll give it to you now. 557 00:29:09,360 --> 00:29:10,360 Shou Gu. 558 00:29:11,640 --> 00:29:12,640 Father? 559 00:29:12,920 --> 00:29:14,680 -Are you alright? -What are you doing here? 560 00:29:14,920 --> 00:29:15,960 If we had come any later, 561 00:29:16,530 --> 00:29:18,770 you'd have probably turned Futing upside down by now. 562 00:29:20,120 --> 00:29:22,460 -Uncle Shi Shu. -You really are something. 563 00:29:22,720 --> 00:29:24,850 Disgracing the family and running off to elope. 564 00:29:25,530 --> 00:29:27,240 You found yourself the perfect match, huh? 565 00:29:28,760 --> 00:29:29,760 Shou Gu, 566 00:29:29,990 --> 00:29:32,800 a young lady like you traveling all the way to Futing on your own, 567 00:29:32,880 --> 00:29:34,720 do you have any idea how worried we've been? 568 00:29:34,790 --> 00:29:36,470 Father, Uncle Shi Shu. 569 00:29:38,570 --> 00:29:41,050 This is Ji Yong, a cousin of the Cui family from Jian'an. 570 00:29:41,880 --> 00:29:44,480 He's also the official in charge of Maritime Trade Office's cases. 571 00:29:44,960 --> 00:29:46,520 Ah, so you're Master Ji's son. 572 00:29:47,180 --> 00:29:48,500 Greetings, uncles. 573 00:29:51,040 --> 00:29:53,560 You've truly gone to great lengths to disgrace our family's name 574 00:29:53,720 --> 00:29:54,960 all the way here in Futing! 575 00:29:55,720 --> 00:29:58,540 I came to Futing to help the Miao family out of their predicament. 576 00:29:58,960 --> 00:30:02,690 I'm the investor of An Su's family shipping business. 577 00:30:03,010 --> 00:30:05,290 I couldn't just sit back and do nothing. 578 00:30:05,600 --> 00:30:08,160 What morals and obligations outweigh propriety and decency? 579 00:30:09,120 --> 00:30:10,520 An unmarried young lady like you 580 00:30:10,600 --> 00:30:13,400 are supposed to be staying at home preparing for marriage, 581 00:30:13,600 --> 00:30:14,600 This is disgraceful! 582 00:30:14,880 --> 00:30:17,720 The Miao family were mere tenant farmers on an estate. 583 00:30:18,160 --> 00:30:19,480 Now they're merchants, 584 00:30:19,560 --> 00:30:20,920 a world apart from you. 585 00:30:21,080 --> 00:30:22,360 You don't have a friend like her. 586 00:30:22,440 --> 00:30:25,060 Didn't our own Dou family of the north rise from being peddlers? 587 00:30:25,640 --> 00:30:26,960 Later, to establish hierarchy, 588 00:30:27,240 --> 00:30:29,380 we divided into the Eastern and Western Dou branches. 589 00:30:29,480 --> 00:30:31,960 Should we also disown our ancestors for their humble beginnings? 590 00:30:32,070 --> 00:30:35,040 You... You dare debate family heritage with me? 591 00:30:35,280 --> 00:30:37,000 -You're out of line! -Shi Shu... 592 00:30:37,080 --> 00:30:38,320 Calm down, Shi Shu. 593 00:30:38,440 --> 00:30:39,440 Uncle Shi Shu, 594 00:30:39,520 --> 00:30:42,280 Dou Zhao contributed strategies to resolve the maritime trade crisis. 595 00:30:42,360 --> 00:30:45,040 She is considered a servant of the court. You can't hit her. 596 00:30:45,240 --> 00:30:46,240 Stay out of this. 597 00:30:47,230 --> 00:30:48,230 Ungrateful child! 598 00:30:49,160 --> 00:30:52,250 Do you even know your grandmother has been sick for days because of you? 599 00:30:53,280 --> 00:30:54,280 What happened to Grandmother? 600 00:30:57,200 --> 00:30:58,400 What's wrong with her? 601 00:30:58,520 --> 00:31:00,880 Your grandmother fell ill from missing you too much. 602 00:31:01,200 --> 00:31:02,690 Ying Xue is taking care of her now. 603 00:31:03,000 --> 00:31:04,000 Wang Ying Xue? 604 00:31:04,320 --> 00:31:06,440 You're so full of ideas and so capable. 605 00:31:07,360 --> 00:31:09,880 What does the death of a family even mean to someone like you? 606 00:31:10,040 --> 00:31:11,040 Uncle Shi Shu, 607 00:31:11,120 --> 00:31:12,350 I've learned my lesson now. 608 00:31:12,680 --> 00:31:14,600 Traveling to Futing was a mistake. 609 00:31:14,690 --> 00:31:16,170 I'll accept any punishment you see fit. 610 00:31:16,360 --> 00:31:19,250 Please just allow me to return home quickly to care for Grandmother. 611 00:31:22,360 --> 00:31:24,840 Deliver this letter to the local authorities 612 00:31:25,400 --> 00:31:27,320 and make it clear that our family's legitimate daughter 613 00:31:27,400 --> 00:31:28,760 was never in Futing. 614 00:31:28,840 --> 00:31:29,840 Got it. 615 00:31:39,480 --> 00:31:40,520 Father, Uncle Shi Shu, 616 00:31:41,440 --> 00:31:43,080 I know Grandmother's condition best. 617 00:31:43,760 --> 00:31:46,220 This can't be delayed. Why don't we set out tonight? 618 00:31:46,880 --> 00:31:47,960 Now you feel the urgency? 619 00:31:49,320 --> 00:31:50,920 Your mother is looking after her now. 620 00:31:51,320 --> 00:31:52,320 There's no rush. 621 00:31:52,720 --> 00:31:53,880 But your father and I 622 00:31:54,170 --> 00:31:56,370 have traveled a long way, 623 00:31:57,600 --> 00:31:59,080 pulling countless strings, 624 00:31:59,720 --> 00:32:03,200 all for the sake of protecting you. 625 00:32:04,960 --> 00:32:06,600 I understand completely, Uncle. 626 00:32:07,510 --> 00:32:10,790 I will hand over all my private assets in Futing to the family 627 00:32:11,120 --> 00:32:12,120 to atone for my mistakes. 628 00:32:15,510 --> 00:32:16,510 What nonsense! 629 00:32:17,040 --> 00:32:18,480 Do you think your father and I 630 00:32:18,960 --> 00:32:21,240 came all this way just to take over your meager assets? 631 00:32:21,320 --> 00:32:22,400 That's not what I meant. 632 00:32:23,440 --> 00:32:25,840 I'm willing to return home, stay under house arrest, 633 00:32:26,050 --> 00:32:28,060 and fully submitting to the guidance of my elders. 634 00:32:30,080 --> 00:32:31,600 Shou Gu means well. 635 00:32:31,960 --> 00:32:34,450 Shi Shu, why don't we set out now? 636 00:32:37,880 --> 00:32:39,040 We've traveled far 637 00:32:39,890 --> 00:32:41,170 and deserve a few days of rest. 638 00:32:41,780 --> 00:32:42,780 But fine. 639 00:32:43,800 --> 00:32:45,680 We'll rest tonight and leave at dawn. 640 00:32:46,480 --> 00:32:47,480 Thank you, Uncle. 641 00:33:13,520 --> 00:33:14,520 Sir, 642 00:33:15,280 --> 00:33:16,280 what can I get you? 643 00:33:42,880 --> 00:33:44,720 We could've stayed overnight in Wu Town, 644 00:33:45,840 --> 00:33:47,670 but she insisted on traveling without rest. 645 00:33:48,200 --> 00:33:50,760 Now we're stuck in the middle of nowhere! 646 00:33:52,320 --> 00:33:54,760 Shi Shu, have some water and calm down. 647 00:33:56,670 --> 00:33:59,350 Shou Gu is just eager to see her grandmother. 648 00:33:59,720 --> 00:34:01,240 She's just really worried about her. 649 00:34:02,540 --> 00:34:03,860 Since everyone's tired, 650 00:34:04,130 --> 00:34:06,090 let's set up camp here for the night. 651 00:34:09,800 --> 00:34:12,489 Master Shi Shu, Master Shi Ying, there's a military camp just ahead. 652 00:34:24,199 --> 00:34:26,810 Are you Master Shi Shu and Master Shi Ying from the Dou family? 653 00:34:28,360 --> 00:34:29,360 Yes, that's us. 654 00:34:29,760 --> 00:34:31,880 And how are you, sir? 655 00:34:32,080 --> 00:34:33,080 Greetings, my lords. 656 00:34:33,159 --> 00:34:34,560 We are troops stationed at the outskirts. 657 00:34:34,639 --> 00:34:36,290 The camp ahead is a rest area our army 658 00:34:36,370 --> 00:34:38,030 has prepared for travelers on the road. 659 00:34:38,600 --> 00:34:40,639 You can rest there without concern. 660 00:34:41,679 --> 00:34:43,790 We wouldn't dare impose on the military's duties. 661 00:34:43,960 --> 00:34:46,150 Serving you well is part of our duty. 662 00:34:46,480 --> 00:34:48,090 Food and wine will be brought shortly. 663 00:34:48,199 --> 00:34:49,960 Please don't refuse. 664 00:34:53,480 --> 00:34:55,440 Thank you then, General. 665 00:34:55,639 --> 00:34:56,639 This way, please. 666 00:34:58,040 --> 00:34:59,680 You must be weary from your long journey. 667 00:34:59,760 --> 00:35:00,920 Thank you for your trouble. 668 00:35:01,240 --> 00:35:02,240 You're welcome. Enjoy. 669 00:35:08,600 --> 00:35:10,080 This meal is quite lavish. 670 00:35:10,640 --> 00:35:11,920 It's almost too lavish, 671 00:35:12,760 --> 00:35:14,760 doesn't feel like something a military camp would prepare. 672 00:35:14,920 --> 00:35:16,800 -Thank you. -Let me fill your glass. 673 00:35:16,880 --> 00:35:17,880 Thank you. 674 00:35:20,480 --> 00:35:22,720 Young Lady, traveling in such a rush might have upset your stomach. 675 00:35:22,800 --> 00:35:24,520 It's best to avoid these heavy, greasy dishes. 676 00:35:24,590 --> 00:35:26,800 I'll go see if they have some light porridge. 677 00:35:40,800 --> 00:35:41,800 Oh... 678 00:35:54,640 --> 00:35:57,960 Officer, may I know what time it is now? 679 00:35:58,720 --> 00:36:00,800 It's the hour of the Yin, Young Lady Zhao. 680 00:36:03,160 --> 00:36:04,480 Young Lady Zhao? 681 00:36:05,320 --> 00:36:06,560 They're Futing soldiers. 682 00:36:07,480 --> 00:36:08,710 If I'm not mistaken, 683 00:36:10,000 --> 00:36:11,280 they're the Duke of Ding's Army. 684 00:36:11,430 --> 00:36:13,470 What's the Duke of Ding's Army doing in Hanzhou? 685 00:36:14,320 --> 00:36:15,320 I'll explain later. 686 00:36:29,420 --> 00:36:31,240 (Yuzhou) 687 00:36:34,000 --> 00:36:35,760 Travel permit, please. Where are you sending these? 688 00:36:35,840 --> 00:36:36,840 The market. 689 00:36:37,920 --> 00:36:38,920 Thank you. 690 00:36:50,880 --> 00:36:53,800 Master Shi Ying, they say as bandits have been rampant in Yuzhou City, 691 00:36:53,950 --> 00:36:55,750 we need a travel permit to enter the city. 692 00:36:56,450 --> 00:36:57,610 We left in such a rush. 693 00:36:58,120 --> 00:36:59,680 We haven't prepared any travel permits. 694 00:36:59,760 --> 00:37:00,760 Su Lan, 695 00:37:00,950 --> 00:37:02,600 I bet someone has made arrangements for us. 696 00:37:02,720 --> 00:37:03,720 Call Gao Sheng over. 697 00:37:06,680 --> 00:37:07,680 Young Lady. 698 00:37:08,390 --> 00:37:09,910 Tell the guards that your masters 699 00:37:10,200 --> 00:37:13,830 are the officials from Ministry of Rites returning to the capital on assignment. 700 00:37:13,920 --> 00:37:15,210 See if that gets us through. 701 00:37:15,480 --> 00:37:16,720 Have you checked the goods? 702 00:37:16,800 --> 00:37:17,800 All good. 703 00:37:18,440 --> 00:37:20,880 Sir, could you allow my master to pass first? 704 00:37:21,680 --> 00:37:23,280 What's your master's official position? 705 00:37:23,550 --> 00:37:25,750 Dou Shi Shu, an official from the Ministry of Rites. 706 00:37:27,960 --> 00:37:29,460 Lord Dou from the Ministry of Rites? 707 00:37:29,540 --> 00:37:30,540 Yes. 708 00:37:31,600 --> 00:37:33,480 Clear the way! Let them through! 709 00:37:34,880 --> 00:37:35,880 Clear the way! 710 00:37:38,860 --> 00:37:40,620 When we passed through Yuzhou City before, 711 00:37:40,920 --> 00:37:42,610 we've never been given such priority. 712 00:37:44,480 --> 00:37:45,480 What's going on here? 713 00:37:46,600 --> 00:37:47,600 My Lord, 714 00:37:47,720 --> 00:37:49,400 they say it was an order from above, 715 00:37:49,920 --> 00:37:52,030 that Lord Dou from the Ministry of Rites is to be given priority passage. 716 00:37:52,400 --> 00:37:53,400 Really? 717 00:38:04,680 --> 00:38:05,680 Believe me, 718 00:38:06,040 --> 00:38:08,000 this has nothing to do with either of us. 719 00:38:59,360 --> 00:39:01,000 Young Lady, the wheel is stuck. 720 00:39:01,600 --> 00:39:02,720 Why have we stopped? 721 00:39:03,080 --> 00:39:04,730 Young Lady Zhao's carriage is stuck. 722 00:39:16,840 --> 00:39:18,520 They're coming to rob us! 723 00:39:26,880 --> 00:39:27,880 Shou Gu! 724 00:39:28,640 --> 00:39:29,800 Give me a hand here! 725 00:39:31,080 --> 00:39:33,280 One, two, three! 726 00:39:33,720 --> 00:39:35,880 One, two, three! 727 00:39:36,400 --> 00:39:38,880 One, two, three! 728 00:39:49,400 --> 00:39:50,800 Who are you? 729 00:39:51,320 --> 00:39:52,720 We're villagers from around here. 730 00:39:53,200 --> 00:39:54,320 The roads here are uneven. 731 00:39:54,560 --> 00:39:57,200 When it rains, carriages often get stuck. 732 00:39:57,840 --> 00:39:59,870 We're just here to lend a hand pushing them out. 733 00:40:01,800 --> 00:40:02,800 Thank you all. 734 00:40:03,440 --> 00:40:07,800 Su Lan, give them some silver pieces as a token of appreciation. 735 00:40:09,320 --> 00:40:10,440 We're not here for rewards, 736 00:40:10,600 --> 00:40:11,600 just to help. 737 00:40:11,880 --> 00:40:12,960 There are more of us ahead. 738 00:40:13,430 --> 00:40:15,370 Wishing you a safe journey, Young Lady Zhao. 739 00:40:16,240 --> 00:40:18,240 Let's go. 740 00:40:21,960 --> 00:40:23,900 How do they all know to call you Young Lady Zhao? 741 00:40:23,980 --> 00:40:25,780 Don't say anything. Get in. 742 00:40:27,960 --> 00:40:29,040 I rarely travel far, 743 00:40:29,360 --> 00:40:31,860 but seeing this now, we're really living in a time of peace. 744 00:40:32,800 --> 00:40:34,080 What time of peace? 745 00:40:35,320 --> 00:40:37,080 They're here specially for your daughter. 746 00:40:37,960 --> 00:40:40,330 God knows how she got involved with those unsavory people. 747 00:40:42,840 --> 00:40:44,720 Young Lady Zhao is a kind and generous person. 748 00:40:44,960 --> 00:40:46,520 Heaven is always looking out for her. 749 00:40:48,760 --> 00:40:50,210 You must be joking, Shi Shu. 750 00:40:50,560 --> 00:40:52,080 How could Shou Gu possibly know them? 751 00:40:53,080 --> 00:40:54,080 Let's keep moving. 752 00:41:15,840 --> 00:41:16,840 Shou Gu. 753 00:41:18,270 --> 00:41:19,270 Shi Shu. 754 00:41:20,630 --> 00:41:22,110 Aren't you going in to visit Mother? 755 00:41:22,710 --> 00:41:24,110 Are you really going in the estate? 756 00:41:24,880 --> 00:41:26,600 What about your work at the Ministry of Revenue? 757 00:41:26,680 --> 00:41:27,920 But Mother is still ill. 758 00:41:28,750 --> 00:41:29,990 And we're not doctors. 759 00:41:30,310 --> 00:41:31,770 Seeing us won't make her better. 760 00:41:32,440 --> 00:41:34,600 She's got Shou Gu and Ying Xue to take care of her. 761 00:41:34,970 --> 00:41:36,170 Father, Uncle, 762 00:41:36,800 --> 00:41:37,920 I'll go see Grandmother now. 763 00:41:40,080 --> 00:41:42,010 Since the marriage agreement has been signed, 764 00:41:43,000 --> 00:41:44,840 you should now focus on fulfilling your duties 765 00:41:45,320 --> 00:41:46,950 and prepare yourself for the wedding. 766 00:41:48,360 --> 00:41:49,360 Marriage agreement? 767 00:41:49,800 --> 00:41:50,960 Didn't your father tell you? 768 00:41:51,880 --> 00:41:53,240 While you were in Futing, 769 00:41:53,720 --> 00:41:54,960 your father and mother 770 00:41:55,560 --> 00:41:57,120 signed the marriage agreement for you. 771 00:41:58,040 --> 00:41:59,080 It was a pressing matter. 772 00:41:59,600 --> 00:42:01,840 I had wanted to discuss it with you after you returned, 773 00:42:01,940 --> 00:42:05,600 but Ying Xue went ahead and signed the agreement. 774 00:42:08,040 --> 00:42:09,040 Shou Gu! 775 00:42:12,040 --> 00:42:13,440 Dou Shi Shu and Dou Shi Ying 776 00:42:13,770 --> 00:42:15,250 are shallow and heartless. 777 00:42:17,280 --> 00:42:18,800 Unlike you, My Lord, 778 00:42:19,080 --> 00:42:21,040 you escorted Young Lady Zhao all the way here 779 00:42:21,120 --> 00:42:22,680 without even letting her know. 780 00:42:24,720 --> 00:42:27,160 She made it clear she didn't want to see me again, 781 00:42:27,920 --> 00:42:29,360 so there's no need to disturb her. 782 00:42:30,080 --> 00:42:32,660 As long as she can see her grandmother a little sooner, 783 00:42:33,080 --> 00:42:34,080 that's what matters. 784 00:42:42,840 --> 00:42:43,840 Zhao, 785 00:42:44,240 --> 00:42:45,440 I'm so glad 786 00:42:45,800 --> 00:42:47,170 to see you home safely. 787 00:43:03,750 --> 00:43:06,070 Song Mo killed his father and brother this same year. 788 00:43:06,150 --> 00:43:08,750 Could there be another reason, besides avenging Duke of Ding, 789 00:43:08,990 --> 00:43:11,090 that caused such a drastic change in his character? 790 00:43:11,280 --> 00:43:12,720 My personal guards are in danger, 791 00:43:12,800 --> 00:43:14,520 and my mother has just died. 792 00:43:14,690 --> 00:43:15,890 I've stepped into a deadlock, 793 00:43:16,070 --> 00:43:17,390 and what I need now 794 00:43:18,120 --> 00:43:19,680 is the strength to fight.