1 00:00:08,119 --> 00:00:10,000 Wang Ying Xue thinks she's so clever, 2 00:00:11,320 --> 00:00:13,200 so I have to stay one step ahead of her. 3 00:00:13,480 --> 00:00:15,520 The divination results don't matter. 4 00:00:16,079 --> 00:00:17,080 What matters 5 00:00:17,360 --> 00:00:19,090 is planting doubt in Wei Ting Zhen's mind. 6 00:00:19,280 --> 00:00:20,880 Wei Ting Zhen already has her suspicions. 7 00:00:21,080 --> 00:00:22,800 With you suddenly being so friendly, 8 00:00:22,980 --> 00:00:24,360 she's bound to investigate it. 9 00:00:24,440 --> 00:00:26,240 So, if she investigates, 10 00:00:26,480 --> 00:00:27,760 what exactly will she find out? 11 00:00:28,610 --> 00:00:29,890 That's where you two come in. 12 00:00:30,170 --> 00:00:31,550 I'll need you to put on a convincing show. 13 00:00:32,880 --> 00:00:33,880 What? 14 00:00:34,440 --> 00:00:36,480 -Infertile? -That's right. 15 00:00:36,790 --> 00:00:40,360 I went to ask Dou Zhao's personal maids as you instructed. 16 00:00:40,590 --> 00:00:43,410 After a few drinks, she spilled everything. 17 00:00:43,560 --> 00:00:46,200 Your mistress looked terribly unwell the last time we saw her. 18 00:00:46,800 --> 00:00:50,600 So, Her Grace asked me to prepare some tonics for her. 19 00:00:52,110 --> 00:00:53,770 She's had more tonics than I can count, 20 00:00:54,000 --> 00:00:55,400 but none of them seem to help. 21 00:00:56,400 --> 00:00:57,400 No wonder. 22 00:00:57,640 --> 00:00:59,640 There's such a strong smell of medicine on her. 23 00:00:59,720 --> 00:01:02,400 I brew so much medicine for her that I'm practically soaked in it. 24 00:01:02,680 --> 00:01:04,040 The medicine smells so strong. 25 00:01:04,480 --> 00:01:07,560 What illness does your mistress have? 26 00:01:07,670 --> 00:01:08,670 Well, she's... 27 00:01:11,920 --> 00:01:12,920 Nanny, don't mind her. 28 00:01:13,360 --> 00:01:15,350 My sister is drunk. She's rambling nonsense. 29 00:01:15,680 --> 00:01:17,640 Young Lady Zhao isn't seriously ill. 30 00:01:17,880 --> 00:01:19,160 That medicine was for me. 31 00:01:19,600 --> 00:01:21,160 It was obviously a lie. 32 00:01:21,480 --> 00:01:22,480 Who would believe that? 33 00:01:22,960 --> 00:01:24,400 After much effort, 34 00:01:24,590 --> 00:01:26,030 I followed them until dawn 35 00:01:26,160 --> 00:01:27,600 and saw them burying something 36 00:01:27,680 --> 00:01:30,600 wrapped in white cloth under a tree. 37 00:01:34,800 --> 00:01:36,990 I dug it up and asked someone familiar with herbs about it. 38 00:01:37,120 --> 00:01:38,360 They said the heavy medicine 39 00:01:38,430 --> 00:01:40,350 was for women with severe deficiencies, 40 00:01:40,479 --> 00:01:42,520 the kind who can't conceive. 41 00:01:43,080 --> 00:01:45,479 Madam, you should've seen it, 42 00:01:45,840 --> 00:01:48,680 the tree was scorched and nearly bare! 43 00:01:51,120 --> 00:01:54,280 No wonder one was acting sneaky, and the other's suddenly changed her attitude. 44 00:01:54,360 --> 00:01:56,200 She's known all along that Dou Zhao is infertile! 45 00:01:56,280 --> 00:01:59,250 They're worried she won't find a match and are trying to push her onto us! 46 00:01:59,360 --> 00:02:00,480 Oh, Wang Ying Xue... 47 00:02:02,160 --> 00:02:03,960 She has no respect for even the gods. 48 00:02:06,040 --> 00:02:07,960 Have the study send a letter to the Dou family 49 00:02:08,440 --> 00:02:10,479 to pause the wedding arrangements for now. 50 00:02:11,440 --> 00:02:12,680 Since Dou Zhao is unwell, 51 00:02:13,400 --> 00:02:15,560 the wedding will have to be postponed. 52 00:02:16,440 --> 00:02:17,720 Let's see 53 00:02:18,360 --> 00:02:20,240 which of us runs out of patience first. 54 00:02:26,880 --> 00:02:28,950 -Madam, please calm down. -What on earth is 55 00:02:29,400 --> 00:02:30,560 Wei Ting Zhen playing at now? 56 00:02:40,160 --> 00:02:41,160 Hold out your hands. 57 00:02:46,760 --> 00:02:48,480 What on earth did Dou Zhao say to you? 58 00:02:48,840 --> 00:02:49,840 Don't blame her. 59 00:02:50,160 --> 00:02:52,470 It was my own fault for having thoughts I shouldn't have. 60 00:02:52,840 --> 00:02:54,560 Useless fool! 61 00:02:55,640 --> 00:02:57,280 The Marquis of Jining's household has borrowed 62 00:02:57,370 --> 00:02:58,930 against their income for the next ten years. 63 00:02:59,120 --> 00:03:01,600 Nine out of ten of their properties are losing money. 64 00:03:01,840 --> 00:03:03,000 With Wei Ting Yu's abilities, 65 00:03:03,080 --> 00:03:05,090 he couldn't pay that back in a hundred lifetimes! 66 00:03:05,760 --> 00:03:07,240 I'm marrying Dou Zhao into that family 67 00:03:07,320 --> 00:03:10,160 so Wei Ting Zhen can bleed her dry and make her life difficult! 68 00:03:10,280 --> 00:03:12,670 Do you think the rumors about maids being beaten half to death 69 00:03:12,750 --> 00:03:15,130 and thrown out of the Duke of Jing's Residence are just gossip? 70 00:03:15,840 --> 00:03:17,880 Wei Ting Yu that lecherous man must've seduced her. 71 00:03:17,960 --> 00:03:20,280 Ming has been sheltered her whole life and doesn't know how to judge people. 72 00:03:20,400 --> 00:03:21,990 That's why she fell for his sweet talk. 73 00:03:24,160 --> 00:03:26,000 Young Lady, say you're sorry. 74 00:03:27,810 --> 00:03:28,970 I'm sorry. 75 00:03:32,760 --> 00:03:34,200 Do you really realize your mistake, 76 00:03:36,360 --> 00:03:37,920 or are you just saying that because my punishment hurt? 77 00:03:38,240 --> 00:03:40,240 Mother, actually, His Lordship and I... 78 00:03:41,480 --> 00:03:42,600 Let me give you four words, 79 00:03:42,980 --> 00:03:44,140 over my dead body! 80 00:03:48,480 --> 00:03:49,480 Mother! 81 00:03:56,240 --> 00:03:58,160 Master Shi Ying has always cared about you, 82 00:03:58,360 --> 00:03:59,920 it all comes down to Master Shi Shu. 83 00:04:00,040 --> 00:04:01,320 It takes two to tango. 84 00:04:02,000 --> 00:04:04,110 Right now, it's the Wei family who's backing out. 85 00:04:04,280 --> 00:04:06,840 Uncle Shi Shu will probably just play dumb as usual. 86 00:04:07,160 --> 00:04:08,520 But I feel bad for Dou Ming. 87 00:04:09,040 --> 00:04:11,240 Wang Ying Xue has found out about her and Wei Ting Yu. 88 00:04:12,360 --> 00:04:13,850 She's bound to punish her harshly. 89 00:04:14,440 --> 00:04:16,160 Serve me some ice cream, 90 00:04:16,560 --> 00:04:19,720 and I'll gladly help you out of this mess. 91 00:04:25,160 --> 00:04:26,160 Ji Jian Ming, 92 00:04:26,680 --> 00:04:28,320 knock it off. 93 00:04:29,360 --> 00:04:30,850 What are you doing in the capital? 94 00:04:33,820 --> 00:04:36,400 The moment the horse market opened, all those sycophantic fools 95 00:04:36,600 --> 00:04:38,400 flocked to it like flies to garbage. 96 00:04:38,600 --> 00:04:40,159 And I refused to play along. 97 00:04:40,960 --> 00:04:44,120 So, Prince Qing sent me back to the capital to report on my duties. 98 00:04:45,560 --> 00:04:47,280 Tuber fleeceflower and rehmannia glutinosa? 99 00:04:47,430 --> 00:04:49,770 These are specifically used to treat infertility in women. 100 00:04:52,200 --> 00:04:53,659 Are you pretending to be infertile? 101 00:04:55,120 --> 00:04:56,730 A proper show requires the full act. 102 00:04:56,840 --> 00:04:58,400 By dumping these medicine dregs outside, 103 00:04:58,480 --> 00:05:00,400 it'll help Wei Ting Zhen make up her mind. 104 00:05:00,760 --> 00:05:03,800 No wonder Uncle Shi Ying mentioned that the wedding is delayed again. 105 00:05:03,880 --> 00:05:05,200 But why go through all this trouble? 106 00:05:05,310 --> 00:05:07,870 If you want to call off the engagement, just say the word. 107 00:05:08,040 --> 00:05:10,020 I have plenty of quick and effective ideas. 108 00:05:11,120 --> 00:05:13,840 I specialize in cutting off rotten romances. 109 00:05:14,240 --> 00:05:16,560 Domestic matters aren't like court politics. 110 00:05:17,440 --> 00:05:19,720 Acting too hastily could harm others in the process. 111 00:05:20,000 --> 00:05:22,930 Besides, the Wei family is already looking for an excuse to back out. 112 00:05:23,400 --> 00:05:25,120 Don't go doing anything rash. 113 00:05:25,350 --> 00:05:26,470 I don't need your help. 114 00:05:33,960 --> 00:05:35,200 Too bad. I'm helping anyway. 115 00:06:59,200 --> 00:07:02,450 (Blossom) 116 00:07:03,120 --> 00:07:05,440 (Episode 16) 117 00:07:11,040 --> 00:07:12,360 Bravo! 118 00:07:12,800 --> 00:07:14,760 Bravo! 119 00:07:15,320 --> 00:07:17,770 Truly worthy of being the finest performer in the capital! 120 00:07:17,880 --> 00:07:18,880 Well done! 121 00:07:21,000 --> 00:07:22,480 Are you enjoying it, Your Highness? 122 00:07:23,240 --> 00:07:25,360 To bring joy to Your Highness and Your Lordship 123 00:07:25,790 --> 00:07:27,870 is undoubtedly the greatest honor of his life. 124 00:07:30,440 --> 00:07:32,720 Who would have thought the once-dashing young general 125 00:07:33,280 --> 00:07:35,600 now spends his days indulging in opera houses? 126 00:07:36,360 --> 00:07:37,920 Your Highness, you may not know this, 127 00:07:38,000 --> 00:07:39,940 but ever since His Lordship purchased Guanghe Restaurant, 128 00:07:40,020 --> 00:07:42,740 performances here have been on every night. 129 00:07:43,480 --> 00:07:46,120 If there's something you'd like to see, 130 00:07:47,840 --> 00:07:50,600 please don't hesitate to let me know. 131 00:07:53,200 --> 00:07:54,240 This is disgraceful! 132 00:07:59,800 --> 00:08:00,800 Your Highness, 133 00:08:01,020 --> 00:08:03,440 my performers are delicately nurtured. 134 00:08:03,560 --> 00:08:04,680 Please don't frighten them. 135 00:08:06,600 --> 00:08:10,480 Bravo! Bravo! 136 00:08:12,280 --> 00:08:14,800 You're still in mourning, and you're being criticized on court. 137 00:08:15,150 --> 00:08:17,030 You're just putting on a show, aren't you? 138 00:08:20,440 --> 00:08:22,640 His Majesty exempted me from mourning, 139 00:08:22,720 --> 00:08:23,880 I simply follow orders. 140 00:08:24,320 --> 00:08:27,480 Besides, loyalty to His Majesty is the ultimate form of filial piety. 141 00:08:30,360 --> 00:08:32,000 Amazing! 142 00:08:32,850 --> 00:08:34,530 I know you're lying low, 143 00:08:35,640 --> 00:08:37,480 pretending to be indulgent and debaucherous, 144 00:08:37,650 --> 00:08:41,440 just to make people forget your resentment and your hatred. 145 00:08:44,680 --> 00:08:45,920 If you want to investigate 146 00:08:46,960 --> 00:08:48,350 the Duke of Ding's case, 147 00:08:48,800 --> 00:08:50,040 I might be able to help. 148 00:08:56,480 --> 00:08:58,120 My uncle was killed by pirates. 149 00:08:58,560 --> 00:09:00,000 His Majesty has made his ruling. 150 00:09:00,480 --> 00:09:03,920 Or do you have doubts about that, Your Highness? 151 00:09:13,520 --> 00:09:15,600 And what about your father setting you up? 152 00:09:16,220 --> 00:09:17,750 Are you going to let that go too? 153 00:09:19,440 --> 00:09:22,120 Family is family. What's there to set up or not? 154 00:09:22,440 --> 00:09:24,800 At the end of the day, he's my father, and I'm his son. 155 00:09:25,000 --> 00:09:26,240 What can I possibly do to him? 156 00:09:26,310 --> 00:09:27,750 The only things I can control 157 00:09:27,880 --> 00:09:30,680 are the spoiled brats and troublemakers in the training grounds. 158 00:09:31,320 --> 00:09:32,320 Well, 159 00:09:32,840 --> 00:09:35,080 and this little haven of mine. 160 00:09:36,200 --> 00:09:38,280 Bravo! 161 00:09:38,360 --> 00:09:40,480 What a waste of your capabilities. 162 00:09:41,920 --> 00:09:44,800 My capabilities, of course, are at Your Highness's service. 163 00:09:54,910 --> 00:09:56,440 Life in the palace can be restrictive. 164 00:09:56,680 --> 00:09:58,110 I'll pick a few performers for you 165 00:09:58,320 --> 00:10:00,200 to keep in a private spot and enjoy. 166 00:10:00,310 --> 00:10:01,950 What do you take me for? 167 00:10:03,240 --> 00:10:05,720 Count of Yunyang and Princess Jingyu think so highly of you. 168 00:10:05,810 --> 00:10:07,090 They're so wrong! 169 00:10:08,320 --> 00:10:09,640 Do come again, Your Highness! 170 00:10:13,000 --> 00:10:14,680 Bravo! 171 00:10:17,960 --> 00:10:20,080 My Lord, this is brilliant idea. 172 00:10:20,230 --> 00:10:22,750 Nearly every official in the capital loves the opera. 173 00:10:23,000 --> 00:10:24,360 Disguising ourselves as an opera troupe 174 00:10:24,440 --> 00:10:26,960 makes it easier to move unnoticed and gather intelligence. 175 00:10:27,040 --> 00:10:29,550 It also allows us to meet and plan without drawing suspicion. 176 00:10:29,880 --> 00:10:32,210 I'm just sorry that all of you have had to set aside your skills 177 00:10:32,370 --> 00:10:33,410 and hide your identities. 178 00:10:33,640 --> 00:10:35,160 It's a sacrifice I don't take lightly. 179 00:10:35,260 --> 00:10:36,620 You honor us too much, My Lord. 180 00:10:38,040 --> 00:10:40,540 About the Crown Prince's visit in disguise 181 00:10:41,120 --> 00:10:42,850 and his deliberate mention of the case, 182 00:10:43,280 --> 00:10:45,680 it can't be just an attempt to win your favor. 183 00:10:47,840 --> 00:10:48,840 My Lord, 184 00:10:48,960 --> 00:10:51,840 during today's private opera performance for the courier station officer, 185 00:10:51,930 --> 00:10:53,370 we stumbled upon a new lead. 186 00:10:53,800 --> 00:10:56,480 While drunk, he swore that before Grand General entered the capital, 187 00:10:56,560 --> 00:10:58,480 he sent a personal letter to your mother. 188 00:11:00,720 --> 00:11:03,490 Since it wasn't sent through the military courier, it went unnoticed. 189 00:11:05,320 --> 00:11:08,000 After the upheaval at home, I searched through all the letters in the house. 190 00:11:08,080 --> 00:11:09,400 There was no letter from Uncle. 191 00:11:09,880 --> 00:11:12,080 That letter vanished as soon as it reached the capital. 192 00:11:12,240 --> 00:11:14,610 Even the courier who delivered it is nowhere to be found. 193 00:11:15,040 --> 00:11:16,600 Incidentally, the courier station officer 194 00:11:16,680 --> 00:11:18,210 is a cousin of the Crown Princess. 195 00:11:23,400 --> 00:11:25,620 Send word to Chen Jia, ask him to investigate. 196 00:11:25,720 --> 00:11:27,170 Keep a close eye on everyone in the Eastern Palace. 197 00:11:27,320 --> 00:11:29,480 Find every opportunity to connect with the Crown Prince's close aides, 198 00:11:29,560 --> 00:11:30,870 including their family members. 199 00:11:32,320 --> 00:11:33,320 Yes, My Lord. 200 00:12:01,520 --> 00:12:02,960 (Su Yan) 201 00:12:03,040 --> 00:12:05,440 This is 30-year-old Jinyin wine. 202 00:12:35,360 --> 00:12:37,000 So, the one on top really believes 203 00:12:38,040 --> 00:12:39,960 the Duke of Ding's letter 204 00:12:41,040 --> 00:12:42,240 poses no threat? 205 00:12:43,040 --> 00:12:46,360 The Duke of Ding and his forces are long gone. 206 00:12:47,080 --> 00:12:49,080 It's just a letter. 207 00:12:49,450 --> 00:12:51,370 What kind of trouble could it possibly cause? 208 00:12:54,680 --> 00:12:56,240 I just don't know what madness 209 00:12:57,760 --> 00:12:59,520 my rebellious son will stir up next. 210 00:13:04,640 --> 00:13:05,640 Could my mother's death 211 00:13:06,920 --> 00:13:07,920 be connected to my uncle? 212 00:13:09,640 --> 00:13:11,120 Conviction, assassination, 213 00:13:11,520 --> 00:13:13,050 sudden illness, family upheaval, 214 00:13:13,680 --> 00:13:15,440 all these events came crashing down at once. 215 00:13:17,400 --> 00:13:19,900 Unraveling the truth requires not just meticulous investigation 216 00:13:20,280 --> 00:13:21,480 but also patience. 217 00:13:22,800 --> 00:13:24,840 As Young Lady Zhao said, 218 00:13:25,920 --> 00:13:27,970 we must plan carefully and think things through. 219 00:13:31,120 --> 00:13:33,120 My Lord, we got a situation outside. 220 00:13:38,080 --> 00:13:39,080 Where? 221 00:13:40,440 --> 00:13:42,560 Pei Jin, your painting is truly exquisite, 222 00:13:42,640 --> 00:13:43,840 such precise brushwork and masterful use of ink. 223 00:13:43,920 --> 00:13:45,280 What talent! 224 00:13:46,360 --> 00:13:48,680 Jian Ming, meeting you feels like destiny delayed. 225 00:13:49,280 --> 00:13:51,880 Your words resonate deeply with me. 226 00:13:52,020 --> 00:13:53,540 Here's to you. 227 00:13:54,680 --> 00:13:55,680 Here. 228 00:14:03,510 --> 00:14:05,920 Jian Ming, I'm feeling so troubled. 229 00:14:07,080 --> 00:14:08,200 A drink can chase away any sorrow. 230 00:14:08,280 --> 00:14:10,840 A good night's sleep will make everything better. 231 00:14:11,360 --> 00:14:12,360 Come, this way. 232 00:14:13,640 --> 00:14:15,400 -Come on. -Jian Ming. 233 00:14:20,600 --> 00:14:22,840 Since when did those two become so close? 234 00:14:25,160 --> 00:14:28,240 My Lord, Young Lady Ming has just entered Guanghe Restaurant. 235 00:14:28,680 --> 00:14:29,680 Dou Ming? 236 00:14:46,440 --> 00:14:47,440 He's in that room. 237 00:14:47,600 --> 00:14:48,600 Thank you. 238 00:14:50,360 --> 00:14:52,080 Amazing! 239 00:14:52,440 --> 00:14:54,480 Yes! Bravo! 240 00:15:19,800 --> 00:15:20,800 Somebody! 241 00:15:23,680 --> 00:15:25,010 Get me some water. 242 00:15:32,080 --> 00:15:33,080 Ming? 243 00:15:35,840 --> 00:15:37,080 Am I dreaming? 244 00:15:41,120 --> 00:15:42,760 Ming, what... 245 00:15:45,720 --> 00:15:46,720 What are you doing here? 246 00:15:47,680 --> 00:15:49,040 What are you trying to do? 247 00:15:49,240 --> 00:15:51,720 Ji Jian Ming said you had something urgent to discuss. 248 00:15:52,600 --> 00:15:54,820 So, I changed into a maid's uniform and rushed over. 249 00:15:55,440 --> 00:15:56,800 But you were drunk and unconscious! 250 00:15:56,880 --> 00:15:58,480 I wanted to ask for some sobering soup, 251 00:15:58,560 --> 00:16:00,400 only to find the door locked from the outside. 252 00:16:04,280 --> 00:16:05,280 You're despicable! 253 00:16:05,480 --> 00:16:06,480 I... 254 00:16:09,200 --> 00:16:11,680 Hang on, Ji Yong was the one who invited me for drinks. 255 00:16:12,080 --> 00:16:13,360 I might have told her about you, 256 00:16:13,680 --> 00:16:15,400 but I never asked him to bring you here. 257 00:16:18,360 --> 00:16:19,360 This won't do. 258 00:16:19,720 --> 00:16:21,370 I'll get Ji Yong here and clear this up. 259 00:16:21,800 --> 00:16:22,800 Ji Yong! 260 00:16:24,000 --> 00:16:25,000 Open the door! 261 00:16:25,120 --> 00:16:26,280 I've tried. 262 00:16:26,680 --> 00:16:27,880 It's locked from the outside. 263 00:16:28,280 --> 00:16:29,280 You can't open it. 264 00:16:30,520 --> 00:16:31,520 Well... 265 00:16:33,120 --> 00:16:34,280 Ming, I... 266 00:16:37,400 --> 00:16:38,780 I didn't mean for this to happen. 267 00:16:39,800 --> 00:16:41,520 I may have a reputation for being a flirt, 268 00:16:41,880 --> 00:16:43,720 but I would never force a woman. 269 00:16:43,920 --> 00:16:44,920 Especially not you, 270 00:16:45,160 --> 00:16:46,200 the woman I love. 271 00:16:47,320 --> 00:16:48,320 I... 272 00:16:49,720 --> 00:16:51,400 But spending a whole night like this, 273 00:16:51,880 --> 00:16:54,400 there'll be no way to explain it. 274 00:16:55,120 --> 00:16:56,790 Who knows who'll open the door tomorrow, 275 00:16:57,120 --> 00:16:59,000 and what kind of rumors will spread after that? 276 00:17:00,120 --> 00:17:02,070 I'll be drowned in gossip and condemnation! 277 00:17:03,000 --> 00:17:07,560 I'll bring shame to my sister, my parents and my grandfather. 278 00:17:10,040 --> 00:17:11,599 I might as well just die now! 279 00:17:12,280 --> 00:17:14,319 No, Ming! 280 00:17:20,400 --> 00:17:23,000 You risked everything to come here for me. 281 00:17:27,960 --> 00:17:29,510 If preserving your honor means dying, 282 00:17:30,350 --> 00:17:32,030 I'll swallow gold and die with you. 283 00:17:32,360 --> 00:17:34,840 No, no! 284 00:17:34,920 --> 00:17:37,040 You're of noble birth. Why would you throw your life away for me? 285 00:17:37,120 --> 00:17:38,840 Ming, I've made a vow before. 286 00:17:39,120 --> 00:17:40,380 I would marry no one but you. 287 00:17:40,700 --> 00:17:42,740 Even if our families tear us apart, 288 00:17:43,040 --> 00:17:44,300 and we are never meant to be husband and wife, 289 00:17:44,380 --> 00:17:45,380 in life or in death, 290 00:17:47,310 --> 00:17:48,710 I'll never abandon you. 291 00:18:08,360 --> 00:18:11,280 Our bodies and hair are gifts from our parents. 292 00:18:11,880 --> 00:18:15,320 This is their will for us, their blessing. 293 00:18:32,680 --> 00:18:33,680 With this lock of hair, 294 00:18:34,120 --> 00:18:35,430 I swear never to betray you. 295 00:18:36,280 --> 00:18:39,120 Since we are unafraid of death, 296 00:18:40,560 --> 00:18:42,280 how can we fear facing our true feelings? 297 00:18:53,360 --> 00:18:54,440 Mission accomplished. 298 00:18:59,360 --> 00:19:00,600 You again, you meddling mantis! 299 00:19:00,800 --> 00:19:01,890 What did I ever do to you? 300 00:19:01,970 --> 00:19:03,320 Have you even considered Dou Zhao's feelings 301 00:19:03,400 --> 00:19:04,690 and what this could do to her situation? 302 00:19:05,800 --> 00:19:08,040 Ordinary people only see what is, not what will be. 303 00:19:08,200 --> 00:19:09,200 I'm helping Dou Zhao. 304 00:19:10,680 --> 00:19:11,680 You... 305 00:19:17,360 --> 00:19:18,360 This is all my fault. 306 00:19:18,520 --> 00:19:20,520 Take it out on me. Leave her alone. 307 00:19:24,430 --> 00:19:25,320 -My Lord? -I'm fine. 308 00:19:25,400 --> 00:19:27,280 -Lu Ming, lock the door. -Yes, My Lord. 309 00:19:27,360 --> 00:19:29,160 -Make sure no one comes in or out. -Got it. 310 00:19:31,400 --> 00:19:33,680 Pei Jin, did they beat you up? 311 00:19:34,040 --> 00:19:37,040 Song Mo, Pei Jin has already resigned from his post at the Imperial Guard. 312 00:19:37,120 --> 00:19:38,720 What gives you the right to lay a hand on him? 313 00:19:38,800 --> 00:19:39,960 Ting Zhen, it's my fault. 314 00:19:40,040 --> 00:19:42,000 Keep your mouth shut and make sure your residence does the same. 315 00:19:42,080 --> 00:19:45,010 The Marquis lost his way late at night and accidentally took a fall. 316 00:19:45,720 --> 00:19:47,160 I kindly escorted him back. 317 00:19:47,760 --> 00:19:50,560 That's the only version anyone is to hear. 318 00:19:57,920 --> 00:20:00,720 If a single word about tonight gets out, 319 00:20:01,480 --> 00:20:03,160 I'll come and cut your tongue. 320 00:20:06,400 --> 00:20:07,400 Understood. 321 00:20:13,400 --> 00:20:14,560 What the hell is going on? 322 00:20:16,440 --> 00:20:18,190 -What are you... -Ting Zhen. 323 00:20:18,440 --> 00:20:19,560 I can't marry Dou Zhao. 324 00:20:20,040 --> 00:20:21,720 Please allow me to marry Dou Ming instead. 325 00:20:21,800 --> 00:20:22,800 You... 326 00:20:27,040 --> 00:20:28,280 Wang Ying Xue, 327 00:20:29,720 --> 00:20:31,280 you wicked woman! 328 00:20:31,760 --> 00:20:33,900 Knowing that your elder daughter couldn't marry in, 329 00:20:34,160 --> 00:20:36,390 you schemed to have the younger one take her place. 330 00:20:36,680 --> 00:20:39,000 You're determined to latch onto our family, aren't you? 331 00:20:41,360 --> 00:20:42,360 My Lord, 332 00:20:42,520 --> 00:20:44,600 he's nothing but a fickle, greedy, 333 00:20:44,760 --> 00:20:46,200 and lecherous scoundrel. 334 00:20:46,440 --> 00:20:48,520 Why not use this opportunity to... 335 00:20:48,600 --> 00:20:50,360 It's true Wei Ting Yu is a scoundrel, 336 00:20:50,960 --> 00:20:52,960 but he's still engaged to Dou Zhao. 337 00:20:53,360 --> 00:20:54,800 If what happened tonight gets out, 338 00:20:55,200 --> 00:20:56,520 the scandal and ridicule 339 00:20:56,880 --> 00:20:58,570 will follow her for the rest of her life. 340 00:20:59,320 --> 00:21:01,370 The Wu family's downfall is a clear warning. 341 00:21:01,560 --> 00:21:03,080 But if you just let Wei Ting Yu go, 342 00:21:03,680 --> 00:21:05,440 doesn't that mean Young Lady Zhao will still have to marry him? 343 00:21:05,520 --> 00:21:06,520 He wouldn't dare! 344 00:21:08,520 --> 00:21:11,010 I'm escorting His Majesty to the Western Hills in a few days. 345 00:21:11,880 --> 00:21:13,250 I'll come up with a plan then. 346 00:21:17,400 --> 00:21:18,400 Mother, 347 00:21:18,760 --> 00:21:21,400 I don't want to go to the temple, please. 348 00:21:22,520 --> 00:21:24,120 Go. 349 00:21:24,560 --> 00:21:25,560 I don't want to go. 350 00:21:25,720 --> 00:21:27,240 -Move. -That's enough. 351 00:21:28,280 --> 00:21:30,030 You'll stay at the temple for a few days. 352 00:21:30,560 --> 00:21:33,080 If anyone asks, we'll say you're there for spiritual practice. 353 00:21:33,440 --> 00:21:36,290 And what happened at Guanghe Restaurant never happened. 354 00:21:36,680 --> 00:21:37,800 Mother, 355 00:21:37,880 --> 00:21:40,040 even though His Lordship and I didn't cross the line, we... 356 00:21:40,120 --> 00:21:42,280 Shut up! You may not have shame, but I do! 357 00:21:44,760 --> 00:21:46,320 I've sent someone 358 00:21:47,370 --> 00:21:49,170 to urge the Wei family to set a date. 359 00:21:49,600 --> 00:21:51,040 For the sake of all three families, 360 00:21:52,070 --> 00:21:53,150 Dou Zhao's wedding 361 00:21:54,120 --> 00:21:55,120 must happen. 362 00:21:56,480 --> 00:21:57,480 Mother! 363 00:21:57,880 --> 00:21:58,880 My whole life, 364 00:21:59,320 --> 00:22:00,760 I've lived cautiously, 365 00:22:01,480 --> 00:22:03,390 always holding back and enduring what I could. 366 00:22:03,630 --> 00:22:04,630 But this time, 367 00:22:05,280 --> 00:22:07,520 His Lordship and I have made a vow to each other. 368 00:22:07,600 --> 00:22:09,240 I just want to be brave for once, 369 00:22:09,320 --> 00:22:11,360 like you were when you fearlessly married Father. 370 00:22:14,390 --> 00:22:16,150 You foolish child. 371 00:22:17,030 --> 00:22:18,030 A man only cherishes 372 00:22:18,480 --> 00:22:21,080 what he has had to fight hard to earn. 373 00:22:22,880 --> 00:22:26,760 I rushed into my marriage in a moment of passion, 374 00:22:27,360 --> 00:22:29,240 and all I've gotten in return is his indifference. 375 00:22:29,320 --> 00:22:32,080 Years of distance and loneliness in this marriage, 376 00:22:32,240 --> 00:22:33,920 haven't you seen enough to understand? 377 00:22:34,120 --> 00:22:35,960 Why would you follow in my footsteps? 378 00:22:36,720 --> 00:22:37,720 Mother, 379 00:22:37,880 --> 00:22:38,960 all my life 380 00:22:39,360 --> 00:22:41,760 you've made me practice calligraphy, study painting, and perfect my manners. 381 00:22:42,430 --> 00:22:44,390 Is it really supposed to make me happier? 382 00:22:44,880 --> 00:22:46,900 Or is it just so I can marry into a prestigious family 383 00:22:46,980 --> 00:22:48,660 and bring you honor? 384 00:22:50,320 --> 00:22:51,320 What did you just say? 385 00:22:51,760 --> 00:22:53,840 You made me embroider so many landscape tapestries, 386 00:22:53,920 --> 00:22:55,320 gifting them all over the capital, 387 00:22:55,800 --> 00:22:58,040 but all you ever did was criticize every mistake I made. 388 00:22:58,360 --> 00:23:00,120 Nothing I did was ever good enough! 389 00:23:01,080 --> 00:23:03,360 But Wei Ting Yu is different. 390 00:23:04,070 --> 00:23:05,750 He saw the scars on my hands, 391 00:23:06,440 --> 00:23:08,040 and told me I was enough. 392 00:23:08,240 --> 00:23:10,360 With him, I don't have to struggle so hard anymore. 393 00:23:11,440 --> 00:23:14,800 I spent over ten years raising you with everything I had, 394 00:23:15,160 --> 00:23:17,880 And now, some sweet words from a man have made you lose your senses? 395 00:23:19,840 --> 00:23:21,320 Let me tell you this one last time, 396 00:23:23,080 --> 00:23:26,360 love is fleeting, 397 00:23:27,080 --> 00:23:28,080 it fades. 398 00:23:28,640 --> 00:23:31,480 The only things that can really protect you 399 00:23:32,200 --> 00:23:33,520 are a man's future 400 00:23:33,880 --> 00:23:34,880 and his wealth! 401 00:23:35,520 --> 00:23:36,520 Mother! 402 00:23:36,850 --> 00:23:38,050 Please, I'm begging you! 403 00:23:38,400 --> 00:23:40,120 I don't want to go, Mother! 404 00:23:40,640 --> 00:23:41,680 Mother! 405 00:23:42,400 --> 00:23:43,800 Once your sister marries him, 406 00:23:44,360 --> 00:23:45,890 you'll wake from this dream. 407 00:23:46,160 --> 00:23:47,160 Take her inside! 408 00:23:47,560 --> 00:23:50,190 -Mother... -Come on, Ming. 409 00:23:50,280 --> 00:23:51,840 Mother, don't send me away! 410 00:23:51,920 --> 00:23:53,960 -Move, Ming. -Mother! 411 00:23:54,200 --> 00:23:56,960 -Come on. -Mother, don't send me away! 412 00:23:57,240 --> 00:23:58,240 Mother! 413 00:23:59,360 --> 00:24:01,240 No, Mother! 414 00:24:02,240 --> 00:24:03,320 Mother! 415 00:24:03,960 --> 00:24:05,040 Mother! 416 00:24:17,960 --> 00:24:18,960 Madam. 417 00:24:20,080 --> 00:24:21,720 Oh, you're here. Have a seat. 418 00:24:28,600 --> 00:24:29,760 Your Grace, 419 00:24:30,040 --> 00:24:31,120 I've come today 420 00:24:31,200 --> 00:24:33,920 to talk about the wedding. 421 00:24:35,400 --> 00:24:36,640 This tea 422 00:24:38,280 --> 00:24:39,540 smells delightful. 423 00:24:42,770 --> 00:24:44,890 But when you drink it, it's bland and flavorless. 424 00:24:45,600 --> 00:24:48,480 Could it be that someone's swapped it for an inferior brew? 425 00:24:49,240 --> 00:24:50,860 Please, Your Grace, you must believe us, 426 00:24:51,000 --> 00:24:52,800 it wasn't swapped by us. 427 00:24:53,120 --> 00:24:54,360 It must have been an outsider. 428 00:24:55,940 --> 00:24:56,940 Your Grace, 429 00:24:57,160 --> 00:25:00,360 I came here specifically to clear up this misunderstanding. 430 00:25:00,600 --> 00:25:01,600 Misunderstanding? 431 00:25:01,800 --> 00:25:03,720 Don't think I don't know about your schemes. 432 00:25:04,160 --> 00:25:06,760 Your family seems intent on clinging to our family. 433 00:25:07,000 --> 00:25:09,480 When one plan fails, you push another. 434 00:25:10,040 --> 00:25:12,760 Let me tell you, we aren't so easily fooled. 435 00:25:15,160 --> 00:25:16,160 Your Grace, 436 00:25:16,600 --> 00:25:17,640 please calm down. 437 00:25:19,120 --> 00:25:20,320 I'm here to tell you 438 00:25:20,800 --> 00:25:22,680 that Dou Zhao is not only virtuous 439 00:25:23,120 --> 00:25:24,840 but also possesses a considerable fortune. 440 00:25:25,200 --> 00:25:27,960 With her assets, you'll enjoy a life of endless luxury. 441 00:25:28,130 --> 00:25:29,130 Think about it, 442 00:25:29,480 --> 00:25:30,960 when she's married into your family, 443 00:25:31,040 --> 00:25:32,040 all of that wealth 444 00:25:32,560 --> 00:25:35,320 will be at your disposal. 445 00:25:39,760 --> 00:25:41,320 As for her health, 446 00:25:42,840 --> 00:25:45,160 with proper care, 447 00:25:46,000 --> 00:25:47,400 she'll recover in time. 448 00:25:47,920 --> 00:25:48,920 Please try it again. 449 00:25:53,880 --> 00:25:55,440 I've chosen the perfect date, 450 00:25:55,880 --> 00:25:58,920 ten days from now would be a perfect day for the wedding. 451 00:26:07,240 --> 00:26:09,970 Ruining someone's reputation and benefiting at their expense! 452 00:26:10,160 --> 00:26:12,240 You think you're the smartest person in the world, don't you? 453 00:26:12,320 --> 00:26:13,920 For someone who's read the classics, 454 00:26:14,000 --> 00:26:15,520 you sure act like you're above everyone else. 455 00:26:15,600 --> 00:26:17,040 You are reckless and thoughtless. 456 00:26:17,400 --> 00:26:18,920 Good thing things didn't blow up this time. 457 00:26:19,000 --> 00:26:20,000 If they had, 458 00:26:20,160 --> 00:26:21,980 do you think Dou Ming would still be alive? 459 00:26:22,440 --> 00:26:24,120 If you keep worrying about this and that, 460 00:26:24,200 --> 00:26:25,720 then you deserve to suffer. 461 00:26:26,280 --> 00:26:27,800 If you were willing to marry Wei Ting Yu, 462 00:26:27,880 --> 00:26:29,560 I wouldn't have had to resort to these ridiculous schemes. 463 00:26:29,680 --> 00:26:30,760 I don't want to marry him, 464 00:26:31,160 --> 00:26:32,520 but I had a foolproof plan. 465 00:26:32,960 --> 00:26:35,920 It was all under control until you interfered. 466 00:26:36,400 --> 00:26:38,680 Your so-called plans were either faking illness or death. 467 00:26:38,760 --> 00:26:40,160 You call that foolproof? 468 00:26:40,880 --> 00:26:43,520 At least I've never hurt others for my own selfish desires. 469 00:26:44,080 --> 00:26:45,080 How is what you've done 470 00:26:45,680 --> 00:26:47,810 any different from what Wang Ying Xue did back then? 471 00:26:48,200 --> 00:26:49,890 You're comparing me to Wang Ying Xue? 472 00:26:50,040 --> 00:26:51,280 My way is quick and effective. 473 00:26:51,560 --> 00:26:52,680 You got your wish to break off the engagement, 474 00:26:52,800 --> 00:26:55,520 so what if Dou Ming and Wei Ting Yu have to endure a little of gossip? 475 00:26:55,760 --> 00:26:57,680 If it weren't for Song Mo, that meddling mantis, 476 00:26:57,790 --> 00:27:00,270 they'd be thanking me and inviting me to their wedding feast. 477 00:27:00,600 --> 00:27:02,160 Everything I've done has been for you. 478 00:27:02,360 --> 00:27:03,600 If Song Mo hadn't interfered, 479 00:27:04,240 --> 00:27:05,920 you would've ruined our entire family. 480 00:27:06,400 --> 00:27:08,520 You keep saying you're doing this for me, 481 00:27:08,800 --> 00:27:11,080 but have you ever stopped to think about what I actually want? 482 00:27:11,150 --> 00:27:12,630 Whatever you think doesn't matter. 483 00:27:13,240 --> 00:27:15,120 If you and Wei Ting Yu really end up married, 484 00:27:15,520 --> 00:27:17,880 do you honestly believe they won't cheat on you? 485 00:27:22,040 --> 00:27:23,040 Don't worry. 486 00:27:23,200 --> 00:27:25,760 The doctor said she doesn't have much time left. 487 00:27:26,160 --> 00:27:27,960 Once she's gone and the mourning period is over, 488 00:27:28,040 --> 00:27:29,040 I'll marry you. 489 00:27:31,560 --> 00:27:34,120 All I did was speed up the inevitable. 490 00:27:34,760 --> 00:27:36,760 If you don't cut ties with Wei Ting Yu that jerk, 491 00:27:37,280 --> 00:27:38,760 you'll be the one suffering later. 492 00:27:39,630 --> 00:27:41,070 I just don't want to see you 493 00:27:41,670 --> 00:27:42,670 heartbroken and in tears. 494 00:27:44,920 --> 00:27:45,920 You're right. 495 00:27:46,680 --> 00:27:47,940 You're right about everything, 496 00:27:48,840 --> 00:27:50,180 but I don't want to hear it. 497 00:27:51,200 --> 00:27:53,520 My world is too small for someone like you. 498 00:27:53,880 --> 00:27:55,590 I don't want to associate with someone who would 499 00:27:55,670 --> 00:27:57,770 ruin others' reputations just to achieve their goals. 500 00:27:59,960 --> 00:28:01,000 From this moment on, 501 00:28:02,280 --> 00:28:04,950 you go your way, and I'll go mine. 502 00:28:06,640 --> 00:28:07,640 Fine, Dou Zhao. 503 00:28:08,000 --> 00:28:09,440 But if trouble comes your way, 504 00:28:09,520 --> 00:28:10,710 don't come running to me. 505 00:28:27,720 --> 00:28:29,200 We just brought Young Lady Ming back. 506 00:28:29,560 --> 00:28:31,240 And when we weren't looking, she just... 507 00:28:33,840 --> 00:28:34,840 Ming... 508 00:28:35,720 --> 00:28:36,720 Ming! 509 00:28:41,400 --> 00:28:42,680 You will keep this to yourself. 510 00:28:46,080 --> 00:28:47,080 Thank heavens. 511 00:28:47,640 --> 00:28:49,400 Quickly, bring Young Lady a cup of tea. 512 00:28:49,760 --> 00:28:50,760 Yes, Madam. 513 00:28:51,480 --> 00:28:52,560 Are you alright, Ming? 514 00:28:53,040 --> 00:28:54,040 Mother, 515 00:28:54,760 --> 00:28:55,840 I'm sorry. 516 00:28:56,960 --> 00:28:58,360 Just let me die. 517 00:28:58,440 --> 00:28:59,440 No. 518 00:29:00,520 --> 00:29:01,520 No. 519 00:29:02,040 --> 00:29:03,040 Silly girl. 520 00:29:03,720 --> 00:29:04,720 No man in the world 521 00:29:05,190 --> 00:29:07,830 is worth sacrificing your life for, 522 00:29:08,400 --> 00:29:10,160 especially not Wei Ting Yu. 523 00:29:10,640 --> 00:29:12,360 Maybe he isn't good enough, 524 00:29:13,360 --> 00:29:15,680 but... what's poison to one 525 00:29:16,760 --> 00:29:18,000 is honey to another. 526 00:29:20,080 --> 00:29:21,760 When we pledged ourselves to each other, 527 00:29:22,390 --> 00:29:23,670 we swore that 528 00:29:24,600 --> 00:29:26,450 if we couldn't stay together in life, 529 00:29:27,590 --> 00:29:28,910 we'll be together in death. 530 00:29:29,440 --> 00:29:30,440 No... 531 00:29:31,440 --> 00:29:32,440 No! 532 00:29:44,010 --> 00:29:45,600 (Western Hills Palace) 533 00:29:45,680 --> 00:29:48,080 Song Mo, there are five or six routes here, 534 00:29:48,520 --> 00:29:49,920 yet you deliberately took a detour 535 00:29:50,040 --> 00:29:53,560 so I would see the barren lands and the people stripping bark from trees 536 00:29:53,920 --> 00:29:55,600 on the Marquis of Jining's territories. 537 00:29:56,840 --> 00:29:58,600 Your actions are clearly aimed at him. 538 00:29:59,600 --> 00:30:02,880 How dare you abuse your position like this! 539 00:30:04,670 --> 00:30:07,210 It's true that I had personal motives in choosing this route, 540 00:30:07,720 --> 00:30:09,030 but what Your Majesty witnessed today 541 00:30:09,110 --> 00:30:11,630 is the result of the Duchess of Jing forcibly requisitioning that land 542 00:30:11,760 --> 00:30:13,480 to fund the Marquis of Jining's wedding. 543 00:30:13,680 --> 00:30:14,680 The tenant farmers 544 00:30:14,800 --> 00:30:16,750 don't even have seeds left for spring planting. 545 00:30:16,880 --> 00:30:17,880 This is the truth, 546 00:30:18,360 --> 00:30:19,630 not something I fabricated. 547 00:30:20,280 --> 00:30:22,030 When the nobility exploit the common people 548 00:30:22,110 --> 00:30:23,600 to celebrate their joyous occasions, 549 00:30:23,760 --> 00:30:24,850 it sets a dangerous precedent. 550 00:30:25,120 --> 00:30:26,920 Other aristocrats will follow suit, 551 00:30:27,560 --> 00:30:29,770 and the public's resentment will grow harder to quell. 552 00:30:30,240 --> 00:30:31,460 Your Majesty, you are wise. 553 00:30:31,720 --> 00:30:33,640 Wei Ting Yu has lived off his hereditary stipend for years 554 00:30:33,710 --> 00:30:35,230 without contributing to the nation. 555 00:30:35,560 --> 00:30:37,340 He's repeatedly acted in disgraceful ways. 556 00:30:37,600 --> 00:30:38,930 He is unworthy of marrying the top-ranked lady 557 00:30:39,010 --> 00:30:40,230 from the etiquette competition. 558 00:30:41,280 --> 00:30:42,440 You're well aware 559 00:30:43,560 --> 00:30:46,520 that I intend to marry Princess Jingyu to you. 560 00:30:47,640 --> 00:30:49,440 Are you implying you wish to marry Dou Zhao? 561 00:30:50,240 --> 00:30:52,800 Their families have completed the betrothal rituals. 562 00:30:53,000 --> 00:30:54,800 Do you think you can disrupt this as you please? 563 00:30:54,920 --> 00:30:56,080 Kneel as long as you like, 564 00:30:57,680 --> 00:30:58,910 but it won't change anything. 565 00:30:59,200 --> 00:31:01,120 Dou Zhao has been forced by her elders to comply with this engagement, 566 00:31:01,200 --> 00:31:02,890 despite several attempts to break it off. 567 00:31:03,200 --> 00:31:06,280 I've lost nearly everyone I've ever wished to protect or save. 568 00:31:07,080 --> 00:31:08,800 This is the one wish I have left. 569 00:31:09,600 --> 00:31:12,130 It neither undermines imperial authority nor harms anyone else. 570 00:31:13,000 --> 00:31:14,920 I only ask that the person I care for most 571 00:31:15,270 --> 00:31:16,990 be granted one chance at true happiness. 572 00:31:37,000 --> 00:31:38,680 When the bridal sedan crosses the bridge, 573 00:31:38,760 --> 00:31:40,280 I'll set it on fire with this. 574 00:31:41,280 --> 00:31:43,640 You'll push the burning sedan into the water, 575 00:31:44,000 --> 00:31:45,610 and I'll escape by pretending to drown. 576 00:31:47,040 --> 00:31:49,360 This is covered in flint dust, 577 00:31:49,640 --> 00:31:51,680 and you'll have to jump into the water. 578 00:31:52,280 --> 00:31:55,440 This is a dangerously risky plan. 579 00:31:56,120 --> 00:31:59,680 Why won't you ask Old Madam Cui for help, Young Lady? 580 00:32:00,920 --> 00:32:02,250 Grandmother is getting older, 581 00:32:02,800 --> 00:32:04,520 and she has been unwell for years. 582 00:32:06,120 --> 00:32:08,160 I don't want to burden her with any more worries. 583 00:32:12,920 --> 00:32:13,920 Young Lady, 584 00:32:14,200 --> 00:32:16,000 Wang Ying Xue has sent some maids 585 00:32:16,320 --> 00:32:17,950 to purchase wedding attire and jewelry. 586 00:32:19,360 --> 00:32:21,000 The wedding isn't happening anyway. 587 00:32:21,560 --> 00:32:24,040 If she wants to play the role of the mistress of the house, let her. 588 00:32:24,110 --> 00:32:27,120 Our sources told us that Wang Ying Xue hired the finest tailor 589 00:32:27,320 --> 00:32:28,620 to make an extra wedding dress, 590 00:32:28,920 --> 00:32:30,080 but it's not in your size. 591 00:32:38,640 --> 00:32:40,090 Since the founding of our dynasty, 592 00:32:41,040 --> 00:32:42,040 women 593 00:32:42,640 --> 00:32:43,920 have only been allowed to wear 594 00:32:44,720 --> 00:32:46,470 this phoenix coronet on their wedding day. 595 00:32:47,800 --> 00:32:49,280 I've never had the chance to wear it. 596 00:32:52,960 --> 00:32:54,760 I hope that when you wear it tomorrow, 597 00:32:55,720 --> 00:32:57,840 it will bring you a lifetime of peace and happiness. 598 00:33:04,760 --> 00:33:05,760 Mother, 599 00:33:07,120 --> 00:33:09,050 do you really want me to take her place? 600 00:33:13,440 --> 00:33:14,440 Ming, 601 00:33:17,720 --> 00:33:19,020 you are my flesh and blood, 602 00:33:20,360 --> 00:33:21,660 my very life. 603 00:33:22,240 --> 00:33:24,200 How could I bear to see you die? 604 00:33:24,840 --> 00:33:25,840 Mother... 605 00:33:46,200 --> 00:33:47,520 Dou Ming's voice is hoarse. 606 00:33:48,180 --> 00:33:50,050 She must have harmed herself in resistance. 607 00:33:50,760 --> 00:33:52,040 Wang Ying Xue had no choice 608 00:33:53,000 --> 00:33:55,000 but to give in because she's her own daughter. 609 00:33:56,520 --> 00:33:57,540 That works out then. 610 00:33:57,630 --> 00:33:59,910 You don't have to put yourself in danger now, Young Lady. 611 00:34:00,160 --> 00:34:03,800 But you don't look particularly happy about it either. 612 00:34:05,120 --> 00:34:07,470 I've done everything I can to break off this engagement, 613 00:34:08,040 --> 00:34:10,570 while she's done everything she can to marry the man she loves. 614 00:34:10,880 --> 00:34:12,449 We're both fighting for what we want. 615 00:34:14,520 --> 00:34:16,130 But the Marquis of Jining's household 616 00:34:16,440 --> 00:34:17,760 is rotten to the core, 617 00:34:18,920 --> 00:34:20,800 and Wei Ting Yu is an unreliable man. 618 00:34:23,199 --> 00:34:25,560 Dou Ming has never wronged me in this life. 619 00:34:26,639 --> 00:34:28,719 I can't just stand by and watch her walk into hell. 620 00:34:37,560 --> 00:34:39,560 (Dou's Residence) 621 00:34:39,639 --> 00:34:40,800 Congratulations! 622 00:34:42,560 --> 00:34:43,560 The Marquis is here! 623 00:34:43,760 --> 00:34:44,760 How grand! 624 00:34:45,120 --> 00:34:46,120 Congratulations, My Lord! 625 00:34:46,520 --> 00:34:47,600 Congratulations, My Lord! 626 00:34:47,679 --> 00:34:49,040 Congratulations! 627 00:35:07,400 --> 00:35:08,400 Zhao. 628 00:35:11,760 --> 00:35:13,480 The ceremony will take all day. 629 00:35:14,760 --> 00:35:15,760 You might get hungry, 630 00:35:16,080 --> 00:35:17,560 so I prepared some food for you. 631 00:35:23,440 --> 00:35:24,440 Su Lan, 632 00:35:24,720 --> 00:35:25,720 leave us. 633 00:35:26,120 --> 00:35:27,120 Yes, Young Lady. 634 00:35:36,880 --> 00:35:38,280 This is lotus seed and lily soup. 635 00:35:39,280 --> 00:35:41,200 It symbolizes a long and harmonious marriage 636 00:35:41,280 --> 00:35:42,600 filled with happiness and peace. 637 00:35:45,160 --> 00:35:47,520 I wish the same for you, happiness and peace, 638 00:35:48,240 --> 00:35:49,930 and that you'll find a man you love. 639 00:35:59,000 --> 00:36:00,240 Congratulations! 640 00:36:04,280 --> 00:36:05,670 It's a shame Ming is still unwell 641 00:36:05,760 --> 00:36:08,670 and couldn't see her sister get married. 642 00:36:09,280 --> 00:36:10,530 But don't worry, Shi Ying, 643 00:36:11,320 --> 00:36:14,480 I'll find a good match for Ming as well. 644 00:36:23,920 --> 00:36:25,600 I thought she had some brilliant plan, 645 00:36:26,040 --> 00:36:27,930 but in the end, she still has to marry him. 646 00:36:31,560 --> 00:36:32,560 Wait! 647 00:36:37,720 --> 00:36:38,720 You have to 648 00:36:40,280 --> 00:36:41,690 take good care of yourself there. 649 00:36:42,400 --> 00:36:43,400 Go on. 650 00:36:52,240 --> 00:36:53,440 So, she used a substitute. 651 00:36:58,480 --> 00:37:00,690 As expected, Young Master Ji, you're the clever one. 652 00:37:02,520 --> 00:37:05,160 The question is, is certain someone clever enough to realize it? 653 00:37:17,080 --> 00:37:18,080 Wait! 654 00:37:38,400 --> 00:37:39,400 My Lord, 655 00:37:39,640 --> 00:37:40,760 this is my wedding. 656 00:37:41,680 --> 00:37:42,830 What are you trying to do? 657 00:37:45,000 --> 00:37:46,390 You fool, don't do anything stupid. 658 00:37:46,470 --> 00:37:47,470 -Do you know... -I know. 659 00:37:47,760 --> 00:37:48,760 That's not Dou Zhao. 660 00:37:49,640 --> 00:37:50,880 Why did you stop them then? 661 00:37:51,720 --> 00:37:52,720 I only just found out. 662 00:37:53,880 --> 00:37:54,880 I knew it, 663 00:37:55,120 --> 00:37:56,750 she'd never actually marry Wei Ting Yu. 664 00:38:00,600 --> 00:38:01,760 It's someone else's wedding. 665 00:38:02,160 --> 00:38:04,200 I've heard there's some bad blood between their families. 666 00:38:04,280 --> 00:38:05,280 Really? 667 00:38:05,360 --> 00:38:06,600 What are they doing in there? 668 00:38:06,680 --> 00:38:07,800 What's up with them? 669 00:38:29,880 --> 00:38:31,760 Those who join in matrimony, 670 00:38:33,120 --> 00:38:34,880 how many of them really love each other? 671 00:38:36,080 --> 00:38:38,350 Most are just resentful matches made out of obligation. 672 00:38:42,480 --> 00:38:44,480 Lovers lament the long night, 673 00:38:45,880 --> 00:38:49,440 tormented by thoughts of one another. 674 00:38:51,080 --> 00:38:53,560 Too fragile to give as a gift, 675 00:38:54,640 --> 00:38:57,920 yet I dream of a perfect reunion. 676 00:39:15,280 --> 00:39:16,280 Ming! 677 00:39:16,960 --> 00:39:17,960 It's really you! 678 00:39:28,760 --> 00:39:31,000 This is wonderful! How did heaven send you to me? 679 00:39:39,080 --> 00:39:40,280 That's an important soup. 680 00:39:41,000 --> 00:39:42,000 I'm sure there's more. 681 00:39:42,600 --> 00:39:43,600 Go and get another bowl. 682 00:39:44,880 --> 00:39:46,920 Zhao, I'm too ashamed to face you. 683 00:39:47,240 --> 00:39:48,600 I didn't want to do this to you. 684 00:39:51,920 --> 00:39:52,920 Dou Ming, 685 00:39:53,440 --> 00:39:55,920 marriage is a lifelong matter that determines your happiness or suffering. 686 00:39:56,040 --> 00:39:57,330 You must think it through. 687 00:39:57,560 --> 00:39:59,710 The Marquis of Jining's household is a pit of vipers. 688 00:40:00,760 --> 00:40:02,440 Wei Ting Yu is not a good man. 689 00:40:02,920 --> 00:40:04,040 If you marry him, 690 00:40:04,160 --> 00:40:06,400 you may end up spending your life managing the household. 691 00:40:06,480 --> 00:40:09,450 You'll likely come to see his cowardice and weakness for what they are. 692 00:40:10,120 --> 00:40:11,760 You may suffer greatly, 693 00:40:12,080 --> 00:40:13,910 and your relationship might even fall apart. 694 00:40:14,120 --> 00:40:15,560 Have you thought about all of that? 695 00:40:16,280 --> 00:40:17,520 If you change your mind now, 696 00:40:18,000 --> 00:40:19,080 I can still fix things. 697 00:40:21,520 --> 00:40:22,560 All my life, 698 00:40:23,720 --> 00:40:25,040 I've done what Mother wanted. 699 00:40:26,560 --> 00:40:29,880 I've tried to be the daughter she's proud of. 700 00:40:30,880 --> 00:40:32,320 But no one has ever cared 701 00:40:32,870 --> 00:40:34,030 about what I think 702 00:40:34,840 --> 00:40:36,000 or what I want. 703 00:40:37,880 --> 00:40:40,480 Young Master Wei is the first person 704 00:40:41,360 --> 00:40:44,840 who really appreciates me for who I am. 705 00:40:47,480 --> 00:40:48,720 I love him. 706 00:40:50,670 --> 00:40:52,430 He's not as terrible as you think. 707 00:40:53,760 --> 00:40:55,530 He's just been suppressed by his sister. 708 00:40:55,760 --> 00:40:58,000 He even stood up to her for my sake. 709 00:40:58,960 --> 00:41:00,120 He cares for me. 710 00:41:00,560 --> 00:41:01,730 And he's trying hard for me. 711 00:41:01,880 --> 00:41:03,680 I believe people can change. 712 00:41:04,440 --> 00:41:05,440 I'm changing, 713 00:41:05,760 --> 00:41:06,760 and so is he. 714 00:41:07,960 --> 00:41:10,120 He has dismissed his concubines for me. 715 00:41:11,360 --> 00:41:12,360 Isn't it possible 716 00:41:13,080 --> 00:41:14,720 that people grow better 717 00:41:14,920 --> 00:41:16,280 through their experiences? 718 00:41:18,640 --> 00:41:19,640 Change... 719 00:41:21,720 --> 00:41:22,720 This time, 720 00:41:23,840 --> 00:41:25,810 instead of following anyone else's expectations, 721 00:41:25,950 --> 00:41:27,890 I'm going with 722 00:41:29,360 --> 00:41:30,360 what my heart wants. 723 00:41:31,760 --> 00:41:33,530 Since you're determined to marry him, 724 00:41:34,470 --> 00:41:35,470 I'll step aside for you. 725 00:41:37,000 --> 00:41:39,760 -No, I can't. -Just do it before someone comes. 726 00:41:39,920 --> 00:41:41,440 -Come on, do it. -I'm scared. 727 00:41:41,640 --> 00:41:43,040 -Now. -No. 728 00:41:45,880 --> 00:41:46,880 Zhao! 729 00:41:47,680 --> 00:41:49,520 Are you alright? Did I hit you too hard? 730 00:41:49,600 --> 00:41:51,440 I can't believe you really went all out. 731 00:41:53,280 --> 00:41:54,640 I'm so sorry, Zhao. 732 00:41:57,280 --> 00:41:58,280 Slowly. 733 00:42:07,160 --> 00:42:09,360 I owe you a debt of gratitude I can never repay, Zhao. 734 00:42:10,280 --> 00:42:12,280 If blessings are really finite, 735 00:42:13,200 --> 00:42:15,520 I'd gladly give mine to you. 736 00:42:18,440 --> 00:42:19,720 I knocked out my sister 737 00:42:19,800 --> 00:42:21,080 and married you in her place. 738 00:42:21,360 --> 00:42:22,840 Tomorrow, the world will mock me 739 00:42:22,980 --> 00:42:25,020 for being shameless and betraying my family. 740 00:42:27,040 --> 00:42:28,040 My love, 741 00:42:28,600 --> 00:42:30,480 you committed such a bold act for me. 742 00:42:31,400 --> 00:42:32,400 I will never forget 743 00:42:33,480 --> 00:42:34,600 such sacrifice. 744 00:42:36,000 --> 00:42:38,640 No matter how many hardships come our away after this, 745 00:42:39,160 --> 00:42:40,400 I will protect you. 746 00:42:40,680 --> 00:42:42,160 I'll never let anyone wrong you. 747 00:43:11,240 --> 00:43:13,480 We should convince the Wei family to formally accept this marriage. 748 00:43:13,560 --> 00:43:15,760 Shou Gu was supposed to marry into their family anyway. 749 00:43:15,840 --> 00:43:18,080 Adding her dowry to Ming's is only fair, isn't it? 750 00:43:18,160 --> 00:43:19,240 Now that this has happened, 751 00:43:19,720 --> 00:43:21,520 you're demanding me, the victim, to be the bigger person? 752 00:43:21,600 --> 00:43:22,840 Do you not care about our reputation? 753 00:43:22,960 --> 00:43:23,940 Shut up! 754 00:43:24,020 --> 00:43:25,790 Has any of you bothered to think about if this is fair for Shou Gu? 755 00:43:25,870 --> 00:43:27,830 Dou Zhao, I'll marry you.