1 00:00:01,020 --> 00:00:10,970 Timing and Subtitles by the "Are You My Soulmate?" Team @ Viki 2 00:00:29,190 --> 00:00:33,230 song title 3 00:00:33,230 --> 00:00:39,680 ♫ Flowers falling by the river again ♫ ♫ Turning the clear waves red ♫ 4 00:00:39,680 --> 00:00:46,200 ♫ Sparrows singing in celebration ♫ 5 00:00:46,200 --> 00:00:52,830 ♫ Calm years pass by the silent bustling city ♫ ♫ Sitting at home ♫ 6 00:00:52,830 --> 00:00:58,450 ♫ No one knows love's outline like I do ♫ 7 00:00:58,450 --> 00:01:04,900 ♫ If one day the river breeze blows again ♫ 8 00:01:04,900 --> 00:01:11,470 ♫ I won't be a mere reflection in the mirror ♫ 9 00:01:11,470 --> 00:01:17,980 ♫ Dreams can shatter; Memories remain ♫ 10 00:01:17,980 --> 00:01:21,230 ♫ Rich fragrance aids; Light ink writes ♫ 11 00:01:21,230 --> 00:01:29,890 ♫ In the deep red windows lies mundane dust ♫ 12 00:01:33,370 --> 00:01:40,800 Are You the One 13 00:01:40,800 --> 00:01:44,280 [Episode 23] 14 00:01:44,280 --> 00:01:49,070 So, Ziyu didn't send you here. 15 00:01:49,070 --> 00:01:51,810 You're here for the silver. 16 00:01:53,430 --> 00:01:55,440 How did you have it? 17 00:01:55,440 --> 00:01:57,380 This dagger? 18 00:01:57,920 --> 00:02:02,740 -Ziyu gave it to me, so I have it. -Impossible. 19 00:02:02,740 --> 00:02:06,140 - I've already... - You've already taken it away. 20 00:02:06,760 --> 00:02:11,230 Since you can find where I am, I can find you too. 21 00:02:11,230 --> 00:02:16,390 Then, I'll take back what's mine, 22 00:02:16,390 --> 00:02:18,980 like what I did to Cao Duo. 23 00:02:18,980 --> 00:02:22,810 He's repaid what he owes me. 24 00:02:24,420 --> 00:02:28,210 So you killed Cao Duo, not Lord Huaiyang? 25 00:02:28,210 --> 00:02:30,370 True. 26 00:02:30,370 --> 00:02:33,930 Cao Duo remained loyal to you until his death. 27 00:02:33,930 --> 00:02:39,280 Yun'er, you truly raised a well-behaved lapdog. 28 00:02:42,280 --> 00:02:46,580 But now, I dare not act against you. 29 00:02:46,580 --> 00:02:49,300 One must consider the master when hitting the dog. 30 00:02:49,300 --> 00:02:54,490 After all, when I found this dagger in the mansion, 31 00:02:54,490 --> 00:02:57,710 I saw a remarkable man. 32 00:02:58,630 --> 00:03:00,490 Prince Sui. 33 00:03:00,490 --> 00:03:02,910 Once the young master succeeds, 34 00:03:03,500 --> 00:03:07,180 Prince Sui will be the most powerful person. 35 00:03:08,160 --> 00:03:11,100 He'll remove the roots then. 36 00:03:11,100 --> 00:03:14,720 But if you beg him, he will generously 37 00:03:14,720 --> 00:03:19,640 bury you with 20 people from Pingyuan Escort Agency. 38 00:03:20,480 --> 00:03:23,560 - Why are you laughing? - You're stupid. 39 00:03:24,600 --> 00:03:27,220 Look at this dagger. 40 00:03:27,220 --> 00:03:29,940 Is it the same as before? 41 00:03:30,440 --> 00:03:33,340 You fooled me. You knew nothing. 42 00:03:33,340 --> 00:03:38,240 Now, I know everything. 43 00:03:45,400 --> 00:03:47,140 My Lord. 44 00:03:48,020 --> 00:03:49,640 My Lord. 45 00:03:49,640 --> 00:03:53,380 My Lord. We've found a cave over there, with clay marks at the entrance. 46 00:03:53,380 --> 00:03:55,680 Some of you, follow me. Others, follow Huang Gui. 47 00:03:55,680 --> 00:03:58,560 - Check for other routes to the cave. - Yes. 48 00:03:58,560 --> 00:04:02,840 I thought you'd at least be loyal to Mount Yang. 49 00:04:02,840 --> 00:04:05,880 Do you enjoy being a commoner? 50 00:04:05,880 --> 00:04:09,580 The young master is trapped here due to bad luck. 51 00:04:09,580 --> 00:04:11,350 Do you really think he likes it here? 52 00:04:11,350 --> 00:04:15,840 Does he know it was Prince Sui's order to kill his brothers in Xizhou? 53 00:04:15,840 --> 00:04:19,940 When Prince Sui came to ally with us, we all knew he had ulterior motives. 54 00:04:19,940 --> 00:04:24,900 Sister's actions were truly for the young master's benefit. 55 00:04:24,900 --> 00:04:26,740 For his benefit? 56 00:04:28,100 --> 00:04:30,820 Because of your good intentions, 57 00:04:31,360 --> 00:04:36,580 the young master hesitated, and never took decisive action. 58 00:04:37,760 --> 00:04:40,360 Engaged in a dangerous game, so what? 59 00:04:40,360 --> 00:04:43,500 Do you really think he has no courage at all? 60 00:04:44,360 --> 00:04:46,700 Then does he know exactly 61 00:04:46,700 --> 00:04:49,560 what happened on Shangsi Festival? 62 00:04:50,660 --> 00:04:54,720 At that night, you faked the orders to attack 63 00:04:54,720 --> 00:04:59,740 Zhenzhou troops, causing them to retaliate. 64 00:04:59,740 --> 00:05:04,280 Your provocation drove Mount Yang into a desperate battle, 65 00:05:04,280 --> 00:05:07,980 severely weakening them, and forcing them to ally with Prince Sui. 66 00:05:07,980 --> 00:05:11,500 You wanted to take over the iron mine, 67 00:05:11,500 --> 00:05:14,380 so you had Cao Duo sever my tendons, trying to kill me. 68 00:05:14,380 --> 00:05:16,800 Does Ziyu know all this? 69 00:05:17,440 --> 00:05:20,040 You care about Ziyu so much. 70 00:05:20,040 --> 00:05:22,360 If he knew all this, 71 00:05:22,360 --> 00:05:25,260 how would he treat you? 72 00:05:25,260 --> 00:05:27,380 Liu Miantang, 73 00:05:28,000 --> 00:05:31,380 do you think he truly knows nothing? 74 00:05:34,480 --> 00:05:39,440 At the end of the day, you and I are both equally pathetic. 75 00:05:44,940 --> 00:05:46,820 Kill her! 76 00:05:47,440 --> 00:05:49,260 Go get her! 77 00:06:50,980 --> 00:06:52,720 Save me... 78 00:06:54,860 --> 00:06:56,580 [Sui] 79 00:07:02,200 --> 00:07:04,040 Go ahead. I'll meet you at the old spot. 80 00:07:04,040 --> 00:07:05,880 Miantang! 81 00:07:09,700 --> 00:07:11,050 -Go. -- Sister. 82 00:07:11,050 --> 00:07:12,850 Go. 83 00:07:13,500 --> 00:07:15,140 Let's go. 84 00:07:21,000 --> 00:07:23,600 These bags hold kerosene. 85 00:07:24,180 --> 00:07:26,370 If you take another step, 86 00:07:26,370 --> 00:07:30,040 I'll shoot through them, and drench you all. 87 00:07:30,040 --> 00:07:35,640 Let the Zhenzhou troops see their lord turn to charcoal. 88 00:07:35,640 --> 00:07:37,260 I'll do what I said. 89 00:07:37,260 --> 00:07:39,300 My Lord! 90 00:07:41,980 --> 00:07:45,560 - My Lord! - Soldiers, listen up. Retreat to the base. 91 00:07:45,560 --> 00:07:47,460 - My Lord... - Now. 92 00:07:47,460 --> 00:07:49,740 - Yes. - Retreat. 93 00:07:49,740 --> 00:07:51,780 Retreat now. 94 00:08:30,660 --> 00:08:32,740 When did you find out? 95 00:08:36,700 --> 00:08:40,620 You didn't seem surprised to see me. 96 00:08:40,620 --> 00:08:45,060 You stayed because you knew the Zhenzhou troops were here. 97 00:08:45,060 --> 00:08:47,680 You wanted to buy time for your men, right? 98 00:08:47,680 --> 00:08:49,500 Yes. 99 00:08:49,500 --> 00:08:51,840 Even if it meant I'd kill you? 100 00:08:53,400 --> 00:08:55,040 Yes. 101 00:08:57,740 --> 00:08:59,580 Then what about you? 102 00:08:59,580 --> 00:09:04,040 You knew my identity and that it was a trap. 103 00:09:04,980 --> 00:09:06,980 Why did you still come here? 104 00:09:08,340 --> 00:09:10,890 I find it ridiculous too, 105 00:09:10,890 --> 00:09:16,030 but I wanted to see if you would relent. 106 00:09:16,030 --> 00:09:18,240 Liu Miantang, tell me. 107 00:09:19,180 --> 00:09:21,760 When the fire burned, 108 00:09:23,460 --> 00:09:26,620 did you have any regret? 109 00:09:32,960 --> 00:09:34,940 You did regret. 110 00:09:36,440 --> 00:09:39,050 Because when Huang Gui arrived, 111 00:09:39,860 --> 00:09:42,360 you had a chance to kill me. 112 00:09:43,640 --> 00:09:45,520 Cui Xingzhou, 113 00:09:46,500 --> 00:09:50,160 why do you think I would regret it? 114 00:09:50,160 --> 00:09:53,500 Perhaps the old me gave you the wrong impression. 115 00:09:54,280 --> 00:09:56,900 Let me tell you a secret. 116 00:09:56,900 --> 00:09:59,950 The Liu Miantang from Lingquan Town 117 00:09:59,950 --> 00:10:02,560 is not the real me. 118 00:10:02,560 --> 00:10:07,750 Your wife, who only had eyes for you, does not exist, 119 00:10:07,750 --> 00:10:09,980 just like your lies. 120 00:10:11,620 --> 00:10:14,720 And your love only moved you. 121 00:10:14,720 --> 00:10:16,630 To me, 122 00:10:17,300 --> 00:10:19,580 it means nothing. 123 00:10:19,580 --> 00:10:21,710 I don't... 124 00:10:22,530 --> 00:10:24,590 love you. 125 00:10:25,220 --> 00:10:27,160 I hate you. 126 00:10:33,580 --> 00:10:39,080 So, Lord Huaiyang, how do you plan to deal with Lu Wen? 127 00:11:01,200 --> 00:11:04,160 I'll give you one more chance. 128 00:11:04,160 --> 00:11:06,560 Don't you have a dagger? 129 00:11:07,620 --> 00:11:10,040 Don't you hate me? 130 00:11:11,820 --> 00:11:14,100 I lied to you before. 131 00:11:14,100 --> 00:11:16,540 I'll repay you with my life. 132 00:11:19,810 --> 00:11:26,150 The feud between Lu Wen and Lord Huaiyang was settled in that fire. 133 00:11:26,150 --> 00:11:28,480 It was fate. 134 00:11:41,620 --> 00:11:44,360 What about Cui Jiu and Liu Miantang? 135 00:12:06,220 --> 00:12:08,600 It's settled now. 136 00:12:09,520 --> 00:12:11,820 From now on, 137 00:12:13,080 --> 00:12:15,300 we owe each other nothing. 138 00:12:16,680 --> 00:12:18,960 Let's part ways peacefully, 139 00:12:19,910 --> 00:12:22,110 and find our own happiness. 140 00:12:22,110 --> 00:12:26,760 ♫ I've searched everywhere in the garden, but where are the spring flowers and autumn moon?♫ 141 00:12:26,760 --> 00:12:29,060 ♫ Before the wind comes, they've already withered ♫ 142 00:12:29,060 --> 00:12:39,230 ♫ Most importantly, we share the same feelings yet we're not fated to be♫ 143 00:12:41,390 --> 00:12:45,930 ♫ I blame my youth for not recognizing the full moon or lack of it ♫ 144 00:12:45,930 --> 00:12:49,830 ♫Without parting, the wind gradually blows♫ 145 00:12:49,830 --> 00:12:59,980 ♫ Without parting, the wind gradually blows ♫ 146 00:12:59,980 --> 00:13:05,360 ♫ I have been alone in the wilderness for years ♫ 147 00:13:05,360 --> 00:13:09,520 ♫ Just waiting for you to come see me ♫ 148 00:13:09,520 --> 00:13:14,720 ♫ You clearly know I miss you, yet why are your words so resolute?♫ 149 00:13:14,720 --> 00:13:19,510 ♫ I deceive myself to cut the red string of fate ♫ 150 00:13:19,510 --> 00:13:24,030 ♫ If there's a knot in my heart, I can only wait for you to unravel it ♫ 151 00:13:24,030 --> 00:13:29,800 ♫ My memories are like the fallen leaves, waiting you to pick them up ♫ 152 00:13:29,800 --> 00:13:31,470 Okay. 153 00:13:33,870 --> 00:13:35,540 I'll listen to you. 154 00:13:52,700 --> 00:13:58,180 ♫ Why have I been alone in the wilderness for years? ♫ 155 00:13:58,180 --> 00:14:02,440 ♫ Insisting on waiting for you to come see me ♫ 156 00:14:02,440 --> 00:14:07,500 ♫ How much snow have I shaken off and how many poems have I written ♫ 157 00:14:07,500 --> 00:14:12,340 ♫ And how many times have I asked myself ♫ 158 00:14:12,340 --> 00:14:16,790 ♫ Even if you go through a thousand dangers, love cannot be perfect ♫ 159 00:14:16,790 --> 00:14:21,770 ♫ Lies and vows are only a thought away ♫ 160 00:14:21,770 --> 00:14:26,440 ♫ If my dreams fade, It's because ♫ 161 00:14:26,440 --> 00:14:35,740 ♫ We say "forever" too easily ♫ 162 00:16:18,320 --> 00:16:20,180 Let's go. 163 00:16:20,180 --> 00:16:21,620 Yes. 164 00:16:22,660 --> 00:16:25,780 [Three months later] 165 00:16:25,780 --> 00:16:32,320 [The capital city changes. Wu is deposed. New Emperor rises, enacting new policies.] 166 00:16:54,220 --> 00:16:57,820 Your Majesty. Please try on the auspicious attire. 167 00:17:06,740 --> 00:17:09,960 His Majesty moved to another place. 168 00:17:09,960 --> 00:17:12,040 He has issued an oral edict. 169 00:17:13,380 --> 00:17:16,080 The country is exhausted, in need of rebuilding. 170 00:17:16,080 --> 00:17:20,180 Simplify the coronation ceremony and palace expenses. 171 00:17:20,180 --> 00:17:24,740 His Majesty will consult the ministers soon. 172 00:17:24,740 --> 00:17:29,780 As the saying goes, the weather in June changes suddenly. 173 00:17:30,480 --> 00:17:33,260 Yesterday, he was a boor living in a remote area. 174 00:17:33,260 --> 00:17:37,040 Today, he is a legitimate member of the royal family. 175 00:17:41,340 --> 00:17:46,640 One is a lord, like a hidden dragon, who will achieve great things. 176 00:17:46,640 --> 00:17:51,580 The other is a remarkable woman, intelligent and unparalleled in the mundane world. 177 00:17:51,580 --> 00:17:55,030 They are like a fated couple 178 00:17:55,030 --> 00:17:57,500 straight out of a storybook. 179 00:17:59,060 --> 00:18:01,540 But we still need a villain. 180 00:18:02,660 --> 00:18:04,820 A lord would be best. 181 00:18:06,860 --> 00:18:09,120 Aren't you a lord? 182 00:18:10,960 --> 00:18:15,480 You should join us, and cause some trouble. That will be enough. 183 00:18:18,140 --> 00:18:20,980 You see, the story is over. 184 00:18:20,980 --> 00:18:24,960 Just enjoy your chestnuts and be a spectator. 185 00:18:27,220 --> 00:18:29,340 Leave me alone. 186 00:18:34,420 --> 00:18:36,580 His Majesty has ascended. 187 00:18:36,580 --> 00:18:39,360 Even the deepest wounds should have healed by now. 188 00:18:40,080 --> 00:18:43,680 I'm not sure if your pain is internal or external. 189 00:18:47,880 --> 00:18:51,960 She and I have long parted ways. 190 00:18:51,960 --> 00:18:54,040 You better. 191 00:18:54,900 --> 00:18:57,920 The new emperor has summoned the regional lords to the capital. 192 00:18:57,920 --> 00:19:00,670 If you can't let go of the past, 193 00:19:00,670 --> 00:19:03,670 consider how awkward 194 00:19:04,670 --> 00:19:07,000 a meeting might be. 195 00:19:08,980 --> 00:19:11,640 What's your plan for going to the capital? 196 00:19:13,300 --> 00:19:17,700 I've made arrangements in the capital, to protect my elder sister and my mentor. 197 00:19:17,700 --> 00:19:21,000 What do you mean? Are you not going? 198 00:19:33,360 --> 00:19:35,220 My Lord, a report from the capital. 199 00:19:35,220 --> 00:19:37,340 Traces of Qiulin Xian have been found. 200 00:19:37,340 --> 00:19:40,320 Ms. Liu should be there too. 201 00:19:45,100 --> 00:19:46,620 We don't know much about the new emperor. 202 00:19:46,620 --> 00:19:49,700 The vassal lords are all watching. 203 00:19:49,700 --> 00:19:54,640 Xingzhou is cautious and he won't act recklessly. 204 00:19:54,640 --> 00:19:56,640 But the court has issued the edict. 205 00:19:56,640 --> 00:19:59,920 If we don't go, we'll be defying the emperor. 206 00:19:59,920 --> 00:20:01,480 Consort Dowager, don't worry. 207 00:20:01,480 --> 00:20:06,200 The new emperor's foundation is unstable, and he wouldn't dare offend Zhenzhou. 208 00:20:06,200 --> 00:20:08,580 When the Wu family took the throne and issued an edict, 209 00:20:08,580 --> 00:20:10,760 didn't the old lord also refuse to go? 210 00:20:10,760 --> 00:20:16,100 And in the end, what could they do to us? 211 00:20:16,100 --> 00:20:18,820 Moreover, with Xingzhou's temperament... 212 00:20:18,820 --> 00:20:22,180 He is naturally more prudent than elder brother. 213 00:20:28,060 --> 00:20:32,500 Consort Dowager. His Lordship has gone to the capital. 214 00:20:32,500 --> 00:20:34,260 What? 215 00:20:34,260 --> 00:20:38,550 [Treasure as Desired] 216 00:20:47,840 --> 00:20:49,860 Goodbye, esteemed lady. 217 00:20:53,540 --> 00:20:57,520 Bring the catalog items to Prince Sui's mansion for the princess to pick. 218 00:20:57,520 --> 00:20:59,660 Thank you. 219 00:21:08,100 --> 00:21:12,900 Thanks to Uncle for traveling all over, and doing business with neighboring countries. 220 00:21:12,900 --> 00:21:16,620 Or, how could you have found such rare items to please the princess? 221 00:21:16,620 --> 00:21:18,220 Come on, Uncle Qiao. 222 00:21:18,220 --> 00:21:20,540 You only have a few pieces. 223 00:21:20,540 --> 00:21:23,060 But Princess of Sui has checked the whole catalog. 224 00:21:23,060 --> 00:21:25,040 You're an honest man, aren't you? 225 00:21:25,040 --> 00:21:28,770 For a first visit to Prince Sui's Mansion, a few items are enough. 226 00:21:28,770 --> 00:21:33,060 The key is to pique the interest of Princess of Sui. 227 00:21:33,060 --> 00:21:36,660 Gradually, once we make it into his inner backyard, 228 00:21:36,660 --> 00:21:39,360 and bribe the servants, 229 00:21:39,360 --> 00:21:42,360 it won't be hard to track Prince Sui's movements. 230 00:21:42,360 --> 00:21:44,940 Find a secluded place 231 00:21:46,040 --> 00:21:47,980 and kill him. 232 00:21:47,980 --> 00:21:49,900 Sister, your headpiece is too plain. 233 00:21:49,900 --> 00:21:52,460 I want to get a better one for you. 234 00:22:02,060 --> 00:22:04,220 It's fine. 235 00:22:04,220 --> 00:22:06,940 We just arrived in the capital. 236 00:22:06,940 --> 00:22:09,220 It's better to keep a low profile. 237 00:22:12,620 --> 00:22:16,900 People's nature is serene, but their hearts are troubled. 238 00:22:16,900 --> 00:22:20,680 While their hearts may seem calm, desires drive them. 239 00:22:20,680 --> 00:22:25,160 If one can dispel desires, 240 00:22:25,160 --> 00:22:28,000 their hearts will naturally be calm. 241 00:22:28,000 --> 00:22:33,540 With a clear heart, the spirit will naturally be pure. 242 00:22:33,540 --> 00:22:35,900 Then... 243 00:22:37,320 --> 00:22:40,600 Then... Then the six desires will not arise. 244 00:22:40,600 --> 00:22:42,460 The three poisons will be eliminated. 245 00:22:42,460 --> 00:22:45,220 Those who cannot achieve this 246 00:22:45,220 --> 00:22:47,580 have not yet cleared their hearts 247 00:22:47,580 --> 00:22:49,960 or dispelled their desires. 248 00:22:49,960 --> 00:22:53,300 Those who can achieve this... 249 00:22:53,300 --> 00:22:55,980 What about those who can achieve this? 250 00:22:56,780 --> 00:22:58,700 I've taught you three times. 251 00:22:58,700 --> 00:23:01,540 Why aren't you paying attention? 252 00:23:01,540 --> 00:23:03,660 Sorry, I'm dull-witted. 253 00:23:03,660 --> 00:23:05,630 Since you know that, 254 00:23:05,630 --> 00:23:08,210 you should work harder to make up for it. 255 00:23:08,210 --> 00:23:11,000 If you can't even memorize a few scriptures, 256 00:23:11,000 --> 00:23:15,280 how am I going to tell Minister Shi? 257 00:23:17,780 --> 00:23:22,480 Do you know which palace the Empress should reside in? 258 00:23:24,180 --> 00:23:25,800 Chonghua Palace. 259 00:23:25,800 --> 00:23:29,820 And are you living in Chonghua Palace now? 260 00:23:32,000 --> 00:23:35,530 Although you are betrothed to the Emperor, the marriage is not yet consummated. 261 00:23:35,530 --> 00:23:38,060 the marriage is not yet consummated. 262 00:23:38,060 --> 00:23:42,760 With the new emperor ascending, anything could happen. 263 00:23:42,760 --> 00:23:46,240 Whether the Empress will be from the Shi family is still unknown. 264 00:23:46,240 --> 00:23:49,280 is still unknown. 265 00:23:49,340 --> 00:23:52,140 Grand Empress Dowager loves Taoist scriptures. 266 00:23:52,140 --> 00:23:54,920 Miss Shi, even if you must stay up all night, 267 00:23:54,920 --> 00:23:57,760 you must memorize these scriptures. 268 00:23:57,760 --> 00:23:59,620 I understand. 269 00:23:59,620 --> 00:24:02,280 I will memorize them today. 270 00:24:04,220 --> 00:24:07,160 I'll check on you tomorrow. 271 00:24:17,680 --> 00:24:19,000 - Miss Shi, you're working hard. - Miss Shi, you're working hard. 272 00:24:19,000 --> 00:24:21,320 Have some fruit. 273 00:24:23,860 --> 00:24:26,400 For those who can achieve this, their inner hearts... 274 00:24:26,400 --> 00:24:30,800 I thought Miss Shi had finally turned her fortune around, and was about to soar high. 275 00:24:30,800 --> 00:24:33,940 But after entering the palace, nothing changed. 276 00:24:33,940 --> 00:24:38,920 And why did His Majesty delay the designation of the Empress, making Miss Shi suffer in vain? 277 00:24:38,920 --> 00:24:40,300 - making Miss Shi suffer in vain? - Stop talking nonsense. 278 00:24:40,300 --> 00:24:43,600 His Majesty just ascended, and must be facing many issues. 279 00:24:43,600 --> 00:24:46,100 The day before yesterday, he cut palace extravagance. 280 00:24:46,100 --> 00:24:49,500 Yesterday, he pardoned 800 palace servants, sending them home. 281 00:24:49,500 --> 00:24:53,280 The designation of the Empress is only slightly delayed. 282 00:24:53,280 --> 00:24:55,920 He's busy, busy tending to crab apple trees. 283 00:24:55,920 --> 00:24:58,260 Zhuwen. 284 00:24:58,260 --> 00:25:00,020 I'm sorry. 285 00:25:00,020 --> 00:25:02,120 I was just thinking of Ms. Sun. 286 00:25:02,120 --> 00:25:05,280 She suddenly fell ill, and has been recuperating in Qingzhou. 287 00:25:05,280 --> 00:25:07,900 What will Miss Shi... 288 00:25:10,660 --> 00:25:14,560 Songhua. Do you think she should be punished? 289 00:25:14,560 --> 00:25:17,700 - Yes. - You heard that. 290 00:25:17,700 --> 00:25:19,900 Get out... 291 00:25:23,840 --> 00:25:26,420 and fetch me some snacks. 292 00:25:26,420 --> 00:25:28,260 I'll be right back. 293 00:25:51,110 --> 00:25:54,150 His Majesty is here. Please enter the hall, My Lord. 294 00:26:20,160 --> 00:26:24,280 I am Cui Xingzhou. Greetings to Your Majesty. 295 00:26:26,360 --> 00:26:28,560 Minister Cui, no need for formality. 296 00:26:30,960 --> 00:26:32,400 There is no outsider here. 297 00:26:32,400 --> 00:26:34,280 Your contributions are invaluable. 298 00:26:34,280 --> 00:26:38,660 Even without your ancestral glory, I would not force you to kneel. 299 00:26:39,280 --> 00:26:41,220 Thank you, Your Majesty. 300 00:26:42,410 --> 00:26:45,200 I have invited you to this temporary palace first. 301 00:26:45,200 --> 00:26:47,360 Do you know why? 302 00:26:47,360 --> 00:26:50,840 This was the former Crown Prince's residence. 303 00:26:51,500 --> 00:26:54,720 Do you want to remind me 304 00:26:54,720 --> 00:26:58,654 that your ascension is the rightful succession of the royal family, 305 00:26:58,654 --> 00:27:00,840 restoring order and justice? 306 00:27:00,840 --> 00:27:03,040 It is both out of nostalgia, 307 00:27:04,180 --> 00:27:06,580 and a reminder to myself that, 308 00:27:07,520 --> 00:27:12,560 even as Emperor, I must remember those dear ones lost, 309 00:27:12,560 --> 00:27:16,560 the days and nights fleeing from the Zhenzhou troops, 310 00:27:17,460 --> 00:27:19,660 and my missing loved one. 311 00:27:22,520 --> 00:27:26,320 Your Majesty, are you intending to settle old scores, 312 00:27:26,320 --> 00:27:28,800 and avenge the Qingzhou affair? 313 00:27:28,800 --> 00:27:33,590 In the past, I couldn't do anything to you, but things are different now. 314 00:27:38,720 --> 00:27:41,020 You meeting me today without surprise 315 00:27:41,020 --> 00:27:44,440 suggests you've already investigated, and considered everything thoroughly. 316 00:27:44,440 --> 00:27:47,720 Given that, the vassal lords have yet to act, 317 00:27:47,720 --> 00:27:52,830 why did you take the lead, and arrive at the capital so soon? 318 00:27:52,830 --> 00:27:57,620 I was summoned by the imperial edict, so naturally, I was the first to arrive, 319 00:27:57,620 --> 00:28:01,480 also to show the vassal lords how Zhenzhou's fate will unfold before they decide 320 00:28:01,480 --> 00:28:04,020 how to pledge their loyalty to the new emperor. 321 00:28:13,280 --> 00:28:15,130 You're afraid 322 00:28:15,130 --> 00:28:20,090 afraid that in the capital, she'll make her decision . 323 00:28:22,520 --> 00:28:26,107 Given how things are now, you remain a pillar of the kingdom, 324 00:28:26,107 --> 00:28:29,880 and I'm the supreme lord. 325 00:28:29,880 --> 00:28:33,980 Between you and me, everything from our past can be let go, 326 00:28:33,980 --> 00:28:36,460 and must be let go. 327 00:28:38,500 --> 00:28:43,290 Is that an imperial edict or a command from Ziyu? 328 00:28:43,900 --> 00:28:47,660 Though I have deceived her and I can't deny it, 329 00:28:47,660 --> 00:28:51,680 Mr. Ziyu has no right to judge me either. 330 00:28:51,680 --> 00:28:57,770 When I first found Liu Miantang, her tendons were severed, lying in the cold pool, bloodied. 331 00:28:57,770 --> 00:29:02,260 Even if you didn't know this, you indulged your old followers. 332 00:29:02,260 --> 00:29:08,750 As for our past, even if I can let it go, she certainly cannot. 333 00:29:15,440 --> 00:29:17,980 I know what happened in Zhenzhou. 334 00:29:23,620 --> 00:29:29,390 She has nothing to do with you anymore. 335 00:29:31,480 --> 00:29:34,160 But as ruler and subject, our future is long. 336 00:29:34,160 --> 00:29:38,220 Minister Cui, please rest well... 337 00:29:40,220 --> 00:29:42,660 after your long journey. 338 00:29:57,440 --> 00:29:59,520 Be careful. Don't bump into anything. 339 00:29:59,520 --> 00:30:01,640 - Yes. - Yes. 340 00:30:01,640 --> 00:30:04,520 You arrived so suddenly. But that's good. 341 00:30:04,520 --> 00:30:07,320 Everyone in here is at ease now. 342 00:30:07,320 --> 00:30:09,260 Afraid I'll rebel? 343 00:30:10,900 --> 00:30:15,460 Sister, when did you plant these crab apple trees? 344 00:30:17,380 --> 00:30:20,760 According to palace news, His Majesty is fond of crab apples, 345 00:30:20,760 --> 00:30:24,860 so the noble families in the capital are all following suit, making it quite the trend. 346 00:30:26,520 --> 00:30:28,660 He's fond of crab apples. 347 00:30:29,760 --> 00:30:31,260 You're simple-minded. 348 00:30:31,260 --> 00:30:35,660 Serving His Majesty in the capital, you must always be alert and grasp his intentions. 349 00:30:35,660 --> 00:30:38,060 I've heard this new Emperor is quite different. 350 00:30:38,060 --> 00:30:42,080 He advocates for simplicity, canceled all grand court meetings, and is nostalgic and traditional. 351 00:30:42,080 --> 00:30:45,087 He's using the former Crown Prince's mansion as a temporary palace, and staying low-profile. 352 00:30:45,087 --> 00:30:48,280 I wonder if this is out of filial piety, 353 00:30:48,280 --> 00:30:51,620 but even after ascending the throne, he hasn't appointed the empress or consorts 354 00:30:51,620 --> 00:30:53,760 it's quite strange 355 00:30:54,320 --> 00:30:56,860 Sister, you married into a capital family, 356 00:30:56,860 --> 00:30:59,500 and are interested in kingdom affairs. 357 00:31:00,280 --> 00:31:03,380 His Majesty signed a marriage certificate with Miss Shi. 358 00:31:03,380 --> 00:31:05,580 But they didn't even live together. 359 00:31:05,580 --> 00:31:08,360 So the official wife's position is awkward in the palace. 360 00:31:08,360 --> 00:31:11,200 Whether she'll become Empress is still up in the air. 361 00:31:11,200 --> 00:31:15,140 He also has a concubine surnamed Sun, daughter of the former Crown Prince's aide. 362 00:31:15,140 --> 00:31:17,280 She was with His Majesty before he became Emperor. 363 00:31:17,280 --> 00:31:20,240 But until now, she hasn't been summoned to the capital, 364 00:31:20,240 --> 00:31:23,080 and doesn't seem to be in line for the empress title. 365 00:31:23,640 --> 00:31:26,840 The new emperor isn't conducting a selection, and is just waiting. 366 00:31:26,840 --> 00:31:32,760 All my friends believe His Majesty reserves the Empress position for someone special, 367 00:31:33,480 --> 00:31:35,780 perhaps his loved one. 368 00:31:35,780 --> 00:31:37,680 But no one knows which noble family she's from. 369 00:31:37,680 --> 00:31:41,400 - Since you're often in the palace, help me find out more. - Sure. 370 00:31:41,400 --> 00:31:44,880 Don't laugh loudly; Speak quietly. 371 00:31:46,340 --> 00:31:47,820 - Your Ladyship. - Mother. 372 00:31:47,820 --> 00:31:49,640 - Honey. - Brother-in-law. 373 00:31:50,160 --> 00:31:52,317 I was too excited and forgot the rules. 374 00:31:52,317 --> 00:31:55,460 Our Duke Qing's family is a noble one in the capital. 375 00:31:55,460 --> 00:31:57,040 As the eldest daughter-in-law, 376 00:31:57,040 --> 00:32:02,220 you forgot the rules upon seeing your brother, which is unbecoming. 377 00:32:03,020 --> 00:32:04,660 Yes. 378 00:32:05,440 --> 00:32:10,240 Lord Huaiyang, you look much more mature now. 379 00:32:10,240 --> 00:32:13,080 I heard that Xingzhou made quite a splash today, 380 00:32:13,080 --> 00:32:15,170 summoned by His Majesty as soon as he arrived in the capital. 381 00:32:15,170 --> 00:32:18,360 It's embarrassing to say, but I haven't even met His Majesty yet. 382 00:32:18,360 --> 00:32:21,858 Since His Majesty summoned me, he naturally remembered my sister, 383 00:32:21,858 --> 00:32:25,200 and in doing so, he also recalled the Duke Qing's. 384 00:32:25,200 --> 00:32:28,840 Brother-in-law, no need to worry. 385 00:32:29,460 --> 00:32:31,060 Yes. 386 00:32:31,060 --> 00:32:33,320 We're family. 387 00:32:34,700 --> 00:32:36,580 I'm tired. 388 00:32:37,500 --> 00:32:41,440 Fu, you must take good care of Xingzhou these days. 389 00:32:41,440 --> 00:32:44,340 Xingzhou is my youngest brother. I will take good care of him. 390 00:32:44,340 --> 00:32:46,640 Mother, don't worry. 391 00:32:54,500 --> 00:32:55,840 Let's go. 392 00:32:55,840 --> 00:32:57,580 After you, Sister. 393 00:33:19,760 --> 00:33:21,500 Where is it? 394 00:33:23,580 --> 00:33:25,320 Where is what? 395 00:33:25,320 --> 00:33:28,420 Face powder from Scent Store, in the Moon Mist shade. 396 00:33:33,960 --> 00:33:35,780 What's this? 397 00:33:35,780 --> 00:33:38,260 Face powder from Scent Store in Jiangnan. 398 00:33:40,300 --> 00:33:42,040 For me? 399 00:33:46,860 --> 00:33:49,480 Last year, you said you bought it, and would send it to the capital. 400 00:33:49,480 --> 00:33:52,020 I've been waiting for a whole year. 401 00:33:55,100 --> 00:33:57,400 - Moru. - Yes. 402 00:33:57,400 --> 00:34:00,260 Did he give it to a confidante? 403 00:34:00,940 --> 00:34:03,960 A confidante... - Pour me some more tea. 404 00:34:05,140 --> 00:34:07,260 Really? 405 00:34:08,040 --> 00:34:12,960 I'm just curious. Mother's letter said you're not marrying Cousin Lian. 406 00:34:12,960 --> 00:34:15,580 So, you've fallen for someone else. 407 00:34:15,580 --> 00:34:17,250 Good for you, Xingzhou. 408 00:34:17,250 --> 00:34:20,800 Giving your girl my gift, that's too good for you. 409 00:34:23,740 --> 00:34:25,960 My Lord. Young Lady. 410 00:34:25,960 --> 00:34:28,280 Prince Sui's sent an invitation. 411 00:34:28,280 --> 00:34:31,220 Princess of Sui said they got some good items from Western Regions. 412 00:34:31,220 --> 00:34:33,440 She invites you to come and enjoy them tomorrow. 413 00:34:33,440 --> 00:34:35,640 Okay. You can leave now. 414 00:34:37,440 --> 00:34:39,490 Princess of Sui? 415 00:34:39,490 --> 00:34:41,890 I usually have no contact with her. 416 00:34:41,890 --> 00:34:46,160 - How come... - It's Prince Sui. He wants to see me. 417 00:34:46,160 --> 00:34:47,800 [Inviting Cui Fu and Cui Xingzhou to Prince Sui's tomorrow.] 418 00:34:47,800 --> 00:34:51,720 Yes. You're invited too. 419 00:34:55,960 --> 00:34:59,040 [Prince Sui's Mansion] 420 00:35:04,520 --> 00:35:08,380 We've been walking for so long. Is this the main hall? 421 00:35:08,380 --> 00:35:11,040 We've only passed a few courtyards. How could it be the main hall? 422 00:35:11,040 --> 00:35:14,180 This is Prince Sui's conference hall. 423 00:35:14,180 --> 00:35:16,760 This mansion is so big. 424 00:35:16,760 --> 00:35:20,040 Does the prince usually travel by carriage? 425 00:35:20,040 --> 00:35:21,900 Or he would be tired. 426 00:35:21,900 --> 00:35:24,580 You entered through the back door, so the path is longer. 427 00:35:24,580 --> 00:35:27,520 His Lordship uses the main entrance, which is closer to the main hall. 428 00:35:27,520 --> 00:35:31,420 Sure. Your Han residences have so many rules. 429 00:35:31,420 --> 00:35:34,100 I heard about "purple east". 430 00:35:34,100 --> 00:35:36,180 The study must be in the east, right? 431 00:35:36,180 --> 00:35:39,220 Actually, the study is in the west. The wing rooms are on the east side. 432 00:35:39,220 --> 00:35:42,360 Those rooms are for guests. 433 00:35:47,340 --> 00:35:51,240 Miss, may I ask if His Lordship is here now? 434 00:35:51,240 --> 00:35:53,680 Aren't you here to see the Princess of Sui? 435 00:35:53,680 --> 00:35:57,140 Last time, I felt that Princess of Sui was very affectionate towards Prince Sui. 436 00:35:57,140 --> 00:35:59,960 This time, she might not choosing for herself. 437 00:35:59,960 --> 00:36:05,030 So, we've also prepared some men's accessories, for His Lordship to try on. 438 00:36:05,030 --> 00:36:08,120 We have guests today. And you can't go to the inner courtyard. 439 00:36:08,120 --> 00:36:10,500 I'll ask Princess of Sui and tell you later. 440 00:36:10,500 --> 00:36:12,140 Okay. 441 00:36:24,020 --> 00:36:26,480 Your Lordship, this way please. 442 00:36:39,700 --> 00:36:42,520 My Lord, Lord Huaiyang is here. 443 00:36:45,520 --> 00:36:48,020 Xingzhou. 444 00:36:48,020 --> 00:36:49,760 My Lord. 445 00:36:52,160 --> 00:36:56,320 We're from different fiefs, far apart. 446 00:36:56,320 --> 00:37:00,020 I've missed you for a long time. 447 00:37:00,020 --> 00:37:05,440 A few days ago, Empress Dowager asked me to organize a memorial at the imperial tomb. 448 00:37:05,440 --> 00:37:09,180 I returned yesterday, and couldn't go to the palace to greet you. 449 00:37:09,180 --> 00:37:11,800 - Please don't hold it against me. - It's okay. 450 00:37:11,800 --> 00:37:13,080 Please have a seat. 451 00:37:13,080 --> 00:37:15,780 - After you, My Lord. - Come on. 452 00:37:16,820 --> 00:37:19,560 - Please. - My Lord, please. 453 00:37:23,080 --> 00:37:25,130 Among all the lords, 454 00:37:25,130 --> 00:37:29,300 Lord Huaiyang, you are the one I most wanted to meet. 455 00:37:30,760 --> 00:37:35,680 I used my wife's invitation to Duke Qing's to invite you. 456 00:37:36,860 --> 00:37:40,590 We need to have a good chat 457 00:37:40,590 --> 00:37:44,440 about the past, the present, and the future. 458 00:37:44,440 --> 00:37:50,020 I have a million things that I want to say. 459 00:37:50,020 --> 00:37:52,960 You've flattered me, My Lord. 460 00:37:52,960 --> 00:37:57,760 Thinking back, when Wu was in power, 461 00:37:57,760 --> 00:38:00,740 you suffered a lot. 462 00:38:00,740 --> 00:38:05,660 I'm happy for you in such good spirits today. 463 00:38:05,660 --> 00:38:12,100 It's not easy for us to have this nice talk. 464 00:38:12,100 --> 00:38:14,280 We've earned this day. 465 00:38:14,280 --> 00:38:17,260 Turning the situation around and restoring order, 466 00:38:17,260 --> 00:38:22,120 these are thanks to His Majesty, My Lord, and Minister Shi's efforts. 467 00:38:22,120 --> 00:38:24,620 I did nothing. 468 00:38:24,620 --> 00:38:26,100 How can you say that? 469 00:38:26,100 --> 00:38:30,180 Lord Huaiyang's dedication to coming to the capital shows your great mind. 470 00:38:30,180 --> 00:38:32,480 It's a blessing for Qi. 471 00:38:32,480 --> 00:38:38,480 The Cui family has always remained loyal to the Liu reign. 472 00:38:40,160 --> 00:38:46,420 As for the past events during Wu's rule, 473 00:38:46,420 --> 00:38:48,860 there's no need to talk about them. 474 00:38:49,800 --> 00:38:51,940 No need? 475 00:38:54,420 --> 00:39:00,100 Didn't you just say we turned the situation around? 476 00:39:00,100 --> 00:39:03,300 The fault lies entirely with Wu. 477 00:39:04,820 --> 00:39:12,350 I know you have some misunderstandings with His Majesty or with others. 478 00:39:12,350 --> 00:39:15,300 But... - Misunderstandings? 479 00:39:18,020 --> 00:39:20,060 With whom? 480 00:39:22,820 --> 00:39:26,960 Like Minister Shi. 481 00:39:27,740 --> 00:39:31,860 Or some current officials. 482 00:39:35,440 --> 00:39:38,900 Forget about it. That's not important. 483 00:39:38,900 --> 00:39:44,700 As long as you and I serve His Majesty wholeheartedly, 484 00:39:44,700 --> 00:39:49,070 I guarantee that Zhenzhou 485 00:39:49,070 --> 00:39:52,080 will always belong to the Cui family. 486 00:39:57,960 --> 00:40:01,860 Thank you, My Lord. 487 00:40:01,860 --> 00:40:06,588 Honestly, I didn't have much interaction with your father, 488 00:40:06,588 --> 00:40:10,360 but his achievements were hard-earned. 489 00:40:10,360 --> 00:40:14,460 He knew how to assess the situation. 490 00:40:15,440 --> 00:40:20,980 The late emperor often said that your family holds a different surname, 491 00:40:20,980 --> 00:40:24,220 - but... - My Lord. 492 00:40:24,220 --> 00:40:27,760 How dare you. I'm talking to Lord Huaiyang. 493 00:40:27,760 --> 00:40:29,520 What's wrong? 494 00:40:29,520 --> 00:40:34,140 My Lord, Eunuch Fu is here with an imperial decree. 495 00:40:34,140 --> 00:40:35,980 Come in. 496 00:40:37,700 --> 00:40:41,520 My Lord. Grand Empress Dowager will have lunch with His Majesty. 497 00:40:41,520 --> 00:40:44,050 They'll have burbot, which you like. 498 00:40:44,050 --> 00:40:48,980 Grand Empress Dowager misses you, and invites you to join them for lunch. 499 00:40:50,620 --> 00:40:52,360 You may leave. 500 00:40:57,220 --> 00:40:58,660 Don't blame me, Xingzhou. 501 00:40:58,660 --> 00:41:02,300 Empress Dowager always misses me 502 00:41:02,300 --> 00:41:04,880 and asks me to accompany her. 503 00:41:04,880 --> 00:41:08,100 I... Well... 504 00:41:08,100 --> 00:41:10,100 My Lord, please go. 505 00:41:11,380 --> 00:41:16,300 I heard from my wife that she also invited your sister, Young Lady Guo. 506 00:41:16,300 --> 00:41:20,460 Please have lunch with your sister here. 507 00:41:20,460 --> 00:41:23,500 My wife has specially prepared for it. 508 00:41:23,500 --> 00:41:26,000 Very good. 509 00:41:26,000 --> 00:41:28,360 Then I'll take my leave. 510 00:41:47,480 --> 00:41:51,200 This headpiece is called "crimson dawn and clear day" with the color of fire. 511 00:41:51,200 --> 00:41:54,620 It makes you even more dazzling. 512 00:41:56,540 --> 00:41:58,640 Young Lady Guo, won't you pick one? 513 00:41:58,640 --> 00:42:00,980 I have a yellowish complexion, so it doesn't suit me well. 514 00:42:00,980 --> 00:42:03,060 It only looks good on you. 515 00:42:03,060 --> 00:42:06,500 Duke Qing's is too plain and conservative. 516 00:42:06,500 --> 00:42:10,020 Doesn't your brother arrive in the capital? Let him take you out shopping. 517 00:42:10,020 --> 00:42:12,840 It's good for socializing. 518 00:42:13,700 --> 00:42:17,780 It's not that I'm anxious. The noble ladies in the capital are all asking about him. 519 00:42:17,780 --> 00:42:20,940 Three of them have even asked me to introduce him. 520 00:42:22,800 --> 00:42:25,900 Your Lordship. Young Lady Guo is over there. 521 00:42:32,700 --> 00:42:35,900 Greetings, Your Ladyship. Sister. 522 00:42:35,900 --> 00:42:38,460 Have you finished talking with Prince Sui already? 523 00:42:38,460 --> 00:42:41,340 He went to the palace for an imperial edict. 524 00:42:42,780 --> 00:42:45,300 Prince Sui is the youngest son of Grand Empress Dowager. 525 00:42:45,300 --> 00:42:48,260 Naturally, he is favored in the capital. 526 00:42:48,260 --> 00:42:51,280 Never mind. Lord Huaiyang arrived just in time. 527 00:42:51,280 --> 00:42:53,940 Today, I've invited two merchants from the Western Regions 528 00:42:53,940 --> 00:42:57,440 who have brought rare and valuable items to the capital. 529 00:43:00,260 --> 00:43:02,300 From the Western Regions. 530 00:43:08,820 --> 00:43:19,300 Timing and Subtitles by the "Are You My Soulmate?" Team @ Viki 531 00:43:19,300 --> 00:43:23,380 "A Lifelong Promise" by Cai Ziyi 532 00:43:23,380 --> 00:43:30,611 ♫ The boat drifts, bringing back the sunset ♫ 533 00:43:30,611 --> 00:43:37,821 ♫ When we reunite, we still joke about the cause and effect ♫ 534 00:43:37,821 --> 00:43:45,101 ♫ Who passed by, the crab apple falls with a turn ♫ 535 00:43:45,101 --> 00:43:53,881 ♫ Loving rightly but choosing wrong With joys, sorrows, partings and reunions ♫ 536 00:43:53,881 --> 00:44:01,271 ♫ Everyone travels far, seeing clouds and snow ♫ 537 00:44:01,271 --> 00:44:08,431 ♫ Always hard to stay, yet easy to part Crossing spring waters and autumn trials ♫ 538 00:44:08,431 --> 00:44:15,591 ♫ A couple under the moonlight, can stay together ♫ 539 00:44:15,591 --> 00:44:22,861 ♫ Long hidden in the eyes, flickering in and out ♫ 540 00:44:22,861 --> 00:44:30,011 ♫ Let go of the flowers blooming in the yard last night ♫ 541 00:44:30,011 --> 00:44:37,101 ♫ Let go of the waves in the stream in half a lifetime ♫ 542 00:44:37,101 --> 00:44:44,521 ♫ Let those dust and chaos go on endlessly ♫ 543 00:44:44,521 --> 00:44:53,441 ♫ In this lifetime, my wish is to the vast sky There are many more ♫ 544 00:44:53,441 --> 00:45:00,711 ♫ Everyone travels far, seeing clouds and snow ♫ 545 00:45:00,711 --> 00:45:07,841 ♫ Always hard to stay, yet easy to part Crossing spring waters and autumn trials ♫ 546 00:45:07,841 --> 00:45:15,041 ♫ A couple under the moonlight, can stay together ♫ 547 00:45:15,041 --> 00:45:22,161 ♫ Time flows as we dream through four seasons ♫ 548 00:45:22,161 --> 00:45:35,241 ♫ I wish to journey with you forever Year after year ♫