1 00:01:38,229 --> 00:01:40,509 [Fate Chooses You] 2 00:01:41,539 --> 00:01:43,630 [Episode 3] 3 00:01:46,759 --> 00:01:47,280 Miss. 4 00:01:48,070 --> 00:01:49,280 This road is difficult, 5 00:01:49,280 --> 00:01:50,400 and there are landslides. 6 00:01:50,400 --> 00:01:52,060 This road is full of potholes. 7 00:01:52,120 --> 00:01:53,120 You're all alone. 8 00:01:53,120 --> 00:01:55,150 If you fall, there's no one to help you up. 9 00:01:55,150 --> 00:01:56,880 You should find an easier path. 10 00:01:57,479 --> 00:01:59,210 Come on, let's get back to work. 11 00:02:08,030 --> 00:02:09,120 Excuse me, gentlemen. 12 00:02:09,120 --> 00:02:10,449 Could you please tell me 13 00:02:10,560 --> 00:02:11,960 how to get to the capital? 14 00:02:14,430 --> 00:02:15,400 The restaurant owner said 15 00:02:15,400 --> 00:02:16,560 there was an inn nearby. 16 00:02:16,560 --> 00:02:18,220 Why haven't we reached it yet? 17 00:02:18,280 --> 00:02:19,030 There hasn't been a single place 18 00:02:19,030 --> 00:02:20,230 to rest along the way. 19 00:02:24,520 --> 00:02:25,520 Is it red or green? 20 00:02:27,430 --> 00:02:28,560 The book says colors 21 00:02:28,800 --> 00:02:31,200 should appear after the flesh is replaced. 22 00:02:32,150 --> 00:02:33,550 Why isn't it working yet? 23 00:02:34,400 --> 00:02:35,400 It should be soon. 24 00:02:39,620 --> 00:02:42,190 [Outskirts of the capital] 25 00:02:50,590 --> 00:02:52,470 Who dares block the road? Move aside! 26 00:02:52,470 --> 00:02:54,430 Is that the Head Clerk of the Central Secretariat, 27 00:02:54,430 --> 00:02:55,360 Song Qingbao, in the carriage? 28 00:02:55,360 --> 00:02:56,710 How dare you block the road 29 00:02:56,710 --> 00:02:58,000 when you know full well who's in the carriage? 30 00:02:58,000 --> 00:02:59,400 I have questions for him! 31 00:03:03,000 --> 00:03:03,780 [Liang Wenjing, Chen Zhi, Zhou Yifu, Zhao Qian] 32 00:03:03,780 --> 00:03:05,180 Are these names correct? 33 00:03:05,750 --> 00:03:06,150 Yes! 34 00:03:06,280 --> 00:03:06,840 Yes, exactly! 35 00:03:06,840 --> 00:03:07,710 It's them! 36 00:03:08,680 --> 00:03:10,140 I have noted all the names. 37 00:03:10,750 --> 00:03:11,950 Go back and tell them: 38 00:03:11,960 --> 00:03:13,190 if they have any final wishes or last words, 39 00:03:13,190 --> 00:03:14,400 let them settle their affairs quickly. 40 00:03:14,400 --> 00:03:15,530 When the time comes, 41 00:03:15,680 --> 00:03:17,210 I will come for their lives. 42 00:03:17,910 --> 00:03:18,560 All right. 43 00:03:20,190 --> 00:03:21,250 Please let me down! 44 00:03:44,630 --> 00:03:45,430 Finally here. 45 00:03:48,310 --> 00:03:49,510 There are officials. 46 00:03:52,960 --> 00:03:54,820 He's in a bounty guard's uniform. 47 00:04:11,710 --> 00:04:12,150 Halt! 48 00:04:16,560 --> 00:04:17,160 Do you 49 00:04:17,680 --> 00:04:18,880 come from Wei County? 50 00:04:20,600 --> 00:04:22,060 What can we do for you, Sir? 51 00:04:22,190 --> 00:04:23,720 What's your business here? 52 00:04:25,310 --> 00:04:26,310 We're merchants. 53 00:04:26,430 --> 00:04:27,120 Merchants? 54 00:04:27,830 --> 00:04:29,600 Merchants in what kind of trade? 55 00:04:29,600 --> 00:04:31,720 I travel with our boss, 56 00:04:31,950 --> 00:04:32,920 buying and selling goods. 57 00:04:32,920 --> 00:04:34,430 We sell turbans, colored garments, 58 00:04:34,430 --> 00:04:37,390 seasonal flowers and fruits, boots, shoes, bowls, and dishes. 59 00:04:37,390 --> 00:04:39,120 If you're itinerant peddlers, 60 00:04:39,390 --> 00:04:40,720 where is your carriage? 61 00:04:42,000 --> 00:04:42,870 The Ghost Festival is approaching. 62 00:04:42,870 --> 00:04:44,390 We plan to go to the next town 63 00:04:44,390 --> 00:04:45,950 to buy peach and willow branches, 64 00:04:45,950 --> 00:04:47,450 cattail leaves, and five-colored plague papers for resale. 65 00:04:47,450 --> 00:04:48,480 As for the carriage, 66 00:04:48,480 --> 00:04:50,810 we'll arrange that when we reach the town. 67 00:04:54,680 --> 00:04:56,610 Do you have further business, Sir? 68 00:04:57,430 --> 00:04:58,690 Here's the situation. 69 00:04:58,920 --> 00:05:00,750 I'm a bounty guard from Dongzhou Prefecture. 70 00:05:00,750 --> 00:05:01,600 I took on a bounty 71 00:05:01,600 --> 00:05:02,950 and came here to arrest someone. 72 00:05:02,950 --> 00:05:03,560 But the target 73 00:05:03,560 --> 00:05:04,390 holed up in that inn 74 00:05:04,390 --> 00:05:05,310 and won't come out. 75 00:05:05,310 --> 00:05:06,750 I can't make a move inside, 76 00:05:06,750 --> 00:05:08,390 so I've been stuck waiting out here. 77 00:05:08,390 --> 00:05:09,790 The longer this drags on, 78 00:05:10,040 --> 00:05:11,510 the more I've burned through my funds. 79 00:05:11,510 --> 00:05:13,170 I can barely afford meals now. 80 00:05:13,600 --> 00:05:14,310 Gentlemen, 81 00:05:14,870 --> 00:05:16,530 could you lend me some silver? 82 00:05:17,070 --> 00:05:18,160 I'll repay you in full 83 00:05:18,160 --> 00:05:20,890 once I complete the mission and claim the bounty. 84 00:05:27,680 --> 00:05:28,120 Here, 85 00:05:28,480 --> 00:05:29,480 this is all I have. 86 00:05:30,510 --> 00:05:31,600 Too much, too much! 87 00:05:31,950 --> 00:05:33,550 Half of this would be plenty. 88 00:05:37,230 --> 00:05:38,630 Let me help you with that. 89 00:05:38,690 --> 00:05:38,830 [In Perfect Safety] 90 00:05:38,830 --> 00:05:39,310 Come on. 91 00:05:39,750 --> 00:05:40,550 Alright then. 92 00:05:41,000 --> 00:05:41,600 Landlady! 93 00:05:41,920 --> 00:05:43,120 Come and attend to guests! 94 00:05:43,120 --> 00:05:44,560 Coming, coming! 95 00:05:45,070 --> 00:05:45,680 Sir, 96 00:05:46,070 --> 00:05:46,750 do you have money for a meal today? 97 00:05:46,750 --> 00:05:49,210 [Mrs. Li] 98 00:05:50,070 --> 00:05:51,680 Money is the least of my worries. 99 00:05:51,680 --> 00:05:52,720 I'm more concerned that your little establishment 100 00:05:52,720 --> 00:05:54,520 might not have what I'm craving. 101 00:05:54,630 --> 00:05:56,120 As long as you pay enough, 102 00:05:56,190 --> 00:05:58,680 even if you want dragon meat from the heavens, 103 00:05:58,680 --> 00:06:00,270 I'll slice you a portion. 104 00:06:11,040 --> 00:06:12,840 And who are these two gentlemen? 105 00:06:15,040 --> 00:06:16,630 They are big merchants from Wei County, 106 00:06:16,630 --> 00:06:17,720 top-tier patrons. 107 00:06:18,310 --> 00:06:19,640 And they're my friends. 108 00:06:21,240 --> 00:06:23,310 What may I address you, gentlemen? 109 00:06:23,510 --> 00:06:25,840 Are you here for a meal or accommodations? 110 00:06:26,120 --> 00:06:27,040 Accommodations. 111 00:06:27,040 --> 00:06:28,800 Give us a quiet prime room. 112 00:06:31,800 --> 00:06:33,180 The heavy rain last night 113 00:06:33,180 --> 00:06:34,720 leaked into the rooms on the second floor. 114 00:06:34,720 --> 00:06:36,870 How about a room on the 1st floor? 115 00:06:37,190 --> 00:06:38,159 I'll give you 116 00:06:38,240 --> 00:06:39,270 a discount. 117 00:06:39,830 --> 00:06:41,120 A discount sounds great. 118 00:06:41,120 --> 00:06:42,270 Then make it on the 1st floor. 119 00:06:42,270 --> 00:06:42,870 Landlady, 120 00:06:43,310 --> 00:06:44,870 also bring steamed buns, meat pies, 121 00:06:44,870 --> 00:06:46,070 noodle sheets, sliced soup, 122 00:06:46,070 --> 00:06:47,190 strong liquor, and beef. 123 00:06:47,190 --> 00:06:48,120 Make it quick, please. 124 00:06:48,120 --> 00:06:49,050 We're starving. 125 00:06:49,560 --> 00:06:50,220 Right away! 126 00:06:50,680 --> 00:06:51,310 Come, buddy, 127 00:06:51,310 --> 00:06:52,310 let's sit inside. 128 00:07:09,120 --> 00:07:10,390 Is that the guy you mentioned? 129 00:07:10,390 --> 00:07:10,800 Yes, 130 00:07:10,920 --> 00:07:11,600 that's exactly him. 131 00:07:11,600 --> 00:07:13,000 He committed murder in the Prefectural City, 132 00:07:13,000 --> 00:07:13,870 and the authorities ordered me 133 00:07:13,870 --> 00:07:15,200 to bring him to justice. 134 00:07:15,310 --> 00:07:16,800 Go ahead and arrest him, then! 135 00:07:16,800 --> 00:07:17,920 Don't you see what's 136 00:07:17,920 --> 00:07:18,550 written on that plaque? 137 00:07:18,550 --> 00:07:19,000 [Safe Haven Inn: Your Safety is Guaranteed. 138 00:07:19,000 --> 00:07:19,870 Do you know why this place 139 00:07:19,870 --> 00:07:21,240 is called "Safe Haven Inn"? 140 00:07:21,240 --> 00:07:22,720 This inn has a rule: 141 00:07:23,120 --> 00:07:23,680 whether you're 142 00:07:23,680 --> 00:07:25,390 a ruthless fugitive, 143 00:07:25,720 --> 00:07:26,830 a court criminal 144 00:07:26,830 --> 00:07:27,560 on the run, 145 00:07:27,680 --> 00:07:28,950 or a notorious bandit 146 00:07:28,950 --> 00:07:29,750 roaming the seas, 147 00:07:29,750 --> 00:07:31,120 once you enter this inn, 148 00:07:31,430 --> 00:07:32,760 no fighting is allowed, 149 00:07:32,830 --> 00:07:34,230 and no one is to be harmed. 150 00:07:35,680 --> 00:07:38,680 And we're just supposed to obey whatever the inn says? 151 00:07:38,800 --> 00:07:39,870 If they dare make such a claim, 152 00:07:39,870 --> 00:07:42,070 they clearly have the means to back it up. 153 00:07:42,070 --> 00:07:43,000 Did you see 154 00:07:43,000 --> 00:07:44,630 that delicate-looking Landlady by the door earlier? 155 00:07:44,630 --> 00:07:46,510 Her twin blades are swift and impenetrable— 156 00:07:46,510 --> 00:07:47,640 utterly masterful. 157 00:07:48,070 --> 00:07:48,600 It is said 158 00:07:49,000 --> 00:07:51,530 that she's a disciple of Swift Blade Hu Chuan. 159 00:07:51,680 --> 00:07:53,240 You know Swift Blade Hu Chuan, right? 160 00:07:53,240 --> 00:07:56,100 He was ranked 8th on the List of Top Martial Artists. 161 00:07:56,310 --> 00:07:58,240 Though I heard he has passed away. 162 00:08:02,120 --> 00:08:03,580 Order up! Coming through! 163 00:08:04,870 --> 00:08:05,360 Gentlemen, 164 00:08:05,360 --> 00:08:06,920 here are your wines, dishes, 165 00:08:06,920 --> 00:08:07,720 steamed buns, 166 00:08:08,800 --> 00:08:09,430 meat pies, 167 00:08:10,120 --> 00:08:10,650 and beef. 168 00:08:12,390 --> 00:08:13,050 Attendant, 169 00:08:13,830 --> 00:08:14,960 I'd also like a room, 170 00:08:15,630 --> 00:08:16,630 right next to his. 171 00:08:16,750 --> 00:08:17,390 His? 172 00:08:17,630 --> 00:08:19,070 Well, he ran out of lodging money days ago. 173 00:08:19,070 --> 00:08:20,680 Now he just eats plain noodles. 174 00:08:20,680 --> 00:08:21,800 With 1 bowl lasting 3 hours, 175 00:08:21,800 --> 00:08:23,000 he takes 4 bowls a day. 176 00:08:23,070 --> 00:08:24,750 The noodles have turned to mush, 177 00:08:24,750 --> 00:08:26,810 yet he's still clinging to that bowl. 178 00:08:26,870 --> 00:08:27,930 If that's the case, 179 00:08:28,040 --> 00:08:30,160 I might be able to return and report success soon? 180 00:08:30,160 --> 00:08:30,630 Really? 181 00:08:31,800 --> 00:08:32,909 Order a signature dish 182 00:08:32,909 --> 00:08:33,970 to celebrate then! 183 00:08:34,510 --> 00:08:35,710 Let's just skip that. 184 00:08:35,789 --> 00:08:37,250 Your signature dishes are 185 00:08:37,320 --> 00:08:38,780 a bit too rich for my blood. 186 00:08:44,440 --> 00:08:45,300 That attendant 187 00:08:46,320 --> 00:08:47,550 is as skinny as a twig. 188 00:08:48,000 --> 00:08:49,630 His nickname is Cloud-Sweeper, 189 00:08:49,630 --> 00:08:51,750 coming from his indestructible iron palms. 190 00:08:51,750 --> 00:08:53,200 A few years back, 191 00:08:53,200 --> 00:08:55,730 he was a renowned master in the martial world. 192 00:08:56,000 --> 00:08:56,910 And in the kitchen, 193 00:08:56,910 --> 00:08:58,110 there's a hefty cook. 194 00:08:58,390 --> 00:08:59,910 He's a master of external martial arts. 195 00:08:59,910 --> 00:09:00,870 His body is so tough, 196 00:09:00,870 --> 00:09:02,600 as if it were impervious to blades and spears. 197 00:09:02,600 --> 00:09:04,480 Even when facing ordinary cultivators, 198 00:09:04,480 --> 00:09:06,540 he can give a good account of himself. 199 00:09:07,240 --> 00:09:08,000 How is it 200 00:09:08,000 --> 00:09:09,360 that you know all this so well? 201 00:09:09,360 --> 00:09:10,160 A few days ago, 202 00:09:10,480 --> 00:09:11,810 I tracked my target here 203 00:09:12,080 --> 00:09:13,280 and came in after him. 204 00:09:13,440 --> 00:09:15,150 Just like you, I didn't believe in their rules either, 205 00:09:15,150 --> 00:09:17,610 and I ended up getting into a fight with them. 206 00:09:17,840 --> 00:09:19,100 Did you lose the fight? 207 00:09:20,120 --> 00:09:21,720 Well, it wasn't that I couldn't beat them. 208 00:09:21,720 --> 00:09:22,980 I was still recovering 209 00:09:23,150 --> 00:09:24,150 from a demon toxin 210 00:09:24,550 --> 00:09:26,840 I had been exposed to while hunting a fiend a few days earlier. 211 00:09:26,840 --> 00:09:28,100 You're a bounty guard, 212 00:09:28,150 --> 00:09:29,880 yet you handle demon hunts too? 213 00:09:30,320 --> 00:09:32,180 I've picked up bits of all trades. 214 00:09:42,550 --> 00:09:43,080 Let's go! 215 00:09:55,550 --> 00:09:56,810 Autumn Crimson Blade! 216 00:09:57,200 --> 00:09:59,320 I've searched for you all these years, 217 00:09:59,320 --> 00:10:01,080 and you've been living it up! 218 00:10:04,080 --> 00:10:05,340 Autumn Crimson Blade? 219 00:10:05,720 --> 00:10:07,320 So you're the one they call 220 00:10:07,960 --> 00:10:09,030 Autumn Crimson Blade, the Hellreaver— 221 00:10:09,030 --> 00:10:10,720 the No. 1 on the List of Top Martial Artists! 222 00:10:10,720 --> 00:10:12,030 Quite the reputation! 223 00:10:13,910 --> 00:10:14,840 Who are you then? 224 00:10:15,510 --> 00:10:16,440 Eight years ago, 225 00:10:16,630 --> 00:10:17,550 at Lei Fort, 226 00:10:18,240 --> 00:10:19,630 you took 27 lives. 227 00:10:20,440 --> 00:10:21,480 Autumn Crimson Blade, 228 00:10:21,480 --> 00:10:23,210 I might not have seen your face, 229 00:10:23,360 --> 00:10:24,150 but I remember 230 00:10:24,150 --> 00:10:25,280 your voice clearly. 231 00:10:25,390 --> 00:10:26,390 You can't deny it. 232 00:10:27,870 --> 00:10:28,790 Lei Fort? 233 00:10:29,870 --> 00:10:31,070 It's that bandit den. 234 00:10:31,240 --> 00:10:32,440 Did you just admit it? 235 00:10:33,720 --> 00:10:34,720 Yes, it was indeed my doing. 236 00:10:34,720 --> 00:10:35,240 Great! 237 00:10:35,550 --> 00:10:36,510 At least you have the guts to admit it— 238 00:10:36,510 --> 00:10:37,910 that makes you a real man. 239 00:10:39,030 --> 00:10:39,960 What do you want? 240 00:10:40,030 --> 00:10:41,560 I've hunted you for 8 years. 241 00:10:42,000 --> 00:10:43,750 Naturally, I intend to use your blood 242 00:10:43,750 --> 00:10:46,210 to appease the spirits of my fallen buddies. 243 00:10:46,510 --> 00:10:47,510 You can't kill me. 244 00:10:48,200 --> 00:10:48,860 Why is that? 245 00:10:49,240 --> 00:10:51,440 Do you think I'd back down 246 00:10:52,000 --> 00:10:54,460 just because you have 2 lackeys by your side? 247 00:10:55,600 --> 00:10:56,330 Can you read? 248 00:11:04,910 --> 00:11:06,240 What does it read there? 249 00:11:07,080 --> 00:11:08,080 Safe Haven Inn— 250 00:11:08,670 --> 00:11:10,200 Your Safety is Guaranteed. 251 00:11:10,510 --> 00:11:11,750 The rule of this inn 252 00:11:12,320 --> 00:11:14,000 is that regardless of identity or 253 00:11:14,000 --> 00:11:15,030 background, 254 00:11:15,320 --> 00:11:17,270 no violence is permitted in this inn. 255 00:11:17,270 --> 00:11:19,080 Break it, and you'll regret it. 256 00:11:19,390 --> 00:11:19,990 Am I right? 257 00:11:21,360 --> 00:11:22,160 He's correct! 258 00:11:24,390 --> 00:11:25,600 How dare you mock me? 259 00:11:34,630 --> 00:11:36,030 Table: 10 taels of silver each. 260 00:11:36,030 --> 00:11:37,790 Spoons and teacups: 1 tael apiece. 261 00:11:37,790 --> 00:11:39,360 Plates and bowls: two taels each. 262 00:11:39,360 --> 00:11:41,020 Liquor jars: four taels each. 263 00:11:41,030 --> 00:11:42,480 Teapots: six taels each. 264 00:11:42,750 --> 00:11:43,860 The rest is undamaged, 265 00:11:43,860 --> 00:11:45,060 so I won't charge you. 266 00:11:46,270 --> 00:11:48,080 The bill sums up to 36 taels of silver. 267 00:11:48,080 --> 00:11:48,880 Who's paying? 268 00:11:49,240 --> 00:11:51,320 Landlady, you are as beautiful as a blooming flower, 269 00:11:51,320 --> 00:11:52,980 but you don't seem too bright. 270 00:11:53,150 --> 00:11:54,270 Go ask around— 271 00:11:54,910 --> 00:11:56,080 since when do bandits 272 00:11:56,080 --> 00:11:57,120 pay for anything? 273 00:11:57,670 --> 00:11:59,510 Others' rules don't concern me. 274 00:11:59,790 --> 00:12:00,750 But here, 275 00:12:01,000 --> 00:12:02,550 you follow my rules. 276 00:12:03,360 --> 00:12:04,890 What I sell isn't just food— 277 00:12:05,120 --> 00:12:06,030 it's safety. 278 00:12:07,360 --> 00:12:09,670 If any of you want bloodshed or revenge, 279 00:12:09,960 --> 00:12:11,480 you'll wait until this guest 280 00:12:11,480 --> 00:12:12,480 finishes his meal 281 00:12:12,910 --> 00:12:14,000 and steps outside 282 00:12:14,320 --> 00:12:15,390 that door. 283 00:12:23,510 --> 00:12:24,870 What kind of damned inn is this? 284 00:12:24,870 --> 00:12:26,630 Are you lecturing me about rules? 285 00:12:26,630 --> 00:12:27,720 What if I slaughter everyone 286 00:12:27,720 --> 00:12:28,600 in this shabby place today? 287 00:12:28,600 --> 00:12:29,320 What then? 288 00:12:29,840 --> 00:12:30,750 What then? 289 00:12:41,080 --> 00:12:41,680 Landlady, 290 00:12:41,840 --> 00:12:42,970 what's the verdict? 291 00:12:43,120 --> 00:12:44,440 Don't kill them. 292 00:12:45,340 --> 00:12:46,320 We need compensation. 293 00:12:46,320 --> 00:12:47,050 Understood! 294 00:13:07,320 --> 00:13:08,580 Autumn Crimson Blade, 295 00:13:08,910 --> 00:13:10,040 you got lucky today. 296 00:13:10,750 --> 00:13:11,750 Next time we meet, 297 00:13:11,870 --> 00:13:13,240 I won't go easy on you! 298 00:13:18,870 --> 00:13:19,600 Pay up. 299 00:13:22,120 --> 00:13:23,150 Why should I pay? 300 00:13:24,510 --> 00:13:26,080 You took shelter here to avoid disaster. 301 00:13:26,080 --> 00:13:27,480 Did you think it was free? 302 00:13:28,790 --> 00:13:30,270 So many people took shelter here. 303 00:13:30,270 --> 00:13:32,200 Why am I the only one being charged? 304 00:13:32,790 --> 00:13:34,720 You bear a striking resemblance 305 00:13:34,720 --> 00:13:35,870 to someone 306 00:13:35,910 --> 00:13:36,910 I once knew. 307 00:13:37,480 --> 00:13:38,540 His surname was Lu, 308 00:13:38,790 --> 00:13:39,920 and he was a painter. 309 00:13:40,320 --> 00:13:42,180 Might you be acquainted with him? 310 00:13:44,080 --> 00:13:45,440 Many people in this world 311 00:13:45,440 --> 00:13:46,840 share similar features. 312 00:13:48,750 --> 00:13:49,630 True. 313 00:13:50,560 --> 00:13:51,970 Eleven years ago, 314 00:13:52,000 --> 00:13:53,730 he looked exactly as you do now. 315 00:13:54,080 --> 00:13:55,320 By my reckoning, 316 00:13:55,630 --> 00:13:56,480 he should be 317 00:13:56,600 --> 00:13:58,400 considerably older these days. 318 00:14:01,960 --> 00:14:03,600 The total was 36 taels of silver, 319 00:14:03,600 --> 00:14:05,460 but I'll only charge you 30 taels. 320 00:14:31,840 --> 00:14:33,790 Autumn Crimson Blade! 321 00:15:10,270 --> 00:15:11,730 Do you confess your crime? 322 00:15:13,360 --> 00:15:14,790 I am the commander of Jinming Camp, 323 00:15:14,790 --> 00:15:17,240 the General of the Swift Cavalry personally appointed by the Emperor! 324 00:15:17,240 --> 00:15:19,240 How dare you raise a hand against me? 325 00:15:23,270 --> 00:15:24,730 Do you confess your crime? 326 00:15:28,870 --> 00:15:29,720 I do. 327 00:15:30,320 --> 00:15:31,870 The negligence in the Wei County famine case— 328 00:15:31,870 --> 00:15:33,120 it was that scoundrel Liang Wenjing 329 00:15:33,120 --> 00:15:34,380 who ordered me to do it! 330 00:15:35,000 --> 00:15:36,860 I knew Lord Lu was a good official. 331 00:15:36,870 --> 00:15:38,390 He only used extreme measures 332 00:15:38,390 --> 00:15:39,840 to save the people. 333 00:15:40,150 --> 00:15:41,510 But I had no choice! 334 00:15:42,080 --> 00:15:44,080 That old brute Liang Wenjing 335 00:15:45,200 --> 00:15:46,440 forced me! 336 00:15:47,630 --> 00:15:48,400 Guilty. 337 00:15:49,550 --> 00:15:50,860 Execution is hereby decreed! 338 00:15:50,860 --> 00:15:54,420 ♪ I point to the sky, I question the moon ♪ 339 00:15:54,450 --> 00:15:57,440 ♪ I'd rather be a wandering immortal in the mortal world ♪ 340 00:16:20,390 --> 00:16:20,870 Lu, 341 00:16:21,440 --> 00:16:22,900 do you know that Landlady? 342 00:16:23,360 --> 00:16:23,750 Yes, 343 00:16:24,480 --> 00:16:25,720 she used to be my neighbor. 344 00:16:25,720 --> 00:16:26,390 Neighbor? 345 00:16:28,000 --> 00:16:29,730 How come I don't remember that? 346 00:16:29,750 --> 00:16:31,240 You weren't around during that time. 347 00:16:31,240 --> 00:16:32,300 Then where did I go? 348 00:16:33,960 --> 00:16:35,760 How should I know where you were? 349 00:16:38,120 --> 00:16:39,440 Where was I? 350 00:16:42,720 --> 00:16:43,670 But still, 351 00:16:44,120 --> 00:16:45,200 I think Xin is wonderful— 352 00:16:45,200 --> 00:16:46,060 good-natured, 353 00:16:46,150 --> 00:16:46,750 genuine, 354 00:16:47,150 --> 00:16:48,200 and most importantly, 355 00:16:48,200 --> 00:16:49,660 the two of you are married. 356 00:16:50,480 --> 00:16:51,940 It wasn't a real marriage. 357 00:16:52,550 --> 00:16:53,200 We just did that 358 00:16:53,200 --> 00:16:54,330 to form a blood pact. 359 00:16:55,360 --> 00:16:56,620 That truly sounds like 360 00:16:56,720 --> 00:16:57,910 an ungrateful scoundrel 361 00:16:57,910 --> 00:17:00,040 who abandons others after using them. 362 00:17:01,080 --> 00:17:02,200 You're a hybrid of War Demons 363 00:17:02,200 --> 00:17:03,360 and the Human Race, 364 00:17:03,510 --> 00:17:04,849 burdened with the Five Deficiencies Curse. 365 00:17:04,849 --> 00:17:05,920 To escape this divine punishment 366 00:17:05,920 --> 00:17:07,000 and be reborn as human, 367 00:17:07,000 --> 00:17:08,460 you must pass five trials: 368 00:17:08,480 --> 00:17:10,030 shedding skin, replacing flesh, renewing bones, 369 00:17:10,030 --> 00:17:10,960 purifying blood, and transforming the heart. 370 00:17:10,960 --> 00:17:12,790 Each trial hangs by a thread between life and death. 371 00:17:12,790 --> 00:17:14,349 You must find a blood relative 372 00:17:14,349 --> 00:17:15,640 to form a blood pact with you, 373 00:17:15,640 --> 00:17:17,680 linking your consciousnesses as one, 374 00:17:17,680 --> 00:17:19,030 so when you stand at death's door, 375 00:17:19,030 --> 00:17:20,349 that bond may grant you a lifeline— 376 00:17:20,349 --> 00:17:21,680 a chance to cheat death. 377 00:17:22,270 --> 00:17:23,310 You have no family, 378 00:17:23,310 --> 00:17:24,770 so you had to marry someone 379 00:17:24,829 --> 00:17:26,829 to establish this blood pact. 380 00:17:28,310 --> 00:17:29,000 So what? 381 00:17:29,750 --> 00:17:31,150 So, the marriage is real— 382 00:17:31,350 --> 00:17:32,640 even heaven recognizes it! 383 00:17:32,640 --> 00:17:34,170 By what right do you deny it? 384 00:17:34,720 --> 00:17:35,270 Besides, 385 00:17:35,550 --> 00:17:36,960 Xin is a good woman. 386 00:17:37,400 --> 00:17:38,860 Why are you rejecting her? 387 00:17:42,880 --> 00:17:43,610 Who's there? 388 00:17:45,830 --> 00:17:46,830 Where did they go? 389 00:18:14,390 --> 00:18:16,070 She's in love with someone else. 390 00:18:16,070 --> 00:18:18,030 She claimed she was cursed to bring misfortune to her husband 391 00:18:18,030 --> 00:18:19,880 and wanted to marry a death row prisoner 392 00:18:19,880 --> 00:18:21,440 to dispel the bad luck— 393 00:18:21,880 --> 00:18:22,960 so she wouldn't harm 394 00:18:22,960 --> 00:18:24,290 the one she truly loves. 395 00:18:27,200 --> 00:18:28,460 I wasn't aware of that. 396 00:18:28,720 --> 00:18:29,590 This marriage 397 00:18:29,750 --> 00:18:31,070 was merely a deal. 398 00:18:31,510 --> 00:18:32,970 We each got what we needed. 399 00:18:33,070 --> 00:18:33,960 She and I will 400 00:18:34,510 --> 00:18:35,680 never meet again. 401 00:18:39,270 --> 00:18:40,200 It's rare to meet 402 00:18:40,680 --> 00:18:41,750 such a fine woman. 403 00:18:42,550 --> 00:18:43,210 What a pity. 404 00:18:43,830 --> 00:18:45,160 But she's a cultivator— 405 00:18:45,230 --> 00:18:46,240 she will live a long life. 406 00:18:46,240 --> 00:18:48,110 Perhaps after you pass the remaining trials, 407 00:18:48,110 --> 00:18:50,040 fate may bring you together again. 408 00:18:53,720 --> 00:18:54,850 What's the plan now? 409 00:18:57,680 --> 00:18:59,080 You've lost your memory. 410 00:18:59,410 --> 00:19:02,670 Obviously, we go to Chongling Valley for the bone renewal. 411 00:19:03,350 --> 00:19:03,790 Right. 412 00:19:04,240 --> 00:19:05,040 Bone renewal. 413 00:19:07,240 --> 00:19:08,100 Master Autumn, 414 00:19:08,270 --> 00:19:09,070 are you awake? 415 00:19:09,510 --> 00:19:10,400 Would you honor me 416 00:19:10,400 --> 00:19:11,660 with a cup of cold wine? 417 00:19:14,030 --> 00:19:14,890 Master Autumn— 418 00:19:16,360 --> 00:19:17,560 he's calling for you. 419 00:19:20,960 --> 00:19:22,160 Come, Master Autumn, 420 00:19:22,480 --> 00:19:23,510 let me properly introduce myself. 421 00:19:23,510 --> 00:19:24,790 I am Lord of Rust-Sword, 422 00:19:24,790 --> 00:19:26,510 ranked No. 2 on the List of Top Martial Artists. 423 00:19:26,510 --> 00:19:28,070 I was blind earlier— 424 00:19:28,400 --> 00:19:30,860 I failed to recognize your esteemed status. 425 00:19:35,400 --> 00:19:36,480 I heard you had enlisted 426 00:19:36,480 --> 00:19:38,160 and were stationed at the western frontier, 427 00:19:38,160 --> 00:19:38,790 and I thought 428 00:19:38,790 --> 00:19:40,160 I'd never have the honor of meeting you in this lifetime. 429 00:19:40,160 --> 00:19:41,690 To encounter you here today 430 00:19:41,920 --> 00:19:43,120 is truly a privilege. 431 00:19:43,680 --> 00:19:44,540 Master Autumn, 432 00:19:44,720 --> 00:19:46,450 let me offer you another toast. 433 00:19:49,200 --> 00:19:51,130 You are Lord of Rust-Sword, right? 434 00:19:51,750 --> 00:19:52,280 Exactly. 435 00:19:52,550 --> 00:19:54,070 The second on the List of Top Martial Artists, 436 00:19:54,070 --> 00:19:55,070 Rust-Sword Peak— 437 00:19:55,070 --> 00:19:56,000 that would be me. 438 00:19:56,790 --> 00:19:58,250 Are you Master Rust, then? 439 00:20:00,400 --> 00:20:01,890 I'm not Master Autumn either. 440 00:20:01,890 --> 00:20:02,830 "Autumn Crimson Blade" 441 00:20:02,830 --> 00:20:03,890 is just an epithet. 442 00:20:05,880 --> 00:20:07,680 No wonder it sounded so awkward. 443 00:20:09,000 --> 00:20:10,200 Then you're Master Blade. 444 00:20:10,200 --> 00:20:11,600 Let us drink another cup. 445 00:20:17,920 --> 00:20:18,510 And you, sir— 446 00:20:18,510 --> 00:20:20,100 since you're a friend of Master Blade, 447 00:20:20,100 --> 00:20:20,640 you must possess 448 00:20:20,640 --> 00:20:22,110 considerable skill yourself. 449 00:20:22,110 --> 00:20:24,510 Might I ask what your ranking is on the list? 450 00:20:26,590 --> 00:20:28,400 I am Chu Ying. 451 00:20:28,790 --> 00:20:30,390 Haven't you ever heard of me? 452 00:20:32,510 --> 00:20:33,310 I have not. 453 00:20:34,400 --> 00:20:35,440 Then that is as it should be. 454 00:20:35,440 --> 00:20:36,480 My abilities are modest— 455 00:20:36,480 --> 00:20:37,880 I hold no rank on the list. 456 00:20:39,680 --> 00:20:40,240 Great. 457 00:20:46,750 --> 00:20:47,550 Master Blade, 458 00:20:47,960 --> 00:20:48,720 to be frank, 459 00:20:49,240 --> 00:20:51,030 in all my years roaming the martial world, 460 00:20:51,030 --> 00:20:53,480 I've encountered many exceptional talents. 461 00:20:53,480 --> 00:20:55,440 Even those from esteemed cultivation clans 462 00:20:55,440 --> 00:20:57,970 never struck me as particularly remarkable. 463 00:20:58,920 --> 00:21:00,520 But you alone are different. 464 00:21:00,750 --> 00:21:01,550 I regard you 465 00:21:01,550 --> 00:21:02,920 as my lifelong role model, 466 00:21:02,920 --> 00:21:04,030 my fated rival, 467 00:21:04,400 --> 00:21:06,000 and my only worthy opponent! 468 00:21:08,270 --> 00:21:09,550 Feel free to say such things— 469 00:21:09,550 --> 00:21:11,610 but let's not actually cross blades. 470 00:21:12,160 --> 00:21:13,750 Charging solo into Ma Fort, 471 00:21:14,160 --> 00:21:16,270 eliminating the Eight Villains at Yanhui Mountain, 472 00:21:16,270 --> 00:21:18,070 executing the tyrant Xu Ling in Taizi Village— 473 00:21:18,070 --> 00:21:18,590 and 474 00:21:18,920 --> 00:21:19,650 my favorite— 475 00:21:20,030 --> 00:21:21,750 storming the immortal's manor at Yunmen Pass, 476 00:21:21,750 --> 00:21:24,270 toppling the alchemy furnace, and slaying the demonic cultivator. 477 00:21:24,270 --> 00:21:25,330 Each of these deeds 478 00:21:25,400 --> 00:21:26,160 is something I've dreamed of accomplishing 479 00:21:26,160 --> 00:21:27,090 but never could. 480 00:21:28,270 --> 00:21:29,730 Those were all in the past. 481 00:21:29,920 --> 00:21:31,920 I've left the martial world behind. 482 00:21:32,430 --> 00:21:33,110 Whether you've retired or not 483 00:21:33,110 --> 00:21:33,970 is your affair. 484 00:21:34,310 --> 00:21:35,270 But in my heart, 485 00:21:35,720 --> 00:21:37,350 my goal remains to surpass you 486 00:21:37,350 --> 00:21:39,950 and become the Human Race's No. 1 martial hero. 487 00:21:41,720 --> 00:21:42,200 Great! 488 00:21:42,790 --> 00:21:45,270 Though I may lag slightly behind you, 489 00:21:46,480 --> 00:21:48,210 I too possess uncommon talent. 490 00:21:48,640 --> 00:21:49,960 Back in the day, several immortal sects 491 00:21:49,960 --> 00:21:51,200 sought to take me as a disciple, 492 00:21:51,200 --> 00:21:52,660 but I refused every offer. 493 00:21:53,310 --> 00:21:53,880 Why? 494 00:21:54,440 --> 00:21:56,030 In this era, cultivators dominate the scene. 495 00:21:56,030 --> 00:21:58,110 Both court and commoners revere the path of spiritual practice. 496 00:21:58,110 --> 00:21:59,480 From birth, 497 00:21:59,830 --> 00:22:01,200 those who lack immortal perception 498 00:22:01,200 --> 00:22:02,400 are deemed inferior. 499 00:22:02,880 --> 00:22:04,340 I find this deeply flawed. 500 00:22:04,640 --> 00:22:06,350 A simple, mundane life is valid. 501 00:22:06,350 --> 00:22:08,310 Secluded mountain cultivation is valid. 502 00:22:08,310 --> 00:22:10,240 Farming, trade, peddling, and labor— 503 00:22:10,240 --> 00:22:11,310 all are valid ways to live. 504 00:22:11,310 --> 00:22:13,440 Since when does a way of life have a hierarchy? 505 00:22:13,440 --> 00:22:15,040 I aim to shatter this notion. 506 00:22:15,350 --> 00:22:16,920 I want to ascend to sainthood through martial prowess 507 00:22:16,920 --> 00:22:18,070 to show the world 508 00:22:18,310 --> 00:22:21,040 that cultivation isn't the only righteous path. 509 00:22:21,640 --> 00:22:23,640 If your dream is to be a martial hero, 510 00:22:23,960 --> 00:22:24,790 why did you become 511 00:22:24,790 --> 00:22:26,650 a bounty guard serving the court? 512 00:22:28,110 --> 00:22:29,910 Being a martial hero isn't easy. 513 00:22:30,030 --> 00:22:31,440 Food, lodging, 514 00:22:31,830 --> 00:22:33,160 bowls, plates, and everything else on the road— 515 00:22:33,160 --> 00:22:34,290 nothing comes free. 516 00:22:34,960 --> 00:22:36,560 If I didn't take on side jobs, 517 00:22:36,750 --> 00:22:38,950 I couldn't afford to keep myself alive. 518 00:22:39,350 --> 00:22:41,280 Is a bounty guard that profitable? 519 00:22:41,510 --> 00:22:42,240 Absolutely. 520 00:22:43,480 --> 00:22:44,140 Look at him— 521 00:22:44,510 --> 00:22:46,070 seems like a pathetic fellow, 522 00:22:46,070 --> 00:22:48,270 yet his head is worth 50 taels of silver. 523 00:22:48,510 --> 00:22:49,910 What crime did he commit? 524 00:22:50,160 --> 00:22:51,510 He's a hopeless gambling addict. 525 00:22:51,510 --> 00:22:52,370 Short on money, 526 00:22:52,790 --> 00:22:54,000 he killed the landlord's entire family, 527 00:22:54,000 --> 00:22:55,160 who had kindly taken him in, 528 00:22:55,160 --> 00:22:56,510 totaling 7 people, young and old. 529 00:22:56,510 --> 00:22:58,370 The youngest was just 3 years old. 530 00:22:59,200 --> 00:23:00,860 Then he truly deserves death. 531 00:23:01,030 --> 00:23:01,960 It won't be long. 532 00:23:01,960 --> 00:23:03,360 He's almost out of money. 533 00:23:03,790 --> 00:23:04,270 Hey, 534 00:23:04,960 --> 00:23:07,030 time to pay for today's noodles, isn't it? 535 00:23:07,030 --> 00:23:07,690 Alright... 536 00:23:08,070 --> 00:23:09,070 I... I know. 537 00:23:32,640 --> 00:23:33,370 Who's there? 538 00:23:44,480 --> 00:23:45,680 Don't be afraid, My Lord! 539 00:23:45,680 --> 00:23:47,010 It's not that madwoman! 540 00:23:47,720 --> 00:23:48,510 Good, good. 541 00:23:48,510 --> 00:23:49,030 Halt! 542 00:23:49,160 --> 00:23:49,820 Don't move! 543 00:23:58,480 --> 00:24:00,270 I am Lord of Rust-Sword, a bounty guard of Dongzhou Prefecture, 544 00:24:00,270 --> 00:24:01,790 acting under orders from Lord Xu, the Director of the Palace Administration, 545 00:24:01,790 --> 00:24:03,270 to apprehend the criminal Chen Gong. 546 00:24:03,270 --> 00:24:04,790 Given your official uniforms, 547 00:24:04,790 --> 00:24:06,400 I presume we are allies, not enemies. 548 00:24:06,400 --> 00:24:07,680 Inside the palanquin is the Head Clerk of the Central Secretariat, 549 00:24:07,680 --> 00:24:08,280 Lord Song, 550 00:24:08,830 --> 00:24:10,000 passing through this area 551 00:24:10,000 --> 00:24:11,750 and seeking a secure place to rest. 552 00:24:11,750 --> 00:24:12,610 Do you know any? 553 00:24:14,030 --> 00:24:14,890 A secure place? 554 00:24:15,440 --> 00:24:16,040 Follow me. 555 00:24:23,350 --> 00:24:24,680 Safe Haven Inn— 556 00:24:25,590 --> 00:24:27,120 Your Safety is Guaranteed. 557 00:24:32,750 --> 00:24:33,440 Great. 558 00:24:37,350 --> 00:24:38,270 This is bad. 559 00:24:38,790 --> 00:24:40,250 That Song Qingbao is here, 560 00:24:40,640 --> 00:24:41,900 and he recognizes you. 561 00:24:43,270 --> 00:24:45,000 With one of us being a constable 562 00:24:45,550 --> 00:24:47,270 and the other supposed to be dead, 563 00:24:47,270 --> 00:24:48,600 wouldn't that be a shock 564 00:24:49,160 --> 00:24:52,030 if he finds out? 565 00:24:53,880 --> 00:24:54,480 It's fine. 566 00:24:55,640 --> 00:24:57,170 We'll keep our backs to him. 567 00:24:57,480 --> 00:24:58,410 He won't notice. 568 00:25:00,440 --> 00:25:00,970 Alright. 569 00:25:09,030 --> 00:25:09,490 My Lord, 570 00:25:10,350 --> 00:25:11,950 what would you prefer to eat? 571 00:25:13,110 --> 00:25:14,110 Anything is fine. 572 00:25:14,310 --> 00:25:15,350 Bring a few side dishes, 573 00:25:15,350 --> 00:25:16,590 two plates of steamed buns, and a pot of wine. 574 00:25:16,590 --> 00:25:17,120 Be quick. 575 00:25:17,160 --> 00:25:17,820 Right away! 576 00:25:18,880 --> 00:25:19,960 Rest assured, My Lord. 577 00:25:19,960 --> 00:25:21,090 This place is clean. 578 00:25:21,270 --> 00:25:22,440 We'll leave right after the meal— 579 00:25:22,440 --> 00:25:23,900 there should be no issues. 580 00:25:26,000 --> 00:25:27,270 Assign 2 guards to keep watch outside. 581 00:25:27,270 --> 00:25:28,400 Rotate shifts for the meal! 582 00:25:28,400 --> 00:25:29,130 Understood! 583 00:25:31,310 --> 00:25:32,770 Enjoy your meal, My Lords. 584 00:25:35,440 --> 00:25:36,100 Attendant, 585 00:25:37,240 --> 00:25:38,310 could you preserve this for me? 586 00:25:38,310 --> 00:25:39,350 Don't let it spoil— 587 00:25:39,350 --> 00:25:40,810 I'll collect it tomorrow. 588 00:25:41,200 --> 00:25:43,600 You think this is a pickling jar for garlic? 589 00:25:47,480 --> 00:25:48,270 Of course, Sir. 590 00:25:48,270 --> 00:25:49,270 Whatever you say. 591 00:25:50,350 --> 00:25:50,810 My Lord, 592 00:25:50,960 --> 00:25:52,720 even if you have no appetite, please try to eat something. 593 00:25:52,720 --> 00:25:53,270 We still have 594 00:25:53,270 --> 00:25:54,680 a long journey ahead tonight. 595 00:25:54,680 --> 00:25:55,400 My stomach is in knots— 596 00:25:55,400 --> 00:25:56,030 I can't swallow a bite. 597 00:25:56,030 --> 00:25:56,960 You all go ahead. 598 00:25:57,000 --> 00:25:57,880 Please, eat. 599 00:25:59,680 --> 00:26:00,160 My Lord, 600 00:26:00,160 --> 00:26:01,960 are you facing some difficulty? 601 00:26:05,030 --> 00:26:06,240 I am Lord of Rust-Sword, 602 00:26:06,240 --> 00:26:07,400 a bounty guard from Dongzhou Prefecture, 603 00:26:07,400 --> 00:26:09,130 specializing in cases others cannot resolve. 604 00:26:09,130 --> 00:26:10,680 Simply draft your case as a formal petition, 605 00:26:10,680 --> 00:26:12,070 file it with the Dongzhou Prefecture, 606 00:26:12,070 --> 00:26:13,000 and set a bounty. 607 00:26:13,030 --> 00:26:14,200 I collect the payment, 608 00:26:14,200 --> 00:26:15,730 and the task accomplished. 609 00:26:18,270 --> 00:26:20,160 If Dongzhou Prefecture 610 00:26:20,160 --> 00:26:21,620 could handle this matter, 611 00:26:22,270 --> 00:26:23,960 I wouldn't be so troubled. 612 00:26:25,590 --> 00:26:27,000 How could there be something even Dongzhou Prefecture 613 00:26:27,000 --> 00:26:27,860 cannot manage? 614 00:26:30,030 --> 00:26:31,160 To be frank with you, 615 00:26:31,350 --> 00:26:32,550 I am ranked second 616 00:26:32,550 --> 00:26:33,590 on the List of Top Martial Artists, 617 00:26:33,590 --> 00:26:35,110 and my sword arts have reached perfection. 618 00:26:35,110 --> 00:26:36,110 As long as the compensation is right, 619 00:26:36,110 --> 00:26:37,770 any matter can be negotiated. 620 00:26:40,550 --> 00:26:42,150 This isn't a matter of money. 621 00:26:42,920 --> 00:26:44,680 It doesn't matter if you're the No. 2 on the List of Top Martial Artists. 622 00:26:44,680 --> 00:26:45,830 Even if the top-ranked warrior himself, 623 00:26:45,830 --> 00:26:47,160 the Autumn Crimson Blade, were here, 624 00:26:47,160 --> 00:26:49,820 he would fall in one move against this opponent. 625 00:26:54,010 --> 00:26:55,070 Alright, alright. 626 00:27:02,510 --> 00:27:03,640 How much farther is it 627 00:27:03,640 --> 00:27:04,570 to the Xihe Camp? 628 00:27:05,000 --> 00:27:05,920 It's less than 100 li. 629 00:27:05,920 --> 00:27:06,960 If we travel through the night, 630 00:27:06,960 --> 00:27:07,920 we'll arrive by morning. 631 00:27:07,920 --> 00:27:09,110 Once we reach Xihe Camp, 632 00:27:09,110 --> 00:27:09,570 My Lord, 633 00:27:09,790 --> 00:27:11,390 you will be completely safe. 634 00:27:11,590 --> 00:27:13,320 My personal safety is trivial. 635 00:27:13,550 --> 00:27:14,510 Lord Liang 636 00:27:14,610 --> 00:27:15,640 ordered troops of the Xihe Camp 637 00:27:15,640 --> 00:27:16,830 into the city. 638 00:27:17,200 --> 00:27:18,550 The problem is, he didn't seem to understand 639 00:27:18,550 --> 00:27:20,030 that it was utterly useless. 640 00:27:20,030 --> 00:27:21,760 If even Xihe Camp is useless... 641 00:27:24,200 --> 00:27:25,830 could it be that you've offended 642 00:27:25,830 --> 00:27:27,560 someone from an immortal sect? 643 00:27:30,350 --> 00:27:31,160 Those cultivators from immortal sects 644 00:27:31,160 --> 00:27:32,350 rarely emerge— 645 00:27:32,750 --> 00:27:34,750 they devote themselves to secluded ascetic practice in the mountains. 646 00:27:34,750 --> 00:27:36,030 How did you cross them? 647 00:27:36,830 --> 00:27:38,270 About 6 days ago, 648 00:27:40,440 --> 00:27:43,750 I was ordered to return to the capital to report my duties. 649 00:27:44,480 --> 00:27:46,880 On the way, I was abducted by a female cultivator. 650 00:27:46,880 --> 00:27:47,510 She said 651 00:27:47,960 --> 00:27:49,490 that we had worked together 652 00:27:50,200 --> 00:27:51,830 to frame her husband, 653 00:27:52,830 --> 00:27:55,030 Lu Huai, leading to his wrongful death. 654 00:27:59,590 --> 00:28:00,110 Oh no. 655 00:28:00,790 --> 00:28:03,720 He couldn't be talking about Immortal Xin, could he? 656 00:28:03,720 --> 00:28:05,310 I heard about the Wei County case. 657 00:28:05,310 --> 00:28:06,310 Everyone claimed 658 00:28:06,590 --> 00:28:08,480 Lu Huai colluded with grain merchants, 659 00:28:08,480 --> 00:28:10,350 calling him a corrupt official and vile villain. 660 00:28:10,350 --> 00:28:11,590 But I've always believed 661 00:28:11,590 --> 00:28:13,110 that to govern, one needs a bodhisattva's heart— 662 00:28:13,110 --> 00:28:15,000 yet also a thunderbolt's resolve. 663 00:28:15,000 --> 00:28:16,460 Moss seeds don't blossom. 664 00:28:16,640 --> 00:28:18,550 If Lu Huai were truly bent on corruption, 665 00:28:18,550 --> 00:28:19,680 how could the people of Wei County 666 00:28:19,680 --> 00:28:21,200 have ended up faring well at all? 667 00:28:21,200 --> 00:28:22,920 You speak wisely. 668 00:28:23,200 --> 00:28:24,400 But if that were true, 669 00:28:24,590 --> 00:28:25,030 then the cultivator would have 670 00:28:25,030 --> 00:28:27,160 slaughtered everyone she could in Wei County. 671 00:28:27,160 --> 00:28:29,270 Why pursue it all the way to the capital? 672 00:28:29,270 --> 00:28:30,930 And who exactly are the "they" 673 00:28:31,030 --> 00:28:32,360 you mentioned earlier? 674 00:28:34,510 --> 00:28:34,970 My Lord, 675 00:28:36,240 --> 00:28:37,500 wine may lift spirits, 676 00:28:37,830 --> 00:28:39,290 but it cannot drown guilt. 677 00:28:39,680 --> 00:28:40,880 If you drink any more, 678 00:28:41,110 --> 00:28:42,040 you'll be drunk. 679 00:28:48,830 --> 00:28:50,030 About half a year ago, 680 00:28:50,920 --> 00:28:52,780 a heavy rain fell over Wei County. 681 00:28:53,680 --> 00:28:56,440 All nine counties in the Yong region were destroyed. 682 00:28:56,440 --> 00:28:57,550 Everyone believed 683 00:28:58,160 --> 00:28:59,620 it was a natural disaster. 684 00:28:59,880 --> 00:29:00,590 In truth, 685 00:29:00,880 --> 00:29:02,680 it was man-made. 686 00:29:07,200 --> 00:29:07,960 Corruption? 687 00:29:08,820 --> 00:29:09,540 Yes. 688 00:29:10,400 --> 00:29:12,400 They replaced the stones with straw 689 00:29:12,400 --> 00:29:13,550 and coated them with mud, 690 00:29:13,550 --> 00:29:15,550 then built them into the riverbank. 691 00:29:17,110 --> 00:29:18,790 Once such heavy rain comes, 692 00:29:20,750 --> 00:29:22,510 nothing can hold it back. 693 00:29:23,640 --> 00:29:25,310 Every dam in the nine counties 694 00:29:26,030 --> 00:29:28,590 around Wei County collapsed. 695 00:29:29,480 --> 00:29:31,880 Countless fields of grain were destroyed. 696 00:29:32,960 --> 00:29:34,480 It's despicable! 697 00:29:36,160 --> 00:29:37,560 Absolutely despicable! 698 00:29:46,160 --> 00:29:47,270 Those damned officials 699 00:29:47,270 --> 00:29:48,640 pinned all the blame 700 00:29:48,830 --> 00:29:49,480 on Lu Huai, 701 00:29:49,480 --> 00:29:51,270 who was stationed 702 00:29:51,440 --> 00:29:52,840 near the dams at the time. 703 00:29:54,110 --> 00:29:55,550 There was no other way. 704 00:29:56,000 --> 00:29:57,880 The commoners demanded answers, 705 00:29:58,310 --> 00:29:59,370 while the powerful 706 00:29:59,640 --> 00:30:00,720 sought to control public sentiment 707 00:30:00,720 --> 00:30:01,920 and stabilize the situation. 708 00:30:01,920 --> 00:30:03,240 Someone had to 709 00:30:03,240 --> 00:30:04,370 shoulder the blame. 710 00:30:06,310 --> 00:30:08,920 And Lu Huai had disobeyed orders— 711 00:30:10,000 --> 00:30:11,880 he refrained from 712 00:30:12,550 --> 00:30:14,200 immediately controlling grain prices 713 00:30:14,200 --> 00:30:16,460 to attract merchants and ensure supply. 714 00:30:16,720 --> 00:30:17,240 Tell me, 715 00:30:17,680 --> 00:30:18,880 if you were in that position, 716 00:30:18,880 --> 00:30:20,350 would you side with officials 717 00:30:20,350 --> 00:30:21,310 who feigned 718 00:30:21,310 --> 00:30:22,440 compliance with regulations 719 00:30:22,440 --> 00:30:23,400 or with Lu Huai, 720 00:30:23,400 --> 00:30:24,400 who lost public support 721 00:30:24,400 --> 00:30:26,720 yet drew all the attention? 722 00:30:31,200 --> 00:30:32,530 I would choose neither. 723 00:30:33,720 --> 00:30:35,580 I would do as that cultivator did— 724 00:30:36,200 --> 00:30:37,860 take the fight to the capital. 725 00:30:43,240 --> 00:30:45,200 Take Lu Huai to prison. 726 00:30:47,720 --> 00:30:48,440 Lord Lu, 727 00:30:49,000 --> 00:30:50,000 this way, please. 728 00:31:00,350 --> 00:31:01,720 - Kill him! - Kill him! 729 00:31:02,030 --> 00:31:03,510 -Corrupt official! -Kill him! 730 00:31:03,510 --> 00:31:04,110 Go to hell! 731 00:31:04,790 --> 00:31:07,720 -May you die a terrible death! -Die a wretched death! 732 00:31:07,750 --> 00:31:08,440 Kill him now! 733 00:31:08,440 --> 00:31:10,110 Kill that corrupt official! 734 00:31:10,440 --> 00:31:11,110 Kill him! 735 00:31:12,590 --> 00:31:13,550 Kill him! 736 00:31:14,110 --> 00:31:15,970 Kill that corrupt official, now! 737 00:31:16,110 --> 00:31:17,830 Take the fight to the capital? 738 00:31:20,350 --> 00:31:21,750 You're not a cultivator— 739 00:31:21,960 --> 00:31:23,750 how could you possibly defeat them? 740 00:31:23,750 --> 00:31:25,720 Should inaction be the answer just because the task seems impossible? 741 00:31:25,720 --> 00:31:27,550 Where there is injustice, we must intervene! 742 00:31:27,550 --> 00:31:29,160 Even if I break my head and bleed, 743 00:31:29,160 --> 00:31:29,790 even if my feet 744 00:31:29,790 --> 00:31:31,550 never cross the capital's gates— 745 00:31:31,550 --> 00:31:32,410 so long as I act, 746 00:31:32,470 --> 00:31:33,870 someone will witness it. 747 00:31:33,920 --> 00:31:35,400 One tells ten, and ten tell a hundred. 748 00:31:35,400 --> 00:31:36,110 If among those hundred, 749 00:31:36,110 --> 00:31:37,400 one person emerges who shares my resolve, 750 00:31:37,400 --> 00:31:39,070 they will storm the Imperial Court. 751 00:31:39,070 --> 00:31:40,070 If another rises, 752 00:31:40,070 --> 00:31:42,240 they will stand before the Emperor himself. 753 00:31:42,240 --> 00:31:43,300 I refuse to believe 754 00:31:43,310 --> 00:31:44,830 such monumental injustice 755 00:31:44,830 --> 00:31:46,630 can simply be crushed into dust— 756 00:31:46,750 --> 00:31:49,350 I refuse to accept it will never be overturned! 757 00:31:52,830 --> 00:31:54,890 Such noble righteousness, Warrior! 758 00:31:56,400 --> 00:31:57,460 I am not your equal. 759 00:32:01,310 --> 00:32:02,110 Indeed, 760 00:32:03,750 --> 00:32:05,240 when I was captured, 761 00:32:05,590 --> 00:32:07,070 I too felt resentment. 762 00:32:08,240 --> 00:32:09,900 When I revealed those 4 names, 763 00:32:10,030 --> 00:32:11,510 I was filled with dread. 764 00:32:12,110 --> 00:32:13,160 But today, 765 00:32:13,590 --> 00:32:15,270 hearing your words, Warrior, 766 00:32:16,200 --> 00:32:17,830 my heart has found peace. 767 00:32:18,640 --> 00:32:20,640 Every grievance has its source, and every debt has its debtor. 768 00:32:20,640 --> 00:32:22,240 Those who frame the innocent 769 00:32:22,880 --> 00:32:24,680 will surely meet a wretched end! 770 00:32:25,850 --> 00:32:28,570 She said when she previously went to the capital 771 00:32:29,150 --> 00:32:30,810 to plead Lu Huai's innocence, 772 00:32:31,160 --> 00:32:33,090 every appeal sank without a trace. 773 00:32:34,270 --> 00:32:35,670 Are these names correct? 774 00:32:35,920 --> 00:32:36,450 And then? 775 00:32:38,350 --> 00:32:39,160 Then... 776 00:32:40,030 --> 00:32:41,550 I raced back 777 00:32:41,550 --> 00:32:42,750 to the capital at full speed 778 00:32:42,750 --> 00:32:44,810 and reported the matter to the court. 779 00:32:44,830 --> 00:32:45,480 But no one 780 00:32:45,480 --> 00:32:46,640 believed me. 781 00:32:47,110 --> 00:32:48,350 They refused to accept 782 00:32:48,350 --> 00:32:50,920 that a cultivator would interfere in mortal affairs. 783 00:32:50,920 --> 00:32:52,240 Even more, they couldn't believe 784 00:32:52,240 --> 00:32:52,880 that anyone could 785 00:32:52,880 --> 00:32:54,000 behead officials 786 00:32:54,030 --> 00:32:55,240 under the capital's 787 00:32:55,310 --> 00:32:56,680 heavy guard. 788 00:32:58,720 --> 00:32:59,790 Until that night, 789 00:33:00,680 --> 00:33:01,790 Lord Zhao 790 00:33:01,790 --> 00:33:03,350 was hosting a birthday banquet at his residence, 791 00:33:03,350 --> 00:33:05,680 with countless officials in attendance. 792 00:33:05,790 --> 00:33:06,480 After several rounds 793 00:33:06,480 --> 00:33:07,830 of drinks, 794 00:33:08,960 --> 00:33:11,160 a sudden surge of sword energy flashed, 795 00:33:12,000 --> 00:33:13,160 and Lord Zhao's head 796 00:33:14,550 --> 00:33:15,440 was gone. 797 00:33:15,830 --> 00:33:17,920 Sword energy without a trace of the attacker— 798 00:33:17,920 --> 00:33:19,550 it was the work of that cultivator. 799 00:33:19,550 --> 00:33:22,000 But that was only the beginning. 800 00:33:23,640 --> 00:33:25,110 In less than 2 hours, 801 00:33:26,070 --> 00:33:28,200 news came from the northern district: 802 00:33:28,680 --> 00:33:30,200 Lord Zhou, 803 00:33:30,200 --> 00:33:32,460 protected by layers of imperial guards, 804 00:33:32,640 --> 00:33:35,100 had his throat slit by a single sword stroke. 805 00:33:43,640 --> 00:33:44,480 Who goes there? 806 00:33:44,480 --> 00:33:46,440 I'm Li Huang, the Captain of the Northern Office Capital Guards. 807 00:33:46,440 --> 00:33:47,920 I'm here by the Emperor's order. 808 00:33:47,920 --> 00:33:50,520 May I ask if the one in the carriage is Lord Zhou? 809 00:33:52,550 --> 00:33:53,010 My Lord, 810 00:33:53,440 --> 00:33:55,770 it's the Northern Office Capital Guards. 811 00:33:56,350 --> 00:33:56,830 My Lord? 812 00:33:57,920 --> 00:33:58,520 Lord Zhou? 813 00:34:01,920 --> 00:34:04,520 That serves him right! A well-deserved death! 814 00:34:05,110 --> 00:34:06,240 Compared to death by a thousand cuts, 815 00:34:06,240 --> 00:34:08,440 a single blade was too merciful for him. 816 00:34:09,280 --> 00:34:10,630 The individuals on the list 817 00:34:10,630 --> 00:34:12,400 died one by one, in order. 818 00:34:13,000 --> 00:34:14,760 The third official, Lord Chen, 819 00:34:15,000 --> 00:34:16,320 grew frantic. 820 00:34:17,440 --> 00:34:19,800 Without even waiting for an imperial decree, 821 00:34:19,800 --> 00:34:21,440 he fled the city 822 00:34:21,920 --> 00:34:23,070 under heavy guard 823 00:34:23,070 --> 00:34:25,070 and took refuge in the Jinming Camp. 824 00:34:34,760 --> 00:34:35,550 Guilty. 825 00:34:36,670 --> 00:34:37,929 Sentence: execution. 826 00:34:38,659 --> 00:34:39,550 When the court fails in its duty, 827 00:34:39,550 --> 00:34:41,800 the blade of justice shall restore righteousness. 828 00:34:41,800 --> 00:34:42,920 You, as an official, 829 00:34:42,920 --> 00:34:44,760 withheld appeals and suppressed the truth— 830 00:34:44,760 --> 00:34:46,960 you are unworthy to share wines with me! 831 00:34:47,550 --> 00:34:48,280 How dare you! 832 00:34:50,480 --> 00:34:51,679 Let it be... let it be. 833 00:34:53,110 --> 00:34:54,150 50 taels per jar. 834 00:34:54,550 --> 00:34:55,480 Still drinking? 835 00:34:55,760 --> 00:34:56,690 That expensive? 836 00:34:56,920 --> 00:34:58,360 This inn sells safety. 837 00:34:58,710 --> 00:34:59,840 You sought refuge here after 838 00:34:59,840 --> 00:35:00,920 stirring such turmoil— 839 00:35:00,920 --> 00:35:02,510 of course the price is higher. 840 00:35:02,510 --> 00:35:03,630 Why would My Lord 841 00:35:03,630 --> 00:35:05,000 need your protection for his safety? 842 00:35:05,000 --> 00:35:05,440 That woman, 843 00:35:05,440 --> 00:35:07,480 as a cultivator meddling in mortal affairs, 844 00:35:07,480 --> 00:35:08,630 has broken her Soul Oath 845 00:35:08,630 --> 00:35:10,070 and will inevitably suffer backlash. 846 00:35:10,070 --> 00:35:11,030 Whether she survives it 847 00:35:11,030 --> 00:35:12,160 remains uncertain. 848 00:35:12,360 --> 00:35:13,440 Even if she does, 849 00:35:13,710 --> 00:35:14,480 the court has already 850 00:35:14,480 --> 00:35:15,590 dispatched letters to the major immortal sects— 851 00:35:15,590 --> 00:35:17,120 they will not stand idly by. 852 00:35:17,550 --> 00:35:19,070 Once their representatives arrive, 853 00:35:19,070 --> 00:35:20,760 her life will reach its end. 854 00:35:21,590 --> 00:35:22,590 Enough. 855 00:35:23,360 --> 00:35:25,150 If you ask me, these cultivators 856 00:35:25,150 --> 00:35:26,760 are nothing but trouble. 857 00:35:26,840 --> 00:35:28,320 The Emperor should issue a decree 858 00:35:28,320 --> 00:35:30,110 forbidding commoners from practicing cultivation. 859 00:35:30,110 --> 00:35:32,190 That way, everyone remains on equal footing. 860 00:35:32,190 --> 00:35:33,440 Even if problems arise, 861 00:35:33,440 --> 00:35:36,100 they wouldn't escalate beyond control, right? 862 00:35:40,630 --> 00:35:41,760 My Lord, be careful! 863 00:35:54,920 --> 00:35:56,190 The table costs 10 taels. 864 00:35:56,190 --> 00:35:57,590 If you cannot pay for the damages today, 865 00:35:57,590 --> 00:35:58,250 you will not 866 00:35:58,960 --> 00:36:00,710 leave this inn. 867 00:36:17,580 --> 00:36:18,080 A loose tongue 868 00:36:18,080 --> 00:36:19,280 [Jiang Ji, Lingji Mountain] 869 00:36:19,280 --> 00:36:20,880 invites disaster. 870 00:36:22,400 --> 00:36:22,930 Don't go. 871 00:36:23,400 --> 00:36:24,730 You're no match for her. 872 00:36:25,670 --> 00:36:27,070 My sincerest apologies. 873 00:36:33,510 --> 00:36:34,030 My junior sister is impulsive 874 00:36:34,030 --> 00:36:35,440 [Lin Muhan, Lingji Mountain] 875 00:36:35,440 --> 00:36:36,650 and has little experience confronting mortals. 876 00:36:36,650 --> 00:36:37,850 She lacks restraint— 877 00:36:38,070 --> 00:36:40,230 I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive her, madam. 878 00:36:40,230 --> 00:36:42,590 I will cover all damages. 879 00:36:46,030 --> 00:36:47,510 She's not wrong, is she? 880 00:36:47,880 --> 00:36:49,110 You cultivators 881 00:36:49,110 --> 00:36:50,770 truly are a source of trouble. 882 00:36:51,280 --> 00:36:53,190 Does that strike a nerve? 883 00:36:53,400 --> 00:36:54,670 Are you ashamed enough to kill over it? 884 00:36:54,670 --> 00:36:56,760 Zuo Yingying, since you're here, 885 00:36:57,150 --> 00:36:58,410 why not show yourself? 886 00:36:58,760 --> 00:36:59,480 What's the point of meeting 887 00:36:59,480 --> 00:37:00,590 when all you do 888 00:37:00,610 --> 00:37:01,870 is threaten violence? 889 00:37:02,510 --> 00:37:03,070 We walk 890 00:37:03,070 --> 00:37:04,230 different paths. 891 00:37:04,670 --> 00:37:05,480 I merely heard 892 00:37:05,480 --> 00:37:06,190 the righteous path 893 00:37:06,190 --> 00:37:07,720 had produced a bold junior, 894 00:37:07,840 --> 00:37:09,770 daring to storm the capital alone, 895 00:37:09,780 --> 00:37:11,440 and came to see the spectacle. 896 00:37:11,800 --> 00:37:13,110 Who knew the first thing 897 00:37:13,110 --> 00:37:14,480 I'd witness was 898 00:37:14,480 --> 00:37:15,880 this tigress biting? 899 00:37:16,440 --> 00:37:17,150 Lin Muhan, 900 00:37:17,510 --> 00:37:18,920 she has such a terrible temper, 901 00:37:18,920 --> 00:37:20,590 yet you stick to her every day. 902 00:37:21,910 --> 00:37:24,750 Do you just have the hots for her? 903 00:37:24,770 --> 00:37:25,630 You vile wench! 904 00:37:48,260 --> 00:37:50,810 [Zuo Yingying, Qinghong Sect] 905 00:37:51,590 --> 00:37:52,480 Lin Muhan, 906 00:37:53,230 --> 00:37:54,890 you ought to keep her in check. 907 00:37:55,280 --> 00:37:56,150 Otherwise, 908 00:37:56,800 --> 00:37:58,230 someone will die. 909 00:38:25,560 --> 00:38:28,330 [Jin Lun] 910 00:38:36,030 --> 00:38:36,830 Immortal Zuo, 911 00:38:37,480 --> 00:38:38,480 it's been a while. 912 00:38:38,880 --> 00:38:39,840 Jin Lun, 913 00:38:40,840 --> 00:38:43,030 instead of cultivating at Tianyin Mountain, 914 00:38:43,030 --> 00:38:44,400 why do you linger 915 00:38:44,400 --> 00:38:45,030 with them? 916 00:38:45,880 --> 00:38:46,740 Has your master 917 00:38:47,230 --> 00:38:49,430 decided not to accept you as a disciple— 918 00:38:49,880 --> 00:38:52,540 barring you from the Path of Severing Emotions? 919 00:38:52,920 --> 00:38:53,800 Even better! 920 00:38:54,320 --> 00:38:56,120 Abandon this ascetic practice. 921 00:38:56,160 --> 00:38:57,190 Return to the desert with me 922 00:38:57,190 --> 00:38:58,520 and indulge in freedom. 923 00:38:59,920 --> 00:39:00,720 Enchantress! 924 00:39:03,070 --> 00:39:04,000 You're all here. 925 00:39:04,440 --> 00:39:06,110 Where is Nangong from the Solar and Lunar Cavern? 926 00:39:06,110 --> 00:39:07,150 Can't you hear? 927 00:39:08,030 --> 00:39:09,440 That poser has been 928 00:39:09,440 --> 00:39:11,440 playing his flute outside for ages. 929 00:39:21,130 --> 00:39:22,780 [Nangong Guhong, Solar and Lunar Cavern] 930 00:39:34,880 --> 00:39:36,130 All that pride, 931 00:39:36,440 --> 00:39:37,710 yet so petty. 932 00:39:39,000 --> 00:39:40,060 Enough, all of you. 933 00:39:40,280 --> 00:39:41,710 Rein in your auras— 934 00:39:42,160 --> 00:39:43,820 we have business to attend to. 935 00:39:45,960 --> 00:39:48,020 Are you an official from the capital? 936 00:39:51,190 --> 00:39:52,900 We've been dispatched by our masters 937 00:39:52,900 --> 00:39:53,750 to apprehend the cultivator in the capital 938 00:39:53,750 --> 00:39:54,880 who broke the rules. 939 00:39:55,070 --> 00:39:56,550 But having been in seclusion for so long, 940 00:39:56,550 --> 00:39:57,480 we've forgotten the way. 941 00:39:57,480 --> 00:39:58,280 May I ask 942 00:39:58,590 --> 00:40:00,390 how far the capital is from here? 943 00:40:02,710 --> 00:40:03,710 Make way, please! 944 00:40:05,630 --> 00:40:06,440 So you're 945 00:40:06,670 --> 00:40:08,550 all cultivators 946 00:40:08,550 --> 00:40:10,010 from the Lingji Mountain? 947 00:40:10,670 --> 00:40:12,550 I am Lin Muhan, 948 00:40:12,710 --> 00:40:14,550 young master of Lingji Mountain. 949 00:40:14,550 --> 00:40:16,210 Beside me is my junior sister, 950 00:40:16,400 --> 00:40:16,930 Jiang Ji. 951 00:40:21,510 --> 00:40:22,880 I am Jin Lun, an unaffiliated cultivator. 952 00:40:22,880 --> 00:40:23,590 And the one outside 953 00:40:23,590 --> 00:40:25,050 who wields music as a blade 954 00:40:25,190 --> 00:40:27,650 is Nangong Guhong of Solar and Lunar Cavern. 955 00:40:32,800 --> 00:40:33,760 It's rather impolite 956 00:40:33,760 --> 00:40:35,360 to ask a lady's name 957 00:40:36,030 --> 00:40:37,320 so abruptly. 958 00:40:39,110 --> 00:40:40,800 This immortal lady is called Zuo Yingying, 959 00:40:40,800 --> 00:40:43,200 from the Cyan-Rainbow Sect of North Xiang. 960 00:40:43,480 --> 00:40:45,880 Now that all you esteemed cultivators have arrived, 961 00:40:45,880 --> 00:40:48,280 I feel somewhat reassured. 962 00:40:48,590 --> 00:40:49,510 Could you please 963 00:40:49,510 --> 00:40:51,030 take that rogue cultivator away quickly? 964 00:40:51,030 --> 00:40:51,560 That way, 965 00:40:51,960 --> 00:40:53,760 I won't have to live in fear any longer.