1
00:00:31,667 --> 00:00:33,600
This medicine's pain
cuts deep into the bones.

2
00:00:34,633 --> 00:00:36,733
Your Highness,
you must endure it a little longer.

3
00:01:32,633 --> 00:01:35,033
Your Highness, you still need
to stay in the medicinal bath

4
00:01:35,067 --> 00:01:36,167
and soak for another hour.

5
00:01:39,433 --> 00:01:41,133
Thank you for your trouble, Yunhuai.

6
00:01:47,000 --> 00:01:48,067
You seem

7
00:01:48,567 --> 00:01:49,667
to be different from before.

8
00:01:55,300 --> 00:01:56,233
How so?

9
00:01:58,300 --> 00:02:00,933
You have been afflicted
by a strange poison since childhood.

10
00:02:00,933 --> 00:02:02,400
It has been incurable for a long time.

11
00:02:02,567 --> 00:02:04,467
Although you sought medical treatment,

12
00:02:05,200 --> 00:02:08,200
you had a carefree attitude, as if
you were indifferent to life and death.

13
00:02:09,200 --> 00:02:10,033
You often said

14
00:02:10,600 --> 00:02:12,067
that the remaining five or six years

15
00:02:12,400 --> 00:02:14,367
were enough to find the person
who poisoned you.

16
00:02:14,633 --> 00:02:15,300
After that,

17
00:02:15,900 --> 00:02:17,200
you would travel the world

18
00:02:17,267 --> 00:02:18,433
with no set date of return.

19
00:02:18,900 --> 00:02:20,033
But today,

20
00:02:20,433 --> 00:02:21,600
you are so eager to be cured.

21
00:02:23,133 --> 00:02:25,067
This is the first time
I've seen you like this.

22
00:02:26,133 --> 00:02:28,267
If not for your skilled treatment
back then,

23
00:02:29,800 --> 00:02:31,700
I certainly wouldn't have lived
to this day.

24
00:02:32,767 --> 00:02:33,833
Every treatment

25
00:02:33,967 --> 00:02:36,633
feels like my bones are being scraped
and my flesh is being cut.

26
00:02:37,267 --> 00:02:39,300
You always praise me for my strong will,

27
00:02:39,900 --> 00:02:41,033
but every time,

28
00:02:43,000 --> 00:02:44,833
the pain is so unbearable

29
00:02:46,567 --> 00:02:48,033
that I want to end my own life.

30
00:02:48,267 --> 00:02:48,833
Your Highness,

31
00:02:49,467 --> 00:02:50,667
you must not think that way.

32
00:02:52,033 --> 00:02:53,033
But now,

33
00:02:55,200 --> 00:02:57,200
I truly want to live a little longer.

34
00:03:00,267 --> 00:03:01,067
I've discovered

35
00:03:03,067 --> 00:03:05,400
that there are indeed some things
I haven't experienced

36
00:03:07,900 --> 00:03:09,567
that I yearn for.

37
00:04:33,233 --> 00:04:34,033
=Blossoms of Power=

38
00:04:34,033 --> 00:04:36,833
(Adapted from the novel, After My
Bloom, All Flowers Wither by Jin Huang)

39
00:04:36,900 --> 00:04:39,867
=Episode 6=

40
00:05:06,400 --> 00:05:07,000
Your Highness.

41
00:05:07,267 --> 00:05:08,433
While on patrol,

42
00:05:08,567 --> 00:05:09,767
I intercepted a secret letter.

43
00:05:32,933 --> 00:05:33,733
Your Highness,

44
00:05:34,167 --> 00:05:35,433
after you and the Crown Prince

45
00:05:35,433 --> 00:05:37,200
finished viewing
the Starvine Moss together,

46
00:05:37,200 --> 00:05:40,033
you can still read a book here
so calmly.

47
00:05:40,533 --> 00:05:43,133
Did you get to know the Crown Prince
a little better this time?

48
00:05:46,233 --> 00:05:47,067
He's very good.

49
00:05:48,133 --> 00:05:49,033
So good

50
00:05:49,500 --> 00:05:51,233
that it makes me even more guarded.

51
00:05:55,300 --> 00:05:56,600
How did you get so soaked?

52
00:05:56,700 --> 00:05:58,233
They say kittens are afraid of water,

53
00:05:58,367 --> 00:05:59,433
but this one is different.

54
00:05:59,500 --> 00:06:01,233
The harder it rains,
the more it runs outside.

55
00:06:01,467 --> 00:06:02,767
Find a cloth to dry it off.

56
00:06:04,167 --> 00:06:04,800
I'll go get one.

57
00:06:08,133 --> 00:06:08,733
Come.

58
00:06:16,867 --> 00:06:17,567
Your Highness,

59
00:06:17,933 --> 00:06:19,267
Prince Lie is here to see you.

60
00:06:19,633 --> 00:06:20,600
I won't see him.

61
00:06:21,567 --> 00:06:22,233
He said

62
00:06:22,233 --> 00:06:24,433
you will definitely change your mind
after seeing this.

63
00:06:31,467 --> 00:06:33,433
(Military Seal)

64
00:06:34,033 --> 00:06:35,200
The Anxi defense map?

65
00:06:35,200 --> 00:06:36,567
This map is a core military secret

66
00:06:36,567 --> 00:06:38,633
that the Duke of Wei's Manor
has guarded for generations.

67
00:06:38,633 --> 00:06:41,367
It marks the strengths and weaknesses
of the seven defense lines in northwest,

68
00:06:41,367 --> 00:06:43,067
the troop deployments
in sixteen fortresses,

69
00:06:43,433 --> 00:06:45,200
as well as hidden granaries
and water sources.

70
00:06:48,000 --> 00:06:49,800
If this map were to fall
into enemy hands,

71
00:06:50,833 --> 00:06:53,800
it would be like completely exposing
the vital points of northwest frontier.

72
00:06:53,800 --> 00:06:55,067
You are right.

73
00:06:55,233 --> 00:06:57,067
Even if this map doesn't fall
into enemy hands,

74
00:06:57,133 --> 00:06:58,667
the crime of losing it alone is severe.

75
00:06:58,700 --> 00:06:59,867
For losing a national treasure,

76
00:06:59,900 --> 00:07:01,500
the responsible official
will be executed by waist-chopping,

77
00:07:01,500 --> 00:07:03,133
and three generations of their family
will be exiled 1,500 km.

78
00:07:03,167 --> 00:07:05,067
If this matter were
to reach the imperial court,

79
00:07:05,100 --> 00:07:05,767
I'm afraid

80
00:07:06,467 --> 00:07:08,033
it would be a devastating disaster

81
00:07:08,933 --> 00:07:10,167
for our Duke of Wei's Manor.

82
00:07:11,933 --> 00:07:12,867
(A defense map)

83
00:07:12,867 --> 00:07:14,633
(is enough to stir up turmoil
in the court.)

84
00:07:14,633 --> 00:07:16,767
(It could bring eternal damnation
upon the Shen family.)

85
00:07:16,800 --> 00:07:18,233
(I must protect northwest)

86
00:07:18,500 --> 00:07:19,667
(in order to protect myself.)

87
00:07:19,667 --> 00:07:21,367
Will you see Prince Lie, Your Highness?

88
00:07:21,467 --> 00:07:22,033
No.

89
00:07:22,167 --> 00:07:22,833
Your Highness.

90
00:07:23,667 --> 00:07:26,333
Prince Lie doesn't know
if this map is real or fake right now.

91
00:07:26,433 --> 00:07:27,367
If I see him,

92
00:07:27,567 --> 00:07:29,067
it will confirm that the map is real.

93
00:07:30,467 --> 00:07:31,467
Return it to Prince Lie.

94
00:07:32,833 --> 00:07:33,400
Yes.

95
00:07:34,367 --> 00:07:35,567
I'll write a letter to Father.

96
00:07:35,733 --> 00:07:37,933
In a moment, you will take
this letter to Hua Fuhai.

97
00:07:38,233 --> 00:07:39,400
Have him deliver it

98
00:07:39,400 --> 00:07:40,667
to Father as quickly as possible.

99
00:07:40,700 --> 00:07:41,733
Once Father knows,

100
00:07:41,833 --> 00:07:43,167
the defense layout will be changed.

101
00:07:43,467 --> 00:07:45,300
This real map will become a fake one.

102
00:07:49,133 --> 00:07:49,733
Your Highness.

103
00:07:49,900 --> 00:07:51,400
The Commandery Princess asked Hua Fuhai

104
00:07:51,400 --> 00:07:53,633
to deliver this letter to northwest
as quickly as possible.

105
00:07:54,133 --> 00:07:55,667
Ask Hua Fuhai to use a gyrfalcon

106
00:07:55,700 --> 00:07:57,400
to get it to northwest
as soon as possible.

107
00:07:57,433 --> 00:07:58,633
Aren't you going to take a look?

108
00:07:59,033 --> 00:07:59,667
Your Highness,

109
00:07:59,667 --> 00:08:00,633
this is a serious matter.

110
00:08:00,733 --> 00:08:01,800
About this Hua Fuhai...

111
00:08:01,933 --> 00:08:02,600
It's fine.

112
00:08:03,167 --> 00:08:06,033
In this letter, I used the secret code I
share with my father and brother.

113
00:08:06,067 --> 00:08:07,300
Even if he reads this letter,

114
00:08:07,300 --> 00:08:08,700
he won't be able to understand it.

115
00:08:08,733 --> 00:08:11,033
If she gave the letter to Hua Fuhai,

116
00:08:11,100 --> 00:08:13,433
she must be certain
that no one else can understand it.

117
00:08:15,833 --> 00:08:17,200
Something major must have happened.

118
00:08:17,200 --> 00:08:18,133
Find out what it is.

119
00:08:18,733 --> 00:08:19,233
Yes.

120
00:08:27,733 --> 00:08:29,200
Your Highness, please leave.

121
00:08:30,833 --> 00:08:32,833
The Commandery Princess
didn't say anything?

122
00:08:33,000 --> 00:08:34,500
Her Highness just said three words.

123
00:08:34,833 --> 00:08:35,900
"Not seeing you."

124
00:08:45,667 --> 00:08:47,167
(Why won't she see me?)

125
00:08:48,167 --> 00:08:49,667
(Could the map be a fake?)

126
00:08:55,733 --> 00:08:56,333
That's enough.

127
00:08:57,400 --> 00:08:57,967
Yes.

128
00:08:59,767 --> 00:09:00,967
I'll only ask you once.

129
00:09:04,267 --> 00:09:05,233
Where did

130
00:09:05,867 --> 00:09:07,067
this map come from?

131
00:09:11,833 --> 00:09:13,033
You're a tough one indeed.

132
00:09:49,600 --> 00:09:51,067
What brings you here, Your Highness?

133
00:09:52,733 --> 00:09:54,033
I thought about it all night.

134
00:09:55,567 --> 00:09:57,367
Your move of creating something
from nothing,

135
00:09:57,567 --> 00:09:58,800
a secret feint,

136
00:09:59,033 --> 00:09:59,967
was truly brilliant.

137
00:10:04,800 --> 00:10:06,467
If I were to give this
to my father today,

138
00:10:07,233 --> 00:10:08,967
what do you think
the consequences would be?

139
00:10:10,433 --> 00:10:12,267
You've gone to such great lengths.

140
00:10:12,800 --> 00:10:14,400
Can we get down to business now?

141
00:10:15,600 --> 00:10:16,633
Let's speak in private.

142
00:10:18,200 --> 00:10:18,900
Don't worry.

143
00:10:19,367 --> 00:10:20,367
I'm not going to eat you.

144
00:10:29,667 --> 00:10:34,267
(Crystal Clear as Water)

145
00:10:37,267 --> 00:10:38,000
Are you hungry?

146
00:10:38,667 --> 00:10:40,233
We didn't come here to eat.

147
00:10:40,900 --> 00:10:42,700
There's no need to beat around the bush.

148
00:10:42,867 --> 00:10:44,333
What is it that you really want?

149
00:10:47,500 --> 00:10:48,733
On the day of the hunt,

150
00:10:49,467 --> 00:10:50,400
I told you,

151
00:10:51,333 --> 00:10:52,167
if you marry me,

152
00:10:52,967 --> 00:10:54,867
I will only marry you in this lifetime.

153
00:10:55,333 --> 00:10:56,033
Do you remember?

154
00:10:58,267 --> 00:10:59,267
So,

155
00:11:00,067 --> 00:11:01,867
you're using that map to threaten me

156
00:11:02,500 --> 00:11:03,800
into agreeing to marry you?

157
00:11:03,967 --> 00:11:05,667
I know the map I have is real.

158
00:11:06,433 --> 00:11:07,633
Yesterday, you bluffed

159
00:11:07,633 --> 00:11:09,000
and bought yourself some time.

160
00:11:09,800 --> 00:11:10,633
It's a pity

161
00:11:11,133 --> 00:11:13,033
that northwest
is thousands of miles away.

162
00:11:15,400 --> 00:11:17,233
Are you trying
to use my father and brother,

163
00:11:17,367 --> 00:11:19,500
and the entire northwest army
to blackmail me?

164
00:11:20,500 --> 00:11:22,333
Then I can give you my answer right now.

165
00:11:22,733 --> 00:11:23,633
Impossible.

166
00:11:29,867 --> 00:11:30,500
Move.

167
00:11:33,967 --> 00:11:36,300
Your Highness, please conduct yourself
with dignity.

168
00:11:36,333 --> 00:11:37,100
Dignity?

169
00:11:39,267 --> 00:11:41,367
Didn't you know
before you even came to the capital

170
00:11:41,867 --> 00:11:44,133
that I have a fiery temper,
and I'm perverse and ruthless?

171
00:11:44,633 --> 00:11:46,233
I've never been a gentleman.

172
00:11:47,433 --> 00:11:50,000
I know the Duke has his heart
set on me as his ideal son-in-law.

173
00:11:51,200 --> 00:11:52,267
I'll ask you one more time.

174
00:11:53,600 --> 00:11:54,367
Will you marry me?

175
00:11:54,667 --> 00:11:55,433
I will not.

176
00:12:00,767 --> 00:12:01,800
Shen Xihe, stop right there!

177
00:12:07,033 --> 00:12:07,833
Could all of this

178
00:12:08,133 --> 00:12:10,567
be a play you've written
and directed yourself, Your Highness?

179
00:12:12,133 --> 00:12:12,900
What do you mean?

180
00:12:13,500 --> 00:12:15,833
How could the Anxi defense map,
from thousands of miles away,

181
00:12:16,433 --> 00:12:18,767
be intercepted by the Imperial Guard
in the imperial capital

182
00:12:18,900 --> 00:12:20,033
and end up in your hands?

183
00:12:24,900 --> 00:12:26,600
It seems you're unaware of this matter.

184
00:12:27,167 --> 00:12:28,500
Then it must be the work of that

185
00:12:28,900 --> 00:12:30,867
resourceful and decisive brother
of yours.

186
00:12:32,133 --> 00:12:34,233
You use such tactics
to seek my hand in marriage.

187
00:12:35,067 --> 00:12:36,567
If my father found out,

188
00:12:36,567 --> 00:12:38,167
would he still see you
as his ideal choice?

189
00:12:38,367 --> 00:12:39,067
Today,

190
00:12:39,300 --> 00:12:40,967
whatever you choose to do with this map,

191
00:12:41,133 --> 00:12:42,267
do as you please.

192
00:12:48,700 --> 00:12:51,933
(Prince Xin's Manor)

193
00:13:00,900 --> 00:13:01,467
Changqing,

194
00:13:02,600 --> 00:13:04,600
did you send someone
to steal the Anxi defense map

195
00:13:04,833 --> 00:13:06,000
and then put it in my hands?

196
00:13:06,800 --> 00:13:09,067
The Anxi defense map
concerns the safety of our borders.

197
00:13:10,000 --> 00:13:11,567
Although I didn't steal the map,

198
00:13:12,600 --> 00:13:14,067
I did arrange for someone

199
00:13:14,267 --> 00:13:15,333
to deliver it to you.

200
00:13:15,800 --> 00:13:16,367
Why?

201
00:13:17,000 --> 00:13:18,000
Do you know

202
00:13:18,467 --> 00:13:20,133
the Commander-in-Chief of Hexi,

203
00:13:20,133 --> 00:13:20,867
Ye Qi?

204
00:13:21,267 --> 00:13:22,833
Isn't he just Consort Liang's cousin?

205
00:13:23,200 --> 00:13:25,800
Ye Qi covets the title of Duke of Wei.

206
00:13:26,033 --> 00:13:28,367
He bribed a protector-general
under Shen Yueshan

207
00:13:28,867 --> 00:13:29,900
and stole the defense map.

208
00:13:30,967 --> 00:13:32,867
But our men intercepted it.

209
00:13:33,200 --> 00:13:34,667
Since you already intercepted the map,

210
00:13:34,700 --> 00:13:36,400
you should have sent it
back to northwest.

211
00:13:36,433 --> 00:13:38,500
Why did you let it circulate
in the imperial capital?

212
00:13:47,400 --> 00:13:48,833
Naturally, I wanted to help you

213
00:13:48,833 --> 00:13:49,967
win the one you love.

214
00:13:50,667 --> 00:13:52,467
I've said it before.
I don't need your help.

215
00:13:52,600 --> 00:13:54,467
I will pursue the one I love myself.

216
00:13:54,700 --> 00:13:56,000
Relying on schemes and tricks

217
00:13:56,033 --> 00:13:57,167
is not what I call sincerity.

218
00:13:57,400 --> 00:13:58,667
What can be seen

219
00:13:59,600 --> 00:14:01,067
is called sincerity.

220
00:14:02,200 --> 00:14:03,167
What cannot be seen

221
00:14:03,833 --> 00:14:04,900
is called unrequited love.

222
00:14:06,400 --> 00:14:06,900
By the way,

223
00:14:07,633 --> 00:14:09,567
with your straightforward personality,

224
00:14:11,200 --> 00:14:13,067
how did you figure out I was behind it?

225
00:14:15,967 --> 00:14:17,733
I met with Commandery Princess Zhaoning.

226
00:14:18,500 --> 00:14:19,600
She was the one who guessed

227
00:14:19,833 --> 00:14:21,633
that you were behind all of this.

228
00:14:26,033 --> 00:14:27,767
I've never met her before.

229
00:14:29,833 --> 00:14:32,367
How does she understand
my thoughts so well?

230
00:14:33,133 --> 00:14:34,900
Last time,
my plan to retrieve the Rouge Ledger

231
00:14:34,900 --> 00:14:36,267
was completely seen through by her.

232
00:14:36,633 --> 00:14:38,033
It's the same this time.

233
00:14:58,333 --> 00:14:59,667
She easily...

234
00:15:02,200 --> 00:15:03,633
saw right through me.

235
00:15:08,767 --> 00:15:09,767
(Taiji Hall)
Recently,

236
00:15:09,767 --> 00:15:11,600
rumors have been spreading
throughout the court,

237
00:15:11,733 --> 00:15:12,967
saying that Shen Yueshan

238
00:15:13,367 --> 00:15:15,267
has lost the Anxi defense map.

239
00:15:15,600 --> 00:15:16,633
My dear ministers,

240
00:15:18,267 --> 00:15:19,867
have you heard of this?

241
00:15:26,500 --> 00:15:28,467
I have heard something of it.

242
00:15:28,833 --> 00:15:29,500
Your Majesty,

243
00:15:29,867 --> 00:15:32,367
the defense map is of vital importance
to the state.

244
00:15:33,133 --> 00:15:34,433
This is a serious matter.

245
00:15:35,133 --> 00:15:37,400
Although the rumors are hard to verify,

246
00:15:37,467 --> 00:15:38,967
there's no smoke without fire.

247
00:15:39,233 --> 00:15:40,233
I believe

248
00:15:40,233 --> 00:15:42,667
we should immediately summon
Shen Yueshan to the capital

249
00:15:43,200 --> 00:15:44,233
to give an explanation.

250
00:15:48,767 --> 00:15:50,867
I believe that is absolutely
out of the question.

251
00:15:52,167 --> 00:15:54,267
If someone is intentionally
creating a diversion

252
00:15:54,633 --> 00:15:56,000
to lure the tiger from the mountain,

253
00:15:56,067 --> 00:15:58,167
and northwest is attacked

254
00:15:58,467 --> 00:16:00,067
with no one there to command,

255
00:16:00,400 --> 00:16:02,900
what shall we do then?

256
00:16:02,900 --> 00:16:03,800
Indeed.

257
00:16:03,800 --> 00:16:05,633
Northwest cannot be left unguarded.

258
00:16:06,133 --> 00:16:08,133
But the Duke of Wei is indeed a suspect.

259
00:16:08,233 --> 00:16:10,500
What should be done in this situation?

260
00:16:13,633 --> 00:16:15,533
(Dong Biquan, Minister of Revenue)
Your Majesty,

261
00:16:15,567 --> 00:16:17,500
I have received reliable information

262
00:16:17,733 --> 00:16:19,133
that the Anxi defense map

263
00:16:19,133 --> 00:16:21,033
is in the hands of Prince Lie.

264
00:16:23,467 --> 00:16:24,467
Changying,

265
00:16:26,500 --> 00:16:27,833
is this true?

266
00:16:33,433 --> 00:16:34,467
Reporting to Your Majesty,

267
00:16:34,933 --> 00:16:36,200
I do not know where Minister Dong

268
00:16:36,200 --> 00:16:38,167
heard such a ridiculous rumor.

269
00:16:38,733 --> 00:16:40,433
If the defense map were
in my possession,

270
00:16:40,667 --> 00:16:42,467
I would have presented it
to you immediately.

271
00:16:44,567 --> 00:16:46,833
The Imperial Guard
has never intercepted any spy,

272
00:16:47,233 --> 00:16:48,767
nor has Prince Lie

273
00:16:48,767 --> 00:16:50,267
tortured anyone in prison.

274
00:16:50,467 --> 00:16:51,900
Since you are so certain,

275
00:16:52,400 --> 00:16:53,733
why not present your evidence?

276
00:16:53,833 --> 00:16:55,067
I am willing to face him.

277
00:16:58,067 --> 00:16:59,000
Changying,

278
00:16:59,400 --> 00:17:00,667
I ask you again.

279
00:17:01,267 --> 00:17:03,667
Did you really not intercept
the defense map?

280
00:17:04,167 --> 00:17:06,000
Reporting to Your Majesty,

281
00:17:06,233 --> 00:17:06,800
I did not.

282
00:17:06,967 --> 00:17:07,567
Good.

283
00:17:08,200 --> 00:17:09,600
Prince Lie said he did not.

284
00:17:09,833 --> 00:17:11,100
Then he did not.

285
00:17:11,567 --> 00:17:14,200
My ministers,
there is no need to chase shadows.

286
00:17:14,933 --> 00:17:16,167
Dispatch someone immediately

287
00:17:16,167 --> 00:17:17,233
to northwest

288
00:17:17,367 --> 00:17:18,833
to investigate this matter thoroughly.

289
00:17:18,833 --> 00:17:19,600
I trust

290
00:17:20,000 --> 00:17:22,367
there will be a conclusion soon.

291
00:17:24,567 --> 00:17:30,900
(Duke of Wei's Manor)

292
00:17:35,567 --> 00:17:36,100
Your Highness,

293
00:17:36,200 --> 00:17:37,467
news has arrived from northwest.

294
00:17:37,600 --> 00:17:39,967
The defense map has been safely returned
to Shen Yueshan.

295
00:18:00,867 --> 00:18:03,367
Prince Lie not only
stopped pressuring you,

296
00:18:03,433 --> 00:18:06,200
but also protected northwest
at the risk of deceiving His Majesty.

297
00:18:06,267 --> 00:18:08,467
His feelings for you are truly deep.

298
00:18:08,800 --> 00:18:09,867
Although he is unruly,

299
00:18:11,500 --> 00:18:13,167
he is ultimately good-natured.

300
00:18:15,767 --> 00:18:17,500
But as long as
the map thief isn't caught,

301
00:18:18,033 --> 00:18:19,167
the crisis in northwest

302
00:18:19,667 --> 00:18:21,067
will not end.

303
00:18:24,300 --> 00:18:24,933
Your Highness,

304
00:18:25,467 --> 00:18:26,733
Hua Fuhai sent a secret letter.

305
00:18:29,233 --> 00:18:29,867
He says

306
00:18:30,167 --> 00:18:31,967
he is greatly honored to have your trust

307
00:18:32,400 --> 00:18:34,200
and is willing to serve you loyally.

308
00:18:36,367 --> 00:18:38,300
Commander-in-Chief of Hexi?

309
00:18:39,067 --> 00:18:41,067
Ye Qi, Commander-in-Chief of Hexi.

310
00:18:42,533 --> 00:18:44,600
He has been in charge of Liangzhou
for over a decade

311
00:18:44,833 --> 00:18:46,600
and knows northwest
like the back of his hand.

312
00:18:47,300 --> 00:18:48,567
With the defense map lost,

313
00:18:49,067 --> 00:18:50,833
if His Majesty holds
the Duke accountable,

314
00:18:51,000 --> 00:18:53,600
he is the most likely person
to take over the northwest Army.

315
00:18:53,800 --> 00:18:54,800
I see.

316
00:18:56,667 --> 00:18:58,233
Hua Fuhai is trying to tell me

317
00:18:59,400 --> 00:19:01,200
that the map thief
is one of Ye Qi's men.

318
00:19:02,000 --> 00:19:04,200
Mo Yuan, send a message
to Father immediately.

319
00:19:04,200 --> 00:19:05,967
- He must investigate this thoroughly.
- Yes.

320
00:19:08,267 --> 00:19:09,833
The court discussed it this morning,

321
00:19:10,433 --> 00:19:12,067
and we only heard the news at lunch.

322
00:19:13,267 --> 00:19:15,200
Yet Hua Fuhai
has already sent us the answer.

323
00:19:21,033 --> 00:19:22,667
It must be that Tagara Incense

324
00:19:22,800 --> 00:19:24,300
that made Hua Fuhai act this way.

325
00:19:24,833 --> 00:19:26,500
It seems he has everything
under control.

326
00:19:30,000 --> 00:19:30,667
Your Highness,

327
00:19:30,967 --> 00:19:31,933
don't you think

328
00:19:31,933 --> 00:19:33,667
we're always
at a disadvantage like this?

329
00:19:35,300 --> 00:19:35,967
Go on.

330
00:19:36,667 --> 00:19:37,567
Regarding Ye Qi,

331
00:19:37,600 --> 00:19:39,767
you leaked the
information to the Commandery Princess.

332
00:19:40,267 --> 00:19:41,300
But on the surface,

333
00:19:41,567 --> 00:19:43,467
it looks like Prince Lie saved her

334
00:19:43,467 --> 00:19:44,500
and protected northwest.

335
00:19:44,767 --> 00:19:45,500
This way,

336
00:19:45,633 --> 00:19:47,600
she will surely be more moved,

337
00:19:47,667 --> 00:19:49,633
and the Duke will favor him even more.

338
00:19:51,500 --> 00:19:52,867
Changying has no chance.

339
00:19:55,733 --> 00:19:57,267
Your Highness, why are you so certain?

340
00:19:58,667 --> 00:20:00,633
Changqing and Changying
share a deep bond.

341
00:20:01,400 --> 00:20:03,733
The Duke thinks
Changqing is exceptionally talented

342
00:20:03,800 --> 00:20:05,367
and most likely to inherit the throne.

343
00:20:06,200 --> 00:20:08,800
Then, Changying would be second
only to one and above all others.

344
00:20:08,833 --> 00:20:11,567
The Commandery Princess would also
avoid the conflicts of the harem.

345
00:20:11,633 --> 00:20:12,667
The Duke

346
00:20:12,667 --> 00:20:14,233
has chosen the best path

347
00:20:14,467 --> 00:20:16,033
for his precious daughter.

348
00:20:19,233 --> 00:20:20,433
It's just a pity

349
00:20:21,100 --> 00:20:22,567
that to achieve his goal,

350
00:20:22,900 --> 00:20:25,433
Changqing would actually use
the defense map to threaten her.

351
00:20:25,667 --> 00:20:26,267
Tian Yuan,

352
00:20:26,733 --> 00:20:27,467
give the order.

353
00:20:27,867 --> 00:20:29,400
Find a way to let the Duke know

354
00:20:29,400 --> 00:20:31,267
that the Commandery Princess
was threatened.

355
00:20:32,067 --> 00:20:32,600
Yes.

356
00:20:32,600 --> 00:20:33,967
You are wise, Your Highness.

357
00:20:36,733 --> 00:20:37,233
By the way,

358
00:20:38,833 --> 00:20:40,100
didn't Zhao Zhenghao say

359
00:20:40,500 --> 00:20:42,733
he already had a lead
on the source of the strange poison?

360
00:20:42,733 --> 00:20:43,867
What's the progress now?

361
00:20:43,900 --> 00:20:46,867
Recently, a foreign merchant from the
Western Regions did come to the capital.

362
00:20:46,900 --> 00:20:48,433
He specializes in selling illicit drugs,

363
00:20:48,433 --> 00:20:50,500
including many strange poisons.

364
00:20:51,500 --> 00:20:52,367
However,

365
00:20:52,500 --> 00:20:53,933
this person is cunning

366
00:20:54,200 --> 00:20:55,167
and difficult to find.

367
00:20:55,500 --> 00:20:57,867
Vice Minister Cui is already
investigating in secret.

368
00:21:18,633 --> 00:21:19,800
Right under the Emperor's nose,

369
00:21:19,800 --> 00:21:22,067
someone dares to openly smuggle drugs!

370
00:21:22,667 --> 00:21:23,467
Investigate it!

371
00:21:23,867 --> 00:21:24,500
- Yes.
- Yes.

372
00:21:27,733 --> 00:21:28,733
The Imperial Guard?

373
00:21:29,300 --> 00:21:30,300
What are you doing here?

374
00:21:30,733 --> 00:21:33,067
It seems we are quite fated.

375
00:21:35,533 --> 00:21:37,867
We even run into each other
while investigating a case.

376
00:21:39,900 --> 00:21:41,267
What case are you investigating?

377
00:21:41,300 --> 00:21:43,033
A foreign merchant
from the Western Regions

378
00:21:43,033 --> 00:21:44,800
who has two lives on his hands
from robbery and murder.

379
00:21:44,800 --> 00:21:45,833
And you, Vice Minister Cui?

380
00:21:45,933 --> 00:21:46,967
It's none of your business.

381
00:21:48,667 --> 00:21:50,367
This foreign merchant is truly cunning

382
00:21:50,367 --> 00:21:51,633
and meticulous in his actions.

383
00:21:51,733 --> 00:21:54,167
But he can't escape
his weakness for ladies.

384
00:21:54,667 --> 00:21:56,267
My informant told me

385
00:21:56,600 --> 00:21:58,567
he's going to a tavern by the river
for some fun.

386
00:21:59,633 --> 00:22:01,067
If you're willing, Vice Minister Cui,

387
00:22:02,833 --> 00:22:04,167
you can join me in capturing him.

388
00:22:13,000 --> 00:22:14,233
Long time no see.

389
00:22:14,567 --> 00:22:15,367
Indeed.

390
00:22:15,767 --> 00:22:16,967
Come, come, have a seat inside.

391
00:22:16,967 --> 00:22:18,233
Let me accompany you inside.

392
00:22:51,000 --> 00:22:52,200
Why are you staring at me?

393
00:22:52,467 --> 00:22:54,633
I'm looking at the four big words
on your forehead,

394
00:22:54,733 --> 00:22:56,267
"I am an officer."

395
00:23:01,000 --> 00:23:02,833
You don't look like a patron at all.

396
00:23:02,933 --> 00:23:05,800
No songstress or drinking. You might
as well just announce to the world

397
00:23:05,800 --> 00:23:07,100
that we're here to arrest someone.

398
00:23:07,100 --> 00:23:08,200
You were the one who told me

399
00:23:08,200 --> 00:23:09,033
that after staking this place out
for days,

400
00:23:09,033 --> 00:23:10,400
the foreign merchant
would definitely show up today.

401
00:23:10,433 --> 00:23:11,867
Otherwise, why would I be with you...

402
00:23:13,200 --> 00:23:14,200
in a place like this?

403
00:23:17,400 --> 00:23:19,633
You say that
as if it's your first time here.

404
00:23:24,000 --> 00:23:25,267
It really is your first time?

405
00:23:28,867 --> 00:23:31,000
The only pure and innocent man
in the world.

406
00:23:31,067 --> 00:23:32,033
What's so hard about it?

407
00:23:32,033 --> 00:23:32,933
I'll just teach you.

408
00:23:34,000 --> 00:23:34,767
Don't touch me.

409
00:23:35,033 --> 00:23:36,067
Don't be ungrateful.

410
00:23:36,167 --> 00:23:37,867
I'm teaching you
how to get into character.

411
00:23:38,033 --> 00:23:39,300
You can just tell me.

412
00:23:42,600 --> 00:23:43,467
Loosen your clothes.

413
00:23:49,667 --> 00:23:51,233
A grown man being so indecisive.

414
00:23:51,233 --> 00:23:52,400
Keep your hands to yourself.

415
00:23:53,167 --> 00:23:54,067
I know him.

416
00:23:54,067 --> 00:23:55,367
Young Master Cui.

417
00:23:55,367 --> 00:23:56,233
Yes, that's him.

418
00:23:56,233 --> 00:23:57,667
It's him. It's definitely him.

419
00:23:58,133 --> 00:23:58,767
Let's go.

420
00:23:58,767 --> 00:24:00,967
If someone recognizes you,
your reputation will be ruined.

421
00:24:00,967 --> 00:24:02,533
Where do we go?
They've blocked the door.

422
00:24:02,567 --> 00:24:03,167
Go that way.

423
00:24:03,167 --> 00:24:03,933
Get up.

424
00:24:04,167 --> 00:24:04,800
Hurry, let's go.

425
00:24:05,167 --> 00:24:06,700
- Young Master Cui!
- Young Master Cui!

426
00:24:06,867 --> 00:24:08,033
You have the wrong person.

427
00:24:10,000 --> 00:24:11,400
They jumped into the river?

428
00:24:16,500 --> 00:24:17,600
Good thing we ran fast.

429
00:24:17,667 --> 00:24:19,167
It's okay. We're fine now. Here.

430
00:24:23,100 --> 00:24:23,633
Wait.

431
00:24:23,833 --> 00:24:24,633
Don't worry.

432
00:24:26,300 --> 00:24:27,500
Next time I set a trap,

433
00:24:27,600 --> 00:24:29,500
we'll definitely catch
that foreign merchant.

434
00:24:33,800 --> 00:24:34,300
Hold on.

435
00:24:38,400 --> 00:24:40,633
Why are you just taking
someone else's things?

436
00:24:41,200 --> 00:24:42,600
An official is investigating a case.

437
00:24:42,600 --> 00:24:44,233
I'm just commandeering
a piece of clothing.

438
00:24:44,233 --> 00:24:45,567
Why make such a big deal out of it?

439
00:24:45,567 --> 00:24:47,000
Do not commit an evil act,
no matter how small.

440
00:24:47,000 --> 00:24:48,633
As a court official,
you knowingly broke the law

441
00:24:48,633 --> 00:24:49,567
and you show no remorse.

442
00:24:49,900 --> 00:24:51,067
This is truly unreasonable.

443
00:24:51,667 --> 00:24:52,433
I'll take my leave.

444
00:25:03,467 --> 00:25:04,933
I was afraid you'd catch a cold.

445
00:25:04,933 --> 00:25:05,567
Put it on.

446
00:25:12,733 --> 00:25:13,800
Then you should also...

447
00:25:20,000 --> 00:25:20,733
Farewell.

448
00:25:50,500 --> 00:25:53,333
(Xu Qing, Abbot of Fahua Temple)

449
00:25:54,433 --> 00:25:57,767
Your Highness, the Jati flower incense
blended by you

450
00:25:57,767 --> 00:26:00,767
is pure, rich, and elegant.
It's truly extraordinary.

451
00:26:01,033 --> 00:26:05,267
We have been trying to create a superior
Buddhist incense without success.

452
00:26:07,000 --> 00:26:09,500
Thank you, Your Highness,
for lending your aid.

453
00:26:10,200 --> 00:26:11,200
You flatter me, Master.

454
00:26:11,800 --> 00:26:13,467
I am willing to do my part.

455
00:27:14,233 --> 00:27:16,933
Greetings, Your Highness.

456
00:27:17,233 --> 00:27:18,233
Master, may I ask,

457
00:27:19,133 --> 00:27:21,100
did Commandery Princess Zhaoning
come here today

458
00:27:21,533 --> 00:27:23,600
to specifically blend
the Jati flower incense

459
00:27:24,100 --> 00:27:25,567
for the Buddha statue?

460
00:27:28,067 --> 00:27:31,267
The last time the Empress Dowager
brought Her Highness to offer incense,

461
00:27:32,033 --> 00:27:34,633
it coincided with our temple's attempt
to blend this incense.

462
00:27:35,267 --> 00:27:37,367
However, we could not
get the method right.

463
00:27:38,167 --> 00:27:40,200
We asked Her Highness for some guidance.

464
00:27:40,467 --> 00:27:42,467
The fragrance turned out to be superior.

465
00:27:43,300 --> 00:27:44,400
Therefore, today,

466
00:27:44,600 --> 00:27:46,500
we invited Her Highness again.

467
00:27:47,000 --> 00:27:48,167
So you're saying

468
00:27:49,233 --> 00:27:50,367
Commandery Princess Zhaoning

469
00:27:51,100 --> 00:27:52,433
is an expert in incense making?

470
00:27:52,633 --> 00:27:54,867
Right now,
not just in the entire imperial capital,

471
00:27:56,000 --> 00:27:59,067
but even throughout all of Daxing,
it would be hard to find her equal.

472
00:27:59,733 --> 00:28:02,767
There are extraordinary people
in this world, uniquely gifted.

473
00:28:03,633 --> 00:28:05,867
Incense making requires
a certain spiritual gift.

474
00:28:07,300 --> 00:28:09,567
A natural talent like Her Highness's...

475
00:28:10,233 --> 00:28:13,733
I have only ever seen it
in one other person in my entire life.

476
00:28:14,667 --> 00:28:15,933
Are you referring to

477
00:28:17,833 --> 00:28:18,933
my princess consort?

478
00:28:20,433 --> 00:28:22,200
Precisely, it's your princess consort.

479
00:28:23,433 --> 00:28:25,067
It's strange, now that you mention it.

480
00:28:25,633 --> 00:28:28,800
Commandery Princess Zhaoning
has come a long way from northwest,

481
00:28:29,267 --> 00:28:31,233
but her incense-blending technique

482
00:28:31,500 --> 00:28:34,800
is identical to that
of the Prince Xin's Consort.

483
00:28:35,000 --> 00:28:36,600
There's not the slightest difference.

484
00:29:16,000 --> 00:29:18,067
Your Highness,
what do you think of this piece?

485
00:29:51,033 --> 00:29:52,000
Qingqing.

486
00:29:53,733 --> 00:29:54,933
Someone like you,

487
00:29:57,033 --> 00:29:58,833
a proper and elegant lady,

488
00:29:59,567 --> 00:30:01,000
could never do something

489
00:30:05,033 --> 00:30:06,800
so free-spirited and unrestrained.

490
00:30:12,367 --> 00:30:13,567
She is not you.

491
00:30:35,867 --> 00:30:36,467
Over there.

492
00:30:38,500 --> 00:30:40,333
Greetings, Commandery Princess Zhaoning.

493
00:30:48,167 --> 00:30:50,300
- Greetings, Your Highness.
- Greetings, Your Highness.

494
00:30:51,100 --> 00:30:53,367
I was at the temple today
to pay respects to my late wife.

495
00:30:53,733 --> 00:30:54,933
I happened to run into you.

496
00:30:55,433 --> 00:30:56,867
May I have a word with you in private?

497
00:30:58,167 --> 00:31:00,233
What is it you wish to discuss,
Your Highness?

498
00:31:00,400 --> 00:31:01,567
You can speak freely here.

499
00:31:02,500 --> 00:31:03,600
A few days ago,

500
00:31:04,500 --> 00:31:07,000
His Majesty gathered all the princes
at the hunting grounds

501
00:31:07,367 --> 00:31:08,933
to profess their feelings for you.

502
00:31:09,467 --> 00:31:11,233
At the time, you did not make a choice.

503
00:31:11,867 --> 00:31:12,667
Changying

504
00:31:12,967 --> 00:31:14,500
is my only full brother.

505
00:31:14,533 --> 00:31:15,967
I would like to, on his behalf,

506
00:31:16,500 --> 00:31:18,400
ask for your hand in marriage once more.

507
00:31:18,667 --> 00:31:19,833
Ask on his behalf?

508
00:31:20,200 --> 00:31:22,467
Although Changying can be
a bit impatient and arrogant,

509
00:31:22,467 --> 00:31:25,067
he is a sincere person
with a resolute heart.

510
00:31:25,800 --> 00:31:27,400
His feelings for you are genuine.

511
00:31:27,433 --> 00:31:29,067
That is why I have the audacity to ask.

512
00:31:29,567 --> 00:31:30,733
If you agree,

513
00:31:30,767 --> 00:31:32,333
Changying will,
for the rest of his life,

514
00:31:32,467 --> 00:31:33,467
never love another.

515
00:31:34,000 --> 00:31:36,100
If we can unite our families
through marriage,

516
00:31:36,200 --> 00:31:38,200
then regarding the future situation
in northwest,

517
00:31:38,567 --> 00:31:40,300
whatever you and Duke Wei desire,

518
00:31:40,567 --> 00:31:41,933
I, Changqing, will also

519
00:31:42,033 --> 00:31:43,700
do my utmost to ensure it happens.

520
00:31:51,300 --> 00:31:53,500
- Greetings, Your Highness.
- Greetings, Your Highness.

521
00:31:54,967 --> 00:31:55,567
At ease.

522
00:31:56,267 --> 00:31:57,567
Your Highness,

523
00:31:58,567 --> 00:31:59,800
why are you at Fahua Temple?

524
00:32:01,933 --> 00:32:04,267
I heard the ginkgo trees
at Fahua Temple are quite lovely.

525
00:32:04,567 --> 00:32:05,367
I came specially

526
00:32:05,733 --> 00:32:06,400
to see for myself.

527
00:32:11,500 --> 00:32:13,967
Why are you collecting ginkgo leaves,
Commandery Princess?

528
00:32:14,433 --> 00:32:15,267
What are they for?

529
00:32:15,367 --> 00:32:16,567
To make a medicinal pillow

530
00:32:16,867 --> 00:32:17,800
to help with sleep.

531
00:32:19,467 --> 00:32:20,067
Really?

532
00:32:20,733 --> 00:32:22,467
I often have trouble sleeping at night.

533
00:32:22,600 --> 00:32:23,467
I wonder if you

534
00:32:23,467 --> 00:32:24,933
could share the method with me.

535
00:32:25,867 --> 00:32:27,667
In that case, I will make one for you.

536
00:32:29,067 --> 00:32:29,867
Thank you.

537
00:32:33,867 --> 00:32:34,567
What?

538
00:32:35,933 --> 00:32:37,167
Do you want one, too?

539
00:32:37,967 --> 00:32:39,767
After I get the method from her,

540
00:32:39,867 --> 00:32:41,833
I'll make one for you with my own hands.

541
00:32:44,667 --> 00:32:46,567
You are frail.
I wouldn't dare trouble you.

542
00:32:46,933 --> 00:32:47,967
You should rest well.

543
00:32:48,367 --> 00:32:49,433
You're very considerate.

544
00:32:49,567 --> 00:32:51,467
But this is something I can manage.

545
00:32:52,400 --> 00:32:54,067
Please, take your time, Your Highnesses.

546
00:32:54,300 --> 00:32:55,300
It's getting late.

547
00:32:55,933 --> 00:32:57,167
I should be returning home.

548
00:33:06,400 --> 00:33:08,567
Enjoy your stroll in the garden,
Your Highness.

549
00:33:08,800 --> 00:33:09,933
I shall take my leave as well.

550
00:33:22,067 --> 00:33:22,733
Tian Yuan.

551
00:33:23,633 --> 00:33:25,200
Have someone sort through these leaves,

552
00:33:25,767 --> 00:33:26,800
pick out the best ones,

553
00:33:26,867 --> 00:33:28,533
and give them
to the Commandery Princess.

554
00:33:29,100 --> 00:33:29,700
Yes.

555
00:33:49,167 --> 00:33:49,933
Guards.

556
00:33:49,933 --> 00:33:53,133
(Boundless Compassion, Pure Inaction)

557
00:33:53,767 --> 00:33:54,667
Your Highness.

558
00:33:55,000 --> 00:33:57,200
Investigate
Commandery Princess Zhaoning thoroughly.

559
00:33:57,667 --> 00:33:59,267
Everything related to her,

560
00:34:00,733 --> 00:34:02,300
every single detail,

561
00:34:02,800 --> 00:34:04,533
no matter how minor,
must not be overlooked.

562
00:34:05,200 --> 00:34:05,733
Yes.

563
00:34:12,733 --> 00:34:16,567
(East Palace)

564
00:34:17,933 --> 00:34:18,467
Your Highness,

565
00:34:18,533 --> 00:34:19,867
the Commandery Princess was so quick

566
00:34:19,867 --> 00:34:20,867
to send the pillow over.

567
00:34:20,867 --> 00:34:22,367
And she made it herself.

568
00:34:22,700 --> 00:34:23,333
Tian Yuan,

569
00:34:23,767 --> 00:34:24,767
don't you think

570
00:34:25,100 --> 00:34:26,333
that she has been

571
00:34:27,433 --> 00:34:28,467
a bit closer to me lately?

572
00:34:28,833 --> 00:34:30,567
More than just a bit closer.

573
00:34:30,767 --> 00:34:32,033
It's a huge step forward.

574
00:34:32,667 --> 00:34:35,300
The way she looks at you, there's
a hint of tenderness in her eyes.

575
00:34:35,367 --> 00:34:36,967
This is unprecedented.

576
00:34:37,100 --> 00:34:38,667
It's a look she reserves only for you.

577
00:34:43,867 --> 00:34:44,433
Your Highness,

578
00:34:44,967 --> 00:34:46,833
regarding the case
of the Anxi defense map,

579
00:34:47,000 --> 00:34:48,800
Duke Wei started his investigation
with Ye Qi

580
00:34:48,800 --> 00:34:51,267
and has clarified many suspicious points
and gathered evidence.

581
00:34:51,300 --> 00:34:53,333
He sent men to report each finding
to His Majesty.

582
00:34:53,400 --> 00:34:54,633
His Majesty was very displeased.

583
00:34:54,733 --> 00:34:55,767
During the court session,

584
00:34:55,867 --> 00:34:57,800
in front of all the civil
and military officials,

585
00:34:57,833 --> 00:35:00,000
he reprimanded Ye Qi
for his malicious intentions.

586
00:35:00,433 --> 00:35:01,633
To show his loyalty,

587
00:35:01,700 --> 00:35:02,800
Ye Qi kowtowed on the floor

588
00:35:02,800 --> 00:35:04,000
until his head was bleeding,

589
00:35:04,433 --> 00:35:05,667
solemnly vowing

590
00:35:06,100 --> 00:35:07,933
that the matter had nothing
to do with him.

591
00:35:08,367 --> 00:35:09,833
How did Father deal with him?

592
00:35:10,000 --> 00:35:11,033
His Majesty sentenced Ye Qi

593
00:35:11,067 --> 00:35:13,033
to exile in Tongzhou.
He's to be a slave for life.

594
00:35:13,633 --> 00:35:15,933
He's forbidden
from entering the capital forever.

595
00:35:15,933 --> 00:35:16,967
He brought it upon himself.

596
00:35:17,700 --> 00:35:18,700
With Ye Qi's downfall,

597
00:35:19,000 --> 00:35:21,700
the lucrative position
of Commander-in-Chief of Hexi is vacant.

598
00:35:22,067 --> 00:35:23,267
At court tomorrow,

599
00:35:23,433 --> 00:35:25,100
there will surely be an endless argument

600
00:35:25,467 --> 00:35:26,800
over who will replace him.

601
00:35:27,933 --> 00:35:29,700
Your Highness, what are your plans?

602
00:35:35,600 --> 00:35:37,400
Let Xiao Changqing's man take it.

603
00:35:37,800 --> 00:35:39,233
The Commander-in-Chief of Hexi

604
00:35:39,233 --> 00:35:40,467
controls the northwest corridor.

605
00:35:40,633 --> 00:35:43,000
Prince Xin has had his eye
on this position for a long time.

606
00:35:43,600 --> 00:35:44,267
In the future,

607
00:35:44,600 --> 00:35:47,067
he can also help Prince Lie
pursue the Commandery Princess.

608
00:35:51,167 --> 00:35:52,033
In this matter,

609
00:35:52,367 --> 00:35:54,067
Changqing and Changying
benefit the most.

610
00:35:54,100 --> 00:35:55,367
The Duke of Wei will surely think

611
00:35:55,367 --> 00:35:57,033
that they were the ones
pulling the strings.

612
00:35:59,933 --> 00:36:02,800
Changying is already deeply in love
with the Commandery Princess.

613
00:36:03,200 --> 00:36:05,167
And Changying,
even while mourning his late wife,

614
00:36:05,167 --> 00:36:06,600
didn't forget to propose marriage.

615
00:36:07,633 --> 00:36:09,933
Since they're so persistent
about the Commandery Princess,

616
00:36:10,367 --> 00:36:12,467
we might as well crush
their foolish hopes completely.

617
00:36:12,867 --> 00:36:14,400
(Taiji Hall)
By His Majesty's decree.

618
00:36:14,600 --> 00:36:16,667
The bandit infestation in Fengzhou
has been eradicated,

619
00:36:16,667 --> 00:36:18,700
and the people's livelihood
has been stabilized.

620
00:36:18,767 --> 00:36:21,967
General Rong Ce of Anbei
deserves the highest merit.

621
00:36:22,067 --> 00:36:26,000
Effective immediately, he is reassigned
as Commander-in-Chief of Hexi.

622
00:36:26,167 --> 00:36:27,800
Thus it is decreed.

623
00:36:30,767 --> 00:36:32,033
The one who was just promoted

624
00:36:32,033 --> 00:36:33,867
is your maternal uncle, isn't he?

625
00:36:34,233 --> 00:36:37,200
Noble Consort Rong's elder brother
was enfeoffed as the Duke of Ying.

626
00:36:37,367 --> 00:36:40,633
Now, her younger brother has been
promoted to Commander-in-Chief of Hexi.

627
00:36:40,633 --> 00:36:42,067
Truly two heroes from one family.

628
00:36:42,067 --> 00:36:43,267
This is cause for celebration.

629
00:36:44,200 --> 00:36:46,767
My humble congratulations
to you two princes.

630
00:36:47,067 --> 00:36:49,433
This bandit problem
that has been going on for half a year

631
00:36:49,467 --> 00:36:52,467
happened to coincide with the vacancy
of Commander-in-Chief of Hexi position.

632
00:36:52,500 --> 00:36:54,167
And it just so happened
to be resolved then.

633
00:36:54,233 --> 00:36:55,700
What timely news.

634
00:36:56,467 --> 00:36:57,433
Very timely.

635
00:36:57,933 --> 00:36:59,567
Perhaps a month ago,

636
00:36:59,567 --> 00:37:01,400
or even longer,
it was already taken care of.

637
00:37:02,000 --> 00:37:04,467
They were just waiting
for the right time to report it.

638
00:37:04,467 --> 00:37:05,333
Exactly.

639
00:37:08,100 --> 00:37:09,433
I shall take my leave.

640
00:37:10,267 --> 00:37:11,800
Minister Hu, wait for me.

641
00:37:19,200 --> 00:37:20,700
Regarding the bandit suppression,

642
00:37:20,733 --> 00:37:22,233
I did not dare to report it rashly.

643
00:37:22,867 --> 00:37:25,033
I intended to send a message
to Your Highness

644
00:37:25,033 --> 00:37:26,067
and await your decision.

645
00:37:26,067 --> 00:37:27,700
Who would have known
that the royal uncle

646
00:37:27,733 --> 00:37:29,200
would submit a memorial behind my back?

647
00:37:29,267 --> 00:37:31,100
It was my failure
to handle the matter properly.

648
00:37:31,100 --> 00:37:32,667
I ask for Your Highness's punishment.

649
00:37:34,400 --> 00:37:35,667
This has nothing to do with you.

650
00:37:36,767 --> 00:37:37,467
You may leave.

651
00:37:38,067 --> 00:37:38,567
Yes.

652
00:37:42,000 --> 00:37:42,567
Changqing.

653
00:37:43,000 --> 00:37:44,667
With our uncle now in the position

654
00:37:45,333 --> 00:37:47,200
of Commander-in-Chief of Hexi,

655
00:37:47,600 --> 00:37:49,667
we have made many enemies at court.

656
00:37:50,100 --> 00:37:51,967
Furthermore, Shen Yueshan will suspect

657
00:37:52,833 --> 00:37:54,200
that we were the masterminds.

658
00:37:54,733 --> 00:37:57,500
This will affect your marriage
to Commandery Princess Zhaoning.

659
00:37:58,000 --> 00:37:58,967
All of this

660
00:38:00,767 --> 00:38:02,033
seems like a coincidence,

661
00:38:03,867 --> 00:38:05,233
but it's actually very strange.

662
00:38:07,900 --> 00:38:09,500
There must be someone behind the scenes,

663
00:38:10,233 --> 00:38:11,433
secretly manipulating things.

664
00:38:13,433 --> 00:38:15,367
Given Xiao Changqing's
cunning and schemes,

665
00:38:15,567 --> 00:38:17,033
if he were behind this,

666
00:38:17,433 --> 00:38:19,233
he would have done it
without anyone noticing.

667
00:38:20,233 --> 00:38:22,267
Even if he wanted
to install his own man,

668
00:38:22,567 --> 00:38:23,833
it wouldn't be this one,

669
00:38:23,833 --> 00:38:25,500
an uncle
with such obvious nepotistic ties.

670
00:38:26,467 --> 00:38:27,800
Looking at the whole situation,

671
00:38:28,500 --> 00:38:30,367
not only did he not gain any advantage,

672
00:38:30,800 --> 00:38:33,133
but he has instead attracted a lot
of jealousy and resentment.

673
00:38:33,467 --> 00:38:35,233
He's become a clear target for everyone.

674
00:38:35,833 --> 00:38:36,867
Your Highness, you mean

675
00:38:37,233 --> 00:38:39,367
someone is secretly
targeting the two brothers?

676
00:38:42,967 --> 00:38:44,867
The General of Anbei position
vacated by Rong Ce,

677
00:38:45,000 --> 00:38:46,033
who filled it?

678
00:38:47,033 --> 00:38:50,000
Someone was transferred from
the Imperial Guard to fill the vacancy.

679
00:38:50,367 --> 00:38:52,633
Then the position that opened up
in the Imperial Guard,

680
00:38:52,667 --> 00:38:53,733
who filled that?

681
00:38:54,433 --> 00:38:55,367
The Embroidered Envoy.

682
00:39:01,667 --> 00:39:03,000
Could it be

683
00:39:03,267 --> 00:39:04,700
that Tagara Incense again?

684
00:39:07,800 --> 00:39:09,567
He can silently

685
00:39:10,033 --> 00:39:11,700
infiltrate the Emperor's most rigorous

686
00:39:11,867 --> 00:39:13,367
and tight-knit circle of power.

687
00:39:14,467 --> 00:39:16,667
And he's also an enemy
of the Xiao Changqing brothers.

688
00:39:17,667 --> 00:39:18,800
Could it be...

689
00:39:20,767 --> 00:39:22,367
He is a member of the royal family?

690
00:39:35,200 --> 00:39:36,467
Reporting to Young Master Bu.

691
00:39:36,500 --> 00:39:38,533
I've already notified
all the Shunan merchant guilds.

692
00:39:38,600 --> 00:39:40,767
Once that foreign merchant
selling illicit drugs appears,

693
00:39:40,767 --> 00:39:42,067
he will be watched closely.

694
00:39:42,067 --> 00:39:42,767
I guarantee

695
00:39:43,000 --> 00:39:44,067
he'll have nowhere to run.

696
00:39:44,700 --> 00:39:46,367
He entered from the Shunan border

697
00:39:46,367 --> 00:39:48,133
and is doing business
in the imperial capital.

698
00:39:48,167 --> 00:39:50,167
He definitely can't avoid
the Shunan merchant guilds.

699
00:39:50,367 --> 00:39:51,967
You're an important figure
in the guilds.

700
00:39:52,033 --> 00:39:53,233
Don't let me down.

701
00:39:59,067 --> 00:40:00,567
- Young Master Bu.
- Young Master Bu.

702
00:40:00,567 --> 00:40:01,433
Young Master.

703
00:40:01,633 --> 00:40:02,600
Young Master.

704
00:40:03,100 --> 00:40:04,100
Young Master.

705
00:40:04,167 --> 00:40:05,833
It's been so long since your last visit.

706
00:40:05,867 --> 00:40:06,967
I thought

707
00:40:06,967 --> 00:40:08,567
you had forgotten about me.

708
00:40:11,367 --> 00:40:14,067
Your "Phoenix Tree Song" lingers
for three days.

709
00:40:14,167 --> 00:40:16,400
I won't find another like you
in the entire capital.

710
00:40:16,600 --> 00:40:17,967
Young Master.

711
00:40:18,500 --> 00:40:19,433
Did you guys hear?

712
00:40:19,767 --> 00:40:20,800
I heard

713
00:40:20,800 --> 00:40:23,700
that Cui Jinbai was having a secret
rendezvous at the riverside tavern.

714
00:40:23,833 --> 00:40:26,033
He was caught and fled in a panic.

715
00:40:26,067 --> 00:40:27,067
He jumped into the river.

716
00:40:27,200 --> 00:40:30,000
A secret meeting at a tavern
is no big deal.

717
00:40:30,067 --> 00:40:31,700
Why would he risk his life over it?

718
00:40:32,967 --> 00:40:34,967
That Cui Jinbai is such a phony.

719
00:40:35,067 --> 00:40:36,867
He acts so aloof and pure.

720
00:40:36,867 --> 00:40:39,067
I think people like him
are the most hypocritical.

721
00:40:39,333 --> 00:40:41,933
They're not as true to their nature
as you and I.

722
00:40:42,167 --> 00:40:44,067
He's all sanctimonious in public,

723
00:40:44,067 --> 00:40:44,967
but in reality,

724
00:40:44,967 --> 00:40:47,233
he's even wilder than we are.

725
00:40:48,433 --> 00:40:49,567
How interesting.

726
00:40:49,567 --> 00:40:51,233
Come, Hu, please.

727
00:40:51,233 --> 00:40:52,433
- Come on.
- Come on.

728
00:40:57,267 --> 00:40:58,167
What are you doing?

729
00:40:59,567 --> 00:41:00,633
You... What are you doing?

730
00:41:03,033 --> 00:41:04,700
You two were fighting in a tavern,

731
00:41:04,700 --> 00:41:05,633
disturbing the peace.

732
00:41:05,633 --> 00:41:07,100
According to the laws of our dynasty...

733
00:41:07,100 --> 00:41:07,933
What fight?

734
00:41:08,467 --> 00:41:11,267
With him? I was just
teaching him a lesson, one-sidedly.

735
00:41:11,267 --> 00:41:11,800
I...

736
00:41:11,800 --> 00:41:12,667
So you're admitting

737
00:41:12,767 --> 00:41:14,633
to relying on your
superior martial arts skills

738
00:41:14,633 --> 00:41:15,433
to bully others?

739
00:41:15,433 --> 00:41:16,333
He deserved it.

740
00:41:16,333 --> 00:41:17,233
Why did he deserve it?

741
00:41:21,367 --> 00:41:22,500
If you don't tell me,

742
00:41:22,500 --> 00:41:24,467
I can only handle this
according to the law.

743
00:41:25,467 --> 00:41:27,000
According to the laws of Daxing,

744
00:41:27,500 --> 00:41:29,400
those who provoke trouble
and engage in brawls

745
00:41:29,533 --> 00:41:31,233
shall receive 20 to 50 strikes
with the rod.

746
00:41:32,333 --> 00:41:32,867
Guards!

747
00:41:34,633 --> 00:41:36,233
Hu Yu, 20 strikes.

748
00:41:36,633 --> 00:41:37,400
Bu Shulin,

749
00:41:38,100 --> 00:41:39,200
50 strikes.

750
00:41:39,700 --> 00:41:40,367
- Wait.
- Yes.

751
00:41:42,800 --> 00:41:44,467
Why does he get 20 and I get 50?

752
00:41:44,500 --> 00:41:45,833
Because you are an imperial guard.

753
00:41:45,833 --> 00:41:47,967
Knowingly breaking the law
is a more severe crime.

754
00:41:52,267 --> 00:41:54,500
If I weren't helping you
investigate the foreign merchant,

755
00:41:54,600 --> 00:41:56,433
would I be hanging
around a place like that?

756
00:41:56,933 --> 00:41:58,033
I worked tirelessly,

757
00:41:58,033 --> 00:41:59,833
day and night, to find clues for you.

758
00:41:59,833 --> 00:42:01,833
And this is how you treat me,
Vice Minister Cui?

759
00:42:04,500 --> 00:42:05,233
Captain Bu,

760
00:42:05,700 --> 00:42:07,100
investigating a case is one thing,

761
00:42:07,867 --> 00:42:09,100
but you broke the law.

762
00:42:09,133 --> 00:42:10,567
These are two separate matters.

763
00:42:11,700 --> 00:42:12,633
Fine.

764
00:42:14,500 --> 00:42:15,700
I'll accept it.

765
00:42:16,333 --> 00:42:18,967
After all, I do admire
this impartiality of yours.

766
00:42:19,700 --> 00:42:21,433
Suffering a little for one of our own

767
00:42:21,600 --> 00:42:22,967
is worth it.

768
00:42:29,067 --> 00:42:29,800
Take them away!

769
00:42:32,467 --> 00:42:33,067
Let's go.

770
00:42:33,967 --> 00:42:34,500
Let go.

771
00:42:53,633 --> 00:42:55,600
You see that he's frail
and want to find a backup.

772
00:42:55,633 --> 00:42:56,833
You're playing both sides.

773
00:42:56,833 --> 00:42:58,000
Never mind playing both sides.

774
00:42:58,100 --> 00:43:00,700
What if I were to explore
a few more options?

775
00:43:00,700 --> 00:43:01,967
Among all the princes,

776
00:43:01,967 --> 00:43:04,067
Prince Lie is a rare military talent.

777
00:43:04,167 --> 00:43:06,400
I just saw that Xihe seems to admire

778
00:43:06,400 --> 00:43:07,500
Prince Lie quite a bit.

779
00:43:07,567 --> 00:43:08,767
You're from northwest.

780
00:43:08,767 --> 00:43:11,367
Could it be that you prefer
more masculine men?

781
00:43:16,167 --> 00:43:19,100
♪I've hidden so many words♪

782
00:43:19,700 --> 00:43:22,500
♪Too reluctant to tell you♪

783
00:43:23,367 --> 00:43:30,367
♪So never uncover♪

784
00:43:30,533 --> 00:43:32,900
♪The sand that slips away
with one grasp♪

785
00:43:34,033 --> 00:43:36,767
♪The flower that withers
after one bloom♪

786
00:43:37,733 --> 00:43:43,067
♪Silently buried deep inside my heart♪

787
00:43:44,833 --> 00:43:47,633
♪Every answer I gave♪

788
00:43:48,433 --> 00:43:51,300
♪Was both bittersweet and absurd♪

789
00:43:52,067 --> 00:43:55,433
♪Hiding my tear-filled eyes
when I hurt you♪

790
00:43:55,700 --> 00:43:59,033
♪How hard it truly was?♪

791
00:44:02,000 --> 00:44:05,433
♪The wounds that healed
with just a little comfort♪

792
00:44:06,433 --> 00:44:08,767
♪The lies made whole
with a single embrace♪

793
00:44:10,033 --> 00:44:15,767
♪Pretending to be brave
as if I'd never been hurt♪

794
00:44:17,200 --> 00:44:20,333
♪It's a shame I never could♪

795
00:44:20,767 --> 00:44:23,767
♪Give you a moon in return♪

796
00:44:23,900 --> 00:44:30,533
♪With the same open heart you loved me♪

797
00:44:30,533 --> 00:44:34,200
♪I've crossed the wasteland of memories♪

798
00:44:35,067 --> 00:44:37,833
♪Never knowing I was lost♪

799
00:44:38,267 --> 00:44:41,400
♪Why don't you take me away?♪

800
00:44:41,833 --> 00:44:47,800
♪Lead me out of this endless game
of hide-and-seek♪

801
00:44:49,200 --> 00:44:52,733
♪You'll never♪

802
00:44:53,033 --> 00:45:02,500
♪Know how much I long to, long to♪