1 00:02:27,880 --> 00:02:28,760 Commandant Di. 2 00:02:28,870 --> 00:02:30,240 Cut us some slack, can't you? 3 00:02:30,280 --> 00:02:30,870 No kidding. 4 00:02:31,150 --> 00:02:32,360 We won't stand a chance. 5 00:02:32,680 --> 00:02:33,680 A bet's a bet. 6 00:02:35,080 --> 00:02:36,310 Win and you get half a day off. 7 00:02:36,960 --> 00:02:37,840 Those are the rules. 8 00:02:41,150 --> 00:02:41,910 Who's next? 9 00:02:46,280 --> 00:02:46,840 Your Majesty. 10 00:02:46,840 --> 00:02:48,190 Greetings, Your Majesty. 11 00:02:48,190 --> 00:02:49,400 During drills, 12 00:02:49,520 --> 00:02:51,000 skip the formalities. 13 00:02:51,150 --> 00:02:52,000 At ease. 14 00:02:52,280 --> 00:02:53,470 Thank you, Your Majesty. 15 00:03:02,520 --> 00:03:03,190 Nian. 16 00:03:03,750 --> 00:03:04,630 In just a few days, 17 00:03:04,960 --> 00:03:06,400 your form is even better now. 18 00:03:06,800 --> 00:03:07,680 You flatter me, Your Majesty. 19 00:03:08,120 --> 00:03:08,560 I must say, 20 00:03:08,560 --> 00:03:10,080 it's been ages since we last sparred. 21 00:03:10,280 --> 00:03:11,320 I've been itching for a match. 22 00:03:12,150 --> 00:03:13,470 You want a piece of His Majesty? 23 00:03:13,910 --> 00:03:15,310 You've got to get through me first. 24 00:03:15,840 --> 00:03:16,310 Don't forget 25 00:03:16,750 --> 00:03:17,870 about the drink you owe me 26 00:03:18,240 --> 00:03:19,750 from last time we crossed swords. 27 00:03:20,030 --> 00:03:20,520 Quit 28 00:03:20,520 --> 00:03:21,710 eyeing my meager stipend. 29 00:03:21,960 --> 00:03:22,960 Next time, I'm taking you down. 30 00:03:25,030 --> 00:03:26,190 This Imperial Guard 31 00:03:26,520 --> 00:03:28,080 was built from the ground up 32 00:03:28,150 --> 00:03:29,190 by the late Marquis. 33 00:03:29,560 --> 00:03:31,030 Now they're under your command, 34 00:03:31,240 --> 00:03:32,030 and rightly so. 35 00:03:35,000 --> 00:03:35,630 Nian. 36 00:03:37,000 --> 00:03:38,190 You've done your family proud. 37 00:03:38,710 --> 00:03:39,560 My father always said 38 00:03:40,560 --> 00:03:41,120 the Imperial Guard 39 00:03:41,120 --> 00:03:42,470 is Great Ning's sharpest spear. 40 00:03:43,360 --> 00:03:44,630 It must never lose its edge. 41 00:03:46,190 --> 00:03:46,840 [One day, Nian will] 42 00:03:46,840 --> 00:03:48,150 [stand tall like the late Marquis,] 43 00:03:48,430 --> 00:03:49,360 [holding his own ground,] 44 00:03:49,840 --> 00:03:50,910 [guarding the frontier.] 45 00:03:54,870 --> 00:03:56,630 I know it's been your aspiration since childhood 46 00:03:57,240 --> 00:03:58,400 to armor up and ride into battle. 47 00:04:00,120 --> 00:04:00,680 You don't belong 48 00:04:00,680 --> 00:04:02,190 here inside the palace walls 49 00:04:02,190 --> 00:04:03,280 merely as my shield. 50 00:04:04,280 --> 00:04:05,240 My father passed when I was young. 51 00:04:06,800 --> 00:04:07,800 Your Majesty gave me 52 00:04:07,800 --> 00:04:09,000 a home and a purpose. 53 00:04:09,840 --> 00:04:11,060 Now, guarding Your Majesty 54 00:04:11,520 --> 00:04:13,100 is the only feat I'll ever need. 55 00:04:14,020 --> 00:04:14,060 And I 56 00:04:14,710 --> 00:04:15,840 do so willingly. 57 00:04:19,310 --> 00:04:20,240 I'm pleased to have 58 00:04:20,240 --> 00:04:21,280 the two of you by my side. 59 00:04:21,820 --> 00:04:23,390 You're my right-hand men. 60 00:04:25,310 --> 00:04:27,360 The safety of the capital and my own 61 00:04:27,360 --> 00:04:28,830 rest on both of you. 62 00:04:30,510 --> 00:04:31,120 Nian. 63 00:04:31,800 --> 00:04:32,800 There's one more thing 64 00:04:32,950 --> 00:04:34,190 I need you to do for me. 65 00:04:34,800 --> 00:04:36,430 Select twelve light cavalrymen. 66 00:04:36,680 --> 00:04:37,630 Train them covertly. 67 00:04:38,360 --> 00:04:39,510 What for, Your Majesty? 68 00:04:39,920 --> 00:04:41,480 You'll know when the time comes. 69 00:04:42,040 --> 00:04:42,870 I'll see to it. 70 00:04:48,000 --> 00:04:50,120 Presented Candidates, enter the hall! 71 00:05:21,480 --> 00:05:23,120 Greetings, Your Majesty. 72 00:05:23,120 --> 00:05:25,560 Long live Your Majesty. 73 00:05:51,000 --> 00:05:52,190 Just grabbed some medicinal jelly. 74 00:05:52,390 --> 00:05:53,190 Anyone want a bite? 75 00:05:54,510 --> 00:05:55,360 Come on, try some! 76 00:05:55,560 --> 00:05:56,000 Here. 77 00:05:56,120 --> 00:05:56,830 I'll take one. 78 00:05:56,830 --> 00:05:57,360 Thank you so much. 79 00:05:58,040 --> 00:05:58,480 Thanks. 80 00:05:58,950 --> 00:05:59,390 There you go. 81 00:06:05,190 --> 00:06:06,190 Tinghui, uh, hey. 82 00:06:06,430 --> 00:06:08,070 Results are coming out today! 83 00:06:08,830 --> 00:06:09,870 Don't stress. 84 00:06:09,950 --> 00:06:11,310 W-We've totally got this! 85 00:06:11,310 --> 00:06:12,070 Take it easy. 86 00:06:14,560 --> 00:06:15,310 Fuzhi. 87 00:06:15,430 --> 00:06:16,390 I'm very much at ease. 88 00:06:17,120 --> 00:06:18,630 Just... would you stop pinching me? 89 00:06:23,720 --> 00:06:24,950 They're here! They're here! 90 00:06:25,000 --> 00:06:25,750 Good news! 91 00:06:30,800 --> 00:06:32,750 Where is Candidate An Qing from Jingdu? 92 00:06:32,750 --> 00:06:34,270 Right here! Right here! 93 00:06:35,390 --> 00:06:36,390 Congrats, Miss An, on placing 94 00:06:36,390 --> 00:06:37,830 16th in the Second Class of Presented Scholars! 95 00:06:39,310 --> 00:06:41,310 I passed! I actually passed! 96 00:06:43,630 --> 00:06:45,600 Zuo Qiurong from Jingzhou. 97 00:06:48,040 --> 00:06:48,870 Present. 98 00:06:49,160 --> 00:06:51,160 13th in the Third Class of Presented Scholars! 99 00:06:53,160 --> 00:06:54,190 I passed, too! 100 00:06:54,560 --> 00:06:55,630 I did it! 101 00:06:57,480 --> 00:06:59,310 Lu Xiaowan from Qingzhou. 102 00:07:00,310 --> 00:07:01,160 Here! 103 00:07:01,430 --> 00:07:02,870 16th in the Third Class of Presented Scholars! 104 00:07:04,600 --> 00:07:06,310 I made it! I made it, too! 105 00:07:09,430 --> 00:07:10,070 Fuzhi... 106 00:07:14,680 --> 00:07:15,870 Why didn't they call your name? 107 00:07:16,680 --> 00:07:18,190 Did something go wrong? 108 00:07:21,310 --> 00:07:22,040 Fuzhi? 109 00:07:25,270 --> 00:07:27,120 I snuck into the palace to get close to His Majesty 110 00:07:28,070 --> 00:07:29,750 and eavesdrop on state affairs. 111 00:07:29,750 --> 00:07:30,600 He found out. 112 00:07:32,480 --> 00:07:33,800 I probably pissed him off. 113 00:07:34,600 --> 00:07:36,720 He is impossible to read. 114 00:07:37,630 --> 00:07:39,160 He's not going to have your head, is he? 115 00:07:39,830 --> 00:07:41,000 He's the Son of Heaven. 116 00:07:42,040 --> 00:07:43,600 Surely he isn't that unforgiving? 117 00:07:54,430 --> 00:07:56,720 Meng Tinghui from Shazhou. 118 00:08:08,510 --> 00:08:09,270 By imperial decree: 119 00:08:09,560 --> 00:08:11,190 After thorough review of the proceedings 120 00:08:11,630 --> 00:08:12,800 of palace examination, 121 00:08:13,040 --> 00:08:14,120 the talented and virtuous 122 00:08:14,270 --> 00:08:16,310 Miss Meng Tinghui of the Shazhou Women's Academy 123 00:08:16,390 --> 00:08:17,480 has claimed the highest honors 124 00:08:17,720 --> 00:08:19,200 and is hereby appointed Top Scholar. 125 00:08:19,240 --> 00:08:21,360 Let this be known to all the realm. 126 00:09:08,510 --> 00:09:09,270 Fuzhi! 127 00:09:11,630 --> 00:09:12,360 It's mine. 128 00:09:16,910 --> 00:09:17,870 It's real... 129 00:09:21,000 --> 00:09:22,240 I'm the Top Scholar. 130 00:09:22,390 --> 00:09:23,910 I'm the Top Scholar! 131 00:10:20,390 --> 00:10:21,670 Hesitating over a move 132 00:10:21,870 --> 00:10:23,120 gives away a troubled mind. 133 00:10:23,870 --> 00:10:24,750 Chancellor. 134 00:10:25,440 --> 00:10:27,320 His Majesty has formally announced 135 00:10:27,750 --> 00:10:28,480 that Meng Tinghui 136 00:10:28,480 --> 00:10:29,720 is Great Ning's very first 137 00:10:29,720 --> 00:10:31,670 female Top Scholar to sweep all three exams. 138 00:10:32,440 --> 00:10:33,600 With backing like that, 139 00:10:34,150 --> 00:10:35,150 her future in the court 140 00:10:36,480 --> 00:10:38,960 is going to be unstoppable. 141 00:10:39,670 --> 00:10:41,270 A fresh Top Scholar? 142 00:10:42,240 --> 00:10:43,720 Just a shiny title. 143 00:10:44,550 --> 00:10:46,670 She hasn't been assigned an actual post yet. 144 00:10:47,630 --> 00:10:48,440 We might as well 145 00:10:48,440 --> 00:10:51,000 send her packing back home to wait around. 146 00:10:52,030 --> 00:10:54,480 Brilliant move as always, Chancellor. 147 00:10:54,840 --> 00:10:56,790 A masterclass in statecraft from a veteran. 148 00:10:57,550 --> 00:10:58,910 I am truly in awe. 149 00:11:10,600 --> 00:11:12,630 In the first year of Great Ning, 150 00:11:13,320 --> 00:11:15,140 the Top Scholar 151 00:11:16,000 --> 00:11:19,310 is Meng Tinghui from Shazhou! 152 00:11:26,780 --> 00:11:27,460 Congrats, Meng! 153 00:11:27,550 --> 00:11:28,390 Well done, Top Scholar! 154 00:11:28,390 --> 00:11:30,580 In the first year of Great Ning, 155 00:11:32,980 --> 00:11:34,820 the Top Scholar 156 00:11:36,120 --> 00:11:39,840 is Meng Tinghui from Shazhou! 157 00:11:51,200 --> 00:11:52,150 Make way! 158 00:11:53,440 --> 00:11:55,840 Well I'll be, Meng Tinghui actually pulled it off! 159 00:11:55,840 --> 00:11:56,870 Sweeping all three rounds! 160 00:11:56,870 --> 00:11:58,150 That's insane. 161 00:11:58,150 --> 00:11:58,960 Spring House used to host 162 00:11:58,960 --> 00:12:00,000 this rising star of literature. 163 00:12:00,030 --> 00:12:00,630 Ma'am, 164 00:12:00,720 --> 00:12:02,150 we have to set up a shrine where she'd stayed! 165 00:12:02,150 --> 00:12:03,270 Damn right we do! 166 00:12:03,270 --> 00:12:04,000 I'll lead the way. 167 00:12:04,000 --> 00:12:04,670 Awesome! 168 00:12:05,150 --> 00:12:06,030 You know what? Top Scholar 169 00:12:06,030 --> 00:12:07,080 actually graced our place. 170 00:12:07,440 --> 00:12:07,960 I mean it. 171 00:12:11,000 --> 00:12:12,390 Lady Meng! Top Scholar! 172 00:12:12,390 --> 00:12:13,840 Come celebrate at Spring House! 173 00:12:19,600 --> 00:12:20,440 Tinghui! 174 00:12:21,080 --> 00:12:23,120 Tinghui! Tinghui! 175 00:12:23,270 --> 00:12:24,200 Right over here! 176 00:12:24,480 --> 00:12:24,960 Over here! 177 00:12:25,240 --> 00:12:26,910 Can you see this? 178 00:12:27,670 --> 00:12:29,240 [Rising Star of Literature] 179 00:12:29,240 --> 00:12:30,670 [The World Is Your Oyster] 180 00:12:30,960 --> 00:12:32,150 That's my girl! 181 00:12:32,360 --> 00:12:33,790 We came up together! 182 00:12:34,240 --> 00:12:35,550 Tinghui, look over here. 183 00:12:35,790 --> 00:12:37,720 Well-earned, Top Scholar! 184 00:12:38,150 --> 00:12:38,960 You see all of this? 185 00:13:09,240 --> 00:13:10,150 Top Scholar! 186 00:13:11,240 --> 00:13:12,150 Well-done, Meng! 187 00:13:13,320 --> 00:13:14,360 Bravo, lady! 188 00:13:14,630 --> 00:13:15,550 Congrats! 189 00:13:16,270 --> 00:13:17,200 You have earned it! 190 00:13:19,150 --> 00:13:19,910 Did you see that? 191 00:13:20,480 --> 00:13:21,840 We go way back! 192 00:13:24,320 --> 00:13:25,550 Top Scholar! 193 00:13:26,670 --> 00:13:28,200 Congratulations! 194 00:13:52,240 --> 00:13:53,480 Changle Street 195 00:13:53,960 --> 00:13:55,240 is where 196 00:13:55,510 --> 00:13:57,150 the entire city's old and 197 00:13:57,150 --> 00:13:58,000 new money's is going. 198 00:13:58,080 --> 00:13:58,670 Take a look 199 00:13:58,790 --> 00:13:59,960 at this storefront here. 200 00:14:01,000 --> 00:14:01,480 Right up front, 201 00:14:01,630 --> 00:14:03,240 you have the premier Silk Manor in town. 202 00:14:04,030 --> 00:14:04,510 Right next door 203 00:14:04,550 --> 00:14:06,030 is the legendary Rouge Pavilion. 204 00:14:06,600 --> 00:14:08,320 And across the street is Spring House. 205 00:14:08,960 --> 00:14:10,910 If the owner weren't tied up with family drama, 206 00:14:11,000 --> 00:14:12,150 a prime spot like this 207 00:14:12,440 --> 00:14:14,750 would never hit the leasing market. 208 00:14:17,550 --> 00:14:18,440 Brilliant! 209 00:14:19,030 --> 00:14:20,960 What a spacious and imposing façade! 210 00:14:21,440 --> 00:14:22,080 With a quick fix-up, 211 00:14:22,080 --> 00:14:23,180 we can get up and running in no time. 212 00:14:23,550 --> 00:14:24,270 If I serve up some 213 00:14:24,270 --> 00:14:25,440 authentic mutton noodles here, 214 00:14:25,550 --> 00:14:27,440 we'll easily outstrip Spring House. 215 00:14:27,750 --> 00:14:29,200 I'm sold. I love it. 216 00:14:29,320 --> 00:14:30,030 I'm taking it. 217 00:14:30,750 --> 00:14:32,790 You're a woman of action, Miss Yan! 218 00:14:33,120 --> 00:14:34,960 Let's lock in the deposit, then, so we can 219 00:14:34,960 --> 00:14:36,320 get you a license over at 220 00:14:36,320 --> 00:14:37,150 Lord Ear-Pimp's. 221 00:14:37,600 --> 00:14:38,670 Lord Ear-Pimp? 222 00:14:39,270 --> 00:14:40,630 What's that supposed to mean? 223 00:14:41,910 --> 00:14:43,120 Well, Lord Ear-Pimp oversees 224 00:14:43,360 --> 00:14:45,270 all commercial operations across Jingdu— 225 00:14:45,750 --> 00:14:47,390 from food ingredients 226 00:14:47,790 --> 00:14:48,670 and shop safety 227 00:14:48,790 --> 00:14:50,510 to tax collection. 228 00:14:51,600 --> 00:14:52,670 Speak of the devil. 229 00:14:52,790 --> 00:14:53,510 You're looking 230 00:14:53,510 --> 00:14:54,360 at him right now: 231 00:14:54,360 --> 00:14:55,360 Lord Shen, Lord Ear-Pimp. 232 00:14:56,440 --> 00:14:58,080 Wait, who's that again? 233 00:14:58,600 --> 00:14:59,670 In Jingdu, his name is basically 234 00:14:59,670 --> 00:15:00,550 common knowledge: 235 00:15:00,550 --> 00:15:01,720 Shen Zhishu, 236 00:15:01,720 --> 00:15:02,960 as in young Lord Shen. 237 00:15:03,550 --> 00:15:04,720 To open a joint, Miss Yan, 238 00:15:04,720 --> 00:15:05,390 you'll need to 239 00:15:05,390 --> 00:15:06,150 go to him 240 00:15:06,150 --> 00:15:07,150 for all the paperwork. 241 00:15:07,840 --> 00:15:08,910 If fortune smiles on you, 242 00:15:09,240 --> 00:15:10,870 you might be open in three months. 243 00:15:11,150 --> 00:15:12,510 That's pretty much forever! 244 00:15:12,870 --> 00:15:15,200 We're right under the Emperor's nose, hence red tape. 245 00:15:15,910 --> 00:15:16,750 In this town, 246 00:15:16,790 --> 00:15:18,480 you can't throw a stone without hitting a merchant. 247 00:15:18,910 --> 00:15:20,790 Trade permits are strictly limited. 248 00:15:21,080 --> 00:15:22,670 If you can't get a local official to 249 00:15:22,670 --> 00:15:23,510 put in a good word for you, 250 00:15:23,790 --> 00:15:25,200 waiting a year or more 251 00:15:25,360 --> 00:15:26,630 is totally standard. 252 00:15:28,600 --> 00:15:29,150 If I'd known... 253 00:15:29,150 --> 00:15:30,670 I wouldn't have thrown him out. 254 00:15:31,840 --> 00:15:33,120 Well, good luck next time. 255 00:15:34,200 --> 00:15:35,480 Lord Shen, hello? 256 00:15:37,270 --> 00:15:37,960 Over here. 257 00:15:40,870 --> 00:15:42,200 He actually ignored me! 258 00:15:45,960 --> 00:15:47,000 Lord Shen. 259 00:15:48,480 --> 00:15:49,150 Am I intruding? 260 00:15:49,240 --> 00:15:50,270 Well, Mr. Yu and I agreed on 261 00:15:50,270 --> 00:15:51,440 the reservation a while back. 262 00:15:51,550 --> 00:15:53,600 I didn't expect you to still be here, ladies. 263 00:15:55,200 --> 00:15:57,150 We're here for you, Lord Shen. 264 00:16:05,750 --> 00:16:06,550 Lord Shen. 265 00:16:09,150 --> 00:16:10,320 Come on in and sit with us. 266 00:16:10,670 --> 00:16:12,120 I'm afraid we have to monopolize 267 00:16:12,150 --> 00:16:13,360 Spring House for today. 268 00:16:13,750 --> 00:16:15,240 So you'll have to make do 269 00:16:15,240 --> 00:16:16,270 and join us. 270 00:16:17,270 --> 00:16:18,870 But we've gone to the trouble 271 00:16:18,870 --> 00:16:20,270 of preparing fine wine for you. 272 00:16:20,790 --> 00:16:21,910 This is "Mellow Spring." 273 00:16:23,120 --> 00:16:24,630 Let me pour you a cup first. 274 00:16:24,720 --> 00:16:25,670 Do take a sip. 275 00:16:27,240 --> 00:16:27,960 Much obliged. 276 00:16:28,320 --> 00:16:29,080 Lord Shen, 277 00:16:29,600 --> 00:16:30,270 drink up. 278 00:16:32,790 --> 00:16:33,670 How do you find it? 279 00:16:35,480 --> 00:16:37,630 Let me refill you, Lord Shen. 280 00:16:43,840 --> 00:16:45,840 It's been a while since we last met. 281 00:16:46,000 --> 00:16:47,630 Look at you, how emaciated. 282 00:16:49,320 --> 00:16:51,120 Can you imagine? He was even bonier as a child. 283 00:16:51,390 --> 00:16:52,200 When we were young, 284 00:16:52,200 --> 00:16:52,790 Father insisted 285 00:16:52,790 --> 00:16:54,080 on arranging a betrothal for us. 286 00:16:54,200 --> 00:16:55,600 But I adamantly refused. 287 00:16:55,720 --> 00:16:56,960 Only then did he give up the idea. 288 00:16:57,320 --> 00:16:58,550 Looking back now, 289 00:16:58,630 --> 00:17:00,320 I really regret it. 290 00:17:06,200 --> 00:17:07,600 Speaking of childhood, 291 00:17:07,870 --> 00:17:08,910 one Shangsi Festival, 292 00:17:08,910 --> 00:17:10,720 he helped chase away wasps for me. 293 00:17:11,110 --> 00:17:11,790 Funny how 294 00:17:11,790 --> 00:17:12,680 he got stung and 295 00:17:12,680 --> 00:17:13,590 swelled up like a pufferfish! 296 00:17:14,000 --> 00:17:15,110 That's not remotely hilarious. 297 00:17:15,110 --> 00:17:15,750 When we were little, 298 00:17:15,750 --> 00:17:17,480 he waded into the river to catch fish for me, 299 00:17:17,480 --> 00:17:18,790 but ended up tumbling in 300 00:17:18,790 --> 00:17:20,200 and came out a drowned rat. 301 00:17:24,550 --> 00:17:26,160 Ladies, can we quit this expose-Shen-Zhishu race? 302 00:17:26,270 --> 00:17:27,550 I have matters to attend to. 303 00:17:27,550 --> 00:17:28,400 I'll take my leave now. 304 00:17:29,350 --> 00:17:31,030 You're not leaving. 305 00:17:38,030 --> 00:17:38,960 Zhishu! 306 00:17:39,400 --> 00:17:41,400 You were so sweet on me back in Shazhou. 307 00:17:41,400 --> 00:17:42,440 Where did all those vows go? 308 00:17:42,640 --> 00:17:43,640 Are you going to tell me why 309 00:17:43,640 --> 00:17:45,000 you acted like a stranger in Jingdu? 310 00:17:45,550 --> 00:17:47,720 Oh, I see you've found two new sweethearts. 311 00:17:48,880 --> 00:17:49,790 Who the heck is she? 312 00:17:50,510 --> 00:17:52,160 I'm the one he holds dearest in his heart, 313 00:17:52,240 --> 00:17:53,880 the one he's going to marry with full rites. 314 00:17:54,030 --> 00:17:55,070 So who do you think I am? 315 00:18:07,790 --> 00:18:08,440 My apologies. 316 00:18:09,640 --> 00:18:10,550 My wife has a fiery temper. 317 00:18:10,550 --> 00:18:11,550 Forgive us. 318 00:18:13,000 --> 00:18:13,880 Wife? 319 00:18:22,270 --> 00:18:23,400 You're shameless! 320 00:18:23,830 --> 00:18:24,640 Scoundrel! 321 00:18:25,510 --> 00:18:26,070 You're...! 322 00:18:29,790 --> 00:18:30,640 Just felt like it. 323 00:18:34,960 --> 00:18:35,640 Miss Yan. 324 00:18:35,830 --> 00:18:37,550 Thanks for helping me out of a tight spot. 325 00:18:37,550 --> 00:18:37,960 How about 326 00:18:37,960 --> 00:18:39,440 being a bit more tactful next time, though? 327 00:18:39,680 --> 00:18:40,200 Well, then. 328 00:18:40,270 --> 00:18:40,750 Any 329 00:18:40,750 --> 00:18:41,880 gesture of gratitude? 330 00:18:45,030 --> 00:18:46,440 As the fairy tales go, 331 00:18:46,550 --> 00:18:48,400 a life-saving favor is repaid by marriage. 332 00:18:49,000 --> 00:18:50,310 But let's skip that for us. 333 00:18:50,550 --> 00:18:52,200 You left a permanent scar in me. 334 00:18:53,270 --> 00:18:55,000 Miss Yan, you can just spit it out. 335 00:18:55,480 --> 00:18:57,200 Fine, I'll be direct. 336 00:18:57,720 --> 00:18:59,160 I plan to bring Bofeng House here, 337 00:18:59,160 --> 00:19:00,160 along with my signature, 338 00:19:00,160 --> 00:19:01,720 authentic Shazhou cuisine. 339 00:19:01,720 --> 00:19:02,830 I've already picked a spot. 340 00:19:02,830 --> 00:19:03,640 Right next door. 341 00:19:04,030 --> 00:19:06,550 But I've heard that 342 00:19:06,550 --> 00:19:08,000 getting a trade permit 343 00:19:08,000 --> 00:19:09,440 can take a year or more. 344 00:19:09,830 --> 00:19:12,200 So, Lord Shen, I wonder if you're down 345 00:19:12,200 --> 00:19:12,960 to vouch for me 346 00:19:12,960 --> 00:19:13,920 and expedite the process. 347 00:19:16,400 --> 00:19:17,920 I knew you had an ulterior motive. 348 00:19:18,160 --> 00:19:19,750 Just go through the due procedures. 349 00:19:19,750 --> 00:19:20,590 If you're approved, 350 00:19:20,590 --> 00:19:21,830 someone will notify you. 351 00:19:22,110 --> 00:19:23,440 You will help me. 352 00:19:23,880 --> 00:19:25,160 And if I refuse? 353 00:19:25,440 --> 00:19:25,750 If... 354 00:19:26,830 --> 00:19:28,720 If you refuse, 355 00:19:29,200 --> 00:19:29,960 don't expect me to 356 00:19:29,960 --> 00:19:31,200 speak to you again in Jingdu. 357 00:19:32,510 --> 00:19:33,720 Isn't your way of asking favors 358 00:19:33,720 --> 00:19:34,920 a bit loud indeed? 359 00:19:35,070 --> 00:19:35,920 But I, regretfully, 360 00:19:36,110 --> 00:19:37,310 just don't buy it. 361 00:19:38,920 --> 00:19:39,400 Adieu. 362 00:19:41,640 --> 00:19:42,920 Ten jugs of Shazhou White. 363 00:19:45,480 --> 00:19:47,070 What? I didn't catch that. 364 00:19:49,750 --> 00:19:52,830 Plus five jugs of Shazhou tribute wine. 365 00:19:52,830 --> 00:19:53,400 Plus, 366 00:19:53,400 --> 00:19:55,000 don't push your luck. 367 00:19:59,750 --> 00:20:00,310 I'll need to 368 00:20:00,310 --> 00:20:01,790 see Miss Yan's sincerity first. 369 00:20:01,960 --> 00:20:02,480 How about 370 00:20:02,750 --> 00:20:03,440 an extra home-cook 371 00:20:03,440 --> 00:20:04,680 full Shazhou feast by you? 372 00:20:05,270 --> 00:20:05,960 In your dreams. 373 00:20:09,960 --> 00:20:11,720 Well, I'll just sadly take a sip elsewhere. 374 00:20:15,400 --> 00:20:15,920 Stop right there. 375 00:20:24,720 --> 00:20:26,270 Ten jugs of Shazhou White, 376 00:20:26,510 --> 00:20:28,270 five jugs of tribute wine, 377 00:20:28,270 --> 00:20:29,680 plus a table of my cooking. 378 00:20:29,920 --> 00:20:30,720 Take it or leave it. 379 00:20:33,350 --> 00:20:34,750 You could've budged earlier. 380 00:20:35,790 --> 00:20:36,640 Miss Yan, 381 00:20:36,880 --> 00:20:38,110 next time you want to meet me, 382 00:20:38,110 --> 00:20:39,200 just send a note. 383 00:20:39,400 --> 00:20:40,750 Saves you from the whole 384 00:20:40,830 --> 00:20:42,350 elaborate show. 385 00:20:42,750 --> 00:20:43,110 Bast...! 386 00:20:44,720 --> 00:20:45,640 Watch your attitude. 387 00:20:46,480 --> 00:20:47,590 We're in the imperial city. 388 00:20:52,590 --> 00:20:53,160 Get lost. 389 00:20:53,350 --> 00:20:54,920 Who wants to see you anyway? 390 00:20:56,240 --> 00:20:56,880 What did you say? 391 00:20:57,070 --> 00:20:58,310 I said, 392 00:20:59,350 --> 00:21:01,070 Get the hell out of my sight, now! 393 00:21:47,510 --> 00:21:48,270 Thank you, Teacher. 394 00:21:51,160 --> 00:21:51,790 Uncle. 395 00:21:51,960 --> 00:21:52,750 Long time no see. 396 00:21:54,200 --> 00:21:54,640 Zhili. 397 00:21:55,110 --> 00:21:56,680 Father and Mother prepared a big meal 398 00:21:56,680 --> 00:21:57,750 to celebrate your entry 399 00:21:57,750 --> 00:21:58,540 into the Imperial Academy. 400 00:21:58,920 --> 00:21:59,790 Why are you so late? 401 00:22:01,440 --> 00:22:02,160 Uncle, 402 00:22:02,640 --> 00:22:03,640 thanks for escorting her back. 403 00:22:03,790 --> 00:22:04,960 I'll take it from here. 404 00:22:09,400 --> 00:22:10,960 May you bear in mind the scholarly aspirations. 405 00:22:11,030 --> 00:22:12,020 Your future is vast as the sea. 406 00:22:12,400 --> 00:22:13,640 Your post at the Academy is set. 407 00:22:13,880 --> 00:22:14,550 Remember to 408 00:22:14,720 --> 00:22:15,750 hone your character 409 00:22:15,880 --> 00:22:17,580 till you're as consummate as the halls of jade there. 410 00:22:17,750 --> 00:22:18,070 Here. 411 00:22:19,550 --> 00:22:20,550 Thank you, Teacher. 412 00:22:22,480 --> 00:22:23,830 Uncle, you should head back too. 413 00:22:24,480 --> 00:22:25,830 Aunt must be waiting. 414 00:22:26,200 --> 00:22:27,000 At your leisure, 415 00:22:27,240 --> 00:22:28,920 do pay us a visit. With Aunt. 416 00:22:31,110 --> 00:22:31,590 Go on now. 417 00:22:32,270 --> 00:22:33,110 Your parents are waiting. 418 00:22:33,110 --> 00:22:34,240 He's right. 419 00:22:34,790 --> 00:22:36,240 Don't keep them waiting. 420 00:22:36,680 --> 00:22:37,510 Let's head in, Zhili. 421 00:22:43,550 --> 00:22:44,550 What did you just call me? 422 00:22:44,720 --> 00:22:45,750 Disrespectful. 423 00:22:45,960 --> 00:22:46,680 Call me sis. 424 00:22:47,310 --> 00:22:48,270 Fine, sis. 425 00:22:49,400 --> 00:22:49,880 We've got 426 00:22:49,880 --> 00:22:51,070 all the fine dishes in the world. 427 00:22:51,480 --> 00:22:52,590 The exam took a toll on you. 428 00:22:53,110 --> 00:22:54,880 You'll need to eat a lot to replenish. 429 00:22:58,510 --> 00:22:59,640 The last dish— 430 00:23:00,240 --> 00:23:02,240 sweet and sour ribs, your mother's favorite. 431 00:23:02,350 --> 00:23:03,240 Well, I'll just t... 432 00:23:03,680 --> 00:23:04,400 Take a seat. 433 00:23:04,920 --> 00:23:05,830 Thanks for the meal, Father. 434 00:23:06,350 --> 00:23:06,880 Mom. 435 00:23:07,000 --> 00:23:08,240 We owe you a big one today. 436 00:23:08,310 --> 00:23:09,200 I'm starting to forget 437 00:23:09,200 --> 00:23:10,220 the taste of dad's cooking. 438 00:23:10,590 --> 00:23:11,960 My nice, shiny jawline is getting 439 00:23:11,960 --> 00:23:13,110 sharper from weight loss. 440 00:23:13,160 --> 00:23:14,510 When the tiger's away, 441 00:23:14,510 --> 00:23:15,720 the monkey plays. 442 00:23:16,830 --> 00:23:17,830 Aren't you having 443 00:23:17,830 --> 00:23:19,070 the moment of your life? 444 00:23:19,880 --> 00:23:21,880 I heard His Majesty has made you "Ear-Pimp", 445 00:23:21,880 --> 00:23:23,310 making poetry and leisure your duty. 446 00:23:23,590 --> 00:23:24,400 I can't help but wonder 447 00:23:24,640 --> 00:23:25,270 how many days 448 00:23:25,270 --> 00:23:27,070 you spent pestering him just so you get the post? 449 00:23:28,240 --> 00:23:28,880 Mom! 450 00:23:29,160 --> 00:23:30,070 He's being harsh again. 451 00:23:31,000 --> 00:23:31,550 What I do 452 00:23:31,550 --> 00:23:32,920 is serious, important work. 453 00:23:32,960 --> 00:23:34,000 It's not like I have a say 454 00:23:34,070 --> 00:23:35,300 in what His Majesty has me do. 455 00:23:36,480 --> 00:23:38,350 The other day, you scolded him for whiling away his youth. 456 00:23:38,790 --> 00:23:40,110 Now you're accusing him 457 00:23:40,200 --> 00:23:41,480 of currying favor for a post. 458 00:23:42,000 --> 00:23:42,550 What? 459 00:23:42,750 --> 00:23:44,070 You have to wake up one day 460 00:23:44,070 --> 00:23:45,720 finding your son one of those stuffy pedant, 461 00:23:45,880 --> 00:23:46,920 wearing a stern face all day. 462 00:23:47,070 --> 00:23:48,350 Does that make you happy? 463 00:23:50,590 --> 00:23:51,440 Thanks, mom. 464 00:23:53,000 --> 00:23:54,880 Since His Majesty bestowed the post on him, 465 00:23:54,960 --> 00:23:56,400 his every move's been under scrutiny. 466 00:23:56,720 --> 00:23:58,110 If he misses the wrong move, 467 00:23:58,310 --> 00:23:59,030 it'll be a blade 468 00:23:59,030 --> 00:24:00,440 used against him sooner or later. 469 00:24:01,350 --> 00:24:03,350 Don't get fooled by Brother's casual demeanor. 470 00:24:03,400 --> 00:24:04,400 When it comes to serious matters, 471 00:24:04,400 --> 00:24:05,400 he's no slouch. 472 00:24:05,920 --> 00:24:07,310 His Majesty's well aware of that. 473 00:24:07,310 --> 00:24:08,440 Hence the post. 474 00:24:09,440 --> 00:24:10,350 My sweet, sweet sister. 475 00:24:10,680 --> 00:24:11,400 What a showcase 476 00:24:11,400 --> 00:24:12,550 of sibling love. 477 00:24:13,880 --> 00:24:14,550 Thank you, Father. 478 00:24:16,070 --> 00:24:16,680 Dad, 479 00:24:16,960 --> 00:24:18,440 no one in the court, 480 00:24:18,510 --> 00:24:20,160 except me, your beloved son, 481 00:24:20,160 --> 00:24:21,510 would be cut out for the post. 482 00:24:22,200 --> 00:24:23,510 I'm not going to deny the fact that 483 00:24:23,510 --> 00:24:24,510 I am indulgence incarnate. 484 00:24:24,640 --> 00:24:26,310 But there's a lot more to it than meets the eye. 485 00:24:26,590 --> 00:24:27,350 Arrogant! 486 00:24:30,000 --> 00:24:31,510 Others would kill for a path to high office, 487 00:24:31,510 --> 00:24:32,200 but you— 488 00:24:32,200 --> 00:24:33,350 you're narrowing yours. 489 00:24:33,550 --> 00:24:34,880 You were, to say the least, a Councilor. 490 00:24:34,880 --> 00:24:35,750 And now? 491 00:24:36,110 --> 00:24:36,920 You can't even attend court 492 00:24:36,920 --> 00:24:38,640 without getting permission first. 493 00:24:39,350 --> 00:24:40,310 Will you just look up to Nian? 494 00:24:40,790 --> 00:24:42,590 Growing up, he's been much more sensible than you. 495 00:24:42,590 --> 00:24:44,440 He never worries us, 496 00:24:44,440 --> 00:24:45,960 and is very attentive. 497 00:24:48,000 --> 00:24:48,590 Thank you, Father. 498 00:24:49,400 --> 00:24:49,960 Sis... 499 00:24:49,960 --> 00:24:50,750 Nian, I want that. 500 00:24:52,000 --> 00:24:53,310 With no ambition 501 00:24:53,310 --> 00:24:54,350 and all show, 502 00:24:54,440 --> 00:24:56,070 you're headed for a nasty fall. 503 00:24:57,680 --> 00:24:58,160 Here, Father, 504 00:24:58,350 --> 00:24:59,200 try some of these. 505 00:25:02,310 --> 00:25:03,070 Mother. 506 00:25:04,720 --> 00:25:05,680 You carry none 507 00:25:05,680 --> 00:25:07,400 of my qualities in your blood, 508 00:25:08,920 --> 00:25:10,030 let alone your mother's. 509 00:25:11,070 --> 00:25:12,160 Just watch Nian and learn. 510 00:25:13,030 --> 00:25:14,270 My eyes, nose, mouth— 511 00:25:14,270 --> 00:25:15,200 I'm a chip off your block. 512 00:25:15,440 --> 00:25:16,550 "Nian", "Nian", "Nian". 513 00:25:16,880 --> 00:25:17,240 Is 514 00:25:17,240 --> 00:25:18,720 Nian your son by blood, or I am? 515 00:25:18,720 --> 00:25:19,790 If it were possible, 516 00:25:19,960 --> 00:25:21,270 of course I'd wish Nian 517 00:25:21,270 --> 00:25:22,160 were my son by blood. 518 00:25:23,510 --> 00:25:24,790 His Di family is full of loyal heroes. 519 00:25:25,240 --> 00:25:26,240 At only 18, Nian undertook 520 00:25:26,240 --> 00:25:27,480 to patrol the borders for His Majesty. 521 00:25:27,480 --> 00:25:27,920 And you? 522 00:25:28,240 --> 00:25:29,640 All you do is take His Majesty 523 00:25:29,640 --> 00:25:30,680 out hunting and hawking. 524 00:25:30,680 --> 00:25:32,070 What kind of minister is that? 525 00:25:32,270 --> 00:25:33,750 You should visit the palace less often. 526 00:25:34,240 --> 00:25:34,920 His Majesty 527 00:25:34,920 --> 00:25:36,110 ought to be accompanied by 528 00:25:36,110 --> 00:25:37,580 loyal and upright ministers like Nian. 529 00:25:37,790 --> 00:25:39,000 But I did all that for his sake! 530 00:25:39,000 --> 00:25:39,960 Alright, Zhishu, 531 00:25:40,160 --> 00:25:41,200 enough. 532 00:25:44,440 --> 00:25:45,920 Well, His Majesty can't do without me. 533 00:25:46,550 --> 00:25:47,550 If I stop visiting him, 534 00:25:47,680 --> 00:25:48,510 within three days, 535 00:25:48,590 --> 00:25:49,960 His Majesty will come looking for me. 536 00:25:51,110 --> 00:25:51,750 You all hear that? 537 00:25:51,750 --> 00:25:53,200 What nonsense is he spouting? 538 00:25:53,400 --> 00:25:54,110 As if His Majesty 539 00:25:54,110 --> 00:25:55,160 can't hold court without you! 540 00:25:56,680 --> 00:25:57,750 Nian, dig in. 541 00:25:57,750 --> 00:25:58,640 You're elder in age 542 00:25:58,640 --> 00:26:00,400 than Zhili and Nian. 543 00:26:00,750 --> 00:26:01,240 How come 544 00:26:01,240 --> 00:26:02,400 you give us the most grief? 545 00:26:03,030 --> 00:26:03,590 People out there 546 00:26:03,590 --> 00:26:05,000 would take you for the baby. 547 00:26:05,640 --> 00:26:06,550 Because I'm good-looking? 548 00:26:10,830 --> 00:26:12,260 Because you've got nothing upstairs. 549 00:26:12,680 --> 00:26:14,240 Father, Mother, 550 00:26:14,590 --> 00:26:15,790 aren't we supposed to be celebrating? 551 00:26:15,790 --> 00:26:17,350 Sis came second in the Palace Exam, 552 00:26:17,880 --> 00:26:19,070 and got her dream post 553 00:26:19,070 --> 00:26:20,310 at the Imperial Academy. 554 00:26:20,790 --> 00:26:21,350 I've got 555 00:26:21,350 --> 00:26:22,310 a gift for you. 556 00:26:22,440 --> 00:26:23,000 Oh, right! 557 00:26:23,200 --> 00:26:24,550 How can we forget the main event? 558 00:26:24,680 --> 00:26:25,240 Zhili, 559 00:26:25,240 --> 00:26:26,860 your father and I have something for you too. 560 00:26:34,270 --> 00:26:35,160 Thanks, Nian. 561 00:26:35,790 --> 00:26:37,350 My gloves were just wearing out. 562 00:26:37,960 --> 00:26:39,200 You're the sweetest, Nian. 563 00:26:40,270 --> 00:26:41,880 Zhili, take a look at this. 564 00:26:43,310 --> 00:26:44,790 This four-treasure set was handmade 565 00:26:44,790 --> 00:26:46,920 by your father himself back in his academy days. 566 00:26:47,510 --> 00:26:48,550 This inkstone was carved 567 00:26:48,720 --> 00:26:50,400 from the Blue Mountain slate given as a 568 00:26:50,400 --> 00:26:51,550 royal favor from the late emperor 569 00:26:51,550 --> 00:26:52,680 when I earned triple firsts. 570 00:26:53,270 --> 00:26:54,270 It stays cool in summer and warm in winter, 571 00:26:54,270 --> 00:26:55,750 keeping the ink from drying out. 572 00:26:56,480 --> 00:26:58,110 Thank you, Father. Thank you, Mother. 573 00:26:58,110 --> 00:26:59,110 When I started my career, 574 00:26:59,440 --> 00:26:59,830 why 575 00:26:59,830 --> 00:27:00,920 didn't anyone give me a gift? 576 00:27:01,070 --> 00:27:01,920 What would you have wanted? 577 00:27:02,550 --> 00:27:04,270 Gambling chips made from Kingwood? 578 00:27:04,400 --> 00:27:05,750 or jade-carved dices? 579 00:27:07,160 --> 00:27:08,680 Or maybe buy back a few 580 00:27:09,000 --> 00:27:10,030 of your lady friends? 581 00:27:12,110 --> 00:27:12,680 Dad, 582 00:27:12,920 --> 00:27:14,480 am I really your own son? 583 00:27:14,960 --> 00:27:16,160 Why are you always picking on me? 584 00:27:16,310 --> 00:27:17,270 If you seriously think 585 00:27:17,480 --> 00:27:19,000 I've disgraced our family, 586 00:27:19,000 --> 00:27:19,750 I'll leave now. 587 00:27:22,270 --> 00:27:23,070 Brother... 588 00:27:24,640 --> 00:27:26,000 It's fine. I'm done. 589 00:27:32,200 --> 00:27:33,030 Shen Wuchen. 590 00:27:33,640 --> 00:27:34,960 Do you have to be so cruel 591 00:27:34,960 --> 00:27:35,920 to be kind? 592 00:27:36,400 --> 00:27:37,790 You hate to see him hurt, 593 00:27:37,920 --> 00:27:38,550 yet it is 594 00:27:38,550 --> 00:27:40,000 your words that cut him to the bone. 595 00:27:40,640 --> 00:27:41,550 Zhishu has done 596 00:27:41,550 --> 00:27:43,070 more than enough all these years. 597 00:27:45,400 --> 00:27:46,550 His Majesty has always 598 00:27:46,830 --> 00:27:48,550 seen Zhishu as a bosom friend and would 599 00:27:49,030 --> 00:27:50,310 trust him on everything. 600 00:27:51,030 --> 00:27:52,750 So the court can't even afford an infinitesimal 601 00:27:52,750 --> 00:27:53,830 misstep from Zhishu. 602 00:27:55,350 --> 00:27:56,880 The censors' pens 603 00:27:57,720 --> 00:27:59,680 cut sharper than any sword. 604 00:28:03,640 --> 00:28:05,070 Does that necessarily mean 605 00:28:06,440 --> 00:28:08,270 his father should turn that edge on him first? 606 00:28:10,750 --> 00:28:11,750 Just see for yourself. 607 00:28:12,160 --> 00:28:13,440 He never gets enough 608 00:28:13,440 --> 00:28:14,680 of the soup you made. 609 00:28:15,350 --> 00:28:16,400 But he didn't even touch it today. 610 00:28:40,790 --> 00:28:41,790 The appointment notice 611 00:28:41,790 --> 00:28:42,830 hasn't come yet. 612 00:28:44,640 --> 00:28:45,110 No idea 613 00:28:45,110 --> 00:28:46,440 how much longer we'll have to wait. 614 00:28:47,590 --> 00:28:48,240 Tinghui, 615 00:28:48,480 --> 00:28:50,240 maybe our posts are so great 616 00:28:50,240 --> 00:28:51,550 that those old fogies need 617 00:28:51,550 --> 00:28:52,680 extra time to deliberate. 618 00:28:53,640 --> 00:28:54,310 Miss Meng, 619 00:28:54,310 --> 00:28:55,590 the Ministry just sent a note. 620 00:28:55,590 --> 00:28:56,590 On my way! 621 00:28:59,880 --> 00:29:00,510 Thanks. 622 00:29:02,440 --> 00:29:03,270 Hurry up! 623 00:29:04,270 --> 00:29:05,480 Let's see which cushy job it is. 624 00:29:15,270 --> 00:29:16,270 "Return home and await orders". 625 00:29:16,960 --> 00:29:18,000 That can't be. 626 00:29:18,350 --> 00:29:19,920 I made inquiries today. 627 00:29:20,400 --> 00:29:21,160 All the other 628 00:29:21,160 --> 00:29:22,270 female officials have 629 00:29:22,270 --> 00:29:23,440 already left for their posts. 630 00:29:23,830 --> 00:29:24,830 Both Shen Zhili 631 00:29:24,880 --> 00:29:26,200 and Zuo Qiurong 632 00:29:26,200 --> 00:29:26,680 are placed 633 00:29:26,680 --> 00:29:27,960 at the Imperial Academy. 634 00:29:28,160 --> 00:29:29,510 Everyone has a post now, 635 00:29:30,590 --> 00:29:32,200 except I'm sent back home. 636 00:29:33,510 --> 00:29:34,350 It seems someone 637 00:29:34,350 --> 00:29:35,880 is dead set on killing my career. 638 00:29:37,550 --> 00:29:38,270 Tinghui, 639 00:29:38,640 --> 00:29:40,440 you're personally chosen by His Majesty. 640 00:29:40,510 --> 00:29:41,550 Who'd have the nerve 641 00:29:41,550 --> 00:29:42,830 to block your appointment? 642 00:29:43,200 --> 00:29:44,350 Who else but 643 00:29:46,070 --> 00:29:47,200 Chancellor Xu? 644 00:29:49,030 --> 00:29:49,590 Fuzhi, 645 00:29:51,030 --> 00:29:52,240 I can't just sit here and take it. 646 00:29:53,200 --> 00:29:54,480 I need to find a way before dawn 647 00:29:54,480 --> 00:29:55,640 to see His Majesty. 648 00:29:56,110 --> 00:29:57,440 We'll figure it out together. 649 00:29:58,160 --> 00:29:58,920 I've got money, 650 00:29:58,920 --> 00:29:59,720 and you've got wit. 651 00:29:59,830 --> 00:30:01,310 Nothing can stop us. 652 00:30:04,830 --> 00:30:05,590 Miss Meng, 653 00:30:06,200 --> 00:30:07,550 Chancellor Xu requests your presence. 654 00:30:09,070 --> 00:30:09,790 Of all hours, 655 00:30:10,000 --> 00:30:11,880 he has to send for you in the dead of night? 656 00:30:12,110 --> 00:30:13,240 He's up to no good, I bet. 657 00:30:13,240 --> 00:30:14,720 He probably wants you silenced for good. 658 00:30:14,920 --> 00:30:16,350 They've already got us surrounded. 659 00:30:17,590 --> 00:30:19,200 There's no way out. 660 00:30:20,350 --> 00:30:21,070 This time, 661 00:30:22,030 --> 00:30:23,070 I have to go. 662 00:30:33,270 --> 00:30:34,680 My dear ministers, here, 663 00:30:35,000 --> 00:30:36,680 drink another cup with me. 664 00:30:37,240 --> 00:30:38,720 Thank you, Your Majesty. 665 00:30:43,200 --> 00:30:45,750 Presenting the newly minted Top Scholar, Meng Tinghui. 666 00:31:05,960 --> 00:31:08,200 Your subject Meng Tinghui 667 00:31:08,510 --> 00:31:09,720 greets Your Majesty. 668 00:31:10,110 --> 00:31:12,110 May Your Majesty enjoy eternal blessings. 669 00:31:24,200 --> 00:31:26,480 I summoned you tonight under the name 670 00:31:26,480 --> 00:31:27,440 of Chancellor Xu 671 00:31:27,440 --> 00:31:29,510 to see if your guts live up to your ambition. 672 00:31:30,030 --> 00:31:31,960 And you show up alone. 673 00:31:32,070 --> 00:31:32,680 I'm impressed. 674 00:31:34,030 --> 00:31:35,240 You're astute and dauntless. 675 00:31:36,000 --> 00:31:37,480 Offer our Top Scholar a seat. 676 00:31:41,440 --> 00:31:42,270 Thank you, Your Majesty. 677 00:31:46,960 --> 00:31:47,880 Meng Tinghui, 678 00:31:48,510 --> 00:31:50,070 your triple firsts 679 00:31:50,720 --> 00:31:52,790 have made me proud. 680 00:31:54,440 --> 00:31:56,720 The pleasure is beyond words. 681 00:31:56,920 --> 00:31:58,400 I owe this chance all to 682 00:31:58,960 --> 00:32:00,160 Your Majesty's blessings. 683 00:32:00,350 --> 00:32:01,920 I will prove worthy of your favor 684 00:32:02,160 --> 00:32:03,310 by doing my part. 685 00:32:03,750 --> 00:32:04,790 Everyone, 686 00:32:06,400 --> 00:32:08,720 let's all raise a glass to Meng Tinghui. 687 00:32:08,720 --> 00:32:10,550 To Top Scholar! 688 00:32:13,000 --> 00:32:15,110 I'm in such high spirits today. 689 00:32:15,200 --> 00:32:17,240 And I have a big announcement to make. 690 00:32:17,510 --> 00:32:19,550 Announcing Chancellor Xu! 691 00:32:35,440 --> 00:32:36,270 Your Majesty. 692 00:32:37,000 --> 00:32:38,640 Should you hope to summon Meng Tinghui 693 00:32:38,640 --> 00:32:40,110 under this old minister's name, 694 00:32:40,480 --> 00:32:41,790 you might want to let me know 695 00:32:41,790 --> 00:32:43,680 beforehand next time. 696 00:32:45,960 --> 00:32:48,400 And you've been drinking? 697 00:32:52,830 --> 00:32:54,270 Oh, hello, Chancellor Xu. 698 00:32:54,640 --> 00:32:57,030 The women's exam just concluded. 699 00:32:57,030 --> 00:32:57,960 I'm very delighted. 700 00:32:57,960 --> 00:33:00,200 I just feel like throwing a banquet for everyone. 701 00:33:00,200 --> 00:33:01,160 Chancellor Xu, 702 00:33:02,110 --> 00:33:03,070 come here. I'll top you up. 703 00:33:03,070 --> 00:33:03,680 Your Majesty, 704 00:33:03,920 --> 00:33:05,200 I have served three reigns, 705 00:33:05,750 --> 00:33:07,270 yet I have never seen an emperor 706 00:33:07,270 --> 00:33:09,640 conduct himself so poorly before his courtiers. 707 00:33:11,480 --> 00:33:12,400 Meng Tinghui. 708 00:33:12,640 --> 00:33:13,640 The appointment notice 709 00:33:13,640 --> 00:33:15,640 never reached you, did it? 710 00:33:15,640 --> 00:33:18,960 This banquet is for officials of the sixth rank and above. 711 00:33:19,270 --> 00:33:20,720 You don't belong here. 712 00:33:21,110 --> 00:33:21,720 Chancellor, 713 00:33:21,720 --> 00:33:23,270 if you'd still trouble yourself with me 714 00:33:23,590 --> 00:33:25,030 for all my insignificance. 715 00:33:26,000 --> 00:33:27,200 Am I right to assume that 716 00:33:27,310 --> 00:33:29,240 it was also your idea 717 00:33:29,590 --> 00:33:31,640 to send me back home? 718 00:33:31,750 --> 00:33:32,440 Hold on. 719 00:33:34,590 --> 00:33:35,830 Send her back? 720 00:33:36,160 --> 00:33:37,510 I personally elevated 721 00:33:37,510 --> 00:33:39,160 a female Top Scholar with triple firsts, 722 00:33:39,160 --> 00:33:40,440 whom I hold in high regard. 723 00:33:40,510 --> 00:33:41,480 How did she end up 724 00:33:41,880 --> 00:33:43,590 with nowhere to go? 725 00:33:43,590 --> 00:33:44,550 Chancellor, 726 00:33:44,920 --> 00:33:46,160 care to explain? 727 00:33:46,880 --> 00:33:48,160 If I may, Your Majesty. 728 00:33:49,480 --> 00:33:50,830 There are no vacancies right now 729 00:33:51,110 --> 00:33:52,160 across all Six Ministries. 730 00:33:52,400 --> 00:33:53,680 Wouldn't her genius be squandered 731 00:33:54,070 --> 00:33:55,590 on a minor post? 732 00:33:56,270 --> 00:33:56,880 Huo An, 733 00:33:57,030 --> 00:33:57,680 step forward. 734 00:33:58,350 --> 00:34:00,000 Escort Miss Meng back to Shazhou. 735 00:34:00,110 --> 00:34:01,160 Pending further orders. 736 00:34:01,590 --> 00:34:02,590 Since the Six Ministries 737 00:34:02,590 --> 00:34:03,960 can't make room for her. 738 00:34:03,960 --> 00:34:05,680 Get her in the Censorate. 739 00:34:08,590 --> 00:34:10,480 The Black Tiger Gang in Shazhou, 740 00:34:10,480 --> 00:34:12,200 the Tiger Roar Gang in Jingdu, 741 00:34:12,200 --> 00:34:13,750 Ding Chong who aids the wicked, 742 00:34:13,750 --> 00:34:15,030 and that swindler 743 00:34:15,030 --> 00:34:16,230 Dong Shoucai— 744 00:34:16,230 --> 00:34:17,190 How many more of them 745 00:34:17,190 --> 00:34:18,740 are still running rampant across this land? 746 00:34:19,800 --> 00:34:20,590 And you lot 747 00:34:21,440 --> 00:34:22,760 are sitting idly by 748 00:34:23,190 --> 00:34:24,760 as the snakes and vipers are slithering 749 00:34:24,760 --> 00:34:26,030 right under your nose! 750 00:34:26,360 --> 00:34:28,000 What else can I do but set up 751 00:34:28,000 --> 00:34:29,030 a Censorate 752 00:34:29,320 --> 00:34:31,550 to uproot injustice across the realm? 753 00:34:31,550 --> 00:34:32,760 Your Majesty, I'm afraid 754 00:34:32,760 --> 00:34:34,670 you fail to do us justice. 755 00:34:35,000 --> 00:34:36,110 And is it any wiser to set up 756 00:34:36,440 --> 00:34:37,360 a new office staffed by 757 00:34:37,360 --> 00:34:39,070 inexperienced novices? 758 00:34:39,110 --> 00:34:40,800 Tell me, then, what's behind 759 00:34:41,920 --> 00:34:43,320 your eagerness 760 00:34:43,320 --> 00:34:45,710 to banish the talent of my choice from Jingdu? 761 00:34:45,920 --> 00:34:48,360 What is it that you're after? 762 00:34:50,320 --> 00:34:51,030 Your Majesty, 763 00:34:51,920 --> 00:34:53,710 creating a new office is no small matter. 764 00:34:53,920 --> 00:34:55,030 If we rush the decision, 765 00:34:55,030 --> 00:34:56,920 it could cause turmoil in the court. 766 00:34:56,920 --> 00:34:58,440 My decision is final. 767 00:34:59,190 --> 00:35:00,510 From today onward, 768 00:35:01,840 --> 00:35:04,670 Meng Tinghui is appointed Chief of the Censorate, 769 00:35:04,760 --> 00:35:06,710 operating outside the Chancellors and Ministries. 770 00:35:07,030 --> 00:35:08,630 She reports directly to me. 771 00:35:17,360 --> 00:35:18,230 It shall be done. 772 00:35:18,630 --> 00:35:19,920 Thank you, Your Majesty. 773 00:35:20,110 --> 00:35:21,190 If we're assembling a unit, 774 00:35:21,880 --> 00:35:24,000 we need some fresh blood to make it lively. 775 00:35:24,480 --> 00:35:26,840 Shen Zhili, finishing second in the exam, 776 00:35:26,840 --> 00:35:28,070 spends all her days 777 00:35:28,070 --> 00:35:30,110 in the middle of deadwood—how dull is that? 778 00:35:30,280 --> 00:35:31,280 Effective immediately, 779 00:35:31,800 --> 00:35:33,280 she is transferred to the Censorate 780 00:35:33,670 --> 00:35:36,110 to assist Meng Tinghui. 781 00:35:37,710 --> 00:35:38,550 Your Majesty. 782 00:35:38,550 --> 00:35:39,230 Your Majesty, 783 00:35:40,190 --> 00:35:42,150 it is most improper to entrust 784 00:35:42,150 --> 00:35:43,190 such duties on two girls. 785 00:35:43,840 --> 00:35:45,800 You're throwing the court into chaos! 786 00:35:46,110 --> 00:35:46,880 I... 787 00:35:48,030 --> 00:35:51,000 I insist that you revoke this decree. 788 00:35:53,030 --> 00:35:55,030 Your Majesty! Your Majesty! 789 00:35:59,030 --> 00:36:01,760 Chancellor, this Dragon-head Staff of yours 790 00:36:02,550 --> 00:36:04,590 might overshadow the seals of the Six Ministries. 791 00:36:04,590 --> 00:36:07,070 Now, are you taking on the imperial seal, too? 792 00:36:07,590 --> 00:36:09,320 You abuse your seniority 793 00:36:09,360 --> 00:36:10,960 and repeatedly 794 00:36:10,960 --> 00:36:11,710 defy my will. 795 00:36:11,710 --> 00:36:12,840 Do you think 796 00:36:14,630 --> 00:36:16,710 you're beyond my reach? 797 00:36:18,070 --> 00:36:19,000 Your Majesty, 798 00:36:20,880 --> 00:36:22,960 do you have an idea what you're doing? 799 00:36:31,070 --> 00:36:33,320 I was only bantering 800 00:36:33,320 --> 00:36:34,710 with Chancellor Xu. 801 00:36:36,760 --> 00:36:37,710 Hey. 802 00:36:39,150 --> 00:36:40,510 You all didn't actually think 803 00:36:40,510 --> 00:36:42,280 I was going to hurt him, did you? 804 00:36:42,280 --> 00:36:45,110 Chancellor Xu is one of the 805 00:36:45,480 --> 00:36:47,320 pillars of the realm of Great Ning. 806 00:36:48,550 --> 00:36:49,230 Everyone, 807 00:36:50,280 --> 00:36:53,150 let's drink a toast with Chancellor Xu. 808 00:36:53,630 --> 00:36:54,920 Your Majesty, you're drunk. 809 00:36:55,360 --> 00:36:56,230 Your Majesty... 810 00:36:56,760 --> 00:36:57,480 Your Majesty! 811 00:36:57,480 --> 00:36:58,190 Watch out! 812 00:36:58,800 --> 00:36:59,510 Your Majesty! 813 00:37:00,150 --> 00:37:01,800 Keep drinking with him for me. 814 00:37:04,550 --> 00:37:06,070 His Majesty never drinks. 815 00:37:06,880 --> 00:37:08,400 How did he get so drunk today? 816 00:37:09,150 --> 00:37:11,280 A Top Scholar entering court? 817 00:37:15,510 --> 00:37:18,070 More like a trouble brewing! 818 00:37:32,800 --> 00:37:33,440 Your Majesty, 819 00:37:33,800 --> 00:37:34,400 careful. 820 00:37:48,590 --> 00:37:49,320 Your Majesty, 821 00:37:49,840 --> 00:37:50,840 it's very late. 822 00:37:51,150 --> 00:37:52,550 Will Miss Meng still be here? 823 00:38:13,480 --> 00:38:14,280 Commander Huang, 824 00:38:14,440 --> 00:38:15,630 can I see His Majesty? 825 00:38:23,230 --> 00:38:24,280 Thanks for the trouble. 826 00:38:55,760 --> 00:38:56,670 The banquet is over. 827 00:38:56,670 --> 00:38:58,070 Why are you still here? 828 00:39:02,800 --> 00:39:04,110 Your Majesty summoned me. 829 00:39:04,630 --> 00:39:06,150 When did I ever summon you? 830 00:39:06,550 --> 00:39:08,070 If Your Majesty didn't, 831 00:39:08,590 --> 00:39:09,710 I'll take my leave. 832 00:39:15,670 --> 00:39:17,840 Why don't you bow when you see me? 833 00:39:23,150 --> 00:39:26,400 Your subject Meng Tinghui greets Your Majesty. 834 00:39:27,190 --> 00:39:28,590 I was worried 835 00:39:29,030 --> 00:39:30,920 that appointing you Chief of the Censorate 836 00:39:30,920 --> 00:39:32,000 was too bold a move. 837 00:39:32,920 --> 00:39:33,880 Now you've convinced me 838 00:39:33,880 --> 00:39:35,400 that was more than just a whim. 839 00:39:35,710 --> 00:39:37,400 If that's the case, 840 00:39:38,630 --> 00:39:40,150 you wouldn't have feigned 841 00:39:40,630 --> 00:39:41,800 drunkenness tonight, 842 00:39:41,880 --> 00:39:43,510 just to promote me. 843 00:39:43,760 --> 00:39:44,510 Isn't this 844 00:39:44,510 --> 00:39:46,110 Censorate position 845 00:39:46,150 --> 00:39:46,840 everything 846 00:39:46,840 --> 00:39:48,110 you've been cozying up to me for? 847 00:39:48,360 --> 00:39:49,670 I gave you what you wanted. 848 00:39:49,840 --> 00:39:51,440 But the royal favor is ever fickle. 849 00:39:51,800 --> 00:39:53,440 You just rejected me the other day, 850 00:39:54,030 --> 00:39:54,920 yet tonight, 851 00:39:54,920 --> 00:39:56,280 you promoted me openly, despite 852 00:39:56,480 --> 00:39:57,760 the Chancellor's opposition. 853 00:39:58,030 --> 00:40:00,030 I can't read your mind, 854 00:40:00,800 --> 00:40:01,760 and that unsettles me. 855 00:40:04,440 --> 00:40:06,800 I've granted you power beyond the Chancellors. 856 00:40:07,190 --> 00:40:08,480 What more could you want? 857 00:40:08,800 --> 00:40:11,000 Or do you have other intentions? 858 00:40:16,800 --> 00:40:18,880 Your favor seems a blessing at first sight, 859 00:40:20,110 --> 00:40:21,110 but isn't it also 860 00:40:21,110 --> 00:40:23,190 putting a target on my back? 861 00:40:23,440 --> 00:40:24,590 If you insist that I 862 00:40:24,590 --> 00:40:25,710 repay you somehow, 863 00:40:26,480 --> 00:40:28,110 I am willing to risk my life 864 00:40:28,840 --> 00:40:31,360 to fully investigate the Tiger Roar Gang case. 865 00:40:32,110 --> 00:40:33,840 I ordered an investigation into the gang, 866 00:40:34,000 --> 00:40:35,000 but to this day, 867 00:40:35,000 --> 00:40:36,150 there is still no lead. 868 00:40:36,550 --> 00:40:38,000 No just any street gang 869 00:40:38,000 --> 00:40:39,670 gets to be all-powerful. 870 00:40:40,190 --> 00:40:41,400 Are you suspecting that 871 00:40:41,400 --> 00:40:42,590 they have connections in the c... 872 00:40:42,590 --> 00:40:44,230 Don't jump to conclusion until you have proof. 873 00:40:48,440 --> 00:40:49,960 Surprise me with your findings. 874 00:40:52,840 --> 00:40:54,710 I am willing to be your blade. 875 00:40:55,030 --> 00:40:55,710 But it's hard now 876 00:40:55,710 --> 00:40:57,000 to tell friend from foe in the court. 877 00:40:57,230 --> 00:40:58,360 I hope to select 878 00:40:58,360 --> 00:40:59,590 the Censorate's members myself. 879 00:40:59,590 --> 00:41:00,550 Only if 880 00:41:00,760 --> 00:41:02,110 Zhishu and Di Nian 881 00:41:02,230 --> 00:41:03,510 are included. 882 00:41:04,400 --> 00:41:05,190 Of course. 883 00:41:05,710 --> 00:41:06,880 Thanks, Your Majesty. 884 00:41:27,590 --> 00:41:28,150 Over there. 885 00:41:37,550 --> 00:41:38,110 We're here. 886 00:41:44,190 --> 00:41:45,360 Keep digging! 887 00:41:45,840 --> 00:41:46,550 Got it.