1 00:01:27,000 --> 00:01:31,220 The Scholar and the Emperor 2 00:02:25,120 --> 00:02:27,580 -Hurry up. -Easy! My leg! 3 00:02:31,920 --> 00:02:34,096 Chief, while I was following Meng Tinghui, 4 00:02:34,120 --> 00:02:35,860 I found this cripple following her too. 5 00:02:36,120 --> 00:02:37,496 He was the gatekeeper at our gambling house. 6 00:02:37,520 --> 00:02:39,736 The last time Meng Tinghui went there, 7 00:02:39,760 --> 00:02:40,776 he was the one who spotted her. 8 00:02:40,800 --> 00:02:42,100 He told me 9 00:02:42,360 --> 00:02:44,180 he has a way to bring Meng Tinghui down. 10 00:02:45,440 --> 00:02:46,700 Who exactly are you? 11 00:02:47,280 --> 00:02:48,540 Chief. 12 00:02:49,160 --> 00:02:51,136 I am Meng Tinghui's enemy. 13 00:02:51,160 --> 00:02:53,580 I knew that girl ten years ago. 14 00:02:53,840 --> 00:02:56,496 She is the one who ruined my leg. 15 00:02:56,520 --> 00:02:58,096 Because of Meng Tinghui, 16 00:02:58,120 --> 00:03:00,816 I became a cripple despised by everyone. 17 00:03:00,840 --> 00:03:02,136 I had to change my name 18 00:03:02,160 --> 00:03:03,896 and flee my homeland. 19 00:03:03,920 --> 00:03:05,976 For ten years, I have not slept a peaceful night. 20 00:03:06,000 --> 00:03:09,140 I long to devour her flesh and drink her blood, Chief. 21 00:03:09,600 --> 00:03:10,896 My hatred for that wretch 22 00:03:10,920 --> 00:03:12,096 is no less than yours. 23 00:03:12,120 --> 00:03:14,296 I want to join the Tiger Roar Gang. 24 00:03:14,320 --> 00:03:15,820 Become my protector, 25 00:03:16,320 --> 00:03:17,980 and I will help you eliminate her. 26 00:03:20,640 --> 00:03:22,056 I investigated him. 27 00:03:22,080 --> 00:03:24,420 Ten years ago, he was indeed in Shazhou, 28 00:03:24,880 --> 00:03:26,540 trafficking children. 29 00:03:40,960 --> 00:03:42,936 A man who even dared sell children 30 00:03:42,960 --> 00:03:44,736 thinks he can bargain with me? 31 00:03:44,760 --> 00:03:46,576 Spare me, Chief! 32 00:03:46,600 --> 00:03:49,296 I truly lost my senses back then. 33 00:03:49,320 --> 00:03:50,616 I deserve to die. 34 00:03:50,640 --> 00:03:51,980 But Chief, 35 00:03:53,000 --> 00:03:54,896 Meng Tinghui's dearest sister 36 00:03:54,920 --> 00:03:57,456 died by my hand. 37 00:03:57,480 --> 00:03:59,860 I know what she fears and hates. 38 00:04:00,120 --> 00:04:01,376 With me, 39 00:04:01,400 --> 00:04:04,700 you can bring her down. Please give me a chance. 40 00:04:05,800 --> 00:04:06,940 All right. 41 00:04:07,920 --> 00:04:10,380 I will let you try. 42 00:04:11,640 --> 00:04:14,256 Remember, you are merely a cripple 43 00:04:14,280 --> 00:04:16,376 driven mad by his thirst for revenge. 44 00:04:16,400 --> 00:04:18,220 You have absolutely nothing 45 00:04:18,600 --> 00:04:21,940 -to do with the Tiger Roar Gang. -Thank you, Chief. 46 00:04:36,080 --> 00:04:37,496 Wait. 47 00:04:37,520 --> 00:04:39,456 Do not add salt until the meat turns golden. 48 00:04:39,480 --> 00:04:40,900 Miss Yan, 49 00:04:41,080 --> 00:04:43,936 this is the authentic Beijian method. 50 00:04:43,960 --> 00:04:44,896 You... 51 00:04:44,920 --> 00:04:46,980 Would you know better than someone from Shazhou? 52 00:04:47,280 --> 00:04:48,820 Mengmeng, you be the judge. 53 00:04:52,000 --> 00:04:52,896 Mengmeng. 54 00:04:52,920 --> 00:04:54,700 Why are you so distracted? 55 00:04:55,840 --> 00:04:56,980 Nothing. 56 00:04:57,400 --> 00:04:58,856 I may have been overworked lately 57 00:04:58,880 --> 00:05:00,256 and unable to settle my mind. 58 00:05:00,280 --> 00:05:02,176 Then relax properly today. 59 00:05:02,200 --> 00:05:04,576 Young Lord Shen has spared no expense 60 00:05:04,600 --> 00:05:06,216 on this grand banquet to celebrate your success. 61 00:05:06,240 --> 00:05:08,180 He chose to hold the feast here. 62 00:05:08,480 --> 00:05:10,220 I suspect the wine is not his true concern. 63 00:05:11,000 --> 00:05:12,576 There are so many restaurants on Changle Street, 64 00:05:12,600 --> 00:05:14,136 yet he chose your Bofeng House. 65 00:05:14,160 --> 00:05:16,660 His intentions are hardly insignificant. 66 00:05:17,760 --> 00:05:19,496 That is because I have the finest view 67 00:05:19,520 --> 00:05:21,176 and the best roasted meat. 68 00:05:21,200 --> 00:05:22,376 As for Shen Zhishu, 69 00:05:22,400 --> 00:05:23,496 apart from that face, 70 00:05:23,520 --> 00:05:24,696 what else does he have to offer? 71 00:05:24,720 --> 00:05:26,696 He spends all day flirting with women. 72 00:05:26,720 --> 00:05:28,220 He is clearly unreliable. 73 00:05:28,680 --> 00:05:29,896 Last time... 74 00:05:29,920 --> 00:05:32,296 Last time, I even saw him at Huiyin House. 75 00:05:32,320 --> 00:05:33,816 You even remember which butterfly he was chasing 76 00:05:33,840 --> 00:05:34,736 that time so clearly. 77 00:05:34,760 --> 00:05:36,140 You... 78 00:05:36,880 --> 00:05:38,336 I merely felt 79 00:05:38,360 --> 00:05:39,816 sorry for the ladies of the capital. 80 00:05:39,840 --> 00:05:40,736 Shopkeeper Yan, 81 00:05:40,760 --> 00:05:42,656 you must answer for speaking behind someone's back. 82 00:05:42,680 --> 00:05:43,696 You clearly just said 83 00:05:43,720 --> 00:05:44,896 that my face was worth looking at. 84 00:05:44,920 --> 00:05:46,496 Young Lord Shen is here. 85 00:05:46,520 --> 00:05:47,896 Greetings, Your Majesty. 86 00:05:47,920 --> 00:05:49,216 Your Majesty! 87 00:05:49,240 --> 00:05:51,576 No need for ceremony. I brought some fine wine today 88 00:05:51,600 --> 00:05:53,296 to celebrate with everyone. 89 00:05:53,320 --> 00:05:54,540 Rise. 90 00:05:56,920 --> 00:05:58,896 I do not know what is wrong with my legs. 91 00:05:58,920 --> 00:06:00,616 Whenever I see His Majesty, they stop obeying me 92 00:06:00,640 --> 00:06:01,816 and want to kneel and kowtow again and again. 93 00:06:01,840 --> 00:06:04,016 Shen Zhishu, why did you not tell me His Majesty was coming? 94 00:06:04,040 --> 00:06:06,016 Although I invited everyone today, 95 00:06:06,040 --> 00:06:07,336 I did so at His Majesty's request 96 00:06:07,360 --> 00:06:08,536 to celebrate Official Meng's success. 97 00:06:08,560 --> 00:06:11,456 The Left Chancellor has recently been sending 98 00:06:11,480 --> 00:06:13,176 many noblewomen into the palace to press His Majesty to choose an empress. 99 00:06:13,200 --> 00:06:15,176 -His Majesty came out to escape the commotion. -Enough. 100 00:06:15,200 --> 00:06:16,540 Let us eat. 101 00:06:17,400 --> 00:06:18,416 The lamb is ready. 102 00:06:18,440 --> 00:06:20,096 There are also dishes from my hometown. 103 00:06:20,120 --> 00:06:21,016 Please try them. 104 00:06:21,040 --> 00:06:22,336 Anything you cooked 105 00:06:22,360 --> 00:06:23,660 His Majesty would not dare taste anything you cooked. 106 00:06:25,880 --> 00:06:28,020 Then perhaps we should taste it for His Majesty first. 107 00:06:35,040 --> 00:06:36,620 Fresh and delicious. 108 00:06:37,200 --> 00:06:38,576 It is good. 109 00:06:38,600 --> 00:06:41,020 My lord has excellent taste. I like it too. 110 00:06:52,760 --> 00:06:54,216 What is this? 111 00:06:54,240 --> 00:06:55,136 How dare you, Yin Qing! 112 00:06:55,160 --> 00:06:56,296 You tried to poison His Majesty! 113 00:06:56,320 --> 00:06:57,496 No... 114 00:06:57,520 --> 00:06:58,776 This is fish mint. 115 00:06:58,800 --> 00:06:59,856 It is edible. 116 00:06:59,880 --> 00:07:02,176 Look, my lord is enjoying it. 117 00:07:02,200 --> 00:07:03,296 Perhaps His Majesty's tastes 118 00:07:03,320 --> 00:07:05,580 and my lord's tastes differ... 119 00:07:06,040 --> 00:07:07,260 greatly. 120 00:07:08,640 --> 00:07:10,456 Huang Bo, bring the wine. 121 00:07:10,480 --> 00:07:12,056 Wait. 122 00:07:12,080 --> 00:07:14,416 The weather has been turning colder, 123 00:07:14,440 --> 00:07:16,056 so I brewed some fruit wine 124 00:07:16,080 --> 00:07:17,536 for everyone to taste. 125 00:07:17,560 --> 00:07:19,060 Wonderful! 126 00:07:38,400 --> 00:07:39,540 My turn. 127 00:07:42,320 --> 00:07:43,576 This fruit wine 128 00:07:43,600 --> 00:07:45,416 nourishes the complexion 129 00:07:45,440 --> 00:07:47,980 and makes one glow. 130 00:07:49,960 --> 00:07:51,180 However... 131 00:07:51,560 --> 00:07:54,620 for Official Meng and Miss Yan, 132 00:07:54,840 --> 00:07:56,496 its effects will be rather ordinary. 133 00:07:56,520 --> 00:07:57,860 -Why? -Why? 134 00:07:58,120 --> 00:07:59,536 Because you two 135 00:07:59,560 --> 00:08:01,580 are naturally beautiful. 136 00:08:16,040 --> 00:08:17,580 Yin Qing, 137 00:08:17,840 --> 00:08:20,256 you have been working nonstop. 138 00:08:20,280 --> 00:08:21,336 Sit down and rest. 139 00:08:21,360 --> 00:08:22,500 Certainly. 140 00:08:23,440 --> 00:08:25,496 The lamb has gone a little cold. 141 00:08:25,520 --> 00:08:27,500 -It needs reheating. -I will do it. 142 00:08:35,200 --> 00:08:37,496 The fruit wine is cold too. Warm it up. 143 00:08:37,520 --> 00:08:40,100 Of course. Here I go again. 144 00:08:42,800 --> 00:08:45,020 Yin Qing, I will help you. 145 00:08:48,680 --> 00:08:50,736 How could your cooking compare with his? 146 00:08:50,760 --> 00:08:52,060 Sit. 147 00:09:06,600 --> 00:09:08,256 If Your Majesty has any grievance against me, 148 00:09:08,280 --> 00:09:09,860 please say it directly. 149 00:09:10,760 --> 00:09:12,496 When have I ever had a grievance against you? 150 00:09:12,520 --> 00:09:14,456 Then why is Your Majesty making things difficult for my colleague? 151 00:09:14,480 --> 00:09:15,980 You call that making things difficult? 152 00:09:18,360 --> 00:09:19,856 It seems Director Meng 153 00:09:19,880 --> 00:09:22,020 cares far more about her colleagues than about me. 154 00:09:29,280 --> 00:09:30,420 Your Majesty. 155 00:09:30,800 --> 00:09:32,816 Changle Street was crowded with people and carriages. 156 00:09:32,840 --> 00:09:34,416 I am sorry to have kept Your Majesty waiting. 157 00:09:34,440 --> 00:09:36,456 I also spent a little time dressing, 158 00:09:36,480 --> 00:09:37,376 which delayed me. 159 00:09:37,400 --> 00:09:39,176 Sit down and try the specialties of Shazhou. 160 00:09:39,200 --> 00:09:40,500 Come, sit over here. 161 00:09:41,920 --> 00:09:43,296 I know you do not eat ginger. 162 00:09:43,320 --> 00:09:45,096 This has neither scallions nor garlic. 163 00:09:45,120 --> 00:09:46,296 I guarantee you will like it. 164 00:09:46,320 --> 00:09:47,536 Thank you, Yin Qing. 165 00:09:47,560 --> 00:09:49,500 You are always the kindest and most attentive. 166 00:09:51,080 --> 00:09:51,976 So there is someone in this world 167 00:09:52,000 --> 00:09:53,856 who understands Zhili's tastes better than you. 168 00:09:53,880 --> 00:09:54,976 Still, 169 00:09:55,000 --> 00:09:56,936 it is good for Zhili to spend more time with Yin Qing. 170 00:09:56,960 --> 00:09:57,936 After all, she is an unmarried young woman. 171 00:09:57,960 --> 00:10:00,060 It is better than being too close to her teacher. 172 00:10:02,200 --> 00:10:04,056 Sister Shen, Captain Di, 173 00:10:04,080 --> 00:10:05,896 you are late. You must drink three cups as punishment. 174 00:10:05,920 --> 00:10:07,096 Very well. 175 00:10:07,120 --> 00:10:08,176 I will drink 176 00:10:08,200 --> 00:10:09,456 Sister Zhili's share for her. 177 00:10:09,480 --> 00:10:10,700 There is no need... 178 00:10:11,760 --> 00:10:13,180 Captain Di, sit down. 179 00:10:13,760 --> 00:10:14,656 This 180 00:10:14,680 --> 00:10:16,340 is fruit wine I brewed myself. 181 00:10:16,760 --> 00:10:17,816 It is good for the complexion. 182 00:10:17,840 --> 00:10:19,780 Do you know Sister Zhili cannot hold her liquor? 183 00:10:26,800 --> 00:10:28,816 Today is a celebration. We should enjoy ourselves. 184 00:10:28,840 --> 00:10:29,976 Tomorrow, 185 00:10:30,000 --> 00:10:31,980 we will surely find a clue to the Tiger Roar Gang. 186 00:10:34,440 --> 00:10:35,860 Then let us wish 187 00:10:36,560 --> 00:10:37,740 for everything to go smoothly tomorrow. 188 00:10:38,600 --> 00:10:41,540 -Cheers. -Cheers. 189 00:10:59,480 --> 00:11:01,736 Official Meng stands high above everyone 190 00:11:01,760 --> 00:11:03,776 and can naturally speak grandly of conscience. 191 00:11:03,800 --> 00:11:05,420 But for people like us, 192 00:11:06,560 --> 00:11:07,700 kindness... 193 00:11:08,440 --> 00:11:10,580 only makes us die sooner. 194 00:11:15,200 --> 00:11:17,300 You use having no choice as an excuse 195 00:11:18,200 --> 00:11:20,416 to help tyrants commit evil with a clear conscience? 196 00:11:20,440 --> 00:11:22,100 As a fellow woman, 197 00:11:22,960 --> 00:11:24,176 you watched those girls 198 00:11:24,200 --> 00:11:25,336 be pushed into a living hell. 199 00:11:25,360 --> 00:11:27,296 You heard them cry and beg for help, 200 00:11:27,320 --> 00:11:29,416 yet you smiled as you handed their tormentors the whip. 201 00:11:29,440 --> 00:11:31,740 A-Yue was only eighteen. 202 00:11:32,640 --> 00:11:34,176 She was tortured to death. 203 00:11:34,200 --> 00:11:36,340 Have you never had nightmares at night? 204 00:11:40,280 --> 00:11:41,420 Nightmares? 205 00:11:48,880 --> 00:11:50,540 Official Meng, 206 00:11:51,320 --> 00:11:52,696 this is what 207 00:11:52,720 --> 00:11:54,940 the conscience you speak of brought me. 208 00:11:55,240 --> 00:11:57,180 I was only fourteen 209 00:11:57,440 --> 00:11:58,816 when I was sold there. 210 00:11:58,840 --> 00:12:01,580 They tortured me like livestock. 211 00:12:03,480 --> 00:12:05,380 I was locked in the gambling house dungeon. 212 00:12:05,640 --> 00:12:07,856 They chained me to an iron post 213 00:12:07,880 --> 00:12:08,776 for an entire month, 214 00:12:08,800 --> 00:12:10,256 drugged me, 215 00:12:10,280 --> 00:12:12,660 and then hung me naked 216 00:12:12,840 --> 00:12:14,620 from the gambling house's second floor. 217 00:12:14,880 --> 00:12:16,776 They let every gambler wager 218 00:12:16,800 --> 00:12:18,780 on how many days it would take me to beg. 219 00:12:20,160 --> 00:12:22,100 Do you think I had a choice? 220 00:12:24,800 --> 00:12:26,180 Either submit 221 00:12:27,440 --> 00:12:28,580 or die. 222 00:12:29,520 --> 00:12:31,180 I did not want to die. 223 00:12:32,200 --> 00:12:33,780 I wanted to live. 224 00:12:35,880 --> 00:12:37,296 Even if I had to live like a ghost, 225 00:12:37,320 --> 00:12:38,860 I still wanted to live. 226 00:12:40,560 --> 00:12:41,900 Was I wrong? 227 00:12:42,240 --> 00:12:43,216 Official Meng, 228 00:12:43,240 --> 00:12:46,180 Not everyone is entitled 229 00:12:47,040 --> 00:12:49,300 to live with clean hands like you. 230 00:13:10,880 --> 00:13:12,500 Tell me about the dealings 231 00:13:12,920 --> 00:13:14,900 between Xingrong Gambling House and the Tiger Roar Gang. 232 00:13:15,200 --> 00:13:16,456 I stake my life on it: 233 00:13:16,480 --> 00:13:18,620 I will avenge this blood debt for you. 234 00:13:19,840 --> 00:13:20,980 Fumeng, 235 00:13:21,200 --> 00:13:22,620 you still hate them, do you not? 236 00:13:22,960 --> 00:13:24,576 You hate the people who made you this way. 237 00:13:24,600 --> 00:13:27,296 But if you continue helping them commit evil, 238 00:13:27,320 --> 00:13:29,896 you are stabbing the girl you once were. 239 00:13:29,920 --> 00:13:31,696 If Hao Wenming truly regarded you as one of his own, 240 00:13:31,720 --> 00:13:33,136 why are you 241 00:13:33,160 --> 00:13:34,496 still confined to the gambling house? 242 00:13:34,520 --> 00:13:35,816 Fumeng, 243 00:13:35,840 --> 00:13:37,980 you know their methods better than anyone. 244 00:13:38,640 --> 00:13:39,780 Speak. 245 00:13:40,080 --> 00:13:41,620 Have you ever considered 246 00:13:41,880 --> 00:13:43,180 what they fear? 247 00:13:43,600 --> 00:13:45,096 What they fear most 248 00:13:45,120 --> 00:13:46,256 is people like you 249 00:13:46,280 --> 00:13:47,940 standing up to testify against them. 250 00:13:50,880 --> 00:13:52,660 But what you want to know, 251 00:13:53,960 --> 00:13:55,696 I truly know nothing about. 252 00:13:55,720 --> 00:13:57,656 Hao Wenming 253 00:13:57,680 --> 00:13:58,736 never allowed those under him 254 00:13:58,760 --> 00:14:00,576 to ask about the Tiger Roar Gang. 255 00:14:00,600 --> 00:14:03,096 We only handled odd jobs at the gambling house 256 00:14:03,120 --> 00:14:04,776 and sent the girls into the private rooms. 257 00:14:04,800 --> 00:14:07,136 So I have never met anyone from the Tiger Roar Gang. 258 00:14:07,160 --> 00:14:09,220 You became Hao Wenming's most trusted aide, 259 00:14:09,760 --> 00:14:10,656 and you still pretend to know nothing? 260 00:14:10,680 --> 00:14:12,216 Hao Wenming 261 00:14:12,240 --> 00:14:13,660 was extremely cautious. 262 00:14:14,120 --> 00:14:15,816 Besides, with matters at this point, 263 00:14:15,840 --> 00:14:17,540 what reason would I have to hide anything? 264 00:14:18,600 --> 00:14:20,736 I will die either way. 265 00:14:20,760 --> 00:14:22,136 Let me serve those girls 266 00:14:22,160 --> 00:14:23,700 as an ox or horse in the afterlife. 267 00:14:24,040 --> 00:14:25,940 I will kneel before them 268 00:14:26,800 --> 00:14:28,260 and beg forgiveness. 269 00:14:31,000 --> 00:14:32,140 My lord. 270 00:14:32,880 --> 00:14:35,500 Our only breakthrough now is Hao Wenming. 271 00:14:45,360 --> 00:14:47,420 Brother Hao, wake up. 272 00:14:47,960 --> 00:14:50,216 Fumeng has confessed everything 273 00:14:50,240 --> 00:14:52,100 about Xingrong Gambling House and the Tiger Roar Gang. 274 00:14:52,360 --> 00:14:54,300 If you can tell us something new, 275 00:14:54,640 --> 00:14:55,980 you may be allowed to live. 276 00:14:56,720 --> 00:14:58,380 She does not know a damn thing. 277 00:15:00,080 --> 00:15:01,620 You two little brats 278 00:15:02,240 --> 00:15:03,380 are trying to trick me. 279 00:15:14,360 --> 00:15:16,660 Under severe punishment, cowards emerge. 280 00:15:17,120 --> 00:15:19,060 Under great rewards, brave men emerge. 281 00:15:19,600 --> 00:15:21,940 Would you care to gamble with your life? 282 00:15:22,240 --> 00:15:24,496 Let us see whether, if you keep silent, 283 00:15:24,520 --> 00:15:25,936 the Tiger Roar Gang comes to rescue you 284 00:15:25,960 --> 00:15:27,220 or comes to kill you. 285 00:15:28,240 --> 00:15:30,496 Tell us everything you know about Ling Yunfei 286 00:15:30,520 --> 00:15:33,096 and every court official colluding with the Tiger Roar Gang. 287 00:15:33,120 --> 00:15:34,656 Do not omit a single word. 288 00:15:34,680 --> 00:15:36,176 Hao Wenming, 289 00:15:36,200 --> 00:15:37,980 this is your only chance to live. 290 00:15:40,080 --> 00:15:41,096 My lord, 291 00:15:41,120 --> 00:15:42,820 why waste words on him? 292 00:15:43,440 --> 00:15:45,460 Until he tastes the branding iron, 293 00:15:46,000 --> 00:15:48,100 he will keep pretending to be tough. 294 00:16:01,240 --> 00:16:03,736 I... 295 00:16:03,760 --> 00:16:05,336 I will confess... 296 00:16:05,360 --> 00:16:06,576 I will. 297 00:16:06,600 --> 00:16:07,536 I will tell you everything. 298 00:16:07,560 --> 00:16:09,336 I will write down 299 00:16:09,360 --> 00:16:10,660 everything I know. 300 00:16:19,280 --> 00:16:20,540 Guards! 301 00:16:30,280 --> 00:16:31,616 Call a physician. 302 00:16:31,640 --> 00:16:32,780 Yes. 303 00:16:35,480 --> 00:16:37,900 You would rather die than confess. 304 00:16:38,280 --> 00:16:39,540 I fear death, 305 00:16:40,920 --> 00:16:43,300 but I fear Ling Yunfei even more. 306 00:16:45,320 --> 00:16:46,740 A traitor's 307 00:16:48,920 --> 00:16:50,500 entire family is buried with him. 308 00:16:51,360 --> 00:16:53,740 That is the Tiger Roar Gang's rule. 309 00:16:54,000 --> 00:16:56,380 The day I boarded this ship, 310 00:16:58,240 --> 00:17:00,420 I wrote my will 311 00:17:01,920 --> 00:17:03,136 for my wife and children. 312 00:17:03,160 --> 00:17:05,420 You only need to stand up and testify, 313 00:17:06,320 --> 00:17:08,540 and I can destroy the Tiger Roar Gang. 314 00:17:08,920 --> 00:17:10,060 Official Meng. 315 00:17:13,440 --> 00:17:14,580 You... 316 00:17:15,080 --> 00:17:16,420 are good people. 317 00:17:16,760 --> 00:17:18,016 What happened to me today 318 00:17:18,040 --> 00:17:20,856 is entirely what I deserve. 319 00:17:20,880 --> 00:17:22,540 You cannot defeat him. 320 00:17:24,400 --> 00:17:25,620 Besides... 321 00:17:26,400 --> 00:17:27,940 The one you are fighting 322 00:17:29,280 --> 00:17:30,500 has never 323 00:17:31,240 --> 00:17:32,776 been him alone. 324 00:17:32,800 --> 00:17:34,060 Who else is there? 325 00:17:35,040 --> 00:17:36,180 Tell me. 326 00:17:39,760 --> 00:17:41,220 Official Meng, 327 00:17:41,640 --> 00:17:44,020 I beg you... 328 00:17:46,000 --> 00:17:47,580 For my family's sake, 329 00:17:48,520 --> 00:17:49,820 just say 330 00:17:50,800 --> 00:17:52,580 that I confessed nothing. 331 00:17:55,680 --> 00:17:56,576 Where is the physician? 332 00:17:56,600 --> 00:17:57,740 Physician! 333 00:17:58,720 --> 00:17:59,860 Hao Wenming! 334 00:18:38,640 --> 00:18:40,216 You have worked hard on the case these past few days 335 00:18:40,240 --> 00:18:41,736 and have hardly eaten a proper meal. 336 00:18:41,760 --> 00:18:43,616 Set official business aside tonight 337 00:18:43,640 --> 00:18:44,576 and try Bofeng House's 338 00:18:44,600 --> 00:18:46,056 new signature dishes. 339 00:18:46,080 --> 00:18:47,340 All right. 340 00:18:49,360 --> 00:18:50,976 There are many guests tonight. 341 00:18:51,000 --> 00:18:52,336 I will attend to the front hall. 342 00:18:52,360 --> 00:18:54,060 You must all eat properly. 343 00:18:54,920 --> 00:18:56,056 All right. 344 00:18:56,080 --> 00:18:57,660 Especially you. 345 00:19:06,200 --> 00:19:07,416 I have no appetite. 346 00:19:07,440 --> 00:19:09,616 Our bluff failed. 347 00:19:09,640 --> 00:19:11,056 Fumeng said 348 00:19:11,080 --> 00:19:12,616 the only person in contact with the Tiger Roar Gang 349 00:19:12,640 --> 00:19:14,220 was Hao Wenming. 350 00:19:14,480 --> 00:19:15,856 Now Hao Wenming is dead, 351 00:19:15,880 --> 00:19:17,056 and every lead is gone. 352 00:19:17,080 --> 00:19:18,856 Ling Yunfei's whereabouts are unknown. 353 00:19:18,880 --> 00:19:20,500 And the force behind him... 354 00:19:21,000 --> 00:19:22,860 who exactly are they? 355 00:19:24,760 --> 00:19:26,420 I previously suspected 356 00:19:26,680 --> 00:19:28,696 that the cross Wan Kai left behind 357 00:19:28,720 --> 00:19:30,500 may instead concern someone's identity. 358 00:19:30,840 --> 00:19:33,256 Before dying, Hao Wenming also deliberately said 359 00:19:33,280 --> 00:19:35,096 that I was not fighting Ling Yunfei alone. 360 00:19:35,120 --> 00:19:37,700 Lü Er also mentioned the person behind him before he died. 361 00:19:38,360 --> 00:19:39,860 Could all three clues 362 00:19:40,600 --> 00:19:42,460 point to the same person? 363 00:19:44,800 --> 00:19:45,940 It is possible. 364 00:19:46,440 --> 00:19:47,976 Could this cross 365 00:19:48,000 --> 00:19:50,060 be part of a written character? 366 00:19:50,680 --> 00:19:51,576 "Xiang." 367 00:19:51,600 --> 00:19:52,736 Could it 368 00:19:52,760 --> 00:19:54,300 refer to a Chancellor? 369 00:19:54,640 --> 00:19:56,496 Someone with overwhelming power... 370 00:19:56,520 --> 00:19:57,900 That could very well be the Left Chancellor. 371 00:19:58,680 --> 00:20:00,656 Add a box beneath the cross and it forms "Gu." 372 00:20:00,680 --> 00:20:01,896 It could also point to the Right Chancellor. 373 00:20:01,920 --> 00:20:03,260 Absolutely impossible. 374 00:20:03,640 --> 00:20:05,096 I know my teacher's character well. 375 00:20:05,120 --> 00:20:06,576 He is not the kind of treacherous schemer 376 00:20:06,600 --> 00:20:07,736 who would collude with Ling Yunfei. 377 00:20:07,760 --> 00:20:09,656 I will stake my reputation on him. 378 00:20:09,680 --> 00:20:11,616 I was only making a guess. 379 00:20:11,640 --> 00:20:12,536 Why take it so seriously? 380 00:20:12,560 --> 00:20:14,176 That was hardly a guess. 381 00:20:14,200 --> 00:20:15,256 It was baseless nonsense. 382 00:20:15,280 --> 00:20:17,060 Zhili also has a point. 383 00:20:18,480 --> 00:20:20,180 Without conclusive evidence, 384 00:20:20,720 --> 00:20:23,060 every suspicion is merely speculation. 385 00:20:25,360 --> 00:20:26,776 To uncover the truth, 386 00:20:26,800 --> 00:20:28,096 we must find Ling Yunfei. 387 00:20:28,120 --> 00:20:29,576 Other shops on Changle Street 388 00:20:29,600 --> 00:20:31,616 may also be connected to the Tiger Roar Gang. 389 00:20:31,640 --> 00:20:33,136 We cannot let go 390 00:20:33,160 --> 00:20:34,056 of even the slightest possibility. 391 00:20:34,080 --> 00:20:35,336 -Yes. -Yes. 392 00:20:35,360 --> 00:20:36,500 Then we... 393 00:20:36,840 --> 00:20:37,976 should eat properly. 394 00:20:38,000 --> 00:20:39,620 Especially you. 395 00:20:52,400 --> 00:20:53,856 -Shopkeeper Yan. -Shopkeeper Yan. 396 00:20:53,880 --> 00:20:55,656 Is Official Meng here today? 397 00:20:55,680 --> 00:20:57,940 Could we meet Official Meng? 398 00:20:58,560 --> 00:20:59,976 Meet Mengmeng? 399 00:21:00,000 --> 00:21:02,176 Yes. Official Meng destroyed 400 00:21:02,200 --> 00:21:04,016 the wicked Xingrong Gambling House in one stroke 401 00:21:04,040 --> 00:21:05,696 and saved so many women. 402 00:21:05,720 --> 00:21:07,216 -She is truly a heroine among women. -Shopkeeper Yan. 403 00:21:07,240 --> 00:21:08,496 You are here too. 404 00:21:08,520 --> 00:21:10,100 Come, let me through. 405 00:21:10,360 --> 00:21:12,416 Though Shopkeeper Yan and Official Meng are not sisters by blood, 406 00:21:12,440 --> 00:21:14,256 they are closer than true sisters. 407 00:21:14,280 --> 00:21:15,296 To have such a friend 408 00:21:15,320 --> 00:21:16,856 -is truly enviable. -Shopkeeper Yan. 409 00:21:16,880 --> 00:21:18,376 We came because of her reputation. 410 00:21:18,400 --> 00:21:19,376 Could you make an exception 411 00:21:19,400 --> 00:21:20,656 and let us meet Official Meng? 412 00:21:20,680 --> 00:21:21,856 Yes. 413 00:21:21,880 --> 00:21:23,136 Please let us meet her. 414 00:21:23,160 --> 00:21:24,816 Everyone, please be patient. 415 00:21:24,840 --> 00:21:27,216 Official Meng is busy today and cannot be disturbed. 416 00:21:27,240 --> 00:21:28,376 However, 417 00:21:28,400 --> 00:21:30,736 I will personally cook for all of you today. 418 00:21:30,760 --> 00:21:31,816 -Great! -Great! 419 00:21:31,840 --> 00:21:32,980 Please come inside. 420 00:21:33,480 --> 00:21:35,540 We finally get to taste Shopkeeper Yan's cooking. 421 00:22:41,000 --> 00:22:41,976 Mengmeng. 422 00:22:42,000 --> 00:22:43,140 What is wrong? 423 00:22:43,920 --> 00:22:45,060 Mengmeng. 424 00:22:45,640 --> 00:22:47,500 Mengmeng, sit down first. 425 00:22:47,920 --> 00:22:49,060 Slowly. 426 00:22:55,840 --> 00:22:57,856 Mengmeng, I made sugarcane water especially for you. 427 00:22:57,880 --> 00:23:00,376 It replenishes the blood, relieves dryness, and nourishes digestion. 428 00:23:00,400 --> 00:23:01,540 Drink some more. 429 00:23:09,560 --> 00:23:10,456 Mengmeng, 430 00:23:10,480 --> 00:23:11,816 Bofeng House was bustling today. 431 00:23:11,840 --> 00:23:12,776 So many people came, 432 00:23:12,800 --> 00:23:14,136 all hoping to see you. 433 00:23:14,160 --> 00:23:16,820 They all called you a hero of Great Ning. 434 00:23:21,160 --> 00:23:22,820 The more they praise me, 435 00:23:27,080 --> 00:23:28,860 the worse I feel. 436 00:23:30,600 --> 00:23:32,660 Every lead to the Tiger Roar Gang is now gone. 437 00:23:33,320 --> 00:23:35,220 If we cannot capture Ling Yunfei, 438 00:23:36,160 --> 00:23:37,696 all that praise 439 00:23:37,720 --> 00:23:39,460 will eventually turn into condemnation. 440 00:23:40,960 --> 00:23:43,660 You cannot put so much pressure on yourself. 441 00:23:51,800 --> 00:23:52,940 Fuzhi, 442 00:23:53,840 --> 00:23:55,096 I am no longer the orphan girl from Shazhou 443 00:23:55,120 --> 00:23:56,860 who had nothing. 444 00:23:58,400 --> 00:24:00,260 Now I wear an official robe 445 00:24:00,800 --> 00:24:02,740 and carry the people's hopes. 446 00:24:03,000 --> 00:24:04,896 I understand even more clearly where 447 00:24:04,920 --> 00:24:06,260 the Bureau's official lantern should shine. 448 00:24:07,760 --> 00:24:09,500 The Tiger Roar Gang must be eliminated 449 00:24:10,200 --> 00:24:12,216 so desperate people hidden in dark corners 450 00:24:12,240 --> 00:24:13,620 can have a little more hope. 451 00:24:14,320 --> 00:24:16,260 Of course I believe in you. 452 00:24:16,920 --> 00:24:19,056 But you must promise me: 453 00:24:19,080 --> 00:24:20,576 when you hold an umbrella over others, 454 00:24:20,600 --> 00:24:22,420 protect yourself first. 455 00:24:30,320 --> 00:24:31,896 -I must leave now. -Where are you going? 456 00:24:31,920 --> 00:24:34,696 Back to the palace to report our leads to His Majesty, 457 00:24:34,720 --> 00:24:36,740 before he suspects me of withholding information again. 458 00:24:45,640 --> 00:24:46,860 Miss Meng. 459 00:24:50,760 --> 00:24:51,856 Miss Meng! 460 00:24:51,880 --> 00:24:54,336 I have come today with betrothal gifts 461 00:24:54,360 --> 00:24:56,020 to take you as my wife. 462 00:24:56,840 --> 00:24:57,980 Miss Meng. 463 00:24:58,800 --> 00:25:00,096 So you do not even know 464 00:25:00,120 --> 00:25:01,260 which one is Miss Meng? 465 00:25:05,520 --> 00:25:07,540 Then this lady must be Miss Meng. 466 00:25:08,560 --> 00:25:10,856 I never imagined you were even more beautiful than the rumors. 467 00:25:10,880 --> 00:25:12,900 You are so lovely. I am determined to marry you. 468 00:25:14,080 --> 00:25:15,580 Stop. 469 00:25:25,560 --> 00:25:26,736 You think you are worthy? 470 00:25:26,760 --> 00:25:28,300 Who are you? 471 00:25:29,120 --> 00:25:31,980 I never conceal my name or identity. 472 00:25:32,160 --> 00:25:34,416 Xu Ting, the current Left Chancellor, is my father. 473 00:25:34,440 --> 00:25:36,136 I am his only son, 474 00:25:36,160 --> 00:25:37,940 Xu Runze. 475 00:25:40,520 --> 00:25:41,660 Miss Meng, 476 00:25:41,920 --> 00:25:42,936 trust me. 477 00:25:42,960 --> 00:25:44,536 If the two of us marry, 478 00:25:44,560 --> 00:25:45,736 we will be a match made in heaven: 479 00:25:45,760 --> 00:25:47,296 a talented man and a beautiful woman. No, wait... 480 00:25:47,320 --> 00:25:48,576 a talented woman and a handsome man. 481 00:25:48,600 --> 00:25:49,820 Keep your distance. 482 00:25:50,240 --> 00:25:51,376 Young Master Xu, 483 00:25:51,400 --> 00:25:53,900 does your father know you are out here embarrassing yourself? 484 00:25:54,520 --> 00:25:55,856 My father said 485 00:25:55,880 --> 00:25:57,260 that a true man 486 00:25:57,600 --> 00:26:00,180 must charge forward once he sees what he wants. 487 00:26:01,080 --> 00:26:03,260 Besides, I already wrote the marriage contract. 488 00:26:05,120 --> 00:26:06,896 Today, the handsome 489 00:26:06,920 --> 00:26:09,256 and charming Xu Runze 490 00:26:09,280 --> 00:26:10,656 wishes to marry the breathtaking 491 00:26:10,680 --> 00:26:13,340 and talented Meng Tinghui. 492 00:26:13,600 --> 00:26:14,900 In this life, 493 00:26:15,320 --> 00:26:16,460 she shall be his only one. 494 00:26:18,560 --> 00:26:19,816 Thank you all for your support. 495 00:26:19,840 --> 00:26:21,900 Every expense at Bofeng House today 496 00:26:22,440 --> 00:26:24,176 is on me. 497 00:26:24,200 --> 00:26:25,536 Eat and drink to your hearts' content. 498 00:26:25,560 --> 00:26:26,856 Wonderful! 499 00:26:26,880 --> 00:26:28,900 -Eat up. Everyone, sit. -Yan Fuzhi! 500 00:26:29,320 --> 00:26:30,460 Young Master Xu, 501 00:26:30,800 --> 00:26:32,256 you and I have never met. 502 00:26:32,280 --> 00:26:33,336 How can there be any talk of marriage? 503 00:26:33,360 --> 00:26:35,216 Please leave Bofeng House at once. 504 00:26:35,240 --> 00:26:36,136 It seems 505 00:26:36,160 --> 00:26:37,936 Young Master Xu has gone foolish from studying too much. 506 00:26:37,960 --> 00:26:39,016 No... 507 00:26:39,040 --> 00:26:40,336 My father said 508 00:26:40,360 --> 00:26:41,856 I am foolish because I studied too little. 509 00:26:41,880 --> 00:26:44,616 That is why I need a talented wife to improve the family bloodline. 510 00:26:44,640 --> 00:26:46,056 Miss Meng, just consider it... 511 00:26:46,080 --> 00:26:47,376 for the sake of the Xu family's future descendants. 512 00:26:47,400 --> 00:26:49,496 -Marry me. -Young Master Xu. 513 00:26:49,520 --> 00:26:50,936 Please stop making jokes at my expense. 514 00:26:50,960 --> 00:26:53,056 Miss Meng, I sincerely wish to marry you. 515 00:26:53,080 --> 00:26:55,896 My family has power, influence, and wealth. 516 00:26:55,920 --> 00:26:57,936 You need not worry that you are unworthy of me. 517 00:26:57,960 --> 00:26:58,856 When I, Xu Runze, take a wife, 518 00:26:58,880 --> 00:27:00,416 I do not care about her family background. 519 00:27:00,440 --> 00:27:02,780 She only needs to be clever and well-read like you. 520 00:27:03,760 --> 00:27:04,656 Servants! 521 00:27:04,680 --> 00:27:06,860 Carry every betrothal gift into Bofeng House. 522 00:27:07,400 --> 00:27:08,576 Put them down. 523 00:27:08,600 --> 00:27:09,496 Let us see who dares. 524 00:27:09,520 --> 00:27:10,980 -Who dares enter? -Wait. 525 00:27:19,840 --> 00:27:21,016 Young Master Xu, 526 00:27:21,040 --> 00:27:22,900 you are humiliating Miss Meng. 527 00:27:23,640 --> 00:27:24,856 Miss Situ, 528 00:27:24,880 --> 00:27:26,176 what gives you the right to say that? 529 00:27:26,200 --> 00:27:27,616 Is Miss Meng the sort of woman 530 00:27:27,640 --> 00:27:29,536 who would be swayed by lavish betrothal gifts? 531 00:27:29,560 --> 00:27:31,340 By making such a spectacle, 532 00:27:31,960 --> 00:27:34,100 what position have you placed her in? 533 00:27:35,800 --> 00:27:38,056 Miss Meng, let me explain. 534 00:27:38,080 --> 00:27:39,220 Young Master Xu, 535 00:27:39,760 --> 00:27:40,936 if you keep talking, 536 00:27:40,960 --> 00:27:42,136 you will only make matters worse. 537 00:27:42,160 --> 00:27:44,380 If you sincerely wish to marry Miss Meng, 538 00:27:44,680 --> 00:27:46,376 let us go to Huiyin House. 539 00:27:46,400 --> 00:27:47,296 I have a plan. 540 00:27:47,320 --> 00:27:49,300 Miss Situ, let us leave at once. 541 00:27:59,320 --> 00:28:00,416 Young Master Xu, 542 00:28:00,440 --> 00:28:01,740 what about your betrothal gifts? 543 00:28:02,240 --> 00:28:04,940 They say the Left Chancellor has a son with a most unusual mind. 544 00:28:05,640 --> 00:28:07,740 Today, I finally witnessed it. 545 00:28:11,320 --> 00:28:13,096 -You... -Chief Steward You. 546 00:28:13,120 --> 00:28:15,216 His Majesty is handling state affairs and cannot be disturbed. 547 00:28:15,240 --> 00:28:16,136 Huang Bo, 548 00:28:16,160 --> 00:28:17,896 you brat, how can you be so unreasonable? 549 00:28:17,920 --> 00:28:18,816 It is precisely because I know 550 00:28:18,840 --> 00:28:20,536 His Majesty is busy with state affairs 551 00:28:20,560 --> 00:28:21,776 that I came especially to ease his worries. 552 00:28:21,800 --> 00:28:23,180 Stop blocking me. 553 00:28:24,960 --> 00:28:26,336 Chief Steward You, 554 00:28:26,360 --> 00:28:28,256 His Majesty ordered that no one disturb him. 555 00:28:28,280 --> 00:28:29,496 Please do not make things difficult for me. 556 00:28:29,520 --> 00:28:30,416 What? 557 00:28:30,440 --> 00:28:31,856 Am I merely "no one"? 558 00:28:31,880 --> 00:28:33,416 Others come to trouble His Majesty. 559 00:28:33,440 --> 00:28:35,056 I came to make him happy. 560 00:28:35,080 --> 00:28:36,220 Let me in. 561 00:28:36,840 --> 00:28:38,660 What are you doing...? 562 00:28:39,440 --> 00:28:42,380 Your Majesty... 563 00:28:44,080 --> 00:28:44,976 Your Majesty, 564 00:28:45,000 --> 00:28:46,816 this old servant heard you have been 565 00:28:46,840 --> 00:28:48,460 overwhelmed with state affairs lately. 566 00:28:48,720 --> 00:28:51,216 I spent ten days and nights 567 00:28:51,240 --> 00:28:52,736 preparing a wonderful performance for you. 568 00:28:52,760 --> 00:28:54,380 -Please, Your Majesty... -Let us go. 569 00:28:55,760 --> 00:28:57,856 Wonderful. Coming... 570 00:28:57,880 --> 00:29:00,020 Your Majesty, the dance begins. 571 00:29:28,760 --> 00:29:29,816 This is the surprise 572 00:29:29,840 --> 00:29:31,376 you spent ten days and nights preparing? 573 00:29:31,400 --> 00:29:32,940 Your Majesty, 574 00:29:33,200 --> 00:29:34,500 are you surprised? 575 00:29:34,800 --> 00:29:36,780 Are you delighted? Was it unexpected? 576 00:29:37,200 --> 00:29:38,096 These noble ladies 577 00:29:38,120 --> 00:29:41,456 are the finest dancers in the capital, 578 00:29:41,480 --> 00:29:44,300 especially Lady Wen. 579 00:29:55,280 --> 00:29:57,376 You truly understand me. 580 00:29:57,400 --> 00:29:58,820 Thank you for the praise. 581 00:29:59,560 --> 00:30:00,816 Your Majesty, 582 00:30:00,840 --> 00:30:01,736 you must not leave. 583 00:30:01,760 --> 00:30:03,936 These ladies are all daughters of important ministers. 584 00:30:03,960 --> 00:30:06,016 If you walk away like this, 585 00:30:06,040 --> 00:30:08,576 will you not chill the hearts of your loyal officials? 586 00:30:08,600 --> 00:30:10,536 All my painstaking effort 587 00:30:10,560 --> 00:30:12,740 was for the sake of the realm. 588 00:30:13,240 --> 00:30:14,456 Please take pity 589 00:30:14,480 --> 00:30:16,176 on these old bones 590 00:30:16,200 --> 00:30:18,860 and at least watch a little longer, Your Majesty. 591 00:30:31,520 --> 00:30:34,540 This subject, Wen Ruomei, respectfully greets Your Majesty. 592 00:30:37,200 --> 00:30:40,376 -Greetings, Your Majesty. -Greetings, Your Majesty. 593 00:30:40,400 --> 00:30:42,140 Your Majesty is in fine spirits. 594 00:30:49,200 --> 00:30:50,256 Your Majesty. 595 00:30:50,280 --> 00:30:51,420 Your Maj... 596 00:30:55,440 --> 00:30:57,020 Official Meng is in fine spirits too. 597 00:30:57,240 --> 00:30:59,056 You hid here to enjoy my performance. 598 00:30:59,080 --> 00:31:00,380 I have been wronged. 599 00:31:01,160 --> 00:31:02,816 Had I spoken rashly, 600 00:31:02,840 --> 00:31:04,496 would I not have ruined Your Majesty's pleasure 601 00:31:04,520 --> 00:31:06,256 in watching all these beauties compete? 602 00:31:06,280 --> 00:31:07,860 I shall take my leave. 603 00:31:09,960 --> 00:31:11,256 Too late. 604 00:31:11,280 --> 00:31:13,700 No one watches a performance without paying the performers. 605 00:31:16,120 --> 00:31:17,376 Why not take the stage as well 606 00:31:17,400 --> 00:31:19,016 and compete 607 00:31:19,040 --> 00:31:20,656 with these noble ladies? 608 00:31:20,680 --> 00:31:22,536 Your Majesty intends to use me again. 609 00:31:22,560 --> 00:31:24,096 If I perform here, 610 00:31:24,120 --> 00:31:25,856 tomorrow at court 611 00:31:25,880 --> 00:31:27,096 there will surely be several more memorials 612 00:31:27,120 --> 00:31:28,256 impeaching me for currying favor. 613 00:31:28,280 --> 00:31:29,580 Would that not be perfect? 614 00:31:30,200 --> 00:31:32,740 It would further prove you are my favored official. 615 00:31:34,600 --> 00:31:36,900 Since Your Majesty wants me to be this favored official, 616 00:31:37,520 --> 00:31:39,460 why not grant me a substantive fifth-rank post, 617 00:31:39,840 --> 00:31:41,016 so my reputation as a flattering favorite 618 00:31:41,040 --> 00:31:42,456 will finally match reality? 619 00:31:42,480 --> 00:31:44,940 You certainly know how to bargain. 620 00:31:45,440 --> 00:31:46,936 One rank higher 621 00:31:46,960 --> 00:31:48,500 means standing above others. 622 00:31:50,440 --> 00:31:52,820 Since I will bear the infamy either way, 623 00:31:53,440 --> 00:31:55,256 I may as well gain something tangible from it. 624 00:31:55,280 --> 00:31:56,896 Your Majesty, the dance is over. 625 00:31:56,920 --> 00:31:58,736 The noble ladies are still waiting. 626 00:31:58,760 --> 00:32:00,140 I am in excellent spirits today. 627 00:32:00,840 --> 00:32:02,016 How about this? 628 00:32:02,040 --> 00:32:03,500 Compete once more. 629 00:32:03,760 --> 00:32:05,136 Whoever wins 630 00:32:05,160 --> 00:32:07,220 will remain and dine with me. 631 00:32:12,480 --> 00:32:13,620 I will go first. 632 00:32:20,360 --> 00:32:21,976 I once learned 633 00:32:22,000 --> 00:32:23,780 a small street trick. 634 00:32:24,360 --> 00:32:27,060 It is called "Spring Returns to Withered Wood." 635 00:32:27,440 --> 00:32:28,700 Your Majesty, please watch. 636 00:32:29,640 --> 00:32:31,456 This flower bud is waiting to bloom, 637 00:32:31,480 --> 00:32:32,940 like uncarved jade, 638 00:32:33,200 --> 00:32:35,136 holding limitless vitality within. 639 00:32:35,160 --> 00:32:37,180 It lacks only a breath of spring. 640 00:32:38,120 --> 00:32:40,140 Your Majesty is the true Son of Heaven, 641 00:32:40,600 --> 00:32:42,860 bearing the imperial aura of the Purple Star. 642 00:32:43,120 --> 00:32:45,336 Please breathe 643 00:32:45,360 --> 00:32:47,140 a gentle breath of warmth upon this flower. 644 00:32:47,400 --> 00:32:48,416 Let it serve as the spark 645 00:32:48,440 --> 00:32:50,300 that awakens its boundless spirit. 646 00:33:10,520 --> 00:33:12,140 -It truly bloomed! -It bloomed! 647 00:33:12,520 --> 00:33:13,700 Your Majesty, please look. 648 00:33:14,600 --> 00:33:15,976 Though plants are humble, 649 00:33:16,000 --> 00:33:17,620 even they know to admire and follow strength. 650 00:33:18,200 --> 00:33:20,580 Bathed in heavenly grace, they burst into life. 651 00:33:21,000 --> 00:33:22,220 This flower 652 00:33:22,560 --> 00:33:24,136 bloomed for Your Majesty. 653 00:33:24,160 --> 00:33:25,300 Excellent. 654 00:33:26,480 --> 00:33:29,660 "Spring Returns to Withered Wood," and the weak follow the strong. 655 00:33:30,280 --> 00:33:31,780 Such amusement 656 00:33:32,200 --> 00:33:33,496 far surpasses song and dance. 657 00:33:33,520 --> 00:33:34,816 Your Majesty, 658 00:33:34,840 --> 00:33:36,936 Meng Tinghui is clearly using a cheap street illusion. 659 00:33:36,960 --> 00:33:38,176 It is unfit for refined company. 660 00:33:38,200 --> 00:33:40,180 Your Majesty holds the people in your heart. 661 00:33:40,840 --> 00:33:42,456 The amusements of the streets 662 00:33:42,480 --> 00:33:44,180 also reflect the lives of the people. 663 00:33:44,520 --> 00:33:45,696 Whether all things under heaven 664 00:33:45,720 --> 00:33:47,776 can bask in imperial grace and flourish 665 00:33:47,800 --> 00:33:50,580 is what truly concerns Your Majesty. 666 00:33:52,720 --> 00:33:53,980 Meng Tinghui, receive the decree. 667 00:33:55,160 --> 00:33:56,816 From this day forward, 668 00:33:56,840 --> 00:33:57,976 you are promoted to the full fifth rank 669 00:33:58,000 --> 00:34:00,056 and shall continue overseeing all affairs of the Bureau of Intelligence. 670 00:34:00,080 --> 00:34:02,340 I thank Your Majesty for this great favor. 671 00:34:06,000 --> 00:34:08,896 Official Meng, follow me back to the Imperial Study 672 00:34:08,920 --> 00:34:10,216 and explain properly 673 00:34:10,240 --> 00:34:11,136 what other amusements and wisdom 674 00:34:11,160 --> 00:34:13,700 can be found among the common people. 675 00:34:14,960 --> 00:34:16,100 Yes. 676 00:34:17,440 --> 00:34:18,536 Your Majesty. 677 00:34:18,560 --> 00:34:19,700 Your Majesty! 678 00:34:20,280 --> 00:34:21,820 Your Majesty... 679 00:34:25,880 --> 00:34:27,296 His Majesty and Official Meng 680 00:34:27,320 --> 00:34:28,216 have important matters to discuss 681 00:34:28,240 --> 00:34:29,536 and cannot be disturbed. 682 00:34:29,560 --> 00:34:30,456 Please return home. 683 00:34:30,480 --> 00:34:31,736 -Sister Wen. -Sister Wen. 684 00:34:31,760 --> 00:34:33,816 That seductress has bewitched His Majesty. 685 00:34:33,840 --> 00:34:35,936 I will have my father report her to the Left Chancellor. 686 00:34:35,960 --> 00:34:37,580 How did you do it? 687 00:34:38,800 --> 00:34:40,700 That is my little secret. 688 00:34:41,240 --> 00:34:43,020 How could I casually tell someone else? 689 00:35:39,680 --> 00:35:40,820 -Good! -Good! 690 00:35:47,240 --> 00:35:48,380 My lord. 691 00:35:49,320 --> 00:35:50,460 What is wrong? 692 00:35:50,800 --> 00:35:52,380 Why do you look so pale? 693 00:35:53,240 --> 00:35:54,380 My lord. 694 00:35:59,160 --> 00:36:01,020 My lord, what are you looking for? 695 00:36:02,480 --> 00:36:03,940 A ghost. 696 00:36:17,160 --> 00:36:18,900 Sister A-Xiang. 697 00:36:22,680 --> 00:36:24,056 Let go! Let go of me! 698 00:36:24,080 --> 00:36:26,536 Sister A-Xiang! 699 00:36:26,560 --> 00:36:30,140 Let go of me! 700 00:36:30,560 --> 00:36:32,300 Let go of me... 701 00:36:32,720 --> 00:36:34,140 Let go! 702 00:36:34,360 --> 00:36:36,820 Let go of me! 703 00:36:37,160 --> 00:36:39,740 Sister A-Xiang! 704 00:36:42,040 --> 00:36:43,736 Sister A-Xiang! 705 00:36:43,760 --> 00:36:48,456 Sister A-Xiang... 706 00:36:48,480 --> 00:36:49,736 Enough! 707 00:36:49,760 --> 00:36:51,460 Let go of me! 708 00:36:53,960 --> 00:36:55,780 Release her. 709 00:36:56,120 --> 00:36:58,176 Run! Do not come back! 710 00:36:58,200 --> 00:37:00,140 Sister A-Xiang! 711 00:37:16,920 --> 00:37:18,140 It is the middle of the night. 712 00:37:18,600 --> 00:37:19,776 Why are you knocking? 713 00:37:19,800 --> 00:37:20,936 My lord, 714 00:37:20,960 --> 00:37:22,980 you seemed distraught after returning, 715 00:37:23,480 --> 00:37:25,060 so I have been waiting outside your room. 716 00:37:25,440 --> 00:37:26,576 Just now, 717 00:37:26,600 --> 00:37:28,336 I heard shouting from inside, 718 00:37:28,360 --> 00:37:29,500 so I... 719 00:37:34,560 --> 00:37:36,300 Help me investigate someone. 720 00:37:57,040 --> 00:37:58,256 Your Majesty, 721 00:37:58,280 --> 00:37:59,416 I have watched Huiyin House for several months 722 00:37:59,440 --> 00:38:00,776 and found nothing unusual. 723 00:38:00,800 --> 00:38:02,176 Only occasionally, at the beginning of each month, 724 00:38:02,200 --> 00:38:03,296 the musicians take a convoy to the border 725 00:38:03,320 --> 00:38:04,940 to purchase daily supplies. 726 00:38:05,920 --> 00:38:07,176 Do you truly suspect 727 00:38:07,200 --> 00:38:08,576 that those highly trained assassins 728 00:38:08,600 --> 00:38:09,616 belong to Huiyin House? 729 00:38:09,640 --> 00:38:11,580 Whether my intuition is right 730 00:38:11,960 --> 00:38:13,380 will be revealed by a simple test. 731 00:38:25,200 --> 00:38:27,536 -Keep everything steady. -Certainly. 732 00:38:27,560 --> 00:38:29,456 Most of these musicians come from the common streets. 733 00:38:29,480 --> 00:38:30,416 It is hardly strange 734 00:38:30,440 --> 00:38:31,940 for them to know some martial arts. 735 00:38:33,720 --> 00:38:34,980 What is strange 736 00:38:35,360 --> 00:38:37,740 is that too many coincidences have come together. 737 00:38:41,000 --> 00:38:42,140 My lord. 738 00:38:42,440 --> 00:38:44,100 We found it. 739 00:38:54,200 --> 00:38:55,336 My lord, 740 00:38:55,360 --> 00:38:56,900 do you know this person? 741 00:39:42,840 --> 00:39:44,256 Our previous assassination failed 742 00:39:44,280 --> 00:39:46,576 because we underestimated that wretched emperor. 743 00:39:46,600 --> 00:39:48,736 Shen Zhishu and Huang Bo protect him openly, 744 00:39:48,760 --> 00:39:50,540 and he has secretly trained elite shadow guards. 745 00:39:50,840 --> 00:39:52,256 Master Shangguan has given the order. 746 00:39:52,280 --> 00:39:53,576 We have already alerted the enemy, 747 00:39:53,600 --> 00:39:55,096 so the assassination is suspended for now. 748 00:39:55,120 --> 00:39:56,620 But our great cause must not be abandoned. 749 00:39:56,960 --> 00:39:58,220 Understood. 750 00:39:58,440 --> 00:39:59,456 In this operation, 751 00:39:59,480 --> 00:40:01,180 we will proceed with the utmost caution. 752 00:40:08,920 --> 00:40:11,220 Young Master He, Young Master Shen. 753 00:40:13,640 --> 00:40:14,896 Miss Situ, only three days have passed, 754 00:40:14,920 --> 00:40:16,216 yet you look even more radiant. 755 00:40:16,240 --> 00:40:17,976 Today's makeup is like peach blossoms reflected in spring water, 756 00:40:18,000 --> 00:40:19,776 brilliant without being gaudy, pure and refined. 757 00:40:19,800 --> 00:40:21,056 Every time Young Master Shen sees me, 758 00:40:21,080 --> 00:40:22,456 his lavish compliments never stop 759 00:40:22,480 --> 00:40:23,736 and are never repeated. 760 00:40:23,760 --> 00:40:25,776 -How very thoughtful of you. -I saw several musicians 761 00:40:25,800 --> 00:40:27,896 with carriages prepared and in a great hurry. 762 00:40:27,920 --> 00:40:29,500 Is there some urgent matter? 763 00:40:29,960 --> 00:40:31,576 They are merely going to the border to purchase 764 00:40:31,600 --> 00:40:33,856 incense, fabrics, and other supplies for the house. 765 00:40:33,880 --> 00:40:35,376 It seems none of the capital's shops 766 00:40:35,400 --> 00:40:37,540 can satisfy the proprietress. 767 00:40:37,760 --> 00:40:38,976 You must mobilize such a large group 768 00:40:39,000 --> 00:40:40,216 just to shop at the border. 769 00:40:40,240 --> 00:40:41,736 To tell you the truth, 770 00:40:41,760 --> 00:40:43,856 Huiyin House consumes great quantities 771 00:40:43,880 --> 00:40:44,896 of incense and wood for instruments. 772 00:40:44,920 --> 00:40:46,376 The expense is considerable. 773 00:40:46,400 --> 00:40:48,336 Since Great Ning opened trade with Beijian, 774 00:40:48,360 --> 00:40:50,616 goods at the border have been excellent and fairly priced. 775 00:40:50,640 --> 00:40:51,856 I often send the musicians 776 00:40:51,880 --> 00:40:54,256 to purchase unusual items there 777 00:40:54,280 --> 00:40:55,416 to attract customers. 778 00:40:55,440 --> 00:40:57,780 You truly know how to run a business. 779 00:40:58,400 --> 00:40:59,816 No wonder Huiyin House 780 00:40:59,840 --> 00:41:01,856 has become the capital's foremost establishment, 781 00:41:01,880 --> 00:41:04,300 frequented by powerful officials and nobles. 782 00:41:05,000 --> 00:41:06,776 Gentlemen, please do not remain standing. 783 00:41:06,800 --> 00:41:08,540 Tea has been prepared in a private room. 784 00:41:09,240 --> 00:41:10,336 I will take you there. 785 00:41:10,360 --> 00:41:12,136 There is no hurry. 786 00:41:12,160 --> 00:41:13,896 I have not yet had the chance 787 00:41:13,920 --> 00:41:15,540 to properly look around the first floor. 788 00:41:17,520 --> 00:41:18,976 You little wretch. 789 00:41:19,000 --> 00:41:20,820 Were you so eager to see me?