1 00:01:26,280 --> 00:01:30,920 The Scholar and the Emperor 2 00:01:41,720 --> 00:01:42,600 Shopkeeper. 3 00:01:44,520 --> 00:01:46,520 I wonder how Proprietor Yan is doing. 4 00:01:47,080 --> 00:01:48,040 Shopkeeper, 5 00:01:48,120 --> 00:01:50,560 you may compete fiercely in business with Proprietor Yan, 6 00:01:50,640 --> 00:01:51,920 but you really do care about her. 7 00:01:53,120 --> 00:01:54,040 Business is business. 8 00:01:54,120 --> 00:01:56,800 But you saw how terrifying people on the Infinity Pill can become. 9 00:01:56,880 --> 00:01:58,840 Master Zhao and Old Madam Zhao 10 00:01:58,920 --> 00:02:00,360 are both gone now. 11 00:02:02,960 --> 00:02:04,520 For a woman like Proprietor Yan, 12 00:02:04,600 --> 00:02:05,960 making her way in the world alone is not easy. 13 00:02:06,800 --> 00:02:07,760 Fortunately, Lord Meng was there this time 14 00:02:07,840 --> 00:02:08,960 and managed to save her. 15 00:02:24,120 --> 00:02:25,240 My lord. 16 00:02:25,800 --> 00:02:26,800 Heaven has shown mercy. 17 00:02:27,720 --> 00:02:28,720 The poison in Miss Yan's body 18 00:02:28,800 --> 00:02:29,800 is gradually dissipating. 19 00:02:29,880 --> 00:02:32,560 With proper recuperation, she will be fine. 20 00:02:42,800 --> 00:02:44,000 Thank goodness you're all right. 21 00:02:45,760 --> 00:02:47,080 Thank goodness you're back. 22 00:03:00,920 --> 00:03:02,120 Mengmeng. 23 00:03:02,760 --> 00:03:03,600 Fuzhi. 24 00:03:07,400 --> 00:03:09,640 Did I hurt you? 25 00:03:15,840 --> 00:03:17,280 This is all my fault. 26 00:03:20,240 --> 00:03:22,480 I dragged you into all this trouble. 27 00:03:26,760 --> 00:03:27,640 I'm sorry. 28 00:03:40,800 --> 00:03:42,160 I'm sorry, Fuzhi. 29 00:03:51,520 --> 00:03:52,360 Don't cry. 30 00:04:40,320 --> 00:04:41,960 Thank you for coming so late, Your Majesty. 31 00:04:47,120 --> 00:04:48,520 Fuzhi is out of danger. 32 00:05:03,560 --> 00:05:04,800 Since she's fine, 33 00:05:06,640 --> 00:05:08,040 why are you still crying? 34 00:05:08,760 --> 00:05:09,600 I'm afraid. 35 00:05:12,560 --> 00:05:14,480 Afraid this is all another dream. 36 00:05:15,680 --> 00:05:17,720 Afraid something worse will happen again. 37 00:05:19,000 --> 00:05:20,640 I'm afraid that even if I give everything, 38 00:05:21,200 --> 00:05:23,240 I still can't protect those I love. 39 00:05:32,440 --> 00:05:33,720 These past days, 40 00:05:34,280 --> 00:05:36,600 watching you and Miss Yan face life and death together, 41 00:05:38,280 --> 00:05:39,760 I finally understood. 42 00:05:40,960 --> 00:05:42,600 Without the lights of countless homes 43 00:05:42,680 --> 00:05:43,920 in these ordinary streets, 44 00:05:44,520 --> 00:05:45,680 a realm stretching thousands of miles 45 00:05:46,240 --> 00:05:48,880 is nothing but cold lines on a map. 46 00:05:50,320 --> 00:05:51,560 But I'm afraid 47 00:05:54,280 --> 00:05:57,040 I can't even protect this one small light before me. 48 00:05:57,680 --> 00:05:59,800 The light you would die to protect 49 00:06:01,160 --> 00:06:03,000 is the realm I must protect. 50 00:06:03,840 --> 00:06:04,920 You protect it. 51 00:06:05,960 --> 00:06:07,000 I will protect you, 52 00:06:14,240 --> 00:06:16,040 and all the people of this realm. 53 00:06:29,840 --> 00:06:32,160 -Come out, Meng Tinghui! -Come out, Meng Tinghui! 54 00:06:32,240 --> 00:06:33,960 -Come out here! -Come out here! 55 00:06:34,040 --> 00:06:35,200 Stop hiding like a coward! 56 00:06:35,280 --> 00:06:36,200 Come out! 57 00:06:36,280 --> 00:06:37,440 Stop hiding like a coward! 58 00:06:38,440 --> 00:06:39,880 Meng Tinghui! 59 00:06:42,640 --> 00:06:43,800 Meng Tinghui! 60 00:06:47,560 --> 00:06:48,880 Don't move. Back away! 61 00:06:51,200 --> 00:06:52,320 Meng Tinghui! 62 00:06:53,200 --> 00:06:54,160 Calm down. 63 00:06:54,760 --> 00:06:56,640 My father and grandmother aren't even buried yet, 64 00:06:56,720 --> 00:06:58,840 and you dare hide in there? 65 00:06:58,920 --> 00:07:00,800 A birthday feast has become a funeral. 66 00:07:00,880 --> 00:07:02,240 They died with grievances unresolved. 67 00:07:03,040 --> 00:07:04,520 If I can't give them justice, 68 00:07:04,600 --> 00:07:05,840 how can I lay them to rest? 69 00:07:10,360 --> 00:07:13,000 How could you let Ling Yunfei escape? 70 00:07:13,840 --> 00:07:15,960 Today, it was my Zhao family. 71 00:07:16,480 --> 00:07:17,400 What about tomorrow? 72 00:07:17,480 --> 00:07:19,000 Are we supposed to live 73 00:07:19,080 --> 00:07:22,240 in fear and misery every day? 74 00:07:22,320 --> 00:07:25,440 -Exactly! -My son! 75 00:07:25,520 --> 00:07:28,240 You said you'd marry once you'd saved enough. 76 00:07:28,320 --> 00:07:30,120 Now I, an old mother, 77 00:07:30,200 --> 00:07:31,600 must bury my own son. 78 00:07:31,680 --> 00:07:34,240 How am I supposed to go on? 79 00:07:37,120 --> 00:07:39,760 You beasts living off the court! 80 00:07:39,840 --> 00:07:41,960 You don't care if commoners live or die! 81 00:07:42,040 --> 00:07:45,080 -Stone them! -Stone them! 82 00:07:47,480 --> 00:07:49,840 -Stone them! -Back away! 83 00:07:51,080 --> 00:07:52,040 And you still have the nerve to stop us! 84 00:08:01,360 --> 00:08:02,680 Yinqing. 85 00:08:03,280 --> 00:08:04,280 I'm fine, my lord. 86 00:08:06,560 --> 00:08:07,520 Everyone, 87 00:08:07,600 --> 00:08:08,760 everyone, 88 00:08:09,600 --> 00:08:11,280 I understand your pain and fear. 89 00:08:13,040 --> 00:08:14,120 I, Meng Tinghui, 90 00:08:14,640 --> 00:08:16,400 make this solemn pledge today: 91 00:08:16,960 --> 00:08:18,480 within ten days, 92 00:08:18,560 --> 00:08:19,840 I will eradicate the Infinity Pill, 93 00:08:19,920 --> 00:08:20,960 capture Ling Yunfei, 94 00:08:21,520 --> 00:08:22,800 and restore peace to the people. 95 00:08:23,600 --> 00:08:25,480 Ten days? Can she do it? 96 00:08:25,560 --> 00:08:26,400 Is she serious? 97 00:08:26,480 --> 00:08:28,320 My lord, please reconsider. 98 00:08:28,400 --> 00:08:29,680 Ten days is too short. 99 00:08:29,760 --> 00:08:31,400 A military pledge is no joke. 100 00:08:31,480 --> 00:08:32,480 You can't make one lightly. 101 00:08:32,560 --> 00:08:34,200 My mind is made up. 102 00:08:34,280 --> 00:08:35,280 I mean every word. 103 00:08:36,400 --> 00:08:38,280 Everyone here may bear witness. 104 00:08:39,320 --> 00:08:40,600 I give myself ten days. 105 00:08:40,680 --> 00:08:42,160 If I fail, 106 00:08:43,240 --> 00:08:44,680 I will surrender my office and become a commoner, 107 00:08:45,240 --> 00:08:46,480 and accept punishment under the law 108 00:08:47,240 --> 00:08:48,440 without complaint. 109 00:08:54,880 --> 00:08:56,000 Your Majesty, 110 00:08:56,080 --> 00:08:57,680 the Tiger's Roar Gang leader escaped, 111 00:08:57,760 --> 00:08:59,600 and the Infinity Pill is still missing. 112 00:08:59,680 --> 00:09:01,200 If he is allowed to return, 113 00:09:01,280 --> 00:09:03,160 the capital will suffer greatly. 114 00:09:03,240 --> 00:09:04,720 I impeach her today 115 00:09:04,800 --> 00:09:06,480 because public anger is boiling over. 116 00:09:06,560 --> 00:09:07,440 If it is not calmed, 117 00:09:07,520 --> 00:09:08,640 chaos may erupt. 118 00:09:09,320 --> 00:09:11,000 I implore Your Majesty 119 00:09:11,080 --> 00:09:12,840 to strip her of office and punish her, 120 00:09:13,320 --> 00:09:14,760 to reassure the people. 121 00:09:16,400 --> 00:09:17,360 Your Majesty, 122 00:09:17,440 --> 00:09:19,840 the Left Chancellor and I often disagree, 123 00:09:21,720 --> 00:09:22,960 but this time 124 00:09:23,040 --> 00:09:24,600 his words are sound. 125 00:09:24,680 --> 00:09:26,320 Ling Yunfei has thrown the capital into chaos 126 00:09:26,400 --> 00:09:27,880 all because of Meng Tinghui. 127 00:09:27,960 --> 00:09:29,640 Suspend her from office. 128 00:09:29,720 --> 00:09:31,040 It will calm the people, 129 00:09:31,120 --> 00:09:33,600 and force Ling Yunfei to stay his hand for now. 130 00:09:37,640 --> 00:09:38,520 Absurd! 131 00:09:38,600 --> 00:09:40,200 The Tiger's Roar Gang caused this, 132 00:09:40,760 --> 00:09:41,680 yet you want to punish 133 00:09:41,760 --> 00:09:43,400 the head of the Office of Public Inquiry? 134 00:09:43,480 --> 00:09:44,680 A mere bandit chief 135 00:09:44,760 --> 00:09:45,800 and a single poison pill 136 00:09:45,880 --> 00:09:48,120 have thrown my entire court into chaos. 137 00:09:48,200 --> 00:09:50,440 If an enemy invades one day, 138 00:09:51,120 --> 00:09:53,600 will you all rush to submit surrender petitions? 139 00:09:55,080 --> 00:09:55,960 Your Majesty. 140 00:09:56,560 --> 00:09:57,960 Your Majesty. 141 00:09:58,040 --> 00:09:58,960 I, Meng Tinghui, 142 00:09:59,840 --> 00:10:00,840 willingly accept punishment. 143 00:10:04,160 --> 00:10:05,240 The Infinity Pill case 144 00:10:05,840 --> 00:10:07,280 is the Tiger's Roar Gang's crime, 145 00:10:07,360 --> 00:10:08,760 but the Office of Public Inquiry bears responsibility, 146 00:10:08,840 --> 00:10:09,920 and I bear the greatest responsibility. 147 00:10:11,240 --> 00:10:13,080 I have made a military pledge to the people. 148 00:10:13,720 --> 00:10:14,760 Within ten days, 149 00:10:15,360 --> 00:10:17,040 if I fail to eradicate the Infinity Pill 150 00:10:17,120 --> 00:10:18,480 and capture Ling Yunfei, 151 00:10:19,000 --> 00:10:20,520 I will accept any punishment. 152 00:10:28,720 --> 00:10:29,720 Meng Tinghui, 153 00:10:30,280 --> 00:10:31,960 given your determination to catch the culprit, 154 00:10:32,040 --> 00:10:33,800 I grant you ten days. 155 00:10:33,880 --> 00:10:35,960 Your Majesty, Meng Tinghui's pledge 156 00:10:36,480 --> 00:10:37,640 merely fulfills her duty. 157 00:10:38,440 --> 00:10:40,240 The present situation 158 00:10:40,320 --> 00:10:41,960 was caused by her dereliction. 159 00:10:42,040 --> 00:10:43,320 Under the Laws of Daning, 160 00:10:43,400 --> 00:10:44,960 she should receive twenty strokes 161 00:10:45,040 --> 00:10:46,080 as a warning to others. 162 00:10:46,160 --> 00:10:47,320 Enough. 163 00:10:49,360 --> 00:10:51,960 Meng Tinghui has made her pledge. 164 00:10:53,040 --> 00:10:54,200 As court officials, 165 00:10:54,760 --> 00:10:56,960 instead of working together to suppress the bandits, 166 00:10:57,040 --> 00:10:59,600 you attack a colleague over street gossip. 167 00:10:59,680 --> 00:11:02,200 I think you deserve twenty strokes yourselves. 168 00:11:02,280 --> 00:11:03,320 Your Majesty. 169 00:11:04,200 --> 00:11:06,360 I saw the people's suffering with my own eyes. 170 00:11:07,120 --> 00:11:08,120 It pains me deeply. 171 00:11:08,920 --> 00:11:10,600 I will bear the twenty strokes alone 172 00:11:10,680 --> 00:11:12,200 to apologize to the people. 173 00:11:12,280 --> 00:11:13,120 -Your Majesty. -Your Majesty. 174 00:11:17,200 --> 00:11:18,080 -Your Majesty. -Your Majesty. 175 00:11:18,160 --> 00:11:21,280 -We will share Lord Meng's punishment. -We will share Lord Meng's punishment. 176 00:11:22,800 --> 00:11:24,280 I head the Office of Public Inquiry. 177 00:11:25,360 --> 00:11:26,720 I should bear it alone. 178 00:11:26,800 --> 00:11:28,800 I am its deputy. I share the responsibility. 179 00:11:28,880 --> 00:11:30,800 I serve there too. We stand together in hardship. 180 00:11:30,880 --> 00:11:32,920 The case remains unsolved. I cannot shirk my duty. 181 00:11:33,000 --> 00:11:33,840 I share the responsibility too. 182 00:12:41,240 --> 00:12:42,840 That must hurt terribly. 183 00:12:43,600 --> 00:12:44,880 You've been frail since childhood. 184 00:12:45,360 --> 00:12:47,080 Though they're only surface wounds, 185 00:12:47,160 --> 00:12:49,080 you still need proper rest and care. 186 00:12:49,760 --> 00:12:51,240 What I did this time 187 00:12:51,720 --> 00:12:53,120 wasn't a rash impulse. 188 00:12:53,200 --> 00:12:54,360 I understand. 189 00:12:56,000 --> 00:12:56,960 Back then, 190 00:12:57,480 --> 00:12:59,680 I placed seventeenth in the first class of the metropolitan examination. 191 00:13:00,160 --> 00:13:01,880 When I first entered the Hanlin Academy, 192 00:13:02,600 --> 00:13:05,040 I was just as full of youthful zeal. 193 00:13:06,520 --> 00:13:08,160 Then I met your father, 194 00:13:08,240 --> 00:13:09,680 became a wife and mother, 195 00:13:10,280 --> 00:13:11,560 and had no regrets. 196 00:13:12,560 --> 00:13:14,000 But today, 197 00:13:14,080 --> 00:13:16,160 seeing you stand with the Office of Public Inquiry, 198 00:13:17,280 --> 00:13:19,320 I saw my younger self in you. 199 00:13:20,160 --> 00:13:21,840 And compared with me, 200 00:13:21,920 --> 00:13:23,560 you have an even greater sense of duty. 201 00:13:25,520 --> 00:13:26,560 Mother. 202 00:13:26,640 --> 00:13:28,240 I'm truly proud of you. 203 00:13:29,560 --> 00:13:30,400 Mother. 204 00:13:32,320 --> 00:13:33,840 Because I've walked this road, 205 00:13:34,600 --> 00:13:36,520 I know how hard it is. 206 00:13:38,000 --> 00:13:39,960 I only did what I should. 207 00:13:41,880 --> 00:13:43,360 Precisely because the road ahead is hard, 208 00:13:44,120 --> 00:13:46,240 Lord Meng is all the more admirable. 209 00:13:46,920 --> 00:13:47,880 As a woman, 210 00:13:47,960 --> 00:13:49,400 she leads the Office of Public Inquiry 211 00:13:49,960 --> 00:13:51,280 and pledged before everyone. 212 00:13:52,000 --> 00:13:53,840 She is a model for all women. 213 00:13:54,920 --> 00:13:56,440 I need to recover quickly 214 00:13:56,520 --> 00:13:57,560 and go help her. 215 00:13:59,400 --> 00:14:00,440 My Li'er. 216 00:14:02,160 --> 00:14:03,480 You've truly grown up. 217 00:14:11,120 --> 00:14:12,120 I wonder 218 00:14:12,200 --> 00:14:13,920 how Brother and A-Nian's injuries are. 219 00:14:16,320 --> 00:14:17,400 Father. 220 00:14:17,480 --> 00:14:19,320 Why can Zhili eat in her room 221 00:14:19,400 --> 00:14:20,880 while I have to come to the hall? 222 00:14:20,960 --> 00:14:22,240 I only walked a few steps, 223 00:14:23,240 --> 00:14:24,200 and my back already hurts again. 224 00:14:24,280 --> 00:14:25,360 If it's too much, 225 00:14:25,440 --> 00:14:26,680 go back and rest. 226 00:14:27,240 --> 00:14:28,160 How could I? 227 00:14:28,640 --> 00:14:29,560 Pain is pain, 228 00:14:29,640 --> 00:14:30,880 but I still have to eat. 229 00:14:31,400 --> 00:14:33,560 Besides, Father cooked this himself. 230 00:14:33,640 --> 00:14:34,800 It'd be a shame not to eat it. 231 00:14:37,120 --> 00:14:37,960 Easy, Brother. 232 00:14:39,280 --> 00:14:40,840 They hit your back. 233 00:14:40,920 --> 00:14:43,000 Why? Does your rear hurt too? 234 00:14:43,080 --> 00:14:45,440 I took a full twenty strokes! 235 00:14:45,520 --> 00:14:47,280 It takes a hundred days for bone and sinew to heal. 236 00:14:47,360 --> 00:14:48,560 My back 237 00:14:48,640 --> 00:14:50,160 probably doesn't have a patch of good skin left. 238 00:14:52,200 --> 00:14:53,040 A-Nian, sit down. 239 00:14:53,120 --> 00:14:53,960 All right. 240 00:14:54,440 --> 00:14:55,320 Look at you. 241 00:14:56,280 --> 00:14:58,320 You've spent too long in pleasure houses, 242 00:14:58,400 --> 00:15:00,040 and your martial skills are getting rusty. 243 00:15:00,120 --> 00:15:01,080 You need more practice. 244 00:15:02,320 --> 00:15:03,280 Look at A-Nian. 245 00:15:03,880 --> 00:15:05,320 He took the same twenty strokes. 246 00:15:05,400 --> 00:15:07,000 When have you heard him complain? 247 00:15:07,560 --> 00:15:08,840 I'm used to rough treatment. 248 00:15:09,360 --> 00:15:10,280 Unlike Brother, 249 00:15:10,360 --> 00:15:13,080 who runs between Changle Street and the Office every day. 250 00:15:13,160 --> 00:15:14,520 It's exhausting enough. 251 00:15:14,600 --> 00:15:17,520 That's the responsibility a Shen man should have. 252 00:15:17,600 --> 00:15:19,760 Leading the Divine Guard at such a young age, 253 00:15:19,840 --> 00:15:21,120 charging into battle, 254 00:15:21,200 --> 00:15:22,560 yet attentive and caring at home. 255 00:15:23,280 --> 00:15:25,320 Well done. Come, drink. 256 00:15:25,400 --> 00:15:26,440 Thank you, Father. 257 00:15:29,640 --> 00:15:30,480 Father. 258 00:15:31,040 --> 00:15:33,080 Your fine Shen son here 259 00:15:33,640 --> 00:15:34,960 is tough as old leather. 260 00:15:35,040 --> 00:15:36,840 I can't compete with him in toughness. 261 00:15:38,360 --> 00:15:40,720 But I'm much stronger than Zhili. 262 00:15:40,800 --> 00:15:42,360 She still can't get out of bed. 263 00:15:43,200 --> 00:15:44,960 My son has really accomplished something. 264 00:15:45,040 --> 00:15:46,040 As her elder brother, 265 00:15:46,120 --> 00:15:47,440 you're actually comparing yourself to your sister? 266 00:15:47,520 --> 00:15:48,680 Aren't you ashamed? 267 00:15:52,480 --> 00:15:54,440 I wonder how Zhili's injuries are. 268 00:15:55,840 --> 00:15:57,280 Your mother is caring for her. 269 00:15:57,360 --> 00:15:58,200 She'll be fine. 270 00:15:58,280 --> 00:15:59,120 Eat. 271 00:15:59,200 --> 00:16:00,320 Grand Tutor. 272 00:16:01,200 --> 00:16:03,040 The tonics you asked for are ready. 273 00:16:03,800 --> 00:16:04,640 Father. 274 00:16:04,720 --> 00:16:06,240 Let me take them to Zhili. 275 00:16:07,120 --> 00:16:07,960 All right. 276 00:16:08,760 --> 00:16:10,000 Thank you, Father. 277 00:16:15,360 --> 00:16:16,600 A-Nian really is 278 00:16:16,680 --> 00:16:18,040 made of sturdy stuff. 279 00:16:19,840 --> 00:16:21,520 Father, look. 280 00:16:21,600 --> 00:16:22,800 My standing in this family 281 00:16:22,880 --> 00:16:24,040 is lower than dust. 282 00:16:24,120 --> 00:16:25,680 With all this good food and drink, 283 00:16:25,760 --> 00:16:27,080 you still can't keep your mouth shut? 284 00:16:27,160 --> 00:16:28,040 Just eat. 285 00:16:43,360 --> 00:16:44,200 Thank you, Father. 286 00:16:51,080 --> 00:16:51,920 Brat. 287 00:16:53,760 --> 00:16:54,960 Here. 288 00:17:17,040 --> 00:17:18,360 How did you get beaten this badly? 289 00:17:19,240 --> 00:17:21,480 Fuzhi, please don't cry. 290 00:17:22,240 --> 00:17:23,520 I've been hurt 291 00:17:24,280 --> 00:17:25,720 much worse than this before. 292 00:17:26,720 --> 00:17:28,200 I'll be fine in a couple of days. 293 00:17:30,880 --> 00:17:33,080 No matter how badly you were hurt before, 294 00:17:33,160 --> 00:17:34,600 you always smiled and said you were fine. 295 00:17:36,520 --> 00:17:38,480 Those learned male officials at court 296 00:17:39,080 --> 00:17:41,000 don't help you investigate the Tiger's Roar Gang, 297 00:17:41,080 --> 00:17:42,080 and they treat you like this? 298 00:17:42,160 --> 00:17:43,640 I'm going to ask His Majesty myself. 299 00:17:44,480 --> 00:17:45,960 You only want what's best for Daning. 300 00:17:46,040 --> 00:17:47,440 Why couldn't he protect you? 301 00:17:51,880 --> 00:17:53,720 Miss Yan was looking for me? 302 00:18:00,280 --> 00:18:01,200 Your Majesty. 303 00:18:01,280 --> 00:18:03,040 Mengmeng is my only family. 304 00:18:03,120 --> 00:18:04,240 All this way, 305 00:18:04,320 --> 00:18:06,160 she's been framed and bullied, 306 00:18:06,240 --> 00:18:07,880 humiliated and threatened, 307 00:18:07,960 --> 00:18:09,960 and nearly killed time and again. 308 00:18:10,040 --> 00:18:12,520 The people who targeted her were all vicious criminals. 309 00:18:12,600 --> 00:18:13,520 But this time, 310 00:18:13,600 --> 00:18:15,440 Your Majesty personally ordered her punished. 311 00:18:15,520 --> 00:18:17,960 -Fuzhi. -To give the officials an answer, 312 00:18:18,040 --> 00:18:20,840 so you used my Mengmeng as your weapon. 313 00:18:20,920 --> 00:18:23,240 But she's precious to me too. 314 00:18:23,320 --> 00:18:24,440 If after ten days 315 00:18:24,520 --> 00:18:25,960 she still hasn't solved it, 316 00:18:26,040 --> 00:18:28,280 I only ask Your Majesty to spare her life. 317 00:18:28,360 --> 00:18:29,280 Strip her of rank and make her a commoner. 318 00:18:29,360 --> 00:18:31,040 I'll take her back to Shazhou. 319 00:18:31,120 --> 00:18:32,200 From then on, 320 00:18:32,280 --> 00:18:34,440 I won't let anyone hurt her again. 321 00:18:34,520 --> 00:18:35,360 I've said what I came to say. 322 00:18:35,440 --> 00:18:36,880 Please punish me, Your Majesty. 323 00:18:38,720 --> 00:18:39,840 Miss Yan. 324 00:18:40,600 --> 00:18:41,640 I promise you. 325 00:18:42,800 --> 00:18:45,040 What you fear will not happen. 326 00:18:47,760 --> 00:18:49,320 Your Majesty's word is absolute. 327 00:18:49,880 --> 00:18:51,840 I'll remember it for Mengmeng. 328 00:18:56,560 --> 00:18:58,320 I won't disturb Your Majesty and Mengmeng. 329 00:19:11,120 --> 00:19:11,960 Your Majesty. 330 00:19:14,240 --> 00:19:15,080 Fuzhi 331 00:19:16,600 --> 00:19:18,200 is worried for my safety. 332 00:19:19,200 --> 00:19:20,480 Please don't blame her. 333 00:19:20,560 --> 00:19:21,520 She's right. 334 00:19:22,080 --> 00:19:23,320 This is my fault. 335 00:19:26,480 --> 00:19:27,960 I failed to protect you. 336 00:19:29,880 --> 00:19:31,640 I brought wound medicine sent as tribute from Beijian. 337 00:19:32,680 --> 00:19:34,520 It relieves pain and prevents scarring. 338 00:19:35,400 --> 00:19:36,400 I'll apply it for you. 339 00:19:42,800 --> 00:19:43,640 I... 340 00:19:45,760 --> 00:19:47,120 dare not trouble Your Majesty. 341 00:19:47,680 --> 00:19:49,800 You won't even let me do this small thing for you? 342 00:19:56,360 --> 00:19:57,240 It may sting at first. 343 00:19:57,880 --> 00:19:59,160 There may be a burning sensation. 344 00:20:01,040 --> 00:20:02,120 I'll be careful. 345 00:20:45,200 --> 00:20:47,200 This mark on your back 346 00:20:48,160 --> 00:20:49,240 is rather unusual. 347 00:20:49,320 --> 00:20:50,440 A mark? 348 00:20:52,480 --> 00:20:54,160 Which one do you mean, Your Majesty? 349 00:20:54,880 --> 00:20:57,000 I was beaten often as a child 350 00:20:57,680 --> 00:20:59,360 and have many scars. 351 00:21:00,080 --> 00:21:01,080 I don't remember them all. 352 00:21:02,880 --> 00:21:03,760 Your Majesty. 353 00:21:03,840 --> 00:21:05,920 The ten-day deadline is close. 354 00:21:06,000 --> 00:21:08,040 Perhaps only by finding the valley 355 00:21:08,880 --> 00:21:10,640 can we stop the Infinity Pill spreading. 356 00:21:11,560 --> 00:21:13,360 Tomorrow, I want to search the outskirts with Yinqing. 357 00:21:13,440 --> 00:21:14,320 Don't concern yourself with anything. 358 00:21:15,600 --> 00:21:17,360 I've ordered Huang Bo to find the valley. 359 00:21:18,440 --> 00:21:19,960 Your priority now 360 00:21:20,040 --> 00:21:21,800 is to rest and recover your strength. 361 00:21:22,560 --> 00:21:23,400 Otherwise, 362 00:21:24,000 --> 00:21:26,320 I may truly take away that official robe of yours. 363 00:21:29,000 --> 00:21:30,000 I obey. 364 00:21:40,440 --> 00:21:42,200 The Mystic Bird guards Zhongwan. 365 00:21:42,680 --> 00:21:44,920 Royal descendants bear a secret mark on the shoulder from childhood, 366 00:21:45,000 --> 00:21:46,240 which becomes clearer with age. 367 00:21:46,320 --> 00:21:47,640 Your Majesty saw it clearly. 368 00:21:47,720 --> 00:21:49,080 The mark on Lord Meng's shoulder 369 00:21:49,160 --> 00:21:50,640 is indeed the Mystic Bird totem. 370 00:21:50,720 --> 00:21:52,800 Though the mark overlaps with scars, 371 00:21:52,880 --> 00:21:53,800 it is unmistakable. 372 00:21:54,960 --> 00:21:56,320 I vaguely remember 373 00:21:56,400 --> 00:21:58,880 the Zhongwan royals Father executed 374 00:21:58,960 --> 00:22:00,320 also bore such a mark. 375 00:22:00,880 --> 00:22:02,360 But I was young then. 376 00:22:03,040 --> 00:22:04,200 As for what happened back then, 377 00:22:04,280 --> 00:22:06,320 only the Grand Tutor knows clearly. 378 00:22:06,400 --> 00:22:07,600 More than ten years ago, 379 00:22:07,680 --> 00:22:10,280 the Zhongwan royal house coveted Daning's riches 380 00:22:10,360 --> 00:22:11,480 and provoked us repeatedly. 381 00:22:12,040 --> 00:22:13,040 The late Emperor had enough 382 00:22:13,120 --> 00:22:14,240 and led the campaign himself. 383 00:22:14,800 --> 00:22:17,040 The Zhongwan royals resisted to the end, 384 00:22:17,120 --> 00:22:19,480 but were crushed by his iron hand. 385 00:22:19,560 --> 00:22:21,560 The four-year-old Zhongwan princess 386 00:22:21,640 --> 00:22:23,240 also died inside the palace. 387 00:22:23,880 --> 00:22:25,480 Only a band of death-sworn guards 388 00:22:25,560 --> 00:22:28,320 broke through with a general's son. 389 00:22:30,120 --> 00:22:31,360 Judging by their ages, 390 00:22:31,440 --> 00:22:33,440 Lord Meng and the Zhongwan princess would be the same age. 391 00:22:33,520 --> 00:22:35,480 But wasn't the Zhongwan princess dead? 392 00:22:35,560 --> 00:22:37,120 It now appears 393 00:22:37,200 --> 00:22:39,320 the dead princess may have been a decoy. 394 00:22:40,320 --> 00:22:42,000 Perhaps Zhongwan remnants 395 00:22:42,080 --> 00:22:43,320 wanted to restore their nation 396 00:22:43,400 --> 00:22:45,480 and preserve a line of royal blood. 397 00:22:46,320 --> 00:22:48,160 Huiyin House and the Blood Moon Society 398 00:22:48,240 --> 00:22:49,600 were already plotting a restoration. 399 00:22:49,680 --> 00:22:51,720 Situ Xue is also very close to Lord Meng. 400 00:22:52,400 --> 00:22:53,240 Perhaps 401 00:22:53,840 --> 00:22:56,280 Lord Meng is one of them, sent to infiltrate the court. 402 00:22:58,280 --> 00:23:00,240 Daning's ancestral law still states 403 00:23:00,320 --> 00:23:01,600 that Zhongwan survivors must live as slaves or servants 404 00:23:01,680 --> 00:23:02,920 and may never serve as court officials. 405 00:23:03,000 --> 00:23:04,480 The late Emperor enacted this to prevent 406 00:23:04,560 --> 00:23:07,400 traitors from disrupting the court and harming the people. 407 00:23:08,080 --> 00:23:10,920 Now a Zhongwan restoration is stirring in secret. 408 00:23:11,480 --> 00:23:12,760 Its royal bloodline 409 00:23:12,840 --> 00:23:15,120 must be eradicated completely. 410 00:23:15,760 --> 00:23:18,160 Grand Tutor, are you asking me to execute Lord Meng? 411 00:23:29,280 --> 00:23:32,280 I have long since retired. 412 00:23:32,360 --> 00:23:34,480 I should not interfere in court affairs. 413 00:23:34,560 --> 00:23:35,960 But Your Majesty and Meng Tinghui 414 00:23:36,040 --> 00:23:36,880 have grown exceedingly close. 415 00:23:36,960 --> 00:23:38,400 There is already criticism outside. 416 00:23:38,960 --> 00:23:39,920 I am deeply concerned. 417 00:23:40,720 --> 00:23:42,640 Please think carefully, Your Majesty. 418 00:23:42,720 --> 00:23:45,000 Be more cautious with Meng Tinghui, 419 00:23:45,080 --> 00:23:46,880 and remain vigilant 420 00:23:46,960 --> 00:23:49,360 against the Blood Moon Society. 421 00:23:49,440 --> 00:23:50,480 Only then 422 00:23:50,560 --> 00:23:51,920 can we guard against the unforeseen 423 00:23:52,000 --> 00:23:53,640 and keep the court stable. 424 00:23:55,680 --> 00:23:57,360 Father, don't worry. 425 00:23:57,440 --> 00:23:59,080 His Majesty already told me to watch Huiyin House 426 00:23:59,160 --> 00:24:00,520 and secretly investigate the Blood Moon Society. 427 00:24:01,080 --> 00:24:03,520 His Majesty would never put private feelings before public duty. 428 00:24:04,280 --> 00:24:06,840 Still, Lord Meng's identity 429 00:24:06,920 --> 00:24:08,640 truly warrants renewed scrutiny. 430 00:24:12,800 --> 00:24:14,680 This concerns an old feud between two states. 431 00:24:15,160 --> 00:24:16,520 I will not take it lightly 432 00:24:16,600 --> 00:24:17,600 or act on emotion. 433 00:24:18,320 --> 00:24:19,520 Meng Tinghui and the Office of Public Inquiry, 434 00:24:20,000 --> 00:24:21,320 I will consider everything carefully. 435 00:24:22,520 --> 00:24:23,680 Your Majesty is wise. 436 00:24:24,840 --> 00:24:26,360 Until there is a conclusion, 437 00:24:26,440 --> 00:24:28,120 we will keep this strictly secret. 438 00:24:28,200 --> 00:24:30,240 Zhishu, especially you. 439 00:24:32,080 --> 00:24:33,720 Father, I have enough self-control 440 00:24:33,800 --> 00:24:34,760 to know better. 441 00:25:08,320 --> 00:25:09,800 The Tiger's Roar Gang's storerooms, 442 00:25:09,880 --> 00:25:10,720 hidden cellars, 443 00:25:11,320 --> 00:25:12,400 even the caves behind the mountain 444 00:25:12,480 --> 00:25:13,400 have all been searched. 445 00:25:14,560 --> 00:25:16,200 Not a single Infinity Pill was found. 446 00:25:16,280 --> 00:25:18,560 And for dozens of miles around their stronghold, 447 00:25:18,640 --> 00:25:19,960 there is nothing but sand and stone. 448 00:25:20,040 --> 00:25:21,360 It cannot be where the poison is made. 449 00:25:21,440 --> 00:25:22,320 Logically, 450 00:25:22,400 --> 00:25:23,680 Ling Yunfei is badly wounded. 451 00:25:24,240 --> 00:25:25,640 If he doesn't want to bleed to death, 452 00:25:25,720 --> 00:25:26,960 his hiding place 453 00:25:27,040 --> 00:25:28,280 shouldn't be far from the capital. 454 00:25:29,600 --> 00:25:31,960 A-Nian, you searched the valleys outside the capital. 455 00:25:32,440 --> 00:25:34,440 Did you truly find no clues at all? 456 00:25:35,200 --> 00:25:36,720 We searched seventeen valleys. 457 00:25:37,200 --> 00:25:39,320 Each was compared with the painting. 458 00:25:39,400 --> 00:25:40,840 Huang Bo has led the Divine Guard 459 00:25:40,920 --> 00:25:42,160 deep into the miasma forest. 460 00:25:42,240 --> 00:25:43,840 No word has come back yet. 461 00:25:44,520 --> 00:25:47,120 Though the gang's stronghold is destroyed, 462 00:25:47,200 --> 00:25:48,720 as long as Ling Yunfei lives, 463 00:25:48,800 --> 00:25:50,480 given that madman's nature, 464 00:25:50,560 --> 00:25:52,800 he will plot an even crueler revenge. 465 00:25:55,880 --> 00:25:56,960 My lord. 466 00:25:57,040 --> 00:25:57,880 Your wounds... 467 00:25:58,880 --> 00:26:00,200 I'm fine. 468 00:26:00,280 --> 00:26:02,240 Zhili, draft a memorial now. 469 00:26:02,320 --> 00:26:03,880 Ask His Majesty for reinforcements. 470 00:26:03,960 --> 00:26:06,040 We must find where the poison is made as soon as possible. 471 00:26:06,600 --> 00:26:07,520 Otherwise, 472 00:26:08,600 --> 00:26:09,680 the consequences are unthinkable. 473 00:27:45,200 --> 00:27:46,800 Lock the chains tighter. 474 00:27:46,880 --> 00:27:47,720 Yes. 475 00:27:52,600 --> 00:27:53,440 Chief. 476 00:27:54,000 --> 00:27:55,160 As you ordered, 477 00:27:55,240 --> 00:27:56,440 the dose of Fuqing Grass 478 00:27:56,520 --> 00:27:57,400 has been tripled. 479 00:27:59,760 --> 00:28:02,320 What an intoxicating fragrance. 480 00:28:05,880 --> 00:28:07,080 But it is still not enough. 481 00:28:07,160 --> 00:28:08,280 Increase the dose. 482 00:28:08,360 --> 00:28:09,320 Within ten days, 483 00:28:09,400 --> 00:28:11,560 harvest every stalk of Fuqing Grass in Wangxian Valley. 484 00:28:11,640 --> 00:28:12,560 This time, 485 00:28:13,440 --> 00:28:14,680 either Meng Tinghui dies, 486 00:28:14,760 --> 00:28:16,480 or I, Ling Yunfei, do. 487 00:28:16,560 --> 00:28:18,600 Then you should prepare your funeral. 488 00:28:19,760 --> 00:28:22,080 Mr. Shangguan honors us with a visit. 489 00:28:23,000 --> 00:28:24,680 It seems you've finally lost patience. 490 00:28:24,760 --> 00:28:26,360 To get revenge on Meng Tinghui, 491 00:28:26,880 --> 00:28:29,480 you spread the Infinity Pill at Bofeng Tavern. 492 00:28:29,560 --> 00:28:31,360 Now the whole city is under lockdown. 493 00:28:31,440 --> 00:28:33,800 Do you intend to ruin our business with your own hands? 494 00:28:34,280 --> 00:28:36,200 You hide in the shadows all day 495 00:28:36,280 --> 00:28:37,680 to make petty profits. 496 00:28:38,960 --> 00:28:40,280 Is that 497 00:28:40,360 --> 00:28:41,920 all you cowards aspire to? 498 00:28:42,000 --> 00:28:43,120 Listen carefully. 499 00:28:43,640 --> 00:28:45,880 If you dare trouble Meng Tinghui again, 500 00:28:45,960 --> 00:28:47,960 I don't mind sending you to your grave first. 501 00:28:48,520 --> 00:28:50,840 What exactly is your relationship with Meng Tinghui? 502 00:28:51,760 --> 00:28:53,040 Every other sentence is about her, 503 00:28:53,800 --> 00:28:55,240 and you protect her at every turn. 504 00:28:55,320 --> 00:28:56,800 Our business 505 00:28:57,480 --> 00:28:58,320 together 506 00:28:59,000 --> 00:29:00,240 ends here. 507 00:29:11,200 --> 00:29:12,920 You think I'll just sit and wait to die? 508 00:29:13,000 --> 00:29:16,320 Look. This is the Infinity Pill's true power. 509 00:29:16,960 --> 00:29:18,520 I'll use an army of poisoned men 510 00:29:18,600 --> 00:29:20,280 to bathe the capital in blood. 511 00:29:20,360 --> 00:29:21,840 Meng Tinghui, prepare to die. 512 00:29:31,560 --> 00:29:34,200 (Bofeng Tavern Temporary Closure Notice) 513 00:29:40,600 --> 00:29:41,680 I wanted to save enough silver 514 00:29:41,760 --> 00:29:43,000 to buy a large house. 515 00:29:43,480 --> 00:29:44,320 The two of us 516 00:29:44,400 --> 00:29:45,640 could live comfortably there. 517 00:29:47,320 --> 00:29:48,400 Now I've lost everything. 518 00:29:51,640 --> 00:29:53,880 I snatched my life back from death 519 00:29:53,960 --> 00:29:55,200 thanks to you, Mengmeng. 520 00:29:57,320 --> 00:29:58,880 It was thanks to Lord Shen. 521 00:29:58,960 --> 00:30:00,520 To get medicine for you, 522 00:30:00,600 --> 00:30:02,560 he even pawned the jade pendant gifted by the late Emperor. 523 00:30:03,920 --> 00:30:07,120 His Majesty knew he was saving a life and did not punish him. 524 00:30:07,920 --> 00:30:09,320 But Zhili told me 525 00:30:09,400 --> 00:30:12,960 Grand Tutor Shen made him kneel in the ancestral hall for three days. 526 00:30:16,400 --> 00:30:17,600 He truly cares about you. 527 00:30:21,920 --> 00:30:23,320 After narrowly escaping death, 528 00:30:24,000 --> 00:30:25,400 I realized wealth is easy to find, 529 00:30:25,480 --> 00:30:26,520 but a true friend is rare. 530 00:30:26,600 --> 00:30:28,200 Since you all gave everything for me, 531 00:30:29,120 --> 00:30:30,160 I should live well. 532 00:30:32,960 --> 00:30:34,800 Bofeng Tavern will close for two months. 533 00:30:34,880 --> 00:30:36,600 I'll create more new dishes 534 00:30:36,680 --> 00:30:38,120 so when we reopen, 535 00:30:38,200 --> 00:30:40,240 the capital's diners will be amazed. 536 00:30:42,160 --> 00:30:43,760 But you're not fully recovered. 537 00:30:43,840 --> 00:30:45,000 Bofeng Tavern still isn't safe. 538 00:30:45,080 --> 00:30:46,880 Stay at the Office for now. 539 00:30:46,960 --> 00:30:47,920 I'll be there to look after you. 540 00:30:48,000 --> 00:30:48,920 You... 541 00:30:49,000 --> 00:30:51,960 You've been buried in chasing Ling Yunfei. How could you possibly look after me? 542 00:30:52,040 --> 00:30:53,920 The military pledge deadline is near, 543 00:30:54,880 --> 00:30:56,280 but every lead on Ling Yunfei is gone. 544 00:30:56,360 --> 00:30:58,400 The Light Riders have searched for days, 545 00:30:58,480 --> 00:30:59,720 yet no one has reported back. 546 00:31:00,520 --> 00:31:02,760 Even His Majesty hasn't come to the Office for days. 547 00:31:03,480 --> 00:31:05,040 Something feels strange. 548 00:31:06,640 --> 00:31:07,480 All right. 549 00:31:07,560 --> 00:31:09,240 Enough thinking. Let's go out. 550 00:31:18,040 --> 00:31:19,160 -Yinqing. -Lord Meng. 551 00:31:19,680 --> 00:31:21,800 -Proprietor Yan. -You went to Huiyin House. 552 00:31:21,880 --> 00:31:23,600 Mistress Situ often travels to the frontier. 553 00:31:23,680 --> 00:31:26,080 She has rare medicines, candles, and incense not found in the capital. 554 00:31:26,880 --> 00:31:29,040 Proprietor Yan has only just recovered and needs to rebuild her strength. 555 00:31:29,120 --> 00:31:30,280 Thank you for taking the trouble. 556 00:31:31,520 --> 00:31:34,160 Any progress from Commandant Di's search of the valleys? 557 00:31:34,240 --> 00:31:37,280 Why has not a single message reached the Office from the Light Riders? 558 00:31:37,360 --> 00:31:39,560 His Majesty personally deployed the Divine Guard. 559 00:31:39,640 --> 00:31:40,680 All intelligence 560 00:31:41,280 --> 00:31:42,720 is reported directly to the throne. 561 00:31:44,520 --> 00:31:45,760 But I did hear some good news. 562 00:31:45,840 --> 00:31:46,840 I happened to hear 563 00:31:46,920 --> 00:31:48,520 the Light Riders found a valley 564 00:31:49,120 --> 00:31:50,680 somewhat like the one in the painting. 565 00:31:51,480 --> 00:31:53,440 But the memorial you submitted 566 00:31:53,520 --> 00:31:54,960 requesting reinforcements 567 00:31:55,520 --> 00:31:56,640 still has not been approved. 568 00:31:58,760 --> 00:32:01,320 The Divine Guard should assist the Office in its investigations. 569 00:32:01,840 --> 00:32:03,480 Yet now they are bypassing me. 570 00:32:04,040 --> 00:32:05,080 Lend me this candle. 571 00:32:06,320 --> 00:32:08,160 Your Majesty, the Light Rider units report 572 00:32:08,240 --> 00:32:09,680 that Huang Bo disappeared 573 00:32:09,760 --> 00:32:11,840 at the last valley still unsearched, 574 00:32:11,920 --> 00:32:12,840 Wangxian Valley. 575 00:32:12,920 --> 00:32:14,360 The terrain there is treacherous, 576 00:32:14,440 --> 00:32:15,640 and mist shrouds it year-round, 577 00:32:15,720 --> 00:32:16,560 obscuring all visibility. 578 00:32:16,640 --> 00:32:17,960 At the valley entrance, the Light Riders 579 00:32:18,040 --> 00:32:19,320 found Huang Bo's dagger. 580 00:32:19,880 --> 00:32:21,760 Huang Bo never loses anything he carries. 581 00:32:22,320 --> 00:32:23,640 Could something have happened to him? 582 00:32:23,720 --> 00:32:25,160 Take the Light Riders and search the mountain at once. 583 00:32:25,240 --> 00:32:26,880 Should we inform Lord Meng? 584 00:32:27,800 --> 00:32:28,880 As for this valley, 585 00:32:28,960 --> 00:32:30,920 we have no proof yet that Fuqing Grass grows there. 586 00:32:31,000 --> 00:32:32,160 Do not alarm her for now. 587 00:32:32,720 --> 00:32:34,880 -Investigate it thoroughly first. -I understand. 588 00:32:34,960 --> 00:32:37,360 Your Majesty, this old servant has sinned! 589 00:32:37,920 --> 00:32:38,840 Not again. 590 00:32:39,560 --> 00:32:41,240 With Huang Bo away these past few days, 591 00:32:41,320 --> 00:32:43,480 he has nagged my ears raw. 592 00:32:44,200 --> 00:32:45,120 Go help me 593 00:32:45,200 --> 00:32:46,400 stop Chief Steward You before you leave. 594 00:32:47,480 --> 00:32:48,320 Yes. 595 00:32:54,160 --> 00:32:56,720 Your Majesty personally risked yourself at the Tiger's Roar Gang. 596 00:32:56,800 --> 00:32:59,560 This old servant fears for your safety. 597 00:32:59,640 --> 00:33:01,000 Every day my heart 598 00:33:01,080 --> 00:33:03,360 is in my throat. 599 00:33:03,440 --> 00:33:05,640 I have failed the late Emperor. 600 00:33:06,320 --> 00:33:07,320 Commandant Di, 601 00:33:07,400 --> 00:33:08,640 lend me your sword. 602 00:33:08,720 --> 00:33:10,840 I'll go meet the late Emperor first! 603 00:33:22,040 --> 00:33:25,320 Commandant Di, I was beside myself. 604 00:33:25,880 --> 00:33:28,520 His Majesty has stayed up late reviewing memorials. 605 00:33:29,000 --> 00:33:31,960 It seems he caught a chill. 606 00:33:32,040 --> 00:33:34,320 The physician prescribed this remedy. 607 00:33:34,880 --> 00:33:36,240 Your Majesty, 608 00:33:36,320 --> 00:33:38,280 you must take care of yourself. 609 00:33:39,120 --> 00:33:40,360 -Your Maj... -Go back. 610 00:33:42,960 --> 00:33:44,000 Your Majesty. 611 00:33:44,080 --> 00:33:46,360 You must take good care of yourself. 612 00:33:46,440 --> 00:33:47,560 Your Majesty. 613 00:33:47,640 --> 00:33:48,640 Your Majesty. 614 00:34:00,200 --> 00:34:01,720 Can you stop bothering me? 615 00:34:06,160 --> 00:34:07,960 So Your Majesty finds me bothersome. 616 00:34:08,040 --> 00:34:09,840 Is that why you haven't visited the Office lately? 617 00:34:09,920 --> 00:34:11,640 I thought it was Chief Steward You. 618 00:34:12,280 --> 00:34:13,920 This is from Huiyin House. 619 00:34:14,520 --> 00:34:16,160 Miss Situ specially blended it. 620 00:34:16,240 --> 00:34:18,040 She said it calms the mind and restores the spirit. 621 00:34:18,120 --> 00:34:20,960 You've exhausted yourself lately over the Infinity Pill. 622 00:34:21,720 --> 00:34:22,560 You should try it. 623 00:34:22,640 --> 00:34:24,360 You came here specifically today 624 00:34:25,040 --> 00:34:26,200 not just to bring this gift, did you? 625 00:34:26,760 --> 00:34:28,040 The memorial I submitted 626 00:34:28,120 --> 00:34:30,200 requesting more staff for the Office 627 00:34:30,800 --> 00:34:31,920 has yet to receive imperial approval. 628 00:34:37,320 --> 00:34:38,360 This drawing... 629 00:34:39,600 --> 00:34:40,440 do you recognize it? 630 00:34:48,800 --> 00:34:49,760 I do not. 631 00:34:49,840 --> 00:34:52,200 This is the Heaven-ordained Mystic Bird revered in Zhongwan. 632 00:34:52,840 --> 00:34:54,480 It is said to foretell good and ill 633 00:34:54,560 --> 00:34:56,000 and protect the nation's destiny. 634 00:34:56,080 --> 00:34:58,400 Later, Zhongwan submitted to Daning. 635 00:34:58,480 --> 00:35:01,200 Do you think Daning's policy toward Zhongwan survivors 636 00:35:01,280 --> 00:35:02,280 should be reformed? 637 00:35:02,360 --> 00:35:03,520 Your Majesty. 638 00:35:04,480 --> 00:35:07,040 I've only read about Zhongwan's past in historical texts. 639 00:35:08,200 --> 00:35:09,400 I don't know what truly happened. 640 00:35:13,640 --> 00:35:15,080 Miss Yan only just escaped danger. 641 00:35:15,800 --> 00:35:17,160 I don't want you risking yourself again. 642 00:35:17,840 --> 00:35:20,200 I have decided on another plan. 643 00:35:20,280 --> 00:35:22,520 -The Office should leave this case. -Your Majesty. 644 00:35:22,600 --> 00:35:24,600 I know the difference between public and private. 645 00:35:24,680 --> 00:35:25,920 What happened to Fuzhi 646 00:35:26,000 --> 00:35:27,280 torments me day and night. 647 00:35:27,360 --> 00:35:29,160 Even if I do harbor selfish motives, 648 00:35:29,240 --> 00:35:30,560 so what? 649 00:35:30,640 --> 00:35:31,800 The Ling Yunfei case 650 00:35:31,880 --> 00:35:34,000 has been pursued by the Office all along, 651 00:35:34,080 --> 00:35:35,760 and I am the best person for it. 652 00:35:35,840 --> 00:35:37,200 Please withdraw your order. 653 00:35:37,280 --> 00:35:39,360 Ling Yunfei will not stop pursuing you. 654 00:35:39,440 --> 00:35:40,640 I am worried for your safety. 655 00:35:40,720 --> 00:35:42,480 Take some time to rest. 656 00:35:43,040 --> 00:35:44,560 Consider that my own selfishness. 657 00:35:46,240 --> 00:35:47,400 I feel Your Majesty 658 00:35:47,480 --> 00:35:49,120 has been acting strangely lately. 659 00:35:49,200 --> 00:35:50,800 Are you hiding something from me? 660 00:35:50,880 --> 00:35:51,920 Do not overthink it. 661 00:35:52,440 --> 00:35:53,880 Follow my decree. 662 00:35:59,800 --> 00:36:02,120 Your Majesty, of all the court officials, 663 00:36:02,200 --> 00:36:03,920 who knows Ling Yunfei better than the Office? 664 00:36:04,000 --> 00:36:05,560 If Your Majesty is worried about me, 665 00:36:06,160 --> 00:36:07,640 you may send people with me. 666 00:36:08,360 --> 00:36:10,680 But if the Office is forced off this case, 667 00:36:10,760 --> 00:36:12,080 then I will go myself. 668 00:36:13,480 --> 00:36:14,600 If Your Majesty does not trust me, 669 00:36:15,600 --> 00:36:17,320 I need not wait for your decree. 670 00:36:19,160 --> 00:36:21,040 I already know where Wangxian Valley is. 671 00:36:21,120 --> 00:36:23,000 From the day we met, 672 00:36:24,120 --> 00:36:25,920 I knew this was your nature. 673 00:36:32,520 --> 00:36:33,720 I trust you. 674 00:36:34,720 --> 00:36:36,120 But that means allowing you to place yourself in danger. 675 00:36:37,360 --> 00:36:39,480 I want this realm kept safe, 676 00:36:39,560 --> 00:36:40,520 but I also want you, Meng Tinghui, 677 00:36:40,600 --> 00:36:42,480 to return safe and whole. 678 00:36:43,440 --> 00:36:44,800 Wangxian Valley's terrain is complex. 679 00:36:45,480 --> 00:36:47,120 I will go with you. 680 00:37:25,840 --> 00:37:26,760 You're awake. 681 00:37:28,080 --> 00:37:29,600 Thank goodness. 682 00:37:29,680 --> 00:37:31,520 I was afraid you'd keep sleeping forever. 683 00:37:33,800 --> 00:37:35,040 Don't move. 684 00:37:40,320 --> 00:37:42,040 I'm only listening to your heartbeat, 685 00:37:42,120 --> 00:37:43,800 to see how well you're recovering. 686 00:37:51,840 --> 00:37:52,680 After taking my medicine, 687 00:37:52,760 --> 00:37:54,200 the snake venom is gone. 688 00:37:55,240 --> 00:37:56,360 However, 689 00:37:56,440 --> 00:37:59,320 your injured leg needs a few more days of rest. 690 00:37:59,400 --> 00:38:00,840 Be good these next few days. 691 00:38:00,920 --> 00:38:02,480 Don't rush out and run around. 692 00:38:32,120 --> 00:38:33,600 Thank you for saving my life, miss. 693 00:38:33,680 --> 00:38:34,920 You're welcome. 694 00:38:35,000 --> 00:38:37,840 I'm A-Luo, a resident of Wangxian Valley. 695 00:38:38,560 --> 00:38:39,400 You... 696 00:38:40,280 --> 00:38:41,280 what is your name? 697 00:38:42,560 --> 00:38:44,040 My name is Huang Bo. 698 00:38:44,600 --> 00:38:45,560 Huang Bo. 699 00:38:58,000 --> 00:38:58,840 Miss A-Luo. 700 00:38:59,800 --> 00:39:00,640 Let me help you. 701 00:39:00,720 --> 00:39:01,760 Your leg hasn't healed yet. 702 00:39:01,840 --> 00:39:02,800 Don't move around. 703 00:39:06,200 --> 00:39:07,120 Old Huang! 704 00:39:07,400 --> 00:39:08,240 Old Huang! 705 00:39:09,920 --> 00:39:10,760 Young Master. 706 00:39:10,840 --> 00:39:11,680 Careful. 707 00:39:12,960 --> 00:39:13,840 How did you all get here? 708 00:39:19,640 --> 00:39:20,600 Miss A-Luo. 709 00:39:20,680 --> 00:39:21,920 There are so many of us, 710 00:39:22,000 --> 00:39:23,160 and we came to stay at your home without warning. 711 00:39:23,240 --> 00:39:24,200 I'm sorry to impose. 712 00:39:24,280 --> 00:39:25,520 Not at all. 713 00:39:25,600 --> 00:39:27,640 Few outsiders ever come here. 714 00:39:27,720 --> 00:39:29,480 It's rare for my home to be this lively. 715 00:39:29,560 --> 00:39:30,920 Besides, 716 00:39:31,000 --> 00:39:32,720 you're all so handsome, 717 00:39:33,280 --> 00:39:34,920 and dressed much better than we are. 718 00:39:43,600 --> 00:39:44,800 Miss A-Luo. 719 00:39:44,880 --> 00:39:46,800 The scenery shown in this painting, 720 00:39:46,880 --> 00:39:48,480 is it somewhere inside the valley? 721 00:39:49,040 --> 00:39:51,240 Our peaks are beautiful, 722 00:39:51,320 --> 00:39:52,360 wrapped in clouds and mist. 723 00:39:52,440 --> 00:39:55,080 From the valley floor, it looks like an immortal realm. 724 00:39:55,640 --> 00:39:58,440 The scenery in this painting 725 00:39:59,280 --> 00:40:02,160 does indeed resemble our valley. 726 00:40:02,240 --> 00:40:03,200 Then, Miss A-Luo, 727 00:40:03,720 --> 00:40:05,360 -do you know of a kind of... -Miss A-Luo. 728 00:40:06,280 --> 00:40:07,320 I see your courtyard 729 00:40:07,400 --> 00:40:09,960 is full of flowers. What are they used for? 730 00:40:10,040 --> 00:40:12,320 Tomorrow is our valley's Flower Festival. 731 00:40:12,400 --> 00:40:14,600 I'm preparing flower cakes for the celebration. 732 00:40:15,160 --> 00:40:16,240 Make yourselves comfortable. 733 00:40:16,320 --> 00:40:17,400 Have a good chat. 734 00:40:17,480 --> 00:40:18,360 If you need anything, 735 00:40:18,440 --> 00:40:19,400 just call me. 736 00:40:27,280 --> 00:40:28,480 Lord Meng. 737 00:40:28,560 --> 00:40:30,640 I was about to ask where the Fuqing Grass is. 738 00:40:30,720 --> 00:40:32,320 Why did you stop me?