1
00:01:31,640 --> 00:01:32,700
=The Road to Splendor=

2
00:01:32,700 --> 00:01:34,760
(Adapted from China Literature author
Zhizhi's novel of the same name)

3
00:01:35,200 --> 00:01:37,960
=Episode 8=

4
00:01:38,920 --> 00:01:40,719
You don't have to go this far.

5
00:01:42,840 --> 00:01:43,840
Wasn't the whole point today

6
00:01:45,280 --> 00:01:46,519
to get people talking?

7
00:01:49,560 --> 00:01:52,480
We've already put on enough of a show

8
00:01:52,840 --> 00:01:54,040
for everyone watching.

9
00:01:57,239 --> 00:01:58,239
What about you?

10
00:01:59,400 --> 00:02:00,959
Did she tell you
what she's been daydreaming about?

11
00:02:02,079 --> 00:02:03,680
I know what she wants now.

12
00:02:04,239 --> 00:02:05,120
Madam Wei,

13
00:02:05,280 --> 00:02:06,680
(Longevity)
I heard

14
00:02:06,680 --> 00:02:08,439
you obtained a rare set
of Pai Gow tiles.

15
00:02:08,759 --> 00:02:10,120
This set of Pai Gow tiles

16
00:02:10,280 --> 00:02:12,400
was crafted
by a master artisan in Yunze.

17
00:02:12,400 --> 00:02:13,199
I acquired it from him.

18
00:02:13,599 --> 00:02:15,560
Its tiles are carved from premium ivory

19
00:02:15,800 --> 00:02:16,960
with exquisite workmanship.

20
00:02:17,199 --> 00:02:18,479
Every pattern on them

21
00:02:18,719 --> 00:02:20,840
is inlaid with fine gold thread.

22
00:02:21,199 --> 00:02:23,680
Thanks to Madam Wei's reminder just now,

23
00:02:24,639 --> 00:02:25,919
it brought a dream to mind.

24
00:02:26,000 --> 00:02:27,479
Once I dreamed of a set of Pai Gow

25
00:02:27,479 --> 00:02:28,879
just like this one.

26
00:02:29,159 --> 00:02:30,719
Ivory base with gold-thread inlay.

27
00:02:31,280 --> 00:02:32,639
It matches exactly

28
00:02:32,840 --> 00:02:33,960
what Madam Wei described.

29
00:02:35,319 --> 00:02:36,560
When we meet the Sixteenth Master later,

30
00:02:37,840 --> 00:02:38,840
think carefully what to say.

31
00:02:39,599 --> 00:02:40,800
There's one thing I fail to understand.

32
00:02:40,919 --> 00:02:41,879
When seeking bribes,

33
00:02:41,879 --> 00:02:43,199
silver and gold suffice.

34
00:02:43,400 --> 00:02:45,520
Why hunt for rare curios instead?

35
00:02:46,080 --> 00:02:47,120
From what you told me,

36
00:02:47,120 --> 00:02:48,560
this Pai Gow is Madam Wei's

37
00:02:48,560 --> 00:02:49,520
most cherished treasure.

38
00:02:49,719 --> 00:02:50,520
I fear

39
00:02:50,639 --> 00:02:51,840
she will not bear to part with it.

40
00:02:52,039 --> 00:02:54,159
Madam Yan cares deeply for rare curios

41
00:02:54,159 --> 00:02:55,360
for a particular reason.

42
00:02:55,840 --> 00:02:57,240
She has only three daughters

43
00:02:57,240 --> 00:02:58,479
and no sons

44
00:02:58,599 --> 00:03:00,479
to carry on the family legacy.

45
00:03:01,479 --> 00:03:02,919
Those precious artifacts

46
00:03:03,039 --> 00:03:05,280
are meant to be dowries

47
00:03:05,280 --> 00:03:06,919
for her girls' weddings.

48
00:03:08,639 --> 00:03:11,840
Lord Yan holds a vital role
in salt transport.

49
00:03:12,280 --> 00:03:14,120
He ought to act with great caution.

50
00:03:14,599 --> 00:03:17,639
Yet his wife openly takes bribes,

51
00:03:18,000 --> 00:03:20,159
a sign that the couple
has long been at odds.

52
00:03:22,039 --> 00:03:23,599
The one the Sixteenth Master picked

53
00:03:23,960 --> 00:03:25,400
is truly sharp-witted.

54
00:03:28,479 --> 00:03:29,439
Then what shall we do

55
00:03:29,560 --> 00:03:31,120
to get started?

56
00:03:39,280 --> 00:03:41,000
Since Madam Wei holds the key,

57
00:03:43,479 --> 00:03:44,840
let me take this matter in hand.

58
00:03:45,639 --> 00:03:47,199
I have long been acquainted with her.

59
00:03:47,199 --> 00:03:49,199
And I can grasp
her inclinations well enough.

60
00:03:49,639 --> 00:03:51,599
I may mediate between the sides.

61
00:03:51,719 --> 00:03:52,280
Very well.

62
00:03:52,759 --> 00:03:55,360
I shall leave this task to you,
Madam Yu.

63
00:04:03,000 --> 00:04:04,080
Is this the Pai Gow

64
00:04:04,080 --> 00:04:06,520
you just acquired?

65
00:04:06,800 --> 00:04:09,120
We finally get to lay eyes on it today.

66
00:04:09,479 --> 00:04:10,960
I thought we played just yesterday

67
00:04:10,960 --> 00:04:11,919
and now again today.

68
00:04:12,000 --> 00:04:14,000
How can you be so fond of Pai Gow?

69
00:04:14,919 --> 00:04:16,680
It's truly a treasure, isn't it?

70
00:04:17,240 --> 00:04:18,800
It feels cool to the touch

71
00:04:18,959 --> 00:04:20,720
and the gold-thread inlay work
is exquisite.

72
00:04:21,040 --> 00:04:22,600
The feel is utterly unique.

73
00:04:23,279 --> 00:04:24,439
Why don't we

74
00:04:25,439 --> 00:04:26,759
just start playing?

75
00:04:27,360 --> 00:04:28,480
Let's play.

76
00:04:28,720 --> 00:04:29,759
Come on.

77
00:04:30,120 --> 00:04:30,839
Madam,

78
00:04:30,839 --> 00:04:31,879
Madam Yu has arrived.

79
00:04:32,720 --> 00:04:33,759
Madam Yu?

80
00:04:39,959 --> 00:04:40,920
Madam Yu.

81
00:04:46,720 --> 00:04:47,800
Madam Wei, I've heard

82
00:04:47,800 --> 00:04:49,720
you've acquired a rare set of Pai Gow.

83
00:04:50,399 --> 00:04:52,600
I'm hoping to get an identical one
for myself,

84
00:04:52,839 --> 00:04:54,519
but I don't know where to find it.

85
00:04:54,959 --> 00:04:56,360
You are always well-informed,

86
00:04:56,360 --> 00:04:57,680
Madam Yu.

87
00:04:57,920 --> 00:04:59,000
Sadly,

88
00:04:59,000 --> 00:05:00,399
such fine treasures

89
00:05:00,600 --> 00:05:02,639
are never sold on the open market.

90
00:05:02,800 --> 00:05:04,079
I've exhausted all my connections,

91
00:05:04,600 --> 00:05:06,639
searched far and wide,

92
00:05:06,800 --> 00:05:08,480
and finally managed to obtain this set.

93
00:05:08,680 --> 00:05:10,720
I have no wish to part with it
for the time being.

94
00:05:11,439 --> 00:05:12,600
So I truly cannot tell you

95
00:05:12,600 --> 00:05:14,199
where you might find

96
00:05:14,199 --> 00:05:16,000
another exactly the same.

97
00:05:18,480 --> 00:05:19,680
Your husband, Lord Wei,

98
00:05:19,680 --> 00:05:21,920
has served as a sixth-rank governor

99
00:05:21,920 --> 00:05:24,120
under your father for five years.

100
00:05:24,519 --> 00:05:26,040
Word has it recently

101
00:05:26,040 --> 00:05:27,319
he's in line for a promotion.

102
00:05:37,600 --> 00:05:39,160
A curious tale came to my mind.

103
00:05:39,879 --> 00:05:41,079
The other day I watched an opera

104
00:05:41,959 --> 00:05:43,040
telling the story

105
00:05:43,240 --> 00:05:45,639
about a wealthy merchant who married
his daughter to a poor scholar.

106
00:05:46,199 --> 00:05:47,680
After the scholar passed
the imperial exam,

107
00:05:47,680 --> 00:05:49,360
his father-in-law bought him
one official post after another.

108
00:05:49,879 --> 00:05:51,279
When he reached the senior sixth rank,

109
00:05:51,519 --> 00:05:53,720
the merchant refused
to spend another coin on him.

110
00:05:54,079 --> 00:05:55,439
Since you love operas, Madam Wei,

111
00:05:55,680 --> 00:05:56,920
might you enlighten me?

112
00:05:57,160 --> 00:05:58,639
Why was that?

113
00:05:59,120 --> 00:06:00,360
What other reason could there be?

114
00:06:00,759 --> 00:06:02,839
He did not wish
the young man to rise too swiftly

115
00:06:03,120 --> 00:06:04,439
lest he forget his roots.

116
00:06:05,680 --> 00:06:06,800
I see now.

117
00:06:13,360 --> 00:06:14,680
Look at this dog.

118
00:06:15,040 --> 00:06:16,759
It receives such lavish favor.

119
00:06:17,240 --> 00:06:19,079
Does it not rely entirely
on its master's power?

120
00:06:19,959 --> 00:06:21,240
If you dote on it,

121
00:06:21,319 --> 00:06:22,639
it becomes a precious plaything.

122
00:06:23,040 --> 00:06:24,519
If you withhold your favor,

123
00:06:25,079 --> 00:06:26,399
it is nothing at all.

124
00:06:31,959 --> 00:06:33,360
But all that aside,

125
00:06:33,600 --> 00:06:35,560
it still manages to amuse me.

126
00:06:37,079 --> 00:06:39,800
You don't wish Lord Wei
to climb ranks too hastily,

127
00:06:40,360 --> 00:06:42,199
yet you cannot bear to see him wronged.

128
00:06:43,199 --> 00:06:45,079
I have a plan that satisfies both sides.

129
00:06:47,199 --> 00:06:49,639
My husband holds
the post of Left Censor-in-Chief.

130
00:06:50,120 --> 00:06:51,560
All promotions and appointments

131
00:06:51,639 --> 00:06:53,240
of officials
fall under his jurisdiction.

132
00:06:53,759 --> 00:06:55,360
A single letter from me

133
00:06:55,519 --> 00:06:57,600
will make him know exactly
how to arrange this.

134
00:06:59,800 --> 00:07:01,079
In the official world,

135
00:07:01,480 --> 00:07:02,759
steadiness comes first.

136
00:07:03,000 --> 00:07:05,079
We can grant Lord Wei
a minor half-rank promotion first.

137
00:07:05,240 --> 00:07:07,319
Let him train under his father-in-law
for several years,

138
00:07:07,319 --> 00:07:08,759
to temper his character.

139
00:07:09,120 --> 00:07:10,240
Once he is transferred to the capital,

140
00:07:10,800 --> 00:07:12,199
he shall receive
a full promotion at once.

141
00:07:14,879 --> 00:07:17,160
You truly understand me, Madam.

142
00:07:28,199 --> 00:07:29,199
(Yu Residence)

143
00:07:29,199 --> 00:07:29,920
Madam,

144
00:07:30,040 --> 00:07:31,839
this was delivered
by Madam Wei's messenger.

145
00:07:40,720 --> 00:07:41,639
Ms. Shu,

146
00:07:42,720 --> 00:07:43,879
deliver this Pai Gow

147
00:07:44,560 --> 00:07:46,360
to the Xie Residence on Yangliu Lane.

148
00:07:47,000 --> 00:07:48,160
Yes, Madam.

149
00:07:49,280 --> 00:07:51,600
(Yan Residence)

150
00:07:54,839 --> 00:07:56,000
Master, you're home.

151
00:07:56,319 --> 00:07:57,680
You must be worn out today.

152
00:07:57,800 --> 00:07:59,680
I've prepared soothing tea for you.

153
00:08:00,160 --> 00:08:01,360
Would you care for a cup later?

154
00:08:01,600 --> 00:08:02,279
No need.

155
00:08:02,680 --> 00:08:03,759
You should rest early tonight.

156
00:08:04,360 --> 00:08:05,120
(Lord Yan, Western Capital)
From now on,

157
00:08:05,319 --> 00:08:06,360
(Salt Transport Commissioner)
you must restrain yourself.

158
00:08:07,399 --> 00:08:08,560
Grand Secretary Liu sent word.

159
00:08:08,560 --> 00:08:10,279
The Imperial Envoy
has left the capital in secret.

160
00:08:10,680 --> 00:08:12,600
But there's no trace of him to this day.

161
00:08:13,319 --> 00:08:15,079
When things seem off, something's wrong.

162
00:08:15,759 --> 00:08:16,959
Yes, Master.

163
00:08:17,399 --> 00:08:20,240
I shall decline all banquets tomorrow.

164
00:08:20,519 --> 00:08:22,000
I'll remain in the residence to pray.

165
00:08:22,639 --> 00:08:23,199
Then...

166
00:08:25,079 --> 00:08:25,639
Master...

167
00:08:36,440 --> 00:08:38,760
(Yan Residence)

168
00:08:42,720 --> 00:08:43,639
Miss Xie.

169
00:08:44,080 --> 00:08:45,159
What brings you here?

170
00:08:50,879 --> 00:08:51,919
Madam, perhaps you should take

171
00:08:51,919 --> 00:08:52,759
a look first.

172
00:09:08,559 --> 00:09:10,440
You are truly resourceful.

173
00:09:10,600 --> 00:09:12,840
Everyone has their own way.

174
00:09:13,080 --> 00:09:14,960
It suffices if I can ease your worries,
Madam.

175
00:09:15,360 --> 00:09:16,639
I recall

176
00:09:16,960 --> 00:09:18,200
your surname

177
00:09:19,159 --> 00:09:19,879
is Xie?

178
00:09:20,399 --> 00:09:21,039
Yes.

179
00:09:22,159 --> 00:09:24,720
I come from a lesser branch
of the Xie family in Jiangnan.

180
00:09:24,960 --> 00:09:27,159
My fiance goes by Mr. Zhao.

181
00:09:28,039 --> 00:09:29,240
We control

182
00:09:29,240 --> 00:09:30,600
some salt trading business.

183
00:09:32,879 --> 00:09:34,879
Where do you source your salt?

184
00:09:35,320 --> 00:09:36,480
And how exactly

185
00:09:36,480 --> 00:09:38,320
do you transport it
into Yongning Prefecture City?

186
00:09:39,039 --> 00:09:39,960
Madam,

187
00:09:40,440 --> 00:09:43,039
we load the salt
at Qinglong Gully in Lu Prefecture.

188
00:09:43,200 --> 00:09:45,039
We travel by mule caravan
across the Weibei Tableland.

189
00:09:45,360 --> 00:09:47,639
We pass Xiang Prefecture
without entering Xuantie Pass,

190
00:09:48,000 --> 00:09:50,039
taking a detour through Cuiping Valley
to reach Yongning Prefecture.

191
00:09:51,360 --> 00:09:54,440
The Yulin garrison troops up north
are short on salt.

192
00:09:54,799 --> 00:09:57,080
You dare to ship salt through
the ancient road to Fu Prefecture?

193
00:09:57,679 --> 00:10:00,360
The patrol station
at Sanyan Bridge over there

194
00:10:00,360 --> 00:10:01,720
is not to be trifled with.

195
00:10:02,120 --> 00:10:04,519
On the seventh of every month,
the patrol changes guard.

196
00:10:04,840 --> 00:10:07,240
Hide twenty cartloads of wheat straw
in the Huanglong Mountain hollow.

197
00:10:07,639 --> 00:10:09,120
The salt bags go underneath.

198
00:10:09,440 --> 00:10:11,480
Slip the guards some tea money,

199
00:10:11,480 --> 00:10:12,799
and they'll let you through.

200
00:10:14,200 --> 00:10:14,799
Take a seat.

201
00:10:16,039 --> 00:10:18,519
No wonder you come
from a proper merchant family.

202
00:10:19,039 --> 00:10:21,600
Business must be quite substantial,
I imagine?

203
00:10:22,080 --> 00:10:23,440
Throughout the northwest,

204
00:10:23,600 --> 00:10:24,960
no matter how big the business,

205
00:10:24,960 --> 00:10:26,840
it still has to
go through you, Madam Yan.

206
00:10:31,559 --> 00:10:33,480
The other day,

207
00:10:33,720 --> 00:10:35,679
your fiance seemed quite fond of you.

208
00:10:42,000 --> 00:10:43,639
It's all just for show.

209
00:10:45,320 --> 00:10:47,879
Isn't that why he sent me
to come and pay my respects?

210
00:10:49,360 --> 00:10:50,559
When it comes down to it,

211
00:10:51,799 --> 00:10:53,559
it's only for his own business.

212
00:10:54,080 --> 00:10:55,720
He trusts you, though.

213
00:10:55,840 --> 00:10:57,440
This family business is vast,

214
00:10:57,519 --> 00:10:59,120
and you know it inside out.

215
00:10:59,360 --> 00:11:01,039
After all, there are some tasks

216
00:11:01,639 --> 00:11:02,919
he can't show his face for.

217
00:11:03,600 --> 00:11:05,519
Putting a woman forward

218
00:11:05,679 --> 00:11:08,120
is much more convenient
than acting himself.

219
00:11:15,399 --> 00:11:16,159
Madam.

220
00:11:16,600 --> 00:11:18,440
I'd like, on behalf of my fiance,
Mr. Zhao,

221
00:11:19,039 --> 00:11:20,080
to ask

222
00:11:20,440 --> 00:11:21,600
for a salt permit, Madam Yan.

223
00:11:21,759 --> 00:11:22,679
May I ask

224
00:11:23,759 --> 00:11:25,240
if you would grant me this favor?

225
00:11:29,879 --> 00:11:32,440
When salt permits are issued
in a few days,

226
00:11:32,440 --> 00:11:34,120
have Mr. Zhao wait

227
00:11:34,600 --> 00:11:36,120
at the Salt Inspection Station.

228
00:11:37,559 --> 00:11:38,639
Thank you, Madam.

229
00:11:42,840 --> 00:11:43,720
Mr. Yu.

230
00:11:44,440 --> 00:11:45,600
In a few days,

231
00:11:45,600 --> 00:11:46,799
the autumn provincial exam will be held.

232
00:11:47,240 --> 00:11:48,399
The weather's turning cold.

233
00:11:49,039 --> 00:11:50,399
I have sewn a pair

234
00:11:50,639 --> 00:11:52,080
of silk shoes for you.

235
00:11:52,399 --> 00:11:54,879
I hope you stay healthy

236
00:11:55,440 --> 00:11:56,559
and pass the exam with top marks.

237
00:12:15,240 --> 00:12:16,120
Keep them safe.

238
00:12:21,360 --> 00:12:22,600
You think of me every day,

239
00:12:23,320 --> 00:12:25,120
but you should take care of
yourself, too.

240
00:12:28,000 --> 00:12:29,200
Take good care of Miss Fan.

241
00:12:29,519 --> 00:12:31,240
She's feeling upset.

242
00:12:31,600 --> 00:12:32,320
Mozhan,

243
00:12:33,159 --> 00:12:34,200
stop it.

244
00:12:42,120 --> 00:12:44,639
I know Madam favors
the Ninth Young Lady Fu.

245
00:12:46,600 --> 00:12:48,200
I should be more diligent.

246
00:13:08,240 --> 00:13:08,919
Chengxin.

247
00:13:10,159 --> 00:13:10,960
Madam,

248
00:13:11,200 --> 00:13:12,279
recently,

249
00:13:12,440 --> 00:13:13,919
indeed has been
keeping much closer company

250
00:13:13,919 --> 00:13:15,279
with Ninth Young Lady Fu.

251
00:13:15,799 --> 00:13:17,200
My imperial exam is near.

252
00:13:18,519 --> 00:13:19,759
She can't interfere anymore.

253
00:13:21,440 --> 00:13:23,519
So she goes to pester Miss Fan.

254
00:13:26,120 --> 00:13:27,159
Find someone.

255
00:13:28,080 --> 00:13:29,039
My master sent

256
00:13:29,039 --> 00:13:30,679
these Huzhou brushes
and Huizhou ink for you, sir.

257
00:13:31,320 --> 00:13:32,919
May you succeed

258
00:13:32,919 --> 00:13:33,919
in the imperial exams.

259
00:13:37,399 --> 00:13:39,080
Once you get it done,

260
00:13:39,559 --> 00:13:41,960
I can arrange
a top-tier examination hall for you.

261
00:13:44,360 --> 00:13:45,200
Thank you, Mr. Yu.

262
00:13:48,279 --> 00:13:49,159
I am

263
00:13:49,240 --> 00:13:51,039
a Xiucai from Huaying County.

264
00:13:51,240 --> 00:13:54,000
After ten years of hard study,

265
00:13:54,360 --> 00:13:55,799
his talents

266
00:13:55,960 --> 00:13:57,120
remained unrecognized.

267
00:13:59,080 --> 00:14:00,039
But instead,

268
00:14:00,480 --> 00:14:02,440
the Ninth Young Lady Fu favors me.

269
00:14:02,919 --> 00:14:05,039
Good!

270
00:14:05,039 --> 00:14:06,720
Go on!

271
00:14:06,720 --> 00:14:07,399
Her father

272
00:14:07,519 --> 00:14:09,519
is a fifth-rank official in the capital.

273
00:14:10,039 --> 00:14:12,840
Her mother's family,
the Xie family of Jiangnan, is wealthy.

274
00:14:13,559 --> 00:14:15,320
She is blessed and brilliant.

275
00:14:15,320 --> 00:14:16,639
Everyone praises her.

276
00:14:17,000 --> 00:14:17,840
But who knew...

277
00:14:18,440 --> 00:14:19,200
What happened?

278
00:14:19,360 --> 00:14:20,159
What's wrong?

279
00:14:20,159 --> 00:14:23,000
She turned out to be a shameless woman!

280
00:14:24,320 --> 00:14:26,080
Good!

281
00:14:26,080 --> 00:14:27,440
The Xie family of Jiangnan?

282
00:14:28,320 --> 00:14:29,440
Miss Xie?

283
00:14:29,960 --> 00:14:30,799
She was

284
00:14:31,159 --> 00:14:32,759
already betrothed to me,

285
00:14:33,080 --> 00:14:33,960
and threw me over

286
00:14:33,960 --> 00:14:36,559
to chase after an Imperial Envoy!

287
00:14:38,080 --> 00:14:39,120
(Grand Secretary Liu sent word:)

288
00:14:39,559 --> 00:14:41,200
(the Imperial Envoy
has left the capital in secret.)

289
00:14:41,679 --> 00:14:43,480
(But there's no trace
of him to this day.)

290
00:14:43,919 --> 00:14:45,799
Have someone look into her fiance,

291
00:14:45,960 --> 00:14:47,519
Mr. Zhao,

292
00:14:47,519 --> 00:14:48,440
and find out who he really is.

293
00:14:48,600 --> 00:14:49,639
Yes, Madam.

294
00:14:51,200 --> 00:14:53,440
(Yan Residence)

295
00:14:54,519 --> 00:14:55,440
Found it.

296
00:14:56,000 --> 00:14:57,240
The Fu family of Huaying

297
00:14:57,399 --> 00:14:59,639
does have a Ninth Young Lady.

298
00:15:00,200 --> 00:15:01,919
Her mother's family
is the Xie family of Jiangnan.

299
00:15:02,440 --> 00:15:04,120
But Mr. Zhao's background is unknown.

300
00:15:04,279 --> 00:15:05,440
Nothing can be found on him.

301
00:15:06,200 --> 00:15:07,720
(Could he really be an Imperial Envoy?)

302
00:15:08,800 --> 00:15:09,960
(Yong'an)

303
00:15:13,840 --> 00:15:14,559
(Miss Xie,)

304
00:15:15,039 --> 00:15:16,159
(Madam Yan has invited you)

305
00:15:16,159 --> 00:15:17,919
(for tea at Yong'an Wharf right now.)

306
00:15:18,200 --> 00:15:20,159
(Her intentions may not be good.)

307
00:15:20,639 --> 00:15:22,159
(Mr. Zhao is at the wharf today.)

308
00:15:22,720 --> 00:15:23,600
(I must go.)

309
00:15:30,840 --> 00:15:31,879
That's wonderful.

310
00:15:32,200 --> 00:15:33,080
Madam.

311
00:15:41,840 --> 00:15:42,279
Let's leave.

312
00:15:47,159 --> 00:15:48,000
For me,

313
00:15:48,200 --> 00:15:49,720
I hate being lied to more than anything.

314
00:15:50,120 --> 00:15:51,399
You came to do business with me,

315
00:15:51,759 --> 00:15:53,039
but hid who you really are.

316
00:15:54,120 --> 00:15:55,799
If you can't explain yourself today,

317
00:15:56,279 --> 00:15:57,879
I'll kill your man.

318
00:16:04,720 --> 00:16:05,519
Madam.

319
00:16:07,279 --> 00:16:08,960
It's not that I won't be honest.

320
00:16:09,679 --> 00:16:10,679
It's truly...

321
00:16:12,399 --> 00:16:14,440
It's truly hard to speak of.

322
00:16:16,320 --> 00:16:17,799
That Xiucai was right,

323
00:16:18,240 --> 00:16:19,440
but not entirely.

324
00:16:19,879 --> 00:16:21,879
I am indeed from the Fu family
of Huaying.

325
00:16:23,919 --> 00:16:25,679
To appease my cousin's wife

326
00:16:25,759 --> 00:16:27,039
and keep the memorial arch,

327
00:16:27,320 --> 00:16:29,679
they agreed to my betrothal
to that Xiucai.

328
00:16:30,200 --> 00:16:31,360
But right then,

329
00:16:31,759 --> 00:16:33,600
Mr. Zhao came to Huaying on business.

330
00:16:33,799 --> 00:16:35,480
He falsely claimed
to be an Imperial Envoy.

331
00:16:36,200 --> 00:16:37,480
To save myself,

332
00:16:38,200 --> 00:16:39,840
I had no choice but to cling to him.

333
00:16:42,360 --> 00:16:43,480
An Imperial Envoy?

334
00:16:44,759 --> 00:16:45,879
Falsely claimed?

335
00:16:49,559 --> 00:16:50,159
He...

336
00:16:52,840 --> 00:16:54,840
He's nothing but a salt smuggler.

337
00:16:58,279 --> 00:17:00,080
I feared you would worry, Madam,

338
00:17:00,440 --> 00:17:01,759
so earlier

339
00:17:01,840 --> 00:17:03,039
I dared not say more.

340
00:17:04,200 --> 00:17:06,480
After all, we've pledged
our lives to each other.

341
00:17:06,759 --> 00:17:08,319
Mr. Zhao comes from bandit stock.

342
00:17:08,720 --> 00:17:10,519
He's been wanted
by the authorities for ages.

343
00:17:11,599 --> 00:17:12,440
I just...

344
00:17:12,960 --> 00:17:14,319
I just want

345
00:17:14,319 --> 00:17:16,279
a peaceful life, that's all.

346
00:17:23,279 --> 00:17:24,839
That's why I thought

347
00:17:25,559 --> 00:17:27,400
I'd seek your help, Madam,

348
00:17:27,480 --> 00:17:28,799
to ask for a salt permit.

349
00:17:30,440 --> 00:17:31,119
Madam,

350
00:17:31,799 --> 00:17:33,400
I beg you to show mercy.

351
00:17:34,000 --> 00:17:35,880
Even if you won't give us the permit,

352
00:17:36,440 --> 00:17:37,359
I beg you.

353
00:17:37,880 --> 00:17:39,640
Please don't take our lives.

354
00:17:46,279 --> 00:17:47,799
You poor thing.

355
00:17:49,200 --> 00:17:50,920
Quick, help Miss Xie up.

356
00:17:53,799 --> 00:17:55,319
You're overthinking this.

357
00:17:56,200 --> 00:17:57,880
I'm just an ordinary woman.

358
00:17:58,359 --> 00:17:59,680
What could I possibly do to him?

359
00:18:01,880 --> 00:18:03,480
You're so worried about him.

360
00:18:03,839 --> 00:18:04,720
How about

361
00:18:05,119 --> 00:18:06,599
you go and see him?

362
00:18:08,240 --> 00:18:09,319
Thank you, Madam.

363
00:18:11,559 --> 00:18:12,519
Mr. Zhao!

364
00:18:27,799 --> 00:18:28,240
What?

365
00:18:28,240 --> 00:18:30,359
She just ran up
and hugged him right away.

366
00:18:30,519 --> 00:18:31,599
She really did.

367
00:18:34,400 --> 00:18:35,119
Run.

368
00:18:35,759 --> 00:18:36,880
They're going to kill you.

369
00:18:43,279 --> 00:18:44,240
On the boat.

370
00:18:48,960 --> 00:18:50,920
Pass my order. Stick to the plan.

371
00:18:51,640 --> 00:18:53,079
I need to test his true colors.

372
00:19:04,599 --> 00:19:05,799
Your reputation...

373
00:19:11,400 --> 00:19:12,240
Now that we're leaving,

374
00:19:14,519 --> 00:19:15,920
the case can't be investigated anymore.

375
00:19:17,480 --> 00:19:18,880
But just now, with everyone watching,

376
00:19:18,880 --> 00:19:20,079
you acted so close to me.

377
00:19:20,640 --> 00:19:22,480
If you're branded as a woman who eloped,

378
00:19:24,079 --> 00:19:25,759
you'll truly have nowhere to go.

379
00:19:29,440 --> 00:19:31,039
But I can't watch you die.

380
00:19:32,519 --> 00:19:33,880
I'm the one who brought you into this.

381
00:19:34,160 --> 00:19:35,599
I have to make sure you get out alive.

382
00:19:35,960 --> 00:19:37,119
Even if she believes

383
00:19:37,319 --> 00:19:38,799
I ran off with a salt smuggler.

384
00:19:39,079 --> 00:19:40,480
She must not believe

385
00:19:40,480 --> 00:19:41,400
you are the Imperial Envoy.

386
00:19:57,920 --> 00:19:58,839
Too late.

387
00:19:59,920 --> 00:20:01,839
Madam Yan is no ordinary woman.

388
00:20:02,559 --> 00:20:04,160
She's already set her mind
on killing us.

389
00:20:06,319 --> 00:20:07,880
Looks like we'll have to
fight our way out.

390
00:20:16,920 --> 00:20:18,240
Take the water route
and there are our men waiting.

391
00:20:18,680 --> 00:20:19,960
I'll clear a path for us.

392
00:21:08,519 --> 00:21:09,160
Mr. Zhao!

393
00:21:09,160 --> 00:21:10,400
Look who I brought you.

394
00:21:13,960 --> 00:21:14,559
Catch.

395
00:21:28,000 --> 00:21:28,560
(Fur Shop)

396
00:21:58,200 --> 00:21:59,519
So you're the one
who fired the signal arrow.

397
00:21:59,599 --> 00:22:00,279
Who are you?

398
00:22:02,440 --> 00:22:03,480
This is Jiuweijiao.

399
00:22:03,680 --> 00:22:04,400
Mr. Zhao.

400
00:22:05,400 --> 00:22:06,200
Mr. Zhao?

401
00:22:06,559 --> 00:22:07,960
This disguise is pretty good.

402
00:22:08,599 --> 00:22:10,400
Much more handsome than last time.

403
00:22:12,680 --> 00:22:13,599
Show some respect.

404
00:22:18,039 --> 00:22:19,039
This is

405
00:22:19,920 --> 00:22:21,039
Mr. Zhao's true face.

406
00:22:27,559 --> 00:22:29,160
Then remember this face well.

407
00:22:30,759 --> 00:22:31,599
From now on,

408
00:22:40,359 --> 00:22:42,000
we recognize the face, not the token.

409
00:22:43,480 --> 00:22:44,880
Greetings, Mr. Zhao.

410
00:23:00,039 --> 00:23:02,039
(He really is Jiuweijiao.)

411
00:23:20,920 --> 00:23:22,400
Madam Yan, you still dare to come?

412
00:23:22,880 --> 00:23:24,880
I was blind not to recognize greatness.

413
00:23:25,640 --> 00:23:27,680
I didn't know you were

414
00:23:27,759 --> 00:23:30,359
the fearsome Jiuweijiao himself.

415
00:23:32,440 --> 00:23:33,839
So, are we still doing

416
00:23:37,039 --> 00:23:37,960
the salt permit business

417
00:23:39,359 --> 00:23:40,160
or not?

418
00:23:40,480 --> 00:23:41,440
Right now,

419
00:23:41,960 --> 00:23:43,839
the heat is on outside.

420
00:23:43,839 --> 00:23:45,599
The heat is on outside.

421
00:23:45,839 --> 00:23:47,680
If you and your husband are of one mind,

422
00:23:47,759 --> 00:23:48,640
then that's fine.

423
00:23:49,400 --> 00:23:50,400
But unfortunately,

424
00:23:50,799 --> 00:23:52,519
I see that you and Lord Yan

425
00:23:52,960 --> 00:23:54,160
are not on the same page.

426
00:23:56,640 --> 00:23:58,160
What do you mean by that,

427
00:23:58,440 --> 00:23:59,519
Miss Xie?

428
00:23:59,680 --> 00:24:00,920
You know, Madam,

429
00:24:01,160 --> 00:24:03,119
I'm not from a humble family.

430
00:24:03,640 --> 00:24:05,400
I do have some insight.

431
00:24:05,880 --> 00:24:06,599
Madam,

432
00:24:07,400 --> 00:24:09,079
you accept goods but not silver.

433
00:24:09,799 --> 00:24:11,119
That's because once silver

434
00:24:11,119 --> 00:24:12,920
enters the Yan family's accounts,

435
00:24:13,319 --> 00:24:15,359
it will never find its way back to you.

436
00:24:15,359 --> 00:24:17,440
Only as stored goods in the warehouse

437
00:24:17,440 --> 00:24:18,960
can it remain untouched

438
00:24:18,960 --> 00:24:21,240
and be packed
into your three daughters' dowries.

439
00:24:26,039 --> 00:24:28,000
A parent's love is the same everywhere.

440
00:24:28,519 --> 00:24:29,240
Madam,

441
00:24:29,759 --> 00:24:31,519
the storm is indeed fierce right now.

442
00:24:31,680 --> 00:24:33,519
But in these raging waves,

443
00:24:33,880 --> 00:24:36,160
you just happened to run into
Mr. Zhao's ship.

444
00:24:45,319 --> 00:24:48,240
Mr. Zhao wields immense power.

445
00:24:48,440 --> 00:24:49,759
Once you miss,

446
00:24:50,359 --> 00:24:52,039
there'll be no more chance.

447
00:25:05,359 --> 00:25:06,720
Women

448
00:25:07,160 --> 00:25:08,359
fight and claw their way,

449
00:25:09,559 --> 00:25:10,440
all for one thing,

450
00:25:10,920 --> 00:25:12,640
to survive

451
00:25:13,680 --> 00:25:14,759
on what men provide.

452
00:25:15,519 --> 00:25:16,680
Yet some folks

453
00:25:18,920 --> 00:25:20,119
would still share

454
00:25:20,680 --> 00:25:22,480
that little with outsiders.

455
00:25:23,599 --> 00:25:24,359
Enough of this.

456
00:25:25,160 --> 00:25:26,039
Miss Xie,

457
00:25:26,599 --> 00:25:27,680
fate has brought us together.

458
00:25:27,799 --> 00:25:28,640
I'll take

459
00:25:29,400 --> 00:25:30,119
this deal,

460
00:25:30,759 --> 00:25:31,559
but

461
00:25:31,920 --> 00:25:33,119
I have one condition.

462
00:25:35,240 --> 00:25:37,240
Since Madam Yan said
finding the mistress

463
00:25:37,240 --> 00:25:38,440
will earn us the salt permit,

464
00:25:39,279 --> 00:25:40,680
you need not worry too much, Miss Xie.

465
00:25:41,880 --> 00:25:43,400
It'll just take some time.

466
00:25:43,839 --> 00:25:46,519
If he intends to hide his mistress,

467
00:25:47,680 --> 00:25:49,119
he won't easily slip up.

468
00:25:50,680 --> 00:25:52,920
But if Lord Yan begins to suspect

469
00:25:53,079 --> 00:25:54,799
that the child he's carefully raised

470
00:25:55,559 --> 00:25:56,680
is not his own.

471
00:25:57,039 --> 00:25:58,000
What then?

472
00:26:00,320 --> 00:26:01,720
(Peace and Order Prevail
Under Mighty Rule)

473
00:26:01,720 --> 00:26:02,920
You shameless lecher.

474
00:26:03,000 --> 00:26:03,920
Do you confess your crime?

475
00:26:04,119 --> 00:26:05,039
Calm down, My Lord.

476
00:26:05,240 --> 00:26:06,200
I'll confess.

477
00:26:09,359 --> 00:26:10,319
My Lord.

478
00:26:10,880 --> 00:26:11,839
I did indeed steal

479
00:26:11,839 --> 00:26:15,319
into young ladies' chambers.

480
00:26:15,319 --> 00:26:15,799
But

481
00:26:15,799 --> 00:26:18,880
I never defiled

482
00:26:18,880 --> 00:26:21,000
any innocent maiden
from a respectable family.

483
00:26:21,200 --> 00:26:22,680
The one I took a liking to

484
00:26:22,960 --> 00:26:24,519
was a mistress.

485
00:26:24,519 --> 00:26:26,240
A mistress?

486
00:26:26,240 --> 00:26:27,880
You shameless wretch!

487
00:26:27,960 --> 00:26:28,799
Silence!

488
00:26:29,160 --> 00:26:31,519
Just state the facts clearly.

489
00:26:32,079 --> 00:26:33,319
There is no need to recount

490
00:26:33,960 --> 00:26:35,039
your crimes in detail.

491
00:26:35,240 --> 00:26:37,000
Yes, I understand.

492
00:26:37,000 --> 00:26:38,759
Why did I find a mistress?

493
00:26:38,960 --> 00:26:40,400
Mainly for peace of mind.

494
00:26:40,400 --> 00:26:41,279
She usually

495
00:26:41,440 --> 00:26:42,759
doesn't cling to me at all.

496
00:26:42,759 --> 00:26:44,359
Her husband takes Mon, Wed, and Fri,

497
00:26:44,359 --> 00:26:45,559
while I take Tue, Thu, and Sat.

498
00:26:45,559 --> 00:26:46,880
And I don't even have to pay

499
00:26:46,960 --> 00:26:48,640
to raise our child.

500
00:26:49,039 --> 00:26:50,000
Did you hear?

501
00:26:50,200 --> 00:26:52,680
That deflowering thief
just escaped from jail.

502
00:26:53,079 --> 00:26:54,000
Really?

503
00:26:54,759 --> 00:26:56,319
Like a Jiao returning to the sea.

504
00:26:56,319 --> 00:26:57,319
Hope he doesn't strike again.

505
00:26:57,319 --> 00:26:58,599
He wouldn't dare.

506
00:26:58,680 --> 00:26:59,680
What he's looking for

507
00:26:59,799 --> 00:27:01,519
is his old flame.

508
00:27:01,680 --> 00:27:02,880
They even have a child.

509
00:27:02,880 --> 00:27:03,519
Surely

510
00:27:03,519 --> 00:27:04,839
there's still feeling between them.

511
00:27:09,400 --> 00:27:10,480
I heard they got

512
00:27:10,640 --> 00:27:12,599
quite a bit out of that scoundrel
during interrogation.

513
00:27:12,599 --> 00:27:14,759
Dainty undergarments, sachets,

514
00:27:15,400 --> 00:27:17,160
and a rattle-drum.

515
00:27:17,599 --> 00:27:19,480
I wonder which poor fool

516
00:27:19,759 --> 00:27:21,039
got caught up in this mess.

517
00:27:21,480 --> 00:27:22,920
The woman and child

518
00:27:23,240 --> 00:27:24,440
are someone else's.

519
00:27:24,880 --> 00:27:25,960
That child

520
00:27:25,960 --> 00:27:27,759
was born with two fathers.

521
00:27:28,200 --> 00:27:30,039
Isn't that a blessing?

522
00:27:32,359 --> 00:27:33,559
Master, you are back.

523
00:27:56,440 --> 00:27:57,640
(Notify Miss Xie.)

524
00:27:57,720 --> 00:27:58,920
(The fish has taken the bait.)

525
00:27:59,839 --> 00:28:01,240
Ride the horsey!

526
00:28:02,200 --> 00:28:02,960
Having fun?

527
00:28:03,119 --> 00:28:04,000
Yes!

528
00:28:04,680 --> 00:28:05,559
I knew

529
00:28:05,559 --> 00:28:07,160
those people were all talking nonsense.

530
00:28:08,240 --> 00:28:09,359
Your father has things to do.

531
00:28:09,359 --> 00:28:10,279
He'll play with you later.

532
00:28:10,279 --> 00:28:10,880
I want more!

533
00:28:10,880 --> 00:28:11,640
You want more?

534
00:28:11,960 --> 00:28:12,799
Here, sit tight.

535
00:28:13,240 --> 00:28:14,799
Ride the horsey!

536
00:28:15,000 --> 00:28:15,759
Come on!

537
00:28:15,759 --> 00:28:17,319
Ride!

538
00:28:20,200 --> 00:28:21,079
What do you want to eat?

539
00:28:21,440 --> 00:28:22,519
Anything tastes better

540
00:28:22,519 --> 00:28:23,720
with you.

541
00:28:35,839 --> 00:28:36,759
Up you go!

542
00:28:43,200 --> 00:28:44,599
You found the mistress for me.

543
00:28:44,920 --> 00:28:47,079
I'll give you the salt permit
from the Salt Inspection Station.

544
00:28:47,599 --> 00:28:48,440
Do you like that?

545
00:28:57,240 --> 00:28:59,600
(Yan Residence)

546
00:29:03,240 --> 00:29:03,799
Nice.

547
00:29:03,799 --> 00:29:04,200
How is it?

548
00:29:04,279 --> 00:29:05,079
Let me try.

549
00:29:09,119 --> 00:29:10,440
You're pretty good at this.

550
00:29:10,559 --> 00:29:11,200
How about now?

551
00:29:11,759 --> 00:29:12,480
You've got talent.

552
00:29:12,920 --> 00:29:14,119
Just one more stroke.

553
00:29:17,000 --> 00:29:17,920
You little troublemaker!

554
00:29:17,920 --> 00:29:18,640
Stop right there!

555
00:29:18,640 --> 00:29:20,000
I'll get you for that!

556
00:29:23,359 --> 00:29:25,640
(The man thinks a daughter
can't inherit the family legacy.)

557
00:29:26,319 --> 00:29:28,319
(He gives her food and clothes
and calls that love.)

558
00:29:29,279 --> 00:29:31,119
(Yet they are gentle and kind.)

559
00:29:31,559 --> 00:29:32,880
(If they have no money of their own,)

560
00:29:33,599 --> 00:29:35,079
(who will they rely on
once they leave their parents?)

561
00:29:42,720 --> 00:29:43,359
Mr. Zhao,

562
00:29:44,160 --> 00:29:44,880
Zuo Junjie

563
00:29:44,880 --> 00:29:46,880
spreads slander about you
and the Ninth Young Lady.

564
00:29:47,079 --> 00:29:48,079
He's scared

565
00:29:48,680 --> 00:29:49,680
and hiding somewhere.

566
00:29:51,400 --> 00:29:53,119
He must know he's made mistakes

567
00:29:54,039 --> 00:29:55,200
and is hiding from everyone on purpose.

568
00:29:55,920 --> 00:29:56,599
No matter.

569
00:29:58,400 --> 00:29:59,799
The autumn provincial exam draws near.

570
00:30:00,519 --> 00:30:01,720
So we might as well wait

571
00:30:03,039 --> 00:30:05,519
for him.

572
00:30:06,559 --> 00:30:07,559
(Examination Hall)

573
00:30:07,559 --> 00:30:08,039
Give it here.

574
00:30:12,520 --> 00:30:14,120
(Exam Admission Slip: Yu Jingxiu)

575
00:30:16,920 --> 00:30:17,359
Go on.

576
00:30:19,359 --> 00:30:20,319
Grant me success.

577
00:30:21,720 --> 00:30:23,240
Grant me top honors in all three exams.

578
00:30:24,720 --> 00:30:25,240
Go on in.

579
00:30:25,240 --> 00:30:27,079
This young master's features alone

580
00:30:27,079 --> 00:30:28,079
promise certain success.

581
00:30:28,079 --> 00:30:28,880
Indeed.

582
00:30:28,960 --> 00:30:30,279
Look at that finely shaped nose.

583
00:30:31,079 --> 00:30:31,880
You flatter me.

584
00:30:31,880 --> 00:30:32,519
Go on.

585
00:30:32,680 --> 00:30:33,160
I am innocent!

586
00:30:33,160 --> 00:30:34,359
My Lord, you have it wrong!

587
00:30:34,359 --> 00:30:35,759
I am wronged!

588
00:30:37,359 --> 00:30:38,000
Next.

589
00:30:39,680 --> 00:30:41,119
May you two also succeed

590
00:30:41,359 --> 00:30:42,759
and pass with distinction.

591
00:30:45,359 --> 00:30:45,839
Let's go.

592
00:30:47,280 --> 00:30:48,145
(Exam Admission Slip: Zhao Guanlan)

593
00:30:48,146 --> 00:30:48,880
(Exam Admission Slip: Zuo Junjie)

594
00:30:54,279 --> 00:30:55,519
Zuo Junjie cheated on the exam!

595
00:30:55,960 --> 00:30:56,519
My Lord!

596
00:30:56,799 --> 00:30:58,000
This is not mine!

597
00:30:58,119 --> 00:30:58,680
Guards!

598
00:30:58,920 --> 00:30:59,519
Throw him out!

599
00:30:59,519 --> 00:31:00,640
My Lord, this isn't mine!

600
00:31:00,640 --> 00:31:01,039
Move!

601
00:31:01,039 --> 00:31:01,599
Out!

602
00:31:01,599 --> 00:31:02,559
- I need to take the exam!
- Out!

603
00:31:02,559 --> 00:31:03,079
My Lord!

604
00:31:03,079 --> 00:31:04,559
- I have real talent!
- Move!

605
00:31:04,559 --> 00:31:05,160
My Lord!

606
00:31:05,160 --> 00:31:06,640
(Examination Hall)

607
00:31:06,640 --> 00:31:08,000
(Tian-Class Examination Cell No. 9)

608
00:31:16,359 --> 00:31:17,480
Sit down.

609
00:31:17,480 --> 00:31:18,559
I didn't cheat!

610
00:31:18,720 --> 00:31:20,319
You're framing me!

611
00:31:20,319 --> 00:31:21,599
So what if we are?

612
00:31:23,160 --> 00:31:24,000
Mr. Zhao.

613
00:31:26,960 --> 00:31:28,039
What are you going to do about it?

614
00:31:30,799 --> 00:31:32,480
Back when you were in Huaying County,

615
00:31:32,839 --> 00:31:34,599
how did you slander Miss Fu?

616
00:31:34,960 --> 00:31:36,720
Tell me everything in full detail.

617
00:31:39,000 --> 00:31:40,759
I'm just a poor scholar.

618
00:31:40,759 --> 00:31:41,799
I don't know anything.

619
00:31:44,759 --> 00:31:45,759
My nose!

620
00:31:46,160 --> 00:31:47,279
My official career!

621
00:31:48,400 --> 00:31:49,400
According to the law,

622
00:31:50,240 --> 00:31:51,880
you're to be sent to forced labor.

623
00:31:54,119 --> 00:31:55,640
But whether you go there whole

624
00:31:59,119 --> 00:32:01,079
or go there maimed,

625
00:32:02,000 --> 00:32:03,240
that's two different ways.

626
00:32:05,480 --> 00:32:07,279
Tell the truth now.

627
00:32:13,000 --> 00:32:14,279
Write a full confession.

628
00:32:15,519 --> 00:32:17,000
I'll send you to labor.

629
00:32:18,279 --> 00:32:20,880
But if you still dare to talk back,

630
00:32:26,519 --> 00:32:29,279
what gets broken
won't just be your nose.

631
00:32:38,319 --> 00:32:39,559
I'll talk!

632
00:32:39,680 --> 00:32:41,119
I'll tell you everything!

633
00:32:41,519 --> 00:32:42,920
This was all

634
00:32:42,920 --> 00:32:44,400
my sister's idea.

635
00:32:44,559 --> 00:32:46,200
The night before the betrothal proposal,

636
00:32:46,359 --> 00:32:48,000
she called me to her room.

637
00:32:48,000 --> 00:32:49,000
And I went.

638
00:32:49,599 --> 00:32:51,359
(Just follow my instructions)

639
00:32:51,480 --> 00:32:52,920
(and propose to the Old Madam.)

640
00:32:54,160 --> 00:32:55,680
(Tingyun will be yours.)

641
00:33:00,960 --> 00:33:02,160
She also told

642
00:33:02,240 --> 00:33:03,920
Moxiang to steal that thing.

643
00:33:04,240 --> 00:33:05,960
I only took it that day.

644
00:33:06,200 --> 00:33:08,160
Every word I've said is true.

645
00:33:08,359 --> 00:33:10,079
Not a single lie!

646
00:33:25,520 --> 00:33:27,720
(Written Confession)

647
00:33:34,920 --> 00:33:35,640
(Grandmother,)

648
00:33:36,200 --> 00:33:38,480
(I've always taken your teachings
to heart.)

649
00:33:38,640 --> 00:33:40,000
(I would never do anything)

650
00:33:40,240 --> 00:33:41,559
(so shameless)

651
00:33:41,559 --> 00:33:42,880
(or disgraceful to our family.)

652
00:33:43,519 --> 00:33:45,519
(Those two
could not help their feelings.)

653
00:33:45,960 --> 00:33:47,119
(It was fated.)

654
00:33:47,960 --> 00:33:49,880
(Tingyun)

655
00:33:50,000 --> 00:33:52,720
(will soon take root in the Zuo family.)

656
00:33:53,440 --> 00:33:55,039
(Tingyun has fallen ill.)

657
00:33:55,799 --> 00:33:57,599
(Send her to Biyun Nunnery.)

658
00:33:59,000 --> 00:34:00,680
(She'll remain there in seclusion.)

659
00:34:02,000 --> 00:34:05,280
♪Bearing wings through stormy tides♪
(Written Confession: Zuo Junjie)

660
00:34:05,280 --> 00:34:08,680
♪Wash away the stain
of every false accusation♪

661
00:34:08,680 --> 00:34:10,199
♪May all common folk share one roof♪

662
00:34:10,199 --> 00:34:10,920
(If I)

663
00:34:10,920 --> 00:34:12,960
(head to the capital
without clearing things up,)

664
00:34:13,239 --> 00:34:15,000
(won't I be admitting to adultery?)

665
00:34:15,760 --> 00:34:16,800
(Zuo Junjie)

666
00:34:16,920 --> 00:34:18,360
(is going to Yongning Prefecture
for the examinations.)

667
00:34:18,559 --> 00:34:19,440
(I want to go there)

668
00:34:19,719 --> 00:34:21,480
(and find a way to have him captured.
I'll have him interrogated)

669
00:34:21,760 --> 00:34:23,079
(and force him to sign
a written confession.)

670
00:34:23,079 --> 00:34:24,239
(Then I'll go to the capital)

671
00:34:24,239 --> 00:34:25,039
(and use it to clear my name.)

672
00:34:27,760 --> 00:34:30,760
♪Let the past remain beyond recall♪

673
00:34:30,760 --> 00:34:35,440
♪Trade it for boundless blue
skies to fly free and far♪

674
00:34:35,440 --> 00:34:38,160
♪I seek no mercy♪

675
00:34:38,160 --> 00:34:41,560
♪Lent by mortal world♪
(Signature of Declarant: Zuo Junjie)

676
00:34:41,640 --> 00:34:46,160
♪This mortal world♪

677
00:34:47,480 --> 00:34:49,960
♪Let this mortal world carry me♪
(Signature of Declarant: Zuo Junjie)

678
00:34:49,960 --> 00:34:53,680
♪Through a life adrift♪

679
00:34:53,680 --> 00:34:57,280
♪With wit and strategy,
I enter this game without regret♪

680
00:34:57,280 --> 00:34:58,679
To climb the ranks,

681
00:34:59,239 --> 00:35:01,000
he framed a defenseless woman.

682
00:35:02,079 --> 00:35:03,000
Send him to the authorities.

683
00:35:07,360 --> 00:35:12,560
♪I crave no clarity♪

684
00:35:12,560 --> 00:35:15,320
♪From outside my soul♪

685
00:35:21,679 --> 00:35:22,679
Thank you, Mr. Zhao.

686
00:35:25,280 --> 00:35:26,400
No need for thanks

687
00:35:26,639 --> 00:35:27,519
between us.

688
00:35:29,320 --> 00:35:31,119
You don't intend to charge Zuo Junjie.

689
00:35:31,800 --> 00:35:32,960
But I thought,

690
00:35:33,480 --> 00:35:34,840
when you look back on this journey,

691
00:35:36,239 --> 00:35:37,280
your heart should be at peace.

692
00:35:40,440 --> 00:35:42,199
We're now in the same boat.

693
00:35:42,679 --> 00:35:43,920
It's only right.

694
00:35:45,760 --> 00:35:47,559
I'm always this way with my men.

695
00:35:55,880 --> 00:35:56,880
The results are out!

696
00:35:56,880 --> 00:35:57,760
The results are out!

697
00:35:57,760 --> 00:35:58,559
Wonderful!

698
00:35:59,480 --> 00:36:00,159
Shangwen!

699
00:36:00,280 --> 00:36:01,280
(Top: Yu Jingxiu, Second: Shen Demao)
You're the third!

700
00:36:01,280 --> 00:36:02,239
(Third: Zhou Shangwen)
I'm the third!

701
00:36:02,239 --> 00:36:02,880
You passed!

702
00:36:03,039 --> 00:36:03,599
Mr. Yu!

703
00:36:03,599 --> 00:36:04,360
You're at the top of the list!

704
00:36:04,519 --> 00:36:05,360
You're the Top Scorer!

705
00:36:06,400 --> 00:36:07,800
Congratulations to you, Mr. Yu!

706
00:36:08,480 --> 00:36:09,239
Congratulations!

707
00:36:09,239 --> 00:36:09,760
Thank you.

708
00:36:09,760 --> 00:36:10,159
Thank you.

709
00:36:10,159 --> 00:36:10,800
Congratulations to you, Mr. Yu!

710
00:36:10,800 --> 00:36:11,400
Thank you.

711
00:36:12,079 --> 00:36:13,280
A future pillar of the state!

712
00:36:13,280 --> 00:36:13,840
Indeed!

713
00:36:14,360 --> 00:36:15,119
Impressive!

714
00:36:24,400 --> 00:36:25,119
Madam Yu.

715
00:36:25,639 --> 00:36:26,519
Master Zhao.

716
00:36:26,639 --> 00:36:28,760
I heard Mr. Yu
came in first as Top Scorer.

717
00:36:29,199 --> 00:36:30,679
I've come especially to offer
my congratulations.

718
00:36:31,400 --> 00:36:33,400
The Sixteenth Master left the capital
in a hurry,

719
00:36:33,679 --> 00:36:35,239
and didn't bring any valuables.

720
00:36:35,480 --> 00:36:38,280
So please accept this small token.

721
00:36:38,280 --> 00:36:39,239
My apologies.

722
00:36:42,480 --> 00:36:43,599
I am deeply honored.

723
00:36:44,239 --> 00:36:45,719
My son is still lacking in learning.

724
00:36:46,039 --> 00:36:47,400
It was only by good fortune

725
00:36:47,559 --> 00:36:48,760
and His Highness's blessing

726
00:36:48,760 --> 00:36:49,679
that he passed.

727
00:36:49,920 --> 00:36:50,840
Please rise.

728
00:36:55,280 --> 00:36:56,920
Mr. Yu is both virtuous and talented.

729
00:36:57,119 --> 00:36:58,239
What's more rare

730
00:36:58,440 --> 00:37:00,159
is that he chose
not to seek fame too soon,

731
00:37:00,440 --> 00:37:01,519
in order to help us keep a low profile.

732
00:37:13,639 --> 00:37:15,599
Madam, please be patient
for a few more days.

733
00:37:15,880 --> 00:37:17,119
Once the salt case is solved

734
00:37:17,119 --> 00:37:18,159
and the mission is complete,

735
00:37:18,400 --> 00:37:19,639
you too shall share the success.

736
00:37:21,320 --> 00:37:22,360
I understand.

737
00:37:22,800 --> 00:37:23,960
The Yu family

738
00:37:24,840 --> 00:37:26,079
will continue to act with discretion.

739
00:37:30,840 --> 00:37:32,719
This auspicious sign
of blossoming splendor

740
00:37:33,000 --> 00:37:34,880
has finally come to you.

741
00:37:35,480 --> 00:37:37,920
Mr. Yu became a Top Scorer
in his very first provincial exam.

742
00:37:38,159 --> 00:37:39,599
His future is truly limitless.

743
00:37:40,000 --> 00:37:42,719
If he later scores the other two tops,

744
00:37:43,000 --> 00:37:44,960
wouldn't that be just like in the plays?

745
00:37:44,960 --> 00:37:45,960
Three top honors in a row?

746
00:37:46,400 --> 00:37:47,199
My Lady,

747
00:37:47,199 --> 00:37:49,119
that would make you
a most illustrious lady.

748
00:37:51,360 --> 00:37:52,559
We must ensure

749
00:37:53,000 --> 00:37:54,519
the Deer Banquet is properly prepared.

750
00:37:59,239 --> 00:38:01,119
Have you heard any news
of Fu Tingyun lately?

751
00:38:01,679 --> 00:38:02,679
I heard

752
00:38:02,679 --> 00:38:04,360
her fiance is quite a big shot.

753
00:38:04,679 --> 00:38:06,840
Many families are trying
to curry favor with him.

754
00:38:07,639 --> 00:38:08,960
But I also heard

755
00:38:08,960 --> 00:38:10,039
she's brought shame on herself.

756
00:38:10,320 --> 00:38:11,280
In broad daylight,

757
00:38:11,280 --> 00:38:12,199
she admitted she had eloped.

758
00:38:15,760 --> 00:38:17,039
My Lady,

759
00:38:17,159 --> 00:38:19,000
you're worlds apart from her.

760
00:38:19,159 --> 00:38:20,679
In all of Yongning Prefecture,

761
00:38:21,039 --> 00:38:22,519
which lady

762
00:38:22,719 --> 00:38:23,840
doesn't envy you?

763
00:38:27,559 --> 00:38:28,440
Miss Fan.

764
00:38:28,639 --> 00:38:29,920
Regarding the Deer Banquet,

765
00:38:29,920 --> 00:38:31,800
Madam said to postpone it for now.

766
00:38:32,639 --> 00:38:33,440
Postpone it?

767
00:38:36,840 --> 00:38:38,760
First, we have honored guests.

768
00:38:38,920 --> 00:38:40,039
A noisy feast won't do.

769
00:38:40,880 --> 00:38:41,840
Second,

770
00:38:42,039 --> 00:38:43,159
in a few days,

771
00:38:43,559 --> 00:38:45,320
Jingxiu will leave for the capital exam.

772
00:38:45,320 --> 00:38:46,639
We shouldn't distract him.

773
00:38:51,320 --> 00:38:52,119
Well,

774
00:38:52,880 --> 00:38:54,920
how about hosting a poetry gathering
in my name?

775
00:38:55,199 --> 00:38:56,639
We can rent a garden outside

776
00:38:57,440 --> 00:38:59,480
and invite some ladies
to join the festivity

777
00:39:00,119 --> 00:39:01,679
as a way to thank friends and family.

778
00:39:02,719 --> 00:39:04,159
What do you think, Madam?

779
00:39:08,480 --> 00:39:10,320
Ms. Shu knows a few places.

780
00:39:10,679 --> 00:39:12,119
Have her take you to have a look.

781
00:39:15,880 --> 00:39:16,679
Remember,

782
00:39:17,119 --> 00:39:18,400
keep everything simple.

783
00:39:18,880 --> 00:39:20,199
Be discreet.

784
00:39:22,159 --> 00:39:22,800
Go.

785
00:39:29,119 --> 00:39:30,880
She has improved, hasn't she?

786
00:39:32,039 --> 00:39:33,000
Hosting a poetry gathering.

787
00:39:33,000 --> 00:39:34,360
I'm footing the bill,

788
00:39:34,599 --> 00:39:35,960
but she gets the credit.

789
00:39:36,519 --> 00:39:38,639
Then she'll keep
all the congratulatory gifts,

790
00:39:38,639 --> 00:39:40,679
and win Jingxiu's favor as well.

791
00:39:40,920 --> 00:39:42,239
Such petty schemes

792
00:39:42,440 --> 00:39:44,000
can't escape your notice, Madam.

793
00:39:44,480 --> 00:39:47,159
You simply don't want to let
the young master down,

794
00:39:47,159 --> 00:39:48,360
so you're humoring her.

795
00:39:49,400 --> 00:39:50,960
You know me best.

796
00:39:51,440 --> 00:39:52,159
Take a seat.

797
00:39:55,840 --> 00:39:57,079
I never expected

798
00:39:57,079 --> 00:39:58,440
these little flower cakes

799
00:39:58,760 --> 00:40:01,400
from the imperial kitchen
could be so exquisite.

800
00:40:03,079 --> 00:40:04,440
Send some to Jingxiu.

801
00:40:04,519 --> 00:40:05,559
Let him have a taste.

802
00:40:06,360 --> 00:40:07,280
I'll go right away.

803
00:40:10,400 --> 00:40:12,559
At Cuifu Garden, the banquet
can be humble or lavish.

804
00:40:12,920 --> 00:40:14,440
Ms. Shu suggests

805
00:40:14,440 --> 00:40:15,840
we go with the fifteen-tael spread.

806
00:40:15,960 --> 00:40:17,000
Not overly extravagant.

807
00:40:22,760 --> 00:40:24,559
It's about wit, not cost.

808
00:40:24,760 --> 00:40:26,159
We'll follow it.

809
00:40:26,639 --> 00:40:27,480
Just one thing.

810
00:40:28,000 --> 00:40:29,519
I'll decide on the calligraphy supplies

811
00:40:30,000 --> 00:40:30,800
for the gathering.

812
00:40:31,559 --> 00:40:33,360
Get the Pine-soot ink

813
00:40:33,639 --> 00:40:34,960
and Chengxintang paper.

814
00:40:35,039 --> 00:40:37,159
Pine-soot ink comes from Huizhou.

815
00:40:37,400 --> 00:40:39,400
It may be hard to find on short notice.

816
00:40:39,559 --> 00:40:40,639
Still, we must find it.

817
00:40:41,239 --> 00:40:43,199
I don't have glittering gold headpieces,

818
00:40:44,800 --> 00:40:46,800
or priceless Huzhou silk,

819
00:40:47,280 --> 00:40:49,239
or a decade's worth of Pai Gow skills.

820
00:40:51,320 --> 00:40:53,159
So I'll make elegance my statement.

821
00:40:56,159 --> 00:40:57,840
On the Pine-soot ink sticks

822
00:40:58,039 --> 00:40:59,840
are hidden patterns
of "Five Sons Passing the Exam."

823
00:41:00,400 --> 00:41:01,719
The Chengxintang paper

824
00:41:01,800 --> 00:41:03,679
is crafted like the former dynasty's
imperial style.

825
00:41:04,039 --> 00:41:05,159
In its watermark

826
00:41:05,599 --> 00:41:07,599
is a hidden mark
of "Standing Alone at the Top."

827
00:41:08,000 --> 00:41:08,880
That way,

828
00:41:09,199 --> 00:41:11,320
even if the banquet
uses fifteen-tael spreads,

829
00:41:11,480 --> 00:41:13,519
no one will dare look down on you,
Miss Fan.

830
00:41:15,800 --> 00:41:16,400
Not enough.

831
00:41:17,000 --> 00:41:18,880
Remember Fu Tingyun's gift

832
00:41:19,480 --> 00:41:20,760
at Madam Yan's birthday feast?

833
00:41:21,519 --> 00:41:22,960
Just a few small crabs.

834
00:41:23,199 --> 00:41:24,639
Nothing more than a side dish.

835
00:41:24,639 --> 00:41:25,639
Yet somehow,

836
00:41:25,840 --> 00:41:27,960
it won over all the ladies.

837
00:41:30,159 --> 00:41:31,880
What makes a gift precious
is its rarity.

838
00:41:32,519 --> 00:41:34,320
That's what makes it unforgettable.

839
00:41:35,679 --> 00:41:36,960
We've put thought into this,

840
00:41:37,280 --> 00:41:38,920
but we're still missing some finesse.

841
00:41:40,000 --> 00:41:41,119
We need

842
00:41:41,840 --> 00:41:43,840
something truly unforgettable.

843
00:41:48,000 --> 00:41:50,600
=Next Episode=

844
00:41:50,920 --> 00:41:52,599
Jiuweijiao is such a big shot.

845
00:41:53,039 --> 00:41:54,079
You did business with him

846
00:41:54,079 --> 00:41:55,280
and didn't even tell me?

847
00:41:55,559 --> 00:41:56,599
I told you before,

848
00:41:56,599 --> 00:41:57,880
with the heat on lately,

849
00:41:57,880 --> 00:41:58,960
I need you to be vigilant.

850
00:41:58,960 --> 00:42:00,679
Vigilant!

851
00:42:00,920 --> 00:42:02,480
(You slandered me)

852
00:42:02,480 --> 00:42:03,840
(in front of my future mother-in-law.)

853
00:42:04,119 --> 00:42:06,000
(How can I ever have
a smooth path ahead?)

854
00:42:06,440 --> 00:42:07,639
Even without me,

855
00:42:08,039 --> 00:42:09,360
your days ahead

856
00:42:09,599 --> 00:42:11,360
will never be smooth.

857
00:42:11,920 --> 00:42:12,880
In a few days,

858
00:42:14,199 --> 00:42:15,239
I'm leaving too.

859
00:42:16,039 --> 00:42:16,719
Take care.

860
00:42:17,360 --> 00:42:18,079
Take care.

861
00:42:33,040 --> 00:42:37,360
♪The past brushes by
like a falling leaf♪

862
00:42:40,960 --> 00:42:45,320
♪So light, yet my steps still pause
for you♪

863
00:42:47,440 --> 00:42:52,080
♪Through every rise and fall,
our memories remain without regret♪

864
00:42:52,320 --> 00:42:55,120
♪Carved into the rings of time♪

865
00:42:56,280 --> 00:43:00,920
♪How I wish I could stay
a little longer, but I can't♪

866
00:43:04,120 --> 00:43:10,960
♪I turn away, afraid goodbye will fill
my eyes with tears♪

867
00:43:11,840 --> 00:43:18,360
♪Etched deep within my heart,
yet buried without a word♪

868
00:43:19,320 --> 00:43:22,760
♪The warmth of your hand in mine♪

869
00:43:23,280 --> 00:43:27,480
♪Still makes us want to believe♪

870
00:43:27,760 --> 00:43:33,440
♪One promise for a lifetime,
echoing long after we part♪

871
00:43:45,560 --> 00:43:49,440
♪For one fleeting moment, I found you
in the crowd♪

872
00:43:53,360 --> 00:43:57,360
♪Without a word, you lit up
half my life♪

873
00:43:59,080 --> 00:44:03,760
♪In silence, a love too deep for words♪

874
00:44:04,080 --> 00:44:06,760
♪Kept close within my heart♪

875
00:44:07,840 --> 00:44:12,680
♪From now on, no one else
is worth waiting for♪

876
00:44:16,200 --> 00:44:23,120
♪I turn away, afraid no one
will ever come home to me again♪

877
00:44:24,000 --> 00:44:30,480
♪If we can build our future together,
no storm can chill my heart♪

878
00:44:31,360 --> 00:44:34,880
♪The warmth of your hand in mine♪

879
00:44:35,320 --> 00:44:39,680
♪Still makes us want to believe♪

880
00:44:39,880 --> 00:44:45,600
♪One promise for a lifetime,
echoing long after we part♪