1 00:01:27,000 --> 00:01:30,920 The Scholar and the Emperor 2 00:01:44,800 --> 00:01:45,640 Leyan 3 00:01:50,480 --> 00:01:52,120 Teacher, I've finished the painting. 4 00:01:56,480 --> 00:01:57,680 The brushwork is exquisite. 5 00:01:57,760 --> 00:01:58,680 But… 6 00:01:58,760 --> 00:02:00,400 it lacks a soul. 7 00:02:18,560 --> 00:02:19,800 "Spring Comes Late." 8 00:02:20,520 --> 00:02:22,200 Last night brought word of spring. 9 00:02:22,280 --> 00:02:24,040 My heart rejoices in secret. 10 00:02:24,120 --> 00:02:25,280 My springtime longing is quietly sent. 11 00:02:25,960 --> 00:02:27,400 Only spring knows the affairs of spring. 12 00:02:28,000 --> 00:02:29,160 Is this "Spring Comes Late"? 13 00:02:30,200 --> 00:02:31,520 Since Lingyi passed away, 14 00:02:32,120 --> 00:02:34,560 every day has felt like walking on thin ice. 15 00:02:34,640 --> 00:02:36,320 The winter has been long, 16 00:02:36,400 --> 00:02:38,200 and spring seems forever out of reach. 17 00:02:38,280 --> 00:02:39,520 But that day, 18 00:02:39,600 --> 00:02:41,280 when I laid down the dagger before you, 19 00:02:43,040 --> 00:02:44,280 I finally came to understand. 20 00:02:47,280 --> 00:02:48,680 The dead are gone. 21 00:02:49,240 --> 00:02:51,760 The living must live for themselves. 22 00:02:53,160 --> 00:02:54,160 Leyan. 23 00:02:54,240 --> 00:02:56,400 You gave me a new life. 24 00:02:57,680 --> 00:02:58,640 From now on, 25 00:02:59,280 --> 00:03:01,080 I want to live for myself once more. 26 00:03:03,120 --> 00:03:04,360 Teacher, if you can think this way, 27 00:03:04,440 --> 00:03:05,440 then nothing could be better. 28 00:03:05,520 --> 00:03:06,720 Some time ago, 29 00:03:06,800 --> 00:03:08,720 when I saw you so grief-stricken, 30 00:03:08,800 --> 00:03:10,640 yet still helping Director Meng fight corruption, 31 00:03:11,240 --> 00:03:12,800 I admired you deeply, 32 00:03:12,880 --> 00:03:13,760 but worried about you day and night. 33 00:03:15,080 --> 00:03:17,000 So I painted this spring scene 34 00:03:17,080 --> 00:03:18,160 as a gift for you. 35 00:03:25,680 --> 00:03:26,520 Leyan. 36 00:03:27,400 --> 00:03:29,200 All of this is because of you. 37 00:03:29,280 --> 00:03:30,960 Only when I'm beside you 38 00:03:31,040 --> 00:03:32,760 can I truly be myself. 39 00:03:36,080 --> 00:03:37,680 I know teacher and student have their bounds. 40 00:03:39,280 --> 00:03:41,000 The road ahead will be difficult, 41 00:03:45,040 --> 00:03:46,280 but if I persist… 42 00:03:47,040 --> 00:03:47,880 Leyan. 43 00:03:49,280 --> 00:03:50,480 Would you be willing, 44 00:03:51,400 --> 00:03:52,600 to be brave for me once? 45 00:04:02,400 --> 00:04:04,440 I never understood what love was. 46 00:04:05,560 --> 00:04:07,440 But I saw my parents stand by each other, 47 00:04:08,080 --> 00:04:09,440 supporting one another. 48 00:04:09,520 --> 00:04:11,000 I saw my brother 49 00:04:11,080 --> 00:04:13,240 risk everything to find medicine for Miss Yan. 50 00:04:15,000 --> 00:04:16,400 And I saw you, 51 00:04:16,480 --> 00:04:17,640 Teacher, broken by grief. 52 00:04:19,040 --> 00:04:20,080 Only then did I understand 53 00:04:21,120 --> 00:04:22,800 that love 54 00:04:22,880 --> 00:04:24,440 can make one face death without regret, 55 00:04:25,280 --> 00:04:26,360 and suffer pain that pierces the heart. 56 00:04:30,040 --> 00:04:32,080 I do not want to be trapped by convention 57 00:04:32,960 --> 00:04:34,440 or bound by old proprieties. 58 00:04:37,600 --> 00:04:40,880 Before, you had a family, 59 00:04:42,640 --> 00:04:43,720 so I dared not cross the line. 60 00:04:48,600 --> 00:04:49,560 But today, 61 00:04:50,760 --> 00:04:52,320 I want to say this boldly. 62 00:04:54,760 --> 00:04:55,680 Teacher, 63 00:04:57,720 --> 00:04:59,240 I also have feelings for you. 64 00:05:05,240 --> 00:05:06,240 This gift… 65 00:05:06,320 --> 00:05:07,560 I prepared it long ago. 66 00:05:08,160 --> 00:05:09,720 Today I can finally give it to you. 67 00:05:17,800 --> 00:05:19,120 It is a Heart-Lock. 68 00:05:19,800 --> 00:05:21,320 The cloud patterns on it 69 00:05:21,400 --> 00:05:24,400 were each drawn by my own hand. 70 00:05:25,960 --> 00:05:27,040 Let this heart be the lock, 71 00:05:27,120 --> 00:05:28,520 and the clear wind be the key. 72 00:05:29,160 --> 00:05:32,000 From now on, seeing this lock will recall our first resolve. 73 00:05:32,840 --> 00:05:33,880 May we live this life without regret. 74 00:06:01,720 --> 00:06:03,280 I want to protect you for a lifetime. 75 00:06:04,240 --> 00:06:05,280 Would you be willing, 76 00:06:06,800 --> 00:06:07,760 to be brave for me once? 77 00:06:41,280 --> 00:06:43,600 Who are you, barging into my residence? 78 00:06:43,680 --> 00:06:45,200 You have some nerve. 79 00:06:45,280 --> 00:06:48,160 Not as much as you, Right Chancellor. 80 00:06:48,240 --> 00:06:50,000 You raised the Tiger's Roar Gang as your claws, 81 00:06:50,080 --> 00:06:52,120 and once you'd used them up, 82 00:06:52,200 --> 00:06:53,960 even your own flesh-and-blood brother 83 00:06:54,040 --> 00:06:55,320 was someone you could murder. 84 00:06:58,240 --> 00:07:00,400 A skulking coward like you 85 00:07:01,160 --> 00:07:03,120 dares threaten me with such nonsense? 86 00:07:05,920 --> 00:07:08,600 Every dirty deal you made with Ling Yunfei 87 00:07:08,680 --> 00:07:10,080 is enough to condemn your entire clan. 88 00:07:15,040 --> 00:07:16,440 Who are you? 89 00:07:16,520 --> 00:07:17,960 How do you know so much? 90 00:07:18,040 --> 00:07:20,040 Who I am is unimportant. 91 00:07:20,120 --> 00:07:22,720 What matters is that within three days, 92 00:07:22,800 --> 00:07:25,600 you hand over Qingzhou's garrison map. 93 00:07:27,080 --> 00:07:29,120 Otherwise, you wouldn't want copies of this ledger 94 00:07:29,880 --> 00:07:31,920 on Meng Tinghui's desk, would you? 95 00:07:37,640 --> 00:07:39,440 The garrison map is a state secret. 96 00:07:40,440 --> 00:07:41,560 If I steal it for you, 97 00:07:42,400 --> 00:07:44,760 I will still die when the truth comes out. 98 00:07:44,840 --> 00:07:47,520 Do you think doing nothing will save you? 99 00:07:48,480 --> 00:07:50,960 Meng Tinghui will soon trace it all to you. 100 00:07:51,480 --> 00:07:54,480 If you sit and wait, you will still die. 101 00:07:56,600 --> 00:07:58,000 If you cooperate, 102 00:07:58,480 --> 00:08:00,800 I can offer you a way out. 103 00:08:02,920 --> 00:08:04,160 What way? 104 00:08:07,040 --> 00:08:09,520 Help your prized student, Shen Zhili, 105 00:08:09,600 --> 00:08:10,640 become Empress. 106 00:08:11,240 --> 00:08:12,920 When a new reign begins, 107 00:08:13,000 --> 00:08:15,320 you will remain chief of the officials. 108 00:08:15,400 --> 00:08:16,320 And should disaster strike, 109 00:08:16,880 --> 00:08:19,240 she will be your best safeguard. 110 00:08:22,680 --> 00:08:23,840 If we're to cooperate, 111 00:08:24,640 --> 00:08:26,000 we should be honest with each other. 112 00:08:27,800 --> 00:08:29,760 I need to know who you are as well. 113 00:08:43,840 --> 00:08:44,680 You're back. 114 00:08:48,680 --> 00:08:49,760 You went to the Gu residence again. 115 00:08:50,840 --> 00:08:52,760 That is my business. It has nothing to do with you. 116 00:08:53,480 --> 00:08:54,760 Between us, 117 00:08:54,840 --> 00:08:56,320 can we not even speak anymore? 118 00:08:58,520 --> 00:09:01,160 Ever since you learned what the peachwood meant, 119 00:09:01,240 --> 00:09:02,480 you've been avoiding me. 120 00:09:03,200 --> 00:09:04,840 How long will you keep running from me? 121 00:09:08,840 --> 00:09:09,840 It isn't that we cannot speak. 122 00:09:10,760 --> 00:09:12,880 There are simply things you should not say. 123 00:09:12,960 --> 00:09:15,240 Anian, you're still young. 124 00:09:15,320 --> 00:09:17,000 My feelings have nothing to do with age. 125 00:09:17,080 --> 00:09:19,200 When my whole family was gone but me, 126 00:09:20,400 --> 00:09:21,880 you used your handkerchief 127 00:09:21,960 --> 00:09:23,560 to bandage my injured palm. 128 00:09:23,640 --> 00:09:24,840 You told me mastering martial arts 129 00:09:24,920 --> 00:09:26,080 was the best way to honor them. 130 00:09:26,800 --> 00:09:27,720 It was also you 131 00:09:28,200 --> 00:09:30,400 who brought me close to your parents and brother, 132 00:09:30,480 --> 00:09:32,360 and had me spar with His Majesty and Huang Bo. 133 00:09:32,440 --> 00:09:34,480 You stayed beside me through my darkest days. 134 00:09:35,120 --> 00:09:37,000 From then on, I swore 135 00:09:37,080 --> 00:09:38,680 I would grow up quickly and protect you. 136 00:09:41,520 --> 00:09:42,360 Anian. 137 00:09:42,920 --> 00:09:43,920 You've misunderstood. 138 00:09:44,800 --> 00:09:47,040 In my heart, you're a younger brother. 139 00:09:47,120 --> 00:09:48,240 I have misunderstood nothing. 140 00:09:49,200 --> 00:09:50,160 I know exactly what I feel. 141 00:09:50,960 --> 00:09:51,840 Besides, 142 00:09:51,920 --> 00:09:53,560 we share no blood relation. 143 00:09:55,000 --> 00:09:56,720 You call my parents Father and Mother, 144 00:09:56,800 --> 00:09:57,960 and Zhishu your brother. 145 00:09:58,680 --> 00:10:00,560 Is that not family affection? 146 00:10:00,640 --> 00:10:01,920 Wouldn't that make things easier? 147 00:10:03,120 --> 00:10:05,000 If we end up together someday, 148 00:10:05,080 --> 00:10:06,520 we won't even need to change how we address them. 149 00:10:06,600 --> 00:10:08,200 Stop twisting my words. 150 00:10:09,000 --> 00:10:11,040 I'm older than you, so I am your sister. 151 00:10:11,120 --> 00:10:12,960 You're still young. 152 00:10:13,040 --> 00:10:14,640 Perhaps you cannot yet tell what you truly feel. 153 00:10:14,720 --> 00:10:17,120 When you meet a better woman someday, 154 00:10:17,200 --> 00:10:18,680 you'll understand the difference. 155 00:10:22,400 --> 00:10:24,120 There is no woman better than you. 156 00:10:24,920 --> 00:10:26,080 Zhili. 157 00:10:26,160 --> 00:10:28,360 I have long known my own heart. 158 00:10:30,400 --> 00:10:31,480 But what about you? 159 00:10:32,440 --> 00:10:33,960 Can you truly tell what you feel for him? 160 00:10:36,960 --> 00:10:38,600 I know my own heart. 161 00:10:39,760 --> 00:10:41,240 I need no one else's judgment. 162 00:10:43,640 --> 00:10:44,960 So in your heart, 163 00:10:46,160 --> 00:10:47,560 compared with the Right Chancellor, 164 00:10:48,320 --> 00:10:49,720 I have become an outsider. 165 00:10:52,200 --> 00:10:54,520 I knew confessing to you today 166 00:10:54,600 --> 00:10:56,280 would create distance between us. 167 00:10:56,360 --> 00:10:57,440 But I do not regret it. 168 00:10:58,320 --> 00:10:59,640 I will wait as long as it takes. 169 00:11:00,200 --> 00:11:01,400 Even if it takes a lifetime, 170 00:11:02,240 --> 00:11:03,320 I will still wait. 171 00:11:05,080 --> 00:11:06,480 Calm down first. 172 00:11:07,120 --> 00:11:08,640 Don't let impulse ruin what we have. 173 00:11:08,720 --> 00:11:11,360 I left the peachwood in your room. 174 00:11:14,560 --> 00:11:15,920 I have made myself very clear. 175 00:11:16,000 --> 00:11:17,000 Don't… 176 00:11:18,640 --> 00:11:20,000 You like reading old laws and statutes. 177 00:11:21,000 --> 00:11:22,360 Whenever you go out, 178 00:11:22,440 --> 00:11:23,720 you always bring so many bamboo slips. 179 00:11:23,800 --> 00:11:25,680 I thought they were cumbersome to search, 180 00:11:25,760 --> 00:11:27,640 so I took the cases and statutes you consult most often 181 00:11:27,720 --> 00:11:29,160 and recopied them all here. 182 00:11:29,880 --> 00:11:31,440 I made the writing larger, 183 00:11:31,520 --> 00:11:32,840 so when you read at night, 184 00:11:32,920 --> 00:11:33,920 you won't strain your eyes. 185 00:11:36,520 --> 00:11:37,760 You needn't feel burdened. 186 00:11:38,560 --> 00:11:40,120 I don't ask that you return my feelings. 187 00:11:40,960 --> 00:11:41,880 I only hope 188 00:11:42,760 --> 00:11:44,840 you can be with the one you truly love… 189 00:11:44,920 --> 00:11:46,080 side by side. 190 00:12:08,360 --> 00:12:09,840 Provisions are the lifeblood of an army. 191 00:12:09,920 --> 00:12:11,840 Pang Mu's negligence cost us the grain. 192 00:12:11,920 --> 00:12:12,760 Execute him at once. 193 00:12:12,840 --> 00:12:14,760 General Huo, Lord Shen, 194 00:12:14,840 --> 00:12:15,680 have mercy! 195 00:12:16,320 --> 00:12:17,400 Lord Shen. 196 00:12:17,480 --> 00:12:18,560 Although it was under Pang Mu's watch 197 00:12:18,640 --> 00:12:20,200 that the court's thirty thousand shi of grain was lost, 198 00:12:20,280 --> 00:12:22,560 but the raiders were trained and fierce. 199 00:12:22,640 --> 00:12:23,720 His crime does not warrant death. 200 00:12:23,800 --> 00:12:24,840 Does not warrant death? 201 00:12:24,920 --> 00:12:26,760 Beijian cavalry is barely a hundred li away. 202 00:12:26,840 --> 00:12:28,040 If they exploit this opening now, 203 00:12:28,120 --> 00:12:29,040 and our forces lack provisions, 204 00:12:29,120 --> 00:12:30,560 Qingzhou's defenses could fall. 205 00:12:30,640 --> 00:12:31,960 We need not wait for His Majesty's punishment. 206 00:12:32,040 --> 00:12:33,760 You may all kill yourselves in apology. 207 00:12:33,840 --> 00:12:34,720 Take him away. 208 00:12:36,600 --> 00:12:37,440 General Huo. 209 00:12:37,520 --> 00:12:38,800 General Huo! 210 00:12:38,880 --> 00:12:40,320 Lord Shen! 211 00:12:40,400 --> 00:12:41,240 Lord Shen! 212 00:12:41,320 --> 00:12:43,240 Our priority is finding grain. 213 00:12:43,320 --> 00:12:44,480 I've sent an urgent report to court, 214 00:12:44,560 --> 00:12:45,760 but the allocation process is cumbersome. 215 00:12:45,840 --> 00:12:47,880 Distant aid may come too late. 216 00:12:47,960 --> 00:12:50,040 The granaries around Qingzhou 217 00:12:50,120 --> 00:12:51,800 can sustain us for only seven days. 218 00:12:53,920 --> 00:12:55,360 Have the troops hold out for seven days. 219 00:12:56,040 --> 00:12:57,080 As for the thirty thousand shi, 220 00:12:57,680 --> 00:12:58,560 I will find a way. 221 00:13:03,440 --> 00:13:04,280 Your Majesty. 222 00:13:05,480 --> 00:13:06,800 Your Majesty! 223 00:13:06,880 --> 00:13:07,880 My brother sent a letter. 224 00:13:12,520 --> 00:13:14,800 Your Majesty, I have infiltrated the Blood Moon Society. 225 00:13:14,880 --> 00:13:16,000 My investigation shows 226 00:13:16,080 --> 00:13:17,880 its leader uses the alias Mr. Shangguan 227 00:13:17,960 --> 00:13:19,440 and is likely hiding in the capital. 228 00:13:19,520 --> 00:13:21,600 Zhongwan remnants are entrenched in Qingzhou 229 00:13:21,680 --> 00:13:22,880 and are conspiring with Beijian, 230 00:13:22,960 --> 00:13:25,160 using the stolen grain to provoke a border war. 231 00:13:25,240 --> 00:13:26,560 I have planted agents among them. 232 00:13:26,640 --> 00:13:28,160 But the military situation is urgent. 233 00:13:28,240 --> 00:13:29,840 Please prepare defenses at once. 234 00:13:29,920 --> 00:13:32,560 Beijian has long coveted Qingzhou's iron mines. 235 00:13:32,640 --> 00:13:34,480 If the Zhongwan remnants tempt them with that, 236 00:13:34,560 --> 00:13:36,640 Beijian may betray us 237 00:13:36,720 --> 00:13:37,560 and tear up the treaty. 238 00:13:37,640 --> 00:13:39,280 If Zhongwan and Beijian join forces, 239 00:13:39,960 --> 00:13:42,480 war may erupt along the border. 240 00:13:42,560 --> 00:13:44,040 Issue orders at once. 241 00:13:44,120 --> 00:13:45,800 Have the Ministry of War send grain to Qingzhou, 242 00:13:45,880 --> 00:13:48,120 and secretly deploy Shazhou Camp elites. 243 00:13:48,200 --> 00:13:50,800 Have Zhishu find a chance to disrupt 244 00:13:50,880 --> 00:13:52,440 the Zhongwan-Beijian conspiracy. 245 00:13:52,520 --> 00:13:53,720 But remind him 246 00:13:53,800 --> 00:13:55,680 his own safety comes first. 247 00:13:56,360 --> 00:13:57,640 I'll see to it at once. 248 00:14:10,280 --> 00:14:11,880 Chairman Chen, rest assured. 249 00:14:11,960 --> 00:14:14,280 The contract will reach Qingzhou within three days. 250 00:14:14,360 --> 00:14:15,360 As for Bofeng Tavern's branch, 251 00:14:15,440 --> 00:14:17,160 we'll split the profits thirty-seventy as agreed. 252 00:14:17,240 --> 00:14:19,160 Manager Yan is certainly decisive. 253 00:14:19,240 --> 00:14:20,840 We will await the contract. 254 00:14:34,560 --> 00:14:35,800 Father. 255 00:14:35,880 --> 00:14:37,120 The wind and sand are heavy outside. 256 00:14:37,200 --> 00:14:38,520 Why did you come out? 257 00:14:39,240 --> 00:14:42,200 When you insisted on following Meng Tinghui to the capital, 258 00:14:42,280 --> 00:14:44,880 I was so angry I smashed three tea sets. 259 00:14:45,400 --> 00:14:46,520 But now, 260 00:14:46,600 --> 00:14:47,880 following her has let you see 261 00:14:47,960 --> 00:14:49,720 a wider world. 262 00:14:50,440 --> 00:14:52,400 Watching you negotiate 263 00:14:52,480 --> 00:14:53,560 with trade guilds from every prefecture, 264 00:14:54,240 --> 00:14:57,120 even an old merchant like me is impressed. 265 00:14:59,680 --> 00:15:00,520 My daughter, 266 00:15:03,840 --> 00:15:05,440 you've grown up. 267 00:15:09,080 --> 00:15:09,920 Father. 268 00:15:11,400 --> 00:15:12,840 Before… 269 00:15:12,920 --> 00:15:15,040 you always opposed me appearing in public 270 00:15:15,120 --> 00:15:16,640 and opposed me doing business. 271 00:15:16,720 --> 00:15:19,400 This is the first time you've praised Mengmeng and me. 272 00:15:21,520 --> 00:15:23,440 Since Ding Chong fell, 273 00:15:23,520 --> 00:15:25,760 I've watched Shazhou's merchant caravans 274 00:15:25,840 --> 00:15:27,360 increase by seventy percent. 275 00:15:27,440 --> 00:15:30,480 Not only is business easier for merchants, 276 00:15:30,560 --> 00:15:32,640 even poor households 277 00:15:32,720 --> 00:15:34,280 can now afford meat. 278 00:15:34,360 --> 00:15:35,960 This stubborn old stone of a heart 279 00:15:36,800 --> 00:15:39,680 has slowly been warmed by you two. 280 00:15:44,200 --> 00:15:45,320 Silly girl. 281 00:15:45,400 --> 00:15:46,760 All right, all right. 282 00:15:48,520 --> 00:15:49,480 You are now 283 00:15:49,560 --> 00:15:51,400 the head of the Yan family's business. 284 00:15:52,080 --> 00:15:54,320 You can't burst into tears so easily. 285 00:16:03,360 --> 00:16:04,600 Fuzhi. 286 00:16:04,680 --> 00:16:05,880 Zhishu. 287 00:16:06,680 --> 00:16:08,320 Master Yan, I came to see… 288 00:16:10,760 --> 00:16:11,600 Father-in-law. 289 00:16:13,520 --> 00:16:15,840 Do you really think I'm senile? 290 00:16:15,920 --> 00:16:18,840 This fake courtship act of yours— 291 00:16:18,920 --> 00:16:21,120 how long will you keep it up? 292 00:16:23,920 --> 00:16:25,320 Father. 293 00:16:25,400 --> 00:16:27,080 I had no choice. 294 00:16:27,160 --> 00:16:29,120 You deceived me first. 295 00:16:29,200 --> 00:16:31,000 I didn't mean to deceive you. 296 00:16:32,440 --> 00:16:33,280 Uncle Yan. 297 00:16:33,360 --> 00:16:34,720 This wasn't Fuzhi's fault. 298 00:16:34,800 --> 00:16:37,080 I was the one who said it on my own. 299 00:16:37,600 --> 00:16:39,160 If you must blame someone, blame me. 300 00:16:41,320 --> 00:16:42,600 Enough. 301 00:16:42,680 --> 00:16:44,000 I've thought it through now. 302 00:16:44,600 --> 00:16:45,840 I won't force you to marry. 303 00:16:45,920 --> 00:16:48,640 So stop putting on an act for me. 304 00:16:48,720 --> 00:16:49,560 Fuzhi. 305 00:16:49,640 --> 00:16:52,000 You are still a woman, after all. 306 00:16:52,080 --> 00:16:54,080 You cannot gamble with your reputation. 307 00:16:54,160 --> 00:16:56,280 You may be capable on your own, 308 00:16:56,360 --> 00:16:58,960 and you may earn mountains of gold, 309 00:16:59,040 --> 00:17:01,840 but I still hope someone will be there 310 00:17:01,920 --> 00:17:04,360 to care for you and cherish you. 311 00:17:07,720 --> 00:17:08,960 Uncle Yan. 312 00:17:09,040 --> 00:17:11,000 The act may have been false, but my feelings are real. 313 00:17:11,600 --> 00:17:13,080 Fuzhi and I love each other. 314 00:17:13,880 --> 00:17:15,160 I will never fail her. 315 00:17:16,600 --> 00:17:18,280 Hearing that from you, Lord Shen, 316 00:17:18,360 --> 00:17:19,560 puts my heart at ease. 317 00:17:19,640 --> 00:17:21,760 You've come a long way as our guest. 318 00:17:21,840 --> 00:17:24,160 I'll have food and wine prepared for you. 319 00:17:25,200 --> 00:17:26,520 The military situation is urgent. 320 00:17:26,600 --> 00:17:27,880 I came to Fuzhi today 321 00:17:27,960 --> 00:17:29,000 to ask an important favor. 322 00:17:29,080 --> 00:17:31,200 Between us, why call it a favor? 323 00:17:33,720 --> 00:17:36,120 Fuzhi, this is a grave matter. 324 00:17:36,880 --> 00:17:39,000 Qingzhou Camp urgently needs thirty thousand shi of grain. 325 00:17:39,080 --> 00:17:40,720 It must arrive within seven days. 326 00:17:41,480 --> 00:17:43,320 If we wait for court approval, 327 00:17:43,400 --> 00:17:45,200 the aid will come too late. 328 00:17:45,280 --> 00:17:46,960 I may run taverns, 329 00:17:47,800 --> 00:17:48,960 But within seven days, 330 00:17:49,040 --> 00:17:51,280 gathering thirty thousand shi of grain may be… 331 00:17:53,040 --> 00:17:55,200 Father, I'm still new to business in Shazhou. 332 00:17:55,280 --> 00:17:57,800 Could you help by acting as guarantor 333 00:17:57,880 --> 00:18:00,120 and buying private grain from friendly merchants? 334 00:18:00,200 --> 00:18:02,160 -Even at a premium… -Husband. 335 00:18:02,240 --> 00:18:03,080 Absolutely not. 336 00:18:04,640 --> 00:18:05,840 Thirty thousand shi of grain 337 00:18:05,920 --> 00:18:08,000 would empty our family coffers. 338 00:18:09,640 --> 00:18:11,040 The Shen family may be prestigious, 339 00:18:11,120 --> 00:18:12,680 but their annual stipend is barely a hundred taels. 340 00:18:12,760 --> 00:18:14,400 The betrothal gifts haven't even arrived, 341 00:18:14,480 --> 00:18:16,480 and now our Yan family must pay instead? 342 00:18:16,560 --> 00:18:18,200 If Master Yan is willing to help, 343 00:18:18,280 --> 00:18:19,600 I can sign an IOU right now. 344 00:18:19,680 --> 00:18:20,960 I will repay every bit someday. 345 00:18:21,040 --> 00:18:21,960 Husband. 346 00:18:23,080 --> 00:18:25,520 Officials have two mouths: one to borrow, one to deny. 347 00:18:25,600 --> 00:18:27,560 We've seen that before. 348 00:18:29,680 --> 00:18:32,000 Do you really want Fuzhi, 349 00:18:32,080 --> 00:18:34,320 or are you after our family's money? 350 00:18:34,400 --> 00:18:36,120 Just because you live and breathe money 351 00:18:36,200 --> 00:18:38,200 doesn't mean everyone else does. 352 00:18:38,280 --> 00:18:39,600 Husband. 353 00:18:39,680 --> 00:18:41,920 I'm only thinking of our family. 354 00:18:42,000 --> 00:18:44,040 The Yan family's money 355 00:18:44,120 --> 00:18:45,400 doesn't fall from the sky. 356 00:18:45,480 --> 00:18:47,000 How can we throw it around like this? 357 00:18:50,040 --> 00:18:52,040 If Lord Shen is urgently gathering grain, 358 00:18:52,720 --> 00:18:55,240 could it be those Beijian wolves…? 359 00:18:57,160 --> 00:18:59,280 Master Yan, to tell you the truth, 360 00:19:00,120 --> 00:19:01,800 the situation is still unclear. 361 00:19:01,880 --> 00:19:02,920 War has not broken out, 362 00:19:03,000 --> 00:19:04,600 but we cannot let our guard down. 363 00:19:15,880 --> 00:19:18,240 If Lord Shen came in person, 364 00:19:18,320 --> 00:19:19,800 it must be extremely urgent 365 00:19:19,880 --> 00:19:21,880 and shows his trust in our Yan family. 366 00:19:21,960 --> 00:19:24,360 We may be merchants, 367 00:19:24,440 --> 00:19:26,520 but we understand duty to our country. 368 00:19:27,560 --> 00:19:28,400 Fuzhi. 369 00:19:29,040 --> 00:19:30,600 This is my seal. 370 00:19:30,680 --> 00:19:32,360 Every Yan family granary 371 00:19:32,440 --> 00:19:33,520 is at your disposal. 372 00:19:33,600 --> 00:19:34,760 If that is not enough, 373 00:19:34,840 --> 00:19:37,080 from today onward, every Yan shop 374 00:19:37,160 --> 00:19:38,800 will buy grain and sell no other goods. 375 00:19:38,880 --> 00:19:40,600 We'll also purchase private grain 376 00:19:40,680 --> 00:19:41,880 from the other major merchants. 377 00:19:44,040 --> 00:19:44,920 Thank you, Master Yan. 378 00:19:45,000 --> 00:19:46,080 I'll write the IOU at once. 379 00:19:46,800 --> 00:19:47,640 Lord Shen, 380 00:19:47,720 --> 00:19:48,800 do you take me 381 00:19:48,880 --> 00:19:51,000 for a merchant who cares only for profit? 382 00:19:51,080 --> 00:19:51,920 Husband. 383 00:19:52,000 --> 00:19:54,120 Even if you won't think of yourself, 384 00:19:54,800 --> 00:19:56,480 think of Song'er. 385 00:19:56,560 --> 00:19:58,640 If war truly breaks out, 386 00:19:58,720 --> 00:20:01,080 even thirty thousand shi may not be enough. 387 00:20:01,160 --> 00:20:02,360 Then 388 00:20:02,440 --> 00:20:04,480 what good is a mere IOU? 389 00:20:04,560 --> 00:20:06,120 Merchants can only prosper 390 00:20:06,200 --> 00:20:07,760 in times of peace. 391 00:20:07,840 --> 00:20:09,640 Only because soldiers defend the realm 392 00:20:09,720 --> 00:20:12,200 can people like us live in wealth and safety. 393 00:20:12,280 --> 00:20:14,240 You shortsighted woman, 394 00:20:15,000 --> 00:20:16,240 stop making trouble. 395 00:20:17,120 --> 00:20:18,160 Husband. 396 00:20:18,840 --> 00:20:20,160 Take Madam back inside. 397 00:20:21,480 --> 00:20:22,720 Madam, this way. 398 00:20:27,560 --> 00:20:28,720 Madam. 399 00:20:34,000 --> 00:20:35,360 Father, thank you. 400 00:20:36,920 --> 00:20:38,840 On behalf of the soldiers, thank you, Fuzhi. 401 00:20:38,920 --> 00:20:39,920 Thank you, Master Yan. 402 00:20:40,000 --> 00:20:42,000 Silly daughter, worthy son-in-law, 403 00:20:42,080 --> 00:20:42,920 why be so formal with me? 404 00:20:43,000 --> 00:20:44,760 Come, get up. 405 00:20:48,560 --> 00:20:49,400 Fuzhi. 406 00:20:49,480 --> 00:20:51,880 I'll arrange the grain wagons at once. 407 00:20:51,960 --> 00:20:53,240 I still have urgent duties, 408 00:20:53,320 --> 00:20:54,160 so I cannot stay with you. 409 00:20:54,240 --> 00:20:55,520 Go take care of your work. 410 00:20:55,600 --> 00:20:56,640 As for the grain, 411 00:20:56,720 --> 00:20:57,840 I'll see it done. 412 00:21:01,080 --> 00:21:01,920 Shen Zhishu. 413 00:21:14,160 --> 00:21:15,240 Go on. 414 00:21:18,040 --> 00:21:19,680 Shen Zhishu, listen carefully. 415 00:21:19,760 --> 00:21:21,680 I'm famous in Shazhou for loving handsome men. 416 00:21:21,760 --> 00:21:23,880 If you come back with even one new scar, 417 00:21:23,960 --> 00:21:25,720 I'll dump you. 418 00:21:25,800 --> 00:21:26,640 Then I'll find ten men 419 00:21:26,720 --> 00:21:28,200 even more handsome than you. 420 00:21:28,280 --> 00:21:29,120 That won't do. 421 00:21:31,120 --> 00:21:32,240 I already have three scars. 422 00:21:32,320 --> 00:21:33,600 My father left them when he beat me as a child. 423 00:21:33,680 --> 00:21:34,920 You'd better inspect them first. 424 00:21:35,000 --> 00:21:36,240 Otherwise, when I return, 425 00:21:36,320 --> 00:21:37,600 I might get dumped for nothing. 426 00:21:38,400 --> 00:21:39,240 Here. Look. 427 00:21:39,320 --> 00:21:40,720 Shen Zhishu. 428 00:21:45,240 --> 00:21:46,240 All right. 429 00:21:47,400 --> 00:21:48,440 I was teasing you. 430 00:21:54,680 --> 00:21:56,480 What I mean is, 431 00:21:56,560 --> 00:21:58,600 come back safe and sound. 432 00:21:58,680 --> 00:21:59,960 Not even a hair may be missing. 433 00:22:02,480 --> 00:22:03,560 Do you hear me? 434 00:22:15,840 --> 00:22:16,840 Wait for me. 435 00:22:27,000 --> 00:22:27,840 I will. 436 00:22:39,680 --> 00:22:40,680 Your Majesty. 437 00:22:40,760 --> 00:22:42,920 Beijian's envoy has submitted three state letters 438 00:22:43,000 --> 00:22:44,760 pressing us for an answer on the marriage. 439 00:22:45,240 --> 00:22:46,520 I… 440 00:22:46,600 --> 00:22:48,960 took the liberty of consulting the ministers. 441 00:22:49,600 --> 00:22:52,200 We believe Shen Zhili, daughter of Grand Tutor Shen, 442 00:22:52,280 --> 00:22:53,800 is both virtuous and talented, 443 00:22:53,880 --> 00:22:55,160 gracious and dignified, 444 00:22:55,240 --> 00:22:57,400 and worthy to serve as a model for all women. 445 00:22:58,160 --> 00:23:00,960 I respectfully ask Your Majesty 446 00:23:01,040 --> 00:23:03,480 to appoint Shen Zhili as Empress. 447 00:23:03,560 --> 00:23:05,600 I second the motion. 448 00:23:08,360 --> 00:23:10,480 Your Majesty, I previously believed 449 00:23:10,560 --> 00:23:13,160 recommending Beijian's Divine Maiden could secure the border. 450 00:23:13,240 --> 00:23:14,400 But after seeing the Left Chancellor 451 00:23:14,480 --> 00:23:15,720 so passionately favor resistance, 452 00:23:15,800 --> 00:23:17,320 I reconsidered the matter 453 00:23:17,400 --> 00:23:19,560 and found his reasoning sound. 454 00:23:19,640 --> 00:23:21,240 The Shen family is highly distinguished, 455 00:23:21,320 --> 00:23:22,840 a household steeped in scholarship and propriety, 456 00:23:22,920 --> 00:23:24,520 renowned for its spotless reputation. 457 00:23:24,600 --> 00:23:26,280 She is indeed the finest choice for Empress. 458 00:23:26,360 --> 00:23:28,840 -I second the motion. -I second the motion. 459 00:23:32,120 --> 00:23:33,120 The two Chancellors 460 00:23:33,200 --> 00:23:35,600 are remarkably united today. 461 00:23:35,680 --> 00:23:36,680 Your Majesty, please judge wisely. 462 00:23:37,440 --> 00:23:40,720 The Right Chancellor and I did disagree before. 463 00:23:40,800 --> 00:23:42,480 But our agreement today 464 00:23:42,560 --> 00:23:44,080 proves precisely 465 00:23:44,160 --> 00:23:46,160 that Miss Shen 466 00:23:46,240 --> 00:23:49,040 is the choice the court supports. 467 00:23:49,120 --> 00:23:50,600 The Left Chancellor is correct. 468 00:23:52,760 --> 00:23:55,640 I urge Your Majesty to appoint an Empress soon 469 00:23:55,720 --> 00:23:56,640 to secure the state 470 00:23:56,720 --> 00:23:57,960 and continue the imperial line. 471 00:23:58,040 --> 00:23:59,440 You have all certainly… 472 00:23:59,520 --> 00:24:00,720 thought of everything for me. 473 00:24:01,640 --> 00:24:03,360 But I have always respected the Shen family. 474 00:24:04,200 --> 00:24:07,000 Since you jointly recommend Shen Zhili as Empress, 475 00:24:07,080 --> 00:24:08,280 shouldn't you first ask 476 00:24:08,360 --> 00:24:09,840 Grand Tutor Shen what he thinks? 477 00:24:09,920 --> 00:24:10,800 I 478 00:24:11,800 --> 00:24:13,920 feared Your Majesty might have reservations, 479 00:24:14,480 --> 00:24:17,880 so I already asked Grand Tutor Shen to co-sign the memorial. 480 00:24:22,640 --> 00:24:24,160 Your Majesty. 481 00:24:24,240 --> 00:24:26,920 The joint recommendation has been submitted. 482 00:24:27,640 --> 00:24:29,880 I will order the Ministry of Rites 483 00:24:29,960 --> 00:24:32,400 to prepare the ancestral ceremony, 484 00:24:32,480 --> 00:24:35,520 and the Imperial Astronomical Bureau to choose an auspicious date. 485 00:24:35,600 --> 00:24:37,600 Please issue the decree soon 486 00:24:38,280 --> 00:24:41,440 and announce the Empress-designate to the realm. 487 00:24:44,240 --> 00:24:46,000 -I second the motion. -I second the motion. 488 00:24:46,840 --> 00:24:48,720 -I second the motion. -I second the motion. 489 00:24:49,360 --> 00:24:51,560 -I second the motion. -I second the motion. 490 00:25:00,720 --> 00:25:03,080 Whatever happens at court, 491 00:25:03,160 --> 00:25:05,400 Grand Tutor Shen has always stood behind me. 492 00:25:06,240 --> 00:25:07,360 Why this time…? 493 00:25:07,440 --> 00:25:08,600 I am doing this 494 00:25:09,200 --> 00:25:11,720 to end Beijian's ambitions, 495 00:25:11,800 --> 00:25:13,040 and also to end Your Majesty's 496 00:25:13,120 --> 00:25:15,520 improper hopes regarding Meng Tinghui. 497 00:25:16,280 --> 00:25:17,880 You may hide it from the whole realm, 498 00:25:17,960 --> 00:25:19,240 but you cannot hide it from me. 499 00:25:19,320 --> 00:25:21,480 When Your Majesty rewarded Meng Tinghui before, 500 00:25:21,560 --> 00:25:22,960 I said nothing 501 00:25:23,040 --> 00:25:25,000 because I trusted Your Majesty's judgment. 502 00:25:25,080 --> 00:25:28,600 But Meng Tinghui's identity as Zhongwan's princess 503 00:25:28,680 --> 00:25:30,960 means she can never be yours. 504 00:25:31,040 --> 00:25:33,280 After careful thought, only this 505 00:25:33,360 --> 00:25:36,280 can make Your Majesty distance yourself from her. 506 00:25:36,360 --> 00:25:37,760 But Meng Tinghui 507 00:25:37,840 --> 00:25:40,600 knows nothing of her own origins. 508 00:25:40,680 --> 00:25:43,400 Even if the old Zhongwan faction has plans for her, 509 00:25:43,480 --> 00:25:44,560 I will deal with them personally. 510 00:25:44,640 --> 00:25:46,280 I will never let her be dragged into it. 511 00:25:47,400 --> 00:25:50,000 Why must birth create such an insurmountable divide? 512 00:25:50,080 --> 00:25:52,760 The Zhongwan remnants are undeniably plotting restoration. 513 00:25:52,840 --> 00:25:55,200 If she learns the truth someday, 514 00:25:55,280 --> 00:25:57,480 faced with national and family hatred, 515 00:25:57,560 --> 00:25:59,400 who can predict what she will choose? 516 00:25:59,480 --> 00:26:01,000 For Daning's stability, 517 00:26:01,080 --> 00:26:03,120 I dare not rely on chance. 518 00:26:05,200 --> 00:26:08,640 The late Emperor granted the Shen family the Royal Command Tally, 519 00:26:09,320 --> 00:26:11,880 giving me authority over life and death 520 00:26:11,960 --> 00:26:13,960 and bringing our family supreme honor. 521 00:26:14,040 --> 00:26:15,280 Today, 522 00:26:16,080 --> 00:26:18,720 With this tally, I implore Your Majesty 523 00:26:18,800 --> 00:26:21,040 to accept the Chancellors' and ministers' recommendation 524 00:26:21,120 --> 00:26:24,480 -and appoint Zhili as Empress. -Grand Tutor Shen. 525 00:26:27,600 --> 00:26:29,600 Even you would force me? 526 00:26:30,200 --> 00:26:33,400 The ministers all have motives for promoting Zhili, 527 00:26:33,480 --> 00:26:34,800 but I promise this: 528 00:26:34,880 --> 00:26:37,560 the Shen family puts Your Majesty and Daning first 529 00:26:37,640 --> 00:26:39,880 and will never be swayed by any faction. 530 00:26:39,960 --> 00:26:41,640 After weighing everything repeatedly, 531 00:26:41,720 --> 00:26:43,040 Zhili… 532 00:26:43,120 --> 00:26:46,320 is indeed the best choice for Empress. 533 00:26:47,760 --> 00:26:48,800 To avoid suspicion, 534 00:26:49,520 --> 00:26:51,800 once the imperial wedding is concluded, 535 00:26:53,040 --> 00:26:53,880 I 536 00:26:54,680 --> 00:26:57,640 will leave the capital with my wife and withdraw from public affairs, 537 00:26:57,720 --> 00:26:59,400 retiring completely. 538 00:26:59,480 --> 00:27:01,520 Your Majesty, Director Meng requests an audience. 539 00:27:05,000 --> 00:27:07,080 I, Shen Wuchen, 540 00:27:07,160 --> 00:27:10,120 implore Your Majesty to decide soon 541 00:27:10,200 --> 00:27:12,840 and stabilize the realm. 542 00:27:32,360 --> 00:27:33,360 Your Majesty. 543 00:27:33,440 --> 00:27:35,560 Left Chancellor Xu Ting and Right Chancellor Gu Qin, 544 00:27:35,640 --> 00:27:37,840 along with the Six Ministries and Nine Ministers, 545 00:27:37,920 --> 00:27:39,880 a total of 236 officials, 546 00:27:39,960 --> 00:27:41,000 have submitted a joint memorial 547 00:27:41,760 --> 00:27:43,440 recommending Zhili as Empress. 548 00:27:44,440 --> 00:27:47,760 Grand Tutor Shen even invoked the late Emperor's Royal Command Tally 549 00:27:48,360 --> 00:27:50,880 asking Your Majesty, in seven days, to go to Shengzu Hall 550 00:27:50,960 --> 00:27:52,760 and hold the ancestral ceremony. 551 00:27:52,840 --> 00:27:54,280 draft the enthronement decree, 552 00:27:55,000 --> 00:27:57,440 and proclaim it to the realm to secure the imperial foundation 553 00:27:58,000 --> 00:27:59,520 and reassure the people. 554 00:28:01,760 --> 00:28:02,600 Fuzhi. 555 00:28:03,440 --> 00:28:05,320 When you returned from Shazhou last time, 556 00:28:05,400 --> 00:28:07,320 you asked whether I had feelings for His Majesty. 557 00:28:08,720 --> 00:28:10,440 I hadn't understood my heart then 558 00:28:10,520 --> 00:28:11,640 and denied it in haste. 559 00:28:12,720 --> 00:28:14,040 But after facing death together several times, 560 00:28:14,680 --> 00:28:16,760 His Majesty and I have confessed our feelings. 561 00:28:17,520 --> 00:28:19,440 Because palace rules and ancestral law forbid it, 562 00:28:20,280 --> 00:28:21,960 our love must remain hidden, 563 00:28:22,040 --> 00:28:23,800 yet it is fierce and overwhelming. 564 00:28:25,040 --> 00:28:26,440 And now, of all times, 565 00:28:26,520 --> 00:28:29,320 the entire court has nominated Zhili as Empress. 566 00:28:30,120 --> 00:28:31,760 She is not merely my colleague, 567 00:28:31,840 --> 00:28:33,960 but a friend who has risked her life beside me. 568 00:28:34,600 --> 00:28:37,200 Faced with open and hidden attacks at court, 569 00:28:37,280 --> 00:28:38,280 I have never been afraid. 570 00:28:39,440 --> 00:28:41,200 But this situation 571 00:28:41,280 --> 00:28:43,960 has left me troubled for the first time. 572 00:28:45,160 --> 00:28:46,800 The feelings involved are so complicated 573 00:28:46,880 --> 00:28:48,160 that aside from you, 574 00:28:48,720 --> 00:28:50,640 I have no one I can tell. 575 00:29:13,200 --> 00:29:15,200 I hope the Left Chancellor will join me 576 00:29:15,840 --> 00:29:17,520 in recommending Shen Zhili as Empress. 577 00:29:17,600 --> 00:29:18,880 Everyone knows 578 00:29:18,960 --> 00:29:21,120 Shen Zhili is your prized student. 579 00:29:21,200 --> 00:29:23,800 Why should I help you strengthen your power? 580 00:29:23,880 --> 00:29:26,520 Meng Tinghui's influence at court is growing. 581 00:29:27,240 --> 00:29:29,200 Her supporters increase by the day, 582 00:29:29,280 --> 00:29:30,600 and she is close to the Shen family. 583 00:29:30,680 --> 00:29:31,680 She… 584 00:29:32,440 --> 00:29:34,160 is the greatest threat to both of us. 585 00:29:34,720 --> 00:29:36,440 If Grand Tutor Shen rallies the officials 586 00:29:36,520 --> 00:29:37,680 to recommend Meng Tinghui, 587 00:29:37,760 --> 00:29:40,040 and His Majesty gives his approval, 588 00:29:41,280 --> 00:29:42,120 then… 589 00:29:43,000 --> 00:29:44,600 neither of us can stop it. 590 00:29:45,720 --> 00:29:47,480 If we recommend Shen Zhili as Empress, 591 00:29:48,160 --> 00:29:51,000 we can end Meng Tinghui's hopes of becoming Empress for good, 592 00:29:51,080 --> 00:29:53,280 and drive a wedge between her and the Shen family. 593 00:29:53,360 --> 00:29:56,200 The Office of Public Inquiry will inevitably be weakened. 594 00:29:56,280 --> 00:29:57,840 For both of us, 595 00:29:58,560 --> 00:30:00,800 there is everything to gain and nothing to lose. 596 00:30:00,880 --> 00:30:02,640 Your only concern 597 00:30:02,720 --> 00:30:03,960 is that Shen Zhili is my student. 598 00:30:06,160 --> 00:30:07,800 But Grand Tutor Shen heads the Shen family. 599 00:30:07,880 --> 00:30:09,160 Shen Zhishu and Di Nian 600 00:30:09,240 --> 00:30:10,720 are both His Majesty's trusted men. 601 00:30:10,800 --> 00:30:12,040 Which of them… 602 00:30:13,480 --> 00:30:15,280 can I truly control? 603 00:30:16,040 --> 00:30:17,520 The situation is clear now. 604 00:30:18,080 --> 00:30:19,240 It will be either Meng Tinghui 605 00:30:20,360 --> 00:30:21,280 or… 606 00:30:22,040 --> 00:30:23,360 Shen Zhili. 607 00:30:23,440 --> 00:30:25,000 Whom to support as Empress, 608 00:30:26,200 --> 00:30:28,160 I trust the Left Chancellor 609 00:30:28,600 --> 00:30:30,160 can weigh for himself. 610 00:31:00,120 --> 00:31:01,480 Leyan. 611 00:31:12,520 --> 00:31:13,480 Zhili. 612 00:31:22,120 --> 00:31:24,360 My name is indeed on the Empress recommendation letter. 613 00:31:26,440 --> 00:31:27,600 I have nothing to say. 614 00:31:28,160 --> 00:31:29,080 Then… 615 00:31:29,960 --> 00:31:32,760 all those days of harmony between us, 616 00:31:32,840 --> 00:31:34,400 all those heart-to-heart talks 617 00:31:34,480 --> 00:31:36,520 and tender words… 618 00:31:37,840 --> 00:31:39,480 were they only an act 619 00:31:39,560 --> 00:31:41,040 and false affection? 620 00:31:41,560 --> 00:31:43,920 Not one bit of my feeling for you was false. 621 00:31:46,160 --> 00:31:47,840 But the Left Chancellor and your father 622 00:31:47,920 --> 00:31:49,440 have united in recommending you as Empress. 623 00:31:49,520 --> 00:31:51,160 The tide has already turned this way. 624 00:31:51,240 --> 00:31:53,280 I had no choice but to do it. 625 00:31:55,000 --> 00:31:56,760 Every one of you says you had no choice. 626 00:31:56,840 --> 00:31:58,600 Even my usually open-minded parents 627 00:31:58,680 --> 00:32:00,120 have completely changed this time. 628 00:32:02,120 --> 00:32:03,400 One avoids seeing me, 629 00:32:04,440 --> 00:32:05,880 and the other refuses to speak. 630 00:32:07,640 --> 00:32:09,280 You all say you love me, 631 00:32:10,320 --> 00:32:11,600 but in your eyes, 632 00:32:12,200 --> 00:32:13,320 am I nothing more than 633 00:32:13,400 --> 00:32:15,600 a puppet you can move however you please? 634 00:32:15,680 --> 00:32:17,400 Does my own will 635 00:32:17,480 --> 00:32:19,040 really mean 636 00:32:19,120 --> 00:32:21,880 so little to all of you? 637 00:32:25,080 --> 00:32:25,920 Leyan. 638 00:32:27,520 --> 00:32:28,840 I regret it deeply as well. 639 00:32:35,040 --> 00:32:36,600 Why don't I go to the palace now 640 00:32:36,680 --> 00:32:38,760 and confess our feelings to His Majesty? 641 00:32:39,400 --> 00:32:40,960 Even if His Majesty is enraged, 642 00:32:41,040 --> 00:32:43,360 I will bear every consequence myself. 643 00:32:43,440 --> 00:32:44,600 Even if I am torn to pieces, 644 00:32:45,360 --> 00:32:47,120 I will not let you suffer for it. 645 00:32:48,040 --> 00:32:49,040 Teacher… 646 00:32:53,360 --> 00:32:54,480 Teacher. 647 00:32:55,560 --> 00:32:57,360 You've had too much to drink. 648 00:32:57,440 --> 00:32:59,000 What exists between us 649 00:33:00,040 --> 00:33:01,880 will not be accepted by the world. 650 00:33:01,960 --> 00:33:03,920 If this becomes known, 651 00:33:05,560 --> 00:33:06,720 not only you and I, 652 00:33:08,320 --> 00:33:11,160 but my parents and the entire Shen clan 653 00:33:12,560 --> 00:33:14,680 will face condemnation and blame. 654 00:33:21,040 --> 00:33:23,120 Leyan, if you are willing, 655 00:33:25,480 --> 00:33:26,920 I will take you away right now. 656 00:33:29,160 --> 00:33:31,400 I don't care about office or reputation. 657 00:33:31,480 --> 00:33:33,120 I can abandon all of it. 658 00:33:33,200 --> 00:33:34,920 Even if I am reduced to a commoner, 659 00:33:35,000 --> 00:33:37,000 even if we live on plain food for life, 660 00:33:37,080 --> 00:33:38,600 as long as you are beside me, 661 00:33:38,680 --> 00:33:40,800 the wilderness will be our paradise, 662 00:33:41,400 --> 00:33:42,440 and a thatched cottage 663 00:33:43,080 --> 00:33:44,240 will be our home. 664 00:33:44,320 --> 00:33:45,600 Leyan. 665 00:33:47,000 --> 00:33:47,960 Trust me. 666 00:35:06,040 --> 00:35:07,320 Zhili. 667 00:35:07,400 --> 00:35:08,480 You finally came. 668 00:35:08,560 --> 00:35:10,000 I have something to tell you. 669 00:35:11,360 --> 00:35:12,200 Yin Qing and I 670 00:35:12,280 --> 00:35:13,960 have been investigating the man behind Ling Yunfei. 671 00:35:14,040 --> 00:35:15,640 We did not mean to hide it from you. 672 00:35:15,720 --> 00:35:17,480 -We only didn't want… -Director Meng. 673 00:35:18,280 --> 00:35:19,600 It doesn't matter anymore. 674 00:35:19,680 --> 00:35:21,440 I have already submitted 675 00:35:21,520 --> 00:35:23,080 my resignation to the Ministry of Personnel. 676 00:35:23,680 --> 00:35:25,280 This one is for Director Meng. 677 00:35:26,000 --> 00:35:27,080 From today onward, 678 00:35:28,840 --> 00:35:31,160 we can no longer work together at the Office of Public Inquiry. 679 00:35:35,960 --> 00:35:37,600 You worked so hard to enter government 680 00:35:37,680 --> 00:35:40,200 and earned so much merit at the Office. 681 00:35:40,280 --> 00:35:43,040 Will you really abandon it all? 682 00:35:45,640 --> 00:35:47,240 In the end, we are still women. 683 00:35:47,320 --> 00:35:48,280 Mengmeng. 684 00:35:48,920 --> 00:35:51,200 I'm not afraid of losing my office or seal. 685 00:35:51,800 --> 00:35:52,680 I'm only afraid 686 00:35:53,800 --> 00:35:56,040 of being unable to be with the one I love. 687 00:35:57,200 --> 00:35:58,360 I don't understand. 688 00:35:59,000 --> 00:36:01,280 Why can the world not accept us? 689 00:36:02,160 --> 00:36:03,120 You mean… 690 00:36:03,640 --> 00:36:04,480 the Right Chancellor? 691 00:36:06,400 --> 00:36:07,880 We love each other. 692 00:36:08,920 --> 00:36:11,120 This is the first time in my life I've loved someone. 693 00:36:11,200 --> 00:36:13,400 Even if it uses up all the good fortune in my life, 694 00:36:13,480 --> 00:36:14,840 I do not want to give him up. 695 00:36:15,520 --> 00:36:17,120 What I came to tell you today 696 00:36:17,200 --> 00:36:18,360 is precisely about the Right Chancellor. 697 00:36:18,440 --> 00:36:19,280 Zhili. 698 00:36:19,960 --> 00:36:21,480 Commander Di. 699 00:36:21,560 --> 00:36:23,600 Tell Zhili what you know. 700 00:36:23,680 --> 00:36:25,160 He has been lying to you all along. 701 00:36:26,040 --> 00:36:28,560 Everyone says Madam Yuan died protecting the Right Chancellor 702 00:36:28,640 --> 00:36:30,720 from a thief's attack. 703 00:36:30,800 --> 00:36:33,720 In truth, she died by the Right Chancellor's hand. 704 00:36:34,240 --> 00:36:35,440 Anian. 705 00:36:35,520 --> 00:36:36,920 You're talking nonsense again. 706 00:36:37,680 --> 00:36:40,160 I saw Teacher's grief when he lost his wife and child. 707 00:36:40,240 --> 00:36:41,480 Zhili… 708 00:36:41,560 --> 00:36:44,120 everything he has done was part of the Empress scheme. 709 00:36:44,200 --> 00:36:46,040 If you truly become Empress, 710 00:36:46,120 --> 00:36:47,960 he is the one who benefits most. 711 00:36:48,040 --> 00:36:49,040 Impossible. 712 00:36:49,600 --> 00:36:51,560 -Teacher would never do such a thing. -Zhili. 713 00:36:52,400 --> 00:36:54,200 Gu Qin does not deserve your devotion. 714 00:36:54,760 --> 00:36:55,640 Zhili. 715 00:36:55,720 --> 00:36:57,640 We have been gathering evidence of his crimes. 716 00:36:57,720 --> 00:36:59,320 We're telling you first 717 00:36:59,400 --> 00:37:01,240 because we didn't want you to hear it from someone else, 718 00:37:01,320 --> 00:37:03,360 and we didn't want you to be hurt. 719 00:37:03,440 --> 00:37:05,040 I know this is hard to accept, 720 00:37:05,120 --> 00:37:06,280 but it is the truth. 721 00:37:06,360 --> 00:37:09,040 Someone can prove all of it. 722 00:37:45,520 --> 00:37:47,040 The Qingzhou garrison map you wanted. 723 00:37:47,680 --> 00:37:48,840 Mr. Shangguan. 724 00:37:50,680 --> 00:37:52,960 The Right Chancellor is well informed indeed. 725 00:37:53,040 --> 00:37:54,040 In only a few days, 726 00:37:54,120 --> 00:37:55,760 you discovered who I am. 727 00:37:57,360 --> 00:37:59,960 You killed Ling Yunfei with the Infinity Pill. 728 00:38:00,800 --> 00:38:01,920 Do you think… 729 00:38:02,600 --> 00:38:04,360 you can stay hidden behind him forever? 730 00:38:05,440 --> 00:38:06,680 Between the two of us, 731 00:38:07,440 --> 00:38:09,880 who truly killed him? 732 00:38:13,800 --> 00:38:14,920 Enough idle talk. 733 00:38:16,120 --> 00:38:17,280 Where is what I asked for? 734 00:39:48,720 --> 00:39:50,960 It is time you showed your true face. 735 00:40:08,800 --> 00:40:10,680 Everything happened exactly as His Majesty predicted. 736 00:40:10,760 --> 00:40:13,040 They really are after Qingzhou's garrison map. 737 00:40:20,840 --> 00:40:23,480 The position of Empress concerns the fate of the realm. 738 00:40:23,560 --> 00:40:24,760 At present, 739 00:40:24,840 --> 00:40:27,040 both Chancellors are pressing hard, while Beijian watches like a wolf. 740 00:40:27,120 --> 00:40:30,160 Daning needs a stable inner palace. 741 00:40:30,240 --> 00:40:32,160 You are the most suitable choice. 742 00:40:32,240 --> 00:40:34,720 At the ancestral ceremony in seven days, you will receive the phoenix seal. 743 00:40:34,800 --> 00:40:36,760 This is no longer a family matter, but a matter of state. 744 00:40:36,840 --> 00:40:38,080 It is settled. 745 00:40:38,160 --> 00:40:40,880 Father, His Majesty and I are only sovereign and subject. 746 00:40:40,960 --> 00:40:43,160 I cannot accept this phoenix seal. 747 00:40:43,240 --> 00:40:45,240 Besides, my heart already belongs to someone. 748 00:40:46,080 --> 00:40:47,080 What did you say? 749 00:40:50,160 --> 00:40:52,800 Teacher and I love each other. 750 00:40:52,880 --> 00:40:53,720 Father, you would have me 751 00:40:53,800 --> 00:40:55,560 with my heart full of love for Teacher 752 00:40:55,640 --> 00:40:56,640 enter the inner palace as Empress. 753 00:40:56,720 --> 00:40:58,000 I cannot do that. 754 00:40:58,080 --> 00:41:00,720 It would mean deceiving His Majesty. 755 00:41:00,800 --> 00:41:02,640 For me, it would tear my heart apart. 756 00:41:03,840 --> 00:41:05,200 Say that again? 757 00:41:06,680 --> 00:41:09,160 Father, even if I say it ten thousand times, 758 00:41:09,240 --> 00:41:11,360 I still want to be with Teacher. 759 00:41:11,440 --> 00:41:12,320 Our love is sincere and mutual. 760 00:41:12,400 --> 00:41:13,960 The Shen family has been honorable for generations. 761 00:41:14,040 --> 00:41:15,080 We have built our name on integrity. 762 00:41:15,160 --> 00:41:16,800 I taught you the classics and proper conduct 763 00:41:16,880 --> 00:41:20,000 not so you could defy human propriety. 764 00:41:20,080 --> 00:41:21,640 That fine teacher of yours— 765 00:41:21,720 --> 00:41:23,600 if he cared for you at all, 766 00:41:23,680 --> 00:41:25,960 how could he personally, at court, 767 00:41:26,040 --> 00:41:27,440 push you toward becoming Empress? 768 00:41:27,520 --> 00:41:29,360 Teacher must have his reasons. 769 00:41:29,440 --> 00:41:30,480 He said 770 00:41:30,560 --> 00:41:33,120 even if condemned by all and beset by endless calamity, 771 00:41:33,200 --> 00:41:34,640 he would still grow old with me, hand in hand. 772 00:41:34,720 --> 00:41:36,040 Come to your senses. 773 00:41:36,120 --> 00:41:37,200 Husband. 774 00:41:37,280 --> 00:41:38,280 Sister Zhili. 775 00:41:43,240 --> 00:41:44,280 In all my life, 776 00:41:46,480 --> 00:41:47,440 this is the first time Father… 777 00:41:48,400 --> 00:41:49,680 has ever hit me.