1 00:01:25,320 --> 00:01:30,920 Joy of Life 2 2 00:01:34,920 --> 00:01:36,640 Do masters always give such generous gifts? 3 00:01:38,280 --> 00:01:39,680 Well, you are Ye Qingmei's son after all 4 00:01:40,880 --> 00:01:41,880 My teacher said 5 00:01:41,960 --> 00:01:44,080 This cultivation technique originally belonged to your mother 6 00:01:44,640 --> 00:01:46,560 Now it's rightfully returned to its owner 7 00:01:48,680 --> 00:01:50,000 My mother's influence is everywhere 8 00:01:50,960 --> 00:01:51,960 You're lucky 9 00:01:53,080 --> 00:01:54,640 I should thank you for intervening earlier 10 00:01:55,120 --> 00:01:56,240 Don't thank me for that 11 00:01:56,720 --> 00:01:59,000 That shadow hiding in the water was your real trump card 12 00:02:00,920 --> 00:02:02,800 Did you know Yun Zhilan was coming? 13 00:02:03,520 --> 00:02:04,760 Not just Yun Zhilan 14 00:02:04,840 --> 00:02:06,440 I didn't even know Shadow was in Jiangnan 15 00:02:06,520 --> 00:02:08,000 You didn't know? 16 00:02:08,880 --> 00:02:09,960 That's very strange 17 00:02:10,560 --> 00:02:12,440 The ambush spot he chose in the water was way too precise. 18 00:02:13,000 --> 00:02:15,360 No matter how you look at it, someone must have leaked the secret. 19 00:02:16,240 --> 00:02:18,280 I really don’t know—I’m even more confused than you are. 20 00:02:19,160 --> 00:02:20,160 Whatever, not my problem. 21 00:02:23,000 --> 00:02:24,280 Eat up. 22 00:02:27,840 --> 00:02:29,040 How’s married life treating you? 23 00:02:31,720 --> 00:02:33,040 Pretty good. 24 00:02:34,920 --> 00:02:35,920 That’s a relief. 25 00:02:39,200 --> 00:02:40,320 Sis Li told me to ask. 26 00:02:43,680 --> 00:02:44,680 How is she doing? 27 00:02:45,400 --> 00:02:46,480 Don’t ask. 28 00:02:46,560 --> 00:02:47,880 - Who’s Sis Li? - For her... 29 00:02:47,960 --> 00:02:49,880 Not asking at all is the greatest comfort. 30 00:02:53,760 --> 00:02:54,920 You should figure out... 31 00:02:55,000 --> 00:02:57,200 Is this duck or goose? 32 00:02:57,280 --> 00:02:58,920 - You don’t recognize it? - I mean this. 33 00:03:00,680 --> 00:03:01,760 Isn’t this chicken? 34 00:03:03,240 --> 00:03:04,760 Salted chicken, right? 35 00:03:21,680 --> 00:03:24,120 Alright, slow down... 36 00:03:24,200 --> 00:03:25,640 Don't fall 37 00:03:25,720 --> 00:03:26,720 Okay 38 00:03:26,800 --> 00:03:27,800 Stop running 39 00:03:33,480 --> 00:03:35,360 Mother, Lord Fan has arrived. 40 00:03:39,280 --> 00:03:40,760 Why didn't you say so earlier? 41 00:03:41,240 --> 00:03:43,840 I should have gone out to greet him. 42 00:03:45,760 --> 00:03:47,800 Did Lord Fan come alone? 43 00:03:47,880 --> 00:03:49,320 No matter how chaotic Jiangnan becomes, 44 00:03:50,320 --> 00:03:51,920 the Ming family remains safe, right? 45 00:03:53,560 --> 00:03:55,360 The Ming family will protect Lord Fan with our lives. 46 00:03:57,920 --> 00:03:59,680 Quickly, go and call Lord Fan. 47 00:04:00,360 --> 00:04:03,480 -Lord Fan -Lord Fan 48 00:04:04,160 --> 00:04:06,560 Good kids, I didn’t bring candy today—I’ll make it up to you later. 49 00:04:07,120 --> 00:04:08,120 Hurry along now. 50 00:04:13,880 --> 00:04:14,880 Mother 51 00:04:15,360 --> 00:04:16,960 You're not done yet 52 00:04:18,480 --> 00:04:20,400 Just two more bows and the ceremony is complete 53 00:04:23,520 --> 00:04:24,640 Please have a seat, sir 54 00:04:24,720 --> 00:04:25,920 Let me keep you company for a while 55 00:04:32,600 --> 00:04:33,720 What's all this about? 56 00:04:35,880 --> 00:04:37,000 The adoption ceremony 57 00:04:37,560 --> 00:04:39,240 -"Adoption"? -Yes 58 00:04:40,160 --> 00:04:41,240 He's from my clan 59 00:04:41,720 --> 00:04:44,720 You could say he's my cousin 60 00:04:45,520 --> 00:04:47,640 Today, he's being adopted under my mother's name 61 00:04:48,600 --> 00:04:52,080 From now on, my cousin will become my younger brother 62 00:04:52,680 --> 00:04:53,680 An even closer bond 63 00:04:53,960 --> 00:04:55,360 He's quite fortunate 64 00:04:56,120 --> 00:04:57,560 To have Lord Fan presiding over the ceremony 65 00:04:57,640 --> 00:04:59,840 This will bring honor to the family 66 00:05:01,760 --> 00:05:02,760 Please have some tea 67 00:05:08,240 --> 00:05:09,520 Alright... 68 00:05:10,080 --> 00:05:11,880 The ceremony's done, no need to bow anymore. 69 00:05:12,880 --> 00:05:14,480 Come...stand up now. 70 00:05:15,520 --> 00:05:17,120 Here, take this. 71 00:05:20,280 --> 00:05:21,800 From this day forward, 72 00:05:21,880 --> 00:05:23,600 you and I are sworn brothers. 73 00:05:23,680 --> 00:05:25,080 As your elder brother, 74 00:05:25,720 --> 00:05:27,320 I should at least show my sincerity. 75 00:05:30,560 --> 00:05:32,040 I'm getting old, 76 00:05:32,360 --> 00:05:34,040 not as thoughtful as you. 77 00:05:35,760 --> 00:05:36,840 These trivial matters 78 00:05:37,480 --> 00:05:38,800 shouldn't trouble mother's heart. 79 00:05:39,400 --> 00:05:41,160 Wouldn't that make me an unworthy family head? 80 00:05:41,840 --> 00:05:43,680 See, mother has spoken. 81 00:05:45,680 --> 00:05:47,000 Take it quickly. 82 00:05:47,440 --> 00:05:48,680 The children get some too. 83 00:05:51,840 --> 00:05:53,840 Come...the children also get some. 84 00:05:53,920 --> 00:05:55,200 Come quickly... 85 00:05:56,480 --> 00:05:57,520 Go on. 86 00:06:01,120 --> 00:06:03,080 From now on, I'm your uncle. 87 00:06:03,560 --> 00:06:05,560 I'll make the decisions from now on. 88 00:06:05,640 --> 00:06:07,120 My word is law, understand? 89 00:06:07,520 --> 00:06:09,920 -Here...everyone gets some -Thank you, uncle. 90 00:06:10,000 --> 00:06:11,000 Thank you, uncle. 91 00:06:11,440 --> 00:06:13,360 -Thank you, uncle. -Here, go buy some candy. 92 00:06:14,000 --> 00:06:15,040 Go ahead. 93 00:06:19,880 --> 00:06:20,880 Mother. 94 00:06:21,440 --> 00:06:22,480 Family matters are settled. 95 00:06:23,600 --> 00:06:24,600 Now to official business. 96 00:06:24,960 --> 00:06:26,240 You're the head of the family. 97 00:06:27,240 --> 00:06:28,560 Your decision stands. 98 00:06:31,520 --> 00:06:32,520 Young Master Fan. 99 00:06:32,880 --> 00:06:33,880 Please take the seat of honor. 100 00:06:45,760 --> 00:06:47,040 Since the ceremony is already complete, 101 00:06:47,120 --> 00:06:48,120 why are you still kneeling? 102 00:06:49,520 --> 00:06:50,600 Today at the docks, 103 00:06:50,680 --> 00:06:52,800 I, Ming, promised Young Master Fan 104 00:06:53,480 --> 00:06:54,560 that before nightfall, 105 00:06:55,640 --> 00:06:56,800 I would give you an explanation. 106 00:07:10,600 --> 00:07:11,600 Sir 107 00:07:11,960 --> 00:07:14,360 This person is the one blinded by greed 108 00:07:14,760 --> 00:07:16,240 the criminal who issued bounty notices without authorization 109 00:07:28,000 --> 00:07:29,320 Him? 110 00:07:30,560 --> 00:07:31,640 The murderer? 111 00:07:33,160 --> 00:07:36,120 Isn't this the cousin who just became your blood brother? 112 00:07:36,680 --> 00:07:38,440 The motive? Blinded by greed? 113 00:07:38,520 --> 00:07:39,840 Most likely a pledge of allegiance. 114 00:07:40,960 --> 00:07:43,320 When Your Excellency went south, you affected someone's interests. 115 00:07:44,080 --> 00:07:45,520 He might just be a pawn. 116 00:07:48,280 --> 00:07:49,880 Affected the Ming family's interests? 117 00:07:49,960 --> 00:07:51,200 The Ming family isn't even worthy. 118 00:07:52,080 --> 00:07:53,080 Your Excellency. 119 00:07:53,360 --> 00:07:55,400 The three major workshops belong to the royal family. 120 00:07:55,840 --> 00:07:59,200 Our Ming family is just helping with the work. 121 00:08:00,440 --> 00:08:01,560 All workshop equipment, 122 00:08:01,640 --> 00:08:02,680 personnel management, 123 00:08:03,320 --> 00:08:04,840 are supervised by the Transport Department. 124 00:08:04,920 --> 00:08:06,400 Even those merchant transactions, 125 00:08:06,480 --> 00:08:07,600 the actual silver, 126 00:08:07,680 --> 00:08:09,720 must all be handed over to Her Highness the Princess. 127 00:08:10,280 --> 00:08:11,400 To put it bluntly, 128 00:08:11,480 --> 00:08:14,040 Our Ming family is just a watchdog on a leash. 129 00:08:14,960 --> 00:08:16,800 No matter whose hand holds the leash, 130 00:08:17,920 --> 00:08:19,120 it makes no difference to us. 131 00:08:19,200 --> 00:08:20,240 Don’t you agree? 132 00:08:20,320 --> 00:08:22,560 - Even dogs can bite. - Only strays bite. 133 00:08:22,640 --> 00:08:24,960 A watchdog’s duty is all about… 134 00:08:26,520 --> 00:08:27,760 loyalty. 135 00:08:34,600 --> 00:08:36,200 Very well, Your Excellency 136 00:08:36,920 --> 00:08:40,320 Today, I shall declare the Ming family's position 137 00:08:42,480 --> 00:08:44,680 Your Excellency's southern expedition has imperial sanction - fully legitimate 138 00:08:45,160 --> 00:08:48,560 The Ming family shall fully support Your Excellency in reclaiming the Three Great Workshops 139 00:08:51,560 --> 00:08:52,640 The family head's words 140 00:08:53,320 --> 00:08:54,600 are the Ming family's words 141 00:09:06,160 --> 00:09:07,520 Good... 142 00:09:10,200 --> 00:09:11,520 This explanation suffices 143 00:09:12,320 --> 00:09:14,160 And our position is secured 144 00:09:15,480 --> 00:09:16,800 But what shall we do with this person? 145 00:09:17,960 --> 00:09:20,520 Issuing unauthorized bounties to assassinate imperial officials 146 00:09:20,960 --> 00:09:22,320 Is a capital offense 147 00:09:47,800 --> 00:09:48,800 Lord Fan 148 00:09:50,160 --> 00:09:52,200 The Ming family never shows favoritism 149 00:09:53,720 --> 00:09:55,120 We ask Your Lordship to deal with the criminal... 150 00:09:57,360 --> 00:09:58,440 in accordance with the law 151 00:10:01,640 --> 00:10:04,040 At least let the child get off first. 152 00:10:04,120 --> 00:10:05,360 Everyone is watching. 153 00:10:21,280 --> 00:10:23,920 Since he's a criminal, why bother with adoption? 154 00:10:24,000 --> 00:10:25,640 Though he deserves death, 155 00:10:26,680 --> 00:10:28,280 the children are innocent after all. 156 00:10:29,480 --> 00:10:30,800 If they're adopted under my care, 157 00:10:30,880 --> 00:10:32,240 after his passing, 158 00:10:33,360 --> 00:10:34,400 these children 159 00:10:34,880 --> 00:10:37,760 will be raised as my own grandchildren. 160 00:10:39,680 --> 00:10:42,080 Then he can rest in peace. 161 00:10:43,200 --> 00:10:44,440 Mother is compassionate and kind. 162 00:10:44,920 --> 00:10:45,960 If I were him... 163 00:10:47,720 --> 00:10:49,000 I would certainly find peace. 164 00:10:49,080 --> 00:10:50,320 Young Master Fan, 165 00:10:52,400 --> 00:10:53,480 after you. 166 00:11:05,920 --> 00:11:07,360 -Is this the murderer? -Indeed 167 00:11:08,360 --> 00:11:09,520 Blinded by greed? 168 00:11:09,600 --> 00:11:10,680 Correct 169 00:11:11,520 --> 00:11:12,520 Do you confess? 170 00:11:12,600 --> 00:11:13,640 I confess 171 00:11:13,720 --> 00:11:15,080 Confession means death 172 00:11:15,680 --> 00:11:17,320 I beg your mercy 173 00:11:19,200 --> 00:11:20,480 I refuse to grant it 174 00:11:21,080 --> 00:11:22,840 Death can wait until we investigate thoroughly 175 00:11:22,920 --> 00:11:25,240 I'll take this person to the magistrate's office for detailed investigation 176 00:11:35,040 --> 00:11:36,240 Brother 177 00:11:36,600 --> 00:11:38,920 Can you let the child go first? 178 00:11:44,920 --> 00:11:47,720 Turn yourself in peacefully and cooperate fully with the investigation 179 00:11:48,880 --> 00:11:50,320 Don't worry about your family 180 00:11:51,000 --> 00:11:53,080 I'll take care of the children for you 181 00:11:54,120 --> 00:11:55,440 There will be no problems 182 00:12:00,720 --> 00:12:01,720 Get a few people over here 183 00:12:12,480 --> 00:12:13,520 Escorted to the government office 184 00:12:22,000 --> 00:12:23,320 Be careful, Master Fan 185 00:12:38,760 --> 00:12:39,760 This... 186 00:12:40,680 --> 00:12:42,080 So it was suicide out of guilt. 187 00:12:43,640 --> 00:12:45,160 Sir, are you alright? 188 00:12:45,760 --> 00:12:47,160 Did any blood get on you? 189 00:12:47,520 --> 00:12:49,960 You blocked it all—how could any reach me? 190 00:12:56,120 --> 00:12:57,120 This... 191 00:12:57,640 --> 00:12:59,000 If this can't be cleaned properly... 192 00:12:59,080 --> 00:13:00,840 we'll have to throw it away and get a new one. 193 00:13:01,960 --> 00:13:03,000 What a waste. 194 00:13:03,080 --> 00:13:04,080 Look at this... 195 00:13:04,440 --> 00:13:05,800 This whole table of perfectly good dishes... 196 00:13:08,600 --> 00:13:10,720 Sir, what about the corpse... 197 00:13:11,600 --> 00:13:12,760 Are you still going to carry it back? 198 00:13:14,160 --> 00:13:15,520 He already committed suicide out of guilt. 199 00:13:15,840 --> 00:13:17,320 What would I interrogate a corpse for? 200 00:13:18,800 --> 00:13:20,040 If that's the case... 201 00:13:20,760 --> 00:13:23,200 then have my own brother's body... 202 00:13:23,640 --> 00:13:24,800 carried out for burial. 203 00:13:24,880 --> 00:13:26,360 I'll be back shortly. 204 00:13:43,920 --> 00:13:44,920 Lord Fan 205 00:13:46,560 --> 00:13:49,520 My lord raised funds to send disaster victims home 206 00:13:49,920 --> 00:13:51,160 Truly admirable 207 00:13:51,800 --> 00:13:53,080 Such charitable acts 208 00:13:53,760 --> 00:13:56,720 The Ming family must not fall behind others 209 00:13:57,840 --> 00:13:59,320 Let's discuss charity later 210 00:13:59,400 --> 00:14:01,040 The blood hasn't even been wiped clean yet 211 00:14:33,240 --> 00:14:34,240 Fellow villagers 212 00:14:34,840 --> 00:14:37,320 We've said all there is to say 213 00:14:38,960 --> 00:14:40,120 The Ming family does good deeds 214 00:14:40,640 --> 00:14:41,920 There's no time to lose 215 00:14:43,200 --> 00:14:44,960 Let's all drink up 216 00:14:45,800 --> 00:14:46,800 Bottoms up 217 00:14:48,040 --> 00:14:49,040 Family Head 218 00:14:53,480 --> 00:14:54,480 Family Head 219 00:14:57,520 --> 00:15:00,080 Are all these villagers joining us voluntarily? 220 00:15:01,280 --> 00:15:02,360 Yes 221 00:15:03,440 --> 00:15:05,680 Why do so many faces look familiar? 222 00:15:05,760 --> 00:15:07,400 It's all for our Ming family 223 00:15:09,840 --> 00:15:11,720 Elder, please have a seat... 224 00:15:11,800 --> 00:15:12,800 Thank you, sir 225 00:15:14,920 --> 00:15:15,920 You've worked hard 226 00:15:36,800 --> 00:15:37,800 Ming Qingda 227 00:15:39,080 --> 00:15:40,080 For the Ming family... 228 00:15:45,600 --> 00:15:47,360 Thank you, dear folks of Jinzhou 229 00:16:36,400 --> 00:16:37,440 A man without credibility cannot stand. 230 00:16:40,600 --> 00:16:41,600 Fellow villagers, 231 00:16:43,360 --> 00:16:45,040 Our Ming family keeps its promises. 232 00:16:55,080 --> 00:16:56,120 After this bowl of wine... 233 00:17:00,840 --> 00:17:02,360 your families 234 00:17:03,680 --> 00:17:05,120 will be the Ming family's families 235 00:17:06,440 --> 00:17:07,440 I can't promise much else 236 00:17:08,080 --> 00:17:09,720 but as long as the Ming family exists 237 00:17:10,440 --> 00:17:13,720 Guarantee they'll have no worries about food and clothing 238 00:17:26,560 --> 00:17:27,560 Fellow villagers 239 00:17:28,760 --> 00:17:30,240 Farewell in the afterlife 240 00:17:32,920 --> 00:17:35,040 Thank you, Family Head 241 00:17:35,120 --> 00:17:38,240 The Family Head's great kindness 242 00:17:45,800 --> 00:17:47,040 There's so much to say... 243 00:17:49,320 --> 00:17:50,520 But the auspicious time has come. 244 00:17:52,800 --> 00:17:53,800 Everyone, 245 00:17:58,520 --> 00:17:59,640 Safe travels. 246 00:18:18,280 --> 00:18:20,760 Does Lord Fan think it's clean now? 247 00:18:21,240 --> 00:18:23,080 Handled with practiced ease 248 00:18:23,720 --> 00:18:25,240 Your household hasn't been short on deaths, has it? 249 00:18:26,000 --> 00:18:27,040 A great family 250 00:18:27,600 --> 00:18:29,560 Many births, many deaths 251 00:18:29,880 --> 00:18:31,040 Grown accustomed to it 252 00:19:02,440 --> 00:19:03,600 Don't get the headcount wrong. 253 00:19:04,520 --> 00:19:05,560 Rest assured, Sect Leader. 254 00:19:05,640 --> 00:19:07,160 Including the one you brought. 255 00:19:07,240 --> 00:19:08,760 Perfect, not a single one missing. 256 00:19:09,520 --> 00:19:10,640 The follow-up is all arranged. 257 00:19:11,280 --> 00:19:12,400 Everything's been arranged. 258 00:19:12,480 --> 00:19:14,040 They all volunteered. 259 00:19:14,560 --> 00:19:16,120 If not for the limited quota, 260 00:19:16,480 --> 00:19:17,880 many more would've wanted to die. 261 00:19:17,960 --> 00:19:20,920 After all, once their families are taken in by Ming Manor, 262 00:19:21,000 --> 00:19:22,400 their fates are transformed. 263 00:19:22,480 --> 00:19:23,840 Something they'd never dare dream of. 264 00:19:25,720 --> 00:19:26,760 Load them up quickly. 265 00:19:27,600 --> 00:19:28,600 Time won't wait. 266 00:19:29,200 --> 00:19:31,440 Understood, we'll deliver them to the Transfer Office immediately. 267 00:19:45,320 --> 00:19:46,320 What a sin 268 00:19:53,480 --> 00:19:54,480 Hurry up 269 00:19:55,440 --> 00:19:56,440 Move faster 270 00:20:34,120 --> 00:20:35,280 Mr. Xie 271 00:20:36,280 --> 00:20:37,400 You were looking for me? 272 00:20:37,760 --> 00:20:38,920 I wasn't looking for you. 273 00:20:46,920 --> 00:20:48,240 Mr. Xie 274 00:20:48,320 --> 00:20:49,320 This room... 275 00:20:50,200 --> 00:20:52,240 You should open the windows often for ventilation. 276 00:20:55,880 --> 00:20:57,520 Mr. Xie, please have a seat. 277 00:21:03,520 --> 00:21:04,520 Please 278 00:21:11,400 --> 00:21:12,720 I heard Fan Xian has arrived? 279 00:21:16,120 --> 00:21:17,120 Yes. 280 00:21:19,200 --> 00:21:20,280 The Old Madam insists... 281 00:21:20,840 --> 00:21:22,120 on giving him an explanation. 282 00:21:22,760 --> 00:21:25,120 She says regarding the bounty notice... 283 00:21:25,200 --> 00:21:26,560 if not resolved soon... 284 00:21:27,400 --> 00:21:29,920 our Ming family faces extermination. 285 00:21:30,480 --> 00:21:32,200 Mr. Xie, to be frank... 286 00:21:32,280 --> 00:21:33,960 I've already advised her. 287 00:21:34,880 --> 00:21:36,240 Though nominally the family head... 288 00:21:38,920 --> 00:21:41,240 my words carry little weight. 289 00:21:43,400 --> 00:21:44,520 All matters... 290 00:21:45,600 --> 00:21:46,960 are decided by my mother. 291 00:21:47,520 --> 00:21:48,560 Your mother's stance... 292 00:21:49,120 --> 00:21:50,240 isn't entirely wrong. 293 00:21:50,840 --> 00:21:52,560 Mr. Xie, I must disagree. 294 00:21:52,640 --> 00:21:54,960 One should act with integrity. 295 00:21:55,520 --> 00:21:56,920 How can we be two-faced? 296 00:21:59,120 --> 00:22:03,000 Since our Ming family has pledged loyalty to the Princess and Second Prince... 297 00:22:03,760 --> 00:22:05,600 we cannot maintain ties with Fan Xian. 298 00:22:06,080 --> 00:22:07,160 We must avoid suspicion. 299 00:22:07,600 --> 00:22:09,640 As long as you remember this principle. 300 00:22:09,720 --> 00:22:10,720 I never forget it. 301 00:22:12,480 --> 00:22:13,480 Rest assured, sir. 302 00:22:14,040 --> 00:22:15,320 Our Ming family's dealings with Fan Xian... 303 00:22:16,280 --> 00:22:17,560 are merely superficial. 304 00:22:19,480 --> 00:22:20,680 With my unyielding nature... 305 00:22:21,360 --> 00:22:23,320 even if our family were slaughtered... 306 00:22:23,400 --> 00:22:24,760 I wouldn't give him a pleasant look. 307 00:22:26,800 --> 00:22:28,120 No need for excessive concern. 308 00:22:28,760 --> 00:22:29,840 Let me share some inside news. 309 00:22:30,720 --> 00:22:31,720 In two days... 310 00:22:32,320 --> 00:22:33,400 will be Fan Xian's demise. 311 00:22:33,480 --> 00:22:34,640 "Two days"? 312 00:22:38,840 --> 00:22:39,840 What do you mean? 313 00:22:40,400 --> 00:22:41,880 The Princess's visit... 314 00:22:42,400 --> 00:22:43,480 has already sealed the matter. 315 00:22:49,560 --> 00:22:50,600 Well... 316 00:22:52,360 --> 00:22:53,520 Who will kill Fan Xian? 317 00:22:54,320 --> 00:22:56,800 Don't ask too much, just wait for the outcome. 318 00:22:58,200 --> 00:22:59,760 Understood... 319 00:23:02,320 --> 00:23:03,320 With your assurance, 320 00:23:04,040 --> 00:23:05,160 I can rest completely at ease. 321 00:23:14,800 --> 00:23:17,960 The Ming family head is truly too careless. 322 00:23:19,040 --> 00:23:20,640 There was just a death over there. 323 00:23:21,560 --> 00:23:23,480 Lord Fan must have lost his appetite. 324 00:23:24,160 --> 00:23:26,920 It's much quieter here. 325 00:23:28,080 --> 00:23:30,960 Your Lordship raises funds for charity and good deeds. 326 00:23:31,720 --> 00:23:33,520 Though the Ming family faces hardships, 327 00:23:33,880 --> 00:23:35,920 we are willing to donate 200,000 taels of silver 328 00:23:36,280 --> 00:23:37,440 to support this noble cause. 329 00:23:39,280 --> 00:23:41,960 Even the leading family of Jiangnan has difficulties? 330 00:23:42,040 --> 00:23:43,360 To be frank, my lord, 331 00:23:44,400 --> 00:23:47,040 the Ming family was entrusted by the Princess 332 00:23:47,120 --> 00:23:49,920 to manage the sales of goods from the Three Great Workshops. 333 00:23:50,000 --> 00:23:51,520 Yet we face perpetual deficits. 334 00:23:52,600 --> 00:23:53,880 Our Ming family 335 00:23:53,960 --> 00:23:55,760 keeps pouring money into it. 336 00:23:56,760 --> 00:23:59,880 The goods from the Three Great Workshops are exclusively monopolized. 337 00:24:00,680 --> 00:24:01,960 How can you still lose money? 338 00:24:02,040 --> 00:24:03,080 "Monopoly"? 339 00:24:03,160 --> 00:24:04,680 Monopoly means 340 00:24:04,760 --> 00:24:07,160 exclusive ownership with guarded techniques. 341 00:24:10,280 --> 00:24:11,360 However... 342 00:24:12,200 --> 00:24:14,280 there are too many unscrupulous merchants, 343 00:24:14,360 --> 00:24:15,960 making price negotiations difficult. 344 00:24:16,520 --> 00:24:18,440 And the cost of goods keeps rising. 345 00:24:18,880 --> 00:24:20,160 Not to mention... 346 00:24:23,360 --> 00:24:24,760 All of you, leave now. 347 00:24:36,480 --> 00:24:38,600 Not to mention the treasury funds 348 00:24:39,760 --> 00:24:42,680 all have to go through the Princess's hands 349 00:24:43,240 --> 00:24:45,680 So the treasury deficit 350 00:24:46,600 --> 00:24:47,960 is unavoidable 351 00:24:49,000 --> 00:24:50,760 Are you implying 352 00:24:51,920 --> 00:24:54,200 the Princess is profiting personally? 353 00:24:54,280 --> 00:24:56,240 I never said that 354 00:24:56,800 --> 00:24:58,680 Understood, you said nothing 355 00:24:59,080 --> 00:25:00,120 I'll read between the lines 356 00:25:03,400 --> 00:25:05,120 Thankfully you've come 357 00:25:05,880 --> 00:25:08,600 The Three Workshops finally have hope 358 00:25:09,640 --> 00:25:12,680 I thought you'd help Li Yunrui obstruct me 359 00:25:13,080 --> 00:25:15,240 - Would we? - Why would you say that? 360 00:25:15,840 --> 00:25:18,280 The Three Workshops don't belong to our Ming family 361 00:25:19,640 --> 00:25:20,840 Whoever controls them 362 00:25:21,160 --> 00:25:23,760 makes no difference to us 363 00:25:23,840 --> 00:25:25,640 Your southern expedition 364 00:25:26,200 --> 00:25:27,680 shouldn't be delayed 365 00:25:28,400 --> 00:25:32,440 Tomorrow I'll have Qingda escort you to the Transport Office 366 00:25:32,520 --> 00:25:33,880 for a swift handover 367 00:25:34,440 --> 00:25:36,360 The Three Workshops will naturally 368 00:25:36,760 --> 00:25:38,600 fall under your control 369 00:25:38,680 --> 00:25:40,400 with no further concerns 370 00:25:40,480 --> 00:25:41,480 Tell me 371 00:25:42,080 --> 00:25:43,080 what do you want? 372 00:25:45,760 --> 00:25:47,600 The Three Workshops in the south 373 00:25:48,360 --> 00:25:49,920 will need local management 374 00:25:52,480 --> 00:25:54,720 What do you think, sir? 375 00:25:58,560 --> 00:25:59,560 Interesting 376 00:26:01,080 --> 00:26:03,400 This business loses money every year 377 00:26:03,920 --> 00:26:05,920 yet you're eager to continue? 378 00:26:07,840 --> 00:26:08,960 Serving the nation... 379 00:26:11,360 --> 00:26:13,920 How could I care about personal gains and losses? 380 00:26:14,520 --> 00:26:15,960 The Ming family's current standing 381 00:26:16,640 --> 00:26:17,680 is no mere coincidence 382 00:26:19,960 --> 00:26:21,560 It relies on the nation's prosperity 383 00:26:22,320 --> 00:26:24,520 and also depends on your esteemed favor 384 00:26:44,600 --> 00:26:45,640 What good tea 385 00:26:46,720 --> 00:26:47,800 Such good tea... 386 00:26:58,200 --> 00:26:59,200 Why haven't you left yet? 387 00:26:59,280 --> 00:27:00,560 Won't Fan Xian get impatient waiting? 388 00:27:07,440 --> 00:27:09,720 Lord Fan is just a passing figure 389 00:27:10,480 --> 00:27:11,640 Just deal with it casually 390 00:27:11,720 --> 00:27:12,920 Besides 391 00:27:13,320 --> 00:27:14,320 With my mother here 392 00:27:16,200 --> 00:27:17,200 There won't be any problems 393 00:27:23,400 --> 00:27:24,400 Mr. Xie 394 00:27:24,960 --> 00:27:25,960 Please have some tea 395 00:27:43,080 --> 00:27:44,080 What's going on here? 396 00:27:54,960 --> 00:27:55,960 This... 397 00:27:56,400 --> 00:27:57,880 What's going on? 398 00:27:57,960 --> 00:27:59,360 The sky has turned red from the flames. 399 00:27:59,960 --> 00:28:00,960 Can't you see it? 400 00:28:09,800 --> 00:28:12,000 It looks like there's a fire 401 00:28:14,400 --> 00:28:16,400 Master Fan... 402 00:28:16,480 --> 00:28:17,480 This... 403 00:28:18,320 --> 00:28:19,600 Master Fan 404 00:28:20,120 --> 00:28:21,120 Something terrible has happened 405 00:28:21,560 --> 00:28:22,560 I sent someone to check 406 00:28:23,240 --> 00:28:25,280 It seems the Transport Office caught fire 407 00:28:25,840 --> 00:28:27,520 - The Inner Treasury Transport Office? - Exactly 408 00:28:28,240 --> 00:28:30,200 All items from the three main workshops 409 00:28:30,840 --> 00:28:32,120 Along with the workshop staff 410 00:28:32,800 --> 00:28:33,840 Were at the Transport Office 411 00:28:34,800 --> 00:28:35,800 But rest assured, sir 412 00:28:36,200 --> 00:28:37,240 Before I came to report 413 00:28:37,760 --> 00:28:40,680 I already mobilized the entire Ming family to fight the fire 414 00:28:42,880 --> 00:28:44,720 Who does the family head suspect started the fire? 415 00:28:46,480 --> 00:28:47,480 This... 416 00:28:49,280 --> 00:28:50,600 Could this be man-made? 417 00:28:51,320 --> 00:28:52,320 After all, 418 00:28:53,080 --> 00:28:55,760 burning down the Transport Bureau benefits no one. 419 00:28:59,640 --> 00:29:02,040 Fortunately, I was at the Ming family's tonight. 420 00:29:03,240 --> 00:29:05,520 Otherwise, people might suspect the Ming family started the fire. 421 00:29:05,600 --> 00:29:06,800 Officer Fan, 422 00:29:06,880 --> 00:29:08,800 even if the Ming family had the courage of a bear and leopard, 423 00:29:08,880 --> 00:29:10,920 -they wouldn't dare do such a thing. -I know... 424 00:29:11,000 --> 00:29:12,680 Of course it couldn't be the Ming family. 425 00:29:13,440 --> 00:29:15,080 After all, I'm living proof. 426 00:29:19,360 --> 00:29:20,360 Wait, 427 00:29:20,760 --> 00:29:22,640 though we can't speak for the entire Ming family. 428 00:29:23,240 --> 00:29:25,920 With such a large family, many members have died. 429 00:29:28,440 --> 00:29:31,040 But at least the matriarch and family head 430 00:29:31,480 --> 00:29:32,800 are definitely innocent. 431 00:29:37,320 --> 00:29:38,680 I, Ming, swear on my honor 432 00:29:39,360 --> 00:29:42,800 to help you uncover the truth no matter what. 433 00:29:43,760 --> 00:29:44,840 This fire burns so fiercely 434 00:29:45,400 --> 00:29:46,440 it lights up the night. 435 00:30:07,240 --> 00:30:09,520 You said Baoyue Tower is no longer a brothel 436 00:30:10,080 --> 00:30:11,760 What else would Teacher Keqin want from driving it in the future? 437 00:30:12,680 --> 00:30:14,160 The teacher thinks further ahead than we do 438 00:30:15,320 --> 00:30:16,480 The teacher didn't say anything either 439 00:30:16,560 --> 00:30:18,280 How should we arrange these women? 440 00:30:19,360 --> 00:30:20,360 No instructions. 441 00:30:20,840 --> 00:30:23,160 Probably waiting until after taking the three workshops. 442 00:30:25,120 --> 00:30:27,320 Did you hear about last night's fire? 443 00:30:28,960 --> 00:30:31,800 The Transport Office was burned to ruins, and the Three Great Workshops are gone. 444 00:30:32,560 --> 00:30:33,760 Why not earlier or later? 445 00:30:34,160 --> 00:30:35,800 It just had to burn when the teacher arrived in Jiangnan. 446 00:30:36,400 --> 00:30:37,480 With the Three Great Workshops gone, 447 00:30:38,080 --> 00:30:39,520 the Imperial Treasury can't hold on. 448 00:30:40,280 --> 00:30:41,560 This is too much of a coincidence. 449 00:30:44,240 --> 00:30:45,240 I refuse to believe 450 00:30:45,720 --> 00:30:46,960 that such a convenient fire could happen. 451 00:31:02,720 --> 00:31:05,960 Also, we've already located Yuan Meng in Jiangnan. 452 00:31:06,400 --> 00:31:07,560 Aren't we going to arrest her next? 453 00:31:08,320 --> 00:31:09,440 The teacher has his own plans. 454 00:31:11,480 --> 00:31:13,080 A bit profound 455 00:31:25,960 --> 00:31:28,120 Sir, I've returned. 456 00:31:28,200 --> 00:31:29,480 What terrible luck. 457 00:31:29,560 --> 00:31:32,280 I've walked through the entire fire site. 458 00:31:32,840 --> 00:31:34,560 The warehouses of the Three Great Workshops... 459 00:31:35,120 --> 00:31:36,120 have all been completely burned down. 460 00:31:36,200 --> 00:31:37,240 Nothing remains. 461 00:31:37,640 --> 00:31:39,880 The cause of the fire is difficult to investigate. 462 00:31:44,400 --> 00:31:46,160 - The people? - All dead. 463 00:31:47,040 --> 00:31:49,040 But I've checked the body count... 464 00:31:49,120 --> 00:31:51,880 and it matches the number of Three Great Workshops personnel. 465 00:31:51,960 --> 00:31:52,960 Not a single one missing. 466 00:31:54,000 --> 00:31:56,760 In other words, no survivors were left. 467 00:31:57,320 --> 00:31:59,600 I've also examined the bodies. 468 00:32:00,120 --> 00:32:02,320 I think there's something suspicious here. 469 00:32:03,560 --> 00:32:05,120 I examined two bodies in total. 470 00:32:05,200 --> 00:32:07,960 There was no soot deep in their throats. 471 00:32:08,040 --> 00:32:10,680 This means they were burned after death. 472 00:32:15,120 --> 00:32:17,160 But I didn't want to alert anyone, 473 00:32:17,840 --> 00:32:19,560 so I only checked these two. 474 00:32:19,640 --> 00:32:22,120 This fire was definitely no accident. 475 00:32:23,120 --> 00:32:24,120 Any concrete leads? 476 00:32:24,760 --> 00:32:26,960 Everything was burned clean, nothing left behind. 477 00:32:27,040 --> 00:32:28,040 No real clues. 478 00:32:28,880 --> 00:32:31,400 What do you think the Three Great Workshops represent? 479 00:32:32,920 --> 00:32:33,920 The imperial treasury. 480 00:32:34,440 --> 00:32:35,600 And... 481 00:32:35,680 --> 00:32:36,720 endless wealth. 482 00:32:37,280 --> 00:32:39,320 So who benefits from burning the Three Great Workshops? 483 00:32:40,040 --> 00:32:41,200 Who would... 484 00:32:43,880 --> 00:32:44,920 No one benefits. 485 00:32:46,320 --> 00:32:47,800 Therefore this fire... 486 00:32:48,200 --> 00:32:51,080 only burned the name of the Three Great Workshops. 487 00:32:52,880 --> 00:32:54,000 You mean to say... 488 00:32:54,680 --> 00:32:56,320 there's more to this than meets the eye? 489 00:32:57,440 --> 00:32:58,720 Old Wang, good work. Guard the back door. 490 00:32:59,280 --> 00:33:00,760 If this fire is truly suspicious, 491 00:33:01,320 --> 00:33:02,320 then news of it... 492 00:33:02,800 --> 00:33:04,320 should reach us soon. 493 00:33:09,320 --> 00:33:10,520 I'll go right away. 494 00:33:22,280 --> 00:33:23,440 Fan Xian returns to his residence 495 00:33:23,920 --> 00:33:26,200 He stays inside without making any moves 496 00:33:27,320 --> 00:33:29,000 -Where does he live? -The Moon Embrace Pavilion 497 00:33:30,280 --> 00:33:32,080 That brothel in the capital? 498 00:33:32,160 --> 00:33:34,960 Yes, the Jiangnan branch of the capital's brothel 499 00:33:36,080 --> 00:33:37,560 I’ve never been there 500 00:33:38,160 --> 00:33:39,560 Just heard rumors 501 00:33:42,600 --> 00:33:45,080 Seems even the righteous Fan Xian 502 00:33:45,480 --> 00:33:47,640 can’t resist wine, women, and wealth 503 00:33:48,880 --> 00:33:50,400 I thought 504 00:33:50,480 --> 00:33:53,480 he’d investigate this fire with great fanfare 505 00:33:53,560 --> 00:33:54,720 This massive fire 506 00:33:55,080 --> 00:33:57,520 burned everything to the ground 507 00:33:58,000 --> 00:33:59,000 Even if he investigates 508 00:33:59,600 --> 00:34:01,120 he has no leads 509 00:34:03,160 --> 00:34:06,160 I think he won’t be easily fooled 510 00:34:08,160 --> 00:34:09,600 Suspicions will surely arise 511 00:34:10,600 --> 00:34:12,720 But logically and reasonably, 512 00:34:14,120 --> 00:34:17,120 we have absolutely no reason to risk 513 00:34:17,200 --> 00:34:19,240 the destruction of our family by starting this fire. 514 00:34:19,880 --> 00:34:20,920 There's no motive, 515 00:34:22,040 --> 00:34:23,680 so naturally the Ming family wouldn't be suspected. 516 00:34:24,280 --> 00:34:25,440 That's impossible. 517 00:34:25,840 --> 00:34:27,040 If this were discovered, 518 00:34:27,120 --> 00:34:28,800 our entire clan would be executed. 519 00:34:28,880 --> 00:34:30,440 The Ming family aren't fools, senior brother. 520 00:34:30,800 --> 00:34:31,880 How is it impossible? 521 00:34:31,960 --> 00:34:33,680 Wealth can move gods, Your Highness. 522 00:34:34,160 --> 00:34:36,240 But what does this have to do with starting the fire, senior brother? 523 00:34:41,080 --> 00:34:43,400 - I'll take black. - Why do you take black, Your Highness? 524 00:34:45,200 --> 00:34:46,480 Because you're the prince. 525 00:34:46,920 --> 00:34:48,520 Very well, let's determine who goes first. 526 00:34:53,280 --> 00:34:55,720 I still believe that fire was just an accident. 527 00:34:55,800 --> 00:34:57,400 But I'm convinced the Ming family started it. 528 00:34:57,480 --> 00:34:59,480 The Ming family has secretly controlled the three great workshops for years. 529 00:34:59,560 --> 00:35:01,640 Now that our teacher is taking them over by imperial decree, the Mings surely resist. 530 00:35:01,720 --> 00:35:03,440 But our teacher has already arrived in Jiangnan. 531 00:35:03,520 --> 00:35:05,200 Whether surrendered or burned, 532 00:35:05,280 --> 00:35:06,680 they'll no longer belong to the Ming family. 533 00:35:07,560 --> 00:35:08,840 Why would they take such a risk? 534 00:35:08,920 --> 00:35:09,920 This is a capital offense. 535 00:35:10,680 --> 00:35:13,560 If the storeroom had long been emptied bit by bit by the Ming family, 536 00:35:13,640 --> 00:35:14,720 wouldn't that make sense? 537 00:35:19,880 --> 00:35:21,760 Teacher, I understand now. 538 00:35:21,840 --> 00:35:23,920 The Ming family set this fire deliberately to put on a show for the world. 539 00:35:24,000 --> 00:35:25,200 They wanted to divert the three major workshops. 540 00:35:25,280 --> 00:35:26,320 And then monopolize all that wealth. 541 00:35:27,640 --> 00:35:29,080 For people to be this greedy for wealth... 542 00:35:29,480 --> 00:35:30,760 And even cost so many lives... 543 00:35:30,840 --> 00:35:32,360 Aren't they afraid of Qing's laws? 544 00:35:32,440 --> 00:35:33,560 But that's the Ming family of Jiangnan. 545 00:35:33,640 --> 00:35:35,080 Why do you assume the worst in people? 546 00:35:35,160 --> 00:35:37,240 It's not that I assume the worst, Your Highness. 547 00:35:37,320 --> 00:35:39,760 People die for wealth—that's just human nature. 548 00:35:39,840 --> 00:35:41,000 You have no proof. 549 00:35:41,080 --> 00:35:42,520 I don't believe it. Could such a thing really happen? 550 00:35:42,600 --> 00:35:43,720 Yes. 551 00:35:50,080 --> 00:35:51,320 Your Highness may not know 552 00:35:52,080 --> 00:35:53,080 This is how I am 553 00:35:54,480 --> 00:35:55,480 My home 554 00:35:56,200 --> 00:35:57,200 Shijia Town 555 00:35:58,160 --> 00:35:59,240 was burned down just like that 556 00:36:01,600 --> 00:36:03,560 The disaster report from the magistrate stated 557 00:36:04,240 --> 00:36:06,000 Dry weather caused an accidental fire 558 00:36:07,520 --> 00:36:09,560 An entire town of people, Your Highness 559 00:36:11,000 --> 00:36:12,200 They're all dead. 560 00:36:14,240 --> 00:36:15,560 Couldn't they have run away? 561 00:36:16,560 --> 00:36:18,640 Yet they hastily closed the case as an accident. 562 00:36:19,440 --> 00:36:20,440 I don't believe it. 563 00:36:22,720 --> 00:36:23,720 What do you think? 564 00:36:25,200 --> 00:36:26,400 Do you think it was an accident... 565 00:36:28,280 --> 00:36:29,280 Or deliberate? 566 00:36:43,280 --> 00:36:45,120 Sorry about that, senior. 567 00:36:47,200 --> 00:36:48,200 I didn't know. 568 00:36:50,480 --> 00:36:51,480 My apologies. 569 00:36:51,960 --> 00:36:52,960 I touched a nerve there. 570 00:37:07,680 --> 00:37:09,480 There are many things you don't understand 571 00:37:10,080 --> 00:37:11,320 Wealth can move even the gods 572 00:37:11,960 --> 00:37:14,120 It can also make people cease to be human 573 00:37:15,600 --> 00:37:17,280 How's Xie Bi'an doing over there? 574 00:37:17,760 --> 00:37:19,360 Xie Bi'an isn't suspicious either 575 00:37:20,280 --> 00:37:22,720 After all, these past years, rumors have been circulating 576 00:37:23,560 --> 00:37:24,560 that mother and son... 577 00:37:25,760 --> 00:37:28,360 have been endlessly fighting over the family leadership position. 578 00:37:28,440 --> 00:37:29,560 But in reality, 579 00:37:30,560 --> 00:37:31,960 we share a loving mother-son relationship. 580 00:37:33,800 --> 00:37:35,360 The Grand Princess would never have imagined 581 00:37:36,320 --> 00:37:38,000 This time, mother and son join forces 582 00:37:40,000 --> 00:37:41,240 to lay out such an elaborate scheme 583 00:37:46,160 --> 00:37:48,680 There must be no mistakes at the fire scene 584 00:37:48,760 --> 00:37:49,800 Rest assured 585 00:37:49,880 --> 00:37:51,000 Even if they investigate 586 00:37:51,080 --> 00:37:53,600 we'll direct suspicion toward Li Yunrui 587 00:37:54,840 --> 00:37:55,840 After all 588 00:37:56,440 --> 00:37:57,640 in the conflicts between powerful figures 589 00:37:58,200 --> 00:38:00,080 who would truly care about merchants like us? 590 00:38:00,160 --> 00:38:01,360 We're beneath their notice 591 00:38:03,920 --> 00:38:05,240 As the saying goes 592 00:38:05,320 --> 00:38:08,000 The mightiest dam can be destroyed by an ant's nest 593 00:38:09,720 --> 00:38:10,840 But who would... 594 00:38:13,400 --> 00:38:15,400 truly pay attention to those ants? 595 00:38:16,680 --> 00:38:17,760 In a few more days 596 00:38:18,320 --> 00:38:19,320 the large ships will be deployed 597 00:38:19,400 --> 00:38:20,840 Everything is already prepared 598 00:38:21,960 --> 00:38:23,560 But the situation is too tense these days 599 00:38:23,640 --> 00:38:24,880 We dare not act recklessly 600 00:38:25,840 --> 00:38:27,080 Once everything is over 601 00:38:28,440 --> 00:38:29,480 and Fan Xian returns to the capital 602 00:38:30,160 --> 00:38:31,280 I'll deploy the large ships 603 00:38:31,360 --> 00:38:32,640 to transport the warehouse and workers 604 00:38:33,440 --> 00:38:34,440 out to sea 605 00:38:35,880 --> 00:38:37,560 Beware of human interference 606 00:38:37,640 --> 00:38:38,920 I've bribed two key officials 607 00:38:39,000 --> 00:38:40,200 They believe 608 00:38:40,280 --> 00:38:42,440 this grand scheme was arranged by Li Yunrui 609 00:38:44,520 --> 00:38:46,920 The workers are all obedient too 610 00:38:47,840 --> 00:38:48,960 Once everything is at sea... 611 00:38:51,280 --> 00:38:52,600 it will be a done deal 612 00:38:55,280 --> 00:38:58,720 It seems you need me less and less 613 00:38:59,600 --> 00:39:03,160 You've arranged everything yourself 614 00:39:05,440 --> 00:39:06,840 It's all thanks to mother's good teaching 615 00:39:07,560 --> 00:39:09,120 I deserve no credit at all 616 00:39:12,760 --> 00:39:13,960 My legs... 617 00:39:15,360 --> 00:39:18,560 are becoming less and less flexible. 618 00:39:20,640 --> 00:39:22,760 Seems like I'm just a useless person now. 619 00:39:29,240 --> 00:39:31,160 Mother, why do you call yourself useless? 620 00:39:32,080 --> 00:39:33,720 Come, let me carry you on my back. 621 00:39:50,200 --> 00:39:51,640 As the family head, 622 00:39:52,400 --> 00:39:54,560 you're becoming more secure in your position. 623 00:39:59,200 --> 00:40:00,400 Without Mother's guidance, 624 00:40:01,440 --> 00:40:02,440 family head... 625 00:40:03,520 --> 00:40:04,680 is just an empty title. 626 00:40:06,200 --> 00:40:08,880 What do you think is the biggest problem in Jiangnan? 627 00:40:09,800 --> 00:40:11,960 - The Ming family - Not them 628 00:40:14,320 --> 00:40:15,760 The Eldest Princess and Second Prince 629 00:40:16,360 --> 00:40:17,760 Actually, not them either 630 00:40:18,320 --> 00:40:19,960 - Then who could it be? - Sometimes, 631 00:40:20,040 --> 00:40:22,280 the problem might not be a person, but... 632 00:40:22,360 --> 00:40:23,600 human nature. 633 00:40:24,560 --> 00:40:25,920 All these years in Jiangnan, 634 00:40:26,240 --> 00:40:29,000 the Ming family has monopolized everything while other merchants struggle. 635 00:40:29,600 --> 00:40:30,600 The Ming family has grown wealthy, 636 00:40:30,680 --> 00:40:34,000 but poverty in the counties keeps increasing. 637 00:40:35,240 --> 00:40:36,520 So we should replace the Ming family. 638 00:40:37,800 --> 00:40:39,200 It wouldn't matter who replaces them. 639 00:40:39,280 --> 00:40:41,240 In a few years, there'd just be a new Ming family. 640 00:40:44,320 --> 00:40:46,640 During this southern trip, I heard something: 641 00:40:46,720 --> 00:40:48,800 "Without the Ming family, another would take their place. 642 00:40:48,880 --> 00:40:50,320 The Three Great Workshops are a treasure trove. 643 00:40:50,400 --> 00:40:52,840 Whoever controls them becomes the next Ming family." 644 00:40:54,120 --> 00:40:57,240 So who owns the Three Great Workshops doesn't matter. 645 00:40:57,320 --> 00:40:58,680 What matters is their nature. 646 00:40:58,760 --> 00:40:59,840 What nature? 647 00:41:00,400 --> 00:41:03,000 They contain the most profitable craftsmanship secrets in the world. 648 00:41:03,080 --> 00:41:04,080 I know that. 649 00:41:04,920 --> 00:41:06,400 Glassmaking, sugar refining, 650 00:41:06,960 --> 00:41:08,160 cotton weaving, perfume making - 651 00:41:08,640 --> 00:41:10,960 countless trade secrets never shared. 652 00:41:11,560 --> 00:41:13,040 I want to release them. 653 00:41:14,760 --> 00:41:15,760 Release them how? 654 00:41:16,800 --> 00:41:19,960 All the Three Great Workshops' secrets - I'll make them public. 655 00:41:22,040 --> 00:41:24,400 Release...release them where? 656 00:41:24,480 --> 00:41:26,760 Share the technology with all merchants. 657 00:41:28,400 --> 00:41:30,520 Sell them at sky-high prices to repay treasury debts. 658 00:41:34,000 --> 00:41:35,080 There would be fees, 659 00:41:35,560 --> 00:41:37,200 but not for treasury debts. 660 00:41:37,280 --> 00:41:39,200 I don't intend to charge exorbitant prices either. 661 00:41:39,280 --> 00:41:41,240 Each craft would have its own reasonable fee. 662 00:41:41,320 --> 00:41:43,400 Merchants would pay annual fees to use them. 663 00:41:43,480 --> 00:41:44,520 A steady, sustainable income. 664 00:41:44,600 --> 00:41:47,440 This is called "intellectual property rights." 665 00:41:52,480 --> 00:41:53,760 But this way, 666 00:41:53,840 --> 00:41:56,640 all the exclusive secrets of the imperial treasury will be gone. 667 00:41:56,720 --> 00:41:59,400 But this way, the common people will have hope. 668 00:41:59,960 --> 00:42:01,640 But the imperial treasury belongs to the royal family. 669 00:42:01,720 --> 00:42:04,440 Aren't the common people also part of the royal family's domain? 670 00:42:07,120 --> 00:42:08,120 Well... 671 00:42:09,360 --> 00:42:10,760 That does seem reasonable. 672 00:42:13,120 --> 00:42:14,720 The reason I chose the path of intellectual property 673 00:42:14,800 --> 00:42:17,040 is because true wealth 674 00:42:17,120 --> 00:42:18,440 shouldn't belong to just one family 675 00:42:18,520 --> 00:42:20,280 nor any royal enterprise, 676 00:42:20,360 --> 00:42:21,360 but rather 677 00:42:21,880 --> 00:42:23,680 shared progress for all, with wealth stored among the people. 678 00:42:24,280 --> 00:42:25,960 If this path succeeds, 679 00:42:26,040 --> 00:42:28,440 perhaps it could give some weight 680 00:42:29,360 --> 00:42:30,560 to those overlooked lives. 681 00:42:33,080 --> 00:42:34,080 Teacher, 682 00:42:34,960 --> 00:42:36,440 does His Majesty know 683 00:42:37,320 --> 00:42:38,320 about this path of storing wealth among the people? 684 00:42:41,600 --> 00:42:43,560 First accomplish the task, then report back to the capital. 685 00:42:45,880 --> 00:42:47,000 Teacher, 686 00:42:47,080 --> 00:42:48,480 I think we should seek approval first. 687 00:42:48,560 --> 00:42:50,360 Acting first and reporting later in such matters 688 00:42:50,960 --> 00:42:52,440 I fear His Majesty might... 689 00:42:53,160 --> 00:42:54,360 unleash his thunderous wrath. 690 00:42:54,440 --> 00:42:55,720 To accomplish great things, 691 00:42:55,800 --> 00:42:57,200 one cannot hesitate and look back.