Original subtitles

Produced by Hou Hsiao-Hsien Film Production Company Limited

Based on the novel BIOGRAPHIES OF FLOWERS ON THE SEA

Written by Han Ziyun (Han Bangqing) Translated by Zhang Ailing (Eileen Chang)

In the late 19th century, in the elite courtesan district of Shanghai's English Concession, known at the time as "Changsan Studios."

In the late 19th century, in the elite courtesan district of Shanghai's English Concession, known at the time as "Changsan Studios." (This district was divided into 'wards' whose names will appear in the later caption headings)

A Sure Win!

You played the same hand.

That was a tie.

- Three Primes! - Three Primes!

Three Primes. Oh, why do I keep losing today?

The loser drinks the aged wine, alright?

The loser drinks aged wine. Come on, come on.

Even now I don't bow to you. Let's see what you'll throw down

- Five Laureates! - Two Together!

- Five Laureates! - Five Laureates!

Five Laureates - a tie, a tie.

In a tie, both players drink. In fairness, a cup a person.

Okay, let's drink up, cmon. Okay, drink up together.

- Drink the aged wine. - A cup a person, that's right

- Now this is a good time! - If I gotta drink, I'm gonna drink.

Who's up next?

- Who's up? - It's my turn.

It's Zifu's turn! It's Zifu's turn!

Come on.

Use the poulet-pattern cups!

Yufu.

Two Together...

- Eight Fairies! - Eight Steeds!

- Eight Fairies! - Eight Steeds!

- Two Together! - Three Primes!

Three Primes! Three Primes!

Drink the aged wine! Drink the aged wine!

My younger brother's got real skills... look at how many girls drink for him!

- A talent alright, he's something else! - Second round.

Two Together...

- Quick Gains! - Five Laureates!

- Quick Gains! - Eight Fairies!

Eight fairies. You lost.

Pour him a cup, fill it up good.

Your brother's gotten quite good at this, eh?

You've all schooled him well, isn't that right'?

Two Together...

- Four Joys! - Eight Fairies!

- Four Joys! - Two Together!

- Three Primes! - Four Joys!

Four Joys...

Eh...

Give him a good pour.

You have to drink up again.

Thank you. Won't you be a little considerate?

Aiyo! "Be a little considerate!"

"Be a little considerate!"

Yufu, who is she?

- Fragrance's little sister. - Don't you know?

Fragrance...

she's always away, from illness. Her sister stands in for her.

Little missy! Our many thanks to you!

Let's see... we should let Yufu go early.

The rest of us can go on playing. Why's that?

They won't let him drink, since a certain someone is concerned for his well-being.

Have some more aged wine! Drink up, make yourself at home!

He and this... [sniff] Fragrance are really hitting it off!

Let me tell you... couples who hit it off, I've seen my share of them.

But I've never seen the likes of those two!

H ow';

Just like toffee... stuck tight!

Glued together!

Together they go out, together they come in.

Stuck cloyingly close. But even a day apart feels unbearable.

She's got her maids running everywhere tracking him down.

- What if she can't find him'? - Can't find him'?

Then she has a crying fit!

Fa-dia: to pout in a girlishly cute and flirtatiously coy manner That's called "pouting." That's what it is!

I tell you, those two, I've never seen a pair get on so well!

That's how it should be, right'?

When she does find him, what's that like?

Let me tell you. One time, I made a point to go see them.

That morning, I found the two of them just sitting there face-to-face.

He's gazing at her, she's gazing at him.

- They were just gazing at each other. - Not saying a word?

Chi: a childlike rapture and artless devotion that to outsiders appears "dopey." The word's usage can be both dismissive and sympathetic. Not a word. The two of them just lovestruck dopey.

- You know how she explained it? - How?

"We don't know either."

This is called: To know it in your heart Come, drink up! Drink the aged wine!

I'd say fate brought them together.

- You see, Zifu considers it fate. - I too think it's fate.

- Oh, you too? I think it's bad karma. - Bad karma?

Look at how pale Yufu's been lately.

She's got him ringed in. There's no jumping out!

He does look pale, right?

One time I offered, "Yufu, let's go to the opera."

- Know what Fragrance said? - What'd she say?

"Opera? It's just clang-a-ding-dang, the noise drives me nuts!"

Oh opera's first-rate fun!

Sol said, "Yufu, let's go on a horse-carriage ride instead."

Good idea!

Go for a spin, see some sights.

Know what Fragrance said? Get this...

"A carriage? The jiggle joggle bouncing and jouncing drives me crazy!

Carriage rides are most enjoyable.

That wasn't the end of it. Get this!

My next suggestion was... why not get a miniature photo taken?

- Great idea! - Right? As a memento.

Know what she said?

"The sparkles of my eyes will get snapped into the camera!"

Talk about capturing her eyes!

Next morning, I took a look

She was licking his eyes. All licking and lapping.

Licking his eyes? Ew...

Getting your eyelids licked feels real good. Aiyo!

Licking them! You got that?

Been licking them half a month now!

Getting your eyes licked feels real good! Good times indeed!

Come, have the aged wine.

Eat the hors d'oeuvres before they get cold.

Come, come.

Wow, what dish is this?

Good stuff, good stuff.

Beancurd stew. Sandpot-summered beancurd stew

Come, have some hors d'oeuvres.

What's the matter with Master Wang'? [who just left the table]

Because Master Wang called on Laelia

Crimson and her maids chased Laelia to the Ming Garden

and beat her.

- Woah... - Really?

I didn't know she had it in her. That's awful vicious!

Oh please, she's not vicious at all.

Now, if I were Crimson, I wouldn't go beat her.

It's tiresome work pummeling someone. And if you break her hair ornaments

Master Wang must pay to replace them. He's the one who'd feel the brunt of it!

You've got it all figured out. So what would you do?

- Me? - Yes.

- I'm in no mood to tell you. - There's something to this!

Try calling on Cassia and see what I do, okay?

Is that a dare? Well, I'll do just that then

Better behave, or I'll have Cassia come give you a beat down!

My, oh my, you made a good showing.

What's that about? Putting on airs for Master Hong?

People like you can be utterly unreasonable.

Guan-ren: courtesans are called "officials" in Shanghai. Like officials in government, courtesans are ranked, and bound by service. Think about it, as an official, you serve numerous patrons...

but you don't let patrons call on other officials. How does that make sense?

Try explaining that.

It's simple enough.

We're in business, so there's no other way.

A year has three billing seasons. Now, if you book me exclusively for three seasons of the year...

Then I'm all yours. Wouldn't that be nice?

You mean to hit me up, do you?

Aiyo! I take no calls but yours. Who would I hit up if not you, hmm?

Right! But we wouldn't mind if you did!

Come, drink, drink!

Drink some aged wine, come now...

Master Zhu, let's play a hand!

Come on, let's have some fun.

Joy and Fortune...

Five Laureates! - Two Together!

- Two Together! - Five Laureates!

FLOWERS ON THE SEA Also known as FLOWERS OF SHANGHAI

Huifang Ward: Shen Xiaohong (Crimson)

Master Wang, you're at fault for getting the wrong idea.

At the start, you two had talked it over clearly:

Even booking ten Laelias is nothing.

But hiding it from her isn't altogether good. When she learned you called on Laelia,

she said, "Master Wang won't be coming any more. Laelia dragged him away."

Master Wang only ordered a table of wine at Laelia's last night.

But he still came here after all, right'?

Master Hong.

Courtesans were addressed respectfully as "Maestros" because of their status as masters of musical performance. Don't blame our Maestro. She was anxious.

Courtesans were addressed respectfully as "Maestros" because of their status as masters of musical performance.

Courtesans were addressed respectfully as "Maestros" because of their status as masters of musical performance. When Master Wang first began calling on our Maestro...

she had many other patrons.

When she received Master Wang's favor, some got angry and stopped coming.

We went to invite them back, and Master Wang said:

"Never mind if they stop coming. I will set you up myself."

Master Wang, you certainly said these words.

That put our Maestro at ease, so she stopped receiving patrons.

You also said...

No matter how much our Maestro owes, you'll help pay her debts.

Master Wang has started calling on Laelia now.

Wouldn't our Maestro feel anxious?

There's no need to reproach him. Laelia has been upstaged already.

Master Wang is here now

In terms of face, you can hold up your head. So put it behind you.

Master Wang will buy you clothes and accessories

and he'll clear whatever debts you have.

That settles everything, doesn't it'?

So what if he called on Laelia.

But I never imagined he'd keep it from me this whole time.

Now, he willfully buys up all her bookings.

Frankly speaking, Master Wang has come for four, five yea rs.

What you see before you is all he's ever given me.

Yet Laelia is decked head to toe in just a week.

And there are friends who, currying favor with him,

have actually set her up with furniture. I'm sure you know.

If I may say so, this is all baseless.

Tang-zi: "salons" are courtesan establishments. Salon officials need only bother with clearing their call slips, and nothing more

What responsibility does the patron have to an official's debts?

To ask the patron to pay them...

frankly speaking, officials don't rely on one patron.

Patrons don't call on just one official.

If he pleases, he romps some more. If not, he cruises less.

What's all this jibber-jabber!

Master Hong is absolutely right. Officials don't rely on one patron.

Our Maestro had other patrons. Why should he be the only one?

You're the one who offered to settle Maestro's debts.

If you, true to your word, paid her debts...

there'd be none of this jibber-jabber.

It's just that you started calling on Laelia.

Sure, no patron calls on one official. What can our Maestro say to that?

Now, you fail to help pay a small debt,

and also go calling on Laelia.

Master Wang, think it over yourself.

Is this jibber-jabber Maestro's doing?

Or Master Wang's?

Alright now.

It's none of our business, this jibber-jabber.

It doesn't concern us. Let's go!

- Master Wang, how can you just leave? - Goldie!

Master Wang, if want to leave, then just leave.

We won't detain you. But I wish to make something clear.

Last night, Goldie and I sat up with Maestro on her bed.

We didn't sleep a wink.

Tonight, we'll sleep soundly.

We aunties are in no position to bear responsibility.

Should some grave misfortune occur, it wouldn't concern us either.

Master Wang, let me say it up front. The blame cannot be put on us.

Perhaps... we'll head out first.

Why don't you stay a while longer?

I'm very sorry to have put you out over this.

Let me set up a banquet tomorrow to thank you.

It was no trouble at all.

Were you afraid to come alone? Thought we'd gang up on you?

You brought two friends to help. What was that about?

To speak on your behalf, to vent your anger?

That was truly maddening.

Master Wang's heart is in the right place. It's those friends of his that give him ideas.

If they didn't take him to Laelia's, how would he know her?

How would he not?

His friends didn't make the introduction.

Ye-ji: a "wild chicken" is a street prostitute. It was he who hunted down that wild chicken.

Changsan is the highest class of courtesans in Shanghai. Literally, "long threes," the name derives from a domino tile with a pair of threes These days, Laelia's no wild chicken. She's Changsan now.

She now commands an opera troupe, it's awfully impressive!

Master Wang,

you booked her several times. How much have you spent? Upwards of a thousand?

Don't speak nonsense.

Who's speaking nonsense?

Master Wang don't get the wrong idea.

Have a smoke.

Master Wang, have some ginseng broth.

Ah-zhu, what does Crimson mean by this?

Mean by what?

I'm going to clear Maestro's debts, yet she says I'm leading her on.

Actually, Master Wang is most knowing What would we know!

You put it smartly. But I asked because I don't understand.

Master Wang is a clever person Quite knowing.

Our Maestro has always been good to you. Why did you not clear her debts then?

Tonight, you two quarreled and you swore to clear her debts.

As if out of provocation.

Think about it - how could Maestro wish to hold you to those words?

I do whatever stops her being upset, yet she faults me.

What does Maestro have to be upset about?

However much our Maestro owes, sooner or later, Master Wang will take care of it.

Take care of it as it suits you.

Regardless of how you two get on, you wouldn't grudge this trifle, right?

Your explanation doesn't makes sense.

If I don't clear her debts, she says I'm no good. And if I do, I'm still no good.

What exactly does she want me to do?

Master Wang, how do you expect me to convey it to you?

Don't be angry.

Don't be angry any more, okay?

I'll do whatever you want of me.

All you can say is, "Don't be angry."

If it were you, wouldn't you be mad?

If it were me, I'd keep on being mad.

Mad till daybreak.

Don't be mad any more.

Stop crying, okay?

Come here.

No more crying. Okay?

Gongyang Ward: Zhou Shuangzhu (Pearl)

Master Hong is here!

Where did you go last night?

I went over to Laelia's, then went home.

Why did your mother beat Jewel?

It wasn't anything.

Just because Jewel was running her mouth. She's also in the wrong.

She must have the last word but can't give as good as she gets. And can't stand losing face.

Against Jade, she's won't budge one bit.

No good can come from them mixed up together. It was a mess.

What was Jewel mouthing off about?

She said...

"Jade has no silver hookah and took the one in my room

"Even when she goes out, she's wearing my old clothes."

Jade happened to overhear and now refuses to wear those clothes.

She didn't get up this morning. Said she wasn't feeling well.

That's why mom scolded Jewel, and even asked me to go talk to Jade.

You talked to her? How did you put it?

I was none too pleased to do it.

Just seeing her makes me angry.

So what she has some bookings. Now she thinks she's somebody.

She calls in Jewel for a thrashing like some salon servant she bought.

Jade's a rather fierce one.

Fortunately, you're no salon servant.

Or else she'd look down on you too.

Don't say that. We get along quite well.

What I say, she heeds. More so than what mom says.

Maestro Jade, a booking!

Coming.

I told her...

"If you won't go, mom won't have a choice...

but to send Jewel in your place."

When she heard that, off she went.

You put it well.

Should have food before heading out.

Don't want to drink on an empty stomach?

I'm not going to eat. I gotta run.

Give me a holler. I'll finish dinner and get ready real quick.

Got it.

Third Maestro, food is ready.

Go ask Jade to come join us.

Elder sister.

- Feeling better now? - Yes.

Here, eat some more.

That mouth of Jewel's has no rhyme or reason.

She runs her mouth and just goes with it.

I also can't stand this about her.

You're not like Jewel.

You bring in bookings, and mom likes you too.

Keep one eye open, and shut the other.

If her words rub you wrong, take it up with me. Don't go to mom

Do you think perhaps I'm siding with Jewel?

I'm not taking her side.

The way I see it, we're together at a salon for the time being.

We're just working as officials and will marry in two years or so.

No matter how lucrative your skills may be, our time as officials

lasts but a short while.

With that perspective, it's okay to put up with her a bit.

Elder sister makes too much of it.

I'm a dolt who can't tell when someone means well.

But elder sister tells me for my sake. How could I take offense?

It's good you know that in your heart.

Eat up.

Shangren Ward: Huang Cuifeng (Phoenix)

- Have money on you? - Yeah.

Add it up yourself, the seniority of your years!

Yet you're still talking up lovers!

You have any sense of shame?

Going to take this to bankroll them again?

I won't.

I wont chide you any further.

When it runs out, see who you'll borrow from again!

Oh, don't worry. I won't ask you again.

Master Luo, thank you! I'm awfully embarrassed.

At least you realize it's embarrassing.

What does she need foreign dollars for?

This mom of ours is truly maddening!

It's not that I want to carp at her.

She lends to lovers when she's flush, and comes asking me when she runs out.

Chide her, and she feigns muddleheadedness.

You can scold her and beat her, but she'll forget it all in a few days.

- And carries on as before. - A booking for the First Maestro!

I've no way to handle her.

- Where is it? - Rear Boulevard.

Alright.

Who's her lover?

Count them up - there are scores of them!

Never mind the old lovers.

Just the new ones alone, she's got a bunch.

Someone her age, carrying on like that!

Is the old man in the servant chambers one of them?

That's Mr. Zhang, her tailor. How could he be her lover?

He came for her tailoring tab She's short on funds.

This call at Rear Boulevard, where is it'?

At the Qian Manor again.

It's a mahjong party. I'm to stand in for another player.

When seating arrangements don't change, I'm stuck playing, unable to leave.

Sometimes, I sit there for two, three hours.

It's exasperating.

If you find it annoying, why not turn it down'?

How can I refuse a booking? Mom would give me an earful.

She dares to chastise you?

What does mom not dare say?

Mom naturally has nothing to say since I've made no mistakes.

But with the slightest slip-up, think she won't take me to task?

What is it? Elder sister. Okay. Just sit tight for a bit. I'll be back soon.

Look.

Got beaten by your mom again?

I told you: with patrons, be a little fawning.

But you don't listen! Look at what's come of it.

That's not it. My mom isn't like yours.

If I'm not fawning, naturally I get beaten. But when I am, I'm beaten just the same!

This time, it's just because a patron called on me three, four times.

Mom said I fawned over him, and beat me!

Is that mouth of yours good for nothing?

I said exactly what elder sister taught me:

"Don't hit me if you want me to work. If I'm beaten, I won't work."

When mom heard this, she willfully shut the door,

pressed me to the bed, and asked if I dare refuse to work!

Then say that you absolutely refuse to work. See how much she beats you.

Elder sister, it's just that I couldn't take the hurt.

To refuse to work... I just couldn't bring myself to say it.

If you can't take it,

get an engagement to an official, marry into his house.

You're not fit for the engagements of this house.

You had some opium?

I had a jar over there

Just a touch of it is nasty bitter. I couldn't take it down.

I've heard taking raw opium gives your stomach killer pain.

How awful!

You ignoramus.

For her to learn what you know, a lifetime wouldn't be enough.

Just think about it, early last month...

Third sister Zhu's guest, Mr. Chen, ordered a table of wine,

and propped up her standing.

But that was over a month ago.

Another patron ordered dried and candied fruit, and three rounds of wine.

Who'd have known he was an old sweetheart of hers?

Ah yes! He's the clerk at the foreign goods store.

He only comes after a full meal, and hangs around till midnight.

You tell me...

how can third sister not give her a beating?

So, no wine orders. How many outside bookings?

Aiya! Just a single order of wine. There are no bookings to speak of.

You did a dollar's business all month!

You expect your mom to feed off the winter wind?

Well, do you?

You expect her to feed off the winter wind?

What's more, you go looking for a good time, for a beau!

Enough already. What's the point of scolding her?

That third sister Zhu is useless!

She should beat you dead and be done with it. You just sit there bleeding cash!

Enough already. Don't scold her any more.

Get her out of here! The sight of her drives me mad!

Where did this bad luck come from? How wretched.

East He-xing Ward: Zhang Huizhen (Laelia)

Sixteen foreign dollars. Is that expensive?

That's too much. Ten dollars is more like it.

Give him ten, at most twelve.

For emeralds, have Master Hong get a better price at the City-wall Shrine.

I must trouble Master Hong for an emerald hairpin then.

I'll take care of it.

Ah-qiao!

Coming.

Bring washcloths, and clear the table.

Yes.

You have some too.

I don't want any.

If I get addicted, how can I do business?

You won't get addicted!

Crimson has always smoked, and isn't addicted.

Crimson, well of course. She has skills.

And is good at doing business.

Even if she gets addicted, she'll be fine.

If only I were like her.

If Crimson's so good at doing business, how come she has no patrons?

How do you know she has none?

I saw her account book for last season.

Aside from me, she only has a few old patrons, who made twenty to thirty bookings.

With you as a patron,

and twenty, thirty bookings on the side is quite good as it is.

You don't understand.

She has a lot of expenses.

Her pa rents and brothers all depend on her for support

A small household can't have many expenses.

What expenses could they have?

It's just that her own expenditures are a bit too high.

She herself doesn't spend that much.

She just takes a horse-carriage ride every few days.

Horse-carriage rides only cost so much.

- So where does the money go? - How would I know?

You say she spends a lot. Try explaining her expenses.

I was just hazarding a guess about where it all goes.

Don't go repeating this nonsense to her.

Should you say something,

she'll think I'm badmouthing her, and berate me again.

Talk to me about her expenditures. I won't say anything to her.

Hmm?

What do you want me to say?

You've been together three, four years now.

What don't you already know? Yet you ask me.

You're a fool.

Crimson's berated you so many times.

It's one thing not to criticize her. But here you are covering up for her.

When I first met her, she told me...

"The hardest part of being an official is meeting a good patron."

Now that she's met me,

she no longer takes other callers.

I said, "If you won't take callers, why not marry me?"

Over and over again she said yes.

But she was just humoring me.

At the time, she said she'd marry once her debts were paid.

When I paid them, she said her parents disapproved.

Master Wang is very kind. Invite him and he's here.

We still have some face. Haven't gone under.

Maestro, you have me to thank.

Seems to me she doesn't want to marry.

I can't tell what she's thinking.

Master Wang, have a smoke.

Being here must be trying for you.

They're all blundering boobs. No one helps you pack your pipe.

It's not as if I need anyone to.

Master Wang, have some tea.

The jeweler brought this?

Yes.

Sixteen foreign dollars.

Is that more expensive than at the City-wall Shrine?

You already have several like this. You're getting another?

You can buy them for others, but I can't buy one for myself?

I'm not saying you can't...

Since you already have some, why not get something else instead?

I'll buy other pieces too.

Hairpins... it's true I won't use them.

But my anger hasn't subsided.

So I'll just waste sixteen more of your dollars and get them.

Then spend the sixteen on something else, okay?

This hairpin isn't even anything special.

I'm nothing special either, so nothing else suits me.

The Maestro makes a good jest.

Who hasn't heard of the Shanghai Bund's Maestro Shen? Nothing special?

Nowadays, am I still a Maestro?

I'm no better than a wild chicken!

To be called "Maestro," I wouldn't presume.

Sis, I must've met a foe from a former life!

We just had a row, and she's still ranting against me!

I can't live like this!

- She wasn't picking on you. - Oh yes she was!

If not, why'd she tell me to steer clear of her!

Okay, okay, I give in.

From now on, I won't go talk in mom's room.

Happy now?

Whatever urgent matter you two have, don't speak of it further.

Jewel, go back to your room.

Jade, take a seat here.

I've told you so many times not to argue with her.

She's not easy to get on with. You know that, right?

Pearl.

Master Hong.

Zifu went to Phoenix's to host a banquet.

Oh.

- Hey, let's go there later, okay? - Alright.

Jade, you can take your leave.

In the political context, "pure officials" are unsullied by corruption In courtesan culture, "pure officials" refer to virgins. Nowadays, pure officials have more up their sleeve than sullied ones.

You were all at the table but didn't notice it.

Notice what?

While you were all drinking at the table...

Fifth Young Master slipped an emerald pendant under the table to Jade.

Afterwards, Jade asked me to keep it from you.

What did you say to that?

I said, What's the harm in telling Master Hong?

If something comes up, you can ask him for help.

If Fifth Young Master doesn't come, then have Master Hong invite him.

Wouldn't that be nice?

Jade is ready for big business now.

When a courtesan's virginity is sold to a client, the ceremony is called "lighting the big candle." You should let her light the big candle.

Why don't you be the matchmaker?

You be the matchmaker. I'll just help you.

An invitation card.

Master Wang is here!

Maestro, Master Wang is here

Maestro.

Alright already! I got it.

I guess I was wrong to give you a holler.

Ah-zhu. Maestro, are you having dinner? What's the use in eyeing others with envy? There's no other way about it when business is bad.

We haven't had dinner yet Call up two dishes for us.

But you've been drinking. How could you not have eaten yet?

I really haven't.

- Maestro, shall I call up some food? - I don't want to eat!

Master Wang, just wait a bit if you want to order something

Maestro just came back from a call, and hasn't had even a bite to eat.

Wait a bit, so she can have some congee first.

Ah-liang, come pour some tea.

Master Hong.

I'll head out first.

Master Hong, you're leaving?

Oh, goodbye.

What's the matter?

Leave me alone.

I have something to say to you. Come sit with me.

Just say it here.

I don't want to see you unhappy like this.

Every time I come, you're unhappy.

You know how hard it is to see you like this?

If only for my sake, please don't be like this.

Naturally, I have nothing to be happy about. What do you want me to do?

If you're unhappy here, then go somewhere happy!

I speak to you kindly, yet you talk back like that!

Think about it

When you come here, I don't blame you for anything.

Or offend you in any way.

But you always say I'm the unhappy one.

You also say I talk back to you.

You may not realize it, but you think it makes me happy hearing you say that?

In a word, I'm in the wrong.

You can hit me or curse me if I'm bad like that. Just don't treat me like this, okay?

Come here, I want to discuss something with you.

Thank you.

Ham congee.

You go ahead.

Come, come.

- Master Ge, let's play a hand. - Okay!

- Let's add a cap first. - Okay.

Two Together...

- Two Together! - Five Laureates!

- Five Laureates! - Eight Steeds!

- Four Joys! - Four Joys!

- Four Joys! - Two Together! Aiyo!

Master Zhu, you lost!

Alright, drink up, drink up!

Once more! Once more!

Let's add a cap.

Two Together...

- Two Together! - Four Joys!

- Two Together! - Five Laureates!

Hehe, Five Laureates.

Drink up, drink up!

Food is sewed!

Good, put it here.

Gongyang Ward's Third Maestro and Junior Maestro have arrived!

Oh this soup is really good. Come, have some.

- That dish there! - Okay.

Master Wang, have some.

Jade.

Young Master Zhu called for you.

Shuren!

Have a drink.

Who is he?

Zhu Airen's nephew. His name is Shuren.

I brought him to show him a good time.

Hey Master Hong, how about we play a hand?

Okay.

You both play a good hand.

You've got nothing on me!

Put the wine here. Yes, that's right.

Two Together...

- Two Together! - Five Laureates!

Aiyo!

He got me this time!

You lost, you lost.

A rare sight!

Shuren...

Shuren, try your hand.

- I'm no good at it. - There's nothing to it!

- No worries! - Play a hand!

Come on, come on.

Full Fortune & Longevity...

- Eight-Immortals Bridge! - A Sure Win!

- Quick Gains! - Two Together!

- Three Primes! - A Sure Win!

You lost to him!

- Let's go again. - Go again.

Full Fortune & Longevity...

- A Sure Win! - A Sure Win!

- A Sure Win! - A Sure Win!

A Sure Win! A Sure Win!

Drink some more, drink some more.

Go again! Go again!

- Five Laureates! - Two Together!

- Five Laureates! - A Sure Win!

Lost to him again!

Master Luo lost twice! Not in good form is he?

Another round!

Another round! He won't admit defeat.

Full Fortune & Longevity...

Three Primes! Three Primes!

I'll drink it for you.

- What happened? - Spilled the cup!

- Don't worry, it's nothing. - Just pat it off.

What are you playing with there?

Take a look.

You know what that is?

In the erotic novel Plum in the Golden Vase, the heroine is tied to the garden's grape trellis, splaying her legs open for various games The "Grape Trellis." What's there not to know?

In the erotic novel Plum in the Golden Vase, the heroine is tied to the garden's grape trellis, splaying her legs open for various games

In the erotic novel Plum in the Golden Vase, the heroine is tied to the garden's grape trellis, splaying her legs open for various games Don't talk to him about it. He's a naughty one!

That's foolish talk. What "Grape Trellis"?

What are you giggling about so delightfully?

Aiya!

Put that away quick, before elder sister sees and scolds you.

Master Luo.

Phoenix wants to clear her bondage debt. Did she tell you?

Yeah she told me. It seems she's unable to.

It's not that she's unable to.

Think about it. If she intends to leave, she doesn't have to say so.

But if she brings it up, you bet she can bring it off.

And it's not as if I'd refuse her.

Frankly, it's not her I want, but the work she does.

If I refused to let her go, she'd have no motivation to work for me.

So I might as well let her go.

So why did she tell me she can't do it?

Aiya! I don't want to speak badly of her, but...

Phoenix is a sly one, as Master Luo knows full well.

When I started this business, the girls I bought were only seven, eight years old.

I had to raise them till they were teenagers for them to begin working.

Their food, clothes and provisions - that goes without saying.

I also had to train them in each and every matter and manner.

When salon servants grow up, not all are fit to do business.

But that Phoenix, she's a fine one, and has helped me considerably.

But now that she wants to leave, to clear her bondage debt...

she says I originally paid 100 for her

and, compounded tenfold, the total is 1,000.

Master Luo, let's reason this out...

It makes no sense to equate the old price with the current value!

She says 1,000. What are you asking for?

In all good conscience, I say it like it is.

Go ask people at the teahouses to see that it checks out.

In one season, her bookings alone total 1,000.

Not to mention the spending money and gifts given by her patrons.

Master Luo, how about she pay 3,000 for her bondage debt?

That's just her earnings for one year.

When she runs her own business, she'll certainly make good money.

Master Luo, isn't that right'?

Look at Zhufeng here...

Aiya! You playing dead? Your soul left your body?

Just look at her.

A girl like her brings no business. No one wants her.

I feed her for naught

For just 100, I'd happily let her go!

The bondage debt for those on the Shanghai Bund

has gone for 3,000 as well as 1,000. There's no set standard.

We can all meet on middle ground. I can help pick up part of it.

Everyone pitch in a little. If the deal is successful,

it's a good thing, right'?

Yes! Master Luo is absolutely right!

I never insisted she give 3,000.

Anytime Master Luo utters a word, I'm pleased to work something out.

You're back!

Master Luo, think it over, okay?

Okay.

- Did Zhufeng doze off'? - I didn't.

Look at your eyes. Like you're dead asleep!

I've been listening to mom the whole time. I didn't doze off.

Did she doze off?

Your mom already hit her. Let it go, don't mind her.

You hurry off now.

Your mom was just discussing your bondage debt.

She is looking to get 3,000.

I told her to meet on middle ground.

And that I'll help out a bit.

Everyone pitch in a bit. If it succeeds, it's a good thing.

Who asked you to help pay?

It's my bondage debt, so I'll do it my way. Don't act as if you speak for me.

Running your mouth off.

See for yourself.

Anyone who works as a procuress must to be quite ruthless.

Mom started out as an auntie.

Then got some money together and bought us salon servants.

How much could that have cost'?

Over the last five years, my income alone comes to about 20,000.

All of it goes to her.

My clothing, jewelry and furnishings are worth another 10,000.

You think I can take it with me'?

Yet she still asks for 3,000?

3,000 is no big deal.

If she's got what it takes, come and get it!

Phoenix, Master Luo just said your bondage debt is 2,000.

He'll help pay half of it. Isn't that wonderful?

Get me a light.

You've got quite a bit. I didn't know you were so loaded.

Very well, in addition to the 2,000, you put in another 5,000 foreign dollars.

What makes you think I have that much'?

Come, this is no time for false modesty.

You jump at whatever mom says.

When I clear my debt and leave,

I'll have 3,000 in clothes, jewelry and furnishings - just enough to start a business.

You're pitching in 1,000 for me. How can you say you don't have money?

If you don't have it, you must want me to starve to death when I leave.

So, you mean you don't want my help?

Help is of course welcomed.

As long as you take care of clothing and accessories for me,

you can pitch in whatever amount you please!

Okay.-

Madam!

Never mind what we discussed.

Her bondage debt is no longer my concern.

Aiyo! You can do that in good conscience?!

Reflect on it a moment.

You were orphaned at seven, you fell into a salon.

Out of pity, I raised you as my own child.

I combed your hair, bound your feet, and tended you in every way till today.

In what way did I wrong you so that you take me as your enemy?

I know you want to clear your debt to move up in the world.

I also want to see you move up, so in the future you can take care of me.

Is this how you mean to take care of me?

So tender in years, yet so hard of heart!

See if you come to a good end!

Mom, don't be like that. What are you worked up about?

I'm your salon servant. Whether I can clear my debt is all up to you.

Fine, I won't then. Keep up the ruckus and

we'll be the laughingstock next door.

Ms. Zhao, you try talking some sense into her!

Officials who clear their bondage debt

often have patrons pitch in.

If Master Luo is unwilling...

you, as my own daughter, should talk to him for me!

Master Luo offers to help but you actually refuse!

Anyone can see what's going on. You want his money all for yourself!

- Your company is hard to come by! - Three Primes!

- Four Joys! - Four Joys!

Down a cup!

I'll drink it for you.

We agreed beforehand that everyone drinks for himself.

We did indeed.

Splendid!

Master Ge, good to see you! Have a seat.

Don't any of you stop now! Everyone drink the aged wine!

Don't look, just pour Pour the wine!

Let me toast to you.

Let's have a cup together.

Good! Dry the cup, dry the cup!

Drain it, drain it!

Master Zhu has got some skills!

Come on, let's play a hand.

Come, let's play a hand.

Shall we play as a team?

Oh, the two of you?

Master Wang, you're with me!

- I'll play him first. - Okay you go first.

Get ready...

Start with Full Family Fortune.

Full Family Fortune...

- Five Laureates! - Full Family Fortune!

- Two Together! - Five Laureates!

Five Laureates! Five Laureates - drink up!

- Okay, your turn - He's up now.

You must drink the aged wine.

Spare him? You play me then, come on.

Full Family Fortune, okay?

Full Family Fortune...

Two Together! Two Together - drink up!

He's all thumbs, right'?

He's all thumbs!

Drink it down, drink it down!

Master Luo has to drink too You can't just watch!

Come, have some hors d'oeuvres.

Have the hors d'oeuvres before they get cold.

This fish was just caught from Huangpu River.

Fresh as can be. Everyone eat up.

Come quick! Someone's outside! Come quick!

What's going on?

- I don't know. - Let's go and see.

What exactly is going on?

I'll go see.

- Something's happened. - What is it?

Let's play a hand.

Full Family Fortune...

- Two Together! - Two Together!

- Two Together! - Two Together!

- Pair of Jewels! - Four Joys!

Two Together...

Two Together!

- Pair of Jewels! - Four Joys!

Four Joys. Aiya!

I'm sorry. I'm out of the game.

It's nothing.

Drink the aged wine.

- What happened? - It's nothing.

Sounds like a total mess out there. It's gotta be something.

Drink, drink.

They were arresting gamblers in the alley out front.

It's nothing to worry about. Just checking on gambling.

Just checking on gambling in the alley.

It's nothing. Don't worry. Drink, drink.

- Someone fell to death in the alley! - What happened?

Someone fell to death in the alley!

What? Fell to death?

Let's go and see. No wonder it's so lively!

Fell to death! Let's go see.

Someone fell to death. Let's go see.

Master Wang, slow down!

You scared me. You're lucky you didn't fall!

Where's the Maestro?

She's probably downstairs.

Master Wang, maybe you've had too much to drink

Ah-liang, bring a towel.

Master Wang..

Master Wang..

Master Wang is drowsy.

Master Wang, what are you doing?

Master Wang.!

Master Wang., don't be angry!

Whatever it is, let's talk it over calmly!

Master Wang., don't be angry!

Take care of these matters for me.

What is it now?

Laelia, my congratulations!

Now is indeed a good time for you to marry Maestro Laelia.

But you won't be calling on Crimson any more?

It seems not altogether right.

How is it wrong?

Crimson keeps only you as her caller.

If you stop calling, she'll have no one.

Business accounts were settled triannually, during the Double-Fifth, Mid-Autumn, and Spring festivals. And now it's the holidays.

Business accounts were settled triannually, during the Double-Fifth, Mid-Autumn, and Spring festivals.

Business accounts were settled triannually, during the Double-Fifth, Mid-Autumn, and Spring festivals. She won't be able to settle most of her expenses.

Business accounts were settled triannually, during the Double-Fifth, Mid-Autumn, and Spring festivals.

Business accounts were settled triannually, during the Double-Fifth, Mid-Autumn, and Spring festivals. She has her parents and brothers to provide for.

She has her parents and brothers to provide for.

What is she to do?

With all that pressing down, it'll be the death of her.

Even if Crimson's life is not an urgent matter...

A proverb. Applied here to mean that many matters are caused by oneself. "Many is the aftermath of one."

From start to finish, all of it was on account of you

We dallied for our delight.

But you think these wrongdoings count for nothing?

So you're on their side.

It's a real wonder you say that!

Why should I side with them?

If not, why ask me to call on her?

When you first started calling on her...

I said there's nothing of interest in it.

You didn't believe me when I said

you'd get tangled up with her.

Now you're mad at me.

And even say I'm siding with them!

There's nothing more to say.

So you're still asking me to call on her?

I'm not asking you to continue calling on her.

Just put in an appearance!

What for?

I'm suggesting it for your sake

In case something happens, if you show up there,

they'll be more... charitable towards you.

You also can get a good look at how things stand.

Having called on her for four, five years...

you must've spent ten thousand foreign dollars.

It's not worth it to short-shrift her.

If you let her pay her bills, she can make it through the holidays.

Whether you call on her after that is entirely up to you.

Right?

Master Wang. and Master Hong are here!

I was wrong to think Master Wang wasn't coming any more!

Our Maestro hasn't fretted to death. She's doing quite well.

Master Hong.

Our servants asked me...

and said this and that about Master Wang and our Maestro.

I told them to stop saying such nonsense.

Master Wang just said those things in anger.

Deep down, he knows full well.

Xi-zi: "troupe tramp" is a derogatory term for an opera performer There's no way he meant she hooked up with a troupe tramp!

Hooked up or not is unimportant. Let's say no more of it.

Crimson.

When Master Wang. doesn't come, you cry out day and night.

Now that he's here, you don't say a single word.

Ah-liang, wring some towels and pour some water.

Ah-zhu, wring out a towel.

Coming.

Maestro, shall I clear the table?

Goldie, clear the table.

In the four, five years I've known you, I've never seen you so angry.

Only vogue officials with big earnings can afford to carry on with troupe tramps.

Do I look like I'm taking in big earnings'?

I'm not a child.

How could I make a living carrying on with a troupe tramp?

You wrongly accuse me.

Even if you wrong me to death...

even in death,

my eyes won't shut with this grievance.

If you say you didn't, then you didn't. Whatever, it doesn't matter.

This body of mine was given to me by my parents.

Except for that, everything else I have was provided by you.

Even if you broke it all, it wouldn't matter.

If you toss me away...

there's no way left for me except death.

One blue filigree crystal pendant.

One pair of triangle earrings with colored clouds and fired pearls.

One pair of pearl earrings with blue plumes and chrysanthemums.

One pair of earrings with gold-inlaid green jade.

One Five-Fortunes, green jade bracelet.

One brocade cape embroidered with a hundred hues.

One damask skirt embroidered with a hundred hues.

One black silk shoulder drape embroidered with colored clouds.

Madam.

Two trunks of large furs, two trunks of medium furs,

and two trunks of small furs.

Ten trunks of lined and unlined cotton clothes. it's all accounted for.

Phoenix, it's been a long morning for you.

- Mom, sit with me. - Okay.

With my debt cleared, I'm leaving this house. But, of kin, I only have you mom.

Wherever I go, I'll always be a daughter raised by Ms. Huang

If mom gets on well, I'm cast in a good light. If not, it reflects badly on me.

Not to worry.

Mom gets on well in every which way.

In doing business, you know how to please.

In running a household, you're good at putting it in order.

But in fooling around, you've rather gotten the short end of it.

I look on it unfavorably so I bring it up with you.

I won't be able to again after today.

You need to have a plan for yourself You're already over fifty.

Don't make yourself the laughingstock of the young.

For 1,000 you can buy a new girl for the house.

You already have clothing and accessories for her.

And have enough for her expenses.

Two years from now, Gold Phoenix will comb her hair as a woman grown

and become a vogue official.

Even if she isn't vogue, she'll be as I am,

and can continue in my stead. It'll work out nicely.

Right, right.

Pearl Phoenix doesn't bring in revenue.

If anyone wants her, let her go.

But Gold Phoenix will surely become first or second tier.

Mom, heed my advice, and you'll do well.

That line was aptly said, and absolutely right.

And the rest of it wasn't?

Oh it's not that!

At my age...

I can tell the difference between good advice and bad.

They should be here any moment. I'll go down and see.

Master Luo, make yourself comfortable.

See that? The more you reprimand her, the more shameless she gets.

I've already said my piece and I'll leave it at that.

If she insists on eating the bitter fruit of her ways, let her then

It's not easy being a procuress.

Cowed and cut down by you, she couldn't say a thing.

How can you say that?

There's not one good person among those seven sisters.

If I made the slighted mistake, she'd beat me in a mad rage.

I doubt it.

If you don't believe me, just look at Zhu Jinhua.

I've met three of those sisters.

Those three are far better than my mom.

At most, it'd be two beatings.

But for a girl at my mom's,

you can neither take your life nor take living on.

Never mind my mom. There's not a procuress in Shanghai who's a good person.

A good person couldn't stomach this rice bowl.

Madam, I'll read it to you.

Zhang Cuifen's professional name is Huang Cuifeng (Phoenix), which uses her madam's surname. I draw up this deed to clear the bondage debt of Zhang Cuifen.

The bondage debt totaling 1,200 taels of silver

is hereby paid off in full, settling accounts on both sides without dispute."

- Is that right'? - Yes!

Now, today is... the 6th day of the 2nd month.

On the 6th day of the 2nd month in the year jashen (1884).

- Please give your thumbprint. - Okay.

Allow me.

Here'?

Take a look.

- That's right. Madam, you too. - Where?

- Right here. - Here you go.

- Phoenix. - Yes?

The deed and receipt are done.

Have a look to check for any problems.

Master Luo, at your leisure.

Look it over with me to see that it's right.

The calligraphy is a mess!

It follows a standard template for clearing bondage debts.

Nothing is amiss.

- It's all right'? - Yes.

"Muddy-river Dragon." Is that someone's style name?

He's one of mom's lovers.

Don't be fooled by his politeness. He's incredibly sly.

He recently tried to pull off some ploy.

Think I'd fall for it?

Dream on!

Double check it for me.

Bravo! Bravo!

Now that's a fine voice! Indeed, a fine voice.

Cmon, everyone drink up!

Today, Master Wang. got promoted! He's going to Guangdong province.

Let's all drink to Master Wang!

Master Wang., congratulations!

May every step take you ever higher!

Bottoms up. Everyone, bottoms up!

Ah, that's good.

Gentleman, there's a get together tomorrow. Honor us with your presence.

Yes! We'll certainly be there.

It'll be at Qingyun Ward.

Your beau... is her name Cassia Ma?

We don't who she is. Her name is Cassia Ma?

I've only just started calling on her.

Originally, she was booked by a friend, who introduced us.

Then I started calling on her.

Called her out to play!

Come, let's play a hand.

There are no set limits tonight! Everyone must drink!

Master Zhou, you start this round

At long last, I get to play you!

Two Together...

- Full Family Fortune! - Five Laureates!

Full Family Fortune! Drink up!

Quick Gains!

- Two Together! - Two Together!

We played the same hand.

Both of you drink up!

- How's that? - A cup a person.

You and I make "Two Together."

One cup each! Right on!

Way too much wine is going around tonight!

Having a good time?

- Master Wang., having a good time? - Yes.

Then we're good!

As long as Master Wang's happy everyone's happy! Right?

Master Luo is spot on.

He's off to Guangzhou province.

Risen high in the ranks!

That's an incredibly important post!

Where's the aged wine? You gotta pour it!

Got to pour it!

Good food, good wine, and with the right company.

Let's all toast Master Wang!

Together, altogether! Come on.

Master Wang., may the wind be at your back!

When you can, come see your old friends in Shanghai!

Don't forget us, your old friends!

Don't forget! You must visit!

Master Wang..

Thank you for introducing me to this job.

It was nothing.

Master Wang, did you get opium resin in your mouth?

Have some tea.

Rinse out your mouth.

Wring out a hot towel.

On the way.

Master Wang, have some Cloud Flakes to get rid of the bitter taste.

Clear out the pipe.

Master Wang., a washcloth.

Master Wang., Crimson has only one woman tending on her?

Goldie has left. Elder sister too has been relieved of her services

I heard she's moving to a smaller place.

Is that true?

I don't know.

Have a smoke.

Master Wang went home?

He went home.

Master Hong.

Why is Master Wang so downcast?

One can't blame Master Wang. for being so.

He gets to return to Guangdong, and has been promoted too.

He should be in high spirits, instead of so downcast.

At first, Master Wang. liked Crimson.

Crimson was no good.

So he went and married Laelia.

But Laelia was no good either.

So he went back to calling on Crimson.

He continued to call on her. All the while, with an unhappy heart.

In what way was Laelia no good?

No good was just what it was. Why go into the dirty details?

Two days ago, I heard that Master Wang. hit Laelia.

Did that happen?

It was a close call!

He gave her a beating, and broke with her.

After that, Laelia swallowed raw opium

Several of us friends finally talked her out of it.

His nephew was kicked out of the house, and that finally brought an end to it.

Laelia really made a poor showing.

If Crimson knew about it, she'd sure have a good laugh!

A booking for the Junior Maestro!

The Junior Maestro has a booking. I have to get back to work.

Master Hong, make yourself comfortable.

This Laelia did quite well marrying Master Wang.

Why go have an affair with his nephew?

It's too bad Master Wang. is leaving.

Otherwise, he could've started calling on Jade.

Oh, that reminds me...

Mom has a matter to discuss with you. I forgot to mention it.

What is it?

Ever since the Shanjia Garden booking, Jade refused to receive patrons.

Mom and I exhorted her many times.

She says Young Master Zhu promises to marry her.

I couldn't bear to disillusion her

Ask him his intentions. If he wants to marry, let them.

If not, he must let her know so she's not kept from her work

I hadn't pegged Jade as such a high climber!

Those two are totally dreaming.

Never mind he's engaged already.

Even if he weren't,

she could only be his concubine, not his principal wife.

Where's this principal wife? Bring her out so we can see!

Why do so many Maestros want to be principal wife?

First, there was Fragrance, who wanted it till the day she died.

Then there was Zhao Erbao, who also failed.

Now there's this would-be wife, which makes three of them!

Stop prattling on.

Have you already forgotten the incident over the silver hookah?

You made a big stink about it with Jade, and came out the worse for it.

Young Master Zhu, get some rest.

Before turning in, I want to have a word with you.

What is it?

It was the 7th month, at Yili Garden,

we were talking, just like now.

Do you still remember?

I remember.

Tell me what you remember.

Tell me.

We made a vow, to be man and wife.

We said we'd die together if we couldn't live together.

I knew you wouldn't forget.

I have a nice treat for you.

What is it?

You drink a cup, I'll join with you a cup.

Drink it.

- What's in this wine? - Drink it!

Somebody help!

Somebody help! Come quick!

Come quick!

What are you hollering about? What's going on?

Slow down! What is it?

What's wrong?

Jade, what's the matter?

You look ghastly. Did you fight?

- What happened? - I don't know!

Did you drink it'?

What did you take? Opium? Qiaojian, come help!

You heartless, cold-blooded thug!

You said we'd die together! Now you won't act on it.

I'll haul you to meet the King of Hell!

What are you doing?!

Did you drink any of it? Did you have any?

Flush your mouth out! Quick, flush your mouth out!

You're young and naive. You can't take to heart what patrons say.

It's all empty talk! Rinse your mouth!

If he weren't engaged, he'd still never take you as principal wife

The heck with principal wife!

He said we'd die together!

It wasn't me!

My uncle arranged the engagement!

I had no say in it!

You pig! You knew about the engagement all along!

- Why won't you die with me? - Which jar is it?

Which jar is it'? Which jar is it'? Hurry!

Quick, drink it!

Why act like this? Talk it over calmly.

What's this all about?

Take this!

Quick, drink it down!

Hurry! Drink it!

Set it down! I'll drink it myself.

If he won't drink it,

why should I die before his eyes?

I'll die only after he dies!

Stop this talk about dying!

Take the medicine first!

Have her take it.

You alright?

- Uncle. - Shuren. Have a seat.

I told her that

the engagement was decided by Master Zhu. The Young Master is not to blame.

I also said you're still marrying the same person. Principal wife or not doesn't change that.

I'll be the matchmaker. A marriage with Young Master Zhu is a fine prospect.

But I couldn't get through to Jade.

I don't know what she's turning over in her mind.

Or who put it in her head.

When did Jade ever heed what others say?

If she paid us any mind, she'd be working, not making waves.

I think Jade's motivation was...

half aimed at Young Master Zhu, and half aimed at Jewel.

That's right on the mark. That makes sense.

Shuren, didn't you once say...

whatever Jade wants, you'd give it her? Isn't that so?

Yes, yes.

Let me help you resolve this dilemma.

At most, it'll cost 10,000.

At minimum, 8,000.

- Are you willing? - I'm willing.

Alright then.

Just sit tight.

I'll think of a way to settle this matter.

How, Uncle?

You needn't ask how.

Uncle will explain once it's done.

Don't worry, okay?

Pearl,

put this across to Jade:

5,000 for her bondage debt, and 5,000 for her dowry.

That may be acceptable to everyone. What do you think?

That sounds good, but it might not work.

It surely will. The Zhu family won't mind the cost.

Young Master Zhu, are you staying for dinner?

Ah-zhu, bring some hors d'oeuvres.

- Young Master and I will take our meal inside. - Yes, I'll go prepare it.

Put it to her. See how she takes it.

- Okay, I'll talk to Jade. - Yes. Do so.

What did she say?

I put your proposal to her.

5,000 for her bondage debt, 5,000 for her dowry.

Jade's worry is that

if it doesn't work out, it'll be further cause for ridicule.

If that fails, it's okay. I'll have Young Master Zhu enjoin her.

In that case, there shouldn't be a problem.

If you can't get through to her, then I'll talk to her.

Shuren, it's been worked out.

It's like this.

5,000 for her bondage debt, and 5,000 for her dowry.

Jade will be able to save face.

Your side just spends some money.

And will be free from complicated entanglements. What do you say?

Who will she marry, Uncle?

Better not to ask. Arranging a marriage is an extremely difficult matter.

Don't worry. I'll take care of it for you.

Uncle. Uncle! Who will she marry?

As I said before, arranging a marriage is an extremely difficult matter.

Just getting things to settle down is no easy matter.

Don't worry.

Translated and annotated by Mastameta for AsianDVDClub