Original subtitles

[wind blowing]

YIN YANG MASTERS USE THE DOCTRINE OF FIVE ELEMENTS

TO DISTINGUISH MEN FROM MONSTERS.

RIGHTEOUS MEN GATHER IN THE YIN YANG BUREAU

TO TRAIN AND CAPTURE EVIL SPIRITS.

[bell dinging]

[bell dinging continues]

[tense music playing]

Qingming.

What have you done?

[Qingming] Brother Cimu…

was killed.

Cimu.

What did you do to him?

Nothing. A demon escaped the Sealing Chamber.

And tried to steal the Scale Stone.

[elder] There are dismembered bodies.

So tell me, how was it that you escaped untouched?

I didn't do it.

-Please, I swear. -One cannot change one nature.

The only true demon here is you.

[Qingming gasps]

It wasn't me!

[all grunt]

[panting]

Baini.

What happened here?

Qingming killed Cimu and tried to take the Scale Stone.

But that's…

-impossible. -He has already fled out of guilt.

If you can't tell right from wrong, how will you expect to be chief?

[ominous music plays]

[Baini] The bellflower bracelet.

SEVEN YEARS LATER

PINGJING CITY

[eerie music plays]

[Qingming] When Pangu separated heaven and Earth,

humans and demons initially live together in harmony.

But then an evil demon named Xiangliu,

proclaimed himself to be the Demon Emperor.

The nine-headed serpent seduced the demons

into wreaking havoc upon the mortal world.

Fortunately, a group of Yin Yang Masters fought back.

They forged a sacred weapon,

the Tushan Sword.

With it, they slay Xiangliu

and banished all demons.

Humans and demons were forever separated.

Humans inhabited cities,

while demons strolled in the Monster Realm.

Both sides kept to themselves.

Whenever a demon crosses the border,

a Yin Yang master is treated as a part of the Demon Emperor's army.

It's captured and imprisoned in the Sealing Chamber.

[epic music plays]

[guard] Move aside. Move aside.

The Capital Guards are on a mission

to escort the imperial tribute out of the city.

[epic music soaring]

Move aside. The Capital Guards are on a mission

to escort the imperial tribute out of the city.

MONSTER REALM IS DANGEROUS

LEAVE AT YOUR OWN RISK

[epic music continues]

[eerie music plays]

[guard 1] It is the time for ghost festival,

yet the Captain volunteered us to escort the offerings out of the city.

This is just asking for trouble.

[guard 2] Agreed. Why they send us to do this?

This is supposed to be the Bureau's job.

[animal whines]

[guard gasping]

[horse snorts]

[horses neighing]

Something in the woods.

Oh?

[gasps softly]

[ominous music plays]

-[grunts] -[horse neighs]

[captain] Who's out there?

[hissing]

[horse neighs]

[grunts]

[all clamoring]

[captain] Go! [pants]

-[captain grunts] -[horse neighs]

[captain groans]

[snarls]

[grunts]

[grumbles]

[exhales]

Whoever…

is foolish enough to challenge us,

this is what will happen to you.

[grunts]

[muttering]

[eerie music plays]

[snarling]

[gasps]

[whines]

[grunts]

[groans]

[exhales]

[whoops]

Oh…

[whimpers]

[captain grunts]

Sword!

Give me the sword!

[guards clamoring]

[guard groaning]

[cries]

[captain grunts]

[grumbling]

[intense music playing]

[wailing]

[snorting]

[wailing]

[snarls]

[growls]

[captain grunts]

-[grunts] -[monster squeaks]

[shrieks]

[captain exhales]

-[shatters] -[screams]

[groans]

[grumbles]

[grunts]

[Qingming] Stealing the imperial tribute? Outrageous.

[noble music plays]

[captain] You.

Huh?

[Qingming] I was just passing through. Figured I'd help you.

Good sir.

You're welcome.

-Ah… -[captain] Hey!

Stop that.

I said stop!

I'm helping you exorcise demons but don't worry,

no need for a thank you gift.

-I'll just help myself. -Who said anything about a thank you gift?

Huh?

Well?

-[Qingming] Good sir. -Huh?

You're in the wrong here.

When people barely survived the demon attack,

they'd happily show their gratitude. But I make the effort to help you…

and you don't appreciate it.

It's our duty to escort the imperial tribute.

So hand it over.

It's obvious that those three demons knew you.

My guess…

is you're a demon in human guise too.

Sir.

Your suspicion is so small-minded.

-Hmm. -[squeaks softly]

-[man grunts] -[monsters squeak]

Small-minded?

You're coming with me.

[grunts]

If you intend to keep this up, you will fall.

I assure you.

You're actually with the Bureau.

-How dare you knowingly break the law? -Purity from within and without.

[captain groans]

[grunts]

Hmm.

[groans]

[grumbles]

Thieving pig.

[grunts]

[whistles]

[light music plays]

[both guards gasp]

Oh. Oh…

[monsters squeaking]

[monster giggles]

[captain] What's your rank in the Bureau?

[groans] I dare you to tell me your name.

Okay.

Qingming.

[captain panting]

Qingming? [grunts]

I'll remember you. [grumbles]

I can't watch you fall anymore.

So for now…

I think we're done here.

[monsters squeaking]

[harmonious music plays]

-[monster 1 squeaks] -[monster 2 snorts]

[monster 3 squeaks]

[captain grunts]

-[monster roars] -[groans, grunts]

[captain] What happened to all the Capital Guards?

[groans]

[gasps]

[sighs]

[foreboding music plays]

[frog croaks]

[snoring]

[peaceful music playing]

[growls]

[monster squeaking]

[monster gibbering]

[squeaks]

YIN YANG BUREAU

[ominous music plays]

YIN YANG BUREAU

[gasps]

[people chanting]

SCALE STONE WARD

Something is wrong in the Sealing Chamber.

[chanting continues]

[tense music playing]

SUBDUING CELL

[man 1 grunts]

[man 2 groans]

[man 3] Move.

[man 4 gasps]

Return to purity, seal.

-Demons have broken in. -Chief.

Who's guarding the Scale Stone?

[both] Sunless day, moonless night.

[indistinct chatter]

Return to purity from within and without. This seal must be…

[growling]

[suspenseful music plays]

[electricity crackling]

The northeastern road, seven miles away.

[ferrets snarling]

[squeaks]

[roars]

The Scale Stone.

[ferrets squeak]

[chittering]

[gasps]

Don't touch the Scale Stone.

[guard 1] You're not going anywhere.

[demon groans]

[demon snarls]

[demon roars]

[demon screams]

[guard grunts]

[ferrets gibbering]

[ferret squeaks]

[ferret chitters]

[ferret squeaks]

[grunts]

-[screams] -[ferrets squeal]

-Rat demon. -[squeaks]

Put it down.

Stop!

[grunting]

[ferret squeaks]

[groans]

My failure must be punished.

We took the Scale Stone from the Bureau,

but then we ran into three rat demons.

I don't know who gave them the order,

but someone must have told them to intercept the Scale Stone.

You said three rat demons?

They must be Qingming's ferrets.

What were they doing there?

[breathes heavily]

Your job was very easy.

How did you ruin it?

[gasping]

The Raven Hound twins.

Monster Realm's greatest warriors.

They said you could never fail.

Turns out…

they were wrong.

But then again, the Scale Stone has been removed.

I suppose the Raven Hounds have at least achieved something.

You can die in peace now.

[woman] If you think that you can make up for things

just because you got back in tribute,

Master took you in because he expects great things from you

but if you slack off, you will be punished.

Practicing military maneuvers in martial arts

to prepare you from whatever is upon.

[drumming echoes]

High.

[drum banging continues]

[woman] Forward thrust.

Side thrust.

Side swipe.

Lift your arms.

-Harder. What are you aiming at? -[groans]

[monster grunts]

[woman] Remember, Master has graciously taken you in

to be the Spirit Guardians.

If not for him, you will all be out now wandering alone, bullied.

-Shh. -[woman] Don't take this lightly.

Work hard.

-[ferrets squeaking] -[woman indistinctly chatters]

[sighs]

[ferret gibbers]

What are you doing?

[squeaks]

What's the matter?

[both gibber]

-[Qingming] Stop. -[both gasp]

[both chittering]

[chittering continues]

-[Qingming] Fell down. Who fell down? -[ferrets gibber]

-He swallowed something. -[chokes]

[groans]

-[gibbers] -[Qingming] And he got into a fight.

[both jabber]

[gasps]

[roars]

[exclaims]

[Xiangliu growls]

[Xiangliu] We meet again, Qingming.

The Scale Stone has finally been removed from the control of the Bureau.

You will help me return to the mortal world.

That is your destiny.

Do you understand, Qingming?

[gasps]

[exhales]

-[Qingming panting] -[ferret grumbling]

I summon the light of Purple Star for protection.

Has something happened here?

Look after the ferret.

Something might have happened to Scale Stone. I'm going to Monster Realm.

[ferret gibbers]

[people chanting]

[man] Removing the Scale Stone from the Bureau

has wreaked havoc on the Sealing Chamber.

The Defenders have tried to contain it with sigils all night to no avail.

I refuse to believe it was merely a coincidence,

that those who stole the Scale Stone were all Qingming's cohorts.

It is obvious

that he came back to finish what he failed to do seven years ago.

Losing the Scale Stone is disastrous for the Bureau.

It's hard to fend off a thief who lives among us.

If Qingming didn't betray the Bureau,

how did the Raven Hounds access the restricted area?

How could they have known the spells to destroy the golden pagoda?

As soon as the Scale Stone was stolen,

the three rat demons were there.

The Bureau should have apprehended that traitor long ago,

had the Chief been able to make a decision…

Xican.

…that demon would be roaming wherever he pleases.

Elder, you don't need to worry about my past with Qingming.

-I didn't want you to forget. -Elder Xican.

Choose your words carefully.

I have my own thoughts on the Scale Stone issue.

[Xican grumbles]

[Xican] A hundred years ago,

helpless elders at the Bureau took it upon themselves

and sacrificed their lives

to finally slay the demon, Xiangliu.

But the evil serpent had nine heads

and its power was immense.

And although its body was destroyed,

its spirit could never be eradicated.

They could only reduce it into the Scale Stone

which was then sealed inside this pagoda.

And so…

defending the golden pagoda and safeguarding the Scale Stone

are the two greatest duties of the Yin Yang Bureau.

One day, it will be your turn.

And you can never relax in your duties.

Cimu.

Lead the chant to ward off the evil spirits.

Yes, Elder.

[Cimu] Black Tortoise protects the north, Vermilion Bird guards the south.

[all] Black Tortoise protects the north Vermilion Bird guards the south.

Return to the unity, purity from within and without.

[all] Return to the unity, purity from within and without.

[Xiangliu] Qingming.

Don't chant with them.

You're a demon.

You and I are connected by blood.

Release me

and join me.

-No! -[all chanting]

Qingming.

-[Xiangliu] Qingming. -[boy] Are you out of your mind?

This is a Scale Stone Ward.

[boy 2] He's half-man, half-demon. Demonic blood flows to his genes.

Xiangliu has been calling out to you.

Don't say that. Qingming will be a Yin Yang Master.

He was abandoned as a baby, we barely know anything about him.

The Bureau only took him in

-to contain his equal-- -Shut up. That's an order.

[boy] You're not chief yet, Baini.

-We're not listening-- -Shut up.

And sit down.

[all] Yes, Brother Cimu.

[Cimu] Qingming.

-Qingming. -[screams]

[grunts]

[all gasp]

[chanting]

[Baini] Qingming.

All of this…

stays between us.

[all] Yes, Brother Cimu.

[Cimu] Man or demon, you must learn to gain control.

Otherwise,

you'll destroy yourself.

[tranquil music plays]

TOMB OF CIMU

Brother Cimu, I will not let your death be for nothing.

Qingming has left us no choice by doing this.

We brought shame on the Bureau

by failing to apprehend that traitor for the past seven years.

Even if we have to scour the entire Monster Realm,

we will bring him to justice.

[dramatic music plays]

COURT OF THE GUARDS

[man] Order?

What order?

I must go to the Yin Yang Bureau,

to arrest Qingming and reclaim the tribute.

[metal clatters]

Something serious happened at the Bureau last night.

They can barely deal with it.

Why would they care about the imperial tribute?

I hereby pronounce

Seventh-Rank secondary captain Yuan Boya

is suspended effective immediately.

He has three days to repay the lost tribute

or face imprisonment and confiscation of family assets.

[grunts]

You spend every day thinking about nothing but your ambition.

But in the end, you're just a nobody who doesn't know his limits.

I'm going to capture that demon now. And then you'll see who's the nobody.

[exhales]

[man] Sir, I'll tell you the truth.

I used to get my demonic goods from Yanyan Le.

[Boya] Yan what? Come again?

[man] He's a mystical master,

-specializes in demons. -[Boya] in demons?

[indistinct chatter]

His shop is over there. If you wanna know about Qingming, ask him.

[woman] Quit wasting your breath.

Tell me now.

[Yanyan Le] There is no path to the Monster Realm.

-[woman] Are you going to tell me or not? -[Yanyan Le screaming]

[Yanyan Le stuttering]

-[bell dings] -[woman] Shh.

Whoever is in there,

this is Captain Yuan Boya.

I'm here to investigate a crime.

[woman] Where are your manners?

The incense outside is still burning, it means he's with a client.

You can't just barge in.

Are you the expert Yan Lele?

I'm looking for somebody.

Name is Qingming.

Do you know where he lives?

[woman] You're asking about the Yin Yang Master, Qingming.

That's him. I fought him yesterday.

But he fled in defeat.

-I'm bringing him into justice. -[woman] You're full of shit.

Who's hiding back there?

Get out here and talk-- [grunts]

How dare you assault an imperial officer!

I'm going to charge you for this!

-[spits] -[groans]

You can't even capture me, why would Qingming run from you?

Are you Yan Lele?

I'm the only one who gets to talk here.

-I'm looking for Yan Lele. You better-- -Get in with the talking.

[groans]

And his name is Yanyan Le, moron.

[Boya] What?

Isn't that exactly what I just said to you?

You're not very smart as a Capital Guard.

Yes, I still need your help then.

So talking or beating?

-[Yanyan Le] No. No. -I have my umbrella.

[whimpers]

It's right behind me,

inside that pile of hides.

Why didn't you tell me sooner? It would have saved us a lot of trouble.

[Yanyan Le groans]

Not just anyone can get in to the Monster Realm.

-A map won't be much help for-- -Then how does Qingming go back and forth?

Qingming is half-demon.

-He is? -He also has the sigils from the Bureau.

Sigils?

I have a sigil.

You do?

-Where is it? -[grunting]

Untie me.

[spits] Untie me.

My young captain,

I can tell you're someone special and not just some ordinary nobody.

Get back.

-This it? -[grunts]

[grumbles]

[woman] Sir.

I swear on my name, Shenle, I will help you get into the Monster Realm

and arrest Qingming.

If we go to the Monster Realm…

we'll find Qingming?

-Uh-huh. -[exhales]

[tense music plays]

[Boya] I could tell Qingming wasn't a decent person.

But half-man, half-demon?

[Shenle] You know nothing.

A man of Qingming's power comes along once in a century.

-He's the only one who can control demons. -[Boya] Fine.

If he won't be a human, let him be a demon.

Either way, I'm taking him down.

Hey, check your map.

How far away are we?

How will I check when I'm all tied up?

[groans] You're tied up for your own protection.

[epic music plays]

[Shenle] The map says to go about 35 miles after passing the Temple of Earth

then we'll see the stone statue at the entrance to the Monster Realm.

CRUMBLING CLIFF

[Shenle] And voilà, here we are.

[Boya] Well…

we definitely found the entrance.

Only problem is…

How are we supposed to go through it?

[Shenle] Hey.

Give me the sigil.

Give it. Come on.

A halo of golden light engulfs my body.

I fly like a cloud through the three realms world.

I traveled thousands of miles like the shadow that follows me.

[Shenle grunts]

A halo of golden light engulfs my body.

I fly like a cloud through the three realms world.

I traveled thousands of miles like the shadow that follows me.

[tense music plays]

[grunts]

[gasps]

W-what'd you do?

What… You destroyed the sigil. You…

-You're a swindler. You're under arrest. -You're the swindler.

Where's your badge? Can you prove you're a Guard?

[Boya] Behave yourself.

[Shenle] Let go of me.

[Shenle] Huh?

[exhales]

[gasps]

[foreboding music plays]

[wind gusting]

[both pant]

[ominous music plays]

[loud thud]

[intricate orchestral music plays]

There's the path. You see?

It takes time for the spell to work.

If you're going to be stupid, just keep your mouth shut.

What are you doing? We have to go now or we won't make it.

What?

[Boya] You were just as surprised as I was!

[dreamy music plays]

[indistinct chatter]

What's that?

Plum-infused water. To mask our human scent.

Why didn't you do that before?

-I was so excited, I forgot about it. -Come on, focus.

[groans]

[Shenle] This is the place.

The Red Tower.

The Port Master handles all the affairs in the Monster Realm. He lives here.

Qingming has been doing business with him.

[indistinct chatter]

[epic music playing]

Fish-eye earrings.

How much?

Can you focus on the job, please?

-How does it look? -It's horrendous.

[exhales]

Qingming won't show up until the time is right.

If you're worried, you can stick out by the bridge.

[crowd cheering]

[indistinct chatter]

[squeals]

[grunting]

[slurping]

[monster growls]

[Shenle] Yuan Boya.

Try this.

Mmm.

It's not bad.

What is it?

[monster gibbers]

[heaves]

[laughs] Hey.

[Boya retches]

-Are you okay? -[groans]

Go away. [grumbles]

-[Shenle] Come on. -[whimpers]

Try on this belt.

-[Boya] What is this? -[Shenle] It's a gift.

It looks good on you.

I like it.

We're here on a dangerous mission

and you're acting like--

-[Shenle] Master. -Oh…

[Shenle] Master! [pants]

Demon thief?

Master.

Master, I've finally found you.

Uh, here's a gift to introduce myself. Please accept it.

I finally caught up with you, you coward. [pants]

-Ow. Ah… -Back off.

Leave him alone.

Master, this guardsman wants to hurt you.

I came to warn you. So don't forget it.

I know what you are, freak. And I, Yuan Boya, am taking you in.

Whoa.

What was your name again?

-[Shenle grunts] -Yuan Boya.

Seventh-Rank secondary captain of the Capital Guards.

-Is this how you write? -[Boya] Let go of me.

[Shenle grunts]

Oh… Oh.

[gasps]

[blowing]

Oh, using evil magic… [groans]

-Spirit Guardian sigil. -What sigil?

Spirit Guardian.

What is that? [groans]

Oh, hey…

-Cast the Spirit Guardian sigil on me too. -[grunts]

-Cast it on me too, Master. -Why can't I control my arms and legs?

-I'm willing to give my life to you. -Remove the spell now.

[grunting]

Whoa.

Oh.

-[groans] -Hey. What are you doing?

-[Shenle] Hey, master. -[Boya] Demon thief!

Master! Master!

[both grunt]

-[Boya] Get back here, freak. -Let go, Yuan Boya!

[crowd cheering]

[woman giggles]

[woman] Hey, that was so fun.

[indistinct chatter]

[crowd cheering]

[mysterious music playing]

Mm.

Mm.

[grumbles]

[sighs]

What an honored guest.

Welcome. Welcome.

It hasn't been long

but feels like forever.

Your familiars sent me two carts of offering yesterday.

Today, you're here in person.

I wonder

if you brought me even more treasure.

Actually…

I need something from you.

Giving and taking brings opportunities.

-So, what do you want? -The Tushan Sword.

[gasps]

[coughs] That name is taboo in the Monster Realm.

Why would I have it?

-Think carefully before you answer. -[gasps] My precious gems!

After you pledged your allegiance to the Bureau,

you borrowed the sword to dominate the Monster Realm

but you never returned it.

-[plays note] -[Qingming] Still wanna play dumb?

[laughs]

Such a trivial matter. Not sure why you'd even remember it.

[gulps]

The Tushan Sword slayed the Demon Emperor Xiangliu a hundred years ago

and the Monster Realm still hasn't recovered.

Once the Demon Emperor was gone,

nobody cared much about the sword anymore.

So, what do you want with it now?

[Qingming] The Emperor's body perished but its spirit lives on.

It never hurts to be prepared for the worst.

But I can't afford to offend the Bureau.

Hey. Stop.

You can't bully me.

You're in the Monster Realm, this is my turf.

I am the boss here and what I say…

No!

Be reasonable.

[Port Master laughs]

Fine, let's negotiate but you have to make me a decent offer.

How about two live humans?

Oh.

"Live humans"?

So does this offer sound better now?

[crowd cheering]

Kill that human, don't stand there!

[Shenle] Master!

-[Shenle] Master! -[man] Yeah!

[Shenle] Master, look here!

[Shenle] Master!

[men grunting]

[crowd cheering]

[Boya groans]

Hey. [screams]

[grunts]

[women giggle]

[indistinct chatter]

[percussive music playing]

[grunts]

[Shenle] Yuan Boya, watch out!

Let her go! Right now!

Don't worry about me!

[groans]

My dear demons and thieves,

prepare to witness a fight that lights up which you've never seen.

Man versus demon in a battle to the death!

Place your bets now for this once-in-a-lifetime showdown!

[announcer] Hey, captain or whatever.

You better give it your best.

Otherwise, your little pal dies.

-[door opening] -[announcer cackling]

[announcer] May I present to you the Red Ghost Demon.

Born and raised in this very arena,

he has never lost a fight.

Two of you enter

but only one of you will live!

[growls]

[Red Ghost snarls]

-[gibbers] -[announcer] Yes!

-[Red Ghost hums] -[crowd cheering]

[percussive music continues]

[indistinct chatter]

[crowd cheering]

[gong echoes]

[gibbers]

[chuckles]

[Boya groans]

[Red Ghost screaming]

[chuckles]

-[both grunt] -[announcer] Yes!

-[crowd laughing] -[Red Ghost gibbers]

[Boya grunts]

[Boya grumbling]

-[grunts] -[crowd cheering]

[both groan]

[both scream]

-[Boya grunts] -[Red Ghost laughs]

[both grumbling]

[exhales]

[Boya and Red Ghost grunting]

-[bell dings] -[announcer] Get up!

[woman] Stop!

[both grunt]

[Boya pants]

[grumbles]

[bones cracking]

[Boya pants]

-[grunts] -[announcer] This is it!

-[Boya groans] -[Red Ghost growls]

[growling intensifies]

[announcer] The more you hurt the Red Ghost, the stronger he gets.

This is what he's truly capable of.

This is why he's remained unbeaten in the ring.

-[Red Ghost growls] -[Boya grunts]

[intense music plays]

[roars]

[Boya grumbling]

[both grunt]

[low growl]

-[farting] -[Boya grunts]

[gasps]

[both groan]

[screaming]

[Boya grunts]

[Boya groaning]

[grunts]

[crowd cheering]

[Boya groans]

[festive music plays]

[crowd cheering]

[gibbers]

[ominous music plays]

[bell dings]

[Port Master] The Tushan Sword's manna is too great.

You have to go alone.

[tinkling]

[Qingming chanting]

[man] You got here fast.

Who knew the Bureau was so capable?

[exhales]

[both grunt]

The light shines a thousand miles. Connect.

[monster grunting]

-[Red Ghost growling] -[Boya groans]

[gasps]

[Red Ghost gibbers]

[crowd cheering]

Master's sigil?

-[Red Ghost growling] -[Boya groans]

[crowd cheering]

[both grunt]

[exhales]

[crowd cheering]

-[Red Ghost grunts] -[crowd gasp]

[guards panting]

Three thousand spears between Heaven and Earth. Break.

[guards grunting]

[guard groans]

[guard grumbling]

[guards gasp]

[guards whimper]

How have you been?

I'm not here to talk about the past.

You have something that isn't yours. Give it back.

[grunts]

[wood creaking]

[Qingming panting]

[groans]

[gasps]

[doors open]

[suspenseful music plays]

[Qingming] So, the Chief wants this sword too, huh?

Don't be coy. Give me the Scale Stone.

What?

So it really was stolen?

You're either pretending or you need to talk to your ferrets.

[Qingming] "Ferrets"?

They might cause trouble but would never steal the Scale Stone.

Awfully trusting of you.

[Qingming] Of course.

That's why I've made them my Spirit Guardians.

They're not evil by nature.

Spirit Guardians live and die with their masters

and never betray them.

That is what you taught me.

[suspenseful music continues]

[grunting]

The nose! Hit his nose!

-[gasps] -[man] Yeah!

[growls]

[crowd cheering]

[both grunting]

[grunting]

[thud]

Nice hit!

[crowd clamoring]

[Boya grumbling]

Kill the freaking loser.

[Boya gasps]

[clamoring]

-[announcer] That's the rule of the fight. -[woman] Yeah!

Only one gets to be alive.

[Boya grunts]

-[grumbles] -[crowd gasp]

[whimpers]

[tense music plays]

[monster snarls]

[Shenle grunts]

[Boya] Let's go!

[women gasp]

[announcer] Stop them!

Don't let them get away!

Be careful! This human can fight!

Where are you going?

Where are you going?

[Red Ghost growling]

-[Shenle] Huh? Watch out. -Huh?

[snarls]

[intense music playing]

[gasps]

-[clamoring] -Huh? Oh…

-[Boya gasps] -[Shenle panting]

[all gasp]

[demon] The Tushan Sword! What is the Tushan Sword doing here?

-[Boya grunting] -[monsters hissing]

[Boya panting]

-[guard 1] There they are! -[guard 2] Surround them. Get them!

[Boya grunting]

[Shenle and Boya grumbling]

-[Shenle] The ghost is helping you! -I don't want that thing to help.

Whoever returns the sword will get a hefty reward.

[monsters growling]

[Boya and Shenle grunting]

[screams]

[groans]

[Boya] Demon thief decided to surrender, huh?

-[Qingming] Captain… -[growling]

That thing you're holding is worth more than your life.

Give it.

-[Boya] Is it yours? -Of course.

Now you lost something, so it's your turn to be worried.

Give it now.

Come back to headquarters, prove my innocence.

[scoffs]

Fine.

[monster] The Yin Yang Bureau's people! Run, run!

Chief!

Baini!

[delicate music plays]

Baini.

[intense music rising]

[screaming]

Go, go, go.

[squeals]

[Red Ghost coughing]

-[Red Ghost groans] -[Shenle] Ouch.

-[Boya panting] -[Shenle moans]

[Red Ghost coughs]

[Shenle gasps] What's he doing here?

[Red Ghost retches]

[Boya] Well… where are we now?

[Qingming panting]

[gasping]

[woman] Huh?

[Shenle] This is Master's home.

That bandit lives here? So this is where he hides his loot.

[laughing]

-[monsters growl] -[Shenle gasps]

[Shenle] Wait, stop. Stop it. We're on the same side.

Did you think that following Master would make you one of us?

[pants]

Who wants to be one of you? You think I don't recognize you?

You're the filthy little thieves who stole the imperial tribute.

Who are you calling a thief? I'll rip out your tongue.

-[Boya grunts] -Quiet.

-[Boya mumbling] -Sister.

-Please, forgive this stupid human. -[both groan]

[woman] They are guests.

[monsters gibber]

Bring them inside.

[relieved sighing]

Thank you so much.

We'll just have a look around.

Don't mind us. We're not even here.

[Boya] Thanks.

[noble music playing]

[Qingming chanting]

[delicate music plays]

[Qingming] Baini.

Is there really no place for me at the Bureau?

-What's that? -[Baini] It's a token.

That's for girls. I don't want it.

This bracelet will let me cast a Spirit Guardian sigil on you.

The sigil's only for demons.

I'm a human.

You're also half-demon so that counts.

I'm not a demon.

And I'll never be one.

Qingming, it's okay if you are.

Be my Spirit Guardian, and I'll be your master.

Don't you know about that?

Once a demon has a master,

it knows it has a home,

and they will never become evil.

[delicate music continues]

[Boya] Well…

I…

Qingming…

from this day forward,

am Baini's guardian.

We now live and die as one and we shall never betray each other.

[Baini] Never betray each other.

[coughs]

[grunts]

-[groans] -Careful with those wounds.

I promise…

-I'll help you find the truth. -Your promise…

is worthless.

If that's true…

why would you take this one for me then?

I've been looking for the Scale Stone.

Your demons have been a nuisance for years. Everyone knows that.

You're definitely involved in this.

All the demons here have the same fate I do.

We're not allowed in the capital city and don't belong in the Monster Realm.

We're outsiders,

living as thieves.

Trying to survive

-the only way we know how-- -So now it means you and the demons?

You promised that we would always be you and me.

But you chose to leave the path and ruined everything.

[Qingming] I left the Bureau

because I had no other choice.

That night, seven years ago,

it was my turn to guard the Scale Stone ward.

I bumped in to Brother Cimu.

Qingming.

[Qingming] He was concerned about my well-being as always.

Brother Cimu.

Are you still being troubled by Xiangliu's spirit?

During the ghost festival,

it's especially bad.

Thankfully, you taught me that protection spell.

I've been chanting it a lot lately.

You can't afford to cause any more trouble.

If you truly lose control someday…

reverse the incantation and destroy yourself.

So Xiangliu doesn't possess you.

"Reverse the protection spell"?

I'll guard the Ward for you tonight.

Return to the unity, purity from within and without.

[Qingming] Little did I realize

that the evil spirit would be especially violent that night.

I knew…

that something serious must have happened.

…purity from within and without.

-[bell dings] -[monster hissing]

[ominous music playing]

The Golden Pagoda?

[Qingming] Inside the ward, there were bodies everywhere.

I tried to find Brother Cimu,

but the Golden Pagoda had melted.

[gasps]

The evil spirit inside the Scale Stone

was driving me insane.

[monster cackles]

[Xiangliu] Qingming, you're pathetic.

You're seen as nothing more than a freak in the human world.

but little did you know

that you belong to the rarest and most precious bloodline.

Purity from within and without. This order shall break the seal!

[Xiangliu] Don't bother with that useless incantation.

You are a demon.

You and I are connected with my blood.

[woman] Another one has gone for the Scale Stone.

[gasps]

-Hmm. -[Qingming] It was the Snow Queen.

She was supposed to be locked in the Sealing Chamber.

How did she get inside the Ward?

-Brother. Brother! -Qingming, get out.

[Qingming] That was the last time I saw Brother Cimu.

[grunts]

[groans]

[Qingming screams]

[Qingming] I had no choice but to defend myself,

then I saw that Brother Cimu had been torn to pieces by my counterattack.

And the Snow Queen had disappeared.

[Qingming gasps]

[guards panting]

No one has wanted to find her more than I have these past seven years.

"The Snow Queen"?

There's nobody else besides you who could send demons into the Ward.

Seven years ago, Brother Cimu died because of you.

Seven years later, people at the Bureau died because of you again.

You're not innocent in this.

If you're so sure it's me…

why do you still have our token?

Give it back.

[grunts]

[blows]

[banging]

[Boya] Huh?

-There it is again. -[door bangs]

-Something's in there. -Wait.

You can't touch anything in the courtyard.

Wanna bet I can?

-Hey. -Maybe that's the beheaded tribute.

[ferrets squeaking]

[roars]

-[Red Ghost grunts] -Wait your turn.

[ferrets dooking]

[gasps]

[grunts]

[growls]

-[roars] -[squeaks]

[snarls]

-[growls] -[grunts]

[grunts]

[Xiangliu] Qingming.

[gasps]

The Tushan Sword.

-The Ferret has mutated. -[groaning]

Kill it.

-[grunts] -[shrieks]

[Ferret gasps]

[grunting]

[sorrowful music plays]

[Qingming gasps]

What do you have to say now?

If the Bureau had done its job and protected the Scale Stone,

the Ferret would still be alive.

I won't bother with you all tonight.

You and your demon friends can have a few more days of peace.

But when I return, I'm going to destroy this place.

[tranquil music plays]

[gibbering]

[Shenle] The life of a demon, it needs a master.

So it has a home,

it doesn't become evil.

[inhales deeply]

But back then…

my demon sisters…

didn't even get to be buried.

Your demon sisters?

[Shenle] I was born an orphan.

I had to beg for food. One time…

I was chased by a ferocious dog.

Ended up passing out in front of a big house.

There was an amazing smell coming out of it.

I felt energized all of a sudden.

The pain from my wounds was gone.

You were dreaming, weren't you?

It was even better than a dream.

It was called the Courtyard.

"The Courtyard"?

Wait, are you talking about the famous brothel?

Why were you so happy to end up there?

It was wonderful.

The sisters treated me so well.

[crying]

[blows nose]

And when I was seven…

-the Bureau came. -[Red Ghost snores]

They told me that my sisters were all demons hiding in the city.

They weren't allowed to stay there anymore.

Those who cooperated were sealed away.

Those who resisted were slaughtered on the spot.

But that time…

there was a young man with them.

He was shivering.

He was a Yin Yang Master,

but he didn't harm any of my sisters.

Instead, he just held me in his arms

and gave me one of my sisters' umbrellas.

That was the day

I decided he would be my master.

Wherever master went…

that's what I'd call home.

[Qingmin] I am no one's master.

You really have an urge to say that?

You're the problem.

[Boya] If you're a demon, why would you become a Yin Yang Master?

If you're a human,

why do you keep those demons around?

-It's ridiculous. -We were both abandoned.

No need to insult each other.

-You're comparing yourself to me? -Aren't we both…

oddballs who got fired?

Hmm?

[Qingming] Come here.

-Drink with me. -[Boya] Hmph.

[Qingming] What's wrong?

Afraid I'd poisoned the wine?

-Do you think I'm afraid of you? -Yuan Boya.

[Shenle] Stop it.

[Boya] You want a drink? Let's drink.

-We'll see who's afraid. -[Shenle] Don't make a fuss.

[Shenle grunts]

[ominous music plays]

[woman] The chief left Qingming's garden with her injuries unhealed.

They've cast a spell to keep her from going back.

The Scale Stone must not be returned to the Bureau.

[playing flute]

[Red Ghost snoring]

[groans]

[Boya] Last round then I'm bringing you in and putting this case to rest.

Even my closest ally

has called me a traitor.

Yet you still believe

that I will keep my promise.

Then why…

would I not believe you?

If you have any sense of gratitude,

-you should make a toast to master. -Hmm?

Did you think you beat him all by yourself?

It was my master's sigil that helped you win.

[Red Ghost snoring]

Just hurry up and remove the spell, okay?

A grown man wearing a red bow

is so embarrassing.

Stop being such an ingrate.

-Hmm? -Master, can I have it too?

That's not a Spirit Guardian sigil.

The red bow in his palm…

is just a prank master's playing on him.

-[laughs] -[Boya] Huh?

-It's not a real sigil? -[woman] Humans can't be guardians.

Only demons can.

-[Boya] Fine with me. -So just because we're human,

we're not allowed to be a Spirit Guardian?

[woman] The human heart is fickle by nature.

Promising to be faithful till death do you part?

No human is capable of that.

Hey, don't look down on humans.

If you think humans are so bad,

that means half of your master is bad too.

If I think demons are stupid,

then half of your master is stupid.

In other words,

he's a bad and stupid

freak.

Hey.

Very well said.

[scoffs]

I am absolutely a freak.

From one freak to another.

Well, I'm a freak too. So I also get a drink.

[Red Ghost gibbers]

[all laugh]

[Red Ghost groans]

Hmm. Stupid demon.

[Shenle] Stop it. He is not.

-[Boya] Whatever. I'm so drunk. -[Shenle] Hey, pass it over here.

[Shenle] Come on. [giggles]

[eerie music plays]

Why have I ended up here?

-[guard 1] Chief. -[horse neighs]

-[guard 2] Chief. -[guard 3] Chief.

Chief.

We came as soon as we got your location.

Are you all right?

This place is dangerous.

We can't stay here.

Keep this safe.

The Scale Stone.

[Baini] Return it to the Bureau as fast as you can.

[wind gusting]

Hmm.

Watch out.

[guard grunts]

[Baini] Behind you.

[guards groaning]

[intense music playing]

[guards grumbling]

[giggles]

The Scale Stone.

Take it and go, Chief.

[Xican grunts]

[Xican grumbles]

[both groan]

[grunting]

[screams]

-[both grumble] -[chuckles]

[Xican groans]

[Baini grunts]

[gasps]

[groans]

[Baini whimpers]

[Qingming] Baini!

[both grunt]

[Snow Queen] It's you.

It's unfortunate we had to meet this way.

Then again, if you kill her,

get back the Stone for Master,

you're sure to be rewarded.

You started this seven years ago.

Today…

I'm finishing it.

[Snow Queen] If you want me, come and get me.

It's my fault for not trusting you.

We have the Stone. We can still win.

The Snow Queen mentioned her master.

-I'll find him. -Qingming.

When this is finally over…

the bellflower bracelet…

will be yours again.

With or without the bracelet,

you are my master.

We live and die as one,

and shall never betray each other.

I won't be long.

[retreating footsteps]

[sighs]

[foreboding music plays]

[Qingming] Was your master too afraid to show up?

Patience.

You will kneel before him shortly.

The whole world will kneel before him.

[grunts]

[Baini] Who's there?

[man] The Scale Stone doesn't belong to the human world.

It's been away from its rightful place for too long.

If that's true, then where does it belong?

[man] In the hands of the world's most powerful demon, of course.

[grunts]

[gags]

It doesn't matter who your master is.

Today, you'll finally pay your debt.

[Snow Queen grunts]

[Qingming grumbles]

[gasps]

[exhales]

[Snow Queen whimpers]

[sword clangs]

[Snow Queen] You really are a fool.

The master looked after you at the Bureau.

Weren't you always very grateful to him?

Cimu.

[Baini gasping]

I joined the Bureau at the age of nine.

At 30,

I became the youngest Defender ever.

But for what?

At that point, the Bureau had nothing more to offer me.

Travelling to the mortal world…

in my eyes, you were nothing but distractions.

I understand your obsession with Qingming,

but I have my own obsession.

[Cimu] The freak who'd been abandoned by everyone existed for only one reason.

To show me the true strength in demonic power.

[Cimu chuckles]

If little Qingming could possess it…

then with Xiangliu's aid…

what could possibly be out of my reach?

[grunting]

What I want…

is the power of the Scale Stone.

[groans]

Master Cimu…

is the savior

for both of us.

[grunts]

[screaming]

-[cracking] -[grunts]

[growling]

[Snow Queen] Do you hear the master's call?

You're lying.

[Snow Queen wheezes]

I know what I saw that night.

I watched Broher Cimu die

right in front of me.

Just a simple illusion.

[gasps]

Master.

SNOW QUEEN

[majestic music playing]

[Snow Queen moans]

I, the Snow Queen, hereby vow

that I shall serve

Master Cimu forever.

Greatness will be yours.

I…

I wish I could be there

to see you…

achieve it.

[growling]

[demon growls]

Show me the road.

[ominous music plays]

[ominous music playing continues]

[grunts]

[growls]

[roars]

[girl screams] Mommy!

Mommy, I'm scared. Mommy…

[girl screams]

I want to go home.

Mommy…

I want to go home.

I wish I'd been alive till the Demon Emperor's reign,

but I was born too late

and I had to become the Bureau's lapdog.

But if the Demon Emperor were to return, I would gladly sacrifice my life for him.

-[demon growls] -[gasps]

-[monsters grunting] -[ferrets squeaking]

Where is my wine?

More wine for me. More wine.

-[Shenle] Why are you still lying there? -[grunting]

Unless you wanna become a barbecue, we have to move now.

[Shenle groans]

[Boya] Barbecue? Where is the barbecue?

[ferret squeaks]

-[Shenle] Let's go. -[groans]

Huh?

What the heck is that?

Oh, what happened here?

What is going on?

Cover your nose and mouth with the sigil

to protect you from mutating.

[groans]

-[Shenle] Give me one too. -Humans don't need it.

What?

Why is that?

An evil demon has acquired the Scale Stone

and opened the gateway to the Monster Realm.

Hordes of demons will soon be invading.

Invading?

-Why? -[woman] For years,

Master has trained you for war

because he never forgot his duties as a Yin Yang Master.

And now…

we'll honor him

-and protect the Capital City. -Capital?

-[Boya] Who's invading the Capital? -[woman] Today is the day.

-Guard the Border Bridge with your lives. -What?

Spirit Guardians…

fight until your last breath.

We've burned our garden.

There's no retreat for us.

[Spirit Guardians growl]

[gibbers]

[Boya] Hey… Wait!

Shenle, where are you going?

-[Red Ghost grunts] -Uh…

You're using this as a cover to escape.

You are not one of us.

Go back to the Capital Guards.

-[Red Ghost gibbers] -[scoffs]

[Boya] Not one of us?

She says it like it's a bad thing.

[Red Ghost grumbling]

[Red Ghost gibbers]

-What? -[jabbers]

What does that mean?

[blabbers]

-Keep an eye on them? -[gibbers]

You know what? I think I'll do that.

[grumbles]

[Boya] Catch up. [panting]

[demon growling]

[ominous music plays]

[playing lute]

[continues playing lute]

[Qingming] Brother Cimu,

I have a question for you.

[Cimu] We're not at the Bureau.

So…

no need for brother.

[Qingming] Seven years ago, you were the Bureau's Defender

yet you conspire with the Snow Queen.

to slaughter your brothers

and steal the Scale Stone.

Purity from within and without, this order shall break the seal!

[Snow Queen] Master. A human body can't handle the Stone's power.

Only a demon's can.

[Cimu] Stay back.

[grunts]

-[groaning] -Master, let it go. Let it go.

-[grunting] -Or it will kill you.

-[screams] -Master.

Master. The alarm bells are ringing.

We need to go now. Live to fight another day.

[Qingming gasps]

Another one has come for the Scale Stone.

Mm-hmm.

[grunts]

-[Qingming gasps] -Mm!

[Qingming grunts]

[Qingming groans]

[Cimu] Sure, I lost an arm,

but its replacement was far superior. So it was worth it.

[continues playing lute]

You were the one

who showed me the true power of demons.

Yet you did not know how to follow your true nature.

That's why you're in this pathetic predicament now.

[Qingming] Actually, I think you,

Brother Cimu,

are far more pathetic.

[growling]

You've become a monster with nowhere to go.

Maybe my guard…

can take you in.

[Cimu] Take me in?

I answered Xiangliu's call.

I tortured myself

to create this demonic form,

and now I have the power of the Scale Stone.

Which makes you…

lower than the mud underneath my feet.

Xiangliu called to you?

Yes, and he told me that it was my destiny.

To be the strongest being on Earth.

And if anyone in the human world

or Monster Realm ever dared to defy me,

they'd be destroyed.

[grunting]

[groans]

[intense music playing]

[screams]

Innovation.

[yells]

[both grunt]

[Cimu grumbles]

[grunts]

[Qingming] I never would have thought I would kill you with this sword.

[snickers]

The Scale Stone

has been growing stronger for over a hundred years.

Did you honestly think…

this rusty old sword could beat me?

[ominous music plays]

Also, you should know

you're never gonna see Sister Baini again.

Your beloved,

your master,

is gone.

[both grunt]

[whimpers]

[Qingming groans]

[Qingming grumbles]

[ferrets squeaking]

[Boya] It's the most important moment and that freak is nowhere to be found?

Let me through. Let me through.

Well, I guess I just have to take care of everything…

myself.

[growls]

[scoffs]

[ferret gibbering]

[ferrets jabbering]

[percussive music playing]

[Boya] That…

That… that might work too, I guess.

Assuming it doesn't take a year.

-Uh… -Chew harder!

[Shenle] Don't let them cross the bridge!

[dramatic music plays]

[gasps]

[epic music playing]

[monsters gibber]

-[ferret squeaks] -[gasps]

[Boya pants]

[Red Ghost gibbers]

[monster snorts]

[tense music plays]

[ferret squeaks]

[screams]

[peeps]

[both growl]

[all scream]

[all grumble]

[yells, groans]

[ferret chitters]

[monsters grunt]

[all clamoring]

[screams]

[yells]

[all groan]

[shrieks]

[screams]

[man 1] What's happening?

[man 2] It's awful.

[man 3] It's demonic…

[man 4] Where? Is it poisonous?

[man 5] Are demons attacking?

[all grunting]

[groans]

[gasps]

[both panting]

[grumbling]

[Shenle screams]

[grunts]

[whimpers]

[gasps]

[groans]

Shenle! [yells]

I'm coming. [grunts]

[grunting]

Shenle. If we get out of this alive, I'll take that belt you picked up.

What bell?

[screams]

[Boya and Shenle grunt]

[grumbles]

-[shrieks] -[Red Ghost growls]

What bell are you talking about?

[Boya grunts]

Oh, yeah. Well, Red hit so hard that…

he'd be great at ringing bells.

[Boya and Shenle groan]

[Red Ghost growls]

[Boya grunts]

[grumbles]

[groaning]

[monster howling]

[Shenle] Why'd they stop?

[Boya] Careful, it could be a trick.

[Red Ghost growls]

[Shenle] What is that?

[monster growling]

Master?

[monster growls]

Huh?

[grunting]

[gasps]

[squeaking]

Master!

[Shenle] Master!

[Shenle cries]

[monster roars]

[Shenle whimpers]

[foreboding music plays]

[Shenle gasps]

Master!

Master!

Master!

[Shenle sobs]

-[groans] -[Shenle cries]

[plaintive music playing]

Master told me that if one day…

he should die,

all of you

were free to go your separate ways.

There's no need to die with him.

[plaintive music continues]

[sniffles]

[sobbing]

[sniffles]

It won't make any difference if we go back now.

So let's stay and die fighting.

There are more Capital Guards protecting the city besides me.

[groans]

[Cimu] I do so enjoy watching pointless struggles.

It's so amusing.

[monster snarls]

[decisive music plays]

[ferrets squeaking]

[chittering]

The bridge is breaking. Everyone, run!

[monsters gibber]

[Boya grunts]

[demons scream]

[both groan]

Shenle.

I'll remember you.

And I hope you'll remember me too.

[grunts]

Yuan Boya!

[Boya screams]

[gasps]

Destroy the bridge!

Even if it takes us with it. We can't let them pass!

[all grunting]

[grumbles]

[screams]

[Baini] Qingming.

[gasps]

Wake up.

[exhales]

Baini?

[Qingming] What is this place?

Thankfully…

-you kept your promise. -[exhales]

I've been waiting for you for a while.

Forget your demon friends.

Forget the Bureau and Pingjing City.

There's only you and me.

We'll be together forever.

Isn't this

what we always wanted?

You are not Baini.

Baini would never turn her back on the mortal world.

[Baini and Xiangliu] Are you sure about that?

[gasps]

[Xiangliu] Demon.

[Xiangliu growls]

Qingming.

You must replace Cimu

and join with me.

[Qingming] "Replace Cimu"?

[Xiangliu growls]

[Qingming] You were the one controlling him,

driving him insane.

[Xiangliu] You wouldn't embrace your true nature

and kept refusing my call.

Now that Cimu has pierced your heart,

you and I are finally connected.

This is the perfect time for us to become one.

Why does it have to be me?

[Xiangliu] Cimu does not share my bloodline.

You are the only one

who can truly bring about my resurrection.

[Qingming] No.

I'd rather reverse the protection spell

and destroy myself

than become your puppet.

[Xiangliu] But what about them?

Do you want them to be destroyed as well?

[Xiangliu growls]

[grunting]

[Xiangliu snarls]

I once made a pact with Baini

that I would never become an evil demon.

[Xiangliu] Baini. You also hold Baini's life in your hand.

[Qingming] No.

No! Stop it!

[Xiangliu growls]

Cimu has the power of the Scale Stone.

[Xiangliu snarls]

I am no match for him.

[Xiangliu] Join with me

and fully embrace your demonic nature.

Recognize me as your master.

You can still achieve greatness.

Recognize you as my master?

[Xiangliu] Would you rather be a weak human

or a demon capable of saving the world?

Which do you choose?

[monster grunts]

[growls]

-[Boya grunts] -[monster scoffs]

[both groan]

[grumbles]

[wheezes]

-[grunts] -Yuan Boya!

[snarls]

[both growl]

[heroic music rising]

Red!

[Boya grunts]

[Red Ghost growls]

[emotional music plays]

[gasps]

The bridge is broken.

We'll guard the city.

If it's the last thing we do.

[Cimu] Do you really think this will stop me?

[monster growls]

I'm Seventh-Rank secondary captain Yuan Boya,

I'm honored to fight alongside you

and die without regret!

Hmm?

[gasps]

[monster howls]

[all scream]

Huh?

Nice trick…

freak.

[exhales]

[both grunt]

[intense music playing]

[both grumble]

[screams]

[groans]

[snarling]

[Qingming grunts]

[grumbles]

[intense music continues]

[monster howls]

[both exclaim]

[grunts]

[monster howls]

[Cimu grumbles]

[both groan]

[grunts]

How did you…

[shrieks]

[groans]

[panting]

I was supposed to control both realms

and rule over all.

Vanity fills your heart.

You have no respect for the world

and no attachments to anyone or anything.

And you think you deserve to rule?

The Scale Stone

is not yours to use.

[cackles]

[Cimu cackling continues]

[sighs]

[dramatic music plays]

[Baini gasps]

[coughs]

[pants]

[woman] Chief,

we defended the Border Bridge

and saved the capital, all thanks to Master.

[emotional music plays]

Take the Scale Stone and come to the Yin Yang Bureau.

[gasps]

[Shenle] Master.

[emotional music continues]

[Baini] Qingming.

You once promised me

we'd live and die as one and never betray each other.

Did you forget?

Freak!

You know that stupid sigil of yours?

I believe in it. And look at them.

They were willing to die because of their loyalty to you.

[Xiangliu] Which do you choose?

So you used…

Cimu to force my hand.

You made him wreak havoc for both realms

to coerce me into joining you.

[Xiangliu] Yes.

[Xiangliu growls]

Return to the unity, purity from within and without.

[Xiangliu] You're actually reversing the protection spell?

You will destroy yourself!

Both my body and soul

will be destroyed.

And you will be trapped

forever

inside Cimu's body.

[Xiangliu roars]

You can't do this to me! [roaring]

If you want me to free you,

call me Master

and obey.

[Xiangliu screams]

-It's not possible! Stop it! No! -Will you obey?

Say it!

Qingming!

If you take me as your Spirit Guardian,

you will continue my work,

you will abandon everyone and everything you love

and you will forever be an enemy to humanity.

I'll ask again.

Will you obey or not?

[hisses]

[roars]

[snarling]

I swear on my name, Xiangliu,

that I shall become Qingming's Spirit Guardian from this day forward.

We will live and die as one

and never betray each other.

[Xiangliu growls]

[Qingming groans]

You're all released…

from my guardian spell.

[emotional music plays]

Master!

[Qingming] From now on, we are no longer connected.

[monsters gibber]

[monsters jabber]

[crying]

[gasps]

[emotional music soaring]

[Boya] In the seventh month of the 47th year,

disaster struck Pingjing City.

Hurricanes, tornadoes and pestilence ravished the land.

At least, that's what the historians wrote down.

My report, however, told a different story.

The battle at the Border Bridge decided the fate of the world.

And it was Qingming and his Spirit Guardians

who won this impossible battle.

I was there purely by chance

but somehow emerged as a hero.

Qingming.

What happened to you?

I fear I may never know for sure.

But what I do know is that you look so determined

when you released your Spirit Guardians.

And you clearly didn't have a choice.

[howls]

Your sacrifice brought peace and prosperity to people,

but it also scattered your guardians to the winds.

I, too, no longer have a home.

[all chuckle]

[Boya pants]

[noble music rising]

Qingming.

I don't care who's the master and who's the spirit guardian,

we are all hoping to see you again someday.

And we'll gladly follow you wherever you wanna lead us.

In the end, isn't that what it truly means to be a Spirit Guardian?

Sharing all sorrows and joys, living and dying as one,

and never betraying each other.

[closing epic music plays]

[somber music plays]

[man singing Mandarin]

[woman singing Mandarin]

[ominous music plays]