Original subtitles

CHINA FILM ADMINISTRATION

A few years after An Lushan rebelled against the Tang

the dynasty's western borders lay undefended.

The Tubos went on the warpath.

Late winter, the first year of Emperor Daizong's reign.

Governor Gao!

Our main forces are on their way.

You people of this little fort

are all going to die.

Abandon the fort.

Retreat to Lushui Pass.

Governor Gao!

The Emperor has fled the capital?

Yes.

His Majesty is in Shanzhou.

The Tubos have besieged Chang'an.

Marshal Guo Ziyi's army -

where are they?

Still in Lantian.

More ministers and generals have been executed.

His Majesty is resolute.

As soon as he took the throne

he executed Li Fuguo and Chancellor Yuan.

These are turbulent times.

The court has sent a flurry of orders

urging Your Excellency to lead your army

to attack the Tubo troops in the west -

forcing their main army to turn back

and lift the siege of Chang'an.

Instead, I abandoned Yunshan

and retreated to Lushui Pass

General Yan Wu will soon take over

But

you, sir, are still in charge

of the Southwest Sichuan Command.

Of course

when the court assigns blame

I'll be the guilty one.

Bring the Tubo prisoner for interrogation.

You must answer truthfully.

Reporting!

Governor -

dozens of cavalry are at the camp gates.

It's extremely urgent.

Says he's an Imperial Envoy, Military Inspector.

Military inspector?

Imperial Envoy?!

Go to the gates.

Inspect their credentials.

Receive them courteously.

Yes sir.

It's Heaven's Will!

Take the Tubo away.

Chain him up outside the tent.

Yes sir.

Get up! Move!

Governor Gao!

Someone, help!

Governor!

Inspector Cheng.

For not riding out to greet you

I apologise.

The Emperor sent me west

to ask you some questions, sir.

Please answer them all.

If you cover up anything, sir

or are less than clear

I am authorized

to execute you

and punish your entire clan.

I was about to kill myself for failing the emperor.

Ask, sir,

and I'll say all I know.

Li Bai.

Li Bai. Li Taibai.

Imperial Scholar.

Calls himself Green Lotus Hermit.

Li Bai.

You're not here about the Tubos?

How did you meet Li Bai?

Start from the beginning.

He was...

he was once my good friend.

We bonded over poetry.

All people of the Tang write poetry -

from His Majesty down to peddlars.

What's special about that?

Sunset's clouds color a twilit sky

Geese ride the North Wind through falling snow.

Don't fear loneliness on the road ahead

For who in this world doesn't know you?

I've heard that poem before.

I wrote it when I was thirty.

as a farewell to Dong Da.

I was so young and ignorant!

Even if everyone knows you

how many count as true friends?

So if Li Bai was once your true friend,

why, five years ago,

did you seek to destroy him?

Governor!

We met when we were young.

I was twenty.

It was near Dongting Lake.

We met

When he tried to kill me.

I'd left home for the first time.

I'm from the Gao clan of Bohai.

The 35th boy in my generation.

They called me "Gao Thirty-Five".

My grandfather served Emperor Gao zong as Northeast Commander.

He crushed the Turks and Goguryeo.

He was buried next to Emperor Gao zong's tomb

and made Prince of Bohai.

My father had great expectations of me.

He hoped that one day

I'd be like my grandfather -

flying the banner beyond the Great Desert.

Confucius said

"To practice what you learn -"

But learning to read

was really difficult for me.

When I looked at a book

the characters swam on the page like tadpoles.

racing around, just a big mess.

'Do your utmost to help others"

'Do your utmost to help others?"

Father -

F-forgive me.

The Gao Spear has a worthy heir.

My father was a warrior-scholar.

But when he died, in Shao, Guangdong,

He was but a minor official of a minor county.

I was sixteen. My mother had long passed away.

Father managed his affairs poorly. We had nothing.

I took his ashes from Guangdong back to Guangling.

I came home to an empty house.

I was left all alone in the world.

After three years of mourning

I left home for the capital, Chang'an.

didn't read well but I had martial skills.

It was Kai yuan, the Tang's Golden Age.

I would go straight to Chang'an,

serve the Emperor,

make my name

and restore the glory of my family.

I didn't expect travel to be so hard.

I rode west from Guangling.

After almost a month

I'd only reached Dongting Lake

and my money was running out.

Outta the way!

Thief!

Stop!

Damn thief. You're skilled.

But you're no hero up on that horse.

If you're a true fighter, dismount.

We'll see who wins then!

S-sir, who are you calling a thief?

You steal my horse and bags and you're no thief?

You're good at this, thief.

To block my sword isn't easy.

But with such skill, why thieve?

J-just now two horses galloped past.

They had saddlebags.

I think they were your thieves.

If you're not a thief

why do you wear the same hat?

Oh! A c-coincidence.

Okay, I believe you!

Lend me your horse!

My horse!

You're quite the warrior.

Thank you for saving me.

Earlier, I falsely accused you.

I beg your pardon.

No n-need to apologise.

The law of the Tang

says if a civilian meets a thief

killing him isn't a crime.

Otherwise, I couldn't have helped you.

Y-you know a lot about the law!

B-brother, don't mock me.

So young, and yet so formal.

Thank you.

Li Bai, at your service.

Gao Shi, at yours.

Gao Shi, lucky you lent me your horse.

If I didn't catch them, I'd never forgive myself.

What you're carrying - it's valuable?

I wouldn't care if it was gold or silver.

But this -

This is my dear friend Wu Zhinan.

Brother Wu-meet Brother Gao.

This is...?

We studied together in our youth.

After I left Sichuan I ran into him at Mt Lu.

We looked for a Taoist master together.

But fate was cruel.

Three years ago, he took ill and died.

I made a pledge

to take his remains somewhere beautiful

and bury him there.

These are his remains?

That's right!

I'll bury him by Yellow Crane Tower.

Let that famous tower be his companion.

A marvelous idea, right?

Come, Brother Gao -

Come with me. Let's go!

I'd never met anyone like him.

He said his family was from Longxi.

A 19th generation descendent of Li Guang -

related to the imperial clan.

He used to live in Sichuan

but was wandering the land, courting officials

in the hope one would recognise his talent

and commend him to the court

so he could serve the country.

Here you go!

Enjoy!

Brother Gao -

we've got time.

How you killed that thief with your spear -

it was like a flying dragon.

If you'll teach me spear fighting

I'd be happy

to teach you

the art of wrestling. Say yes?

Let's do it.

The Way of wrestling

is to answer force with feints

distract to attack

and rely on variation.

The key

is to trick your opponent.

It's too easy to see through you.

Gao Shi -

know how to trick an opponent?

When I was eighteen

I went to Mt. Changping

to study strategy with a Master Zhao.

I never mastered strategy

but I did learn Master Zhao's

art of beckoning the birds.

There's a North Sea fish

That's called the Kun.

It transforms into a bird

that's called the Eagle.

Li Bai.

I'd never met anyone like him.

So free in spirit.

He lived in this world

but seemed apart from it as well.

Got it!

Brother Gao -

living in such a golden age as this

we shall be Great Eagles!

The yellow birds flit

and perch upon the jujube tree.

Whilst cruel fate

steals the life of a good man.

The Great Eagle never spread its wings -

dying young and far from home.

O grief! O sorrow!

Brother Wu -

O grief!

O sorrow!

Brother Gao -

life is like the morning dew.

Blink and it's gone.

So tragic.

One day I'll devote myself to the Tao.

I'll discover the path

to immortality.

Brother Li -

"Confucius never speaks of the occult."

The Tao of Immortality

is too... too illusory.

Brother Gao -

nothing in life is easy.

In my time in this world

I want to do the hardest things.

One day

I'll prove myself.

Make a name.

Become a hermit, find the Tao.

But before I can do that

I must achieve official rank.

I've heard that the governor here

has a great eye for talent.

Brother Gao -

you've heard of "Passing the Scroll"?

Of course.

This governor loves essays.

I wrote "Ode to the Great Eagle" for him.

He'll promote me for sure.

The dynasty has a system for promoting talent.

Officials of high rank

were responsible for recommending talent.

So literati presented their best work

to prominent officials

to get recognition.

It was a shortcut to official rank.

It was called "Passing the Scroll".

But..

How can such shortcuts

be open to those of humble birth?

The Tang soldiers are terrified.

You've seen that.

Gao Shi has been relieved of his command.

Once the Tubo army arrives

they'll take Lushui Pass, easy.

We're also northern tribesmen.

We won't die for them.

Your army must act fast.

Yan Wu takes command in two days.

Yan Wu?

Yan Wu is coming back?

Yes! You know how strong he is.

We have to do this before that!

When the army arrives

we'll open the gates.

The tribesman are all prepared.

Understood!

But Li Bai

naturally didn't think that doors

wouldn't open for him.

Brother Li -

I'll wait here for you.

Brother Gao, come with me!

No need to wait outside.

This governor -

I've never been introduced.

Our families have no ties either.

Brother Gao

my talent

is superior to a thousand introductions

and a million years of ties.

I'm going.

Please go away.

The governor is tied up with official business.

He can't see you.

Has he read my essay?

Your father was a merchant?

Yes.

He was a trader

with businesses in Jinling and Yangzhou.

The descendant of a pedlar

and you dare to "Pass the Scroll"?

He has eyes but can not see!

Blind!

Blind!

Brother Gao! Let's go.

To argue with such an ignoramus

is below us.

Let's go to Yellow Crane Tower for a drink.

What do you say?

Let's go, Brother Gao!

That's how I learned

Li Bai was the son of a merchant.

By the laws of our dynasty

even a wealthy merchant belongs to the lower class.

The son of a merchant

can't even take the civil service exam.

C'mon, Brother Gao!

To get an official position

he had to "Pass the Scroll" and find a patron.

But wasn't this

even a harder road?

His genius could light the dark.

His brilliance was obvious.

But I'd never met anyone

so childishly innocent as well.

Waiter! Come!

Coming!

Bring us your best wine.

Brother Gao - bottoms up!

Brother Gao, come, quick.

See the Yangtze?

It flows from my hometown.

Endless waters, countless peaks -

this river brought me here.

Brother Gao, does your home have great rivers too?

Bohai has the Yellow River.

I've yet to see the Yellow River.

But I know the poem "Upon Stork Tower"

The sun rests on the peak before it fades

The Yellow River flows towards the sea

Wang Zhi huan's wonderful poem.

Waiter! Waiter!

Coming!

What can I do for you, sir?

I'm overcome with inspiration.

I want to dedicate a poem to Yellow Crane Tower.

Where are your poetry boards?

Ah, sir, you write poetry?

Of course.

Sir,

do you have official rank, then?

I'll have one soon, it's in reach!

Sir, why don't I bring you more dishes?

Writing poetry is so demanding.

Stop stalling. Take me to the poetry boards.

Alright.

C'mon.

Our tower has a long history.

For centuries, guests have left poems here.

Just look around, sir.

A fine place.

Waiter, of all the poems here

which is the best one?

I will write one next to it.

To date the best one..

To date the best one...

I'm not so learned

but visitors all agree

it's one written just two years ago.

Just two years ago?

It's by Master Cui Hao.

He's from the Cui clan of Boling.

The Cuis is are first among the Six Great Clans.

Young Master Cui

passed the civil service exams at nineteen.

Enough. Give me a brush.

Your brush.

This one, right?

He was inspired after drinking.

His calligraphy is marvelous too -

it's all marvelous!

The Ancient rode off on the Yellow Crane

Leaving but an empty Yellow Crane Tower here

The Yellow Crane, gone, never to reappear

White clouds drift past, year after year

The trees of Hanyang, the sparkling stream

On Parrot Isle, grasses lush arid green

Dusk sets in, where is my home?

Mist and waves, a melancholy scene.

Wonderful, really wonderful.

Such great talent!

Master Cui is young, elegant, high-born -

and so talented too.

Where did those two dolts come from?

Youthful ignorance, that's all.

They're still a pair of dolts.

Brother Gao -

You go west to Chang'an, I go east to Yangzhou.

Today we part ways.

One day

I'll write Yellow Crane Tower's best-ever poem.

Brother Gao, let's make a date.

In a year, whether you succeed in Chang'an or not

you must visit me in Yangzhou!

I'll show you the wonders by its famous bridges

and its beauties too.

Next year, I'll visit for sure.

I touch my sword.

I raise my eyes.

Like stones in clear water, I shall be seen.

Gao Thirty-five -

That splendid talent of yours

will one day burst forth from your heart.

I take off my cap

We share a smile

We drink wine

And I sing for you.

Chang'an...

It was my first time there.

Chang'an...

Oh, I do beg your pardon!

"To govern, first put your own house in order."

Roll call.

Wang Changling?

Chang Jian!

Chang Jian?

Raise your hands.

Turn around. Okay.

I said turn, how hard is that?

Is it so hard to understand?

Now get your butt back into line.

I was a poor student, I'd never pass.

At least I avoided this humiliation.

Aside from the exams

there was another path.

The emperor could test and appoint you himself.

He's discerning and looks out for great talent.

But a High Noble has to recommend you first.

Escaped?

Let him go. No need to chase him.

You're young and accomplished.

Who was your mentor at court?

His Excellency, Inspector Eunuch Gao.

He was devoted to the court.

But Empress Zhang and Li Fuguo smeared his name

and he died in exile.

His Majesty has since eliminated that cabal.

I killed Li Fuguo myself.

You're loyal to your mentor.

That's rare.

It's a pity that back then my family

had no one such as yourself.

Only when I got to Chang'an did I know

people there saw the Gaos

as a clan past its prime.

Watch it.

S-so sorry, Mr Li.

Prince Qi thinks your spear dance marvellous

and insisted I include it

in tonight's program for Princess Yuzhen.

Personally, I don't see

what's so marvellous.

The way you wield it

is less dancer than warrior.

Mr Li, please, please forgive me.

I will do my best

to earn their applause.

Princess Yuzhen is very cultured.

Good luck.

So be it.

I respect Prince Qi's wishes.

Also, that zither player.

I have to check that out, too.

Prince Qi pushed two new acts on me tonight.

Sparkling bright as the stream

Their scents and flowers' aroma blend

Whose boys are those loafing on the banks?

Prince Qi.

Only Prince Qi

truly loved talent.

He said

His Majesty adored his sister Yuzhen -

If she recommended someone

he'd appoint them.

That night, Prince Qi held a party

so I could show her my skills.

It's a bit scary.

As a battle technique it's superb.

Spear, spear.

The Gao Spear can kill enemies

but it can't impress a woman.

Defaming the princess behind her back.

Who...

How dare you, Gao Shi.

I'm teasing. Looks like I scared you.

You... you naughty kid.

Prince Qi told me about tonight's program.

Your spear skills are impressive.

Such a shame

you lack a battlefield to use them on.

Today you must settle

for courting applause at a little party.

Little Master, how are you related to Prince Qi?

I'm not related.

My humble surname is Du, my name is Fu.

Du Fu, from Jingzhao

Ah, the Du family of Jingzhao.

It's an honor.

Come, listen.

This is Prince Qi's other program for tonight.

Who's this?

You've surely heard of him.

He's from the Wang clan of Hedong.

Wang Wei.

Red beans in the south flourish in the spring.

I knew his poetry and painting were sublime.

but not that he also played so beautifully.

The thing about him

is that he's a bit cold.

I try to talk to him

but he always ignores me.

Such a personality isn't good at "Passing the Scroll".

So Prince Qi invited him tonight too.

I do like you though.

Gao Shi, what are your other talents?

Princess Yuzhen likes music and dance.

And painting too.

I'm no good at any of that.

But as for poetry...

This way.

So striking and so talented!

What's going on?

This robe suits you better.

Princess Yuzhen is here.

Your Highness.

M'Lord.

I didn't realise you were the famous Wang Wei.

I've wanted to meet you for a long time.

Please, sit with me.

I wouldn't presume.

If you'd like a referral, just say the word.

You have a gift for recognizing greatness.

This way.

Actually, I'm so-so at those arts as well.

Especially my calligraphy - hideous.

Practice doesn't improve it.

I love writing poetry.

But poetry -

anyone can do that.

The successful candidates are "picking flowers".

Look!

"Picking flowers"?

It's a custom.

Pass the exams

and you may enter any Chang'an garden

to pick flowers

for tonight's celebrations in Qujiang.

Are you okay?

Pardon me!

That was you with the spear last night.

And it's you!

Thank you, sir.

I'm so sorry. Are you alright?

No problem. Please don't worry.

CHANG JIAN

Return home a failure, birds and flowers jeer.

Better to remain in Chang'an one more year.

Such a coincidence, dear.

We're off to sing at the Qujiang parties

We didn't expect to meet you here.

The scholar gave the lady a flower.

She'll have a lucky year.

M-miss!

Last night at Prince Qi's residence

what song were you singing?

The lyrics were beautiful.

I learned it a few days ago.

"Gathering Lotuses"

The lyrics are by a brilliant young man.

Li Bai.

Miss, we need to hurry -

we can't be late for the celebrations.

Li Bai.

His fame had already reached Chang'an.

Even a singsong girl knew his name.

Wang Wei, Li Bai, they were right.

Unknowns had no business in Chang'an.

I needed to go elsewhere,

make a name, then come to Chang'an.

So you went home?

Yes, but before I did,

I had an appointment to keep.

You went to Yangzhou?

I went to Yangzhou.

Let's go report this!

They were from Daming Temple. You owe me!

Yangzhou

was full of temptation and sweetness.

At the inn there, I asked about Li Bai.

Everyone knew him.

Where is he?

Brother Gao!

This is so unexpected!

And so great. I've really missed you!

Brother Li -

we agreed to meet in a year. I kept my word.

We agreed to what?

This fellow, I've told you about him -

Dongting Lake, strong as an ox,

felling thieves with one blow.

A Bohai Gao, Gao Shi, Gao Thirty-Five!

You're just in time.

We're about to do something big.

What's that?

We're going to save someone.

Come, come!

From the dragon's pool and tiger's lair

we'll rescue a divine beauty!

Dragon's pool, tiger's lair?

Stop there!

Brother Gao -

don't you want to see who you saved?

Master Li -

I was at Master Su's banquet.

I was only halfway into my dance

when you barged in and stole me away.

Where are you taking me?

Banquet?

Su Sixteen. Such a bore.

Dancing for such bores is so dull.

I rescued you from all that tedium.

Shouldn't you thank me?

I thank you.

But my mother won't forgive you.

Whatever. We're off to Master Pei's house.

Master Pei is with you?

Pei Twelve's father -

General Pei - is hosting a banquet tonight.

Wu Daozi is coming to paint.

The General will do a sword dance to inspire him.

Wu Daozi's painting, General Pei's sword -

two treasures of the Tang in one night!

That's what I call a great banquet.

Stop that boat!

She's on that boat! Chase it!

Row faster, faster!

Master Li, don't be angry.

I can't make General Pei's banquet.

That's my bad luck.

What if instead, here on this boat

I show you my new Zhezhi Dance?

Why not.

Great!

Dance! I'll play the drum for you.

Thank you, Master Li.

A beautiful Zhezhi Dance.

A beauty's smile as precious as gold

Rippling her sleeves, she sings an exotic tune.

Master Li, did you like tonight's dance?

It outshone the moon on the river!

Here, this is all the money I have on me.

It's your reward.

Thank you, kind sir.

But

you caused big trouble tonight.

My mother needs comforting too.

Of course, yes!

This ring is white jade from Mt Tian.

Take it!

Thank you so much.

Marvelous dancing, a beautiful night!

Youth is fleeting, age is upon me

Flowers fade; my heart is heavy

I long in dreams; reach for that sun-filled place.

Come!

Incredible!

I can't see.

We're late, we were delayed on the river.

Let's go to the window.

I've got it!

The Way of calligraphy!

I've got it!

Yes, while watching Wu Daozi paint.

Zhang Xu found the Way?

Bravo!

What luck!

Wonderful!

Only in magnificent Yangzhou

do you find such fabulous parties.

The night is young.

In which songhouse

should we continue the fun?

We'll party til the sun lights the east.

Brother Gao, aren't you coming?

Brother Li, forgive my directness.

But spending money like water -

how long can you go on like this?

Won't your incredible talent

dissipate amongst such nightly revels?

Gee, uh..

If not amidst Yangzhou's wine and beauties -

where should it dissipate?

A great man aims to serve his country.

Serve the country?

Talent alone means you can serve?

Your family's spear is famous.

Would the talented Master Gao

allow a talentless, common wastrel like me

to challenge him to a contest?

My pleasure.

Great!

The Pei Sword and the Gao Spear -

both arts perfected on the battlefield.

What a good contest.

Yes, but the Gao Spear

wasn't designed for performance

but for killing enemies.

Bravo!

Dancing or fighting with the sword -

it's all related. I understand now!

My father's swordsmanship is stellar

and he's a great military man.

But

Imperial Chancellor Li Linfu

only promotes non-Han generals

while restraining the great Han families.

My father

might be the best swordsman ever

but at home in Yangzhou

he can only use his sword to entertain.

Brother Gao -

Did you know

that though my family has boys

only I

am the true inheritor of his art?

And yet

I'm a woman.

No door to serving my country is open to me.

A woman's talent!

Talent! Talent!

Pear blossoms drunk on spring's blush

The verdant stream plucks night's strings

Golden times are fleeting

Storms make gloomy the years.

In Yangzhou, everyone knows her.

An exceptional woman

as fine a poet as a swordswoman.

She dresses like a man. Her father indulges her.

Don't fret - losing to Pei Twelve

is nothing to be ashamed of.

Let's go, let's get a drink.

Time for a drink.

Brother Li, it's me who lost.

I'm also aware

of my youthful arrogance and over-confidence.

I'm neither learned, nor a great martial artist.

I'll go home, study and practice hard

until the day comes that I'm ready

and on that day I will finally shine!

Brother Li, I take my leave.

But you just got to Yangzhou!

The Great Eagle will soar one day.

Gao Thirty-Five -

you just stopped stuttering!

It's true.

I never stuttered again after that.

Reporting!

Sir, it's urgent military news.

The whole Tubo army has left Yunshan.

and is headed towards Lushui Pass.

The whole army?

We saw it ourselves, it's true.

There's cavalry and infantry

Altogether 70 or 80 thousand.

How far are they from Lushui Pass?

Twenty li, about six hours.

Six hours.

Please, sit. We still have time.

I returned to Liang Gardens in Shangqiu.

Our family estate still had some fields

and several old houses.

Three years soon passed.

It was spring again.

Green woods fringe the village, verdant mountains surround it.

Brother Gao -

why can other people study alone

but I have to read something first

for you to remember it?

Gao Shi -

we caught a thief by the village temple.

He says he's your friend!

Brother Gao, long time no see.

Li Bai!

It's true, he's an old friend.

Please, let him go.

He was napping naked in the temple!

He doesn't look respectable.

I apologise.

This friend from afar

is rather casual by nature.

Mr Gao says he's a friend.

Brother Li, how'd you get here?

Gao Shi.

remember I taught you the art of wrestling?

To answer force with feints?

Come, let's have a match.

Gao Shi, you've improved a lot.

You win, Brother Gao.

You look well.

Brother Li, have you been well?

No, I've been wretched.

A few months ago I got very sick

and almost died in Yangzhou.

Forget it!

Come, let's drink. C'mon.

Sure.

Happily, I just caught some fish.

They'll go well with wine.

Fishing with straight hooks like Duke Jiang?

He never caught any fish.

But I have.

Cheers.

I'm working hard on my martial skills.

Oh, I'm learning to write poetry too.

I know.

Lonely view of autumn grasses

Bitter winds blow for thousands of miles

You've read my poetry?

People are reading it everywhere.

Brother Gao, your splendid talent

has finally burst forth!

I speak easily now

But studying is still hard for me.

A village student has to read to me

before I can absorb anything.

That's fine. Who cares?

As a boy studying at Elephant Ear Mountain

I never seemed to improve.

One day I skipped class.

Know what I saw by the stream?

An old woman, polishing a rod

of metal this thick.

I asked, what are you doing?

The old woman said

'Effort plus time turns a rod into a needle fine."

So I went back and studied.

Studying is always hard.

You see, I had to work hard too.

Brother Li, is that a true story?

If I tell it of course it's true.

Brother Gao, are you still single?

Poor as I am

and with no hope of an official position,

what family would give me their daughter's hand?

I'm getting married.

Congratulations! What family is she from?

The Xus of Anlu.

Retired Chancellor Xu?

That's right.

I really must congratulate you!

These are the celebrated Liang Gardens?

A thousand years have passed.

Now all that's left is this collapsed wall

and a few ruined pavilions.

Worldly prosperity is an illusion.

Ephemeral as a flower's bloom.

All those years in Yangzhou

passed as though in a dream.

That day when we said goodbye

I received terrible news from home.

My father suffered a sudden illness

and passed away in his prime.

Of all the people in the world

he loved me best.

Before I got home, my brothers split the estate.

They said I'd already frittered away my share.

I didn't get a cent.

Overnight

I found myself

an outcast, persona non grata.

I...

I had no idea.

Thrown out of home

I set myself up in a little inn

where I fell suddenly and terribly ill

and nearly died.

That night..

Moonlight at the foot of my bed

Appears to me like frost.

Lifting my head, I behold the moon

Lowering it,

I think of home.

I know that poem of yours

What I was saying

is that I'm done with my prodigal ways.

I'm getting married!

In a month, I'll go to Anlu

and pay my respects to the Xus.

They have a courtyard where I can live.

I want to have children.

Though my sons won't bear my surname

the surname Xu

is that of a great and respected family.

You're joining your bride's family?

He said the Xus were a powerful family.

By joining them as a son-in-law

he could change his status.

He was the son of a lowly merchant.

For his children to be surnamed Xu

was a good thing.

But I was totally opposed to it.

Taking her family name?

Society disdained men who did that.

In the future how could he face

his own ancestors?

It's not far from Xiangyang. Look!

He asked me to go with him to Xiangyang

to get some advice.

If his most respected and trusted friend

was also against it

then he'd give up the plan.

Meng Haoran lives in a wonderland.

Brother Gao, you'll adore Meng Haoran!

Meng Haoran.

Of course I knew his name.

Deep sleeps of spring

all around me birds sing.

A loud stormy night

countless petals fall.

Master Meng isn't home. He left two days ago.

He left?

My Master said

to tell friends he'd gone to Jiangxia,

where he'd change boats for Yangzhou.

I have to catch up with him.

Brother Li!

Hurry, we'll race to Jiangxia

and catch him before his boat leaves.

This business with the Xus -

I wrote to him about it.

I'm sure he's going to Yangzhou to see me!

And so we returned to Jiangxia

and Yellow Crane Tower.

Which is the boat for Yangzhou?

The boat to Yangzhou

just set sail.

Brother Li!

Mr Meng!

The advice I asked for.

should I do it or not?

The sound of the wind muffled his answer.

Mr Meng!

Brother Gao, I need your strength!

Waiter!

Give me brush and ink.

I want to write a poem!

Okay, sir, let me go.

The lone boat slowly vanishes against the sky

I see only the Yangtze flowing to the edge of the world.

Waiter -

these excellent lines of mine.

How do they compare with Cui Hao's?

Very fine, very fine.

It's just that, it's a bit short.

Only four lines.

Master Cui's poem is eight lines.

What's length have to do with quality?

Brother Gao -

I was just overcome with inspiration.

After parting that day

more years fled past.

I decided to join the army.

I'm awkward in company.

I didn't have Li Bai's ease

or his and Wang Wei's immense talent.

We Gaos have always been military men.

It's in braving danger we make our name.

That's the Gao family's destiny.

You're known for your literary talent.

Why not stay and be a military secretary

instead of leaving to lead a tiny cavalry?

General -

The districts of Andong

were where my grandfather fought 30 years ago.

Not to follow his example would bring dishonor.

I must put on my armor and do battle.

Come.

This man leads a frontline cavalry.

If you win, I'll give you your own cavalry.

What are we competing in?

Wrestling.

Good choice!

Our opponents are Khitans.

They're renowned wrestlers.

Fine. Let's wrestle.

Bravo!

Well done!

You're a worthy heir to the Gaos.

Captain Gao!

That whole year in Jizhou

I didn't write a single poem.

The Khitan army is on the move!

I was ordered to locate the Khitans.

For months

we found no trace of them.

There! Over there!

The Khitans are burning the plains!

Retreat!

Orders from the General:

A cavalry platoon of the Right Army

twelve li to the northwest

has been ambushed by a river.

We need to relieve the siege now!

All soldiers mobilize!

From start to finish

we never found the Khitans'main forces.

The next order I received

was to retreat and hold our position.

A retreat is far more dangerous

than an advance.

Beautiful!

Gao Thirty-five -

The Jizhou army

isn't a place for you.

Go home.

Those soldiers are off to Longxi.

Their hair is whiter than mine

and they still can't shed their armor.

Is that the inn's poetry pavilion?

Wherever they're from, poets

like to leave a little something here.

Want to write a poem?

There's charcoal by the wall.

I...

wrote poetry again.

O'er the northeast rises the smoke and dust of battle

The Han fight the fierce enemy far from home

The men vanquish all before them.

Gao Shi.

Hey.

Gao Shi.

Gao Thirty-five.

Gao Shi.

Who's there?

Me!

Brother Li?

Brother Li! What are you doing here?

Brother Gao, ah, Brother Gao

I never imagined meeting you here.

I just saw on that poetry board -

quite by accident - the poem you wrote.

I asked and it's true, you're here!

Brother Li, you...

why are you dressed like that?

I'm fleeing for my life.

That new poem of yours -

Gao Shi -

it's the best one you've ever written.

Congratulations!

While in cruel battle soldiers die

In the general's tent, beauties dance

Young wives down south weep, comfortless

The men marching north gaze back at emptiness

Gao Thirty-five -

these lines will live forever!

Brother Li, you're too kind.

Brother Li, why are you on the run?

It's a long story.

Years ago, after we parted at Yellow Crane Tower

I went to Anlu.

Later my father-in-law died.

He'd raised a younger relative

as his heir.

He pushed me aside.

Didn't you warn me

not to join my wife's family?

One day Master Danqiu came by.

He'd entered a Taoist order.

He's an old friend from home.

Have you heard of him?

Of course.

A Great Eagle can't fit in a finch's nest!

So I left Anlu

and travelled with Master Danqiu

seeking the Way to immortality.

It's not something that comes quickly.

A friend in the Youzhou Army

invited me to visit.

Maybe

I could serve the Tang on the frontier.

As a result,

guess what I discovered?

An Lushan

was planning a rebellion.

Governor An Lushan

is the Tang's most trusted general on the borders.

That's a capital crime!

Do you have proof?

Yes.

That day I went to a tailor

to pick up my robe.

This one.

The tailor made a mistake.

He gave me the wrong robe -

an official one.

But not one of the Tang!

I didn't think much about it at the time.

I returned the robe.

But as it turned out -

I went for a stroll that afternoon

and passing the tailor's on my way back

saw that his shop

was in flames. Nothing was left.

I was deciding what to do

when my friend rushed over

and warned me not to go home

but to flee immediately.

The tailor and his apprentices

were arrested by the governor's personal guards

and executed.

As I left the city, the gates shut.

and the whole way here

I noticed

soldiers on my tail.

I need to report to the court.

I'm sure

that official robe

was part of the rebel An Lushan's plans

was part of the rebel An Lushan's plans

to form his own court!

This is a very grave matter.

But the court won't believe

the words of a commoner.

I have to find an official

who'll speak to the Court for me,

and report the situation.

Everyone who tries, dies.

It's damn useless.

Who's there?

An Lushan's ambitions

are well known in the borderlands.

But Li Lin fu needs An Lushan and Shi Siming

as allies in court.

As for the emperor -

he's getting old

and doesn't like trouble.

So what's the point of reporting?

Please, who are you?

You -

Li Bai, Gao Shi -

I've heard of you both.

You're poets.

You've heard of me?

Quick, down!

They found me!

But if everyone knows about it

why do they still want to kill me?

That official robe -

may be they're not ready

for people to find out.

Li Bai, come out.

If you don't

we'll burn the place down.

Li Bai, those poems of yours -

I like them.

You out there -

An Lushan's men, right?

Who are you?

I'm Guo Ziyi.

Serving general under Geshu Han,

Governor of Longyou.

Guo Ziyi?

Surprised to see you here.

You're meddling in the Pinglu Army's affairs now?

Yes.

I have a houseful of men here

who thanks to your noise

can't get a good night's sleep.

So it's all of our business.

Guo Ziyi, your great reputation precedes you. Great skills.

Since you want to deal with this

the Longyou army will owe us one.

You'll pay for this one day.

Let's go.

So, before the sun sets

they're going to execute you at the inn?

The empire is in trouble.

The country needs men like you -

brave and strategic.

How can it be that

a fire breaks out in a military camp

and you get blamed - and beheaded!

Military discipline is harsh.

I've executed others in the past

today it's my turn.

Heaven decrees it.

But it's wrong!

Heaven gave us these gifts -

surely our day will come!

When I arrived yesterday

I heard Geshu Han was leading his army west.

They're half a day's march away.

Sir Geshu is an old friend of my family.

I'll go plead with him.

Do all you can to protect Brother Guo.

I'll be back before sunset!

Hurry.

Move!

Stop the execution!

So the two of you

together saved Guo Ziyi's life.

Such a talented man

shouldn't die a wrongful death.

Who could've guessed

that later, he'd suppress An Lushan's rebellion

and restore the Tang?

No one could've known.

Brother Gao,

How'd you persuade Geshu Han?

It wasn't too hard.

He wanted me to work for him.

I said that in the future

wherever he led his troops into battle

he just had to call for me

and I'd serve him as secretary.

But you never wanted

a desk job, right?

I still don't.

I give myself ten years.

Ten years.

Gao Shi, the first time we met

was ten years ago, yes?

Yes.

Ten years.

Right.

I'll also give myself ten years.

Let's see if in ten years

we can make it into the court.

I take my leave

Gao Shi -

Hard is the journey, hard is the journey

So many forks in the road, which is the true one?

One day the wind and waves will favor me

I'll raise white sails and head to sea.

Gao Thirty-Five -

you're back!

Still want me to read to you?

Have you made progress?

Not really, I still need you!

Great!

Liang Gardens were even more of a ruins.

I never imagined that the poem I wrote at Pujinyi Inn

in a rush of indignation

would spread wide and far.

From then on everyone knew

that I, Gao Shi, was a poet.

What's more, after years of effort

I could finally study on my own.

But, the poem's fame

made the general I spoke of -

the one with the dancing girls - furious.

And caused all the high officials

to avoid me like the plague.

What they wanted

were people to flatter them.

Not a literary man

who could ruin their reputation.

A literary man.

Back home in Shangqiu,

ten years slipped past.

Gao Thirty-Five -

I hope you've been well.

Li Bai wrote to me.

In ten years searching for immortality and the Tao

he found neither.

His fame, however, had grown.

Out of the blue came an imperial summons

and he was called to Chang'an.

As a member of the Hanlin Academy

he won the emperor's admiration.

His Majesty Xuan zong believed in the Tao.

Li Bai said

the one who recommended him to the court

was Princess Yuzhen.

Oh?

Who'd imagine

Princess Yuzhen would recommend Li Bai!

By then she had converted to Taoism.

She adored Taoists, unworldly people.

Unworldly people

He -

finally found the shortcut to the court.

He invited me to Chang'an.

He said he had many friends there.

In court and beyond, everyone loved him.

He wanted to help me make my mark.

Hurry, come to Chang'an, don't delay!

Excuse me, sir -

how can I get to Longevity Hall?

Mr Li is truly an unbridled genius.

I toss back my head, laugh at the sky, we will not stay down for long.

Beautiful line. Peerless!

How about.

Ziyang the Immortal, asks me to play my jade flute

Such a free spirit!

is this Li Bai's home?

Yes, he lives here.

Are you a fan, too?

Every day, his fans come

to gather here.

It's quite a scene.

Gao Thirty-Five?

It's been ages, ages!

And you, my good man, are...?

Twenty years ago, at Prince Qi's residence

we hid together inside a lion.

I'm Du Fu!

So it's you!

This is wonderful.

I've been reading your poems in recent years.

Everyone loves your border poem

But my favourite is your line

Fresh breezes blow for thousands of miles, a traveler sails home on the river.

So free and elegant!

You're too kind.

One must ascend the highest peak

to see how small the mountains are

expresses such lofty ideals.

Are you here to see Li Bai too?

Yes. I knocked but no one answered.

He hasn't been home for days.

He's quite a drinker!

He'll be at the Qujiang wine shop where exotic beauties

perform new songs and dances.

Come, let's go.

We'll look for him together.

Qujiang Pool!

The year's scholar parties are over

but the wine shops

still do a roaring trade.

Brother Du, are you preparing for the exams?

I've tested twice

but didn't make it.

My own Qujiang party

will have to wait.

Here we are.

Over there!

Inspector He!

Inspector He is fine.

See? Sound asleep in the pool!

Hurry, Li Bai is up there now!

What was Inspector He's line?

Don't mourn spring's fallen petals

spring's fallen petals -

Great line!

Not an easy one to follow!

C'mon, if you don't do well

you have to stay on the plank!

Tomorrow we enter a glorious garden!

How's that?

It'll do. You can get down.

You need to do some calligraphy.

No problem.

Du Fu?

A new friend?

It's Cui Zongzhi's turn.

Can't I pass?

No!

I'm afraid of heights!

You're younger than Inspector He -

you need a longer plank!

Don't be afraid.

Here's a lute.

Play and you'll be fine!

Li Bai.

You missed! You're fined two cups!

Gao Shi, Gao Thirty-Five!

Come, come. This is -

Gao Shi -

you've all heard of him, right?

We've been good friends for over 20 years.

Come, let me introduce you.

Prince of Ruyang!

Emperor Ruizong's eldest grandson!

We're all equals here, even the imperial clan!

It's an honor.

And this here

is Li Yong, Prefect Li -

best "running script" calligrapher of our day.

A pleasure!

I'm honored.

And these two gentlemen

are Wang Changling and Cen Shen!

You've heard of them, of course.

The bright moon of Qin, the passes of Han

The soldiers on the march have yet to return.

Just a minor poem.

As if brought by a spring breeze

Snow blooms on trees like pear blossoms

An honor.

You're all known for your border poems.

Honored to meet you.

Cui Zongzhi - young and gifted!

I'm honored.

Zongzhi's lute playing

expresses the anxiety of the battle march.

Brother Wang Wei!

Brother Wang Wei is here too.

Such serendipity!

Brother Wang Wei

join our poetry game?

Enjoy yourselves, I have to be somewhere.

Enjoy yourselves, I have to be somewhere.

That burp cost Wang Wei

ten years of self-cultivation.

My turn!

I'll have a go.

Gao Thirty-five, Gao Thirty-five -

quickly, tell me -

what brings you here to Chang'an?

Why didn't you drop me a line first?

I...

I received your urgent letter.

My urgent letter?

Brother Changling, are you having trouble?

Brother Changling -

if you can't continue the poem

you'll have to pay the penalty.

Here I come!

Give me the lute.

Li Bai is no ordinary mortal.

He's a celestial being!

So when can I get back to the heavens?

Exotic Beauty - dance faster!

Here we go!

A zither from Dragon Gate's parasol tree

A jade cup with wine of perfect clarity

Bravo!

Li Bai - a merchant's son with exotic bloodlines.

And yet so famous.

The Tang really embraces all kinds.

I tune the strings and drink with thee

Lovely as flowers, Exotic Beauty

Selling wine, smiling at spring breezes

Smiling at spring breezes, dancing robes aflutter

You didn't follow the last verse -

you wrote a new poem.

It's not even the same form.

Penalty!

Sure, what's the penalty?

Write ten poems or you can't come down.

Ten poems is nothing.

I'll write one hundred for you!

Beauty - dance faster still!

Brother Gao!

Brother Gao!

Even my horse is keen to go home.

Brother Du -

I take my leave.

No need to see me off.

You only just got to Chang'an

and now you're rushing off?

Why not stay a few more days?

Li Bai -

when Brother Li Bai sobers up

he'll definitely want to keep you here.

This endless drinking -

when will he ever sober up?

The Great Eagle soars amongst the clouds

He has no time for mundanities.

I don't blame him.

Brother Du -

before I leave

would you go somewhere with me?

Brother Du -

did you know

that when my grandfather

was 20, as a cavalry officer

he captured the Turks' Chebi Khan.

At 30, he helped Li Ji annihilate the Goguryeo Kingdom.

At 40, he smashed the Silla.

At 42

he passed away.

I'm 43 this year.

Brother Du -

I hope you pass the exam and are admitted to court.

Here's to your early success.

Farewell!

Take care.

As for me

I returned home once more.

Good shot.

Why didn't you shoot?

A solitary goose

flying back south -

let it go.

Brother Gao, such compassion -

are you planning to become a Buddhist?

Brother Du Fu!

Brother Gao!

Have you been well?

Gao Thirty-five.

Li Bai -

you..

why are you wearing Taoist robes?

These last few years in Chang'an

Li Linfu became increasingly

jealous and ill-willed towards Li Bai.

The emperor's Precious Consort hates me.

I thought I'd written a poem

in praise of her beauty.

I never imagined

she'd think I was mocking her.

so her cousin, Chancellor Yang Guozhong, hates him too.

Chang'an

has become a treacherous place.

His Majesty...

I didn't win the Emperor's favor

and fell rudely from grace.

To bow and scrape before the high-born

Steals all the joy from my heart.

So... what do you plan to do?

I will enter a Taoist order.

A Taoist order?

Gao Shi -

I'm not joking.

Really.

Behold these ruins

once King Liang's garden palace.

Where is he now?

This terrace -

once rang with song and dance.

When we met in our youth

we both had such ambition.

But in the blink of an eye

here we are, nearly fifty.

My wife

passed away recently

The ways of this world

are no longer for me.

Gao Shi -

Life is short.

I want to become a Taoist hermit.

Master Gao of Beihai

has prepared a Taoist altar in Jinan.

He'll officially ordain Brother Li there.

Brother Gao, you may not know

but ordination is an arduous undertaking.

Brother Li must ascend that altar

and chant scripture and spells

day and night.

So I want to ask the two of you

to support me.

Gao Shi -

you're my best friend.

You understand me.

With my character

if I go alone

I'll never make it.

This Great Eagle

can no longer fly

and doesn't want to either.

He said

I was his best friend.

Was I?

In any case

I agreed.

Newly ordained Taoists,

Brother Li

the rituals have concluded

Nothingness will be your teacher

and nature your friend.

Refine your snowy countenance

and extend your golden life.

Brother Gao -

I saw the immortals of heaven

inviting me to return there

I want to return to heaven

Let's congratulate Brother Li Bai

on his admission to the Taoist orders.

Brother Li

you're a Taoist now.

You're a holy man.

Are you still going to drink like this?

Yes!

Wine is part of my spiritual practice.

It's the nectar of immortality.

Gao Shi -

in the 20 years of our acquaintance

this is the first time I've seen you

drink with such gusto!

Come! Come!

Drink up!

Bottoms up!

I can't drink anymore.

That won't do.

I'm done too.

No way.

Master Cen

Master Danqiu

You have to keep drinking!

Everyone has to drink.

No one stop!

I have a poem!

I'll revive your spirits with poetry.

Can you see

the Yellow River decanting from the sky

And racing to the sea never to return?

Can you see the grief of white hair in the mirrors

As dawn's black silk turns to evening snow?

When life goes well, be joyous

Never show the moon an empty cup

Heaven gave me talent for a reason

Spend now, riches return in season

Stew the lamb, prepare the ox, let us feast

Tonight we'll drink three hundred cups at least

Master Cen, Master Danqiu

drink and don't put down your cups

I'll sing for you -

Please lend your ears

Bells and jades are not so precious

As eternal inebriation

Ancient sages leave no name

It's great drinkers who enjoy great fame

At the table of Prince Chen of old

Wine flowed like water

Hosts shouldn't fret over costs -

Buy more wine and fill those cups

Fine horses, expensive robes -

Tell the servant to sell these for wine

We'll banish sorrow from this world

We'll banish

sorrow from this world.

Li Bai -

I have to go.

You're going?

Yes.

After this goodbye

who knows when we'll meet again?

Perhaps we won't see each other again.

If we don't -

see you in the celestial realms.

You're a celestial being, returning home.

As for me -

I'm of this world.

I'll linger here.

Li Bai -

I'm off to the frontier to serve under Geshu Han.

I'll keep my ten year vow.

What... what vow?

Your poem said it all.

The Yellow River racing to the sea, never to return.

Though I'm running out of time

when I face my ancestors

I'll be able to tell them

although I couldn't be like them -

blooded heroes on the battlefield

and I was only able to become

a very minor clerk

yet with each stroke of my brush

I too galloped across battlefields.

Galloped...

Such lofty spirit!

Bravo, bravo!

But, Gao Shi -

If you're going to the frontier at your age

let me test how strong you are!

Come

let's wrestle.

Sure!

Gao Shi -

you won.

Go then.

Go then.

Farewell.

Warriors of Zhao with tassels flying

Curved swords bright as shining snow

Silver saddles on white steeds

Galloping past like shooting stars

I wrote this poem 20 years ago

it was my impression of you, Gao Shi!

The living are but passers-by

The dead have gone back home

The world is an inn that welcomes and farewells

The ancient dust is soaked with tears.

When I first got to Longyou

we laid siege to Stone Fort.

It's easy to defend, hard to attack.

For six months, 30,000 Tang soldiers laid siege.

Casualties were heavy.

Starved of supplies, the Tubos finally surrendered

That's when we learned

only 600 men had defended the fort.

A mere 600 defenders

kept us pacing outside its walls half a year.

Yunshan Fort

is another Stone Fort.

Reporting!

Dawn.

I'm not here about Stone Fort.

Return to the topic of Li Bai.

Although I was at the frontier

I often read his new poems.

He roamed the great mountains and rivers.

He had regrets, but his poetry

became even more brilliant.

Sir -

Do you have many regrets in life?

Regrets?

Of course.

Even if I perform meritorious deeds,

only in the biographies of eunuchs

will people ever see my name.

The situation in the country is worrying.

The court is in chaos.

Everyone feels in danger.

Among the poets I know

Wang Changling and Cui Zongzhi are in exile.

Governor of Beihai, Li Yong.

was 70 when they beat him to death.

Frontier life is hard, but uncomplicated.

Ten years flew by.

My life was nearing its end.

These ten years seemed uneventful.

In all this time

I only saw Li Bai once.

was in Xuan City on official business.

It was at the ferry crossing.

Who's that?

Li Bai, the great poet -

and Taoist too!

Magistrate Wang Lun is a big fan.

That's Li Bai's new wife.

The granddaughter of Chancellor Zong.

Things have worked out for him.

He joined her family, not the other way round.

For such an eminent family, I'd do it too.

And so would you!

Li Bai, ah, Li Bai -

I thought the paths we were on

were fixed.

But sometimes, suddenly,

within the space of a day,

a few centuries worth of events occur.

An Lushan

had been plotting rebellion for over ten years.

Who'd have thought that

Li Linfu, that rotten old stick

would be the last pillar to fall, toppling the house.

Although Li Linfu was avaricious,

he was also brilliant and capable.

After 19 years of holding the dynasty together

he died suddenly.

Yang Guozhong took his place.

An Lushan

rebelled.

Reporting!

Pass on the order

to gather the troops.

Official Appointments: Secretary, Ranks Eight and below

Gao Xian zhi and Feng Changqing

were both executed.

The great dynasty has no generals left.

I'm the last, and I'm half-paralyzed.

If I defy orders to fight this important battle

the court will naturally execute me too.

Who will succeed me?

I fear it'll be the Eunuch Inspector Bian Lingcheng

If I were a little younger

it'd be much better.

Ursa Major sits high in the sky

Geshu is armed day and night

The Tubos lurk about the herds

But dare not cross Lintao

Ride out the pass.

Open the gates!

The whole army is in agreement.

The Tang's luck has run out.

The world belongs to An Lushan's Yan dynasty.

We're defecting to An Lushan.

Geshu Han.

We'll ask you one last time -

will you surrender

or not?

Help me onto my horse.

Sadly, I spent a life practicing the spear

yet never used it on a battlefield

But I'll use it against these backstabbers.

Gao Shi -

It's me those traitors are after.

If you can, I want you to escape the siege

and tell the emperor

that not all northern tribes are traitors!

General!

Go, Gao Shi!

I, Geshu Han,

won't surrender!

Go!

Tong Pass had fallen.

The court had fled from Chang'an.

I chased westwards after them.

They killed the Chancellor

and made the Precious Consort commit suicide.

I heard many officials and soldiers

had surrendered to An Lushan.

Among those who hadn't

some powerful and ambitious men

had mutinied.

The world was in chaos.

Early summer, the 44th year of Emperor Xuanzong's reign.

Emperor Xuan zong fled Chang'an for Sichuan.

Mid-summer, in Ningxia, his son was crowned Emperor Suzong.

Xuanzong was named Emperor Emeritus.

Xuanzong appointed his sons

to the posts of regional governors.

He made Prince Yong Governor of the Four Regions and General of Jiangling

In autumn, Suzong ordered Prince Yong back to Sichuan.

Prince Yong refused.

YANGZHOU. SIX MONTHS AFTER THE FALL OF TONG PASS

The new Southern Region Governor

has control of the Yangtze-Huai area

and quelled the prince's rebellion.

GAO SHI, SOUTHERN REGION GOVERNOR

Reporting, sir.

Rebel troops are gathering at Jiangling.

Sir -

Prince Yong orders state revenues sent to Jiangling.

Cavalry scouts have left Jiangling.

Reporting, sir -

Prince Yong's troops have left Jiangling, whereabouts uncertain.

Prince Yong issued a call to all "heroes".

Read it.

It's said that extraordinary crises

give rise to extraordinary people

who achieve extraordinary things. Prince Yong -

It was an extraordinary crisis indeed

that led me, a lowly official of below 8th Rank

within six months

to become the Governor of three regions.

Governor, we have news of Prince Yong's army.

Tell me.

They're coming down the Yangtze

heading for our army in Yangzhou.

They'll arrive in three days.

Prince Yong is a mediocrity, more ambitious than wise.

If he wanted to win control

he'd ride north to retake Chang'an from the rebels

or east to relieve the siege of Suiyang.

It wouldn't be easy, but if successful,

it would change the world.

To ride southeast to attack me

is the cowardly act of a weak ruler.

How can he win the loyalty of heroes?

Does he have much clout?

Have any great men joined in his cause?

Prince Yong has sent out the call

but no one has answered.

Oh, right, except one poet.

Li Bai.

Li Bai is on Prince Yong's side?

Li Bai wrote eleven whole poems for him.

Eleven poems?

In spring Prince Yong leads his army east

Flying the Imperial standard

His warships calm the winds and sea

Turning mighty rivers into gentle ponds

Mt Beigu was once a fortress of Wu

The towers reflections shimmered on the water

Madam Li -

Prince Yong has been executed.

Li Bai's crime

is that of treason.

I know.

Li Bai -

You'd already taken a Taoist path.

Why tangle with worldly affairs?

I failed to advance my spiritual state.

Between mountain and sea, where do immortals dwell?

My wife and I lived a solitary life on Mt Lu.

Prince Yong sent several emissaries

to invite me to help him.

I wanted such a chance my whole life.

Though I'm old, how could I refuse?

You didn't know he was rebelling?

Rebelling?

Wasn't he the Tang's top military officer?

Top military officer?

You didn't realise that in such chaos

all types of men would claim the throne?

But...

Li Bai -

do you know where you are now?

Jiangxia.

Yellow Crane Tower.

Right. Gao Shi, Governor Gao -

we got to know each other here.

Jiangxia... Yellow Crane Tower...

Gao Thirty-Five will save me.

You...

The depth of your old friendship

means they suspect a cover up!

Don't you see?

I won't say any more.

Just come and see this!

The governor said to tell you

to take a good look.

The world of the Tang

is in turmoil, devastation as far as the eye can see.

Everywhere is like Jiangxia.

Everywhere is in ruins like Yellow Crane Tower.

Madam Li -

Please don't worry about me.

I'm not like my husband.

I...

am so disheartened.

I'll spend my remaining years in seclusion on Mt Lu.

Take care.

Wife!

Wife!

Wife!

I'll return to Mt Lu!

Wait for me!

You didn't save Li Bai.

Court politics were like skating on thin ice.

You were always one step from the abyss.

Guo Ziyi interceded with the emperor

and saved him.

Instead of execution, exile in the southwest.

Today the Tang has two elite armies.

One is under Guo Ziyi.

The other

is under your command.

Yes.

The Tubos have besieged Chang'an for three months.

You haven't mobilized your troops.

Are you afraid of repeating Geshu Han's mistake

when his army was annihilated outside Tong Pass?

I'm also afraid of repeating Li Bai's mistake.

In old age, haste leads to error.

But the gossip in court has it

that you and Guo Ziyi

fell out over whether to save Li Bai

That it's because of this discord

that you won't mobilize your army.

The emperor sent me here

to get to the bottom of all this!

The Tubos have also heard this rumor.

Reporting!

Reporting, Governor

Tubo troops are halfway through the valley.

They're three hours away from here.

Of the men at the Qujiang wine shop that day

He Zhizhang, Wang Changling, Cui Zongzhi are dead.

Though still alive

Du Fu wanders homeless,

and Wang Wei, imprisoned by the traitors,

lingers on in desolation.

This candle

whatever happens,

will be extinguished.

The drops of blood on this bandage

are just red wine dregs.

Why are you toying with me?

I apologise, sir.

But it's time to take back Yunshan Fort.

Hand me my spear!

This is a long-forgotten old road.

The steep path can't accommodate a large army.

But it's a shortcut.

In two hours

we'll reach the walls of Yunshan.

I understand.

Today, here,

you face the same predicament

as Geshu Han did at Tong Pass.

Whether you stay or go, you lose.

So you're doing neither.

Instead, you're taking a step back

to lure the Tubos into the narrow gorge -

recovering Yunshan while cutting off their retreat.

Now those 70,000 Tubo soldiers

have no escape route.

They're like a turtle in an urn.

The Tubos besieging Chang'an

will abandon the siege

to save this turtle.

Brilliant.

But Governor Gao, Lushui Pass may be risky.

It's only held by 6,000 soldiers.

What if they can't defend it?

The Tubo Army -

The Tubo Army is coming!

You're right.

But Yan Wu

should be at Lushui Pass by now.

The man who came here was his messenger.

Yan Wu and his 20,000 elite troops

weren't really coming in two days

The reinforcements are here!

but

today at dawn.

My respect.

Your Excellency is famous for being straightforward

and yet you pulled off this masterful ruse.

Chang'an will be saved.

As Inspector Gao's top disciple

you're of course a great martial artist too.

That year of the rebellion

Inspector Gao took on the enemy single-handed.

And you are his worthy successor!

Governor Gao -

wouldn't such a provocation be too obvious?

There's trouble!

Assemble! Hurry!

This is for Chang'an!

Chang'an!

Fall into formation!

Gao Shi - Do you know how to trick your opponent?

Create a detailed scenario so plausible

that no matter how you view it

it looks real.

So real you even fool yourself.

Yan Wu is young, vigorous and brave.

These 70,000 Tubos

are hungry, cold and will be easily beaten.

Governor Gao knows of course

that this plan

means Yan Wu will get all credit for the victory.

I take my leave.

Governor Gao, when I passed by Chengdu

I saw Du Fu.

Oh, how is he?

Very good.

He said

to thank Your Excellency for looking after him there.

Du Fu also said

that when Guo Ziyi acted to save Li Bai

it was because Your Excellency had written

to plead with him.

You wanted to save Li Bai

but wanted Guo Ziyi to do it

to prevent talk that you did it out of friendship -

which would hurt Li Bai.

Your Excellency, I guessed right, yes?

I also have news of Li Bai.

What?

Before the New Year, the emperor announced an amnesty.

Li Bai has been pardoned!

He wrote a new poem after his pardon.

I've memorized it.

Out from Baidi amongst the colored clouds

A thousand miles to Jiangling in a day

The monkeys chitter on the banks

My little boat passes by ten thousand peaks.

The monkeys chitter on the banks

My little boat passes by ten thousand peaks.

Your Excellency, you can tell from the poem

that he's in good spirits.

He hadn't reached his place of exile

when, in Baidi, he got news of his pardon.

Sir, we're ready to depart.

Okay.

In this collection,

whose poems do you like?

Of course, yours.

Cut the sweet talk.

Who else?

Cui Hao, Meng Haoran, Wang Changling are all great!

Cen Shen too.

Wang Wei - his poems

are too hard for me to understand.

You'll understand them one day.

Of course.

Sir, don't think badly of me

but I like Li Bai's poems best.

Chang'an in a flood of moonlight, ten thousand homely sounds

So great.

By the way, sir -

why weren't Du Fu's poems

included in this collection?

Aren't they good enough?

They'll appear in other anthologies.

No taste!

But all the Yellow Crane Tower poems

are in the collection.

Such a pity -

the tower was burnt and is no more.

It's okay.

So long as the Yellow Crane Tower poems exist

Yellow Crane Tower is still with us.

Of the three hundred thousand, only I returned to Chang'an.

Who's is that?

Wang Changling.

A young soldier of Chang'an

mounts the ramparts to regard the Warrior Star

Wang Wei!

At twenty, master of book and sword. I go to Chang'an

Little devil, I wrote that!

Gazing from afar toward Chang'an; how I miss its people

Li Bai! Li Taibai!

Chang'an is like a dream; when might I return?

That's Li Bai too!

Chang'an -

so long as poetry exists

and books exist,

Chang'an will still be with us.

Li Bai, at your service.

Gao Shi, at yours.

In winter, Li Bai passed away

In the second year of Emperor Daizong's reign,

Yan Wu defeated the 70,000 Tubo soldiers trapped in the gorge.

Guo Ziyi recovered Chang'an.

Gao Shi returned to Chang'an and was demoted.

But he was soon promoted to Imperial Advisor and made Marquis of Bohai.

Of all the Tang poets, he had the most distinguished record of service.

Two years later, Gao Shi died.

30,000 Miles From Chang'an

Gazing from Chang'an at brocaded peaks

Doors fling open at the mountaintop retreat. (Du Mu)

Life is short, drink till you're old

and snow blankets the streets of Chang'an. (Shu Dan)

Before Calyx Hall the dew is fresh

The people of Chang'an are at peace. (Zhang Yue)

Time loosens beauty's hold

Have you not seen our visitor

Each time he's here, he grows old. (Bai Juyi)

Chang'an in a flood of moonlight

Ten thousand homely sounds (Li Bai)

A young soldier of Chang'an

mounts the ramparts to regard the Warrior Star (Wang Wei)

I was banished to far-off Changsha

My gaze strains westward towards Chang'an and home

I play my melancholy flute in the Yellow Crane tower

In spring plum blossoms rain down on River Town (Li Bai)