WEBVTT 00:00:09.000 --> 00:00:10.720 align:center Zhao Si, this is our household. 00:00:11.440 --> 00:00:12.480 align:center I am the patriarch 00:00:12.560 --> 00:00:13.800 align:center and Shi Ying's elder brother. 00:00:14.920 --> 00:00:17.160 align:center You're welcome to attend the wedding if you want to, 00:00:17.320 --> 00:00:19.800 align:center (Fifth Master, Dou Shi Shu) and if not, you're free to leave. 00:00:21.640 --> 00:00:22.640 align:center (Zhao Si) Leave? 00:00:26.240 --> 00:00:27.240 align:center My foolish sister, 00:00:27.840 --> 00:00:28.960 align:center did you hear him clearly? 00:00:29.960 --> 00:00:32.600 align:center When your husband was studying in Chanxi, 00:00:33.200 --> 00:00:36.120 align:center he was being well taken care of by your so-called best friend. 00:00:36.520 --> 00:00:38.760 align:center And now she wants to marry into the Dou family. 00:00:39.560 --> 00:00:41.320 align:center And now they're having a wedding. 00:00:42.400 --> 00:00:43.400 align:center (Wang Ying Xue) Gu Qiu, 00:00:43.760 --> 00:00:47.040 align:center you know how difficult it was for me to survive alone in Chanxi, 00:00:47.440 --> 00:00:48.800 align:center enduring all kinds of ridicule. 00:00:49.000 --> 00:00:51.360 align:center Now that my father has been reinstated and promoted, 00:00:51.720 --> 00:00:53.280 align:center I could easily marry well. 00:00:54.120 --> 00:00:57.240 align:center But I admire Shi Ying's honesty and kindness, 00:00:57.880 --> 00:01:00.640 align:center (Seventh Master, Dou Shi Ying) and I cherish the close bond we share. 00:01:00.920 --> 00:01:03.120 align:center That's why I decided to marry him as his concubine. 00:01:03.400 --> 00:01:06.520 align:center It's common for officials to have multiple wives. 00:01:07.760 --> 00:01:08.920 align:center Better a friend 00:01:09.480 --> 00:01:12.040 align:center than some woman you don't know, don't you think? 00:01:14.520 --> 00:01:15.520 align:center A friend? 00:01:18.680 --> 00:01:20.960 align:center Is this how you repay my trust as a friend? 00:01:27.560 --> 00:01:29.560 align:center You knew she is my best friend, 00:01:31.280 --> 00:01:33.120 align:center and you knew he is my husband. 00:01:36.600 --> 00:01:38.760 align:center -How could you... -Why couldn't they? 00:01:39.400 --> 00:01:42.120 align:center Scholars of Shi Ying's age already have multiple children. 00:01:42.760 --> 00:01:44.440 align:center You've been married for nearly ten years, 00:01:44.600 --> 00:01:46.320 align:center and yet you've only given him one daughter. 00:01:46.400 --> 00:01:47.600 align:center If he doesn't marry a concubine, 00:01:47.680 --> 00:01:50.760 align:center are you trying to let our branch of the family die out? 00:01:51.040 --> 00:01:53.320 align:center Shi Shu, please stop. 00:01:53.440 --> 00:01:55.160 align:center It's stated clearly in our law. 00:01:55.280 --> 00:01:57.360 align:center Taking a concubine requires the consent of the legitimate wife. 00:01:57.400 --> 00:01:58.920 align:center My sister has every right to refuse. 00:01:59.200 --> 00:02:01.040 align:center Young Lady Wang's father, Wang Xing Yi, 00:02:01.560 --> 00:02:04.400 align:center is a protégé of the Grand Secretary, Wu Yi Fen. 00:02:05.160 --> 00:02:07.400 align:center Upon his reinstatement, he's now a fourth-rank official. 00:02:07.480 --> 00:02:08.720 align:center Marrying into the Wang family 00:02:09.640 --> 00:02:11.840 align:center would be a tremendous boost to Shi Ying's career 00:02:12.280 --> 00:02:13.280 align:center How could she refuse? 00:02:13.440 --> 00:02:16.160 align:center So you think my family is too insignificant and powerless to be 00:02:17.400 --> 00:02:19.400 align:center -of any help to you now? -Gu Qiu. 00:02:20.160 --> 00:02:21.440 align:center I would never think that. 00:02:21.520 --> 00:02:24.200 align:center The husband rules over the wife. It's the natural order of things. 00:02:24.280 --> 00:02:26.720 align:center Our family needs this marriage alliance. 00:02:27.400 --> 00:02:28.400 align:center Rubbish! 00:02:28.720 --> 00:02:30.920 align:center Over the years, how much gold and silver has my family 00:02:31.000 --> 00:02:32.800 align:center provided for your political connections 00:02:32.960 --> 00:02:34.720 align:center and for Shi Ying's education? 00:02:34.880 --> 00:02:37.880 align:center How much of it wouldn't stand up to scrutiny? 00:02:38.120 --> 00:02:39.800 align:center Is that your so-called natural order? 00:02:40.360 --> 00:02:42.240 align:center If you keep pressuring my sister, 00:02:42.440 --> 00:02:46.000 align:center I'll submit a memorial to the court exposing everything. 00:02:47.160 --> 00:02:49.000 align:center Zhao Si, hold your tongue! 00:02:49.960 --> 00:02:51.800 align:center Are you really going to ruin both our families 00:02:52.080 --> 00:02:53.400 align:center just for your sisters? 00:02:53.800 --> 00:02:54.800 align:center Try me. 00:02:56.280 --> 00:02:57.720 align:center Things aren't what they used to be. 00:02:58.560 --> 00:02:59.560 align:center If it comes to that, 00:03:01.000 --> 00:03:03.000 align:center we'll see whose future gets cut short. 00:03:11.120 --> 00:03:12.120 align:center I told you, didn't I? 00:03:12.560 --> 00:03:13.560 align:center Don't worry, Shou Gu. 00:03:14.000 --> 00:03:15.240 align:center My father will take care of it. 00:03:16.520 --> 00:03:18.120 align:center This concerns the future of Dou family. 00:03:18.440 --> 00:03:20.120 align:center Uncle Shi Shu won't give up so easily. 00:03:20.960 --> 00:03:22.400 align:center We must resolve this quickly, 00:03:23.000 --> 00:03:25.400 align:center or things will become much harder once Wang Xing Yi comes. 00:03:27.400 --> 00:03:29.120 align:center I only wanted someone to rely on. 00:03:29.560 --> 00:03:31.400 align:center I never meant to hurt you 00:03:32.120 --> 00:03:33.600 align:center or put Shi Ying in a difficult spot. 00:03:34.440 --> 00:03:37.040 align:center Gu Qiu, if you really can't forgive me, 00:03:38.240 --> 00:03:40.440 align:center grant me a white silk ribbon so I can hang myself. 00:03:43.280 --> 00:03:45.120 align:center Spare me the act. 00:03:46.240 --> 00:03:47.440 align:center If you really want to die... 00:03:50.720 --> 00:03:51.720 align:center Here. 00:03:52.680 --> 00:03:55.640 align:center Gu Qiu, since when have you become so cold-hearted? 00:04:02.520 --> 00:04:03.520 align:center Ying Xue! 00:04:03.920 --> 00:04:04.920 align:center Let go! 00:04:05.120 --> 00:04:06.840 align:center -Ying Xue! -Let me die! 00:04:07.280 --> 00:04:08.280 align:center Shi Ying! 00:04:09.440 --> 00:04:11.360 align:center Let me die! 00:04:13.400 --> 00:04:14.480 align:center Father. 00:04:18.200 --> 00:04:19.200 align:center Shou Gu? 00:04:25.520 --> 00:04:27.000 align:center I missed you so much. 00:04:28.920 --> 00:04:30.720 align:center Who is this lady on the floor? 00:04:31.360 --> 00:04:33.040 align:center Why don't you tell Shou Gu yourself 00:04:34.560 --> 00:04:35.680 align:center who she is? 00:04:37.760 --> 00:04:38.760 align:center She... 00:04:42.320 --> 00:04:44.320 align:center She's a guest here to offer her congratulations. 00:04:45.600 --> 00:04:46.600 align:center Shi Ying... 00:04:47.040 --> 00:04:50.840 align:center Why are you and Mother fighting over a guest? 00:04:53.520 --> 00:04:54.520 align:center We're not. 00:04:59.040 --> 00:05:01.240 align:center Father, Mother. 00:05:03.480 --> 00:05:04.480 align:center Tuo Niang, 00:05:04.920 --> 00:05:06.680 align:center please escort this lady out. 00:05:07.200 --> 00:05:08.800 align:center I want to talk to my parents alone. 00:05:09.920 --> 00:05:10.920 align:center Yes, that's right. 00:05:11.120 --> 00:05:13.160 align:center Since she's just a guest, let's send her out first. 00:05:13.240 --> 00:05:16.200 align:center We will let her know our decision later once we've talked over it. 00:05:16.400 --> 00:05:17.840 align:center -I'm not leaving. -Get up. 00:05:17.920 --> 00:05:19.840 align:center Let go of me. I'm not leaving! 00:05:22.800 --> 00:05:23.920 align:center -She... -Ying Xue! 00:05:28.240 --> 00:05:29.240 align:center Ying Xue! 00:05:29.920 --> 00:05:33.040 align:center -I can't breathe. -It's all right. I'm right here. 00:05:34.240 --> 00:05:35.560 align:center You're having an asthma attack. 00:05:37.800 --> 00:05:40.360 align:center When I had a cold, Ying Xue took care of me so closely 00:05:40.680 --> 00:05:42.840 align:center that she ended up developing asthma herself. 00:05:43.840 --> 00:05:44.840 align:center Gu Qiu. 00:05:46.000 --> 00:05:47.240 align:center I can't leave her like this. 00:06:19.760 --> 00:06:21.200 align:center Madam, it is the legitimate wife's duty 00:06:21.280 --> 00:06:22.960 align:center to organize the ceremonies for taking a concubine. 00:06:23.080 --> 00:06:24.600 align:center Fifth Master asked me to deliver these for you. 00:06:24.680 --> 00:06:26.160 align:center Please make the preparations soon. 00:06:27.760 --> 00:06:29.240 align:center Aunt hasn't even agreed to accept her! 00:06:29.320 --> 00:06:30.320 align:center What ceremonies? 00:06:30.880 --> 00:06:32.200 align:center Get out! 00:06:33.440 --> 00:06:34.440 align:center Mother, 00:06:34.760 --> 00:06:35.880 align:center as long as you don't agree, 00:06:36.560 --> 00:06:38.360 align:center given Young Lady Wang's family background, 00:06:38.560 --> 00:06:41.000 align:center they won't allow her to remain an unacknowledged mistress. 00:06:41.560 --> 00:06:42.760 align:center Even if she's fine with it, 00:06:43.080 --> 00:06:45.680 align:center her father, Wang Xing Yi, would never agree. 00:06:46.200 --> 00:06:47.400 align:center If we stall long enough, 00:06:47.480 --> 00:06:49.120 align:center the matter might quietly resolve itself. 00:06:52.000 --> 00:06:53.000 align:center Shou Gu, 00:06:53.680 --> 00:06:55.600 align:center how did you become so wise at such a young age? 00:06:57.400 --> 00:06:59.440 align:center My father says Uncle is a terrible man. 00:07:00.120 --> 00:07:01.560 align:center It's better for you to divorce him 00:07:01.640 --> 00:07:02.840 align:center and avoid all this suffering. 00:07:04.840 --> 00:07:07.240 align:center Divorce has always been seen 00:07:07.400 --> 00:07:09.120 align:center as a trivial matter for a man, 00:07:10.760 --> 00:07:12.080 align:center but for me and Shou Gu, 00:07:13.120 --> 00:07:15.720 align:center it would mean being judged and shamed for the rest of our lives. 00:07:17.080 --> 00:07:18.760 align:center I can't ruin Shou Gu's future. 00:07:21.080 --> 00:07:23.400 align:center Besides, after a divorce, 00:07:24.000 --> 00:07:26.000 align:center the children always stay with the husband's family. 00:07:26.960 --> 00:07:28.200 align:center How could I bear to leave her? 00:07:29.160 --> 00:07:30.680 align:center I'm not afraid of anything, 00:07:31.200 --> 00:07:32.480 align:center except seeing you suffer. 00:07:33.080 --> 00:07:34.280 align:center If you want to leave Father, 00:07:34.600 --> 00:07:35.960 align:center I'll go with you. 00:07:36.280 --> 00:07:37.480 align:center Uncle understands the law. 00:07:37.960 --> 00:07:39.280 align:center He'll surely find a way to help. 00:07:39.440 --> 00:07:40.560 align:center I'll go ask him. 00:07:41.720 --> 00:07:42.720 align:center I'm coming with you. 00:07:45.280 --> 00:07:47.320 align:center Have the kitchen prepare tea to clear the lungs, 00:07:47.840 --> 00:07:49.800 align:center and send someone to dust everything in the room. 00:07:50.080 --> 00:07:52.160 align:center -There mustn't be any trace of dust. -Yes, Master. 00:07:52.840 --> 00:07:53.840 align:center It's all right, Shi Ying. 00:07:54.800 --> 00:07:59.480 align:center My sachet has ephedra to soothe my lungs. 00:07:59.680 --> 00:08:00.920 align:center Just smelling it will help. 00:08:02.680 --> 00:08:06.440 align:center It's just that the magnolias in the courtyard 00:08:06.960 --> 00:08:08.160 align:center are in full bloom. 00:08:10.480 --> 00:08:11.480 align:center Ah, right, 00:08:12.280 --> 00:08:13.440 align:center you can't be around pollen. 00:08:54.720 --> 00:08:57.040 align:center Stop it! Please stop! 00:08:57.200 --> 00:08:59.040 align:center Why are you hitting the flowers? 00:08:59.280 --> 00:09:01.760 align:center Please just stop! Stop! 00:09:01.840 --> 00:09:04.560 align:center -Ignore her. Don't stop. -Stop! Stop! 00:09:06.320 --> 00:09:07.320 align:center Seventh Madam. 00:09:09.160 --> 00:09:11.840 align:center Who told you to hit the flowers? 00:09:12.440 --> 00:09:13.440 align:center It was me. 00:09:19.160 --> 00:09:20.160 align:center Gu Qiu, 00:09:21.440 --> 00:09:23.040 align:center this is all just a temporary measure. 00:09:24.480 --> 00:09:26.400 align:center Is taking a concubine a temporary measure too? 00:09:26.600 --> 00:09:27.600 align:center Or is all this talk 00:09:28.480 --> 00:09:30.320 align:center about heirs and your career just an excuse? 00:09:32.200 --> 00:09:33.720 align:center You really love her, 00:09:34.840 --> 00:09:35.840 align:center don't you? 00:09:38.520 --> 00:09:39.520 align:center Gu Qiu, 00:09:39.680 --> 00:09:40.680 align:center Ying Xue has asthma. 00:09:41.160 --> 00:09:42.400 align:center These flowers have to go. 00:09:45.160 --> 00:09:46.160 align:center They have to go... 00:09:48.840 --> 00:09:49.840 align:center All these years, 00:09:52.840 --> 00:09:55.800 align:center I thought I was the only one who could make you smile, 00:09:57.680 --> 00:10:00.280 align:center the only one who could weigh on your heart. 00:10:01.960 --> 00:10:02.960 align:center I didn't realize 00:10:07.280 --> 00:10:08.960 align:center someone else could too. 00:10:10.720 --> 00:10:11.720 align:center I'm begging you. 00:10:12.560 --> 00:10:13.920 align:center Please, just this once. 00:10:32.360 --> 00:10:33.360 align:center Go ahead. 00:10:35.280 --> 00:10:36.440 align:center Have the flowers removed. 00:10:38.920 --> 00:10:40.680 align:center I knew you'd understand me, Gu Qiu. 00:10:45.280 --> 00:10:46.520 align:center Thank you, Gu Qiu. 00:10:49.720 --> 00:10:51.480 align:center Quickly! Remove the flowers! 00:10:51.560 --> 00:10:52.960 align:center -Yes, Master! -Get rid of them all! 00:10:54.560 --> 00:10:55.560 align:center Remove them. 00:10:56.440 --> 00:10:57.440 align:center Over there too. 00:10:59.320 --> 00:11:00.320 align:center There. 00:11:01.520 --> 00:11:02.560 align:center There, and there. 00:11:11.680 --> 00:11:14.320 align:center The magnolia blooms without leaves. 00:11:14.520 --> 00:11:16.160 align:center When it has leaves, there are no flowers. 00:11:16.560 --> 00:11:18.680 align:center It's a symbol of purity and loyalty, 00:11:19.440 --> 00:11:20.440 align:center just like us. 00:11:21.560 --> 00:11:22.560 align:center For the rest of my life, 00:11:23.480 --> 00:11:25.240 align:center I will love only you. 00:11:28.200 --> 00:11:30.680 align:center Be gentle, don't damage the branches. 00:11:31.280 --> 00:11:33.000 align:center They'll bloom again next year. 00:11:35.480 --> 00:11:38.840 align:center The hibiscus blooms in the morning and falls by dusk. 00:11:39.600 --> 00:11:42.840 align:center How am I any different from the flowers? 00:11:56.080 --> 00:11:58.640 align:center -Have some. -I have no appetite, Zhang Ru. 00:12:00.480 --> 00:12:03.440 align:center You must have some. Dad told me to take good care of you. 00:12:13.360 --> 00:12:14.800 align:center Bad man! We don't want you to push! 00:12:21.440 --> 00:12:24.320 align:center Shou Gu, do you think I'm a bad person too? 00:12:25.960 --> 00:12:27.240 align:center I don't know. 00:12:27.840 --> 00:12:30.560 align:center You made this swing for Mother. 00:12:30.720 --> 00:12:32.840 align:center Does it belong to Young Lady Wang now? 00:12:35.560 --> 00:12:36.560 align:center Never. 00:12:36.720 --> 00:12:37.720 align:center This swing 00:12:38.320 --> 00:12:40.080 align:center will always belong to you and Gu Qiu. 00:12:40.720 --> 00:12:41.920 align:center It won't be for anyone else. 00:12:42.680 --> 00:12:43.960 align:center Zhang Ru and and I are small, 00:12:44.080 --> 00:12:45.840 align:center yet even we find it crowded sitting together. 00:12:45.920 --> 00:12:48.480 align:center How could Mother and Young Lady Wang 00:12:48.840 --> 00:12:50.440 align:center sit on it together and keep it steady? 00:12:53.840 --> 00:12:54.920 align:center I know 00:12:55.440 --> 00:12:57.200 align:center your heart has a place for Mother, 00:12:58.080 --> 00:12:59.960 align:center but it also has a place for Young Lady Wang. 00:13:00.720 --> 00:13:02.480 align:center Have you ever asked yourself 00:13:02.960 --> 00:13:04.680 align:center which weighs more? 00:13:08.200 --> 00:13:10.680 align:center You and your mother 00:13:11.720 --> 00:13:13.280 align:center mean more to me, of course. 00:13:14.360 --> 00:13:17.960 align:center Then why would you rather hurt Mother to keep her? 00:13:18.320 --> 00:13:21.320 align:center Is... Is taking her as a concubine really the only solution? 00:13:23.280 --> 00:13:24.280 align:center Bad man! 00:13:25.480 --> 00:13:26.480 align:center Shou Gu... 00:13:31.360 --> 00:13:32.360 align:center So, you regret it now, 00:13:32.680 --> 00:13:34.360 align:center and you want to settle this with money? 00:13:35.320 --> 00:13:36.680 align:center If I must choose, 00:13:38.200 --> 00:13:41.560 align:center I'd rather not hurt Gu Qiu and Shou Gu. 00:13:43.560 --> 00:13:44.560 align:center It's too late for that. 00:13:45.680 --> 00:13:46.680 align:center Zou Er, tell him. 00:13:46.960 --> 00:13:47.960 align:center Yes, Master. 00:13:48.680 --> 00:13:52.120 align:center Master Shi Ying, the doctor treating Young Lady Wang 00:13:52.560 --> 00:13:54.680 align:center said her fainting wasn't just due to her asthma, 00:13:55.040 --> 00:13:57.440 align:center she's over a month pregnant. 00:14:04.080 --> 00:14:05.560 align:center I've let Gu Qiu down. 00:14:06.680 --> 00:14:07.960 align:center And I've let Ying Xue down too. 00:14:08.240 --> 00:14:09.520 align:center If you don't take her in, 00:14:09.720 --> 00:14:11.680 align:center you'll be dishonoring our father's memory. 00:14:12.480 --> 00:14:13.680 align:center Do you remember the oath 00:14:14.040 --> 00:14:15.560 align:center he forced us to make before he passed? 00:14:16.840 --> 00:14:18.080 align:center To carry on the family line 00:14:19.560 --> 00:14:20.800 align:center and restore the family's honor. 00:14:21.320 --> 00:14:22.640 align:center At least you haven't forgotten. 00:14:23.360 --> 00:14:25.000 align:center I've lost two wives. 00:14:25.800 --> 00:14:28.680 align:center If I wanted to remarry, there aren't any suitable matches left, 00:14:29.200 --> 00:14:30.560 align:center so I've placed my hopes in you. 00:14:31.320 --> 00:14:32.560 align:center I will treat your children 00:14:32.680 --> 00:14:35.080 align:center like my own, and I'll personally see to their upbringing. 00:14:35.560 --> 00:14:36.560 align:center Shi Ying, 00:14:37.160 --> 00:14:38.400 align:center marry her as your concubine. 00:14:38.720 --> 00:14:42.040 align:center This will secure your career and the continuation of our family line. 00:14:45.560 --> 00:14:46.680 align:center Something bad has happened! 00:14:47.840 --> 00:14:48.840 align:center Why are they shouting? 00:14:51.680 --> 00:14:53.040 align:center Fifth Master, Seventh Master, 00:14:53.600 --> 00:14:54.600 align:center Seventh Madam is... 00:15:07.560 --> 00:15:08.560 align:center Madam... 00:15:09.480 --> 00:15:12.080 align:center Why, Mother? 00:15:14.320 --> 00:15:15.320 align:center Madam... 00:15:26.840 --> 00:15:27.840 align:center Pass my order. 00:15:28.040 --> 00:15:29.240 align:center Guard the main gate tightly. 00:15:29.320 --> 00:15:30.680 align:center Not a word of this can get out. 00:15:30.840 --> 00:15:31.840 align:center Yes, Master. 00:15:33.480 --> 00:15:35.040 align:center Master. 00:15:40.840 --> 00:15:42.320 align:center (The pure magnolia blossoms) 00:15:43.200 --> 00:15:44.840 align:center (remain untouched by dust or filth.) 00:15:45.840 --> 00:15:46.840 align:center (Shi Ying,) 00:15:47.840 --> 00:15:49.120 align:center (as flowers bloom,) 00:15:49.560 --> 00:15:50.840 align:center (they must also wither in time.) 00:15:51.560 --> 00:15:53.000 align:center (Our love has run its course,) 00:15:54.320 --> 00:15:55.320 align:center (and I do not blame you.) 00:15:56.480 --> 00:15:59.720 align:center (But the one person I'm worried about, the one person I feel guilty toward,) 00:16:00.920 --> 00:16:02.080 align:center (is Shou Gu.) 00:16:04.280 --> 00:16:06.360 align:center (I want you to protect her for the rest of her life) 00:16:07.160 --> 00:16:08.520 align:center (and never let her be wronged.) 00:16:09.840 --> 00:16:11.160 align:center (You must promise me this.) 00:16:14.240 --> 00:16:16.520 align:center Mother used that to hang herself. 00:16:16.800 --> 00:16:19.400 align:center This was the surprise she prepared for you. 00:16:20.000 --> 00:16:21.840 align:center It's the wine she buried on your wedding day, 00:16:21.920 --> 00:16:24.400 align:center praying for your success in the imperial exams. 00:16:24.840 --> 00:16:28.280 align:center She made your dream her own! 00:16:29.360 --> 00:16:31.080 align:center It's my fault! 00:16:31.560 --> 00:16:33.120 align:center I'm the one to blame! 00:16:33.280 --> 00:16:35.080 align:center I found out that Wang Ying Xue was pregnant, 00:16:35.560 --> 00:16:38.480 align:center and in a moment of anger, I told Madam. 00:16:38.760 --> 00:16:40.760 align:center -I deserve to die! -Silence! 00:16:40.920 --> 00:16:41.920 align:center Utter nonsense! 00:16:42.120 --> 00:16:43.560 align:center She killed herself because she was consumed by jealousy. 00:16:43.640 --> 00:16:44.920 align:center It's a sin of resentment and envy. 00:16:45.000 --> 00:16:47.400 align:center Even in death, she wants to tarnish our family's reputation. 00:16:47.640 --> 00:16:48.640 align:center Listen well, all of you, 00:16:48.920 --> 00:16:50.240 align:center Zhao Gu Qiu died of illness. 00:16:50.960 --> 00:16:53.600 align:center Anyone who dares to spread rumors will be flogged to death! 00:16:54.600 --> 00:16:57.320 align:center You committed adultery and drove your legitimate wife to her death! 00:16:58.760 --> 00:17:00.640 align:center Master Zhao, please calm down... 00:17:00.840 --> 00:17:03.480 align:center Go ahead, celebrate your heir, the security of your powerful ties, 00:17:03.920 --> 00:17:05.880 align:center and marry into prestige atop her corpse! 00:17:08.160 --> 00:17:11.240 align:center I swear I will risk my life, my honor, and everything I have 00:17:11.320 --> 00:17:14.000 align:center to drag you down with me! 00:17:16.000 --> 00:17:17.000 align:center The flowers have fallen. 00:17:18.120 --> 00:17:19.120 align:center Mother, 00:17:19.720 --> 00:17:22.560 align:center I thought you were killed by someone. 00:17:23.520 --> 00:17:26.720 align:center I never expected you would end your own life 00:17:27.800 --> 00:17:29.480 align:center because you couldn't tolerate betrayal. 00:17:31.040 --> 00:17:33.760 align:center (Dou's Residence) 00:18:23.160 --> 00:18:24.160 align:center My condolences. 00:18:24.320 --> 00:18:27.080 align:center Thank you for honoring us with your presence, Lord Li, Lord Liu. 00:18:28.640 --> 00:18:30.400 align:center It's an unfortunate tragedy for our family. 00:18:30.560 --> 00:18:32.640 align:center Madam Zhao was always frail. 00:18:33.320 --> 00:18:35.080 align:center We thought it was just a minor cold, 00:18:35.160 --> 00:18:36.360 align:center but who could have imagined 00:18:36.520 --> 00:18:39.400 align:center it would take her life? 00:18:39.800 --> 00:18:40.800 align:center Mother, 00:18:41.480 --> 00:18:44.520 align:center your flowers will never fall again. 00:19:00.360 --> 00:19:01.800 align:center This place is for close family. 00:19:02.040 --> 00:19:03.160 align:center Are you Zhao or Dou? 00:19:03.480 --> 00:19:04.880 align:center What right do you have to be here? 00:19:16.320 --> 00:19:17.320 align:center Shou Gu, don't cry. 00:19:19.920 --> 00:19:21.160 align:center Your mother has passed, 00:19:21.600 --> 00:19:23.640 align:center but I'll take her place in caring for you. 00:19:24.080 --> 00:19:26.040 align:center I'll treat you as if you were my own. 00:19:31.920 --> 00:19:32.920 align:center Ying Xue! 00:19:33.800 --> 00:19:34.800 align:center Father. 00:19:37.000 --> 00:19:38.480 align:center Now that his wife has died, 00:19:38.720 --> 00:19:40.640 align:center Dou Shi Ying drowns himself in alcohol, 00:19:40.760 --> 00:19:42.760 align:center wallowing in despair and avoiding responsibility. 00:19:42.920 --> 00:19:45.840 align:center (Wang Xing Yi) All the criticism and blame have fallen on you. 00:19:46.320 --> 00:19:48.760 align:center Rather than being belittled in the future, 00:19:49.760 --> 00:19:51.520 align:center you should come home with me. 00:19:51.880 --> 00:19:54.840 align:center A daughter of mine would rather remain unmarried her whole life 00:19:55.800 --> 00:19:56.880 align:center than become a concubine. 00:19:56.960 --> 00:19:58.480 align:center Xing Yi, you misunderstood. 00:19:58.680 --> 00:20:01.280 align:center We've told everyone that Madam Zhao passed away from illness. 00:20:01.600 --> 00:20:03.760 align:center So your daughter would naturally marry in as the legitimate wife. 00:20:03.840 --> 00:20:05.040 align:center We'll observe all the formalities 00:20:05.160 --> 00:20:07.640 align:center and host a grand wedding banquet to ensure her dignity is upheld. 00:20:07.720 --> 00:20:10.280 align:center The child she carries will be the legitimate heir of this family, 00:20:10.600 --> 00:20:12.920 align:center cherished and respected by all. 00:20:13.600 --> 00:20:15.240 align:center This is our family's treasury token, 00:20:15.440 --> 00:20:17.640 align:center which has always been held by the household's matron. 00:20:17.840 --> 00:20:19.240 align:center I now hand it to your daughter. 00:20:19.400 --> 00:20:21.720 align:center She may use it as she wishes for the dowry and wedding preparations. 00:20:21.800 --> 00:20:23.840 align:center Madam Zhao's dowry and personal belongings 00:20:24.000 --> 00:20:25.320 align:center will also be at her disposal. 00:20:28.840 --> 00:20:31.080 align:center Send the inventory list to my room later. 00:20:31.320 --> 00:20:33.280 align:center From now on, I'll review all the gifts 00:20:33.600 --> 00:20:35.680 align:center before they're put into treasury. 00:20:36.040 --> 00:20:37.040 align:center Yes, Madam. 00:20:55.840 --> 00:20:56.880 align:center Master Zhao, 00:20:57.120 --> 00:20:59.080 align:center why didn't you let me know you were coming? 00:20:59.520 --> 00:21:01.520 align:center Perfect timing, I just made some pastries. 00:21:01.680 --> 00:21:03.520 align:center Let Dou Zhao and Zhang Ru have some. 00:21:04.160 --> 00:21:05.680 align:center This was part of Gu Qiu's dowry. 00:21:11.840 --> 00:21:14.000 align:center Aunt always wore that bracelet before she passed. 00:21:15.720 --> 00:21:16.720 align:center Is that so? 00:21:21.520 --> 00:21:23.280 align:center -You... -Listen now, Zhao Si, 00:21:23.560 --> 00:21:25.080 align:center now that Gu Qiu is gone, 00:21:25.160 --> 00:21:27.560 align:center the bond between your family and the Dou family is severed. 00:21:28.480 --> 00:21:31.560 align:center I am now the rightful and legitimate wife. 00:21:32.400 --> 00:21:34.080 align:center You may throw your weight around for now, 00:21:34.360 --> 00:21:35.960 align:center but can you stay here forever? 00:21:37.120 --> 00:21:40.080 align:center Aren't you worried that once you're gone, 00:21:40.520 --> 00:21:42.240 align:center I'll take out all this anger 00:21:42.920 --> 00:21:44.520 align:center on Dou Zhao? 00:21:46.480 --> 00:21:47.480 align:center This is so delicious! 00:21:53.840 --> 00:21:55.800 align:center Have some more if you like them. 00:21:56.600 --> 00:21:59.400 align:center Just tell me what you love to eat, and I'll make it for you. 00:21:59.480 --> 00:22:02.360 align:center Shou Gu is still young and naive, after all. 00:22:03.080 --> 00:22:06.120 align:center Give her a snack, and she forgets everything. 00:22:11.240 --> 00:22:13.720 align:center Young Lady Wang, my stomach hurts so much! 00:22:15.640 --> 00:22:16.640 align:center What's wrong? 00:22:21.120 --> 00:22:22.120 align:center Shou Gu! 00:22:22.240 --> 00:22:24.760 align:center You wicked woman, what did you put in there? 00:22:24.840 --> 00:22:27.040 align:center -Call a doctor! -Go! Go! 00:22:27.120 --> 00:22:28.560 align:center Shou Gu, throw it up. 00:22:30.800 --> 00:22:31.800 align:center Come on. 00:22:39.560 --> 00:22:40.840 align:center Poor girl. 00:22:42.120 --> 00:22:44.000 align:center (Old Madam of Dou family, Madam Cui) You're finally awake. 00:22:44.360 --> 00:22:45.360 align:center Shou Gu, 00:22:45.840 --> 00:22:47.080 align:center this is Grandmother Cui. 00:22:47.560 --> 00:22:48.800 align:center She's your grandmother. 00:22:51.480 --> 00:22:52.680 align:center Grandmother. 00:22:54.360 --> 00:22:55.360 align:center Give me a hand. 00:22:57.520 --> 00:22:59.400 align:center It's no wonder Shou Gu doesn't recognize me. 00:22:59.960 --> 00:23:02.880 align:center I've been estranged from those two ungrateful sons for a long time. 00:23:03.840 --> 00:23:06.560 align:center If not for Gu Qiu writing to me before she hanged herself, 00:23:06.840 --> 00:23:08.120 align:center asking me to look after you, 00:23:08.520 --> 00:23:12.000 align:center who knows how many lives they'd destroy before they would stop? 00:23:13.400 --> 00:23:14.400 align:center Shou Gu, 00:23:14.560 --> 00:23:16.560 align:center what happened today? 00:23:17.360 --> 00:23:19.840 align:center Young Lady Wang broke Mother's dowry. 00:23:20.960 --> 00:23:23.600 align:center She said if I behaved, I could have more pastries. 00:23:24.120 --> 00:23:25.120 align:center The doctor said 00:23:25.560 --> 00:23:27.440 align:center Shou Gu was poisoned with ephedra. 00:23:28.120 --> 00:23:29.560 align:center Ephedra is a powerful drug. 00:23:30.320 --> 00:23:32.200 align:center For Wang Ying Xue, who suffers from asthma, 00:23:32.520 --> 00:23:34.240 align:center ephedra is an essential medicine. 00:23:34.360 --> 00:23:37.080 align:center But for a child, it's a deadly poison. 00:23:37.640 --> 00:23:39.280 align:center She's trying to wipe out all opposition 00:23:39.680 --> 00:23:41.400 align:center and seize the family fortune. 00:23:41.840 --> 00:23:42.840 align:center You wicked woman! 00:23:43.160 --> 00:23:44.800 align:center The evidence and witnesses are all here, 00:23:44.880 --> 00:23:46.000 align:center and you still deny it? 00:23:46.400 --> 00:23:49.040 align:center My daughter would never stoop to such despicable acts. 00:23:49.480 --> 00:23:51.520 align:center Let's sit down and sort out this misunderstanding. 00:23:51.840 --> 00:23:54.400 align:center The law clearly states 00:23:55.160 --> 00:23:57.440 align:center that poisoning with the intent to kill warrants execution. 00:23:57.520 --> 00:23:58.800 align:center Even if the victim survives, 00:23:59.000 --> 00:24:01.520 align:center the perpetrator is to receive 100 lashes and three years of labor. 00:24:01.600 --> 00:24:03.800 align:center All three of our families are officials. 00:24:04.280 --> 00:24:06.120 align:center If this matter reaches His Majesty's ears, 00:24:07.040 --> 00:24:09.600 align:center could it really be dismissed as a mere misunderstanding? 00:24:10.400 --> 00:24:11.400 align:center I didn't poison her! 00:24:12.000 --> 00:24:14.000 align:center I don't know how she ingested ephedra. 00:24:14.560 --> 00:24:16.640 align:center Mother, you've lived on the family estate for so long. 00:24:16.760 --> 00:24:19.920 align:center How can you believe one-sided accusations and condemn me? 00:24:20.200 --> 00:24:21.200 align:center I refuse to accept it. 00:24:21.240 --> 00:24:23.840 align:center Since you address Old Madam as your mother-in-law, 00:24:24.040 --> 00:24:25.560 align:center you shouldn't defy her authority. 00:24:26.240 --> 00:24:28.920 align:center Old Madam is the only daughter of the Cui family of Ji'an. 00:24:29.000 --> 00:24:30.680 align:center Her ancestors were founding contributors to the dynasty, 00:24:30.760 --> 00:24:31.920 align:center honored in the imperial ancestral temple. 00:24:32.040 --> 00:24:33.640 align:center The Cui family has been a lineage of officials for generations. 00:24:33.720 --> 00:24:34.920 align:center Half the court officials today 00:24:35.000 --> 00:24:37.360 align:center were students of the Cui family academy. 00:24:37.560 --> 00:24:39.120 align:center Considering her status and reasoning, 00:24:39.480 --> 00:24:40.840 align:center how could you not accept her judgment? 00:24:40.880 --> 00:24:42.320 align:center Old Madam Dou, you're actually... 00:24:42.400 --> 00:24:43.560 align:center My surname is Cui. 00:24:43.960 --> 00:24:45.360 align:center I do not take my husband's surname. 00:24:45.560 --> 00:24:46.560 align:center Please sit. 00:24:46.920 --> 00:24:48.360 align:center If this matter reaches the court, 00:24:49.000 --> 00:24:50.560 align:center we all know how it will turn out. 00:24:50.960 --> 00:24:51.960 align:center Lord Wang, 00:24:52.160 --> 00:24:53.760 align:center you once risked demotion 00:24:54.280 --> 00:24:56.880 align:center to speak out against the horse market ban, 00:24:57.160 --> 00:24:58.880 align:center earning a reputation for integrity. 00:24:59.120 --> 00:25:00.920 align:center But now, fresh from reinstatement, 00:25:01.320 --> 00:25:03.200 align:center you allow your daughter to commit such crimes. 00:25:03.320 --> 00:25:05.280 align:center What do you think His Majesty will make of this? 00:25:05.320 --> 00:25:06.680 align:center Forcing a marriage, 00:25:06.800 --> 00:25:08.520 align:center driving the legitimate wife to hang herself, 00:25:08.600 --> 00:25:11.560 align:center poisoning the legitimate daughter, and seizing the family fortune, 00:25:12.320 --> 00:25:15.760 align:center how do you propose we settle these three charges? 00:25:18.800 --> 00:25:20.520 align:center How do you think 00:25:21.520 --> 00:25:23.040 align:center we should settle it, Old Madam Cui? 00:25:25.880 --> 00:25:28.760 align:center If ours and Wang families can settle this privately, 00:25:29.360 --> 00:25:32.240 align:center it would provide Shou Gu with real security. 00:25:32.800 --> 00:25:34.080 align:center I've instructed my son 00:25:34.160 --> 00:25:35.520 align:center to transfer all of Gu Qiu's dowry 00:25:35.600 --> 00:25:37.880 align:center to Dou Zhao, 00:25:38.080 --> 00:25:40.120 align:center amounting to 3,000 taels. 00:25:40.400 --> 00:25:42.240 align:center Your family should compensate the same amount. 00:25:42.320 --> 00:25:43.320 align:center That's impossible. 00:25:43.800 --> 00:25:45.560 align:center Your family was a family of merchants. 00:25:45.880 --> 00:25:47.360 align:center You can afford 3,000 to 5,000 taels, 00:25:48.280 --> 00:25:49.960 align:center but my father has just been reinstated. 00:25:50.280 --> 00:25:52.440 align:center Where could he possibly find that kind of money? 00:25:52.520 --> 00:25:54.080 align:center Well, he can borrow from others. 00:25:54.280 --> 00:25:56.480 align:center Over the years, my sister must have given you 00:25:56.560 --> 00:25:58.320 align:center at least a hundred taels. 00:25:58.840 --> 00:26:01.400 align:center With your father as a fourth-ranked official, 00:26:01.760 --> 00:26:03.840 align:center borrowing a thousand taels shouldn't be hard. 00:26:04.400 --> 00:26:05.400 align:center As for the rest, 00:26:06.320 --> 00:26:07.320 align:center draft a promissory note. 00:26:07.440 --> 00:26:10.240 align:center Whether it's five or ten years, you will pay it off one day. 00:26:10.520 --> 00:26:12.040 align:center But Shou Gu is so young. 00:26:12.400 --> 00:26:14.040 align:center How could she manage all this wealth? 00:26:14.280 --> 00:26:16.720 align:center That's not your concern, Young Lady Wang. 00:26:17.840 --> 00:26:19.840 align:center The victim here is Shou Gu. 00:26:20.320 --> 00:26:22.040 align:center Our opinions don't count. 00:26:24.960 --> 00:26:26.280 align:center Go and ask her 00:26:26.800 --> 00:26:28.000 align:center what she thinks. 00:26:28.720 --> 00:26:29.720 align:center Yes, Old Madam. 00:26:37.640 --> 00:26:39.760 align:center The real victim here wasn't me, 00:26:40.520 --> 00:26:41.520 align:center it was my mother. 00:26:43.080 --> 00:26:45.040 align:center She died with a broken heart. 00:26:46.680 --> 00:26:48.640 align:center If Young Lady Wang marries into our family 00:26:49.080 --> 00:26:50.520 align:center and I'm forced to call her mother, 00:26:52.000 --> 00:26:53.880 align:center how could my own mother ever rest in peace? 00:26:54.240 --> 00:26:55.560 align:center Shou Gu wants Young Lady Wang 00:26:56.000 --> 00:26:59.920 align:center to kneel in mourning for her mother for three years and not marry into 00:27:00.600 --> 00:27:02.720 align:center -the Dou family during that time. -That won't do, Mother. 00:27:02.840 --> 00:27:04.120 align:center If we don't take her in officially, 00:27:04.200 --> 00:27:06.640 align:center how can her child be considered legitimate? 00:27:06.800 --> 00:27:09.560 align:center We can't allow our bloodline to be left outside. 00:27:09.720 --> 00:27:10.800 align:center If it's about legitimacy, 00:27:11.480 --> 00:27:13.280 align:center a formal remarriage document will suffice. 00:27:13.560 --> 00:27:15.240 align:center But I'm carrying your family's child. 00:27:15.920 --> 00:27:17.280 align:center What if kneeling harms the baby? 00:27:17.720 --> 00:27:19.480 align:center After the new wife enters the household, 00:27:19.600 --> 00:27:21.880 align:center she will go to the Youmin Temple for three years 00:27:22.600 --> 00:27:23.760 align:center of reflection and repentance. 00:27:23.920 --> 00:27:26.120 align:center Let's ensure no bad karma falls on the child. 00:27:26.360 --> 00:27:27.520 align:center Once the baby is born, 00:27:28.400 --> 00:27:31.320 align:center they will be raised by a nanny with teaching experience. 00:27:33.760 --> 00:27:36.040 align:center Shi Ying, say something! 00:27:36.840 --> 00:27:38.320 align:center I've wronged Gu Qiu. 00:27:39.880 --> 00:27:41.600 align:center I'm willing to observe mourning for her 00:27:41.880 --> 00:27:43.240 align:center and separate from my new wife. 00:27:44.400 --> 00:27:46.520 align:center Ying Xue will go to the Youmin Temple, 00:27:47.160 --> 00:27:48.960 align:center and I will move into Gu Qiu's room, 00:27:49.640 --> 00:27:52.480 align:center offering incense and reciting prayers for her day and night. 00:27:58.280 --> 00:27:59.320 align:center I'm sorry. 00:27:59.840 --> 00:28:01.320 align:center I've learned my lesson now. 00:28:01.840 --> 00:28:03.120 align:center We'll pay the compensation. 00:28:03.600 --> 00:28:07.000 align:center Please spare my child. 00:28:51.720 --> 00:28:53.040 align:center I'm sorry, Shou Gu. 00:28:54.000 --> 00:28:55.840 align:center I won't be able to watch you grow up. 00:28:57.520 --> 00:28:59.800 align:center Mother, I don't blame you. 00:29:05.120 --> 00:29:06.680 align:center I never wanted to be your burden 00:29:08.080 --> 00:29:09.720 align:center or watch you suffer for life. 00:29:11.400 --> 00:29:12.400 align:center Don't worry. 00:29:14.080 --> 00:29:15.720 align:center I'll take care of myself. 00:29:36.400 --> 00:29:37.560 align:center The magnolias have fallen. 00:29:38.720 --> 00:29:39.960 align:center The swing is covered in dust. 00:29:41.520 --> 00:29:42.920 align:center This is no longer your home, 00:29:44.320 --> 00:29:45.320 align:center nor is it mine. 00:29:47.560 --> 00:29:48.560 align:center Mother, 00:29:49.520 --> 00:29:50.960 align:center if your spirit lingers, 00:29:52.400 --> 00:29:54.040 align:center may you soar beyond these high walls, 00:29:54.840 --> 00:29:55.840 align:center past this residence, 00:29:57.160 --> 00:29:58.400 align:center and find freedom and peace. 00:30:08.840 --> 00:30:09.840 align:center Madam. 00:30:10.240 --> 00:30:11.240 align:center Good. 00:30:12.440 --> 00:30:14.120 align:center (Zhending, Cui Family Estate) 00:30:14.160 --> 00:30:15.320 align:center It's such a beautiful estate. 00:30:23.240 --> 00:30:24.320 align:center Greetings, Old Madam. 00:30:24.360 --> 00:30:26.480 align:center -An Su, greet Old Madam. -Greetings, Madam. 00:30:27.880 --> 00:30:29.600 align:center This is Madam Miao and Mister Miao, 00:30:30.120 --> 00:30:31.160 align:center neighbors from the estate. 00:30:34.160 --> 00:30:35.280 align:center Entering a new home, 00:30:35.400 --> 00:30:36.840 align:center we must first dust ourselves off. 00:30:37.640 --> 00:30:39.080 align:center Sweeping away the past 00:30:39.320 --> 00:30:40.600 align:center brings in blessings and fortune. 00:30:41.320 --> 00:30:42.360 align:center This is yours. 00:30:43.320 --> 00:30:44.600 align:center And this is yours. 00:30:45.280 --> 00:30:46.720 align:center And one for you. 00:30:48.840 --> 00:30:51.000 align:center Grandmother, what flower is this? 00:30:51.600 --> 00:30:52.600 align:center Nine-Layered Purple, 00:30:53.400 --> 00:30:55.320 align:center a humble wildflower. 00:30:55.880 --> 00:30:57.760 align:center Peonies and orchids are delicate and beautiful, 00:30:57.840 --> 00:30:59.640 align:center but they compete for nutrients, 00:31:00.120 --> 00:31:02.800 align:center can't survive heavy rain and drought, 00:31:03.720 --> 00:31:05.320 align:center and constantly need human care. 00:31:05.720 --> 00:31:07.320 align:center Wildflowers are different. 00:31:07.840 --> 00:31:09.480 align:center They thrive without perfect conditions. 00:31:09.640 --> 00:31:13.160 align:center Scatter their seeds, and they'll cover the mountains in bloom. 00:31:18.560 --> 00:31:21.720 align:center That day, you took the poison yourself, didn't you? 00:31:22.960 --> 00:31:24.320 align:center Ephedra is bitter. 00:31:24.400 --> 00:31:25.840 align:center At a toxic dose, 00:31:26.640 --> 00:31:28.880 align:center it's so bitter that it's nearly impossible to swallow. 00:31:31.240 --> 00:31:32.520 align:center That child is so precocious. 00:31:33.400 --> 00:31:34.760 align:center She must hate me to the core. 00:31:35.640 --> 00:31:37.560 align:center She will always disobey me in the future. 00:31:38.040 --> 00:31:39.040 align:center I must get rid of her. 00:31:39.400 --> 00:31:41.320 align:center Young Lady, don't you have ephedra on you? 00:31:42.000 --> 00:31:43.840 align:center That substance is harmless for adults, 00:31:44.000 --> 00:31:45.720 align:center but children mustn't come into contact with it. 00:31:45.800 --> 00:31:47.640 align:center Even in tiny doses, 00:31:47.720 --> 00:31:48.800 align:center long-term use 00:31:49.120 --> 00:31:52.200 align:center will lead to depleted vitality and weakened lungs. 00:31:53.360 --> 00:31:56.480 align:center And I'll appear to be caring for her 00:31:56.720 --> 00:31:57.880 align:center with utmost devotion. 00:31:58.720 --> 00:32:02.360 align:center People will see me as a virtuous wife. 00:32:10.560 --> 00:32:12.520 align:center Wang Ying Xue was trying to back me into a corner. 00:32:12.840 --> 00:32:14.640 align:center Rather than waiting for her to make her move, 00:32:15.560 --> 00:32:17.360 align:center I chose to take the poison first 00:32:17.840 --> 00:32:19.000 align:center to protect myself. 00:32:22.240 --> 00:32:23.240 align:center Grandmother, 00:32:23.400 --> 00:32:24.920 align:center I am not an evil person. 00:32:25.840 --> 00:32:27.120 align:center To those who are kind to me, 00:32:27.360 --> 00:32:28.800 align:center I would risk my life to repay them. 00:32:29.520 --> 00:32:30.720 align:center But for grievances and wrongs, 00:32:30.800 --> 00:32:32.320 align:center even if it costs me dearly, 00:32:32.800 --> 00:32:34.400 align:center I will ensure they're repaid in full. 00:32:39.480 --> 00:32:40.480 align:center Shou Gu, 00:32:42.080 --> 00:32:43.080 align:center remember this, 00:32:45.160 --> 00:32:47.840 align:center I forbid you to do such things again. 00:32:48.520 --> 00:32:50.000 align:center I brought you out of the residence 00:32:50.320 --> 00:32:52.480 align:center because I value your maturity and intelligence. 00:32:53.200 --> 00:32:55.120 align:center If you limit yourself to petty family rivalries, 00:32:55.200 --> 00:32:56.800 align:center you'll grow twisted and narrow-minded, 00:32:57.040 --> 00:32:59.560 align:center confined to scheming over a mere patch of land. 00:32:59.600 --> 00:33:01.840 align:center You will lose sight of the vastness of the world. 00:33:02.720 --> 00:33:06.040 align:center I want your brilliance to reach beyond the household, 00:33:06.640 --> 00:33:08.280 align:center to the mountains, rivers, and lakes, 00:33:08.600 --> 00:33:10.280 align:center and even to the country and its people. 00:33:10.360 --> 00:33:13.280 align:center That is where you will truly shine. 00:33:17.320 --> 00:33:18.880 align:center This is my mother's bracelet. 00:33:19.200 --> 00:33:22.880 align:center Even something broken can shine again. 00:33:23.680 --> 00:33:24.680 align:center Grandmother, 00:33:25.240 --> 00:33:26.240 align:center I understand. 00:33:27.120 --> 00:33:28.160 align:center Coming to this estate, 00:33:28.400 --> 00:33:30.880 align:center I've realized I don't want to be a delicate, sheltered flower, 00:33:31.320 --> 00:33:34.920 align:center but to become as resilient as the Nine-Layered Purple, 00:33:35.200 --> 00:33:36.840 align:center able to withstand wind and rain. 00:33:37.720 --> 00:33:38.840 align:center From now on, 00:33:39.400 --> 00:33:41.840 align:center I will live well for myself. 00:33:47.600 --> 00:33:49.120 align:center I studied under learned masters 00:33:49.640 --> 00:33:51.520 align:center (Chen Qu Shui) to gain knowledge of the world. 00:33:56.000 --> 00:33:57.000 align:center Will you pay or not? 00:33:57.680 --> 00:33:58.680 align:center Do you hear me? 00:34:00.240 --> 00:34:01.240 align:center They deserve it! 00:34:14.840 --> 00:34:17.760 align:center (Su Lan, Su Xin) I recruited skilled maidservants for protection. 00:34:23.800 --> 00:34:26.720 align:center Finally, I established myself in the world of commerce, 00:34:27.200 --> 00:34:28.680 align:center achieving success in every venture. 00:34:54.400 --> 00:34:57.720 align:center (Futing, Duke of Ding's Army Camp) 00:35:03.200 --> 00:35:04.200 align:center Run! 00:35:05.800 --> 00:35:06.800 align:center Next! 00:35:10.400 --> 00:35:12.280 align:center (Ding) 00:35:19.320 --> 00:35:20.320 align:center Grand General, 00:35:20.440 --> 00:35:22.320 align:center -a child has come to enlist. -Faster! 00:35:22.680 --> 00:35:23.880 align:center We guard the border 00:35:24.000 --> 00:35:26.240 align:center so that children can stay safe at home, 00:35:26.320 --> 00:35:27.320 align:center far from disaster. 00:35:27.600 --> 00:35:29.680 align:center I never take in children here. Send him away. 00:35:30.240 --> 00:35:31.320 align:center (Yan Chao Qing) Grand General, 00:35:31.440 --> 00:35:33.120 align:center please turn around and take a look first. 00:35:34.840 --> 00:35:36.320 align:center (Duke of Ding, Jiang Mei Sun) 00:35:36.440 --> 00:35:37.440 align:center Catch up! 00:35:37.720 --> 00:35:39.320 align:center (Young Song Mo) Grand General! 00:35:49.280 --> 00:35:50.440 align:center You've come to enlist, huh? 00:35:51.480 --> 00:35:52.800 align:center Have you lost your mind, brat? 00:35:53.600 --> 00:35:55.120 align:center Running away from home to join the army, huh? 00:35:55.240 --> 00:35:57.280 align:center -Stop right there! -Calm down now, Uncle. 00:35:57.400 --> 00:35:58.520 align:center I didn't run away from home. 00:35:58.640 --> 00:35:59.840 align:center I'm here to enlist for real. 00:35:59.920 --> 00:36:01.680 align:center You think enlisting is some kind of game? 00:36:01.840 --> 00:36:03.160 align:center Stop right there, do you hear me? 00:36:03.480 --> 00:36:06.520 align:center Kid, if your father finds out, he'll ground you for a year, 00:36:06.600 --> 00:36:07.920 align:center and I won't speak up for you. 00:36:08.040 --> 00:36:09.160 align:center You've got two choices now. 00:36:09.280 --> 00:36:12.040 align:center Either leave on your own, or I'll have you escorted back. Your choice. 00:36:12.120 --> 00:36:13.800 align:center You'll have to catch me first. 00:36:13.960 --> 00:36:15.360 align:center You're messing with me, aren't you? 00:36:15.440 --> 00:36:17.480 align:center -Somebody, tie him up! -Yes, sir! 00:36:28.280 --> 00:36:30.880 align:center Grand General, we might need more men to tie him down. 00:36:32.000 --> 00:36:33.840 align:center I didn't think the brat could run this fast. 00:36:35.800 --> 00:36:37.840 align:center What are you standing here for? Go help them! 00:36:37.920 --> 00:36:38.920 align:center Yes, sir! 00:36:44.280 --> 00:36:45.280 align:center Young Master. 00:36:47.120 --> 00:36:49.880 align:center You're not even as tall as a pirate's blade, 00:36:50.240 --> 00:36:52.600 align:center and you're already thinking about killing pirates? 00:36:53.640 --> 00:36:54.640 align:center Isn't that a little... 00:36:55.840 --> 00:36:57.320 align:center Now, am I good enough to kill them? 00:36:58.520 --> 00:37:00.560 align:center Extraordinary! Truly extraordinary! 00:37:00.640 --> 00:37:01.640 align:center Outrageous! 00:37:03.800 --> 00:37:04.800 align:center Get down! 00:37:07.240 --> 00:37:08.240 align:center Hand me the blade. 00:37:12.560 --> 00:37:14.000 align:center Think you're so capable, do you? 00:37:14.360 --> 00:37:15.360 align:center Take him back home. 00:37:15.840 --> 00:37:16.840 align:center Uncle! 00:37:17.280 --> 00:37:18.680 align:center If you turn me away too, 00:37:19.400 --> 00:37:21.040 align:center I'll truly have nowhere to go. 00:37:29.320 --> 00:37:30.800 align:center Got kicked out by your father again? 00:37:33.680 --> 00:37:35.040 align:center Unbelievable. 00:37:36.120 --> 00:37:37.840 align:center What kind of father is Song Yi Chun? 00:37:38.840 --> 00:37:42.680 align:center Uncle... No, Grand General, please take me in. 00:37:43.440 --> 00:37:46.280 align:center I'm ready to go through fire and water without hesitation! 00:37:48.280 --> 00:37:49.600 align:center Go through fire and water? 00:37:50.200 --> 00:37:51.360 align:center Do you even know how to start a fire and cook? 00:37:51.480 --> 00:37:52.480 align:center A cook? 00:37:52.760 --> 00:37:54.200 align:center -I want another role. -If you don't want it, go now. 00:37:54.280 --> 00:37:55.640 align:center I'll do it! I'll do it! 00:37:55.880 --> 00:37:56.880 align:center Get to work then. 00:37:57.800 --> 00:37:59.840 align:center Jiang Mei Sun! Just you wait! 00:38:00.000 --> 00:38:02.240 align:center One day, I'll rise from a cook 00:38:02.680 --> 00:38:04.320 align:center to a Grand General who protects the nation! 00:38:40.320 --> 00:38:41.320 align:center Give it to me! 00:38:46.360 --> 00:38:47.360 align:center Come! 00:38:49.280 --> 00:38:50.280 align:center Come on. 00:38:53.160 --> 00:38:54.160 align:center Look! 00:39:09.320 --> 00:39:11.560 align:center Zhao, you've sold off more than half of your cloth shops 00:39:11.640 --> 00:39:13.360 align:center and rouge stores in Guandong, 00:39:13.680 --> 00:39:16.280 align:center only to buy dozens of silk factories and tea estates in Futing. 00:39:16.360 --> 00:39:18.120 align:center (Miao An Su) Although the prices were low, 00:39:18.320 --> 00:39:20.240 align:center these are tough businesses with thin margins. 00:39:20.640 --> 00:39:23.280 align:center On top of that, Futing has been plagued by pirates for years. 00:39:23.800 --> 00:39:25.600 align:center Nine out of ten trade ships are looted. 00:39:25.960 --> 00:39:27.360 align:center Isn't this too risky? 00:39:30.240 --> 00:39:32.360 align:center We've reclaimed all the islands along the coast. 00:39:33.360 --> 00:39:34.360 align:center Cherish this, 00:39:34.720 --> 00:39:36.360 align:center there aren't many battles left to fight. 00:39:49.320 --> 00:39:51.400 align:center The court assigned Duke of Ding, Jiang Mei Sun, 00:39:51.600 --> 00:39:52.920 align:center to pacify the seas years ago. 00:39:53.400 --> 00:39:55.440 align:center The pirate chaos will soon be quelled, and maritime trade will flourish. 00:39:55.920 --> 00:39:58.760 align:center These seemingly insignificant silks and teas 00:39:58.920 --> 00:40:00.800 align:center will one day be worth more than gold. 00:40:00.880 --> 00:40:03.040 align:center That's why we must secure these businesses now. 00:40:03.320 --> 00:40:05.200 align:center They'll bring exponential returns later. 00:40:19.720 --> 00:40:21.400 align:center Is everything that happened in my dream 00:40:21.920 --> 00:40:23.200 align:center destined to come true? 00:40:28.320 --> 00:40:29.320 align:center Little one, 00:40:29.680 --> 00:40:30.800 align:center why are you so upset? 00:40:31.320 --> 00:40:33.960 align:center Someone actually believed a story I made up. 00:40:35.440 --> 00:40:37.760 align:center So, how do you like my tale? 00:40:38.760 --> 00:40:39.760 align:center You wrote it? 00:40:41.480 --> 00:40:42.800 align:center I've tried my best, 00:40:43.240 --> 00:40:44.800 align:center yet why couldn't I change the outcome? 00:40:45.320 --> 00:40:47.800 align:center Throw a stone into the river. 00:40:49.880 --> 00:40:50.880 align:center Throw a big one, 00:40:51.720 --> 00:40:53.360 align:center so big you can't even lift it. 00:40:57.960 --> 00:40:58.960 align:center See, 00:40:59.120 --> 00:41:00.760 align:center no matter how big the stone, 00:41:00.960 --> 00:41:02.920 align:center it only creates ripples for a moment. 00:41:03.640 --> 00:41:06.280 align:center You can't change the river's course. 00:41:06.680 --> 00:41:10.760 align:center Then how can I change the river's course? 00:41:10.840 --> 00:41:11.840 align:center If one day, 00:41:12.240 --> 00:41:14.440 align:center you possess the strength 00:41:14.520 --> 00:41:16.600 align:center to collapse the towering mountains 00:41:17.040 --> 00:41:18.160 align:center before you, 00:41:19.440 --> 00:41:23.280 align:center then the river's course will change. 00:41:37.520 --> 00:41:38.520 align:center Fate 00:41:38.920 --> 00:41:40.200 align:center is not unchangeable, 00:41:40.880 --> 00:41:41.880 align:center nor is it insurmountable. 00:41:43.160 --> 00:41:44.160 align:center This time, 00:41:44.800 --> 00:41:47.160 align:center I will gain the strength to topple mountains. 00:41:50.120 --> 00:41:51.120 align:center I will take control 00:41:51.800 --> 00:41:52.920 align:center of my destiny. 00:41:58.720 --> 00:41:59.920 align:center (Dou Shi Shu) 00:42:00.240 --> 00:42:01.240 align:center (Wang Ying Xue) 00:42:17.120 --> 00:42:19.320 align:center (Song Mo) 00:42:33.880 --> 00:42:37.040 align:center This family banquet is set up just to let Grand Secretary Wu's eldest grandson 00:42:37.120 --> 00:42:38.760 align:center meet the Dou family daughters, isn't it? 00:42:39.320 --> 00:42:41.320 align:center Song Yi Chun delayed critical military operations. 00:42:41.600 --> 00:42:42.800 align:center Add 30 lashes. 00:42:42.920 --> 00:42:45.720 align:center Grand General, please let me take the punishment in my father's place. 00:42:45.840 --> 00:42:47.640 align:center An outstanding son with a useless father! 00:42:47.800 --> 00:42:48.760 align:center How foolish!