WEBVTT 00:00:07.080 --> 00:00:09.600 align:center (Three years later, Spring of the 24th year of Chengping reign) 00:00:18.000 --> 00:00:19.160 align:center Pirates! Pirates! 00:00:21.800 --> 00:00:24.800 align:center Please spare us! They will kill us if you steal everything away! 00:00:32.640 --> 00:00:34.920 align:center Song Mo? This is a trap! 00:01:28.760 --> 00:01:29.760 align:center Tell us. 00:01:30.480 --> 00:01:31.480 align:center Where is your base? 00:01:37.120 --> 00:01:38.120 align:center Song Mo, 00:01:38.280 --> 00:01:41.000 align:center do you think capturing me will lead you to our base? 00:01:41.120 --> 00:01:43.320 align:center We people of Dongyu will never yield! 00:01:49.280 --> 00:01:50.280 align:center Is it 00:01:51.120 --> 00:01:52.120 align:center South Mountain? 00:01:53.840 --> 00:01:57.400 align:center Tongzhou? Jilang? Zhanshui? Shan Island? 00:01:57.760 --> 00:01:59.280 align:center Meizhou? Feiyu Island? 00:01:59.560 --> 00:02:01.320 align:center Or Zhou Island? 00:02:06.280 --> 00:02:07.280 align:center So it's in Zhou Island. 00:02:10.520 --> 00:02:13.920 align:center Song Mo, you tricked me! You won't get your way! 00:02:14.040 --> 00:02:15.440 align:center General, it's all thanks to your brilliance. 00:02:15.560 --> 00:02:18.800 align:center Because of that darn rations officer's delay, we nearly starve! 00:02:18.920 --> 00:02:21.760 align:center -If you hadn't baited the pirates... -Lu Ming, shut up. 00:02:21.800 --> 00:02:24.000 align:center -...we'd still be starving. -Stop! Get on your knees! 00:02:24.440 --> 00:02:25.960 align:center General, my brother is new here. 00:02:26.360 --> 00:02:28.720 align:center He doesn't know the rations officer is your father, Duke of Ying. 00:02:28.800 --> 00:02:30.960 align:center -Please forgive him. -His anger is understandable. 00:02:31.160 --> 00:02:32.160 align:center I'm angry too. 00:02:32.600 --> 00:02:33.960 align:center If you want to complain, go ahead. 00:02:34.080 --> 00:02:35.080 align:center I won't hear a thing. 00:02:38.840 --> 00:02:40.560 align:center At least we didn't ruin Grand General's plan. 00:02:40.640 --> 00:02:43.280 align:center Taking down five pirate ships should count as a decent result. 00:02:43.720 --> 00:02:44.840 align:center Five ships aren't enough. 00:02:48.280 --> 00:02:50.320 align:center -Duke of Ding's Army, hear my command! -Yes, General! 00:02:50.400 --> 00:02:52.480 align:center Everyone, eat quickly. 00:02:52.880 --> 00:02:56.120 align:center In half an hour, change into pirates' clothes and head for Zhou Island. 00:02:56.680 --> 00:02:58.880 align:center To secure ten years of peace for the people of Futing, 00:02:59.240 --> 00:03:02.400 align:center we must make history with this battle! 00:03:02.600 --> 00:03:05.000 align:center For the homeland! For a place in history! 00:03:05.120 --> 00:03:07.640 align:center For the homeland! For a place in history! 00:03:27.320 --> 00:03:30.080 align:center (Futing) 00:03:37.760 --> 00:03:39.080 align:center Attack! Attack! 00:03:39.920 --> 00:03:42.400 align:center Duke of Ding's Army will win! Duke of Ding's Army will win! 00:03:45.280 --> 00:03:46.280 align:center It's Duke of Ding's Army! 00:03:47.080 --> 00:03:53.280 align:center They're back! 00:03:55.280 --> 00:03:56.760 align:center Duke of Ding's Army is back! 00:04:06.400 --> 00:04:08.080 align:center -Did you win? -We did. 00:04:08.160 --> 00:04:09.200 align:center A great victory at Zhou Island. 00:04:09.320 --> 00:04:12.080 align:center With the sea now pacified, the goods will become valuable again. 00:04:13.040 --> 00:04:14.640 align:center Zheng, aren't we impressive? 00:04:15.400 --> 00:04:17.400 align:center Don't be dramatic. This is nothing. 00:04:17.640 --> 00:04:18.880 align:center There's more glory to come. 00:04:18.960 --> 00:04:21.560 align:center Long live Duke of Ding's Army! 00:04:21.640 --> 00:04:23.120 align:center All thanks to Duke of Ding's Army! 00:04:23.600 --> 00:04:25.400 align:center Lu Zheng, have the Ministry of War send 00:04:25.560 --> 00:04:27.280 align:center the captured women and children back to Dongyu. 00:04:27.400 --> 00:04:28.760 align:center Any soldier found abusing children 00:04:29.960 --> 00:04:32.080 align:center or assaulting women will be executed. 00:04:32.160 --> 00:04:33.160 align:center Yes, General! 00:04:35.400 --> 00:04:36.400 align:center Congratulations, General. 00:04:36.840 --> 00:04:38.760 align:center News of your attack on Zhou Island 00:04:38.960 --> 00:04:40.040 align:center has reached the camp. 00:04:40.720 --> 00:04:41.880 align:center The Duke has also arrived. 00:04:42.640 --> 00:04:43.640 align:center My father is here? 00:04:47.600 --> 00:04:48.600 align:center Jiang Mei Sun! 00:04:49.520 --> 00:04:50.680 align:center (Song Yi Chun) The delay in the delivery 00:04:50.760 --> 00:04:52.360 align:center was because our troops encountered bandits along the way. 00:04:52.440 --> 00:04:55.040 align:center We were eliminating threats to the people. How is that a crime? 00:04:55.320 --> 00:04:56.320 align:center Release me! 00:04:56.960 --> 00:04:58.160 align:center -Release me! -Grand General. 00:04:58.640 --> 00:04:59.960 align:center He's Duke of Ying 00:05:00.720 --> 00:05:01.720 align:center and your brother-in-law. 00:05:01.960 --> 00:05:02.960 align:center Listen up, everyone! 00:05:05.280 --> 00:05:07.520 align:center Song Yi Chun has delayed military operations 00:05:09.280 --> 00:05:11.080 align:center and spoken outrageously. 00:05:12.200 --> 00:05:13.480 align:center As per military law, 00:05:14.200 --> 00:05:15.440 align:center 30 lashes. 00:05:16.200 --> 00:05:17.880 align:center -Carry out the punishment. -Yes, sir! 00:05:17.960 --> 00:05:19.400 align:center How dare you! I am a duke of the highest rank, 00:05:19.480 --> 00:05:20.960 align:center with generations of merit behind me. 00:05:21.040 --> 00:05:23.160 align:center Without an imperial decree, who dares to touch me? 00:05:27.840 --> 00:05:28.840 align:center Grand General! 00:05:42.880 --> 00:05:43.880 align:center Yan Tang. 00:05:46.960 --> 00:05:49.280 align:center Grand General, I have completed the mission successfully. 00:05:49.400 --> 00:05:50.400 align:center Please get up. 00:05:51.400 --> 00:05:52.400 align:center Despite the shortage of rations, 00:05:52.440 --> 00:05:53.680 align:center we managed to dismantle the Dongyu forces, 00:05:53.800 --> 00:05:55.240 align:center thanks to you using yourself as bait. 00:05:55.320 --> 00:05:57.040 align:center Well done! This is a great achievement. 00:05:58.080 --> 00:05:59.080 align:center Grand General, 00:05:59.320 --> 00:06:01.400 align:center not only did General destroy ten enemy ships, 00:06:01.680 --> 00:06:03.560 align:center he also used their fleet to seize Zhou Island. 00:06:03.640 --> 00:06:05.640 align:center The last pirate stronghold has been wiped out. 00:06:06.280 --> 00:06:08.440 align:center The decades-long mission to secure the borders and seas 00:06:08.640 --> 00:06:09.680 align:center has finally succeeded. 00:06:09.760 --> 00:06:12.200 align:center Bravo! Bravo! 00:06:15.640 --> 00:06:16.640 align:center Oh, you, 00:06:16.840 --> 00:06:18.400 align:center you were short on supplies 00:06:19.040 --> 00:06:20.040 align:center and outnumbered. 00:06:20.720 --> 00:06:22.320 align:center Were you trying to get yourself killed? 00:06:23.880 --> 00:06:25.560 align:center It's thanks to the delay of the rations 00:06:25.840 --> 00:06:28.280 align:center that my son had the drive to fight against the odds. 00:06:28.480 --> 00:06:29.480 align:center Yan Tang, 00:06:29.680 --> 00:06:30.920 align:center reason with your uncle for me. 00:06:31.600 --> 00:06:32.880 align:center I'm tired of arguing with him. 00:06:32.960 --> 00:06:33.960 align:center How absurd! 00:06:34.560 --> 00:06:37.480 align:center Discipline comes first in the army. There's no room for family sentiment! 00:06:37.920 --> 00:06:40.240 align:center You lost sight of the bigger picture, chasing credit for taking out bandits 00:06:40.320 --> 00:06:41.600 align:center and delaying the delivery by ten days! 00:06:41.760 --> 00:06:44.280 align:center If Yan Tang hadn't taken the initiative, we would have lost this battle! 00:06:44.360 --> 00:06:45.560 align:center And you still dare to justify yourself? 00:06:45.640 --> 00:06:47.880 align:center Bring me the whip! I'll punish him personally! 00:06:47.960 --> 00:06:49.800 align:center -You wouldn't dare! -Watch me! 00:06:49.880 --> 00:06:50.880 align:center Grand General, 00:06:51.200 --> 00:06:52.880 align:center it's true Duke of Ying is guilty of delay, 00:06:53.760 --> 00:06:56.320 align:center but doing nothing and watching my aging father suffer punishment 00:06:56.960 --> 00:06:58.160 align:center makes me an unfilial son. 00:06:59.160 --> 00:07:00.440 align:center 30 lashes would cripple him, 00:07:01.080 --> 00:07:02.080 align:center if not kill him. 00:07:02.520 --> 00:07:03.640 align:center I did nothing wrong! 00:07:05.400 --> 00:07:06.560 align:center I beg you, Grand General! 00:07:06.960 --> 00:07:08.520 align:center In light of the victory at Zhou Island, 00:07:09.080 --> 00:07:11.520 align:center allow me to take his punishment. 00:07:12.280 --> 00:07:13.320 align:center It upholds military law 00:07:13.960 --> 00:07:15.600 align:center and preserves loyalty and filial piety. 00:07:18.080 --> 00:07:19.560 align:center Please show mercy, Grand General! 00:07:19.760 --> 00:07:21.520 align:center Please show mercy, Grand General! 00:07:21.720 --> 00:07:23.320 align:center Please show mercy, Grand General! 00:07:34.040 --> 00:07:35.760 align:center Loyalty and filial piety, huh? 00:07:45.040 --> 00:07:46.040 align:center Fine. 00:07:47.480 --> 00:07:48.640 align:center As you wish then. 00:07:49.520 --> 00:07:50.880 align:center You will take ten extra lashes. 00:07:53.000 --> 00:07:54.000 align:center Do you accept it? 00:07:58.880 --> 00:07:59.880 align:center Yes, sir! 00:08:01.520 --> 00:08:02.520 align:center I'm sorry. 00:08:11.520 --> 00:08:12.520 align:center Let's go! 00:08:13.160 --> 00:08:15.280 align:center An outstanding son with a useless father. 00:08:16.880 --> 00:08:17.880 align:center How foolish! 00:08:33.480 --> 00:08:34.480 align:center This may hurt. 00:08:39.520 --> 00:08:40.640 align:center Look at you, 00:08:41.520 --> 00:08:43.040 align:center you dared to attack Zhou Island 00:08:43.480 --> 00:08:45.040 align:center with only a few ships and troops. 00:08:45.760 --> 00:08:47.440 align:center You were practically courting death. 00:08:47.720 --> 00:08:48.720 align:center Reckless! 00:08:50.560 --> 00:08:51.560 align:center The Art of War says, 00:08:53.200 --> 00:08:54.960 align:center "Throw them into death ground, and they will fight to survive; 00:08:55.080 --> 00:08:56.800 align:center place them in peril, and they will thrive. 00:08:57.160 --> 00:08:58.480 align:center Desperate troops always win." 00:08:59.520 --> 00:09:00.520 align:center You taught me that. 00:09:03.760 --> 00:09:05.800 align:center Don't throw war strategies at me. 00:09:06.400 --> 00:09:08.040 align:center I might not have been there, 00:09:08.520 --> 00:09:10.360 align:center but I know exactly what you were thinking. 00:09:11.160 --> 00:09:12.320 align:center Your attack on Zhou Island 00:09:12.400 --> 00:09:14.760 align:center was just to plead for your father's pardon. 00:09:17.880 --> 00:09:19.240 align:center And you saw how he repaid you. 00:09:19.680 --> 00:09:20.680 align:center Was it worth it? 00:09:21.760 --> 00:09:23.360 align:center Why did you have to whip him for real? 00:09:24.360 --> 00:09:25.360 align:center I told him to. 00:09:26.000 --> 00:09:27.640 align:center There's no jesting in the military. 00:09:27.680 --> 00:09:28.680 align:center Forty lashes are nothing. 00:09:29.000 --> 00:09:30.280 align:center I said I'd take the punishment for my father, 00:09:30.360 --> 00:09:32.400 align:center I had to bear it seriously, no pretense allowed. 00:09:32.760 --> 00:09:35.280 align:center -Leave us. -Yes, sir! 00:09:38.760 --> 00:09:39.760 align:center Uncle, 00:09:40.760 --> 00:09:42.600 align:center worth it or not, he's my father. 00:09:43.000 --> 00:09:44.160 align:center My mother and Han 00:09:44.960 --> 00:09:46.400 align:center are waiting for him to come home. 00:09:48.520 --> 00:09:49.520 align:center This is my fault. 00:09:50.040 --> 00:09:53.160 align:center I should never have agreed to let Hui Sun marry him. 00:09:54.760 --> 00:09:55.760 align:center That's not fair. 00:09:56.920 --> 00:09:58.680 align:center If they hadn't married, I wouldn't exist. 00:09:58.840 --> 00:10:01.480 align:center And without me, who would keep you company securing the borders? 00:10:01.520 --> 00:10:02.680 align:center You'd be so bored. 00:10:03.560 --> 00:10:04.560 align:center Honestly, 00:10:05.520 --> 00:10:08.720 align:center I feel refreshed right now, like after a good cupping treatment. 00:10:09.800 --> 00:10:11.760 align:center You feel refreshed, huh? 00:10:17.640 --> 00:10:19.160 align:center Duke of Ying has packed up and left. 00:11:01.640 --> 00:11:03.080 align:center Lighting every lamp, burning every incense. 00:11:03.160 --> 00:11:04.200 align:center Grain God, 00:11:04.360 --> 00:11:06.400 align:center (Zhao Zhang Ru) bless us with a bountiful harvest, 00:11:06.520 --> 00:11:09.480 align:center and may Shou Gu and An Su earn baskets full of money. 00:11:13.040 --> 00:11:14.760 align:center Farmers pray for favorable conditions 00:11:15.040 --> 00:11:18.200 align:center because they depend on the weather to survive. 00:11:18.400 --> 00:11:20.160 align:center But businesses rely on human effort. 00:11:20.760 --> 00:11:22.280 align:center Instead of asking the gods, 00:11:22.920 --> 00:11:24.520 align:center maybe you should reward me generously. 00:11:26.280 --> 00:11:27.400 align:center Don't speak carelessly. 00:11:27.520 --> 00:11:29.720 align:center Even launching ships for trade depends on the heavens. 00:11:30.280 --> 00:11:32.200 align:center Oh, Grain God, don't hold it against Shou Gu. 00:11:32.440 --> 00:11:36.040 align:center If you have time, please bless us with more wealth and fortune. 00:11:37.680 --> 00:11:40.160 align:center I predict the pirates will be completely eradicated this year, 00:11:40.760 --> 00:11:43.040 align:center and spring and summer trade will bring great wealth. 00:11:43.480 --> 00:11:45.040 align:center I'll make sure to add to your fortune. 00:11:45.880 --> 00:11:48.800 align:center If you really are a clairvoyant, 00:11:49.520 --> 00:11:51.400 align:center did you see this coming then? 00:11:53.400 --> 00:11:54.400 align:center Zhang Ru! 00:11:55.160 --> 00:11:56.840 align:center Oh, I got another premonition. 00:11:57.080 --> 00:11:59.360 align:center You won't find a husband this year either. 00:12:00.240 --> 00:12:02.200 align:center How dare you say that! 00:12:03.280 --> 00:12:04.280 align:center Zhang Ru! 00:12:17.560 --> 00:12:18.560 align:center Good news! 00:12:19.040 --> 00:12:20.240 align:center I've got great news! 00:12:22.200 --> 00:12:23.560 align:center Su Su. 00:12:24.400 --> 00:12:25.640 align:center What are you doing? 00:12:28.560 --> 00:12:29.640 align:center What are you doing? 00:12:30.800 --> 00:12:32.400 align:center Stop it! 00:12:34.480 --> 00:12:35.480 align:center Stop! 00:12:40.880 --> 00:12:41.880 align:center Oh, no. 00:12:42.040 --> 00:12:43.040 align:center What are those? 00:12:43.400 --> 00:12:44.400 align:center Money. 00:12:47.920 --> 00:12:49.680 align:center You didn't guess it would be money. 00:12:51.160 --> 00:12:52.520 align:center One thousand taels each, 00:12:52.760 --> 00:12:54.040 align:center and so many of them! 00:12:54.280 --> 00:12:56.520 align:center There aren't many this wealthy in all of North Zhili. 00:12:56.720 --> 00:12:59.640 align:center The tea, silk, and porcelain we stocked last year 00:12:59.720 --> 00:13:00.760 align:center all sold at a premium. 00:13:00.920 --> 00:13:03.160 align:center Thanks to Zhao seizing the opportunity early, 00:13:03.280 --> 00:13:04.280 align:center my father says 00:13:04.560 --> 00:13:06.920 align:center this month's shipping orders have increased tenfold. 00:13:07.240 --> 00:13:08.800 align:center The profits will only grow from here. 00:13:10.400 --> 00:13:13.320 align:center An Su, go back and tell Mister and Madam Miao 00:13:13.480 --> 00:13:16.640 align:center to sell the ships after selling off our current stocks. 00:13:17.120 --> 00:13:18.840 align:center We'll look for a new business opportunity. 00:13:19.480 --> 00:13:20.840 align:center Shou Gu, are you serious? 00:13:21.680 --> 00:13:22.680 align:center Why? 00:13:22.760 --> 00:13:24.960 align:center We've established our business in Futing early on 00:13:25.120 --> 00:13:26.640 align:center and became the shipping tycoon here. 00:13:26.680 --> 00:13:29.760 align:center When all the sea routes open up, 00:13:29.920 --> 00:13:31.680 align:center won't we make even more money then? 00:13:31.840 --> 00:13:33.840 align:center This is the 24th year of the Chengping reign. 00:13:34.040 --> 00:13:36.680 align:center The Duke of Ding's Army's coastal campaigns are nearly finished. 00:13:36.880 --> 00:13:38.080 align:center With the pirates eradicated, 00:13:38.520 --> 00:13:40.800 align:center maritime trade will become hugely profitable. 00:13:41.040 --> 00:13:43.600 align:center From local officials in Futing to the Ministry of Revenue, 00:13:44.040 --> 00:13:46.280 align:center they're bound to tighten regulations and increase taxes. 00:13:46.440 --> 00:13:48.320 align:center This business might not be as easy as it seems. 00:13:48.680 --> 00:13:50.880 align:center Even if local officials want to take a cut, 00:13:51.240 --> 00:13:53.160 align:center it's not like the business would become unviable. 00:13:53.240 --> 00:13:55.120 align:center Isn't pulling out now too early? 00:13:55.640 --> 00:13:59.320 align:center Or did you hear something from Mr. Chen? 00:13:59.400 --> 00:14:00.400 align:center No, nothing like that. 00:14:00.920 --> 00:14:02.920 align:center It's just that when you buy during a slump, 00:14:03.160 --> 00:14:04.480 align:center even if prices rise, it's still cheap; 00:14:04.560 --> 00:14:07.000 align:center and when you sell during a boom, even if prices fall, it's still high. 00:14:07.080 --> 00:14:08.680 align:center If everyone knows it's easy money, 00:14:08.920 --> 00:14:09.920 align:center then there's no real profit left. 00:14:10.680 --> 00:14:11.680 align:center Trust me on this. 00:14:12.360 --> 00:14:14.480 align:center I don't understand all that, but I know one thing, 00:14:14.720 --> 00:14:16.560 align:center If you become the richest person in Zhending, 00:14:16.640 --> 00:14:19.560 align:center your stepmother and your fiance, Marquis of Jining, 00:14:19.640 --> 00:14:21.520 align:center will be drooling when counting your money. 00:14:21.760 --> 00:14:22.760 align:center Young Lady Zhao, 00:14:23.440 --> 00:14:24.920 align:center Nanny Zhou from the capital is here. 00:14:26.640 --> 00:14:28.520 align:center Great, speak of the devil, 00:14:28.760 --> 00:14:30.160 align:center and here comes trouble. 00:14:30.520 --> 00:14:33.520 align:center I've clearly turned down the family banquet for the festival, 00:14:34.400 --> 00:14:35.920 align:center and now they're inviting me again. 00:14:36.360 --> 00:14:38.280 align:center I have distant relatives visiting, 00:14:38.800 --> 00:14:40.800 align:center no time to play the role of the doting mother in a happy family. 00:14:41.880 --> 00:14:44.280 align:center Oh, Old Madam, how can you say such a thing? 00:14:44.560 --> 00:14:46.920 align:center It's rare for Fifth Master and Seventh Master to both be here. 00:14:47.000 --> 00:14:50.400 align:center A family reunion during the festival is a wonderful thing! 00:14:51.640 --> 00:14:52.640 align:center To be honest, 00:14:53.360 --> 00:14:55.880 align:center Seventh Master caught a cold a few days ago. 00:14:56.520 --> 00:14:58.400 align:center He's been missing his daughter terribly. 00:14:59.760 --> 00:15:01.040 align:center Using my father as an excuse? 00:15:01.280 --> 00:15:03.680 align:center If I don't go, I'll be accused of being unfilial, won't I? 00:15:04.520 --> 00:15:06.280 align:center Young Lady Zhao, how can you think that way? 00:15:06.680 --> 00:15:08.240 align:center Madam went out of her way 00:15:08.440 --> 00:15:10.720 align:center to prepare a whole table of dishes just for you. 00:15:11.520 --> 00:15:13.960 align:center Is her food even edible? 00:15:14.160 --> 00:15:16.760 align:center Yes, what if she's up to no good 00:15:17.040 --> 00:15:19.120 align:center and poisons the food? 00:15:19.480 --> 00:15:20.560 align:center I refuse to believe she would be nice. 00:15:20.640 --> 00:15:22.280 align:center How can you say such things? 00:15:23.480 --> 00:15:24.480 align:center Fine. 00:15:25.920 --> 00:15:27.200 align:center Shou Gu, are you really going? 00:15:29.520 --> 00:15:30.520 align:center Grandmother, 00:15:30.680 --> 00:15:32.840 align:center since Father still remembers he has another daughter, 00:15:33.400 --> 00:15:34.400 align:center I want to go. 00:15:34.520 --> 00:15:36.680 align:center We're going with Zhao then. 00:15:36.920 --> 00:15:39.520 align:center Surely you won't mind receiving a few more guests. 00:15:41.960 --> 00:15:42.960 align:center Alright then. 00:15:43.640 --> 00:15:46.480 align:center The capital is only half a day's journey from Zhending. 00:15:47.760 --> 00:15:48.760 align:center Nanny Zhou, 00:15:49.520 --> 00:15:51.680 align:center take good care of my granddaughters. 00:15:51.760 --> 00:15:52.800 align:center Of course! 00:16:00.080 --> 00:16:01.080 align:center I'd like one, please. 00:16:01.600 --> 00:16:03.040 align:center (Duke of Ying's Residence) 00:16:32.200 --> 00:16:33.520 align:center (Song Han) 00:16:37.080 --> 00:16:39.760 align:center Han, your spear skills have improved a lot. 00:16:40.280 --> 00:16:42.800 align:center I imagine your mother has had to work hard to train you. 00:16:44.080 --> 00:16:45.120 align:center Nonsense. 00:16:45.560 --> 00:16:47.120 align:center It's been ages since I practiced with a spear. 00:16:47.160 --> 00:16:49.600 align:center A little exercise is good for me anyway. 00:16:56.520 --> 00:16:58.520 align:center Brother? You're back! 00:16:59.160 --> 00:17:00.160 align:center Yan Tang? 00:17:00.560 --> 00:17:01.560 align:center Yan Tang! 00:17:03.280 --> 00:17:04.280 align:center Mother. 00:17:06.760 --> 00:17:08.520 align:center This is a dagger seized from the pirates. 00:17:08.760 --> 00:17:09.760 align:center It's yours now. 00:17:12.200 --> 00:17:13.200 align:center Thanks, Mo! 00:17:15.200 --> 00:17:17.560 align:center I heard you were badly injured in the battle at Zhou Island. 00:17:17.720 --> 00:17:19.680 align:center Where are you hurt? Let me take a look. 00:17:20.040 --> 00:17:21.040 align:center I'm fine. 00:17:23.160 --> 00:17:24.280 align:center After such a bumpy journey, 00:17:24.520 --> 00:17:25.760 align:center how could your body handle it? 00:17:26.800 --> 00:17:29.560 align:center Showing off your big victory the moment you walk in, huh? 00:17:30.520 --> 00:17:32.200 align:center His uncle takes good care of him. 00:17:33.080 --> 00:17:34.080 align:center He doesn't need us. 00:17:37.240 --> 00:17:39.040 align:center Will you stop picking fights with my brother? 00:17:39.160 --> 00:17:40.320 align:center The children are watching. 00:17:45.560 --> 00:17:46.560 align:center Ignore him. 00:17:48.280 --> 00:17:50.680 align:center It's been a while since you've tasted my cooking. 00:17:51.720 --> 00:17:52.760 align:center Get some rest. 00:17:52.840 --> 00:17:54.560 align:center I'll cook for us today. 00:17:54.840 --> 00:17:56.800 align:center Let's have a family reunion dinner. 00:17:57.040 --> 00:17:58.880 align:center Great! I'll help you in the kitchen. 00:17:58.960 --> 00:17:59.960 align:center Alright. 00:18:08.040 --> 00:18:09.040 align:center Leave us. 00:18:20.360 --> 00:18:22.280 align:center Your uncle sure knows how to play his cards. 00:18:22.480 --> 00:18:24.320 align:center He submitted an expedited military report, 00:18:25.040 --> 00:18:26.680 align:center accusing me of negligence and delay, 00:18:26.760 --> 00:18:28.960 align:center and only your merits spared me from the lashes. 00:18:30.040 --> 00:18:32.760 align:center Now the entire court knows! 00:18:33.120 --> 00:18:34.120 align:center As a father, 00:18:34.360 --> 00:18:35.720 align:center I had to rely on my excellent son 00:18:35.800 --> 00:18:38.000 align:center and beg for Jiang Mei Sun's mercy. 00:18:38.960 --> 00:18:40.040 align:center It's a victory report, 00:18:40.480 --> 00:18:41.640 align:center not an impeachment letter. 00:18:42.000 --> 00:18:44.840 align:center Amid the joy of a great victory, a few sentences mentioning this matter 00:18:45.160 --> 00:18:47.440 align:center ensures His Majesty doesn't dig deeply into your mistakes. 00:18:47.520 --> 00:18:49.560 align:center Did I do wrong to eliminate bandits for the people? 00:18:50.200 --> 00:18:51.880 align:center If you hadn't volunteered for the lashes, 00:18:51.960 --> 00:18:54.120 align:center I'd still have a case to argue before His Majesty. 00:18:54.600 --> 00:18:55.600 align:center Now this is great. 00:18:56.040 --> 00:18:58.840 align:center His Majesty has demoted me to overseeing the South City garrison. 00:18:59.520 --> 00:19:02.200 align:center The son earns merit while the father gets demoted. 00:19:02.360 --> 00:19:04.600 align:center You still think Jiang Mei Sun did this out of kindness? 00:19:04.680 --> 00:19:05.880 align:center Father... 00:19:07.080 --> 00:19:08.600 align:center So you do know I'm your father. 00:19:09.480 --> 00:19:10.480 align:center For years, 00:19:10.920 --> 00:19:13.760 align:center you've barely come home. 00:19:14.160 --> 00:19:15.880 align:center His Majesty praises you 00:19:16.600 --> 00:19:18.600 align:center for embodying Jiang Mei Sun's integrity. 00:19:19.280 --> 00:19:20.600 align:center Now I'm confused. 00:19:21.280 --> 00:19:22.920 align:center Whose son are you? 00:19:54.440 --> 00:19:55.440 align:center Do you like it? 00:20:01.040 --> 00:20:02.760 align:center Whose son are you? 00:20:03.520 --> 00:20:07.080 align:center His Grace has been strict with you since you were little. 00:20:07.800 --> 00:20:08.800 align:center Rules and expectations 00:20:09.760 --> 00:20:11.440 align:center are naturally stricter in noble families. 00:20:15.840 --> 00:20:16.840 align:center I've only just realized 00:20:18.000 --> 00:20:19.400 align:center that during the years I've been away, 00:20:19.520 --> 00:20:20.520 align:center my parents and brother 00:20:21.040 --> 00:20:22.800 align:center have grown close, like a true family. 00:20:23.760 --> 00:20:24.760 align:center My return 00:20:25.320 --> 00:20:26.840 align:center has only disrupted their harmony. 00:20:31.800 --> 00:20:33.080 align:center I'd like to take a walk alone. 00:20:33.520 --> 00:20:34.520 align:center Don't follow me. 00:20:44.680 --> 00:20:45.720 align:center Today, 00:20:46.000 --> 00:20:48.480 align:center the shadow puppet show we'll be performing 00:20:49.000 --> 00:20:51.400 align:center is called the Record of Truths. 00:20:52.120 --> 00:20:53.960 align:center Yes! Yes! 00:21:23.920 --> 00:21:25.640 align:center Would it be better for everyone 00:21:26.800 --> 00:21:28.520 align:center if I weren't the heir to Duke of Ying? 00:21:32.280 --> 00:21:35.840 align:center Awesome! 00:21:57.760 --> 00:21:59.960 align:center Yes! Bravo! 00:22:13.360 --> 00:22:14.560 align:center It's been so long since I've been to the capital. 00:22:14.640 --> 00:22:15.880 align:center The festival here is so lively! 00:22:16.000 --> 00:22:17.320 align:center Look at all these Nuo opera masks! 00:22:17.360 --> 00:22:18.880 align:center We're going to be late. 00:22:18.960 --> 00:22:20.800 align:center Ladies, why did you get off the carriage here? 00:22:21.240 --> 00:22:22.360 align:center Fifth Master and Seventh Master are waiting. 00:22:22.440 --> 00:22:25.240 align:center Come on, get back in! Quickly! 00:22:38.000 --> 00:22:40.360 align:center Ladies, I'll go inform Fifth Master and Seventh Master. 00:22:42.600 --> 00:22:43.600 align:center Young Lady Zhao. 00:22:48.080 --> 00:22:51.680 align:center Chen Shi Yuan, Liu Xue Zhen, Pang Kun Bai... 00:22:51.880 --> 00:22:54.680 align:center All the guests are sons of newly prominent court officials. 00:22:55.320 --> 00:22:56.320 align:center Know your enemy 00:22:56.640 --> 00:22:58.040 align:center and prepare accordingly. 00:23:00.760 --> 00:23:02.080 align:center So many young men are here. 00:23:02.680 --> 00:23:05.120 align:center If I'd known, I would've dressed up properly! 00:23:05.640 --> 00:23:07.200 align:center They're all Uncle Shi Shu's students, 00:23:07.280 --> 00:23:08.480 align:center from prestigious families. 00:23:09.480 --> 00:23:10.800 align:center They're celebrating their promotion. 00:23:10.880 --> 00:23:12.720 align:center Our attire does seem inappropriate. 00:23:13.480 --> 00:23:14.480 align:center Zhao. 00:23:17.520 --> 00:23:19.600 align:center Zhao, what are you doing here? 00:23:23.640 --> 00:23:24.800 align:center Ming, you look stunning. 00:23:27.080 --> 00:23:28.360 align:center I simply did as Mother asked. 00:23:28.960 --> 00:23:30.640 align:center I didn't know you'd be coming today. 00:23:34.680 --> 00:23:35.840 align:center We have many guests today. 00:23:36.520 --> 00:23:39.680 align:center Let's go to my room first and get you all changed. Come on. 00:23:39.760 --> 00:23:40.760 align:center -Zhao! -It's fine... 00:23:41.880 --> 00:23:43.000 align:center You're finally here. 00:23:43.760 --> 00:23:45.440 align:center Master and Shi Shu are waiting for you. 00:23:46.080 --> 00:23:48.760 align:center Ming, why didn't you announce your sister's arrival? 00:23:50.040 --> 00:23:51.040 align:center Come with me. 00:23:51.880 --> 00:23:52.880 align:center This way. 00:23:58.360 --> 00:24:00.360 align:center Master, Zhao and the girls are here. 00:24:00.440 --> 00:24:03.080 align:center Not bad. They are all talented young men. 00:24:05.440 --> 00:24:06.440 align:center Shou Gu. 00:24:09.000 --> 00:24:12.320 align:center Our guests today are all prominent figures. 00:24:12.760 --> 00:24:14.200 align:center It's rude enough that you're late, 00:24:15.080 --> 00:24:16.840 align:center and on top of that, look at how you're dressed. 00:24:16.960 --> 00:24:18.080 align:center Standing next to Ming, 00:24:18.680 --> 00:24:19.760 align:center you look like a servant. 00:24:19.840 --> 00:24:21.680 align:center Shou Gu dressed like her grandmother. 00:24:22.280 --> 00:24:23.800 align:center Simple and elegant is perfectly fine. 00:24:24.000 --> 00:24:25.000 align:center This is my fault. 00:24:25.520 --> 00:24:27.960 align:center I should have reminded the girls. 00:24:28.680 --> 00:24:30.760 align:center (Pang Kun Bai) I'll take them to get changed now. 00:24:31.440 --> 00:24:32.440 align:center Come. 00:24:34.400 --> 00:24:35.400 align:center Please forgive us, Uncle Shi Shu. 00:24:35.480 --> 00:24:37.000 align:center My sisters and I wore plain clothes 00:24:37.600 --> 00:24:38.760 align:center not out of disrespect, 00:24:39.280 --> 00:24:41.520 align:center but because dressing extravagantly felt inappropriate. 00:24:43.200 --> 00:24:44.200 align:center How so? 00:24:44.560 --> 00:24:46.760 align:center Disasters have struck across the land since last year, 00:24:47.240 --> 00:24:48.360 align:center and wars have been frequent. 00:24:48.480 --> 00:24:51.720 align:center His and Her Majesties have cut back on their use of jewels and silks, 00:24:52.200 --> 00:24:54.520 align:center urging officials not to indulge in extravagance. 00:24:55.200 --> 00:24:56.440 align:center I hear you are set 00:24:56.560 --> 00:24:58.320 align:center to be promoted in the Ministry of Rites. 00:24:58.600 --> 00:25:00.320 align:center With the promotion decree not yet issued, 00:25:00.560 --> 00:25:01.920 align:center such a grand display might invite 00:25:02.600 --> 00:25:04.240 align:center criticism from your political rivals. 00:25:04.480 --> 00:25:05.480 align:center Well... 00:25:06.360 --> 00:25:07.360 align:center You're right. 00:25:08.240 --> 00:25:10.280 align:center I hadn't considered that. 00:25:10.360 --> 00:25:11.520 align:center This is a festive occasion! 00:25:11.640 --> 00:25:13.920 align:center Even common folk dress brightly 00:25:14.200 --> 00:25:15.560 align:center for good fortune. 00:25:15.960 --> 00:25:18.440 align:center Zhao, must you always tie everything back to national affairs? 00:25:18.520 --> 00:25:20.120 align:center It's rare to hear 00:25:20.200 --> 00:25:22.040 align:center such practical and grounded insights 00:25:22.240 --> 00:25:23.240 align:center from a noble lady. 00:25:26.920 --> 00:25:27.920 align:center Who is he? 00:25:29.440 --> 00:25:30.920 align:center As expected of you, Young Lady Zhao. 00:25:34.840 --> 00:25:36.840 align:center Young Master Wu, it's been a while. 00:25:37.280 --> 00:25:38.800 align:center How is Lord Wu? 00:25:38.920 --> 00:25:40.040 align:center My grandfather is in good health. 00:25:40.280 --> 00:25:42.880 align:center (Wu Shan) On his behalf, I extend early congratulations to you, 00:25:43.720 --> 00:25:45.280 align:center -Fifth Master and Seventh Master. -Thank you. 00:25:54.480 --> 00:25:56.760 align:center -Young Master Wu, this way, please. -Remove the lanterns. 00:25:56.920 --> 00:25:57.920 align:center Ying Xue, 00:25:58.280 --> 00:26:00.280 align:center take Ming to change into something more suitable. 00:26:07.800 --> 00:26:10.280 align:center Wu Shan, the only grandson of Grand Secretary Wu. 00:26:11.240 --> 00:26:13.560 align:center I didn't know you had a connection with the Wu family. 00:26:14.120 --> 00:26:16.000 align:center My stepmother is an expert at networking. 00:26:16.920 --> 00:26:19.280 align:center Besides, Wang Xing Yi is Wu Shan's mentor. 00:26:19.800 --> 00:26:22.280 align:center At this banquet, he's likely the arrow, 00:26:23.200 --> 00:26:25.840 align:center and either Dou Ming or I will be the target. 00:26:32.960 --> 00:26:34.280 align:center They're actually changing the lanterns? 00:26:34.360 --> 00:26:35.760 align:center Mr. Chen, your prediction became true. 00:26:35.840 --> 00:26:38.720 align:center (Su Xin, Su Lan) You even knew they would change the lanterns during the banquet. 00:26:38.800 --> 00:26:40.400 align:center Since they're changing the lanterns, 00:26:40.800 --> 00:26:43.520 align:center it means Young Lady Zhao and the girls are not only safe 00:26:45.280 --> 00:26:46.920 align:center but may have even gained an advantage. 00:26:49.600 --> 00:26:50.960 align:center Let's go, Mother. 00:26:51.120 --> 00:26:52.200 align:center Ming, let me ask you, 00:26:52.680 --> 00:26:56.040 align:center what were you and Dou Zhao talking about at the door earlier? 00:26:57.720 --> 00:27:00.200 align:center I was just catching up with my sister. 00:27:00.480 --> 00:27:02.320 align:center She's never treated you as a sister, 00:27:02.680 --> 00:27:05.520 align:center yet you're eager to call her one. 00:27:06.360 --> 00:27:08.440 align:center Everything I'm doing is for your own good. 00:27:08.880 --> 00:27:11.840 align:center Why do you think I went to all that trouble inviting Young Master Wu here? 00:27:12.280 --> 00:27:13.720 align:center But I don't have feelings for Young Master Wu... 00:27:13.840 --> 00:27:14.840 align:center Enough! 00:27:15.560 --> 00:27:17.040 align:center When it comes to choosing a husband, 00:27:17.080 --> 00:27:19.240 align:center your feelings are the least important. 00:27:20.680 --> 00:27:22.840 align:center Young Master Wu comes from an esteemed family. 00:27:23.200 --> 00:27:24.520 align:center He's kind and ambitious. 00:27:24.920 --> 00:27:26.840 align:center There's no better match. 00:27:29.320 --> 00:27:30.360 align:center You've just come of age, 00:27:30.760 --> 00:27:31.960 align:center at the height of your beauty. 00:27:32.200 --> 00:27:33.200 align:center Tonight, 00:27:33.560 --> 00:27:35.200 align:center you must make me proud, 00:27:35.440 --> 00:27:36.440 align:center understand? 00:27:37.280 --> 00:27:38.480 align:center -Yes, Mother. -Let's go. 00:27:47.240 --> 00:27:48.240 align:center Shou Gu. 00:27:52.920 --> 00:27:55.760 align:center The discussion about politics earlier was just a cover. 00:27:56.600 --> 00:27:57.600 align:center I'm dressing plainly 00:27:58.200 --> 00:28:00.240 align:center because Mother's death anniversary is approaching. 00:28:01.240 --> 00:28:02.800 align:center Do you remember that? 00:28:04.040 --> 00:28:05.040 align:center Of course I do. 00:28:07.840 --> 00:28:09.000 align:center Look at this magnolia tree. 00:28:09.560 --> 00:28:11.840 align:center I tend to it personally. 00:28:12.760 --> 00:28:14.920 align:center It's blooming especially well this year. 00:28:16.160 --> 00:28:17.160 align:center Flowers bloom again, 00:28:17.520 --> 00:28:18.680 align:center but the dead cannot return. 00:28:20.240 --> 00:28:22.840 align:center The celebration is just an excuse, isn't it? 00:28:23.200 --> 00:28:24.600 align:center You and Uncle Shi Shu are using 00:28:24.680 --> 00:28:26.640 align:center this opportunity to parade our family's daughters 00:28:26.800 --> 00:28:29.400 align:center in front of Young Master Wu and the other guests, aren't you? 00:28:31.520 --> 00:28:34.600 align:center Your uncle is just concerned about your marriage prospects. 00:28:36.040 --> 00:28:38.000 align:center Am I supposed to lower myself to be scrutinized 00:28:38.080 --> 00:28:41.000 align:center and compete with Ming, like a peacock spreading its tail for display? 00:28:41.560 --> 00:28:42.800 align:center The elders mean well. 00:28:43.480 --> 00:28:44.760 align:center Don't look at it so negatively. 00:28:45.040 --> 00:28:47.560 align:center Back then, Uncle Shi Shu insisted you marry Wang Ying Xue 00:28:48.080 --> 00:28:49.520 align:center to gain the Wang family's support. 00:28:50.120 --> 00:28:52.160 align:center Now that he's risen from a clerk at the Office of Transmission 00:28:52.240 --> 00:28:54.000 align:center to a senior post in the Ministry of Rites, 00:28:54.080 --> 00:28:55.720 align:center does he really need to use our marriages 00:28:55.800 --> 00:28:57.200 align:center to curry favor with the Wu family? 00:28:57.440 --> 00:28:58.440 align:center Dou Zhao, 00:28:59.000 --> 00:29:00.480 align:center you shouldn't slander your elders. 00:29:01.480 --> 00:29:03.240 align:center Marriage has always been decided by the parents. 00:29:03.360 --> 00:29:04.320 align:center Have I ever forced you into anything? 00:29:04.440 --> 00:29:05.600 align:center You may not have forced me, 00:29:05.800 --> 00:29:07.240 align:center but you've never raised me either. 00:29:07.320 --> 00:29:09.680 align:center Keeping things simple and staying out of each other's way suit us just fine. 00:29:09.760 --> 00:29:11.200 align:center -You... -As for your high hopes, 00:29:11.280 --> 00:29:12.760 align:center place them on Ming instead. 00:29:13.080 --> 00:29:14.080 align:center When she marries, 00:29:14.600 --> 00:29:15.840 align:center I'll contribute to her dowry. 00:29:23.560 --> 00:29:25.120 align:center Young Lady Ming seems delicate. 00:29:25.240 --> 00:29:26.240 align:center It makes me want to protect her. 00:29:26.760 --> 00:29:28.400 align:center But she doesn't look like she's built for childbearing. 00:29:28.480 --> 00:29:31.080 align:center Young Lady Ming is reserved for Young Master Wu. 00:29:31.440 --> 00:29:32.440 align:center So, don't bother trying. 00:29:32.680 --> 00:29:34.360 align:center If you want to rely on the Dou family, 00:29:34.960 --> 00:29:38.840 align:center aim lower, someone they've written off, 00:29:39.040 --> 00:29:40.320 align:center like that girl from the Zhao family. 00:29:40.440 --> 00:29:42.000 align:center I might as well marry Young Lady Zhao then. 00:29:42.200 --> 00:29:43.280 align:center At least she's filthy rich. 00:29:43.480 --> 00:29:45.080 align:center Young Lady Zhao is mine. 00:29:45.480 --> 00:29:47.080 align:center You can have Young Lady Miao instead. 00:29:47.240 --> 00:29:49.000 align:center Her family may not be as wealthy, 00:29:49.280 --> 00:29:51.200 align:center but at least she's easy to control. 00:29:52.040 --> 00:29:53.480 align:center A gentleman knows to exercise restraint in his words and actions. 00:29:53.760 --> 00:29:55.480 align:center Yet here you are, under their roof, 00:29:55.600 --> 00:29:56.920 align:center engaging in such vile discussions. 00:29:56.960 --> 00:29:59.880 align:center Have all the moral lessons you've studied been for nothing? 00:30:08.320 --> 00:30:11.040 align:center Trust me, pick Young Lady Miao. 00:30:11.280 --> 00:30:12.280 align:center Just trust me. 00:30:17.800 --> 00:30:18.840 align:center What is this? 00:30:19.520 --> 00:30:20.600 align:center It stinks! 00:30:26.880 --> 00:30:28.560 align:center This is a rain gauge from the Ministry of Works, 00:30:28.640 --> 00:30:30.600 align:center used by various provinces to measure rainfall and prevent disasters. 00:30:30.720 --> 00:30:31.960 align:center It must not be tampered with. 00:30:41.680 --> 00:30:42.680 align:center Ming is here. 00:30:48.840 --> 00:30:50.280 align:center The star of the show is here. 00:30:50.480 --> 00:30:52.040 align:center Should we just play supporting roles? 00:30:52.120 --> 00:30:54.000 align:center Yes, keep quiet and stay out of sight. 00:30:54.200 --> 00:30:55.680 align:center Just focus on eating and drinking. 00:30:56.200 --> 00:30:57.640 align:center I agree with that! 00:30:58.480 --> 00:31:00.520 align:center Everyone, it's a pleasure to have you here. 00:31:00.600 --> 00:31:02.200 align:center Please make yourselves at home. 00:31:02.360 --> 00:31:03.360 align:center Zhao. 00:31:08.920 --> 00:31:10.680 align:center Gentlemen, you are all well-learned scholars. 00:31:11.040 --> 00:31:12.040 align:center I have a suggestion. 00:31:12.520 --> 00:31:13.760 align:center How about you compose couplets 00:31:13.880 --> 00:31:15.680 align:center and challenge the young ladies to match them? 00:31:15.760 --> 00:31:18.120 align:center If anyone succeeds, 00:31:18.320 --> 00:31:20.360 align:center -they'll drink a toast. -Sounds great! 00:31:20.440 --> 00:31:21.800 align:center That's a great idea! 00:31:23.040 --> 00:31:24.240 align:center Since you've proposed it, 00:31:24.560 --> 00:31:26.320 align:center it would indeed be a privilege to witness 00:31:26.440 --> 00:31:27.600 align:center the young ladies' literary talents. 00:31:27.680 --> 00:31:30.800 align:center Excellent. Young Master Wu, why don't you start us off? 00:31:39.120 --> 00:31:40.560 align:center Beside the wall lies Willow Alley, 00:31:40.600 --> 00:31:41.760 align:center water floods the long dike, 00:31:42.040 --> 00:31:44.400 align:center narrow paths make the cattle doubt there's room to tread. 00:31:44.920 --> 00:31:45.920 align:center Excellent! 00:31:46.520 --> 00:31:49.200 align:center Your talent rivals that of the scholars from Imperial Academy! 00:32:15.760 --> 00:32:16.760 align:center Ming. 00:32:20.040 --> 00:32:21.040 align:center You can write... 00:32:33.120 --> 00:32:34.280 align:center Dou Ming has written one. 00:32:35.560 --> 00:32:37.240 align:center Beyond the heart lies Peach Blossom Land, 00:32:37.800 --> 00:32:39.040 align:center clouds obscure the narrow path, 00:32:39.120 --> 00:32:42.160 align:center in a forest where animals roam, a new world unfolds. 00:32:42.600 --> 00:32:43.600 align:center Brilliant! 00:32:44.080 --> 00:32:45.760 align:center What a perfect match! 00:32:52.520 --> 00:32:54.440 align:center Thank you for the inspiration, Young Master Wu. 00:32:59.080 --> 00:33:00.640 align:center Shi Shu, look at this couplet. 00:33:03.520 --> 00:33:04.520 align:center Here. 00:33:17.080 --> 00:33:18.920 align:center Young Lady Ming completely stole the spotlight. 00:33:19.000 --> 00:33:20.840 align:center Wang Ying Xue must be overjoyed. 00:33:20.920 --> 00:33:22.720 align:center Why is she still dragging this on? 00:33:22.920 --> 00:33:23.920 align:center Yes, why, Shou Gu? 00:33:24.040 --> 00:33:26.040 align:center That's just how she is. 00:33:26.600 --> 00:33:28.200 align:center Young Lady Zhao, you're very talented. 00:33:28.360 --> 00:33:29.840 align:center Why haven't you written anything? 00:33:31.040 --> 00:33:32.240 align:center I grew up in the countryside. 00:33:32.480 --> 00:33:33.680 align:center I'm not skilled in literature. 00:33:34.400 --> 00:33:35.440 align:center You must be joking. 00:33:35.880 --> 00:33:37.960 align:center The young ladies are the stars of this banquet. 00:33:38.760 --> 00:33:40.880 align:center Why don't you compose a couplet? 00:33:47.200 --> 00:33:49.440 align:center Shou Gu, do you not want to write one? 00:33:49.720 --> 00:33:51.040 align:center Let me write one for you then. 00:34:10.680 --> 00:34:14.160 align:center A young boy herds sheep and cattle in the northern plains, 00:34:14.360 --> 00:34:17.720 align:center watching the sheep, the cattle, and the stars. 00:34:20.400 --> 00:34:21.400 align:center I have one to match that. 00:34:22.520 --> 00:34:25.600 align:center A bandit in black sneaks in at midnight, 00:34:26.200 --> 00:34:29.520 align:center grabbing, embracing, and stealing kisses. 00:34:38.440 --> 00:34:39.440 align:center Shameless scoundrel. 00:34:45.320 --> 00:34:46.320 align:center Outrageous! 00:34:46.440 --> 00:34:47.720 align:center Judging by the handwriting, 00:34:48.120 --> 00:34:49.920 align:center this must be from Young Lady Zhang Ru. 00:34:50.800 --> 00:34:53.160 align:center Zhao Si is a two-time imperial exam laureate, 00:34:53.680 --> 00:34:55.080 align:center yet his only daughter comes up 00:34:55.520 --> 00:34:57.240 align:center with something so vulgar and absurd. 00:34:58.440 --> 00:35:00.400 align:center And you, Young Master Pang, matched it so well. 00:35:00.840 --> 00:35:02.520 align:center Shall I arrange a marriage for you 00:35:03.040 --> 00:35:05.440 align:center to become the Zhao family's live-in son-in-law? 00:35:05.800 --> 00:35:07.320 align:center Who would want him as a husband? 00:35:07.880 --> 00:35:10.000 align:center It was thoughtless of me to speak like that. 00:35:10.880 --> 00:35:12.400 align:center He thought it was written by Zhao. 00:35:12.680 --> 00:35:13.760 align:center He was just trying to help her. 00:35:13.840 --> 00:35:15.120 align:center It was just a joke. 00:35:15.480 --> 00:35:17.360 align:center Young Lady Zhao's couplet lacked refinement, 00:35:17.520 --> 00:35:19.320 align:center so naturally, the reply was vulgar too. 00:35:19.480 --> 00:35:21.400 align:center With her parents far away in Diannan, 00:35:21.520 --> 00:35:22.880 align:center she's had no one to guide her. 00:35:23.000 --> 00:35:25.440 align:center Spending years mingling with merchants and common folk in the countryside, 00:35:25.520 --> 00:35:27.520 align:center it's no surprise she's neglected her studies. 00:35:27.560 --> 00:35:28.960 align:center You're full of crap! 00:35:32.520 --> 00:35:33.520 align:center Alright, alright. 00:35:33.920 --> 00:35:34.960 align:center By your reasoning, 00:35:35.640 --> 00:35:37.240 align:center I too grew up without parents' guidance, 00:35:37.320 --> 00:35:39.400 align:center doing lowly work and mingling with country folk... 00:35:39.520 --> 00:35:40.520 align:center Dou Zhao! 00:35:44.680 --> 00:35:47.120 align:center You know what, I've thought of a couplet. 00:35:48.920 --> 00:35:49.920 align:center Shou Gu! 00:35:51.040 --> 00:35:53.080 align:center What is she doing here? 00:35:53.160 --> 00:35:54.840 align:center Dou Zhao, this is the men's table. 00:35:55.040 --> 00:35:56.840 align:center What are you doing? Have you no shame? 00:35:56.920 --> 00:35:57.920 align:center Dou Zhao... 00:36:02.640 --> 00:36:05.240 align:center If you gentlemen can openly discuss women's marriages 00:36:05.720 --> 00:36:06.720 align:center without shame, 00:36:07.040 --> 00:36:08.280 align:center why should I feel embarrassed? 00:36:12.240 --> 00:36:13.840 align:center That folding fan is traditionally used 00:36:14.000 --> 00:36:15.640 align:center only by courtesans or talented scholars. 00:36:16.160 --> 00:36:17.440 align:center Young Master Liu Xue Zhen, 00:36:17.640 --> 00:36:19.800 align:center I heard you've failed the imperial exam six times. 00:36:19.960 --> 00:36:21.240 align:center You're using a folding fan too, 00:36:21.360 --> 00:36:23.000 align:center but where's the talent to match it? 00:36:25.320 --> 00:36:26.560 align:center Young Lady Zhao, as a lady, 00:36:27.080 --> 00:36:29.360 align:center talking like that is highly inappropriate. 00:36:29.560 --> 00:36:30.760 align:center Young Master Chen Shi Yuan, 00:36:30.920 --> 00:36:32.400 align:center I hear your family's business failed, 00:36:32.480 --> 00:36:33.920 align:center and you even had to sell your ancestral home. 00:36:34.000 --> 00:36:36.640 align:center You're looking for a dowry to make up for the losses, aren't you? 00:36:37.440 --> 00:36:39.040 align:center Shou Gu has been away from the capital for years. 00:36:39.080 --> 00:36:40.280 align:center How does she know all that? 00:36:47.720 --> 00:36:49.200 align:center Easy it is to find a fickle lover, 00:36:49.880 --> 00:36:51.560 align:center but priceless treasures are hard to seek. 00:36:52.080 --> 00:36:55.800 align:center Why waste false affection on embroidered words? 00:36:56.440 --> 00:36:58.840 align:center I can't stand men like you, 00:36:58.920 --> 00:37:00.360 align:center talentless, unprincipled sycophants. 00:37:00.440 --> 00:37:02.720 align:center Just because you're educated, you think you're above everyone, 00:37:02.800 --> 00:37:04.160 align:center criticizing and belittling women. 00:37:04.360 --> 00:37:06.640 align:center You treat marriage like items on a marketplace shelf, 00:37:06.720 --> 00:37:08.360 align:center weighing and scheming over them. 00:37:09.240 --> 00:37:11.320 align:center If we're the bottom-of-the-barrel oranges and rotten sugarcane, 00:37:12.000 --> 00:37:13.400 align:center what does that make you? Flies and vermin? 00:37:13.480 --> 00:37:14.480 align:center Insolent! 00:37:14.840 --> 00:37:15.960 align:center You're behaving improperly 00:37:16.440 --> 00:37:19.400 align:center and speaking nonsense in front of our guests. 00:37:19.480 --> 00:37:20.800 align:center Zhao is as impressive as usual. 00:37:21.560 --> 00:37:23.520 align:center Young Master Wu, my apologies for the spectacle. 00:37:23.680 --> 00:37:25.120 align:center Young Lady Zhao's couplet 00:37:25.200 --> 00:37:26.400 align:center is sincere and sharp-witted, 00:37:26.760 --> 00:37:28.360 align:center with a touch of satirical humor. 00:37:29.280 --> 00:37:30.280 align:center I don't find anything 00:37:31.040 --> 00:37:32.080 align:center improper about them. 00:37:32.800 --> 00:37:35.640 align:center Though I must admit, her couplet is quite difficult to match. 00:37:37.040 --> 00:37:38.120 align:center My behavior is crude 00:37:39.240 --> 00:37:40.680 align:center and unworthy of your company. 00:37:41.400 --> 00:37:42.800 align:center I'll excuse myself to reflect. 00:37:48.200 --> 00:37:49.200 align:center We'll go with you! 00:37:50.120 --> 00:37:51.120 align:center Let them go. 00:37:56.920 --> 00:37:58.360 align:center Will Young Lady Zhao be bullied? 00:38:00.880 --> 00:38:04.200 align:center In noble households, one must act with careful timing. 00:38:05.240 --> 00:38:08.440 align:center Being too sharp and outspoken isn't always wise. 00:38:09.760 --> 00:38:13.880 align:center The question is whether she can hold back. 00:38:14.880 --> 00:38:16.320 align:center If she can, 00:38:17.120 --> 00:38:19.640 align:center we'll need to wait for about half an incense stick's time. 00:38:19.720 --> 00:38:21.840 align:center Mr. Chen, you always speak in riddles. 00:38:23.200 --> 00:38:24.720 align:center And what if she can't conceal it? 00:38:25.440 --> 00:38:26.440 align:center Zhao, please wait! 00:38:27.520 --> 00:38:28.520 align:center They're out. 00:38:28.600 --> 00:38:30.960 align:center Zhao, don't be mad. 00:38:31.120 --> 00:38:32.120 align:center I'm not mad. 00:38:32.880 --> 00:38:34.800 align:center It's not worth getting angry over those people. 00:38:37.120 --> 00:38:39.880 align:center Young Lady, are you really not mad? 00:38:40.000 --> 00:38:41.400 align:center Fine, maybe I am a little mad. 00:38:42.320 --> 00:38:44.440 align:center Mr. Chen, I understand that you wanted me to come, 00:38:44.600 --> 00:38:46.120 align:center hoping I'd learn to be patient. 00:38:48.920 --> 00:38:50.360 align:center But this isn't entirely a bad thing. 00:38:51.200 --> 00:38:52.880 align:center In official families, when choosing a wife, 00:38:52.960 --> 00:38:54.880 align:center they care most about virtue and obedience. 00:38:55.520 --> 00:38:58.400 align:center If I earn myself a reputation as a shrew or troublemaker, 00:38:59.160 --> 00:39:01.800 align:center it'll give Marquis of Jining a perfect excuse to break off the engagement. 00:39:01.920 --> 00:39:04.080 align:center That'll save me from their constant pressure to marry. 00:39:04.120 --> 00:39:07.240 align:center Zhao, do you really not care about your reputation or marriage? 00:39:07.680 --> 00:39:10.200 align:center Women can live perfectly well without relying on men. 00:39:11.040 --> 00:39:13.720 align:center Becoming someone's wife means taking care of his parents, 00:39:14.680 --> 00:39:17.040 align:center worrying about his career, managing the household, 00:39:17.800 --> 00:39:20.080 align:center and even looking after concubines and their children. 00:39:20.440 --> 00:39:21.600 align:center And if you really love him, 00:39:22.840 --> 00:39:24.400 align:center you might end up like my mother. 00:39:28.400 --> 00:39:30.400 align:center I still want to meet someone I love, 00:39:30.640 --> 00:39:32.000 align:center get married, and have children. 00:39:32.440 --> 00:39:35.080 align:center My parents weren't around when I was growing up. 00:39:35.480 --> 00:39:37.320 align:center I've always wanted a home. 00:39:37.720 --> 00:39:38.840 align:center What about you, Zhang Ru? 00:39:42.200 --> 00:39:44.400 align:center I'm going to beat those uncultured brats right now! 00:39:44.800 --> 00:39:46.760 align:center How dare they call me old, crude, and unwanted! 00:39:46.800 --> 00:39:50.440 align:center I'll show them what crudeness really looks like! 00:39:50.520 --> 00:39:52.960 align:center Zhang Ru, sit down. Sit. 00:39:53.040 --> 00:39:54.040 align:center Oh, Zhang Ru. 00:39:54.680 --> 00:39:57.320 align:center They are blind and ignorant. 00:39:57.480 --> 00:39:59.000 align:center They can't see how amazing you are. 00:40:01.680 --> 00:40:04.440 align:center That's right! If my father hadn't insisted on a live-in son-in-law, 00:40:04.560 --> 00:40:06.360 align:center I'd have been married long ago, right? 00:40:08.480 --> 00:40:10.000 align:center Alright, she's had too much to drink. 00:40:10.080 --> 00:40:11.480 align:center I'll take her back. 00:40:11.880 --> 00:40:12.880 align:center Come on. 00:40:13.400 --> 00:40:15.360 align:center I'm feeling stifled. I'm going to take a walk. 00:40:15.520 --> 00:40:17.120 align:center Alright. Don't stay out too late. 00:40:17.960 --> 00:40:18.960 align:center Come on. 00:40:19.360 --> 00:40:22.240 align:center -Su Su, drink with me. -Alright, alright. 00:40:42.480 --> 00:40:44.640 align:center Young Lady, we're being followed. 00:40:45.680 --> 00:40:46.920 align:center Young Lady, have a look. 00:40:50.320 --> 00:40:52.320 align:center Go back to Dou's Residence and get some money. 00:40:52.800 --> 00:40:54.200 align:center Yes, Young Lady. 00:41:02.360 --> 00:41:03.360 align:center Goodbye. 00:41:12.880 --> 00:41:15.360 align:center Good sir, we have a new performance, The Tale of the Silken Robe. 00:41:15.600 --> 00:41:17.840 align:center A lost mother, an abandoned child, and a courtroom trial of the father. 00:41:17.920 --> 00:41:20.160 align:center A life adrift, tangled with love and resentment, 00:41:20.240 --> 00:41:22.360 align:center and an unbreakable bond between a father and a son. 00:41:22.640 --> 00:41:24.000 align:center There are still seats available in the private boxes. 00:41:24.080 --> 00:41:25.080 align:center Please step inside. 00:41:26.880 --> 00:41:29.080 align:center We have tea, snacks, everything you need. 00:41:38.880 --> 00:41:39.880 align:center Please come in. 00:42:04.040 --> 00:42:06.120 align:center When I invited Ji Jian Ming to our estate, 00:42:06.320 --> 00:42:08.560 align:center it was to see if he and Shou Gu might be a good match. 00:42:08.920 --> 00:42:10.640 align:center Ji Jian Ming and Shou Gu have been meeting in private. 00:42:10.760 --> 00:42:12.120 align:center They're clearly in love. 00:42:12.200 --> 00:42:14.560 align:center Zhao, how far have things gone between you two? 00:42:14.680 --> 00:42:15.640 align:center Watch out!