WEBVTT 00:08.080 --> 00:09.800 This is the permit to take the ship. 00:09.800 --> 00:14.000 Go. I won't drag you into this again. 00:17.080 --> 00:19.600 Let's never see each other again. 00:38.600 --> 00:41.200 You've cast loyalty aside, but what about filial piety? 00:41.200 --> 00:44.200 You're drowning yourself in sorrow and torment. 00:44.200 --> 00:46.800 Will the Duke rest in peace knowing this? 00:47.400 --> 00:50.680 The dead are like extinguished lamps. 00:50.680 --> 00:53.000 He wouldn't know anymore. 00:55.200 --> 00:57.080 You're not as good as him. 00:57.080 --> 00:59.200 No, I'm not. 01:15.200 --> 01:17.600 Your Grace, 01:17.600 --> 01:20.400 you were the Grand General of Futing's army and its people. 01:20.400 --> 01:26.000 The comfort and prosperity I've enjoyed are thanks to you. 01:26.000 --> 01:30.400 You fought with your life to protect Futing's lands 01:30.400 --> 01:33.200 and bring peace to its people. 01:33.200 --> 01:36.280 Thank you. May you rest in peace. 01:37.880 --> 01:41.480 His Majesty has killed the witnesses and closed the case with a decree. 01:41.480 --> 01:45.480 If I don't overthrow the throne, how else can I change any of this? 01:49.800 --> 01:53.480 Are your eyes only used to interrogate me? 01:53.480 --> 01:55.800 If His Majesty really wanted to frame the Duke of Ding, 01:55.800 --> 01:59.280 would he have spared the Jiang family just because of a ruler? 01:59.280 --> 02:03.000 Trust me, His Majesty knows the truth. 02:03.000 --> 02:06.800 He only closed the case because the circumstances forced his hand. 02:09.800 --> 02:11.400 And I'm just supposed to swallow my shame and hatred, 02:11.400 --> 02:13.800 return to court, and climb the ranks like nothing happened? 02:13.800 --> 02:16.280 You've spent years away from the capital. 02:16.280 --> 02:18.400 You don't know much about the current political landscape. 02:18.400 --> 02:19.800 How can you hope to overturn the case 02:19.800 --> 02:21.800 when the enemy hides in the shadows and you're completely exposed? 02:21.800 --> 02:24.000 Right now, not only are all leads cut off, 02:24.000 --> 02:28.000 but your ambition, resolve, and very nature are known throughout the court. 02:28.000 --> 02:29.720 You're like an unsheathed blade; 02:29.720 --> 02:32.200 its sharpness glaringly obvious for all to see. 02:32.200 --> 02:35.600 Don't you see? The true strength of a blade isn't in striking but in restraint. 02:35.600 --> 02:39.680 Only by sheathing the blade, by concealing your edge, 02:39.680 --> 02:41.800 can you observe the bigger picture 02:41.800 --> 02:44.480 and decide your next move with clarity. 03:00.200 --> 03:02.680 Duke of Ding fought hard with his life 03:02.680 --> 03:06.600 to protect Futing's lands and ensure peace for its people. 03:06.600 --> 03:09.400 He doesn't live on just in your heart, 03:09.400 --> 03:12.280 he lives in the hearts of everyone in Futing. 03:12.280 --> 03:15.600 Everything you say, 03:15.600 --> 03:18.200 carries the legacy he passed on to you. 03:18.200 --> 03:21.680 Song Mo, listen to me. 03:21.680 --> 03:26.080 From this day forward, you are him. 04:09.760 --> 04:12.080 Your Grace, you're here! 04:14.280 --> 04:15.480 Your Grace, 04:15.480 --> 04:19.280 I've gathered news from the palace regarding the Duke of Ding. 04:21.800 --> 04:23.240 What did you hear? 04:23.240 --> 04:25.920 The eunuchs have been gossiping. 04:25.920 --> 04:28.800 They say His Majesty kept staring at the broken ruler and muttered nonsense, 04:28.800 --> 04:30.800 tormented by restless dreamsnight after night. 04:30.800 --> 04:33.080 The physicians and fortune-tellers are being summoned more frequently. 04:33.080 --> 04:36.360 It seems His Majesty feels guilty about you. 04:36.360 --> 04:38.360 Why not take advantage of it? 04:39.280 --> 04:41.680 Dou Zhao was right once again. 04:41.680 --> 04:43.680 If it wasn't for that broken ruler, 04:43.680 --> 04:46.680 the Jiang family might not have been spared. 04:46.680 --> 04:49.160 But how did she know? 04:49.160 --> 04:51.080 Despite His Majesty's regret over the Duke of Ding's unjust death, 04:51.080 --> 04:53.360 why would he still feel compelled to close the case? 04:53.360 --> 04:55.560 Who could the mastermind possibly be, 04:55.560 --> 04:59.200 for even His Majesty to act against his own conscience to protect them? 04:59.880 --> 05:01.880 In a game of cards, 05:01.880 --> 05:05.560 sometimes you have to lose a hand to protect the bigger picture. 05:05.560 --> 05:08.560 For an emperor, the stakes are much higher: 05:08.560 --> 05:12.280 It's the entire court, the entire realm. 05:12.280 --> 05:15.280 During the southeastern typhoon, His Majesty sent the crown prince to lead 05:15.280 --> 05:19.880 the disaster relief and win public favor, but His Grace opposed it and took charge himself. 05:19.880 --> 05:22.160 Could it be that His Grace's refusal to support 05:22.160 --> 05:24.280 the crown prince provoked retaliation? 05:24.280 --> 05:26.360 Are you saying... 05:27.080 --> 05:32.280 that His Majesty concealed the truth to protect the crown prince? 05:36.240 --> 05:38.360 When the Duke of Ding was escorted to the capital, 05:38.360 --> 05:40.200 did the princes make any move? 05:40.200 --> 05:43.560 Only the crown prince and Prince Qing came to ask about it. 05:43.560 --> 05:45.560 There were no other movements. 05:47.880 --> 05:51.320 Your Grace, we've got a problem at the Futing military camp! 05:59.000 --> 06:01.080 Young General hasn't returned. We can't disband. 06:01.080 --> 06:04.480 That's right, we can't disband! 06:04.480 --> 06:06.560 The damned court killed the Grand General. 06:06.560 --> 06:08.080 Why should we remain loyal? 06:08.080 --> 06:10.480 Instead of enduring this humiliation... 06:10.480 --> 06:11.760 We might as well become bandits! 06:11.760 --> 06:13.080 Yes! Yes! 06:13.080 --> 06:15.760 Let's become bandits! 06:15.760 --> 06:17.760 Such talk will get you executed. 06:17.760 --> 06:19.480 Don't ever say it again! 06:19.480 --> 06:21.760 Young General! Young General! 06:21.760 --> 06:24.360 I've been stripped of my rank. 06:24.360 --> 06:25.960 I'm not your young general anymore. 06:25.960 --> 06:27.880 I came to say goodbye. 06:27.880 --> 06:31.280 From now on, we go our separate ways 06:31.280 --> 06:33.080 and forge our own paths. 06:33.080 --> 06:36.480 Young General, we're soldiers. None of us fear death. 06:36.480 --> 06:38.360 Living as cowards, with no clarity or justice, 06:38.360 --> 06:39.880 would disgrace Grand General's spirit! 06:39.880 --> 06:41.560 We dream of avenging him! 06:41.560 --> 06:42.880 We'd gladly give our lives for it! 06:42.880 --> 06:45.480 If we knew who the murderer was, we'd have exacted revenge! 06:45.480 --> 06:48.680 Young General! 06:50.560 --> 06:53.880 If you still see me as your young general, 06:53.880 --> 06:56.160 here's my order: 06:56.160 --> 06:59.360 Duke of Ding's army is disbanded, effective immediately! 06:59.360 --> 07:00.680 What? 07:00.680 --> 07:02.760 Disband? 07:02.760 --> 07:06.560 Officers ranked vice commander and above, follow me to the tent for a council. 07:07.440 --> 07:10.200 - I'm not going anywhere. - Me, too. 07:12.280 --> 07:15.360 You all have shown unwavering loyalty to my uncle, 07:15.360 --> 07:18.480 so I will not deceive you. 07:18.480 --> 07:22.080 Though the imperial judgment has been issued, the true mastermind remains at large. 07:22.080 --> 07:25.480 I intend to uncover the truth and take vengeance on the real killer. 07:25.480 --> 07:27.280 This path will be fraught with danger. 07:27.280 --> 07:30.880 From now on, you can no longer serve as soldiers in the open, 07:30.880 --> 07:33.280 but must serve as agents in the shadows. 07:34.680 --> 07:37.280 We knew you wouldn't abandon us! 07:37.280 --> 07:39.960 For over a decade, we've been stationed at the border, 07:39.960 --> 07:42.280 knowing little of the inner workings of the court. 07:42.280 --> 07:44.880 That ignorance has left us vulnerable to schemes time and again. 07:44.880 --> 07:47.880 Now, whether it's to overturn the case 07:47.880 --> 07:50.880 or preserve a remnant of the Duke of Ding's army, 07:50.880 --> 07:55.280 we must plant our eyes and ears within the court. 07:55.280 --> 07:57.480 Young General, just give the orders. 07:57.480 --> 07:59.560 Bring the wine! 08:02.360 --> 08:04.360 A force of 50,000 is too conspicuous. 08:04.360 --> 08:07.280 Select the 500 most elite soldiers to follow me to the capital. 08:07.280 --> 08:11.960 The rest will disperse as ordered, laying low to preserve our strength 08:11.960 --> 08:15.080 until the time comes to rise again. 08:15.080 --> 08:17.160 The 53,000 soldiers of the Duke of Ding's army 08:17.160 --> 08:19.760 are ready to go through hell and high water for this cause! 08:19.760 --> 08:22.480 Through hell and high water! 08:22.480 --> 08:25.080 - Drink! - Drink! 08:42.160 --> 08:44.440 [Futing, Miao family's warehouse] Stop fighting for it! 08:45.280 --> 08:46.760 We've just been released. 08:46.760 --> 08:48.320 We're victims in this, too. 08:48.320 --> 08:51.720 The charges of colluding with the enemy have been cleared. 08:51.720 --> 08:53.840 What you're doing is outright robbery! 08:53.840 --> 08:56.680 - Don't take that way. - Please don't take that away! 08:56.680 --> 08:59.320 Madam Liu! You only invested 10 taels, 08:59.320 --> 09:02.160 but this bag of jewelry and jade is worth 50 or 60 taels! 09:02.160 --> 09:05.440 Your family didn't pay back the money on time, don't we deserve a little interest? 09:05.440 --> 09:07.360 Move! 09:11.440 --> 09:14.720 According to the law, breaking into a house to rob is a serious crime. 09:14.720 --> 09:17.880 Even if you fail, it's 20 lashes and three years of exile. 09:17.880 --> 09:21.560 If you do succeed, you're looking at either exile or the noose. 09:21.560 --> 09:25.040 And committing this in broad daylight? That makes it even worse. 09:28.920 --> 09:31.400 They owe us money. Isn't it only fair that we take what we're owed? 09:31.400 --> 09:33.120 Oh, is that so? 09:33.120 --> 09:34.720 Fair, you say? 09:34.720 --> 09:37.680 Is it also fair to smash things and hurt people? 09:37.680 --> 09:40.920 Hurting someone? The punishment for that is even harsher. 09:40.920 --> 09:44.080 What choice do we have? 09:44.080 --> 09:47.440 Our goods rotted away on those impounded ships. 09:47.440 --> 09:49.600 Everything we worked so hard for is gone! 09:49.600 --> 09:52.600 - That's right. - Yes. 09:58.840 --> 10:02.160 I am Dou Zhao, a daughter of the Dou family from the capital, 10:02.160 --> 10:04.480 and also the master of the Miao family. 10:04.480 --> 10:08.600 I will sign an agreement right now to settle this debt in ten days. 10:10.840 --> 10:13.200 This jade bracelet is a family heirloom, 10:13.200 --> 10:15.520 and I'll leave it with the authorities as collateral. 10:15.520 --> 10:19.120 I'll pay you back in ten days. 10:20.800 --> 10:24.120 That's your mother's keepsake. You can't! 10:26.800 --> 10:30.080 If you trust me, sign the agreement. 10:30.080 --> 10:33.400 If not, come with me to the authorities. 10:33.400 --> 10:35.240 Let's see who owes more, the Miao family 10:35.240 --> 10:38.840 or you all with your looting, smashing, and injuries. 10:44.880 --> 10:47.720 - I'll sign. - Me too. 10:48.960 --> 10:50.880 Me as well. 11:01.960 --> 11:05.720 [Dou Zhao] 11:09.360 --> 11:11.440 Hang in there. 11:13.920 --> 11:16.680 Luckily, the wound isn't deep. 11:18.200 --> 11:22.320 Sister Zhao, I can't let you pawn your bracelet for those people. 11:22.320 --> 11:26.120 You came all the way to Futing for me. I'm grateful to you. 11:26.120 --> 11:28.520 This is my burden to bear. 11:28.520 --> 11:31.680 I'll go to the pawnshop and sell the warehouse and store, 11:31.680 --> 11:33.440 whatever it takes to get your bracelet back. 11:33.440 --> 11:35.560 Pawnshops wodn't recognize their true value. 11:35.560 --> 11:39.600 What's a store or warehouse compared to you? 11:39.600 --> 11:43.040 Why don't you just pawn yourself to me instead? 11:44.040 --> 11:46.200 That works, too. 11:46.200 --> 11:51.120 At the going rate for a steward's wages, I'd need to work for you 11:51.120 --> 11:54.160 for 3,224 days. 11:54.160 --> 11:57.720 That's about eight or nine years, it should be enough to pay it off. 11:57.720 --> 11:59.960 I'm kidding. 11:59.960 --> 12:04.960 If my mother knew her bracelet was being put to such good use, she'd be thrilled. 12:04.960 --> 12:06.440 Don't worry about it. 12:06.440 --> 12:10.680 I'm the richest person in Zhending, do you really think I can't get a bracelet back? 12:18.840 --> 12:21.280 Here it says the six-percent interest was supposed to cover goods purchased, 12:21.280 --> 12:23.120 but the accounts don't add up. 12:23.120 --> 12:24.800 Where are the goods? 12:26.120 --> 12:30.600 I invested it as stock in a food shop. 12:30.600 --> 12:32.840 Investing in a food shop during a famine year? 12:32.840 --> 12:37.560 Brilliant move, turning gold into dust. 12:37.560 --> 12:40.680 - We still have Ansu's dowry, don't we? - You good-for-nothing! 12:40.680 --> 12:42.480 Stop eyeing your sister's dowry. 12:42.480 --> 12:47.440 She's of marrying age, how is she supposed to get married without money? 12:47.440 --> 12:49.200 What about Anping then? 12:49.200 --> 12:51.000 Anping is sitting for the imperial exam this year. 12:51.000 --> 12:53.680 Are you going to let him beg his way there? 12:53.680 --> 12:59.080 If it means paying off the debt, then so be it, dowry or no dowry. 12:59.080 --> 13:03.080 My dowry exists thanks to Zhao's kindness. 13:03.080 --> 13:07.640 And now I'll use it to settle the debt and spare her from trouble. 13:08.960 --> 13:10.280 It's not just for Anping. 13:10.280 --> 13:13.560 Ansu, are you really fine with it? 13:13.560 --> 13:15.480 I'm not. 13:18.800 --> 13:20.560 Sister Zhao. 13:21.320 --> 13:24.600 There's still a lot of goods on the ship. Have you taken inventory? 13:24.600 --> 13:28.240 Things just settled down, and the local authorities in Futing are still in chaos. 13:28.240 --> 13:30.720 I haven't had the chance to do it yet. 13:32.120 --> 13:34.800 [Dou's Residence] 13:34.800 --> 13:40.080 Fifth Brother, Yingxue insisted I ask about Ming and Dezhen's engagement. 13:40.080 --> 13:43.880 She said if we have my father-in-law mediate, 13:43.880 --> 13:46.920 Grand Secretary Wu might agree. 13:52.040 --> 13:56.240 - A letter from Mu Chuan? - He has just risen to the Grand Secretariat. 13:56.240 --> 13:58.960 Most of the old allies of the Duke of Ding in the previous administration 13:58.960 --> 14:01.040 have retired to their hometowns. 14:01.040 --> 14:04.400 Wu Yifen is advanced in years. 14:04.400 --> 14:06.880 How much longer can he hold on? 14:08.080 --> 14:10.320 What are you trying to say? 14:10.320 --> 14:13.400 That faction's influence is fading fast. 14:13.400 --> 14:17.840 The Wu family's standing will inevitably collapse. 14:18.480 --> 14:21.240 Is there still a point in forming ties with them? 14:22.000 --> 14:27.840 You should have Yingxue focus on strengthening connections with the Wei family instead. 14:28.520 --> 14:32.680 [Cui's Residence] 14:38.600 --> 14:40.280 Come. 14:44.360 --> 14:46.600 Now that you've delivered the gifts, you can go. 14:46.600 --> 14:50.960 If you stay longer and catch an illness, you'll blame it on Shougu again. 14:50.960 --> 14:53.920 It's rude to kick people out right after receiving gifts. 14:53.920 --> 14:56.200 Even if Fourth Young Lady isn't up to seeing guests, 14:56.200 --> 14:59.960 she could at least say thank you. 15:00.880 --> 15:02.800 This is the Dou family's business. 15:02.800 --> 15:08.040 Shouldn't you consider your identity first if you want to meddle? 15:08.040 --> 15:11.400 - I'll have you know... - Can I meddle then? 15:11.400 --> 15:13.560 Grandmother. 15:13.560 --> 15:17.600 You're causing trouble here in broad day light. 15:17.600 --> 15:21.680 In all these years, you've barely delivered gifts during festivals. 15:21.680 --> 15:27.160 Now that both Shougu and I are unwell, what are you scheming? 15:27.160 --> 15:29.120 Mother, you've misunderstood. 15:29.120 --> 15:31.440 I heard that Zhao came down with smallpox, 15:31.440 --> 15:34.280 so I specially went to the temple to get a smallpox protection statue. 15:34.280 --> 15:39.320 This isn't like other gifts, it must be personally enshrined by Zhao herself, 15:39.320 --> 15:42.240 or it won't be effective. 15:42.240 --> 15:45.360 Guardian idols and deities? I've never believed in these things. 15:45.360 --> 15:48.120 - Take it all away. - That won't do, Mother. 15:48.120 --> 15:50.080 Inviting the gods is easy, but sending them away is difficult. 15:50.080 --> 15:53.640 Neglecting the statue could harm the family's fortune. 15:53.640 --> 15:57.880 I'm sure Zhao wouldn't want that to happen, would she? 15:57.880 --> 16:00.840 Fourth Young Lady, just show yourself... 16:01.760 --> 16:03.280 Stop! 16:03.280 --> 16:06.440 Smallpox patients must avoid drafts. Cover her up at once. 16:06.440 --> 16:08.280 Yes, Grandmother. 16:08.280 --> 16:10.480 Fine, I'll accept these gifts on Shougu's behalf. 16:10.480 --> 16:14.040 I'm sure things are busy for you in the capital, so I won't keep you. 16:14.040 --> 16:19.240 If there's nothing else, you should leave, and don't come back again. 16:19.240 --> 16:22.680 Old Madam, our mistress only came with the best intentions. 16:22.680 --> 16:24.480 Nanny Zhou. 16:25.120 --> 16:29.080 Please pass the statue to Zhao, Mother. 16:29.080 --> 16:31.880 We'll take our leave now. 16:53.280 --> 16:55.000 -Move. -Grandmother... 16:55.000 --> 16:56.880 Move! 17:01.440 --> 17:03.920 What's going on? 17:03.920 --> 17:07.880 Shougu... She went to freshen up. She'll be back soon. 17:07.880 --> 17:11.360 At this point, you can stop covering for her. 17:12.160 --> 17:15.040 Shougu is in Futing. 17:17.600 --> 17:21.440 Futing is a highly sensitive area right now. What's she doing there? 17:21.440 --> 17:25.400 Does... Does she have something to do with that case, too? 17:25.400 --> 17:28.320 The Maritime Trade Office seized the Miao family's merchant ship. 17:28.320 --> 17:32.920 Shougu was worried about Ansu going alone, so she... 17:33.760 --> 17:36.360 Ridiculous! 17:36.360 --> 17:39.560 - You girls... Absolutely ridiculous! - All right now, all right. 17:39.560 --> 17:42.560 Madam, are we leaving already? Shouldn't we take a closer look? 17:42.560 --> 17:44.360 Didn't you notice just now? 17:44.360 --> 17:47.480 That hand was smooth and flawless. 17:47.480 --> 17:51.560 If she really had smallpox, how could there not be any rash? 17:51.560 --> 17:54.520 Our trip here wasn't wasted after all. 17:54.520 --> 17:57.960 Ah, I see. 17:57.960 --> 18:00.360 Let's go back to the capital. 18:00.360 --> 18:01.480 [Dou Residence] 18:01.480 --> 18:04.160 That Zhao is brazen and reckless. 18:04.160 --> 18:07.360 As a young lady from a noble family, she not only shows her face in public, 18:07.360 --> 18:10.080 she even went to Futing on her own. 18:10.080 --> 18:14.400 Futing is in chaos right now because of the Duke of Ding case. 18:14.400 --> 18:16.960 I hear there have been outbreaks of unrest among refugees lately. 18:16.960 --> 18:19.200 Oh, Zhao... 18:19.200 --> 18:23.920 Master. Madam. The Marquis of Jining's family has invited you both 18:23.920 --> 18:26.480 and the young ladies to a banquet tomorrow. 18:26.480 --> 18:29.320 We can't possibly attend a banquet now. 18:29.320 --> 18:30.880 Since it's a specially arranged banquet, 18:30.880 --> 18:33.680 they might want to discuss the betrothal. 18:33.680 --> 18:36.880 Decline it. We'll talk about it after I bring Shougu back. 18:36.920 --> 18:38.680 Someone, prepare the carriage. 18:38.680 --> 18:41.320 We mustn't decline it, Husband. 18:41.320 --> 18:44.760 If word of Zhao went to Futing gets out, 18:44.760 --> 18:50.160 not just her own marriage prospect, it will ruin Ming'er's too. 18:50.160 --> 18:54.800 How about we say you and the girls have caught a cold, 18:54.800 --> 18:57.080 and I'll attend the banquet alone? 18:58.760 --> 19:01.280 Fine, I'll leave it to you. 19:01.280 --> 19:03.800 Handle it as you see fit. I should get going. 19:03.800 --> 19:05.520 Yes, my dear. 19:11.440 --> 19:14.000 This side dish is quite unique. 19:15.080 --> 19:17.560 Is it a specialty of Futing? 19:17.560 --> 19:20.960 I found a lot of spoiled food when we were clearing out the inventory. 19:20.960 --> 19:23.800 But there was a crate of tubers from the West that hadn't gone bad. 19:23.800 --> 19:25.600 I roasted a few of them. 19:25.600 --> 19:28.400 They're soft, fragrant, 19:28.400 --> 19:30.120 and a bit like yams. 19:30.120 --> 19:34.640 But many of them have sprouted. We can't eat or sell them anymore. 19:35.160 --> 19:37.240 We can't eat them... 19:37.920 --> 19:39.920 But we can plant them! 19:40.880 --> 19:44.120 If they sprout even in the damp, dark conditions of a ship's hold, 19:44.120 --> 19:46.600 they must be easy to grow. 19:47.200 --> 19:49.720 If you plant them now, 19:49.720 --> 19:53.000 you could have a harvest in about three months. 19:53.000 --> 19:56.160 So, don't rush to repay me just yet. 19:56.160 --> 19:59.400 Use it to rent some unused land and start planting. 19:59.400 --> 20:03.000 With all the floods this year, food is already in short supply. 20:03.000 --> 20:06.560 If you grow enough, not only will you feed people, 20:06.560 --> 20:10.240 but you'll also introduce a new food crop. 20:10.240 --> 20:12.680 No grain merchant would turn that away. 20:18.200 --> 20:21.120 At 50 coins per jin for white flour, 20:21.120 --> 20:23.960 one mu of land could yield around 300 jin. 20:23.960 --> 20:27.880 With ten mu of land in a year, that's over a hundred taels of silver! 20:27.880 --> 20:29.280 That's a great idea. 20:29.280 --> 20:31.040 Let's do it your way. 20:31.040 --> 20:33.120 What good stuff do you have there? 20:33.960 --> 20:37.280 Ji Yong, you scared us again. 20:37.280 --> 20:39.240 You got food here. 20:42.040 --> 20:43.600 Try it. 20:46.800 --> 20:48.040 Not bad. 20:48.040 --> 20:50.040 But it can be sweeter. 20:50.640 --> 20:54.400 Young Master Ji, why are you wearing such a scary mask? 20:54.400 --> 20:55.800 It attracts fortune. 20:55.800 --> 20:58.000 I'm here to bring you money. 20:58.000 --> 21:00.040 You've made the deal? What's the price? 21:00.040 --> 21:01.800 Who's the buyer? 21:01.800 --> 21:04.640 Want to see it? Beg me. 21:07.480 --> 21:10.640 - Please. - You actually begged? 21:10.640 --> 21:12.640 Well, that's no fun. 21:16.400 --> 21:17.880 Look. 21:19.680 --> 21:22.360 The Ministry of Works is paying so much for the ship! 21:22.360 --> 21:25.720 The court has never bought civilian ships before! 21:25.720 --> 21:28.720 If it weren't an unprecedented move, I wouldn't have bothered. 21:28.720 --> 21:32.360 I submitted a proposal to Duke Mu Chuan advocating for reforms in maritime trade, 21:32.360 --> 21:34.360 selling civilian ships to the government 21:34.360 --> 21:36.720 and consolidating overseas trade under the court's control. 21:36.720 --> 21:40.200 This way, we can ease people's burden and replenish the national treasury. 21:41.600 --> 21:43.920 Thank you, Young Master Ji. 21:43.920 --> 21:47.840 No need to thank me. Mu Chuan only agreed to see me because Dou Zhao 21:47.840 --> 21:49.880 sent the invitation under the Dou family's name. 21:49.880 --> 21:53.640 - Sister Zhao... - No need for thanks between us. 21:53.640 --> 21:58.680 Now that the crisis is over, let's go back together tomorrow. 21:58.680 --> 22:03.720 Sister Zhao, I can't go back with you. 22:03.720 --> 22:05.520 Every year during the sailing season, 22:05.520 --> 22:09.400 I'd come here with my parents to oil and polish the ship. 22:09.400 --> 22:13.600 From a small boat to a big ship, now it's all gone in an instant. 22:14.360 --> 22:16.520 It's time for me to grow up. 22:17.080 --> 22:20.800 You're staying in Futing to help with the family business? 22:20.800 --> 22:22.600 Sister Zhao, 22:23.280 --> 22:26.200 I won't let you down. 22:26.200 --> 22:28.280 What I've lost today, 22:28.760 --> 22:30.840 I'll earn back in the future! 22:30.840 --> 22:32.640 All right! 22:32.640 --> 22:34.600 Let's wish for our wishes to come true, 22:34.600 --> 22:38.160 and for the days ahead to be peaceful, free, and full of joy. 22:38.160 --> 22:41.040 Peaceful, free, and full of joy! 22:41.040 --> 22:42.840 Free and full of joy! 22:50.360 --> 22:52.360 Greetings, Duke Mu. 22:53.080 --> 22:54.800 Greetings, Duke Mu. 22:54.800 --> 22:57.200 [Minister of Works, Mu Chuan] 22:58.480 --> 23:00.720 This way, please, Lord Mu. 23:11.880 --> 23:14.840 This idea of selling the ships is priceless. 23:14.840 --> 23:17.280 I owe you a huge favor. 23:18.120 --> 23:20.560 What favor? It was just a game. 23:20.560 --> 23:23.800 The fun I had was worth more than any fortune. 23:24.920 --> 23:27.720 Besides, I won Mu Chuan's favor with the proposal. He submitted it to His Majesty under his name. 23:27.720 --> 23:32.120 In return, he recommended me for the position of secretary at the prince's residence. 23:32.120 --> 23:34.000 That role is low-ranking and full of tedious responsibilities. 23:34.000 --> 23:36.040 You'll have to guide and advise the prince 23:36.040 --> 23:38.200 while also reporting regularly to His Majesty. 23:38.200 --> 23:40.480 It's a thankless job that pleases no one. 23:40.480 --> 23:43.800 The harder the job, the easier it is to stand out. 23:43.800 --> 23:45.720 I prefer to work smart, not hard. 23:45.720 --> 23:48.720 I'm not about to let myself rot away like those unsold goods on the ship. 23:48.720 --> 23:50.880 Since the crown prince isn't favored, 23:50.880 --> 23:54.640 I might as well take a bigger gamble and support another prince. 23:57.200 --> 24:00.280 You're going to the Prince Qing Residence? 24:01.440 --> 24:05.520 The crown prince's mother, Empress Shen, came from a humble background and passed away early. 24:05.520 --> 24:07.600 He doesn't have many allies among the court officials. 24:07.600 --> 24:10.880 Prince Qing, on the other hand, is known for valuing talent, holds military power in Liaodong, 24:10.880 --> 24:13.400 and his mother, Empress Wan, is favored by His Majesty. 24:13.400 --> 24:17.200 With me on his side, his chances of surpassing the crown prince are much higher. 24:19.040 --> 24:22.080 I once heard that Prince Qing's rebellion succeeded 24:22.080 --> 24:25.760 thanks to an extraordinarily brilliant strategist by his side. 24:25.760 --> 24:27.640 Could it be him? 24:27.640 --> 24:30.720 If Ji Yong goes to Liaodong to assist Prince Qing, 24:30.720 --> 24:33.640 will he meet a tragic end again because of it? 24:33.640 --> 24:37.280 I'd advise you to think it through carefully. 24:38.160 --> 24:40.840 I'll be straight with you. 24:40.840 --> 24:43.280 Prince Qing is rebellious, he'll overthrow the throne one day. 24:43.280 --> 24:46.080 Don't forget why you entered officialdom in the first place. 24:47.560 --> 24:51.840 If he rebels, wouldn't that align perfectly with my original intent? 24:58.720 --> 25:00.680 You've known all along... 25:00.680 --> 25:06.640 What happens in the future, heaven knows, earth knows, I know, and you know. 25:06.640 --> 25:08.680 I observe the world without being controlled by it. 25:08.680 --> 25:12.720 Princes and kings, in my hands, are nothing more than tools to a greater vision. 25:12.720 --> 25:15.000 The court is decayed, 25:15.000 --> 25:17.160 foreign enemies are poised to strike, 25:17.160 --> 25:20.240 and all I want is someone who recognizes my worth 25:20.240 --> 25:22.040 and grants me the power to enact reform. 25:22.040 --> 25:24.360 Healing individuals is a small matter, 25:24.360 --> 25:27.240 healing a nation is where my true strategy lies. 25:27.240 --> 25:30.880 I can extend this dynasty's life by a hundred years. 25:35.560 --> 25:38.320 Uncle Mu, they're here. 25:44.320 --> 25:48.320 So, these are the tubers you mentioned in your letter, the ones that don't spoil easily? 25:48.320 --> 25:50.480 The people of Futing call it a potato. 25:50.480 --> 25:55.760 Many of the other goods were ruined after the delay, but these remained intact. 25:58.480 --> 26:00.800 Looks like this crop 26:00.800 --> 26:04.080 is far more valuable than... 26:05.360 --> 26:07.480 the rest of the cargo on the ship. 26:07.480 --> 26:09.000 Here. 26:10.080 --> 26:13.360 This strawberry ice dessert is only available in Futing. 26:13.360 --> 26:15.800 Once I go to Liaodong, there'll be no chance to have it. 26:15.800 --> 26:19.240 Didn't you say that strawberry ice dessert is too cold for the stomach 26:19.240 --> 26:21.320 and can make you feel lightheaded if you eat too much? 26:21.320 --> 26:25.040 Silly. If you get sick, I'll just treat you. 26:25.040 --> 26:26.520 Eat up. 26:27.200 --> 26:31.360 Real men drink wine and eat meat. 26:31.360 --> 26:33.320 Look at that grown man 26:33.320 --> 26:37.400 eating dainty sweets fit for women and children. 26:37.400 --> 26:40.320 So now taste preferences come with gender labels, too? 26:40.320 --> 26:42.720 How childish. 26:42.720 --> 26:44.400 You two might drink and eat meat, 26:44.400 --> 26:48.920 does it make you conquer battlefields or govern a nation? 26:48.920 --> 26:50.560 How arrogant! 26:50.560 --> 26:54.440 Young Lady, he's clearly not a suitable match! 26:54.440 --> 26:57.120 Right! Unlike you two, you're perfect for each other. 26:57.120 --> 26:58.800 You... 26:58.800 --> 27:01.040 Don't be mad. Let's drink. 27:01.040 --> 27:02.760 Drink. 27:03.600 --> 27:06.120 - Here. - By the way, 27:07.600 --> 27:09.200 I got this for you. 27:10.160 --> 27:12.920 The snow in Liaodong is heavy, and there are many hunting pits. 27:12.920 --> 27:15.560 I've noticed you always squint when you look at things. 27:15.560 --> 27:17.480 I figured your eyesight isn't great. 27:17.480 --> 27:21.080 I went around the capital and found this for you. 27:22.000 --> 27:24.320 Consider it a parting gift. 27:25.120 --> 27:27.280 You even noticed that? 27:39.480 --> 27:41.320 Looking up close now, 27:41.320 --> 27:43.480 you're actually not that ugly. 27:45.960 --> 27:48.800 All right, I'll give you something in return. 27:48.800 --> 27:52.160 I always save the strawberry on my ice dessert for the last 27:52.160 --> 27:55.040 because I can't bear to eat them right away. 27:55.040 --> 27:56.720 I'll give it to you now. 28:01.400 --> 28:03.000 Shougu. 28:03.720 --> 28:05.000 Father? 28:05.000 --> 28:07.000 - Are you all right? - What are you doing here? 28:07.000 --> 28:08.600 If we had come any later, 28:08.600 --> 28:12.080 you'd have probably turned Futing upside down by now. 28:12.080 --> 28:14.680 - Fifth Uncle. - You really are something. 28:14.680 --> 28:17.480 Disgracing the family and running off to elope. 28:17.480 --> 28:20.200 You found yourself the perfect match, huh? 28:20.800 --> 28:24.840 Shougu, a young lady like you traveling all the way to Futing on your own, 28:24.840 --> 28:26.760 do you have any idea how worried we've been? 28:26.760 --> 28:29.520 Father. Fifth Uncle. 28:30.520 --> 28:33.840 This is Ji Yong, a cousin of the Cui family from Jian'an. 28:33.840 --> 28:36.920 He's also the official in charge of Maritime Trade Office's cases. 28:36.920 --> 28:39.120 Ah, so you're Master Ji's son. 28:39.120 --> 28:41.360 Greetings, uncles. 28:43.000 --> 28:45.680 You've truly gone to great lengths to disgrace our family's name 28:45.680 --> 28:47.680 all the way here in Futing! 28:47.680 --> 28:50.920 I came to Futing to help the Miao family out of their predicament. 28:50.920 --> 28:54.960 I'm the investor of Ansu's family shipping business. 28:54.960 --> 28:57.560 I couldn't just sit back and do nothing. 28:57.560 --> 29:01.200 What morals and obligations outweigh propriety and decency? 29:01.200 --> 29:05.680 An unmarried young lady like you are supposed to be staying at home preparing for marriage, 29:05.680 --> 29:06.840 This is disgraceful! 29:06.840 --> 29:10.120 The Miao family were mere tenant farmers on an estate. 29:10.120 --> 29:13.040 Now they're merchants, a world apart from you. 29:13.040 --> 29:14.400 You don't have a friend like her. 29:14.400 --> 29:17.600 Didn't our own Dou family of the North rise from being peddlers? 29:17.600 --> 29:21.400 Later, to establish hierarchy, we divided into the Eastern and Western Dou branches. 29:21.400 --> 29:24.040 Should we also disown our ancestors for their humble beginnings? 29:24.040 --> 29:27.240 You... You dare debate family heritage with me? 29:27.240 --> 29:29.160 - You're out of line! - Fifth Brother... 29:29.160 --> 29:30.520 Calm down. 29:30.520 --> 29:34.280 Fifth Uncle, Dou Zhao contributed strategies to resolving the maritime trade crisis. 29:34.280 --> 29:37.200 She is considered a servant of the court. You can't hit her. 29:37.200 --> 29:39.200 Stay out of this. 29:39.200 --> 29:41.120 Ungrateful child! 29:41.120 --> 29:45.240 Do you even know your grandmother has been sick for days because of you? 29:45.240 --> 29:47.120 What happened to Grandmother? 29:49.160 --> 29:50.560 What's wrong with her? 29:50.560 --> 29:53.160 Your grandmother fell ill from missing you too much. 29:53.160 --> 29:54.960 Yingxue is taking care of her now. 29:54.960 --> 29:56.360 Wang Yingxue? 29:56.360 --> 29:59.320 You're so full of ideas and so capable. 29:59.320 --> 30:02.000 What does the death of a family member even mean to someone like you? 30:02.000 --> 30:04.640 Fifth Uncle, I've learned my lesson now. 30:04.640 --> 30:06.640 Traveling to Futing was a mistake. 30:06.640 --> 30:08.200 I'll accept any punishment you see fit. 30:08.200 --> 30:11.920 Please just allow me to return home quickly to care for Grandmother. 30:14.320 --> 30:17.360 Deliver this letter to the local authorities 30:17.360 --> 30:20.880 and make it clear that our family's legitimate daughter was never in Futing. 30:20.880 --> 30:22.600 Got it. 30:31.440 --> 30:35.800 Father. Fifth Uncle. I know Grandmother's condition best. 30:35.800 --> 30:38.760 This can't be delayed. Why don't we set out tonight? 30:38.760 --> 30:41.280 Now you feel the urgency? 30:41.280 --> 30:44.680 Your mother is looking after her now. There's no rush. 30:44.680 --> 30:49.520 But your father and I have traveled a long way, 30:49.520 --> 30:51.680 pulling countless strings, 30:51.680 --> 30:56.160 all for the sake of protecting you. 30:57.040 --> 30:59.480 I understand completely, Uncle. 30:59.480 --> 31:04.880 I will hand over all my private assets in Futing to the family to atone for my mistakes. 31:07.480 --> 31:09.000 What nonsense! 31:09.000 --> 31:10.920 Do you think your father and I 31:10.920 --> 31:13.200 came all this way just to take over your meager assets? 31:13.200 --> 31:15.280 That's not what I meant. 31:15.280 --> 31:18.000 I'm willing to return home, stay under house arrest, 31:18.000 --> 31:20.720 and fully submitting to the guidance of my elders. 31:22.040 --> 31:23.920 Shougu means well. 31:23.920 --> 31:27.400 Fifth Brother, why don't we set out now? 31:29.840 --> 31:31.840 We've traveled far and deserve a few days of rest. 31:31.840 --> 31:33.720 We've traveled far and deserve a few days of rest. 31:33.720 --> 31:35.640 But fine. 31:35.640 --> 31:38.440 We'll rest tonight and leave at dawn. 31:38.440 --> 31:40.440 Thank you, Fifth Uncle. 32:02.600 --> 32:04.640 [Tea] 32:05.480 --> 32:07.360 Sir, what can I get for you? 32:07.360 --> 32:09.160 Sir, what can I get for you? 32:34.840 --> 32:37.800 We could've stayed overnight in Wu Town, 32:37.800 --> 32:40.160 but she insisted on traveling without rest. 32:40.160 --> 32:43.720 Now we're stuck in the middle of nowhere! 32:44.280 --> 32:47.640 Fifth Brother, have some water and calm down. 32:48.640 --> 32:51.680 Shougu is just eager to see her grandmother. 32:51.680 --> 32:54.400 She's just really worried about her. 32:54.400 --> 32:59.000 Since everyone's tired, let's set up camp here for the night. 33:01.760 --> 33:05.360 Fifth Master. Seventh Master. Tthere's a military camp just ahead. 33:16.160 --> 33:19.480 Are you Fifth Master and Seventh Master from the Dou family? 33:20.320 --> 33:21.720 Yes, that's us. 33:21.720 --> 33:24.040 And how are you, sir? 33:24.040 --> 33:26.640 Greetings, my lords. We are troops stationed on the outskirts. 33:26.640 --> 33:30.560 The camp ahead is a rest area our army has prepared for travelers on the road. 33:30.560 --> 33:33.640 You can rest there without concern. 33:33.640 --> 33:35.920 We wouldn't dare impose on military's duties. 33:35.920 --> 33:38.440 Serving you well is part of our duty. 33:38.440 --> 33:42.560 Food and wine will be brought shortly. Please don't refuse. 33:45.440 --> 33:47.480 Thank you then, General. 33:47.480 --> 33:49.160 This way, please. 33:50.080 --> 33:51.720 You must be weary from your long journey. 33:51.720 --> 33:53.280 Thank you for your trouble. 33:53.280 --> 33:55.080 - You're welcome. - Enjoy. 34:00.560 --> 34:02.600 This meal is quite lavish. 34:02.600 --> 34:06.840 It's almost too lavish, it doesn't feel like something a military camp would prepare. 34:06.840 --> 34:08.960 - Thank you. - Let me fill your glass. 34:08.960 --> 34:10.360 Thank you. 34:12.440 --> 34:14.760 Young Lady, traveling in such a rush might have upset your stomach. 34:14.760 --> 34:16.560 It's best to avoid these heavy, greasy dishes. 34:16.560 --> 34:19.360 I'll go and see if they have some light porridge. 34:32.760 --> 34:34.360 Oh... 34:46.600 --> 34:50.680 Officer, may I know what time it is now? 34:50.680 --> 34:53.680 It's the hour of the Yin, Fourth Young Lady. 34:55.120 --> 34:57.280 Fourth Young Lady? 34:57.280 --> 34:59.440 They're Futing soldiers. 34:59.440 --> 35:03.360 If I'm not mistaken, they're the Duke of Ding's army. 35:03.360 --> 35:06.280 What's the Duke of Ding's army doing in Hanzhou? 35:06.280 --> 35:08.280 I'll explain later. 35:19.960 --> 35:23.920 [Yuzhou] 35:25.960 --> 35:27.800 Travel permit, please. Where are you sending these? 35:27.800 --> 35:29.800 The market. 35:29.800 --> 35:31.600 Thank you. 35:42.840 --> 35:45.920 Seventh Master, they say as bandits have been rampant in Yuzhou City, 35:45.920 --> 35:48.400 we need a travel permit to enter the city. 35:48.400 --> 35:51.680 We left in such a rush. We haven't prepared any travel permits. 35:51.680 --> 35:54.720 Su Lan, I bet someone has made arrangements for us. 35:54.720 --> 35:56.560 Call Gao Sheng over. 35:58.640 --> 36:00.360 Young Lady. 36:00.360 --> 36:02.160 Tell the guards that your masters 36:02.160 --> 36:05.880 are the officials from the Ministry of Rites returning to the capital on assignment. 36:05.880 --> 36:07.440 See if that gets us through. 36:07.440 --> 36:10.280 - Have you checked the goods? - All good. 36:10.280 --> 36:13.520 Sir, could you allow my master to pass first? 36:13.520 --> 36:15.520 What's your master's official position? 36:15.520 --> 36:18.520 Dou Shishu, an official from the Ministry of Rites. 36:19.840 --> 36:21.520 Lord Dou from the Ministry of Rites? 36:21.520 --> 36:23.560 Yes. 36:23.560 --> 36:26.760 Clear the way! Let them through! 36:26.760 --> 36:28.760 Clear the way! 36:30.800 --> 36:32.880 When we passed through Yuzhou City before, 36:32.880 --> 36:34.960 we'd never been given such priority. 36:36.440 --> 36:38.560 What's going on here? 36:38.560 --> 36:41.880 My Lord, they say it was an order from above, 36:41.880 --> 36:44.360 that Lord Dou from the Ministry of Rites is to be given priority passage. 36:44.360 --> 36:46.360 Really? 36:56.680 --> 37:01.080 Believe me, this has nothing to do with either of us. 37:51.440 --> 37:53.640 Young Lady, the wheel is stuck. 37:53.640 --> 37:55.320 Why have we stopped? 37:55.320 --> 37:57.800 Fourth Young Lady's carriage is stuck. 38:08.920 --> 38:11.760 They're coming to rob us! 38:18.960 --> 38:20.720 Shougu! 38:20.720 --> 38:23.120 Give me a hand here! 38:23.120 --> 38:25.760 One, two, three! 38:25.760 --> 38:28.480 One, two, three! 38:28.480 --> 38:31.960 One, two, three! 38:41.480 --> 38:43.400 Who are you? 38:43.400 --> 38:45.240 We're villagers from around here. 38:45.240 --> 38:46.520 The roads here are uneven. 38:46.520 --> 38:49.920 When it rains, carriages often get stuck. 38:49.920 --> 38:52.720 We're just here to lend a hand pushing them out. 38:53.880 --> 38:55.600 Thank you all. 38:55.600 --> 39:00.600 Su Lan, give them some silver pieces as a token of appreciation. 39:01.360 --> 39:03.960 We're not here for rewards, just to help. 39:03.960 --> 39:05.400 There are more of us ahead. 39:05.400 --> 39:08.280 Wishing you a safe journey, Fourth Young Lady. 39:08.280 --> 39:11.000 Let's go. 39:14.040 --> 39:16.040 How do they all know to call you Fourth Young Lady? 39:16.040 --> 39:18.840 Don't say anything. Get in. 39:20.040 --> 39:21.440 I rarely travel far, 39:21.440 --> 39:24.880 but seeing this now, we're really living in a time of peace. 39:24.880 --> 39:27.400 What time of peace? 39:27.400 --> 39:29.920 They're here especially for your daughter. 39:29.920 --> 39:33.400 God knows how she got involved with those unsavory people. 39:34.920 --> 39:37.040 Fourth Young Lady is a kind and generous person. 39:37.040 --> 39:39.560 Heaven is always looking out for her. 39:40.840 --> 39:42.520 You must be joking, Fifth Brother. 39:42.520 --> 39:45.120 How could Shougu possibly know them? 39:45.120 --> 39:47.040 Let's keep moving. 39:52.640 --> 39:56.760 [Cui Residence] 40:07.920 --> 40:09.560 Shougu. 40:10.240 --> 40:12.040 Fifth Brother. 40:12.680 --> 40:14.760 Aren't you going in to visit Mother? 40:14.760 --> 40:16.960 Are you really going in the estate? 40:16.960 --> 40:18.640 What about your work at the Ministry of Revenue? 40:18.640 --> 40:20.800 But Mother is still ill. 40:20.800 --> 40:22.360 And we're not doctors. 40:22.360 --> 40:24.400 Seeing us won't make her better. 40:24.400 --> 40:26.960 She's got Shougu and Yingxue to take care of her. 40:26.960 --> 40:31.000 Father. Fifth Uncle. I'll go see Grandmother now. 40:32.040 --> 40:35.080 Since the marriage agreement has been signed, 40:35.080 --> 40:37.400 you should now focus on fulfilling your duties 40:37.400 --> 40:40.320 and prepare yourself for the wedding. 40:40.320 --> 40:41.880 Marriage agreement? 40:41.880 --> 40:43.960 Didn't your father tell you? 40:43.960 --> 40:45.800 While you were in Futing, 40:45.800 --> 40:50.080 your father and mother signed a marriage agreement for you. 40:50.080 --> 40:51.680 It was a pressing matter. 40:51.680 --> 40:54.000 I had wanted to discuss it with you after you returned, 40:54.000 --> 40:58.680 but Yingxue went ahead and signed the agreement. 41:00.080 --> 41:01.880 Shougu! 41:04.080 --> 41:08.320 That Fifth Dou and Seventh Dou are shallow and heartless. 41:09.240 --> 41:11.160 Unlike you, My Lord, 41:11.160 --> 41:13.160 you escorted Fourth Young Lady all the way here 41:13.160 --> 41:15.520 without even letting her know. 41:16.800 --> 41:19.880 She made it clear she didn't want to see me again, 41:19.880 --> 41:22.120 so there's no need to disturb her. 41:22.120 --> 41:25.120 As long as she can see her grandmother a little sooner, 41:25.120 --> 41:27.120 that's what matters. 41:34.800 --> 41:40.240 Zhao, I'm so glad to see you home safely. 41:55.800 --> 41:58.200 Song Mo killed his father and brother this same year. 41:58.200 --> 42:01.040 Could there be another reason, besides avenging the Duke of Ding, 42:01.040 --> 42:03.360 that caused such a drastic change in his character? 42:03.360 --> 42:06.680 My personal guards are in danger and my mother has just died. 42:06.680 --> 42:08.120 I've stepped into a deadlock, 42:08.120 --> 42:12.960 and what I need now is the strength to fight.