WEBVTT 00:06.080 --> 00:07.840 [Zhaowen Bookstore] 00:07.840 --> 00:11.360 But you're heavily injured. You should rest for at least a month. 00:12.560 --> 00:14.240 I can't wait. 00:14.240 --> 00:16.520 The lives of my guards are at stake 00:16.520 --> 00:19.160 and my mother just passed away. 00:20.000 --> 00:24.080 What I need now is not recuperating. 00:24.080 --> 00:26.800 but the strength to hold a sword. 00:29.280 --> 00:31.920 I figured you'd say that. 00:32.600 --> 00:35.000 I've prepared medicine for you. 00:35.000 --> 00:37.400 Take one pill when you are exhausted. 00:37.400 --> 00:39.000 But this method comes at a cost. 00:39.000 --> 00:42.200 It'll weaken your inner energy by 30%. 00:42.200 --> 00:44.480 The wound will accumulate stasis. 00:44.480 --> 00:47.280 Even if the wounds heal, 00:47.280 --> 00:49.800 the pain will stay with you for life. 00:49.800 --> 00:52.280 - If you trust me... - I trust you. 00:56.200 --> 00:59.560 To deal with them, 70% of my strength is more than enough. 01:08.680 --> 01:10.800 The story of "The Tale of the Silken Robe" was about 01:10.800 --> 01:14.600 the impossibility of balancing loyalty and filial piety. 01:14.600 --> 01:18.880 I've gone from a viewer to a character in the story itself. 01:20.200 --> 01:25.400 I remember the woman in the fox mask told me... 01:25.400 --> 01:29.600 If the second act really depicted the son putting his father on trial, 01:29.600 --> 01:31.400 wouldn't that be shocking and unconventional? 01:31.400 --> 01:34.800 You think a son shouldn't judge his father? 01:34.800 --> 01:37.880 That familial bonds outweigh justice? 01:37.880 --> 01:42.080 What I mean is, what's wrong with being unconventional? 01:45.240 --> 01:48.000 We're not characters in a play. 01:49.280 --> 01:52.880 Whatever happened in the past, whether you believe it or not, 01:52.880 --> 01:55.200 whether it's true or false, 01:55.200 --> 01:57.200 none of it matters. 02:19.680 --> 02:21.280 How come? 02:22.200 --> 02:26.200 Are you... really not her? 02:28.400 --> 02:31.680 Your Grace, you should focus on taking care of your current problem. 02:31.680 --> 02:34.880 Everything else can wait. 02:35.600 --> 02:38.200 I'll go and prepare a change of clothes for you. 02:42.440 --> 02:44.200 How did he escape? 02:44.200 --> 02:47.040 He was heavily injured! 02:47.960 --> 02:50.720 There was someone on the inside helping him. 02:50.720 --> 02:52.680 They coordinated to break him out. 02:52.680 --> 02:56.320 Find him! Search the entire capital if you have to! 02:56.320 --> 02:58.040 - Yes, sir! - Yes, sir! 02:58.040 --> 02:59.560 Go! Go! 02:59.560 --> 03:02.600 Interrogate Song Mo's personal guards, break them if you have to! 03:02.600 --> 03:05.960 I refuse to believe he could have gotten far with injuries like that. 03:05.960 --> 03:08.080 - Yes, Master. - Also, 03:08.080 --> 03:11.560 invite the elders from the main and third branches, along with those old fools over. 03:11.560 --> 03:14.800 - I'm calling for a clan council. - Yes, Master. 03:14.800 --> 03:16.400 Wait! 03:18.480 --> 03:21.600 Have my trained death guards been recalled? 03:21.600 --> 03:23.480 Everything's been arranged. 03:23.480 --> 03:25.680 Go. 03:25.680 --> 03:28.880 [Ice and Jade Will Fragment when Struck] (Idiom referring to fine paper) 03:33.520 --> 03:35.760 So, you've made up your mind. 03:39.160 --> 03:40.920 You were right. 03:40.920 --> 03:43.040 No matter how shocking or unconventional, 03:43.040 --> 03:45.640 grudges and debts must be settled. 03:45.640 --> 03:47.280 Even if it costs my life, 03:47.280 --> 03:50.000 even if the world condemns me as unfilial, 03:50.680 --> 03:53.560 it will all be worth it... 03:54.280 --> 03:57.120 if just one person believes me and understands me. 03:57.120 --> 04:01.400 I promise you, no matter what you do out there... 04:02.200 --> 04:06.080 or what others say, I'll stand by you. 04:07.000 --> 04:11.000 Hearing that from you is enough. 04:34.400 --> 04:36.400 This is... 04:42.600 --> 04:44.680 Young Lady, you're the lady in the fox mask. 04:44.680 --> 04:47.200 Why won't you tell His Grace? 04:48.600 --> 04:50.480 Things are still far from settled. 04:50.480 --> 04:53.880 I don't want him to be distracted. 05:03.400 --> 05:05.480 If I survive, 05:06.520 --> 05:09.160 I'll come back for you! 05:36.560 --> 05:39.560 [Libation] 05:48.640 --> 05:53.120 - How can we really do this? - I told you to shut up! 05:53.120 --> 05:55.720 [Duke of Ying's Residence] 07:01.720 --> 07:03.840 Where are my guards? 07:08.240 --> 07:12.040 [Eldest Uncle of the Song Family, Song Maochun] 07:14.600 --> 07:16.720 He's calling a clan council in the middle of the night. 07:16.720 --> 07:18.760 [Third Uncle of Song Family, Song Fengchun] But we've been waiting for four hours. 07:18.760 --> 07:20.920 Something must have gone wrong. 07:20.920 --> 07:23.520 What could possibly go wrong? 07:23.520 --> 07:25.680 He was flogged over a hundred times. 07:25.680 --> 07:29.080 If it were someone else, they would have died long ago. 07:36.240 --> 07:37.920 Brother! 07:50.640 --> 07:52.800 Everyone, I've offended you. 07:52.800 --> 07:55.480 The nerve of you to commit murder in the Duke of Ying's Residence! 07:55.480 --> 07:58.560 His Grace has said that there were intruders in the residence. 07:58.560 --> 08:01.440 The family must draw a clear line between themselves and the intruders. 08:01.440 --> 08:02.920 Use this as the boundary. 08:02.920 --> 08:04.640 Those within the ancestral hall, live; 08:04.640 --> 08:07.320 those outside it, die. 08:10.560 --> 08:12.120 - No! - How dare you! 08:12.120 --> 08:16.320 This is the Duke of Ying Residence! 08:17.440 --> 08:19.280 Why do all the dead look so unfamiliar? 08:19.280 --> 08:21.960 Could they really be intruders? 08:21.960 --> 08:25.520 You... You have no regard for the law! 08:25.520 --> 08:28.880 This is outrageous! 08:42.400 --> 08:44.560 Lu Zheng? Lu Zheng? 08:46.040 --> 08:47.720 Lu Zheng? 08:48.520 --> 08:51.840 It's me. I'm back. 08:52.720 --> 08:57.440 Your Grace, I didn't admit anything. 08:57.440 --> 09:01.640 I... I didn't betray you. 09:04.440 --> 09:06.320 - Brother! - Go! 09:06.320 --> 09:08.480 Lu Ming, go! 09:08.480 --> 09:10.840 - Brother! - Get him off the door! 09:10.840 --> 09:13.480 Protect His Grace! 09:14.440 --> 09:16.240 Brother! 09:18.920 --> 09:21.920 We have to go now! Go! 09:30.040 --> 09:32.240 You did well. 09:32.240 --> 09:34.040 You saved my life. 09:34.840 --> 09:36.520 All of you saved my life. 09:36.520 --> 09:38.440 They... 09:38.440 --> 09:41.840 They tried to force me to press my fingerprint, 09:41.840 --> 09:46.520 so I... I bit my fingers until they were ruined. 09:47.680 --> 09:50.280 The others did the same. 09:50.280 --> 09:52.840 Not one of us gave in. 09:56.040 --> 09:59.040 Lu Zheng, hold on for me. 09:59.040 --> 10:00.720 The doctor will be here soon. 10:00.720 --> 10:04.840 Stay with me. Lu Zheng, keep your eyes open! 10:07.120 --> 10:11.640 Your Grace, where is my brother? 10:14.120 --> 10:16.280 Brother, I'm here. 10:17.440 --> 10:19.040 Little Brother, 10:20.040 --> 10:22.640 keep... 10:22.640 --> 10:27.120 keep His Grace safe for me. 10:27.120 --> 10:28.520 I will. 10:28.520 --> 10:31.640 - Protect... - I will. 10:31.640 --> 10:34.320 His Grace. 10:35.120 --> 10:37.400 Lu Zheng? Lu Zheng? 10:37.440 --> 10:39.440 Brother? 10:39.440 --> 10:41.040 Lu Zheng! 10:41.040 --> 10:42.840 Brother! 10:43.440 --> 10:45.920 Brother! 10:50.840 --> 10:52.520 Young General! 11:07.720 --> 11:11.240 [To Walk the Tall Mountain Scenery] 11:23.840 --> 11:25.680 Duke, they've broken through! 11:25.680 --> 11:28.200 Shouldn't we escape? 11:28.200 --> 11:31.840 Very well! Very well! 11:31.840 --> 11:35.440 He's just like his uncle Jiang Meisun! 11:35.440 --> 11:40.440 His Grace has gone too far. 11:40.440 --> 11:42.640 - He might even... - He won't dare. 11:42.640 --> 11:43.920 He can't. 11:43.920 --> 11:47.240 With Liaodong's Lizhen forces pressing at the gates 11:47.240 --> 11:48.720 and external threats unresolved, 11:48.720 --> 11:51.640 His Majesty won't tolerate any internal strife. 11:57.720 --> 12:00.040 Take this blade. 12:00.720 --> 12:02.120 Go summon reinforcements. 12:02.120 --> 12:04.440 - Me? - Go! 12:06.840 --> 12:08.520 Yes, sir! 12:12.840 --> 12:18.240 You ungrateful son, I know exactly what you're after. 12:21.440 --> 12:23.240 Brother Han. 12:23.240 --> 12:25.840 - Brother. - I'm glad you're fine. 12:26.720 --> 12:30.240 Brother, please don't be mad at Father. 12:31.120 --> 12:32.920 I'm not mad. 12:33.400 --> 12:35.920 Those I ordered to kill were traitorous servants. 12:35.920 --> 12:38.120 Only by restoring peace to the residence 12:38.120 --> 12:40.840 can we properly honor Mother's passing. 12:42.520 --> 12:45.480 Where is the jade pendant Grandfather gave us? 12:48.640 --> 12:50.920 I've kept it with me at all times. 12:56.520 --> 12:58.440 I wasn't home when Mother was gravely ill. 12:58.440 --> 13:00.320 Tell me everything. 13:01.000 --> 13:02.680 Where is Nanny Xie? 13:02.680 --> 13:05.320 She served Mother for decades. 13:05.320 --> 13:07.120 Where is she now? 13:07.120 --> 13:11.640 They said she was unwell and was sent back to her hometown, 13:11.640 --> 13:15.520 but she was killed by bandits on the way. 13:18.040 --> 13:21.320 Which doctor treated Mother during her illness? 13:21.320 --> 13:23.440 Her Majesty the Empress visited several times. 13:23.440 --> 13:25.640 She was deeply concerned. 13:25.640 --> 13:28.720 The first doctor was recommended by Her Majesty. 13:28.720 --> 13:31.320 Then, when Mother's condition worsened in autumn, 13:31.320 --> 13:34.920 the crown prince recommended a new one. 13:39.560 --> 13:42.000 - Lu Ming. - Here! 13:42.000 --> 13:43.200 Guard Xixiang House. 13:43.200 --> 13:44.720 Yes, sir. 13:44.720 --> 13:46.520 Brother! 13:48.120 --> 13:52.320 I'm begging you, please don't hurt Father. 14:13.440 --> 14:14.920 - Second Brother! - Second Brother! 14:14.920 --> 14:18.440 Come here! It's safe here. 14:35.640 --> 14:38.600 Father, don't you owe me an explanation? 14:49.440 --> 14:52.440 The Jiang family has been branded traitors, 14:52.440 --> 14:57.840 and in your eyes, my uncle and I are no different. 14:57.840 --> 15:00.320 Since you've managed to fight your way back, 15:00.320 --> 15:02.320 just say what you want. 15:07.240 --> 15:09.440 I've always seen you as my father, 15:09.440 --> 15:13.120 but did you ever once see me as your son? 15:13.120 --> 15:16.920 Words are meaningless now. 15:16.920 --> 15:19.040 The affair was a misunderstanding, 15:19.040 --> 15:21.320 the ones you killed were traitors, 15:21.320 --> 15:23.840 and your mother's dowry and private assets are yours. 15:23.840 --> 15:28.320 Let's put everything behind us. 15:33.440 --> 15:36.240 Thank you for saying that. 15:36.240 --> 15:40.440 You've made it easier for me to let go of the remaining love 15:40.440 --> 15:42.720 I had for you. 15:47.880 --> 15:51.200 This is the lantern I gave you to express my love after you scolded me 15:51.200 --> 15:53.840 during my last visit home. 15:53.840 --> 15:57.080 I found it abandoned in the storage room yesterday. 15:57.080 --> 16:01.000 The wick remains untouched, and the paper is covered in ash. 16:01.800 --> 16:04.840 You never even looked at it. 16:05.760 --> 16:07.760 All these years, 16:08.600 --> 16:11.080 it was just my own wishful thinking. 16:11.080 --> 16:13.800 I took 40 lashes for you, 16:13.800 --> 16:15.680 and you punished me with 100 floggings. 16:15.680 --> 16:18.840 I've repaid the debt of blood and kinship you gave me. 16:18.840 --> 16:23.840 From this moment on, our bond as father and son is severed, just like this lantern! 16:23.840 --> 16:26.720 The only reason I can stand here and speak to you calmly 16:26.720 --> 16:29.440 is for the sake of Mother's funeral. 16:29.440 --> 16:33.720 I will serve as the chief mourner on the seventh day, 16:33.720 --> 16:38.520 and I will carry the banner on the forty-ninth day. 16:41.800 --> 16:44.240 You're seizing the right to lead the funeral rites, 16:44.240 --> 16:46.600 isn't this just your way of declaring to the capital 16:46.600 --> 16:48.720 that you've secured your position my heir? 16:48.720 --> 16:52.120 In the end, you're only doing this for yourself! 16:54.840 --> 16:56.360 Since I joined the army, 16:56.360 --> 16:59.280 I've never relied on this dukedom for anything. 16:59.280 --> 17:02.160 From now on, whatever I want, 17:02.160 --> 17:05.240 I'll earn with my own efforts. 17:05.240 --> 17:07.960 I'm moving to Grandfather's former residence, Yizhi Hall. 17:07.960 --> 17:11.400 From now on, we have nothing more to do with each other. 17:12.040 --> 17:14.160 But when it comes to Mother's funeral, 17:14.160 --> 17:17.960 you must fulfill your duties as her husband... 17:18.840 --> 17:21.440 and ensure she is sent off with dignity. 17:59.120 --> 18:02.720 Su Lan, burn the used bandages as well. 18:02.720 --> 18:04.520 Leave no trace behind. 18:04.520 --> 18:06.520 Yes, Young Lady. 18:18.480 --> 18:20.120 Prince Qing has sent an urgent message, 18:20.120 --> 18:23.760 Lizhen forces have repeatedly violated our borders, 18:23.760 --> 18:27.080 causing great suffering to the border residents. 18:27.080 --> 18:32.480 I believe we should send Wang Xingyi and the Jiliao Governor-General, 18:32.480 --> 18:35.680 to deploy an additional 30,000 troops to confront Lizhen. 18:35.680 --> 18:39.760 Without reinforcements, the current Liaodong forces won't hold on for long, 18:39.760 --> 18:43.520 and Lizhen could reach Daitong within ten days. 18:45.200 --> 18:47.040 What is the state of the treasury? 18:47.040 --> 18:49.320 The Ministry of Works is still constructing Yuanyou Palace. 18:49.320 --> 18:52.160 The project is not even halfway through. 18:57.560 --> 19:00.560 Your Majesty, the Lizhen tribe is extremely poor. 19:00.560 --> 19:03.800 They've repeatedly requested to open horse markets in exchange for grain, which speaks volumes. 19:03.800 --> 19:06.640 Their current invasion is likely a desperate attempt 19:06.640 --> 19:08.800 to plunder food and livestock before winter. 19:08.800 --> 19:11.760 This conflict may not necessarily require battle. 19:11.760 --> 19:16.440 This is a discussion between the Grand Secretariat and His Majesty about border defense. 19:16.440 --> 19:20.480 You're overstepping, Minister Dou. 19:20.480 --> 19:23.160 Grand Secretary Wu, this concerns national security, 19:23.160 --> 19:25.360 I cannot remain silent. 19:25.360 --> 19:28.120 If this war can be resolved within a month, 19:28.120 --> 19:30.040 the Ministry of Revenue can manage. 19:30.040 --> 19:32.640 But if it drags on for three months, 19:32.640 --> 19:36.040 we'll have to impose additional taxes to fund the military. 19:36.040 --> 19:38.280 And in that case, how will the people 19:38.280 --> 19:41.240 of Song, Jia, and Hu prefectures manage their spring planting next year? 19:41.240 --> 19:43.720 Your Majesty, the horse markets must not be reopened! 19:43.720 --> 19:46.080 I was demoted for opposing this once before. 19:46.080 --> 19:48.080 I don't mind being demoted again. 19:48.080 --> 19:52.320 Opening the markets will only breed corruption within the court and empower our enemies. 19:52.320 --> 19:53.800 I beseech Your Majesty to make a wise decision. 19:53.800 --> 19:57.280 To guard the borders and protect the nation's foundations is the sacred duty left by the founding emperor. 19:57.280 --> 19:59.320 Our dynasty upholds integrity and honor. 19:59.320 --> 20:01.680 We oppose this to the death! 20:01.680 --> 20:04.440 We oppose this to the death! 20:06.600 --> 20:08.560 Your Majesty! 20:08.560 --> 20:10.560 Quick, bring Empress Wan's elixir! 20:10.560 --> 20:12.560 Yes, sir. 20:21.600 --> 20:24.600 If only Meisun were here. 20:27.560 --> 20:28.880 He's sent another one today? 20:28.880 --> 20:30.280 Yes, Master. 20:30.280 --> 20:32.080 Ever since Fourth Young Lady was grounded, 20:32.080 --> 20:33.600 Young Master Wu has been delivering 20:33.600 --> 20:35.600 a handwritten copy of Admonitions for Women to the back gate every day, 20:35.600 --> 20:39.680 often including food and newspapers as well. 20:42.200 --> 20:47.840 Such elegant brushwork, his handwriting really is beautiful. 20:52.560 --> 20:53.840 Has Seventh Master departed? 20:53.840 --> 20:56.080 He left right after dinner. 20:56.080 --> 20:57.600 He's headed to Taiyuan Prefecture to audit the accounts. 20:57.600 --> 20:59.720 It'll take him at least two weeks. 21:00.760 --> 21:04.600 Master, about what Fourth Young Lady did last night, 21:04.600 --> 21:06.520 what should we do? 21:10.080 --> 21:15.240 Shougu's reckless and defiant attitude needs to be dealt with. 21:15.240 --> 21:18.160 Send a message to the Office of State Affairs. 21:27.080 --> 21:29.160 [Libation] 22:01.200 --> 22:04.320 Funeral rites are always led by the head of the family. 22:04.320 --> 22:08.320 Why is the Duke of Ying's eldest son taking over instead? 22:08.320 --> 22:10.240 Look at Song Mo, he's not even crying. 22:10.240 --> 22:11.440 How unfilial. 22:11.440 --> 22:13.360 Exactly. 22:13.360 --> 22:15.160 What's wrong with the eldest son taking charge? 22:15.160 --> 22:17.160 Whether he's filial or not, whether he cries or not, 22:17.160 --> 22:19.160 what does that have to do with you? 22:19.160 --> 22:20.880 For a noble family with hereditary rank, 22:20.880 --> 22:22.560 is this really all they can manage for Lady Jiang? 22:22.560 --> 22:24.000 So shabby. 22:24.000 --> 22:27.240 Exactly. Lord Song is always out gallivanting. 22:27.240 --> 22:31.240 I heard he didn't even make it back to see his mother one last time. 22:31.240 --> 22:33.600 Have some decency, would you? 22:33.600 --> 22:35.760 Stop criticizing him. 22:35.760 --> 22:38.440 Where were you when Song Mo was risking his life fighting pirates? 22:38.440 --> 22:41.520 I doubt any of you would make it back to see your mothers either. 22:41.520 --> 22:44.000 [The Virtuous Wife of the Jiang Clan] 22:44.000 --> 22:46.480 I've come to join the rites. 22:48.560 --> 22:51.440 Don't worry, I'm here with you. 22:51.440 --> 22:55.880 From now on, no one on all of East Fourth Street will dare say a single bad word about you. 22:58.360 --> 23:00.360 Thank you. 23:11.880 --> 23:14.960 [Duke of Ding's Army, Lu Zheng] 23:21.200 --> 23:25.200 Your Grace, I will take my brother's place. 23:25.200 --> 23:32.560 From now on, I will protect you with my life, no matter the cost. 23:32.560 --> 23:36.040 Even if we know who killed Lu Zheng, 23:36.040 --> 23:41.240 yet... we cannot seek revenge right now, 23:42.200 --> 23:44.840 are you still willing to follow me? 23:48.280 --> 23:50.880 No matter what decisions you make, 23:50.880 --> 23:53.320 I will lead the charge for you. 23:53.320 --> 23:55.800 Please grant me this wish. 23:59.040 --> 24:01.040 Bring the wine. 24:08.040 --> 24:12.600 I, Song Yantang, will never forget your loyalty. 24:14.160 --> 24:16.320 Here's to all of you. 24:16.320 --> 24:18.160 May you rest in peace. 24:18.160 --> 24:20.720 May you rest in peace! 24:30.120 --> 24:33.000 [Duke of Ding's Army, Lu Zheng] 24:37.760 --> 24:41.720 Your Grace! 24:51.520 --> 24:54.440 How did it go? No one noticed, right? 24:54.440 --> 24:56.240 Young Lady. 25:09.960 --> 25:11.160 Everything is settled. 25:11.160 --> 25:14.880 Song Mo personally oversaw Lady Jiang's funeral as the chief mourner. 25:14.880 --> 25:17.040 He's secured his position as heir. 25:26.080 --> 25:28.240 Lu Zheng is gone. 25:29.640 --> 25:32.720 Lu Zheng, who was supposed to live, has died early. 25:32.720 --> 25:35.840 Prepare for battle! 25:42.440 --> 25:44.320 Sister. 25:47.640 --> 25:49.480 - Who is it? - Fourth Young Lady, 25:49.480 --> 25:52.440 Fifth Master requests your presence at the ancestral hall. 26:06.440 --> 26:11.320 Fifth Uncle, may I know why you want to see me at this hour? 26:11.320 --> 26:16.720 Shougu, you've always made it clear you don't want to marry the Marquis of Jining. 26:16.720 --> 26:19.640 Why don't you just tell us the truth now? 26:19.640 --> 26:22.840 Perhaps we can still find a way to help you. 26:22.840 --> 26:24.840 What does that mean? 26:25.440 --> 26:26.560 Zou Er. 26:26.560 --> 26:28.240 Here! 26:34.240 --> 26:36.520 - I clearly burned... - Su Lan. 26:36.520 --> 26:38.680 You clearly burned what? 26:38.680 --> 26:40.840 This bloodstained garment really does have something to do with you. 26:40.840 --> 26:43.880 Fifth Brother, this is solid evidence. 26:43.880 --> 26:45.640 Why would you assume 26:45.640 --> 26:48.120 I had something to do with the bloodstained garment? 26:49.320 --> 26:52.000 You went behind your family and met a man in secret at night. 26:52.000 --> 26:54.240 You're disgracing the entire family. 26:54.240 --> 26:58.560 Guards! Fourth Young Lady has dishonored the family. 26:58.560 --> 27:00.480 Prepare the family punishment. 27:00.480 --> 27:02.480 Yes, Master. 27:06.480 --> 27:08.840 Master, the family punishment is ready. 27:08.840 --> 27:11.160 Madam Yingxue is waiting for you. 27:12.040 --> 27:15.240 I had wanted the elder daughter to marry for status, the second for power. 27:15.240 --> 27:17.920 Everything should've gone perfectly. 27:17.920 --> 27:19.840 But this pawn refused to play its part 27:19.840 --> 27:22.720 and turned into a losing move. 27:23.920 --> 27:28.120 Find a way to leak news of Dou Zhao to Wu Shan. 27:28.120 --> 27:31.000 If we can exchange this pawn for another advantage, 27:31.000 --> 27:34.280 it will still be worth it. 27:35.640 --> 27:38.400 What do you mean, Master? 27:39.600 --> 27:44.160 Wu Shan has always desired Dou Zhao but couldn't have her. 27:44.160 --> 27:46.800 If he learns she's suffering, 27:48.080 --> 27:50.480 won't he be desperate to save her? 27:52.240 --> 27:55.040 Understood. I'll see to it immediately. 28:16.600 --> 28:17.720 May the Duke bless you! 28:17.720 --> 28:19.880 You're finally awake, Your Grace! 28:19.880 --> 28:21.880 His Grace is awake! 28:24.320 --> 28:26.240 Your Grace! 28:26.240 --> 28:29.560 Your Grace, you're finally awake. 28:33.120 --> 28:35.040 How long was I asleep? 28:35.600 --> 28:38.000 Seven full days. 28:38.000 --> 28:42.080 The imperial physicians came several times. 28:42.080 --> 28:46.520 They said you'd injured your internal organs, overstrained your body with medicine, 28:46.520 --> 28:48.720 and drained your spirit. 28:48.720 --> 28:51.560 They said you might never wake up again. 28:51.560 --> 28:55.320 Thankfully, you've made it back from death's door. 28:56.960 --> 28:58.400 Where is Dou Zhao? 28:58.400 --> 29:00.120 How is she? 29:00.120 --> 29:02.360 - Fourth Young Lady is... - Lu Ming. 29:05.080 --> 29:06.600 What happened? 29:06.600 --> 29:08.080 Tell me! 29:09.600 --> 29:15.040 Mr. Chen said Fourth Young Lady was punished by Fifth Master Dou 29:15.040 --> 29:17.560 for meeting a man in secret at night. 29:23.560 --> 29:25.600 Meeting a man in secret? 29:25.600 --> 29:27.280 That was me. 29:29.920 --> 29:33.040 - Y-Your Grace! - Your Grace! 29:33.040 --> 29:37.240 The chaos in your residence has only just settled, and you've barely survived. 29:37.240 --> 29:40.160 - Your body can't take this. - He's right. 29:42.680 --> 29:44.240 She saved my life. 29:44.240 --> 29:47.360 If my body can't take it, then consider it as returning the favor to her. 29:47.360 --> 29:50.520 The matter regarding Fourth Young Lady has settled down. 29:50.520 --> 29:52.520 But the Wu family... 29:53.840 --> 29:55.360 The Wu family? 29:55.360 --> 29:57.360 What about the Wu family? 30:00.200 --> 30:01.680 - Young Master, you can't go in! - Go away! 30:01.680 --> 30:03.600 - You can't go in! - Get out of my way! 30:03.600 --> 30:05.800 What are you doing to her? Are you trying to kill her? 30:05.800 --> 30:07.480 Get away from her! 30:08.440 --> 30:10.240 Fourth Young Lady. 30:20.320 --> 30:22.440 The bloodstained garment is mine. 30:22.440 --> 30:25.120 Young Master Wu, you cannot say such things recklessly! 30:25.120 --> 30:26.960 How could that garment possibly belong to you? 30:26.960 --> 30:28.840 I coughed up blood due to my lung ailment. 30:28.840 --> 30:33.080 Well, well, the Wu family's heir indeed lives up to his reputation. How responsible. 30:33.080 --> 30:36.680 But isn't that excuse a little far-fetched? 30:36.680 --> 30:41.080 I was the one who acted rashly and behaved inappropriately. 30:41.080 --> 30:43.320 Fourth Young Lady is completely blameless. 30:43.320 --> 30:47.120 Please punish me instead, Minister Dou. 30:47.120 --> 30:49.280 Grand Sectary Wu abuses his influence, 30:49.280 --> 30:51.640 allowing his grandson to trespass on private residences 30:51.640 --> 30:54.560 and seduces a betrothed daughter of our family, 30:54.560 --> 30:56.640 treating our family with utter disrespect. 30:56.640 --> 30:58.880 This is beyond my authority. 30:58.880 --> 31:02.160 I'll hand you over to the Office of State Affairs. 31:06.440 --> 31:12.320 Seducing the legitimate daughter of a noble family is a crime punishable by death. 31:12.800 --> 31:14.800 What a pity. 31:15.800 --> 31:20.600 That night, I was seeking medical advice. 31:21.320 --> 31:23.480 There was nothing improper between us. 31:23.480 --> 31:25.440 You're the son of a noble family, 31:25.440 --> 31:27.720 yet you've been visiting the Dou Residence frequently. 31:27.720 --> 31:29.760 How could you claim innocence? 31:29.760 --> 31:31.400 Or perhaps there's more to it. 31:31.400 --> 31:35.600 Grand Sectary Wu has been lobbying for war against Lizhen. 31:35.600 --> 31:41.280 Were you at their residence to gauge their stance and push your grandfather's agenda? 31:41.920 --> 31:45.120 What does this have to do with my grandfather? 31:45.640 --> 31:47.920 In times of crisis, loyal ministers reveal their character. 31:47.920 --> 31:50.280 In chaos, true patriots stand out. 31:50.280 --> 31:55.480 Defending the nation with one's life is the duty of every subject. 31:55.480 --> 31:58.000 There's no room for tolerating treachery. 31:58.000 --> 32:01.520 Why would that require lobbying? 32:02.560 --> 32:08.680 So, Wu Shan claims Grand Secretary Wu believes we live in dangerous, chaotic times, 32:08.680 --> 32:14.040 that those advocating for peace are disloyal, and that His Majesty is harboring traitors. 32:14.040 --> 32:19.800 Wu Shan admits to using the Dou family's daughter to probe the officials' stance, 32:19.800 --> 32:22.600 intending to form factions. 32:22.600 --> 32:24.280 That's not true. 32:24.880 --> 32:28.640 You're twisting my words! Who are you people? 32:29.160 --> 32:30.680 Guards! 32:30.680 --> 32:33.560 I demand to see Dou Shishu! 32:33.560 --> 32:37.520 Buckets of bloody water were poured out from the prison of the Office of State Affairs. 32:37.520 --> 32:42.520 Every confession has been steered toward accusations of the Wu family lobbying and forming factions. 32:42.520 --> 32:45.880 What about the civil officials who frequented our bookshop? 32:46.920 --> 32:49.600 They've returned all the money. 32:53.200 --> 32:55.000 I thought... 32:56.200 --> 32:58.400 I saved his life, 32:59.440 --> 33:01.560 but now it seems... 33:02.720 --> 33:05.040 I owe him mine. 33:10.680 --> 33:13.400 Dezhen has always been on good terms with your family. 33:13.400 --> 33:19.480 I think Lord Dou knows what kind of person he is. 33:19.480 --> 33:22.720 Please show him mercy. 33:23.600 --> 33:27.000 I know the importance of separating personal feelings from official matters. 33:27.000 --> 33:30.720 You can put your mind at ease, Xingyi, and please assure Grand Secretary Wu as well, 33:30.720 --> 33:32.800 it's not a serious matter. 33:34.280 --> 33:37.640 Grand Secretary Wu and I will never forget this favor. 33:37.640 --> 33:40.440 On behalf of my foolish student, 33:40.440 --> 33:42.680 thank you. 33:42.680 --> 33:44.360 It's nothing. 33:46.040 --> 33:47.520 Goodbye. 34:02.200 --> 34:04.160 Fifth Uncle, 34:04.160 --> 34:08.520 I beg you, please spare Wu Shan and the Wu family. 34:08.520 --> 34:11.720 Go back, girl. This is no longer your concern. 34:11.720 --> 34:14.720 Ever since Wu Shan was sent to prison, 34:14.720 --> 34:20.040 the servants of officials, big or small, have been swarming our residence. 34:20.040 --> 34:22.400 Even Minister Mu and Minister Zhao have come in person. 34:22.400 --> 34:25.320 Every day, countless secret letters pour in like a flood. 34:25.320 --> 34:28.080 It's clear this isn't something they intend to let slide. 34:28.640 --> 34:31.040 Women being too clever is never a good thing. 34:31.040 --> 34:34.880 For most families, a scandal like this is just a private disgrace. 34:34.880 --> 34:40.120 But the Wu family has held power for decades. 34:40.120 --> 34:43.240 It's time for them to step aside and make room for others. 34:43.240 --> 34:46.200 The fall of the century-strong Wu family... 34:48.120 --> 34:50.760 would pave the way for your ambitions 34:50.760 --> 34:55.600 and make your name shine in history. This was your plan all along, wasn't it? 34:55.600 --> 34:59.360 A wise man waits for the right moment and acts in accordance with the times. 34:59.360 --> 35:04.160 Going against the tide will never end well. 35:04.160 --> 35:05.840 Fifth Uncle! 35:09.560 --> 35:12.440 I'm begging you. 35:12.440 --> 35:14.960 Please spare Wu Shan! 35:23.080 --> 35:25.800 [Exalted Sentiments* are Frequently Born] (Lit. Iris and orchid) 35:29.040 --> 35:30.560 Fourth Young Lady, 35:30.560 --> 35:32.400 Mr. Chen has sent word. 35:32.400 --> 35:34.480 Lord Song has woken up. 35:36.000 --> 35:38.440 That's good. 35:38.440 --> 35:43.640 Mr. Chen said His Grace has learned about the bloodstained garment. 35:43.640 --> 35:46.320 He's going to the Office of State Affairs to clear Young Master Wu's name. 35:46.320 --> 35:48.360 He mustn't! 35:48.360 --> 35:51.720 If he goes now, he'll end up dead alongside Wu Shan. 35:51.720 --> 35:54.160 Whether it's Fifth Uncle, Song Yichun, 35:54.160 --> 35:56.280 or the mastermind behind the Duke of Ding's case, 35:56.280 --> 35:58.360 they're all hoping for exactly that outcome. 35:58.360 --> 36:00.160 Even Yan Chaoqing couldn't dissuade him, 36:00.160 --> 36:02.440 and you're still grounded. 36:05.320 --> 36:07.000 Shougu! 36:35.880 --> 36:39.640 Shougu, I came back too late. 36:39.640 --> 36:42.840 So much had happened while I was away in Chanxi. 36:42.840 --> 36:44.840 I know you've been wronged. 36:44.840 --> 36:47.600 How are your injuries? Let me take a look at you. 36:47.600 --> 36:50.000 It was all for our family's future. 36:50.760 --> 36:53.800 My injuries don't matter. 36:54.640 --> 36:59.000 Shougu, I only just learned about this. 36:59.000 --> 37:02.840 If I had been home, I would never have let them hurt you. 37:02.840 --> 37:05.520 Young Master Wu is suffering far worse injuries in prison. 37:05.520 --> 37:09.520 You've always valued him highly. Why haven't you gone to see him? 37:14.240 --> 37:16.040 After over ten years, 37:17.320 --> 37:23.160 I've returned to your side again, and what have I received? 37:23.160 --> 37:27.240 Slaps, punishments, and nothing else. 37:30.200 --> 37:31.720 Father, 37:33.240 --> 37:35.040 is my house arrest... 37:36.040 --> 37:39.160 going to last forever? 37:39.160 --> 37:41.040 Of course not. 37:41.040 --> 37:46.320 It's lifted, immediately, right now! 37:49.280 --> 37:52.800 Your Grace, turning yourself in now will undo everything we've worked for. 37:52.800 --> 37:54.360 Dezhen is too naive and frail 37:54.360 --> 37:56.960 to endure the coercion and torture of the Office of State Affairs. 37:56.960 --> 37:58.560 I can't let him take the blame for me. 37:58.560 --> 38:01.640 Even if I turn myself in, I have a way to get out. 38:34.200 --> 38:36.680 What are you doing out here in this wind and storm? 38:36.680 --> 38:40.000 Your feet are injured, are you trying to make it worse? 38:40.000 --> 38:42.400 You made me a promise, 38:42.400 --> 38:45.920 that if I saved you, you'd cherish your life 38:45.920 --> 38:48.000 and fight for a way forward. 38:48.000 --> 38:51.640 Right now, you're in no position to save Wu Shan. 38:51.640 --> 38:55.600 You'll only give those in the shadows more reasons to frame you, 38:55.600 --> 38:58.960 bringing pain to those who care for you and joy to your enemies. 39:14.240 --> 39:15.440 I can do it myself. 39:15.440 --> 39:18.320 Stay still, or you'll aggravate your wound. 39:22.600 --> 39:25.760 Didn't you say once that in a doctor's eyes, 39:25.760 --> 39:29.160 everyone is just flesh and bone, no distinction between men and women? 39:29.160 --> 39:31.440 Why are you being shy now? 39:31.440 --> 39:35.280 Only my feet are injured, my hands are fine. 39:35.280 --> 39:38.720 Besides, they had other motives for the punishment, 39:38.720 --> 39:40.400 so they didn't really use much force. 39:40.400 --> 39:42.480 My feet will be fine. 39:43.680 --> 39:46.280 What about you? Are you all right? 39:46.280 --> 39:48.080 Let me check your pulse. 40:06.280 --> 40:10.640 How did the Wu family end up getting dragged into this? 40:11.760 --> 40:15.720 Fifth Uncle deliberately leaked word of me being punished to the Wu family. 40:15.720 --> 40:18.040 He even fabricated a bloodstained garment. 40:18.920 --> 40:22.400 Wu Shan ended up in prison because he was trying to save me. 40:22.400 --> 40:24.760 I sent someone to inquire at the Office of State Affairs. 40:24.760 --> 40:28.120 All his confessions are twisted to accuse him of factionalism. 40:28.120 --> 40:32.680 I can't believe so much happened in just a few days when I was in a coma. 40:33.440 --> 40:35.920 But Fifth Uncles's words did make me see things clearly. 40:35.920 --> 40:39.520 A wise man waits for the right moment and acts in accordance with the times. 40:39.520 --> 40:43.880 Going against the tide will never end well. 40:43.880 --> 40:47.080 This case is no longer about whether we had a relationship. 40:47.080 --> 40:52.800 It's about whether the Lizhen uprising in Liaodong should be met with war or peace. 40:54.000 --> 40:55.880 What's the situation in Liaodong? 40:55.880 --> 40:59.760 Grand Secretary Wu and the Grand Secretariat ministers are resolutely advocating for war, 40:59.760 --> 41:02.320 even citing the founding emperor's edicts. 41:02.320 --> 41:05.080 But His Majesty is reluctant to go to war with Lizhen. 41:05.080 --> 41:08.000 After all, the treasury is in deficit, 41:08.000 --> 41:09.360 and the nation lacks capable generals. 41:09.360 --> 41:11.600 His Majesty doesn't want war? 41:12.760 --> 41:16.960 Liaodong's forces are stretched thin and lack experience in direct confrontation. 41:16.960 --> 41:19.720 Plus, the treasury is empty, making a prolonged war unsustainable. 41:19.720 --> 41:22.920 Grand Secretary Wu's push for war comes from a place of loyalty, 41:22.920 --> 41:24.560 but the more fervently he argues, 41:24.560 --> 41:27.400 the harder it is for His Majesty to back down. 41:27.400 --> 41:30.160 For Fifth Uncle, who has been laying low for so many years, 41:30.160 --> 41:32.840 to suddenly accuse the Wu family so boldly, 41:32.840 --> 41:35.240 he must have read His Majesty's mind. 41:36.080 --> 41:37.440 Based on what you've said, 41:37.440 --> 41:41.640 Grand Secretary Wu's advice is ill-timed and bound to lead to his downfall. 41:41.640 --> 41:45.760 This case is only going to get harder to resolve. 41:49.880 --> 41:52.800 If they could set aside questions of right and wrong, pride and disgrace, 41:52.800 --> 41:55.200 perhaps this stalemate could be broken. 41:57.600 --> 42:02.320 The key lies in resolving the tension between Grand Secretary Wu and His Majesty. 42:18.680 --> 42:22.560 The most unpredictable thing in the world is the human mind. 42:22.560 --> 42:27.120 Even if I could go back, I doubt I could sit back and do nothing. 42:27.120 --> 42:31.320 I would rather die than admit to these fabricated accusations. 42:31.320 --> 42:33.520 Execute him!