WEBVTT 00:13.960 --> 00:17.600 That tree hasn't flowered or grown leaves in decades. 00:17.600 --> 00:19.320 There are no fallen leaves to sweep. 00:19.320 --> 00:22.600 Why bother sweeping the floor every day? 00:23.280 --> 00:25.840 Master says sweeping is a form of cultivation. 00:25.840 --> 00:29.840 Whether there are leaves or not, it must be done daily. 00:29.840 --> 00:31.880 Stubborn mule. 00:31.880 --> 00:36.520 The abbot wanted you to cleanse your mind, not a patch of ground. 00:36.520 --> 00:38.080 It's raining. 00:38.080 --> 00:41.520 Come sit with me, have some tea, and take a break. 00:49.480 --> 00:53.080 The tree is flowering. Look! 01:07.040 --> 01:08.960 You were born emotionally detached, 01:08.960 --> 01:10.840 with little understanding of feelings, 01:10.840 --> 01:12.760 much like this withered tree. 01:12.760 --> 01:16.000 Alive, yet without flowers or leaves. 01:16.000 --> 01:19.920 This withered tree neither flowers nor grows leaves. 01:19.920 --> 01:22.320 It's dark and unsightly, 01:22.320 --> 01:25.040 completely out of place in this elegant courtyard. 01:25.040 --> 01:27.720 Why don't you dig it up and throw it out? 01:29.560 --> 01:33.480 Everything exists for a reason. 01:33.480 --> 01:36.000 When you've grown 01:36.000 --> 01:38.320 and experienced the complexities of the mortal world, 01:38.320 --> 01:43.360 you'll understand that even a withered tree can bloom again. 01:45.040 --> 01:48.200 If I'll understand when I grow up, 01:48.200 --> 01:52.040 why did my father send me here? 01:53.480 --> 01:56.400 Everyone has their own karmic path. 01:56.400 --> 02:00.320 Being emotionally detached might be seen as a burden in the mortal world, 02:00.320 --> 02:03.880 but in the pure land of Buddhism, it's a blessing. 02:03.880 --> 02:05.680 Since you are fated to walk this path, 02:05.680 --> 02:10.160 I will give you the Dharma name "Yuantong." 02:48.840 --> 02:52.160 This is strange. He's even escorting me home? 02:52.160 --> 02:54.360 The fearsome man has suddenly turned nice. 02:54.360 --> 02:56.720 What on earth is he up to? 03:07.800 --> 03:11.160 This is a disaster. I used to rebuke the Dou family for scheming, 03:11.160 --> 03:13.880 and now I'm the one with an agenda. 03:14.760 --> 03:17.520 How am I ever going to change his impression of me? 03:17.520 --> 03:20.480 [Dou Residence] 03:26.160 --> 03:32.280 Thank you for saving me, and for the trouble of escorting me home. 03:32.280 --> 03:34.960 I might have acted too harshly during the Dragon Boat Festival. 03:34.960 --> 03:38.720 Consider this an apology. I hope you'll forgive me. 03:39.800 --> 03:41.400 Goodbye. 03:42.920 --> 03:45.880 You're not here to propose as well, are you? 03:47.800 --> 03:50.320 No, I was... 03:50.320 --> 03:53.040 on duty today. I just happened to pass by. 03:53.040 --> 03:55.480 But your spooked horse couldn't have been an accident. 03:55.480 --> 03:57.320 Firecrackers don't go off on their own. 03:57.320 --> 03:59.160 I've sent my men to look into it. 03:59.160 --> 04:02.440 Lord Dou, you must have offended quite a few people when turning down 04:02.440 --> 04:04.480 suitors for Fourth Young Lady. 04:05.560 --> 04:08.320 A man without sin, but with a treasure, invites envy. 04:08.320 --> 04:10.560 A jade of great value, if surrendered too easily 04:10.560 --> 04:12.960 like in the tale of the Spring and Autumn Annals' Yu Shu, 04:12.960 --> 04:14.440 it'll only end up unappreciated. 04:14.440 --> 04:17.360 Shougu is far more precious than any jade. 04:17.360 --> 04:21.560 I'd rather resign than let her marry those scoundrels. 04:21.560 --> 04:23.680 Her father may seem soft, 04:23.680 --> 04:26.440 but when it comes to important matters, he does show some backbone. 04:27.240 --> 04:30.080 Do you like the Spring and Autumn Annals as well? 04:30.800 --> 04:32.200 I read it occasionally. 04:32.200 --> 04:34.200 The subtle wisdom and profound lessons in it 04:34.200 --> 04:36.120 reveal something new with every reading. 04:36.120 --> 04:39.720 We must discuss it someday when there's a chance. 04:39.720 --> 04:41.120 I'd be honored. 04:41.120 --> 04:42.920 No need to walk me in. 04:47.480 --> 04:50.000 Lu Ming, buy me a copy of the Spring and Autumn Annals, 04:50.000 --> 04:51.960 the latest annotated edition. 04:51.960 --> 04:54.240 My Lord, didn't you have a photographic memory? 04:54.240 --> 04:56.480 You'd read books once and then donate them to the charity house. 04:56.480 --> 05:00.560 Did I say I was going to read it? It's for display. 05:01.760 --> 05:05.680 What you're reading isn't history, it's the art of romance. 05:06.400 --> 05:08.800 My Lord, we've caught the man responsible for spooking the horse. 05:08.800 --> 05:10.440 He's a servant of the Lord of Haichang. 05:10.440 --> 05:11.960 But he's tight-lipped and refuses to talk. 05:11.960 --> 05:13.280 It's obvious. 05:13.280 --> 05:16.160 His master must've been furious after his proposal was rejected. 05:16.160 --> 05:19.080 Still, the firecracker was unusually large, 05:19.080 --> 05:21.760 almost too big for standard fireworks. 05:21.760 --> 05:25.200 Someone might be hoarding gunpowder. Should we look into it? 05:28.880 --> 05:32.200 Good idea. It's the perfect excuse to teach the Lord of Haichang a lesson. 05:32.200 --> 05:34.720 [Trees in Spring and Clouds during Sunset] 05:39.680 --> 05:43.000 If anyone pressures you into marriage again, show them this. 05:43.000 --> 05:44.600 You have the right to choose, 05:44.600 --> 05:46.960 the right to refuse anyone, 05:46.960 --> 05:49.600 even your father or uncle. 05:49.600 --> 05:52.200 No one can force you anymore. 05:52.200 --> 05:55.000 He could've asked His Majesty to grant him your hand in marriage, 05:55.000 --> 05:59.840 but instead, he only asked for your freedom to choose. 05:59.840 --> 06:03.320 That shows just how genuinely he cares for you. 06:03.320 --> 06:06.560 If you agree to my proposal, five days later, 06:06.560 --> 06:09.680 tie a red ribbon on this magnolia tree. 06:09.680 --> 06:11.560 I'll see it from afar. 06:11.560 --> 06:15.400 If you intend to turn me down, tie a white one. 06:16.440 --> 06:20.120 And I will never bother you again. 06:25.040 --> 06:26.640 Little dreamer. 06:27.760 --> 06:30.600 Ji Jianming? What are you doing here? 06:30.600 --> 06:31.840 I told you, didn't I? 06:31.840 --> 06:34.800 After all that drama, they still ended up married. 06:34.800 --> 06:38.200 You can't hide in Zhending forever. 06:38.840 --> 06:42.880 This situation could either blow over or become a major problem 06:42.880 --> 06:45.840 for the Dou family if no one smart steps in to fix it. 06:45.840 --> 06:48.000 Want to hear my plan? 06:48.000 --> 06:51.000 If it's another one of your selfish schemes, 06:51.000 --> 06:55.080 This one isn't selfish, it's selfless. 06:55.080 --> 06:58.120 Let's just sleep together and get married. 07:00.000 --> 07:02.040 Ji Jianming! 07:02.040 --> 07:07.800 We're just platonic soulmates, who on earth wants to sleep with you! 07:07.800 --> 07:10.960 I heard that, you just said we're soulmates. 07:10.960 --> 07:15.000 So don't you dare talk about going our separate ways ever again. 07:16.360 --> 07:18.040 Childish. 07:28.560 --> 07:29.760 It's fixed? 07:29.760 --> 07:31.640 Western gadgets aren't easy to repair. 07:31.640 --> 07:33.280 It probably costs more than buying a new one. 07:33.280 --> 07:35.560 It did, three months of my salary, in fact. 07:35.560 --> 07:38.080 Consider it a symbol of us making up. 07:40.720 --> 07:42.800 Be careful not to damage it again. 07:42.800 --> 07:45.960 Oh, and your father said not to come back no matter what happens, 07:45.960 --> 07:48.040 he'll take care of everything. 07:50.080 --> 07:55.120 No matter which side we choose, we'll offend the other. 07:55.720 --> 07:57.920 If I follow my father's approach and stay neutral, 07:57.920 --> 08:01.920 it'll be seen as an insult to the imperial family and offend His Majesty. 08:01.920 --> 08:06.240 My father has a scholar's temperament, idealistic and inflexible. 08:06.240 --> 08:08.200 He won't be able to handle this. 08:08.200 --> 08:12.040 But this must never fall into my uncle's hands. 08:12.040 --> 08:14.880 You're worried that Fifth Uncle would use your marriage 08:14.880 --> 08:18.840 to drag the Dou family into the throne succession struggle? 08:21.320 --> 08:22.720 Court politics are treacherous. 08:22.720 --> 08:27.160 How many have bled and died for power and status? 08:27.160 --> 08:31.840 All I want is a life of peace, happiness, and freedom. 08:47.680 --> 08:49.640 Teach me how to read the stars. 08:52.760 --> 08:55.720 You're someone with a unique destiny, able to grasp the workings of fate. 08:55.720 --> 08:56.920 Why do you need to read the stars? 08:56.920 --> 09:01.320 Because the road ahead feels completely dark. I can't see anything. 09:02.320 --> 09:04.680 Why cling to worldly troubles? 09:04.680 --> 09:08.200 Roam the land, sail the seas, how much freer would life be? 09:11.040 --> 09:15.240 Do you remember anything from your previous life? 09:16.720 --> 09:18.000 Who could possibly remember that? 09:18.000 --> 09:20.720 Even when I read the stars, I can only see the present. 09:20.720 --> 09:22.840 I'm no all-knowing sage. 09:25.400 --> 09:28.680 Is everything in life predetermined? 09:29.560 --> 09:34.280 If something is meant to happen, does it always come to pass? 09:36.080 --> 09:37.880 Have you heard of "stars shift, fortunes change"? 09:37.880 --> 09:40.080 The constellations change, and so do people. 09:40.080 --> 09:43.320 If everything were set in stone, why would you need to worry? 09:43.320 --> 09:47.000 Life is exciting because of its uncertainties. 09:56.440 --> 09:58.600 [Zhaowen Bookstore] 10:00.920 --> 10:03.320 Welcome back, Young Lady. 10:05.200 --> 10:07.240 What has Song Mo been up to lately? 10:07.240 --> 10:12.120 Song Mo is just doing his usual duties. 10:12.120 --> 10:15.000 Oh, and there's suspicion that the Lord of Haichang has been illegally 10:15.000 --> 10:17.120 manufacturing gunpowder and firecrackers. 10:17.120 --> 10:19.560 Song Mo is investigating the case. 10:19.560 --> 10:21.200 Unbelievable! 10:21.200 --> 10:24.880 He's still working and investigating cases? 10:24.880 --> 10:26.080 At a time like this? 10:26.080 --> 10:28.840 How does he even have the mind to focus on that? 10:28.840 --> 10:30.320 Is there something wrong with that? 10:30.320 --> 10:31.800 Nothing at all. 10:31.800 --> 10:35.000 Let him do his duty, and I'll do mine. 10:35.840 --> 10:40.360 Manager Zhao, show me the newest gilded stationery! 10:40.840 --> 10:42.840 His Grace is an imperial guard. 10:42.840 --> 10:46.080 What's wrong with him doing his duty? 10:48.520 --> 10:49.960 Higher. 10:49.960 --> 10:51.560 A little higher. 10:51.560 --> 10:53.720 Why does it have to be white? 10:53.720 --> 10:55.440 Fifth Master just sent you to the estate. 10:55.440 --> 10:59.040 What if you are caught sneaking back like this? 10:59.040 --> 11:00.320 Higher. 11:00.320 --> 11:02.000 We should go back, Young Lady. 11:02.000 --> 11:05.520 Su Xin, take down that white kite. 11:05.520 --> 11:07.520 Yes, Young Lady. 11:07.520 --> 11:09.280 I'll do it. 11:09.280 --> 11:11.280 How did you get into this courtyard? 11:11.280 --> 11:14.320 The gatekeeper said we could come in to fetch our kite. 11:14.320 --> 11:16.760 Don't play near this tree again, understood? 11:16.760 --> 11:18.680 Go now. 11:26.080 --> 11:29.120 Su Xin, take down the white tail as well. 11:29.120 --> 11:30.880 - Quickly. - Yes, Young Lady. 11:35.720 --> 11:38.880 The firecracker factory on the outskirts is connected to the Lord of Haichang. 11:38.880 --> 11:43.920 He's been colluding with men from the Shenji Battalion in the eastern suburbs. 11:43.920 --> 11:46.160 The Lord of Haichang is one of Prince Qing's men. 11:46.160 --> 11:49.160 If this gunpowder is linked to Prince Qing, 11:49.160 --> 11:52.880 does that mean Prince Qing is also colluding with the Shenji Battalion? 11:52.880 --> 11:55.040 Then this isn't just about the Lord of Haichang being bitter 11:55.040 --> 11:57.840 over Seventh Master Dou rejecting his marriage proposal. 11:58.840 --> 12:00.520 Your Grace! 12:01.720 --> 12:04.320 Your Grace, I caught someone following us. 12:04.320 --> 12:05.960 Worried it might be one of Lord of Haichang's men, 12:05.960 --> 12:08.080 I had him captured and interrogated under duress. 12:08.080 --> 12:09.920 And then... 12:09.920 --> 12:12.800 And then what? Speak up! 12:12.800 --> 12:14.280 He confessed. 12:14.280 --> 12:18.360 He said he works for Chen Qushui. 12:19.040 --> 12:22.560 Chen Qushui's man was following His Grace? 12:22.560 --> 12:26.840 But Chen Qushui has got nothing to do with the Lord of Haichang. 12:26.840 --> 12:29.640 If he's Chen Qushui's man, 12:29.640 --> 12:31.960 that means he works for Dou Zhao. 12:33.640 --> 12:36.840 Dou Zhao actually sent someone to follow me. 12:38.560 --> 12:40.000 And you beat him up! 12:40.000 --> 12:42.160 How else was I supposed to find out who he worked for? 12:42.160 --> 12:47.200 But don't worry, he's no tough guy, he confessed almost instantly. 12:47.200 --> 12:51.160 And the beating? It wasn't... 12:51.160 --> 12:52.840 that harsh. 12:55.680 --> 12:58.000 What should I do now? 12:59.160 --> 13:02.160 I couldn't take the beating, so I confessed. 13:02.160 --> 13:04.480 Then, His Grace personally untied me 13:04.480 --> 13:09.000 and even gave me a gold ingot before letting me go. 13:09.000 --> 13:11.320 Did His Grace say anything? 13:11.320 --> 13:16.200 His Grace asked me to pass along his regards to you. 13:17.560 --> 13:20.280 I've never seen so much money in my life. 13:20.280 --> 13:21.440 I didn't dare spend it. 13:21.440 --> 13:24.520 I thought I should bring it back to you. 13:24.520 --> 13:25.680 You've been through enough. 13:25.680 --> 13:28.480 Consider it your compensation for medical expenses. 13:28.480 --> 13:30.240 Keep it. 13:32.640 --> 13:35.280 Thank you, Fourth Young Lady! 13:39.400 --> 13:42.760 Fourth Young Lady, I sent the wrong man for the job. 13:42.760 --> 13:46.000 Please punish me. 13:46.000 --> 13:48.400 I'm the one who asked you to send someone to follow him. 13:48.400 --> 13:50.440 It's not your fault. 13:51.800 --> 13:55.520 I'm just feeling a little embarrassed now. 13:56.200 --> 13:57.800 Young Lady. 13:58.520 --> 14:01.680 Why don't you have some pastries and take a break? 14:09.720 --> 14:10.920 What's going on? 14:10.920 --> 14:13.520 Looks like the fireworks factory on the outskirts of the city exploded. 14:13.520 --> 14:16.800 I hope Lord Song and his men weren't there. 14:26.760 --> 14:29.000 Bring more water! 14:29.000 --> 14:30.960 This way! How did the explosion happen? 14:30.960 --> 14:33.080 Whose fireworks factory is this? 14:36.440 --> 14:38.040 Song Mo! 14:42.120 --> 14:43.200 Song Mo! 14:43.200 --> 14:46.720 Get more water! Get more water! 14:46.720 --> 14:48.840 - Song Mo! - Fourth Young Lady! 14:49.880 --> 14:52.440 - What are you doing here, Fourth Young Lady? - Where is His Grace? 14:52.440 --> 14:54.280 I'm still looking for him. 14:54.280 --> 14:55.600 What can I do? 14:55.600 --> 14:57.200 Song Mo! 14:57.960 --> 15:01.560 - Have you seen His Grace? - His Grace is still in there. 15:01.560 --> 15:04.600 - Song Mo! - Fourth Young Lady! 15:04.600 --> 15:06.320 Song Mo! 15:23.280 --> 15:24.680 A'Fu! A'Fu! 15:24.680 --> 15:26.480 I found it. It's fine. 15:26.480 --> 15:28.800 Thank you, My Lord! 15:28.800 --> 15:30.320 Come, let's go. 15:30.320 --> 15:31.840 It's very dangerous here. 15:31.840 --> 15:33.640 What are you doing here? 15:38.360 --> 15:39.960 Come with me. 15:48.800 --> 15:50.800 Is everything all right? 15:53.520 --> 15:56.560 I grew up on the estate, 15:56.560 --> 16:00.640 surrounded by advisors and guards. 16:00.640 --> 16:05.000 I've always focused on protecting myself 16:05.000 --> 16:07.960 and living on my own terms. 16:08.600 --> 16:10.800 But I've never stopped... 16:11.680 --> 16:14.000 to think about what I really wanted. 16:14.520 --> 16:16.760 But just now, 16:17.440 --> 16:19.320 I realized it. 16:22.920 --> 16:24.840 Song Mo... 16:26.440 --> 16:28.400 I like you. 16:29.080 --> 16:33.840 Deep down, I think I've always known, 16:33.840 --> 16:37.280 but I was too afraid to face a future I couldn't control. 16:37.280 --> 16:41.240 But now, I'm even more afraid of losing you. 16:47.760 --> 16:50.920 I know you've had to stand tall 16:50.920 --> 16:55.720 and smile through hardships just to survive. 16:55.720 --> 16:58.000 But with me, 16:58.000 --> 17:00.640 you can be yourself. 17:01.600 --> 17:04.400 I'll respect any decision you make... 17:05.160 --> 17:07.240 and protect you. 17:07.880 --> 17:09.800 However, 17:10.520 --> 17:13.880 I might not be a good wife. 17:14.440 --> 17:17.200 I can't follow the traditional 17:17.200 --> 17:19.880 "husband leads, wife obeys" rules, 17:19.880 --> 17:23.440 but I'll do my best to be your best partner. 17:28.000 --> 17:29.560 Good. 17:30.200 --> 17:31.760 That's good. 17:31.760 --> 17:34.600 I won't let rigid traditions bind you. 17:34.600 --> 17:36.880 If you fear the Seven Grounds for Divorce, 17:36.880 --> 17:39.120 I'll write you Seven Promises instead. 17:59.960 --> 18:01.760 Your Grace! 18:01.760 --> 18:05.920 The warehouse is full of fireworks. The fire is impossible to put out! 18:07.600 --> 18:09.200 Clear the surrounding area. 18:09.200 --> 18:10.400 Your Grace... 18:10.400 --> 18:11.760 Don't let the fire spread. 18:11.760 --> 18:14.040 We'll handle it, Your Grace. 18:14.040 --> 18:15.280 - You're so clueless! - Huh? 18:15.280 --> 18:16.800 Just go! 18:16.800 --> 18:18.720 Su Xin. Su Lan. 18:19.400 --> 18:21.680 Go and help them 18:23.680 --> 18:27.240 - This is all your fault. We got caught! - I just wanted a closer look! 18:31.520 --> 18:34.120 Even though I've accepted your proposal, 18:34.120 --> 18:38.720 I doubt my father, my uncle, and even your father 18:38.720 --> 18:40.880 will approve so easily. 18:40.880 --> 18:42.680 Don't worry about that. 18:42.680 --> 18:48.160 Since I've decided to marry you, I'll handle your father. 18:48.160 --> 18:51.360 I'll propose formally and marry you with all proper rites. 18:51.360 --> 18:53.280 How could I let you face it alone? 18:53.280 --> 18:55.280 I'll help you. 19:03.000 --> 19:06.720 ♫ Urging the horse, the rain is pounding, I cross the ravaged hill ♫ 19:06.720 --> 19:10.960 ♫ Hearing the wind raging in the night, it is coming again ♫ 19:11.040 --> 19:14.120 ♫ The fog has yet to dissipate from the cloud platform ♫ 19:15.240 --> 19:19.720 But the time we agreed upon is almost here. 19:19.720 --> 19:24.800 I'm afraid it's too late to hang the red ribbon on the tree by the gate. 19:27.440 --> 19:29.320 That doesn't matter anymore. 19:33.480 --> 19:38.320 ♫ Or maybe there is no shore in the end for your heart to reach ♫ 19:38.320 --> 19:41.920 ♫ It’s indispensable to have you by my side ♫ 19:41.920 --> 19:50.400 ♫ Just like the starship that crossed the barren river, it carried me for a while ♫ 20:02.240 --> 20:06.680 Having the champion of the hunting tournament teach me to ride feels like overkill. 20:06.680 --> 20:08.840 Your steed looks incredibly valuable. 20:08.840 --> 20:10.640 You really don't mind me riding it? 20:10.640 --> 20:11.840 Of course. 20:11.840 --> 20:14.200 Do you like it, Your Highness? 20:14.200 --> 20:15.920 I do. 20:15.920 --> 20:19.120 As long as you're happy, I'm at your service anytime. 20:19.120 --> 20:21.280 This is my first time riding. 20:21.280 --> 20:23.240 I'm a little nervous. 20:23.240 --> 20:25.440 The key to riding is staying relaxed. 20:26.080 --> 20:28.800 As long as you sit steadily, nothing will go wrong. 20:28.800 --> 20:32.000 Yantang, riding is actually quite fun. 20:32.000 --> 20:34.600 Will you come and teach me every day? 20:34.600 --> 20:37.160 If that's you want, 20:37.160 --> 20:39.040 I'd be happy to. 21:04.760 --> 21:06.720 Stop, stop. 21:06.720 --> 21:10.480 The Ballad of the Mountain Spirit carries a tone of deep affection and gentle elegance. 21:10.480 --> 21:12.920 Zi Mu admires her beauty and grace. 21:12.920 --> 21:16.240 You haven't grasped the depth of its meaning. 21:19.640 --> 21:23.800 Mother is gone. 21:23.800 --> 21:26.280 What's the point of practicing this? 21:26.280 --> 21:27.840 You... 21:28.560 --> 21:31.120 Your Grace. Young Master. 21:31.120 --> 21:32.920 What's the matter? 21:38.160 --> 21:41.480 Go back and reflect on it. 21:41.480 --> 21:43.000 Yes, Father. 22:00.960 --> 22:03.120 - What is it? - His Grace has been out 22:03.120 --> 22:05.920 with Princess Jingyu for three days in a row. 22:05.920 --> 22:07.960 They were just at the riding grounds together. 22:07.960 --> 22:09.480 Everyone's talking, 22:09.480 --> 22:14.720 saying he and the princess might get married. 22:14.720 --> 22:19.160 His Majesty did hint at a marriage proposal during the hunting tournament. 22:20.440 --> 22:23.440 He clearly isn't letting this opportunity slip by. 22:23.440 --> 22:25.680 Ever since Song Mo moved out, 22:25.680 --> 22:29.040 he's been abusing His Majesty's favor to do as he pleases. 22:29.040 --> 22:32.160 If he became the son-in-law of the emperor, 22:33.760 --> 22:39.280 he'll trample all over my Duke of Ying mansion. 22:39.280 --> 22:41.960 Marriage is dictated by parental consent. 22:41.960 --> 22:46.480 If you arrange a match for him first, 22:46.480 --> 22:50.760 it would make it difficult for His Majesty to decree another. 22:53.600 --> 22:56.880 Your Grace, these ladies are from distinguished families; 22:56.880 --> 22:59.800 beautiful, intelligent, gentle, respectful, and frugal. 22:59.800 --> 23:03.440 They're also just the right age for His Grace. 23:10.160 --> 23:11.760 Leave us. 23:15.600 --> 23:18.160 If you have any preferences or concerns, 23:18.160 --> 23:20.880 please let me know. 23:24.960 --> 23:28.000 My son has a rebellious nature. 23:28.000 --> 23:31.160 Those gentle and virtuous ladies won't be able to handle him. 23:31.160 --> 23:36.600 Find him a mean shrew instead. 23:36.600 --> 23:38.800 A shrew? 23:40.920 --> 23:43.920 That's quite an unusual request. 23:43.920 --> 23:47.080 I've never heard that before. 23:47.840 --> 23:50.560 But there is someone who might fit the bill. 23:50.560 --> 23:54.120 There's Dou Zhao, the fourth daughter of the Dou family. 23:54.120 --> 23:58.360 She's said to be arrogant, feisty, and quite shrewish. 23:58.360 --> 24:01.760 She grew up in the countryside of Zhending. 24:01.760 --> 24:04.520 Rumor has it she's a shrew. 24:05.600 --> 24:07.000 Really? 24:07.000 --> 24:08.160 Yes! 24:08.160 --> 24:11.600 Even the Marquis of Jining would rather endure the scandal of abandoning the older sister 24:11.600 --> 24:13.760 and marrying the younger sister instead. 24:13.760 --> 24:17.720 That says plenty about how unvirtuous Dou Zhao must be. 24:17.720 --> 24:19.240 Excellent. 24:19.840 --> 24:21.520 Excellent! 24:22.520 --> 24:24.640 Go and make the arrangements! 24:24.640 --> 24:26.360 Yes, Your Grace. 24:32.720 --> 24:36.760 Your Grace, are you really considering Dou Zhao? 24:36.760 --> 24:38.840 The Dou family is perfect. 24:38.840 --> 24:43.240 Song Mo and Fifth Master Dou are already at each other's throats like fighting cockerels. 24:43.240 --> 24:45.880 If those two end up married, 24:45.880 --> 24:51.120 he won't have a moment of peace in his household. 24:51.120 --> 24:54.680 By the way, just to be safe, 24:54.680 --> 24:59.240 go to Zhending and find out more about this girl. 24:59.240 --> 25:00.440 Yes, Your Grace. 25:00.440 --> 25:02.960 [Tea] 25:02.960 --> 25:06.240 Fourth Young Lady only has the dowry left by her birth mother, 25:06.240 --> 25:12.000 which I'd estimate to be no more than one or two thousand taels of silver. 25:12.000 --> 25:14.640 Fifth Young Lady, on the other hand, 25:14.640 --> 25:17.680 has a maternal grandfather who is the Minister of War. 25:17.680 --> 25:21.560 Compared to Fifth Young Lady, she's definitely at a disadvantage. 25:21.560 --> 25:25.880 But isn't Dou Zhao said to be the wealthiest in Zhending? 25:25.880 --> 25:27.200 That was in the past. 25:27.200 --> 25:28.840 Now that maritime trade isn't doing well, 25:28.840 --> 25:30.600 - she's lost most of her money. - That's right. 25:30.600 --> 25:33.240 And all her remaining assets are under the control of her stepmother. 25:33.240 --> 25:36.560 These days, she's basically living off the dowry her birth mother left her. 25:36.560 --> 25:39.600 She's nothing but a mean shrew. 25:39.600 --> 25:42.440 When the heavy rains nearly flooded Zhending, 25:42.440 --> 25:45.640 we suggested substituting sorghum for wheat. 25:45.640 --> 25:48.920 But no matter how we pleaded, she flat-out refused 25:48.920 --> 25:51.960 and insisted the farmers deliver wheat. 25:51.960 --> 25:53.240 She made things hard for us. 25:53.240 --> 25:56.160 She's not just a shrew, she's vicious. 25:56.160 --> 25:58.520 Fourth Young Lady once took a fancy to Young Master Pang Kunbai 25:58.520 --> 26:00.560 from the Pang family in the capital 26:00.560 --> 26:02.200 and demanded to marry him. 26:02.200 --> 26:04.240 Naturally, the young master refused. 26:04.240 --> 26:07.440 And she had her guards beat him up. 26:07.440 --> 26:09.160 Everyone in Zhending knows about Dou Zhao. 26:09.160 --> 26:12.280 Her grandmother raised her, but she turned out to be an ungrateful wretch. 26:12.280 --> 26:13.960 To climb the social ladder, 26:13.960 --> 26:16.000 she abandoned her grandmother and moved back to the capital. 26:16.000 --> 26:19.440 She even bribed the county court, in case the Pang family went to sue her. 26:19.440 --> 26:23.840 In the end, Young Master Pang was branded as someone who harassed women. 26:23.840 --> 26:25.720 It's despicable! 26:25.720 --> 26:28.480 Such audacity. 26:28.480 --> 26:32.240 She really does sound like a ruthless and spiteful woman. 26:32.240 --> 26:33.560 [Yizhi Hall] 26:33.560 --> 26:37.920 I heard you put in a good word for me with His Majesty. 26:37.920 --> 26:42.120 Not only have I been reinstated, but His Majesty even praised me. 26:42.120 --> 26:46.520 Your reinstatement is entirely due to your own wisdom and integrity. 26:46.520 --> 26:49.560 His Majesty recognizes your love and concern for your daughter. 26:49.560 --> 26:53.000 Though there were criticisms, he couldn't bear to be too harsh. 26:53.000 --> 26:56.520 But I didn't really do anything noteworthy. 26:56.520 --> 26:58.720 On the contrary. Putting Dou Zhao's matter aside, 26:58.720 --> 27:02.520 we also owe you for the swift resolution of the fireworks case outside the city. 27:02.520 --> 27:04.200 The fireworks case? 27:04.200 --> 27:05.920 How am I involved in that? 27:05.920 --> 27:09.320 Your courage in kicking the Lord of Haichang out of your house despite his rank 27:09.320 --> 27:12.160 was something few officials would dare to do. 27:12.160 --> 27:15.320 Because of your boldness, theLord of Haichang's plot was uncovered, 27:15.320 --> 27:18.440 and the case was solved so quickly. 27:18.440 --> 27:21.520 The credit is yours. 27:21.520 --> 27:25.920 Frankly, I should be thanking you. 27:26.800 --> 27:29.920 Hearing that from you, I do feel rather pleased. 27:29.920 --> 27:32.000 - Please enjoy. - Enjoy. 27:36.920 --> 27:39.000 This is excellent wine! 27:43.920 --> 27:46.520 It would be wasted sitting in my residence. 27:46.520 --> 27:48.680 You must accept it. 27:48.680 --> 27:51.560 This is Ganlubai wine, a gift from His Majesty! 27:51.560 --> 27:54.080 Just a small token of my gratitude. 27:54.840 --> 27:58.440 You have countless classics here, a vast ocean of knowledge. 27:58.440 --> 28:02.920 It's truly impressive that you can sit down and read them. 28:06.040 --> 28:08.320 [Spring and Autumn Annals] 28:09.880 --> 28:12.520 This is a rare copy from a previous dynasty. 28:12.520 --> 28:16.000 If you like it, you can have it. 28:16.000 --> 28:17.400 No. 28:17.400 --> 28:19.720 A gentleman does not take what another treasures. 28:19.720 --> 28:22.720 You should keep it, since you read it often. 28:24.640 --> 28:27.480 I've long heard of your elegant and refined calligraphy, 28:27.480 --> 28:29.840 though I've yet to see it for myself. 28:29.840 --> 28:33.200 These writing utensils are fit for a scholar of the highest caliber. 28:33.200 --> 28:36.640 They're wasted in the hands of a mere military man like me. 28:39.600 --> 28:42.200 This is Jijin ink. 28:43.160 --> 28:45.760 And a purple-haired brush. 28:50.520 --> 28:52.600 An enamel inkstone. 28:53.200 --> 28:56.960 They say it keeps the ink warm and prevents it from drying out. 28:59.840 --> 29:01.480 This is absolutely ridiculous! 29:01.480 --> 29:03.280 Go and ask around on the streets. 29:03.280 --> 29:06.440 People will tell you how Song Mo forcefully seized his father's residence. 29:06.440 --> 29:08.520 When he saved me from the startled horse last time, 29:08.520 --> 29:11.600 I realized he's not like the rumors say. 29:11.600 --> 29:15.880 He's a well-rounded, courteous, and reliable young man. 29:15.880 --> 29:18.280 People envy talent. 29:18.280 --> 29:22.640 That's why the rumors are baseless and exaggerated. 29:23.640 --> 29:28.960 Besides, I promised Shougu that her marriage would be her choice. 29:28.960 --> 29:33.160 And don't forget, she has an imperial edict. 29:33.160 --> 29:35.600 The world has gone mad! 29:35.600 --> 29:38.680 Since when does a woman get to choose her husband? 29:39.280 --> 29:42.360 Dou Zhao doesn't know what she's doing, 29:42.360 --> 29:44.560 and you're indulging her. 29:46.320 --> 29:48.400 Even if you want him as your son-in-law, 29:48.400 --> 29:53.160 Duke of Ying that old fox will never agree. 29:54.360 --> 29:55.640 Master! 29:55.640 --> 29:57.240 Master! 29:59.640 --> 30:02.520 Master, Duke of Ying has sent betrothal gifts for his son. 30:02.520 --> 30:05.040 The chests are lined up outside our gate! 30:05.680 --> 30:08.480 Are you talking about Song Yichun, the Duke of Ying? 30:08.480 --> 30:12.520 Yes, Fifth Master. His Grace's name is written right there on the letter. 30:19.200 --> 30:20.480 Didn't I tell you? 30:20.480 --> 30:23.360 Your father would come bearing a betrothal gift in three days. 30:23.360 --> 30:24.720 Just as you predicted, my strategist. 30:24.720 --> 30:27.760 If I openly declared I wanted to marry you, he'd never let it happen. 30:27.760 --> 30:30.600 By doing the opposite and letting him think he had chosen a shrew to break up 30:30.600 --> 30:32.960 my supposed match with the princess, I got exactly what I wanted. 30:32.960 --> 30:37.400 Of course, we couldn't have done it without Princess Jingyu's help. 30:38.280 --> 30:39.920 Congratulations on your victory, Your Grace. 30:39.920 --> 30:43.360 Congratulations on your triumph, Fourth Young Lady. 30:46.600 --> 30:47.800 Mission accomplished! 30:47.800 --> 30:49.400 A flawless execution! 30:49.400 --> 30:51.720 - A perfect match! - Harmony and unity! 30:51.720 --> 30:53.840 A couple destined for greatness! 30:56.960 --> 30:58.960 What? Isn't that right? 30:58.960 --> 31:00.520 Or should I have said, "May you be blessed with children, 31:00.520 --> 31:04.240 endless happiness, prosperity, and great fortune in the Year of the Dragon"? 31:17.240 --> 31:18.840 Master. 31:21.880 --> 31:24.240 We received a letter from the silversmith. 31:29.280 --> 31:33.320 [For our long-term plan, this marriage is very good.] 31:39.440 --> 31:41.440 Bring the betrothal gifts into the residence. 31:41.440 --> 31:43.040 Yes, Master. 31:56.880 --> 31:58.720 Higher. There. 31:58.720 --> 32:01.280 Higher, higher. 32:01.280 --> 32:03.600 [Trees in Spring and Clouds during Sunset] 32:03.600 --> 32:04.640 Good. 32:08.360 --> 32:09.920 This paper cutting is so beautiful. 32:09.920 --> 32:11.520 I know, right? 32:13.880 --> 32:19.160 The cuffs need to be taken in by half an inch, and the skirt lengthened by an inch. 32:25.640 --> 32:29.200 As for the phoenix crown, embroider a phoenix flying through peonies, 32:29.200 --> 32:33.200 then embellish it with some red and blue gems and cat's-eye stones. 32:33.200 --> 32:35.240 All right, Su Su. 32:35.240 --> 32:37.600 Stop fussing. 32:38.840 --> 32:40.480 You made this special trip back, 32:40.480 --> 32:42.640 but you haven't even had time to sit down for a proper chat. 32:42.640 --> 32:47.200 You've been busy picking fabrics, adjusting measurements, and choosing patterns. 32:47.200 --> 32:48.720 Just look at your poor fingers. 32:48.720 --> 32:50.360 I'm enjoying myself. 32:50.360 --> 32:52.160 You better not say it's not worth the effort. 32:52.160 --> 32:55.000 Even if you end up stitching a bald phoenix, I'll still wear it. 32:57.720 --> 33:00.080 Oh, I hired a security bureau to deliver the personal belongings 33:00.080 --> 33:02.920 you left with me and the profits from the potato business. 33:02.920 --> 33:04.400 They're already on the way. 33:04.400 --> 33:07.120 But that's a hefty sum. 33:07.120 --> 33:09.320 Do you really trust Song Mo? 33:09.320 --> 33:10.840 Shougu! Su Su! 33:10.840 --> 33:13.160 This is the 28th variation of wedding pastries I've made. 33:13.160 --> 33:15.520 Su Xin, Su Lan. Why don't you taste them for Shougu first? 33:15.520 --> 33:18.760 My stomach's feeling a bit off. I need the restroom. 33:18.760 --> 33:20.880 I'm going to adjust the dress for Su Su. 33:20.880 --> 33:22.520 Hang on... 33:23.320 --> 33:26.960 - Su Su... - Sister Ru, don't overdo it. 33:26.960 --> 33:28.960 We've tried seven or eight batches of wedding pastries a day. 33:28.960 --> 33:31.440 How's our stomach supposed to handle that? 33:31.440 --> 33:34.720 I just want the best wedding pastries for Shougu! 33:34.720 --> 33:37.280 These are already the best. 33:39.120 --> 33:40.960 If you send these out, 33:40.960 --> 33:44.560 you'll put half the pastry shops in the capital out of business. 33:44.560 --> 33:46.600 Really? You hear that? 33:46.600 --> 33:48.400 Fourth Young Lady. 33:48.400 --> 33:50.360 - Fourth Young Lady. - Grandmother. 33:50.360 --> 33:52.880 Old Madam wouldn't let anyone else touch this chest. 33:52.880 --> 33:55.920 She insisted on handing it to you personally. 33:57.880 --> 34:03.160 I've been saving up these jewelry pieces and estates for you. 34:03.160 --> 34:05.960 A woman can never have too much dowry to stand on her own. 34:05.960 --> 34:10.720 The more secure you feel, the more at ease I'll be. 34:16.560 --> 34:20.320 This pendant has been passed down through generations of the Cui family. 34:20.320 --> 34:25.000 In the future, the scholarly officials and upright ministers from the Cui Academy 34:25.000 --> 34:28.720 will also serve as your support as the wife of His Grace. 34:31.440 --> 34:35.080 I told you I'd take you to see the beauty of the mountains and rivers, 34:35.080 --> 34:37.560 but now I'm getting married before that. 34:38.760 --> 34:41.400 Grandmother, I promise I'll... 34:41.400 --> 34:42.680 That can wait. 34:42.680 --> 34:45.200 A beautiful flower does not bloom for those who only seek fleeting fragrance. 34:45.200 --> 34:48.200 As long as Song Mo cherishes you, 34:48.200 --> 34:50.920 the beauty of the mountains and rivers will always be within reach. 34:50.920 --> 34:54.200 Marriage isn't the only path for a woman. 34:54.200 --> 34:58.480 But since you've chosen this path, it must be a fulfilling and happy union. 34:58.480 --> 35:02.480 If you're ever wronged, don't bear it in silence. 35:02.480 --> 35:05.120 This will always be your home. 35:07.560 --> 35:12.000 By the way, after working all afternoon, why haven't we seen Uncle around? 35:14.640 --> 35:19.600 My son may not be the most eloquent or quick to act, 35:19.600 --> 35:23.480 but at least he cares a lot and keeps his promises. 35:23.480 --> 35:29.440 Shougu, the bracelet your mother left you wasn't just one, 35:30.400 --> 35:32.600 it was a pair. 35:32.600 --> 35:34.440 A pair? 35:37.200 --> 35:40.240 Yes, the other one was originally worn by Shi Ying. 35:40.240 --> 35:42.600 When you were born, it was agreed 35:42.600 --> 35:47.400 that the bracelets would be passed on to you and your future husband. 35:48.720 --> 35:51.800 Two perfect jade bracelets, 35:51.800 --> 35:55.520 just like two hearts perfectly matched. 35:55.520 --> 35:58.280 On the first anniversary of Gu Qiu's passing, 35:58.280 --> 36:02.160 Shi Ying buried the bracelet along with a jar of Nuerhong wine 36:02.160 --> 36:05.560 under the large tree on the estate. 36:05.560 --> 36:09.000 But over the years, that area was repurposed for military farmland, 36:09.000 --> 36:13.800 the tree was cut, and several floods followed... 36:13.800 --> 36:19.800 How can Gu Qiu rest easy if Shougu marries without it? 36:27.480 --> 36:29.160 Father. 36:41.800 --> 36:45.480 I'm sorry, Shougu. 36:46.560 --> 36:48.360 Let us find it. 37:00.800 --> 37:02.960 Your Grace, why don't you go over to her? 37:02.960 --> 37:04.760 Why are we watching from here? 37:04.760 --> 37:08.000 Didn't they say meeting before the wedding brings bad luck? 37:17.560 --> 37:20.400 It's just a bracelet, is this really necessary? 37:22.880 --> 37:25.040 It's a keepsake from my mother. 37:25.040 --> 37:28.120 You're too indifferent to understand something like this. 37:29.800 --> 37:33.120 You're feeling unsure about the marriage, so you want a keepsake for reassurance. 37:33.120 --> 37:36.080 How about I give you something more practical? 37:37.600 --> 37:40.240 This is a true champion horse from the Liaodong horse market. 37:40.240 --> 37:43.480 If you ever grow tired of it, regret it, 37:43.480 --> 37:46.800 or are mistreated, you can ride it and come find me. 37:46.800 --> 37:49.480 I guarantee Song Mo won't be able to catch up to you. 37:49.480 --> 37:51.840 It's Ji Yong again! 37:58.640 --> 38:00.120 Bai? 38:00.120 --> 38:01.440 Bai? 38:01.440 --> 38:03.160 Bai? 38:04.400 --> 38:06.680 All Mother ever wished for was for me 38:06.680 --> 38:10.040 to find a perfect match who loved me as much as I loved him. 38:10.880 --> 38:13.960 And yet, I can't find the other jade bracelet. 38:13.960 --> 38:16.360 Has she lost faith in me? 38:17.240 --> 38:18.840 Shougu. 38:33.800 --> 38:35.600 Why are you covering your eyes? 38:35.600 --> 38:38.200 It's bad luck to see the bride before the wedding. 38:38.200 --> 38:40.440 Your father said so. 38:40.440 --> 38:42.760 I'll help you look for it. 38:42.760 --> 38:44.480 It's fine. 38:44.480 --> 38:49.040 We've looked for it for so long, I don't think we'll find it. 38:50.040 --> 38:53.560 There's so much to prepare for the wedding. You should go take care of that. 38:53.560 --> 38:55.520 It's really no big deal. 39:05.600 --> 39:07.320 Tomorrow's the big day. 39:07.320 --> 39:10.600 I'd like to go over everything for the wedding one more time. 39:10.600 --> 39:15.160 We've got 100 taels of gold, 500 taels of silver, and five chests of embroidered dresses... 39:15.160 --> 39:18.200 Let go of me! I wasn't eavesdropping! Let go! 39:18.200 --> 39:20.280 - Walk! - Release me at once! 39:20.280 --> 39:23.320 HIs Grace is about to be married, and you dare to spy on her? 39:23.320 --> 39:26.240 - You insolent brat! - Who sent you? 39:26.240 --> 39:28.320 Uncle? 39:28.320 --> 39:29.760 - Shougu! - Uncle? 39:29.760 --> 39:31.360 Hands off me! 39:32.360 --> 39:34.800 So you're Lord Zhao! My apologies! 39:34.800 --> 39:37.400 I worked hard to get half a month off, 39:37.400 --> 39:39.720 and I traveled a long way to attend your wedding, 39:39.720 --> 39:42.520 and yet I've been treated like a thief! 39:43.480 --> 39:46.120 Tell me! Do I look like a thief? 39:46.120 --> 39:50.240 With all these armed guards around, is this a wedding or a prison transfer? 39:50.240 --> 39:55.680 Sir, His Grace only stationed us here to prevent another bride-swapping incident. 39:55.680 --> 39:58.040 You had mud on your shoes and were lurking around the wall... 39:58.040 --> 40:00.920 - Let's go! - That's why I misunderstood. 40:03.560 --> 40:05.800 You messed up again. 40:10.720 --> 40:13.120 You've seen it yourself. 40:13.120 --> 40:15.120 Just looking at Song Mo's men, 40:15.120 --> 40:19.400 you can tell he's naturally suspicious and ruthless. 40:19.400 --> 40:23.840 Are you really going to marry such a cruel and violent man? 40:23.840 --> 40:29.440 Uncle, others also say I'm selfish, fierce, greedy, 40:29.440 --> 40:31.080 and that I have the face of a shrew. 40:31.080 --> 40:33.360 Outsiders are often biased. 40:33.360 --> 40:35.440 Don't take them seriously. 40:35.440 --> 40:37.720 Song Mo isn't like that. 40:37.720 --> 40:41.000 Back in Futing, he devoted himself to protecting the people, 40:41.000 --> 40:43.080 leading troops to eradicate the pirates. 40:43.080 --> 40:48.120 How could someone so dedicated to the people be the violent brute you're describing? 40:48.120 --> 40:52.680 Don't let your feelings cloud your judgment or let his appearance fool you. 40:52.680 --> 40:58.320 I've heard rumors that he slaughtered all the guards in his residence for no reason. 40:58.320 --> 41:01.560 Do you think someone like that is a good person? 41:01.560 --> 41:06.840 Have you considered that the Duke of Ying's family is a den of tigers and wolves? 41:06.840 --> 41:09.320 A noble family is far more treacherous than a mere official's family. 41:09.320 --> 41:14.360 Just look at the duke himself, their family is not a good family to marry into. 41:14.360 --> 41:16.440 I know you're saying this for my own good, 41:16.440 --> 41:20.320 but I believe he really cares for me and will protect me. 41:20.320 --> 41:22.600 I want to marry him. 41:28.560 --> 41:30.720 If that's what you've decided, 41:31.840 --> 41:34.120 I'll support you. 41:34.120 --> 41:39.160 Your mother used to say that there's no right or wrong choice in love, 41:39.160 --> 41:42.640 as long as it's from the heart and without regret. 41:42.640 --> 41:45.320 She would have supported you, 41:45.320 --> 41:48.920 just as she never regretted marrying your father. 41:48.920 --> 41:53.920 If Gu Qiu's spirit could see that you've found someone you're happy with, 41:53.920 --> 41:56.760 she'd surely be even happier than I am. 42:13.760 --> 42:15.400 Is the letter delivered? 42:15.400 --> 42:18.600 I wonder if her father-in-law will even let her in that door. 42:18.600 --> 42:22.320 It was a bride swap last time, don't tell me this time it's a runaway groom? 42:22.320 --> 42:24.200 Dou Zhao!