WEBVTT 00:00:07.040 --> 00:00:09.800 align:center Recently, Youting has been sending local specialties as gifts 00:00:09.800 --> 00:00:14.720 align:center to noble families and officials in the capital for the Mid-Autumn Festival. 00:00:14.720 --> 00:00:17.840 align:center Even Minister Dou has accepted lavish gifts from him. 00:00:17.840 --> 00:00:19.920 align:center Their interactions have grown frequent. 00:00:19.920 --> 00:00:21.800 align:center What's your take on this? 00:00:23.520 --> 00:00:25.720 align:center I would not criticizea senior minister lightly. 00:00:25.720 --> 00:00:29.320 align:center Besides, with the northern Lichen clan petitioning for additional grain supplies, 00:00:29.320 --> 00:00:35.520 align:center only Minister Dou, fluent in their language, can navigate such delicate diplomacy. 00:00:35.520 --> 00:00:40.960 align:center If we dismiss him based on mere associations, it would unsettle the people of Liaodong. 00:00:40.960 --> 00:00:45.920 align:center You don't suspect that Prince Qing's friendship with Dou Shishu 00:00:45.920 --> 00:00:49.400 align:center might be a ploy to undermine your standing as the crown prince? 00:00:49.400 --> 00:00:50.920 align:center Your health is already fragile. 00:00:50.920 --> 00:00:53.800 align:center If we fight among ourselves now, it would be the height of filial impiety 00:00:53.800 --> 00:00:59.240 align:center and would only amplify the court's atmosphere of suspicion and division, 00:00:59.240 --> 00:01:03.200 align:center disappointing both officials and the people. 00:01:10.120 --> 00:01:13.440 align:center You've grown wiser, but remember, 00:01:13.440 --> 00:01:17.480 align:center one hand alone cannot clap, and a single tree cannot support a forest. 00:01:17.480 --> 00:01:19.960 align:center Leadership requires unity and collaboration. 00:01:19.960 --> 00:01:24.280 align:center You should learn from your brother on how to win the hearts of the capable. 00:01:28.040 --> 00:01:31.400 align:center I may lack finesse, but I focus on diligence, self-discipline, 00:01:31.400 --> 00:01:33.440 align:center loyalty, and serving the people. 00:01:33.440 --> 00:01:38.040 align:center I've spent years giving my all to live up to the responsibility of being the crown prince 00:01:38.040 --> 00:01:39.960 align:center and honoring... 00:01:40.800 --> 00:01:43.600 align:center the legacy of our ancestors. 00:01:45.400 --> 00:01:47.320 align:center You may go. 00:02:04.560 --> 00:02:07.720 align:center What do you think of the crown Prince? 00:02:10.920 --> 00:02:13.480 align:center This concerns the successor of the throne. 00:02:13.480 --> 00:02:15.760 align:center I wouldn't dare to speak out of turn. 00:02:15.760 --> 00:02:19.440 align:center You watched him grow up. 00:02:19.440 --> 00:02:25.600 align:center He appears proud and reserved, but he actually has a kind heart. 00:02:25.600 --> 00:02:27.480 align:center Every year on my birthday, 00:02:27.480 --> 00:02:31.120 align:center others try to curry favor with auspicious gifts or mystical advisors, 00:02:31.120 --> 00:02:36.920 align:center but he consistently sends locust samples, seedlings, and raw silk from across the empire. 00:02:36.920 --> 00:02:41.320 align:center He doesn't even know how to put on a show, let alone build factions. 00:02:41.320 --> 00:02:46.960 align:center I don't know whether to blame Liang Jifang for teaching him too well or too naively. 00:02:46.960 --> 00:02:49.040 align:center Your Majesty, your efforts have borne fruit. 00:02:49.040 --> 00:02:51.680 align:center The crown prince's integrity and uprightness 00:02:51.680 --> 00:02:55.160 align:center will naturally inspire loyalty from worthy officials. 00:02:55.160 --> 00:02:59.240 align:center Yousheng is not just the crown prince of the empire, 00:02:59.240 --> 00:03:01.800 align:center he's also my son. 00:03:01.800 --> 00:03:04.760 align:center Yantang is a sword sharp enough to be of use. 00:03:06.480 --> 00:03:10.160 align:center It's time the crown prince learns how to wield it. 00:03:32.000 --> 00:03:33.720 align:center [Yizhi Hall] 00:03:35.360 --> 00:03:39.680 align:center So the crown prince's moves were meant to monitor and warn you, 00:03:39.680 --> 00:03:41.920 align:center not to draw you to his side. 00:03:41.920 --> 00:03:45.240 align:center The crown prince's focus is on securing the empire. 00:03:45.240 --> 00:03:47.920 align:center He already sees the throne as his. 00:03:47.920 --> 00:03:50.240 align:center He isn't the mastermind behind this. 00:03:52.560 --> 00:03:58.040 align:center If the crown prince's influence weakens, and Prince Qing really wants to seize the throne, 00:03:58.040 --> 00:03:59.840 align:center what would his first move be? 00:03:59.840 --> 00:04:03.040 align:center First, he'd target military power. 00:04:03.040 --> 00:04:06.360 align:center Many of the noble families who command troops already favor Prince Qing. 00:04:06.360 --> 00:04:08.880 align:center With the horse market in Liaodong and control of the border trade, 00:04:08.880 --> 00:04:11.200 align:center he could sustain any army size. 00:04:11.200 --> 00:04:17.120 align:center Dou Shishu oversees the Ministry of War and manages all troop deployments. 00:04:17.120 --> 00:04:18.800 align:center If he sided with Prince Qing, 00:04:18.800 --> 00:04:23.000 align:center they could quietly amass forces and march straight into the capital. 00:04:23.680 --> 00:04:26.720 align:center Second, before initiating a rebellion, 00:04:26.720 --> 00:04:29.520 align:center Prince Qing would need to silence key officials to block any warnings. 00:04:29.520 --> 00:04:34.640 align:center If he succeeded, he would then require the support of the civil officials to stabilize governance. 00:04:34.640 --> 00:04:37.880 align:center If that's the case, other than Fifth Uncle, 00:04:37.880 --> 00:04:40.240 align:center there must be many within the Six Ministries, the Nine Court Ministers, 00:04:40.240 --> 00:04:44.080 align:center and even the palace who secretly support Prince Qing. 00:04:44.800 --> 00:04:48.760 align:center I've heard from Mr. Chen that Mu Chuan's promotion to Minister of Works 00:04:48.760 --> 00:04:51.280 align:center was thanks to Empress Wan. 00:04:53.040 --> 00:04:55.360 align:center Beyond military power and the outer court, 00:04:55.360 --> 00:04:58.200 align:center the key lies within the palace and the capital's defenses, 00:04:58.200 --> 00:05:01.480 align:center especially the Imperial Guards. 00:05:01.480 --> 00:05:05.720 align:center From Wei Lue's coup at Gaoping Tomb to the Xuanwu Gate Incident in the Tang Dynasty, 00:05:05.720 --> 00:05:09.800 align:center the critical blow in each case came from the support of the Imperial Guards. 00:05:09.800 --> 00:05:14.440 align:center No matter which direction they launch their rebellion from, they can't bypass you. 00:05:15.000 --> 00:05:17.800 align:center Which is why, after the chaos of the bandits entering the capital, 00:05:17.800 --> 00:05:20.760 align:center they replaced the city's defenses with their own men. 00:05:20.760 --> 00:05:26.440 align:center When the time comes, they could either open the gates wide or directly confine His Majesty. 00:05:26.440 --> 00:05:28.800 align:center It would all be over in one move. 00:05:28.800 --> 00:05:32.240 align:center Among the eunuchs, aside from the two Eunuch Wangs, 00:05:32.240 --> 00:05:35.920 align:center there are six or seven others who wield great power. 00:05:35.920 --> 00:05:40.320 align:center If we investigate each one individually, we risk alarming them. 00:05:40.320 --> 00:05:43.600 align:center The crown prince has always carried himself as if he has no ambitions. 00:05:43.600 --> 00:05:45.520 align:center It's hard to discern his true intentions. 00:05:45.520 --> 00:05:49.000 align:center But if he's aware of what Prince Qing is trying to do, 00:05:49.000 --> 00:05:51.320 align:center would he panic and react rashly, 00:05:51.320 --> 00:05:56.160 align:center or would he quietly maneuver behind the scenes? 00:05:56.160 --> 00:06:00.200 align:center Perhaps we should first test the crown prince's influence. 00:06:00.920 --> 00:06:03.800 align:center Prince Qing seems to have the stronger odds. 00:06:03.800 --> 00:06:09.920 align:center But if I side with Prince Qing, even if he succeeds, 00:06:09.920 --> 00:06:12.600 align:center he'll forever be branded as a thief of the throne, a traitor to the dynasty. 00:06:12.600 --> 00:06:17.320 align:center Whether he succeeds or fails, the outcome won't end well for his supporters. 00:06:19.960 --> 00:06:24.480 align:center Prince Qing hasn't even taken the throne yet, 00:06:24.480 --> 00:06:28.200 align:center and he's already setting out to eliminate his allies. 00:06:36.400 --> 00:06:40.320 align:center Don't worry. I know where to draw the line. 00:06:40.320 --> 00:06:44.000 align:center I won't let blind loyalty cause you any suffering. 00:06:49.480 --> 00:06:54.120 align:center Fifth Uncle has aligned himself with Prince Qing. Conspiring to undermine imperial authority. 00:06:54.120 --> 00:06:57.840 align:center If uncovered, it would be a grave offense. 00:06:58.640 --> 00:07:03.240 align:center My grandmother, father, and even I would be implicated. 00:07:03.920 --> 00:07:07.520 align:center When Empress Wan pushed for our marriage, 00:07:07.520 --> 00:07:12.360 align:center it must have been part of the scheme to make you hesitate in your actions. 00:07:13.800 --> 00:07:15.720 align:center As the art of war teaches, 00:07:15.720 --> 00:07:19.680 align:center to overthrow armies and kill generals, you must exploit their five vulnerabilities. 00:07:19.680 --> 00:07:22.160 align:center The cruelest among them is leveraging their compassion, 00:07:22.160 --> 00:07:24.480 align:center forcing a general to exhaust himself in rescue missions, 00:07:24.480 --> 00:07:27.040 align:center or worse, using his loved ones as shields on the battlefield 00:07:27.040 --> 00:07:31.200 align:center to break his resolve without a fight. 00:07:31.200 --> 00:07:35.960 align:center In ruthlessness, I am no match for Dou Shishu. 00:07:35.960 --> 00:07:38.360 align:center But I refuse to be anyone's shield. 00:07:38.360 --> 00:07:42.800 align:center I am a person, not a tool for coercion. 00:07:42.800 --> 00:07:46.200 align:center I won't repeat Mother's fate or the path of the Duke of Ding. 00:07:47.160 --> 00:07:50.600 align:center What they couldn't fight for, we will. 00:07:52.680 --> 00:07:54.840 align:center Agreed. 00:07:54.840 --> 00:07:58.760 align:center From now on, I'll dye your hair every month, 00:07:58.760 --> 00:08:03.440 align:center so you won't turn into an old man with white hair. 00:08:04.120 --> 00:08:06.000 align:center It's a deal. 00:08:15.640 --> 00:08:17.360 align:center Madam, you've always been so creative. 00:08:17.360 --> 00:08:20.040 align:center This new design is beautiful. 00:08:21.200 --> 00:08:24.000 align:center Madam! 00:08:24.000 --> 00:08:27.000 align:center We have a problem, Madam! 00:08:27.000 --> 00:08:31.800 align:center Princess Shude just sent a message, saying she's in urgent need of help! 00:08:31.800 --> 00:08:33.880 align:center What's going on? 00:08:34.760 --> 00:08:36.720 align:center They're missing one for Mahjong. 00:08:45.720 --> 00:08:48.640 align:center [Palace of Tranquil Longevity] 00:08:54.680 --> 00:08:58.840 align:center Dou Zhao, if Her Majesty hadn't reminded me, 00:08:58.840 --> 00:09:02.960 align:center I would've almost forgotten my best Mahjong partner. 00:09:02.960 --> 00:09:05.240 align:center This is the empress, 00:09:06.240 --> 00:09:08.200 align:center and this is the crown princess. 00:09:09.480 --> 00:09:13.520 align:center Greetings, Your Majesty. Your Highness. 00:09:14.160 --> 00:09:17.120 align:center I've heard much about your talents for wealth. 00:09:17.120 --> 00:09:19.800 align:center Truly, you are a role model for women. 00:09:19.800 --> 00:09:22.640 align:center - You flatter me, Your Majesty. - You've arrived just in time. 00:09:22.640 --> 00:09:25.200 align:center We were short one player. 00:09:25.200 --> 00:09:27.600 align:center Let's get started. 00:09:27.600 --> 00:09:29.520 align:center Bring it in. 00:09:31.920 --> 00:09:37.040 align:center I must ask Your Majesty and Your Highnesses to forgive me if I appear clumsy at this. 00:09:39.000 --> 00:09:41.360 align:center Nine. 00:09:41.360 --> 00:09:43.760 align:center I wonder how my luck will hold today. 00:09:43.760 --> 00:09:46.000 align:center Luck? There's no such thing in Mahjong. 00:09:46.000 --> 00:09:49.120 align:center Skill matters more than luck. 00:09:49.120 --> 00:09:53.880 align:center A good game depends on the player. 00:09:53.880 --> 00:09:59.080 align:center If you want to win, it depends on who you're playing with and how you play. 00:09:59.760 --> 00:10:01.240 align:center You're right, Mother. 00:10:01.240 --> 00:10:06.360 align:center Every game has its winners and losers. 00:10:06.360 --> 00:10:10.680 align:center Sometimes, though, the outcome isn't clear right away. 00:10:10.680 --> 00:10:12.520 align:center Three bamboos. 00:10:22.440 --> 00:10:24.720 align:center Mahjong! 00:10:24.720 --> 00:10:26.920 align:center Seven-dot wait. 00:10:27.600 --> 00:10:28.960 align:center I don't believe this. 00:10:28.960 --> 00:10:32.480 align:center Let's play eight more rounds. I have to see if your luck holds up. 00:10:32.480 --> 00:10:34.960 align:center It's just a lucky streak. 00:10:34.960 --> 00:10:38.560 align:center When it comes to real skill, no one beats Mother. 00:10:38.560 --> 00:10:40.120 align:center Eight rounds? 00:10:40.120 --> 00:10:45.440 align:center With a princess, an empress, and a crown princess? 00:10:45.440 --> 00:10:49.800 align:center This isn't Mahjong, it's my funeral. 00:10:54.720 --> 00:10:58.880 align:center Mahjong! That was exhilarating! 00:10:58.880 --> 00:11:02.760 align:center But Dou Zhao, your luck doesn't seem to be with you today. 00:11:03.400 --> 00:11:05.600 align:center You've lost to three of us. 00:11:05.600 --> 00:11:09.480 align:center Duchess, you're not letting us win, are you? 00:11:10.200 --> 00:11:12.000 align:center I've only just learned to play. 00:11:12.000 --> 00:11:14.840 align:center Please forgive me for not being good at this. 00:11:17.880 --> 00:11:22.800 align:center I heard that when the Duke of Ying went to Liaodong to help resettle the Jiang family, 00:11:22.800 --> 00:11:27.240 align:center he and Prince Qing bonded instantly, 00:11:27.240 --> 00:11:29.680 align:center finding much in common. 00:11:31.600 --> 00:11:34.160 align:center Yantang did approach His Highness for assistance 00:11:34.160 --> 00:11:37.400 align:center to ensure that the elderly and ailing in the family could receive medical care, 00:11:37.400 --> 00:11:41.120 align:center and that leaky homes could be repaired. 00:11:41.120 --> 00:11:45.080 align:center Perfectly understandable. Loyalty and filial piety go hand in hand. 00:11:45.080 --> 00:11:47.960 align:center Without filial piety, where does loyalty come from? 00:11:47.960 --> 00:11:51.120 align:center Prince Qing grew up under my care until he was twelve, 00:11:51.120 --> 00:11:55.120 align:center then was sent to a barren fiefdom without the benefit of scholarly guidance. 00:11:55.120 --> 00:11:58.440 align:center Yet, he has still earned the respect of court officials, 00:11:58.440 --> 00:12:03.760 align:center thanks to his reputation for loyalty and courage in serving the country. 00:12:09.280 --> 00:12:12.160 align:center Five dots. Mahjong! 00:12:14.080 --> 00:12:18.400 align:center Duchess, you are indeed clever. Your game is most impressive. 00:12:26.800 --> 00:12:29.760 align:center Madam, wasn't it just a game of Mahjong? Why do you look so exhausted? 00:12:29.760 --> 00:12:32.320 align:center We've been playing since the afternoon. 00:12:32.320 --> 00:12:35.680 align:center I never imagined people could have such stamina for a game. 00:12:35.680 --> 00:12:39.000 align:center That wasn't just any game, it was a battlefield. 00:12:39.000 --> 00:12:40.840 align:center So, who won the most? 00:12:40.840 --> 00:12:44.320 align:center Judging by the results, it was undoubtedly Her Majesty. 00:12:45.000 --> 00:12:49.000 align:center Duchess, Her Majesty has requested your presence. 00:12:49.000 --> 00:12:52.280 align:center Please proceed to Kunning Palace. 00:13:00.160 --> 00:13:03.200 align:center It's an honor to be summoned by Her Majesty. Please lead the way. 00:13:03.200 --> 00:13:04.880 align:center Please come. 00:13:12.320 --> 00:13:14.000 align:center Your Majesty, the Duchess of Ying is here. 00:13:14.000 --> 00:13:16.120 align:center - Your Majesty. - Ah, finally, someone to give me advice. 00:13:16.120 --> 00:13:18.640 align:center Come, take a look at these papers. 00:13:18.640 --> 00:13:20.720 align:center His Majesty is enforcing a frugality campaign 00:13:20.720 --> 00:13:24.600 align:center cutting back on everything from clothing allowances to paper usage. 00:13:24.600 --> 00:13:26.520 align:center Give me some advice. 00:13:39.120 --> 00:13:41.520 align:center The palace uses over nine million sheets of paper annually, 00:13:41.520 --> 00:13:44.480 align:center half of which is used for bookmaking and record keeping. 00:13:44.480 --> 00:13:46.400 align:center While bamboo and hemp paper are cheaper, 00:13:46.400 --> 00:13:48.840 align:center they're prone to pest damage and don't last long. 00:13:48.840 --> 00:13:51.080 align:center I recommend switching to straw paper. 00:13:51.080 --> 00:13:54.840 align:center If it's produced locally near the capital with simplified methods, 00:13:54.840 --> 00:13:57.440 align:center costs can be reduced by 40%. 00:13:57.440 --> 00:14:01.440 align:center Additionally, recycling used paper could save even more. 00:14:01.440 --> 00:14:06.120 align:center You really know your craft. You've saved me a lot of trouble. 00:14:06.120 --> 00:14:08.200 align:center You flatter me, Your Majesty. 00:14:08.200 --> 00:14:11.640 align:center You're a woman of exceptional intellect and business acumen, 00:14:11.640 --> 00:14:14.920 align:center and your husband is a brave and stalwart pillar of the nation. 00:14:14.920 --> 00:14:18.920 align:center If he were to train troops in Liaodong, he could secure peace and protect the nation. 00:14:19.680 --> 00:14:22.120 align:center Though his health is a concern. 00:14:22.120 --> 00:14:24.480 align:center Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. 00:14:24.480 --> 00:14:27.560 align:center The rare Snow Mushroom from Liaodong, said to grow only once every 300 years, 00:14:27.560 --> 00:14:30.200 align:center is believed to heal wounds and revive the gravely ill. 00:14:30.200 --> 00:14:34.400 align:center This Snow Essence Pill contains a fraction of its essence. 00:14:35.240 --> 00:14:38.440 align:center With your knowledge of medicine, 00:14:38.440 --> 00:14:42.560 align:center perhaps you could try it and see if its claims are truly miraculous. 00:14:42.560 --> 00:14:46.520 align:center Lord Shi once tried gifting this very remedy to the duke, 00:14:46.520 --> 00:14:51.360 align:center but the duke didn't even glance at it. He threw Lord Shi out on the spot. 00:14:51.360 --> 00:14:53.440 align:center A husband and wife may share one mind, 00:14:53.440 --> 00:14:59.040 align:center but are you really willing to put his life at risk, Your Grace? 00:15:03.000 --> 00:15:06.720 align:center Your niece is a clever and capable woman. 00:15:06.720 --> 00:15:10.080 align:center I'd like to help her if I could. 00:15:10.080 --> 00:15:11.880 align:center She's certainly capable, 00:15:11.880 --> 00:15:14.480 align:center so capable that she dragged someone who never meddled in court affairs 00:15:14.480 --> 00:15:16.560 align:center into these murky waters. 00:15:16.560 --> 00:15:20.560 align:center You're the one who dragged me into it. 00:15:21.360 --> 00:15:24.880 align:center The entire court knows it was my recommendation that elevated you. 00:15:24.880 --> 00:15:28.600 align:center By aiding Prince Qing, you've made itappear to my brother and the court 00:15:28.600 --> 00:15:33.320 align:center that I, too, support his ambitions to seize the throne. 00:15:36.080 --> 00:15:41.160 align:center I'm a member of the royal family, and you should know where my boundaries lie. 00:15:41.160 --> 00:15:45.000 align:center Whatever you've done, stop it now. 00:15:45.840 --> 00:15:49.560 align:center - It's too late to stop. - You're even disobeying me now? 00:15:50.440 --> 00:15:53.200 align:center - Please calm down, Your Highness. - I didn't tell you to kneel! Get up! 00:15:53.200 --> 00:15:55.400 align:center As your subject, I have no reason not to kneel. 00:15:55.400 --> 00:15:57.200 align:center Life is like swimming against a fierce current. 00:15:57.200 --> 00:16:03.080 align:center You must abandon all that's unnecessary to fight your way upstream. 00:16:03.080 --> 00:16:06.200 align:center You taught me that all those years ago. 00:16:07.320 --> 00:16:10.400 align:center When did I ever teach you that? 00:16:11.280 --> 00:16:16.320 align:center Back when I was serving as a county assistant in Dengzhou, my origins were humble, 00:16:16.320 --> 00:16:18.240 align:center and I had no prestigious mentors to back me. 00:16:18.240 --> 00:16:22.320 align:center For years, I lived like a shadow of a man, 00:16:22.320 --> 00:16:26.000 align:center nothing more than a stepping stone in the eyes of others. 00:16:26.000 --> 00:16:29.840 align:center The accomplishments I worked tirelessly for became their promotions to magistrate, 00:16:29.840 --> 00:16:32.680 align:center to positions in the capital. 00:16:32.680 --> 00:16:34.920 align:center And I remained that stepping stone. 00:16:34.920 --> 00:16:39.440 align:center So, I thought of resigning to retake the imperial exams, 00:16:40.080 --> 00:16:42.840 align:center but even that was denied. 00:16:44.560 --> 00:16:49.720 align:center At that time, I had just lost my elderly husband. 00:16:50.320 --> 00:16:53.560 align:center I secluded myself in the temple, performing rites and praying. 00:16:53.560 --> 00:16:56.920 align:center You wrote me a piece of ceremonial prose, 00:16:57.720 --> 00:17:01.600 align:center and I repaid you with a ladder to ascend. 00:17:01.600 --> 00:17:04.920 align:center Now you're the Second Assistant Grand Secretary. 00:17:06.200 --> 00:17:08.480 align:center Isn't that enough? 00:17:10.040 --> 00:17:12.920 align:center The ceremonial prose you wrote for me was excellent. 00:17:13.880 --> 00:17:16.040 align:center I should do something in return for you. 00:17:16.040 --> 00:17:18.520 align:center I just wish to resign and retake the imperial exams, 00:17:18.520 --> 00:17:23.960 align:center so I can earn a higher rank, and be assigned to a place where I can really make a difference. 00:17:23.960 --> 00:17:26.320 align:center There's no such place. 00:17:27.280 --> 00:17:30.760 align:center I've written you a letter of recommendation to the Ministry of Personnel. 00:17:30.760 --> 00:17:35.240 align:center You'll be the magistrate of Haiyan County next month. 00:17:35.240 --> 00:17:36.680 align:center But I want to achieve this on my own. 00:17:36.680 --> 00:17:39.880 align:center Taking a shortcut is nothing to be ashamed of. 00:17:39.880 --> 00:17:45.680 align:center Dignity and ideals, they're luxuries you can't afford right now. 00:17:45.680 --> 00:17:48.840 align:center I've abandoned so much, 00:17:48.840 --> 00:17:52.000 align:center endured people calling me a sycophant, shamelessly climbing my way up. 00:17:52.000 --> 00:17:54.240 align:center But I don't care. 00:17:54.240 --> 00:17:59.600 align:center I just want to see how high the shortcuts I took, sacrificing my dignity and ideals, 00:17:59.600 --> 00:18:03.640 align:center can carry me. How high I'm meant to go! 00:18:03.640 --> 00:18:08.240 align:center Our Dou family might have started as peddlers, 00:18:08.240 --> 00:18:13.200 align:center but through me, we'll stand tall as an unshakable noble house. 00:18:13.200 --> 00:18:15.240 align:center Shishu, 00:18:15.240 --> 00:18:20.320 align:center I traded my happiness in marriage to secure wealth and freedom, 00:18:20.320 --> 00:18:23.080 align:center but I've never harmed anyone in the process. 00:18:23.080 --> 00:18:26.560 align:center The road you're taking is far too dangerous. 00:18:26.560 --> 00:18:30.960 align:center You'll ruin yourself, and me along with you. 00:18:35.480 --> 00:18:39.400 align:center Your Highness, I will help you. 00:18:39.400 --> 00:18:44.240 align:center One day, everything you desire, 00:18:44.240 --> 00:18:46.880 align:center I will make sure it's yours. 00:18:57.440 --> 00:18:59.560 align:center You're back. 00:18:59.560 --> 00:19:02.120 align:center Where did this Snow Essence Pill come from? 00:19:02.840 --> 00:19:05.040 align:center I took it from the empress. 00:19:09.000 --> 00:19:12.080 align:center She thinks this so-called cure will coax me into bowing to her will, 00:19:12.080 --> 00:19:15.480 align:center but you know full well I'll never compromise my integrity for the sake of survival. 00:19:15.480 --> 00:19:19.680 align:center I know you want justice and vengeance, 00:19:19.680 --> 00:19:22.920 align:center but Mr. Chen has searched far and wide for Snow Mushroom without success. 00:19:22.920 --> 00:19:26.880 align:center Now that this pill is right here in front of us, shouldn't we at least try it? 00:19:26.880 --> 00:19:29.320 align:center The empress and Prince Qing are counting on this. 00:19:29.320 --> 00:19:32.480 align:center If this pill actually works and gives me hope for a longer life, 00:19:32.480 --> 00:19:35.320 align:center you won't bear to lose me, and I won't want to leave you. 00:19:35.320 --> 00:19:37.480 align:center By then, we'd crave a second pill, a third pill. 00:19:37.480 --> 00:19:39.840 align:center Whatever she demands, 00:19:39.840 --> 00:19:42.800 align:center We'll deal with the future when it comes. 00:19:42.800 --> 00:19:46.120 align:center As long as there's even the slightest hope, I want you to live. 00:19:46.120 --> 00:19:48.360 align:center Then we'll be playing right into the empress's hands. 00:19:48.360 --> 00:19:51.360 align:center This is her way of pulling us into Prince Qing's camp. 00:19:51.360 --> 00:19:54.320 align:center I know the empress has ulterior motives, 00:19:54.320 --> 00:19:59.720 align:center but don't worry, I stole this pill. 00:19:59.720 --> 00:20:01.520 align:center You stole it? 00:20:02.400 --> 00:20:06.640 align:center I found out that Prince Qing was sending a shipment of treasures to the empress today, 00:20:06.640 --> 00:20:09.240 align:center including the Snow Essence Pill. 00:20:11.240 --> 00:20:12.880 align:center Beat them up! 00:20:12.880 --> 00:20:15.480 align:center Take all the treasures with us! 00:20:15.480 --> 00:20:17.440 align:center Come on, let's go! 00:20:19.920 --> 00:20:25.200 align:center I have no intention of siding with Prince Qing, but I want my husband to stay alive. 00:20:25.200 --> 00:20:26.640 align:center I'm sorry, Shougu. 00:20:26.640 --> 00:20:29.000 align:center I misunderstood you. 00:20:29.840 --> 00:20:35.360 align:center In the past, I was so consumed by seeking truth and revenge that I'd risk everything. 00:20:35.360 --> 00:20:39.680 align:center But now that you've given me a home, I'm no longer just living for myself. 00:20:41.600 --> 00:20:46.320 align:center I promise you, even if I face impossible choices in the future, 00:20:46.320 --> 00:20:48.840 align:center my priority will be protecting our home. 00:20:52.640 --> 00:20:54.680 align:center I'll take the pill now. 00:21:00.960 --> 00:21:03.680 align:center He had already sided with Prince Qing by then. 00:21:03.680 --> 00:21:05.480 align:center He must've taken the pill then, 00:21:05.480 --> 00:21:09.480 align:center yet he still had white hair and signs of poisoning. 00:21:10.600 --> 00:21:12.400 align:center Wait. 00:21:13.240 --> 00:21:16.160 align:center - Su Lan. - Yes, Your Grace. 00:21:16.160 --> 00:21:18.760 align:center Bring me a bowl of warm water and fetch my medicine box. 00:21:18.760 --> 00:21:20.560 align:center Yes, Your Grace. 00:21:21.680 --> 00:21:25.960 align:center You think there's something wrong with this pill? 00:21:41.480 --> 00:21:43.880 align:center Poisoned blood turns purple-black. 00:21:43.880 --> 00:21:47.760 align:center If this really is an antidote, there should be some reaction. 00:21:51.360 --> 00:21:53.880 align:center Look! It's changing color. 00:21:53.880 --> 00:21:56.640 align:center That means it works. 00:22:02.480 --> 00:22:03.680 align:center Shougu! 00:22:03.680 --> 00:22:05.080 align:center Cousin! 00:22:05.080 --> 00:22:06.880 align:center Shougu! 00:22:07.680 --> 00:22:08.880 align:center You're back? 00:22:08.880 --> 00:22:10.480 align:center Weren't you in Diannan visiting Uncle? 00:22:10.480 --> 00:22:12.080 align:center What brings you back so soon? 00:22:12.080 --> 00:22:14.680 align:center Mid-Autumn Festival is coming up. I rushed back to celebrate. 00:22:14.680 --> 00:22:16.880 align:center Looks like you've been so busy you forgot. 00:22:16.880 --> 00:22:21.960 align:center You've never been this enthusiastic about any festival before. 00:22:23.880 --> 00:22:27.960 align:center Is there someone special to celebrate with this year? 00:22:27.960 --> 00:22:29.480 align:center No one. 00:22:29.480 --> 00:22:32.360 align:center The lantern festival is about to start. Why are you still here? 00:22:32.360 --> 00:22:34.960 align:center I'm going to check it out first. 00:22:38.160 --> 00:22:39.680 align:center Come on. 00:22:39.680 --> 00:22:41.480 align:center Let's go check it out. 00:22:46.560 --> 00:22:51.480 align:center The bandits dared to rob imperial stuff? 00:22:51.480 --> 00:22:54.560 align:center This is ridiculous. 00:22:54.560 --> 00:22:57.560 align:center They appear to be remnants of the Cangbei Gang. 00:22:57.560 --> 00:23:00.280 align:center The Cangbei Gang was wiped out. 00:23:00.280 --> 00:23:06.160 align:center Besides, how could it be a coincidence that the Snow Essence Pill was among the stolen items? 00:23:08.880 --> 00:23:10.880 align:center Could it be Dou Zhao? 00:23:10.880 --> 00:23:12.680 align:center It doesn't make sense. 00:23:12.680 --> 00:23:16.560 align:center She rejected it so determinedly before. 00:23:16.560 --> 00:23:22.480 align:center If she wouldn't take it when offered, why go to such lengths to steal it now? 00:23:22.480 --> 00:23:25.880 align:center Looks like these people were simply after wealth. 00:23:25.880 --> 00:23:28.680 align:center It can't be that simple. 00:23:30.480 --> 00:23:33.160 align:center Dou Zhao is meticulous and cunning. 00:23:33.160 --> 00:23:34.640 align:center She must be behind this. 00:23:34.640 --> 00:23:36.280 align:center Since she won't accept kindness, she'll respond to force. 00:23:36.280 --> 00:23:38.880 align:center Shall I have Dou Zhao brought in? 00:23:38.880 --> 00:23:40.680 align:center No. 00:23:40.680 --> 00:23:44.240 align:center Without evidence, we can't touch her. 00:23:45.560 --> 00:23:51.120 align:center Since she won't join us as an ally, she is an enemy then. 00:23:53.280 --> 00:23:54.760 align:center Lantern riddles! 00:23:54.760 --> 00:23:57.080 align:center Come try your luck, Young Lady. Two coins a turn. 00:23:57.080 --> 00:23:59.400 align:center Guess right, and you win a lantern. 00:24:08.280 --> 00:24:12.280 align:center At the year's end, fish and rice abound. 00:24:12.280 --> 00:24:17.280 align:center I recognize the words, but putting them together... 00:24:21.880 --> 00:24:24.280 align:center - The answer is "scale". - Scale? 00:24:24.280 --> 00:24:26.680 align:center Let me see. 00:24:26.680 --> 00:24:28.280 align:center You got it right! 00:24:28.280 --> 00:24:31.680 align:center Not only are you skilled in martial arts, but you're also really clever. 00:24:32.480 --> 00:24:34.480 align:center Here's your lantern. 00:24:34.480 --> 00:24:35.680 align:center It's so cute! 00:24:35.680 --> 00:24:37.280 align:center It's a little rabbit. 00:24:37.280 --> 00:24:39.080 align:center Adorable. 00:24:39.080 --> 00:24:41.080 align:center Look at it. 00:24:44.680 --> 00:24:46.880 align:center Do you like this lantern? 00:24:52.320 --> 00:24:54.120 align:center Yes. 00:24:59.080 --> 00:25:00.680 align:center Shougu... 00:25:12.080 --> 00:25:13.880 align:center What's wrong? 00:25:13.880 --> 00:25:15.480 align:center I feel like someone's following us. 00:25:15.480 --> 00:25:17.160 align:center Who? 00:25:24.560 --> 00:25:26.280 align:center Maybe I was just being paranoid. 00:25:26.280 --> 00:25:28.280 align:center Let's go then. 00:25:30.440 --> 00:25:31.800 align:center Why did you stop me? 00:25:31.800 --> 00:25:33.200 align:center No cheating. 00:25:33.200 --> 00:25:34.600 align:center We had a bet, remember? 00:25:34.600 --> 00:25:37.880 align:center If you interrupt them now, it counts as breaking the rules. 00:25:37.880 --> 00:25:40.840 align:center I wasn't planning to interrupt. 00:25:40.880 --> 00:25:43.080 align:center I just don't want to lose them. 00:25:43.080 --> 00:25:45.760 align:center Let's go. 00:25:51.880 --> 00:25:53.680 align:center Are you all right? 00:25:54.680 --> 00:25:56.480 align:center Yes. 00:26:00.000 --> 00:26:01.800 align:center Let me carry you. 00:26:06.880 --> 00:26:09.280 align:center This is so embarrassing. 00:26:10.680 --> 00:26:12.480 align:center Careful. 00:26:16.160 --> 00:26:18.680 align:center I'm going to fall off. 00:26:23.480 --> 00:26:25.880 align:center Let me guide you. 00:26:25.880 --> 00:26:30.280 align:center Let's see who's faster, you or my little rabbit lantern? 00:26:34.680 --> 00:26:36.760 align:center How did they disappear in the blink of an eye? 00:26:36.760 --> 00:26:38.680 align:center Let's look around. 00:26:46.680 --> 00:26:48.480 align:center Oh no, oh no! She definitely saw me! 00:26:48.480 --> 00:26:50.280 align:center It's so dark, she couldn't have seen you. 00:26:50.280 --> 00:26:52.280 align:center - Don't worry. - She definitely saw me! 00:26:52.280 --> 00:26:54.560 align:center We locked eyes just now. 00:26:55.080 --> 00:27:00.280 align:center It was just a short moment, she probably didn't see us. Right? 00:27:00.280 --> 00:27:01.960 align:center What's wrong? 00:27:03.200 --> 00:27:05.080 align:center Commander Chen? 00:27:06.480 --> 00:27:08.960 align:center Wait! No, we're not going that way. 00:27:08.960 --> 00:27:12.480 align:center We should turn around. We're going the wrong way. 00:27:12.480 --> 00:27:14.560 align:center No, this is the way. 00:27:30.080 --> 00:27:35.280 align:center Your Graces, Young Lady Zhao twisted her ankle. 00:27:36.080 --> 00:27:38.680 align:center I'll make sure she gets back to the residence safely. 00:27:38.680 --> 00:27:40.680 align:center Please don't worry. 00:27:44.080 --> 00:27:48.080 align:center Cousin, just take care. 00:27:48.080 --> 00:27:49.880 align:center Shougu... 00:27:59.360 --> 00:28:00.680 align:center Regardless of anything, 00:28:00.680 --> 00:28:03.680 align:center Chen Jia had the courage to step forward and explain himself. 00:28:03.680 --> 00:28:05.760 align:center That shows some responsibility. 00:28:07.760 --> 00:28:10.160 align:center So, are we done following them now? 00:28:10.160 --> 00:28:11.880 align:center Yes. 00:28:24.680 --> 00:28:29.280 align:center Then, can we finally enjoy the lantern festival together? 00:28:53.000 --> 00:28:54.800 align:center Second Young Master. 00:29:01.080 --> 00:29:02.760 align:center Young Lady Miao. 00:29:03.800 --> 00:29:06.720 align:center I brought you this lantern from the festival. 00:29:06.720 --> 00:29:11.000 align:center It's Mid-Autumn Festival today, but I didn't see you out there. 00:29:13.440 --> 00:29:15.120 align:center Mid-Autumn? 00:29:16.960 --> 00:29:20.680 align:center Who do I even have left in the world to celebrate with? 00:29:28.080 --> 00:29:31.600 align:center This is freshly made Dingsheng cakes, with a bit of peanut filling. 00:29:31.600 --> 00:29:34.240 align:center I saved some especially for you. 00:29:35.040 --> 00:29:40.320 align:center Eating these during Mid-Autumn symbolizes progress and peace. It's a lucky tradition. 00:29:42.200 --> 00:29:43.960 align:center Thank you, Young Lady Miao. 00:29:43.960 --> 00:29:50.000 align:center But the things you're talking about, none of that is possible for me anymore. 00:29:53.520 --> 00:29:58.480 align:center Young Master, one's path in life is forged step by step. 00:29:58.480 --> 00:30:01.680 align:center Back when my family faced hard times, 00:30:01.680 --> 00:30:04.600 align:center we gritted our teeth and bore through it together. 00:30:04.600 --> 00:30:07.320 align:center Even the toughest days eventually passed. 00:30:07.320 --> 00:30:09.800 align:center Things will get better, little by little. 00:30:13.520 --> 00:30:15.320 align:center Here, try one. 00:30:34.560 --> 00:30:36.240 align:center You're right. 00:30:36.240 --> 00:30:39.680 align:center The worst is behind me now. 00:30:39.680 --> 00:30:41.320 align:center Thank you, Young Lady Miao. 00:30:41.320 --> 00:30:43.760 align:center You always find a way to comfort me when I'm at my lowest, 00:30:43.760 --> 00:30:47.200 align:center and I don't know how to repay you. 00:30:48.320 --> 00:30:51.040 align:center When you handed me the cake, your hands were so cold. 00:30:51.040 --> 00:30:52.560 align:center Here. 00:30:56.560 --> 00:31:01.920 align:center If a few casual words can make you feel better, that makes me happy too. 00:31:01.920 --> 00:31:06.640 align:center It may seem like just a few kind words to you, 00:31:06.640 --> 00:31:10.680 align:center but to me, they're like warmth in the snow. 00:31:15.360 --> 00:31:17.880 align:center I can't keep hiding like this. 00:31:17.880 --> 00:31:25.280 align:center It's time I walk out of this house, stand tall, and carve my own path. 00:31:27.840 --> 00:31:34.200 align:center Look! In this silence, the moon seems even more beautiful. 00:31:34.200 --> 00:31:36.000 align:center It does. 00:31:37.240 --> 00:31:42.160 align:center I remember there's a poem about the moon and bamboo. 00:31:42.160 --> 00:31:43.840 align:center What was it again? 00:31:43.840 --> 00:31:47.560 align:center "What night has no moon? What place has no bamboo and cypress? 00:31:47.560 --> 00:31:51.560 align:center But few are as carefree as the two of us." Is that it? 00:31:51.560 --> 00:31:53.040 align:center Yes. 00:32:17.280 --> 00:32:20.080 align:center [The Water and Trees Are Bright and Clear] 00:32:39.320 --> 00:32:41.000 align:center Shougu? 00:32:43.840 --> 00:32:46.840 align:center Shougu, why are you crying? 00:32:51.800 --> 00:32:57.040 align:center This antidote only suppresses the poison temporarily. 00:32:57.040 --> 00:33:01.240 align:center It doesn't cure it, it just buys you some time. 00:33:05.040 --> 00:33:06.600 align:center It's all right. 00:33:06.600 --> 00:33:09.240 align:center Look at me. I'm fine, aren't I? 00:33:09.240 --> 00:33:13.240 align:center Besides, maybe the poison will never flare up again. 00:33:14.200 --> 00:33:16.040 align:center We'll figure something out. 00:33:16.760 --> 00:33:18.600 align:center Don't cry anymore, all right? 00:33:24.200 --> 00:33:25.920 align:center [Liaodong] 00:33:36.120 --> 00:33:38.920 align:center Your Highness, your arrows never miss their mark, each shot is flawless. 00:33:38.920 --> 00:33:42.160 align:center Your skill with the bow is unmatched. 00:33:43.040 --> 00:33:45.400 align:center You brothers are quite the pair. 00:33:45.400 --> 00:33:48.720 align:center One goes out of his way to reject my goodwill, 00:33:48.720 --> 00:33:54.400 align:center while the other travels miles just to flatter me. 00:33:55.600 --> 00:34:02.720 align:center My brother and father may have let you down, but I'm not like them. 00:34:03.400 --> 00:34:06.040 align:center I have no use for incompetents. 00:34:08.560 --> 00:34:13.200 align:center Nor do I care for disloyal men. 00:34:16.320 --> 00:34:23.280 align:center I didn't have a choice in the past, but now, I want to make one for myself. 00:34:23.280 --> 00:34:26.120 align:center I refuse to spend my life beneath others. 00:34:26.120 --> 00:34:27.880 align:center All I need is one opportunity, 00:34:27.880 --> 00:34:32.320 align:center and the loyalty I repay you with will rival anything my brother could offer. 00:34:33.960 --> 00:34:35.760 align:center I'm listening. 00:34:37.080 --> 00:34:41.480 align:center Just now, you released your arrow before the target even fully emerged. 00:34:41.480 --> 00:34:44.720 align:center It's clear you've practiced extensively with that particular target 00:34:44.720 --> 00:34:47.440 align:center and know its trajectory inside out. 00:34:47.440 --> 00:34:51.360 align:center But on the battlefield, things are unpredictable. 00:34:51.360 --> 00:34:57.360 align:center If you had a sparring partner to simulate such unpredictability, 00:34:57.360 --> 00:35:01.080 align:center you could truly achieve unfailing precision. 00:35:02.560 --> 00:35:07.560 align:center And if I were to miss, the gossip would not be flattering. 00:35:09.120 --> 00:35:15.720 align:center If your arrow is aimed at Song Mo, with me by your side, you won't miss. 00:35:15.720 --> 00:35:18.320 align:center Compared to a mere servant, you need someone with status 00:35:18.320 --> 00:35:21.800 align:center to navigate the circles of young nobles and officials on your behalf. 00:35:21.800 --> 00:35:23.040 align:center Someone who understands military strategy 00:35:23.040 --> 00:35:25.640 align:center to uncover schemes in the court and adapt to shifting dynamics. 00:35:25.640 --> 00:35:28.720 align:center And someone skilled in combat to ensure that the capital's defenses 00:35:28.720 --> 00:35:31.560 align:center don't fall entirely into Song Mo's hands. 00:35:40.240 --> 00:35:48.960 align:center By your logic, it sounds like I need you more than you need me. 00:35:51.640 --> 00:35:56.800 align:center If you examine lineage, martial skill, or strategy individually, 00:35:56.800 --> 00:35:58.480 align:center I might not be your best choice. 00:35:58.480 --> 00:36:03.760 align:center But I embody all three, coupled with the resolve to fight my way out of any dead end. 00:36:05.680 --> 00:36:08.320 align:center Warfare thrives on deception, 00:36:08.320 --> 00:36:12.240 align:center and I was born to be the unpredictable piece Song Mo can never counter. 00:36:12.240 --> 00:36:18.040 align:center Only I can silently stir the winds and reshape the tides for you. 00:36:29.120 --> 00:36:31.720 align:center The officials are soon to petition my father 00:36:31.720 --> 00:36:35.360 align:center to open an imperial examination to recruit fresh talent. 00:36:35.360 --> 00:36:41.640 align:center If you can prove yourself in the imperial exams, I will make good use of you. 00:36:42.520 --> 00:36:44.640 align:center Thank you, Your Highness. 00:36:52.800 --> 00:36:54.600 align:center Teacher. 00:36:56.080 --> 00:36:59.600 align:center Song Han's every word and move was just as you predicted. 00:36:59.600 --> 00:37:01.480 align:center Your foresight is unparalleled. 00:37:01.480 --> 00:37:03.440 align:center It's just a plan of setting a tiger against a wolf. 00:37:03.440 --> 00:37:05.080 align:center Song Han is at the edge of desperation. 00:37:05.080 --> 00:37:08.840 align:center If he cannot rise to become a fierce wolf, his suspicious and calculating nature 00:37:08.840 --> 00:37:11.920 align:center will trap him in a constant state of fear and guilt. 00:37:11.920 --> 00:37:15.280 align:center At that point, he will find life unbearable. 00:37:16.720 --> 00:37:20.360 align:center Song Han's predicament mirrors my own. 00:37:20.360 --> 00:37:26.000 align:center No matter how capable he is, Song Mo will never allow him to shine. 00:37:26.000 --> 00:37:29.320 align:center As an illegitimate son with neither title nor standing, 00:37:29.320 --> 00:37:36.480 align:center his only chance for legitimacy lies in supporting my ascent to the throne. 00:37:36.480 --> 00:37:39.320 align:center Teacher, your vision is far-reaching. 00:37:44.440 --> 00:37:46.720 align:center A small token of appreciation. 00:38:01.520 --> 00:38:04.640 align:center Just watching them move all this over is exhausting. 00:38:04.640 --> 00:38:07.240 align:center What do I need all these treasures for? 00:38:09.560 --> 00:38:10.680 align:center Forget it. 00:38:10.680 --> 00:38:12.480 align:center Where are you going? 00:38:12.480 --> 00:38:15.080 align:center Back to the capital. 00:38:15.080 --> 00:38:18.600 align:center With Her Majesty's recognition, and your eagerness to learn, 00:38:18.600 --> 00:38:20.520 align:center I had intended to help you achieve great things. 00:38:20.520 --> 00:38:21.680 align:center But you? 00:38:21.680 --> 00:38:25.240 align:center Lavishing gold, flattering words, and not a shred of honesty. 00:38:25.240 --> 00:38:27.200 align:center Why should I waste my time? 00:38:27.200 --> 00:38:30.440 align:center If you want to silence me, feel free to send someone after me. 00:38:30.440 --> 00:38:32.240 align:center Teacher, wait! 00:38:38.520 --> 00:38:41.600 align:center My sincerity is evident for all to see. 00:38:42.600 --> 00:38:45.000 align:center Sincerity? 00:38:45.000 --> 00:38:48.880 align:center Yet you wouldn't tell me how the Duke of Ding met his end. 00:38:50.440 --> 00:38:52.320 align:center A paranoid master like you 00:38:52.320 --> 00:38:56.000 align:center will only wreck the carefully laid plans I've worked so hard to craft. 00:38:56.000 --> 00:38:57.720 align:center Your rebuke is right. 00:38:57.720 --> 00:39:02.200 align:center I promise I'll tell you the entire truth of the Duke of Ding's demise. 00:39:02.200 --> 00:39:06.840 align:center When we achieve success, you shall be my foremost Grand Secretary. 00:39:08.080 --> 00:39:12.600 align:center Let me guess. You promised Dou Shishu the same thing, didn't you? 00:39:13.880 --> 00:39:17.680 align:center You and Dou Shishu are both indispensable to me. 00:39:17.680 --> 00:39:21.120 align:center But Dou Shishu has offered the horse market as a gesture of loyalty, 00:39:21.120 --> 00:39:23.760 align:center even at the expense of his niece. 00:39:23.760 --> 00:39:28.160 align:center Yet you have yet to help me bring Song Mo into my fold. 00:39:29.440 --> 00:39:33.640 align:center Song Mo? He's His Majesty's trusted subject. 00:39:33.640 --> 00:39:37.760 align:center Recruiting him would be openly opposing His Majesty. 00:39:37.760 --> 00:39:40.400 align:center Do you think any sovereign would tolerate that? 00:39:40.400 --> 00:39:42.520 align:center And what would you do then? 00:39:42.520 --> 00:39:45.840 align:center Launch a rebellion from distant Liaodong? 00:39:45.840 --> 00:39:47.160 align:center Are you really prepared for such a move? 00:39:47.160 --> 00:39:50.240 align:center But if we don't eliminate him, he'll remain a constant threat. 00:39:50.240 --> 00:39:54.320 align:center The Imperial Guard is the palace's defense, it cannot fall into his hands. 00:39:54.320 --> 00:39:56.160 align:center Precisely why... 00:39:57.520 --> 00:40:01.360 align:center I advised you to recruit Song Han. 00:40:01.360 --> 00:40:04.760 align:center What cannot be dealt with in the court can be resolved within the family. 00:40:04.760 --> 00:40:07.520 align:center For the sake of a title, he'll turn against his brother. 00:40:07.520 --> 00:40:10.360 align:center Then it simply becomes a Song family affair. 00:40:10.360 --> 00:40:14.880 align:center No matter how it plays out, it works to your advantage. 00:40:17.640 --> 00:40:19.640 align:center Understood. 00:40:19.640 --> 00:40:22.440 align:center This ice cream is so good. 00:40:31.760 --> 00:40:35.080 align:center [Lu Ji Dentistry] 00:40:42.200 --> 00:40:45.840 align:center Song Han is an illegitimate love child, how is he worthy of joining us? 00:40:45.840 --> 00:40:48.440 align:center Our master believes he's a rare asset. 00:40:48.440 --> 00:40:53.760 align:center If used well, he might even alter the course of the game. 00:40:53.760 --> 00:40:58.080 align:center Lowly in status but ambitious to the core. 00:40:58.080 --> 00:41:04.000 align:center Such a person will gladly serve as pawns for the promise of power. 00:41:09.120 --> 00:41:11.000 align:center I lost. 00:41:12.600 --> 00:41:17.280 align:center Minister Mu, I suppose you only let me win because you have a favor to ask of me? 00:41:17.280 --> 00:41:19.120 align:center I'll be honest with you. 00:41:19.120 --> 00:41:22.080 align:center My son isn't cut out for the literary exams, 00:41:22.080 --> 00:41:27.000 align:center but when it comes to the martial exams, my family could really use some help. 00:41:27.000 --> 00:41:29.440 align:center The court is desperate for capable generals. 00:41:29.440 --> 00:41:32.840 align:center His Majesty places great importance on this examination. 00:41:32.840 --> 00:41:38.000 align:center Our master asked me to oversee the exams, which means he has a preferred candidate. 00:41:38.000 --> 00:41:40.920 align:center I'm afraid I'll have to let you down. 00:41:43.560 --> 00:41:46.160 align:center One should not overstep their station, of course. 00:41:46.160 --> 00:41:53.560 align:center But the way things proceed in the examination hall hinges on your discretion, does it not? 00:41:55.080 --> 00:41:58.360 align:center The literary portion of the exam can be adjusted, 00:41:58.360 --> 00:42:02.240 align:center but the martial examination requires real skills. 00:42:02.240 --> 00:42:05.640 align:center Rest assured, sir. He just needs to pass the literary portion. 00:42:05.640 --> 00:42:11.760 align:center My son may lack in other areas, but when it comes to martial arts, he's pretty good at it. 00:42:33.720 --> 00:42:35.800 align:center I'm earning my place and title through my own efforts. 00:42:35.800 --> 00:42:37.120 align:center Why are you trying to stop me? 00:42:37.120 --> 00:42:39.600 align:center You might as well just kill me in front of His Majesty. 00:42:39.600 --> 00:42:41.680 align:center Mantis Song is now a target for everyone. 00:42:41.680 --> 00:42:45.480 align:center For your own sake and for the Dou family, you can't take risks with him. 00:42:45.480 --> 00:42:47.560 align:center Leave him.