WEBVTT 00:00:25.280 --> 00:00:28.760 align:center Those who passed the literary exam may now enter. 00:00:28.760 --> 00:00:31.360 align:center [The Sounds of Bell Tolls and Cauldrons Being Struck] (Idiom which means the extravagant life of nobles and high officials) 00:00:33.760 --> 00:00:37.240 align:center In the literary exam, Second Young Master Song barely came out ahead, 00:00:37.240 --> 00:00:39.400 align:center while Young Master Mu just muddled through. 00:00:39.400 --> 00:00:43.280 align:center Who knows what strings Minister Mu pulled to get him to pass? 00:00:43.920 --> 00:00:47.600 align:center The imperial examination is the only chance for commoners to rise in rank. 00:00:47.600 --> 00:00:51.720 align:center If even this fairness is lost, how could the people not be disheartened? 00:00:54.200 --> 00:00:55.440 align:center Bow before His Majesty. 00:00:55.440 --> 00:00:58.400 align:center - Greetings, Your Majesty. - Greetings, Your Majesty. 00:00:58.400 --> 00:01:00.560 align:center Rise. 00:01:04.200 --> 00:01:07.480 align:center Let the martial arts examination begin! 00:01:14.320 --> 00:01:17.080 align:center Awesome! Yes! 00:01:40.360 --> 00:01:45.560 align:center Recruiting such a talent as our own would be like gaining an unbeatable chess piece, 00:01:45.560 --> 00:01:48.440 align:center an immense advantage for our cause. 00:01:52.040 --> 00:01:55.280 align:center My son is also quite good at martial arts. 00:01:55.280 --> 00:01:59.640 align:center As for his true capabilities, let's just wait and see. 00:02:37.720 --> 00:02:39.240 align:center Carry the young master out of here! 00:02:39.240 --> 00:02:41.040 align:center Yes, sir! 00:02:43.800 --> 00:02:46.400 align:center The martial exam values precision and restraint. 00:02:46.400 --> 00:02:51.360 align:center Such a reckless pursuit of victory has revealed his true intentions for all to see. 00:03:06.520 --> 00:03:08.560 align:center I never expected the Song family to produce 00:03:08.560 --> 00:03:11.640 align:center not only Song Yantang, who consistentlyranked first in the imperial hunt, 00:03:11.640 --> 00:03:14.320 align:center but also a talent like you, proficient in both academics and martial arts, 00:03:14.320 --> 00:03:19.120 align:center scoring perfectly in every category, and with exceptional insights in your policy essay. 00:03:19.120 --> 00:03:22.840 align:center Top scorer Song Han, is there anything you wish for? 00:03:29.960 --> 00:03:35.680 align:center Your Majesty, my martial skills were taught by my brother, 00:03:35.680 --> 00:03:39.280 align:center but compared to him, I still have much to improve. 00:03:39.280 --> 00:03:44.560 align:center Today, I humbly request a chance to spar with him, and test our abilities against each other. 00:03:44.560 --> 00:03:47.400 align:center Please grant me that wish. 00:03:48.080 --> 00:03:51.240 align:center Your Majesty, Song Han's request is far too audacious. 00:03:51.240 --> 00:03:52.600 align:center The martial arts exam is over. 00:03:52.600 --> 00:03:58.120 align:center Even as the top scorer, he should not make such personal demands. 00:03:58.120 --> 00:04:00.640 align:center This is not your family's backyard! 00:04:00.640 --> 00:04:02.120 align:center Your Majesty. 00:04:02.120 --> 00:04:04.360 align:center Madam reminded me that your current health condition 00:04:04.360 --> 00:04:05.920 align:center does not permit you to overexert yourself. 00:04:05.920 --> 00:04:08.880 align:center - Yes, - Let's turn the duel down. 00:04:08.880 --> 00:04:10.600 align:center That's right. 00:04:11.160 --> 00:04:14.480 align:center I know my limits. Don't worry. 00:04:20.960 --> 00:04:23.600 align:center Your Majesty, Song Han is young and impulsive. 00:04:23.600 --> 00:04:28.080 align:center If he has spoken out of turn in your presence, I beg for your forgiveness. 00:04:28.080 --> 00:04:29.360 align:center It's fine. 00:04:29.360 --> 00:04:30.960 align:center Since he is the top scorer in the martial arts exam, 00:04:30.960 --> 00:04:34.320 align:center I am curious to see his skills. 00:04:34.320 --> 00:04:36.800 align:center Yantang, you shall personally test him. 00:04:36.800 --> 00:04:39.520 align:center Yes, Your Majesty. 00:05:11.280 --> 00:05:13.320 align:center You have the duration of one incense stick. 00:05:13.320 --> 00:05:16.320 align:center The one who captures the flag wins. 00:05:19.520 --> 00:05:22.680 align:center Let's use blades, Brother. 00:05:24.000 --> 00:05:25.720 align:center Sure. 00:06:09.360 --> 00:06:11.280 align:center If you can't defeat me today, 00:06:11.280 --> 00:06:15.000 align:center all of Minister Dou's efforts will have been in vain. 00:06:41.040 --> 00:06:44.440 align:center I want to earn my rank and title through my own abilities, 00:06:44.440 --> 00:06:46.440 align:center and yet you want to stand in my way. 00:06:46.440 --> 00:06:50.600 align:center You might as well just kill me in front of His Majesty then. 00:07:05.920 --> 00:07:09.120 align:center You've taught me this Sun and Moon Reversal move many times. 00:07:09.120 --> 00:07:13.040 align:center At last, I've put it to proper use. 00:07:13.040 --> 00:07:16.680 align:center Looks like you've learned more than just swordplay. 00:07:17.360 --> 00:07:22.600 align:center It is rare for someone to turn defeat into a draw against Yantang. 00:07:23.560 --> 00:07:24.680 align:center Proclaim my decree! 00:07:24.680 --> 00:07:27.960 align:center Song Han of the Duke of Ying's household, courageous and strategic, 00:07:27.960 --> 00:07:31.000 align:center is hereby declared the top scorer of the martial arts examination. 00:07:31.000 --> 00:07:36.120 align:center He is appointed to the position of Tengxiang Guard, and awarded the Pine Crane Sword. 00:07:36.120 --> 00:07:39.960 align:center I humbly dare to request one more favor. 00:07:46.720 --> 00:07:48.800 align:center Speak your request. 00:07:48.800 --> 00:07:52.760 align:center Both my parents have passed,< 00:07:52.760 --> 00:07:56.960 align:center leaving me alone and desolate in my youth. 00:07:58.200 --> 00:08:02.720 align:center I humbly request your favor in bestowing a marriage, 00:08:02.720 --> 00:08:07.520 align:center allowing me to wed a princess, and form a harmonious union for life. 00:08:12.600 --> 00:08:16.920 align:center I will carefully consider your marriage request. 00:08:16.920 --> 00:08:18.840 align:center Thank you, Your Majesty. 00:08:22.080 --> 00:08:23.840 align:center Hold still. 00:08:23.840 --> 00:08:25.640 align:center It doesn't hurt. 00:08:26.440 --> 00:08:29.800 align:center If the wound were any deeper, it might have scarred your face. 00:08:30.440 --> 00:08:32.320 align:center A little scar is nothing. 00:08:32.320 --> 00:08:37.280 align:center Besides, with you as my doctor, I'm not afraid of any injury. 00:08:37.280 --> 00:08:40.120 align:center A scratch it may be, 00:08:40.120 --> 00:08:44.760 align:center but Song Han deliberately injured you to secure the top rank in the martial arts exam. 00:08:44.760 --> 00:08:46.680 align:center You should be careful around him. 00:08:46.680 --> 00:08:52.280 align:center What's more, his outstanding performance, coupled with Prince Qing's growing ambitions... 00:08:52.280 --> 00:08:54.880 align:center Is Song Han trying to pledge his allegiance to him? 00:08:54.880 --> 00:08:57.080 align:center Song Han has always been diligent and hard-working, 00:08:57.080 --> 00:08:58.480 align:center skilled in archery and horsemanship. 00:08:58.480 --> 00:09:00.160 align:center Given the state of this family, 00:09:00.160 --> 00:09:03.080 align:center it's understandable he wants to secure a future for himself. 00:09:03.080 --> 00:09:06.680 align:center But he shouldn't have chosen Prince Qing. 00:09:08.960 --> 00:09:11.560 align:center Prince Qing failed to use Yantang to his advantage, 00:09:11.560 --> 00:09:13.960 align:center so he's turned to Song Han instead. 00:09:14.880 --> 00:09:17.160 align:center But don't worry. 00:09:17.160 --> 00:09:20.480 align:center Once Song Han is engaged and establishes his own household, 00:09:20.480 --> 00:09:23.960 align:center we can use the opportunity to formally distance ourselves from him. 00:09:24.880 --> 00:09:30.360 align:center By the way, I heard Song Han petitioned His Majesty for a royal marriage. 00:09:30.360 --> 00:09:33.680 align:center His Majesty has only one princess, Jingyu. 00:09:33.680 --> 00:09:35.480 align:center She's been headstrong and willful since she was young. 00:09:35.480 --> 00:09:37.760 align:center Things might not go as he hopes. 00:09:39.800 --> 00:09:42.160 align:center [Zuixian Tower] 00:09:42.160 --> 00:09:44.680 align:center You've been favoring your son-in-law's family, 00:09:44.680 --> 00:09:48.200 align:center deliberately arranging for Song Han to challenge my son, 00:09:48.200 --> 00:09:50.800 align:center which has now left him crippled. 00:09:51.680 --> 00:09:53.760 align:center You've misunderstood. 00:09:53.760 --> 00:09:57.760 align:center If I really had such intentions, why would I use such an indirect approach? 00:09:57.760 --> 00:10:02.960 align:center Your son's injury is the doing of Song Han. 00:10:02.960 --> 00:10:05.160 align:center It has nothing to do with me. 00:10:06.280 --> 00:10:10.080 align:center You've climbed the ranks by cozying up with Princess Shude, 00:10:10.080 --> 00:10:13.080 align:center forcing Wang Xingyi out, everyone knows that. 00:10:13.080 --> 00:10:15.080 align:center We haven't even achieved the great cause yet, 00:10:15.080 --> 00:10:17.360 align:center and you've already schemed against me. 00:10:19.760 --> 00:10:23.480 align:center You've been paying too much attention to idle gossip. 00:10:23.480 --> 00:10:30.160 align:center Or are you just looking for an excuse to steal my position as Secondary Grand Secretary? 00:10:30.160 --> 00:10:35.560 align:center Well then, I'd love to see what other tricks you've got up your sleeve. 00:10:35.560 --> 00:10:42.680 align:center Fine! Since it's come to this, let's see how this plays out. 00:10:49.280 --> 00:10:50.480 align:center [Contentment and Happiness] 00:10:50.480 --> 00:10:52.960 align:center This way, please, Brother Han. 00:10:52.960 --> 00:10:54.680 align:center What a grand occasion! Isn't it? 00:10:54.680 --> 00:10:57.080 align:center Truly a rare sight. 00:10:59.560 --> 00:11:02.680 align:center Congratulations! It's such a joyous event! 00:11:03.840 --> 00:11:06.680 align:center Let's give Brother Han the celebration he deserves! 00:11:06.680 --> 00:11:08.840 align:center Yes, let's make sure Brother Han is well taken care of. 00:11:08.840 --> 00:11:10.920 align:center Back during the hunt, I already knew it. 00:11:10.920 --> 00:11:14.280 align:center Not only has Brother Han become the top scorer and received a sword bestowed by His Majesty, 00:11:14.280 --> 00:11:16.080 align:center he's even going to become a royal consort, too. 00:11:16.080 --> 00:11:18.560 align:center Such a bright future lies ahead! 00:11:18.560 --> 00:11:20.760 align:center Lord Song, we have a problem. 00:11:26.360 --> 00:11:30.560 align:center [I'm not marrying you, by Zhu Rongying] 00:11:33.920 --> 00:11:35.600 align:center [I'm not marrying you, by Zhu Rongying] 00:11:35.600 --> 00:11:39.040 align:center Song Han is a shameless, hypocritical scoundrel despised by all! 00:11:39.040 --> 00:11:41.800 align:center You absolutely cannot marry Rongying to him! 00:11:41.800 --> 00:11:44.880 align:center Better than marrying her off to Lizhen, isn't it? 00:11:44.880 --> 00:11:47.200 align:center Besides, this has nothing to do with you. 00:11:47.200 --> 00:11:49.320 align:center Why are you so worked up? 00:11:50.680 --> 00:11:53.040 align:center I'm just worrying about my friend. 00:11:53.040 --> 00:11:54.360 align:center You're such a good friend, huh? 00:11:54.360 --> 00:11:57.920 align:center Are you implying that I'm cold-hearted toward Rongying? 00:11:57.920 --> 00:12:01.280 align:center She's my only daughter. 00:12:01.280 --> 00:12:04.160 align:center Do you think I'd push her into a pit of fire? 00:12:04.160 --> 00:12:06.280 align:center At least Song Han is a martial champion. 00:12:06.280 --> 00:12:07.960 align:center What about you? 00:12:08.680 --> 00:12:10.680 align:center You're the one despised by all, 00:12:10.680 --> 00:12:13.680 align:center dragging the imperial family's dignity through the mud. 00:12:16.480 --> 00:12:17.960 align:center Your Majesty, please calm down. 00:12:17.960 --> 00:12:20.480 align:center Yu'er has been close with Rongying since they were children. 00:12:20.480 --> 00:12:22.880 align:center They're just looking out for each other. 00:12:22.880 --> 00:12:26.360 align:center Your Majesty, what is your decision? 00:12:28.680 --> 00:12:31.200 align:center I'm trying to figure something out. 00:12:32.280 --> 00:12:36.880 align:center Rongying flat-out refuses the marriage, and now he's here to add to the trouble. 00:12:36.880 --> 00:12:39.560 align:center Since the founding of this dynasty, it's been customary for the top scorer 00:12:39.560 --> 00:12:41.680 align:center of the imperial examination to request a favor. 00:12:41.680 --> 00:12:45.480 align:center There has never been a precedent for denying their request. 00:12:45.480 --> 00:12:50.280 align:center Song Han carries an innate defiance in his demeanor. 00:12:50.280 --> 00:12:55.080 align:center Moreover, his background is hardly a match for Rongying'er. 00:12:55.080 --> 00:12:59.480 align:center Why not designate another princess to marry him? 00:13:01.960 --> 00:13:04.480 align:center Designate another princess? 00:13:04.480 --> 00:13:07.480 align:center I've heard that the Miao family of Futing is a collateral branch 00:13:07.480 --> 00:13:09.280 align:center of the late Noble Consort Miao. 00:13:09.280 --> 00:13:12.280 align:center After the consort's passing, the Miao family withdrew from officialdom 00:13:12.280 --> 00:13:14.360 align:center and fell into the merchant class. 00:13:14.360 --> 00:13:19.480 align:center Their eldest daughter, Miao Ansu, is reputed for her virtue 00:13:19.480 --> 00:13:22.160 align:center and is the sworn sister of the Duchess of Ying. 00:13:22.160 --> 00:13:25.880 align:center Why not confer the title of princess upon Miao Ansu 00:13:25.880 --> 00:13:27.480 align:center and grant her in marriage to Song Han? 00:13:27.480 --> 00:13:29.560 align:center This way, it would remain within the Duke of Ying's extended family, 00:13:29.560 --> 00:13:31.480 align:center drawing them even closer. 00:13:31.480 --> 00:13:32.680 align:center That's an excellent idea! 00:13:32.680 --> 00:13:34.560 align:center Shut up! 00:13:45.480 --> 00:13:47.080 align:center Go and issue the decree. 00:13:47.080 --> 00:13:48.880 align:center Yes, Your Majesty. 00:13:51.160 --> 00:13:54.280 align:center Song Han has some audacity. 00:13:54.280 --> 00:13:57.680 align:center A love child dares to dream of marrying a princess? 00:13:57.680 --> 00:13:59.760 align:center He's clearly aiming for the stars. 00:13:59.760 --> 00:14:04.080 align:center But Miao Ansu and the Duchess of Ying are close friends. I'm worried... 00:14:04.080 --> 00:14:06.880 align:center Dou Zhao was just a powerless young girl, 00:14:06.880 --> 00:14:10.080 align:center yet now she has connections that span the entire court and commands instant support. 00:14:10.080 --> 00:14:13.080 align:center This wouldn't have been possible without Miao Ansu 00:14:13.080 --> 00:14:16.360 align:center earning money and smoothing things over for her. 00:14:18.280 --> 00:14:19.560 align:center Director Su. 00:14:19.560 --> 00:14:20.960 align:center Yes, Your Majesty. 00:14:20.960 --> 00:14:25.760 align:center When the princess marries, you will accompany her to the household as an attendant. 00:14:25.760 --> 00:14:29.680 align:center Carefully manage their friendship for them. 00:14:29.680 --> 00:14:32.560 align:center Yes, Your Majesty. 00:14:36.360 --> 00:14:40.680 align:center "By the decree of His Majesty, 00:14:40.680 --> 00:14:47.160 align:center Miao Ansu, gifted with natural grace and virtuous character, 00:14:47.160 --> 00:14:51.840 align:center is hereby conferred the title of Princess Anyu. 00:14:51.880 --> 00:14:53.880 align:center She is granted a golden scroll, 00:14:53.880 --> 00:14:56.360 align:center an annual stipend of two thousand bushels of grain, 00:14:56.360 --> 00:15:00.880 align:center and is bestowed in marriage to Song Han of the Duke of Ying's household. 00:15:00.880 --> 00:15:02.680 align:center So decreed." 00:15:02.680 --> 00:15:04.280 align:center You're a princess now! 00:15:04.280 --> 00:15:06.160 align:center This is wonderful, Sister! 00:15:12.320 --> 00:15:15.320 align:center Xing Shuang, bring me another dry cloth. 00:15:15.320 --> 00:15:16.520 align:center It's covered in snow. 00:15:16.520 --> 00:15:18.080 align:center It'll start sneezing again later. 00:15:18.080 --> 00:15:19.880 align:center Yes, Young Master. 00:15:20.880 --> 00:15:22.680 align:center Xing Shuang? 00:15:31.840 --> 00:15:35.000 align:center Greetings, Princess Anyu. 00:15:36.840 --> 00:15:38.640 align:center Get up. 00:15:40.680 --> 00:15:42.960 align:center I don't wish for this either. 00:15:42.960 --> 00:15:47.160 align:center Let's go to the palace now, and ask His Majesty to revoke the decree. 00:15:48.680 --> 00:15:51.160 align:center - Leave us. - Yes, Young Master. 00:15:53.280 --> 00:15:54.960 align:center Defying an imperial edict will get us executed. 00:15:54.960 --> 00:15:59.480 align:center Or is it that you also look down on my origins and would rather 00:15:59.480 --> 00:16:01.480 align:center risk disobedience, Your Highness? 00:16:01.480 --> 00:16:04.160 align:center That's not what I mean. 00:16:08.880 --> 00:16:11.560 align:center I've admired you for a long time. 00:16:13.480 --> 00:16:18.560 align:center But I know the person you wish to marry is Princess Jingyu. 00:16:20.080 --> 00:16:24.880 align:center His Majesty forcing this match upon us is unfair to both of us. 00:16:24.880 --> 00:16:27.080 align:center You can continue being a princess. 00:16:27.080 --> 00:16:29.560 align:center Don't give that up because of me. 00:16:31.880 --> 00:16:35.760 align:center I've written a petition stating that I've suddenly fallen ill. 00:16:35.760 --> 00:16:39.280 align:center This way, the marriage decree will be nullified. 00:16:39.280 --> 00:16:43.560 align:center If you say that, who's going to marry you in the future? 00:16:50.880 --> 00:16:53.160 align:center I have a cat that's spoiled. 00:16:53.160 --> 00:16:56.360 align:center It knows it has a home, and even if it gets lost, someone will come looking for it. 00:16:56.360 --> 00:16:58.520 align:center So it often wanders off. 00:17:00.680 --> 00:17:02.880 align:center I don't have that kind of luck. 00:17:05.880 --> 00:17:07.680 align:center The people... 00:17:09.280 --> 00:17:11.680 align:center who would search for me, 00:17:11.680 --> 00:17:14.280 align:center who would dry my tears and shield me from the storm, 00:17:16.160 --> 00:17:18.080 align:center are gone. 00:17:23.560 --> 00:17:28.080 align:center I... I'll go to His Majesty and request to cancel the engagement. 00:17:34.160 --> 00:17:36.160 align:center I'll marry you. 00:18:00.480 --> 00:18:02.080 align:center Su Su. 00:18:03.720 --> 00:18:07.040 align:center Su Su, don't worry. We won't let you jump into this pit of fire. 00:18:07.040 --> 00:18:09.280 align:center How about this? You hide outside the city for a few days. 00:18:09.280 --> 00:18:10.880 align:center Shougu has experience with breaking engagements. 00:18:10.880 --> 00:18:12.680 align:center We'll do something to break the engagement. 00:18:12.680 --> 00:18:14.360 align:center I've agreed to marry Song Han. 00:18:14.360 --> 00:18:15.680 align:center All right, we'll... 00:18:15.680 --> 00:18:17.400 align:center Wait, what? 00:18:17.400 --> 00:18:20.680 align:center Are you out of your mind, or have you lost your senses? 00:18:20.680 --> 00:18:22.800 align:center Did you go and see him? 00:18:25.640 --> 00:18:28.520 align:center Song Han has always been good at playing the victim and sweet-talking people. 00:18:28.520 --> 00:18:30.800 align:center I want to marry him. 00:18:30.800 --> 00:18:34.080 align:center With the honor of an imperial marriage and the title of princess, 00:18:34.080 --> 00:18:36.160 align:center this will greatly benefit our business. 00:18:36.160 --> 00:18:38.400 align:center Besides, his parents are gone. He needs my help. 00:18:38.400 --> 00:18:40.160 align:center So, he wouldn't dare mistreat me. 00:18:40.160 --> 00:18:42.560 align:center And with you managing the household, 00:18:42.560 --> 00:18:44.520 align:center sister-in-law relationships will be easier to handle. 00:18:44.520 --> 00:18:47.080 align:center This marriage is actually a good arrangement. 00:18:47.080 --> 00:18:50.400 align:center You made some good points, but have you thought about the most important thing? 00:18:50.400 --> 00:18:53.200 align:center You like him, but does he like you back? 00:18:53.200 --> 00:18:55.800 align:center This man isn't exactly trustworthy. 00:18:55.800 --> 00:18:58.320 align:center He's had a difficult past, 00:18:58.320 --> 00:19:01.000 align:center so it's only natural for him to be cautious and guarded. 00:19:02.360 --> 00:19:05.120 align:center Sister Zhao, remember when we used to transplant rice or flowers? 00:19:05.120 --> 00:19:07.320 align:center Sometimes we'd come across plants with weak roots. 00:19:07.320 --> 00:19:11.440 align:center But with proper care, they eventually thrived and bore fruit. 00:19:11.440 --> 00:19:15.240 align:center A marriage is like transplanting a seedling. 00:19:15.240 --> 00:19:18.440 align:center I believe I can change him. 00:19:35.640 --> 00:19:39.000 align:center Young Master, you've been waiting for four hours. 00:20:04.000 --> 00:20:05.920 align:center Thank you for the test. 00:20:05.920 --> 00:20:10.040 align:center Lord Song, please take a seat. 00:20:15.000 --> 00:20:18.680 align:center This used to be the Duke of Ying's spot. 00:20:18.680 --> 00:20:21.640 align:center Now it's yours. [Confidential Letter] 00:20:25.200 --> 00:20:29.000 align:center [Duke of Ying's Residence] 00:20:38.040 --> 00:20:40.920 align:center Anping, stop opening up the gifts. 00:20:40.920 --> 00:20:44.160 align:center Noble families care a lot about saving face. 00:20:44.680 --> 00:20:46.360 align:center My sister is a princess. 00:20:46.360 --> 00:20:48.880 align:center Her moving into his residence is already saving him face. 00:20:48.880 --> 00:20:51.960 align:center Keep your voice down! Don't let Song Han hear such remarks, 00:20:51.960 --> 00:20:54.320 align:center or you might bring trouble to your sister. 00:20:54.320 --> 00:20:58.240 align:center All right. Most of these gifts are from business associates. 00:20:58.240 --> 00:21:00.920 align:center He's neither the legitimate heir nor the eldest son. He has no right to complain. 00:21:00.920 --> 00:21:04.760 align:center That's right. What's so special about these cups and jade trinkets anyway? 00:21:04.760 --> 00:21:07.360 align:center Stop opening them. 00:21:10.200 --> 00:21:11.440 align:center I'm sorry about this, Son-in-law. 00:21:11.440 --> 00:21:14.680 align:center Anping had a bit to drink and got carried away. 00:21:14.680 --> 00:21:16.520 align:center Please don't take offense. 00:21:20.080 --> 00:21:21.680 align:center It's fine. 00:21:22.240 --> 00:21:25.160 align:center These gifts were meant for Princess Anyu in the first place. 00:21:25.160 --> 00:21:29.000 align:center Anping is her brother, after all. 00:21:29.000 --> 00:21:30.120 align:center You're absolutely right. 00:21:30.120 --> 00:21:34.440 align:center Father, Mother, since Brother-in-law said so, as the only son in the family, 00:21:34.440 --> 00:21:37.720 align:center shouldn't I be the one managing my sister's gifts and dowry? 00:21:37.720 --> 00:21:39.800 align:center How insolent! 00:21:41.360 --> 00:21:44.320 align:center - Who is she? - Who are you? 00:21:50.960 --> 00:21:52.400 align:center How dare you hit me! 00:21:52.400 --> 00:21:53.720 align:center Do you know who I am? 00:21:53.720 --> 00:21:58.000 align:center My sister is a princess by imperial decree, and I'm her only younger brother! 00:21:58.880 --> 00:22:00.560 align:center This is the empress's jade token. 00:22:00.560 --> 00:22:03.920 align:center To see this is to see the empress herself. 00:22:05.360 --> 00:22:09.440 align:center You, a mere commoner, dare to lay claim to the princess's gifts? 00:22:09.440 --> 00:22:11.320 align:center You've openly disregarded the dignity of the imperial family. 00:22:11.320 --> 00:22:14.040 align:center Guards! Drag him out and flog him 20 times. 00:22:14.040 --> 00:22:15.560 align:center Father! Mother! 00:22:15.560 --> 00:22:16.800 align:center Walk! 00:22:16.800 --> 00:22:18.680 align:center Madam! Please have mercy! 00:22:18.680 --> 00:22:20.000 align:center Your Majesty, please forgive him! 00:22:20.000 --> 00:22:23.160 align:center - It's my fault. I failed to discipline my son well. - Director Su. 00:22:25.360 --> 00:22:27.360 align:center The princess requests your presence. 00:22:28.600 --> 00:22:32.800 align:center Out of respect for the princess, I'll let this matter slide today. 00:22:32.800 --> 00:22:35.920 align:center But if you dare disgrace the imperial family's honor again, 00:22:35.920 --> 00:22:38.840 align:center it won't be as simple as a flogging. 00:22:39.600 --> 00:22:42.080 align:center Thank you, Your Majesty! 00:22:44.560 --> 00:22:45.880 align:center Son! 00:22:45.880 --> 00:22:49.840 align:center - Are you all right? - My face is swollen, Mother. 00:22:52.800 --> 00:22:55.080 align:center [Overwhelming Spirit] 00:23:09.280 --> 00:23:10.800 align:center The auspicious hour has arrived. 00:23:10.800 --> 00:23:13.600 align:center The bride and groom shall now perform the bowing ceremony. 00:23:13.600 --> 00:23:17.440 align:center First bow, the princess and her husband. 00:23:19.760 --> 00:23:22.320 align:center Second bow. 00:23:23.200 --> 00:23:28.200 align:center A lowly illegitimate son marrying a princess from a merchant family. 00:23:28.200 --> 00:23:30.920 align:center No wonder only the lady official is presiding. 00:23:30.920 --> 00:23:32.800 align:center Even the duke and duchess didn't bother to attend. 00:23:32.800 --> 00:23:34.640 align:center Exactly. 00:23:35.480 --> 00:23:37.120 align:center The Duke and Duchess of Ying 00:23:37.120 --> 00:23:41.520 align:center has come to congratulate the martial champion and Princess Anyu! 00:23:43.520 --> 00:23:46.840 align:center Duke and Duchess. 00:23:53.560 --> 00:23:56.360 align:center Sister Zhao, I knew you'd come. 00:23:56.360 --> 00:23:58.360 align:center Of course I'd come. 00:23:59.960 --> 00:24:02.040 align:center Cover your face. 00:24:03.640 --> 00:24:06.560 align:center Look at that! That's a lot! 00:24:07.480 --> 00:24:09.120 align:center So much gold, silver, and jewelry! 00:24:09.120 --> 00:24:12.560 align:center Just look at it, there's every style imaginable! 00:24:12.560 --> 00:24:17.120 align:center Today is the princess's wedding. Please join in the celebration. 00:24:23.000 --> 00:24:24.760 align:center Thank you all for attending the wedding. 00:24:24.760 --> 00:24:25.880 align:center According to custom, 00:24:25.880 --> 00:24:29.400 align:center those who bear witness to the union must have experienced full blessings themselves. 00:24:29.400 --> 00:24:32.280 align:center Having lost both my parents and faced a life fraught with misfortune, 00:24:32.280 --> 00:24:36.240 align:center I once thought I would never feel the warmth of family. 00:24:36.240 --> 00:24:43.880 align:center But I was fortunate to have someone come into my life. 00:24:46.920 --> 00:24:49.960 align:center Now, I cherish the beauty of a good marriage 00:24:49.960 --> 00:24:54.360 align:center and the rarity of finding a true partner more than anyone. 00:24:55.440 --> 00:24:57.160 align:center So, 00:24:58.520 --> 00:25:03.400 align:center Song Han, I wish the same good fortune for you. 00:25:03.400 --> 00:25:07.120 align:center May your union be as harmonious as the zither and lute. 00:25:07.960 --> 00:25:14.040 align:center I believe this is also Song Yichun's greatest wish for you. 00:25:17.920 --> 00:25:19.560 align:center Brother, thank you for your wishes. 00:25:19.560 --> 00:25:20.640 align:center The ceremony is complete! 00:25:20.640 --> 00:25:22.360 align:center Yes! Yes! 00:25:22.360 --> 00:25:25.480 align:center Congratulations! May the bride and groom grow old together in happiness! 00:25:25.480 --> 00:25:27.480 align:center Congratulations! 00:25:37.320 --> 00:25:42.240 align:center Since you came to give your blessings to Ansu, why didn't you attend her wedding ceremony? 00:25:43.480 --> 00:25:47.600 align:center A crowd of ordinary people making a ruckus. What's the fun in that? 00:25:49.640 --> 00:25:54.760 align:center But you, on the other hand, put on quite the show of deep brotherly affection. 00:25:56.800 --> 00:25:58.760 align:center What do you want? 00:25:58.760 --> 00:26:02.040 align:center I taught you acupuncture to save others. 00:26:02.040 --> 00:26:05.800 align:center Today, I'll give you another piece of advice to save yourself. 00:26:05.800 --> 00:26:07.280 align:center What do you mean? 00:26:07.280 --> 00:26:09.480 align:center Leave Mantis Song. 00:26:16.920 --> 00:26:19.200 align:center He's a target for everyone right now. 00:26:19.200 --> 00:26:24.200 align:center For your own sake and for the Dou family, you can't follow him into danger. 00:26:24.840 --> 00:26:28.760 align:center I just want to break free from this game of chess and gain my freedom. 00:26:28.760 --> 00:26:30.760 align:center Do you even know who's controlling the game? 00:26:30.760 --> 00:26:34.560 align:center Even His Majesty might be just another pawn. 00:26:34.560 --> 00:26:38.120 align:center It's still uncertain who will win in the end. 00:26:38.120 --> 00:26:42.320 align:center And even if that day comes, I will accept it willingly. 00:26:43.960 --> 00:26:45.800 align:center As expected. 00:26:45.800 --> 00:26:49.120 align:center When one is caught up in love, even the wisest become foolish. 00:26:49.120 --> 00:26:51.040 align:center Don't say I didn't warn you. 00:26:51.040 --> 00:26:54.000 align:center If something happens to Mantis Song again, 00:26:54.000 --> 00:26:59.040 align:center the little freedom you've managed to claim will be hanging by a thread. 00:27:12.280 --> 00:27:14.080 align:center - Congratulations, Second Young Master. - Congratulations, Second Young Master. 00:27:14.080 --> 00:27:15.880 align:center Thank you. 00:27:17.840 --> 00:27:19.920 align:center Congratulations, Second Young Master. 00:27:21.760 --> 00:27:24.800 align:center - Wishing you a lifetime of happiness. - Wishing you a lifetime of happiness. 00:27:24.800 --> 00:27:26.680 align:center Look at him. 00:27:26.680 --> 00:27:28.080 align:center - Second Young Master. - Second Young Master. 00:27:28.080 --> 00:27:32.240 align:center Wishing you a lifetime of happiness, and the swift arrival of a child! 00:27:33.240 --> 00:27:35.360 align:center His father died, and now he relies on his new wife. 00:27:35.360 --> 00:27:38.360 align:center - That's right. - Congratulations, Second Young Master. 00:27:39.080 --> 00:27:40.760 align:center Come on. 00:27:45.960 --> 00:27:49.080 align:center An illegitimate son managing to rise this far, it's like his ancestors' graves are spewing good fortune! 00:27:49.080 --> 00:27:50.400 align:center What more could he want? 00:27:50.400 --> 00:27:52.120 align:center When his father was alive, he relied on him. 00:27:52.120 --> 00:27:53.800 align:center After his father's death, he relied on his brother. 00:27:53.800 --> 00:27:55.800 align:center And now he's relying on his new wife. 00:27:55.800 --> 00:27:58.160 align:center What a lucky man! 00:28:22.120 --> 00:28:24.920 align:center - Congratulations, Prince Consort. - Congratulations, Prince Consort. 00:28:26.200 --> 00:28:28.120 align:center Thank you, Prince Consort. 00:28:28.120 --> 00:28:30.840 align:center - Thank you, Prince Consort. - You may go. 00:28:39.520 --> 00:28:42.280 align:center Congratulations, Prince Consort. 00:28:43.960 --> 00:28:46.600 align:center Director Su, you may also go and rest. 00:28:46.600 --> 00:28:48.520 align:center Thank you, Prince Consort. 00:29:22.360 --> 00:29:23.960 align:center Your Highness. 00:30:23.680 --> 00:30:27.080 align:center I'm not used to having people serve me, so I poured the nuptial wine myself. 00:30:27.080 --> 00:30:28.560 align:center Was that improper? 00:30:28.560 --> 00:30:31.720 align:center You're worrying for nothing, Your Highness. It's perfectly fine. 00:30:31.720 --> 00:30:37.400 align:center I don't like having attendants in the room either, so I dismissed them. 00:30:38.120 --> 00:30:41.560 align:center You should just call me Ansu, like before. 00:30:41.560 --> 00:30:43.480 align:center Addressing me as Your Highness sounds distant. 00:30:43.480 --> 00:30:45.760 align:center You're a princess, Your Highness. 00:30:45.760 --> 00:30:47.520 align:center I wouldn't dare to be rude. 00:30:50.920 --> 00:30:55.760 align:center According to tradition, shouldn't we start by drinking the nuptial wine? 00:31:58.880 --> 00:32:01.800 align:center Muyu, I have a wedding gift for you. 00:32:01.800 --> 00:32:04.600 align:center Can you turn around first? 00:32:27.240 --> 00:32:29.240 align:center Muyu! 00:32:42.960 --> 00:32:44.840 align:center Your face. 00:32:48.720 --> 00:32:53.400 align:center This is the handkerchief I gave you when we first met. 00:32:53.400 --> 00:32:55.400 align:center You've been keeping it. 00:33:07.920 --> 00:33:11.160 align:center Your Highness! I'm sorry! 00:33:11.160 --> 00:33:15.320 align:center This handkerchief was the start of our connection. 00:33:15.320 --> 00:33:18.160 align:center I was going to return it to you today, 00:33:19.160 --> 00:33:22.520 align:center as a way to affirm our love. 00:33:23.520 --> 00:33:26.200 align:center I've never been comfortable with people serving me closely... 00:33:27.640 --> 00:33:30.520 align:center because I often lose control over myself. 00:33:30.520 --> 00:33:33.120 align:center I don't even know why I've become this way. 00:33:33.120 --> 00:33:36.200 align:center Your Highness, I'm sorry. 00:33:36.200 --> 00:33:40.200 align:center I'll excuse myself for tonight. Get some rest. 00:33:57.280 --> 00:34:01.000 align:center [Duke of Ying Residence] 00:34:01.000 --> 00:34:03.480 align:center Princess Anyu has arrived. 00:34:04.200 --> 00:34:06.920 align:center Did you get a good night's sleep? 00:34:06.920 --> 00:34:10.480 align:center Thank you for your concern. I'm feeling much better. 00:34:12.200 --> 00:34:14.520 align:center - Greetings... - Your Highness, 00:34:14.520 --> 00:34:20.600 align:center your noble status requires that everyone should bow to you and offer tea. 00:34:21.200 --> 00:34:22.680 align:center That's right. 00:34:22.680 --> 00:34:25.600 align:center We are but subjects, and you must take precedence, Your Highness. 00:34:25.600 --> 00:34:27.120 align:center We cannot disrupt the proper hierarchy. 00:34:27.120 --> 00:34:30.520 align:center Indeed. Your marriage to our family is a great honor bestowed by His Majesty. 00:34:30.520 --> 00:34:33.720 align:center Perhaps you should oversee the household affairs, Your Highness, 00:34:33.720 --> 00:34:36.800 align:center it would symbolize unity between the royal family and its subjects. 00:34:36.800 --> 00:34:38.960 align:center My sister-in-law is the mistress of this household. 00:34:38.960 --> 00:34:41.440 align:center It is only right for me to serve her tea. 00:34:42.480 --> 00:34:45.960 align:center Your Highness, that would go against the royal etiquette. 00:34:45.960 --> 00:34:50.640 align:center Her Grace should bow to you and offer tea. 00:34:50.640 --> 00:34:54.200 align:center The dignity of the royal family cannot be compromised. 00:35:07.840 --> 00:35:11.400 align:center You're right, Director Su. I was being foolish. 00:35:11.400 --> 00:35:13.280 align:center Bring the tea. 00:35:29.400 --> 00:35:33.640 align:center Your Grace, please kneel and offer tea to Princess Anyu. 00:35:47.400 --> 00:35:49.080 align:center Sister. 00:35:49.880 --> 00:35:51.680 align:center - Let me offer you tea. - Your Highness, 00:35:51.680 --> 00:35:54.480 align:center this goes against the royal etiquette. 00:35:54.480 --> 00:35:56.480 align:center If this goes against the etiquette, 00:35:56.480 --> 00:36:02.080 align:center Director Su, please tell Her Majesty to replace me with another princess. 00:36:10.400 --> 00:36:12.680 align:center There's no need for this between us. 00:36:13.480 --> 00:36:15.480 align:center Let's keep things as they've always been. 00:36:15.480 --> 00:36:18.960 align:center In the days ahead, we'll support each other as equals. 00:36:34.240 --> 00:36:36.680 align:center [The Beautiful Sounds of Bamboo and Pine] 00:36:41.800 --> 00:36:46.360 align:center Your Highness, you're a noble now. Why are you doing chores? 00:36:46.360 --> 00:36:50.880 align:center And that maid, Su Lan, she was ordering you around. 00:36:50.880 --> 00:36:52.760 align:center How is that acceptable? 00:36:52.760 --> 00:36:56.880 align:center We grew up together like sisters. There's no such thing as master and servant between us. 00:36:56.880 --> 00:37:01.240 align:center That was before. You are a princess now. 00:37:01.840 --> 00:37:05.480 align:center Every word and action of yours reflects the dignity of the royal family. 00:37:10.040 --> 00:37:11.640 align:center Your Highness. 00:37:12.840 --> 00:37:15.120 align:center Prince Consort. 00:37:15.120 --> 00:37:17.240 align:center This is the most popular shop in the capital right now. 00:37:17.240 --> 00:37:19.280 align:center I had someone stand in line to get these. 00:37:20.600 --> 00:37:22.600 align:center Try one. 00:37:28.080 --> 00:37:29.560 align:center How is it? 00:37:29.560 --> 00:37:31.440 align:center It's good! 00:37:44.160 --> 00:37:45.880 align:center Yes, it is. 00:37:49.120 --> 00:37:52.360 align:center I... I should bring some over to Sister Zhao. 00:37:56.000 --> 00:37:57.880 align:center I'll go with you. 00:38:07.680 --> 00:38:09.000 align:center Sister, you're slacking off again! 00:38:09.000 --> 00:38:11.680 align:center Didn't you say you couldn't find the full opera anthology? 00:38:11.680 --> 00:38:13.720 align:center Why don't you ask Ansu to help? 00:38:13.720 --> 00:38:15.200 align:center During the previous Double Ninth Festival, 00:38:15.200 --> 00:38:17.600 align:center she was always the one organizing these books and miscellaneous items. 00:38:17.600 --> 00:38:20.600 align:center She knows better than anyone where each volume belongs. 00:38:20.600 --> 00:38:23.000 align:center She's a princess now. 00:38:23.000 --> 00:38:26.800 align:center Just earlier, when I went to Xixiang House to assign tasks, that lady official rebuked me. 00:38:26.800 --> 00:38:29.560 align:center I wanted to talk to Ansu about it, but Song Han stopped me. 00:38:29.560 --> 00:38:31.040 align:center Acting all high and mighty. 00:38:31.040 --> 00:38:34.600 align:center One day, she might even use us as scapegoats to establish her authority. 00:38:34.600 --> 00:38:38.200 align:center If it weren't for Madam, she wouldn't be where she is today. 00:38:38.200 --> 00:38:40.640 align:center Never say such things again. 00:38:44.480 --> 00:38:48.200 align:center We've been out here all day, and the paintings still aren't dry. 00:38:51.200 --> 00:38:54.480 align:center The wind is picking up, hurry and gather them up. 00:38:56.320 --> 00:38:58.120 align:center Ansu. 00:38:59.200 --> 00:39:01.600 align:center Let's deliver the pastries later. 00:39:01.600 --> 00:39:03.320 align:center Let's head back first. 00:39:03.320 --> 00:39:04.880 align:center I have a gift for you. 00:39:04.880 --> 00:39:07.240 align:center I was going to give it to you during the Double Ninth Festival. 00:39:07.240 --> 00:39:11.360 align:center I don't know if you'll like it, but let's go take a look. 00:39:27.960 --> 00:39:31.640 align:center This is a room I prepared for you. 00:39:31.640 --> 00:39:36.280 align:center You can study soils, manage accounts, or do anything else you want here. 00:39:47.000 --> 00:39:50.920 align:center Have you been sleeping here these past few days? 00:39:50.920 --> 00:39:52.520 align:center Yes. 00:39:52.520 --> 00:39:56.000 align:center I'm afraid that if my illness acts up, I might hurt you again. 00:39:56.000 --> 00:40:01.400 align:center Earlier, when I pulled you away from the Yizhi Hall, it was also to protect you. 00:40:02.840 --> 00:40:06.920 align:center Some people say things just to vent their emotions. 00:40:06.920 --> 00:40:09.320 align:center Don't take them to heart. 00:40:09.320 --> 00:40:11.920 align:center They weren't wrong. 00:40:11.920 --> 00:40:13.280 align:center When my family fell on hard times, 00:40:13.280 --> 00:40:17.560 align:center if it weren't for Sister Zhao treating me like a sister, nurturing and guiding me, 00:40:19.240 --> 00:40:21.160 align:center I would've been no different from a servant. 00:40:21.160 --> 00:40:22.960 align:center I'm sure Sister-in-law didn't mean it. 00:40:22.960 --> 00:40:24.800 align:center She's just used to ordering you around. 00:40:24.800 --> 00:40:27.080 align:center Habits like that don't change overnight. 00:40:32.960 --> 00:40:35.280 align:center In the world, 00:40:35.280 --> 00:40:41.840 align:center having just one person who values you and treasures you is enough. 00:40:53.800 --> 00:40:55.280 align:center [Yizhi Hall] 00:40:55.280 --> 00:40:59.480 align:center Your Grace and Madam, our spies in Liaodong have sent word. 00:41:00.720 --> 00:41:02.120 align:center According to the imperial decree, 00:41:02.120 --> 00:41:04.680 align:center ten dans of grain at the horse market should be sold for seven taels. 00:41:04.680 --> 00:41:08.720 align:center However, Prince Qing has been secretly raising the price to 20 taels per month 00:41:08.720 --> 00:41:10.200 align:center while submitting only 30 percent of the proceeds to the court. 00:41:10.200 --> 00:41:12.000 align:center This has caused chaos in Liaodong. 00:41:12.000 --> 00:41:15.480 align:center Prince Qing is abusing his power to amass private wealth. 00:41:15.480 --> 00:41:18.240 align:center This is a serious matter that requires careful planning. 00:41:18.240 --> 00:41:20.360 align:center If we act rashly without a backup plan, 00:41:20.360 --> 00:41:24.560 align:center Prince Qing might cover it up and turn it against us. 00:41:40.960 --> 00:41:44.800 align:center I'm sorry, Dou Zhao. Please don't blame it on Her Highness and ruin your friendship. 00:41:44.800 --> 00:41:48.280 align:center You keep saying we're friends, yet you've painted my husband and me as beasts. 00:41:48.280 --> 00:41:50.400 align:center Don't I at least deserve an explanation? 00:41:50.400 --> 00:41:53.680 align:center If I hadn't come, were you going to tear Dou Zhao apart? 00:41:53.680 --> 00:41:56.120 align:center Today, I sever all ties between us. 00:41:56.120 --> 00:41:59.840 align:center The next time we meet, we will be enemies.