WEBVTT 00:06.560 --> 00:08.439 I am guilty! 00:08.440 --> 00:11.279 Song Mo is innocent! 00:11.280 --> 00:12.879 I will testify in person. 00:12.880 --> 00:14.679 Please grant justice to Song Mo! 00:14.680 --> 00:15.959 Stop it, Shiying! 00:15.960 --> 00:18.040 - This is embarrassing! - Get out of my way! 00:19.920 --> 00:21.119 Have you lost your mind? 00:21.120 --> 00:23.839 Did that scoundrel son-in-law of yours bewitch you? 00:23.840 --> 00:25.439 Get a grip! 00:25.440 --> 00:28.679 You deceived your own brother, and framed your niece and nephew-in-law. 00:28.680 --> 00:30.239 You're the one who needs to wake up! 00:30.240 --> 00:31.960 You fool! 00:34.040 --> 00:36.079 Brother, I've slapped myself twice for you. 00:36.080 --> 00:41.279 All these years, just because I'm your younger brother, 00:41.280 --> 00:45.159 how many lives have been sacrificed, how many mistakes have been made? 00:45.160 --> 00:47.039 This has to stop! 00:47.040 --> 00:49.119 You're using Dou Zhao and Song Mo as sacrificial pawns, 00:49.120 --> 00:51.439 using the lives of countless citizens as bargaining chips 00:51.440 --> 00:55.080 for wealth and power. I will never allow it! 00:56.440 --> 00:59.199 An elder brother is like a father. 00:59.200 --> 01:04.119 As long as you bear the Dou name, you will obey me. 01:04.120 --> 01:10.360 That was the last time I'll ever call you my brother. 01:11.240 --> 01:16.560 Your kindness in raising me, I now repay with blood. 01:17.960 --> 01:20.719 What are you trying to do? You... 01:20.720 --> 01:22.599 In ancient times, they spoke of three stabs to sever ties. 01:22.600 --> 01:24.839 Stab me three times. 01:24.840 --> 01:27.239 After that, we will go our separate ways, 01:27.240 --> 01:29.720 and have nothing more to do with each other. 01:31.200 --> 01:33.759 You think I won't do it? 01:33.760 --> 01:38.360 Fine, I'll grant your wish today! 01:58.120 --> 02:00.760 I expected too much from you. 02:02.640 --> 02:05.760 From now on, we have nothing to do with each other. 02:15.760 --> 02:19.720 The brothers of the Dou family have fallen out. 02:32.000 --> 02:32.040 [Chronicles of the World] 02:54.200 --> 02:57.239 If you ruin Prince Qing's plans, His Highness won't let you off. 02:57.240 --> 03:01.600 If His Highness finds out you've rescued his enemy, he'll kill you just the same. 03:03.920 --> 03:07.439 When did His Highness ever instruct you to lay your hands on the Duchess of Ying? 03:07.440 --> 03:11.799 Song Mo's guilt hasn't even been decided, and you're already making your move. 03:11.800 --> 03:15.880 Do you think His Highness doesn't see through your selfish agenda? 03:17.840 --> 03:19.440 Search! 03:36.480 --> 03:39.519 It's just my puppy. 03:39.520 --> 03:42.760 Thank you for caring so much about my dog. 03:44.320 --> 03:50.159 Oh, by the way, Lord Song, was your childhood nickname "doggie"? 03:50.160 --> 03:54.360 No wonder you've grown up wanting to bite everyone you meet. 04:10.160 --> 04:15.239 His Highness said that since you enjoy starting fires, 04:15.240 --> 04:18.519 it's only fitting to host you this way. 04:18.520 --> 04:25.919 As long as you confess to fabricating the contracts, and framing Prince Qing, 04:25.920 --> 04:29.799 you will spare yourself some suffering. Isn't that better? 04:29.800 --> 04:34.039 Eunuch Wang, I've seen every trick in the book. 04:34.040 --> 04:38.799 If I write a confession, I'm as good as dead. 04:38.800 --> 04:43.280 Whatever cruel methods you have, bring them on. 04:49.520 --> 04:51.599 His Majesty has not authorized torture. 04:51.600 --> 04:57.360 You might be accused of forcing a confession under duress by doing this. 05:00.080 --> 05:02.599 Don't try to play both sides. 05:02.600 --> 05:07.040 So, what do you suggest I do instead? 05:09.400 --> 05:11.520 I dare not say. 05:19.360 --> 05:27.999 I know you're a tough one, but being tough is useless here. 05:28.000 --> 05:36.120 This place can turn even the hardest heart of a duke into water. 06:07.320 --> 06:11.119 Justice and fairness are whatever pleases the emperor's will. 06:11.120 --> 06:13.599 Are you not afraid of death? 06:13.600 --> 06:18.039 What about the 237 family members of the Duke of Ding, 06:18.040 --> 06:23.000 the young and old, are they also not afraid of death? 06:28.600 --> 06:30.479 - Yantang... - Uncle... 06:30.480 --> 06:33.000 - Uncle! - It's your fault. 06:33.480 --> 06:36.439 - No... - Help... 06:36.440 --> 06:38.560 Help me. 06:40.120 --> 06:42.120 Help me. 06:43.400 --> 06:47.159 What about your parents and younger brother? 06:47.160 --> 06:51.280 If they're implicated because of you, will you be able to live with it? 06:52.040 --> 07:00.440 Is your innocence worth sacrificing the lives of your closest kin? 07:04.360 --> 07:07.239 Yantang, what are you doing? 07:07.240 --> 07:09.599 I don't need to know anything else, 07:09.600 --> 07:12.839 I only need to know how to manipulate your emotions. 07:12.840 --> 07:18.799 Compared to being cut to pieces, this incense enhances feelings and, 07:18.800 --> 07:23.159 paired with the effect of the grudgebane, will make your suffering unbearable. 07:23.160 --> 07:28.160 Savor the agony as the poison takes effect. 07:50.600 --> 07:52.400 Yantang... 07:53.960 --> 07:57.240 Yantang... Yantang... 08:42.040 --> 08:45.239 ♪ The jade terrace drifts like a shadow, all devoid of magnificence ♪ 08:45.240 --> 08:48.640 ♪ Thousands of soldiers stop at your feet ♪ 08:50.880 --> 08:52.680 Yantang... 08:54.480 --> 08:56.680 Shougu... 09:03.840 --> 09:05.359 Are you here to get me? 09:05.360 --> 09:07.439 You've come to get me. 09:07.440 --> 09:14.199 ♪ Let me put down my sword and thank the sea of ​​sand, and give you a jade hairpin ♪ 09:14.200 --> 09:20.999 ♪ I want these thousands of trees to bloom for you overnight ♪ 09:21.000 --> 09:24.160 ♪ How helpless is prosperity ♪ 09:25.720 --> 09:28.239 Madam? Are you all right, Madam? 09:28.240 --> 09:30.759 Madam? Please don't scare me. Madam! 09:30.760 --> 09:32.640 Madam! 09:34.080 --> 09:40.320 ♪ I will hold you in my arms and leave the mountains and seas outside ♪ 09:41.000 --> 09:42.800 Yantang? 09:44.520 --> 09:46.400 Yantang? 09:47.080 --> 09:50.399 ♪ The spring moon is full of colors in the city ♪ 09:50.400 --> 09:52.200 Yantang? 09:56.000 --> 09:57.800 Yantang! 10:32.680 --> 10:39.279 ♪ I want to hold the mountains and seas in my hands and open my heart to you ♪ 10:39.280 --> 10:46.239 ♪ Let the world judge me arbitrarily ♪ 10:46.240 --> 10:52.599 ♪ I'll just write in bold ink for you ♪ 10:52.600 --> 11:02.640 ​♪ Apart from that, let the rest pale in comparison ♪ 11:17.320 --> 11:19.959 Shougu, you're finally awake! 11:19.960 --> 11:22.760 Grandmother, Shougu is awake! 11:24.840 --> 11:26.840 Easy, easy. 11:30.840 --> 11:33.120 Shougu, easy. 11:34.120 --> 11:35.999 Grandmother. 11:36.000 --> 11:38.000 Cousin. 11:39.840 --> 11:42.039 How did I get here? 11:42.040 --> 11:44.359 Jianming brought you here. 11:44.360 --> 11:45.959 He's taken care of everything. 11:45.960 --> 11:48.520 He said this is the safest place for you. 11:50.840 --> 11:52.760 Yantang... 11:53.840 --> 11:55.559 Don't worry. 11:55.560 --> 11:59.279 Yantang is a blessed child. He will be fine. 11:59.280 --> 12:01.999 His Majesty isn't a foolish ruler. 12:02.000 --> 12:03.999 He'll make a wise decision. 12:04.000 --> 12:06.199 Over a hundred civil officials from the Cui family are speaking up for you. 12:06.200 --> 12:08.999 You have an entire family backing you up. 12:09.000 --> 12:11.199 Just stay here and feel at ease. 12:11.200 --> 12:13.840 Focus on recovering. 12:15.600 --> 12:17.279 My baby... 12:17.280 --> 12:22.719 The baby is fine, but the doctor said your current condition is due to extreme stress 12:22.720 --> 12:24.239 and emotional upheaval. 12:24.240 --> 12:26.959 You are very weak. 12:26.960 --> 12:28.999 You need careful nurturing. 12:29.000 --> 12:31.400 You mustn't let this leave a lasting impact. 12:33.120 --> 12:36.080 Come, lie down. 12:39.440 --> 12:41.359 Get some rest. 12:41.360 --> 12:44.520 Grandmother, easy. 13:26.840 --> 13:28.319 Stop! 13:28.320 --> 13:30.519 The Drum of Appeal is not to be struck recklessly! 13:30.520 --> 13:34.719 The Drum of Appeal was established by the founding emperor 13:34.720 --> 13:39.039 to ensure fairness and allow grievances to be heard. 13:39.040 --> 13:44.000 What authority does the Directorate of Ceremonies have to stop me from seeking justice? 13:46.120 --> 13:48.079 Song Mo set fires and injured people. 13:48.080 --> 13:50.079 There are countless witnesses. 13:50.080 --> 13:53.520 And yet, Minister Dou, you still claim this is an injustice? 13:54.080 --> 13:56.759 This is outright slander against the court. Take him away! 13:56.760 --> 13:59.439 - I demand justice for Song Mo! - Stop! 13:59.440 --> 14:03.479 Justice lies in the hearts of the people. It's not up to you to decide. 14:03.480 --> 14:07.039 I was the one who ordered Minister Dou to strike the Drum of Appeal. 14:07.040 --> 14:12.760 Eunuch Wang, are you going to take me away as well? 14:16.000 --> 14:18.240 I wouldn't dare. 14:18.840 --> 14:21.079 Then scram. 14:21.080 --> 14:22.880 Yes, Your Highness. 14:25.720 --> 14:27.200 Let's go. 14:31.840 --> 14:35.240 - Minister Dou. - Your Highness. 14:37.080 --> 14:39.839 Thank you, Your Highness. 14:39.840 --> 14:43.360 My actions were personal. 14:43.920 --> 14:45.599 I wouldn't dare implicate you. 14:45.600 --> 14:48.999 Song Mo is loyal and brave, and you are an honorable official. 14:49.000 --> 14:52.440 It is my duty to ensure that justice is preserved for the court. 14:54.120 --> 14:59.639 Your Highness, your sense of justice is a blessing to the realm. 14:59.640 --> 15:04.359 Please convey this to His Majesty 15:04.360 --> 15:09.360 not to wrong those who are loyal and true. 15:12.840 --> 15:14.439 Rumors have been spreading across the capital 15:14.440 --> 15:15.959 about Yunfei Jewelry Pavilion being used for factionalism and corruption, 15:15.960 --> 15:17.719 and claims that the Drum of Appeal has been unanswered. 15:17.720 --> 15:25.200 Investigations have revealed that the Lu Ji Dentistry shop is secretly owned by Prince Qing. 15:25.880 --> 15:27.919 It is lavishly outfitted with extravagant expenditures, 15:27.920 --> 15:31.519 and conceals enough silver to cover half a year of taxes for the northern Zhili province. 15:31.520 --> 15:34.879 My brother claims to live a modest and frugal life, so tell me, 15:34.880 --> 15:38.719 where did all this money come from? 15:38.720 --> 15:42.999 Furthermore, shop attendants have identified those who frequented the hidden chambers, 15:43.000 --> 15:47.880 including Minister Dou and Minister Mu. 15:49.360 --> 15:53.639 This is a complete distortion of facts, slandering a prince and senior ministers. 15:53.640 --> 15:58.159 I implore a thorough investigation to uncover the true instigator and restore justice! 15:58.160 --> 16:00.119 Those who lose the people's trust lose the throne. 16:00.120 --> 16:03.519 Minister Dou, it seems you still don't understand the situation. 16:03.520 --> 16:04.839 The public outrage is palpable. 16:04.840 --> 16:08.360 I advise you to refrain from opposing the will of the people. 16:09.400 --> 16:12.519 This scroll is filled with the signatures of the people. 16:12.520 --> 16:15.920 It represents the voice of the masses. 16:21.880 --> 16:23.559 This petition demands 16:23.560 --> 16:27.559 a full investigation into the secret contracts, factionalism, embezzlement, and bribery. 16:27.560 --> 16:29.159 The people want the truth. 16:29.160 --> 16:31.239 Those guilty must be punished, and the innocent released. 16:31.240 --> 16:34.999 Royal family members or high-ranking officials, all will be treated equally without exception. 16:35.000 --> 16:39.960 Minister Dou and Minister Mu, what do you think? 16:40.680 --> 16:43.599 To save his son-in-law, Dou Shiying has slandered 16:43.600 --> 16:47.479 a prince and manipulated public opinion. 16:47.480 --> 16:53.199 Such interference in court affairs is treacherous. 16:53.200 --> 16:58.680 If his plan succeeds, the royal family's dignity and authority will be utterly lost. 16:59.960 --> 17:01.839 Interfering in court affairs? 17:01.840 --> 17:05.480 Your Majesty, are you referring to others or yourself? 17:06.200 --> 17:09.039 If royal matters are solely for royal hands to handle, 17:09.040 --> 17:11.039 why don't you step aside and let me take your place? 17:11.040 --> 17:16.400 I could try drafting some imperial edicts, and reviewing the memorials too. 17:18.880 --> 17:22.359 You've always stayed away from politics, living a carefree life. 17:22.360 --> 17:26.319 What brought you here to Yuxi Palace to make such jokes? 17:26.320 --> 17:29.440 I'm here because I'm concerned about Youting. 17:30.160 --> 17:33.399 He's been so viciously slandered 17:33.400 --> 17:37.239 that the royal family's dignity has already been trampled. 17:37.240 --> 17:40.719 Investigate it! A full and thoroughinvestigation is the only way 17:40.720 --> 17:44.200 to restore the royal family's honor. 17:48.000 --> 17:50.199 Her Highness makes a valid point. 17:50.200 --> 17:54.799 The Censorate suggests postponing the conviction of Song Mo for now. 17:54.800 --> 17:58.479 After all, the alleged faction list circulating among the public is unreliable. 17:58.480 --> 18:03.719 However, the bribery ledgers presented by Song Mo are verifiable. 18:03.720 --> 18:05.119 To pacify the people, 18:05.120 --> 18:08.039 I propose using the ledgers as a basis to conduct a thorough investigation 18:08.040 --> 18:09.839 of the Six Ministries, 18:09.840 --> 18:12.959 focusing specifically on the Revenue Office of the Ministry of Revenue in Diannan 18:12.960 --> 18:15.800 and the Qingli Department of the Ministry of Works. 18:25.320 --> 18:28.919 Liang Jifang, along with the Ministry of Justice and the Censorate, 18:28.920 --> 18:30.479 has been investigating for days. 18:30.480 --> 18:32.919 If they keep digging, 18:32.920 --> 18:37.119 Youting's factional bribery at the jewelry shop will become undeniable, 18:37.120 --> 18:40.559 and Song Mo's arson will appear justified. 18:40.560 --> 18:44.839 That couple from Yizhi Hall really played their cards well. 18:44.840 --> 18:51.279 Your Majesty, at this point, there's no way to walk away unscathed. 18:51.280 --> 18:56.120 For the sake of the bigger picture, this matter must not implicate His Highness. 18:57.000 --> 19:01.959 Are you suggesting we offer Liang Jifang a new scapegoat? 19:01.960 --> 19:06.679 Those brokering deals and forging alliances at the jewelry shop were led by Dou Shishu. 19:06.680 --> 19:10.400 The horse market trade was also handled by him. 19:11.200 --> 19:17.560 I recall you had a falling out with Dou Shishu over your son. 19:18.440 --> 19:21.479 This is a grave matter, and I would never dare seek personal revenge. 19:21.480 --> 19:23.639 I'm only speaking the truth. 19:23.640 --> 19:26.599 Aside from Minister Dou, no one else can take the fall for this. 19:26.600 --> 19:30.600 Everything I've done is for His Highness and you, Your Majesty. 19:32.960 --> 19:36.919 Dou Shishu was elevated by Princess Shude. 19:36.920 --> 19:41.319 Since his end is near, let her accompany him. 19:41.320 --> 19:43.400 So he won't be lonely. 19:51.240 --> 19:54.119 Master, it's been a while since I've seen you dress up so nicely. 19:54.120 --> 19:57.480 Are you meeting someone important today? 20:01.400 --> 20:07.320 In life, one should come and go with dignity. 20:08.680 --> 20:11.040 Don't follow me. 20:14.840 --> 20:17.320 [Soar Straight Up] 20:25.640 --> 20:30.159 May the heavens bless the Dou family of Beilou with high rank and noble titles, 20:30.160 --> 20:32.519 and generations of prosperity. 20:32.520 --> 20:35.959 May our light shine across the land and all directions, 20:35.960 --> 20:39.759 and may it last through countless ages to come. 20:39.760 --> 20:41.999 You've built yourself a personal Wenyuan Pavilion. 20:42.000 --> 20:45.960 You're so obsessed with the Grand Secretary's seat that it's driven you mad. 20:50.920 --> 20:52.920 Didn't you say you had quit it? 20:55.400 --> 21:01.519 Whenever I've found myself struggling, I've always come here to sit, 21:01.520 --> 21:06.119 to remind myself to exercise restraint, and to endure. 21:06.120 --> 21:11.440 Only when I sit in that chair will I finally relax. 21:12.240 --> 21:16.479 Now, I'm just one step away. 21:16.480 --> 21:19.760 I suppose you've realized you won't make it. 21:25.000 --> 21:27.759 Mu Chuan intentionally left a trail, 21:27.760 --> 21:30.879 accusing me of forming factions under Prince Qing's name. 21:30.880 --> 21:33.720 The empress is cutting me loose like dead weight. 21:34.280 --> 21:37.279 She wants me to take the fall. 21:37.280 --> 21:39.759 You've always been careful and calculating. 21:39.760 --> 21:44.279 After being their tool for so long, did you really think you'd never be discarded? 21:44.280 --> 21:46.240 I don't buy it. 21:48.160 --> 21:52.720 Back then, the three Zhuge brothers each chose to serve Wei, Han, and Wu. 21:53.720 --> 21:56.559 If I hadn't positioned myself as the sacrificial pawn, 21:56.560 --> 22:00.919 how could I have pushed Shiying to the opposite side? 22:00.920 --> 22:07.279 I'm the one who submitted the evidence pointing at me to the court under his name. 22:07.280 --> 22:09.999 He will appear as someone who upheld righteousness over familial bonds. 22:10.000 --> 22:15.760 With that act, he'll win the crown prince's trust and respect. 22:16.680 --> 22:21.759 When the next regime rises, he will undoubtedly be among the key officials. 22:21.760 --> 22:26.800 The future generations of the Dou family will claim that seat. 22:34.600 --> 22:36.719 By order of Her Majesty, 22:36.720 --> 22:40.880 arrest the traitor Dou Shishu immediately! 22:45.680 --> 22:50.199 Back then, I helped you because your talent deserved recognition. 22:50.200 --> 22:55.119 If you abandon this path and turn back now, I'll plead with His Majesty to spare your life. 22:55.120 --> 22:56.919 I'll tell him to exile you to a quiet place. 22:56.920 --> 22:59.960 You can focus on writing and leave all this behind. 23:03.080 --> 23:08.279 There's nothing you can do to save me now, Your Highness. 23:08.280 --> 23:14.119 But I can still do one last thing for you, 23:14.120 --> 23:16.640 Your Highness. 23:25.240 --> 23:26.559 Put your swords down. 23:26.560 --> 23:28.760 I want to see Dou Shiying. 23:35.680 --> 23:37.559 Fifth Brother, put the dagger down. 23:37.560 --> 23:38.839 They're making you the scapegoat. 23:38.840 --> 23:40.439 I'll go with you to the Censorate and explain everything. 23:40.440 --> 23:42.759 Stop pretending! 23:42.760 --> 23:46.239 Dou Shiying, I must have been blind to trust you. 23:46.240 --> 23:49.359 I never imagined you were the one gathering evidence against me all along 23:49.360 --> 23:52.719 You've been waiting to betray me in exchange for wealth and power. 23:52.720 --> 23:57.359 After all I've done to support and look out for you, 23:57.360 --> 23:59.999 I never thought you'd turn out to be an ungrateful snake! 24:00.000 --> 24:02.359 - Fifth Brother, what... - Shut up! 24:02.360 --> 24:07.120 Our brotherhood ended when I stabbed you that day. 24:07.680 --> 24:10.239 Dou Shishu is taking a royal hostage. 24:10.240 --> 24:12.039 Execute him on the spot. 24:12.040 --> 24:13.719 Archers, fire! 24:13.720 --> 24:15.680 No! Don't shoot! 24:23.320 --> 24:25.720 Fifth Brother! 24:32.120 --> 24:37.439 Yizhen, stop fighting the empress. 24:37.440 --> 24:40.319 Go back to your fief. 24:40.320 --> 24:42.759 When the Furong plums ripen, 24:42.760 --> 24:46.840 enjoy them for me. 24:50.080 --> 24:55.360 Yuanji! 25:04.400 --> 25:06.360 Yuanji... 25:07.040 --> 25:09.680 Yuanji... 25:13.920 --> 25:17.959 The traitor Dou Shishu abused his power and embezzled the people's wealth. 25:17.960 --> 25:19.399 His crimes were unforgivable. 25:19.400 --> 25:21.039 He has been executed. 25:21.040 --> 25:23.039 The stolen funds have been confiscated into the national treasury 25:23.040 --> 25:24.479 as a warning to others. 25:24.480 --> 25:27.760 Yes! Yes! Well done! 25:28.520 --> 25:31.600 - He deserved it! - Yes! 26:02.960 --> 26:06.279 He spent his entire life clawing and fighting. 26:06.280 --> 26:11.960 In the end, all he left was this room. 26:14.680 --> 26:18.279 This quote from Zhuge Liang, 26:18.280 --> 26:23.039 it showed that he had paved another path for you from the very start. 26:23.040 --> 26:28.639 Fifth Brother wanted to push me toward the crown prince 26:28.640 --> 26:32.999 to secure our family's future. 26:33.000 --> 26:38.079 If I had stepped up sooner and shouldered the burden, 26:38.080 --> 26:44.160 maybe he wouldn't have taken every wrong step until there was no turning back. 26:46.240 --> 26:50.720 Shiying, you have to move on. 26:51.200 --> 26:54.439 Whether it's taking up the post in Chanxi, 26:54.440 --> 26:58.079 or resigning to leave the court altogether, 26:58.080 --> 27:00.280 you have to make a decision. 27:02.520 --> 27:05.279 Fifth Brother is gone. 27:05.280 --> 27:10.880 Prince Qing and the empress won't let our family go so easily. 27:14.880 --> 27:17.199 I can't run. 27:17.200 --> 27:21.359 I have to protect the dozens of lives in this household. 27:21.360 --> 27:23.519 The crown prince has promised to protect us. 27:23.520 --> 27:25.399 Precisely because of that, 27:25.400 --> 27:31.279 I can't allow him to be accused of favoritism at this critical time. 27:31.280 --> 27:33.000 Good. 27:34.240 --> 27:36.639 Take my commendation for disaster relief efforts, 27:36.640 --> 27:39.279 along with the support of the Ji'an Cui clan's students and retainers, 27:39.280 --> 27:40.999 we will submit a petition to the court. 27:41.000 --> 27:42.319 Yes. 27:42.320 --> 27:45.639 And include Shougu's success in cultivating potatoes to combat famine, 27:45.640 --> 27:49.599 and Song Mo's achievements in quelling the pirates. 27:49.600 --> 27:55.399 Let the officials see clearly how much our family has contributed to the court. 27:55.400 --> 27:57.320 I'll draft the petition now. 28:07.640 --> 28:09.759 "By order of Her Majesty, 28:09.760 --> 28:11.999 Song Mo is guilty of negligence and dereliction of duty, 28:12.000 --> 28:14.759 leading to the incident on Changle Street. 28:14.760 --> 28:17.839 However, in consideration of his past merits in suppressing bandits, 28:17.840 --> 28:19.959 he is spared from torture in the imperial prison. 28:19.960 --> 28:25.400 He is to be confined in Yizhi Hall immediately, and await further punishment." 28:27.000 --> 28:29.239 Your uncle is dead. 28:29.240 --> 28:34.159 And Princess Shude has quietly returned to her fief. 28:34.160 --> 28:36.279 When His Majesty wakes, 28:36.280 --> 28:39.319 the political landscape will undergo major changes. 28:39.320 --> 28:43.399 If Fifth Uncle had chosen the right alliance, he could've reached the pinnacle of power. 28:43.400 --> 28:46.600 Even though we couldn't expose the forces behind him, 28:47.480 --> 28:50.720 we've at least fought against fate. 28:53.440 --> 28:59.799 As for when His Majesty will wake, or whether he'll still care about you when he does, 28:59.800 --> 29:01.879 I don't dare to risk it. 29:01.880 --> 29:06.319 I'd hoped to time things right, that at the very least, 29:06.320 --> 29:09.600 I could still sit with you and watch the magnolias bloom. 29:10.680 --> 29:12.919 But with all the heavy snow this year, 29:12.920 --> 29:18.759 who knows if the branches have been broken under its weight? 29:18.760 --> 29:23.519 If you're in the mood, I'll have them bring out our cloaks, 29:23.520 --> 29:25.479 and we can go see for ourselves. 29:25.480 --> 29:27.440 Forget it. 29:29.080 --> 29:33.919 I've been stripped of my title, and am now confined to the estate. 29:33.920 --> 29:37.559 Lu Ming and General Yan have also been detained. 29:37.560 --> 29:41.639 The entire area is surrounded by the Shadow Guard. 29:41.640 --> 29:44.119 Having the Shadow Guard around isn't all bad. 29:44.120 --> 29:47.279 It's restrictive, yes, but it's also a form of protection. 29:47.280 --> 29:50.240 At least Yizhi Hall is safe. 29:52.000 --> 29:56.879 After so many years of planning, we've reached this point. 29:56.880 --> 30:00.520 We've done everything we could. 30:01.560 --> 30:03.959 From here on out, 30:03.960 --> 30:06.440 let's just wait for the flowers to bloom, 30:07.560 --> 30:10.120 and enjoy some quiet days together. 30:13.000 --> 30:14.800 Your hand. 30:28.880 --> 30:33.799 The court is in turmoil over selecting a new commander for the Imperial Guard. 30:33.800 --> 30:38.759 It's the perfect time to strike while everyone is distracted. 30:38.760 --> 30:41.519 My troops in Liaodong are not ready for it. 30:41.520 --> 30:45.360 Wouldn't moving now be premature? 30:46.480 --> 30:49.759 During the Xuanwu Gate Incident, Emperor Taizong used only 800 men. 30:49.760 --> 30:51.159 Victory isn't about numbers; 30:51.160 --> 30:55.120 it's about timing. 31:00.600 --> 31:02.999 Commander Song, what do you think? 31:03.000 --> 31:07.320 As long as Song Mo remains alive, he will always be a threat. 31:08.320 --> 31:10.919 That has been my concern as well. 31:10.920 --> 31:12.519 The poison has seeped into Song Mo's bones. 31:12.520 --> 31:14.719 His body is gravely weakened. 31:14.720 --> 31:17.719 His allies are already imprisoned. 31:17.720 --> 31:19.759 He's in no position to stage any significant resistance. 31:19.760 --> 31:24.199 Song Mo and Dou Zhao may seem subdued now, but it's all a facade. 31:24.200 --> 31:26.399 They must have something else planned. 31:26.400 --> 31:27.999 I've assigned people to watch them closely. 31:28.000 --> 31:30.079 I'll will find another opportunity to deal with them. 31:30.080 --> 31:32.799 I'll wait for your good news. 31:32.800 --> 31:37.240 To launch an uprising, all we need now is a favorable wind. 31:45.080 --> 31:49.239 Teacher, you seem hostile toward Song Han. 31:49.240 --> 31:51.239 Is it because of Dou Zhao? 31:51.240 --> 31:53.279 Dou Zhao and I are soul mates. 31:53.280 --> 31:56.479 Your Highness, I trust you can see that clearly. 31:56.480 --> 32:02.239 As for Song Han, he's short-sighted and driven by personal grudges. 32:02.240 --> 32:03.919 He's incapable of seeing the bigger picture. 32:03.920 --> 32:07.479 Whatever he's told you, I don't care. 32:07.480 --> 32:09.360 You're magnanimous. 32:11.800 --> 32:13.800 But aren't you worried? 32:14.440 --> 32:18.239 The Duke of Ying may be under house arrest, but he hasn't been convicted. 32:18.240 --> 32:21.319 And Grand Secretary Liang Jifang is the Crown Prince's mentor. 32:21.320 --> 32:25.319 Praise virtues in public, and correct faults in private. 32:25.320 --> 32:27.839 Either Song Han mistreats his brother and sister-in-law, 32:27.840 --> 32:29.519 causing Song Mo to die from the poison, 32:29.520 --> 32:33.719 or Song Mo kills his brother in a fit of rage while defending his wife. 32:33.720 --> 32:35.319 Let the blood spill as it may, 32:35.320 --> 32:38.799 it will remain a private affair of the Duke of Ying's household 32:38.800 --> 32:41.759 and won't implicate Your Highness. 32:41.760 --> 32:43.879 The Shadow Guard are keeping a tight watch. 32:43.880 --> 32:46.719 They won't escape. 32:46.720 --> 32:49.079 Instead of worrying about Song Mo and Dou Zhao, 32:49.080 --> 32:52.359 you should focus on His Majesty's condition. 32:52.360 --> 32:55.799 If His Majesty wakes and issues a new decree or a final edict, 32:55.800 --> 32:59.640 that would pose a real threat to your plans. 33:06.680 --> 33:08.719 Everyone will get their share. 33:08.720 --> 33:10.399 Don't worry. 33:10.400 --> 33:12.439 - There's enough for everyone. - Thank you, Your Highness. 33:12.440 --> 33:15.519 Your Highness, you don't have to serve them porridge yourself. 33:15.520 --> 33:18.479 You should've left these chores to the servants. 33:18.480 --> 33:19.919 - Easy. - Thank you, Your Highness. 33:19.920 --> 33:22.439 I often did these things myself when I was a merchant. 33:22.440 --> 33:24.759 Now that I'm a princess, it's all the more my duty to do so. 33:24.760 --> 33:27.839 It's the least I can do to live up to the title His Majesty has given me. 33:27.840 --> 33:30.559 - Here. - Your love for the people 33:30.560 --> 33:32.800 is a blessing for the realm. 33:35.400 --> 33:41.199 Especially since doing this feels like atonement for Muyu's bloodshed. 33:41.200 --> 33:44.999 Only by helping others can I find a little peace of mind. 33:45.000 --> 33:46.999 Next. Here. 33:47.000 --> 33:49.839 - Thank you, Your Highness. - Careful. 33:49.840 --> 33:51.359 - Thank you, Your Highness. - You're welcome. 33:51.360 --> 33:53.640 Thank you, Your... 33:57.200 --> 33:59.000 Wait! 34:02.400 --> 34:05.159 What's wrong, Your Highness? 34:05.160 --> 34:07.399 You don't look well. 34:07.400 --> 34:09.680 Are you feeling unwell? 34:11.400 --> 34:13.200 I'm fine. 34:14.920 --> 34:17.359 He's just a coachman who can't fight. 34:17.360 --> 34:23.600 You've spent all this time and manpower, yet you still haven't found him. 34:24.840 --> 34:27.159 What's the point of having you guards? 34:27.160 --> 34:30.479 That coachman is as slippery as an eel. 34:30.480 --> 34:33.880 He might've already escaped outside the city. 34:34.600 --> 34:37.360 Should we expand the search... 34:38.280 --> 34:40.240 to the outskirts? 34:42.160 --> 34:44.999 Are you teaching me how to do my job? 34:45.000 --> 34:48.280 I'm sorry! Please punish me! 34:52.240 --> 34:54.040 Your Highness. 34:58.480 --> 35:00.920 You should've told me you were coming. 35:02.640 --> 35:06.559 Your hands are freezing and you look pale. 35:06.560 --> 35:08.160 Come. 35:12.200 --> 35:14.000 I will take my leave. 35:16.320 --> 35:19.599 Did something happen today? 35:19.600 --> 35:21.839 Her Highness almost fainted when she was distributing porridge 35:21.840 --> 35:24.280 - at the charity stall today. - Manager Su. 35:26.520 --> 35:28.399 You may leave us for now. 35:28.400 --> 35:30.200 Yes, Your Highness. 35:32.280 --> 35:35.040 Manager Su exaggerated. 35:35.720 --> 35:41.400 I might have stood for too long and gotten tired, that's why I almost fainted. 35:46.120 --> 35:50.519 My mother used to be like that. 35:50.520 --> 35:54.480 Many illnesses aren't obvious at first. 35:55.640 --> 35:58.159 No, I'll call the imperial physician. 35:58.160 --> 35:59.439 It's fine. 35:59.440 --> 36:01.520 I really am fine. 36:02.760 --> 36:05.600 I know my health. 36:11.040 --> 36:12.839 All right. 36:12.840 --> 36:14.640 I trust you. 36:16.680 --> 36:18.119 Sirs, you've worked hard. 36:18.120 --> 36:20.319 This is some wine from the Duke of Ying's residence, 36:20.320 --> 36:22.520 a small token of appreciation for you both. 36:25.880 --> 36:28.799 Excellent wine! Please thank the commander for us. 36:28.800 --> 36:30.600 Thank you. 36:31.240 --> 36:32.999 We couldn't get rid of them before, 36:33.000 --> 36:35.039 and now with the Shadow Guard keeping watch, 36:35.040 --> 36:37.960 it's nearly impossible to touch them. 36:44.280 --> 36:48.600 I noticed you haven't eaten all day, so I made you some sweet soup. 37:02.560 --> 37:06.279 Didn't Her Majesty ask you to keep Song Mo alive? 37:06.280 --> 37:09.639 Her Highness is probably worried about Song Mo's old allies. 37:09.640 --> 37:10.959 A display of needless compassion. 37:10.960 --> 37:12.679 The Tengxiang Guard is under my command now. 37:12.680 --> 37:14.919 Why should I fear a few defeated stragglers? 37:14.920 --> 37:18.039 Once I build strong ties with the influential nobles and establish a solid foundation, 37:18.040 --> 37:21.640 even Prince Qing won't be able to control me easily. 37:22.520 --> 37:24.079 Naturally. 37:24.080 --> 37:26.999 Maintaining connections with the nobles is costly, though. 37:27.000 --> 37:30.479 Sister Zhao controls 70 percent of the profits from our family's businesses. 37:30.480 --> 37:34.600 If she loosens her hold, we'd have more funds. 37:35.400 --> 37:39.040 Ansu, I know what you're trying to say. 37:39.800 --> 37:46.080 You want to use that money to convince me not to harm Dou Zhao, don't you? 37:53.480 --> 37:55.599 But Dou Zhao is cunning and resourceful. 37:55.600 --> 37:58.439 If I don't move against her, she'll come after us. 37:58.440 --> 38:00.799 Sister Zhao isn't like that. 38:00.800 --> 38:02.879 Back in Futing, she helped me so much. 38:02.880 --> 38:07.440 When my family had nothing, she was the one who stood by my side. 38:08.880 --> 38:13.320 I'm starting to feel jealous of her, seeing how much you worry about her. 38:15.360 --> 38:19.439 Muyu, promise me you won't hurt Sister Zhao. 38:19.440 --> 38:21.359 I'll talk to her about adjusting the profits. 38:21.360 --> 38:24.760 I'll make her see reason and stop going against you. 38:33.800 --> 38:36.960 I need to go inside to discuss some family matters. 38:43.320 --> 38:45.479 My family shops sell goods provided by Dou Zhao. 38:45.480 --> 38:49.839 I intend to finalize this contract with her to negotiate a profit adjustment today. 38:49.840 --> 38:53.079 If you refuse to let me through, and the business suffers as a result, 38:53.080 --> 38:55.639 you'll have to answer for it. 38:55.640 --> 38:57.559 I... 38:57.560 --> 39:00.399 The Commander of Tengxiang Guard and I made a deal 39:00.400 --> 39:01.999 to convince Dou Zhao on adjusting the profits. 39:02.000 --> 39:05.039 If you don't believe me, you're welcome to confirm it with the commander. 39:05.040 --> 39:09.800 But if you're held accountable for this, don't say I didn't warn you. 39:13.800 --> 39:15.119 Let her through! 39:15.120 --> 39:16.559 Please come, Your Highness. 39:16.560 --> 39:18.360 This way, please. 39:21.960 --> 39:25.159 I never thought Song Han would trust you this much. 39:25.160 --> 39:28.039 Even in a house so tightly guarded that not even a fly can enter, 39:28.040 --> 39:30.120 he let you in. 39:31.040 --> 39:36.679 Sister Zhao, back when my family's merchant ship was seized in Futing, 39:36.680 --> 39:41.119 it was you who paid to calm the situation, and even covered the capital. 39:41.120 --> 39:43.639 That's how my family business came to be what they are today. 39:43.640 --> 39:46.319 You've always had a clear perspective on things, 39:46.320 --> 39:50.439 but lately, I've encountered some thingsthat I just can't figure out. 39:50.440 --> 39:52.999 My mind is in turmoil, so I came to seek your advice. 39:53.000 --> 39:54.919 What should I do? 39:54.920 --> 39:59.599 Ansu, I know you really love Song Han, 39:59.600 --> 40:01.679 but you need to see him for who he really is. 40:01.680 --> 40:04.839 What he's doing is treason. 40:04.840 --> 40:07.280 There will be no good end for him. 40:09.600 --> 40:14.239 I understand what you're saying, but now that I'm a princess, 40:14.240 --> 40:16.759 every word and move of mine is being watched. 40:16.760 --> 40:19.040 I don't have the freedom to act as I wish. 40:23.000 --> 40:26.879 If you need help, go to Chen Jia. 40:26.880 --> 40:28.279 He'll know what to do. 40:28.280 --> 40:30.080 Chen Jia? 40:37.760 --> 40:40.639 Didn't she say she was just going to discuss the profit adjustment? 40:40.640 --> 40:44.320 Why hasn't Her Highness returned at this hour? 40:48.800 --> 40:50.159 Don't be afraid. 40:50.160 --> 40:53.639 I didn't bring you here to harm you. 40:53.640 --> 40:57.640 I just want to know why you ran the moment you saw me. 41:02.880 --> 41:07.399 Don't blame me for being ruthless if you don't tell the truth. 41:07.400 --> 41:09.639 I'll talk! I'll talk! 41:09.640 --> 41:11.039 It's Lord Song Han. 41:11.040 --> 41:12.959 He's hunting me. 41:12.960 --> 41:16.280 It's because... because of Young Master Anping! 41:35.040 --> 41:37.039 When the poison takes effect, he doesn't recognize anyone. 41:37.040 --> 41:39.279 His Grace has locked himself in the bathhouse. 41:39.280 --> 41:41.560 He won't open the door for anyone. 41:45.400 --> 41:50.720 Yantang, it's me, Shougu.