Blossom (2024) s01e24 Episode Script
Episode 24
1
By His Majesty's decree,
Minister of War, Wang Xing Yi,
has been found negligent in his duties,
leading to grave consequences.
He is hereby stripped of his title
as Grand Academician
of the Wenyan Pavilion
and demoted to Inspector of
the Shengtian Prefecture Patrol Office.
His daughter, Wang Ying Xue,
who is guilty of murder,
the punishment would ordinarily
be immediate execution.
However, considering
her descent into madness,
she is permitted to end her life
within her residence.
Thus decreed.
Thank you for your mercy, Your Majesty.
Ming.
Ming, look at me.
Ming.
-Good girl, Ming.
-My Lady,
with so many men in the Dou family,
you shouldn't have been
the one to do this.
The imperial decree has been issued.
Let me be the one to
play the villain this time.
Ming
Someone is here to see you.
It's you.
You've come to gloat, haven't you?
First, you brought misfortune
to your mother,
and then to your sister.
A bringer of misfortune!
So many people wish you were dead,
why won't you just
grant them their wish?
Give me back my daughter!
Bring Ming back to me!
In just a few days,
it will be my mother's birthday.
From the day your mother hanged herself,
I knew you'd never let me go.
I let you go a long time ago.
It's you who refuses to let yourself go.
You hate me to your very core
because my existence
is a constant reminder
of how your closest friend
took her own life because of you,
how you stole her place,
and ruined the happiness
she should have had.
You may be cruel,
but you're still human.
Even you can't escape the guilt gnawing
at your conscience
or the fear of divine retribution.
All these times
you've tried to kill me
weren't about me at all,
they were your desperate attempts
to escape the torment
of your sleepless nights.
That's not true!
Since ancient times, men have taken
wives and concubines, it's only natural.
Your mother was the one
who couldn't accept it.
She killed herself.
It wasn't my fault.
This is between you and my mother.
Let her be the one
to settle it with you now.
Zhao Gu Qiu!
I'm not afraid of you!
I've been living just fine.
What's done is done.
Killing you won't undo the past.
These flower petals won't kill you,
but I hope this lesson will make you
feel the same pain my mother endured
and bring some solace to her spirit.
(Blossom)
(Episode 24)
Shou Gu.
Father.
My marriage with Ying Xue was a mistake.
First, I wronged you and your mother,
and later, I wronged her and Ming.
Ming had a kind heart.
She didn't deserve this ending.
Ming suffered because of
the discord between her parents.
That's why she fell
so recklessly into love.
I often wonder
where I went wrong.
Perhaps I should never
have entered officialdom,
or maybe I should never
have left the capital.
If I hadn't,
I might now be enjoying
the blooming magnolias with joy.
You can't hold onto the past.
But
I'm forever trapped in the past now.
Your visit
makes me feel a little better.
After going through this ordeal,
I feel the need to tell you this.
Seize the moment,
cherish those you love.
Don't end up like me,
consumed by a lifetime of regret
When did you get here?
I've been here
since you stepped into
Wang Ying Xue's room.
This is between you and my mother.
Let her be the one
to settle it with you now.
It's such a shame about Ming.
The more wonderful something is,
the more strength
it takes to protect it.
Shou Gu,
I will always keep you safe
and ensure your peace.
I know.
Let's go home.
Alright, let's go home.
Marquis of Jining's Residence
has been confiscated.
He's been demoted to a commoner.
-You want this?
-Sir! Sir!
Catch! Go on!
Please give me back the painting.
Screw you!
Out of all this gold and treasure,
you only want a painting?
What, is there some
secret map hidden in it?
You want it?
Fine, beg for it properly.
Get on your knees now.
Come on.
Do it.
Please
What? I can't hear you.
Louder!
Please, I'm begging you!
Please give me back the painting.
Please!
Scram!
Go!
The entire city went into chaos
just because a token was lost.
The deployment order
reached the Warden's Office long ago.
What were those useless
officials even doing?
Your Majesty, I failed
to maintain order in my household,
which led to this disaster.
I humbly request punishment.
Don't take everything upon yourself.
This is a failure
of the capital's defenses.
Whatever happened within your family
couldn't have caused such an uproar.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
I will immediately coordinate
with the Six Ministries
and the Censorate
to conduct a thorough investigation.
I'll present the details
of the negligence to the court
for Your Majesty's review.
Approved.
The southern city under Duke of Ying's
watch remains peaceful.
Your family
has lived up to my expectations.
But, Yan Tang,
I'll need you to take charge
of the aftermath as well.
Duke of Ying has done a meticulous job,
even sparing his personal guards
to assist at my residence
in fighting off the bandits.
His attention to detail
is truly admirable.
I'll need to learn much from him.
Dealing with the immediate
aftermath is important,
but eliminating the bandits will
resolve the problem once and for all.
I am willing to lead the troops
to eradicate this threat
and ease Your Majesty's concerns.
Your Majesty,
while the bandits' force has weakened,
they are cunning.
Duke of Ying has been away
from the battlefield for some time.
I propose
entrusting the command to Lord Song,
allowing me to act as his advisor
and provide strategic support.
Very well.
Song Yi Chun will temporarily
oversee the Warden's Office
to handle the capital's recovery.
Yan Tang will lead the Imperial Guards
and 3,000 elite troops,
departing in three days.
Shi Shu will serve
as Acting Minister of War
and coordinate reinforcements.
Until the bandits
are completely eradicated,
none of you are
to return to the capital.
As Your Majesty commands.
Those bandits burned down
half the northern district.
If Song Mo continues
investigating along their trail,
he'll eventually
uncover inconsistencies.
It's better to send him off
to deal with the bandits
while I remain behind to oversee.
Even if he uncovers any clues,
it won't reach His Majesty.
You really are a master strategist.
Your foresight is remarkable.
This way, no matter how deep he digs,
we have nothing to fear.
General, is Her Ladyship coming
to see you off?
This isn't my first campaign.
There's no need for all that ceremony.
Let's depart then.
The auspicious hour hasn't arrived yet.
Right, right, of course.
Yan Tang.
Didn't you say yesterday
you wouldn't come to see me off?
I'm here to see the army off.
Liar.
Why did you come from outside the city?
Tell me the truth.
I went to Wanfo Temple
to pray for your safety.
The bandits are ruthless.
You must come back unharmed
and triumphant.
You left the city early in the morning
just to get me a blessing?
Aren't you worried I might
draw an ill-fated lot?
Don't worry about that.
I already removed
every bad lot from the jar.
What's left are only blessings
of good fortune.
What an overbearing worshiper you are.
Heavens watch over us.
God already knows what I wish for.
May you remain in love
and together for a lifetime.
This isn't right. You need one
about safety and success.
-Draw another.
-Why not?
I'm not drawing again. I want this one.
My love, will this fortune come true?
We'll see when you're back.
Don't brush me off.
If you keep me guessing,
I'll be distracted, always overthinking.
On the battlefield, that distraction
could cost me an arm, a leg,
or worse, my head.
Don't say such things!
You're about to go to battle,
don't you know better than
to speak ill omens?
So, that's a yes?
God is watching.
You can't take it back.
You must return safe and sound.
I'll be waiting for you.
General!
General, Minister Dou has given
the order, it's time to move out.
Form up!
Form up!
Listen to my command, Imperial Guards!
Yes, sir!
Today we march to battle.
We will not return
until every bandit is eradicated!
Eradicate the bandits!
Eradicate the bandits!
Eradicate the bandits!
Move out!
May we remain in love
and together for a lifetime.
(Zuixian Tower)
Isn't this the Marquis?
How about a drink at the shop today?
Not today.
You still haven't paid off
what you owe us.
I'll pay you back
once I sell some paintings.
No money?
Guards!
Search him for money.
Wait
Here, I have some here.
Here you go.
Here.
This is all you have?
Go to hell!
Let's go.
It's the Marquis. Follow him.
Well, if it isn't the Marquis.
How did you end up in such a state?
Master Zhou.
That painting in your hand
might still be worth something.
I'll consider it a charity
and take it off your hand.
I can't sell you
this painting, Master Zhou.
Beggars can't be choosers.
Give it to me!
-Master Zhou
-Get it!
Please let it go, Master Zhou!
Let me go! Give it back!
Let me go!
Oh, it's the Marchioness.
She's dead because of you.
What's the use of keeping it?
Tell you what, I'll do you a favor
and burn it as an offering to her.
No! Mr. Zhou, you can't burn it.
Please don't burn it.
I'm begging you, please don't burn it!
Master Zhou!
Please show some mercy!
I'll kowtow to you!
-Please don't burn it.
-What use is regret now?
No No, Master Zhou!
Please, Master Zhou!
Please don't burn
the painting, Master Zhou!
No!
Let go!
Darn you!
Beat him up!
Let's go!
It's alright, Ming. Don't be afraid.
Come on, just let me see it.
-My Lord.
-No.
Ming,
I miss you so much.
I knocked out my sister
and married you in her place.
Tomorrow, the world will mock me
for being shameless
and betraying my family.
Please visit me in my dreams.
Is this the one
you were painting last time?
Do you like it?
I love it.
Ming
Ming
My Lord.
It's time to take your medicine.
The doctor said
your cold hasn't gone away.
Yet you still insist on painting here.
Ming.
Is it really you?
I'm not dreaming, am I?
How?
What nonsense are you talking about?
I was just away for five minutes.
What's wrong with you?
You had a nightmare?
Ming.
Ming, I don't want to be
separated from you again.
I don't want to leave you ever again.
I won't.
I won't leave you.
Ming, this is great.
It was just a nightmare.
We'll never be separated again.
Here.
Soon after the imperial edict
was issued,
a crazy warlock came to the residence
saying that he can cure her.
She just needs to do bows from the foot
to the top of the mountain every day.
Do a bow every three steps
and a kowtow every nine steps,
accompanied by the chanting of sutras
for 100 times.
Ming will then be free
from the pain of hell.
Once she heard that, she was sane again.
She just begged to come here.
It looks like
Mother has forgiven her.
Luckily, you begged for the grace
of His Majesty
to let her live out her life here.
May this help her atone her sins
and get rid of karma.
There are thousands of steps from
the foot to the top of the mountain.
It would take hours to walk to the top,
let alone doing a bow every three steps
and a kowtow every nine steps.
Can a woman brave the elements
and complete this feat in 999 days?
I'm afraid not.
There you go.
In Buddhism, there's a narrative
called endless hell.
It's the most miserable one
among the eight hells.
People who commit a
heinous crime will be sent there.
There is no hope
of getting out of it ever again.
Bandits attacked the residence.
I originally thought
your injury was physical.
I didn't expect it
to be a trouble of the mind.
Your mind is in a mess.
You can't sleep well lately
and have a lot dreams, right?
There's another matter.
I have a good friend
whose husband is away.
She kept having nightmares.
She dreamed that her husband
was ambushed in the woods.
So she wanted me
to interpret her dreams.
She asked me
if her husband would be safe.
But I'm not good at this.
Is the woods
somewhere near Jinxi?
Oh, no.
This is bad. This is so bad.
What's wrong?
This is bad.
Your good friend's husband
can't offend nasty people.
There will be a bloody disaster.
He will be dying soon.
That good friend of mine even dreamed
that someone cursed her husband.
In the end,
that person suffered a rotten mouth,
rotten stomach and rotten heart.
My Lady.
His Lordship has written back.
You won't admit defeat
but have a soft heart.
You're the one should be punished
for talking nonsense.
Get the horse ready.
You're not getting treated?
Bandits suddenly surrounded us.
His Lordship has been ambushed
in the woods.
What's wrong?
I'm here.
Yan Tang.
The more you care,
the more irrational you become.
You're all right.
Yes.
Yan Chao Qing said
you were ambushed in the woods.
I'm the one who ambushed them.
If these bandits needed you
to rescue them,
I'd better go home and do needlework.
Stop laughing.
Get lost.
Nonetheless,
I've been injured.
The man's archery skills were good.
Luckily, I'm wearing
my golden silk soft armor.
Did you hurt your hand?
You got hurt here?
Let's go back to the tent now.
I'll check the wound for you.
Massaging around the area more
can improve blood circulation.
The wound will heal faster.
Let me look at the wound.
You don't have to.
The wound is almost healed.
Just now you said it hurts.
Are you afraid that I'll be worried
because it's serious?
Let me see.
You don't need to.
Let me see.
What's wrong?
You're injured so badly.
Does it still hurt?
No. It's just a minor injury.
In the past, nobody at home cared
when I got hurt.
Now that you worry about me,
I realise minor injuries like this
can make you feel bad for me
for a long time.
Who feels bad for you?
Do you know what day it is today?
Today?
In the military,
one loses track of time.
It's your birthday today.
Longevity noodles.
Happy birthday.
You remember my birthday?
Of course.
Thank you.
Try it.
Slow down.
Is it good?
You made it.
Of course it's good.
Can you make the birthday boy's wish
come true today?
Let me hear it first.
You must not get angry.
I won't.
General.
This better be worth it.
-Otherwise
-I understand.
I'll run laps.
Go ahead.
General, the refugees we
rescued from the bandits are awake.
They want to thank you.
I got it.
Aren't you leaving?
Thank you for saving our lives.
Please get up.
It's just a small matter.
It's not worth mentioning.
Where do you live?
My husband is a military general.
He can get someone to send you home.
Thank you, My Lady.
Our village has been destroyed
by the Cangbei bandits.
We no longer have a place to live.
We were on our way to the capital
to find my sister.
Which part of the capital
does you sister live in?
My eldest daughter
is in the capital city.
But we don't know where exactly.
The capital is very big.
We don't know where to start.
Madam, I have
a place in the capital
that specializes in the business
of calligraphy and painting tools.
If you don't mind,
you can settle down temporarily
at my place
before you look for your daughter.
What do you think?
In that case,
thank you so much, My Lady.
Chan, quickly kowtow to Her Ladyship.
-Please get up.
-Please get up.
Thank you.
My Lady, My Lady.
My Lady, my mother wants me
to give you this hair pin.
Thank you, My Lady.
I can't take this.
General.
What's wrong?
General, Guanghe
Restaurant has sent a message.
What did it say?
In general,
it says that although we have won,
rumors are flying around
in the palace.
They say you're greedy for success
and refuse to obey the orders
from Ministry of War.
They even say that bandits
wreaked havoc this time
because Her Ladyship
showed off her dowry
and aroused the envy of the bandits.
So the people were dragged into this.
The innocent got into trouble
because of the wealth they possess.
What did His Majesty say?
Lord Dou tried to defend you.
His Majesty then promoted him
to deputy prime minister.
But His Majesty didn't say anything
about your rewards.
Praising people overtly
but criticizing them covertly.
Uncle Shi Shu is really good at that.
The news of you being greedy for success
must be released by him too
to evoke fear in His Majesty
towards your arbitrariness.
Regarding the upheaval in the capital
caused by bandits,
239 thieves
have been executed.
Our operation against bandits this time
has entrenched the perimeters
of the capital.
The seven gangs in three provinces
which add up to 8000 rogue bandits
are either dead or captured.
They have all been eliminated.
In future, if they dare
to wreak havoc in the capital
and hurt the people,
we'll scatter their corpses in the open
for the birds to peck at
to serve as a warning.
Good, good!
I've performed a ceremony
at Wanfo Temple
for victims of this calamity
and help their souls find peace.
From today onward,
we will refrain from drinking
and having fun for one month
to pray that their souls rest in peace.
For those whose household has suffered,
Zhaowen Bookstore and Miao Family Store
have prepared food and medicinal herbs.
They will be free of charge
and given out for three days.
Good, good!
Song Mo is bribing people
in the capital.
You should remove his power
as punishment, Father.
Your Majesty, but the wife
of Lord Song said
the giving-away of food and medicine
is from the grace of Your Majesty
and donation of the palace.
The display of grace and majesty
at the same time
has suppressed the atrocious crime
and stopped
the complaints of angry people.
They have also upheld my reputation.
But Father,
he is obviously trying to be clever
to please you and get what he wants.
If you're capable of that too,
I wouldn't need to worry so much.
In that case,
the banquet for Lord Song
It shouldn't be held.
When brought up previously,
nobody in the palace was vigilant.
Only Yan Tang was aware and attentive.
Issue an edict.
Over 1000 people were injured
or dead in the capital.
According to the mourning system
of the state,
everyone in the palace and all officials
are prohibited from drinking
and having fun for a month.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Father, why did you bring me here?
I found the best teacher in
the world to teach you music.
And this is also
for celebrating your birthday.
Come on.
Come in.
Come on.
Shu Yao.
Han.
This is for you.
It's for keeping you safe.
Father.
Han.
All these years,
your birthday presents
that I handed to you
were all made by her.
Do you understand the meaning of this?
I don't get it at all.
Han.
Han.
Han.
Brother.
What's wrong with your eyes?
Is it because of the smoke?
I'm fine, Brother.
Why are you here?
Your cat came to Yizhi Hall again.
I got him back for you.
It loves to wander off.
What are you burning?
I have a missing ornamental knot
on my belt.
So I got a maid to make one for me.
But it turned out very ugly.
So I decided to burn it.
My Lord, General Yan and
Commander Chen are here.
They said it's important.
Let them wait in the front hall.
-Yes, My Lord.
-Commander Chen?
You can say he's a pawn
I secretly planted
in the Criminal Investigation Bureau.
His name is Chen Jia.
Chen Jia?
I'll kill you.
Can I listen to your conversation?
-My Lord.
-My Lord.
We've investigated the house
in the northern ward.
The proprietor registered it
under a fake name.
We only know a woman by the surname Li
is living there now.
She usually plays zither.
Using the portrait,
I've identified her traits
and penchants.
I suspect she's a palace prostitute
who entered the criminal records
of the Court Entertainment Bureau
and died of illness long ago,
Li Yaoniang.
Li Yaoniang?
How long has she lived there?
20 years.
The neighbours say they often see
a palanquin behind the house.
We've identified it with the drawing.
It's the palanquin
from Duke of Ying's Residence.
Don't mind that. Keep talking.
I've found an old neighbour nearby
and verified it with him.
He has never had concubines.
I thought he was loyal to Mother.
Turns out he has
another family long ago.
My Lord, how can Duke of Ying
single-handedly rescue
and relocate a criminal
under the Duchess of Ying's nose
and hide her away for 20 years?
It's not easy.
Who does she usually associate with?
She rarely leaves the house.
Only on the first and fifteenth day
of every month,
she would go to Wanfo Temple
to pray and listen to sutras.
The temple abbot knows her.
Continue to monitor her.
Yes, My Lord.
We'll split up to investigate this.
I'll go to Wanfo Temple.
Okay.
No matter what happens,
you must remember
that you still have me.
You're a fool.
Licorice candied fruits
can't be taken with the spurges
in Mother's prescription.
It's you who made her die from illness.
Having you with that woman
is what I regret the most
my entire life!
Yan Tang!
By His Majesty's decree,
Minister of War, Wang Xing Yi,
has been found negligent in his duties,
leading to grave consequences.
He is hereby stripped of his title
as Grand Academician
of the Wenyan Pavilion
and demoted to Inspector of
the Shengtian Prefecture Patrol Office.
His daughter, Wang Ying Xue,
who is guilty of murder,
the punishment would ordinarily
be immediate execution.
However, considering
her descent into madness,
she is permitted to end her life
within her residence.
Thus decreed.
Thank you for your mercy, Your Majesty.
Ming.
Ming, look at me.
Ming.
-Good girl, Ming.
-My Lady,
with so many men in the Dou family,
you shouldn't have been
the one to do this.
The imperial decree has been issued.
Let me be the one to
play the villain this time.
Ming
Someone is here to see you.
It's you.
You've come to gloat, haven't you?
First, you brought misfortune
to your mother,
and then to your sister.
A bringer of misfortune!
So many people wish you were dead,
why won't you just
grant them their wish?
Give me back my daughter!
Bring Ming back to me!
In just a few days,
it will be my mother's birthday.
From the day your mother hanged herself,
I knew you'd never let me go.
I let you go a long time ago.
It's you who refuses to let yourself go.
You hate me to your very core
because my existence
is a constant reminder
of how your closest friend
took her own life because of you,
how you stole her place,
and ruined the happiness
she should have had.
You may be cruel,
but you're still human.
Even you can't escape the guilt gnawing
at your conscience
or the fear of divine retribution.
All these times
you've tried to kill me
weren't about me at all,
they were your desperate attempts
to escape the torment
of your sleepless nights.
That's not true!
Since ancient times, men have taken
wives and concubines, it's only natural.
Your mother was the one
who couldn't accept it.
She killed herself.
It wasn't my fault.
This is between you and my mother.
Let her be the one
to settle it with you now.
Zhao Gu Qiu!
I'm not afraid of you!
I've been living just fine.
What's done is done.
Killing you won't undo the past.
These flower petals won't kill you,
but I hope this lesson will make you
feel the same pain my mother endured
and bring some solace to her spirit.
(Blossom)
(Episode 24)
Shou Gu.
Father.
My marriage with Ying Xue was a mistake.
First, I wronged you and your mother,
and later, I wronged her and Ming.
Ming had a kind heart.
She didn't deserve this ending.
Ming suffered because of
the discord between her parents.
That's why she fell
so recklessly into love.
I often wonder
where I went wrong.
Perhaps I should never
have entered officialdom,
or maybe I should never
have left the capital.
If I hadn't,
I might now be enjoying
the blooming magnolias with joy.
You can't hold onto the past.
But
I'm forever trapped in the past now.
Your visit
makes me feel a little better.
After going through this ordeal,
I feel the need to tell you this.
Seize the moment,
cherish those you love.
Don't end up like me,
consumed by a lifetime of regret
When did you get here?
I've been here
since you stepped into
Wang Ying Xue's room.
This is between you and my mother.
Let her be the one
to settle it with you now.
It's such a shame about Ming.
The more wonderful something is,
the more strength
it takes to protect it.
Shou Gu,
I will always keep you safe
and ensure your peace.
I know.
Let's go home.
Alright, let's go home.
Marquis of Jining's Residence
has been confiscated.
He's been demoted to a commoner.
-You want this?
-Sir! Sir!
Catch! Go on!
Please give me back the painting.
Screw you!
Out of all this gold and treasure,
you only want a painting?
What, is there some
secret map hidden in it?
You want it?
Fine, beg for it properly.
Get on your knees now.
Come on.
Do it.
Please
What? I can't hear you.
Louder!
Please, I'm begging you!
Please give me back the painting.
Please!
Scram!
Go!
The entire city went into chaos
just because a token was lost.
The deployment order
reached the Warden's Office long ago.
What were those useless
officials even doing?
Your Majesty, I failed
to maintain order in my household,
which led to this disaster.
I humbly request punishment.
Don't take everything upon yourself.
This is a failure
of the capital's defenses.
Whatever happened within your family
couldn't have caused such an uproar.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
I will immediately coordinate
with the Six Ministries
and the Censorate
to conduct a thorough investigation.
I'll present the details
of the negligence to the court
for Your Majesty's review.
Approved.
The southern city under Duke of Ying's
watch remains peaceful.
Your family
has lived up to my expectations.
But, Yan Tang,
I'll need you to take charge
of the aftermath as well.
Duke of Ying has done a meticulous job,
even sparing his personal guards
to assist at my residence
in fighting off the bandits.
His attention to detail
is truly admirable.
I'll need to learn much from him.
Dealing with the immediate
aftermath is important,
but eliminating the bandits will
resolve the problem once and for all.
I am willing to lead the troops
to eradicate this threat
and ease Your Majesty's concerns.
Your Majesty,
while the bandits' force has weakened,
they are cunning.
Duke of Ying has been away
from the battlefield for some time.
I propose
entrusting the command to Lord Song,
allowing me to act as his advisor
and provide strategic support.
Very well.
Song Yi Chun will temporarily
oversee the Warden's Office
to handle the capital's recovery.
Yan Tang will lead the Imperial Guards
and 3,000 elite troops,
departing in three days.
Shi Shu will serve
as Acting Minister of War
and coordinate reinforcements.
Until the bandits
are completely eradicated,
none of you are
to return to the capital.
As Your Majesty commands.
Those bandits burned down
half the northern district.
If Song Mo continues
investigating along their trail,
he'll eventually
uncover inconsistencies.
It's better to send him off
to deal with the bandits
while I remain behind to oversee.
Even if he uncovers any clues,
it won't reach His Majesty.
You really are a master strategist.
Your foresight is remarkable.
This way, no matter how deep he digs,
we have nothing to fear.
General, is Her Ladyship coming
to see you off?
This isn't my first campaign.
There's no need for all that ceremony.
Let's depart then.
The auspicious hour hasn't arrived yet.
Right, right, of course.
Yan Tang.
Didn't you say yesterday
you wouldn't come to see me off?
I'm here to see the army off.
Liar.
Why did you come from outside the city?
Tell me the truth.
I went to Wanfo Temple
to pray for your safety.
The bandits are ruthless.
You must come back unharmed
and triumphant.
You left the city early in the morning
just to get me a blessing?
Aren't you worried I might
draw an ill-fated lot?
Don't worry about that.
I already removed
every bad lot from the jar.
What's left are only blessings
of good fortune.
What an overbearing worshiper you are.
Heavens watch over us.
God already knows what I wish for.
May you remain in love
and together for a lifetime.
This isn't right. You need one
about safety and success.
-Draw another.
-Why not?
I'm not drawing again. I want this one.
My love, will this fortune come true?
We'll see when you're back.
Don't brush me off.
If you keep me guessing,
I'll be distracted, always overthinking.
On the battlefield, that distraction
could cost me an arm, a leg,
or worse, my head.
Don't say such things!
You're about to go to battle,
don't you know better than
to speak ill omens?
So, that's a yes?
God is watching.
You can't take it back.
You must return safe and sound.
I'll be waiting for you.
General!
General, Minister Dou has given
the order, it's time to move out.
Form up!
Form up!
Listen to my command, Imperial Guards!
Yes, sir!
Today we march to battle.
We will not return
until every bandit is eradicated!
Eradicate the bandits!
Eradicate the bandits!
Eradicate the bandits!
Move out!
May we remain in love
and together for a lifetime.
(Zuixian Tower)
Isn't this the Marquis?
How about a drink at the shop today?
Not today.
You still haven't paid off
what you owe us.
I'll pay you back
once I sell some paintings.
No money?
Guards!
Search him for money.
Wait
Here, I have some here.
Here you go.
Here.
This is all you have?
Go to hell!
Let's go.
It's the Marquis. Follow him.
Well, if it isn't the Marquis.
How did you end up in such a state?
Master Zhou.
That painting in your hand
might still be worth something.
I'll consider it a charity
and take it off your hand.
I can't sell you
this painting, Master Zhou.
Beggars can't be choosers.
Give it to me!
-Master Zhou
-Get it!
Please let it go, Master Zhou!
Let me go! Give it back!
Let me go!
Oh, it's the Marchioness.
She's dead because of you.
What's the use of keeping it?
Tell you what, I'll do you a favor
and burn it as an offering to her.
No! Mr. Zhou, you can't burn it.
Please don't burn it.
I'm begging you, please don't burn it!
Master Zhou!
Please show some mercy!
I'll kowtow to you!
-Please don't burn it.
-What use is regret now?
No No, Master Zhou!
Please, Master Zhou!
Please don't burn
the painting, Master Zhou!
No!
Let go!
Darn you!
Beat him up!
Let's go!
It's alright, Ming. Don't be afraid.
Come on, just let me see it.
-My Lord.
-No.
Ming,
I miss you so much.
I knocked out my sister
and married you in her place.
Tomorrow, the world will mock me
for being shameless
and betraying my family.
Please visit me in my dreams.
Is this the one
you were painting last time?
Do you like it?
I love it.
Ming
Ming
My Lord.
It's time to take your medicine.
The doctor said
your cold hasn't gone away.
Yet you still insist on painting here.
Ming.
Is it really you?
I'm not dreaming, am I?
How?
What nonsense are you talking about?
I was just away for five minutes.
What's wrong with you?
You had a nightmare?
Ming.
Ming, I don't want to be
separated from you again.
I don't want to leave you ever again.
I won't.
I won't leave you.
Ming, this is great.
It was just a nightmare.
We'll never be separated again.
Here.
Soon after the imperial edict
was issued,
a crazy warlock came to the residence
saying that he can cure her.
She just needs to do bows from the foot
to the top of the mountain every day.
Do a bow every three steps
and a kowtow every nine steps,
accompanied by the chanting of sutras
for 100 times.
Ming will then be free
from the pain of hell.
Once she heard that, she was sane again.
She just begged to come here.
It looks like
Mother has forgiven her.
Luckily, you begged for the grace
of His Majesty
to let her live out her life here.
May this help her atone her sins
and get rid of karma.
There are thousands of steps from
the foot to the top of the mountain.
It would take hours to walk to the top,
let alone doing a bow every three steps
and a kowtow every nine steps.
Can a woman brave the elements
and complete this feat in 999 days?
I'm afraid not.
There you go.
In Buddhism, there's a narrative
called endless hell.
It's the most miserable one
among the eight hells.
People who commit a
heinous crime will be sent there.
There is no hope
of getting out of it ever again.
Bandits attacked the residence.
I originally thought
your injury was physical.
I didn't expect it
to be a trouble of the mind.
Your mind is in a mess.
You can't sleep well lately
and have a lot dreams, right?
There's another matter.
I have a good friend
whose husband is away.
She kept having nightmares.
She dreamed that her husband
was ambushed in the woods.
So she wanted me
to interpret her dreams.
She asked me
if her husband would be safe.
But I'm not good at this.
Is the woods
somewhere near Jinxi?
Oh, no.
This is bad. This is so bad.
What's wrong?
This is bad.
Your good friend's husband
can't offend nasty people.
There will be a bloody disaster.
He will be dying soon.
That good friend of mine even dreamed
that someone cursed her husband.
In the end,
that person suffered a rotten mouth,
rotten stomach and rotten heart.
My Lady.
His Lordship has written back.
You won't admit defeat
but have a soft heart.
You're the one should be punished
for talking nonsense.
Get the horse ready.
You're not getting treated?
Bandits suddenly surrounded us.
His Lordship has been ambushed
in the woods.
What's wrong?
I'm here.
Yan Tang.
The more you care,
the more irrational you become.
You're all right.
Yes.
Yan Chao Qing said
you were ambushed in the woods.
I'm the one who ambushed them.
If these bandits needed you
to rescue them,
I'd better go home and do needlework.
Stop laughing.
Get lost.
Nonetheless,
I've been injured.
The man's archery skills were good.
Luckily, I'm wearing
my golden silk soft armor.
Did you hurt your hand?
You got hurt here?
Let's go back to the tent now.
I'll check the wound for you.
Massaging around the area more
can improve blood circulation.
The wound will heal faster.
Let me look at the wound.
You don't have to.
The wound is almost healed.
Just now you said it hurts.
Are you afraid that I'll be worried
because it's serious?
Let me see.
You don't need to.
Let me see.
What's wrong?
You're injured so badly.
Does it still hurt?
No. It's just a minor injury.
In the past, nobody at home cared
when I got hurt.
Now that you worry about me,
I realise minor injuries like this
can make you feel bad for me
for a long time.
Who feels bad for you?
Do you know what day it is today?
Today?
In the military,
one loses track of time.
It's your birthday today.
Longevity noodles.
Happy birthday.
You remember my birthday?
Of course.
Thank you.
Try it.
Slow down.
Is it good?
You made it.
Of course it's good.
Can you make the birthday boy's wish
come true today?
Let me hear it first.
You must not get angry.
I won't.
General.
This better be worth it.
-Otherwise
-I understand.
I'll run laps.
Go ahead.
General, the refugees we
rescued from the bandits are awake.
They want to thank you.
I got it.
Aren't you leaving?
Thank you for saving our lives.
Please get up.
It's just a small matter.
It's not worth mentioning.
Where do you live?
My husband is a military general.
He can get someone to send you home.
Thank you, My Lady.
Our village has been destroyed
by the Cangbei bandits.
We no longer have a place to live.
We were on our way to the capital
to find my sister.
Which part of the capital
does you sister live in?
My eldest daughter
is in the capital city.
But we don't know where exactly.
The capital is very big.
We don't know where to start.
Madam, I have
a place in the capital
that specializes in the business
of calligraphy and painting tools.
If you don't mind,
you can settle down temporarily
at my place
before you look for your daughter.
What do you think?
In that case,
thank you so much, My Lady.
Chan, quickly kowtow to Her Ladyship.
-Please get up.
-Please get up.
Thank you.
My Lady, My Lady.
My Lady, my mother wants me
to give you this hair pin.
Thank you, My Lady.
I can't take this.
General.
What's wrong?
General, Guanghe
Restaurant has sent a message.
What did it say?
In general,
it says that although we have won,
rumors are flying around
in the palace.
They say you're greedy for success
and refuse to obey the orders
from Ministry of War.
They even say that bandits
wreaked havoc this time
because Her Ladyship
showed off her dowry
and aroused the envy of the bandits.
So the people were dragged into this.
The innocent got into trouble
because of the wealth they possess.
What did His Majesty say?
Lord Dou tried to defend you.
His Majesty then promoted him
to deputy prime minister.
But His Majesty didn't say anything
about your rewards.
Praising people overtly
but criticizing them covertly.
Uncle Shi Shu is really good at that.
The news of you being greedy for success
must be released by him too
to evoke fear in His Majesty
towards your arbitrariness.
Regarding the upheaval in the capital
caused by bandits,
239 thieves
have been executed.
Our operation against bandits this time
has entrenched the perimeters
of the capital.
The seven gangs in three provinces
which add up to 8000 rogue bandits
are either dead or captured.
They have all been eliminated.
In future, if they dare
to wreak havoc in the capital
and hurt the people,
we'll scatter their corpses in the open
for the birds to peck at
to serve as a warning.
Good, good!
I've performed a ceremony
at Wanfo Temple
for victims of this calamity
and help their souls find peace.
From today onward,
we will refrain from drinking
and having fun for one month
to pray that their souls rest in peace.
For those whose household has suffered,
Zhaowen Bookstore and Miao Family Store
have prepared food and medicinal herbs.
They will be free of charge
and given out for three days.
Good, good!
Song Mo is bribing people
in the capital.
You should remove his power
as punishment, Father.
Your Majesty, but the wife
of Lord Song said
the giving-away of food and medicine
is from the grace of Your Majesty
and donation of the palace.
The display of grace and majesty
at the same time
has suppressed the atrocious crime
and stopped
the complaints of angry people.
They have also upheld my reputation.
But Father,
he is obviously trying to be clever
to please you and get what he wants.
If you're capable of that too,
I wouldn't need to worry so much.
In that case,
the banquet for Lord Song
It shouldn't be held.
When brought up previously,
nobody in the palace was vigilant.
Only Yan Tang was aware and attentive.
Issue an edict.
Over 1000 people were injured
or dead in the capital.
According to the mourning system
of the state,
everyone in the palace and all officials
are prohibited from drinking
and having fun for a month.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Father, why did you bring me here?
I found the best teacher in
the world to teach you music.
And this is also
for celebrating your birthday.
Come on.
Come in.
Come on.
Shu Yao.
Han.
This is for you.
It's for keeping you safe.
Father.
Han.
All these years,
your birthday presents
that I handed to you
were all made by her.
Do you understand the meaning of this?
I don't get it at all.
Han.
Han.
Han.
Brother.
What's wrong with your eyes?
Is it because of the smoke?
I'm fine, Brother.
Why are you here?
Your cat came to Yizhi Hall again.
I got him back for you.
It loves to wander off.
What are you burning?
I have a missing ornamental knot
on my belt.
So I got a maid to make one for me.
But it turned out very ugly.
So I decided to burn it.
My Lord, General Yan and
Commander Chen are here.
They said it's important.
Let them wait in the front hall.
-Yes, My Lord.
-Commander Chen?
You can say he's a pawn
I secretly planted
in the Criminal Investigation Bureau.
His name is Chen Jia.
Chen Jia?
I'll kill you.
Can I listen to your conversation?
-My Lord.
-My Lord.
We've investigated the house
in the northern ward.
The proprietor registered it
under a fake name.
We only know a woman by the surname Li
is living there now.
She usually plays zither.
Using the portrait,
I've identified her traits
and penchants.
I suspect she's a palace prostitute
who entered the criminal records
of the Court Entertainment Bureau
and died of illness long ago,
Li Yaoniang.
Li Yaoniang?
How long has she lived there?
20 years.
The neighbours say they often see
a palanquin behind the house.
We've identified it with the drawing.
It's the palanquin
from Duke of Ying's Residence.
Don't mind that. Keep talking.
I've found an old neighbour nearby
and verified it with him.
He has never had concubines.
I thought he was loyal to Mother.
Turns out he has
another family long ago.
My Lord, how can Duke of Ying
single-handedly rescue
and relocate a criminal
under the Duchess of Ying's nose
and hide her away for 20 years?
It's not easy.
Who does she usually associate with?
She rarely leaves the house.
Only on the first and fifteenth day
of every month,
she would go to Wanfo Temple
to pray and listen to sutras.
The temple abbot knows her.
Continue to monitor her.
Yes, My Lord.
We'll split up to investigate this.
I'll go to Wanfo Temple.
Okay.
No matter what happens,
you must remember
that you still have me.
You're a fool.
Licorice candied fruits
can't be taken with the spurges
in Mother's prescription.
It's you who made her die from illness.
Having you with that woman
is what I regret the most
my entire life!
Yan Tang!