WEBVTT X-TIMESTAMP-MAP=LOCAL:00:00:00.000,MPEGTS:0 02:20.783 --> 02:21.663 Commandant Di. 02:21.743 --> 02:23.143 Cut us some slack, can't you? 02:23.183 --> 02:23.743 No kidding. 02:24.023 --> 02:25.263 We won't stand a chance. 02:25.583 --> 02:26.583 A bet's a bet. 02:27.983 --> 02:29.183 Win and you get half a day off. 02:29.863 --> 02:30.743 Those are the rules. 02:34.023 --> 02:34.783 Who's next? 02:39.183 --> 02:39.743 Your Majesty. 02:39.743 --> 02:41.063 Greetings, Your Majesty. 02:41.063 --> 02:42.303 During drills, 02:42.423 --> 02:43.903 skip the formalities. 02:44.023 --> 02:44.903 At ease. 02:45.183 --> 02:46.343 Thank you, Your Majesty. 02:55.423 --> 02:56.063 Nian. 02:56.623 --> 02:57.503 In just a few days, 02:57.863 --> 02:59.303 your form is even better now. 02:59.703 --> 03:00.583 You flatter me, Your Majesty. 03:01.023 --> 03:01.463 I must say, 03:01.463 --> 03:02.983 it's been ages since we last sparred. 03:03.183 --> 03:04.223 I've been itching for a match. 03:05.023 --> 03:06.343 You want a piece of His Majesty? 03:06.783 --> 03:08.183 You've got to get through me first. 03:08.743 --> 03:09.183 Don't forget 03:09.623 --> 03:10.743 about the drink you owe me 03:11.143 --> 03:12.623 from last time we crossed swords. 03:12.903 --> 03:13.423 Quit 03:13.423 --> 03:14.583 eyeing my meager stipend. 03:14.863 --> 03:15.863 Next time, I'm taking you down. 03:17.903 --> 03:19.063 This Imperial Guard 03:19.423 --> 03:20.983 was built from the ground up 03:21.023 --> 03:22.063 by the late Marquis. 03:22.463 --> 03:23.903 Now they're under your command, 03:24.143 --> 03:24.903 and rightly so. 03:27.903 --> 03:28.503 Nian. 03:29.903 --> 03:31.063 You've done your family proud. 03:31.583 --> 03:32.463 My father always said 03:33.463 --> 03:34.023 the Imperial Guard 03:34.023 --> 03:35.343 is Great Ning's sharpest spear. 03:36.263 --> 03:37.503 It must never lose its edge. 03:39.063 --> 03:39.743 [One day, Nian will] 03:39.743 --> 03:41.023 [stand tall like the late Marquis,] 03:41.303 --> 03:42.263 [holding his own ground,] 03:42.743 --> 03:43.783 [guarding the frontier.] 03:47.743 --> 03:49.503 I know it's been your aspiration since childhood 03:50.143 --> 03:51.303 to armor up and ride into battle. 03:53.023 --> 03:53.583 You don't belong 03:53.583 --> 03:55.063 here inside the palace walls 03:55.063 --> 03:56.183 merely as my shield. 03:57.183 --> 03:58.143 My father passed when I was young. 03:59.703 --> 04:00.703 Your Majesty gave me 04:00.703 --> 04:01.903 a home and a purpose. 04:02.743 --> 04:03.983 Now, guarding Your Majesty 04:04.303 --> 04:06.023 is the only feat I'll ever need. 04:06.463 --> 04:06.983 And I 04:07.583 --> 04:08.743 do so willingly. 04:12.183 --> 04:13.143 I'm pleased to have 04:13.143 --> 04:14.183 the two of you by my side. 04:14.703 --> 04:16.263 You're my right-hand men. 04:18.183 --> 04:20.263 The safety of the capital and my own 04:20.263 --> 04:21.703 rest on both of you. 04:23.383 --> 04:24.023 Nian. 04:24.703 --> 04:25.703 There's one more thing 04:25.823 --> 04:27.063 I need you to do for me. 04:27.703 --> 04:29.303 Select twelve light cavalrymen. 04:29.583 --> 04:30.783 Train them covertly. 04:31.263 --> 04:32.383 What for, Your Majesty? 04:32.823 --> 04:34.383 You'll know when the time comes. 04:34.943 --> 04:35.983 I'll see to it. 04:40.903 --> 04:43.023 Presented Candidates, enter the hall! 05:14.383 --> 05:16.023 Greetings, Your Majesty. 05:16.023 --> 05:18.463 Long live Your Majesty. 05:43.903 --> 05:45.063 Just grabbed some medicinal jelly. 05:45.263 --> 05:46.063 Anyone want a bite? 05:47.383 --> 05:48.263 Come on, try some! 05:48.463 --> 05:48.903 Here. 05:49.023 --> 05:49.703 I'll take one. 05:49.703 --> 05:50.263 Thank you so much. 05:50.943 --> 05:51.383 Thanks. 05:51.823 --> 05:52.263 There you go. 05:58.063 --> 05:59.063 Tinghui, uh, hey. 05:59.303 --> 06:00.943 Results are coming out today! 06:01.703 --> 06:02.743 Don't stress. 06:02.823 --> 06:04.183 W-We've totally got this! 06:04.183 --> 06:04.943 Take it easy. 06:07.463 --> 06:08.183 Fuzhi. 06:08.303 --> 06:09.263 I'm very much at ease. 06:10.023 --> 06:11.503 Just... would you stop pinching me? 06:16.623 --> 06:17.823 They're here! They're here! 06:17.903 --> 06:18.623 Good news! 06:23.703 --> 06:25.623 Where is Candidate An Qing from Jingdu? 06:25.623 --> 06:27.143 Right here! Right here! 06:28.263 --> 06:29.263 Congrats, Miss An, on placing 06:29.263 --> 06:30.703 16th in the Second Class of Presented Scholars! 06:32.183 --> 06:34.183 I passed! I actually passed! 06:36.503 --> 06:38.503 Zuo Qiurong from Jingzhou. 06:40.943 --> 06:41.743 Present. 06:42.063 --> 06:44.063 13th in the Third Class of Presented Scholars! 06:46.063 --> 06:47.063 I passed, too! 06:47.463 --> 06:48.503 I did it! 06:50.383 --> 06:52.183 Lu Xiaowan from Qingzhou. 06:53.183 --> 06:54.063 Here! 06:54.303 --> 06:55.743 16th in the Third Class of Presented Scholars! 06:57.503 --> 06:59.183 I made it! I made it, too! 07:02.303 --> 07:02.943 Fuzhi... 07:07.583 --> 07:08.743 Why didn't they call your name? 07:09.583 --> 07:11.063 Did something go wrong? 07:14.183 --> 07:14.943 Fuzhi? 07:18.143 --> 07:20.023 I snuck into the palace to get close to His Majesty 07:20.943 --> 07:22.623 and eavesdrop on state affairs. 07:22.623 --> 07:23.503 He found out. 07:25.383 --> 07:26.703 I probably pissed him off. 07:27.503 --> 07:29.623 He is impossible to read. 07:30.503 --> 07:32.063 He's not going to have your head, is he? 07:32.703 --> 07:33.903 He's the Son of Heaven. 07:34.943 --> 07:36.503 Surely he isn't that unforgiving? 07:47.303 --> 07:49.623 Meng Tinghui from Shazhou. 08:01.383 --> 08:02.143 By imperial decree: 08:02.463 --> 08:04.063 After thorough review of the proceedings 08:04.503 --> 08:05.703 of palace examination, 08:05.943 --> 08:07.023 the talented and virtuous 08:07.143 --> 08:09.183 Miss Meng Tinghui of the Shazhou Women's Academy 08:09.263 --> 08:10.383 has claimed the highest honors 08:10.623 --> 08:11.663 and is hereby appointed Top Scholar. 08:12.143 --> 08:14.263 Let this be known to all the realm. 09:01.383 --> 09:02.143 Fuzhi! 09:04.503 --> 09:05.263 It's mine. 09:09.783 --> 09:10.743 It's real... 09:13.903 --> 09:15.143 I'm the Top Scholar. 09:15.263 --> 09:16.783 I'm the Top Scholar! 10:13.263 --> 10:14.543 Hesitating over a move 10:14.743 --> 10:16.023 gives away a troubled mind. 10:16.743 --> 10:17.623 Chancellor. 10:18.343 --> 10:20.223 His Majesty has formally announced 10:20.623 --> 10:21.383 that Meng Tinghui 10:21.383 --> 10:22.623 is Great Ning's very first 10:22.623 --> 10:24.543 female Top Scholar to sweep all three exams. 10:25.343 --> 10:26.503 With backing like that, 10:27.023 --> 10:28.023 her future in the court 10:29.383 --> 10:31.863 is going to be unstoppable. 10:32.543 --> 10:34.143 A fresh Top Scholar? 10:35.143 --> 10:36.623 Just a shiny title. 10:37.423 --> 10:39.543 She hasn't been assigned an actual post yet. 10:40.503 --> 10:41.343 We might as well 10:41.343 --> 10:43.903 send her packing back home to wait around. 10:44.903 --> 10:47.383 Brilliant move as always, Chancellor. 10:47.743 --> 10:49.663 A masterclass in statecraft from a veteran. 10:50.423 --> 10:51.783 I am truly in awe. 11:03.503 --> 11:05.503 In the first year of Great Ning, 11:06.223 --> 11:08.023 the Top Scholar 11:08.903 --> 11:12.623 is Meng Tinghui from Shazhou! 11:19.663 --> 11:20.423 Congrats, Meng! 11:20.423 --> 11:21.263 Well done, Top Scholar! 11:21.263 --> 11:23.463 In the first year of Great Ning, 11:25.863 --> 11:27.703 the Top Scholar 11:28.983 --> 11:32.743 is Meng Tinghui from Shazhou! 11:44.103 --> 11:45.023 Make way! 11:46.343 --> 11:48.743 Well I'll be, Meng Tinghui actually pulled it off! 11:48.743 --> 11:49.743 Sweeping all three rounds! 11:49.743 --> 11:51.023 That's insane. 11:51.023 --> 11:51.863 Spring House used to host 11:51.863 --> 11:52.903 this rising star of literature. 11:52.903 --> 11:53.503 Ma'am, 11:53.623 --> 11:55.023 we have to set up a shrine where she'd stayed! 11:55.023 --> 11:56.143 Damn right we do! 11:56.143 --> 11:56.903 I'll lead the way. 11:56.903 --> 11:57.543 Awesome! 11:58.023 --> 11:58.903 You know what? Top Scholar 11:58.903 --> 11:59.983 actually graced our place. 12:00.343 --> 12:00.863 I mean it. 12:03.903 --> 12:05.263 Lady Meng! Top Scholar! 12:05.263 --> 12:06.743 Come celebrate at Spring House! 12:12.503 --> 12:13.343 Tinghui! 12:13.983 --> 12:16.023 Tinghui! Tinghui! 12:16.143 --> 12:17.103 Right over here! 12:17.383 --> 12:17.863 Over here! 12:18.143 --> 12:19.783 Can you see this? 12:20.543 --> 12:22.143 [Rising Star of Literature] 12:22.143 --> 12:23.543 [The World Is Your Oyster] 12:23.863 --> 12:25.023 That's my girl! 12:25.263 --> 12:26.663 We came up together! 12:27.143 --> 12:28.423 Tinghui, look over here. 12:28.663 --> 12:30.623 Well-earned, Top Scholar! 12:31.023 --> 12:31.863 You see all of this? 13:02.143 --> 13:03.023 Top Scholar! 13:04.143 --> 13:05.023 Well-done, Meng! 13:06.223 --> 13:07.263 Bravo, lady! 13:07.503 --> 13:08.423 Congrats! 13:09.143 --> 13:10.103 You have earned it! 13:12.023 --> 13:12.783 Did you see that? 13:13.383 --> 13:14.743 We go way back! 13:17.223 --> 13:18.423 Top Scholar! 13:19.543 --> 13:21.103 Congratulations! 13:45.143 --> 13:46.383 Changle Street 13:46.863 --> 13:48.143 is where 13:48.383 --> 13:50.023 the entire city's old and 13:50.023 --> 13:50.903 new money's is going. 13:50.983 --> 13:51.543 Take a look 13:51.663 --> 13:52.863 at this storefront here. 13:53.903 --> 13:54.383 Right up front, 13:54.503 --> 13:56.143 you have the premier Silk Manor in town. 13:56.903 --> 13:57.383 Right next door 13:57.423 --> 13:58.903 is the legendary Rouge Pavilion. 13:59.503 --> 14:01.223 And across the street is Spring House. 14:01.863 --> 14:03.783 If the owner weren't tied up with family drama, 14:03.903 --> 14:05.023 a prime spot like this 14:05.343 --> 14:07.623 would never hit the leasing market. 14:10.423 --> 14:11.343 Brilliant! 14:11.903 --> 14:13.863 What a spacious and imposing façade! 14:14.343 --> 14:14.983 With a quick fix-up, 14:14.983 --> 14:16.063 we can get up and running in no time. 14:16.423 --> 14:17.143 If I serve up some 14:17.143 --> 14:18.343 authentic mutton noodles here, 14:18.423 --> 14:20.343 we'll easily outstrip Spring House. 14:20.623 --> 14:22.103 I'm sold. I love it. 14:22.223 --> 14:22.903 I'm taking it. 14:23.623 --> 14:25.663 You're a woman of action, Miss Yan! 14:26.023 --> 14:27.863 Let's lock in the deposit, then, so we can 14:27.863 --> 14:29.223 get you a license over at 14:29.223 --> 14:30.023 Lord Ear-Pimp's. 14:30.503 --> 14:31.543 Lord Ear-Pimp? 14:32.143 --> 14:33.503 What's that supposed to mean? 14:34.783 --> 14:36.023 Well, Lord Ear-Pimp oversees 14:36.263 --> 14:38.143 all commercial operations across Jingdu— 14:38.623 --> 14:40.263 from food ingredients 14:40.663 --> 14:41.543 and shop safety 14:41.663 --> 14:43.383 to tax collection. 14:44.503 --> 14:45.543 Speak of the devil. 14:45.663 --> 14:46.383 You're looking 14:46.383 --> 14:47.263 at him right now: 14:47.263 --> 14:48.263 Lord Shen, Lord Ear-Pimp. 14:49.343 --> 14:50.983 Wait, who's that again? 14:51.503 --> 14:52.543 In Jingdu, his name is basically 14:52.543 --> 14:53.423 common knowledge: 14:53.423 --> 14:54.623 Shen Zhishu, 14:54.623 --> 14:55.863 as in young Lord Shen. 14:56.423 --> 14:57.623 To open a joint, Miss Yan, 14:57.623 --> 14:58.263 you'll need to 14:58.263 --> 14:59.023 go to him 14:59.023 --> 15:00.023 for all the paperwork. 15:00.743 --> 15:01.783 If fortune smiles on you, 15:02.143 --> 15:03.743 you might be open in three months. 15:04.023 --> 15:05.383 That's pretty much forever! 15:05.743 --> 15:08.103 We're right under the Emperor's nose, hence red tape. 15:08.783 --> 15:09.623 In this town, 15:09.663 --> 15:11.383 you can't throw a stone without hitting a merchant. 15:11.783 --> 15:13.663 Trade permits are strictly limited. 15:13.983 --> 15:15.543 If you can't get a local official to 15:15.543 --> 15:16.383 put in a good word for you, 15:16.663 --> 15:18.103 waiting a year or more 15:18.263 --> 15:19.503 is totally standard. 15:21.503 --> 15:22.023 If I'd known... 15:22.023 --> 15:23.543 I wouldn't have thrown him out. 15:24.743 --> 15:26.023 Well, good luck next time. 15:27.103 --> 15:28.383 Lord Shen, hello? 15:30.143 --> 15:30.863 Over here. 15:33.743 --> 15:35.103 He actually ignored me! 15:38.863 --> 15:39.903 Lord Shen. 15:41.383 --> 15:42.023 Am I intruding? 15:42.143 --> 15:43.143 Well, Mr. Yu and I agreed on 15:43.143 --> 15:44.343 the reservation a while back. 15:44.423 --> 15:46.503 I didn't expect you to still be here, ladies. 15:48.103 --> 15:50.023 We're here for you, Lord Shen. 15:58.623 --> 15:59.423 Lord Shen. 16:02.023 --> 16:03.223 Come on in and sit with us. 16:03.543 --> 16:05.023 I'm afraid we have to monopolize 16:05.023 --> 16:06.263 Spring House for today. 16:06.623 --> 16:08.143 So you'll have to make do 16:08.143 --> 16:09.143 and join us. 16:10.143 --> 16:11.743 But we've gone to the trouble 16:11.743 --> 16:13.143 of preparing fine wine for you. 16:13.663 --> 16:14.783 This is "Mellow Spring." 16:16.023 --> 16:17.503 Let me pour you a cup first. 16:17.623 --> 16:18.543 Do take a sip. 16:20.143 --> 16:20.863 Much obliged. 16:21.223 --> 16:21.983 Lord Shen, 16:22.503 --> 16:23.143 drink up. 16:25.663 --> 16:26.543 How do you find it? 16:28.383 --> 16:30.503 Let me refill you, Lord Shen. 16:36.743 --> 16:38.743 It's been a while since we last met. 16:38.903 --> 16:40.503 Look at you, how emaciated. 16:42.223 --> 16:44.023 Can you imagine? He was even bonier as a child. 16:44.263 --> 16:45.103 When we were young, 16:45.103 --> 16:45.663 Father insisted 16:45.663 --> 16:46.983 on arranging a betrothal for us. 16:47.103 --> 16:48.503 But I adamantly refused. 16:48.623 --> 16:49.863 Only then did he give up the idea. 16:50.223 --> 16:51.423 Looking back now, 16:51.503 --> 16:53.223 I really regret it. 16:59.103 --> 17:00.503 Speaking of childhood, 17:00.743 --> 17:01.783 one Shangsi Festival, 17:01.783 --> 17:03.623 he helped chase away wasps for me. 17:03.983 --> 17:04.663 Funny how 17:04.663 --> 17:05.583 he got stung and 17:05.583 --> 17:06.463 swelled up like a pufferfish! 17:06.903 --> 17:07.983 That's not remotely hilarious. 17:07.983 --> 17:08.623 When we were little, 17:08.623 --> 17:10.383 he waded into the river to catch fish for me, 17:10.383 --> 17:11.663 but ended up tumbling in 17:11.663 --> 17:13.103 and came out a drowned rat. 17:17.423 --> 17:19.063 Ladies, can we quit this expose-Shen-Zhishu race? 17:19.143 --> 17:20.423 I have matters to attend to. 17:20.423 --> 17:21.303 I'll take my leave now. 17:22.223 --> 17:23.903 You're not leaving. 17:30.903 --> 17:31.863 Zhishu! 17:32.303 --> 17:34.303 You were so sweet on me back in Shazhou. 17:34.303 --> 17:35.343 Where did all those vows go? 17:35.543 --> 17:36.543 Are you going to tell me why 17:36.543 --> 17:37.903 you acted like a stranger in Jingdu? 17:38.423 --> 17:40.623 Oh, I see you've found two new sweethearts. 17:41.783 --> 17:42.663 Who the heck is she? 17:43.383 --> 17:45.063 I'm the one he holds dearest in his heart, 17:45.143 --> 17:46.783 the one he's going to marry with full rites. 17:46.903 --> 17:47.943 So who do you think I am? 18:00.663 --> 18:01.343 My apologies. 18:02.543 --> 18:03.423 My wife has a fiery temper. 18:03.423 --> 18:04.423 Forgive us. 18:05.903 --> 18:06.783 Wife? 18:15.143 --> 18:16.303 You're shameless! 18:16.703 --> 18:17.543 Scoundrel! 18:18.383 --> 18:18.943 You're...! 18:22.663 --> 18:23.543 Just felt like it. 18:27.863 --> 18:28.543 Miss Yan. 18:28.703 --> 18:30.423 Thanks for helping me out of a tight spot. 18:30.423 --> 18:31.143 How about 18:31.143 --> 18:32.343 being a bit more tactful next time, though? 18:32.583 --> 18:33.103 Well, then. 18:33.143 --> 18:33.783 Any 18:33.783 --> 18:34.783 gesture of gratitude? 18:37.903 --> 18:39.343 As the fairy tales go, 18:39.423 --> 18:41.303 a life-saving favor is repaid by marriage. 18:41.903 --> 18:43.183 But let's skip that for us. 18:43.423 --> 18:45.103 You left a permanent scar in me. 18:46.143 --> 18:47.903 Miss Yan, you can just spit it out. 18:48.383 --> 18:50.103 Fine, I'll be direct. 18:50.623 --> 18:52.063 I plan to bring Bofeng House here, 18:52.063 --> 18:53.063 along with my signature, 18:53.063 --> 18:54.623 authentic Shazhou cuisine. 18:54.623 --> 18:55.703 I've already picked a spot. 18:55.703 --> 18:56.543 Right next door. 18:56.903 --> 18:59.423 But I've heard that 18:59.423 --> 19:00.903 getting a trade permit 19:00.903 --> 19:02.343 can take a year or more. 19:02.703 --> 19:05.103 So, Lord Shen, I wonder if you're down 19:05.103 --> 19:05.863 to vouch for me 19:05.863 --> 19:06.823 and expedite the process. 19:09.303 --> 19:10.823 I knew you had an ulterior motive. 19:11.063 --> 19:12.623 Just go through the due procedures. 19:12.623 --> 19:13.463 If you're approved, 19:13.463 --> 19:14.703 someone will notify you. 19:14.983 --> 19:16.343 You will help me. 19:16.783 --> 19:18.063 And if I refuse? 19:18.343 --> 19:18.823 If... 19:19.703 --> 19:21.623 If you refuse, 19:22.103 --> 19:22.863 don't expect me to 19:22.863 --> 19:24.103 speak to you again in Jingdu. 19:25.383 --> 19:26.623 Isn't your way of asking favors 19:26.623 --> 19:27.823 a bit loud indeed? 19:27.943 --> 19:28.823 But I, regretfully, 19:28.983 --> 19:30.183 just don't buy it. 19:31.823 --> 19:32.423 Adieu. 19:34.543 --> 19:35.823 Ten jugs of Shazhou White. 19:38.383 --> 19:39.943 What? I didn't catch that. 19:42.623 --> 19:45.703 Plus five jugs of Shazhou tribute wine. 19:45.703 --> 19:46.503 Plus, 19:46.503 --> 19:47.903 don't push your luck. 19:52.623 --> 19:53.183 I'll need to 19:53.183 --> 19:54.663 see Miss Yan's sincerity first. 19:54.863 --> 19:55.383 How about 19:55.623 --> 19:56.343 an extra home-cook 19:56.343 --> 19:57.583 full Shazhou feast by you? 19:58.143 --> 19:58.863 In your dreams. 20:02.863 --> 20:04.623 Well, I'll just sadly take a sip elsewhere. 20:08.303 --> 20:08.983 Stop right there. 20:17.623 --> 20:19.143 Ten jugs of Shazhou White, 20:19.383 --> 20:21.143 five jugs of tribute wine, 20:21.143 --> 20:22.583 plus a table of my cooking. 20:22.823 --> 20:23.623 Take it or leave it. 20:26.223 --> 20:27.623 You could've budged earlier. 20:28.663 --> 20:29.543 Miss Yan, 20:29.783 --> 20:30.983 next time you want to meet me, 20:30.983 --> 20:32.103 just send a note. 20:32.303 --> 20:33.623 Saves you from the whole 20:33.703 --> 20:35.223 elaborate show. 20:35.623 --> 20:36.183 Bast...! 20:37.623 --> 20:38.543 Watch your attitude. 20:39.383 --> 20:40.463 We're in the imperial city. 20:45.463 --> 20:46.063 Get lost. 20:46.223 --> 20:47.823 Who wants to see you anyway? 20:49.143 --> 20:49.783 What did you say? 20:49.943 --> 20:51.183 I said, 20:52.223 --> 20:53.943 Get the hell out of my sight, now! 21:40.383 --> 21:41.143 Thank you, Teacher. 21:44.063 --> 21:44.663 Uncle. 21:44.863 --> 21:45.623 Long time no see. 21:47.103 --> 21:47.543 Zhili. 21:47.983 --> 21:49.583 Father and Mother prepared a big meal 21:49.583 --> 21:50.623 to celebrate your entry 21:50.623 --> 21:51.503 into the Imperial Academy. 21:51.823 --> 21:52.663 Why are you so late? 21:54.343 --> 21:55.063 Uncle, 21:55.543 --> 21:56.543 thanks for escorting her back. 21:56.663 --> 21:57.863 I'll take it from here. 22:02.303 --> 22:03.863 May you bear in mind the scholarly aspirations. 22:03.903 --> 22:04.903 Your future is vast as the sea. 22:05.303 --> 22:06.543 Your post at the Academy is set. 22:06.783 --> 22:07.423 Remember to 22:07.623 --> 22:08.623 hone your character 22:08.783 --> 22:10.183 till you're as consummate as the halls of jade there. 22:10.623 --> 22:11.103 Here. 22:12.423 --> 22:13.423 Thank you, Teacher. 22:15.383 --> 22:16.703 Uncle, you should head back too. 22:17.383 --> 22:18.703 Aunt must be waiting. 22:19.103 --> 22:19.903 At your leisure, 22:20.143 --> 22:21.823 do pay us a visit. With Aunt. 22:23.983 --> 22:24.463 Go on now. 22:25.143 --> 22:25.983 Your parents are waiting. 22:25.983 --> 22:27.143 He's right. 22:27.663 --> 22:29.143 Don't keep them waiting. 22:29.583 --> 22:30.383 Let's head in, Zhili. 22:36.423 --> 22:37.423 What did you just call me? 22:37.623 --> 22:38.623 Disrespectful. 22:38.863 --> 22:39.583 Call me sis. 22:40.183 --> 22:41.143 Fine, sis. 22:42.303 --> 22:43.023 We've got 22:43.023 --> 22:44.063 all the fine dishes in the world. 22:44.383 --> 22:45.463 The exam took a toll on you. 22:45.983 --> 22:47.783 You'll need to eat a lot to replenish. 22:51.383 --> 22:52.543 The last dish— 22:53.143 --> 22:55.143 sweet and sour ribs, your mother's favorite. 22:55.223 --> 22:56.143 Well, I'll just t... 22:56.583 --> 22:57.303 Take a seat. 22:57.823 --> 22:58.703 Thanks for the meal, Father. 22:59.223 --> 22:59.783 Mom. 22:59.903 --> 23:01.143 We owe you a big one today. 23:01.183 --> 23:02.103 I'm starting to forget 23:02.103 --> 23:03.103 the taste of dad's cooking. 23:03.463 --> 23:04.863 My nice, shiny jawline is getting 23:04.863 --> 23:05.983 sharper from weight loss. 23:06.063 --> 23:07.383 When the tiger's away, 23:07.383 --> 23:08.623 the monkey plays. 23:09.703 --> 23:10.703 Aren't you having 23:10.703 --> 23:11.943 the moment of your life? 23:12.783 --> 23:14.783 I heard His Majesty has made you "Ear-Pimp", 23:14.783 --> 23:16.183 making poetry and leisure your duty. 23:16.463 --> 23:17.303 I can't help but wonder 23:17.543 --> 23:18.143 how many days 23:18.143 --> 23:19.943 you spent pestering him just so you get the post? 23:21.143 --> 23:21.783 Mom! 23:22.063 --> 23:22.943 He's being harsh again. 23:23.903 --> 23:24.423 What I do 23:24.423 --> 23:25.823 is serious, important work. 23:25.863 --> 23:26.903 It's not like I have a say 23:26.943 --> 23:28.183 in what His Majesty has me do. 23:29.383 --> 23:31.223 The other day, you scolded him for whiling away his youth. 23:31.663 --> 23:32.983 Now you're accusing him 23:33.103 --> 23:34.383 of currying favor for a post. 23:34.903 --> 23:35.423 What? 23:35.623 --> 23:36.943 You have to wake up one day 23:36.943 --> 23:38.623 finding your son one of those stuffy pedant, 23:38.783 --> 23:39.823 wearing a stern face all day. 23:39.943 --> 23:41.223 Does that make you happy? 23:43.463 --> 23:44.343 Thanks, mom. 23:45.903 --> 23:47.783 Since His Majesty bestowed the post on him, 23:47.863 --> 23:49.303 his every move's been under scrutiny. 23:49.623 --> 23:50.983 If he misses the wrong move, 23:51.183 --> 23:51.903 it'll be a blade 23:51.903 --> 23:53.343 used against him sooner or later. 23:54.223 --> 23:56.223 Don't get fooled by Brother's casual demeanor. 23:56.303 --> 23:57.303 When it comes to serious matters, 23:57.303 --> 23:58.303 he's no slouch. 23:58.823 --> 24:00.183 His Majesty's well aware of that. 24:00.183 --> 24:01.343 Hence the post. 24:02.343 --> 24:03.223 My sweet, sweet sister. 24:03.583 --> 24:04.303 What a showcase 24:04.303 --> 24:05.423 of sibling love. 24:06.783 --> 24:07.423 Thank you, Father. 24:08.943 --> 24:09.583 Dad, 24:09.863 --> 24:11.343 no one in the court, 24:11.383 --> 24:13.063 except me, your beloved son, 24:13.063 --> 24:14.383 would be cut out for the post. 24:15.103 --> 24:16.383 I'm not going to deny the fact that 24:16.383 --> 24:17.383 I am indulgence incarnate. 24:17.543 --> 24:19.183 But there's a lot more to it than meets the eye. 24:19.463 --> 24:20.223 Arrogant! 24:22.903 --> 24:24.383 Others would kill for a path to high office, 24:24.383 --> 24:25.103 but you— 24:25.103 --> 24:26.223 you're narrowing yours. 24:26.423 --> 24:27.783 You were, to say the least, a Councilor. 24:27.783 --> 24:28.623 And now? 24:28.983 --> 24:29.823 You can't even attend court 24:29.823 --> 24:31.543 without getting permission first. 24:32.223 --> 24:33.183 Will you just look up to Nian? 24:33.663 --> 24:35.463 Growing up, he's been much more sensible than you. 24:35.463 --> 24:37.343 He never worries us, 24:37.343 --> 24:38.863 and is very attentive. 24:40.903 --> 24:41.463 Thank you, Father. 24:42.303 --> 24:42.863 Sis... 24:42.863 --> 24:43.623 Nian, I want that. 24:44.383 --> 24:46.183 With no ambition 24:46.183 --> 24:47.223 and all show, 24:47.343 --> 24:48.943 you're headed for a nasty fall. 24:50.583 --> 24:51.063 Here, Father, 24:51.223 --> 24:52.103 try some of these. 24:55.183 --> 24:55.943 Mother. 24:57.623 --> 24:58.583 You carry none 24:58.583 --> 25:00.303 of my qualities in your blood, 25:01.823 --> 25:02.903 let alone your mother's. 25:03.943 --> 25:05.063 Just watch Nian and learn. 25:05.903 --> 25:07.143 My eyes, nose, mouth— 25:07.143 --> 25:08.103 I'm a chip off your block. 25:08.343 --> 25:09.423 "Nian", "Nian", "Nian". 25:09.783 --> 25:10.223 Is 25:10.223 --> 25:11.623 Nian your son by blood, or I am? 25:11.623 --> 25:12.663 If it were possible, 25:12.863 --> 25:14.143 of course I'd wish Nian 25:14.143 --> 25:15.063 were my son by blood. 25:16.383 --> 25:17.663 His Di family is full of loyal heroes. 25:18.143 --> 25:19.143 At only 18, Nian undertook 25:19.143 --> 25:20.383 to patrol the borders for His Majesty. 25:20.383 --> 25:20.863 And you? 25:21.143 --> 25:22.543 All you do is take His Majesty 25:22.543 --> 25:23.583 out hunting and hawking. 25:23.583 --> 25:24.943 What kind of minister is that? 25:25.143 --> 25:26.623 You should visit the palace less often. 25:27.143 --> 25:27.823 His Majesty 25:27.823 --> 25:28.983 ought to be accompanied by 25:28.983 --> 25:30.343 loyal and upright ministers like Nian. 25:30.663 --> 25:31.903 But I did all that for his sake! 25:31.903 --> 25:32.863 Alright, Zhishu, 25:33.063 --> 25:34.103 enough. 25:37.343 --> 25:38.823 Well, His Majesty can't do without me. 25:39.423 --> 25:40.423 If I stop visiting him, 25:40.583 --> 25:41.383 within three days, 25:41.463 --> 25:42.863 His Majesty will come looking for me. 25:43.983 --> 25:44.623 You all hear that? 25:44.623 --> 25:46.103 What nonsense is he spouting? 25:46.303 --> 25:46.983 As if His Majesty 25:46.983 --> 25:48.063 can't hold court without you! 25:49.583 --> 25:50.623 Nian, dig in. 25:50.623 --> 25:51.543 You're elder in age 25:51.543 --> 25:53.303 than Zhili and Nian. 25:53.623 --> 25:54.143 How come 25:54.143 --> 25:55.303 you give us the most grief? 25:55.903 --> 25:56.463 People out there 25:56.463 --> 25:57.903 would take you for the baby. 25:58.543 --> 25:59.463 Because I'm good-looking? 26:03.703 --> 26:04.943 Because you've got nothing upstairs. 26:05.583 --> 26:07.143 Father, Mother, 26:07.463 --> 26:08.663 aren't we supposed to be celebrating? 26:08.663 --> 26:10.223 Sis came second in the Palace Exam, 26:10.783 --> 26:11.943 and got her dream post 26:11.943 --> 26:13.183 at the Imperial Academy. 26:13.663 --> 26:14.223 I've got 26:14.223 --> 26:15.183 a gift for you. 26:15.343 --> 26:15.903 Oh, right! 26:16.103 --> 26:17.423 How can we forget the main event? 26:17.583 --> 26:18.143 Zhili, 26:18.143 --> 26:19.743 your father and I have something for you too. 26:27.143 --> 26:28.063 Thanks, Nian. 26:28.663 --> 26:30.223 My gloves were just wearing out. 26:30.863 --> 26:32.103 You're the sweetest, Nian. 26:33.143 --> 26:34.783 Zhili, take a look at this. 26:36.183 --> 26:37.663 This four-treasure set was handmade 26:37.663 --> 26:39.823 by your father himself back in his academy days. 26:40.383 --> 26:41.423 This inkstone was carved 26:41.623 --> 26:43.303 from the Blue Mountain slate given as a 26:43.303 --> 26:44.423 royal favor from the late emperor 26:44.423 --> 26:45.583 when I earned triple firsts. 26:46.143 --> 26:47.143 It stays cool in summer and warm in winter, 26:47.143 --> 26:48.623 keeping the ink from drying out. 26:49.383 --> 26:50.983 Thank you, Father. Thank you, Mother. 26:50.983 --> 26:51.983 When I started my career, 26:52.343 --> 26:52.703 why 26:52.703 --> 26:53.823 didn't anyone give me a gift? 26:53.943 --> 26:54.823 What would you have wanted? 26:55.423 --> 26:57.143 Gambling chips made from Kingwood? 26:57.303 --> 26:58.623 or jade-carved dices? 27:00.063 --> 27:01.583 Or maybe buy back a few 27:01.903 --> 27:02.903 of your lady friends? 27:04.983 --> 27:05.583 Dad, 27:05.823 --> 27:07.383 am I really your own son? 27:07.863 --> 27:09.063 Why are you always picking on me? 27:09.183 --> 27:10.143 If you seriously think 27:10.383 --> 27:11.903 I've disgraced our family, 27:11.903 --> 27:12.623 I'll leave now. 27:15.143 --> 27:15.943 Brother... 27:17.543 --> 27:18.903 It's fine. I'm done. 27:25.103 --> 27:25.903 Shen Wuchen. 27:26.543 --> 27:27.863 Do you have to be so cruel 27:27.863 --> 27:28.823 to be kind? 27:29.303 --> 27:30.663 You hate to see him hurt, 27:30.823 --> 27:31.423 yet it is 27:31.423 --> 27:32.903 your words that cut him to the bone. 27:33.543 --> 27:34.423 Zhishu has done 27:34.423 --> 27:35.943 more than enough all these years. 27:38.303 --> 27:39.423 His Majesty has always 27:39.703 --> 27:41.423 seen Zhishu as a bosom friend and would 27:41.903 --> 27:43.183 trust him on everything. 27:43.903 --> 27:45.623 So the court can't even afford an infinitesimal 27:45.623 --> 27:46.703 misstep from Zhishu. 27:48.223 --> 27:49.783 The censors' pens 27:50.623 --> 27:52.583 cut sharper than any sword. 27:56.543 --> 27:57.943 Does that necessarily mean 27:59.343 --> 28:01.143 his father should turn that edge on him first? 28:03.623 --> 28:04.623 Just see for yourself. 28:05.063 --> 28:06.343 He never gets enough 28:06.343 --> 28:07.583 of the soup you made. 28:08.223 --> 28:09.303 But he didn't even touch it today. 28:33.663 --> 28:34.663 The appointment notice 28:34.663 --> 28:35.703 hasn't come yet. 28:37.543 --> 28:38.143 No idea 28:38.143 --> 28:39.343 how much longer we'll have to wait. 28:40.463 --> 28:41.143 Tinghui, 28:41.383 --> 28:43.143 maybe our posts are so great 28:43.143 --> 28:44.423 that those old fogies need 28:44.423 --> 28:45.583 extra time to deliberate. 28:46.543 --> 28:47.183 Miss Meng, 28:47.183 --> 28:48.463 the Ministry just sent a note. 28:48.463 --> 28:49.463 On my way! 28:52.783 --> 28:53.383 Thanks. 28:55.343 --> 28:56.143 Hurry up! 28:57.143 --> 28:58.383 Let's see which cushy job it is. 29:08.143 --> 29:09.143 "Return home and await orders". 29:09.863 --> 29:10.903 That can't be. 29:11.223 --> 29:12.823 I made inquiries today. 29:13.303 --> 29:14.063 All the other 29:14.063 --> 29:15.143 female officials have 29:15.143 --> 29:16.343 already left for their posts. 29:16.703 --> 29:17.703 Both Shen Zhili 29:17.783 --> 29:19.103 and Zuo Qiurong 29:19.103 --> 29:19.583 are placed 29:19.583 --> 29:20.863 at the Imperial Academy. 29:21.063 --> 29:22.383 Everyone has a post now, 29:23.463 --> 29:25.103 except I'm sent back home. 29:26.383 --> 29:27.223 It seems someone 29:27.223 --> 29:28.783 is dead set on killing my career. 29:30.423 --> 29:31.143 Tinghui, 29:31.543 --> 29:33.343 you're personally chosen by His Majesty. 29:33.383 --> 29:34.423 Who'd have the nerve 29:34.423 --> 29:35.703 to block your appointment? 29:36.103 --> 29:37.223 Who else but 29:38.943 --> 29:40.103 Chancellor Xu? 29:41.903 --> 29:42.463 Fuzhi, 29:43.903 --> 29:45.143 I can't just sit here and take it. 29:46.103 --> 29:47.383 I need to find a way before dawn 29:47.383 --> 29:48.543 to see His Majesty. 29:48.983 --> 29:50.343 We'll figure it out together. 29:51.063 --> 29:51.823 I've got money, 29:51.823 --> 29:52.623 and you've got wit. 29:52.703 --> 29:54.183 Nothing can stop us. 29:57.703 --> 29:58.463 Miss Meng, 29:59.103 --> 30:00.423 Chancellor Xu requests your presence. 30:01.943 --> 30:02.663 Of all hours, 30:02.903 --> 30:04.783 he has to send for you in the dead of night? 30:04.983 --> 30:06.143 He's up to no good, I bet. 30:06.143 --> 30:07.623 He probably wants you silenced for good. 30:07.823 --> 30:09.223 They've already got us surrounded. 30:10.463 --> 30:12.103 There's no way out. 30:13.223 --> 30:13.943 This time, 30:14.903 --> 30:15.943 I have to go. 30:26.143 --> 30:27.583 My dear ministers, here, 30:27.903 --> 30:29.583 drink another cup with me. 30:30.143 --> 30:31.623 Thank you, Your Majesty. 30:36.103 --> 30:38.623 Presenting the newly minted Top Scholar, Meng Tinghui. 30:58.863 --> 31:01.103 Your subject Meng Tinghui 31:01.383 --> 31:02.623 greets Your Majesty. 31:02.983 --> 31:04.983 May Your Majesty enjoy eternal blessings. 31:17.103 --> 31:19.383 I summoned you tonight under the name 31:19.383 --> 31:20.343 of Chancellor Xu 31:20.343 --> 31:22.383 to see if your guts live up to your ambition. 31:22.903 --> 31:24.863 And you show up alone. 31:24.943 --> 31:25.583 I'm impressed. 31:26.903 --> 31:28.143 You're astute and dauntless. 31:28.903 --> 31:30.383 Offer our Top Scholar a seat. 31:34.343 --> 31:35.143 Thank you, Your Majesty. 31:39.863 --> 31:40.783 Meng Tinghui, 31:41.383 --> 31:42.943 your triple firsts 31:43.623 --> 31:45.663 have made me proud. 31:47.343 --> 31:49.623 The pleasure is beyond words. 31:49.823 --> 31:51.303 I owe this chance all to 31:51.863 --> 31:53.063 Your Majesty's blessings. 31:53.223 --> 31:54.823 I will prove worthy of your favor 31:55.063 --> 31:56.183 by doing my part. 31:56.623 --> 31:57.663 Everyone, 31:59.303 --> 32:01.623 let's all raise a glass to Meng Tinghui. 32:01.623 --> 32:03.423 To Top Scholar! 32:05.903 --> 32:07.983 I'm in such high spirits today. 32:08.103 --> 32:10.143 And I have a big announcement to make. 32:10.383 --> 32:12.423 Announcing Chancellor Xu! 32:28.343 --> 32:29.143 Your Majesty. 32:29.903 --> 32:31.543 Should you hope to summon Meng Tinghui 32:31.543 --> 32:32.983 under this old minister's name, 32:33.383 --> 32:34.663 you might want to let me know 32:34.663 --> 32:36.583 beforehand next time. 32:38.863 --> 32:41.303 And you've been drinking? 32:45.703 --> 32:47.143 Oh, hello, Chancellor Xu. 32:47.543 --> 32:49.903 The women's exam just concluded. 32:49.903 --> 32:50.863 I'm very delighted. 32:50.863 --> 32:53.103 I just feel like throwing a banquet for everyone. 32:53.103 --> 32:54.063 Chancellor Xu, 32:54.983 --> 32:55.943 come here. I'll top you up. 32:55.943 --> 32:56.583 Your Majesty, 32:56.823 --> 32:58.103 I have served three reigns, 32:58.623 --> 33:00.143 yet I have never seen an emperor 33:00.143 --> 33:02.543 conduct himself so poorly before his courtiers. 33:04.383 --> 33:05.303 Meng Tinghui. 33:05.543 --> 33:06.543 The appointment notice 33:06.543 --> 33:08.543 never reached you, did it? 33:08.543 --> 33:11.863 This banquet is for officials of the sixth rank and above. 33:12.143 --> 33:13.623 You don't belong here. 33:13.983 --> 33:14.623 Chancellor, 33:14.623 --> 33:16.143 if you'd still trouble yourself with me 33:16.463 --> 33:17.903 for all my insignificance. 33:18.903 --> 33:20.103 Am I right to assume that 33:20.183 --> 33:22.143 it was also your idea 33:22.463 --> 33:24.543 to send me back home? 33:24.623 --> 33:25.343 Hold on. 33:27.463 --> 33:28.703 Send her back? 33:29.063 --> 33:30.383 I personally elevated 33:30.383 --> 33:32.063 a female Top Scholar with triple firsts, 33:32.063 --> 33:33.343 whom I hold in high regard. 33:33.383 --> 33:34.383 How did she end up 33:34.783 --> 33:36.463 with nowhere to go? 33:36.463 --> 33:37.423 Chancellor, 33:37.823 --> 33:39.063 care to explain? 33:39.783 --> 33:41.063 If I may, Your Majesty. 33:42.383 --> 33:43.703 There are no vacancies right now 33:43.983 --> 33:45.063 across all Six Ministries. 33:45.303 --> 33:46.583 Wouldn't her genius be squandered 33:46.943 --> 33:48.463 on a minor post? 33:49.143 --> 33:49.783 Huo An, 33:49.903 --> 33:50.583 step forward. 33:51.223 --> 33:52.903 Escort Miss Meng back to Shazhou. 33:52.983 --> 33:54.063 Pending further orders. 33:54.463 --> 33:55.463 Since the Six Ministries 33:55.463 --> 33:56.863 can't make room for her. 33:56.863 --> 33:58.583 Get her in the Censorate. 34:01.463 --> 34:03.383 The Black Tiger Gang in Shazhou, 34:03.383 --> 34:05.103 the Tiger Roar Gang in Jingdu, 34:05.103 --> 34:06.623 Ding Chong who aids the wicked, 34:06.623 --> 34:07.903 and that swindler 34:07.903 --> 34:09.103 Dong Shoucai— 34:09.103 --> 34:10.063 How many more of them 34:10.063 --> 34:11.623 are still running rampant across this land? 34:12.703 --> 34:13.463 And you lot 34:14.343 --> 34:15.663 are sitting idly by 34:16.063 --> 34:17.663 as the snakes and vipers are slithering 34:17.663 --> 34:18.903 right under your nose! 34:19.263 --> 34:20.903 What else can I do but set up 34:20.903 --> 34:21.903 a Censorate 34:22.223 --> 34:24.423 to uproot injustice across the realm? 34:24.423 --> 34:25.663 Your Majesty, I'm afraid 34:25.663 --> 34:27.543 you fail to do us justice. 34:27.903 --> 34:28.983 And is it any wiser to set up 34:29.343 --> 34:30.263 a new office staffed by 34:30.263 --> 34:31.943 inexperienced novices? 34:31.983 --> 34:33.703 Tell me, then, what's behind 34:34.823 --> 34:36.223 your eagerness 34:36.223 --> 34:38.583 to banish the talent of my choice from Jingdu? 34:38.823 --> 34:41.263 What is it that you're after? 34:43.223 --> 34:43.903 Your Majesty, 34:44.823 --> 34:46.583 creating a new office is no small matter. 34:46.823 --> 34:47.903 If we rush the decision, 34:47.903 --> 34:49.823 it could cause turmoil in the court. 34:49.823 --> 34:51.343 My decision is final. 34:52.063 --> 34:53.383 From today onward, 34:54.743 --> 34:57.543 Meng Tinghui is appointed Chief of the Censorate, 34:57.663 --> 34:59.583 operating outside the Chancellors and Ministries. 34:59.903 --> 35:01.503 She reports directly to me. 35:10.263 --> 35:11.103 It shall be done. 35:11.503 --> 35:12.823 Thank you, Your Majesty. 35:12.983 --> 35:14.063 If we're assembling a unit, 35:14.783 --> 35:16.903 we need some fresh blood to make it lively. 35:17.383 --> 35:19.743 Shen Zhili, finishing second in the exam, 35:19.743 --> 35:20.943 spends all her days 35:20.943 --> 35:22.983 in the middle of deadwood—how dull is that? 35:23.183 --> 35:24.183 Effective immediately, 35:24.703 --> 35:26.183 she is transferred to the Censorate 35:26.543 --> 35:28.983 to assist Meng Tinghui. 35:30.583 --> 35:31.423 Your Majesty. 35:31.423 --> 35:32.103 Your Majesty, 35:33.063 --> 35:35.023 it is most improper to entrust 35:35.023 --> 35:36.063 such duties on two girls. 35:36.743 --> 35:38.703 You're throwing the court into chaos! 35:38.983 --> 35:39.783 I... 35:40.903 --> 35:43.903 I insist that you revoke this decree. 35:45.903 --> 35:47.903 Your Majesty! Your Majesty! 35:51.903 --> 35:54.663 Chancellor, this Dragon-head Staff of yours 35:55.423 --> 35:57.463 might overshadow the seals of the Six Ministries. 35:57.463 --> 35:59.943 Now, are you taking on the imperial seal, too? 36:00.463 --> 36:02.223 You abuse your seniority 36:02.263 --> 36:03.863 and repeatedly 36:03.863 --> 36:04.583 defy my will. 36:04.583 --> 36:05.743 Do you think 36:07.503 --> 36:09.583 you're beyond my reach? 36:10.943 --> 36:11.903 Your Majesty, 36:13.783 --> 36:15.863 do you have an idea what you're doing? 36:23.943 --> 36:26.223 I was only bantering 36:26.223 --> 36:27.583 with Chancellor Xu. 36:29.663 --> 36:30.583 Hey. 36:32.023 --> 36:33.383 You all didn't actually think 36:33.383 --> 36:35.183 I was going to hurt him, did you? 36:35.183 --> 36:37.983 Chancellor Xu is one of the 36:38.383 --> 36:40.223 pillars of the realm of Great Ning. 36:41.423 --> 36:42.103 Everyone, 36:43.183 --> 36:46.023 let's drink a toast with Chancellor Xu. 36:46.503 --> 36:47.823 Your Majesty, you're drunk. 36:48.263 --> 36:49.103 Your Majesty... 36:49.663 --> 36:50.383 Your Majesty! 36:50.383 --> 36:51.063 Watch out! 36:51.703 --> 36:52.383 Your Majesty! 36:53.023 --> 36:54.703 Keep drinking with him for me. 36:57.423 --> 36:58.943 His Majesty never drinks. 36:59.783 --> 37:01.303 How did he get so drunk today? 37:02.023 --> 37:04.183 A Top Scholar entering court? 37:08.383 --> 37:10.943 More like a trouble brewing! 37:25.703 --> 37:26.343 Your Majesty, 37:26.703 --> 37:27.303 careful. 37:41.463 --> 37:42.223 Your Majesty, 37:42.743 --> 37:43.743 it's very late. 37:44.023 --> 37:45.423 Will Miss Meng still be here? 38:06.383 --> 38:07.183 Commander Huang, 38:07.343 --> 38:08.503 can I see His Majesty? 38:16.103 --> 38:17.183 Thanks for the trouble. 38:48.663 --> 38:49.543 The banquet is over. 38:49.543 --> 38:50.943 Why are you still here? 38:55.703 --> 38:56.983 Your Majesty summoned me. 38:57.503 --> 38:59.023 When did I ever summon you? 38:59.423 --> 39:00.943 If Your Majesty didn't, 39:01.463 --> 39:02.583 I'll take my leave. 39:08.543 --> 39:10.743 Why don't you bow when you see me? 39:16.023 --> 39:19.303 Your subject Meng Tinghui greets Your Majesty. 39:20.063 --> 39:21.463 I was worried 39:21.903 --> 39:23.823 that appointing you Chief of the Censorate 39:23.823 --> 39:24.903 was too bold a move. 39:25.823 --> 39:26.783 Now you've convinced me 39:26.783 --> 39:28.303 that was more than just a whim. 39:28.583 --> 39:30.303 If that's the case, 39:31.503 --> 39:33.023 you wouldn't have feigned 39:33.503 --> 39:34.703 drunkenness tonight, 39:34.783 --> 39:36.383 just to promote me. 39:36.663 --> 39:37.383 Isn't this 39:37.383 --> 39:38.983 Censorate position 39:39.023 --> 39:39.743 everything 39:39.743 --> 39:40.983 you've been cozying up to me for? 39:41.263 --> 39:42.543 I gave you what you wanted. 39:42.743 --> 39:44.343 But the royal favor is ever fickle. 39:44.703 --> 39:46.343 You just rejected me the other day, 39:46.903 --> 39:47.823 yet tonight, 39:47.823 --> 39:49.183 you promoted me openly, despite 39:49.383 --> 39:50.663 the Chancellor's opposition. 39:50.903 --> 39:52.903 I can't read your mind, 39:53.703 --> 39:54.663 and that unsettles me. 39:57.343 --> 39:59.703 I've granted you power beyond the Chancellors. 40:00.063 --> 40:01.383 What more could you want? 40:01.703 --> 40:03.903 Or do you have other intentions? 40:09.703 --> 40:11.783 Your favor seems a blessing at first sight, 40:12.983 --> 40:13.983 but isn't it also 40:13.983 --> 40:16.063 putting a target on my back? 40:16.343 --> 40:17.463 If you insist that I 40:17.463 --> 40:18.583 repay you somehow, 40:19.383 --> 40:20.983 I am willing to risk my life 40:21.743 --> 40:24.263 to fully investigate the Tiger Roar Gang case. 40:24.983 --> 40:26.743 I ordered an investigation into the gang, 40:26.903 --> 40:27.903 but to this day, 40:27.903 --> 40:29.023 there is still no lead. 40:29.423 --> 40:30.903 No just any street gang 40:30.903 --> 40:32.543 gets to be all-powerful. 40:33.063 --> 40:34.303 Are you suspecting that 40:34.303 --> 40:35.463 they have connections in the c... 40:35.463 --> 40:37.103 Don't jump to conclusion until you have proof. 40:41.343 --> 40:42.863 Surprise me with your findings. 40:45.743 --> 40:47.583 I am willing to be your blade. 40:47.903 --> 40:48.583 But it's hard now 40:48.583 --> 40:49.903 to tell friend from foe in the court. 40:50.103 --> 40:51.263 I hope to select 40:51.263 --> 40:52.463 the Censorate's members myself. 40:52.463 --> 40:53.423 Only if 40:53.663 --> 40:54.983 Zhishu and Di Nian 40:55.103 --> 40:56.383 are included. 40:57.303 --> 40:58.063 Of course. 40:58.583 --> 40:59.783 Thanks, Your Majesty. 41:20.463 --> 41:21.023 Over there. 41:30.423 --> 41:30.983 We're here. 41:37.063 --> 41:38.263 Keep digging! 41:38.743 --> 41:39.823 Got it.