1 00:00:09,900 --> 00:00:15,600 ♫ Raising the wine cup, I toast to the boundless sky ♫ 2 00:00:16,266 --> 00:00:21,100 ♫ In talks and laughters are vast mountains and rivers. ♫ 3 00:00:22,666 --> 00:00:27,233 ♫ Love and hate, debt and feuds, have all dissolved. ♫ 4 00:00:28,533 --> 00:00:33,100 ♫ Where's my soul's hometown and my kindred spirits? ♫ 5 00:00:35,566 --> 00:00:40,133 ♫ Seasons rolling by, we dream for harvest. ♫ 6 00:00:41,966 --> 00:00:46,533 ♫ Warriors and warhorses howl across the sky. ♫ 7 00:00:48,333 --> 00:00:52,900 ♫ If only I could turn into the wind, ♫ 8 00:00:53,866 --> 00:01:01,266 ♫ to blow away all the pain in mortal coil. ♫ 9 00:01:01,266 --> 00:01:05,266 ♫ I toast to the blue sky, to courage in solitude, ♫ 10 00:01:05,800 --> 00:01:09,066 ♫ to migrating gooses, to boats heading home. ♫ 11 00:01:09,066 --> 00:01:14,766 ♫ With even three thousand days and nights, ♫ 12 00:01:16,233 --> 00:01:23,433 ♫ Will it be enough to drain this cup I toast to peace? ♫ 13 00:01:26,133 --> 00:01:29,933 [Swords into Plowshares] 14 00:01:31,033 --> 00:01:33,000 [Episode 32] 15 00:01:36,666 --> 00:01:41,133 Guo Wei returns to the capital to serve as Palace Attendant and acting as Chief of the Privy Council. 16 00:01:41,133 --> 00:01:45,433 Guo Rong, as General of the Left Gate Guard, is appointed to oversee the Military Office. 17 00:01:49,433 --> 00:01:51,666 Does anyone have any objections? 18 00:01:52,433 --> 00:01:54,733 This is most appropriate. 19 00:01:55,200 --> 00:01:57,466 Today, we shall inform the Emperor accordingly. 20 00:02:15,166 --> 00:02:17,033 What are you doing? Rebelling? 21 00:02:17,466 --> 00:02:18,966 The Emperor has issued an edict! 22 00:02:21,066 --> 00:02:25,500 Yang Bin, Shi Hongzhao, Wang Zhang, and other traitors 23 00:02:26,033 --> 00:02:28,766 plotted great treason, a crime beyond pardon. 24 00:02:29,233 --> 00:02:30,666 Execute them immediately. 25 00:02:31,433 --> 00:02:31,900 Kill! 26 00:02:57,933 --> 00:02:59,533 The Chancellery proclaims: 27 00:03:00,566 --> 00:03:05,366 The way of order and chaos lies in distinguishing between righteousness and wickedness. 28 00:03:05,400 --> 00:03:09,866 The righteous must be rewarded, and the wicked must be punished. 29 00:03:09,866 --> 00:03:14,800 Yang Bin, Wang Zhang, Shi Hongzhao, and other treacherous ministers, 30 00:03:15,100 --> 00:03:18,733 holding high positions as feudal lords, have violated strict laws. 31 00:03:19,300 --> 00:03:23,966 The relevant authorities have deliberated on their crimes: Plotting great treason, crime one. 32 00:03:24,933 --> 00:03:27,466 Abusing power and manipulating authority, crime two. 33 00:03:28,400 --> 00:03:30,800 Showing no regard for the people's welfare, crime three. 34 00:03:31,700 --> 00:03:34,333 Appointing people based on personal favoritism, crime four. 35 00:03:35,633 --> 00:03:38,533 Excluding the virtuous and capable, crime five. 36 00:03:39,433 --> 00:03:42,366 Secretly harboring treacherous flatterers, crime six. 37 00:03:43,066 --> 00:03:46,133 Consulting public opinion, their crimes are clear. 38 00:03:46,533 --> 00:03:48,766 Heaven and mankind are outraged. 39 00:03:48,800 --> 00:03:51,266 They deserve the ultimate punishment. 40 00:03:51,266 --> 00:03:53,420 [Su Yugui] Therefore, the meritorious official Li Ye 41 00:03:53,420 --> 00:03:55,966 [Su Yugui] is specially ordered to execute these three villains 42 00:03:56,000 --> 00:03:58,100 to serve as a warning to others. 43 00:03:58,100 --> 00:04:00,166 Let those in charge carry this out. 44 00:04:08,000 --> 00:04:08,533 I 45 00:04:09,866 --> 00:04:13,733 originally considered them old retainers of the late Emperor, 46 00:04:14,333 --> 00:04:16,600 and thus showed forbearance everywhere. 47 00:04:17,166 --> 00:04:22,633 Yet their greed knows no bounds, and they grew worse. 48 00:04:24,066 --> 00:04:24,600 I, 49 00:04:25,933 --> 00:04:29,766 for the sake of the state, and for the sake of the common people, 50 00:04:32,100 --> 00:04:33,100 had no choice, 51 00:04:35,433 --> 00:04:36,666 but to execute them. 52 00:04:44,900 --> 00:04:48,533 When the late Emperor was still a prince, 53 00:04:48,533 --> 00:04:52,900 Minister Su was the foremost strategist in his retinue. 54 00:04:54,366 --> 00:04:57,800 The position of Chief of the Privy Council cannot be held by anyone, 55 00:04:59,133 --> 00:05:00,533 but you, Minister. 56 00:05:06,466 --> 00:05:12,133 Your Majesty, I am not versed in military affairs and hold no favor or prestige among the generals. 57 00:05:13,700 --> 00:05:20,333 I request that Deputy Chief Guo Wei be appointed as the Chief, to command all internal and external military forces. 58 00:05:23,866 --> 00:05:24,800 Guo Wei? 59 00:05:26,933 --> 00:05:27,433 Who? 60 00:05:30,133 --> 00:05:30,766 Young Master? 61 00:05:31,500 --> 00:05:32,100 Close the door. 62 00:05:34,266 --> 00:05:34,733 Aunt Qingyun, 63 00:05:35,700 --> 00:05:37,333 it's dangerous now. 64 00:05:38,066 --> 00:05:40,333 If we don't leave the city, it will truly be too late. 65 00:05:41,433 --> 00:05:43,233 Pass the order: prepare the carriages. 66 00:05:43,833 --> 00:05:48,133 All one hundred and sixty-eight members of the household is to pack and set off. 67 00:05:48,133 --> 00:05:49,800 [Zhang Qingyun, Guo Wei's Concubine] Prepare two carriages first. 68 00:05:49,833 --> 00:05:52,233 [Zhang Qingyun, Guo Wei's Concubine] You and Wei, you take the children and leave first, 69 00:05:52,800 --> 00:05:54,500 including Tong and Xin. 70 00:05:55,066 --> 00:05:59,700 Apart from food and water for the journey, everything else is worldly possessions. Do not bring any. 71 00:05:59,700 --> 00:06:01,733 Be ready within half an hour, 72 00:06:02,500 --> 00:06:03,766 and depart the city immediately. 73 00:06:04,433 --> 00:06:08,366 I advised your father back then not to become that so-called Emperor. 74 00:06:08,700 --> 00:06:12,600 What was not good with being a military governor in Taiyuan? 75 00:06:12,600 --> 00:06:14,433 Is this throne easy to sit on? 76 00:06:16,166 --> 00:06:21,766 In times like these, which emperor is not a heartless person who abandons parents above and wife and children below? 77 00:06:22,900 --> 00:06:23,533 But you, 78 00:06:25,066 --> 00:06:28,666 have done such a foolish thing, destroying your own foundation. 79 00:06:30,100 --> 00:06:30,900 In this world, 80 00:06:32,833 --> 00:06:35,600 where is there a place for you and me, mother and son? 81 00:06:35,733 --> 00:06:38,666 I did it for the sake of the state and the people. 82 00:06:48,900 --> 00:06:51,766 How dare you speak of the state and the people! 83 00:06:54,700 --> 00:06:57,433 The state and the people your father left behind 84 00:06:59,833 --> 00:07:03,266 have now been wrecked by you to an extremely dangerous situation. 85 00:07:05,700 --> 00:07:08,133 Mother, please calm down. 86 00:07:08,133 --> 00:07:10,166 This was not originally my intention. 87 00:07:11,800 --> 00:07:16,000 It was truly Yang Bin and others who acted arrogantly in court and intimidated all officials. 88 00:07:18,500 --> 00:07:22,333 Now they even want to control affairs within the palace. 89 00:07:24,166 --> 00:07:30,066 I do not wish to be like Emperor Yang of Sui, but neither do I wish to be like Emperor Zhaozong of Tang. 90 00:07:33,533 --> 00:07:35,633 If you truly do not wish to be Emperor Zhaozong of Tang, 91 00:07:39,033 --> 00:07:46,433 then recall Guo Wei and entrust all state affairs to him and Lord Feng. 92 00:07:49,666 --> 00:07:50,833 If you and I, we two, 93 00:07:51,466 --> 00:07:52,900 wish to survive, 94 00:07:55,600 --> 00:07:56,300 now, 95 00:07:59,133 --> 00:08:01,000 this is the only way. 96 00:08:09,433 --> 00:08:13,300 The Empress Dowager and Minister Su still trust Guo Wei. 97 00:08:14,166 --> 00:08:17,500 It is because his rebellious intentions have not yet been revealed. 98 00:08:19,166 --> 00:08:22,666 At present, two matters are of utmost importance. 99 00:08:23,466 --> 00:08:26,866 First, as proposed by the Empress Dowager and Minister Su, 100 00:08:27,466 --> 00:08:32,633 send an edict to Yexia, summoning Guo Wei back to preside over state affairs. 101 00:08:35,500 --> 00:08:36,900 And the second? 102 00:08:36,900 --> 00:08:41,866 Use the personal attendants of the Military Office to surround the Guo residence in the capital, 103 00:08:41,866 --> 00:08:44,700 and control his relatives, women, and children. 104 00:08:48,600 --> 00:08:50,333 If Guo Wei is willing to return, 105 00:08:51,633 --> 00:08:54,933 then he is a loyal minister who can be entrusted with great matters. 106 00:08:56,666 --> 00:08:57,800 And if he refuses? 107 00:08:58,433 --> 00:09:03,000 Then he is resisting the Emperor's edict, and his rebellious heart is already exposed. 108 00:09:04,466 --> 00:09:06,400 The Empress Dowager and Minister Su 109 00:09:07,133 --> 00:09:08,766 will no longer stand with him. 110 00:09:12,633 --> 00:09:13,133 Your Majesty, 111 00:09:14,766 --> 00:09:17,633 the Military Office's scouts saw today 112 00:09:19,433 --> 00:09:21,066 that Guo Rong has returned to his residence. 113 00:09:26,133 --> 00:09:28,530 Young Master, the Eldest Young Master Zhao has arrived. 114 00:09:30,633 --> 00:09:31,166 Kuangyin. 115 00:09:33,033 --> 00:09:33,500 Madam, 116 00:09:33,933 --> 00:09:34,500 Sister-in-law. 117 00:09:36,866 --> 00:09:38,066 What has happened? 118 00:09:38,066 --> 00:09:40,633 What happened? I wanted to ask you the same. 119 00:09:40,633 --> 00:09:44,866 While on duty today, I heard that men from the Military Office are coming to seal off the residence. 120 00:09:44,866 --> 00:09:48,300 I rushed here specifically to inform you and give warning, so you can prepare early. 121 00:09:48,300 --> 00:09:48,766 But you... 122 00:09:51,700 --> 00:09:54,200 What misunderstanding is there between Chief Guo and the court? 123 00:09:57,266 --> 00:09:57,966 Tell me! 124 00:09:58,033 --> 00:09:59,366 The Military Office will be here soon. 125 00:10:01,933 --> 00:10:02,433 Rong. 126 00:10:11,733 --> 00:10:12,366 Since 127 00:10:13,700 --> 00:10:15,666 the Military Office's men are about to arrive, 128 00:10:18,133 --> 00:10:19,333 if the residence is empty, 129 00:10:20,733 --> 00:10:23,133 wouldn't that confirm our rebellious intentions? 130 00:10:49,433 --> 00:10:50,266 We... 131 00:10:55,300 --> 00:10:56,400 we will not leave. 132 00:10:58,200 --> 00:10:59,600 But you must go. 133 00:11:00,700 --> 00:11:03,466 You alone must leave, even if you have to fight your way out. 134 00:11:05,500 --> 00:11:06,300 Madam, rest assured, 135 00:11:07,300 --> 00:11:08,733 I will escort Rong out of the city. 136 00:11:21,600 --> 00:11:22,700 Tell your Father Marshal: 137 00:11:23,533 --> 00:11:25,333 if the situation at court eases, 138 00:11:26,500 --> 00:11:28,433 we will guard this home for him, 139 00:11:29,666 --> 00:11:30,866 and await your return. 140 00:11:32,600 --> 00:11:35,933 If the situation at court deteriorates, 141 00:11:35,933 --> 00:11:37,466 leading to unspeakable events, 142 00:11:40,766 --> 00:11:42,400 let him avenge us. 143 00:12:24,000 --> 00:12:25,233 Keep a close watch on them. 144 00:12:25,233 --> 00:12:26,600 Don't let a single one escape. 145 00:12:26,600 --> 00:12:27,200 Yes! 146 00:12:29,900 --> 00:12:31,366 Why are the Imperial Guards here? 147 00:12:35,666 --> 00:12:36,366 Stop! 148 00:12:39,833 --> 00:12:40,533 Let them pass. 149 00:12:40,533 --> 00:12:41,870 Which office are you from? 150 00:12:42,700 --> 00:12:43,533 You know who I am? 151 00:12:43,533 --> 00:12:44,033 Who are you? 152 00:12:44,366 --> 00:12:45,200 You don't, right? 153 00:12:45,200 --> 00:12:45,633 Who is this? 154 00:12:45,766 --> 00:12:46,300 Comrades! 155 00:12:46,833 --> 00:12:47,566 Go to hell! 156 00:12:48,933 --> 00:12:49,670 Come here! 157 00:12:51,833 --> 00:12:52,233 Let's go! 158 00:12:54,233 --> 00:12:55,100 What happened? 159 00:12:56,033 --> 00:12:57,730 Why are they fighting? 160 00:13:19,766 --> 00:13:23,133 Kuangyin, your great kindness is beyond words of thanks. 161 00:13:23,133 --> 00:13:24,833 Inquire after Chief's health. 162 00:13:24,833 --> 00:13:25,300 Mount up! 163 00:13:54,500 --> 00:13:57,233 Remember to record the newly added fodder. 164 00:13:57,233 --> 00:13:57,866 Hurry up! 165 00:14:04,333 --> 00:14:05,833 Left Gate Guard on business! 166 00:14:05,833 --> 00:14:08,033 Wu Fu, Stationmaster of Chenqiao, pay respects to you. 167 00:14:08,033 --> 00:14:09,733 Get me a fresh horse! 168 00:14:09,733 --> 00:14:10,200 Quickly! 169 00:14:11,833 --> 00:14:14,200 Have you seen any imperial envoys passing? 170 00:14:14,200 --> 00:14:15,466 He passed by just two hours ago. 171 00:14:19,133 --> 00:14:22,833 Officer! I have prepared wine and food. Would you like to eat something before leaving? 172 00:14:22,833 --> 00:14:23,333 No thanks! 173 00:14:23,466 --> 00:14:24,200 But... Sir... 174 00:14:34,133 --> 00:14:35,133 Quick, bring a horse! 175 00:14:36,100 --> 00:14:36,633 Quick! 176 00:14:42,233 --> 00:14:44,133 Left Gate Guard on official business. 177 00:14:44,133 --> 00:14:45,433 Sir, are you alright? 178 00:14:45,533 --> 00:14:45,800 Go. 179 00:14:45,833 --> 00:14:46,300 Have a rest. 180 00:14:46,300 --> 00:14:47,100 Change horses. 181 00:14:47,100 --> 00:14:48,100 Quick, bring a horse! 182 00:14:53,533 --> 00:14:54,133 Sir, 183 00:14:54,733 --> 00:15:00,266 the imperial envoy passed by just a quarter of an hour ago. 184 00:15:00,266 --> 00:15:00,933 Your leg... 185 00:15:12,133 --> 00:15:13,830 The court's imperial envoy has entered the city. 186 00:15:26,766 --> 00:15:27,166 General, 187 00:15:29,466 --> 00:15:30,400 General, are you alright? 188 00:15:30,433 --> 00:15:31,733 Where is the imperial envoy? 189 00:15:31,733 --> 00:15:32,600 Just entered the city. 190 00:15:38,933 --> 00:15:40,033 Go, quickly! 191 00:15:42,066 --> 00:15:42,566 Move aside! 192 00:15:52,100 --> 00:15:55,666 The court's imperial envoy is currently proclaiming the decree. 193 00:15:55,666 --> 00:15:56,766 By order of the Chancellery: 194 00:15:56,766 --> 00:16:01,333 The state always appoints its ministers with cautious evaluation for the affairs to be handled. 195 00:16:01,333 --> 00:16:05,133 responsibilities apportioned to the local lords, to issue governance there. 196 00:16:05,500 --> 00:16:10,370 Who would have thought that Chief of Privy Council, Guo Wei, occupying Yexia, would harbor rebellion, 197 00:16:10,370 --> 00:16:12,933 commanding the army, displays treacherous ambition, 198 00:16:12,933 --> 00:16:16,033 causing the foundation of the state to shake, state facing peril. 199 00:16:16,300 --> 00:16:20,100 It should have been strictly deliberated by the relevant authorities, 200 00:16:20,200 --> 00:16:22,233 to fully implement the punishments. 201 00:16:23,133 --> 00:16:25,966 However, considering Guo Wei's past contributions, there is also... 202 00:16:48,766 --> 00:16:53,466 According to the court's regulations, when appointing or transferring military governors, 203 00:16:53,466 --> 00:16:57,233 there should be the joint signature and endorsement from the Chief. 204 00:16:57,233 --> 00:16:58,333 On this edict, 205 00:16:59,366 --> 00:17:02,000 why is Minister Yang's signature missing? 206 00:17:04,900 --> 00:17:05,433 Father! 207 00:17:07,000 --> 00:17:07,466 Father! 208 00:17:09,500 --> 00:17:10,000 Father. 209 00:17:10,733 --> 00:17:11,233 Father! 210 00:17:12,666 --> 00:17:13,830 Something happened! 211 00:17:15,433 --> 00:17:16,500 Rong! Rong! Rong! 212 00:17:21,300 --> 00:17:22,500 Within the palace gates, 213 00:17:23,266 --> 00:17:24,600 to assault and kill a chief minister... 214 00:17:25,500 --> 00:17:27,566 This is truly outrageous. 215 00:17:32,433 --> 00:17:35,333 The envoy who delivered the edict was handed over to Jun, 216 00:17:36,633 --> 00:17:37,666 and likely tortured. 217 00:17:47,266 --> 00:17:47,866 Father. 218 00:17:51,833 --> 00:17:53,770 Have you thought this through? 219 00:18:06,700 --> 00:18:09,700 There are traitors in the court, 220 00:18:09,700 --> 00:18:12,600 holding the Emperor hostage, and harming ministers. 221 00:18:15,033 --> 00:18:19,700 We, having received the late emperor's grace, absolutely cannot stand idly by. 222 00:18:19,700 --> 00:18:24,633 Starting today, we will raise troops and return to the capital, to purge the evil around the sovereign! 223 00:18:25,400 --> 00:18:31,233 Raise troops and return to the capital, to purge the evil around the sovereign! 224 00:18:56,333 --> 00:18:57,333 Guo Wei has rebelled! 225 00:18:57,933 --> 00:19:00,233 Have the troops in Hebei all rebelled as well? 226 00:19:00,233 --> 00:19:01,733 Is he trying to emulate Du Zhongwei? 227 00:19:01,933 --> 00:19:03,366 What kind of person is Du Zhongwei?! 228 00:19:03,933 --> 00:19:05,600 He is emulating the late emperor. 229 00:19:06,266 --> 00:19:09,100 If we had known today would come, why did we act as we did back then? 230 00:19:09,100 --> 00:19:10,600 Lord Guo is not Lord Du. 231 00:19:10,733 --> 00:19:13,433 If you want to negotiate peace, don't resort to the sword. 232 00:19:13,433 --> 00:19:17,833 Only by being able to fight can one speak of peace. In the current military, who is a match for him? 233 00:19:18,200 --> 00:19:18,766 Right. 234 00:19:20,000 --> 00:19:20,566 Lord Feng, 235 00:19:21,466 --> 00:19:22,033 Minister Su. 236 00:19:26,933 --> 00:19:28,666 What exactly does Lord Guo intend to do? 237 00:19:29,333 --> 00:19:30,933 What does Guo Wei intend to do? 238 00:19:32,000 --> 00:19:34,400 Your Majesty should go ask Guo Wei. 239 00:19:35,300 --> 00:19:36,633 I do not know. 240 00:19:39,666 --> 00:19:42,500 Your Majesty, what Lord Feng says is absolutely correct. 241 00:19:43,300 --> 00:19:45,766 Guo Wei was entrusted by the late emperor. 242 00:19:46,400 --> 00:19:48,066 Speaking of which, he is not an outsider. 243 00:19:49,000 --> 00:19:51,000 He is one of us, easier to talk to. 244 00:19:51,866 --> 00:19:56,266 Your Majesty might consider sending an envoy out of the city to his camp to inquire. 245 00:19:57,400 --> 00:19:58,133 Inquire about what? 246 00:19:59,133 --> 00:20:00,666 Ask about his conditions. 247 00:20:03,933 --> 00:20:04,700 What conditions? 248 00:20:06,100 --> 00:20:08,600 The conditions for withdrawing his troops. 249 00:20:31,466 --> 00:20:34,133 I request the imperial envoy to convey to the Emperor: 250 00:20:34,133 --> 00:20:36,366 There is order between sovereign and subject. 251 00:20:38,033 --> 00:20:42,200 The provisions for the three armies are all salaries from the imperial court. 252 00:20:44,300 --> 00:20:47,000 We dare not discuss any conditions with Your Majesty. 253 00:20:47,000 --> 00:20:47,566 However, 254 00:20:48,466 --> 00:20:49,933 all matters have cause and effect. 255 00:20:51,033 --> 00:20:54,733 So many important ministers and chancellors were unjustly executed. 256 00:20:54,733 --> 00:20:57,133 There must be an explanation to the realm. 257 00:20:57,866 --> 00:21:00,766 We dare not offend the Emperor's carriage, 258 00:21:01,433 --> 00:21:02,266 but we request 259 00:21:03,900 --> 00:21:05,800 Palatine Li of Military Office, 260 00:21:06,633 --> 00:21:11,266 to come to the camp to explain clearly to everyone. 261 00:21:12,500 --> 00:21:13,433 Lord Guo says 262 00:21:13,900 --> 00:21:15,333 there is only this one condition. 263 00:21:18,333 --> 00:21:18,866 You may leave. 264 00:21:20,233 --> 00:21:20,733 Yes. 265 00:21:28,300 --> 00:21:28,833 Your Majesty, 266 00:21:30,300 --> 00:21:32,700 this is Guo Wei's delaying tactic. 267 00:21:33,633 --> 00:21:34,633 Delaying tactic? 268 00:21:35,466 --> 00:21:40,966 The capital's garrison troops are all old followers and veterans brought by the late emperor from Hedong. 269 00:21:41,533 --> 00:21:44,033 Their hearts are with the Liu family, loyalty unwavering. 270 00:21:44,266 --> 00:21:46,133 They are fully capable of fighting Guo Wei. 271 00:21:47,266 --> 00:21:50,000 Guo Wei's forces are all rebels; 272 00:21:50,633 --> 00:21:54,366 they rebelled against the capital because they were deceived and misled. 273 00:21:54,866 --> 00:21:57,600 Their provisions and supplies are naturally insufficient. 274 00:21:58,633 --> 00:22:02,033 Once Your Majesty issues an edict denouncing them as traitors, 275 00:22:02,666 --> 00:22:05,700 fear will set in, and their morale will surely collapse. 276 00:22:06,700 --> 00:22:09,633 Guo Wei is merely suppressing it forcefully. 277 00:22:10,533 --> 00:22:12,233 If we engage in battle now, 278 00:22:12,666 --> 00:22:15,300 his forces will inevitably scatter and be defeated. 279 00:22:16,233 --> 00:22:18,500 It's not that Guo Wei doesn't want to fight, 280 00:22:19,033 --> 00:22:23,000 it's that he truly cannot fight, he dares not fight. 281 00:22:23,866 --> 00:22:26,833 Whether he wants to fight is unknown, 282 00:22:26,833 --> 00:22:29,300 but today in the court, as you, my uncle, witnessed, 283 00:22:30,133 --> 00:22:34,733 from Lord Feng and Minister Su downwards, all civil and military officials do not want to fight. 284 00:22:34,733 --> 00:22:35,866 Even the Empress Dowager... 285 00:22:35,866 --> 00:22:39,100 The court's civil and military officials dare not fight Guo Wei to the death 286 00:22:39,100 --> 00:22:42,033 because they believe there is still room for maneuver. 287 00:22:42,466 --> 00:22:44,900 It hasn't reached the point of life or death. 288 00:22:45,400 --> 00:22:48,400 Everyone still harbors thoughts of retreat. 289 00:22:48,933 --> 00:22:50,666 As long as we cut off their retreat, 290 00:22:51,400 --> 00:22:54,966 everyone will naturally obey Your Majesty's decree 291 00:22:55,400 --> 00:22:56,500 and fight Guo Wei 292 00:22:56,566 --> 00:22:57,866 to the death. 293 00:22:59,266 --> 00:23:00,066 Retreat... 294 00:23:04,666 --> 00:23:06,800 How can we cut off their retreat? 295 00:23:20,833 --> 00:23:21,533 Mother. 296 00:23:36,100 --> 00:23:37,166 Mother. 297 00:23:37,533 --> 00:23:39,433 Mother. 298 00:23:49,433 --> 00:23:50,333 Beast! 299 00:24:04,766 --> 00:24:05,900 Mother! 300 00:24:13,033 --> 00:24:14,166 No! 301 00:24:47,833 --> 00:24:48,533 Guo Wei, 302 00:24:50,133 --> 00:24:51,133 is about to enter the city. 303 00:25:33,466 --> 00:25:35,300 Let the battle begin. 304 00:25:38,433 --> 00:25:41,966 In 950 AD, the third year of the Qianyou period of Later Han, 305 00:25:42,766 --> 00:25:47,100 Liu Chengyou, the last emperor of Later Han, plotted to eliminate the regent ministers 306 00:25:47,100 --> 00:25:50,500 and exterminate Guo Wei's entire family, forcing him to rebel. 307 00:25:51,666 --> 00:25:53,400 Guo Wei led his troops into the palace. 308 00:25:53,400 --> 00:25:57,933 While fleeing in panic, Liu Chengyou was killed by his own subordinates. 309 00:26:19,133 --> 00:26:20,066 Spare me, Minister! 310 00:26:20,400 --> 00:26:21,133 Spare me, Minister! 311 00:26:21,866 --> 00:26:22,766 Spare me, Minister! 312 00:26:23,433 --> 00:26:23,933 Minister! 313 00:26:24,633 --> 00:26:25,533 Spare me, Minister! 314 00:26:26,333 --> 00:26:26,833 Spare me! 315 00:26:27,866 --> 00:26:28,366 Minister! 316 00:26:29,066 --> 00:26:29,566 Minister! 317 00:26:29,933 --> 00:26:30,833 Spare me, Minister! 318 00:26:31,533 --> 00:26:32,033 Spare me! 319 00:26:33,066 --> 00:26:33,500 Minister! 320 00:26:33,766 --> 00:26:34,533 Oh, Minister! 321 00:26:34,533 --> 00:26:35,266 Spare me, Minister! 322 00:26:36,033 --> 00:26:36,466 Minister... 323 00:26:37,200 --> 00:26:38,066 Spare me, Minister! 324 00:26:38,833 --> 00:26:39,500 Have mercy! 325 00:27:20,466 --> 00:27:22,900 The Emperor has abandoned the state and died. 326 00:27:24,000 --> 00:27:25,466 What is to become of the officials? 327 00:27:27,233 --> 00:27:29,233 We do our duty. 328 00:27:32,233 --> 00:27:33,500 It is not the first time, 329 00:27:35,766 --> 00:27:37,033 nor is he the first one. 330 00:27:54,733 --> 00:27:56,533 We invite Lord Guo to enter the palace. 331 00:27:56,700 --> 00:27:58,533 We invite Lord Guo to enter the palace. 332 00:28:12,866 --> 00:28:14,133 As a subject, 333 00:28:15,566 --> 00:28:17,633 I have no right to lead troops through the palace gates. 334 00:28:20,133 --> 00:28:21,966 Rong, Kuangyin, come with me. 335 00:28:22,466 --> 00:28:23,933 The rest of you, 336 00:28:24,400 --> 00:28:25,766 wait here. 337 00:28:26,300 --> 00:28:27,166 Yes, sir. 338 00:29:18,833 --> 00:29:21,333 I, Acting Minister of Works, 339 00:29:22,066 --> 00:29:24,966 Military Governor of Yedu and Tianxiong Army, 340 00:29:25,566 --> 00:29:29,466 Chief of Privy Council, Chancellor of the Secretariat-Chancellery, 341 00:29:29,466 --> 00:29:30,166 Guo Wei, 342 00:29:31,000 --> 00:29:33,266 pay my respects to the Empress Dowager. 343 00:29:38,533 --> 00:29:41,300 The Empress Dowager has issued a decree. No, no... 344 00:29:41,300 --> 00:29:42,766 Her Majesty says, 345 00:29:43,100 --> 00:29:45,833 "Please, Guo Wei... come in." 346 00:30:05,833 --> 00:30:10,530 Your Lordship is esteemed throughout the land, admired by scholars and commoners alike. 347 00:30:10,530 --> 00:30:14,533 Your word alone can decide the grand course. 348 00:30:14,533 --> 00:30:17,333 We implore Your Lordship to lead the petition for accession. 349 00:30:19,500 --> 00:30:20,566 You draft it. 350 00:30:21,300 --> 00:30:22,300 I will sign it. 351 00:30:28,200 --> 00:30:30,366 We used to mock the Hongchu for ending up like that. 352 00:30:32,400 --> 00:30:34,000 Yet barely a year has passed, 353 00:30:35,300 --> 00:30:36,533 circumstances have forced 354 00:30:39,400 --> 00:30:41,566 Lord Guo to actually take this same step. 355 00:30:42,466 --> 00:30:43,733 My second son was useless. 356 00:30:46,033 --> 00:30:47,133 He ruined himself, 357 00:30:49,933 --> 00:30:51,366 and he destroyed your entire family. 358 00:30:52,833 --> 00:30:53,966 Zhiyuan and I, 359 00:30:55,400 --> 00:30:56,233 have wronged you. 360 00:30:57,866 --> 00:30:58,400 Here, 361 00:31:00,933 --> 00:31:02,033 we offer you our apology. 362 00:31:06,333 --> 00:31:08,433 The state is in turmoil, 363 00:31:08,433 --> 00:31:10,566 the nation faces peril. 364 00:31:10,566 --> 00:31:12,733 His Majesty has just passed away. 365 00:31:12,733 --> 00:31:17,166 I humbly beg the Empress Dowager to issue a decree, to have Prince Chen ascend the throne, 366 00:31:18,400 --> 00:31:20,570 to calm the hearts of the people. 367 00:31:27,100 --> 00:31:27,966 Wei, 368 00:31:31,466 --> 00:31:32,733 Zhiyuan and I 369 00:31:35,433 --> 00:31:37,233 have only that one son left. 370 00:31:38,533 --> 00:31:39,333 Back then, 371 00:31:41,100 --> 00:31:43,333 when we were military governors in Taiyuan, 372 00:31:45,300 --> 00:31:46,033 my family 373 00:31:47,633 --> 00:31:51,900 was one of paternal kindness and filial piety, brothers were friendly and respectful. 374 00:31:54,433 --> 00:31:56,766 The whole household lived in harmony and warmth. 375 00:32:01,200 --> 00:32:03,466 But only three years after entering Bianliang, 376 00:32:06,000 --> 00:32:06,866 my husband, 377 00:32:07,700 --> 00:32:09,133 and both my sons, 378 00:32:11,033 --> 00:32:12,133 are gone. 379 00:32:28,933 --> 00:32:29,866 Wei, 380 00:32:43,533 --> 00:32:44,833 for Zhiyuan's sake, 381 00:32:47,533 --> 00:32:49,266 leave a descendant for Liu's family. 382 00:33:51,100 --> 00:33:53,566 The Empress Dowager has decreed: 383 00:33:53,566 --> 00:33:56,300 The late Emperor has passed, the throne is vacant. 384 00:33:56,300 --> 00:33:59,333 Prince Chen has long been ill and cannot rule the realm. 385 00:34:00,633 --> 00:34:06,700 Liu Yun, the Duke of Xiangyin, has long governed an external commandery, renowned for virtue. 386 00:34:06,700 --> 00:34:08,700 He may be welcomed as the heir. 387 00:34:14,166 --> 00:34:17,233 If Lord Guo himself does not take the throne, who dares to? 388 00:34:17,233 --> 00:34:18,466 What is the meaning of this? 389 00:34:19,166 --> 00:34:22,866 Is he angered that we have not drafted the petition urging his accession? 390 00:34:22,866 --> 00:34:26,766 Guo Wei then proclaimed the decree of Empress Dowager Li, the birth mother of Liu Chengyou. 391 00:34:27,100 --> 00:34:30,833 It established Liu Yun, then Military Governor of Xuzhou, as the heir. 392 00:34:32,333 --> 00:34:32,966 Liu Yun 393 00:34:33,466 --> 00:34:36,366 was the son of Liu Chong, younger brother of Liu Zhiyuan's. 394 00:34:37,166 --> 00:34:39,566 Yun was adopted by Liu Zhiyuan as a foster son. 395 00:34:41,833 --> 00:34:43,900 Liu Yun is the eldest son of Liu Chong of Hedong. 396 00:34:44,000 --> 00:34:45,266 If he becomes Emperor, 397 00:34:46,166 --> 00:34:49,400 those he trusts will inevitably be those officials from Hedong. 398 00:34:50,133 --> 00:34:53,533 After all our hard work, we would merely be making a profit for others. 399 00:34:54,566 --> 00:34:56,033 Some things in this world... 400 00:34:57,033 --> 00:34:58,066 once begun, 401 00:34:59,433 --> 00:35:01,300 there is absolutely no stopping. 402 00:35:02,333 --> 00:35:06,470 So many comrades follow him, in this treason that could wipe out our clans, 403 00:35:06,470 --> 00:35:08,633 all to seek wealth and advancement. 404 00:35:08,633 --> 00:35:10,700 Yet he lightly speaks of stepping aside. 405 00:35:11,566 --> 00:35:13,066 Where does that leave us? 406 00:35:13,700 --> 00:35:15,233 No matter whose child it is, 407 00:35:17,033 --> 00:35:21,766 if he has no merit for the realm, he simply cannot be Emperor. 408 00:35:27,900 --> 00:35:30,533 If the Duke of Xiangyin truly becomes Emperor, 409 00:35:31,533 --> 00:35:32,833 then all of us here, 410 00:35:33,900 --> 00:35:35,666 every last one, 411 00:35:37,266 --> 00:35:39,133 will certainly meet no good end. 412 00:35:41,100 --> 00:35:41,966 Gentlemen, 413 00:35:43,900 --> 00:35:45,533 blood has already been shed. 414 00:35:47,133 --> 00:35:49,533 The enmity is already forged. 415 00:35:51,233 --> 00:35:52,766 We have come this far today, 416 00:35:53,433 --> 00:35:54,733 there is no turning back. 417 00:35:56,633 --> 00:35:57,433 Only, 418 00:35:59,133 --> 00:36:00,466 only Lord Guo, 419 00:36:01,133 --> 00:36:02,600 can become Emperor. 420 00:36:03,033 --> 00:36:06,200 Regarding the Duke of Xiangyin, how should we handle him? 421 00:36:07,833 --> 00:36:09,000 At this point, 422 00:36:10,266 --> 00:36:11,500 I'm afraid we cannot let him live. 423 00:36:12,133 --> 00:36:13,533 All your hard work, 424 00:36:14,833 --> 00:36:16,833 is for the great righteousness of the state, 425 00:36:17,500 --> 00:36:21,566 and also for Lord Guo and his son's family vengeance... 426 00:36:22,400 --> 00:36:23,466 We cannot accept 427 00:36:24,300 --> 00:36:30,433 that after all the hard fighting for Lord Guo, we each end up with no future. 428 00:36:35,700 --> 00:36:36,700 In for a penny, 429 00:36:37,733 --> 00:36:38,766 in for a pound. 430 00:36:40,066 --> 00:36:41,100 It's actually simple. 431 00:36:46,130 --> 00:36:48,100 I will go to Xuzhou to welcome the carriage. 432 00:36:48,100 --> 00:36:50,733 On the road, horses can get spooked. 433 00:36:51,000 --> 00:36:54,166 If someone falls and dies, it's a common accident. 434 00:36:56,000 --> 00:36:57,466 I entrust this matter to you. 435 00:37:03,533 --> 00:37:04,000 My lord, 436 00:37:04,666 --> 00:37:06,000 Minister Wang requests an audience. 437 00:37:08,800 --> 00:37:09,533 Let him in. 438 00:37:10,100 --> 00:37:10,500 Yes. 439 00:37:16,400 --> 00:37:17,466 You haven't rested yet. 440 00:37:20,666 --> 00:37:23,166 What brings you here, Jun? 441 00:37:23,166 --> 00:37:24,033 You see, 442 00:37:24,633 --> 00:37:28,100 the Emperor has passed away, the realm is in turmoil. 443 00:37:28,933 --> 00:37:30,666 Sending someone to Xuzhou at this time, 444 00:37:31,266 --> 00:37:32,266 if we are not careful, 445 00:37:33,433 --> 00:37:34,700 I fear it might cause trouble. 446 00:37:37,266 --> 00:37:38,966 What do you mean, Wang Jun? 447 00:37:40,300 --> 00:37:41,966 Wang Yin has long served in the army, 448 00:37:42,433 --> 00:37:43,566 a seasoned veteran. 449 00:37:44,833 --> 00:37:47,900 Even if something happens, he can control the situation. 450 00:37:48,833 --> 00:37:51,366 We must trouble him a bit: 451 00:37:51,900 --> 00:37:54,300 take two thousand troops to welcome the new Emperor, 452 00:38:00,333 --> 00:38:04,533 and let him gain the merit of supporting the new sovereign. 453 00:38:07,633 --> 00:38:12,700 I will enter the palace early tomorrow to request the Empress Dowager to issue the imperial decree, 454 00:38:12,700 --> 00:38:16,466 ordering Wang Yin to go to Xuzhou to welcome the carriage. 455 00:38:16,466 --> 00:38:19,633 With the Empress Dowager's decree, it will be even more proper. 456 00:38:19,633 --> 00:38:21,433 You are also a man of age. 457 00:38:22,800 --> 00:38:25,400 In all matters the younger generation can handle, 458 00:38:25,400 --> 00:38:27,233 you should let go when it's time. 459 00:38:28,333 --> 00:38:30,066 When it's time for you to rest, 460 00:38:30,833 --> 00:38:31,900 do not force yourself. 461 00:38:33,800 --> 00:38:34,700 Especially, 462 00:38:36,666 --> 00:38:37,900 you can no longer stay up late. 463 00:38:40,866 --> 00:38:41,533 I got it. 464 00:38:42,133 --> 00:38:42,600 Then, 465 00:38:43,000 --> 00:38:44,033 please rest early. 466 00:38:54,166 --> 00:38:54,666 Kuangyin! 467 00:38:55,300 --> 00:38:55,933 I am here. 468 00:38:58,866 --> 00:39:00,566 What are your orders, lord? 469 00:39:00,566 --> 00:39:01,600 Prepare my horse. 470 00:39:02,533 --> 00:39:03,670 I am going into the city. 471 00:39:03,800 --> 00:39:04,166 Yes. 472 00:39:09,200 --> 00:39:12,433 [The Secretariat–Chancellery] 473 00:39:32,700 --> 00:39:34,700 Wei, coming here in the dead of night... 474 00:39:36,066 --> 00:39:39,000 Do you want the life of the Duke of Xiangyin, 475 00:39:40,433 --> 00:39:41,466 or do you want 476 00:39:43,233 --> 00:39:44,533 my life? 477 00:39:48,466 --> 00:39:49,366 You know me. 478 00:39:51,866 --> 00:39:52,700 That throne, 479 00:39:53,700 --> 00:39:55,033 I truly have no wish to take it. 480 00:39:57,800 --> 00:39:58,900 Is it up to you? 481 00:40:00,333 --> 00:40:02,370 I am different from the late Emperor. 482 00:40:03,733 --> 00:40:06,933 When the late Emperor took the throne, he was in good health, 483 00:40:08,133 --> 00:40:11,700 his family was complete, and he had the support of the people. 484 00:40:13,133 --> 00:40:14,600 Yet in less than three years, 485 00:40:17,733 --> 00:40:18,866 the late Emperor is gone. 486 00:40:21,400 --> 00:40:23,133 Of his three sons, two are dead. 487 00:40:25,066 --> 00:40:31,700 Now only the Empress Dowager and Prince Chen, a widow and orphan, remain to uphold the ancestral sacrifices. 488 00:40:31,700 --> 00:40:34,566 My family, in truth, is even worse off than the late Emperor's. 489 00:40:35,833 --> 00:40:38,300 Throughout my entire household, 490 00:40:38,300 --> 00:40:39,366 only I, 491 00:40:40,866 --> 00:40:42,466 and Rong, we father and son, remain. 492 00:40:48,833 --> 00:40:50,366 One hundred and sixty-eight people... 493 00:40:54,000 --> 00:40:56,366 Except for Lady Dong, who accompanied me to Daming, 494 00:40:59,833 --> 00:41:00,466 even, 495 00:41:01,033 --> 00:41:02,933 the women and servants were not spared. 496 00:41:05,266 --> 00:41:06,166 In your great virtue, 497 00:41:07,900 --> 00:41:09,766 my family truly cannot bear any more loss. 498 00:41:12,733 --> 00:41:14,066 You are an old man now. 499 00:41:15,033 --> 00:41:17,366 A trip to Xuzhou is nothing much. 500 00:41:21,066 --> 00:41:22,366 Thank you for your understanding. 501 00:41:24,533 --> 00:41:25,033 Wei, 502 00:41:27,066 --> 00:41:28,700 such is the world. 503 00:41:30,033 --> 00:41:31,933 As Yang Hu said, [Yang Hu: statesman and general of Western Jin] 504 00:41:31,933 --> 00:41:34,433 in life, things not going as one wishes, [Yang Hu: statesman and general of Western Jin] 505 00:41:34,433 --> 00:41:36,866 take seven or eight times out of ten. [Yang Hu: statesman and general of Western Jin] 506 00:41:39,033 --> 00:41:40,033 Matters like this 507 00:41:41,100 --> 00:41:42,100 are beyond my control. 508 00:41:43,800 --> 00:41:47,500 And they might not necessarily within yours. 509 00:42:04,533 --> 00:42:05,066 Guo Rong! 510 00:42:05,700 --> 00:42:07,400 What is the meaning of this? 511 00:42:07,400 --> 00:42:10,633 Uncles, my father was offering sacrifices to an old friend last night. 512 00:42:11,633 --> 00:42:12,900 He did not sleep a wink all night, 513 00:42:13,800 --> 00:42:15,166 and only fell asleep at dawn. 514 00:42:15,733 --> 00:42:16,666 Back in Taiyuan, 515 00:42:17,700 --> 00:42:19,400 what did your father himself say? 516 00:42:20,533 --> 00:42:22,166 "It is not for us to be Emperor." 517 00:42:22,566 --> 00:42:26,000 With great matters at hand, who among us has not stayed up all night? 518 00:42:26,000 --> 00:42:29,700 Now he lies here, sleeping soundly, acting like a sentimental child. 519 00:42:30,100 --> 00:42:31,300 What does he take us for? 520 00:42:31,300 --> 00:42:33,933 What does he take these comrades who follow him for? 521 00:42:36,066 --> 00:42:40,433 You two uncles stayed up all night, but at least your wives and daughters are still alive. 522 00:42:40,633 --> 00:42:41,300 Guo Rong! 523 00:42:42,866 --> 00:42:43,900 What do you mean by that? 524 00:42:44,300 --> 00:42:46,133 Why waste words arguing with him? 525 00:42:46,133 --> 00:42:47,466 Just barge in and drag him out! 526 00:42:49,500 --> 00:42:50,700 Please, two uncles, come in. 527 00:43:24,433 --> 00:43:27,400 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles stretch towering mountains. ♫ 528 00:43:27,900 --> 00:43:30,866 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles run surging rivers. ♫ 529 00:43:31,433 --> 00:43:34,400 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles cry warhorses. ♫ 530 00:43:34,900 --> 00:43:39,000 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles there are emotions unspoken. ♫ 531 00:43:39,933 --> 00:43:42,900 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, flowers are blooming along the road. ♫ 532 00:43:43,400 --> 00:43:46,366 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, gooses are returning to the north. ♫ 533 00:43:46,933 --> 00:43:49,900 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, we stand through storms. ♫ 534 00:43:50,400 --> 00:43:54,500 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, we hope for a safe return. ♫ 535 00:43:58,700 --> 00:44:01,366 ♫ Tens of thousands of miles is not enough, ♫ 536 00:44:01,966 --> 00:44:04,866 ♫ for a lifetime's sorrows and joys. ♫ 537 00:44:05,500 --> 00:44:08,166 ♫ Tens of thousands of miles is not enough, ♫ 538 00:44:08,766 --> 00:44:11,666 ♫ for the endless seas and rivers. ♫ 539 00:44:12,466 --> 00:44:15,133 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 540 00:44:15,733 --> 00:44:18,633 ♫ love will overcome all barriers. ♫ 541 00:44:19,333 --> 00:44:20,633 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 542 00:44:21,300 --> 00:44:25,033 ♫ we are together in life and death. ♫ 543 00:44:25,966 --> 00:44:29,000 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles. ♫ 544 00:44:32,700 --> 00:44:35,733 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles. ♫ 545 00:44:39,633 --> 00:44:40,966 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 546 00:44:41,333 --> 00:44:42,766 ♫ the moon shines in the boundless world. ♫ 547 00:44:43,100 --> 00:44:46,333 ♫ My heart has its hometown to return. ♫ 548 00:44:46,533 --> 00:44:47,866 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 549 00:44:48,233 --> 00:44:49,666 ♫ who is the one crossing the waves with me, ♫ 550 00:44:50,000 --> 00:44:53,233 ♫ with our hearts unrepentant, through countless lifetimes. ♫ 551 00:44:53,433 --> 00:44:54,866 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 552 00:44:55,133 --> 00:44:56,666 ♫ oceans and lands witness that♫ 553 00:44:56,900 --> 00:44:59,666 ♫ the world will be safe and sound. ♫ 554 00:45:00,066 --> 00:45:03,100 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 555 00:45:11,266 --> 00:45:15,433 ♫ my heart is unchanging. ♫