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 39] 15 00:01:44,933 --> 00:01:46,533 Your Majesty. 16 00:01:46,866 --> 00:01:48,266 Your Majesty. 17 00:01:49,866 --> 00:01:50,500 Read it. 18 00:01:51,266 --> 00:01:51,733 Yes. 19 00:02:01,900 --> 00:02:05,933 I received the Mandate of Heaven, and ascended to the great throne. 20 00:02:06,200 --> 00:02:08,133 I ended calamities, halted wars, 21 00:02:08,566 --> 00:02:10,566 and settled the people in peace. 22 00:02:11,233 --> 00:02:13,933 Burdened with worries and perils, I toiled diligently day and night, 23 00:02:13,933 --> 00:02:15,933 single-minded in benefiting the people. 24 00:02:16,433 --> 00:02:19,466 I had intended to wield long-term strategies and pacify all lands. 25 00:02:19,633 --> 00:02:21,433 Alas, Heaven did not grant me more years. 26 00:02:21,800 --> 00:02:23,733 My illness is now beyond recovery. 27 00:02:24,133 --> 00:02:25,800 Such is the Mandate of Heaven. 28 00:02:26,433 --> 00:02:29,833 I decree that my fourth son, Prince of Liang, Zongxun, shall succeed to the throne. 29 00:02:31,033 --> 00:02:34,933 Let Fan Zhi, Wang Pu, Zhao Kuangyin, and Han Tong 30 00:02:35,100 --> 00:02:36,633 serve as regent ministers. 31 00:02:37,033 --> 00:02:40,300 Guide him with care, to bring fortune to our people. 32 00:02:41,033 --> 00:02:44,633 Let each of you obey solemnly, and do not defy my command. 33 00:02:50,066 --> 00:02:51,700 You two ministers, please rise. 34 00:03:01,133 --> 00:03:04,333 Your Majesty has ascended on high. 35 00:03:06,033 --> 00:03:07,266 I am young, 36 00:03:09,133 --> 00:03:10,333 and lack experience. 37 00:03:12,533 --> 00:03:13,333 In the future, 38 00:03:15,233 --> 00:03:17,600 I will need to rely heavily on you both. 39 00:03:20,400 --> 00:03:21,166 Now, 40 00:03:22,733 --> 00:03:25,333 with affairs complex and numerous, 41 00:03:25,333 --> 00:03:26,866 I hope you both 42 00:03:28,500 --> 00:03:30,100 can sort out a clear plan. 43 00:03:32,266 --> 00:03:33,400 Only then can we 44 00:03:35,300 --> 00:03:36,733 prevent chaos in the state. 45 00:03:43,400 --> 00:03:45,533 A state cannot be without a ruler for a day. 46 00:03:45,900 --> 00:03:46,900 The foremost task 47 00:03:47,666 --> 00:03:50,833 is to invite the Prince of Liang to inherit the throne. 48 00:03:51,833 --> 00:03:54,933 We invite His Highness, the Prince of Liang to inherit the throne. 49 00:03:55,700 --> 00:03:56,833 I trouble you, Minister Fan, 50 00:03:58,533 --> 00:03:59,566 to draft a final edict 51 00:04:01,566 --> 00:04:03,000 for the late Emperor. 52 00:04:10,866 --> 00:04:11,533 Minister Fan. 53 00:04:12,433 --> 00:04:13,133 Minister Fan, 54 00:04:14,233 --> 00:04:16,800 Liao and Northern Han troops are allied and marching south. 55 00:04:16,833 --> 00:04:17,633 Waqiao Pass, 56 00:04:18,066 --> 00:04:18,700 Yijin Pass, 57 00:04:19,166 --> 00:04:19,900 Yukou Pass— 58 00:04:20,666 --> 00:04:22,566 all three passes report emergencies! 59 00:04:26,800 --> 00:04:31,500 Dispatch Inspector Zhao immediately to lead the army from the capital to reinforce the three passes. 60 00:04:35,733 --> 00:04:36,400 Inspector Zhao. 61 00:04:43,633 --> 00:04:45,100 The three passes are in crisis. 62 00:04:45,100 --> 00:04:47,033 Please make preparations swiftly. 63 00:05:03,433 --> 00:05:05,066 History serves as a warning. 64 00:05:05,066 --> 00:05:05,766 This great banner... 65 00:05:07,133 --> 00:05:08,666 is not a lucky thing at all. 66 00:05:09,733 --> 00:05:12,166 Eldest Brother, have you decided what to do? 67 00:05:29,900 --> 00:05:30,700 Summon Zhao Pu. 68 00:06:14,000 --> 00:06:15,000 The Prince of Beiping, 69 00:06:16,000 --> 00:06:17,933 Lord Liu Zhiyuan of Taiyuan— 70 00:06:19,666 --> 00:06:22,800 was he willing to take on the burden of this realm? 71 00:06:23,166 --> 00:06:24,033 Lord Liu 72 00:06:24,933 --> 00:06:26,800 was a man of vast vision and deep plans. 73 00:06:28,033 --> 00:06:29,700 I dare not speculate. 74 00:06:30,333 --> 00:06:30,966 And you? 75 00:06:31,633 --> 00:06:33,433 Are you willing to take on 76 00:06:34,533 --> 00:06:35,800 the burden of this realm? 77 00:06:36,500 --> 00:06:37,100 Kuangyin, 78 00:06:37,700 --> 00:06:40,033 go and take down that banner. 79 00:06:52,533 --> 00:06:54,166 This weather is freezing us to death. 80 00:06:54,166 --> 00:06:54,466 Yes. 81 00:06:55,100 --> 00:06:57,033 What does the Eldest Young Master want us for? 82 00:06:57,066 --> 00:06:57,700 I don't know. 83 00:07:02,666 --> 00:07:03,800 It's so cold outside. 84 00:07:03,833 --> 00:07:05,466 Where is Second Young Master going? 85 00:07:05,466 --> 00:07:08,733 He's going to stand guard outside as a precaution. 86 00:07:09,366 --> 00:07:09,700 Come in. 87 00:07:10,533 --> 00:07:11,033 Come in, come. 88 00:07:11,433 --> 00:07:12,100 Have a seat. 89 00:07:12,333 --> 00:07:15,733 What matter is to be discussed tonight, that needs such caution? 90 00:07:16,066 --> 00:07:16,566 Gentlemen, 91 00:07:18,033 --> 00:07:20,566 have you heard the prophecy circulating in the capital? 92 00:07:24,466 --> 00:07:27,466 On the day the army marches forth, the Inspector shall be made Emperor. 93 00:07:29,366 --> 00:07:31,800 Since there is a prophecy, it is Heaven's will. 94 00:07:32,433 --> 00:07:35,033 The Mandate is set, so it should be made known to the entire army: 95 00:07:36,033 --> 00:07:37,400 Make the Inspector Emperor. 96 00:07:37,733 --> 00:07:38,733 Do you agree, 97 00:07:39,933 --> 00:07:40,633 or do you oppose? 98 00:07:41,166 --> 00:07:41,866 I agree! 99 00:07:42,433 --> 00:07:43,633 If anyone dares disagree, 100 00:07:43,700 --> 00:07:44,700 I'll kill him right now! 101 00:07:45,933 --> 00:07:46,533 I agree too! 102 00:07:47,866 --> 00:07:49,100 Make the Inspector Emperor! 103 00:07:50,600 --> 00:07:52,166 Make the Inspector Emperor! 104 00:07:54,000 --> 00:07:54,633 Lord. 105 00:07:57,066 --> 00:07:58,133 Lord. 106 00:07:58,866 --> 00:08:00,300 Lord, please wait. 107 00:08:01,900 --> 00:08:02,266 You... 108 00:08:03,933 --> 00:08:05,833 are you going to arrest me? 109 00:08:06,333 --> 00:08:07,866 A man must know his limits. 110 00:08:08,800 --> 00:08:11,000 I know I cannot bear the weight of this realm. 111 00:08:12,900 --> 00:08:14,433 But I know someone who can. 112 00:08:14,933 --> 00:08:19,466 Do you think this realm is still the same as it was decades ago? 113 00:08:19,733 --> 00:08:21,566 Whoever holds the sword 114 00:08:22,100 --> 00:08:24,100 can become Emperor. 115 00:08:24,300 --> 00:08:26,166 Whoever wears the armor 116 00:08:26,300 --> 00:08:28,233 can become Emperor! 117 00:08:29,066 --> 00:08:30,166 You wear armor. 118 00:08:32,600 --> 00:08:34,300 You too can become Emperor. 119 00:08:37,533 --> 00:08:40,933 "Father, you have always been frugal and enjoys great respect in the army, 120 00:08:41,700 --> 00:08:43,733 yet you are never appointed military governor. 121 00:08:45,033 --> 00:08:47,900 Do you harbor any regret?" 122 00:08:48,766 --> 00:08:49,766 What did Marshal Guo say? 123 00:08:50,633 --> 00:08:51,466 He said, 124 00:08:51,933 --> 00:08:54,633 "High titles and generous stipends mean nothing. 125 00:08:55,266 --> 00:08:56,166 In this life, 126 00:08:57,266 --> 00:08:59,600 if I could drink again a cup of warm wine in peaceful times, 127 00:09:03,300 --> 00:09:04,400 that would be enough." 128 00:09:32,333 --> 00:09:32,866 Brother, 129 00:09:33,733 --> 00:09:34,566 it's midnight. 130 00:09:36,100 --> 00:09:37,600 Eldest Young Master, 131 00:09:37,633 --> 00:09:59,866 all the officers outside are ready. 132 00:09:59,866 --> 00:10:01,166 The world is in turmoil, 133 00:10:02,300 --> 00:10:04,133 the sacred vessel lacks a master. 134 00:10:04,133 --> 00:10:05,866 The Khitan march south. 135 00:10:07,133 --> 00:10:10,400 The lives and fortunes of all generals cannot be tied to a mere child. 136 00:10:11,266 --> 00:10:12,333 I make bold to ask: 137 00:10:12,933 --> 00:10:16,233 Commander, think of the suffering people of this world. 138 00:10:16,866 --> 00:10:22,300 Ascend the throne as Emperor, to bring peace to the state and its people. 139 00:10:25,300 --> 00:10:27,300 In autumn, when horses are strong, 140 00:10:28,533 --> 00:10:30,266 the Khitan did not come south. 141 00:10:32,500 --> 00:10:35,733 But now, in bitter cold, when no plants grow, 142 00:10:37,833 --> 00:10:39,833 they choose to march south instead. 143 00:10:43,100 --> 00:10:45,466 Have they stopped caring about their own survival? 144 00:10:47,833 --> 00:10:49,366 Once in Taiyuan, 145 00:10:50,900 --> 00:10:52,800 another time in Chanzhou— 146 00:10:54,833 --> 00:10:57,166 tonight is the third such performance. 147 00:11:00,066 --> 00:11:01,933 Deceitful lies that fool the world, 148 00:11:02,000 --> 00:11:04,833 told once or twice, some might still believe. 149 00:11:07,666 --> 00:11:08,900 To say them again today— 150 00:11:10,700 --> 00:11:11,833 is it to deceive others, 151 00:11:12,933 --> 00:11:14,400 or to deceive ourselves? 152 00:11:24,600 --> 00:11:26,533 I can become this Emperor, 153 00:11:28,866 --> 00:11:31,466 but not for the sake of your wealth and honor. 154 00:11:32,733 --> 00:11:34,766 It is so that you 155 00:11:36,100 --> 00:11:39,100 will never have to stage another scene like today's. 156 00:11:41,833 --> 00:11:44,600 It is so that this world where order is overturned, 157 00:11:45,500 --> 00:11:49,966 where power is reversed, and the people are scattered and suffering, will never return. 158 00:11:53,733 --> 00:11:59,166 It is for the two late Emperors, who painstakingly stitched together for over a decade this tattered realm, 159 00:12:01,533 --> 00:12:02,966 to make it somewhat decent. 160 00:12:05,300 --> 00:12:08,466 Today, I grant you the merit of supporting my ascension, 161 00:12:12,433 --> 00:12:15,600 solely so that in the future you 162 00:12:16,866 --> 00:12:19,866 will never again be able to claim such merit for supporting a throne. 163 00:12:21,633 --> 00:12:22,333 So then, 164 00:12:24,900 --> 00:12:27,500 do you still want to make me Emperor? 165 00:12:29,666 --> 00:12:32,166 I was born in a fallen age, 166 00:12:33,100 --> 00:12:35,933 and grew amidst chaos and separation. 167 00:12:35,933 --> 00:12:39,933 To have the fortune of serving a ruler for a prosperous era, an Emperor of peace, 168 00:12:40,366 --> 00:12:41,666 is my good fortune. 169 00:12:42,533 --> 00:12:46,533 It's also the fortune of the three armies, the myriad people, and all under heaven. 170 00:12:47,833 --> 00:12:48,866 I beseech Your Majesty 171 00:12:49,733 --> 00:12:52,566 to understand the hardships of the common folk, 172 00:12:55,000 --> 00:12:56,600 and ascend to the great throne. 173 00:12:57,300 --> 00:13:00,400 Long live Your Majesty! 174 00:13:22,633 --> 00:13:23,900 Since that is the case, 175 00:13:25,833 --> 00:13:27,900 you must agree to three conditions. 176 00:13:29,033 --> 00:13:29,900 First, 177 00:13:31,333 --> 00:13:32,633 after we enter the city, 178 00:13:33,600 --> 00:13:35,900 you must not disturb the palace or the ministers. 179 00:13:37,300 --> 00:13:37,866 Second, 180 00:13:39,100 --> 00:13:40,300 after we enter the city, 181 00:13:41,533 --> 00:13:43,200 there will be no looting or rape. 182 00:13:43,833 --> 00:13:44,566 Third, 183 00:13:46,133 --> 00:13:47,466 after we enter the city, 184 00:13:49,333 --> 00:13:53,500 not a single person is to be killed without authorization. 185 00:13:53,533 --> 00:13:55,733 Agree to these three conditions, 186 00:13:58,733 --> 00:14:00,866 and I will become your Emperor. 187 00:14:03,466 --> 00:14:05,333 If you do not agree to them, 188 00:14:10,266 --> 00:14:11,600 even if at the cost of my life, 189 00:14:12,700 --> 00:14:14,766 I will not comply. 190 00:14:16,600 --> 00:14:20,233 Long live Your Majesty! 191 00:15:09,833 --> 00:15:14,333 The Inspector is the Military Governor of Guide Army, stationed in Songzhou, 192 00:15:15,466 --> 00:15:19,533 where the descendants of Yin Shang were enfeoffed, their state named Song. 193 00:15:19,533 --> 00:15:20,066 Now, 194 00:15:20,666 --> 00:15:23,500 the three armies obey commands, the hearts of people are united. 195 00:15:23,933 --> 00:15:27,066 He should be made the master of the sacred vessel. 196 00:15:28,633 --> 00:15:29,100 I, 197 00:15:29,500 --> 00:15:30,233 Zhao Pu, 198 00:15:30,666 --> 00:15:31,766 presume to speak frankly. 199 00:15:32,133 --> 00:15:34,866 I beg the Inspector to think of the common people in the realm. 200 00:15:35,533 --> 00:15:37,933 I beg you to ascend the imperial throne. 201 00:15:38,100 --> 00:15:40,700 I beg you to ascend the imperial throne. 202 00:15:40,900 --> 00:15:43,400 I beg you to ascend the imperial throne. 203 00:15:43,766 --> 00:15:46,166 I beg you to ascend the imperial throne. 204 00:15:46,500 --> 00:15:49,200 I beg you to ascend the imperial throne. 205 00:15:49,500 --> 00:15:51,966 I beg you to ascend the imperial throne. 206 00:15:52,233 --> 00:15:54,700 I beg you to ascend the imperial throne. 207 00:16:05,733 --> 00:16:07,000 Long live the Emperor, 208 00:16:07,633 --> 00:16:08,866 of Great Song! 209 00:16:09,033 --> 00:16:11,133 Long live the Emperor of Great Song! 210 00:16:11,433 --> 00:16:13,433 Long live the Emperor of Great Song! 211 00:16:13,733 --> 00:16:15,633 Long live the Emperor of Great Song! 212 00:16:16,233 --> 00:16:18,300 Long live the Emperor of Great Song! 213 00:16:18,500 --> 00:16:20,633 Long live the Emperor of Great Song! 214 00:16:20,900 --> 00:16:23,100 Long live the Emperor of Great Song! 215 00:16:23,266 --> 00:16:25,133 Long live the Emperor of Great Song! 216 00:16:26,200 --> 00:16:29,233 In the first month of 960 AD, 217 00:16:30,600 --> 00:16:33,600 Zhao Kuangyin launched a mutiny at Chenqiao Post, 218 00:16:34,300 --> 00:16:36,400 led his army back to Bianjing, 219 00:16:37,266 --> 00:16:39,666 and ascended the throne as emperor. 220 00:16:39,666 --> 00:16:42,166 He established the state's name as 221 00:16:42,200 --> 00:16:42,900 Song. 222 00:16:53,633 --> 00:16:55,766 May Your Majesty be eternally well. 223 00:17:04,033 --> 00:17:06,333 Zhu Quanzhong replaced Tang with Liang. 224 00:17:07,000 --> 00:17:09,333 Li Cunxu replaced Liang with Tang. 225 00:17:10,466 --> 00:17:12,500 Shi Jingtang replaced Tang with Jin. 226 00:17:12,700 --> 00:17:15,066 Liu Zhiyuan replaced Jin with Han. 227 00:17:15,500 --> 00:17:17,833 Guo Wei again replaced Han with Zhou. 228 00:17:19,700 --> 00:17:25,133 Through the prolonged Five Dynasties, now the Zhao family replaces Zhou with Song. 229 00:17:26,000 --> 00:17:30,700 It's merely following the same pattern, a common sight, nothing out of the ordinary. 230 00:17:32,033 --> 00:17:33,100 Zhao's Eldest Young Master, 231 00:17:34,433 --> 00:17:35,933 was always known for his loyalty, 232 00:17:36,500 --> 00:17:37,133 honesty, 233 00:17:37,633 --> 00:17:38,266 benevolence, 234 00:17:38,666 --> 00:17:39,866 and courage. 235 00:17:40,333 --> 00:17:41,000 Now, 236 00:17:42,133 --> 00:17:43,833 he too has become a usurping minister. 237 00:17:45,533 --> 00:17:47,666 Thinking of it makes one sigh. 238 00:18:10,466 --> 00:18:13,500 Feeling a bit troubled inside? 239 00:18:17,400 --> 00:18:18,533 Nothing to be uneasy about. 240 00:18:20,066 --> 00:18:20,566 People 241 00:18:22,400 --> 00:18:23,566 will change. 242 00:18:25,066 --> 00:18:26,200 Have they changed, 243 00:18:26,933 --> 00:18:27,833 or have you changed? 244 00:18:29,400 --> 00:18:30,766 I'm afraid we all have changed. 245 00:18:33,000 --> 00:18:34,933 The saddest thing in the world, 246 00:18:36,200 --> 00:18:37,333 is just this. 247 00:18:40,866 --> 00:18:41,933 Jingnan and Hunan 248 00:18:42,233 --> 00:18:45,233 have both sent envoys to Bianjing to offer congratulations and tribute. 249 00:18:46,500 --> 00:18:49,800 The Li father and son in Jinling sent ten cartloads of pearls and treasures. 250 00:18:50,533 --> 00:18:51,766 For the past three months, 251 00:18:52,333 --> 00:18:53,266 almost every month, 252 00:18:53,733 --> 00:18:56,366 they have dispatched envoys to the capital with memorials, 253 00:18:57,233 --> 00:18:58,633 their words most humble. 254 00:18:59,500 --> 00:19:02,300 Zhao Kuangyin is a hero of our time. 255 00:19:02,833 --> 00:19:03,866 Back in Shouzhou, 256 00:19:04,100 --> 00:19:05,900 with one army he smashed ten camps, 257 00:19:05,900 --> 00:19:08,533 breaking the spirit of every Southern Tang general. 258 00:19:09,466 --> 00:19:12,133 The Li family fears provoking him, 259 00:19:12,633 --> 00:19:15,933 lest he march south and slaughter this Southern Tang, 260 00:19:16,300 --> 00:19:18,800 to warn all the others in the world. 261 00:19:19,266 --> 00:19:19,866 Great King, 262 00:19:20,766 --> 00:19:24,866 submitting memorials and declaring allegiance should be delayed no longer. 263 00:19:26,700 --> 00:19:27,233 Great King, 264 00:19:28,133 --> 00:19:31,200 serving the great central court well is our ancestral instruction, 265 00:19:32,533 --> 00:19:33,800 and our state policy. 266 00:19:35,666 --> 00:19:37,033 Back in Bianliang, 267 00:19:38,533 --> 00:19:42,966 I and the Military Governor of Guide Army considered ourselves as if brothers. 268 00:19:44,300 --> 00:19:47,533 I honored his father Zhao Hongyin as an uncle. 269 00:19:51,133 --> 00:19:52,033 Now, 270 00:19:55,400 --> 00:19:57,233 he has become the Emperor. 271 00:19:57,233 --> 00:20:00,066 The Zhao family is now the imperial family. 272 00:20:01,566 --> 00:20:04,766 Out of respect and kinship, it is proper to avoid taboo. 273 00:20:06,733 --> 00:20:08,633 So, the character 'Hong' in my name 274 00:20:10,133 --> 00:20:12,400 should no longer be used. 275 00:20:12,433 --> 00:20:13,866 From this day forward, 276 00:20:14,666 --> 00:20:15,333 I change my name 277 00:20:16,666 --> 00:20:17,566 to Qian Chu. 278 00:20:25,466 --> 00:20:28,000 The Great King only spoke of the name taboo. 279 00:20:28,466 --> 00:20:32,700 As to when to submit memorials, when to declare allegiance, when to send tribute, 280 00:20:32,700 --> 00:20:34,000 not a word was said. 281 00:20:35,633 --> 00:20:37,900 This is a matter of grave importance. 282 00:20:37,900 --> 00:20:40,466 He must not act on whim. 283 00:20:41,833 --> 00:20:44,066 Madam, please persuade him. 284 00:20:46,233 --> 00:20:47,333 Still not asleep? 285 00:20:49,333 --> 00:20:50,466 You're awake too, 286 00:20:50,833 --> 00:20:51,900 and you come to advise me. 287 00:20:55,133 --> 00:20:56,066 I'm fine. 288 00:20:57,266 --> 00:20:58,266 You say you're fine? 289 00:20:59,266 --> 00:21:01,700 You've been absent-minded all day, 290 00:21:02,566 --> 00:21:05,366 and refuse to give clear instructions to those below. 291 00:21:06,033 --> 00:21:10,133 You've got all those ministers and marshals suspicious and apprehensive. 292 00:21:10,633 --> 00:21:13,366 Clearly, you're stuck in your thoughts again. 293 00:21:14,466 --> 00:21:15,800 Have I 294 00:21:17,266 --> 00:21:18,333 made another mistake? 295 00:21:20,633 --> 00:21:21,566 Who are you? 296 00:21:23,866 --> 00:21:26,500 You are the ninth boy of the Qian family. 297 00:21:26,500 --> 00:21:29,566 Even though you have been our ruler and Great King for ten years, 298 00:21:29,733 --> 00:21:33,233 holding the titles of Secretariat Director, Commander of all armies, so what? 299 00:21:33,466 --> 00:21:35,100 You are still Qian Chu, 300 00:21:35,533 --> 00:21:37,333 Passionate, principled, 301 00:21:38,200 --> 00:21:39,933 chivalrous and responsible. 302 00:21:39,933 --> 00:21:42,933 Whenever you cannot understand or accept something, 303 00:21:42,933 --> 00:21:45,766 not even the heavens themselves can sway you. 304 00:21:45,766 --> 00:21:46,666 For the land of Wuyue, 305 00:21:47,866 --> 00:21:51,933 serving the great central empire is ancestral instruction and state policy. 306 00:21:52,033 --> 00:21:52,766 That is all true. 307 00:21:53,100 --> 00:21:54,600 But there is one condition: 308 00:22:02,400 --> 00:22:03,733 my Chu 309 00:22:04,000 --> 00:22:05,133 must acknowledge it as "great". 310 00:22:11,333 --> 00:22:12,466 I only acknowledge you. 311 00:22:18,033 --> 00:22:20,366 The Li has sent another ten cartloads of goods? 312 00:22:20,400 --> 00:22:20,733 Yes. 313 00:22:20,933 --> 00:22:24,066 This is already the third time this year. 314 00:22:24,100 --> 00:22:25,733 Reward them with gifts as usual. 315 00:22:26,333 --> 00:22:27,233 I obey the decree. 316 00:22:28,700 --> 00:22:29,733 Do the same for Wuyue. 317 00:22:30,633 --> 00:22:32,133 Your Majesty, Wuyue has not... 318 00:22:32,133 --> 00:22:32,633 I know. 319 00:22:33,533 --> 00:22:36,333 Grant Southern Tang as much as you grant Wuyue. 320 00:22:37,866 --> 00:22:39,733 Also send a state letter. 321 00:22:41,066 --> 00:22:42,200 I obey. 322 00:22:42,566 --> 00:22:43,833 Summon a Hanlin Academician. 323 00:22:43,866 --> 00:22:44,500 No need. 324 00:22:46,133 --> 00:22:46,833 This letter, 325 00:22:48,200 --> 00:22:49,200 I will write it myself. 326 00:22:50,433 --> 00:22:50,866 Great King, 327 00:22:51,633 --> 00:22:53,766 this is already the eighth state letter. 328 00:22:53,766 --> 00:22:57,366 By both sentiment and reason, you should not remain unresponsive. 329 00:23:01,833 --> 00:23:02,366 Great King, 330 00:23:04,100 --> 00:23:06,366 Minister Shen's counsel is for the good of the state. 331 00:23:07,033 --> 00:23:11,566 A state letter written in the Emperor's own hand deserves a reply written in your own. 332 00:23:13,500 --> 00:23:16,033 I am not skilled with brush and ink. 333 00:23:16,066 --> 00:23:16,766 The reply... 334 00:23:18,833 --> 00:23:20,366 you two shall write it for me. 335 00:23:32,400 --> 00:23:34,733 Reading at night strains the eyes too much. 336 00:23:37,500 --> 00:23:40,800 These were printed by the Great Song's Hanlin Academy. 337 00:23:40,833 --> 00:23:45,300 Someone from the Huanglong House traveling to the capital on business recently saw a preserved copy. 338 00:23:45,300 --> 00:23:47,566 My younger brother have it transcribed and sent here.. 339 00:23:52,300 --> 00:23:52,766 I'm tired. 340 00:23:53,400 --> 00:23:53,900 Time to sleep. 341 00:24:11,033 --> 00:24:15,566 [Zhou Emperor Shizong Biography] 342 00:24:23,566 --> 00:24:24,000 Pass my order. 343 00:24:24,666 --> 00:24:25,100 Yes. 344 00:24:26,733 --> 00:24:31,166 Have the Chancellor's Office and the Tongru Academy draft a memorial declaring submission, 345 00:24:31,200 --> 00:24:32,933 prepare tribute goods, 346 00:24:32,933 --> 00:24:36,600 and appoint the Judge of the Marshal's Office as tribute envoy to go to the capital. 347 00:24:37,900 --> 00:24:38,233 Understood. 348 00:24:44,633 --> 00:24:48,800 Li Chongjin's rebellion is a refusal to acknowledge me as Emperor. 349 00:24:49,566 --> 00:24:53,400 I shall personally campaign against Yangzhou to make him understand once more 350 00:24:54,200 --> 00:24:55,733 what imperial authority truly is. 351 00:24:57,433 --> 00:24:58,800 Issue an edict to King Qian: 352 00:24:58,833 --> 00:25:02,566 request the state of Wuyue to send troops to Runzhou as a distant containment force. 353 00:25:02,566 --> 00:25:04,066 Tell Chu, I miss him. 354 00:25:04,666 --> 00:25:07,233 I hope we can meet on the river. 355 00:25:09,033 --> 00:25:10,300 All ministers, 356 00:25:11,133 --> 00:25:12,666 deploy troops and commanders. 357 00:25:13,466 --> 00:25:15,866 Send the army and cavalry to Runzhou 358 00:25:16,700 --> 00:25:17,833 to support the Imperial Army. 359 00:25:18,933 --> 00:25:19,500 Great King, 360 00:25:21,633 --> 00:25:23,100 the Emperor invites you 361 00:25:24,133 --> 00:25:25,500 to meet on the river. 362 00:25:31,033 --> 00:25:32,266 I am unwell. 363 00:25:32,733 --> 00:25:33,466 This time, 364 00:25:34,833 --> 00:25:36,966 I will not lead the campaign personally. 365 00:25:37,000 --> 00:25:43,133 I impeach Qian Chu, King of Wuyue, for secretly harboring treacherous ambitions and lacking the deference of a subject. 366 00:25:43,433 --> 00:25:44,566 What is your name? 367 00:25:45,033 --> 00:25:45,533 I 368 00:25:46,033 --> 00:25:49,033 am Palace Censor, Wang Huang. 369 00:25:51,100 --> 00:25:51,933 Minister Fan. 370 00:25:55,066 --> 00:25:55,700 Yes. 371 00:25:56,400 --> 00:25:58,200 Where is the most remote county now? 372 00:26:01,266 --> 00:26:03,166 Jiezhou, Fujin County. 373 00:26:06,533 --> 00:26:12,466 Palace Censor Wang Huang is appointed Supervisor of the Fujin County Wine Tax. 374 00:26:15,100 --> 00:26:20,566 The loyalty of King Qian of Wuyue is certain. You petty men can never try to sow discord among us. 375 00:26:23,533 --> 00:26:26,233 The mutiny case in the Liaoqian Company has been fully investigated. 376 00:26:26,266 --> 00:26:28,866 Deputy Commander Cheng Yue embezzled soldiers' pay, 377 00:26:29,133 --> 00:26:31,500 sold off military supplies, and treated the soldiers harshly , 378 00:26:31,533 --> 00:26:33,066 which ultimately provoked the mutiny. 379 00:26:33,533 --> 00:26:38,033 Among officers at squad leader level and above in the entire company, six died and eleven were injured. 380 00:26:38,066 --> 00:26:41,800 The Inner Surveillance Office, according to the penal code, recommended death by hanging. 381 00:26:41,833 --> 00:26:46,233 However, considering his late grandfather, Cheng Ji, Grand Tutor and Military Governor of Zhangyi, 382 00:26:46,233 --> 00:26:48,466 who had merit in founding the state under King Wusu, 383 00:26:48,466 --> 00:26:51,033 [Qian Weijun, Qian Chu's eldest son] leniency and a reduced sentence seemed appropriate. 384 00:26:51,066 --> 00:26:53,866 Grace and favor must come from above. Therefore, 385 00:26:53,866 --> 00:26:55,300 I have not granted him a pardon. 386 00:26:57,400 --> 00:26:58,533 Have Lu Yanzhu 387 00:26:59,466 --> 00:27:01,100 take the late king's sword, 388 00:27:02,233 --> 00:27:05,733 drag him before the old Grand Tutor's tomb, and behead him. 389 00:27:06,900 --> 00:27:07,533 Yes. 390 00:27:13,833 --> 00:27:14,633 Report, 391 00:27:15,133 --> 00:27:17,633 there is an urgent memorial from the Anguo Yijin Army. 392 00:27:20,733 --> 00:27:21,366 Seventh Prince, 393 00:27:23,033 --> 00:27:24,900 The Deposed King is critically ill. 394 00:27:37,700 --> 00:27:38,533 Seventh Brother. 395 00:27:39,833 --> 00:27:40,566 I am here. 396 00:27:43,533 --> 00:27:45,000 Be at ease, Seventh Brother. 397 00:27:46,133 --> 00:27:48,133 With your younger brother here, 398 00:27:48,133 --> 00:27:51,666 I will never let your wife and children worry about food or clothing. 399 00:28:02,233 --> 00:28:02,866 Weizhi. 400 00:28:11,300 --> 00:28:11,966 Great King. 401 00:28:13,133 --> 00:28:14,033 Call me Father. 402 00:28:15,566 --> 00:28:17,633 [Qian Weizhi, Qian Zong's Eldest Son] From this day forward, 403 00:28:17,666 --> 00:28:20,166 Weijun is your own younger brother. 404 00:28:21,133 --> 00:28:23,700 Ying is your own younger sister. 405 00:28:34,066 --> 00:28:34,666 Your subject... 406 00:28:37,433 --> 00:28:38,133 Your son... 407 00:28:39,266 --> 00:28:40,900 kowtows in gratitude to you, Father. 408 00:28:43,466 --> 00:28:44,700 Weizhi is very good. 409 00:28:48,300 --> 00:28:50,433 You have the bearing of your Sixth Uncle. 410 00:28:57,466 --> 00:28:58,133 Father. 411 00:28:58,633 --> 00:28:59,433 Father. 412 00:29:00,666 --> 00:29:01,400 Father. 413 00:29:02,066 --> 00:29:03,000 Father. 414 00:29:04,033 --> 00:29:05,233 Father. 415 00:29:06,666 --> 00:29:07,600 Father. 416 00:29:09,766 --> 00:29:10,766 Father. 417 00:29:13,333 --> 00:29:17,600 Father! Father! 418 00:29:38,333 --> 00:29:41,666 The Tongru Academy shall draft the edict. 419 00:29:41,700 --> 00:29:43,600 I receive the instruction. 420 00:29:46,133 --> 00:29:49,833 My eldest son, Weizhi, is intelligent and observant of propriety, 421 00:29:50,266 --> 00:29:53,666 has achieved success in his studies, 422 00:29:53,666 --> 00:29:55,866 and as the eldest, sets an example. 423 00:29:55,866 --> 00:29:59,300 He is hereby appointed Commander of the Inner Army, 424 00:30:00,666 --> 00:30:03,233 in charge of military provisions and lands. 425 00:30:04,566 --> 00:30:05,300 Great King... 426 00:30:09,700 --> 00:30:10,333 I 427 00:30:11,566 --> 00:30:12,900 receive the instruction. 428 00:30:14,000 --> 00:30:14,566 Come here. 429 00:30:18,666 --> 00:30:19,333 Father. 430 00:30:20,533 --> 00:30:21,433 Call me Father. 431 00:30:24,233 --> 00:30:24,800 Father. 432 00:30:26,066 --> 00:30:30,500 Military provisions and lands are vital matters of state and military. 433 00:30:32,200 --> 00:30:33,900 I do not understand them. 434 00:30:34,533 --> 00:30:37,200 Have you mastered the Nine Chapters Mathematics? 435 00:30:37,233 --> 00:30:38,366 I have only a rough grasp. 436 00:30:41,033 --> 00:30:41,900 Then that is sufficient. 437 00:30:43,433 --> 00:30:44,733 This is your eldest brother, 438 00:30:45,333 --> 00:30:45,833 Weizhi. 439 00:30:47,000 --> 00:30:49,000 [Qian Ying, Qian Chu's Daughter] Ying greets Eldest Brother. 440 00:30:50,066 --> 00:30:52,133 [Qian Ying, Qian Chu's Daughter] This is eldest brother. Why haven't you paid your respects? 441 00:30:52,266 --> 00:30:54,400 Weijun greets Eldest Brother. 442 00:30:56,833 --> 00:30:57,866 Greetings, younger sister. 443 00:30:58,433 --> 00:30:59,133 Younger brother. 444 00:31:06,866 --> 00:31:07,866 A small token of my regard. 445 00:31:08,200 --> 00:31:10,466 Sister, Brother, please do not find it too meager. 446 00:31:15,100 --> 00:31:17,100 Thank you, Eldest Brother. 447 00:31:17,566 --> 00:31:19,966 Thank you, Eldest Brother. 448 00:31:20,466 --> 00:31:23,966 Among brothers and sisters, you must observe the order of seniority, 449 00:31:25,100 --> 00:31:27,233 but more importantly, the rites of mutual affection. 450 00:31:28,266 --> 00:31:31,466 As you grow older, if you develop your own thoughts and schemes, 451 00:31:31,933 --> 00:31:35,000 and damage family bonds, I, your father, will not stand for it. 452 00:31:36,433 --> 00:31:38,566 Your son respectfully obeys your instruction. 453 00:31:39,500 --> 00:31:41,600 Your daughter respectfully obeys your instruction. 454 00:31:41,833 --> 00:31:42,566 Yes. 455 00:31:43,733 --> 00:31:46,166 Weizhi is indeed pitiable. 456 00:31:47,666 --> 00:31:49,533 Since you have made your decision, 457 00:31:49,533 --> 00:31:51,633 you must not regret it in the future, 458 00:31:52,233 --> 00:31:53,933 and beware of showing favoritism. 459 00:31:56,500 --> 00:31:57,366 What you said, 460 00:31:57,733 --> 00:31:59,133 is quite interesting. 461 00:32:00,333 --> 00:32:03,566 Are you afraid that Weizhi will meet the same fate as Third Brother? 462 00:32:03,866 --> 00:32:06,666 My brother has Mother. Eldest Brother has Fifth Uncle. 463 00:32:06,766 --> 00:32:08,600 Each has their backing. 464 00:32:09,300 --> 00:32:11,566 But Weizhi has nothing. 465 00:32:13,833 --> 00:32:14,633 I see. 466 00:32:15,300 --> 00:32:16,433 Rest assured. 467 00:32:20,566 --> 00:32:21,766 I am not like Father. 468 00:32:23,766 --> 00:32:25,500 In the year 964 AD, 469 00:32:25,533 --> 00:32:27,766 the second year of the Qiande period, November, 470 00:32:28,133 --> 00:32:29,800 Emperor Taizu of Song, Zhao Kuangyin, 471 00:32:29,833 --> 00:32:33,533 using Later Shu's collusion with the Northern Han and their plot to invade as pretext, 472 00:32:33,533 --> 00:32:37,433 dispatched senior generals Wang Quanbin and Liu Guangyi with an army of sixty thousand, 473 00:32:37,466 --> 00:32:39,466 advancing in northern and eastern routes. 474 00:32:40,666 --> 00:32:42,733 The Later Shu army collapsed almost immediately. 475 00:32:43,066 --> 00:32:46,266 In January of the following year, the ruler of Later Shu, Meng Chang, surrendered. 476 00:32:46,500 --> 00:32:48,600 However, the Song commander-in-chief, Wang Quanbin, 477 00:32:48,766 --> 00:32:52,000 ordered the brutal massacre of nearly thirty thousand surrendered Shu troops. 478 00:32:52,733 --> 00:32:56,566 This horrifying atrocity immediately alienated the people of Shu 479 00:32:57,066 --> 00:32:59,266 and sparked a large-scale military revolt. 480 00:32:59,833 --> 00:33:00,733 When the news spread, 481 00:33:00,866 --> 00:33:02,700 the states in the south were shocked and fearful. 482 00:33:03,266 --> 00:33:05,133 The Song's great project of unification 483 00:33:05,133 --> 00:33:07,633 was also overshadowed by this. 484 00:33:08,900 --> 00:33:12,233 Though the Meng clan surrendered, the support of the people of Shu were not won. 485 00:33:12,566 --> 00:33:15,200 The Prefect of Wenzhou, Quan Shixiong, rose in rebellion, 486 00:33:15,233 --> 00:33:17,766 declaring himself Military Governor of the Xingguo Army. 487 00:33:17,766 --> 00:33:19,200 Many in Shu answered his call. 488 00:33:19,833 --> 00:33:22,500 Across Shu's prefectures, there was widespread panic. 489 00:33:22,500 --> 00:33:24,566 The situation became unstable. 490 00:33:25,833 --> 00:33:27,266 Wang Quanbin, 491 00:33:28,033 --> 00:33:29,333 deserves to die! 492 00:33:30,000 --> 00:33:32,333 Your Majesty, with our main force still in the field, 493 00:33:32,766 --> 00:33:35,200 it is unwise to punish its commanding general. 494 00:33:35,833 --> 00:33:38,500 Issue an edict reprimanding him and strip him of his command. 495 00:33:39,266 --> 00:33:42,333 Let Cao Bin and Liu Guangyi take temporary command of the central army. 496 00:33:42,333 --> 00:33:42,966 Your Majesty! 497 00:33:43,466 --> 00:33:46,200 If he had not slaughtered those thirty thousand surrendered men, 498 00:33:46,233 --> 00:33:47,933 would Shu be in such chaos? 499 00:33:51,200 --> 00:33:52,233 Thirty thousand men! 500 00:33:54,433 --> 00:33:56,566 That's thirty thousand able-bodied men. 501 00:33:57,233 --> 00:33:59,633 Even if sent to reclaim wasteland, in a short time 502 00:33:59,866 --> 00:34:03,800 they could have opened up ten thousand qing of fertile land. 503 00:34:03,833 --> 00:34:08,633 Within three to five years, the court could have gained over a million hu in grain taxes. 504 00:34:09,400 --> 00:34:10,266 Not to mention 505 00:34:11,166 --> 00:34:15,400 that behind these thirty thousand men were several hundred thousand women and children. 506 00:34:20,400 --> 00:34:21,933 The Meng clan has already surrendered. 507 00:34:24,233 --> 00:34:26,100 So they are all my people now! 508 00:34:34,500 --> 00:34:36,900 The Wang and Meng families in Shu had governed for decades. 509 00:34:38,400 --> 00:34:40,266 The population and households had flourished. 510 00:34:41,700 --> 00:34:43,433 Grain, fodder, and armor were stockpiled. 511 00:34:45,800 --> 00:34:48,666 To use Yizhou's wealth to fund the southern campaigns 512 00:34:48,666 --> 00:34:50,533 was the court's established strategy. 513 00:34:52,566 --> 00:34:54,233 But Wang Quanbin, 514 00:34:55,066 --> 00:34:56,200 he just slaughtered wildly! 515 00:34:56,566 --> 00:34:59,266 He killed until there was no labor left for the fields, 516 00:34:59,300 --> 00:35:02,333 until women and children all viewed the court as a mortal enemy. 517 00:35:03,333 --> 00:35:06,433 And now, with Quan Shixiong's rebellion, 518 00:35:08,500 --> 00:35:09,366 the land of Shu, 519 00:35:10,566 --> 00:35:13,600 may need thirty or fifty years to recover. 520 00:35:14,233 --> 00:35:16,433 I fear that even when the realm is unified, 521 00:35:18,133 --> 00:35:18,866 The Shu region, 522 00:35:19,566 --> 00:35:21,633 will remain a source of trouble for the court. 523 00:35:24,233 --> 00:35:25,266 One hundred years, 524 00:35:26,266 --> 00:35:27,266 two hundred years... 525 00:35:28,866 --> 00:35:31,033 I do not know when it will be pacified. 526 00:35:32,033 --> 00:35:34,133 Your Majesty, please suppress your anger. 527 00:35:35,233 --> 00:35:36,900 He killed thirty thousand people, 528 00:35:38,700 --> 00:35:41,166 bequeathing a disaster for three hundred years. 529 00:35:43,133 --> 00:35:45,833 That I did not have him executed on the spot 530 00:35:45,866 --> 00:35:49,033 was only out of regard for my father. 531 00:35:53,400 --> 00:35:57,566 Arrogant troops and unruly generals, soldiers loyal to commanders, mutual coercion— 532 00:35:57,566 --> 00:36:00,766 these are the deep-seated ills since the mid-Tang, for two hundred years. 533 00:36:00,800 --> 00:36:02,166 It was true at Baima Station, [Baima Station: Zhu Wen killed many virtuous ministers there] 534 00:36:02,166 --> 00:36:04,100 and also at Xingjiao Gate. [Baima Station: Zhu Wen killed many virtuous ministers there] 535 00:36:04,133 --> 00:36:06,466 The Emperor in Chang'an, the Military Governors' soldiers— 536 00:36:06,500 --> 00:36:09,533 over the five dynasties, every change of power has followed this pattern. 537 00:36:09,833 --> 00:36:10,566 Wang Quanbin 538 00:36:11,000 --> 00:36:13,400 is an old-timer from the days of the Xingjiao Gate incident. 539 00:36:13,866 --> 00:36:15,300 Old habits die hard, that's all. 540 00:36:15,400 --> 00:36:17,933 It's not a matter of loyalty or treason. 541 00:36:18,666 --> 00:36:19,200 I 542 00:36:20,033 --> 00:36:22,033 am not concerned with his loyalty. 543 00:36:23,066 --> 00:36:26,166 What concerns me is precisely what you just said, Minister: 544 00:36:26,333 --> 00:36:28,000 "old habits die hard." 545 00:36:29,466 --> 00:36:30,766 What is your view, Juzheng? 546 00:36:30,800 --> 00:36:31,400 Your Majesty. 547 00:36:32,333 --> 00:36:33,400 [Xue Juzheng] Autumn is approaching, 548 00:36:33,533 --> 00:36:35,166 [Xue Juzheng] whic is the time for selecting scholars. 549 00:36:36,033 --> 00:36:36,933 I request your decree 550 00:36:37,133 --> 00:36:40,266 to open the regular examinations to recruit scholars from the realm, 551 00:36:40,300 --> 00:36:42,300 and meet the court's needs for selecting talent. 552 00:36:44,433 --> 00:36:46,466 I asked you how to handle military generals, 553 00:36:47,066 --> 00:36:50,066 and you say to open examinations to recruit civil officials. 554 00:36:50,500 --> 00:36:52,400 Lord Xue, you feign ignorance rather well. 555 00:36:55,100 --> 00:36:57,966 The way of civil and military affairs involves both relaxation and tension. 556 00:36:58,800 --> 00:37:00,933 How can that be called feign ignorance? 557 00:37:03,133 --> 00:37:05,166 Military officers win fame on horseback, 558 00:37:05,633 --> 00:37:08,533 but civil officials must all seek it through the examination hall. 559 00:37:08,533 --> 00:37:09,666 Since our dynasty's founding, 560 00:37:10,033 --> 00:37:12,700 the regular exams select jinshi no more than ten or twenty a year, 561 00:37:13,033 --> 00:37:14,066 and special exams even fewer. 562 00:37:14,300 --> 00:37:16,966 The fierceness of their struggle is truly no less than fighting in battle. 563 00:37:19,233 --> 00:37:21,933 Breaking a man's heart is better than killing him, is it not? 564 00:37:24,366 --> 00:37:25,566 [Wang Shen, Palace Gate Duty Officer] 565 00:37:38,700 --> 00:37:39,600 Your father 566 00:37:40,000 --> 00:37:42,500 was a pillar of Emperor Shizong. 567 00:37:44,000 --> 00:37:45,866 Had he not devised the strategies, 568 00:37:46,300 --> 00:37:47,966 there would be no Palace Command, 569 00:37:48,733 --> 00:37:50,800 and no Commander like me. 570 00:37:52,000 --> 00:37:52,833 Naturally, 571 00:37:53,733 --> 00:37:55,966 I wouldn't have become Emperor. 572 00:37:58,733 --> 00:37:59,466 I dare not. 573 00:38:00,800 --> 00:38:02,100 You dare not, 574 00:38:04,400 --> 00:38:06,800 but your father might not have dared not. 575 00:38:08,100 --> 00:38:09,833 If your father were here, 576 00:38:10,533 --> 00:38:14,433 he could control the military men, and weaken the military governors. 577 00:38:18,233 --> 00:38:19,500 If your father were here, 578 00:38:20,566 --> 00:38:22,766 I would not be wearing these robes. 579 00:38:24,666 --> 00:38:26,533 This year, eighteen jinshi were selected. 580 00:38:27,066 --> 00:38:28,600 The rest, who sank to lower ranks, 581 00:38:29,066 --> 00:38:30,166 were all eliminated. 582 00:38:31,300 --> 00:38:32,466 In my youth, 583 00:38:32,833 --> 00:38:36,300 I was fortunate to serve by Lord Feng's side, attending and standing in formation. 584 00:38:37,000 --> 00:38:37,933 At that time, 585 00:38:38,333 --> 00:38:39,366 Lord Feng spoke to me 586 00:38:39,733 --> 00:38:41,266 about the way of being a general. 587 00:38:41,800 --> 00:38:42,400 He quoted 588 00:38:42,433 --> 00:38:43,933 a sentence from Han Feizi. 589 00:38:44,166 --> 00:38:45,166 To this day, 590 00:38:45,333 --> 00:38:46,800 I still remember it well: 591 00:38:47,733 --> 00:38:49,933 "Therefore, of the officials of a good ruler, 592 00:38:49,933 --> 00:38:52,500 the chancellor must rise from local administration, 593 00:38:52,833 --> 00:38:55,466 and generals must emerge from the common soldiers. 594 00:38:56,566 --> 00:38:57,433 In reply, Your Majesty, 595 00:38:58,700 --> 00:39:00,766 Lord Feng's words are a timeless principle. 596 00:39:02,666 --> 00:39:03,333 However, 597 00:39:04,066 --> 00:39:05,100 it is not that we will not, 598 00:39:05,633 --> 00:39:06,700 but that we truly cannot. 599 00:39:07,833 --> 00:39:08,666 Why? 600 00:39:09,633 --> 00:39:14,566 Since the mid-Tang Dynasty, military governors were granted authority to governed their regions, 601 00:39:14,933 --> 00:39:17,033 Most local officials came from their personal staffs. 602 00:39:17,533 --> 00:39:18,766 Furthermore, today, 603 00:39:19,733 --> 00:39:22,933 the realm is fragmented, with separate states holding power. 604 00:39:22,933 --> 00:39:25,933 The counties under our dynasty's rule number just over six hundred. 605 00:39:26,533 --> 00:39:30,366 The officials the Ministry of Personnel can appoint are actually fewer than two hundred. 606 00:39:30,400 --> 00:39:32,300 I rule over six hundred counties. 607 00:39:32,866 --> 00:39:34,366 Now that Later Shu is pacified, 608 00:39:34,500 --> 00:39:36,166 It's over seven hundred counties. 609 00:39:36,566 --> 00:39:38,300 The regular exams select jinshi, 610 00:39:38,466 --> 00:39:40,633 only ten to twenty people each year. 611 00:39:41,500 --> 00:39:43,800 Too few. Insufficient for our needs. 612 00:39:44,533 --> 00:39:45,800 Local administrators 613 00:39:45,933 --> 00:39:47,766 still need to be educated men. 614 00:39:48,933 --> 00:39:50,400 We must proceed gradually. 615 00:39:52,800 --> 00:39:54,700 I have read all these poems and articles. 616 00:39:54,933 --> 00:39:56,200 They are well written. 617 00:39:57,066 --> 00:40:00,366 But not being able to compose poetry doesn't mean one cannot handle affairs. 618 00:40:01,033 --> 00:40:04,666 Criteria of regular exams should be appropriately relaxed. 619 00:40:04,666 --> 00:40:07,500 The regular exams are the institution for selecting talent. 620 00:40:07,500 --> 00:40:10,633 Appearance, speech, calligraphy, judgment, both virtuous and worthy. 621 00:40:10,666 --> 00:40:13,566 Selecting through poetry and prose is the old system of the Great Tang. 622 00:40:13,866 --> 00:40:16,800 Those lacking virtue and talent cannot ascend among them. 623 00:40:16,933 --> 00:40:18,166 This is the law of the land. 624 00:40:18,700 --> 00:40:19,600 Even the sovereign 625 00:40:20,300 --> 00:40:21,466 cannot easily change it. 626 00:40:22,133 --> 00:40:23,266 Just now you said 627 00:40:24,400 --> 00:40:26,233 those sinking to lower ranks should be weeded out. 628 00:40:26,833 --> 00:40:28,366 How many were actually weeded out? 629 00:40:29,400 --> 00:40:33,100 This year, those taking the regular exams totaled three hundred seventy-eight. 630 00:40:34,800 --> 00:40:36,433 Eighteen were selected. 631 00:40:37,233 --> 00:40:39,033 Three hundred sixty were weeded out. 632 00:40:39,300 --> 00:40:40,466 One in twenty. 633 00:40:42,066 --> 00:40:43,800 This is not the method of a prosperous age. 634 00:40:43,833 --> 00:40:47,666 Since they lack talent and strategy, how can they govern the land and manage the people? 635 00:40:56,633 --> 00:40:58,666 They are still better than men who wield blades. 636 00:41:07,466 --> 00:41:08,933 Xue Juzheng presided over the examinations. 637 00:41:08,933 --> 00:41:10,366 [Fan Mansion, North Yujie] Allusions slightly inferior, 638 00:41:10,533 --> 00:41:11,766 [Fan Mansion, North Yujie] you were ranked as lower grade. 639 00:41:11,800 --> 00:41:13,100 [Fan Mansion, North Yujie] Let alone poetry and prose. 640 00:41:14,333 --> 00:41:16,066 There's never a first in poetry. 641 00:41:16,100 --> 00:41:16,933 Frontier poetry, 642 00:41:16,933 --> 00:41:18,800 why must it be considered inferior to Li Bai's? 643 00:41:18,833 --> 00:41:19,366 Exactly! 644 00:41:19,533 --> 00:41:21,466 You misspoke from the start. 645 00:41:21,500 --> 00:41:24,033 Since Lord Feng, only Du Fu has been exclusively praised. 646 00:41:24,433 --> 00:41:27,666 What frontier fortresses, what Li Bai, are all like clouds. 647 00:41:27,933 --> 00:41:30,833 "The fish and turtles in the pond congratulate each other; 648 00:41:30,833 --> 00:41:32,833 From now on they know they have a master." 649 00:41:33,533 --> 00:41:35,566 Lord Feng himself composes poetry, 650 00:41:35,833 --> 00:41:37,266 yet he doesn't emulate Du Fu. 651 00:41:37,633 --> 00:41:39,633 He deliberately makes things hard for us. 652 00:41:39,633 --> 00:41:42,666 The "fish and turtles" Lord Feng spoke of are precisely you people. 653 00:41:42,666 --> 00:41:43,200 You! 654 00:41:43,933 --> 00:41:44,666 Sima Pu. 655 00:41:45,466 --> 00:41:48,766 Old friend, you've been taking the regular exams for forty years now, right? 656 00:41:49,100 --> 00:41:51,566 You understand Lord Feng's poetry so well. 657 00:41:51,833 --> 00:41:53,900 He served as chancellor for thirty years, 658 00:41:54,066 --> 00:41:58,366 yet he never saw fit to have you pass as jinshi or obtain any official post. 659 00:41:58,800 --> 00:41:59,533 As a young man, 660 00:41:59,666 --> 00:42:01,966 I have little strength and can do no heavy work, 661 00:42:02,000 --> 00:42:04,300 incapable of mathematics, ignorant of the people's hardships. 662 00:42:04,733 --> 00:42:08,100 No matter how fine the poetry and articles are, I'm still useless. 663 00:42:08,800 --> 00:42:09,566 Lord Feng... 664 00:42:09,700 --> 00:42:11,633 why would he want to appoint me as an official? 665 00:42:14,466 --> 00:42:16,133 Forty years without a single success. 666 00:42:16,500 --> 00:42:18,200 Indeed, a useless man. 667 00:42:19,933 --> 00:42:21,000 Seven hundred years ago, 668 00:42:21,400 --> 00:42:22,733 a Sima became Emperor. 669 00:42:22,933 --> 00:42:26,066 Forty years later, the realm fell into great chaos. That was useless. 670 00:42:26,100 --> 00:42:27,500 Now, seven hundred years later, 671 00:42:27,866 --> 00:42:29,600 another Sima clan takes the exams. 672 00:42:29,800 --> 00:42:31,533 Forty years without passing. 673 00:42:31,733 --> 00:42:32,933 Also useless. 674 00:42:35,066 --> 00:42:38,700 This seven-hundred-year span of uselessness is truly unprecedented in history 675 00:42:38,700 --> 00:42:41,233 and unlikely to be matched in the future. 676 00:42:42,700 --> 00:42:44,200 Come on. Have some tea. 677 00:42:45,900 --> 00:42:49,733 Failing again this time, I have no choice but to return to my village. 678 00:42:51,000 --> 00:42:51,500 Sir. 679 00:42:52,833 --> 00:42:54,000 My master invites you. 680 00:42:54,466 --> 00:42:59,766 [Sima Pu, a juren, qualified for taking exams] Please, sir, do not hesitate to impart your wisdom. 681 00:43:24,433 --> 00:43:27,400 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles stretch towering mountains. ♫ 682 00:43:27,900 --> 00:43:30,866 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles run surging rivers. ♫ 683 00:43:31,433 --> 00:43:34,400 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles cry warhorses. ♫ 684 00:43:34,900 --> 00:43:39,000 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles there are emotions unspoken. ♫ 685 00:43:39,933 --> 00:43:42,900 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, flowers are blooming along the road. ♫ 686 00:43:43,400 --> 00:43:46,366 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, gooses are returning to the north. ♫ 687 00:43:46,933 --> 00:43:49,900 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, we stand through storms. ♫ 688 00:43:50,400 --> 00:43:54,500 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, we hope for a safe return. ♫ 689 00:43:58,700 --> 00:44:01,366 ♫ Tens of thousands of miles is not enough, ♫ 690 00:44:01,966 --> 00:44:04,866 ♫ for a lifetime's sorrows and joys. ♫ 691 00:44:05,500 --> 00:44:08,166 ♫ Tens of thousands of miles is not enough, ♫ 692 00:44:08,766 --> 00:44:11,666 ♫ for the endless seas and rivers. ♫ 693 00:44:12,466 --> 00:44:15,133 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 694 00:44:15,733 --> 00:44:18,633 ♫ love will overcome all barriers. ♫ 695 00:44:19,333 --> 00:44:20,633 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 696 00:44:21,300 --> 00:44:25,033 ♫ we are together in life and death. ♫ 697 00:44:25,966 --> 00:44:29,000 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles. ♫ 698 00:44:32,700 --> 00:44:35,733 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles. ♫ 699 00:44:39,633 --> 00:44:40,966 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 700 00:44:41,333 --> 00:44:42,766 ♫ the moon shines in the boundless world. ♫ 701 00:44:43,100 --> 00:44:46,333 ♫ My heart has its hometown to return. ♫ 702 00:44:46,533 --> 00:44:47,866 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 703 00:44:48,233 --> 00:44:49,666 ♫ who is the one crossing the waves with me, ♫ 704 00:44:50,000 --> 00:44:53,233 ♫ with our hearts unrepentant, through countless lifetimes. ♫ 705 00:44:53,433 --> 00:44:54,866 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 706 00:44:55,133 --> 00:44:56,666 ♫ oceans and lands witness that♫ 707 00:44:56,900 --> 00:44:59,666 ♫ the world will be safe and sound. ♫ 708 00:45:00,066 --> 00:45:03,100 ♫ Across tens of thousands of miles, ♫ 709 00:45:11,266 --> 00:45:15,433 ♫ my heart is unchanging. ♫