1 00:00:56,393 --> 00:01:02,692 (The Shadow Sovereign) 2 00:01:07,115 --> 00:01:09,448 You have never stayed overnight at my residence. 3 00:01:09,604 --> 00:01:12,018 You sound like you know me pretty well. 4 00:01:13,377 --> 00:01:15,632 You're always suspicious of me and Shen Xiao. 5 00:01:16,157 --> 00:01:17,440 Do you want me to get caught 6 00:01:17,538 --> 00:01:20,120 so you can make room for your new mistress? 7 00:01:22,115 --> 00:01:23,352 Li Shu. 8 00:01:23,693 --> 00:01:26,041 If I didn't know you hated me, 9 00:01:26,483 --> 00:01:28,174 I would've thought 10 00:01:28,435 --> 00:01:30,436 that you were just jealous. 11 00:01:35,716 --> 00:01:36,953 Let go of me! 12 00:01:37,854 --> 00:01:39,975 How did it come to this between us? 13 00:01:40,056 --> 00:01:41,136 Let go! 14 00:01:41,436 --> 00:01:42,673 Let go of me! 15 00:01:43,107 --> 00:01:44,298 Let go of me! 16 00:01:46,660 --> 00:01:47,897 Let go of me! 17 00:02:12,387 --> 00:02:14,240 That was in the past. Why keep bringing it up? 18 00:02:20,308 --> 00:02:22,121 I'm not the one who saved Shen Xiao. 19 00:02:22,843 --> 00:02:24,138 You're blaming the wrong person. 20 00:02:30,915 --> 00:02:32,053 I'm tired. 21 00:02:32,475 --> 00:02:33,626 Just go. 22 00:02:59,164 --> 00:03:00,497 Get some rest. 23 00:03:17,021 --> 00:03:19,301 He insulted you on your wedding night. 24 00:03:20,211 --> 00:03:21,666 He even kept a mistress. 25 00:03:23,060 --> 00:03:24,674 What's so shocking about that? 26 00:03:25,515 --> 00:03:27,370 Isn't every man like this? 27 00:03:30,118 --> 00:03:31,758 Does that make it okay? 28 00:03:31,879 --> 00:03:34,160 Even if it's not okay, does that mean it'll never happen? 29 00:03:37,356 --> 00:03:39,410 Do you still care about the Prince Consort? 30 00:03:44,316 --> 00:03:45,503 No. 31 00:03:45,698 --> 00:03:48,624 Since you are done and divorced, why are you still involved with him? 32 00:03:49,475 --> 00:03:51,013 Who do you think you are? 33 00:03:51,516 --> 00:03:52,806 You are just a male companion. 34 00:03:52,976 --> 00:03:55,149 You think you have any say in my life? 35 00:03:58,772 --> 00:04:01,187 What if I don't want to be just your male companion? 36 00:04:10,053 --> 00:04:11,570 Are you crazy? 37 00:04:12,350 --> 00:04:13,950 Did you not hear what I said? 38 00:04:14,072 --> 00:04:16,192 Just do your job and stay out of trouble! 39 00:04:16,348 --> 00:04:18,601 Like I don't have enough trouble already? 40 00:04:24,595 --> 00:04:25,832 I get it. 41 00:04:27,444 --> 00:04:29,898 You and the Prince Consort aren't like normal couples. 42 00:04:31,283 --> 00:04:32,898 Only when the Crown Prince falls, 43 00:04:33,636 --> 00:04:35,730 will you finally be free. 44 00:04:39,772 --> 00:04:41,226 Whatever I need to do, 45 00:04:42,276 --> 00:04:43,851 I'll do it all. 46 00:05:17,555 --> 00:05:19,160 That Shen scoundrel... 47 00:05:19,435 --> 00:05:22,174 No. Censor Shen really is something else. 48 00:05:22,276 --> 00:05:23,355 I thought 49 00:05:23,446 --> 00:05:25,914 it was Censor Shen who stole your heart. 50 00:05:26,099 --> 00:05:27,379 But now, it looks like 51 00:05:27,498 --> 00:05:29,953 it's you who gave your heart away. 52 00:05:30,499 --> 00:05:31,833 What nonsense are you spouting? 53 00:05:35,595 --> 00:05:37,671 Your Highness, are you having a headache again? 54 00:05:37,781 --> 00:05:40,736 Without Censor Shen here tonight, are you going to have nightmares again? 55 00:05:40,907 --> 00:05:42,958 How about I call Censor Shen back for you? 56 00:05:43,057 --> 00:05:44,537 He works better than any medicine. 57 00:05:44,618 --> 00:05:46,032 What Censor Shen? 58 00:05:46,693 --> 00:05:47,930 He's just Shen the scoundrel. 59 00:05:48,037 --> 00:05:49,957 A meddling fool who can't mind his own business! 60 00:05:57,333 --> 00:06:01,173 Seventh Prince Qin has traveled across the realm, 61 00:06:01,264 --> 00:06:02,984 bringing treasures as tribute. 62 00:06:03,075 --> 00:06:04,714 His Majesty is pleased, 63 00:06:04,805 --> 00:06:08,579 thus inviting officials and royal kin to join the celebration 64 00:06:08,892 --> 00:06:11,265 to share His Majesty's grace. 65 00:06:18,780 --> 00:06:21,620 I have returned from my journey and prepared three gifts 66 00:06:21,938 --> 00:06:23,592 to present to you, Father. 67 00:06:26,931 --> 00:06:28,345 This is the first gift. 68 00:06:28,907 --> 00:06:30,640 The finest rice harvested this year 69 00:06:30,797 --> 00:06:33,357 from Wanming Granary in Jiangnan. 70 00:06:33,461 --> 00:06:34,795 Every grain is as pure as jade. 71 00:06:35,755 --> 00:06:37,355 Guanzhong suffered a drought earlier. 72 00:06:37,559 --> 00:06:39,607 I was concerned when I heard about it. 73 00:06:40,035 --> 00:06:41,687 So I brought this rice as tribute. 74 00:06:41,857 --> 00:06:44,602 May our Ye Dynasty enjoy a bountiful harvest. 75 00:06:45,491 --> 00:06:46,986 The drought in Guanzhong. 76 00:06:47,551 --> 00:06:49,325 This rice is truly a good omen. 77 00:06:49,894 --> 00:06:51,131 Excellent. 78 00:06:51,487 --> 00:06:53,534 Father, this is the second gift. 79 00:06:53,860 --> 00:06:55,379 I passed through Longxi 80 00:06:55,499 --> 00:06:57,114 and found an ancient, nameless stele, 81 00:06:57,555 --> 00:06:59,420 engraved with a folk song passed down for centuries, 82 00:06:59,444 --> 00:07:00,819 praising the love of parents, 83 00:07:01,068 --> 00:07:02,708 and wishing peace for home and the state. 84 00:07:02,879 --> 00:07:04,258 I made a rubbing and present it to you. 85 00:07:04,282 --> 00:07:05,519 May Father 86 00:07:06,086 --> 00:07:08,019 enjoy a prosperous and long life in good health. 87 00:07:09,029 --> 00:07:10,602 This gift is simple and sincere. 88 00:07:11,821 --> 00:07:13,235 My son is truly thoughtful. 89 00:07:15,092 --> 00:07:17,066 Father, please look at the last gift. 90 00:07:22,195 --> 00:07:23,517 This last gift 91 00:07:23,679 --> 00:07:25,533 is the Ye Dynasty Illustrated Almanac. 92 00:07:26,147 --> 00:07:28,913 After leaving the palace, I traveled throughout Ye. 93 00:07:29,052 --> 00:07:31,092 I documented every mountain, river, and city I saw, 94 00:07:31,252 --> 00:07:34,154 along with the customs and local products in this almanac. 95 00:07:35,731 --> 00:07:37,390 Although the almanac is complete, 96 00:07:38,092 --> 00:07:39,772 it still needs some refining. 97 00:07:39,863 --> 00:07:41,640 Please allow me 98 00:07:41,867 --> 00:07:44,696 to stay at Qianfo Temple to focus on completing the illustrations. 99 00:07:45,108 --> 00:07:47,310 So I can soon present it to you, Father. 100 00:07:48,532 --> 00:07:49,769 Very good. 101 00:07:50,164 --> 00:07:53,329 Such magnificent landscapes are all captured by my son. 102 00:07:54,204 --> 00:07:55,441 Issue the decree. 103 00:07:55,647 --> 00:07:57,238 Bestow upon Seventh Prince Li Qin 104 00:07:57,319 --> 00:07:59,133 ten bars of tribute ink from the West 105 00:07:59,244 --> 00:08:00,429 and 100 bolts of tribute silk. 106 00:08:00,453 --> 00:08:02,253 He is permitted to walk before the throne. 107 00:08:02,382 --> 00:08:04,369 You can stay at the Tranquil Room at Qianfo Temple 108 00:08:04,393 --> 00:08:06,011 to focus on finishing the almanac. 109 00:08:06,291 --> 00:08:07,545 All expenses 110 00:08:07,724 --> 00:08:09,658 will be covered by the inner court. 111 00:08:11,892 --> 00:08:13,506 Thank you for your grace, Father. 112 00:08:23,261 --> 00:08:25,363 Seventh Brother vanished for ten years without a word. 113 00:08:25,387 --> 00:08:26,721 Now, you've suddenly returned, 114 00:08:27,294 --> 00:08:28,871 making everyone see you in a whole new light. 115 00:08:28,895 --> 00:08:30,229 Thank you for the compliment. 116 00:08:30,917 --> 00:08:33,697 I am of little use to the nation. 117 00:08:34,092 --> 00:08:36,946 I can only do small and insignificant things. 118 00:08:37,963 --> 00:08:39,200 Alright. 119 00:08:39,309 --> 00:08:41,283 Then finish the almanac well. 120 00:08:41,667 --> 00:08:43,320 Don't let Father down. 121 00:08:45,812 --> 00:08:47,049 Yes, Brother. 122 00:08:56,355 --> 00:08:58,049 Compared to mine, 123 00:08:58,339 --> 00:09:01,770 the landscapes you painted have an even grander aura. 124 00:09:01,917 --> 00:09:04,411 Three gifts brought you back before the throne. 125 00:09:04,519 --> 00:09:06,039 So these ten years have been worth it. 126 00:09:06,150 --> 00:09:08,964 For now, just focus on your cultivation at Qianfo Temple. 127 00:09:09,122 --> 00:09:11,042 Wait until Shen Xiao pits the Crown Prince 128 00:09:11,193 --> 00:09:13,214 against the Second Prince and both are weakened, 129 00:09:13,295 --> 00:09:15,374 then you'll return to court. 130 00:09:15,603 --> 00:09:18,432 I have no doubts about your plan. 131 00:09:19,891 --> 00:09:21,128 It's just that 132 00:09:21,268 --> 00:09:24,771 don't you intend to share our plan with Shen Xiao? 133 00:09:27,371 --> 00:09:29,051 I recommended him to you back then. 134 00:09:29,137 --> 00:09:31,571 But now, we've put him in danger by himself. 135 00:09:31,871 --> 00:09:33,072 I feel uneasy about it. 136 00:09:33,172 --> 00:09:35,160 We see each other as close friends. 137 00:09:35,644 --> 00:09:37,018 But we've kept this a secret 138 00:09:37,830 --> 00:09:39,284 from him all this while. 139 00:09:42,851 --> 00:09:44,506 You recommended him to me. 140 00:09:44,668 --> 00:09:48,354 But you didn't know he did plenty of ruthless things for his career. 141 00:09:48,605 --> 00:09:50,975 He has a calculative mind, and he acts decisively. 142 00:09:51,066 --> 00:09:53,160 If his goals align with ours, 143 00:09:53,771 --> 00:09:55,611 he'll eventually find out about your identity. 144 00:09:55,843 --> 00:09:58,178 What if his goals don't match ours? 145 00:09:59,867 --> 00:10:02,242 You're meant to sit on the throne one day. 146 00:10:02,867 --> 00:10:04,762 You can't let personal feelings hold you back. 147 00:10:05,915 --> 00:10:07,197 But I promise you 148 00:10:07,868 --> 00:10:09,322 that I'll spare his life. 149 00:10:09,868 --> 00:10:11,105 Remember. 150 00:10:11,186 --> 00:10:12,920 No matter who gets hurt along the way, 151 00:10:13,539 --> 00:10:16,192 we can't let anything stop us from reaching our goal. 152 00:10:19,484 --> 00:10:20,817 I understand. 153 00:10:26,652 --> 00:10:29,730 He's the cursed child who killed his own mother during birth. 154 00:10:30,035 --> 00:10:32,235 Father has always seen him as a jinx. 155 00:10:32,971 --> 00:10:35,185 He's never attended the court for a single day. 156 00:10:35,708 --> 00:10:36,854 I just don't believe 157 00:10:38,145 --> 00:10:41,472 that he can turn the tables with just these three worthless gifts. 158 00:10:41,876 --> 00:10:43,113 Could it be 159 00:10:44,451 --> 00:10:46,545 that he's here to fight me for the throne 160 00:10:46,659 --> 00:10:48,617 like Second Brother? 161 00:10:49,156 --> 00:10:50,393 Ridiculous. 162 00:10:50,960 --> 00:10:52,643 It's too much of a coincidence for Seventh Prince 163 00:10:52,667 --> 00:10:54,238 to return to the capital now, 164 00:10:54,351 --> 00:10:56,525 He showed up just as Shen Xiao appeared. 165 00:10:56,947 --> 00:10:58,835 It's definitely not a coincidence, Your Highness. 166 00:10:58,859 --> 00:11:00,673 Does he have connections with Shen Xiao? 167 00:11:01,460 --> 00:11:02,697 Or has he come back 168 00:11:03,925 --> 00:11:06,098 to help Second Brother? 169 00:11:07,786 --> 00:11:11,062 Now Shen Xiao and Second Prince are clearly looking for your wrongdoings. 170 00:11:11,417 --> 00:11:12,988 Luckily, we're prepared. 171 00:11:13,139 --> 00:11:14,554 As for Seventh Prince, 172 00:11:14,932 --> 00:11:16,626 he has no foundation at court yet. 173 00:11:16,717 --> 00:11:17,917 He's not a threat for now, 174 00:11:18,163 --> 00:11:20,003 but we should still remind the elders at court 175 00:11:20,236 --> 00:11:21,889 so they don't get any ideas about him. 176 00:11:23,429 --> 00:11:25,920 It's time these people get a wake-up call. 177 00:11:26,828 --> 00:11:28,988 My birthday banquet in three days 178 00:11:29,131 --> 00:11:30,626 will be the perfect opportunity. 179 00:11:36,955 --> 00:11:38,795 I've invited all of you here today 180 00:11:38,876 --> 00:11:40,357 not just for my birthday celebration. 181 00:11:40,448 --> 00:11:42,162 It's because the nation is facing a disaster now. 182 00:11:42,186 --> 00:11:43,910 The Eastern Palace will set up a relief granary 183 00:11:43,934 --> 00:11:45,156 to support the nation when needed. 184 00:11:45,180 --> 00:11:46,220 To set an example, 185 00:11:46,311 --> 00:11:48,751 the Eastern Palace will donate 100,000 piculs of grain first. 186 00:11:49,322 --> 00:11:51,056 I hope everyone will join in. 187 00:11:54,476 --> 00:11:55,713 This... 188 00:11:57,502 --> 00:11:59,612 (What's all this about preparing for national crisis?) 189 00:11:59,636 --> 00:12:02,320 (The Crown Prince is taking advantage of Le Sheng's return) 190 00:12:02,487 --> 00:12:06,169 (to invite all the neutral officials here using this birthday banquet.) 191 00:12:06,580 --> 00:12:08,576 (He just wants to tie the noble families down) 192 00:12:08,708 --> 00:12:10,883 (and show off to Father.) 193 00:12:13,004 --> 00:12:15,004 The Zheng family is willing to support your cause. 194 00:12:20,411 --> 00:12:22,666 You have my support too. 195 00:12:31,853 --> 00:12:33,331 You have the Sang family's support. 196 00:12:33,459 --> 00:12:35,112 You have the Ding family's support too. 197 00:12:36,251 --> 00:12:37,865 You have the Bai family's support too. 198 00:12:38,366 --> 00:12:39,483 You have my support. 199 00:12:39,574 --> 00:12:43,868 - You have my support too. - I'll support you. 200 00:12:46,579 --> 00:12:48,495 May I ask, will the grains for the relief granary 201 00:12:48,519 --> 00:12:50,399 be managed by the Ministry of Revenue 202 00:12:50,514 --> 00:12:53,194 or should we follow the Eastern Palace's command? 203 00:12:55,955 --> 00:12:57,146 Second Brother, 204 00:12:59,052 --> 00:13:01,065 are you questioning my loyalty? 205 00:13:17,103 --> 00:13:19,794 Your Highness's devotion to the nation and its people is evident. 206 00:13:19,891 --> 00:13:21,185 I, Shen Xiao, 207 00:13:21,740 --> 00:13:25,232 have specially come here to wish the Crown Princess prosperity and health. 208 00:13:25,731 --> 00:13:28,331 I heard the Crown Princess is donating grains to build a granary. 209 00:13:28,376 --> 00:13:31,140 I admire your benevolence for the people. 210 00:13:31,245 --> 00:13:33,778 So, I've specially brought you a birthday gift. 211 00:13:46,924 --> 00:13:48,952 - What's that smell? - It's a rice sack. 212 00:13:52,989 --> 00:13:54,389 This is clearly dirt. 213 00:13:54,517 --> 00:13:55,837 How dare you insult me? 214 00:13:55,928 --> 00:13:58,499 It's not an insult. This is the reality among the people. 215 00:13:58,590 --> 00:14:00,843 The grains people buy from officials now 216 00:14:01,251 --> 00:14:04,875 are mixed with dirt and husks. 217 00:14:05,309 --> 00:14:07,443 Doesn't this show you 218 00:14:07,732 --> 00:14:09,826 the urgency of building a relief granary? 219 00:14:11,220 --> 00:14:12,713 You arrogant brat. 220 00:14:13,396 --> 00:14:15,161 - Seize him! - My fellow officials. 221 00:14:15,444 --> 00:14:19,090 Have you heard the cries of the people outside? 222 00:14:31,643 --> 00:14:32,971 Your Highness! 223 00:14:33,052 --> 00:14:35,692 Bad news. The refugees have blocked the gates upon hearing 224 00:14:35,805 --> 00:14:38,445 the Crown Princess is giving out porridge at her birthday banquet. 225 00:14:39,843 --> 00:14:41,198 This is rebellion! 226 00:14:41,700 --> 00:14:42,937 This is rebellion! 227 00:14:47,152 --> 00:14:48,472 We can't investigate any further. 228 00:14:48,523 --> 00:14:51,203 The Crown Prince has stalled the Yongtong Canal's construction. 229 00:14:51,295 --> 00:14:53,243 He's trying to bring down the Ministry of Revenue. 230 00:14:53,267 --> 00:14:55,387 To build the canal, we need to distribute the grains. 231 00:14:55,891 --> 00:14:58,235 We can't stall any longer. 232 00:14:58,378 --> 00:15:00,720 Grains? Where are we supposed to get grains from? 233 00:15:01,420 --> 00:15:03,180 Can we use the military grains from Taicang? 234 00:15:03,266 --> 00:15:05,880 The royals, noble families, and honored officials 235 00:15:06,245 --> 00:15:08,138 have surplus grains. 236 00:15:08,939 --> 00:15:10,659 The only way is to collect grains from them 237 00:15:10,893 --> 00:15:12,546 to break the Crown Prince's plan. 238 00:15:12,843 --> 00:15:14,323 Then the Yongtong Canal can be built. 239 00:15:14,367 --> 00:15:15,872 And the people can be saved. 240 00:15:15,977 --> 00:15:17,197 Collecting grains? 241 00:15:17,308 --> 00:15:19,637 Taking food from the mouths of nobles and officials 242 00:15:19,806 --> 00:15:21,715 is basically cutting yourself off from the court. 243 00:15:21,739 --> 00:15:23,473 No one would do that. 244 00:15:25,827 --> 00:15:27,064 I'm willing to do that. 245 00:15:27,243 --> 00:15:28,857 But I need an imperial decree. 246 00:15:29,026 --> 00:15:30,681 To get that decree, 247 00:15:30,955 --> 00:15:34,217 I have to borrow some support from the Crown Prince first. 248 00:15:36,348 --> 00:15:37,585 This is rebellion! 249 00:16:38,161 --> 00:16:39,535 Back up! 250 00:16:39,616 --> 00:16:40,840 Move aside! 251 00:16:40,979 --> 00:16:43,370 What are you doing? Are you rebelling? 252 00:16:44,828 --> 00:16:45,959 Back up! 253 00:16:46,596 --> 00:16:49,996 Please, have mercy. My child is starving to death. 254 00:16:50,467 --> 00:16:52,760 Please have some mercy, noble ones. 255 00:16:53,827 --> 00:16:55,880 Please, have mercy. 256 00:16:58,532 --> 00:17:01,252 Noble one, just give me a bowl of porridge. 257 00:17:01,355 --> 00:17:03,289 I'm begging you. 258 00:17:03,956 --> 00:17:05,835 Please help us. 259 00:17:05,934 --> 00:17:07,171 Go away! 260 00:17:31,043 --> 00:17:32,640 Anyone trespassing in the residence 261 00:17:32,884 --> 00:17:34,560 will be treated as a rioter. 262 00:17:39,867 --> 00:17:41,236 They're citizens, 263 00:17:41,539 --> 00:17:42,735 not rioters. 264 00:17:43,380 --> 00:17:45,122 Didn't the Crown Prince set up this banquet of love 265 00:17:45,146 --> 00:17:46,960 to help the people? 266 00:17:49,915 --> 00:17:54,290 That's right. Today's banquet is meant to aid the disaster victims. 267 00:17:54,667 --> 00:17:56,787 Guards, set up the porridge stalls. 268 00:17:56,949 --> 00:18:00,802 Thank you, noble one. 269 00:18:09,556 --> 00:18:11,075 The imperial decree has arrived! 270 00:18:11,156 --> 00:18:13,756 Shen Xiao of the Ministry of Revenue, accept this decree. 271 00:18:13,847 --> 00:18:17,520 I am pleased with the Crown Princess's disaster relief birthday banquet. 272 00:18:17,628 --> 00:18:20,865 I hereby order Shen Xiao, the censor of the Ministry of Revenue, 273 00:18:20,956 --> 00:18:22,889 to collect grains with this decree. 274 00:18:23,036 --> 00:18:24,595 From princes and nobles downward, 275 00:18:24,750 --> 00:18:26,520 all those of high rank 276 00:18:26,640 --> 00:18:28,481 with 1,000 piculs as salary, 277 00:18:28,589 --> 00:18:30,723 must donate according to their means 278 00:18:30,814 --> 00:18:33,268 to meet the urgent needs of the nation. 279 00:18:33,411 --> 00:18:35,091 We are at a difficult time. 280 00:18:35,187 --> 00:18:36,680 People's lives are at stake. 281 00:18:36,755 --> 00:18:39,826 Helping the nation in hardship shows true loyalty. 282 00:18:40,056 --> 00:18:42,148 May you all understand my kind intentions 283 00:18:42,245 --> 00:18:43,939 and work together for this cause. 284 00:18:44,020 --> 00:18:46,400 Do not betray the court's favor. 285 00:18:46,501 --> 00:18:48,074 So decreed. 286 00:18:48,725 --> 00:18:51,018 I, Shen Xiao, accept the decree. 287 00:19:13,148 --> 00:19:15,082 Shen Xiao is ordered to collect grains. 288 00:19:15,715 --> 00:19:17,010 Have you heard about that? 289 00:19:17,965 --> 00:19:19,419 (I haven't just heard about it.) 290 00:19:20,034 --> 00:19:22,080 (I haven't seen him for half a month.) 291 00:19:22,404 --> 00:19:24,578 (It's kept me up at night lately.) 292 00:19:27,867 --> 00:19:29,482 I have heard a bit about it. 293 00:19:30,083 --> 00:19:31,704 I heard Shen Xiao 294 00:19:31,886 --> 00:19:34,144 has been visiting all the noble families recently. 295 00:19:34,314 --> 00:19:35,848 But with little success. 296 00:19:36,197 --> 00:19:37,651 So far, the grains collected 297 00:19:37,993 --> 00:19:39,447 are less than 50,000 piculs. 298 00:19:40,453 --> 00:19:42,306 Less than 50,000 piculs? 299 00:19:46,764 --> 00:19:48,001 Shen Xiao 300 00:19:48,347 --> 00:19:50,482 is not just collecting grains for Yongtong Canal. 301 00:19:50,676 --> 00:19:52,451 It's also for me. 302 00:19:52,700 --> 00:19:53,954 These people 303 00:19:54,493 --> 00:19:56,306 are humiliating me. 304 00:20:12,285 --> 00:20:13,522 I want you 305 00:20:13,941 --> 00:20:16,155 to lead the grain donation for Shen Xiao. 306 00:20:19,052 --> 00:20:20,666 You're my daughter, 307 00:20:21,292 --> 00:20:23,080 and a member of the Cui family. 308 00:20:23,452 --> 00:20:25,226 You are close to the Eastern Palace. 309 00:20:25,635 --> 00:20:26,970 If you take action, 310 00:20:27,588 --> 00:20:29,441 the noble families and royals 311 00:20:29,996 --> 00:20:32,250 will understand my intentions. 312 00:20:34,444 --> 00:20:37,313 You have the richest estate with tens of thousands of piculs. 313 00:20:37,540 --> 00:20:39,194 It won't affect you. 314 00:20:42,341 --> 00:20:43,578 Father, 315 00:20:44,138 --> 00:20:45,707 my estate 316 00:20:45,933 --> 00:20:48,200 is the same as Princess An Le's. 317 00:20:49,780 --> 00:20:51,017 How would 318 00:20:51,597 --> 00:20:53,692 An Le know the court's hardships? 319 00:20:54,339 --> 00:20:57,061 She can't compare to you. 320 00:21:01,427 --> 00:21:02,762 Yes, Father. 321 00:21:03,900 --> 00:21:06,074 (Looks like Father wants to use me) 322 00:21:06,252 --> 00:21:08,800 (to warn the Crown Prince and the noble families.) 323 00:21:12,755 --> 00:21:15,265 Xiao Que, don't run! 324 00:21:15,372 --> 00:21:16,609 Xiao Que. 325 00:21:17,356 --> 00:21:18,593 Xiao Que. 326 00:21:19,356 --> 00:21:20,593 Stop running. 327 00:21:21,356 --> 00:21:22,593 Xiao Que. 328 00:21:26,260 --> 00:21:28,570 - Your Highness. - Please spare me, noble one! 329 00:21:28,651 --> 00:21:30,306 Please spare me, noble one! 330 00:21:31,107 --> 00:21:32,361 What's wrong, Xiao Que? 331 00:21:34,508 --> 00:21:37,548 I said I'd teach her to read, and she ran out. 332 00:21:37,660 --> 00:21:40,580 Noble one, I don't want to learn to read. 333 00:21:40,683 --> 00:21:43,283 A Gui secretly learned a few words, 334 00:21:43,421 --> 00:21:45,838 and her master gouged out her eyes. 335 00:21:46,444 --> 00:21:47,885 You saved me. 336 00:21:48,036 --> 00:21:50,409 I'll work for you like a horse or ox. 337 00:21:50,596 --> 00:21:52,920 Don't make me study. 338 00:21:53,677 --> 00:21:54,914 Low-borns. 339 00:21:56,160 --> 00:21:57,492 Where is your master now? 340 00:21:57,631 --> 00:22:01,026 When we were fleeing, our master died of illness. 341 00:22:01,995 --> 00:22:04,370 Grandma brought me here while escaping. 342 00:22:04,780 --> 00:22:07,034 She starved to death too. 343 00:22:07,587 --> 00:22:08,922 I see. 344 00:22:09,403 --> 00:22:10,738 According to Ye law, 345 00:22:11,012 --> 00:22:13,793 only those above commoner status can learn to read and write. 346 00:22:14,236 --> 00:22:16,300 If someone of low-born status learns to read or write, 347 00:22:16,324 --> 00:22:17,964 it's considered overstepping their place. 348 00:22:18,329 --> 00:22:20,145 No wonder you're so scared. 349 00:22:23,332 --> 00:22:24,665 From today on, 350 00:22:25,082 --> 00:22:26,657 I'll remove your low-born status. 351 00:22:27,099 --> 00:22:28,873 You can learn to read and write now. 352 00:22:29,636 --> 00:22:30,873 Really? 353 00:22:31,268 --> 00:22:32,505 Really? 354 00:22:33,596 --> 00:22:34,859 Of course. 355 00:22:35,036 --> 00:22:37,335 A princess never goes back on her word. She wouldn't lie. 356 00:22:37,867 --> 00:22:39,121 Let's head to the study. 357 00:22:39,579 --> 00:22:40,720 Thank you, noble one! 358 00:22:40,801 --> 00:22:42,374 Thank you, noble one! 359 00:22:43,516 --> 00:22:44,753 Get up. 360 00:22:46,082 --> 00:22:47,920 Let's go. Let's head to the study. 361 00:22:48,267 --> 00:22:49,599 Xiao Que, that's the wrong way. 362 00:22:49,764 --> 00:22:51,001 This way. 363 00:22:52,308 --> 00:22:54,080 Come on. This way. 364 00:22:54,722 --> 00:22:56,202 She's just like a little sparrow. 365 00:22:56,307 --> 00:22:58,267 That's why they call me Xiao Que. 366 00:22:58,358 --> 00:22:59,918 Grandma says I'm clever. 367 00:23:00,025 --> 00:23:01,963 That's why I always manage to get food. 368 00:23:02,054 --> 00:23:04,570 Otherwise, I'd have starved to death long ago. 369 00:23:04,995 --> 00:23:06,850 From now on, we won't have to fight for food. 370 00:23:08,812 --> 00:23:10,746 Are you really going to take her home? 371 00:23:16,886 --> 00:23:18,766 Nobles look down on those from humble families, 372 00:23:19,707 --> 00:23:21,602 the newly rich look down on commoners, 373 00:23:22,220 --> 00:23:24,000 and commoners look down on the low-borns. 374 00:23:24,445 --> 00:23:25,859 But the low-borns 375 00:23:26,740 --> 00:23:28,355 aren't even considered people. 376 00:23:29,469 --> 00:23:31,323 Are we really any better? 377 00:23:31,444 --> 00:23:33,378 We're just low-borns in the palace. 378 00:23:37,387 --> 00:23:38,624 Le Sheng. 379 00:23:40,133 --> 00:23:42,587 This world is rotten to the core. 380 00:23:44,556 --> 00:23:46,490 So it's time for a change. 381 00:23:51,763 --> 00:23:54,098 His Majesty ordered me to donate grains to Shen Xiao. 382 00:23:54,903 --> 00:23:57,443 They are forcing you instead of pressuring the Crown Prince. 383 00:23:57,932 --> 00:24:00,265 Isn't that making you openly oppose the Crown Prince? 384 00:24:01,891 --> 00:24:03,785 I've always been just a pawn. 385 00:24:04,220 --> 00:24:06,273 To Father and the Crown Prince, it's all the same. 386 00:24:07,956 --> 00:24:09,956 Before the Crown Prince loses His Majesty's favor, 387 00:24:10,581 --> 00:24:12,315 I have to donate these grains. 388 00:24:13,276 --> 00:24:15,409 Do you have a perfect plan? 389 00:24:16,275 --> 00:24:19,250 No. But after walking on thin ice for so long, 390 00:24:19,964 --> 00:24:22,124 I've gained some experience and learned to strategize. 391 00:24:24,541 --> 00:24:26,461 Shen Xiao has gone around to collect grains. 392 00:24:26,542 --> 00:24:28,516 It's time he came to my doorstep. 393 00:24:29,188 --> 00:24:31,642 I'll use him to make a risky move. 394 00:24:32,724 --> 00:24:34,577 It'll help me keep His Majesty's favor, 395 00:24:35,556 --> 00:24:37,530 and strike at the Eastern Palace. 396 00:24:40,052 --> 00:24:42,956 Ladies, this peony is mine now. 397 00:24:43,036 --> 00:24:45,155 - That's some big talk. - Yeah. 398 00:24:45,235 --> 00:24:46,800 The princess is here. You can't win. 399 00:24:46,931 --> 00:24:49,506 Enough with the chatter. Go ahead and pull the bow. 400 00:24:51,203 --> 00:24:53,083 - Embarrassed now, aren't you? - Exactly. 401 00:24:53,195 --> 00:24:55,200 - Let me try. - You're not even as good as me. 402 00:24:55,291 --> 00:24:56,984 I'm definitely better than you. 403 00:25:08,356 --> 00:25:09,593 Your Highness. 404 00:25:10,524 --> 00:25:11,761 Xiao Que. 405 00:25:13,426 --> 00:25:15,701 What are those nobles doing? 406 00:25:16,413 --> 00:25:18,453 They're threading flowers and testing their hearts. 407 00:25:18,501 --> 00:25:21,266 Inside that flower ball, there's a peony. 408 00:25:21,588 --> 00:25:23,802 When the peony blooms, it outshines all other flowers. 409 00:25:23,956 --> 00:25:26,150 Every other beauty bows before it. 410 00:25:27,363 --> 00:25:30,396 That peony is today's prize. 411 00:25:30,491 --> 00:25:33,823 Your Highness, what are you even saying? 412 00:25:33,947 --> 00:25:35,360 That's awesome. 413 00:25:35,441 --> 00:25:37,026 I want to be a scholar too. 414 00:25:37,154 --> 00:25:38,928 I want to be that amazing. 415 00:25:42,915 --> 00:25:44,329 (Scholars) 416 00:25:45,138 --> 00:25:47,087 (have to read tons and tons of books.) 417 00:25:47,588 --> 00:25:49,363 (The mountains and rivers on maps, ) 418 00:25:49,949 --> 00:25:51,562 (the customs in travel journals, ) 419 00:25:52,108 --> 00:25:53,882 (and the rise and fall in history books.) 420 00:25:55,139 --> 00:25:57,433 (I learned these things back then just to survive) 421 00:25:57,675 --> 00:25:59,595 (by becoming the Crown Prince's study companion) 422 00:25:59,675 --> 00:26:01,788 (and copying books for him.) 423 00:26:08,376 --> 00:26:11,968 Then I'll teach you to read and write myself from now on. 424 00:26:12,995 --> 00:26:14,779 Thank you, Your Highness, my benefactor. 425 00:26:14,915 --> 00:26:16,650 Good girl. Get up. 426 00:26:20,076 --> 00:26:22,729 Your Highness, Censor Shen has requested an audience. 427 00:26:24,217 --> 00:26:27,018 Censor Shen. 428 00:26:27,337 --> 00:26:29,859 Is that Censor Shen? 429 00:26:38,131 --> 00:26:39,691 Your Highness, Censor Shen has arrived. 430 00:26:39,735 --> 00:26:40,972 Oh, it's him. 431 00:26:44,139 --> 00:26:45,536 He really is handsome. 432 00:26:49,179 --> 00:26:52,244 He's the noble who saved me together with the Princess. 433 00:26:58,715 --> 00:27:01,169 Your Highness, I've brought the grain collection decree. 434 00:27:01,518 --> 00:27:03,252 I'm here to collect grain from you. 435 00:27:05,116 --> 00:27:06,880 So, it's about grain collection. 436 00:27:07,030 --> 00:27:08,326 What's going on? 437 00:27:09,740 --> 00:27:12,120 I didn't expect Censor Shen to come in person. 438 00:27:12,495 --> 00:27:14,922 - He even came to the Xianke Bordello to collect grains. - Right? 439 00:27:14,946 --> 00:27:16,359 He has come all the way here. 440 00:27:16,467 --> 00:27:18,282 It's been ages since we last met. 441 00:27:19,123 --> 00:27:20,360 And now that we finally meet, 442 00:27:21,171 --> 00:27:23,425 do you have to hit me with such a buzzkill topic? 443 00:27:30,260 --> 00:27:32,600 - Top Scholar is getting shy. - What's going on?