Original subtitles

from Bordered Yellow Banner, Manchuria

Daughter of General Shu Jie, Yehe Nara Jinchun

from Plain Blue Banner, Manchuria

Daughter of Secretary Ma Er Han, Zhaojia Chen Xiang

Hurry along the way now

What are you crying for!

I'm talking about you!

Shut up!

Have you inspected all of them carefully?

Have you inspected all of them carefully?

Have you inspected all of them carefully?

If we let some unknown diseases into the Palace,

Don't you even think of staying alive anymore.

The Palace is different from the outside.

If you do well,

Doesn't it hurt?

It hurts.

Why did you not scream then?

I endured it.

What is your name?

Zhaojia Chen Xiang

If you are go through it, you are exalted.

The Palace is different from the outside.

If you do well,

Your Master will compliment you

and your path will be smooth and peaceful.

If you don't do well,

losing your life isn't uncommon.

Turn away!

This is the doorway to Heaven.

If you are to go through it, you are exalted.

Walk.

The bead that my mother gave me!

Who ran away?

Don't go!

Don't go!

Why are you not listening?

You little brat!

Forcing me to come find you.

Is this where you can come freely?

Go!

Thirteenth Lord! Thirteenth Lord!Where are you?

- Thirteenth Lord! Open the door. Thirteenth Lord!- Thirteenth Lord! Where are you?

You little brat!

Forcing me to come find you.

Is this where you can come freely?

Go!

Thirteenth Lord! Thirteenth Lord! Where are you?

Thirteenth Lord! Open the door. Thirteenth Lord! Thirteenth Lord! Where are you?

Subtitles brought to you by The Palace team at Viki

I've said all that I should have said.

If anyone is out of line,

you will be punished.

Subtitles brought to you by The Palace team at Viki.

I've said all that I should have said.

If anyone is out of line,

you will be punished.

Why does this newbie not know the rules around here?

Get out of the way!

My mother gave this to me.

SNATCH! (Take it from her.)

No! Don't!

Don't take away what my mother gave me!

Why does this newbie not know the rules around here?

She has good things but she doesn't share with everybody.

My mother gave this to me.

Take it from her!

No! Don't!

Don't take away what my mother gave me!

Does it hurt?

Huh! I haven't even hit you!

Tell me,

do I look better from this side,

or from this side?

Ghost! Ghost! Ghost!

Don't be afraid.

If they bully you again, come tell me!

My name is Liu Li.

I run errands in Qianxi Sisuo.

What about you?

My name is Chen Xiang.

I run errands in Qianxi Sisuo too.

Don't be afraid.

If they bully you again, come tell me!

My name is Liu Li.

I run errands in Qianxi Sisuo.

What about you?

My name is Chen Xiang.

I run errands in Qianxi Sisuo too.

This way! This way!

Eh?

What do you think?

- Is it pretty?- Yes.

- Isn't she cold, wearing so little?- Yes.

- Ahum!- We were just passing by.

Good. Very good. Eh? Are you two new?

What are your names?

Stupid Chun Shou!

What are you doing?

Come here, you! Running away?

Beautiful sister, forgive me!

I was wrong.

Don't pinch him anymore.

He'd begged you for forgiveness!

Don't interrupt the meeting of the Emperor and the future Niangniang!

Otherwise, she'll blame you.

Have you dragged away and...

Beheaded!

Future Niangniang?

Right.

Because you know, the internet is a snake and decided to stop working now of all times.

So she's dancing here, waiting for the Emperor.

If the Emperor likes her,

won't she become the future Niangniang?

What if the Emperor doesn't like her?

That I don't know.

[sigh] This all depends on the individual's good luck.

Today

I will teach everyone two words.

They are "下场" (xià​chang; End/consequence).

Every year, in the Palace, a few rules are broken.

This

is the consequence!

That's it!

Since it's not your problem,

go and do your work!

Quickly. Hurry up.

Food, you should not be filled till full.

Otherwise, you won't be able to serve well.

- Do you understand?- Yes.

Here.

Chen Xiang!

Chen Xiang! Come here quickly.- Coming. Coming.

Wait for me!

One, two, three!

Chen Xiang.

Liu Li, you!

Don't move.

Am I pretty?

What's with the makeup?

Be careful not to let Gu Gu see you!

Do you want to makeup like me?

Stay where you are!

Time flies.

In a flash, it's been 7 years since we entered the Palace.

Ladies-in-waiting, aged 25, are allowed to leave the Palace.

Five more years, and we can leave!

25 years old to leave the Palace, is still too old.

Don't snatch! Don't snatch!

News! News!

Me too! Me too!

This red one,

is the whereabouts of the Princes.

Price, three liang (money.)

This blue one is the Crown Prince's whereabouts,

Price, ten liang (money.)

This yellow one is powerful.

This is the Emperor's whereabouts.

Price, thirty liang (money.)

You've been looking at it for the whole day.

- Are you not done looking at it?- Not yet.

Tell me,

what will happen if the Prince sees me?

Hmm... he'll kiss you.

And then... hug you.

- Then kiss you again!- That's embarrassing!

- Chen Xiang.- Yes?

Have you ever been hugged and kissed by a man?

No, of course not.

Me neither.

- Tell me how does it feel?- I don't feel anything.

- Huh?- I don't feel anything.

How does it feel now?

You're making me blush!

Let me kiss you again, okay?

Let me kiss you again!

Chen Xiang,

do you know...

that men and women are actually different?

What's the difference?

Do you want know?

I'll show you!

Have you gone crazy thinking about men?

What are you arguing about? Go to sleep!

Watch out!

Don't ruin anything!

Aiyo, you!

What are you two doing?! Stirring up troubles?

These are crafts by famous masters.

If ruined, who'll be responsible?

- Be careful in your service! - Yes.

Chun Shou! Chun Shou!

Coming. Coming.

My stomach ached. I went to the washroom.

- You should help out!- Ouch. Ouch. Ouch.

- Chen Xiang!- Yes?

Hey, come quickly and look!

Chen Xiang!

What are you looking at, looking silly like this?

You don't even...

Who is that?

If he likes me, then that would be good.

I'm sure you want to ask me who that is in the picture.

He's none other than Thirteenth Prince, Yin Xiang.

The Emperor's oldest son.

The Emperor absolutely adores this son,

because he's not only good at instruments, chess, study, and painting

but almost everything else!

Furthermore, his archery and horseback riding are very good too.

It's said that a year ago, the Emperor took Thirteenth Prince hunting in Nanwan.

Suddenly!

What's wrong, Chen Xiang?

Chen Xiang? What's wrong?

- Why were you screaming?- Chen Xiang?

Look! She drooled!

Stop laughing.Stop laughing.

The Crown Prince has been making mistakes lately.

Even the high officials are in favour of Eighth and Ninth Princes.

As you know, this group of people is ambitious.

If the Crown Prince changes,

I'm afraid there will be an uproar.

What are you afraid of?

I, your little brother, am here.

We can all contribute,

and make it a life and death struggle.

Are you okay?

Greetings, Thirteenth Prince.

Just now, did you...

hear anything?

Hm?

I...

Fourth Brother, don't stare at her like that.

She is already very scared.

Let's go! Let's go!

Chen Xiang!

Liu Li!

Why are you here?

Aren't you on night duty over at the Study?

I came to tell you just that.

Chun Shou told me

Ninth Prince will pass through the garden today.

I don't want to miss this opportunity.

- That's why I want to ask you to replace me. - What?

That's not a good idea.

Why is it not good?

I'm...

I mean...

Palace officials are everywhere.

If someone finds out, we'll be beheaded.

Nah!

No one goes to the Study at night.

So, even if we were discovered,

I have this!

What would this do?

When time comes, cover your face with this,

just say that you've a cold,

you're not to be exposed to air.

I don't believe anyone would risk the danger of infection

to investigate the matter further.

Please?

We're good friends (like sisters).

Do you want to watch me patiently till age 25 to leave the Palace,

wanted by no man,

- then, grow old alone, right?- Alright... Alright. Alright... Alright.

I knew you would say yes!

There... don't worry.

After I successfully climb up the social ladder,

- I won't ever forgot you!- Okay.

Ninth... Ninth Prince!

Your servant deserves death!

Your servant deserves death! I didn't mean to!

Ninth Prince,

your clothes are wet.

Let your servant help you change so you won't catch a cold?

Ninth Prince, don't misunderstand!

Your servant was just...

Ninth Prince,

please let me live.

Your servant will go to the Imperial Household Department and ask to be planked.

Stop!

Who are you?

Thirteenth Prince!

Your servant greets Thirteenth Prince.

Why is your face covered with a veil?

Your servant has a cold,

I'm afraid I might infect others.

Come here.

Help me catch butterflies.

What are you doing?

Don't you think it's too dark here?

Besides...

it's so good to see the butterflies flying like this...

carefree and freely. (idiom)

If they are caged,

they might die before the night is over.

- Who told you that?- My mother.

Do you know what is this place?

This is where my mother,

Concubine Min Niangniang, lived before she passed away.

I was still very young when she was alive.

Whenever she passed by,

multitude of butterflies would surround her.

She was like an angel from heaven.

Ever since she passed away,

I dream about swarm of flying butterflies.

Today is her birthday.

She will come by for sure.

Son! I am not a witch!I am not a witch!

You came.

What a beautiful "寿" (birthday) word!

Heavens! How did you do that?

Ah, honey! Whoa.

That's great!

If my mother sees that a swarm of butterflies came,

she will definitely be very happy.

Thank you!

Thank you!

I...

What's your name?

Ah... there was a cage here before,

I'm telling you.

I lost an earring here.

I've seen you before when I was young.

Let me see your face.

Liu Li.

Liu Li!

Liu Li!

Liu Li!

Look at this sewing work.

It's a piece of art!

You can see how brilliant the maker was.

Elder Thirteenth,

you have good taste.

Concubine De Niangniang is teasing.

Actually, I have never seen the girl's face.

I don't even know which palace she works at.

Please forgive me that I beg Niangniang to find her.

Also, Niangniang, please do not be offended.

The two of you can have such fate,

it' must be predestined.

I heard,

last night...

you went there again.

Don't worry,

I will find that girl for you in the palace.

Thank you, Concubine De Niangniang.

Quickly.

Ninth Prince!

You promised me,

when you come back, you would take me.

Why haven't you kept your promise yet?

Do you know why?

I don't plan to.

Huh? What do you mean?

Ladies-in-waiting...

Princes...

don't match!

How could you do this to me?

Aren't you afraid that I'll report you?

Go ahead.

I dare you to report it.

When that time comes, I'll tell them

that you seduced the prince (me.)

Do you think they will believe me...

or you?

Huh?

Hands off.

Let go!

Don't know which Lady-in-waiting.

What a fortunate life.

She let Thirteenth Prince see her during the night.

Really?

See the goldfish and peonies embroidered on this handkerchief?

That could join them together.

Exactly!

Very strange.

Two sisters!

May I see the drawing in your hand?

Why is it you?

If it's not me, who do you expect it to be?

The moment I entered, you grabbed and sprung me around.

Sprung until I wanted to puke.

Seeing you make me want to puke!

Come. Come. Come. Come here. Sit down.

What are you doing?

Servant Chūn Shòu worships master Chen Xiang.

Arise.

Let me ask you.

Last night...

did you substitute for Liu Li for night duty?

Did you bump into Thirteenth Prince?

How did you know?

Aiyo! It's really you!

Let me tell you.

Your slave congratulates you!

Thirteenth Prince is looking all over the palace for you right now.

You are about to turn into a phoenix now.

This is providential blessing, you know?

That...

When you become a master,

don't forget I was your slave, okay?

Let's go.

Where to?

Change your outfit and dress up,

go and meet your husband.

Chen Xiang,

Chen Xiang, do you know?

Liu Li has caught the attention of Thirteenth Prince last night.

Concubine De has already ordered a marriage

as well as learning manners in Shu Fang Zhai.

Eventually,

she's confirmed to be serving Thirteenth Prince.

May I speak to you in private.

What are you doing?

I know you're very upset.

Blame me for taking what belongs to you.

But I didn't do it intentionally.

Concubine De Niangniang suddenly questioned me.

Asked me if I were on night duty last night.

How could I have said I was not?

If I said I was not,

that would have been a major crime.

It's alright with me,

but how could I get you involved.

If you can't forgive me,

I will die in front of you then.

Chen Xiang.

Don't worry.

Concubine De Niangniang had promised me

to allow be my personal Lady-in-waiting.

In future, we will still be together.

I will not ill-treat you.

Changing rooms!

Greetings to My Lady.

Looks good.

Arise.

How was it?

Looks good.

If I forget any rules later,

- You've to remind me.- Okay.

Greetings, Thirteenth Prince.

No need for ceremony.

So, this is what you look like.

Thirteenth Prince, Concubine De Niangniang is waiting for us.

Kowtow in greetings.

- Thank you, Niangniang.- Thank you, Niangniang.

In future, the palace will be like your home.

If you need anything, just let "this palace" (referring to herself) know.

"This palace" (I) will make the decision for you.

Thank you, Niangniang.

These are clothes that "this palace" (I) embroidered before marriage.

Before I could wear it, I already entered the palace.

"This palace" (I) think this will fit you.

Come.

- Put it on and let me see.- Yes.

Pack it away.

PACK... IT... AWAY!

Go down. Go down. (meaning leave.)

I heard that...

Miss Liuli was born into a family of servants.

It's normal if she's not used

to our "Flower Pot" shoes.

The rules in the palace,

you must learn well.

There are many rules in this palace.

Once she has learned them well,

her hair would have turned white.

If you want to be dignified in front of people,

you must suffer behind them first.

Does it hurt?

It doesn't, Gu Gu.

Stand properly.

Pay attention!

Wei! (Hi, there!)

Wait!

Stop! (Literally, Stand in place!)

I'm not talking to you.

The one next to you.

- Are you Liu Li's personal Lady-in-waiting?- Yes.

Come here for a moment.

What is this?

This is outside world.

Outside world?

- You come over here for a moment.- Okay.

I don't know what your family's master likes to eat.

I made these snacks myself.

You help me pick some.

My family's master is not picky.

She eats anything.

Thirteenth Prince, if there's nothing else,

your servant will step down.

Stop.

Turn around.

Come here.

Sit.

Try a bite.

Try a bite!

- Delicious?- Yes.

Delicious.

Aiya. Great!

Come. Try one more piece.

Smells good?

It's great.

There's also candied fruit, purple sweet potato and twisted fried dough.

Eat more so that you'll know which one is the most delicious.

Walk...

Concubine De is coming.

Smile...

Under your feet. Walk in a straight line.

Remain stable...remain stable!

Here.

Last one.

Can't eat anymore. Can't eat anymore.

The lady in my family will definitely like this.

She will probably like this.

I'll pour you some tea.

You treat our Liu Li very well.

Actually, I also do not know why.

But I feel...

she is not like other girls.

Whenever I think about that night,

I become very happy.

That night when she let the butterflies go,

she also captured my heart.

Actually, that night...

Thirteenth Prince, I have things to do, I'm stepping down.

If I were you...

I would tell him everything.

Liuli wanted to substitute for you just for wealth and rank.

What kind of a friend is she to you?

Don't say anymore.

Perhaps, it's not my fate.

Why did you bring me here?

Hey.

What's wrong with you?

I'm scared!

Okay. Okay.

Dismount. Dismount.

Good thing I let you try it.

If today was Liu Li riding the horse, she would be angry at me

I wouldn't know what to do.

Eh?

Are you alright?

Miss Táng Xiāng,

to tell you the truth,

I'm an unrefined man.

I grew up in the military camps.

Hence, I don't know what women like.

What's wrong?

Your servant, Chen Xiāng

What did I said?

Hmm... Táng Xiāng

Really?

Okay, Miss Chen Xiang.

I want you to teach me,

how I could gain Liu Li's favor.

Actually, all girls are alike.

They are reserved on the outside,

but in their hearts, they wish to be adored by someone,

loved by someone.

They all wish to be hugged tightly by someone.

Most importantly,

you must look deep into her eyes and

tell her,

"I... like you."

I like you!

Too unrefined.

Girls don't like it like that.

I like you.

What?

Too fake.

I like you.

I...

like you.

- How was it?- Huh?

Continue practicing.

Continue practicing.

I like you.

I like you.

Lately, Thirteenth Prince is really romantic.

There's one hidden in Shu Fang Zai.

He still has another one?

That's like us.

We are always thinking about the nation.

We are so busy till our heads are in chaos.

You say this...

This is good.

Good?

If Crown Prince, Elder Brother, and Elder Thirteenth are that anxious,

everything is watertight.

To find their breakthrough point,

it's possible only through this.

- Go now.- Going.

Who's there?

Didn't I say not to let anyone in?

I'm here to serve you.

Me?

A woman who has been abandoned by you

can't be allowed a way out?

Woman.

Here it comes!

Like it?

Just too bad...

I already belong to Thirteenth Prince.

But he is not the Emperor.

Wait till the day His Majesty passes away,

wouldn't he be the Emperor?

You, really!

Do you know what is this?

Give it to me.

Give it to me!

- Do you know?- What is this?

Soldier's seal.

Can mobilize the nation's military forces.

I know you have me in your heart.

But I didn't know you are that hot.

You talk nonsense!

A good bird even chooses a suitable tree.

Even if Thirteenth Prince treats you well,

wouldn't you be just a substitute?

I just saw him with another Lady-in-waiting.

What were they doing?

Like this.

Eyes curved.

Smiling sweetly.

Miss, why are you here?

Waiting for you!

You are very beautiful today.

Tell me, was it fun with Thirteenth Prince?

Huh?

Your servant...

You know you are a servant!

Why dare you try to seduce my Thirteenth Prince then?

You are very bold!

Thirteenth Prince just inquired your servant about your favorite things..

I was afraid of offending you.

Really?

Should I thank you then?

Now that this matter has turned out like this,

how else can we change it?

From today onwards,

don't meet with Thirteenth Prince again.

Otherwise...

Chun Shou!

All three of us grew up together.

You two have the best relationship.

He's always working for your benefit.

Then, in future,

if you commit any mistakes,

he will be punished.

Or else...

Greetings, Thirteenth Prince.

I was just looking for you.

Are you free today?

No.

- Tomorrow?- Tomorrow, I'm not free either.

Day after tomorrow, too.

Eh? Hey! Hey!

Walk...

Give ear.

Kneel down to show respect.

It took only a month

to train her to this level.

It's already not bad.

Niangniang.

How could this be good?

This year...

I drank the soup made by Liu Li.

I have got a lot better.

- Liu Li.- Yes.

This soup of yours,

how did you made it?

"This palace" (I) think it's very good.

I would like the Royal Physician to learn too.

Maybe it is...

a family secret?

Liu Li,

since Concubine De Niangniang has personally asked,

give her your secret recipe.

You see,

she seems very filial just now.

She is not even willing to give out her secret recipe.

What is there not to reveal it?

Precisely.

Niangniang, you misunderstood.

Our Lady is not that kind of person.

This is...

Niangniang, please pardon me.

I saw Gufang,

and hurt myself.

Why did you do such a silly thing?

This must be very painful.

It doesn't hurt.

It really doesn't hurt.

This is a good child.

I'm too indebted to you.

It must've been tough for you.

I'm really touched.

If you need anything,

I would like to thank you on behalf of Concubine De Niangniang.

This is just a small token from the younger generation.

You don't need to thank me.

Chen Xiang,

help me take good care of Miss.

Yes.

You didn't even injure your hand.

Huh?

It would be very painful. I am not that stupid.

It was only an act. Don't you know that?

If someone finds out what you did, what would be the aftermath?

As if they will kill me?

Hm?

It's not too late to injure it now.

What are you doing?

Let go of me.

Let go!

Miss.

Miss!

Thirt... (start of Thirteenth)

- That person is...- What person?

Is your vision blurred?

Didn't I say not to let anyone in?

Why did you still barge in?

I...

Thirteenth Prince was looking for you.

Your servant is taking her leave.

Wait, Chen Xiang.

No matter what,

we are still sisters in this place (friends.)

You must not tell Thirteenth Prince any nonsense.

Okay?

Write quickly.

I promised Concubine De Niangniang,

before the sun set,

tu finish the scripture for her.

This tea was granted to me by Concubine De.

I made it especially for you.

I really miss the past,

when we were really so carefree.

Do you remember when we smashed those watermelons?

It was so much fun!

Thirteenth Prince is here.

Gather sweet flowers while you may

and not the twig of flowers!

- Greetings, Thirteenth Prince.- No need for ceremony. Arise. Arise. Arise

Thirteenth Prince, shouldn't you be at the morning court at this time?

Why did you come here instead?

I should ask you instead.

Why did you write me this early in the morning?

Did you have something to tell me?

I want to advise you, don't think too much.

I am marrying you, is confirmed.

Okay. I'm going for my morning court.

I will come back and visit you later.

Do not pick the flowers when only twigs are left.

You wanted to tell Thirteenth Prince that

that my flower has already been taken...

so he should pick a flower like you?

Isn't that so?

You are only a junior palace maid.

You want to snatch him from me?

Do you have the right to do so?

I don't have the right,

but Thirteenth Prince is a good man.

Please be sincere to him.

Let me think about it.

How should I punish you?

Got it.

The stupid eunuch Chunshou

- is going to die soon... - It doesn't concern him.

Please spare his life.

Don't beg me.

Plead for yourself.

I want to ask the Thirteenth Prince to grant

Chunshou as a marriage partner to you.

However the marriage evening (consummation)

cannot go without the groom.

Think over carefully.

But don't blame me for not advising you.

If you have think hard enough,

I'm afraid that even if I would like to free him,

You will have to go to Hell to find him.

Hey! Who is it? Stop!

Stop.

Why are you here?

Your servant wants to make a request of Thirteenth Prince.

Speak.

I want to be married to Chun Shou.

You are not joking, right?

Good. I approve.

Girls like it like this.

Hot water is ready.

Go wash up.

Change into clean clothes.

We're marrying.

I won't bother you in future.

Please let me die.

What are you doing?

You still need to make me live well.

Is there any other choice?

If you die,

I've no reason to live on.

I'm sorry.

If it was not to protect me,

you could go now and tattle on Liu Li.

Then you could be with Thirteenth Prince.

It's not like this.

At the beginning Thirteenth Prince accepted Liu Li,

perhaps because he was moved by me.

But it's too late.

Liu Li is already rooted solidly in his heart.

Why should I bother?

I already don't have the energy to continue on.

Fate has brought us together.

This is our fate.

Chen Xiang, Chen Xiang.

Eighteenth Prince is gone.

The palace doesn't allow any happy events.

The Aunty in-charge told me to let you two know.

Your marriage with Chunshou must be pushed back.

Where did my brother go?

You only appear when he dies from sickness.

What kind of brotherhood is this?!

Crown Prince.

Tell me what you were doing at that time.

You didn't do anything at all.

Usually,

you showed brotherly affection.

You even dared to perform it before me.

Your Majesty.

I know that Eighteenth (younger) Brother liked this.

So I burned the midnight oil for this.

He still wasn't able to see it.

Your Majesty. Please give this to Eighteenth Brother.

Good.

You are still the one who cares.

Let's go.

Come with me to the Prince' Residence.

You give it to him yourself.

Who knows?

His Majesty is here.

He wouldn't let me out the whole day.

I was so bored.

Huh?

Huh?

Lau Jiu?

Teacher, thank you.

Who are you looking for?

Just now, that person, what did he want from you?

That customer was here to learn from me.

He said that his father wasn't in a good mood lately.

He wanted to learn some operatic arts

to make him happy.

I want to learn too.

To learn it well, what's most important is ..

to better than him.

Tell everyone.

Inside the palace, in addition to song and dance being banned,

and colorful clothing is disallowed.

Even red lanterns cannot be hung.

All the palaces...

are to copy the Buddhist mantras a hundred times...

as a prayer for 18th Prince.

I am the Monkey King.

Children. Follow me...

and cause chaos in Heaven!

Bastard!

Who is being so bold?

Did my words fall on deaf ears?

To reply Your Majesty,

it was me.

Child...

To do this performance,

I haven't slept for a few nights.

Father,

did you like it?

You...

You bastard!

His Majesty is here.

Father said...

that since he's able to be apathetic towards his brother's death

there is no guarantee he'll take care of the safety of his subjects,

therefore, he is adamant about deposing the Crown Prince.

This Crown Prince...

I told him so many times,

to restrain himself,

but he never listens.

I heard from the Advisor that it was Ninth Brother who caused him to do it.

Do you think His Majesty would believe him?

Originally, I thought that supporting such an idiotic Crown Prince...

would help to further our cause in Court

and create a hopeful future for our citizens.

From what I see today,

there is no hope at all.

Fourth (older) Brother,

Why don't you do it yourself?

I am born from a concubine.

No excuse for action. (Idiom - dispatching troops without a justifiable cause.)

To add further, His Majesty is not fully satisfied with us.

We can't just let 8th and 9th Brother snatch this from us.

-Just based on their...-13th Brother.

His Majesty's behaviour has been strange lately.

On your Mother's memorial day,

you went to Yanxi palace.

When His Majesty heard about that, he wasn't happy.

I heard that

he wants to have Yanxi palace sealed up.

Fourth (older) Brother,

have you heard of "pulling out the steps from the Master Room"?

Tomorrow, His Majesty will go to hunting in Nan Wan.

I will bring the soldiers to ambush him.

Even at the expense of risking my life.

Mother.

Your son is taking this action...

not because I want to be Crown Prince.

I'm sure you'll understand me.

Right?

You scared me.

Liu Li.

What if I'm not Thirteenth Prince,

what if I have nothing,

what would you do?

Thirteenth Prince,

I like the person inside,

not your identity.

Okay. I didn't judge you wrongly.

Did something happen to you?

Don't scare me.

Let's go.

The Crown Prince is in trouble.

Tomorrow, we need to bring the soldiers to ambush the Emperor.

Make him hear my remonstrance.

Huh?

- This...- I know this is very dangerous.

If we don't do this well, we will lose our lives.

That's why I must inform you.

Listen carefully.

If something happens to me tomorrow,

leave the palace by yourself.

Seek out Concubine De.

You did her a favor once.

She'll definitely help you.

If what you said is true,

Thirteenth Prince will be taking action against His Majesty soon.

I'm very sure that

they will take action tomorrow.

Great.

Who's there?

Chen Xiang.

Concubine De Niangniang is here.

Retreat.

Men.

Thirteenth Prince!

Today is calm and sunny.

It is a good day for hunting.

I'm very happy.

Both of you... skilled in horseback riding and archery.

You must do well today.

Don't disappoint me.

- Thirteen. - Yes?

You're preoccupied.

I'm alright.

Good.

Then, let's start.

Your Majesty, I'm here.

- Elder Nine.- Yes.

Surround them.

Thirteenth Prince and others come with me and attack from the front.

Yes.

Your Majesty!

Your Majesty.

I gave this bad idea,

only...

You!

Thirteenth Prince, Yin Xiang...

blocked His Majesty's sacred entourage...

with the intention to rebel.

He is to be imprisoned in Zong Ren Fu...

and tried thereafter.

End of edict!

Ninth Prince.

Now that the matter has come to this,

what should I do?

Well...

don't ever take me for a fool.

If I were to be implicated,

you can forget about getting away too.

What do you mean?

The news about Thirteenth Prince

As I passed them to you,

I also wrote one and put it in Concubine De's scriptures.

As you know

Concubine De is usually the most sincere.

Even if you didn't see her today,

you will tomorrow.

A woman who has been abandoned

has no choice but to be meticulous in her schemes.

Niangniang.

Greetings. What gift did you prepare for His Majesty?

His Majesty is the son of heaven.

He doesn't lack anything.

I want to give him one.

A different one.

I will show you.

Your Majesty!

Concubine Min is able to attract butterflies.

She must be a female demon.

If you don't get rid of this demon,the consequences will be dire!

Your Majesty, the south has been suffering the drought for a long time.

They all say it is the fault of demons.

Your Majesty, please handle this as soon as possible!

Your Majesty! The nation takes precedence!

Your Majesty.

The nation takes precedence!

Get rid of the demon.

Steady our empire!

Female demon!

I'm not a witch! I'm not a witch!

Your Majesty.

This is what we found in Concubine Min Niangniang's room.

It was actually a firework flare.

Please let 13th Prince off.

Thirteenth Prince.

He's ruined.

His eyes are blinded.

He has been locked up.

I want to see him.

You're not allowed to go.

What I don't want, you are not allowed to have either.

Don't pretend to be so pitiful.

Let me tell you.

All this happened because you forced me to.

You want to see Thirteenth Prince, right?

Fine.

I'll give you this chance.

Walk barefoot from here to over there.

You will have your wish

and you will be able to be with your beloved Thirteenth Prince.

I'll let you meet.

Thank you for your kind intentions.

This is for you to buy wine.

Make it fast.

Don't let anyone see.

-Otherwise I will be punished. -Thank you.

Please be gracious.

Go in. Call me if you need me.

Is it Liu Li?

I know you are not.

If Liuli liked me,

she would have been barefooted by now.

Butterflies have flown away.

They will return next year.

Do you know?

I never thought you would come to see me.

I never dreamed of it either.

This is great.

Did His Majesty give you a hard time?

Were you implicated?

No.

No.

That's good.

Your eyes...

My eyes are fine.

It's only temporary that I can't see.

I'm doing well now!

I can still beat someone to death!

No problem.

You must believe me.

My eyes will be cured soon.

Because I want you to come see me everyday.

I want to wait till my eyes are fine again,

so the first person I see will be you.

This is great.

I'll taste it.

How is it?

Haven't tasted it yet.

Still eating!

Did I make it for you?

Soup, soup, soup! Soup boils over! Soup boils over!

You!

Don't eat anymore!

Brother, I beg of you. Please let me in.

I told you many times already. Go away.

Yesterday was okay. Why can't I go in today?

Yesterday was okay. Today is not okay.

Brother, I'll come out quickly. I just want to send this in.

Don't get in my way!

Doctor. Doctor.

How is Thirteenth Prince?

Is he a little better?

You let me in, please.

Miss, go away, please.

There are no such rules in the palace.

I beg of you, Doctor. Please let me in.

No.

Doctor. Doctor.

The acupuncture patient couldn't bear the pain. He ran away.

Will I do?

You?

You.

- Are you ready? - Yes

Alright.

Follow me.

His Majesty's...

body is extremely precious.

Any medication or acupuncture that is applied to him

has to be tested on others countless times first.

Only when it's been ascertained that there's no danger...

can action be taken.

Aren't you going to shut it?

It's not too late for regrets.

As long as you can take me to the guard room...

Yes.

Good.

I will grant your wish then.

Get into the water.

Chen Xiang.

Don't jump.

Chen Xiang.

Why are you doing this?

I know you are upset with me.

I don't know what's wrong with me too.

I did so many despicable things.

Chen Xiang.

I beg of you.

Forgive me.

Can we still go back to the past?

We are still good sister friends, right?

Okay?

Good.

The drug is taking effect.

Over here.

You came.

I waited for you for a long time.

What do you mean by this?

This white hat,

to others,

it may not be worth anything.

But to the Emperor,

it's a precious thing.

Add a 'bai/白' to the 'wang/王' character.

Adding a 'bai' to the 'wang' makes 'Emperor/huang'.

What's wrong with you?

I'm waiting for you.

Why are you only here now?

I had something on.

Leave then.

LEAVE!

Do you have any idea how many days it's been since you came?

I thought you died!

I'll come another day.

I'll come another day to see you.

Liu Li.

I really need you now.

Don't abandon me.

Please don't leave me.

I have nothing now.

I don't even have you anymore.

All gone.

Leave now.

You will not lose me.

Your complexion looks good.

Your eyes have not recovered?

Doctor comes everyday to do acupuncture.

I believe it'll be cured in no time.

That's good.

His Majesty's health is not good lately.

All the clans are waiting to move.

I've decided to do as you said...

and cast my lot too.

Fourth Brother, you are an all-rounded talent.

It should have been this way earlier.

I'm just a little worried about you.

Fourth Brother, I'm very well.You don't have to worry at all.

Liu Li comes everyday to see me now.

The one from Shufangzhai?

There's something I'm not sure if I should say.

I made some steam cakes.

I don't know if it'll be to your liking.

What do you want to find out from me?

What did you just say?

I don't quite understand.

Fourth Brother said...

that you are together with Ninth Brother.

I didn't believe it at first.

I've always been very puzzled...

You're already under my household.

I'm under house arrest.

And yet you are fine?

You can even come and go freely.

So it turns out that you've been with Ninth Brother from the start.

So, every time you come to see me...

is only to spy on me. Am I right?

It's not like that.

Then, what is it?

Did you think that your scheme would succeed?

Did you think that all the men of the Aisin Gioro family could be manipulated by you?

Let me tell you, I have never liked you.

You're just a plaything in my heart.

Just like...

a prostitute.

Are you angry?

Ashamed to the point of anger?

Fine.

On the account that I've shagged you before,

I won't hold it against you.

Leave.

Leave right now!

Are you saying that for real?

YES!

Whether I'm Liu Li or not,

you've never ever liked me?

No.

I understand.

- Doctor, be careful.- No problem. No problem.

Ninth Prince.

The Emperor.

The Emperor, he...

Lock the door.

Ninth (younger) Brother.

It's already so late. Why did you bring the soldiers here?

What are you trying to do?

Father has gone to heaven.

I rushed here to mourn.

His Majesty is merely in a deep sleep.

If you put it this way.

This is exactly how I put it.

Who says?

Hand over the sacred edict immediately!

Otherwise,

don't blame me for not being polite.

Men.

Kill him.

Are you really going to fight with me?

Don't tell me that you don't care about the lives of your families?

Kill!

Kill!

Kill.

Elder Nine, Elder Nine!

To think that you have bribed...

all the eight great generals in the capital.

It's a pity that you were careless in one aspect...

and forgot to protect their families.

I've already ordered people to bury explosives under their residences.

If anything happens to me at all,

they...

will be the collateral payment.

Why are you still standing here like a fool?

Do you believe his nonsense?

Status and wealth...

glory and splendor...

Why?

It's all for the sake of the families' peace and happiness.

If one has everything,

but loses his loved ones,

then, being alive...

is there still any meaning for it?

He's lying.

Do you believe him?

In this Forbidden City...

all men are under my command.

Kill him!

The world is ours now.

Listen carefully.

The world already belongs to Ninth Prince.

Do you want to live?

Kill!

Kill!

Kill!

Kill!

Kill!

Bastard!

Haven't you guys fought enough yet?

I'm not dead yet.

What are you doing?

You listen carefully.

Fourth Prince Yin Zhen...

is capable and upright.

He can be depended upon.

Ninth Prince Yin Tang...

charged into the palace on his own accord,and staged a rebellion.

He's to be imprisoned at Zong Ren Fu.

And tried thereafter.

As for all of you...

Your Majesty.

Your Majesty. He...

His Majesty has passed away.

There's someone behind the Emperor!

Elder Fourth.

Before Father passed away,

he didn't specify how you were to be punished.

According to the Law of the Qing kingdom,

trespassing on palace grounds...

is punishable by death to the ninth generation.

But I

have just ascended the throne.

I am granting a pardon to everyone!

This matter can be erased.

Pledge your loyalty to me, and everything will be as before.

I can even bestow upon you the golden plaque that will pardon you from death.

If you continue to follow Ninth Prince,

not only will you not be able to protect your families,

but based on his personality,

do you think he'll be able to let you off...

knowing that you're witnesses to his coup d'etat?

I'll kill you!

Let go of me!

Let go!

Long live. Long Live.Long live the Emperor.

Let me go!

Let go!

Let go!

Fourth Prince.

Fourth Prince, you liar!

What kind of an Emperor are you?!

Make an annoucement

that His Majesty has passed away.

His Majesty is here.

Kneel.

Bow.

Long live. Long Live.Long live the Emperor.

Long live the Emperor.

Long live. Long Live.Long live the Emperor.

Long live. Long Live.Long live the Emperor.

Long live. Long Live.Long live the Emperor.

Fourth (older) Brother.

The Imperial Physician has done a great merit. Reward him handsomely!

Thank you, Your Majesty.

I heard,

Thirteenth Prince's eyes are cured.

The Emperor has also released him.

What does that have to do with me?

I... I'm saying,

You should quickly seek out Thirteenth Prince,

and say to him

that all those days

you're the one taking care of him, not Liu Li.

Then...

then the two of you could...

I have no wish to.

What?

Okay. Gu Gu still has work to be done. I leave first.

Are you stupid?

Chen Xiang!

You're like grass on the wall.

With both sides down,

you hold on to Ninth Prince with one hand,

and Thirteenth Prince with the other.

If today, Ninth Prince fell,

you would come as an informant.

You want to hold on to Thirteenth Prince, right?

No, Your Majesty.

You misunderstood.

I know Ninth Prince very well.

He's ambitious.

That's why I got close to him.

Is it true?

Yes, it's true, Your Majesty.

Stop.

Stop!

Quickly chase.

Arrest her!

Thirteenth Prince.

This woman attempted to escape the palace.

The Emperor said she belonged to you.

So he's leaving you to handle it.

Go out first.

Liu Li.

I don't blame you for going with Ninth (older) Brother.

But you never should have

gone to Zong Ren Fu to toy with my feelings.

Thirteenth Prince,

you've mistaken.

I have never gone to Zong Ren Fu.

Why are you still lying to me at such a time?

I swear.

It's the truth that I have never been there.

Also,

the one who attracted the butterflies for you at Yan Xi Palace...

wasn't me either.

Tell me,

who she is then?

- I do not know.- Speak!

Prepare a horse for me!

And some money! When I'm out of the palace gates, I'll tell you!

Do you want to kill me?

Go ahead.

Don't think of finding out who she is if you kill me.

Prepare a horse!

Can you tell me now?

I'm in within the palace walls.

This place is still not safe enough.

What do you want before you are willing to tell me?

Kiss me once, okay?

You've never even kissed me before.

Kiss me once.

Kiss me!

Let me tell you, I don't have that much tolerance.

Quickly, say who she is! Speak!

Don't be angry, Thirteenth Prince.

If you are angry and kill me,

then, there will be no one to tell you.

And you'll never find her!

You will never know,

who she is.

Liu Li treated you like that.

She deserved to die.

Why are you breaking the palace rules to burn paper for her?

She is no longer here.

Everything is gone like the wind.

She was my sister.

In the palace,

she was the first person to show me warmth.

Chen Xiang.

Chen Xiang!

I'm sorry.

If you're willing to forgive me,

meet me at the Royal Garden.

Thirteenth Prince is quite an emotional person!

But he said he did not love me.

Then, what is this?

Someone who could do so much for you,

proves that he loves you.

Why would he blow his top at you? He could have just ignored you.

Why did he put so much?

Chen Xiang.

There is a person you love, who loves you in return.

You are very lucky.

Why is there only one?

This one...

is both our destiny.

Who told you to peek?

Open the door.

How do I look?

Chen Xiang.

Chen Xiang!

Miss Chen Xiang

His Majesty wants to see you.

Greetings, Your Majesty.

Intelligent and sharp.

A good woman indeed.

Thank you, Your Majesty, for your praise.

I know everything that you did for Thirteenth Prince.

I'm very touched.

He is very touched too.

But today, I summoned you over...

This brother of mine

has been through a lot of difficulties since young.

I deeply feel that I've let him down in many ways.

So right after my coronation,

I hope to give him the best.

But he fell in love with you.

I still have plenty of important things for him to do.

If there's anything in his heart holding him back,

it will be impossible to prevent negligence.

But when a person's happiness is compared to important matters of the nation,

Thirteenth Prince is no ordinary man.

He is my right hand man.

He should marry a Chancellor's daughter and help us improve the state's relationship.

Instead, he'd rather have affection for you and have us lose the trust of the Korea.

He still doesn't know your identity.

I have instructed...

that no one is to mention it.

Everything about you both,

should be regarded as just a beautiful memory.

As for now...

he is waiting for you in the garden,

and you are to stay here the whole night.

When the sun rises,

you can go back.

I understand.

Arise.

His Majesty is here.

Believe me,

I will never be able to pay you back in this lifetime.

I believe you.

If only there is a shooting star outside the window.

Perhaps, I could make a wish

to be with your forever.

I have been making that wish every day.

I hope that heaven can see my sincerity.

Fool.

Because of you,

I'm willing to be a fool.

By divine authority,

His Majesty has ordered...

that the palace courtier, Chen Xiang...

She is to be specially given 100 taels of gold...

as a token of His Majesty's gratitude.

End of edict.

Long live. Long live.Long live the Emperor.

Chen Xiang?

His Majesty passed an edict to reward a courtier.

This is the first time this has happened.

- Congratulations. Thank you, Master.

Thanks?

What did you bring to thank me?

I will give all these taels to you, Gong Gong...

as repayments for the many years of kindness you have shown me.

No need.

Keep this and take care of yourself.

May we see each other again.

Chen Xiang. Congratulations.

Take some for yourselves too.

You dare to take that?

Not getting to work?

Standing around gossiping.

Take this home.

Find a good man to marry.

Take some.

I don't want it.

Are you really going to leave?

They're not human!

The Emperor is also not human!

If not for the fact that he stopped you, you would be the Thirteenth Prince's wife now!

What are you saying? Aren't you afraid of getting beheaded?

Aren't I doing this for your good?

Will you do me one more favor?

What favor? Speak.

Help me make the arrangements.

I would like to take a look at the solitary cell again.

Miss Táng Xiāng,

to tell you the truth,

I grew up in the military camps.

Hence, I don't know what women like.

What's wrong?

Your servant, Chen Xiāng.

What did I say?

Hmm... Táng Xiāng

Really?

You will never get what you want.

Whatever you don't want,

you'll keep pining for.

Humans have always been like this.

Let's take our own path

and suffer separately.

I have been waiting.

Why?

Because I made a mistake once.

I don't want to make a second mistake again.

Are you sure this is what you want?

I have been asking this myself.

I'd rather spend my whole life in Zong Ren Fu.

Even if I'm blind for the rest of my life,

at least, I will still have you

by my side.

Let me look at you.

You are Liu Li's personal maid?

I met you before when I was young.

It's good to have met you.

I will always be with you.

You must wait till my eyes have recovered.

The first person I want to see is you.

So, it's you.

Chen Xiang.

I know what you're worrying about.

In this palace,

if anyone still dares to separate us,

at most, we'll just go far away from here.

You don't believe me?

Do you still remember this place?

This is the place where we first met.

I brought you here today,

because I have a gift for you.