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♪As flowers bloom and wither♪
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00:00:24,590 --> 00:00:29,770
♪May we pass by the magnificent scenery♪
3
00:00:31,180 --> 00:00:35,340
♪Contemplate the vastness
of Heaven and Earth♪
4
00:00:35,340 --> 00:00:40,590
♪Could it be that both of us
are filled with desolation?♪
5
00:00:41,990 --> 00:00:45,830
♪As flowers bloom and wither♪
6
00:00:45,830 --> 00:00:51,080
♪May we lead such a life♪
7
00:00:52,550 --> 00:00:56,720
♪Contemplate the vastness
of Heaven and Earth♪
8
00:00:56,720 --> 00:01:01,580
♪Turning back, you and I♪
9
00:01:05,940 --> 00:01:07,470
♪Seize the current moment♪
10
00:01:07,470 --> 00:01:11,120
♪The sky is painted
with a gentle pallet of pastel colors♪
11
00:01:11,120 --> 00:01:15,600
♪Let's walk together♪
12
00:01:16,560 --> 00:01:18,170
♪Even if♪
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00:01:18,170 --> 00:01:21,500
♪The snow in front of us♪
14
00:01:21,880 --> 00:01:23,370
♪Will dye our hair white♪
15
00:01:23,370 --> 00:01:27,410
♪In an instant♪
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[Joy of Life Season 2]
17
00:01:28,110 --> 00:01:30,980
[Adapted from Mao Ni's Joy of Life
on Yuewen Group's Qidian platform]
18
00:01:30,980 --> 00:01:33,980
[Episode 17]
19
00:01:34,599 --> 00:01:36,640
I didn't set the fire in Shijia Town.
20
00:01:37,000 --> 00:01:38,560
Still, he is the survivor.
21
00:01:39,359 --> 00:01:40,079
Fan Xian is still investigating
22
00:01:40,079 --> 00:01:41,560
your past deal with Northern Qi.
23
00:01:41,920 --> 00:01:43,159
All the more reason not to kill him.
24
00:01:43,719 --> 00:01:45,879
The Imperial Inspectorate surely knows
about this by now as you do.
25
00:01:47,319 --> 00:01:48,319
Let him investigate.
26
00:01:49,760 --> 00:01:51,799
I'm also curious about
27
00:01:53,359 --> 00:01:54,640
who set that fire.
28
00:01:57,680 --> 00:01:58,239
Where is that person?
29
00:01:58,879 --> 00:01:59,560
Tongfu Inn.
30
00:02:00,079 --> 00:02:00,640
The First Division
31
00:02:00,920 --> 00:02:02,359
secretly surrounded the place
32
00:02:02,560 --> 00:02:04,280
to prevent any sinister move.
33
00:02:04,560 --> 00:02:06,079
Deng Ziyue is thoughtful.
34
00:02:07,840 --> 00:02:08,240
Hold on.
35
00:02:09,199 --> 00:02:10,000
What's the name of the inn again?
36
00:02:10,199 --> 00:02:11,280
Tongfu Inn.
37
00:02:13,039 --> 00:02:14,280
What's the surname of the innkeeper?
38
00:02:15,520 --> 00:02:17,080
If it's Tongfu Inn,
39
00:02:17,719 --> 00:02:18,479
it should be Tong.
40
00:02:20,199 --> 00:02:21,520
Is it a man or a woman?
41
00:02:22,680 --> 00:02:23,639
Maybe a man.
42
00:02:24,400 --> 00:02:25,800
Mr. Fan, if you want a woman,
43
00:02:25,840 --> 00:02:27,159
I will get one for you.
44
00:02:27,599 --> 00:02:28,039
Scratch that.
45
00:02:28,479 --> 00:02:29,360
I didn't ask for anything.
46
00:02:32,840 --> 00:02:33,280
You,
47
00:02:34,199 --> 00:02:34,680
leave now.
48
00:02:35,319 --> 00:02:35,759
Godfather.
49
00:02:35,879 --> 00:02:36,520
Shut up.
50
00:02:36,879 --> 00:02:38,319
Scholars must have a backbone.
51
00:02:38,719 --> 00:02:39,240
Godfather, I...
52
00:02:39,240 --> 00:02:40,759
Don't be a shameless social climber.
53
00:02:40,960 --> 00:02:41,639
He Zongwei,
54
00:02:42,159 --> 00:02:43,520
I'm kind enough
55
00:02:43,960 --> 00:02:45,199
not to chuck you out.
56
00:02:46,039 --> 00:02:47,680
Educated men can't bend their knees,
57
00:02:48,120 --> 00:02:49,080
nor should they.
58
00:02:50,439 --> 00:02:51,680
I truly admire you, Godfather...
59
00:02:51,680 --> 00:02:52,199
Get lost!
60
00:02:57,479 --> 00:02:57,960
Godfather,
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00:02:58,479 --> 00:02:59,439
I shall take my leave.
62
00:03:13,000 --> 00:03:14,199
He came here to offer
his service to you.
63
00:03:14,759 --> 00:03:15,840
I still have some pride.
64
00:03:16,039 --> 00:03:17,360
I won't take in someone like him.
65
00:03:18,360 --> 00:03:19,719
Hopefully, educated men
66
00:03:20,599 --> 00:03:21,759
won't demean themselves like he does.
67
00:03:22,599 --> 00:03:25,599
He is one in a million.
68
00:03:26,439 --> 00:03:29,000
Youngsters are mostly with pride.
69
00:03:29,599 --> 00:03:30,280
I hope so.
70
00:03:31,719 --> 00:03:32,159
Wang,
71
00:03:32,560 --> 00:03:34,280
let's go to the Tongfu Inn later.
72
00:03:36,479 --> 00:03:38,039
We are meeting the only survivor.
73
00:03:39,599 --> 00:03:41,800
Whether or not the aggrieved souls
of the Shijia Town
74
00:03:42,159 --> 00:03:43,360
can rest in peace
75
00:03:45,560 --> 00:03:46,360
depends on him.
76
00:03:56,439 --> 00:03:58,199
Educated men can't bend their knees,
77
00:03:58,680 --> 00:03:59,800
nor should they.
78
00:04:02,439 --> 00:04:03,599
What a fighting talk.
79
00:04:04,639 --> 00:04:05,520
But standing upright isn't easy.
80
00:04:09,039 --> 00:04:10,120
Yogurt for sale!
81
00:04:10,759 --> 00:04:12,599
Delicious yogurt!
82
00:04:13,240 --> 00:04:14,240
Please stop here.
83
00:04:14,240 --> 00:04:14,879
Until next time.
84
00:04:15,039 --> 00:04:15,639
Until next time.
85
00:04:15,800 --> 00:04:16,360
Safe trip.
86
00:04:24,920 --> 00:04:26,040
You are here, Mr. Fan.
87
00:04:26,839 --> 00:04:27,600
May I have a word?
88
00:04:34,240 --> 00:04:34,720
Mr. Fan.
89
00:04:35,439 --> 00:04:36,319
Does Shi Chanli stay here?
90
00:04:36,800 --> 00:04:38,600
Yes, in a quad room.
91
00:04:39,199 --> 00:04:40,639
The other three tenants
are also candidates.
92
00:04:40,879 --> 00:04:41,519
Here are their names.
93
00:04:45,720 --> 00:04:48,800
[Roommates]
Yang Wanli, Cheng Jialin, Hou Jichang.
94
00:04:49,360 --> 00:04:50,519
We are investigating
their family backgrounds.
95
00:04:50,600 --> 00:04:51,879
The results will be out soon.
96
00:04:52,439 --> 00:04:53,040
Besides, sir,
97
00:04:53,639 --> 00:04:55,279
this is a detailed record
98
00:04:55,319 --> 00:04:56,639
of Shi Chanli's activity
since he checked into the inn.
99
00:04:56,879 --> 00:04:57,519
Please review it.
100
00:04:58,360 --> 00:04:59,120
You even investigated this.
101
00:05:00,240 --> 00:05:01,360
It's always good to be well-prepared.
102
00:05:01,879 --> 00:05:03,000
In case you need it.
103
00:05:03,625 --> 00:05:05,240
[Shi Chanli]
104
00:05:05,240 --> 00:05:05,959
He even drank?
105
00:05:06,439 --> 00:05:08,399
He had a joyful conversation
with the other three
106
00:05:08,399 --> 00:05:09,319
and had a few drinks.
107
00:05:09,399 --> 00:05:10,439
He is not a good drinker.
108
00:05:11,839 --> 00:05:12,759
He is not in the inn now?
109
00:05:13,199 --> 00:05:13,680
Yes.
110
00:05:14,439 --> 00:05:15,920
He is in the exam hall.
111
00:05:17,279 --> 00:05:18,360
There are still a few days
until the exam.
112
00:05:18,560 --> 00:05:19,600
What is he doing there?
113
00:05:20,079 --> 00:05:21,720
He is building walls.
114
00:05:24,680 --> 00:05:25,319
Building walls?
115
00:05:26,199 --> 00:05:26,959
Be careful.
116
00:05:28,839 --> 00:05:29,759
Gently.
117
00:05:29,959 --> 00:05:30,439
Slowly.
118
00:05:30,439 --> 00:05:31,000
All right.
119
00:05:36,279 --> 00:05:36,879
Mr. Fan, please look.
120
00:05:36,959 --> 00:05:38,759
They are the candidates
for the coming spring exam.
121
00:05:40,360 --> 00:05:41,040
What are they doing?
122
00:05:42,000 --> 00:05:43,319
They are helping the Ministry of Rites
to renovate the exam hall.
123
00:05:43,680 --> 00:05:44,759
Renovate the exam hall?
124
00:05:45,759 --> 00:05:46,839
Isn't this the builders' work?
125
00:05:47,120 --> 00:05:47,920
Why are these candidates doing that?
126
00:05:48,360 --> 00:05:48,959
Yes.
127
00:05:50,279 --> 00:05:52,399
The Minister of Rites,
Mr. Guo Zheng, suggested this.
128
00:05:53,000 --> 00:05:54,639
He said there are many candidates
129
00:05:55,319 --> 00:05:56,160
who come
from different family backgrounds.
130
00:05:56,759 --> 00:05:58,000
Plus, the cost of living
in the Capital is high,
131
00:05:58,240 --> 00:06:00,000
which might be a burden
for students of humble roots.
132
00:06:01,000 --> 00:06:03,399
So it's better to pay the money
to these students
133
00:06:03,680 --> 00:06:04,560
than the builders.
134
00:06:05,480 --> 00:06:06,240
Exactly.
135
00:06:06,639 --> 00:06:07,279
It's voluntary.
136
00:06:07,439 --> 00:06:10,519
They can feel the grandness
of the exam hall in advance
137
00:06:10,759 --> 00:06:13,160
and earn some money
to make a living.
138
00:06:14,319 --> 00:06:15,439
By the look of it,
139
00:06:15,600 --> 00:06:16,560
this minister
140
00:06:17,160 --> 00:06:18,519
does take pity on the people.
141
00:06:24,560 --> 00:06:26,160
Mr. Fan, that's Mr. Guo.
142
00:06:27,959 --> 00:06:28,800
Mr. Guo would rather
143
00:06:29,279 --> 00:06:30,480
get his hands dirty.
144
00:06:33,560 --> 00:06:35,639
But why isn't he moving?
145
00:06:36,040 --> 00:06:36,800
Get stuck there?
146
00:06:59,279 --> 00:07:00,480
Here's a painter.
147
00:07:14,199 --> 00:07:15,519
Indeed.
148
00:07:17,480 --> 00:07:19,480
The renovation of the exam hall
is considered quite a contribution.
149
00:07:19,480 --> 00:07:20,879
Naturally, he would want
to record this moment.
150
00:07:21,040 --> 00:07:23,439
Some of the officials
have this preference.
151
00:07:24,839 --> 00:07:25,600
Interesting.
152
00:07:27,759 --> 00:07:29,839
Why don't we get a portrait
after we go back to the First Division?
153
00:07:33,319 --> 00:07:33,920
Where is Shi Chanli?
154
00:07:37,120 --> 00:07:38,600
Mr. Fan, he is over there.
155
00:07:45,680 --> 00:07:46,759
Is he striking a pose too?
156
00:07:49,959 --> 00:07:51,319
But there isn't any painter around.
157
00:07:52,439 --> 00:07:53,399
The guards are not strict, though.
158
00:07:54,839 --> 00:07:56,600
The guards are protecting the minister.
159
00:07:56,639 --> 00:07:57,800
No one cares about these candidates.
160
00:07:58,199 --> 00:07:59,240
We need two more people here.
161
00:08:05,639 --> 00:08:06,519
He Zongwei.
162
00:08:14,079 --> 00:08:16,000
Do you want to become an official?
163
00:08:21,240 --> 00:08:23,240
Will you take the risk
164
00:08:23,680 --> 00:08:26,759
for a chance to succeed?
165
00:08:31,680 --> 00:08:32,720
May I know who you are?
166
00:08:35,279 --> 00:08:36,360
Be careful, everyone.
167
00:08:38,200 --> 00:08:38,679
Shi.
168
00:08:41,480 --> 00:08:42,279
Who are you?
169
00:08:43,279 --> 00:08:44,159
Shi, you forgot me.
170
00:08:44,600 --> 00:08:45,360
We met before.
171
00:08:46,600 --> 00:08:47,279
Did we?
172
00:08:47,720 --> 00:08:49,159
Shi, are you staying in the Tongfu Inn?
173
00:08:49,519 --> 00:08:50,080
Yes.
174
00:08:50,120 --> 00:08:50,840
In a quad room?
175
00:08:51,039 --> 00:08:51,480
That's right.
176
00:08:52,240 --> 00:08:53,559
You come from Shijia Town on the border.
177
00:08:53,840 --> 00:08:54,639
How did you know everything?
178
00:08:54,879 --> 00:08:55,879
You told me.
179
00:08:56,240 --> 00:08:57,120
Did I?
180
00:08:57,799 --> 00:08:59,320
We chatted a little over some drinks
that night.
181
00:09:01,440 --> 00:09:02,279
Were you there?
182
00:09:04,200 --> 00:09:05,120
We were in the loo.
183
00:09:06,639 --> 00:09:07,559
I was drunk that night.
184
00:09:07,879 --> 00:09:08,480
I couldn't remember.
185
00:09:09,120 --> 00:09:10,639
Shi, are you short of money?
186
00:09:11,080 --> 00:09:12,080
Well, kind of.
187
00:09:12,360 --> 00:09:13,399
Takes one to know one.
188
00:09:16,879 --> 00:09:17,440
I'm Hou Jichang.
189
00:09:17,480 --> 00:09:19,600
[Hou Jichang, candidate in the spring exam]
Let me find your name.
190
00:09:19,720 --> 00:09:20,200
Hey, Shi.
191
00:09:21,679 --> 00:09:23,399
Is he your friend?
192
00:09:24,039 --> 00:09:25,120
I also stay in Tongfu Inn.
193
00:09:25,240 --> 00:09:26,039
We met before.
194
00:09:26,879 --> 00:09:27,879
Shi, why don't you introduce us
to one another?
195
00:09:30,360 --> 00:09:31,639
This is my roommate, Hou.
196
00:09:32,440 --> 00:09:33,039
Hou Jichang.
197
00:09:34,200 --> 00:09:35,480
Hi, Hou. My surname is Fan.
198
00:09:36,679 --> 00:09:37,120
Fan?
199
00:09:38,120 --> 00:09:38,679
Hi, Fan.
200
00:09:39,159 --> 00:09:40,480
We are fated
since we stay in the same inn.
201
00:09:41,440 --> 00:09:43,360
Did I interrupt you?
202
00:09:43,600 --> 00:09:44,200
Not at all.
203
00:09:44,840 --> 00:09:45,840
Just now,
204
00:09:45,919 --> 00:09:49,080
I saw you holding a brick
205
00:09:49,080 --> 00:09:49,759
and zoning out.
206
00:09:49,879 --> 00:09:50,519
What's wrong?
207
00:09:51,639 --> 00:09:52,360
I saw that too.
208
00:09:53,759 --> 00:09:54,240
Shi,
209
00:09:54,600 --> 00:09:56,120
[Shi Chanli]
did you forget what I told you?
210
00:09:56,600 --> 00:09:57,919
I saw you sitting there
211
00:09:57,919 --> 00:09:59,120
and staring at the two bricks
from a distance.
212
00:10:00,200 --> 00:10:01,559
Mr. Guo is monitoring the site.
213
00:10:01,919 --> 00:10:02,679
Even if you are tired,
214
00:10:03,000 --> 00:10:04,919
you have to pretend to be hardworking.
215
00:10:06,480 --> 00:10:07,320
I'm not tired.
216
00:10:07,679 --> 00:10:09,440
I just found these bricks strange.
217
00:10:12,720 --> 00:10:13,759
What's strange about the bricks?
218
00:10:16,000 --> 00:10:16,600
Let me show you.
219
00:10:20,200 --> 00:10:20,639
This
220
00:10:21,600 --> 00:10:23,039
is the old brick,
221
00:10:23,879 --> 00:10:24,519
and this
222
00:10:25,200 --> 00:10:26,440
is the new replacement brick.
223
00:10:27,279 --> 00:10:27,759
So?
224
00:10:28,799 --> 00:10:29,399
The new brick.
225
00:10:31,360 --> 00:10:31,919
The old brick.
226
00:10:33,639 --> 00:10:34,279
Can you tell from the sounds?
227
00:10:37,120 --> 00:10:39,039
The old brick sounds like an iron.
228
00:10:39,279 --> 00:10:39,840
Iron?
229
00:10:40,440 --> 00:10:42,200
This is the best kiln brick.
230
00:10:42,600 --> 00:10:44,480
Kiln bricks are extremely expensive.
231
00:10:44,919 --> 00:10:46,159
However, the replacement bricks
232
00:10:46,639 --> 00:10:48,039
are very ordinary bricks.
233
00:10:49,000 --> 00:10:49,720
Look at this too.
234
00:10:50,440 --> 00:10:51,480
The pillars taken down
235
00:10:52,519 --> 00:10:54,200
are Phoebe Zhennan.
236
00:10:55,720 --> 00:10:57,080
Look at the replacement pillars.
237
00:10:58,519 --> 00:10:59,120
Do you know what these are?
238
00:10:59,679 --> 00:11:01,120
They are just logs.
239
00:11:01,440 --> 00:11:02,200
They are ordinary.
240
00:11:02,320 --> 00:11:03,120
Too ordinary.
241
00:11:04,207 --> 00:11:05,327
That's why I'm confused.
242
00:11:05,519 --> 00:11:07,120
Why are they using
243
00:11:07,519 --> 00:11:08,519
a more inferior material
244
00:11:09,159 --> 00:11:10,039
for the renovation of the exam hall?
245
00:11:10,320 --> 00:11:11,559
Shi, how do you know about these things?
246
00:11:12,440 --> 00:11:13,600
I run a business back in my hometown,
247
00:11:13,759 --> 00:11:14,879
so I have some knowledge of this.
248
00:11:14,879 --> 00:11:15,639
I'm sure about this.
249
00:11:15,919 --> 00:11:16,360
Shi.
250
00:11:17,240 --> 00:11:19,039
Don't mention this ever again.
251
00:11:19,559 --> 00:11:20,080
Why not?
252
00:11:22,001 --> 00:11:25,281
Mr. Guo supervises
the renovation personally.
253
00:11:31,120 --> 00:11:32,519
All the more reason to inform Mr. Guo,
254
00:11:32,519 --> 00:11:33,679
so that he won't be shortchanged.
255
00:11:34,000 --> 00:11:35,759
This is none of our business.
256
00:11:36,480 --> 00:11:37,080
We had better
257
00:11:37,759 --> 00:11:38,480
ignore this.
258
00:11:38,840 --> 00:11:39,320
But...
259
00:11:39,519 --> 00:11:40,279
Trust me.
260
00:11:43,519 --> 00:11:44,519
Why ignore?
261
00:11:45,000 --> 00:11:47,240
Substituting with poor materials
is a corrupt behavior.
262
00:11:47,440 --> 00:11:49,240
We well-educated men
should be sensible and ethical.
263
00:11:49,240 --> 00:11:50,320
Why could we ignore this?
264
00:11:50,320 --> 00:11:51,159
Lower your voice.
265
00:11:55,919 --> 00:11:57,200
Please don't mind them.
They are always like this.
266
00:11:58,519 --> 00:11:59,679
Even if you can cover my mouth,
267
00:11:59,960 --> 00:12:01,279
you can't cover others'...
268
00:12:03,320 --> 00:12:04,279
I beg of you.
269
00:12:04,960 --> 00:12:06,559
Let me finish first.
270
00:12:08,919 --> 00:12:10,159
Fan, please have some water.
271
00:12:10,159 --> 00:12:10,840
Sure, thank you.
272
00:12:11,360 --> 00:12:12,240
Let me introduce him to you.
273
00:12:12,679 --> 00:12:13,919
This is Yang Wanli from Quanzhou.
274
00:12:14,240 --> 00:12:15,559
He is quite famous in his hometown.
275
00:12:15,600 --> 00:12:16,960
He is the top graduate
in the provincial exam.
276
00:12:17,159 --> 00:12:18,000
Among the four of us,
277
00:12:18,200 --> 00:12:19,320
Yang is the most knowledgeable.
278
00:12:20,200 --> 00:12:21,159
Nice to meet you, Yang.
279
00:12:21,600 --> 00:12:22,039
Likewise.
280
00:12:28,080 --> 00:12:28,720
I will go and sound the yamen's drum...
281
00:12:28,720 --> 00:12:30,399
Being book-smart isn't enough.
282
00:12:31,039 --> 00:12:32,159
Even if you want to report corruption,
283
00:12:32,639 --> 00:12:33,320
who will believe
284
00:12:33,639 --> 00:12:34,320
people like us?
285
00:12:35,559 --> 00:12:36,360
I heard that Mr. Fan
286
00:12:36,879 --> 00:12:37,279
is...
287
00:12:37,279 --> 00:12:38,080
Do you even know him?
288
00:12:40,240 --> 00:12:40,919
I can try to get to know him.
289
00:12:41,240 --> 00:12:42,559
Does Mr. Guo know Mr. Fan?
290
00:12:43,320 --> 00:12:43,879
Of course.
291
00:12:43,960 --> 00:12:45,960
Who among you two is closer to Mr. Fan?
292
00:12:46,559 --> 00:12:47,080
Mr. Guo.
293
00:12:47,720 --> 00:12:49,840
They preside over
the spring exam together.
294
00:12:50,279 --> 00:12:51,360
What if
295
00:12:51,679 --> 00:12:52,440
they came to a consensus on this?
296
00:12:54,825 --> 00:12:55,279
[Yang Wanli,]
297
00:12:55,279 --> 00:12:56,159
[candidate of the spring exam]
I see what you mean.
298
00:12:56,559 --> 00:12:57,279
You are saying
299
00:12:58,000 --> 00:12:59,799
that Mr. Fan and Mr. Guo
300
00:13:00,840 --> 00:13:02,480
are in cahoots...
301
00:13:03,000 --> 00:13:04,200
I didn't mean that.
302
00:13:04,879 --> 00:13:05,519
What did you mean, then?
303
00:13:05,600 --> 00:13:06,320
What I'm trying to say is,
304
00:13:07,960 --> 00:13:08,480
put up with that.
305
00:13:08,799 --> 00:13:09,919
Don't ever bring this up again.
306
00:13:09,919 --> 00:13:11,879
If I were to tolerate this,
what's the point of studying?
307
00:13:13,919 --> 00:13:14,799
If you want to intervene with this,
308
00:13:15,159 --> 00:13:16,000
now is not the time.
309
00:13:16,840 --> 00:13:17,639
When?
310
00:13:18,159 --> 00:13:18,960
Yang, let me ask you.
311
00:13:20,120 --> 00:13:21,279
Why did we come to the Capital?
312
00:13:23,960 --> 00:13:24,399
To become officials.
313
00:13:24,480 --> 00:13:26,240
Then, why are we working
on the renovation here?
314
00:13:26,519 --> 00:13:27,159
To become officials.
315
00:13:27,440 --> 00:13:28,679
If so, are you an official now?
316
00:13:28,960 --> 00:13:29,360
No.
317
00:13:30,000 --> 00:13:30,960
If you want to intervene,
318
00:13:31,240 --> 00:13:33,399
tolerate it until we gain power.
319
00:13:40,039 --> 00:13:41,519
Do educated men really
have to endure this?
320
00:13:41,519 --> 00:13:42,360
This is the norm.
321
00:13:44,759 --> 00:13:45,159
I will take my leave.
322
00:13:46,159 --> 00:13:46,600
Yang.
323
00:13:47,159 --> 00:13:47,600
Yang.
324
00:13:50,960 --> 00:13:51,840
How come a scholar
325
00:13:52,200 --> 00:13:53,120
is so reckless?
326
00:13:56,159 --> 00:13:56,639
Hou,
327
00:13:57,360 --> 00:13:58,360
just now,
328
00:13:58,720 --> 00:14:00,840
you said everyone came here
because they want to become officials.
329
00:14:01,200 --> 00:14:01,720
What does that mean?
330
00:14:02,960 --> 00:14:03,559
Nothing.
331
00:14:04,159 --> 00:14:05,080
Life is hard.
332
00:14:05,679 --> 00:14:06,919
We are just making a living here.
333
00:14:08,080 --> 00:14:08,919
Besides money,
334
00:14:09,120 --> 00:14:10,240
Hou also told us more
335
00:14:10,240 --> 00:14:12,200
about this renovation work.
336
00:14:12,240 --> 00:14:12,639
Shi.
337
00:14:12,720 --> 00:14:13,240
Don't worry.
338
00:14:13,480 --> 00:14:13,879
Shi...
339
00:14:13,879 --> 00:14:14,559
We are candidates.
340
00:14:14,679 --> 00:14:15,039
Shi...
341
00:14:15,039 --> 00:14:15,679
We should share.
342
00:14:16,279 --> 00:14:16,919
Hou said
343
00:14:17,279 --> 00:14:18,159
we came here to work
344
00:14:18,360 --> 00:14:19,440
not only for money,
345
00:14:19,720 --> 00:14:21,159
but also to show our faces.
346
00:14:21,559 --> 00:14:22,120
Show our faces?
347
00:14:22,639 --> 00:14:24,000
Candidates who came here
348
00:14:24,240 --> 00:14:25,720
have their names registered.
349
00:14:26,519 --> 00:14:28,320
Mr. Guo is here on the site.
350
00:14:28,679 --> 00:14:29,440
It would be best
351
00:14:29,759 --> 00:14:32,039
if he could remember our names.
352
00:14:32,399 --> 00:14:33,279
Remember our names?
353
00:14:41,240 --> 00:14:41,840
Fan, you see.
354
00:14:42,840 --> 00:14:44,320
There are so many candidates.
355
00:14:44,679 --> 00:14:45,879
If our names could be remembered,
356
00:14:46,360 --> 00:14:47,720
we could leave him
with a good impression.
357
00:14:48,240 --> 00:14:49,799
Maybe he might take an extra look
358
00:14:49,919 --> 00:14:51,679
when he reviews our exam papers.
359
00:14:53,879 --> 00:14:55,320
Hou, you are thinking ahead.
360
00:14:56,720 --> 00:14:58,679
Otherwise, people like us
361
00:14:59,720 --> 00:15:00,840
wouldn't be able to pass the exam.
362
00:15:02,039 --> 00:15:03,320
Isn't the spring exam
assessing our knowledge?
363
00:15:04,080 --> 00:15:04,879
Knowledge is useless
364
00:15:05,879 --> 00:15:06,840
if we come from a humble background.
365
00:15:07,080 --> 00:15:08,200
How is that related to one's background?
366
00:15:08,960 --> 00:15:09,919
Mr. Fan, let me tell you this.
367
00:15:10,799 --> 00:15:12,559
Candidates in the spring exam every year
368
00:15:14,440 --> 00:15:15,519
are too many to count.
369
00:15:17,000 --> 00:15:19,080
However, there are only limited quotas
for each department.
370
00:15:20,919 --> 00:15:21,879
There are rumors circulating
371
00:15:23,000 --> 00:15:24,240
that the court officials,
372
00:15:24,519 --> 00:15:25,480
someone from the palace,
373
00:15:25,600 --> 00:15:26,600
and the imperial academy
374
00:15:26,720 --> 00:15:28,039
would select some candidates
and famous scholars.
375
00:15:28,279 --> 00:15:30,120
Consequently,
there aren't many spots left.
376
00:15:30,360 --> 00:15:31,759
How come they begin to select candidates
even before the exam?
377
00:15:32,480 --> 00:15:33,600
People who are of means
and with backgrounds
378
00:15:34,120 --> 00:15:34,879
would seek apprenticeships
379
00:15:35,080 --> 00:15:35,759
and offer their services to dignitaries.
380
00:15:36,480 --> 00:15:37,399
Seeing as they would eventually
become peers in court,
381
00:15:37,440 --> 00:15:38,080
those dignitaries
382
00:15:38,240 --> 00:15:38,759
would undoubtedly
383
00:15:39,320 --> 00:15:41,080
help their own disciples.
384
00:15:42,080 --> 00:15:42,840
What's the point of all that?
385
00:15:43,120 --> 00:15:43,879
Candidates will only be evaluated
386
00:15:44,679 --> 00:15:45,639
by their knowledge.
387
00:15:45,919 --> 00:15:46,639
Obtaining special favors
388
00:15:48,200 --> 00:15:49,399
is more effective
than having a knowledgeable mind.
389
00:15:50,600 --> 00:15:51,559
From what you said,
390
00:15:51,759 --> 00:15:52,879
this spring exam
391
00:15:53,600 --> 00:15:55,799
is held for the court officials
to choose lackeys.
392
00:15:56,320 --> 00:15:57,519
Yang, mind your mouth.
393
00:15:58,600 --> 00:16:00,159
You might lose your life
for saying that.
394
00:16:02,240 --> 00:16:03,039
Fan,
395
00:16:03,480 --> 00:16:04,120
don't take it too seriously.
396
00:16:04,960 --> 00:16:05,759
Don't get yourself in trouble.
397
00:16:09,960 --> 00:16:11,000
Selecting candidates before the exam
398
00:16:11,759 --> 00:16:12,840
and using the exam as a smokescreen.
399
00:16:15,000 --> 00:16:16,000
Isn't this cheating?
400
00:16:16,600 --> 00:16:17,360
That's right.
401
00:16:17,360 --> 00:16:18,159
Not so loud.
402
00:16:21,159 --> 00:16:22,200
I'm wondering
403
00:16:23,039 --> 00:16:24,080
if this is true,
404
00:16:24,879 --> 00:16:26,000
why hasn't anyone exposed
this situation?
405
00:16:26,279 --> 00:16:26,799
Expose whom?
406
00:16:27,879 --> 00:16:28,679
The justice court
407
00:16:30,159 --> 00:16:31,120
is also run by officials.
408
00:16:31,360 --> 00:16:32,399
Where is fairness?
409
00:16:32,559 --> 00:16:33,039
What did you say?
410
00:16:33,159 --> 00:16:33,759
Fairness.
411
00:16:33,879 --> 00:16:34,840
There is no such thing.
412
00:16:35,399 --> 00:16:36,279
Without fairness,
413
00:16:37,000 --> 00:16:37,600
isn't this spring exam
414
00:16:38,480 --> 00:16:39,399
a laughable joke?
415
00:16:40,559 --> 00:16:41,240
Perhaps
416
00:16:42,200 --> 00:16:43,360
we could change this
417
00:16:44,600 --> 00:16:45,879
when we succeed.
418
00:16:50,320 --> 00:16:50,919
Where is Cheng Jialin?
419
00:16:51,919 --> 00:16:52,840
He is breaking stones in the backyard.
420
00:16:53,440 --> 00:16:54,159
I told him
421
00:16:55,240 --> 00:16:56,039
to keep his mouth shut.
422
00:16:57,639 --> 00:16:58,639
Now I think of it,
423
00:16:59,200 --> 00:17:00,159
this is truly meaningless.
424
00:17:01,120 --> 00:17:01,679
I'm back to work.
425
00:17:02,840 --> 00:17:03,240
Shi.
426
00:17:04,640 --> 00:17:05,599
Be discreet.
427
00:17:11,759 --> 00:17:12,200
Fan.
428
00:17:14,240 --> 00:17:14,759
Can you do me a favor?
429
00:17:17,559 --> 00:17:18,200
Hou Jichang.
430
00:17:18,960 --> 00:17:20,000
You are so well done!
431
00:17:20,200 --> 00:17:21,400
You have carried so many logs
by yourself.
432
00:17:22,000 --> 00:17:22,880
It's my duty.
433
00:17:22,880 --> 00:17:23,759
Good work.
434
00:17:24,319 --> 00:17:25,240
Do you want to take a rest?
435
00:17:25,240 --> 00:17:26,599
You haven't had any water
since this morning.
436
00:17:27,079 --> 00:17:27,799
It's fine.
437
00:17:28,000 --> 00:17:28,680
It's my duty.
438
00:17:28,680 --> 00:17:29,319
Are you sure?
439
00:17:29,839 --> 00:17:30,960
Let me give you a hand.
440
00:17:31,279 --> 00:17:31,880
That's enough.
441
00:17:32,119 --> 00:17:33,079
Enough.
442
00:17:33,240 --> 00:17:33,759
Enough?
443
00:17:33,759 --> 00:17:34,160
Yes.
444
00:17:34,160 --> 00:17:34,480
Sure?
445
00:17:35,680 --> 00:17:36,200
Should I give a few more shouts?
446
00:17:36,359 --> 00:17:37,599
No need. That's enough.
447
00:17:38,839 --> 00:17:39,319
Fan,
448
00:17:39,839 --> 00:17:40,240
here you go.
449
00:17:41,119 --> 00:17:41,680
- Eat some flatbread.
- No, thanks.
450
00:17:41,920 --> 00:17:42,319
Eat this.
451
00:17:42,519 --> 00:17:43,119
Keep it for yourself.
452
00:17:43,359 --> 00:17:44,400
Well, I will buy your drinks
the other day.
453
00:17:44,400 --> 00:17:44,799
Sure thing.
454
00:17:45,119 --> 00:17:45,640
Thank you.
455
00:18:10,880 --> 00:18:11,599
Mr. Fan?
456
00:18:11,759 --> 00:18:12,839
Do you recognize me, Mr. Guo?
457
00:18:15,000 --> 00:18:17,359
I have seen your brilliant debate
in the court before.
458
00:18:18,240 --> 00:18:18,759
Uh...
459
00:18:20,599 --> 00:18:22,880
You are the chief examiner this time,
Mr. Guo.
460
00:18:23,319 --> 00:18:24,200
Please don't be so courteous.
461
00:18:24,359 --> 00:18:26,000
[Guo Zheng, Minister of Rites]
Mr. Fan, you are a great prospect.
462
00:18:26,000 --> 00:18:26,400
[Guo Zheng, Minister of Rites]
463
00:18:26,400 --> 00:18:28,319
I know you will go places in the future.
464
00:18:28,880 --> 00:18:29,640
Mr. Fan,
465
00:18:30,279 --> 00:18:31,519
what brings you to the exam hall?
466
00:18:32,680 --> 00:18:34,319
I swing by to visit you.
467
00:18:35,279 --> 00:18:37,480
I have been meaning to meet you.
468
00:18:37,680 --> 00:18:38,680
Please have a seat.
469
00:18:38,880 --> 00:18:39,519
There is no need for that.
470
00:18:40,359 --> 00:18:40,920
Mr. Guo,
471
00:18:41,359 --> 00:18:42,079
may I ask you a question?
472
00:18:42,599 --> 00:18:43,079
Please.
473
00:18:43,759 --> 00:18:45,079
Using poor-quality replacement materials
474
00:18:45,599 --> 00:18:48,119
in the renovation of the exam hall,
475
00:18:48,359 --> 00:18:48,960
are you aware of this?
476
00:18:49,400 --> 00:18:50,599
They are not that bad.
477
00:18:51,400 --> 00:18:52,799
The materials are durable.
478
00:18:58,599 --> 00:19:00,279
In that case, you are aware of this.
479
00:19:03,400 --> 00:19:04,400
If I said I didn't,
480
00:19:04,880 --> 00:19:05,960
wouldn't it be absurd?
481
00:19:06,400 --> 00:19:08,359
Does the Ministry of Revenue
allocate funds for the renovation?
482
00:19:08,519 --> 00:19:09,240
Of course.
483
00:19:09,920 --> 00:19:12,319
We wouldn't dare renovate the premises
without the funds.
484
00:19:12,440 --> 00:19:14,400
Since you are installing
more "durable" materials,
485
00:19:14,799 --> 00:19:15,640
how much money is left?
486
00:19:16,680 --> 00:19:18,559
I believe there are remaining.
487
00:19:18,920 --> 00:19:21,039
Those kiln bricks
and Phoebe Zhennan pillars
488
00:19:21,039 --> 00:19:21,839
are valuable.
489
00:19:22,160 --> 00:19:25,240
They are stored
in the Ministry of Rites' warehouse.
490
00:19:25,839 --> 00:19:28,319
The remaining money is also
recorded in the ledger.
491
00:19:28,640 --> 00:19:31,400
I know you have a lofty ambition.
492
00:19:31,599 --> 00:19:33,440
You vow to fight
against corruption and evil.
493
00:19:33,880 --> 00:19:35,119
I commend you on that.
494
00:19:35,480 --> 00:19:37,119
So I won't overstep your line.
495
00:19:37,480 --> 00:19:38,079
Not a single dime
496
00:19:38,920 --> 00:19:39,960
of this renovation project
497
00:19:40,799 --> 00:19:43,799
has come into my pocket.
498
00:19:43,920 --> 00:19:45,279
My conscience is clear.
499
00:19:47,519 --> 00:19:48,960
If you don't believe me,
500
00:19:50,240 --> 00:19:51,079
feel free to investigate.
501
00:19:51,519 --> 00:19:53,000
The Ministry of Rites
will cooperate fully.
502
00:19:53,319 --> 00:19:54,039
The money is recorded in the ledger?
503
00:19:54,359 --> 00:19:54,799
Fully recorded.
504
00:19:55,039 --> 00:19:55,920
The materials are in the warehouse.
505
00:19:56,200 --> 00:19:57,319
None are missing.
506
00:20:01,880 --> 00:20:03,440
I'm confused.
507
00:20:04,680 --> 00:20:06,240
What are you after
508
00:20:07,720 --> 00:20:08,359
for doing this?
509
00:20:08,559 --> 00:20:11,519
As the Minister of Rites,
510
00:20:11,960 --> 00:20:13,400
I mustn't sit on my hands.
511
00:20:14,279 --> 00:20:15,680
We officials
512
00:20:16,000 --> 00:20:17,720
should do practical things.
513
00:20:23,720 --> 00:20:24,400
Point taken.
514
00:20:25,440 --> 00:20:27,359
The renovation is a practical thing.
515
00:20:27,359 --> 00:20:28,119
It's considered
516
00:20:29,200 --> 00:20:30,160
the political performance.
517
00:20:31,000 --> 00:20:31,720
Political performance?
518
00:20:33,720 --> 00:20:35,000
That's a wise choice of words.
519
00:20:35,799 --> 00:20:37,000
I haven't heard it before.
520
00:20:38,400 --> 00:20:39,119
Political performance.
521
00:20:39,960 --> 00:20:41,240
You even drew yourself a portrait.
522
00:20:44,160 --> 00:20:46,240
It's proof of my contribution.
523
00:20:46,839 --> 00:20:49,440
It will remind me of what I have done.
524
00:20:49,839 --> 00:20:51,200
What about the remaining money?
525
00:20:51,519 --> 00:20:52,559
There are many officials
in the Ministry of Rites.
526
00:20:52,839 --> 00:20:54,680
It's difficult for them
to provide for the family.
527
00:20:54,960 --> 00:20:57,359
Besides, they need money
to buy liquor and meat
528
00:20:57,559 --> 00:20:58,359
during festivals.
529
00:20:58,640 --> 00:20:59,160
Don't you think so?
530
00:20:59,480 --> 00:21:00,440
What about the material
in the warehouse?
531
00:21:01,799 --> 00:21:03,200
We are clean officials.
532
00:21:03,920 --> 00:21:06,799
Some officials might need to repair
533
00:21:07,240 --> 00:21:08,200
their run-down houses.
534
00:21:10,480 --> 00:21:11,559
With the materials in the warehouse.
535
00:21:11,960 --> 00:21:13,240
It's not against the rules.
536
00:21:13,440 --> 00:21:14,519
It's not illegal.
537
00:21:15,000 --> 00:21:16,400
This isn't against the rules.
538
00:21:17,039 --> 00:21:17,920
Absolutely.
539
00:21:19,480 --> 00:21:20,799
Mr. Guo, you have been
in office for years.
540
00:21:21,000 --> 00:21:23,880
You have the court's rules
wrapped around your finger.
541
00:21:25,880 --> 00:21:26,920
I'm clean,
542
00:21:27,480 --> 00:21:29,079
but I need to take care of myself.
543
00:21:30,440 --> 00:21:31,960
Aren't you afraid
that those candidates might find out?
544
00:21:32,960 --> 00:21:34,240
It's no use even if they do.
545
00:21:35,200 --> 00:21:37,000
If someone succeeds in the exam
546
00:21:37,000 --> 00:21:38,799
and impeaches you,
it will be troublesome.
547
00:21:39,359 --> 00:21:41,400
Mr. Fan, like I said,
548
00:21:42,160 --> 00:21:43,519
nothing I do is against the rules.
549
00:21:44,480 --> 00:21:46,279
Besides, these people out there
550
00:21:46,599 --> 00:21:47,839
won't make it through the exam.
551
00:21:49,640 --> 00:21:50,200
What do you mean?
552
00:21:52,920 --> 00:21:53,799
In the coming spring exam,
553
00:21:54,079 --> 00:21:55,640
names on this list
554
00:21:55,920 --> 00:21:57,880
[Record of Spring Exam Hall Renovation]
will be disqualified.
555
00:21:58,519 --> 00:21:59,000
Why is that so?
556
00:22:00,519 --> 00:22:01,440
These candidates
557
00:22:01,960 --> 00:22:02,839
are cunning.
558
00:22:03,400 --> 00:22:04,920
Why did they come here to work?
559
00:22:05,279 --> 00:22:06,680
All they want is
560
00:22:06,680 --> 00:22:07,920
to impress me.
561
00:22:08,359 --> 00:22:10,279
How could we admit
562
00:22:10,759 --> 00:22:11,559
opportunistic candidates like them?
563
00:22:12,480 --> 00:22:13,839
Even though they didn't do anything yet?
564
00:22:13,920 --> 00:22:17,000
Literary men must
have a noble character,
565
00:22:18,519 --> 00:22:19,359
like me.
566
00:22:19,960 --> 00:22:21,960
I can't tolerate shameless fawners.
567
00:22:30,000 --> 00:22:31,440
Is any of these candidates
568
00:22:33,079 --> 00:22:34,200
your retainer?
569
00:22:34,880 --> 00:22:36,359
I just don't want
570
00:22:37,000 --> 00:22:37,920
to go hard on them.
571
00:22:38,160 --> 00:22:40,839
Mr. Fan, one's character
is all that matters.
572
00:22:51,240 --> 00:22:51,920
Look at me.
573
00:22:52,680 --> 00:22:55,559
I unconditionally believe in
your character.
574
00:22:57,720 --> 00:22:59,240
No matter what your intention is,
575
00:23:00,039 --> 00:23:00,759
I won't oppose it.
576
00:23:01,119 --> 00:23:01,839
Have it your way.
577
00:23:08,880 --> 00:23:09,720
Hou Jichang.
578
00:23:10,440 --> 00:23:11,920
You are so capable.
579
00:23:12,480 --> 00:23:13,680
Indeed, Hou Jichang.
580
00:23:14,240 --> 00:23:15,599
You are so hardworking.
581
00:23:15,599 --> 00:23:17,079
It's my duty.
582
00:23:17,799 --> 00:23:19,680
You are so amazing, Hou Jichang.
583
00:23:19,799 --> 00:23:21,839
You have been carrying the logs
a thousand times, right?
584
00:23:23,680 --> 00:23:25,519
Well done, Hou Jichang!
585
00:23:26,759 --> 00:23:29,839
Hou Jichang, great work!
586
00:23:29,839 --> 00:23:31,359
Let's change to another side.
587
00:23:32,440 --> 00:23:35,400
Hou Jichang, great work!
588
00:24:15,319 --> 00:24:16,400
The accommodation fee in the Capital
589
00:24:16,640 --> 00:24:18,880
is too hefty for the candidates.
590
00:24:20,160 --> 00:24:21,279
Poor candidates
591
00:24:21,640 --> 00:24:23,240
have to find a way to make money.
592
00:24:25,720 --> 00:24:27,000
So many of them.
593
00:24:27,599 --> 00:24:28,240
Exactly.
594
00:24:28,839 --> 00:24:30,480
Potential literary men across the world
595
00:24:30,799 --> 00:24:32,640
have gathered in the Capital.
596
00:24:44,359 --> 00:24:45,440
That candidate is quite of age.
597
00:24:45,640 --> 00:24:47,039
I bet he has taken the exam
several times.
598
00:24:48,240 --> 00:24:49,920
He must come here bearing hopes
every time.
599
00:24:50,559 --> 00:24:51,640
Only a few will be selected
from a large pool of candidates.
600
00:24:52,200 --> 00:24:53,519
Not everyone can have the chance.
601
00:24:55,359 --> 00:24:56,480
What does the spring exam mean
602
00:24:56,960 --> 00:24:57,799
to them?
603
00:24:58,440 --> 00:25:00,599
It's the grace from the state.
604
00:25:01,240 --> 00:25:01,799
What else?
605
00:25:02,559 --> 00:25:04,519
As you said,
606
00:25:05,119 --> 00:25:07,759
it's an opportunity
to change their destiny.
607
00:25:08,279 --> 00:25:08,839
Right.
608
00:25:09,799 --> 00:25:11,440
They study hard for years
609
00:25:12,240 --> 00:25:13,759
for this very opportunity.
610
00:25:15,720 --> 00:25:17,440
This is supposed
to be a fair opportunity.
611
00:25:25,000 --> 00:25:26,519
Have you heard about
the spring exam corruption?
612
00:25:27,839 --> 00:25:29,160
Look, the pigeon is plumpy.
613
00:25:29,160 --> 00:25:30,279
It must be
from the Imperial Inspectorate.
614
00:25:30,279 --> 00:25:31,720
I doubt it flies the long route.
615
00:25:32,000 --> 00:25:33,279
I... I didn't have anything now.
616
00:25:33,279 --> 00:25:33,920
Otherwise, I would...
617
00:25:33,920 --> 00:25:34,680
Don't deflect.
618
00:25:35,400 --> 00:25:36,240
I was just asking casually.
619
00:25:37,279 --> 00:25:38,000
You can answer it casually.
620
00:25:42,920 --> 00:25:44,759
If so, I will answer it casually.
621
00:25:46,680 --> 00:25:47,960
Before the spring exam begins,
622
00:25:48,440 --> 00:25:51,519
many candidates have already
sought apprenticeships
623
00:25:51,799 --> 00:25:53,119
and offered their services
to dignitaries.
624
00:25:54,519 --> 00:25:55,200
This sorry bunch
625
00:25:56,119 --> 00:25:58,160
secured a guaranteed future
even before the exam.
626
00:26:00,160 --> 00:26:01,079
The exam hall
627
00:26:01,799 --> 00:26:03,839
is merely a smokescreen.
628
00:26:37,799 --> 00:26:38,400
What about them?
629
00:26:38,920 --> 00:26:39,680
They weren't born
630
00:26:41,039 --> 00:26:42,160
with such privileges.
631
00:26:42,720 --> 00:26:44,640
Does the Imperial Inspectorate
not know about this?
632
00:26:45,000 --> 00:26:45,960
They know a thing or two.
633
00:26:46,680 --> 00:26:48,359
Their duty is to monitor the officials.
Why didn't they look into this?
634
00:26:50,319 --> 00:26:51,519
Only big shots
635
00:26:51,920 --> 00:26:54,039
take in disciples.
636
00:26:54,680 --> 00:26:55,359
They are too difficult and influential
637
00:26:55,920 --> 00:26:57,799
to be investigated.
638
00:26:58,359 --> 00:27:00,519
This unwritten rule
has been perpetuated for years.
639
00:27:00,680 --> 00:27:01,680
Everyone got used to that.
640
00:27:01,880 --> 00:27:03,119
But to them,
641
00:27:03,920 --> 00:27:05,279
this is
a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
642
00:27:05,920 --> 00:27:08,640
There are some quotas allocated
for the candidates in the exam hall.
643
00:27:21,000 --> 00:27:21,720
This is just not fair.
644
00:27:46,359 --> 00:27:47,599
What is the name of the inn again?
645
00:27:48,039 --> 00:27:48,559
Tongfu.
646
00:27:48,920 --> 00:27:49,759
Did Fan Xian go there?
647
00:27:49,960 --> 00:27:50,440
Yes.
648
00:27:51,039 --> 00:27:51,480
But the man wasn't there.
649
00:27:51,680 --> 00:27:52,400
So he headed to the exam hall.
650
00:27:52,960 --> 00:27:54,599
To find that Shi what?
651
00:27:54,960 --> 00:27:55,680
Shi Chanli.
652
00:27:56,519 --> 00:27:57,079
He met him,
653
00:27:58,240 --> 00:27:59,240
but they didn't talk much.
654
00:27:59,839 --> 00:28:01,480
Our men watched them from a distance.
655
00:28:01,920 --> 00:28:03,799
They said Shi Chanli didn't look sad.
656
00:28:04,480 --> 00:28:06,079
He probably didn't know
657
00:28:06,519 --> 00:28:07,400
about the massacre in Shijia Town.
658
00:28:08,319 --> 00:28:09,680
He didn't tell him anything?
659
00:28:11,240 --> 00:28:12,400
Then, why did he go there?
660
00:28:12,759 --> 00:28:13,240
Yes, why?
661
00:28:15,200 --> 00:28:15,920
What a wasted trip.
662
00:28:17,200 --> 00:28:18,480
I wonder
663
00:28:19,200 --> 00:28:20,400
what is on Fan Xian's mind.
664
00:28:32,960 --> 00:28:33,519
Mr. Fan,
665
00:28:34,160 --> 00:28:35,000
what are you thinking?
666
00:28:35,359 --> 00:28:36,480
Nothing, really.
667
00:28:38,079 --> 00:28:39,319
The spring exam is in a few days.
668
00:28:40,519 --> 00:28:42,039
I wonder how Shi Chanli
would handle the exam
669
00:28:42,119 --> 00:28:43,240
if he knew what happened
in his hometown.
670
00:28:45,599 --> 00:28:46,160
Let's wait.
671
00:28:47,480 --> 00:28:48,440
The First Division is watching him.
672
00:28:49,599 --> 00:28:52,400
We will see what to do
after he finishes the exam smoothly.
673
00:28:54,880 --> 00:28:55,519
Mr. Fan,
674
00:28:57,039 --> 00:28:58,440
you are really different.
675
00:29:01,559 --> 00:29:02,440
How so?
676
00:29:02,880 --> 00:29:04,440
Other officials
677
00:29:05,200 --> 00:29:06,440
couldn't care less about these people.
678
00:29:08,279 --> 00:29:09,920
At least, we should treat them
with the slightest respect.
679
00:29:14,875 --> 00:29:16,925
[Fan's Residence]
680
00:29:26,119 --> 00:29:26,759
Have we reached home?
681
00:29:27,400 --> 00:29:28,880
You should look at this.
682
00:29:37,759 --> 00:29:39,240
This is for Mr. Fan.
683
00:29:39,599 --> 00:29:41,440
Just a little gift. Please accept it.
684
00:29:42,160 --> 00:29:43,119
Isn't that Xin Qiwu?
685
00:29:43,640 --> 00:29:44,160
It's him.
686
00:29:45,160 --> 00:29:46,440
Some of them also look familiar.
687
00:29:46,519 --> 00:29:47,440
I saw them in the court.
688
00:29:48,039 --> 00:29:49,200
They are in casual clothes now.
689
00:29:50,000 --> 00:29:52,359
It would be inconvenient
if they wore the official robes.
690
00:29:52,920 --> 00:29:54,240
I left a message
691
00:29:54,240 --> 00:29:55,440
inside it.
692
00:29:55,880 --> 00:29:56,680
I shall leave.
693
00:29:57,119 --> 00:29:58,599
Mr. Fan doesn't take gifts.
694
00:29:58,839 --> 00:29:59,480
No gifts.
695
00:29:59,839 --> 00:30:01,720
It's true. Please take it back.
696
00:30:03,039 --> 00:30:03,839
Coming through.
697
00:30:05,200 --> 00:30:05,960
We don't accept gifts.
698
00:30:06,240 --> 00:30:06,880
We don't accept gifts.
699
00:30:07,119 --> 00:30:07,640
He is coming this way.
700
00:30:07,720 --> 00:30:09,359
Please stop giving us the gifts.
We are just servants.
701
00:30:09,519 --> 00:30:10,200
Please stop.
702
00:30:10,720 --> 00:30:12,319
I shall take my leave.
703
00:30:18,240 --> 00:30:19,000
I will put them here.
704
00:30:19,839 --> 00:30:20,640
Please pass them on to Mr. Fan.
705
00:30:23,960 --> 00:30:25,359
It's because of the spring exam?
706
00:30:26,160 --> 00:30:26,799
Apparently.
707
00:30:27,640 --> 00:30:29,200
Come, let's use the back door.
708
00:30:54,440 --> 00:30:54,920
Your Highness,
709
00:30:55,279 --> 00:30:55,880
it doesn't feel right.
710
00:30:56,559 --> 00:30:57,880
How come no one is spotted
in the Fan's Residence?
711
00:30:58,559 --> 00:31:00,279
Because we came in
through the back door.
712
00:31:00,279 --> 00:31:01,880
But this is simply empty.
713
00:31:02,079 --> 00:31:03,079
Do you know why it's empty?
714
00:31:04,160 --> 00:31:04,839
Because
715
00:31:05,799 --> 00:31:06,799
the Fan Residence is in trouble?
716
00:31:08,160 --> 00:31:09,559
Because we haven't been here before.
717
00:31:14,000 --> 00:31:15,480
Where is Fan Xian's courtyard?
718
00:31:16,200 --> 00:31:16,839
Shall we search around?
719
00:31:51,559 --> 00:31:52,039
Put them here.
720
00:31:57,440 --> 00:31:58,119
Go back the same way we came.
721
00:31:58,440 --> 00:31:59,039
Wait for me outside.
722
00:32:33,880 --> 00:32:34,880
It's rotating.
723
00:32:35,960 --> 00:32:36,440
Master,
724
00:32:37,240 --> 00:32:38,119
the Crown Prince came.
725
00:32:38,599 --> 00:32:39,960
Why did you dismiss all the servants?
726
00:32:40,759 --> 00:32:41,720
Did he use the back door?
727
00:32:42,559 --> 00:32:44,960
It doesn't matter which door he used,
he is the Crown Prince.
728
00:32:45,720 --> 00:32:47,720
Now that
you have dismissed the servants,
729
00:32:48,200 --> 00:32:49,240
shouldn't you go and meet him?
730
00:32:49,519 --> 00:32:50,720
He isn't here for me.
731
00:32:50,960 --> 00:32:51,839
I can't go.
732
00:33:00,039 --> 00:33:01,400
Do you know how to navigate
733
00:33:01,920 --> 00:33:03,359
with the volatile officialdom?
734
00:33:03,920 --> 00:33:04,599
How?
735
00:33:05,440 --> 00:33:06,119
Stand steady.
736
00:33:07,480 --> 00:33:09,880
Just mind our own business.
737
00:33:10,039 --> 00:33:11,680
It's better to stay out
738
00:33:11,960 --> 00:33:13,559
of things unrelated to us.
739
00:33:16,599 --> 00:33:17,200
Master,
740
00:33:18,111 --> 00:33:21,031
why did the Crown Prince
come here personally
741
00:33:21,279 --> 00:33:22,200
for Fan Xian?
742
00:33:22,640 --> 00:33:23,839
What else could it be?
743
00:33:24,359 --> 00:33:25,640
The spring exam is around the corner.
744
00:33:26,720 --> 00:33:27,640
He came to give a heads-up.
745
00:33:29,079 --> 00:33:30,519
But why did he use the back door?
746
00:33:31,880 --> 00:33:33,200
Figure this out yourself.
747
00:33:36,039 --> 00:33:36,759
It's not moving.
748
00:33:58,119 --> 00:33:58,559
My goodness.
749
00:34:17,599 --> 00:34:19,719
Your Highness, why did you dismantle it?
750
00:34:23,280 --> 00:34:24,880
I'm sorry, Fan.
751
00:34:25,440 --> 00:34:26,800
It wasn't moving just now,
752
00:34:27,360 --> 00:34:28,400
so I was thinking of fixing it a bit.
753
00:34:28,400 --> 00:34:28,960
Perhaps
754
00:34:29,800 --> 00:34:30,440
I did it too much.
755
00:34:31,280 --> 00:34:31,920
Well,
756
00:34:32,159 --> 00:34:34,320
how much is this? I will pay you back.
757
00:34:35,039 --> 00:34:36,960
I was joking.
Please get out of the water.
758
00:34:38,800 --> 00:34:39,239
All right.
759
00:34:41,599 --> 00:34:43,559
What brings you here, Your Highness?
760
00:34:46,280 --> 00:34:47,960
Do you want to listen
to the truth or the lie?
761
00:34:48,239 --> 00:34:48,920
I'm fine with either of them.
762
00:34:50,679 --> 00:34:51,519
I came here to talk you out.
763
00:34:51,880 --> 00:34:52,639
Of what?
764
00:34:53,239 --> 00:34:54,639
Because of your fallout with Chengze,
765
00:34:54,960 --> 00:34:55,840
he is grounded for six months.
766
00:34:56,518 --> 00:34:58,400
I feel bad for my own brother.
767
00:34:58,679 --> 00:34:59,880
That's why I must come to advise you.
768
00:35:01,599 --> 00:35:02,440
This is a lie.
769
00:35:05,119 --> 00:35:05,960
Apparently.
770
00:35:07,639 --> 00:35:08,280
What about the truth?
771
00:35:08,840 --> 00:35:09,480
Speaking of the truth...
772
00:35:14,559 --> 00:35:15,159
I'm coming.
773
00:35:19,199 --> 00:35:20,039
Did anyone call him?
774
00:35:20,360 --> 00:35:21,079
As long as he believes so.
775
00:35:23,400 --> 00:35:23,920
The truth is
776
00:35:25,320 --> 00:35:26,599
you upset Chengze,
777
00:35:27,079 --> 00:35:28,920
which made me thrilled.
778
00:35:29,320 --> 00:35:32,079
So I brought some gifts to you.
779
00:35:32,440 --> 00:35:34,079
Your Highness, you surely
didn't see me as an outsider.
780
00:35:34,360 --> 00:35:35,480
You and Chengze are fighting each other.
781
00:35:35,480 --> 00:35:36,519
Of course we are on the same side.
782
00:35:37,000 --> 00:35:38,159
But I don't know what you like.
783
00:35:38,760 --> 00:35:40,119
These are valuables, jewels,
and precious herbs.
784
00:35:40,119 --> 00:35:41,119
I prepared some of everything.
785
00:35:41,880 --> 00:35:42,679
Thank you, Your Highness.
786
00:35:42,880 --> 00:35:43,480
I like them all.
787
00:35:45,519 --> 00:35:46,280
Good that you are frank.
788
00:36:04,159 --> 00:36:06,480
I suppose you didn't come here
only to send gifts, Your Highness.
789
00:36:08,440 --> 00:36:09,280
Well, that's the main reason.
790
00:36:09,800 --> 00:36:10,360
Main reason?
791
00:36:10,800 --> 00:36:11,880
I also have some trivial matters.
792
00:36:12,840 --> 00:36:13,440
How trivial is it?
793
00:36:16,719 --> 00:36:18,000
Just some trivial names.
794
00:36:21,119 --> 00:36:22,039
You are in charge
795
00:36:23,360 --> 00:36:26,400
of the anonymous transcription, right?
796
00:36:26,960 --> 00:36:27,340
[Song Changning]
Pay attention to these names.
797
00:36:27,341 --> 00:36:27,720
[of Guannei Circuit in Linzhou]
Pay attention to these names.
798
00:36:27,722 --> 00:36:28,600
[Wei Sinan of Heinan Circuit in Pizhou]
Pay attention to these names.
799
00:36:28,602 --> 00:36:29,081
[Sheng Huaiyuan]
Pay attention to these names.
800
00:36:29,082 --> 00:36:29,559
[of Longyou Circuit in Linzhou]
Pay attention to these names.
801
00:36:32,199 --> 00:36:33,639
What do you want me to do,
Your Highness?
802
00:36:34,880 --> 00:36:35,679
You don't have to do anything.
803
00:36:36,400 --> 00:36:37,840
Do nothing
during the anonymous transcription.
804
00:36:38,079 --> 00:36:38,679
That's all I need.
805
00:36:40,360 --> 00:36:41,159
Well, there's nothing else.
806
00:36:41,360 --> 00:36:41,960
I should get going.
807
00:36:43,360 --> 00:36:43,960
Initially,
808
00:36:44,119 --> 00:36:45,679
my men were supposed
to send these gifts over.
809
00:36:46,000 --> 00:36:47,840
But then, I thought
we were on the same side.
810
00:36:48,400 --> 00:36:50,360
Also, I missed you,
so I came here myself
811
00:36:51,239 --> 00:36:52,280
to show my sincerity.
812
00:36:53,039 --> 00:36:54,199
You truly are sincere, Your Highness.
813
00:36:55,159 --> 00:36:56,239
There is a survivor in Shijia Town.
814
00:36:56,920 --> 00:36:57,719
You heard about that too?
815
00:36:59,199 --> 00:37:01,199
It concerns Chengze's smuggling.
816
00:37:01,639 --> 00:37:03,000
Naturally, I will pay attention to that.
817
00:37:03,679 --> 00:37:04,440
Is anything worth mentioning?
818
00:37:05,119 --> 00:37:06,159
He is a candidate.
819
00:37:06,280 --> 00:37:07,159
I haven't told him anything yet.
820
00:37:07,320 --> 00:37:09,400
I will wait until the exam is over.
821
00:37:12,920 --> 00:37:13,599
As you say.
822
00:37:14,400 --> 00:37:14,960
I'm leaving.
823
00:37:15,639 --> 00:37:16,119
No need to see me off.
824
00:37:16,679 --> 00:37:17,400
I will find my way out.
825
00:37:18,360 --> 00:37:20,000
Just go in the opposite direction
of the arrow.
826
00:37:35,480 --> 00:37:35,960
Mr. Fan,
827
00:37:36,719 --> 00:37:38,159
here's a letter from Prime Minister Lin.
828
00:37:38,480 --> 00:37:40,280
He sends for you.
829
00:37:50,725 --> 00:37:52,199
[Yuan Hongdao,
counselor of Prime Minister Lin]
830
00:37:52,199 --> 00:37:52,679
Sir,
831
00:37:53,679 --> 00:37:54,960
is this name all right?
832
00:37:56,360 --> 00:37:56,960
Yes.
833
00:38:16,119 --> 00:38:16,599
Mr. Lin.
834
00:38:18,480 --> 00:38:19,320
Do away with formalities.
835
00:38:20,079 --> 00:38:20,599
Come here
836
00:38:21,320 --> 00:38:22,079
and help me.
837
00:38:24,719 --> 00:38:25,480
Lately,
838
00:38:26,440 --> 00:38:28,119
my beard has grown
quite a few white hairs.
839
00:38:29,320 --> 00:38:30,000
Right, there are.
840
00:38:32,960 --> 00:38:34,360
Pull them out for me.
841
00:38:35,559 --> 00:38:36,119
Me?
842
00:38:37,239 --> 00:38:38,480
I can't do this myself.
843
00:38:39,039 --> 00:38:39,800
It hurts.
844
00:39:00,719 --> 00:39:02,639
Come again.
845
00:39:03,920 --> 00:39:04,559
Quick.
846
00:39:15,320 --> 00:39:16,400
One more time.
847
00:39:17,559 --> 00:39:17,960
Pull it off.
848
00:39:19,559 --> 00:39:20,440
No...
849
00:39:20,440 --> 00:39:21,559
Stop here.
850
00:39:23,440 --> 00:39:24,239
Mr. Lin,
851
00:39:25,039 --> 00:39:26,480
I don't think it's that painful.
852
00:39:27,159 --> 00:39:29,639
I can't bear the pain. I'm scared.
853
00:39:30,320 --> 00:39:31,800
Why don't you just trim them?
854
00:39:32,320 --> 00:39:33,480
They still grow.
855
00:39:34,360 --> 00:39:35,800
It doesn't solve the problem.
856
00:39:40,360 --> 00:39:41,440
Let's stop here for today.
857
00:39:42,960 --> 00:39:43,440
Sir,
858
00:39:44,639 --> 00:39:45,639
his background is clean.
859
00:39:46,000 --> 00:39:46,679
All right.
860
00:39:46,679 --> 00:39:48,100
[Huan Xianzhong
of Heinan Circuit in Xuzhou]
861
00:39:52,480 --> 00:39:53,039
Fan Xian.
862
00:39:55,199 --> 00:39:55,840
Look.
863
00:39:56,760 --> 00:39:57,719
My beard
864
00:39:58,639 --> 00:39:59,719
is neat, right?
865
00:40:00,519 --> 00:40:01,000
Refined.
866
00:40:02,519 --> 00:40:03,239
Good.
867
00:40:04,960 --> 00:40:07,119
Being an official is similar to
how we comport ourselves.
868
00:40:07,719 --> 00:40:08,599
Be mindful
869
00:40:09,239 --> 00:40:10,000
of small details.
870
00:40:10,400 --> 00:40:11,400
Most importantly,
871
00:40:12,079 --> 00:40:13,599
don't expose anything
that will give yourself away.
872
00:40:19,159 --> 00:40:20,360
Mr. Lin, what is this?
873
00:40:22,719 --> 00:40:24,679
Dabao likes eating hawthorns.
874
00:40:25,960 --> 00:40:27,280
I'm picking good ones for him.
875
00:40:30,320 --> 00:40:32,239
He always eats eagerly.
876
00:40:33,199 --> 00:40:35,599
I'm afraid he might choke on the seeds.
877
00:40:36,280 --> 00:40:37,039
Mr. Fan,
878
00:40:37,639 --> 00:40:39,039
he won't let servants
879
00:40:39,559 --> 00:40:41,920
do this.
880
00:40:47,159 --> 00:40:48,159
Did the Crown Prince come to you?
881
00:40:50,320 --> 00:40:51,079
Word spreads fast.
882
00:40:52,119 --> 00:40:53,559
Did he give you a name list?
883
00:40:53,840 --> 00:40:54,280
Yes.
884
00:40:55,800 --> 00:40:57,360
He asked me not to do anything
885
00:40:58,119 --> 00:40:59,039
during the anonymous transcription.
886
00:40:59,320 --> 00:41:00,679
Indeed, you don't have to do anything.
887
00:41:01,840 --> 00:41:03,119
Someone will handle it.
888
00:41:04,079 --> 00:41:05,360
You only need to turn a blind eye.
889
00:41:05,679 --> 00:41:06,480
To what?
890
00:41:06,800 --> 00:41:07,960
What else could it be?
891
00:41:08,719 --> 00:41:09,920
Let them put the names
of the selected ones
892
00:41:10,440 --> 00:41:11,599
on the honor roll.
893
00:41:12,475 --> 00:41:13,515
[Spring Metropolitan Exam]
894
00:41:13,517 --> 00:41:15,000
[Yun Heshun of Heinan Circuit
in Laizhou, No. 13 of East]
895
00:41:19,800 --> 00:41:22,650
[No. 13 of East]
896
00:41:22,775 --> 00:41:23,975
[Examiner Sealer's seal]
897
00:41:45,719 --> 00:41:48,400
Pick the chosen candidates out
during the procedure?
898
00:41:48,400 --> 00:41:51,360
These people will definitely
make it onto the honor roll.
899
00:41:56,239 --> 00:41:57,559
What if their essays
aren't well-written?
900
00:41:58,199 --> 00:41:59,199
Won't anyone suspect that?
901
00:41:59,280 --> 00:42:00,559
There is always a way.
902
00:42:01,400 --> 00:42:04,360
That's why your position
is very crucial.
903
00:42:04,719 --> 00:42:05,639
Do you know
904
00:42:06,400 --> 00:42:09,000
how many name lists
those officials and dignitaries will send
905
00:42:09,760 --> 00:42:12,760
to you?
906
00:42:13,760 --> 00:42:14,559
I do.
907
00:42:14,840 --> 00:42:16,599
People have been sending gifts
these days.
908
00:42:17,199 --> 00:42:18,239
They didn't leave their names,
909
00:42:18,519 --> 00:42:20,519
but there is a note
behind each gift box.
910
00:42:21,239 --> 00:42:22,719
Pay no mind to those.
911
00:42:27,039 --> 00:42:27,504
[Fang Shengping, Li Qinglun]
The important names
912
00:42:27,506 --> 00:42:28,079
[Wen Chengjun, Huang Zhongxian]
The important names
913
00:42:29,639 --> 00:42:30,639
are all here.
914
00:42:32,719 --> 00:42:33,599
Why do you have them?
915
00:42:34,320 --> 00:42:35,199
I intercepted the gifts
916
00:42:36,039 --> 00:42:38,239
and had Mr. Yuan filter out the names.
917
00:42:39,559 --> 00:42:40,960
The list is shorter now.
918
00:42:42,159 --> 00:42:43,760
Just remember these names.
919
00:42:48,616 --> 00:42:49,519
Isn't this the spring exam?
920
00:42:49,960 --> 00:42:51,119
Shouldn't they pass the exam
by their merit?
921
00:42:51,480 --> 00:42:53,280
These aren't just names.
922
00:42:54,360 --> 00:42:55,880
This is how
the bureaucratic world works.
923
00:43:16,460 --> 00:43:18,460
♪The youth raises his head♪
924
00:43:18,460 --> 00:43:22,020
♪As he moves toward his moon♪
925
00:43:24,060 --> 00:43:26,180
♪People tease him for being delusional♪
926
00:43:26,180 --> 00:43:29,440
♪Wondering why he is so unconventional♪
927
00:43:31,980 --> 00:43:35,540
♪Wearing a white robe
when crossing a muddy pond♪
928
00:43:35,540 --> 00:43:39,460
♪How could it remain unstained?♪
929
00:43:39,460 --> 00:43:41,380
♪If silver tael has a value♪
930
00:43:41,380 --> 00:43:44,460
♪Who can truly be carefree?♪
931
00:43:45,700 --> 00:43:48,380
♪All of you are right♪
932
00:43:48,400 --> 00:43:50,620
♪He said: "Please"♪
933
00:43:50,620 --> 00:43:53,420
♪"Make way"♪
934
00:43:53,700 --> 00:43:56,180
♪"Let me drink until I drop"♪
935
00:43:56,180 --> 00:43:58,100
♪On the court♪
936
00:43:58,100 --> 00:44:00,940
♪I recite several verses♪
937
00:44:01,140 --> 00:44:03,540
♪Let me wear a white robe♪
938
00:44:03,540 --> 00:44:05,620
♪And cross the alley
filled with insanity♪
939
00:44:05,620 --> 00:44:08,370
♪To scoop up the moon's reflection
in the muddy pond♪
940
00:44:08,860 --> 00:44:11,100
♪Sirs, please forgive me♪
941
00:44:11,100 --> 00:44:13,060
♪Your words of advice♪
942
00:44:13,060 --> 00:44:15,820
♪I understand,
but I don't want to pretend♪
943
00:44:16,100 --> 00:44:18,390
♪People search for the golden land♪
944
00:44:18,390 --> 00:44:20,460
♪While I search for the moon♪
945
00:44:20,460 --> 00:44:22,660
♪Why should we travel together?♪
946
00:44:22,940 --> 00:44:24,860
♪Thank you♪
947
00:44:24,860 --> 00:44:26,940
♪Excuse me♪
948
00:44:26,940 --> 00:44:28,620
♪You are you♪
949
00:44:28,620 --> 00:44:30,220
♪I am me♪
950
00:44:30,540 --> 00:44:32,460
♪Thank you♪
951
00:44:32,460 --> 00:44:34,420
♪Excuse me♪
952
00:44:34,420 --> 00:44:36,220
♪You are you♪
953
00:44:36,220 --> 00:44:39,160
♪I am me♪
954
00:44:51,750 --> 00:44:54,450
♪Wearing a white robe
when crossing a muddy pond♪
955
00:44:55,350 --> 00:44:58,300
♪Remarkably worldly-wise
yet hopelessly romantic♪
956
00:44:59,070 --> 00:45:01,690
♪Know what you love♪
957
00:45:02,400 --> 00:45:04,450
♪Don't change♪
958
00:45:06,860 --> 00:45:09,770
♪If one has witnessed
both light and shadow♪
959
00:45:10,360 --> 00:45:13,500
♪Yet retains their innocence♪
960
00:45:14,010 --> 00:45:16,520
♪They shall be cloaked in moonlight♪
961
00:45:17,100 --> 00:45:19,780
♪As they journey through the night♪
59418
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