Special: 🥺🥺They are not relatives but are better than relatives | The Litchi Road
Master! Master! Run, Qilang! Qilang, run! Kneel! Don’t arrest Qilang! Kneel! Let go of Gou! Don’t arrest Qilang! Let go of Gou! Let him go! Mr. Lu. I’ll take the punishment myself. Mr. Lu. Please let Gou go. He’s still young! Qilang! This is how things are now. You can only die as an atonement! Yesterday, I got a bronze vessel from the envoy of the Right Chancellor. Mr. Lu, please check it. Mr. Lu. It’s a pity that the man is dead. There is only physical evidence. There’s no solid evidence to prove their collusion. Mr. Lu, have you blocked the news? Certainly. Then that’s easy. It still allows for some flexibility. Yesterday, I overheard
the envoy of the Right Chancellor wanted to send the Military Fish Tally
to Lingnan personally. Now he’s dead. I can disguise
as the envoy of the Right Chancellor and get close to He Youguang. If by any chance I get some evidence, I can overthrow the Right Chancellor and solve problems
for the Left Chancellor. If I lose, the Left Chancellor won’t be involved because I’m not an official. Mr. Lu, please allow me to do it. I wish to redeem myself
through contributions. Pan Bao once saw the envoy of the Right Chancellor. If he returns to Lingnan, what should you do? Before I go, I’ll get rid of him first. Pan Bao came to the capital to present
several precious tree species as a tribute to His Majesty. Today, he’ll be in the Leyou Garden. I’m Pan Bao. On the orders
of the Inspector of Gaozhou, I’m here to offer precious trees. But the Leyou Garden is a royal garden. How will you get in? Mr. Lu, please rest assured. You can just give me a waist token
of the Office of Imperial Parks. I will arrange the rest. What are you guys doing here? We are Mr. Li’s colleagues from the Office of Imperial Parks. He said there were some exotic trees from Lingnan, and he couldn’t keep up with the work. So he asked us to help. Which Mr. Li? Li Shande. The one with a giant head and zero guts. He often murmurs to flowers and plants, like, “Oh, peony,
you’re more vivid than a girl.” That’s him. If I fail again, I’m willing to kill myself for this. Mr. Lu, please allow me. I’ll trust you one more time. This is the place
where Pan Bao will pass. The moment he arrives later, you’ll find a chance to attack. Us? Of course, it’s you. I have to get his attention. Later when you do it, be quick and quiet. Be sure to make it look
like an accident. Are you clear? Aye. Do I know you? I actually know you. Not only do I know you, I also know the Right Chancellor. Something happened to the man you met yesterday. You don’t believe me? Do you know this? The Right Chancellor was very angry. He felt he was set up. What does the fire have to do with you? I… How could I possibly set a fire? Let’s continue somewhere else. What happened? Come on! Wake up! Wake up! Wake up! Someone! Someone! The money is for you. I can’t say it will improve
much of your life, but it will cover your basics
for a while. I’ve restored your commoner status. From now on, you are free. Take it. Take the money and go. No! Although I’m a servant, I was fortunate enough
to be by your side since I was a child. Even when you were chased out of the Zheng clan, with all servants scattered, I had never thought of leaving you. Today, please don’t dismiss me either. The situation has changed, Gou. It will be a hazardous journey to Lingnan. You’ll just lose your life following me there. I came from a humble background and was unlettered. But I know I should be grateful! You gave me this name which means I should be loyal and righteous despise the humble origin. Over the years, you have always treated me
like your family. Without you, I won’t have any family nor a home. In my lifetime, I am willing to follow you to the death. I will be by your side and guard you. I’ll pledge with blood! You know nothing! Pledge with blood? You’re still a little kid! It’s hard for you to survive. Get lost! I’m not afraid of death. Qilang! Don’t chase me away! Don’t chase me away! [In memory of my late mother Zhang
and my late father Zheng Fengzhen] Do you think I can still go back to the Zheng family? [In memory of my late mother Zhang
and my late father Zheng Fengzhen] Gou, are you feeling hot? Yes. Why’s it so blasted hot here? We’ll buy a fan another day. We’ve never been here before. This heat is unbearable. Do you remember what I taught you? Yes. Who are you? You rascal! Are you blind? Don’t you recognize who’s arrived? Why strike a servant? Aye. And you dare call others “rascal”? Outrageous! Why the delay? Lead the way now! Sir, this way, please. [Zhao Xinmin,
Chief Secretary to the Inspector] You’re eating it wrong. Sugarcane isn’t meant
to be eaten straight. You chew it to extract the juice, then spit out the pulp. With such a presence, you must be Mr. He? I wouldn’t dare claim that title. I am merely Mr. He’s chief secretary, Zhao Xin, styled Xinmin. And you are? Ma Guiyun, in service to the Right Chancellor. Since you’re older, may I call you Mr. Zhao? Is it appropriate? No. Deeply inappropriate. You’re the Right Chancellor’s
favored man. I’m but a minor official in Lingnan. I should be calling you Mr. Ma. Let’s each use our own terms. Use our own terms. Before my departure, Pan Bao gave me a token. Do you recognize it? Xinmin, look closely. Take your time. Guiyun, don’t take offense. It’s not that I distrust you. But jade cannot speak. Pan Bao and I had an agreement. Any token he willingly gives away would have a corner secretly chipped off, lest… Please understand, Guiyun. I understand. Xinmin, you leave no room for error. Is the corner missing? It is. Indeed. Undeniably genuine. But why hasn’t Pan Bao returned himself, instead sending you all this way? The Right Chancellor’s words were clear. Mr. He’s affairs
are of utmost importance. Not a single detail can be neglected. He entrusted me with the token and sent me ahead to Lingnan to pay respects to Mr. He. I’ve never met the Right Chancellor. Seeing you today is like seeing
the Right Chancellor himself. May I ask where Pan Bao is? Pan Bao remains
with the Right Chancellor, of course. He entrusted me with the token to deliver here. Xinmin, surely you understand? I do. Forgive my dullness. This is a matter of great importance. It’s only prudent for both sides to have their own liaison. Well, did the Right Chancellor entrust you with anything? As it happens, yes. The Right Chancellor insisted that this item be delivered directly to Mr. He. No intermediaries. Otherwise, why would I travel all this way? Understood. But Mr. He is currently on inspection and hasn’t returned. You’re welcome to stay a few days as my guest. In that case, the Right Chancellor has one more matter requiring your advance notice
to Mr. He. His Excellency’s wishes
shall be honored. Is it gold and silver he desires? Or treasures from the Southern Seas? Neither. It’s a letter. If Mr. He would personally draft a letter of fealty to the Right Chancellor, it would dispel all doubts and ensure harmonious cooperation. Is this letter of fealty intended for the court
or the Right Chancellor? Mr. He’s devotion to His Majesty is as unwavering as the sun and moon. Does the Right Chancellor question Mr. He’s sincerity? Well, allow me to share a tale from a banquet in Chang’an. An official needed someone to handle
a confidential matter. He had two subordinates. One with meritorious service, and the other with a criminal past. Which would you choose? Naturally, the one with sins. A man with skeletons in his closet is easier to command. I see. The designs of those above are beyond a mere functionary like me. But the Right Chancellor’s terms
are clear. A letter in exchange for a tally. Rumors say that He Youguang survived a maritime catastrophe years ago, emerging from flames like an unkillable revenant. For a decade since, he’s ruled Lingnan [Fighting Bird]
unchallenged [He Youguang, Inspector of Gaozhou] Good. Great. Give it to me now. He wouldn’t hand it over. Insisted on delivering it to you personally. You should’ve said so earlier. I’ll go fetch it myself. Patience. He made a demand. What demand? The Right Chancellor wants you to write a letter of fealty. Then write it. It’s not so simple. This letter isn’t for His Majesty. It’s for the Right Chancellor. Once written, you’d be giving him an ironclad leash. If it ever surfaces, then… Then what? It’s obvious. We’re already entangled with the Right Chancellor. This is different. How? His Majesty tolerates vassals colluding. But a vassal pledging fealty to another vassal? That is treason. The Right Chancellor plays a deep game. This matter isn’t as simple as it seems. It’s not complicated. It’s not simple. It’s not complicated. This “letter”, to put it simply, is for me to make my bones. Just give him the letter, and his mind will be at ease. When he’s at ease, I’m at ease. He’s at ease and I’m at ease. We’re both at ease. No, we can’t. He’s… He’s using
the Military Fish Tally as leverage. I suspect this is a trap. What trap? My decision’s made. Tonight, you’ll arrange it. Deliver the letter and bring me the Military Fish Tally. After all our tributes, we won’t walk away empty-handed. Sir, your wisdom prevails. I’ve overthought this. By tonight, the Military Fish Tally will be in your grasp. Exactly. Listen, once we secure
the Military Fish Tally, within three months I’ll replace every official top to bottom. Then no one in Lingnan will dare cross us. Indeed, indeed. With your methods, soon they’ll be calling this place “Hezhou” instead! Are you insane? You told me to fear you. You scared me half to death. Does he stay here? Who arranged this? Mr. Li says it’s nothing serious. “Put it on his account”. Whose account? Fine. Brilliant. A master of arithmetic, yet all he’s ever calculated is how to scheme against me. Sir, take another look at this. [Zhengwen Chamber] Sir, are you searching
for a particular book? Please tell me. I’ll go and find it. I’ve been entrusted by someone. The book I seek is rather rare. Discourse on the Establishment
of Consciousness-Only. Do you have it? How are the Left Chancellor and Mr. Lu doing? [Yun Qing] They are both in good health. Your concern is appreciated,
Consultant Konglang. I’m afraid they might not be in a very good mood right now. They sent a covert agent to Lingnan. But he was exposed the moment he arrived. So you already know? The Left Chancellor values talent. I thought he would select someone more capable. Even if not Song Wuji’s equal, at least someone sharper. Yet he chose an utter fool. Let me remind you. Though I am here to assist you, if you fail in your mission, I won’t let you leave Lingnan. I appreciate your candor. Though I lack Song Wuji’s skills, I will stake my life on this. I won’t let my resolve go to waste. I can prove to the Inspector that you are Ma Guiyun. But it’s up to you to gain their trust. They already believed me. But suddenly, a Litchi Envoy appeared and revealed Pan Bao’s death. That made them suspicious again. Then you just need to prove that the Litchi Envoy is lying. Wouldn’t that solve the problem? He’s stubborn as a mule. If I claim that he’s lying, he’ll find every way to prove I’m the liar. And he knows me. He… He knows I’m not Ma Guiyun. Then it’s even simpler. Get him on your side to help you. Our relationship is a bit special. Not in that way. I just don’t want him hounding me. Not that kind of hounding. We’re… Spare me the explanation. If you can’t handle a mere Litchi Envoy, how can you possibly deal with He Youguang? Qilang. Mr. Li is back. Sir. My brother-in-law. Come and eat. Are you going to start your office? Brother-in-law. Move. I’m afraid of you. Please don’t be. Brother-in-law. Last night, my words were improper. Please don’t take it to heart. When your sister was alive, you didn’t even call me that. Now you are calling me that. I dare not accept the grace. Don’t say that. Shande… Shande… I ran to the streets three times to buy Lotus Leaf Glutinous Rice
with Chicken, fillet porridge and prawns. No need. No. I’m a jinx. Whoever sees me will be unlucky. You have cut ties with me. Let go of me. Shande. We can’t break ties like this. Shande. We have Xiu as our connection, right? You also mentioned my sister. Let’s eat, shall we? Don’t make me beg you. I’m a tough man. The Glutinous Rice with Chicken
should be eaten while it’s hot. Let’s go. Shande. If you are asking for money, you’ll have to set aside your pride. Just cling to them like mud, and don’t let them shake you off. Look at the situation now. That old fox blocked all the paths. He just gave you a so-called transit document. Do you know what he meant? Go wherever you like, and don’t bother him. And what else did he say? In the future, – they will do…
– Everything we can
to help you. What is the implication of it? They won’t do anything that they can’t. So what’s your suggestion? My suggestion? Shande. You specialize in arithmetic. I’m no rival to you in this field. But when it comes to matters involving entanglement and mediation, you’ve got to learn from me. Is that so? I can never learn to be so brazen as you are. Get to the point. Shande. I can help you with the money. It’s just that I’m facing my own difficulties now. If you help me get through this hurdle, when we meet obstacles and tasks beyond our abilities in the future, we can always help each other, creating a win-win situation. Now I understand. So the situation is, something shaded your bright future, and you need my little help to solve it. See? You are smart. You get it instantly. But I have to know what it is about. Although your surname is Ma now, and I became your ex-brother-in-law, I will do everything I can to help you in the future. Using what you just learned? So you are talking in circles and dodging me? I don’t like to hear that. You got me into such a crisis, didn’t you? What does it have to do with me? You told them about Pan Bao’s death,
didn’t you? As Ma Guiyun, I didn’t know Pan Bao’s death. Wasn’t I exposed? So who exactly is Ma Guiyun? Stop asking me. It’s dangerous to know much about it. Well, now that you say so, the more reason I have to know. Things have already come to this for me. How much worse can it be? Do you really want to know it? Speak. Then I’ll tell you the truth. Qilang. Gou. Don’t stop me. In this world, The person closest to me is Xiu, right? The second closest person to me is Gou. And you are also closest to me, right? Since you want to know, then I’ll tell you. Even if those who know about Ma Guiyun will die immediately, he is willing to accompany us. Wait… Don’t scare me. I’m bound to die. I’m not afraid of death, nor will I surrender to it. So why bother to scare me with death? Shande. If you don’t know who Ma Guiyun is, you’ll have four more months to live. But once you know who he is, you can only live for eight more hours. And still, you are willing to know. As expected of my brother-in-law. Ma Guiyun is… Well… Ma Guiyun is… Wait, I mean… Ma Guiyun… Actually, I’m not that curious. When you get curious, I’ll tell you that. Alright. So just tell me how to help you. I didn’t know about Pan Bao’s death when I was with Zhao Xinmin. You’ve got to prove I wasn’t lying. Why are you hesitant? Shande. We are now in this together. We are in the same boat. It’s not just about you and me. There are also Xiu and Gou. We’ll row the boat together until we finally make it, Shande. You’ve got to help me. Who is closer to you, me or Gou? [Inspector’s Mansion] An order from the Inspector! Summon Ma Guiyun,
the envoy from Chang’an, for an audience. Summon Ma Guiyun,
the envoy from Chang’an, for an audience. Skip the formalities. Thank you, Mr. He. Your heroic and extraordinary name
precedes you. After seeing you today, I find it not true. Isn’t it? You’re even more heroic than what I heard about. Mr. He. During my days here, you were too occupied with work to meet me. I thought you no longer wanted
the Military Fish Tally. I hope you don’t mind. I did have a lot of work and couldn’t get out of it. How about this? Another day, I’ll prepare a banquet and personally apologize to you, Guiyun. That’s not necessary. Mr. He. I believe you have brought what I want. We might as well exchange. Guiyun. I’m sure you know that I need the Military Fish Tally so much. But even though I like the tally, at the moment, I wouldn’t dare ask for it. Why? Because I’m targeted
by the Left Chancellor. I don’t understand. Think about it. A pawn of the Left Chancellor claimed to be
on the Right Chancellor’s side and killed Pan Bao. Guiyun. I believe you must know who the person is. When did you find out? Yesterday, the words you reminded me with led me to find a flaw. What did I say? You said I should think twice
about what the Litchi Envoy said. He said litchis are perishable and will be rotten within three days
of being picked. This is insinuation. It’s to emphasize the difficulty
of transporting litchis. I have to let them know that I understand the features of litchis. He clearly meant that in Lingnan, we took advantage of the distance for rampant corruption. Is it? What he said next meant even more. He said the reason why His Majesty craved Litchis in Lingnan was that His Majesty
was concerned for Lingnan. As a minor Litchi Envoy, he dared to pressure me
with His Majesty. He was trying to say it is useless for us to collude
with the Right Chancellor, because His Majesty rules
above the Right Chancellor. He also said that this time, He’d either get what he wanted or die in the line of duty. This remark is most important. It shows that he came to Lingnan with a resolution of dying. He wants to use his life, well, to test our intention for rebellion. This remark is a combination
of threat and negotiation. I have to emphasize I’m giving it all out now. There is no turning back. I’ll either succeed or perish. Guiyun. Did you hear that? It’s sparse in words,
yet piercing in meaning. This person is unfathomable. After listening to this yesterday, I was also shocked with chills. You had Zhao Xinmin wrapped around your finger! Perfect. Then, Mr. He, who do you think the person sent
by the Left Chancellor is? Li Shande. Right. But it’s such a big deal. You can’t make a conclusion simply by studying his words, can you? Guiyun. Let me ask you. In the whole Chang’an, who would least want me to get the Military Fish Tally? Naturally, it’s the Left Chancellor. Then if the Left Chancellor knows I sent someone to Chang’an to ask for the tally, what will he do? Of course, he’ll kill the person. So Pan Bao died. It was the Left Chancellor
who killed him. The Left Chancellor learned from Pan Bao that the Right Chancellor
would send someone to Lingnan to trade the Military Fish Tally. The moment you got to Lingnan, the Litchi Envoy was here. So I’m sure that the Litchi Envoy must be on the Left Chancellor’s side. Brilliant. Guiyun. You risked your life to tell us to think over and over about Li Shande’s words. You also hinted at us that Li Shande
had connections higher up. Mr. Zhao and I thought over it for a whole night to find out the shocking plot set by the Left Chancellor. Guiyun. Your kindness is appreciated. It’s all because of your clever calculation. It’s really impressive. However, Guiyun, I know clearly in my heart that this time, you can’t return to Chang’an without my letter of fealty. Otherwise, you won’t be able
to fulfill your errand. But now that Li Shande’s here, it would be dangerous for us to take a risk to trade like this. Mr. He, that’s not so complicated. Now is good timing. There are no outsiders in the Yamen.
[*The administrative office] I’ll give you the tally, and you can give me the letter. Then it’s done. It’s that simple! Wrong. Once I get the Right Chancellor’s
Military Fish Tally, I need to use it. With Li Shande here, how can I use it? That’s right. I’ve figured out a better way for you. Kill him directly. As long as he’s killed, we’ll trade right away. What do you think? Li Shande is an envoy appointed by His Majesty. It would be too hasty for you to do this, Mr. He. The Left Chancellor
always acts rigorously. If he is really behind this, there must be more than one pawn. Go on. If you really kill Li Shande, not only will it not solve the problem, but it will also alert the other side. If the hidden pawns
got the goods on you, your great cause would be compromised. Then what do you think I should do? Chasing Li Shande out of Lingnan is the best way. So what if he wouldn’t leave? I know him. He trusts me more than you. I’ll find a way to drive him out of Lingnan. You are as expected of someone who works for the Right Chancellor! You are both meticulous and thoughtful with the bigger picture in mind. Let’s make a deal. If you can drive Li Shande away, we’ll trade right away. If you can’t get him out, I’ll have to kill him. Why? Why? How did things come to this? What a pair of “masterminds”. If you call them shrewd, their calculations
took such unnecessary detours. But if you call them stupid, they can make up a complete story out of nothing. Qilang. Mr. Li is still waiting
at the courier station for the money from the Inspector. Later, how will we give him an explanation? Give him an explanation? Why should I do that? You can’t put all the blame on him. He said he was deceived by his peers, taking it as an errand
about simmered litchis. Then he should think about this. Why did his peers only cheat him? Why was he the only one deceived? Being like that, he’s always the one to be scammed, and he can only scheme against me. Why are you laughing? Is it because I’m stupid? That’s not it. It’s because I’m concerned about Xiu. As Xiu’s uncle, I’ll let it slide this time. That’s right. You have a pure mind of benevolence and righteousness, and thus you forgave him. So what to do now? Mr. Li just arrived here. He wouldn’t be willing to leave Lingnan. He must leave no matter what. I’ll elaborate on the crux of the situation for him. He must listen to me. Li Shande. You did it on purpose, right? You know I’ve been waiting for an explanation. Why are you avoiding it? Ge, the jar walls are thin. Handle gently. All of you may go. Li Shande, let me be straight with you. It was Mr. He who wanted to kill you. After Zhao Xinmin left that day, he pondered it. I don’t know how he presumed you worked for the Left Chancellor. He said your mission of transporting litchis had ulterior motives. I helped you! I felt sorry for Xiu, so I helped you out. Sir, he is telling the truth! That day, he tried very hard to get them to agree as long as you left Lingnan, they wouldn’t kill you. I am the Litchi Envoy
appointed by His Majesty! They could just kill me like that? There is no law? In Lingnan, his words are the law. Perfect. I will be executed if I go back now. I’ll be assassinated if I stay. I might as well use the water isolation method to fight for a sliver of hope. So you’re dead set on transporting litchis here? Not exactly dead set. But I’ve never been so determined. This has thin walls. It’s fragile but lightweight. Ma’am, Mr. Zheng requests to see you. You came just in time. I have a life-or-death matter
to discuss with you. I know. Li Shande’s going to get killed. With that stubborn, inflexible mule temper of his, trouble’s bound to happen
sooner or later. He brought it on himself. Let him fend for himself. Not him. He has nine lives. He’s safe for now. I’ll send a message to Zhao Xinmin, telling him Li Shande isn’t working
for the Left Chancellor. So he won’t have concerns. You said it was a life-or-death matter. Whose life are we talking about? Your life. You can’t save it. This is a good joke. How could it… Why so sudden? The Right Chancellor sent
a new envoy to Lingnan. As soon as he sees you, he will see through your identity. See through my identity? Fortunately, the journey is long. We still have time to maneuver. The new envoy left Chang’an over 20 days ago. So he should arrive soon. Stop him! I’ve already dispatched
masters of martial arts. They intercepted him
near the Xiang River. Unfortunately, he was also
highly skilled in martial arts. He escaped death several times. After that, he changed his route and concealed his tracks. I’ve arranged a team to ambush him at the essential passes into Lingnan. This is our last chance and your last chance of survival. You must seize this chance. Ensure nothing goes wrong. Don’t spare the troops or the money. Attack front and back,
strike left and right. He can not fight against a hundred men. Zheng Ping’an, the Left Chancellor
and the Jing’an Office asked the Konglang Agency
to aid you. We will do our utmost. If you want to live, you must get the letter of fealty and leave Lingnan tomorrow. Otherwise, once this new envoy sets foot in the Inspector’s Mansion, your head and your neck will part company. Let me see. What’s going on? Sir. This is strange. He was full of energy half a day ago. How did he collapse in half a day? Qilang went out. He came back and started burning up. Probably caught a chill. Nonsense! Can you catch a chill here? This is heatstroke. I know you’re worried about my life. You’re so worried
that you have a fever. If you stay away from me, I might feel better. You feel hot? Okay then. Get some air! Get rid of that quilt! This will cool you down. The quilt makes it worse. Gou, go pull up all the window curtains. Let the air flow. He’s having a fever. Here, move a bit. Come on. I understand. Though I don’t want to die, I’m not a coward. But we can’t let fear get the better of us just because we’re going to die, right? Feeling better? When I was little,
I had my fortune told. The fortune-teller said I would be snatched from the jaws of death. I won’t die. And I even have a gift. I can transfer this bad luck of mine onto someone else. Why are you laughing? You could either
wish me a quick recovery or just get out of here. I’m comforting you. Is this comforting? Transferring bad luck to someone else? Other people want to live too! Why are you so agitated? If the bad luck were to be transferred, you can’t blame me for that, right? You can only say this person was born under an unlucky star. That he’s unlucky and doomed to die at an early age. Who’s unlucky? Who’s doomed to die at an early age? Get out! Well, this doesn’t seem like a fever. You are possessed by a spirit. And you won’t listen to advice! Sir, just stop trying to comfort him. Fine, I’ll go buy him medicine. Take good care of him. Qilang, though Mr. Li is slow and insensitive, he cares about you. He’s been working on litchi experiments behind closed doors, forgetting food and sleep. Yet he specially goes to buy medicine for you. He is a good man. Gou. Coming. Come here. Qilang. You, get out too! [Inspector’s Mansion] Mr. He. Mr. Zhao, how did I phrase it last time? Recite it for me. I’ll test you. Test me? Recite it. Recite it. “A fine bird chooses its tree. A wise vassal chooses his master. To miss the chance of serving a worthy lord is no man’s way.” Actually… “I…” Actually, it could be shorter. Ma Guiyun, why the rush today? I can’t wait to go back. I hope to depart early. I ruined this. I’ll rewrite it. Zhao, recite it again. Slower. Got it. “A fine…” Bird. How to spell it? Chooses… Chooses. Chooses. Chooses. Chooses. Chooses. Its… Its… Though thousands of li apart… Kowtows in reverence, He Youguang. Paying respects… Skip it. It’s good enough. My calligraphy has improved. Graceful. Take it. Graceful. I’m exhausted. Done. Mr. He. Guiyun. Here you go. Report! Report! Report! Report! Report what? We’re busy. Mr. He. You are in such a hurry. Is it an emergency? No emergency is more important than our trade. Then I’ll have
the Right Chancellor’s envoy wait outside. The Right Chancellor’s envoy? The Right Chancellor sent an envoy. Didn’t you know? The Right Chancellor never mentioned it. Probably fake. Sugar is sweet, while salt is salty. Taste it, and you’ll know. Real or fake, bring him here and let me see. Mr. He, it’s inappropriate. Mr. He, the Right Chancellor’s subordinates are all capable, each with their duties. If he’s real, I shall not see him to avoid a conflict of interest. Better complete our trade first. Agreed? Mr. He, that Right Chancellor’s envoy can’t wait any longer. Let him wait anyway! Mr. He, there’s competition among colleagues too. It’s not fair for him to take half the credit for the mission I’m about to complete. I completely understand. The meat is already at your lips, yet he snatches half away. It’s so unfair. But how’s that my concern? Let’s go take a look. Aye. Guiyun, let’s go take a look. Let’s go see if he’s fake. A real one can’t be fake. Where is he? Almost here. Arriving soon. There he is. Hurry. Hurry. Malaria! Let me see. What’s malaria? You may not know, Lingnan is humid and has mosquitoes year-round. The envoy must’ve been bitten and got malaria. He rushed here without timely treatment… What then? Enough talk. Come and see if he’s your colleague. Gui… Guiyun… I’m Guiyun. I am Guiyun. You aren’t… I’m not leaving for a reason. I can’t return just yet. Dead. Dead? How could he be dead? Any message from the Right Chancellor? Liang! Liang! Liang! Speak! – Speak!
– Mr. He. This is the Right Chancellor’s
secret letter to me. You can’t read it. You want the Military Fish Tally or not? Yes. We want it. Of course, we do. Zhao. Guiyun. Guiyun. In that case, I’ll take my leave now. When we meet in Chang’an, the three of us will meet for wine. Meet for wine. Please bury my colleague properly. Qilang Straw sandals! Straw sandals! Hemp shoes! Straw sandals! Hemp shoes! Want a pair of straw sandals? How much? One coin. One coin? Here, Gou. My shoes are comfortable and durable. For me? Hurry. They suit you, try them on. Perfect fit! Thank you, Qilang. One coin? Yes. How’s your business? Not bad. What’s this? Roasted bamboo rat. Bamboo rat? Bamboo rat. Enjoy. My mood has been going up and down like Lingnan’s hills these days, never at peace. When Ma Guiyun was burned to death, I cursed the heaven for trapping me in this mess. Now at least fate guides me closer to the truth. I have only one goal now: to avenge my father. Your father deserves justice indeed. But with vengeance weighing on your heart, your former charm is gone. It pains me. Right now, I must complete this fake courtship mission. Though you frequented Chang’an banquets, you’ve never wooed women. How are you going to charm one? Your smile’s unattractive. You think I can’t charm women? I fear no love’s trials. I just avoid flirtations and carnal pleasure. Keep laughing, and I’ll slap you hard. Sure, you are charming, witty, and any woman’s delight. With a heroic rescue… would she be enchanted even more. I’ll beat you later. Qilang, how can you be charmed so easily? Lan Yu is merely beautiful. How can you be so weak-willed? Your mission is unfinished, but you’re touring mountains now? Her cheap tricks can’t fool me. I went with the flow. Mr. Zhao invited me to the banquet with motives. I couldn’t act rashly without knowing his motives. I couldn’t sever ties either. So I had to play along to figure out his true intent. Qilang, you’re a true hero! We’re feeling each other out. Every word gets a reply yet leads to nowhere. Our rhetoric leaves room for maneuver. Gou, you’re still too young. Appearances often deceive. Time will tell. It often takes several rounds to know the outcome. I fear your act may become real. You clearly enjoy this game. You probably are relishing the feeling of being admired. After all, being pursued is easier than pursuing others. Love holds profound mysteries. Feigned affection is false. True feelings arise from the heart. What do you know at your age? I may be young. But I’m no fool. You’ve gained more female companions here. Consultant Konglang acts
as a mentor and friend. She’s both graceful and wise. Amita stands bold and spirited. She’s as excellent as any man. Today another showed up. Delicate and charming, a tender beauty evoking affection. You’re blessed with romantic luck. You’ve grown more mature. Starting tomorrow, you don’t have to brush your teeth. Because today, I’m going to knock them out and rip out your tongue which spoke such nonsense. Where did you learn those expressions? Shameless, get lost! Gou. Are you happier in Chang’an or Lingnan? I am happy anywhere as long as I’m with you, Master. Say something new. Always so flattery. Do you know what I’m thinking right now? “I miss Chang’an.” You guessed wrong. Master. Didn’t Consultant Konglang say we should avoid the Konglang Bookstore unless she summoned us? We’re passing by, so it’s only natural to ask her about the progress. Master, this isn’t passing by. You are rushing straight to the bookstore. And if you only inquire of her about the progress, why did you buy a lady’s round fan? We can’t arrive empty-handed, can we? Courtesy demands, got it? I think it’s because you haven’t seen her for days, and you miss her. Gou, keep talking and I’ll rip your mouth open! My master’s mind holds vital matters. No room for romance. I deserve it. Gou, does this attire look dignified? Your glamour stands in sharp contrast to this mundane world! Come here. Mimic Zhao Xinmin again, I’ll end you. Quick! Master. Are we fleeing? Flee? Do I seem like a fugitive? I found Chai’s home. So we’re off to find her. I thought you feared Mr. Yu from Chang’an so you’re fleeing. Have I ever feared anyone? If I had, I’d have died long ago in Lingnan. Even if the Inspector’s men knock on my door now, I won’t fear. Go take a look. Who is it? It’s me. Mr. Zhao. Ping’an.
[*Safe and sound] Ping’an. I adore Chang’an’s greeting style. But we have a new way to greet now. “Who’s your…” “Who’s your daddy”! Why shut the door in this heat? I caught a chill. I have delicate health. Then you need to rest well. So why were you packing? Planning a trip? We’re off to climb mountains. It’s windier up there. I still have to do it. To pray to heaven for my recovery. What brings you here at this late hour? Not some urgent matter, I hope? If nothing urgent, let’s talk another day. Not me. Mr. He summons you. This way. Guiyun. My big brother! I see you glow with health and are radiant with success. How plump and prosperous! Take a seat. I drown sorrows every day. This plumpness isn’t fat, but my longing for the Right Chancellor His Excellency. You are always “longing for the Right Chancellor”. Now one of your fellow officials is in Lingnan. You haven’t visited him to learn about His Excellency’s
recent state? Right! Xinmin, do you mean Attendant Yu, from the Palace? Yes. I don’t like the sound of it. I’m a Court official, and he’s just a eunuch. How can we be fellow officials? Mr. Zhao! You ate so much sugarcane that it poked holes in your mouth? Stop the nonsense! Guiyun, forgive him. He means Mr. Yu was promoted by the Right Chancellor. You also served His Excellency closely. So you two, as his trusted followers, are supposed to be close. Hence his words. Silence! No more talking. Mr. He is right. Guiyun. I treat you as family. So I’ll speak frankly. Sure. I asked you to come because I need your help. Ever since Mr. Yu came to Lingnan, we’ve only exchanged glances. We didn’t even dine together. As the host, I failed my duty. So I am somewhat regretful. I wish you could mediate and arrange a meeting. Help me break the ice. I understand now. But I cannot help. I don’t know him. You don’t know him? No. The Right Chancellor holds many posts with dozens of silver tokens and hundreds of men under his command. I can’t know them all. I don’t know him. I’ve heard this before. It sounds familiar. When the Right Chancellor’s secret envoy was here last time, you said the same thing. Guiyun, don’t tell me after all these years serving him, you still don’t know anyone around him. Mr. He, I don’t like the sound of it, either. What’s a “secret envoy”? Enlighten me. Utmost secrecy is their basic trick for survival. If they came with fanfare and were welcomed
by local liaisons grandly, would they still be “secret” envoys? So what if I don’t know him? Guiyun. Calm your anger! So you don’t know him. It’s not an issue. So, Guiyun, you’ve been in Chang’an for years. You know official protocols best. Help me analyze something. Why does Mr. Yu avoid meetings and refuse visits after he arrived? What’s the meaning of his attitude? In Chang’an, connections require courtesy and gifts. Gifts were sent but rejected. That means they are too meager. Not all people are as easily contented as my master. You’re out of line! But he’s right. Think of it. Mr. Yu has seen all the luxuries in Chang’an. Mr. He, you must go all out. No problem. But what should I give him? What’s best in Lingnan? Southern Pearls. Sent. Rejected. Yeah! Rejected? Beautiful women! For whom? Won’t work for him. True. Beautiful women won’t work. He doesn’t like Southern Pearls, either. He came for litchis. Lingnan’s litchis will become famous throughout the whole Tang. Mr. He, select prime litchi orchards and gift him the deeds. He won’t refuse. Choose several. So you mean gold bars won’t do. Just send the gold mine? Sacrifice brings gain. My brother! Even if I go big and give him litchi orchard deeds, would he accept? If he refuses, remember his name: Gou.
[*Dog] If he refuses the deeds, treat my words as dog farts. Farewell. Uncle, where’s Father? He told us to wait here. Don’t worry. Xiu, this is for you. You can keep it to spend. Don’t let your father know. Hide it now. Master, Mr. Li is here! He’s here. Go on. Father! Xiu, Xiu! Father! Xiu. Let me look at you. Good, good. Ping’an. Were the litchis delivered? They were, but… Don’t… Don’t worry about that. Come on, let’s leave here now. Where to? To Lingnan. I’m waiting for a result. Seriously, now? What result? Come with me! The result is very important to me. You go first. Xiu, listen to your father in Lingnan. I have many friends there. I’ll show you around there. You go. Go. Go. Now. Then take care. Go on. Don’t worry. Take care, Ping’an. I know. Go on. Come find us! Stay safe! Where has he run off to? His house is empty. I’m afraid my identity has been exposed. Let’s find a place to hide. Where to? Li Shande’s old house. Move quickly. Not at the embroidery workshop. Not at home either! Where could he have gone with his daughter? Sir! We’ve searched everywhere around.
No trace. Useless! We’ve got some news! Someone saw Li Shande leaving the Qixia Gate
with his daughter and heading out of the city! Say that again. Li Shande was spotted heading out of the city. Mr. Yu said we must kill Li Shande. With a child in tow, he won’t get far. After them! Excuse me, sir. Who did you say you’re looking for? None of your concern. Is it Li Shande? I’m also looking for him. He borrowed twenty guan from me. But he vanished without a trace. I’ve been hunting him for days. Have you found him? Who are you? I’m his brother-in-law. He really did borrow money from me. Look. It was really twenty guan. Look. Master. Master. What’s wrong? You’re injured. Master. Don’t be afraid. No one can harm Xiu now. Let’s get you to a physician. Too late. I can’t escape this. Save him! Please, save him! Master. Save… Save him. Gou. Please save… Go to Lingnan and find Li Shande. He’ll take good care of you. I don’t want to! Don’t leave me! Save him. Luotuo. I’m here. Tell the young lady I was delayed. I’ve broken my promise. I won’t be able to drink
with her anymore. How it grieves me. Master. Mr. Zheng. Master. Master! Mr. Zheng. Master! Master! Master! Master. Why are you here? You were heading east and almost escaped this calamity. Why did you turn back? Master! Master! I forgot. Did you ever mention that? All I recall is the alternation of day and night. I even thought you were going to turn me into a fish. Gou! Master. You silly boy! Why are you here? What are you doing here? Master, I feared no one would serve you in heavens. I’ll beat you up! What are you doing?