TV Version | Li Shande was driven crazy by his unscrupulous colleagues! | The Litchi Road
You don’t give me money? Listen up, in the future, every “no” I hear from you means you’re hindering the Litchi Envoy
from official business! All of you’ll have to die! Die with me! [Office of Imperial Parks] [Mr. Liu,
Director of Imperial Parks] Mr. Liu. Mr. Liu. Mr. Liu? This… This is absurd! – Litchi?
– Litchi! This… This task… It’s a death sentence
for whoever takes it. Watch your words. This order has passed through the Inner Court and now lands on us. There’s no one left to pass it to. Transporting fresh litchis
from Lingnan to Chang’an. Even if it’s a death warrant, someone must accept it. You. Yes, you. Sir, you know me too well. I excel at managing personnel, not tending to plants. I can’t even keep a willow alive. How could I shoulder
such a responsibility? You. You. Sir. Sir! Sir, though I handle procurement well, I have urgent matters at hand. Have you forgotten? With your official duties so demanding, you entrusted all household affairs to me. I must stay to share your burdens! Hey, you. Sir, I’m tasked with escorting citrus from Shu Region for His Majesty. About this litchi matter, I fear my hands are tied. Sir, though my brother serves
in the Ministry of Personnel, he often warns me not to abuse connections. This is such an important duty. I won’t compete for it. I won’t compete. Sir, I’ve had a lifelong aversion
to damp heat. Just one day in the south leaves me covered in rashes. It’s not the hardship I fear, but jeopardizing His Majesty’s affairs. I absolutely cannot. Absolutely cannot. – Mr. Liu.
– Mr. Liu. – Mr. Liu.
– Mr. Liu. You all refuse. Must I go myself? – We wouldn’t dare.
– We wouldn’t dare. Sir, look, someone is missing here today. – Yes.
– Right! Li Shande? Sir. Gou. Is your master awake? He is. Please wait. [Sun Rises Anew] Ping’an. Ping’an. Ping’an. Are you a rooster or what? Crowing at my door at this ungodly hour? You flit about like a bird. Gone without a trace. No sleep, no homecoming. Xiu. Come over here. Uncle. Xiu, you’re here. Have you eaten breakfast? No. Not yet? Then… She just said she’s hungry. Go. Go buy some flatbread. Go now. Thank you, Uncle. Don’t wander too far! You’re the best. Come on. [Zheng Ping’an,
Assistant Minister of Banquets] Did you see the house? I did. Does it matter if I saw it? Why would I need to see my own house? Your own house? That was bought with my sister’s dowry! To pay for her medicine, the house was pawned. And still, her life couldn’t be saved. These years have been tough on Xiu, following you around and constantly renting places to live. Now someone’s willing to sell. Just buy it back. Yes, yes. I’m not refusing. What’s the final price? The middleman didn’t know it was my old house, so I listed every flaw. Look at these beams. Full of wormholes. Patched with lime and coated with lacquer. See this beam? A later addition. Broken. And the middleman panicked. Finally settled at 300 guan. Just the same as when I pawned it. Then don’t hesitate. Not only will it fulfill your wish, but it’ll appreciate in value. Opportunity knocks but once. If you put it that way, I should act fast. But… I’m a bit short on money. How much more do you need? I have 130 guan. Total’s 300 guan. You have 130 guan? Get out. Ping’an. Ping’an. You call that “a bit short”? You’re flat broke! Li Shande, you’ve been an official in Chang’an
for over a decade. No promotions, no savings. All you do is fuss over plants. Do flowers grow silver? You need to swallow your pride
and flatter your superiors. Drink with colleagues. Only then can you… Whatever. I don’t play those games. Mr. He. Mr. Pang. How thoughtful of you. What’s that supposed to mean? If you despise me, don’t come to me. Even if I groveled, I couldn’t scrape together the money overnight. Ah, forget it. Come back. I told you, opportunity knocks but once. Understood. Fine. Go to Pingkang Ward and seek out Madame Shiqi. I’ll be your guarantor. Borrow from her. With you as guarantor. Perfect. The house costs 300 guan. Market rates mean she’ll lend me a 150 guan. I’d still be 20 guan short. Borrow from relatives or friends. Xiu’s and my relatives… You know. I act as guarantor for your loan, yet the house ends up yours. How do all the good things fall to you, Li Shande? Does my family owe you? If not for my sister’s fallen fortunes, she’d never have married you. Look, Xiu’s back. You’re back. I’m back. Is it good, Xiu? Delicious. You had one too? Xiu, take it. Take it. Have more then. Yes. See how kind your uncle is. Well… For Xiu’s sake. Thank you, Ping’an. Thanks, Ping’an. Well, I prepared loan notes. Two copies. Keep yours. Alright. We’ll leave. Say goodbye to Uncle. Goodbye, Uncle. Goodbye. You go inside. [Borrower: Li Shande] When did he write this? How did he know I’d lend to him? Li Shande! Though he’s not sociable, he’s a capable worker. [Fifteen guan] [Eight guan] Li Shande saved those plants, but he also killed our future procurement excuses. He’s turned the Imperial Parks – into stagnant water.
– into stagnant water. Mr. Liu, consider this. Without him, no one does his work. But without him, we’d also have less work. [Twelve guan] Four, five. Four. Twenty. At last, the money’s ready. [In memory of my late wife,]
Xiu and I [Zheng Jinniang from Xingyang]
can return home. The osmanthus tree you planted
in the courtyard has withered. But it’s alright. I’ll plant another one. By the eighth month, the scent will fill the air again. I’ll tend it myself. Just as you’ve watched over us, we’ll now watch over you everyday. Let’s go. Buying a house? That miser pinches every coin, always whining about being broke. Yet that loser reaps rewards. Now he can afford a house? Give it to me. His Majesty has issued a decree. – Aye.
– Aye. This is our honor. We must attach great importance to this to repay the imperial favor. We should select
the most capable candidate. Gentlemen, any nominations? – I
– I – nominate someone!
– nominate someone! – Mr. Li.
– Mr. Li. – Mr. Li.
– Mr. Li. [Office of Imperial Parks] He’s here. Here he comes. Mr. Li. Liangyuan. Come on. I need to talk to you. Come on. Come here. Come on. Join us. No, thanks. I need to fetch my child from school. – Come on.
– Come on. Eat. Come on, Mr. Li. Come here. Come on. No, I… Come on. I need to cook for my child. Come on. I need to talk to you. Have a seat, Mr. Li. I… May I sit here? Sit. Eat. Have a seat. Thank you, sir. Come on. A toast first. Alright. Come on. Here we go. I… Liangyuan, eat. We’ll discuss matters over the meal. Eat. Come on. Try some. How’s is taste? Silken. Come on. Mr. Li, you’ve always been studious. Enlighten us. Tell us about litchis. The litchi is a kind of fruit with vermilion scaly skin, pulp like congealed cream. It’s native to Lingnan, though also found in Shu Region. Ripens fully by the fifth month. Its flavor is said to be peerless. Yet it’s perishable and hard to preserve. They say its color fades in a day,
scent in two, and flavor in three. I’ve never tasted one. As expected of Liangyuan,
you are knowledgeable. – Come on.
– Come on. Here we go. Liangyuan, then is there no way to taste fresh litchis in Chang’an? Emperor Wu of Han once built a Fuli Palace. It housed exotic flora, including litchi trees. But the north-south climate gap proved insurmountable. The litchi trees didn’t survive. But what if someone really craves litchis? Simple. Take the pulp, soak it in honey, and make it into dried fruit. It’s called litchi decoction. But it pales beside the fresh litchi. Better than nothing. Better than nothing. Brilliant! – Brilliant!
– Brilliant! Liangyuan, as expected of you. Truly knowledgeable. – Exactly.
– Exactly. Liangyuan, fortune smiles upon you today. A task has fallen to us. All unanimously recommended you. I was a bit worried at first. But after your discourse, I know this task is tailor-made for you. What task? Nothing much. The Inner Court seeks to procure litchi… Decoction. This task can only be handled by you. Can only be handled by me? In your absence, we deliberated. Your prudence makes you ideal. Exactly. Look, His Majesty often assigns some errands on short notice. Though such posts lack official rank, serving His Majesty commands instant obedience below. The rewards are beyond measure. Li, I heard you’ve bought a house. Excel in this, and the rewards will clear your debts. – Congratulations.
– Congratulations. – Come on.
– Come on. – Congratulations.
– Congratulations. Then you all truly appoint me the Litchi Envoy? His Majesty awaits recommendations. Very well. Finish this cup, and I’ll recommend you noe. You can really hold your liquor. Well, fetch brush and ink. Aye. By imperial decree, Supervisor Li Shande has been jointly recommended and appointed as the overseer. Excellent. Here. Come on. [Li Shande, Litchi Envoy] Transcribe three copies, each bearing the seal of the Imperial Parks, for the Court of the National Granaries, Ministry of Personnel and the Censorate to be recorded. Aye. Congratulations, Mr. Li. From this moment, Li Shande is the Litchi Envoy designated by His Majesty. Good. Come on. – Congratulations, Mr. Li.
– Congratulations, Mr. Li. Congratulations. – Congratulations.
– Congratulations. Mr. Zheng. Mr. Lin. This fine wine belongs to this room. I’ll join you shortly. Shortly. Shortly. Let’s see who’s in this room. Me. The Assistant Minister of Banquets. Go ask around. Is there any room in all of Chang’an I cannot enter? You’ve come to the wrong place. Not here. Not here? Next door. I really did take a wrong turn. – Stick, stick, tiger.
– Stick, stick, tiger. Liangyuan. – Stick, stick, worm.
– Stick, stick, worm. You can leave work early today. You live in Changshou Ward. It’s far. But everyone’s staying. Is that proper for me to leave? Go ahead, Liangyuan. You’re now the Litchi Envoy. You must attend
to His Majesty’s business. Matters here can wait. Here. I took advantage of this opportunity. You’re really giving it to me? The signature is signed, and the seal is stamped. What more do you doubt? Hurry and get ready to leave. You still have to fetch your daughter. Aye. Aye. – Aye.
– Aye. Remember. You have one task only. Find out whether there’s anyone trading Military Fish Tally
for Lingnan in that room. Once verified, signal immediately
with “fish” as the code. Aye. Mr. Lu, I fear nothing… I’ve trained in martial arts
since childhood. Come rescue me by then. Sir, have you reviewed inventory list Mr. He prepared for the Right Chancellor? Without error. The ward gate is closing. Hurry. Be careful. Be careful. Do enjoy life
while in prime you run high. Not to the moon just your empty cup ply. [Ma Guiyun]
We can’t give you what you’re asking for. [Pan Bao] The Right Chancellor said the Military Fish Tally
is of utmost importance. He sent me personally to Lingnan to deliver it to Mr. He. No intermediaries. I am Mr. He’s trusted man. Doesn’t the Right Chancellor trust us? I, Ma Guiyun, am the Right Chancellor’s confidant. Does Mr. He doubt me? [Decocted] [Fresh Litchi] Sir, are you alright? Help me read this. This… This is “fresh”, right? I… He can actually run that fast. Mr. Ma, when will you depart? Tonight. The Right Chancellor’s orders. I dare not delay. A pity I still have business
in Chang’an. I cannot accompany you. No need for such courtesy. No escort required. But there is one thing you must remember. Only the Right Chancellor himself knows about my trip to Lingnan this time. Make way! Step aside! Make way! Who are you? Here, a token. Take it. Mr. He will recognize it at once. Sir! – Sir!
– Sir! What’s the matter? – Sir!
– Sir! What are you doing? Sir. Sir, save me. Sir, save me! Save me, sir. Have you lost your mind? The amendment slip on this document fell off. I beg you to reseal it. Such a trivial matter. Was this worth panicking over? Look, the original “fresh” was amended to “decoction”. But this slip somehow fell off. It must be reattached. This is an imperial decree. It needs your official seal. Otherwise, it would amount to tampering
with the imperial will. Amendment slip? I don’t recall any amendment slip when I issued the decree to you. Did you add it yourself? How would I dare? This… As you just said, the amendment slip requires an official seal to verify its legitimacy. Then where is the seal imprint on the detached slip? Right. Is there one? This… Sir, I beg your wise judgment! Just now while drinking, didn’t you say the Inner Court wanted litchi decoction? Litchi decoction? Are you drunk? The palace has cartloads of that stuff. Would they need us to provide it? Tell me, did I ever mention litchi decoction during the meal? – No.
– No. – Never mentioned.
– Not once. Mr. Liu said litchi. – Yes.
– Yes. Litchi. Litchi decoction was your idea. Litchi… Decoction, right? The decree states clearly. You are appointed Litchi Envoy to procure fresh litchis for the palace. Don’t misread it. Fresh litchis? Sir. You know the nature of litchis. Color fades in a day, scent in two, and flavor in three. No matter where they’re shipped from, they’d never reach Chang’an in time! Mr. Li, that’s why you need to put more effort into this. His Majesty is waiting. Read carefully. The decree is explicit. His Majesty demands litchis from Lingnan. Sir! Sir. Sir! Lingnan? Lingnan is five thousand li
from Chang’an! Not even the gods
could deliver them in time! Sir. Let’s leave work. – Leave work.- Leave work. I have an old ailment. I shouldn’t drink. I won’t join you today. Mr. Ma, may you have a smooth journey to Lingnan. Aye. The ward gate is already closed. Where are you going? Open the archives! [The Archive
of Court of the National Granaries] I need to see the archived copy
of a decree! What are you doing? Eavesdropping. Come inside and listen! [Imperial edict of dispatch
of the Litchi Envoy] [on the 3rd day of the 2nd month,
the 13th year of Tianbao] Someone! Fish! Fish! [Fresh Litchis] What are you doing? Qilang. 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. Mr. Li. What brings you here? Some from the Office of Imperial Parks are already here, aren’t they? The Office of Imperial Parks? Wait, I have something else. Is the attendant named Yu Cheng’en inside? Yes. Mr. Yu is in the greenhouse. Thank you. Mr. Yu. I’m Li Shande
from the Office of Imperial Parks. Greetings, Mr. Yu. [Imperial Attendant, Yu Cheng’en]
The Office of Imperial Parks? Are you also here
to help plant trees? Yes. Then tell me what kind of tree this is. I… This is a special tree,
the Black Bone Tea from Lingnan. It’s also called ebony. It’s a perfect potted plant. When planting it, it’s suitable to make it
extremely wet or dry. That’s good. This is a tribute to His Majesty by the Inspector of Gaozhou. When transplanting it, according to the regulations, there has to be someone from the palace. That’s why I made an appointment with an envoy from Lingnan today. If you’re acquainted with these trees, it couldn’t be better. Yes. Mr. Yu. Actually, I came here today to inquire you about something. I heard that days ago, you took an order from His Majesty, which said that His Majesty wants fresh litchis. Why do you ask this? Since I’m from the Office
of Imperial Parks, I take care of fruits, too. Actually, I took over the errand of the litchis. I’d like to know better
about the whole matter, so I’ll be able to do it properly. So you’re the unlucky Litchi Envoy. In fact, the matter is not complicated. It’s just that His Majesty
wants fresh litchis, and thus he ordered a Litchi Envoy to buy some. That’s all. Does His Majesty really want to eat fresh litchis, instead of simmered litchis with honey? There are enough simmered litchis
in the palace. There’s no need to send you,
a Litchi Envoy to buy more. But… But fresh litchis can’t last more than three days before they get rotten. Did no one remind His Majesty? Words from His Majesty
are divine law. We can only obey what His Majesty says as subordinates. As for reminding His Majesty, do you think you are wiser than His Majesty? I dare not. If His Majesty wants fresh litchis, just give him fresh litchis. As for whether they can be delivered, it’s a matter you should deal with. But they can’t be delivered indeed. This is tougher
than Xuanzang’s journey to India for Buddhist scriptures! If you can’t deliver the litchis, you can only atone with your death. I’m not being sarcastic here. I’m just talking about facts. If you die, this errand will be over naturally. So goes the way of the world. Pan Bao. 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! How did he go down again? I actually pulled him up just now. You are already about to die. Why bother saving someone else? ♪Unharmed by seasons’ change♪ ♪Stay safe and sound♪ Gou, you are here. Madam Wang, morning. Morning. You are here. Gou. Sir. Qilang asked to keep it in your place
for the time being. I was planning to come to him. I have to take a long trip. Xiu might need to stay at her uncle’s house
for a while. Qilang is also going on a long trip. I don’t know when he’ll be back. Goodbye. Gou… Wait. Where is he going? When will he be back? I have no idea. I’ll take my leave. Gou! Gou, come back. Sir. If Ping’an comes back first, do let him pick up Xiu at the embroidery workshop. Got it. Don’t forget it. Okay. Don’t forget it! Alright! Father, don’t forget to pick me up. I won’t. Sir. Mr. Li. Congratulations. Good fortune continues. Look at you. You became the Litchi Envoy right after buying a house. You are so well-informed. Madame Shiqi heard that you’re leaving and asked me to come over to keep up with our business. Please figure out how you can lose fewer merits and collect more blessings. I am the Litchi Envoy
appointed by His Majesty, carrying a royal errand. I’m about to go to the south and won’t return until the sixth month. When I come back by then, I’ll pay the money back. I see what you mean. In other words, the merits and blessings have not yet come,
but they will surely come, right? That’s what I mean. But the first day of the sixth month was said by His Majesty, instead of me. I understand. I didn’t say that. I’m clear. It seems Madame Shiqi can only keep the blessings with the property deed. Alright. Please give me your property deed. I can’t give it to you. I’ll definitely return my debt in the sixth month. Madame Shiqi sent me here to tell you this today. Your daughter is studying here. You’d better collect more blessings and good connections. You are a servant. Mind your words! I’m telling you. If you dare lay your finger on my daughter, I’ll let you suffer! For the money, I’ll go to Pingkang Ward and pay you back. But if you block me here, you are preventing me from doing the errand by His Majesty! You’ll get killed! Killed! Your whole clan will be slaughtered! The whole clan, understand? We’d better leave this place. Are you going to stay here? Are you going to stay? Let’s go. Aye. Aye. Aye. Mr. Liu. No more noodles. Why are you here? Aye. I’d like to… Get to the point. I’m busy here. I’d like to apply for some money advance from you. What money? Your pay for the last month has long been sent. It’s not the pay. Well, I’m the Litchi Envoy. The overhead will be significant all the way to Lingnan. The money should be disbursed
from the common coffers. Why don’t you come to the one who sent you the order? Go. Don’t get in the way of my work. Mr. Liu. You asked me to take this errand. You can’t leave it alone. Nonsense! You signed it yourself. I didn’t force you to do that. You knew well I have a little daughter and I just borrowed money
to buy a house. But you are so ruthless. You’ve got to leave me a way. Even for human nature, you must give me a chance. You are even talking more nonsense. His Majesty appointed you
as the Litchi Envoy, so you should just do it. But why are you making a scene here? As the Litchi Envoy,
I have to deliver Litchis! I need funding
from the Office of Imperial Parks. Will you give me or not? The Office of Imperial Parks
is in charge of the imperial gardens. Why are you begging me now? So you take the royal errand
as begging? I… I didn’t! I mean… this expense has nothing to do with our office. You know clearly that the litchis can’t be delivered. I’ll be killed either way. Do you want me to die alone or you want to die all together? No… What do you mean…? That’s nonsense. The Litchis can’t be delivered because the Office of Imperial Parks
obstructs it on purpose! It’s you who takes revenge for a personal grudge! It’s all of you who don’t recognize me
as the Litchi Envoy! You feel nothing
about His Majesty’s affection. You hold a grudge
against the Noble Consort! That’s slander! You deliberately avoid Her Highness from having Litchis! What a slander! Slander? You… You! Last year, you stole 20 koi carps from Xingqing Palace, and replaced them with crucian carps, didn’t you? I… I didn’t! You! You let the nobles in the capital hunt in the royal woods
without permission, so you could get benefits, didn’t you? Am I wrong? You wronged me! You wronged me! Don’t go! And you. You sold five pots of orchids from Xingqing Palace last year for your own benefit, and in the end, they all withered. Did you do that? You… All of you did every filthy deed to benefit yourselves, and now you’re telling me
you don’t have money? You are bullying an honest man like me. I’m telling you, desperate times call for desperate measures! Today I’m giving it all out. You don’t give me money? Listen up, in the future, every “no” I hear from you means you’re hindering the Litchi Envoy
from official business! All of you’ll have to die! Die with me! Human nature. That’s human nature! Human nature. Shut up! Human nature. Listen up! Before the first day of the sixth month, all of you have to listen to me! I am the Litchi Envoy
appointed by His Majesty! All right. The Chief of the Alley is watching. Father. Don’t forget our deal. When the osmanthus blossoms, you must come back. I won’t forget. All right. I embroidered this. Father, bring this with you, so it feels like I’m by your side. Alright. I will go and come back early. Be obedient. Xiu. Come on. Osmanthus only blossoms
in the eighth month. But as I remember,
the birthday of Her Highness should be in the sixth month. Why did you lie to Xiu that you won’t be back until autumn? I don’t know
if I can survive this journey. I don’t want her to lose hope so early. Actually, the osmanthus tree
in my old house withered long ago. It’s a tough journey to Lingnan. Liangyuan. Take care. We’ve been confidants all this time. Now, I bid you farewell. And I don’t know if we’ll ever meet again. Aye. Far in the past, that day we left home. We’ve outgrown the gibes
of fellow recruits. Not that loved ones are forgotten,
our flesh and blood, but a man never knows when he must die. We race our horses,
slipping the bit from their mouths, green reins slack in our hands. Galloping down ten-thousand-yard slopes, hunched in the saddle, we practice
how to seize the enemy flags. Not that loved ones are forgotten,
our flesh and blood, but a man never knows when he must die. Since there is no turning back, why not just move forward and fight to the death? [Shangzhou, Chang’an] Even a good horse died from exhaustion. Gosh. How to deliver the litchis? How? Sir, is this the way
to the Inspector’s Mansion? [Imperial Edict of Dispatch
of the Litchi Envoy] [on the 3rd Day of the 2nd Month,
the 13th Year of Tianbao] [Inspector’s Mansion] Stop. Who are you? I am the Litchi Envoy,
appointed by an imperial edict. I seek an audience with Mr. He. Zhao, what was that last envoy called again? The Coconut Envoy. Right, the Coconut Envoy. He swindled us blind, didn’t he? So this one’s…? I… I’m the Litchi Envoy. Litchi Envoy? What kind of post is that? By His Majesty’s edict, I’m tasked with procuring fresh litchis. The appointment order
specifies everything. Mr. He, I’ll require your full logistical support. Well now. Not bad. Quite convincing. Feel this texture. Not bad. This swindler actually put in effort. I’m… I’m no swindler! Here’s my waist token
of the Office of Imperial Parks. If you can forge this, you’d forge that too! No! I’m no swindler! You can verify with the Court. The Court of the National Granaries
and the Office of Imperial Parks both have documentation. See. Brilliant suggestion. It’s over five thousand li from here to Chang’an. I’ll dispatch a courier tonight. With bureaucratic delays, perhaps a month for confirmation? Come back then. A month won’t do! I must deliver fresh litchis to Chang’an by the first day of the sixth month! Deliver them to Chang’an? You can’t even lie competently! Make him kneel. I… Wait. Let me educate you. I really despise people like you. Is swindling so effortless these days? I’m no swindler! You are! I’m no swindler. The bar for scammers isn’t this low. You must strive. Put in effort. My doors are open to all swindlers. But I refuse to be treated like a fool! Come on. Drown him in the river. Take him away. Sir. Wait. Sir, I’m no swindler. What are you doing? What are you doing? Sir! Sir. What are you doing? Mr. He. Let me finish. I’m not finished yet. I’m no swindler. You rascal! Facing death
and still lying through your teeth! You swindler! I’m no swindler! I’m truly here on official business under the imperial edict from Chang’an. What imperial edict
and official business? What fool would conceive such a thing more foolish
than a fool’s wildest dreams? Well, His Majesty. His… No. Hear that? All of you, hear that? How dare you! I’m telling you. Forget drowning. Beat him to death here! No. Wait, wait! Wait. I… Well… Sir, His Majesty’s temperament has changed. These past years, he’s demanded countless strange tributes from Lingnan. Who’s to say fresh litchis aren’t next? It’s hard to say. Give me back my sugarcane! Let me think. Delivering fresh litchis
to Chang’an from thousands of li away. It’s already absurd. And you’ve no proof to convince me. What can I do? I’ll still feed you to the fish. Take him away! I know Pan Bao. You sent Pan Bao to Chang’an, right? Pretty-faced? Looks like a maiden? How… How would you know Pan Bao? Not exactly know. More like crossed paths. He drowned in Chang’an. Drowned? How? Wasn’t Pan Bao delivering that rare Black Bone Tea tree to His Majesty? Yes. That was my offering to His Majesty. What’s that to do with Pan Bao’s death? He went to Leyou Garden
to plant tea trees. Then, he got drunk by the Ningbi Pool and drowned. I pulled him out. Then I went for help. When I returned, he fell into the water again. Drunk? How did you know he was drunk? There was a wine bottle left beside the pool. A wine bottle? So you never saw him drink? No. Now will you believe me? My imperial edict circulated among Lingnan’s tribute envoys. Just ask around and you’ll know. Lingnan’s tribute envoys? Come here. I’m telling you the truth. The edict’s authenticity matters not. If forged, I’ll drown you. If genuine, I can’t deliver the litchis to Chang’an. So I’ll still have you killed. True. I experienced the hardships of the journey along the way. It’s impossible to deliver the litchis to Chang’an. But if I go back, I’ll be punished. Dying here could be considered as dying in the service of His Majesty. And my family won’t be implicated. So… Well… Kill me. Sir, may we speak privately? Pan Bao’s death is grave news. Yet Ma Guiyun never mentioned it to me. Either he departed before the incident or he’s hiding something. In any case, we can’t hastily… Give me some water, please. submit the letter of fealty. What envoy were you again? The Litchi Envoy. Ah yes. Here’s the situation. Your claim requires further verification. This will take time. You may go. Up yours. Hands off my litchis! To hell with you. Don’t move! Put it down. Come on then. Stop pushing me! Don’t push me! Stop! Th-that’s enough. If I were you, I’d leave now. Who are you? Tang Dynasty’s laws stipulate that those who brawl and assault others shall receive 40 lashes. For damaging property, the punishment varies with the value, and compensation is double. If you five strike, that’s two hundred lashes. For property damage,
it’s 300 strokes of the cane. Miss, how much are these litchis worth? Ten… [Tong] Fifteen wen per jin. A basket holds over 40 jin. Fifteen wen per jin. Forty jin per basket. Two baskets make 80 jin. That totals one guan and 200 wen. Double restitution means two guan and 400 wen. Split five ways, each of you owes 480 wen. Well, the math is clear. Think it over. Thank you. Are these litchis freshly picked? Just picked. So fresh. But aren’t litchis only ripe in the fourth month? These are an early variety, March Red litchis. How do they taste? Not good. Too sour. We mostly brew them into wine. That’s why they’re cheap. Do these litchis also spoil in three days? But we Dong people have a way to keep them fresh longer. What’s the secret? Just don’t pick them! Well. Weigh me some of these. I helped you just now. Can I get a discount? You don’t need to pay. I don’t like owing favors. Thank you for helping me. Then… Just a few will do. They’ve already begun to suspect me. Then it seems I won’t get that letter anytime soon. What do we do now? It’s alright. We wait and observe. Where did this Litchi Envoy come from? Ruining everything. Li Shande. Did you see that? Was it him? Qilang, have you had too much to drink? Mr. Zhao. What brings you here? The gatekeeper said you were here. I brought you some fresh litchis to try. Come on. I’m from Lingnan. I don’t need fresh litchis. You grew up eating them. But His Majesty in Chang’an never has. Your business can wait until tomorrow. Alright? I’m hosting a friend tonight. Go back and wait. Alright? I can’t go back. I have nowhere to stay. Let me wait here until you’re done. No. I… I have nowhere to stay. Guiyun. No. Well… Ping’an? Yeah, safely.
[*”Ping’an” means “safe” in Chinese] I made it to Lingnan without a hitch. Why are you here too? Well… It’s a long story. Before I left, I went to see you. Now… Ping’an, you… Safe for you, safe for me. Safety is what matters most. Never thought I’d meet an old friend
so far from home. Mr. Zhao and I have urgent matters to discuss. A night-long conversation. You should head back. We’ll talk another day. Go back and wait. Mr. Zhao. Ping’an. So that’s how people greet each other in Chang’an now? Chang’an sets all the trends. It is just one way to greet people. There are also “Fu’an” and “Lu’an”.
[*Happiness and blessings] All common greetings. You know that man earlier? What does he do? Well, his name is Li Shande. He’s a supervisor
from the Office of Imperial Parks. Perhaps he was sent to Lingnan by His Majesty. There are too many swindlers these days. We’ve all been severely scammed. There are also a lot in Chang’an. Really? Even someone like you gets tricked? Last month, a distant relative scammed me out of 20 guan. Let’s not talk about that. Let’s drink. Drink. – Let’s drink.
– Come on. Ouch! It hurts! My apologies, sir. Come with me now. Wait, what are you doing here? We’ll talk later. Where to? I have nowhere to stay. I’m waiting for Mr. Zhao to arrange lodging. You can stay at our courier station. No need to trouble Mr. Zhao. I can handle it. But… You haven’t eaten, have you? Let’s go. You’re here. Mr. Ma, you’re back. Sir, eating so fast will give you indigestion. Qilang. Ping’an. Li Shande. Get in here. Li Shande. My legs are numb. When did you become the Litchi Envoy? Before you left Chang’an, I was set up and forced to take on this cursed task. Where’s Xiu? I meant to entrust her to you. But then you left too. So I had to leave her
at the embroidery workshop. The… The embroidery workshop? You’ve outdone yourself, Li Shande. You’re really something else. Truly. Why did you have to mention Pan Bao in Lingnan? If I hadn’t, He Youguang wouldn’t have believed me. He… He even threatened to throw me into the river to feed the catfish. You met He Youguang? Yes. I should be asking you. What are you doing here in Lingnan? None of that matters now. Just remember this. I’m no longer Zheng Ping’an. I’m Ma Guiyun. Ma what? Ma Guiyun. Ma… Who is Ma Guiyun? Me. Aren’t you Zheng Ping’an? I am Ma Guiyun! This is serious. If it’s serious, you should’ve consulted me first! Wait, Ping’an, even if the Zheng clan cast you out, why would you come to Lingnan and take the surname Ma? What? Are they some prominent family here? You’ve got a matrilocal marriage? No, listen, your sister is gone. I have to look after you in her stead. Shut your mouth. How dare you mention my sister? Because of you, my sister lost her life. Xiu was left in your care, and now we don’t even know if she’s alive or dead. And you followed me all the way here. Do you want to wipe out
the entire Zheng line? Is that it? No. You want every last Zheng dead, don’t you? You… You jinx. That hurts. Shouldn’t I? Why hurt me like this? From now on, you go your way, and I’ll go mine. Get out. But… Why the name Ma Guiyun? Get out! Just remember the name. And you should fear me. Why should I fear you? Tremble at the sight of me. Why would I ever fear you? Leave. Get out. Out. What is wrong with you? Please. Get out. 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. [Inspector’s Mansion] Did Mr. He get up? Mr. Li. You are early today. Mr. He hasn’t come back yet. Why don’t you wait for a while? This one looks good. It’s pretty. Mr. He. Mr. He. Marvelous! Mr. He. What’s the matter? In the second month, the Inner Court did issue a blank document, asking for fresh litchis. This document was once passed to the tribute envoy in Lingnan. They dared not handle it
without authorization. So they transferred it
to the Court of the National Granaries. In that case, the order to deliver litchis is true? And we even have to help that envoy? No… We can’t help him or get involved. Fresh litchis can never be delivered to Chang’an. That’s right. Whoever handles it should be responsible. I think the Litchi Envoy also knows this errand can’t be fulfilled. He traveled all the way to Lingnan just in order to rake in money. It’s easy then. Give him some money and tell him to go away. No, no money for him. Once you give him money, you’ll be implicated in the future. Then… Either way won’t do. So what do you advise? Be nice to him, but don’t offer him any actual help. Right? Let’s stay out of it and leave him to his own devices. Smart. That’s what I thought! Mr. He, how wise you are! I am indeed wise. But here’s the thing. You are so weak. Right? You are so scared by him. Do you really think I’ll get into the mess? I’ll get involved in such a nasty trivia? Nonsense. Of course not. Come on. Tonight, let’s eat Qingyuan chicken! [Inspector’s Mansion] Mr. Li. The tribute envoy in Lingnan has confirmed your official identity. Now that my identity has been confirmed, my errand to deliver fresh litchis… Mr. Li. Do you know where Mr. He went? In Lingnan, we offer plenty of tributes to Chang’an every year. There are pearls, spices and special flowers and plants. It’s such a heavy burden. It requires a large expense along the way. Mr. He can only lower his pride to raise some money even before dawn. You also need to raise money? Sure. Not many officials can be compassionate and know well about people’s sufferings like you do. When others come here, they always ask us for money and things. It’s not that we refuse to offer, but we don’t have them. The great poet Qu Yuan once said, “Long I sigh to hold back tears, grieving at people’s suffering.” Mr. Li, you are just like Qu Yuan, maintaining good virtue
and unsullied integrity. You refuse to add a touch of burden to the people. You are admirable. So admirable. Wait. I just arrived in Lingnan and everything is unfamiliar to me. I hope you can cooperate with me on the purchase of fresh litchis. Certainly. We will fully cooperate. Mr. Li, I prepared you a generous gift. Not only is it precious, but it’s one of a kind. Thank you, Mr. Zhao. You should thank Mr. He. Thank you, Mr. He. This is [Inter-prefectural Transit Document]
the transit document issued by Mr. He. With it, you can go anywhere in Lingnan Circuit without obstacles. It’s truly precious and rare, isn’t it? We will do everything we can to help you with your errand. Aye. And Mr. He has personally written you a tablet. With this, you can do the errand justifiably. You know the situation here. The Inspector’s Mansion
is strapped for expenses. So for the work venue, Mr. Li, you’ll have to get one by yourself. [Litchi Directorate] 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? I arranged this banquet before leaving to bid you farewell. And I specially invited Mr. Li here. The Litchi Envoy? Yes. Although I didn’t have a chance to meet Mr. He this time, I know clearly about Mr. He’s loyalty to the Right Chancellor. But there’s a little thing I’d like to remind you. Alright. Please go ahead. I’m all ears. Mr. Li might look honest, but he is complicated deep within. As far as I know, he rarely talks. But once he says something, you have to think twice about his words. Mr. Zhao. Mr. Li. Sorry for being late. I hope I didn’t interrupt you. Not at all. We can’t start without you. Please sit. Mr. Zhao. I’ll sit here. Come sit here. You are from Chang’an. Sit here. My wine. Thank you for changing the seat. I’ll sit here. I’m sitting here. Here. Mr. Zhao. I’ll sit here. You drank so much. Sit down. You’re quite drunk. Let’s start! Aye. Mr. Li. So we meet again. We’re really like a family. As for the purchase errand, feel free to ask me if you have any questions. Do ask me. Okay. It’s good to be a family. It’s good. Speaking of which, I’m suddenly wondering that since litchis are perishable
and will be rotten within three days of being picked, why does His Majesty crave the litchis from Lingnan? His Majesty must have a reason for his order. We dare not speculate it. We dare not. It suddenly occurred to me today. It shows His Majesty’s concern
for Lingnan. Right. His Majesty cares about Lingnan. So is Mr. He back yet? Mr. He has not come back yet. Mr. Li, do you have a doubt about it? I also have some doubts. I’d like to ask how Pan Bao died actually. Well… Pan Bao drowned in Leyou Garden. I told you when I came. Mr. Zhao. Do you think I can’t deliver the litchis back to Chang’an? No. He drowned in Leyou Garden? It’s such a big deal. Why didn’t I hear of it at all? Don’t you believe I can deliver the litchis
back to Chang’an? I believe it. If so, you should… Mr. Li, why… You should take action. Why did you hide it? This is how Pan Bao’s accident happened. There is an old peony in Leyou Garden that His Majesty likes a lot. But it was broken by someone sent by the Right Chancellor. All those in Leyou Garden were silenced. No one dared to say what exactly happened inside
that day. As a result, Pan Bao drowned on that day. That’s it. Since you were silenced, Mr. Li, why did you dare to say it today? I’m running an errand for His Majesty, right? I’ve got nothing to fear. And I’ll make a statement today. I came to Lingnan with a mission. I’ll either get what I want or die in the line of duty. Alright, then let’s drink and wish Mr. Li gets what he wants! May you get what you want! Good. Come on. Let’s drink together. Let’s drink up. As the saying goes, “True partners bridge all distances, making continents
feel like neighborhoods.” Xinmin. After I leave tomorrow, please take care of my colleague. Guiyun, hold on. Knowing that you’ll be leaving Lingnan, I sent an urgent message to Mr. He. He’ll immediately rush back to Lingnan. Guiyun, please stay for one more day. He will return to Lingnan tomorrow? If so, I’ll stay for one more day! Lingnan style! Come on. It feels so comfortable here. Let’s drink, Mr. Li! Come on. Here. Top up your cups! Top it up, both of you. Dance in the Southern style! [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. I’m not leaving. He Youguang is going to give me money. Why should I leave? There is a bit of conflict between our tasks now. If there’s a conflict, why should I make compromises? If you don’t go, my life will be at stake. Your life will be at stake? Before meeting Zhao Xinmin, you already said that. Why is your life always at stake? Brother-in-law… Don’t call me that. Your surname is not Zheng now. Strictly speaking, we’re not family. I’ll just tell you the truth. I went to He Youguang today. He didn’t do what I asked. And he won’t give you money either. Why? I thought I was smarter than them. But they’re even smarter. But wait… Last night, you said we achieved a perfect cooperation. And that I already had Zhao Xinmin wrapped around my finger. So… No, they must give me the money no matter what. I’ll go to them. It’s useless even if you go. You can’t get the money! Why… How about this? I’ll help you one more time. But you have to promise me that once you get the money, you’ll go back to Chang’an immediately. Wait, if I get the money, why should I go then? Why don’t I save more money for Xiu? Do you know that money always slips easily? The best way is to rush back to Chang’an once you get the money. If anything happens unexpectedly, I’m afraid Xiu won’t even be able to see you before you die. Get the money and hurry back, so you’ll still have time
to be with Xiu. And I can do my job here without worries. Once I’m done, I’ll go back and raise Xiu until she grows up. The Hu Merchants we’re about to meet… [Litchi Directorate] are the patrons lining your pockets. You must carry yourself with the dignity of a Chang’an envoy. They’re truly willing to fund the litchi procurement? Rest assured. As for how much we take and how, that depends on our performance. Speak little later. Just follow my lead. Allow me to introduce you. This is Mr. Li. A high official
of the Office of Imperial Parks and His Majesty’s
most favored confidant. Mr. Li. Mr. Li. The title of Litchi Envoy was bestowed by His Majesty himself. In Chang’an, every powerful official fought tooth and nail for this post. Yet only Mr. Li received the imperial edict. It has to be Mr. Li. Mr. Li endured hardships to bring His Majesty’s will to Lingnan. It is your honor to witness this. [Su Liang] See how the Inspector
has prepared everything [Litchi Directorate]
for the procurement. Mr. Li, simmered litchis are hardly a rarity. Well… Then why would His Majesty dispatch a special envoy to procure them? Not simmered litchis. Not all simmered litchis are worthy of tribute to His Majesty. On the first day of the sixth month, we celebrate
the Noble Consort’s birthday. The litchis offered to her must be of the finest grade and absolute perfection. At the Noble Consort’s banquet, His Majesty will surely bestow these simmered litchis upon the officials. And those officials will then share them with their families. Imagine the quantity required. Exactly. And this is just for this year. For future procurement like this, we’ll send litchis over, but we’ll get back gold and silver. But… But not just anyone is qualified to handle this delivery. Are you saying Mr. Li alone decides which suppliers provide the litchis? Why else would he be the Litchi Envoy? Mr. Li enjoys unimpeded passage throughout Lingnan. His goods require no transit permits and are exempt from tariffs. Everyone, the advantages speak for themselves. That does sound great. Go back and prepare a thousand guan. Go now. Hurry. Everyone, a moment. Alright. Isn’t this a deception? What do you mean, a deception? I was deceived in the exact same way. Now, I could use my position to skim some profit. But I can’t deceive these innocent people with the same tactics my peers once used to try to ruin me. These aren’t poor people. They’re merchants. They won’t be ruined by this sum, much less lose their lives over it. Let me handle the deception. You take the money. Wait, no. Think of Xiu. Come on. Very well. In three days, we’ll publicly auction
the simmered litchis. Anyone who secures entry may compete. You can think it over. What’s there to think about? This opportunity won’t come again. I’m in. So am I. Here, here. Here. Everyone, everyone. – Here’s mine.
– Here’s mine. A word of caution, everyone. What you’re paying for might just be a qualification. It’s only a qualification. The business deal isn’t necessarily yours. Are you still willing
to spend this money? Mr. Li. What I’m buying is an opportunity. I crossed mountains and seas to do business in the Great Tang, enduring hardships at every turn. I’m always afraid
that I might die on the road, leaving my wife and daughter
with no means of support. If you can give me this business deal, then even if I really die, they’ll be able to live well. You’re absolutely right. We feel the same. You see? This is a blessing for all. They… Their entire families will thank you. Yes, yes. I… I apologize, everyone. My apologies. My friend misspoke earlier. His Majesty demands fresh litchis, not simmered ones. I must deliver fresh litchis back to Chang’an. Fresh litchis? Deliver fresh litchis to Chang’an? Impossible. No way. How is that even possible? You’re lying to us. And you called this a recurring opportunity? We’d be risking our lives delivering litchis. This isn’t buying a qualification. It’s buying suffering! Exactly! Well, if you’re unwilling, I won’t force you. This ends here. Let it end. He just left? Forget this matter. Return our money! Give it back! – Refund us!
– Pay back! A misunderstanding. Qilang, calm down. When you meet Mr. Li later, talk to him nicely. Get lost! You know Mr. Li’s character well. Qilang. Qilang. Compose yourself. Qilang. Oh, so you’re the paragon of virtue now? The very model of righteousness? I went through so much trouble
to find those Hu Merchants. I managed to build the stage, and we were about
to take the money and bow out. And what did you do? You tore down your own stage! We’re all fathers. They give me money just to make a bit more so their kids can have a better life. I can’t just take advantage of others for my own daughter. They’re wealthy. And they can earn it back in the future. But can you? You only have three months to live! Once you’re dead, Xiu will be sold into slavery. Do you think she’ll thank you, her upright father, then? A noble man desires wealth, but acquires it justly. With three months left, I refuse to believe deception is my only option. Li Shande, I’ve shown you every kindness! From now on, find your own way to make money! Qilang. Don’t try to persuade me! Let him wait for death! Calm down, Qilang. Hopeless. I wish to fight with everything I have. But I don’t even have a weapon. The sunken ship… Even you bully me now. Even you! Begone! Is this the residence of Mr. Li? Is Mr. Li inside? Excuse me. Excuse me. I learned of your lodgings at Qifeng Pavilion. I hope I do not presume. Here is a little gift from me. Sir, take them. Do not push your luck. You present gifts with such audacity. I’m here to recommend myself. I am a Hu merchant. I run a small business in Gaozhou. I also bear a Tang name. It is Su Liang. “Gu” as in Gusu. Ah, no, “Su” as in Gusu. “Liang” as in forgiveness, understanding, pardon.
[*The meanings of “liang” in Chinese] Most kindly address me as Elder Su. I can fully understand you Tang people’s language. But you might not understand what I say. If my speech causes a bit of confusion for you. That’s just
the natural course of things. Sir, please don’t worry over nothing. Well… Your phrasing is really… So, what do you want? Mr. Li, do you prefer directness? So do I. You must be facing a huge trouble. And you need a great deal of money. Am I right? Well… So I’m right about that. Rest assured, sir. I have money. I can lend you some. You can lend me money? Though we merchants prefer exchange. Shrimp for fish. Fish for shrimp. Turtles for pangolins. But I don’t have a pangolin. Nor am I a turtle. I want to trade for something you have. But I carry nothing of value. Just now, that portly and comely gentleman mentioned your unimpeded passage
through Lingnan. No inspections, no tariffs. So you must hold a transit document. I do have a transit document
for the five prefectures. So I guessed right. So there are no restrictions
on the goods, and the transit document is blank, right? It is indeed blank. Great. Could you lend it to me to facilitate my business? How much do you want? Name your price. I’ll pay it now. Then, you gain your turtle, I gain my pangolin, and together,
we play the snipe and clam, letting the fisherman profit. No, you’ve misused the idiom again. But we Tang people… You Tang people value integrity above all. I like that a lot. “A few cups of wine, a vow sworn. It outweighs mountains.” Li Bai said that. Why are you reciting poetry now? You see… In our country, impersonating someone else to use this could result in beheading. Understood. Fully understood. So I won’t let you suffer loss. I’ll let you get a really good deal. Name your price. I’ll pay it now. Seven hundred and sixty-six. Deal. Already? If too modest, I’ll add thirty percent. Let’s just round it up to a thousand guan. How about that? Well, Seven hundred and sixty-six,
plus 30 percent more, equals 996. Then 996 it is. That’s settled then. Be careful. Mind your step. Slow down. Take it slow. [Twenty guan] Shande, you’re something else. He rounded it up, but you had to reduce it. I just blurted it out. Too late to take it back. I’ve never seen anyone like you. Treat a budget like final accounts. Still, we underestimated the potential value of this transit document
to the merchants. You could have asked for 1500 guan and he still would have agreed. His haste did give me regret. Anyway, you’ll go back with a full load. Will you depart today? Before coming here, I visited the Bureau of Operations of the Ministry of War and copied the Imperial Atlas of the Nine Provinces and the Register of All Courier Routes. Now I have a visual understanding of the transportation system
of our country. Last night, I spent the entire evening
planning in my room. Actually, after leaving Chang’an, I took the route from Lantian
to Shangzhou Circuit, crossed the Han River at Xiangzhou, then headed south all the way, crossed the Jiang River at Ezhou, and followed the river downstream
to Hongzhou, Jizhou, and Qianzhou, crossed the Five Ridges
and the Mei Pass to Shaozhou, and finally reached Lingnan. The total distance is 5,447 li. Based on the consumption
of one guan per li, that would amount to 5,447 guan. But the trouble is, since I arrived in Lingnan,
I haven’t had the money to try it out. Try what? Delivering litchis? If it succeeds, then I won’t have to die, and Xiu won’t lose her father. You might as well just die. How could you even think of delivering litchis? Now that you have some money,
hurry back to Chang’an. Don’t let things drag on
and cause more trouble. Before I left, Zimei said that although I’d been given
an impossible task, there might still be a way out of this desperate situation. I was really moved. Well, don’t be. Zimei is a poet. His head’s in the clouds. He just said a few random words
in Chang’an, and you’re already swayed? A way out of this desperate situation? You’re more likely
to fall into an abyss. If the Inspector finds out you sold the transit document, you’re still a dead man. But I haven’t even seen a litchi tree. I’m not willing to give up like this. Why must you see one? Just return to Xiu. She’s left alone in Chang’an. If my sister were still alive, she wouldn’t let you
act so recklessly either. Gou. Come here. Hire some ox carts and laborers. Pack Mr. Li’s belongings. Aye. Mr. Li, take care. [Litchi Directorate] Gou, hurry to the Inspector’s Mansion. Tell them the Litchi Envoy has departed. Have them station men at the city gates to verify. Aye. Mr. Li. Guiyun. Chang’an lies thousands of li ahead. Who knows when we’ll meet again? Take care. “Green hills bar the north
beyond the wall. Clear streams bend east
through fields below. This parting sends you far alone. Like autumn weeds
when west winds blow. Your mind will drift with clouds. My sorrow lingers
with the day’s last light. We wave our hands, and you ride away. Your horse still calling
through the night.” My talent is meager. I cannot craft worthy lines on the spot. So I borrowed Li Bai’s verses to convey my heart. Mr. Li, the road ahead is muddy. Stay safe. Since you’ve gifted me a poem, I must return the courtesy. No need for formalities. No, it’s only proper. It’s getting late. I’ve got one. I’ve got one. “Northward, my homeland
fades from sight, My sleeves are soaked
with tears all night. No paper nor writing brush on my steed.” May Shande’s words
bring Ping’an’s heart. This is Cen Shen’s poem with slight alterations. The original goes… I know. Yours is better. Shande and Ping’an are in it. Mr. Li. “Set forth, my friend,
fear not the lonely way. For all beneath the sky
shall know your name.” Now, hit the road. – Aye.
– Aye. Where are you headed? We’re escorting a convoy to Chang’an. This is the carter, Crooked Mouth. I’ve been waiting forever. How much longer? Not soon. So many people. And so many carts. At least four more hours. What’s in this? Who’s this? His name is Chen Adi. Chen Adi. Since we’re already at the edge
of the abyss with no retreat, why not take one step forward
and fight with everything we have? Perhaps we can claw back
a sliver of hope. Did that litchi-selling girl
not come today? You mean that Dong girl? Yes. Haven’t seen her today. Sir, how about you give me 20 wen, and I’ll take you to her right now? Sir, sir. We can negotiate. Look at this business I’m running here. Then run your business. None of my business. Well… Let’s discuss this properly. You can haggle. Well, ten wen. This area here
is her family’s litchi orchard. Sir, this is where the Dong people grow their litchi trees. But they’ve only just bloomed. Not yet time for the shells to form. Take a look. Quite the unimpressive sight. Even Zimei couldn’t compose a decent poem about this. Sir, don’t judge these litchi trees by their looks. These are litchis grown by Dong people in Gaozhou. They’re the best. Especially the ones
grown by that Dong girl you’re looking for. Her name is Tong. The litchis she grows are big and round, thick-fleshed and juicy. Best reputation far and wide. Then I must see for myself. That litchi orchard up ahead is hers. Sir. Pay me first. I can’t run around for free. Here. Give me ten wen back. Alright, don’t worry. Look. Just forget about the extra. What do you mean? You… Just forget it. [Litchi Directorate] You… A city man! And wearing official robes! Where? – Where?
– Where? – Where?
– Where? It is an official. But not the same one who came last time to seize the orchard. We chased the last one off. This must be a new one sent by the Inspector. Litchi Directorate. Did the Inspector talk to you? They came by a few days ago. Mr. He is quite thoughtful. I… I’m the Litchi Envoy. Here for litchis, not your life? More like here for money! Get him! The plank. Wait, what do you want…? Thank you. What… What do you actually want? No, seriously. You must have some purpose. Are you after money, or…? What are you trying to do? Speak! I say we beat him first. I can’t hold back anymore. What are you all doing? Are there pests? Catch one and show me. It rained a few days ago. Stink bugs, right? No. This. Stoneback ladybug. It’s a stink bug. No. We’ve strung bamboo strips
between the trees, so the big ants can cross and hunt the stoneback ladybugs. That won’t work. Stink bugs can fly. The ants can’t catch them. Now untie me. I have a solution. Hurry. Stink bugs, full of foul juice. Disgustingly pungent. Won’t wash off. Water won’t work. There… There’s mint over there. Rub it with mint leaves. Do you recognize mint? It really doesn’t stink anymore. No stink? No stink? No stink? Let me smell. Smell it. Really, no stink. Smell it. Truly gone. It works, doesn’t it? Listen, stink bugs don’t just suck sap from leaves and flowers. When the fruit grows, they’ll attack that too. Do you want healthy litchis or not? Untie me now. I’ll help you eliminate them. Let’s peel these. Quick, peel. Who has soap pods for laundry? Soap pods? I have some. Go get some. And get some water to make soap pod solution. Half of you, gather mint leaves. And crush them into juice. Water’s here. Move aside. Soap pods are here! Come on, come on. Make way. Step aside. Here, here. Mint leaves are here! No, no, don’t eat them. Well, put the mint into the soap pod solution and stir well. Froth it up. Alright. Froth. Stir harder. Alright. – Harder!
– Keep stirring! Alright. Follow me. [Litchi Directorate] What’s going on here? The head is back! You… Miss Tong. Why are you here? I… The stoneback ladybugs are dead! – Truly dead.
– Truly dead. Dead. That city man said he had a way to kill
the stoneback ladybugs. And in just moments,
every single one on the tree died. He really knows his stuff. Great! Not my method, truly. It’s ancestral wisdom. This is how I dealt with pests in Chang’an’s gardens. Stop splashing it around! This is for bugs, not people. Don’t waste it. No more splashing. You’ve all seen how it’s done. Now go and eliminate those pests. Get to work! – Alright!
– Alright! – Let’s get to work!
– Get to work! No wasting! Why did you come today? I wanted to buy litchis from you outside Qifeng Pavilion. But you weren’t there. A merchant said the best litchis grow here. So I came. Didn’t expect to find an insect plague. You’re so young. This… This whole orchard is yours? My parents left it to me. But right now, only the March Red litchis
are in season. In the fourth month, I’ll pick the finest and bring them to you. I can’t wait until then. I must return to Chang’an soon. I just want to buy some litchis from you. I’ll take them with me and see how long they’ll last. Come with me.