Oracle of the Dragon (2026) Movie Script
From the era of dual
sovereigns reigning together.
To the Fengshan ceremony at Mount Tai.
Empress Wu Zetian.
Etched a woman's name
atop the pinnacle of power.
With an iron fist.
Yet.
The winds rage and waves surge.
Encircled by enemies on all sides.
The ancestral worship
at Zhaoling is imminent.
A storm of accusation
before the ancestral tomb.
Has quietly begun.
Leaving no survivors.
Kill!
What's the commotion?
General.
The mechanism alarmed.
Anomaly in the northwest direction
I'll go check first.
You quickly form a team to search.
Yes.
Intruders into Zhaoling.
Die!
Still not surrendering?
General, don't you remember Wu Zhao?
Empress Wu?
Don't you kneel when you see this palace?
With what you've learned.
Even if it's just one in ten thousand.
It's enough to peek into heaven's secrets.
Go ahead and speak.
What do you see?
Not a word of lies.
Speak!
Since ancient times.
The dragon dwells in the center.
The phoenix guards its side.
Now.
The phoenix seeks to surpass the dragon.
As one fades, the other grows.
Great chaos is inevitable.
A catastrophe cannot be avoided.
Destruction precedes renewal.
Look closely.
What will be the final fate of
the phoenix and the dragon?
There is another dragon.
Who will rise at the appointed time.
If you wish to avoid disaster
and preserve yourself.
You should avoid its sharp edge.
Wait for the right time to meet again.
That is the best strategy.
Another dragon...
Don't push me!
Line up, line up.
Prince Gan has returned to Chang'an.
He's distributing alms for ten days.
Everyone will get a share!
Don't push.
Thanks to the Zhaoling ancestral worship.
Otherwise, Prince Gan would still be abroad.
As soon as he comes back,
he thinks of us commoners.
He truly has us in his heart.
What do you know?
Whether to hold the
ancestral worship or not.
It's Empress Wu who makes the decision.
If you want to thank
someone, thank Empress Wu.
Are they all grateful to Prince Gan?
Praising and thanking him profusely?
They said, "Thank you for nothing".
Not Prince Gan.
Should we thank her instead?
Over there, over there.
According to reliable sources.
Empress Wu.
Is not in good health.
She's still in Luoyang now.
Hasn't returned to Chang'an.
She doesn't want to come back.
And she dares not come back.
It's better that she doesn't.
If she really comes back.
It will be another bloodbath.
Who else does she want to kill?
She has many people she wants to kill.
But there are also
many who want to kill her
I think.
This ancestral worship.
Something big will definitely happen.
Take Prince Gan for example.
He's the one Empress Wu fears the most.
Perhaps...
What nonsense are you talking about?
Be careful you lose your head.
Please speak cautiously.
They should naturally know.
Thank His Majesty.
Enough.
Stop pretending.
You know who I'm talking about.
Eat while it's hot.
It won't taste good when it's cold.
Come, come.
It's all for you.
All for you.
Here.
Old Di, I'll see you off.
Thank you, Prince Gan.
If Empress Wu learns of our association.
What will she think?
It doesn't matter to me.
Shouldn't you be the
one worried, Prince Gan?
Dare she do anything to the Li Tang clan?
Then what is Prince Gan worried about?
By the way.
Old Di.
Can you send some men.
To protect me?
Prince Gan has a strong army.
And extraordinary martial arts skills.
Why need the Dali Temple to intervene?
Right.
Words from a beggar.
How can they be taken seriously?
Upper-class people tell lies often.
Beggars speak the truth.
Human words.
The Dali Temple is busy with affairs.
I won't disturb you further.
Surely Your Highness is busier than I am?
Preparing for the
ancestral worship ceremony.
Must be extremely tedious.
Do you think I'm willing to do it?
If it weren't for preparing the ceremony
I would have returned to Anzhou long ago.
Didn't Your Highness say you'd see me off?
I'm the one who speaks nonsense.
Upper-class people.
Return to the mansion.
Here, Old Di.
Prince Gan invited you to dinner?
Dinner?
Just speaking nonsense.
Nonsense?
Mostly things that can't be said openly.
Old Di.
You can tell.
Human words from nonsense.
But Prince Gan's actions
are clearly self-protection.
You.
Don't put much effort
into researching medicine.
But you have quite an
insight into this nonsense.
You...
What is this?
A medicine cannon.
A medicine cannon?
A formula from the Medicine King Sun Simiao.
Old Duan.
You scared me suddenly.
My heart can't take it.
It won't explode.
I just want you to see more clearly.
After thinking hard with my brilliant mind.
A little reflection.
A groundbreaking invention.
Is about to be born.
An invention?
Look carefully.
The show is about to begin.
Don't blink, Old Di.
Old Duan, did it work?
Almost there.
Truly a great show.
Lord Di.
General Quan, the guard
commander of Zhaoling,
suddenly went mad.
And destroyed the imperial mausoleum.
He's now locked in death row.
What? Destroyed the imperial mausoleum?
Old Duan, let's go.
Let's go!
Lord Di.
Quan is wronged.
Terribly wronged!
When General Quan was brought here.
He was tightly tied up.
He was as crazy as a beast then.
Didn't recognize anyone.
He's only slightly sober now.
General Quan.
What exactly happened?
Destroying the imperial
mausoleum is a capital crime.
Lord Di
iLast night, the mausoleum's
mechanism suddenly alarmed.
General, do you not remember me?
Empress Wu?
Don't you kneel when you see this palace?
Greetings to Empress Wu.
Good.
Very good.
Empress Wu, why are you here?
I came to admire the moon.
But didn't expect this moonlight.
To be overshadowed by these shabby things.
General.
Will you assist Wu Zhao?
This Quan.
Willing to die a hundred deaths.
Empress Wu.
Every word Quan says is true.
The other side must have
used some evil sorcery.
Please, Lord Di, avenge me.
That masked woman.
Pretended to be Empress Wu.
Ordered you to destroy the pagoda forest.
So you.
So I smashed.
Smashed like crazy.
Guarding the imperial mausoleum
was originally my responsibility.
But I lost my mind.
When the guards found me
I was still in a nightmare.
They can all testify for me.
Lord Di.
Avenge me.
Where are General Quan's clothes?
Old Di.
We tested the substance
on General Quan's clothes.
It's indeed an altered
hallucinogenic drug from Wushi San.
Mixed with many other rare medicinal herbs.
It seems.
What General Quan said should be true.
The mechanism alarm.
Should have been triggered by tomb robbers.
If that masked woman really robbed the tomb.
Could it be as General Quan said.
Related to that iron box?
Let's put the iron box aside for now.
The most urgent thing now
is to give Empress Wu an explanation.
We have to save General Quan's life.
Destroying the imperial mausoleum.
Is punishable by beheading.
Without key evidence
I'm afraid it's hard to save him.
General Quan.
Prepare yourself.
After I finish the morning court.
We'll go to Zhaoling.
His Majesty is unwell.
Lord Di.
Please come back.
Di has important matters to report.
Dare not leave.
The destruction of the imperial mausoleum.
Has made His Majesty
bear the name of unfilial piety.
Now His Majesty is furious.
In the morning court.
His will is clear.
Could it be.
Has Your Lordship not heard.
What's more.
This matter concerns
the Empress's reputation.
If you anger His Majesty again.
I'm afraid disaster will befall you.
Sage kings like Yao and Shun.
All cherished loyal advice.
Tyrants like Jie and Zhou.
Rejected remonstrance
and confused right and wrong
I know.
Your Majesty is a wise ruler.
Will not be blinded by personal feelings.
If out of personal fear
I let Your Majesty bear
the name of unkindness.
Di Renjie swears he cannot comply.
Let him come in.
Your Majesty.
During the Western Han Dynasty.
Someone stole the jade ring
from Changling Mausoleum.
Emperor Wen was furious.
Wanted to execute his nine clans.
But the ministers strongly remonstrated.
In the end, only the robber was beheaded.
Now General Quan accidentally
destroyed the imperial mausoleum.
There is evidence that
he was under the influence
of hallucinogenic drugs.
Although he was derelict in his duties.
His crime does not deserve death.
Your Majesty, the state has state laws.
The family has family rules.
If we abandon justice.
To preserve the names
of loyalty and filial piety.
Wouldn't that chill the
hearts of the people?
If Your Majesty, out of momentary anger.
Uses imperial power.
To override national law.
And take his life.
A hundred years later.
How will the world judge Your Majesty?
The Empress will not stand
by and let this happen either.
You went to see Prince Gan.
Your Majesty.
Since Prince Gan returned to the capital.
He has done many good deeds.
Not only helping the poor and needy.
But also treating me to a simple meal.
My righteous brother has
made great military achievements.
But he always seems a bit strange.
It seems after the ancestral worship.
I must have a good talk with him.
Your Majesty is wise.
Whether I'm wise or not.
Let history judge.
Now the ancestral worship
ceremony is imminent.
Lord Di, you must solve this case quickly.
Don't let rumors implicate
the Empress again.
I will do my utmost.
As for General Quan.
Find out the truth.
Handle it according to the law.
I'm tired, you may leave.
I take my leave.
Tell the North Gate Scholars.
"The Twelve Suggestions."
"Biographies of Exemplary Women."
Are well compiled, reward them.
Yes.
Empress Wu.
How dare someone be so bold.
As to impersonate this palace.
I wonder how similar they look.
Empress Wu's grace is unparalleled.
How can a scoundrel
imitate even a fraction of it?
Such a heinous act.
Deserves severe punishment.
Your Majesty, according
to preliminary investigation.
It should be tomb robbers
who broke into Zhaoling.
Using mechanisms or drugs in the mausoleum.
General Quan accidentally
fell under an illusion.
Hence the mistake in recognition.
I wonder what Di Renjie.
Will eventually find out.
Your Majesty is insightful.
Your son thinks.
Lord Di will uphold his duties.
And find the truth.
No one with malicious
intentions can escape the law.
The urgent report mentions.
At the time of the incident.
Prince Gan was outside
the city with Lord Di.
Distributing relief to the victims.
What a perfect alibi.
Xiao Dao, take my token.
Go to Chang'an immediately.
Assist Di Renjie in thoroughly
investigating this case.
Bring the culprit back after capture.
This palace wants to see for itself.
How similar this impersonator looks to me.
Empress Wu.
This...
It's okay.
I have capable men to protect me here.
But Chang'an is a mixed bag.
You must be careful.
Rest assured, Empress Wu.
Chang'an, Zhaoling, Dali Temple.
And the movements of all forces.
Xiao Dao will keep a close eye on.
And report at any time.
A ruler must
not only distinguish
between loyalty and treachery.
But also have the ability
to make ministers serve him.
Instead of being timid.
Or having other thoughts.
Your son will follow mother's teachings.
Study diligently.
And live up to mother's expectations.
Go.
Your son takes his leave.
Send more men.
Keep a close watch on Prince
Gan's mansion these days.
Also observe the Crown Prince's movements.
Don't let them.
Cause any more trouble.
Yes.
Old Di.
It has the same smell and texture
as on General Quan's clothes.
It's that mind-altering hallucinogenic drug.
Smell it.
Found it, found it.
Found it!
Lord Di.
The stolen imperial mausoleum.
Has been found.
It's not the imperial
mausoleum that was stolen.
But the accompanying
tomb of General Yuchi Gong,
the Loyal and Martial.
Yuchi Gong?
Exactly.
I'll go down to investigate.
You wait above to respond.
My lord, no.
Every tomb in Zhaoling
is full of mechanisms.
One wrong step.
And it's irreversible.
Who can control the mechanisms?
The mausoleum's mechanisms
are top-secret information.
Your subordinate doesn't know.
Old Di.
If you don't break the mechanisms.
You must not go down.
How about.
You go down.
Then you go.
I have an idea.
Be careful.
Old Di.
How are you?
Don't move.
Old Di.
Pull me up.
Pull!
Old Di, you're too heavy.
Old Di.
What do you think?
Logically, the imperial
mausoleum is heavily guarded.
Full of mechanisms.
Full of mechanisms.
Yes.
Who can break the mechanisms.
And rob the tomb?
Whoever can break the mechanisms.
Must be someone who
is familiar with its secrets.
No.
Old Di, if he is familiar
with Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Why would he.
Choose Yuchi Gong's
accompanying tomb specifically?
I think they're not after
gold and silver treasures.
But a specific item in Yuchi Gong's tomb.
It should be a cooperation
between two people.
One is an expert in tomb mechanisms.
The other is a martial arts expert.
Why did these two suddenly
turn against each other.
And want to kill each other?
Could it be that the man
in black was coerced here?
Stop, stop, Old Di.
Let me say something.
It's the masked woman
who held the man in
black in the tomb hostage.
General Quan mentioned earlier.
The masked woman had an iron box.
I just found a spot.
On the coffin in the
tomb that was free of dust.
Could it be.
That's where the iron box was kept before?
I get it.
First, take him hostage.
Then seize the treasure.
Then kill him.
Old Di, what exactly is in that iron box?
Do you have any medicine?
Medicine? I have some.
What kind of medicine do you need?
Medicine that can make the dead speak.
How can the dead speak?
Are you joking?
Wait, I get it again.
You mean.
Exactly.
That man in black is the
key to solving the case
I know, Old Di.
Let me say.
After he breaks the mechanisms.
The masked woman
strangles him with a long whip.
And seizes the iron box.
So.
The male corpse
is the one who is familiar
with the tomb's mechanisms?
Right?
Old...
Old Di.
Prince Gan.
Lord Di.
I heard that Prime Minister Yan.
Will inspect the fireworks and firecrackers
for the ancestral worship ceremony tonight.
By the way.
Aren't you not interested
in the preparation
of the celebration?
Prime Minister Yan personally invited
me to watch together yesterday
I couldn't refuse.
Old Di, you should be at Zhaoling right now.
Why are you here?
Nothing can escape
Prince Gan's discerning eyes.
Di Mo is here.
Because I have something
to ask for Prime Minister Yan's help.
Prince Gan, please.
Indeed, my elder brother
designed and built Zhaoling.
But the ingenuity of its mechanisms.
This case is of great importance.
Please speak frankly, Prime Minister Yan.
Those who are proficient in mechanisms.
Only the Mohist School in the world.
When Zhaoling was built.
The Mohist School was the first choice.
The Mohist School? Isn't it extinct?
Could it be.
Their challenge to the
unified imperial court.
Finally led them to decline and wither.
But there are still embers
hiding in the mountains and forests.
To build Zhaoling.
They went to great lengths.
To find people from the Mohist School.
And created a masterpiece.
Who in the world can break
Zhaoling's mechanisms?
I can't think of anyone.
That means.
Whoever can unlock Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Must be from the Mohist School.
Prime Minister Yan, the Mohist
School is now the only clue.
Please give us some guidance.
The news of the hidden Mohist School.
Is a promise I made to them back then.
If this matter is related
to the Mohist School.
Then they have violated the law.
And their crime is unforgivable.
If not.
Please speak cautiously, Lord Di.
Di understands.
The chief designer of Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Mo Lao of the Mohist School.
Now hides in the Jixian Academy.
Guarding the library.
Prince Gan, Prime Minister Yan, Old Di.
What's the matter?
Censors sent by Empress Wu have arrived.
Order you to return to
Dali Temple immediately.
What's coming will come eventually.
Prince Gan, could you
come and listen again?
No, we're incompatible.
Like fire and water.
Di Renjie, receive the order.
Di Renjie, along with all
members of Dali Temple, obeys.
Since Empress Wu and His Majesty.
Held the Fengshan ceremony at Mount Tai.
The country has been peaceful
and the people have been safe.
Peace reigns everywhere.
But as the ancestral worship
ceremony in Chang'an approaches.
The ancestral imperial mausoleum
has been invaded by tomb robbers.
This is an insult to the
monarch and unfilial piety.
Damaging Empress Wu's prestige.
The crime is heinous.
Shall not be forgiven.
Your Dali Temple.
Must work together.
To ensure the eternal
stability of the Tang Dynasty.
Lord Di.
Receive the order.
And you.
Do I have to receive the order too?
Is that necessary?
I'm just a doctor.
Is being a doctor great?
Doctors are also common people.
Sorry, Lord Xiao Dao.
You can't call me Lord Xiao Dao.
Lord Sima.
You must have had a tiring journey.
Please rest first.
No need.
Thank you, Lord Di, for detailing the case.
My lord.
My lord,
Master Zhang from the
Ministry of Works was murdered.
Master Zhang?
Killed in his own mansion.
Did Master Zhang participate
in the construction of Zhaoling?
As far as I know, he
was the deputy supervisor.
The chief designer of Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Mo Lao of the Mohist School.
Now hides in the Jixian Academy.
Guarding the library.
This is not good.
Maybe Mo Lao is in danger
I'll go check.
You take people to investigate
Master Zhang's mansion.
Yes.
Old Di.
Take this, it might counteract
the hallucinogenic drug.
Who is Mo Lao?
Jiuzong Academy.
Mo Lao of the Mohist School.
Greetings to Empress Wu.
You personally made this box back then.
Now someone is plotting
against the Tang Dynasty.
Wu Zhao.
Needs to open the box
to retrieve the treasure.
To stabilize the state.
Please help me open it, Mo Lao.
Plotting against the Tang Dynasty?
Who dares to be so bold?
Such a secret.
Mo Lao doesn't need to ask.
Just help me open this box.
And you will have made a great contribution
to the Mohist School.
A great contribution.
Alright, alright.
Mo Lao.
Who are you?
How dare you be rude to Empress Wu?
Someone help! There are assassins!
Assassins in the study!
You must be Di Renjie.
You can't hold on after just a few moves.
It's a pity that Prince
Gan values you so much.
And tries to win you over.
You're nothing special.
Prince Gan, so you're in cahoots with them?
Foolish.
Do you even believe that?
Someone come! Over here, over here!
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
How are you, Mo Lao?
I'm okay.
It's good that we got it back.
You... Are you with Prince Gan and them?
Could you be in the same group?
Since they can impersonate Empress Wu.
They can also frame Prince Gan.
Di Renjie, why aren't you chasing them?
Saving people is the priority.
Besides, we already have the iron box.
They will take the initiative
to come to us sooner or later.
Di Renjie.
Yes, Mo Lao
I'll find a doctor for you right away.
Wait.
Tell me, who broke it?
Tell me, who broke it?
Zhaoling's mechanisms of Yuchi Gong's tomb?
The one who broke the mechanisms.
Is already dead in the tomb.
He should have tried to
activate the mechanisms again.
After entering the tomb.
Hence was strangled to death.
Prime Minister Yan said.
Besides the descendants
of the Mohist School.
No one else in the world can unlock.
Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Oh no.
Oh no.
Something bad will
happen to the Mohist School.
Your subordinate knows he is guilty.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace is lost.
It's my fault.
Please punish me, my lord.
To accuse that witch empress.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace is the key.
Without this mace.
The revenge plan may fail.
My sister and I swear to
retrieve the Dragon-Suppressing Mace
I wonder how the old Mohist man's mind is.
What does my lord mean?
If he's still alive.
Do you think he will
return to the Mohist School?
The Mohist School has hidden
in the mountains and forests
since the early Tang Dynasty.
But it's not difficult for those
in power to find their hiding place.
If someone coerces my Mohist School.
To unlock Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Who could have done this
with such cruel methods?
I get it.
Everyone is kneeling in a row.
Hands tied behind their backs.
Presumably someone
was holding a knife next
to them to coerce them.
Mother, I'm scared.
I'm scared.
The Mohist School is
proficient in tomb mechanisms.
That male corpse in black in the tomb
must be from the Mohist School.
They used the lives of
more than a dozen members
of the Mohist School as leverage.
To make him go into the
tomb to retrieve something.
But after they got what they wanted.
They turned their backs.
And killed everyone.
Leaving no survivors.
Kill!
The angle of the arrow
penetration is from top to bottom.
Presumably shot from a high place.
Ancestors of the Mohist School, above.
Mo Lao is incompetent.
Failed to protect the
safety of my descendants.
After I settle my funeral affairs.
I will go to the underworld
to accept punishment.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
First return to Dali Temple.
Duan Yanxin will definitely cure you.
My time is running out.
Give me the box.
Back then, Yuchi Gong.
Foreseen that once this
item appears in the world.
It will stir up a storm.
So he took it with him as a burial object.
And entrusted my Mohist School
to make a mechanism lock for the box.
Just in case.
What Yuchi Gong did was undoubtedly correct.
But times change.
Even if this item doesn't appear.
A bloodbath will still break out.
Perhaps only this item.
Can in these turbulent times.
Turn the tide.
And ensure the safety of the Tang Dynasty.
This is...
This is the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Could this be a warning from heaven?
Back then.
Yuchi Gong followed Emperor
Gaozu to establish the world.
Amidst the upheaval.
He achieved extraordinary merits.
Emperor Gaozu personally
bestowed this exotic divine weapon.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
It can punish incompetent emperors above.
And execute traitorous ministers below.
If this mace is in the
hands of a loyal minister.
It can uphold justice.
And rectify the court.
But if this mace is seized by traitors.
The Tang Dynasty may be in imminent danger.
Tottering.
A true dragon cannot be hidden.
It will eventually emerge.
What a true dragon cannot be hidden.
Mo Lao.
Kill!
Despicable!
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace
is the key evidence in this case.
Lord Sima, why are you seizing it?
This mace is more important than we thought.
It must be presented to Empress Wu by me.
Chase!
No.
What's wrong?
There's another woman with a knife.
Could this be a diversion?
Why not hand it over to
His Majesty for disposal?
Naturally, His Majesty.
Empress Wu will pass it to His Majesty.
They will decide together.
If either Lord Di or Lord Sima survives.
We must bury the Mohist School members
I'll carry the iron box.
You take the Dragon-Suppressing Mace
and escape when the time is right.
As you said.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace
is related to the safety
of the Tang Dynasty
I hope Lord Sima.
Will think carefully.
Take this, it can counteract
the hallucinogenic drug.
Split up and chase!
Alright!
The Dragon-Suppressing
Mace is indeed on you.
Thank you very much.
Otherwise,
getting the old Mohist man
to break the mechanisms.
Would have really taken some effort.
Despicable!
Dare you fight me head-on?
Kneel when you see this palace!
Empress Wu?
Give it to me, be obedient.
No matter how you disguise yourself.
You are not even a fraction
as graceful as Empress Wu.
So you were prepared.
Die!
Lord Sima.
Lord Sima.
Lord Sima.
My lord.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Good.
You two have merit in seizing the mace
I will definitely reward you heavily.
My sister and I only want revenge.
We don't seek rewards.
Your injury.
The situation was urgent.
To seize this mace.
Xiao Xiao accidentally
lost the human skin mask.
Please punish me, my lord.
We have the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
The revenge plan is within reach.
From now on.
We will no longer live in
hiding behind this mask.
When that witch empress returns.
It will be time to settle accounts with her.
What's wrong with her?
It's a long story.
You treat her first
I'll explain later.
Leave it to me.
Presumptuous!
How dare you be rude to me?
I...
I kindly saved you.
And you hit me?
Still talking back?
Lord Sima.
You misunderstood.
Treating illness doesn't
distinguish between men and women.
Doctor Duan was just feeling your pulse.
A mere superficial wound, making a fuss.
Biting the hand that feeds you.
Not recognizing kindness.
Old Di, you shouldn't
have bothered saving her.
Enough.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace is lost.
All clues are broken.
And you're still bickering here?
Bickering?
Look at my face, it's all swollen.
Yuchi Gong rides his
horse with a spear in hand.
Holding the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
His armor shines brightly.
Full of momentum.
Crushing all sides.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace,
a treasure personally
bestowed by Emperor Gaozu.
Empress Wu.
Xiao Dao lost the mace.
Will she be punished when she retrieves it?
I know that girl Xiao Dao.
She will definitely retrieve
what she lost herself.
Yes.
Prince Gan.
Empress Wu has made a move.
That Xiao Dao sent by Empress Wu.
She's one of the orphans
adopted by Empress Wu.
Sima Xiao Dao.
She's the one who got injured.
So Empress Wu has already made a move.
Then Prince Gan.
We...
How about this, you go to Dali Temple.
Tell Di Renjie that someone
tried to assassinate me.
I wasn't killed.
But I was injured.
Urge the doctor from Dali
Temple to come for treatment.
Your subordinate understands
I'll do it right away.
She tried to confuse me.
With hallucinogenic drugs.
Fortunately, that
bottle of medicine you
gave me alleviated the effect.
It's my bottle of medicine.
If it weren't for that hallucinogenic drug.
She would never be my match, Sima Xiao Dao.
No need to thank me, Lord Xiao Dao.
You...
If you dare call me Lord Xiao Dao again
I'll cut out your tongue immediately.
Dali Temple keeps such idlers like you.
No wonder there are so many cases recently.
Yes, you're absolutely right.
No wonder Empress Wu
sent you to Dali Temple.
You lost the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
And almost drowned.
You...
I...
You two are so energetic.
Why not look for more clues instead?
Old Duan.
Did you find any clues?
I wasn't even there.
Ask her if you want to know.
Stop talking nonsense.
Fine, fine, I'll stop.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace...
Do you remember
the rotating wheel on the
Dragon-Suppressing Mace?
When it spins.
The sound it makes.
Can actually counteract
the effect of that hallucinogenic drug.
At the moment it sounded.
My mind cleared slightly.
And I tore off her human skin mask.
A human skin mask?
Yes.
Moreover, I saw her real face.
Who is she?
I don't know.
But I remember she has
a tattoo on her forehead.
A tattoo?
Any unique features?
It's a large tattoo.
It seems to hide some characters.
What characters?
I couldn't see clearly.
That tattoo is probably
to cover the characters on her forehead.
Branding punishment.
A criminal?
Not necessarily a criminal.
Branding is just an additional punishment.
Sometimes even if the family
doesn't need to go to prison.
They can't escape involvement.
One strike of the knife.
Is a lifelong humiliation.
Branded on the face.
Carved into the bones.
Involvement...
Lord Sima, do you have any other clues?
You forgot.
Forgot what?
Prince Gan values you so much.
And even tries to win you over.
Prince Gan...
Lord Di, shouldn't you
investigate Prince Gan?
Lord Di,
someone from Prince Gan's
mansion is here to see you.
Speak of the devil.
Lord Di.
Thank you, Lord Di
I'll take Doctor Duan.
Back to Prince Gan's mansion now.
Alright.
Lord Sima, why not come with us?
Lord Sima, please.
Not interested.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
What did you mean just now?
I told you to investigate Prince Gan.
You won't go, ridiculous.
If Prince Gan really did it.
Why would he act like this?
Think about it, everyone can see the flaw.
Why would Prince Gan
deliberately do such a thing?
You mean...
Prince Gan is deliberately
showing us clues?
Not us.
But the Two Sovereigns.
Couldn't it be a smokescreen?
That's why I let Lord Sima investigate.
Where are you going?
To Pingkang Fang.
To ask Wan Shitong something.
Wan Shitong?
In the entire Chang'an.
There's nothing he doesn't know.
That human skin mask mentioned earlier.
Gave me some ideas.
Maybe he can give us some clues.
Then I'll go with you.
How about this.
You go to Prince Gan's
mansion to call Old Duan back first.
We'll meet at Pingkang Fang tonight.
Deal.
Then...
Was Prince Gan really assassinated?
No trace of the assassin.
Prince Gan's injury is not serious
I'm afraid it's just a show.
Qiuyu has sent more men
to investigate thoroughly.
Once the play starts, it
must be performed to the end.
Send some generous gifts to visit him.
He has already responded.
If we press him further.
He might rebel.
Your subordinate understands.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
The real dragon.
No matter what, we must get
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Yes
I should also prepare
to go back to Chang'an.
The situation is still chaotic.
Why not wait until the situation clears up.
Before you...
If you don't enter the tiger's den.
How can you catch the tiger's cub?
Welcome, guest.
First time here, guest?
First time, first time.
Three words and two phrases make a couple.
A night of love unspoken.
Is the honored guest from Liuli Kingdom?
Old Di.
What are you doing?
I heard Lord Di.
Is not interested in women.
I want to see how long he can hold on.
Me too.
What kind of dance do you want to see?
I can dance anything for you
I want to see.
Wan Shitong.
Early tomorrow morning.
We'll go our separate ways.
Who are you?
What do you want?
Friend, I want to ask you something.
Price is negotiable.
You scared me.
Asking for something?
Why didn't you say so earlier?
Asking me for information.
One thing, one price.
No cheating, no deception.
What do you want to ask?
Who in the Tang Dynasty can
make human skin masks now?
You want to find her?
Where is she?
Who can make them?
That's two questions.
Name your price.
Anything about Granny Chou.
Comes at a sky-high price.
So it's Granny Chou
I thought it was someone else.
Thanks.
Don't leave yet.
Honored guest, I can dance too.
That Granny Chou you mentioned is here.
Yes, in the entire Tang Dynasty.
Only a handful of people
can make human skin masks.
One of them is hiding in
Chang'an Ghost Market.
Old Di, have you brought me here before?
This place looks familiar.
Have we been here?
Or not?
You don't even know.
How would I know?
By the way.
I almost forgot to ask you.
How is Prince Gan doing?
He's fine, just a slight cut on his finger.
The kind of injury he'd
get from cutting fruit
I knew it.
He's totally acting.
Yes.
The assassin wasn't caught.
He got away.
Got away?
No clues left.
Prince Gan also said he needs to rest.
Don't disturb him.
It seems.
Prince Gan's play isn't for us.
Then who is it for?
Those who understand
the play will understand.
Those who don't don't need to watch.
All ten coins, don't touch if you don't buy.
My master.
Only buys the most expensive ones.
These are all stall goods.
Not suitable for you.
That's why we came to see the real Buddha.
To see the real Buddha.
You two look decent enough.
Then I'll let you meet him.
In the entire Tang Dynasty,
those who can customize human skin masks.
Are no more than three.
Those who can find me, Granny Chou.
Are all extraordinary people.
Granny.
My master wants to ask
for a human skin mask.
Price is negotiable.
How much?
A hundred taels of gold.
Ridiculous.
Do you know how many rare medicinal herbs.
Are needed to refine
and nourish such a mask?
Tell me, what rare medicinal herbs?
I'll supply them for you.
I thought human skin masks.
Were outside my area of expertise.
Little did I know, it's also my strong suit.
Can you talk less?
No.
Can you?
Fine.
Five hundred taels of gold.
Ten thousand taels.
How about that?
Deal, money first, then the mask.
When can I pick it up?
In a month.
Goodbye.
How dare you fool me?
My master needs it urgently.
A month is definitely too late.
If it needs to be made
according to a portrait.
First, I need to carve every detail.
Based on the portrait.
If it's just a regular disguise.
No special requirements.
Ten days is enough.
A portrait.
You provide the portrait
I'll make it according to the appearance.
At most twenty days.
Fifteen thousand taels.
Fifteen thousand?
Granny, can we see the
previous portraits first?
So that I can.
Understand the level of detail.
In my line of work
I never ask who the client is
I don't make guesses.
And I never disclose any information.
Sixteen thousand taels.
But.
I never said I couldn't
let people see the portraits.
That doesn't break the rules, does it?
Of course not.
Money first, then the portraits.
That's a lot of money.
Di Renjie, you're eating quite happily.
Sixteen thousand taels of gold.
Where are you going to get it?
The pita bread soaked in
lamb soup is so delicious.
Of course I'm happy.
Are you going to eat?
If you don't, I will.
Old Di.
Do you really have a way to
get this huge sum of money?
Of course.
Where?
Prince Gan.
Prince Gan?
It's Prince Gan's play.
Naturally, he should pay for it.
Will he pay?
Lord Di.
Prince Gan's injury is serious.
He just fell asleep after taking medicine.
Why don't you come back another day?
Please ask Prince Gan to
accept Empress Wu's order.
I'll go report again.
Thank you.
This Empress Wu's order really worked.
Assassins are rampant.
Making me disrespect Empress Wu.
Dali Temple must give me justice.
That's why.
We're here to help Prince Gan.
Catch the assassin.
Good, very good.
Once the assassin is caught.
He must be severely punished.
Yes.
The assassin disguised himself as an actor.
Trying to murder me.
These clothes are irrefutable evidence.
The assassin got away.
But left all his costumes.
All seized.
Did the assassin run away naked?
You're asking me? You're
the one from Dali Temple.
Take these things away.
Investigate them yourself.
Yes, my lord.
Where's Doctor Duan?
Why hasn't he come to
change my medicine yet?
Doctor Duan went to the
Imperial Medical Office.
To get high-quality medicinal herbs.
He'll be right back.
But.
There's still an important clue.
That hasn't been investigated yet.
But it requires some silver to bribe people.
I wonder if Prince Gan can help?
Since this case is related to me.
If I don't help.
It would be unreasonable.
Prince Gan is wise.
How much do you need?
Sixteen thousand taels of gold.
Brother Di, are you robbing me?
We're just helping Prince
Gan remove a thorn in his side.
Brother Di is free and
easy in handling things
I really appreciate it.
When will you come to assist me?
Openly recruiting me.
In front of Empress Wu's people.
In the whole world
I'm afraid only Prince Gan can be so.
Unrestrained and casual.
If these words reach Empress Wu's ears.
What will happen?
I only care about the rise
and fall of the Tang Dynasty.
Power struggles are not my strong suit.
But I know a little about solving cases.
So.
What Empress Wu will hear.
Will probably be that I fully support.
Lord Di and Lord Sima.
In solving the case.
Thank you, Prince Gan.
Later, please ask Steward Feng.
To send the silver to Dali Temple.
Alright.
If Empress Wu knows.
That I admire Lord Sima's.
Eyes so much.
Can you bear to give them to me?
Fulfill my wish.
My eyes are right here.
If Prince Gan wants them.
Feel free to come and take them.
My lord.
News just came from Luoyang.
That witch empress is
planning to return to Chang'an.
Good, very good.
The mask is ready, and we have
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
We just wait for that witch
empress to step into Chang'an.
It will be her end.
But Di Renjie is coming on strong.
No need to worry.
A man without evidence.
Is just a clown.
Has Prince Gan rested?
The incense is strong.
He's sleeping soundly now.
The body is ready.
It seems this play.
Must continue.
Yes.
Sixteen thousand taels of gold.
Not a single tael less.
These rare medicinal herbs.
Granny should be able to use them.
Consider them a small gift.
These herbs are good.
Over the years, there
have only been two masks.
Customized according to portraits.
Young man, you're generous
I'll show you both.
Wu...
Gan...
Five thousand taels.
You give...
I don't have...
If you don't have it, shut up.
Granny, to tell you the truth.
We know the man in the portrait
I don't ask about clients.
Granny, just tell us when it was made.
It was just picked up a few days ago.
Thank you, Granny.
We take our leave.
Waiter, bring me a bowl of that lamb soup.
Right away.
Lord Sima, have you thought of any clues?
Of course it's Prince Gan.
Is there any doubt?
Evidence?
The portrait is irrefutable evidence.
There are two portraits,
why are you so sure it's Prince Gan?
Could it be Empress Wu?
Blasphemy!
How dare you falsely accuse Empress Wu?
We're just discussing the case.
No need to panic, Lord Sima.
Stop wasting time.
Where are you going, Lord Sima?
To investigate Prince Gan.
Where to start?
Everywhere, investigate everything.
The woman who stole the
mace has a tattoo on her forehead.
Could she be related to Prince Gan?
She must be his person,
acting on his orders.
If it was really Prince Gan's order.
Then why would he.
Make a human skin mask of himself?
Prince Gan is scheming.
Maybe it's a trick to
catch someone off guard.
Catch who? Let who go?
In short, he's up to no good.
Full.
Full.
Where are you going?
I haven't eaten yet.
It's Prince Gan we need to look into.
Lord Di.
Prince Gan's mansion
was attacked by assassins again last night.
And set on fire.
Right now you...
Is Prince Gan okay?
Prince Gan is unharmed.
But someone was burned to death in the fire.
Prince Gan is handling many
matters at the mansion now.
He has no time to receive you now.
Who was burned to death?
Has it been reported to the authorities?
It was Steward Feng of the mansion.
Prince Gan decided to handle this himself.
No need to alert others.
Leader L, please report again.
Tell Prince Gan that Di Renjie
has important matters to discuss.
Lord Di.
Prince Gan has given an order.
Prince Gan's mansion
is under full martial law.
No one is allowed to enter.
Unless there's an imperial edict.
Such surveillance.
Is too blatant.
You.
Just let them know.
Dali Temple is watching closely.
Empress Wu has set a
date to return to Chang'an.
It seems some people can't wait anymore.
What do you mean?
Although the fire was small
/Why was it Steward Feng who died?
Have you noticed.
Anything special about Steward Feng?
Special?
His strange servant's hat.
He wore it lower and deeper.
Than most people's.
But why did he wear his hat so low?
To cover up, to hide.
Hide what?
Conceal what?
That woman who stole the mace.
Why did she have a tattoo on her forehead?
To cover the branded characters.
So.
Steward Feng also received
branding punishment?
That hat.
Was just a distraction.
But why was he burned to death?
I get it, Prince Gan's human skin mask.
Human skin mask.
Whoever can impersonate
Prince Gan without being detected.
Must be someone close to him.
Steward Feng has been secretly
imitating Prince Gan all these years.
They.
Are finding a reason for
Steward Feng to disappear.
Clever.
That way, there's no proof of death.
If the current Prince Gan
is Steward Feng in disguise.
Then where is the real Prince Gan?
Here.
Here.
My lord, just received news.
Before we arrived.
Prince Gan has already gone to court.
To court?
After the court.
Prince Gan went to Yeting Palace.
Yeting Palace?
Think again.
That woman who stole the mace.
If the tattoo on her forehead is to cover.
The branded characters.
Could it be the character "Mang" (python)?
Or "Xiao" (owl)?
It's "Xiao", the character "Xiao".
Yeting Palace, Princess Yiyang.
Daughter of Consort Xiao
Princess Yiyang?
Exactly.
Maybe on the way back
I'll go meet him.
To distinguish the real from the fake
I'll go too.
Too many people will arouse his vigilance
I'll go alone this time.
Di Renjie requests an
audience with Prince Gan.
The ancestral worship ceremony
I heard Your Highness will attend.
Prime Minister Yan insisted on inviting me
I couldn't refuse.
Aren't you planning to
return to Anzhou early?
Since I'm already here.
Might as well stay.
We'll discuss everything after the ceremony.
By the way, about that case last night.
Shouldn't Dali Temple investigate it?
It's all trivial matters.
The most urgent thing now
is to retrieve the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
I heard Your Highness went to Yeting Palace.
Just as I though.
Nothing escapes Dali Temple's notice.
Princess Yiyang has been
imprisoned in Yeting Palace.
On behalf of her mother.
She's over forty and still unmarried.
Fortunately, the Crown
Prince pleaded for her.
The Two Sovereigns showed mercy.
Finally allowing her to marry.
As her uncle.
Naturally, I should go to congratulate her.
Truly worthy of congratulations.
In that case, I'll take my leave first.
What?
A fake Prince Gan?
Is this true?
Earlier.
Prince Gan stated.
He would return to Anzhou
immediately after the ceremony.
But now it seems he intends to stay.
Moreover.
He has two bodyguards by his side.
Wearing hats as strange as Steward Feng's.
Can someone really imitate that well?
Yes, exactly like him.
Not only in appearance.
But also in voice.
He must have studied Prince
Gan's behavior meticulously.
And practiced repeatedly for a long time.
To achieve such a perfect imitation.
It must be that pair of siblings
who stole the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Can we arrest them now?
It seems the fake Prince Gan.
Must be Steward Feng.
The top priority.
Is to find out Prince Gan's safety.
If he's being held captive.
Rescuing him is the most important thing.
If he's already dead.
My lord.
Call him Prince Gan.
Prince Gan.
Your subordinate is wrong.
Speak.
He's making a fuss.
Insists on listening to opera.
Ganye Temple.
Benefactor Di, how have you been?
Could it be that Empress
Wu has returned to Chang'an?
Benefactor Di is truly intelligent.
Please come inside to talk.
Di Renjie.
Greetings to Empress Wu.
You may step down first.
I want to talk to Lord Di alone.
Yes.
Lord Di, no need to be so formal.
Thank you, Empress Wu
I know what you're worried about.
But rest assured
I won't return to Chang'an.
At the time they expect.
Empress Wu.
The current situation is delicate.
The suspect hasn't been arrested yet.
Safety should be the top priority.
Striking unexpectedly is far
more valuable than comfort.
Don't you think.
Sometimes taking risks.
Is the key to turning the tide?
How is the Zhaoling case progressing?
It seems Lord Sima has reported in detail.
Back then, I spent so
many cold and hot seasons.
In this Ganye Temple.
Finally waiting for the
opportunity to return to the palace.
But Consort Xiao and Empress Wang.
Joined forces to persecute me.
Not only killed my daughter.
But also cursed me with witchcraft.
Later.
They were imprisoned in Yeting Palace.
Their hands and feet were
cut off, soaked in wine vats,
and died a painful death.
The world says I'm cruel and ruthless.
Lord Di.
What do you think?
Justice lies in people's hearts.
Do you know.
That Consort Xiao in the wine vat.
Cursed me until her death.
Saying she would be reborn as a cat.
And I would be a mouse.
She would strangle my throat for eternity.
Tell me.
Who is more vicious?
After they died.
Their clansmen were exiled to Lingnan.
The Wang family changed
their surname to Mang.
The Xiao family changed
their surname to Xiao.
But I never thought.
Prince Gan would ally with
their remaining followers.
And raise a sword against me.
Empress Wu,
now Prince Gan has been
impersonated by a villain.
His life or death is unknown.
There's no evidence yet.
Proving their collusion.
Even Lord Di can't find evidence.
Princes and nobles who break the law.
Are punished the same as commoners.
If Prince Gan.
Truly committed crimes and rebelled.
Di Renjie will enforce the law impartially.
The Tang Dynasty is
fortunate to have Lord Di.
Indeed.
But I wonder.
What does Lord Di think of
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace?
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace
is a sacred relic of the former emperor.
When the sacred mace
returns to its rightful place.
His Majesty will naturally see clearly.
In three days.
Word of my return to Chang'an will spread.
Lord Di.
Do you think they will attack on the way?
Lord Di.
Old Di.
Why are you here?
Why did you leave Prince Gan's mansion?
We're here by order to guard Ganye Temple.
Who gave the order?
Prime Minister Yan.
You didn't know?
Don't you think.
Sometimes taking risks.
Is the key to turning the tide?
No.
Empress Wu is going to
attack Prince Gan's mansion.
What?
Prince Gan's life or death is unknown.
Attacking now
I'm afraid.
Lord Di.
What should we do now?
Do you have a plan?
Prince Gan's old costumes and masks.
Are they still there?
Those useless evidences
are all in Dali Temple.
Bring them all immediately.
Yes.
Why do you need the costumes?
Since Prince Gan started this play.
Someone has to finish it for him.
Finish the play?
You take people to find
some medicine cannons.
Find as many as possible.
Medicine cannons?
Since it's a play.
It can't do without accompaniment.
My lord.
Play music.
Play music.
Who exactly are you?
Steward Feng.
No.
It should be Steward Xiao.
Di Renjie.
Since you already know.
Why bother asking?
Not just me.
Empress Wu probably knew earlier than me.
A net has been spread.
Your plan is doomed to fail.
For the Xiao family.
Death.
Is also a kind of relief.
What a pity.
I couldn't kill that witch
empress with my own hands.
Di Renjie.
You want to save Prince Gan.
Yes.
Whether you say it or not
I have to arrest you.
Prince Gan was right about you.
This human skin mask.
Can only clear Prince Gan's name.
If it's peeled off in public.
Why help Prince Gan?
Maybe.
He can really overthrow that
witch empress in the future.
Di Renjie.
I only ask you one thing.
Speak.
Please hand me over to that witch empress.
Prince Gan.
They failed.
Moreover, Empress Wu knows everything.
Steward Xiao is dead.
Steward Xiao said.
He was grateful for Prince
Gan's kindness of taking him in.
He couldn't repay it in his lifetime.
Only by sacrificing himself this time.
Can he clear Prince Gan's name.
The wind blows and the clouds fly.
Power covers the land
and returns to the hometown.
Where can we find brave
warriors to guard the four directions?
This mace is a curse.
Give it to me.
What does Your Highness plan to do with it?
Empress Wu has sent her top experts.
Your Highness must not act recklessly.
Do you think I'm that stupid?
I'm just taking the opportunity
to stretch my muscles.
After they finish making trouble.
We'll come out calmly.
Although this human skin mask is deformed.
It's still recognizable.
It's exactly Prince Gan's appearance.
He looks neither smiling nor crying
its expression a sorrow
too profound for tears.
As if hiding a thousand
resentments and ten thousand regrets.
Empress Wu.
Greetings to His Majesty.
Empress.
Righteous brother, Lord Di.
Please rise quickly.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
Elder brother.
It's these traitors.
They not only harmed me.
But also impersonated me.
Now I'm seriously injured
I can't get up.
Come.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
The peace of the Tang Dynasty today.
Is entirely due to your two's efforts.
Such great achievements.
I will keep in mind.
What this humble minister did.
Is only my duty.
The Two Sovereigns' grace and rewards
I dare not accept.
But.
Earlier, my righteous
brother mentioned three things.
I beg for Your Majesty's decision.
My righteous brother is seriously injured.
He can return to Anzhou early to recover.
How could I not approve?
Recover in peace.
Don't worry about state affairs.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
In the Zhaoling case.
Sima Xiaodao borrowed 16,000 taels of gold
from King Qian in order to purchase a clue.
Now that the case is closed.
The national treasury should
compensate Prince Gan.
Thank you, Empress.
Your Majesty.
Back then, Emperor
Gaozu personally bestowed
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace on Yuchi Gong.
To supervise the country
and stabilize the state above.
Now this mace has reappeared in the world.
It's truly the will of heaven.
Your Majesty.
What my righteous brother asks
I have approved.
Now I bestow this mace on Lord Di.
If I and the Empress make
mistakes in governing the country.
You can hold this mace.
To remonstrate frankly.
Don't live up to my expectations.
Thank you, Your Majesty and Empress.
Your Highness clearly knows.
Empress Wu is highly wary of
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
But you let Your Majesty.
Bestow it on me.
In front of her.
I just want Empress Wu.
To study you more.
After I return to Anzhou
I can also have some peace and quiet.
Why not?
That 16,000 taels.
You can trick me.
But when it comes to money.
No discussion.
See me off.
Alright.
Distributing alms for ten days.
Everyone gets a share.
Prince Gan is really something.
The ancestral worship
ceremony hasn't started yet.
Why did he leave early?
Don't you know?
Prince Gan allied with Di.
And fought fiercely with the
descendants of Consort Xiao.
He was seriously injured and returned
I heard he broke three fingers!
Really?
Of course it's true.
But do you know.
Who has the Dragon-Suppressing Mace now?
Naturally in Lord Di's hands.
Empress Wu is so angry
she's jumping up and down.
So.
She specially arranged for Sima Xiao Dao.
To be by Lord Di's side.
Saying it's for protection.
But in fact,
it's to keep an eye on the
Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Old Di.
Did you hire these people.
To speak specifically to Lord Sima?
Prince Gan tricked us out of so much money.
Hiring a few people.
To let Lord Sima hear some truth.
Isn't a waste.
That's true
I listen to those nonsense every day.
It's nice to hear some truth occasionally.
By the way.
Don't call me Lord Sima anymore.
Just call me Xiao Dao.
Wow.
The sun is rising from the west!
sovereigns reigning together.
To the Fengshan ceremony at Mount Tai.
Empress Wu Zetian.
Etched a woman's name
atop the pinnacle of power.
With an iron fist.
Yet.
The winds rage and waves surge.
Encircled by enemies on all sides.
The ancestral worship
at Zhaoling is imminent.
A storm of accusation
before the ancestral tomb.
Has quietly begun.
Leaving no survivors.
Kill!
What's the commotion?
General.
The mechanism alarmed.
Anomaly in the northwest direction
I'll go check first.
You quickly form a team to search.
Yes.
Intruders into Zhaoling.
Die!
Still not surrendering?
General, don't you remember Wu Zhao?
Empress Wu?
Don't you kneel when you see this palace?
With what you've learned.
Even if it's just one in ten thousand.
It's enough to peek into heaven's secrets.
Go ahead and speak.
What do you see?
Not a word of lies.
Speak!
Since ancient times.
The dragon dwells in the center.
The phoenix guards its side.
Now.
The phoenix seeks to surpass the dragon.
As one fades, the other grows.
Great chaos is inevitable.
A catastrophe cannot be avoided.
Destruction precedes renewal.
Look closely.
What will be the final fate of
the phoenix and the dragon?
There is another dragon.
Who will rise at the appointed time.
If you wish to avoid disaster
and preserve yourself.
You should avoid its sharp edge.
Wait for the right time to meet again.
That is the best strategy.
Another dragon...
Don't push me!
Line up, line up.
Prince Gan has returned to Chang'an.
He's distributing alms for ten days.
Everyone will get a share!
Don't push.
Thanks to the Zhaoling ancestral worship.
Otherwise, Prince Gan would still be abroad.
As soon as he comes back,
he thinks of us commoners.
He truly has us in his heart.
What do you know?
Whether to hold the
ancestral worship or not.
It's Empress Wu who makes the decision.
If you want to thank
someone, thank Empress Wu.
Are they all grateful to Prince Gan?
Praising and thanking him profusely?
They said, "Thank you for nothing".
Not Prince Gan.
Should we thank her instead?
Over there, over there.
According to reliable sources.
Empress Wu.
Is not in good health.
She's still in Luoyang now.
Hasn't returned to Chang'an.
She doesn't want to come back.
And she dares not come back.
It's better that she doesn't.
If she really comes back.
It will be another bloodbath.
Who else does she want to kill?
She has many people she wants to kill.
But there are also
many who want to kill her
I think.
This ancestral worship.
Something big will definitely happen.
Take Prince Gan for example.
He's the one Empress Wu fears the most.
Perhaps...
What nonsense are you talking about?
Be careful you lose your head.
Please speak cautiously.
They should naturally know.
Thank His Majesty.
Enough.
Stop pretending.
You know who I'm talking about.
Eat while it's hot.
It won't taste good when it's cold.
Come, come.
It's all for you.
All for you.
Here.
Old Di, I'll see you off.
Thank you, Prince Gan.
If Empress Wu learns of our association.
What will she think?
It doesn't matter to me.
Shouldn't you be the
one worried, Prince Gan?
Dare she do anything to the Li Tang clan?
Then what is Prince Gan worried about?
By the way.
Old Di.
Can you send some men.
To protect me?
Prince Gan has a strong army.
And extraordinary martial arts skills.
Why need the Dali Temple to intervene?
Right.
Words from a beggar.
How can they be taken seriously?
Upper-class people tell lies often.
Beggars speak the truth.
Human words.
The Dali Temple is busy with affairs.
I won't disturb you further.
Surely Your Highness is busier than I am?
Preparing for the
ancestral worship ceremony.
Must be extremely tedious.
Do you think I'm willing to do it?
If it weren't for preparing the ceremony
I would have returned to Anzhou long ago.
Didn't Your Highness say you'd see me off?
I'm the one who speaks nonsense.
Upper-class people.
Return to the mansion.
Here, Old Di.
Prince Gan invited you to dinner?
Dinner?
Just speaking nonsense.
Nonsense?
Mostly things that can't be said openly.
Old Di.
You can tell.
Human words from nonsense.
But Prince Gan's actions
are clearly self-protection.
You.
Don't put much effort
into researching medicine.
But you have quite an
insight into this nonsense.
You...
What is this?
A medicine cannon.
A medicine cannon?
A formula from the Medicine King Sun Simiao.
Old Duan.
You scared me suddenly.
My heart can't take it.
It won't explode.
I just want you to see more clearly.
After thinking hard with my brilliant mind.
A little reflection.
A groundbreaking invention.
Is about to be born.
An invention?
Look carefully.
The show is about to begin.
Don't blink, Old Di.
Old Duan, did it work?
Almost there.
Truly a great show.
Lord Di.
General Quan, the guard
commander of Zhaoling,
suddenly went mad.
And destroyed the imperial mausoleum.
He's now locked in death row.
What? Destroyed the imperial mausoleum?
Old Duan, let's go.
Let's go!
Lord Di.
Quan is wronged.
Terribly wronged!
When General Quan was brought here.
He was tightly tied up.
He was as crazy as a beast then.
Didn't recognize anyone.
He's only slightly sober now.
General Quan.
What exactly happened?
Destroying the imperial
mausoleum is a capital crime.
Lord Di
iLast night, the mausoleum's
mechanism suddenly alarmed.
General, do you not remember me?
Empress Wu?
Don't you kneel when you see this palace?
Greetings to Empress Wu.
Good.
Very good.
Empress Wu, why are you here?
I came to admire the moon.
But didn't expect this moonlight.
To be overshadowed by these shabby things.
General.
Will you assist Wu Zhao?
This Quan.
Willing to die a hundred deaths.
Empress Wu.
Every word Quan says is true.
The other side must have
used some evil sorcery.
Please, Lord Di, avenge me.
That masked woman.
Pretended to be Empress Wu.
Ordered you to destroy the pagoda forest.
So you.
So I smashed.
Smashed like crazy.
Guarding the imperial mausoleum
was originally my responsibility.
But I lost my mind.
When the guards found me
I was still in a nightmare.
They can all testify for me.
Lord Di.
Avenge me.
Where are General Quan's clothes?
Old Di.
We tested the substance
on General Quan's clothes.
It's indeed an altered
hallucinogenic drug from Wushi San.
Mixed with many other rare medicinal herbs.
It seems.
What General Quan said should be true.
The mechanism alarm.
Should have been triggered by tomb robbers.
If that masked woman really robbed the tomb.
Could it be as General Quan said.
Related to that iron box?
Let's put the iron box aside for now.
The most urgent thing now
is to give Empress Wu an explanation.
We have to save General Quan's life.
Destroying the imperial mausoleum.
Is punishable by beheading.
Without key evidence
I'm afraid it's hard to save him.
General Quan.
Prepare yourself.
After I finish the morning court.
We'll go to Zhaoling.
His Majesty is unwell.
Lord Di.
Please come back.
Di has important matters to report.
Dare not leave.
The destruction of the imperial mausoleum.
Has made His Majesty
bear the name of unfilial piety.
Now His Majesty is furious.
In the morning court.
His will is clear.
Could it be.
Has Your Lordship not heard.
What's more.
This matter concerns
the Empress's reputation.
If you anger His Majesty again.
I'm afraid disaster will befall you.
Sage kings like Yao and Shun.
All cherished loyal advice.
Tyrants like Jie and Zhou.
Rejected remonstrance
and confused right and wrong
I know.
Your Majesty is a wise ruler.
Will not be blinded by personal feelings.
If out of personal fear
I let Your Majesty bear
the name of unkindness.
Di Renjie swears he cannot comply.
Let him come in.
Your Majesty.
During the Western Han Dynasty.
Someone stole the jade ring
from Changling Mausoleum.
Emperor Wen was furious.
Wanted to execute his nine clans.
But the ministers strongly remonstrated.
In the end, only the robber was beheaded.
Now General Quan accidentally
destroyed the imperial mausoleum.
There is evidence that
he was under the influence
of hallucinogenic drugs.
Although he was derelict in his duties.
His crime does not deserve death.
Your Majesty, the state has state laws.
The family has family rules.
If we abandon justice.
To preserve the names
of loyalty and filial piety.
Wouldn't that chill the
hearts of the people?
If Your Majesty, out of momentary anger.
Uses imperial power.
To override national law.
And take his life.
A hundred years later.
How will the world judge Your Majesty?
The Empress will not stand
by and let this happen either.
You went to see Prince Gan.
Your Majesty.
Since Prince Gan returned to the capital.
He has done many good deeds.
Not only helping the poor and needy.
But also treating me to a simple meal.
My righteous brother has
made great military achievements.
But he always seems a bit strange.
It seems after the ancestral worship.
I must have a good talk with him.
Your Majesty is wise.
Whether I'm wise or not.
Let history judge.
Now the ancestral worship
ceremony is imminent.
Lord Di, you must solve this case quickly.
Don't let rumors implicate
the Empress again.
I will do my utmost.
As for General Quan.
Find out the truth.
Handle it according to the law.
I'm tired, you may leave.
I take my leave.
Tell the North Gate Scholars.
"The Twelve Suggestions."
"Biographies of Exemplary Women."
Are well compiled, reward them.
Yes.
Empress Wu.
How dare someone be so bold.
As to impersonate this palace.
I wonder how similar they look.
Empress Wu's grace is unparalleled.
How can a scoundrel
imitate even a fraction of it?
Such a heinous act.
Deserves severe punishment.
Your Majesty, according
to preliminary investigation.
It should be tomb robbers
who broke into Zhaoling.
Using mechanisms or drugs in the mausoleum.
General Quan accidentally
fell under an illusion.
Hence the mistake in recognition.
I wonder what Di Renjie.
Will eventually find out.
Your Majesty is insightful.
Your son thinks.
Lord Di will uphold his duties.
And find the truth.
No one with malicious
intentions can escape the law.
The urgent report mentions.
At the time of the incident.
Prince Gan was outside
the city with Lord Di.
Distributing relief to the victims.
What a perfect alibi.
Xiao Dao, take my token.
Go to Chang'an immediately.
Assist Di Renjie in thoroughly
investigating this case.
Bring the culprit back after capture.
This palace wants to see for itself.
How similar this impersonator looks to me.
Empress Wu.
This...
It's okay.
I have capable men to protect me here.
But Chang'an is a mixed bag.
You must be careful.
Rest assured, Empress Wu.
Chang'an, Zhaoling, Dali Temple.
And the movements of all forces.
Xiao Dao will keep a close eye on.
And report at any time.
A ruler must
not only distinguish
between loyalty and treachery.
But also have the ability
to make ministers serve him.
Instead of being timid.
Or having other thoughts.
Your son will follow mother's teachings.
Study diligently.
And live up to mother's expectations.
Go.
Your son takes his leave.
Send more men.
Keep a close watch on Prince
Gan's mansion these days.
Also observe the Crown Prince's movements.
Don't let them.
Cause any more trouble.
Yes.
Old Di.
It has the same smell and texture
as on General Quan's clothes.
It's that mind-altering hallucinogenic drug.
Smell it.
Found it, found it.
Found it!
Lord Di.
The stolen imperial mausoleum.
Has been found.
It's not the imperial
mausoleum that was stolen.
But the accompanying
tomb of General Yuchi Gong,
the Loyal and Martial.
Yuchi Gong?
Exactly.
I'll go down to investigate.
You wait above to respond.
My lord, no.
Every tomb in Zhaoling
is full of mechanisms.
One wrong step.
And it's irreversible.
Who can control the mechanisms?
The mausoleum's mechanisms
are top-secret information.
Your subordinate doesn't know.
Old Di.
If you don't break the mechanisms.
You must not go down.
How about.
You go down.
Then you go.
I have an idea.
Be careful.
Old Di.
How are you?
Don't move.
Old Di.
Pull me up.
Pull!
Old Di, you're too heavy.
Old Di.
What do you think?
Logically, the imperial
mausoleum is heavily guarded.
Full of mechanisms.
Full of mechanisms.
Yes.
Who can break the mechanisms.
And rob the tomb?
Whoever can break the mechanisms.
Must be someone who
is familiar with its secrets.
No.
Old Di, if he is familiar
with Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Why would he.
Choose Yuchi Gong's
accompanying tomb specifically?
I think they're not after
gold and silver treasures.
But a specific item in Yuchi Gong's tomb.
It should be a cooperation
between two people.
One is an expert in tomb mechanisms.
The other is a martial arts expert.
Why did these two suddenly
turn against each other.
And want to kill each other?
Could it be that the man
in black was coerced here?
Stop, stop, Old Di.
Let me say something.
It's the masked woman
who held the man in
black in the tomb hostage.
General Quan mentioned earlier.
The masked woman had an iron box.
I just found a spot.
On the coffin in the
tomb that was free of dust.
Could it be.
That's where the iron box was kept before?
I get it.
First, take him hostage.
Then seize the treasure.
Then kill him.
Old Di, what exactly is in that iron box?
Do you have any medicine?
Medicine? I have some.
What kind of medicine do you need?
Medicine that can make the dead speak.
How can the dead speak?
Are you joking?
Wait, I get it again.
You mean.
Exactly.
That man in black is the
key to solving the case
I know, Old Di.
Let me say.
After he breaks the mechanisms.
The masked woman
strangles him with a long whip.
And seizes the iron box.
So.
The male corpse
is the one who is familiar
with the tomb's mechanisms?
Right?
Old...
Old Di.
Prince Gan.
Lord Di.
I heard that Prime Minister Yan.
Will inspect the fireworks and firecrackers
for the ancestral worship ceremony tonight.
By the way.
Aren't you not interested
in the preparation
of the celebration?
Prime Minister Yan personally invited
me to watch together yesterday
I couldn't refuse.
Old Di, you should be at Zhaoling right now.
Why are you here?
Nothing can escape
Prince Gan's discerning eyes.
Di Mo is here.
Because I have something
to ask for Prime Minister Yan's help.
Prince Gan, please.
Indeed, my elder brother
designed and built Zhaoling.
But the ingenuity of its mechanisms.
This case is of great importance.
Please speak frankly, Prime Minister Yan.
Those who are proficient in mechanisms.
Only the Mohist School in the world.
When Zhaoling was built.
The Mohist School was the first choice.
The Mohist School? Isn't it extinct?
Could it be.
Their challenge to the
unified imperial court.
Finally led them to decline and wither.
But there are still embers
hiding in the mountains and forests.
To build Zhaoling.
They went to great lengths.
To find people from the Mohist School.
And created a masterpiece.
Who in the world can break
Zhaoling's mechanisms?
I can't think of anyone.
That means.
Whoever can unlock Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Must be from the Mohist School.
Prime Minister Yan, the Mohist
School is now the only clue.
Please give us some guidance.
The news of the hidden Mohist School.
Is a promise I made to them back then.
If this matter is related
to the Mohist School.
Then they have violated the law.
And their crime is unforgivable.
If not.
Please speak cautiously, Lord Di.
Di understands.
The chief designer of Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Mo Lao of the Mohist School.
Now hides in the Jixian Academy.
Guarding the library.
Prince Gan, Prime Minister Yan, Old Di.
What's the matter?
Censors sent by Empress Wu have arrived.
Order you to return to
Dali Temple immediately.
What's coming will come eventually.
Prince Gan, could you
come and listen again?
No, we're incompatible.
Like fire and water.
Di Renjie, receive the order.
Di Renjie, along with all
members of Dali Temple, obeys.
Since Empress Wu and His Majesty.
Held the Fengshan ceremony at Mount Tai.
The country has been peaceful
and the people have been safe.
Peace reigns everywhere.
But as the ancestral worship
ceremony in Chang'an approaches.
The ancestral imperial mausoleum
has been invaded by tomb robbers.
This is an insult to the
monarch and unfilial piety.
Damaging Empress Wu's prestige.
The crime is heinous.
Shall not be forgiven.
Your Dali Temple.
Must work together.
To ensure the eternal
stability of the Tang Dynasty.
Lord Di.
Receive the order.
And you.
Do I have to receive the order too?
Is that necessary?
I'm just a doctor.
Is being a doctor great?
Doctors are also common people.
Sorry, Lord Xiao Dao.
You can't call me Lord Xiao Dao.
Lord Sima.
You must have had a tiring journey.
Please rest first.
No need.
Thank you, Lord Di, for detailing the case.
My lord.
My lord,
Master Zhang from the
Ministry of Works was murdered.
Master Zhang?
Killed in his own mansion.
Did Master Zhang participate
in the construction of Zhaoling?
As far as I know, he
was the deputy supervisor.
The chief designer of Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Mo Lao of the Mohist School.
Now hides in the Jixian Academy.
Guarding the library.
This is not good.
Maybe Mo Lao is in danger
I'll go check.
You take people to investigate
Master Zhang's mansion.
Yes.
Old Di.
Take this, it might counteract
the hallucinogenic drug.
Who is Mo Lao?
Jiuzong Academy.
Mo Lao of the Mohist School.
Greetings to Empress Wu.
You personally made this box back then.
Now someone is plotting
against the Tang Dynasty.
Wu Zhao.
Needs to open the box
to retrieve the treasure.
To stabilize the state.
Please help me open it, Mo Lao.
Plotting against the Tang Dynasty?
Who dares to be so bold?
Such a secret.
Mo Lao doesn't need to ask.
Just help me open this box.
And you will have made a great contribution
to the Mohist School.
A great contribution.
Alright, alright.
Mo Lao.
Who are you?
How dare you be rude to Empress Wu?
Someone help! There are assassins!
Assassins in the study!
You must be Di Renjie.
You can't hold on after just a few moves.
It's a pity that Prince
Gan values you so much.
And tries to win you over.
You're nothing special.
Prince Gan, so you're in cahoots with them?
Foolish.
Do you even believe that?
Someone come! Over here, over here!
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
How are you, Mo Lao?
I'm okay.
It's good that we got it back.
You... Are you with Prince Gan and them?
Could you be in the same group?
Since they can impersonate Empress Wu.
They can also frame Prince Gan.
Di Renjie, why aren't you chasing them?
Saving people is the priority.
Besides, we already have the iron box.
They will take the initiative
to come to us sooner or later.
Di Renjie.
Yes, Mo Lao
I'll find a doctor for you right away.
Wait.
Tell me, who broke it?
Tell me, who broke it?
Zhaoling's mechanisms of Yuchi Gong's tomb?
The one who broke the mechanisms.
Is already dead in the tomb.
He should have tried to
activate the mechanisms again.
After entering the tomb.
Hence was strangled to death.
Prime Minister Yan said.
Besides the descendants
of the Mohist School.
No one else in the world can unlock.
Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Oh no.
Oh no.
Something bad will
happen to the Mohist School.
Your subordinate knows he is guilty.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace is lost.
It's my fault.
Please punish me, my lord.
To accuse that witch empress.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace is the key.
Without this mace.
The revenge plan may fail.
My sister and I swear to
retrieve the Dragon-Suppressing Mace
I wonder how the old Mohist man's mind is.
What does my lord mean?
If he's still alive.
Do you think he will
return to the Mohist School?
The Mohist School has hidden
in the mountains and forests
since the early Tang Dynasty.
But it's not difficult for those
in power to find their hiding place.
If someone coerces my Mohist School.
To unlock Zhaoling's mechanisms.
Who could have done this
with such cruel methods?
I get it.
Everyone is kneeling in a row.
Hands tied behind their backs.
Presumably someone
was holding a knife next
to them to coerce them.
Mother, I'm scared.
I'm scared.
The Mohist School is
proficient in tomb mechanisms.
That male corpse in black in the tomb
must be from the Mohist School.
They used the lives of
more than a dozen members
of the Mohist School as leverage.
To make him go into the
tomb to retrieve something.
But after they got what they wanted.
They turned their backs.
And killed everyone.
Leaving no survivors.
Kill!
The angle of the arrow
penetration is from top to bottom.
Presumably shot from a high place.
Ancestors of the Mohist School, above.
Mo Lao is incompetent.
Failed to protect the
safety of my descendants.
After I settle my funeral affairs.
I will go to the underworld
to accept punishment.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
Mo Lao.
First return to Dali Temple.
Duan Yanxin will definitely cure you.
My time is running out.
Give me the box.
Back then, Yuchi Gong.
Foreseen that once this
item appears in the world.
It will stir up a storm.
So he took it with him as a burial object.
And entrusted my Mohist School
to make a mechanism lock for the box.
Just in case.
What Yuchi Gong did was undoubtedly correct.
But times change.
Even if this item doesn't appear.
A bloodbath will still break out.
Perhaps only this item.
Can in these turbulent times.
Turn the tide.
And ensure the safety of the Tang Dynasty.
This is...
This is the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Could this be a warning from heaven?
Back then.
Yuchi Gong followed Emperor
Gaozu to establish the world.
Amidst the upheaval.
He achieved extraordinary merits.
Emperor Gaozu personally
bestowed this exotic divine weapon.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
It can punish incompetent emperors above.
And execute traitorous ministers below.
If this mace is in the
hands of a loyal minister.
It can uphold justice.
And rectify the court.
But if this mace is seized by traitors.
The Tang Dynasty may be in imminent danger.
Tottering.
A true dragon cannot be hidden.
It will eventually emerge.
What a true dragon cannot be hidden.
Mo Lao.
Kill!
Despicable!
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace
is the key evidence in this case.
Lord Sima, why are you seizing it?
This mace is more important than we thought.
It must be presented to Empress Wu by me.
Chase!
No.
What's wrong?
There's another woman with a knife.
Could this be a diversion?
Why not hand it over to
His Majesty for disposal?
Naturally, His Majesty.
Empress Wu will pass it to His Majesty.
They will decide together.
If either Lord Di or Lord Sima survives.
We must bury the Mohist School members
I'll carry the iron box.
You take the Dragon-Suppressing Mace
and escape when the time is right.
As you said.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace
is related to the safety
of the Tang Dynasty
I hope Lord Sima.
Will think carefully.
Take this, it can counteract
the hallucinogenic drug.
Split up and chase!
Alright!
The Dragon-Suppressing
Mace is indeed on you.
Thank you very much.
Otherwise,
getting the old Mohist man
to break the mechanisms.
Would have really taken some effort.
Despicable!
Dare you fight me head-on?
Kneel when you see this palace!
Empress Wu?
Give it to me, be obedient.
No matter how you disguise yourself.
You are not even a fraction
as graceful as Empress Wu.
So you were prepared.
Die!
Lord Sima.
Lord Sima.
Lord Sima.
My lord.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Good.
You two have merit in seizing the mace
I will definitely reward you heavily.
My sister and I only want revenge.
We don't seek rewards.
Your injury.
The situation was urgent.
To seize this mace.
Xiao Xiao accidentally
lost the human skin mask.
Please punish me, my lord.
We have the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
The revenge plan is within reach.
From now on.
We will no longer live in
hiding behind this mask.
When that witch empress returns.
It will be time to settle accounts with her.
What's wrong with her?
It's a long story.
You treat her first
I'll explain later.
Leave it to me.
Presumptuous!
How dare you be rude to me?
I...
I kindly saved you.
And you hit me?
Still talking back?
Lord Sima.
You misunderstood.
Treating illness doesn't
distinguish between men and women.
Doctor Duan was just feeling your pulse.
A mere superficial wound, making a fuss.
Biting the hand that feeds you.
Not recognizing kindness.
Old Di, you shouldn't
have bothered saving her.
Enough.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace is lost.
All clues are broken.
And you're still bickering here?
Bickering?
Look at my face, it's all swollen.
Yuchi Gong rides his
horse with a spear in hand.
Holding the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
His armor shines brightly.
Full of momentum.
Crushing all sides.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace,
a treasure personally
bestowed by Emperor Gaozu.
Empress Wu.
Xiao Dao lost the mace.
Will she be punished when she retrieves it?
I know that girl Xiao Dao.
She will definitely retrieve
what she lost herself.
Yes.
Prince Gan.
Empress Wu has made a move.
That Xiao Dao sent by Empress Wu.
She's one of the orphans
adopted by Empress Wu.
Sima Xiao Dao.
She's the one who got injured.
So Empress Wu has already made a move.
Then Prince Gan.
We...
How about this, you go to Dali Temple.
Tell Di Renjie that someone
tried to assassinate me.
I wasn't killed.
But I was injured.
Urge the doctor from Dali
Temple to come for treatment.
Your subordinate understands
I'll do it right away.
She tried to confuse me.
With hallucinogenic drugs.
Fortunately, that
bottle of medicine you
gave me alleviated the effect.
It's my bottle of medicine.
If it weren't for that hallucinogenic drug.
She would never be my match, Sima Xiao Dao.
No need to thank me, Lord Xiao Dao.
You...
If you dare call me Lord Xiao Dao again
I'll cut out your tongue immediately.
Dali Temple keeps such idlers like you.
No wonder there are so many cases recently.
Yes, you're absolutely right.
No wonder Empress Wu
sent you to Dali Temple.
You lost the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
And almost drowned.
You...
I...
You two are so energetic.
Why not look for more clues instead?
Old Duan.
Did you find any clues?
I wasn't even there.
Ask her if you want to know.
Stop talking nonsense.
Fine, fine, I'll stop.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace...
Do you remember
the rotating wheel on the
Dragon-Suppressing Mace?
When it spins.
The sound it makes.
Can actually counteract
the effect of that hallucinogenic drug.
At the moment it sounded.
My mind cleared slightly.
And I tore off her human skin mask.
A human skin mask?
Yes.
Moreover, I saw her real face.
Who is she?
I don't know.
But I remember she has
a tattoo on her forehead.
A tattoo?
Any unique features?
It's a large tattoo.
It seems to hide some characters.
What characters?
I couldn't see clearly.
That tattoo is probably
to cover the characters on her forehead.
Branding punishment.
A criminal?
Not necessarily a criminal.
Branding is just an additional punishment.
Sometimes even if the family
doesn't need to go to prison.
They can't escape involvement.
One strike of the knife.
Is a lifelong humiliation.
Branded on the face.
Carved into the bones.
Involvement...
Lord Sima, do you have any other clues?
You forgot.
Forgot what?
Prince Gan values you so much.
And even tries to win you over.
Prince Gan...
Lord Di, shouldn't you
investigate Prince Gan?
Lord Di,
someone from Prince Gan's
mansion is here to see you.
Speak of the devil.
Lord Di.
Thank you, Lord Di
I'll take Doctor Duan.
Back to Prince Gan's mansion now.
Alright.
Lord Sima, why not come with us?
Lord Sima, please.
Not interested.
Goodbye.
Goodbye.
What did you mean just now?
I told you to investigate Prince Gan.
You won't go, ridiculous.
If Prince Gan really did it.
Why would he act like this?
Think about it, everyone can see the flaw.
Why would Prince Gan
deliberately do such a thing?
You mean...
Prince Gan is deliberately
showing us clues?
Not us.
But the Two Sovereigns.
Couldn't it be a smokescreen?
That's why I let Lord Sima investigate.
Where are you going?
To Pingkang Fang.
To ask Wan Shitong something.
Wan Shitong?
In the entire Chang'an.
There's nothing he doesn't know.
That human skin mask mentioned earlier.
Gave me some ideas.
Maybe he can give us some clues.
Then I'll go with you.
How about this.
You go to Prince Gan's
mansion to call Old Duan back first.
We'll meet at Pingkang Fang tonight.
Deal.
Then...
Was Prince Gan really assassinated?
No trace of the assassin.
Prince Gan's injury is not serious
I'm afraid it's just a show.
Qiuyu has sent more men
to investigate thoroughly.
Once the play starts, it
must be performed to the end.
Send some generous gifts to visit him.
He has already responded.
If we press him further.
He might rebel.
Your subordinate understands.
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
The real dragon.
No matter what, we must get
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Yes
I should also prepare
to go back to Chang'an.
The situation is still chaotic.
Why not wait until the situation clears up.
Before you...
If you don't enter the tiger's den.
How can you catch the tiger's cub?
Welcome, guest.
First time here, guest?
First time, first time.
Three words and two phrases make a couple.
A night of love unspoken.
Is the honored guest from Liuli Kingdom?
Old Di.
What are you doing?
I heard Lord Di.
Is not interested in women.
I want to see how long he can hold on.
Me too.
What kind of dance do you want to see?
I can dance anything for you
I want to see.
Wan Shitong.
Early tomorrow morning.
We'll go our separate ways.
Who are you?
What do you want?
Friend, I want to ask you something.
Price is negotiable.
You scared me.
Asking for something?
Why didn't you say so earlier?
Asking me for information.
One thing, one price.
No cheating, no deception.
What do you want to ask?
Who in the Tang Dynasty can
make human skin masks now?
You want to find her?
Where is she?
Who can make them?
That's two questions.
Name your price.
Anything about Granny Chou.
Comes at a sky-high price.
So it's Granny Chou
I thought it was someone else.
Thanks.
Don't leave yet.
Honored guest, I can dance too.
That Granny Chou you mentioned is here.
Yes, in the entire Tang Dynasty.
Only a handful of people
can make human skin masks.
One of them is hiding in
Chang'an Ghost Market.
Old Di, have you brought me here before?
This place looks familiar.
Have we been here?
Or not?
You don't even know.
How would I know?
By the way.
I almost forgot to ask you.
How is Prince Gan doing?
He's fine, just a slight cut on his finger.
The kind of injury he'd
get from cutting fruit
I knew it.
He's totally acting.
Yes.
The assassin wasn't caught.
He got away.
Got away?
No clues left.
Prince Gan also said he needs to rest.
Don't disturb him.
It seems.
Prince Gan's play isn't for us.
Then who is it for?
Those who understand
the play will understand.
Those who don't don't need to watch.
All ten coins, don't touch if you don't buy.
My master.
Only buys the most expensive ones.
These are all stall goods.
Not suitable for you.
That's why we came to see the real Buddha.
To see the real Buddha.
You two look decent enough.
Then I'll let you meet him.
In the entire Tang Dynasty,
those who can customize human skin masks.
Are no more than three.
Those who can find me, Granny Chou.
Are all extraordinary people.
Granny.
My master wants to ask
for a human skin mask.
Price is negotiable.
How much?
A hundred taels of gold.
Ridiculous.
Do you know how many rare medicinal herbs.
Are needed to refine
and nourish such a mask?
Tell me, what rare medicinal herbs?
I'll supply them for you.
I thought human skin masks.
Were outside my area of expertise.
Little did I know, it's also my strong suit.
Can you talk less?
No.
Can you?
Fine.
Five hundred taels of gold.
Ten thousand taels.
How about that?
Deal, money first, then the mask.
When can I pick it up?
In a month.
Goodbye.
How dare you fool me?
My master needs it urgently.
A month is definitely too late.
If it needs to be made
according to a portrait.
First, I need to carve every detail.
Based on the portrait.
If it's just a regular disguise.
No special requirements.
Ten days is enough.
A portrait.
You provide the portrait
I'll make it according to the appearance.
At most twenty days.
Fifteen thousand taels.
Fifteen thousand?
Granny, can we see the
previous portraits first?
So that I can.
Understand the level of detail.
In my line of work
I never ask who the client is
I don't make guesses.
And I never disclose any information.
Sixteen thousand taels.
But.
I never said I couldn't
let people see the portraits.
That doesn't break the rules, does it?
Of course not.
Money first, then the portraits.
That's a lot of money.
Di Renjie, you're eating quite happily.
Sixteen thousand taels of gold.
Where are you going to get it?
The pita bread soaked in
lamb soup is so delicious.
Of course I'm happy.
Are you going to eat?
If you don't, I will.
Old Di.
Do you really have a way to
get this huge sum of money?
Of course.
Where?
Prince Gan.
Prince Gan?
It's Prince Gan's play.
Naturally, he should pay for it.
Will he pay?
Lord Di.
Prince Gan's injury is serious.
He just fell asleep after taking medicine.
Why don't you come back another day?
Please ask Prince Gan to
accept Empress Wu's order.
I'll go report again.
Thank you.
This Empress Wu's order really worked.
Assassins are rampant.
Making me disrespect Empress Wu.
Dali Temple must give me justice.
That's why.
We're here to help Prince Gan.
Catch the assassin.
Good, very good.
Once the assassin is caught.
He must be severely punished.
Yes.
The assassin disguised himself as an actor.
Trying to murder me.
These clothes are irrefutable evidence.
The assassin got away.
But left all his costumes.
All seized.
Did the assassin run away naked?
You're asking me? You're
the one from Dali Temple.
Take these things away.
Investigate them yourself.
Yes, my lord.
Where's Doctor Duan?
Why hasn't he come to
change my medicine yet?
Doctor Duan went to the
Imperial Medical Office.
To get high-quality medicinal herbs.
He'll be right back.
But.
There's still an important clue.
That hasn't been investigated yet.
But it requires some silver to bribe people.
I wonder if Prince Gan can help?
Since this case is related to me.
If I don't help.
It would be unreasonable.
Prince Gan is wise.
How much do you need?
Sixteen thousand taels of gold.
Brother Di, are you robbing me?
We're just helping Prince
Gan remove a thorn in his side.
Brother Di is free and
easy in handling things
I really appreciate it.
When will you come to assist me?
Openly recruiting me.
In front of Empress Wu's people.
In the whole world
I'm afraid only Prince Gan can be so.
Unrestrained and casual.
If these words reach Empress Wu's ears.
What will happen?
I only care about the rise
and fall of the Tang Dynasty.
Power struggles are not my strong suit.
But I know a little about solving cases.
So.
What Empress Wu will hear.
Will probably be that I fully support.
Lord Di and Lord Sima.
In solving the case.
Thank you, Prince Gan.
Later, please ask Steward Feng.
To send the silver to Dali Temple.
Alright.
If Empress Wu knows.
That I admire Lord Sima's.
Eyes so much.
Can you bear to give them to me?
Fulfill my wish.
My eyes are right here.
If Prince Gan wants them.
Feel free to come and take them.
My lord.
News just came from Luoyang.
That witch empress is
planning to return to Chang'an.
Good, very good.
The mask is ready, and we have
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
We just wait for that witch
empress to step into Chang'an.
It will be her end.
But Di Renjie is coming on strong.
No need to worry.
A man without evidence.
Is just a clown.
Has Prince Gan rested?
The incense is strong.
He's sleeping soundly now.
The body is ready.
It seems this play.
Must continue.
Yes.
Sixteen thousand taels of gold.
Not a single tael less.
These rare medicinal herbs.
Granny should be able to use them.
Consider them a small gift.
These herbs are good.
Over the years, there
have only been two masks.
Customized according to portraits.
Young man, you're generous
I'll show you both.
Wu...
Gan...
Five thousand taels.
You give...
I don't have...
If you don't have it, shut up.
Granny, to tell you the truth.
We know the man in the portrait
I don't ask about clients.
Granny, just tell us when it was made.
It was just picked up a few days ago.
Thank you, Granny.
We take our leave.
Waiter, bring me a bowl of that lamb soup.
Right away.
Lord Sima, have you thought of any clues?
Of course it's Prince Gan.
Is there any doubt?
Evidence?
The portrait is irrefutable evidence.
There are two portraits,
why are you so sure it's Prince Gan?
Could it be Empress Wu?
Blasphemy!
How dare you falsely accuse Empress Wu?
We're just discussing the case.
No need to panic, Lord Sima.
Stop wasting time.
Where are you going, Lord Sima?
To investigate Prince Gan.
Where to start?
Everywhere, investigate everything.
The woman who stole the
mace has a tattoo on her forehead.
Could she be related to Prince Gan?
She must be his person,
acting on his orders.
If it was really Prince Gan's order.
Then why would he.
Make a human skin mask of himself?
Prince Gan is scheming.
Maybe it's a trick to
catch someone off guard.
Catch who? Let who go?
In short, he's up to no good.
Full.
Full.
Where are you going?
I haven't eaten yet.
It's Prince Gan we need to look into.
Lord Di.
Prince Gan's mansion
was attacked by assassins again last night.
And set on fire.
Right now you...
Is Prince Gan okay?
Prince Gan is unharmed.
But someone was burned to death in the fire.
Prince Gan is handling many
matters at the mansion now.
He has no time to receive you now.
Who was burned to death?
Has it been reported to the authorities?
It was Steward Feng of the mansion.
Prince Gan decided to handle this himself.
No need to alert others.
Leader L, please report again.
Tell Prince Gan that Di Renjie
has important matters to discuss.
Lord Di.
Prince Gan has given an order.
Prince Gan's mansion
is under full martial law.
No one is allowed to enter.
Unless there's an imperial edict.
Such surveillance.
Is too blatant.
You.
Just let them know.
Dali Temple is watching closely.
Empress Wu has set a
date to return to Chang'an.
It seems some people can't wait anymore.
What do you mean?
Although the fire was small
/Why was it Steward Feng who died?
Have you noticed.
Anything special about Steward Feng?
Special?
His strange servant's hat.
He wore it lower and deeper.
Than most people's.
But why did he wear his hat so low?
To cover up, to hide.
Hide what?
Conceal what?
That woman who stole the mace.
Why did she have a tattoo on her forehead?
To cover the branded characters.
So.
Steward Feng also received
branding punishment?
That hat.
Was just a distraction.
But why was he burned to death?
I get it, Prince Gan's human skin mask.
Human skin mask.
Whoever can impersonate
Prince Gan without being detected.
Must be someone close to him.
Steward Feng has been secretly
imitating Prince Gan all these years.
They.
Are finding a reason for
Steward Feng to disappear.
Clever.
That way, there's no proof of death.
If the current Prince Gan
is Steward Feng in disguise.
Then where is the real Prince Gan?
Here.
Here.
My lord, just received news.
Before we arrived.
Prince Gan has already gone to court.
To court?
After the court.
Prince Gan went to Yeting Palace.
Yeting Palace?
Think again.
That woman who stole the mace.
If the tattoo on her forehead is to cover.
The branded characters.
Could it be the character "Mang" (python)?
Or "Xiao" (owl)?
It's "Xiao", the character "Xiao".
Yeting Palace, Princess Yiyang.
Daughter of Consort Xiao
Princess Yiyang?
Exactly.
Maybe on the way back
I'll go meet him.
To distinguish the real from the fake
I'll go too.
Too many people will arouse his vigilance
I'll go alone this time.
Di Renjie requests an
audience with Prince Gan.
The ancestral worship ceremony
I heard Your Highness will attend.
Prime Minister Yan insisted on inviting me
I couldn't refuse.
Aren't you planning to
return to Anzhou early?
Since I'm already here.
Might as well stay.
We'll discuss everything after the ceremony.
By the way, about that case last night.
Shouldn't Dali Temple investigate it?
It's all trivial matters.
The most urgent thing now
is to retrieve the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
I heard Your Highness went to Yeting Palace.
Just as I though.
Nothing escapes Dali Temple's notice.
Princess Yiyang has been
imprisoned in Yeting Palace.
On behalf of her mother.
She's over forty and still unmarried.
Fortunately, the Crown
Prince pleaded for her.
The Two Sovereigns showed mercy.
Finally allowing her to marry.
As her uncle.
Naturally, I should go to congratulate her.
Truly worthy of congratulations.
In that case, I'll take my leave first.
What?
A fake Prince Gan?
Is this true?
Earlier.
Prince Gan stated.
He would return to Anzhou
immediately after the ceremony.
But now it seems he intends to stay.
Moreover.
He has two bodyguards by his side.
Wearing hats as strange as Steward Feng's.
Can someone really imitate that well?
Yes, exactly like him.
Not only in appearance.
But also in voice.
He must have studied Prince
Gan's behavior meticulously.
And practiced repeatedly for a long time.
To achieve such a perfect imitation.
It must be that pair of siblings
who stole the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Can we arrest them now?
It seems the fake Prince Gan.
Must be Steward Feng.
The top priority.
Is to find out Prince Gan's safety.
If he's being held captive.
Rescuing him is the most important thing.
If he's already dead.
My lord.
Call him Prince Gan.
Prince Gan.
Your subordinate is wrong.
Speak.
He's making a fuss.
Insists on listening to opera.
Ganye Temple.
Benefactor Di, how have you been?
Could it be that Empress
Wu has returned to Chang'an?
Benefactor Di is truly intelligent.
Please come inside to talk.
Di Renjie.
Greetings to Empress Wu.
You may step down first.
I want to talk to Lord Di alone.
Yes.
Lord Di, no need to be so formal.
Thank you, Empress Wu
I know what you're worried about.
But rest assured
I won't return to Chang'an.
At the time they expect.
Empress Wu.
The current situation is delicate.
The suspect hasn't been arrested yet.
Safety should be the top priority.
Striking unexpectedly is far
more valuable than comfort.
Don't you think.
Sometimes taking risks.
Is the key to turning the tide?
How is the Zhaoling case progressing?
It seems Lord Sima has reported in detail.
Back then, I spent so
many cold and hot seasons.
In this Ganye Temple.
Finally waiting for the
opportunity to return to the palace.
But Consort Xiao and Empress Wang.
Joined forces to persecute me.
Not only killed my daughter.
But also cursed me with witchcraft.
Later.
They were imprisoned in Yeting Palace.
Their hands and feet were
cut off, soaked in wine vats,
and died a painful death.
The world says I'm cruel and ruthless.
Lord Di.
What do you think?
Justice lies in people's hearts.
Do you know.
That Consort Xiao in the wine vat.
Cursed me until her death.
Saying she would be reborn as a cat.
And I would be a mouse.
She would strangle my throat for eternity.
Tell me.
Who is more vicious?
After they died.
Their clansmen were exiled to Lingnan.
The Wang family changed
their surname to Mang.
The Xiao family changed
their surname to Xiao.
But I never thought.
Prince Gan would ally with
their remaining followers.
And raise a sword against me.
Empress Wu,
now Prince Gan has been
impersonated by a villain.
His life or death is unknown.
There's no evidence yet.
Proving their collusion.
Even Lord Di can't find evidence.
Princes and nobles who break the law.
Are punished the same as commoners.
If Prince Gan.
Truly committed crimes and rebelled.
Di Renjie will enforce the law impartially.
The Tang Dynasty is
fortunate to have Lord Di.
Indeed.
But I wonder.
What does Lord Di think of
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace?
The Dragon-Suppressing Mace
is a sacred relic of the former emperor.
When the sacred mace
returns to its rightful place.
His Majesty will naturally see clearly.
In three days.
Word of my return to Chang'an will spread.
Lord Di.
Do you think they will attack on the way?
Lord Di.
Old Di.
Why are you here?
Why did you leave Prince Gan's mansion?
We're here by order to guard Ganye Temple.
Who gave the order?
Prime Minister Yan.
You didn't know?
Don't you think.
Sometimes taking risks.
Is the key to turning the tide?
No.
Empress Wu is going to
attack Prince Gan's mansion.
What?
Prince Gan's life or death is unknown.
Attacking now
I'm afraid.
Lord Di.
What should we do now?
Do you have a plan?
Prince Gan's old costumes and masks.
Are they still there?
Those useless evidences
are all in Dali Temple.
Bring them all immediately.
Yes.
Why do you need the costumes?
Since Prince Gan started this play.
Someone has to finish it for him.
Finish the play?
You take people to find
some medicine cannons.
Find as many as possible.
Medicine cannons?
Since it's a play.
It can't do without accompaniment.
My lord.
Play music.
Play music.
Who exactly are you?
Steward Feng.
No.
It should be Steward Xiao.
Di Renjie.
Since you already know.
Why bother asking?
Not just me.
Empress Wu probably knew earlier than me.
A net has been spread.
Your plan is doomed to fail.
For the Xiao family.
Death.
Is also a kind of relief.
What a pity.
I couldn't kill that witch
empress with my own hands.
Di Renjie.
You want to save Prince Gan.
Yes.
Whether you say it or not
I have to arrest you.
Prince Gan was right about you.
This human skin mask.
Can only clear Prince Gan's name.
If it's peeled off in public.
Why help Prince Gan?
Maybe.
He can really overthrow that
witch empress in the future.
Di Renjie.
I only ask you one thing.
Speak.
Please hand me over to that witch empress.
Prince Gan.
They failed.
Moreover, Empress Wu knows everything.
Steward Xiao is dead.
Steward Xiao said.
He was grateful for Prince
Gan's kindness of taking him in.
He couldn't repay it in his lifetime.
Only by sacrificing himself this time.
Can he clear Prince Gan's name.
The wind blows and the clouds fly.
Power covers the land
and returns to the hometown.
Where can we find brave
warriors to guard the four directions?
This mace is a curse.
Give it to me.
What does Your Highness plan to do with it?
Empress Wu has sent her top experts.
Your Highness must not act recklessly.
Do you think I'm that stupid?
I'm just taking the opportunity
to stretch my muscles.
After they finish making trouble.
We'll come out calmly.
Although this human skin mask is deformed.
It's still recognizable.
It's exactly Prince Gan's appearance.
He looks neither smiling nor crying
its expression a sorrow
too profound for tears.
As if hiding a thousand
resentments and ten thousand regrets.
Empress Wu.
Greetings to His Majesty.
Empress.
Righteous brother, Lord Di.
Please rise quickly.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
Elder brother.
It's these traitors.
They not only harmed me.
But also impersonated me.
Now I'm seriously injured
I can't get up.
Come.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
The peace of the Tang Dynasty today.
Is entirely due to your two's efforts.
Such great achievements.
I will keep in mind.
What this humble minister did.
Is only my duty.
The Two Sovereigns' grace and rewards
I dare not accept.
But.
Earlier, my righteous
brother mentioned three things.
I beg for Your Majesty's decision.
My righteous brother is seriously injured.
He can return to Anzhou early to recover.
How could I not approve?
Recover in peace.
Don't worry about state affairs.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
In the Zhaoling case.
Sima Xiaodao borrowed 16,000 taels of gold
from King Qian in order to purchase a clue.
Now that the case is closed.
The national treasury should
compensate Prince Gan.
Thank you, Empress.
Your Majesty.
Back then, Emperor
Gaozu personally bestowed
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace on Yuchi Gong.
To supervise the country
and stabilize the state above.
Now this mace has reappeared in the world.
It's truly the will of heaven.
Your Majesty.
What my righteous brother asks
I have approved.
Now I bestow this mace on Lord Di.
If I and the Empress make
mistakes in governing the country.
You can hold this mace.
To remonstrate frankly.
Don't live up to my expectations.
Thank you, Your Majesty and Empress.
Your Highness clearly knows.
Empress Wu is highly wary of
the Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
But you let Your Majesty.
Bestow it on me.
In front of her.
I just want Empress Wu.
To study you more.
After I return to Anzhou
I can also have some peace and quiet.
Why not?
That 16,000 taels.
You can trick me.
But when it comes to money.
No discussion.
See me off.
Alright.
Distributing alms for ten days.
Everyone gets a share.
Prince Gan is really something.
The ancestral worship
ceremony hasn't started yet.
Why did he leave early?
Don't you know?
Prince Gan allied with Di.
And fought fiercely with the
descendants of Consort Xiao.
He was seriously injured and returned
I heard he broke three fingers!
Really?
Of course it's true.
But do you know.
Who has the Dragon-Suppressing Mace now?
Naturally in Lord Di's hands.
Empress Wu is so angry
she's jumping up and down.
So.
She specially arranged for Sima Xiao Dao.
To be by Lord Di's side.
Saying it's for protection.
But in fact,
it's to keep an eye on the
Dragon-Suppressing Mace.
Old Di.
Did you hire these people.
To speak specifically to Lord Sima?
Prince Gan tricked us out of so much money.
Hiring a few people.
To let Lord Sima hear some truth.
Isn't a waste.
That's true
I listen to those nonsense every day.
It's nice to hear some truth occasionally.
By the way.
Don't call me Lord Sima anymore.
Just call me Xiao Dao.
Wow.
The sun is rising from the west!