Flourished Peony (2025) s01e06 Episode Script
Episode 6
Mu Dan, I have wronged you.
If you don't agree to the marriage alliance, we won't get the zixi pill.
I… I'm really at my wit's end.
Father, there's no need to blame yourself.
As long as mother can recover, I'm willing to do anything.
To have such a daughter,
what more could I ask for?
How good the husband's family is. This is a family of scholars and officials.
Why is Mu Dan just so headstrong?
Please rest assured, In-laws.
As a woman, at home, she follows her father. Once married, she follows her husband.
Since she has married into the Liu family, regardless of life or death, she belongs to the Liu family.
This time, she said she wants a divorce, it's probably just a temporary fit.
She has never mentioned this to us.
If she truly runs back home, we'll tie her up and take her back to the Liu Residence.
Master He, such an incident occurring brings shame to both families.
A marriage alliance with an official's family offers hope for your son's academic and career success.
I advise you to think carefully for the sake of your only son.
- Yes, yes.
- Yes.
I just can't bring myself to believe it. Mu Dan isn't an ungrateful child.
- How could she…
- Believe it or not,
your daughter defied her mother-in-law, neglected her husband, and took her divorce case to court.
Those are things that everyone knows.
Do you want to side with her and make a scene in court as well?
- Master He, merchants have always been lowly.
- It's okay.
If a divorce is desired, I'm afraid your entire family will lose their backbone.
That's not what I meant.
Man'er, be good. Don't cry.
Man'er.
Marriage is a woman's only destination.
The Liu family is such a fine household.
I cherish my daughter. I know that.
Mu Dan being able to marry into the Liu family is a great honor.
Of course, I hope she becomes a virtuous wife who supports her husband and raises their children well.
Mu Dan running away from home at night is an embarrassment to herself.
Indeed, it's improper.
After I find her, I will certainly instruct her well.
Please, don't dwell on past grievances and treat her well in the future.
Of course.
The Liu family is just deeply concerned.
Please lead the way then, Master He. Let's hurry to find her.
Okay.
This He Wei Fang, she better not bring disaster back home.
Father
this year, for the sake of my brother's education,
you've been repeatedly asked for money by the Liu family.
Now the business is much worse than before.
This wealth is the only thing I can leave behind.
From this moment on
I can no longer serve you again.
I'm unfilial.
The way of life you expect of me
isn't what I desire.
Here
will no longer be my home.
♫ The Luo River cleanses the ridges of the moonlight ♫
♫ Flowing into a scorching, endless river ♫
♫ A beauty refuses the temptation of the mortal world ♫
♫ Youthful splendor charts its own wandering course ♫
♫ Do not let the mundane world bind you,
nor shallow, presumptive gazes question you ♫
♫ Do not let the mundane world bind you,
nor shallow, presumptive gazes question you
♫ A blooming flower with proud spirit reflects the color of the sky ♫
♫ And never withering ♫
♫ Don’t let time tarnish the beauty of the fragrance ♫
No, this is impossible, impossible.
He Wei Fang is such a strong-willed woman.
Since she has already run away, why would she jump off a cliff to her death?!
You must be lying, right?
Are you lying?
Did you kill her? Did you kill her?!
Tell me! Did you?!
It's absolutely true. How could I deceive you?
We searched for her all the way, following the horseshoe prints to the cliff.
Only the horse and this hairpin were left by the cliff.
Young Master, she took secluded and dangerous paths. Through deep woods, heavy fog,
and in the dead of night. It's possible she fell off the cliff by accident.
You ordered it, didn't you?
She has already left. Why wouldn't you let her go?
All because of her dowry?
You're making up these lies against your conscience, aren't you?
- Master.
- Have you lost your mind?!
For a divorced woman, you slander your own parents!
Slander? What have I said that's slander?
Did you not order to have her killed or not commit murder for wealth?!
Master! Master!
Zi Shu, Madam He's fall from the cliff really has nothing to do with us.
Although people were sent out before, it was for your own good,
so that your marriage to the Princess would be without worries.
Fine, I'll ask you, is my marriage to the Princess really for me
or is it for your family glory you covet?!
I'm telling you, I don't agree with this marriage!
If you can bear the shame, go ahead and tie me up!
All right. You have been rebellious lately.
You've done everything to dishonor the clan.
I can't discipline you anymore. Bring the disciplinary cane.
At worst, beat him to death to give Prince Ning and the Princess an explanation.
Okay! Beat me.
I'll compensate her with my life!
Zi Shu! Master, no.
Go!
Yes, Master.
Master.
Zi Shu!
Master, just give in. She's already dead.
- Why should you suffer like this?
- I said I won't marry her!
Master!
Bring it here!
Rebel, do you really think I don't have the heart to beat you to death?
Master.
I have no private affair with the Princess. I've already severed my feelings for her.
If a marriage is forced, it'll only wrong her and even more so, myself!
Don't hit him anymore! My son.
My son.
Regardless of whether you had an affair, rumors have already spread.
If you don't get married, how will you settle this?
If you won’t care for the Princess's devotion and dignity, then what about your own?
Carrying such a bad name. Years of hard study will just go to waste.
Official career, economic benefits, fame, or fortune, will no longer be within your reach.
This is truly what wrongs you.
What about my heart then?
Having lived so long, when have I ever had things go my way?
From the trivial matters of clothing, food, accommodation, travel, and social engagements
to significant matters like seeking teachers and education, dreams, and aspirations,
even getting official ranks and titles, what position I should take has been decided by you both.
My marriage has already been arranged once.
Now it'll be arranged for a second time!
Why? On what grounds?!
Everything we've done, what hasn't been for your own good?
Our Liu family has given our all
for the sake of enabling you to be appointed to a first-rank position and rise rapidly.
How do you repay us?
Master, Master.
Could a good marriage cost you your life?
If Prince Ning feels his daughter has been wronged, he could accuse you of the crime of seduction.
Our entire Liu family would all be implicated.
Back then, your willfulness and indulgence led to our Liu family being demoted and sent away from Chang'an.
Now if I don't decide for you,
our entire Liu clan will surely be forced onto a path of no return.
Zi Shu has always been stubborn in words but soft at heart.
He's the most filial. He's doing this to consent.
He's consented, okay?
Notify the County Magistrate immediately
that Madam He, grief-stricken, fell off a cliff, her body was never found.
Send another letter to inform the Princess.
Quickly bring in the matchmaker.
Bring the betrothal gifts and set out for Chang'an.
Yes. I will.
Sorry to have disturbed you. I'm passing by.
I'll take my leave.
♫ On the endless road to Chang'an,
the zither and lute's melody echoes from afar ♫
- Waiter, a pot of wine.
- Here, take these.
♫ As splendor returns this year ♫
♫ Copper battlements shine atop the palace
as songs and dances fill the air and glasses are raised ♫
♫ Idle clouds and drifting duckweed, with a thousand flowers blooming ♫
Thank you.
♫ Time flows gracefully, with moments gathering in the fading mist ♫
♫ Let the years pass, carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
Yu Lu.
We'll soon arrive at the Fragrance Garden.
Fragrance Garden was passed from my grandmother to my mother and from my mother to me.
Mu Dan, I plan to leave this garden to you in the future.
The roots of this flower are delicate. It can only draw limited nutrients.
The buds on this side branch will only consume nutrients.
Not only will they not bloom, but the flowers on this main stem will also be affected.
You're still little. You'll understand when you grow up.
Sometimes there will be hardships.
By choosing and letting go, the flower will bloom more brightly.
Being a person is the same.
I'm not afraid of the hard work and hardship.
When I grow up, I'll grow even more beautiful flowers for you to see.
You're so good.
♫ Carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
Bravo!
Bravo!
Mother, though the promises of the past cannot be fulfilled,
I'll carry on your legacy, ensuring the flowers of Fragrance Garden bloom endlessly.
Be known by all.
I'll be as you hoped, fearless in the face of hardship and constantly letting go.
I'll live a free and joyful life as He Wei Fang.
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
[Fragrance Garden]
Coming!
What brings you knocking?
You must be new here.
I'm the owner here.
You've got the wrong door.
I haven't been here for a long time. It's normal you don't recognize me.
Where is Steward Gao? Call Steward Gao to see me.
There is no Steward Gao here. If you keep blocking the door, I'll call the authorities.
[Fragrance Garden]
May Buddha bless my beloved daughter Mu Dan
with peace, good health, and a bright future ahead.
Mother.
The light of hope you lit is still shining in my heart.
I'll surely create a foothold in Chang'an.
With my own two hands, I'll take back Fragrance Garden.
[Market Open]
[Market Open]
[Market Open]
Soy milk!
Steamed buns and sesame cakes!
Fine sesame seeds!
Buy two slaves get one free!
[]
[Recruiting Talents]
Nothing you say will work. It really won't work.
Shopkeeper, how about this? I can do the work of two people alone. Wages aren't a problem.
- Hurry along now.
- I really can do anything.
Without a household registration, what job can you find? Move along quickly.
I can do anything. Please reconsider.
Miss, our shop really isn't hiring. You should look elsewhere.
If the higher-ups find out we hired an undocumented worker, we’ll face severe penalties.
You, better hurry along now, go.
Shopkeeper, I'll find a way to sort out my household registration.
- Would you accommodate me for a few days?
- How could that work?
Come back when you have a household registration. All right? Go on.
If you ever need me, notify me at any time.
Farewell.
Don't come back in the future!
You've come, Miss.
Come on, please come inside.
Miss, our shop really can't hire someone without a household registration.
You should go try other people's places.
Sir, come and have a look.
Thank you for your time.
Masks of exceptional craftsmanship.
Ladies, take a look at the masks.
Have a look, they are well-made.
Masks of exceptional craftsmanship.
Warding off evil and bringing auspiciousness.
Protecting and ensuring good health. Hurry and take a look.
- Be quick, you all.
- Sir, this way.
- Everyone, be careful not to bump into things.
- Make way, please.
- Sir, fetch some water.
- Coming right up.
Why can men do it and I can't?
Thank you very much.
Miss, what kind of wine would you like?
Please take a seat.
I'm not here to drink. I was just standing at the door.
It's such a large tavern. It's just you, busy inside and out.
It's truly hard work.
Would you considered hiring an assistant like me?
A small family business doesn't need outsiders. You can go now.
- The wages don't really matter. I can
- Miss.
No need to say more. Please leave quickly.
Miss, please wait.
- On regular days in the tavern, only Fifth Miss manages it alone.
- Thank you.
It's indeed hard work.
She has no kin in Chang'an.
Nor does she have a household registration. It's truly not easy.
We definitely want to lend a hand.
Rest assured, I can do any dirty or tiring job.
Our tavern's business is just average. I'm afraid we can't afford…
With a new face, business might pick up.
Why not try it out for a month?
- All right.
- Darling, we…
It's settled.
Go on with your business.
My wife is a bit cold by nature. Don't take it to heart.
I won't.
Fifth Miss was right just now.
Our small business is already tight. Employing you carries a risk.
As for the wages, I can only offer thirty percent of what other shops give.
Thirty percent?
Isn't thirty percent too little?
I have a vacant room in my tavern. It includes board and lodging.
Apart from me, I'm afraid no other owner would dare hire an undocumented worker.
One dou of rice costs twenty wen.
I only eat two flatbreads a day plus a bowl of rice porridge.
I also need an extra set of robes for changing.
I can arrange my own accommodation.
Is it possible to convert food and lodging into cash for me?
This way, every month, you could give me an additional 150 wen. Would that be acceptable?
- You know how to calculate things?
- I have a slight understanding of literacy.
You can hand over the matters of accounting and bookkeeping entirely to me.
I won't make any mistakes.
If you would sell me this jade abacus, I can give you 500 wen a month.
I'm not selling this.
450 wen a month.
If you agree, I'll stay. If not, so be it.
What if I say I could arrange a household registration for you?
You and I have met by chance.
Other shop owners, upon hearing of my situation, dare not hire me.
Why do you have such good intentions?
I love jade ware the most.
Although your abacus isn't considered precious, it's lustrous and exquisite.
It has greatly won my heart.
I have some connections in the government.
If you would pledge this abacus to me, I'm willing to help you take care of official matters.
Within one month, you could have a household registration document processed.
With household registration, finding any job will no longer be difficult.
You're intelligent.
Why cling to an inanimate object?
I can pledge this object to you.
Please draw up a written agreement.
Also, regarding my wages, could you settle them with me daily?
No problem.
I'll go get paper and a brush right now.
- Please sit for a while.
- Thank you, Shopkeeper.
Take care you two.
This is for this table.
All right.
Fifth Miss, there's something in your hair.
You have ash in your hair.
You just earned a bit of money. And you smashed all of it gone.
You don't look like someone who works.
Menial service work isn't suitable for you.
Better to go back where you came from.
Don't be an eyesore here anymore.
Deduct the money for these bowls from my wages.
Fifth Miss, I don't understand why you have such great hostility towards me.
I came here just to earn a little money to support myself.
I'll work even harder and hope to eliminate your prejudice against me as soon as possible.
What happened here?
Mu Dan is clumsy.
She dropped the wine bowls all over the floor.
Purchasing new utensils is yet another major expense. This woman is simply a loss-maker.
Darling, let her leave the tavern.
I just said the money for these bowls should be deducted from my wages.
Since Mu Dan is willing to compensate them, let's forget about it.
She steals too. This is what I found on her.
When it was busy during the day, she stole it from me.
How can you spout nonsense like that? Why are you always targeting me?
Darling, this woman is insatiably greedy and she steals.
She'll eventually squander the tavern's savings. She absolutely cannot stay.
- Is this true?
- No.
I kindly took you in and you repay kindness with enmity.
She clearly bumped into me on purpose just now, which caused these bowls to shatter on the floor.
I kept silent about it. Now I'm falsely accused of theft.
I know you may not believe me, but I haven't told a single lie.
I believe you.
Fifth Miss, you're trying to drive Mu Dan away, right?
I…
After Mu Dan came, business has improved a lot.
If you insist on tripping her up, it's our own business that will suffer.
Don't be so willful in the future.
Mu Dan, you've been wronged.
You understand the situation. It'll be fine as long as this matter is explained clearly.
Carry on with your work.
What exactly are Wang Qing and his wife planning?
Forget it, just be more careful.
After I get the household registration, everything will be easier.
All for you!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
How much is this flower worth?
If you really want to support us, why not throw some money on stage?
What a bold statement!
We're afraid that throwing gold nuggets up there might break open your head.
- Everyone, isn't that so?
- Right.
My waist is very flexible. Young Master, why don't you try throwing one?
Give it a try!
Okay.
- Nice.
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
Come on.
My Young Master wishes to enjoy the Huxuan dance alone.
Everyone, please come back another day.
- You have quite the nerve.
- Exactly.
Is this establishment yours? So if you say leave, I should leave?
I'd like to see who your young master is, daring to tell me to leave.
Please forgive me, Floral Envoy.
- I'll leave right away.
- Forgive us, Floral Envoy.
Continue the music.
Continue dancing.
You grace us with your presence. This humble tavern of mine is greatly honored.
We have private rooms here.
How about you go to one?
If it's like this, I really can't do business now.
The private room is cramped and stuffy. It's certainly not as spacious as here.
My young master wishes for all the dancing girls to dance for him today.
Others must not disturb him.
You're silent.
Are you calculating how much money you can make from me
or are you thinking about how to take my life,
Eldest Master Chu?
I have important matters to discuss with the Floral Envoy.
Please leave first.
Jiang, you dog, you found me today. It's my incompetence.
If you want to kill me, just do it!
Why does your Integrity Society always say this line?
Even the boss is no exception. How boring.
Da Bei and the others were late in returning. Sure enough, you've captured them.
What have you done to them?
I sent them to kill you.
If you want to vent, kill me! Let them go!
I want to capture the assassin who targeted a court official. I brought official soldiers with me today.
What exactly do you want to do?
In just a few years, the Integrity Society has grown this strong.
You as a leader do have some talent.
You're loyal to buddies. You're not afraid of death. And you can rally people's hearts.
Why not bring your men and assets under my command?
Bah!
Keep dreaming!
I will never be a lapdog for a corrupt official like you.
Your impatient nature really runs in the society.
Whether you're willing or not,
read the letter first, then make your decision.
[Letter from Da Bei]
How is this possible?
Who could possibly forge Da Bei's chicken scratch?
If you still don't believe it, take a trip to Kaiyuan Temple tomorrow.
Da Bei will be waiting for you there.
Young Master.
Eldest Master Chu has discussed it with Da Bei. They're willing to join us.
We've recruited a group of like-minded people. We now have informants in the West Market.
In the future, many tasks will be much easier to handle.
Thank you, Young Master.
It's still early. Did you want to head to Huanyun Tower in the East Market or the nomadic tavern in the West Market?
If you go to the same place two days in a row,
others will surely think you have been charmed by the alluring Huxuan dance.
It's just going around in circles more.
It's not very interesting and noisy too.
Go to Huanyun Tower.
Ever since returning from Luoyang, you keep muttering it's boring, it's not interesting.
Is it that you find Chang'an itself uninteresting or is it the beauties of Chang'an dull?
Go get the carriage.
Shopkeeper.
Call on me for such heavy work in the future.
No need, I can do it myself. No need to trouble you.
You've been here for half a month already. Why do you still act like an outsider?
Yes, I've been here for half a month now.
The household registration you promised me before. Has it not been arranged yet?
There have been many refugees recently. The government offices have been very busy.
It'll take a few more days.
For you, a young girl, making a living in Chang'an is too difficult.
Have you considered switching to an easier way to live?
In the future, don't call me "Shopkeeper" anymore.
Just call me Young Master Qing, all right? I'll surely treat you well.
Shopkeeper, you've had too much to drink today.
I'll regard what was said today as if I never heard it.
If you don't want to be a concubine, I can sell Fifth Miss and take you as my legal wife.
- From now on, all the family business here will belong to both of us.
- Absolutely impossible!
- Let go of me!
- You, a person without even a household registration, what high ground are you pretending to stand on?
Let’s see what’s tougher, your stubbornness or my fists.
Stop beating me!
I agree. I beg you, stop beating me.
'Fragrance Recital' - Zhang Zining
♫ On the endless road to Chang'an,
the zither and lute's melody echoes from afar ♫
♫ Plum and willow trees greet the Spring,
as splendor returns this year ♫
♫ Copper battlements shine atop the palace
as songs and dances fill the air and glasses are raised ♫
♫ Idle clouds and drifting duckweed, with a thousand flowers blooming ♫
♫ Time flows gracefully, with moments gathering in the fading mist ♫
♫ Let the years pass, carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
♫ The distant night sky, scattered with stars, reflects the gentle moon ♫
♫ The peony's exquisite beauty fills the fragrant garden ♫
♫ With my heart as a lantern, I fear not the journey through distant mountain paths ♫
♫ The jade flute's music fills a fleeting life with meaning ♫
♫ Time flows gracefully, with moments gathering in the fading mist ♫
♫ Let the years pass, carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
If you don't agree to the marriage alliance, we won't get the zixi pill.
I… I'm really at my wit's end.
Father, there's no need to blame yourself.
As long as mother can recover, I'm willing to do anything.
To have such a daughter,
what more could I ask for?
How good the husband's family is. This is a family of scholars and officials.
Why is Mu Dan just so headstrong?
Please rest assured, In-laws.
As a woman, at home, she follows her father. Once married, she follows her husband.
Since she has married into the Liu family, regardless of life or death, she belongs to the Liu family.
This time, she said she wants a divorce, it's probably just a temporary fit.
She has never mentioned this to us.
If she truly runs back home, we'll tie her up and take her back to the Liu Residence.
Master He, such an incident occurring brings shame to both families.
A marriage alliance with an official's family offers hope for your son's academic and career success.
I advise you to think carefully for the sake of your only son.
- Yes, yes.
- Yes.
I just can't bring myself to believe it. Mu Dan isn't an ungrateful child.
- How could she…
- Believe it or not,
your daughter defied her mother-in-law, neglected her husband, and took her divorce case to court.
Those are things that everyone knows.
Do you want to side with her and make a scene in court as well?
- Master He, merchants have always been lowly.
- It's okay.
If a divorce is desired, I'm afraid your entire family will lose their backbone.
That's not what I meant.
Man'er, be good. Don't cry.
Man'er.
Marriage is a woman's only destination.
The Liu family is such a fine household.
I cherish my daughter. I know that.
Mu Dan being able to marry into the Liu family is a great honor.
Of course, I hope she becomes a virtuous wife who supports her husband and raises their children well.
Mu Dan running away from home at night is an embarrassment to herself.
Indeed, it's improper.
After I find her, I will certainly instruct her well.
Please, don't dwell on past grievances and treat her well in the future.
Of course.
The Liu family is just deeply concerned.
Please lead the way then, Master He. Let's hurry to find her.
Okay.
This He Wei Fang, she better not bring disaster back home.
Father
this year, for the sake of my brother's education,
you've been repeatedly asked for money by the Liu family.
Now the business is much worse than before.
This wealth is the only thing I can leave behind.
From this moment on
I can no longer serve you again.
I'm unfilial.
The way of life you expect of me
isn't what I desire.
Here
will no longer be my home.
♫ The Luo River cleanses the ridges of the moonlight ♫
♫ Flowing into a scorching, endless river ♫
♫ A beauty refuses the temptation of the mortal world ♫
♫ Youthful splendor charts its own wandering course ♫
♫ Do not let the mundane world bind you,
nor shallow, presumptive gazes question you ♫
♫ Do not let the mundane world bind you,
nor shallow, presumptive gazes question you
♫ A blooming flower with proud spirit reflects the color of the sky ♫
♫ And never withering ♫
♫ Don’t let time tarnish the beauty of the fragrance ♫
No, this is impossible, impossible.
He Wei Fang is such a strong-willed woman.
Since she has already run away, why would she jump off a cliff to her death?!
You must be lying, right?
Are you lying?
Did you kill her? Did you kill her?!
Tell me! Did you?!
It's absolutely true. How could I deceive you?
We searched for her all the way, following the horseshoe prints to the cliff.
Only the horse and this hairpin were left by the cliff.
Young Master, she took secluded and dangerous paths. Through deep woods, heavy fog,
and in the dead of night. It's possible she fell off the cliff by accident.
You ordered it, didn't you?
She has already left. Why wouldn't you let her go?
All because of her dowry?
You're making up these lies against your conscience, aren't you?
- Master.
- Have you lost your mind?!
For a divorced woman, you slander your own parents!
Slander? What have I said that's slander?
Did you not order to have her killed or not commit murder for wealth?!
Master! Master!
Zi Shu, Madam He's fall from the cliff really has nothing to do with us.
Although people were sent out before, it was for your own good,
so that your marriage to the Princess would be without worries.
Fine, I'll ask you, is my marriage to the Princess really for me
or is it for your family glory you covet?!
I'm telling you, I don't agree with this marriage!
If you can bear the shame, go ahead and tie me up!
All right. You have been rebellious lately.
You've done everything to dishonor the clan.
I can't discipline you anymore. Bring the disciplinary cane.
At worst, beat him to death to give Prince Ning and the Princess an explanation.
Okay! Beat me.
I'll compensate her with my life!
Zi Shu! Master, no.
Go!
Yes, Master.
Master.
Zi Shu!
Master, just give in. She's already dead.
- Why should you suffer like this?
- I said I won't marry her!
Master!
Bring it here!
Rebel, do you really think I don't have the heart to beat you to death?
Master.
I have no private affair with the Princess. I've already severed my feelings for her.
If a marriage is forced, it'll only wrong her and even more so, myself!
Don't hit him anymore! My son.
My son.
Regardless of whether you had an affair, rumors have already spread.
If you don't get married, how will you settle this?
If you won’t care for the Princess's devotion and dignity, then what about your own?
Carrying such a bad name. Years of hard study will just go to waste.
Official career, economic benefits, fame, or fortune, will no longer be within your reach.
This is truly what wrongs you.
What about my heart then?
Having lived so long, when have I ever had things go my way?
From the trivial matters of clothing, food, accommodation, travel, and social engagements
to significant matters like seeking teachers and education, dreams, and aspirations,
even getting official ranks and titles, what position I should take has been decided by you both.
My marriage has already been arranged once.
Now it'll be arranged for a second time!
Why? On what grounds?!
Everything we've done, what hasn't been for your own good?
Our Liu family has given our all
for the sake of enabling you to be appointed to a first-rank position and rise rapidly.
How do you repay us?
Master, Master.
Could a good marriage cost you your life?
If Prince Ning feels his daughter has been wronged, he could accuse you of the crime of seduction.
Our entire Liu family would all be implicated.
Back then, your willfulness and indulgence led to our Liu family being demoted and sent away from Chang'an.
Now if I don't decide for you,
our entire Liu clan will surely be forced onto a path of no return.
Zi Shu has always been stubborn in words but soft at heart.
He's the most filial. He's doing this to consent.
He's consented, okay?
Notify the County Magistrate immediately
that Madam He, grief-stricken, fell off a cliff, her body was never found.
Send another letter to inform the Princess.
Quickly bring in the matchmaker.
Bring the betrothal gifts and set out for Chang'an.
Yes. I will.
Sorry to have disturbed you. I'm passing by.
I'll take my leave.
♫ On the endless road to Chang'an,
the zither and lute's melody echoes from afar ♫
- Waiter, a pot of wine.
- Here, take these.
♫ As splendor returns this year ♫
♫ Copper battlements shine atop the palace
as songs and dances fill the air and glasses are raised ♫
♫ Idle clouds and drifting duckweed, with a thousand flowers blooming ♫
Thank you.
♫ Time flows gracefully, with moments gathering in the fading mist ♫
♫ Let the years pass, carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
Yu Lu.
We'll soon arrive at the Fragrance Garden.
Fragrance Garden was passed from my grandmother to my mother and from my mother to me.
Mu Dan, I plan to leave this garden to you in the future.
The roots of this flower are delicate. It can only draw limited nutrients.
The buds on this side branch will only consume nutrients.
Not only will they not bloom, but the flowers on this main stem will also be affected.
You're still little. You'll understand when you grow up.
Sometimes there will be hardships.
By choosing and letting go, the flower will bloom more brightly.
Being a person is the same.
I'm not afraid of the hard work and hardship.
When I grow up, I'll grow even more beautiful flowers for you to see.
You're so good.
♫ Carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
Bravo!
Bravo!
Mother, though the promises of the past cannot be fulfilled,
I'll carry on your legacy, ensuring the flowers of Fragrance Garden bloom endlessly.
Be known by all.
I'll be as you hoped, fearless in the face of hardship and constantly letting go.
I'll live a free and joyful life as He Wei Fang.
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
[Fragrance Garden]
Coming!
What brings you knocking?
You must be new here.
I'm the owner here.
You've got the wrong door.
I haven't been here for a long time. It's normal you don't recognize me.
Where is Steward Gao? Call Steward Gao to see me.
There is no Steward Gao here. If you keep blocking the door, I'll call the authorities.
[Fragrance Garden]
May Buddha bless my beloved daughter Mu Dan
with peace, good health, and a bright future ahead.
Mother.
The light of hope you lit is still shining in my heart.
I'll surely create a foothold in Chang'an.
With my own two hands, I'll take back Fragrance Garden.
[Market Open]
[Market Open]
[Market Open]
Soy milk!
Steamed buns and sesame cakes!
Fine sesame seeds!
Buy two slaves get one free!
[]
[Recruiting Talents]
Nothing you say will work. It really won't work.
Shopkeeper, how about this? I can do the work of two people alone. Wages aren't a problem.
- Hurry along now.
- I really can do anything.
Without a household registration, what job can you find? Move along quickly.
I can do anything. Please reconsider.
Miss, our shop really isn't hiring. You should look elsewhere.
If the higher-ups find out we hired an undocumented worker, we’ll face severe penalties.
You, better hurry along now, go.
Shopkeeper, I'll find a way to sort out my household registration.
- Would you accommodate me for a few days?
- How could that work?
Come back when you have a household registration. All right? Go on.
If you ever need me, notify me at any time.
Farewell.
Don't come back in the future!
You've come, Miss.
Come on, please come inside.
Miss, our shop really can't hire someone without a household registration.
You should go try other people's places.
Sir, come and have a look.
Thank you for your time.
Masks of exceptional craftsmanship.
Ladies, take a look at the masks.
Have a look, they are well-made.
Masks of exceptional craftsmanship.
Warding off evil and bringing auspiciousness.
Protecting and ensuring good health. Hurry and take a look.
- Be quick, you all.
- Sir, this way.
- Everyone, be careful not to bump into things.
- Make way, please.
- Sir, fetch some water.
- Coming right up.
Why can men do it and I can't?
Thank you very much.
Miss, what kind of wine would you like?
Please take a seat.
I'm not here to drink. I was just standing at the door.
It's such a large tavern. It's just you, busy inside and out.
It's truly hard work.
Would you considered hiring an assistant like me?
A small family business doesn't need outsiders. You can go now.
- The wages don't really matter. I can
- Miss.
No need to say more. Please leave quickly.
Miss, please wait.
- On regular days in the tavern, only Fifth Miss manages it alone.
- Thank you.
It's indeed hard work.
She has no kin in Chang'an.
Nor does she have a household registration. It's truly not easy.
We definitely want to lend a hand.
Rest assured, I can do any dirty or tiring job.
Our tavern's business is just average. I'm afraid we can't afford…
With a new face, business might pick up.
Why not try it out for a month?
- All right.
- Darling, we…
It's settled.
Go on with your business.
My wife is a bit cold by nature. Don't take it to heart.
I won't.
Fifth Miss was right just now.
Our small business is already tight. Employing you carries a risk.
As for the wages, I can only offer thirty percent of what other shops give.
Thirty percent?
Isn't thirty percent too little?
I have a vacant room in my tavern. It includes board and lodging.
Apart from me, I'm afraid no other owner would dare hire an undocumented worker.
One dou of rice costs twenty wen.
I only eat two flatbreads a day plus a bowl of rice porridge.
I also need an extra set of robes for changing.
I can arrange my own accommodation.
Is it possible to convert food and lodging into cash for me?
This way, every month, you could give me an additional 150 wen. Would that be acceptable?
- You know how to calculate things?
- I have a slight understanding of literacy.
You can hand over the matters of accounting and bookkeeping entirely to me.
I won't make any mistakes.
If you would sell me this jade abacus, I can give you 500 wen a month.
I'm not selling this.
450 wen a month.
If you agree, I'll stay. If not, so be it.
What if I say I could arrange a household registration for you?
You and I have met by chance.
Other shop owners, upon hearing of my situation, dare not hire me.
Why do you have such good intentions?
I love jade ware the most.
Although your abacus isn't considered precious, it's lustrous and exquisite.
It has greatly won my heart.
I have some connections in the government.
If you would pledge this abacus to me, I'm willing to help you take care of official matters.
Within one month, you could have a household registration document processed.
With household registration, finding any job will no longer be difficult.
You're intelligent.
Why cling to an inanimate object?
I can pledge this object to you.
Please draw up a written agreement.
Also, regarding my wages, could you settle them with me daily?
No problem.
I'll go get paper and a brush right now.
- Please sit for a while.
- Thank you, Shopkeeper.
Take care you two.
This is for this table.
All right.
Fifth Miss, there's something in your hair.
You have ash in your hair.
You just earned a bit of money. And you smashed all of it gone.
You don't look like someone who works.
Menial service work isn't suitable for you.
Better to go back where you came from.
Don't be an eyesore here anymore.
Deduct the money for these bowls from my wages.
Fifth Miss, I don't understand why you have such great hostility towards me.
I came here just to earn a little money to support myself.
I'll work even harder and hope to eliminate your prejudice against me as soon as possible.
What happened here?
Mu Dan is clumsy.
She dropped the wine bowls all over the floor.
Purchasing new utensils is yet another major expense. This woman is simply a loss-maker.
Darling, let her leave the tavern.
I just said the money for these bowls should be deducted from my wages.
Since Mu Dan is willing to compensate them, let's forget about it.
She steals too. This is what I found on her.
When it was busy during the day, she stole it from me.
How can you spout nonsense like that? Why are you always targeting me?
Darling, this woman is insatiably greedy and she steals.
She'll eventually squander the tavern's savings. She absolutely cannot stay.
- Is this true?
- No.
I kindly took you in and you repay kindness with enmity.
She clearly bumped into me on purpose just now, which caused these bowls to shatter on the floor.
I kept silent about it. Now I'm falsely accused of theft.
I know you may not believe me, but I haven't told a single lie.
I believe you.
Fifth Miss, you're trying to drive Mu Dan away, right?
I…
After Mu Dan came, business has improved a lot.
If you insist on tripping her up, it's our own business that will suffer.
Don't be so willful in the future.
Mu Dan, you've been wronged.
You understand the situation. It'll be fine as long as this matter is explained clearly.
Carry on with your work.
What exactly are Wang Qing and his wife planning?
Forget it, just be more careful.
After I get the household registration, everything will be easier.
All for you!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
How much is this flower worth?
If you really want to support us, why not throw some money on stage?
What a bold statement!
We're afraid that throwing gold nuggets up there might break open your head.
- Everyone, isn't that so?
- Right.
My waist is very flexible. Young Master, why don't you try throwing one?
Give it a try!
Okay.
- Nice.
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
- Bravo!
Come on.
My Young Master wishes to enjoy the Huxuan dance alone.
Everyone, please come back another day.
- You have quite the nerve.
- Exactly.
Is this establishment yours? So if you say leave, I should leave?
I'd like to see who your young master is, daring to tell me to leave.
Please forgive me, Floral Envoy.
- I'll leave right away.
- Forgive us, Floral Envoy.
Continue the music.
Continue dancing.
You grace us with your presence. This humble tavern of mine is greatly honored.
We have private rooms here.
How about you go to one?
If it's like this, I really can't do business now.
The private room is cramped and stuffy. It's certainly not as spacious as here.
My young master wishes for all the dancing girls to dance for him today.
Others must not disturb him.
You're silent.
Are you calculating how much money you can make from me
or are you thinking about how to take my life,
Eldest Master Chu?
I have important matters to discuss with the Floral Envoy.
Please leave first.
Jiang, you dog, you found me today. It's my incompetence.
If you want to kill me, just do it!
Why does your Integrity Society always say this line?
Even the boss is no exception. How boring.
Da Bei and the others were late in returning. Sure enough, you've captured them.
What have you done to them?
I sent them to kill you.
If you want to vent, kill me! Let them go!
I want to capture the assassin who targeted a court official. I brought official soldiers with me today.
What exactly do you want to do?
In just a few years, the Integrity Society has grown this strong.
You as a leader do have some talent.
You're loyal to buddies. You're not afraid of death. And you can rally people's hearts.
Why not bring your men and assets under my command?
Bah!
Keep dreaming!
I will never be a lapdog for a corrupt official like you.
Your impatient nature really runs in the society.
Whether you're willing or not,
read the letter first, then make your decision.
[Letter from Da Bei]
How is this possible?
Who could possibly forge Da Bei's chicken scratch?
If you still don't believe it, take a trip to Kaiyuan Temple tomorrow.
Da Bei will be waiting for you there.
Young Master.
Eldest Master Chu has discussed it with Da Bei. They're willing to join us.
We've recruited a group of like-minded people. We now have informants in the West Market.
In the future, many tasks will be much easier to handle.
Thank you, Young Master.
It's still early. Did you want to head to Huanyun Tower in the East Market or the nomadic tavern in the West Market?
If you go to the same place two days in a row,
others will surely think you have been charmed by the alluring Huxuan dance.
It's just going around in circles more.
It's not very interesting and noisy too.
Go to Huanyun Tower.
Ever since returning from Luoyang, you keep muttering it's boring, it's not interesting.
Is it that you find Chang'an itself uninteresting or is it the beauties of Chang'an dull?
Go get the carriage.
Shopkeeper.
Call on me for such heavy work in the future.
No need, I can do it myself. No need to trouble you.
You've been here for half a month already. Why do you still act like an outsider?
Yes, I've been here for half a month now.
The household registration you promised me before. Has it not been arranged yet?
There have been many refugees recently. The government offices have been very busy.
It'll take a few more days.
For you, a young girl, making a living in Chang'an is too difficult.
Have you considered switching to an easier way to live?
In the future, don't call me "Shopkeeper" anymore.
Just call me Young Master Qing, all right? I'll surely treat you well.
Shopkeeper, you've had too much to drink today.
I'll regard what was said today as if I never heard it.
If you don't want to be a concubine, I can sell Fifth Miss and take you as my legal wife.
- From now on, all the family business here will belong to both of us.
- Absolutely impossible!
- Let go of me!
- You, a person without even a household registration, what high ground are you pretending to stand on?
Let’s see what’s tougher, your stubbornness or my fists.
Stop beating me!
I agree. I beg you, stop beating me.
'Fragrance Recital' - Zhang Zining
♫ On the endless road to Chang'an,
the zither and lute's melody echoes from afar ♫
♫ Plum and willow trees greet the Spring,
as splendor returns this year ♫
♫ Copper battlements shine atop the palace
as songs and dances fill the air and glasses are raised ♫
♫ Idle clouds and drifting duckweed, with a thousand flowers blooming ♫
♫ Time flows gracefully, with moments gathering in the fading mist ♫
♫ Let the years pass, carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫
♫ The distant night sky, scattered with stars, reflects the gentle moon ♫
♫ The peony's exquisite beauty fills the fragrant garden ♫
♫ With my heart as a lantern, I fear not the journey through distant mountain paths ♫
♫ The jade flute's music fills a fleeting life with meaning ♫
♫ Time flows gracefully, with moments gathering in the fading mist ♫
♫ Let the years pass, carried by the wind toward long-held desires ♫
♫ If the heart remains as still as water, youth becomes eternal ♫
♫ Still cherishing the moon of my hometown, yearning to meet again ♫