Flourished Peony (2025) s01e09 Episode Script
Episode 9
In the past, there was Tao Qian who wouldn't bow for five dou of rice.
(T/N: 1 dou approx. 2.64 gallons of grains)
Today, there is the Floral Envoy who pledges allegiance for a leopard.
It seems you not only enjoy appreciating flowers but also likes taming beasts.
Superficial.
I am very devoted. I only love money.
Coincidentally, I only love money too.
It is fitting to partner with you to make money.
Splitting the profits fifty-fifty?
Impossible.
Envoy Jiang, I am just borrowing your capital.
All the dirty and tiring work will all be done by me.
You only need to lie down and collect the money.
A 50-50 split is already fair.
Moreover, today I helped you block the unwanted admirers and nearly got my head shot through.
You must at least remember some of my good deeds, right?
Whether you came or not, I can handle unwanted admirers myself today.
It was actually me who saved your life.
- I
- Well
seeing your cleverness in playing the part today, you do have somewhat of a sly merchant's adaptability.
Collaboration is not out of the question.
[50-50]
If we profit, the split is 90-10. If we lose, I'll pay back all the capital.
- Isn't that what you said?
- You
A godsend opportunity, a sure win without losses. I'm taking a bit of a loss.
If you sign this, the promissory note for the 19 potted flowers will be written off.
Darned corrupt official Jiang, filthy merchant.
Don't think I can't see your grumbling under your breath.
- No.
- Forget it.
It's better to lend the money at the capital to earn interest.
No.
Envoy Jiang, I will sign. I will sign right away.
[Jiang Xiao Hua]
I'm grateful for your appreciation.
In the future, I will surely work tirelessly to make money.
Chuan Yu.
- Young Master.
- Come in to pack up the things. We're leaving.
- Yes.
- Let me pack up together with Chuan Yu.
To descend the mountain a moment earlier is to be a moment safer.
You're still in mourning, and there was the matter of Luoyang previously.
Not reflecting properly at home, you gallop on horseback.
What kind of conduct is this?
About the matter of choosing your husband, I will make arrangements.
- You needn't worry about it.
- Regal Father.
To you, Jiang Chang Yang stays close to the Emperor and shares a strong bond with him.
Naturally, handling matters would be more convenient.
As for the matter of Luoyang, he was pleased to see it. He has no desire to marry me at all.
If you hadn’t let emotions cloud your judgment and brought disgrace, we wouldn't need to consider his willingness.
Well now. This has become his excuse for evasion.
Causing you to be shamed is my lack of filial piety.
What kind of conduct is this? Rise.
Regal Father, the Luoyang matter has already caused an uproar.
If I remarry to someone else, won't this confirm those rumors?
But if I marry into the Liu family, it would just be a common meeting. Nothing is there to be criticized.
You've told me this so many times already. Aren't you tired?
Regal Father, I understand, you don't think the Liu family's status is high enough.
But looking at the whole of Chang'an, the young gentlemen of the noble families are all like Jiang Chang Yang.
Backed by their vast family wealth, they spend their days solely indulging in pleasure.
Even marrying a more splendid county princess wouldn't secure his loyalty.
Precisely because the Liu family lacks high status, they can only look up to you as their leader.
If used well, wouldn't they be a sharp sword?
As for other families, let them be.
Won't the Liu family hold a grudge for the incident of being demoted to Luoyang three years ago?
Regal Father, about the Liu family, I have a clear understanding of them.
This family is eager to rise in the ranks and serve you loyally.
Liu Shen is good at amassing wealth and acts very cautiously.
Some matters hidden in the shadows require some people who know the ins and outs to handle.
Indeed, Regal Father.
Zi Shu, having studied hard since childhood, harbors great ambitions.
With your support, he'll become a capable minister and strategist.
My son-in-law will certainly rise to a high position.
You Zhen, as you have been married for three years,
your judgment has become much more perceptive.
You've learned to consider the bigger picture.
All right, I'll follow your advice.
Thank you, Regal Father. I will send a message to the Liu family right now
to have Zi Shu come to Chang'an quickly to give thanks to you in person.
Envoy Jiang, this carriage holds treasure worth several Chang'an estates.
Thank you for giving me a ride.
It truly has broadened my horizons.
This act must naturally be complete.
I am known for my elegance.
If people see a woman covered in mud with disheveled hair walking out from my camp,
that would be unacceptable.
Wipe it off.
Do you want this?
Keep digging with this scrap metal, and your hand will be useless in days.
Wouldn't my business be a loss?
Envoy Jiang, rest assured. I have already made money now. Now I can buy proper farm tools.
In the future, I will avoid the royal hunting grounds.
I will definitely not make you lose money.
Stop.
Greetings, Your Highness.
I didn't see you on the hunting grounds. I heard you ran away with a young lady, Floral Envoy.
A beauty from which family made you so impatient to hide her away?
She just saw me once and fell at the sight of my valiant presence.
Her face is flushed at the moment.
Could it be she's a spirit transformed from these mountains? Thus she is too shy to meet people.
Your Highness, look,
how could I not enjoy such a pure and beautiful lady exclusively?
Well, you are usually surrounded by servants.
Yet now you're riding alone and are smiling broadly. It seems you have got what you wished for.
A few days ago, I learned Zi Shu's wife died falling off a cliff.
Today, my Regal Father consented to my marriage with Zi Shu.
There are no longer any obstacles between me and Zi Shu.
Thank you for facilitating this match, Floral Envoy.
Let's set off.
Sit.
Envoy Jiang, what do you mean by this?
You looked like you'd seen a ghost when you heard the Princess's voice.
I never thought the one who actually saw a ghost was me.
He Wei Fang is already dead?
I was just lucky.
I fell off a cliff and luckily survived.
Creating a fake household registration has one price.
But if I help you hide it from the Princess and Prince Ning, that would be another price altogether.
Give me the contract, I'm raising the price.
A gentleman's promise is unbreakable. Moreover, our contract has already been signed.
Envoy Jiang, you are a person of integrity. You certainly wouldn't take advantage of the situation.
Moreover…
Moreover, He Wei Fang is already dead.
Jiang Xiao Hua absolutely will not cause you any trouble.
This trouble won't fall on my head.
Liu Zi Shu is coming to Chang'an.
You'd better pray for good fortune.
The Liu family has already obtained the money and power they were after.
They won't care about someone like me anymore.
Furthermore, regardless of whether the Liu family will come to Chang'an or not
or when they come to Chang'an, when the time comes, I will seek them out.
But these matters no longer concern you.
In any case, my good fortune and your interest, I will earn it pot by pot.
Just you wait and see.
I did as you said. I used sun-dried fresh cow and sheep dung as base fertilizer.
These three pots have added irrigation fertilizer.
The fertilizer and water mix ratios are 35%, 25%, and 20%.
The roots have indeed grown much stronger.
Very good.
Sheng Yi, look.
This first pot here has some burnt roots.
This third pot, look at the main root. It's grown less than half an inch thicker.
This is the second pot.
This is the main root. It has grown stronger and it has sprouted lateral roots.
It just hasn't sprouted buds yet.
Come on, let's put this back first.
Remember this. Between taking the first pot and the second pot,
mix the fertilizer and water at a ratio of thirty percent to prepare the irrigation fertilizer.
With such fertilization, will it bloom soon?
No rush, we will move these flowers to get more sunlight.
Move them back indoors when night falls.
When changing the fertilizer, we need to chill the roots.
I'm afraid we won't be able to warm ourselves by the fire at night.
It's fine.
The dwarf peony is delicate. We should accommodate it.
All right, if it's cold at night, we two will sleep huddled together.
All right.
- It's raining.
- You're awake, Sheng Yi.
How are the flowers?
Now that you're awake, let's go take a look at the flowers together.
Come on.
Good, they haven't been too drenched.
Sheng Yi.
These flowers
have made it.
Made it?
Made it.
Look.
Sheng Yi, do you know?
Most peony flowers have elegant names like Dense Misty Purple or Jade Terrace Peony.
Either describing the color or depicting the posture.
How about we give this dwarf peony a name as well?
I'm not versed in literature. I don't know any fancy words.
But I think although this flower is small, it has a strong fragrance.
Look, I've been busy all day and the fragrance has clung to my sleeves.
Smelling it is comforting.
Wait.
Look, fragrance fills the sleeves.
Why not just call it
Sleeve
Lingering
Peony.
Sleeve Lingering Peony.
This name refers to the petite stature of its plant,
small enough to be concealed in a sleeve, and praises its pleasant floral fragrance.
Regal families often enjoy the aroma of incense.
Now with this Sleeve Lingering Peony, even peddlers can afford to enjoy such an elegant delight.
[Sleeve Lingering Peony]
Everyone, take a look.
Affordable peony, Sleeve Lingering Peony. The size of the potted plant.
With abundant blooms and a rich fragrance. 80 wen per pot. 150 wen for two pots.
- Everyone, have a look.
- 80 wen for a pot of peonies.
Any respectable peony would cost at least a few hundred wen.
- Yes.
- That's right.
I've never heard of a peony of the variety called Sleeve Lingering Peony.
Any peony is usually found blooming in gardens with large clusters of blooms.
With this size of your potted plant, can it bloom?
- Or are you just selling bare roots?
- Rest assured, everyone.
For a businessperson traveling far from home, integrity is the foundation. 80 wen means 80 wen.
Sheng Yi.
These are all genuine peonies. Every single plant blooms splendidly.
- So beautiful.
- Madam, come here.
Little boy, come forward and have a look. Is this not a peony?
Yes.
Although Sleeve Lingering Peony is small in size, its color and shape are beyond reproach. It is the king among flowers.
Its fragrance is truly unique. Take a sniff, isn't it?
- It really is a peony. It's a dwarf peony.
- Smells good, right?
- Really fragrant.
- It can actually bloom and the flowers bloomed so nicely.
It's really amazing.
Not just the name has changed. Even the appearance has been completely transformed.
The previous dwarf peony was small, ugly, and still cost 50 wen.
Now this one is completely renewed. With abundant flowers, it's only 80 wen!
This flower is not easy to cultivate. Once sold out, I'll pack up the stand.
Don't hesitate if you're interested. First come first served.
- I'll take two pots first.
- Madam, are you buying?
- Yes.
- I'll take one pot.
- I'll take one too.
- Can I get a discount for buying more?
- Yes.
- I'd like to order ten pots. Can you restock by tomorrow?
Of course. If you want to place an order, come here to sign up.
I'll restock within three days.
- Boy, can you carry that? Here.
- Sure.
You're strong.
- I'll buy one pot.
- Sure.
- I'll buy one pot too.
- Quickly, I want to order ten pots.
- All right, 10 pots, right?
- Ten pots.
Those who want to order, come to me.
- You can restock 10 pots by tomorrow, right?
- I'll restock within three days.
- Sure.
- 10 pots.
The medicine indeed worked. The cold symptoms are much better now.
You must not be careless either.
This decoction is ready. Don't forget to drink it.
All right, I'll drink it in a bit.
Never thought selling flowers would be more profitable than selling liquor.
Today is only the first batch.
In a few more days, we could earn hundreds of strings.
However, once we pay back the interest, there won't be much left.
Sheng Yi, how about we rent a house first?
But we still owe interest to the Floral Envoy.
No rush, it's not the end of the month yet.
The initial phase of the business is when we need to spend money.
We need to purchase more flowers and tools as well.
I've done the math. Excluding these expenses, it's enough to rent a house.
The land prices in Chang'an are high.
Renting a house is a significant expenditure.
We have just started doing business.
Wouldn't that be too extravagant?
This house is situated in a low-lying area next to the river. The dampness is really too much.
Moreover, when it rains, the roof leaks.
Over time, these peonies will surely not be able to withstand it.
Furthermore, even if the peonies can endure, I can't bear to let you suffer with me.
If one falls ill, no amount of money earned can be enjoyed.
As long as the two of us work together wholeheartedly, we will eventually be able to earn back all this money.
Ladies, you've seen the finest residences I have on hand.
Isn't there one that you fancy?
Sir, we have already stated our requests.
But what you have shown us is not what we want in a residence.
Actually, those were quite nice. But those by the river or lake,
although picturesque, are damp, sit low, and are prone to flooding.
The detached homes, although clean and refreshing, lack sufficient fertile soil or open space.
And those facing the street just have far too much pedestrian traffic.
After all, looking for a house is about convenience, right?
The conditions you're asking for are too harsh.
Do you really want to live on a smelly mudflat?
So, there really isn't the type of house we're talking about?
There are some, indeed.
Be careful.
This soil is full of decomposed leaves, with just the right amount of moisture.
It's our ready-made fertilizer.
Let's rent this house then.
Don't rush, wait a moment.
This courtyard is indeed large, but it's too dirty and run-down.
How can anyone live here?
It is a bit dirty and worn here, but the price is really cheap.
Moreover, this is right next to the residence of the Floral Envoy.
Having the powerful as neighbors for support, bandits would never dare to cause trouble at your door.
This Floral Envoy is reckless and unrestrained, with a notorious reputation.
This infamy far exceeds that of wandering bandits and brigands.
Who would dare to be his neighbor?
Although the Floral Envoy is arrogant and absurd and has made a bit of a fuss,
he has never committed the atrocity of forcing himself on the daughters of the common people.
Besides, this place is right next to the back courtyard of the Jiang Residence.
It is very far from the main house. It's absolutely quiet and safe.
Ladies, you can be at ease. It's no trouble.
This matter is of great importance. Allow us to discuss it properly.
If we become neighbors with Jiang Chang Yang, as long as we manage our relations well,
in the future, whether it's to extract money or buy on credit, it would be very convenient.
Let's go.
Look, we two weak women, living next to such a scoundrel official,
- really are a bit frightened.
- Indeed.
Unless the price is cheap enough.
Exactly.
Leave it to me. It's absolutely cheap.
Greetings, Your Highness.
- Zi Shu.
- Greetings, Your Highness.
You've arrived in a hurry and traveled hastily on the road. You must be exhausted.
It's no trouble. After I settle in at the posthouse, I will visit Prince Ning's Residence.
Why must you make this trip?
Wei Sheng kept his promise. He would rather die embracing the column.
I have said that I would wait for your return.
I hoped the first old friend you see when entering Chang'an would be me.
Let's go to Prince Ning's Residence.
You've already come to this place. Won't you go in and have a look?
Let's go.
[Liu Residence]
[Liu Residence]
I know you miss the old home. Returning to Chang'an, you'd surely pass by here.
That's why I came here specially to wait for you.
We respectfully welcome Your Highness and Young Master Liu home.
Wasn't this residence sold when we left Chang'an?
I have said it before. The old scenes of Chang'an remain as yesterday, and my heart remains the same.
As long as you are willing to return, we can start anew.
You Zhen, thank you.
As long as you are happy.
The government-arranged posthouse is humble.
Now you can live comfortably in your old home. That would put my mind at ease.
My father has already arranged your post at the Ministry of Revenue.
There aren't many vacant official positions nowadays.
So, you will serve as the Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Revenue. It's just a temporary measure.
You will surely be promoted in the future.
You Zhen, as I've stated in the letter,
I'm confident I'll pass the imperial exam with distinction and earn an official position.
I began my learning at the age of five. Only by seeking office through the imperial exams
and relying on talent for promotion will my heart truly at ease.
If I take this position for granted, how can I earn my colleagues' respect?
Zi Shu, your ambitions are lofty, which I naturally understand.
Even if you excel in the exam, you'd still have to begin with a humble local post like county magistrate.
As a minor official, you won't be able to unfold your great aspirations.
With a higher rank, you will better exhibit your strengths. Isn't that so?
You're full of talent. I think becoming an Assistant Secretary is a waste of your abilities.
Besides, I truly do not wish to part with you again.
This is for you.
With this, you may enter Prince Ning's Residence as you please.
[Token of Princess Ji'an]
Zi Shu, you've finally returned.
In the days to come, I will have something to look forward to.
[Token of Princess Ji'an]
[Ministry of Revenue]
Young Master Liu, please come in.
Vice Minister Hu, after you.
I've had someone clean and refurbish this room anew and added a few scholar's furnishings.
Young Master Liu, see if it meets your satisfaction.
You are my superior.
How could you be so polite to me? I am just an Assistant Secretary of the sixth rank.
According to protocol, I should share a room with other officials and assistant secretaries.
This is truly improper.
You are the prospective son-in-law of Prince Ning. I should be polite to you.
The Ministry of Revenue has no decent vacant rooms. This room was previously used by me.
Young Master Liu, just don't disdain this room for being old or worn.
In front of His Highness, please put in a good word for me.
Vice Minister Hu, there's really no need for this.
I've just arrived, solely to study and gain experience. As I associate with my colleagues,
I'm sure I'll have questions, and I'll be grateful for guidance.
His Highness has said you are well-informed and knowledgeable. We must not treat you lightly.
Young Master Liu, you flatter me too much.
Is there any other assignment at the moment? Please give your orders, Vice Minister Hu.
You are jesting. There's no need to trouble yourself.
Just make yourself at home and act freely.
Just do whatever you want.
Vice Minister Hu, I am not a good-for-nothing idler who bullies others by flaunting power.
Although favored by His Highness, I wish to do my utmost to serve the public diligently.
Could I trouble you to fetch the records and documents from previous years for me to review?
I would like to familiarize myself with the duties that fall within my purview.
All right, I'll go fetch them right now.
Please wait a moment, Young Master Liu.
Thank you for your trouble.
What's the point of holding such a position?
Now I've become someone who exercises power under false pretenses and usurps others' nests.
You will become the son-in-law of Prince Ning. Besides, you're a newly appointed official.
Others are merely fearful and envious. Young Master, why bother yourself with that?
Qiu Shi, it's not for the sake of others,
but I do not wish to let down my own aspirations.
The office I hold is not attained properly.
But if I manage to accomplish some achievements, the cold stares and idle talk will dissipate on their own.
In the future, I must rely on my own talents to rise to prominence.
After finishing the duty and returning home, I feel I have nothing to do.
It's perfect that Vice Minister Hu is inviting us to Huanyun Tavern to drink and enjoy dance performances.
Should we invite that newcomer, Liu Chang?
He's already taken Vice Minister Hu's room.
- Do we need to ingratiate ourselves?
- Indeed.
Working together is already tiring enough.
After finishing the duty, I certainly don't want to continue to act servilely.
- Let's just enjoy ourselves. Let's go.
- Go.
[Map of the Layout of Rivers and Waterways]
[Danzhou | Suizhou | Wencheng]
Come.
Go.
Sheng Yi. Come quickly.
These are ready-made.
So many.
Really nice.
- These can all be used.
- Can all be used.
Sheng Yi, let's not throw away these mats.
They can be used for shade later on.
- Lay it down.
- All right.
- Be careful.
- Just put it on the ground.
Come on.
There's still a lot more.
Sheng Yi, help me.
Slow down.
Get out of the way.
What is this?
Can it be opened?
Well…
[Land Deed]
So, my house isn't next to the backyard of the Jiang Residence.
- My house is in the backyard of the Jiang Residence.
- I invested money in your business.
Now I haven't made a single penny of profit, but you switched houses first.
I changed houses to be able to make money better.
Envoy Jiang, look.
This sludge is best for planting flowers.
Rest assured, your profits at the end of the month will be delivered to you in full.
Mu Dan, there's trouble.
- What happened?
- It's bad. The house broker has quit and is gone.
He must have absconded with the money.
Darned house broker.
A lone girl bravely enters Chang'an. Before she achieved great things, she had been swindled out of her money.
It truly moves people to compassion and brings them to tears.
Mu Dan, you mustn't be discouraged.
You have to learn from this and work even harder to make money.
After all, my ninety percent profit cannot be shortchanged at all.
Sure.
Chuan Yu, let's show some tenderness for the ladies.
With just the two of them, moving is really too slow.
Send some people to move all their stuff out of here.
Yes.
Chuan Yu, hold on.
Envoy Jiang, it is my oversight that led to being deceived in this matter.
But you bear the fault of mismanagement, right?
When the house broker brought us to see the house, he sure seemed well-acquainted with the place.
I didn't see any of the Jiang Residence staff keeping watch.
Indeed.
Isn't it?
Young Master, you have forgotten.
In the past two years, you suddenly took an interest in brewing wine.
So, you bought this neighboring courtyard to use as a wine cellar.
But after a few months, you wanted to raise deer and you neglected this courtyard.
Over time, perhaps the servants grew lazy and slackened in their upkeep.
You see, It's not just my fault, right?
No matter whom we blame, this is an internal matter of my household.
Now you've taken my house.
Who dares to take and who could take your house?
Envoy Jiang, just look, this courtyard is deserted. It's utterly useless to you.
But if rented to us, we could turn waste into treasure.
The profit will be doubled.
Yes.
Envoy Jiang, we are all people who love money.
You surely wouldn't want your money to go to waste.
- Are you threatening me?
- I meant no such thing.
Anyway, I will pay the rent on time.
By the way, Envoy Jiang, your Jade Terrace Peony has been moved to your residence, right?
I've been busy with the move these past few days. So I had no time to check them.
I wonder if any flowers are blooming.
Right, Mu Dan needs to regularly tend to the Jade Terrace Peony for you.
Now that we have become neighbors, if there is any problem with the flowers, Mu Dan can tend to them at any time.
Isn't that convenient?
Yes, if we leave, both sides suffer a loss.
But if we stay, it's the best of both worlds.
Firstly, the business will be done right under your supervision in the future.
You can be more at ease.
Secondly, I assure your backyard will bloom splendidly.
Along with this desolate courtyard, everything will take on a fresh new look without losing dignity.
You are so smart.
You certainly won't refuse such a good deal, right?
Since you say you staying could satisfy both sides and double the profit.
Then it seems my ninety percent profit shouldn't be a problem, huh?
Absolutely no problem.
Chuan Yu will come to collect the money at the end of the month. Not a penny less. Not a day late.
Otherwise, I'll have someone move you out.
Understood.
I wish you a pleasant stay.
Right now, I am both your creditor and your landlord.
Jiang Xiao Hua, behave well.
- Take care, Envoy Jiang.
- Take care, Envoy Jiang.
Which blind house broker dared to cheat on my house?
Tell Governor Ren to seize him within three days.
- Have him spit out all the money. Then he has to be punished and serve.
- Yes.
Sheng Yi, didn't we agree to hire someone to hoe the weeds?
Why did you do it yourself?
These workers complain that weeding is tough labor and demand a high price.
We don't have much money. Let's just do it ourselves.
Indeed, the house repair and the purchase of fertilizer and gardening tools have cost quite a bit.
We really don't have any savings left on hand.
Let's handle it ourselves.
I'm not afraid of hard work. You go tend to the flowers. Leave this place to me.
How can I? Right now, from head to toe, I have boundless energy.
Let's do it together.
Purslane.
- Why did you only dig up this much?
- Look at mine. You're even carrying a basket.
It's so cheap. Just dig as much as I can.
Mu Dan, eat something.
All right.
What's the matter?
There's something I don't understand.
- I'm not sure if I should ask.
- Ask away.
Since the purslane can be used as medicine for sale and we need money, why not pick and sell it ourselves?
Charging 10 wen to let people pick as they please, isn't that giving outsiders a bargain?
Although purslane is valuable, it's not nearly as valuable as peonies.
It seems we've lost some money on medicinal herbs. But in reality, it has bought us more time to profit sooner.
Since I was little, I've been doing business with my father.
The first thing I learned was that sometimes, time is more precious than money.
'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 ♫
(T/N: 1 dou approx. 2.64 gallons of grains)
Today, there is the Floral Envoy who pledges allegiance for a leopard.
It seems you not only enjoy appreciating flowers but also likes taming beasts.
Superficial.
I am very devoted. I only love money.
Coincidentally, I only love money too.
It is fitting to partner with you to make money.
Splitting the profits fifty-fifty?
Impossible.
Envoy Jiang, I am just borrowing your capital.
All the dirty and tiring work will all be done by me.
You only need to lie down and collect the money.
A 50-50 split is already fair.
Moreover, today I helped you block the unwanted admirers and nearly got my head shot through.
You must at least remember some of my good deeds, right?
Whether you came or not, I can handle unwanted admirers myself today.
It was actually me who saved your life.
- I
- Well
seeing your cleverness in playing the part today, you do have somewhat of a sly merchant's adaptability.
Collaboration is not out of the question.
[50-50]
If we profit, the split is 90-10. If we lose, I'll pay back all the capital.
- Isn't that what you said?
- You
A godsend opportunity, a sure win without losses. I'm taking a bit of a loss.
If you sign this, the promissory note for the 19 potted flowers will be written off.
Darned corrupt official Jiang, filthy merchant.
Don't think I can't see your grumbling under your breath.
- No.
- Forget it.
It's better to lend the money at the capital to earn interest.
No.
Envoy Jiang, I will sign. I will sign right away.
[Jiang Xiao Hua]
I'm grateful for your appreciation.
In the future, I will surely work tirelessly to make money.
Chuan Yu.
- Young Master.
- Come in to pack up the things. We're leaving.
- Yes.
- Let me pack up together with Chuan Yu.
To descend the mountain a moment earlier is to be a moment safer.
You're still in mourning, and there was the matter of Luoyang previously.
Not reflecting properly at home, you gallop on horseback.
What kind of conduct is this?
About the matter of choosing your husband, I will make arrangements.
- You needn't worry about it.
- Regal Father.
To you, Jiang Chang Yang stays close to the Emperor and shares a strong bond with him.
Naturally, handling matters would be more convenient.
As for the matter of Luoyang, he was pleased to see it. He has no desire to marry me at all.
If you hadn’t let emotions cloud your judgment and brought disgrace, we wouldn't need to consider his willingness.
Well now. This has become his excuse for evasion.
Causing you to be shamed is my lack of filial piety.
What kind of conduct is this? Rise.
Regal Father, the Luoyang matter has already caused an uproar.
If I remarry to someone else, won't this confirm those rumors?
But if I marry into the Liu family, it would just be a common meeting. Nothing is there to be criticized.
You've told me this so many times already. Aren't you tired?
Regal Father, I understand, you don't think the Liu family's status is high enough.
But looking at the whole of Chang'an, the young gentlemen of the noble families are all like Jiang Chang Yang.
Backed by their vast family wealth, they spend their days solely indulging in pleasure.
Even marrying a more splendid county princess wouldn't secure his loyalty.
Precisely because the Liu family lacks high status, they can only look up to you as their leader.
If used well, wouldn't they be a sharp sword?
As for other families, let them be.
Won't the Liu family hold a grudge for the incident of being demoted to Luoyang three years ago?
Regal Father, about the Liu family, I have a clear understanding of them.
This family is eager to rise in the ranks and serve you loyally.
Liu Shen is good at amassing wealth and acts very cautiously.
Some matters hidden in the shadows require some people who know the ins and outs to handle.
Indeed, Regal Father.
Zi Shu, having studied hard since childhood, harbors great ambitions.
With your support, he'll become a capable minister and strategist.
My son-in-law will certainly rise to a high position.
You Zhen, as you have been married for three years,
your judgment has become much more perceptive.
You've learned to consider the bigger picture.
All right, I'll follow your advice.
Thank you, Regal Father. I will send a message to the Liu family right now
to have Zi Shu come to Chang'an quickly to give thanks to you in person.
Envoy Jiang, this carriage holds treasure worth several Chang'an estates.
Thank you for giving me a ride.
It truly has broadened my horizons.
This act must naturally be complete.
I am known for my elegance.
If people see a woman covered in mud with disheveled hair walking out from my camp,
that would be unacceptable.
Wipe it off.
Do you want this?
Keep digging with this scrap metal, and your hand will be useless in days.
Wouldn't my business be a loss?
Envoy Jiang, rest assured. I have already made money now. Now I can buy proper farm tools.
In the future, I will avoid the royal hunting grounds.
I will definitely not make you lose money.
Stop.
Greetings, Your Highness.
I didn't see you on the hunting grounds. I heard you ran away with a young lady, Floral Envoy.
A beauty from which family made you so impatient to hide her away?
She just saw me once and fell at the sight of my valiant presence.
Her face is flushed at the moment.
Could it be she's a spirit transformed from these mountains? Thus she is too shy to meet people.
Your Highness, look,
how could I not enjoy such a pure and beautiful lady exclusively?
Well, you are usually surrounded by servants.
Yet now you're riding alone and are smiling broadly. It seems you have got what you wished for.
A few days ago, I learned Zi Shu's wife died falling off a cliff.
Today, my Regal Father consented to my marriage with Zi Shu.
There are no longer any obstacles between me and Zi Shu.
Thank you for facilitating this match, Floral Envoy.
Let's set off.
Sit.
Envoy Jiang, what do you mean by this?
You looked like you'd seen a ghost when you heard the Princess's voice.
I never thought the one who actually saw a ghost was me.
He Wei Fang is already dead?
I was just lucky.
I fell off a cliff and luckily survived.
Creating a fake household registration has one price.
But if I help you hide it from the Princess and Prince Ning, that would be another price altogether.
Give me the contract, I'm raising the price.
A gentleman's promise is unbreakable. Moreover, our contract has already been signed.
Envoy Jiang, you are a person of integrity. You certainly wouldn't take advantage of the situation.
Moreover…
Moreover, He Wei Fang is already dead.
Jiang Xiao Hua absolutely will not cause you any trouble.
This trouble won't fall on my head.
Liu Zi Shu is coming to Chang'an.
You'd better pray for good fortune.
The Liu family has already obtained the money and power they were after.
They won't care about someone like me anymore.
Furthermore, regardless of whether the Liu family will come to Chang'an or not
or when they come to Chang'an, when the time comes, I will seek them out.
But these matters no longer concern you.
In any case, my good fortune and your interest, I will earn it pot by pot.
Just you wait and see.
I did as you said. I used sun-dried fresh cow and sheep dung as base fertilizer.
These three pots have added irrigation fertilizer.
The fertilizer and water mix ratios are 35%, 25%, and 20%.
The roots have indeed grown much stronger.
Very good.
Sheng Yi, look.
This first pot here has some burnt roots.
This third pot, look at the main root. It's grown less than half an inch thicker.
This is the second pot.
This is the main root. It has grown stronger and it has sprouted lateral roots.
It just hasn't sprouted buds yet.
Come on, let's put this back first.
Remember this. Between taking the first pot and the second pot,
mix the fertilizer and water at a ratio of thirty percent to prepare the irrigation fertilizer.
With such fertilization, will it bloom soon?
No rush, we will move these flowers to get more sunlight.
Move them back indoors when night falls.
When changing the fertilizer, we need to chill the roots.
I'm afraid we won't be able to warm ourselves by the fire at night.
It's fine.
The dwarf peony is delicate. We should accommodate it.
All right, if it's cold at night, we two will sleep huddled together.
All right.
- It's raining.
- You're awake, Sheng Yi.
How are the flowers?
Now that you're awake, let's go take a look at the flowers together.
Come on.
Good, they haven't been too drenched.
Sheng Yi.
These flowers
have made it.
Made it?
Made it.
Look.
Sheng Yi, do you know?
Most peony flowers have elegant names like Dense Misty Purple or Jade Terrace Peony.
Either describing the color or depicting the posture.
How about we give this dwarf peony a name as well?
I'm not versed in literature. I don't know any fancy words.
But I think although this flower is small, it has a strong fragrance.
Look, I've been busy all day and the fragrance has clung to my sleeves.
Smelling it is comforting.
Wait.
Look, fragrance fills the sleeves.
Why not just call it
Sleeve
Lingering
Peony.
Sleeve Lingering Peony.
This name refers to the petite stature of its plant,
small enough to be concealed in a sleeve, and praises its pleasant floral fragrance.
Regal families often enjoy the aroma of incense.
Now with this Sleeve Lingering Peony, even peddlers can afford to enjoy such an elegant delight.
[Sleeve Lingering Peony]
Everyone, take a look.
Affordable peony, Sleeve Lingering Peony. The size of the potted plant.
With abundant blooms and a rich fragrance. 80 wen per pot. 150 wen for two pots.
- Everyone, have a look.
- 80 wen for a pot of peonies.
Any respectable peony would cost at least a few hundred wen.
- Yes.
- That's right.
I've never heard of a peony of the variety called Sleeve Lingering Peony.
Any peony is usually found blooming in gardens with large clusters of blooms.
With this size of your potted plant, can it bloom?
- Or are you just selling bare roots?
- Rest assured, everyone.
For a businessperson traveling far from home, integrity is the foundation. 80 wen means 80 wen.
Sheng Yi.
These are all genuine peonies. Every single plant blooms splendidly.
- So beautiful.
- Madam, come here.
Little boy, come forward and have a look. Is this not a peony?
Yes.
Although Sleeve Lingering Peony is small in size, its color and shape are beyond reproach. It is the king among flowers.
Its fragrance is truly unique. Take a sniff, isn't it?
- It really is a peony. It's a dwarf peony.
- Smells good, right?
- Really fragrant.
- It can actually bloom and the flowers bloomed so nicely.
It's really amazing.
Not just the name has changed. Even the appearance has been completely transformed.
The previous dwarf peony was small, ugly, and still cost 50 wen.
Now this one is completely renewed. With abundant flowers, it's only 80 wen!
This flower is not easy to cultivate. Once sold out, I'll pack up the stand.
Don't hesitate if you're interested. First come first served.
- I'll take two pots first.
- Madam, are you buying?
- Yes.
- I'll take one pot.
- I'll take one too.
- Can I get a discount for buying more?
- Yes.
- I'd like to order ten pots. Can you restock by tomorrow?
Of course. If you want to place an order, come here to sign up.
I'll restock within three days.
- Boy, can you carry that? Here.
- Sure.
You're strong.
- I'll buy one pot.
- Sure.
- I'll buy one pot too.
- Quickly, I want to order ten pots.
- All right, 10 pots, right?
- Ten pots.
Those who want to order, come to me.
- You can restock 10 pots by tomorrow, right?
- I'll restock within three days.
- Sure.
- 10 pots.
The medicine indeed worked. The cold symptoms are much better now.
You must not be careless either.
This decoction is ready. Don't forget to drink it.
All right, I'll drink it in a bit.
Never thought selling flowers would be more profitable than selling liquor.
Today is only the first batch.
In a few more days, we could earn hundreds of strings.
However, once we pay back the interest, there won't be much left.
Sheng Yi, how about we rent a house first?
But we still owe interest to the Floral Envoy.
No rush, it's not the end of the month yet.
The initial phase of the business is when we need to spend money.
We need to purchase more flowers and tools as well.
I've done the math. Excluding these expenses, it's enough to rent a house.
The land prices in Chang'an are high.
Renting a house is a significant expenditure.
We have just started doing business.
Wouldn't that be too extravagant?
This house is situated in a low-lying area next to the river. The dampness is really too much.
Moreover, when it rains, the roof leaks.
Over time, these peonies will surely not be able to withstand it.
Furthermore, even if the peonies can endure, I can't bear to let you suffer with me.
If one falls ill, no amount of money earned can be enjoyed.
As long as the two of us work together wholeheartedly, we will eventually be able to earn back all this money.
Ladies, you've seen the finest residences I have on hand.
Isn't there one that you fancy?
Sir, we have already stated our requests.
But what you have shown us is not what we want in a residence.
Actually, those were quite nice. But those by the river or lake,
although picturesque, are damp, sit low, and are prone to flooding.
The detached homes, although clean and refreshing, lack sufficient fertile soil or open space.
And those facing the street just have far too much pedestrian traffic.
After all, looking for a house is about convenience, right?
The conditions you're asking for are too harsh.
Do you really want to live on a smelly mudflat?
So, there really isn't the type of house we're talking about?
There are some, indeed.
Be careful.
This soil is full of decomposed leaves, with just the right amount of moisture.
It's our ready-made fertilizer.
Let's rent this house then.
Don't rush, wait a moment.
This courtyard is indeed large, but it's too dirty and run-down.
How can anyone live here?
It is a bit dirty and worn here, but the price is really cheap.
Moreover, this is right next to the residence of the Floral Envoy.
Having the powerful as neighbors for support, bandits would never dare to cause trouble at your door.
This Floral Envoy is reckless and unrestrained, with a notorious reputation.
This infamy far exceeds that of wandering bandits and brigands.
Who would dare to be his neighbor?
Although the Floral Envoy is arrogant and absurd and has made a bit of a fuss,
he has never committed the atrocity of forcing himself on the daughters of the common people.
Besides, this place is right next to the back courtyard of the Jiang Residence.
It is very far from the main house. It's absolutely quiet and safe.
Ladies, you can be at ease. It's no trouble.
This matter is of great importance. Allow us to discuss it properly.
If we become neighbors with Jiang Chang Yang, as long as we manage our relations well,
in the future, whether it's to extract money or buy on credit, it would be very convenient.
Let's go.
Look, we two weak women, living next to such a scoundrel official,
- really are a bit frightened.
- Indeed.
Unless the price is cheap enough.
Exactly.
Leave it to me. It's absolutely cheap.
Greetings, Your Highness.
- Zi Shu.
- Greetings, Your Highness.
You've arrived in a hurry and traveled hastily on the road. You must be exhausted.
It's no trouble. After I settle in at the posthouse, I will visit Prince Ning's Residence.
Why must you make this trip?
Wei Sheng kept his promise. He would rather die embracing the column.
I have said that I would wait for your return.
I hoped the first old friend you see when entering Chang'an would be me.
Let's go to Prince Ning's Residence.
You've already come to this place. Won't you go in and have a look?
Let's go.
[Liu Residence]
[Liu Residence]
I know you miss the old home. Returning to Chang'an, you'd surely pass by here.
That's why I came here specially to wait for you.
We respectfully welcome Your Highness and Young Master Liu home.
Wasn't this residence sold when we left Chang'an?
I have said it before. The old scenes of Chang'an remain as yesterday, and my heart remains the same.
As long as you are willing to return, we can start anew.
You Zhen, thank you.
As long as you are happy.
The government-arranged posthouse is humble.
Now you can live comfortably in your old home. That would put my mind at ease.
My father has already arranged your post at the Ministry of Revenue.
There aren't many vacant official positions nowadays.
So, you will serve as the Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Revenue. It's just a temporary measure.
You will surely be promoted in the future.
You Zhen, as I've stated in the letter,
I'm confident I'll pass the imperial exam with distinction and earn an official position.
I began my learning at the age of five. Only by seeking office through the imperial exams
and relying on talent for promotion will my heart truly at ease.
If I take this position for granted, how can I earn my colleagues' respect?
Zi Shu, your ambitions are lofty, which I naturally understand.
Even if you excel in the exam, you'd still have to begin with a humble local post like county magistrate.
As a minor official, you won't be able to unfold your great aspirations.
With a higher rank, you will better exhibit your strengths. Isn't that so?
You're full of talent. I think becoming an Assistant Secretary is a waste of your abilities.
Besides, I truly do not wish to part with you again.
This is for you.
With this, you may enter Prince Ning's Residence as you please.
[Token of Princess Ji'an]
Zi Shu, you've finally returned.
In the days to come, I will have something to look forward to.
[Token of Princess Ji'an]
[Ministry of Revenue]
Young Master Liu, please come in.
Vice Minister Hu, after you.
I've had someone clean and refurbish this room anew and added a few scholar's furnishings.
Young Master Liu, see if it meets your satisfaction.
You are my superior.
How could you be so polite to me? I am just an Assistant Secretary of the sixth rank.
According to protocol, I should share a room with other officials and assistant secretaries.
This is truly improper.
You are the prospective son-in-law of Prince Ning. I should be polite to you.
The Ministry of Revenue has no decent vacant rooms. This room was previously used by me.
Young Master Liu, just don't disdain this room for being old or worn.
In front of His Highness, please put in a good word for me.
Vice Minister Hu, there's really no need for this.
I've just arrived, solely to study and gain experience. As I associate with my colleagues,
I'm sure I'll have questions, and I'll be grateful for guidance.
His Highness has said you are well-informed and knowledgeable. We must not treat you lightly.
Young Master Liu, you flatter me too much.
Is there any other assignment at the moment? Please give your orders, Vice Minister Hu.
You are jesting. There's no need to trouble yourself.
Just make yourself at home and act freely.
Just do whatever you want.
Vice Minister Hu, I am not a good-for-nothing idler who bullies others by flaunting power.
Although favored by His Highness, I wish to do my utmost to serve the public diligently.
Could I trouble you to fetch the records and documents from previous years for me to review?
I would like to familiarize myself with the duties that fall within my purview.
All right, I'll go fetch them right now.
Please wait a moment, Young Master Liu.
Thank you for your trouble.
What's the point of holding such a position?
Now I've become someone who exercises power under false pretenses and usurps others' nests.
You will become the son-in-law of Prince Ning. Besides, you're a newly appointed official.
Others are merely fearful and envious. Young Master, why bother yourself with that?
Qiu Shi, it's not for the sake of others,
but I do not wish to let down my own aspirations.
The office I hold is not attained properly.
But if I manage to accomplish some achievements, the cold stares and idle talk will dissipate on their own.
In the future, I must rely on my own talents to rise to prominence.
After finishing the duty and returning home, I feel I have nothing to do.
It's perfect that Vice Minister Hu is inviting us to Huanyun Tavern to drink and enjoy dance performances.
Should we invite that newcomer, Liu Chang?
He's already taken Vice Minister Hu's room.
- Do we need to ingratiate ourselves?
- Indeed.
Working together is already tiring enough.
After finishing the duty, I certainly don't want to continue to act servilely.
- Let's just enjoy ourselves. Let's go.
- Go.
[Map of the Layout of Rivers and Waterways]
[Danzhou | Suizhou | Wencheng]
Come.
Go.
Sheng Yi. Come quickly.
These are ready-made.
So many.
Really nice.
- These can all be used.
- Can all be used.
Sheng Yi, let's not throw away these mats.
They can be used for shade later on.
- Lay it down.
- All right.
- Be careful.
- Just put it on the ground.
Come on.
There's still a lot more.
Sheng Yi, help me.
Slow down.
Get out of the way.
What is this?
Can it be opened?
Well…
[Land Deed]
So, my house isn't next to the backyard of the Jiang Residence.
- My house is in the backyard of the Jiang Residence.
- I invested money in your business.
Now I haven't made a single penny of profit, but you switched houses first.
I changed houses to be able to make money better.
Envoy Jiang, look.
This sludge is best for planting flowers.
Rest assured, your profits at the end of the month will be delivered to you in full.
Mu Dan, there's trouble.
- What happened?
- It's bad. The house broker has quit and is gone.
He must have absconded with the money.
Darned house broker.
A lone girl bravely enters Chang'an. Before she achieved great things, she had been swindled out of her money.
It truly moves people to compassion and brings them to tears.
Mu Dan, you mustn't be discouraged.
You have to learn from this and work even harder to make money.
After all, my ninety percent profit cannot be shortchanged at all.
Sure.
Chuan Yu, let's show some tenderness for the ladies.
With just the two of them, moving is really too slow.
Send some people to move all their stuff out of here.
Yes.
Chuan Yu, hold on.
Envoy Jiang, it is my oversight that led to being deceived in this matter.
But you bear the fault of mismanagement, right?
When the house broker brought us to see the house, he sure seemed well-acquainted with the place.
I didn't see any of the Jiang Residence staff keeping watch.
Indeed.
Isn't it?
Young Master, you have forgotten.
In the past two years, you suddenly took an interest in brewing wine.
So, you bought this neighboring courtyard to use as a wine cellar.
But after a few months, you wanted to raise deer and you neglected this courtyard.
Over time, perhaps the servants grew lazy and slackened in their upkeep.
You see, It's not just my fault, right?
No matter whom we blame, this is an internal matter of my household.
Now you've taken my house.
Who dares to take and who could take your house?
Envoy Jiang, just look, this courtyard is deserted. It's utterly useless to you.
But if rented to us, we could turn waste into treasure.
The profit will be doubled.
Yes.
Envoy Jiang, we are all people who love money.
You surely wouldn't want your money to go to waste.
- Are you threatening me?
- I meant no such thing.
Anyway, I will pay the rent on time.
By the way, Envoy Jiang, your Jade Terrace Peony has been moved to your residence, right?
I've been busy with the move these past few days. So I had no time to check them.
I wonder if any flowers are blooming.
Right, Mu Dan needs to regularly tend to the Jade Terrace Peony for you.
Now that we have become neighbors, if there is any problem with the flowers, Mu Dan can tend to them at any time.
Isn't that convenient?
Yes, if we leave, both sides suffer a loss.
But if we stay, it's the best of both worlds.
Firstly, the business will be done right under your supervision in the future.
You can be more at ease.
Secondly, I assure your backyard will bloom splendidly.
Along with this desolate courtyard, everything will take on a fresh new look without losing dignity.
You are so smart.
You certainly won't refuse such a good deal, right?
Since you say you staying could satisfy both sides and double the profit.
Then it seems my ninety percent profit shouldn't be a problem, huh?
Absolutely no problem.
Chuan Yu will come to collect the money at the end of the month. Not a penny less. Not a day late.
Otherwise, I'll have someone move you out.
Understood.
I wish you a pleasant stay.
Right now, I am both your creditor and your landlord.
Jiang Xiao Hua, behave well.
- Take care, Envoy Jiang.
- Take care, Envoy Jiang.
Which blind house broker dared to cheat on my house?
Tell Governor Ren to seize him within three days.
- Have him spit out all the money. Then he has to be punished and serve.
- Yes.
Sheng Yi, didn't we agree to hire someone to hoe the weeds?
Why did you do it yourself?
These workers complain that weeding is tough labor and demand a high price.
We don't have much money. Let's just do it ourselves.
Indeed, the house repair and the purchase of fertilizer and gardening tools have cost quite a bit.
We really don't have any savings left on hand.
Let's handle it ourselves.
I'm not afraid of hard work. You go tend to the flowers. Leave this place to me.
How can I? Right now, from head to toe, I have boundless energy.
Let's do it together.
Purslane.
- Why did you only dig up this much?
- Look at mine. You're even carrying a basket.
It's so cheap. Just dig as much as I can.
Mu Dan, eat something.
All right.
What's the matter?
There's something I don't understand.
- I'm not sure if I should ask.
- Ask away.
Since the purslane can be used as medicine for sale and we need money, why not pick and sell it ourselves?
Charging 10 wen to let people pick as they please, isn't that giving outsiders a bargain?
Although purslane is valuable, it's not nearly as valuable as peonies.
It seems we've lost some money on medicinal herbs. But in reality, it has bought us more time to profit sooner.
Since I was little, I've been doing business with my father.
The first thing I learned was that sometimes, time is more precious than money.
'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 ♫