Flourished Peony (2025) s01e10 Episode Script
Episode 10
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.
I see.
Sheng Yi. Since you had doubts, why didn't you ask me before?
I don't understand business and fear saying something wrong that might ruin your plan.
I know it now. As expected, I'm being shortsighted.
From now on, I'll do whatever you say. I won't ask any question again.
Don't say so. We are business partners.
We are equals. If you have any doubts, just ask me.
Mu Dan, you can both read and do business.
You said that once you made money, you'd buy back your mother's house.
You must be from a wealthy family.
Sheng Yi, if money were no longer a concern, what would you want to do?
Before I got married, I lived for my parents and siblings.
After I got married, my husband was my everything.
I've never considered what I want or what I'm capable of doing.
Now you are free. You can do whatever you want.
Have you ever thought about learning to write?
So, you can read account books and official documents.
Then you will no longer be fooled.
I… It's too late to learn at this age.
I'm afraid I would make mistakes to keep accounts by myself.
Hiring another accountant would be costly, and I fear being cheated.
Sheng Yi. The person I trust most now is only you.
You are smart and diligent. Surely you will learn quickly.
Just help me, all right?
Help me.
Then, I hope you will forgive me for being slow-witted.
Come on, I'll teach you now.
The Jiang Residence is so lively.
He parties every night without worrying about its impact on his health.
I just want my Jade Terrace Peony placed safely, untouched and undisturbed.
Sheng Yi. I'll teach you right now.
Look, when we do the accounting, it has to be from right to left.
You know about that, right?
[Jiang Residence]
It must be foolproof.
What I brought this time is twice as much as the last time.
This time, we would surely succeed.
The Floral Envoy is so unpredictable.
Miss He.
Is today Envoy Jiang's birthday?
Why have so many people come?
No. Today is the 15th of the month, suitable for opening the warehouse.
You would frequently move around here. I'll take you on a tour.
The merchants would open the warehouses and move goods.
What are the practices in the Jiang Residence?
Young Master says that since the warehouse door is open, we must fill it with something.
These officials are all here to help fill the warehouse.
Next, please enter the main hall.
Young Master's little pet.
Little pet?
A pipa inlaid with gems and seashells.
Such a large scale.
This scale was custom-made by Young Master; anything that fails it cannot be presented to him.
The gem on this is worth the annual salary of a Sixth-Rank official.
Take it slow, slower. Hold steady.
Come on, weigh it.
- Weigh it!
- Official Feng.
We will not accept it.
Why not?
Didn't you say that if an item weighs over a hundred taels, one can meet Envoy Jiang?
Your stone is heavy enough, but your sincerity is not.
T-T-This is red coral…
With such a large rare stone, and yet his sincerity is still not enough.
I specially had someone bring it by sea from Qiongzhou. It took me a lot of trouble.
My sincerity toward Envoy Jiang is like this rare stone, large and bright red.
Master Feng. I think it's because your sincerity toward others is not enough.
Chuan Yu. Thank you for your hard work.
Why don't you do me a favor?
Drink some tea and get relaxed.
- This is a real gold lump.
- I am a servant of the Jiang Residence,
completely reliant on Young Master for my livelihood.
This red coral embodies my sincerity.
If you don't give me a reason for refusal, I will stay here today.
I will stay here.
In that case, Official Feng, please bring your sincerity with you and come with me.
What are you waiting for?
Hurry up.
Official Feng. This piece was offered by Director Bao, also transported from Qiongzhou.
Official Feng, you'd better choose another new item. And try again on the fifteenth of next month.
Miss He.
The Epang Palace is lined with 10 thousand houses. There are layers of gates for guarding.
I think that's it.
Envoy Jiang grabbed the tail of the monster tiger with his left hand.
His right hand is just like this. Shoot three arrows at once at the monster.
The demon's forehead, chest, and groin were each struck by an arrow.
It died on the spot.
- Good.
- Good.
Clouds billowing under Envoy Jiang's feet.
Before I could even react, Envoy Jiang had already flown before me.
I immediately knelt in worship, saying "Thank you for saving my life."
But Envoy Jiang said,
"Slaying demons and upholding justice."
"Deputy Supervisor Yin, don't mention it."
But how could I forget your kindness?
Upon waking up, I immediately asked the embroidery house to embroider this
"Hero Jiang's Demon-Repelling Picture."
No wonder I haven't been sleeping well.
So, I did such a grand deed in your dream.
This should be acted in a play.
I have already ordered someone to do it. I'm worried
that even with the best actors, we still can't portray a fraction of your grace.
I've done such a dashing deed, yet I don't remember it at all.
What a pity.
However, this matter is quite interesting. I can tell it to His Majesty.
If His Majesty laughs at me, you must testify for me.
Of course.
These are a basket of magpie eggs.
The divine bird in the dream entrusted me to offer them to you.
You even brought me things from the dream.
Of course, I should give you a return gift.
Well…
You're so nice, Envoy Jiang.
This is a cricket?
His Majesty has recently indulged in cricket fighting, so he bestowed this victorious cricket to me.
It has won twenty battles out of twenty.
If you have nightmares again, let it slay demons on my behalf. So, I won't have to come to your dream.
This is an object bestowed by His Majesty. I am so grateful.
The cricket has escaped.
On the fifteenth of next month, you'll open the warehouse again?
No, we'll move.
- Move?
- To move the items in the warehouse.
Move those on the left to the right. And move those on the right to the back.
Young Master says once we move things away, there will be new space in the warehouse.
Once with the new space, why not fill it up?
- Please.
-Your warehouse is just like Envoys Jiang's desire,
can never be completely filled.
We've spent so much money, only to get a cricket. It is quite a loss.
Let me tell you. This is not just any cricket, but a message.
If I can cater to His Majesty's preferences and greatly please him, then I can secure a position as the Imperial Chronicler.
I would then become someone by the emperor's side.
Envoy Jiang serving as the Floral Envoy is truly a waste of his talent.
He should go to the Imperial Academy to impart knowledge and teach.
That would really be exchanging gold and jade for advices.
It's more valuable than knowledge in books.
But he just betrayed His Majesty like this, isn't he afraid of His Majesty's blame?
Young Master and His Majesty have grown up together from childhood, as close as siblings.
It's just about sharing the fun among friends.
What a coincidence. Sharing the fun with others every time happens to be the fifteen day of the month.
In order to accumulate wealth with a just cause, Floral Envoy even used the auspicious days.
In terms of using dirty tricks, he is truly amazing.
I'm impressed.
Miss He, please.
However, I can also use the auspicious days to sell flowers.
Perhaps it could take my business to the next level.
Young Master.
If you want to steal my unique tricks, you have to pay me.
Not at all. I wouldn't dare.
I've almost finished touring.
If there's nothing else, I will go water the plants first.
May you be well.
Wait.
In my residence, you speak ill of me to my guard.
How bold you are.
The true base person would hide all the filthy thoughts,
just like the family of Liu Chang.
Yet you receive the gifts and never hide it.
And your most trusted guard tells me everything.
I guess you wish me to spread it until everyone knows.
In my opinion, you probably long for this notoriety,
so you can hide something else.
I still remember the copper coin that was shot away.
Don't you want to know what I am hiding?
Not at all.
I am just an ordinary citizen.
Even my household registration has to be done by the help of you.
How dare I know more?
The Jade Terrace Peony is in the study.
Thank you, Envoy Jiang.
Miss He, please.
This grape wine is sent from Persia from a thousand miles away.
Your Highness, Brother Zi Shu, if the two of you like it,
on your big wedding day, I will take care of this drink.
Here, everyone. Let's drink this cup to the full.
Here.
This wine is clear, sweet, refreshing, quite nice.
Zi Shu, don't be fooled by him.
He lost a bet with someone, and spent a fortune to buy all the grape wine in Chang'an.
He fears that he can't hide it at home and would be discovered by his father, so he wants us to help him with it.
Brother. Prince Ning's Residence doesn't lack anything.
They couldn't appreciate this fruit wine.
The first time visiting, I have also brought an item for you to enjoy.
The work by Master Wu is magnificent and ingeniously crafted. A rare piece indeed.
This is one of Master Wu's works before he became famous, extremely rare.
It is also treasured by my father for many years. I hope you will like it.
Brother Zi Shu. Indeed, as Princess says, you are elegant and charming.
Even your taste in the calligraphy and painting is also extraordinary and refined.
You gave me this. And I must give you something in return.
Master Wu is skilled at painting people.
Go to the study and bring "The Portrait of the Child-Giving God".
Yes.
"The Portrait of the Child-Giving God"?
Wasn't it presented to His Majesty by Master Wu?
How could it be?
They are the founding nobles, often graced by His Majesty's rewards.
Possessing this painting is not surprised.
Your sincerity is not enough.
We have many Master Wu's paintings.
Your Highness, you accompany Young Master Liu to choose one.
Just take whatever you like.
His paintings are worth a fortune and hard to obtain.
The Jia family's collections did not come easily either. "The Portrait of the Child-Giving God" is enough for me.
How dare I take another one?
My father and Master Wu have been close friends for years, and our families are also longtime friends.
Zi Shu, don't be shy.
If the two of you like it, I will have someone invite him over to create a new painting for you both on the spot.
How about that?
That would be great.
What do you think, Zi Shu?
We have been drinking inside the whole time. It's a bit boring.
Why not go to the side of the agate pool to play drinking games?
Let's see today who can leave sober.
- Sure.
- Let's go.
- Let's go.
- Let's go.
- Come on.
- Come.
Zi Shu, let's go.
You go ahead first.
We'll go ahead.
Young Master Jia. I heard you are working at the Ministry of Works.
Well, I have an essay on water transport and would like to discuss it with you.
We are born in a wealthy family. So, we should live in the moment.
Why discuss it?
The heavy burdens of governing should be left to those minor officials with humble backgrounds.
I thought my gift was elegant and refined, but they actually despised it.
Better not to send it at all.
That Young Master Jia has many fine paintings, but he doesn't appreciate them.
How can he compare with your talents and ambitions?
Nobles possess wealth that others can hardly accumulate in a lifetime,
yet only seek pleasure, without any ambition.
Thinking that I will inevitably have to socialize with them, making me feel weary.
In the past, only the nobles could afford peonies.
Thanks to that flower-selling woman, now we can afford them too.
This Sleeve Lingering Peony is smaller than the average peony but has full and round flowers.
- It's perfect for decorating the house.
- Yes, I heard that woman is from Mountain Qingliang.
- Young Master.
- Young Master.
What does that flower-selling woman look like?
Zi Shu.
What are you doing here?
He must have gotten drunk from helping you fend off drinks, so he stepped out for a walk.
The Jia Residence is too big, so I got lost.
Are you feeling unwell?
After Young Master Liu marries Her Highness, the residence you will live in will be much bigger than mine.
By then, you must stick close to Her Highness.
Don't be like today.
You've only lost for a moment, and she got so worried.
You are so talkative!
What are they holding?
Are these peonies?
Since when did your family use such inferior goods to decorate the courtyard?
Why do you get such vulgar things?
We bought these flowers for ourselves. We were just about to take them to the servants' room.
Sorry for being seen by you. We'll take them away now.
Hurry.
Please forgive me.
Zi Shu, let's go, lest we get dirtied.
Some people are just like this flower, incompatible with this luxurious residence.
I'll take my leave.
In the past, only the nobles could afford peonies.
Thanks to that flower-selling woman, now we can afford them too.
Don't go back yet. Make a trip to the flower market.
Yes.
Turn right ahead.
- Here you go.
- Thank you.
- Potted peonies should not be watered too much.
- Got it. Understood.
It is not…
We've already pushed the price of the flowers down to the lowest,
but after deducting the cost and the bonus to the Floral Envoy,
there isn't much left in the monthly profit.
It's all right. Take it slow. We will save up more.
Once the flowering period of this Sleeve Lingering Peony is over, we'll have to find other low-priced peonies.
We have to keep providing potted peonies for sale, then we can retain customers.
Good.
Sheng Yi, it's still early. You can go home first.
I'll go check out the florists in the suburbs.
- I'll clean up here. You go ahead.
- I'm leaving now.
Excuse me.
Do you sell Sleeve Lingering Peony here?
Could this be…
I paid a lot for this Fire Gold Peony.
- You have to compensate for me.
- Well…
- Are you all right?
- I'm fine.
How much did this flower cost?
20 guan.
What?
20 guan?
This is literally asking for my life.
You've been deceived. Go find that swindler.
Don't talk nonsense. This flower of mine was worth this price.
- but this old fold destroyed the flower with his donkey.
- Well…
- Please judge.
-You have truly been deceived.
Your flower seems nice, but its stem hasn't grown well at all.
It's a Chinese peony in its first year,
failing to pinch the buds led to nutrient deficiency, so it definitely won’t bloom this year.
That's strange. Logically speaking,
a renowned variety like Fire Gold Peony should be cared for by a gardener.
I understand now. I guess some servant in the noble mansion stole this flower
and can't maintain it, now it won't survive and they deceived you.
This has nothing to do with you. Don't talk nonsense here.
- He had been misled.
- He's an elderly.
Today, either compensate or come with me to the government office. Let's go.
- Sir, don't do this.
- I truly can't pay it.
To the government office, right? I'll go with you. I'll be a witness.
The swindler is so despicable, stealing flowers and deceiving for money.
- He must be at least punished with fifty heavy beatings.
- Forget it.
Old man, you are advanced in age. I won't make it difficult for you.
Just give me three guan, and let's settle this privately.
I don't even have three guan.
No way. We can't let the swindle go. Let's go to the government office.
There's no need for that. I-I have urgent matters to attend to.
My wife is about to give birth soon, she's waiting for me at home.
Is that so?
Otherwise, you sell this flower to me. Consider it me being swindled.
I'll go search for the swindler with him. If we fail, I'll just accept my bad luck.
Well…
But right now, I only have this much money.
Just this?
Right, you've spent 20 guan. Forget it, let's go to the government office.
- Let's go. To report to the government office.
- No need.
All right, I'm having bad luck. Come on, hurry up.
- The swindler is himself.
- Right.
You haven't said who the swindler is yet.
Elderly, the swindler is himself.
I just saw with my own eyes that he injured your donkey.
He's putting on this act just to fool you.
I see.
Young Master.
Do you think that the woman selling flowers is Young Madam?
I've always felt she wouldn't disappear from this world that easily.
But the hair ornament at the edge of the cliff indeed belongs to her.
I know.
Towards Young Madam…
He Wei Fang had been married to me for a year,
and I only realized her true nature in the last few days.
Also, how the Liu family has failed her.
I used to be indifferent to her. I really intended to make amends.
What a pity. There's no opportunity anymore.
I'm fine.
Thank you for helping me.
- You're welcome. Take care.
- Thank you. All right.
- After you.
- All right.
Take it slow.
He Wei Fang.
He Wei Fang!
Wait.
He Wei Fang.
- Let go of me.
- He Wei Fang. Why do you run upon seeing me?
- Why did you pretend to die?
- I am dead.
Is that not just what the Liu family wished for?
That was my parents' wish, not what I wished for.
Your parents could take possession of my dowry. You could marry Her Highness.
And I could start afresh with a new identity.
Liu Chang. I'm begging you.
Please show mercy and spare me.
Start afresh?
Staring afresh like this?
Disheveled and in a sorry state.
How have you been spending your days? Have you been working as a servant for someone?
I have my own means of livelihood. Don't worry about me.
Are you selling flowers?
So, the flower-selling woman is really you.
For the Liu family, I had to marry the Princess.
But I am not a person who's not ungrateful and abandons his wife.
Liu Chang.
From beginning to end, we were never truly husband and wife. And now we have already divorced.
Why would you rather be a lowly flower merchant than return to me?
If there were no merchants or farmers, where would the clothes you wear, and the things you use at home come from?
I earn money with my own effort. I have never felt that I am lowly.
That's not what I mean.
Now I have seen you clearly. I misunderstood you in the past.
He Wei Fang. Can you calm down and get to know me again?
I did not sign the divorce agreement.
- As long as you are willing to—
- Liu Chang.
I wanted to leave you some dignity.
But you are relentless, and I really can't stand it.
Your parents coveted my dowry and even sent someone to kill me.
They forced my father to abandon me, leaving me with no home to return to.
You used fake medicine to trick me into marrying you, making me miss the chance to treat my mother.
Leading her to an untimely death.
Between you and me, except for hatred, there is no other possibility.
Your mother passed away from illness. This is really my Liu family's fault.
I can't deny it.
But I was unaware.
If you are willing now, I can steal the Zixi pill for you.
- Whether you keep it, or take it
- My mother has already died.
Why do I want this Zixi pill?
Liu Chang.
Whatever you have done, to me, it is all the same.
My mother has gone.
He Wei Fang.
- What are you going to do?
- Listen to me.
Whatever the Liu family and I have done, I admit all of it.
Give me a chance to make amends. I can take good care of you for your mother.
I know you like to grow flowers, so I can arrange a garden for you.
You no longer need to be looked down upon, worry about making a living,
work hard day and night. You can live an easy life.
What do you take me for? A kept woman?
Liu Chang. This is what you call seeing me clearly?
That's not what I mean. I just want to protect you well.
-I don’t want you to face the challenges from my parents and the Princess.
- If you really want to protect me,
then don't tell anyone I am still alive or appear in front of me again.
Excuse me.
Come on.
He Wei Fang.
When we married, you were unwilling, and so were I.
Now He Wei Fang is dead, and you are free as well.
Do not bother me anymore.
He Wei Fang.
She is not dead.
Don't worry.
Rest assured.
Annoying Liu Chang. Liu Chang is annoying.
I was totally wrong about her and underestimated her.
She comes from a merchant family, yet she possesses integrity, with extraordinary insight.
Like me, we all want to make a name for ourselves.
It's just a pity
it took me so long to realize.
Shuai Shuai. Do I really have no chance to make amends?
I like Mu Dan. I like Mu Dan.
What am I doing?
What do you like about her?
Her defiant coldness, her hostility in words,
or her situation of being free and unrestrained?
He dared to deceive an old person in the street!
That person is truly shameless.
Yes. So, I just came forward and lent the old man a hand.
But I got this.
Sheng Yi, this peony is really a Fire Gold Peony.
If we could save it, then this pot could fetch a sky-high price.
Oh, right. Go buy some mangrove bark.
Use it to soak in water and water the flowers. It can promote rooting.
Go ahead.
Third Master, let's drink.
I won. Drink.
I'm not playing anymore. I lose anyway.
Brother Pan, you'll have to drink this for me.
No cheating.
The lead courtesan of Huanyun Tower played the wrong note, yet no one noticed it?
I'm sorry I was distracted by the beautiful kites in the sky.
Please forgive me.
You distracted by such little kites?
Bring over my kite.
Yes.
Let me show you how to overshadow the sky.
- Good.
- Good.
Is this a phoenix? It's truly exquisite.
I've never seen such a big kite.
- Right?
- Look.
- Are these feathers real?
- You guess.
- I don't know.
- You guess.
Third Master. As a married man, competing with us for the ladies' affection,
- you are truly pointless!
- Exactly.
- All right. I'm just tired of holding it. Come on. Help me.
- You have a good taste.
Yesterday, I played polo with you, and now my left arm is sore.
Fly your own phoenix kite yourself.
Stop nagging, lest you complain about it. Take it.
- It has flown away.
- The kite has flown away.
It has flown to the backyard.
It took two months to make this kite.
Now, it's all in the Jiang Residence.
Just send someone to pick it up.
That wine-making backyard has been neglected for years. Inside it's all tattered and torn.
Even if picked up, it would be dirty. Forget it.
Now that the courtyard has been taken care of. Someone lives there.
Who?
Just a peasant girl who grows flowers.
The kite that the corrupt official flies is so extravagant and wasteful.
These feathers all came from the bonus I gave him.
Sui Zhi, you are hiding a beauty here? Then I must go take a look.
She's just renting here. I'm not hiding her.
Besides, there is a door bolt. You can't just go in.
Third Master.
S-Sui Zhi.
Third Master.
Come down, Third Master.
Come down. What are you doing?
You just twisted your waist playing polo yesterday, yet you're still messing around here.
After playing among women for so many years, this is the first time you’ve brought one home. I must see who she is.
- Just right, support me.
- Wait, what? Leave.
Stop it. I'll just take a glance.
- Just one glance.
- Hurry, support me. Just one glance.
- Come on. Take it slow.
- Hold on tight!
- Wait. Harder.
- Take it slow. Grab onto it firmly.
Harder.
Terrible.
- Jiang Chang Yang.
- Jiang Chang Yang.
This Fire Gold Peony of mine is extremely precious.
Smashed just like that by your friend, its stems have all broken. I'm afraid it's likely doomed.
I demand compensation from you. That's not too much to ask, right?
Well…
The Fire Gold Peony is very difficult to care for, with a low survival rate.
Even without today's incident, you might not have been able to grow it successfully.
It was you who failed to keep an eye on your friend, how come you are questioning me?
You're the one making outrageous demands first, of course, I would question you.
- You!
- What?
This flower woman is quite attractive, but why is she money-grubbing?
- Having such a good opportunity
- No wonder Sui Zhi wouldn't let us see.
She's quite vulgar.
However, the sight of the Third Master crashing into the flowers was truly a rare one.
Tomorrow I'll have to talk about it to Young Master Jia.
Furthermore, no one knows if it's a real Fire Gold Peony or fake.
Envoy Jiang, to avoid your blame, you really know how to beat around the bush.
You are usually so generous to those beauties.
Why are you unwilling to be generous to your friend?
Young Master, you've made a bad friend.
- Now that you see who he really is, you must feel quite upset.
- You!
What? Stop it.
Maybe I'll say something.
All right. Go ahead.
May I know your name?
Don't be that polite.
The person who named me fell seriously ill.
I fear my humble name would not be pleasant to your ears. You may call me Mu Dan.
Mu Dan.
May I know your name?
What a coincidence. My name is also not very pleasant to the ear.
I am the third in my family. Miss Mu Dan, you may call me Third Master.
Third Master, I'm not being fussing.
We run a small-scale business, and this smash from you is so disastrous.
I am the one who broke the flower, so I should be the one to compensate.
Sui Zhi defended me just out of fear that I would be at a loss.
Miss Mu Dan, don't be mad at him.
I am willing to place an order for this flower. If you can truly grow the Fire Gold Peony,
no matter the price, I will buy it.
But if you can't, then you have no proof.
At that time, I will compensate according to the price of ordinary flowers to you.
How does that sound?
Third Master, you are truly reasonable, not like someone.
If that's the case, I am willing to draft an agreement, lest someone accuses me of extortion.
You are so magnanimous, and certainly will not refuse to sign the agreement.
- You are afraid he will deny the debt.
- Do you think your friends would deny the debt?
Of course not. Right, Third Master?
Wu'er.
Wu'er, do not be afraid. I am here to buy flowers.
Sleeve Lingering Peony, 80 wen per pot.
Seeing that you are doing well now, I can rest assured.
What do you want?
Wu'er, come back to me.
I lost my soul after you left. Nothing feels meaningful.
The newly hired helpers are even so lazy. And the tavern's business gets worse day by day.
Without you, I really can't live on.
It was you who wanted to sell me.
I was just so furious and wanted to scare you. I didn't want to sell you.
It's all because of Mu Dan. She instigated the nobles to pressure me. I really had no choice.
Wu'er, I miss you so much.
- Wu'er. I really miss you so much.
- She is not Qin Wu'er.
- So many people here.
- I truly can't leave…
Let her go.
You are no longer Qin Wu'er. You are Qin Sheng Yi.
Don't fear that man anymore.
'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 ♫
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.
I see.
Sheng Yi. Since you had doubts, why didn't you ask me before?
I don't understand business and fear saying something wrong that might ruin your plan.
I know it now. As expected, I'm being shortsighted.
From now on, I'll do whatever you say. I won't ask any question again.
Don't say so. We are business partners.
We are equals. If you have any doubts, just ask me.
Mu Dan, you can both read and do business.
You said that once you made money, you'd buy back your mother's house.
You must be from a wealthy family.
Sheng Yi, if money were no longer a concern, what would you want to do?
Before I got married, I lived for my parents and siblings.
After I got married, my husband was my everything.
I've never considered what I want or what I'm capable of doing.
Now you are free. You can do whatever you want.
Have you ever thought about learning to write?
So, you can read account books and official documents.
Then you will no longer be fooled.
I… It's too late to learn at this age.
I'm afraid I would make mistakes to keep accounts by myself.
Hiring another accountant would be costly, and I fear being cheated.
Sheng Yi. The person I trust most now is only you.
You are smart and diligent. Surely you will learn quickly.
Just help me, all right?
Help me.
Then, I hope you will forgive me for being slow-witted.
Come on, I'll teach you now.
The Jiang Residence is so lively.
He parties every night without worrying about its impact on his health.
I just want my Jade Terrace Peony placed safely, untouched and undisturbed.
Sheng Yi. I'll teach you right now.
Look, when we do the accounting, it has to be from right to left.
You know about that, right?
[Jiang Residence]
It must be foolproof.
What I brought this time is twice as much as the last time.
This time, we would surely succeed.
The Floral Envoy is so unpredictable.
Miss He.
Is today Envoy Jiang's birthday?
Why have so many people come?
No. Today is the 15th of the month, suitable for opening the warehouse.
You would frequently move around here. I'll take you on a tour.
The merchants would open the warehouses and move goods.
What are the practices in the Jiang Residence?
Young Master says that since the warehouse door is open, we must fill it with something.
These officials are all here to help fill the warehouse.
Next, please enter the main hall.
Young Master's little pet.
Little pet?
A pipa inlaid with gems and seashells.
Such a large scale.
This scale was custom-made by Young Master; anything that fails it cannot be presented to him.
The gem on this is worth the annual salary of a Sixth-Rank official.
Take it slow, slower. Hold steady.
Come on, weigh it.
- Weigh it!
- Official Feng.
We will not accept it.
Why not?
Didn't you say that if an item weighs over a hundred taels, one can meet Envoy Jiang?
Your stone is heavy enough, but your sincerity is not.
T-T-This is red coral…
With such a large rare stone, and yet his sincerity is still not enough.
I specially had someone bring it by sea from Qiongzhou. It took me a lot of trouble.
My sincerity toward Envoy Jiang is like this rare stone, large and bright red.
Master Feng. I think it's because your sincerity toward others is not enough.
Chuan Yu. Thank you for your hard work.
Why don't you do me a favor?
Drink some tea and get relaxed.
- This is a real gold lump.
- I am a servant of the Jiang Residence,
completely reliant on Young Master for my livelihood.
This red coral embodies my sincerity.
If you don't give me a reason for refusal, I will stay here today.
I will stay here.
In that case, Official Feng, please bring your sincerity with you and come with me.
What are you waiting for?
Hurry up.
Official Feng. This piece was offered by Director Bao, also transported from Qiongzhou.
Official Feng, you'd better choose another new item. And try again on the fifteenth of next month.
Miss He.
The Epang Palace is lined with 10 thousand houses. There are layers of gates for guarding.
I think that's it.
Envoy Jiang grabbed the tail of the monster tiger with his left hand.
His right hand is just like this. Shoot three arrows at once at the monster.
The demon's forehead, chest, and groin were each struck by an arrow.
It died on the spot.
- Good.
- Good.
Clouds billowing under Envoy Jiang's feet.
Before I could even react, Envoy Jiang had already flown before me.
I immediately knelt in worship, saying "Thank you for saving my life."
But Envoy Jiang said,
"Slaying demons and upholding justice."
"Deputy Supervisor Yin, don't mention it."
But how could I forget your kindness?
Upon waking up, I immediately asked the embroidery house to embroider this
"Hero Jiang's Demon-Repelling Picture."
No wonder I haven't been sleeping well.
So, I did such a grand deed in your dream.
This should be acted in a play.
I have already ordered someone to do it. I'm worried
that even with the best actors, we still can't portray a fraction of your grace.
I've done such a dashing deed, yet I don't remember it at all.
What a pity.
However, this matter is quite interesting. I can tell it to His Majesty.
If His Majesty laughs at me, you must testify for me.
Of course.
These are a basket of magpie eggs.
The divine bird in the dream entrusted me to offer them to you.
You even brought me things from the dream.
Of course, I should give you a return gift.
Well…
You're so nice, Envoy Jiang.
This is a cricket?
His Majesty has recently indulged in cricket fighting, so he bestowed this victorious cricket to me.
It has won twenty battles out of twenty.
If you have nightmares again, let it slay demons on my behalf. So, I won't have to come to your dream.
This is an object bestowed by His Majesty. I am so grateful.
The cricket has escaped.
On the fifteenth of next month, you'll open the warehouse again?
No, we'll move.
- Move?
- To move the items in the warehouse.
Move those on the left to the right. And move those on the right to the back.
Young Master says once we move things away, there will be new space in the warehouse.
Once with the new space, why not fill it up?
- Please.
-Your warehouse is just like Envoys Jiang's desire,
can never be completely filled.
We've spent so much money, only to get a cricket. It is quite a loss.
Let me tell you. This is not just any cricket, but a message.
If I can cater to His Majesty's preferences and greatly please him, then I can secure a position as the Imperial Chronicler.
I would then become someone by the emperor's side.
Envoy Jiang serving as the Floral Envoy is truly a waste of his talent.
He should go to the Imperial Academy to impart knowledge and teach.
That would really be exchanging gold and jade for advices.
It's more valuable than knowledge in books.
But he just betrayed His Majesty like this, isn't he afraid of His Majesty's blame?
Young Master and His Majesty have grown up together from childhood, as close as siblings.
It's just about sharing the fun among friends.
What a coincidence. Sharing the fun with others every time happens to be the fifteen day of the month.
In order to accumulate wealth with a just cause, Floral Envoy even used the auspicious days.
In terms of using dirty tricks, he is truly amazing.
I'm impressed.
Miss He, please.
However, I can also use the auspicious days to sell flowers.
Perhaps it could take my business to the next level.
Young Master.
If you want to steal my unique tricks, you have to pay me.
Not at all. I wouldn't dare.
I've almost finished touring.
If there's nothing else, I will go water the plants first.
May you be well.
Wait.
In my residence, you speak ill of me to my guard.
How bold you are.
The true base person would hide all the filthy thoughts,
just like the family of Liu Chang.
Yet you receive the gifts and never hide it.
And your most trusted guard tells me everything.
I guess you wish me to spread it until everyone knows.
In my opinion, you probably long for this notoriety,
so you can hide something else.
I still remember the copper coin that was shot away.
Don't you want to know what I am hiding?
Not at all.
I am just an ordinary citizen.
Even my household registration has to be done by the help of you.
How dare I know more?
The Jade Terrace Peony is in the study.
Thank you, Envoy Jiang.
Miss He, please.
This grape wine is sent from Persia from a thousand miles away.
Your Highness, Brother Zi Shu, if the two of you like it,
on your big wedding day, I will take care of this drink.
Here, everyone. Let's drink this cup to the full.
Here.
This wine is clear, sweet, refreshing, quite nice.
Zi Shu, don't be fooled by him.
He lost a bet with someone, and spent a fortune to buy all the grape wine in Chang'an.
He fears that he can't hide it at home and would be discovered by his father, so he wants us to help him with it.
Brother. Prince Ning's Residence doesn't lack anything.
They couldn't appreciate this fruit wine.
The first time visiting, I have also brought an item for you to enjoy.
The work by Master Wu is magnificent and ingeniously crafted. A rare piece indeed.
This is one of Master Wu's works before he became famous, extremely rare.
It is also treasured by my father for many years. I hope you will like it.
Brother Zi Shu. Indeed, as Princess says, you are elegant and charming.
Even your taste in the calligraphy and painting is also extraordinary and refined.
You gave me this. And I must give you something in return.
Master Wu is skilled at painting people.
Go to the study and bring "The Portrait of the Child-Giving God".
Yes.
"The Portrait of the Child-Giving God"?
Wasn't it presented to His Majesty by Master Wu?
How could it be?
They are the founding nobles, often graced by His Majesty's rewards.
Possessing this painting is not surprised.
Your sincerity is not enough.
We have many Master Wu's paintings.
Your Highness, you accompany Young Master Liu to choose one.
Just take whatever you like.
His paintings are worth a fortune and hard to obtain.
The Jia family's collections did not come easily either. "The Portrait of the Child-Giving God" is enough for me.
How dare I take another one?
My father and Master Wu have been close friends for years, and our families are also longtime friends.
Zi Shu, don't be shy.
If the two of you like it, I will have someone invite him over to create a new painting for you both on the spot.
How about that?
That would be great.
What do you think, Zi Shu?
We have been drinking inside the whole time. It's a bit boring.
Why not go to the side of the agate pool to play drinking games?
Let's see today who can leave sober.
- Sure.
- Let's go.
- Let's go.
- Let's go.
- Come on.
- Come.
Zi Shu, let's go.
You go ahead first.
We'll go ahead.
Young Master Jia. I heard you are working at the Ministry of Works.
Well, I have an essay on water transport and would like to discuss it with you.
We are born in a wealthy family. So, we should live in the moment.
Why discuss it?
The heavy burdens of governing should be left to those minor officials with humble backgrounds.
I thought my gift was elegant and refined, but they actually despised it.
Better not to send it at all.
That Young Master Jia has many fine paintings, but he doesn't appreciate them.
How can he compare with your talents and ambitions?
Nobles possess wealth that others can hardly accumulate in a lifetime,
yet only seek pleasure, without any ambition.
Thinking that I will inevitably have to socialize with them, making me feel weary.
In the past, only the nobles could afford peonies.
Thanks to that flower-selling woman, now we can afford them too.
This Sleeve Lingering Peony is smaller than the average peony but has full and round flowers.
- It's perfect for decorating the house.
- Yes, I heard that woman is from Mountain Qingliang.
- Young Master.
- Young Master.
What does that flower-selling woman look like?
Zi Shu.
What are you doing here?
He must have gotten drunk from helping you fend off drinks, so he stepped out for a walk.
The Jia Residence is too big, so I got lost.
Are you feeling unwell?
After Young Master Liu marries Her Highness, the residence you will live in will be much bigger than mine.
By then, you must stick close to Her Highness.
Don't be like today.
You've only lost for a moment, and she got so worried.
You are so talkative!
What are they holding?
Are these peonies?
Since when did your family use such inferior goods to decorate the courtyard?
Why do you get such vulgar things?
We bought these flowers for ourselves. We were just about to take them to the servants' room.
Sorry for being seen by you. We'll take them away now.
Hurry.
Please forgive me.
Zi Shu, let's go, lest we get dirtied.
Some people are just like this flower, incompatible with this luxurious residence.
I'll take my leave.
In the past, only the nobles could afford peonies.
Thanks to that flower-selling woman, now we can afford them too.
Don't go back yet. Make a trip to the flower market.
Yes.
Turn right ahead.
- Here you go.
- Thank you.
- Potted peonies should not be watered too much.
- Got it. Understood.
It is not…
We've already pushed the price of the flowers down to the lowest,
but after deducting the cost and the bonus to the Floral Envoy,
there isn't much left in the monthly profit.
It's all right. Take it slow. We will save up more.
Once the flowering period of this Sleeve Lingering Peony is over, we'll have to find other low-priced peonies.
We have to keep providing potted peonies for sale, then we can retain customers.
Good.
Sheng Yi, it's still early. You can go home first.
I'll go check out the florists in the suburbs.
- I'll clean up here. You go ahead.
- I'm leaving now.
Excuse me.
Do you sell Sleeve Lingering Peony here?
Could this be…
I paid a lot for this Fire Gold Peony.
- You have to compensate for me.
- Well…
- Are you all right?
- I'm fine.
How much did this flower cost?
20 guan.
What?
20 guan?
This is literally asking for my life.
You've been deceived. Go find that swindler.
Don't talk nonsense. This flower of mine was worth this price.
- but this old fold destroyed the flower with his donkey.
- Well…
- Please judge.
-You have truly been deceived.
Your flower seems nice, but its stem hasn't grown well at all.
It's a Chinese peony in its first year,
failing to pinch the buds led to nutrient deficiency, so it definitely won’t bloom this year.
That's strange. Logically speaking,
a renowned variety like Fire Gold Peony should be cared for by a gardener.
I understand now. I guess some servant in the noble mansion stole this flower
and can't maintain it, now it won't survive and they deceived you.
This has nothing to do with you. Don't talk nonsense here.
- He had been misled.
- He's an elderly.
Today, either compensate or come with me to the government office. Let's go.
- Sir, don't do this.
- I truly can't pay it.
To the government office, right? I'll go with you. I'll be a witness.
The swindler is so despicable, stealing flowers and deceiving for money.
- He must be at least punished with fifty heavy beatings.
- Forget it.
Old man, you are advanced in age. I won't make it difficult for you.
Just give me three guan, and let's settle this privately.
I don't even have three guan.
No way. We can't let the swindle go. Let's go to the government office.
There's no need for that. I-I have urgent matters to attend to.
My wife is about to give birth soon, she's waiting for me at home.
Is that so?
Otherwise, you sell this flower to me. Consider it me being swindled.
I'll go search for the swindler with him. If we fail, I'll just accept my bad luck.
Well…
But right now, I only have this much money.
Just this?
Right, you've spent 20 guan. Forget it, let's go to the government office.
- Let's go. To report to the government office.
- No need.
All right, I'm having bad luck. Come on, hurry up.
- The swindler is himself.
- Right.
You haven't said who the swindler is yet.
Elderly, the swindler is himself.
I just saw with my own eyes that he injured your donkey.
He's putting on this act just to fool you.
I see.
Young Master.
Do you think that the woman selling flowers is Young Madam?
I've always felt she wouldn't disappear from this world that easily.
But the hair ornament at the edge of the cliff indeed belongs to her.
I know.
Towards Young Madam…
He Wei Fang had been married to me for a year,
and I only realized her true nature in the last few days.
Also, how the Liu family has failed her.
I used to be indifferent to her. I really intended to make amends.
What a pity. There's no opportunity anymore.
I'm fine.
Thank you for helping me.
- You're welcome. Take care.
- Thank you. All right.
- After you.
- All right.
Take it slow.
He Wei Fang.
He Wei Fang!
Wait.
He Wei Fang.
- Let go of me.
- He Wei Fang. Why do you run upon seeing me?
- Why did you pretend to die?
- I am dead.
Is that not just what the Liu family wished for?
That was my parents' wish, not what I wished for.
Your parents could take possession of my dowry. You could marry Her Highness.
And I could start afresh with a new identity.
Liu Chang. I'm begging you.
Please show mercy and spare me.
Start afresh?
Staring afresh like this?
Disheveled and in a sorry state.
How have you been spending your days? Have you been working as a servant for someone?
I have my own means of livelihood. Don't worry about me.
Are you selling flowers?
So, the flower-selling woman is really you.
For the Liu family, I had to marry the Princess.
But I am not a person who's not ungrateful and abandons his wife.
Liu Chang.
From beginning to end, we were never truly husband and wife. And now we have already divorced.
Why would you rather be a lowly flower merchant than return to me?
If there were no merchants or farmers, where would the clothes you wear, and the things you use at home come from?
I earn money with my own effort. I have never felt that I am lowly.
That's not what I mean.
Now I have seen you clearly. I misunderstood you in the past.
He Wei Fang. Can you calm down and get to know me again?
I did not sign the divorce agreement.
- As long as you are willing to—
- Liu Chang.
I wanted to leave you some dignity.
But you are relentless, and I really can't stand it.
Your parents coveted my dowry and even sent someone to kill me.
They forced my father to abandon me, leaving me with no home to return to.
You used fake medicine to trick me into marrying you, making me miss the chance to treat my mother.
Leading her to an untimely death.
Between you and me, except for hatred, there is no other possibility.
Your mother passed away from illness. This is really my Liu family's fault.
I can't deny it.
But I was unaware.
If you are willing now, I can steal the Zixi pill for you.
- Whether you keep it, or take it
- My mother has already died.
Why do I want this Zixi pill?
Liu Chang.
Whatever you have done, to me, it is all the same.
My mother has gone.
He Wei Fang.
- What are you going to do?
- Listen to me.
Whatever the Liu family and I have done, I admit all of it.
Give me a chance to make amends. I can take good care of you for your mother.
I know you like to grow flowers, so I can arrange a garden for you.
You no longer need to be looked down upon, worry about making a living,
work hard day and night. You can live an easy life.
What do you take me for? A kept woman?
Liu Chang. This is what you call seeing me clearly?
That's not what I mean. I just want to protect you well.
-I don’t want you to face the challenges from my parents and the Princess.
- If you really want to protect me,
then don't tell anyone I am still alive or appear in front of me again.
Excuse me.
Come on.
He Wei Fang.
When we married, you were unwilling, and so were I.
Now He Wei Fang is dead, and you are free as well.
Do not bother me anymore.
He Wei Fang.
She is not dead.
Don't worry.
Rest assured.
Annoying Liu Chang. Liu Chang is annoying.
I was totally wrong about her and underestimated her.
She comes from a merchant family, yet she possesses integrity, with extraordinary insight.
Like me, we all want to make a name for ourselves.
It's just a pity
it took me so long to realize.
Shuai Shuai. Do I really have no chance to make amends?
I like Mu Dan. I like Mu Dan.
What am I doing?
What do you like about her?
Her defiant coldness, her hostility in words,
or her situation of being free and unrestrained?
He dared to deceive an old person in the street!
That person is truly shameless.
Yes. So, I just came forward and lent the old man a hand.
But I got this.
Sheng Yi, this peony is really a Fire Gold Peony.
If we could save it, then this pot could fetch a sky-high price.
Oh, right. Go buy some mangrove bark.
Use it to soak in water and water the flowers. It can promote rooting.
Go ahead.
Third Master, let's drink.
I won. Drink.
I'm not playing anymore. I lose anyway.
Brother Pan, you'll have to drink this for me.
No cheating.
The lead courtesan of Huanyun Tower played the wrong note, yet no one noticed it?
I'm sorry I was distracted by the beautiful kites in the sky.
Please forgive me.
You distracted by such little kites?
Bring over my kite.
Yes.
Let me show you how to overshadow the sky.
- Good.
- Good.
Is this a phoenix? It's truly exquisite.
I've never seen such a big kite.
- Right?
- Look.
- Are these feathers real?
- You guess.
- I don't know.
- You guess.
Third Master. As a married man, competing with us for the ladies' affection,
- you are truly pointless!
- Exactly.
- All right. I'm just tired of holding it. Come on. Help me.
- You have a good taste.
Yesterday, I played polo with you, and now my left arm is sore.
Fly your own phoenix kite yourself.
Stop nagging, lest you complain about it. Take it.
- It has flown away.
- The kite has flown away.
It has flown to the backyard.
It took two months to make this kite.
Now, it's all in the Jiang Residence.
Just send someone to pick it up.
That wine-making backyard has been neglected for years. Inside it's all tattered and torn.
Even if picked up, it would be dirty. Forget it.
Now that the courtyard has been taken care of. Someone lives there.
Who?
Just a peasant girl who grows flowers.
The kite that the corrupt official flies is so extravagant and wasteful.
These feathers all came from the bonus I gave him.
Sui Zhi, you are hiding a beauty here? Then I must go take a look.
She's just renting here. I'm not hiding her.
Besides, there is a door bolt. You can't just go in.
Third Master.
S-Sui Zhi.
Third Master.
Come down, Third Master.
Come down. What are you doing?
You just twisted your waist playing polo yesterday, yet you're still messing around here.
After playing among women for so many years, this is the first time you’ve brought one home. I must see who she is.
- Just right, support me.
- Wait, what? Leave.
Stop it. I'll just take a glance.
- Just one glance.
- Hurry, support me. Just one glance.
- Come on. Take it slow.
- Hold on tight!
- Wait. Harder.
- Take it slow. Grab onto it firmly.
Harder.
Terrible.
- Jiang Chang Yang.
- Jiang Chang Yang.
This Fire Gold Peony of mine is extremely precious.
Smashed just like that by your friend, its stems have all broken. I'm afraid it's likely doomed.
I demand compensation from you. That's not too much to ask, right?
Well…
The Fire Gold Peony is very difficult to care for, with a low survival rate.
Even without today's incident, you might not have been able to grow it successfully.
It was you who failed to keep an eye on your friend, how come you are questioning me?
You're the one making outrageous demands first, of course, I would question you.
- You!
- What?
This flower woman is quite attractive, but why is she money-grubbing?
- Having such a good opportunity
- No wonder Sui Zhi wouldn't let us see.
She's quite vulgar.
However, the sight of the Third Master crashing into the flowers was truly a rare one.
Tomorrow I'll have to talk about it to Young Master Jia.
Furthermore, no one knows if it's a real Fire Gold Peony or fake.
Envoy Jiang, to avoid your blame, you really know how to beat around the bush.
You are usually so generous to those beauties.
Why are you unwilling to be generous to your friend?
Young Master, you've made a bad friend.
- Now that you see who he really is, you must feel quite upset.
- You!
What? Stop it.
Maybe I'll say something.
All right. Go ahead.
May I know your name?
Don't be that polite.
The person who named me fell seriously ill.
I fear my humble name would not be pleasant to your ears. You may call me Mu Dan.
Mu Dan.
May I know your name?
What a coincidence. My name is also not very pleasant to the ear.
I am the third in my family. Miss Mu Dan, you may call me Third Master.
Third Master, I'm not being fussing.
We run a small-scale business, and this smash from you is so disastrous.
I am the one who broke the flower, so I should be the one to compensate.
Sui Zhi defended me just out of fear that I would be at a loss.
Miss Mu Dan, don't be mad at him.
I am willing to place an order for this flower. If you can truly grow the Fire Gold Peony,
no matter the price, I will buy it.
But if you can't, then you have no proof.
At that time, I will compensate according to the price of ordinary flowers to you.
How does that sound?
Third Master, you are truly reasonable, not like someone.
If that's the case, I am willing to draft an agreement, lest someone accuses me of extortion.
You are so magnanimous, and certainly will not refuse to sign the agreement.
- You are afraid he will deny the debt.
- Do you think your friends would deny the debt?
Of course not. Right, Third Master?
Wu'er.
Wu'er, do not be afraid. I am here to buy flowers.
Sleeve Lingering Peony, 80 wen per pot.
Seeing that you are doing well now, I can rest assured.
What do you want?
Wu'er, come back to me.
I lost my soul after you left. Nothing feels meaningful.
The newly hired helpers are even so lazy. And the tavern's business gets worse day by day.
Without you, I really can't live on.
It was you who wanted to sell me.
I was just so furious and wanted to scare you. I didn't want to sell you.
It's all because of Mu Dan. She instigated the nobles to pressure me. I really had no choice.
Wu'er, I miss you so much.
- Wu'er. I really miss you so much.
- She is not Qin Wu'er.
- So many people here.
- I truly can't leave…
Let her go.
You are no longer Qin Wu'er. You are Qin Sheng Yi.
Don't fear that man anymore.
'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 ♫