【ENG DUB】Legend of Zang Hai EP17 | Xiao Zhan / Zhang Jingyi / Zhou Qi / Huang Jue | YOUKU
[Legend of Zang Hai] [Episode 17] Everyone experiences pain and confusion. Knowing is easy, and doing is hard. Even the Marquis of Pingjin is no exception. If you want him to rely on you, then help ease his burdens. So, what haunts the Marquis? It’s tied to someone who has long vanished from the Zhuang family. Shen Wan was the daughter of Zhuang Luyin’s father’s old comrade. She and Zhuang Luyin grew up together. But to revive the Zhuang name, he gave up on Shen Wan and married Jiang Xiang, daughter of Minister Jiang Jin. From then on, his career soared. In the 35th year of Wuhe, he suffered a major defeat in Dongxia. The Emperor ordered him to guard the border. Jiang Xiang refused the hardship and stayed in the Capital with Zhuang Zhifu. Stop! Life at the border was tough, yet someone appeared in his desolate life. That was Shen Wan. She never married. She came to the border to care for her wounded father. There, she reunited with Zhuang Luyin. They stayed together at the frontier, and had a son, Zhuang Zhixing. When Zhuang Zhixing was five, the court decided to wage war on Dongxia again. Zhuang Luyin was named the vanguard. This time, he crushed Dongxia and redeemed his past defeat. But just as his fame soared and he earned unparalleled glory, an unexpected visitor arrived at the border. Jiang Xiang came with Zhuang Zhifu. She wanted to rekindle their marriage. Zhuang Luyin was torn. He dreamed of surpassing his father’s legacy. But slighting Jiang Xiang would offend her father, a man of immense power. Yet how could he betray Shen Wan again? While he wavered, Shen Wan stepped forward. She willingly gave up her place to make way for Jiang Xiang. And Zhuang Luyin didn’t refuse. After that, he got everything he wanted: title and command. He became a powerful figure in court. Three! He thought he could treat them equally, and let Shen Wan suffer nothing. But he underestimated Jiang Xiang’s ambition and cunning. Since you hold high office, you should focus on your career. Leave household matters to Jiang Xiang. Jiang Xiang drove a wedge between him and Shen Wan, until at last, Zhuang Luyin believed Shen Wan was unfaithful. With his silent consent, Jiang Xiang poisoned her. Mother! Mother! Mother! Don’t leave me! Please! I’m begging you! Mother! Mother! Mother! A great debt is like a deep grudge. No one wants to carry it for life. A debt that can’t be repaid over time turns either into indifference, or resentment. The selfish usually live the happiest in this world. Why can’t he let go of this one thing? Is he hung up on Shen Wan of the past, or ashamed of the man he once was? No one can say for sure. And so he refuses to give even a shred of fatherly love to Zhuang Zhixing. Because every time he sees him, he’s reminded of the disgrace he used to be. The more you bury pain like that, the deeper it takes root. What kind of strong man wants to admit to such a weakness inside? My Lord, you were looking for me? Do you know why I asked you to come here? I believe this place is where the second young master lived as a child. My Lord summoned me here because of what I said earlier about the second young master? Zhixing was once dearly loved by me. But over time, we grew distant. And I’ve treated him far worse than Zhifu in recent years. He’s become the disappointing son. Could it be that I am also to blame? You are the head of the family. How could you be at fault? I was just thinking, the garden is full of blooming peonies, so why did you come here alone? I once knew a poor gardener. He made a living growing plum blossoms. But they were cheap, and over time, he became poorer and poorer, barely able to support himself. Then he realized people adored peonies. They sold for far more. So he switched to growing peonies, and finally lived a life of comfort. But he told me that deep down, he still loved the plum blossoms more. But it was too late. The plums in his garden, left untended, all withered away. That he chose plums when he was poor shows how deeply he loved them. But since he sold flowers for a living, he had no choice but to grow peonies. His beloved plums faded and died. Perhaps he blamed himself for that. But I don’t think he was wrong. Why not? Plum blossoms bloom in winter. They endure snow and frost, never chasing spring. It’s not that the gardener heartlessly chose peonies. It’s that the plum chose to bloom in hardship, and fall into the mud. Had he not turned to peonies, the whole garden might not have survived the winter. It reminds me of a poem: “Petals fall dry, already heartbreaking. How cruel, the storm that follows. How can such grief be soothed? Hope lies in fresh buds on new branches.” The poet mourned the blossoms lost in the storm, but didn’t dwell in sorrow. Because he believed, as long as new branches grow, the plums will bloom again. The gardener mourned what he lost, unaware a single young plum still lingered in a quiet corner. It may go unnoticed in the warmth of spring, but if nurtured with care, one day, in snow and frost again, it might stand proud and bloom anew. What did he say to my father earlier? My father actually asked about my studies. That means the Marquis intends to groom you. His care for you now may even surpass what he gives to Zhuang Zhifu. He’s only nice to me because of you. What I said doesn’t matter. What matters is, what kind of son he sees you as. So from now on, study harder, and never let your guard down. Yes, sir. Who is it? Sir, it’s me, Zhuang Shan. The Marquis has asked for you. Understood. He’s inside. This way, sir. My Lord. Whenever I’m troubled, I come here to sit for a while. This place helps clear my mind, lets me think things through. I’d be honored to share your burden. Do you believe General Fu Zhisong’s death was truly an accident? I have no idea. Loyal dogs are often killed when the chase ends. No matter how great your deeds, they can never outweigh the heartlessness of an emperor. But I believe you’re not like General Fu. He was the late Empress Dowager’s nephew, a royal in-law. But you led the charge that took Dongxia’s gate and secured a legendary victory. Surely His Majesty remembers your merit. With Fu Zhisong dead, the post of Commander of Zhongzhou Forces is now vacant. In court, no one is more qualified than me. Many officials have already recommended me to the Emperor. So tell me, should I fight for it? Many current generals once served under your command. Even your former deputy now leads the Muji Camp outside the Capital. If you fight for the position now, I’m afraid the Emperor won’t be able to hide his growing unease about you. So I should just sit by and let the title go to someone else? My Lord, this matter isn’t just a contest with others. It’s a contest with the Emperor himself. I believe His Majesty already has his plan in mind. So perhaps it’s best to wait a few days and see who he ultimately chooses. And in my opinion, not fighting for it might actually work in your favor. If you truly wish to command again, there may be another way. I want you to do something for me. Please give your order, My Lord. Once you hear this, there will be no turning back. Think it through. I would die a thousand deaths for your cause. In all my years, I’ve only lost one battle. And the one who beat me wasn’t a man, but a thing called the Gui Seal. The Gui Seal? In the 35th year of Wuhe, the late Emperor led a massive campaign against Dongxia. I served as the vanguard then. We stormed city after city, nearly conquering the entire land. But just as we were about to take the capital, something strange happened. Go report to the General. Yes, sir! Are those even human? Prepare to fight! Kill them! – Kill! – Kill! The Queen of Dongxia summoned a sacred relic, the Gui Seal. It unleashed an army of ghost soldiers. They’re monsters that could not be killed. No matter how strong our forces, they were helpless before them. Retreat! From that day on, I swore I would find the Gui Seal! Six years later, the Great Yong regrouped its troops and launched another campaign. I marched out, ready to die if I must. But this time, Dongxia had lost the protection of the Gui Seal, and was swiftly crushed into submission. Yet even after stationing Dongxia for three years, I still couldn’t find that cursed artifact. A geomancer found this bronze fish. He discovered the Gui Seal in Dongxia and tried to keep it for himself. I attempted to take it from him, but failed. And I suspect this bronze fish is somehow linked to the Gui Seal. Perhaps they’re parts of a whole. So the Gui Seal is still on him? No. Not on him. He’s already dead. That was his fate. He dared to take what belongs to you. He must die. It’s been ten years. I searched everywhere, but still couldn’t find it. I’d nearly lost hope. But now that you’re here, it’s different. My Lord, you want me to help you find the Gui Seal? That’s right. My Lord, I’ll do whatever it takes for you. Then this task is yours now. Yes, My Lord. May I ask, is there only one of these bronze fish? What do you mean? When I was young, I studied geomancy under my master. I learned a bit about Dongxia culture. Dongxia’s early days relied on fishing and hunting, so the fish became their totem. I’ve never seen this bronze fish before, but I’ve seen many of their fish symbols. In their paintings, fish always appear in groups. They’re symbols of abundance and prosperity. That’s why I asked. Impressive, sharp mind and keen insight. You’re right. This isn’t the only bronze fish. I knew it. You really are the perfect man for the job. Then should I search for the other bronze fish as well? No need to worry about the others. I know where they are. Just remember, once you find the Gui Seal, I’ll make sure you’re well rewarded. I’ll brave fire and death to fulfill your wish. The Gui Seal? I’ve heard a few tales about it that have been passed down in Dongxia. They called it a gift from the Lady of Kunlun, the sacred treasure of their kings. But it always sounded so far-fetched. I thought it only existed in myths. No one in the Great Yong even knew it was real. Yet your father actually found it and brought it back. I never thought I’d help the Marquis search for it. Do you still remember the bronze fish in the Marquis’s secret chamber? Last night, I took the chance to ask about the other two. He said he knows exactly where they are. Looks like I was right. They’re with the other two enemies. But even with all the trust he’s shown me, the Marquis still refuses to tell me anything about the third person. One step at a time. We’ve already taken a big step forward. At least you now have the Marquis’s approval. From now on, whatever we do, we no longer need to hide. Master. Do you think the Gui Seal really exists? I don’t know either. But there’s one thing I’m sure of. Your enemies never stop searching for it. So if we find the Gui Seal and the bronze fish, we’ll definitely uncover the third person. My Lord. My Lady. Zang Hai, have a seat. Sit! Is there something to celebrate today, My Lord? You know, the other day, the Emperor summoned all military officials to the palace for a meeting. I claimed illness and didn’t go. But the Emperor named Wuma Fu commander of Zhongzhou. Those who fought over that position were demoted or punished. Even though I didn’t show up, His Majesty didn’t blame me. In fact, out of concern for my health, he rewarded me with a thousand taels of silver. Brilliant move, My Lord. You didn’t fight or scheme, yet won the Emperor’s favor. There’s one more thing. A while back, I submitted a memorial to the Cabinet to recommend you. Zang Hai, your geomantic skills are famous across the Capital. The Emperor granted you a great honor. Starting today, you are the Imperial Astronomer. Congratulations, Zang Hai! No, Mr. Zang. Thank you, My Lord. And thank you, Young Master. Have a seat. The Astronomical Bureau works closely with the Ministry of Works. You and Zhifu will have many chances to work together. Both of you serve under the Emperor’s grace, so make sure to do your duties well. I’ll take good care of Zang Hai. Thank you, Young Master. In just six months, Zang Hai rose from aide to a fifth-rank official. Chu Huaiming was never as skilled. How could he compare to Mr. Zang? It’s all thanks to My Lord’s support. As a fifth-rank official, you’ll now have your own residence. Chu Huaiming’s old place was unlucky. So I picked a new one for you. Pack your things. You can move in tomorrow. I will never forget this great kindness. No matter where I go, I’ll always remember I came from the Marquis’s Mansion. That’s enough. In front of me, you’re no longer a lowly one, but a proper official now. Yes, My Lord. [Small Efforts, Lasting Impact] [Zang Residence] Greetings, My Lord. Father, you’re an official too. Why don’t you ride in one of those carriages? Officials ride in carriages, but walking on foot is still being an official. Besides, once you get used to riding, you get lazy to walk. You may never come down again. [Zang Residence] [Imperial Astronomical Bureau] [Imperial Astronomical Bureau] Greetings, Mr. Zang! This way, please. [Hall of Affairs] ♪Conceal the ambition in my eyes♪ ♪In my palm, I hold a dangerous desire♪ ♪Turbulent waves hidden in my sleeves♪ ♪Silent thunder echoes around…♪ Father, I’ve grown taller again! I can now reach the tip of the armillary sphere! You’ve played with it for a while, but do you know what it’s used for? It’s for star-gazing. Then do you know how it works? I have no idea. Want to learn? Yes! Come here. See these four rotating rings? Try turning them. Slower… A bit more… That’s it. Now move the sighting bar on top, and adjust it by three notches. At night, look through this tiny hole, and you’ll see the brightest star in the sky. Really? ♪My heart burns bright♪ ♪I control the shifting clouds♪ ♪I command the falling rain♪ ♪The compass of the human soul is unpredictable♪ ♪There will always be ups and downs♪ ♪I stay sharp♪ ♪I get mad♪ ♪When faith burns like the scorching sun♪ ♪I will sing aloud with you♪ ♪I am the sowing season♪ ♪I am the autumn harvest♪ [Hall of Affairs] ♪I am the people♪ ♪And you are also me♪ Greetings, My Lord! Everyone, please rise. My Lord, I’m Min Shining, Calendar Manager from the Astronomical Division. I’m Lin Wei, Water Clock Manager from the Timekeeping Division. I’m Shang Jiu, Forest Official from the Forestry Division. My Lord, I’m Chang Wuyi, Manager of Calendrical Calculations from the Geomancy Division. What about the Mortuary Division? My Lord, overseer Shi Quan from the Mortuary Division said he had urgent matters and couldn’t come to greet you. It’s all right. Lord Astronomer, we’ve waited a long time for you! The Bureau was founded to serve the heavens and the people. Though it’s a small department, whether it’s star-gazing, divination, or geomantic construction, each craft takes years to master. All of you have been here far longer than I have. I’ll be relying on you all for many things ahead. My Lord, you’re far too modest. If you say that, what does that make the rest of us? My Lord, I’ve always wondered how did you achieve such a high rank at your young age. Seeing you today, I’m convinced. Next to you, I’m all flaws and no worth. I hope you won’t mind my foolishness, and will continue to guide me, so I don’t embarrass myself. Enough small talk. Let’s get to official matters. Have you brought the documents from each division? – We have. – Yes, they’re here. Then let’s begin with the Astronomical Division. My Lord, the Astronomical Division’s duties include daily star observations [Astronomical Division Report]
and monitoring celestial phenomena. We also revise the summer calendar and precisely mark each solar term, [Astronomical Division Report]
so the people can follow the seasons and live in harmony. The Timekeeping Division manages the water clock and reports hours. [Timekeeping Division Report] It may seem minor, but precision is crucial. [Timekeeping Division Report] The Forestry Division’s work [Forestry Division Report]
is to collect timber for construction projects. Since spring began this year, we’ve supplied the palace with rare woods [Forestry Division Report]
such as huanghuali, rosewood, and wenge. A total of three thousand logs. My Lord, the Geomancy Division [Geomancy Division Report]
handles land surveying and soil testing. We assess terrain and locate auspicious burial sites. [Geomancy Division Report]
A pressing matter recently is the funeral of General Fu Zhisong. Very good. Leave all the documents here. Today is my first day in office, and there’s still much I need to study. I’ll make notes on the documents as needed. If I have further questions, I’ll visit you all privately this afternoon. You may go now. My Lord, shall we take a look at the study? [Reports from Geomancy and Forestry Divisions]
Please instruct us on its setup and use. No. Take me to the Mortuary Division first. The most delicate mortuary skill is stitching and patching. For stitching, we use mulberry bark fiber to sew skin wounds and reattach separated parts. As for patching, usually we use dough. But General Fu held great rank, so we’ll use sandalwood to restore his body. Understood? – Yes, My Lord. – Yes, My Lord. These bones here are all broken. We’ll bind them with copper wire. Here it is. Not that. The scissors. Here it is. My Lord. – My Lord! – My Lord! Which of you is Shi Quan? My Lord, how may I help? I’d like to speak to you alone. The rest of you, step out. – Yes, sir. – Yes, sir. My Lord, are you here to question me? Is there anything to question? The general’s body arrived this morning. It must be prepared immediately. I hope you’ll understand. His Majesty ordered a grand burial for General Fu. The body was delayed on the road, so preparing it early was the right call. It’s not winter yet. Even a few hours’ difference can make a big impact. Just now, were you teaching them? Why are they the only ones helping you with such important work? Mr. Chu said mortuary work isn’t demanding, so he cut our division’s staff to save costs. I’m usually the only one here. I just have the apprentices help out. They’re from civilian families, so they’re still a bit clumsy. I’ll lend a hand. I didn’t expect you to be this skilled. I learned this as a child, but never got the hang of it. To be good at this, you need more than talent. It takes a lot of patience. You’re too modest, My Lord. You’ve served in the Bureau for many years, right? Have you always been stationed here? My Lord, no need to be so polite with me. Say what’s on your mind. Did you come to the Astronomical Bureau to make a fortune, or just to climb the ranks? I don’t really care. I only hope you’ll let me work in peace and focus on my duties. [Zang Residence] Make sure this courtyard is spotless every day, not a speck of dust left behind. It’s Mr. Zang’s first day in office. Inform the kitchen, tonight’s meal must be perfect! Understood? From now on, all of you… – My Lord. – My Lord. My Lord. Enough. Off you go, now. You’re back! I met all the officials at the Astronomical Bureau today… Don’t talk about that yet. Turn around first. Go on, turn! Take a few steps. Master… This outfit suits you well. The first clothes you wore in the Capital were the ones I got for you. Now you’re in full official robes. Looks good. If Xing Dou saw you now, he’d probably complain that one sleeve’s longer. So, how did it go today? The Bureau now is nothing like when my father was in charge. Back then, everyone had their role, and got along well. If my father could help, he always would. But now, everyone wears a mask. There’s no sincerity left. What nonsense! Your father was just a man who ran funeral business. He had nothing to do with the Bureau. Now that you hold office, you’re not just an aide from the Marquis’s Mansion anymore. More eyes are on you. Back at the Marquis’s Mansion, as long as he trusted you, it was enough. But in court, daggers come from every direction. You’ll need to be more careful. You’re right, Master. The Bureau today is full of opportunists and spies. I’m afraid the road ahead won’t be smooth. When Chu Huaiming was in charge, the Bureau served the wicked many times. I’ve heard of those stories. Ever hear about the missing daughter of the Lin family? That was three years ago. The Lin family’s girl had just turned thirteen. But Duke E’s eldest son fancied her. He insisted on making her his concubine. But he was thirty years older than her. The Lin family flatly refused. Strangely enough, that young master died from overdosing. The Lin family thought it was over, until three days after his death, their daughter suddenly vanished. Guess where they found her? Where? In the tomb of Duke E’s son. She’d been strangled, wearing a bridal gown. Her poor parents went mad with grief. But the Great Yong law clearly forbids ghost marriages! That rule only applies to commoners. The court turns a blind eye when it’s nobles. That ghost marriage might’ve been arranged by the Astronomical Bureau! And not just that. Last October, under the guise of aiding nobles, the Bureau took over every orchard in Wang Village. Left with nowhere to appeal, those poor farmers were forced from their homes. This Bureau is long overdue for a clean-up. ♪Conceal the ambition in my eyes♪ ♪In my palm, I hold a dangerous desire♪ ♪Turbulent waves hidden in my sleeves♪ ♪Silent thunder echoes around♪ ♪However cunning you are♪ ♪I can see♪ ♪Right through you♪ ♪Schemes are my armor♪ ♪Overt plans are my weapons♪ ♪With restrained fury♪ ♪I purge the world’s corruption♪ ♪The night is not dark♪ ♪Because♪ ♪My heart burns bright♪ ♪I control the shifting clouds♪ ♪I command the falling rain♪ ♪The compass of the human soul is unpredictable♪ ♪There will always be ups and downs♪ ♪I hold the power of life and death♪ ♪I grant and I take away♪ ♪When faith burns like the scorching sun♪ ♪I will sing aloud with you♪ ♪I am the sowing season♪ ♪I am the autumn harvest♪ ♪I am the world♪ ♪I am the people♪ ♪And you are also me♪