Auntie, you really have great taste. This dress is so pretty. But I'm not going to do anything. No need to wear something like this. Silly child, what are you saying? <i>[ Yongzheng's Empress Ula-Nara (Wulanala) ]
</i>I want to let you wear this dress and take part in Hong Li's wife selection. Auntie, Brother Hong Li and I are like siblings. <i>[ Qingying's Personal Maid, A'Ruo ]
</i>How can I be part of his wife selection? I'm not going? No wonder Hong Shi doesn't like you. What nonsense are you saying? I'm not speaking nonsense. Brother Hong Li indeed say that I go there to help him choose, but he didn't say that he'll choose me to be his wife. Moreover, I got refused by Third Prince already. I'm not going anymore. You will go where I tell you to! Hong Shi right now is showing signs of losing favor. What's wrong with marrying Hong Li? There are no important high-ranking officials from the Ula-Nara (Wulanala) clan in the past reigns. - Only—
- Only women in the Imperial harem. The two of us should continue the glory of the Ula-Nara clan, or else, let's see how you're going to face our past ancestors. You've spoken those words to me so many times. I've said it to you so many times, but you didn't seem to have heard them. This time, I'm putting them in my heart. I'll accept this beautiful dress. I'll take my leave. - Hey! Qingying!
- Hey! Gege! - Qingying!
- Gege! Qingying! This brat... So stubborn. Don't rush. Gege is full of life and has been childhood friends with the Fourth Prince.
<i>(Empress' Personal Maid, Xiu Xia)</i> If she goes, she surely will get chosen as <i>Princess Consort.</i> (T/N aka main/first wife, di'fujin) Your Highness the Empress! Your Highness the Empress, Third Prince got lectured by His Majesty in Yangxin Palace Hall! His Majesty wants to see you immediately! You kept being unfilial, but I forgave you. Now, you've banded together some underlings and colluded with government officials. [<i> Yongzheng's Third Royal Son, Hong Shi</i> ]
<i>What is your real intention!</i> Royal Father...all these...are just people helping me. They all know that I'm the eldest son, and of direct line, h-hence, they will make these memorials to defend me. You said it well. <i>[ Emperor Yongzheng ]</i> How come they all are saying nice things about you? If not because there were two memorials complaining about you, I almost believed that you indeed have such high prestige in the Imperial court! Greetings to Your Majesty. You came just in time. Look at the good son you've raised. Look at how he is disloyal, unfilial, and treacherous he is! You've already seen the ladies. Lady Gao is dainty and adorable. She's quite compatible with you. Lady Fuca is composed and prudent. She is a more perfect match for you. Hong Li. Yes, Royal Mother.
<i>[ Noble Consort Xi, Lady Niuhuru (Niuhulu) (T/N aka Zhen Huan) ]</i> Royal Mother, can I choose based on who I want? I told you that you must choose a wife based on being virtuous, choose a concubine based on her looks. The more you should be cautious in choosing a main wife. It's one thing to like her, it's another thing if she'll be able to help you. This concerns our future here in this palace. Your future main wife must be able to help us. I told you before that the Fuca clan is full of important officials. My <i>Niuhuru</i> clan is incomparable to them. (T/N standardized spelling of "Niuhulu") You should understand the importance of this matter. I understand. Your Highness the Noble Consort, it's almost the auspicious time. Can we start the selection? Okay. It's time. Set out your sight and choose well. Yes. The auspicious time is here! Enter the <i>xiunv</i>! Greetings to Noble Consort Xi. Greetings to the Fourth Prince. You may rise. Thank you, Your Highness the Noble Consort. The person who will be chosen as the main wife today will be granted a <i>ruyi.</i> (T/N a small scepter, symbol of power and good fortune) The one chosen as the second wife will be given a purse. Those who were not chosen will be given one hundred <i>liang</i> in gold and sent back to their manors. (T/N currency, also known as a <i>tael</i>) The <i>xiunv</i> joining today are from Fuca Clan of the Manchurian Bordered Yellow Banner, the daughter of the Overall Director of Chahar Province, Li Rongbao;
<i>[ Fuca Langhua ]</i> Gao Clan, <i>Baoyi</i> of the Bordered Yellow Banner,
<i>[ Gao Xiyue ]
(Baoyi - middle-class men given important/higher-ranked duties by nobility)</i> the daughter of Gao Bin, the Salt Commissioner of East and West Huai; Guaerjia Clan, Manchurian Pure White Banner, the daughter of Vice Minister Sai Ke from the Ministery of Revenue... Gege, are we still going to Jiangxue Pavilion? If we don't go now, we won't make it. You're not planning to not attend, right? Her Highness the Empress and our manor are all looking forward to it. How come you talk like Auntie and Father now? But isn't the Fourth Prince also looking forward to your being there? He even said for you to check things out on his behalf. Gege, say, what does Fourth Prince mean with this "checking things out"? Could it be that whoever you choose, he will choose? Who knows what he's thinking. Could it be that after checking and checking, Fourth Prince will choose you? Absolutely not. He said that he won't. If he really chooses me, the more so I can't marry him. Why? Don't you like him? When did I tell you that I like him? Yes... You never told me. But my eyes can see. I'm not going. I will never go. - Don't be like this, Gege. Let's go.
- I'm not going. Gege... Hong Li, go and choose. Royal Mother, how about we wait a little longer? Wait for what? Qingying... Little Sister Qingying isn't here yet. Gege Qingying just got rejected by Third Prince. <i>[ Noble Consort Xi's Personal Maid, Fujia ]
</i>She must have felt embarrassed, so she might not come. The auspicious time has come. We can't wait anymore. Go. Go on. <i>[ Gao Xiyue's Personal Maid, Xingxuan; Fuca Langhua's Personal Maid, Su Lian ]</i> <i>Gege! Gege! Slow down!</i> <i>Gege, wait for me!</i> <i>That is Gege Qingying?</i> She really came here. Greetings, Noble Consort Xi. I came late. Gege Qingying, why did you come so late? Fine. Since you're here, go there and stand. Yes. You're here. I came to look at who you'll choose. How can I miss such a good show? Continue with the wife selection! Ula-Nara Clan from the Manchurian Pure Yellow Banner, the daughter of Assistant Captain Naerbu. Third Prince Hong Shi is being removed from the Imperial genealogy. I have no such son starting today. - Royal Father! Royal Father, don't treat me like this.
- Your Majesty! Royal Father... Royal Mother, save me...Royal Mother, save me... - Your Majesty...
- Royal Father... - Your Majesty...Your Majesty!
- Royal Mother! Royal Mother! - You can't treat your eldest son like this.
- Royal Mother! Royal Mother! <i>Royal Mother! Royal Mother!</i> - Your Majesty, please calm down. It's my fault for not teaching him well.
<i>- Royal Mother!</i> I admit my mistake. I am willing to get confined for half a year. Get confined up for half a year? Hong Shi was so presumptuous to form alliances and make <i>collusion.</i> (T/N a secret pact) You dare say that he didn't have your permission? Your Majesty, please investigate it wisely. I did no such thing. Now, you dare extend your hand to the major state affairs. I can't allow you to stay anymore. I admit my mistake. I won't dare to do it again. In consideration that I have one child with you, I will not remove you from your position, but I must punish you. Empress Ula-Nara caused a disturbance in the Imperial harem and colluded to instigate the Imperial court. How can she respectfully propagate the royal bloodline and be a mother to the world? She is to be confined in Jingren Palace and not allowed to come out forever. Your Majesty... You and I are not to meet again in this lifetime or in death. Your Majesty, you mustn't abandon me. - Men!
- In my heart, I only have you, that's why I became this muddled. I only have you in my heart, that's why I got this muddled! Your Majesty! Your Majesty! <i>Your Majesty!</i> Where is Hong Li choosing his wife? <i>[ Su Peisheng ]
</i>Replying to Your Majesty, in Jiangxue Pavilion. Lady Fuca is composed and prudent. She's very suitable to be... the choice for the second wife. Grant her a purse. <i>Just a second wife?</i> <i>Indeed.</i> Thank you, Fourth Prince. Gege Xiyue is like her name, there is no light yet in the east, just pretty moonlight, wind, and frost. Thank you, Fourth Prince, for praising me. With such beauty, grant her one hundred liang in gold. Thank you, Fourth Prince. Gege Qingying is smart and quick-witted. She's suitable to be... the main wife. Grant her one ruyi. <i>Main wife...</i> <i>She got picked?</i> <i>- So unexpected.
- That's right...</i> <i>Of course.</i> I came to help you check the choices. Why are you giving me this? I told you that I'll give it to you. - I was joking with you.
- Who's joking with you? This is an important matter that concerns the rest of your life. You mustn't treat it as child's play. If you continue to fool around, I'm leaving. What? You don't dare to take it? Royal Mother, I'm done choosing. Congratulations Gege Qingying in becoming the main wife. Say thank you for the grace bestowed on you. Thank you, Fourth Prince. - Hong Li!
<i>- His Majesty is here!</i> Greetings to Your Majesty. Your Majesty, our Fourth Prince has already chosen Gege Qingying as his main wife. No, he can't. Royal Father, why not? Gege Qingying is the niece of Imperial Royal Mother. That is exactly the reason why she can't be selected. The Empress has committed a mistake and has been confined in Jingren Palace until her death. Your Majesty, what mistake did Her Highness the Empress commit that you must punish her this gravely? The Empress tried to usurp my throne. I didn't have her killed, that is already being benevolent to her. Your Majesty, Her Highness the Empress has already suffered severe punishment. Please don't vent your anger on Third Prince. His Majesty has a decree! Third Prince Hong Shi is being removed from the Imperial genealogy. He's no longer part of the Imperial family. Royal Father, even if Third Brother committed a mistake, he shouldn't suffer such grave punishment. May Royal Father show some mercy, taking into consideration that he's your son. In the Imperial family, we are ruler and his subject first, before father and son. No need for you to beg for leniency on behalf of Hong Shi. Also, Qingying is a descendant of the Ula-Nara Clan. With the situation right now, you must carefully consider if you want her to enter your house. Royal Father, Gege Qingying was here in Jiangxue Pavilion all this time. She didn't know anything at all. She shouldn't be implicated. To add further, Third Brother refused to marry her. She will lose her status again. A woman from the harem, how can she have a standing in this world? You are speaking up for her? Royal Father is wise. Royal Mother's family crime shouldn't be passed on to her family. Gege Qingying is also your family. Hongli, stop making Royal Father angry. - Su Peisheng.
- Here. Escort Qingying out from the palace. Yes, Your Majesty. Gege Qingying, this way, please. - Uncle.
- Gege Qingying, please be cautious. Uncle. Based on your ten years of deep affection with Aunt, could you please treat her with some kindness? I'm not blessed to serve you. Please take care. - Qingying--
- Hongli, don't lose your propriety. Your Majesty, it's a happy occasion for the choosing of a wife today. Should we conduct the wife selection? Hongli. Forget it. The auspicious time has passed. I can see that you are tired too. Let's talk about this another day. We respectfully see Your Majesty off. Fourth Brother. Sister Qingying, sorry. With Aunt to be confined here forever, what other solutions do we still have? Royal Father is furious right now. I will wait for a while before I plead again. Rather than you trying hard to argue and beg for mercy, my words will be more useful. Thank you, Fourth Brother. About the issue regarding Jiang Xuexuan, just wait for me. I will beg His Majesty again. You must stay with me. - Su Peisheng.
- I'm here. Escort Gege Qingying safely out from the palace. Yes. Gege, this way, please. <i> Subtitles and Timings By The Qing Hair and Those who Dare Team @ Viki.com</i> <i>Greetings to Royal Father.</i> If you came here about yesterday, don't bother wasting your time talking then. Right. Don't you like playing with ink and words? Come and take a look. Check out my drawing of the bamboo. People usually paint bamboo using black ink. <i>Dongpo Jushi</i> started the style of drawing bamboo using red ink. (T/N "Resident of the Eastern Slope", pseudonym of Su Shi, aka Su Dongpo, courtesy name Zishan, Song Dynasty) I once saw Royal Grandfather draw red bamboo. Talking about this, I'm slightly envious of you. I have never seen him draw red bamboo. I have never seen any of Royal Father's paintings either. I didn't have the chance in the past. Within the walls of the palace, fathers and sons rarely get close together. It's normal too. Within the walls of the palace, it's also not easy to ask for a wish from a person. In this world, one doesn't always get what he wishes for. But when it involves one's innocence, I must express my true state of mind. Is it that urgent if anyone is innocent? What's more urgent is for you to think of what kind of a wife you want? Royal Father, for all these years, this is my only request I have. I have known Qingying since I was young. Regardless of what her status is, I don't mind. In the past, you could not mind this. Today, you can't do this. <i>Come with me.</i> Sit. I told you to sit. Yes. I feel awkward. Why? If I sit, it's disrespectful. If I don't, I'm defying you. This is why when you are born in an Imperial family, you can't just do as you want. Come and take a seat too. Come. When I sit on the Dragon Throne, I can't do whatever I like either. What I say and do, it's for the generations of the Great Qing dynasty. You are here to make a request regarding your marriage. Frankly speaking, I can't help but to consider about it for you too. But regarding your marriage, it doesn't only just concern you. From my point of view, it should be based on appearance. Hongli, you are already an adult. You should start to share my burdens. Regarding the affairs of the country and marriage, there is always a justification. Whatever it's suitable for you, you may not necessarily get it. What you need to do, it's not necessarily what you want. Every decision has its gains. It also has a price too. I understand. Lady Fuca is dignified and magnanimous. She's the best choice for the main wife position. But Royal Father, I still hope that Qingying can stay with me. As this Ula-Nara is your only request, I will permit you to take her as your second wife. Thank you, Royal Father, for granting my request. But you will also marry Miss Gao as your concubine. Yes. Excellent. Su Peisheng. Here. The Fourth Prince is gentle and respectful. He executes tasks with respect. I confer him as <i>Bao Qinwang</i>. (T/N Prince Bao of the First Rank) <i>Yes, Your Majesty.</i> Thank you, Royal Father, for your grace! Father, we're really not going to beg for leniency for my aunt anymore? What your aunt said is right. His Majesty is currently very mad. If we beg him now, it will only bring trouble to our Ula-Nara Clan.
<i>[ Qingying's Father, Naerbu ]</i> Qingying, we're worrying about your aunt's matter right now. But what about your matter? You lost in the wife selections of two princes. <i>[ Qingling's Mother, Madam Naerbu ]
</i>What kind of man can you marry in the future then? <i>Imperial Decree for Naerbu!</i> What has happened? It's a celebratory matter. You and Gege Qingying, please kneel to accept the decree. Quickly kneel. "As mandated by the heavens, the Emperor is making this decree. The daughter of Assistant Captain Naerbu, Lady Ula-Nara, has innately pure and wonderful morals, wise and capable. Gentle, ladylike, and upright, known outside to be virtuous. I order you to become the second wife of Qinwang Bao." End of decree. I accept the decree. - "Qinwang Bao"?
- That's right. His Majesty has conferred the title "Qinwang Bao" to the Fourth Prince and ordered Gege Langhua of the Fuca Clan as the main wife of Qinwang Bao. Your Gege Qingying will be his second wife. Also, Gege Xiyue from Official Gao's house will become a concubine. Really? Qingying has become the second wife of Prince Bao of the First Rank? How can this be fake? Gege Qingying, the pouch that you were unable to get that day, I'm personally delivering it to you now. This pouch didn't come so easily. Prince Bao begged His Majesty for it. Thank you, Eunuch. Qinwang Bao will marry the Princess Consort Lady Fuca on the first day of the eighth month. The second wife Lady Ula-Nara and Concubine Gao will enter the manor on the second of the eighth month. Make preparations then. I will accept the decree. Thank you for His Majesty's grace. Qingying! Why did it take you so long to come? I've been waiting for you for a long time. You're unhappy? I know that being a second wife is an unfair treatment for you. That's not what's bothering me. I'm considering right now if I should marry into the royal family or not. Is it because of Imperial Mother? Yes. Before, when I played here, I found it fun. But looking at the palace now, I feel scared. Regarding Imperial Mother, we'll come up with a idea eventually. I also understand your current feelings. But being born into the Imperial family, there's not one day that I haven't felt the coldness and ruthlessness of these palace walls. Qingying, I will try my best to protect you and not let you suffer again. If we ever face any problems again in the future, let's face it together. Noble Consort Xi will never like me, right? Royal Father has already granted you to me. I believe that Royal Mother will not say anything anymore. Also, I have talked with Royal Mother to not embroil you with Imperial Mother's matter. I also expressed to her that the person my heart really desires is only you. Brother Hong Li. Do you know that that day right here, when I asked you to join my wife selection, I was so nervous. In Jiangxue Pavilion, when you hadn't arrived yet, I was so anxious. Good thing you eventually came and even accepted my ruyi. My heart became at ease then. I also understand your personality. No one can force you to do the things that you don't want to do. Hence, you have me in your heart, right? I just want to ask you...are you willing to be with me? From now on, you don't need to fear anything. With me around, be at ease. Second Madam is here! Concubine Yue is here! May Second Madam and Concubine Yue enter the manor to pay some respects! Greet His Highness and Madam! (Princess Consort, the first wife) You may rise. Thank you, Your Highness and Madam. You all have met my main wife before. These are dowry items granted to me by His Majesty during my wedding. I heard that they are tributes from Annan. (T/N aka "Annam", the old name for Vietnam) Hence, I'm gifting them to you to show my desire for an amicable relationship. Thank you, Madam for your grace. From now on, we're sisters that will be serving our husband together. No need to be so formal. Your lodgings have been prepared. Today is the celebratory day of your entrance to the manor. Go and have some early rest. I'll take my leave. Your Highness. It's rare to see you sitting in such a disciplined manner. I'm a bit not used to it. I'm also not used to it. How about I remove your veil, so you can feel more relaxed? Okay. Beautiful. You're more beautiful that I imagined. You also look good in red. QIngying, you finally are married to me. It seems like a dream. I also feel like I'm just dreaming. Let me whisper some words to you. Isn't that inappropriate? I chose you. Being just a second wife is already unfair for you. Of course, my first night must be with you. She is my legal main wife. I will love her with respect. Concubine, His Highness went to Second Madam's place tonight. Although Master slept in Madam's room last night, they didn't consummate their marriage.
[ Rongxin ] Really? Absolutely true. Then it means that Madam is also unhappy about this. Concubine, if you're able to get Madam's help, you won't be afraid to have no backer here in the manor. Go get my pipa. (T/N Chinese four-stringed lute) Yes. I don't believe that I'll be a concubine forever. Maybe tomorrow night, Husband will come to my room. Concubine is multi-talented. Master will surely like you. Husband went to Second Wife's room? How is that possible? Did you not see it wrong? Madam, I didn't make a mistake. Master indeed is resting in Second Madam's room.
[ Lianxin ] The candle light has already been extinguished. Leave now. Yes. Madam, although Master rested in your room last night, he used the excuse of being too tired and didn't consummate your marriage. Tonight, he went to Second Madam's place. This... Today is the day that Second Wife entered the manor. It's just right that Husband goes there. But no matter what, Old Madam said it right. You should use some methods. You should guard against Second Madam and the other concubines. The more Husband likes her, the more I should show the bearing of a main wife. I must do it better. Act more like a main wife than anyone else. If Husband can't find any lapses, he will feel that I'm the best choice to be the main wife. [ Six Years Later - Thirteenth Year of Yongzheng's Reign ]
[ Thirteenth Day of the Ninth Lunar Month - October 8, 1735 ]
Greetings to Madam. Everyone sit. Thank you, Madam. Decree to promote Sister Xiyue to Second Madam came out. (T/N up to two second wives permitted) Congratulations, Madam Yue. Back when you and Qingying married into this manor at the same time, I gifted you each a golden lotus jade bracelet. It was my hope that you could be close sisters without regarding to your status. Now you've become a Second Madam too, and I'm so happy. Thank you, Madam. The bracelet you gifted me,
[ Concubine Su Lüyun ] Madam Qing and I myself both wear it daily.
[ Concubine Jin Yuyan ] It is all thanks to Madam's teaching that I have this day today. Your father has been unwavering in his devotion to His Majesty.
[ Concubine Keliyete Hailan ] Lately with His Majesty's health unwell and the Prince helping with state governing, your father has been of great assistance. His Majesty wanting to reward you is only natural. Lüyun, you've just given birth to Yongzhang, so you must be diligent in looking after your health. Thank you, Madam, for your care. Talking about it, Qingying, Xiyue, and I married in around the same time. It's been quite some time since Yuyan came from House of Yu. Even Qiying, Hailan and Wanyin have served the Prince for long.
[ Concubine Huang Qiying; Concubine Chen Wanyin ] When will you all have children, so you can help the Prince spread abundance to his branch? Yes. We do not possess the fortune you have, Madam, to have both a daughter and a son. No need to rush. Take it slow, and you will all have too. It's getting late. You all should return now. We take our leave of Madam. Madam! Second Madams! Concubines! Bad news! Speak clearly. What happened? His Majesty. His Majesty has passed away. Your Majesty! What about His Highness? As soon as His Highness heard of the news, he entered the palace. Kneel.
[ A.D. 1735. Qing's Emperor Yongzheng has died.
The Fourth Prince, Hongli, ascends to the throne. First bow. Second bow. Third bow. Rise. Kneel. First bow. Second bow. Third bow. Rise. Kneel. First bow. Second bow. Third bow. Lament. Your wife greets you, Your Majesty. You're here. I saw at the funeral these last couple of days how dried Your Majesty's lips and spirit looked. And your eyes were red-tinted, so I made Your Majesty a bowl of almond soup. To moisten up your lungs. Come here. Sit. Your Majesty. I said to sit, so sit. Delicious. Last time the two of us chatted so quietly was still at the manor. Now, it seems everything's changed. Yes. Back then, how could we have known the late Emperor would pass away. Your Majesty is now carrying a thousand weights upon your shoulders. Royal Father's funeral and the court affairs are all alright. It's just that there is a difficult situation before me and I'm not sure what to do. What is it? In court, someone suggested that I should release your aunt from Jingren Palace, and entitle her as Imperial Mother, Empress Dowager. It's been so many years, and you must wish for your aunt's release. Naturally I do wish for my aunt to be released from her imprisonment, so she can live her late life in peace, and I'll be able to look after her. However, it was the late Emperor who ordered for her confinement. Nomination for Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager is a state affair, so as your wife... I'm not in convenient position to say anything. I thought of how Royal Father once said when he was alive, that we would never see the Empress in Jingren Palace in this life or the afterlife. So it is quite the emotional agony for me. But then I thought if I could release your aunt and restore her dignity, you would have someone you can lean on and your life could be more smooth. Your Majesty, I am very grateful you are mindful of me and my aunt. But you needn't worry too much, Your Majesty. There will be a way to resolve this matter somehow. If it's hard, Your Majesty needn't compromise yourself too much. I understand. Is it true that this is what's been said? Yes. As soon as Minister Naquin heard of it, he sent word in to let you be aware. The late Emperor left no instructions on what to do with the Jingren Palace Empress. So now the trouble has arrived. It was said that it was Councilor Zhang Tingyu who first suggested it to His Majesty, and a few grand ministers seconded it. That old rascal Zhang Tingyu. Always putting old traditions and rules and order of concubinage as more important than life! His wanting to put her in as the Empress Dowager is to slight me. Lord Zhang only cares about proper rules and he may not be intentionally going against you. Wouldn't I know about that bunch of old rascals? To weaken the power of the Imperial harem would allow the old subjects from the previous dynasty to be that much more influential to His Majesty. But Zhang Tingyu is not the only one who can speak in court. Fujia, send word back to Naquin. He will know what to do. Yes. Empress Dowager, isn't this a matter that His Majesty has all the say in? You should just go tell His Majesty you don't want that. Back during his wife selection, the Emperor was never in agreement with me. So in this matter now, let's not say anything first. I need to see how the Emperor feels. And keep a tally on how many hold regard for that one inside Jingren Palace. First bow. Second bow. Third bow. Rise. Royal Mother, the dishes today were all contributed by us. May Royal Mother try them. Empress Dowager, are you going to drink the soup first? Empress Dowager, this is a ham and chicken soup made by Mistress Qing.
[ Cheng Han ] Using a ham to pair with a nice chicken soup, the voice of the guest overwhelms that of the host. (T/N minor flavor upstaging the main attraction) I only wanted to use the fresh flavor to open up the Empress Dowager's appetite. Never thought that it instead disturbed the Empress Dowager. It's my fault. If two things are going to be cooked together, it should be clear which is the main attraction, which is just a side. If both are strong, it will destroy the taste. I admit my mistake. Looks like these two things can't be merged. Empress Dowager, I'll just cook you a clear chicken soup next time. Call someone to remove all these dishes! I don't have the appetite. Royal Mother, you are grieving for the former Emperor, hence, not feeling well to begin with. If you still not take any food, you will not be able to take it.
[ Suoxin ] It's better that you take in a bit of food. It's not easy for Empress Dowager to finally decide to have dinner, yet her appetite got destroyed by Sister Qingying. This afternoon, there are even several hours of mourning ceremony. Sister Qingying, do you want the Empress Dowager to endure that starving? I committed a mistake and am willing to receive punishment. Hope Empress Dowager will consider your precious health and take in some food. Royal Mother, the citizens treat food as their heaven, rice as the master of all food. It is because rice is the most nourishing food. When the past Emperor was still alive, he loved eating congee the most. Have some too. Fine. In terms of food, how great of a principle can there be? It's just judging the hour and sizing up the situation. Stop presuming to be clever. I understand. You may rise. Thank you, Empress Dowager. When does Hong Li plan to let me out of here and address me as Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager? Must you become the Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager? The rules of the palace already exist! The past Emperor never deposed me from being an Empress. I'm the legal Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager. (T/N officially the Empress is mother of all offspring, as the "legal wife") I should be living in Cining Palace! What then after you live in Cining Palace? Fight again with that Lady Niuhuru to determine who the victor is. Unending fights will eventually hurt you. Even if I'll end up badly battered, I'm going to fight with her until the very end. Qingying, you must be of one heart with me. You must let Hong Li release me as soon as possible. His Majesty is already being put in a very difficult spot. Is your surname Ula-Nala or Aisin-Gioro ? (T/N Qing Dynasty Imperial Clan name) I'm worried about you. If you truly worry about me, you should know that my only wish in this life is to live and die with the past Emperor. Past Emperor has abandoned you, he personally said that he doesn't want to see you whether in life or in death. (T/N not attend funeral or buried together) If he won't see me, I'll go see him. He abandoned me... but I will never leave him. Qingying, only by becoming the Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager can I be connected with the Past Emperor in life and death. I must fight for this status. Get up. For everything I've told you today, do you understand what you should do? I understand. Your Majesty, Mistress Qing is here. Your Majesty. Sit. Why did you come this late? I know that my aunt's matter is still troubling Your Majesty. I also hope that this matter can have a resolution soon. But it's hard to fulfill both etiquette and filial piety. Your Majesty, I want to beg you for a favor. Say it. Can you allow Auntie to live the rest of her life in a temporary imperial residence? That's what you want? If you are going to support Auntie to live in a temporary imperial residence as an Empress Dowager, even if you temporarily don't give her any official title, you can give some response to those who support respecting the main wife. And those who are against conferring Auntie to be the Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager, if they see that Auntie has left the Imperial Forbidden City without being conferred an official title, they probably will not say anything anymore. As for Empress Dowager, I also have thought of it. If two Empresses Dowager are here in the Forbidden City, these two elders have fought all their lives, it can't be helped for them to continue being hostile in the future. If the Imperial harem isn't tranquil, Your Majesty also will get affected. Why not just let Auntie go to a temporary imperial residence to live the rest of her life? Letting her avoid Empress Dowager will also be a good thing. You're saying that His Majesty has already secretly sent people to the temporary imperial residence to do the preparations? Yes. After Second Madam Qing left the Yangxin Palace Hall, His Majesty then sent people to clean up the temporary imperial residence and set it up to make it suitable to care for an empress dowager. Absurd! Could it be His Majesty will really confer that Lady Ula-Nara as a Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager? Even if she's going to move to another place, leaving the Imperial Forbidden City, and not staying with you here, being the Imperial Mother and Empress Dowager will still set her above you. It must be that Qingying brat that came up with such an idea. Jingren Palace colluding with Second Madam Qing like this, it can't be helped for a young Emperor to get convinced by her. If I had known this would happen, I wouldn't have allowed Qingying to stay. After the mourning ceremony tomorrow, tell her to come see me. Greetings to the Empress Dowager. Did you get scared when Fujia told you to come here? What I fear when I'm being called by the Empress Dowager is I might not be able to serve you properly and not practice filial duties on behalf of His Majesty. Your filial duties probably have all been done in Jingren Palace. Empress Dowager, please forgive me for being bold. The person in Jingren Palace is my loved one. I must go visit her. Just to visit? I also asked His Majesty to allow Auntie to live the rest of her life in a temporary imperial residence. You're being delusional! Do you feel that you can use that small affection that His Majesty has for you to oppress me? Empress Dowager, I don't have such intentions. I just hope that Auntie can continue living in a peaceful manner. Peaceful manner? Without any official title, will your Auntie peacefully walk out of Jingren Palace and go to a temporary imperial residence? With you as Ula-Nara Yixiu's hope, you think your Auntie will be able to live the rest of her life in peace? You want your aunt to live? Sure. If she loses a backer like you, I can give her this chance to live. We are amid the late Emperor's mourning ceremony. After the ceremony, you are to commit suicide. You will not beg me to be merciful and spare you? Empress Dowager, you've granted me my death. Hence, your mind must be set. I know begging will be useless. If you don't want to die, that's not impossible either. I can give you a choice. The clan of Ula-Nara. It can have your aunt only without you. It can have you only without your aunt. If I am to die, will you be willing to allow my aunt her wish of being buried together with the late Emperor? How devoted you are. As long as she will be docile in her retirement in Shengjing Palace, I'll allow her to be buried with the late Emperor. Just without a title. Thank you, Empress Dowager. However, if His Majesty were to find out what you and I said today, your aunt will be like you, unable to live. I understand. Thank you, Empress Dowager. [ Star Mount ] Empress Dowager, it seems Mistress Qing might have gone to Yangxin Palace. She wouldn't have said something, right? Regarding Jingren Palace, I've made most of the arrangements. I just didn't expect that the word would get out, and I need to be mindful of Royal Mother's sentiment. In order to pacify Royal Mother and for your aunt's sake, for her to be able to enjoy a peaceful late life, as far as having her looked after as Empress Dowager, I need to make the arrangements slowly. I understand all about Your Majesty's difficult stance. I am just sad for my aunt. Don't worry. I will see to it that the Jingren Palace Empress is moved to old Shengjing Palace to rest well. On this matter, she lacks only the title. Being in disharmony with the Emperor only harms the women. May Your Majesty take pity on my aunt and not allow her to suffer in the old Shengjing Palace. Listen to yourself! Don't worry. Every time I go to Shengjing, I will be sure to bring you with me to visit her. And I will dispatch servants often to look after her. I thank you, Your Majesty. If you want to thank me, don't do so only with words. I miss your subtly-fragranced soup. When will you make me another bowl? But the peach blossoms haven't bloomed. How could I make this soup? I know you like peach blossoms. After fall leaves, it will be winter and lots of peach blossoms will bloom. At that time, make me a few extra bowls. You won't consent to it? I consent. What's wrong? I just remembered the time we first met. That day, we met as "wall-heads" on horses together. Each upon a horse and with head over the wall, gazing from afar. Once I saw you, my heart was broken. I remember. Qingying. You and I loved each other ever since we were young. Though you were not able to become the main wife, our love is not something anyone can compare to. Do you know that? I understand. Your Majesty. If in the future I am unable to come greet you daily, I will still pray for Your Majesty's royal health always and all things fair to come your way. What are you doing? Hurry and rise. Rise up quickly. What's wrong with you today? I understand about your aunt. A woman, for a title, a lifelong lament. I understand you. I am like you. I pity your aunt equally. Aunt. You may rise. I was about to summon you. I'm here to tell you that His Majesty has arranged for you to go to Shengjing Palace to live your remaining years there. What do you mean by this? I won't be in the historical book and cremated in the temple of ancestors. I will be buried without a virtuous name and status of the late Emperor. I won't be sleeping in the same grave with him. It's not like that. As long as you live peacefully in that palace, you will have a ceremonial funeral and be interred with the late Emperor. What did you use in exchange to pay the price for this arrangement? His Majesty dotes on me. That's why he arranged this. Without Lady Niuhuru's agreement, would His Majesty have agreed? She must have made you decide. Who will be able to survive between the two aunts? The Empress Dowager came to visit you? Qingying, I have taken care of this. I know your personality. In order to protect me, you will sacrifice yourself to protect my status. But Lady Niuhuru has always wanted me to die. Will it be of any use if you die? To add further, if you die, would your beloved Hongli spare me? Would he let me change my fortunes? Even if he takes care of me because I'm your aunt, as the imposing Empress of the Great Qing Dynasty, how can I possibly breathe under Lady Niuhuru, lingering feebly without a name and status? I need to die so that she will allow you to live. You will then be able to continue the glory of my story. Aunt. You are already under His Majesty's care. You are my only hope. You must be favored. You must become the Empress. But Aunt, I have never wanted the position of Empress. I only want to live happily with His Majesty for a long time. Hongli is in your heart, right? Don't you want to be deeply in love with him and be buried with him after death? Only by being the Empress, you can live and die with him. But Lady Fuca is a good Imperial Consort. She will be a good Empress in the future. If you are mediocre, you won't have any ambition. How did the Ula-Nara Clan give birth to such a child as you? Aunt. Aunt, what's wrong with you? Help me up. Help me up. What's wrong with you? Lady Niuhuru gave me a bowl of poison. It won't poison the body, only the heart. I will only allow one Lady Ula-Nara in this palace. This is my greatest tolerance. Qingying, you must watch me die. to attest that I wasn't forced to commit suicide. But no one is to be blamed for the grievances over my sudden death. But Aunt, you are distinctly being forced by the Empress Dowager to die. At this moment, we are unable to counter-attack. You must survive. You don't even need to hate. You only need Lady Niuhuru to spare your life. You must make her let you become her aide. You must become the Empress in order to take revenge for me. This is how you can repay me. You are luckier than I. You have already obtained His Majesty's love. Don't ever become an abandoned woman like I am. Qingying, there is already an abandoned woman in this Lady Ula-Nara. There must not be a second abandoned woman again. Aunt. When the late Emperor conferred me as the Empress, that was my most glorious moment. It was an extraordinary honor. My beloved one didn't leave me either. Aunt. Aunt, Aunt. Aunt.
