Master, Yuan Bao is on his way.
Grand Secretary Heshen, don't do any1hing rash. It's a trap.
His Majesty tortured Helin in public just to provoke you.
Don't give him excuses to catch you.
I know what His Majesty is thinking.
What? His Majesty did that?
Yes.
Prince Yonglin was ordered to guard Helin and catch you if you attempt to save him.
Otherwise, someone disguised as you will raid the prison to incriminate you.
Apparently His Majesty is at his wit's end. It's such a low-down trick.
His Majesty pays so much regard to me. I must stand firm to the end.
He goes his own way and I'll go mine.
I knew His Majesty would send someone to free Helin as a frame-up,
so I must strike first.
I guess I worry too much.
Day 13 of the Lunar New Year
Someone will be disguised as Helin to lure Heshen into action.
Then you can catch him red-handed.
Xianfu Palace
Greetings, Your Majesty.
Rise.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Heshen, you successfully instigated tens of high-ranking officials
and Censor-in-chief of the Censorate to impeach me overnight.
I honestly don't know anything. I have no idea why they did that.
Niuhulu Helin was a trusted official with many military merits.
In the absence of incriminating evidence, he was shackled and humiliated in public.
Such disrespect for the law can lead to distrust.
Please rethink, Your Majesty.
Ministers remonstrate with the emperor.
They must feel obligated to keep you away from deception.
Leaving the guilty unpunished is disrespect for the law.
Helin deserves to be punished for showing discourtesy.
Despite his discourtesy, his merits should not be obliterated.
His Late Majesty bestowed the three-eyed peacock feather on him
to reward his distinguished contribution to our military victories.
Your Majesty, don't be deceived by the evil ones.
You and Helin are the evil ones.
Your acts of collusion and corruption have aroused public hatred over the years,
which is the reason why Helin was assassinated.
Helin was assassinated? Is he all right?
The arrow went through his heart, but he survived.
Was the assassin caught?
With adequate information, it's just a matter of time.
Helin had a lucky escape. Please permit me to visit him.
I put Helin in a hideout to keep him from harm.
No visitor is allowed.
But I know you miss your brother dearly, so I have prepared something for you.
Xiaodezi.
Your Honor.
Heshen, those who serve the Great Qing with loyalty will be treated with respect.
However, cliques and corruption will never be tolerated,
and must be handled impartially despite all achievements.
Heshen's Mansion
Master...
How did it go?
Did you see Master Helin?
His Majesty brutally tortured him and wouldn't let us see him.
Grand Secretary Su was sentenced to death.
We cannot inquire from Minister of Justice.
Madam Mei, any ideas?
His Majesty must be hiding Helin. Let me think.
Helin is a tough man. He will be all right.
His Majesty is provoking you. Don't fall into his trap.
Shut up, Fuchang'an! It's easy for you to say!
What would you do if it were your deceased brother?
I know how it feels when you lose your brother.
Please turn your sorrow into strength.
Enough! I don't want to hear it!
Don't bother, Your Honor. If we need your help, we will let you know.
Yuan Bao, see our guest out.
Yes.
Good bye.
Money can do anything. Offer a reward for information on Helin's whereabouts.
His Majesty must have foreseen it and set an information trap.
I heard Shen Chu was injured. Perhaps Doukou got the evidence.
Doukou is our only hope. I will inquire into Helin's whereabouts.
There is one thing I need you to do.
Sure.
Retreat to your hometown in Jiangnan for the time being.
Yuan Bao will have everything ready.
But why?
Once you settle down, take Qinglian and Nalan with you.
After I rescue Helin and sort His Majesty out,
I will pick you up immediately.
No, let me stay here with you.
You will only be my burden.
I can't risk losing you. Keep yourself safe at home.
In case anything happens to me,
stay in Jiangnan and take care of our family.
I will back you up. Don't you worry.
You'll be leaving in about four hours. Please get ready.
Madam Mei should understand your worries.
Uncle Quan, I entrust my wife to your care.
Yes.
Let's sit down for a cup of tea.
Aye...
Waiter, bring us tea.
Yes.
Your hand still hurts. Let me do it.
I'm fine.
Let's have some tea and continue on our way.
Yes...
Commander Qi.
Greetings, Prince Yonglin.
Thank you for your help.
I failed to protect Honourable Shen.
It was an unfortunate loss,
but if you make it to the palace safe, the mistake can be forgiven.
We should get going.
Knockout drops?
Protect Commander Qi!
Let's go!
Let them go. The evidence is more important.
Yes, Highness.
Go...
Forget it. We're outnumbered, not to mention your injury.
We won't stand a chance.
If they make it to the capital, Helin will die!
Xiaoyao House
Grand Secretary Heshen, what's the urgency?
There is something I should tell you.
Dieyi, tell His Highness what you heard about the Mongol tribes.
According to our sources in Mongolia, the Khalkha has been looting the tribes.
Since the Khalkha is a vassal, the tribes have a strong resentment against you.
Is that so?
Every word I say is true.
I heard the tribes will hold a re-election when you're not around.
Do you have a plan in mind?
I was going to ask you the same question.
You didn't tell me the news because you cared about Mongolia.
There is something else you want.
Then let me get straight to the point. I'd like to help you settle this matter.
Money can buy bravery and faith.
Bribe the various tribal heads to fortify your position.
That's very generous of you. I suppose it's no easy task.
His Highness is a smart young man.
I hope you can save Helin.
The Mongols are strong-willed.
Treasures can move mountains but not our hearts.
Saving Helin is like revolting against His Majesty.
Why would I do that?
All you have to do is
have your army on standby at 15:00 today on the outskirts of the capital.
After my men rescue Helin, your army will provide protection.
There is no need to reveal yourself.
If Noble Consort Ying finds out, I won't be able to explain myself.
Don't worry, I will make sure it won't hurt your relationship with Her Highness.
This deal shall make us blood brothers.
Yes, absolutely.
Cheers!
Master Liu.
Dieyi.
This is for you.
Honourable Heshen is still in the meeting.
Would you like to join me in my room? I have prepared your favorite dishes.
No, Master may call me in. Work is more important.
Shoukang Palace
Here comes His Majesty.
Greetings, Your Majesty.
Greetings, Your Highness.
Greetings, Lady Ying.
Rise.
I was planning to visit you after greeting Lady Ying, but here you are.
Lady Xian is expecting her first child and having difficulty sleeping.
So I invited her over for a talk to loosen her up.
I heard it from the physician too.
I brought Akoya pearls.
Grind them into powder and mix it with water.
It can help you relax and sleep.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
His Majesty has given you the Jade phoenix hairpin and Akoya pearls.
You are very much loved.
I finally understand what it means to have a son.
My little prince, your father will love you very much.
How do you know you're having a boy?
My shamanic divination result indicates that I'm having a boy.
Congratulations, Your Majesty and Qing'er.
Mianning has always wanted a brother. His wish has finally come true.
You will get rewarded for giving birth to a boy.
You are blessed by Heaven...
Qing'er.
Are you all right?
I've been having pain in shoulders, arms and legs.
I thought it was a damp-cold symptom,
until I found out I was pregnant yesterday.
The physician diagnosed me with vascular impairment and poor circulation.
Pregnancy is never easy. Did the physician prescribe you anything?
Yes, but strong medications should be avoided during pregnancy.
The prescription is not very effective.
You can only use massage to relieve pain.
Highness, I will learn how to ease your pain.
You are just a maidservant. What if you accidentally hurt the baby?
I heard Her Royal Highness gives the best massage,
but I'm in no position to try it.
Ling'er is the utmost authority in the imperial harem.
I know. I dare not overstep her
authority, but this is for the baby's sake.
With the help of the most highly esteemed, the baby will be healthy and joyful.
A relaxed mind promotes blood circulation. The pain will go away naturally.
But...
Qing'er is carrying your baby. I'd be glad to help her.
Ling'er.
Swelling in the hands and fingers indicates an obstructed circulation.
I'll see what I can do.
Thank you, but please be gentle or you'll hurt the baby.
Don't worry, I'll be careful.
Qing'er was being overbearing because of the baby.
You shouldn't pamper her.
As a woman, I know what it feels like to be pregnant.
I only did it for the baby.
You are the utmost authority in the imperial harem.
I'm afraid it will hurt your prestige. How can you show your authority?
If she sets an example for others, it will have dire consequences.
Please forgive my thoughtlessness.
Qing'er will only ask for more. Don't let her get carried away.
Xiaodezi, select a few maidservants to learn massage at the Academy
and put them on standby in Zhongcui Palace.
Aye.
Also, if Consort Xian requests me to visit her,
simply decline it and need not report back.
Aye.
Don't go soft on her anymore.
Yes, Your Majesty.
But there is one thing I don't understand. You always keep aloof from strife,
yet you fought with Qing'er over a bracelet yesterday.
I don't think you care about the worth of the bracelet. So why?
I was fascinated by the bracelet, and so was Qing'er.
I didn't mean to fight with her or cause any disruption.
Forgive me, Your Majesty.
I see. Qing'er may be overbearing, but she's pregnant after all.
What would you think if I gave her the bracelet?
I only have eyes for that bracelet. Can I ask you to give it to me?
I will make a decision after the bracelet is repaired.
Sure.
Liang Goong Goong, what do you think of this?
Aged Shaoxing wine. Smells good.
But our country is in mourning. I might end up in Judicial Bureau.
What brings you here? Is there something you need?
Have you heard that Royal Noble Consort and Consort Xian
fought over a cat's eye stone bracelet?
Gossip spreads fast in the harem. Why?
Did De Goong Goong ask about the bracelet?
No. What's so special about the bracelet?
You are a man of knowledge. Do you know the history of the bracelet?
It was a birthday gift to His Late Majesty from Persia.
His Late Majesty gave it to an official.
Who?
It was a long time ago. I don't remember.
How did it end up in His Late Majesty's possession?
I have no idea.
It must be on record. Just look through the archives to find out.
Why are you interested in the bracelet?
It's important to know how to please your master.
Royal Noble Consort fancies the bracelet. This is my chance to shine.
Well, just this once.
Thank you. Don't tell anyone I came.
Of course.
De Goong Goong, Qiuyue came.
I know.
So I did what you said. She looked through the archives and left.
Heshen told me to mass my army on the outskirts at 15:00 today.
He asked you to plot a rebellion. It's like asking you to kill yourself.
Of course I know, but Heshen must go his own way.
I pretended to agree with him, but no arrangement will be made.
If Heshen manages to escape, I'll explain to him later.
Without Helin, not only is Heshen losing his anchor but also his mind.
His rashness will only lead to self-destruction.
It's best if we stand aloof from his struggle with His Majesty
and take advantage of it.
His Majesty has a good chance of winning. It's hard to predict what will happen.
It might affect the relationship between Mongolia and the Qing.
Heshen is a man of wealth and influence.
It would be a shame to lose him, but you still have me.
Just go ahead with our plan.
If you help Yonglin ascend the throne, no one can ever jeopardize your position.
Unless you don't trust me.
It never crossed my mind. My people are counting on you.
Heshen and Helin are outsiders. I don't care if they live or die.
Stop!
You finally woke up.
Did you get the letter?
Prince Yonglin took it.
If they make it back, Helin will die!
Why didn't you stop them?
Why did you knock me out? Why didn't you listen to me?
Even if we fought them together, we would only be killed.
It'd be worse if they caught you and used you to threaten Honourable Heshen.
Don't you worry.
Although we lost the evidence, he must have a backup plan.
He would do anything for his brother!
I'm scared he might sacrifice himself! Don't you understand?
I have finished packing.
His Majesty got the evidence, didn't he?
Don't worry, my dear.
I have a backup plan. Uncle Quan will escort you.
We stick together through thick and thin. How can I leave you in the lurch?
Please let me stay here and help you.
You are my dearest. Your presence will distract me.
I already have a backup plan. You can leave without worries.
Not unless you tell me the whole plan.
I'm not going anywhere unless you tell me.
You...
I was informed that Helin was imprisoned in Court of Judicial Review.
Fuchang'an was commanded to meet His Majesty in Ziguang Pavilion at 15:00.
Xianfu Palace
Just as you expected,
Qiuyue went to ask Liang Goong Goong about the origin of the bracelet.
I knew it was no ordinary bracelet.
I have given you so many chances. Why can't you be honest with me?
The more you hide, the more I want to know the truth.
Xiaodezi, continue investigating and keep it secret.
Aye.
The rescue is our top priority. You should be helping Heshen.
Master repeatedly urged me to protect you along the way.
You are just as important as Master Helin.
Perhaps he knew the risks and didn't want to implicate you.
He asked you to escort me just to keep you safe.
There is nothing I haven't been through over the decades.
Stop thinking too much, Madam Mei. There is a solution to every problem.
He asked you to leave because he cared, not because he doubted your ability.
An ordinary woman couldn't have become his wife.
I have no hard feelings whatsoever.
So, did he tell you his plans after the raid?
No, but he always thinks things through. You don't have to worry.
How can I not worry? There's no one he can trust now.
Well...
At this point, there's really nothing we can do.
We're under attack!
Mudan, protect Madam Mei! Hurry!
Madam Mei!
Run!
Mudan, give this letter to Fuchang'an.
I will. Please be careful, Madam Mei.
Portraits are hanged in Ziguang Pavilion in honor of meritorious officials.
Fuchang'an, I have fulfilled my promise to you.
Your portrait was placed next to your father and brother's
to honor the three of you.
Thank you, Your Majesty. I shall repay your kindness with loyalty.
Loyalty is deep from the heart.
If you can prove your loyalty to me, then I will treat you right.
Aye.
Rise.
Thank you, Your Majesty.
The three of you are simply unparalleled.
In terms of merits and achievements, I'm no match for my father and brother,
especially my brother.
In the battle of Jinchuan, my brother led an army of 800
into the enemy's camp on a rainy night and earned a victory.
When he served as Viceroy of Shaan-Gan, the Hui staged a rebellion.
Great talents often die young.
The death of Fukang'an was a great loss to the country.
If my brother hadn't drowned in a river, the two of us would be
serving the country together and making valuable contributions.
Your brother's death was very unfortunate,
but at least you're carrying out his dying wish to serve me.
He should be able to rest in peace.
You murderer, hypocrite.
Say whatever you want in front of my brother today.
One day I will kill you to avenge my brother.
Father, Brother, please give me strength to cut this sly dog to pieces.
Heaven helped me catch Helin.
Once the evidence arrives, I will execute him immediately.
Heaven is always by your side.
Without Helin, Heshen's supporting forces will break down.
It will be much easier to destroy Heshen.
Marvelous, Your Majesty.
Master, there has been an explosion in the palace.
We heard it here, loud and clear. It must have taken His Majesty by surprise.
Ziguang Pavilion has been sealed off. Servants are in a panic.
Prince Yonglin has been commanded to rush back immediately.
Congratulations, Master. Master Helin will pull through.
It's too soon to tell.
I never meant to hurt the tiger, but the tiger wouldn't leave me alone.
Your Majesty, you left me no choice.
Tell everyone to gather at Chongwen Gate for backup!
Yes...
Catch the traitor!
I was wronged, Your Majesty!
My heart remains loyal to you! I didn't plot the assassination!
I urge you to use your best judgment!
Stop denying it.
Gunpowder was found in Ziguang Pavilion. You attempted to kill His Majesty.
Your Majesty, I was informed of an assassination plot in Ziguang Pavilion.
I searched the place and found gunpowder. Please make a decision.
Heshen, how dare you try to kill me!
I looked through the records and found out
Fuchang'an's portrait will be hanged in Ziguang Pavilion at 15:00 today.
Both you and Fuchang'an will be there.
Allow me to interrogate the people in Ziguang Pavilion.
Once they confess, we can catch Heshen and Fuchang'an.
No, it's not a wise move. I shall use their own scheme against them.
I ordered Fengshen-Yinde to replace the gunpowder
with a special firecracker powder.
It can cause a loud explosion without killing anyone.
I returned to Ziguang Pavilion on time.
Just as expected, an intruder came to ignite the gunpowder.
What's going on outside?
Your Majesty, the culprit has been caught.
Everyone thought the explosion was for real and came to put out the fire.
Others remain inside as planned and spread the news of the explosion.
Good.
Heshen must think I was blown to pieces and his plan succeeded.
I bet he's on his way to the prison.
Fuchang'an, you colluded with Heshen to set a trap for me!
Do you know I can execute your whole family?
I had no idea about the explosion! I wouldn't dare do that,
nor would I be foolish enough to come near Ziguang Pavilion!
Please rethink, Your Majesty!
After your return, you secretly met with Heshen.
What do you have to say for yourself?
I purposely befriended Heshen
to help you gather information and evidence against him!
He must have seen my intentions and thus tried to kill me!
You're indecisive and change your mind frequently!
I tested you because I don't trust you! How can I trust you?
The Fucha has enjoyed a prominent status through the years.
Why would I betray you for a traitor on his last legs?
Cut the nonsense! You think you can fool me?
Heaven knows my loyal heart!
If you still don't trust me, please kill me and end it all!
I will offer my life in exchange for your trust!
Fuchang'an, I will spare your life for now!
If you ever break faith with me, you will end up like that portrait!
To repay your glorious grace, I will devote my life to serve you!
Get out!
Thank you, Your Majesty!
Have Fengshen-Yinde and Zhu Gui set off yet?
His Highness and General Zhu are on their way to the prison.
Bring Helin to the palace. Once Qi Jin arrives, he's a dead man.
If all goes well, Heshen's days are numbered.
It will be impossible to turn things around.
How could you, Heshen?
You attempted to kill His Majesty and sacrifice my life to save Helin.
His Majesty doesn't trust me anymore. I'm caught in the middle.
I won't be waiting around to die. From now on, I'm on my own.
I must find a way to kill Jiaqing. Brother, wish me luck.
Master...
What happened, my dear?
Where is Uncle Quan?
We were attacked by an unknown gang.
Uncle Quan risked his life to save me. I wouldn't have made it otherwise.
But I couldn't find them anywhere.
Come and sit down.
Normally bandits wouldn't go that far.
They were skilled in combat and no ordinary crowd.
They didn't take anything valuable. Apparently we were their targets.
Who would dare challenge Master's authority and hurt anyone in this family?
Say no more. Nalan, find Chang Mei a physician.
Contact Viper Sect to conduct a search. We must find Uncle Quan at all costs.
Yes, Master.
Set out to Jiangnan as scheduled. No time to waste.
Yes, Master...
Chang Mei, stay home and rest.
Don't go...
Are you all right?
Don't go.
His Majesty sent assassins after me as a declaration of war.
They must be well-prepared. You will only get yourself killed.
Helin's life is more important than mine.
Fengshen-Yinde, hurry off to the prison with Zhu Gui.
No one is allowed to go near Helin.
Disobedience of orders shall be punished with death.
Why? Why didn't you wait for me? Why didn't you wait for me to rescue you?
I didn't want to implicate you.
I confessed to everything and cleared your name.
That sly dog can't incriminate you.
Why did you do that? His Majesty wants me dead.
Even if you die, he still won't leave me alone.
If I die, he can't use me to threaten you.
You can do whatever you need to do.
We stay together no matter what happens, for better or for worse.
Why are you leaving me behind?
There is a price to pay for success. Sacrifice is necessary.
Don't let that sly dog use me.
Helin...
I managed to eat black-bone chicken and see you one last time.
I couldn't be more grateful.
You were born to succeed.
Finally I can be of some help. I have no regrets.
Helin! Helin, please don't die on me!
What am I supposed to do without you?
Helin...
Helin, you didn't die for nothing.
I will bury the schemer with you to avenge your death.
Please don't do anything rash.
Brother Heshen!
One of these coffins is for Helin, and the other one is for you!
I don't understand!
You killed Helin!
Peacock feathers for decorating
official headwear during the Qing dynasty
were classified into single-eyed,
double-eyed, and three-eyed.
The higher the number,
the greater the merit.
By the end of the Qing dynasty,
the three-eyed peacock feather
had been bestowed on seven officials
including Fu Heng, Fukang'an, Helin,
Changling, Xi'en, Li Hongzhang, and Xu Tong.