Da ci ke The Assassin

en
00:02:08 The state of Qin is the strongest
00:02:11 As a small state, we have no other choice
00:02:13 ...than to be subservient to Qin.
00:02:18 Qin is a kingdom of wolves and tigers,
00:02:20 tyranical to it subjects and
00:02:23 If the premier calls for subservience
00:02:25 this official must respectfully disagree.
00:02:27 What do you advocate, official Yen?
00:02:30 The three Jin states were once
00:02:33 only by splitting into Han, Zhao and Yi
00:02:36 ...did they allow Qin to emerge
00:02:38 We should ally with Zhao and Yi
00:02:40 ...as well as the states of Qi and Chu
00:02:42 ...to defend against the fierce Qin
00:02:45 This is all impractical talk.
00:02:47 I fear before our alliance is in place,
00:02:49 the Qin army will be at our border.
00:02:53 But Qin's appetite is insatiable!
00:02:56 Today they demand a city,
00:02:59 how does the Premier propose to handle it?
00:03:01 I am of the House of Han;
00:03:03 would my concern for our state's interests
00:03:05 ...be less than that of a mere official
00:03:08 The King of Qin is a brutal tyrant.
00:03:10 My concern is for the common people
00:03:13 Speaking only of our own kingdom,
00:03:15 with the Premier courting Qin and
00:03:18 I fear in the ages and generations
00:03:21 it may not be My Liege's line
00:03:24 You...
00:03:27 you will sow discord between me
00:03:32 Leave it, uncle. Let him go.
00:03:37 You may go.
00:03:39 Yes, Sire.
00:04:02 Nie Zheng...
00:04:07 I'll be along after I change.
00:04:09 I'll wait for you here.
00:04:24 Second Brother is off to practice
00:04:31 The barbarian dress of the Hu again!
00:04:33 Mother will have words again if she sees.
00:04:35 This style of dress is more convenient.
00:04:42 Zheng, you are going out?
00:04:45 Yes, mother.
00:04:46 Come back soon. Don't cause any trouble!
00:04:49 Yes, mother.
00:04:58 We were used to wearing the
00:05:02 ...and using weapons made of bronze.
00:05:06 Now we wear Hu-style short dress
00:05:09 ...and use swords forged of iron.
00:05:11 It takes getting used to;
00:05:14 but nothing in the world...
00:05:16 can stay the same forever.
00:05:19 The Lords of the Middle Realm daily weaken
00:05:22 ...precisely because they are too
00:05:24 Now the great threat to all
00:05:29 The Qin have the same customs
00:05:32 we wear our large, loose robes,
00:05:34 but they go into battle
00:05:39 Why should we not switch to
00:05:42 which allows more freedom of motion?
00:05:47 Good. Now begin your practice
00:06:49 Mr. Xu, I wouldn't want to trouble you.
00:07:06 You have studied the sword under me
00:07:09 The test held tomorrow
00:07:11 ...will determine your progress.
00:07:13 Go home early and get some rest.
00:07:42 What is this?
00:07:44 I've sewn it for you.
00:08:00 What for?
00:08:01 This cord binds us together.
00:08:10 Why were we born commoners?
00:08:14 Why?
00:08:16 If I were a son of a noble house,
00:08:18 I could marry you this very day.
00:08:21 But I am a handmaiden,
00:08:23 how can I marry a noble?
00:08:29 No, you are the daughter of a noble too.
00:08:34 After we are wedded,
00:08:36 I'll lead the army into battle.
00:08:39 With the ability that I have,
00:08:42 I'm sure to win honor on the battlefield.
00:08:46 Then I'll be given a rank at court
00:08:49 and take charge o state affairs.
00:08:52 I'll overhaul the political system
00:08:54 ...and bring peace to the land.
00:08:56 Everyone will prosper and be happy.
00:08:58 In that case, you're sure to be very busy.
00:09:02 We'll have no time to be together.
00:09:09 But...
00:09:14 I'm just an ordinary commoner.
00:09:18 All my abilities and dreams are nothing!
00:09:25 Then why do you learn the sword
00:09:30 Because... I hope my day will come.
00:09:36 I think it's better to be a commoner.
00:09:39 We don't have to worry about
00:09:43 nor is it up to us to deal with them
00:09:45 We can just live out our days in peace.
00:09:49 But what purpose was I born for, then?
00:09:55 I was born with such a mind
00:09:57 ...and such a body,
00:10:00 only to wither away like any
00:10:16 How many time have we been here?
00:10:22 We've been coming since we were little,
00:10:26 I can't tell how many times.
00:10:28 When do you feel happy?
00:10:37 When we came here to play as children,
00:10:39 we were very happy,
00:10:43 but since growing up
00:10:45 I've never seen real happiness in you.
00:10:50 You think too much.
00:10:52 I think from now on, it's better if
00:10:54 ...you don't study the sword with
00:11:02 This has nothing to do with him.
00:11:06 I'm just fond of thinking too much.
00:11:09 If I don't practice the sword,
00:11:13 I wouldn't know what to do with my time.
00:11:22 It's late. We should be going.
00:11:54 You go home.
00:11:55 Very well.
00:12:02 Xia Ying, I've waited a long time for you.
00:12:08 This pearl has been kept by my family.
00:12:09 What do you think of it?
00:12:15 Spectacular!
00:12:17 I've brought it as a present for you.
00:12:19 I can't accept such a valuable gift!
00:12:21 It's nothing.
00:12:23 I also want you to move out of
00:12:25 ...and live a life of luxury.
00:12:27 Master Xu,
00:12:28 I'm only a serving maid.
00:12:30 I cannot hope to elevate myself with you.
00:12:33 Please let me go.
00:12:35 Xu Shi.
00:12:40 Let her go.
00:12:49 Who are you to step in?
00:12:54 We may be students under the same master,
00:12:56 but we don't have to cross swords here.
00:12:59 True. I'll reckon with you tomorrow.
00:13:12 Now, Nie Zheng versus Xu Shi.
00:14:10 Careful.
00:14:14 Xu Shi.
00:14:20 Our match today...
00:14:22 is meant for practice only.
00:14:24 But right from the very beginning
00:14:26 ...you attacked without first saluting.
00:14:28 That is already beyond the pale.
00:14:30 How can you go so far as to
00:14:32 ...backstab after the outcome
00:14:34 Such dastardly behavior
00:14:36 ...is unacceptable even towards
00:14:38 let alone a fellow student.
00:14:40 Henceforth, you are no longer my disciple.
00:14:53 Nie Zheng.
00:14:58 The Middle Realm has always used
00:15:01 but Wu and Yue forge steel from iron,
00:15:04 ...Kings Fu Ca and Gou Jian to
00:15:10 This sword Shu Lou belonged to
00:15:13 I now make a gift of it to you.
00:15:21 Continue.
00:15:22 Yes, uncle.
00:15:25 I had my suspicions of Wu Ji
00:15:28 so I deliberately joined their ranks
00:15:31 They've brought together many
00:15:34 ...to drill them in swordsmanship.
00:15:39 Guard!
00:15:40 Present.
00:16:27 You say this sword, Shu Lou, was given
00:16:28 ...by King Wu to Wu Zixu to
00:16:32 Why would Master Wu give it to you?
00:16:35 Isn't it a bit inauspicious?
00:16:39 If a man can live his life like
00:16:41 death would not matter.
00:16:43 I don't feel it's inauspicious at all.
00:16:47 My only fear is that unlike Wu Zixu,
00:16:49 I fail to achieve any great deeds
00:16:51 ...and disappoint Master Wu.
00:16:54 Don't think on such things.
00:16:56 Wu Zixu's family served Chu
00:16:59 I only wish that our entire lives
00:17:02 ...can be spent in safety and contentment.
00:17:05 Even if life's a bit hard, I'll wish
00:17:08 I heard what Xu Shi said to you yesterday.
00:17:12 I spent the night thinking;
00:17:14 it doesn't matter if I have to
00:17:17 but I can't ask the same of you as well.
00:17:23 The day will come
00:17:24 ...when I'll have you live in a palace
00:17:28 and spend your days in luxury.
00:17:33 Didn't Wu Zixu leave the kingdom of Chu
00:17:36 ...and create his own future
00:17:46 I don't fancy such things.
00:17:48 I only wish...
00:17:51 it could always be like this night:
00:17:54 Wearing coarse homespun clothes,
00:17:56 lying in the wilderness
00:17:59 ...looking at the stars in heaven.
00:18:05 I pray to heaven above
00:18:07 ...that it could always be like
00:18:39 When did it happen?
00:18:40 I don't know.
00:18:41 I was like this when I arrived
00:19:16 Forward!
00:20:19 Shoot!
00:20:33 Shoot!
00:20:35 Xi Yuan!
00:20:37 Quick...
00:20:38 I'm done for. Save yourselves!
00:20:40 But what about you?
00:20:41 No use dying together. Live to fight
00:20:43 But...
00:20:45 We'll split up.
00:20:46 Let's meet under the bridge
00:20:58 Forward!
00:21:10 Forward!
00:21:26 Xu Shi, you...
00:21:45 Mother, sister, with me!
00:21:46 The troops will be here any moment!
00:21:48 What's happened?
00:21:48 Don't ask!
00:21:49 Gather your valuables and hurry!
00:21:51 I knew this was going to happen.
00:22:13 Xia Ying...
00:22:15 Who is it?
00:22:16 Xia Ying.
00:22:54 Du Po.
00:22:56 Nie Zheng.
00:23:09 Young Master, in putting these rebels
00:23:11 you have done a great service
00:23:12 These rebels all wear barbarian Hu dress
00:23:15 and use keen blades forged from iron.
00:23:17 To let them grow in strength
00:23:18 ...is to court disaster for the kingdom.
00:23:20 I toast you, Young Master.
00:23:23 It was all thanks to my uncle's
00:23:36 The wine is getting to me.
00:23:39 Very well. You've had a tiring day.
00:23:42 Go home and get some rest.
00:23:48 Shall I send an armed escort?
00:23:50 No need, thank you.
00:23:51 I've brought a few guards myself.
00:23:59 the Young Master himself has
00:25:11 You follow behind, I go round the front.
00:26:03 You want to fight two against one?
00:26:09 Du Po, guard the end of the street.
00:26:11 Don't let this scoundrel escape.
00:26:13 There's no need to lend a hand.
00:26:15 Very well.
00:26:20 It was pure luck you won yesterday.
00:26:22 Let's see who's better tonight.
00:26:45 Nie Zheng.
00:26:46 He's playing for time, hoping for rescue.
00:27:00 Out of your own selfish motives,
00:27:02 you caused the deaths of our master
00:27:06 Do you know the taste of fear now?
00:27:23 There is no abiding in this place anymore.
00:27:25 My mother and sister have fled
00:27:28 I'll catch up with them tonight.
00:27:31 I'll go to a relative in the state of Han.
00:27:35 Then this is where we part our ways.
00:27:37 Take care of yourself.
00:27:39 You too. We shall meet again.
00:28:18 Master, did I do the move correctly?
00:28:21 Yes, but it'd be better
00:28:28 Father.
00:28:30 Official Yen.
00:28:31 Master Du.
00:28:33 Zhang's swordsmanship has improved.
00:28:35 Young Master is very talented.
00:28:37 What it took me 3 years to learn
00:28:40 I've totally imparted in only
00:28:43 There is nothing I have left to teach.
00:28:45 Master Wu was the victim of
00:28:48 Among my fellows, only one, Nie Zheng,
00:28:50 has skills greater than my own.
00:28:52 In the aftemath,
00:28:54 If we can get him to come teach
00:28:58 Don't over-praise the child.
00:29:01 My wife died years ago.
00:29:03 I have only one son. I don't want
00:29:06 Books and the sword are to train
00:29:08 I don't wish for him to become
00:29:12 What pleases me though is that
00:29:15 I came to know a fine young man
00:29:18 You are too kind.
00:29:19 In the past year or so
00:29:20 I have been the one to benefit
00:29:23 From what you say,
00:29:25 this Mr Wu Ji is a kind-hearted man.
00:29:29 So many fine young men have been killed;
00:29:32 it is indeed a tragedy.
00:29:35 If the chance should arise,
00:29:36 I would very much like to meet
00:29:39 Nie's courage and skills are
00:29:43 If you're so inclined,
00:29:44 I could go seek him in the state of Qi.
00:29:48 Here I am but a mere official.
00:29:53 His Majesty is still young
00:29:55 although he places his trust in me,
00:29:57 real power is with the Premier, Han Kui.
00:30:08 The Premier's audience with
00:30:10 did something happen?
00:30:12 This child has been poisoned by
00:30:15 He doesn't listen to me anymore.
00:30:18 How so?
00:30:20 I told him all the peers of the realm
00:30:22 ...must eventually be subservient to Qin,
00:30:25 and that we should anticipate events
00:30:28 ...by offering tribute and the area
00:30:31 to direct Qin's attention to Zhao and Yi.
00:30:34 What land we lose,
00:30:39 Don't you think my strategy is a good one?
00:30:44 The Premier's strategies are
00:30:48 But guess how the lad replied?
00:30:50 He said, let's ask Yen Chung-Tzu first.
00:30:55 In your humble servant's view,
00:30:57 it's unwise to allow Yen Chung-Tzu
00:30:59 ...to coninue to influence the king so.
00:31:02 The other day, he even said in court
00:31:05 ...that generations from now
00:31:07 it may not be our liege's line
00:31:13 Indeed!
00:31:23 What do you think of Wang Yue
00:31:25 They have sworn their loyalty
00:31:31 Wang Yue, Tian Qing.
00:31:38 Wang Yue, Tian Qing.
00:31:41 Go pick out a few good men-at-arms
00:31:43 ...and assassinate Yen Chung-Tzu tonight!
00:31:45 Don't leave any of his family alive,
00:31:48 lest the truth comes out.
00:31:50 When it's done, you'll be handsomely
00:31:56 Yes sir!
00:32:28 You are the Premier's men-at-arms.
00:32:30 What are you doing here so late at night?
00:32:32 We have a military decree from
00:32:34 Anyone not of the Yen household, begone!
00:32:37 This affair is no one else's concern.
00:32:39 Han Kui holds the Premier's office,
00:32:41 but sends assassins at night
00:32:44 Such an affair is indeed my concern!
00:32:46 You dare?
00:33:28 Zhang!
00:34:06 Yen Chung-Tzu, there's nowhere
00:34:17 Master Du!
00:34:19 Sir, Han Kui won't allow you to live.
00:34:23 You must leave quickly.
00:34:25 If you want revenge,
00:34:30 Master Du!
00:34:32 Master Du!
00:35:01 If you want revenge, find Nie Zheng in Qi!
00:35:28 This sword, my breastful of hot passion
00:35:34 ...whom have I given them to?
00:36:05 Been drinking again?
00:36:07 Be careful you don't wake mother.
00:36:15 We've been in Qi for over a year now.
00:36:17 You're not used to such work,
00:36:21 I know it's hard on you.
00:36:23 But mother is old;
00:36:27 after that terrible experience
00:36:30 she's aged a great deal.
00:36:33 You must show forbearance.
00:36:36 I understand.
00:36:39 I know you understand.
00:36:41 You just can't help yourself.
00:36:47 Go to sleep, don't drink any more.
00:36:49 You still have to work tomorrow.
00:37:17 What was that noise?
00:37:18 Nothing. A cat knocked over a jar.
00:37:57 To live like this...
00:38:16 Out of the way...
00:38:22 Please have a seat.
00:38:24 Out of the way...
00:38:26 Out of the way...
00:38:48 You haven't paid for that!
00:38:59 Zheng!
00:39:09 Don't get into trouble.
00:39:11 Yes.
00:39:15 That old lady is his mother?
00:39:20 This fellow is indeed a real man!
00:39:22 He is truly filial to his mother.
00:39:24 That's right.
00:39:25 He's always standing up for other people,
00:39:27 butjust one word from his mother
00:39:28 and he'll go back to her obediently.
00:39:33 The old lady called him "Zheng" just now.
00:39:36 Do you know what his surname is?
00:39:37 His surname's Nie.
00:39:39 Nie... Nie Zheng?
00:39:48 Would I be addressing Master Nie?
00:39:51 My name's Nie. Is anything the matter?
00:39:53 May I ask by close of business
00:39:55 how much meat would you have sold?
00:39:59 About his much.
00:40:03 Then my master would buy all of it.
00:40:06 Would this be enough?
00:40:10 Yes. Your master means to...
00:40:12 He means to have Master Nie come
00:40:18 This is my master.
00:40:20 Master Nie, I am Yen Sui.
00:40:21 Please forgive my impertinence.
00:40:26 Yen... Yen Chung-Tzu, Master Yen.
00:40:30 You honor me.
00:40:31 I have not dared to disturb
00:40:34 Would Master Nie accompany me for a chat?
00:40:37 I'll pay my respects to your mother
00:40:41 Very well.
00:40:46 Sister, I'm going out with Master Yen
00:41:37 Master Yen.
00:41:38 Nie Zheng has something he'd like to ask.
00:41:44 Would it be possible...
00:41:51 You may leave.
00:41:53 I'll call if you're needed.
00:41:55 Yes sir.
00:42:03 You stand guard outside.
00:42:06 Don't let anyone enter.
00:42:08 Yes sir.
00:42:13 Master Nie, please speak freely.
00:42:17 Master Yen is an official of a peer;
00:42:20 Nie Zheng is a mere butcher
00:42:22 who makes his living in the streets.
00:42:24 Yet you have traveled all this way to Qi
00:42:28 and not stood on ceremony to meet me.
00:42:30 Why, may I ask, is that?
00:42:32 I have heard back in the state of Han
00:42:35 that your sword and courage have no match,
00:42:39 and that you are a true hero of the age.
00:42:43 If so, I fear you heard wrong.
00:42:48 From what I saw for myself yesterday,
00:42:50 you defended the weak-
00:42:54 with your bare hands,
00:42:56 ...armed opponents - that was brave;
00:43:00 and you stopped at your mother's word -
00:43:02 that was filial piety.
00:43:04 With one who's righteous,
00:43:06 I wouldn't dare claim any privilege
00:43:11 Commoners of the streets
00:43:12 ...have no lack of courage that
00:43:16 or filial piety towards their parents.
00:43:19 I am nothing extraordinary.
00:43:22 Master Nie, why hide behind such humility?
00:43:27 Have you forgotten the hopes and dreams
00:43:29 ...you had as a student under Master Wu?
00:43:40 Those are all things of the past.
00:43:44 I have accomplished nothing.
00:43:47 All I did was cause my aged mother
00:43:49 ...to suffer a fright for nothing.
00:43:52 My only wish now is to know my place
00:43:55 ...and take care of my mother.
00:43:59 I desire nothing else.
00:44:00 But you are still young.
00:44:02 To let all your abilities and passion
00:44:06 ...dwindle away like this,
00:44:15 Master Yen, what would you have me do?
00:44:19 Please come out with it.
00:44:23 Friendship is based on sincerity.
00:44:25 If I say I've traveled all this way
00:44:27 ...only to drink and chat with Master Nie,
00:44:34 I would obviously be lying.
00:44:36 But the matter is one of great import;
00:44:38 it is better to discuss it at length
00:44:42 Today, though, I have a different request.
00:44:46 What is it, Master Yen?
00:44:49 I may have served as an official of Han,
00:44:51 but I too am now a fugitive.
00:44:54 If you do not fear to be associated
00:44:58 I would like us to become bonded
00:45:04 I would not dare to elevate myself so,
00:45:07 but I know that friendship knows
00:45:10 and to accomplish great deeds takes unity;
00:45:14 and so I shall not stand on ceremony.
00:45:15 Indeed you have a hero's spirit!
00:45:19 Here.
00:45:22 Bring what I told you to prepare earlier.
00:45:24 Yes sir.
00:45:45 Please.
00:45:58 Brother.
00:46:02 Mother is asleep?
00:46:07 She knows I went with Yen Chung-Tzu?
00:46:10 Yes. I told her.
00:46:14 What did she say?
00:46:15 She said you shouldn't have gone with him.
00:46:18 For a high official to consort with us
00:46:22 cannot presage anything good.
00:46:24 I realize that.
00:46:27 I know mother's way of thinking.
00:46:29 For Yen Chung-Tzu to condescend
00:46:31 ...and take up with a butcher
00:46:34 must mean he has something to ask of you.
00:46:36 That I realize too.
00:46:39 But what can you possibly offer him?
00:46:41 You have nothing, except...
00:46:44 One man, one life.
00:46:46 Brother, if you realize all this,
00:46:49 then why...?
00:46:49 I've been wondering myself.
00:46:52 Is it better for me to live like this,
00:46:55 toiling so hard and so inconsequentially?
00:46:58 Or is it better to die a glorious death?
00:47:06 Or perhaps, is both life and
00:47:12 But to mother and I,
00:47:15 whether you live or die is not the same.
00:47:20 And there's still Xia Ying. Remember her?
00:47:25 I've not forgotten her for a single day.
00:47:28 At present, I cannot get into trouble.
00:47:31 It would affect mother and you.
00:47:34 But the day will come
00:47:36 ...when I'll be able to cast life
00:47:38 that's when I'll o look for her.
00:47:52 What did that Yen Chung-Tzu say?
00:47:56 He didn't say anything.
00:47:58 He only wanted to be brothers with me.
00:48:01 And did you bond with him?
00:48:05 He wouldn't be at ease with me otherwise.
00:48:11 He said now that he and I are brothers,
00:48:15 my mother is also his mother;
00:48:20 he'll come pay his respects tomorrow.
00:48:22 Brother.
00:48:23 Don't worry. As long as mother's alive
00:48:27 and you remain unmarried,
00:48:29 I won't promise to do anything for him.
00:48:41 I said to Brother Zheng last night,
00:48:43 now that we're brothers,
00:48:45 madam is also a mother to me.
00:48:48 Here is a hundred in gold for you.
00:48:55 Brother, we cannot accept such a gift!
00:48:58 Brother.
00:48:59 The only reason I've descended myself so
00:49:01 ...to work as a mere street butcher
00:49:03 is in order to provide for my mother.
00:49:05 I am fortunate enough to be able to do so;
00:49:08 I would not dare accept such largesse.
00:49:12 Now that we are brothers,
00:49:14 what is mine is also yours.
00:49:18 I have done nothing to deserve this.
00:49:20 You see how bare my our walls are;
00:49:22 with what can I possibly repay you?
00:49:26 All I can repay you with
00:49:28 ...is myself as a person;
00:49:30 this mortal shell is all I have to give.
00:49:33 Brother, don't take it so seriously!
00:49:37 With my mother still living,
00:49:38 I'm yet unable to render up my life.
00:49:41 Please forgive me, brother.
00:49:43 I became brothers with you
00:49:44 ...precisely because I admire
00:49:47 Whatever requests I may have to
00:49:49 ...can wait till more leisurely
00:49:52 there is no hurry.
00:49:55 The gold is for madam.
00:49:58 Please accept it.
00:49:59 Chung-Tzu.
00:50:00 Madam.
00:50:01 He is the only son I have.
00:50:05 If I lose him,
00:50:07 what good would any amount of gold do me?
00:50:11 It's because you know he's a man
00:50:15 ...that you condescended to
00:50:19 Whatever use you have of him
00:50:21 ...does not require you to put it
00:50:23 he'll go to his doom without your asking.
00:50:26 This hundred in gold
00:50:28 ...is really to purchase my son's life.
00:50:32 How can I bear to enjoy its use?
00:50:36 Please hurry and take it away!
00:50:43 Madam's words
00:50:45 ...have shamed me beyond measure.
00:50:50 Take it away!
00:50:51 Yes...
00:50:56 I have bonded with Brother Zheng.
00:51:00 I seek no more than to enjoy this day;
00:51:04 tomorrow I shall depart for Pu Yang.
00:51:11 Zheng.
00:51:13 Drink with Chung-Tzu. I'm going to rest.
00:51:18 Madam.
00:51:44 Brother.
00:51:47 A toast.
00:51:49 May we have occasion to be together again.
00:52:41 A young man requests an audience
00:52:45 Did you ask him his name?
00:52:47 He said his surname was Nie.
00:52:53 Nie Zheng.
00:53:08 Brother.
00:53:09 Brother.
00:53:12 You... Please, sit down.
00:53:23 Brother, it's been several years. You...
00:53:29 Mother passed away last year,
00:53:31 and this year my sister got married.
00:53:35 I have no more attachments now.
00:53:40 I didn't think...
00:53:42 Brother.
00:53:43 Although I never promised you anything,
00:53:46 in my heart I already said yes.
00:53:51 What is it you wanted me to do for you?
00:53:54 You can tell me now.
00:53:57 You came all this way,
00:53:58 how can we rush things like this?
00:54:01 I'll give you a welcoming banquet tonight.
00:54:04 The rest we can talk about later.
00:55:05 Brother, I've had enough wine.
00:55:08 Let us have a quiet talk,
00:55:10 brother to brother.
00:55:15 You all may leave.
00:55:45 Brother, what I've kept hidden for
00:55:49 can now be revealed to you.
00:55:53 Please do, brother.
00:55:55 Qin is the greatest calamity upon
00:55:57 this is something every
00:56:01 I heard when you became
00:56:06 ...it was your ambition to fight Qin, too.
00:56:10 Now to preserve themselves,
00:56:14 do not look to the welfare of
00:56:18 but rather consider subservience to Qin
00:56:21 ...as their means of lingering on.
00:56:23 If this situation continues,
00:56:25 the entire Realm will be destroyed by Qin!
00:56:28 To kill one as an example to many...
00:56:33 You want me to kill the Han Premier,
00:56:37 You've guessed it already.
00:56:41 The circumstances of your departure
00:56:44 ...are not totally unknown to me.
00:56:47 It's public justice,
00:56:52 I had an only son,
00:56:54 and you, a good friend Du Po.
00:56:57 Du Po?
00:56:59 It was from him that I heard of you.
00:57:02 Du Po and my son
00:57:03 ...were both killed by Han Kui's
00:57:07 Then... how do you propose to do it?
00:57:12 Although I'm no longer an official of Han,
00:57:15 I still have much personal wealth.
00:57:17 I propose to spend it all to attract
00:57:21 ...whom you'll train to assassinate
00:57:27 I don't think that would be too prudent.
00:57:30 What is your view?
00:57:34 Your enemy is the Premier of a state
00:57:37 ...as well as the king's uncle.
00:57:40 Pu Yang is not far from
00:57:45 word will leak out if too many
00:57:49 The whole state of Han will then
00:57:53 however much wealth you have,
00:57:55 however many man you put together,
00:57:58 will not be enough against
00:58:02 Then...
00:58:08 This is something only a single man
00:58:12 Like Zhuan Zhu assassinating Wang Liao,
00:58:14 what's required is a single,
00:58:19 With your wits and courage,
00:58:24 I've no doubt Han Kui's death is assured;
00:58:29 but extracting yourself will prove
00:58:35 Zhuan Zhu & Yiu Li sacrificed
00:58:45 It is precisely because of that,
00:58:46 I made you no promises before.
00:58:50 But now my mother's dead,
00:58:55 I am free of all worries.
00:59:00 Brother.
00:59:01 To find someone who knows my heart...
00:59:02 I've been resolved these past few years.
00:59:06 More words would be superfluous.
00:59:10 Let's drink to this evening.
00:59:11 Tomorrow I set off for the kingdom of Han.
00:59:14 Brother, it's as you say:
00:59:17 More words would be superfluous.
00:59:20 But once you are gone
00:59:22 I fear we two may never meet again.
00:59:26 Please stay for a few more days.
00:59:32 I fear...
00:59:33 Don't worry.
00:59:35 This is the land of my ancestors,
00:59:36 and the servants have been here
00:59:39 No one will let out our secret.
00:59:41 Brother, I truly cannot bear...
00:59:45 to be parted with you.
01:00:01 Attendants!
01:00:18 Attend to Master Nie's rest.
01:00:20 Yes sir.
01:00:21 Brother, you are still unmarried.
01:00:26 What do you think of this Concubine Zhao?
01:00:37 Don't make fun of me, brother.
01:02:58 Master Nie, the master has asked me
01:03:00 ...to serve you this wine
01:04:28 You may all leave.
01:04:30 Yes sir.
01:04:37 Concubine Zhao.
01:04:40 Please ask your master to come.
01:04:42 Yes sir.
01:05:21 Brother, I've decided to leave tomorrow.
01:05:25 Brother.
01:05:57 Desolately the west wind rises.
01:06:04 The sun shines forth its promise;
01:06:12 the ruddy visage tells
01:06:20 ...of the Qin battledress;
01:06:27 the ruddy visage tells
01:06:34 ...of the Qin battledress.
01:06:42 Bidding the hero farewell today,
01:06:49 when will the departed return?
01:06:57 Away to the future on parting,
01:07:04 the mountains come into view;
01:07:11 Away to the future on parting,
01:07:18 the mountains come into view.
01:07:39 Brother, I take my leave.
01:07:46 Brother, a toast.
01:08:20 Bidding the hero farewell today,
01:08:29 when will the departed return?
01:08:37 Away to the future on parting,
01:08:45 the mountains come into view.
01:09:23 Is this the Xia residence?
01:09:36 Are you Miss Xia Ying?
01:09:38 Yes.
01:09:39 A gentleman asked us to deliver this.
01:09:41 Here...
01:09:43 Have you made some mistake?
01:09:45 You are Miss Xia Ying, right?
01:09:47 Yes.
01:09:48 Then there's no mistake.
01:10:01 Is this the Xia residence?
01:10:03 That's right.
01:10:03 Then you must be Miss Xia. Come...
01:10:15 A thousand in silver, please count it.
01:10:17 Surely it's some mistake!
01:10:19 There's no mistake.
01:10:19 The gentleman's instructions were
01:10:22 Is Miss Xia at home?
01:10:25 Sorry...
01:10:35 You must be Miss Xia.
01:10:38 This is the best our shop has to offer.
01:10:41 Please see if you like it.
01:10:49 A gentleman told you to deliver this?
01:10:52 That's right.
01:10:53 And who might this gentleman be?
01:10:56 You really know how to joke, Miss.
01:10:58 These are really valuable gifts.
01:11:00 How can you not know who sent them?
01:11:32 Might this be Miss Xia?
01:11:34 What are you delivering this time?
01:11:36 Nothing.
01:11:37 A gentleman requests your presence.
01:11:39 We have a sedan chair waiting.
01:11:41 I'm not going.
01:11:42 Take everything away with you.
01:11:45 The gentleman left instructions that
01:11:46 ...if Miss Xia refuses to come,
01:11:49 there's something we should show you.
01:12:08 Nie Zheng...
01:12:21 Miss Xia, here's the sedan chair.
01:13:40 After you left,
01:13:42 my father died the following year.
01:13:45 Last year Xu Shi's uncle lost his office,
01:13:48 and I thought of going to look for you,
01:13:50 but I didn't know where you were.
01:13:58 What did you do in the kingdom of Qi?
01:14:02 Didn't I tell you during the day?
01:14:04 How can a butcher make so much money?
01:14:07 What else did you do?
01:14:10 I didn't do anything else.
01:14:13 Nie Zheng, don't tell me
01:14:17 I didn't do anything bad.
01:14:20 But doing bad things or doing good things
01:14:24 ...no longer make any difference to me.
01:14:27 Why?
01:14:30 You've waited for me for so many years,
01:14:32 I can't keep it from you any longer.
01:14:34 This is the last time we'll see
01:14:39 Once I'm gone,
01:14:41 I'm never coming back.
01:14:47 You...
01:14:49 You must have married
01:14:58 No. I've undertaken to do something
01:15:03 ...on behalf of someone.
01:15:06 Whether I succeed or fail,
01:15:11 the chances of my survival are slim.
01:15:14 What have you undertaken to do?
01:15:17 Don't worry. It's not anything bad.
01:15:20 All this money;
01:15:23 the person you're doing his for
01:15:30 Then... aren't you selling your life?
01:15:35 You could say that.
01:15:36 If you can give up even your life,
01:15:38 what use have you for money?
01:15:42 Is it for me?
01:15:44 I don't want this money!
01:15:46 This jewellery, these silks...
01:15:50 I'd rather be poor, I'd rather have
01:15:54 How can I possibly take your blood money?
01:15:58 Xia Ying, listen to me.
01:16:01 This thing I do, I do it willingly.
01:16:04 I'm not doing it for money.
01:16:07 When the person first asked me to do this,
01:16:10 he gave me several thousand in gold,
01:16:12 but I didn't accept it.
01:16:15 Now... it doesn't matter.
01:16:19 I'm not long for this world anyway.
01:16:23 If there's money, it should be spent.
01:16:26 How could you do such a thing?
01:16:28 Throwing away your life!
01:16:31 It is a good thing that I do.
01:16:33 Although it's also for personal revenge,
01:16:36 the more important thing is
01:16:38 it's for the good of common folk
01:16:48 Xia Ying. Look at me.
01:16:55 I'm young, tall and strong.
01:17:00 Everyone dies.
01:17:03 Would you rather I die now,
01:17:06 doing a great and glorious deed?
01:17:11 Or would you have me grow old and weak,
01:17:15 too feeble to hold a knife or kill a pig,
01:17:18 and die a stranger stranded
01:17:31 What did your father do when he was young?
01:17:35 He was a carpenter.
01:17:37 And then?
01:17:39 He was too old to continue.
01:17:41 He spent his days befuddled with drink.
01:17:44 I shall be like that one day, Xia Ying.
01:17:49 Let my breastful of hot blood
01:17:51 ...be spilt somewhere worthy of it!
01:18:00 Don't cry.
01:18:02 We don't have many days together.
01:18:05 Let's spend these few days happily.
01:18:12 I'll take you home.
01:18:13 No. Let's go to your place.
01:18:19 We don't have many days together,
01:18:21 do we?
01:19:08 This is something I learned from the rich.
01:19:11 We drink, they play music.
01:19:14 Isn't this fun?
01:19:15 Fun for you, but sorrow for the players.
01:19:19 Sorrow?
01:19:23 Because they have to survive.
01:19:27 Let them go.
01:19:29 Okay, you may leave.
01:19:33 Yes.
01:20:27 My body...
01:20:30 I think you've always wanted it.
01:20:34 I give it to you now.
01:20:37 But I...
01:20:42 I understand now
01:20:44 the longer you live, the more sorrow
01:20:48 Let's live shorter, but happier.
01:20:54 Didn't you say we don't have
01:20:59 In these few short days,
01:21:01 we'll live our lives, our entire lives.
01:21:23 But in the future, you...
01:21:25 We only have the present,
01:21:29 If now you don't...
01:21:32 we'll regret it in the future.
01:21:36 Xia Ying.
01:23:11 You didn't sleep?
01:23:15 I... I have to go.
01:23:19 You're not waiting for daybreak?
01:23:21 I have to go anyway;
01:23:25 what does it matter if it's daybreak
01:23:29 True. You have to go anyway.
01:23:35 Are our lives so short?
01:23:39 These last few days with you
01:23:44 ...have been happier than
01:23:48 Our lives haven't been short at all.
01:24:38 You don't need to see me off.
01:24:56 I'll come with you to the river.
01:24:59 The river...
01:25:03 That expanse of reeds.
01:25:07 We spent a lot of happy times there.
01:25:25 I'm off. You can go find my sister.
01:25:29 She'll take care of you.
01:25:34 The jewellery I left is worth a lot.
01:25:39 Say no more.
01:26:02 The sword Su Lou.
01:26:08 This time...
01:27:49 Out of the way.
01:28:02 Yang Jian.
01:28:04 This is betrayal!
01:28:06 Han Kui, we risked our lives fighting Qin,
01:28:09 my father and brother both fell
01:28:13 yet you would confer with them
01:28:15 ...and cede land to Qin in tribute,
01:28:17 and give away what we fought so hard
01:28:20 Everyone would want to kill a traitor
01:28:24 Affairs of state are beyond your kind.
01:28:27 Lu Pen.
01:28:28 Present.
01:28:30 Premier.
01:28:32 His father and brother are dead,
01:28:33 but his mother and sister-in-law
01:28:35 They do.
01:28:36 Have him killed by the death of
01:28:38 Kill his mother and sister-in-law too.
01:28:42 I fear there may be fellow conspirators.
01:28:43 Be on your guard.
01:28:44 Yes sir!
01:28:45 Execute them before he palace gates.
01:28:50 Mother!
01:28:51 Jian!
01:28:57 Sister-in-law!
01:28:58 Brother!
01:29:01 I've dragged you into this!
01:29:05 Jian!
01:29:17 This is too despicable!
01:29:18 Yang Jian may have attempted
01:29:20 but why execute his womenfolk as well?
01:29:35 Come again...
01:29:41 Sir.
01:29:47 Have you a good room?
01:29:48 Yes... please.
01:30:03 Would this room suffice?
01:30:07 Please look inside.
01:30:15 This is our best room.
01:30:19 Please.
01:30:37 What's happening outside?
01:30:39 At the Premier's holding a conference
01:30:41 at Dong Meng to make peace with Qin,
01:30:43 but a minor officer tried to
01:30:45 got caught, and was executed.
01:30:49 May I ask where sir is from?
01:30:51 What proof do you have?
01:30:54 Well?
01:30:56 Premier's orders.
01:31:01 Do I look like an assassin?
01:31:03 No...
01:31:05 Assassins are all desperate men,
01:31:07 like that poor kid executed just now.
01:31:09 Butjust look at a gentleman such as sir -
01:31:10 you're obviously a high-born nobleman!
01:31:13 How can you possibly be an assassin?
01:31:16 I am Gongsun from the kingdom of Qin
01:31:18 ...on secret business here.
01:31:21 I may even have to meet with your Premier.
01:31:25 I do indeed have proof,
01:31:28 but it's not meet for me to show it
01:31:29 Your humble servant would not presume!
01:31:32 Prepare some food and wine for me.
01:31:34 Top quality only!
01:31:35 Yes sir...
01:31:37 Have you any musicians and courtesans?
01:31:40 Yes, we do...
01:31:41 Bring me a group of the best.
01:31:43 If you please me, you'll be rewarded.
01:31:46 Yes sir...
01:32:34 General.
01:32:36 Are there any suspicious people about?
01:32:37 No...
01:32:38 We conduct our business with great care.
01:32:40 We never accept people of
01:32:52 Who has taken this room?
01:32:53 A Master Gongsun from the kingdom of Qin.
01:32:56 From the kingdom of Qin?
01:32:59 General Lu has always been good to me.
01:33:01 Whatever I see I'm sure to report it
01:33:04 This man's a big spender,
01:33:07 From what he says,
01:33:08 he's on some secret mission for Qin,
01:33:10 and is here to observe the situation.
01:33:17 What's the matter?
01:33:18 Master Gongsun, this is General Lu.
01:33:27 With our imminent Dong Meng conference
01:33:29 ...we are worried men of ill-will
01:33:30 may intrude on our guests from your land;
01:33:32 thus our Premier has ordered my vigilance.
01:33:37 I heard there's a warrior Lu Pen
01:33:41 ...of extraordinary prowess;
01:33:44 You're too kind.
01:33:48 Perhaps we'll meet again
01:33:59 From this man's demeanor,
01:34:01 your guess just now that he's a
01:34:03 ...is undoubtedly correct.
01:34:05 The Premier desires god relations
01:34:08 You must serve this gentleman well.
01:34:10 I will, General. You can count on me.
01:35:06 Hold on.
01:35:18 Sister Nie Rong!
01:35:19 Xia Ying!
01:35:24 I bear Nie Zheng's child.
01:35:40 I thought of looking for you in Qi.
01:35:43 I didn't think you'd come...
01:35:47 When Nie Zheng left so suddenly,
01:35:51 even though he kept it from me,
01:35:54 I could still guess where he was headed.
01:35:58 You know where he's headed?
01:36:01 He didn't tell you?
01:36:04 No.
01:36:06 I only know there's something
01:36:12 from which he's not coming back.
01:36:14 Then why did you let him go?
01:36:16 I know that all his life
01:36:17 ...he's wanted to achieve something,
01:36:19 something great and glorious.
01:36:23 If I don't let him go,
01:36:25 he'll be unhappy for the rest of his life.
01:36:29 Sister, do you understand?
01:36:37 I understand.
01:36:45 Sister, you know what he's going to do?
01:36:51 Since that year when Yen Chung-Tzu came
01:36:56 ...and bonded with him as brothers,
01:36:59 even though he refused the
01:37:03 for the sake of mother and myself,
01:37:07 I've known that his heart was already
01:37:21 Yen Chung-Tzu is an official of state,
01:37:24 a noble man revered everywhere.
01:37:27 For him to take up with an
01:37:31 anyone would be moved beyond words,
01:37:35 let alone someone like Nie Zheng.
01:37:38 As soon as mother died and I was married,
01:37:42 he left without saying goodbye,
01:37:44 and I knew what he was up to.
01:37:49 I wanted to go after him.
01:37:51 Although I knew I may fail to catch up,
01:37:57 I still came, just in case I could
01:38:00 He... he's gone to...
01:38:03 assassinate Premier Han Kui for
01:38:19 Once the emissaries from Qin arrive,
01:38:21 whatever they do,
01:38:22 we mustn't disgrace ourselves before them.
01:38:25 Your Majesty, you must forbear.
01:38:40 I want to see Premier Han.
01:38:56 Master Gongsun.
01:38:58 Our Majesty has gifts for the Premier.
01:39:02 Would the General be so kind as to
01:39:04 Please.
01:39:17 Premier, one Qin emissary has arrived.
01:39:20 He's brought gifts to you from
01:39:29 This is Master Gongsun from
01:39:37 I am overwhelmed by
01:39:42 From Our Majesty to the Premier.
01:39:52 Assassin!
01:40:26 After him!
01:41:01 Close the door!
01:41:01 Yes sir!
01:41:33 The Premier and the assassin are inside!
01:41:35 Get something to ram it!
01:41:37 Yes sir!
01:41:38 This man's too skilful. Call for archers!
01:41:41 Yes sir!
01:43:02 Surround the assassin. Take him!
01:43:03 Take him!
01:43:04 Yes sir!
01:43:15 Premier...
01:43:47 Take him alive!
01:43:47 Yes...
01:43:48 Find out who he is!
01:43:49 After him...
01:44:30 Surround him...
01:44:39 The assassin's committed suicide. Get him!
01:45:38 His intestines are all hanging out!
01:46:03 "Reward
01:46:05 Assassinated the Premier.
01:46:06 Any information regarding his name
01:46:08 leading to the instigator:
01:46:49 This is one tough assassin.
01:46:51 I hear he cut open his own belly
01:46:53 ...and pulled out all his intestines!
01:46:55 And cut his face and took out
01:46:58 in case someone could recognize the body
01:46:59 and bring disaster to his family.
01:47:48 Sister, how can you still do this?
01:47:52 How can you bear it?
01:47:57 As soon as day breaks, you leave.
01:48:00 Leave the kingdom of Han as fast as
01:48:03 What about you?
01:48:08 I'm going to claim the body.
01:48:09 Claim the body? But isn't that too...
01:48:15 You said Nie Zheng wanted to
01:48:23 He's achieved it now,
01:48:27 and achieved it most gloriously.
01:48:34 He could have had his name
01:48:41 But out of fear for us, he killed himself.
01:48:46 It was such a terrible way to die!
01:48:50 How can I bear to cling on to life
01:48:55 and let his heroic deed be buried
01:48:58 Then... then I should go.
01:49:06 No. You are with child.
01:49:10 You have to preserve the bloodline
01:49:11 ...of our family of Nie.
01:49:51 What business do you have?
01:49:52 I come to claim the body.
01:50:10 You know who he was?
01:50:13 His name was Nie Zheng,
01:50:15 from Zhi county in the kingdom of Yi.
01:50:18 For the crime of colluding with
01:50:21 he assassinated the Premier Han Kui.
01:50:23 What's your relationship with him?
01:50:28 I am his sister.
01:50:29 Men!
01:50:30 Yes sir.
01:50:30 Take her.
01:50:31 Yes sir.
01:50:41 Don't look.
01:50:42 Out of the way...
01:50:44 Don't look...
01:50:45 Out of the way...