1 00:00:01,000 --> 00:00:03,920 WRITTEN BY HYUGA NATSU 2 00:01:33,885 --> 00:01:35,595 THIS STORY IS A FICTION AND ALL NAMES OF FIGURES AND ORGANIZATIONS ARE FICTITIOUS. 3 00:01:35,678 --> 00:01:37,305 MOREOVER, THE STORY HAS NO RELATION TO REAL-LIFE INCIDENTS AND EVENTS. 4 00:01:45,939 --> 00:01:46,773 Mother. 5 00:01:58,910 --> 00:02:02,163 Why did Mother have that expression? 6 00:02:05,500 --> 00:02:07,752 Return to your room. 7 00:02:14,259 --> 00:02:16,052 That old man… 8 00:02:16,636 --> 00:02:17,971 That old woman… 9 00:02:18,763 --> 00:02:19,973 Who were they? 10 00:02:25,061 --> 00:02:27,063 I can't remember clearly. 11 00:02:38,199 --> 00:02:39,784 What a terrible dream. 12 00:02:47,959 --> 00:02:50,712 Who were those old people? 13 00:02:50,795 --> 00:02:53,006 At that time, I had no way of knowing. 14 00:02:53,089 --> 00:02:54,465 But later, I was told. 15 00:02:55,091 --> 00:02:58,011 The old man was my father, and the old woman was my grandmother. 16 00:02:58,595 --> 00:02:59,512 And… 17 00:03:00,096 --> 00:03:02,724 The man I had always thought was my father, 18 00:03:02,807 --> 00:03:04,017 turned out to be my brother. 19 00:03:08,813 --> 00:03:11,107 Even that slow-witted palace woman 20 00:03:11,190 --> 00:03:12,650 should be realizing it by now. 21 00:03:13,818 --> 00:03:15,069 Or perhaps she already has. 22 00:03:16,321 --> 00:03:18,573 If so, that would be a relief. 23 00:03:18,656 --> 00:03:21,618 I can't stay silent forever. 24 00:03:29,709 --> 00:03:31,920 "Once upon a time, in this land, 25 00:03:32,003 --> 00:03:34,172 another people lived here. 26 00:03:34,672 --> 00:03:37,508 They had no ruler. 27 00:03:37,592 --> 00:03:41,179 But one day, a noble woman from a distant land arrived, 28 00:03:41,262 --> 00:03:44,015 carrying within her womb a child of the heavens. 29 00:03:44,849 --> 00:03:48,144 That child became the first emperor of the Country of Li. 30 00:03:48,770 --> 00:03:52,065 The woman, who could see even on moonless nights, 31 00:03:52,148 --> 00:03:53,942 came to be called the Wang Mu. 32 00:03:54,025 --> 00:03:57,946 She was even said to be an immortal who had descended from the celestial realm." 33 00:03:58,655 --> 00:04:01,449 A founding legend of this country, huh? 34 00:04:01,532 --> 00:04:03,076 What do you think, Apothecary? 35 00:04:03,159 --> 00:04:05,578 Lord Jinshi, your face can be seen. 36 00:04:07,205 --> 00:04:09,374 I'm diligently studying here, and yet, 37 00:04:09,457 --> 00:04:13,086 if such a creature is peeking in, how can I concentrate? 38 00:04:13,169 --> 00:04:14,837 Are there about 20 students? 39 00:04:15,880 --> 00:04:18,383 I thought there would be more… 40 00:04:18,466 --> 00:04:21,344 It started with just ten, so it has grown. 41 00:04:21,427 --> 00:04:25,098 Well, this is about right. That said… 42 00:04:25,890 --> 00:04:28,309 If Lord Jinshi's plan succeeds, 43 00:04:28,393 --> 00:04:30,520 and the literacy rate of the maids improves, 44 00:04:30,603 --> 00:04:32,939 It could change the very nature of the rear palace. 45 00:04:33,564 --> 00:04:34,983 In fact, Xiaolan has now 46 00:04:35,066 --> 00:04:39,153 progressed to the stage where she can read simple stories. 47 00:04:39,237 --> 00:04:42,407 -My lord, it’s about time. -Yes. 48 00:04:43,366 --> 00:04:44,867 What about you? 49 00:04:44,951 --> 00:04:47,787 I'll stay and observe a little longer. 50 00:04:47,870 --> 00:04:51,291 I see. If anything catches your attention, report it to me. 51 00:04:51,374 --> 00:04:52,583 Understood. 52 00:04:54,085 --> 00:04:55,294 Xiaolan. 53 00:04:56,879 --> 00:04:58,256 Maomao, you came? 54 00:04:58,840 --> 00:05:01,301 How is it? Have you learned some characters? 55 00:05:02,427 --> 00:05:04,178 I still have a lot to learn. 56 00:05:04,262 --> 00:05:06,222 I need to ask the teacher something again. 57 00:05:06,306 --> 00:05:08,016 -Maomao, come with me. -Oh… 58 00:05:08,599 --> 00:05:10,852 The teacher is in the building next door. 59 00:05:10,935 --> 00:05:12,937 I go there sometimes to ask questions. 60 00:05:14,480 --> 00:05:16,566 An old shrine? 61 00:05:16,649 --> 00:05:18,276 Excuse me. 62 00:05:18,359 --> 00:05:20,903 -Sorry to interrupt. -Coming. 63 00:05:21,696 --> 00:05:24,615 That young lady over there is a new face, isn't she? 64 00:05:32,165 --> 00:05:35,793 A strangely long and narrow structure that seems to stretch deep inside. 65 00:05:36,627 --> 00:05:38,463 The pillars are placed closely together. 66 00:05:38,546 --> 00:05:41,215 The rooms must be divided into very small sections. 67 00:05:42,633 --> 00:05:44,343 Are you curious about that shrine? 68 00:05:44,927 --> 00:05:49,057 Yes, I found its architecture rather unusual. 69 00:05:49,140 --> 00:05:51,392 That shrine was built by the people 70 00:05:51,476 --> 00:05:53,519 who originally lived in this land. 71 00:05:53,603 --> 00:05:55,938 When Queen Wang Mu took control of this region, 72 00:05:56,022 --> 00:05:58,566 she did not reject the old faiths. 73 00:05:58,649 --> 00:06:02,320 Is Queen Wang Mu the mother of the first emperor we just learned about? 74 00:06:03,237 --> 00:06:06,908 Yes. Queen Wang Mu told her son this, 75 00:06:07,533 --> 00:06:09,702 "Anyone who rules this land 76 00:06:09,786 --> 00:06:12,663 must pass through that shrine. 77 00:06:12,747 --> 00:06:15,708 And only those who choose the right path 78 00:06:15,792 --> 00:06:17,668 shall become the ruler of this land." 79 00:06:17,752 --> 00:06:20,296 Her son safely passed through the shrine, 80 00:06:20,379 --> 00:06:22,215 and thus became the emperor. 81 00:06:23,007 --> 00:06:26,761 The reason the capital was relocated to this place was because of that shrine. 82 00:06:26,844 --> 00:06:27,845 I see! 83 00:06:27,929 --> 00:06:30,932 However, it hasn't been used for decades now. 84 00:06:31,015 --> 00:06:33,726 Whether it will be used again in the future, who knows? 85 00:06:34,560 --> 00:06:36,104 What do you mean by that? 86 00:06:36,187 --> 00:06:39,357 The previous emperor’s older brothers 87 00:06:39,440 --> 00:06:41,692 all perished due to a widespread illness. 88 00:06:42,735 --> 00:06:45,238 The only one left was the previous emperor. 89 00:06:45,321 --> 00:06:48,950 So the decision was made without the need for the passage ritual. 90 00:06:49,617 --> 00:06:52,995 I'm glad to see someone interested in that place. 91 00:06:53,079 --> 00:06:55,289 It's been quite some time since that happened. 92 00:06:55,373 --> 00:06:58,292 Were there people who used to take an interest in it before? 93 00:06:58,376 --> 00:06:59,210 Yes. 94 00:06:59,293 --> 00:07:02,380 There used to be a rather unique court physician here. 95 00:07:02,463 --> 00:07:06,300 Whenever he had free time, he would wander around the rear palace. 96 00:07:06,384 --> 00:07:09,053 Just like you, he was also curious about that shrine… 97 00:07:09,137 --> 00:07:11,806 -Wait, could it be Luomen? -Oh? You know him? 98 00:07:12,390 --> 00:07:14,475 Damn, I let that slip. 99 00:07:14,976 --> 00:07:16,060 He was my foster father. 100 00:07:16,144 --> 00:07:19,897 After leaving the rear palace, he ran an apothecary in the pleasure district. 101 00:07:19,981 --> 00:07:22,400 I see, so you're Luomen's… 102 00:07:23,359 --> 00:07:26,863 Was this man close to my father? 103 00:07:26,946 --> 00:07:27,780 Maomao! 104 00:07:28,448 --> 00:07:29,949 Look! I wrote it! 105 00:07:30,575 --> 00:07:31,659 Oh! 106 00:07:34,245 --> 00:07:35,663 There is no poison. 107 00:07:37,707 --> 00:07:40,418 -I'll take my leave. -Wait, Apothecary. 108 00:07:41,002 --> 00:07:43,838 After this, I want you to accompany me. 109 00:07:44,547 --> 00:07:45,423 Where to? 110 00:07:45,506 --> 00:07:47,633 To the Shrine of Choosing. 111 00:07:49,844 --> 00:07:52,013 Why all of a sudden? 112 00:07:52,096 --> 00:07:54,765 What exactly is he planning to do? 113 00:07:55,850 --> 00:07:57,518 It's the old shrine I saw during the day. 114 00:07:58,644 --> 00:07:59,604 And also… 115 00:07:59,687 --> 00:08:01,772 the teacher at the learning hall? 116 00:08:01,856 --> 00:08:03,566 I have been expecting you. 117 00:08:03,649 --> 00:08:06,736 May I pass through it once more? 118 00:08:06,819 --> 00:08:09,906 No matter how many times you come, it may not change anything, 119 00:08:09,989 --> 00:08:11,282 but if you are still willing to… 120 00:08:11,908 --> 00:08:15,161 That’s quite a daring way to speak to the Emperor. 121 00:08:15,244 --> 00:08:16,871 Who will accompany you? 122 00:08:17,955 --> 00:08:19,457 Then, these two. 123 00:08:19,540 --> 00:08:20,625 What?! 124 00:08:20,708 --> 00:08:23,419 Isn’t this place off-limits to women? 125 00:08:24,587 --> 00:08:26,881 The Queen Wang Mu and the Empress Dowager were both women, you know. 126 00:08:28,090 --> 00:08:30,635 -Please, come on in. -Well then, shall we proceed? 127 00:08:36,641 --> 00:08:38,267 Three doors? 128 00:08:39,268 --> 00:08:42,146 "Do not pass through the red door"? 129 00:08:42,230 --> 00:08:43,147 The doors are… 130 00:08:43,231 --> 00:08:45,650 blue, red, and green. 131 00:08:46,275 --> 00:08:48,528 So we’re supposed to choose either blue or green? 132 00:08:48,611 --> 00:08:51,113 Which door will you choose? 133 00:08:51,197 --> 00:08:54,659 I’ll go with blue this time. Last time, I chose green. 134 00:08:54,742 --> 00:08:56,577 Indeed, that was the case. 135 00:08:56,661 --> 00:08:58,454 Well then, this way. 136 00:09:01,999 --> 00:09:05,419 Please consider those of us who manage this place. 137 00:09:05,503 --> 00:09:08,130 Just when we think it is no longer in use, 138 00:09:08,214 --> 00:09:10,716 someone suddenly shows up. 139 00:09:11,550 --> 00:09:12,677 I have caused you trouble. 140 00:09:14,679 --> 00:09:16,764 Three doors again… 141 00:09:16,847 --> 00:09:19,600 Green, brown, and light blue. Next it says, 142 00:09:20,184 --> 00:09:21,978 "Do not pass through the brown door." 143 00:09:22,061 --> 00:09:24,021 I’ll choose green. 144 00:09:24,105 --> 00:09:25,106 No way… 145 00:09:27,191 --> 00:09:28,568 Will this just keep 146 00:09:28,651 --> 00:09:30,653 repeating forever? 147 00:09:36,200 --> 00:09:39,328 Going up, going down, going back, turning around… 148 00:09:39,412 --> 00:09:41,747 I’ve completely lost my sense of direction. 149 00:09:41,831 --> 00:09:44,917 It feels like we’re just going around in circles. 150 00:09:45,418 --> 00:09:48,296 Why did the Emperor bring me here? 151 00:09:49,589 --> 00:09:51,757 I wish this would end soon. 152 00:09:56,929 --> 00:09:58,472 This is the final door. 153 00:09:59,598 --> 00:10:00,725 The next set of doors are… 154 00:10:00,808 --> 00:10:03,644 blue, purple, and yellow. And it says, 155 00:10:04,186 --> 00:10:06,606 "Do not pass through the blue door." 156 00:10:07,565 --> 00:10:11,235 Also, there’s another door leading here. 157 00:10:11,319 --> 00:10:13,946 Does that mean there's another path that merges here? 158 00:10:14,030 --> 00:10:15,364 I’ve decided. 159 00:10:16,240 --> 00:10:17,074 I’ll choose yellow. 160 00:10:19,910 --> 00:10:22,204 -Are you sure? -Yes. 161 00:10:25,833 --> 00:10:27,126 A dead end? 162 00:10:28,002 --> 00:10:31,130 "Child of royalty, yet not child of the Wang Mu." 163 00:10:31,839 --> 00:10:35,051 I don’t understand the meaning, but it’s clearly a rejection. 164 00:10:35,134 --> 00:10:37,428 It's the same result as last time. 165 00:10:42,391 --> 00:10:45,019 He looks unusually serious. 166 00:10:45,102 --> 00:10:48,272 Is it impossible for me to know the will of heaven? 167 00:10:48,356 --> 00:10:50,524 What are you saying? 168 00:10:50,608 --> 00:10:53,986 Ever since this shrine was sealed within the rear palace, 169 00:10:54,070 --> 00:10:57,698 I have been the only one left to manage it. 170 00:10:57,782 --> 00:11:00,284 What meaning could the will of heaven possibly have? 171 00:11:00,368 --> 00:11:02,578 This old eunuch was probably 172 00:11:02,661 --> 00:11:04,413 managing this shrine long before 173 00:11:04,997 --> 00:11:07,166 the rear palace was even established. 174 00:11:07,750 --> 00:11:09,293 In order to continue maintaining it, 175 00:11:09,377 --> 00:11:12,004 he went so far as to become a eunuch just so he could stay here. 176 00:11:13,881 --> 00:11:15,883 Your way out is over there. 177 00:11:21,138 --> 00:11:24,225 The Emperor followed the instructions on the signs. 178 00:11:24,308 --> 00:11:26,519 There shouldn’t have been any mistakes. 179 00:11:26,602 --> 00:11:28,938 And yet, he still didn’t reach the right answer. 180 00:11:30,106 --> 00:11:32,316 Was there another meaning behind all that? 181 00:11:32,817 --> 00:11:34,318 The number of rooms? 182 00:11:34,402 --> 00:11:36,028 The colors of the doors chosen? 183 00:11:36,112 --> 00:11:39,740 I'm sure Luomen would know. 184 00:11:39,824 --> 00:11:41,784 My old man would know? 185 00:11:41,867 --> 00:11:44,161 Are you saying that my father would be able to figure it out? 186 00:11:44,245 --> 00:11:46,414 Well, who knows? 187 00:11:47,248 --> 00:11:49,625 My father's knowledge is certainly incredible. 188 00:11:50,459 --> 00:11:53,796 But being told, "This is beyond you," really pisses me off. 189 00:11:54,547 --> 00:11:58,717 My father's knowledge is exceptional, especially when it comes to medicine. 190 00:11:58,801 --> 00:12:00,678 Does that mean this is related to that? 191 00:12:10,062 --> 00:12:12,481 Three doors, three colors… 192 00:12:13,315 --> 00:12:16,777 "Child of royalty, yet not child of the Wang Mu." 193 00:12:16,861 --> 00:12:20,030 What is the true meaning behind those words? 194 00:12:24,785 --> 00:12:26,954 Do you understand the meaning of 195 00:12:27,037 --> 00:12:28,581 "Yet not the child of the Wang Mu"? 196 00:12:29,582 --> 00:12:30,458 Now that I think about it… 197 00:12:31,083 --> 00:12:33,461 In the story of the founding of the nation, 198 00:12:33,544 --> 00:12:36,338 it’s always the first emperor's mother, Queen Wang Mu, who appears. 199 00:12:36,422 --> 00:12:37,882 The father is never spoken of. 200 00:12:38,382 --> 00:12:41,719 Then one would expect the maternal lineage to be valued, 201 00:12:41,802 --> 00:12:45,681 yet in reality, succession is passed down through males. 202 00:12:45,764 --> 00:12:49,226 If they intended to preserve Queen Wang Mu's bloodline… 203 00:12:49,310 --> 00:12:51,520 The previous emperor’s older brothers 204 00:12:51,604 --> 00:12:54,523 all perished due to a widespread illness. 205 00:12:54,607 --> 00:12:55,649 Lord Jinshi. 206 00:12:56,150 --> 00:12:58,194 Have you realized something? 207 00:12:58,277 --> 00:13:01,655 Were the former emperor’s brothers full siblings? 208 00:13:02,156 --> 00:13:04,033 Not all of them, 209 00:13:04,116 --> 00:13:07,620 but I heard that the mothers of the imperial princes were sisters. 210 00:13:07,703 --> 00:13:10,706 In other words, their blood was quite close. 211 00:13:12,082 --> 00:13:14,543 This may sound rude, 212 00:13:14,627 --> 00:13:16,378 but may I ask you something? 213 00:13:16,462 --> 00:13:18,047 I permit it. Speak. 214 00:13:19,131 --> 00:13:22,009 Throughout generations, 215 00:13:22,092 --> 00:13:25,012 haven’t many of the emperors had poor eyesight? 216 00:13:27,223 --> 00:13:30,726 I have heard that their eyesight certainly wasn’t very good. 217 00:13:30,809 --> 00:13:32,978 But the previous emperor had good vision. 218 00:13:33,479 --> 00:13:34,688 I knew it. 219 00:13:35,272 --> 00:13:38,359 Is it possible to pass through that shrine once more? 220 00:13:39,026 --> 00:13:42,071 Does the young lady have the qualifications for that? 221 00:13:43,197 --> 00:13:45,074 You brought her along with you earlier, 222 00:13:45,157 --> 00:13:47,243 but entering multiple times is not a good idea. 223 00:13:47,910 --> 00:13:51,914 Especially if she intends to interfere with the choice of doors. 224 00:13:51,997 --> 00:13:55,251 Besides, she’s neither a consort nor a princess, is she? 225 00:13:55,834 --> 00:13:57,711 I'm just a mere servant girl. 226 00:13:58,712 --> 00:14:01,298 Then shall I elevate her to a consort? 227 00:14:01,382 --> 00:14:04,009 Though convincing Lakan will be troublesome. 228 00:14:04,885 --> 00:14:07,221 -He must be joking. -You must be joking! 229 00:14:07,304 --> 00:14:09,098 What would the other consorts think? 230 00:14:10,849 --> 00:14:13,269 That is true. In that case, 231 00:14:13,352 --> 00:14:15,271 would you take her instead? 232 00:14:17,064 --> 00:14:18,691 That would be acceptable, wouldn’t it? 233 00:14:18,774 --> 00:14:21,485 If that is His Majesty’s wish. 234 00:14:22,194 --> 00:14:23,821 Then, shall we go? 235 00:14:24,989 --> 00:14:27,199 He seems more playful than usual. 236 00:14:29,076 --> 00:14:32,580 First, the blue, red, and green doors. 237 00:14:33,205 --> 00:14:35,332 "Do not pass through the red door." 238 00:14:35,416 --> 00:14:37,835 -Which will you choose? -The blue one. 239 00:14:38,586 --> 00:14:41,755 This is the same as the one His Majesty chose. 240 00:14:43,424 --> 00:14:46,802 Next, there's green, brown, and light blue. It says, 241 00:14:46,886 --> 00:14:48,304 "Do not pass through the brown door." 242 00:14:49,471 --> 00:14:50,598 The light blue door. 243 00:14:54,018 --> 00:14:56,228 The one I chose is different from yours. 244 00:14:57,813 --> 00:15:00,983 When I passed through earlier, I didn't realize it. 245 00:15:01,066 --> 00:15:02,985 If there is a door that only a "child of Wang Mu" can choose… 246 00:15:04,820 --> 00:15:08,073 Then the key must lie in the "color" of the doors. 247 00:15:10,993 --> 00:15:12,953 This is the tenth one. 248 00:15:13,037 --> 00:15:15,497 There's a white, purple, and green door. 249 00:15:16,332 --> 00:15:18,459 It says, "Pass through the red door." 250 00:15:20,336 --> 00:15:23,339 But there is no red door. What does this mean? 251 00:15:23,964 --> 00:15:25,341 The green door. 252 00:15:26,300 --> 00:15:27,343 Green? 253 00:15:28,677 --> 00:15:29,762 You’ll know once you go through. 254 00:15:33,349 --> 00:15:34,475 This is…? 255 00:15:40,689 --> 00:15:42,524 Congratulations. 256 00:15:42,608 --> 00:15:44,777 It seems you have chosen the correct path. 257 00:15:45,861 --> 00:15:48,489 Long ago, those chosen by Queen Wang Mu 258 00:15:48,572 --> 00:15:50,824 became the next king. 259 00:15:50,908 --> 00:15:52,826 They would stand here 260 00:15:52,910 --> 00:15:55,829 and swear an oath to the people. 261 00:15:55,913 --> 00:15:59,291 If no one could choose this path, 262 00:15:59,375 --> 00:16:02,628 they would return to this shrine 263 00:16:02,711 --> 00:16:05,381 with a consort who could. 264 00:16:05,881 --> 00:16:09,051 Originally, one who inherited the rightful blood 265 00:16:09,134 --> 00:16:11,053 was meant to do it. 266 00:16:11,136 --> 00:16:12,721 But this time, 267 00:16:12,805 --> 00:16:15,349 it seems that someone else has found the answer. 268 00:16:15,974 --> 00:16:18,268 You're the one who provoked me! 269 00:16:18,352 --> 00:16:19,436 What is this guy's problem? 270 00:16:19,520 --> 00:16:22,189 More importantly, explain this to me 271 00:16:22,272 --> 00:16:25,109 in a way Jinshi can understand. 272 00:16:25,192 --> 00:16:26,151 Perhaps 273 00:16:26,235 --> 00:16:29,071 you should ask the young lady over there. 274 00:16:29,988 --> 00:16:30,990 This guy… 275 00:16:31,073 --> 00:16:33,367 Is he trying to make me explain? 276 00:16:33,450 --> 00:16:34,743 So it seems. 277 00:16:38,205 --> 00:16:41,125 In the founding legend, it is said that Queen Wang Mu 278 00:16:41,208 --> 00:16:45,003 possessed eyes that could see through darkness. 279 00:16:45,546 --> 00:16:47,256 Those chosen by this shrine… 280 00:16:47,339 --> 00:16:49,633 In other words, those who carry Queen Wang Mu's blood 281 00:16:49,717 --> 00:16:53,387 are said to have eyes that cannot distinguish colors. 282 00:16:53,971 --> 00:16:55,347 Eyes that cannot distinguish colors? 283 00:16:56,015 --> 00:16:57,057 What do you mean? 284 00:16:57,725 --> 00:17:00,352 Then, allow me to explain the logic 285 00:17:00,436 --> 00:17:02,187 by which I chose the doors earlier. 286 00:17:02,771 --> 00:17:05,691 At first, there were three doors. Blue, red, and green. 287 00:17:06,442 --> 00:17:08,694 The instruction was "Do not pass through the red door." 288 00:17:09,278 --> 00:17:12,489 That means both blue and green should be correct choices, 289 00:17:12,573 --> 00:17:13,449 but "the child of Wang Mu" 290 00:17:13,532 --> 00:17:15,868 would have chosen blue. 291 00:17:15,951 --> 00:17:19,371 Because if one cannot distinguish between red and green, 292 00:17:19,455 --> 00:17:21,957 they would choose the door that is definitely not red. 293 00:17:22,666 --> 00:17:25,669 Unable to distinguish red from green? 294 00:17:25,753 --> 00:17:27,755 It is rare in this country, 295 00:17:27,838 --> 00:17:31,341 but in the western lands, it is said that 296 00:17:31,425 --> 00:17:33,969 one in ten men cannot differentiate between red and green. 297 00:17:34,053 --> 00:17:36,346 Luomen would know that, wouldn't he? 298 00:17:36,972 --> 00:17:39,391 My father, who studied abroad in the western lands, 299 00:17:39,475 --> 00:17:41,101 would have known this trait. 300 00:17:41,852 --> 00:17:43,979 So that's what he meant by that. 301 00:17:44,563 --> 00:17:45,939 The next door followed the same logic. 302 00:17:46,648 --> 00:17:48,275 It said, "Do not pass through the brown door." 303 00:17:48,984 --> 00:17:51,361 If one cannot distinguish between brown and green, 304 00:17:51,445 --> 00:17:53,781 then by process of elimination, they'd choose the light blue door. 305 00:17:54,406 --> 00:17:55,449 For the final door, 306 00:17:55,532 --> 00:17:57,826 the instruction was "Pass through the red door." 307 00:17:57,910 --> 00:18:01,080 However, there was no red door. 308 00:18:01,997 --> 00:18:05,793 But if one could clearly distinguish between white and purple, 309 00:18:05,876 --> 00:18:08,337 then the remaining door must be red. 310 00:18:08,962 --> 00:18:12,049 In other words, while it appeared as though there were two correct choices, 311 00:18:12,758 --> 00:18:16,303 the correct choice was only one. 312 00:18:16,386 --> 00:18:17,805 But 313 00:18:17,888 --> 00:18:20,516 if every emperor throughout history had such a trait, 314 00:18:20,599 --> 00:18:22,601 someone would notice, don't you think? 315 00:18:22,684 --> 00:18:25,104 My foster father once told me that 316 00:18:25,187 --> 00:18:26,897 even if one cannot distinguish colors, 317 00:18:26,980 --> 00:18:29,608 they can learn to adapt over time. 318 00:18:29,691 --> 00:18:32,319 So people around them might not even notice. 319 00:18:32,402 --> 00:18:35,572 And, in exchange for their difficulty with color perception, 320 00:18:35,656 --> 00:18:37,449 they are said to have excellent night vision. 321 00:18:37,950 --> 00:18:39,701 That might be the origin of the legend 322 00:18:39,785 --> 00:18:41,662 about the eyes of Queen Wang Mu. 323 00:18:42,162 --> 00:18:45,040 So only those who inherit this trait from Queen Wang Mu 324 00:18:45,124 --> 00:18:47,626 can pass through this place? 325 00:18:47,709 --> 00:18:51,296 Perhaps some people have stumbled through by chance, 326 00:18:51,797 --> 00:18:53,882 but the probability of making it to the final chamber 327 00:18:53,966 --> 00:18:55,551 would be incredibly low. 328 00:18:56,844 --> 00:18:58,178 In the old tales, 329 00:18:58,262 --> 00:19:01,640 it is said that Queen Wang Mu came from a distant land. 330 00:19:02,766 --> 00:19:06,687 She had the trait of being unable to distinguish colors, 331 00:19:06,770 --> 00:19:08,147 yet she came from the western lands 332 00:19:08,230 --> 00:19:10,816 with her attendants to this land. 333 00:19:10,899 --> 00:19:13,110 Settling in a new land 334 00:19:13,193 --> 00:19:15,195 wasn't an easy task. 335 00:19:15,279 --> 00:19:17,489 So, she married the leader 336 00:19:17,573 --> 00:19:19,032 of this land. 337 00:19:19,116 --> 00:19:20,826 Wait, Apothecary. 338 00:19:20,909 --> 00:19:23,871 In the legends, it is said that Queen Wang Mu had no husband. 339 00:19:23,954 --> 00:19:26,874 That is what makes Queen Wang Mu so cunning. 340 00:19:27,875 --> 00:19:29,585 To prevent the bloodline from becoming concentrated, 341 00:19:29,668 --> 00:19:31,503 it was not uncommon 342 00:19:31,587 --> 00:19:33,130 to marry someone from outside. 343 00:19:33,755 --> 00:19:35,257 Although Queen Wang Mu is the ancestor, 344 00:19:35,340 --> 00:19:38,093 the throne has been passed down by male heirs 345 00:19:38,177 --> 00:19:40,053 because they followed the method of establishing 346 00:19:40,137 --> 00:19:42,306 the leader of the bloodline. 347 00:19:42,389 --> 00:19:44,933 However, Queen Wang Mu's descendants 348 00:19:45,017 --> 00:19:47,311 couldn't accept the idea of their blood thinning out 349 00:19:47,394 --> 00:19:49,396 and disappearing entirely. 350 00:19:50,063 --> 00:19:51,940 A way to ensure that Queen Wang Mu's blood 351 00:19:52,024 --> 00:19:53,400 will be preserved for future generations… 352 00:19:53,483 --> 00:19:56,153 That is the "Shrine of Choosing." 353 00:19:57,279 --> 00:20:00,073 If no one possesses the trait, 354 00:20:00,157 --> 00:20:03,535 then someone of close blood to Queen Wang Mu is taken as consort, 355 00:20:03,619 --> 00:20:04,661 and together, they enter the shrine. 356 00:20:05,704 --> 00:20:07,706 The reason why consorts are also allowed 357 00:20:07,789 --> 00:20:09,374 to enter the shrine is because of this. 358 00:20:09,458 --> 00:20:11,251 Bit by bit, in this manner, 359 00:20:11,335 --> 00:20:13,545 they embedded themselves at the heart of the nation, 360 00:20:14,254 --> 00:20:17,466 erasing the existence of the original rulers from the stories 361 00:20:17,549 --> 00:20:19,259 until only Queen Wang Mu remained as the true ancestor. 362 00:20:20,010 --> 00:20:22,429 In time, as those who remembered the past disappeared, 363 00:20:22,512 --> 00:20:24,932 the only remaining story became the truth. 364 00:20:25,432 --> 00:20:27,851 It was an extremely peaceful yet… 365 00:20:27,935 --> 00:20:29,686 slow shift of power. 366 00:20:29,770 --> 00:20:32,856 Well, of course, that’s not something I can say right now. 367 00:20:32,940 --> 00:20:34,316 So, does that mean 368 00:20:34,399 --> 00:20:36,944 I do not carry the blood of Queen Wang Mu? 369 00:20:37,527 --> 00:20:41,531 The existence of this shrine is the only definitive way to determine that. 370 00:20:41,615 --> 00:20:43,742 Even if a parent possesses the trait, 371 00:20:43,825 --> 00:20:45,786 it does not always pass down to their children. 372 00:20:46,286 --> 00:20:50,040 Also, when blood becomes too concentrated, it can cause adverse effects. 373 00:20:50,123 --> 00:20:53,126 It is possible that the late emperor’s siblings 374 00:20:53,210 --> 00:20:55,003 fell ill for that very reason. 375 00:20:56,129 --> 00:20:58,256 To think that a mere girl 376 00:20:58,340 --> 00:21:01,468 would actually solve the mystery is something I never expected. 377 00:21:01,969 --> 00:21:03,178 "Mere girl"? 378 00:21:03,262 --> 00:21:05,639 It is said that Queen Wang Mu 379 00:21:05,722 --> 00:21:07,641 was able to rule this land because of 380 00:21:07,724 --> 00:21:09,851 her exceptional wisdom. 381 00:21:09,935 --> 00:21:12,437 If you're going to dilute the bloodline at this point, 382 00:21:12,521 --> 00:21:15,399 why not incorporate someone like her? 383 00:21:17,776 --> 00:21:20,195 What nonsense is that old guy saying? 384 00:21:20,279 --> 00:21:22,072 Well, that might be interesting, 385 00:21:22,155 --> 00:21:25,200 but I’d rather not make an enemy of Lakan, and more importantly, 386 00:21:25,283 --> 00:21:27,995 she’s lacking about 15 centimeters around the chest. 387 00:21:28,495 --> 00:21:29,746 Mind your own business. 388 00:21:30,414 --> 00:21:32,249 But do be careful. 389 00:21:32,332 --> 00:21:33,834 There are many who would not 390 00:21:33,917 --> 00:21:36,962 welcome the introduction of outside blood. 391 00:21:37,045 --> 00:21:38,463 I am well aware of that. 392 00:21:38,547 --> 00:21:42,092 Does Your Majesty truly understand? 393 00:21:42,968 --> 00:21:44,845 Please be careful. 394 00:21:47,264 --> 00:21:48,557 Understood. 395 00:21:58,984 --> 00:22:00,986 Who is he really? 396 00:22:01,945 --> 00:22:04,531 Just the Emperor’s favored eunuch? 397 00:22:04,614 --> 00:22:07,242 Is that really all? 398 00:22:09,995 --> 00:22:11,330 It doesn't matter. 399 00:22:11,913 --> 00:22:13,331 Ignorance is bliss. 400 00:22:14,124 --> 00:22:15,459 That's just how it is. 401 00:23:46,091 --> 00:23:50,262 NEXT EPISODE PREVIEW 402 00:23:57,394 --> 00:24:00,397 Next episode, "Empress Dowager." 403 00:24:00,480 --> 00:24:01,898 Subtitle translation by: Abhishek Chand Ramola chest.