[Note: ‘Lord’ and ‘prince’ are pretty much interchangeable in this whole drama, EXCEPT for the main characters and the ‘Crown Prince’ set to inherit throne]
Characters in episode:
Qin Ko Zen: 22 years old, sect leader of MingHua sect, profoundly scheming, deeply shrewd, cynical and elegant, CV: HolyNight
Yun Zong: 24 years old, leader of Qing Feng Guan, courtesy name Yun Shangjun; dedicated Taoist with pure hearted with few desires, free spirited and easy going, gentle and harmless, though capable of deception when needed CV: 卡修 THE VOICE ACTOR CHANGED FROM THE FIRST ONE.
Fang Ji: The 7th prince, He Lanchu’s, favorite person, about 26 years old, gentle soft mannered gentleman
Su Yishui: 27 on verge of 28 years old, Qin Ko Zen’s second elder disciple brother [Er Shixiong] that the man loved very much growing up. He appeared to a kind gentleman, but he had always been secretly coveting the position of the MingHua sect leader position, tried to kill Qin Ko Zen six years ago but fight caused both men to fall off cliff together where only Qin Ko Zen woke up afterwards from
Last episode review:
Yun Zong: (thoughts are filled with self-deprecation, extremely disappointed and painful) I wondered before why Qin Ko Zen would come and save me… everything was within his calculations … healing him, taking him on the run … now it seems, everything was just another joke. This person is insidious and cunning. I can never believe in him. I already knew this… I already knew this … and yet still, I was cheated again…
Qin Ko Zen: (after landing with Su Yishui, urgently asking) Shixiong, are you hurt?!
Su Yishui: (screams to his remaining brigade members and the MingHua sect members) What are all of you doing looking around dazed! Hurry up and arrest Yun Zong!
Yun Zong [steps back a few more feet, near edge of mountain precipice above the sea]: (again vomits a bit of blood, coldly smiling) Even in death, I will never fall into your hands!
[Falls gently, clothes flutter, the wind screams as YZ disappears below the clouds of the mountain; his person dissipating with the howling wind]
Yun Zong: (Thinking, very pained, while falling) Yun Zong, today’s situation, is your retribution for believing in the wrong person……
[Qin Ko Zen desperately rushed to the cliff too late to catch him; his whole person kneels on the ground and looks on despairingly pass the cliff]
Qin Ko Zen: (heartbroken, screaming in despair) Yun Zong! ! ! Don’t–! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Yun Zong! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Announcement: The original work of Su Te, the ancient drama Danmei, “Red Dust Road”, the fourth issue, welcome to listen.
1:41
Qin Ko Zen: (quiet, murmured, crying, heartbroken) Yun Zong, Yun Zong … Yun Zong …
[YZ dreams about QKZ’s voice and wakes up.]
[The following scene is on the Fang Ji’s ship, in YZ’s room, occasionally the sound of flipping pages sound]
Yun Zong: (just awakened) (stunned for a moment, looks around) (internal monologue, weakly) I am … not dead yet?
[Sitting up from the bed and leaning against the head of it] (Seeing a male in front of the room’s table reading a book, weak, and pained) This Gongzi…
[Fang Ji puts down the book, stands up, and slowly approaches]
Fang Ji: You’ve awoken up.
Yun Zong: (hoarse, weak voice) Thank you for this life-saving-deed. This poor Taoist is Yun Zong, dare to ask Your Excellency’s name? This place … where is it?
Fang Ji: This one’s name here is Fang Ji. This place here is –(slightly contemplative)…my residence.
Yun Zong: (cough cough cough)
Fang Ji: This Taoist’s serious injury has not yet completely healed, please rest in peace first. Whatever you may need, just inform the servant outside.
[He walks out, closes the door.]
—— Track 1 ——
[Day trip on a river boat]
[Birds chirping, monkey sounds, gurgling water, wind sounding, sound of the sails being filled by the wind]
[Manservant 2 stands at the bow of the ship]
Manservant 2 : (Singing casually, the song echoes in the valley, creating a sense of tranquility and comfort)
Manservant 1 : [Sneak attack from behind, patting Manservant 2 on the back to scare him.] Hey!
Manservant 2 : [Turns around and jumps a step back] (stunned) What are you doing? [Patting his chest] That was frightening.
Manservant 1 : What are you doing lazily around here? Where is Gongzi?
Manservant 2 : You’re the one that’s lazy, Gongzi is in the room of the Taoist, Yun Zong, saying he didn’t need me to serve them.
[Zooms into the room’s interior, Yun Zong slowly walks in front of the bookshelf, Fang Ji sits at the table, flipping through his book]
Yun Zong: (Sees the chessboard on the bookshelf) This piece of chessboard— 【He picks it up and examines it in detail, lightly tapping a few times on the surface】It has an excellent surface, (smells it lightly) this fragrance is mild but continuous. Made of ancient very rare wood. Very hard to find. Since we have nothing to do, how about a match between us?
Fang Ji: (Slightly embarrassed) This…this one has inferior chess skills, please do not laugh.
[He closes the book in his hand and sets it aside, readying to play]
Yun Zong: This gongzi is too modest.
[Yun Zong places the chessboard on the table, lays out the chess pieces in correct formation, and the two sit down opposite each other]
Yun Zong: Black moves first, Fang Gongzi please–
[Fang Ji picks up a piece and put it on the chessboard. The two make a series of chess moves, a bit of time passes]
5:08
Yun Zong: (Doesn’t hesitate to ask) Fang Gongzi, in fact, you are not the master here, right?
Fang Ji: (stunned) What makes this Taoist say so?
Yun Zong: (Slightly hard pressed) Because this poor Taoist feels that Fang Gongzi and this residence are very mismatched. Although there are many books on the shelf in this room, the cover pages are all covered with dust, which shows that they have not been touched for a long time. Moreover, this gongzi is obviously not good at chess, but there is such an expensive chess board in this room. (pause) The most important point-[Yun Zong places down a chess piece] why are the clothes this poor Taoist changed into manufactured by the imperial palace?
[Fang Ji is silent for a while, the two stop playing chess]
Fang Ji: (carefully) This Taoist has thought too much… this place is indeed my residence but… (pauses) This room that Daozhang [Taoist] is staying in, hasn’t been set foot in for many years now.
6:06
Yun Zong: Why is that?
Fang Ji: The things in this room all belong to an old friend of mine. Even the clothes that Daozhang have put on are… the man’s old clothes. This person’s identity is distinguished, pardon this one for not having the convenience to disclose. That day, Daozhang was seriously injured, unconscious and floating on the water’s surface; coincidentally, I was passing by so I rescued you. Wanting to wait until your injury fully recovered before sending you to the shore.
Yun Zong: (slightly embarrassed) Fang Gongzi forgive me…… this poor Taoist was too suspicious.
Fang Ji: (chuckles) No worries. (Pause) Where does Daozhang intend to go after we dock? Maybe you and I can go together.
Yun Zong: (after thinking for a bit) This poor Taoist wants to go to the capital, I don’t know where Fang Gongzi is going?
Fang Ji: (prevaricating) Then it seems that Daozhang and I can’t go the same way. But this one has a friend that is also going to the capital. If you go with this person, he will be able to ensure Daozhang’s safety, and I can rest assured.
7:12
Yun Zong: (Laughs) I thank this gongzi for considering this poor Taoist. (speaking with a smile) By the way, this poor Taoist just cooked a pot of good tea, would you like to share it?
Fang Ji: (Laughs) Daozhang’s tea making skills are superb so of course I would like to join.
[Yun stands up and brings over a tray with a steaming teapot and cups]
[Yun places it on the table, takes out the tea cup and teapot; pours two cups of tea, puts one in front of them each, both before sitting back down]
Yun Zong: Fang Gongzi please.
Fang Ji: [Picks up the teacup] (lightly inhales the tea’s aroma before taking a sip) Indeed good tea.
Yun Zong: Tasting this tea is like watching the world. Red Dust [mortal affairs] unlimited, heart like unsettled tea leaves, between life’s ups and downs: no surprises no trouble.
Fang Ji: (murmuring) Red dust unlimited, heart like unsettled tea leaves, between life’s ups and downs: no surprises no trouble…no surprises no trouble…
[The sound of the boat turning sounds outside the window; occasionally the sound of birds and the cries of unknown animals emit from both sides of the bank]
—— Track 2 ——
[Early morning, on the ship (close to the pier), outside Yun Zong’s room]
[Noisy vocals and water sounds from the pier in the distance]
[Miscellaneous docks:
Lady A: (Shouting) Hey! Boatman! What time is the ferry today!
Boatman: (hard tone) It leaves as soon as it’s full!
8:52
Passerby: (happily) It’s great luck. Fortunately, I caught up with this waterway today!
Passerby B: (Happy) Boss! How are you selling these fresh fish?
Fishmonger: Hey, I’m sorry, this master has come late, these fresh goods were ordered by someone yesterday!
[Focus turns indoors, knocks sound on a door, YZ’s steps to and opens the door of his room]
Yun Zong: (greeting) Fang Gongzi.
Fang Ji: Daozhang, the ship is about to dock, please prepare for it.
Yun Zong: I would like to thank this gongzi for coming to tell me, but … is there something like a veil that can cover one’s face on this ship?
Fang Ji: Daozhang is under some kind of inconvenience that he needs to cover his face?
Yun Zong: This poor Taoist … is wary of my enemies giving chase.
Fang Ji: I ask Daozhang to wait one moment while I go retrieve what you ask.
[Fang steps out of the room]
Yun Zong (internal monologue): (worried) If He Lanyu and Qin Ko Zen are still looking for me, the path to the capital might not be smooth…
[Fang Ji comes back to the room a moment later and hands a small box to Yun Zong]
Fang Ji: Daozhang take a look to see if this will be useful?
[YZ takes the case and open it]
Yun Zong: (surprised) Is this … a [fake] human skin mask?
10:06
Fang Ji: Back in the day, I too … had enemies to evade, so I entered the martial world, and prepared a few human skin masks. This is one I haven’t used before, so please don’t worry when you wear it.
Yun Zong: [cupping his hands in front of him in obeisance] Thank you, gongzi. Although gongzi’s life-saving grace cannot be repaid immediately by this poor Taoist, but in the future if we can meet again, I will again express my gratitude.
Fang Ji: (Laughs) Daozhang has profound good fortune, and will surely be able to change your misfortunes into blessings. This one has only offered a little help. (pauses) After landing on the shore today, I will meet the friend that is going to the capital at Huijun Tower. Daozhang should come with me.
[Slight collision sound when the ship docks, the sound of the boatman comes from the door farthest away from the room to shout]
Boatman: Gongzi! Docking!
Fang Ji: Ah, the ship is nearing the shore, Daozhang please get ready. I will wait for you at the pier.
[After speaking he leaves through the door, closing it on his way out]
—— Track 3 ——
[Huijun Tower, Daytime]
[Yun and Fang both walk into the inner hall, a person comes up to greet each of them]
[The sound of the faint silk bamboo orchestra plays in the background]
[Huijun Tower interior]:
Guest 1: (smile) When does nianxiong* intend to take office?
[Nianxiong = fellow student that passed the imperial government exam]
Guest 2: (smile) Oh, I will start next month.
Guest 1: With this cup, I wish my nianxiong to have all brilliant future prospects and to have widespread success.
Guest 2: (smile) Taking Brother Zhang’s lucky words, this one will pay tribute first. (drinks)
11:45
Guest 3: (Intoxicated) Ah ~ This Taihu Yin Fish Soup is exactly the same as what I tasted in the Wuxi County Governor’s House.
Guest 4: Really? Let me try.
Waiter: (slightly enthusiastic) What do these two masters want to order?
Fang Ji: (gently) My name is Fang Ji, may I ask….
Waiter: (quickly has epiphany) Oh Fang Gongzi! Upstairs please! Your friend has been waiting for you for awhile. Please follow this little one up.
12:07
Yun Zong (internal monologue): This Huijun Tower is really worthy of the title “number one tower in all of Jiangnan”, it is so extravagantly furnished. Fang Gongzi’s friend may also be … rich or famous.
[Waiter leads the way, the two follow him up; footsteps of going upstairs and stepping on the wooden stairs sound]
Waiter: [stops] This is the room, please go in.
[Waiter pushes the wooden door open, Fang and Yun enter]
Fang Ji: Brother Qin, I haven’t seen you for a long time.
[Qin Ko Zen puts down the cup in his hand and stands up]
Qin Ko Zen: (Laughs) It’s indeed been a long time! This table’s food has been prepared just waiting for Brother Fang to come!
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) (shocked) It’s him!
[Qin took the first two steps towards YZ]
Qin Ko Zen: This is?
Fang Ji: This one here is my friend, called-
Yun Zong: (interrupts, deliberately lowering his voice, clearing his throat) This old one is called Li Mohuai. [cups his hands in front of himself in respectful obeisance] Pleasure to meet this gongzi.
Qin Ko Zen: (laughs) This one’s name is Qin Ko Zen, pleasure to meet Senior Li. Please sit down—
[Three people sit down, silent servant pours wine, everyone picks up their chopsticks/bowls]
Fang Ji: This Li … Senior Li, also happens to be going to the capital too, if it is convenient to Brother Qin, how’s about going with him?
Qin Ko Zen: Since it’s a favor for Brother Fang, how could I be unwilling. But are you really not going with me to the capital.
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) (Helplessly depressed) Brother Fang, your kindness is going to be my downfall.
13:22
Fang Ji: [Picks up the cup and drinks tea] (laughs) I still have some personal affairs to deal with so I will not go. [Puts down the cup] Brother Qin, I heard that you are looking for someone these days, may I inquire… who it is?
Qin Ko Zen: [Puts his own wine glass on the table] (forlorn) He’s my… very important person. But somehow, no matter what, I can’t find him.
Fang Ji: With the strength of Brother Qin, how could there be anyone that can’t be found. Please rest assured that after some time, there will be progress?
Qin Ko Zen: This person may also go to the capital … Maybe after arriving at Jingcheng, I’ll be able to find him.
Fang Ji: Then I bid Brother Qin to find this person’s whereabouts as soon as possible.
Qin Ko Zen: I hope what Brother Fang said will actualize.
[Fang, Qin and Yun raise their glasses and drink]
14:29
—— Track 4 ——
【In front of the inn, daytime】
[Noisy crowds on the street in the distance, bustling street]
Lady who sells pork: Look at the fresh pork of my shop! Guaranteed fresh and evenly marbled fat! Guarantee your satisfaction!
Another shop owner: Selling buns! Hot cabbage and pork stuffed buns!
Baby girl: (crying) Mother ~ I want to eat rock sugar gourd ~ I want to eat it! I want to eat it! I want to eat it now!
Woman B: (softly coaxing) Qiuer, I will buy it for you soon.
Women selling vegetables: Cabbages cabbages! Freshly harvested Chinese cabbage ~ Fresh and watery!
Beggar 1 : [Knocking on the ground with alms bowl] This master! Please pity us! Spare a meal for us, master! Master! I kowtow to you! [Someone throws in some coins]
Beggar 1 (Thankfully) Thank you, master, thank you master!
Beggar 2 : Well done! All right! This sir, okay … give me a meal … Ouch, this master … please… give me a meal…
Rich businessman: (See the beggars blocking the road, angry) [shove beggar] Get away!!! Don’t get in the way!!!
Beggar 2 : Ouch!
[All background dialogue drowned mostly by the sound of the road]
QKZ’s Servant: (Sees Yun Zong, greets him) Senior Li, you are here. [YZ footsteps approaches] This is the carriage specially prepared for you by my master.
【The horse snorts and stomps a few hoofs】
Yun Zong: (asks in a low voice) Thank you very much. What about your owner’s carriage?
Servant: (laughs) My master does not take a carriage.
[Qin Ko Zen arrives on the horse Night Shadow with a ‘Heng’ sound along with the horse’s hooves]
[Upon approaching the disguised YZ, Night Shadow immediately arches his neck down to nuzzle into Yun Zong’s embrace]
Yun Zong: (internal monologue, scared) Night Shadow?
[YZ takes a step back, Night Shadow squeals in overt dissatisfaction.]
Qin Ko Zen: (greets) Senior.
[Qin Ko Zen pulled the reins and calms down Night Shadow]
Yun Zong: (lowering his voice) Master Qin’s horse … is really extraordinary.
【Quiet moment】
Qin Ko Zen: (tone carrying a hidden implication) This one’s horse has always been shy around strangers. Save for me, I’ve only ever seen him get close to one other person. Unexpectedly, this senior also draws his liking as well.
Yun Zong: (low voice, thinking about what is going on in QKZ’s head, worried) Master Qin you are embarrassing me—
Qin Ko Zen: (interrupts) It’s already late, we should get going. Senior, please get in the carriage.
[Qin Ko Zen rides on horse, horse clops, hooves sounds and snorting]
Yun Zong: (exhales)
[Yun Zong walks to the carriage]
Servant: [Takes out a stool from the carriage] Senior please-
16:14
[Yun Zong steps on the stool and gets in the carriage, pulls down the curtain]
Qin Ko Zen: Drive!
[They drive out of the noisy town.]
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) I’m trying my best to avoid Qin Ko Zen, but … (sigh) It’s all God’s will.
—— Track 5 ——
[Entering the town, the carriage slowly drives on the road, daylight]
【YZ pulls up the carriage’s curtains】
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) This carriage is moving so slowly -is Qin Ko Zen not really rushing to go to Jingcheng? But what intention does he have to go there at this time?
[The carriage stops, the footsteps of the servant walks in and lifts the curtain]
Servant: Senior, the master instructed this small one to invite you to the nearby restaurant for you to eat some food.
17:35
Yun Zong: (low voice) I understand, I will go with you.
[Yun Zong get out of the car, the two walk into the restaurant, restaurant is bustling.]
Bulky Man 1: Waiter! A pound of beef, three jugs of Daughter Red [name of alcohol]!
Bulky Man 2: There’s so many of us, how could one pound possibly be enough, Waiter! Three more pounds!!
The Waiter: (responds loudly) Ai! No problem! It’ll only be a moment! The food and drinks will be out soon!
Qin Ko Zen: [Sitting at the table] Senior, please share this table with me.
[Yun Zong steps to him, sits down, the Waiter comes, put several plates of different dishes on the table]
Waiter: (excitedly) Guests! Your fatty king fish with garlic sauce, shrimp in tomato sauce, tender chicken with Sichuan peppercorns, and fresh begonia mushrooms.
[The Waiter walks away, the two start to eat, with YZ only focusing on the vegetarian dish]
Qin Ko Zen: (curious) Why does this senior only eat this dish of fresh mushrooms? Could it be that this senior only eats vegetarian food?
Yun Zong: This old one has not eaten meat for decades.
Qin Ko Zen: So that’s how it is. (calling) Waiter—
[The Waiter trots over]
Waiter: Guest, what else can I help you with?
【YZ pouring tea】
Qin Ko Zen: Except for the fresh begonia mushrooms, send the rest of these dishes to those other tables. Additionally, bring out two bowls of plain noodles, a plate of steamed tofu, a high quality soup of seasonal vegetables, quickly now.
Waiter: (noticing Yun Zong) Hey ~ Senior, your tea is overflowing. Be careful not to get your clothes wet.
Yun Zong: (recovers, low voice) … Thanks for reminding, I didn’t notice. [Stops pouring tea and puts the teapot back on the table]
The Waiter: Wait a moment, please, I will change the dishes for the two of you.
[The Waiter picks up the rejected dishes and puts them on the tray before walking away]
Qin Ko Zen: [Picks up his tea cup and drink a sip] I have an old friend who is also a vegetarian. These two dishes are his favorite ones, I believe they should fit this senior’s palate as well.
Yun Zong: [heart thumps] (low voice) I thank Qin Gongzi for his consideration.
19:31
Qin Ko Zen: (Laughs) This senior doesn’t need to be so polite. [Puts the teacup on the table] Oh, by the way, just now I accidentally broke open a wound on my body when riding the horse. I’m afraid for the rest of the travel, I’ll have to burden senior by riding in the same carriage as you.
Yun Zong: [puts down his chopsticks] (low voice) Since Master Qin is not at ease for riding, this old man will ride…
Qin Ko Zen: (Interrupts) Oh no. Brother Fang specially instructed that day that this senior’s body is weak and naturally cannot bear the ups and downs of riding a horse. That carriage is very spacious, even if two people were to sit in it, they wouldn’t feel squeezed. Or is that this senior is unwilling to sit in the same carriage as this one?
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) If I insistently refuse, I’m afraid that it will arouse his suspicions ever since Night Shadow showed affection to me, everyone of Qin’s actions seems full of testing intention. At this moment … it’s better not to alert the enemy inadvertently.
Yun Zong: (low voice, laughs) Master Qin thinks too much, this senior…… has no unwillingness.
Qin Ko Zen: [Puts down the chopsticks] (laughs) That’s good. (Pauses, loudly shouts) Waiter! Aren’t the dishes we changed to ready yet?
Waiter: (Slightly further away, near the kitchens) Guests please wait another moment, the dishes will be delivered immediately!
21:10
—— Track 6 ——
【Daytime, inside the carriage, riding through the countryside】
[The carriage drives onwards, the road is rugged, so the dialogue of the characters fluctuate with the bumps]
Qin Ko Zen: During this whole trek, senior’s words have been [as seldom] as gold. Is it because of displeasure for this one, unwilling to pay any attention to them?
Yun Zong: (low voice) This gongzi has misunderstood, this senior’s wounds have not yet healed completely and still needs quiet meditation to so- [words suddenly interrupted by violent bumps in the road; they had driven over a particularly large rock.
[Yun Zong’s body slid and gets hugged by QKZ with both arms]
Qin Ko Zen: Senior be careful! [He snicks YZ’s neck lightly] (He becomes immediately intoxicated; his voice is coquettish, seductively low voice) Ah ~ this senior’s body smells really nice ~
Yun Zong: [Pushes him away] (Angry) You–!
Qin Ko Zen: (as if nothing happened) I hadn’t noticed it before, only up close can I smell it now but does this senior have the habit of using incense?
Yun Zong: [Sits back down in his original seat] (low voice, coldly) I think it’s the scent of your own body?
22:02
Qin Ko Zen: (Laughs) Senior heard what I said to Brother Fang right, (sighing) I … am looking for someone.
Yun Zong: (stunned, low voice) I wonder who Qin Gongzi is looking for?
Qin Ko Zen: (Resolutely) He is someone that in this lifetime…I can never let go of.
[Silence for a moment, there is the bumpy sound of the carriage on the rough road]
Qin Ko Zen: (Muttering, in emotional pain) That person is to me, the only variable in this red dust world. I … I did n’t know what was real love before, and I did many wrong things to him … I caused him to lose ten years of his skill set … He left me twice … I couldn’t keep him…
Yun Zong: (low voice, enduring his own anger) Gongzi, everything is fated, best not to dwell on things.
Qin Ko Zen: (does not hear that statement in his mind, he’s in an almost trance, filled with heartache) I never thought he would be so resolute: rather give up his own life than stay with me. (More and more painful whispering, neurotic murmurs) I watched him fall off the cliff … watched him fall off the cliff but I– (suddenly raised his tone, half almost in delusion) I don’t believe that he died just like that, but I can’t find him… I turned the cliff up and down, searched it from bottom to top, back and forth … but I couldn’t find him regardless.
Yun Zong: (Heart shaken but maintains his composure as he speaks, low voice) Love in the world is in the end not something that can be forced. Qin Gongzi should best move on, maybe for that person, what he did was a kind of relief.
Qin Ko Zen: (scoffs) Relief? Hahaha-[excited body leans forward close to YZ] (aggressive, very anxiously asking) Does this senior also feel that *if it was destiny for me to have him when I did, it’s also destiny now for me to have lost him*? (The tone changes, adamant) Unfortunately, I don’t recognize those words! [Flicks his arms defiantly, his sleeves flutter in the air] In this lifetime, I will love him and only him! I’m willing to swear by my MingHua sect’s century old foundation that if I find him, I will admit to everything and never hide anything again. Use everything I have to protect him forever!
Yun Zong: (low voice) Why are you like this…[sighs] with the talents this gongzi has, whose heart can you not reacquire?
Qin Ko Zen: (Excited and happy) Does senior also think he will return to my side?
Yun Zong: (low voice, halfheartedly) Mmm. It is only natural. (Changes topic) After a long ride in this carriage, I feel a little hungry.
Qin Ko Zen: [Takes out food box and opens it] This is the plum flower pastry I bought from a store a few days ago. Senior can eat a few to tide you over for now.
Yun Zong: This … I thank Master Qin. [Takes the small dish filled with little round cakes, sets dish on side table and picks up one to take a bite of]
Qin Ko Zen: (curious) I wonder if this plum flower cake can match the taste palette of this senior?
Yun Zong: (low voice, while chewing) Mm…
[The horse suddenly hisses; the carriage suddenly stops and the movement throws YZ once again]
Yun Zong: (Coughs choking)
[Qin Ko Zen pats a few times on Yun Zong’s back]
Qin Ko Zen: (angry) What’s going on?!
25:02
Servant: My Lord, it’s Lin San. He says that he has something important to report to my Lord.
Qin Ko Zen: (to the servants) Let him through.
Servant: Yes! (To Lin San, a little louder) Lin San, come here.
【QKZ and YZ disembark from the carriage but stays close to it, meeting the man outside where it’s more spaciously convenient】
[Lin San approaches the carriage and salutes]
Lin San: (respectfully) Informing my master, this subordinate has just received a report that reveals the location of Yun Shangjun.
Yun Zong: (internal monologue, disbelieving) How is that possible?
Qin Ko Zen: (urging) Hurry and speak!
[Lin San walks close to QKZ and YZ]
Lin San: The news is all in this note, may I please ask master to look at it—
[A few steps closer to Qin, secretly reaches out into his sleeve, draws a sharp dagger, and stabs at QKZ]
Yun Zong: (shocked, loud) Be careful!
[Qin Ko Zen withdraws to avoid but still gets stabbed in the right abdomen]
[Qin Ko Zen managed to fight with Lin San for a few strikes before finally managing to clasp onto Lin San’s wrist. With a ‘kacha’ sound, QKZ manages to snap Lin San’s right hand before kicking the man to the ground.]
Qin Ko Zen: (painful snorting) [His body falters and Yun Zong hurriedly supports him]
Yun Zong: (low voice) Gongzi please endure for just a moment, this senior will go and get help!
[Yun Zong releases the hand holding Qin Ko Zen and walks two steps away]
[Su Yishui with several subordinates appears and approaches them]
Su Yishui: (with a smile) Don’t bother trying, leader Qin’s subordinates have already been dealt with.
Yun Zong: (internal monologue, surprised) Su Yishui?
[Yun Zong takes two steps to stand in front, blocking Qin Ko Zen]
Yun Zong: (low voice) What are you intending?
Su Yishui: (Laughs) Shidi, this subordinate of yours is quite loyal. Even at this time he doesn’t try to escape on his own and instead stands protectively before you.
Qin Ko Zen: (cold snorting, very weak) Su Yishui, your scheme was quite good, even managing to bribe my own men, secretly scheming against me!
26:33
【Su Yishui approaching step by step】
Su Yishui: (smiles slightly, ridiculing) Just blame yourself for trusting the wrong people. (pause) Okay, shidi, no more pointless chatter, hand to me the identifying leadership token of MingHua Sacred Sect!
Qin Ko Zen: (painful breaths and gasping) You … you want it so much … come and get it yourself!
【Su Yishui approaches】
Subordinate 1: (Shouting) Master, beware of trickery!
[Su Yishui pauses, raises his arm and points to Yun Zong]
Su Yishui: (coldly speaks to Yun Zong) You! Give to me the token from your master!
[Yun Zong approaches and kneels in front of Qin Ko Zen, reaching for his sleeve pockets]
Qin Ko Zen: (whispering) In my right sleeve … while they are not paying attention…
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) Right sleeve? (Reaches in and feels something) This is …
[Yun Zun turns around and throws the hidden smoke bomb at Su Yishui]
Subordinate 1: (Exclaiming) Master be careful!
【Su Yishui jumps to avoid】
[With a ‘boom!’ an explosion occurs, smoke fills the scene, subordinates throw away their swords desperately to cover their noses and mouth]
Subordinates 1/2/3/4 : (coughing)
Su Yishui: (coughing)
[Yun Zong takes advantage of their inability to see and carries Qin Ko Zen up onto the nearby horse, quickly departing on it, the horse hisses, and the sound of the horse’s hooves fade away into distance]
Su Yishui: (Angry) Damn! Chase them!
Subordinates 1/2/3/4 : Yes!
[Su Yishui and group all mount their own horses one after another, chasing in their direction]
—— Track 7 ——
[At night, in the wild]
[Yun Zong holds Qin Ko Zen while they hide among tall weeds, various sounds of owls and insects]
[Horses gallop from far to near, torches burning in the wind held by Su Yishui’s men; YZ feels nervous]
Qin Ko Zen: (whispering) Senior——
Yun Zong: (low voice) Shh!
[Hears the sound of dialogue not far away]
Subordinate 1: [Reins, horse’s hoarse hooves sound] Master, there are the road forks here.
[Su Yishui looks over and dismounts, walks a few steps to explore]
Su Yishui: Looking at the traces of horse’s prints, they should have taken the path on the right, continue to chase!
27:58
[Su Yishui mounts his horse again, everyone rides off]
Yun Zong: (low voice, exhales deeply in relief) Finally they’ve left.
Qin Ko Zen: (Laughs) Thank you, senior.
[The two of them sits down and Yun Zong takes out a bottle of Jinchuang medicine from his belongings]
Yun Zong: (low voice) Gongzi should take this opportunity to treat his wound.
[Bends down to check Qin Ko Zen’s injury and prepares to pull QKZ’s palm, that is covering his abdomen, away]
Yun Zong: (low voice) This gongzi should uncover his hand so this old man can treat it for you.
[Qin Ko Zen does not let go]
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) (Stunned for a moment, realizing something is wrong)-Hmm? Qin Ko Zen’s abdomen … has no blood stains? (Epiphany) Ha, perhaps Qin Ko Zen was wearing a protective soft gold silk armor. Although the sword that stabbed him was real, he was not injured at all. This man … actually deceived me again!
[Yun Zong takes his hand away and stands up]
[Qin Ko Zen hurriedly stands up to catch his wrist]
29:00
Qin Ko Zen: (anxiously) Senior…
[YZ swipes his sleeve, breaking out of his grip]
Yun Zong: (low voice, coldly) Since you are not injured, please go down the mountain by yourself.
[Yun Zun turns around and is about to leave but suddenly feels dizzy; his legs soften, and he pitches forward]
Yun Zong: (unsteady breaths)
[Qin Ko Zen’s hands wrap around his waist and catches Yun Zong]
Yun Zong: (low voice, startled and angry) You! When did you–!
Qin Ko Zen: (slightly apologetic, embarrassed) I … I gave you a dose of Soft Muscle Powder, it’ll fade in just two hours’ time.
Yun Zong: (low voice, anger) When did you poison me? Unless just now on horseback?
Qin Ko Zen: (Hurry) No! It was … It was the plum flower cake I gave you before … You just ate too little of it so the effect took longer to show…
Yun Zong: (low voice) Why?
Qin Ko Zen: Because … [Hugging Yun Zong] (whispering) I want to confirm whether or not you’re really Yun Zong?
[Qin Ko Zen carries Yun Zong with both arms and walks to a bubbling spring not far away]
[Night scene, amongst the grass and spring water, the sound of water and insects emit]
Qin Ko Zen: Why won’t you talk? I just gave you Soft Muscle Powder but I didn’t jab your mute pressure point, Shangjun.
[Qin Ko Zen puts YZ on the grass besides the spring while still cradling him; Yun Zong summons his inner qi to try and push out the poison]
Qin Ko Zen: The Soft Muscle Powder cannot be expelled by qi, you will be fine after two hours. (pause) Are you wearing a human skin mask? [Splashing some spring water onto his hands, QKZ gropes around Yun Zong’s face and finds the seal of the mask before pulling it off] (joyfully) It really is you.
Yun Zong: ….
Qin Ko Zen: I used all of my energy to find you; every boat that passed along the way was not allowed to leave without my permission (sigh) yet who knew that you would be rescued by Brother Fang –his boat alone is not something I would search.
Yun Zong: (internal monologue) What is the identity of Fang Ji? That Qin Ko Zen wouldn’t didn’t dare to search his boat?
30:50
Qin Ko Zen: Later when you appeared in front of me, I originally didn’t have any suspicions but then that day Night Shadow showed affection to you. I found it very strange. Then I was even more puzzled when I saw that you were a vegetarian. Until finally today— (whispering smile) when I leaned into you and smelled the scent of Peaceful Soul Incense.
Yun Zong: (internal monologue, surprised) Peaceful Soul Incense?
Qin Ko Zen: Although Peaceful Soul Incense is an anesthetic, once exposed to it one’s body will be infected with the scent for their lifetime. The trace is very faint, an average person would not easily notice it, but so long as someone is close to the person and is familiar with the characteristics of the fragrance, they will naturally be able to identify it.
Yun Zong: So what does this leader plan to do next? Is it to bring this poor Taoist back to MingHua holy sect to be placed under house arrest again, or to bring this poor Taoist to the capital, or … some other plan?
[He waits a moment for his reply and when he doesn’t receive it, YZ looks up again to see QKZ intently staring at him with a look of satisfaction.
That was…an extremely euphoric smile.]
Qin Ko Zen: (Happy, low tone) Actually … [Qin Ko Zen suddenly holds YZ up close again.] I was very happy when you blocked in front of me just now.
Yun Zong: (cold humph)
Qin Ko Zen: (seeing YZ’s cold gaze, his smile freezes, stunned, saddened) You … don’t believe me … Yun Zong [Qin Ko Zen’s head gradually lowers and buries it in the crook of his neck, arms tightening around him, his hot breaths blowing against YZ’s neck]…as I said in the carriage … I will never lie to you again in the future, can you … (internal monologue) Can you forget the past and stop looking at me like this?
[He wanted to ask that last question but QKZ already knew YZ would not answer. Knew that the hurt he’d caused was too much for the man to just drop all suspicions from him.
If they hadn’t had such a bad start … if he had realized earlier that he’d subconsciously become infatuated with this man, would they…would they not have fallen to this abysmal point today? Desperate to not be hated by him…but would rather be hated by him than to have YZ be completely indifferent.]
[His hands unconsciously caressed YZ’s long gray hair, reminding himself again of how much damage he’d caused. The man in his hold couldn’t break free no matter how much he struggled and QKZ’s hand dived deeper and deeper, slipping into his shirt, greedily stroking the smooth skin underneath, causing QKZ to exhale contentedly.]
Yun Zong: (surprised, ashamed and annoyed) Stop …stop! Qin Ko Zen! What do you want to do!
[Qin Ko Zen presses YZ into the shallow water of the active spring, causing splashes because of YZ’s weak struggles]
Qin Ko Zen: (Overwhelming breathy erotic voice) What do you think I want, Shangjun … [entirely covering YZ’s body] (whispering, full of desire) Naturally – I……want you!
[Yun Zong struggles desperately, Qin Ko Zen suppresses all of the efforts, fierce water splashes every which way, drenching both of them]
Qin Ko Zen: (internal monologue, pained) Yun Zong … I hurt you too much in deception, you and me. I know it’s impossible for you to abandon all past grievances…I trapped myself…
33:23
Yun Zong: (The breath sound when overwhelmed, slightly choked) Cough … asshole! Stop……
Qin Ko Zen: (enchanted smile, low) Shangjun, with how you look now, it really makes people feel hungry and unable to resist… Especially this waist, just looking at it through the wet clothes, it makes me willing to die inside you … …
Yun Zong: (struggling, gasping, angry) What nonsense! Shut up! You shut up…!
【Qin Ko Zen unties Yun Zong’s belt and clothes, while kissing Yun Zong, water splashes everywhere, YZ desperately tries to turn his head away to avoid the kisses; they fall onto his cheek. Cold hands rip open his robe and brazenly wanders in, stroking his thin waist, continuously stroking YZ’s skin】
Qin Ko Zen: (whispering in heartache) Yun Zong … Yun Zong … These injuries … were left from when you fell from the cliff…
[Yun Zong’s entire body quivers, struggling more violently]
Yun Zong: (twisting away, angry, gasping) What’s that got to do with you!
【Qin Ko Zen suppresses his struggling again, intense water splashes all around them】
34:15
Qin Ko Zen: (gasps, evil smile, low and salaciously) I am your husband, of course it has to do with me.
Qin Ko Zen: (internal monologue, sadness) … Yun Zong … I never thought … I would be so desperate for one person… I’d thought before that the person I was destined to be with was my shixiong … how could I be so stupid!
Yun Zong: (Angry) Qin Ko Zen! You, you’re shameless!
Qin Ko Zen: (rogue laughter) Shameless? Hahaha, well scolded! Today, I will follow Shangjun’s words and fully abide by the word ‘shameless’.
Qin Ko Zen: (internal monologue) Su Yishui … really wanted my life … just as he did before, he’s still the same way now. What he wants, always, is domination of the martial world…
[Qin Ko Zen fiercely kisses Yun Zong once more, his tongue invading in to seek everything he possessed.]
[He’d suddenly realized that the memories he most coveted, most reminisced about were not those days with his shixiong anymore but instead those few days Yun Zong had spent with him.
Before Yun Zong had realized the truth about his deception. That indifferent expression that hid a heart of gentleness. Those days when he pretended to have amnesia and stayed peacefully at his side…gave him an endless sense of satisfaction.]
Yun Zong: (While being kissed he tries to close his lips but ends up coughing in the unsuccessful attempt.)
[With one tug, Qin Ko Zen pulled away the rest of Yun Zong’s remaining attire, Yun Zong struggles but still doesn’t succeed; the fierce water splashes around them]
Qin Ko Zen: (internal monologue) I realized it too late … originally I had his true heart in my grasp… yet then destroyed it with the same hand … Yun Zong…
36:02
Yun Zong: (struggling, panting) … stop right now … stop! Don’t think of ruining me again –
Qin Ko Zen: (Raining kisses like drops of rain) [His hands wander down from Yun Zong’s waist, grasping his vital part] How could I be willing to hurt Shangjun again? As the saying goes, one night as a couple, a hundred days of graciousness. Right now I don’t ask for grace, just the continuation of our fate once more – is Shangjun unwilling?
Qin Ko Zen: (internal monologue) It was like one big dream… now that I’ve woken up, I just want to be able to stay by Yun Zong’s side … I’d be content even if he hates me…
Qin Ko Zen: Shangjun did not answer, then this one will take that as your consent ~ (evil smile) [Stroking YZ’s vital part] This place of Shangjun’s right now is very interesting…
Yun Zong: (While being held, his breaths and sounds gradually becomes those of enjoyment) No—
[Qin Ko Zen’s breathes heavily himself. Yun Zong couldn’t help the moans that escape his lips; water splashes heavily because of his struggles]
37:10
[He can feel his own lower half getting hotter and hotter, YZ had just barely managed to gain back some of his power through careful training during these past days. If he was to once again be forced like before, then this time he might really lose all of his skillset in their entirety. His life’s work…]
Yun Zong: (internal monologue, full of anger, shame, despair) Qin Ko Zen plans to reenact his past actions. If I have to suffer this same sinful situation all my life, it would be better if I just died in peace! [Inhales sharply and tries to bite his own tongue*]
[This is a suicide attempt because principle is that there is a pivotal meridian line that runs through the tongue that is connected to all other meridian lines in your body.]
[Qin Ko Zen quickly reaches in and the bite hits his finger instead. QKZ’s blood leaks out from Yun Zong’s mouth but he doesn’t feel any pain.]
Qin Ko Zen: (Angry and crazed) What are you doing?! Biting so hard!!! Do you really want to bite your tongue off?!
37:35
[Grasps Yun Zun’s shoulder with his free hand, water splashes]
Qin Ko Zen: (Crazy Roar) What ‘Clear Heart Tactics’ skill … you’re forbidden to practice it anymore! Not being emotional or lustful … I intentionally just want you to be lustful! I want you to be entangled with me until you die! You are not allowed to go back to Qing Feng Guan, not allowed to be Yun Shangjun! Temple Lord Yun!
Yun Zong: (weak toned, but resolute) Even if I die, don’t think you’ll violate me again…
37:58
Qin Ko Zen: (Eyes reddened, angry, laughing evily) Rather die than submit huh … Ha ha, what if there was a way to keep you consciously willing to stay at my side?
Yun Zong: (Furious) You! ——
[Qin Ko Zen jabs Yun Zong’s immobilization pressure point]
Qin Ko Zen: I almost forgot that there is a way to make you forget that you are Yun Shangjun. Weren’t you calling yourself Li Mohuai? Then, just be your Li Mohuai. [Qin holds YZ and carries him across the water, both people dripping from head to toe] (laughs) As for Yun Shangjun, Temple Lord Yun, just let him disappear. The emperor sent him to Heyang Mountain Villa and then vanished. Humph, He Lanyu, Su Yishui, I’d like to see how both of you can afford the big crime of murdering Yun Shangjun.
[Gives Yun Zong his outer clothes, picks up the human skin mask and pastes it back on Yun Zong’s face before once more cradling Yun Zong and walking with him up the shore]
[The sound of the wind blowing through the branches, the sound of water flowing away gradually decreases]
Qin Ko Zen: Come out.
[Several figures come out of the shadows and kneels silently before him]
Subordinate 1/2/3/4: Master.
Qin Ko Zen: Kill Lin San on sight and rescue the remaining brothers.
Subordinate 1/2/3/4 : Yes. 【Leaving】
【Qin Ko Zen swishes sleeves to the lower level subordinates】
Qin Ko Zen: You guys can also go, but still follow in the dark without revealing your whereabouts without my command.
[Everyone walks away quietly]
[Manservant lead the carriage to them]
Servant: Master, where should I go next?
Qin Ko Zen: Divert southbound. [Qin Ko Zen hugging Yun Zong in the carriage] Go to Yuquan Palace.
Servant: But according to the time agreed with the prince … I am afraid that this trip will delay…
Qin Ko Zen: He has been waiting for so many years, does he still care waiting for a few more days? Is he your master or me?
Servant: (anxious) Subordinate is wrong.
[Qin Ko Zen puts down the curtain of the carriage]
Qin Ko Zen: Let’s go.
[The carriage drives off, the hissing of the horses sound, the cry of the servants]
【Into ED 】
—The Fourth Issue of Red Dust Road END —
Definitely-Not-Embarrassed's Chinese Translations 
QKZ Deceit Level: 100.
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