SCRIPT HIGHLIGHTS
Authors: Zhao Rui-Yong, Zhou Su
Submitted by Bihailan, in Chinese
Source: Wu Jing Sina Fan Club
By courtesy of: Martial Arts Movies and TV Series – Wu Jing
Chapter 3
Like a Lotus Born from the Mud
Why is it that the road to God is so narrow? Some even say it is like a razor's edge, so sharp and so difficult to walk on. It is because the road and the way to it are contradictory to our way of thinking and to our worldly desires and temptations. We have to swim in the ocean but we also have to protect our clothes from getting wet. That's how hard it is. We have to live in this world with all its temptations and struggles, and yet we have to maintain our discipline and purity like the lotus that is born from the mud, but is very pure, very clean, and very fragrant. We have to become saints in hell. ~ Supreme Master Ching Hai
9. Kangxi's Chamber
Emperor Kangxi, inflicted by illness, lies on the bed. He inspects Hongli, who is writing composition, with a complex look.
Hongli inches forward, ”Grandfather Emperor, are you getting better?”
Kangxi doesn't reply him directly, and instead asks, “Hongli, you words are full of Grandpa's Imperial Edicts and Discourses. Your father must have especially instructed you to study and memorise them, so that you can show off in front of me, pander to me?”
With innocence and naivety, Hongli says, “Well, you are only half correct.”
Kangxi smiles, “Huh? What did Grandpa say wrong?”
“Father did told me to learn them by rote, as a form of respect to Emperor Grandfather,” Hongli replies, “However, he did not tell me to show off to you.”
Kangxi asks again, “In that case, have you also studied other books well and are able to recite them?”
With aplomb, he puts down his brush, “As you wish, go ahead.”
Kangxi takes out a book from his bedside and turns to a certain page.
“Which passage?”
“See it yourself.”
“Love for Lotus, written by Zhou Dun-Yi,” Hongli receives the book from Kangxi.
Kangxi wishes to test him, “Eh?”
Hongli stands up straight, returns the book to Kangxi and start reciting, “Flowers of land and sea. There are those who likes Chrysanthemum and those who adores Peony. Yet I loves only Lotus for it's uncontaminated by the muddy water from which it grows, the Gentleman of Flowers.”
“Fantastic!” Kangxi is very satisfied, “And do you like chrysanthemum, peony or lotus most?”
Hongli throws the question back instead, “Emperor Grandpa prefers lotus, peony or chrysanthemum?”
Kangxi says, “Isn't there a saying, Peony, The Nobility of Flowers, Ruler of Households, How noble? Naturally, I love peony.”
“Why doesn't an emperor like lotus?” Hongli argues, getting a mite agitated,” She is upright, fragrant and pure. She grows out of muddy waters but is not contaminated. She is the gentleman among all flowers. Shouldn't a ruler be like her?”
Kangxi appears to be particularly calm, “He can never be like that! A ruler, because he is a ruler, he can't be a gentlemanly person.”
“Why? A ruler of the country, yet is not a gentleman?
“An career of an emperor is all encompassing and full of ups and downs. His chariots have to leave tracks of blood as they move forward, his command encompasses cries of the world,” as Kangxi speaks, he becomes frantic, “His cleaver has to split apart fog of underhand means, the ship he rides on has to stay on the top of muddy waves, the broad-mind of his has to withstand trials of kindness and evil. All the decisions he makes, his happiness, anger, sadness, are inextricably linked to for very important words ...
Hongli listens with total rapture.
Kangxi: “ (The Empire is of More Importance).”
Hongli ponders over it deeply.
With a deep sigh, Kangxi continues, “ ... He, he is no longer himself. He is already being manipulated by hand of fate! ... The blood soaked heart of an emperor is so much like the red-inflamed petals of peony, eh?”
Hongli rubs his chest unconsciously.
Kangxi stares at Hongli's gesture, “What's the matter with you?”
Hongli tries to cover up, “Nothing, Emperor Grandpa.”
“This is also Grandpa's Imperial Edict. Have you remembered it?”
Hongli lapses into morose silence.
Kangxi is a little disappointed, “Pure like lotus, this is not the flower the imperial family should adore... ...Unwilling to remember it?”
“No, I have taken note of it.”
...
16. Kangxi's Chamber
Kangxi with his eyes shut, lies calmly on the bed. Hongli stays silently by the bed. The princes and their families are crying outside the imperial chamber, “Emperor Father, Emperor Father! Let us go in, Emperor Father.”
Kangxi opens his eyes slightly, looking at Hongli.
Hongli asks softly, “Emperor Grandpa, you've woken up?”
Suddenly, a group of crowd outside shouts, “Emperor Father, make Eighth Brother the heir to your throne. He is smart, saintly and has the bearing of a ruler!”
Another another group shouts, “Emperor Father, pass your throne to Fourteenth Brother. Only then can Manchurian rule lasts forever.”
The fur flies furiously between the two camp: Eighth Brother! Fourteenth Brother!
Zhang Tingyu raises his voice, “Princes, please be quiet. The emperor is sick but you shouldn't coerce him to give up the throne.”
In a kind manner, Kangxi asks Hongli, “Hongli, tell me, what is Grandpa thinking of right now?”
Hongli replies without delay, “Emperor Grandpa is looking forward to Fourteenth Uncle's return.”
“What a bright Hongli.”
“What a great Emperor Grandpa.”
Kangxi asks again, “Tell me, among my many sons, whom should I make the crown prince? Tell me, who do you like most?”
“Don't crown anyone, Hongli loves Emperor Grandpa most,” says Hongli, without any thinking.
“What if it is necessary to crown a prince?”
“Really have to crown a prince?”
“Aye.”
“If it cannot be avoided, I would say Fourteenth Uncle,” Hongli voices out his view forthrightly.
Kangxi enquires again, “Ever thought of crowning your father?”
“No. I have never thought of him. It's true.”
“Why not?”
Hongli laughs, “Hahaha. I don't wish to speak ill of my father.”
“But Emperor Grandpa is the father of your father.” Kangxi also laughs.
“Do I really have to say it?”
“Yes.”
Finally, Hongli explains, “When I am with him, I am lifeless. When I am with Emperor Grandpa, I am full of energy. Emperor Grandpa is erudite, kind, charming, fl ...”
“Pardon?”
Hongli, “I won't speak any further.”
Kangxi pretends to look stern, “Tell me, fl... what?”
Hongli, “Flirtatious.”
Kangxi laughs.
Hongli begins to explain, “King Qin pales in comparison with you, while Emperors of Tang and Song Dynasties are not much of lady-killers as you are. Emperor Grandpa is a gentleman among the rulers of all centuries. How is it?”
“Gentleman? You have talked about lotus yet again. Seems like our debate has yet to end.” Kangxi sits up, “Alright, in future, when you become the emperor, I hope you can be like the lotus, growing out of muddy waters without being contaminated. Eh? A true gentleman, leaving behind a good name for posterity. Eh? ... ... Difficult, unconvinced? ... ...”
Hongli tries his best to hide his joy, “Emperor Grandpa, you must be thirsty. Have a sip of ginseng soup.”
19. The Garden outside Kangxi's Chamber
The princes and grandsons, their concubines who are kneeling on the floor, looks at the old eunuch.
The old eunuch reads out, “By Imperial Decree, Fourth Prince is to see the Emperor.”
“Zha!” Yongzheng gets up and rushes into Kangxi's Chamber.
All the other princes and their wives murmur among themselves, “Why did he summon only Fourth Brother?”
“I have been kneeling here for half a day. He arrives for just a while only, yet he is the only one who gets to go in?”
20. Kangxi's Chamber
Kangxi glances at Yongzheng as he approaches. Yongzheng kneels sadly in front of Emperor Father, ”Emperor Father! Emperor Father!... ...”
...
Kangxi closes his eyes, “Fourth Prince, it's time to crown the price. I am thinking of letting your Fourteenth Brother ascend the throne...”
On hearing this, Yongzheng sweats heavily.
...
Kangxi closes his eyes, thinking deeply. Yongzheng's eyes emit a vengeful look. Hongli senses his father's murderous air. Kangxi opens his eyes again. Yongzheng's face turns pale due to disappointment. Hongli stares at his father. Kangxi peers at the “sickly” Yongzheng and then at the aristocratic Hongli, his mouth showing a very minor smile that is not easily noticed.
However, Yongzheng has perceived Kangxi's smile. Yongzheng contains his ecstasy of the success of the brainchild which he has been meticulously hatching for years; yet Kangxi fails not notice it. Yongzheng has triumphed over his Emperor Father.
Suddenly, Kangxi says, “I have changed my mind ... I've decided to let you be my successor to the throne ...”
Yongzheng pretends to be stopped dead in his tracks, “Emperor Father, my body... ... cannot ...”
Hongli looks at his father, as if looking at a stranger.
“You're a stable person, are able to withstand hardships ... do not hanker after status, do not delight in power struggle, and are a devout Buddhist who does kind deeds... ...”
“However, I am not impressed by your temper.”
“Yongzheng is shocked.
Finally, Kangxi says, “I will still pass the throne to you. You must agree to two conditions... ...”
Yongzheng is touched, “Emperor Father! ... ...”
Kangxi continues, “Firstly, prevent the Imperial Families from plotting against each other and this of course refers first to you. Do not be violent. The throne can easily make one a kind-hearted person, but can also easily make one an extremely cruel person... ... Can you bear it in mind?”
Hongli listens attentively.
Yongzheng appears to be honest, “Okay, Emperor Father.”
Kangxi, “Secondly, once you have ascended the throne, you will proclaim Hongli the crown prince. Got it?”
Yongzheng is moved to tears and looks at Hongli.
Breaking down into tears, Hongli lunges into Kangxi's embrace, “Emperor Grandpa! Emperor Grandpa!”
Kangxi hugs his grandson, “The person I have chosen is your son... I don't pin much hopes on you!”
Yongzheng feels as if he has been given a real, tight slap squarely in his face.
”I have high hopes on Hongli. Compared to all of you, he is more like his Emperor Grandpa.” Kangxi doesn't disguise the fact that he thinks the world of Hongli.
Hongli yells: “Emperor Grandpa!”
Kangxi, in great joy, says: “A dynasty of abundance and peace. After Kangxi, comes Hongli. Hongli ...”
Hongli, “Emperor Grandpa!”
“You like the pure lotus that grow out of muddy water? You simply love it, eh?” says Kangxi benignly.
Hongli is moved, “Aye.”
Kangxi blinks and smiles at Hongli and Hongli reciprocates him. Such is the chemistry between the grandfather and the grandson, the two generations of emperor.
Kangxi issues an order, “Summon Zhang Ting Yu, Long Ke Duo and all the princes here.”
Old eunuch, “Zha!”
Chapter 7
19. Outside The Palace Door
Raining cats and dogs. The Imperial Guards, who are armed with sabres, raise the torches as they guide the horse-drawn carriage ferrying Crown Prince Hongli to the door.
Inside the carriage.
Zhao Hui consoles, “Your Highness, please do not believe their nonsense. How could you be Great Elder, Chen Yuan Long’s son? Why would His Majesty swop the babies? This is ludicrous.”
Hongli, letting his body sway along with the rocking carriage, says nothing. But his eyes are telling us, he is in deep reflection.
“They’ve admitted to defamation, Your Highness, why are you still worried?”
A loud roar of thunder. The lightning pierces through the curtain, flashes on Hongli’s face. He is musing over Yongheng’s words,” You’re too benevolent, to the extent of not being like a descendant of Aixin Jueluo... ...”
Hongli suddenly tells Zhao Hui, “Zhao Hui, find someone from the opera tomorrow, borrow a costume of Han ethnic and send it into the palace.”
Zhao Hui is puzzled.
20. Empress Niuhu Lushi, Gardening Hall.
...
Hongli, wearing Han clothing, steps into the hall, “My respects to Empress Mother.”
Niuhu Lushi is astounded. Hongli stares nervously at her. Niuhu Lushi looks at him in a daze. All of sudden, she bangs on the table and stands up, “Hongli, have you gone mad? Why did you put on Han clothing out of the blue? Have you forgotten you're a Manchurian?”
Hongli smiles innocently.
Niuhu Lushi, in a most earnest tone, says, “Quick, take them off. What if the Courtiers see you dressed in this manner?”
Hongli pretending to be like a babe in the woods, “Empress Mother, this is but a small matter. I went to the theatre... ...”
Niuhu Lushi utters, “As the crown prince, you shouldn't be so frivolous.”
Hongli smiles, “The Han clothing looked so different, so inviting. So I wanted to borrow a set to put on, to let you see if I look like a Han. Quick, tell me.”
The palace maids hesitate.
A little palace maid enters the room, clapping her hands in excitement, she exclaims “Indeed, Your Highness resembles a Han!”
Without delay, Niuhu Lushi gives her a tight slap. Hongli gives Niuhu Lushi a cold glance.
Niuhu Lushi harshly says, “What are you standing there for. Get out!”
Hongli acts like a happy kid, “Empress Mother, simmer down. I will remove them right away.”
Hongli disrobes, Niuhu Lushi snatches the Han clothing, walks to the doorway and throws them out, “Qiu-er, burn the clothes.”
Qiu-er replies, “Yes, Her Majesty,” and incinerate them.
Hongli walks out, steals a sweeping glance at the Han clothes and hurriedly heads towards Yuedong Doorway. He walks to Zhao Hui's side and stops. He looks at the clothes being burned to ashes. The howling wind causes the ashes to flutter about in the air.
Chapter 8
That's why most people's prayers won't come true, because they put no energy into it. They just talk with their mouths or they think very fleetingly with their weak, feeble energy. Therefore, their thoughts won't come true; their prayers won't come true. They don't even have enough energy and supportive spirit to pray. That's not a true prayer. The true prayer always comes true. Because if there's energy in it, it will attract the object of their desire. If there are no attracting energies, nothing comes. If you put two pieces of thing together, one a magnet and the other a piece of wood which you painted to look like a magnet, the attracting power of both pieces are not the same. Only the true magnet attracts iron or metal. The other one would never attract anything. It doesn't matter how long you put it there, and it doesn't matter how much it looks like a piece of magnet. Understand?
Therefore, when you, the practitioners of the Quan Yin Method, pray, it happens, because you have power. Now you even have the power to pray for what you want. You didn't have it before. You didn't know what prayer truly meant. You just said, “Oh! God, give me this. Oh, God, give me that.” Do you think God is so cheap? (Laughter) Even a piece of pin will not be attracted to a piece of wood or ordinary iron. How would God be attracted to you, to your “blah, blah” nonsense?! Understand? And you don't even mean what you say, and don't even believe in what you pray. So prayers begin after you know a Master, because the Master awakens in you, the prayer power, the power to pray, the power to think, the power to use your own energy to make things come true. ~ Excerpted Start With Nirvana And End Up On Earth by Supreme Master Ching Hai
5. Wu Ying Hall
On the wall are the paintings of past Manchurian Emperors.
Kneeling piously in front of the ancestral altar, Yongzheng prays: “Oh, Imperial Ancestors, I dare not pull wool over your spiritual eyes. Hongli is not the descendant of Aixin Jueluo, even I am in a flutter. The Imperial Physician diagnosed Niugu Lushi was carrying a male child while Chen Yuan Long's wife was carrying a female child.
“It was pouring torrentially and the thunder was roaring when they went into labour. Segregated by a mere wall, yet the gender of the babies was in wrong order. I have always thought that, the baby next door ought to be our progeny. As such, I arranged for the swop. Should the world be turned topsy-turvy, I should not be held accountable.
Besides, Hongli is gifted and intelligent, and is doted upon by the late Emperor Kangxi. It would be hard to imagine him not belonging to Aixin Jueluo bloodline. When I let him go on plain-clothes inspection circuit, I shall be sending some assassins to shadow him, to protect him, for the pugilists from various sects would want him dead.
O, wise Imperial Ancestors, should Hongli not be Aixin Jueluo's descendant, then you need not bless him. If he is, then you would surely be blessing and protecting him. Let his life and death determine his ancestry. Today, I am entrusting the life of Hongli under your stewardship.”
After crawling out of woodwork in front of the ancestors, Yongzheng sincerely bows thrice facing portraits on the wall.
6. Tai He Court
Hongli and various Courtiers and Ministers are waiting for Yongzheng to arrive to conduct the court session.
Chief Imperial Steward yells, “Here comes His Majesty!”
Yongzheng walks stridently onto the platform towards the Imperial Dragon Seat.
All the Courtiers and Ministers kneel down, “Long live Your Majesty.”
Yongzheng, sitting on the Imperial Dragon Seat, says, “Rise.”
All Court Officials, “Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Owing to yesterday's happenings, Hongli stares at Yongzheng, with an artfulness in his mind.
Yongzheng speaks, “Crown Prince Hongli!”
Hongli, affecting affection, goes on his knees, “Yes, Your Majesty?”
“The crown prince is coming of age. Staying in the palace, managing its affairs would not help in training you, grooming your capability.” Yongzheng, with an imperious and solemn air, begins his speech.
“The late Emperors had, on many occasions, went on inspection tours, in order to better understand the life and hardships of the people, their wishes, and also to find out what the magistrates and officials in various provinces were doing, whether they were loyal to the Imperial Court, whether they worked for the welfare of the people, whether they were upright and abided by the law. The late Emperors had personally led troops to fight invaders in the frontiers. It's on the account of the Ancestor Emperors' diligence that the Great Qing Empire can enjoy peace and prosperity, striking awe in all directions.
As I am tied up by state affairs, I am hardly able to go on field inspections. I am so ashamed to face the ancestors! Thus, I shall let Crown Prince go on undercover inspection. This will also afford Crown Prince a chance to build up his career, to let all the officials, all the commoners see if my son, is worthy of being the Crown Prince ...”
A thought suddenly flashes across Hongli's mind. However, forthwith, he feigns exceptional gaiety.
Yongzheng, “Crown Prince Hongli, do not let down your Emperor Grandfather's and my hopes, as well as that of the Great Manchurian Dynasty.”
With firmness, Hongli replies, “I shall bear it in my mind.”
All Officials reverberates, “Your Majesty is sagacious! Your Majesty is sagacious!”
Yongzheng stands up, walks to the edge of the platform and embraces Hongli.
Hongli, pretending that there are ants in his pants, enquires eagerly, “Emperor Father, may I know whom would you send to accompany me?”
“Governor-General, Li Wei ,” calls Yongzheng.
“Yes, Sire,” Li Wei steps out.
“I summon you back to the capital so that you may go with Crown Prince to the Southern Regions. Let Hangzhou, the province under your charge, be the boundary of your travel.”
Li Wei, “Zha!”
“Hongli, you may pick an Imperial Guard to leave the capital with you.”
Hongli, “Zha!”
Yongzheng asks Li Wei, “Do you have anything else to report? Bring it up in the presence of all the Courtiers.”
Li Wei pauses and then speaks, “I have one matter to report: When Crown Prince is heading south on inspection tour, it is inevitable for him to run into corrupt officials. I beseech Your Majesty to bestow Precious Sword of Shangfang upon him, so that he has the power to decapitate anyone as he deems fit and submits a report later.”
Yongzheng is startled. He scrutinises Li Wei menacingly, then, turning into laughter, he says, “I shall grant you your wish. Chief Imperial Steward, issue Hongli with Precious Sword of Shangfang.”
Chief Imperial Steward, “Zha!”
The Court Officials murmur among themselves, filling the entire Imperial Court with buzzing sounds.
Imperial Chief Steward, “Crown Prince, receive the sword.”
Hongli dashes onto the platform, kneels in front of Yongzheng, “Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Yongzheng hands over the sword, “You must not kill the innocents with this sword.”
Hongli, “Your Son obeys your edict!”
Hongli takes Precious Sword of Shangfang and leaves the platform in high spirits.
A Court Official speaks, “Your Majesty, it's not quite right for the Crown Prince to have only one Imperial Guard with him on his inspection travel. What if something bad happens? I dare not speak any deeper.”
Many of the Court Officials add, “Your Majesty, please reconsider your decision. The safety of the Crown Prince is related the the safety of the Imperial Court. Your Majesty, please ponder carefully.”
Yongzheng thunders in exasperation, “Is it so serious? Hongli, tell us, how many people should you be bringing along?”
Hongli speaks, “One Imperial Guard is sufficient. Should any mishap happens to me, it means I am not worthy of the post of Crown Prince. The well-being of the Imperial Family is decided by Heaven. Should I return to the capital safely, it's on the account of the blessings of Aixin Jueluo Ancestors and the fortune of the Emperor. Fret not, Your Majesty and all Court Officials.”
All the Officials applaud, “Excellent! Excellent!”
Yongzheng speaks, “Excellent. What an excellent Hongli. Such lofty ambition. I can put my mind at ease now.”
Imperial Chief Steward, “Court dismissed.”
7. Hongli's Study
Hongli, caressing the Shangfang Precious Sword chirpily, talks to Zhao Hui, “This is what Governor-General Li Wei asks to be given to me. Hahaha. I now possess Precious Sword of Shangfang. I now possess Precious Sword of Shangfang. I have the right to behead anyone without having to seek permission beforehand. I can now get rid of all the corrupt officials and magistrates, saving the people from turmoil of depravity. Zhao Hui, who dares not fear you and me, eh?”
Hongli gleefully unsheathes the sword and begins brandishing it like an ordinary weapon.
Zhao Hui bites his nails, “The drunkard's intention lies not on the wine. Waving the sword in Xiang Village... ...”
”His aim is Pei Gong?”
”That's right. The Emperor instructs you to leave the palace, so that he can kill with borrowed sabre! “ Zhao Hui points out his worries, “Think about it, there are countless anti-Manchurian factions, swordsmen among the pugilistic fraternity. They will vent all their abomination of the Emperor and the Imperial Court on you.”
Hongli appears to be not the least daunted, “Huh? Really?”
Zhao Hui laments, “It's tantamount to a goat entering the tiger's mouth, a rabbit falling into the snake's lair - walking right into their trap.”
”Hahaha, and be their expensive, top-of-the-line, single-course dinner, eh?” says Hongli with a wry sense of humour.
”Moreover, among the Imperial Family, the various princes, or maybe your own brother Hong Zhou wouldn't be able to sit quietly in their studies. They wouldn't be so kind as to let go of the eagle on seeing the rabbit, to let slip such a golden opportunity to harm you.”
”Let them come. Whoever wishes to kill me, come over, all of them.” says Hongli, as cool as a cucumber.
With a swoosh, he slashes the curtain. The tawny curtain drops onto the floor. Zhao Hui is still on tenterhooks.
Chapter 9
5. Haining
August. Mid Autumn Festival. Flower Lanterns are being hung on every household. Crowds who are admiring the lanterns come flooding in. The various troupes are are performing music, walking on stilts, doing Lion Dance and Dragon Dance.
Hongli and Zhao Hui dismount from the horses and walk on the streets, peering around at the jubilant atmosphere of hubbub.
More often than not, there are many people who hail Hongli on seeing him, “Mr Chen, you're back?” “It's been a long time since we last met, Mr Chen. Where have you been?” “Mr Chen!” “Oh, it's Mr Chen!”
Initially, Hongli is rather uneasy, but later he replies with spontaneity, “Aye!” “Greetings!”
A servant from Chen Residence approaches him with excitement, “Sir, You're back. We missed you so.”
Hongli arbitrarily replies, “Yeah, I'm back. How do you do?”
That servant says, “Fine. Have fun for a while. I shall rush back to inform Old Master.”
Hongli, “Aye. Okay.”
...
14. Chen Residence, Gardening Hall
Elder Chen Yuan Long sits alone tranquilly, waiting for his son's return. His eyes are closed, causing people to feel his awe amidst serenity, mystery amid quietness.
Then he hears his servant saying “Young master has reached home.”
”Old master is waiting for you in the hall.”
Hongli, with some hesitation, take a few steps towards the Gardening Hall. Zhao Hui follows. Hongli stops, looks at the old man in the hall with strong yearning and mulls over how he should face him. Elder Chen opens his eyes gradually and see two shadowy figures.
Zhao Hui steps forward and exchanges glances with Hongli. He whispers, “Try it, call him father.”
Hongli nods his head. Once they have made up their mind, they enter the Gardening Hall with no more trepidation.
Unexpectedly, Elder Chen stands up and kneels in front of Hongli, “Your Old Minister, Chen Yuan Long, pay his respects to Your Highness, the Crown Prince.”
Hongli, floored by Chen Yuan Long's response, is momentarily at a loss for words.
Zhao Hui says cunningly, “Old master, you must have been mistaken. He is your son, it's Young Master Chen.”
Hongli shouts, “Your son pays his respects to Father, “ and is about to kneel down... ...
”Hold it, Your Highness. Please don't play such a lark on Your Old Minister.” Chen Yuan Long interposes immediately.
Hongli has no choice but to straighten his half-bent knees and makes an eye contact helplessly with Zhao Hui, sighing secretly.
Chen Yuan Long says, “Your Old Minister's eyesight may be failing and is hard of hearing, but I can sense that you're the Crown Prince and not my son, Bang Guo.”
Hongli feels so incapacitated and touched as he helps Chen Yuan Long up, “Elder Chen, please dispense with the formalities.”
Chen Yuan Long gets up shakily, “Thanks and long live Your Highness!”
Hongli helps Chen Yuan Long to the seat.
”Your Highness, please have a seat too.” says Chen Yuan Long respectfully, “And this lord too, please sit.”
Zhao Hui replies, “Thanks, Elder Chen.”
The maid enters with a tray carrying three cups of tea, “Old master, please have some tea.”
Chen Yuan Long takes a cup of tea and serves it to Hongli, “Have some tea.”
Hongli quickly gets up, receives the teacup, and puts it on the table. Being unsure of how to show his gratitude, he uses the tip of his thumb to tap thrice on the table in the manner of “phoenix nodding its head” to say thanks.
The maid looks puzzled. Chen Yuan Long looks at the maid, “Put down the cups of tea and you may take your leave.”
The maid obeys, places a cup of tea for Chen Yuan Long and Zhao Hui, and goes out. Overwhelmed with curiosity, she halts by the windows and listens secretly...
Hongli deferentially articulates, “Elder Chen, you have served and helped two generations of Emperors in state affairs, and command such great respect. I have since young admired you greatly. It's my great fortune to be able to meet you.”
Chen Yuan Long half closes his eyes, “Your Highness, the Crown Prince, the purpose of your arrival in Haining...”
The maid who is listening outside, “Your Highness, the Crown Prince?”
And then Chen Yuan Long's voice is heard again, “... you're on Imperial Edict to go on field inspection?”
After some thinking, the maid leaves in a hurry.
17. Chen Residence, Gardening Hall
Chen Yuan Long finally manages to contain his inner emotions, and half closes his eyes again, “Awwww, my son, Chen Bang-Guo, indeed looks a little like Your Highness. How can it be so fortuitous? Had I not heard your steps, I would have mistaken you for Bang-Guo.”
Hongli and Zhao Hui exchange glances with each other.
Zhao Hui, “Isn't it even more of a tale of cock and bull that His Highness, the Crown Prince, has never met Elder Chen before, yet you managed to identify that it is the Crown Prince who is here, just by listening to the footsteps?”
Chen Yuan Long chortles, “A good question, indeed! An excellent question!”
Hongli, with some degree with gratification, enterprises, “Yeah, yeah. I am unable to find any answers to it after some deep pondering. Elder Chen, is there any mysterious artifice to it?”
”Mysterious artifice? Hahaha. How can there be no mysterious artifice?” Chen Yuan Long purposely tries to sound arcane, “If I am without such a second nature, how could I have been an important minister for two generations of Manchurian Dynasty, eh? You're still so young, when you're old, you'll understand. Even old trees can turn into spirits, let alone a human being? Your Highness, don't you agree?”
Hongli gropes for the right words, “Right, Elder Chen's wisdom far transcends everyone. You're able to miraculously predict with such uncanny accuracy, I hold you in great esteem.”
Chen Yuan Long says humbly, “Certainly, certainly, I am lagging far behind you, the young people.”
”Elder Chen, I heard that you also have a daughter who was born in Year 50 of Kangxi Reign. Even more coincidentally, she was born at the same hour and day as I.” Hongli wrinkles his brow and changes the topic abruptly, “On that night when I was born, the two Residences set off fireworks simultaneously, and the explosions went off continuously, shaking half the entire capital. Wasn't it so, Elder Chen?”
Chen Yuan Long, with his eyes half-closed, seems to hark back, “Yes, yes, indeed. Chen Residence and your Prince Yong Residence were separated by a mere wall. There was a side door joining us together. The people from Prince Yong Residence shouted, to what has Lady Chen given birth? Is it a daughter? The other side replied, What about your Residence, is it a little prince? Congratulations! Congratulations to you too! When you were born, it quaked half the entire capital. It was so auspicious!”
Hongli and Zhao Hui, with a sinking feeling, gaze at the sly, old fox, Chen Yuan Long.
Chen Yuan Long seems to be on cloud nine, “Wasn't it a joyous occasion? Your father has become today's Emperor and you are the Crown Prince. And as his old neighbour, I also gained some glamour on his account. The Emperor issued an Imperial Decree, exempting taxation for ten years. Basking in the grace of the Emperor, basking in the grace of the Emperor.”
Hongli meditates upon how to make him tell the truth. Chen Yuan Long closes his eyes after finishing his speech, resting comfortably on the chair. Zhao Hui looks helplessly at Hongli. Hongli is full of anxiety and impatience and takes a gulp of the tea.
Hongli suddenly laughs, “Elder Chen, Elder Chen!”
Chen Yuan Long opens his eyes slightly, “I am listening. Go on, Your Highness.”
”During this incognito inspection tour, I've come specially to your house, so that I can meet the missy who was born at the same hour, day, month and year as Hongli.” says Hongli without any haste, “Since the olden days until now, such coincidental event happens only once in a blue moon. 'Heard that on that night, the moon was rising high up the clear, blue sky, and it was breezy. Then, abruptly, the rain came pouring and the thunder clapped. It was so puzzling. I have always been thinking, if at that time... ...suppose the Baby-Delivering Bodhisattva was clouded by the rain, alarmed by the thunder, or was perhaps a little not circumspect, went to the wrong door, and sent Hongli over to Chen Residence instead, would Hongli not have become your son? And would Elder Chen's daughter not have become Prince Yong Residence's princess?”
Zhao Hui glances gleefully at Chen Yuan Long, thinking that he has been stumped.
Chen Yuan Long smiles and speaks in a little obfuscating manner, “... ... She is Baby-Delivering Bodhisattva, is a Bodhisattva, Bodhisattva was wrong ... ...”
Hongli, “Eh?”
With sarcasm, Chen Yuan Long says,” How could it be erroneous? A Bodhisattva is a Bodhisattva after all!”
The disappointment of Hongli and Zhao Hui is clearly imprinted on their faces. Chen Yuan Long shuts his eyes, appearing to be dozing off.
Hongli stays the course, “Aye, aye. Right, right, right. How could Bodhisattva make any mistake? Elder Chen, since I am here, could you grant me an audience with your daughter? After I have seen her, I would return by night to Hangzhou immediately.”
Slowly, Chen Yuan Long opens his eyes, “Is this His Majesty's wish?”
Hongli shakes his head, “No, not really. It's my own intention.”
Chen Yuan Long keeps his eyes half-shut again, “Your Highness is on undercover field inspection. You don't ask about agrarian problems, political affairs, whether the magistrates are just or dishonest, about tyrannical lords, about floods and taxation, about the well-being of the folks. You've neglected everything. You came all the way to Haining, just to ask me about my daughter?”
Hongli and Zhao Hui are left out in the cold.
Hongli gets up urgently, “Hongli shall take heed your admonition. It was just a random thought and I did not have any other intentions. I beg for your forgiveness.”
Unexpectedly, Chen Yuan Long begins snoring. Hongli and Zhao Hui stare at each other blankly.
Hongli, “Elder Chen, Chen Chen!”
Zhao Hui shakes his head and says softly, “Let's go.”
Hongli, “Elder Chen, I dare not impose upon you any further. Farewell.”
The slippery eel, Chen Yuan Long, continues to snore. Hongli sighs and, along with Zhao Hui, leaves quietly. Just when they step out of the threshold, they hear a beaming voice from Lady Chen, “Your Highness, the Crown Prince, is it you who are here?”
Chen Yuan Long is startled and snores no more.
Hongli, under the light of the lanterns, see Lady Chen rushing towards them with bells on. Lady Chen frantically hugs Hongli, “Your Highness, Your Highness!”
Hongli is moved, “Old Madam!”
Lady Chen is filled with both happiness and sorrow, “Lift the lanterns higher, let me examine the Crown Prince carefully.”
The maids lift the lanterns higher up.
Chen Yuan Long, who is inside the gardening hall, and shams a few coughs, fearing that Lady Chen may stir up trouble.
18. Chen Residence, Outside the Gardening Hall
Hongli and Lady Chen look at each other with deep passion. There are tears in Lady Chen's eyes. There are tears in Hongli's eyes.
Lady Chen, as if being choked, says, “Yes, Yes, it's the Crown Prince who is here to see me, to see me!”
Hongli uncontrollably kneels down, “Hongli pays his respects to Lady Chen.”
Lady Chen shakily holds him up, “This, this, how could I bear such courtesy? Get up, get up...”
Hongli prostrates himself before Lady Chen.
Lady Chen helps Hongli up and says in excitement, “You've grown so tall, grown so big already...”
...
22 Chen Residence, Bath Room
The maids proceed successively, pouring buckets of hot water into the wooden bath-tub and then exit.
”Your Highness, please go ahead.”
Hongli enters. Steam rises up above the hot water.
Hongli mutters, “Such family of great warmth! Warmer than what I have imagined to be. I am beginning to blame fate for making fun of me. Why sent me to a place to where I do not belong? As Cao Meng- De said, Roast me in flames.”
He disrobes...
24. Chen Residence, Bath House
Lady Chen raises the curtain, entering quietly. Hongli, sitting in the tub of hot water with his back facing the door, scrubs his body. Lady Chen looks with lovelorn eyes at her son whom she has never seen for twenty years. The ascending steam elicits a dream-like feeling.
Lady Chen's heart weeps, “Son! Why can't your mother acknowledge you? House of Ruling Family, House of Prime Minister, there are some things that can't be compared to that of House of Commoners.” As she is thinking, she ardently calls out, “Son!”
In the wooden bath-tub, Hongli is astounded. Slowly, he turns around, unconsciously putting the towel in front of his chest.
”Lady Chen?”
Lady Chen walks forwards in trembles, “I really wish to bathe you once. I have never given you a bath.”
”Well, well, bathe me.”
Lady Chen is both surprised and elated, “You're really going to let me bathe you, Your Highness?”
Hongli shivers his lips, “Aye.”
Lady Chen inches forward in haste, and takes the wet towel...
The five blood-like moles, in the formation of a hawthorn blossom, on Hongli's chest are exposed to Lady Chen. Lady Chen does not scrub his body. Rather, she gently touches the familiar symbol that belongs only to him and her.
All of sudden, Lady Chen begins to sob loudly.
Hongli holds her swaying body, “Lady Chen, Lady Chen!”
Lady Chen weeps, “Twenty years, twenty years. When it see it, see it, the bulb in my heart lights up, I do not know if it's fortune or misfortune.”
Lady Chen's cries can be heard outside. The two maids are unsettled and vacillate between going or not going in.
15. Chen Residence, Gardening Hall
”Elder Chen, you sound too serious.” Hongli attempts to fish for information, “Tonight is Lantern Festival. But, when I just set foot in Haining, something really odd happened. The people who were viewing the Lanterns were all addressing me as Mr Chen, Mr Bang Guo. Is this young master Bang Guo your son?”
Chen Yuan Long pretends to be surprised, “Oh? This matter? ... ... It's really weird, how could they mistake the Crown Prince for my son?”
Hongli smiles slyly, “Yeah, that's right. It made me so confused. I did not know if I should reply, I felt like being put into a very difficult quagmire. Eventually ...”
That Chen Yuan Long's mouth is shivering, is an indication that he is suppressing his overwhelming excitement and anticipation.
Hongli suddenly speaks in a loud voice, “Eventually, I greeted them back.”
Chen Yuan Long open his eyes widely, gaping at Hongli.
Hongli intentionally shifts a lantern nearer to himself and smiles as he gazes at Chen Yuan Long. An indistinct image of Hongli enters Chen Yuan Long far-sighted eyes. Zhao Hui, reading Hongli's intention, also moves another lantern in front of Hongli.
Hongli jokes, “Elder Chen, look closely, is this Hongli or your son?”
Chen Yuan Long gradually sees clearly that the charming, radiant youth who carries an aristocratic air, is Hongli, and is also his son. Zhao Hui observes Chen Yuan Long with interest, the latter of whom has lost a little of his grip.
17. Chen Residence, Gardening Hall
Chen Yuan Long finally manages to contain his inner emotions, and half closes his eyes again, “Awwww, my son, Chen Bang-Guo, indeed looks a little like Your Highness. How can it be so fortuitous? Had I not heard your steps, I would have mistaken you for Bang-Guo.”
Hongli and Zhao Hui exchange glances with each other.
Zhao Hui, “Isn't it even more of a tale of cock and bull that His Highness, the Crown Prince, has never met Elder Chen before, yet you managed to identify that it is the Crown Prince who is here, just by listening to the footsteps?”
Chen Yuan Long chortles, “A good question, indeed! An excellent question!”
Hongli, with some degree with gratification, enterprises, “Yeah, yeah. I am unable to find any answers to it after some deep pondering. Elder Chen, is there any mysterious artifice to it?”
“Mysterious artifice? Hahaha. How can there be no mysterious artifice?” Chen Yuan Long purposely tries to sound arcane, “If I am without such a second nature, how could I have been an important minister for two generations of Manchurian Dynasty, eh? You're still so young, when you're old, you'll understand. Even old trees can turn into spirits, let alone a human being? Your Highness, don't you agree?”
Hongli gropes for the right words, “Right, Elder Chen's wisdom far transcends everyone. You're able to miraculously predict with such uncanny accuracy, I hold you in great esteem.”
Chen Yuan Long says humbly, “Certainly, certainly, I am lagging far behind you, the young people.”
“Elder Chen, I heard that you also have a daughter who was born in Year 50 of Kangxi Reign. Even more coincidentally, she was born at the same hour and day as I.” Hongli wrinkles his brow and changes the topic abruptly, “On that night when I was born, the two Residences set off fireworks simultaneously, and the explosions went off continuously, shaking half the entire capital. Wasn't it so, Elder Chen?”
Chen Yuan Long, with his eyes half-closed, seems to hark back, “Yes, yes, indeed. Chen Residence and your Prince Yong Residence were separated by a mere wall. There was a side door joining us together. The people from Prince Yong Residence shouted, to what has Lady Chen given birth? Is it a daughter? The other side replied, What about your Residence, is it a little prince? Congratulations! Congratulations to you too! When you were born, it quaked half the entire capital. It was so auspicious!”
Hongli and Zhao Hui, with a sinking feeling, gaze at the sly, old fox, Chen Yuan Long.
Chen Yuan Long seems to be on cloud nine, “Wasn't it a joyous occasion? Your father has become today's Emperor and you are the Crown Prince. And as his old neighbour, I also gained some glamour on his account. The Emperor issued an Imperial Decree, exempting taxation for ten years. Basking in the grace of the Emperor, basking in the grace of the Emperor.”
Hongli meditates upon how to make him tell the truth. Chen Yuan Long closes his eyes after finishing his speech, resting comfortably on the chair. Zhao Hui looks helplessly at Hongli. Hongli is full of anxiety and impatience and takes a gulp of the tea.
Hongli suddenly laughs, “Elder Chen, Elder Chen!”
Chen Yuan Long opens his eyes slightly, “I am listening. Go on, Your Highness.”
“During this incognito inspection tour, I've come specially to your house, so that I can meet the missy who was born at the same hour, day, month and year as Hongli.” says Hongli without any haste, “Since the olden days until now, such coincidental event happens only once in a blue moon. 'Heard that on that night, the moon was rising high up the clear, blue sky, and it was breezy. Then, abruptly, the rain came pouring and the thunder clapped. It was so puzzling. I have always been thinking, if at that time... ...suppose the Baby-Delivering Bodhisattva was clouded by the rain, alarmed by the thunder, or was perhaps a little not circumspect, went to the wrong door, and sent Hongli over to Chen Residence instead, would Hongli not have become your son? And would Elder Chen's daughter not have become Prince Yong Residence's princess?”
Zhao Hui glances gleefully at Chen Yuan Long, thinking that he has been stumped.
Chen Yuan Long smiles and speaks in a little obfuscating manner, “... ... She is Baby-Delivering Bodhisattva, is a Bodhisattva, Bodhisattva was wrong ... ...”
Hongli, “Eh?”
With sarcasm, Chen Yuan Long says,” How could it be erroneous? A Bodhisattva is a Bodhisattva after all!”
The disappointment of Hongli and Zhao Hui is clearly imprinted on their faces. Chen Yuan Long shuts his eyes, appearing to be dozing off.
Hongli stays the course, “Aye, aye. Right, right, right. How could Bodhisattva make any mistake? Elder Chen, since I am here, could you grant me an audience with your daughter? After I have seen her, I would return by night to Hangzhou immediately.”
Slowly, Chen Yuan Long opens his eyes, “Is this His Majesty's wish?”
Hongli shakes his head, “No, not really. It's my own intention.”
Chen Yuan Long keeps his eyes half-shut again, “Your Highness is on undercover field inspection. You don't ask about agrarian problems, political affairs, whether the magistrates are just or dishonest, about tyrannical lords, about floods and taxation, about the well-being of the folks. You've neglected everything. You came all the way to Haining, just to ask me about my daughter?”
Hongli and Zhao Hui are left out in the cold.
Hongli gets up urgently, “Hongli shall take heed your admonition. It was just a random thought and I did not have any other intentions. I beg for your forgiveness.”
Unexpectedly, Chen Yuan Long begins snoring. Hongli and Zhao Hui stare at each other blankly.
Hongli, “Elder Chen, Chen Chen!”
Zhao Hui shakes his head and says softly, “Let's go.”
Hongli, “Elder Chen, I dare not impose upon you any further. Farewell.”
The slippery eel, Chen Yuan Long, continues to snore. Hongli sighs and, along with Zhao Hui, leaves quietly. Just when they step out of the threshold, they hear a beaming voice from Lady Chen, “Your Highness, the Crown Prince, is it you who are here?”
Chen Yuan Long is startled and snores no more.
Hongli, under the light of the lanterns, see Lady Chen rushing towards them with bells on. Lady Chen frantically hugs Hongli, “Your Highness, Your Highness!”
Hongli is moved, “Old Madam!”
Lady Chen is filled with both happiness and sorrow, “Lift the lanterns higher, let me examine the Crown Prince carefully.”
The maids lift the lanterns higher up.
Chen Yuan Long, who is inside the gardening hall, and shams a few coughs, fearing that Lady Chen may stir up trouble.
18. Chen Residence, Outside the Gardening Hall
Hongli and Lady Chen look at each other with deep passion. There are tears in Lady Chen's eyes. There are tears in Hongli's eyes.
Lady Chen, as if being choked, says, “Yes, Yes, it's the Crown Prince who is here to see me, to see me!”
Hongli uncontrollably kneels down, “Hongli pays his respects to Lady Chen.”
Lady Chen shakily holds him up, “This, this, how could I bear such courtesy? Get up, get up...”
Hongli prostrates himself before Lady Chen.
Lady Chen helps Hongli up and says in excitement, “You've grown so tall, grown so big already...”
...
22 Chen Residence, Bath Room
The maids proceed successively, pouring buckets of hot water into the wooden bath-tub and then exit.
“Your Highness, please go ahead.”
Hongli enters. Steam rises up above the hot water.
Hongli mutters, “Such family of great warmth! Warmer than what I have imagined to be. I am beginning to blame fate for making fun of me. Why sent me to a place to where I do not belong? As Cao Meng- De said, Roast me in flames.”
He disrobes...
24. Chen Residence, Bath House
Lady Chen raises the curtain, entering quietly. Hongli, sitting in the tub of hot water with his back facing the door, scrubs his body. Lady Chen looks with lovelorn eyes at her son whom she has never seen for twenty years. The ascending steam elicits a dream-like feeling.
Lady Chen's heart weeps, “Son! Why can't your mother acknowledge you? House of Ruling Family, House of Prime Minister, there are some things that can't be compared to that of House of Commoners.” As she is thinking, she ardently calls out, “Son!”
In the wooden bath-tub, Hongli is astounded. Slowly, he turns around, unconsciously putting the towel in front of his chest.
“Lady Chen?”
Lady Chen walks forwards in trembles, “I really wish to bathe you once. I have never given you a bath.”
“Well, well, bathe me.”
Lady Chen is both surprised and elated, “You're really going to let me bathe you, Your Highness?”
Hongli shivers his lips, “Aye.”
Lady Chen inches forward in haste, and takes the wet towel...
The five blood-like moles, in the formation of a hawthorn blossom, on Hongli's chest are exposed to Lady Chen. Lady Chen does not scrub his body. Rather, she gently touches the familiar symbol that belongs only to him and her.
All of sudden, Lady Chen begins to sob loudly.
Hongli holds her swaying body, “Lady Chen, Lady Chen!”
Lady Chen weeps, “Twenty years, twenty years. When it see it, see it, the bulb in my heart lights up, I do not know if it's fortune or misfortune.”
Lady Chen's cries can be heard outside. The two maids are unsettled and vacillate between going or not going in.