How to pronounce "玩火自焚"

[Footprints of Change]

[Episode 9]

Mr. Cheng,

a gentleman is waiting for you inside.

I've made coffee for you.

No sugar.

What happened?

You've fallen out with Dalun?

Why do you say that?

Don't you know that Kang Kaisheng is Zeng Dalun's henchman?

Kang Kaisheng is Zeng Dalun's henchman?

Yes.

Shen Yiqun arrested Kang Kaisheng by night

and reported it to the Nanjing government.

The government immediately issued an order

to treat Kang Kaisheng as a rebel.

By the time Zeng Dalun arrived,

Kang Kaisheng had been sent to Nanjing.

Now even if Zeng Dalun claims

that Kang Kaisheng is his man,

the Nanjing government wouldn't admit their mistake.

Kang Kaisheng is doomed.

Shen Yiqun said

you and he are on the same side,

and you two worked together to arrest Kang Kaisheng.

You can't take Shen Yiqun's words

seriously.

Well done, bro.

You're playing politics now.

If you have any inside political information,

tell me at the first time.

But you should know

playing politics isn't that easy.

Whether you

work with Shen Yiqun

or with Zeng Dalun,

you have to be careful.

I won't work with anyone.

You are different now.

You won't even be honest with me now.

Fine.

I understand.

Director.

Siyun.

These two say they're from the Health Department

and want to see you.

Please come with me to my office.

No need.

We've received reports.

Sinan Maternity Hospital is suspected of illegal medical practice

and violations of health regulations.

Some of your practices even violated ethical standards.

We have decided

to order your hospital to cease operations immediately

for legal rectification.

The reopening time

depends on the rectification results.

I have government approval for my operation.

Who gave you this authority?

Here is the closure notice.

Read it yourself.

[Notice of Closing]

Those two people were sent by my father.

He was furious,

and almost tore the house apart.

Why?

You prescribed birth control pills for Aunt Nan, right?

Yes, I did.

He found out.

All these years, he's been hoping that

he and Aunt Nan could have a baby.

Has your father ever asked

if Aunt Nan wants to have children?

Siyun.

I understand your progressive thoughts.

But my father doesn't.

He's very traditional.

Is Aunt Nan okay?

She is fine.

My father didn't get too angry with her.

Instead, he directed all his anger at you.

Don't worry.

Take

these days a vacation for yourself.

Take a good rest.

I'll communicate with my father.

I'm glad Aunt Nan is okay.

Shen Yiqun.

Thank you for your concern.

Still worried?

Yes.

I need to discuss something with you.

The statement on this notice

about Sinan Hospital

is completely false.

I didn't do anything illegal.

If we can trace the source of these rumors,

and file an appeal,

will Sinan Hospital

be able to resume business soon?

Yes.

But according to my experience,

from filing an appeal to getting the verdict,

it will take

at least three months.

Three months?

If

you have trouble tracking

the source of the rumors,

it might take

half a year.

So long?

Besides,

if there are many cases in court,

it might take ten months

or even a year.

How can I keep my hospital running if so?

My funds won't last ten months.

I have so many doctors and nurses,

and medical supplies.

However,

I do have a quicker solution.

Why are you so annoying?

Why didn't you say so earlier?

Hello.

I'm looking for Director Shen.

Director Shen isn't seeing anyone today.

I told you already.

Director Shen isn't seeing anyone today.

Then please give this photo

to him.

Director.

Come in.

Get out.

Miss Lin,

what do you mean?

With Director Shen's intervention,

I believe the hospital's crisis

will be resolved soon.

You're threatening me?

Director Shen, you're overreacting.

It's just a matter of reciprocity.

Besides,

about Aunt Nan's birth control issue,

I hope you can stop interfering with it.

You want to meddle in my family affairs?

Then, I have no choice but to talk to Mayor Zhu

about his family matters.

Thank you for your understanding, Director Shen.

Dalun.

What are you doing here?

You want to talk to the director?

He probably won't be here for a while.

Why don't you come to my office first?

Let's have a chat.

Kang Kaisheng's incident

was truly a case of friendly fire.

He's too much like a Communist.

Think about

those articles he wrote,

and the things he did.

He looked exactly like a rebel sympathizer.

I didn't know he was your man.

Dalun,

although he's been sent to Nanjing now,

don't worry.

I'll go there myself later

to clear things up,

and bring him back to you.

Shen Yiqun.

What are you most afraid of?

What am I most afraid of?

Given the current situation,

what I fear most is that

Japan would launch a full-scale invasion of China.

People will be homeless refugees at that time.

Imagine it.

When that time comes,

how much will the people suffer?

I'm most afraid of venomous snakes.

Tigers and lions don't scare me at all.

But venomous snakes

always live in dark, damp places.

They will bite you when you least expect it

and kill you easily.

Indeed.

Yiqun.

Director.

What are you doing here?

I'm working here.

I saw Dalun here.

So, I came in to chat with him.

You two know each other?

We've known each other since childhood.

We are old friends.

Altough

you are friends,

let me formally introduce you.

Dalun has joined

our department's special action team.

You two should work closely together from now on.

What's more,

even Mr. Dai thinks highly of him.

Take good care of him.

Well, well!

Dalun,

congratulations!

If you need anything,

just let me know.

I'll fully cooperate with you.

Thanks for your kindness.

Now that the Director is here,

you'd report to him.

I'll head back first.

Come to my place for tea after you're done.

Okay.

I'll leave, Director.

Good!

My method worked out, right?

Thank you.

What's next?

♪ What we've loved, what we've said ♪

♪ Won't be swept away by wind or rain ♪

♪ What we've suffered, what we've missed ♪

♪ Shapes the loneliness of our parting ♪

♪ What we've loved, what we've said ♪

♪ The bonds of this life that never fade ♪

♪ I'll treasure what you gave me ♪

What's next?

♪ That brightness in the darkness ♪

What happens next

is very important.

♪ I'll treasure what you gave me ♪

I'm having dinner with Mr. Zeng tonight.

♪ That brightness in the darkness ♪

You're all busy.

But you came to celebrate my birthday.

Thank you.

It's our pleasure.

Our friendship

has lasted over 30 years now.

He wasn't even born at that time.

Does your father know about our relationship?

What relationship?

Why are you making it sound like

we have something to hide?

Will your father like

the gift I prepared for him?

Don't worry.

He'll definitely like it.

He loves drinking tea,

not to mention that

it's your gift.

Don't be nervous.

It isn't your first time here.

And you've met him before.

It's different this time.

We came in arm in arm.

It'll get better if you come more often.

So,

whatever happens,

let us support each other.

Father.

Ao.

Dr. Lin.

Come in.

Please, come in.

Mr. Zeng.

Wish you a happy birthday.

Thank you.

Look,

our family

has a lawyer.

In the future,

we will have a doctor.

Today,

I'm blessed with double happiness.

Congratulations.

Father,

Siyun brought you a gift.

That's very kind of you.

What's this?

Tea.

Foreign tea. Look.

It even has foreign letters.

Put it away quickly.

I told you he would like it.

Cheng Ao, come here.

Father.

Thank you, Father.

What are you thanking me for?

It's not for you.

Take it.

It's from Father.

Thank you, Mr. Zeng.

It's nothing.

Master, bad news.

A group of people from the police station are here.

Excuse me.

My friend.

May I help you?

Mr. Zeng,

someone reported that your son, Zeng Dalun,

is hiding and selling opium.

There must be a misunderstanding.

Our family has strictly forbidden

opium trading.

Mr. Zeng,

this is an order from my senior.

This is a search warrant.

Have you lost your minds?

Get out of my house now!

If you don't leave,

I'll pull out my gun.

How dare you!

Step aside!

Young Master Zeng,

Mr. Zeng,

we came with a search warrant.

If we leave without doing anything,

we won't be able to report back properly.

I'm sure you understand.

Okay.

Do your job.

But

today is my birthday.

I've invited many guests.

Our family values our reputation.

If you find nothing,

the police station

has to publicly apologize to our family.

Mr. Zeng,

if we find nothing,

I will certainly apologize.

And we'll publish

a front-page apology in the newspaper.

Please proceed.

Search!

Hurry up.

Over here!

Did you do this?

Dad,

I didn't do it.

Please trust me.

Found it!

Take it out!

Let's go!

Take it out!

Mr. Zeng,

please

verify if this is real.

Do what you should do.

Take him away.

It's fine.

I didn't do it anyway.

Alright.

I can walk.

Pack up and take him away.

Hurry up!

Mr. Cheng.

Our law firm has quite a few cases lately.

Could you help us handle some of them?

Here are the relevant documents.

No problem.

That's what old classmates are for.

You helped me a lot before.

This person has asked me for help.

You were too busy.

I recently have

a similar case.

I'll handle them together.

Alright, leave it to me.

Okay.

Cheng Ao,

when I was paying the fine at the police station,

I asked around.

They said a lawyer named Cheng reported me.

We didn't have any conflict, did we?

Even though you don't like

my way of doing things,

you shouldn't stab me in the back like this.

You know I work

for the government.

My reputation is important.

After this incident,

I've been bribing officials,

explaining myself and entertaining others.

But I don't even know if these will help.

Shen Yiqun watches me every day.

You deliberately

gave him something to use against me.

Besides, I didn't even do this thing.

Boiling beans,

with beanstalks as fuel,

the beans

weep in the pot.

We are brothers.

I won't be angry with you.

You're blocking my light.

You had the police

arrest me at Dad's birthday banquet.

I can also choose not to tell Dad about it.

Do not let him

worry about us.

He's getting old.

You can see that too, right?

From now on, you'll be the head of this family.

And I'll be the second-in-command.

Cheng Ao.

We need to stick together.

Cheng Ao.

You're so talented.

Dalun.

I am

Jinghan.

I've noticed that

since you returned from the Northeast,

you've become quite famous in Shanghai.

Everyone knows your name.

Your career is really taking off.

I heard that you're now

working at the Revival Society,

and engaging in the opium trade.

I want to make big money with you.

I graduated from business school,

and I want to follow in your footsteps, Dalun.

I'll follow your lead.

I will do whatever you want me to do.

Jinghan.

Have a drink.

Let me fill it up.

I actually quite like you.

How should I describe you?

You're like

a toothless old dog.

You don't bite,

but you're still quite intimidating.

I can't help you with work matters.

But if you want to come here for drinks,

it's on me.

Get out.

No visitors for the next 30 minutes.

Close the door.

Yes.

I did it.

Is everything in place?

All set, Director.

Let's go.

This is a search warrant.

Take it out.

Cheng Ao.

When I was paying the fine at the police station,

I asked around.

I heard it was reported by a lawyer named Cheng.

You dragged me down,

trying to tie me to you.

You're too afraid to face Zeng Dalun yourself

because he works for Mr. Dai.

You're quite shameless.

I admit my method

is somewhat despicable.

But to make great achievements,

I should use some tactics.

I know Zeng Dalun is the one who caused you trouble.

You're concerned about Mr. Zeng.

So, you didn't dare scheme against Dalun.

But I have nothing to worry about.

Since we have a common enemy,

why don't we brothers join forces?

It's a good thing.

Who said we're brothers?

No matter what Zeng Dalun did to me,

it is my own business.

I know.

You grew up together

and have loyalty between you.

But don't we have something between us, too?

We did.

Before this incident, we did.

Now, when I look at you, I just feel disgusted.

Cheng Ao,

I never thought

I would hear

these words from you.

I admit I'm a despicable person.

But without being this way,

how could I ever succeed?

Once I have power in my hands,

I'll share it with you.

Bro,

one of us has to be

the disgusting one.

Now, I've chosen to be the one.

What right do you have to criticize me?

Are you crazy?

Who's crazy?

Who wants your pathetic power?

No matter what happens between you and Zeng Dalun,

don't get me involved. Got it?

Understand?

Director Shen.

Mr. Zeng.

Mr. Sada.

Your dad refuses to cooperate with us.

He also incited the union workers to organize strikes.

Do you know all this?

My dad is quite traditional

and conservative.

Mr. Zeng.

Can you persuade your dad to cooperate with us?

He could make a lot of money.

And we can guarantee your dad's safety.

Your dad has two choices,

cooperating with us

or being killed by us.

You're threatening me?

That's not my intention.

We are friends.

So, I'm telling you this.

I hope you can consider it.

Why did you ask me to meet at the dock?

When we were kids,

we always played here.

When we were young, Dad didn't allow us to drink

but we always drank in secret.

Remember that time

when you got drunk and Dad caught you?

He slapped you so hard that two of your teeth flew out.

Nonsense.

He did slap me.

But my teeth didn't fall out.

Well,

I remember now.

I bought the wine for you.

You did buy it for me

but I never got to drink it.

You finished it all before you even got home.

I saved you.

Otherwise, you would've been slapped, too.

Fine, thank you.

Cheng Ao.

About Xiu,

I didn't tell you the truth.

I know.

About Huang Aniu,

I also lied to you.

I know.

But today,

I need to tell you the truth

and be honest.

I do have connections with the Japanese.

They now wield considerable influence in Shanghai.

I can only befriend them and avoid making enemies.

It allows me to make money

without any risk.

I hope you understand that

and help me convince Dad

to cooperate with the Japanese.

What do you think?

Forget about Communism.

If you continue down that path,

it will only lead to your death.

Besides,

our family business

is only in the French Concession.

Soon after the Japanese come,

the French will all flee.

Have you ever had Japanese food?

Tomorrow,

I'll invite Sada

to have a meal with us.

Sada is a nice person.

And

when you

put the sashimi in your mouth,

you will find the taste

is amazing.

What are you doing?

Where are you going?

Zeng Dalun.

We're not brothers anymore.

Why?

Cheng Ao!

Come back!

Help me massage my back.

Master.

Mr. Cheng and Miss Lin are here.

Please show them in.

Yes, Master.

Father.

Dr. Lin.

Father, please don't move.

I'm sorry.

I'm not feeling well.

Please excuse my negligence.

Please have a seat.

Mr. Zeng.

You don't need to attend to me.

Have you seen a doctor?

Would you like me to recommend some Western doctors?

No need.

It's an old ailment.

A few doses of Chinese medicine will help.

Miss Lin.

Come sit in my room.

I want you to check on my baby.

Okay.

Yes.

Keep Dr. Lin company for a while.

Take it slow.

Come, have a seat.

Tell me the truth.

Did you report Dalun?

No.

Reporting him wouldn't be wrong.

I just don't want to see

you two turning against each other.

You lost your parents when you were young.

I've always treated you as my own son.

I hoped you two

would get along well

and support each other.

Dalun is a jerk

who deserves to die.

But I hope the one who kills him

wouldn't be you.

Do you understand?

Have a rest, Father.

Dad.

Stand up!

Are you still hanging around with the Japanese?

Cut the crap.

You did business

with the Japanese in Changchun,

selling local goods to them

and bringing Japanese products back here.

You think I don't know?

I did it to make money.

Nonsense!

Besides doing business,

what else did you do?

Nothing.

You worked with Huang Aniu

trafficking opium

and had your gang members

attack Cheng Ao,

right?

Zeng Dalun,

you're playing with fire. Do you realize that?

Dad.

I'm working for the Revival Society now.

I need

money to get things done here.

How can I rise step by step without money?

But you should not collude with the Japanese.

That's my bottom line.

I'm not trying to collude with them.

They came to me first.

You incited the union workers to strike.

They gave you two options.

Cooperate with them

and make a lot of money.

Or,

they'll kill you.

Let them try.

If I am frightened,

I'm not worthy to be your dad.

Dad.

In my opinion,

you are too conservative.

Why are you so stubborn?

You've taught us since we were young

we should not make enemies with forces stronger than us.

You made the union workers strike.

The Japanese didn't punish you.

Instead, they want to cooperate with you.

What a great opportunity!

I think

the Japanese influence in Shanghai

is getting stronger and stronger.

You'll have to face the Japanese sooner or later.

Better sooner than later.

We need to use

the Japanese influence

to become the number one group in Shanghai.

Get out!

Dad.

After more than 20 years,

your still have so much strength.

Alright.

It won't be long

before we see whose judgment is correct.

Old man.

Don't go out these days unless necessary.

Take some men with you when you go out.

Be careful not to be killed.

Hello, this is Pingzheng Law Firm.

Mr. Cheng,

Master is feeling unwell. He's asking you to come over.

What's wrong with Father?

Is he okay?

He said he has important matters to tell you.

Okay, I'll be right there.

Master.

Mr. Cheng is

waiting at the door.

I'll step out first.

Call me if you need anything.

Yanhong.

Sit down.

What I'm about to discuss

concerns you.

Father.

Ao,

have a seat.

I'll tell you something.

Write it down.

I want to change my will.

All my assets,

houses,

and the land in my hometown

which were originally intended for my sole heir, Zeng Dalun,

will be divided into four equal parts.

One part

goes to my eldest son, Zeng Dalun.

One part

goes to my adopted son, Cheng Ao.

One part

goes to Xiao Yanhong

and her young son.

The last part

should be donated to my hometown

to build schools

and charity houses.

Thank you, Master.

Have you written everything down?

After it's finished,

I'll sign it.

Everything is noted.

I'll take my leave now, Father.

♪ There was a Monk Mulian ♪

♪ He broke into the underworld to save his mother ♪

[Footprints of Change]

[Episode 9]

Mr. Cheng,

a gentleman is waiting for you inside.

I've made coffee for you.

No sugar.

What happened?

You've fallen out with Dalun?

Why do you say that?

Don't you know that Kang Kaisheng is Zeng Dalun's henchman?

Kang Kaisheng is Zeng Dalun's henchman?

Yes.

Shen Yiqun arrested Kang Kaisheng by night

and reported it to the Nanjing government.

The government immediately issued an order

to treat Kang Kaisheng as a rebel.

By the time Zeng Dalun arrived,

Kang Kaisheng had been sent to Nanjing.

Now even if Zeng Dalun claims

that Kang Kaisheng is his man,

the Nanjing government wouldn't admit their mistake.

Kang Kaisheng is doomed.

Shen Yiqun said

you and he are on the same side,

and you two worked together to arrest Kang Kaisheng.

You can't take Shen Yiqun's words

seriously.

Well done, bro.

You're playing politics now.

If you have any inside political information,

tell me at the first time.

But you should know

playing politics isn't that easy.

Whether you

work with Shen Yiqun

or with Zeng Dalun,

you have to be careful.

I won't work with anyone.

You are different now.

You won't even be honest with me now.

Fine.

I understand.

Director.

Siyun.

These two say they're from the Health Department

and want to see you.

Please come with me to my office.

No need.

We've received reports.

Sinan Maternity Hospital is suspected of illegal medical practice

and violations of health regulations.

Some of your practices even violated ethical standards.

We have decided

to order your hospital to cease operations immediately

for legal rectification.

The reopening time

depends on the rectification results.

I have government approval for my operation.

Who gave you this authority?

Here is the closure notice.

Read it yourself.

[Notice of Closing]

Those two people were sent by my father.

He was furious,

and almost tore the house apart.

Why?

You prescribed birth control pills for Aunt Nan, right?

Yes, I did.

He found out.

All these years, he's been hoping that

he and Aunt Nan could have a baby.

Has your father ever asked

if Aunt Nan wants to have children?

Siyun.

I understand your progressive thoughts.

But my father doesn't.

He's very traditional.

Is Aunt Nan okay?

She is fine.

My father didn't get too angry with her.

Instead, he directed all his anger at you.

Don't worry.

Take

these days a vacation for yourself.

Take a good rest.

I'll communicate with my father.

I'm glad Aunt Nan is okay.

Shen Yiqun.

Thank you for your concern.

Still worried?

Yes.

I need to discuss something with you.

The statement on this notice

about Sinan Hospital

is completely false.

I didn't do anything illegal.

If we can trace the source of these rumors,

and file an appeal,

will Sinan Hospital

be able to resume business soon?

Yes.

But according to my experience,

from filing an appeal to getting the verdict,

it will take

at least three months.

Three months?

If

you have trouble tracking

the source of the rumors,

it might take

half a year.

So long?

Besides,

if there are many cases in court,

it might take ten months

or even a year.

How can I keep my hospital running if so?

My funds won't last ten months.

I have so many doctors and nurses,

and medical supplies.

However,

I do have a quicker solution.

Why are you so annoying?

Why didn't you say so earlier?

Hello.

I'm looking for Director Shen.

Director Shen isn't seeing anyone today.

I told you already.

Director Shen isn't seeing anyone today.

Then please give this photo

to him.

Director.

Come in.

Get out.

Miss Lin,

what do you mean?

With Director Shen's intervention,

I believe the hospital's crisis

will be resolved soon.

You're threatening me?

Director Shen, you're overreacting.

It's just a matter of reciprocity.

Besides,

about Aunt Nan's birth control issue,

I hope you can stop interfering with it.

You want to meddle in my family affairs?

Then, I have no choice but to talk to Mayor Zhu

about his family matters.

Thank you for your understanding, Director Shen.

Dalun.

What are you doing here?

You want to talk to the director?

He probably won't be here for a while.

Why don't you come to my office first?

Let's have a chat.

Kang Kaisheng's incident

was truly a case of friendly fire.

He's too much like a Communist.

Think about

those articles he wrote,

and the things he did.

He looked exactly like a rebel sympathizer.

I didn't know he was your man.

Dalun,

although he's been sent to Nanjing now,

don't worry.

I'll go there myself later

to clear things up,

and bring him back to you.

Shen Yiqun.

What are you most afraid of?

What am I most afraid of?

Given the current situation,

what I fear most is that

Japan would launch a full-scale invasion of China.

People will be homeless refugees at that time.

Imagine it.

When that time comes,

how much will the people suffer?

I'm most afraid of venomous snakes.

Tigers and lions don't scare me at all.

But venomous snakes

always live in dark, damp places.

They will bite you when you least expect it

and kill you easily.

Indeed.

Yiqun.

Director.

What are you doing here?

I'm working here.

I saw Dalun here.

So, I came in to chat with him.

You two know each other?

We've known each other since childhood.

We are old friends.

Altough

you are friends,

let me formally introduce you.

Dalun has joined

our department's special action team.

You two should work closely together from now on.

What's more,

even Mr. Dai thinks highly of him.

Take good care of him.

Well, well!

Dalun,

congratulations!

If you need anything,

just let me know.

I'll fully cooperate with you.

Thanks for your kindness.

Now that the Director is here,

you'd report to him.

I'll head back first.

Come to my place for tea after you're done.

Okay.

I'll leave, Director.

Good!

My method worked out, right?

Thank you.

What's next?

♪ What we've loved, what we've said ♪

♪ Won't be swept away by wind or rain ♪

♪ What we've suffered, what we've missed ♪

♪ Shapes the loneliness of our parting ♪

♪ What we've loved, what we've said ♪

♪ The bonds of this life that never fade ♪

♪ I'll treasure what you gave me ♪

What's next?

♪ That brightness in the darkness ♪

What happens next

is very important.

♪ I'll treasure what you gave me ♪

I'm having dinner with Mr. Zeng tonight.

♪ That brightness in the darkness ♪

You're all busy.

But you came to celebrate my birthday.

Thank you.

It's our pleasure.

Our friendship

has lasted over 30 years now.

He wasn't even born at that time.

Does your father know about our relationship?

What relationship?

Why are you making it sound like

we have something to hide?

Will your father like

the gift I prepared for him?

Don't worry.

He'll definitely like it.

He loves drinking tea,

not to mention that

it's your gift.

Don't be nervous.

It isn't your first time here.

And you've met him before.

It's different this time.

We came in arm in arm.

It'll get better if you come more often.

So,

whatever happens,

let us support each other.

Father.

Ao.

Dr. Lin.

Come in.

Please, come in.

Mr. Zeng.

Wish you a happy birthday.

Thank you.

Look,

our family

has a lawyer.

In the future,

we will have a doctor.

Today,

I'm blessed with double happiness.

Congratulations.

Father,

Siyun brought you a gift.

That's very kind of you.

What's this?

Tea.

Foreign tea. Look.

It even has foreign letters.

Put it away quickly.

I told you he would like it.

Cheng Ao, come here.

Father.

Thank you, Father.

What are you thanking me for?

It's not for you.

Take it.

It's from Father.

Thank you, Mr. Zeng.

It's nothing.

Master, bad news.

A group of people from the police station are here.

Excuse me.

My friend.

May I help you?

Mr. Zeng,

someone reported that your son, Zeng Dalun,

is hiding and selling opium.

There must be a misunderstanding.

Our family has strictly forbidden

opium trading.

Mr. Zeng,

this is an order from my senior.

This is a search warrant.

Have you lost your minds?

Get out of my house now!

If you don't leave,

I'll pull out my gun.

How dare you!

Step aside!

Young Master Zeng,

Mr. Zeng,

we came with a search warrant.

If we leave without doing anything,

we won't be able to report back properly.

I'm sure you understand.

Okay.

Do your job.

But

today is my birthday.

I've invited many guests.

Our family values our reputation.

If you find nothing,

the police station

has to publicly apologize to our family.

Mr. Zeng,

if we find nothing,

I will certainly apologize.

And we'll publish

a front-page apology in the newspaper.

Please proceed.

Search!

Hurry up.

Over here!

Did you do this?

Dad,

I didn't do it.

Please trust me.

Found it!

Take it out!

Let's go!

Take it out!

Mr. Zeng,

please

verify if this is real.

Do what you should do.

Take him away.

It's fine.

I didn't do it anyway.

Alright.

I can walk.

Pack up and take him away.

Hurry up!

Mr. Cheng.

Our law firm has quite a few cases lately.

Could you help us handle some of them?

Here are the relevant documents.

No problem.

That's what old classmates are for.

You helped me a lot before.

This person has asked me for help.

You were too busy.

I recently have

a similar case.

I'll handle them together.

Alright, leave it to me.

Okay.

Cheng Ao,

when I was paying the fine at the police station,

I asked around.

They said a lawyer named Cheng reported me.

We didn't have any conflict, did we?

Even though you don't like

my way of doing things,

you shouldn't stab me in the back like this.

You know I work

for the government.

My reputation is important.

After this incident,

I've been bribing officials,

explaining myself and entertaining others.

But I don't even know if these will help.

Shen Yiqun watches me every day.

You deliberately

gave him something to use against me.

Besides, I didn't even do this thing.

Boiling beans,

with beanstalks as fuel,

the beans

weep in the pot.

We are brothers.

I won't be angry with you.

You're blocking my light.

You had the police

arrest me at Dad's birthday banquet.

I can also choose not to tell Dad about it.

Do not let him

worry about us.

He's getting old.

You can see that too, right?

From now on, you'll be the head of this family.

And I'll be the second-in-command.

Cheng Ao.

We need to stick together.

Cheng Ao.

You're so talented.

Dalun.

I am

Jinghan.

I've noticed that

since you returned from the Northeast,

you've become quite famous in Shanghai.

Everyone knows your name.

Your career is really taking off.

I heard that you're now

working at the Revival Society,

and engaging in the opium trade.

I want to make big money with you.

I graduated from business school,

and I want to follow in your footsteps, Dalun.

I'll follow your lead.

I will do whatever you want me to do.

Jinghan.

Have a drink.

Let me fill it up.

I actually quite like you.

How should I describe you?

You're like

a toothless old dog.

You don't bite,

but you're still quite intimidating.

I can't help you with work matters.

But if you want to come here for drinks,

it's on me.

Get out.

No visitors for the next 30 minutes.

Close the door.

Yes.

I did it.

Is everything in place?

All set, Director.

Let's go.

This is a search warrant.

Take it out.

Cheng Ao.

When I was paying the fine at the police station,

I asked around.

I heard it was reported by a lawyer named Cheng.

You dragged me down,

trying to tie me to you.

You're too afraid to face Zeng Dalun yourself

because he works for Mr. Dai.

You're quite shameless.

I admit my method

is somewhat despicable.

But to make great achievements,

I should use some tactics.

I know Zeng Dalun is the one who caused you trouble.

You're concerned about Mr. Zeng.

So, you didn't dare scheme against Dalun.

But I have nothing to worry about.

Since we have a common enemy,

why don't we brothers join forces?

It's a good thing.

Who said we're brothers?

No matter what Zeng Dalun did to me,

it is my own business.

I know.

You grew up together

and have loyalty between you.

But don't we have something between us, too?

We did.

Before this incident, we did.

Now, when I look at you, I just feel disgusted.

Cheng Ao,

I never thought

I would hear

these words from you.

I admit I'm a despicable person.

But without being this way,

how could I ever succeed?

Once I have power in my hands,

I'll share it with you.

Bro,

one of us has to be

the disgusting one.

Now, I've chosen to be the one.

What right do you have to criticize me?

Are you crazy?

Who's crazy?

Who wants your pathetic power?

No matter what happens between you and Zeng Dalun,

don't get me involved. Got it?

Understand?

Director Shen.

Mr. Zeng.

Mr. Sada.

Your dad refuses to cooperate with us.

He also incited the union workers to organize strikes.

Do you know all this?

My dad is quite traditional

and conservative.

Mr. Zeng.

Can you persuade your dad to cooperate with us?

He could make a lot of money.

And we can guarantee your dad's safety.

Your dad has two choices,

cooperating with us

or being killed by us.

You're threatening me?

That's not my intention.

We are friends.

So, I'm telling you this.

I hope you can consider it.

Why did you ask me to meet at the dock?

When we were kids,

we always played here.

When we were young, Dad didn't allow us to drink

but we always drank in secret.

Remember that time

when you got drunk and Dad caught you?

He slapped you so hard that two of your teeth flew out.

Nonsense.

He did slap me.

But my teeth didn't fall out.

Well,

I remember now.

I bought the wine for you.

You did buy it for me

but I never got to drink it.

You finished it all before you even got home.

I saved you.

Otherwise, you would've been slapped, too.

Fine, thank you.

Cheng Ao.

About Xiu,

I didn't tell you the truth.

I know.

About Huang Aniu,

I also lied to you.

I know.

But today,

I need to tell you the truth

and be honest.

I do have connections with the Japanese.

They now wield considerable influence in Shanghai.

I can only befriend them and avoid making enemies.

It allows me to make money

without any risk.

I hope you understand that

and help me convince Dad

to cooperate with the Japanese.

What do you think?

Forget about Communism.

If you continue down that path,

it will only lead to your death.

Besides,

our family business

is only in the French Concession.

Soon after the Japanese come,

the French will all flee.

Have you ever had Japanese food?

Tomorrow,

I'll invite Sada

to have a meal with us.

Sada is a nice person.

And

when you

put the sashimi in your mouth,

you will find the taste

is amazing.

What are you doing?

Where are you going?

Zeng Dalun.

We're not brothers anymore.

Why?

Cheng Ao!

Come back!

Help me massage my back.

Master.

Mr. Cheng and Miss Lin are here.

Please show them in.

Yes, Master.

Father.

Dr. Lin.

Father, please don't move.

I'm sorry.

I'm not feeling well.

Please excuse my negligence.

Please have a seat.

Mr. Zeng.

You don't need to attend to me.

Have you seen a doctor?

Would you like me to recommend some Western doctors?

No need.

It's an old ailment.

A few doses of Chinese medicine will help.

Miss Lin.

Come sit in my room.

I want you to check on my baby.

Okay.

Yes.

Keep Dr. Lin company for a while.

Take it slow.

Come, have a seat.

Tell me the truth.

Did you report Dalun?

No.

Reporting him wouldn't be wrong.

I just don't want to see

you two turning against each other.

You lost your parents when you were young.

I've always treated you as my own son.

I hoped you two

would get along well

and support each other.

Dalun is a jerk

who deserves to die.

But I hope the one who kills him

wouldn't be you.

Do you understand?

Have a rest, Father.

Dad.

Stand up!

Are you still hanging around with the Japanese?

Cut the crap.

You did business

with the Japanese in Changchun,

selling local goods to them

and bringing Japanese products back here.

You think I don't know?

I did it to make money.

Nonsense!

Besides doing business,

what else did you do?

Nothing.

You worked with Huang Aniu

trafficking opium

and had your gang members

attack Cheng Ao,

right?

Zeng Dalun,

you're playing with fire. Do you realize that?

Dad.

I'm working for the Revival Society now.

I need

money to get things done here.

How can I rise step by step without money?

But you should not collude with the Japanese.

That's my bottom line.

I'm not trying to collude with them.

They came to me first.

You incited the union workers to strike.

They gave you two options.

Cooperate with them

and make a lot of money.

Or,

they'll kill you.

Let them try.

If I am frightened,

I'm not worthy to be your dad.

Dad.

In my opinion,

you are too conservative.

Why are you so stubborn?

You've taught us since we were young

we should not make enemies with forces stronger than us.

You made the union workers strike.

The Japanese didn't punish you.

Instead, they want to cooperate with you.

What a great opportunity!

I think

the Japanese influence in Shanghai

is getting stronger and stronger.

You'll have to face the Japanese sooner or later.

Better sooner than later.

We need to use

the Japanese influence

to become the number one group in Shanghai.

Get out!

Dad.

After more than 20 years,

your still have so much strength.

Alright.

It won't be long

before we see whose judgment is correct.

Old man.

Don't go out these days unless necessary.

Take some men with you when you go out.

Be careful not to be killed.

Hello, this is Pingzheng Law Firm.

Mr. Cheng,

Master is feeling unwell. He's asking you to come over.

What's wrong with Father?

Is he okay?

He said he has important matters to tell you.

Okay, I'll be right there.

Master.

Mr. Cheng is

waiting at the door.

I'll step out first.

Call me if you need anything.

Yanhong.

Sit down.

What I'm about to discuss

concerns you.

Father.

Ao,

have a seat.

I'll tell you something.

Write it down.

I want to change my will.

All my assets,

houses,

and the land in my hometown

which were originally intended for my sole heir, Zeng Dalun,

will be divided into four equal parts.

One part

goes to my eldest son, Zeng Dalun.

One part

goes to my adopted son, Cheng Ao.

One part

goes to Xiao Yanhong

and her young son.

The last part

should be donated to my hometown

to build schools

and charity houses.

Thank you, Master.

Have you written everything down?

After it's finished,

I'll sign it.

Everything is noted.

I'll take my leave now, Father.

♪ There was a Monk Mulian ♪

♪ He broke into the underworld to save his mother ♪