TLDR;
This episode of "Tale of Herding God" focuses on Qin Mu's entry into the Imperial Academy and the political tensions within the Yankang Nation. Emperor Yanfeng defends Qin Mu against accusations of being an outcast and a member of the Heavenly Demon Sect, asserting his authority over all people within his realm. The episode also explores the Emperor's ambition to reform the sects and the court, challenging the established power structures. Additionally, it introduces the Young Sect Leader, who observes the advancements in Yankang and recognizes the nation's growing strength, while the Patriarch hints at underlying conflicts and the potential for upheaval.
- Emperor Yanfeng defends Qin Mu and asserts authority over all within his realm.
- The episode highlights the Emperor's ambition to reform the sects and the court.
- The Young Sect Leader acknowledges Yankang's advancements and growing strength.
Opening Scene and Ling Yun's Defeat [3:16]
Ling Yun is defeated by Qin Mu's precise sword strikes, which broke through his Qi Shield. The Grand Libationer notes the impressive skills of the junior scholars, particularly Qin Mu. Due to disturbing the royal presence, Qin Mu is summoned to the Imperial Academy Hall for questioning.
The Imperial Academy Hall and Qin Mu's Interrogation [4:48]
Qin Mu faces the ministers of Yankang Nation, including the Patriarch and Chubby Seven, and Emperor Yanfeng. He identifies himself as being from the Great Wasteland, which prompts accusations of being connected to the Heavenly Demon Sect and disrupting Yankang's advance on Xianglong City. General Qin requests that the Emperor arrest Qin Mu due to his suspicious intentions.
Emperor Yanfeng's Defense of Qin Mu [6:09]
Emperor Yanfeng defends Qin Mu, stating that everyone within his lands serves him, including those from the Heavenly Demon Sect. He refuses to punish Qin Mu based on his origins, asserting that upon entering his realm, all become his people. The Emperor emphasizes that even if the gods abandon someone, he will not.
Emperor Yanfeng's Ambitions and Conflicts with Sects [7:37]
Emperor Yanfeng expresses his frustration with the sects, who he believes are plotting against him and seeking to claim the throne. He recalls a time when the country was a vassal of the sects, and emperors were at their mercy. He declares that those days are over and that no sect should be above the nation. He is pushing for reform and learning to take back resources from the sects and revolutionize the country.
The Court's Reaction and Qin Mu's New Title [9:32]
Emperor Yanfeng emphasizes the need for change within the court as well and declares that opposing the Imperial Advisor is opposing him. Despite some ministers' concerns, the Emperor's daughter vouches for Qin Mu, revealing him to be the Miracle Doctor of Flower Lane, known for saving lives across the capital. As a result, Emperor Yanfeng declares Qin Mu his Imperial Protégé.
Life at the Scholars' Residence [11:56]
Qin Mu observes that the selected scholars mostly come from prestigious families, highlighting the difficulty for those from humble backgrounds to break through the barrier of family heritage. He moves into the Scholars' Residence, where he faces prejudice from other scholars who consider him an outcast. Qin Mu confronts seniors from the Wei family, who are associated with the "Five Luminaries," after they attempt to intimidate him.
The Young Sect Leader's Observations [15:45]
The Young Sect Leader arrives and shares his observations of Yankang Nation, noting the integration of Daoist principles and mystical power into daily life, as well as the advancements in technology and infrastructure. He acknowledges Yankang Nation's growing strength and suggests that the sects cannot compete with it.
The Patriarch's Intrigue and the Imperial Advisor [17:16]
The Patriarch hints at underlying conflicts, suggesting that Yankang Nation is on the brink of disaster due to the Imperial Advisor's injury. The Young Sect Leader believes that the Imperial Advisor is feigning weakness to lure the enemy. The Patriarch notes that the Imperial Advisor's injuries were severe, inflicted by three old masters, but the Advisor is turning their tricks back on them. The Young Sect Leader recognizes the Imperial Advisor as a hero and a rare talent.
The Divine Oracle and Potential Conflict [18:22]
Emperor Yanfeng's actions are seen as defying the Divine Oracle and disrespecting the gods. The Patriarch suggests that if Emperor Yanfeng continues to ignore the Divine Oracle and shows no mercy to the sects, the three grandmasters of the Orthodox, Zen, and Demon Paths will take action.