Rosy Business [TVB][E]

MESSAGE BY ME

2010-06-18T13:37:00.002+08:00

I have completed the recap for all 25 episodes, never missing one episode. Some may be hit and miss, my recap mostly crippled by my bad memory and my terrible translation but I hope you have enjoyed reading them as much as I have writing them every night after viewing an episode. What a ride! I shall gather my thoughts and post them in my review proper.

If you happen to stumble into here, do take note the comments are still opened. Post away and I will reply!

Thanks again!

EPISODE 25 [FINAL EPISODE]

2010-06-17T23:55:00.006+08:00

This is it. The final episode. I must say there is a closure for all characters, seen or unseen. And we finally know Chai Gau's true age. Get ready with your tissues...

I didn't recap this part in last episode where Lord prince said to Official Lee that "You will write a report, and in your report you shall exonorate 4th Madam and Chai Gau of all charges". Scene opens with the official looking scared after a whole lot of big names dropped on him and Lord Prince reminded him "Remember, the report" and the official cowardly said "Yes, My Lord" and went away. Hing and everybody else shouted at the 3 stooges to "Go away!! LEAVE!!" which they did.

Bo Kei and Chai Gau walked up to Lord Prince and thanked him for his help but they did say "But how sure are we he will write as you directed? That we are safe?" which is a question rather than an accusation. Lord Prince looked at them kindly and said "Do not worry. When I return to the city, I shall donate all my wealth to the empire in return for one favour and I will use that favour to make sure you two will be alright!" and Chai Gau said "My Lord, we do not deserve such kindness! How can we ask you to do that?!" and Lord Prince smiled kindly and said "This is one thing which I will gladly to. Didn't you Chai Gau always say, how many more decades does one have, why not live life to the fullest, seize the day?" and everybody rejoiced.

Not long later Bit Ching was cleaning Fong's room when he saw a letter. He ran out and said the letter was by Fong to Bo Kei, Ah Man, himself and Mo. They all sat down as he read the letter then we hear Fong's voice and some flashback;

"I hope you will all never get to read this letter but if you did, it would mean I have passed away. Bit Ching, you're my son and I love you. I have never felt much worth until the day you were born and someone said you were a handsome baby, and you looked like me that I felt pride in myself in giving birth to you. You're such a good son but I never thought you were like me at all. You were more like 4th sister and I resented that but after a while I see your virtue. I love how you look when you chased after Bit Man and caned him. I love your attitude of never claiming glory and working well with your fellow workers. I love your look when you stood up for what's right. Never be like me Bit Ching, I am happy for once you're nothing like me. Ah Man, when you first entered Bit Ching's life as a swindler, I must confess I disliked you. But over time I got to know you and I know you're a true blessing in my son's life. Take good care of Bit Ching for me. 4th sister, when you first entered the mansion, I disliked you. I thought you were so unladylike, when you took the pistols and fired them. And then Mo was kidnapped and I saw that one look on your face when nobody else noticed (Bo Kei looking worried and crying in one scene) that I knew you have a kind heart. I am so happy to have called you my sister. I know you will blame yourself for my death. But you have done so much for me and Bit Ching, you didn't have to take on the position with the rebels but you did and saved my Bit Ching, an act of kindness I could never repay. I am indebted to you, and now you're indebted to me. But 4th sister, let us stop talking about indebtedness, shall we? Let that be nothing at all. Take good care of Bit Ching for me" and Bo Kei cried and laughed as she said "Yes 3rd sister, we shall stop talking about indebtedness".

Bo Kei writes in her diary;

"Lord Prince assured us we will be pardoned. We weren't so sure but indeed some time later the imperial decree came and Chai Gau and I were free! However Chai Gau's condition didn't get any better..Hoi Tong later told me he wasn't well at all but when he received news we would be pardoned, his spirit lifted and he actually could manage to leave the bed to come and tell me the news. But now, he is unwell again..." as Bo Kei stopped, tears brimming in her eyes. Also the Official Lee was arrested and charged with corruption.

Chai Gau coughed violently as we see things were rather hopeless and Bo Kei wrote in her diary;

"Everyone in the town dropped by to ask me how was Chai Gau. They were as worried as me and even offered me some medical recipes and soup recipes which would help. I decided to use one of the soup recipe and boiled it for Chai Gau to drink every day. It Worked! It truly worked! Chai Gau coughed lesser and could get off bed! He even said the soup was delicious!"

Chai Gau walked into the hall and was greeted by everyone who was there. They were far away because his cough is still contagious though he seemed better. He looked deathly pale, with dark rings around his eyes, pale chapped lips but he managed to smile and asked good naturedly "What is the ocassion for celebration?" and I think it was Hoi Tong or someone who answered, in fact I think it was Bit Ching who answered "To celebrate your birthday!" and Chai Gau smiled and said "MY birthday? Isn't that next month? Why so early? Afraid that I won't make it till then?" and he smiled but everyone looked gloomy and he said "Did you make me my favourite dishes?" and Hoi Tong answered "Yes, at that table, all there, your favourite!" and Chai Gau walked to that table set apart from the others and sat down heavily and asked "What about a cup of wine? May I have that since it is my birthday?" and Bo Kei looked at him and said smilingly "Chai Gau, you may have a drink, but that would be the nutritous soup I boiled" and Chai Gau smiled and said to no one in particular ...

"Do not feel sorry for me. I am a truly blessed man. I came to this town with nothing, not even money, or food or clothes to call my own. And yet I worked my way up and I became a supervisor, I was once a 3rd manager, I was lucky enough to be a businessman, I earned myself a vast fortune and the best of all, I have found myself great friends..."

He used the word "Ji Kei" which can be very close friends, soulmate or sometimes in context, most loved. In this context it is close dear great friends..

Chai Gau slowly continued "If I were to die tomorrow I will die with no regrets. I have achieved so much, surrounded by you all, I shall leave this world without any regrets at all..."

Yeah but Chai Gau, maybe one regret? Your love for Bo Kei not fulfilled?

Hoi Tong was upset and said "Chai Gau, can you not talk about death?" and Bo Kei too was upset and said "Chai Gau, have you forgotten that you as 4th madam gang member promised me you will live past 40, see 50, then 60 and reach 70 years of age?" and Chai Gau smiled sadly and said "Indeed, indeed" and he toasted everyone with the soup and everyone toasted back.

Meanwhile Bit Man and Pang Hang are up to no good. The money in the box they dug up was depleting and Bit Man cried "I can't stand this anymore!" as Fung Yee told him they could start life anew in another town, open a small rice shop but Bit Man refused as Fung Yee said sternly "Why not? Your grandfather opened his first small rice shop next to a noodle (I think she said that) shop, he worked his way up, so can you!" and Bit Man cried "Don't you see mother? I used to run a big franchise, with hundreds of workers at my disposal, dealing with thousands worth of contract! I won't start again! NO!" and he left hurriedly much to Fung Yee's disappointment.

He gambled with Pang Hang and he said "Uncle, find me a way to get back my fortune! I will share 30%.. no! 50% with you!" and Pang Hang slyly said "Well there is a way...me and my men can rob the Cheung Mansion whilst you create a diversion by setting fire to the rice warehouse, a way to take revenge against them by burning all their rice!" and useless Bit Man actually smiled at that idea!

That night, Pang Hang and his men went into the mansion, tied everyone up and gathered them at the living room, and they didn't know these men were since Pang Hang and men's faces were covered. THey stole everything and left.

Meanwhile Bit Man was getting ready to leave the hotel to burn down the warehouse, opened the door and there was Fung Yee. Fung Yee asked "What are you going to do?" and Bit Man said "Leave me alone! I am going to burn down the warehouse, the uncle and all of us are going to run away with the fortune and live the rest of our lives in luxury!" but Fung Yee was horrified and said "You can't do that Bit Man! You can't be that stupid! You will be a fugitive, forever running! You can't!" and tried to stop him but Bit man pushed her away roughly and she fell and he left as she cried "Bit Man! Bit Man! Uncle Cheung Fatt!!!!" and dog came out and she said "Bit Man wants to burn down the warehouse! Chase after him!" and the dog ran after him.

At the warehouse Bit Man threw kerosene I suppose everywhere when Uncle Cheung Fatt arrived and stopped him and shouted at him "Stop this! Stop it!! Don't you realise this is your grandfather's warehouse? He worked hard for this, and you're going to burn it to the ground?!" and Bit Man cried "I damn well will!" and dog said "And then what? You will run away?" and Bit Man said "Uncle has rented some boats for us. We can all run! We can live in the country's borderline!" and Cheung Fatt scolded him "You can't!" and Bit Man cried "Uncle can, so can I!!" and dog said "Of course he can. He is Pang Hang! He is a roughneck! You're not! You were born with a silver spoon in your mouth, you can never live like that, you won't be able to withstand that sort of life!" but Bit Man refused to listen and set fire and it was burning all around as dog struggled with Bit Man who fell and hit his head. He was off for a while as the place was burning and dog rushed to him and cried "Master! Young master!!" and he woke up, shocked to see the fire was getting out of hand. They tried to leave but was surrounded with huge fire. Fung Yee arrived and cried "Bit Man! Bit Man! Don't worry! Mother will save you! Someone, anyone, please save my Bit Man! Someone, anyone!!!!" but there was no one as Bit Man reached his hand out and cried "Mother! Mother! Save me! Save me!" and Fung Yee stood helplessly there and cried "Bit Man! Mother will save you! Mother will save you!" and she fell to the grown, kneeling and crying as the fire engulfed the place and we last saw Uncle Cheung Fatt standing next to Bit Man as Bit Man began to faint and probably die first from the smoke rather than burnt to death and then the place burnt and burnt as Fung Yee looked on, kneeling and crying "Uncle Cheung Fatt!! Save my Bit Man! Uncle Cheung Fatt! Save my Bit Man! Bit Man!!" but of course Uncle Cheung Fatt himself perished in the fire.

Pause here.

Put on fire also cannot do properly! Bit Man is useless. Not sad at all at his death. But I feel a tinge of sadness for old foolish Uncle Cheung Fatt. He may have been a dog but at the end he spoke human language as he scolded Bit Man. He truly loved Bit Man, so did Fung Yee but stupid Bit Man was just too stupid to acknowledge that. As for Fung Yee, I do feel sorry for her. Everything she did she did it for Bit Man, all blind love and her selfishness in the end killed her son because she never taught him well.

In the morning the new official came to take down the facts of the robbery when 2 workers rushed in and Bo Kei already knew there was a fire that night and Bit Ching asked "Is everyone ok?" and the workers said "We found 2 charred bodies!" and worried Bit Ching cried "Who were they?!" and the workers said "All of us are accounted for. We don't know who they are!"

Suddenly Fung Yee came, dirty, hair very very messy and angrily she pointed at Bo Kei and shouted "You! You she devil! You evil bitch!" and everyone looked at her, not realising why she looked like that, so they all kept quiet as Fung Yee ranted "You and I are meant to destroy one another! You are my unlucky star! You are meant to do me harm and I to you! The moment you stepped into this house, I knew you will destroy all our lives! You killed Husband. You killed 2nd sister! You killed 3rd sister! And now.. you have hurt me! You win! YOU WIN!!" and Bo Kei stil didn't quite get what she wanted as Hing shouted "Get out! You're not welcomed here!" but Bit Ching said "Let her be" and he said it gently, not knowing what is going on as Fung Yee ranted on as she walked around aimlessly and crying "You, Bit Ching... you're smart, you're capable but unfortunately you're not the first born! My Bit Man, he was first born..."

I said WAS as we know he is dead but in Chinese there is no grammar so Bo Kei and gang didn't know yet she ranted because of grief over Bit Man's death

"... he was born as the eldest grandchild of this family. He was a good boy, a very good boy! My Bit Man was a good boy!! He was to inherit the fortune! But you! You, Hong Bo Kei, you took away my everything. Why did you take away his fortune and his birth right? Why did you mean him so much harm? Haven't I said if you want to hurt, you hurt me, it is our war, not the young ones, why did you hurt Bit Man? Why did you take away my Bit Man?!!" and Bit Ching was like "What do you mean first mother?" and Fung Yee cried "Have you lost a lot of treasures last night? It was Pang Hang and his men. And he taught Bit Man to burn down the warehouse! My Bit Man was trapped and killed in the fire, and you didn't even let go of Uncle Cheung Fatt! You cursed us all!!" and now everyone realise what was going on as Bit Ching held onto Fung Yee and asked "First mother, what did you say about brother? What did you say?!" and Fung Yee said "I am the first lady of this house! You're just nothing! A nobody! You took away my position! You took away my Bit Man!" and she dragged the old servants to her, probably knew them very well as she cried and they cried too "Tell this woman! Tell her how evil she is! Tell her!" but none did although they cried out of pity for her as Bo Kei was crying hard too as Fung Yee looked at her and sneered "Is that tears for me? I don't need your pity! You're a hypocrite! Those are fake tears! I curse you Hong Bo Kei! I curse you all! I curse that the grandchild you will soon have shall die at birth! I curse you and everyone of you! Curse you all!! I didn't lose! I didn't lose at all! Never!!" as she stumbled out of the house and Bo Kei said nothing, she just stood there and cried hard.

Pause here.

A dramatic and long scene but a necessary one. I kinda pity Fung Yee until she cursed Ah Man and her child but understandably so. She was overcome by grief.

Life goes on. Later we found out Pang Hang was arrested and charged. What exactly happened I do not know.

Bo Kei, Bit Ching visited grandma now on wheelchair and she looked surprisingly cheerful so maybe she didn't know Bit Man died? They were thinking names for the baby soon to be born and amazingly Ah Man is only THREE MONTHS PREGNANT! ONLY 3 months?! Old lady said "I know this pregnancy will bear our family a pair of dragon and phoenix children (as in twin boy and girl combo) because the Heaven knows I love sons whilst Cheung Kiu, after 3 sons wanted a daughter and he had done so much charitable causes, the heavens can't deny his small request!" and she named the son as "Tou" and I suppose "Cheung Bit Tou", something along the line of honour and integrity. My young nephew said "Bit Tou? MUST ESCAPE!" which is kinda true. So Must Escape shall he be! Then Bo Kei saw an old lady in white sweeping the temple's floor, her hair mostly white/black/grey, she looked older and she turned and it was Fung Yee! Grandma said "She found her way here. She now spends her day sweeping floors and helping the temple. Not a bad thing really..." as Bit Ching said "Grandma, her hair..." and she said "It was like that when she arrived". True. Fung Yee had black hair, she kept her looks youthful I suppose but now she is a bit dressed down. Fung Yee looked at Bo Kei, Bo Kei looked back and Fung Yee gave a small smile and walked away.

Yeap, Fung Yee has officially gone loco = crazy = insane because if she was sane no way in hell she would smile at Bo Kei. Grief overcame her and relieved her of her pain through insanity. Not a bad thing indeed.

Reopening of the shop and there were merriment around the shop as everyone cried SPEECH! SPEECH! and Bo Kei walked to the front and said "Everyone, Master Cheung and I once had this conversation; we said if our shop was to be on fire, who would come to help us? No one we concluded. But the workers here would help one person. Guess who?" and everyone guessed and Bo Kei said "Cheung Bit Ching!".

True. The workers really like him.

Bit Ching came forward and Bo Kei handed him the keys and said "The entire Hing Fung Nin is now yours. Take very good care of it! Everyone, serve Bit Ching as you served Master Cheung and myself! Dear friends (merchants) do teach this young one the ropes of the business, guide him well" and everyone said ok and she went to the lion dance troupe and Bit Ching looked at her back and said in his mind "4th mother, you have always said "Man Yi Sik Wai Tin" (which I suppose can be roughly translated as The people value above all else food which kinda means most important element in a person's life is never to be hungry" and I will always remember that. I will take all you have taught me and I will take good care of Hing Fung Nin. I promise. Father, I will make you proud. I promise. Mother... I will be both like you and 4th mother, both kind and resilient. I promise..."

Meanwhile Chai Gau was coughing hard again. Dr Brown said "I propose we take you to Shanghai. There is a medical facility there that may ease your disease" and so Chai Gau was carried to the river with a boat waiting for him. Bo Kei, Bit Ching, No. 2, and everyone was there. Hoi Tong held Chai Gau as he weakly walked to the boat and he looked hard at Bo Kei as Bo Kei said "Remember to come back Chai Gau, come back and we shall run the business together like we used to" and Chai Gau nodded weakly although in his eyes he knew that was impossible. As he was carried to the boat with Dr Brown and Hoi Tong, everyone said goodbye as Hoi Tong said gently "Chai Gau, it is cold out here. Let's go into the boat" but Chai Gau's eyes was fixed on Bo kei who was fixed on his and he said "No, I wish to stay here until the boat sails" and Hoi Tong looked at both of them and knew what she had to do. She stepped out of the boat, walked to Bo Kei and quietly said "Dr Brown said the facility might help but the chances for Chai Gau to survive long is very low. I think he wishes to live the rest of his days with someone he loves most, and that is you 4th Madam. Will you accompany him on this trip?" and BO Kei was crying and she looked at Chai Gau who just looked back hard at her as Bit Ching said "4th mother, go, don't worry about us and the business" as Hoi Tong said "I will have your stuff sent to you later" and Bo kei looked at Hoi Tong and Chai Gau and nodeed tearfully and walked towards the boat.

2 years later...

Bo kei was on a rattan sedan leading the way of carts of white rice being pulled into a poor looking village and there was the single most amazing person in this series, the kawaii grandma still very much alive greeting Bo Kei who greeted back with a smile. She then took a walk by the cliff and saw a high tall stone erected there with a long message in red. She read it and it said as we see flashbacks;

"This memorial is to commemorate and celebrate the short but eventful life of Chai Gau, our great benefactor and a man of outstanding virtue and fortitude. He came to the city with nothing and he worked his way up at Hing Fung Nin, from supervisor to 3rd manager and he then tookover the management of the association and ran the business. He helped save the town of Mo Sek, and even became an official for some time. Together with his "Ji Kei" (now it would mean the love of his life), the 4th Madam of Hing Fung Nin, Hong Bo Kei, he gave a lasting memory to the people of Mo Sek with his righteousness and his quick thinking. When his Ji Kei was missing, he went in search of her, thus contracting a terrible disease, TB. He was very sick and moved to Shanghai to seek treatment"

and we see Bo kei and Chai Gau at Shanghai together and smiling happily, taking pictures together, Bo kei taking care of Chai Gau...

"The disease was fought hard and Chai Gau managed to extend his life for a further 2 years with his Ji Kei by his side at every step of the way but unfortunately in the end he lost his battle against the disease and he passed away peacefully with his Ji Kei by his side, with a smile on his face" and we are shown Chai Gau dying smiling on a hospital bed as Bo Kei held his hand and cried.

"Chai Gau had lived the life following his favourite saying; "How many decades does one has, live life to the fullest, seize the day!"

TRUE!!

"Chai Gau was only 35 years old"

The last scene we see was Bo Kei and Chai Gau sitting on a field together, not very close but not far apart, looking and smiling at each other and then looking at the sunset together.

THE END.

Let me take a moment here...

DAMN! NO HUG!

Anyway ...

I felt like crying at the last scene. But Chai Gau died a happy man. No indication they married or even consummated the relationship. They're not best friends and yet not lovers and yet they love each other deeply, I would say they're soulmates. I like the ending even if it is sad. Chai Gau had a happy end. I thought he would die immediately but luckily and wisely the script gave him 2 years, enough for him to spend his dying days with Bo Kei who too found solace and love in that 2 years. Sad but a great ending. And I love the memorial, well written and so badly translated by me because I can't remember every words.

So Chai Gau was 35 when he died. Probably the whole event from 1st episode to last was 5 years so he met Bo Kei when he was 35. If Bo Kei was 15 and missing for 20 odd years, she would have have almost 40 when she met Chai Gau and a further 5 years, she would have been about 45 and above when he died, as in late forties. So their age difference would have been more than 10 years. I would Bo Kei probably was pushing 50, so the difference was 15 years or so, less 2 years I think. Nowhere was their age differences mentioned or was it a taboo. I think I like that approach. Let me think about that first because I will express more in my review later.

As for performances, I too shall write more in my review but let's just say, Wayne Lai rules.

SAFE GUARDS SAMENESS

SAME! Very very same! The scene where Fong left a letter, same! Even some words seem same as well!! But somehow Safe Guards was sadder because Cheung Chi Kwong was a far better actor in expressing grief than Ron Ng.

Before I end my final posting for this page, I would like to say thank you to all for reading and commenting. I enjoyed your responses, even the silent ones because I know more than 3 were reading this blog and I hope you enjoyed reading the recap as much as I have writing them.

And now before I end this final recap, my choice for most favourite line because it was the final line and because it was such a sad line as 35 years was such a short time on earth and yet he did so many things...

"Chai Gau was only 35 years old"

- The nameless, faceless narrator to us the viewers

THANK YOU FOR READING!!

EPISODE 24

2010-06-16T23:55:00.001+08:00

A very sad episode in so many ways. And also a rather dumb episode in some ways. And as usual an interesting end which is satisfying. After so many episodes I finally figured out Mo Sek the town is Wuxi, like the Wuxi pork ribs!

Recap...

Chai Gau saw Pang Hang who saw him and as Chai Gau snarled, Pang Hang tried to run. Chai Gau then went on shouting "4th madam! 4th madam!" and Pang Hang stopped and shouted "You're looking for 4th Madam?" and Chai Gau said "Yes, you seen her?" and Pang Hang said "Yes I did" and Chai Gau shouted "Tell me where she is!!" and Pang Hang said "Do you have money on you? Give me your money and I will tell you" and Chai Gau gave him a jade necklace and said "This is all I have on me. Where is she?" and Pang Hang said "She is at the infirmary, the place for the sick. I saw her there, her leg blown off and she lays dying from her wounds begging for help" and Pang Hang walked away smirking, clearly he was lying but Chai Gau believed him and ran to the infirmary, surrounded by the sick, coughing and dying where some even splurt blood on him as he went "4th madam! 4th madam" and knowing she wasn't there, finally he left, looking until nightfall when he saw a familiar hand underneath a door and went there and found Bo Kei, unconcious and very hurt. He carried her immediately to the church screaming "Dr Brown!! Dr Brown!!!"

Meanwhile Bit Man, dog, Fung Yee and Pang Hang came running out, Bit Man with his hair in pigtail again and Pang Hang now dressed cleanly waving the imperial flag screaming "We welcome our liberator, our imperial army! We welcome our liberator, our imperial army!" and who to march in but that corrupted governer whose name until now I still do not care to know. Is it Lee? Yes a quick check, I shall call him Official Lee, I really do not know his rank which is why I use Governer and Official interchangeably. He walked in like some liberating hero and said "You have all suffered, I am truly sorry".

Chai Gau was sitting in the church and he was coughing violently. Then Bo Kei walked out, still weak as Chai Gau rushed to her and asked "How's your injury? You shouldn't walk around like this" and Bo Kei weakly answered "Dr Brown said my head is fine, just a bit dizzy, that's all" and Chai Gau sat stood there as Bo Kei remembered the past and chatted with Chai Gau "Remember when you were fired when you declared you were 4th Madam gang?" and Chai Gau laughed and said "I am still and forever will be 4th madam gang member!" and Bo Kei smiled and said "You are still speaking those mushy words! Remember what you said back then?" and she began to immitate Chai Gau and reiterated what Chai Gau said about his lowly status, the time when she fired him, ignored him and then rehired him after a well meaning heart to heart talk. Chai Gau smiled and then immitating Bo Kei he said what she said "Chai Gau, I was but a mere servant just months before..." and he said exactly her words until the sentence where Bo kei did say to him that he could rise up again and be a supervisor, 4th manager, 3rd manager, 2nd manager, and then bring to his village carts of sacks with white rice. Chai Gau smiled as he said all those when Bo kei suddenly looked at him seriously with tears brimming in her eyes and asked "Why then Chai Gau did you come back?! Why did you come back at all? You could have been safe with Hoi Tong at the rebel's territory, you could have been saved, so why did you come back?!" and Chai Gau looked at her, not smiling as they both knew the answer. Then the imperial guards burst inside the church and the official Lee ordered "4th Madam, Chai Gau, you're both under arrest for treason!!" but Bo kei and Chai Gau ignored them, they're in their own world as Bo kei said with tears "Chai Gau, I promise you I will instruct Bit Ching to carry the cart load of sacks of white rice back to your village!" and Chai Gau with tears in eyes looked gratefully at her as this was his final wish and when he tried to speak, the guards wanted to arrest him and he pushed him away shouting "Can't I finish my sentence?" and then he looked at Bo Kei and said softly but with conviction in what I believe to be a Titanic moment where he said "4th Madam, you will not die. You will survive this. You will see the birth of your grandchildren, and your grandchildren's children, you will live to a ripe old age. No 4th Madam, you will not die, not just yet!" as she looked at him gratefully and they were dragged away by the guards.

Pause here.

This to me is a beautiful poignant scene, what started as a memory trip that ended with again sort of a confession of love through actions. I think Bo Kei truly love Chai Gau who was always there for her, not merely just feeling grateful but of course this was spoilt by the fact that the development was too sudden. The hints should have been there much earlier for consistency, but it was a lovely scene, as Bo Kei looked at him with tears and questioned him when she knew the answer; because he loves her and her promise to him as his final wish was also rather sad. The way he said what he said with conviction, that Titanic moment made me believe Chai Gau till his last breath will protect her. So we shall see how he does just that since they're both arrested for treason. They both knew that they would die even when they were conferred the positions by the rebel assistant. It felt sad and heartfelt, their exchange and I must say beautifully acted by Sheren Tang and definitely Wayne Lai. I may have wondered their compatibility but that scene, sort of convinces me they could play lovers. Love Wayne Lai in this scene, the way he looked at her as she asked "por qué?". Sorry, World Cup fever!! por qué? means Why in Spanish.

Bit Ching and Fong rushed to that sleazy official and offered gifts in exchange for perhaps freedom of Bo Kei and Chai Gau, which is ridiculous because we all know that ain't gonna happen when they saw Bit Man, dog and Fung Yee standing there and Bit Man said "Well sir, then it's a deal, 30% then!"

Ermm I can't remember the number so I just put 30%.

Official nodded and Bit Ching asked "What are you talking about?" and Bit Man said "Well I will be taking over Hing Fung Nin and Official Lee here wants to do business and so I invited him to join Hing Fung Nin in exchange of 30% shares of the business!" and Bit Ching said angrily "The business is not for you to divide! I am the sucessor!" and was it Fung Yee that said "Husband in his will said clearly; Bo Kei to run the business until such time it shall be given to Bit Man and since Bo Kei is arrested for treason and soon to be beheaded, naturally Bit Man now takes over the business" and Bit Ching or Fong, can't remember who argued "Bit Man has been disowned in the 2nd will!!" and definitely Fong shouted angrily "You disgusting people! You, Official Lee, my husband has been a friend of yours for decades, assisting you and helping you, and this is how you repay his friendship? I will swear to you all, I will not rest until I get 4th sister released! The people will never support you! If you don't let her go, I will complain to the state and if they won't listen I will go all the way to the imperial court! I will make sure someone listens to me!!!" and so she and Bit Ching angrily left. Fung Yee smiled sinisterly and said to Official Lee; "I think you should denounce the effect of the 2nd will" and Official Lee agreed.

Pause here.

SUCH DISGUSTING PEOPLE!!

Bo Kei, in prison and hair messy was visited by Hoi Tong and Father Brown. Bo Kei thought Hoi Tong has escaped but Hoi Tong said sadly "The rebels wouldn't let me go so I sneaked out when I reached their place. I had to come back to Chai Gau" and Bo kei asked "How is Chai Gau?" and Hoi Tong with tears welled up said sadly "He is very sick. He is coughing very hard" and Bo Kei asked "What happened?" and Hoi Tong said "He went looking for you at the infirmary and there he contracted the disease!" and Bo kei was shocked as Father Brown explained "I am afraid there isn't much I could do for Chai Gau" as Bo kei began to cry softly. Chai Gau I believe contracted TB. The symptoms are there and even now people do die of TB, more so back then. So Chai Gau's fate is doomed. Either he dies of TB first or from beheading. Father Brown turned to leave and he said sadly "4th Madam, may the Lord protects you"

Official Lee came and ordered Bo kei to sign a confession to make life easier and Bo kei said "I want to see Chai Gau!" and he refused her request and warned "If you do not sign, I will have you tortured!" and still she demanded "I want to see Chai Gau or you can torture all you want, I will not sign anything!" and he reluctantly agreed. What a failed interrogater! She then hastily signed the confession and walked out.

Chai Gau was in a prison cell too, and he was coughing very very hard, blood on the cloth! Bo Kei walked in and he said between coughs "4th Madam, please don't come near me, this disease is contagious" and so Bo Kei stood by the door, looking at him, almost crying. Chai Gau smiled and said "4th madam, do not worry about me. I thought Hoi Tong has escaped but imagine how lucky I was to have opened my eyes in here and saw her standing before me. I have Hoi Tong back with me! As for you, as I have said before, you will live to a ripe old age, you will not die in prison. I will not die in prison. I will bring sacks of rice back to my village and when I do die at my village, the villagers will honour me and build me a simple tombstone. Oh no, we will not die in here at all" but his back was facing her and she was in tears whilst he sounded optimistic but his face, not facing her was of pure sadness as he knew he was going to die soon, probably from the disease. Bo Kei faced his back...

and here I wished she would rushed to him and hug him from behind. She didn't. Not very acceptable to do that in the past but now I am sure she would hug him hard as she cried.

Anyway she said gently "Chai Gau, please turn around and look at me... please..."

and he composed himself and turned to face her, looking less sad and Bo Kei looked into his eyes for a long time and then said simply "I have to go now" and so she left.

DAMN! ONE HUG WON'T DIE!!

Official Lee walked out and it was raining and the entire street there was everyone kneeling and Bit Ching holding in his hands he said "Sir, this is a petition for the release of 4th Madam! She is the pride of Mo Sek, our benefactor and she has helped us more than we have asked for! Release her! She is innocent of all charges levied against her!" and everyone screamed "RELEASE 4th MADAM!!" but Official Lee warned them all to leave or else.. and the people, men, women, old and young, rich and poor charged forward and there was chaos!

Fong at home and Bit Ching said "This won't do! We must send this petition to the Lord Prince himself. Only he can help 4th mother now..." but I think it was Hing who said "But Lord Prince is in the middle of the war zone right now, it is far too dangerous for you to go!" but Bit Ching said "I have to go or else 4th mother will surely die!" and that was that.

Later Hing came by to see Fong and she said "My good in laws, I may sound selfish but I can't let Bit Ching go for this suicical mission. My Ah Man is pregnant, she needs him here more than ever" and Fong said "I know, but Bit Ching is very determined" and Hing said "Not if...." and Fong looked at her curiously.

Next morning, Bit Ching woke up and was ready to go when he was told by Ah Man that Fong and Hing were missing and Bit Ching couldn't find the show with hidden dagger and Man asked "What does that mean?" and Bit Ching said "Mother was a security guard and everytime she leaves for work she would wear the shoe with dagger..." and he quickly rushed to follow their trail with his trustee servant (NOT THE DOG!!) but the people doing business by the forest said they had left early in the morning and the servant said "Master, that means they're too far ahead of us, we can't keep up!" and Bit Ching knew it was too late to stop them.

Fong and Hing did managed to reach Lord Prince who read the long petition and a look of sympathy was on his face as he said "I understand Bo Kei's predicament and I too do not believe she is a traitor. I know her well and that is not her" and Fong and Hing were happy to hear that but Lord Prince said sadly "As much as I am very touched by you two coming here even in the face of danger, I am sorry I could be of no help to your cause" and they were shocked and asked "WHY?" and Lord Prince said "I may still have my title and I may look like I am still in power but I am just a mere puppet right now. I have lost consecutively 4 wars and the Emperor is not pleased with me. I hardly yield anymore influence in the empire, I am very sorry. Please return to Mo Sek, I will have some guards to protect you along the way"

So sad!!! How can?!

Anyway Fong and Hing left feeling very sad when suddenly there were bombs hitting them nearby and Hing fell. Fong rushed to her, held her hand and cried "RUN!!!!"

Bo Kei in prison and Official Lee came, smiled and said "I have orders to execute you after 3 days. As I am compassionate, I have decided to allow you to go home to your family for 3 days after which we will come to take you back for execution. As for Chai Gau, he has been released for that 3 days as well"

Bo kei looked at him wearily and said "Then can I go now?" and he said smilingly "Yes please do".

She walked out of the prison and was greeted by many well wishers, all villagers and also the rice merchants who all said "4th Madam! You've suffered much!" and they ushered her to the rattan sedan although Bit Ching and gang weren't there. The Cheung servant said "4th Madam, you must thank the merchants for this 3 days release. They threatened the official that if you're not released for these 3 days, they will close shops and move elsewhere. And they have presented this petition to the Lord Prince.." and she took the heavy petition and opened it as they carried her home and she read (and we do see flashbacks)...

"I am a resident of Mo Sek and I have been given the honour to draft this petition where we are petitioning for the release of Hing Fung Nin's 4th Madam. Before there was 4th Madam, my family and I were too poor to buy rice because of the excessive transporation fee charged by Pang Hang. But then there was 4th Madam, a mere woman who dared to stand up to the oppressive Pang Hang and demanded him to lower his fees. From thereon I could afford white rice for my family. Then there was the attack of the locusts and no one did anything but 4th Madam, again a mere woman took charge and again saved us from a disaster. The rebels came in and a mere woman, she could have packed her bags and run with her fortune but she stayed with us and weather the storm together. She bravely accepted the position given by the rebels when she knew full well the consequences, again for us, the people of Mo Sek. 4th Madam is indeed a one of a kind woman, she has shown herself as someone brave, honourable and with integrity who thought of herself but of Mo Sek as a whole. She is a good person. She should not have been arrested in the first place. I will never understand the logic why such a good person should be beheaded. Please spare her her life. Signed XX on behalf of the people of Mo Sek"

Bo Kei cried as she read the hearfelt plea for her life and along the way she was overcome by exhaustion and fell asleep. She reached home and she was woken up and she opened her eyes and the first thing she saw at the front door were white/blue lanterns that connote someone in the family has died. Shocked, she cried "Who died?! WHO DIED?!" and no one dared answer her and so she ran in and saw Bit Ching, Man, Mo and Hing crying over a figure that was Fong. Bo Kei hugged her tightly and cried hysterically "I just left for a few days!! Why 3rd sister has died?! WHY?! SOMEONE EXPLAIN TO ME?! and Hing explained...

"There were bombs everywhere ..." Flashback...

Fong took Hing's hands and ran fast when Hing fell down and Fong way ahead ran back to hold her up to her feet and cried "RUN!!!" when suddenly like Pang Kiu's situation, a bomb dropped near Fong and she was blasted forward. Hing rushed to her and cried "Fong! Fong!" as Fong slowly closed her eyes and died.

DAMN THE BOMBS!!!

Bo Kei cried very very hard, knowing Fong sacrificed herself for her.

Pause here.

Don't know why, I pitied Mo who was holding onto Hing, crying. He has lost his father, then his mother, now another mother, and potentially another mother, he was like an orphan 3 times over. Really pitied him.

At home Bit Man, Fung Yee and dog brought I think 2 other stranger to the rice warehouse and Bit Man instructed the workers there who looked at him wearily "These 2 are relatives of official lee and they would be joining us as Hing Fung Nin shareholders. You will all listen to them and we shall all work together to rebuild Hing Fung Nin" but the workers didn't look too happy as Bit Ching came in and rushed over and said "Don't listen to these dogs and this useless unfilial son! There will be no change at Hing Fung Nin, I am running the company" and Bit Man arrogantly said "You all better listen to me if you want to continue to work here and take Hing Fung Nin's salary!" and no one answered him and he grabbed one worker and said "YOU LISTEN TO ME!!" but the worker was silent and stony faced, then another who bravely said "I'd rather quit then!!" and all of them cried "YEAH!!" and Bit Man was very angry but Bit Ching looked at them gratefully as they said "Master, with permission, we would like to pay our respect to 3rd Madam" and Bit Ching "Yes, let us all go together" and they simply ignored Bit Man. Fung Yee said to the potential investors "Look what we have to deal with?"

Bit Man and Fung Yee are so disgusting!!! What makes them think the workers will listen to them? If I were Bit Ching, I just fold up the business and go away since Bit Man is disowned already. And then reopen the shops later. I am sure Mo Sek would understand.

3 days has passed and Lord Prince arrived to pay respect for Fong. He was warmly welcomed when suddenly official Lee came with the 3 stooges tagging along and said "Hong Bo Kei, 3 days has passed. Follow me now!"

Meanwhile, not long before that, Chai Gau was coughing badly. He asked Father Brown "How is my disease?" and Father Brown said "I will not lie to you. There is no cure. You're dying and there is not much I can do" and Chai Gau simply nodded when No. 2 walked in and Chai Gau said "Brother please, wear your mask!" and he covered his face (everyone else did cover their faces) No. 2 told Chai Gau what is happening at Cheung mansion. Chai Gau coughing hard stood up as Hoi Tong said "Chai Gau, you must rest! You can't leave like this! You're very sick!" but Chai Gau was determined to save Bo kei, once again. As he walked there, he coughed hard, blood on his handkerchief.

Meanwhile at Cheung Mansion, Official Lee wanted to arrest Bo Kei again, he kinda ignored Lord Prince who was sitting down with his eyes closed, face not registering any emotion when suddenly Chai Gau coughed very hard and his voice boomed "ON WHAT CHARGES?!" and everybody avoided him as he coughed and he stood in the middle, cloth covering his face as official Lee said "For treason of course!" and Chai Gau shouted "What treason? What act of treason have 4th madam and I committed?" and Chai Gau walked to the Lord Prince, still eyes closed and he said very gently "My Lord, I am sorry I have to reveal the truth here"

What truth? Ahhhh the cleverness of Chai Gau!!

Chai Gau said "What act of treason? 4th Madam and I were actually spies for the imperial dynasty, appointed by his Lordship himself! 4th Madam, remember what happened to that rebel assistant? Remember what he said to us in the study room?" and Bo Kei catching Chai Gau's meaning came forward and said "He said the imperial army will soon enter Mo Sek and we will all be killed!" and Chai Gau said "And what did she do? 4th Madam took a pistol and shot that rebel through the head!!"

True, who is to tell otherwise? There was Chai Gau and Bo Kei and the rebel and his men and I presume his men all died and so only Chai Gau and Bo Kei would know.

"We were actually spies who risked our lives for the glorious emperor!!!" and Bit Man and gang shouted "NO WAY!! LIAR!!" and Chai Gau angrily said " We are liars? Guess who are the liars? Brother.." he gestured No. 2 and he immediately pulled Bit Man's hair which came lose and revealed the rebel's favoured hairstyle and there was gasps as Chai Gau thundered "HE IS THE TRAITOR!! Even before the rebels came into Mo Sek, he had already cut his hair!!!" and Pang Hang screamed "You're such a liar! You're the one who served the rebels!"

Pause here.

Pang Hang was very funny here as he spoke he covered his face and yet wanted to gesture with his hands!

Chai Gau walked near Pang Hang and said "And who was the one who claimed to be brothers with that rebel assistant? PANG HANG!! How you 2 wore the same trousers, ate from the same plate, grew up together! You enjoyed your good times whilst with the rebel and I? I was forced to work in the infirmary, serving the sick which caused me to contract this disease which I am dying from!!" as Chai Gau repeatedly coughed onto his face as Pang Hang kept trying to talk and cover his mouth and Pang Hang shouted "LIAR! I WAS THE ONE WHO WORKED THERE! I WAS THE ONE WHO WAS SENT THERE!!" and he rushed to Dr Brown and said "You! You are a priest! You can't lie. You were there to treat the sick and you saw me there! Tell the truth!!" and Dr Brown look at him defiantly and said loudly "I DIDN'T SEE YOU AT ALL!" and Pang Hang snarled "You liar! Your god will punish you!" and Dr Brown retorted "My god will punish only bad people, not good people!".

Then Chai Gau angrily said "When Mo Sek fell to the rebels, where were you?" pointing at the official. "You and your wives and your children and your fortune have all left earlier!" and Official said to the guards "Arrest him!" but Chai Gau angrily gestured at the guards and said "You were not here to fight with Mo Sek as well! Don't you dare touch me!" and Chai Gau screamed "How may decades does one have? Oust these bastards!" or something like that and the merchants and all shouted after Chai Gau and Official Lee came forward and said "What proof you have that you were a spy for us? Where is the evidence?!" and Lord Prince finally opened his eyes and came between them and spoke "I am the proof, I am the evidence" and the official arrogantly said "With due respect my Lord, we all know you have lost all your influence, who are you for us to believe you?" and Lord Prince said "Am I to report to you everything I discuss with the emperor? Am I to report when I sleep, eat or what and when I do anything? Who are you to have me report to you?" and the official gulped a little and said "I don't believe you!" and Lord Prince snarled "Does it matter if you do? Don't you forget I still have relatives in high places. Shall I get the opinion of my --- or my --- or maybe ---?" and he was saying ranks and names of high ranking officials. Idiot isn't he? He may have lost favour but god damn it, he is still a royalty with many relatives!!

And Chai Gau and all screamed the name of one high ranking official and the official Lee gulped even more as Bit Man, FUng Yee, Pang Hang and everyone else looked on.

Next episode, Bit Man sets fire to some building and dies in it as Fung Yee collapsed to the ground in grief.

The official is darn stupid. Fantastic last scene and a bit kudos to Chai Gau for standing up for Bo Kei. What will Bo Kei do without Chai Gau? Even coughing he could still command fear and he really scolded them well. And he may have twisted the facts but who are the others to argue? I love how Dr Brown retaliated as well! Very funny scene. Well written, dramatic but still logically dramatic. The Lord Prince can now use Mo Sek as his success story, how he planted 2 spies that prevented a massacre in Mo Sek, etc!

I love the sentimentality of this episode as well as the confrontation.

A big kudos again to Wayne Lai's excellent performance as Chai Gau who somehow could inject this rather romantic side of Chai Gau as he told Bo Kei how she would survive this and he kept his promise.

Sheren Tang was wonderful too, her tiredness, her weariness, her grief, he admiration for Chai Gau, etc. Her eyes spoke volumes, so was her expression.

Lee Sing Cheung however almost stole the show in the confrontation scene. He can be both disgusting, vile and hateful and yet darn funny and cute. I love the way he held his sword and when Wayne walked near, he dropped his sword quickly and covered his mouth with the thin strip of cloth that is his belt! Brilliant performances and I hate Pang Hang!

Kara Wai may have died but he death scene was effective. Same as Kiki Sheung but as sad. But I thought Kiki Sheung's death scene was more dramatic, more sadder probably because I have a soft spot for Mo.

Pierre Ngo and Susan Tse had little to do here and frankly I am bored with their unchanging characters. But good performance though.

Ron Ng... I am not convinced now that Bit Ching is a good businessman. A bit of crisis and he will start holding the shoulers of the other person, shaking them as he hunched and deliver his lines. Hardly threatening, hardly authoritative. He was more begging than giving orders. Look at Wayne Lai; stood up straight as he delivered punch after punch. Ron Ng is just terribly inadequate.

KWok Fung was brilliant. What more can I say?

Ahhhh yes...

SAMEGUARD SAMENESS

Reveal of the short hair of Bit Man, in Safe Guards much earlier, in here almost the end. And poor Kara Wai, she was also in Safe Guards who died protecting the people she cared about. Except I would say her death in Safe Guards was even more dramatic and sadder even if by sword instead of bombs. Same same same.

Ok, I am going to be sad. Tomorrow is the last episode, I know Chai Gau will die and I am getting ready for his grand death scene. Grand as in perhaps a sort of finality to his life. I know I am giving away a bit spoiler but Dr Brown says Chai Gau is dying from TB and so we all know he will die. I just hope before his death, he gets a hug from Bo kei. Just one hug, this man deserves that after all he had done for her. He is like her knight in shining armour, her protector... oh dear, I am feeling sad as I typed these. Why Chai Gau? Why him? Kill Bo Kei! Let Chai Gau survive and assist Bit Ching! Bo kei should be the one dying!

Anyway, favourite quote, too many but had to choose one...

"My god will punish only bad people, not good people!"

- Dr Brown to Pang Hang

EPISODE 23

2010-06-15T23:55:00.000+08:00

A recap first ...

Chai Gau shouted at the top of his lungs as he whipped Pang Hang;

"Anyone with any sort of sense would want you deadddddddddddddddddd!!!!!!!!!!!"

but rebel assistant whose name I shall not bother to learn since this is last appearance anyway said "Chai Gau, you have said enough. I promise everyone here that I will investigate and give you all a proper answer" and he looked at Bo Kei and said "4th Madam, I trust you will inform me when that prince writes to you again" and Bo Kei said "Yes I will"and he left with Pang Hang following saying "Sir, please listen to me, I can explain..." whilst Fung Yee, dog and Bit Man all walked away. The merchants were on Chai Gau's side and said thanks and all and Bo Kei too said thanks to Chai Gau who then walked away as she looked at him with I suppose thankful eyes? Longing eyes? I still don't buy the romance part yet. Fong and everybody was overjoyed with Bo Kei's release.

Revenge time. Chai Gau and his men moved in to arrest Pang Hang who hid under the covers of his bed. To give him credit he did faced his humiliation like a man. Anyway he said "Go on! Take what you all came for! Take them all!!" and they took his fortune.

Pause here.

Kinda unfair. Ok, so he monopolises BUT the merchants did agreed to pay the sum he earned. He did earned them through transporation work. No indication of those being bribe moneys, so how come his fortune can be taken away so easily? Just because the merchants struck a bad bargain with him as to the fees does not negate the existence of a contract in itself. Caveat Emptor? The principle of BUYER BEWARE. So I kinda feel for Pang Hang, even if he totally deserved it all.

Anyway Chai Gau had another idea of punishment. He said "Bring me 3 bones, I don't care dog bones or pork bones" and the 2 assistants that were formerly Pang Hang's assistant (one forever holding an umbrella, the other a fan) did so. Pang Hang looked at them and snarled "You traitors". Chai Gau made Pang Hang bite on one bone, like some 2 years before I think when Chai Gau suffered the same fate. Interestingly Pang Hang was allowed to keep his sunglasses on so he looked humiliated but cool humiliated. The 2 assistants laughed and Chai Gau looked at them and said "You 2 are such hypocrites. I remember you 2... you two each take a bone and join Pang Hang!" and they were liked "WHAT?!" and so Pang Hang looked at left and right, I suppose a satisfying smile and began to yelp like a dog and run on all fours. Not wanting to be beaten, he tried to run faster than them 2. Later the 3 of them were put to work in shackles, distributing rice to the sick at the infirmary.

Meanwhile Bo Kei and Chai Gau were met by the assistant rebel who asked them politely "How can I ensure this town (as in Mo Sek or Marble? Is Mo Sek = Marble?) is happy and properous? That the shops will reopen and there will be less beggars?" and Bo Kei said "There is a simple solution sir. Ensure that every citizen has 4 ounces (or is it pounds? 4 LEONG in cantonese, I will just use ounces and I stand to be corrected) of white rice each day, they will be happy and life would return to normal" and the assistant was taken aback as he said "How then can we pay for these rice?"

Yeah lor, how ah Bo Kei? Hing Fung Nin give huge discounts? Give free rice?

Chai Gau said "I remember there were some money confiscated from the imperial treasury of this town. Use those money to buy the rice" and assistant said "No no no, those are funding for the frontline" but Bo Kei insisted, the assistant kept saying "No, no, no, can't do" and so the matter was left at that. Then he was asked for dinner and he asked for noodles and said "I am afraid I am still not used to the local delicacies here, I do miss my village's meals" and Bo Kei who knew where he came from said "I know how to cook those; allow me to cook for you" and the assistant said no but Bo Kei insisted.

Bo Kei sat down in the study room to write her diaries. She revealed a happy news; "This is about 1st sister, I heard some commotion and saw her, Bit Man and Uncle Cheung Fatt carrying a box they dug out and left the mansion. I have not seen nor heard from them since. And I am cooking for the rebel assistant almost everyday, together with Chai Gau and I had a good time. I am happy to note Chai Gau has matured. He no longer thinks of himself like he used to in the past, but rather he thinks of the town people, always trying to get the assistant to agree to my proposed rice distribution. As for the assistant, I have gotten to know him during these times and I find him to be noble, loyal and hardworking. He was earnest in his desire to better the lives of the citizens here and I find myself liking his attitude. However at times he can be very temperamental and moody. There was a time he became so moody I had to leave. However at most times he seems particularly cheerful despite the news I have heard to the contrary. The rebels are losing, the imperial army gaining power thanks to assistance from foreign forces (French being one of them as she narrated) which uses cannons that killed a lot of the rebels. The rebels' hold on the rebellion is losing ground, and yet the assistant reported nothing but good news. I am not sure if he is cheating himself but he seems hopeful"

The box was the one Fung Yee buried at the backyard for Bit Man's use much earlier. And Bo Kei seems to genuinely like that assistant, for whatever reason it may be. I find him moody and PMS-ing most of the time. I find him more moody and emotional than any woman.

Ah Man and Hing narrated they saw Fung Yee, sometime later. Hing said "She looked forlorn, almost spaced out. She didn't seem to notice us and all the whilst she was muttering to herself, mumbling about something to no one in particular"

Yeap, Fung Yee is going loco. Where else can she go anyway?

Rebel assistant summoned Chai Gau and Bo Kei and said happily "I have 2 great news. Your proposal for the distribution of rice has been approved and our dear Leader has decided to honour the benefactors of our great Godly cause and you two are to be appointed at our official governers of this town!" and Bo Kei and Chai Gau looked alarmed as Bo kei said "Sir, I am just a simple merchant. I know nothing of politics! I politely decline such a great offer" whilst Chai Gau said "Sir, I am just an uneducated ordinary man. I'm better at being chief of security than some official!" but rebel insisted they deserved the title when Bit Ching ran out and said "Sir, make me the official" as Bo Kei looked in shock as Bit Ching said "Sir, I am the heir apparent to Hing Fung Nin. Therefore this is an honour that should be bestowed on me. My 4th mother is just a guardian until such time I am fit and able to takeover the business and she is not of good health lately. Please let me take this honour as the successor of Hing Fung Nin" and assistant hesitated and said "You all think about it over night and inform me next day who will take up this post".

Bit Ching looked serious as Bo Kei walked into the dining room and Fong asked why the assistant was there and Bit Ching answered "4th mother, please surrender the keys and company seals now. I am the rightful successor, therefore I have the right to takeover now!" and Fong was very angry and shouted "How dare you say this! Haven't you know what your 4th mother has done for this family?!" and Ah Man also said "Husband how could you talk like that to 4th mother?" as Bit Ching said "Please return the keys so that I can take the position" and they all asked "What position?" and Bit Ching replied "4th mother was just bestowed with a position with the rebel government" and Man asked "Isn't that a good thing?" and Bit Ching answered "No, because the rebel army is losing. The imperial army will reclaim this town soon and I have never heard of the imperial army pardoning the officials appointed by the rebel government. In fact all of them were sentenced to death" and everyone looked scared as Bo Kei said "Bit Ching, who says the rebel government will surely lose? Don't be so pessimistic" but Bit Ching said "4th mother, let me take this position on your behalf, at least if the imperial army comes in, I am young, I can run away and become a fugitive, 4th mother you're not young anymore" but Bo Kei said "Don't say that, everything will be fine. Moreover if I take the position, at least my relationship with the prince will ensure my safety" but Bit Ching kneelt down and said humbly "4th mother, in the past you have weathered all storms for me. Everytime there is trouble, you were there for me to help me and save me. But now, let me do this for you. Let me grow up and take some respobsibilities, let me shoulder this burden for you"

Bit Ching truly is very noble.

Fong walked to Bo Kei and tearfully said "4th sister, I agree with Bit Ching. If you let him do it, I will immediately offer an incense to dear dead husband's altar and say proudly that Bit Ching has truly matured and grown up" and Ah Man said "4th mother, let Bit Ching do this. If worse comes to worse, I can run away with him" and Bo Kei was so pressured (even Hing agreed) that she said "Ok ok, let me think about it".

Pause here.

Bit Ching is such a wonderful guy. I like how he wants to shoulder the burden for Bo kei. BUT if Bo Kei alone does this, she alone will run. If Bit Ching does this, he, Man, Hing, and Fong had to run. It is a dead end sort of job and a job where the recipient will either run or die. The math doesn't add up for Bit Ching though.

Next day, assistant came and Bit Ching was ready to take the position when the assistant read the decree and appointed Bo kei. Everyone was shocked. Did Bo Kei secretly went and asked the assistant to name her? Not shown but I presume yes. Bo Kei was dressed in an awful low budget sort of unisex costume. Assistant left and Bit Ching asked "Why 4th mother? Why?" and Bo Kei smiled at him and said "Don't worry, everything will be fine" and Fong came over and cried hard "4th sister, I do not know how to thank you for what you're doing for Bit Ching!" and she cried very hard as everyone cried too, even the servants were crying.

Meanwhile Bo Kei met with Chai Gau who himself was dressed in a soft pink awful costume like those Ming + Mongolian sort of design and Chai Gau was smiling happily and said "Look at me! Someone like me, an official!!". He took it good naturedly and Bo kei too smiled and said "Indeed! And Chai Gau, look at your hat, it is askew!" and she corrected the hat and Chai Gau smiled. A very funny scene actually as these 2 knew they had been put on the spot and sad also because the consequence is death for sure when the imperial army comes in and they know the rebels lost the main war. Chai Gau laughed and as he smiled he said "4th madam, have you packed your stuff yet in a big box?" and Bo kei was like huh? and Chai Gau said "Well, better get ready with your luggage. The imperial army is coming in soon, we may have to run away at last minute's notice" and Bo Kei smiled rather happily as Chai Gau said all these good naturedly but we all know he was right and Bo kei said "Chai Gau, how can you say our great rebel government is going to fail? How dare you?!" as she mocked him good naturedly and they had a good laugh.

Diary time.

Bo Kei says excitedly "Ah Man is pregnant! Couldn't believe it that I will be a grandmother soon. I wonder what name I shall give the baby?"

But things aren't looking so good for the rebel leader.

Chai Gau and BO Kei were summoned but the assistant at that moment only wanted to see Bo Kei so Chai Gau said he will wait whilst Bo Kei knocked and went in and saw a very drunk and morose looking assistant. She asked "Sir, are you alright?" and the assistant drunkardly said "Ahhh 4th madam, you're here! Come, drink with me" but Bo Kei refused and the assistant pressed further and Bo Kei said "Please, sir, I think I better go" but the assistant stopped her, locked the doors and said "Why are you leaving me too? Why is life so unfair to me?! At my age, I should be happily married with children of my own but I have dedicated myself to this great cause in the name of our Heavenly Lord (he was referring to Jesus Christ by the way, they're Christians) and our great leader himself. But why, why life is so unfair to me?" and Bo Kei kinda stunned by his emo-ing again (I wasn't) tried to leave and he took her rejection as an insult as he shouted "I like you 4th Madam, I like you! You cooked me my village's food! My village! My beautiful village, destroyed by the imperial army, razed to the ground, all the villagers killed, my entire village killed!!!" as he despaired and Bo kei said "Sir..." as she tried to leave and he held her back and yes, he tried to rape her.

Chai Gau heard Bo Kei's scream for help and the assistant's assistant refused him entry but Chai Gau rushed into the room and saw assistant on top of Bo Kei and he screamed "WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?!" and rushed forward and punched the assistant but Chai Gau was no match as he was held back by 3 or 4 other assistants and punched till he vomitted blood as Bo Kei sceamed "STOP! STOP!! Chai Gau, are you ok?" and Chai Gau said "Yes I am" and the rebel assistant at his most girly emoting moment shrilled "Chai Gau has offended me by bursting into my room without permission!!" and Bo Kei said "Stop!" but he continued "He.. Chai Gau... he is a spy for the imperial army! He shall be punished by death!!" as he tried to cover his ass so to speak and rushed to his table, took a pistol and pointed it at Chai Gau when Bo Kei stepped in between then and angrily said "That is not the truth! I will tell everyone the truth! You tried to rape me, Chai Gau saw what you were trying to do and he stopped you and you are now going to kill him to cover your tracks!" as she said to the men holding Chai Gau who was silent and on the floor kneeling as assistant cried "That is not true! He is a spy!!" and Bo Kei pleaded "Sir, I know you are a good man, despite what you tried to do. I know you are earnest and sincere in your wish to help this town. You have govern us well. Do not tarnish that with this one act of lunacy! Don't destroy your good work! Contunue to govern us well..." as the assistant looked at her and suddenly laughed and said bitterly "Govern? I don't think I will have that chance anymore. I am doing God's work, serving God and in the end, we have lost the war! We have lost! And the imperial army is on its way to enter this town soon and they wull show us rebels no mercy at all" as his men cried "Sir, be strong! Don't give up!" and he continued "You should all run, run for your lives and I... I will stay and share the town's fate with them..." and he sat down heavily and then he walked to Chai Gau, bowed and said "I am sorry" and he walked to Bo Kei and bowed deeply and said "I am sorry".

He walked out despondently out of the room with the pistil still in hand. Not much later Bo kei and Chai Gau heard a single gun shot sound, they rushed out and saw the assistant falling to his face after having shot himself. His men rushed to him and cried. Bo Kei and Chai Gau, shocked with what they saw.

Chai Gau went home, announced the disbanding of the association and distributed the entire wealth to his brothers, those with family gets a bigger portion. No. 2 said "NO brother! You promise us, we will share our burden together! Allow us to go with you!" and his other men said the same thing but Chai Gau said "Didn't you all said you will listen to my orders? I order you to take the money and start life anew somewhere. You won't be punished for being associated with me. Running with me won't do! You will be abandoning your family, it is not something I want!" and No. 2 said "If that is the case, here, take the money!" and he gave Chai GAu a lot of money and Chai Gau took a qaurter of those and said "I will take these, the rest, distribute amongst yourself" as Hoi Tong looked on.

Bo Kei meanwhile said her goodbyes. She said to the workers "I thank you for all your support. From now on I hope you will serve Bit Ching as you have served your Master Cheung and myself" and the workers cried "4th madam!!" and Fong cried and said "Take good care of yourself and promise me you will come home" and she said yes and then she said to Bit Ching "Take good care of the business, make it thriving" and Bit Ching promised as Ah Man promised "I will take good care of this baby so that when you come back you will see a healthy cute grandson" and Bo Kei nodded and Hing promised to take good care of Fong and everybody cried as she said to Mo "Take good care of your 2nd mother and help you brother" as Mo agreed tearfully and she said "Good bye" as she had to leave as the imperial army was coming into the town.

Pang Hang heard of the news and tricked one of the rebel who was running away to release him and he in turn killed the 2 assistants who betrayed him earlier and he ran.

Bit Man, dog and Fung Yee heard the army was coming in and they were very happy as Bit Man took out the imperial flag which Fung Yee said "You kept that? You could have been killed!" but she said it with pride at Bit Man's ill used resourcefulness as Bit Man said "I will hang this outside now to welcome the imperial army. Mother this is our chance to rise again!" and Fung Yee agreed but dog said "Outside is chaotic. Let's wait till the chaos died down first" and Bit Man smiled and agreed.

Why can't the bombs rain at that motel? Anyway any big plans hatched by Fung Yee and Bit Man won't be successful since we have 2 more episodes till the end of this series. What can they do which TVB won't solve in 1 episode?

Chai Gau was out of the town with Hoi Tong when the bombs rained on them. He was disorientated but unhurt.

Meanwhile Bo kei was not yet out of the town as the bombs rained on her as she saw many people dying before her and she was very afraid.

Chai Gau panicked and asked Hoi Tong "Where is 4th madam? She was supposed to meet us here" and Hoi Tong said "There is such chaos everywhere. Maybe she has left town" but Chai GAu said "No, she promised to wait here. She is hurt!" as he saw those escorting Bo kei injured and walking to him and he rushed to them and asked "Where is 4th madam?" and they explained she was probably trapped in a resturant as the bombs rained on them and Chai GAu panicked ran to save Bo kei as Hoi Tong grabbed him hard and cried "No, don't go Chai Gau Gor! Don't leave me!" and Chai Gau gave her some money and said "YOu follow them! I promise I will keep up! I must find 4th Madam" and he ran quickly as Hoi Tong shouted and cried "Chai Gau Gor! Don't leave me! Chai Gau Gor!!!!"

Chai Gau reached town, dead bodies everywhere, silence and almost a dead town. I wonder how is Bit Ching and gang? Anyway he turned the bodies, looked everywhere, sick with worry when he heard some sound, he turned and came face to face with a snarling but dirty looking Pang Hang who looked back.

A showdown? At this time??

Next episode, Pang Hang revealed where is Bo kei, and when Bo Kei is found she asked Chai Gau why he had returned for her and later we see Chai Gau in prison, coughing hard.

This is heading towards the K-drama route and it isn't the present K-Drama but the olden days sort of K-Drama and it can only mean tragedy!

Good episode, especially Bit Ching's nobleness.

No more comment except poor Hoi Tong, abandoned by Chai Gau. If Chai Gau marries Bo Kei, Bo Kei will indeed be wife no. 1.

And I like how Bit Ching is now practically Bo Kei's son and her joy at being a grandma. Imagine if Fung Yee weren't that hung up on status, Bit Man's son will be like Bo Kei's grandchild too and everyone will be happy. Anyway Fung Yee and Bit Man have stopped evolving as characters.

Performance wise, a big nod to Nancy Wu. Her last scene was pretty ugly as her face got distorted as she cried hard but to me that is good. That is convincing and I really do pity Hoi Tong sometimes.

Pierre Ngo nothing to do, Susan Tse nothing as well.

Ron Ng was effective in tonight's episode since all he needs to do is to look morose which he did well because that is his only face throughout. I like Bit Ching but Ron Ng didn't do justice to this role. Can't Sammul Chan take this role? No, he will be rather arrogant looking. He can be Bit Man and Pierre Ngo can be Bit Ching. Pierre Ngo can play decent noble gentleman.

The actors playing Bit Mo and Pang Hang did well respectively even if the former is just a few minutes scene, I find him rather good thus far and the latter, a veteran doesn't need any explanation how good he was.

Wayne Lai was great in last episode, in this episode I thought he was fantastic as usual, especially when he good naturedly joked about his new costume and role in the rebel government.

Sheren Tang as usual wonderful.

Ben Wong, a rather sad character. Despised his hypocrisy but redeemed himself later by killing himself. I find this character interesting in the sense he is so emotional and yet noble in certain ways.

Everybody else is ok, as usual.

So soon approaching the end. Time flies so fast. I think I will write a review proper for this series as my Episodic Thoughts are more recaps than analysis.

Anyway favourite line.. the one that tugged at your heart...

"4th mother, in the past you have weathered all storms for me. Everytime there is trouble, you were there for me to help me and save me. But now, let me do this for you. Let me grow up and take some respobsibilities, let me shoulder this burden for you"

- Bit Ching to Bo Kei

EPISODE 22

2010-06-14T23:55:00.004+08:00

I have my issues with this episode. First half was almost a joke, the second half reminded me of Moonlight Resonance type of confrontation, except better written and better acted in most part.

First, a recap...

Chai Gau rushed to the restaurant at the request of Bo Kei and found the family there. He asked what was the ocassion and said "Ahh Ah Man, you're pregnant?" and Man laughed it off. It was to celebrate Lau Fong in her own words "I have decided not to be a coward anymore! From this day forward I shall stand up for myself and never be bullied again".

She will eat these words later on.

Bit Ching was also celebrating the handing over the business to him officially. He is now officially the heir apparent to Hing Fung Nin and so the merriment went on...

Eh wait... merriment... I am beginning to sound like narrating a story!

Anyway merriment as I said went on, happily. My question is why wasn't Hoi Tong invited? I mean if this is a celebration shouldn't wives, albeit 2nd wives tag along?

However the merriment was short lived because for all of Bo Kei's genius, she simply forgot to lock doors when she knew in the house lives a wily fox.

Eh wait.. wily fox.. so poetic!

Anyway.. we see that wily fox which is really an idiot actually in the form of Fung Yee happily and smilingly and in her own pace removing some pages from some book.

Chai Gau woke up in the morning and asked Hoi Tong to bring him some clean water to wash his face. Hoi Tong wondered why he was leaving for the office so early as Chai Gau said "I am worried. I have this feeling something bad is going to happen".

Back at home, suddenly I think the rebel assistant himself dropped by and may I just say, if anyone is PMS-ing, it is this rebel assistant. I have never seen a more petty overemotional idiot than this rebel assistant. The way he... you know what, recap first...

Rebel assistant looked at Bo Kei and asked "When I asked you before have you any more truths to reveal, did you not say you didn't have any?" and Bo Kei answered "Yes that's right". He asked further "Did I not ask for your total honesty?" and she said "Yes" and he asked "What is your relationship with the Lord Prince?" and Bo Kei answered "I was his servant for many years" and he asked "Did you correspond with him through letters?" and she said "Yes" and he asked "How many times?" and she said "4 times" and then the PMS-ing began.

He thundered "Did he not tell you in his letter about the Qing army marching into this town and regaining this town soon enough?" and Bo Kei said "Yes he did" and he thundered "How can you not inform me?! Why did you hide this information? I will tell you why! That is because you want this to happen! You're on the side of the Manchurians! You care not for your own people but for them!!" and Bo Kei was beginning to see where this was heading and he said some more "Your diary said it all! Your support for the Manchurians, your snub of us rebels! I read them all, how you wished we are defeated before we entered this town!!" and Bo Kei said "Sir, with due respect, I did say so, but that was before I met you! I was just voicing my opinion as a merchant. Did you not read the part where I said the rebels came in and as promised the peace was maintained? How about the part where I said I met you and you proved to be an honourable man whom I can trust?" and rebel assistant thundered "I read none of those! 4th Madam, you could really make up a story immediately!!" and BO Kei said "No! I did write them. Let me look at the diary..." and Fong and others emotionally said "Please sir, my 4th sister isn't like that!!" and BO Kei could not find those entries and she knew, as she looked at Fung Yee who had a smirk on her face, she knew she was tricked once again! Yes, Fung Yee removed those pages. Bo Kei had no more defence and Mr PMS thundered "Arrest her! Take her away!!!" and Bo Kei was of course arrested, once again. Before she went with Pang Hang's men she quickly and loudly gave Bit Ching the keys and said "Bit Ching, no matter what you hear or what you see, never lose the keys! I give the keys to you, you must now take care of the business and the family!" and Bit Ching nodded as everybody else cried injustice.

Pause here.

I was so annoyed with that rebel assistant. Why is he so darn petty? Everybody knew Bo Kei was on very good terms with the Lord Prince, since he helped her and she was his servant for many years. In fact right at that moment I thought if any scene justified the Qings kicking the rebels' arse, this is it! The Lord Prince was calm and dignified and fair in the way he handled crisis and this rebel assistant was like some hysterical woman who was going through... yes yes yes, PMS. It was just an entry in the diary! I am sure many more wrote worse or said worse, so why pick on a mere woman? Simply because Pang Hang stoke the flame so to speak?

Anyway Chai Gau wasn't there. He was outside trying to get donations from a rice merchant who flat out refused him as he said there was no business to make in town, 9 out of 10 shops are closed and they have more beggars now than ever. So the rebels failed then? Chai Gau didn't want to lose to Pang Hang when he was informed Bo Kei was arrested and Chai Gau was veyr worried. He ran to the rebel assistant and said "Sir, I am Chai Gau" and assistant recognised him and Chai Gau said "Sir, about 4th Madam, you must let her go. She is the most respected figure in this town, she has done many for this town, arresting her will only make the people feel disatisfied with your administration, causing unrest" but the assistant refused to listen and said "I have left this for Pang Hang. Don't bother me with this!" and he left.

Meanwhile rebel assistant had to leave town for some business and passed the duty of interrogating Bo Kei to Pang Hang. I think Chai Gau did asked Pang Hang about Bo Kei but again he was called a dog, idiot, stupid, etc. Pang Hang was becoming unbearably arrogant.

Fung Yee was one happy woman. Pang Hang agreed to introduce Bit Man to the rebel leader when he is back so she was happy she could be regaining power soon. However the rest were worried, especially Fong who was very very worried, as they heard rumours Bo Kei was being tortured. They couldn't see her and as they wondered how they can rescue BO Kei, Fung Yee walked in and said happily "Oh I just saw 4th sister and she isn't very well" and Fong panicked but Bit Ching calmly said "What else did 4th mother said?" and Hing scolded "Don't listen to her! All she says is lies!" as Fung Yee said "Oh she was beaten 40 strokes even before she was interrogated. We had a long chat and she said she is tired and is ready to let go of the keys so that she can live peacefully" and Fong panicked bit time as Hing shouted "She is lying! I have lied all my life, I know a liar when I see one. See her eyes; she is lying with her eyes wide opened! Don't listen to her!!" but Bit Ching calmly said "What else did 4th mother said?" and Fung Yee said "She said to instruct you to return the keys to my Bit Man, the real eldest grandchild of this family!".

Frankly I can't remember what Bit Ching said or did, I think he just ignored her because he knew she was lying. Bo Kei would never say those things but Fong believed the torture part and she became ill with worries. Pang Hang walked in and she went to beg him and he said "I most respect 1st Madam. Whatever she says I will do. Only I can help 4th Madam and I will only listen to 1st Madam" and Fung Yee of course smiled. Fong was frantic by then but Bit Ching assured her "Don't worry mother, Chai Gau will sort things out. He is looking for 4th mother, he will find a way".

When Hing and Man walked out,they saw her standing at the door and Hing asked "First madam, what are you doing here?" and

Fung Yee ignored them. They saw a sedan coming and Fung Yee eagerly rushed to the sedan and out came Bit Man. If I had any hopes of Bit Man becoming a decent human, it was all dashed when Fung Yee said "Bit Man, you should have waited until tomorrow to return" and Bit Man said "I can't stay in that place any longer! This is home!" as he walked in, stared at Hing and Man who both stared back.Hing and Man overheard Fung Yee said "Bit Man, it won't be long you will be able to take back control of Hing Fung Nin. When you do remember to donate 3000 sacks of rice (again the number is an illustration as I can't really remember the exact amount or unit) to the rebels" and Bit Man asked "Why? I thought we did before?" and Fung Yee said "The reason you are back in here and could take back the business is thanks to the rebels. We must show our appreciation" and so Bit Man agreed. Hing said "Let's tell Bit Ching about this!"

Pause here.

Bit Man never changes. Fung Yee still the same. As shall be seen later, Fong is still the same. I felt like the story is stuck in a time warp, when things began to show a bit of progress the characters go back to being their same old selves. Very very frustrating to watch. I was losing my patience. More so with what Fong did in the following paragraph!

Bit Ching was told Bit Man is back and he looked I suppose concerned. Then Fong rushed in, weak and pale and cried "Son, I dreamt your 4th mother being tortured! We owe her too much to let her be hurt like this. Give me the keys, let's just give them back what they wanted and save your 4th mother!" and Hing and Man also urged Bit Ching to do so but Bit Ching stood firm and said "Mother, we don't really know what is going on. I promised 4th mother to take care of the business" and Fong shouted in desperation "Your 4th mother's life is more important than this business! Give me the keys, son, GIVE ME THE KEYS!!" and Bit Ching said "No mother, I won't!" and Fong said "GIVE ME THE KEYSSSS!!!!!! I WILL FIND THEM MYSELF" and she searched the desk, found it and ran out together with the business seals and Bit Ching ran after her. Bit Ching really can't stop her?

Fong ran to Fung Yee and Bit Man with the dog there, both eating dinner and Fong angrily extended the box of seals and keys and said "HERE! These are what you always wanted! Here, take them! Just take them! Let 4th sister go!" and Bit Man looked at them hungrily and Fung Yee was extending her hands when Bit Ching rushed in and stopped his mother and gently said "Mother, don't give these to them. Remember your promise mother? That you will no longer be a coward. 4th Mother would never have given these to them to easily. She would never have surrendered" and he saw Bit Man and he said "What are you doing in this house? Get out!" and Fung Yee said "Don't you dare to be so rude! He is still your oldest brother and his status is higher than you, so who are you to tell Bit Man to go?" and Bit Ching said "Father in his will left the business and the managing of the household to 4th mother. When 4th mother was arrested, she said to me with everyone listening that I am her successor. There comes my power. Now, YOU GET OUT!" and Bit Man refused and Bit Ching angrily said "You really are an unfilial useless son! If you refused to go, fine!" and he asked one servant to bring a stick and he took some big stick and chased after Bit Man to beat him. Bit Man taunted him "For every stroke that you hit me, I will make sure Hong Bo Kei get hit 4 times more!" and Bit Ching hit Bit Man and Bit Man cried "I will make sure she gets hit hard!!!" and Bit Ching shouted "You unfilial useless son!" and he chased after Bit Man and Fung Yee stood in front of Bit Ching and said "If you dare, hit me too! I am this family's legal wife! Do you dare?!" and Bit Ching didn't hesitate and hit Bit Man by pushing Fung Yee away and ran after Bit Man and the dog shielded Bit Man and said "He has lost his marbles! Go back to your room!" and Fong and the rest held Bit Ching as Bit Man said "I wil make sure Hong Bo Kei gets beaten hard!!!" and Bit Ching wanted to chase after him but he was held back.

Chai Gau meanwhile was drinking all alone in his house, as he remembered how Bo Kei led him to safety during the Hoi Tong scandal, her confession of love, etc etc. Kinda bored seeing all this. And he also saw or rather imagined how she was being whipped and in prison looking bloody and all and crying for help which is ridiculous because Bo Kei won't be tortured, I said so when I saw this scene. We are shown rumours and all, and Fung Yee playing psychological games with the rest, using Bo Kei's unknown whereabouts and fate as a bet, so I knew Bo Kei wasn't tortured at all. Earlier it was shown how he went to 2 rebels asking to see Bo Kei and paying them bribes but they said they can't help him because Bo Kei is not in the prisons. No one know where she is, which leads to Chai Gau drinking all alone. Also earlier he went to Pang Hang wanting to see the rebel assistant and of course Pang Hang insulted him and said no and told him to get the $80,000 ready. I remember it was $80,000, however it could be another sum so I just use $80,000 as an illustration.

Pause here.

I was very frustrated with this scene. First, Bo Kei is now like the unseen damsel in distress. Then we have Chai Gau, useless and being called names by Pang Hang and yet he didn't punch the daylight out of Pang Hang. It was like Chai Gau lost all his machoness, his anger. HOWEVER, this isn't permanent of course as you shall see.

Anyway he drank and drank and drank and turned the table in frustration and No. 2 and his men and Hoi Tong rushed in and No. 2 said "3rd brother, don't drink like this! Let's quit the security job tomorrow and we will go back to the mountains. We may lose all the transporting jobs but we can manage. We stay together and enjoy the good times and bear the burdens together! Come on, what say you?" and others chimed in and said the same thing and Hoi Tong gently said "Chai Gau, I know you're worried about 4th Madam but this won't help. You haven't slept in days. Have a rest and you will think more clearly tomorrow about how to save her" and suddenly Chai Gau had an idea and said "I have to go now" and zoom he went leaving the rest rather confused.

Chai Gau walked right up to Pang Hang and again Pang Hang insulted him and said "If you're here asking for my help with Hong Bo Kei matter, you can forget it!" but Chai Gau looked at him straight and said "I am not here about that. I am here about another matter. I wish to ask you a few questions about the $80,000. Am I to collect all $80,000 and not $1 less?" and Pang Hang making that ugly annoying face said "NOT $1 LESS!!" and Chai Gau asked "Can I collect lesser?" and Pang Hang said "NO!" and Chai Gau said "By any means necessary?" and Pang Hang said "BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY!!" and Chai Gau said "Even if it disrupts the lives and livelihood and security of the people of this town?" and Pang Hang said "YES!!!" and Chai Gau said "Fine. You shall have that sum, not one $1 less by tonight, that I guarantee!" and Chai Gau walked away and Pang Hang sneered at him, wondering what just happened.

Well, what just happened is Chai Gau finding his machoness back!

So Chai Gau went to collect money from one rice merchant who refused to pay since he had none and Chai Gau said "You won't pay?!" and the merchant said "Chai Gau Gor, what happened to you? How come you've changed into Pang Hang?!" and Chai Gau thundered "Who are these people?" and he said "My mother, my father and my wife" and Chai Gau said "Arrest them all and they will be released when you bring $8000 by today" and so his men forcibly took the wife, mother and old father as the rice merchant shouted for them to stop. Next Chai Gau went to a merchant having lunch with his wife and young son and he asked the same thing and the merchant said timidly "Chai Gau Gor, you promised that I can pay $1000 in 2 days time" but Chai Gau demanded $8000 now and he couldn't pay and so Chai Gau took hold of the young kid and said "Arrest this kid, put them all in prison!" and of course the merchant cried for help but Chai Gau took the family away.

What a strategy eh? Certainly they will all complain to the rebel assistant!

Meanwhile, Fong had a nightmare and she woke up sweating heavily. They all rushed in as she was weak and pale and also panicking big time. Again Fong's character just stuck in a time warp, the same same same. Suddenly Fung Yee walked in and smiled. She said "Remember when I said for every stroke your son hit my Bit Man, 4th sister will get 4 times the strokes? Well your son didn't just hit my son 4 times but I just let it be. I thought you might like to see this" and she showed Fong a napkin tainted red with blood and she said "Poor 4th sister, she coughed up so much blood. Now she has a high fever, she won't last long in prison" and Fong held the napkin and cried hard when Bit Ching, Hing and Man and I think even Mo was there, can't remember, rushed in and Bit Ching said to Fung Yee coldly "Get out!" and Fung Yee laughingly walked out as Fong held the napkin and Bit Ching said "Mother, don't listen to her. From now on, lock your doors, don't let her get in" and Bit Ching assured her Chai Gau is looking for Bo Kei but Hing said "I don't know what is wrong with Chai Gau. He is just busy arresting people today!". Fong was still crying hard whilst Bit Ching looked worried.

Pause here.

Hasn't anyone thought of throwing Fung Yee out? She is a trouble maker. Or maybe kidnapping Bit Man and torture him in return for Bo Kei's freedom? Or locking doors? Or closing Hing Fung Nin in protest?

Frustrating to watch.

Meanwhile rebel assistant is back and Pang Hang prepared some home cooked meals for him and he was very happy and said "Brother, I just met with our leader and he said this town must be protected at all cost. Now there are so many beggars and so many shops closed. We must keep the businesses afloat, as an example" and Pang Hang chatted with him and said "Brother, I have one person to introduce to you" and so he took him to another room and there was Bit Man, dog and Fung Yee and Pang Hang said "This is Cheung Bit Man, the real and rightful successor of Hing Fung Nin" and the assistant said "Yes I have heard about the family squabbles" and seemed happy to meet Bit Man and sat down to eat when someone rushed in and said "Sir, there are a lot of people out there wanting to see you, they said they wish to report some injustice!" and assistant was confused and went out.

There were the businessmen, the rice merchants whose families were arrested by Chai Gau and immediately they surrounded the assistant with Fung Yee and gang looking on at the back and Pang Hang standing beside the assistant as the men cried "My families were arrested when I could not pay the amount asked for! Chai Gau arrested them! My father is 80 years old!".."My family too!"..."If this is the case I might as well just close my shops and go away! We are not doing good business anyway!!" and the assistant was like confused what the hell is going on when Chai Gau walked in, holding a bit pile of bank notes and walked right up to the assistant and said "Sir! You're here!" and he walked to Pang Hang and said "Here is your bank notes. I still need a day more to collect the rest of the sum, so please accept these first" and the assistant looked at Pang Hang with shock on his face whilst Pang Hang snarled and the merchants whispered "So... it was Pang Hang..." and the assistant shouted (PMS-ing again) at Pang Hang "Is this how you control your subordinates?!" and Pang Hang said "No sir! Chai Gau is just making trouble!" and Chai Gau said "You were the one who said by any means necessary with not one $1 less and within the time period and so I did what I was instructed to do" and Pang Hang angrily whipped Chai Gau as Chai Gau said to the assistant "He also said he didn't care what methods I used or whether the people are burdened, as long as I could collect that money" and he was whipped again and assistant said "I did not authorise this! I have said if you're not happy with the way things are, tell me!" and Chai Gau said "I tried to, remember? But you refused to listen!" and assistant said "You were talking about 4th Madam, not this town!" and Chai Gau said "4th Madam is this town! She is highly respected here, and by arresting her you have caused unhappiness and now an unrest! And you even tortured her!" and assistant in shock said "No I didn't! I just held her to be interrogated, I did not authorise any torture on 4th Madam! Who said I did?!" and Bit Ching, Fong, Mo, Hing and Man arrived and Bit Ching shouted as he pointed at Fung Yee "She! She said so!!" and Fung Yee was put in the spot as Fong angrily showed the assistant the napkin with blood stains on it and tearfully said "You tortured her until she coughed up blood!" and the assistant now seriously denying all charges and emotionally said "I DID NOT!! I just held her here whilst I investigated the charges! Men, bring 4th Madam out!" and he continued "I was only investigating the charges about her and the Lord Prince" and Pang Hang said "She colluded with the enemy! The letters are evidence!" and Chai Gau snarled "If she is guilty of receiving 4 letters from the Lord Prince, then I am sure with some search we can find a basket full of correspondence between you and the previous governer! You have colluded with him so many years, squeezing the people of this town of every dime with your transportation fees as you colluded with that governer! Shall we search your house?" and Pang Hang said "She wished the end of our great leader's occupation!" and Chai Gau thundered "So did you! Didn't you said you wish the rebels to die and the great leader to be cursed with no children at the time your sister was buried? It wasn't only I who heard it, there were hundreds of witnesses!!" and Pang Hang was speechless and Chai Gau said to the assistant "Do you want peace in this town? It is very easy! Remove Pang Hang!" and Pang Hang looked scared as he continued "If you want the people to support the rebels, very easy! Strip Pang Hang of his ill gotten fortunes and buy rice with that money and redistribute them to the people of this town! I am sure over the years he has amassed at least $20,000 if not at least $10,000!" and now Pang Hang became even more scared as Chai Gau went on "If you want this town to prosper, very easy! Arrest Pang Hang now and chop off his head! Everybody hates him and with him dead, everyone will be much happier! Do you not agree!" and the merchants cheered and said "Arrest Pang Hang!!" and everybody shouted the same but the assistant said calmly "Chai Gau, you have said enough. You all have my assurance I will investigate this and give you all an answer" and he was about to leave as Pang Hang too followed the assistant, smiling happily when Chai Gau took up the whip and whipped Pang Hang as he shouted "How many decades does one have? Why not just remove this bastard now!!!!" and Bo Kei walked out and shouted "WELL DONE CHAI GAU!! WHIP HIM ONCE MORE ON MY BEHALF!! THIS USELESS BASTARD! WHIP HIM!" and Chai Gau looked at Pang Hang eyes full of hatred, like he was with Bit Man.

Next episode, a reversal of role as Pang Hang now is the dog carrying the dogbone in his mouth whilst Bo Kei pledges her allegiance to the new government formed by the rebels?

Huh?

What an episode.

First half was mundane, boring, repetetive and frustrating. The characters just never grow at all and even in the end any hopes of Bit Man showing signs of change either for better or for worse never happened. Fung Yee is just insane and again her plans thwarted. And she is still there! Someone should kick her out! Bo Kei became helpless, Chai Gau no more machoness, only Bit Ching showed some progress, and a steely character and determination. And we have an over emotional rebel assistant who needed a few slaps on the face for his pettiness.

The second half was exciting as Chai Gau found his machoness again, the things he did and what he said at the end. Yes, very exiciting stuff and I do love seeing how the rebel assistant tried to justify everything he DIDN'T do and how Pang Hang got his comeuppance. The speech by Chai Gau on how to better manage the town by getting rid of Pang Hang was excellent stuff and a pity I couldn't remember word for word but what I wrote is a representation of it. I love the way Chai Gau told the rebel assistant what to do. And the rebel assistant is trying to be the nice guy you know, however he is just as foolish and dumb as the Qings were corrupted. At least the Lord Prince was wise.

Performance wise, Wayne Lai rules. His angry eyes, the way he delivered his lines, the way he exuded power and raw machoness in that last scene made up for the lame first half. Must be seen to be believed!

Ron Ng is ok even if on paper Bit Ching is better written than he is acted. Still one look, one expression!

I can't stand Lau Fong but Kara Wai did well with the role.

Susan Tse is in good form as the manipulative Fung Yee but the problem is the Moonlight Resonance format. One crisis in 1 episode and solved within 1 episode. It just didn't give Fung Yee room to grow as a villain since her plans are always thwarted. I would love to see a continuos growth and so I feel Fung Yee is such a failed villain.

Pierre Ngo is good but the problem is Bit Man just stopped growing. He is stuck, he is neither the changed man I hoped for or the super villain he should be. Still a coward standing behind his mother. How disappointing.

Not much for Sheren Tang to do in this episode.

Ben Wong should stop being so overemotional in this role or similar roles. I felt it was such a terribly inadequate performance.

Whilst Wayne Lai is clearly the star in this episode, the one equal to him is of course the actor who played Pang Hang. I can't remember his name right now but he was excellent. Really felt like slapping him! This is one fine veteran actor and I really enjoyed his confrontation with Wayne Lai, making that potentially dramatically over the top scene just right simply because the acting was superb.

Ok, favourite line, what else...

"Do you want peace in this town? It is very easy! Remove Pang Hang!...If you want the people to support the rebels, very easy! Strip Pang Hang of his ill gotten fortunes and buy rice with that money and redistribute them to the people of this town! I am sure over the years he has amassed at least $20,000 if not at least $10,000!...If you want this town to prosper, very easy! Arrest Pang Hang now and chop off his head! Everybody hates him and with him dead, everyone will be much happier! Do you not agree!...How many decades does one have? Why not just remove this bastard now!!!!"

- Chai Gau to the rebel assistant and everyone in the room

Indeed! WHIP PANG HANG!!! WHIP BIT MAN!!! WHIP FUNG YEE!!!

EPISODE 21

2010-06-11T23:55:00.000+08:00

A rather strange but expected sort of story.

RECAP...

Chai Gau rushed in with a pistol with a face of hatred and determination to commit murder and went looking for Bit Man who went running away like a little girl, especially now that he has free flowing shoulder length hair. He ran, Chai Gau chased. Went into a room, Bit Man ran to the bedside, crouched and cried as he begged "Please don't kill me, please don't kill me" but Chai Gau held the pistol to his head...

Pause here.

Eh Chai Gau, you said plunge a knife into his heart?? Why now a bullet to his head?

Anyway Bo Kei, Bit Ching all rushed in and begged him to stop. Bo Kei especially begged "Chai Gau! Don't commit murder for him! It is not worth it! Chai Gau, please don't!!" but Chai Gau remembered how he was knifed, how he was almost drowned, how much he had suffered and in his heart it was still full of hatred and he cried "NO! I MUST DO THIS! HE TRIED TO KILL ME!!" and he pointed the gun at Bit Man's head who now had his eyes closed and begging and sweating and Bo Kei stepped forward and with tears said "Chai Gau, please don't! DON'T!" but Chai Gau refused to listen and almost pulled the trigger eventhough he hesitated. He is not a killer after all, and he hesitated and then flashback to all his sufferings and he was determined to kill Bit Man when suddenly, Bo Kei shouted at the top of her lungs, "CHAI GAU!! PLEASE DON'T!! I DO NOT WANT TO LOSE YOU AGAIN!!!"

And Chai Gau stopped and Bo Kei with tears continued "Do you know how it feels to have someone and then to lose them? Do you know the feeling of that heartache, that longing? When you were missing (flashback we see Bo Kei in a dark room sleeping with her head on the desk) I saw you coming back to me, like you used to and then I woke up (flashback, she woke up happy, smiling but then crestfallen when she knew it was just a dream) and I thought you came back to me and then I realised I was all alone, it was just a dream. Do you know how I felt when I thought you came back to me only to have lost you again? Chai Gau, I do not ever want to go through that feeling again, I never want you to come back to me just to leave me again"

What she said was "Tak yu fuk sat" meaning lost and found again, sort of. If this is not a confession of love, I don't know what is.

Chai Gau looked at her and she looked at him back and he lowered his gun but Fung Yee rushed in with a pistol to Bo Kei's head and threatened "If you don't let my Bit Man go, I will shoot her!" and Chai Gau pressed the gun towards Fung Yee and shouted "IF YOU HURT HER, I WILL KILL YOU!!"

Again, if this is not a confession of love, I don't know what is.

Fung Yee said "Try me! Put down your gun! Bit Man, follow me! You will let him pass!" and she dragged Bo Kei out to the main door as Bit Man like a coward followed. I think the dog was there, kinda stunned as to what is happening. Fung Yee cried "Tell your men to let my son pass or I will shoot!" and Chai Gau cried "Let her and that useless bastard pass!" and they parted ways and yes, Bo Kei was really silent during this time. Fung Yee rushed out with Bit Man and Bo Kei still being held by Fung Yee and Fung Yee said to Bit Man "Bit Man, run! Run!!" but Bit Man said "What about you mother?" and Fung Yee said "Don't bother about me! Run now!! RUN!!" and he ran as fast as he could and Fung Yee dropped the gun and dropped to the floor and cried her heart out. Bo Kei, Chai Gau, Bit Ching all looked at Fung Yee crying hard, kinda have a look of pity on their faces as No. 2 asked "3rd Brother, should we follow him?" and Chai Gau looked at Bo Kei who looked back and said "Let him go" and then Chai Gau left with his brothers as Bo Kei looked at him walked away.

Meanwhile as said in last episode, the Empire has lost, well only that town but the rebels are advancing to the capital city. The I suppose general/assistant to the rebel leader marched in amongst slogan being shouted, not sure what but I suppose is support the rebels, drive off the Manchurians, regain our land sort of slogan. Guess who's the rebel assistant? BEN WONG!! Ahh so confused! SAFE GUARDS!

Anyway he marched and met with the rice merchants, knowing all of their names and acknowledging them, especially Bo Kei since she is the representative of the biggest rice merchant. He also acknoweledged Pang Hang who happened to be from the same village as his and Pang Hang saved his life before and all and so he treated Pang Hang as brother and gave the duty of security to Pang Hang. He also acknowledged Chai Gau and thanked him for maintaining peace and made him assistant to Pang Hang, something Chai Gau didn't want. Then back to business, the rebel assistant whose name I still haven't know yet said to the merchants "I will guarantee there will be no looting and crimes whilst I am here. All I ask in return is your support to loan us 30% of your rice, 30% of all your stock that you have. All I ask is you do not lie about the stock and I promise to repay back. Here is the IOU prepared by our leader. We will be advancing to the capital soon and we need the rice for our men in the fields. Can you loan me that?"

And the merchants look at Bo Kei and Bo Kei said "Yes we can"

Chai Gau had a very bad day. Pang Hang bullied him and gave him all the security work plus gathering of I think $80,000 as funding and Pang Hang did nothing. Chai Gau complained bitterly to Bo Kei and said "I feel like quitting! I don't need Pang Hang to direct me!" and Bo Kei calmly said "Do you think Pang Hang can act to unfairly for long?" and Chai Gau said "That rebel and him are like sworn brothers! There is no way I can tell the rebel of Pang Hang's misdeeds! He won't believe!" and Bo Kei smiled and said "You do see the rebel when he walked in didn't you? He didn't achieve his status and his success today by sheer luck. He can see with his own eyes and he knows. And even if he does not see nor know, do this for the people of this town. Without your help, Pang Hang would lord over them all" and Chai Gau looked at Bo Kei and understood what she meant and agreed to stay on. And then he was about to leave. Chai Gau couldn't stop thinking about what Bo Kei said that night and when he was about to leave Chai Gau turned his head to look straight into Bo Kei's eyes and she looked back intently, remembering what was said, what they've been through, what she confessed and he reluctantly looked away, so did Bo Kei as they went their separate ways.

Meanwhile Fung Yee met with Bit Man in a hotel. Bit Man looked like a lost little boy, scared and asked "If Chai Gau coming to get me?" and Fung Yee assured him she doesn't think Chai Gau wants to kill him anymore. Then Bit Man sat down heavily and said "Mother, I have been thinking hard for these past few days. I realised I should have paid more attention in learning the business, I should have worked hard" which is something new for Bit Man. He is beginning to show signs of being good perhaps? But Fung Yee is a terribly bad mother as she retorted "Bit Man, it was never your fault. It was that woman's fault! I was the daughter of a rich man, educated and schooled in the ways of being a lady. I was born very very lucky to have been doted upon by my parents. Then I married very well and I was lucky to have a good son who is the eldest grandchild of Hing Fung Nin, the rightful heir and successor (as she hugged Bit Man to her chest as Bit Man looked confused). Then that woman, she came into my life and snatched everything away! I swear it, I swear I shall regain everything I have lost. Believe me my dear son, you will get back your fightful inheritence!!"

Pause here.

I really pitied Fung Yee when she urged Bit Man to run away. I understood her predicament and wouldn't blame her for what she did, which Bo Kei and Bit Ching didn't blame her too. She did love Bit Man. But this scene convinces me she is that sort that is kiasu. She herself said she was doted upon, which meant whatever she wanted she got. She wanted Cheung Kiu, she got Cheung Kiu, that sort of kiasu. She just couldn't get over the fact Bo Kei got everything. Part jealousy, part hatred, was how she felt for Bo Kei. When Bit MAn showed signs of repentence, not only did she not encourage that, she was so blinded by her hatred and jealousy she was also blinded of her son's inadequacies and she blamed everybody but herself or Bit Man. I lost my pity for her in this scene. Bit Man may be able to change but with a mother like that, his chances of being good is almost nil. Fung Yee is just getting crazier and crazier. And so stupid too. Imagine this;

after all she had done, Bo Kei never kicked her out. She is still wife no. 1 and madam of the house. If she had been nicer and more contented and less angry, she would have had a very comfortable life, and so will Bit Man who will be respected as a brother who assists his 4th mother in business. Fung Yee especially will retain her much respected position instead of being driven to being this crazy old bat who is kiasu and darn stupid. What an idiot!

More idiocy courtesy of Fung Yee to come. And also the mysterious dumbing down of Bo Kei.

Chai Gau was openly scolded by Pang Hang, being called a dog, stupid, etc and Chai Gau didn't retaliate. His men asked him why he didn't and Chai Gau said "4th madam is right. What we are doing, we are doing for the people of this town. Let's be patient"

Fung Yee was seen visiting the grave of Cheung Kiu, and Fong and Bit Ching saw her. Fong being rather weak and kind hearted asked Fung Yee how she was and how was Bit Man doing and Fung Yee lied "Bit Man is doing business with some friends but the rice are hard to come by. His business is suffering. 3rd sister, Bit Ching, do you think it is ok if you give some 500 sacks of rice (I suppose 500 sacks because frankly not sure what is "tham" as a unit is) to Bit Man for him to weather this bad business climate?" and Bit Ching said "I am sorry first mother, I can't. The rebels will know and we can't lie about our total rice that we have" but Fong took pity of a crying Fung Yee and said "Son, help her if you can. Please, for my sake" and Fung Yee cried "You can just leave the sacks of rice at the warehouse near the mountains tonight. Uncle Cheung Fatt and I will collect them. Even if we are found out, Uncle Cheung Fatt and I will bear the consequences, not you or 4th sister. Please help your brother, take pity on him" and Fong begged too and so Bit Ching agreed (stupid!) and Fung Yee said "Please don't tell 4th sister about this" and Fong repeated the same thing and Bit Ching agreed.

Which means Bit Ching will tell her. He has yet to keep any secrets from Bo Kei successfully.

Big trouble. That night Pang Hang said to Chai Gau "We heard rumours of some rice hidden away from the rebels at the mountains. Let's go!" and Chai Gau reluctantly went along.

At the mountain, Pang Hang said "So we have sacks of rice here! Chai Gau, you will go and arrest 4th Madam now!" and Chai Gau said "What evidence you have she is involved?" and Pang Hang said "Every sack is stamped with Hing Fung Nin's logo!" and Chai Gau saw the logos and knew Bo Kei was in big trouble.

THey all went to Cheung Mansion and wanted to arrest Bo kei. Bo Kei by that time was questioning Bit Ching why the accounts book was missing 500 sacks of rice and Bit Ching said "A friend needed my help, 4th mother" and Bo Kei looked at him and gently said "Which friend?" and Bit Ching in the end confessed and right about that time the servants said Pang Hang is here and Bo Kei knew she is screwed.

Pang Hang demanded Bo Kei to be locked in chains together with Bit Ching as well and Chai Gau tried to fight for Bo Kei but as in talk sort of fight but BO Kei said "It is ok Chai Gau. Put the locks on me" and they were dragged before the assistant rebel leader.

He was super angry and cried "I gave you my trust and trusted you that you will honour your words! I have honoured mine! So far, no looting! No fights! All I want is 30% of your whole stock to feed the men fighting FOR YOUR FREEDOM and yet you have deceived me! Men, drag them out and put them into the army! Let them feel what it is like to be an army in the frontline!" and Chai Gau stopped him and said "Sir, they have a reason!" and Bit Ching explained "My first mother begged me to help my eldest brother by giving him 500 sacks of rice. I trusted her and did what she asked me to. And that night Pang Hang came. It is obviously a trap! I was tricked sir! Moreover I am to be blamed alone, leave 4th mother alone, punish me alone!" and Pang Hang cried "Don't listen to him. He just recently went into a fight with his older brother over the family fortune, why would he have helped the older brother? He is obviously lying!" and Bit Ching cried "I did helped!" and Bo Kei said "I was the one who told Bit Ching to help" and Pang HAng said "YOU? OF ALL PEOPLE? WHO WOULD BELIEVE YOU?" and Bo Kei said "Sir, my husband wrote in his will that should this useless son ever needs my help I should do all that is within my power to help this useless son. I was just carrying out my husband's last wishes. If you do not believe me, the will is in my study room. I can bring it here for you to inspect" and Pang Hang was arguing when the leader shouted "ENOUGH! I am not bothered with your family squabble! I trust you two were telling the truth! As punishment I am taking away the 500 sacks of rice! Do not ever lie to me again! Go now!" and so Bo Kei was saved and Pang HAng annoyed.

Once back at home Fong rushed to Bit Ching and tearfully asked what happened but Bit Ching was very quiet and ran into his room. Bo Kei and all ran in and he said to Bo Kei in a very serious face, "4th mother, please reassign me back to the warehouses. I am not fit to run the business. I have learned nothing, I am none the wiser, I was tricked. I am truly Cheung Bit Chuen (Chuen = stupid in cantonese)" and Ah Man cried "No, you're Cheung Bit Lek! (Lek = smart in cantonese)" and Bit Ching cried "No I am Cheung Bit Chuen!" and Bo Kei said "Bit Ching, you're Cheung Ho Sam (Ho Sam = kind hearted in cantonese) and your biggest problem as is your best asset is you're too kind hearted. That woman is out to cheat you and there is nothing much you can do about it. Take this as a lesson. If you don't, then whatever you have learned today, you have learned nothing. Don't quit" but Bit Ching said "No 4th mother, I am useless!" and Fong saw how her son has become took his hands and dragged him out of his room.

Fung Yee was eating rice, and she was eating with a wide smile, I assume remembering what she thought would happen to Bo Kei. What a despicable woman.

Fong rushed in, walked straight up to Fung Yee, Fung Yee looked up with the chopsticks in her hands and Fong gave her one resounding hard SLAP on her face! Oh, soooooo Moonlight Resonance! But good though. I would have done the same! FUng Yee shocked as was everyone else and Fung Yee stammered with anger "How dare you.." but Fong cut her off and said angrily as she cried "1st sister, when I first came into this family, I looked up to you. I was scared and in awe of you. If you stood I dared not walk. If you didn't eat, I dare not touch my chopstick. If you didn't speak, I dare not even breath! Everything you ask of me I did for you. But now, from today onwards, I shall not respect you anymore. After what you have done to my son, I will show you no more courtesy than you deserve!" and Fung Yee looked at her, now standing up and said "Which mother wouldn't do everything for her son?" as she pushed Fong and Fong pushed back harder that made Fung Yee almost lose her balance and said angrily "And so will I! Don't you forget 1st sister, before I married into this family, I was a security guard!! I am not easily bullied! If you ever hurt my son again, I swear it, I WILL KILL YOU!!" and Auntie Hing chimed in "Madam, count me in too!!" and they all walked out as Fung Yee looked on with shock. When she was alone with her maid, she suddenly and angrily pushed the dishes away, breathing hard with a look of utter madness. I tell you, she is going to Tanjung Rambutan!

I think it was Bo Kei who said "Look at your mother, even someone as coward as she was before could stand up and defend you. Take this as a lesson, don't give up" and Bit Ching finally understood and said "I promise I will smarten up and will not jeapordise the business again".

Chai Gau and his men were walking when they saw the dog walking out of a restaurant. Chai Gau wondered "What is he doing? He is a man who is frugal, why is he walking out of an expensive restaurant?" and Chai Gau borrowed the whip from No. 2 and followed him.

The dog brought expensive lunch to Bit Man who ungratefully threw it aside when he was told he shouldn't come out like this and he was afraid of Chai Gau killing him. And Chai Gau walked out, with whip in hand and Bit Man ran but Chai Gau whipped him as he scolded "You useless bastard! How dare you make life difficult for 4th Madam again and again? Do you not remember how 4th Madam saved your arse when you were caught with Hoi Tong? Did you not feel grateful for all she had done? And yet you still try to bring her down! You useless bastard" as he whipped Bit Man and the dog grabbed hold of Chai Gau and shouted "Stop! Stop!" and Chai Gau threw him aside and said "You too deserved to be whipped! You especially! You're supposed to teach him, and yet everytime he did something bad you protected him. You never taught him the lesson of life and look how he turns out to be! It is your fault! If you ever hardm 4th Madam again, I swear it I will kill you!!", that is meant for Bit Man. Bit Man looked mighty scared and the dog shocked.

Back at home, Hoi Tong happily greeted Chai Gau and wanted to have dinner with him as Chai Gau good naturedly spoke of his day at work and saying he regretted listening to Bo Kei about working for Pang Hang. Hoi Tong listened happily and was feeding him as Chai Gau said "But at the end of the day my happiest time is returning to you with food on my table and a cup of good wine in my hand" and the servant walked in and said Bo Kei wanted to meet with him for dinner at the restaurant and Chai Gau without hesitation said ok and left. Hoi Tong wasn't angry though, she just looked and smiled wistfully.

Next few episodes, again Bo Kei got tricked but this time she was punished severely as Fung Yee won back Hing Fung Nin and Bit MAn returned to inherit it. But he didn't look triumphant, he looked rather morose.

What I hope? That Bit MAn would realise he is no businessman material and just handover the business back to Bo Kei despite what his mother did for him. He did have that look of regret in that preview scene. Can Bit Man be saved?

Like I said, a strange episode because SUDDENLY love is in the air for CHai Gau and Bo Kei. Suddenly we see scene of her missing him so badly and that lingering look into each other's eyes in the restaurant. I mean kinda expected but since it was so sudden, to move from respect to love all of a sudden, it felt strange. And suddenly Bo Kei seems less effective, like she said less and Chai Gau did more of the saving. I want the steely strong Bo Kei and not the damsel in distress waiting for Chai Gau to rescue her sort of Bo Kei even if in the past he did the rescuing but somehow now it feels forced, almost embarassing to watch.

THe confrontation between Fong and Fung Yee may be overly dramatic but good for Fong to have such a tough scene. It is time she slapped that Fung Yee. BUt she should also slap herself since her own stupidity almost cost Bit Ching his life.

I understand Bit Ching's dilemma and his disappointment. I feel that scene is necessary to show Bit Ching at his lowest and of course seconds later his spirit lifted again thanks to his mother.

Again Fung Yee is so darn stupid.

Performance wise, everybody did well, especially Pierre Ngo and his cowardly Bit Man and in one scene that he almost felt regret for what he did.

Susan Tse is good at acting crazy though even if her acting is a bit old fashioned for my taste.

Wayne Lai looks fierce!!

Ben Wong is like overemotional hyper sensitive woman in most scenes.

Sheren TANG is great as usual eventhough the sudden love connection just doesn't suit her no nonsense 4th Madam. I think I prefer mentor-student sort of relationship with Chai Gau than a lover sort of relationship. I can understand why Chai Gau fall for her but Bo Kei for Chai Gau? MAybe all along there was deep admiration and respect that translated into that urgent moment as love as she was forced to acknowledge she really really really missed him but again still too sudden even if all signs point to that eventuality.

Great episode though.

SAFE GUARDS SAMENESS

None. Safe Guards was never that melodramatic. But doesn't mean this episode ain't entertaining and well written in some parts!

Favourite line?

"1st sister, when I first came into this family, I looked up to you. I was scared and in awe of you. If you stood I dared not walk. If you didn't eat, I dared not touch my chopstick. If you didn't speak, I dare not even breath! Everything you ask of me I did for you. But now, from today onwards, I shall not respect you anymore. After what you have done to my son, I will show you no more courtesy than you deserve!"

- Lau Fong to Fung Yee

EPISODE 20

2010-06-10T23:55:00.006+08:00

You know, Bit Man like I have been saying is one ineffective villain but you can't blame him for not being resourceful when he is forced to be, except for all the wrong reasons. Tonight is clearly all about Bit Man and Chai Gau and Bit Ching as well. I was wondering after the anti climax where will we go? Well, somewhere except I just feel the story seems disjointed. Anyway shall explain more.

RECAP!!

Last scene, Bo Kei says ""He said he will plunge a knife into your heart like the assassins you hired did to him, so leave this house now, and you will die" and Bit Man got very very scared as Fung Yee asked the dog "Is it true? Did you see any suspiscious people out there?" and the dog said "Yes I think I did" and Fung Yee looked like she was about to faint as Bo Kei walked away and Fung Yee said to Bit Man "From now onwards you will stay indoor. Don't leave this house. Let me discuss this with your uncle and the official. Don't leave this house!"

Pause here.

When did Pang Hang became Bit Man's uncle? Technically he should be Bit Mo's uncle but suddenly Pang Hang was like family to Fung Yee. Never had that impression he was family, you know?

Bit Ching said to Bo Kei "4th mother, why didn't you tell us Chai Gau didn't die? How did he survive?" and Bo Kei explained again what happened and Bit Ching said "How come that Chai Gau Gor never told us he was alive? Making me and fellow brothers mourning for him!" but Bo Kei said "Chai Gau is now different from the Chai Gau you all knew. He became the Chai Gau I first met, he has lost all reason, he is no longer "human", he wants to kill Bit Man no matter the consequences" and Bit Ching said "But Chai Gau Gor shouldn't be a murderer for Bit Man" but Bo Kei sighed knowing Chai Gau has now become a truly angry man devoid of reason. I can't remember if it was here that Auntie Hing and Man walked in and were very happy to hear Chai Gau was still alive and Auntie Hing said something rather funny; "Ahhh so that bastard may have escaped punishment using corruption but he can never escape the heaven's punishment who let Chai Gau live so as to take this bastard's life! He deserves whatever Chai Gau will do to him!" and Bo Kei just looked at her, no comment given.

Pause here.

So Bo Kei does remember meeting Chai Gau for the first time when he was a hungry villager and she a scared resourceful servant in Episode 1. Never had that impression she did!

Anyway Bit Man... scared witless. He was running in a backalley and screaming "No! No!" when two men held him up against the wall and Chai Gau walked menacingly and plunged a knife into his heart. Bit Man woke up from the nightmare, drenched in sweat and he knew he had to do something.

Now this is where I said he was resourceful. Look, if you know someone is gonna kill you, what do you do? Well in the middle of the night Bit Man went to the other servant and said "You will rent a boat for me to escape to Shanghai tomorrow night. Tell no one, not even mother".

Bit Man was wearing some protective vest on his body, plunged a knife but that knife didn't even make a dent. He pulled on a pistol threateningly. Fung Yee knocked on the door and Bit Man hid the stuff and told Fung Yee he wasn't feeling well so he will sleep early. Fung Yee said why not ask a doctor to see him but Bit Man refused.

Pause here.

For all of Fung Yee's fault, she does care about her son and will do anything for him. I see that as a redeeming quality eventhough she really fails as a mother.

At night, he escaped. He wasn't running though. Boarded the boat and the boat guy said "Shall we go?" but Bit Man said "No, there's one more person I am waiting for" and he sat on the boat, waiting.

AHHHHH this is why he is resourceful. He is taking things into his own hands!! He is luring Chai Gau out and indeed no sooner he sat down Chai Gau came running out like some mad dog and plunged the knife into his heart but the protective vest stopped the knife and Chai Gau was taken by surprise! Instead Bit Man plunged a knife into his other side, severely wounding Chai Gau and as Chai Gau jumped off the boat, Bit Man shot Chai Gau near the back of the shoulder. He jumped in with Chai Gau, kinda gung ho even for Bit Man's standard and fought with Chai Gau under the water as each tried to kill the other but Chai Gau managed to escape and Bit Man cried in frustration.

Chai Gau was wounded severely, he dragged himself to the church knocking the huge wooden door screaming "Dr Brownnnnnnnnnn".

At home Fung Yee asked the servants where was Bit Man and everyone didn't know except for that other servant who confessed what Bit Man asked him to do. Fung Yee was angry and worried and asked them to find Bit Man.

Bo Kei meanwhile was worried about the civil unrest between the rebels and the empire.

Pause here.

I have yet to do any research on the civil unrest of the "Cheung Mo Chak" or I suppose literally Long Haired Thieves but I have a realiable source who told me a bit of the Taiping Revolution which she said was mounted by a large group, one of the deadliest attack on the empire formed by like minded people who grew tired of the empire's corruption. The leaders or some of them were Christians and they met during boxing training or something. That they may have lost eventually but their efforts severely wounded the empire and the Qing empire weakened further. Not sure how accurate but I suppose until I do a proper research I think the story is consistent.

But from the viewpoint of the ordinary people, they wouldn't care who wins or lose. But what they're worried about is got food or not, got job or not. Bo Kei was very worried not of the situation now or the aftermath but the time of in between where things may be lawless.

Anyway I think Bo Kei was discussing something with Bit Ching and family when someone came in and said Dr Brown sent for Bo Kei. Bit Ching wanted to follow.

At the church, Chai Gau was very hurt, Dr Brown saved his life and Chai Gau was even angrier. Bo Kei saw Chai Gau like that and quickly rushed to him and asked "What happened?" and Chai Gau looked at Bo Kei and asked angrily "Did you tell that bastard I am still alive?" and Bo Kei taken aback by his anger didn't quite respond as Chai Gau asked "Did you warn him about my plans to plunge my knife into his heart? Did you? DID YOU?!" and Bo Kei quietly said "Bit Man did this to you?" and angrily she said "Cheung Bit Man!" but Chai Gau said "Why 4th Madam? Why did you tell him?" and Bo kei said "I told him to scare him off! I told him so that he won't do anything but stay at home. Chai Gau, don't be a murderer for him! It is not worth it!" but Chai Gau angrily cried "4th Madam, you're the one person I most respect here and yet you're the one who betrays my trust! You knew I was going to take his life and after all, he is your husband's son! You will always protect your husband's son! Who am I to you? What does it matter that a low life like me lives or dies? That to you if I were to live or die does not concern you!!"

Pause here.

This was a very emotional scene. The actual words used were even harsher than above, Chai Gau was saying "Lei sei lei jin" which in English wouldn't do justice to the impact of the words but you could say it is akin to saying Bo Kei didn't care if he dies or lives dishonourably but the word JIN is worse than dishonourbly. I am not sure how to translate that to show its impact but Chai Gau was certainly wounded emotionally, unable to believe his most trusted person betrayed him for her husband's useless son whilst Bo Kei was taken aback by the severity of his choice of words. Powerful words I tell you. And however unfair those accusations were, Chai Gau does have a point.

Bo Kei said "Chai Gau, please listen to me..." but Chai Gau stopped her and said "You saved my life 4th Madam, countless of times. You gave me my career, you made me the 3rd manager, you looked upon me when no one would consider me, you took my hands and led me to safety when surrounded by Pang Hang's men...so 4th Madam, these wounds, consider them as payback for your help in the past. From this day forward you and I are no longer on the same track, I do not owe you anything anymore and I will have no regard for you in whatever I do!!"

Pause here.

I don't believe Chai Gau one bit. He would never abandon Bo Kei. These are just words of a very hurt person, you know hurt emotionally.

Before leaving he said to Bit Ching "I know you won't hurt me the way she did. We are still brothers young master" and Bit Ching nodded solemnly.

And so that was it. An apparent end of the great friendship between Bo Kei and Chai Gau. But even then I felt like it was a son's temper tantrum against his mother. And what makes him think Bit Ching won't help Bit Man? Well he won't. He did wanted to report Bit Man to the authorities when he thought he killed Chai Gau.

Anyway Bit Ching was very angry, he said "How could brother have done that?!" and he rushed home with Bo Kei and asked one of the servants "Where is eldest master?" and the servant said "He just returned home, very wet looking" and Bit Ching immediately went inside the house, took a huge stick and found Bit Man in the gardens and Bit Ching shouted "Cheung Bit Man! I will teach you a lesson on behalf of father!!" and he went on to beat the crap out of Bit Man who cried "What are you doing? I am your big brother, how dare you beat me?" and Bit Ching cried "I dare because I represent father! How could you do that to Chai Gau again? How could you hurt father the way you did? When he said in his will you get 70%, everyone was surprised, but I wasn't because I knew despite whatever father said and how he ignored you, he loved you the most!! How could you hurt him so?!" as he beat Bit Man again and again and Bit Man cried "I too wasn't surprised!! I know father loves me! I know!" and as Bit Man beat him some more his wife came and screamed "Stop! Stop! You will kill him! Stop!" and everyone urged him to stop, even Hing and Fong and I think Bo kei as well and as he was about to strike some more Fung Yee reached them and said "What do you think you're doing?!" and Bit Man ran to his mother and cried "Mother, this bastard brother is trying to beat me to death! Report him to the officials, arrest him!! Arrest him!!"

Some people never change.

Fung Yee calmly asked the servants standing behind did they see Bit Man being beaten and Bo kei said "Did anyone see anything? I don't think so" and Hing said "Nope, didn't see anything" and Man said "Neither did I" and Fong was there as well I think and said "I didn't either" and Fung Yee asked the servants again who all said "We just arrived, we didn't see anything" and Bo Kei before leaving said to Fung Yee "I know Husband has asked me to help him but now how could I after what he had done now?" and Fung Yee looked like she was about to say something but shut up whilst I can't remember what was Bit Man's expression. Worry perhaps?

Interesting gang up sort of scene. Quite funny actually.

Anyway Bo Kei looked at Bit Ching and overheard Man said admiringly "I didn't know my husband could be so manly, I like!" and Bit Ching teased "Of course, never make me angry!" and Bo Kei smiled a little.

Pause here.

Exciting scene with never heard before of young brother beating the crap out of older brother. Bit Ching is always someone who follows the traditions but this time he stepped out of if because he was damn pissed off with Bit Man. He felt Bit Man owed Chai Gau and to plan to kill Chai Gau again to him was the last straw. He beat Bit Man in place of Cheung Kiu. When he said what he said about Cheung Kiu and Bit Man specifically agreed with what he said, I feel then why Bit Man must be so useless? Why did he hurt Cheung Kiu so much like Bit Ching asked if he knew what he did was wrong? I believe if Bit Man were to repent, Bit Ching would forgive Bit Man but right now Bit Man is still stubborn as ever.

However in defense of Bit Man and like I said earlier, who would sit down and let themselves be killed? So I kinda understand why Bit Man did what he did as much as I understand why Chai Gau wanted Bit Man dead.

Chai Gau went back to his brothers, life went on when suddenly news came No. 1 was deeply injured. The brothers carried him in and Chai Gau ran to him and found out No. 1 was struck by bombs. Crying, Chai Gau tell him to hold on but No. 1 said "3rd Brother, swear to me you will take good care of our brothers! Swear to me!!" and Chai Gau cried saying "I swear I will" and No. 1 died in his arms. Very sad, I really liked the loyalty of No. 1 and No. 2 and their brothers. Even in death he thought of his brothers.

After the funeral, No. 2 said "Brothers, I plan to distribute our wealth equally amongst all of you so that you can leave and start life anew somewhere" and many were shocked by this plan as No. 2 explained "The rebels are fighting hard. I can't even be sure if the rebels will win or the empire will win. With such uncertainty, I hope you will find somewhere and start life anew. There is no more business for us to do here anymore" and the brothers cried "Brother, we will not leave! We will stick together!"

So loyal!!

Chai Gau stepped forward and said "Brothers, permit me to say something. I disagree with disbanding our association. We have gone legitimate and we musn't back down. We musn't leave! I believe the rebels are only fighting for the good of this nation, they wouldn't come in and destroy businesses. I believe whoever is the new leader, we can do business with that new leader, be they rebels or the empire. We must take this opportunity to usurp Pang Hang's business as well. Why only Pang Hang get to enjoy his monopoly over this town? I say it is time we get a share as well! How many more decades does one have? Seize the opportunity presented to us! Let's takeover Pang Hang's business as well!"

Frankly I get what Chai Gau is saying although not quite understand how he will implement his grand plan or whatever.

No. 2 was impressed and said "Brothers, we shall do as 3rd brother said and meanwhile I propose we elect a new leader of our association. I myself shall remain as No. 2 and I propose 3rd brother as our new leader!!" and Chai Gau said "No 2nd brother. If following ranks, it is your turn, never mine, I refuse" but No. 2 said "You have the brains to lead us and to usurp Pang Hang's influence and make our business bigger! To honour our first brother's memory!!" and Chai Gau finally agreed and said to rousing support and calls for the end of Pang Hang's monopoly "Alright my brothers! When I am done with my personal business I shall lead us all to glory, in memory of 1st brother!!". Hoi Tong standing nearby looked at the fierce looking Chai Gau and smiled, a look of immense pride and love clearly on her face.

Bo Kei sat down to write her diary. Time passes and Bo Kei narrated how they all heard gun shot and saw Bit Man dressed as a woman running into the house. He was trying to escape again but Chai Gau's men were waiting out there and she said "He was lucky he had a gun for protection. Chai Gau is still as angry as ever, I don't think he will ever let go of Bit Man. Time may have passed but he is still very much intent on killing Bit Man" and people were getting more and more worried as Bo Kei worried about rioting in the times of uncertainty. Bombs were everywhere and Bo Kei was scared too. She narrated how the official tried to persuade the merchants that everything is fine whilst asking for funding, she then passed by his house and saw servants burning official records and how his wife and children were being taken to safety and that made Bo Kei very worried as even officials are running away.Bo kei then asked herself "Was I right to insist on staying?"

Meanwhile she tried to mend the relationship with Chai Gau who was there to inform Bo Kei some rice successfully delivered and he is still very cold to her as she happily greeted "Oh yes Chai Gau, I should change the way I greet you. I should call you Master Chai now!" and Chai Gau just looked on coldly as Bo Kei teased "But Chai Gau, you're still tehnically an employee of Hing Fung Nin. You never did resign. So should I still refer to you as 3rd manager?" but Chai Gau said "Thank you" when she finished aknowledging some papers and he left. Bo Kei looked disappointed.

Pause here.

Ever since Chai Gau came back from death twice and after that outburst with Bo kei, there was a definite change to him. It felt like their positions are now equal. It used to be master-servant or saviour-"savee" so to speak, a certain reverence from Chai Gau and Bo Kei and respect from Bo Kei to Chai Gau but unequal but now they seem to be on equal footing. I feel Chai Gau being angrier and colder seems to be manlier and much older. I find this Chai Gau very attractive and if you were to tell me Chai Gau now has a relationship with Bo Kei, I would say they're a match.

Anyway Chai Gau went and greeted his former fellow workers with Bit Ching there and the workers asked "Chai Gau gor, what really happened? We heard you were killed but now you're alive, we heard you were missing and now you're the leader of your association! Which is true and which is not?" and Chai Gau smiled and said "Brothers, whatever it may be, you will always be my good brothers, and that is including you young 2nd master" and Bit Ching smiled and said "Well we will treat you to a drink, how about it?" and Chai Gau laughed and said "No no, I will treat you all! The dinner's on me and no one shall leave until we are all drunk!!". Bo Kei walked in and teased "How about me? Am I not your friend as well? Am I invited?" and Chai Gau subdued said "4th Madam, maybe another day. They wouldn't be able to chat freely when you're there" and Bo Kei smiled sadly since she was snubbed and she said "Chai Gau I do hope to sit down with you, I have something to discuss" and Chai Gau said "Ok".

Restaurant.

Bo Kei said "Remember this restaurant?" and Chai Gau nodded and said "Where you begged me to save Mo" and Bo kei said "Yes, you were such an arrogant twit then, I felt like hitting you but I had to be patient. Remember how you were then?" and she impersonated Chai Gau as she repeated what Chai Gau said back then about knowing and having observed something ".. and yet you refused to tell me" and Chai GAu said "Yes, I was very annoying back then wasn't I?" and BO Kei said "But you had that something. You were capable and I trusted your judgment which is why I need your opinion on an issue. What do you think will happen here in this town?" and Chai Gau seriously said "4th Madam, people here will suffer now, but when the war is over, they will suffer even more. In between now and the new administration, there would be chaos" and Bo Kei agreed. Bo Kei voiced her worries and Chai Gau said "4th Madam, I will say what I have always said..." and Bo Kei stopped him and smiled and said "Ahh those cringe worthy words again. Let me guess; 4th madam is the one person I respect the most here and..." and Chai Gau completed the sentence as he said ".. and I will do my utmost to assist 4th madam" and Bo Kei smiled, remembering his promises and then she said "Chai Gau, you will do as I say? Can you promise me one thing? Just one thing?" and Chai Gau said "Anything 4th Madam, I will promise you anything except for one. Please do not ask me to spare that bastard's life" and Bo Kei sighed as Chai Gau said "I have to go 4th Madam" and so he left.

Dinner at night, merchants, Pang Hang and Chai Gau all invited. Bo Kei said "As the chairman of the association of merchants, I hereby convene this meeting. As we all know, it has been a few days and not one official or imperial guard in sight. We are not sure who is winning and who is losing. People are scared. We are all alone here. I propose each of us put up a bit of money to hire private security guards to patrol the streets and guard our warehouses" and the merchants agreed and Pang HAng laughed and said "Well my 3000 men can come in handy and indeed I can easily deploy my men to guard the street and warehouses. But the question is can you afford my men's services?" and Chai Gau looked at him, annoyed. One merchant stood up and said "How much?" and Pang Hang said "Oh, simpplify the sum shall we? $88000" and the merchant cried "WHAT? $88000? Why are you taking advantage of us right now?!" and Pang Hang snarled "Well, try finding 3000 men at your disposal!" and Chai Gau stood up and said loudly "Gentlemen! I Chai Gau am willing to offer the same services, and let us not talk about fees! Just give us a generous ang pow packet, that will do!" and Pang Hang stood up and angrily said "You? With only 600 men? What can you do with 600 men?" and Chai Gau angrily and quite manly kinda way said "We 600 men are more effective than your 3000 men! My men are all healthy and able bodied but your men are all bloated from all the drinking and visits to the prostitute dens!" and Pang Hang retorted "So we shall see how you can manage! I can't guarantee my men will be happy with all the fee reduction and now this and they may do something during these troubled lawless time!" and of course the merchants asked if Pang Hang was threatening them (YES HE IS) as Pang Hang left I think and Chai Gau said loudly "Gentlemen! You have my guarantee! We will patrol the streets and guard the warehouses and you have my word you will not miss even one grain of rice!" and I swear I saw Bo Kei smiling admiringly at Chai Gau, especially during the time he was arguing with Pang Hang.

So Chai GAu planned the details who to protect what. 600 men? I often seen at most 30 people in the room. Anyway there were looting and No. 2 used a whip to stop the thieves and Chai Gau told Hing Fung Nin to open business, and this went on for some time, Pang Hang didn't do anything to create havoc, interestingly.

At home, Bo Kei assured everyone the war sounds like it was over since no bombing when Fong ran in in a panic and said "The empire has lost the war!" and so everyone was scared. Meanwhile Chai Gau told the men they can stop patrolling and the men said "I never thought I could do some good for this town! So what now?" and not sure who said this but it was said "It doesn't matter. We shall see who enters this town, rebel or the empire and we shall do business as usual".

But... won't these rebels rape, pillage and plunder? Why Chai Gau was so confident all will be normal irrespective who is the leader?

Then Chai Gau packed a gun and said "Since we are now effectively lawless, I plan to finish my personal business" and No. 2 said "Brother I know what you intend to do. Let me help you!" and Chai Gau refused but everyone said "Your vengeance is ours too! Let us help!" and Chai Gau agreed.

Such brotherhood. And so all of them were marching towards Cheung mansion.

Meanwhile at Cheung mansion the dog and Fung Yee brought in basin with water and scissors and told Bit Man he must cut off his pigtail since the rebel will be entering soon.

Wait! But the rebels won't win for long so when empire comes back, wouldn't no pigtails mean death?

Anyway Chai Gau arrived, knocked on the door and said "Where is Cheung Bit Man?" and servant ran inside as Bit Man cut his pigtail and was disturbed by the servant and he said "WHAT?" and servant said "Chai Gau is here for you young master" and at that moment he dramatically swing his head, the hair messy and that scene frozen. I kinda thought he looked rather pretty!

Next episode, Chai Gau puts a gun to Bit Man's head as Fung Yee puts a gun to Bo Kei's head. I tell you, love shall triumph over hate!

What a long recap! Since the anti-climax in last episode, I kinda thought this episode is exciting for disjointed from the main story. All those fighting for fortune is truly over and Bit Man lost and the story now shifts back to Hing Fung Nin and the town. Not boring at all, just inconsistent. I mean after the entire storyline concentrating on Hing Fung Nin and Cheung family, suddenly now everything is going private again.

Frankly I am not sure what to say about this episode except well, rather exciting to see Bit Man trying to escape the clutches of Chai Gau.

I do like how Hoi Tong looked at Chai Gau admiringly and how Bo Kei in her own way also looked at him admiringly.

As for Chai Gau, he is scary.

And that being said, KUDOS TO WAYNE LAI for an amazing portrayal of Chai Gau in this episode. How he suddenly changed. I mean he was hardened as in his soul before but this episode he became even colder, somehow wiser but so much more determined and a harder sort of man. Like I said, I see him now as Bo Kei's equal.

I also like how Bit Ching beat the crap out of Bit Man who totally deserve what he got BUT I kinda pity him you know; I mean if I were him I too will take matters in my own hands rather than sit and wait to die. But still... Bit Ching did the right thing. And so a praise to Pierre Ngo for the whole desperate Bit Man sort of performance and a special note to the fantastic close up of his face with mid length hair blowing to his one eyes half closed and another eyes opened wide look. I mean I don't know, I just like that freeze frame moment, so dramatic!

And there it is; everything about this episode is dramatic. But somehow I still feel like such a big anti climax and I am still waiting what else is there to tell? Maybe for Chai Gau and Bo Kei yes but for Bit Man and Fung Yee? They seem like their purpose is over whilst for Bit Ching and others seem the same as well. Only Chai Gau and Bo Kei seems to have a story to tell.

A special note on the performance of Nancy Wu. Very short scenes but she was effective. I did like her look of pride as Chai Gau took over the association. That is the look a wife should have for her husband. That pride look.

And yes Ron Ng... more expression today since he had a dramatic scene today, but still I swear his muscle on his face didn't even twitch one bit. How can someone beat and scold someone and still have the same expression?

Frankly no other comments except for ...

SAFE GUARDS SAMENESS

Ahhhh not so same anymore. Whatever sameness should end after the will reading, but I suppose this is like the beginning of Safe Guards, where there was an encounter with the rebels? We shall see if Bit Man may align himself with the rebels?

Ok, favourite line... favourite scene.. a bit torn between Chai Gau crying his heart out at Bo Kei's "betrayal" or my choice as below...

"I dare because I represent father! How could you do that to Chai Gau again? How could you hurt father the way you did? When he said in his will you get 70%, everyone was surprised, but I wasn't because I knew despite whatever father said and how he ignored you, he loved you the most!! How could you hurt him so?!"

- Bit Ching to Bit Man

EPISODE 19

2010-06-09T23:55:00.003+08:00

Remember last episode Cheung Kiu finally dies? And I was kinda hoping that the real power struggle starts from thereon eventhough there was a lot of power struggles before that? Let's just say I find this episode a huge anti-climax.

RECAP first...

Bo Kei put all company seals, cash, accounts books, client lists, etc into 3 boxes as watched by Bit Man and gang. Finally she said to Bit Man when handing the keys to him; "Bit Man, the keys which you have always wanted. Tomorrow morning you can ask the official to be here to witness the handover of the keys and the 3 boxes officially" and Bit Man smiled slyly and said "Thank you 4th mother". Bo Kei walked out and passed Fung Yee and said "You got what you wanted finally 1st sister" and Fung Yee just smiled.

And then of course a scene which totally justified my earlier observation that Fung Yee ain't that smart and clearly Bit Man is even stupid-er.

At night, Bo Kei and gang ran away with the 3 boxes. She gave the wrong keys to Bit Man.

In the morning Bit Man tried to open the locks and failed. Panicking, he was told by servants everyone as in Bo Kei, Bit Ching, Bit Mo, Lau Fong, Man and Hing all disappeared. They broken open the lock (can't they just knock down the door, not like it was made of steel?) and of course the boxes were missing. Fung Yee collapsed in a fit of what I shall call "she is smarter than I" moment and the official said "First madam, come with me to the courts to make a report. I will officially hunt down Hong Bo Kei, the fugitive!" and Pang Hang ordered his men to look for her, everywhere.

And so they looked, even at the church and Father Brown cooly continued with the choir lessons. When they left, we will find out that Father Brown aka Dr Brown aka Dr Bak Long actually hid them in the cellar and whilst bored they all happily joked at the expense of Bit Ching and they were laughing happily when Dr Brown walked in and he told them they will have to stay for awhile. Bo Kei apologised for dragging Dr Brown into this to which he said "4th Madam, please do not say that. I am as always willing to assist. However 4th Madam, you will need to follow me out in the night. There is someone who wants to see you" and of course Bo Kei was thinking who?

In the dead of the night, Bo Kei followed Dr Brown to some deep forest. Interesting that no one actually tailed Dr Brown. Anyway she saw a dark shadow in crutches far away and the shadow walked forward and it was Chai Gau, still frail and pale but looking very angry. Bo Kei was so happy uncharacteristically she ran to him, held his shoulders and in tears said "Chai Gau, you're still alive! How can that be?" ansd Chai Gau, now looking mighty angry said "Only by sheer luck that my heart was a little to the side. When they threw me into the river with a boulder tied to me, I was sinking fast but I knew I can't die like this. I swam up and was pushed down and I swam up again, I struggled for life until a fisherman spotted me and saved me" and Bo Kei was in tears as Chai Gau continued "4th Madam, it was Cheung Bit Man who wanted me dead! But you must promise me; do not seek justice for me. I will carry out the justice myself. Whatever he paid others to do to me, I will do the same on him" and Bo Kei shocked asked "What do you plan to do?" and Chai Gau just walked away and said "Remember 4th Madam, do not seek justice for me. I will handle this myself" and he was carried away as Hoi Tong said "He is still very weak, he needs rest" and Bo Kei though happy he was still alive was now very concerned what Chai Gau had in mind.

Anyway Bo kei is bidding her time waiting for the return of the Lord Prince. I didn't mention this since I missed it myself but Bo Kei knew Cheung Kiu wrote a will but she didn't know the contents.

Search still on and Bit Man assured the workers that everything is fine although none of them believed Bo Kei would run away just like that. Bit Man announced a reward of $100 for any information on Bo Kei and the workers seems concerned rather than interested.

Search still on! Now at home, Bit Man spoke with the workers and thanked them for their continued support. And then he said "Of course there are some of you here who gossipped that Hong Bo Kei wouldn't run away and said she was forced to do so by me. You know who you are. You are all fired! Get out of my house!" and no one moved and so Bit Man read the names and it was all 4th Madam gang so to speak. They protested, said they were just gossipping, they needed the jobs but Bit Man said "I know you are all not loyal to me hence you're all not loyal to Hing Fung Nin! Hing Fung Nin can no longer support such disloyal workers! Get out! All of you! Get out!" and they were pushed as the official, Pang Hang, Fung Yee and all looked but suddenly a voice thundered out "WHAT IS GOING ON?!" and all greeted him and the Prince said "I am here at the bequest of the late Master Cheung to assist him in settling his affairs. Where is Bo kei?" and Fung Yee I think was the one who said "She ran away" and the Prince thundered "Impossible! Did she not receive my letter I am on my way back?" and Bit Man and gang were explaining when someone said "4th Madam!" and there was Bo Kei and entire gang, carrying the 3 boxes and she greeted the Prince and the Prince said "Bo Kei, didn't you get my message? They said you ran away!" and I don't think she did, anyway she said with tears "My Lord, I have returned with the hope that you will assist us in settling our family issues. It is true I did run away but I was forced to because even before my husband was properly buried, these people were already carrying out plans to usurp power, takeover the business and takeover Cheung's family fortune! I had to run away until My Lord could return to judge this problem fairly" and Fung Yee said "My Lord, before my husband died, we all heard his last message which was to give the business to my son, the eldest grandchild, Bit Man" and Pang Hang and official said "Yes my lord, we heard it" and I think even the dog said so. Fong said "NO, HUSBAND DID NOT!"

Pause here. Basically same script as per last night as they were fighting over the keys. Anyway to repeat...

and Cheung Fatt said got, Bit Ching said NO and said father only said his and Bo Kei's name over and over again and Bit Ching angrily pointed at Bit Man and said "And they were cruel enough to want to deny me and 4th mother the last chance to say goodbye to father!!" and Bit Man tried to attack Bit Ching who fought back and even Bit Mo said there was no such thing and pandemonium as Lord Prince thundered "STOP!!" and everyone did and Lord Prince said "There is no need to argue about the division of assets as Master Cheung visited me one night and made 2 wills in this regard" and everyone was shocked except for Bo Kei as Prince said "Bo Kei knew about this but does not know the contents. I shall read out the first will..."

And he read out and we hear Cheung Kiu's voice as well as flashback... and the will was written to Bo Kei...

"Bo Kei, as I sat down tonight writing this last will and testament of mine, I remembered our younger days, when you were 8 and we were sitting on the grass looking into the night sky filled with stars and I remember when you were 15 or 16 (he may have said 14 or 15-meaning I did get her age right!) and how you were having a temper tantrum and the cute way you pursed your lips. Such beautiful memories Bo Kei and I remembered it all fondly. But I couldn't believe myself as I was taking this trip down memory lane and the one person I remembered the most was my useless unfilial son, Bit Man"

Bit Man looked shocked to hear his name.

"How I remembered the most was him, when he was born I have loved him so. I remember doting on him, going home eagerly after work just to look at him, I remember Fung Yee and I teaching him to read and write and he wrote his first words, mother and father and how happy I was.."

Bit Man looked somewhat human again as he has the look of remembering his past, a bit of regret whilst Fung Yee had the same look, sort of...

"I remember when father died insisting the business which then passed to me shall pass to his eldest grandchild that is Bit Man and I remember my father's wishes clearly and the truth is, despite Bit Man having done many misdeeds, I have always intended to carry out my father's wishes. Despite all that he has done, he is still the eldest grandchild of the Cheung family. And so this shall be my wishes; Cheung Bit Ching as my 2nd son shall have 15% of my fortune, Bit Mo as the 3rd son shall have 15% of my fortune and Bit Man shall inherit my business and 70% of my fortune..."

And everyone on Bo Kei side looked glum whilst Fung Yee smiled widely and Bit Man in total disbelief and Pang Hang said "It wasn't 60%! It was 70%! You all heard it wrong!!" and they were celebrating..

and here was the anti climax coming soon...

Lord Prince said "Hold on, I haven't finished yet"

and Cheung Kiu's voice ...

"Although Bit Man shall be takeover Hing Fung Nin, Bo Kei, you're to watch over him and to run the business for the next 5 years. If you feel he is ready, then you will pass to him the keys at the expiration of 5 years"

Ooohh Fung Yee looked offended, Bit Man shocked! Bo Kei, shocked as well!

"... however if that useless unfilial son, Bit Man does any misdeeds which in your opinion qualifies as a misdeed, whatever the misdeed shall be, as long as you say it is, with or without proof, this will shall be nullified and tore up and my 2nd will shall be read out by you and shall be applicable"

Oh pandemonium!!! Bit Man now very scared. Lord Prince said to Bo Kei, "So Bo Kei, this is the 2nd will which you need only open if you feel.." and Bo Kei immediately said "My Lord, there is no need to wait anyway. Let me tear up the first will.." and Fung Yee protested and said "4th sister, that is not fair to Bit Man! You can't just say he has done some misdeed and nullify husband's wish!" and Bo Kei looked at Bit Man and angrily said "Does hiring assassins to kill Chai Gau qualify as one?" and everyone was shocked as in Fung Yee and Fung Yee said "Where is your proof? You can't just say Bit Man did that!" and Bit Man protested and said "I did not do that! I did not!" but Lord Prince took the 1st will and said "Didn't any of you paid any attention to what Master Cheung said? She doesn't need to show proof, if she say it is, it shall be" and he tore up the first will!!

Pause here.

I know kinda unfair that she says so and so it shall be but we all know and even Cheung Kiu knows Bit Man in the end would have done something bad anyway. This was Cheung Kiu's way to secure Bo Kei's position and she knows Bo Kei will not simply allege something that is entirely not true. So I do think Cheung Kiu when he made the first will hoped for the best but knew Bit Man that useless son will not change and so put in the proviso. Luckily the prince was there, he was powerful enough to carry out the wishes.

Lord Prince said "Here Bo Kei, read the 2nd will" and Bo Kei tore open the will and read...

"I would not wish for this 2nd will to be read but if it is, it is my last will and testament that Bo Kei shall inherit the business and my entire business and she shall distribute my wealth as she deems fit. I trust her judgment and whatever her decision may be shall be my decision and I shall have no regrets over her decision. Meanwhile from today onwards my useless unfilial son Bit Man shall no longer be my son and his name will be removed from the family ancestry book and he shall no longer have any connection with Hing Fung Nin and the Cheung family ..."

and of course Lord Prince walked to the official and angrily said "You must clean your ears! How can you hear so differently from what the will says? Do you duty! Investigate the murder of Chai Gau and I trust you shall carry out your duty properly and justly!" and the official nodded and ordered Bit Man to be arrested pending investigation. Bit Man cried for help, begged Pang Hang who pushed him away and walked out whilst he was carried out by the guards as Fung Yee cried and followed him out. When they were gone, Bo Kei thanked the prince who said "Please do not thank me. Master Cheung has been a great benefactor of this empire, I am only doing my duty to assist Master Cheung" and he asked if he could stay there for the night for convenience and Bo Kei asked Bit Ching to arrange. They all then celebrated.

Bo Kei alone in her room re-reading the 2nd will and it seems she did not read out the last 2 lines where Cheung Kiu wrote "... however, that useless son and myself have spent some 20 years together. And so Bo Kei, if ever he is in deep trouble and you could help, please try your best to help him, for my sake"

Bo Kei was in a dilemma, how she could help or should she when Fung Yee came in and crying... "4th sister, you have won! You have won everything! Please, please save my son, just say it was all a misunderstanding!They're beating him, 30 lashes, as he passed out, they made him wake up and beat him some more! Bit Man can't stand these beatings! You and I can't co exist! We are destined to cancel each other out! You already won!" but Bo Kei said "He did do what he did! He did hired assassins to kill Chai Gau! Whatever situation he is in now, it is his own undoing! He reaps what he sows!" and FUng Yee saw the will and the last line and shouted in frustration as she cried "How can you not carry out Husband's last wishes? It is written here, you must help Bit Man!! Hong Bo Kei, the moment you walked into this family, you had the business, you had husband physically and in the end you even had his heart all to yourself! What else do you want? What else you want to take away from me? I can relinquish my right in this house! Whatever you want, you can take but please... please... return my son! Return me my Bit Man!!" as she kept kow towing again and again but Bo Kei said "There is nothing more I can do" and she walked out.

Pause here.

I kinda pity Fung Yee for a moment here. Everything she did, she did it not for her position. Basically she is secured, no one is fighting her for authority but the way I see it she did it all for Bit Man. Unfortunately Bit Man is kinda like a wrong investment here. I do pity her.

Guards came in the morning seeking urgent meeting with Prince and said the rebels were reaching town or somewhere. So he had to leave and before he did he advised Bo Kei to save the rice and all as the attack may reach this town. Lau Fong panicked, everyone did but Bo Kei said no worries. Meanwhile Fung Yee overheard that and quickly ran to the accounts room, broke the locks and took a lot of money. Bo Kei and Bit Ching saw her and tried to stop her, but not really did that will all their power and she ran away.

She ran to the prison, paid the money to the official and said "The prince has left! The situation is messy anyway. You can release my son, take this money" and the official reasoned that since Chai Gau's body can't be found, there was not enough evidence and moreover the Lord Prince might die or stripped off his power anyway and so Fung Yee, hair very messy went to the prison and Bit Man was on the floor crying for help and released him. Bo Kei and Bit Ching were on the streets looking at the chaos and was very worried if they should leave town as she was in a meeting and the merchants decided to leave but she couldn't because who then to feed the people when they saw quite openly Fung yee with a few guards carrying Bit Man home. Bit Ching angrily said "That corrupted official! Once the Lord Prince has left, he let brother go! I swear when the prince returns, I shall inform the prince of this!" but Bo Kei was silent. I mean what could she do?

Pause here.

Remember what I said no one is stopping Fung Yee or usurping her authority? This is the perfect example. No matter what Bo Kei will still take care of her, give her allowance, feed her and respectfully call her first sister. Her position is secure. It was funny how openly she had Bit Man carried home!

At home, Bo Kei was informed Bit Man is back but again what could she do? Even if Cheung Kiu kicked him out, Fung Yee can still bring him back and Bo Kei can't usurp Fung Yee's authority in that. That's why Fung yee is so stupid. Even Bit Ching won't do that.

Anyway at night, Bo Kei was asked to see Chai Gau who looked better now as Chai Gau said "4th Madam, thank you for giving me justice. I heard how you had that bastard arrested. But 4th madam, let him be. Let me handle the situation from now on" and Bo Kei asked with concern "What do you plan to do?" and Chai Gau said "He may have insulted me and called me a useless dog in the past but this time he has gone too far! I was stabbed in my heart by the assassins hired by that bastard and I shall repay in kind. I shall personally stab his heart once with a knife and we shall see if he can survive this like I did, whether his life is "hard" or mine is "harder" and Bo Kei was very afraid of a very angry Chai Gau.

Pause here.

If you don't understand "hard" in chinese it means whether one's life is more difficult to be stripped away than the other, not luck but more like will to live or rather will to live in accordance to in a way fate.

Bo Kei begged "Chai Gau, don't do it! Don't be a murderer for him! Don't!" but Chai Gau refused to listen and left.

At home, Bit Man who never learns wants to leave town and open a business elsewhere to fight Hing Fung Nin because no one respects him here, etc. This is like back to square one. Fung Yee scolded him but he refused to listen and ran out and said "I AM LEAVING!!!"

Bo Kei was walking into the house as she noticed some familiar looking faces disguised as beggar, fruit or whatever seller and she walked in and said to Bit Man coldly "If you want to die, then walk out of here by all means!" and Bit Man coldly said "What do you mean! I am leaving!" and Bo Kei said "Chai Gau has sent his men to observe you and the moment you leave this house he will have you taken away" and Bit Man went out, looked around and walked back in very scared as he asked "Chai Gau, isn't he dead?" and Bo kei said "He said he will plunge a knife into your heart like the assassins you hired did to him, so leave this house now, and you will die" and Bit Man and Fung Yee became very very scared and Bo Kei looked at Bit man I suppose with a bit of indifference? Anger?

Next episode, Chai Gau now very angry together with many brothers rushed into Cheung mansion and demanded for Bit Man.

Drama eh?

On one hand I think this is an exciting episode because of how Bo Kei won back the power and Chai Gau's threat but on the other hand, I feel it was such a big anti climax. So now that Bo Kei won the business, then what? Well back to Chai Gau's story. But it felt disjointed, like drama for drama sake. There isn't any consistency as in flow of story, like you reach the ultimate high and now came crashing down. The will story should be the last or almost last scene so for now that Bo Kei won, what else for Bit man and Fung Yee? Maybe the rebels will play a part in the story or I suppose the story will shift back to Hing Fung Nin itself.

Let's go to...

SAFE GUARDS SAMENESS

Very the same but very different impact. In Safe Guards, the will reading by the official was the ultimate punch in the stomach, the revelation of all revelations. It might be a convenient end but the impact was felt and gave the story the ultimate end and ultimate high. Anything after is of course just an epilogue since it was the final episode. That was why Safe Guards was so brilliant in consistent storytelling. In Rosy Business, with so many episodes to do, one wonders what's next? Of course you may say oh because the real story is Hing Fung Nin. Not quite since the struggle has always been there. In Safe Guards there was a satisfaction in the bad guys getting their comeuppance but in Rosy Business, for all of Fung Yee's bad luck, I did kinda hope she wins for once instead of winning for just a few seconds and then to have all that stripped away in mere seconds like you know anti climax. But yes, story same except purpose is different. In Rosy Business the will reading was a solution to the problems but not quite resolving the issues. In Safe Guards the will reading was the ultimate solution to all problems that resolves many many issues. I also like the fact that in Safe Guards the official (not a prince) was a rather busy man and also the guilt involved in having the will read that was borne by the old matriach that is the grandmother. In Rosy Business, Bo Kei didn't have to have such guilt since Bit Man is terrible but in Safe Guards what was done was also as terrible but it took a terrible toll on the old woman to have the will read, that it was clearly the end of all ends. For Bo Kei, it was just a tool. You know what I mean?

That is why Safe Guards is so brilliant in the storytelling but yes, Rosy Business very very exciting like Moonlight Resonance sort of exciting except Moonlight Resonance fails in all aspect of good storytelling whilst Rosy Business, thank godness still has a coherent story to tell.

Performance wise, ok Susan Tse was ok. She did looked mad for a moment in that scene with the official bargaining for Bit Man's release. I find it incredibly impossible that the official would dare to release Bit Man. I mean who gave the orders to investigate Bit Man? Not just some powerful official but a relative of the Emperor himself! Even if prince is gone, country in chaos, the official would not risk his position and offending the powerful prince for some money and for Cheung Bit Man. I find that utterly ridiculous. But Susan Tse did the mad look well and her best scene was the begging scene.

Sheren Teng is in fine form although I suspect when she asked Chai Gau to reconsider killing Bit Man was because of Cheung Kiu's sake.

Elliot Yu died already in last episode but you know I kinda miss Cheung Kiu. His will reading moment with flashback was probably the highlight of this episode, something tugging at my heart as he spoke how much he love Bit Man and how he remembered Bo Kei. I think he would wish Bo Kei gave birth to Bit Man because surely she will teach him well. What went wrong with Bit Man? He seems like such a good kid but what happened? Fung Yee's fault perhaps? Or it is in Bit Man himself? It would even more emotional if one line about how Cheung Kiu blames himself for how Bit Man turned out to be is inserted because I believe Cheung Kiu shares the blame. He clearly didn't have much time to teach this son.

Everybody else was ok as usual, except Ron Ng who is as wooden as ever.

One praise for Ron though; he did sing the wonderful themesong very well. The fact that he sang well didn't mean he sang well, it meant the song was good in the first place. Imagine a proper singer singing that song!! The opening theme does remind me of those China production though. I never really commented on that have I?

Anyway looking forward to see how Chai Gau kicked Bit Man's ass and how again Bit Man escaped. Like I said, he will never learn.

Favourite line....I suppose that one that for that one second Bit Man and Fung Yee thought they won...

"Despite all that he has done, he is still the eldest grandchild of the Cheung family. And so this shall be my wishes; Cheung Bit Ching as my 2nd son shall have 15% of my fortune, Bit Mo as the 3rd son shall have 15% of my fortune and Bit Man shall inherit my business and 70% of my fortune..."

- Cheung Kiu in his Will

EPISODE 18

2010-06-08T23:55:00.002+08:00

Ok, after like so many episodes I finally knew the priest is Dr Bak Long or as ASTRO translates it, Dr Brown. So Dr Brown he shall be!

Where was I? Frankly THIS IS the episode many of you are waiting for, the one where the real fight begins and I wasn't paying attention because house under renovation!

Meanwhile Bo Kei is in a dilemma. Fung Yee is being stupid together with Bit Man but she managed to calm the situation down when Fung Yee said "Let's report this to Husband!" and Bo Kei said "In fact let's report this to the authorities! We must! You weren't there but Uncle Cheung Fatt heard how Lord Prince promises to protect Chai Gau so if Chai Gau is missing or hurt, I will have the authorities investigate this! The governer would investigate this!" and Fung Yee of course backed off and said "Well, let's not make a big issue out of it then" but Cheung Fatt noticed Bit Man's hands shaking and he knew.. he knew...

In the room, Cheung Fatt asked Bit Man directly; "Did you hire the assassins to kill Chai Gau? Please tell me you didn't! Bit Man, how could you?!" but Fung Yee said "Uncle Cheung Fatt, surely you can't believe Bit Man is capable of such things? No, our stance is he didn't. Our solution now lies in Husband dying. We must prepare ourselves, we must carry out our plans, we can't retreat now, not now!" and Bit Man and Cheung Fatt looked rather scared of Fung Yee's determination.

Bo Kei in the room, she scolded Man and Hing and as everyone wondered what about justice for Chai Gau, Bo Kei sat down and said sadly and emotionally "I have promised Chai Gau that if anything bad happens to him, I will spend the rest of my life to do only one thing; to bring the murderer to justice. And the murderer is before me and yet I could not do anything. I have failed Chai Gau, I feel I have let Chai Gau down!" and she cried sadly. In fact I think this is one of those rare times she cried really hard.

4th Madam, I feel for you!

So I don't know how but Chai Gau's sworn brothers found Chai Gau, barely alive and in coma and they were told by a fisherman that he found him somewhere the river some 2 weeks ago and he has yet to wake up. The brothers quickly sent for Hoi Tong and hid Chai Gau, warning everybody not to tell anyone Chai Gau is still alive. They also needed a doctor and one of the funniest scene ever, they KIDNAPPED Dr Brown! Dr Brown was gagged and tied up and dragged to the hidden place and the No. 1 and No. 2 exclaimed "Why you tie him up?!" and they answered 'He refused to follow us! Said he had to go to some church or something!" and Dr Brown now freed said "Of course I won't follow you! I don't even know who, what, where and why!!" Hoi Tong came forward and said "Dr Brown, we need you to look at my husband who is a close friend of 4th Madam" and Dr Brown hearing her name agreed. After some time Dr Brown said "He will be fine. He needs deep rest for a month or so but he will be fine". No. 2 said "3rd Brother is so lucky he didn't get killed! The knife was in his heart!" and Dr Brown said "He is not lucky, but incredibly unique. His heart is not where it is, it is in fact a bit to the side so the knife didn't get plunged to his heart. I have heard of this condition but rarely documented" Hoi Tong was very happy and held on to him as No. 1 said "Who did this to you my brother? Tell me so that I can avenge you!" but Chai Gau was too weak and so Dr Brown said he must rest and he promised he will stay until Chai Gau wakes up and gets better.

Cheung Kiu looked slightly better but still very frail. I can't remember when this scene was but Bo Kei told Bit Ching "I think if you really love Ah Man, then better hurry up with the nuptials. Cheung Kiu prayed for at least 6 more months of life but Dr Brown did say he probably had only 1 month left. I don't want your father dying not seeing you married" and so Bit Ching agreed and he was married and Cheung Kiu's spirit lifted a bit.

Meanwhile, Mo was on a horse, half dead, assisted by some security guards and Cheung Kiu's faithful servant whose name I do not know. He alighted from the horse and cried NOOOOO when someone took something and he grabbed that thing back and it was a white urn and Mo cried "Mother..."

Pause.

I knew this was coming but what I didn't expect was how incredibly moving it was.

Mo came back, weak and tired and Bo Kei asked "Where is 2nd sister?" and Mo cried and said "Mother died from a blast when escaping the city!!" and of course Pang Hang heard that and started scolding and all and blamed Cheung Kiu for killing Kiu and ...

REPEAT AFTER ME!!

"... you only treated my sister as a ghost repelling talisman!!"

I swear and I hope this will be the last time I hear this stupid sentence ever again!

and Bo kei scolded "It was the rebels who killed 2nd sister, not Husband! Anyway let Mo rest and eat first and then let him narrate what happened".

So Mo cleaned up, hugged by his weak father, he began to narrate with a far off eyes, haunted eyes in fact.

Pause here.

Kudos to the actor for the haunted eyes.

Anyway he narrated and we see images...

"The rebels attacked the city not long after mother and I arrived. We hid in the bomb shelter but there was chaos everywhere. We heard how they killed everyone on sight and I was very scared but..."

Flashback to Kiu who cried "Don't worry Mo, we will escape, we will get home. Oh heaven I pray to you, let Mo and I safely get home. We just want to get home. I swear I understand now, I understand everything. I will not fight anymore, I will not insist anymore, I will let go, just let us go home, please..."

Mo continued... "and everyone else decided to run. Mother thought for awhile and then decided to run as well..."

Flashback...

Out in open field, Mo and Kiu were running with everyone else, the bombs were getting closer and closer and Mo was dragged away by the sea of panicking crowds, briefly separated from Kiu who cried "MO! MO!" whilst Mo cried "Motherrrrr... Motherrrr" and he rushed back to her against the crowd and found each other. Kiu hugged him close and took his hands and continue to run and one bomb hit nearby and Kiu cried "Please let us get home! Please! We just want to go home!", praying to the Heavens as they ran and then a bomb hit nearby her and she fell with Mo. Mo got up, ran to her and said "Mother, are you ok?" and Kiu got up and said "I am fine! Let's go home!" but within the next few steps she fell down hard and was weakened and Mo turned her back and saw shrapnels on everywhere on her body and he cried and held her as Kiu began to fade away slowly as she muttered "I will not insist anymore.. I will not fight anymore... please... please let me get back to home... please..."

Back to present, everyone, even Fung Yee was crying as Mo cried with vacant eyes and said "I held on to mother for sometime and she faded away slowly. As she died she kept saying she wants to go home. When she died, I didn't know what to do. I just held her until morning, and the place was deserted and then I saw them (the guards and the servant)..." and Mo cried very very hard and Cheung Kiu held onto to him, crying as well and Pang Hang just pointed at Cheung Kiu knowing that he can't be blamed, speechless Pang Hang angrily left.

Pause here.

I may say Pang Kiu's character is rather pointless most of the time but her death serves a very good purpose. Somehow it seems disconnected to the entire story and struggles but managed to inject a moment of humanity and sadness to the often time rather loud powerplay. The scene of Mo narrating what happened was very moving, how Kiu died was rather sad. I would have hoped she could get home and look at Cheung Kiu and tell him she is sorry and is ok with everything, or even help with the power struggle but well.. as gossip has it, even Kiki Sheung grew tired of her one note character. And yet interestingly her death scene or moments to that and thereafter probably gave this series a quiet moment of reflection. I felt very sad, also because the actor who played Mo did an excellent job in here and I like how Cheung Kiu comforted Mo, as he held onto Cheung Kiu. THis is almost modern in concept, a patriach comforting the young one, the way he held on to Mo, gently consoling him.

Funeral was held out of camera and Cheung Kiu was on the bed, sitting up, looking very pale. Mo came in and held onto Cheung Kiu in what I believe is one of the most tender moment in this series, and said "Father, mother is buried at that favourite place of hers, remember when we were little you took us 3 there?" and Cheung Kiu said "Yes I remember.." and Mo said "Father, get better soon. Then you can take us all there again..." and Cheung Kiu weakly looked at Mo and suddenly his hand fell limp...Mo shook him and panicking ran out and saw Fung Yee and told her "Father isn't gonna last any longer!" and he ran out and saw Bit Ching and told the same. Fong cried and Bit Ching administered the medicine Dr Brown gave and I think it was Fong who said "Go find 4th sister quick!" and he quickly rushed to find Bo Kei.

Meanwhile Fung Yee rushed Bit Man and Cheung Fatt and said rather coldly "He won't last any longer. Hurry up and carry out our plans..."

Cheung Fatt went to see Bo Kei at the office and said "4th Madam, Dr Brown just came back and said he has new medicine! He said to see you at the churh!" and Bo Kei very happy rushed to the church. Cheung Fatt looked at another old servant and kinda winked.

YOU BASTARD CHEUNG FATT!!! HOW CRUEL! HOW EVIL!!

Bit Ching came to the office and asked where was Bo Kei and that old servant said "In the warehouse" and another young servant said "But isn't she left for the church?" and the old servant said "Tsk,tsk... don't get involved!"

Meanwhile Pang Hang and even the governer I think or that official arguing about the rice in last episode (not sure his rank) were there and quickly surrounded the bed as Bit Man cried "father! Father..." and Fung Yee cried and said "Husband, do you have any last wishes?" and Cheung Kiu whispered "Bit Ching.. Bit Ching.." over and over again and Fong, Man and Hing knew they were up to no good but was pushed further back as Fung Yee loudly said "Oh Husband, you have forgiven Bit Man? I will teach Bit Man well, I promise!" and Bit Man said "Thank you father, I will not disappoint you!" and she said "What about the business?" and Cheung Kiu whispered "Bo Kei..., Bo Kei..." and Fung Yee said "Oh Husband! You want to give the business to Bit Man? He will do you proud I promise!" but Cheung Kiu shook his head and said "No.. No.. Bo Kei... Bo Kei..."

Meanwhile Bo Kei arrived at the church and knew she was tricked and ran back.

Fung Yee meanwhile continued her devious scheme...

"Husband, you said 20% to Bit Ching, 20% to Mo and 60% to Bit Man? Yes I will carry out your wishes!" and Fong stared at them...

Once back with Bit Ching they rushed in and they tried to block them but Bit Ching and Bo Kei managed to rammed straight to the bed and Bo Kei held on to Cheung Kiu's hands and cried "Cheung Kiu..." as Bit Ching cried "Father..." and Cheung Kiu took one last look at Bit Ching and then at Bo Kei and whispered "Bo Kei.. Bo Kei..." and he closed his eyes and died. Everyone cried very hard except for that 3 + 2 (that is official who I think is governer and Pang Hang)

You may ask what Pang Hang gets out of all these? Well, his fees for example...monopoly of the business remember? The governer? Well money of course!

The funeral was held. Some cried genuinely, some cried falsely, and after that Fung Yee took charge of everything. Bo Kei was coughing, pale and sick and crying too hard.

Once in the living room, governer and Pang Hang were there, Fung Yee went straight to point..

"Now that Husband has passed away, I as the eldest and legal wife shall carry out his wishes and run this household. Before Husband's death, he left 3 messages; one, he has forgiven Bit Man, two, the fortune will be divided into 10 parts, Mo takes 2 parts, Ching takes 2 parts and Bit Man takes 6 parts and three, he said 4th sister has worked so hard for our family and we are forever indebted to you. Bit Man, go and kow tow to 4th mother.." and Bit Man walked over and said "4th mother, thank you for all that you have done for us.." and he began to kneel as Bo Kei stopped him and said "I did what I should do, you don't need to do that" and so Bit Man walked back as he said "4th mother, you have worked hard and have done enough" and Fung yee I think said "It is time for you to stay at home and enjoy your well deserved rest my sister"

Pause

Like the way she put it. What a way to kick someone out. They didn't know there are 2 wills eh?

And so Fung Yee said "So sister, since it was Husband's wish for Bit Man to run the business, please handover the keys" as Bit Man said "4th mother, the keys please.." but Lau Fong angrily stepped forward and said "I did not hear Husband said that at all! In fact Husband was crying Ching and 4th sister's name the whole time, he did not mention about distribution or business or the keys!" and Bit Ching said the same with Hing and Man saying the same thing as Pang Hang walked forward and shouted "What do you all know? You were all so far away then! I heard he said those 3 messages!" and Mo stepped forward and said "I didn't! Father did not say such things!" and Pang Hang angrily look at Mo who angrily stared back and the governer said "Let me be the judge! I heard the 3 messages and so as the official of this town, it is within my power to pronounce the wishes of Master Cheung! Surrender the key!" and everyone cried surrender the keys as the other side denied such was said and Bo Kei was coughing hard and someone said "Let her rest first, we will then give you an answer!" and so Fung Yee said ok and let Bo Kei take her medicine. In the room everyone was worried but BO Kei quietly drank the medicine and servant came in and rushed her out and she did and again same thing, surrender the keys. Bo Kei walked right up to Fung Yee and said "1st sister, I would wish to ask you one question but before you answer, please remember your status, that you were from a prominent family and has been brought up to be a genteel woman and that you came into Cheung family at the age of 18 and has been married to Husband for 31 years."

Pause here. That makes Fung Yee 49. I know a few episodes back Cheung Kiu said she is in her 50s. That is an inconsistency but just let's ignore that because this is one explosive scene...

"Answer me this; did Cheung Kiu really said to give the business to Bit Man?"

Ahh Fung Yee, you're well brought up remember!!

Fung Yee coldly said "Yes he did"

Bo Kei walked to the Dog and said "Uncle Cheung Fatt, I was told that you came into this family a young boy and old Master Cheung liked you and educated you in the business and taught you how to use the abascus and trained you. So tell me Uncle Cheung Fatt, did husband said Bit Man to inherit the business?" and Cheung Fatt gulped a bit and said "Yes" and finally Bo Kei walked to Bit Man..

I was like Bo Kei that is pointless exercise. These people have no conscience!

And she said "Bit Man, you have done so many wrongs, but this is the time for you to redeem yourself. Did your father said to give you the business?" and Bit Man said "Yes he did and 4th mother, the keys, please.." and Bo Kei smiled sadly and cynically and said "Ok, fine. Give me 2 days to gather all the account books, the keys and prepare the handover. I will surrender everything after 2 days" and Fung yee said "Fine".

Next episode, Bo Kei runs away!! Bit Man gives reward to anyone who finds her AND Bo Kei saw Chai Gau and tearfully said "Chai Gau, you're alive?!"

So how does Bo Kei solves this? Running away with the company seal? Bit Man still takes over the business. Anyway I thought the last scene was just pure drama. Someone as intelligent as Bo Kei knew better than to ask them 3 those questions.

Anyway Cheung Kiu finally dies. And what a death! Poor guy! But before I proceed...

SAFE GUARD SAMENESS

SAME! SAME! SAME!!!!! All those trickery during patriach's death, same EXCEPT Fung Yee used that to gain power and ask for distribution of wealth whilst in Safe Guards, the old man was saying business to Seung Chi but the son and brother cried loudly and said "What? Don't die before leaving a message! What? What?" to drown out what he wanted to say! And the aftermath with Ben Wong crying the hardest and loudest will make you scream HYPOCRITE! Bit Man should be given such a scene, with him beating his chest and all. What a pity no such scene! Frankly whilst FUng Yee was clever to do what she did I still feel Safe Guards was better in the hypocrite sort of scene.

One question; did Fung Yee ever love Cheung Kiu? And yet here she was planning for his death and executing as he died. How cruel! And I was happy to see Mo and Fong standing up for what's right!

Performance wise, standout tonight is the actor who plays Mo. He plays him young, inexperience and terribly haunted. His narration in part that left me feel for Kiu's death scene. If he had been Ron Ng, I would have been laughing. Imagine Ron Ng, haunted. No way!! He would be stoned!

Yes Ron Ng was terrible as usual but you know I still like Bit Ching. I did heard Bit Ching calling Bo Kei "Mother" instead of "4th mother" in one scene!

Elliot Yue! Good bye! Farewell! Good scene and a good death! Love the final moments with Mo!

Susan Tse was ok. A bit opera-ish for my taste but still ok.

Pierre Ngo was too subdued. I was wishing he did a Ben Wong and cried his heart out, over the top. I find his performance during father's death and thereafter way way way too subdued. Be a hypocrite and make the scene fun and funny as well as sad and infuriating as Safe Guards was.

Anyway so very sad episode. No more comments except HOW MANY TIMES MUST BO KEI BE TRICKED BEFORE SHE STOPS BELIEVING WHATEVER UNCLE CHEUNG FATT SAYS?

Favourite line... difficult...a fight between Bo Kei looking at Cheung Kiu who looked back tenderly and muttering her name or Kiu's death. I will go with Kiu's death which was rather sad, not sadder but as sad ...

"I will not insist anymore.. I will not fight anymore... please... please let me get back to home... please..."

- Pang Kiu to herself/heaven

EPISODE 17

2010-06-07T23:55:00.000+08:00

No sign of Chai Gau, except for flashbacks. Let's just get this out of my chest; we all know he ain't dead. So where is he? How did he survive? Well the answer is NOT in this episode my friends. But we know how much he is missed.

Cheung Kiu is extremely worried and is very frail from worries about Kiu and Mo in the city now under attack by rebels. There were still no news and they were quietly having dinner when Fung Yee said "Husband, Bit Man told me he has friends in the city and he could help by asking his friends to find Kiu and Mo. What say you?" but Cheung Kiu just ignored her and Bit Man when suddenly Pang Hang rushed in and screamed "CHEUNG KIU! My sister and my nephew are in the city and missing. What are you doing to find them?! Don't you think I don't know how heartless you are! Before my sister left she was crying about how you see her as ..."

EVERYBODY, REPEAT AFTER ME ...

"... ghost repelling talisman!!"

Oh god, not that TZI GWAI LING FU sentence again!

"You have chased her away, so that you can live a happy life with your favourite, Hong Bo Kei! You better be looking for her, if anything bad happens to her, I will never let you live in peace!!"

And Cheung Kiu was very quiet and pale and Fung Yee said "Brother in law, husband is not that sort of man. He is looking..." and Bo Kei said "Look, we have sent men to look for 2nd sister and Mo, we are as worried about them as you!" and suddenly Bo Kei said "You leave first. We will inform you when we have news" and Pang Hang loudly said "You better find her or else!!! I know you have mistreated her, you too Hong Bo Kei! What have we Pang family done to deserve this treatment? My sister being chased away, my business being cut off by you all!!" and Bo Kei said "Master Hang, with regards to 2nd sister, don't you worry, we are looking for her and Mo. As for the business, whatever it is, Chai Gau and I will drop by later to discuss with you about it!" and Pang Hang without a pause said "Chai Gau? I don't want to talk to that despicable man! I will be more than happy if he is gone to begin with! Fine! I will leave!' and so he left. And I think Pang Hang left huffing and puffing.

Later gung ho Bit Man ran to Cheung Kiu with Fung Yee crying "Bit Man, don't, don't" and Bit Man said to Cheung Kiu who refused to look at him "Father, I have friends in the city. Let me go find my friends to help find 2nd mother and Mo. Father, I know I did wrong, let me redeem myself. I want to help, I want to find Mo, I am scared for him, I miss him very very much!" and Cheung Kiu said to Bo Kei "Bo Kei, you better check the shop. With this rebellion, I believe the officials may be coming soon to seek our help" and Bo Kei nodded and Cheung Kiu walked off without looking at Bit Man who was shrugging, Fung Yee knew things didn't look so good and Bo Kei just looked at them like Why are you both so damn fake huh?.

Pause here.

I forgot to mention in I believe 2 episodes or was it last episode when Fung Yee heard how Mo and Kiu are in a city under attacked, not only did she not feel afraid or worried, she smiled. EVIL.

Anyway, it has been 3 days since Chai Gau went missing. A very sombre Hoi Tong saw Pang Hang on a ermm chair being carried around? Open air sedan? Anyway, she ran to him and desperately cling on to him as she cried "Master Hang, I know you know things! Master Hang, Chai Gau hasn't been back for 3 days!" and Pang Hang snarled at her "You slut! What do I care about him?!" and Hoi Tong cried "Master Hang, I promise you, I promise I will leave this town, I promise I will leave Chai Gau, I promise you I will not appear before your eyes every again if you just tell me, where is Chai Gau? Master Hang, please!!!" and his men kicked her roughly and punched her I think. Bleeding on her face, she clung back to him and cried "I KNOW HE IS DEAD!! I KNOW YOU KILLED HIM! IS THAT TRUE? MASTER HANG, I JUST NEED TO KNOW!! PLEASEEEEEEEEEE! TELL ME, IS HE DEAD???" and they pushed her roughly onto the floor, kicked her a few times and Pang Hang snarled "I know what happened to Chai Gau but why should I tell you?" and he left. Hoi Tong lay on the streets with blood on her face and cried a little, like in frustration.

That night Chai Gau's sworn brothers swore to kill Pang Hang to avenge Chai Gau's death. The No. 1 said to No. 2 and brothers "Chai Gau has been missing for almost 5 days. I think we all know he must be dead. And we all know Pang Hang did it. We have gone legitimate, so to ask all of you to join me in avenging our 3rd brother's death is unfair to you all. You have a choice; you can choose to follow me or you can choose to stay back" and one angry young brother said "Chai Gau Gor is our saviour! Without him we wouldn't have a legitimate business, we wouldn't even have chicken for dinner! Avenge Chai Gau Gor's death! Avenge Chai Gau Gor's death!" and everybody cried in unison as Hoi Tong looked on.

Bo Kei too was very worried about Chai Gau. He was missing so many days when I am not sure who told her but someone told her that Chai Gau's sworn brothers have all gathered in Chai Gau's mansion and she knew something was up. She rushed there and saw the men equipped with knives and she asked them "What do you think you're doing?" and they of course said they want to kill Pang Hang and Bo kei said "Do you think this is best for you all? To kill? Half of you may not make it back, the other half may be arrested and thrown out of the country, is that what you want, your family never to see you ever again?" and the leader or No. 2 I think said "We don't care. We are not afraid. We will avenge for Chai Gau Gor's death!" and Bo Kei emotionally said "You think you're the only one who cares for Chai Gau? When I was in trouble over the keys incident, it was Chai Gau, a mere servant who came out and spoke on my behalf. He saved me countless of times and shown me loyalty and friendship. I knew him longer than any of you here and I have been through much more with him than any of you here! Killing Pang Hang now is not the solution. What made you so sure it was Pang Hang?" and Hoi Tong walked out and said "I knew Master Hang more than any of you, he is a very small minded man. He wouldn't be able to take the humiliation that Chai Gau brought upon him, in business and in marrying his woman! If not him, who else? Who?" and Bo Kei said "I don't know but it could be someone else. Please, give me 1 day, just 1 day to find the truth" and No. 1 said "4th Madam, 3th brother has always said the one person he most respect is you. We will follow your advise! Men, put down your knives!" and Bo Kei felt relieved for a second.

But she knew the answer is with Pang Hang. She went to see Pang Hang who rather sleep with his mistress and made Bo Kei wait. Bo Kei tired of waiting rushed into the backyard and as Pang Hang's man stopped her and grabbed her hand, she stared at him icily and he backed off (death stare!) and she just walked onto Pang Hang's room, sat next to the bed as she saw Pang Hang asleep with his woman in his arms. Pang Hang woke up, shocked and said "Wha... WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN MY ROOM?!" and Bo Kei said "I know you rule over this town and nothing escapes your eyes. I know you know what happened to Chai Gau. Tell me what you know" and Pang Hang smirked and said "Why should I?" and Bo Kei walked close and looked at him squarely in the eyes "Remember my vows? I will hunt you down for the rest of my life if that is the last thing I will do. I will inform Chai Gau's brothers that YOU killed Chai Gau" and Pang Hang smirked "Be my guest!" and Bo Kei said "I will then bring this up to the empire and sue you for killing Chai Gau " and Pang Hang smirked "As if I am very scared at your threat!" and Bo Kei said "And then I will inform Lord Prince that when he was away, you defied his order and you killed Chai Gau" and so she left and Pang Hang finally hearing the impact of her threat ran after her, saying "4th madam! 4th Madam! Come on, no need to be so serious! Ok ok, all I know is there were 3 strangers in disguise following him on 2 occasions. Apparently there were many people in the waiting line with wanting Chai Gau dead, not just me and it turns out I am no. 2 in the line! Here, take this letter, that is all I know! Stop framing me for Chai Gau's death!!"

Pause here.

Pang Hang was funny in the way he said no. 2 in the line. So it means someone else wanted Chai Gau dead even more!

Bo Kei took the letter back to Chai Gau's mansion and No. 1 read the letter and said "Someone hired 3 professional assassins to kill 3rd brother. Surely he must be dead by now! They rarely fail! They will usually collect the full sum after 5 days, so we still have time to trace who are the hired killers!" and Bo Kei and Hoi Tong looked very pale at the knowledge of hired assassins and in their mind they knew Chai Gau must be dead. And everyone wondered, who wanted Chai Gau dead more than Pang Hang?

Back at home, Bo Kei kept thinking "Who? Who?" when she remembered Bit Man knowing Chai Gau wrote 4 anonymous letters, Chai Gau saying it was Bit Man who tricked him into Hoi Tong's house and gave false accusations and suddenly it hit Bo Kei; "Bit Man?" and in the room, Bit Ching rushed in and said to Bo kei "4th Mother, how was it? Chai Gau Gor has been missing for so many days, is it Pang Hang's doing?" and Bo Kei cryptically said "Bit Ching, I want you to follow Bit Man and report to me what you see" and Bit Ching agreed. One maid ran in and said "Master has fell and knocked his head! He has fainted" so they rushed out. Priest came by, and spoke to Bo Kei "I am sorry to say Master Cheung's heart is failing. He doesn't have much time. Here, take this syringe, remember how I thought you to use it? Using this will give Master Cheung 1 more hour of time. There is nothing much I can do for now" and so he left and Bo Kei and Lau Fong all cried. Bit Man quickly said "Mother, I know of a taoist master who may be able to help, I go find him now?" and Fung Yee said "Whatever you can do, just go" and so Bit Man rushed out. Bo Kei, despite extreme sadness whispered to Bit Ching "Remember my instructions?" and Bit Ching followed Bit Man.

Bit Ching saw Bit Man stuffing money into water bottle, went to the river and threw the bottle to 3 men in a boat. He went back and told Bo Kei and Bo Kei let him read the letter Pang Hang gave (the one where the 3 men wrote to Pang Hang) and Bit Ching cried "Brother hired assassins to kill Chai Gau Gor? He truly has lost his mind! No, I must report this to the authorities!" but Bo Kei stopped him and said this isn't the time but Bit Ching insisted and said "Chai Gau Gor has helped us so much! We must give him justice! Father doesn't even care about brother anymore! We must stop protecting him!" but Bo Kei said "Your father must not know this. He is too frail. Moreover, he may say he doesn't care for Bit Man but in his heart he still do! (True! He kept asking everyone to report to him if Bit Man has changed) I will pursue this matter and give Chai Gau justice but not now! Bit Ching, promise me, tell no one, promise me!" and Bit Ching reluctantly agreed.

Hoi Tong and sworn brothers paid final respect to Chai Gau by the river and No. 1 said "I am sorry my brother, we can't trace the killers! We are useless! But we promise you we will carry out your dreams and make the business a success!" and No. 2 said to Hoi Tong "You will forever be our brother's wife. We will send you monthly allowance and take care of you for the rest of your life" and Hoi Tong nodded sadly.

At night, we see Hoi Tong crying hard and pitifully as she took out her jewelry. She remembered Chai Gau in the past including the dog bone incident and she cried even harder as she mourned for him.

Pause here.

I really thought she was going to kill herself. No she didn't but she cried really really hard as she sat on the bed all alone.

Meanwhile Bo Kei in her office was crying hard too as she thought of Chai Gau and how he stood up for her, how he scolded her, how he helped her and she cried even harder thinking of Chai Gau.

Next day or some days later, official turned up and said government needs help and insisted Hing Fung Nin donate I believe 100,000 sacks of rice? Kati? Pounds? Anyway 100,000 of some unit and Bo Kei could only give 3000 and the official was very angry and scolded "YOu're ready to bear the wrath of the empire?!" and then Cheung Kiu, weaken said "Yes I am ready to bear the wrath of the empire, I am ready to bankrupt Hing Fung Nin, I am ready for all the backlash and I will not let you take advantage of us like that!!" and so the official angrily left and suddenly Cheung Kiu collapsed as Bo Kei held onto him and he weakly said "Bo Kei.. Bo Kei... I am so sorry to burden you with this family, Bo Kei.. take care of this family, take care of them all" and Bo Kei cried and nodded. Anyway he isn't dead, yet.

Bit Ching too went to the river at night and burn some incense and hell money as he said sadly "I am sorry Chai Gau Gor, I am very sorry I can't give you justice!" as Man rushed to him and cried "What is it Ching? We are going to get married so please tell me! Is it Chai Gau Gor? Is he dead? Ching, don't bottle up, or you'll explode! Tell me! Share with me your pain!" and reluctantly Ching told her what he knew and Man was very shocked to hear all that.

Man and Hing saw Bit Man in the kitchen touching the pot of medicine meant for Cheung Kiu and quickly tookover as Bit Man left and Hing said "Throw away that pot. Who knows what this bastard is capable of doing? He may even want to kill Master for the inheritence" and Man said "Mother, that may not be true" but Hing said loudly "Well, look at how he killed Chai Gau!!" and Bit Man rushed in and cried "WHAT DID YOU SAY? I KILLED CHAI GAU? WHO TOLD YOU THAT?! WHO TOLD YOU?!" as they ran out and Bit Man slapped Man and Hing said loudly "2nd Young Master told us! He told us how you hired assassins to kill Chai Gau! You're a murderer!!" and Bit man continued to chase after them. Fung Yee and Cheung Fatt overheard and Fung Yee was reeling with shock as Cheung Fatt urgently turned to Fung Yee and said "What? Eldest young master hired assassins to kill Chai Gau? How can he do that?!" and Fung Yee stared sternly and said "What makes you think what they say is true?" and Cheung Fatt grew quiet.

Pause here.

I truly believe Fung Yee really think Bit Man incapable of murder eventhough even Cheung Fatt kinda believed the accusations which explains why Fung Yee so stupidly wanted to do what she wanted to do next..

Bit Man chased them into the hall and scolded "HOW DARE YOU ACCUSE ME!! HOW DARE YOU?!?!?" as Fung Yee and the dog came out and Bit Man rushed to her and Fung Yee cut him off and said "We will bring this to husband, let him decide, whether he will throw them out or send them to the courts for punishment! " and by that time Bit Ching was there trying to play down the matter and said "They just heard rumours! Just repeating rumours!" as Bit Man made a big hoo-haa of it all and Fung Yee too as Bo Kei returned and looked squarely at Fung Yee and said "Husband is very weak, must you cause a scene?" and Fung Yee said sternly "No one will falsely accuse my son and get away with it. I will have you return my son's good name! Go now!" as Man and Hing were scared, Bit Man acting like he was morally upright, Bit Ching staring at Bit Man and Bo Kei, thinking perhaps how to solve yet another crisis.

Next episode, Cheung Kiu finally collapses and dies when he heard from Mo how Kiu died in an explosion when she was escaping the city with Kiu!!!

Sad! Sad! Sad!

And poor Fung Yee; she really do think the best of her son! And why waste breath? Bit Man will dig his own grave, push himself into it and busy himself in it!

Chai Gau, where are you?

Anyway I was very touched by Hoi Tong's real feelings for Chai Gau. The way she begged Pang Hang, she really do love Chai Gau and the way she cried so hard for him... very sad to watch. Just a wife for half a day and now a potential widow.

The scene where Bo Kei cried too was very sad, she was truly grateful to Chai Gau and it shows.

This episode certainly shows how Chai Gau has a huge impact on everyone's life and how they responded to his probably death was touching and in Pang Hang's case, kinda funny as well.

Performance wise, I thought Nancy Wu did exceedingly well with her crying scene and how she begged. I am just glad she is beyond one mode of expression.

Ron Ng however was awful. Still one expression and such bad posture.

Everyone else was very good, even Susan Tse in her classic moment that is denying Bit Man ever had anything to do with Chai Gau's disappearance. Special mention to Sheren Teng and her really death stare at that poor servant trying to stop her from going into Pang Hang's room. If eyes can kill, that certainly can kill a lot!

SAFE GUARD SAMENESS

Not quite but in Safe Guard, Ben Wong wanted Evergreen Mak to die since he had affair with Evergreen Mak's wife and Evergreen died when Ben didn't reveal that the route he was to take was filled with very fierce bandits. So that's the same sort of plot, and Ben was supposed to be the prodigal son like Bit Man is the eldest son and first in line to the business. But Ben did it to protect himself selfishly whilst Bit Man did it out of revenge, as selfish of course. In both cases the mothers couldn't believe their sons capable of such evil acts. Safe Guard still a better story in this respect. I will predict when Cheung Kiu dies, Bit Man will cry the loudest, like Ben did in Safe Guards which to me was a classic scene.

Ok, favourite line...

"4th madam! 4th Madam! Come on, no need to be so serious! Ok ok, all I know is there were 3 strangers in disguise following him on 2 occasions. Apparently there were many people in the waiting line with wanting Chai Gau dead, not just me and it turns out I am no. 2 in the line! Here, take this letter, that is all I know! Stop framing me for Chai Gau's death!!"

- Pang Hang to Bo Kei

EPISODE 16

2010-06-04T23:55:00.004+08:00

I am posting this recap approx 2 and half days after watching this episode, reason being house under renovation! The date may be Friday's date but well, memory is a bit fuzzy since it is really written on Monday!

Ok, last scene, Chai Gau and his sworn brothers.

Chai Gau is looking to buy a mansion. He can afford it with all the percentage he got from the business and all. As he looked at the house, suddenly Bit Man hobbled to him (still injured from the last beating from mother) and smilingly said "Chai Gau Gor" and pretended to enter into a jovial conversation with a very confused Chai Gau as he tapped Chai Gau on the shoulders 3 times. The 3 assassins saw that and knew who their target was.

Suspense!!

Meeting at the river, 3 assassins seem to like travelling by boat. Anyway Bit Man got the message in the water bottle and it reads "We have your target in sight. However to carry out your order now is too risky. We will wait for the Lord Prince to leave first".

Anyway, Chai Gau continued his daily life, bought the mansion, his sworn brothers giving him expensive furnitures, all was happy when he got a message Hoi Tong wanted to see him. Curious, he went to the restaurant and there was Hoi Tong. Chai Gau asked "Hoi Tong? I thought you left for your village?" and Hoi Tong said "I did and I found out my mother died not long ago. I no longer have any family so I have decided to move to another town and start a small business. Chai Gau Gor, can you be so kind to lend me some more money?" and Chai Gau generously took out $100 and Hoi Tong very happily accepted it. She then saw Pang Hang and immediately she hid behind a pillar as Pang Hang came to Chai Gau and interestingly smiled at Chai Gau. He said "Chai Gau Gor! How nice to see you! I was thinking, you and I can help each other. Since your sworn brothers listen to you, why not you advise them to just purchase a dozen or so ships and not eat into my business so much? I have 3000 brothers to look after. Moreover I will make sure you get your share in the profit. What say you?" and Chai Gau arrogantly said "Sounds tempting but I think that is not possible. My brothers intend to go big in the business, buying a few dozens ships in fact" and Pang Hang angrily said "WHAT?" and Chai Gau said "So what? You want to hurt me? Don't forget, the Lord Prince protects 4th Madam and 4th Madam protects me. If anything happens to me, remember what she said, she will hunt you down if that is the last thing she will ever do!" and Pang Hang being very angry saw Hoi Tong running out and falling down after bumping into a customer of the restaurant. Pang Hang went to her and growled "You slut! I thought you have already left! What are you doing here?!" and he was about to strike her I think when Chai Gau went to her, held her up and said "Hoi Tong, why are you down on the floor? Have a bit of dignity, stand straight, never bow to some person here!Moreover..." as he looked at Pang Hang "since Lord Prince protects 4th Madam and 4th Madam protects me, rest assured Hoi Tong, I Chai Gau protect you! So don't be afraid!" and Pang Hang looked on angrily and then left. Chai Gau softly said to Hoi Tong "You better find a good man and marry. Have a better life than you have now" and so Chai Gau left.

Bo Kei and Cheung Kiu continues their daily lives with Cheung Kiu steadfastly ignoring Bit Man. Again can't remember the sequence but grandma came for a visit and Fung Yee said to Bit Man "We will pack now and propose to leave with grandma to the temple so stay there" and Bit Man cried "But mother, I don't want to do that! Temples full of nuns, no!" and Fung Yee slyly said "We don't need to, not when your grandmother is here..."

Dinner or lunch or whatever. The sky outside is forever bright in Rosy Business. Anyway gathering at the dinner table, Cheung Kiu eating happily when Fung Yee walked out with Bit Man and said "Mother, with your permission, Bit Man and I would like to follow you back to the temple and live there" and of course grandma cried "Nooooooooooo" and said "Bit Man is far too young to spend the rest of his life in the temple with me! Bit Man, you have caused such big trouble,you unfilial son! No wonder your father is angry!" and Bit Man softly said "Father I am sorrr" and grandma said "But you're willing to change ... Cheung Kiu, ask them to stay!" but Cheung Kiu continued eating and ignored them as Fung Yee quietly sobbed and Bit Man waiting for the keyword and I think even Fong trying to persuade Cheung Kiu, can't remember when grandma cried "Alright, I will make the decision. You unfilial son, as your punishment for your misdeeds, you will stay here and work at Hing Fung Nin as a servant, carrying water to everyone, working from the bottom! Understand?" and Bit Man said "Yes" but Cheung Kiu stood up and basically said very loudly "NO! HE WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN HING FUNG NIN AGAIN, EVER! HE WILL NOT HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH HING FUNG NIN!" and grandma quickly said "Ok, ok" and I think Cheung Kiu left and Fung Yee's plan kinda worked whilst Bit Man shrugged as clearly to him he had failed.

Chai Gau at home, sleeping when a knock on the door, opened it and it was Hoi Tong.

Pause.

HOW ON EARTH SHE GOT IN? NO ONE EVER LOCK THEIR DOORS?

Anyway, Hoi Tong walked in and as she talked, she slowly made her way to the bed...

"I was thinking Chai Gau Gor, instead of leaving, I would like to stay and .." as she sat on the bed she said "...be your woman"

Chai Gau looked tempted but said "But I will not marry you. I intend to marry a nice virgin (he did say that!) and set up a life with the girl and have a few children.." and Hoi Tong quickly said "I don't need any recognition Chai Gau Gor, all I need is for you to take care of me, I am very happy with just that" and she motioned for him to join her in the bed which of course he did.

Pause here.

A rather funny scene in the way Chai Gau said he wishes to marry a virgin aka a nice girl from a reputable family unlike Hoi Tong who is considered a mistress, not even a 2nd wife).

Hoi Tong went shopping, now dressed decently again and was looking at a few porcelein stuff and didn't want to buy since they were expensive (very considerate in view of Chai Gau's pocket!) when Pang Hang walked by and snarled "What are you doing here slut!" and quietly said "Look, how much you want? I will pay you, just stop humiliating me with your presence and leave! Don't stay with Chai Gau!" but Hoi Tong refused and said "I will stay with him because I am in love with him!" and Pang Hang insulted her as slut and all and then slapped her very hard.

She went home, Chai Gau with sworn brothers chatting happily as No. 2 called her "Ah Sou" meaning "wife of brother" which is a greeting marked with respect even if she was a mistress and she covered her cheek and happily greeted back and she wanted to go back into her room when Chai Gau stopped her and said "Why ae you covering your face?" and he saw ahuge red mark on her cheek and asked "Who did this?" and the rest asked also but Hoi Tong said "Oh, that's nothing! I fell" but Chai Gau said "Pang Hang, is it? He did this?" and his brothers quickly said "We will seek justice for Ah Sou!" and was leaving with Chai Gau as well when Hoi Tong begged them not to and said "Let it be! It's ok!" but they refused and Hoi Tong desperately said "Please my brothers, please... don't make an issue out of this small matter! I don't want Pang Hang to cause Chai Gau Gor any trouble, he is just starting to find his footing in the town, I don't want him to be troubled by me, please..." and Chai Gau was very touched by her gesture and Chai Gau said "Hoi Tong, I may not marry you as my first wife, but I have decided to give you some recognition. I will marry you as my 2nd wife, are you ok with that?" and Hoi Tong was very happy and his brothers said "Well then congratulations! Please accept 30 tables at the wedding banquet as our gift! We will make this the merriest wedding ever!" and everyone was happy.

Chai Gau happily went about giving wedding invitations and he gave one to Bo Kei who said "Chai Gau, I know this is a happy occasion for you but must you hold such a big wedding banquet? It is not wise to offend Pang Hang further" but Chai Gau said "But 4th Madam, it was my brothers' idea and a gift, I can't refuse. Moreover I can't help it if Pang Hang is nursing a broken heart, it is none of my business anyway. It is my wedding 4th Madam, my first ever!" and so Bo Kei just sighed. Chai Gau continued giving cards, inviting fellow employees "Remember to be early! Come and join the celebration!" and passing by Pang Hang he gave him an invitation as well and arrogantly said "Remember, Lord Prince protects 4th Madam, 4th Madam protects me, and now I Chai Gau protect Hoi Tong!" and left.

Pang Hang's men suggested they kill Chai Gau when the Lord Prince leaves but Pang Hang said "I noticed these 3 men have been following Chai Gau. Everytime we see Chai Gau, we see them. They look new in this town. Check out their background" and so his men did.

Not long later Pang Hang received a letter which wrote "Master Pang Hang, we apologise for not paying you a visit as courtesy calls as you're the master of this town. We are here for a short business stint and let us assure you it has nothing to do with you. We will leave as soon as our business is done" and Pang Hang wondered loudly "I wonder what is their business in this town?"

Imagine if Chai Gau is dead, who will be blamed first? Most obviously Pang Hang.

Cheung Kiu and Bo Kei followed Bit Ching and Ah Man who are dating. Boring stuff except Cheung Kiu suffered a mild chest problem as he was exerting too much energy. Just know Cheung Kiu has 3 wishes before his death; one is Hing Fung Nin does well and is stable, Lau Fong stop being so timid and protect herself and Bit Ching marrying. Anyway Bit Ching said he wanted to marry Ah Mand and then Auntie Hing revealed Ah Man was once married off to an old sickly guy who died shortly before the whole sleeping together night because they were so poor but Cheung Kiu didn't like that and opposes the wedding. Ahhhh SAFE GUARDS! Anyway Ah Man bursts into tears and said "See! I told you your father will never approve of me! See!"

Pause here.

Ah Man is my least favourite girl character right now. She sounded like such a brat as she cried, like as if she is right and everyone is bloody wrong. I find Hoi Tong more appealing, her loyalty to Chai Gau was very moving. But Ah Man, I felt like slapping her and her pairing with Bit Ching is terrible, with Ching like a henpeck husband and Ah Man the bitchy wife. Of course a man of such good reputation as Cheung Kiu will oppose. She did come from poor background, was a swindler, was in jail, probably doesn't know how to read and write as well, so what makes her think he will agree? Even Chai Gau won't marry Hoi Tong as 1st wife! But of course Cheung Kiu was using this as a test for Lau Fong...

Lau Fong rushed into the room and argued with Cheung Kiu. She scolded Cheung Kiu "They didn't have to reveal that but they did. They may have been a swindler, but they have changed! Your son loves her! Let them marry!" but Cheung Kiu refused and Lau Fong was so angry she said "You're such a stubborn old fool! Stubborn old floor!" and Cheung Kiu roared "What did you say?!" and Ah Man rushed in and said "Please don't fight because of us" and Lau Fong stuttered a bit and then loudly said "STUBBORN OLD FOOL!!" and suddenly Cheung Kiu laughed out loud and said "You have found your voice Fong! I am so happy" as he hugged her tightly and Fong was very confused until Cheung Kiu and Bo Kei explained his behaviour and Cheung Kiu said "My wishes are coming true!"

Ahhh which means Cheung Kiu is gonna die soon!

Anyway wedding night of Chai Gau, Chai Gau dead drunk, Hoi Tong dead drunk, stumbled into their room and onto bed and into deep sleep when 3 masked men came at night and kidnapped Chai Gau as Hoi Tong slept on.

In the morning, in some forest near the river, Chai Gau was released and saw 3 men hovered over him and panicking he said "Who sent you? Whoever did, I will pay you 3 times the price, 4 times, 10 times! Pang Hang sent you isn't it? Remember, 4th madam protects me, she will never rest until my killers are brought to justice!" but one of the masken man said "It is only fair you know who wanted you dead so that you will find your killer when you're dead and seek justice. It was Cheung Bit Man" and Chai Gau's eyes widen with shock as one man plunged a small knife into his heart or nearby from the looks of it.

At that moment, Bo Kei woke up in the early morning light and had a sudden panic attack, not understanding why.

Chai Gau was lying on the fields, with the knife still in him, he was not moving as the 3 men threw hell's money around him, tied a large rock on him and threw him into the river. As Chai Gau was sinking with blood still flowing out, he suddenly awoke and struggled against sinking but he was still sinking deeper and deeper and deeper...

HOW CAN CHAI GAU SURVIVE???? AND SUCH UNPROFESSIONAL KILLERS. SHOULD HAVE CUT OFF HIS HEAD RIGHT? AND REVEALING THE CLIENT'S NAME IS UNPROFESSIONAL!!

Anyway again 3 men on a boat, this is getting a bit cliche and Bit Man read the message which says "Deed is done. We will return after 5 days to prove that target is indeed dead and we will collect our balance then" and Bit Man smiled happily.

Breakfast I think when official came and told Cheung Kiu there was some riot and anti government movement where Pang Kiu and Mo were. Cheung Kiu panicked and Bo Kei quickly arranges for security guards to travel there, find them and escort them back but Cheung Kiu was still very worried.

Hoi Tong woke up and didn't see Chai Gau. Some time passes, she went to see Bo Kei and said "4th Madam, Chai Gau is missing!" and Bo Kei said "Maybe he is somewhere else, working" but Hoi Tong said "I searched everywhere. And Chai Gau Gor promised to take me to honeymoon, he took days off. He is missing 4th Madam, I am afraid something bad may have happened!" and suddenly Bo Kei too became very very worried.

Next episode, Hoi Tong confronted Pang Hang and caused a scene as she cried and accused Pang Hang of murdering Chai Gau and Bit Ching found out Bit Man was the client and told Bo Kei that he couldn't believe it was Bit Man and that Bit Man is beyond help".

(ADD) I forgot to add in this episode I think Cheung Kiu met with Lord Prince in secret and created 2 wills which prompted the prince to lament "Master Cheung, I admire you, you have made such great efforts for your family in love and concern as in the wills you prepared" and Cheung Kiu smiled sadly as if to acknowledge how true. We don't know the contents of the will but I am sure we will know soon enough which like Safe Guards will solve the power struggle and get rid of Fung Yee once and for all.

So we all know Chai Gau didn't die but how did he survive? And frankly Fung Yee would have slapped Bit Man for being stupid again! Poor Fung Yee, a failed villainess because the person she is assisting is a total idiot.

Anyway a suspenseful episode marred by the fact that we kinda know a bit of today's episode thanks to preview from the last episode. However I do like Hoi Tong's devotion to Chai Gau. I thought it was very sincere of her. Ah Man irritates me.

As for performances, no comment except I kinda like Nancy Wu now that she has more than 1 expression (you know arrogant look).

Ron Ng...zero chemistry with that Ah Man actress.

The rest, no comment.

SAFE GUARD SAMENESS

Father opposes to wedding of son to a nice but not reputable girl. Except it was even more touching in Safe Guards because

1. ok the actress was terrible but at least her character gentler than this Ah Man!

2. father did oppose to the marriage because of the girl previously marrying someone else who had divorced her (same!!)

3. he agreed in the end after provoked by busybody brother who said how this girl is hurting his reputation but he reasoned he is rich so he is immune to criticism moreover doesn't all father wishes their son to marry a good girl and give them a good daughter in law? (in here it is just a test for Lau Fong to speak up, so frankly, less impact in my opinion).

Safe Guards still a better coherent story in my opinion.

Favourite line... difficult since not one particular scene stood out except for the Chai Gau murdered scene...

"But I will not marry you. I intend to marry a nice virgin and set up a life with the girl and have a few children.."

- Chai Gau to Hoi Tong

EPISODE 15

2010-06-03T23:55:00.002+08:00

What more can I say? Bit Man is really stupid. And Safe Guards has a better story but Rosy Business thus far is very dramatic and exciting. These 2 can be mutually exclusive.

Recap...

The doctor said Bit Man will be bed ridden either for 2 months or 2 weeks, I didn't hear that. I think 2 months may be it, since you know, he could hardly stand. He blamed everyone but himself, he said "Mother I don't want this father! I am not gonna take the medicine! I don't have such a heartless father! And that woman, if only she helped me, if only she says it was Pang Hang who kidnapped me and asked for ransom!" and Fung Yee perhaps being her true self here said with tears "Bit Man, you can rise again! Your father will forgive you! You must heal your wounds! Then we will plan but now drink, drink the medicine!" and so he did. The dog was there looking on.

Well, let's all blame Bo Kei! But they just conveniently forgot how Bo Kei rushed to raise the money or how she told Bit Man to shut up.

Fung Yee went to see Cheung Kiu and asked Bo Kei to leave the room. Once alone with Cheung Kiu, Fung Yee basically cried and begged sort of nagged her way to make Cheung Kiu drink the tea she said represented Bit Man's offering of tea of apologies and he was nagged to drink it and he said curtly "I know what to do!". So Fung Yee got her way. On her way out she gave Bo Kei the death stare, again blame Bo Kei for everything whilst Bo Kei looked back, unsure how to react. Fear? Frustration? Like she can't believe FUng Yee can have that reaction?

Pause here. Safe Guard Sameness here. As Fung Yee begged and cried, Cheung Kiu closed his eyes, tired, older, probably not listening. It reminded me of that infuriating scene of Ben Wong begging a bed ridden and old and tired Kok Fung who just closed his eyes and a single tear flowed down his pale cheeks. Again Safe Guards did it better in the sense it was the prodigal son who was begging and a disappointed father who refused to listen any more to his crap. Here Fung Yee isn't exactly that.

Bo Kei walked in and Cheung Kiu said he wanted to see Pang Kiu. So he went to Kiu and straight away asked "Why did you do it? Why did you chase Fong out and frame Auntie Hing and helped Bit Man to revolt for the keys?" and Kiu said "Did that woman told you?" and Cheung Kiu said "Neither Bo Kei nor Bit Ching said anything. I demanded answers from the servants, they told me everything. Why Kiu? WHY? I have treated all 4 of you fairly, I loved you all fairly, why you could take Fung Yee's side and hurt me so? Fung Yee I understand. She is in her 50s, has only one son and will do everything for her son to secure her position. But Kiu, Bit Mo is studious and will be a scholar and a government official. There is nothing for you to fight for on behalf of Mo! Why?!" and Kiu released her anger and said "Because I was fighting for myself. Because I was your talisman to ward off my brother!" and Cheung Kiu taken aback said "What are you saying?" and Kiu cried "Didn't you marry me because you were forced to? Didn't you say better to marry a talisman to ward off an evil entity? Didn't you demanded for discount on the transportation fees?" and Cheung Kiu said "It was so long ago, I can't even remember!" and Kiu said "I was very touched when I read your diary, about how you got the doctor during the last locusts attack, how you said to save me instead of Mo, I was very touched but I can't forget you married me because I was a talisman to you!" and Cheung Kiu said "Kiu, do you really think after so many years of marriage that I have no feeling for you?" and Kiu said "I don't know what to think. I just know I was your talisman. One more thing; I am following Mo to the capital for his scholar exams, to get away from here for awhile" and Cheung Kiu said "He has teachers following him, this is a good time for you to stay and repair the relationships between sisters" but Kiu said "Am I really your wife? I have to leave. I need time to think about my role in this family, who am I to you" and she walked out leaving Cheung Kiu exasperated.

Meanwhile, Hoi Tong was washing Pang Hang's feet when Pang Hang kicked her and scolded "I want you out on the streets! I want you to be a beggar! Get out!!" and Hoi Tong was thrown out crying and begging for mercy.

Bit Man was eating porridge with Fung Yee helping him when the dog said Hoi Tong was outside, wanting to see Bit Man who again blamed everyone else when he said "What is she doing here? Hasn't she caused me enough trouble as it is?" and Fung Yee said "Uncle Cheung Fatt, tell her to not bother Bit Man anymore. If anything tell her to beg Chai Gau for help!" and Bit Man asked "Mother, what does Chai Gau got to do with this?" and Fung Yee said "It was Chai Gau who wrote 4 anonymous letters to Pang Hang" and Bit Man was of course naturally very very angry. Uncle Cheung Fatt told Hoi Tong the same.

Hoi Tong ambushed Chai Gau and beat Chai Gau who roughly pushed her away. It was quite funny actually as Hoi Tong cried "How can you do this to me? What have I done to deserve this? Why did you tell Master Hang? Why did you hurt me so?!" and she seems to forget a lot of things eh? Chai Gau angrily said "What?! Have you forgotten about me almost turned into a roasted pig thanks to you and your lover boy? Now you blame me? Your current predicament is nobody's fault but your own! You're worse off because of your own undoing! Don't you blame me!" and he walked into his shack as Hoi Tong wanted to hit him more.

Pause here. Don't being 3rd Manager come with good housing benefit? That is a shack!!

Chai Gau met with his sworn brothers and No. 2 gave him lots of money and said "Chai Gau Gor, you're the brains of our group. We want to earn more legitimate money. Can you teach us how since we have some to invest?" and Chai Gau smiled and said "Well I will think about it".

At Hing Fung Nin, he pestered Bo Kei liked a child pestering his mother as he asked "4th Madam, maybe we have a different strategy for transportation? My sworn brothers are ready to take on more responsibilities and they are willing to borrow and invest in some new ships for transportation by sea! Look, we can save a lot for the company!" but Bo Kei said "That can't be done" but Chai Gau persisted "4th Madam, how many more decades does one have? Seize the chance!" but Bo Kei told him to forget about it and yet Chai Gau pestered her and finally she said "Do you know what you're suggesting? You are cutting Pang Hang's rice bowl. I am afraid even if you could implement this plan, you will not be able to enjoy the fruits of your labour! So don't dare to do anything rash!" but Chai Gau of course didn't think that way.

Pause here.

What Bo Kei meant is actually Chai Gau won't live to see the day if he implemented the idea as surely Pang Hang will kill him.

Later that night he was again ambushed by Hoi Tong outside his shack but this time Hoi Tong looked dirty and unkept and was more humble. Again a very funny scene as Chai Gau kept telling her to stand further away as she slowly approached him and pleaded "Chai Gau Gor, please help me! No one will help me!" and Chai Gau said "You can find work! Find a job to support yourself!" and she said "No one will hire me because of Master Hang! Chai Gau Gor, I just need $10 to go home to my village. Since we are from the same village, Chai Gau Gor, pity me and lend me $10? I just want to go home!" and Chai Gau said "Who is at your village?" and she cried "Just my mother. I was once married before, but he died in the great flood and I had to come to the city to work and this was when I met Master Hang" and Chai Gau said "That great flood? I remember I had to eat roots and leaves for entire 6 months" and he took out some money and said "Here is $20, take it" and she gratefully took it and cried thank you and ran. Chai Gau does have a soft heart. Anyway he walked into his shack, slept on bed and felt something wet and it was blood and there was some carcass on his bed ala The Godfather and he saw a note and it was Pang Hang's message, can't remember what.

Chia Gau angrily went to see Pang Hang at some restaurant filled with his men with only a small knife. Very brave and incredibly stupid. Chai Gau said "Master Hang, what did I do now to earn your displeasure?" and Pang Hang said "Didn't I say no one can assist that whore? I wanted her to become a beggar and you assisted her! Grab him, cut him into 18 pieces and throw him into the river!"

Pause here.

PLOT PROBLEM!! MAJOR PLOT HOLE! How did he know when just shortly afterwards between money and bed was like seconds? He wouldn't have time to find out!! Ah ha! TVB you SCREWED UP!!!

Continue...

Chai Gau arrogantly said "You said so yourself Master Hang, she is a beggar and so I was just giving money to a beggar since I have extra cash. Can't I do that? Moreover my life may worth very little but yours worth more Master Hang. Surely you wouldn't think my life is worth the troubles 4th Madam will cause you? Remember she has sworn if anything bad happened to me she will spend the rest of her life bringing you to justice!" and he threw down the small knife about to leave but Pang Hang said "What about explaining to my men what your brothers are doing, planning to buy ships and all?" and Chai Gau was very quiet and then he said "What are you talking about?" and Pang Hang roared "Don't you lie to me! They were asking about the prices of ships!" and Chai Gau said "Like you said, they were just asking! They weren't doing anything!" but Pang Hang refused to let him leave and the men grabbed Chai Gau and Pang Hang sneered "You will swear that you will not execute nor plan the business strategy of transportation by ships!" but Chai Gau refused and said "Master Hang you don't scare me anymore!" and he was pushed to kneel down as Pang Hang pointed a pistol at his head and Chai Gau said "I am not afraid. I have seen a pistol before, you don't scare me!" and Pang Hang fired one shot into the air and of course Chai Gau immeidately fell into pieces as he shook, spluttered and became very scared and said "Master Hang, I can swear! I can swear! I will not execute or plan the business strategy" and Pang Hang said "You will also not talk or think about it" and he said "Or talk or think about it or may thunder strike me!" and Chai Gau was allowed to leave but he was pushed and he tumbled down the stairs.

In the morning he was boiling some medicine, his body sore and in pain as Bo Kei saw him and said "I was wondering who was boiling medicine" and Chai Gau said "Oh 4th Madam, I just accidentally fell, no big trouble" as he smiled and Bo Kei asked "Are you sure?" and he said "Oh yes, sure!" and Bo Kei said "About that transportation by sea plan.." and Chai Gau immediately said "No no 4th Madam, I swear I will not act rashly. I am not going to plan or execute it! I told them to forget about it! I will not also think about it!" but Bo Kei said quietly "Chai Gau, you can surely think about it. The time is not ripe yet but do think about that plan" and Chai Gau looked at her, getting her meaning.

Bo Kei, very smart but how to execute? Pang Hang like some gangsters! No worries, solution is in this episode itself and it is brilliant.

Meanwhile Cheung Kiu told everyone he wants to go and get Fong to come back and asked Bo Kei to go like some honeymoon and also Ah Man to assist. Kiu wasn't happy since she wasn't asked and so she left the dinner table and Cheung Kiu said "Let her be!". Bit Ching later begged to go along but Cheung Kiu said "Chai Gau is still green! You must stay to take care of the business with him" and however he pleaded also he couldn't get Cheung Kiu to agree. Cheung Kiu said "What a fillial son, couldn't even wait to reunite with his mother" and Bo Kei smiled and said "Not really that, but rather he couldn't bear to be separated from one person" and Bo Kei took him to see Ah Man scolding Bit Ching for not begging hard enough and Cheung Kiu whispered "How you knew?" and Bo Kei said "I saw them in the market, Bit Ching was holding a chicken in one hand and some vegetables in the other and Ah Man was eating sweets and she was eating one and then feeding Bit Ching one" and Cheung Kiu cleared his throat and Ah Man quickly left and he said "Ching, your 4th mother has decided to stay back so you can follow me. Thank you 4th mother for this opportunity!" and Bit Ching looked at Bo kei sheepishly.

Pause here.

When did they started? And why is Ah Man such a bossy girlfriend? What is more important? Going travelling or the business? I like her less now. I hate how henpeck Bit Ching already is.

Meanwhile everytime Bit Man passes Cheung Kiu, Cheung Kiu ignored him. Yeah!

At dinner suddenly the Lord Prince arrived and they all went to greet him. Lord prince said he was retiring to the same town and was gonna hold a meeting with the rice merchants and even asked the managers to be there and Cheung Kiu agreed.

What follows next is of course pure brilliance and rather convenient but hey, life can sometimes be so convenient! It is about taking opportunities!

It was meeting time, even Pang Hang was there and the Lord Prince said "I heard about the locusts disaster here and I was cracking my head trying to figure out how much funding and men and supplies to send here to aid the people but credit to you all for solving the problem without using a single penny of the empire! I congratulate you for that! However I notice as I walked along that the disaster may be averted but the price of the rice is at $15 per pound (just an estimation, didn't hear the actualy weight)! That is too expensive! How come the rice is so expensive? How can we solve this problem? How can we cut the cost and bring the price down? Any suggestion anyone?" and everyone looked reluctant to speak and Bo Kei signalled to Chai Gau and Chai Gau stood up and said "My Lord, I am Chai Gau, the 3rd Manager of Hing Fung Nin. I have a humble suggestion" and the prince eager to hear said "Proceed" and Chai Gau said "My Lord, the price of the rice may be high, but we actually profit very little" and prince asked "How can that be?" and Chai Gau said "It may be $15, but we only profit $5. $10 is used to pay the transportation by sea" and Pang Hang looked angry and the prince was angry and shouted "Ridiculous! How can the fee be so high?" and Bo Kei I think was the one who said "That is because the transportation by sea is monopolised by one agent" and Chai Gau or Bo Kei said "The solution is to appoint another agent to break the monopoly" and the prince said "That is a great idea!" but Chai Gau said "However we can't do that My Lord" and he asked "WHY? Who is that agent?" and Chai Gau said "Truth is we can't even plan or implement it, we can't talk about it or even THINK about it, because the consequence is death!" and the prince was very angry as Bo Kei hit the nail by saying "The monopoly concerns thousands of rice bowls my lord, therefore we are unable to break that" as Bo kei looked at Pang Hang and the prince looked over and knew who she was referring to. He then said loudly "Then that is simple. (calling on his assistant) pronounce an edict that whoever dares monopolises the transportation by sea and cause a revolt, the empire will send in 30000 (or was it 3000? Anyway large number) of guards to squash the rioters and you have my order to kill them all!" and Pang Hang swallowed his saliva hard as he heard that (VERY VERY FUNNY SCENE!!) and Chai Gau clapped and said "Brilliant solution My lord! Brilliant!" and everybody clapped and smiled happily.

Problem solved.

Chai Gau told Bo Kei he was gonna go with his brothers for a few days and discuss about the new business and Bo Kei allowed him and he loudly said "4th Madam, how many more decades does one have? Seize the day 4th Madam, seize the day!!" as he happily laughed with Bo Kei laughing as well happy that one problem is solved.

Cheung Kiu then went to take Fong home and at night before they leave he said to her "Fong, my health may look like it is improving but I may die anytime. You must learn to be courageous and to speak up, protect yourself and Bit Ching. I worry for Bit Ching if I were to leave him the business. What if I am no longer here? Don't be bullied into a corner, fight back" which was interesting to hear from Cheung Kiu. Fong said "Husband, you know I hate fights. I am happy here. I am happy with nothing, don't worry about me"

They went home and again Bit Man greeted Cheung Kiu who ignored him. Dinner with everybody BUT Bit Man and Fung Yee faked niceness and greeted Fong and Kiu reluctantly did so. Cheung Kiu said "You know Kiu, Fong has such a short memory, she said she can't even remember why she left in the first place. I hope with fresh memories all the past unhappiness is wiped away and let us all start again, all 4 sisters living in harmony under one roof. Shall we be so, Kiu?" but Kiu said "I can't forget. I don't think I have a place in this household. I am leaving with Mo". Not sure what happens next, let's just say Cheung Kiu was fed up with her attitude.

Bo kei met with Pang Kiu to give a gift of ink stone to Mo and Kiu accepted on Mo's behalf. Then Bo Kei said "Sister, please don't leave. Husband may leave anytime soon, I think we all 4 wives should stay by his side" and Kiu sadly said "Husband needs only one wife by his side and that is you. I am a nobody" and Bo kei said "How can you say that? Husband cares about you" but Kiu said "When you first entered into this family I hated you. You had husband all by yourself and I had nothing. And then you had to save Mo, and I am forever indebted to you. I am a straightforward honest person, I say whatever I feel should be said without restraint. You're a brave person, doing what's right without caring much of the consequences. In another circumstances we would have been great friends and sisters but unfortunately we are married to the same man so that makes our friendship impossible" and Bo Kei pleaded "But promise me 4th sister, once Mo has taken his exam, you must come home to us. You are still apart of this family" but Kiu sadly said "I am no longer sure I am anymore" and Bo Kei looked on frustrated that the family is about to break apart.

Bo Kei, it has already broken apart!

Almost last scene, Bit Man waited for some men by the pier, sinister looking men and threw a water bottle into the river. They picked it up and inside was an instruction; "Meet me at the restaurant. I will pat one man on the shoulder 3 times. That man will be your target".

Last scene, Chai Gau and his brothers having a meet up at the group's mansion, everybody thanked Chai Gau for teaching them how to expand the business and gave him a $2000 ang pow as well as promising him a share in the profit as thanks. Chai Gau was a very very happy man.

Next episode, Chai Gau was kidnapped by 3 men who stabbed him and left him for dead as Bo Kei sensed something wasn't right and was in a state of panic!

Insane!! How will Chai Gau survive this?!

I don't know why but I really pity Hoi Tong. And I have never quite commented about Nancy Wu's performance and so I think I will talk a bit about that. I never liked her in the past as I find all her performances were varying degrees of arrogance as she can death stare someone to death. But in Rosy Business, she plays a flirtatious and foolish girl who became desperate. I find her scenes with Wayne Lai very funny and sometimes infuriating and today rather funny and sad at the same time. I think they share this wonderful chemistry and I love seeing how he reacted to her and how she reacted to him. I am happy to see her giving more in her performance, rather than giving someone that bored stare or arrogant stare, there is more than that to her. I find her performance improved a lot and whilst she has some way to do, I think I am warming to her in this series. Somehow I just pity Hoi Tong since she is really not malicious, just incredibly foolish and stupid. But you blame all that to youth and inexperience. By the way she suffers from overmakeup all the time.

As for Pang Kiu, she really has nothing to do. I understand her pain and her dilemma but enough with the "I am a ghost repelling talisman" or "Who am I in this household" nonsense. She doesn't appreciate her family and I was hoping she would help Bo Kei but in the end I guess it is more realistic that she hates Bo Kei and yet can't help but feel indebted to her. She doesn't like Bo Kei, that's for sure. Poor Kiki Sheung, this character is really one mindset from episode 1.

Elliot Yue did well but you know compared to Kok Fung, Kok Fung kicks ass in the scenes where he was utterly disappointed with his prodigal son and how he ignored him. But Elliot Yue did looked older.. when will Cheung Kiu die I wonder? He is like having this amazing lifespan like Chai Gau's super amazing adopted grandmother whom I have termed Kawaii!! I hope I get to see her again. Awful actress BUT super kawaii nonetheless. I am a fan!!

I also like the relationship between Chai Gau and Bo Kei, now more like big sister and little brother, at times mother and son but never lovers, never mistake that. How Chai Gau pestered her and how Bo Kei feel concern for him, very heart warming and funny at the same time. What a team and great chemistry between Wayne Lai and Sheren Teng who is giving possibly her best performance in her career (nope! War & Beauty ain't her best). But to see them as lovers is difficult...

Bit Ching and Ah Man's love affair is expected but I hate how bossy Ah Man is and how henpeck Bit Ching is. I know love, sarang, ai, cinta, ngoi, whatever. But I like to see a manlier Bit Ching. And Ron Ng and the actress shares zero chemistry. Whatever playfulness on her side doesn't seem to bounce out well with Ron Ng. Ron Ng has so far gone through so many crisis and episodes with one singular expression. And terrible body posture!

I haven't checked his name yet and I can't remember his name but the actor who plays Pang Hang deserves applause and kudos for excellence! I hate his Pang Hang and yet can't help but laugh whenever I see him. If he is a villain, he is the comic villain.

Pierre Ngo, wonderful as the useless son but can't Bit Man be redeemed? Is he that hopeless?

Susan Tse, I am beginning to doubt her acting prowess. She belongs to old school or rather very old school like the 50s sort of acting. Not bad at that time but kinda OTT for today's standard. Moreover I think Fung Yee's character has stopped development and is now stuck in one mode that is scheming mode and even when scheming can't do it right. Interesting Cheung Kiu understood her position though.

A shoutout for Kok Fung who was excellent as the matriach in Safe Guards and is also excellent in here as the Lord Prince! Love him! and Love that scene!

Everybody else is a-ok.

SAFEGUARD SAMENESS

Same same same, only at different times but same same same. My sis said Rosy Business is better but I said Safe Guards is more coherent, logically consistent and performances way better because each character has a role to play. Rosy Business already has 2 characters with nothing to do and is dominated by 2 characters. Safe Guards is fairer to the characters and the dialogue more hard hitting and more realistic but Rosy Business at this point is of course bigger dilemmas, bigger crisis and bigger problems but the solution at the end of the day is similar to Safe Guards. And so .. CHEUNG KIU!! WRITE A WILL!!!

Do watch Safe Guards. A classic in my opinion.

Favourite line ...

"Truth is we can't even plan or implement it, we can't talk about it or even THINK about it, because the consequence is death!"

- Chai Gau to Lord Prince

EPISODE 14

2010-06-02T23:55:00.002+08:00

This shall be known as The Downfall Of Bit Man (Again). If he survives this, I tell you he is the luckiest bastard. And he will survive this because it's only half way through the series and Bit Man and his mom are the only 2 villains of this series so Bit Man is essential even if it is unfair. Make Ah Mo the villain! And let it be known, I totally agree with what Chai Gau did.

Recap...

Where was it? Ah yes...

Bit Ching wrote letters to his mother and he narrated that "I am happy father is awake but I notice ever since he has awaken from his illness, he has become more ignorant. He has grown closer to brother and it seems he is now blinded to brother's faults" as we are shown Cheung Kiu laughing with an ever attentive Bit Man and "The priest said father may be ok for now but if he suffers from another stroke, he will die". His mother wrote back "Bit Ching, I am happy to hear your father's good health. Promise me, for your father's sake, never tell him how I was thrown out of the Cheung household. He must never know. I am happy he has grown ignorant. Your father has worked hard for so many years, now is his time to relax and take it easy. Let the past be. Isn't there a saying which says it is a blessing to be ignorant sometimes (nan de hu tu)?" and so Bit Ching agreed. Anyway Bit Ching narrated further in his letters to his mom "The business has suffered greatly due to the locusts crisis. 4th mother had to spend a lot of money to buy rice from other towns and our treasury is almost empty. Father heard how the rumours spread about Hing Fung Nin having financial crisis and has decided to hold a birthday banquet for himself earlier than expected, he instructed the banquet must be as big and as grand as possible to show to the public Hing Fung Nin is financially sound. Many big and important officials will be attending. Mother, father has asked me to ask you to attend but I told him a lie; that your returning to your village to pay respect for your father clashes with his luck when celebrating his birthday" and Ah Man was very angry he wrote that and refused to post the letter as she said "How can you be such a coward? You knew the truth and yet you let Eldest master take all the credit for what you and 4th Madam did and now you don't even dare to invite your mother to master's banquet?" and Bit Ching said "Who are you to question my instruction? Just send the letter" and the girl angrily said "Fine! I will send the letter! You're truly a coward!" and left.

Ah Man was alone with Cheung Kiu who suddenly asked her "Ah Man, I wonder why your mother and 3rd Madam suddenly left? Did they really return to pay respect to their elders? I know 3rd Madam's personality. She will take care of me when I am sick, so she wouldn't just leave. Tell me Ah Man, tell me what you know" and Ah Man said "Master it is not for me to tell. Perhaps you should ask 4th Madam and 2nd young master" and Cheung Kiu said "I did and they told me nothing. Don't worry Ah Man, tell me, I have been through far worse, I can handle this" and Ah Man poured out her frustration "Master! Whatever you heard about Eldest master and the business, they're not true! He took credit for what should be 4th Madam and 2nd Young Master's efforts!" and Cheung Kiu looked a bit crestfallen and said "Is that so?" and Bit Ching and Bo Kei walked in and Bit Ching angrily said "Ah Man, what are you saying? Father don't listen to her. She is being dumb!" and Ah Man bit her lips as Bo Kei said "There is not a singular person to be credited for the efforts made as a team. Everybody played his or her part" and so Ah Man left upset whilst Cheung Kiu said "Don't blame her. I asked her a question, she was merely answering me" as Bo Kei smiled at him assuringly.

Pause here.

You know the problem of this household? Cheung Kiu not being told anything. He will find out since servants do talk!

Anyway Man was so upset she packed her bags and when confronted by an apologetic Bit Ching she said "Didn't you hear me? I QUIT! I fire you! And since I have worked 10 days of this month, consider it free work! You don't need to pay me! I am leaving!" but Bit Ching stopped her and said "I am sorry for scolding you! But I don't want to upset father" and Ah Man scolded "But you're letting eldest young master take advantage of you!" but Bit Ching said "Ah Man, I am not being a coward here. In the past I would have told father everything but the person I am now, I have learned so much from 4th mother when she was teaching me the business and I have matured. Father can't take another stress or bad news, I don't want him to die. Which was why I lied. and Ah Man understood what he meant and said "I am sorry young master, I promise I won't tell" and so the problem was settled.

Lucky Bit Man, so many protecting him!

Chai Gau tailed Bit Man and kept sending those anonymous letter, first about how Bit Man and Hoi Tong picked pears and fed each other to how they cavort in open air or something like that. Each time Pang Hang just threw the letters away. Chai Gau knew somehow Pang Hang will follow up on the allegations.

Day of banquet was coming and Bit Man was undecided which expensive gift to give Cheung Kiu when Fung yee said "No need, I have prepared the gift for you that your father will surely love! It took me almost 2 months to get this gift but it was worth all my effort" and Fung Yee showed him a simple quilt which Bit Man was reluctant to give. But on the banquet day, Cheung Kiu loved the quilt as it was made from fabric which contains greetings and wishes from the villagers who Cheung Kiu fed decades before during the last famine. Even some family came to greet Cheung Kiu and Fung Yee credited Bit Man for the effort which of course Bit Man accepted greedily and Cheung Kiu proclaimed "This is the best gift ever! You've done well Bit Man", but of course 3 people just stared at Bit Man, and they were Bo Kei, Bit Ching and a sneering Chai Gau.

By the way Chai Gau's costume got an upgrade!

Next day Chai Gau asked letter writer to write another lesser, a steamier and more taunting one.

That night Bit Man and Hoi Tong were naked in bed when Pang Hang rushed in, asked his men to beat the crap out of them, covered them in blankets (face covered but naked in it) and openly carried them back to somewhere with everyone asking who is it now that offended Master Pang whilst they heard a woman begging to be released and a man's voice begging for mercy. Chai Gau stood by the side and laughed his heart out.

Back at the warehouse everyone was wondering where the heck is Bit Man. Fung Yee meanwhile went to visit grandma at the temple. Guess why? Reveal later.

Bo Kei saw Chai Gau was especially very happy and even invited everyone for a drink to be paid by him after work. Bo Kei did asked him "What is the happy ocassion Chai Gau? You seem to be smiling a lot today" and that is the day after the Hoi Tong-Bit Man incident. Chai Gau said "Well, I heard Pang Hang captured an adulterer on bed with his mistress Hoi Tong! I saw them being paraded on the streets although I couldn't see the adulterer's face" and Bo Kei just smiled and continued to work. It is none of her business.

Cheung Kiu dropped by to discuss business, Uncle Cheung Fatt was there, Chai Gau was there, some workers were there when 2 of Pang Hang's men came to see Cheung Kiu. They were whispering something which made Cheung Kiu slammed the table and Bo Kei looking worried although Chai Gau knew what was happening even if he couldn't hear it as he was standing in another corner. Bo Kei and Cheung Kiu walked out with the 2 men when Bo Kei stole a glance at Chai Gau and saw him smiling happily and she knew he knew and he saw her and stopped smiling and he knew she knew he knew.

Ok, so they knew they knew he knew that she knew that he knew. You know?

The 2 adulterers were still wrapped in blanket, naked presumably, looking dirty and bruised and standing upright and very tired, assuming they stood there whole night. Pang Hang was there looking at them when Bo kei came and Pang Hang snarled "Where is my good brother in law? I sent for him! I wanted him to see what his good son has been up to!" and Bo Kei tiredly said "You know his health is not good. He has sent me, you can speak to me instead, I am given full authority to act on his behalf" and Pang Hang snarled "You know these 2 were caught in bed together!" and Bit Man cried "4th mother, save me! Save me!" and Pang Hang shouted "So when did you 2 started? WHEN?!" and Bit Man said only recently and just this once to which Pang Hang shouted "I received no less tan 4 anonymous letters, each detailing when and where you both had your rendesvous precisely! Don't lie to me! How long?" and Bit Man reluctantly said "6 months, after a party". Bo Kei said "Cut the long story short. What do you want?" and Pang Hang said "You have 2 choices. Either I tell Cheung Kiu and parade these 2 on the streets for all my men and the public to see and surely my good brother in law's face will be humiliated by this useless son of his OR.. you can pay me $50,000 to shut me up! Give me that money and I will not speak a word about this. You decide" and Bit Man cried "4th mother, the 2nd choice! Please save me! Father must not know! He will have anothe stroke and die! Save me!" and so Bo Kei ran back to the shop and told everyone to gather money, ask from creditors, etc. Chai Gau saw how frantic she was and asked guiltily "4th madam, what did Pang Hang want?" and Bo kei stared at him and said "How did you know it was Pang Hang? Did you write the 4 letters?" and Chai Gau refused to answer as Bo Kei asked again and Chai Gau shouted "YES I DID!" and Bo Kei was so angry she just refused to look at him as she tried to gather the money as Chai Gau followed her and said emotionally "4th Madam, he deserves this! No point in saving his ass! He can't be saved! He is beyond help this useless son! Remember how I was almost burnt alive and accused of being a rapist? He was the one who framed me! He did the cat meow and opened the side door! He deserves this 4th Madam!" and Bo Kei stopped, looked squarely in his eyes and scolded "Chai Gau, you know we have no money left. None! Pang Hang wants $50,000. And Cheung Kiu's health is not good. I can't let him have another shock! How could you Chai Gau? How could you be so rash?" and Chai Gau felt rather guilty and knew he had caused another hardship for Bo Kei.

Meanwhile Uncle Cheung Fatt heard everything, stared at Chai Gau and rushed to see Fung Yee at the temple.

Fung Yee was at the temple, on her knees begging grandma "Mother, please don't tell Husband what Bit Man did in the keys incident. It was my fault. Bit Man is still young, he listens to my advice and I have taught him wrongly. I swear I will lead him on the right path, please don't tell husband" and grandma said "Ah Kiu came by a few days ago and I didn't tell him anything. Bit Man is after all my grandson and I will not jeapordise his future. You must however teach him and teach him good values. Guide him well. I will tell Fong when she comes back not to tell, I will also tell Bo Kei the same thing" and Fung Yee practically skipped out of the temple, that was how happy she was clearly no intention to ever guide Bit Man in the right path. Cheung Fatt ran to her and told her what happened. Fung yee said "What? That woman refused to pay?" And again Bo Kei got the blame. Anyway she refused to believe and said "My son would never seduce that Hoi Tong! Never!" which shows how much she knows her son. Uncle Cheung Fatt said "I asked Pang Hang's men and the confirmed young master was caught in bed with Pang Hang's mistress!" and the look of shock on Fung yee's face was priceless.

Bo Kei could only pay $25000 to Pang Hang who said nothing less than $50000 eventhough Bo Kei said "I can take you to our accounts, you can see for yourself we have nothing! Come on, you can't let 2nd sister to become a widow, would you? For her sake, please just accept this!" and Pang Hang roared "For her sake? What about for my sake? When I asked you not to lower down my fee, what did you say to me and my men? No! Nothing less than $50,000 or be ready for the public parade!" and the 2 still begging for help and Bo Kei went to gather more money. Chai Gau saw her on the streets and said "4th Madam, I am sorry! I truly am! I have acted impulsively. Please tell me how much you need? I can ask my brothers to waive their transportation fee for a few months or borrow a few thousands from them. 4th Madam, please answer me!" but Bo Kei ignored him and went her way.

Pause here.

I do think Chai Gau wasn't wrong and Bo kei should be fair to him but I understand's Bo Kei's anger.

Full $50000 given to Pang Hang who laughed and said to Bit Man "Ok, I will forgive you for this indiscretion! You're still my good nephew! As for you slut... you will from now onwards be my slave in my house, washing my feet every night!" and Hoi Tong said feebly "Thank you Master Hang". Bo Kei just waited outside as they dressed and Hoi Tong looking ashamed rushed out and left whilst Bit Man rushed out, held Bo Kei and said "4th mother, promise me you won't tell father! Promise me! He is so old, he just recovered, he can't bear another shock"

Let me just say it clearly; he said these to protect himself, not out of concern for his father.

Bo Kei looked at him sternly and said "I can't do that. You father already knew" and Bit Man accused Bo Kei "You told him? YOU TOLD HIM?! YOU DISGUSTING CRUEL BITCH! YOU WANT HIM TO DIE?!" and Bo Kei angrily said "I didn't tell him. Pang Hang sent him men directly to him" and BiT man now on damage control said "4th Mother, why not we now co-ordinate our stories, making sure ours are the same? Just say... just say she seduced me! Or we can do what you did for Chai Gau! Why not 4th Mother?" and Bo Kei said "If you want to be saved, you must do as I say. Go back, kneel down before your father and let me do the talking" and Bit Man recoiled from that idea and said "You want me to die don't you? You want father to die? You want to do me in!" and he refused to do as she says and ran and said "I will tell father myself!" as Bo Kei shouted "Bit Man! You just need to apologise! Bit Man!" as she ran after him.

Fung Yee on the way back and Cheung Fatt following her and said "Madam, what should we do now? Master values above all else his reputation and if he knows what Young Master did, master will surely kick young master out. Young master will surely be ruined forever!" and Fung Yee closed her eyes, thinking of a plan to save this situation.

Didn't I say Bit Man will dig his own grave? No worries because he will dig deeper in the next scene...

At home, Cheung Kiu's hand was shaking as he took his medicine and he looked pale. Bit Ching came in and said "Father I have heard about what eldest brother was accused of. But I have checked and it is not true. There was a misunderstanding and I think 4th mother will be in better position to explain when she comes back. Don't worry about brother, it isn't true, what you heard" and Cheung Kiu feebly said "Really?" and then Chai Gau came in and said "Master, I have heard a little about eldest young master's predicament. Master let me assure you it must be a mistake. This is not the first time that Hoi Tong has caused problems. Remember my problem? I was almost burnt to death after her accusation. That Hoi Tong is mentally ill! She loves accusing people, I am the prime example. Moreover why would eldest young master want to seduce a mentally ill woman? It's not true master" and Cheung Kiu said "Is that so? If that is true I am glad to hear that and I hope it is true" and both Chai Gau and Bit Ching looked at each other, hoping what they said now will appease Cheung Kiu's worries.

Bit Man reached home, looking dirty and cried FATHERRRRR when Bit Ching stopped him and said "Look I already told father it was a mistake" but Bit Man refused to listen and pushed Bit Ching aside who was still trying to hold Bit Man as Bo Kei rushed home and cried "Bit Man, listen! Bit Man!".

Pang Kiu and Bit Mo were all there when Cheung Kiu walked out, held by Chai Gau and Bit Man rushed to Cheung Kiu and urgently said "Father! You must help plead my innocence! I was drunk last night and someone knocked me out cold. When I opened my eyes, I saw uncle Pang Hang and he stripped me naked and put me in bed with his mistress Hoi Tong accusing me of having an affair with her! He then demanded $50,000 ransom money!" and he stood accusing Pang Kiu that her brother was cruel, greedy, evil and heartless and Pang Kiu said "That's can't be true! Brother is not that sort a person!" which for once Pang Kiu is right and Bit Man continued "I told 4th mother not to pay the ransom money because my innocence will forever be tainted but she refused and she paid the money anyway!" and Bo Kei angrily said "Bit Man, that is enough!" and even Chai Gau said "Young master, let's not say anything more" and Bit Man angrily said "Who are you to speak?!" and Chai Gau sneered at him and shut up whilst Bit Man continued "I don't know what is her intention. She seemed more interested in proving Chai Gau's innocence than mine! She seems more interested in Chai Gau than me father! I don't know what's her motive! This woman, she refused to prove my innocence and in fact made me look guilty in the eyes of everyone!" and Bo Kei said "Don't you overstep your boundaries Bit Man!" but he said louder and louder as he finally said "She! This woman! Why is she so concerned about Chai Gau? I tell you father, she is probably having an illicit affair with Chai Gau!!"

Oops, wrong move!

Bo Kei's eyes was wide with shock at the accusation and Fung Yee just arrived when she heard Cheung Kiu calmly said "That is enough. Bit Man, you are now banished from home! Leave now!" and everyone was shocked and Fung Yee just quietly left to somewhere as Bit Man cried "Why father? How can you not trust me? I am not satisfied!" as Cheung Kiu said "Do you really think I am in ignorant old fool? It isn't that I have become foolish after I woke up but I chose to believe you have changed when you didn't, you have become worse! I asked around and I knew you didn't put any effort into that blanket, and you tried to take the keys away from Bo Kei and you falsely accused Auntie Hing for stealing, causing her to be beaten severely for a crime she didn't do! " and Bit Man shouted "It wasn't me alone! Mother and 2nd mother did too! 2nd Mother said her jewelry were stolen and I just reported on that! Why I alone am being punished? Why?!" and Pang Kiu was lost for words since she did accused Auntie Hing whilst Cheung Kiu said "I have heard enough. (he called out 2 servants and said) escort this man out of my house. I will gather the elders and inform them of my decision later. Meanwhile your name will be struck off from the family registry. Get out of my house!" and Bit Man wanted to say something when he howled in pain and it was Fung Yee who hit him with a huge and I mean HUGE stick. Bit Man fell in pain whilst Cheung Kiu refused to look as Fung Yee said "Husband, it is my fault I have given you this useless son. I will beat him with this stick and I will continue to beat him until you tell me to stop!" and she said "Hold him down, now!" as Bit Man begged to be released and she began to beat him really hard with all her energy (on his buttocks, like those punishment in court) and Cheung Kiu refused to look and said "Do as you wish. He is no longer my son" and he wanted to walk into his room when Bit Man was about to faint and Mo ran and knelt before Cheung Kiu and said "Father, please ask eldest mother to stop! Brother will surely die if she continues! Father!" and even Bit Ching begged Cheung Kiu and Ah Kiu also begged him and he was unmoved whilst Bo Kei too begged him "Husband please tell her so stop! Husband!" and without looking at Bit Man Cheung Kiu curtly said "Stop!" and he walked inside and Fung Yee stopped, huffing from all her effort as Bit Man fainted and Bo Kei looked at Fung Yee who stared at her with hatred in her eyes.

Chai Gau I believe was busy watching the entire show by the sideline.

Next episode, Hoi Tong looked like she was suffering as she cried to Chai Gau to give her funds so that she can go home which he did and next thing Pang Hang again threatened him with bodily harm and mutilation and Chai Gau had only a small knife to fend for himself.

Ohhhhh exciting stuff!! Poor Hoi Tong though.

Bit Man dug his own grave, didn't I said so? He shouldn't have accused Bo Kei of anything. Hasn't he learned his father will always take Bo Kei's side? For all his mother's brilliance, she didn't teach him one good value; that is whatever Bo kei says, follow! Stupid Bit Man.

And why was Fung Yee staring at her anyway? Didn't Bo Kei tried her damnest best to raise that money? Haven't she done enough? What must she do other than running into burning flame to save that idiot? Even then she will be blamed anyway.

I think Chai Gau was impulsive but he was right. Everyone can't expect Cheung Kiu to live in a lie and moreover Cheung Kiu is an adult, he is smart, he will ask around and he will find out eventually. Question now is when he will die? But I know Bit Man will get another break! That lucky bastardo!

SAFE GUARD SAMENESS

Not quite the same but still from the same "intestine".

Story wise, exciting. Dialogue wise, pretty good. Logic wise, I can't understand why Bit Man would be so stupid as to accuse Bo Kei of ill intention. Dumb kid. At least in Safe Guards, Ben Wong's character who is innately cruel but is smart cruel, he lacks what his father calls integrity. Bit Man is just pure stupidity. And I think Kok Fung did better in showing his utter disappointment in his once brilliant and 2nd favourite son, the way he just sat there silently crying as Ben was crying loudly and begging for forgiveness, because the father knew his son has changed or rather has been such a pretentious bastard from the start. That was a brilliant scene. In here, Elliot Yue did not show that disappointment because Kok Fung is a better actor and moreover in Safe Guards, we can clearly see why he was so disappointed in his 2nd son since he started out as a nice guy whilst Bit Man has been rotten from the beginning. But it was a sad scene when he said he had hoped Bit Man was a changed man but in his heart he already knew the answer to his own question; Bit Man is just useless.

Performance wise, Pierre Ngo did very well as that stupid Bit Man. There was desparation, accusing tone, etc. Very explosive scene that last scene. As for everyone else, what more can I say? Very very good.

Ron Ng, same old Ron Ng and I am beginning to think there is not a funny bone in him. His flirtation or so called flirtation scene with Ah Man the actress falls flat for lack of chemistry.

Elliot Yue did well in the last scene despite my comparison with Kok Fung in Safe Guards in light of the entire scene seen together. All fathers should be that way when dealing with stupid sons.

Kiki Sheung, totally and utterly wasted. She is like a ke-le-fe or very special guest star. I mean the actor playing Uncle Cheung Fatt has more to do than she does.

One question though; shouldn't Lau Fong be rushing back to see Cheung Kiu? After all she was so damn concerned about him and yet didn't bother to rush back to see him. I know she is afraid or is tired of all the back stabbing but when will she be back? When he is dead for his funeral? She should come home because that is so unlike her.

And what I learned from this episode? Always tell the old man everything. If not he will find out anyway. Why protect a bastard? Will only hurt the bigger picture.

Anyway favourite line...

"Do you really think I am in ignorant old fool? It isn't that I have become foolish after I woke up but I chose to believe you have changed when you didn't, you have become worse!"

- Cheung Kiu to Bit Man

EPISODE 13

2010-06-01T23:55:00.003+08:00

Most infuriating episode, that I can tell you! Felt like smashing the TV but I love my 42 inches Plasma TV more than hating Bit Man, moreover World Cup coming, so I need my TV more. So I ended up squashing that piece of cheezles in my fingers. Crumbled into dust I tell you!

Anyway, RECAP...

I wished the episode opened with Pang Kiu kneeling on the floor begging for forgiveness but nope, it opened with I think Bit Man feeling rather angry and then seeing Chai Gau when Bit Man just came out of the prostitute place and insulted Chai Gau "LOOK! IT'S THE RAPIST! LOOK!" and Chai Gau's men, now having personality of their own chastised Bit Man by saying "Come on master! That issue has past!" but Bit Man being a jerk continued on and Chai Gau said to his men "It's ok. As long as you know I am innocent, it is ok my brothers" but Bit Man still continued and Chai Gau loudly said "Before talking about someone else, look to yourself first! Coming out from a prostitute house in broad daylight, who is the sex maniac here?!" and Bit Man angrily said "What are you saying you filthy dog!" and was about to hit Chai Gau who surely would hit back when they looked up and saw a swarm of millions of locusts flying in. Chai Gau looked scared as everyone ran to their houses with Bit Man looking like "SHIT! THAT BITCH WAS RIGHT!" look. Chai Gau ran back to the shop and told Bo Kei what he saw and Bo Kei looked scared as well.

Bit Man ran home and screamed "Mother! She was right! Locusts everywhere!" and everyone looked worried and Bit Man screamed to the servants to close the windows as he fought off some of the locusts that flew in.

Outside was like a dead town. Cheung Fatt the dog and some servants were asked by Bo kei to go home and take care of their family whilst she and Chai Gau will stay back and see what they can do.

Pause here.

How can Cheung Fatt not like Bo Kei who was so considerate to him?!

Anyway Pang Kiu was with Cheung Kiu, remembering his entry in the diary and holding his hand tight when Cheung Kiu moved his fingers and opened his eyes! Outside Fung yee said "She was right! We are going to be ruined! Ruined by that woman!" when Pang Kiu ran out and said "Husband is awake! He is awake!"

Fung Yee immediately said to Bit Man "Now is your chance, our chance! Bit Man, I heard the priest is back! You go and find him now, bring him here!" and Bit Man was like "WHAT? At this time? But there are so many locusts out there! Call the servant to go!" but Fung Yee said "No, you go! Your father will think you at least did something. Now go!" and Bit MAn said "At least let me take some cover and fire" but Fung Yee said "No, go like this!" as she pushed him towards the door and the dog said "Yes master, this is the best plan. Go!" and they both opened the door and pushed Bit Man outside and closed the door! Fung Yee brushed off the locusts whilst Bit Man cried "MOTHER! OPENED THE DOOR! OPENED THE DOOR! I CAN'T GO! MOTHERRRR!" but FUng Yee calmly said "Go now!" and so Bit Man had to dodge and cover and run out.

Fung Yee can be quite persistent eh? Unfortunately stupid as hell. Surely the servants if not Chai Gau will tell Cheung Kiu the truth about Bit Man and his so called efforts.

They all went in and look at Cheung Kiu who by now has opened his eyes and is very weak as he asked where is everyone else when Bit Man came back crying "I have the doctor here! I have the doctor here!" and the doctor examined Cheung Kiu and happily said "He will be fine!" and Bit Man ran to Cheung Kiu, held his hand and said "Father I am so glad you're alright!" and Fung Yee said "Bit Man, how could you not tell me you went to find the doctor? You made me so worried" but Bit Man humbly (pretentiously so) said "I couldn't care more about my safety mother. It was father that I was worried about. Father I am so glad you're awake now" as Cheung Kiu held BIt Man's hands tightly and looked very grateful to have sucha fine son. Fung Yee smiled whilst Pang Kiu looked at them both, realising for the first time how fake these 2 people are.

And still no one told Bo Kei.

After all that Fung Yee said to Uncle Cheung Fatt, "You can go and tell that 4th Madam"

Pause here.

She actually said "You can go and tell that Ah-Sei" which Ah Sei can be Number 4 or that servant (in modern terms) but in this situation Fung Yee called her number 4, which is not a term of affection but contempt.

And then she said "No, wait until the locusts are gone" and the dog said ok.

Meanwhile Bo Kei is at the shop and asked the old employee "The last time, how long did this last?" and the old servant said "A day or so and all the fields destroyed. This looks worse Madam, I am afraid it will be much longer" and Bo Kei looked very worried as she said "When this disaster is over, our nightmare will begin" but Chai Gau said "4th Madam, you must be hungry. Let me cook some noodle for us to eat" and Bo Kei nodded gratefully.

At home Bit Man played the dutiful son, fed Cheung Kiu, said stories, smiled, etc and Cheung Kiu now could stand up and sit down and eat dinner which makes me wonder, how long has it been? 2 days at least? Anyway Cheung Kiu was very impressed with Bit Man and said "Luckily during these time there's Bo Kei and you" and Bit Man said "I am doing my duty father". Fung Yee smiled widely whilst Pang Kiu was very very very quiet.

Back to Bo Kei, there was a knock and it was Bit Ching and Ah Man who came back. Bit Ching said there was devastation everywhere and Bo Kei looked even more worried than before. But she said "At least all of you are back. That gives me much comfort"

And then suddenly the locusts were gone or dropped dead. The town opened doors again and swept the locusts away. Bo Kei was on the streets, still worried because she knew disaster was just starting when the dog came and said "Master is awake" and Bo Kei ran home.

Back home she ran into the arms of Cheung Kiu who held on to her, clearly she is his favourite! Meanwhile Bit Ching walked in too and Cheung Kiu said "Bit Man, you're back too? Is your mother still at the village? How's your visit to grandfather's gravesite? Does it need sprucing up? You can't be stingy on this. If your mother needs money for that, tell me".

Bit Ching looked surprised and said "Father who told you mother and I went back for that? Father, mother and I was..." and Bo Kei stopped him in time and said "It doesn't matter Bit Ching as long as you're home". Cheung Kiu didn't see that as Bit Ching glared at Bit Man and he said "Don't tell mother I am awake. I don't want her to walk here when she is suffering from (I think) arthritis. Bo Kei, when I am better you go with me to visit her" and Bo Kei nodded but Bit Ching said "When did grandma have such an illness" but cheung Kiu didn't hear him. Cheung Kiu also said "Bo Kei, thank you for taking care of the business together with Bit Man during these times" and Bo Kei just smiled as Bit Man said "Father I was just helping 4th mother which is my duty"

The first reason why I wanted to smash the TV! Taking credit for what he didn't do!!

I have a feeling Fung yee told this lie, after all grandma knew about the whole Key Incident. Mo can tell right? He was there! Anyway Pang Kiu looked at Bit Man and Fung Yee, now knowing she is faced with 2 lying cheating scums but remained very very quiet, uncharacteristically so.

My sis said Pang Kiu will tell Cheung Kiu the truth but I suspect Bit Man will do enough to dig his own grave later on.

Anyway continue...

Lunch or dinner I think, and Cheung Kiu told Bo Kei he was very happy Bit Man is doing his part for the family and they can BOTH run the business and said "I myself hesitated when faced with the same situation but Bo Kei and Bit Man were both wise enough to save at least 20% of the harvest". Of course Fung Yee and BIt Man smiled happily and Bo Kei just smiled, not wanting to cause Cheung Kiu any grief.

Meanwhile the town is in chaos. Everybody buying rice and they were all expensive and Bit Man rushed back and said urgently to Bo kei "There is a rush out there for rice! What can we do? Why not raise the prices like the last time so as to hold on to the stock we have?" and Bo Kei ignored him and said to Chai Gau and his men "Take out the remaining rice in our stock to sell" and Bit Man stopped them and shouted "What is your plan 4th mother?" bit Bo Kei refused to answer him and again Chai Gau was pushed aside as Bit Man repeatedly asked the same questions and stopping them and Bit Man finally said "You better tell me what's your plan!!". In his eagerness to take credit or share it with Bo Kei, he finally took away his pretentious mask and Bo Kei looked at him and said "I don't have a plan, none" and Bit Man said "Impossible! You better tell me now!" but Bo Kei ignored him. So Bit Man stopped them again, but this time Chai Gau and his men pushed Bit Man away and Bit Man shouted "I will tell dad what you're doing! You're killing Hing Fung Nin!!" and Bo kei angrily said "Fine!" and she took out the keys and slammed it onto the table and said "Here! You takeover! These are the keys! It is your responsibility now. You settle the problem now! Can you settle the problem?" and Bit Man hesitated and said if in modern times will be equivalent to "Bitch" and he ran out.

Yeap, good move Bo Kei!

And back home Fung Yee scolded Bit Man "Why are you so impulsive? Do you think dragging your father into this will help? Haven't I taught you never to be so impulsive?" and Bit man said "Mother you should have seen Chai Gau and the men. They didn't even respect me!" and Fung Yee said "You go back to the shop now. Whatever they do, you assist. At least this will minimise the damage, as if you've done something if she succeeds. If she fails, at least you contributed minimally to that problem" and the dog said "Madam, in all my experience I have never seen any rice crisis after such a disaster could be solved, not without some stock. I too am very eager to see how she solves this crisis" as he smiled that stupid smile.

Pause here.

Is he in love with Fung Yee? Is Bit man his bastard child? Why is he so damn loyal to these 2??

Bit Man walked into the streets and saw one of the merchant being chased by a group of villagers and he realised the villagers were beating those they terms as "selfish greedy merchant" for rising the price and chased after him. Bit man ran back to the shop and again made a fuss but Bo Kei just ignored him and someone walked in and said the riot for the rice is beginning and Bo Kei walked out to see everyone rushing for rice and the shop was empty.

Bit Man like a hero he is not walked to the people and said "Look, we Hing Fung Nin is the biggest merchant here. Impossible we do not have rice! So be rest assured!" but no one listened and everyone pushed forward when Bo Kei said "Please, listen" and Bit Man shouted "Listen to 4th Madam, she has something to say". Chai Gau sneered at Bo kei.

Bo Kei said "We have enough stock, we have warehouses filled with rice. You don't believe me? Follow me"

and even Bit man was curious and so followed her and they all saw I think 10 or 15 warehouses erected and Bit Ching counting sacks of rice in from and Bo Kei asked "Bit Ching, why didn't you put these into the warehouse?" and Bit Ching said "I can't 4th Mother. They're all full" and everyone was surprised as Bo Kei said "Did you hear that? Don't believe me? Check them out yourself!" and some villagers ran to the warehouse and there was a ladder (which they had to climb up to see the rice from the rooftop) and Bit Man held to the ladder and smiled and said "Here, here, climb carefully" and they did, opened the roof and saw white rice filled to the brim! The villager were very happy and Bit Man said "See we have rice!' and Bo Kei said "Listen. You all rushing for rice will only benefit the greedy merchants, right? But you all doing that are also like greedy merchants, raising the prices. Be calm. We have rice, enough to feed all of you so don't worry, stop rushing to buy the supplies and just stay calm, help us all and help yourselves" and everyone listened to Bo Kei and went home.

At home Bit Man told Cheung Kiu "Father this is the first time I've seen such a mob! I was so scared! Father now I understand the importance of our business, I have matured" and Cheung Kiu nodded approvingly but was worried and said "Are you sure we have enough rice?" and Bo Kei said "Yes we do and we have more being transported here" and Cheung Kiu said "You're lying to me. It takes 2 weeks to transport some of the rice here, how can you fill these warehouse?" and Bit man said "Father it is true!" and Bit Ching said "Father it is true" but Cheung Kiu refused to believe and so Bo Kei said "Let me take you see the warehouses at nightfall".

They all went, Chai Gau was there too and Cheung Kiu was impressed and Bo Kei said "Let's take a look inside" and they went in and Cheung Kiu smiled "Ahhh the empty warehouse trick!" and indeed empty except for the roof. Remember the wooden planks from last episode? They hold the rice as if filled to the brim and Bit Man felt like an idiot. Then Bo Kei said "I believe our rice supply should be here" and someone came in and said the rice is here and so they went out and checked the quality of the rice.

Chai Gau was pulled aside by No. 2 who said "This guy here was from Pang Hang's group, he has joined us since. He has something to tell you" and he whispered "I was at the banquet with Pang Hang and I know you were framed for molesting his woman. Do you want to know who infomed Pang Hang? That eldest young master over there" and Chai Gau realised who he was and looked at Bit Man who was busy discussing rice with Cheung Kiu and he looked at him, his hand clenched into an angry fist and No. 2 said "I know you don't want to join us as No. 3 anymore, but nonetheless we are still brothers. If you need help, just say so" and Chai GAu calmed down a bit and whispered "Thanks my brother".

And he stared at Bit Ching, eyes full of anger.

I can't remember when was this scene but there was this scene. Cheung Kiu met with the employees who were all very happy for Cheung Kiu. Chai Gau said "Master we are all so happy you're alright! We wish you health always!" and Cheung Kiu laughed and said "Chai Gau, have you changed? You now know how to speak so politely!" and Chai Gau laughed as Cheung Kiu teased "Is it because you know you're to be promoted as 3th Manager?" and Chai Gau was very happy as Bo Kei smiled too.

Pause here. So Chai Gau decided not to leave Hing Fung Nin? I didn't know actually until this scene. I thought he was just there to assist.

Chai Gau followed Bit Man and told one boy to give a letter and said it was from a woman. Bit Man read the letter and smiled. Chai Gau followed him to Hoi Tong's place, climbed up with a ladder (mind you BIG LADDER- no one seems to ask why someone would carry a ladder at night or was it morning?) and saw Bit Man drinking, removing his clothes as Chai Gau remembered his humiliation and how he was droused in kerosene.

Back at home there was a banquet to celebrate the end of crisis. Chai Gau walked out and Bit Man called him "Chai Gau Gor" like best friend and Chai Gau glared at him. Pang Hang came and greeted Cheung Kiu and then saw Chai Gau and said "WHAT IS THIS RAPIST DOING HERE?!" and someone said Chai Gau is now 3rd Manager and Pang Hang sneered and Cheung Kiu said "What is going on? Can someone tell me.." and Chai Gau said "It was a misunderstanding master. I was mistaken for molesting Pang Hang's woman, all a misunderstanding" as I think Bit Man said "It is all settled. No big deal father, purely a misunderstanding, come on uncle, let's all settle down!" and Pang Hang glared at Chai Gau who looked at the floor.

Later Chai Gau went to a letter writer and told him to write a letter. He sent the letter anonymously to I think Hoi Tong's place and amazingly Pang Hang still visited Hoi Tong! He was on his way out for dinner at some official's home when his servant gave him the letter and he read it. The letter basically said "Your good nephew Cheung Bit Man and your mistress Hoi Tong are secret lovers and you're still a stupid idiot not to notice!" and Pang Hang looked at Hoi Tong, crushed the letter when asked what was it and he said "Nothing. Let's go" and Chai Gau looked on, disappointed Pang Hang didn't seem to react much.

Next episode, Pang Hang did react which resulted in Fung Yee beating the crap out of Bit Man as Bo Kei asked Chai Gau if he was the anonymous letter writer and Chai Gau admitted yes. I hope Bo Kei doesn't blame him because I think Chai Gau was right in what he did after what he went through even if Bo Kei didn't want to shock Cheung Kiu into another coma. Anyway Fung Yee is always planning and like I said Bit Man will destroy all her plans!

Not much comments for this episode except for Pierre Ngo who was excellent as Bit Man with his eagerness to take credit. I felt like smashing the TV and I think this was the 3rd time I said this!

Everyone else was ok, with Ron Ng's passive no emotion glaring look best suited for the scene as he glared at Bit Man and mother for lying about why his mother left.

You know what I wanna see? Pang Kiu doing the right thing by taking Bo Kei's side for once.

Favourite line?

"Here! You takeover! These are the keys! It is your responsibility now. You settle the problem now! Can you settle the problem?"

- Bo Kei to Bit Man

EPISODE 12

2010-05-31T23:55:00.001+08:00

I still don't get Fung Yee's masterplan and after this episode I realise Fung Yee is not only stupid, she is blindingly stupid. And what is more terrible than a stupid person? A stupid person who thinks she is smart. And what is even worse than such a person? A stupid person who thinks she is smart AND right. Disaster I tell you. But fear not, Super Bo Kei to the rescue! And assisted by her super assistant, Great Chai Gau!

And so the challenge was on. Fung Yee vs Bo Kei.

AND Chai Gau is still here! I thought he left? Nope, gonna go. But before that Bo Kei felt something terrible is coming. The weather was unusually hot, then there were grasshoppers I think with another species I suppose, like Locust? She was very worried and she came across Cheung Kiu's diaries and in it he wrote about what happened some 16 years ago where the same weather as today happened and they were attacked by millions of locusts, eating all the rice on the paddy fields and leaving the town without any rice for 3 years! Cheung Kiu regretted he didn't take some action back then and Bo Kei now felt she was in the same position.

Chai Gau too noticed something wasn't right. He told Bo Kei what he saw and observed and also on what happened that 16 years ago where the weather was extremely hot and then it began to rain very hard and then came the locusts. Chai Gau told Bo Kei to be very observant and Bo Kei agreed.

Meanwhile Hoi Tong came by to see Chai Gau but Chai Gau shooed her off. He did ask her "If you didn't pretend to meow like a cat and open the side door, who did? I remember you said oh now you came back to me when you thought I was someone else. There was someone else wasn't it? Who was it? Another man?" and Hoi Tong denied all allegations but Chai Gau said "Remember, whoeever did that obviously wanted me dead BUT he also didn't care about you either. If I know who it was I swear I will kill him!" but Hoi Tong insisted she didn't know.

At home, Bit Man came to see Hoi Tong but Hoi Tong confronted him about what happened that night. Bit Man defended himself saying he told everyone she was molested and all and Hoi Tong was still very angry until somehow Bit Man calmed her down and they hugged. Stupid Hoi Tong but she is actually an ok person.

Chai Gau was given a farewell dinner and he reminded his men "Remember, we are all 4th Madam gang! You must all assist her when she needs your help. She has a lot of devils around her, she needs our help with the business!" and the men cheered to that. Bo Kei appeared and all were very happy to see her and Bo Kei explained she found out there was a farewell dinner so she decided to come. Chai Gau said "Thank you for coming 4th Madam" and Bo Kei jokingly said "I don't think I can stand a polite Chai Gau! We may not be employer and employee anymore, but I believe we are friends. Here, take this $100 as a token of my appreciation for your service" but Chai Gau refused and said "4th Madam, I can't accept that. My grandmother taught me 3 things in life;" frankly I forgot the exact 3 things but I think it was one must work hard, one must help friends, and one must share things with friends. Anyway Bo Kei was very touched by Chai Gau's loyalty and frankness and said "Ok, then take this bag of superior white rice to your old grandmother for me" and Chai Gau accepted that and so said goodbye to Bo Kei.

Bo Kei wrote letters to Lau Fong, who by the way left with Bit Ching and the 2 swindler servants, mother is Auntie Hing and daughter is Ah Man. They wrote constantly and in it Bo Kei wrote about life in the family whilst Lau Fong wrote back on how they were warmly welcomed home by the villagers. And Cheung Kiu's fingers seem to moved more often, giving Bo Kei hope.

However Bo Kei was still very very worried and so asked the rice merchants over for a meeting with madam kepo that is Fung Yee and Pang Kiu and Bit Man plus the dog, Uncle Cheung Fatt all there as well. Bo Kei explained the situation and suggested they each stop selling rice and keep some in the warehouse, just in case but the merchants protested, saying that would kill their profit, they were bound by contract and that there wouldn't be locusts as there needs to be rain for an entire month, despite Bo Kei capturing some of the locusts and showing the merchants. So Bo Kei decided not to press the issue.

Bit Man was very angry at his mom for not telling Bo Kei off but his mom said "You're so impulsive! Remember, we must observe first, and then when we know the situation then we attack. But I think we now have a strategy" and Pang Kiu asks what it was and she said "Whatever she says, we disagree. Whatever she disagrees, we agree. Understand? And since your father is waking up, Bit Man, stay with him more, so that when he wakes up he will see you were doing something instead of nothing all these while".

Wow Fung Yee, what a BRILLIANT strategy, that is if Cheung Kiu is an idiot. Cheung Kiu can see you know, he can reverse all decisions. I can't see how not listening to the one smart person in the household will really help Bit Man secure the fortune.

And so they did those little things like hanging prayer lamps and all. Bo Kei just let them do it. She's far too busy anyway.

Chai Gau back at home with his adopted grandmother enjoying a meal. Old grandmother said "Based on what you said you're very lucky to have such a great employer like 4th Madam. You must serve her well" but Chai Gau said "Grandma, I actually have a better offer somewhere else and I am thinking of accepting that offer" and grandma smiled her toothless grin and said "I am just an old uneducated village woman, I really don't know much about the world. You decide what you want to do. When you go back, remember to take this dried "possum" (I really don't know how to translate a Lap Tin Shue which literally translated as Field Rat") to 4th Madam"

and then it began to rain heavily and Chai Gau was worried. Even Bo Kei was worried.

Pause here.

I must say I really like the old grandmother. So kawaii!! And I am also amazed she is still very much alive! I mean I really thought she starved to death and here is the amazing old grandmother, alive and well! How did she survive the famine when she was bedridden with hunger and crippled by old age? How did she find food? I believe if we can answer these questions we would have solved many riddles of life! Amazing super Grandma, ALIVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

Bo Kei re-read what Cheung Kiu wrote and knew she had to make a decision soon.

Meanwhile she wrote letters to Bit Ching, citing her worries. Bit Ching too was worried and felt useless and couldn't even laugh when Man played a trick on him.

Meanwhile Chai Gau was coming back and saw many crickets, grashoppers and I believe locusts flying everywhere.

Bo Kei again called for a meeting with the merchants who now heeded Bo Kei's warning and said "Whatever you decide to do we will follow. You are the acting chairman of our association" and so Bo Kei didn't know what to say and Bit Man came out and stupidly suggested capturing all chickens, release into the fields to eat the locusts. Of course he doesn't understand the term millions of locusts but Bo Kei let him talk as a servant whispered something in her ear. She excused herself, went in and saw Chai Gau. She happily greeted him and Chai Gau gave her the dried meat and Bo Kei happily said "Please thank your grandmother for her gracious gift!". Chai Gau then turned serious and said "4th Madam, as I was coming home, I saw many locusts. Have you decided on what to do?" and Bo Kei said "I too noticed that and I am thinking. Chai Gau, I am thinking about an early harvest, at least we can save 20% of the rice instead of nothing. I believe if Hing Fung Nin being the major rice merchant do this, others will follow. What do you think?"

Nice that she actually asked for his opinion.

Chai Gau seriously said "4th Madam, early harvest does seem to be a good solution. However if you will listen to me 4th Madam, my suggestion is for you to do nothing at all" and Bo Kei was surprised by his suggestion as he continues "Many here wants to see you fail. If you do nothing and the locusts do come and destroy the fields and leave us with nothing, you can protect yourself by saying it was natural occurrence. No one can pin the blame on you. But if you were to harvest only 20%, no matter what, if the locusts don't come, they will surely blame you for the loss of 80% of the harvest. Calculate carefully 4th madam, it doesn't benefit you at all!" and Bo Kei thought about Chai Gau's wisdom who was right by the way and then said she will need to go out now and Chai Gau reminded her "Remember, do nothing at all!"

Once outside Bit Man still busy with his chicken theory and Bo Kei said "I have decided that Hing Fung Nin will start with an early harvest" and the merchants cried "What? That is only 20% of the harvest" but Bo Kei insisted it is better than absolutely nothing and Chai Gau heard what she said and sighed deeply. Obvious right that Bo Kei will make this decision?

Ahhhh Fung Yee slammed her hand down and said "I disagree! We can't lose 80% of the harvest" and the dog said "4th Madam I disagree too" and Bo Kei insisted that if everyone helps it can be done but Uncle Cheung Fatt said "I still disagree and my men will not assist you 4th madam"

Woahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Uncle Cheung Fatt, who is the boss here??

And Fung Yee still disagreed and Bo kei said "Eldest sister, please don't forget who is running the business here" and still dog says he disagrees and Fung Yee said "Don't worry Uncle Cheung Fatt. You are our senior of 2 generations here. No one will dare to fire you! Not when I am still around!" and Bo Kei sighed at their stupidity and insisted and Bit Man did what Bo Kei did to him much earlier in the series "So you will bear the consequences?" and Bo Kei said "YES" and he said "If the locusts don't turn up you will return the keys and leave?" and Bo kei said "YES!!" and so she walked back inside the house.

Chai Gau met with Bo Kei and emotionally said "4th Madam, I always meet people who think of themselves first, very rarely I meet anyone who thinks of others first! 4th Madam, I have decided to delay my departure. My men, myself and I am sure even 2nd young master's men will help you with the harvest if no one will! I Chai Gau admires a person who acts for the benefit of others and I am proudly a 4th Madam gang member!" and Bo Kei was near tears and thanks Chai Gau.

And so the rain continues, the locusts continues to turn up and Bo Kei wrote to Bit Ching about what happened.

Chai Gau and his men were on their way in the rain and they were blocked by the dog's men. They fought and Chai Gau won as more of his men arrived. They worked day and night, building warehouse, secured at the rooftop with wooden planks and the men asked why 4th madam asked them to do this and Chai Gau said "Whatever 4th madam says, we do" and the men were worried if the locusts didn't turn up and 4th madam will be forced to leave (therefore they lose their jobs as well) but Chai Gau reassured them "Brothers! We are 4th Madam gang, remember that! Moreover, how many more decades does one have? Why not spend the time we have doing the right thing? This is the right thing! Come on brothers, we have work to do!" and so the men continued to work.

Amazing

1. they all listen to him

2. Uncle Cheung Fatt is so influential

3. Bit Man actually think he can garner the support of these men!

I am very disappointed Bo Kei didn't like give her terms when being scolded by Bit Man. She should have said "If the locusts do come, you Bit Man will jump to your death, you Fung Yee get lost from this house, Cheung Fatt, you will yelp like a dog, all of you will be fired and Pang Kiu, you will be kicked out!!"

But never! What a missed opportunity!!

Anyway Bit Ching made a decision to go home. His mother Lau Fong opposed bitterly and cried "You promised me you will listen to me" and Bit Ching argued "But mother, 4th mother is all alone, she needs help!" and she cried "You promised me you will stay with me" and he said "But the town is in danger!" and Man and Auntie Hing tried to calm them down but Lau Fong cried "You will stay!" and Bit Ching said "Actually I have decided to leave when you're settled down, I never intended to stay" and Lau Fong angrily said "Is she your mother or AM I YOUR MOTHER?" and Bit Ching rightly retorted "Are you a member of the Cheung family or are you not?" and Lau Fong couldn't reply to that and Bit Ching walked away.

That night Lau Fong told Man to follow him back and take good care of him and she said she isn't angry with Bit Ching at all. She can't follow him back as "I will be a burden, they will use me as a hostage against Bit Ching, I better stay here, that will be more helpful to Bit Ching".

And so Bit Ching left with Man and said goodbye to Fong and Hing.

Bo Kei walked in and saw Pang Kiu with Cheung Kiu. Pang Kiu taunted Bo Kei and said "I hope you don't run down the business by behaving like this! Now everyone is saying how selfish we are to harvest early and blaming us for losing 80% harvest!" Bo Kei cornered Pang Kiu and said softly "Sister, promise me, if I were to be wrong about the locusts and got kicked out, promise me you will do all you can to prevent Bit Man from destroying the business" and Pang Kiu "Don't trick me into discord with first sister! I will not help you!" and Bo kei said "You really think Cheung Kiu never loved you?" and Pang Kiu said loudly "I am just a door protector! He sees me as a door protector! How can anyone love a door protector!!" and Bo Kei said "He loves you, he does. If you don't believe me, read this" and handed her the diary. "He made an entry about Mo's birth and you, read it and tell me if you still think he doesn't care about you".

Pang Kiu read, it was the chapter on the day the locusts came to attack the town and Cheung Kiu said "It was the worst disaster for this town, and I didn't know what to do and it was also the day Mo was born. Kiu was in labour, and the doctor said ..."

FLASHBACK

"Master Cheung, it is a breached birth! 2nd Madam needsa doctor" and everyone was worried and Cheung Kiu summoned the servant (not the dog) to go and the servant went reluctantly but returned with his faces scratched and said "No doctors would come Master! There are just too many locusts flying outside!" ...

Pang Kiu was still reading as Cheung Kiu wrote...

"Give me a straw coat, a lamp and a straw hat! I will go myself!" and Cheung Kiu braved the locusts and there were a lot..

Pause here. Great special effects! The locusts looked real and menacing.

He fell and stood up and finally returned with a distressed looking doctor!

The doctor came out and said "Master, it is too difficult a birth. Tell me, if you had to choose, would you choose the baby or the mother's life?"

and Madam Cheung was there and funnily said "God please save my grandchild! Please save my grandchild!" but Cheung Kiu without a moment of hesitation said "Save the mother, no matter what!"

Cheung Kiu narrated "And then my son, Bit Mo was born. It was a joyous night even if it was disaster out there. Kiu had a difficult birth and she selflessly put her life on the line to give me a son. I promised myself from that day onwards I will appreciate her more..."

Pang Kiu stopped reading, looked at Cheung Kiu on the bed and cried silently...

Next episode, again Super Bo Kei was right! She should have told Bit Man to be the human shield against the menacing locusts!!

I like the end scene, how Cheung Kiu actually chose Kiu. He may not have married her for love, but in the end he did love her. No wonder he was so patient with her, not because of Pang Hang but because of what happened on that fateful day. I hope Pang Kiu wakes up from being so darn stupid.

As for Fung Yee, again WHAT IS HER MASTERPLAN????

It will never ever ever ever work!

There are many things I like about this episode, first and foremost Chai Gau's loyalty, Hoi Tong's insistence on saying sorry to Chai Gau, the loyalty of Chai Gau's men who now have more personality than in the beginning where they were mostly cowards, Bit Ching's argument with his mom, Bo Kei's decision, Pang Kiu's reaction, Cheung Kiu's narration, the special effects and of course, most of all, the kawaiiiiiiiii old super grandma who just refuse to die!

Performances wise, all round very good, except Ron Ng single expression all the way, the girl who plays Man is cute but still an awful actress. I have no opinion on others which remains unchanged. However, let's talk about Susan Tse.

I don't think she is awful but I don't think she is great either. I think she belongs to the old school of acting where everything is amplified. I now know when she is in her evil ways, she purses her lips and widen her eyes. When she tries to be conniving, she smiles that tiny smile. All the way her hands and body made very minimal movements. I am ok with all that but I just wish well.. she isn't so predictable. But she isn't bad, in fact I think her acting is ok. Just a bit too theateric in her expression for my taste and too non moving in other places.

Kiki Sheung continues to be wasted in this role except for the last scene. She can act but terribly underused in here.

Kara Hui was fantastic. Of course she cries so many times but very authetic sort of crying.

I really look forward to how Bo Kei saves the day again in this ATTACK OF THE LOCUSTS episode.

And since I and everybody have been saying how this is the same with Safe Guards (more than Sweetness In The Salt by the way) I have decided to add in all my recap my observation on the sameness.

SAMENESS OBSERVATION

Very the same. True! Bo Kei and Seung Chi have to face many crisis and make tough decisions.

Except if you look deeply, Bo Kei knows what to do all the time, the question is should she do it or will she do it.

In Safe Guards, Seung Chi doesn't know what to do but knew he had to do something and do it fast. He panics, he is scared, he worries, he stumbles, etc. So it makes Seung Chi more human but none the stupider than Bo Kei.

But still very the same.

Favourite line...A bit of Chai Gau's wisdom...

"Many here wants to see you fail. If you do nothing and the locusts do come and destroy the fields and leave us with nothing, you can protect yourself by saying it was natural occurrence. No one can pin the blame on you. But if you were to harvest only 20%, no matter what, if the locusts don't come, they will surely blame you for the loss of 80% of the harvest. Calculate carefully 4th madam, it doesn't benefit you at all!"

- Chai Gau to Bo Kei

EPISODE 11

2010-05-28T23:55:00.000+08:00

Almost halfway through the series. So very fast. This is a good episode but something as I shall explain later made it stupid later on.

From the last episode, Bo kei walked slowly into the house as Chai Gau looked on in complete awe of her and said "4th Madam, please leave, let me be! Leave!" and she faced the angry mob and slowly closed the door. Once inside she took some time to calm herself down and then she faced Chai Gau who was begging her to leave as she calmly said "Chai Gau, sit down" and so he did and they faced each other. Chai Gau cried "4th madam, I can never escape from here. It was own stupidity that I fell into this predicament. 4th Madam, maybe my time is up. Maybe my life is ending today and the journey is right up to here. Don't bother with a nobody like me, 4th Madam these men are crazy and they will do anything, they may even burn you alive with me in here! Go 4th Madam, save yourself!" but Bo Kei slowly and calmly said "Chai Gau, no one would wish for death, only for survival. Didn't you always say how many more decades does one have in our lives? Wish for life Chai Gau. Don't worry, the official is coming soon, they won't dare do anything yet".

The men outside ran to Pang Hang and the men even suggested to Pang Hang "BURN HER IN IT AS WELL!!!!" and Pang Hang went personally to the house and said "Let me go in and talk to that woman". He dramatically pushed open the door and there it was Bo Kei, looking up calmly although her eyes registered worry whilst Chai Gau was directly behind her, sweating, eyes registering fear.

"4th Madam, this is none of your business. Don't threaten me with cutting off my business and all that nonsense. Tell me, which man should allow this to go unnoticed? To have his woman molested and to just let it be?! You leave now, not worth dying for this scumbag!" but Bo kei calmly said "2nd brother in law (kinda formal sounding but that is his position), I cannot conciously stand by and let you do this. I believe Chai Gau. Tell me, where on earth would a would be rapist take along 2 wine cups and a plate of fried snack and sneak into a house to rape someone? Moreover, the door by the side was opened, Chai Gau didn't climb in. And when you discovered them, they were not on the bed, they were standing, struggling with one another. I know you trust her, but Chai Gau was seduced, he did not rape her nor molest her. It was consensual"

Pang Hang said "Hoi Tong said otherwise!"

Hoi Tong I finally learnt is the name of the mistress.

"Master Hang, if you intend to kill Chai Gau for what you think he did, what about your other women? If I remember correctly, your first mistress married someone else. The second one married the local official. Why didn't you burn down the court? Or the house of these men? Why just Chai Gau? Master Hang, you and I both know what really happened. Can't we just call this thing off? Why sour our business relationship for some woman that you won't probably remember in a few more years like the other 2? Like I said Master Hang, if you kill Chai Gau, I will spend the rest of my life doing nothing but bring you to justice!"

Pang Hang said "Fine, let's just say I agree with what you said, but my men, they won't be satisfied! You deal with them!" and Bo Kei paused for a while and then opened the doors and said, "Fellow men, please listen to me for a while. The entire thing was just a misunderstanding. All has been resolved. You may all leave" but they paused and then continued to chant "Kill the rapist! For justice!" and Chai Gau and even Bo Kei looked scared with Pang Hang looking smug. Bo kei turned to Chai Gau and said, "Chai Gau, come on, let's walk out of here" and Chai Gau looked doubtful but he followed 4th Madam.

Meanwhile, before that Bit Ching was running towards the house with a few guards and bumped into Chai Gau's men (as in fellow workers). They asked him what was going on and Bit Ching explained the official was not in and so he was running there with a few guards. The men bravely said they want to follow as well and help Chai Gau. I tell you when I saw this scene I had a feeling one day Chai Gau will end up like in Pang Hang's position, with fellow men following him.

Anyway They reached there and there was a huge mob. I must admit TVB really put quite a big budget into this scene because there were a large mob, all crying "Kill the rapist! For justice!" repeatedly. Bo Kei walked out, Chai Gau froze, too scared to walk and Bo Kei, like a leader she is, held Chai Gau's hand and he dutifully followd her as she too was very worried but walked on. One man walked forward, seemingly about to do something but Bo Kei gave him the death stare and the men just parted and let her walked with Chai Gau, Bit Ching and his employees following her and away. Pang Hang looked on, angry but said nothing, however symbolically they burnt down the house whilst chanting that slogan they were chanting.

Pang Hang went home and Hoi Tong rushed to him and asked urgently "Did you just kill Chai Gau? Did you?". She didn't say it like she wanted Chai GAu to die, in fact she asked with much concern, like someone who didn't want their hands tainted with blood and Pang Hang shouted "You slut dared to seduce other men and of all men that Chai Gau?! You dared to do that?" and he slapped her again and again and again and again and again. Very brutal scene shown in the shadows only.

Next scene Bit Ching went to see the swindler girl, her name I now know as Man whilst her mom is Aunt Hing. She wasn't there so Bit Ching went into the room and went to the bird and said "Magical bird, tell me, will father wake up?" and the girl caught him, laughed at him but still went along with the game and the bird chose a card which said something like "The sun will rise soon" which means the father will be fine. Bit Ching was happy.

Whilst Lau Fong, Bit Ching and Bo Kei were were attending to Cheung Kiu, Bo Kei asked Ching "Have you seen Chai Gau?" and Ching said "Barely. He is like a changed man. He works hard and yet during spare time just sit by the corner by himself" and Bo kei said "If you see him, bring him to me. I still intend to promote him to 3rd manager" but Ching said "He doesn't want it anymore 4th mother, he has changed". Bo Kei looked worried when suddenly Cheung Kiu's finger moved they were all excited and he moved again and right about that time the priest came in and looked at Cheung Kiu who has been in coma for months. In the living room so to speak, all were there and the priest said he believes Cheung Kiu will soon wake up and "the sun shall rise again". Everyone, even Pang Kiu looked happy. But Fung Yee, looked like she was plotting something.

Next scene, Man and her mom saw Ching bought a birdcage and he said he was buying it for the bird since what the bird said came true. Man and her mom laughed at him and explained the entire thing was just a trick that even a 10 year old child would know and she teased him "Cheung Bit Chun (stupid)" and Ching said "You naughty girl! I thought you changed, you won't lie and here you're lying again!" and she replied laughingly "Well I lied to make you feel better! That is different!" and she walked away arm in arm with her mom laughing whilst Ching felt rather stupid.

Fung Yee with Pang Kiu, Bit Man and that idiot Uncle Cheung Fatt. Bit Man panicking "Father is waking up soon! What if he finds out I tried to kick

her out and get the keys?" and even Kiu looked kinda worried whilst Fung Yee said "He won't divorce me, he will just scold me but others I am not sure. Uncle Cheung Fatt, what should we do now?" and Uncle Cheung Fatt said "Let 4th madam retain the keys but I did pledge to old Master that I will help Bit Man to secure his rights to the family business". Uncle Cheung Fatt, have you got anything else to say than that?

Fung Yee looked like she was plotting and she said "Well we have to save ourselves. It is time to act. We will divide all employees into 3 groups; one to promote, one to demote, one to fire!" and Bit Man looked scared at his mom's evil face and Fung Yee looked determined.

Pause here.

Determined to do WHAT? How can doing that will help Bit Man? More ridiculousness to follow.

Chai Gau was walking on the streets when 2 girls walked by, ripped their clothes and scream Chai Gau molested them. Chai Gau ran for his life. In the warehouse, Chai Gau calmed down but then the 2 girls came with their mother and made a lot of noise. Chai Gau denied everything and his men told the women to leave as they said "You must be sent by that Pang Hang!" and then Bo Kei walked in and the women became very quiet, fearful also as Bo Kei said "I heard everything. If what you said is true, fine, let's all go to the courts and let the judge decide" and the mother panicked and said "You rich people think you can do anything!! I will tell people never to buy Hing Fung Nin's rice who harbours a rapist! Shame on you all!!" and they left. Bo Kei told Chai Gau to come to her and she spoke gently "Chai Gau, I want to discuss with you about the arrangements to be made to promote you to 3rd manager" and Chai Gau cried "No 4th Madam, I won't take the position! I am now called a rapist! I will only damage Hing Fung Nin's reputation". Chai Gau really is having a really low self esteem. Anyway Bo Kei gently said "I believe you have proven your worth in this company. We have 1st Manager who runs the sales, 2nd Manager the accounts and since we lack the 3rd manager, why not like this Chai Gau? You just take on the responsibility for a little while? How about that?" and Chai Gau said "No 4th Madam. Please don't promote me! I will hear none of that! I will go back to work and just earn my salary here, I will be very happy" and he walked away and Bo Kei was at lost as to what to do with Chai Gau.

It was at night, Chai Gau was walking home alone when some girls walked by and whispered "Oh that rapist. Hurry!" and Chai Gau looked dejected when Hoi Tong, her face veiled approached him and Chai Gau naturally screamed "Get away from me!" and Hoi Tong said "Chai Gau Gor, I didn't mean you harm! I swear!" and Chai Gau angrily said "Then why did you say what you said? That I climbed into your bed? That I ripped your clothes and tried to rape you? When I wanted to leave and you stopped me! You even imitated a cat's meow and opened the side door!" and Hoi Tong said "If I didn't say that Master Hang will kill me! Even now, look at me..." and she revealed her face, her cheeks badly swollen from the severe beating but Chai Gau was unsympathetic and said "Just leave me alone!" and Hoi Tong said "Wait! Who said I imitated cat's meow? I never did that! I didn't even leave open the side door! I swear it! I didn't!" and Chai Gau looked at her, kinda believing her but then he screamed that she just leave him alone and he ran away whilst Hoi Tong shouted "Chai Gau Gor! Chai Gau Gor!".

I believe Hoi Tong is not a bad person since she did come to personally apologise to him. At least Pang Hang didn't kill her.

Chai Gau reached home and started to think who then tempted him and framed him? Who? When suddenly heard a loud knock and angry man's voice "CHAI GAU!!" and he panicked and said "No! I didn't rape anyone!" and it was actually the former bandit's no 2 man! Chai Gau relaxed as the man explained he just delivered the rice and so stopped by to say hello and said let's go to prostitute den and Chai GAu said no no no and the men laughed and said "If you dare to seduce Pang Hang's woman, you can't be afraid of some prostitute?" but Chai Gau refused and the men said ok and so went to have a drink.

During the drink the men praised Chai Gau who humbly smiled and the no. 2 bandit said "Chau Gau Gor, our men has always wanted to ask you this. Why don't you join us as our boss' 2nd right hand man (the one making an offer is no. 1 so Chai Gau is technically offered no. 2 job but in effect the master bandit no. 3 so to speak but I shall stick with no. 2 term)?" and Chai Gau said "What would I do over there?" and no. 1 said "We have manpower, we have brawns but we don't have brains. Chai Gau gor, you're smart and our men still talk about how you came to our place with 2 pistols to negotiate! Come join us!" and Chai Gau said "I don't think I can. I am sorry. You see, 4th Madam has treated me so well, I want to stay with her, I have to, she is surrounded by small minded people plotting against her" and No. 2 said "well if that is the case, since we can't be partners, we shall be brothers!" and they all cheered to that.

This scene convinces me Chai Gau's fate is with forming a triad or something, like Pang Hang.

Lau Fong was coming home when she saw Aunt Hing being dragged out by police with Man crying and Lau Fong was told Hing stole Kiu's jewelries which Hing denied and Man begged Fong to help her and Fong said she will talk to Kiu and asked Man to follow Hing to the courts. Fong ran in and found Kiu with Fung Yee and Bit Man and begged Kiu to help but Kiu said "Oh no, she didn't steal at all! I framed her!" and Fong looking stunned asked "How you can be so cruel? She will be beaten and she will die, Aunt Hing is too old for that sort of punishment!" and Kiu said "Well, she betrayed us and took her side with that woman. She needs to be taught a lesson" and Fong cried and begged Fung Yee who just cupped her hands to her ears, Bit Man who just pushed her away and Kiu who threatened "Today, that Hing and her daughter, tomorrow, you and your son! What? You think you can betray us and not have any consequences? That we will just let you and Ching get a share in the fortune and my son? What about big sister's son? We are all Cheung family too! And we are all mothers and an eagel will protect her children when under threat, more so us?" and Fong in tears and in total disbelief said "How can you all be so cruel? Why have you all changed into this? Why?" and she fainted.

Pause here.

Ah Fong.... Ah Fong... Ah Fong! Only now you see their cruelty? All those threats before like swearing to god and all was what? Child plaything?

A servant told Bo Kei who ran to see Fong whilst Bit Ching was there already, alarmed at the shaking Fong and asked what happened and Fong just said "You promise me one thing Ching. Leave with me. We pack up and leave for village tomorrow. Promise me!" and Ching said "I will promise you but tell me what happened?" and Fong told him what happened and Bo Kei overheard and Fong looked at her and said "I am sorry 4th sister, please take good care of husband from now on, Ching and I are leaving for the village tomorrow" and Ching looked on, expressionles like Ron Ng is.

Then more bad news. Chai Gau came to see Bo kei and said "4th Madam, I have decided after thinking for many days. I am going to take No. 2's offer to go and live with the bandits who are now legitimising their business. I can be of use there. Here, there is no place for someone like me anymore. My reputation is ruined and I can no longer stay. 4th Madam, please let me have your blessing" and Bo Kei looking glum said "You have my blessing Chai Gau and remember if you ever need my help, I am here at Hing Fung Nin" and Chai Gau looked at her gratefully and bowed and said "Thank you 4th Madam".

And so even Chai Gau leaves!

Bo Kei was with Cheung Kiu when the terrible 3 and their pet dog (Fung Yee, Kiu, Bit Man and their dog, Uncle Cheung Fatt) came in to see Bo Kei and I think it was Kiu or Bit Man who said "Since Ching and Fong has left and Chai Gau is leaving, this company needs a bit of rerrangement. Here, Uncle Cheung Fatt has some suggestion as to who to promote, who to demote and who to retrech." I think it was Bit Man who said "I have seen it and approve of it" and Cheung Fatt let Bo Kei see and Bo Kei said "Big sister, can I see you in private?"

In private, Bo Kei said "I will be straight with you. I do not think 2nd sister is capable of such planning of who to fire, demote or promote. She doesn't have that brain and that would leave you. Why not be honest with me first sister? What is it you want to achieve out of all these?" and Fung Yee smiled and said "I don't understand what is it you're saying" and Bo kei said "Let's be open now".

Fung Yee stopped smiling and playing dumb and said "Since you have put it that way, fine. Every mother wants the best for their children, I just want Bit Man to inherit what is rightfully his" and Bo Kei walked right up to her and said "Do you really think he has the capabilities to run Hing Fung Nin? Do you honestly think he can?" and Fung Yee loudly said "Does it even matter? Even if Bit Man were to throw away the entire fortune, he is at least the rightful heir! It is his right to the fortune, he can damn well inherit it and do whatever he wants!"

Harsh! But she has a point, since Fung Yee is ready to have no money, allowance, food, business, house...

Bo Kei angrily said "If Hing Fung Nin is a restaurant or some shop, I will not even bother but our business is providing rice to the people and Hing Fung Nin is the biggest rice merchant here. I will not let you mess with that because only the people will suffer! Do remember I precede you. I am supposed to be the first wife, not you, so don't play games with me"

Bo Kei, the stupidest thing you have done was not to enter this household as equal first wife!! See! Now all these mess!

Fung Yee looked at her with laser death stare and said smilingly "My son is the rightful heir and I will make sure he gets his due. 4th sister, we shall see! We shall see!" and she laughed as she walked out of the room and Bo Kei looked into the space, looking either angry or worried or both.

Next episode, Bo Kei suggested something about the busines about to be hit badly by locusts and of course Fung Yee said NO WAY JOSE!

So now the real right begins. Fung Yee has moved and now Bo Kei must protect.

But how stupid isn't it? If Cheung Kiu is dead then yes Fung Yee should go all out and do all evil stuff, like framing people and running down the business to force Bo Kei out. BUT Cheung Kiu is still alive and may wake up and so if Cheung Kiu does wake up wouldn't he restore order and kick Fung Yee and Bit Man out? This is one part of the plot that I don't understand. What exactly is Fung Yee's masterplan? How does it even work to their advantage? I just see such bad planning. At least pretend to get on BO Kei's side and then when Cheung Kiu dies, well then just go all out! What a stupid plot.

And I hate how everybody just leaves conveniently. This is like the write suddenly came to a snag; Chai Gau is saved, Ching is working hard, Fong is braver, swindler mother-child are nice people again, so where do we go from here? Oh yeah, have everybody leaving and have Bo Kei defending herself all alone! WHAT?! Why? Things were going well. I can understand Chai Gau leaving, it was for the best but Ching too? And how Fong cried "You've all change" and I was thinking they didn't change, that's them!

After the high of episode 10, this episode just made everything crashing down hard. Perhaps the write realises Fung Yee has nothing to do so let her unleash her evilness now but at least do it in a more logical way. So now have to wait Cheung Kiu to wake up and restore order or just die and then total chaos! Poor Bo Kei, for all she has done as a strong woman she is, the only solution to her problem seems dependent on a man lying in coma! Disgusting! She can solve the problems herself, like what she did for Chai Gau. Bo Kei without Chai Gau is like a twin losing the other twin. Can't do! I hope Chai Gau returns angry, hungry and really pissed off. I hated the low self esteem Chai Gau.

As for performances, however much I dislike Lau Fong, Kara Wai did an amazing job in the way she begged and cried and begged. Very realistic and absolutely amazing performance.

Ron Ng is Ron Ng. What more can I say?

Sheren Teng was wonderful and I like how she played Bo Kei as one straightforward woman. Her scene with Susan Tse was really good but it was the earlier scene where she led wayne's Chai Gau out of the crowd that was the best. Her eyes registered fear even if her face hid that well. Amazing performance. And poor Bo Kei! Now all alone!

Wayne Lai is also great, in the earlier scene his fear all was there and later scenes of low self esteem, all very well done.

Everyone else is good, however I think the character of Pang Kiu is reaching the end of her usefulness. Her job is to just cause trouble, be stupid and bully everyone. I don't see her purpose. And her whole talk about protecting her children and all, well doesn't she realise if Bit Man got the fortune, her Bit Mo will be left with nothing at all? Kiki Sheung did great but the character this time failed the actress.

Pierre Ngo is also wonderful and I feel like slapping him, however I feel he is so underused in several episodes now. The entire series right up until now is dominated by Sheren Teng, Wayne Lai and then some by Ron Ng and even Kara Wai. The rest are like sidekicks.

Susan Tse, even if I just can't understand her Fung Yee's masterplan, her last scene with Sheren Teng was amazing. Great acting by Sheren and some good acting by Susan Tse, the way all the facade was dropped and the way she said her lines, that scene to me is the best. If someone is willing for her entire fortune to be thrown away what more can people say eh? However Fung Yee is really dumb. I wouldn't say Susan Tse was amazing though. I just feel she is rather inconsistent in that scene itself, one moment fearful, in another all out nasty. At least there is something for her to do. I was beginning to feel Fung Yee is a piece of furniture in this series!

But still, what the heck is Fung Yee's master plan all about??

And when oh when will the saviour awaken? I am kinda sick with the whole 3 stooges and their dog doing damage with Bo Kei doing damage control. I'd rather see Bo Kei solving dilemmas with the business than trying to beat these 3 rabid dogs and their well dog away!

Ok, favourite line...only a mother can utter such a line...

"Does it even matter? Even if Bit Man were to throw away the entire fortune, he is at least the rightful heir! It is his right to the fortune, he can damn well inherit it and do whatever he wants!"

- Fung Yee to Bo Kei

EPISODE 10

2010-05-27T23:55:00.001+08:00

GOD DAMN YOU TVB FOR STOPPING AT THE RIGHT MOMENT!! OMG, suspense, suspense!!! This episode would have my vote as the one with the best cliffhanger scene in recent memory.

Recap first...

Madam Cheung went into the room to look at Cheung Kiu and scolded Bo Kei for not informing her about Cheung Kiu's problem. Then Bit Man walked right up and said "Grandma, you never told me father said to many things to you!" and grandma said "He actually said more. He said this family has some black sheeps and as his mother and a matriach of this family I must do my duty to protect this family, even if I should be against my official daughter in law or my eldest grandson. All my grandsons shall be protected. Do you agree, Fung Yee? Kiu?" and they answered yes and she asked "Man?" and he answered reluctantly "Yes".

Ahhhh another evil plot diverted.

Once with Bit Ching and Bo Kei, Ching said to grandma "Grandma I was with you at the temple during those times, father was never there. How come you said what you said?" and grandma said "There are people who will make up stories and lie for their own gain and for my family, for my son, I who have been a vegetarian for so many years have broken my own vows. If these people who are selfish can lie, and so can I"

What she meant was she has been a devout Buddhist abstaining from lying but she did it for the family.

Bo Kei smiled gratefully and said "Thank you, mother" but grandma said "Chai Gau was right. You've inherited a large lock, this is not an easy responsibility. I do sympathise with you Bo Kei and thank you for looking after this family" and Bo Kei nodded gratefully.

Chai Gau and his men went to a restaurant for lunch to celebrate another evil plot diverted. They were very happy saying "Chai Gau Gor is the greatest. If wasn't for you, we would not have jobs left and we don't even know what will happen to Hing Fung Nin! Chai Gau Gor, surely now 4th Madam will promote you to 3rd manager position!" which I think is like lower ranked manager or supervisor.

Chai Gau humbly said "Don't say that! I didn't do what I did for the promotion. I did it for 4th Madam. (cue his favourite quote) How many decades are we left with? We should spend our time doing the right thing and helping 4th Madam was the right thing to do!" and so they drank happily.

Before that when Chai Gau was walking to join his men, he bumped into Pang Hang's young mistress who was speaking with a fellow villager bringing some dried guinea pig or something and she flirted with Chai Gau and told him they were from the same nearby village. Chai Gau asked the fellow villager to take home some rice to his adopted grandma.

Pause here.

Adopted grandma IS STILL ALIVE?? I thought she would have starved by now!

Anyway Chai Gau was very happy she paid so much attention to him.

Later that night he was walking home, slightly drunk when the mistress bumped into him and was practically all over him. She pulled him into the alley and even suggested he follows her back home for a night and Chai Gau was very tempted. He tried to kiss her but she pulled away and deliberately dropped a handkerchief on the floor and Chai Gau picked it up and followed her until someone called him "Chai Gau Gor!" and it was Bit Ching. He watched her walked out of sight and wasn't paying much attention to Bit Ching until Bit Ching said "Chai Gau Gor, don't be angry with 4th Mother. She had wanted to promote you but she felt the time wasn't right and you're a bit rash, always acting without thinking of consequences first. Be patient, you will get promoted soon" and Chai Gau suddenly woke up from the trance and said "4th Madam is right. Young Master, don't worry. I promise you, from now on I will work hard and learn the business. I will make myself useful and contribute to Hing Fung Nin!" and Bit Ching was rather happy to hear that.

Meanwhile Bo Kei found a famous doctor who examined Cheung Kiu and promised that he can cure him with 5 doses of medicine and gave the list to Bo Kei. Grandma and all were very happy until Bo Kei looked at the list, said thank you to the doctor and revealed the list is nothing more than just some nutritous soup recipe. All was disappointed. I thought it was very gracious of Bo Kei not to reveal the doctor's hoax.

Anyway Bo Kei and Bit Ching went to look for the priest who has yet to return. Disappointed they went home and saw the ex swindlers playing those bird picking cards again and the bird repeatedly chose the one which says Cheung Kiu will wake up and be alright. Bit Ching felt it was a trickery and used the bird again and again, much to the amusement of Bo Kei who later as she washed Cheung Kiu said "Cheung Kiu, don't ever call Bit Ching Cheung Bit Chun (Stupid) but call him Cheung Bit Hao (fillial son). I never quite noticed that but recently I noticed Bit Ching is all grown up. He used to sit with the men and drink after each delivery but now he spends his time learning the business. He has matured and he said he is doing all this so that when you wake up you will see how mature he has been."

Indeed.

Night time, we see Pang Hang's mistress lying on bed with ... BIT MAN!!!! They have been having an affair! But Bit Man wanted to leave and the mistress cried saying he didn't pay her much attention and said "At least that Chai Gau knew how to make me laugh!" and Bit Man angry said "Well why not go seduce Chai Gau then!" and he left in a huff.

Next day she passed by Chai Gau who was busy learning how to use an abascus when she pushed him into the alley and seduced him. Chai Gau refused to be seduced and then she kissed him on the lips. He wanted to kiss her as he grabbed her waist but she pulled away and said "Come to my place tonight. The side door will be opened" and so Chai Gau was in a dilemma.

Meanwhile Cheung Kiu's hand moved and he opened his eyes and said "Bo Kei".

He woke up?!

Nope, it was Bo Kei dreaming and she ran to Cheung Kiu shaking him but Cheung Kiu was still in coma. Bo Kei under a dilemma was thinking should she promote Chai Gau? She wanted to but felt Chai Gau was not ready yet. She thought to herself "If I don't promote Chai Gau, it would be unfair to him but to promote him may in the end hurt him more". She said to Cheung Kiu "Wake up. Wake up. I could do with your advise on what to do with Chai Gau".

Indeed.

Later that day Bo Kei went to see Chai Gau but was told he left earlier (IDIOT!) and she said to the men to relay a message to Chai Gau; "Tell him from tomorrow onwards he is the 3rd manager" and the men were very happy to hear that!

At night. Bit Man argued with the mistress and Bit Man was leaving as mistress said "Why are you leaving so early? Hang won't be back tonight. He is meeting with a friend in a restaurant" but again they argued about something and so Bit Man left. As he left by the side door, he saw Chai Gau standing in front of the main door, hesitating whether to walk in or not. Bit Man hid and meowed and snuck back into the side door and hid as Chai Gau walked in and went into the room to see a drunk mistress who was still quite happy to see him. Bit Man smiled and immediately ran to the restaurant and declared "Uncle! I saw Chai Gau standing suspisciously in front of your house and then I saw him walked in!" and Pang Hang looked murderous.

Bit Man, what a selfish evil man! He didn't even think that maybe that accusation will cause his lover's death as well. Maybe he did and didn't care.

Chai Gau and mistress was drunk, very drunk and as she sat on his lap and fed him the fried meat that is prepared like in his village, Chai Gau has flashbacks when he was a child and how his adopted grandma fed him the same food. Then he remembered what she said to him as she urged him to leave the village in Ep 1 and Chai Gau was filled with remorse. He immediately pushed the mistress away and urgently said "I can't do this! I can't afford to cross Pang Hang! I promised my grandma I will bring home carts of white rice! I am sorry, I have to go!" and as he ran the mistress cried out drunkenly "If you leave I will kill myself!!" and Chai Gau without a moment of hesitation said "Do as you please!" and he ran but heard crash and ran back him and the girl just hugged him and he tried to push her away when Pang Hang came into the room with his men! They immediately slashed him and he ran and fought and Pang Hang said "You dare to seduce my woman!!" and Chai Gau said "It's not what it seems! We didn't do anything!" but Pang Hang didn't care and Chai Gau ran for his life. Pang Hang went into the room and saw the woman drinking more and he wanted to strike her when she explained "I was drunk!! How would I know what was happening? Did you know he just climbed into the bed and tried to remove my clothes? I hugged him, thinking he was you! You haven't visited me in 5 days, can you blame me for drinking out of loneliness?" and Pang Hang angrily said "Are you speaking the truth?!" and she said "Of course I am! Why would I be interested in that smelly ugly Chai Gau? He pretended to be a dog, carried a bone in his mouth and ran on the streets like a dog, remember? Why would I want to seduce someone like that?!" and Pang Hang believed her and when he left, she sat down and sighed a sigh of relief.

Selfish woman. She and Bit Man deserves one another.

Pang Hang ordered "Men, get all men of the association to hunt this Chai Gau down. And when you find him, you don't need to even inform me. Just chop him into 18 pieces and throw the pieces into the river!" and someone asked "Should we inform the official first?" and Pang Hang said "NO. And Chai Gau doesn't have family here so I know he will find that Hong Bo Kei. One of you follow Hong Bo Kei day and night and when you see Chai Gau going to her, inform me immediately!"

Chai Gau ran back home to pack things when Bit Ching and men came by, knocked on the door and wondered why no one answered. Chai Gau remained silent and Bit Ching said loudly "Chai Gau Gor, open the door! We have great news! 4th mother said to promote you to..." and everyone said "3rd manager!!!" and everyone said "You must be so happy now!" and Chai Gau inside was crying and silently said "I am sorry" and then he heard a bunch of men coming and he ran away through the backdoor. Bit Ching saw the men kicked down the doors and all of them was confused what was going on.

Bit Man carried a gong and knocked on it many times and everyone came out and he declared "All you servant girls, lock your doors tightly! Our town has a rapist and he is someone we all know; our 3rd manager, Chai Gau!!" and everyone was shocked and Bit Ching came back and rushed to Bo Kei and said "4th mother can I speak with you in private?" and Bit Man sarcastically said "What? You're hiding that rapist Chai Gau issit?" and Bit Ching ignored him but Bo Kei said "Ching, whatever you want to say, say it here" and so Ching said "4th mother, Chai Gau is in trouble. Can you help him? Uncle's men is looking for him and I am afraid they will kill him before he can explain himself" and Lau Fong said "You know brother in law dislikes Chai Gau, could there be a misunderstanding?" but Bo Kei fiercely declared "If he did tried to rape Hang's mistress, then he deserves whatever is coming. You know how Pang Hang's ego is and he wouldn't normally spread such shameful news out unless there is some truth in it. If he had been usurping funds or stealing from the company, maybe I can forgive him but I hate men who rape! Ching, if you see Chai Gau tell him he is henceforth fired and Hing Fung Nin shall have nothing to do with this scumbag.Everyone, go back to bed" and Ching looks confused whilst Bit Man clearly enjoyed the show.

Pause here.

I know, I KNOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWW Bo kei ain't that heartless! It is a strategy, to divert attention!

Indeed!

Bit Ching was carrying the rice into the shop when his men asked "Young master, won't 4th madam help Chai Gau gor?" and Ching said "No" and the men were angry and said "If Chai Gau Gor did do what he is accused of, we have nothing more to say but that should be decided in the courts. If he were to be killed just like that, that is not justice!"

Chai Gau has some very loyal friends I tell you.

Bo Kei heard and reprimanded the men to mind their own business and to work. Then she curtly told Ching to come to her and look at some mistakes in the account books. There were Pang Hang's men observing her and quietly she said "Pang Hang's men is following me. If Chai Gau ever look for you, bring him to me" and Ching understood.

That night Ching went to an old house and there was Chai Gau.

Pause here.

HOW ON EARTH DID HE KNOW WHERE CHAI GAU WAS? HUH?

Anyway Chai Gau begged "Young master, looking at my deeds and how I saved Master Mo and helped the business, please lend me some money so that I can run away" but Ching said "No, 4th mother said to tell her where you're and she will help you" and Chai Gau cried "NO! PLEASE DON'T TELL HER! PLEASE! She was right about me! I never thought of the consequences. I deserve this! I truly did!" and Ching asked "Did you tried to rape her?" and Chai Gau cried "NO! I DIDN'T! It wasn't like that at all!!" but Ching said he will find 4th mother but Chai Gau cried "NO, I BEG YOU DON'T TELL HER WHERE I AM!!" as he knelt down to beg and Ching promised him.

Chai Gau feels ashamed I think to see Bo kei.

Ching went home and told Bo Kei what happened and said Chai Gau didn't want to see her. Bo Kei looked worried.

Next day Bo Kei went shopping for medicine with swindler mother (not sure her name) and asked to use the bathroom and swapped places with the daughter dressed like Bo Kei. Bo Kei followed Ching to find Chai Gau.

Meanwhile Pang Hang found out where Chai Gau is and gave the order to burn down the house with Chai Gau in it!

Once there, it was night time and Chai Gau opened the door and saw Ching and Bo Kei. Immediately he tried to close the door as Chai Gau said "4th madam, please leave, please!" but they pushed down the door and Bo Kei told Ching to wait outside. Bo Kei asked "Did you do it?" and Chai Gau cried "No! I didn't but I think I deserve this! I did drink with her in the house!" and Bo Kei said "So you did seduce her?" and Chai Gau said "I didn't! She was the one who kept pestering me and I did went to the house through the side door which was unlocked. We drank, earlier we did kiss once but nothing else! She fed me my village's signature dish and I remembered my adopted grandma and I pushed her away. I didn't want to throw my future away! 4th Madam, you were right. I never thought of the consequences and I have thrown my future away!" but Bo Kei calmly said "Chai Gau, you said the door was unlocked?" and Chai Gau nodded as Bo Kei urged him to tell her every details when Pang Hang's men arrived and started to laid out the wood and throw I suppose the olden day equivalent of kerosene but for simplicity sake I shall call it kerosene. Ching ran in and Bo Kei told him to find the official quick! Meanwhile Bo Kei walked out and shouted "How dare you do this in front of me? If you do burn him alive, I will report all of you!" and the head honcho said "Do as you like 4th Madam" and they poured kerosene everywhere as Bo kei pushed them away and cried "Stop it! STOP IT!!" and Chai Gau bravely opened the door and said "4th Madam, run! Run before you hurt yourself too! Don't bother with me!" and suddenly the men threw the whole bucket of kerosene onto Chai Gau, drenched and shocked Chai Gau cried "4th Madam, help! 4th Madam..." and Bo Kei who didn't know what else to do turned to the head honcho and said "If you insist on pouring the kerosene and burning down this house with Chai Gau in it, please wait until I am in the house and sitting down comfortably and then you may set the house on fire as you like!" and she turned back as the man said "4th Madam!" and she walked in slowmo into the house with determination with Chai Gau crying "NO 4th MADAM! NO!!!!" and she walked slowly inside...

NEXT EPISODE! DAMN IT!! WHAT A CLIFFHANGER! SUSPENSE! SUSPENSE! HOW AM I GONNA SURVIVE ONE DAY TO KNOW HOW BO KEI WILL SAVE THE DAY FOR CHAI GAU? HOW????

Anyway next episode, Pang Hang outside the house, Bo Kei inside with Chai Gau, a confrontation of epic proportion between the 2 meanwhile swindlers were thrown out of house and Kiu told Lau Fong she and Bit Ching will be thrown out too!! What happened? Is Kiu gonna spend the next entire series bullying Fong and Fong alone?

What an episode! The last shot was simply amazing, with Bo kei walking slow mo into the house much to the shock of everyone. I think she was at her wit's end and what a scene! Clearly they can't burn the house with her in it. How on earth can they explain killing the 4th wife of the richest merchant in town! This is murder by the way!

Chai Gau is just darn stupid. He knew and he fell into the trap repeatedly. If after this he doesn't pledge his undying loyalty to Bo Kei and even Bit Ching, he is indeed useless!!

What more can I say about Bit Man? What a scumbag. Even old Madam Cheung showed a bit more class, grace and authority than Bit Man, Fung Yee and Pang Kiu.

I have no comments over the performances except Sheren Tang and Wayne Lai are both exceptional. I like how Sheren Tang approaches the role of Bo Kei. She is not a superwoman and at times she is at lost at what to do but she knew if she had to do something, she will risk her life for it. Whilst it is strange how she often save Chai Gau and all, like I said before maybe she saw herself in Chai Gau and moreover it is the right thing to do.

Other than that I have no comments on the performances because frankly I am beginning to feel other than Bo Kei, Bit Ching, Bit Man and Chai Gau, the rest are just there to stand in a particular scene.

Favourite scene...I really love this line, she certainly said it with style and she got more balls than all men combined! Except for Bit Ching, who is also as brave!

"If you insist on pouring the kerosene and burning down this house with Chai Gau in it, please wait until I am in the house and sitting down comfortably and then you may set the house on fire as you like!"

- Bo Kei to the head honcho

EPISODE 09

2010-05-26T23:55:00.000+08:00

I wouldn't blame you if you were to switch on the TV halfway through this episode and though "Eh, Safe Guards on repeat meh?"

Anyway recap first.

Cheung Kiu is in a deep coma. That is a fact. Fung Yee is ready to strike. A fact again. Pang Kiu is stupid. Another fact.

Fung Yee told Pang Kiu Cheung Kiu married her out of pressure. She ran to Lau Fong, dragged her to the altar of Kuan Yin and pushed her roughly and asked her "Is it true, what Big sis said?" and Lau Fong narrated the past...

Ahhhhhh, Lau Fong was actually wife no. 2!!! Cheung Kiu actually married her for love and he was happy with just 2 wives. But younger Pang Hang came and angrily said "Will you or will you not marry my sister? She is in love with and haven't eaten for days!!" and Cheung Kiu said "No I will not!" and Pang Hang said "If that is the case I will not continue to deliver your rice!" and Cheung Kiu actually said "Fine!" but Pang Hang refused to back down and said "You will marry my sister!! She is willing to be the 3rd wife!" but Cheung Kiu said "Never. I already said, I am happy with a wife and a 2nd wife" but Pang Hang was so angry her wanted to strike Cheung Kiu but Lau Fong came out and fought with him and was defeated, lying on the floor and Pang Hang said "Well then, I will kill this wife of yours and you will have only 1 wife then!" but Fung Yee stopped him and Cheung Kiu had no choice but to say "Alright, I will marry her" but he wasn't smiling when he said what he said.

Back to present, Pang Kiu cried "No! Husband wasn't forced! He loved me! He didn't marry me to save you!" and she rememberd how she stood for hours staring at his painting in her room and no matter what Pang Hang said she didn't listen. Pang Hang cried "Sister! He is not willing to marry you! He said he is happy with just 1 wife! I will find you a better man than that Cheung Kiu!" but she wasn't listening. She passed by the street and saw Cheung Kiu as a groom and carrying out Lau Fong, a very happy looking man. Pang Kiu cried back to her home, threw a huge tantrum. Then suddenly the brother appeared and said "Look sister! Cheung Kiu said he will marry you! He even wrote you a love letter!" and she read, not understanding certain words but was very happy.

Pause here.

Actually before that letter scene, there was a scene where Lau Fong was told to narrate the story of the love letter. It seems Pang Hang forced Cheung Kiu to write a love letter, he couldn't do it and Fung Yee said the words and he wrote the letter. After that Pang Hang said "Ok then, she will be very happy. One more thing. My sister will be the 2nd wife!" and Cheung Kiu, fed up with Pang Hang said "Ok, fine! But you will reduce your fee by 15%" and Pang Hang said "Well, in the end it is about the business eh? Making yourself so noble! Fine!"

Pang Kiu was very upset, very very upset. She was walking near the mountains, reciting every word that Cheung Kiu wrote when she saw Bit Ching and his men delivering rice. Without much words, she pushed all the carts into the sea! Bit Ching ran home to Bo Kei and told her what happened. Bo Kei was going to see Pang Kiu when the servants said Chai Gau is quitting the job and told her to persuade him otherwise. Bo Kei went to Chai Gau first, who was lounging on a sack of rice, not caring about anything as the men persuaded him to return to work. Bo Kei told them to go back to work, she will know how to handle this. Bo Kei gently asked "Chai Gau, what is the matter now? I've heard you want to quit. You have already took a few days off, I didn't question you did I? I know you needed rest after what happened with Pang Hang. But you have come back to work for 3 days and frankly you haven't done much except to pour your bitterness. You're great Chai Gau, even the servants are persuaded by your tales of unfairness and they are begging me to promote you to 3rd taukeh (= 3rd boss or 3rd supervisor)" and Chai Gau said "Well I deserve it! I worked hard. If I had known you will deny me my promotion, I wouldn't have done all I did!" and Bo kei said "Chai Gau, I am very busy and I myself is in the middle of a problem here. Let me settle my problems and then I will address yours" and Chai Gau asked hopefully "When 4th Madam? When?" and Bo kei said "When I say I will, I will but for now, please do your job" and so she left him alone.

She then went to Pang Kiu and asked gently "2nd Sister, is everything alright? Bit Ching told me what happened" and Pang Kiu just said "Surrender the keys to the accounts and the company seal now" and rather coldly as well. Bo Kei was surprised and said "I don't know what happened to you" and Pang Kiu said "Nothing happened. Just surrender the keys now!" but Bo Kei ignored her. Bo Kei and Bit Ching went to see Lau Fong hoping to have an explanation and Lau Fong like a robot said "Surrender the keys and company seal now" and Bit Ching said "Mother, you yourself said father said 4th mother will be in charge, how can you say this now? Mother, please don't do this, have a bit of courage, say the truth, I will never forgive you if you don't" but Lau Fong repeated the same thing, teary eyed as she also said "Son, just don't cause trouble! Let them be!" and then all 2 women and Bit Man walked in and said the same thing. Bo Kei knew she was surrounded and Bit Ching questioned Bit Man and Bit Man slapped him hard! Bo Kei said "Ok, give me 5 days. I will surrender the keys and seal after 5 days. I have a big negotiation and when it is done you will have the key" and Bit Man arrogantly said "I will handle that, you're no longer the head. So surrender the keys!" but Bo kei said "Do you even know the nature of this negotiation? It is providing rice for the military and I will be meeting with 2 high ranking officials. Do you even know how to handle them? If you say the wrong words, not only will we lose the business, you will lose your head!" but Bit Man said "We can afford to lose this business! Don't you stall!" but Bo kei walked to Fung Yee and said "You all know because Husband donated 1/3 of his fortune our treasury is almost empty. We need this business" and Pang Kiu said "Don't believe her sister!" but Fung Yee said "Fine, you have 5 days".

Once in her room, Bo Kei quickly took the accounts keys out and gave them to Bit Ching and said urgently "No matter what happens, never let them have these keys and the seal. Give me 3 days and I will be back!" but Bit Ching said "But you said 5 days" and Bo kei said "That was just a lie, an excuse. There is no negotiations. I will be going to --- and retrieve a letter your father personally wrote to a fellow merchant that I am to run the business and he is to deal with me in regards to the dealings" and so Bo Kei left.

Fung Yee knew she was tricked when she saw a letter where the merchant just sent saying he will take care of Bo Kei for Cheung Kiu and about the letter.

Bo kei was about to board the boat when the 2 swindlers ran and said "4th madam, 4th Madam! Master is dying! He can't wait anymore!" and Bo Kei worried, ran all the way back crying "Cheung Kiu, wait for me! Wait for me! Please don't die!" but once she reached Cheung Kiu's room, breathless she saw only Mo there. She knew she was tricked. Bit Ching dropped by and was very surprised to see Bo kei. Bo Kei asked Mo to leave the room and she told Bit Ching "You better be careful with that mother and daughter. They lied to me, I think they're on their side" and Bit Ching said "Ungrateful people! What now 4th mother?" and Bo Kei too was at lost what to do.

Lau Fong was at the church looking for the priest-doctor but he wasn't back yet. Bo kei (and Bit Ching was there as I recalled) walked into the church and Lau Fong was quite ashamed to see Bo Kei. Bo Kei asked why she was there and she explained and Bo Kei angrily said "Do you think husband would want to wake up to see the mess we are in? What you did, was a disservice to your husband. Why do you bother now when all you did was to plunge another knife into his heart when you knew his instruction clearly?" and Lau Fong began to cry as Bit Ching said "Mother, have a bit of courage. Father wouldn't want to see this happening" and Lau Fong timidly asked "What can I do?" and Bo Kei said "Tell the truth when the time comes but meanwhile, tell me everything you hear and pretend you're still on their side" and Lau Fong nodded as Bit Ching approved of his mother's decision.

Meanwhile Fung Yee has invited all the uncles, and respected members of Cheung family to the house and even old Madam Cheung, telling tales of how Bo Kei usurping power and denying poor Bit Man his right to the business and naturally all are very angry and will be coming to Cheung household with the aim of divorcing Bo kei on the reason that Bo Kei is usurping power.

Chai Gau came by to see Bo Kei and said "4th madam, I need your advice. Another merchant has asked me to join him and let me run the business. I wonder if I should?" and Bo Kei said "If that is the case I think you should" and Chai Gau got very angry and cried "You don't even bother to ask me to stay? I regret saving Mo, I regret helping you!" and Bo Kei said "Chai Gau, I can't promote you now and I have my reasons. You can neither run the business or negotiate and if I let you, you will only cause trouble" and Chai Gau cried "BUT if you won't let me try, we will never know! I am capable!" and Bo kei said "It is much too early ..." and Chai Gau cut her off and cried "So you're just using me?! I will never rise up am I? Never if I am still under you! You wretched woman! You lied! I should never have trusted you!" and he turn to leave but Bo kei said gently "Chai Gau, if you ever need a recommendation letter, you can come to me. And with regards to my promise to you and my threat to Pang Hang, I meant it and it will continue even after you leave this place. That is my promise to you" but Chai Gau is beyond listening.

Not long later Chai Gau met with Fung Yee and Bit Man in a restaurant and Chai Gau was very arrogant as Bit Man offered him 4 bars of gold and said this will help him open his own business. Chai Gau was so happy he took the gold and said "I will say whatever you want me to say!" and they both smiled at that.

Bo Kei meanwhile received a letter I think that that merchant she was gonna meet was in town. She sent Bit Ching to retrieve the letter.

The elders have arrived. Pang Kiu went in and ordered Bo kei out and Bo Kei calmly asked as she attended to the comatose Cheung Kiu, "Is mother here yet?" and the answer is no and so Bo kei said "I will come out as soon as she is here" and Pang Kiu stalked outside as Pang Hang and gang felt very insulted. They wanted to drag her out but Fung Yee said "Let's not make a scene. Lau Fong, you go" and so she went and Bo Kei asked Lau Fong to delay the matter as she is waiting for Bit Ching to come back with the letter and Lau Fong was surprised Bit Ching was running her errands. She walked out and explained Bo kei was attending to Cheung Kiu and they could wait a while but everyone grew angry and wanted to drag her out when Madam Cheung arrived and too was angry she had to wait for Bo Kei when Bit Ching arrived and said calmly "I will persuade 4th mother" and Lau Fong wanted to follow.

Once in the room Bit Ching showed Bo Kei the letter and Bo Kei was very happy because that's the proof and she said "I will see how they can now deny this proof!" when suddenly Lau Fong said "Husband's eyes just moved!!" and so they both ran to see Cheung Kiu when Bit Ching turned around and saw Lau Fong burning the letter. Bo Kei was in shocked as Lau Fong explained "I am sorry! But when I left the church that day Pang Hang threatened me! He said next time Bit Ching goes out for delivery the boats may be tempered with and Bit Ching will die in a watery grave!" and Bit Ching didn't know what else to say.

Pause here.

Lau Fong was so irritatingly timid!! Pang Kiu I know is acting out of sheer anger, again another stupid woman. Fung Yee is beginning to make me question did she marry for love or for money?

Bo kei walked out, greeted Madam Cheung who promptly said "Bo Kei, surrender the keys and seal now" and Bo kei was speechless for a while as Madam Cheung said "Your fate with my son is over! He is in a coma and will never wake up. Bo Kei, you can leave! Leave this house! Just surrender the keys and leave!" and everybody urged her as she said loudly "May I know, which law did I break? Which rule did I disobeyed that I am to be divorced?" and Fung Yee accused her of usurping power and Bo kei took out the keys and said "Husband been in coma for 2 weeks, and I have been holding this keys more than that. If Husband didn't want me to run the business, surely he would have taken the keys from me! Moreover, sisters, you all heard that Husband said I will run the business!" and Fung Yee and Pang Kiu both said "We didn't hear at all!" and Bo Kei was about to defend herself when Chai Gau, dressed in his best dress strolled in and said "I heard what Master Cheung said!" and Bo kei was shocked to see Chai Gau and his smirking face as Bit Man kinda hugged Chai Gau and said "This is our company's most loyal employee. He saved Mo's life! Listen to him!" and Chai Gau said "I was in the restaurant when Master Cheung complained there is no one who is capable to succeed him in the busines. That was when 4th madam said gently to let her hold the keys until young master here learn the business and Master gave her the keys! Everyone, this is the classic example of Lau Bei borrowing the land and never returned the land!"

Pause here. Story has it Lau Bei of Romance Of Three Kingdoms asked to borrow a land and after using it never returned in. So it means someone who takes something and never return that something after the use and thus claiming that something to be their own. In a way Chai Gau said it is true, Bo Kei is usurping power.

Bo Kei was speechless, she didn't know what to say as Chai Gau continued "This woman! What can I say about this woman? I saved Mo's life, I got back the rice, I have my everything to this company and I expected to be promoted to be 3rd boss but I was never given the job. Her excuses were I wasn't ready; I wouldn't know how to run the business. I wouldn't know how to negotiate. I threatened to leave and you know what this stupid woman did? She said she will give me a recommendation letter and she will protect me with her life against Pang Hang no matter what! Did you believe this stupid woman?" and Bit Man sensing something was wrong told Chai Gau to shut up and even Pang Hang said "You better shut up!" and Chai Gau shouted "OR WHAT? I AM NOT AFRAID OF YOU ANYMORE YOU SCUMBAG PANG HANG!" and he continued "If she is willing to sacrifice her life for me, I Chai Gau hereby pledge my loyalty to her! But she is such a stupid woman! Idiot! You could have become a comfortable 4th madam, why would you butt your head into the business? Surrender the keys and live a comfortable life! But noooooo... you still want to run the business! You are such a stupid woman to take on this responsibility, these keys are like shackles! You willingly want to cuff yourself to this stupid family! How stupid of you!" and Bo Kei knew Chai Gau was on her side and her eyes began to redden as she stared gratefully at Chai Gau, again speechless as Chai Gau walked to Madam Cheung and loudly said "Old woman, how old are you? How many years have you lived? Can't you see which daughter in law is good and which is the bad one?" and even old Madam Cheung was having her doubts as Bit Man said "Don't believe him! He is crazy!" as Chai Gau shouted "They paid me 4 gold bars to say 4th Madam usurp power and never return the power!" and Bit Man said "He has no proof!" and Chai Gau threw the 4 gold bars onto the floor and shouted "HERE IS THE PROOF!" and he then urged everyone "Everyone! How many more years do you have left? Come on, do the right thing! Speak up! Speak up for the justice of it all!" and Bit Ching went to Lau Fong and said "Mother, please do the right thing" and finally Lau Fong timidly said "Everyone, husband did say to 4 of us that 4th sister will run the business" and Bo Kei looked at her tearfully and as if saying thank you to Lau Fong and then Chai Gau shouted "Anyone else? Speak up!!" and the younger swindler said "I have something to say. It was first madam who told us to lie that Master was dying to 4th Madam. I was just cleaning him up minutes before so I knew it was a lie" and her mother said "We were threatened that if we didn't do as we are told, we will be kicked out and sent back to jail!" and Chai Gau cried "Good! Anyone else?" and even Mo walked out and said even when Pang Kiu said no no "Mother told me father did say the business goes to 4th mother" and everyone was shocked and Madam Cheung was very quiet as Fung Yee said "You see, clearly 4th sister and 3rd sister heard what Husband said that 4th sister will run the business but myself and 2nd sister didn't hear such thing. Since there is a conflict, clearly Bit Man as the eldest should run the business. Don't we all agree on that?" and the elders nodded but Madam Cheung said "Well, there were actually 3 who heard Cheung Kiu said the business goes to Bo Kei and that 3th person is me, when Cheung Kiu visited me at the temple before he went into the coma" and Pang Kiu said "But husband never left home during that time!" and Bo Kei looked at Madam Cheung who continued "He did tell me that actually. But anyway I have decided that Bo Kei will continue to run the business, whether Cheung Kiu wakes up or otherwise and my advise to you Fung yee is to let it go. Alright now, we can stop this now!" and Fung Yee was defeated, badly! And Bo Kei could hardly believe what was happening and her eyes now has tears in them.

Next episode... DAMN! NO PREVIEW FOR NEXT EPISODE!!! WHY? WHY???

You may wonder did Cheung Kiu meet with his mother and told her what she said he did? My feeling is no. The old woman was misled by all those accusations but when she heard what Chai Gau, Lau Fong, Mo and the 2 swindlers said she was convinced. Moreover she knew Bo kei since she was a child, she somehow trusted Bo Kei in the mounting evidence that Cheung Kiu did gave her his business. So she lied to settle the issue.

As for Chai Gau, I never doubted his loyalty to Bo Kei. Yes he is unhappy, he is angry, he is even dissatisfied with Bo Kei earlier on and even if he is hungry for success, very desperate for it, he has integrity and he could never betray his integrity for success. Moreover he knew which horse to back and Bit Man isn't it. I believe he did what he did because he respects Bo Kei and he knew Bo Kei was doing what is right. I really disliked Chai Gau in the beginning for his impatience and his tantrum but this scene made me respect him; one can never sacrifice one's integrity simply because for success. It take more than that and Chai Gau was amazing. So is Bit Ching even in the threat of death, he urged his mother to do the right thing. Whilst I dislike the 2 swindlers, I understand they too were forced so they're forgiven!

A fantastic episode. And yes, you can say this is Safe Guards, almost scene per scene, even dialogue except in Safe Guard this happened towards the end. And hey! We have the same woman as the grandma here and the mother there! But am I pissed this was copied from Safe Guards? Well in Safe Guards, Seung Chi was called stupid by again the same actor! In here again in a way Bo Kei was called stupid too. I love how Chai Gau basically talked sense into those who matters and he is right. Surely everyone knows who is good and who is bad? Of course it is strange how everybody readily listens to what Chai Gau has to say but I suppose Chai Gau can be very commanding and charismatic when he wants to be and Bo kei recognises those quality. Love the way how she looked at him tearfully when he began to berate her as she realised he is on her side! That she has a loyal friend. The dynamics of the relationship between Bo Kei and Chai Gau is very peculiar, almost like sister and brother, mother and son as I suspect Bo kei is at least a decade older than Chai Gau. Chai Gau should have been portrayed by a younger actor because he seems rash, impatient, the hallmark of a very young man BUT how can anyone replace the great Wayne Lai? I will be sorry to see that they both became lovers. I can't imagine they could be. It would seem strange.

Performances wise, excellent job by Sheren Tang. I love how silent she was when Chai Gau began to speak, like she was speechless, like wondering am I being betrayed here or something, the questioning eyes that turned to wonderment and gratefulness. That eyes that speaks volumes when not one word was uttered. Excellent job I will say!!

Wayne Lai too. So it is like his Safe Guards character, I will even say it is almost 99% same but this time the delivery is different. You can see Chai Gau is angry with Bo Kei but he also knew Bo Kei is sincere. The way he delivered those lines as he berated her, it was like a good friend scolding another friend, like for their own good. In Safe Guards, it is slightly different, hard to describe, like a brother scolding a brother. Can't explain it. But Wayne is totally fearless and fearsome as Chai Gau. I am still wondering why everyone listens to him though when in reality they wouldn't be.

Ron Ng is ok, one expression and he can rule the world. But his character is such a nice guy, righteous and noble. It is possible to like a character and dislike the actor but because I like Bit Ching so much, I shall say I am warming towards Ron Ng, only if he can act as well as how well his character is written, it would be better.

Kara Wai is good also and she infuriated me with her timidness but it shows how well she handled this character.

Susan Tse was decent. Look I don't think she is consistent enough. She makes me question whether she loves her husband. As she plots against Bo Kei, I wonder if it is for herself or for Bit Man, like is she just a jealous woman. And for a villain, she fails quite miserably. Her performance does not exude enough of craftiness. She can play fake person well, but not fake craftiness if you know what I mean. I just feel there is something inadequate with her whole "I am plotting and manipulating" face.

Kiki Sheung is good too but her problem is her character. I feel Pang Kiu is so underdeveloped, so badly written like her character is just pointless and stupid and bitter and angry. Other than that she has nothing to do at all. Like one bitter big old bully. What else?

I like the young actor who played Mo, his name is...Kelvin Leung. Who is Kelvin Leung?

Pierre Ngo surprisingly had little to do in this episode except to slap, snarl and just stand there is disbelief. Has no one ever bothered to punch Chai Gau as he speaks?

I like the flashback scenes where Stephen Wong handled his scene as young Cheung Kiu under pressure very well. Kidd is right; why can't the same actor play father and son as in Bit Ching? But I suppose not to confuse people?

The actor who portrays the young Pang Hang was good too except a bit overacting with the "I am a dangerous angry man" look. Looks more like unshaven bandit. Just found out his name; Oscar Leung.

As for the young Pang Kiu, I often seen her, often thought she is a talented actress doomed to roles of servants and Office OLs...Josephine Shum. Very good and quite resemble the older actor's temperament. Clearly these people coordinated their performances.

Overall a satisfying episode with some very satisfying acting, for most.

And yes, Safe Guards clone but is anything original anymore? At least this is TVB copying TVB and TVB is best at family conflict and whole lot of people accusing and defending and turning the tables against one another.

But if you must know, Safe Guards is still the better series in my opinion.

Ok, favourite line... very hard to choose and I wanted to choose the one where Chai Gau scolded Madam Cheung but I think this is the one that I feel has an impact in every sense...

"You could have become a comfortable 4th madam, why would you butt your head into the business? Surrender the keys and live a comfortable life! But noooooo... you still want to run the business! You are such a stupid woman to take on this responsibility, these keys are like shackles! You willingly want to cuff yourself to this stupid family! How stupid of you!"

- Chai Gau to Bo Kei, and I quite agree!