Episode 28
Mr. Jang. Inform the king of our decision.
I will, sir.
You cannot do that.
In the name of our dept. ,
we impeach the council.
How dare you challenge our authority!
You are the ones challenging our department.
What?
You used your titles and influence to accumulate personal riches,
and have even gone low enough to conspire with the ministers.
We will no longer tolerate your atrocities.
How dare you!
This impeachment is void.
Mr. Kim! We are your superiors! This is no place for you!
This is no place for YOU! I suggest you all go home.
Men!
Make sure you beat him well!
Arrest the leader and disperse them!
Stand your ground!
I thought you took pride in your jobs as the king's men.
Why have you become the council's puppets?
Disperse the rioters!
Think!
If you want to keep your honor, join us and our great cause.
Sir, you must get out of here.
Captain, escort them out of here.
Come on, you should go.
I declare today's council invalid!
We disrupted their meeting. But this is just the beginning.
If we stand strong together, we can reform our department.
- He declared it invalid? - Yes, sir.
What did the king do?
He received the report, then went to see Queen Junghee.
The low-ranking eunuchs revolted. Why didn't you send any soldiers?
It's not a revolt.
It's a reform.
So you knew about this?
Yes.
I came here to calm you both down.
Your Majesty.
We must preserve order.
This reform might spread.
I told the palace guards to strengthen patrol.
The eunuchs will not take over the palace, so don't worry.
I guess I'll have to trust you.
I've never felt so insulted before.
I can't believe they impeached us.
This is so embarrassing.
I know.
What'll you do, Mr. Noh?
I want to grind them all to death.
Arrest and execute all the leaders.
Lord Jo will pay for this with his life.
But if you execute them all, everything will come to a standstill.
So you'll let them get away with this?!
No, I just...
Father, this isn't a good time.
Why not?
Most of the eunuchs are with them. And the king is ignoring this incident.
If we move now, we might get into trouble.
So what's your plan?
We must wait, then catch them off-guard.
Disrupting their meeting is not enough.
It will get tougher. They will try to break you all down.
I know that too. But I will not give up on our cause.
Chuh-sun.
Your grandfather has been around for decades.
You must never let your guard down.
I believe we have nothing to fear if we are upright.
The captains called for Mr. Kim.
We want to end this soon. So we'll accept some of your requests.
Tell us what you want.
We demand all you captains resign.
No way!
Then who will take our place?
You people, when you know next to nothing?
We mustn't accept such a demand.
Of course not.
- You're right. - It's out of the question.
You heard them. What do you say?
Then apologize for your atrocities and present your riches to our treasury.
Then we won't demand your resignations.
Tell us what else.
Before the end of this month, tell the king that Lord Jo is innocent.
That's all?
Drop all charges against Mr. Doh and release him.
We'll discuss with the seniors and decide which request we'll accept.
Go back to work and fulfill your duties until we do.
Geum-pyo. Don't blame those who did this to you.
I won't forgive them.
Oh well.
Your parents abandoned you. No wonder you hate the world.
And you failed to protect your master.
No wonder you hate yourself.
But loyalty and duty mean nothing.
Fathers kill sons, and vice versa, just to survive...
We told them our demands.
Let's wait until they get back to us.
They know...
we're serious. They'll give in.
Yeah, after all, we're doing this for the right reasons.
Let's go.
You should join us.
Why should we fight each other?
Yes.
We'll accept you if you want to join.
Forget it.
We'll see who wins.
This reform isn't about winning.
I'm sure you'll understand one day.
I'm glad things are settling down.
But it's not over yet.
The royals are still very concerned.
Chuh-sun will do fine.
Your Highness.
Can I go visit someone today?
I guess you deserve a break.
Oh dear. The great Mr. Noh running away from some boys.
Poor you.
You should be worried too.
What do you mean?
The eunuchs have the king's backing.
What?
If this reform succeeds, the officials that the king appointed...
will stand up against you for reform.
If you don't want that to happen, you must help me.
Only then can you survive yourself.
What did Minister Han say?
He'll help Mr. Noh.
He has no other choice.
And Chuh-sun.
When will you kill him?
If Minister Han can oppose the king, then I can kill Chi-gyum and Chuh-sun.
You think they'll accept our demands?
You can break a single switch easily, but not hundreds of them tied together.
We're all weak, but as long as we stand together,
we can accomplish what we want.
Yeah, let's stand together.
I want in too.
- Sure, Gil-dong. - Join us.
I believe we will win.
I'm worried the revolt will upset everyone else.
Make sure your ladies and maids don't get excited.
We will.
Have some tea.
Your Highness.
I don't understand why the king...
won't punish them.
They want to do away with corrupt practices.
I'm sure the king knows their intentions.
My father says this might spread.
I fear for the king's authority.
That mustn't happen.
I believe a wise king must always try to right what's wrong.
I'm sure the king knows what to do.
Your Highness.
Queen Junghee is worried this might spread.
You shouldn't have said that in her presence.
Unlike you, I have no political backing at all.
I'm sorry for not knowing what's going on.
That's not what I meant.
I know.
I'll watch what I say from now on.
Thanks for reminding me.
I'm so sorry.
Do you remember the man in your dream?
No, but he was wearing the Head of Palace Guards' uniform.
Is he my husband?
I don't know.
But he had the look of death.
What?
Then my husband is dead?
You lost your memory in 1 4 5 7.
That was the year King Danjong tried to regain power.
If I'm right, you had something to do with that revolt.
Sir. Chi-gyum did all that you told him to do for the past 30 years.
He regrets his actions.
Please forgive your son.
For the past 30 years, I thought our relationship went beyond loyalty.
But Chi-gyum betrayed me.
I won't be visiting him. I don't want to see you again either.
Sir...
Mr. Noh...
won't forgive Lord Jo.
Isn't that what you wished for?
What?
The sooner he dies, the sooner you can get remarried.
How dare you. How can you say that when I'm still his wife?
I'm on your side here. If Lord Jo loses his standing,
you'll become a wretch who stuck with her impotent husband for nothing.
Shut it!
This will change your life for the better.
A very lethal poison.
It's up to you now.
You decide whether to live your own life, or ruin it for good.
Goodbye, ma'am.
Why are you asking about that?
Who told you about the revolt?
Was my husband involved in the revolt?
Only you can tell me the truth.
Did he get into trouble? Did he?
Can you handle the truth?
Even if I can't, I still have to know.
I must know. Please tell me.
Your husband, Ja-myung...
passed away.
He died trying to head the revolt.
Are you OK?
Why...
Why... did you hide it from me?
Why didn't you tell me?
You'd been waiting for 2 0 years.
I couldn't disappoint you.
I just couldn't tell you...
that your husband had died a traitor.
I didn't want you to know.
Forgive me.
I have lost the will to live now.
You must be strong, for your child.
You think my child is still alive?
Yes. Don't worry.
I promise.
I'll look for your child for as long as I live.
What are you doing?
You're having fun with my husband around my house.
What a witch.
You got the wrong idea.
You've been disowned and disgraced and you still want to fool around?
When I, your wife, am begging for your sake?
How could you do this to me?
I hate you. I hate you!
Honey.
I'm sorry. I got you in trouble.
I'll talk to her. Get back to the palace.
You got us wrong. We didn't do anything.
I got you wrong? You think I'm blind now, do you?
I saw you holding her hand with my own two eyes.
Is she that special? Enough to make me so upset?
Honey.
I will never forget what I saw today.
My lady.
The Head Court Lady called for you.
I called you here to remind you to keep a tight rein on the maids.
Lower-ranking eunuchs...
demanding their captains resign...
What nonsense.
I'm afraid the maids might do the same.
This might just get out of control.
We must not get sucked into it.
Be careful to keep your distance.
Wrongdoings must be corrected, not covered up.
What?
If we know of any corrupt traditions, we must get rid of them ourselves.
So you really are Lord Jo's lover.
What did you say?
Why else would you defend him?
How can you believe that rumor?
That's enough.
Lady Oh.
You're saying that because you're new here.
But the rest of us entered the palace as young girls.
We lived our lives to serve.
Rules must be obeyed, so do as I say.
But...
Your disagreeing with us won't do you or your mistress any good.
Remember that.
Why do you look so gloomy? Did you hear some bad news?
It's nothing.
The Head Court Lady yelled at her.
Beodeul.
What do you mean, she yelled at her?
She just told us not to get involved with the eunuchs' revolt.
The Head Court Lady said she'd throw out anyone who joined their cause.
She said that?
Yes.
She said Chuh-sun's being disloyal by causing such turmoil.
She'll beat anyone who supports their revolt.
Call the Head Court Lady and Ladies Jang and Hong immediately.
Head Court Lady.
Why did you threaten the court ladies and maids?
I just told them to remember their place and guard against pointless revolts.
You're afraid the reform will spread and reveal your corruption as well?
You work with the eunuchs to serve the royals.
You should be supporting them, not trying to alienate them.
You're asking for a beating.
We court ladies serve your seniors.
You have no right to treat us this way.
What?
You should apologize, not wield your authority!
You want to get kicked out, do you?
I will kick any one of you out if you dare insult or taunt me again!
I've never been so insulted in my life.
She thinks she alone can control us.
She knows nothing about how we work.
Royal Lady Um would like to see you.
It's nothing much. Just some pocket money.
Thank you.
A lot is going on right now.
Make sure you keep the maids under control.
We will.
Wasn't that a bit too much?
They know all that goes on.
The queen lost their favor. She alienated herself.
They'll be worth more than an army.
Can you prove Lord Jo's innocence within the set time?
The seniors said they would send you a report proving his innocence.
I gave my word.
I'll be belittled if I go back on it.
So I'll keep my word.
If something goes wrong, Lord Jo and you will have to die.
Trust me.
I will reform my department and pave the way for your reform.
The drinks are on me. Enjoy.
What's wrong?
Right, you need company.
Girls, pour the gentlemen a drink.
Yes, sir.
You're all impotent, but you need to get married.
It pays to be honest.
But you'll never afford a house with your salary.
Of course, Chuh-sun won't have to worry about that.
Side with me and I'll make sure you get all you need.
So, what do you say?
Chuh-sun.
What is it?
Be careful. The court ladies aren't impressed with you.
Here, a letter from the queen.
See you.
What did she have to say?
She just said hello.
What's that?
It's nothing.
Thanks for saving me.
I didn't get to thank you earlier.
It's OK. Do what you think is right.
That's what I like about you.
Chuh-sun.
I'm proud of you for trying to reform your department.
But I'm also worried.
Always remember I care about you.
So look after yourself.
What's wrong?
Were you reading a love letter or something?
No, sir.
You're drunk.
Yes, I am.
Sorry, but I think your reform has failed.
What do you mean?
Bad timing.
You should've gone on with it. But you gave them time to recover.
But then, who cares?
Life is but a dream...
A man must be able to die for a cause.
You must regain what honor we've lost,
and fight to bring back what they took from us.
Got that?
Yes...
Now shout after me.
We demand your apology!
Apologize!
Give back what you took from us!
Give it back!
- Louder! - What are you doing?
We'll go to the Dept. of Eunuchs and demand an apology.
And we'll get back what they took.
It's a waste of time.
You think they'll care about these kids?
Then what?
We need food and firewood if we're to last this winter.
We'll get by. I'm sure Wolhwa will help us out again.
You always rely on others.
Mr. Choi.
Hello, Chuh-sun.
How have you been?
The silk goes over there.
Put the rice in the storeroom.
Where did you get all this?
I heard Han-soo took all you had.
We all chipped in to help you.
The old shaman taught you well.
Thank you.
We owe you so much.
Don't cry in front of your pupils.
You're all one big family!
Remember what your seniors did for you!
- Alright?! - Yes, sir!
Thanks so much.
Mother.
I heard of the commotion.
Why are you leading it?
I'm doing what I think is right.
It will end well, so don't worry.
Hi, Chun-dong.
Hello. How are you doing?
I'm fine. Don't worry.
Why did you do that?
I just had to do something.
You should be lying in bed.
I wanted some fresh air.
The cold wind will hinder your healing. Get back inside right now.
You're acting like you're my wife.
What?
OK, I'll go inside.
What's so funny?
I thought you feared nothing, but to see my mother overpower you...
Your mother...
scares me more than anything.
What?
It'll be bitter, but drink every drop.
Medicine that you make is like honey to me.
I won't leave a single drop.
Gosh, it's sweet.
Do we really get to see the king?
Yes. We get to serve him...
from a close distance.
Do we really get to eat all we want?
Yeah. We also get to make sure...
the king has all he needs, as well as clean up the palace.
We also relay the king's messages.
And we chat to him and comfort him too.
We're his friends, as well as subjects.
People point and make fun of us,
but we do a very important job.
We care for the king.
Take pride in the job you are given,
and learn and work hard.
You'll all do just fine as long as you're loyal to the king.
We'll remember that.
Your Majesty.
Court officials are petitioning that you dismiss Mr. Kim for starting the revolt.
I told you to stay out of it.
Why are you complaining?
It's not us, Your Majesty.
It's the younger men.
Such as who?
Mr. Yoon, the queen's brother.
What?
Your Majesty.
They're in charge of mere trifling jobs.
We should put them back in their places.
Even the people are complaining.
Send your soldiers to arrest and punish them.
Also, hold Lord Jo responsible and strip him of his title.
Please, Your Majesty.
If all goes well, I will reward you greatly.
If it's to help you, sir...
I will do anything.
You're modest as well.
Thank you for thinking so highly of me.
What?
What was he doing, petitioning the king?
I think the ministers put him up to it.
Your Majesty, it's me.
Come in.
What are those?
Petitions asking for you to punish the eunuchs.
What? Even more?
The ministers are petitioning the king to dismiss Lord Jo and punish us all.
What will you do?
We can't wait for the seniors' response forever.
We still have time. Let's wait a few more days.
There are rumors that Han-soo bribed some eunuchs to side with him.
What? He stooped that low?
Let's call a meeting tonight.
We can't afford to lose any support.
If this gets out of hand,
your authority will take a blow.
She's right, Your Majesty.
Dismiss Lord Jo and put an end to it.
The court ladies and maids might join them.
Worse could happen if someone attacks you at a time like this.
I agree with her.
I know how loyal Lord Jo is.
But we can't let this continue.
Your Majesty. You must do something.
Give me some time to think.
The ministers, even the royals are petitioning for their punishment.
The king won't be able to hold back any longer.
So we won't have to give up our riches?
You don't want to, do you?
Of course not.
You had no intention of making us do that?
If we accept their requests, they'll demand even more next time.
I don't think they will just sit and watch.
I'll take care of it, trust me.
You have our trust.
Mr. Kim is waiting for you.
What are you doing in enemy territory?
Mr. Jung.
Why haven't you gotten back to us?
There's still time. Why are you so agitated?
If you don't accept our terms, things will get even worse.
You've learned to threaten people too?
You're taking after your father.
Don't worry, you'll hear from us tomorrow.
Come on up.
Your music tugs at my heartstrings.
I've lived longer than you. I have many regrets.
You must be busy. Why are you here?
I heard you didn't come to work today.
I won't go until the commotion is over.
How can I deal with it all alone?
My life is in your hands. Everything is up to you now.
Chuh-sun.
Would you choose life or death?
Would you live and have regrets, or die with no regrets?
I have no idea what I would do.
A friend of mine chose death.
We fought for the same cause, but I chose to live.
I want you to survive too.
But I don't want you to have regrets like me.
I've been looking everywhere for you.
Queen Yoon called for you.
I'd like to talk to him in private.
Sure, Your Highness.
The ministers aren't happy about the reform.
And it's upsetting the king.
I know that too.
Don't worry, it will end in a few days.
Did you read my letter?
Yes.
My heart will break if something bad happens to you.
I guess this is how you must've felt when I was troubled.
I hope you know how I feel.
I wonder why he isn't coming.
I'm worried too.
Where the heck is Mr. Kim?
He'll be here. Let's wait a bit more.
Is it true the captains paid him off?
What?
I heard they promised him a promotion.
He wouldn't. He's not like that.
Those rumors are just blatant lies!
He's not like that.
Someone's trying to break us up.
Let's not get carried away.
Where is he anyway?!
This meeting's over anyway.
Let's go.
Wait. He'll be here soon. Come back!
Here they are. Arrest them all!
Yes, sir.
Gil-dong, tell Chuh-sun what happened.
Yes, sir.
What is it?
Captain Jung's men attacked us.
What?
That's him. Arrest him!
Gil-dong, run away.
No, I won't.
Go!
Kill him.
No!
Gil-dong.
Over there!
Go after them!
Gil-dong!
The end of the month is near. What will you do now?
I bribed some men and beat up some too. They'll lose will to stand together.
What is Chi-gyum doing?
He doesn't even come to work now.
Getting rid of Chuh-sun is easy, as long as he stays out of it.
But you mustn't let your guard down.
I won't.
Gil-dong.
You died for a cause... so young...
I promise.
Your death...
won't ever...
be in vain.
Today is the deadline that the king gave Lord Jo.
Soon he'll be dead, as well as Chuh-sun.
It'll all be over.
But why are they so quiet?
They know they don't stand a chance.
But they're just TOO quiet.
Don't worry, it's over now.
Sir, the eunuchs brought in a hearse.
What? A hearse?
You brought that in here? Are you insane?!
I guess I can't have anything at all
I bet all I had, yet I'm still alone
Perhaps I have to wait even longer
Or perhaps we just weren't meant to be
I fear life even more than death
I can't run away, I can't even hide
I pray at night, alone under the moon
I wish it could all end right now