Get hunted or be a hunter! This week is the hunters’ special!

After the victory on the good side last week, it will be out of character for the evil side to lay low for too long. Yeon-chul is planning yet another attack that can end either according or against his wishes. He’s going all out this time, just like what he did back in the earlier episodes. While I’m continuously hoping that he would meet his demise soon and watch his so-called achievements crumble in front of his eyes, I still want to see him putting a grand plan that would lead to his downfall. The revenge would be sweeter if you could witness your enemies falling into the pit he dug himself, and I’m sure Seung-nyang, Wang Yoo, and Ta-hwan would like it so much. I do feel a twinge of guilt for Dangkise and Tanashiri…but good is destined to trample over evil at the end of the day.

Let the hunt begin!

Episode 32.

 

Seung-nyang went to see Yeon-chul while dissing the busybody Dangkise that she’s not there to meet him and briefly stared at Yoo. The old man wished to cut their meeting short and she intended to do the same, hence she went straight to the point, telling him her prediction about his plan: Yeon-chul would make the person who planned to attack the Prince said that she was the one who ordered the attack and Baek Ahn would be the accomplice. Then, he would punish them and used them to threaten the governors into disagreeing with the matter that would be discussed in the assembly. You’ve never thought she would be able to read your mind, did you? He wanted to know what she would do and Seung-nyang recalled Taltal’s recommendation, quoting a battle between Sima Yi and Kongming.

 

The old man asked her playfully, whether she’s ready for it, Seung-nyang retorted that she would get back at him in a way that would surprise him. He’s still confident with his plan, but Seung-nyang reminded him that he would never be able to shake Baek Ahn and her, and she would make the accusation fall on him back. After all, he wouldn’t want the reputation he built throughout the years to crumble by being accused of trying to harm his own grandson. Seung-nyang took her leave, but not before saying that she’s anticipating to see who would get caught. Yeon-chul actually looked affected with what she said!

 

Baek Ahn was waiting outside for her and he’s glad to hear that Yeon-chul was shaken with Seung-nyang’s words; however, Taltal, being the person who’s always worried, reminded them that they couldn’t make sure what Yeon-chul would do. Seung-nyang agreed but the only thing they could do were to wait. After she left, Baek Ahn praised Seung-nyang’s bravery to face the strong opponent without any fear. Meanwhile, Dangkise and Tapjahae believed that they shouldn’t believe Seung-nyang but Yeon-chul proceeded to ask Yoo’s opinion. Poor boys, you need to try harder in front of you daddy dearest! Yoo said that if it was him, he wouldn’t choose Lady Ki as his target.

Empress Dowager was furious to hear that Tanashiri had left the Cold Palace. The Empress was brought to her quarters after losing her consciousness and refused to eat anything although she had woke up. Tutor Jang was worried that she would end up starving herself to death, but Empress Dowager didn’t believe so. And the truth was…Tanashiri was busy filling her starving tummy with delicious food after being denied access to them (for what? One and a half episode? Heh). She’s putting up a show, ordering the poor Court Lady Seo and Yeon-hwa to wail as if she’s on her deathbed while she’s stuffing herself like a squirrel.

Suddenly, Empress Dowager arrived and they had to hide the food under the covers while Tanashiri lied down, acting like she’s sick (she’s still munching her food actually! HA). Empress Dowager was eager to send her back to the Cold Palace, even suggesting for a palanquin if the Empress couldn’t walk, but Tanashiri gave the excuse that she needed to protect her son from Empress Dowager herself. She’s purely acting on a motherly instinct while the Dowager viewed her as someone who took advantage of her own son. Huuuu. Their conversation was cut short when Dok-man informed them about the attacker finally admitting the person who ordered him to attack the Prince.

 

The governors were happily discussing about the Emperor when the guards came over and surrounded them. Dangkise gladly announced that one of the governors was the one who ordered the attack. The innocent governor was dragged away and the group met Seung-nyang, Baek Ahn, and Taltal on their way out. Although the governor kept pleading for Baek Ahn to save him, nothing could be done at that time. Seung-nyang reminded Dangkise that the Emperor wasn’t the old weak Emperor anymore and he won’t be shaken by this matter, but Dangkise was bold enough to suggest her to quit being a motivator for the Emperor.

 

Even one of the concubines got detained together with her father the governor and they were tortured in front of Yeon-chul and the rest  of the governors. Yeon-chul demanded to know who was his accomplice among the governors. The interrogation was interrupted when Ta-hwan arrived. although Yeon-chul had warned him not to get involved in the matter, Ta-hwan wanted it to be stopped. The old man refused to let the innocent ones go although they were pleading and Ta-hwan decided to admit that he was the one who ordered the attack. The Emperor couldn’t stand seeing the innocent people being wronged just like that, but Yeon-chul thought that it was Lady Ki’s teaching for him to win the sympathy votes from the governors. Heol~ Ta-hwan would still hold the assembly on the next day and the old man couldn’t care less with it.

 

It was late at night (complete with crows cawing which sounded so ominous) and the governors  all went to Yeon-chul’s house to bargain for the innocent governor’s life. The old man presented them with a box as his reply (I don’t have a good feeling about this…) and told them to see it for themselves. Just like what I thought, the box contained the head of the poor governor. They all screamed in surprise mixed with horror Yeon-chul and Co. grinned just like it was a comedy show. Blergh. He threatened them that there are nine of them left but there were hundreds of way for him to punish them. How about you yourself started thinking about the most severe punishment for you? Yeon-chul then reminded the governors to give it a good thought.

On the next day, Ta-hwan attended the assembly with no fear, although his confidence seemed to be waning a bit. Ah, Baek Ahn was still looking at him encouragingly and it makes me happy! Before they got started, Ta-hwan had something to say.

Ta-hwan: I would like to apologize to all of you. Honestly, I’m not a person with the ability  to sit on the Emperor’s position. Stupid and incompetent, a person with so many fears; I was a man who didn’t care about the problems of the citizens and all of you, the one that was too pitiful for words. But then, I don’t want to be a useless Emperor anymore. I don’t want to run away out of fear for the Chancellor. Although it’s a shameless thing for me to do, I’m asking for your loyalty to me. I won’t throw the chance away if you’re willing to give me one.  That’s why…please trust this person one more time.

Ah, ah, ah….someone please stop me from crying!!

 

The governors seemed to be taken aback but Yeon-chul urged the assembly to be carried on. When asked for those who was going to support the Emperor having the sole control over the decision making of the country (and controlling the Imperial seal), only Baek Ahn came forward. Awwwh. Empress Dowager heard about it and thought that it was all over as Yeon-chul was gloating that the governors were still supporting him. Seung-nyang dropped by the throne hall and thanked Yeon-chul on his way out. Huh? Even the old man thought she was losing her mind to be thanking him, but her words made sense when the governors were soon kneeling in front of Ta-hwan, asking for forgiveness since they couldn’t protect him.

Seung-nyang: Thanks to Chancellor, the governors are going to acknowledge his Imperial Majesty as the true Emperor. A lion would deliberately hold its cub on the edge of a cliff as if it’s going to drop its own child. Chancellor’s harshness has shaped his Imperial Majesty into a manly person he is right now.

Yeon-chul warned Seung-nyang that she’s marked by him from now on and he’s someone who won’t let it go easily. You sure bear grudges for a long time just like your children, right?

 

Ta-hwan stayed on his alone in the throne hall, sighing that he could only return to his old position as the puppet Emperor as a result of protecting the throne. Seung-nyang was there, as always, to encourage him. She assured him that he had gained more people on his side and Yeon-chul lost them although he got to keep his right, but this time, Ta-hwan was the true winner. So, he shouldn’t feel low at all! He promised to keep going until the end and thanked her. Gahhhh I like it when they exchanged heartwarming, encouraging smile!

 

Some time later, Tanashiri formally made her return to her quarters with new robes and shiny new (not to mention, bigger!) crown. The maids and concubines, led by Seung-nyang, congratulated her, but Tanashiri wasn’t too eager to see her around and ordered Dok-man to make some preparation for the afternoon meeting. Empress Dowager was angry to hear about Tanashiri trying to cause problem as soon as she came back from from the Cold Palace and appointed Seung-nyang to handle the meeting. She had the power to do so since the Empress’ seal was still in her possession, and Dok-man was to inform the maids that Seung-nyang’s words were her orders. Empress Dowager told Seung-nyang that she’s the Empress in the meeting and she should face the powerless Tanashiri without fear. Woahh imagine the amount of trust she has for Seung-nyang for the Dowager to assign her that role as her representative!

 

The meeting was about the upcoming hunting trip and Seung-nyang told the rest of the concubines to prepare for the event. The calm was soon replaced with a storm in the form of a furious Tanashiri, who barged into the hall and demanded to know why was Seung-nyang acting like an Empress. She ordered the maids to strip Seung-nyang off her robes but no one moved a muscle. Hehehehe. Seung-nyang then showed her who’s the one holding the power there as she ordered the people to turn around, and they followed her. Tanashiri demanded to know what was happening and Seung-nyang said that she’s acting on behalf of the person who held the Empress’ seal, and Tanashiri should leave before she ordered the maids to chase her out. Tanashiri walked out but as soon as they’re outside, she started laughing to her minions’ horror (They thought that she’s going crazy probably~) and she had decided to give Lady Ki the opportunity to enjoy her time as long as she’s still breathing.

 

She must had heard what Yeon-chul was planning for her to be in a good mood like that and the old man was later sitting with Yoo, inviting him to the hunting trip. I love that Yoo was so nonchalant about it (“Are you going to show me the tiger? I’ve caught quite a few before.” Hehehe!) but Yeon-chul was going to show him a bigger catch this time. Dangkise was also telling Byung-soo about the hunt and soon came to the highlight of the event: they were planning to get rid of both Ta-hwan and Lady Ki on the last day of the trip, and Byung-soo was nervous, thinking that they’re planning to commit a high treason. Dangkise stated that it was a mere hunt but their preys were those two. He offered high position to Byung-soo if the matter was handled successfully, and the greedy man soon found himself imagining all the glory he would get. Yeon-hwa was surprised to hear it but when Byung-soo started to count all the good things that would come (including making her his wife LOL), she looked rather pleased. Birds of a feather flock together~

 

Yoo got hold of the Eagle Group’s leader reply letter to Yeon-chul and realized that the man was not an easy rival, hence they couldn’t simply drag Yeon-chul down with the matter. Bi-soo was thinking of giving up since their opponent was not easy to be defeated and she knew when to give up. Yoo gave her a sword and challenged her for a fight, with him using a wooden sword. Even with a lesser percentage to win, Yoo managed to defeat her in the end. Bi-soo demanded to know why was he so keen into the matter, and Yoo said that giving up would be like him abandoning his own country. That left Bi-soo with something to ponder and she did look affected with his words. Awwww, why do I feel like giving her a hug?

 

It’s time for the hunting trip and Ta-hwan was testing his bow when Seung-nyang told him it’s time to leave. He told her to wait and fixed her clothes (guess he’s taking the role of a wife now LOL), saying that she should be good even in a hunting trip since she’s his concubine. Awwww these two! Stop playing with my heart! Tanashiri was so eager with the plan to get rid of Seung-nyang but suddenly, Ta-hwan approached her together with Seung-nyang, which made her plaster a fake smile across her face. He never thought that his Empress would join the trip but she reminded him who her father was. You’ve got some skills too, huh? And I can see Seung-nyang’s smirk right there!

 

The guards were preparing the hunting ground as the people started to arrive at the camp site. Jeombakyi was excited to hear that the prize money for the best catch was 1000 gold nyang and Moo-song encouraged Yoo to show his hunting skills. They were interrupted with Tanashiri’s presence, who acted like nothing happened and greeted Yoo. HA, look at Eunuch Bang and Moo-song giving her dirty looks! She congratulated him for his wedding and invited him to chat over tea (I’m dying laughing at Eunuch Bang’s face!!), but Yoo just walked away, ignoring her. Tanashiri was pissed off but Court Lady Seo thought that something must had happened back home.

 

While they were waiting for the Emperor to arrive, Eunuch Park took the chance to greet Yoo. Ahh~ Moo-song was glad to see him but Eunuch Bang, probably still bitter from his meeting with Seung-nyang, corrected them that he’s no longer an ‘Officer Park’ but an ‘Eunuch Park’. Jeombakyi was amazed that he looked younger as an eunuch but gladly refuse the offer to become one. Kekekekeke! Ta-hwan arrived with Seung-nyang beside him and she stole a glance towards Yoo; sadly, she had to pretend to be looking around after their eyes met for a split second. Ta-hwan officiated the beginning of the hunt and amidst the cheering, Seung-nyang took a look at Yoo, who had now looked away. sobs

 

 

They broke into small groups and Tanashiri showed her skills with the crossbow, bagging down a pheasant. Yoo’s group shot a boar but it ended up chasing after Eunuch Bang and Jeombakyi. Hahaha! Seung-nyang and Ta-hwan rode their horses with the eunuchs in tow andTa-hwan suggested that they had a race towards a tree. The one who lost had to grant the winner a wish. Seung-nyang said that she’d quit if he’s thinking of playing dirty like what he did back in Daechung Island, but Ta-hwan retorted that he’s not the old Ta-hwan anymore. As soon as Golta saw a deer, they begun their race, leaving those poor eunuchs behind running after them.

 

Ah, for a moment, it was just like back then on the island as they smiled, probably reminiscing their shared moments with each other. So many things have changed since that time… *sigh*

 

Dok-man was the person in charge for recording the catch and he teased the concubines for catching one small rabbit even when they’re in a group of three. Someone told them to make way and it was Yoo’s group, who had managed to catch the big boar. Eunuch Bang urged Dok-man to put the record faster as they smiled with content. Tanashiri was still confused on why Yoo changed into an unfriendly unlike the old him and Court Lady Seo broke the truth to her: he used to love Seung-nyang. Tanashiri thought that Seung-nyang might had caught his weakness, but she decided to use their past relationship to her advantage.

 

Thus, Tanashiri invited Yoo, Ta-hwan, and Seung-nyang to the most awkward dinner ever. Ta-hwan kept staring at the seemingly calm Seung-nyang while Tanashiri was more interested in Yoo’s reaction. She stated that they seemed to be uncomfortable but Ta-hwan dissed it almost instinctively, proceeding to pour Yoo a drink.Tanashiri did the same to Seung-nyang and accused that she didn’t drink because she’ afraid of saying wrong things when she’s drunk. Seung-nyang accepted the ‘challenge’ with confidence, saying that she had nothing to hide and urged Tanashiri to drink together with her. The women continued to drink cups after cups…and it started to look like a drinking game between them, with the guys sitting silently beside them.

 

Dangkise and Byung-soo were discussing about the place where they would kill their targets and Byung-soo led the guards there. Luckily, Yoo’s underlings saw the guards and decided to follow after them. Tanashiri was getting drunk and when Ta-hwan told her to stop drinking, she knew that he’s doing it out of concern not for her but for Lady Ki. She approached the sensitive subject that was Yoo’s marriage since she heard from her cousin about Yoo having another woman in Yuan. She asked Seung-nyang since she used to be Yoo’s subject and Seung-nyang looked so sad as she glanced towards Yoo. Yoo took the last word, saying that the woman was dead. He excused himself while Tanashiri and Ta-hwan both looked at Seung-nyang.

 

Seung-nyang was too drunk and she couldn’t even walk properly to the tent, so Ta-hwan offered himself to escort her. Yoo could only look at them with sadness in his eyes. Tanashiri definitely had the luck for that night as she got to witness Yoo’s gaze towards Seung-nyang. She questioned why Seung-nyang managed to catch the attention of both men and felt humiliated that Yoo had tricked her into believing that he was crushing on her (Blame your delusional self, girl!). Right now, the urge she had to kill him was more than that for Seung-nyang.

 

Ta-hwan brought Seung-nyang to hi tent and wait until she recovered from the effect of the drink. He told her not to be affect by Tanashiri’s drunk ramblings. Seung-nyang wanted to excuse herself but Ta-hwan asked her to stay there for the night. He wondered how long was she going to make him lonely and Seung-nyang tried to get up, but Ta-hwan pushed her onto the bed and he looked straight into her eyes.

“I want you.”

Slowly, he leaned in to kiss her…

**

Episode 33.

Ta-hwan closed his eyes as he leaned in closer to Seung-nyang, but soon he stopped right before their lips met (still, those eyes of his swoon).

Ta-hwan: I’ll wait..until the day when you’ll first embrace me. Even with you living by my side, I can’t help but to miss you.

Seung-nyang: Right now, Your Imperial Majesty should just concentrate on regaining your power.

Ta-hwan: You’re the one who made me like this. So, don’t make me wait for too long.

Seung-nyang excused herself and returned to her tent, and Eunuch Park noticed that she had something on her mind. She was clearly affected with Ta-hwan’s words, for her to admit that she’s starting to feel afraid. Although Eunuch Park thought that a strong person like her had nothing to be afraid of, Seung-nyang kept her feelings to herself, only letting out a deep sigh.

 

Tanashiri barged into Dangkise’s tent, lamenting at her brothers about Ta-hwan and Lady Ki spending the night together even when they’re out of the palace. Surely you’re not thinking that the Emperor would have chosen you instead of her, girl? She felt humiliated and couldn’t wait to get rid of Lady Ki. Dangkise assured her that it would be the last time for the couple to hurt her and told her the whole plan about their ‘hunt’: Yeon-chul had ordered for both Ta-hwan and his dearest concubine Lady Ki to be killed. The guards were preparing the traps for their grand preys while Eunuch Bang, Moo-song, and Jeombakyi were secretly spying on them, thinking that they were putting too much effort for the hunt. Are they going to ruin the traps? Dangkise told Tanashiri to leave the matter to them, but she insisted on joining the hunt since she wanted to witness Seung-nyang’s demise with her own eyes. We’ll see how it goes then…

 

 

On the next day, Seung-nyang greeted Ta-hwan and he suggested another match between them. She wondered what it would be since he lost to her for the horse racing, and Golta gave Ta-hwan side eyes for lying that he won. HAHAHA! The handsome guards started laughing and Ta-hwan started to fix Golta’s clothes, warning him to shut his mouth up. Kekekeke~ Anyway, Ta-hwan stressed that it would be a real match to see who would get the bigger catch and Seung-nyang’s up for the challenge! They went out and Seung-nyang saw a deer, but Ta-hwan ruined her opportunity when he shot a bad arrow, causing the animal to run away. HA, she’s pissed off with him! They decided to chase after it, causing the eunuchs to run after them again. I really pity these men.

 

Dangkise and Co. were already waiting for Ta-hwan and Seung-nyang to come their way and they got ready as those two approached the trap..but nothing happened. Phew! Dangkise was mad that the trap was not working (he even punched Byung-soo out of anger!) and the guards checked the trap. It turned out that the ropes were cut off and Jo-cham pulled them, lashing out his anger, but it caused two guards to fell into the trap with spikes and they got killed in an instant. Ooof. Dangkise sent the rest of the guards to check on other traps as Seung-nyang and Ta-hwan rode off, reaching a forked road. They decided to take different routes and agreed to meet there with their catch while Ta-hwan promised to show her his prey this time.

Yoo and his underlings were focused on the hunt but they soon reached a place where the guards were suspiciously hiding behind the bushes. The trio told Yoo about what they saw the night before and thought that the guards were going too far trying to win the competition. However, Yoo found it weird that the traps used were enough to kill humans and recalled Yeon-chul’s words to him. After assessing the situation, he realized that the guards’ targets were Ta-hwan and Seung-nyang. He sent Eunuch Bang to alert Baek Ahn regarding the matter and decided to follow after the guards.

 

Meanwhile, Seung-nyang got off her horse, sensing something around and took her bow. Aish, this is nerve wrecking! Unknown to her, Tanashiri and the guards were anticipating her presence there and waited until she’s right under the hanging spiked board. Argh! The guard pull thee ropes but the board didn’t fall on Seung-nyang. Phew! Tanashiri couldn’t contain her anger and shot an arrow herself towards Seung-nyang, but luckily, it was a miss (girl, you need more practice). Seung-nyang saw her and Tanashiri didn’t wait for too long to order the guards to get rid of the woman. The guards chased Seung-nyang across the forest and luckily (or not?), the other concubines who happened to be nearby saw the chase. They couldn’t do anything and thought that it’s better to alert the Emperor about the strange occurrence they just witnessed.

 

Seung-nyang knew that she couldn’t run away for any longer as the guards started to shoot arrows at her, hence she took the decision to get rid all of them. She shot them one by one with her arrows but soon realized that she had ran out of the arrows. Darn. There’s only one guard left and Seung-nyang had to make a plan fast! At the same time, Ta-hwan had caught a big boar and he’s confident that Seung-nyang would be surprised if she saw it. Awwwh. Golta also thought Ta-hwan would be the winner this time, but Eunuch Park was worried that Seung-nyang was running late. Suddenly, the concubines came by to tell him about the guards trying to kill Seung-nyang and Ta-hwan ran towards the place. Yoo was also heading there. Who would save Seung-nyang this time?

 

The said lady was still hiding behind a tree as the remaining guard approached her. Seung-nyang threw down her bow and drew her dagger. As soon as the guard shot an arrow, she threw the dagger right at his chest. The armour wasn’t that useful I guess, but…the practice Seung-nyang had when she was planning to kill Ta-hwan had became useful this time! She retrieved the dagger but another arrow was shot at her, this time grazing her face. Tanashiri appeared with her crossbow, acknowledging Seung-nyang’s skills. Seung-nyang smirked back at her.

 

Tanashiri aimed the bow at Seung-nyang, who asked her whether she’s really trying to kill her. The Empress admitted that she was planning to do so since there’s no witness around, but she won’t let her die easily, not before Seung-nyang faced her torture in front of her eyes.

Seung-nyang: Even if I die right at this moment, I have no regret at all. Do you know what the Emperor said when I was in his embrace every single night? He said that I’m this country’s true Empress.He even said this: “Tanashiri isn’t even a woman; she’s just an ornament inside the Inner court, nothing more than an empty shell”.

Those words were enough to make Tanashiri’s blood boil and she was trembling in anger. That was what Seung-nyang intended to do: she wanted Tanashiri to have a poor aim and proceeded to challenge her to shoot her. Nothing would change since Tanashiri won’t be able to have Ta-hwan’s heart forever. Tanashiri shot Seung-nyang but it’s another miss and she couldn’t stand it anymore: she ditched the crossbow and drew her dagger. Now this is getting interesting: a real cat fight? Don’t underestimate Seung-nyang, girl…she had lived thirteen years of her life like a man! Soon enough, Seung-nyang overpowered Tanashiri and even threw a punch on her face. Muahahahaha!

 

Seung-nyang approached her closely, returning her exact words before to her: with no eyewitness around, no one would know if she killed her. She wondered if she ought to end their war right there, causing Tanashiri to beg Seung-nyang to spare her life. Now you’re talking. Seung-nyang was getting angrier since Tanashiri thought her life was far more precious compared to Lady Park and the dead maids, thus she came to a decision: she would spare Tanashiri’s life but she vowed to make her world a living hell. Tanashiri was shaken to the core but she didn’t seem to learn anything. Gahhh. Yeon-chul had reached the campsite and he wasn’t happy to hear that his targets were still alive and wanted to go out there himself. The guards were a little late but Tanashiri ignored Yeon-hwa’s question about her bruised face; instead, she ran after the guards to witness Seung-nyang’s demise.

Seung-nyang wandered around the forest and approached another trap, where Byung-soo and the guards were spying on her. They were waiting for her to step on the rope but Seung-nyang stopped walking when she heard Ta-hwan’s voice calling for her. She answered him with relief and walked forward, kicking the rope in the process. Whoosh! The hanging net fell onto her and sent Ta-hwan running towards her. He tried to pull the net away but it was too late when he realized that he’s pulling another rope.

Drat.

He looked around and saw where the rope ended: a row of crossbows with arrows pointing towards them. Byung-soo was anticipating a success this time, but Ta-hwan was faster to protect Seung-nyang with his own body. The arrows didn’t hit them…

Save for one, right at Ta-hwan’s arm, where the armour didn’t cover.

Sheesh, that shiny armour was good for nothing.

 

He fell onto the ground but still conscious as the eunuchs were ready to protect them. Seung-nyang was getting worried for him but he assured her that it’s nothing for him as long as he could save her life (he even pulled the arrow out himself! ㅠㅠ). Byung-soo thought they might as well attack them openly and ordered the guards to attack them. Seung-nyang escorted Ta-hwan as the eunuchs blocked the guards but soon, more guards were coming. Red alert! Yoo had reached the place (where had you been dear??) and saw Seung-nyang dragging Ta-hwan away with the guards chasing after them. Even though Moo-song and Jeombakyi warned him against it, Yoo made his decision to face the guards. The guards were aware that Yoo was on Yeon-chul’s side and told him to make way for the chase, but Yoo challenged them to kill him before chasing after their targets. A fight ensued between Yoo’s side and the guards. Ohh can three men defeat all those guards??

 

Although they’re safe for now, Ta-hwan started to feel dizzy and his vision became blurry before falling on his knees. Seung-nyang knew that it was a poisoned arrow and tried to remove it with her own mouth although Ta-hwan tried to stop her out of concern for her safety. He’s too weak to block her and became weaker with each minute passed by. Yoo’s side was not having a good time either: they were outnumbered and Yoo was even stabbed in the stomach (NOOOOOOO!). He told Moo-song not to let any of the guards alive for the sake of Seung-nyang. They were surrounded by the guards and Tanashiri reached there, realizing that Yoo was a traitor. She tried to shoot him and he saw her, but Tanashiri couldn’t bring herself to kill him. Are you still crushing on him, girl? Suddenly, two of the guards were shot with arrows and look, Bi-soo and Jeokho, together with Eunuch Bang were there! Yeon-hwa thought it’s better for Tanashiri to leave and Yoo saw her running away, probably thinking why didn’t she kill him.

 

Seung-nyang tried to keep Ta-hwan conscious but the poison had taken its toll on his body, causing him to be grow weaker. The eunuchs caught up with them and they escorted Ta-hwan back to the camp. Yoo’s underlings took care of the guards and proceeded to tie up his wound. He could only think of Seung-nyang’s safety instead of his own body, even with his underlings chiding him for abandoning his own well-being. Bi-soo looked worried but I’m sure she had no clue about who was this Seung-nyang that they’re talking about.

 

 

It’s already dark and Byung-soo returned to face Yeon-chul together with the report of their failure to get rid of the Emperor and Lady Ki. They saw Ta-hwan’s group approaching them and the soldiers surrounded the Emperor, ready to strike. As usual, Yeon-chul took his own sweet time to ask about Ta-hwan’s health and assured him that he would be escorted to a very comfortable place soon (heaven?). Well, we ought to thank his tendency for long speech and laugh since Baek Ahn arrived to save the day. Long live Baek Ahn!! Yeon-chul and Baek Ahn argued for the right to escort Ta-hwan and they’re ready for another fight, but Seung-nyang warned the old man that he could be accused of treason if Ta-hwan happened to die under his care. The eunuchs tried to say that the Emperor was attacked but the baddies insisted that it was a mistake on the hunting ground (WHAT AN ABSURD EXCUSE). Yeon-chul gave up on the right since he wouldn’t want to be accused of treason. He ordered for the ground to be cleared of any evidence. Huh.

 

Ta-hwan was brought back to the palace and he was unconscious because of the poison. He kept coughing out the medicine and the physician couldn’t do anything. Seung-nyang also lost her consciousness because of the poison and she was worried upon hearing that Ta-hwan was still sick. She insisted on going to the Emperor’s quarters and happened to run into Yoo on her way there. Seung-nyang didn’t want to suspect Yoo of being involved with Yeon-chul’s treason, but Yoo refused to accept her concern or whatsoever. He was cold in front of her but deep inside, he didn’t want her to make her worried and chose to act like he’s okay, although he was in pain from the wound. Gaaaahhh drama, please spare me from this heartbreak!! (ㅠㅠ)

 

Seung-nyang arrived at the Emperor’s quarters and she looked so worried, seeing Ta-hwan still unable to swallow his medicine. She offered herself to take care of him and Empress Dowager entrusted Ta-hwan in her care. The Dowager started to focus on dealing with Yeon-chul regarding the treason and the others were well-prepared this time: Tutor Jang had contacted all the governors, Taltal had replaced the guards with their own men, and Baek Ahn vowed to take Yeon-chul’s life himself. Dok-man and Golta left Seung-nyang alone with Ta-hwan and she tried to feed him the medicine.

 

She pleaded him to take it to survive and decided to feed him with her own mouth. sobs She’s opening her heart for him, right? Ahhhh…she kept tearing up as she continued to do so. My heart!!! Ta-hwan, please wake up soon (ㅠㅠ)

 

Yeon-chul heard about Ta-hwan and he’s concocting yet another plan to escape the accusation. He wanted Yoo to help them and it seems like Tanashiri had not told anyone about what she saw on that day. Yoo told Eunuch Bang to inform Baek Ahn about the matter, but Tanashiri came to talk to him. Tanashiri’s excuse was that it’s not the time yet but challenged her to tell her family about the truth. She’s more interested in knowing why he saved Seung-nyang, and Yoo was only repaying the debt when Seung-nyang saved his life back on their trip to Yuan. Tanashiri didn’t seem to believe it, but she could only threaten to help her father this time; if he refused to do so, he would die on the same day as Lady Ki. This sounds familiar…

 

Dangkise went to meet Byung-soo and Jo-cham to break the news to them: they had to do the sacrifice this time in order to save them all. The plan was to put the blame of the revolt on the guards led by Byung-soo. Since it was the highest degree of treason to kill the Emperor, they were worried that they could end up sentenced to death, but Dangkise promised to save their lives. Byung-soo decided to put his trust in Dangkise and agreed to follow his order. Wahhh…I never thought you’re so loyal like this smirk Baek Ahn received the news about Yeon-chul’s plan to defy the accusation but they’re yet to know the details. Aish. Yeon-chul made his entrance to the throne hall and Seung-nyang was confused to see Yoo following behind the old man. She might be wondering why he was there (and I don’t have a good feeling about this). Yeon-chul denied the accusation of trying to kill the Emperor and Lady Ki. Seung-nyang and Seol-hwa both said that it was the guards who were there and Yeon-chul used this fact to turn the table, accusing the guards for the reason. Darn.

 

Byung-soo was brought in and he admitted that he planned the attack; however, his target was solely Seung-nyang and Ta-hwan was just the victim. Grrrrrrr. He said that he bore grudges towards Seung-nyang after he failed to make her his (LIES!!). Seung-nyang was enraged with the blatant lies and the governors refused to believe his words, but Dangkise chimed in, suggesting that they heard what Yoo was going to say since both Seung-nyang and Byung-soo used to work under him. Argh! All eyes were on Yoo, waiting for his reply.

And he admitted that Byung-soo was telling the truth.

OMG.

I was surprised too, Seung-nyang.

 

Ta-hwan regained his consciousness (finally!!!) and asked for Seung-nyang firsthand, but Golta’s expression hinted that something was up. Yeon-chul now had the upper hand after escaping the accusation but Tanashiri didn’t think it’s the end yet: Lady Ki and the eunuchs who were supposed to protect the Emperor had to be held responsibility for their failure to do so. NOOOOOOO! Even Yoo’s side was surprised at this turn of event and nothing could be done as it was the law (Booo!). The good side could only send Seung-nyang (who was dragged away by the guards) with worried glances while the evil gloated over their victory once again.

 

Seung-nyang stopped right in front of Yoo and I don’t like that accusing look in Seung-nyang’s eyes as she stared right into Yoo’s eyes.

**

Ladies and gentlemen, the thing that I was hoping not to happen in the nearest future has happened, in which Seung-nyang starts to misunderstand Yoo’s action. But then, this is a kdrama and misunderstandings are everywhere. Huhu. Let me wallow in my sadness just for a little longer then..

I’m pretty sure everyone was hoping that Yeon-chul got ousted and bombed by his own plan but it didn’t happen. HA, I didn’t watch the episode live but I resorted to reading the news during the broadcast and I was laughing at myself, thinking that Yeon-chul might turn into an immortal in the end, to everyone’s surprise! Nah, just joking. Looking at how things are shaping up, we might see these baddies for quite a while, probably reaching the 40th episode (or maybe beyond that). I found myself cringing when they got to escape the accusation (AGAIN!) but this time, it’s quite logic to me. There’s no proof to point out that Yeon-chul and his dearest children were the actual people behind the revolt, plus no one saw them nearby when the attack took place. It’s kind of a surprise when the old man suddenly got brilliant and kept the plan from Yoo, when he usually shares everything with his dearest cousin nephew-in-law. I might as well prepare myself for lots of hair-pulling and eye-rolling moments in the upcoming episodes.

Wang Yoo…can someone please give this man a big hug? Yeon Bi-soo, I know you want to do so No one on the good side is truly happy in this drama but nowadays I’m leaning towards Yoo. He’s truly a shadow warrior for Seung-nyang, protecting her without thinking of anything in return. Her safety is his top priority and he’s willing to do anything for her. Him acting like he’s completely over her is just to spare her from further heartbreak while he’s actually hurting inside. These two need to talk and explain everything in order to clear this misunderstanding. I would be satisfied even if the writers decide to push their meeting to pour their hearts out towards the end as long as they get to know the truth. I want them to be happy but I know that’s almost impossible, but at least give them the chance to tell each other what their real thoughts are.

As for Ta-hwan, Baby Emperor is stealing hearts left and right. The governors are all flocking to his side while Seung-nyang is opening her heart to him after witnessing his sacrifice. It might seem trivial but for someone like Seung-nyang, the bravery was what needed for Seung-nyang to develop another feeling towards Ta-hwan that was respect. I’ve came to realize that Seung-nyang might value respect more than romantic feelings. When she begins to look up to a person, then she will come to like and trust that person. It was like that for Wang Yoo and Taltal, although the latter is more likely on the matter of trust rather than developing romantic feelings. Ta-hwan, despite his childish behaviour, looked up to Seung-nyang and respected her, and by proving himself worthy of being her equal, that makes Seung-nyang see him in a new light. Although it’s not clear whether Seung-nyang will come to love him in the nearest time, she seems to care about him a lot…and it might be a matter of time before she return the affection. Patience is a virtue! Right, Baby Emperor?

Episode 34 preview+translation have been posted here.