People come and leave but the memories stay.
One of the signs a show is gearing towards the end is characters start to leave left and right. Death and separation are some of the reasons, but the people they left behind will never be the same again. I was too busy paying attention to Yeon-chul’s last moments and didn’t really bother about the other details but when I watched that scene again, my eyes couldn’t help but to focus on Ta-hwan. This young Emperor might have dreamed of that scene for countless times and it was indeed among the thing he looked forward to since he gained his courage to fight back. But then, his relieved face changed into that of astounded when the old man started spewing what sounded like ridiculous prattle of a traitor who’s about to die, but Ta-hwan’s expressions ranged from shocked, disgust, to fear, and in the end…relieved, as though it was apparent that Yeon-chul’s death had changed something in him. He would never be the same again, although the old man would not be around to boss him around like in the past. Same thing goes for Tanashiri: Ta-hwan’s lack of affection caused her to try to change his heart, to the point of committing murders to secure her position. The question is: will Ta-hwan continue to treat Lady Ki above everyone else or is he going to change his way of treating his consorts after learning his lesson the hard way?
Episode 38.
Back at the rock cave, the slaves had been searching for the said gold but nothing had been found so far. Byung-soo started to think that it was just a groundless rumour, yet Dangkise was still confident that they woud come across it soon. One of his underlings had been assigned to find out about Yeon-chul and he came back with a bad news: the Chancellor had been sentenced to death and the Emperor had his dead body exhibited to the public together with Tapjahae’s body. Dangkise was taken aback and he cried while calling for his father, apologizing for being unable to protect him. Poor guy (ㅠㅠ)
The bodies were exhibited in a procession with Ta-hwan, Lady Ki, and Empress Dowager leading the procession. The citizens were cursing and jeering at the traitors as Seung-nyang thought about her father.
Seung-nyang: Father, are you watching this right now? Those people who caused you to die a miserable death had turned into those lifeless corpses. This Yang-ie had relieved your grudge, so please rest in peace now…Father.
Yang-ie ya! *sobs*
Ta-hwan saw her wiping her tears and asked what was wrong but Seung-nyang chose to keep her grief to herself. The citizens knew about Lady Ki being the person behind the downfall of the traitors and sang praises for both her and the Emperor. Empress Dowager faded a little when she witnessed the scene as the realization dawned on her: Seung-nyang was the celebrated and unbeatable hero. Even Yoo’s underlings predicted that Seung-nyang would fill the empty Empress’ seat soon.
Tanashiri went ballistic upon hearing about what had happened to her father and her brother and she demanded to meet the Emperor. Ta-hwan appeared as if he was summoned and she asked him mockingly, whether he was satisfied to humiliate her family like that. He just looked at her with disappointment, realizing that she had not changed at all. Tanashiri remarked that she had changed and instead of hating him for killing off her family, she cursed him and thanked him for giving her the ‘honour’ to do so. She wasn’t afraid to hear that the poison would be sent to her soon and challenged Ta-hwan to tear off her limbs, but Ta-hwan only hoped that she would beg for forgiveness from the people she killed before she died. Tanashiri was only thinking of letting Maha know about her suffering so that he could avenge her death. Yeah, right.
Gifts were pouring in for Lady Ki after the victory and Empress Dowager grew uneasy over the acknowledgement Lady Ki got from the officials. Ohhhh I smell jealousy and fear brewing inside her! Seung-nyang’s chamber was filled with the gifts and the maids showed them to her one by one, but Seung-nyang decided to send them to the Imperial Treasury instead of keeping them for herself. Among those gifts was a box of ginseng sent by the Royal House of Goryeo, together with a secret letter for her.
Yoo also got a letter from his father, who had heard about the possibility of Lady Ki becoming the Empress of Yuan. His father advised him into helping Lady Ki to rise to the Empress’ seat since it would be a great help for their country. The maids weren’t that happy to see the secret letter since they were thinking that the King only noticed Lady Ki after she had became powerful while before this, the tribute women were ignored. Seung-nyang chose not to open the letter and kept it to be read later. Eunuch Bang and Moo-song thought that Yoo had offered enough help to Seung-nyang and it’s about time for him to stop doing so.
Jeombakyi barged into the room, bringing the news about Taltal searching through Yeon-chul’s office. Bi-soo was sure that they were looking for the information about the secret treasure and Yoo went to meet Baek Ahn, who was furious that he couldn’t find what he was looking for. Plus, they didn’t even know where Dangkise was at that moment. Baek Ahn was so confident that he would become the next Chancellor soon and reminded that Yoo had to continue working together with them even after he got back his throne, because Goryeo was still Yuan’s tributary state, after all. Heh, even Moo-song was pissed off to hear that.
Yoo’s underlings thought that Baek Ahn was no better than Yeon-chul and the old man had never ask such thing directly in front of him. They predicted that he would only get worse once he became the Chancellor, showing his true colours after they had won the fight and. They ran into Seung-nyang and Yoo took the chance to remind her not to trust Baek Ahn. No matter how he saw Seung-nyang as a rare gem, he was still a Mongol and the fact that she’s of Goryeo descent would come back to him. He also wished that she watched her steps in front of the governors since their eyes were on her and a small mistake would affect her. Seung-nyang was still confident that Baek Ahn would not betray her since he was the one who made it possible to come this far.
The governors were debating on whether Lady Ki would be on their side or not, since she was Baek Ahn’s adopted daughter. Lord Oh remarked that it was possible for a man to betray his own father, let alone an adopted daughter like Lady Ki , who didn’t share even a drop of blood with Baek Ahn. Lady Ki arrived at the meeting place with the intention to know the reason why the governors sent the gifts to her. I like how she already look like an Empress in front of them! The governors told her their wish to have her on their side since they felt threatened with Baek Ahn. They thought that if Baek Ahn became the Chancellor, the Emperor would soon forget them. Hence, they were thinking of putting Lord Oh as the Chancellor to maintain the governors’ influence. Lady Ki didn’t think that it was her place to decide since it was all up to Ta-hwan’s decision, but she reminded them that she didn’t want to see any of them betraying the Emperor. Ohhh scary.
Ta-hwan was troubled with the award list, pondering over it by himself. He wondered where Seung-nyang had went when she arrived at his quarters and showed her the list which he made himself (and his head was about to burst from working on it! Hehehehe). I can only understand Baek Ahn’s name there, listed as the Chancellor, but Seung-nyang thought that they had to give the highest position to Lord Oh and the governors to keep them on their side. Ta-hwan was also thinking the same thing but it was impossible to put all of them on the same position as Baek Ahn. Seung-nyang had an idea and she reshuffled the list. Ta-hwan praised her idea and told Seung-nyang that the person who deserved a reward the most was not on the list; that person was not Baek Ahn or the governors, but Seung-nyang herself, who paved the way for Ta-hwan to become a respected Emperor. He assured her that he would give her a big reward afterwards.
Empress Dowager arrived afterwards and the sight of Lady Ki beside Ta-hwan was not a good thing to her anymore. Remember those good old days when she thought Lady Ki was heaven sent to the Yuan court? I’m sure she’s thinking otherwise now. She put a forced smile in front of them but she almost lost it when she saw the award list. Her eyes were about to pop out when she took a look at the list and she was clearly dissatisfied to know that Lady Ki was the one who came out with the list. Tutor Jang was mad that they were a step too late, but Empress Dowager was looking forward to the ceremony since Baek Ahn’s reaction would be a sight worth to be seen. Rawr! I love the scheming Empress Dowager!!!
The day had arrived and Ta-hwan (in his new black robe!) was joined by the officials who had contributed to his plan of exterminating Yeon-chul’s people. Tutot Jang read the award list, starting with Baek Ahn, who was appointed as the new Great Chancellor. Cue surprised looks on the governors’ face who might be thinking that Lady Ki had decided not to side with them! But then, it was announced that Lord Oh would be the Grand Secretary, Lord Pu the Grand Tutor, and Lord Seol as the Grand Protector, which made them the Three Excellencies. Baek Ahn was extremely disappointed with the outcome and it was clearly written on his face! Wang Yoo was granted the freedom and he was free to leave at any time, following Royal House of Goryeo’s order.
Ta-hwan didn’t say anything and he only studied the expressions of people in front of him. Baek Ahn questions the Three Excellencies since it was abolished long time ago, but Ta-hwan decided to use it as his own way to reward his loyal retainers. Awwwh, Baek Ahn couldn’t object but he was frowning afterwards. Ta-hwan then announced that he’s going to choose a new Empress soon. Since Lady Ki was the main contributor to their success, he was thinking of putting her on that position, but Empress Dowager cut his words midway before he could tell them his plan. The Dowager thought that it was improper siince Tanashiri’s penalty was still undecided and although Ta-hwan insisted that he would order her execution soon, she thought that it won’t be too late to wait until the execution was carried out. Seung-nyang took the role of a peacemaker, supporting Empress Dowager’s suggestion. If not for Seung-nyang, I do think that Ta-hwan and Empress Dowager would start to argue in front of the whole court.
But then, Seung-nyang could sense that Empress Dowager was acting cold towards her; still, she nodded to Ta-hwan, assuring him that it was a right thing to do. Between Baek Ahn’s visible scowl, Empress Dowager’s hidden smirk, Ta-hwan’s furrowed brows, and Yoo’s silent stare, I’m sure they had started to plot against each other. How about forming new allies?
Baek Ahn was wondering the reason why Ta-hwan made that decision and his underling suggested that he went to the Emperor to hear his explanation, but Empress Dowager was faster to drop by his office. She disclosed the fact that the decision was not made by Ta-hwan, but it was all Lady Ki’s doing. Seung-nyang was explaining to Taltal that the Three Excellencies was not as powerful as the Chancellor, but Taltal knew that his uncle did not think so. I feel bad for Seung-nyang since she seemed to be thinking that Baek Ahn won’t think that she would betray him. She was sure that Baek Ahn won’t betray the Emperor just because of this matter but in case he misunderstood her intention, she left it to Taltal to explain it to his uncle. Ouch, Taltal’s face didn’t look too happy this time…he seemed to have no confidence to persuade his uncle…
It’s too late for an explanation since Baek Ahn was already sitting in front of Empress Dowager, stressing that Lady Ki would never betray him. The Dowager was brilliant to tell him about the governors who were ready to support Lady Ki to become the new Empress. She’s cunning but the Dowager had her way of playing with words. Knowing that Baek Ahn was a nationalist who lived for the dignity of their Mongol ancestors, the Dowager fed him with the possible things that would happen if Lady Ki sat on the throne as the Empress: Prince Ayu would become the Crown Prince, and how degrading it would be for them if their country would have an Emperor of Goryeo descent in the future? She thought that Baek Ahn would be the best person to prevent such thing from becoming a reality since he’s supposed to be the country’s protector. Wow, she’s one brilliant rival to be able to manipulate Baek Ahn’s thoughts!
Dok-man congratulated Eunuch Bang since Yoo had been restored to his original status, but the latter was more curious about Prince Maha. Eunuch Bang wanted to see Maha with the excuse that Yoo felt guilty for causing the young prince to be left behind alone. He went to Maha’s room and realized that the child resembled Yoo a lot and confirmed that he had the birthmark. Eunuch Bang was worried that Maha won’t be safe once Tanashiri died but he was at loss since he couldn’t do anything to save Yoo’s child. Poor child, he was innocent. *sobs*
Tanashiri was expecting Empress Dowager to come to the Cold Palace and she knelt in front of the Dowager once the latter arrived there. She pleaded for the Dowager to protect Maha since no one would be able to do so except her. The Dowager didn’t expect to hear such thing from the haughty deposed Empress (my heart fell a little when Tanashiri was addressed as ‘deposed Empress’), but Tanashiri was more than willing to die if only her son could stay alive. She continued to beg while crying her heart out without thinking of her so-called pride.
Baek Ahn’s mind had been poisoned by Empress Dowager since her words were logic: Lady Ki was the Emperor’s favourite and the governors’ pride, so it would be a matter of time before she wielded her power in the court. The Dowager heard that Baek Ahn had a pretty little niece, so what about he took this chance to become the Emperor’s uncle-in-law, then it would be easier for him to get rid of the Three Excellencies. He told his plan to Taltal, which was to make his niece the next Empress. Taltal thought that the seat belonged to Lady Ki, but Baek Ahn had already set his mind on his plan. Oh my, Taltal already looked troubled with his uncle’s sudden outburst. Beware of his future changes, dear!
It must be the execution day, because Tanashiri was waiting nervously in the Cold Palace before the eunuchs (led by a scary looking Dok-man) arrived to drag her out. Court Lady Seo and Yeon-hwa could only look at her helplessly as she was brought to the palace compound. The Imperial Concubines were smirking at her and the maids had the disgusted look in their eyes. Tanashiri, being a girl full of pride she was, challenged them to keep jeering at her. The poison was brought to her, but she threw it on the floor, demanding to see Ta-hwan.
And that man appeared, with several bowls of poison for her. Darn, Ta-hwan knew she won’t take it just like that. Tanashiri threw those bowls on the floor one by one although Ta-hwan threatened to force feed her with it, and she threw the bowl to Ta-hwan. She really had nothing to fear at this point! Ta-hwan didn’t do anything except staring at her dejectedly.
Tanashiri: Your Imperial Majesty had killed my father and my brother to avenge the late Emperor’s death. But then, why are you going to kill me?
Ta-hwan: Why I am going to kill you? Listen carefully. You’ve killed the pregnant Lady Park and the maids without any remorse, and that’s not the end. Your countless crimes would tear my mouth from saying them all, and I am too embarrassed to say them out loud!
Ta-hwan: Who made me like this? Don’t you know? From the beginning, you ignored me and won’t even look at my face. The one who turned me into this evil woman, it was you, Your Imperial Majesty!!
Tanashiri grabbed Ta-hwan’s collar, to the collective gasps of the spectators around them.
Tanashiri: And then, why am I the one who’s made the criminal? What did I do wrong, exactly? Why am I the only one who have to die?!
Ta-hwan pushed her away and the disappointment was written all over his face; he couldn’t believe that she refused to admit her crimes until the end. She demanded to know whether Maha would be his target next and the reason why she couldn’t bring herself to take the poison was because she felt wronged to die alone. Woah, she really thought that Ta-hwan should die along with her since he was guilty in her eyes! Lady Ki appeared, telling Tanashiri to shut up. That was just like a cue for the deposed Empress to put the blame on Lady Ki next, accusing her of influencing Ta-hwan and causing Maha to lose his Crown Prince’s seat. Seung-nyang suggested that Tanashiri was to be sentenced to death by hanging since killing her with poison would be too lenient compared to her crimes. Ta-hwan took a deep breath and ordered her to be executed just like what Seung-nyang said before taking his leave.
Tanashiri begged Seung-nyang to save her son (it’s kind of heartbreaking to see her thinking about Maha all the time when she’s about to die), but Seung-nyang was more interested to reveal the fact that she knew Maha was not her real son. Yup, scary. Seung-nyang vowed to let the whole world know about the truth and Tanashiri fell onto her knees, probably wondering how Lady Ki found out the truth she had been hiding all this while.
Later in the evening, Tanashiri was escorted out of the harem and the sight of Yoo turned her into a crying mess. She resented him for what he had done, regretting her foolish action for trusting him and giving him her heart. Although she would die soon, Tanashiri promised that she won’t forgive him and cursed him forever. Yoo told her to resent him to her heart’s content and he would accept all her curses. Tanashiri wished for him not to attend the execution since she didn’t want to show him her pitiful last moments. Tanashiri…did you really love him all this while? She took a last glance towards Yoo before walking away.
The citizens were gathered outside the palace to witness the public execution and Dangkise was also there, together with Byung-soo and Jo-cham. Dangkise was about to lose himself when Tanashiri wass dragged out, but Byung-soo warned him that they would die if he couldn’t control himself. The public was shouting for Yeon-chul’s daughter to be killed, while Dangkise could only look at his pitiful sister from afar.
Dangkise: My little sister, please forgive this weak brother of yours. I’m sorry. I’m sorry, my sister, Tanashiri.
Tanashiri had the noose put around her neck and she started to think about her family, feeling afraid and powerless to face her death alone. Seung-nyang took a look at the trembling Tanashiri as her mind wandered off, thinking about Lady Park.
Seung-nyang: Lady Park, are you watching this right now? My poor friends, my pitiful son Byul; it’s time for all of you to close your eyes in peace. You can let go of your grudges now.
Tanashiri’s eyes scanned the people in front of her and suddenly, she saw Dangkise among them. She was about to call out for him but the floor opened up, causing her to die in an instant. Dangkise witnessed her death helplessly as the others had the horrified looks on their faces. Seuung-nyang was calm, wiping off her tears after witnessing the whole thing in place of her dead friends.
People of the Inner Court returned to their usual routine and Lady Ki was having breakfast with the rest of the concubines. Lady Oh congratulated her in advance, calling her the Empress since the news was widely known to all of them. Lady Ki assured them that she had talked with the Emperor and he would raise their ranks soon. Her appointment as the Empress would mean that Ayu was the preferred candidate for the Crown Prince’s seat, and Seung-nyang vowed to protect her son with all her might, unlike what happened with Byul. The same Byul was in the Empress Dowager’s care right now and it’s clear that she was thinking of using Maha to prevent Ayu from becoming the heir to the throne. Maha’s real identity was not her biggest concern since she could see that Tanashiri’s eyes were full of motherly love for her son. Madam, if only you knew that Maha/Byul was a pure Goryeo blood…that would give you a heart attack.
Ta-hwan was planning to make an official announcement regarding the Empress and the Dowager thought that she should attend too. The rest of the officials were already at the throne hall (with Baek Ahn looking like a big grumpy bear there) and the governors were confident that no one would dare to oppose the decision to make Lady Ki the nation’s Empress. Ta-hwan thanked them for their support; however, Golta brought him a bad news: Empress Dowager was kneeling outside the hall in her undergarments. She was begging the Emperor to give up on the idea and Ta-hwan knew that it would turn out to be like this. He demanded to know the reason why she opposed Lady Ki’s appointment as the Empress since she knew it better than anyone else, how Lady Ki was his benefactor. Empress Dowager admitted that she’s aware about it, but she won’t let a Goryeo woman to become their country’s Empress. She refused to budge, and Seung-nyang witnessed the whole scene.
Ta-hwan assured Seung-nyang that he would put her on the Empress’ seat at any cost. Baek Ahn and Taltal went to meet them and Ta-hwan thought that Baek Ahn would have to persuade the Dowager into changing her heart. Taltal showed him a list of people who opposed Lady Ki’s appointment and the first name on the list was Baek Ahn the Chancellor. It came out as a surprise to Ta-hwan and Seung-nyang (but not to us) and he thought that Baek Ahn would support him since Lady Ki was his adopted daughter. His excuse? The Empresses before this mostly came from the Onggirat clan and he couldn’t simply change the tradition because of his personal feelings.
Seung-nyang wanted to know the reason she was deemed unfit for the position: was it because of her Goryeo origin, or Baek Ahn was planning from the start on getting rid of her after their success? Baek Ahn replied that Seung-nyang originally entered the palace to get rid of Yeon-chul and she had achieved everything she dreamed of, so for her to covet the Empress’ position was nothing but her greed. Baek Ahn suggested that she was to elevated to the Noble Consort rank since it would be the best solution for her. Ouch, his words were right, and Lady Ki couldn’t provide better argument, hence she agreed to follow his suggestion. But then, it was clear that she was thinking otherwise and she exchanged glance with Taltal, who had nothing to say over the matter.
Seung-nyang went back to her quarters and recalled Yoo’s warning about not giving Baek Ahn her complete trust. She read the letter from the Goryeo King as she gave it a thought, but Hong-dan went into the room to inform her about the new Empress candidate: that person had arrived! It does feel like a deja vu since the scene was just like the first time Ta-hwan met Tanashiri: Baek Ahn reminding his niece that she had to become the Empress and catch the Emperor’s attention. Taltal was so cranky the whole time, as if he’s wishing that he could disappear from that scene! Empress Dowager told Ta-hwan about the rumour she heard about Baek Ahn’s niece and they’re all good things.
Ta-hwan wasn’t interested at all but he didn’t ignore the girl completely; she bowed to him and introduced herself as Bayan (Im Joo-eun!!). Seung-nyang witnessed their first meeting from afar. The girl was just like the rumour said: beautiful and kind. She was glad to be able to meet the Emperor, but Ta-hwan informed her beforehand that he won’t pick any new Empress soon, so it’s better if she took her leave right now. However, Bayan was bold and brave enough to assure him that he would pick her as the Empress after he heard her thoughts. The new Empress is smart! After all, she came from the same family as Taltal, so she ought to inherit those genius genes in her, right?
Seung-nyang was informed that Baek Ahn had ordered for 300 tribute women to be sent from Goryeo. That alone was enough to tick her off and she decided to meet Wang Yoo. They met later on that night at the library and Seung-nyang started by telling him about the letter she received from Goryeo King, telling her to join forces with Yoo and put an end to Yuan’s influence over Goryeo. Yoo thought that she should not be troubled over the matter, but Seung-nyang already made up her mind.
Seung-nyang: Will you hold hands with me? I can never forget their expressions. I’ve been involved in this fight for the sake of my father, and from now on, for the sake of the Goryeo people inside this place, and my son’s sake…I will fight. Please make me the Empress. I will make my son the Emperor and rise to the highest position in this palace.
“Will you…hold hands with me?”
*
Episode 39.
Seung-nyang showed her reply to the letter sent from Goryeo and with that, Wang Yoo agreed to help her. He wanted to know what he would need to do and she was thinking of the getting her hands on the secret treasure of Yeon-chul, the same thing Yoo was searching for at that moment.
Eunuch Park noticed that Seung-nyang seemed troubled and assured her that she had made the best choice. Suddenly, Hong-dan informed her that Ta-hwan was waiting for her. Uh-oh! He was wondering where she went to in the middle of the night but she only told him that she was taking her midnight walk. Ta-hwan felt guilty because he couldn’t keep his promise to make her the Empress as soon as possible, but he was planning not to select anyone for the time being. Seung-nyang knew that they had no other choice but to make Baek Ahn’s niece the Empress since they had received his help; but then, she asked to be allowed to move into Heungdeokjeon, the quarters used by the secondary Empress (which would be deemed unfit for her Noble Consort rank) in order to protect Ayu. Ta-hwan didn’t question it and agreed to her request.
Bi-soo was strongly against the idea of helping Lady Ki since she couldn’t trust the concubine; a person who bore the Emperor’s son would betray them any time if it was for the sake of her son. Yoo was confident that Lady Ki would never do something like that but Bi-soo threatened to end their alliance if he decided to join forces with Lady Ki. His underlings urged Yoo to think about it again since Bi-soo would be a greater help to them compared to Seung-nyang and it would be a wasted effort since it was almost decided for Baek Ahn’s niece to become the Empress, but Yoo stated that it would be enough if Ayu could be made the Crown Prince. Jeombakyi was suddenly curious about what would happen to Maha then and the other two reminded him to stop talking. Whoops, that was close! How could I forget that Jeombakyi and Moo-song also knew about Maha?
Yoo went to the palace on the next day and suddenly, the prince’s ball rolled towards him. He saw Maha running towards the ball and held the boy in his arms. Awwwwwwh! His underlings were so nervous, afraid that it would be odd to be seen like that since the boy was a prince, but Yoo felt sorry for the little boy every time he saw Maha. That’s your son!! Please stop torturing me, show! Empress Dowager came over and remarked that Maha was well-behaved when he’s in Yoo’s arms. She tried to take Maha away, but the boy refused to move. The Dowager thought that he was craving for a father’s attention since Ta-hwan had never held the poor boy in his arms. She said that she took care of Maha since the boy had no one else. He’s the first son, after all. Maha looked so happy with Yoo and I’m melting over here. So adorable!!
Tanashiri’s maids of honour were still alive but they had been demoted to maids. I’m not used to see Court Lady Seo in maid’s clothes but she looks good in them! Hong-dan bullied them a little and Yeon-hwa chose to follow her orders instead of fighting back since they’re of lower rank now. Court Lady Seo found it hard to tolerate the humiliation but for the sake of Tanashiri, they had to wait for the chance to seek revenge for their pitiful Empress.
Lady Ki was in her chamber, holding Ayu in her arms. It was time for the little prince’s meal, but the food turned out to be poisoned. It’s the fastest way to incur the wrath of the protective mother because Seung-nyang immediately tried to make the maids confess to their crimes. Ta-hwan wanted to take over the matter but Seung-nyang persuaded him into leaving the matter to her. She had several suspects in mind and they’re no other than Court Lady Seo and Yeon-hwa. They were dragged to face the angry Seung-nyang, who was set to hear them confessing to their crime of poisoning Ayu’s food. Both of them looked clueless about the matter but she continued to torture them.
Empress Dowager went there and when she heard that Lady Ki couldn’t prove that they were the culprits, she ordered for Yeon-hwa and Court Lady Seo to be released. Seung-nyang questioned the reason why the Dowager spared those who used to serve Tanashiri, but the latter replied that a person of lower rank should not question the order of the person above her. Ohhh that’s cold. The Dowager wondered if Lady Ki would continue to think that everyone was as cruel as Yeon-chul’s family and reminded her that she wished to see peace in the Imperial Family, although Seung-nyang couldn’t stand the thought of the culprit who tried to harm her son getting away with the crime. Eunuch Park noted that even the Dowager was suspicious this time. Please don’t make her the culprit…she’s too classy for this!
Bayan underwent the Empress training and she was obedient and bright, unlike the hot-tempered Tanashiri. Empress Dowager looked at her favourably and thought that she was the best candidate. She tried to persuade Ta-hwan into choosing Bayan as the Empress (it seemed that they had several candidates for the Empress’ position), but he’s only interested in talking about Lady Ki. He was planning to make Lady Ki move into Heungdeokjeon right after she was elevated to the Noble Consort rank. Of course, this didn’t sit too well with the Dowager and she thought that Lady Ki forced Ta-hwan into agreeing to her request. Ta-hwan said that lady Ki had went through so many things because of him and his next sentence cracked me up.
Ta-hwan: Well..if Bayan who had done nothing can be the owner of the Empress’ quarters, what’s the reason for me not to open the door to Heungdeokjeon?
LOL nice one, Emperor! The Dowager was speechless and Ta-hwan added, “I’m not telling you this to get your permission. It’s something I’ve decided, so hopefully you’ll understand.” Heeee~
Seung-nyang had already planned everything before moving in to her new quarters: picking the maids from Goryeo, the bodyguards, and even making Hong-dan a Court Lady (finally! It’s about time!). Another thing he ordered Eunuch Park to do was to build a secret room inside the new quarters in order for her to carry out the work related to Yeon-chul’s secret treasure. The culprit who poisoned Ayu’s food was not caught yet, but Seung-nyang sincerely hoped that the person wasn’t Empress Dowager as she won’t forgive that person.
Court Lady Seo and Yeon-hwa were summoned to the Dowager’s quarters and they received a good news (for them, not for me): she’s planning to assign them as court ladies to the new Empress’ retinue. This came with a mission as the Dowager wanted them to become the new Empress’ most trusted people and not to let Bayan know that they were originally her minions. She’s already planting spies around the new Empress! Tutor Jang wondered if the Dowager was really planning to put Maha on the Crown Prince’s seat and her reason was simple: she couldn’t stand the sight of the half Goryeo blood Ayu becoming the heir. Plus, with Lady Ki being the person responsible for Maha’s maternal family’s death, it would be Maha’s right to avenge them. Yeah, Tanashiri would be singing praises for you in her grave, Empress Dowager. I hope Tutor Jang had realized that the Dowager was crazy for power. And can someone please take the poor Maha away? He’s been fed awful words continuously: first from Tanashiri and now from Empress Dowager!
Bayan was dressed in the formal Empress robe, ready for the coronation ceremony. She heard about Court Lady Seo and Yeon-hwa from the Dowager and she sincerely hoped that both of them would assist her lacking self. Everyone attended the ceremony, with the concubines frowning in their new robes and Empress Dowager smiling triumphantly to see Lady Ki’s expression. Bayan made her entrance and Hong-dan’s face when she saw evil minions getting back their court lady position said it all: I’m disappointed too! Seung-nyang was calm throughout the ceremony as Ta-hwan announced Bayan as their new Empress. Bayan smiled at her but she didn’t show any expression. Both Baek Ahn and Taltal glanced over at Lady Ki but only Taltal seemed to notice her true feelings (or it’s just my imagination).
Lady Ki made her official entrance to Heungdeokjeon as a Noble Consort (kwibi) and Hong-dan had been elevated to a Court Lady rank! The place seemed to be more impressive compared to the Empress’ quarters, though. She went to see the secret room and she’s satisfied with it. Eunuch Park gave her a letter sent by Yoo, who had went to the mountain near the place they thought to be the location of the secret treasure. He reminded her that if their secret was known to others, no one could save them. Seung-nyang was aware that Baek Ahn had found Yeon-chul’s record about the treasure and wanted to know where the record was kept.
It was the wedding night for Bayan and Ta-hwan. Bayan was still in her official robe, waiting for Ta-hwan so that he would be the one who took it off for her. Court Lady Seo was amazed with her patience and started to feed her the information about the Emperor’s favourite concubine Lady Ki. Bayan didn’t give it much thought and dismissed her servants. Meanwhile, Ta-hwan was getting drunk in his quarters and he’s planning to go to Seung-nyang instead of visiting his new Empress. Golta tried to persuade him into completing the ritual but Ta-hwan had never thought that he’s still unable to love freely although he’s the Emperor.
Empress Dowager arrived at his quarters, telling Ta-hwan that an Emperor won’t get everything he wanted; an Emperor was someone who would act according to the rules of the court while restraining himself and that person would be the one who followed the customs. That’s what made the Emperor a great person, she said. Ta-hwan laughed at the ridiculous statement, thinking that it was a description of a weak Emperor. He sensed that the Dowager was going up against him these days, but she had no choice if he wanted to keep Lady Ki safe inside the palace. Although Ta-hwan was furious to hear that, the Dowager had her point: Lady Ki could end up being kicked out of the palace for keeping the Emperor to herself. Thinking that the Emperor would cause Lady Ki to forget her place with his endless affection, she advised Ta-hwan to keep his position for the sake of Lady Ki and completed his wedding ritual with the Empress. Ahhhh…it’s the same thing all over again…
Seung-nyang received the news of Ta-hwan visiting Bayan and her face fell. Was she waiting for him? She looked at the sleeping Ayu in her arms and recalled the time when Ta-hwan came over to play with Ayu. He cooed at his son and Seung-nyang told him jokingly to stop teasing their son, afraid that the baby would get upset. Ta-hwan was jealous of her attention towards Ayu and stated that he’s more upset. Awwwwwww! He then asked Seung-nyang the million dollar question – who’s more precious to her: Ayu or him? She was brilliant to avoid answering the question by asking him back – who’s more precious to him: Ayu or him? Hehehe! Ta-hwan and Ayu looked at each other and the father only grinned at his son. He put Ayu on the bed and sat in front of Seung-nyang.
Ta-hwan: Yang-ie ya. Ummm…I’ve never felt happier than this before. Even while eating or taking a walk, I was afraid to think if all these things were just my dream.
Seung-nyang: It’s not a dream. I am here beside you, with Ayu.
Ta-hwan: That’s why…I’m terrified at times. I’m more afraid of waking up from this reality compared to my dream.
Seung-nyang: No such thing will happen in the future.
Ta-hwan: Regardless of this being a fantasy or a reality, waking up or not, for that reason…I’m going to make you the Empress. Our Ayu…I will make him the Crown Prince. And then, the three of us will live together happily until we die.
*sobs* So beautiful…(ㅠㅠ)
Back to the present, Seung-nyang assured her son that no one would be able to harm him and she herself would make him the nation’s Emperor. Yang-ie ya…are you afraid that Ta-hwan will abandon you?
The drunk Ta-hwan stumbled into the Empress’ chamber and continued to drink the wine. Bayan tried to pour the drink but he pushed her hand away.
Ta-hwan: Bayan…forgive me. For now and in the future, there will be times that I will have to seek forgiveness from you. This is the last time I apologize. There is nothing for you to do. Don’t you ever seek for my affection, Empress.
Bayan: Your Imperial Majesty, please call me by my name, Bayan. As your Empress, I can ask for that, right? That is enough for me. If you don’t want it, I won’t seek for your heart anymore.
Ta-hwan continued to drink and fell asleep on the chair as Bayan looked at him, while Seung-nyang was still awake, probably hoping for Ta-hwan to show his face even for a short while…
Ta-hwan woke up on the next day with Bayan staring at him and he was lying on the bed at the Empress’ quarters. She should had called his eunuchs to bring him back to his quarters but she didn’t want to do so. Bayan tried to stand up but her legs were stiff from sitting on the chair through the night (but then, was she just acting in front of him?). Ta-hwan helped her to sit while chiding her for being so clueless. He also helped her to take off her belt and her crown. Ta-hwan couldn’t help but to notice that the Empress’ quarters met another oddball for an owner: Tanashiri was extremely evil and Bayan was extremely kind. Bayan then wondered who would be deemed suitable to become the owner, but Ta-hwan didn’t answer her; instead, he was planning to have his breakfast at Lady Ki’s quarters. Bayan told him not to worry about her as the Emperor’s ladies should be friendly with each other and Lady Ki would be treated nicely by her as the Emperor’s favourite. Well…sometimes being too kind is a problem too..
Ta-hwan was so happy to see Seung-nyang when he arrived at her quarters. He must had thought that she was out to welcome him, but Seung-nyang was actually on her way to meet Taltal. Ouch. She had rejected the request to have breakfast with him and didn’t really pay attention to his excuse. She excused herself but Ta-hwan knew that her heart must be hurting. Ahhh..it’s not your fault, Baby Emperor! Don’t show me that sad face~(ㅠㅠ)
The search for clues about Yeon-chul’s secret treasure was still futile but Taltal was confident that they would find it among the old man’s record. Lady Ki arrived and he ordered for all the record books to be kept away. She saw them and showed sudden interest about the treasure, which was still hidden according to Taltal. He noticed her haggard face and asked whether she resented his uncle. Taltal is concerned for someone other than his uncle!!! She would be lying if she didn’t hate Baek Ahn since she felt like she was abandoned after being used, but Seung-nyang was there to ask for his help. She didn’t want the Empress to have any misunderstanding about her after hearing that Ta-hwan didn’t sleep with the Empress, so she hoped that Taltal would convey her words to Bayan. Taltal heard about Ayu being poisoned and he seemed to know who the culprit was…
Court Lady Seo continued to whisper bad things to Bayan, accusing Lady Ki of playing with Ta-hwan’s heart. Bayan didn’t want to hate Lady Ki because of mere rumour and Court Lady Seo thought that she was really kind. Taltal went to see her and Bayan was so happy to meet her cousin. She thought that he came by after hearing about her unsuccessful first night but Taltal was so serious, asking for him to address her comfortably.
Taltal: Although we’re distant cousins, I’ve heard about your childhood from uncle. Thus, I know you well, more than anyone else. Don’t you ever repeat that crazy act again. Sending poison to a young prince…are you even a human? I know that you’re more competitive and heartless compared to anyone else. You’re the person who put the remains of the birds in the cage when you feel bothered by their noise.
Bayan’s face changed from that of an innocent lady to a cold-blooded Empress, telling Taltal to stop talking informally to her. Yeah, that’s sort of creepy for an angel-like girl to be two-faced like this!
Bayan: Yes, I was the one who sent the poison Do you really think I’m that reckless to kill a person? I just wanted to show her just a little. I am the Empress of this nation. I didn’t come here to lose the Emperor to a lowly consort. Just wait and see how I will cast away that consort and steal the Emperor from her.
Taltal warned her that it’s not his place to get involved in the Inner Court matter, but he won’t stand still if her action would affect their clan. Darn, both of them were not joking at all! Bring it on, lady! Let’s see what Taltal will do if you’re to smear your uncle’s reputation!
I knew it, Seung-nyang definitely had something on her mind when he visited Taltal before! As soon as he left his office for the day, Hong-dan and Eunuch Park went into the office to steal Yeon-chul’s books. It was Seung-nyang’s order and she decided to have the contents copied before returning the books to the office. Hidden in one of the books was a map of Yeon-chul’s house but the house was already occupied by Baek Ahn, so it would be dangerous to be seen digging around in the house compound. Taltal told Baek Ahn about the progress of their search and suggested another way: they could try to meet the Eagle Group’s owner since that person would know about the location of the treasure. Baek Ahn was keen on finding the treasure, wishing that no one would be able to snatch it away from him.
Speaking about the Eagle Group, Dangkise was introduced to the representative of Eagle Group, which was no other than Bi-soo! I wonder if she’s still working with Yoo or not. She brought him to meet another man who seemed to be of higher rank than her in the group but that man only know the rough details: Yeon-chul used to bring his men to a mountain, possibly to hide the treasure. Bi-soo paid attention to their conversation and Dangkise was hoping that he could meet the owner of the group, who might have an idea about the exact location of the secret treasure. The owner won’t simply reveal his face to any person but that man would try to persuade him into meeting Dangkise. Bi-soo was worried that getting involved with Dangkise would mean big problem for their group since he’s basically Yuan’s Most Wanted Criminal at that moment but she also wanted to meet the owner. The man said that their owner was nearby but it’s not the time to meet him yet. Who are you, mystery man? Come out and reveal yourself!! The bad side was also having its own issues, with Byung-soo planning to stab Dangkise on his back and make the treasure his (in order to save his poor Yeon-hwa. HA). Dangkise was sure that Baek Ahn would be looking for the treasure too and ordered his henchman to find out the recent news from the palace.
Wang Yoo and Co. reached the said mountain, where the local kids were singing local song and kept pestering them. Jeokho/ Mak-saeng was still there with the slaves working at the rock cave and it seemed that they had stopped looking for the treasure for the time being. Dangkise had also left the place in a hurry, disappearing along with Byung-soo. Yoo realized that it was not an easy task and their conversation was interrupted by the singing kids again. Yoo was suddenly curious about the song but it was said to be a local song. I’m sure that song has a hidden meaning behind it!
Seung-nyang was working on finding the secret treasure and she predicted several locations where Yeon-chul might had hidden it. She knew that the old man won’t tell anyone about the location. But then, her work was interrupted when Hong-dan informed that Ta-hwan was on his way to her quarters. That was close! She managed to walk out of the secret room at the same time Ta-hwan arrived there. He demanded to know why she didn’t come when she was summoned, but Seung-nyang made an excuse that she wanted to be alone. He replied that he couldn’t stand living without her and she asked to be given more time to mend her heart.
Ta-hwan: Noble Consort, there’s one thing I want to ask from you: please do not make me angry.
It felt distant and odd to hear him adressing her with such formality 😦 Seung-nyang was keeping the matter about the treasure a secret from Ta-hwan since she didn’t want it to be declared as national asset; she’s planning on protecting it herself. She received the message from Yoo, asking to meet her at a temple outside the palace. Taltal was also thinking about the treasure, believing that Yeon-chul won’t keep it too far; instead, that old man would had put it within his reach but still hidden. He saw that the books’ position was switched, proving that someone had touched them. He realized that another person in the palace was also interested in finding the treasure.
Dangkise was still in the capital when he heard about Seung making a trip outside the palace. It was his chance to get rid of her and Seung-nyang was soon approached by the assassins. Dangkise revealed himself to Seung-nyang and he was impatient to avenge his family’s death. Seung-nyang was glad to see him too since it was her dream to deal with the person who killed her mother. That person was no other than Dangkise.
“Tonight, I will put my mother’s grudge to rest.”
*
Be very afraid, Dangkise!!
No preview for Episode 40.
Thanks for your recap! Anyway I cant say I like the new empress. It’s too fast, TN just left and all the evils (except DK and co) died just last week and now they have already put in new rivals for SN! Silly me wish they could give one happy episode for SN and our Manly Emperor :
I like the new episode… it’s so thrilling.. but I was quite disappointed by the emperor.. I think he should have fought better for SN… just because ED begged him not to make SN an empress…. how could he just let SN wait and make a promise… but as a viewer could see.. I think SN would still be the one to make that path for herself to be an empress and not the emperor :(….once again he will just be a supporting force and I thought he has changed to a much more dignified and strong willed man. what happened to that? I just wished he showed more force… so I am really sad…when everything he has been achieving now came from SN’s effort. to be honest, i feel like he is neglecting SN’s presence beside from the “gift” .. 😦 but oh well… I could already see.. he will get jealous again… and once the maha plot erupts… I am sure love for th is one of the last thing that will be in sn’s mind… he will once again get desperate for sn’s love..as it is obvious that it will ignite the love between wy and sn.. and after sn discovers what wy did for her.. it might lead to episode 1 when he will be insecure if sn loves him… I feel like th is creating his own problems frankly…
The new empress… I am actually not so scared about her.. we all know sn is smarter as she could plot something grand just out of nothing… but I like intellectual fights., I will wait and see….. 😦 I didn’t like wy’s character at first as it is too perfect but now.. I kinda see him in a new light trying his best to support sn even if he knows she married another man.. 😦
P.S.: why does ha ji won get prettier as episodes go by??… when TN was being hanged all I could see was her..so beautiful 😛
ED is his mother anyway, can’t blame TH if your ‘respected’ mother (who also contribute to the victory-> did not recieve any ‘gift’ yet-> being jelly :-)) kneeling in font of u and refused to get up until she got what she want (she is being a kid now :)) For the time being, TH &SN have to step back and plan for future-> I hope. Beside, TT aldready reminded SN it would be big trouble for TH &SN if BA go against TH & goveners now since BA got a most powerful army in his hand beside, DK is not death yet.
I’m not sure if in the drama the Empress Dowager is being portrayed as Emperor Tahwan’s mother but in real-life history she was actually his aunt, and after El Temur died she tried securing influence not by using Tanashiri’s son Maha but she had a young son of her own (Tahwan’s cousin) that she tried to install as Tahwan’s heir.
Actually, in my opinion TH is a soft character in this couple relationship &the whole drama-> if both TH&SN are strong& smart it would be troublesome. Imaging a fearful emperor who holds all power in his hand-> he’s not gonna love SN the way he was anymore…for that reason, I prefer to see the soft TH who said ” i could not being alive alone without you, I don’t care where your heart is, just stay by my side” Yet, we already have a lot of smart people like SN, TT, Wy, ED…We need someone like TH to balance out the drama. I still remember that SN is his bird mother. Up to now, his courage is just enough to stand by SN, since this series is about ‘Empress Ki’ battles. Hope the emperor is not change -> just loving SN is enough to give the fan heart warming moments after fearful battles b/t people who want power. ED is his mother anyway, I can’t blame TH if the ‘respected’ mother (who also contributed a lot to the victory-> did not recieve any ‘gift’ yet-> being jelly :-)) kneeling in font of TH and refusing to get up until she got what she want (she is being a kid now :)) For the time being, TH &SN have to step back and plan for future-> I hope. Beside, TT aldready reminded SN it would be big trouble for TH &SN if BA go against TH & goveners now since BA got a most powerful army in his hand beside, DK has no die yet.
yes you have a point that ED hasn’t gotten anything and is considered TH’s mother but.. if you think about it…ED could have been dead by now if it wasn’t for SN’s plan… he already said that SN is the major contributor for the whole death of ET clan… I think it will be just rightful.. that the first one to receive a new title was her …ED begged but it’s not like she will kill herself before everyone… it was a very sly move and everyone in the palace are on sn’s side… even the people… if he had more courage to fight for her… I am quite sure.. she will be an empress.. but that is my perspective.. If he was able to say big words to ET before he died in prison about killing everyone who will be like him.. he said he will rule… and make choices for his kingdom… what happened to the big words? :(… I know he has a soft character but I thought he had evolved already to a much more dignified man and I was quite taken aback that he easily just confronted sn and promised that he will make way for her… I don’t think he is actually there to balance out the story… he’s the only weak character and frankly all his plans failed…. and even if BA holds the military… i think it’s just a 50-50 situation… SN has the aid of the goryeo kingdom to help her become an empress and th with the governors + wy who was able to outsmart BA and Taltal before… I don’t think they will lose that easily and they will probably win… i ship th and sn now but I am kinda wavering… I used to defend the character so much.. I feel like wy deserves her more as he knows how to handle matters better.. and his sacrifice for sn even if she got married to another man.. .was kinda touching…
@ttdg
Yes in SN’s relationship with TH she handles him. She is in control. SN’s relationship with WY,they handled each other. WY was in control.
I still don’t get were people saw WY as perfect. I can list reasons he is not perfect.
I got your point. Yeah it would be much better if the writer make TH more manly to protect SN &Ayu-> that is the hope of all SH&TH shippers since she gonna end up with TH ( i believe so) b/c WY is fictional character (the real king at that time hated Empress ki since she actually used Yuan power & tried to take the throne from him & make her brother to be king of Gyoreo) And again base on history TH had to make Bayan as empress with BA’s support. TH later has to ask TT’s help to fight against BA in order to gain his power & make Ki as empress. Thus to follow history the writer has to make TH to follow ED’s plan-> I feel sad, but I understand that Kdrama writers can change the characters to make look great on show (TH &SN or WY were not good people base on history) but they still try to keep the whole picture as close to real history as posible. Again if BA try to kill TH now it gonna be easy since he got his army actually right in the capital to search ET house &treasure. The goveners scare of him the same way with ET before since his soilders are well trained. About Gyoreo army is far away… joining forces yet may be in the future but for now they need time to build the plan. beside if inside capital has trouble DK may have his chance to attack-> not good idea to eliminate BA right away. I really like WY but since he is fictional (mean not real) I can’t ship or root for him. Plus to find such a ideal man in this world -> another unreal thing. I don’t wanna offend anyone. It’s just things are unreal about him since begining. He just like being there to raise the rating… and I kinda concentrate on the main charaters in history…just my opinion though.
hahaha… but I don’t really see wy as being perfect but I see him better as someone more capable…I am not really fond of his character also… and the romance between him and sn came out of the blue… I think ep 39 will show what I mean about th.. he still couldn’t protect sn.. until now…ED just made threats on how SN will be banished and all he could do was to whine about it being forced once again to sleep with a woman … the next thing you know .. he got drunk and went to the empress chamber and slept.. while sn is with her baby waiting for him… I just wished there was something that made him more dependable rather than being just all talk …while everyone is plotting around the story… and he promised to make way for sn to be an empress.. he spent his time going back and forth with the empress and sn… acting cold with the empress.. then trying to go back to sn just to spend time… what’s his plan?….while sn is working to get the empress title by acquiring the treasure and being powerful in the inner court to fight off possessors.. it’s like she is the one making the road for herself… but i know it is the writer’s way of delivering the story… and take you for the history part 🙂 this is just my opinion also…it’s quite insightful how we deliver thoughts….
let’s say BA forces is in the capital and kills everyone including the governor and emperor… I am sure the other military force from the governors will march against the capital… and I doubt it would be that easy for BA to rule…as he will be a traitor… if he is in his proper state of mind, he wouldn’t do that…TH and SN could just elevate him to a higher position without him getting paranoid and this was the plan but he lacks tactics… and as people said TalTal has the brains but BA is action without thinking… Taltal is already hesitatnt in helping BA so he would probably help the emperor and oppose his uncle… just my two cents hahah 🙂
@ttdg
Hmm..there are men in the world somewhat like WY. They don’t exist much now. About the ratings? I don’t agree with what you said about WY bring there for the ratings. From what some viewers say he is hurting the show which I disagree with.
This show is showing all the real ones from history in a better light because in history they were different.
@flytothesky
The writers did not do a good job of doing this love triangle. It was so unbalanced. Good love triangles are balanced. I knew after episode 14 the writers favored SN & TH.
haha thanks for the comments I like it when I read others’ thougth. It feels more lively than when I watch he show alone. Yes, everyone has own insight and it’s nice to know our actors’ performances in differents espect of viewers. Anyway I still feel good in whatever the circumstances or endings gonna be. Up to now the show still keeps our attentions…Being happy with, angry with and sometime deppressed 🙂 wating for next epesode. Giving raised to all hard working people make it soooo enjoyable giving different emotions.
@ttdg
I felt that way before I found this blog. I agree about people having their own insights. I think the ended is going be something different. I will keep to myself for right now. Lets just say it would probably make both sides happy.
Now we are on the next level…… Well no matter how notoriously bad a family is, your heart will melt for them when you see them crying for the demise of one love ones…. I pity tangquise just like what Sn told him before he will cry blood because of losing his love ones. Remember his last scene with his father and how his brother tapjahe told him not to worry, he didnt know that it would be the last time for him to sed them alive. And Tanasiri, he saw how she died…… As expected yeub chull is right, only tahwan would not look at Lady ki as someone from goryeo.now the allies became opponent, and I can see when Taltal will become closer to Sn. I am glad to see WY and Sn tslking again, and hello still they don’t their son is just around. @flytothesky, I agree with you,even as Sn the male she is very pretty..how much more is she’s already an empress.
@pesojiwon
She only went to him because she needs him to help her. I still want WY to move on though. There is a saying: Theres other fish in the sea. They can work together but please give WY a new woman.
i’ve never seen TT so conflicted before in this episode more than the previous episodes with him in it. He is so torn between his loyalty to his uncle and to Lady Ki. TT must see that the one who betrayed the other first wasn’t Lady Ki (whom he claimed earlier would be the one to betray their clan), it was his uncle and his greed for power. TT probably can already see his uncle changing to El Temur before him, but denies it b/c he looks up to him and he’s family. I read TT’s character description before and it mentions that he betrays his uncle after falling for Lady Ki’s tricks. I wonder what that will be…but it seems to me that TT is leaning his loyalty towards Lady Ki before he gets “tricked” by her. Also, TT doesn’t seem pleased at all that his cousin (BA’s niece) is going to be entering the palace. On a side note, TT’s family is so good-looking! BA’s niece is sooooo pretty, but according to the preview, evil and smart… **shudder**…i’m anxious to know how Lady Ki is going to deal with her and I look forward to her working with WY. i actually like SN with both guys, TH and WY…i’m on both ships, but i highly favour TT with her, though i know it will never happen ;____________;
wait for me wait for me. i m also want to comment what i fell after reading this. he he. right now i m at my office n cant read these. 😛
@Lizzie
I like both couples but I am starting to get to the point were I am like give WY a new woman. If SN can have her moments with TH. Let WY have his moments with a new love.
yeah, true…i am tired of seeing WY looking so forlorn b/c of his forbidden love for SN. As for SN, it’s so hard to say who she really loves. I mean, at one point, i know she loves WY and that is why she was so happy to receive a proposal from him to be his queen, but then why did she have flashbacks of TH that led tears in her eyes? Then, when i think she let go of her love for WY and had given her heart to TH later on, but after learning that WY is on their side all along, she gives him this stare/look that shows that she still has feelings for him. I think she loves both guys but in her own way, in the way that she can while showing her love for justice at the same time. I think she wouldn’t have done what she had done (become a concubine to TH) if that wasn’t the case.
@Lizzie
I think she loves them both as well. Love is so complicated.
Yes WY being sad over SN needs to end soon. I want to see WY at least try to love another woman.
Taltal is is very wise but he knows fair justice. At times he opposed his uncle but when uncle insisted he just followed. This is where I can see that he respect Lady Ki’s wisdom. And Baek an started the to build up wall between him and Lady ki by ordering slaves from goryeo again…. Which upsets Lady ki
@ Lizzie, this time I think SN will face more obstacles than the fight with YC.
Due to her status of Goryeo descendant, Baek An, ED and the new empress are all plotting against her now…
Soon yeon wa shall be added to the imperial concubine/consort list (more bad guys >.< ), because I believe the ED will do everything in her means, by adding more concubine/consort on to her site, to stop SN from wielding for more power in the palace or becoming the empress.
The only way I can see how SN will become an empress is TH dismiss or depose the ED, after something major happen and bayan would have been banished along with BA…
OMG, I can not wait to see the rest of the series, I wonder if TT will ever have feelings or being affectionate toward SN, or it is all just admiring a great person with an amazing abilities to overcome hardships.
Regarding about the empress, I think Tanashiri looked better in the empress robe than bayan…
The new empress is beautiful and cool as a cucumber. Quite unlike TN was such a brat. She is going to be annoying to SN for sure. I just hope there are no oolala scenes between her and TH. Anyhoo, I hope her stay is brief.
Okay people. I know you all want happy moments but this is the royal palace. There is always trouble in the palace. It was cruel and not for the faint hearted. So I am not really concerned with with seeing happy moments in a palace. Politics is dirty. I am glad that Empress Ki is not just about romance but also about politics and how it is in the palace. Empress Ki would be boring if it was just about romance.
Agree with you now I can how sn and wy learned to set aside affection for the sake of Goryeo. I see less pain in Wy’s face and I can feel he will have a future with bi soo…if you can observe, he can feel bi soo’s concern, eunuch bang mentioned it in episode 36 or 37, he said going to war for the king, what a loyalty, she is somehow like SN when still posted as a man,remember that scene when the king was sick and sn decided to carry him by pulling his stretcher and wang yu noticed it.
But i still dont want to give up on wy sn, but i like it resting for now… Even i felt relief from never ending resentments lol… Been nagging a friend who is sn-th shipper for 2 weeks now hahaha.
@pesojiwon
Bi-Soo don’t have time for that. I get Bi-Soo though because she does not trust SN but she trust WY. I do think maybe she was concerned because she likes WY.
Don’t get me wrong I still like SN & WY as much I like SN & TH but there comes a time to let it go. If SN can have her moments with TH. WY should have his moment with a new love preferably Bi-Soo.
I saw a not favorable reaction from bisoo but Wang yu decided to help i guess this is not just about his love for sn but more on the interest of Goryo.. But with sn wy “holds hands” secretly, the more that i see conflict about them knowing maha’s real identity…. So looks like i wont see the possibility of their reunion (well i just mean knowing the parents and child not to become family anymore) in the next episodes, by the way 11 episodes to go….. The new empress she’s worst than tanasiri. And i guess more dangerous because she pretended to be kind when deep inside she’s boiling hatred to lady ki.
Mmmm..Can’t wait to see this episode. Now we are seeing people’s true colors. I knew it was coming about SN being Goryeon. They had a common enemy to deal with. Now that enemy is gone they have to deal with their issues with each other.
I am glad WY warned her about Bayan.
I hope he does help SN but I do feel WY’s men though. He has helped SN enough. I am waiting for Bi-Soo & WY to become a couple.
I see were fans are mad SN is meeting WY. I am fine with it since I like both couples. It was about business though. The thing is TH is insecure and it might cause problems. Ugh I can not stand insecure men. If the writers show TH as insecure they would send him back a few steps. I need TH stay mature consistently.
i don’t understand why Tal Tal doesn’t explain what Lady Ki told to Bayan. Why?? they have no more hour to talk about or why?? It was non sense. I’m agree with Bayan, he said to lady ki that she got what she wants and the rest is just her greed. I m angry to WY why he agree to help that ki. 😦
i don’t want to see next epi, it just waste my energy.
Kaw Take it easy, I resent Lady ki too, but you know, she’s also concerned about Goryeo people, Baek an orders for more slave from Goryeo that is why she asked Wang Yu’s help which is very critical because Taehan will not like the idea. For the interest of Goryeo Wang Yu and Seung Nyan must do something….
Ugh to this new Empress, she’s a Tana-wanna-be clone (already attempting murder to get what she wants) And even more Ugh to the writers for making TH suddenly be all wimpy again. (he should have told ED to go jump off a cliff or stay on that mat until her butt is numb)
Recycle of everything from the start, nothing new. So disappointing!
@tessieroo
The writers have been going back & forth with TH for a few episodes. 1minute he is being mature and the next minute he is back to being immature. It seem like it won’t get any better especially from episode one. Even though I see TH has matured, I also still see some of his immaturity.
I agree, he has no balls and he is so frustrating when he allow things to happen or he continues to listen to the dowager to pull the stunts shes pulling. I actually like him and his love for SN but I wish she could just take her 2 boys and run away from all the backstabbing and politics.
I hope he gets strong enough to stand by her, otherwise he will lose her love. I like WY because he would have loved her forever without any stupid concubines and other distractions. But sadly he doesn’t even exist in the true story.
LOL at Tana-wanna-be. Nice nickname for the poisonous new Empress!
@muchadoaboutlove
OT: you are from Malaysia right?
P.S. That is a good nickname for the new empress. Tana wanna-be or crazy psycho would be better. That chick poisoned Ayu. SN needs kill her now.
@MeMe
yep, I’m from Malaysia 😀
@muchadoaboutlove
I was just wondering. I remember you saying something about warm weather. I wish it was warm here. It is still cold here.
@tessie, calm down! The new Empress and new villains have to come out eventually or they’d rather end this drama as soon as ET clans were dead, blame the viewers who wanted ET clan to go down soon. I actually wish for TN to stay until the end, but let bygones be bygones.
I dont want to be a devil’s advocate, but based on recap above, ED’s argument actually made sense. TH sole devotion to SN is a sign of a weak Emperor and seems surreal to that era. It’s good we have a heroine like SN who’s out to support TH on his reign; but if SN were dark, TH is absolutely doomed. If behind a great man, there’s always a great woman; it’s also true, behind the downfall of a man, there’s also a woman, like Delilah for Samson, Cleopatra for Caesar, Helen of Troy for Paris, just to name a few epic ones. In a way, it’s set upon by the rules that the Emperor should not display favoritism. Poor TH, a prisoner of love!
About him getting drunk, I’d rather think of it as his mini-rebellious way of calming down his heart; it’s not like it’s a matter of national interest anyway when he gets drunk on a broad daylight. Since if TH is as sober, there’s no way other girls can get to his attention, as he always openly declares his love to SN. I just hope his heart won’t be swayed though by this cunning Empress.
So, let’s just chill out, let’s hope for better episodes in the coming few weeks.
@muchadoboutlove, thanks for the swift and savvy recap!
I agree with you, SN is Tae han’s everything, when they thought SN died he just can’t speak and wanted to die as well, if SN didn’t decide to be his concubine, he will not have the will to learn to read and to have courage to fight El temur…. SN is his strength which is also a weakness since he can’t seem to live without her…… will he get attracted with the new empress this time? let’s see
I do love SN & Tal Tal. I think with the help of Tal Tal and WY SN will become the Empress. The question is what episode will this happen in. They are taking forever making her the Empress.
I read that Bayan is against giving WY his throne back. Did I read that correctly?
I wonder who’s going to get the treasure? Quite similar situation when they were looking for the bloodbow. Temur’s dream about scum byung stole all his treasures are becoming true since the guy is already planning to betray tangqishi. And the ending seemed interesting, Tangqishi and Seung nyan encounter, i like the look of seung nyang’s eyes, she is so ready to kill Tangqishi
T_T
i cried for Tanashiri when she meet with Wang Yo. I hate Lady ki, what did she wants more from Wang Yo?? Greedy Ki.
@Meme … yeah i feel like they wasted joo jin mo’s acting abilities and chemistry with ha ji won… I actually liked them in episode 1 but when they got seperated and suddenly they were in love without proper sequencing of the story…I got disappointed.. all you could see is th-sn scenes… that’s why I started to ship them
@flytothesky
I agree. JJM is very good actor. I still don’t get why the writers said SN & WY are the OTP. Even a blind person can tell that SN & TH is the OTP. The writers favor SN & TH. I really hope the writers let WY move on.
Oh what you two said reminded me of my resentment in this drama…..and that OTP thing when sn th has longer exposure together. Now they are making lady ki jealouse of the new empress when she thought taehan slept with her… …. I just dont know which comes first, sn th has lots of shippers so the writers molded the story to please the shippers, or is it the writers that made the chemistry that attracts audiences to ship the two? I still love Episode 1, jjm and hjw both very adorable during their first meeting and very admirable in that crazy archery match….
Btw what does OTP stand for?
One True Pairing 🙂
@hiphop
@muchadoaboutlove
That is what OTP means. One True Pairing. I had to learn that watching K dramas. Coming from American TV there is nothing such as OTP because American TV shows couples come and go. There might be a main couple but they split and get back together so much.
@pesojiwon
SN & TH has a lot of shippers because they were together more. They had better scenes and they were allowed to develop more. There chemistry was on display a lot more. Both couples have chemistry but it seems like the writers did not want to show SN & WY’s chemistry. What I mean the writers were more liberal with SN & TH whereas with SN & WY they were more conservative.
Well, it’s possible for the OTP to shift as the drama proceeded. However, we have to consider that there is a lot of misunderstandings yet to be cleared between WY and SN. Somewhere down the road, SN will accomplish all she’s set to do. This whole thing started because of her revenge against those who wronged her, but once she’s accomplished all that, we will see the complete picture.
In my opinion, SN will realize that she sacrificed her love for WY for revenge in the end. Finding out Byul was alive all this time will be another painful reminder. This is probably the only way it makes sense for WY-SN to be OTP at this point in time since, in a poetic sense, both had the sacrifice something important (each other) for the greater and common good. It’s possible that SN-TH are the end game pairing, but the intended pairing had always been WY-SN. I think this is also why SN cried during the coronation. It appeared that SN and WY were still in love with each other, I mean just look at the way they were looking at each other. It’s supposed to be a happy moment for SN, yet we get crocodile tears. I think it makes much more logical sense than any other reason. Remember, what viewers are watching is, retrospectively, the rise of Empress Ki and also what she had to do in order to get there. I think it’s much more predictable for a WY-SN or SN-TH pairing, so the writers might not have intended for that. Instead, it is much more interesting to see how SN, WY, and TH are connected. It is without a doubt SN loves TH, but she ALSO loves WY.
To sum it up, WY will end up the tragic hero who will only have SN’s heart. SN will gain everything but at the same time lose someone/something precious to her. TH will have the woman he loves, but will always question SN’s sincerity.
Reblogged this on queenbelle.
Havent been reading your recaps in awhile due to studies/ been sufficing with live streaming racaps instead -.-; anywho i gotta comment on SN and TT’s relationship. KT with her upbringing > TN at the lowest being spoiled/kid of ET.
[is there a character limit] sorry if i’m reposting this but i’m only seeing 3 lines from what i wrote:
Havent been reading your recaps in awhile due to studies/ been sufficing with live streaming racaps instead -.-; anywho i gotta comment on SN and TT’s relationship. KT with her upbringing > TN at the lowest being spoiled/kid of ET.
“3 so mysterious~ if only writer’s can pursue this relationship more. 😉 I find it funny that KT (as in Soompi forums/Bayan/ new empress) did it for a scare tactic but if only she knew SN’s history. TT is so right in warning his cousin- the last time someone hurt her child SN vowed vengeance on epic proportions~~ and look what happened to them ;p what was that saying– hell haths no fury like a mother’s wrath –? XD
IF BA’s told TT about the sociopath tendencies of his cousin, why did BA ever worried about the safety if his niece? I’m pretty sure she could’ve fooled and outwitted TN easily. Well it’s obvious on levels of individual scheming capacity, it’s SN at the top with her own merit and skills”
^ that’s the part between ‘relationship.’ and ‘KT’, I guessed the >/< pulled off a coding error.
By the way Taltal is getting more and more admirable. Hope he wont perish in this drama
I knew there’s something fishy about the funny-looking empress (just because I don’t like her taking SN’s position). I’m sure this Bayan will be a pain in the ass in the following episodes. I hope SN is far smarter than her. Otherwise, SN will be doomed and Bayan might as well turn Ta Hwan’s interest to her, with SN being “cold” at the moment.
If there’s any doubt that SY does not love TH, episode 39 proves that SY has TH in her heart.How can you explain her jealousy and cold treatment the day after. I also believe that WY should move on.I don’t believe that even when Maha’s identity will be expose that SY and WY will rekindle their love.It’s already in the past and SY is more than ever determined to be the empress in order to help Goryeo and to keep her son, Ayu safe and be the crown prince.I still believe that not revealing Maha,s identity would be for the best. How can SY be the Yuan empress if the secret will be revealed publicly. Now that we got our wish for SY to show her jealousy in order to test if she loves TH, we’re now afraid that they’ll be separated.SY and TH will overcome this obstacle .Hoping that SY will not keep TH in the dark about what she is trying to accomplish.Fighting Empress KI. I really loved HJW acting in this drama.She has shown all ranged of emotions through this drama.
Long bout of hate for that chap who resorts to marriage (WY) and short span of hate for him who kills the father (TH) . she loved TW. Greedy Ki.
Thanks a lot
Okay, am I the only one who can’t wait for SY to find out that the new empress Bayan tried to poison Ayu? Home girl is playing with fire and its only a matter of time before she gets burned. Actually once SY gets a whiff of her wiles (meaning, acting like she did when Tal Tal confronted her and the fake ass smile melted double quick) she’s gonna know who did it and then it’s on and poppin.
I’m only hoping that the Emperor doesn’t fall for one second into this crack whores fakeness. It would be the greatest disappointment to me. He also needs to step back from ED.
Remember the first episode? I want everyone to consider that it might have a different meaning than what we all assumed. Think about it, when the emperor mentions that lady Ki saved WY life that may not have been a strained lovers face but a face of secret betrayal and anger, he might be thinking that SY should be the one thanking him on bended knee for saving her cause we can see that he’s helping her now. When SY crys it might be for betraying him and feeling horrible about it. For the sake of her son She may do this because her son means more to her than any man could.
My prediction looks like it’s starting to bare fruit. My theory is that they’re not letting Byuls identity out for a rekindled family situation when SY disappears but only if her coronation comes somewhere around episode 48. To satisfy both ships, this could also be the reason WY has not moved on. JJMs PR said that in future he will make ladies hearts race. This could be for that tribe girl or SY.
I think it would be ideal if she had a great marriage with the emperor, he dies, she puts her son on the thrown and has to disappear for a while but gets amnesia while traveling, preferably her because WY will have their son by then and can no longer become king of koryo for extreme reasons beyond fixing and he stumbles across her and takes her in grudgingly and when she can’t put up with his crap anymore he breaks down and forgives her and they live the rest of there days a family with Byul, who is obviously older now. Amnesia because SY would not abandon Ayu knowingly.
I’m shipping the Emperor and SY but I can see this happening.
Though it’s interesting, but would it look forced-fed that in order for SN to be w/ WY she had to have an amnesia or out-of-her normal state of mind? It could be but quite pitiful if she’ll end-up returning to WY that way.
Tanishiri will be missed. At least I had a love hate relationship with her and she was kinda funny and crazy. This new chick just makes me straight hate her along with Bayan and Empress Dowager. Now that’s what you call backstabbing.
The last conversation between SN and TH was translated differently by Soompi poster, TH: “Gwibi, don’t make me angry” and he walks off. It seemed to me like a threat. Maybe TH thinks SN is witholding her affections and giving it to someone else, WY?
Thanks for the correction ^^;
I think he feels like being abandoned by SN and thinks she’s purposely putting some distance between them when she’s actually busy with the treasure. TH doesn’t seem to have a clue that she’s working with WY, so it’s pretty early for him to start suspecting her. That’s just my take on the scene 🙂
Ah, I havent seen it, but I think TH is letting SN know that he’s still the Emperor. Even if SN is jealous or disappointed, she cant display those snobbish attitude or maybe disrespect, and TH senses SN is hiding something as she’s distant.
@teawater
@muchadoaboutlove
@Kristine Marie
I saw this coming though. Since their common enemy is gone they have to deal with their issues with each other. It sort of reminds me of Queen SeonDeok after Mushil died they had to with their issues with each other and that did not end well.
About SN working with WY. I understand why she is doing it but I am glad it is just about business. TH is jealous and very insecure when he finds out I fear for WY the most because TH is itching to kill him. I know one thing for sure Bayan is a snake who needs his head cut off.