Original subtitles

BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY

ROYAL KITCHEN

[Gil-geum] I have never seen anything like this before in my life, miss.

Uh, what exactly is this thing?

I will be using this for the third round.

This is going to be for the soup.

I'll explain. This pot is heated from the bottom,

and it traps the steam inside from escaping out the top of the chamber,

which allows the pressure to increase.

[Gil-geum] I think I get it.

It's just... I do not understand why you are talking about the soup

even before we've prepared for round one.

I've done a few of these competitions,

and the final meal should always be prepared long in advance to win.

Everyone will do well in the first and second rounds.

But when the third round comes, they'll all get exhausted and be out of ideas.

And that is why we should show our strengths in that moment.

So our strategy to win is to go in reverse-preparation order.

Are we not meant to do a soup dish with ginseng for the third round though?

Ginseng eel soup, ginseng loach soup, ginseng short rib soup.

We should make it a nourishing dish,

so I don't understand why we need a pot like this.

-We have cauldrons right here. -[inhales sharply]

I think that the soup that could win this whole competition for us

is ogolgye samgyetang.

-"Ogolgye samgyetang"? -"Ogolgye samgye tongue"?

What's "samgye tongue" exactly?

Are you wanting to cook three chickens in it?

"San ge." That's live crab.

-So I guess it's a type of seafood soup. -Ah!

-Oh, very good. -[Gil-geum] Oh, sounds good.

[Ji-young] It's just a black chicken soup.

I guess there was no samgyetang soup in this era.

Samgyetang. It's a soup where you stuff medicinal herbs and ginseng

inside the chicken before you simmer it thoroughly to cook through.

Ugh, as if the pressure cooker wasn't enough,

now we're cutting open a chicken and stuffing it,

just to make a soup dish?

I am sure that they will end up overcooked and soggy by the time the chicken is done.

If you put things inside, you do not know soup very well.

You're not wrong.

All the ingredients have different cooking durations.

So, that's why this soup must be made especially with the utmost care,

-along with the power of science to win. -With care?

"Sci-ns"?

But first, we must obtain this pressure cooker to cook the chicken.

Oh, I suppose this is the first step of care that you are talking about, right?

After that, to get rid of the raw meat smell,

we'll wash the chicken in jijangsu for its healing qualities.

It's the second stage of care, is that correct? Mmm.

The last step to do is to take ten different kinds of herbal ingredients,

bellflower root, lady bell, jujube, milk vetch, dendropanax,

red ginseng that's at least six years old, and deer antler,

to make the broth to boil together.

-How much further care is necessary? -Chief Royal Cook,

uh, this is the last step of care, isn't that right?

It's only complete the moment you put your whole heart in the dish.

[sighs]

I think we can just use the cast iron cauldron.

To tenderize this cut of the wild, rough chicken, we'll need to replicate

over ten hours of simmering in just one hour,

in order for everything to be cooked.

PRESSURE COOKER

[Ji-young] This pot is absolutely necessary to win.

[Min] I've never heard of such a thing.

-But what happens if we can't obtain it? -Cook Min,

stop blabbering and be realistic. Where the hell would we find that?

-We'll build our own. -Cook Yeon!

Please try and make sense, will you?

Who on earth could we get to create this here?

We're relying on you for this competition anyway, so I'll let the other things go,

but we're not inventors who can just build this out of thin air.

It won't be easy to make,

but with this exact pot, we can achieve a depth of flavor unlike anything you know.

This pot, it will work?

Yeah.

And if what I remember is right...

there is one person in Joseon who'd be alive,

who can make this for us.

COURSE N° 7 DONGNAE PAJEON ON A RAINY DAY

FIRST ROUND DISH

[no audible dialogue]

CHICKEN

[Ji-young] No, this isn't it. It's wrong.

[Gil-geum] What is this strange-looking thing? Hmm?

[blowing]

Whoa.

PUMPKIN RICE SYRUP

VINEGAR

-[in Chinese] Give me this. -[in English] Okay.

[sizzling]

-Here, try it. This is chili powder. -[Gil-geum] Chili powder?

[coughing]

-Miss, you know I don't like spice! -[coughs]

And this is gochujang.

We're going to mix these two to make seasoning and prepare braised short ribs.

[cooks gasping]

[no audible dialogue]

THIRD ROUND DISH

This kind of chicken meat is tough, so it takes a long time to cook.

And the taste will diminish if you over cook it.

-It's not right for a competition. -And that's why

we need to use this pressure cooker to win the competition.

In this pressure cooker, water will boil up to 120 degrees Celsius.

It will cook so thoroughly that you will be able to eat every single thing.

The meat, bone and all.

[Gil-geum] All right, so how exactly do you make it then?

[sighs] It's really...

Hang on.

[gasps]

[Maeng] What's wrong?

How strange.

It's nothing.

[sighs]

She almost saw us. [exhales sharply]

GANGNYEONGJEON

PRESSURE COOKER - PACKING COMPRESS - CAST-IRON POT

Do you care to explain what you are planning to do with a vessel like this?

It's a very important pot that will determine the dish's taste.

I'll be using it for the third round, for the soup.

This is the union of cooking and science that perfectly pairs together.

Your Majesty, it is essential for me

if I am to make something that doesn't exist yet.

[Yi Heon] So you are asking me to find someone to make this for you,

so you can win the competition?

Yes.

[stammers] Well, actually, is there anyone here named Jang Yeong-sil?

'Cause I believe he could do it.

Oh.

The senior general who made the concave sundial and the self-striking water clock?

A true craftsman.

The late king used to greatly cherish this work.

Used to cherish?

Wait, you mean that he's not here right now?

Let me see. Someone else at Gungisi could make it for you.

-Gungisi? -They make military weapons there.

They make cannons, swords, and spears too.

Ah, that won't do it.

I'm sorry,

-but I need an inventor. -[Yi Heon] Hmm.

Your Majesty.

CHANG-SEON CHIEF EUNUCH OF ROYAL FOOD

Jang Chun-saeng could work.

He is a descendant of Senior General Jang Yeong-sil.

A descendant of Jang Yeong-sil?

Great. Who is he?

He was notorious for creating bizarre objects for us over in the Gungisi.

-Hmm. -Then last summer he was kicked out,

for causing an explosion accident.

An explosion accident?

If that's the case, do you know where he is now?

I heard he has returned down to his hometown.

But the Gungisi should know more details if you inquire.

-[Yi Heon] Hmm. -Could we?

Your Majesty, can you please arrange it?

-There's not much time left. -No need to make a fuss about it.

-Rushing will not get it done right. -We can't beat the Ming cooks

without the pressure cooker. I know for sure.

To tenderize the chicken and infuse the soup with the distinctive flavor,

this step is absolutely imperative.

There's no time to prepare for the first and second rounds as it is.

We also need to prepare the other ingredients.

Are there not plenty of ingredients in the palace?

Well, the ingredients I want are

freshly gathered from beautiful mountains and clean waters.

They're honestly the determining factor in the success or failure of the dish.

In that case, it is only right that I join you then.

Your Majesty, that simply cannot happen.

The envoy delegation is staying at Taepyeonggwan currently.

Not only that, Your Majesty, but Cook Yeon is preparing for the competition

with the fate of Joseon at stake.

So, if Your Majesty decides to leave the palace at this time, I...

[clears throat]

[sighs]

[Yi Heon] All right.

I will allow it this time.

[chuckles] Your Majesty, thank you!

However,

you cannot leave the palace alone.

What?

Please travel safely.

Yes. I'll return safe and sound.

You may use this when you need horses and people.

[Song-jae] Yes, Your Majesty.

We will be off, Your Majesty.

All right.

[sighs]

[Yi Heon] Su-hyeok.

Tell me, do you think people might, um... find them a little strange?

What do you mean "a little strange"?

They might look like a married couple, no?

Ah. Yes, Your Majesty.

Though that may be a stretch.

I also do not believe they will be mistaken as brothers,

as Cook Yeon is too fair.

I will not have this.

Yes, Your Majesty.

[speaks inaudibly]

[sighs] The Mangunrok can be found, right?

[inhales sharply] You only talk about that book when you see me.

His Majesty told you he will find it, so leave me out of it.

[groans] It's important that I get it, is all.

Once this competition's wrapped up, I really will go home.

Do you still want to go back that much?

-Why do you say that? -Well, it looks like

you have caught the eye of His Majesty.

What? [scoffs]

Don't joke around like that.

Looking at His Majesty and you lately, it leads one to think,

the day could arrive when I will have to address you formally.

Maybe.

Your Grace, Lady Ji-young.

-[gasps] No. -[chuckles]

You're being ridiculous!

You should stop saying silly stuff like that.

Don't worry, 'cause I really am going home.

Or instead you could use this time

-to win His Majesty's heart. -And how does this benefit you?

Because whenever we talk, you push that I should.

[scoffs] There is no "pusheo" here.

"Pusheo." What's "pusheo" about this?

-What does that mean anyway? -Oh, forget I said it. [scoff]

-[gasps] -You startled us!

Hi there.

[sighs]

What are you doing here?

GONG-GIL - YEONHUIGUN'S JESTER WITH MANY SECRETS

-[gasps] -You're here!

What brings you here, Your Majesty?

[Yi Heon clears throat]

Men and women should not be sitting together after the age of seven.

So if I accompany you, then any uncomfortable misunderstandings

will not target Cook Yeon.

But, Your Majesty, she's dressed as a man,

-so it shouldn't... -Quiet.

One can tell by looking at her.

-[clears throat] -[Song-jae] Your Majesty,

have you forgotten about the delegation in Taepyeonggwan.

You are correct.

-Thus, you should hurry on your way. -[sighs]

Guarding the palace is your role, and important as well.

Forgive me for my impudence, but you can not do this.

This is a long journey, Your Majesty.

You forget, the fate of Joseon is determined by this competition.

It is only right that I should personally traverse the distance.

-[sighs] -[Yi Heon chuckles]

Let us hurry,

or we will be late.

-[clears throat] -[Su-hyeok] Yes, Your Majesty.

[Song-jae] Your Majesty.

Your Maj...

Su-hyeok.

-Uh, I... W-Wait, hang on a sec! -Cook Yeon, wait, please.

G-Gong-gil!

[sighs]

Where did you say His Majesty went?

He has left the palace.

You should have stopped him.

-You know the situation here. -Tell me, how could someone be stopped,

-who has already disguised himself? -[sighs]

I will handle the hall of governance.

The bedchamber can fall to you, Chief Eunuch.

[stammers]

Unfortunately, His Majesty is unwell and will not be holding court for now.

[councilors murmuring]

Therefore, focus on the delegation and competition requirements.

For anything else, file the matter in writing.

You claim that His Majesty is suddenly unwell?

What do you mean by that?

He was in perfect health just the day before when we all gathered.

All right, let us say we are agreed. [grunts]

Please, if you'll excuse us.

Let us go.

[councilors groan]

[grumbling]

[Yi Heon panting]

Gong-gil.

[pants] Where on earth are we?

I can barely stand anymore.

Just hold on a little longer, Your Majesty.

We must be getting close.

When we get there, don't blurt out

things like, "I am the king!"

You really shouldn't say that.

And why should I not say that?

-Why hide something that is the truth? -And what if he says... [gasps]

..."Forgive me, please, but I can not make it, Your Majesty"?

If that happens, what will you do?

-He'll be tied up and his legs twisted. -[groans] Are you for real?

[groans] All right.

Don't forget, you promised.

[sighs]

[sighs]

[Gong-gil] Let us go now.

Yes, let's go.

[Yi Heon sighs, groans]

[Jesan] So, His Majesty has left the palace once again?

Yes, Your Highness.

They say he has left the palace with the chief royal cook and others.

Why?

To be gone at such a crucial time like this, with all that's going on.

The court ladies at the royal kitchen said

they are in search of a peculiar item for the competition.

One that is peculiar, you say?

Then I suppose...

this might be a good opportunity to cancel the competition.

But, Your Highness, would it not be wise to wait until the envoy returns to Ming?

Lord Councilor!

Do you not know the importance of this competition?

The outcome of this competition will set our grand scheme into action instantly.

I must agree with you.

We have servants at the ready, do we not?

Are you referring to those who are training at the Guwol Mountain base?

Tell them immediately that I want to see them showcase

the skills they have been sharpening all this time.

Make all aware that our only target is...

Chief Royal Cook Yeon.

[Gong-gil sighs]

Are you sure this is right?

I am certain. It's at the end of the backwoods.

According to the Gungisi.

Hang on, what does that sign say?

"Anyone who opens the door without consent,

will be courting their own death."

-"Jang..." -[Ji-young] "Jang..."

[Gong-gil] "Jang Chun-saeng."

[Yi Heon sighs] Simply ludicrous.

These eccentrics have no sense of hierarchy.

How dare he claim that we need his permission?

-[clears throat] -[gasps]

Your Majesty, please! No!

Jang Chun-saeng!

Show yourself right now, you hear?

-Gosh, you're so annoying. -[Yi Heon grunts]

[gasps]

W-W-Wait, that's gonna explode!

Y-You just pulled the door open, and you lit the fuse on it, Your Majesty!

-[gasps] Everybody, go! Quick! -[Su-hyeok] Take cover!

[dramatic music playing]

[dreamy music playing]

[gasps softly]

[coughing]

-[music stops] -[laughing]

Wait. What happened? What is this?

[Yi Heon] That is exactly what I wish to know as well.

-[coughs] -What have you made here?

-[Su-hyeok coughs] -I'm sure it's not a hwapo.

Jang Chun-saeng.

-Mark my words, I will end you! -Hold on, hold on!

Come, look here! Let us take a look at this wall.

-How brilliant. It worked, it worked... -Jang Chun-saeng?

...it worked! [laughing]

[gasps]

-[laughter continues] -Is this puffed rice?

[Yi Heon sighs]

"Poofed rice"?

[chuckles] My gosh, it's puffed rice.

Well, I think we're in the right area.

These are just some hangwa crumbs. Why are you so excited?

This isn't just simple cooking at all.

This is molecular gastronomy, a fusion of cooking and science.

Molecular what?

So, the quantity has increased, but it's so bland and flavorless.

[Yi Heon] Are you really Jang Chun-saeng? Speak now.

Tell me, do you think I deserve such impudence?

-Oh, no. No... -Who are you, huh?

You can't be the king.

Who do you think you are to just barge into someone's house like this?

What did you say?

-Be careful, you are talking to... -Oh, wait! Uh... Im Song-jae, sir.

What is the matter here? [chuckles]

-[clears throat] -Oh, I get it. The chaehongsa?

Now... now, I understand. That's why you were so arrogant. [scoffs]

-Why you... -[Ji-young clears throat] You are right.

He is the Chief Royal Secretary.

So you knew who I was and set off a fake cannon anyway to scare us?

Do you have a death wish?

If I had known you were all from the palace,

then hundreds of iron balls would have flown in your way instead of rice.

How dare you speak that way!

Is that a dog barking? Where is he, huh?

Oh, my, there are actually two dogs.

-You impudent little... -Wait, wait. [shushes]

[barking, growling]

Oh, wow.

You seem to have a very keen eye, sir.

I am no sir.

[dramatic music playing]

[Ji-young] Oh...

It's a puffing machine that uses pressure and heat.

He may be able to...

Hmm.

[clears throat] Well, hello.

I am the Chief Royal Cook of the royal kitchen,

Yeon Ji-young. [smacks lips, chuckles]

What a strange situation, huh? The Chief Royal Secretary at my doorstep,

and the Chief Royal Cook who's a woman dressed as a man.

-[snickers] -Uh, you noticed that?

[clears throat] It m-might be hard to believe,

-but all of this is true. -[Chun-saeng sighs]

We came from pretty far to come request your expertise.

It's, uh, very crucial and the fate of the nation hangs in the balance.

"The fate of the nation"?

The nations affairs should be resolved by the ruler. So why are you all here then?

Will a sword aimed at your throat truly allow you to come to your senses at last?

[scoffs]

For an uninvited guest, you are brave to say that.

It would be best for you all to leave now.

-No... -From now on,

I cannot guarantee your safety.

I will no longer stand for this.

-Su-hyeok. -Sire!

Whoa... [stammers, stutters] ...no wait.

Hey, you two swore that you wouldn't do this. Didn't you?

[sighs]

[clears throat] Sir, if you wouldn't mind,

we're not here for national affairs.

I came here to ask for your help, sir.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

Wait!

-Wait, wait, wait. -[Chun-saeng sighs]

[sighs] Wow.

You really are quite an impatient one.

Hear us out and then we'll be off.

-Let us... Hey, just let us... -[mechanism clicks]

-[gasps] -Oh, no.

[stutters] I-I don't think we should do this.

Let's go right now!

-Go, go. -W-what a lunatic.

You'll be sorry for this!

-[Ji-young] Let's go. Hurry up. -That's a... he...

-[Gong-gil] Why can't we just talk it out? -Hurry!

-He's just... -Go!

[clears throat] That's a shame then.

I was gonna explain how to make puffed rice that you'd love.

[Chun-saeng] Puffed rice?

Uh, wait. Do you mean fried rice?

[grunts] What's that, sir?

[Ji-young chuckles] It worked.

[stammers] Wait.

Are you, uh, saying you can make this, uh, bland thing have flavor?

[chuckles]

[sighs] I shouldn't.

Hmm.

[grunts]

This is sugar.

Add a handful when you're putting in the rice. Bye.

What are we going to do now after all that?

We should have forced him to make it by twisting his legs.

[sighs]

Who said eccentrics don't respect hierarchies anymore?

And what if he had really pulled that rope? What were you going to do?

Obviously, he wasn't going to.

Your Majesty, I have yet to see someone who is like him

not finish what he started.

What is this insolence in the presence of your king?

[sighs] In his presence...

Can't you see we were in danger in there?

Ugh, is this really the time for that?

Fight it out however you want to, just please save it for when we return.

I won't stop you then.

[sighs] I cannot believe him.

He cannot humiliate me.

-[explosion] -[Ji-young screams]

[romantic music playing]

[clearing throat]

[sighing]

[Yi Heon clears throat]

[grunts]

Mmm.

You added the sugar, right?

[comedic music playing]

-What are you still here for? -We can't leave so soon.

And so? It's better with sugar.

Well, with the sugar added, it tastes good,

but it's still not right yet.

Why?

The reason I made that machine was to double the size of rice

for everyone to have.

Now I can't help but think, what's the point if it only tastes good with sugar?

It's precious and costs a fortune.

That's all the more reason. All I ask is for you to help me.

If you can help us win this competition,

then Joseon can get all the sugarcane we need at a much cheaper price.

And if we do that, then everyone you want can enjoy that delicious puffed rice.

That sugarcane story...

-You mean it? -I did actually come here with...

I mean, I'm... just accompanied by that high-ranked lord.

Why would I be lying to you?

Oh... [stammers] You... Are you really the chief royal cook?

[sighs]

Here, look at this.

CHIEF ROYAL COOK

Wait, so-so-so, then that person really is the chief royal secretary too?

Ye... yes. Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Then why is someone like you,

traveling with such a treacherous official?

It's a bit hard to explain, honestly. [chuckles]

[gulps]

[sighs] And tell me what you need help with?

[gasps] Oh, so...

Uh, um, it's...

This pressure cooker.

Oh!

Thank you so much.

[Yi Heon] Wait, why are those two heading inside?

What are they planning to do in there? I will strike him down!

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

Your Majesty, hold on.

Don't you think we should get ahold of what she came here for before we act.

[sighs]

Let us wait for a moment. Things are progressing, Sire.

[sighs]

I am going to lose it.

Even before it all starts.

[Chun-saeng] Oh...

This can trap the steam produced when the water boils.

Yep, that's it.

Oh. When a certain pressure is reached from the boiling water,

use a weight to release it?

Isn't it brilliant? Water boils at a temperature of 100 degrees,

-but at two atmospheres, it boils at 120. -Two atmos...

So basically, you can eat the meat and even the bones

because it cooks it all so thoroughly.

I seriously have no idea what you're trying to say,

but the pot will definitely explode if the joints weaken just a bit.

So you can only use pure iron.

Oh, but why am I even thinking about this right now?

All right. Just get to the point of this, will you?

Why am I the one to make this now?

Because in a few days, there's a cooking competition in Huijeongdang

between Joseon and Ming.

And I will do everything in my power to win, no matter what.

Whoa. Cooks from Ming are your opponent?

This will not be easy.

How confident are you?

If you help me win this, Master Chun-saeng.

If you can make this pot, then I believe I can win, thanks to you.

I will not help you.

I am not interested in helping those high-ups who use you,

just to throw you back out the door.

Oh, wait. Master Chun-saeng. Wait a moment.

If we lose this competition,

they will be taking so much away from Joseon.

The people will suffer the most 'cause of this.

Help me! Will you please do this?

The world won't be any different for it.

Do you think Jang Yeong-sil

would have thought the same?

[melancholy music playing]

Do you know my uncle?

You're right. If it were him, he would have done it.

And he would have been used and abandoned again.

That is why I will not do it.

Please be on your way.

-[door opens] -[sighs]

[door closes]

This won't be easy.

[Su-hyeok sighs]

-[Yi Heon] What did I say? -[Ji-young sighs]

Men like that cannot be reasoned with.

[sighs] Let us take him to the authorities.

Time is running out.

Oh, Your Majesty.

There's only malice left inside people like that

but move his heart, you could get through.

If you use force, then majority of the time...

I mean, it was all flashy on the outside but inside...

Well, the inside is a mess too, I'm sure.

[Ji-young sighs] Yes. Gong-gil's right on this one.

When Your Majesty forced me to cook for him at first,

all I wanted to do was run away.

You what? [scoffs]

All right.

And have you not been doing well so far?

It's just... [grunts]

What if the pressure cooker is made wrong? What are we gonna do?

Then I will cut off his wrists for failing.

-And destroy his next three generations. -[Ji-young sighs] Ugh.

If we want this to be done correctly, he needs to be convinced.

-You can't force him to. -Then what do you think we should do here?

I need to connect with him. [sighs]

I just can't think of a good idea how.

All of you. Come up with a few good ideas by tonight.

-Yes, we will. -[Gong-gil] Ye-yes, Your Majesty.

JAHONGWON

He left the grounds with the chief royal cook?

[breathes heavily] How could he do this to me?

Your Grace, please try to calm down.

It is most likely because of the competition.

But more importantly, I looked into that jester named Gong-gil.

Just as Your Grace instructed me to.

I found the troupe he used to belong to and learned something interesting

-from the troupe leader. -What is it?

Does the name Ok-dan, sound familiar to you?

Do you mean that young girl who was here at Jahongwon before?

Yes, the very one.

Ok-dan was Gong-gil's sister.

[gasps]

That explains why he has been lingering around the palace recently.

I believe Ok-dan's death could be the reason he has been here.

Send someone at once.

We must find out all we can on why he's here.

I will, Your Grace.

[breathing shakily]

The king left the grounds with Cook Yeon?

Yes.

I am not sure what the king's departure from the palace actually means,

Your Royal Highness, but what I do know is that it's true.

He is known to leave the palace so openly more than not.

-I am sure there is no meaning to it. -However, it is also true

that he is not one who would leave when the envoy is here in the palace.

[Inju] She is right.

His Majesty is young and immature and does however he pleases.

Yet, he is not a thoughtless man, Our Majesty.

Perhaps, it is to do with the competition with the envoy.

You believe His Majesty left the grounds because of it?

Maybe the reason the king left is

because he has developed feelings for the chief royal cook?

[scoffs] You better watch your mouths.

[Inju clicks tongue]

-[crickets chirping] -[owl hoots]

ROYAL KITCHEN

[sizzling]

[Bong-sik groans]

[grunting]

[sighs]

[blows]

Ah.

Does taste good... [inhales sharply] ...but it's not extraordinary.

I suppose using a cauldron is a bit of a stretch.

Our chief royal cook was right about all of it and so...

When is Cook Yeon going to get here today?

Well, I have already sliced up all the short ribs...

-[sighs] -...or whatever they are.

I guess we should be ready to start the first round?

You stored the chili powder and the gochujang correctly, right?

I made sure of it. Uh, I-I promise it is safe.

I hid the two away in Saongwon in Cook Min's grain storage.

And the ducks she asked you to get? Did you?

-Uh... -[Min] Bong-sik!

[pants] Bong-sik, something's happening. Come quickly. Please.

What could possibly be going on?

Cook Maeng's acting a bit strange this morning.

Now what?

-Let me guess, it's his nerves again? -[Min sighs]

-[Maeng] Again. Again! -[both gasp]

That scared me.

-[chopping] -[cane thuds]

[Gil-geum groans]

Ow!

-[grunts] -Enough.

If you slice it like this,

are we supposed to use these scallions or throw them away?

[Gil-geum whimpers] I'm sorry.

[breathes shakily] I will do it again.

[Maeng] Match my pace.

[screams, breathes heavily]

You're useless. How can you still not cut?

Go outside right now and sharpen the knife again!

-[Gil-geum breathes shakily] -Oh, move. [pants]

-Oh. Uh... -[Min sighs]

[Min, Gil-geum grunt]

-[Sim grunts] -[sobbing]

[Sim] Gosh, what is going on with Cook Maeng?

He was so nice to her before. What's going on?

-[Bong-sik sighs] -I said it was a bit strange.

He is treating her more sternly than he treats me.

[sighs] Ever since his neck's on the line, he's been rather annoying.

[sighs] Ugh.

Wait. Hang on.

Why is he teaching her, anyway?

KONG WENLI MASTER OF KUNG FU CUISINE

TANG BAILONG MASTER OF SICHUAN CUISINE

[in Chinese] Good.

I have not seen you this passionate in a long time.

Our pride as cooks depends on this competition.

Though there is nothing for us to gain from winning,

losing would be an indescribable humiliation.

We shall not look down on a small nation for its modest size,

nor be arrogant merely because we come from a great nation.

There is an idiom that goes,

"One cannot be a good cook...

if their skill comes before their virtue."

I always remember your teaching.

Always remain humble as we show them

what the greatest cooks of Ming can do.

Yes, Brother Tang.

Mmm. [exhales sharply]

Anyway...

where is Ya Feixiu?

RESIDENCE OF GRAND PRINCE JESAN

[Jesan, in English] Well, look who it is. Are you not one of the cooks from Ming?

-And what is the occasion? -[translator speaks Chinese]

[in Chinese] Before I explain, please accept this.

[dramatic music playing]

[in English] Wait, this is chopi, right?

[speaking Chinese]

[in English] This is not just chopi,

it is the finest Sichuan chopi, huajiao for numbing.

[inhales sharply] I wonder.

Why have we received such a precious gift?

[in Chinese] There is something I wish to exchange with this.

[Ji-young sighs]

[in English] Even the weather is not helping us.

We can't have you catch goppul like this, Your Majesty.

GOPPUL: A PURE KOREAN WORD FOR A COLD

That won't be good.

My clothes are already soaked. [clears throat]

[Gong-gil] Commander, sir.

Stop standing over there and come sit down out of the rain.

You're going to get drenched.

Do not worry about it.

It's no surprise you won't come under the shelter.

I mean, you can guard us from inside,

but you just have to play the hero. [tutting]

[clearing throat]

On a day like this, a cup of makgeolli,

and some pajeon as well, that's just the thing.

Glug, glug, glug, glug, glug, glug.

It sounds perfect right now.

Do you not agree, Your Majesty?

Pajeon, you say...

[gulps, chuckles]

Just thinking about it makes me happy.

[exhales sharply]

Brilliant. Pajeon!

I've got it.

Is Jang Yeong-sil's hometown around here?

And how would I know that?

-[sighs] -[knocks on wood]

Well, based on Jang Chun-saeng's accent,

I would say Dongnae, near Busanpo.

If I had to guess.

So he's from Busan, am I right?

Yes.

Great. I thought so. [exhales sharply]

What are you doing?

I think there might be a way to change Master Chun-saeng's mind after all.

All right, so we have to buy the ingredients, yeah?

Because it'll be for nothing if the rain stops! Move it!

-Hurry! -Huh? Seriously?

-I am the... Ah! -Hurry!

Ah, they finally left.

And anyway, this new batch doesn't taste good without any sugar.

No matter how much I eat, I'm never full.

[grunting]

[whimsical music playing]

[grunting]

I think this one needs to be cleaned too.

[Yi Heon] Hmm.

Why are you not frying the pajeon already?

What do you know about pajeon, huh?

The batter needs to be adjusted to a thick consistency.

-That's the key point, you know. -"Poindu"?

The first step is to line up the scallions just like this and cook them thoroughly.

Now, it's time for fanning, please!

You have to do more! More!

[upbeat music playing]

[sighs] The smell is seriously amazing.

-I'm going crazy doing this, Your Majesty. -[grunts]

[Ji-young gasps]

You're doing a great job fanning over there!

You're doing great, Su-hyeok. And you too, Gong-gil. Good!

You're doing so well.

Oh! This is amazing!

-That's great, now faster! -[Gong-gil] Faster?

-[Ji-young] Yes! -Move aside.

Yes! [sighs]

-Your Majesty, it is okay. -Ahem.

Oh...

Forgive me, Your Majesty.

[upbeat music continues]

[gasps]

[imitates Ji-young] Oh, Your Majesty! It's like a brisk mountain breeze

that I'm feeling from your fan, Your Majesty. [giggles]

-Do not talk to me like that. -[normal] Yes. Sorry. [clears throat]

[grunts, chuckles]

[mysterious music playing]

[sniffing]

What's that smell?

Wow... [sniffs] ...that smell is incredible. [sniffs]

But what is that, huh?

[whispers] Oh, he's coming.

[Chun-saeng grunts]

[sniffs]

-Uh... -Oh, just wait a moment, sir.

What is it?

His Majesty wanted to... [stammers]

I mean, uh, so the Chief Royal Secretary

wanted to have some pajeon and makgeolli on a rainy day.

And I ended up making quite a lot of pajeon

and makgeolli without knowing, so come and have some.

If you would like.

Pajeon's a dish from your hometown, isn't that right, sir?

Yes, you're right.

Ah, no. Forget it.

[Yi Heon] Let him be.

If you cannot stand being in the heat, then it's best to leave the kitchen.

Go on and cut it for us.

[sighs]

[stomach growls]

Hang on.

Hey, look here.

Don't be like that, all right?

Let's go over there and have some together.

I mean, come on. Really.

Look at that perfect, golden-brown pajeon.

Pretty color, yeah?

Let's go. Over there. Yeah!

-Let's go. -Ah, geez.

[both grunt]

-Hey, hey, hey. -All right.

Please, come have a bite.

[sighs]

Mmm. [chuckles]

Mmm.

Why does he stuff his face in that annoying way?

Go ahead and eat.

-It's all right with me. -[both] Thank you.

[Chun-saeng] Wait, this taste is...

[chuckles]

Mmm. Mmm.

-[coughing] -[Ji-young] Oh, you're eating so fast,

you might upset your stomach. Here you go.

There's plenty more. So eat slowly and enjoy, all right?

Ah!

Oh, that's so good.

Wow!

This taste is the exactly same as the ones from home.

Just like the ones when I was a child, you know?

How did you make it so good?

'Cause my father's also from Busan, just like you.

Oh, Busanpo?

Oh, yes, that's right, Busanpo.

-[chuckles] -Oh, no wonder. [laughing]

Have more of it.

So yesterday, you said that Master Jang Yeong-sil

was abandoned after being used for his work, was that right?

But just like how you remember this taste from your childhood, Master Chun-saeng,

I promise you, no one will be forgetting any of his work.

[melancholy music playing]

[Ji-young] Thanks to him,

people were able to know the time accurately.

And he's the reason they can observe the constellations above.

Master Chun-saeng,

I know this may sound a bit strange to you,

but I'm actually...

not even from this time period.

-Hmm? -It's a bit complicated to explain,

but that is the truth.

And the reason why I am the one

stepping forward to do this for everyone is because...

I love cooking more than anything.

[chuckles]

When I see people enjoying the food I made

and looking satisfied as they eat every last bite,

I'm never happier than seeing that.

So in this competition, I want to show everyone from Ming what I can do,

and to show Korea's...

Um...

To show the amazing taste of Joseon.

So could you help us out by doing what you love to do, Master Chun-saeng?

Will you help us out or not?

Help us win this competition.

So that everyone, soon, can also make

and eat some of your delicious, sweet puffed rice

whenever they want with Ming's sugarcane.

I'm sure that being able to do that for everyone will make you happy, too.

I'm asking you to do this for us.

Will you please, for everyone's sake?

Please, please?

Ah!

I will make it for you.

Will you? [gasps]

Will you really do that?

Oh, calm down.

-It's not like I'm making it for you. -[scoffs]

How dare you. Rascal!

-Oh, you keep... How annoying. -Hey, quit it. Just stay quiet.

Oh, thank you. Thank you.

-Thank you so much. -I should be thanking you.

I did not think I would be able to taste this again.

But you've given me this gift.

I've been longing for that taste...

of my hometown.

[Ji-young] I promise,

I'll teach you caramel puffed rice one day.

"Garamul" puffed rice?

Did you say you're headed to Danyang?

Yes. They have a few ingredients I'm after.

Assist him well, so that it is ready when we get back.

Yes, Your...

[clears throat]

My lord.

Do not get distracted and keep working hard.

We'll be late, so we should go.

[merchant] Safe travels, my lord.

Here.

Let's go.

[Gong-gil groans]

Here we are. The mold!

Shall we begin?

[Gong-gil] Here we go.

[grunts] What did I pull out?

It looks a little like ginseng, but...

What? [gasps]

No way! You just pulled out wild ginseng!

[chuckles]

-[Yi Heon clears throat] -Uh, Your Majesty, what are you doing?

Did you forget? Everything in this country is mine.

And this one is truly mine. I was the one who found it.

[chuckles]

[Chun-saeng chuckles] I think we can finish by tomorrow!

That's great news.

The chief royal cook and chief royal secretary will arrive then.

-That's perfect. -[chuckles] All right, let's hurry!

[in Chinese] What is that? That is an oil I have never seen before.

It is the ultimate move that will lead us into a perfect victory in the first round.

Hmm? Where did you get this?

Trust me.

You entrusted the first dish to me.

I will live up to your expectations.

Do not use unfamiliar ingredients recklessly. Last time, you...

Ya Feixiu,

I will trust you.

The day of the competition is approaching.

[Yu Kun] That's right.

I am increasingly looking forward to

-the skills of the Ming imperial cooks. -So please wait and see.

[in English] Let us speak in the Joseon language.

Yes, let's.

It seems that we are in the same boat now, would you say so?

Let us keep our deal then,

and what we have bargained for.

I assume you mean that

you believe that your country will surely win this competition.

Perhaps,

there may be a chance that the competition itself

could not even go forth.

And what do you mean it would not go forth?

Because the chief royal cook

has left the palace to obtain materials for the competition.

However, the greatest dangers

lie beyond the palace walls, do they not?

[laughs]

[in Chinese] I wonder if the banquet that day

will become a competition between the cooks of Ming and themselves.

[in English] You should be getting some rest.

Take your time. We'll meet at the hour of Mill.

EIGHTH HOUR OF TWELVE FROM 1 PM TO 3 PM

[in Chinese] Our cooks will be a bit disappointed.

[both laughing]

[Bong-sik sighs, in English] Prepare the ingredients well tomorrow.

-[Maeng] We will. -[cooks] Yes, sir.

[Bong-sik] Goodness gracious.

Finally. [sighs]

The competition is tomorrow.

The chief royal cook will arrive on time, right?

Sure, she will.

We should get a some rest tonight.

I feel a bit uneasy that Cook Min and Cook Sim are left behind. They're fine.

We prepared all the evening refreshments. What's there to worry about?

Oh, I wanted to ask.

Why have you been giving Gil-geum such a hard time lately?

The chief royal cook is not around,

so don't be too hard on her.

I saw that you assigned her a lot of work again today.

[Gil-geum crying]

[sniffles]

If she won't be helpful,

it's only right that she leaves on her own.

Tsk, tsk, tsk.

How can someone act so coldheartedly?

And why is he walking so fast? Hey!

Hey! Oh, Cook Maeng!

-Are you not listening to me? -What are you doing?

Bong-sik, you don't live down this way!

Well, how many times are you going to make me...

What's that?

[both gasping]

[stammering] Who are you?

I have an important message that needs to be delivered to His Majesty immediately.

[gulps]

The chief royal cook is in danger. Hurry.

[breathing shakily]

Wait, look! That white hair!

That white-haired man, isn't he from the Ming delegation? Must be, right?

Uh, how can that be?

-He spoke our language. -I do not know.

Did you see placed in his jacket?

I'm sure I saw a knife inside... inside of his jacket.

[stammering] What does it say on the note?

There's nothing written on the paper.

-[Bong-sik] Oh, sir. -[Maeng] Sir.

What is it?

Why are you both here at this hour?

We were just on our way out of the palace,

when an unknown man asked us to deliver this to His Majesty.

He wore a black mask and exuded a truly terrifying aura.

But he was no ordinary person.

Thank you. You both may go now.

[both] Yes, sir.

What is this?

Oh.

[informant, in Chinese] There are those who are targeting the chief royal cook.

It is unlikely she will live past tomorrow, so be on your guard.

[in English] Chief Eunuch, come.

How long does it take to get from here to Jang Chun-saeng's house?

By about dawn tomorrow. If you are able to ride fast, you can make it.

Tell them to prepare the horses. Now!

Yes.

[horses neighing]

Yah!

[Song-jae] Your Majesty, please stay safe until I arrive.

THE DAY OF THE COMPETITION - HOUR OF THE RABBIT, BETWEEN 5 AND 7 AM

It's done. We really made it, sir!

[laughs]

We are here.

[Gong-gil] Welcome back, Your Majesty.

[assassin] Only kill the girl.

[gasps] Whoa!

Indeed, quite impressive.

[laughing]

The two of us stayed up through the night making it.

[blows]

We made it so it can comfortably withstand high pressure from very high heat.

Cook Yeon. Use this opportunity to truly showcase your skills?

Thank you for everything.

Thank you so much, Master Chun-saeng.

Wow, it's really perfect. [gasps]

[Yi Heon] Here. I will reward you again at a later time.

You did mighty well.

All right. Let us return to the palace now.

-[Su-hyeok] Yes, Sire. -[Ji-young] Oh...

My apologies, I wish I could make you one last meal.

[laughs] It's all right.

You'll visit again.

[ringing]

Hurry! There are assassins!

Wait, what? Assassins? Are you sure?

What are you talking about?

The bells are ten paces. They appear to be moving quickly.

We must leave, Your Majesty. They seem to be highly skilled.

Your what?

Oh, uh, I'm so sorry, Master, it's just that...

-[ringing] -[panting]

I will hear your explanation later. But now,

you must leave here at once.

Who on earth are they?

Your Majesty, what do we do now?

I'll protect you.

[ringing]

-Open the door, wait for my signal. -[Su-hyeok] All right.

Wait what? Why are you saying to open it? We should keep it closed!

Trust me, Your Majesty.

[ringing]

Open the door!

[grunting]

[all grunting]

-Cook Yeon, run! Hurry! -Yes!

-Hurry, we have to go. -This way.

[breathing heavily]

[all grunting]

[assassin screams]

[screams]

[screams]

[grunts]

[gasps] Oh, no!

-No, no! -[Yi Heon] What are you doing?

We have to go!

[screams]

[grunting]

[Chun-saeng] Gong-gil, take Cook Yeon and go out the back door!

-We can't use weapons right now! -[gasps]

-No, it was a near miracle getting that. -Let's go!

Cook Yeon! I will bring it to you on the day of the competition.

We will all die if you don't go!

-Uh-huh! -[assassin screams]

-[grunts] -[Ji-young gasps]

-[Yi Heon] This way. Come! -Okay!

[assassin screams]

[grunting]

Hey! Let's all die here!

Hey!

[assassin] Go after the girl!

[Chun-saeng] Oh, damn it.

[breathing heavily]

[Su-hyeok] Your Majesty!

Hurry and get to safety, I will hold them off from here.

-All right. I will. -Please be careful.

I entrust you with His Majesty's safety.

Let us go.

[assassins shout]

[all grunting]

[grunting continues]

[assassin shouts]

[Ji-young, Yi Heon breathing heavily]

Your Majesty, I think we must part ways.

I will stall them from here.

Understood. We will go down this path.

Thank you, Gong-gil.

-Hurry! Go! -Let us go!

[Ji-young] Yes.

Over here!

-[screams] -[grunts]

[all grunting]

[breathing heavily]

[shouts]

[Ji-young screams, grunts]

No, no, no, no, no!

-[assassin screams] -[Yi Heon grunts]

From whom did you receive orders?

[all grunting]

Your Majesty, watch out!

[grunting continues]

[gasps]

[stammering] Your Majesty, your shoulder is bleeding...

There is no need to make a fuss.

I will not die.

[assassin grunts]

[grunts]

-[horses neighing] -[arrows whistling]

[Ji-young screams]

[all grunting]

[straining]

Who is it? Who sent you here?

[grunts, gurgles]

[gasps]

Cook Yeon! Cook Yeon!

Are you all right? Please open your eyes.

[Song-jae grunts]

Please, open your eyes.

Your Majesty.

It seems she has fainted for a moment.

Please forgive me for being late.

Thank you for coming, Song-jae.

[Gong-gil] Goodness. Walk slower, would you?

[Yi Heon] Are you all right?

[Su-hyeok] Yes, Your Majesty, we are all right.

You would have had a dead commander

if it weren't for me, Your Majesty. [winces]

[chuckles] Is that so?

Swordsmanship like Su-hyeok's is unmatched in Joseon.

I mean, he would've rolled all the way down a hill

from losing his footing or something.

[grunts]

Even the best swordsman in Joseon is useless on slopes.

[laughs]

But, Your Majesty, is the chief royal cook all right?

She seems to have fainted from the shock of it all.

It is a relief she is unharmed with the competition being soon.

However, these assassins, I'm sure are different from the ones last time.

Is that right?

Yes, Your Majesty. These were military trained, I know it.

Military trained?

Their movements were coordinated, and to keep their secrets,

they committed suicide to not get captured.

That means this is not a personal interference.

It seems they were soldiers sent by those with treacherous intentions, Your Majesty.

[gasping, breathing heavily]

Pressure cooker, pressure cooker...

Oh!

[scoffs]

Are you all right?

Yeah. Oh, are you all okay?

Better than you.

-Do not worry. -Everybody is safe.

Ah! Thank goodness. [gasps]

Oh, my gosh, I was scared to death. [crying]

H-Hang on.

It's still today, right? The day of the competition.

[Yi Heon] Yes, it is.

How will you compete with a bandaged hand?

Uh... It's okay.

We should go. We need to go now. Hurry!

But you do not even have the lid right now.

It's okay. I trust that Master Chun-saeng will get us the lid.

I believe it. We need to go!

Hurry! Let's go! Hurry, come on!

All of them are fools!

How could I achieve greatness among these imbeciles?

[sighs]

[scoffs]

However, the competition...

will not go according to Your Majesty's wishes.

HUIJEONGDANG

[sighs]

Hurry, hurry...

[Bong-sik sighs]

[Yu Kun, in Chinese] Well, would you look at that?

It is the hour of the Mill and His Majesty and the chief royal cook

have still yet to make an appearance?

How shall I take this? My, my...

[interpreter, in English] He is inquiring about the whereabouts

of His Majesty and the chief royal cook.

Chief Eunuch, will you tell the envoy

that unfortunately His Majesty will arrive a little late.

Yes.

[Yi Heon] Ha!

Yah!

[Ji-young winces, groans]

-[Yi Heon] Whoa, whoa. -[horse blusters]

-Whoa. -Whoa, whoa, whoa.

-[Ji-young sighs] -Are you sure you are okay?

[sighs] I feel weak and a bit nauseous.

[groans] I think I have motion sickness from riding with you.

Are you, um,

wanting me to apologize for putting you through this?

[groans] What? Of course I'm not.

[grunts]

Thank you for earlier.

You were, um, really cool.

[chuckles]

Yes, I know how to handle a sword.

[clears throat]

In any case, you all have been through a lot.

If I had not suggested competing with Ming, then...

Uh, hey...

What are you doing, Your Majesty? This isn't like you. [chuckles]

I'm fine, really. It's fine.

Uh... Let's go, come on! Move it!

[all grunting]

Yah!

I am sorry, Cook Yeon,

for putting you through a hard time.

[in Chinese] It is the promised time now.

Joseon has long been known as the country of courteous people in the East,

but this is a serious breach of etiquette, is it not?

Perhaps His Majesty ran away somewhere with the chief royal cook?

[laughing]

[person] Ridiculous. Did they really escape?

[interpreter, in English] He says that he is curious

whether His Majesty and the chief royal cook have run away.

My word. How could they be so rude?

[groans]

Chief State Councilor, if His Majesty does not arrive,

and the hour of Mill goes on, what might we do?

Let us hope and wait.

It is not courteous to have the chief envoy waiting. We should not allow this.

[groans]

We should hurry and start the competition at once.

[grunts]

[sighs]

[court official] It is the hour of Mill!

[Chang-seon] It is exactly the hour of the Mill.

We will begin at once with the competition.

-[scoffs] -[Gil-geum] Oh, no...

[Chang-seon] The cooks from each country, please step forward.

[in Chinese] The first round of the competition is about to begin.

Cooks, please come forward.

[mouthing, in English] Cook Eom. What now?

[groans]

[coughs]

[sighs]

[in Chinese] Sir, we can't start the competition yet.

What do you mean by that?

The hour of the Mill has not yet passed.

We will not begin until the hour of the Shin.

What are you saying?

Sir, it is time to show the magnanimity of a great nation.

What? What did you say just now?

Hmm.

Never mind. I'll just listen to you and wait a little longer.

[court official, in English] Let us begin at the hour of Shin.

[Chang-seon] At Ming's request, we will begin at the hour of the Shin.

[Gil-geum exhales]

That's a relief, is it not?

Oh, dear. Seriously,

what is taking Cook Yeon so long to get here?

Goodness, I am not sure either.

[scoffs]

[court official] It is the hour of Shin!

[grunts]

[scoffs]

[laughs]

It's over.

Oh, no! What do we do, Cook Eom?

[sighs] They're so late, why even arrive at all?

[Gil-geum breathing heavily]

You watch your mouth!

[Bong-sik] Oh, no. [groans]

[in Chinese] They are here.

[horse blusters]

[grunts]

[Ji-young breathing heavily]

[sighs]

[in English] We have arrived.

-Shall I show them what I can do? -[doors open]

[Min-seong] Your Majesty!

[Hyeong-min] Your Majesty!

[court officials] Your Majesty!

[all] Your Majesty.

BON APPÉTIT, YOUR MAJESTY

[Song-jae] The theme of the first dish is...

[Ji-young] I have to prepare a meat dish they've never seen before.

A taste that didn't exist in this era.

Have you forgotten? Joseon must lose this contest.

[Min] We're in trouble! The chili powder has gone missing.

[Ji-young] Where did you get this red oil from?

Did you bring this ingredient with you?

[Yi Heon] Why did you do such a thing? What were you thinking?

[Jesan] The king and the chief royal cook cannot escape this arrow of fate.

[laughs]

[Ji-young] I don't want to lose either.

[Yi Heon] I will announce the results of the first competition.