Original subtitles

My scripture, scripture of the true Maitreya, will be

the only laws of this world.

All living creatures and gods throughout heaven and earth

will exist only by my laws.

This is the law of Maitreya!

I am the true Maitreya.

Maitreya is the Buddha of salvation.

You have seen and felt the suffering of the world.

Why has it come this?

The misdeed of Shakyamuni is the cause.

Who is Shakyamuni?

He is the thief that robbed my position.

In the life past, Shakyamuni and I traveled the world together.

During our journey, we made a bet to determine who will be

the first to enlighten mankind

We tested on whose kness a peony blossom will bloom first.

And to no surprise, it flowered on my knee first.

But the thief Shakyamuni stole blossom and put

it on his knees.

Though I knew of this, I conceded to Shakyamuni.

"I pity your dishonesty." I said to him.

"You may put forth your effort with mankind first."

That is the cause of the suffering in this world.

Shakyamuni's thieving heart has stained the heart of mankind.

But his time has run out, and I have come to this world.

You will shed the burden of suffering and enter

Paradise with me.

Those who follow me will enjoy eternal tranquility and bliss.

Glory to Maitreya Buddha! Glory to Maitreya Buddha!

Long Live the King! Long Live the King!

Ancient priest Wonhyo had said one could understand the world

of Buddha by simply understanding Namu Amitabha.

But there is a superior mantra you will learn by heart.

You will repeat this at home and at work, and

in sleep and in wakefulness. "Om Mani Padma Hum"

The essence of Buddhism is contained in these words.

This mantra will lead you out of suffering and into Nirvana.

Om Mani Padme Hum. Om Mani Padme Hum.

Om Mani Padme Hum. Om Mani Padme Hum.

The contents of Goongyae's Sutra are unknown.

But by studying another of his composition Hamheung Mooga, we

can speculate that is Sutra contained the story about

Shakymuni, Maitreya and the peony blossom.

Perhaps this was another devise used to assert himself

as the true Maitreya.

Oh, it is Master Huhwal!

Yes, Your Majesty.

How long has it been? Do you still rove the mountains?

Yes, Your Majesty.

Who might this monk be?

He is the senior piest of Bupsang Sect Sukchong.

Bupsang Sect?

Then you must know more about Maitreya than anyone.

What did you think about my teachings?

I asked you for your opinion.

I've not seen or heard anything, as I am deaf and blind.

I could not answer you, Your Majesty.

Deaf and blind?

He is an old monk that lived in hermitage for too long.

Ignore his remark.

Yes. How could I blame him when he has been misguided by Shakya?

But you will study my teachings henceforth.

Your Majesty, it was a glorious service.

Many have been awed and inspired, I'm sure.

I hope you are right. But enlightenment takes time.

Our people must commit to learning. Let us go

I will return to Chulwon, Your Majesty.

Public works demand my attention.

You are indeed a dedicated man, Ahjitae.

We are always one at heart. Return to Chulwon.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Heaven has helped us, Buyong!

Heaven has sent you back to us safely!

Your father and I have not slept since the day you left!

I was wrong about General Wang.

He is a man of his word.

He never gave up searching for you to keep his promise.

What great honor it is that the emperor is personally

commanding your wedding ceremony!

I could die a happy woman now.

Oh, but that will we do about your hair?

There is no need to rush, Mother.

The ceremony can wait until my hair has grown out.

No, no. I have been anxious beyond words.

You will wear a bonnet. The wedding can not wait.

Mother...

I will make you the most beautiful silk bonnet.

We must not delay your wedding. Unpredictable is the future.

What we eared most is happening.

This is the beginning of tyranny.

He has denied Buddha.

His Majesty's words are now absolute laws.

Who would dare submit any remonstrance?

Something must be done. He has gone much too far.

No matter the good intention, despotism begets resentment.

It is most frustrating... I am at a loss for what to do...

But we can not sit around and let this happen.

You are the only one who can suppress His Majesty's tyranny.

He must be made the man he was before - -

the king who shared the sufferings of his people.

I have no such powers. Ahjitae has him blinded and bewitched.

We are trying to dig up anything that can be used against him,

but it doesn't look hopeful.

You must rally loyal men who are concerned about

the future, and turn the course of this kingdom.

That's easier said than done. Ahjitae is an astute man,

and His Majesty is also a masterful politician.

Take the recent military action for example.

They are buying time with diversion while they get

the public under control. It is a brilliant manoeuver.

Meanwhile our citizens are being tortured!

They are like the sea that keep the boat afloat.

But they can also overturn and sink the boat as well.

Tyranny will lead to seething rebellion that will destroy

this kingdom.

We must give our lives to stop that from happening.

We've worked too hard to build this country.

I was like a different person, you say?

Perhaps my sermon was too difficult for you.

I am still shaken.

It is most frightening to deny the historical Buddha.

I understand where you're coming from.

I'm sure most people feel the same way.

But Buddha was also a man, and he has not achieved anything.

But I am different. I've come to save mankind.

It is only right that I should criticize Shakya

as I am about to accomplish what he has failed.

Yes, but such shocking attestation was not necessary...

Our future is bright.

Anything is possible if laws of Maitreya are observed.

But nobles and peasants alike are caught up in selfish desires.

Today's service was intended to make them realize their errors.

I will continue to rigorously preach the truth, and I will

not hesitate to use force if necessary.

Use force? What do you mean?

Indoctrination is not an easy task.

Flagellationis sometimes good medicine for ignorant people.

For some reason, I am afraid, Your Majesty.

You have thus far been a tender father to our citizens.

But you do not appear to be no longer...

Do not fear. I do understand your concern.

But I assure you. People will soon come to undestand me.

The Great Empire is not mine.

Its glory will go to each and every citizens, and

their descendants will forever live in Maitreya's paradise.

We was returned, Master Caretaker.

Welcome back. Good work.

Where should we take these?

Wait right here. Second Madam will speak to you.

Good work.

Were you able to acquire everything I've asked for?

Yes..

I take it you bought the highest grade goods available?

Yes, Madam.

These are wedding gifts for the bride's family.

You'll have tomake another trip if they are inelegant.

Take them inside for now.

This way.

Is General Wang inside?

Yes. He is engaged in a conversation with Lord Wang.

Yes.. I am sure they have much to discuss.

Nephew,

Yes, Uncle.

What was your feeling about His Majesty's sermon?

Fankly, I was taken aback.

I thought much about what could've been his motivation.

Frustration and despair kept me up all night.

How could he preach such doctrine?

Buddha bringing ruin to the world... Gods will be enraged.

Emperor could not have done this inadvertently.

It is a device to repress the public.

Resentment over the construction of the

new imperial city is intensifying everyday.

We are facing a crisis worse than any we've faced before.

Yes, but we must unite and support our ruler.

Support him?

A gravely important project has already been launched.

And it is unrealizable without national support.

I'm sure this was a hard but necessary decision to make.

But how effective will this be?

People reacted with applause at the mass,

but that was not their genuine sentiment.

Shikryum is that right. Everyone is afraid of the future.

Above all, they will clamp down on us nobles.

Luckily you will be at the front during all this.

It's best to stay away in times like this.

You can put yourself in danger if you get wrapped upin this.

Our future looks grim...

I wake up everyday wondering what disaster wil strike next.

His Majesty has never looked so intimidating.

I had chills running down my spine.

Essentially, it is a maneuver to repress us.

He has transcended his authority as an emperor and positioned

himself above Shakyumuni Biddha. He now has unlimited authority.

Yes.

It is a dangerous move.

There will be a rebellion.

Rebellion? Who would dare?

Repression always backfires.

Do you think the high monks will accept what was said at the mass?

You are right.

We all saw master Sukchong's bitter reaction.

Yesterday passed without mishap, but what will happen next time?

His majesty does not forgive twice.

What has you so pensive?

Have you become mute? Why are you so quiet?

I am ashamed to have come back alive...

How am I to face Buddha?

There's much you need to accomplish.

If anyone should die, it should be me, the fallen monk.

The mask has finally come off.

Goongyae is not Maitreya. He is a wicked mortal.

Om Mani Padme Hum embodies all of Buddha's teachings.

It is the highest mantra, and a vow to save sentient beings.

But Goongyae is exploiting it.

And he is claiming to be Maitreya who was foretold

to come 3.5 billion ears from now.

What can we do? We are helpless...

You made a big mistake when you gave him Myungju Castle, Huhwal.

I guess I am largely to be blamed...

But I already knew at the time that Goongyae was not

the true Maitreya.

I thought thiss kingdom needed a temporary leader

until the true king arrived.

The true king? Who would that be?

Well, only Buddha would know that.

But it will be a long time before the new day comes...

Darkness will continue....

Wars will not stop and many more will die....

I cannot see the end... What dreary world this is...

Being back here in Choongju brings back memories.

We were lower rank officers then, but now we are generals.

It means we have added responsibilities.

Yes. As your authority increases, so does your burden.

But many forget that, and abuse their power.

And there is no guarantee that we won't.

We must watch ourselves.

There wouldn't be leaders without followers after all.

You are right.

Sulhee, what are you so intensely staring?

He yearns for his love that awaits him over that mountain.

Please do not tease me. I am suffering tremendous heartache.

I can imagine.

What tragedy it is that you're in love with the enemy's daughter!

I feel for you, Sulhee. Don't you, Geumpil?

Indeed I do.

But it is no laughing matter really. It is truly a tragedy.

I can imagine your sorrow.

Majin's army has arrived in Choongju, you say?

Then Sulhee Park must've arrived as well.

Yes, Father.

What are their movements?

They have not yet made any moves.

What did I tell you?

We don't have to fear as long as Sulhee is here.

You are wrong, Father. He does not decide a war.

He is only a soldier who obeys his superior's commands.

King Goongyae would not have sent Commander Sulhee if he

intends to fight us.

But...

Your father is right. Sulhee would not hurt us.

You cannot be nonchalant about this.

Yesterday's friend can be today's enemy in times of war.

Daeju is right. We must strengthen our defense.

Yes. We must prepare to fight them, Father.

Sure. We will prepare for them just in case.

But I have faith in Sulhee.

I'd like to make him my son-in-law if you approve, Daeju.

Father!

Why do you look appalled? It is not easy to find a man like him.

Don't you agree, Husband?

I couldn't agree more.

He is learned in both civic and military arts,

and he's not half bad looking either.

This is no time for idle chat, Father.

All right, all right.

At any rate, Kyun-hwon will not be still when he hears

of Majin's move.

Enemy troops have been divided into two, you say?

One is standing by in Choongju, and the other

is crossing Jukryung...

And our counter - offense forces?

They await your next command at mae-gok Fort.

We need to send more men.

For which reason, Your majesty?

It will take more men to counter their two forces.

I couldn't agree more. Please send me this time, Your majesty.

Their maneuver denote intent to have localized warfare.

Our currently deployed forces are enough to defend them.

No. We are not fighting a defensive war.

We must show them our true strength this time.

Yes, Your Majesty. This is our chance.

That is right. I've made up my mind.

General Chu,

Yes, Your Majesty.

Take your troops and proceed to Sangju.

Yes, Your Majesty.

General bang will join him.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Allow me to go as well.

Give me a chance to take revenge for the humiliation of Geumsung.

Who will guard the imperial city if everyone is gone?

You will remain here.

Once you're in Sangju, you must control the local castle lords.

They are under my rule, but I do not completely trust them.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Perhaps we should send a special emissary to Lord

Ahjagae in Sabulju Castle.

To my father?

Never mind. It'll be useless.

But exchange is unavoidable once the battles begin.

It would help to establish communication in advance.

I urge you to give ear to the Prime Minister's advice.

As do I, Your Majesty.

Goodness...

Reception will be less harsh if the crown princes were sent.

And perhaps General Chu could accompany them as well.

Do whatever you feel you must.

Mere thought of my father gives me a headache!

Send the crown princes as emissaries, you say?

Yes, Your Highness.

Yes... He would not turn away his grandchildren.

Did you say that they are sending more troops to Sangju?

Yes, Your Highness.

This will be a bigger battle than anticipated.

Not a day goes by without distress...

Why does that cause you alarm?

How large is Bekjae's defensive force?

Nearly their entire army is moving toward Sangju.

They're intend on taking revenge for the last defeat.

Yes.

Frontal attack will prove to be difficult.

Rugged Mountain Pass hinders the passage, and Ahjagae's

castle is in the center of Sangju.

We will buy time with localized invasions of small villages.

Yes. We've gained military superiority since Geumsung

invasion, but we could fall out of control if we b egin to slip.

The country is out of resources and internal trouble surrounding

Ahjitae is extreme.

Yes... It is a most regretful situation...

And I am regretful to be held up here on personal

matters when I should be at the front.

It is only two more days. I envy you, General Wang.

I wish I could forget my troubles and join you at the front.

Why do you say such?

There is too much turmoil in the interior.

Scholar Park, you're here.

Welcome.

Is Advisor inside?

He has gone to the imperial chamber at His Majesty's calling.

The imperial chamber?

The situation at the front has growing intense.

Bekjae's is sending massive force to Sangju...

What adds to my concern is that the Superior Commander

Wang is still not at the front.

But we cannot put off his wedding. Other generals are

competent enough to hold up without him for a few days.

Of course...

Advisor,

Yes, Your Majesty.

I intend to make some personnel changes in the government.

Supreme Councilor Park Jiyoon had become too old for the job.

He is unable to adjust to the fast changes in this government.

Who do you have in mind as his successor?

How do you feel about Wang Pyungdal?

Why? Do you oppose?

He is General Wang's uncle.

Awarding too much political power to one clan is...

It is an unnecessary fear. They are most loyal subjects.

Their combined strength will benefit the country.

Yes, Your Majesty. I would not dare question your decision.

And I think I will appoint Ahjitae as the Royal Secretariat.

Scholar Ahjitae as the Royal Secretariat?

Yes. Royal Secretariat is a spokesman for the royal house

and the closet position to me. He will be perfect for the job.

...Yes.

It seems Advisor is delayed.

How do you see our current domestic condition, General?

What prompted that question?

You're the chief of the royal army that survey's the entire kingdom.

I'm sure you don't need me to tell you. The Kingdom is in turmoil.

Then how do we resolve this quandary?

Well, it seems even the Advisor doesn't have the answer to

that question...

There is a way.

But I do not know how the Advisor will feel about this...

Do tell me. What is the way?

It is quite simple.

It is by combining forces of the Advisor and General Wang.

General Wang is His Majesty's most trusted subject.

He will be swayed if the Advisor and General Wang joined hands.

It does make sense, but...

That is the only way.

But will the Advisor be willing?

I am aware of this aversion toward General Wang, but

they must defeat their common enemy Ahjitae.

Something must be done before things et worse.

The suffering of the people has reached an extreme.

Take the grains!

Hurry!

What's the hold up! Hustle!

What?

Delay the costruction? Are you out of your minds?

The laborers cannot endure much longer.

Cries of resentment are everywhere.

Resentment?

How dare the people of this honorable duty utter such a word?

Please have mercy on the laborers.

Many has already ran away in desperation.

What? Ran away, you say?

It is true. And many more will run without relief.

Silence!

It is your job to guard them!

You've let them get out of control while I was away!

Incompetent fools!

Push them harder!

We are working to build a better world for ourselves!

This imperial city belongs to us! The people of Choongju!

You may go.

Yes.

This doesn't look good. I have to clamp down on

them or they will get out of control.

I wonder how the situation is in Song-ak...

General Wang's wedding is tomorrow...

Wang Guhn...

He is indeed another hero of our time...

Before long his time will come...

Obeisance of the Bride!

First bow!

Second bow!

Obeisance of the Groom!

Wine of Union!

By the wine of union we have declared their union to the gods!

Give them your blessings!

As difficult as this union has been, you must have a

long, happy life together.

Your grace is immeasurable, Your Majesty.

Offer them your blessing Empress.

...I wish you good life.

Is that all you can say? That's my empress for you.

Forget your worries and rest well tonight.

And have a wonderful dream.

A dream of you and me uniting the Three Kingdoms,

and creating a great empire. You and I can do it, my brother.

Dream of our descendants carrying on our legacy of

the great empire forever.