Original subtitles

What is this?

It's my resignation.

If that's not enough, take my life as well.

You'd sacrifice your life to save a spy?

Which King do you serve?

Killing the spy is tantamount to a declaration of war.

Treacherous chaos and confusion will befall upon this kingdom.

You think I will lose Joseon to the barbarians?

We cannot take a country that is yet to solidify its foundation to war.

You must find an effective solution without exhausting great resources.

We can't kill them like this.

Not after all that we went through to catch them...!

Then why don't you die for them?

Minister of Rites Hwang Hee is hot the man he used to be.

He's been making one wrong decision after another.

Commence execution!

Do you wish to live?

They did not kill the leader of the spies?

Luck is turning in our favor.

Send a message to the palace at once and get what we need.

We could lose our chance if we don't act quickly.

Yes, sir.

Information...

A book with detailed information about Japan?

I thought you might know.

Who are you?

What's your identity?

Identity?

The spies get captured as soon as I give you their composite sketch,

and now you want information about Japan.

You can't fool me. You're not a government officer.

But you're so eager to do government work.

Reveal your identity, or I'm not going to cooperate.

Can you keep a secret?

Can you promise me never to tell anyone else about me?

I promise. I'm a man of my honor.

I never betray anyone, especially those who pay for my drinks.

I'm a Joseonese.

Huh?

Aren't you the one that said every Joseonese has a duty to serve Joseon?

History of the Three Kingdoms...

History of Goryo, chapter on King Gongmin and chapter on King Wu,

Romance of the Three Kingdoms, New Book of Tang, Old Book of Tang,

Book of Sui, Book of the Later Han...

Slow down.

Trash it.

Huh?

Sorry I had you write them all down, but you might as well trash it.

You mean you've been kidding me?

No.

Then never mind and just finish the list for me.

I can list them all, but there is no way you can get those books.

There's only one place you can find them and that's the Royal Library.

They're deep inside the palace.

Just finish the list. I'll get to them somehow.

I got it!

What is it now?

I know who you are, sir.

You have deep connections to the Royal palace. Am I right?

How did you know...?

I knew it! There is no fooling Yun Hwe.

You've been fixed under your pants, haven't you?

You're...

a eunuch working for the Crown Prince. Right?

Royal Library

Inspection rounds completed. All in good order, sir.

Are you sure you weren't followed?

Joseon is in secret contact with Japan?

You are holding the proof in your hands.

Japan invaded Joseon, but Joseon did not suffer any actual losses?

Not only that,

the government is protecting a Japanese spy.

Why would they unless the two countries are in contact?

I need time to verify the validity of this document.

And give the court of Joseon time to cover it up?

How about hastening your return to Ming?

If you report this on time, you'd be hailed a hero for stopping Joseon

and Japan from rising up.

Is that so?

I want double this time.

We're dealing top government secrets.

I'm risking my neck here.

Come to my office. I'll give you triple.

Today's lecture session will be on chapter five of The Zhenguan reign's

essentials of government.

Lecturer.

Any ideas?

Your Majesty...?

Spies are roaming freely on our streets in broad daylight.

What's your response?

This is the royal lecture session, Your Majesty.

We have no time to sit around chatting about books when the country is in a mess.

This is a time of learning.

You must distinguish it from affairs of the state.

Don't even think about teaching me until you find a solution.

Identity tags.

That's the solution, Your Majesty.

We can monitor and control the people if we identify each of them with tags.

That will also help in ferreting out criminals.

Minister Park will stay and the rest of you are dismissed.

No, Your Majesty.

What did you say?

To discuss a new policy, it must first be reviewed by proposing

bureau and approved by the Supreme Council.

Who cares about process when the country is in danger?

If you ignore the due process and rule alone,

history will remember you as a tyrant.

Then I shall be a tyrant. It's better than losing the country.

Don't you know the decision making process?

Effective problem solving is more important than following procedures.

I've had enough of your disobedience!

Submit a report at once and undo this.

What is your opinion, Minister Hwang?

Do you think I'm wrong as well?

You're talking about establishing new laws.

Without sufficient review and support, there could be severe repercussions.

I think we should bear the repercussions and not waste time with formalities.

That's the biggest difference between you and me.

Do you want to make an enemy of all of the senior statesmen?

The Supreme Council appoints the chiefs of the six ministries.

You can't make an enemy of Prime Minister Ha Ryun.

It's fine as long as I don't make an enemy of the King.

Minister...

It's been two decades since this regime came into power,

and we still don't have firm control of the people.

Joseon will not last fifty years at the rate we're going.

We must stop Minister Park Eun's arbitrary actions.

No, it's the King's arbitrary actions we must stop.

That's our duty as his Royal subject.

That's my point exactly.

Frankly, were the ones who put him on the throne.

If he becomes despotic...

we can choose a different King.

Choose a different King?

Prime Minister, perhaps you should have a talk with the Crown Prince.

You might find a way to break through this crisis.

Hey.

You're an audacious little brother

telling your older brother where to come and go.

What is all this?

These are books with information about Japan.

If we study them...

It will help us learn about the Japanese?

Yes.

These are decades if not hundreds of years old.

It won't help us get a grip on Japan's current situation.

Your Highness...

What we need is current information. We're better off using the spy.

What if the spy brings back false information?

We should at least have basic knowledge to test the spy.

You're a bookworm and you think like a bookworm...

Your Highness...

Chances are it'll be a waste of time,

but I won't stop you if you really want to do this.

Call a servant.

That's okay. It makes me feel full just carrying them.

Books are to fill your head with, not your stomach.

What brings you to the Royal Library, Your Majesty?

What would bring a bookworm into a library?

Are you taking those books to the Royal villa?

Is there a problem with that?

Books in the Royal Library are forbidden from being taken outside.

A Royal prince can't do what he wants with a book?

That's the policy, Your Highness.

Then I'll have to change that policy.

Books are for reading, not for decorations.

Let's go.

But...

Let's go.

Organize a special artillery army?

If we form a powerful artillery army equipped with explosive weapons,

not only the Japanese but the Chinese will not be able to take us lightly.

It's a very good suggestion but not an easy one to carry out.

First, that will require a huge budget.

We can collect special taxes.

Strengthening the borders is for public safety.

No, that would take too long.

I will reduce my office's annual budget by one third,

and urge the office of the former

King and the Queen to cut back on their budget as well.

You are a ruler of divine descent, Your Highness!

Grant me the pleasure of having you in my home tonight.

We have so much to talk about,

and you've rendered so many extraordinary achievements lately.

I'd like a chance to show you my appreciation with a few drinks.

I'm afraid I must refuse.

You mustn't reject your father-in- law's invitation, Your Highness.

I've been so busy lately that I haven't had any time with the Crown Princess.

I thought I'd spend some quiet time with her tonight.

Your Highness...

He is divine descent!

Who knew he was such a loving husband as well?

You're looking for shade to rest under a dried up leafless tree.

Trees row strong if ou water them and nurture them with love.

Who knows?

I might be sitting tall on top of it one day.

Be careful, General.

If you climb without knowing where you're going,

the only place you will end up is straight down.

I might gain wings and rise like the morning sun.

The Crown Prince called the ministers her to discuss state affairs?

Senior statesmen including the Prime Minister are already

viewing his proposal to install a special military force.

First he plays soldier and now he wants to play King...

Is it decent?

Father, what brings you here?

What does one do at a target range?

Nothing is better at clearing your head than target practice.

If you don't mind, may I stay with you?

I'd mind if you left.

Thank you, Father.

Let's shoot a few rounds.

I must find a way to destroy the Crown Prince...

Only then... a path to the throne will open up for my son...

His Majesty presented Kyoungnyeong with a bow?

That is no cause for concern.

You didn't have to trouble yourself coming here.

His Majesty has never bestowed such grace to the Crown Prince

much less to the other princes.

His Majesty feels guilt for that child.

It's natural that his heart would go out to the less fortunate one.

Your Highness...

But I appreciate this.

I will never forget how deeply you care about the Royal family.

Are you concerned about His Majesty's actions?

Don't ask such an obvious question.

You looked so unconcerned when the Royal Attendant was here.

I don't believe everything he says.

But send him a decent gift.

I can't trust him completely, but I don't want to make an enemy of him either.

And...

Yes, Your Highness.

Pick someone from our staff to plant in Hyobin's quarters.

If that's too hard, see if there is anyone in her staff that we can buy off.

We must watch her carefully and catch her in the act.

So I can crush her futile dream...

I am very surprised that you turned down Minister Gim's invitation.

I'm not interested in sitting around with bunch of old men.

Besides, there is no gisaeng he can call that could come close to that girl.

That girl, Your Highness?

When will you stop this childish behavior?

When I get an answer.

You must be frustrated with the ex-King who can't satisfy you.

Come to my room tonight. I'll take very good care of you.

What do you think would be easier?

Hitting the bull's eye or getting her out of the ex-King's villa?

Your Highness...!

Return the books to the Royal Library?

It's against policy.

But...

I'm very concerned about your actions lately.

I know that you are behind the capture of the spies as well.

Did you tell him?

I've been an administrative official for decades now.

She doesn't need to tell me for me to know that much.

I practically begged the deputy

director to give me one day to get those books back.

So please return them and stay out of state affairs.

You already know that all it takes

is one throw of a pebble to create a storm in the royal court.

How could you let your pupil do this?

Is it the Princess you are concerned about?

Is there something wrong with that? I am her father.

You are a Royal subject as well.

What's your point?

Thing will not always stay the same.

So what are you saying?

That when the Crown Prince rises to the throne,

he will put Prince Choongnyeong to important service?

When the vessel changes the contents change as well.

Don't be naive.

The brothers may be thick as thieves right now,

but once he rises to the throne, an able brother is an enemy.

Time to review the books?

I'm afraid I can't.

I want to compile a reference book with information about Japan, so please...

Please don't make me repeat the policy again.

All I need is five, no, four days will be enough.

You're going to read dozens of books in four days?

Would you give me the time?

And write a reference book on top of that? It is not possible.

Would you call it even if I do manage to compile a reference book in four days?

Well, I'd have to see your work to give you that answer.

An artillery army is premature.

National defense is top priority.

Will the country crumble right now if we don't have an artillery army?

If we spend great resource to build this army,

Ming china could question our motive creating diplomatic troubles.

- But... - I don't want to hear any buts.

Just postpone the project.

Where are we with the identification system?

A detailed proposal is ready.

Then put it into action. What are you waiting for?

We have not been able to secure budget and staff...

- Prime Minister. - Yes, Your Majesty.

Channel whatever is left of the budget to the Ministry of Personnel.

And take the loafers in the Crown Prince's office and the office of the former King

who are lounging around under the pretext of serving the Royal family

and put them to work. Got that?

Didn't you hear me?

Yes, Your Majesty.

As you wish.

Why did you reject the proposal to install an artillery army?

I did not reject it. I postponed it.

If the budget is the problem,

I will surrender the entire budget allocated for my office.

It's not that simple.

First and foremost, the timing isn't right diplomatic relations wise.

So Ming is the problem once again.

Until when? Are we going to tip toe around Ming forever?

Leave your emotions out of state affairs.

Politics is sober reality.

What good is any of this if you can't give your people pride?

The people will not fear the King or the government that

is obsequious to another state.

Having respect for a senior state is not cowardly.

It is a realistic diplomatic policy.

I don't agree.

You will just have to study and learn until you do agree.

Father...

It's too soon for you to get yourself involved in state affairs.

Remember that the Crown Prince is a king-to-be, not a King.

You are requesting half of my Royal staff?

It is His Majesty's policy to reduce the budget by one fourth as well.

Policy...

Then this is not a request but an order, is it not?

Your Eminence...

What if I refuse to obey? What would you do then?

Must I explain how important this identification system will

be in establishing a firm foundation of this country?

First you give me an order and now you want to lecture me?

Your Eminence!

Did you wish to see me, Your Majesty?

I called you out so you could relax a little.

I heard you've been giving the Crown Prince lessons in politics.

Aren't you pushing yourself too hard when you're busy

as it is with affairs of the Supreme Council?

I believe it is a part of my duty...

You're not the Crown Prince's teacher. You re the Prime Minister of this state.

No, you are the Prime Minister.

What?

Your Majesty has been taking care of all of my official duties.

So what are you going to do? Speed up the Crown Prince's future?

I am simply trying to make certain that he does not follow your footsteps.

A repressive King cannot win his retainer's trust,

and a King is not a King without his royal retainers' trust.

So you teach him to obsess over military affairs

and blather about nonsensical policies?

I heard he's given up his study lessons all together.

Did you know that?

I don't believe I am to blame for that, Your Majesty.

He grew up watching the King constantly ignore his senior statesmen.

How could he have any respect for his teachers?

Perhaps you should choose a new mentor for him.

Find a man who will teach him from the basics and make him a benevolent King,

so that he won't have to put up with audacious retainers like you.

My brother the Crown Prince's mentor?

I appreciate your offer to put my humble brother to such important service,

but it is not a good idea.

Your Highness...?

Uncles should remain uncles and

do no more than give the Crown Prince support and encouragement.

Don't you agree?

Of course, Your Highness.

If Magistrate Min becomes the Crown Prince's mentor,

the world will see that as Min clan's attempt to control the Prince.

And His Majesty will not be pleased about giving off that impression.

Find another man that will not upset the King

among those who will abide by your will, of course.

You'd like me to be the Crown Prince's mentor?

May I ask why?

Must I explain the reasons for every one of my commands?

Just do a good job.

I'm giving you wings here.

I do not want these wings, Prime Minister.

If you wish to give me a promotion, I prefer to climb one step at a time.

It's not easy for a man to be as steadfast as you are.

And nothing gets by you.

Has it been twenty years already?

Since the day you came to me seeking to be my pupil, that is.

I can't accept any preferential treatment, Prime Minister.

Do you really think this is a favor to you?

Then have I been recognized as a useful spy for making a report

about Minister Hwang overstepping his authority?

You seriously underestimate my capabilities.

I don't need you to be my spy to run this administration.

You are the best scholar Joseon has.

And your meticulous personality is

just right to keep the hot-blooded Crown Prince at bay.

Go and get some rest now.

Why?

Are you afraid I might make a mistake?

No, it s not that.

Then does it make you feel uncomfortable having me by your side?

Yes, I feel uncomfortable.

Our baby is probably angry with me for making you work so hard.

No, I'm sure the baby is happy to watch you working so passionately.

What is the meaning of this?

It's you welcoming, Master.

This is the least I can do for my new mentor.

Your Highness!

My birds will keep you company today.

I have more important matters to attend to.

What could be more important to a Crown Prince than his study lessons?

I don't know.

Please get back inside.

What will His Majesty say when he finds out about this?

Perhaps I'm bothering you when you're trying to take a nap.

No.

Get some rest now.

You don't have break laws reading the sutra to nurse this sick old man.

I'm just sorry there isn't much else I can do.

Heaven works in mysterious way...

How did a man like your father produce a son like you?

Your Highness, the Crown Prince seeks your audience.

What brings you here?

I heard you were not well.

Did the King send you? To see if I'm any closer to death?

No, Your Highness.

Then what possible motive could you have to pay me a visit out of the blue?

Don't get so tense. I'm just playing with you.

Old age is sickness of itself...

You don't have to worry.

You've become thin.

It must be hard nursing an old man.

Your Highness looks well.

Owing to your recent heroic accomplishments, no doubt.

Is this your way of thanking me?

It is my duty as a citizen of Joseon.

I can think of better ways you can thank me.

It's not enough. I can't call this a reference book.

Your Highness...

I have to go to the Royal Library I need to find more books.

Enter the palace at this hour without advance notice?

You will be misunderstood.

There isn't much time.

I promised Deputy Director Byun that I would have this ready by tomorrow.

It's useless.

You saw the fuss they made over borrowing a few books.

They will never let you into the Royal Library at this hour.

The Crown Prince called a woman into the East Palace?

Is this what they call a chance of a lifetime?

Um Jachi and Jeong Ogeun...

What's your business at this hour?

We have an urgent message for the Crown Prince.

Aren't you coming?

Yes?

Huh?

Let's go, Brother.

Brother?

Oh yeah, I'm coming. This is urgent business...

You sent wine and food to the East Palace?

Crown Prince is already twenty years of old.

He should be taught proper manners of drinking by an elder.

I thought perhaps tonight might be a good time.

Some other time.

Please.

The Crown Prince will be disappointed.

He has upset you recently with his impetuous actions,

but he was serving the country.

Give praise and admonishment where they are due.

It will strengthen the future of this state.

First you travel incognito and now you're wearing a eunuchs uniform.

His Majesty will faint if he saw you like this.

Be quiet and just follow me.

Your Highness!

Your Highness!

His Majesty... His Majesty the King is coming!