Original subtitles

How dare you continue!

Please control yourself, Your Majesty!

You've heard him! He says I will bring down this kingdom!

There are my own brother's words!

Prime Minister,

Yes, Your Majesty.

On second thought, I think these words are your words.

Aren't thet?

Answer me! Neungyae is speaking your words, isn't he?

Yes, Your Majesty. That is correct.

Correct? Correct, you say?

Correct?

Yes, Your Majesty.

Correct, you say?

Yes, Your Majesty.

You dare patronize me, Prime Minister?

No, Your Majesty. How could I patronize my king?

Then do you call this?

You are my sworn brother, and Neungyae is my blood brother.

How dare you come here lecturing me!

The kingdom will fall if Shin-guhm doesn't inherit

the throne, you say? And how have I defied reason?

Your majesty, I have spent my entire life

as your loyal servant. My life is yours anytime you ask.

But somewhere along the way you have begun to change.

Change? How have I changed?

You've begun to pay no need to your loyal subjects and

gave your confidence to the treacherous few.

It appears the two of you have a death wish!

Listen. History has displayed that nit takes very little to

bring down a kingdom. I do not condemn Shin-guhm.

I am simply trying to secure the future of this kingdom!

But Your majesty...

I'm not finished!

I will acknowledge your hard work and loyalty.

But who cares mores about this kingdom than I do?

Who founded this kingdom? It was I!

And I, too, am doing this for this kingdom!

Get out of my sight!

Deign to see, Your majesty.

There will be evil consequences if you veer from the right path.

Evil consequences? Is that a threat?

Your Majesty

Your majesty, I beg you to pay heed to your loyal subjects.

Leave! Leave at once!

Your majesty...

Leave, I said! Leave , I said!

Contemptuous fools!

Your Highness, we are nearing Moonso Fort.

It is odd. The enemy shows no reaction to our approach.

Our scouts have not returned either. Perhaps something has

happened at the enemy camp.

Yes. We should've run into the enemy's line of defense by now.

That's right. What could be happening?

There they are! Our scouts are returning, Your Highness!

Supreme Commander

Report the situation in Moonso County.

Rejoice. They await your army with their gates wide open.

What? Do you mean they have surrendered?

Yes. An internal revolt erupted resulting in the death of their

leader Hong Sul, and his subordinates have surrendered

to Bekjae.

It sounds like there was an internal conflict.

It's another dull battle, Your Higness.

Yes...

As His majesty has said, nothing could be better

than triumph without bloodshed. let us proceed.

Advisor, did you say nothing could be better?

His Majesty wanted to send Geum-kang to this battle, but I came

instead. What will he say if I gain the fort without a fight?

He will say that it is no accomplishment at all.

General Yaesul is right. It is a dull battle.

In any case, their leader is dead and the fort is ours to take.

Koryo has run out of luck. Their people have once again

surrendered to us without resistance.

It's human nature.

We kneel before the strong, and step over the weak.

Moonso County has surrendered! Proceed forward!

Welcome, Prince Shin-guhm.

Wich one of you is the leader?

I am the leader.

Does the head on the bastion belong to your castle lord?

Yes. He was slain because he wanted to fight a hopeless war.

Yes. It's better not to fight a battle you can't win.

But you have killed your superior. This is not to be praised.

It's a Koryo messenger!

Commander, I come from neighboring Soonju Fort.

Soonju Fort? That belongs to Koryo.

We wish to surrender to Your Highness's army.

Every man has his day. Moonso Fort opens its

gate and all around it are jumping on the bandwagon.

Fine. Inform your lord to prepare to great us.

Yes, Your Highness.

Your day is coming, Your Highness.

Forts of all sizes are kneeling before you.

Last year it was Sangju, and now you have subjugated Moonso

Yes. All that is left standing is Gochang now. Koryo's front

line will be completely cut off once Gochang is ours.

Let us enter the fort. Yes... Our only problem is Gochang.

We will discuss our strategy inside.

Yes, Supreme Commander.

Enter the fort! Enter the fort!

We've lost Moonso Fort.

I heard the report, Your Majesty.

Nearby Soonju Fort has surrendered as well.

Yes, Your Majesty.

We've lost most of sangju, and local powers of bordering forts

are lining up to surrender to Bekjae. We are helplessly

watching while our enemy continues gain upon us.

...Yes, Your Majesty.

Moonso Fort is a serious loss. This puts Gochang in danger.

Our path to the south will be cut off if they surrender as well.

Say something, Choi Ung. What is your plan?

You won't let me do anything but watch and let this happen.

What are you trying to do?

You've suffered repeated defeat in the last few years, Your majesty.

That's all the more reason to continue fighting!

You are a smart man, Choi Ung. Have you given up? Is that it?

I feel like my heart will explode with pent-up frustration.

Every kingdom has its day as do every man, Your majesty.

Suffering and pain continues while ill fortune is with us.

Such were the last few years.

Then how much longer must we like this?

It is almost time. Bekjae has been lucky, but not anymore.

The reason why I restricted our military action was to sift our

our true ally.

What do you mean?

When you were defeated at Mt. Gong battle, local lords began

to ponder with whom to cast their lots with.

Many turned to bekjae causing the blight in samnyun fort.

Yes, that is true.

Now it has become clear who is friend and foe.

Samnyun, Sangju, moonso and Soonju have turned to Bekjae.

But there has been no word about one place that we are

most concerned about Gochang.

And?

King Kyun-hwon's pillaging of Surabul and slaying of Shilla's

king has becomle widely known. The question was how this

immorality would be seen by the world.

Do continue.

You became an unselfish emperor who suffered great pain while

attempting to save your ally from danger.

Another words, you have won the contest of cause.

I have gained nothing. What do you say I have won?

Shilla is a kingdom with a thousand-year history.

Though it has split into three now, people throughout the three

lingdoms still harbor sympathy for Shilla.

And though many have surrendered to KingKyun-hwon out the fear,

you are the one they respect and admire.

I could not have suffered such humiliation if that were true.

Things will change from now on. It requires time and patience

to win the hearts of the people. You have done your time.

What do you mean?

Many are surrendering to Bekjae's fierce force,

but Gochang has yet to show any reponse.

They are surviving retainers of Shilla who have been loyal

to Shilla for generations. I am certain that they have

enmity for Kyun-hwon for his abuse in Surabul.

Their lack of response to Bekjae's pressure is the proof.

You have found your true ally. And a long-term strategy cannot

be devised without knowing your real friend and foe.

Gochang region is your most important main artery in the

campaign for unification.

And if I am right, you have found true ally there.

True ally... True ally...

Is this what you've been silently looking for all this time?

Yes, Your Majesty.

Oh my...

Is the Minister of Military still in the imperial chambers?

Yes, Your Highness. They have been talking since this morning.

Fresh tea was served just moments ago.

I feel like this kingdom is sinking into a swamp.

It seems like all I hear these days is about betrayal and defeat.

I know. Imagine how upset His Majesty must've been to punish

the families of the betrayers that way

The entire country is in a somber mood...

Yes. The subjects are in a meeting at the supreme Council.

When will we be able to have a restful night of sleep?

Minister of Military is still in the imperial

chambers with His Majesty.

The situation at the front is getting worse. I'm sure

Minister of Military has much to discuss.

I don't understand why are not taking any action when our

forts continue to fall into the hands of Bekjae.

I'm sure Minister of Military has a plan of some sort, but

I fear the enemy is gettng too close to the capital.

Yes. There is a limit to our patience.

The kingdom could crumble at this rate.

They have been talking since this morning.

This must be a very important discussion.

Moonso and Soonju Fort have surrendered, and now Gochang

is in danger. I am sure as anxious as we are.

This is a crisis. Chances are Gochang wll surrender

as well like its neighbors Moonso and Soonju.

This is truly frustrating. Not knowing the strategy of

our ministry of military is adding to my frustrations.

How are things in Pyongyang, Captain Wang?

The border has become rather vague since Khitan conquered Parhae.

You will be happy to know that we've taken advantage of this

opening to recapture much of the Old Koguryo territory.

Be alert against Khitan. They are not hostile now,

but be prepared for conflict once they are settled.

Yes, it's good advice. But I have the region under control.

Our defense force has grown to over 5000 troops.

It is now beffiting of its nickname West Capital.

I am quite disturbed to hear about the continuing hardship

in the south. They tell me that you saved His Majesty's

life at the last battle.

I was merely doing my duty.

Yes, but witnesses say you were like Warrior Zhao Zilong of China.

Terrified Bekjae troops ran for their lives.

Praise is undeserved. The battle ended in defeat nonetheless.

I any case, I have a feeling this lengthy meeting in the

imperial chambers might yield good news for us warriors.

Good news? What would that be?

What General Park here has been longing for.

What does every warrior want?

Why, to go to war, of course. What else? Right, Brother?

I have a feeling you might get your wish.

Continue. Tell me more about Gochang.

Gochang has been loyal to Shilla because of its castle lord Kim

Sun-pyung, local magnate Kim Hang, and General Jang Jung-pil who

leads a strong militia force. These three men are very close,

and Kim Hang is of Shilla's royal descent. So imagine how

they would view King Kyun-whon's savage acts in Surabul.

I see what you mean. Now tell me about Lord Kim Siun-pyung.

He has been loyal to Shilla for generations but began showing

interest in us when loyalty to Shilla became unrealistic.

Yes...So this is what you meant when you said we must

sift out our friend and foe.

Yes. Men are fickle.

Whom can we trust in this time of uncertainly and betrayal?

I urged you patience so that we can find a reliable ally.

I understand. Then what is Jang Jung-pil's backround?

He is second generation Chinese with broad mind and large scale

who quickly became one of the wealthiest barons of Gochang.

It sounds like you've done thorough research.

A war cannot be avoided here.

We will have to go to their aid if they resist Bekjae.

That's right. Bekjae has already begun to move, so we should send

message of support to Gochang for now and observe the developments.

I understand.

Gochang is an important place.

I advise you to send a higher official as an envoy.

Fine. Would the royal secretariat be suitable?

Yes, Your Majesty.

I wonder...Perhaps the King of Bekjae will come out to

the battlefield himself.

Would you like to see him?

Do you blame? He has caused me dreadful humiliation.

I believe you will see him.

Gochang is many times more important than Moonso of Sangju.

Acquiring it is as good as acquiring half of the Three

Kingoms. He will come. King Kyun-hwon is an avaricious man.

Yes. He will come. He will...

Your patience has been tested and your time has come.

You will soon find out what you're been waiting for.

I hope...I hope you are right.

Koryo is breaking apart!

Did you hear the news? Shin-guhm hasentered Mooso Fort!

He has acquired Soonju Fort as well!

Your favorite prince Shin-guhm was very lucky this time.

Moonso is an important place that we must have in ordered

to strike Gochang.

We bekjae army has won consecutive overwhelming

victories against Koryo!

Yes, Your Majesty.

Our territory now extend out to Chungju, Samnyun, Choongju to

the north, and DAeya, Daegu, Chilgok and Moonso to the south.

Not only that, the entire Nakdong River region has become ours.

Your world has come, Your Majesty.

It is the fruit of all of your hard work.

Your grace is immeasurable.

Yes. Shin-guhm has done a good job. He is improving.

Yes, Your Majesty. Prince Shin-guhm accomplished a huge task.

I urge you generous praise.

Yes, I will give praise where praise is due.

But the enemy surrendered without a fight. What is there to praise?

Theseforts practically landed on his lap.

Nonetheless it is an accomplisment.

Send him words of praise and encouragement, Your Majesty.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Prince Shin-guhm's exceptional leadership and influence led

them to surrender. Acclamation is due.

It was the eminence of this kingdom, not Shin-guhm's

leadership that led them to surrender.

Geum-kang would have produced the same result.

Isn't that right, Geum-kang?

No, Father. The subjects are right.

Brother Shin-guhm has rendered meritorious service.

You defend you because you are his brother.

Fine. Whether he fought for it or not, a gain is a gain.

I will reward him by sendiing him food and wine.

Your grace is immeasurable.

Now let us discuss what to do about Gochang.

Your Majesty, Prince Shin-guhm is already there with is army.

Allow him to press forward and strike Gochang.

Your Majesty, Prime Minister is right on this.

Please leave Prince Shin-guhm in command and send him aid.

No, you are wrong. Gochang is a region controlled by descendants

of Shilla royalty. And they have a strong private defence force.

I must go myself.

You're probably feeling confined at the palace.

You will come with me.

Your Majesty, allow us to accompany you as well.

You, Brother? No, you may stay behind.

Both you and the Prime Minister are too old for the battlefield.

I will allow you to rest.

Vice Prime Minister will come with me, though.

Your majesty, I urge you to stay in the capital.

Please leave this battle to Prince Shin-guhm.

I said no. Gochang is not a fort to take lightly.

Its neighboring forts have all surrendered, but they

show no sign of resignation.

Your Majesty, please command the operation from the capital.

It is such time.

Do you think that I am old as well, Vice Prime Minister?

You want me to rest? No, I cannot do that yet.

Not when we are facing this important battle.

If you enter this battle, Koryo will deploy their royal army to

challenge you.

That is what I want. I'd love to see Brother Wang Guhn again.

I intend to end this war once and for all in Gochang.

Surely Koryo has the same intent.

After all, they know the great importance of Gochang.

Collaborate with Prime Minister and mobilize an army of 20000

for this battle.

Total of 25 000 including Shin-guhm's army will suffice.

Yes, Your majesty.

Wang Guhn... Gochang...

This will be another battle to remember.

Begin preparations, Geum-kang.

Inspect your officers and the quartermaster corps as well.

Yes, Your Majesty.

And set an exemple for your older brothers.

Some at this court will not stop praising Shin-guhm, but show them

what a true warrior is and how a war is really fought.

Yes, Your majesty.

This will be a huge battle. both kingdoms have a lot at stake.

The king of Koryo is likely to come to the battle himself.

It will be an intense war since both sides have a lot

to lose in addition to heightened enmity.

Yes, and it will be that much more dangerous.

Naturally...

It is for such danger that the successor is designated,

but we are still unprepared.

Our attempts to get prepared has alienated us from the court.

It seemed His Majesty's mind is made up about his successor.

He was outwardly mocking Prince Shin-guhm in front of his younger

brother Geum-kang. That was no praise. That was ridicule.

I cannot say that you are wrong. This is a crisis, Prime Minister.

I have a bad feeling that something will happen once

this battle is over...

Whatever do you mean? Like what?

Somthing dreadful... I just have a bad feeling...

Then we must stop it.

We elders must stop any impending tragedy.

Let us concentrate on battle preparation for now.

This is a very important was.

We will speak to his Majesty once again when it is over.

Are you certain this food and wine is from His Majesty?

Yes, Your Highness.

I am surprised. There is first time for everything.

His Majesty must be delighted.

I was told he has sent a letter as well.

Yes, it was a letter of praise for acquiring Moonso and Soonju.

It is proof that His Majesty is coming around.

It is indeed. Moonso and Soonju are important forts because of

its proximity to Gochang. How could he not be pleased?

His Majesty's interest will become deeper now that he is

coming to the front himself.

Of course.

It will take a collaborative effort to conquer Gochang.

This is a golden opportunity for you to display your

competence to His Majesty.

This battle is not to be taken loghtly.

Gochang and Koryo forces will not be easy to conquer

unless we work very closely together.

So this is a great chance for His Highness to prove himself.

That's right. Luck has not been with Prince Shin-guhm

in the past, but this is truly a golden opportunity.

Let us do our best. But I feel ill at ease in Father's presence.

Something always goes wrong. Nothing works out as it should.

Brother Wang Guhn will make a move once he learns about

our move. I do miss him.

It is a mysterious fate, Your Majesty. King Wang Guhn has

slipped through your hands and escaped death time and again,

but you still speak of him as if he were your good neighbor.

A good neighbor...That is a good description.

It is true. Brother Wang Guhn and I have no bitter feelings

on the personal level. In fact, we admore each other very much.

But the constest for mastery of the three Kingdoms has

made us enemies.

This battle in Gochang will require caution.

The local lords are not to be taken lightly.

They belonged to Shilla in the pastn, but Shilla is finished.

Surrender or death - they will make their choice.

Send a messenger to Shin-guhm and instruct him to urge surrender.

Yes, Your Majesty.

And I want detailed reports about Koryo army's movements.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Release the operatives and investigate the enemy's

movements!

And deliver his majesty's order to Prince Shin-guhm!

Yes, General!

King Kyun-hwon of Bekjae is headed to Gochang.

The time has come at last.

I know the pain and frustration you've endured.

Your grace is immeasurable.

Our Ministry of Military has concluded the analysis of the

state of the peninsula, and we are now prepared to face

Bekjae in Gochang. Minister of Military will continue.

Yes, Your Majesty.

The king of Bekjae is leading his army of 20000 to Gochang

as we speak. Including Sghin-guhm's army in Moonso and the

private militia force of the surrendered local lords,

we will be up against roughly 30 000 troops.

Such large force?

Yes. It is unfeasible for us to mobilize a force of that size in

the time we have. Hence we will be taking 15000 troops.

Your Majesty, I am overjoyed to take to the battlefield

again at last.

Repressing the frustration and rage has been a true torture.

It is warriors' delight to be able to do our duty.

Give us your command, Your Majesty.

Give us your immediate command.

This waiting has been truly hard to endure.

But the enemy is twice our size, and Gochang's stance

is yet to be known.

That is true. We've suffered before by acting without full

knowledge about the enemy...

We have sent our emissary, and I'm sure Bekjae has made

contact with them as well.

The local powers of Gochang will soon make a decision.

Will His Majesty be in personal command of this battle?

Of course. This is a battle that wil purge our past

disgrace and decide the outcome of the fight for unification.

But the enemy has overpowered us with consecutive victories,

and their army is twice our size. We must practice utmost caution.

There is no battlefield without danger.

I urge you to send the Prince Imperial instead.

Yes, Your majesty. allow me to go on your behalf.

Yes,Your Majesty.

We urge you,Your Majesty.

I agree with General Park. Your Majesty is of the age now.

It is befitting of the prince to go to the front in your place.

I agree as well. I urge Your Majesty to remain in the capital.

Life and death is God's will.

Am I to hide in my palace when the enemy king is coming to fight me?

You have accurately predicted the result of my previous battles.

How about this time? Do I run from the enemy

in disguise of their foot soldier again? Speak.

What I tell you is only your fortune.

Your Majesty has suffered many adversities in the recent past

because the Three Disasters were in your stars.

The Three Disasters? What is this?

There are three kinds of disasters that afflict every

human in nine-year cycle.

These disasters are pestilence, wae, and famine.

These disasters are collectively called the Three Disasters.

The disaster of famine passed for you in your youth,

pestilence passed for you at Jomul Fort, and the disaster

of war passed for you at Mt. Gong.

In other words, all three disasters have passed.

Your majesty, this time you will win.

Your majesty, your royal advisor and soothsayer

says that you will win.

I never pay much heed to astrology, but this certainly

is not unpleasant.

These were years of shame and disgrace.

I must exact revenge. I must.

Prince Imperial and Captain Wang will take temporary

control of the imperial capital.

And the rest of you will all come to Gochang with me.

Prepare to depart for the battlefield.

Yes, Your Majesty.

There will be no retreat in this battle.

If I returndefeated, I will not be breathing.

I will not return alive if I fail.

This is my vow to all of you, so prepare yourselves as well.

There will be no defeat in Gochang.

Never!