Original subtitles

Do we still have a long way to go?

Hyungnim! Over there over there!

Aigoo! Hello there!

The first thing we must do is buy in all the paper mulberry trees.

It does not matter how much the price is.

Buy them all in as quickly as possible.

Gong Jae Myeong and Jung Nan Jung's trade companies

will buy in all the paper. Before they set out to do so,

we need to buy up all the mulberry trees used to make the paper and raise the price as much as we can.

We ran into some problems.

- What problem? - The paper cost has doubled.

- How? - We don't know why,

but the mulberry tree prices doubled and so the paper costs doubled too, as a consequence.

What?!

What do you mean the mulberry tree prices doubled? Why did that happen all of a sudden?

Aigoo, I don't know why either.

All the other paper merchants told me that they've never seen anything like it!

What do we do now?

What do mean what should we do? We need to buy them up regardless of how expensive it is.

The administrator ordered us to. Do we have a choice?

Did you look into why the mulberry tree prices shot up?

It seems someone bought up all the mulberry trees.

They bought them all?

Yes. At this rate, we will have to buy the paper at triple the usual price.

Wow, even before we start selling anything it looks like we'll suffer losses.

What should we do now, Administrator Sir?

What is the issue here?

If we buy it at a dear price, then we sell it at an expensive price too.

The scholars who will participate in the state examinations cannot do so without paper.

Regardless of the price, we will buy up all the paper.

Don't you worry.

Both trade companies have bought up all of the paper!

Due to us buying out all the mulberry trees, they will have bought it at triple the normal cost!

They must have been in a rush or something. Despite the prices being so dear, they bought it without a moment of hesitation.

Why are you buying the paper at such a high cost?

That is because they are planning on buying high and selling higher.

They say this time, the scholars have to buy the paper used in the examinations themselves!

The examinations... will not take place.

- Huh? - What are you talking about?

What do you mean? How can we make sure the state examinations do not happen?

How will you do that?

Well... Do you know why they are suddenly planning to hold the state examinations?

Of course that would be because we need more government officials, right?

As far as I know, that is not the case.

It's not?

Queen Dowager's plan to renovate the Bongeun buddhist temple

is facing an enormous amount of opposition from the nation's scholars.

So in order to divert their attention and calm them down, they are holding the state examinations.

What?!

The problem is, in order to take the state examinations this time, the scholars need to buy the paper themselves.

However, it will be after the trade companies have already bought in all the paper.

So when the time for the state examination comes, they say the price of paper will rise with no limits.

The lives of the people are swallowed up by poverty as it is...

It will be incredibly unfair for them to have to go through such things.

Of course will be!

We are here to receive your signature of approval for the special state examinations we are to hold.

This is the summary of the agenda with the month, day, and time the examinations will be held, Your Majesty.

- Your Majesty! - There will be no examinations.

What do you mean?

No examinations?

It is exactly as it sounds. - But, Your Majesty!

Due to Queen Dowager's renovation of the Bongeun Buddhist temple,

the opposition from the scholars is growing every day!

At such a time, if we are to cancel the state examinations,

we don't know what the scholars will do!

That's true, Your Majesty. Please reconsider!

If so, we can simply cancel the renovation of the Bongeun temple then.

Your Majesty!!

The purpose of the state examinations is to seek talent to fill government posts,

not to appease public sentiment.

But, Your Majesty! This time's state examination has been planned by Queen Dowager herself!

That's right, Your Majesty. If Queen Dowager were to find out,

she will be very disappointed.

That... is not your business.

There will be no state examinations. Let it be known.

Sir!! Episode 28

Administrator Sir! We have big trouble afoot!

What is it?

The state examinations will not take place!

What are you talking about? Why, all of a sudden?

The king has ordered that the state examinations be cancelled!

The palace has turned upside down because of it.

The king did?

Yes, sir.

Ok Nyeo!

Sir! How did things turn out?

Everything has proceeded according to our will.

Then...

There will be no state examinations.

Daegam! What is going on here?

How could the state examinations be cancelled all of a sudden?

The king has ordered it so.

But you said that Queen Dowager had already given her approval!

You're saying the king overthrew her decision then?

As of late, the relationship between the king and Queen Dowager has been like walking on thin ice.

The king has been

interfering with Queen Dowager's every move.

It looks like we will just have to back off this time.

We thought that the state examinations were happening for sure,

so I got the trade companies to buy in an enormous amount of paper.

If the exams are to be cancelled, we don't know how we will get out of our losses!

When the king told us he would be canceling the state examinations,

that was my biggest worry also.

We will think of ways to recover from this together.

You useless punk! You couldn't even tail her properly and got caught?

I'm sorry.

Who is the man that Ok Nyeo met?

Do you remember the nobleman we were chasing before?

Look here! This is my final warning.

If you drop your weapons now, although I will need to punish you,

I will spare your lives.

Yes, I remember. But who is that guy?

Sorry, I didn't have a chance to find that out.

Your identify has been compromised, So you look for a suitable guy to tail Ok Nyeo again.

Yes, I will.

Aigoo, Supervisor Yang!

Why did it take so long for you to visit again?

Is Yoo Jong Hwe here?

Yes, he is in the tavern room, so hurry in.

Well then.

Supervisor Yang...

- Do you have a stuffed nose or something? - No, no.

Supervisor Yang, do you have some time tonight?

I will leave the gates open a little bit tonight. Do you want to slip in?

You're suggesting just you and I meet in the middle of the night?

Yes, Supervisor Yang. Of course!

No. You're scaring me. You're scary.

He looks fine,

but he is so blunt!

I'll let it go because I'm pretty. Heartless man.

Why are you drinking in broad daylight? Anything the matter?

I'm incredibly unlucky these days.

I think I need to have rites performed on my behalf or something.

I heard you were dragged to the Royal Investigation Bureau and had a tough time there.

Yep. How did you know?

News of you will always end up with me.

I'm Supervisor Yang!

Well then. Why did you ask to see me?

You. Do you know state examinations are to be held soon?

- Yes, I do. - Then from among people around you,

do you have any scholars or noblemen who have signed up to take the exams?

Many! Even someone that is the same age as me.

This punk took the exams so many times,

and he has yet to pass even the initial stage!

He inherited quite a fortune so he lives a prideful life,

and yet to this day he has yet to receive an offer for even an administrator's position.

There is no greater shame than that, I'd say.

Is that so? In that case,

ask him if he is willing to pay for a substitute exam taker.

A substitute exam taker?

Out of all the criminals at the Jeonokseo

there are four guys who passed the state examinations in other people's places.

Their talents are not to be meddled with!

Is that so? But after you've been to the Royal Investigation Bureau recently,

- will that be alright with you? - It's now or never!

If I don't accumulate some money now,

our entire household will be in ruins.

I'll give a portion to you too, so lay a bridge for me.

Alright. Got it.

Got it?

Oh, hello, hello.

Sir! You were looking for me?

You there. Do you know Lee Jong Do? He's one of the guys imprisoned here.

Yes, sir. He was caught trying to take the state examinations under another's name.

Yes, him. Smuggle him out of his cell.

Pardon me? Why?

What do you mean why? Lets have him go at it again for this round's state examinations.

First have him smuggled out of the Jeonokseo.

If things go well, I'll give you more.

Oh yes, sir.

Wow, this is surprising. I'm receiving money from you? Oh and it's heavy too.

Such things happen. You may leave.

Yes, sir. Wow, it is heavy.

There, there. Just put it down there.

One sec.

Man Su! How are you doing?

Hyungnim, how long do we need to work here for?

Punk! Why do you think Ok Nyeo had us work here?

We need to get our hands on some juicy information before we quit.

Even if it's hard, try to endure a little longer. Got it?

Got it.

Head Merchant!

- Head Merchant! We're in big trouble! - What is it?

Hyungnim! You're here!

You punk! Get lost!

Head Merchant...

- What? Is that true? - Yes, I'm sure of it.

What should we do now?

Send in a message to Yoon Tae Won asking to meet him.

Yes, Madam.

Have a seat.

Is it true that the state examinations were canceled?

Yes... His Majesty gave his official decree today.

We bought in all the paper at triple the normal price, trusting your words alone.

Yes, if there is no exam, where will we sell that astronomical amount of paper?

Administrator Sir! Our trade company also used all our funds to buy up paper.

Yes, we did.

Because we weren't able to replenish the funds, we are at a stage where we can't even function to sell other items.

Now is not the time for you to just sit there with you mouth shut.

Please come up with a plan for us.

I will propose a recovery plan soon. Please wait a little.

I will also take care of your funds. So just wait.

- Hyungnim! - What's up?

- Hyungnim, did you hear? - Hear what?

The state examinations were cancelled!

What? Is that so?

Yes, Hyungnim. I also doubted Ok Nyeo a little when she told us there would be no exams,

but it was really canceled!

Aren't Ok Nyeo's predictions extraordinary?

She's not a scholar at the Rites Bureau for nothing!

That can't be. Oh no. Oh no, that can't be.

Hyungnim. Hyungnim! What can't be?

No, nothing. Dang it.

Gong Jae Myeong and Jung Nan Jung's trade companies

must be in an uproar.

Oh of course. They never got to sell the paper they bought at such a high price.

Anyway, how did you know there would be no state examination?

What do you mean, how? Ok Nyeo is an initiated shaman!

That's not it. The important thing now is what lies ahead of us.

We now need to acquire and merge all the smaller trade companies

in Hanyang into one.

Merge all the companies? Why?

Even if the size of the trade companies is small,

we need to acquire the small yet prominent trade companies in order for our plan to unfold smoothly.

In order to do so, we need an enormous amount of funding.

Do we have the money for that?

Don't worry about the money.

This is a list of all the trade companies we are to acquire.

First, Samgye port's Hong Man Jong trade company operates all the ships and boats.

We need the boats and their control over the crewmen.

And Moon Ik Joon's trade company at the Seventh Flag Markets

are trading silk with the Ming.

In order for us to grow our company, we must trade with them.

Please research further into the companies that are listed here.

If they have any difficulties running the trade company,

who their most influential figure is,

and who their supporting thug gang is.

All of it please.

Got it.

- Don't worry. - Brother, brother!

We're all feeling great! Come have a drink with us!

I have somewhere to drop by. I'll be off first.

Hyungnim! Hyungnim!

I'm telling you it's on me!

Why don't you two ask me out for drinks?

Are you two still feeling guilty for pulling a lie on me?

It's all in the past. Forget about that!

It was for Ok Nyeo, right?

I've been in Hanyang for over a month now, yet I haven't even come close to a courtesan house.

Do you two want to buy me a drink?

You were lonely huh? Sounds good! Lets go!

Well then!

There he is!

You there!

- This is the person I told you about. - I'm Yoon Tae Ho.

I'm Yoo Jong Hwe

You both know what is going on here, so we can keep this short.

What about the prisoner who will be taking the exam in his place?

He's already all set to be smuggled out of his cell.

When will you pay up?

I will hand over the promised amount once he passes the exams, so don't you worry.

Good, good. You! Come have a quick chat with me.

What about the cut you promised me?

It's a check for 100 nyang.

I need to leave, so you two talk amongst yourselves.

Alright.

This works out great!

Lets go to a quiet courtesan house and chat a little more.

Lets do that.

Did you meet Yoon Tae Won?

Yes.

What did he say?

He said he will get back to us with a recovery plan.

Yoon Tae Won can't do anything right now.

How could he have known that the king would respond like that.

No, no. Again, because of Yoon Tae Won

we overdid ourselves and used more than we can afford to buy up the paper.

He must take responsibility for this.

You're right. Yoon Tae Won has to take responsibility for this loss.

If he can't come up with a good plan,

I will not let this go.

Madam! It's Jong Geum.

Come in.

What is it?

Daegam is looking for you, Madam.

Alright. Let him know I'll be there in a moment.

Yes, Madam.

You wanted to see me?

Yes, Queen Dowager asked you to come to the palace.

What does she want to see me for?

I don't know that either.

Do you know that our trade company suffered a great loss because of Yoon Tae Won?

Don't even dream of taking Yoon Tae Won's side in front of Queen Dowager.

If he can't come up with a recovery plan, I won't let him get out of this.

Quit the nonsense and just prepare to enter the palace.

Miss, how long are you going to be like this?

Until I can turn the heart of the captain.

Miss, you being like this won't change his heart.

How do you know?

If you continue to be like this, we have no choice but to tell the madam.

If Mom finds out, I'll kill myself.

So you do as you please.

Who are you? What is your identity?

There are people trailing and spying on me. We need to change our meeting place.

Really? Then to where?

I'll be in touch about that later. How are things going over there?

After the state examinations were cancelled, everything was in an uproar.

Tell Chun Doong Orabeoni to meet me at the trade company tonight.

- I will. - Good.

Teacher! Did you give it some thought?

I contemplated deeply over your suggestion.

I will join you and trade with you.

If you will stand by us and help us, it will mean the world to us!

No, no. I am the one that is in need of your help.

What do you mean?

Over the past years, I have been thinking of ways to save the poverty stricken people.

If we can, I want to teach the people about trade

and help them learn how to make a living for themselves.

Teaching some to make goods themselves and sell them,

and teach them that they can put food on the table without owning farmland.

Will you help me?

Of course, Teacher.

Think wisely. In order to do so, we will need a sizable sum of money,

and it means you will take care of the money.

Don't worry. I'll help you.

Your Majesty! Why are you avoiding me.

I know what you will say.

However, no matter what you say, my decision will not change.

Your Highness, the Minister of General Affairs and Madam Jung Nan Jung are here.

Escort them in.

Yes, Your Highness.

Did you look for me?

Have a seat.

Yes, Your Highness.

Your Highness! You have a gloomy complexion. Is something the matter?

If it is because of the renovation of the Bongeun Buddhist temple, you have nothing to worry about.

I will prepare the funds, YourHhighness.

I didn't call you two here for that.

The king's actions are getting out of hand.

He now publicly disobeys me to my face.

Really?

I can't understand how the king could have changed like that.

Do you have any clue what might have happened?

Wouldn't if be because of Lee Jung Myeong?

He must have meddled the king's mind.

Daegam Lee Jung Myung and his followers are under my close watch.

We will soon have a way to destroy him. So don't worry.

If we don't find a way soon, all political power will be in the king's hands. Remember that.

- Yes, Your Highness. - Yes, Your Highness.

I have something to say to Nan Jung. You may excuse yourself.

Oh... Yes, Your Highness. I will take my leave then.

How are things with the Rites Bureau?

The preparations are finished.

Then, let's start.

Yes, Your Highness.

What did you discuss with Queen Dowager?

You don't need to know that.

Let's hear it.

I promised Queen Dowager that I will be preparing the renovation funds for the Bongeun temple.

You?

Yes. What Yoon Tae Won couldn't do, I will do.

As far as I know, the trade company has already suffered a great loss due to the paper buy out.

Then how will you prepare the funds?

You will find out.

Now you're just blatantly looking down on me, aren't you?

Hey! Jung Nan Jung!

I'm Yoon Won Hyung! If you keep angering me, I won't stay put!

Do whatever you want.

What the... I should just...!

Wow!

Not too long ago, a person from Jung Nan Jung visited the Rites Bureau.

- Jung Nan Jung? - Yes.

According to the head of the Rites Bureau, who met with the madam herself,

Madam is trying to move public sentiment by using the Rites Bureau!

Is that true? How so?

I don't know the method yet.

Look now. If what you're saying is true, this is not to be treated lightly.

Are you sure about this?

Yes, Sir. The head of the Rites Bureau told me that this isn't even the first time such a thing has happened.

Did you call for me?

Mother and Jung Nan Jung are scheming together and using the Rites Bureau in the process.

Try to figure out what they are trying to plot here.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Your Majesty. Prince Duk Heung is here.

Oh, escort him in.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Welcome, Hyungnim. Have a seat.

Yes, Your Majesty.

As you directed, I met with Lee Jung Myeong.

Will you help me?

If I won't be a nuisance to you, I will indeed help you.

Thank you. Your help will give me great strength.

Please tell me what I need to do.

In order to strengthen the power I hold, I need to weaken my mother's.

Of course.

But for decades, Queen Dowager has been the highest authority in this nation.

It won't be easy to weaken her power and authority.

That is why I need your help.

Although it may be hard, it is something that must be done.

Hyungnim.

Yes, Your Majesty.

- So Jung! - Sungnim.

- Did you hear? - Hear what?

The state examinations have been canceled, placing Tae Won in a tough situation.

He is drinking and drinking over there. He must be feeling confused.

You should head in for a moment.

Yes, I will.

Sir.

I heard that the state examinations were canceled!

I was royally stabbed in the back by the king.

I need to prepare a fortune to replenish the government funds, but it looks like that won't be easy to do.

I don't think you realize how much power you hold.

What do you mean?

The position of Administrator of the Ministry of Marketplace Order is a better position

than the highest posts in the nation when it comes to holding actual cash in your hands.

If you start a rivalry between the trade companies, the bribery and profit gained from that alone will be decent.

If not for that, if you raise the tax on the companies' trading rights, export and import rights, and even rent,

even if it's a little bit across all of them, that will lead to an enormous amount.

It's not like I don't know that.

It's just that I don't want to.

No, sir. You must.

First and foremost, you need to prepare the funds and earn approval from Queen Dowager. That is the first priority, right?

Don't let go of the opportunity that has come knocking.

Now is not the time for hesitation.

What are you doing?

Why are you so surprised?

What courtesan house is so huge?

Wow! I can't find my way around here at all!

You! Follow me.

Stand here.

- Myo Yang and Shin Bi! - Yes.

You two go and find a cane.

Yes, Sungnim.

C-Cane? For what?

We need to teach you the basics.

Why? If you don't now how to do anything, then at least be sharp at catching onto things.

Since you came here, what have you done besides eat?

You! You don't know how strict the hierarchy is among the gisaengs, do you?

I'll teach you for good tonight.

Lift up your skirt.

You laugh? Are you out of your mind?

Hey, you want to die?

Lets just stop things here.

What?

You two. Do you two even know what I did before I got here?

Do what?

Really though...

I'm a pick pocket!

If you cross the line, I'll not just slit your purse but your faces.

Want a slash?

I want to live in peace, so all of you, leave me alone. Got that?!

I heard you met Tae Won Hyungnim.

I think you are misunderstanding Tae Won Hyung a little, Ok Nyeo.

In my opinion, Tae Won Hyungnim likes you a lot!

When he heard you had been captured by the mountain thieves, he went to the Chilsung headquarters to look for you!

Do you think that's an easy thing to do?

He put his life on the line for you!

Kiddo!

Sorry. I really shouldn't call you kiddo now huh?

Since I saw you last, you've grown into a lady.

Anyway, it's good to see you.

The road to Ming won't be boring.

Interpretation is critical to this deal,

so during the trip to Yanjing, don't get sick or anything. You got that?

If you feel a little off, tell me right away.

What are you looking at?

I'm fine.

Ok Nyeo!

You're here?

Are you alright?

Wow, I nearly died.

I really wanted to see your face at least once before I died.

It looks like I got lucky.

Kiddo!

Are there any ladies you are meeting these days?

I'm waiting for my Miss Yoon.

Hah! Even dogs will laugh at that.

Supervisor Yang!

Oh! What brings you here?

See me for a sec.

I have something to discuss with Constable Yoo. You head in first.

Yes, sir.

- Come over here. - Oh alirght. Alright!

Come here.

What is it this time?

You! You heard the state examinations were canceled, right?

I did.

If you did then you should cough my money back up! Why are you keeping mum about it?

I already used it all.

What?!

Is it my fault that the state examinations were canceled? It's not!

How could you be like this! Huh?!

I don't have the money. You do as you please.

This is driving me nuts!

Supervisor Yang. Why are you being like this?

I borrowed that money to give to you. You can't be like this!

You! If you don't pay me back, I'll expose everything!

Expose everything? Go for it!

Lets see if you will be in bigger trouble for smuggling out a criminal,

or I will be in bigger trouble for snatching some money on an under the table deal.

Expose it! Lets go on trial. Go on! Go on!

Wow... And I considered you my friend.

When things get ugly, you betray me.

I had a drink at Sosoroo.

You! You shouldn't live like this.

You will be punished someday, Supervisor Yang!

Sir! Sir! Where have you been!

Why?

The chief of the Ministry of Justice is looking for you.

What? Chief of the Ministry of Justice?

Yes, sir. Hurry on.

Where were you during office hours?

I had a personal errand for a short while.

I apologize, Sir.

I am here to convey the orders from the Minister of Justice.

M-M-Minister?

Jeonokseo's Constable Jung Dae Shik will be promoted to his original position of prison warden.

And Constable Yoo Jong Hwe will be demoted to associate administrator.

Sir! Demotion?

Why, all of a sudden?

I'm just here to follow the orders of the minister.

I'll be off then.

Thank you! Thank you, sir!

Thank you!

Thank you sir! I'll work very hard!!

Goodbye now.

What is all this about? Huh?

What is going on? This can't be!!!

I went through so much to get here. This can't be!!

This can't happen to me!!

No, no.

No! This is a dream!

This is a dream! A dream!!

Be on your way then.

Wow.

Then I'll leave the Jeonokseo in your care.

Yes, sir! Please travel safely!

I'll work hard!

Thank you sir! Thank you!,

Yes!!!

Travel safe!!

Wow! Lets head in!

Yes!!

Sir... I don't know why I live.

Lets head in.

Wow! Would you look at that.

I knew a day like this would come.

My days of misery are finally paying off!

They said that you can never know what life has in store for you. Ancient sayings are always right. Don't you think so?

Don't you think so, Associate Administrator Yoo?

Congratulations on your promotion...

Congratulations, sir.

Congratulations, sir.

Thank you, thank you.

Associate administrator Yoo. Don't you have anything you want to say to me?

Wow! I feel so good right now.

But with that long face of yours in my face, my mood is plummeting again.

- I'm sorry. - No, no.

From my days as an associate administrator, I have come to realize how important that position is.

You can be aware of the very fine details of issues at the Jeonokseo.

I will revolutionize the proceedings at the Jeonokseo, so all of you best be on your toes. You got that?

Associate Administrator Yoo. You hear me right?

Are you asleep?

Nope.

Heavens and the gods! Are you even up there?

Why are you doing this to me? What did I do so wrong?

Did is really too much!

Where did you get the adornment you gifted to Madam Jung Nan Jung?

I really came across it coincidentally sir.

Untie him.

Yes, sir.

Th-Thank you!

Thank you sir!

You are not being released because you are forgiven.

If you don't find out why the adornment was found at the Jeonokseo,

you will be dragged back in here to be questioned again.

You got that?

Yes, sir.

I will definitely find that out for you. I will find it out for sure, sir!

Clerk Ji! Come here.

Yes, sir.

You know why I became an associate administrator again right?

Hmm... How did you get demoted again?

It's because of that hair adornment!

Although it's late, tell me where you got it from. Where did you get it?

Who did you get it from?

Why are you being like this. I have no clue!

I've never seen the thing. How could I have received it?

You really going to play it out like this?

If I look into it the truth will be revealed!

Go for it! Do as you please!

I don't know anything!

You were looking for us?

We will have a conference with all the chief merchants in Hanyang.

Send out a message to all the trade companies right away.

Yes, sir.

Stay seated.

The reason why I brought you all in for a conference

was to readjust the rights the Ministry of Marketplace Order provided

to the trade companies.

Readjust? Why all of a sudden?

Due to the prolonged years of famine and drought,

I know that the trade companies have also suffered losses,

so I've overlooked a lot of issues in the past.

But now we cannot overlook further losses in government funds.

Therefore, we will begin to incur taxes once again.

Samgye ports, Songpa ports, Gwang ports, and Yanghwa ports

that have rights over the boats and also the ships that transport the taxed grains,

will be taxed 30% instead of the original 10%.

The trade companies that transport goods from the rural areas,

and those that are in charge of transporting goods into the nation,

will be taxed 40% instead of the original 20%.

Moreover, imported items from Ming will be taxed at 50%

and with Japan going to 40%.

And the taxation mentioned above will take effect immediately.

Sir, why aren't we given more time to prepare?

How can you raise taxes so suddenly? This must not be done.

We cannot operate a fleet with such high tax rates!

A lot of money is needed to manage the ships.

I'm sure you, Sir, are well aware.

Up till now, it's because of the low taxes that Ming people are buying many products from Joseon.

If we follow the new tax rates, our trade with Ming will cease, Sir.

- That's right. - This is too much.

Quiet! Quiet! Listen to me! Quiet!

It is because you run your trade companies with such weak mentalities

that you quiver at even the slightest threat.

If you can't handle a weak threat like this one,

hand over your merchant shipping and trading licenses immediately!

Administrator Sir! If you raise the taxes in the same way for all the trade companies

despite them varying in size and operational processes,

the smaller trade companies will surely go bankrupt!

Even then, I cannot make any exceptions.

The survival of a trade company is up to them alone.

How could this be? How are we to trade now?

Distribute the paper you bought to the Ministry of Marketplace Order.

The Ministry of Marketplace Order will buy the paper at the price you bought it.

What will you use all that paper for?

I'll use them for compilation of books.

The increased taxes announced today at the conference will not apply to your trade company,

so you won't be suffering any losses.

Is this good enough as a counter measure?

Yes. I will report this matter to Madam.

Do you think something's up again?

- I wonder, why is he gathering everyone for a meeting again? - Really!

Oh! Chief merchant. You're back.

Why did Tae Won call for a conference with all the head merchants?

That's not going to affect our merchant group, right?

Uncle! When does he intend to compensate us for our losses?

Jak Doo, Do Chi, come inside with me.

- Yes. - Yes, Head Merchant. - Hyungnim...

We have absolutely no funds right now!

When will that be resolved?

What? Has Tae Won gone crazy?

What does he intend to do, suddenly raising taxes by that much?

I think Tae Won must have some hidden reasons.

Tae Won has already changed.

Already changed into a completely different person.

Judging by the way things are playing out,

it doesn't seem right for us to just trust Tae Won and rely on him for our trading.

I've met so many garbage Marketplace Order officials in all my days in the business,

but I've yet to see someone as cruel

as Tae Won is these days.

- Isn't that right? Brat! - Yes?

Head Merchant, I'll go and have a chat with Tae Won.

No. I will go and see him.

Do Chi, contact Tae Won and let him know I want to see him.

Yes, Head Merchant.

Head Merchant is here.

Shall I prepare some drinks and food in a courtesan room?

No. No need. I'm not here to drink.

Can you leave us alone for a while?

Yes, Sir.

Please have a seat.

Are you here because of those matters from the meeting?

Hyungnim, your merchant group will not suffer any losses.

You... What are you intentions?

If you continue to wring them out like this, how will you cope with the backlash?

Queen Dowager personally requested that I replenish the government funds.

Preparing the money for that is my top priority right now.

Don't you see what you are doing?

That's what only Daegam Yoon Won Hyung and Jung Nan Jung will do!

Tae Won, I won't make you give up everything you have now.

But, don't do anything you will regret.

I'm saying this because I'm sincerely worried about you.

Did you find something out?

Yes, Lady. They say she used to be a maidservant in the royal kitchen.

Well done.

I used to work at a tavern, so this shouldn't be too difficult.

All you need to do is to get acclimatized there

until Daegam gives special orders.

I understand.

Sungnim!

My name is Su Ok.

- You used to be in the royal kitchens? - Yes.

That was in the past.

Please remember that I am in charge of this household's kitchens.

If you don't win my favor, I can kick you out at any time.

- I understand. - Well then. Should we see your cooking finesse?

You prepare Madam's dinner for tonight.

I will.

Are you alright?

Are you Head Merchant Hong Man Jung?

Yes I am. Who might you two be?

I am Jun Woo Chi, a trade company owner in Jeonju province.

Will you strike up a deal with me?

Yoon Tae Won will be raising the tax for the trade companies.

The trading rights and import and export privileges...

Any tax we pay in order to operate a trade company will be increased.

In that case, they will be able to recover their losses from the paper fiasco in no time.

He truly isn't one to treat lightly...

For now, rather than butting heads with them

it is a higher priority to acquire and combine the other trade companies.

Wh-What happened?!

We were beaten up by Hong Man Jung.

For what?

No reason at all.

He may be known as a salesman, but he's really just a thug!

I asked him to strike a deal with us, and he just started punching us.

Why this punk. I tried to deal with him in a civil way, but that won't do.

Men like him can't be dealt with in a civil manner. We have to strip him of everything he's got.

I'll try.

You can't get through to him with words!

It will be better for us to take matters into out own hands.

It's not the time for you to step in yet, Ok Nyeo.

Yoon Tae Won incurred an enormous tax raise on the trade companies.

Luckily, that means our trade company won't suffer any huge losses.

He also said we can distribute the paper we bought to the Ministry of Marketplace Order.

That's good. I knew Yoon Tae Won will tie things up well.

As expected, a sly one indeed.

Have you completed preparations for tonight's mission?

Yes, Sungnim.

It is to honor Queen Dowager's orders,

so we have absolutely no room for mistakes.

I understand. Don't worry.

What is it?

Thirty-thousand nyang, Your Highness.

I heard that your plans on trade paper amounted in nothing due to the cancelation of the state examinations.

Then how did you prepare this large sum of money?

I prepared it by raising and collecting taxes on all the trade companies in Hanyang.

Did you come across any opposition?

I have a strict hold on the trade companies. You don't need to worry about backlash at all.

Well done.

You're all ready to go, right? Lets head out.

Yes!

Hyungnim! Where are you off to?

- You don't need to know. - Hyungnim! I want to go too!

If you need anything, I'll help out!

This punk... I don't need you!

Aish... Man Su. Man Su!

- Tail them and find out what they are playing at. - Huh? Me?

Who else is here, you idiot!

Oh, it's time for your regular beating huh? Get a move on! Go!

- Oh alright. - Hurry!

Aish, where are they off to?

This way.

You all need to be absolutely on top of things. Got that?

- Is everyone here? - We are ready.

Lets go.

I am sure you are well aware of what your mission is tonight.

Should your mission be exposed, not only will you lose your lives, it will bring big trouble to Daegam and the madam.

You must carry out this mission prepared to end your life instantly should you become exposed.

- Got that? - Yes.

- Start. - Yes.

- Make your moves. - Yes.

This way. That way.

The rest, follow me.

Your Majesty, the Minister of General Affairs and the Minister of Rites are here.

Have them come in.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Have a seat.

Yes.

What brings you here?

Your Majesty, there's big trouble.

There's a plague rampant in the city.

Did you say a plague?

Yes, Your Majesty.

At the people's clinic, dozens are showing the same symptoms.

Not only that.

Cows and horses are vomiting blood and dying so peculiarly.

People are very distressed. We must come up with a solution soon.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Queen Dowager.

What is it?

There's a plague going among the people,

and cows and horses are vomiting blood and dying peculiarly.

Really?

Does the king know about this?

Right now, the Minister of General Affairs and the Minister of Rites are meeting with him.

Alright. You may leave.

Yes, Your Highness.

Administrative scholar! The head of rites is looking for you.

Alright.

A plague?

Yes, a plague is spreading, and cows and horses are vomiting to death.

We need to conduct a ritual to appease the public sentiment. Make the preparation.

Sir, could this be linked to Madam Jung Nan Jung and Queen Dowager?

Did Madam Jung Nan Jung not say anything?

I only received the order to prepare the ritual.

But a ritual won't resolve this if those two are behind this.

Oh ho, watch what you say!

You must never say that anywhere.

Speak wrong and your life will be in danger.

Yes.

Your Majesty.

Did you find out?

There are truly soldiers fallen to the plague.

It is true that cows and horses died after vomiting blood.

Is there any evidence it is linked to my mother and Jung Nan Jung?

Is there any trace to their fabrication?

Such evidence was not discovered.

What to do?

Alright, you may leave.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Ok Nyeo, you're here!

Why isn't anyone here?

Don't even mention it. There's a plague going around the city.

There's no trace of anyone anywhere.

This is really bad.

Is Chun Doong inside?

Yes. He's inside. Go on in.

Yes.

Orabeoni.

Did you find out anything?

The other night, Dong Chang took a dozen workers from the company out.

So I had Man Su tail them.

You know who Min Dong Joo and Jung Mak Gae are, right?

I do.

I think those two sent Dong Chang and the company men out.

There were up to something but I couldn't hear it.

Ok Nyeo!

Where is the lord?

- Follow me. - Yes.

Sir. Did you wait long?

No, no. I just got here.

So, there's a plague and peculiar things are happening inside the city, just as you predicted.

What do you think? Is this fabricated by Jung Nan Jung and the Queen Dowager?

I am suspicious but I have no proof.

If your suspicion is right,

what do you think the reason is to be risking the lives of the people in carrying this out?

I don't know that yet.

But I'm certain we must find that reason in order to prepare a countermeasure.

Try to find out and I will try to find out the truth as well.

Yes. I will find out for sure.

Alright then.

But did you meet Jung Nan Jung again after last time?

I haven't.

Sir.

What is it?

There's the plague and strange happenings taking place.

I believe it is linked to Jung Nan Jung.

You try to find out the truth and report back to me.

Yes, Your Majesty.

Ok Nyeo!

What brings you here?

I have something to say to you.

I'm sorry. I have nothing to say to you anymore.

♪ When I be able to go over the wall and hear you? ♪

♪ Swallow up the night and rest ♪

♪ Go on that peach road we walked on together ♪

♪ and come to me like in the dream, will you? ♪

The Flower in Prison

Are you aware that there's a plague going around the city?

Then, are you perhaps behind this?

I need your help.

For innocent people to suffer is

not acceptable.

Stop being so naïve! This is politics.

Aren't people saying that the plague is because the king is unworthy? I think it's best you stay put.

What do you mean by that?

Why is it that you only see one thing and not the big picture?

What's urgent right now is to appease the public sentiment.

- Let's go. - Yes.

Now I know why the captain had such a sudden change of heart.

It was because of that girl Ok Nyeo.

I won't forgive that wench, Ok Nyeo.

♪ What I wrote in my memory ♪