Lovers of the Red Sky (2021–…): Season 1, Episode 7 - Episode #1.7 - full transcript
(This drama is fictional and people or stories are not tied to reality.)
Today, the painters gathered here at Maejukheon...
gave me hope for the future.
This Maejukheon Painting Contest was the most strenuous ever.
You all did very well.
This...
concludes the Maejukheon Painting Contest.
(Hong Eun O, ex-Gohwawon painter, Hong Cheon Gi's father)
Master Ha Sung Jin, get out of here!
My gosh.
What happened?
Your Highness.
I will stop the Demon!
Do not look into its eyes!
I will...
Dad!
That's Eun O.
- Dad! - Eun O!
Eun O!
I apologize, Prince Joohyang.
He is my father.
He is not in his right mind. Please be merciful.
I apologize.
Your Highness. Please...
I'm sorry, Hoo.
All that happens in Maejukheon is my responsibility.
If you wish to punish someone, punish me.
Yul.
As the owner of Maejukheon, you should act appropriately.
Hoo.
Are you aware his penalty should be death?
Yes. I am the one who should die.
If you acknowledge your father's mistake,
it would be your duty as his daughter to take his place.
You are right.
If your father lashed out due to his madness,
you can pay the price instead.
Am I not right?
This is my last act of mercy.
(As great as the river and sea)
Answer.
Will you be punished in your father's place?
(Cha Young Wook, Choi Jung)
She can't. No.
- Yes. - Hoo.
Yangmyeong, act with authority as a prince should!
If you pick a fight with me now,
it will be because of this painter.
If you insist on going against me,
my anger will only worsen,
and her father who could've been let off with his life...
for a mere mistake might end up dying.
What do you say?
Will you give up your hand?
Yes, Your Highness.
Whatever the punishment, I will accept it gladly.
- Oh, dear. - It's out of place to say so,
but it would be a waste of 300 bags of rice.
I valued your talent and bought your painting for 300 bags of rice,
yet you forgot your place.
Your Highness.
I cannot give 300 bags of rice to a painter with a lowly father.
However, I cannot recover what has already left my grasp.
Prince Joohyang.
I am blind and failed to distinguish...
a good painter from a lowly, foolish one,
and eventually it led to her displeasing you greatly.
As a token of apology, I would like to give you 300 bags of rice.
May I do so?
Scholar Ha.
My brother already said we should stay out of it.
However, I am troubled that you feel bothered about this.
Hoo, with your grace as wide as a river and sea,
how about you accept Scholar Ha's offer?
Scholar Ha.
For this female painter,
are you willing to give up anything?
What is it that you want?
You can have it as a price of my foolishness.
Very well.
I will not take this further, since Scholar Ha has pleaded.
(Choi Won Ho, Master of Baekyu Painters Society)
(Han Geon, Gohwawon Expert)
I will be in touch.
I'll be waiting for that day, Your Highness.
Yangmyeong, if you fail to act with dignity...
and get involved in such matters again,
I will punish you.
I understand, Hoo. I apologize.
Get up.
- Cheon Gi. - Dad.
- My gosh. - Dad.
Dad.
Dad.
Painter Choi Jung.
- Let us through. - Dad.
Come along. Come on. Hurry.
Thank you, Scholar Ha. It has been a long day.
We'll talk about this another time.
Yes, Your Highness.
Come and see me.
Yes, Your Highness.
(Episode 7: Reunion)
She didn't hesitate to paint forgeries
to make money to buy medicine for her sick father,
So, that is how all this happened.
Yes.
It makes sense.
I see it now.
That is what happened.
Master Ha Sung Jin, get out of here!
I will stop the Demon!
Do not look into its eyes!
Yes, Your Highness.
Whatever the punishment, I will accept it gladly.
For this female painter, will you give up anything?
I will be in touch.
My lord.
You are back.
Yes.
Did you find out about the second-round paintings?
Can they be bought at an auction?
From what I found out,
all paintings from the second round belong to Prince Yangmyeong...
as host of the Maejukheon Painting Contest.
Is that so?
Shall I purchase them in Wolseongdang's name?
Where is Jung Seon Rye?
Locked up in Wolseongdang.
Please let us live.
I was going to leave with my men...
Do not harass the female painter named Hong Cheon Gi anymore.
Take the silver and call it even.
How do you know about her, Chief?
Do not ask questions.
If you go against what I say,
it will not end with a warning.
I understand. Do not worry, Chief.
It's time to see the investigator.
(Investigator Kim Gong Rae)
My lord. What is this about?
Did you think the prince would not know?
Or...
did you think you could...
forever hide your loyalty to the King?
Kill him.
All this is the will of the heavens.
Do not resent me.
Father.
What they did to you,
I will do the exact same to them.
(Investigator Kim Gong Rae)
(Deceased)
(King Seongjo)
(Prince Joohyang)
(Prince Yangmyeong)
You will be next.
(Mi Su)
Om maha hum svaha.
(Mi Su, Seongjucheong's 4th head priestess)
The one who bid the highest price for it...
was Scholar Ha?
Yes, Your Majesty.
How did you recognize the special painting?
Is your sight beginning to return?
I'm sorry to say that my sight is still the same as before.
But my servant drew on my hand as he explained the painting,
and the judges' comments...
almost made the painting appear before my eyes.
So I wanted it for myself.
I wish to see the painting soon.
Let's hurry.
The flowers...
survived the cold of the moon,
and stand upright with more dignity than anything.
This is the painting that real butterflies landed on,
shocking everyone who was present.
The technique of this painting is smooth and almost shines.
The touches are delicate.
(Touches made with the brush)
It truly has great energy.
The more I look at it, I see a mysterious painting...
with a strange energy.
What painting is this?
This painting is a depiction of butterflies...
chasing the fragrance left in the hoof prints of a horse.
It's so real, I can almost hear and see the movements.
The Crown Prince is sickly...
and my mind is full of worries.
This offered me great comfort.
As the purpose of the Maejukheon Painting Contest,
this painted reached the top...
with only their skill and regardless of her class or status.
She may be a woman, but she has such great skill.
Wouldn't it be right to let her enter Gohwawon?
Keep her close and let her comfort you.
She is the painter you searched so hard for.
Is that so?
Is it...
not you who wants to keep her close?
Pardon?
I only made the suggestion because you have been...
looking for a painter with exceptional talent.
It was a joke.
Let's do that.
I give the command.
Accept Hong Cheon Gi into Gohwawon.
For three months, have her work during the day
and have her work on the portrait at night.
I thank you, Father.
The special painter to repair the king's portrait?
Goodbye, then.
You can go.
Your Highness.
Wait. Scholar Ha.
It won't take long.
Scholar Ha.
There's something I'd like to know about that painter
called Hong Cheon Gi.
You may ask.
Okay, so...
Are you and Painter Hong...
very close?
We first met in the dye house.
When she brought the list of attendees to Maejukheon,
I thought her relationship with you seemed unusual.
I meant to ask you about it.
Watch it. Why would you say that?
We're not that close yet.
"Yet"...
did you say?
I mean...
What am I saying?
No matter how well you wrap an incense stick,
its fragrance will travel long distances.
I am...
interested in her as a painter.
We should go.
The King had been searching for a special painter.
The female painter called Hong Cheon Gi who won...
the Maejukheon Painting Contest.
He commanded she be accepted into Gohwawon.
A special painter?
Was that why...
the contest was held?
There must be a reason the King...
was looking for a talented painter.
The painter's father mentioned the Demon.
He must know of it.
However...
I wonder why Father had her accepted into Gohwawon.
You should look into that.
Do you have an idea?
Sim Dae Yu.
He was Hong Cheon Gi's rival until the very end of the contest.
How...
shall we use him?
With black magic.
I take a thorn from a citron tree with his blood on it,
stab it into a straw figure and cast a spell on it.
If I must go, I must go
Once the black magic makes a connection with him,
I can control him whenever and wherever.
In other words, he becomes my pawn.
We then place that pawn next to the special painter.
So we can find out what it is...
the King does with that talent.
Wouldn't casting such a spell come with great risk?
Yes. One who casts such a dark spell...
also suffers grave consequences.
However, no harm will come to you.
Did you get the medicine?
I almost did.
I don't think I can now.
I heard that Yeowoon Port...
is where Yeon smugglers dock.
You might be able to find it there.
I have no money.
Too bad. He's running out of time.
How much is the medicine?
At least 300 bags of rice.
What? 300 bags of rice?
Give him the medicine I made three times a day.
That will keep him going for the time being.
Okay.
- Get back safely. - I will.
Cheon Gi. I think I was wrong about it.
About what?
I will take good care of your dad.
You should join Gohwawon.
What do you mean?
The King commanded that as the winner of the contest,
you are to join Gohwawon.
I can't do that when Dad's sick.
I'll plead for mercy and tell them I can't.
Do you think this is something you can go against?
My dad could die at any moment.
I can't stay out all day long.
Then don't go.
Gohwawon is just a place...
What did I tell you?
Entering the contest will only
draw attention to you and get you in trouble.
Still, if only Dad hadn't shown up that day,
I could've gotten my hand on that Chungsimwon.
Well, yes, that's true.
How about you join Gohwawon first,
and then figure out the next step?
Master, do you want me to go or not?
- Will you go? - No.
- Then don't go. - Master!
Did she say she would join Gohwawon?
I pleaded with her as best I could,
but she insisted on staying here.
Why are you still here anyway?
Even after Eun O got sick,
I was too busy fending for myself to look out for him.
And I didn't know he had a daughter.
I don't deserve to sit there and work.
If she joins Gohwawon, I will make it up to them then.
Geon, the problem is,
Cheon Gi is adamant.
She's more stubborn than 3,000 people combined.
Even if she must jump into a lake with her work,
she will not join Gohwawon.
We cannot hide her talent now the whole world knows about it.
We cannot stop her from becoming what she's meant to be.
Don't whine about it to me. I didn't say anything.
Because I got the impression you're reluctant.
Will you go against the King's command?
Would I dare go against the King's command?
But I must admit I am concerned.
What if...
she becomes like Eun O?
What happened to her father was an accident.
Cheon Gi will be different. I will protect her.
If she paints the same thing over and over at Gohwawon,
she will lose the dangerous talent you're so worried about.
Have you forgotten?
Eun O also painted the same thing over and over at Gohwawon.
Your Highness, Expert Han Geon is here.
So, did you see her?
How is Painter Hong doing?
Do you know when she will join Gohwawon?
It seems she will need more time.
More time?
She seems to think she cannot...
work at Gohwawon, leaving her mad father at home.
She's willing to disobey the King to care for her father.
What great filial loyalty.
The man who sprayed ink on my brother.
He is Hong Eun O who painted the portrait?
Yes.
Cheon Gi has been caring for him on her own for years.
A crazy father.
It must weigh heavily on her.
It must.
The Big Dipper shines extra bright tonight.
You are to observe the stars, not share your sentiment.
Is that so?
Welcome, Scholar Ha.
Since you went missing, our lord...
told me over and over again to stop you from joining the observation.
Please don't reprimand me.
Observing the stars is the only joy in my life.
Okay.
Did you enjoy the painting contest?
There's talk that a whole new level of painting was revealed.
It was a special contest in that...
painters were judged...
regardless of class or social status.
Regardless of class or social status?
Did any of the paintings stand out...
I apologize.
Did any of the paintings stand out?
Yes.
It smelled of peaches.
- There's the Big Dipper. - Really?
The night sky from that night.
Painter Hong.
What?
Oh, Your Highness.
Why are you so surprised?
Well...
What brings you here?
I happened to...
hear about your father Hong Eun O.
I apologize.
I was a huge nuisance.
I don't know how to make up for it.
It's fine.
In this world,
there are painters...
who add strange energy to their work.
Do you know...
who that is?
It's Painter Hong.
Pardon?
Is there another painter named Hong?
Who is that?
Me?
You said that I failed to find my own style of painting.
(One's way and style of painting)
I'm glad you recognize my skill now.
Do you really have no humility at all?
What is that?
Is it a food?
I don't know about that.
What I'm saying is,
will you not use your skill for me and for our nation?
At Gohwawon.
- The truth is... - I know.
You cannot join Gohwawon because of your sick father.
That's what you'll say.
I will look after him.
- Pardon? - I, a royal prince,
will take good care of your father.
You don't have to do that.
I'm not shameless enough to accept that from you.
It's not out of generosity.
Did you ever wonder...
why your father went mad?
Well...
Do you know the reason?
When I was young,
I stood in awe as I saw my grandfather's portrait.
It had been painted by a gifted painter,
and my father is still looking for that painter's descendant.
That gifted painter...
is your father.
Perhaps your father...
lost his sanity while painting my grandfather.
That's what I thought.
Why would you think so?
After I...
After I saw the portrait as a child,
I was unable to control myself for a while.
I felt as if I was not myself.
If I felt that way after just looking at it,
What would your father have felt when he created it?
What do you say?
Will you not join Gohwawon and find out the truth with me?
Me, Han Geon,
and the master of Baekyu Painters Society.
We will check on your father every now and then.
It's not like you'll never see him again.
After your work at Gohwawon is done,
you can come to visit like I did tonight.
So...
What about my wish?
The Chungsimwon.
I asked...
the Palace doctor to make one.
Is that true?
Is that truly true?
Yes.
Thank you, Your Highness. Thank you.
Thank you, Your Highness. I'm really grate...
Are you that grateful?
Yes.
I'm truly grateful.
Don't worry about anything else...
and think about it.
Give me an answer when you pick up the medicine at Maejukheon tomorrow.
Tomorrow afternoon?
Yes.
I will see you then.
Yes, Your Highness.
Have a safe trip back.
Me, Han Geon, and the master of Baekyu Painters Society.
We will check on your father every now and then.
My dad...
was a gifted painter.
Perhaps your father...
lost his sanity while painting my grandfather.
What do you say?
Will you not join Gohwawon and find out the truth with me?
Dad.
Cheon Gi, you haven't had lunch yet, have you?
Eat all you want and tell me if you want more.
Thank you.
Thanks for the food.
Master Choi.
What?
Have you still not held Ms. Gyeonju's hand yet?
(Kang Chun Bok, Baekyu Painters Society's secretary)
That's just cruel.
Hasn't it been going on for 20 years?
You'll never find someone like her.
I know.
Wait, what?
Before you regret it,
pluck up the courage to do what you want or must be done.
Cheon Gi...
What are you talking about?
Don't talk nonsense at the table and eat.
I enjoyed that.
I made up my mind.
About what?
I'll join Gohwawon.
You will?
Yes.
I'm finished, so please excuse me.
Where do you think you're going?
Prince Yangmyeong said he'll help me get my father's medicine.
I also want to tell him that I'm joining Gohwawon,
so I'm heading over to his place.
Are you saying Prince Yangmyeong granted your wish?
He did.
One second.
Here.
What is this?
This is...
You put my tiger drawing on this silk scroll.
(Tiger drawing: Drives out evil, Silk scroll: Used like a frame)
It was a shame to simply use it to drive out evil spirits,
so I kept it with me.
Prince Yangmyeong loved the drawings you made,
so take that with you.
If you do not know when to be grateful,
you're no better than a beast.
Master Choi!
Goodness, you're suffocating me. Let me go.
My goodness, I can't breathe.
- Thank you. - My goodness.
Don't forget.
You're a painter of Baekyu Painters Society,
and you're my pupil.
I'm saying...
you're a part of Baekyu Society until the day you die.
Do you understand?
Master Choi, how long will you keep saying these things?
It's not like I can't come out once I join Gohwawon.
Forget it. There's no talking to you.
Run along.
Go.
Goodness.
I won't forget.
When everyone laughed and said a blind kid can't paint,
you didn't.
How you were thrilled when I could see again.
How you never said anything even though I used...
more ink sticks and paper than anybody.
And that I'm a painter of your Baekyu Painters Society.
I will never...
I will never forget.
Okay.
My goodness, Cheon Gi.
I'll be back.
Okay.
Cheon Gi.
Have a pleasant time.
I hope nothing bad happens.
Cheon Gi will do well.
And...
Why? What? Why do you look at me...
I'll muster up my courage too.
What do you mean?
My goodness.
- Take it. - My gosh, it's all right.
Dad!
Oh my.
Hey.
Old lady.
Show me the painting.
Sorry?
No, not this one. This one belongs to someone.
(Old lady Samsin: The giver of life)
The owner has changed.
Sorry?
- That's why we should... - I told you already.
All done. It'll find its owner now.
Sorry? What do you mean by that?
You keep trying to steal my painting...
What?
Old lady.
Where did she go?
She was here just now.
Anyway, is that old lady a ghost or a human?
What?
What?
What?
Wait, I keep walking and walking, but why do I always end up here?
Did I get bewitched by a ghost in the middle of the day?
I always have the worst day whenever I run into that old lady.
Excuse me.
Is anybody here?
Excuse me.
May I ask you something?
Goodness.
What brings you here?
Oh, you're the scholar's servant.
What brings you here?
Because this is Scholar Ha's home.
Of course, I should be here.
What?
This is...
Scholar Ha, you're here.
Yes, Man Soo.
This smell...
Do we have a guest here?
Yes, my lord.
It's me, Scholar Ha.
Have you been well?
Yes, I've been well.
So what brings you to my place?
Oh, well. I somehow ended up here.
This is great.
I had something to tell you.
Do you?
Please come inside for a chat.
I wanted...
to express my gratitude and apology to you.
Thanks to your kindness, I took first place in the contest,
and you saved...
my father's life.
What you're saying is too much for buying just a painting.
And you paid 300 bags of rice to buy that painting.
The auction made me bid more.
That's no reason for you to apologize to me.
It's your great painting that became the first place.
When Prince Joohyang said...
he'll hold my father responsible for his actions,
I regretted everything.
I shouldn't have participated in the painting contest...
- or have taken the first... - We both did...
what had to be done.
I went to Maejukheon...
looking for a nice painting.
And one day, if I ever get to see again,
I want to see that painting.
I didn't do this just for you and your father's sake.
Don't let this concern you anymore.
Scholar Ha,
how do you live with everything piled up in your heart?
If that boy I knew grew up,
I thought he would look like you.
But I was mistaken.
That boy doesn't want me to recognize him.
I don't know what the story is,
but I'll keep it that way.
Keep what that way?
If that boy...
didn't want me to recognize him,
he probably died,
or he must have a reason to live as if he was dead.
I'm saying I decided to live as if I don't recognize him.
- Is that so? - However,
I'll remember this moment for a very long time.
I'll remember my gratitude, how pleasant it is to see you again,
and all these concerns.
If I do that, I'm sure...
this moment will linger with me as a good memory.
One day,
in your life,
if you ever...
face another tough day, making it tough for you to keep your promise,
on that day,
please don't forget...
there was someone who trusted and waited for you...
through all these years.
Please don't mind everything I just said to you.
Please excuse me.
I had to go somewhere, but I came to the wrong place.
I can't do this.
Are you about to stand in the rain until you soak it all up?
Your Highness.
Grab that side.
Let's go.
Are you in pain?
I'm all right.
You have a fever.
This isn't good.
- Get on my back. - Sorry?
I'm all right, Your Highness. How could I do that?
Stop it. This is the Prince's order.
Get on my back.
But...
I know you're a woman, but you're too thin.
Your Highness.
Why are you so kind to me?
Because it hurts.
Sorry?
My heart aches whenever I see you.
We need to find shelter from the rain.
Stay with me for a bit.
Is that you, Scholar Ha?
Scholar Ha.
My apologies, Your Highness.
I was to meet her first.
(Lovers of the Red Sky)
We have a month.
We must hurry up and restore the late King's portrait.
Father.
I will never let anybody take my position away.
You must confirm the Demon that resides in Scholar Ha's body.
Let me introduce our new painters.
You'll take a different job and work with me by night.
Prince Yangmyeong?
What brings you here?
We must spend every night together, so just get used to it.
Every single night?
Your Highness, do you wish to put Lady Hong in danger...
to satisfy your curiosity?
Are people's destinies already decided at birth?
In the world I live in, yes.
Then it's meaningless for people to do their best.
I apologize, Your Highness.
I cannot let Cheon Gi go like this.
Today, the painters gathered here at Maejukheon...
gave me hope for the future.
This Maejukheon Painting Contest was the most strenuous ever.
You all did very well.
This...
concludes the Maejukheon Painting Contest.
(Hong Eun O, ex-Gohwawon painter, Hong Cheon Gi's father)
Master Ha Sung Jin, get out of here!
My gosh.
What happened?
Your Highness.
I will stop the Demon!
Do not look into its eyes!
I will...
Dad!
That's Eun O.
- Dad! - Eun O!
Eun O!
I apologize, Prince Joohyang.
He is my father.
He is not in his right mind. Please be merciful.
I apologize.
Your Highness. Please...
I'm sorry, Hoo.
All that happens in Maejukheon is my responsibility.
If you wish to punish someone, punish me.
Yul.
As the owner of Maejukheon, you should act appropriately.
Hoo.
Are you aware his penalty should be death?
Yes. I am the one who should die.
If you acknowledge your father's mistake,
it would be your duty as his daughter to take his place.
You are right.
If your father lashed out due to his madness,
you can pay the price instead.
Am I not right?
This is my last act of mercy.
(As great as the river and sea)
Answer.
Will you be punished in your father's place?
(Cha Young Wook, Choi Jung)
She can't. No.
- Yes. - Hoo.
Yangmyeong, act with authority as a prince should!
If you pick a fight with me now,
it will be because of this painter.
If you insist on going against me,
my anger will only worsen,
and her father who could've been let off with his life...
for a mere mistake might end up dying.
What do you say?
Will you give up your hand?
Yes, Your Highness.
Whatever the punishment, I will accept it gladly.
- Oh, dear. - It's out of place to say so,
but it would be a waste of 300 bags of rice.
I valued your talent and bought your painting for 300 bags of rice,
yet you forgot your place.
Your Highness.
I cannot give 300 bags of rice to a painter with a lowly father.
However, I cannot recover what has already left my grasp.
Prince Joohyang.
I am blind and failed to distinguish...
a good painter from a lowly, foolish one,
and eventually it led to her displeasing you greatly.
As a token of apology, I would like to give you 300 bags of rice.
May I do so?
Scholar Ha.
My brother already said we should stay out of it.
However, I am troubled that you feel bothered about this.
Hoo, with your grace as wide as a river and sea,
how about you accept Scholar Ha's offer?
Scholar Ha.
For this female painter,
are you willing to give up anything?
What is it that you want?
You can have it as a price of my foolishness.
Very well.
I will not take this further, since Scholar Ha has pleaded.
(Choi Won Ho, Master of Baekyu Painters Society)
(Han Geon, Gohwawon Expert)
I will be in touch.
I'll be waiting for that day, Your Highness.
Yangmyeong, if you fail to act with dignity...
and get involved in such matters again,
I will punish you.
I understand, Hoo. I apologize.
Get up.
- Cheon Gi. - Dad.
- My gosh. - Dad.
Dad.
Dad.
Painter Choi Jung.
- Let us through. - Dad.
Come along. Come on. Hurry.
Thank you, Scholar Ha. It has been a long day.
We'll talk about this another time.
Yes, Your Highness.
Come and see me.
Yes, Your Highness.
(Episode 7: Reunion)
She didn't hesitate to paint forgeries
to make money to buy medicine for her sick father,
So, that is how all this happened.
Yes.
It makes sense.
I see it now.
That is what happened.
Master Ha Sung Jin, get out of here!
I will stop the Demon!
Do not look into its eyes!
Yes, Your Highness.
Whatever the punishment, I will accept it gladly.
For this female painter, will you give up anything?
I will be in touch.
My lord.
You are back.
Yes.
Did you find out about the second-round paintings?
Can they be bought at an auction?
From what I found out,
all paintings from the second round belong to Prince Yangmyeong...
as host of the Maejukheon Painting Contest.
Is that so?
Shall I purchase them in Wolseongdang's name?
Where is Jung Seon Rye?
Locked up in Wolseongdang.
Please let us live.
I was going to leave with my men...
Do not harass the female painter named Hong Cheon Gi anymore.
Take the silver and call it even.
How do you know about her, Chief?
Do not ask questions.
If you go against what I say,
it will not end with a warning.
I understand. Do not worry, Chief.
It's time to see the investigator.
(Investigator Kim Gong Rae)
My lord. What is this about?
Did you think the prince would not know?
Or...
did you think you could...
forever hide your loyalty to the King?
Kill him.
All this is the will of the heavens.
Do not resent me.
Father.
What they did to you,
I will do the exact same to them.
(Investigator Kim Gong Rae)
(Deceased)
(King Seongjo)
(Prince Joohyang)
(Prince Yangmyeong)
You will be next.
(Mi Su)
Om maha hum svaha.
(Mi Su, Seongjucheong's 4th head priestess)
The one who bid the highest price for it...
was Scholar Ha?
Yes, Your Majesty.
How did you recognize the special painting?
Is your sight beginning to return?
I'm sorry to say that my sight is still the same as before.
But my servant drew on my hand as he explained the painting,
and the judges' comments...
almost made the painting appear before my eyes.
So I wanted it for myself.
I wish to see the painting soon.
Let's hurry.
The flowers...
survived the cold of the moon,
and stand upright with more dignity than anything.
This is the painting that real butterflies landed on,
shocking everyone who was present.
The technique of this painting is smooth and almost shines.
The touches are delicate.
(Touches made with the brush)
It truly has great energy.
The more I look at it, I see a mysterious painting...
with a strange energy.
What painting is this?
This painting is a depiction of butterflies...
chasing the fragrance left in the hoof prints of a horse.
It's so real, I can almost hear and see the movements.
The Crown Prince is sickly...
and my mind is full of worries.
This offered me great comfort.
As the purpose of the Maejukheon Painting Contest,
this painted reached the top...
with only their skill and regardless of her class or status.
She may be a woman, but she has such great skill.
Wouldn't it be right to let her enter Gohwawon?
Keep her close and let her comfort you.
She is the painter you searched so hard for.
Is that so?
Is it...
not you who wants to keep her close?
Pardon?
I only made the suggestion because you have been...
looking for a painter with exceptional talent.
It was a joke.
Let's do that.
I give the command.
Accept Hong Cheon Gi into Gohwawon.
For three months, have her work during the day
and have her work on the portrait at night.
I thank you, Father.
The special painter to repair the king's portrait?
Goodbye, then.
You can go.
Your Highness.
Wait. Scholar Ha.
It won't take long.
Scholar Ha.
There's something I'd like to know about that painter
called Hong Cheon Gi.
You may ask.
Okay, so...
Are you and Painter Hong...
very close?
We first met in the dye house.
When she brought the list of attendees to Maejukheon,
I thought her relationship with you seemed unusual.
I meant to ask you about it.
Watch it. Why would you say that?
We're not that close yet.
"Yet"...
did you say?
I mean...
What am I saying?
No matter how well you wrap an incense stick,
its fragrance will travel long distances.
I am...
interested in her as a painter.
We should go.
The King had been searching for a special painter.
The female painter called Hong Cheon Gi who won...
the Maejukheon Painting Contest.
He commanded she be accepted into Gohwawon.
A special painter?
Was that why...
the contest was held?
There must be a reason the King...
was looking for a talented painter.
The painter's father mentioned the Demon.
He must know of it.
However...
I wonder why Father had her accepted into Gohwawon.
You should look into that.
Do you have an idea?
Sim Dae Yu.
He was Hong Cheon Gi's rival until the very end of the contest.
How...
shall we use him?
With black magic.
I take a thorn from a citron tree with his blood on it,
stab it into a straw figure and cast a spell on it.
If I must go, I must go
Once the black magic makes a connection with him,
I can control him whenever and wherever.
In other words, he becomes my pawn.
We then place that pawn next to the special painter.
So we can find out what it is...
the King does with that talent.
Wouldn't casting such a spell come with great risk?
Yes. One who casts such a dark spell...
also suffers grave consequences.
However, no harm will come to you.
Did you get the medicine?
I almost did.
I don't think I can now.
I heard that Yeowoon Port...
is where Yeon smugglers dock.
You might be able to find it there.
I have no money.
Too bad. He's running out of time.
How much is the medicine?
At least 300 bags of rice.
What? 300 bags of rice?
Give him the medicine I made three times a day.
That will keep him going for the time being.
Okay.
- Get back safely. - I will.
Cheon Gi. I think I was wrong about it.
About what?
I will take good care of your dad.
You should join Gohwawon.
What do you mean?
The King commanded that as the winner of the contest,
you are to join Gohwawon.
I can't do that when Dad's sick.
I'll plead for mercy and tell them I can't.
Do you think this is something you can go against?
My dad could die at any moment.
I can't stay out all day long.
Then don't go.
Gohwawon is just a place...
What did I tell you?
Entering the contest will only
draw attention to you and get you in trouble.
Still, if only Dad hadn't shown up that day,
I could've gotten my hand on that Chungsimwon.
Well, yes, that's true.
How about you join Gohwawon first,
and then figure out the next step?
Master, do you want me to go or not?
- Will you go? - No.
- Then don't go. - Master!
Did she say she would join Gohwawon?
I pleaded with her as best I could,
but she insisted on staying here.
Why are you still here anyway?
Even after Eun O got sick,
I was too busy fending for myself to look out for him.
And I didn't know he had a daughter.
I don't deserve to sit there and work.
If she joins Gohwawon, I will make it up to them then.
Geon, the problem is,
Cheon Gi is adamant.
She's more stubborn than 3,000 people combined.
Even if she must jump into a lake with her work,
she will not join Gohwawon.
We cannot hide her talent now the whole world knows about it.
We cannot stop her from becoming what she's meant to be.
Don't whine about it to me. I didn't say anything.
Because I got the impression you're reluctant.
Will you go against the King's command?
Would I dare go against the King's command?
But I must admit I am concerned.
What if...
she becomes like Eun O?
What happened to her father was an accident.
Cheon Gi will be different. I will protect her.
If she paints the same thing over and over at Gohwawon,
she will lose the dangerous talent you're so worried about.
Have you forgotten?
Eun O also painted the same thing over and over at Gohwawon.
Your Highness, Expert Han Geon is here.
So, did you see her?
How is Painter Hong doing?
Do you know when she will join Gohwawon?
It seems she will need more time.
More time?
She seems to think she cannot...
work at Gohwawon, leaving her mad father at home.
She's willing to disobey the King to care for her father.
What great filial loyalty.
The man who sprayed ink on my brother.
He is Hong Eun O who painted the portrait?
Yes.
Cheon Gi has been caring for him on her own for years.
A crazy father.
It must weigh heavily on her.
It must.
The Big Dipper shines extra bright tonight.
You are to observe the stars, not share your sentiment.
Is that so?
Welcome, Scholar Ha.
Since you went missing, our lord...
told me over and over again to stop you from joining the observation.
Please don't reprimand me.
Observing the stars is the only joy in my life.
Okay.
Did you enjoy the painting contest?
There's talk that a whole new level of painting was revealed.
It was a special contest in that...
painters were judged...
regardless of class or social status.
Regardless of class or social status?
Did any of the paintings stand out...
I apologize.
Did any of the paintings stand out?
Yes.
It smelled of peaches.
- There's the Big Dipper. - Really?
The night sky from that night.
Painter Hong.
What?
Oh, Your Highness.
Why are you so surprised?
Well...
What brings you here?
I happened to...
hear about your father Hong Eun O.
I apologize.
I was a huge nuisance.
I don't know how to make up for it.
It's fine.
In this world,
there are painters...
who add strange energy to their work.
Do you know...
who that is?
It's Painter Hong.
Pardon?
Is there another painter named Hong?
Who is that?
Me?
You said that I failed to find my own style of painting.
(One's way and style of painting)
I'm glad you recognize my skill now.
Do you really have no humility at all?
What is that?
Is it a food?
I don't know about that.
What I'm saying is,
will you not use your skill for me and for our nation?
At Gohwawon.
- The truth is... - I know.
You cannot join Gohwawon because of your sick father.
That's what you'll say.
I will look after him.
- Pardon? - I, a royal prince,
will take good care of your father.
You don't have to do that.
I'm not shameless enough to accept that from you.
It's not out of generosity.
Did you ever wonder...
why your father went mad?
Well...
Do you know the reason?
When I was young,
I stood in awe as I saw my grandfather's portrait.
It had been painted by a gifted painter,
and my father is still looking for that painter's descendant.
That gifted painter...
is your father.
Perhaps your father...
lost his sanity while painting my grandfather.
That's what I thought.
Why would you think so?
After I...
After I saw the portrait as a child,
I was unable to control myself for a while.
I felt as if I was not myself.
If I felt that way after just looking at it,
What would your father have felt when he created it?
What do you say?
Will you not join Gohwawon and find out the truth with me?
Me, Han Geon,
and the master of Baekyu Painters Society.
We will check on your father every now and then.
It's not like you'll never see him again.
After your work at Gohwawon is done,
you can come to visit like I did tonight.
So...
What about my wish?
The Chungsimwon.
I asked...
the Palace doctor to make one.
Is that true?
Is that truly true?
Yes.
Thank you, Your Highness. Thank you.
Thank you, Your Highness. I'm really grate...
Are you that grateful?
Yes.
I'm truly grateful.
Don't worry about anything else...
and think about it.
Give me an answer when you pick up the medicine at Maejukheon tomorrow.
Tomorrow afternoon?
Yes.
I will see you then.
Yes, Your Highness.
Have a safe trip back.
Me, Han Geon, and the master of Baekyu Painters Society.
We will check on your father every now and then.
My dad...
was a gifted painter.
Perhaps your father...
lost his sanity while painting my grandfather.
What do you say?
Will you not join Gohwawon and find out the truth with me?
Dad.
Cheon Gi, you haven't had lunch yet, have you?
Eat all you want and tell me if you want more.
Thank you.
Thanks for the food.
Master Choi.
What?
Have you still not held Ms. Gyeonju's hand yet?
(Kang Chun Bok, Baekyu Painters Society's secretary)
That's just cruel.
Hasn't it been going on for 20 years?
You'll never find someone like her.
I know.
Wait, what?
Before you regret it,
pluck up the courage to do what you want or must be done.
Cheon Gi...
What are you talking about?
Don't talk nonsense at the table and eat.
I enjoyed that.
I made up my mind.
About what?
I'll join Gohwawon.
You will?
Yes.
I'm finished, so please excuse me.
Where do you think you're going?
Prince Yangmyeong said he'll help me get my father's medicine.
I also want to tell him that I'm joining Gohwawon,
so I'm heading over to his place.
Are you saying Prince Yangmyeong granted your wish?
He did.
One second.
Here.
What is this?
This is...
You put my tiger drawing on this silk scroll.
(Tiger drawing: Drives out evil, Silk scroll: Used like a frame)
It was a shame to simply use it to drive out evil spirits,
so I kept it with me.
Prince Yangmyeong loved the drawings you made,
so take that with you.
If you do not know when to be grateful,
you're no better than a beast.
Master Choi!
Goodness, you're suffocating me. Let me go.
My goodness, I can't breathe.
- Thank you. - My goodness.
Don't forget.
You're a painter of Baekyu Painters Society,
and you're my pupil.
I'm saying...
you're a part of Baekyu Society until the day you die.
Do you understand?
Master Choi, how long will you keep saying these things?
It's not like I can't come out once I join Gohwawon.
Forget it. There's no talking to you.
Run along.
Go.
Goodness.
I won't forget.
When everyone laughed and said a blind kid can't paint,
you didn't.
How you were thrilled when I could see again.
How you never said anything even though I used...
more ink sticks and paper than anybody.
And that I'm a painter of your Baekyu Painters Society.
I will never...
I will never forget.
Okay.
My goodness, Cheon Gi.
I'll be back.
Okay.
Cheon Gi.
Have a pleasant time.
I hope nothing bad happens.
Cheon Gi will do well.
And...
Why? What? Why do you look at me...
I'll muster up my courage too.
What do you mean?
My goodness.
- Take it. - My gosh, it's all right.
Dad!
Oh my.
Hey.
Old lady.
Show me the painting.
Sorry?
No, not this one. This one belongs to someone.
(Old lady Samsin: The giver of life)
The owner has changed.
Sorry?
- That's why we should... - I told you already.
All done. It'll find its owner now.
Sorry? What do you mean by that?
You keep trying to steal my painting...
What?
Old lady.
Where did she go?
She was here just now.
Anyway, is that old lady a ghost or a human?
What?
What?
What?
Wait, I keep walking and walking, but why do I always end up here?
Did I get bewitched by a ghost in the middle of the day?
I always have the worst day whenever I run into that old lady.
Excuse me.
Is anybody here?
Excuse me.
May I ask you something?
Goodness.
What brings you here?
Oh, you're the scholar's servant.
What brings you here?
Because this is Scholar Ha's home.
Of course, I should be here.
What?
This is...
Scholar Ha, you're here.
Yes, Man Soo.
This smell...
Do we have a guest here?
Yes, my lord.
It's me, Scholar Ha.
Have you been well?
Yes, I've been well.
So what brings you to my place?
Oh, well. I somehow ended up here.
This is great.
I had something to tell you.
Do you?
Please come inside for a chat.
I wanted...
to express my gratitude and apology to you.
Thanks to your kindness, I took first place in the contest,
and you saved...
my father's life.
What you're saying is too much for buying just a painting.
And you paid 300 bags of rice to buy that painting.
The auction made me bid more.
That's no reason for you to apologize to me.
It's your great painting that became the first place.
When Prince Joohyang said...
he'll hold my father responsible for his actions,
I regretted everything.
I shouldn't have participated in the painting contest...
- or have taken the first... - We both did...
what had to be done.
I went to Maejukheon...
looking for a nice painting.
And one day, if I ever get to see again,
I want to see that painting.
I didn't do this just for you and your father's sake.
Don't let this concern you anymore.
Scholar Ha,
how do you live with everything piled up in your heart?
If that boy I knew grew up,
I thought he would look like you.
But I was mistaken.
That boy doesn't want me to recognize him.
I don't know what the story is,
but I'll keep it that way.
Keep what that way?
If that boy...
didn't want me to recognize him,
he probably died,
or he must have a reason to live as if he was dead.
I'm saying I decided to live as if I don't recognize him.
- Is that so? - However,
I'll remember this moment for a very long time.
I'll remember my gratitude, how pleasant it is to see you again,
and all these concerns.
If I do that, I'm sure...
this moment will linger with me as a good memory.
One day,
in your life,
if you ever...
face another tough day, making it tough for you to keep your promise,
on that day,
please don't forget...
there was someone who trusted and waited for you...
through all these years.
Please don't mind everything I just said to you.
Please excuse me.
I had to go somewhere, but I came to the wrong place.
I can't do this.
Are you about to stand in the rain until you soak it all up?
Your Highness.
Grab that side.
Let's go.
Are you in pain?
I'm all right.
You have a fever.
This isn't good.
- Get on my back. - Sorry?
I'm all right, Your Highness. How could I do that?
Stop it. This is the Prince's order.
Get on my back.
But...
I know you're a woman, but you're too thin.
Your Highness.
Why are you so kind to me?
Because it hurts.
Sorry?
My heart aches whenever I see you.
We need to find shelter from the rain.
Stay with me for a bit.
Is that you, Scholar Ha?
Scholar Ha.
My apologies, Your Highness.
I was to meet her first.
(Lovers of the Red Sky)
We have a month.
We must hurry up and restore the late King's portrait.
Father.
I will never let anybody take my position away.
You must confirm the Demon that resides in Scholar Ha's body.
Let me introduce our new painters.
You'll take a different job and work with me by night.
Prince Yangmyeong?
What brings you here?
We must spend every night together, so just get used to it.
Every single night?
Your Highness, do you wish to put Lady Hong in danger...
to satisfy your curiosity?
Are people's destinies already decided at birth?
In the world I live in, yes.
Then it's meaningless for people to do their best.
I apologize, Your Highness.
I cannot let Cheon Gi go like this.