Prince Imhae's plot to frame Yeongchang and the Western faction comes to fruition, as King Gwanghae must choose between being the ruler he promised to be, and solidifying his power.
When the people around King Gwanghae begin to eliminate potential threats to Gwanghae's throne on his behalf, the citizens of Hansung can only look on in dismay as their King turns into a tyrant.
When an accident occurs at the weaponry bureau, poisonous smoke threatens to halt all production. Hwa Yi must flee or risk being condemned as a Japanese spy.