The episode starts with the full moon and Kang Chi outside looking at his father. Kang Chi asks who he is – although I think he already knows, somewhere, I mean, the guy’s super-humanly fast and creepy – and Wol Ryung asks if he’s Choi Kang Chi. Kang Chi asks again and Wol Ryung says his name. Significant staring as the wind blows.
Century House. Seo Hwa asks Tae Seo why he’s there. I really don’t think I like how this actress pronounces things, at least right now. She has really annoying diction. Seo Hwa reveals that she’s Korean.
Outside the Training Camp. Wol Ryung asks if Kang Chi is Seo Hwa’s son. Kang Chi snarks, “So the monk tells me.” Heh. Wol Ryung wants to know if he’s seeking the Book of the Nine. Kang Chi snarks again: the monk’s been talking. Wol Ryung asks if it’s for Dam Yeo Wool. This gets a little reaction out of Kang Chi – is he going to be a threat to Yeo Wool?
Wol Ryung says that if Kang Chi wants to find the Book of the Nine for Yeo Wool, that he should stop. He should forego being human and live as a god. Then Wol Ryung will spare his life.
I love Kang Chi, because he’s his usual confident self in the face of a tyrant: “Oh, you will, will you? Who are you to say what I should be? How dare you?!” His voice is getting louder and I think a little of his abandonment angst is peeping through as he talks. Wol Ryung says that Kang Chi knows exactly who he is.
There’s a pause. I was expecting Wol Ryung to say, “I’m your father,” but I don’t know if he wants to look at himself as Kang Chi’s father. Finally Kang Chi says, less blustery, “I don’t want to.” Again, does he not want to acknowledge who Wol Ryung is, or give up being human? He adds, “And I’d just as soon not.” Wol Ryung’s been deadpan this whole time, but this gets a little reaction.
Kang Chi tells Wol Ryung to go away and never come back. Instantly, and I mean instantly, almost faster than light, Wol Ryung shoves him by the chest into the wall (incidentally the wall where he made the vines grow) and then grabs him by the throat. He’s much stronger than Kang Chi. His grip hurts but Kang Chi can’t break free no matter how he tries.
Wol Ryung strongly says, “Trust me. All humans can offer is betrayal. They will never accept you. They will never trust you. They will reject and hurt you because you are different.” It’s his last warning. He should leave them behind. Kang Chi responds, “And be a monster in the mountains, like you?” This gets an eye squint from Wol Ryung. “Deathless, friendless, relentless, loveless, alone?” Wol Ryung would wish that type of life on Kang Chi? There’s almost a remorseful look on Wol Ryung’s face and he squints again.
Kang Chi says that he’s sorry, but he won’t live like that. All he wants… And a tear rolls down his nose. Wol Ryung looks at him as if examining something alien. All he wants… is to be… a man. Again, Wol Ryung looks at him as if not understanding what he’s seeing. Then he looks down and slowly to the right. I guess he’s heard something.
And the moment I’ve dreaded is here. Gong Dal is there with his broomstick. He heard Gong Dal. Gong Dal says, “Well said, indeed.” Aw, I love how he cares about Kang Chi and believes in him. “I’m a good teacher.” Doh! Kang Chi is not happy that Gong Dal’s there, because he knows how strong and fast Wol Ryung is. He’s really freaking out because he doesn’t want anything to happen to Gong Dal. Me neither.
Gong Dal asks, “So, you’re the one hunting people in the hills?” I wonder how much of their conversation he’s overheard. Wol Ryung’s observing this new adversary. He’s a deceptively weak looking one, too. Gong Dal tells Wol Ryung to let Kang Chi go and leave him alone. It’s great because it’s like he’s chastising one of his students.
Kang Chi begs Gong Dal to leave them, to go away. Gong Dal ignores him and repeats his order that Wol Ryung unhand Kang Chi. Wol Ryung does and lunges toward Gong Dal. But Gong Dal’s ready. Ow. This is not going well. With in seconds, Wol Ryung’s controlling the broom and now he has Gong Dal by the throat! No!!! The red eyes have come out and Gong Dal is gagging! No!!!! Gong Dal is dying!
Kang Chi shouts ‘No!’ so loudly that everyone in the camp heard him, not only Yeo Wool, who knows Kang Chi needs help, but Pyung Joon and Gon. Pyung Joon looks grimly determined but Gon looks concerned. Not how he used to look when he thought that Kang Chi was dangerous, but more like he’s worried something’s wrong with Kang Chi.
Yeo Wool steps out of her room and her teacher is there. I wish they would give the woman a name. The teacher asks Yeo Wool where she’s going? Yeo Wool mentions the shout and Teacher responds that it’s Master Dam’s concern and she should go back inside. Yeo Wool protests that it was Kang Chi – aw, she knows his voice – but Teacher is firm.
The bracelet is on the ground and the green eyes are already out. Wol Ryung senses the transformation and turns to look at Kang Chi. I guess this is enough to get Wol Ryung to stop sucking the life out of Gong Dal. Wol Ryung repeats his demand that Kang Chi stop trying to be human, or he will destroy everyone close to Kang Chi. Kang Chi just yells and charges.
But there isn’t any type of battle because Wol Ryung just vanishes. Kang Chi quickly turns to Gong Dal, who is lying on the ground unconscious. Is he dead? His neck looks really painful, but he’s not grey. He doesn’t respond to anything Kang Chi says. Ah! He’s not breathing!
Suddenly Kang Chi looks around and finds a sharp rock on the ground. He quickly cuts his hand open and puts it on Gong Dal’s neck wound. Then, there’s a sword.
Man! It’s Pyung Joon. He demands Kang Chi stand aside. All the students are there as well. A little overkill, Pyung Joon? Tears are running Kang Chi’s face and you’re holding a sword to his throat. Kang Chi can’t believe it and says, pleadingly, to Pyung Joon, “Master.” Pyung Joon more forcefully commands Kang Chi to step aside. Interestingly, Gon is the only one whose sword is *not* on Kang Chi, but he sure looks mad.
Kang Chi looks down and moves his hand. The blue lights have appeared on Gong Dal’s wound. It’s gone. Did no one else see the blue lights? Sadly, he backs away.
Immediately, some of the students rush to Gong Dal’s side and try to wake him. My buddy Song noticed something –Kang Chi’s bracelet. Song knows that Kang Chi needs it to be human, so what does that mean, since he looks pretty human now? Kang Chi looks like his heart’s been broken twice tonight, by Gong Dal almost dying and by Pyung Joon not believing in him.
Wol Ryung is back at the Garden of the Moon. He looks as if he’s pondering what’s just happened. He sits and pulls up him sleeve. So Kang Chi did get him a bit. There are claw marks there.
Century House. Seo Hwa is making what looks like that tea again. Is it red ginseng? Heh. I shouldn’t joke since Gong Dal’s near death at the moment. But at least he’s not dead! And he’s going to get better, thanks to Kang Chi’s magic blood.
The gauzy curtain is gone. Seo Hwa offers the mixture to Tae Seo to drink. He wants to know what all this is. She responds that they’re both wondering about the other, so they should ask their questions. But what about the funky tea? It’s pesto green.
Tae Seo says he’ll go first and Seo Hwa’s like, really? Is she from Joseon? She smiles. Yes, she’s his countrywoman. Still, even though your entourage is from Japan? You’re still loyal? Tae Seo isn’t sure how to take that. Or Pil Mok.
Seo Hwa’s turn. Is Tae Seo working with Kwan Woong? Tae Seo says he’s only doing it because of his sister, who was sold as a gisaeng. Seo Hwa thinks a moment. Her face tells me she understands exactly Tae Seo’s sister’s situation. And she should, since it was her story 20 years ago.
Tae Seo’s turn. How is she involved with Kwan Woong? She brightly smiles and says that they exchange funds and information, but doesn’t add that she wants him dead for what he did to *her* family all those years ago, including helping her destroy the man she loved and losing her son. Tae Seo wants to know for what purpose is she involved with Kwan Woong? To what end?
Seo Hwa interrupts that it’s her turn. She’s still smiling pleasantly, but it looks a bit more forced. She has one last question. Does Tae Seo want Century House? I really hate how she says “shimmy ka.” Or ends any of her sentences! Tae Seo is surprised at her question. She says that she can help him get it back and then looks at him almost malevolently. Pil Mok also looks at Tae Seo expectantly. Tae Seo isn’t sure how to take that statement either. Her reassuring smile isn’t so reassuring. She’s definitely learned how to play it close in the last 20 years.
Training Camp. Yeo Wool is sitting, uneasily waiting for news in her room. Gon’s there. She eagerly invites him into her room. She wants to know what happened. Gon’s face is tender as he breaks the bad news: Kang Chi attacked Gong Dal. Yeo Wool is naturally surprised. Why would he do that? Gon almost looks sad as he tells her that he thinks its becoming harder for Kang Chi to control the demon within. Isn’t it ironic that it’s becoming easier? And that each time they’ve seen him gh’d, he’s been more and more human?
Yeo Wool wants to know how Gong Dal is. He’s lying quietly but still unconscious. Did no one notice the blood on his neck but no neck wound? No wounds anywhere? And if it were harder to control the beast, wouldn’t he have wounded him *somewhere*? Kang Chi’s under guard. Yeo Wool wants to go, presumably to ask Kang Chi what happened, or to try and reason with her father, but Gon blocks her path.
Yeo Wool wants to see for herself. That-a girl! She, more than anyone, knows what the gumiho-Kang Chi can do or doesn’t do. But, of course, even though that’s true, and she’s been able to help Kang Chi transform back *without his bracelet,* it’s not a good idea to let her take a look, after all, she’s blinded to the monster by love. Gag me, Pyung Joon!
Gon refuses to let her. Yeo Wool shouts that Kang Chi wouldn't do such a thing! Which is true. He didn’t. Gon’s firmer and a little angry now: Gong Dal has been wounded and Kang Chi was in his demon form. What else do they need? Yes, it *does* look bad.
Kang Chi’s in the great hall, kneeling, wearing his bracelet. Nine students surround him, all holding spears. If he wanted to get away, he could easily do it. Song is there. So is the jerk, who grouses that he knew it. And now Gong Dal’s on death’s door. Song asks if the jerk thinks Kang Chi did it. The jerk is indignant, pissed that he would even doubt it was Kang Chi. After all, didn’t Song see his eyes? No human could hurt Gong Dal like that. Song doesn’t want to believe it.
Gong Dal’s room. He’s got the magic washcloth on his forehead. Pyung Joon is sitting cross-legged next to him. Behind him are many students, including the jerk and Jin Song. The jerk is arguing that the students are concerned. First Kim was killed a few days ago and now Gong Dal. How many more sacrifices are they going to make? Soon Shin has arrived. Ah. Pyung Joon has sent for him. At least Pyung Joon did that much, instead of going off half-cocked like he has been. Soon Shin heard about what’s happened. They both look at Gong Dal.
Kang Chi decides he’s tired of just sitting there. He gets up to leave, but the students all draw their spears on him. Song and another student are directly blocking his path. He just glares and walks by. The students rush out behind him and surround him again. The student, who I guess is in charge at the moment, wants to know where Kang Chi is going. He’s going to see Gong Dal. Since he knows that his blood can fix all this. The leader refuses, since they have orders to keep him there. Song looks worried that he’s going to have to hurt his friend. I like that he’s very close with Gong Dal and yet he’s not jumping on the Kang Chi is evil band wagon.
Kang Chi grabs the leader’s spears. Everyone jumps and then collects themselves. Song is really worried now. Kang Chi remembers Yeo Wool’s words: Don’t fight them. They need time to get used to him. Wise words. Soon Shin orders them all to back down. He’s entered the courtyard along with Pyung Joon and the other students. Kang Chi turns to face him, shoving the spear down in the process. Unlike Pyung Joon, Soon Shin’s face is almost friendly. Significant staring, with a little emotional chin shake from Kang Chi.
Yeo Wool is in her room, nervously teething one of her thumbnails. Teacher is there. She tells her to sit up straight; her posture’s a bad habit. Yeo Wool reluctantly agrees and looks over at the flower Kang Chi gave her the night before. She sighs.
Pyung Joon’s study. Only Kang Chi and Soon Shin are there. Yay. That father-son relationship will get to the bottom of things. Soon Shin wants to know what Kang Chi did to Gong Dal. Not looking at him, Kang Chi says it wasn’t him. Soon Shin says that the evidence says otherwise. Kang Chi looks at him now and repeats that it wasn’t him. Interrupting him, Soon Shin sharply demands to know who it was, if it wasn’t him. Whoa. That was sharp!
Kang Chi remembers Wol Ryung’s words: They’ll never trust him. With a hurt look, he asks, “You don’t trust me, either?” Wol Ryung again: They’ll reject and hurt him because he’s different. Oh, please, Soon Shin, don’t prove Wol Ryung right! Kang Chi asks, “I’m not a man. I’m different, so you suspect me?” Well, your hand was on Gong Dal’s throat when they found you. Soon Shin repeats his question: Who was it that did it? “So guilty until proven innocent, is that it?”
Okay, while I understand what Kang Chi’s saying, he should just say it was Wol Ryung already. He did this about the patrolling, too. I guess it’s a product of being the outsider his whole life; he’s not used to anyone else being there to defend him.
Soon Shin shoots back that he wants trust? Trust doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built day-by-day, person-by-person. If the people around him don’t trust him, then *he* hasn’t earned it. Kang Chi can’t fault them.
Kang Chi’s a little flabbergasted. It’s all on him? Soon Shin tells him that everything in our lives is on us. I like how he includes himself in that statement, how it applies to him, too. Kang Chi is frustrated. No matter how hard he tries, they don’t notice it. Soon Shin practically yells, “If your behavior depends on others noticing you, then he’s a hypocrite!”
Kang Chi seriously looks like he’s going to cry. No one understands him! He’s not performing for people. He’s just trying to do his best and even when he shows himself to be trustworthy, they don’t notice. I’ve felt that way before. It sucks. He starts, “Gong Dal wasn’t… It wasn’t me.” His voice is breaking now. Soon Shin says, “The weight of trust bears the weight of relationships.”
Kang Chi’s really trying hard not to cry. He looks down as Soon Shin tells him that in order to be trusted, he has to learn how to get along with people. Kang Chi remembers Gong Dal telling him the exact same thing. Aw, his eyes are full of tears.
Kang Chi leaves the office. He’s wearing the bell belt. So I guess Soon Shin isn’t convinced it was him. Pyung Joon and Gon are waiting outside. Both of their expressions aren’t so hard now. I guess they trust Soon Shin’s judgment. All the students are there, too. Oh, great.
Kang Chi walks up to Pyung Joon and humbly asks for another chance. The students look at each other over this crazy request. Pyung Joon says that the students are afraid of him and don’t want him there. As Pyung Joon says the part about them not wanting him there, Gon looks down like he feels bad for Kang Chi. Kang Chi says that he has 2 days and 5 bells to go. If he fails to guard his bells, he’ll leave without a word. Gon’s eyebrows scrunch slightly, as if wondering where Kang Chi’s going with this.
Kang Chi says that he knows it’s his last chance. Soon Shin comes out. Pyung Joon looks at him for the decision. Soon Shin looks down, leaving it up to Pyung Joon. Has psycho daddy finally calmed down? Is Pyung Joon going to be reasonable? Kang Chi’s just looking at him, teary-eyed.
Meanwhile, in Yeo Wool’s room, Teacher has dozed off while sewing. Hey, it looks like Yeo Wool’s gotten better, since she’s got a nice flower pattern going. And the flowers are similar to the one Kang Chi gave her. Smile. Yeo Wool notices, and after waiving a hand in Teacher’s face, she mischievously smiles and springs into action. She’s tied up and gagged Teacher. Rubbing her hands with her apology, Yeo Wool says that she’ll be back within an hour. Teacher should enjoy the nap she was taking. Teacher is not happy. Yeo Wool’s in her normal clothes now. She sneaks out her window.
Kang Chi is down where the fight took place. Gong Dal’s broom lies on the ground. No one thought to pick it up? That’s Gong Dal’s prized possession! He’s not going to be happy to find it gone when he wakes up. Kang Chi slowly picks it up and looks at it. Hearing someone behind him, he goes to use it.
But it’s Yeo Wool. He’s so happy to see her. She shushes him and pulls him to somewhere else.
Back in Yeo Wool’s room, Teacher has managed to wiggle her way over to the door and starts pounding on it with her feet. One of the student guards notice but ignores it. Until Teacher slides open the door with her feet.
Yeo Wool has dragged Kang Chi into the kitchen. Smart. No one’s going to be in there, since Gong Dal’s not cooking. Kang Chi still has the broom. Kang Chi wants to know if her house arrest is over. Would she be sneaking around if it was? He’s impressed that she snuck out. Yeo Wool adds that it won’t be for very long, because of her nanny. She wants to know how Kang Chi is. He’s obviously touched that she believes in him. Aw.
Yeo Wool tells him that Gon and Teacher aren’t saying anything and she’s consumed with worry. She wants to know how bad Gong Dal is. In a scolding tone, she asks him why he was there and tells him everyone thinks he did it. She wants to know how harsh Pyung Joon was. Kang Chi just asks about her ankle. She forgot it was hurt. Kang Chi tells her it will be easier to hurt it a second time, so she needs to take it easy. Aw, they’re both more concerned with the other’s welfare.
Yeo Wool nods but then tells Kang Chi that he’s turning into nag. And she uses a pet name with it. Her face is adorable. Kang Chi laughs. It seems like he’s told *her* this before. He tells her to knock it off. Playfully, she adds that he’s been more like a man lately. He laughs but then gets husky as he asks her if she likes it. What does he think? He says they should find out. Is a kiss coming?
Kang Chi keeps the banter going, adding that his sweetie sure does like it. She play scoffs and then there’s some significant staring. And swallowing. Kang Chi clears his throat and leans back, changing the subject to how Gong Dal will be fine. She asks about him. He says there’s still hope, since he has five bells left. She looks at the belt. Not Bell-o-rama! When she finds out that it’s only been a day and he’s already down to five bells, she’s alarmed. But he says that Master Dam said he can stay if he lasts 2 more days. He doesn’t get that he’s doing really badly.
Just then, another bell drops to the ground. Gon dourly tells him that it makes four. Both Yeo Wool and Kang Chi are indignant. Kang Chi decides that it’s Gon’s thing, to sneak up on him. Gon retorts about him sneaking out with a lady confined to quarters.
Sheepishly, Yeo Wool says that it was all her idea. Kang Chi crosses his arms and says, “Hear that? *She* worries about me.” Before he can continue, Gon interrupts and tells Yeo Wool that he’ll pretend he hasn’t seen her. She tells him she’s going, but in just a teeny bit. I love how she’s pinched her fingers together as she asks for just a little more time.
But, no! Teacher storms in and shouts no! Yeo Wool gasps in shock. The lady was quicker than she thought. And how did she find her? Does she have some invisible tracker or something? Teacher throws the rags that Yeo Wool tied her up with to the ground and demands that Yeo Wool come with her, immediately. Gon looks at Yeo Wool, at little shocked that Yeo Wool being sheepish to this scolding. Kang Chi is, too.
Back in Yeo Wool’s room, Yeo Wool is back in her hanbok. Teacher tells her that the next time, she’ll tell Pyung Joon everything. Aw, at least she didn’t rat Yeo Wool out. Yeo Wool apologizes and says that she was just worried about Gong Dal. She understands, right? Teacher adjusts her collar uncomfortably and announces that today they are sewing the top blouse. Yeo Wool is very amenable, I guess to try to get on Teacher’s good side again.
Soon Shin and Pyung Joon are drinking tea at the war table. Soon Shin has told him about Kwan Woong reporting Kang Chi. Soon Shin wants to know how far it’s gone. Pyung Joon reports that the villagers are saying some pretty ugly things. How far is the camp from the village? I thought it was far, since it took Moo Sol an overnight trip to meet with Pyung Joon, but they seem to be able to get news from the village pretty easily.
Pyung Joon is worried about the letter. Soon Shin laughs and tells Pyung Joon that his informants serve him well. He doesn’t seem that worried. Pyung Joon wants to know what Soon Shin’s plan is. Soon Shin just needs to say the word for Pyung Joon’s help. Yes, we all know you’re ready to throw Kang Chi under the bus.
Soon Shin wants to keep Tae Seo at Century House for now. They still need to know Kwan Woong’s plans and what the Japanese are up to. Despite Pyung Joon’s objection, Soon Shin says that he’ll handle Kang Chi. Soon Shin plans to bargain with Kwan Woong if he has to. Not what Pyung Joon wants to happen at all.
Century House. The magistrate has told Kwan Woong that Soon Shin wants to negotiate. Kwan Woong needs to decide on a location. Kwan Woong says Century House. The magistrate is shocked. Kwan Woong snarks that Soon Shin’s the supplicant; he should be the one to travel. The magistrate is nervous because of Soon Shin’s position as commander. Respect due him means that he doesn’t jump or come running for anyone (except the royals). Kwan Woong is fine with not doing it then. It’s no skin off his teeth.
Soon Shin tells the magistrate that meeting at Century House is acceptable. He doesn’t have a problem going to Kwan Woong. The magistrate is very relieved, since he thought Soon Shin would be upset. Soon Shin slams the stick he was holding on the table and steadily says, “No. Tell him to expect me at noon.”
Song is tending to the magic washcloth. Gong Dal actually shows some signs of life. He’s starting to wake up. Gong Dal motions for Song to come closer almost inaudibly says something. Song’s surprised, but not in a bad way. He nods. I wonder what Gong Dal said.
Kang Chi is in the kitchen, sitting on a stool, looking at the broom. He tosses it back and forth a few times. I guess he’s thinking about Gong Dal’s latest lesson. An ethereal Gong Dal tells him, “In grabbing just the broom, you fail. What matters is one’s true nature. See?” Obviously not a ghost since Gong Dal just woke up.
Kang Chi still doesn’t get it. A broom is a broom. What true nature could it have? I think this lesson’s going to have more meaning than beyond Kang Chi. I think it goes to Wol Ryung, too. Because the real Wol Ryung, not the demon Wol Ryung that keeps popping up, was a good and gentle gumiho, not a monster.
Song’s surprised to see Kang Chi. Song’s been looking for him. He’s got a smile on his face. That must have been something good that Gong Dal said, since Song no longer seems uneasy to be around Kang Chi. Song wants to know what Kang Chi’s doing. Kang Chi decides to go through the question with Song. Song grabs the broom easily and just chuckles. Kang Chi tries again. Song is not worried. Again it’s no problem. Both times, Song’s been looking at Kang Chi the entire time and not at the broom.
Kang Chi is amazed and wants to know how Song did it. Song asks him if he wants to know and Kang Chi says that Song has no idea how badly. Song says that what matters is one’s true nature. Arg! That’s exactly what Gong Dal said! Kang Chi just wants Song to show him how to do it. Song tells him to think about it. Don’t you think he *has* been thinking about it? When the broom moves, who controls the broom? I get it, but Kang Chi is a bit slow. Scolding, Song tells him that *he’s* the one controlling it. Aw, such a good friend. Kang Chi would never have figured that one out. Kang Chi is surprised that he’s the broom’s true nature. Song explains more: It’s because he’s moving it. So, Song didn’t watch the broom, he watched Kang Chi.
Kang Chi’s excited to finally know how it works. He wants to try again. This time he gives the broom to Song. Song easily keeps the broom away, putting a spin in there just for added neener-neener. Kang Chi asks for one more chance. He centers himself. This time, he’s able to grab the broom. He’s so proud of himself, he doesn’t pay attention and Song whacks him in the stomach, leg and stops in front of one of Kang Chi’s bells, telling him that it would be another bell gone, if the broom were a sword. Please don’t let Gon show up and lop off another bell. In awe, Kang Chi asks Song if *he’s* one of the Four Pillars. Heh. Song tells him not even close. Kang Chi is surprised that Gon is *that* good. Song tells him Gon is the best in the country after Master Dam. Kang Chi slumps down onto his chair; stopping Gon is pretty fruitless, if he’s that good.
Song tells him to keep his head up because Soon Shin has put himself at risk to protect him. Kang Chi’s not allowed to pout. I’m so glad that Song’s gotten over his fear! I like how they’re friends. Kang Chi wants to know what Song is talking about. Song’s surprised that Kang Chi didn’t know.
The students are in the courtyard practicing their staff-craft. Gon is overseeing them, calling out number combinations. Kang Chi finds him. He wants to know if what Song said was true: that there’s ugly talk in town, that Kwan Woong is using it to trap Soon Shin. I guess the students didn’t know about it because they start muttering among themselves. Gon thinks for a minute then tells him that it is true. Kang Chi wants to know why Gon didn’t tell him. Gon wants to know what Kang Chi would have done, if he knew. Kang Chi says he would have found a way to stop the talk.
Gon tells Kang Chi that he doesn’t have a single friend there at camp. That’s not true. There’s Song, Yeo Wool and Gong Dal. But that’s besides the point. How could Kang Chi hope to win the villagers over? Gon tells him to just behave himself and to hold onto his bells. Aw. At least he isn't randomly out to get him anymore.
Kang Chi asks Gon what he should do if he has a plan. The students are shocked that he’s still persisting. Gon looks at him skeptically. Kang Chi’s got a plan to stop the rumors and help Soon Shin. Will Gon help him? Gon blinks, surprised that Kang Chi would ask him for help.
The jerk chimes up that Kang Chi’s making more trouble. Man, I want to punch him. Another student adds that you can trust a stray dog more. They should *never* trust Kang Chi. I love it when people put that emphasis on ‘cher tay’ (never). That and when they sound like they’re clearing their throat to add disdain to their sentence.
Song comes around the corner to see all the students yelling their objections at Gon. Finally, Kang Chi rips off the belt and holds it out to Gon. If Soon Shin is hurt because of him, he’ll leave, whether he has bells left or not. Gon’s reading his face as he adds that none of them will ever see him again. Gon sighs and asks if that includes Yeo Wool. Kang Chi must be confident because he includes her in the deal. Gon’s a little surprised that he was so quick to include her.
Kang Chi says that it’s almost noon. Gon still plans on doing nothing? The students look to see what Gon’s going to do. Gon thinks. Song smiles, thinking that his friend is really cool. Gon’s face says that he’s going to do it, even though he *really* doesn’t want to. So what’s the plan?
Gon’s outside Yeo Wool’s room. Teacher comes out and asks him what he wants. Gon looks kind of uncomfortable as he asks her for a word. After checking on Yeo Wool, who’s hard at work poking herself, she follows Gon down the hall. Song pops out from around the corner. He and the guard nod hello to each other and Song goes into Yeo Wool’s room. Song sits down and tells Yeo Wool that Gon told him to talk to her. Yay! I love that Song is helping!
Pyung Joon’s Office. Apparently one of the students has ratted on Kang Chi. Pyung Joon’s mad, especially since Gon didn’t stop Kang Chi from going to the village. Oh, it’s Jin Song. Before he explains, Pyung Joon gets up to act. Look! It’s Gong Dal. He’s okay! Mostly. Gong Dal tells Pyung Joon to wait a minute before he does anything. Gong Dal wants to sit. Pyung Joon doesn’t want to wait. When Gong Dal says he knows the situation, Pyung Joon stops. Gong Dal tells him that he’ll fill him in. Is that on the plan? Or who attacked him? I hope he explains about the attack, especially since Jin Song is in the room.
The Courtyard. Teacher wants to know why they’re out there. Gon looks so uncomfortable. He really *is* bad at subterfuge. I guess that's why he's the pillar of *offense.* Gon asks how Yeo Wool is doing. She’s muddling through. Then Gon asks how Teacher is doing. Uh-oh. She kind of fidgets and I can tell already that she thinks that Gon might like her. You are way too old for him. Including his fist, Gon grunts and says I see. Behind them, Yeo Wool is now in her normal clothes and sneaking outside. She gives Gon the OK signal.
When Teacher starts to turn around, Gon reaches forward and stops her. He says that Teacher is helping Yeo Wool so much. He thanks her. His voice is weird. I would think that he liked me, with the way he’s acting, all awkward. Then he does this weird no teeth smile.
Teacher returns to Yeo Wool’s room. Someone dressed like Yeo Wool is lying with their face to the wall. As Teacher asks if Yeo Wool’s asleep, the camera pans down to reveal a nervous Song. Hysterical! He’s wearing a wig. He doesn’t answer. Teacher mutters about Yeo Wool taking a nap right then but goes to leave. Song lets out his breath. Oops! Teacher reaches down and turns Song over. He screams. She screams.
Yeo Wool’s outside of the camp now. At the bottom of the stairs, four students show up to stop her from leaving. The look on Yeo Wool’s face says that this isn’t going to be a problem.
The Village. Chung Jo and Gob Dan are out and about. A bunch of people rush by. Something’s going on. Maybe a fight. The villagers rush by Bong Chool and his lackeys.
Kang Chi is walking down the street. Someone says that he killed Lord Park. Bong Chool sees him and goes over to him. Kang Chi stops. Chung Jo and Gob Dan have arrived as well. Loudly, Kang Chi asks if they want to know if he’s the son of a demon. The villagers look at each other. Kang Chi asks again if they want to know, louder this time, and raises his hand.
Bong Chool yells, “Brother Kang Chi!” and pushes his way through some people. Loudly, he asks what Kang Chi is doing there, since he’s so busy. Then, in an aside to Kang Chi, he asks what Kang Chi’s planning, particularly because he *is* the son of a demon. Kang Chi ignores him and asks one last time, who wants to know. Bong Chool mutters at him but then yells at the crowd that his brother asked them a question. Well, between the two of them, it should get some response. At least Bong Chool’s true to his word in that he’ll be there for Kang Chi any time, any place, and do anything.
One of the villagers tentatively raises his hand. Then more. Pretty soon it’s the whole crowd, including Bong Chool’s men. Bong Chool grimaces and I can’t tell if he’s annoyed by the crowd or his own men. Kang Chi tells them to come to Century House and find out. Bong Chool looks at Kang Chi like he’s crazy. Kang Chi just smiles at him and clasps his shoulder in reassurance. Then he walks toward Century House. Bong Chool hurries after him, trying to get Kang Chi’s attention.
Kwan Woong’s Office. Ninja Soh escorts Soon Shin in. Kwan Woong’s being particularly arrogant today. He doesn’t even offer Soon Shin a seat. Soon Shin sits anyway, defiantly flicking his robe backward as he does. You, go, Soon Shin! Staring contest.
Ma Reum has told Tae Seo that Soon Shin is in with Kwan Woong. Tae Seo’s alarmed.
Finally Kwan Woong starts. What does Soon Shin want? Soon Shin has a problem with Kwan Woong reporting Kang Chi. Kwan Woong gives the spiel about the monster in the forest. Soon Shin wonders why Kang Chi is such a threat to Kwan Woong. Kwan Woong’s surprised at that idea. Soon Shin repeats it, adding exactly. Why else would Kwan Woong be so determined to get Kang Chi out of the way? Kwan Woong wants to know why Soon Shin is protecting a monster. Then Soon Shin gets philosophical: “You may recall the words of Master Mu Hak to King Tae Jo… The heart sees its own. A swine sees only swine. A Buddha sees only Buddha. You see a monster in Kang Chi, making you a monster as well.” He’s growling now. I love it!
Kwan Woong is offended, because he says, “Now look here!” People always say that when they’re offended. But Soon Shin doesn’t stop. There’s public unrest over the murders. Their manpower is overstretched. If there are any more problems with Kwan Woong’ rumor mongering, he will answer to military law. Hah! You’re not the only one who can throw around the treason card! Soon Shin tells Kwan Woong to Be Warned. Bam!
Kwan Woong is shocked that Soon Shin dares threaten him. It’s not like he’s not already in your sights for elimination. Why would he be scared of crossing you? Soon Shin says that if he wants to see it that way, then YES. Then Soon Shin bows and gets up to go. I love that he *bows* before he goes.
Kwan Woong thinks he’s slick. He asks Soon Shin why, if they’re not at war, is he asking for funding, provisions and some bizarre iron ships? Are they really for defense? Or is he planning a coup? A swine sees swine. As he talks, he gets more forceful, and the veins in his head are bulging now. Perhaps, he wonders, that’s why Soon Shin’s so interested in Kang Chi. Eh?!!!
Without blinking, Soon Shin says that the ironclads are classified, both internally and externally. How does Kwan Woong know about them? Did he plant a spy? Kwan Woong grimaces slightly as they have another staring contest.
Then Kang Chi’s voice is heard, telling everyone to come outside. Kang Chi and the villagers have arrived. The servants rush out. Eok Man and Ma Reum are worried, because of all the talk. Kang Chi tells his father that this is why he’s there. Kang Chi declares that he’s his boy, the son of the steward of Century House. The accusation that he’s a demon baby? That was just too much to take. Eok Man’s indignant for him and Kang Chi tells him to get Kwan Woong.
No need, because there’s Kwan Woong. And Soon Shin and Ninja Soh. Bong Chool is in the bushes, muttering under his breath because he knows what a treacherous scoundrel Kwan Woong is. Chung Jo is in the crowd, too. Soon Shin looks around at the crowd. Kwan Woong just looks at Kang Chi. The trio walk down the steps to stand before Kang Chi.
Kang Chi turns to Soon Shin and greets him and then bows. Soon Shin wants to know why he’s there. You can tell he’s a little concerned. Kang Chi says that he’s there to address the rumors about him, “from some yappy dog.” I love that he directs the yappy dog comment to Kwan Woong. Soon Shin tells him to go home. Kang Chi replies that keeping his patron out of danger and not letting him down, that this is his definition of trust. Aw. He’s taken Soon Shin’s talk to heart.
Kang Chi asks Kwan Woong what he needs to do to offer proof he’s not the son of a gumiho and that he’s just a steward’s son. Kwan Woong responds: his bracelet. I knew all this practicing would come in handy! Kang Chi clenches his fist. Kwan Woong asserts that the bracelet is the talisman which keeps the monster in check. Soon Shin is looking back and forth between the two men; particularly because from what he knows, this last statement is true. Chung Jo gasps, because she knows it’s true too.
Kang Chi asks Kwan Woong what it will mean if he doesn’t change after he takes it off. Will Kwan Woong apologize for his malicious gossip against an innocent man? Heh. Not only will he have to take responsibility for starting the rumors, but he has to apologize to a guy he despises! Kwan Woong tells him to just take it off. Kang Chi takes one last look at Soon Shin. He has to do this. He scans the crowd. Is he looking for Yeo Wool, his human anchor?
Kwan Woong goads him some more, telling Kang Chi to take it off and prove he’s a man. Kwan Woong is so sure he’s going to win. Kang Chi looks around at the crowd again and then at the bracelet. Bong Chool’s muttering, no! So is Chung Jo. She’s about to go and stop him when Yeo Wool pushes by her. Yeo Wool says Kang Chi’s name to get his attention. He’s so happy and relieved to see her. Chung Jo gets to watch as Yeo Wool stands by Kang Chi’s side, being the woman she *wasn't.*
Yeo Wool walks over to stand by Kang Chi. He’s just smiling at her. She nods at him to do it, that he can do it. Kwan Woong interrupts the moment, demanding that Kang Chi just take the bracelet off, already. With one last look at Yeo Wool, Kang Chi obliges. Lifting his wrist up for everyone to see, he takes off the bracelet, all the time staring defiantly at Kwan Woong.
The bracelet is in Kang Chi’s hand now. A strong gale wind blows. But nothing happens to Kang Chi. He’s just standing there. Yeo Wool is relieved. The villagers all mutter that Kang Chi didn’t turn into anything. Kwan Woong looks like he could lay an egg. Ninja Soh can’t believe it, either. Were they wrong about the bracelet? Soon Shin’s secretly going, ‘yes!’ Bong Chool peaks out from behind his fingers to see his brother still in human form. Kang Chi smirks in Kwan Woong’s direction. Yeo Wool’s smile gets bigger and bigger.
Kang Chi and Yeo Wool share a moment as we hear Kang Chi's voiceover: “I’m not sure why, but all I need is her by my side.” Yeo Wool softly says, “You did it. Good for you, Kang Chi.” Lots of smiling. Except from Chung Jo.
Kang Chi looks over at Soon Shin. Kwan Woong is pissed and asks Ninja Soh what’s going on. Ninja Soh is super pissed that he was wrong about the bracelet. He draws his sword and goes to attack Kang Chi. Kang Chi isn’t expecting it.
But Gon is! And he blocks Ninja Soh’s blade. They have a staring contest. A bunch of students appear and draw their swords. Pyung Joon steps up. He’s wearing his official’s hat, the one with the beads. He commands that Ninja Soh stand down. Kang Chi is one of his students and any man who offers him injury without cause will answer to him! He’s looking at Kwan Woong as he says it. Kwan Woong glares back. Soon Shin asks Kwan Woong if he still sees a monster? Kwan Woong offers one final glare and stomps back into Century House.
Bong Chool practically faints in relief. Eok Man and Ma Reum are really happy. The villagers are excitedly talking. Kang Chi slips the bracelet back on. Good thinking. He tells Yeo Wool thank you. She answers that no thanks are required. He laughs because his girl is awesome. Yes, we know, Kang Chi. We’re glad you do, too.
Soon Shin walks over to Kang Chi. He glances over at Pyung Joon, who gives him a bow. He nods in response. He tells Kang Chi that he admires Kang Chi’s spirit, but next time Kang Chi needs to give him a little warning. Kang Chi jokes about making Soon Shin sweat. Soon Shin laughs as he affectionately pats Kang Chi’s shoulder. Aw. Looking around once more, Soon Shin sighs, satisfied, and leaves. Everyone bows respectfully as he goes.
Once Soon Shin is gone, Pyung Joon looks sourly at Kang Chi. Kang Chi tentatively says his name. Pyung Joon chastises him for being far too rash in his plan. What if Yeo Wool didn’t make it in time? Kang Chi says that that would be impossible, because he knows Pyung Joon’s faith in Soon Shin. Pyung Joon can’t say anything to that.
Flashback. Gong Dal is talking to Pyung Joon. He tells Pyung Joon that Kang Chi didn’t attack him. It was another demon. Pyung Joon’s confused. Another demon? That demon asked if Kang Chi was Seo Hwa’s son. Pyung Joon wonders why Kang Chi didn’t mention the other demon. Gong Dal wonders if Kang Chi and the other demon are related.
Century House. Pyung Joon tells Kang Chi that they’ll discuss everything back at the school. And he’ll discuss Yeo Wool’s punishment *later.* Darn. Pyung Joon, Gon and the students leave.
Yeo Wool sighs and moans that she’s dead. Kang Chi just laughs at her. She laughs back. In the crowd, Bong Chool is crowing about his brother, Kang Chi. His men really like Kang Chi now. The crowd begins to disperse. Gob Dan looks pleased but Chung Jo almost looks like she just sucked a lemon. Tae Seo’s on a balcony. He sighs and his nostrils flare. The girl he loves, loves his brother and he really deserves her. They need to be together. Will these siblings never get a break?
Training Camp Courtyard. Gon holds up Kang Chi’s bell belt. All the students have assembled. Everyone knows what happened in the village, or they should know. Gon asks anyone to raise their hand, if they still want Kang Chi gone. He’ll remove a bell for each hand. The jerk immediately shoots up his hand. Jerk! One bell. His buddy shoots up his hand. Two bells. Anyone else? The students just look at each other. Gon repeats the question, a little more sternly this time. Song pipes up for them to stop it! How long are they going to do this to Kang Chi? Kang Chi didn’t attack Gong Dal. He saved him. Song tells them, sure, it’s true that Kang Chi is different, but that’s not a reason to hate him. How many of them are the sons of concubines or commoners? Their background is why a lot of them are there. He’s ashamed at how they treat Kang Chi; it is any better than the way the world them? He’s mad. I love Song. And I love that he just proved Wol Ryung wrong, particularly when he said that Kang Chi’s being different is *not* a justified reason to hate him.
Everyone is nodding their heads, acknowledging that Song is right and they’ve been jerks, except for but the Jerk and his buddy. Some people are just born that way. Gon sighs and asks if there’s anyone else. No one else raises their hand. Kang Chi turns and asks for his belt back. Gon rips off one of the bells. He says that this bell’s for him. He still wants Kang Chi gone. Kang Chi’s shocked. I don’t know how I feel about it. I kinda think that Gon *had* to do that, because otherwise he’d have to admit he likes Kang Chi. But I also think he doesn’t like that Kang Chi’s a loose cannon. Gon tells him he needs to take care of that one bell until sundown to stick around. Go hide in your room, Kang Chi. Or tuck the bell in your belt. Something. Gon walks off.
The students are about to disperse when Kang Chi tells them to wait. He thanks them for letting him stay, since he has nowhere else to go. He thanks them again and bows respectfully. I’m struck with how much Kang Chi’s grown since he’s been at the camp, because I don’t think the Kang Chi who first arrived would have done that, let alone even thought to do it.
Jin Song walks up to him and puts his hand on Kang Chi’s shoulder. He apologizes. Another guy walks by and pats Kang Chi’s shoulder. More pats. I’m choked up. Finally, it’s just Song and Kang Chi. Song smiles at Kang Chi. Kang Chi thanks him. Song says, “One more bean for the sack, right?” Then he smiles when Kang Chi finally gets the sack of beans puzzle.
Gong Dal is in the kitchen, drinking what I presume to be red ginseng tea. He’s got his broom. Kang Chi approaches and sets down the sack on the table. Kang Chi reports that he finally got it. It’s one sack of beans. Thousands of beans, tens of thousands, one sack is still one sack of beans. That’s the answer, right? Gong Dal laughs and says, maybe you did and maybe you didn’t. Kang Chi’s surprised that it’s not the answer. Gong Dal tells him to go do the mountain of dishes and then hobbles off complaining about his back. While Kang Chi scratches his head, Gong Dal heads over to Song and says, “I said to help him. Did you give him the answer?” Song denies, says he would never do that; Kang Chi’s just a fast learner.
Gisaeng House. Soo Ryun’s Office. The woman she’s meeting with says that it’s been a while. Soo Ryun asks about Seo Hwa. The woman doesn’t know much; they’re very secretive. No one goes into her room. But… she noticed something odd during her bath. Her right shoulder bears a gisaeng tattoo. Not just that, but her left shoulder has scar that looks like it’s from animal claws. Soo Ryun remembers the tattoo and Pyung Joon telling her to treat Seo Hwa’s wound by a demon. Soo Ryun can’t believe that Seo Hwa’s alive.
Seo Hwa’s meeting with Tae Seo. Had he thought over her proposal? Tae Seo wants to know her conditions, since she’s not doing it out of the kindness of her heart. What is she getting out of it? Seo Hwa wants Tae Seo to be her son. What? Pil Mok’s face is expressionless. What?
Well, Teacher has nodded off again. And Yeo Wool’s tied her up again. I guess she wasn’t that sorry about last time. Heh. Again with the hand rubbing apology. Yeo Wool says one last time and tells her to enjoy her rest; she’ll be right back.
Yeo Wool rushes to outside the camp. Kang Chi’s there. I can’t tell if he’s waiting for her, or just looking up at the stars. She smiles. Finally Kang Chi turns around. She tells him that she made it. So I guess it’s a rendezvous. You can’t stop love, Pyung Joon. He smiles and tells her that it’s sooner than he expected. She asks why she’s there. He smiles and holds out a bell. She knows what it means. He declares, “One bell left.” So I guess Gon really wanted you to stay, with the way he was arbitrarily cutting them off before. Yeo Wool is happy that Kang Chi kept it. He adds that it was with the others’ help. So he’s not leaving. Trademark Kang Chi yes grunt. She says that she’s glad as they smile at each other. A group of students start coming around the corner. Kang Chi and Yeo Wool dive to hide, crouching behind a bush. Significant staring, blinking and gulping. He’s looking at her lips again. Are they finally going to kiss?! It sure looks like it. Yeo Wool’s hands are clenched, she’s so nervous. Kang Chi doesn’t look much better. Now one of his hands is squeezing her shoulder and the other is wrapped around one of her hands. This is taking forever!!! Finally, both their eyes are closed. Just another inch, Kang Chi.
No! It’s Song, yelling for him. They have a silent debate as to whether Kang Chi should stay or go; he wants to stay; she’s saying to go. She shoves him from behind the bush. Too late. Song saw you. Pyung Joon is looking for him. Kang Chi tells him he’ll be right there and waves for Song to go in. Kang Chi sighs in relief that they weren’t caught but then he starts to worry about what Pyung Joon wants. Yeo Wool laughs at him a little. She doesn’t want to, but she tells Kang Chi to get going. Reluctantly, he agrees.
Kang Chi starts to walk away but then stops and turns around. I’m reminded of that moment when Wol Ryung walked away from Seo Hwa and then came back and planted one on her. Is Kang Chi going to do a repeat? He grabs Yeo Wool’s shoulders. Yes? Yes? He’s looking at her again, her and her lips. He’s moving in and then…
“Good night.” No!!!!
Yeo Wool stutters, “you, too.” And Kang Chi does a yes grunt. I really wish that yes grunts were normal in the English language. That and the nasally oh which is the same as yes or asking a question. Then he rips himself away and goes up into the camp. She’s smiling when suddenly a hand clamps around her mouth. The arm attached to really looks like it’s Wol Ryung. No!
Kang Chi arrives at Pyung Joon’s office. He’s sitting at the table. He invites Kang Chi to sit. Kang Chi tries to look calm and normal but he looks worried. Pyung Joon says that Gong Dal told him that a demon, not Kang Chi, attacked him. Pyung Joon wants to know if Kang Chi has any idea who he was. Kang Chi answers in the affirmative, but he’s hesitant to say. He remembers Wol Ryung telling him to stop being human. Pyung Joon wants him to answer. But Teacher bursts in to interrupt them. Yeo Wool is missing. They’re searched the entire camp. Kang Chi’s alarmed and spouts out that she should be back by now. Oops. Suddenly it hits him what it might mean and he runs out.
Outside the camp, Kang Chi is yelling for Yeo Wool. He steps on his bell. He remembers Wol Ryung’s warning.
Wol Ryung stands in the Garden of the Moon, as if mentally saying that he will destroy everyone close to Kang Chi. Angry fist clench from Kang Chi. And practically a gumiho face as Kang Chi growls out “Wol Ryung.”
Thoughts
Eek! Wol Ryung has Yeo Wool! And they haven’t even kissed yet! I’m scared of what’s going to go down between Kang Chi and Wol Ryung as a result of this. I’m wondering why Kang Chi hasn’t asked So Jung about all of a gumiho’s powers. Not that So Jung wouldn’t probably be cryptic and give him information that makes no sense until much, much later. But he was best friends with one, so he should know something. Or else have a book in his library that lists them.
A lot happened in this episode. Kang Chi and Wol Ryung had their first face-off. It’s obvious that Kang Chi is no match for Wol Ryung, what with his super-speed and strength. There isn’t time for Kang Chi to really bulk up on those skills, either. I think he could learn them at a much faster rate than Wol Ryung, since it’s been maybe two months and he can already not transform in public. So Jung told him it would be years before he could learn to control what form he’s in.
Finally, the students are on Kang Chi’s side and stop thinking he’s the thing in the forest killing people. Except for the jerk and his buddy. Who I hope get soul-sucked by Wol Ryung or told they can leave by Gong Dal, if they don’t like having Kang Chi around. And is Gong Dal going to make them all bow and apologize now? Probably not, since they don’t have any proof that the beast that attacked Gong Dal was the thing that has been killing people. Yay for awesome Song, for sticking up for Kang Chi. I really look forward to the growth of their relationship. I can totally see Kang Chi leading in the future and Song being one of his most loyal soldiers and supporters.
I’m wondering where Pyung Joon is at now. He seems a bit more humbled and less psycho-dad, especially when he saw how Kang Chi deals with things. I think he understands him a bit more and probably has dealt with men like him, who’ve always been the outsider and have never had anyone else to depend on. I wonder if Soon Shin talked to him, too, about what they talked about, the whole trusting people thing. It’s great that Kang Chi shows that he takes stuff to heart and actively works on things. As I mentioned before, I love the growth of his character. Even though he can still be a little cocky, he’s a lot less prideful. Plus, Kang Chi’s being shown real acceptance for who he is. All of who he is. And who he is, is being included in the inner circle of things. Back at Century House, he was loved and accepted except he was never really part of that inner circle the way he wanted to be. The scene comes to mind where he’s watching the family eat together and wishing he was there, teasing Tae Seo about finding a girl. But now, he’s friends with at least three of the school’s instructors: Gong Dal, Yeo Wool and Gon. Even though Gon’s not going to admit that they’re friends. He’s also got Soon Shin as his foster dad and that’s as inner circle as you can get.
Again, this is illustrating how Kang Chi is not destined to Wol Ryung’s fate. Yeo Wool isn’t going to die in the next episode. (She has to end up with Kang Chi, with them happy, otherwise this whole series will be stupid!!!) But it’s a scary thought of what might happen if Kang Chi did lose her. I think he would lose his tether to humanity, whether he wanted to or not. I hope that Pyung Joon is going to stop being a butthead some time soon, and start thinking that the two of them together would be a good thing.
I do wonder when the Park siblings are going to get a break in the love department. Their first loves are in love with each other. Chung Jo is a gisaeng; how is she going to end up with a husband? I am getting tired of seeing her glower at the growing love between Kang Chi and Yeo Wool. You failed on all counts, Chung Jo; you didn’t believe in him and you called him a monster on multiple times to get rid of him. She doesn’t trust in Kang Chi the way she should. This even goes back to when he first came to get her; she pulled away her hand. I understand he’s your first love, but he has someone else now. You were so ready to kick him to the curb back before all this happened, anyway. Why is now different?
And Tae Seo, even though he’s engaged to the girl he loves, he knows that she’s supposed to be with his brother. He needs to find a really cool girl, too! One that helps him to be a little less stiff and a little more goofy. Regardless of everything that’s gone down, he was pretty uptight and proper all the time before. He needs to relax a little. And not worry so much. He needs a girl who can help him to do that.
What is Seo Hwa’s plan? I guess no one mentioned the Kwan Woong-Kang Chi stand-off, which seems odd that not one of her people, like Pil Mok, watched it. Otherwise, why would she ask Tae Seo to be her son, rather than seeking out the one that was accused of being part gumiho? I’m not really fond of the actress playing middle-aged Seo Hwa. Her diction just grates on my nerves. I hope she stops soon with the hard stress on the last syllable she’s speaking. Korean is such a beautiful, flowing language. The way she pronounces things destroys that. And it’s not because her character spent years in Japan. Japanese diction doesn’t sound like that either! I hope they get to revealing her spider web soon, because it’s been four episodes now and still nothing. It’s getting kinda old.
I liked how so much of this episode focused on the idea of what it means to be part of a family. Even though Kang Chi had Ma Reum, he never was really part of a family. Sure, the other servants loved him; Moo Sol, Chung Jo and Tae Seo loved him; but in the end it was just Kang Chi, the adopted orphan who was pulled from the river. The flashback where Kang Chi had gotten in a fight with his friends because they were teasing him; it wasn’t Ma Reum that corrected them or cheered up Kang Chi, it was Moo Sol. So even though Ma Reum helped raise him, I don’t think he quite fathered him. It was more like he was taking care of Moo Sol’s son.
Soon Shin’s rebuke was awesome and exactly what Kang Chi needed to hear. Gong Dal told him the same thing, just in a different way. It’s interesting to think about how we’re responsible for everything that happens to us. How life doesn’t just happen to us and how our relationships with people are a direct reflection of how well we’ve learned to get along with them. Also, that whether you’re trusted by the people around you depends on whether you’ve earned their trust. It’s so true, but a really hard pill to swallow. I’m glad that Kang Chi really saw that point and is working on it.
No comments:
Post a Comment