After a Qing-mandated exile, Grand Prince Jinhan returns to a hostile palace; he later encounters an intriguing baduk player who proves to be elusive.

After facing Yi In in a game of baduk, Kang Hee-soo develops feelings for him; Yi Seon grows increasingly ill, creating a succession crisis.

Kim Myung-ha urges Hee-soo to stop her ruse; when a royal crisis arises, Kang Hang-soon performs a selfless act, but Kim Jong-bae schemes against Yi In.

After a confrontation with Yi Seon, Yi In ascends to the throne but not without opposition; in the process, he cruelly turns a blind eye to Hee-soo.

Yi In summons Myung-ha to the palace and appoints him to a special role; to get the attention of the king, Hee-soo takes part in the baduk examination.

Hee-soo receives a stern warning from Yi In upon becoming his official baduk companion, later becoming entangled in a political ploy by the queen dowager.