Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Bong-hwan finds Cheoljong trapped by his fear inside the well and helps him out. The king calls for Hwa-jin, but the queen stays with him and offers comfort rather than correcting him. So-yong's returning memories reveal more of the household's part in his childhood suffering. Her father helped close the well while the boy was inside, making the queen's family connections harder for Bong-hwan to dismiss as someone else's problem.
Hwa-jin has the corruption ledger and tries to arrange a meeting with Cheoljong, but palace interference delays her message. Seeing the king spend more time with the queen deepens her fear that his affection has shifted. Cheoljong and his allies still need the missing evidence, while Byeong-in continues investigating the attack on So-yong. Everyone's private knowledge gives them a different picture of the same marriage and the families surrounding it.
Back in the royal kitchen, Bong-hwan cooks for the Grand Queen Dowager and begins sharing more with Man-bok. The chef's frustration draws him closer to Court Lady Choi, who also needs somewhere to complain about the queen. Cheoljong and Bong-hwan discuss choosing new concubines, with the king considering family connections while Bong-hwan enjoys the prospect of meeting the women. Their easy exchange is painful for Hwa-jin to witness. When she finally speaks with Cheoljong, she asks whether he has fallen in love with his queen.