“The First Night With The Duke“ continues to deliver intense drama in episodes 9-10, with Cha Sun Chaek (Seohyun) and Yi Beon (Taecyeon) facing new challenges. From kidnappings to royal betrayals, these episodes test their love and trust. Here are the five most frustrating moments that left fans on edge.
Sun Chaekโs Kidnapping and Near-Death Escape
Sun Chaek finds herself trapped in a forest cabin by a mercenary hired to kill her. Using her quick thinking, she stabs his leg and escapes, banging a ceremonial drum to alert Yi Beon. However, her kidnapper catches up, nearly strangling her before Yi Beon arrives just in time.
Fans were frustrated that Yi Beon was outsmarted by the kidnapper multiple times. Sun Chaekโs plea to spare the attackerโs life also causes tension, as it leads to bigger problems later.
“Sheโs smart enough to escape, but why does she keep ending up in danger? At this point, weโve lost count of how many times sheโs been targeted!” โ Soompi

The King Forces Yi Beon to Execute His Enemies
After using royal guards to rescue Sun Chaek, Yi Beon faces the kingโs wrath. The paranoid ruler, manipulated by Prince Yi Gyu, orders Yi Beon to execute former ministers to prove his loyalty.
Yi Beon hates killing but has no choice, leaving fans angry at the kingโs cruelty. This moment shows how trapped Yi Beon is under the kingโs control.
“The king is not just cruelโheโs stupid. How does killing innocent people prove loyalty?” โ Dramabeans
Prince Yi Gyu Teams Up With Jo Eun Ae
The villainous duo of Prince Yi Gyu and Jo Eun Ae takes center stage. Eun Ae, revealed as the mastermind behind Sun Chaekโs kidnapping, kills the mercenary to cover her tracks. Yi Gyu then blackmails her into an alliance.
Fans were shocked by Eun Aeโs cold-hearted actions, especially when she stabs the kidnapper after pretending to help him.
“Eun Ae laughing after being exposed? Thatโs pure evil. I never liked her, but this is next-level villainy.” โ Sportskeeda
Sun Chaek Misunderstands Yi Beon
Prince Yi Gyu manipulates Sun Chaek into believing Yi Beon killed her kidnapper. She sees blood on Yi Beonโs sleeve and confronts him, leading to a heartbreaking argument.
Fans were frustrated that Sun Chaek, who knows Yi Beonโs true nature, falls for Yi Gyuโs lies so easily. The lack of communication between the couple creates unnecessary tension.
“She literally asked him not to kill anyone, and now she thinks he did it? Come on, Sun Chaek!” โ But Why Tho
Yi Gyuโs Rebellion Plan Moves Forward
With Yi Beon sent to the border on a deadly mission, Yi Gyuโs rebellion gains momentum. The kingโs blind trust in Yi Gyu backfires, leaving the kingdom in chaos.
Fans worry about Yi Beonโs survival and whether Sun Chaek can stop Yi Gyuโs schemes before itโs too late.
“The king is digging his own grave by trusting Yi Gyu. This wonโt end well.” โ The Review Geek
Also Read: The First Night With The Duke Episodes 1-6 Review: A Chaotic Yet Entertaining Fantasy Romance