While his family was being attacked and taking refuge at Sinwonsa temple, the unsuspecting Kim Jong-Seo was getting ready to visit King Munjong. It was the day after his meeting with Chief State Councilor Hwangbo In, and the general suspected it would be a challenging conversation. He dressed himself in full official robes, put on his high-ranking minister headgear and left for the Palace.
The King expected him in a place reserved only for private meetings with his most trusted advisors. It was a mixture of a private chamber and official space, and was King Munjong's favorite room.
As soon as Kim Jong-Seo was announced by the Chief Eunuch, the King invited him to enter, eagerly gesturing for the general to advance. His Majesty was sitting on what seemed like an entire ensemble, which was made out of a mattress with a backrest and two armrests. The sunrays that entered through the open window made the yellow silk of the cushions sparkle like gold.
