WindBlows

This is the first time the script writers somewhat disappointed me. SS actions are not consistent with what we know of her from part 1. There she was impulsive sometimes, but also knew what risks to take and how to do it to gain the best results. Maybe they wanted to show how much LBY loves her and sacrifices for her. Still, I think there were better ways to do it.

Yes, I think they could present everything without rushing. There should be enough episodes left. But it also depends on what the scriptwriters decided to focus on. Personally, I felt there was too much time given to the princesses and the bullying in the palace. Show it once and move on since there are much more interesting plot arcs in the novel.

I love QiQi so much! I think she was the first one who stepped in to defend SS, even more quickly than her mother... Now I need to go and rewatch that scene 🤣

Yes, there is no need to rush. 😊

No, SS does not become friends with any of the princesses. I believe the 2nd Princess respects her, but they are not close. In general, apart from the Empress and the older lady who takes care of the Empress (sorry forgot her name), she has better relationships with the men in the palace from lower rank (guards) to the highest - princes.

I like the poster you edited better. It's a close up and eye catching.

I like your point about age being related to life experiences. In the end, both SS and LBY are naive and experienced about different things. That is why it is interesting to see them grow together as individuals and as a couple.

You've made many strong and interesting points, but I think the third one is the most compelling. Bottom line, LBY doesn't trust that SS will chose him regardless of the situation or people involved. It reminds me of that drowning analogy in ep 15. LBY said that you can't please everyone and saving his loved one is the top priority. Ironically, when it comes to choosing between revenge and protecting SS, he will choose revenge.

I wholeheartedly agree that the Crown Prince does not have the necessary qualities to be a good ruler. What I disliked about that conversation was that LBY used SS's affection for the Empress as a means to scare her, or even as a weakness to be taken advantage of to pursue his agenda.

Of course. It's a journey towards their understanding and acceptance of each other.

They give us a lot of food for thought!

Yes, I agree that it is nothing personal and objectively speaking the Crown Prince is not Emperor material. But LBY was "raised" by the Empress in the palace and is seen as close to the CP. Acting against their interests is bound to be a shock to most people in the court.

From my knowledge of the novel and how things have transpired in the drama thus far, LBY supports the Third Prince to become the new Crown Prince. That has far reaching consequences, but will negatively impact the current Crown Prince and the Empress as his mother.

Was LBY really sad about her actions during the memorial? Most of us find her behaviour inappropriate for a variety of reasons. But LBY was smiling to himself when asking about SS taking revenge then. I think he likes this vengeful side of her since it makes them kindred souls. Only he operates covertly and she is still impulsive and very upfront about how she takes revenge on those who wrong her.

These 2 episodes felt more like a plot transition to me and had 2 highlights. First, SS caring for the Empress and their discussion tugged so much at my heartstrings. ZLS was adorable in her acting. Second, my impression during the quarrel between LBY and SS was that he was trying to manipulate her.

His arguments about how SS actions may harm the Crown Prince and even Empress (emphasis here) were rather flimsy. The purpose was to take advantage of her feelings towards the Empress so that SS would be afraid to do something in the future. LBY did not anticipate that she could inadvertently ruin his careful plans.

We are seeing the darker side of LBY more clearly. He intentionally keeps her in the dark about palace politics, with some vague warnings to stay away from the Crown Prince/Princess and things are very complicated. Agreed, but SS does not have the power to decide where to go. If she is given a task by her superiors, she needs to fulfill it wherever that may take her and whoever might be involved...

So LBY could give her some brief explanations about how to navigate dangerous situations. As his wife, even if she sits quietly in a corner trouble will knock at the door. I guess LBY wants the best of both worlds - his revenge to run smoothly and a happy love life with SS oblivious to his true nature. And subconsciously he may also be afraid that if SS knows how ruthless he is (including conspiring against the Crown Prince and Empress), she will turn away from him.

Thank you for sharing the symbolism with us!

I love it! Thank you so much for creating this mv! I have a feeling I'll be watching it very often.

Episode 15 is one of my favourites. I would have loved to see LBY show SS around the estate. LY and YS spent 2 hours ''studying". What was she doing in that time period?

How interesting! Like a conversation between all of them to create something great.

I hope no one hurts their back while trying that!