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That's true. I didn't realise that bit of backstory from the novel. Thanks for sharing. It explains why I kept thinking that she's a 'systems thinker' in the way she approaches concepts. I don't necessarily think that I agree with how CSS' mum chose to 'protect' her daughter from the potential snakepit that is the palace and palace adjacent corridors of power but so much of what she said, from her, albeit limited pov, was not out of character. Similarly the destruction of the last shred of trust and hope for affection CSS had was also in keeping with the way their characters are written. I think that's what makes it emotionally devastating : two people who keep hurting each other despite, in their hearts, trying to be and do better.

Absolutely, yes! I mean historical accuracy went out the window when she was at his residence without her maid. Or came to the palace without an attendant etc. It was a glorious moment. One that I'm not ashamed to say, I watched a couple of times on repeat. I think it showed Shaoshang -- who by the way was terrifically portrayed by ZL that moment when her mother condemns her (whatever the 'benevolent' reason might have been and you see that tiny piece of her that was still holding on to the notion of parental love and trust shatters was brutal to watch. Sorry, I digress, it showed Shaoshang extraordinarily clearly that LBY is a man who can protect what he values regardless of what tempest is raging. He, figuratively, stood in front of her and bluntly expressed how much he values her; and her alone. In a moment of astounding discourtesy he coolly told his mother-in-law to be to be silent. The director did a great job showing us how LBY was attuned to Shaoshang's distress in that situation and he refocused the whole room on himself.
Was that Hollywood? Sure. Do I care? Not in the least!

100% agreed @DramaAjumma @Angeta! I think it's fascinating how much leeway the emperor gives Zisheng. It's like he's got a seething wolf, a hairsbreadth away from a murderous rampage, on a very slender string. (Partly because I assume he recognises the bedrock of Zisheng's loyalty to him & based on his mysterious past with the Zisheng's uncle) And this whole proposal scene really hones in on that..LBY uses the emperor's clout to strategically propose and confirm Shaoshang as his betrothed. It was interesting to see how the crown prince and prince 3 also nudged the circle closed using completely different tactics. But LBY got the result he wanted, And the emperor was on board with all of it. As a "pillar of the nation" LBY's marriage is of political importance as well, Shaoshang doesn't rock political waters -- because there is limited clout to exploit not to mention she herself is seen as coming with so much baggage - that if anything, she's viewed as a social and political detriment rather than someone who can add to LBY's scope of authority and influence.

Ikr! It's crazy. You sit there and watch the first round with subs, then next round focusing on the meaning and the scene, and then third round to really milk every tiny little emotional flicker and non-verbal cue. Sigh. It's a full time job, this drama, I tell you! 😆

Enjoyable blog post, thanks! Now, I have something to bounce off my thinky-thoughts...so much of this drama is in the micro expressions, the word choices and the emotional journeys of our ensemble cast, but especially, our leads.

That's what I think too...it's too early to say though, one way or the other. I hope that as someone who was cheated on and dumped by his ex (she was with a colleague, I think) Babi won't do the same. So far, I think he's been a lovely boyfriend so I'm giving the drama the benefit of the doubt i.e. he's a nice man and this, whatever it is, is a misunderstanding.

The mum is actually alright in this one. I think the dad will have a major case of the histrionics but so far it's all massively less offensive and toxic than SITR. Unfortunately, our leads don't have the electrifying chemistry of the original leads either. But less complicated and difficult dynamics. Have a look once it's closer the end maybe? The comments may give you a better sense of how the family and lead interactions played out.

Thanks. It's a bit weird tho. The schedule for North America seems to have changed abruptly.

Has the release schedule changed? Does anyone know? I use IQIY vip and there haven't been new eps. Thanks!

So peeps, quick question, does anyone know the title and singer of that beautifully moody sing near the end of ep 3 when Babi and Yumi are in the car? Yes, THAT one! 🔥 I can't find it and it's lovely. Please and thanks, folks!

Hahahaha! Calling it like you feel it. 😂 Nice

Haha she's definitely becoming worse. Sigh. Ah well. I suppose credit to her for doing her job well. I'm not going to be able to watch her in another drama anytime soon. That cloying twang is going to stick with me for a while.

Hahahahahahaha!

I get what you're saying that she serves a purpose but must she serve in such a demeaning fashion? Possibly not the best word choice but you know what I mean? I get tired of one dimensional female characters written to elicit the audience's dislike. Surely scriptwriters can do better...it is 2022 after all. 🤷🏽

So true. Although some adaptations are better than others. That's not a criticism of this one. I haven't read the source material. I like the cast. And the misunderstanding has happen to move the plot forward. Not to mention, who hasn't used the classic avoidance technique? Lol. I mean, it's a classic for a reason. It's a shame that a the smexy times seem to be reserved for future-probable-scenarios rather than the present. Ah well. Let's see what the next set of eps bring. I'm just happy they've finally chosen an age appropriate cast with sensible attitudes towards dating rather than wannabe virginal tweens . 🥳

I wish they had made the 2 FL less annoying. Why do writers do this to what could be reasonably serviceable characters? She makes me want to claw my eyes and ears off every time she talks because it's inevitably bitchy, whiny and stupid. Instead of being able to slap her silly, I take great pleasure in pressing the forward button!! UGH.

No problem! If you're in the mood then I'd say give it a go. 🙂

It is brilliant so far!

The FL is capable and competent. Acting is good too. But in terms of the narrative, she's less fleshed out than the 4 main male characters. It's more of an ensemble drama. So far the story and acting is top notch. If you're into twisty noir then this, to date. is cleverly done.

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