sakie

That kick was satisfying to watch.

I understand his position to be paranoid. After today's performance, I'm sure he's aware of his mother manipulative ways and her involvement with Duke Xue in bringing the Yan family down. He's cognizant once he's passed, his brother may become the Dowager Empress'es and Duke Xue's puppet.

Totally agree. I love it when she goes tete-a-tete with XW, strategizing on how to save Yan family. When they have these convos, they are almost like equal. In an earlier episode, they even act like a married couple when she reprimanded him for not sharing intel, complaining how could they be working as partner to achieve the same goal. Total hubby/wifey vibe scene.

Honestly, I didn't feel much for the Emperor's intelligence until today's eps 15/16. The scene where he told his Empress the reason why Duke Xue wants to annihilate the entire Yan family and his analysis on the whereabout the Yan's troops are situated along with his trust in Xi Wei's capability to deter a bloodshed at the ceremony, he's not so bad after all as a ruler. I could be his fan now, especially if he's going to be a matchmaker for JXN/XW.

Hahaha...don't forget the side to side shots , too. That's how you capture the "Bombastic Side eye...criminal offensive side eye" feel. =P

I think he would pair nicely with the Princess.

It's such a moving scene. The music is nicely paired. Not until this scene was I certain that the uncle has confirmation XW is his nephew.

Double down on Xie Wei for me!!

XW is so progressive with his thinking and teaching. During the Coming of Age ceremony, he intentionally removes "being filial as a son and respectful to elders" in the speech given to Yan Li because it's all BS. Given his background as a son who was forsaken by his own father, there is no need to be filial, and respect has to be earned. He stresses to be upright, true to self, and loyal. Apart from the ceremony, he advocates for the ladies to be taught in politics and other practical teaching other than etiquettes. Love this character!

Based on the speech he delivered to Yan Li during the Coming of Age ceremony, he removed a few lines, but kept the "be loyal" part, I strongly believe he's siding with the Emperor deep down. He's only pretending to be working for Lord JingNan, but we have yet to find out the whole truth of his intention.

Great explanation!!

Your comment made me laugh! 😃

I hear you. At least I made it to the gym and got take out dinner but neglected my chores.

Lol..😀

I watched half an episode and couldn't get into it. Maybe I'll give it another try when there truly isn't anything else to watch before 2024 comes.

Same here. I have 3 dramas slotted for 2023, but sadly I don't think they will be airing anymore due to leads being cancelled or in trouble with the CCP.

I know, right?! I have a feeling it won't be in the show. {Sad Face}

Hahahha...good insight! Love this director!!

Of course JXN resisted. She was a maiden after all and was taken by surprise when he kissed her that passionately.

I LOVE the music, too. The beat is so heavy yet drips like honey.