You might need to rewatch to really appreciate this series

Initially I was hesitant to try watching this series, being firstly it only had 36 episodes and secondly was, it was adapted from a novel. I find it extremely difficult to portray an entire novel story line, chemistry between both main leads into only 36 episodes. It could be due to budgeting reasons, therefore the series was quite short.

The story begins when FL was destined to guard the tomb of the deceased Emperor's mausoleum until she passes. She was briefly rescued by the ML under the order of the future King who had a crush on her. She was then known as the Consort Dowager. FL had a pretty much smooth life as the Consort Dowager. She and the ML bonded through different circumstances. However, happiness lasted for a short while. The future Emperor who saved her, ascended the throne. He had a vision of crowning FL as his consort, wanting her to be the Empress. But this was absurd. FL was a consort of the previous Emperor, and this is considered to be bad luck and inauspicious. But the Emperor doesn't give a flying duck about what anyone says about that.

Fast forward, the ML opens up to the FL after she directly confesses about how she feels constantly. She showed him that if you love someone, you should tell them. And she isnt the kind of person that can be controlled by destiny or others. FL wants to live life her way, not determined by laws or nobility. ML struggles with getting revenge for his younger brother and tries to find clues about his death which led to a 6 year secret investigation. His revenge plot was then paused while he tries to find a balance between pursing love with the FL or continue his revenge for his deceased brother.

This is where I find some might agree and some might disagree. Love prevails after all. ML came from a background where his parents died early before the series as well as his younger brother. He had a good childhood but every member of his family is dead. He is pretty much lonely and has only 1 goal on his mind. ML had to put a good face in front of the noble families who can tell him in his face that low-borns are dogs who are nothing compared to them. But he meets the FL who although comes from nobility, she is humble with her presence. She doesnt change for anyone and is still the same person before she entered the harem and while she was in it. FL broke the ML's barriers and was not afraid to love a person like him. A eunuch. ML eventually falls in love with her and seeks to protect her from the Emperor whose crush has turned to obsession. They did found out who had killed the ML's younger brother but there was a dilemma. And he decided to give up on this revenge. ML feels that he doesn't want the FL to hate him, and live with this ball of regret forever. He knew who killed his sibling, why it happened and what can he do. He chose love afterall, as both him and the FL had sworn to marriage in secrecy. He is her husband and she is his wife. The past can't rule the present. ML wants a life with her.

I think this is where the story falls short. The love was a sign of desperation, frustration and passion. It can only be translated to words due to extreme censorship. I only knew about it about halfway into the series. I watched through the end before watching the deleted scenes. Their desperation and passion can only be seen through these short 10 to 30 sec clips of them. I feel that there is chemistry. It was a mature love where both leads where in the prime of their life. But love was something they both could not have, and want to have. It was indeed a forbidden love. I'm glad that the ML was able to show his passion through his words. He was really desperate for her that he isn't bothered by people knowing about their affair. On my second rewatch, I paused at certain episodes to watch the deleted scenes before continue and it made more sense. Their kisses were indeed hot and top-tier, especially the boat scene.

People talked about Yukee's eyes and how she was more of a second lead. But I feel she brings joy to this role. Her eyes are just naturally large. It doesn't bother me, I'm easily pleased by simple comedy. It just so happens her hobbies relates to mine. Dylan's acting was less stiff with a much more experienced actress. And can I say that I'm glad to see an actress who kisses back? Yes, thank you. Give a try and watch the deleted scenes.

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