JulesL

Likewise. I think the cliches are going to happen, including the 2nd FL and 2nd ML ending up together. That's pretty obvious given their interactions so far. However, I am holding out a slight hope that the ex-wife could be a catalyst for the leads to get back together - like she portraying Eun Ho to be this amazing person and Ji Yun should not let him slip away.

I think he's just hedging at this point, to see which investment is better. Although I think he wants the FL to be with his grandson who obviously wants the same.

I rather the ex-wife not show up. It would be a bit much to include a breakup due to the childhood connection and that, unless it's to pile on more reason for the breakup.

I liked the way they developed the relationship between the daughter and the FL. I have a feeling that there will be some resistance on the woman's part because it doesn't fit her lifestyle, and then we have have at least one episode of breakup because of past connections...Just what I would expect if they go the stereotypical route but I am really hoping that this one would be different!

Can't believe that the show is still trying to keep the charade going between the leads...while everyone else knows. Anyway, things are getting interesting in the non-romantic area. Waiting to see how Deok Su and Lee Eun are going to mess with Master Cheon and the Minister of War...I cannot stand that minister! I fast-forward each time he comes on screen,

I started this morning, thinking I would watch a couple of episodes, but before I knew it, I was done with episode 6.

What a soothing yet sexy show! I love the chemistry and dynamics between the leads and how the romance is progressing. The insight into the world of headhunting is entertaining but it would have been nice if the competition was not straight-up evil and immoral. I would much rather see some good strategies and a battle of wits.

The camera work and directing are great with the pacing, scenes in slow motion and pauses. Plus, the OSTs and background music are all so fitting, elevating the mood of the scenes. Also love the bubbles and petals in the air, they add a surreal feel.

I don't like the childhood backstory angle since it probably will lead to a reason for break-up but we will see. The show might surprise me.

Looking forward to next week!

LOL - "You would be shocked to see how many women I have back at my house"

Poor Jun Hwa…but poor Lee Eun more…I’m glad the stupid phase is over

Then you would love his character in this show! He did such an amazing job!

Yeah not so good in the romance department but at least it is not tragic where one of them dies. Here she has sweet faded memories of someone who made her happy. So I guess it is bittersweet.

LOL - in the end, the guy got his justice! Totally agree, this show hits all the feels and leaves you wanting more!

It's too bad that we didn't see the events unfold more naturally with the officials actually sticking by the Zheng Commissioner instead of this illusion of things working out well for all and XQA has been erased.. It would have been more satisfying that way.

True - now I’m suspecting the princess as well. Did she know I wonder?

Ep 40 really packed a lot in but kept the ML hidden and left us wanting more. The plot twist about who the real manipulator was just mind-blowing!

Thanks all for sharing your enjoyment of this show! It was well worth the time watching these characters - they were truly likable individuals with mad skills. Hopefull,y we get to see them again in Season 2!

No, it's a happy ending. The ML paved the way to clearing corruption and evil within the court and Dafeng and also made sure that his loved ones had good outcomes. It's also an open ending because the ML was erased from everyone's memories, but they still retain what he has shown them in the past. His love interest feels his absence without really knowing why.
Without a proper resolution for the ML, we all want a season 2!

Ep 40 - How I wish Lin An came running as XQA sat on the stairs crying 😭😭😭

Ep 39 - the scene between the Xu family and XQA 😭😭😭

Thank you! At least I will get that satisfaction.

Me too! I wasn't expecting it. Throughout the show, there was never such injustice - I guess the show really wanted to leave us with a deep impression. I really hope that there is a season 2.

I just cannot with this Emperor...I am only at ep 39 but I really hope to see his end.
On a different note - how cool were the Gold Gongs....Yang yan never fails to make an entrance!

Can someone spoil me - did the one eyed evil scum die at least?!

Ep 38 - The conversation between XQA and Commissioner Zheng at the noodle stand was so poignant. Good acting by both - their expressions spoke volumes!