I think this drama should've been more than 12 episodes. Ep 11 spends a lot on political schemes and motivation. The sudden "abolish the monarchy" direction feels like it comes out of nowhere compared to the buildup earlier in the drama. The conflict no feels less centered on Prince I-An journey to be king and more like a last minute twist. Which doesn't really fit since there is only one episode left. If there were more episodes, then its doable but it casts doubt on the direction of the story. They could have made the "abolish the monarchy" more doable if there was more dialogue in earlier episodes of questions the monarchy instead of becoming king. I still like the show but those are my two cents on how the storyline is getting a little weird.
I'm enjoying the dynamic between these two. It feels refreshingly different from most C-dramas, or at least, I haven’t seen one quite like this. The male lead’s arc clearly drives the story, but what really sets it apart from other shows is how the female lead becomes his sword and shield. We typically don't see that in c-dramas (or anywhere else?) She’s not sidelined or reduced to a love interest only, she’s active, powerful, and deeply woven into his journey.
That reversal of the typical roles adds a layer of intensity that keeps, I think, also adds to the audience constantly on edge. It's what makes the show stand out for me. So far, I am thoroughly enjoying this.
That reversal of the typical roles adds a layer of intensity that keeps, I think, also adds to the audience constantly on edge. It's what makes the show stand out for me. So far, I am thoroughly enjoying this.