#such a close traitor kdrama

[kimseo-wan]

Can't believe no one has made fanart of him yet !!

Dae-hong my beloved

[valiantwarrior37]

THIS. ENTIRE. SCENE.

"I am the king of the Kingdom of Corea, and the owner of the Four Tiger Sword and the one who will carry out your capital punishment."

[buldakdrama]

5 Fantasy K-Drama to take you on a trip to Fantasia

K-dramas have always been the biggest and best escape for us fans. After a long and tiring day at work or school, all we want is to melt down into the couch and watch our comfort Kdramas for the ultimate healing. This comfort may add up with some thrill and excitement and take the overall experience on a different level when the theme of the drama deals with fantasy.

Just imagine, a bowl full of snacks and a magical mystical drama to make you forget about all the struggles about the day - exciting, isn’t it? 

This is what brings us here today to write about the 5 fantasy K-dramas that will leave you wailing for more. So, let's get into the list, 

1. Goblin - The lonely and great god (2016)

When the talk is about fantasy k-dramas, there is no way Goblin - the lonely and great god can be missed!  This 2016 drama is undoubtedly one of the exemplary ones in kdrama history. It tells the story of a military general Kim Shin, played by Gong Yoo, who is framed and killed as a traitor. He, however, becomes an immortal Goblin because of the curse he receives from the almighty. The only person to help break his curse is Goblin’s Bride, played by Kim Go Eun as Ji Eun Tak. This drama also features Lee Dong Wook and Yoo In Na in two very interesting roles. The storyline progresses as the Goblin meets Ji Eun Tak and falls in love on the way to seek his respite from his immortal life. Ji Eun Tak also accepts magical changes in her life brought by the Goblin. This drama is a perfect inclusion in your list if you fancy supernatural boyfriends. Moreover, the magical elements, such as seeing ghosts, opening doors to different places, flying cutlery, summoning Goblin with a blown-out candle etc., can work as the perfect distraction of the heavy angst hidden behind. All in all, this drama certainly has the potential to become one of your most favorite dramas of all time and that is why you should give it a try if you have not yet. 

2. Hotel Del Luna (2019)

Till this date Hotel Del Luna is one of the most unique dramas to be ever made. From the plot to the characterization, everything is unmatched. This 2019 fantasy drama deals with the story of a supernatural hotel, where the souls of deceased people come and rest for a few days before they carry on their journey towards their next life. Hotel Del Luna is run by Jung Man Wol, played by IU, who is bound to this hotel in a neither alive nor dead state due to the sins she committed in her lifetime. The only way Jung Man Wol can break free is by seeing off the very last guest of the hotel. However, for that she needs some assistance and that is provided by the hotel’s new manager Koo Chan Sung, played by Yoo Jin Goo. The story unfolds one by one as Man Wol and Chan Sung solve various issues associated with the guests of the hotel, gradually seeing off the staff Man Wol has worked closely with. This magical theme of the drama goes hand in hand with the philosophical development. Man Wol and Chan Sung duo sometimes fight evil spirits with magical powers and sometimes they root for helping out their ghost guests with their (freshly-ended) life conflicts as they keep on entertaining the viewers without a single boring episode. Hotel Del Luna not only brings a magical refreshment but also enriches the viewers with some crucial life lessons in a very philosophical way. And that is what makes it a must watch for you.

3. Tale of the Nine tailed (2020)

Are you interested in Korean folklore? And do you enjoy horror? If yes, then Tale of the Nine Tailed is the right drama for you. This 2020 drama tells of a tale associated with a Gumiho, nine tailed fox and his immortal journey to find his first love’s reincarnated version in 2020. Lee Yeon, played by Lee Dong Wook, is a nine tailed fox who gave up his mountain spirit position to find his first love, A Eum, again. A Eum is now reincarnated as Nam Ji Ah, played by Jo Bo Ah, who comes across Lee Yeon while looking for her lost parents. The story progresses when Lee Rang, Lee Yeon’s brother (played by Kim Bum), wakes up the imoogi in order to take revenge on his brother. Imoogi, played by Lee Tae Ri, is the main villain of the story and makes the drama more and more intriguing. The drama is sometimes bone-chilling, sometimes packed with action and sometimes deals with loneliness of the characters’ lives. Again, if you are a fan of the supernatural boyfriend trope then you are bound to enjoy Tale of the Nine tailed.

4. The King: Eternal Monarch (2019)

Fantasy mixed with royalty, that too in modern context? Perfect, isn’t it? Yes, that is what you get from The King: Eternal Monarch. The story of this 2019 drama sets in place when the King of Kingdom of Corea, Lee Gon, played by Lee Min Ho, finds a door that leads him to a parallel world, and he lands in Republic of Korea. There he comes across Lieutenant Jung Tae Eul, played by Kim Go Eun, someone he already knew but never got to see before. They fall in love as the story progresses but start to face several complications as two different worlds start mixing up with each other due to the villain’s advances. The fantasia of this drama lies in the magical power of a royal flute, which can open doors to several different versions of the universe, can delay death and age, can change, stop and help in traveling through time. The drama is a perfect example of a rom-com with a magical backdrop, a perfect choice when you need something light-hearted yet thrilling to enjoy.

5. The Sound of Magic (2022)

“Annarasumanara” – the sound of magic, is the most realistic fantasy drama to be included in the list. This 2022 drama represents a perfect picturization of struggles and survivals. The story deals with the life of a young, intelligent yet poor schoolgirl Yoon Ah Yi, played by Choi Sung Eun. She fights for her survival each day as she tries to pay off her father’s debt while paying for her and her sister’s school fees all alone. By the turn of events, she meets Ri Eul, played by Ji Chang Wook, who is a magician sheltered in an abandoned amusement park. Ri Eul brings a wave of magic and happiness in the tough life of Yoon Ah Yi and soon they get another companion, Na Il Deung. Na Il Deung, played by Hwang In Youp, is Yoon Ah Yi’s classmate and the top student, who is immensely burdened with his parents’ expectations. Both of them try to find a respite from their real life struggles with the help of Ri Eul’s magic. With only 6 episodes this drama can make you cry and smile at the same time. The character of Ri Eul is so mysterious yet so touching that it will leave you wanting for more, especially because of the twist in the end.

So, this is our list of 5 fantasy Kdramas that will take you on a trip to fantasia. Nevertheless, Doom at your service, Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, Moon Lovers: Scarlet heart, My Love From The Star etc. are some of the standard recommendations that you can go with without any hesitation.

-- Admin Nika

[redvelvetgyal]

RENEGADES //

TOPGUN MAVERICK AU

During 1995 there was a different cold war happening. People with superhuman abilities started to emerge, and the world's governments decided to make these individuals their elite black ops agents.

After failing a high-stakes mission, black ops agent Sage “Supernova” Johnson is demoted to an office day job. Until one day she gets a chance to redeem herself with a simple mission: Get close to top agent Jake “Hangman” Seresin, find out if he is ready for the most important mission of his life or if he is a traitor.

However, the mission is not as easy as it seems. Hangman is untouchable, cocky and too clever for his own good. Everything Sage loathes in a man. How could she ever want to get close to someone like him ?

(This story is not original and inspired by the kdrama. Moving, if you have not watched it, I highly recommend that characters are also not mine they are from top gun maverick)

[filthy-mudeoki]

Guardian: The lonely and great god 쓸쓸하고 찬란하神 – 도깨비

Review and rambles

4. Guardian: The lonely and great god (9/10)

(16 Episodes) (2016)

[Gong Yoo, Lee Dong-wook. Kim Go-eun]

Synopsis: 

A once highly decorated military general from the Goryeo Dynasty, Kim Shin is framed as a traitor and killed. He is cursed by the Almight to stay immortal forever and has to endure seeing his loved ones die as punishment for all the soldiers he killed. He becomes an immortal goblin who helps people with their problems. The only way to end his painful existence is through the Goblin bride who is destined to pull the sword embedded in his chest and thus ending his immortality. Enter Ji Eun-tak a bubbly and jovial high school teenager, despite the tragic life she has had. Through chance and fate, she summons the Goblin and their lives become intertwined. In addition, Kim Shin’s nephew leases his house to a Grim Reaper and the three end up living together as they try to wade through their fates. It’s not all left to chance as the story unfolds, it reveals that they’re not mere strangers but people with closely related relations. 

Review: 

When it comes to fantasy kdramas – or just kdramas in general, this one carries the entire genre on its back. It’s breathtakingly, heartbreakingly beautiful and filled to the brim with everything you want in a kdrama. 

Not going to lie, it’s pretty heavy on the plot and intense dialogue. There is a lot of self -reflection and a lot of the characters are wrapped in tight angst blankets. But … is that not what we live for?

 The chemistry between Kim Shin and Ji Eun-tak  was interesting because its not quite what you’d expect but somehow it still manages to tear your heart into pieces (don’t worry, they put it back together again). I felt like we definitely could have had more from the nephew (Yook Sung -jae) as he was particularly enjoyable. The secondary couple, the Grim Reaper (Lee Dong Wook) and  Sunny (Yoo In-na) steal the show more than the first at times and its beyond charming. They’re amazing together and bring a much-needed touch of light-heartedness to an otherwise very heavy on the feels plot.

The issues surrounding life and death, mortality and such are well introduced into the show. The whole series is quotable and don’t we just love that from a drama? They give you plenty to think about yet it somehow doesn’t feel too heavy on the mind. 

The cast and performance: 

The amazing performance by Gong Yoo and Lee Dong Wook is unforgettable. Honestly, they steal the whole damn show. I’d watch a whole spin off series based on the adventures of the Goblin and the Grim Reaper. A good source of the humour and heartfelt moments comes from these two. Its almost unintentional and that what kinda steals your heart and breath all in one go. Kim Go-eun is a stunning female lead. She lends a good performance to a very demanding role and her character develops well over the episodes. 

OST: 

This is a therapy kdrama. If you need the emotional release, this what you should be watching. And if you don’t want to watch it, just listen to the soundtrack because that too was flawless. Seriously, just go listen to this OST because it is one that you will not regret. It’s got some of the most iconic and well-known tracks to come from a kdrama series. I’m pretty sure Stay with me has its own fanbase at this point. There are plenty of wonderful tracks that could float the entire fandom with all the tears you’re bound to shed. 

 Final thoughts: 

The first episode opens with a heartbreak and the last episode does not hold back any punches either but it does provide you with an ending that fills you with hope as there is a semblance of a happy ending. This kdrama takes you on one helluva emotional rollercoaster but you won’t regret it one bit. It’s an absolute journey and for anybody wanting to appreciate Kdrama at its ultimate peak should definitely give this a watch.

[pantoneyoongi]

i kept quiet so i could keep you

title ; i kept quiet so i could keep you i know that you’ll never feel sorry for the way i hurt

notes ; 

part of the till the night is over drabble series. drabbles are not released in chronological order, but the masterlist is set up as chronologically as possible. :) 

title is from olivia rodrigo’s “traitor”

word count ; 2.2k

tags ; angst, uh yeah it’s just angst, one (1) probably too kdrama-esque line from tae, pls go to masterlist for more / general tags 

when your emotions get too strong and you don’t know how to deal with them, you hide. 

it’s the only way you really know how to cope. you hide from your friends, you hide from the world, you hide from yourself. you pretend like you’re just busy, drowning in projects and upcoming exams and anything you can possibly think of. you pick up extra shifts at work so you don’t have to think about jungkook. 

jungkook.

you’re doing it again. thinking about him, that is. it’s hard not to when it’s two fucking am and you’ve somehow managed to already burn through all your homework and read and re-read your notes until it feels like your eyes will bleed and it’s not like you can have a shift at 2am so all that’s left is for you to stare at your ceiling wishing you could fall asleep instead of feeling the ache in your chest burn ugly across the planes of your body, consuming you slowly. 

you just want all the noise in your head to go away. 

you scrub your eyes roughly with the palms of your hands. it’s so constant - when you get a minute alone and all that’s in your head is memories of jungkook, flying through at a speed so fast that the memories don’t even get to finish properly before it’s playing the next scene. like a shitty fucking film. 

with a sigh, you sit up in your bed, running a tired hand through your hair. your hand drops limply back down to your lap as you sit in the dark, the only light being the thin strip of moonlight peeking through your curtains. 

for once, you just want to stop thinking about jungkook. 

it’s exhausting. tears well up in your eyes but you can’t cry, you’re just too tired. you feel like a teenager all over again, like the day you figured out you liked jungkook but he wasn’t yours. that he couldn’t be. you must’ve known, back then. that he was never going to be. 

you wish you would’ve known things would turn out this way, too. 

because it turns out that having your heart broken by someone you call a friend is much worse than having your heart broken by someone you’re in love with. 

.

.

.

jihyo shows up at your door with a pint of ice cream and a look that more or less says ‘the ice cream is technically a bribe, but also i’m coming in anyway.’ you have half a mind to shut the door on her, but also that’s chocolate fudge brownie from ben & jerry’s and honestly jihyo is definitely stronger than you are and could shove the door open before you even have a chance to think twice about it. 

you heave a dramatic sigh, like you’re the one doing her a favor by letting her in, and she gives you a smug smile before passing you the pint while she closes the door behind her. the two of you curl up on your couch, on either corner. 

“so…” jihyo starts. “you wanna talk about it?” 

you stare at jihyo with dead eyes and make a point of stabbing your ice cream with your spoon. 

she chuckles, then unfurls herself from the little ball she’d curled herself into in the corner of the couch, leaning forward a little. “y/n, you can’t bottle it up forever.” 

“been doing great so far,” you mutter, taking a spoonful of ice cream. jihyo sighs. 

“y/n.” 

you look up at her, mouth still wrapped around your spoon of ice cream. she smiles wryly at the sight. you’re still hiding. ducked away behind a pretense of nonchalance even when your entire being screams of heartbreak, from your messy hair to the sweats you’re in, all the way down to the fucking ice cream in your hands right now. 

jihyo has always been gentle. it’s in her nature. jihyo is the kind of person people fall back on when they want to land softly. but when she says, “you know it’s okay to be hurt, right?” - it feels like shattering. 

.

.

.

you cry. a lot. to be quite frank you’re a little impressed by just how much you can cry, especially after the literal breakdown you had in jihyo’s dorm a little over a week ago. maybe it’s just years of crawling after jungkook with rose-tinted glasses accumulated into all these tears that can’t seem to stop. 

by the time you’re done, you feel drained. your throat hurts, your eyes hurt, everything hurts. but you feel a little lighter, even if the pang in your chest still remains.

you’re rambling to jihyo, feet propped in her lap while you lay back, staring at the ceiling. you’re not really sure what you’re saying either, just that it keeps coming out of you and you can’t stop. 

“he cheated,” you mumble, eyes glued to the ceiling. “i wanted to ask him and i just couldn’t. and he wasn’t gonna tell me either, i could tell. not like last time, with jisoo. and i just felt sick. i physically felt sick to my stomach because how could he act like nothing was wrong after he did that? how could he just go behind someone’s back like that, knowingly hurt someone in that way, make the same mistakes twice because i - i know him. i know jungkook. i promised everyone he was better than this, promised myself that he cared enough about people to not hurt them so blatantly and…” you trail off, throwing an arm over your eyes. “and i was wrong.” your voice wavers. “i was wrong because jungkook is exactly the kind of person who hurts people constantly and i just… don’t know how to come to terms with the fact that - that the way he treats me…” 

you don’t know how to finish that sentence. the way he treats you like you mean something to him? the way he treats you like you mean nothing to him?

“y/n, you realize he treats you just like he treated jisoo and nayeon, right? it’s all the same shit,” jihyo says. “he’s sweet on you, makes you feel special, says all the right things to make you believe him. then he tears all of it away, finds someone new, doesn’t even stick around to clean up the damage he left behind. the only difference between you and his ex-girlfriends is that he never gave you the title. so he can keep doing this to you over and over again. everyone else can choose to walk away. but he calls you his friend so he gets to do it again and again and pretend that because you’re his friend you have to keep forgiving him for it.”

you’re shaking your head without realizing, but you know she’s right. it’s just hard to hear. you want to defend him. you want to say she’s wrong. but she’s not. you’ve ripped off your rose-tinted glasses, and it’s blinding. “why?” you choke out. “why would he…” 

doesn’t he know how much you love him?

the tears are rising to your eyes again, helplessly. jihyo is silent for a little while, because what can you say about someone you considered a friend, using you until you’ve run dry? 

“i don’t know,” she murmurs. you can hear the apology in her voice. “jungkook is… all i know is he’s hurting a lot too. and people who are hurt, tend to hurt other people too.” 

“that’s not a good enough excuse anymore,” you squeeze your eyes shut. it pains you to admit it out loud. “i can’t keep forgiving him just because he’s fucked up inside. i tried so hard for it to be enough. to love him enough for him to stop hurting people. to forgive him so he could forgive himself but i just can’t keep doing this anymore.” 

a sob slips out of you as you press your arm harder against your eyes. 

you can’t keep fighting for jungkook anymore. 

.

.

.

taehyung showing up at your apartment is the last thing you expected, to be honest. though in retrospect, maybe you should have. 

in taehyung’s defense, you haven’t been answering your texts. or calls. you haven’t been answering anything from him at all, period. you can fake it in front of everyone else, but not him. you can’t bring yourself to lie to him, so instead you’ve been ignoring him. 

he shows up at your door, worried. jihyo blinks up at him in surprise, and he blinks back down at her, equally surprised. 

“uh,” he shifts his weight from foot to foot awkwardly. “is y/n here?” 

“uh,” jihyo echoes him, glancing back at you. you’re still on the couch, curled into a miserable ball. the ice cream she’d brought you is half-empty, starting to melt from being left out on the table. “i don’t think she’s in the mood for visitors.” 

taehyung frowns. “aren’t you a visitor?” 

jihyo clears her throat. “well. yes.” 

taehyung scratches the back of his head. “oh. okay. if now isn’t a good time-“ 

“just let him in,” your voice comes from inside the apartment, and taehyung’s eyebrows immediately knit together in concern at how weary you sound. “it’s fine, jihyo.” 

she hesitates, but nevertheless opens the door wider to let him in. he steps inside, surveying the room, eyes searching until they find you. 

you’ve crawled up from your spot on the couch, putting the melting ice cream into the freezer and standing in your kitchen with a glass of water. he can see the bags under your eyes, the slouch in your shoulders. you glance towards him, too worn out to care about your current state of being in front of him. 

“hey,” he kicks off his shoes and steps towards you. he meets you at the kitchen counter, standing across from you. “you weren’t really answering your texts, so i…” he gestures to your apartment around you. he takes in the red rims around your eyes, the way you can barely meet his eyes. “are you okay?” 

“i’m fine.” 

your answer is curt. you’re doing it again, blocking him out, in spite of having just poured your heart and tears out to jihyo not long ago. but taehyung isn’t jihyo, and both of you know too well the difference. taehyung observes you carefully. the longer his eyes are on you, the more you feel like he’s peeling back layers, unraveling you until he’s found the part of you that’s tender, weak, vulnerable. 

“stop looking at me like that,” your voice is barely audible. you can’t meet his eyes; you don’t know how you’ll react if you do. what parts of you will simply destruct, leaving you open for him. 

“i can’t,” taehyung says quietly. “some other guy is hurting you and if i look away too soon i might accidentally on purpose go hunt him down and break him.” 

that’s when you look at him. he looks calm, but his shoulders are tense, hands curled tightly in his fists at his sides. dark eyes bore into yours, and some part of you recognizes that taehyung is distinctly unfamiliar, that you don’t have almost a decade’s worth of history with him. you can’t even recognize what emotion it is that he’s staring you down with. all you know is that in spite of it all, in spite of his words, in spite of the way you’re sure his nails are biting into his palms, he feels safe. 

you set your glass down on the counter. “you? break someone? with your scrawny ass?” you try to joke. taehyung doesn’t smile but his body does seem to relax a little. 

“i’m worried about you,” he admits. it makes you falter, lowering your head. 

“jungkook has broken my heart any number of times and in any number of ways since the day i met him,” your eyes flick up to meet taehyung’s. “i’ll be okay. i just have to finally accept that it’s time to let him go.” 

.

.

.

when jihyo and taehyung have both gone, your mind still lingers on jungkook, stuck there. all the broken fragments of time and memories and what you know of him swirl in your head. you lay on the floor of your bedroom but it feels like you’re hovering, drifting above ground, aimless. 

loving jungkook has hurt from the very beginning. even the very first sparks of your crush on him had static-shocked you back, flinches of pain through your nervous system. you never got a chance to fall in love with him in a gentle way. your first love is just a series of mistakes and scars and lessons you refused to learn. 

you didn’t even know you’d wanted a fairytale first love. not until it was taken away from you. 

you wonder if maybe it was just the idea of jungkook. maybe that’s what you fell in love with. everything about you and him together - it had all seemed to align so perfectly. 

you ran in the same circles. you grew up together. his family adored you, you were friends with his sister. you fit so well into his world that you forgot he barely fit into yours. that every time he stepped into your life, the dream shattered. the picture changed. 

perfect isn’t real. in the end, jungkook doesn’t love you. even as friends. 

jungkook doesn’t love anyone enough to change. 

other drabbles in the series: see you with her || nothing like us 

series masterlist: till the night is over

taglist: @mwitsmejk @doublejeon @landl7xoxo @notvantaes

[nettlestonenell]

Let’s talk.

Citizens of the Republic, Subjects of the Kingdom, and Gentle Readers, here you will find Part 3 of a failing attempt to dictate my thoughts during a The King: Eternal Monarch rewatch.

Touching on topics such as:

the Netflix-available trailer review

how looking like you stepped out of a manhwa might harm your career trajectory

other ways in which Netflix destroys my constant-pause viewing style and how to switch them off

Hangul v. Hanja

thoughts on the opening credits

Anyway, back to the trailer. Does this trailer, is the question, does it make me wanna watch this show? 

I'll watch it again, it's one minute long and then I'll review it. 

Actually, it says god had released demons into the world and it shows us the flute. And it talks about how demons opened up the passage to a parallel world, OK, so my review of the trailer is that trailers on Kdramas are really hard for me because I have to read subtitles. This trailer is full of a lot of quick cuts, and so because of that, I can't really absorb what is generally going on. 

And of course, TKEM trailer is gonna be even more confusing because it's babbling on about parallel worlds and doppelgangers and all these other things. It's just too much to keep track of. Obviously, it makes sense to me now because I've watched the show. But in so far as something that would make me wanna watch the show, I don't think that it would. 

Now mind you, most Kdrama trailers are not gonna make me want to watch the show that they're for, 'cause once again It's just like my eyeballs are pingpong-ing between trying to see what is going on and reading subtitles. And it's just System overload. 

It has really, it has some of the great music. That great instrumental? I'm not gonna know what to call it, but maybe I'll look up what instrumental that is that's playing. [I didn’t] It shows a little bit of that high-level, that elevated cinematography that you're gonna get [on this show]. That's very pretty. And then of course, while I don't know that it fully highlights him, because it does, but I think it probably does highlight him. It shows you LMH and it just brings to mind the quote that I heard, one of the directors said for Gangnam Blues, which was that he looks like he stepped out of a manhwa. [the director mentioned this when saying that quality got in the way of whether he should cast LMH in the role he ultimately got] And I mean, the person that said this, I think it tickled them and made them giggle in the same way that it makes me giggle because I find LMH to just be ridiculously striking on-screen, particularly in TKEM. 

And of course, LMH's got all these glamour shots taken of him as if it's the 1940s, black-and-white-Hollywood, where they’d take four days to film an actress’s perfect close-up. So they’d look peak beautiful. 

LMH definitely hits all of those notes in this trailer where you might have to just take a minute after watching it and try to, I don't know, recompose yourself, take a sip of water or find your smelling salts. 

Someone bring KGE a glass of water, or a cold towel. As shown, her working conditions are egregious.

But if you looked back to the subtitles, it definitely says that the portal is opened by demons, so I don't know. I think I might have to ask. I can't think of her name. I'll have to look it up [@accioecho​ ] to get in her asks and see if she would translate the word as ‘demons’ when we're looking at the flute, or if that's referring to the Traitor. Who? What are the demons? But then also it, of course, as I say, it said that god had let demons into the world. Does that make The Dragon King of the East Sea god? I mean, he does seem to be a divinity in Korean culture. But as far as I can tell, not having studied Korean culture, there is polytheism at work historically. There are many deities. So, I don't know. Which god are we talking about?

I mean, somebody started us down this path before the Traitor took the wheel

Are we ready to start watching this? Says I've talked 5 pages. And I don't know if that makes me ready to start watching the show or not.

This is a show that I like to watch at night. When it's dark outside. Because for whatever reason, it's a show that makes me feel very cozy. Obviously, your mileage may vary as to whether this show makes you feel cozy, and I'm sure it didn't make me feel cozy when I originally watched it, because how could it?

I will also say that I'm tickled that Netflix has finally added a double thumbs up ability for me in rating the show because that was an issue that I was having that Netflix would always be asking me to rate things and I would think well, you know, I liked it, but did I like it the same as Rookie Historian? No, I liked Rookie Historian just fine. I liked it a reasonable amount. It scratched the itch that I had and I found it a pleasant experience, but I would not put it on the same par as this show which obviously is enough of an obsession that I am now talking to you about it, into a voice dictating word processing program.

If you don't think that every time that I hear the da dong of the Netflix “N” coming up on my screen and think of Eun Sup folding laundry, then you’re wrong.

 Additionally, it is not lost on me that this is also the product of Studio Dragon, just like Crash Landing on You. Generally, when I was originally watching the show, I would skip after watching the credits once, I would consistently skip the credits. I don't do that now. I think because originally I was just very anxious to get down to business. I needed to see what was gonna happen on the show. But now I find the credits really enjoyable. They're moody, the music is cool. There's a lot to look at, and so I appreciate it more.

The icon which is, I don't know, the writing that has a clock sunk into it, and the clock is ticking backwards. Other than hopefully I think it means to show that time is not functioning properly, it's not like we really turn time backwards here, is it? I guess you could say that going back to the night of the treason is in a sense turning time backwards, but then we don't have to relive it in the same way, we don't really live through all of that time [again]. Anyway, it I like it. I like the ticking. I know that they use it in a couple of episodes at the end. I'm not sure that they use it in every one. I guess we'll find out [in this rewatch]. But I think it's effective.

Interestingly, although in canon the flute is made of bamboo, I think it's mentioned several times and then also historically the flute, which if you look it up, is a historical item, though no one that talks about it travelling between worlds, but the Manpasikjeok is definitely a historical item, and it is made of bamboo. But the tree that we're shown in the credits. I think is not. It's certainly not a bamboo tree. Is it a ginkgo tree?

Of the [kdrama] shows that I've seen, I feel like this is one of the few shows or possibly the only show that's going to give you both English and Korean for the names in the credits. Is it the Hangul or the Hanja? [I think Hangul] And then a Westernized version and one without hyphens, whichever one that is [it’s neither Revised Romanization or McCune–Reischauer, those would be: Revised Romanization= Gim Go-eun McCune–Reischauer= Kim Koŭn, it’s like a hybrid] of actors’ names. So that to me is interesting [the notion that already with the credits we are being shown that this program is expected to appeal to audiences outside of Korea].

But here's this first shot on the bridge where the bridge is twisted and there's someone standing on the bridge. And then we're seeing at the top of the screen it's, the truth is, it's not like we're seeing the Republic and then the Kingdom on the bottom, because we know that the Kingdom also has very highly technologically advanced modern cities, but it is something that's showing duality where we're sort of seeing a version of ancient Korean architecture on the bottom of the screen,

This is the yellow screen that has LMH and KGE’s names in the opener. 

If a person is Korean, some of the buildings, when they start showing specific things they're gonna maybe be notable. We get like an arch, which of course to my Western eyes anytime there's an arch I think of L’Arc de Triomphe in Paris, which obviously this is not, but I assume that it might be a significant Korean landmark. 

(also it morphs into another arch) 

And then we end on an image that I just adore with all my being:

You've got the statue of Admiral Yi Sun-Shin in the background at Gwanghwamun Square, which I was familiar with before, when I truly watched (not that first time when I gave up)-- I was aware of that square because of Memories of the Alhambra where people are like fighting in it when they're fighting in their altered reality. 

But this, this image I really love, so I paused Netflix and I like this image a whole lot where she's opposite him on the horse. And there's the reflection in the water. And it's just beautiful. 

What doesn’t it tell you about this show? There’s reflection, calling out the parallel worlds in the water, but also Lee Gon’s side is bluer, Tae-Eul’s is yellow/orange, they’re in opposition to each other. We’re in Seoul, the wind has JTE’s coat but not Maximus’ tail. Lee Gon not only looks white knightly/kingly, he’s seated on a very tall horse, elevated from JTE who stands on the ground in her very regular trenchcoat. The leads are not on equal footing. 

The image is epic, showing the type of story we’re going to get, and the high quality of the cinematography to come is also teased by it. It is, as GBBO would say, an absolute showstopper.

I could talk about it for a long time, probably, but this brings me to this annoyance that I currently have with Netflix that I don't know that I can stop, and that is when all they want to do is slap these advertisements over a paused image. 

I like the paused image. I wanted to see it, but I can't see it, because now you're telling me I need to watch Hi, Bye, Mama. And this is not like much time elapses as I'm sure you know. If you watch Netflix, before this pops up, this pops up Kaboom almost instantly. And I don't know if that's 'cause they don't want me to take a screen grab of it. I mean, I'm watching it on my television so I wouldn't have the ability to do that anyway. Maybe i need to get down into the Netflix settings and see if there's some way to get rid of this but boo i hate it.

For me at least, these advertisements popping up are newer. I used to spend time like trying to look in the reflection [of the image] to see if things were different, of them standing on the square, looking at each other, but I have not been able to discover if anything is different. I I think it's the same. I think that it's the actual reflection of what we're looking at, but you can never be too sure with this show, 'cause this the show has got a lot for you to look at on reviewing, as I'm sure you know if you're willing to still be reading six page in.

[PSA:: Here’s how I found you can turn off those image suggestions that pop up when you pause Netflix:] There's a way to turn them off.

Account page, scroll down to the link for "test participation"

Once you are in the test-participation page, simply toggle the button to "off"]

...tbc..

Good news! In the next post we’ll actually start the show!

[skeptiquewrites]

My ten favourite female characters

Did I get tagged? No, but I'm procrastinating. Thank you @sketchyblondes! In no particular order (trying my best to think about the source materials and not my projections LOL):

1. Hermione Granger (HP) 2. Isabelle Lightwood (Shadowhunters TV Show) 3. Baru Cormorant (The Traitor Baru Cormorant by Seth Dickinson) 4. Brienne of Tarth (Game of Thrones) 5. Macy Vaughn (Charmed reboot) 6. Seo Yoo-Kyung (Pasta, kdrama) 7. Sango (Inuyasha) 8. Villanelle (Killing Eve) [although a close tie with Eve] 9. Nile Freeman (The Old Guard) 10. Wong Chia Chi (Lust Caution) Honourable mentions: Korra (Legend of Korra), Sansa Stark (Game of Thrones), Andy (The Old Guard), Alice (Luther), Prunella Gentleman (Sorceror to the Crown by Zen Cho) As soon as I hit send I absolutely will realize I've forgotten someone. Tag you're it.

[ningningsdream]

t h i r t y  f o u r | kdrama

summary: “why do yall act like you’re in a kdrama?”

pairing: y/n x jeno

warning(s): none

main masterlist |   kdrama masterlist

"Yah looser, you dead? Hyuck told me you're not answering your phone.", Mark said, entering into his sister's room.

"I just got out of the shower, geez. Tell your boyfriend to calm his ass.", y/n said, standing in front of her mirror while brushing her wet hair in sweatpants with a sweatshirt, and a towel around her neck. She put the towel on her desk chair and went to her phone to unplug it. As the screen lit up, she saw fifty missed calls from Donghyuck, Renjun, Chenle, Jaemin and Jisung. Even one from Mark.

"Wait, why did you call me?", y/n asked, squinting her eyes in a 'what-the-hell' way.

"I was too lazy to get up.", Mark answered, making his sister roll her eyes.

"Dang, they went all out, even Jisung called me and left a voicemail.", she said, looking at all the missed calls and the little message telling her she had five voicemails, one from each of them, "Did they kill someone and need my help to hide the body 'cause yo I saw this pl-"

"What? No! Just come with me.", Mark said, pushing her out of the room by the shoulders. He grabbed a backpack that was laying on the ground outside of her room and continued guiding y/n downstairs.

"Why do you have a backpack?"

"Because we're going to stay the night."

"Where? Where are we going in the middle of the night? Do mom and dad know that we're sneaking out?", she asked, putting her shoes on.

"We're not sneaking out. I left a note on the fridge.", Mark said in a 'duh' tone.

y/n just sat in the passenger seat of Mark's car with a pout on her face wondering where he was taking her. Of course, she trusted Mark, she trusted him with her life, that was why she just rested back in her seat. It's been a few days that her school closed because of some electricity difficulties or something like that and they said that it will only take a week to fix everything so they let the students stay at home for a week. During the past few days, y/n helped her brother with his demos or hung out with the group from time to time, all of them at least once except Jeno. She didn't talk to Jeno at all for the last week or so.

As Mark was driving, y/n remembered her friends' voicemails and took the time to listen to them.

'Hey y/n. It's Jaemin. Uhmm...Can you call me back when you get this? Thank you.'

'Noona, it's Chenle. Why aren't you answering? :( - yes she can hear him do that - Call me back please, it's urgent.'

'y/n-ah, this is Renjun. Are you dead? We've tried calling three times already. Call us back, asap.'

'Yo biss, you still alive? I swear to god if you're sleeping you're going to catch those hands. Oh God I'm just going to call Mark-'

'Noona? It's Jisung....Can you...come to Jeno's place please? It's kind of urgent. Why did you say his name??!! Now she's never going to call back!! I panicked-'

y/n's eyes widened at the voicemail, now understanding where her brother was taking her and as if on cue Mark took a turn in an all too familiar neighborhood, "Are you kidding me? You traitor!"

a/n: i almost finished writing kdrama 🤭

prev next

[ch3rryblossoms24]

Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, a Masterpiece??

I first saw this Kdrama back in 2018, back when I was first getting into watching Kdramas and listening to Kpop. I honestly cannot remember what I thought of the show, but I ended up dropping it once the storyline picked up in intensity. But now that I am a strong uaena (IU fan) and an ongoing EXO-L (EXO fan), I decided to give this show another chance. And I am so glad that I did.

When I rewatched the episodes I saw a few years ago, I laughed and became worried at the same parts. I still hated the 8th Prince (sorry not sorry). And up until this point I also hated his sister, but as I continued watching my opinion on her (I believe her name was Yeon-Hwa?) changed and I loved how cunning she was, even if she was against Hae Soo (IU!; the female lead). Anyways, once I got to the point where I originally dropped the drama, my attention wavered slightly but soon I was extremely hooked.

I find it ironic that one of the reasons why I first dropped the drama is exactly why I became so engaged this second time round. The tone of Scarlet Heart drastically changes in the second half, from a silly palace romance comedy to the serious power struggle of the Princes fighting for the throne. You can also see the love between Hae Soo and Wang So (the 4th Prince and male lead) grow, which is quite adorable. They have a cute romance for a bit, until miscommunication happens and they break up. But, no fear! They get back together and are stronger than ever, which is great especially when it nears the point in the plot where Wang So actively chases the throne and allies are crucial. Finally, Wang So is King and at first it is a great success and they are both happy...until the stress and pressure of keeping allies, the uncertainty of knowing who to trust and the struggles of keeping power in the palace and satisfying other powerful families tears their relationship apart. This process was quite painful to see because you can definitely tell that both characters still love each other, but their circumstances keep going against them and they find it difficult to see eye-to-eye. Finally, Hae Soo leaves the palace and they are separated.

If you didn't pay attention to Hae Soo during hella stressful times, you'd miss that she grabbed her chest in pain multiple times, and staggers. All this leads up to her death, where her illness takes over and she passes away in the...4th male lead's arms, not the first male lead. It's quite sad, since this whole time Hae Soo is just waiting for Wang So to meet her before she dies and he refuses to based on a misunderstanding. So it's heart breaking to see his reaction when he finds out that she's been trying to reach him this whole time and now she's gone.

Speaking of sad scenes, it just felt wrong how Wang Eun (Baekhyun) died. He finally started loving his life with his wife and didn't have one thought of taking the throne for himself, and yet he's ordered to be murdered for being a traitor. At least Wang So could save him some dignity and Wang Eun could die of his own accord. It was also painful to watch Baek-ah and his crushes/lovers. The poor guy just wants to be happy with the one he loves! And Court Lady Oh Soo-yeon! This drama litterally has so many characters dying it's depressing.

In terms of things to critique about it, uh... I did thought that some of the acting was done poorly in the first half of the drama, but once the power struggle picked up I swear that the acting went up by several notches and somehow became so good. I also didn't like the constant face close-ups of the characters. Yes, some of them are good looking, but we really don't need to see their faces up close.

There's just so much that happens in the drama that I lose track of some plot points because some side stories were not as interesting, which is slightly disheartening because everything seems to tie together. I am pretty sure I missed a whole entire side storyline by accident...but nonetheless, I greatly enjoyed this drama. Now I'm just waiting for some time to pass so that I can watch it again like it's the first time (well, like the second time).

[psalm40speakstome]

My lengthy rambles from The Do Do Sol Sol LaLa Sol Finale:

It’s only five minutes in and I can’t handle it.

Right so Hariboji woke up..definitely a yahoo but I’m guessing we’re gonna only be allowed one miracle per episode..

Goodness I think the biggest problem is how it’s still sounding and filming like a romantic comedy...I mean my nervous system can’t handle when it switches so I don’t want it all the time but at the same time it feels like a betrayal.

Haribojo knows.

I’m trying to laugh hard at the funny parts to process, also grunting, yelling and deep breathing to process

Shouting “No” in Korean and “YAH!” A lot this sucks..

Oooh Flight Of The Bumblebee go Jae Min!

Great the most sweetest duet via technology with a montage. It’s so beautiful and heartbreaking and hitting a little to close to home since I’m sick and my family far away is sick

Is anyone recording this for Jun because assuming he’s not dead yet I’d at least like to know he saw it.

Haribojo knows. I mean He really really knows. He’s all of us watching this. That’s to heavy a burden for him to carry alone...

I should know I’m carrying it too.

Oh my gosh I did get joy out of Mimi as Santa and I’m not a dog person but she’s been fabulous

That’s his Mom... he’s already gone so the question about recording is moot.

Sinking feeling sinking feeling

Ugggghhhh whhhhhyyyyy.

I’m crying they’re all crying this isn’t fair.

I don’t watch Kdrama for real life endings

Why is there still like twenty minutes left of this thing.....just break my heart and be done with it. A stupid twenty minutes gives me weird traitorous hope even though I’ve already been broken by all past tense references the “was ill” was etc...” “video recorded a month ago.

And the actual confirmation he died.

And no RaRa did not deserve to have her father die AND the love of her life. Jun didn’t deserve it either and I know that’s not how life works BELIEVE me I know...but I don’t need it in my KDrama that was supposed to end happy.

And her happy in the future without the love of her life is NOT a happy ending to me.....Why must you Bonnie and Enzo me!?

Also that reference to TVD OTP is evidence of my LOVE for RaRa and Jun if my brain is making Bonnie and Enzo parallels.

In the midst of this I’m so proud of myself for processing and feeling my feelings and being present I can’t even. Well done me.

FIIIIIVVVEEE YEARS LATERR!!!!!

Wait a second what happening why is there a baby?

I don’t know if this is good our bad!. I’m conflicted the child is adorable...what?! is it their child?!

If it is and Jun didn’t get to know or meet it I’m still very upset.

Whooooooo’s Appa?!?!

Aaaaaaaaahhhhyhhy wwhwhwwhhhhaaaaatttt iiissishshss. Happpaaaneingging

Oh okay that makes more sense about Appa. And their married that’s cute even in the midst of other things

Great so she’s happy and alone is that’s what happening here? NOT a happy ending but if you marry her to someone else I will cut you so there’s that. This drama is bringing out my salty and violent words side on the internet so I apologize to the writers(I won’t really cut you) (double apologize after seeing the ending...I’m sorry...I was under a lot of stress)

Yes if Ha Yeong gets to join TWD Seung Gi should too.

Awww good for Jae Min

Hariboji died too that’s so great.

Yes talk about the people who are no longer with you but WHY is that’s the case?!?

Yes never forget them

Dr Cha gave his ex wife/current girlfriend lettuce.....Lettuce....aaaahhhh

I’m genuinely happy for all other couples who are together but come on kisses if you are trying to heal my heart with them I WANT kisses. Especially for my five year’s married cuties.

Never going to be over Jun being in pain NEVER.

I have a twitch and it’s probably Lyme related but I’m going to blame this episode.

I’m just waiting for the confusion to drop because I know the ending confusing...I even had my Mom google if he died because I thought it’d be better to know but she couldn’t find out anything and considering some of your reactions I’m wainting for the confusion to hit.

Whaaaaattttssss happening? Goodness he looks good in a suit but what’s happening?

What’s happening you said he died?! Is RaRa dead? Why would he lie? I need an explanation?! Can I hope?! I don’t need it all explained just CAN I HOPE?!

Oh goodness that’s so mean to let me and someone believe your dead...but he’s not dead....I’m crying and laughing like I was at the end of Angel’s Last Mission love...this is going to take time to recover from. Slightly hyper ventilating. Very confused about my feelings

You also need to wipe my tears and help me believe you’re real Jun.

Okay underneath all the Lyme and depression I AM an optimist and I’ve hoped for happy endings with less....but I don’t think this drama will ever be unlinked with sorrow and slight confusion for me because of all the pain I went through.

I’m just hoping I can believe the end more as I process more even though it’s a terrible thing to do to someone and I suffered emotional trauma along with my characters.

I think ever watcher should receive complementary kisses from Lee Jae Wook to help us heal.

So I’m guessing they are saying he though he was dying and maybe he was...I’ve had close calls and so have many I loved. And then there was a miracle but he wanted to wait until fully recovered to tell them...and recover can take a long time. I have Lyme which is just as hard to treat as cancer(more so in some ways because we don’t get the funding...no disrespect in the meant to meant to cancer patients THEY deserve ALL the funding)

And a modest optimism for me would probably be five years at recovery...so I understand the time jump.

And I can’t believe he would make them all believe he was dying unless he thought he was because that’s to cruel....But maybe...I still love him even though that’s terrible. And am very grateful he alive but wouldn’t have minded even more confirmed for my nervous system.

I disconnect a little at the end but still proud of myself for mostly being connected and feeling my feelings....I think waiting was a good idea because despite this raither lengthy feels writing I actually did pretty good emotionally speaking.

I didn’t shut down I actually cried. That’s good for me. And I didn’t feel totally impaled by the sadness! Yay me! And I was even able to connect with my sad dramatic side and enjoy some of the sadness..super proud of myself.

I enjoy Scifi so I’m actually pretty okay with death loopholes and appreciate the writer for using one.

The biggest thing for me is he didn’t die...I can forgive a lot since he didn’t die.

I am still kinda fragile so I can’t really handle discourse about the ending.

Hearts to you and your processing journey but I’m an empath so I can’t really handle others feels at this time.

[kimseo-wan]

ROH JAE-WON FANS IM BEGGING YOU TO PLEASE WATCH "DOUBT"/"SUCH A CLOSE TRAITOR"

ITS SERIOUSLY SO PEAK AND GOOD AND HE GETS ENOUGH SCREENTIME I SWEAR IM IN LOVE WITH THE SHOW AND GU DAE-HONG

Look at how CUTEEE he is

It starts off a bit slow at first, but its SO WORTH IT. There's some kind of unreliable narrator n the show's playing mind games w the viewers as well 😭😭 The writing, cinematography, and the soundtrack r so GOATED

Back to RJW, he plays as Officer Gu Dae-hong who gets a fair amount of screentime

Dae-hong has such a calming and adorable aura literally the polar opposite of Nam-gyu lol he also has cute and bright outfits and Im honestly in LOVEE with this character probably one of my fav RJW roles.

Watched this at first cuz of RJW but the story was so good I got invested 🔥🔥

Gu Dae-hong nation assemble plz hes so sweet and kind <333

[fairyshuuu]

花吹雪 - Flower blizzard Pt1

.summary. the capital is a dangerous place. there’s only so much power that can be contained by the walls of the palace. people will find themselves falling, bending and breaking, and you’re dropped in the middle without any preparation. .word count.  6k .pairing. kyungsoo x reader .genre. royal au, historic Japan au (think royal kdrama)

.author's note. storytime lol. I’m studying Japanese in uni and in our history class we went over this briefly and I thought it was so interesting?! So I made a story around the actual history that took place at the end of the Heian period. And, I’m aware that the boys are not Japanese but I wanted to put them in there because I like writing about pretty boys, okay, dnt come for me .another author’s note. I only kept the emperor’s names because trying to keep up with the names would be a lot, but if you want to know more about the original history, you can read up about the Minamoto - Taira feud. Okay, let’s go.

Reeds sway in the wind. A late bird lands on a branch. It’s quiet. Not too much, about just the right amount of noise for his thoughts to sound clear, concise, accurate. They are not, of course, not as much as he’d hope for them to be when attempting something this risky. But they’re fully his own, of that much he is sure. It should be a given, for his thoughts to be his own, but here, for him, thoughts are more a interwoven web of other people’s wants and needs. These thoughts he’s having, are his own, and it’s something he’s grateful for.

Baekhyun puts down the cup of tea that have been clasped between his slim fingers, and sighs. Prince Mochihito, son of one of the last emperors, has given an order. This is not the reason he is in the Capital. It is, however, the reason he is in hiding. It’s this that makes Baekhyun the most anxious. The possibility of being discovered is ever present and he doesn’t like killing otherwise innocent people. He will, of course, if necessary. This game can’t be played if you drop the pieces next to the playing field. If you try to play that way, you’ll lose.

Baekhyun lowers himself into the wooden chair that stands in the middle of the room, and looks around. Prince Mochihito’s order. Calling the Min family to help restore the palace and stand up against the temporary reign of the Kim family. He taps his fingers on the table out of nervousness, unable to shake this feeling. They’ve been away for the capital for long, too long. Maybe he’s grown out of it. The constant fear or being screwed over by other people.

A part of him wanted to respond. Wanted to proudly wear his name out in public and ignore the blaring warning signs. He’s always been one for family tradition, and his family line runs especially strong. Min Baekhyun, only true son of Min Jaehyun and his first wife. The representative of the Min family, so to speak. Yes, he has his half-brothers, that much he does, but they are not him and they are not the oldest son of a banished family line who gets decisions pushed down his throat every few seconds.

Baekhyun stands from the chair again, and looks over the paper spread out over the table. The streets of the Capital, Heian-kyo, painted delicately into a web of cubes. His men are everywhere. That much is clear by the little soldier checkers littered across the map. They’re so close to touching the sun, yet so close to burning up in a blazing inferno. It’s a rush, one that Baekhyun isn’t used to but will soon feel addicting and…

His thoughts are interrupted by the sound of feet, and soft voices coming from outside. The noise moves closer, and Baekhyun’s hand automatically tightens around the handle of this sword. It stays quiet for a few seconds, and then a knock comes. A single knock, and then a voice.

“Baekhyun. It’s us.”

His mouth corner twitches, and his hand loosens it’s grip. He shakes his head when approaching the deep blue curtain that covers the entryway, and pulls it open gently. “You’d do yourself a favor being a little more specific next time, brother. I almost cut you in two.” His lips flatten in an instant when behind his two younger brothers, sits a familiar face, hands tied behind his back.

Kyungsoo sends him a curt nod, which Baekhyun reincorporates quickly before moving back inside. His belly twists suddenly. The uncomfortable, thick feeling he’d been having all day, was trying to tell him something. He should have known, should have seen this coming and yet he didn't. Maybe he didn’t want to. Maybe for once, he wanted to trust instead of second-guessing every single word. He doesn’t want to know, but when Kyungsoo and Sehun come inside he knows he’ll have to hear it anyway.

His two younger brothers enter the room in silence. They each have a strong grip on either side of Minseok’s arms, and make him kneel in the middle of the room. Baekhyun has to keep himself from cursing, screaming; because this room though relatively safe, isn’t soundproof and he can’t afford to blow his cover. When he finds the sharp eyes of the man on the ground, he suddenly notices how hurt he is. How cold his hands feel and how much his jaw is twitching angrily at the sight of his own family on his knees before him.

He notices the wetness in his eyes that takes a few seconds to blink away. He sighs, takes his sword from around his waist and tosses it on the table, knocking over multiple pieces. He doesn’t care. Kyungsoo and Sehun are back unharmed, and so he knows for a fact that they’ve won. Somehow it doesn’t feel like it yet. Baekhyun turns the chair towards the others and takes a seat in it, allowing himself to almost come at eye-level with the man he sent out just this morning. His nephew. His friend.

Kyungsoo lowers his eyes to look at his older brother for just a second. Baekhyun catches them long enough to recognize, to his slight surprise, pity. His eyes flit to the youngest of the three, and there too, he sees the same sentiment. It’s hardly surprising really, but Baekhyun sometimes forgets that he’s not as alone in this all as he feels. He might be the oldest, but he’s not the only one affected.

Finally, he licks his bottom lip, and speaks, voice soft but so strong, almost as if coming from another person entirely. “If you have any words, speak them now.”

Minseok, where his head hangs almost lazily, doesn’t respond. He looks almost bored with it, and this ticks him off. Maybe Minseok just assumes that he’s fine, but he’s never been on Baekhyun’s wrong side before. With a slight hand move, he gestures over to Sehun. The youngest takes Minseok by the hair and pulls his face back, as Baekhyun stands up. His face is completely cold now. The one thing good about disappointments is that you grow used to them. “Kyungsoo?” He turns to his brother.

“He took out the Kim’s at the northern gates with the men you gave him. From there he was able to get into the palace, disable the guards and walk into the throne room with about thirty men, as planned. We got in.” Kyungsoo lowers his eyes to the floor then, and his lips turn into a tight line. “Only, he didn’t capture the Emperor as planned. Neither did he capture the guards. He was planning to capture you instead. Sehun was returning just in time to stop him, and I came over as soon as I could.”

Baekhyun holds his hand up after that, and nods. “Leave us, please.”

“Baekhyun-” Sehun starts, but the gaze of his older brother silences him.

“His hands are bound behind his back, little brother. I’ll be fine.” His dark eyes find Sehun’s. “Now rush on out of here.” He wishes it didn’t sound so much like a command, but Sehun has always had a problem listening unless respect is demanded. Sehun looks over at Kyungsoo for a second too, before bowing his head and walking to the door. Kyungsoo follows in silence, only stopping by the curtain without looking back.

“You don’t have to feel obligated to do this, Baekhyun. It’s a weight we can all carry together.”

Baekhyun lets a sad smile grace his lips at that, though the other doesn’t see it. It doesn’t serve a use, and yet, it’s there. He is sad, there’s no use denying it. “And make you do it, little brother? We both know that’s not in you, with how you were raised.” Baekhyun slowly lets his hand glide along the handle of his blade, before picking it up. “Go now. Check on the palace for me.”

Kyungsoo sighs, before pulling back the curtain and disappearing out of the room without another sound. That leaves just two. He slowly slides out the sword from it’s leather holster, and holds it underneath Minseok’s chin. “Min Minseok, you’ve betrayed our family. You’re a disgrace and a dishonor.” His voice sounds so foreign. That’s all he can think when he rolls the words off his tongue. “You know the price a traitor pays. Now, tell me if you’d like to do the honor or if you want to make your forefathers shudder in disdain and make me do it. Decide and do it quick.” Baekhyun isn’t looking at him. He can’t, with the other’s eyes on him so harshly.

For the first time tonight, he hears Minseok’s voice. And for the first time in his life, he hears a tremble there. “Wait, Baekhyun, this is all a big misunderstanding. I’m your family. I wouldn’t do anything to hurt you. My blood runs through your veins and you want to kill me?” His voice only gets more and more pleading the longer Baekhyun waits, and he knows that if he waits long enough, Minseok might really get to his head. “I’m family, Baekhyun. You can’t kill your own blood, little nephew. How could you accuse your own family of being a traitor?”

His hand moves, pressing the blade to just pierce the skin under his jaw, and clenches his teeth. “Do not bring my loyalty into this.” His voice is but a low whisper, but the venom dripping from it is enough to make the other flinch. “I will protect this family line, if it is the last thing I do, and I will not hesitate to exterminate anyone who comes in my way. You’re a poison to your grandfathers, Minseok.” He pulls back the sword slightly, and takes a deep breath. “I’m guessing you will not go out with the last bit of honor you have left?”

Minseok doesn’t answer quick enough, and Baekhyun lifts the sword above his head. Minseok’s big eyes find his, dripping with loads of things, but as long as Baekhyun stares, he doesn’t find regret. Minseok just breathes sharply. “How can family betray you?”

“I’m Min Jaehyun’s only son. You’re the only son of his brother, Min Tae. How can family betray you? Your father betrayed every one of his brothers.” Baekhyun’s black eyes sink to the pendant around Minseok’s neck. “I’ve always thought you took too much after him than was good for you.”

The sword comes down without a sound.

Kyungsoo sinks down on one of the stone benches, next to his brother. Sehun’s breathing is shallow and his face a little pale, showing more of what’s going on inside than he probably wants to admit. Kyungsoo has never been great at showing both his troubles and his affection, but Sehun appreciates even the little gestures. He leans into his older brother a little, and laces his fingers together in his lap. Right when Kyungsoo opens his mouth to try and bring out any form of consolation, Sehun speaks up.

“I used to really enjoy summer, you know?” He mumbles, staring at his feet. “Summers with mom and dad near the river? Do you remember those? I must have been only 5 or 6 but I still vividly remember them. They were so nice and calm. We could run around barefoot and would never worry about anything but saving the little frogs cross the path. I remember one time where you tossed yourself in front of mom’s legs to protect the little frog she was about to step on.”

Kyungsoo smiles almost involuntarily. He really hurt his ribs doing that, but it was worth it. “I remember.”

“Why can’t we have those kinds of summers now? Does growing up really have to change so much? I’ve hated the last two summers. This one in particular. Those summers were so nice.” Sehun stays quiet for a few seconds after that, and Kyungsoo can tell he means these words from the bottom of his heart.

“Well, that was before everything that happened, Sehun.” Kyungsoo only answers, looking from the reed door that hasn’t moved since he walked out back to his younger brother. He doesn’t know what else he can say.

“I’m aware.” The younger laughs, though there’s no humor in his tone. His eyes look almost sad, though a smile plays at his lips. “Everything that went down is about the only thing I remember more clearly than those summers. I remember dad leaving in the morning, and not coming back. I remember mom crying like I’ve never seen her do before. I remember watching my two big brothers get led out the door by guards and being told that I wouldn’t see them again.”

Kyungsoo doesn’t move. He remembers it too. Very clearly. It’s hard to forget that he as an eight year old boy was pulled out of his house and separated from Baekhyun and Sehun when the Kim family came to power. That he was ridden out on a cart for days and placed far up in the mountains above the Capital so that he couldn’t bother anyone. Baekhyun had it even worse. He has driven out almost all the way to the North, without anyone to care for him. Kyungsoo doesn’t like to think about it all. “We’re together now.”

Sehun nods. “Sure.” Kyungsoo notes he looks visibly upset, something he’s not seen a lot on his brother’s face. Sehun’s always taken the role of the careless young brother, the one to break up the tension of usual life. But Kyungsoo is also aware that Sehun has a strong sense of family and loyalty. Seeing Minseok turn against him must have really torn at his heartstrings. “We’re together, for now. Until our own family decides to abandon us.”

Sehun stands up and looks around the empty street, before backing away. “Just tell Baekhyun to be safe. There might still be Kim allies in the city. And the Emperor escaped with the guards so we’ll soon have the rest of them on our backs too.” He looks like he’ll say nothing more, but turns at the corner, and lets out a deep sigh. “Goodnight, Kyungsoo.”

“Goodnight, Hun.” Kyungsoo watches the taller man dissolve into the night, before standing up too. He goes back over to the room, and knocks gently. Baekhyun will need help getting Minseok outside, whether or not he cares to admit it.

You almost drop your full baskets of plums when you hear the excited squeal from your right. Two arms wrap around your shoulders and shake your left and right before pulling you into a hug, all of this before you know what is happening. When the woman finally pulls back, your eyes widen about a tenfold. “Daeun?”

“It’s me!” The naturally light-haired girl giggles. Daeun was your childhood friend and neighbor for the longest time, before her father started to move around a lot. You give her a relieved smile and pull her back in for a proper hug after putting down the baskets. You haven’t seen the girl in what feels like forever, but she seems to have changed nothing in all those years.

You remember very well how even as a little girl, she used to have almost white hair, that with her pitch black eyes made her stand out so much. She got picked on a lot, but never once did she dislike that it made her different. Daeun was such a beautiful little girl, and you’re glad to note that none of it has changed. You give her another one over, and take her hands. “It must have been at least ten years. How are you? I thought I’d never see you again.”

“I thought so too. But I’m here to visit family before I-” Her face goes void for a second, as if she’s thinking too hard about something, and then she turns to you. “-oh dear, let’s catch up! I’ve missed you so much and… let me show you something.” You nod at her enthusiasm, and put your baskets to the side of the dirt road, hoping no one will take them. You still have a bit of time before you have to return to the farm house.

You and Daeun chat all the way to the village center, giggling and talking like you used to do. Strange how some people, no matter how long you’ve been missing them, still click with you in the same way as they used to. The girl drags you into a beautiful hut before you know it, and turns around. “Tadaa!” Daeun grins, as you look around. “This is where I’ve been spending all my time the last week.”

It’s a weaver’s house, beautiful colored fabrics in rolls and rolls stacked against the walls and on the floor. You don’t doubt that they are way less valuable than anything made in the city, but those colors… so pretty and vibrant. Poor workers like you could never afford to even as much as look at those. As Daeun drags you through the place, you pass an older looking man. “Good afternoon, Mister Pojo. This is my best friend. We’re just going to take a drink in the back, if that’s okay.”

The man grunts with a shake of his head, but continues stitching delicate patterns onto the dragonfly green fabric he’s holding. “You’re lucky I owe your father a lot, Daeun.”

“You’re the best, Mister Pojo!” Daeun giggles, and pulls you along even more. It might be annoying if she didn’t look so awfully over-excited. You’re plopped down onto a reet mat in the back room, while Daeun makes some, what you can only hope is tea. “How has it been here since I’ve left? The village looks so much bigger.” She walks over and hands you the peach colored drink, before sitting down next to you.

“Yeah, since the new Emperor, the village has grown a lot. We’ve been assigned a lot more land.” You nod, and take a small sip. Immediately your face pulls sour. “Ew, what is this?”

Daeun giggles. “It’s rose flavored rice wine.” She smooths out her dress gently, before giving you a little tilt of her head. “Y/N, don’t tell me you’re still picking rice. What about your dreams? I know it’s not easy but you’re a hard worker. If anyone can succeed in this society, it’s you!”

You pull up your shoulders. “I don’t know. Everyone else is a farmer here. I feel like it’s only natural I follow in their footsteps.” You put down the drink to the side, and smile at your friend. It’s not like you’ve given up on your dreams or anything. More that you have no idea how to get started. You’ve always lived in a small village, and since your grandfather passed away a few years ago, you lost focus.

Daeun pouts, and takes your drink, taking a big gulp of it. She stares at the floor for a few seconds, before sighing. She always needs a few moments to slow down her high paced personality when in deep thought. “Not everyone here is a farmer. I’m going to be a seamstress. I’ll make good money, and I’ll make my parents very proud. And-” She turns to you then, grabbing your hands again and shaking you in excitement.

“I just got the best idea. Come with me, Y/N.” Her eyes glint with determination. “Come with me to Heian. I don’t want to be alone and you have nothing to lose. You can only go up in the world if you give the world a shot. Please?”

Go to the Capital all alone, just the two of you? The idea is foreign. She’s right, you have nothing to lose. But the thought of leaving your hometown is a little scary. Still though, Daeun looks at you as if she’s really making this offer out of the pure bottom of her heart. Her excitement is admirable. Maybe that’s what makes you nod. You don’t have anything to lose, this is true. If you run out of money in a few days, you’ll just come back and start over again. You’re already at the bottom, how can you get any lower?

Daeun squeals in excitement, and wraps her arms around your neck. “Thank you, thank you, thank you! You’re not going to regret it! I promise.” You give her a little smile when she pulls back. Daeun has always been overly quick to jump, but she’s also always been right. Ever since you were kids, she’s made reckless decisions. But those decisions always lead to something better than you could have hoped for. You trust her. “Go get your stuff and meet me here tomorrow when the sun starts to rise. I have about six pieces of silver left, that’ll be enough to get us both into the city. I promise to take good care of us, Y/N.”

You get up and dust off your dress, walking to the door while shaking your head. “I don’t have much to pack up, Daeun. This is the only pair of shoes I own. And besides, if we’re doing this together, I’m paying for my own ride to the Capital.”

Daeun follows your lead, and grins. “We’re crazy, aren’t we?”

“A little crazy has never killed anyone.”

Dim light flickers on the deep red walls here, as Baekhyun takes off his belt. It’s damp too, and too warm for his taste. But it’s safe, and he can say what he needs to say without having to look over his shoulder every second. He drops the heavy bronze-decorated leather to the table, and runs his slim fingers through his hair. One person is laying with their naked back facing up on the table, another sitting next to him in a chair. Baekhyun sighs deeply, and waves a hand at the woman handling the black ink that is carefully pushed into the skin of the person below her. She gives a slight bow, cleans her hands and rushes out without another word. “I’m not done.” Sehun mumbles, his cheek pressed against the soft fabric on the table.

“Take a break, still.” Baekhyun urges, jaw set tight. He has more important things on his mind than a little bit of skin decoration. “I have some things to discuss.” He takes a seat on the free table next to Sehun, and glances between his two brothers. Kyungsoo nods, and gets up from his chair, moving into the back without a second glance. He soon returns though, with three cups of tea, and places them next to the oldest brother.

“Talk then, Baekhyun.” Kyungsoo nods, and folds his hands in his lap again.

“We need to figure out what to do now. Emperor Antoku has escaped, along with most of the Kim officials. Which means that they can come storming into the city any second now with more men than we have and just claim it back.”

“What about Prince Mochihito?” Sehun mumbles, sitting up at the serious tone of the conversation.

Baekhyun tuts his lips. “Prince Mochihito is dead. So are all other descendants of the original Emperor line.”

“But he had allies-“

“And they are sitting right in front of you, Sehun.” Baekhyun sighs, getting frustrated. This is an incredibly important deal, one Sehun doesn’t seem to grasp fully. If they are caught now, they’ll all be slaughtered. Every last one of them. Baekhyun looks at the ground when Sehun frowns at the interruption, and clears his throat. “We can’t trust the people to choose our side when it comes down to it. Prince Mochihito has allies as much as he has enemies. It will not be a peaceful takeover, Sehun, you must understand this by now. Minseok serves as a better example than any.”

Kyungsoo hums, and leans back in his chair a little, bit eyes flicking to the torches lighting the room. “Are you thinking about going public, Baekhyun?” His deep voice is steady, but Baekhyun has known his brother for long now and can tell the worry that sits laced in the spaces.

“I don’t think I have any other choice. If I don’t, the Kims will come and claim the throne again, more permanently. We can’t trust the Parks to deliver, that is what cost dad his life too.” Baekhyun nods. It’s not the plan he intended to use, but for all purposes it should work.

Sehun straightens his back. “I’ll go with you.”

“No.” Baekhyun stops him, putting a hand on the younger’s knee. “I want you both to stay undercover for now. As noblemen, perhaps.”

“Baekhyun, I also don’t think that’s a good idea.” Kyungsoo now speaks up more intently, staring at the oldest.

Still though, Baekhyun insists. His frown prominent on his face and jaw set stubbornly. “I need people who I can trust. I trust only you two, for now. We don’t know how many Kims are out there still. I need you guys to listen to me, and stay low. I need to know that someone in this devil city will have my back.”

Sehun sighs deeply, clearly bothered. But as he tightens his grip on the table, he nods. “Fine.”

Kyungsoo turns to his right, and sighs deeply. This is not his scene. The room is packed full of people mingling, most high ranking officials, Kyungsoo guesses. He tightens his grip on his cup, and tosses back the last of the milky colored liquid with a little cough. “Tell me again why I’m drinking?” He groans, glaring at his little brother in annoyance. Sehun can be such a brat.

“Well, because I handed it to you, I’m guessing. But you shouldn’t give me all the praise, Soo.” Sehun turns to the shorter man with a small grin, and cocks his head in the direction of the party. “Be glad you have something to take your mind off things. I know this isn’t your scene.”

“Neither should it be yours. You’re -“ He holds his words when a nobleman dressed in purple passes, his expensive fabric brushing past his hand. It’s soft, the silk spun gently. Though the art of the specialty is something Kyungsoo can appreciate, he couldn’t care less about the social message attached. “Why are we, of all people here, is what I’m asking?”

Sehun smiles again, a glint of tease in his eyes as if he knows something that Kyungsoo doesn’t, and he doesn’t doubt that could be the case. He’s a good kid, but mischievous just as much, if not more. The tallest runs a hand through his hair and looks around, before leaning a bit closer. “Do you know what kind of party this is, brother?” Kyungsoo lifts a brow. He doesn’t, and that tone doesn’t settle his nerves.

Sehun giggles, before grabbing his shoulders and turning him to face the blinds that line the wall. Light shines from behind them, showing the shadows cast by the people behind the soft white linen. They move slowly and purposefully, mingling in groups. “All those people are unmarried girls. These kinds of meetings are organised to find yourself a wife, dear brother. I thought you might enjoy it.”

Kyungsoo’s jaw drops open just a tat, unable to hold the true surprise the confession brings. He recovers quickly though, and smacks the younger in the chest so hard he almost drops his cup. “You’re evil.”

“And you don’t get out enough.” Sehun returns, a smug grin on his lips. Maybe he’s right, but Kyungsoo wouldn’t admit that for any silver in the world. “You’re still a virgin, aren’t you?” He then asks, giggling. Kyungsoo doesn’t respond for a second, but his thunder-like stare must say enough.

Without another word about it, he clears his throat, and gestures his head towards the blinds. “How can someone choose a bride without seeing her face first?” The entire thing has been explained to him twice now, but still it doesn’t make sense to him. “This is so stupid. I don’t care about the colors of her sleeves.” Kyungsoo frowns harshly, and resists the urge to roll his eyes.

Sehun groans dramatically, and folds over on the table. “And that’s where you show you’ve grown up in a monastery, brother. It’s not stupid, it’s seduction at it’s finest form.”

Kyungsoo grins at that. “Poetic.”

“You would know, oh enlightened one.” Sehun returns, before taking two cups from the man passing by, and winks at him. Sehun pauses for a long second before lets his head fall back, staring at the ceiling. “If you really don’t want to play by the rules, we could sneak past the blinds, I’m sure. Should I get you a sneak peek?” He stands tall to make his way over to the large man blocking the entrance, but Kyungsoo grabs his arm.

“Don’t do that, Sehun. We’re supposed to be keeping a low profile, not standing out more than we already do. Baekhyun will have your head if you screw this up for him.” Kyungsoo sighs, watching the frown return on his younger brother’s face. He doesn’t want to ruin the fun, but they just have rules to stick to, even if they don’t like it. That, or death.

You turn to Daeun and grab her hand, frowning a little. “Daeun, I’m hot.” She gives you a little smile, but is too busy peeking through the spaces between the blinds to really entertain you. She took some dresses that aren’t completely finished yet from work, and dragged you out to go. This place was, in her words, important for connections. Rich people would be coming, she had said, and that had been enough to get you to go. You weren’t naive. A female writer would need lots of connections to make it to the top here, in Heian. One thing does worry you though, looking at some of the other girls collected behind the linnen. You were surprised to get in, but Daeun explained she knows someone here. “Also, those girls keep looking at us.”

“That’s the goal.” Daeun turns to face you now, her attention caught. “Look at the colors of their robe and tell me what you see, Y/N.”

You do. The women, their lips reddened and skin pale, are all wearing a dark maroon. “Red.” You turn to your friend, who sighs and rolls her eyes.

“Yes, red, you silly goose. A dark red. The color of an unmarried woman.” She points between the two of you then. “Now look at us, will you?” You do, and scan your jinu-hitoe from top to bottom. The many layers poke out like a rainbow of color at your sleeves, but the top layer is not red like the other women. Yours is a pretty warm blue, Daeun’s a soft purple. “Your colors are called the blossoming flower. Mine an iris. They don’t know who we are, and our clothing stands out. They are feeling threatened.”

“That doesn’t sound like a good thing, Da.” You mumble, ignoring the eyes you can feel on your face.

Daeun waves it off though, and hands you a fan that matches your outfit. “Don’t worry so much! We’re going to enjoy our little night out, and then return the dresses perfectly fine to my boss like nothing ever happened. And none of the noblemen will even recognize you because they can’t see your face.”

“Fine. Only because I need connections. That’s the only reason I’m giving in right now, you hear.”

“That, and you love me.” She points out, before turning around and opening her fan in front of her face like the diva she is. “Now, go meet people, my dear. I’ll meet you here soon again. And remember, have fun.” She gives you a little tap on your nose, before disappearing past the group of women.

You just sigh, and walk closer to the blinds, peeking through. There’s lots of people out there, all men and you then realize that you feel pretty overwhelmed. Are you just supposed to have a conversation through the piece of linen? That doesn’t seem very effective, and yet, you can see one of the woman laugh as she talks through the barrier to someone. City relationships are weird, you decide. Who would marry a person who’s face they’ve never seen before?

You turn and move past some of the woman too, sighing as you find a door. It leads into a hall that is empty. You slip in slowly, and take a deep breath. If you weren’t allowed here, they wouldn’t leave it open. At least, you hope so. You slowly walk around the dimly lit hall for a second, and pass a pretty, black vase. You stare into it for a second, but it’s empty. When you turn though, your sleeve catches on the handle, and sends the vase clattering to the floor, as you yelp in shock. You quickly bend over, thanking the forefathers that it’s still intact, and reach for it. Of course, that’s easier said than done when you’re wearing seven layers of cloth.

Right at the moment that you stretch your fingers just enough to round the handle, another set of hands appears. They pick up the vase you knocked down clumsily, hands covering your fingers around the handle. You look up at the person who so kindly helped you. A man in a red piece of clothing stands in front of you, his eyes wide as he takes you in. You swallow, but are unsure of what to say, and just keep looking. His full lips are open ever so slightly, like he didn’t expect to see you here. That would make two then.

Eventually, the man straightens up, and mumbles something. “Sorry. I didn’t see you well in the light. I didn’t notice you were a ...” His hands are still around yours, warm and soft and he too, seems to realize this now. He quickly pulls back. “Uhm. Sorry.” You just bow your head at him and put the vase away, ignoring the nice smell that comes from him so close to you. He smells like flowers.

“Thank you.” You bring out, before opening your fan and hiding your red cheeks behind it. Since you don’t know what else to say, you just speed off, and back to where you came from. You don’t dare think of the fact that this man saw your face, and long enough to be able to pick you out in a group, if he should choose to do so. You just pray that he doesn’t tell on you.

When you get back to the barriers, multiple women are now talking to people on the other side. You ignore them to find Daeun, who is also talking. You grab her arm though, and jank her towards you. “I did something.”

“Good.” Your friend says, giving you a up and down to check your dress. “You weren’t gone for long. I hope you enjoyed it.” She giggles then, and you give her a slap to the arm.

“Not that kind of something, you perv. I need you to tell me what a bright red cover means.”

She pouts a little, but shakes her head. “Bright red on a woman indicated a married one. You shouldn’t worry too much about all the colors though because you won’t see those here anyway.”

“Okay,” you press, “but what does it mean? On a man.” You need to know what kind of damage you’ve just done, and how bad it is.

Daeun puts on her thinking face, and sighs. “Bright red means a single man from inside the palace walls at least. In combination with-”

“White.” You add.

“-with white? I don’t know.” She turns, looking at the linen as if that might hold the answer. “A family high up, probably. Why do you want to know something so specific though?” Her big, black eyes focus on yours in question.

“Because I just ran straight into a man with a red kariginu, Daeun. And he saw me.”

.thank you. for reading this first part of something I’m personally really passionate about. I love royal au’s (as you can tell by the dozen I have already) a whole lot, and Japanese history as well. So being able to write about both of them is so fun to me. If you have any thoughts or comments, as always I would love to read/answer them so don’t forget to let me know!

[yeonwoojin-is-my-bias]

Queen for Seven Days | Seven Day Queen | 7일의 왕비

Who Can I Trust Anymore??

[Spoilers through Ep. 12]

After finishing last week’s Episodes 11 & 12, I was left emotionally drained and speechless. I’m not exaggerating even slightly. At the end of Episode 12, I was like, “What did I just watch?”  It took me a couple days to even process everything. Well played, kdrama, well played.

One thing is for dead sure - I am DONE with the King! Not that I was on his side anyway, but from this point on he gets not ONE DROP of sympathy from me! I don’t care how emotionally wounded he was as a child, or how much he wants (’wants’, not ‘loves’ - there’s a difference) Chae Gyung, he is OUT!  HE KILLED SEO NOH’S FATHER!!  Are you joking me??!!  He didn’t even order someone to do it, like Kings often do. He tortured and killed this sweet old man with his own bare hands!  And he ENJOYED it! He relished it like a hunter making a kill. He had the blood lust. With pure evil in his eyes. He can brood and sulk and pine for love all he wants - he’ll get no sympathy from me. No forgiveness.

[EP 11]

Right at the start we’re off and running, with the King asking Chae Gyung to spy on Yeok for him. He offers her a dagger that she may need to use on Yeok if he turns out to be a traitor. They have no idea that Yeok is actually overhearing the entire thing because - see how cleverly hidden (not) Yeok is as he watches and listens? Somehow they manage not to notice him at all.

But Chae Gyung is all, “Yeah, keep it pal.”

Why? Because she believes Yeok is sincere and loyal and she’s going to prove it to the King. Yay Chae!

But . . .

She tells him that she will then accept the blade and take her own life. Not exactly what the King was expecting nor wanted to hear.

Hmm . . . maybe he took this a little too far? Not only does this leave him feeling rejected again as she reaffirms her love and devotion to Yeok, but he finds out that she’s prepared to die over it and he’s just provided her with the means. Yeah . . . that wasn’t how that was supposed to go at all. He’s so saddened that he looks like he’s about the cry. Gee, I wonder what he’s going to do with all that disappointment and jealousy?

Next day the King has a little surprise for the happy couple. A lavish new house! Wheee!  Full of spies -- err -- servants! They try to graciously refuse, but that’s not really an option. Yeok has a look around and . . . well what do you know . . .

SPIES!!

Behind every . . .

DOOR!!

Outside the front door, Yeok encounters a man who seems to be the sort of head spy. He asks his name and the man tells him he is Eunuch Song.

Yeok turns and for a brief instant, Eunuch Song looks up to meet his eye. Oh boy is that bad form! This guy is bad news. Was he trying to brazenly let Yeok know that he was watching him closely? He’s clearly not to be trusted.

And yet . . . and here’s the thing about this drama . . . I’m never 100% sure what to think. And I love that. Call me crazy but there’s a grain of me that thinks Eunuch Song might actually play a role in protecting Yeok. Don’t ask me why. A gut feeling. I have nothing else to go on. But there’s a grain of me that suspects he may not be what he appears on the surface.

That night Yeok reflects on his conversation with Chae Gyung earlier. The normal pre-wedding nerves are getting to both of them, on top of all these secrets and suspicions. He remembers what she said to him . . .

“In times like these, you should say I love you many times. You should embrace me and be nice to me.”

Whenever our Yeok is alone and not otherwise occupied with wedding plans or plotting to overthrow the government, he is thinking of Chae Gyung. This solidifies for me that he loves her very deeply. He wants to be honest with her, but he feels there is too much risk in this moment. He feels he can’t be sure of anything until his plan is achieved.

But, sweet Prince, if you wait too long, it may be too late. You may lose her faith and trust in you while you are being so very careful. This whole dynamic makes me so sad. I want them to be partners. Even partners in crime. I want her to be in on and part of his plan. But I understand why she can’t be. It’s heartbreaking and frustrating.

Still. I want him to tell her something. Some secret that will make her feel that they are partners. He doesn’t have to tell her his whole plan, but I wish he would tell her something like, “There’s a reason I can’t tell you everything now. I want to, and I will in time. Please trust me and stand beside me until then.” Something along those lines. Something to reassure her that’s he’s trying to protect her and to have faith.

Say something, dude!

I’m aching for romance!

Pssst....Chae Gyung...it’s me...

Yeok stops by to say goodnight and to offer her one last final, final, final option out of this marriage. Well, not really.

Oh Yeok you scamp. I know what you’re really here for. Chae Gyung is as smitten as any girl could be and immediately gives her answer in the most adorable, childlike way, much like she would have when they were young. She gives him a few fast, innocent pecks on the lips.

She is so amused and happy and in love with him. She’s cuter than cute and bursting with giggles. Ugh, I just adore her here, I can’t stand it. Instead of giggling with her, Yeok gazes back at her like this.

Damn he loves her. He loves her to his core. He loves her so much he can do nothing but take her in for a moment.

And then . . . he pulls her in closer and . . .

*Sigh*  Let’s just stay here like this all day. Let the world disappear.

But when you live in the palace, happiness doesn’t last long.

Morning comes and it’s wedding day! Yay! The King hasn’t slept at all so he ought to be in a very pleasant mood. He starts his day with a little chat with the Queen Dowager.

Uh boy. I used to like the Queen Dowager, but - like a lot of things - I’m not so sure anymore. I’m thinking she shouldn’t have said that. This only confirms to the king that she has indeed been plotting. Will he take her word for it that Yeok truly loves Chae Gyung and this is a marriage of love? Sure. Sure he will.

Yeok is on his way to the wedding with Seo Noh at his side. Taking a moment in his thoughts, guess who he’s thinking about?

See? Just as I thought. He’s keeping secrets for now to protect her. It’s really all he wants to do besides becoming King. But 5 seconds of happiness is all he is allowed.

Oh no . . .

Yeok recognizes what’s going on immediately.

How does he know?

At which point, Seo Noh is all, “What the . . . what??  Something you wanna tell me dude??”

What’s this? Yeok even hides things from Seo Noh? Apparently so. 

There’s no time to even have it out as it seems Yeok feels the need to head to the scene himself and deal with things. He can’t just send a message back that it’s a trap and they should get out of there. Nope. He bolts before entering the gates, leaving Chae Gyung to wait . . . and wait.

Upon arriving at the scene of said trap, who do we see but the King himself. One of his men says that he could just send word. But no, the King wants to be there himself. They draw arrows upon each other, and though they can’t see clearly, they know in their hearts each is aiming at his own brother.

This whole situation actually concerns me for Yeok’s future. Both men can’t seem to trust those under them - they are very ‘hands on.’ In order to be a good leader, you must trust your soldiers and officers to be able to carry things out on their own now and then and take orders. Both brothers seem to have a lot of trouble delegating duties. Such a compulsion can lead to a King’s undoing.

They engage in one of the most heart-stopping bow and arrow battles I’ve seen in a kdrama. Very real feeling. It’s short and everyone lives, the brothers scratching each other up a bit.

Crisis averted, Yeok races back to the wedding. Finally! It’s wedding time. Yay! Chae Gyung enters and after bowing, she sneaks a peek at her beloved. She is so happy and just captivating.

But there’s a problem. Her attention is caught by blood streaming onto Yeok’s hand. And eerily enough, RIGHT to her promise ring! Yeok was grazed by one of the King’s arrows, but of course she doesn’t know that.

Her beautiful smile turns to sadness and tears begin to stream from her eyes. She remembers the words of the King, warning her how she will soon start to doubt Yeok. What should be the happiest moment of her life is full of sadness, worry and suspicion.

You were hoping for a happy wedding? I sure was. But it’s nothing but sad faces. And then it’s over. I was pretty disappointed about that. I was looking forward to the grand ceremony. *sigh*

While Chae is visiting with the Queen Dowager and getting her physical, Yeok passes by.

More secrets. Ok groomie. It’s only your wedding day, but whatever.  Meanwhile, Seo Noh is finally reunited with his Dad. This really makes me cry tears of happiness. These two, sweet, honest fellows, bless them.

Back at the palace, heavy is the head that wears the crown.

She waits patiently for Yeok for the traditional removal of her crown and headdress, but she’s clearly getting fatigued. Nanny steps in awesomely and tells her it’s not a big deal if she takes it off instead of him. Then she adds . . .

Haha!   I freaking LOVE Nanny!  Soon the King shows up to check in. Chae notices the wound on his face.

He reminds her of her agreement to spy for him and sews more seeds of suspicion. He tells her about the curious events at the pawn shop and asks if she wants to know . . .

The day passes and eventually Yeok returns. It’s evening and he’s been much longer than expected. He makes an effort to charm his way in with flowers.

She is not impressed.

She then tells him that the king has dropped by with some healing herbs.

And she asks him . . .

He answers . . .

Yet he’s touching his arm right where he’s wounded. Chae Gyung is clearly very disappointed to hear this. She knows he is injured. She saw the blood. Why is he lying to her?  Again I’m yelling, “TELL HER!!!” She’s confused and hurt. She steps outside, thinks things over, then comes back with the most brilliant way of handling this situation.

Without a word she walks back in, sits down next to him, rolls up his sleeve and starts applying the herbs. She doesn’t say a word.

His guilt bothers him and he makes some feeble attempt at explaining it as a wound from back when they were being pursued.

She’s no dummy. She knows a fresh wound when she sees one. But she says nothing about it and treats him. She explains that she will trust whatever he says. This is not so much in adoration but with a mood of resignation. This is who she is an she can’t change it. It’s like she’s cursed to have to believe him. She tells him that she’d rather he not come home injured.

This touches him deeply.

He gazes at her for a moment then leans in for a kiss.

But they are interrupted by Nanny who has dinner for them. Another sweet moment spoiled!

Outside, Eunuch Song is sneaking around. Nanny gives him the bum’s rush.

Haha!  This woman is GOLD!

Meanwhile, the King’s henchmen have found Seo Noh’s father and the King is in full crazy mode. He tortures this sweet old man with the burning hot iron.

Dad resists but the King continues to freak out. He needs to know why his father left a document that would remove him from the throne. But it feels more like a betrayal. Basically, why didn’t his father love him, is what he wants to know.

Seo Noh’s father finally yields due to the torture and tells him that it was a decision made as a king, not as a father. He also tells him that the Secret Order is tattooed on a woman’s body. The King is satisfied with this and rewards Seo Noh’s father by driving a sword right through his heart. Not only does he have no hesitation about it, he actually enjoys it.

Look at that!  You evil King!  I can’t wait for you to lose your throne! But through his final breaths . . .

Oooo zing!

Poor Seo Noh’s dad. 
He doesn’t deserve this at all.

Back at the palace, Nanny tries to get the juicy details from the wedding night, but all she gets is a big letdown.

So she sets about teaching Chae Gyung how to seduce her man.


Ooo Nanny knows a lot!  I love her. Chae catches on. She asks her for all their best liquor.


LOL!  Nanny you are the best.  But Chae has other ideas.

Get the boys drunk and learn their secrets!  Whee! Party time!  It’s not long before the boys are drunk. She pretends to drink along and pretends to pass out, too. Her play-acting is so good that Yeok thinks she really has passed out and sneaks out of the pawn shop. While he’s gone and the boys are sleeping it off, she pokes around. It’s not long before she stops and realizes what she’s doing and regrets her actions.


She stops immediately and runs to the door to leave. But when she opens it . . .

Yeok is standing there and he heard her. Is he upset? Is he disappointed in her snooping?


Just the opposite. He is touched by her trust and pulls her in for a sweet, loving hug. She breaks into tears and says about the smartest thing that either of them has said up until now.


I’m with you Chae Gyung! Let’s run away with Yeok and leave all this craziness behind. She just wants to love him and make a life with him. Choking back his tears, he whispers his full agreement. 


Oh Yeok, we love you so much. 



He is so touched by her, and in his heart would love to run away with her. But it’s just a dream. He has a duty to his people. But for now, their thoughts drift off to a sweet place where they are free.

That night Chae comes to his room and says she will stay with him no matter what the Queen Dowager says about how they can only be together on certain nights for optimal baby making. She wants to be with her man! Again he is very moved by her. I so love the effect she has on him. Ahh look at them. This is such a lovely moment.


She is so beautiful. But all at once there is a commotion at the door.


*sigh* Her gorgeous face. Why must everyone and everything keep disturbing them? She barely got a chance to hear his heartbeat, if at all. Stupid world. Go away. Someone is calling Yeok. They step outside together.


OMG!  Noooo!  Yeok is shocked and heartbroken, but keeps their conversation a safe distance from Chae.


And then . . .


AGAIN??? He runs off into the night without her. I am yelling at him once again, “TELL HER!!!”  Seo Noh is her friend. She should know about this. This really bothers me that he doesn’t include her this time. I understand his reasons, but geez. Now in order to protect his secrets, she can’t be there for Seo Noh when she would certainly want to be. This is really too much. I’m pretty pissed at him now. And sad. 


During the night the friends bury Seo Noh’s father. Seo Noh is overcome with grief. So am I. This is horrible. And Chae Gyung should be there. She would want to comfort him and support him, and he would want her there, too. This is heartbreaking on so many levels. 


Poor Seo Noh. His father finally comes back after 5 years and he only gets to see him for a few minutes before he’s dead. This is so wrong. I can’t stand it.

It’s morning now and Yeok never came home. Chae Gyung waited up all night for him. Now she is worried and sets out to find him. When she gets to the pawn shop she sees a lot of blood on the stairs.

OMG! What has happened? She is now stricken with worry. Where is he? She breaks off the lock and goes inside. More blood! On the floor and on the door! What else can she think but that he’s been injured? Where is he? Is he alive?? 
 She goes through the door and finds their secret planning room. It’s filled with curiosities, but all she wants is to find her Yeok.


But she finds something else instead.


It’s the entire royal hierarchy! What the heck is going on? Some people, including her father, are noted as important. What is this? He’s planning something, but what? Was the King right? Is he a traitor? She is beyond horrified and can’t even process what she’s looking at . . .


And right here is where they leave us. Exhausted and an emotional mess on the floor. OMG what a cruel cliffhanger! 


What will happen now? Will Yeok come back and find her in there and flip out, thinking that she was poking around and didn’t trust him? Even though she was only motivated by love and wanted to find out what happened to him. Will she no longer trust him and work more diligently for the King as his spy? Can she ever trust him now, knowing he is planning something and didn’t tell her? I’m completely racked with questions, curiosity, disappointments, confusion, heartache and anger. I am left with my original question:

Who can I trust?

I don’t trust Yeok. And I must say, this is a new one. When have you ever had a hero that you can’t trust? I can’t even trust my sweet Chae Gyungie. I definitely don’t trust the King - but then I never did. Can’t trust the Queen Dowager. I’m not sure how I feel about Chae Gyung’s father. When push comes to shove, will he side with the king or his daughter and the Prince?

Nope. Can’t trust any of y’all. 


You know who I trust??

Nanny and Seo Noh! That’s it. They are pure and honest. Their motivations are clear and simple. The rest of you all are tearing my heart into tiny pieces. 


[kimseo-wan]

Yes, I voted Gu Dae-hong in my own poll, no, I will not elaborate. Hes just so wholesome n underrated 😭

Can't believe no one has made fanart of him yet !!

Dae-hong my beloved