It's been about a day and a half since I finished this drama, and I feel like it's going to take me a bit to get over. I'd had spoilers for how things were going to end, but I'm actually grateful for that because even though I was prepared for heartbreak, it still punched me in the gut. It takes a lot for a movie/show to make me cry — I hardly ever do — but the last episode broke me with the culmination of the absolute tragedy that all of the characters experienced.

I admit I started this show for Lee Joon Gi after watching / becoming obsessed with Flower of Evil, and he absolutely did not disappoint. But all of the other characters grew on me as I watched, too, and I was heartbroken for all of them and how the pursuit of the throne ruined everything for everyone. So many of the brothers wanted its power, but even being king doesn't let you just be able to do what you want. I could write more but I'm having trouble putting it all into words. I just have a lot of feelings :sob:

Not to say this series is without issues. I could have done without the time jumps for sure, and would have liked slower pacing in general in the second half. Some of the music didn't really seem fitting (but some of it I really enjoyed). And leaving off without showing Ha Jin and So meeting in the present day is just cruel (I've seen the pictures of the deleted handkerchief scene).

All in all, though, I thought this was well worth the watch. I literally couldn't put it down, much to the detriment of my sleep schedule. Not sure if I'll have the emotional fortitude to rewatch it or watch the Chinese version, though.