The first time I watched this series it was such an emotional rollercoaster. Having watched it a second time, I am able to have a more detached perspective.

The acting delivered here, particularly by the protagonists, was trully impressive to me. It was the reason I continued watching the drama in the first place, despite its emotionally draining tone. The story has some lighthearted moments, but overall it is a sad and tragic account of choices and their consequences and how destiny repeats itself.

XF is a sheltered princess used and sacrificed by two men she trust and loved, all in the struggle for power. Could they have done things differently? Maybe, maybe not. Both men had heavy burdens influencing their choices and thus decided that the end justified the means.

Even after what was supposed to be a fresh start, XF's journey is filled with heartbreak. She cannot escape the karmic relationship with LCY and falls once more in love with him, while LCY hurts and uses her as a pawn in his quest for ultimate power. LCY is also in love with her, yet his love is very selfish and all consuming.

I do not like tragic endings, but here I found it very fitting for the story and the characters' journey. XF was finally able to find peace and LCY was forced to live a long life without her.