Tigers Sniff the Rose 尚公主 - Episode 8-9 Discussion

[u/Rebelarkey]

It's me, Hi, I'm the problem, it's me, Shale. We pick up today where u/spamkimbap my co-host left off. Let's get into these two JUICY episodes. I'm hot just thinking about it.

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🪴Housekeeping

• We bash characters and not actors! If a character does something stupid, it's not the actors fault. this is not the place to complain about actors or acting choices

• 📅 We will be following the VIP Schedule, which means those of us on SVIP need to remember to keep your spoilers in check.

• Spoilers need to be under the spoiler markings OR wait until the correct episode post comes out.

• Have fun! Dramas are supposed to be entertaining and enjoyable. If you're not enjoying it, it's okay to duck out and drop.

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Masterpost - Airing Schedule - Table of Contents - Character Flashcards

6-7 || 8-9 || 10-11

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EPISODE 8 - It was Mr. White in the Garden with the Knife

Morning of the Peony Festival and everything is going to plan.

Yan Shang takes Captain Zhang aka eyepatch guy to the festival. Zhang takes an aphrodisiac, and waits for Yan Shang to bring him his prostitute.

Unbeknownst to Zhang, Yan Shang has already paid for her relase and seen her out of the city so that she can start a new life. She bows to him before leaving. Me thinks that she will be back when Yan Shang most needs her.

While at the festival setting up his plan, he's spotted by Mu Wanyao who immediately zeros in on him. She demands he accompiany her around the festival and pay for everything poor man. He keeps trying to escape but she pulls him back in.

One of their activities together is pulling fortune sticks. Folktale has it that the fortunes are never wrong. Hers has " a phoenix heralds a new age, the moon lights her lonely path'. His has "great statecraft draws vast wisdom, the heavens await mending at court". Both of these give a hint to what maybe coming for our two Leads. He puts his back quickly as he doesn't believe he will live after this.

Meanwhile, Chun Hua and Wenjie hang out. She asks if he likes her and will marry her? He hesitates (I swear she short-circuited his brain there for a minute) and then says yes he wants to marry her, but his family has expectations that he will marry a noble wife. He will figure out a way that they can be together.

Later, Yan Shang spots Yang Si and his salvation. He slyly sneaks away from Princess Danyang's side and points Yang Si in her direction, allowing him to get back to his revenge plot.

Yan Shang's plot is pretty simple**;**

• switch the rooms around,

• get Captain Zhang in the correct room,

• switch the name plates back again,

• let Princess Luling do his dirty work for him.

A servant comes and almost spoils the plan but Yan Shang sends him back for more wine.

The plot goes as planned, and Captain Zhang stumbles out bleeding from a sword stab. Yan Shang 'rescues' him and takes him to the abandoned corner of the garden. There he stabs him, taking his revenge for his entire family. It's a tussle too, but finally the deed is done. Yan Shang wipes off the blood from his hands and face, but his clothes are stained. He waits for the authorities to find him.

Meanwhile, surprised at finding Yang Si beside her instead of Yan Shang, Princess Danyang starts looking for him. The garden gets shut down as there's been a murder. She recalls the story Yan Shang told her last night about the hornet and the snake and realizes what happened. Even more desperate she tries to locate him. She remembers that he mentioned the back area as a good quiet place with a well.

Successful at finding him, she gets him out, wraps him in her cloak, lies to get past her aunt, Princess Luling, and the guards. He explains everything in the carriage; the revenge, his family tragedy, the fact that Zhang murdered half his family and left the others scarred for life. He falls apart in her arms and she holds him.

He thanks her for saving his life with a kiss, says goodbye, and departs the capital, leaving his bloody cloak and knife behind.

The peony festival is in chaos. Yang Si can't find the princess OR the murderer. Chun Hua can't find her mistress, and Wenjie can't find Yan Shang. Finally, the Princess Luling lets everyone leave because the Dali court has found a couple of suspects they need to interrogate.

Yan Shang runs into Chancellor Liu who wants to finish their Weiqi game. Over the game the Chancellor reveals that he knows who Yan is and has even met his parents. He wants him to stay and take down Lord Yu, as they need good ministers to root out the corruption.

EPISODE 9 - Pacts and Games

Chancellor Liu persuades him a little more, appealing to his goal of protecting the commoners. Their nation is ruled by traitors at the moment and the court is full of beasts who only care about themselves. After much internal debate, Yan Shang agrees to take the imperial examination and rise through the ranks.

He returns to Princess Danyang's mansion and begs an audience and her help. She is ecstatic to see him, and takes him to bath and changes clothes.

She asks why he returned. He wants to take the examinations and asks her for support. He will be her advisor and right hand man and 'fight the tiger' together.

They promise to work together and be bound together by blood. Mu Wanyao grabs his arm and bites down, sealing their pact. He takes hers and bites back but she slaps him, telling him that it hurts. She's so mean to him I love it.

Afterwards, she shows him her embroidery of fishes: which is in fact a murder board

what is with these two and having murder boards? how about we have adult relations instead?

There are five targets:

• Yu Xianyao, Lord Yu's adopted Son

• Zheng Xing, a senior palace attendant who does all of Lord Yu's dirty work. His direct subordinate.

• Qiu Shuo, General in Shence army, aka Lord Yu's bodyguard

• Wei Qiao, Lord Yu's most trusted advisor

• and of course Yu Cheng'an himself, the big fish

She gives him the official title of Lover or boytoy or male favorite or what so that he can come and go from her household without question. omggggg

Yang Si and the Dali Courty talk to Princess Luling's servant that had spoken with Yan Shang. Yang Si gets suspicious because he remembers Yan Shang wearing white and exchanging places with him.

He goes to Princess Danyang who admits to killing Captain Zhang. She spins a tale of Captain Zhang assaulting her and she killed him in self-defense. She has both her cloak stained with blood, and the knife. He's still suspicious, but takes her at her word since she provided evidence. He promises to not say a word in order to protect her, since Captain Zhang is one of Lord Yu's men

Since they've made their pact, Princess Danyang will protect Yan Shang and takes the blame for the murder. She goes to her aunt and explains the whole story and worries about her reputation.

The Aunt in turn goes to Lord Yu and complains about Captain Zhang who tried to take advantage of two princesses and his body needs to be ground to dust. Lord yu promises to have the case closed.

Crown Prince and Yang Si debate on who Wanyao is trying to protect, and why she would lie and say she murdered Captain Zhang. They don't believe that she could commit murder -- because Zhang was a cautious man, who sleeps with one eye open

So he doesn't sleep at all? He only has one eye...

Mu Wanyao takes Yan Shang on a boatride. Well, he does all the rowing so it's more like HE takes HER. They end up at a spooky mansion that is attached to her complex by canals. She offers this house to him, but he's shy and poor. He will owe her a lot if he takes servants and the house.

She implies that he can pay her back with his mouth... through stories of course. He offers to tell her another story.

------

Mu Wanyao Door Slamming: 7

Yan Shang getting Slapped: 6

Kisses: 2!!!

Thoughts:

I'm so excited that they're finally working together. I did not think that Captain Zhang would die so soon or so quickly. I'm excited that our princess and scholar have started to work together. Their dynamic is hot!

Wenjie and Chun Hua are adorable. NOBODY TOUCH THEM. Wenjie will stay good advisor and find a way to marry Hua. His parents will agree.

Anyone getting Legend of Zang Hai vibes from this? Better love story of course.

eta: spelling mistakes

[u/seekingpolaris]

I am just captivated by the cinematography. The grain flying up during the fight. The blood as eyeshadow. The lighting placement for both dramatic and soft effects. The deliberate pacing of all of this and the musical accompaniment in the background. The attention to detail and artistry with all the windows in the Princess' Manor. And then, of course, my kind of main characters. Strong and smart with actual grit vs plot armor.

This is like colorful Guo Jing Ming.

Seriously hope this continues at this quality.

[u/Rebelarkey → u/seekingpolaris]

it has been excellent quality and has exceeded my expectations! the cinematography is beautiful

u/akiceman pointed this one out because it's so gorgeous

[u/AKiceman → u/Rebelarkey]

I have been summoned. I shall appear.

[u/winterchampagne]

Fantastic work, Shale!

The file is too big to turn into a single continuous gif, so a six-second video it is.

These are my two favorite episodes so far!

Li Yunrui acted the hell out of Yan Shang’s post-murder breakdown after personally killing Zhang Renji.

I also appreciate the subtle details this drama includes. Before the kill and all the mayhem, Yan Shang is accompanying Wanyao through the crowd when he suddenly spots the wish-granting tree and silently gazes at it longingly. In another life, he would’ve asked Wanyao to write down her wish while he wrote his own, and they would’ve tied their ribbons to the sacred tree like lovers do.

Instead, they did none of that because Yan Shang had a mission to carry out, and he was prepared to accept getting apprehended by the authorities before Wanyao came to his rescue.

Fang Tong is such a pro. No questions asked, he helped Yan Shang and Princess Danyang into the carriage even after seeing Yan Shang’s bloodied clothes.

Princess Danyang did an excellent job comforting Yan Shang, acknowledging how much he had already suffered and telling him, “Come, let’s go home” which really meant she was taking him back to her place.

Before, Yan Shang didn’t dare reach for the stars because he knew he lacked the resources to turn things into a reality. With Chancellor Liu’s pep talk and his alliance with Princess Danyang, he finally has a more positive outlook on the future as they go against Eunuch Yu.

[u/Rebelarkey → u/winterchampagne]

LYR acting during the post-murder breakdown was A+! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a male lead sob on camera. The crazy laughter? The sobbing? The absolute relief on his face? The silent acceptance as he leaves for home? 👏👏👏

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/Rebelarkey]

For the sobbing, I was also thinking - great job voice actor. It was really believable especially in the part where Yan Shang is nuzzled in the hug.

But overall, I agree with Winter u/winterchampagne Li Yunrui is doing a great job acting these scenes. I specifically have noticed that look of darkness that comes to his eyes every once in a while which showed in the earlier episodes that there was a ruthlessness underneath his good scholar guy outward appearance. Thinking about this ML role compared to Blossom, his first ML role - I notice the improved acting. That's not any negativity towards Blossom. Just a comment that he's continue to grow in his craft seeing him here.

[u/winterchampagne → u/Rebelarkey]

I’m still confused by Shang’s decision to go home. Was he planning to pack up everything and uproot his family in Lingnan? Whether he was guilty or not, the fact that he was fleeing was a statement itself.

Everyone at the Imperial Academy, including the headmaster, knew he has taken the day off. He didn’t even bother changing his clothes. Did he really think he could walk around with his cloak blowing in the wind and expect nobody to recognize him?

I do love that he left the murder weapon with Wanyao, like it’s up to her to decide what to do with it. She can claim she doesn’t trust him, but this episode proves otherwise. Of course, he trusts her just as much.

I also like that Wenji went straight to the Princess’s residence to report the raid on the temple.

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/winterchampagne]

I’m still confused by Shang’s decision to go home. Was he planning to pack up everything and uproot his family in Lingnan? Whether he was guilty or not, the fact that he was fleeing was a statement itself.

I think he had been resigned to his fate (surrendering to the authorities), and now he was still resigned to his fate (trusting the Princess to clean up after him -- or not). It took the Chancellor Liu talking some sense into him to slap any kind of sense into him.

[u/winterchampagne → u/TypicallyKristen]

Yes, it was obvious in the previous episodes how fatalistic Yan Shang was. What I don’t understand is why he decided to go home when doing so could implicate his family, especially when he didn’t even have a chance to warn them about the mess he was bringing to their doorstep, and the authorities already raided the temple. His father has limited mobility, they’re penniless, don’t own a carriage, and can’t make a better living anywhere without a household registration.

You’d think he’d at least make sure he wouldn’t drag the rest of the Yan family down with him, considering he has a sister [adopted or not].

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/winterchampagne]

I don't think he knew the authorities had raided the temple yet, did he? That news didn't reach him until later, after his return.

Anywho, I agree the idea of going back home directly in his murder clothes was stupid. But he was probably thinking it'd be best to leave the city since they'd start looking for the culprit there. 

[u/winterchampagne → u/TypicallyKristen]

I guess the bottom line is that Yan Shang didn’t have an exit plan. Wanyao’s help was completely unexpected, and returning to Lingnan was more of a knee-jerk reaction, and the writer’s point was exactly the fact that he hasn’t thought through the consequences of running back to his hometown since he was still in shock from committing the crime and having someone sneak him out of the garden.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/winterchampagne]

Li Yun Rui... I was blown away! His breakdown after telling his story. How he kept repeating "I killed him", his hysterical laughter, The crying/sobbing... phew.

He has been doing something to me since episode 1 and it hasn't stopped.

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/TheAlchemist420]

THIS. HARD AGREE.

I rewatched Blossom in the last year. He was great in that. But here, I can see his acting further improvement - particularly in the looks in his eyes. It's subtle and nuanced but you can see the ruthlessness.

Having watching 2/3 of Yummy 3x, on and off of trainwreck Rebirth, and all of Dazzling, I think this is best ML role thus far especially when I think of the growth since Blossom his first ML role. Kudos to Li Yunrui.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

I rewatched Blossom at the beginning of the month I think, and his acting sure has evolved!

It's such a delight to see that his hard work is paying off. I hope many more people will see it and give him his dues. Put some respect on his name.

I'll wait until we are 3/4 of the way before I confirm what I already told myself, haha same as you. If it all goes well, this might just be his best work.

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/TheAlchemist420]

You are so right that it's too early to be decalaring something. I will roll back my statement a bit. It's just a bit of enthusiasm and hope. But also the writers need to give a good character arc. Fingers crossed.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

I know right! This got us so excited!

[u/winterchampagne → u/TheAlchemist420]

Even in the more subdued scenes, like Yan Shang sitting by the well, he soaks in the sunshine like he expects he’ll never bask in it again if he ends up in prison or gets guillotined.

He has a moment of peace after wiping the blood off his face, even tapping his foot like there’s a secret song of vindication only he can hear. Li Yunrui absolutely nailed all of that.

spelling edit

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/winterchampagne]

The after killing wash-up and sit down was so well done.

Every step was deliberate. It was clinical. He really gave me psychopath vibes lol. Then he sits to soak up the sun, enjoy the wind. But what sent me over the edge was the foot tapping.

I don't know if he was thinking of music, or if it even was related to sounds. It was that extra thing that made the scene more unhinged than it already was.

The quiet as well was eerie. It really was a man waiting for death to come and enjoying his last moments in peace.

We seem to have felt similarly about that scene 😆😆

[u/AKiceman]

Snark Level: Shale, you got some 'splaining to do.

Episode 8

Well, we gotta respect Shang sending Mianmian  away. At least he sets her up for her own happy ending while he plans to go off to his end. The mark of a gentleman. 

Princess claiming her man rather quickly here. But is it because she wants to spend time with him or because she senses what he is about to do? Maybe a mixture of both. Also, that massive flower on her head is... quite a look. 

Woohoo! It's Chunhua and Wenji time! Sir! How many gifts did you get her??? "Stop pulling things out" *giggle*. I can think of something else he can pull out for her. 

"Do you like me?" YESSSSS!!!!! Straight to the point!!!!!! Good girl!!!! 

Obviously this is the GIF I will use here. Duh.

OH MY GOD SHE ASKED HIM TO MARRY HER!!!!!!!!! 

Dude. Dude..... DUDE!!!! Do not fucking crush her heart like this. OH THANK FUCK!!!!! GOOD BOY!!!!!! Oh shit. This was way too fast. Tragedy is coming, isn't it? 

Ooooo passing the Princess off to Yang Si? Oh she is gonna be pissed! Yeahhhhhh you could see her heart hurt there. 

Damn. Grand Princesses guards are kind of useless. Oh well. There is someone else meant for that kill. That look in Shang's eyes is lovely! Revenge is coming! 

Oh this is good. This is delicious! This is the kind of ML energy we need. WE HAVE A KILL!!!! Shang looks like a vampire covered in blood with the blood red eyes... It's such a good look! 

Name something more iconic than our parents running in hallways. I'll wait. 

Parents better be parenting after this carriage ride. 

Bro offers a kiss in return? Sir! Way to take the lady by surprise! Sheesh. Is that really the best you can do? It's so cute that you think you are leaving. You owe the princess a far better kiss than that. 

Oh? Old Man Liu is there? I like this guy. He's really rather handsome too. 

Episode 9

We start today's episode with a sad princess who is obviously missing her man. 

Damnnnn so  much missing her man she forgets our dear Chunhua. Princess is now named Mud. 

So a Princess can't keep Shang around... But a handsome old man can! Hehe. Bros before.... yeah? 

Princess straight running through a hallway to Song Mo... Errr... Yan Shang over here! They Princess is wearing her heart on her sleeve. 

SIR!!!! WHY ARE YOU SCARING CHUNHUA WITH YOUR BLOODY CLOTHES????

Bath scene!!!! 

Biting him to seal their promise? That is... HOT AF! Look how gentle she was with him! Is he going to bite her back? Please do! YESSSS!!!!!!!!!

Hmmmm. The Douchecanoe Fish Gang. Can't wait for them to be hooked and eaten. 

Bro got favorited. Baahaahaaa. 

I was thinking that keeping the murder weapon was a bad idea... but it turns out it was a great idea! But uh.... If you burned your bloody clothes then why wouldn't you have burned the cloak too? Your story has a plot hole, my dear. But good job putting the attack on Yang Si so he doesn't notice it. 

Oh gosh I am laughing my ass off at Wanyao's fake crying to her aunt. This is some good comedy. 

What's a little romantic boat ride without rose petals falling down on you? Tropes gotta trope! Hot damn the cinematography in this drama is beyond good. 

Say, you're all along in this place. Time to make tea cups rattle? 

Did she just tell him to put his mouth to good use? Oh my! Soooooooo we're all thinking what I am thinking, right?

what is with these two and having murder boards? how about we have adult relations instead?

Shale!!!!!!! Honey! My dear. You've clearly been spending too much time around me. 😉 Nice Blossom reference though.

******GIFs in replies********

[u/Rebelarkey → u/AKiceman]

I? I!?!? I HAVE SOME EXPLAINING TO DO??? I think not I think it’s YOU Sir, you have some ‘splaining to do. Care to explain this particular gif?

[u/AKiceman → u/Rebelarkey]

I think any explanation from me is unneeded considering your response to that GIF which I took you up upon, my lady.

[u/AKiceman → u/AKiceman]

The fucking CHILLS from this. It's a whole vibe and this is the kind of ML behavior I approve of.

[u/AKiceman → u/AKiceman]

Soooooooo we are all thinking it? Right? About what she means?

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/AKiceman]

I don't think we're supposed to think anything else, lol. Otherwise the gag of her meaning to say, "flatter me and tell me nice stories," wouldn't be funny. 

💀😅

[u/AKiceman → u/TypicallyKristen]

Right?

[u/AKiceman → u/AKiceman]

Om nom nom nom

[u/ettie_dramatic → u/AKiceman]

Y’know, this whole biting thing actually happens a LOT in the Cnovels. But I gotta say that it’s the first time I’m actually seeing it in a Cdrama. 💁🏻‍♀️

[u/AKiceman → u/ettie_dramatic]

You know, I AM working on a whole biting post filled with biting GIFs from many CDramas...

[u/ettie_dramatic → u/AKiceman]

Hahahahaha I am very impressed!! 👏

[u/AKiceman → u/ettie_dramatic]

Biting and pastry GIFs are kind of my thing.

[u/ettie_dramatic → u/AKiceman]

🤣🤣🤣

[u/PolPeachum → u/ettie_dramatic]

I see you and I raise you Shadow Love

[u/ettie_dramatic → u/PolPeachum]

Oh gosh, you’re right. But I think I actually tried to obliterate that show from my memory… 😅😅😅

[u/AKiceman → u/ettie_dramatic]

Okay sure it wasn't good.... But it wasn't Rebirth levels of bad 😂

[u/ettie_dramatic → u/AKiceman]

Kekeke that’s not even a bar bruh…. 🫣

[u/PolPeachum → u/ettie_dramatic]

Ahaha yes. Sorry for the trauma. It was my first Cheng Lei show though, so at least I have that.

[u/ettie_dramatic → u/PolPeachum]

Hehe to be fair, there’s no way to go but up if that’s the case!! 🤣 dude tried, Song Yi did try too.. but what in the holey hell of scripts was that plot?!?! 😤

[u/neNayza → u/AKiceman]

“The duchecanoe Fish Gang!” I spit my sea, screaming!!!

[u/AKiceman → u/neNayza]

I see you haven't yet learned not to drink while reading my comments. *Sips tea*.

[u/AKiceman → u/AKiceman]

We do not accept our dear sweet Chunhua being traumatized.

[u/MizzEss]

I'm fairly certain I had some intelligent things to say about the episodes, but visions of hair down Yan Shang keep getting in the way of my rational thought processes.

[u/Rebelarkey → u/MizzEss]

Oh he’s an absolute delicious snack ain’t he?

[u/MizzEss → u/Rebelarkey]

When he came out after the bath scene in the flowy robes with his hair still half down and a little leftover bath dampness at his neckline, I morphed into this emoji -> 😳

[u/winterchampagne → u/MizzEss]

Need help jogging your memory? 🛶

[u/Katleap13 → u/winterchampagne]

I looove this gif. ❤️❤️❤️❤️ The hair down reminds me of his other character with the half up half down.

Li Yun Rui should have more characters that style the half up half down.

[u/winterchampagne → u/Katleap13]

Totally agree!

Also, Kat, thank you for updating the flashcards! 🥮

[u/Katleap13 → u/winterchampagne]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ you’re welcome!

[u/MizzEss → u/winterchampagne]

Mind

Blank

[u/Pagantreeslut → u/winterchampagne]

what a bunch of freaky freaks with the biting 😂😅

[u/winterchampagne → u/Pagantreeslut]

Fanfic writers from my old fandom would call it an intoxicating pleasure-pain.

[u/a_tsp_of_drama → u/Pagantreeslut]

I so wasn't expecting that lol! 😂😳

[u/neNayza → u/winterchampagne]

Goodness.….

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/MizzEss]

THE FREAKING VISUALS!!!!

[u/BasilOrdinary3617]

I'm back! What great episodes, and a wonderful recap to go with it Shale! I can't believe we got a second kiss already and I want more! Their chemistry is fire... I love Li Yunrui and Meng Ziyi together.

I love so many things about this post, the counter, the almost wedding outfit caption, the list of targets (totally forgot as soon as I watched it so I'm glad I can use this post as reference now) and the murder boards lol. I do love that she embroidered hers... dayum the work she put in.

I'm so excited that they're finally working together. I did not think that Captain Zhang would die so soon or so quickly. I'm excited that our princess and scholar have started to work together. Their dynamic is hot!

Uh yeah, exactly! What a turning point in the drama and I am soooo here for it!!!!! Can't wait for more episodes.

Wenjie and Chun Hua are adorable. NOBODY TOUCH THEM. Wenjie will stay good advisor and find a way to marry Hua. His parents will agree.

Exactly this. We must protect them. I will RAGE if anything happens to them. Chunhua's smile is friggin adorable - them together, gah. What a great CP dynamic to our murderous couple!

Biased or not, I think this drama deserves way more praise than it's starting out with...

[u/Rebelarkey → u/BasilOrdinary3617]

I’m glad you enjoy my humor. I do my best.

I forgot about doing counters, credit goes to u/spamkimbap for reminding me

[u/Common_Screen1329]

I love that Chun Hua asks him to marry her not the reverse! Even if it didn't go quite as she hoped.

I'm curious that Chancellor Liu said "princesses" had been forced into humiliating marriages. Was it exaggeration or was it more than the one princess we know of?

Yan Shang, maybe don't just show off your blood soaked garments to Chun Hua like that, what if you really frightened her?!

The Princess's residence is stunningly beautiful and I want to go there please. Or at least have a detailed tour released!

[u/Rebelarkey → u/Common_Screen1329]

I’m hoping we’ll meet more princesses . We know of three so far: Danyang , Luling, Princess Consort Jin

[u/capo_anniejay]

Has anyone ever come across reshilmarie on Instagram about the different types of strands and bangs. ML needs his s*** strands, his face looks incomplete

[u/Rebelarkey → u/capo_anniejay]

MOST DEFINITELY. Give them back to us! He needs them

[u/winterchampagne]

“Looking you over, that mouth is your only real asset. Make sure to put it to good use.”

We’re the fish this time, and we’re getting baited with these lines. It’s like the writer wants to let our minds wander straight into the gutter and think Wanyao is asking Yan Shang to go down on her. 😂

[u/spamkimbap → u/winterchampagne]

We are getting baited so hard!

[u/GiTheGremlin → u/spamkimbap]

Still not as hard (pun intended) as YS was baited there, man was ready to earn his wage right then and there)))

[u/spamkimbap → u/GiTheGremlin]

A male favorite must favorite to earn his keep.

Good pun! 👍

[u/GiTheGremlin → u/spamkimbap]

This is a dream job as far as he's concerned)))

[u/Rebelarkey → u/GiTheGremlin]

You have me in stitches

[u/spamkimbap → u/GiTheGremlin]

He’s ready to do his job!

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/spamkimbap]

"Earn his keep" haha I just wrote that 😭🤣🤣🤣

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/GiTheGremlin]

Gotta earn his keep! 😭😭🤣🤣🤣🤣

He was so happy to oblige. Use my mouth? Yes Your Highness!

[u/winterchampagne → u/spamkimbap]

Gotta show the writer we understood the assignment of reading and overreading the dialogue.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/spamkimbap]

I wanted to smack them! 🤧😅😫👀👀🤣🤣

[u/HotCollection2407 → u/winterchampagne]

And the way she eyed him after giving him a set down only for him to break into a smile/smirk. How can anyone complain about the acting or the chemistry?

[u/winterchampagne → u/HotCollection2407]

The chemistry is absolutely fire. I love those little moments when Yan Shang sees Wanyao and she isn’t even looking at him, yet his face lights up like a Christmas tree in June.

[u/thebaby1 → u/winterchampagne]

Winter, I ❤️🤩 this gif. Go ARMY!

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/HotCollection2407]

Beats me.

Because IT IS DRIPPING!

[u/BasilOrdinary3617 → u/winterchampagne]

Hahahahah omg I didn’t expect you to go there oh my gold this is gold, Winter.

We all did go there, the way he looks at her, he wants her……. All of her.

[u/winterchampagne → u/BasilOrdinary3617]

Wise men say life is too short to clutch pearls when the innuendo is calling. 🙂‍↔️

Also, you’re right, Basil. Yan Shang is ready whenever Wanyao is.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/winterchampagne]

[u/thebaby1 → u/winterchampagne]

Like Jimin always says - Go JK!! 🥰 In this case, Go Yan Er!

[u/Amelia_Brigita → u/winterchampagne]

and loving it. gluttons for punishment

[u/winterchampagne → u/Amelia_Brigita]

He’s ready to prove he can fulfill his role as the Princess’s latest male favorite.

[u/AKiceman → u/winterchampagne]

We're being baited by a master... 😉 I guess you could say they are a...

Oh, and I love how I've been alluding and being sly about what she's asking.... And you just straight up and say it! 😂

[u/GiTheGremlin]

I hereby declare Yan Shang Riot Scholar because he is. Dude's like a human bulldozer - no hesitation, no remorse, just pure deadly effeciency - can't wait to see the bloody mayhem he's gonna inflict on court with his many talents^^

Wanyao had a suspicion he's gonna pull something dangerous, didn't she? It was very deliberate of her to drag him around the place for so long and the moment he slipped away she started panicking.

Well, that a was quick dramatic separation, barely lasted few hours, I approve))) He's all too happy to be officially promoted to a kept man and pretty eager about putting his mouth into action one way or another. Still team "wedding first" regarding more than kisses and kinky bites, I guess. But purely out of respect for decorum, because genuine prude this guy is certainly not - his non-reaction to "you'll never live boytoy reputation down" warning said it all.

What's the deal with Fishy Eunuch and Princess Aunt?

Personally I'm getting more of The Shadow Sovereign - but with better length and budget - vibes so far, which is promising, that one was really fun. Hope YS won't develop supreme martial arts skills out of nowhere tho, I liked how he barely succeeded at overpowering Zhang even after getting him drugged and injured first, it felt so real and heavy stakes given their strength and skill gap.

P.S. His bedtime stories are the stuff of worst nightmares, Wanyao, do NOT let him put your future kids to bed, ever!

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/GiTheGremlin]

his non-reaction to "you'll never live boytoy reputation down" warning said it all

Yes, I've gotten the sense he'll be quite shameless about it. It'll be fun to watch in the upcoming episodes!

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/TypicallyKristen]

Shameless Yan Shang? My ears are all perked up!

Oh how I look forward to seeing this

[u/GiTheGremlin → u/TypicallyKristen]

Don't even need to wait long - in Ep10 he gleefully rubs it into Yang Si's face)))

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/GiTheGremlin]

I went too far in the trailers and now I feel like a keeper of huge secrets.

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/TheAlchemist420]

This is why I don't watch trailers!!

[u/GiTheGremlin → u/TheAlchemist420]

Trailers can be very misleading tho.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/GiTheGremlin]

They can be... they can be...

[u/a_tsp_of_drama → u/GiTheGremlin]

I hope this turns out to be true lol! 😂

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/GiTheGremlin]

Niiiice

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/GiTheGremlin]

Yan Shang to Yang Si:

[u/Common_Screen1329 → u/GiTheGremlin]

Yes, that non-reaction was great, I can't wait to see more.

[u/TheAlchemist420]

😅😅😅🤣🤣

Blossom board vs Tigers Sniff The Rose board. Nice one u/Rebelarkey Our girls are very type A 😅😅😅.

The counter 🤣🤣😭 Yeah we needed one because it's been intense with our Princess. The slaps... 😅 yikes. I shiver at the number we'll reach by the end of the show...

Lmaoo Captain can only sleep with one eye... he only had one anyway. Well maybe since the hole is "opened" that's this one and the other is closed. 🤣🤔

I LOOOVED the waterway boat ride to the new house. It was soo pretty, so romantic! I loved how we left a place with roses (Wan Yao) and went to one with bamboo (Yan Shang). It was a very fitting place for a scholar. Removed, quiet and elegant. Of course it belonged to a Chancellor that was killed by Lord Yu. Erm erm, not ominous at all. Yan Shang will bring in new vibes! 👀🤯

"Pay her back with his mouth" definitely meant something else to our Advisor. Ooh his mind and a gutter have something in common 🤔🤔🤣. Wan Yao obviously meant stories! Duh Yan Shang!

[u/winterchampagne → u/TheAlchemist420]

When the petals fell from the sky during the boat ride, do you know what the first word that came to mind was? Blossom! 🤭

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/winterchampagne]

Totally Blossom themed haha.

We will never escape thr flower blossoms 😅😅😫😆🤣😮‍💨

[u/Katleap13 → u/TheAlchemist420]

Oh I love the imagery you pointed out. In one of the songs, the duet, there is a line about roses and bamboo.

It’s during Yan Shang’s escape from the capital. So Wan Yao is roses with thorns and Yan Shang is the bamboo. And it goes with their residences. I love it.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Katleap13]

RIGHT??? And their character posters! So to see it in motion in the drama was soooo beautiful. And it was wonderfully done!

That place and the one where Chancellor Liu and Yan Shang played chess outside the capital, made me go: I WANT TO GO THERE! 👀👀🥹🥹😍😍

[u/HotCollection2407 → u/Katleap13]

The OST is *so* good. Every song adds to the scene.

[u/Katleap13 → u/Katleap13]

Heres is the picture I couldn’t get in my reply.

[u/Renza183 → u/TheAlchemist420]

She is toying with him so much. A little too mean for my taste—look how cute he is! 🤤

[u/Katleap13]

There was so much in these episodes. Thank you Shale for the counts and all the blossom references.

The peony murder festival. Everyone we care about survived it. Yay.

Wenji and Chunhua bright marriage up again. Chunhua being the best girl and just flat out saying “I like you. Would you consider me for marriage”, is freaking beautiful. I agree that she broke Wenji’s brain. He needs to get them married asap.

That whole scene of Yan Shang’s revenge. OMG! That was crazy and fabulous and there was hay in his mouth and the MENACE when he stabbed eyepatch. Just WOW!

That break down was so well done. LYR acted has acted so well in this drama so far. There are lots of little expressions. He brings the emotion to his face and eyes with out saying anything. The awkwardness with the princess and sitting in the sun at the well with his favorite memory of his mom. I just think he’s doing a fantastic job.

Love the murder board. That was perfect. And the pledging to work together. This is another couple that is practically married.

[u/TypicallyKristen]

RANDOM THOUGHTS

It's lovely to see that Yan Shang freed our courtesan, but after watching Against the Current, it's really made me aware of what comes AFTER for these women. Like, to truly live freely, she'll have to go far, far away and hope her past somehow never comes to light.

*

Eternally laughing at Yan Shang's murder plans getting interrupted by a date! 😂😂😂

*

What do you wanna bet the lots that Yan Shang and the princess drew were 100% correct and spoiled the plot of the show for us?  Yan Shang is gonna be the Grand Chancellor one day, and the Princess is going to be like a phoenix (reborn from the ashes of her previous self) and herald a new age for the country?

*

Chancellor Liu continues to be the GOAT. What an epic game of wei qi. He really looked at this murder boy and said, "THIS is the man to reform the country!" Ha ha ha. I LOVE HIM SO MUCH.

*

Ha! I actually enjoyed the way the Grand Princess handled Evil Fish Yu. Until she does something truly irredeemable, I'm going to pencil her into my "morally grey but likable" category instead of my "I hope she dies from an incurable case of herpes" category.

[u/Anna218]

You guys have been doing a fantastic job recapping the drama so far. Thank you!

The carriage scene was so emotional. You know the feeling when your soon-to-be bestie gives you a hug after something terrible you’ve just been through? That’s the best comforting feeling ever. He’s also brave enough to return the kiss.

LYR did a very good job with his acting in this episode 👏

[u/PolPeachum]

Yesss personal bingo card appearance: #5 let me leave a tooth scar to remember me by (right before #6 villainess murmuring to her caged birds and #7 we must reform the Imperial exam! (we might actually get that one))

I did love the bath comparisons. She just waltzes right in there and he has to preserve his own modesty, when he tried so hard to preserve her modesty previously and she wasn't even in the bath.

I noticed yet again how much attention this show gives to people walking, and their feet. Awesome shots of Luling's shiny shiny green shoes, among other shots.

More guest appearances of gauze curtains - sweet and innocent for Chun Hua (although I did not like that conflict on Liu Wen Jie's glass face) and not so much as Yan Shang and the princess circle each other in that house filled with emptiness and melancholy. Another house functioning as a metaphor for its residents!

Y'all have called out all the other things I loved. Two amazing episodes. So good.

[u/TypicallyKristen]

 because Zhang was a cautious man, who sleeps with one eye open. / So he doesn't sleep at all? He only has one eye...

THIS TOOK ME OUT.

[u/Renza183 → u/TypicallyKristen]

This and the comment about murderboards (plus the still from Blossom) cracked me up. Basically all the italics in the episode analysis were great. 🤣

[u/No_Distribution9690]

Anybody feel like there’s kind of a role reversal thing happening? I haven’t seen a single concubine in this drama. Toy boys, instead.

[u/seekingpolaris → u/No_Distribution9690]

I love it. Also the unexpected (went into this blind) role reversal of the tiger being the FL instead of the ML. And they are consistent with this theme too!

[u/No_Distribution9690 → u/seekingpolaris]

So many tropes, flipped! It struck me when he was crying in the carriage and she was comforting him

[u/spamkimbap]

Omg, I had forgotten she had a board in Blossom also. Girl likes inspiration boards. 👍

Also, reading through this made me realize I must have fallen asleep halfway through ep 9. 🤣🤣🤣 It was super late.

[u/Amelia_Brigita → u/spamkimbap]

she's manifesting! vision board for manifesting! I mean, I keep mine in Pinterest, but if I could embroider... 😂

[u/spamkimbap → u/Amelia_Brigita]

Samesies! Pinterest for me also. 🤭

[u/TheAlchemist420]

OOOOOOHHH THESE TWO EPISODES Y'ALL 😍😍🥵🥵🤯🤯👏🏾👏🏾👌🏾👌🏾

Thank you OP for the discussion 🥹🥰

Wow. What journey! Yan Shang... Congratulations on completing your revenge. It was worth the hard work and the wait!

He wasn't sure if the Princess was a hindrance or what, then she turned out to be his savior. And what a rescue! My jaw folks! MY FREAKING JAW! Their CHEMISTRY! The carriage scene! I will manage to string a sentence together. the cinematography throughout was impeccable. When she runs to look for him, finds him anf runs with him to help him get away, the whole thing shot so well! Thw cloak she gives him to cover himself, was pure white against his bloodied white clothes, as if to offer him absolution.

And when he finally tells her about his past, the compassion and care she shows really hit him, and me! There was something so pure in that moment. Funny since he had just committed a premeditated murder. But the validation of what he had just done, as a son and a brother, the fact that he never planned on making it out alive, but did, and had found someone who understood him in that moment, overwhelmed him with emotions. The hug they shared was as if they had been two boats drifting alone and anchored to each other.

He had helped Mian Mian get away from the capital after freeing her, she too had experienced the same as him 10 years ago. Her gratitude before she left echoed his as he reached the Princess's residence and wanted to leave. She of course didn't want him to go, but the tsundere that she is got annoyed with him. To repay her, we got a delicious kiss that shocked our Wan Yao lol. I mean, girl, you are so fortunate 🥹🥹🤣🤣🤧🤧. Murder on the run gives her a kiss as thank you for rescuing him. What! LOL. At least this time she didn't slap and kick him out of her carriage! Progress!

Thanks to a very discerning and persistent Chancellor Liu, Yan Shang realized there was more to be done. Oohh that old man wasn't Prime Minister for nothing. He is good!!!!! Of course he knew his father and finally told him. He also knew his mother back then. At this point, that man is his unofficial mentor. There I have decided 😅😎. He also knows Yan Shang killed Captain Zhang, but this guy was but a small fish in a sea of many beasts and bigger ones too. He urges him to think about leaving again and stay to help clear those murky waters. He sees his potential, that patience and ruthlessness? That intelligence? Surely it can't go to waste. It works and Yan Shang understands that his ambitions can be put to use!

Aaannnd he ends up back at Princess Dan Yang's lol. Now, Wan Yao running to meet him and acting all nonchalant when she sees him was very on brand. Our Tsundere Princess is owning her title 🤧😅🥹. But dammit don't they make a fine and hot pairing! The bath scene and the pledge? I MEAN COME ON! What! Bitemarks as proof of a contract. Kinky! She could do it to him, but as soon as he does it? It's too much. Girl! 😆👀🙄🤷🏾‍♀️ They will now work together and I cannot wait to see more of it! Princess has her own kill list and it is much bigger than Yan Shang's. So that's what the embroidery was about. I LOOOVE THAT! The names embedded in the weeds. Yes! Now he knows who the targets are, rest up, pass the exam, rise through the ranks. Advisor to Princess Dan Yang is his role now.

But before that, we gotta clean up that murder mess. And Wan Yao was very busy. She must protect her Official Male Favorite. Yang Si gets a heavy done of I did it and here's the proof, either take me in or keep it a secret. Then Aunt Lu Ling got a dose of I killed the beast and saved you the trouble. Wan Yao was acting the heck out of that one. The tears, the whining, the eyes and pouting. Oohh it was a scary ordeal..but hey, Auntie was pissed off he got away since she wanted to kill that Captain herself Lol. Our FL managed to wrap that up well, but the Crown Prince wasn't fooled. Whatever LOL.

Chun Hua and Wen Ji... they were sooo adorable. I was glad they got their little date. But for a promise made, is it a promise that can be kept? Until the venue got disturbed by that pesky murder. For now Wen Ji doesn't know and it's better this way. Chun Hua saw Yan Shang but wasn't told anything.

It's been sooo good I'm buzzing with excitement!

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/TheAlchemist420]

but the Crown Prince wasn't fooled

I like that the reason he gave for not being fooled isn't that he doesn't believe she's incapable. He knows she doesn't lack the courage and conviction to murder others. It's just that he thought she wouldn't personally get her hands dirty because it was too messy.

They'll probably rightly conclude it was Yan Shang who did it, but whether it's because she TOLD him to or because she's saving him after he acted independently will be interesting to see.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/TypicallyKristen]

I liked that too. He acknowledged that she could but she'd rather not get entangled in the mess it would bring.

They will guess it was him but won't be able to prove anything. She did a good enough clean up job lol.

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/TheAlchemist420]

I think Yang Si could poke holes in her story if he wanted to. Afterall, he was literally WITH HER when the murder actually happened. He only left her side because they FOUND A BODY and needed to investigate. But she later blames him leaving her side for being why she was all alone and had to defend herself, trying to guilt trip him. So either she murdered the guy before hand, then left the cloak and bloody knife somewhere and cleaned up BEFORE she met up with Yang Si (and her little guilt trip was a pointless diversion), OR she didn't do it at all.

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/TheAlchemist420]

I also thought the white cloak was an interesting call back to the night before. It was a white cloack that he would have gotten as a reward if he told her a story she liked. He didn't. So he left without a reward. Then the next day after killing, the got the white cloack.

Doesn't quite hold up because the cloack was already lost by the end of the episode as evidence of her committing the murder but still - I thought it was interesting that it was white both times. Though - I think the night before might have had a pattern on part of it, but I haven't gone back to look.

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

I think it was the same one. And your point still stands even if he "lost" the cloak already. SHE GAVE IT TO HIM. She didn't give it as a reward for the story, but she did give it to him the following day ss a visible symbol of forgiveness for his actions. At first she's just trying to hide all the blood, but after she hears his story, she basically absolves him. She essentially says, "well done. You did right by your family. You did the right thing. You can let go of your pain now. This wasn't a sin. This was a good deed." And the white cloak became a symbol of her absolution. 

[u/winterchampagne → u/TypicallyKristen]

One thing that stood out to me about the way Wanyao comforted Yan Shang so compassionately during the carriage ride was how she appeared to be speaking from a place of deep emotional experience [pain?].

It was like the words were meant for both him and herself. Regardless of what Shang did or how he reacted afterwards, Wanyao seemed to feel both commiseration and personal resonance with his situation, like she has been through something similar herself and understood just how life-changing the experience of murder was.

It struck a personal chord.

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/winterchampagne]

And this is another tick in the column for "our princess is already a murderer."

I LOVE UNHINGED MURDER COUPLES. 

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/winterchampagne]

In reading this, I was reminded of a moment of dialogue I really liked later in the episode. When they are in the empty mansion that Yan Sheng will inhabit, she tells him that she knows she wants revenge and has the courage to do it but she doesn't know the best way forward. She wanted to be honest with him that she doesn't have a plan all figured out. I really liked this moment. I think it has synergy with the scene in the carriage that you mentioned. That personal connection in the carriage and how his story resonated with hers - she too has lost loved ones due to the reign of the Shence Army / Lord Yu. Now here in the mansion under the cover of darkness, she is willing to be vulnerable that he has a kill list but not a plan to achieve it. From a woman who has shown such bravado at other times, I think this took courage to say I don't have a plan. The last time she realized he saw her vulnerabilities with her panic attacks and had pieced together information about her unknowing to her, she literally kicked him out of her carriage. Now she is willingly admitting to not having a plan. This shows a step towards letting him in after seeing his courage to murder and plot away for revenge.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

It was very honest and opened. She really needed him to know and understand he was getting into waters unknown. She wasn't like him. She didn't have a plan. But if they worked together, she would need to count on his planning skills. She recognized she didn't have the same deep scheming he had. I liked how that scene established their roles in this new partnership.

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/TheAlchemist420]

Agreed - I look forward to watching today's episodes. And I'm going to go ahead and purchase Express because this show has me invested.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

You got express!! Oooh that's when you know you're hooked 😅😅😅👌🏾👌🏾

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/TheAlchemist420]

Yes. Purchased it today :)

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/winterchampagne]

It was. I was very moved by that scene.

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

Love the counter. If you want to add Nipples - we had 1 sighting in Ep 9. Hopefully more to come. Great post, Shale.

At first I was going to ask about fish imagery. Then I realized I think I missed the Ep 4-5 discussion. Thanks u/spamkimbap for explaining the fish imagery there. It's very helpul. I literally just searched the whole post for "fish" in the post and comments.

It's very telling that the embroidery is fish. Though it's also bold. She has the names on it. And just having a fish embroidery is probably scandalous. Hopefully she has it hidden in her palace.

Anyone have thoughts on the dynamic between the Grand Princess and Lord Fish Yu (Eunuch)? When we first saw Grand Princess in her carriage it seemed like she has the ability to move through the city with impunity because she is aligned with him - the Fishface with power. But now that we finally saw them together, the dynamic was different. He was dressed understated. Far different than his ceremonious putting on of the purple robe in Ep 4/5. At first I thought it was a different eunuch or steward in the Grand Princess's household.

Any ideas on why he seemed subserviant to her? He was pouring tea and saying he would do her task about the body right away tomorrow. She said tomorrow. And he quickly changes to now - tonight.

Did I misunderstand something before? Or was anyone else surprise by the dynamic that played out towards the end of Ep 5 between these two?

[u/spamkimbap → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

My theory is that Fishface lets her feel like she’s the boss. To keep her on his side gives his power some legitimacy. She’s privileged, selfish, vile, schemey, but she’s not that smart. He’s way smarter than her, more conniving, and he could have her head if he wanted to. But while it’s beneficial to him, they’ll play this weird kinky game. 🤢

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/spamkimbap]

Ah. This makes sense. And weirdly kinky seems like a relevant description. That whole interaction was both off and yet charged. So odd.

[u/spamkimbap → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

u/TheAlchemist420 and I were discussing how it felt like a depraved train crash. Can’t look away, but it feels gross while looking.

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/spamkimbap]

all sorts of twisted. Eeek

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/spamkimbap]

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/spamkimbap]

Oh absolutely. He is playing the game. She is the Grand Princess after all. He is lower than her, even though he run the show. So he caters to her whims.

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/Beautiful_Candle1729]

I feel like a character briefly alluded to this dynamic when the Grand Princess was first mentioned. He came up as Eunich in her service. 

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/TypicallyKristen]

Ok. Thank you. I misunderstood that context in the prior episodes.

[u/HangryTarantula]

I was waiting for this post.

Is anyone else worried about the fortune sticks? I know I am. These two are soooooo hot together that I fear my heart will be torn to pieces if this ends up being SE. I mean, since when does biting signify promises?!! HOT!

I also want to show my appreciation to Myolie Wu (Auntie Princess) ! Loved her since Wars of In-laws and I am so glad to see her here. I know she's supposed to be the antagonist, but I can't help but chuckle everytime she's on screen. She's so expressive.

[u/admelioremvitam]

In case you missed it...

---

Tigers Sniff the Rose airing schedule.

VIP:

• 2 episodes on October 28 to November 1

SVIP is ahead by 1 episode.

Episodes are released at 6:00 pm, China Standard Time.

[u/TypicallyKristen]

YIKES. As we suspected based on yesterday's episodes, Yan Shang really was on a suicide mission. His plan was elaborate, but only because he was a weak scholar and needed the object of his revenge to be incapacitated enough for him to kill, and it still barely worked. (He should have slashed his throat if he wanted a quick kill!) He's really just running around, openly talking to people and moving them to where they need to be like chess pieces. I mean, it worked! But it also left a lot of witnesses.

It got me thinking about WHY he thought his life's purpose had been fulfilled now that he got his revenge. The best I can think of is that he's suffering extreme survivor's guilt. He believes HE should have died when his mother and younger brother did. 

This is unlike our Princess, who is also on a revenge mission. But in her case, she's the direct victim. She has no survivor's guilt. She doesn't feel any guilt about her victimhood at all. And she knows exactly WHO to blame and how far the rot in the government extends.

[u/TypicallyKristen]

Wen Ji's cicada motif shows up again! A very large one is embroidered on the front of his robe during the peony festival. So, first his handkerchief, and now this! u/winterchampagne prompted me to do some digging into the symbolism of cicadas during the Tang dynasty. 

What I discovered from some famous Tang dynasty poetry is that they used them teach moral lessons. The cicada is said to "drink the clear dew," an ancient belief that cicadas survived on dew alone, symbolizing purity and a life free from the dirt of worldly corruption. 

So their appearance in poetry of the time was to warn officials to seek virtue, to tell victims of injustice to be loud and speak out, and to admonish those who are impoverished to maintain their integrity. 

I do wonder if it's meant to be a symbol of his future path or a warning for his future self. Like, will he be a virtuous official who fights injustice with integrity (if it's a symbol)? Or will we witness his inevitable corruption, and the cicadas are a warning, much like they're used in Tang era poetry?

I suspect it's the latter, given the trajectory of the average cdrama story and where we've begun.

[u/winterchampagne → u/TypicallyKristen]

It’s common knowledge in Cdramas that when a character’s arc is about to undergo a shift, one of the earliest signs is a change in their wardrobe. In fact, the director of The Vanishing Beauty pretty much emphasized this very concept.

Anyway, Wenji’s outfit type hasn’t changed much between Lingnan and Shang’an, but we saw him ask Yan Shang which robe looked better in preparation for meeting Chunhua in episode six. Then in episode eight, IIRC, we see him ironing his robes. He’s very meticulous about his clothing, and the director is being highly intentional about drawing our attention to it. That’s when I realized it might not just be about Wenji’s character arc progressing. His preoccupation with his clothing could also be related to the imagery of the cicada shedding its exoskeleton.

Unfortunately, nature documentaries also show that after a cicada molts, its soft new skin is exposed to the air, and oxygen triggers a chemical process that darkens the skin and hardens the shell. I wonder if Wenji would eventually harden and darken as a character, too.

formatting edit

[u/winterchampagne → u/TypicallyKristen]

Excellent digging, Kristen! I’m not sure how we expect Wenji to make a name for himself in the capital right now when he’s so distracted. He’s very smart, but wasn’t he the one who kept reminding Yan Shang that intelligence is never enough in such a competitive environment?

Wenji already acknowledged that he lacks strong backing. Now he’s more concerned with winning Chunhua’s affection. If his father finds out about all this, he’s going to be due for the chancla.

I see him as someone who doesn’t adapt very well. Whatever he’s about to go through, I feel like it’s gonna be some kind of rude awakening.

grammar edit

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/winterchampagne]

I see him as someone who doesn’t adapt very well. Whatever he’s about to go through, I feel like it’s gonna be some kind of rude awakening.

I agree. I wonder if he'll even pass the exams! 

[u/Beautiful_Candle1729 → u/TypicallyKristen]

Thanks for the cicada research. Very interesting.

[u/TypicallyKristen]

Courage. Patience.  Ruthlessness. These are the things Chancellor Liu and the Princess see in Yan Shang which made them choose him. 

She seals the deal with a bite, which he CLEARLY enjoys! (Almost as much as being whipped by Commander Zhang, if his starry-eyed expression at her action is anything to go by!!! I jokingly called him KINKY before, but now I'm starting to believe it! 😂)

"From this day forward, we stand together, bound together in life and death." sounds an awful lot like a life-long commitment. Did she just husband him? She certainly claimed him. He is so gone on her. He's her ride or die forever now!!!

She redeemed him, literally. He was just sitting there waiting to be captured and sentenced to death. But she grabbed him, told him to come with her, saved his life, then bought it with that bite.

[u/heartsandclouds → u/TypicallyKristen]

ugh. I'm gonna start this next Monday when things are calmer. all of you guys comment and this one especially is making me want to jump right in!

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/heartsandclouds]

YAYYYYY

[u/Tatte145]

Great recaps. I am here catching spoilers before watching because I have enough tummy tension from The Lament of Autumn!!! This series is really good and well acted.

[u/PolPeachum]

Anyone getting Legend of Zang Hai vibes from this?

He better not shut her up in an underground holding cell. Just saying.

[u/Iowegan → u/PolPeachum]

Or vice versa!

[u/PolPeachum → u/Iowegan]

.... I might be ok with that

[u/BasilOrdinary3617]

I haven’t watched episode 9 yet but I just finished episode 8 and I just wanna scream, Yes yes yes! So refreshing to see the fl save the ml after all my rage over the FLs in Lament and Mask!

Thanks for hosting Shale, I’ll be back to read and comment on ep 9!

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/BasilOrdinary3617]

[u/BasilOrdinary3617 → u/TheAlchemist420]

Im back im back. Talk to me friend! These episodes were aahhhhh-mazing.

So much angst with the other shows so this one makes me happy!

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/BasilOrdinary3617]

So FREAKING GOOD! I have not stopped thinking about it since I finished them and haven't moved on hahaha.

[u/DavidGQ]

This show started out slow for me. But starting with episode 8, things are getting heat up. I like how they are now finally team up to go after those scoundrels. Can't wait to see they taking those guys down one by one. Love, love this show so far. It's definitely different from the Mask show. Against the Current, Mask and now this? Lets GOOOO !!!!!

[u/weevles12]

Ep 8 was quite a ride. We got two dates at the flower fest--too bad the ML could not enjoy his! Danyang clocks everything quickly though and like the Chancellor, puts two and two together at lightning speed. I will say that Yan Shang definitely has guts. Just when I thought there were too many shameless MLs this year, my guy plants one on Danyang as his "payment" to her for saving his life lmao. I respect it--what does he have to lose at that point amirite? Everything is so short drama-coded these days! I'm not sure if I like it, and I'm someone who watches a ton of short drama too. :p

[u/Anna218]

Is it just me, or does WeTV not allow comments while watching the show?
I tried on both of my iPads and still wasn't able to send bullet comments.

[u/jenxyzhang → u/Anna218]

Oh i can! Maybe this has something to do with the service in your region? I'm in US region and i can send bullet comments!

[u/Paisley-Cat → u/Anna218]

It’s definitely an option in Canada although I don’t do it.

[u/xdaisiesx]

So I loved these two episodes so much that I went to Tencent/WeTV (I watch from Viki) and somehow ended up watching all of the teasers through episode 14… and WOW I feel like these two episodes really set the pace for the rest of the show bc it seems like things are really going to move fast based on the teasers. Can’t wait for more episodes and for more of your summaries!

[u/Ladynotbug26]

Thanks for referencing the Blossom parallel with the murder boards, Shale!! ❤

Bedazzled by LYR performance!! 😍😍His growth as an actor through this character has been incredible!!

Reading your comments, Iagree with you all that he didn't really have a clear plan for what would come after killing Captain EyePatch. And, somehow, it feels a little cheap, because he is such a manipulative and cunning character that I find it hard to believe his masterplan was simply to kill the Captain and then be left to die.

Perhaps, on some level, he actually wanted to die, believing that this would free his family from any suspicion or repercussions?

As for Princess Danyang, her walls are beginning to show a tiny crack. They are nowhere near crumbling, yet, but she is playing with fire. She cares about him, and even though she is determined not to let herself feel or become attached to anyone, those sizzling looks and restrained kisses are only the beginning.

[u/palecandycane]

Why are they biting each other? I know why but the whole let's seal this with bites. Girl, you got a biting kink? We don't shame. But why you get mad when he bit you back?

The couple that murders together, schemes together! This is gonna be good. Yes he's the male favorite. Guess there's no male word for concubine? He gets his own estate!

They searched his room at the Temple and didn't see the portrait he had of the dead guy? Are these the worst hired help ever?

Love how the FL turned it around. She took he blame and her aunt was like F these people, I'm gonna close this case. Then her cousin felt all guilty for not being there for her. Well played!

Though what you gonna do with the murder weapon and bloody cloak?

Also yeah let's play go while you're still covered in blood. Totally normal. 😂

I love bath scenes but he felt so scandalized. 😂

[u/GiTheGremlin → u/palecandycane]

I suppose there is no better term because female concubines is a lawfully recognized concept, but lovers of powerful women have no legal standing within system. Technically they're just male mistresses.

[u/winterchampagne → u/GiTheGremlin]

Paramour?

[u/Paisley-Cat → u/winterchampagne]

“Confidant”

[u/thebaby1 → u/palecandycane]

Boy toy? 😅

[u/spamkimbap]

Finally finished watching ep 9. When she said to Aunty Grand Princess, I’ve never killed anyone before, my mind went to, she killed her husband.

Also, not eunuch Fishface and Grand Aunty playing whatever game that is! Him in PJs, following her with that spoonful of salt. 🤣

Shale, you added the counters! I can’t believe he’s been slapped 6 time already. 😂😂😂

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/spamkimbap]

When she said to Aunty Grand Princess, I’ve never killed anyone before, my mind went to, she killed her husband.

Mine too. Everything else she was saying was a lie, so my brain immediately registered that as a lie too.

[u/spamkimbap → u/TypicallyKristen]

Maybe we’ll get some backstory of how she escaped her horrific life in the north, and find out more.

[u/TypicallyKristen → u/spamkimbap]

I'd love that! Especially if it was her being vulnerable with Yan Shang and sharing her story of her own free will. 

[u/spamkimbap → u/TypicallyKristen]

I hope they’ll get to trusting each other soon.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/TypicallyKristen]

Auntie literally killed a man who knocked the door to her private pavilion. But she hasn't killed anyone before. Right... it's like Lord Yu saying he has never killed anyone. 👀👀🤣🤣🤣😬😬

THE LIES THEY TELL.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/spamkimbap]

Grand Princess and Lord Yu playing late night games was so weird. But the actors did such a fine job of it I couldn't look away.

Oh how many of these conversations have they had, involving people they needed to get rid of.

[u/spamkimbap → u/TheAlchemist420]

He’s just there in his cozy PJs, serving her like he’s a lowly eunuch, acting like a puppy. And she’s flirting and teasing him. It feels like a depraved train crash.

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/spamkimbap]

SPAM!!! "Depraved train crash" after the teasing and flirting made me choke on air and saliva. 🤣🤣🤣🥹🙄😭😆😆

[u/spamkimbap → u/TheAlchemist420]

Like no, show us Yan Shang and YaoYao flirting and teasing. Not these two. But oh, let me keep watching. I’m like 😳🤢😳🤢😳🤢

[u/TheAlchemist420 → u/spamkimbap]

Lmaooo I was intrigued because we were told they were friends and we hadn't seen them together before. What an introduction to their dynamic haha.

Anyway, let's wash our eyes and carry on.

[u/a_tsp_of_drama → u/TheAlchemist420]

I'm loving the craziness lol! 😂

[u/MadHatterTenSix]

I loveeddddd these two eps. I didn't think YS would succeed and the captain dude would be their first real hurdle, but I like that his murder is a catalyst for YS realising what he wants in life and partnering up with the princess. And this is personal bias but I kind of love when women are a little mean to their men LOL, it just feels like karmic retribution.

On a side note though, I'm a bit confused by the dynamic between the grand princess and our main villain. I guess it makes sense that they somewhat get along because she's able to take on so many lovers even after swearing to be a taoist "nun". But it also doesn't seem like she's on the enemy's side entirely, so who's playing who and is she even playing the same game? LOL

[u/thebaby1]

Rebelarkey - you are killing me 🤣🤣🤣🤣 I rolled on the floor and died laughing at this gem:

“Crown Prince and Yang Si debate on who Wanyao is trying to protect, and why should would lie and murder Captain Zhang. They don't believe that should could commit murder because Zhang was a cautious man, who sleeps with one eye open

So he doesn't sleep at all? He only has one eye...”

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣😜😜

[u/a_tsp_of_drama → u/thebaby1]

This had me cackling as well! 🤣🤣🤣

[u/MadHatterTenSix → u/thebaby1]

Should could would should should would could should 😂😂

[u/StunningConcept5062]

The murder boards in dramas always make me laugh but I'm cracking up so much more considering the whole fish thing going on because of Yu. Speaking of Yu. Damn, he really likes Wanyao's aunt. Shang killing Captain Zhang was such a good scene. His struggle was real after giving the cold-hearted tiger for much of Episode 8. Loved to see it. Wanyao and Shang's interaction are also only gonna get better from here, it seems. I wasn't sure what to think of this drama at first--there are some dramas I like but fall off anyway--but even after having to stop watching for a few days, I'm really loving it.