beta
Now that I have had my fill of the romance there are some interesting plot elements I would like to see explored.
1. This society is Patriarchal. So how do they feel about a male empress? In Symra and Capri male/female gender patterns didn't matter at all. Is that true in this world when it comes to romance. Shuraka brother indicated it was viewed as odd or deviant in this setting.
2. Why doesn't Shuraka add Tei to the government. He has experience leading a court and it would selfishly keep him close?
3. Since Tei can't reproduce with Shuraka does that mean Shuraka is going to die (I hope not)?
4.What the heck happened with Shuraka and his mom? Is she still alive?
5. Is Shuraka a little evil or just traumatized?
6. Finally is the letter thing going to cause conflict?
(Also what cultural stereotype is this? I see it in both Japanese/Korean works and it is this weird mix of South Asian, MENA, East Africa, Ottoman, Persian with some medieval Europe.)
I trust BWAT will answer all of these except the bonus one.
I wanted to reevaluate my opinion of this story and what I feel is the confusion for us who wanted more of a character based narrative.
The characters are remarkably consistent (even if it doesn't feel like it) Mok is mentally unstable processing through deep seated trauma and his first time having feelings for someone. Nanjo is self righteous and more unhinged then he let on initially and struggling to trust Mok despite his attraction/interest in him.
Regarding their relationship if one remember the majority of the first season from Nanjo perspective Mok was a sadist who was cold and played around. So him being a bit guarded made sense. As an audience we have been in Mok head for most of the story so it is easier to empathize with him.
I also don't think Suhwa is much of a factor in either of their minds. In Nanjo relationship with Suhwa he was the one in power, with Mok it is more equal footing.
The characters have been consistent it is the tonal/genre flip that is throwing everything off. The author was clearly going for the "they're both crazy" route but the themes were played so realistically that the characters feel confusing now.
I have decided to turn my brain off and enjoy the ride.