I never (knowingly) watch shows with a sad ending. I did this time round, as I heard that this was just the prequel to their happy ending in “forever and ever” so I just had to bite my teeth and get through this…

2021 has really been serving us top titles, I wasn’t expecting one and only to make it to my “review list” but it hit me (or stabbed me) in the feels umpteen times, tragic feels like an understatement. I must pour my heart out in this review! Our lead’s relationship was destined from the start till end and the show saw us through that in 24 episodes which felt just about right since this isn’t really the main story.

SY was sent to be ZSC’s disciple and watching SY’s transformation over the years under his care was very gratifying. Of course, she also found a new family and they aided her journey towards healing. This show speaks volumes of loyalty — loyalty towards the country, family, comrades and even promises made.

ZSC and SY’s chemistry was one that could be felt even without skin ship - case in point, they barely touched each other but you can grasp their relationship through the screen. Props to both for a stellar performance! I gotta say, this is Bailu’s best work so far in my opinion. Unpopular opinion but I never found her acting to be particularly great, but this really proved me wrong. She translated her emotions without words (iykyk) and in a couple of heart wrenching scenes… her silence was deafening and my heart broke for her in that silence.

My only regret is watching this too soon. At this point of review, only 1/3 of “forever and always” has aired… now I will have to wait a full month for their happy ending :(