The problem and possible solutions to said problems lie within the premise of the drama. There is just a constant battle for the spotlight between all the subplots the writer(s) were aiming to showcase which in turn just makes the story sometimes seem sloppy and all over the place. I had a concern about this but luckily it was mostly resolved by the end, and the last 3 eps are the best imo.

To start off, the introduction is good, we are introduced to our leads and their background and importantly their first meet post past events. The narrative is well set with us being aware of the basic relationships between everyone especially with our male lead Sajo Hyeon/Akhee who has a split personality. We see the dynamic between his personalities and who prefers what, what their strengths and weaknesses are. Just a heads up for the first couple of episodes there's also a viewer battle/struggle of trying to figure out which personality he is especially when there is a hint to the switch.

Like in most sageuks (I am guessing, 'cause I've only seen about a handful atp), other than the revenge and personality disorder our ML has, there's the coveting of power by everyone around the throne and struggle for control of the throne. And that's where the thrill as well as most of the problems come about. Firstly, we all know Yoong wants the throne and is willing to go to extreme lengths to attain it which is not a secret to everyone but the question is why doesn't anyone do anything to punish/stop him? He just keeps getting a slap on the wrist for it and moves on with life which is a drag and ends up not being interesting. Secondly, I don't understand why Geumhwa (and her dad) wants power because she doesn't even use it for anything other than fight with Consort Myung, so her story is kinda lame but she is getting screen time that's for sure. Plus for someone who wants power she sure yields too much to other people. But imo these both pale in comparison to what they did to Yeon Wol. My girl came for revenge and it only lasted 3eps (and that's being generous) given what Akhee did to her. They messed up her storyline imo. Like she gave up too soon on revenge and she just became the plot driver into figuring out Akhee and Hyeon which doesn't make sense. Like, even if she isn't trying to get revenge anymore, is she going to set the record straight and reclaim her rightful position? (Also, she trained to be an assassin and didn't learn how to swim?)

There's obviously other plots like the late king's struggle with treason, Akhee and Hyeon's battles, Chung Ta and her lack of a backbone. But the exploration of all these plots simultaneously with a lack of direction of the drama are the problem. Rather than wondering what will happen in anticipation of what is to come, you end up wondering what will happen in a state of disbelief of the many things that have already happened. It's more of I wonder what absurd thing they will pull out next episode rather than plot development because there is little to no such thing in this drama. This may make watching feel like a chore rather than fun.

In every episode, the newest plot line takes front and center stage until the thrill wears off then another takes it's place with an occasional visit to pre-existing plots. This works both in favor and against the drama depending on how good the plot is, resulting in a sometimes good and occasionally bad episode. Then there is momentary plot introductions like that one of Eunuch and that palace lady that are unnecessary additions. Like why keep adding more plots instead of developing and better explaining what already exists? For instance, how Yoong and Prince Ga Ron and Co got acquainted to the point that he has influence, or how Akhee is only affected by Yeon Wol, or even the development of Hyeon and Akhee's interactions and dynamic, or how Yeon Wol learnt the things she knows.. but oh well..

All in all the drama is good & the sub plots are decent. They are just not well developed to have a lasting impression. Therefore you need more patience than usual. They did a good job wrapping up the show but imo I would rather it was 12 eps with a fast pacing and hoping for more eps than wishing it was shorter like I am now because mid season it started being a drag.