A Story of Twists and Triumph
I almost dropped this drama during the first 3 episodes (not sure if its because the pacing initially). I decided to give it another chance (or at least till the 5th episode) and things picked up afterwards.
The storytelling was really good; the plot twists were well written, and not everyone was who they seemed to be. It's like a good 50% of the characters were like chess grandmasters as they plot and scheme with/against each other. The story was also weaved like a intricate web, and all the characters / story were small pieces that fit a large puzzle.
Zhuang Han Yan, the FL of this drama honestly have one of the saddest backstory (based on what I have watched in 2025 so far), but what amazes me she doesn't admit to fate and takes matters in her own hands, wanting to change her destiny. I also like that she also want to help those around her, who are stuck in similar predicament. This makes me respect the character so much.
Fu Yun Xi, the ML is like a magistrate with A LOT secrets (which made him hard to read at the start of the drama), especially when what he says does not equate to how he acts. But this guy grow on you as the story progresses, as things unfold itself.
Acting wise:
1. Chen Du Ling (Zhuang Han Yan) - my 2nd drama of Du Ling as the female lead. Maybe because of the stark difference in the characters, I actually like her as Zhuang Han Yan, a strong woman (instead of a dimsel in distress). I think her acting here was great as well.
2. Xin Yun Lai (Fu Yun Xi) - Raising from support role when I first saw him to the main lead, Xin Yun Lai came a long way I feel. His acting here was not too bad, but may have lack the intensity/depth compared to other actors who acted in similar roles before.
3. These actors/actress deserved a special mention, but they are those who make this show so much more enjoyable:
A. Wen Zheng Rong (Ruan Xi Wen) - I had seen her in other dramas before, but none had such long lasting impact as this one. She really delivered Ruan Xi Wen to you.
B. Wang Yan (Zhou Ru Yin) - veteran actress, she delivers her character perfectly here
Ost:
Personal favorite: 焰 (Flame) - 李琦 (Li Qi)
The storytelling was really good; the plot twists were well written, and not everyone was who they seemed to be. It's like a good 50% of the characters were like chess grandmasters as they plot and scheme with/against each other. The story was also weaved like a intricate web, and all the characters / story were small pieces that fit a large puzzle.
Zhuang Han Yan, the FL of this drama honestly have one of the saddest backstory (based on what I have watched in 2025 so far), but what amazes me she doesn't admit to fate and takes matters in her own hands, wanting to change her destiny. I also like that she also want to help those around her, who are stuck in similar predicament. This makes me respect the character so much.
Fu Yun Xi, the ML is like a magistrate with A LOT secrets (which made him hard to read at the start of the drama), especially when what he says does not equate to how he acts. But this guy grow on you as the story progresses, as things unfold itself.
Acting wise:
1. Chen Du Ling (Zhuang Han Yan) - my 2nd drama of Du Ling as the female lead. Maybe because of the stark difference in the characters, I actually like her as Zhuang Han Yan, a strong woman (instead of a dimsel in distress). I think her acting here was great as well.
2. Xin Yun Lai (Fu Yun Xi) - Raising from support role when I first saw him to the main lead, Xin Yun Lai came a long way I feel. His acting here was not too bad, but may have lack the intensity/depth compared to other actors who acted in similar roles before.
3. These actors/actress deserved a special mention, but they are those who make this show so much more enjoyable:
A. Wen Zheng Rong (Ruan Xi Wen) - I had seen her in other dramas before, but none had such long lasting impact as this one. She really delivered Ruan Xi Wen to you.
B. Wang Yan (Zhou Ru Yin) - veteran actress, she delivers her character perfectly here
Ost:
Personal favorite: 焰 (Flame) - 李琦 (Li Qi)
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