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A Beautiful Yet Underrated Fantasy Gem
Despite the negative comments and relatively low rating, I still decided to watch this drama, and I have absolutely no regrets. I had seen its poster so many times while browsing Youku dramas that my curiosity kept growing. Knowing it was directed by one of my favorite directors made it impossible for me to skip. I went in with an open mind, and I’m so glad I did.
Unlike many viewers, I genuinely liked every character in this drama. The acting was impressive across the board, especially considering most of the cast were new to me, except for Ryan Ren. Each actor brought sincerity and depth to their role, making the characters feel alive and emotionally real. The three main actors alone made this drama worth watching. They were captivating and held my attention throughout.
I agree that the ending felt rushed, and some parts, especially the backstory of the stones, were not explained clearly enough. However, I had already prepared myself for that, and personally, I don’t mind rushed or even sad endings if the journey itself is meaningful. What I appreciated most was the relationship dynamic between the leads. Instead of forcing a romantic relationship, the male lead remained more of a guardian figure in her life. This made their bond feel pure, meaningful, and never uncomfortable or cringeworthy. In real life, not every deep connection turns into romance, and this drama portrayed that beautifully.
Ouyang Nana as Milan was truly outstanding. She had such an angelic aura, and her portrayal of a blind character was incredibly convincing. Her expressions, posture, and emotional delivery were so natural and heartfelt. Watching her reminded me of a blind college friend I once had. We eventually lost contact, but she had the most beautiful eyes. Milan’s close-up scenes brought back those memories and made the experience even more emotional for me. Her character was smart, charming, and full of quiet strength.
Winwin’s portrayal of Situ Weilian was equally memorable. His character was mysterious, morally grey, witty, and incredibly charming. Whenever his vampire side appeared, he completely owned the screen. I only wish the drama had explored his character even more, because he had so much depth and potential.
Ryan Ren’s character, Li Yingliang, was complex. At times he was frustrating and annoying, but his character development toward the end was noticeable. His motivations came from survival, resentment, and pain, which made him feel more human than purely villainous. While the antagonist writing itself could feel weak and one-dimensional, the actor’s performance helped elevate the role.
The relationship between Shen and Milan was also incredibly touching. Their bond was subtle, warm, and emotional, and I found myself wishing for more scenes between them. The drama excelled at portraying emotional connections without relying heavily on romance.
Visually, this drama was absolutely stunning. The cinematography, costumes, set design, and overall aesthetic were beautifully crafted. Every frame felt immersive and artistic. The historical setting combined with fantasy and vampire elements created a unique atmosphere that felt almost like watching a live-action webtoon or manga.
The story itself was refreshing and unique, blending fantasy, suspense, emotional drama, and historical themes. Despite censorship limitations, it remained engaging, emotional, and thought-provoking. The symbolism, character journeys, and emotional depth made it stand out from typical dramas.
Yes, the final episode felt rushed and heartbreaking, and it may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied. But the emotional journey, strong performances, beautiful visuals, and unforgettable characters made it completely worth watching.
I originally would have rated it 9.5, but the incredible acting, especially from Ouyang Nana, and the emotional impact it left on me made it a full 10. This drama is truly a must-watch for anyone looking for something unique, emotional, and visually beautiful.
Who Should Watch
Viewers who enjoy fantasy and vampire themed historical dramas with emotional depth.
Fans of character driven stories and strong acting, especially Ouyang Nana, Winwin, and Ryan Ren.
Those who appreciate beautiful cinematography, aesthetics, and atmospheric storytelling.
People who like guardian type relationships, subtle emotional bonds, and meaningful connections beyond romance.
Anyone looking for something unique, emotional, and different from typical trope heavy dramas.
Who Should Avoid
Viewers who prefer fully explained plots with no unanswered questions, especially regarding fantasy elements.
Those who dislike rushed or bittersweet endings.
People expecting heavy romance or a clear romantic payoff between the leads.
Viewers who need fast paced storytelling with perfect character development and strong villains.
Anyone who dislikes slow burn emotional dramas focused more on atmosphere than action.
Unlike many viewers, I genuinely liked every character in this drama. The acting was impressive across the board, especially considering most of the cast were new to me, except for Ryan Ren. Each actor brought sincerity and depth to their role, making the characters feel alive and emotionally real. The three main actors alone made this drama worth watching. They were captivating and held my attention throughout.
I agree that the ending felt rushed, and some parts, especially the backstory of the stones, were not explained clearly enough. However, I had already prepared myself for that, and personally, I don’t mind rushed or even sad endings if the journey itself is meaningful. What I appreciated most was the relationship dynamic between the leads. Instead of forcing a romantic relationship, the male lead remained more of a guardian figure in her life. This made their bond feel pure, meaningful, and never uncomfortable or cringeworthy. In real life, not every deep connection turns into romance, and this drama portrayed that beautifully.
Ouyang Nana as Milan was truly outstanding. She had such an angelic aura, and her portrayal of a blind character was incredibly convincing. Her expressions, posture, and emotional delivery were so natural and heartfelt. Watching her reminded me of a blind college friend I once had. We eventually lost contact, but she had the most beautiful eyes. Milan’s close-up scenes brought back those memories and made the experience even more emotional for me. Her character was smart, charming, and full of quiet strength.
Winwin’s portrayal of Situ Weilian was equally memorable. His character was mysterious, morally grey, witty, and incredibly charming. Whenever his vampire side appeared, he completely owned the screen. I only wish the drama had explored his character even more, because he had so much depth and potential.
Ryan Ren’s character, Li Yingliang, was complex. At times he was frustrating and annoying, but his character development toward the end was noticeable. His motivations came from survival, resentment, and pain, which made him feel more human than purely villainous. While the antagonist writing itself could feel weak and one-dimensional, the actor’s performance helped elevate the role.
The relationship between Shen and Milan was also incredibly touching. Their bond was subtle, warm, and emotional, and I found myself wishing for more scenes between them. The drama excelled at portraying emotional connections without relying heavily on romance.
Visually, this drama was absolutely stunning. The cinematography, costumes, set design, and overall aesthetic were beautifully crafted. Every frame felt immersive and artistic. The historical setting combined with fantasy and vampire elements created a unique atmosphere that felt almost like watching a live-action webtoon or manga.
The story itself was refreshing and unique, blending fantasy, suspense, emotional drama, and historical themes. Despite censorship limitations, it remained engaging, emotional, and thought-provoking. The symbolism, character journeys, and emotional depth made it stand out from typical dramas.
Yes, the final episode felt rushed and heartbreaking, and it may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied. But the emotional journey, strong performances, beautiful visuals, and unforgettable characters made it completely worth watching.
I originally would have rated it 9.5, but the incredible acting, especially from Ouyang Nana, and the emotional impact it left on me made it a full 10. This drama is truly a must-watch for anyone looking for something unique, emotional, and visually beautiful.
Who Should Watch
Viewers who enjoy fantasy and vampire themed historical dramas with emotional depth.
Fans of character driven stories and strong acting, especially Ouyang Nana, Winwin, and Ryan Ren.
Those who appreciate beautiful cinematography, aesthetics, and atmospheric storytelling.
People who like guardian type relationships, subtle emotional bonds, and meaningful connections beyond romance.
Anyone looking for something unique, emotional, and different from typical trope heavy dramas.
Who Should Avoid
Viewers who prefer fully explained plots with no unanswered questions, especially regarding fantasy elements.
Those who dislike rushed or bittersweet endings.
People expecting heavy romance or a clear romantic payoff between the leads.
Viewers who need fast paced storytelling with perfect character development and strong villains.
Anyone who dislikes slow burn emotional dramas focused more on atmosphere than action.
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