luyuxics

This drama was honestly so good! The story was so interesting and while the romance was more of a subplot in this drama, I think that it was still there, although subtle. I remember seeing somewhere that ZLH got hate for Gong Ziyu, and I honestly don't really understand why? I mean, sure, his character isn't as "interesting" as, say, Cheng Lei's character, Gong Shangjue, but I still absolutely adored his role here.

Gong Ziyu is someone who is described to "soft-hearted," and while that is true, he is also someone that is extremely intelligent, more so than he lets on. Overall, though, he is extremely loyal and also willing to bear the consequences of falling for Esther Yu's character, Yun Weishan. He is someone who is perfectly imperfect, but also loves Weishan despite the fact that she was sent there to assassinate him. Despite finding out that she is an enemy spy, he still continues to spare her life, even refusing to turn her in when she begs him to. He refuses to give up on her, despite the circumstances. He is fiercely protective of her, and his love for those he cares about, such as his sister, Gong Zi Shang. (one of my favorite characters in this drama, btw, she's absolutely hilarious!) He loves Weishan despite the fact that she's supposed to be his enemy, and that her people were responsible for the tragedies that befell the Gong residence years and years ago.

Esther Yu's acting definitely surprised me here. I am used to her playing naive or "cutesy" characters, and her role of Yun Weishan was the complete opposite of her other roles. She should honestly get more roles like these in the future, for I think it shows that she's way more than the cutesy roles that she is known for. I thought that this role allowed her to show her versatility as an actress, as well as showcase a completely different side of herself. I honestly was so impressed by her acting in this drama, as her character is supposed to be this cold, "unfeeling" assassin that should take lives without question. Despite, that, though, her vulnerability and softer side still shine through, especially when it comes to the death of her younger sister, Yun Que.

The acting of Cheng Lei and Lu Yuxiao was so impressive!! Their characters are both equally cunning and intelligent, and I can see why many wanted them to end up together, despite the fact that their dynamic was a little "toxic." I will say, though, that Lu Yuxiao should definitely play these kinds of roles more. I think they really suit her. Cheng Lei's acting was also equally as impressive! His acting is honestly so underrated, and it was such a contrast to his character in How Dare You, who is a bit goofier, in a sense. He's honestly such a versatile actor.

I will say, the only gripe that I had with this drama was the ending. It honestly haunts me and left me with so many questions. Like what happened to Weishan??? And what happened to Shangguan Qian (Lu Yuxiao's character???) after she left? Overall, the drama was genuinely so good, but I just wish we got a much better ending than the one we got.