It's been a while since a very very good ancient slice of life drama. Been putting this off because I seen ML drama before (he is stoic af).

But decided to give it a try because of the female empowerment theme. Boy, I nearly miss a gem of a cast/drama/EVERYTHING!

First of all, the story is really good! The main story arch flow seemlessly with all the characters growth (all of them, not only FL, ML). There is not a single filler/draggy episode. The Hua family growth really warm my heart.

Acting is on point. It is my first time watching ZJY act. Her tough and strong acting suits Hua Zhi character (a little too perfect of a character, but suits the plot). If there are more ppl in real world like Hua Zhi, the world will be a better place than it is now. From collecting strays to tearing up ancient culture traditions to saving her family from doom, Hua Zhi is admirable, head strong, fearless and of all put her loved ones above all. She can go to the depth of hell for her loved ones (even for the little A Jian that she only saved/known for a few days).

HYT acting is good enough for his character is is the cold, loyal and a soldier type. Didn’t really convince me of his early storyline that he lived 10 years in the cold northen land (he is too pretty boy for that part) but I warm up to him as the story advance. Hua Zhi brings out the human in him. The last few episode really showcase his fighting ability (he fight good!) and also finally his expression shows his feeling for Hua Zhi especially during his fight with the imperial soldiers to get to her.

A huge applause for all the support characters! Without them, the story won't be half that entertaining and great! Of the bunch, LYX who play Shaoyao and Myolie Wu who play 3rd Aunt are the standouts. Shaoyao is probably the most loved character of the whole series. When she was trapped in the fure in the last few episodes, I was jumping up and down my seats "don't die! don't die! Her relationship with Grandma Hua really touch my heart. I bawled so hard when she kneel in front of her funeral, reminiscing her memories with her beloved Grandma Hua. Myolie Wu, 3rd Aunt character really have the most growth. From power hungry lead of the house changing to the one that leads the movement to donate their entire fortune to save Hua Zhi from potential execution. I am no stranger to MW acting (from all the tvb dramas). She still got it, solid acting from her.

Highly recommend this drama to everyone. Watch it for the story. It won't dissapoint you. OSTnis good too. 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating.