The starving, sick horse at the end of episode 8 looks like the one in Blood of Youth. It must be owned by the company that manages Li Hong Yi. Its flanks are caved in and ribs are showing. In one shot you can see his leg extended, trying to hold himself up. Wish I could contact them and let them know it is horrifying to see that abused, dying animal being worked till it drops. One actor commented in an interview on how badly the horses are treated. I've seen starving horses in other cdramas. We're helpless,
As for the story, it's kooky and different. Li Hong Yi is charming. Very watchable.