This is a serious and intense spy period drama. First few episodes were confusing as not familiar with the characters (looked alike) except for Chen Kun and Bai Yu, plus the pace was fast but once you get the hang of it, you would be able to follow each characters and the story accordingly. The ending recap is a plus as well, makes you understand the plot better in case you are still confused or missed out certain details. The brighter and slight comedic effect also manages to relieve some emotional feel with every episode.

Chen Kun is good in his laid back Chen Gong while Bai Yu, in his all seriousness, is great to watch as well. I also enjoyed Chancellor Mi's acting, Wei's Guo, Clerk Feng, Di Yue, Sun, AB, almost all.

Liked the cinematic screening of the drama, candles' dimness, the simple props, no fancy clothes, no act-cute actresses (AB counted ? ) no pretty boys, no extravagant backdrops.

If you like no-nonsense and dont mind bearded men in plots planning, then I would recommend you to watch this as this is one of the better production in the light of other period dramas during this time.