Favourite of all time

Absolutely favourite drama from the script, pacing, characters. Lost count of the times I've watched this.

Everything TT

Loved the mystery aspect of this drama. It's interesting how we get insight on each character's role and a bit about their backstory. The best part about it personally, is how it reveals what is justice and gets the audience to reflect on their own prejudice on the law and circumstances surrounding the characters. Again, I love the grey-ness of it all and uncovering part of ourselves as we too see the characters uncovering parts of themselves. Not forgetting to mention, it also touches on important though sensitive topics such as toxic relationships.  

TRAGIC BUT BRILLIANT n beautiful. The portrayal of people in the palace, especially women and the freedom of choice or lack thereof. stunning. every scene seems intentional and symbolic, very focused and well thought out drama. 

amazing script, cast, pacing, osts EVERYTHING. realistic portrayal of relationships, guilt, trauma and healing as well as growing. amazing character development for both leads as well as side character. very heartwarming <3

Went in without expectations but was pleasantly surprised. I loved the storyline and the characters. Major theme on grey-ness of the world, the way the line between right and wrong is blurred. Also loved the relationships between each of the characters. Ngl, it was what got me into Xiao Zhan.

*Spoiler alert!!

An absolutely tragic love story. BAI LU is such a great actress being able to portray a range of emotions without lines (her character was mute). THE CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT, when ShiYi finally learns to recover from her trauma and begins to speak. BUT THE PAIN when she suffers yet again and falls back to being unable to utter a word. ANd ofcourse the heartbreaking ending. 

Beautiful production and cinematography. Great casting. It is a slow burn drama, may not be for everyone but I really enjoyed seeing the build up and development of relationship between the main leads. Not to mention the supporting roles also have interesting side plots.