The social issues brought up in this drama is very relatable. Aside from the rushed final 5 episodes, I find the pacing, and story building from the start, very comfortable. The details in background sound and arrangement of music score are very nice. Most cast are perfect for their character. I love the senior casts, and very delighted by the performance of the younger generation, and especially the leads. This might be the best portrayal by Wu Lei and Zhao Lusi as of now. I love the dynamic of the emperor and both wives, the empress and Shaoshang and emperor and Zisheng. I find the flaws of the characters compliment their strength. I just wish they could release a director's cut version, so that we get a smoother ending.