Plot wise, this drama did not disappoint. It is intricately built up from the start and I am definitely impressed by the plot twists. This drama really doesn't give any characters room to breathe and nothing is smooth-sailing in this drama. You can never hate any character other than the empress because they only did what they could out of the situation they're in.

Personally they brought up the plot with RQ a little too late!! I wish there were more scenes with him because his acting is just brilliant. At the end of the drama, I have no tears left lmao. Noone prepared my heart for such a cruel plot!!! But fret not, there is no tradgedy tag as you can see so those worrying about it can still watch it!

Acting wise, Leo who acted as RQ was brilliant. He stole my heart and I have never been so heartbroken for a character. His last scene was absolutely magnificent and I loved his chemistry with the FL! Many people mentioned how the ML and FL had little chemistry. I still love how the ML had unwavering loyalty towards the FL! FC was a heartbreaking character too. He didn't know how to love because he was used as a tool all his life. I wish the FL tried to understand him more instead of coldly rejecting him whenever he is good to her.

The music was great as the osts fit the scenes pretty well.

Rewatch value isnt very high because my heart hurts but RQ scenes are definitely on my rewatch plans!!

This drama was executed pretty nicely, tied up all loose ends although there were unnecessary deaths like all chinese historical dramas so its really worth a try!!