This review comes from a re-watch a couple of years after the first run. As with many of the newer historical dramas, it isn't without its common flaws. So why the higher score despite some shortcomings? Because it was fun to watch the first time and was still fun to watch the second time.

- Even if the acting is slightly cringe at times, the chemistry still manages to work and you'll still laugh out loud, then shed a few tears, and go back to laughing again. Xiao Zhan also does a good job in keeping the momentum going.
- Even if there are some plot holes and inconsistencies, the story and twists were well-paced and interesting enough to keep you wanting to get to the next episode even when it's already past midnight.
- Even if the action scenes are flimsy at times, it's too late to care because you're already drawn in to the plot.
- Even if the dramatizations can get a bit much as usual, it actually works well here for the comedy relief which balances out the grimmer undertones.

Despite having dropped other series for less, this one just manages to blend itself well. For a fairly long drama, it surprisingly had minimal draggy moments because the plot usually shifts when it threatens to reach that point. The underlying morals Asian films usually try to incorporate, is actually much more realistically done in this one. And although I don't agree with the romantic censorship, it works out well for me personally because romantic subtleties are usually much more meaningful.

Overall, it is a memorable one and it makes me think the novel must really be great.