The script is intriguing, although the facts that precede the beginning of the drama are poorly elucidated, some are, superficially, shown in flashbacks, but others are for the deduction of those who watched. The finish is rushed and leaves a little to be desired, but it doesn't compromise the work. I've watched other works by the writer and good finishes are not her strong point, but she usually creates very interesting characters.
In this drama, the writer took pains to create characters with very significant personality traits. The characters Xiao Duo and Bu Yin Lou are shrewd and know how to use cunning to get out of various situations, even due to the harshness of the facts they live, they do not lose tenderness and humanity. In other characters, the traits of friendship and loyalty are clear, as in Xiao Duo's two faithful companions, Princess Wan Wan and the adorable young prince. The personality outlined by the writer for the character Murong Gao Gong is exceptional, he is not a common villain, the character shows traces of psychopathy, lives a compulsive obsession that keeps him away from any shadow of humanity, unlike the other villains in the plot who had objetive for power, he did not aim to reach the throne, but when he obtains power, by mere chance, he directs all his power to his object of obsession, loses all connection with good feelings, stops recognizing friends or enemies and starts to rid beware of anyone who questions you or who is afraid that someone will question you. Despite holding the command of life and death, he is a cowardly, fearful and low-intelligence emperor to rule the kingdom.
The cast was formidable, excellent performances. Chen Yu Qi dressed the character masterfully, I've watched several dramas with her, but since Ashes of Love I haven't seen her shine so brightly. Actor Peter Ho is the first time I see a drama with him, his performance caught my attention. I don't know about the consistency of his acting work, but in this drama, without a doubt, his acting was the most accurate.
The direction conducted the drama satisfactorily, it could have not run so much at the end and a little more attention in editing with day and night scenes, but they are small errors that do not take away the shine of the work. The action scenes are nice and well-crafted.
The costumes were well designed and very beautiful, especially the costumes worn by the character Xiao Duo.
The soundtrack does not disappoint.