This Chinese drama begins like a harmless crime story set sometime in the imperial era. Zhang Ping, a gifted noodle seller and equally talented amateur sleuth, is exploited by Lan Jue, the Vice Minister of Rites, who is hoping for political advancement. Strange murder cases occur around the palace, and Zhang Ping's sharp deductive skills prove useful in pursuing them.
Between the two main characters-who at first stand in stark contrast to one another-a relationship of cooperation and mutual support develops, gradually opening the door to revelations about past events: the annihilation of an entire village by a mysterious poisonous cloud, the execution of Lan Jue's father and many of his relatives, and the troubled relationship between the Empress Dowager and her son. These discoveries not only put Zhang Ping and Lan Jue's friendship to the test but also reveal that every fragment forms part of a larger picture.
This makes for an incredibly gripping narrative arc that, by the middle of the series at the latest, becomes almost impossible to turn off. On top of that, the casting is pitch-perfect down to the supporting roles, and the production design is lavish.
However, viewers expecting the typical fight scenes of Chinese historical dramas may be disappointed. There are no warriors flying through the air or similar stylized battles. Instead, the series captivates with its intricate concept and its constant exploration of the nature of good and evil.
In the end, it raises profound questions: Should one attempt to cleanse and rectify the mistakes of the past, or, for the greater good, sometimes strike a pact with the devil? The two protagonists are compelling to follow-not for their fists, but for their inner struggles.
Though "only" a TV series, Tencent has created something here that feels like grand epic cinema. A truly remarkable production that clearly bears the mark of genuine dedication.
