If you can get past a very cheesy first episode, the drama does get better (sort of).

The story moves at a brisk pace and it provides us with likable characters. An OPT that's easy to root for because they can do no wrong, a fiercely loyal band of brothers and a second male lead that'll definitely give you second lead syndrome.
But all this goodness comes to a halt when we're introduced to the drama's main antagonist in the form of Zheng Er. To my disappointment, the story shifts it's focus from being about the bigger picture of Country of Zhou vs Country of Qi to a mere lover's spat. The story starts dragging as we are introduced and re-introduccd to more and more unlikeable characters and ridiculous plot lines.

Having said that the story get draggy, the ending however felt rushed and unsatisfying with unnecessary deaths and (IMO) justice not being properly served.
However, Prince Lan Ling does provide audiences with the pretty. Set is beautifully filmed with luscious backdrops and are of high quality production value. Costumes and hair are also of high quality although at times the fashion is questionable. Music is very easy on the ear with the ED being particularly addictive.

I want to spend more time on the acting because this is were the drama truly shined for me. The acting is on point from each and every one of the main cast. OTP has great chemistry together, their interactions felt genuine and their love felt believable. Gao Wei (Zhai Tian Ling) is the single most frustrating character onscreen from start to finish whilst his partner Zheng Er (Nikita Mao) is one of the most despicable characters I've ever had the dissatisfaction of watching ever onscreen even though at times it felt like she's evil for the sake of being evil but props to both actors for bringing alive these two terrible characters because they really made my blood boil. Shawn Wei and George Hu who played Han Xiao Dong and An De Wang respectively also had memorable performances through this drama. Though one to lookout for in particular is Daniel Chan's Yu Wen Yong. Daniel's Yu Wen Yong was a sometimes despicable but always loyal, caring, prideful and regal Emperor of Zhou made him in my opinion by far the most interesting character in this entire series.

Would highly recommend if you are looking for a purely historical romance drama.

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