u/Thezoeyy

r/DanmeiNovels r/CDrama r/EastAsianDramas r/ChineseBL

▲ 61 r/ChineseBL

A Winter Sun Wakes the Wind in Spring Hill's Dream (There is a method called magic) BTS (2026.10.1)

Subs are mine.

Source: Jialanshanying

u/Thezoeyy — 14 days ago

▲ 28 r/ChineseBL

What’s your favorite livestream? ( A Winter Sun Wakes the Wind)

It’s day 6 of YuYi 30 Day challenge and today’s question is “What’s your favorite duo livestream?”

I started writing this post right before midnight but it’s midnight already.

I’ve been able to follow almost all their livestream, thanks to the wonderful people here who assist with subtitles.

Once again, it’s hard to pick one livestream cause I pretty much enjoy almost everything. I’ll just share my favorite moments in some of the livestreams.

One, the livestream at Changyang’s house where they had to search for cards then answer the questions on the cards is one of my favorite livestream. It’s really at the top for me. It was so much fun and the house searching made it interesting. The highlight was the heartbeat challenge where thousands of viewers found out that Jingyu’s hands were sensitive when Kuma holds them. I mean, 135 is pretty high. The picture of them holding hands while showing off 144 as the final number was really the cherry on top.

Another livestream I love is the Go-Kart and Rock climbing one. It’s just really nice to see them have fun and just be themselves. The rock climbing one was a super exciting one for me cause I was halfway through Flying Dogs and the characters in the novel are known for rock climbing. It’s like they stepped right out of the book for me. 😂

Liu Jingyu’s racing commentary while yelling until his voice cracked and the wobbly racing that made them crash was another highlight. Oh the photoshoot session, they were really in their own world.

Finally, the recent livestream where they did the eight acts of cuteness is another big favorite livestream. It was way too funny and they seemed to be having so much fun with it.

Kuma giving Jingyu one look and he slid to his knees to do the challenge properly was a huge highlight for me.

Oh the audio livestream too. I enjoy their bedtime stories. It always sounds really cozy and calm.

So, over to y’all.

What is your favorite livestream of the actors in Winter Sun?

u/Thezoeyy — 2 months ago

▲ 45 r/ChineseBL

What are your favorite scenes in A Winter Sun Wakes The Wind in Spring Hill's Dream?

Winter Sun fan group on Weibo is running a 30 Day fun challenge and it covers different questions from the real person to the drama itself. It's Day 5 today and it's related to the drama so I decided to share it here. This week's episode is a hard one for a lot of people and I hope this post cheers you up a little bit.

Today's question is "What scene do you like most in the drama?"

This is a very hard one for me cause I love almost all the scenes with the main leads in it. There are way too many to count but I'll narrow it down to three.

One, the car honk scene in ep 12. It was incredibly romantic. It's like a fusion of so many emotions. It's surreal how five honks could convey the reluctance to part, promises, whispers of love and reassurance.

Two, the scene where Changyang took Qinglang to his parent's home when no one was around. I've always said that Changyang carries this gentle and peaceful vibe with him but it was even more pronounced in this scene, with how he reassured Qinglang. "The memory of hiding you away shoud not exist in our story" I'll leave it at that before I write a long paragraph fangirling over that scene.

Three, the scene where Qinglang was sitting on Changyang's jeep and he pulled him in for a kiss while Changyang was yapping about stuff in the mountains. This was in ep 4 after they eloped. I love that scene so much and I don't even know why.

I'll stop here cause there are way too many scenes I love, way too many.

Over to y'all.

What are your top three favorite scenes in A winter sun wakes the wind in spring hill's dream?

u/Thezoeyy — 2 months ago

▲ 93 r/ChineseBL

(Winter Sun) Kuma and Liu Jingyu XHS Update 27-07-2026

We finally see the results of the “mini photo-shoot session” they did during their Go-Kart racing livestream recently.

They look so handsome. I totally get why Liu Jingyu was using swear words while taking pictures for Kuma, cause damn, he’s so fine.

And Kuma’s endless praises for Liu Jingyu is finally here. Can LJY not remove that sport suit forever? Actor Liu Jingyu disappeared for a bit and model Liu Jingyu took over instantly!

This was posted on their individual accounts on XHS with Kuma posting their group photo.

u/Thezoeyy — 3 months ago

▲ 73 r/ChineseBL

Character & Plot Summary - A Winter Sun Wakes The Wind in Spring Hill's Dream

I came across some comments from people who are confused by the plot of A Winter Sun Wakes The Wind in Spring Hill’s Dream.

So, I thought, why not make a post explaining some parts? Here we go. I’ll try to focus on the parts that come up a lot, like the background of the characters, Shi Yuhao, how Qinglang fell in love, etc.

A Winter Sun Wakes the Wind in Spring Hill's Dream is an original script & novel written by the director, Zelia Wang (Lizzy) who directed Secrets Happened On the Litchi Island. The novel is uploaded in sync with the episodes on Lofter, a Chinese app.

The difference between the drama and the novel is quite minimal but also significant as it gives more context to the drama. Winter Sun has the habit of leaving things to the users to figure out and I understand that it can also be very vague and chaotic, now here’s where the novel expands on things in the drama. So my post will be a summary of the drama with the context of what I know from the novel.

Let’s start with episode zero

(Feng Qinglang)

Feng Qinglang, our main character is a famous BL actor in China. He’s like a pampered queen, never short of people waiting on him hand and foot. He’s been in the industry for seven years after his breakout role in a BL movie with Shi Yuhao, his co-star. Two years ago, he won an award for playing the role of a male prostitute, but being a method actor, he’s yet to get out of the role mentally.

Coupled with the CP fandom dramatics after he agreed to star in a variety show with Shi Yuhao (who he has a complicated past with), alongside the stalking from sasaeng, Qinglang was already overwhelmed.

While lounging at his mum’s house, his brother Feng Qingtian who was on a call with Changyang(the male lead), asks him if he’d like to follow him to Molie. For someone feeling so overwhelmed with everything, a nice trip to the mountain sounds like a good idea, away from the entertainment industry and stalkers.

The complicated history between Shi Yuhao and Feng Qinglang

Shi Yuhao and Feng Qinglang had their first movie debut together and it was a success, I mean, their CP fandom still stood strong after seven years. Using Han Lu and Qi Haoyu’s relationship in the drama as a mirror (They’re the actors filming a remake of the drama Shi Yuhao & Qinglang starred in), Shi Yuhao seemed to be in love with Qinglang who took it seriously. This is my guess, but I think things seems genuine at first but occasionally, cracks start to appear as Shi Yuhao couldn’t keep up his fake persona and constantly did hurtful things to Qinglang. For instance, after they filmed an emotional scene, Qinglang couldn’t get out of character and continued crying, instead of comforting him, Shi Yuhao began to smoke and the ash almost fell on Qinglang even after the people on set screamed at him to stop smoking so he won’t hurt his partner. By the way, this was the content of the video Changyang released.

There was also a part where Shi Yuhao wanted their relationship to be casual and told Qinglang that he’s always caught up in some weird emotions after the former told him he was in love with him.
Their relationship was basically toxic and there was barely any indication that Shi Yuhao was ever in love with him. In addition to all he did, he tried to sabotage Qinglang’s career, purified the CP without any discussion beforehand, ended whatever they had while ghosting Qinglang for seven years.

Now he’s back, trying to ride the coat of Qinglang’s popularity while using the CP fandom as a tool to bring his career back.
I’d like to clarify that at this point, Feng Qinglang isn’t in love with him anymore but he’s also yet to let go of the resentment he feels towards Shi Yuhao. It’s why it’s such a sore topic for him and why he was crying after finally making a clean break from the questions that must have tortured him for years.

And amidst it all, Changyang was there, providing emotional support and protecting him. It’s also one of things that drew him to Changyang. He is moved by Changyang’s character and he finds him dependable which is why he doesn’t hold himself back when he falls in love with him, because through small actions, Changyang has proven himself to be someone who won’t abandon him.

Xu Changyang

The male lead, Xu Changyang is the illegitimate son from a wealthy family with possible affiliation to politics. After a huge fight that led to the hospitalization of eight kids, Changyang was sent to live alone at their family house in Molie at the age of 12 (to temper his character) . Now he’s 20 and he’s become a very skillful and wealthy tea farmer. He’s quite quirky, slightly cunning, very dependable, philosophical and opinionated.

He seems to have had a crush on Qinglang two years ago when he was 18, while the drama is yet to show the specific scene, it can be inferred from his Weibo account where he has been actively commenting and following Qinglang’s social media. This is also evident with how his laptop password is Qinglang’s birthday.
And knowing Qingtian, who is his crush’s brother, I see how he was able to prepare for Qinglang’s bad habits of having people pamper him. All in all, before Qinglang ever heard of his name, Changyang was prepared to charm him.

So when Qinglang arrived in all his princely aura, he was able to anticipate all of his needs, which fascinated Qinglang and made him really curious about this stranger who seemed to know him.

On the surface, Changyang is the textbook green flag guy close to the point of utopia but ep 6 makes him feel more human. We get a peek into his mysterious side and now we know he can’t be defined by a single word. He’s very capable, dangerous when necessary and soft when needed. A man that can run his daily tea frying work, plan a new tea business, elope with his partner and enjoy a beautiful and passionate getaway, while taking care of his partner’s enemies swiftly, is quite the character.

Falling in love

The romance in Winter Sun is the “I’ll love you in every lifetime” type, and it’s alluded to using Qinglang’s dream during his meditation that they were lovers from a past life. Qinglang’s mother is Buddhist, and he takes the matter of cause and effect seriously.

I did a little research, according to Buddism, past lifes is considered as something triggered by the concept of cause and effect (which is echoed in the series) and while the trauma of death and the transition into a new life clouds the memory of the past, deep meditation can unlock streaks of past memories to give clarity to the present.

In the drama, Qinglang experienced something similar, and he was so shaken that he had to touch Changyang’s face to confirm that he’s not dreaming.
There’s also a scene right after they eloped where he suddenly said “I don’t think I loved you enough in my past life”. It seems so random but in the novel, it was explained that the words came out of nowhere for him but it still sounded right.

We don’t know their past life but it’s possible that we might get a series on it.
But before then, these two people from different backgrounds who seem to have nothing in common are really perfect for each other.
Qingtian (Qinglang’s younger brother) told him that nobody will change their habits for him or get used to his habits but Changyang was born ready to accommodate all of him.

This is so long already. I’ll stop here. If anyone has any questions on the plot, I’m happy to help or discuss.

u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 20 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 22 (Express)

Welcome to (my) final episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and it's been lovely co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman who will be hosting the finale summary in the next post.

Thank you for joining in.

Xiao Man who was guarding Deng Yi’s residence discovers that his room is on fire. She concludes that he’s dead since the room was drenched with oil. Chu Zhao and Xie Yanfang accuses each other of killing Deng Yi.

Alas, Deng Yi is alive. Xiao Xun claims to have saved him from being killed but who knows?

Oh wait, we got an interesting scene between Chu Zhao and Xie Yanfang. This would have been a cute scene if the person helping her with her shoes were her lover not this man making her feel uncomfortable.

Chu Zhao discovers Deng Yi’s fake death alongside Xiao Xun’s escape.

In Xiaonan, Xiao Xun’s father is poisoned and he pins the blame on the court. According to their plan, Deng Yi arrives and announces the late emperor’s imperial edict which announces Xiao Xun’s as the heir to the throne.

Xiao Xun proceeds with his coronation, accuses Xie Yanfang of colluding with enemy troops and set off on a campaign against him while proclaiming to have Chu Zhao as his empress according to the late emperor’s edict.

Chu Zhao

Our male lead is nowhere to be found btw. Even if he's here, his character doesn't have much to do, but does he know his brother is trying to snatch his woman away?

Xie Yanlai finally learns the truth behind the fire in Wei village.

Shortly after, he is under attack from masked men and he’s stuck at a cliff alongside the king of the northern desert troops.

Xie Yanfang claims Xie Yanlai is dead and it seems he’s the one who sent the masked men.

In court, Chu Zhao receives news that Xie Yanlai has been ambushed and it’s not confirmed if he’s alive or dead.

Chu Zhao mounts a horse and set to depart for the frontier but Xie Yanfang stops her.

I’m on Xie Yanfang’s side this time around. Leaving the capital in such a risky period is something. I thought she was a Grand Princess first before a lover but it seems to be the other way round. Interesting.

I recall the other arrow scene from the drama and it was more exciting.

Xie Yanfang shoots an arrow to prevent her from leaving but she ends up leaving.

How was this episode for you?

Personally, I don't have anything new to add to my previous observations.

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 21 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 21

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman. Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond this episode.

Xie Yanfang discovers Deng Yi & Chu Zhao’s ploy to weaken his family influence in the court. In Xinggu Pass, Northern Desert troops get a free pass into the city after agreeing to a deal with Xie Yanfang and Xiao Xun.

Liang Qiang is torn in betraying General Zhong for the sake of his family and protecting the country. He decides on the former and swoops in to “save the day”.

love love how Chu Zhao carries herself. so much elegance

However, General Zhong discovers his plan and stabs him while Xie Yanlai arrives in time.

In the capital, Chu Zhao dreams of General Zhong’s death. After she wakes up, she receives a report on General Zhong’s battle injury and the capture of Wangcheng by the Northern Desert troops.

In court, Chu Zhao refuses Deng Yi’s suggestion for peace talks with their enemies. Chu Zhao accuses Deng Yi of colluding with Liang Qiang who betrayed the state and orders him to stay at his residence.

Weren’t they besties a minute ago?

Xie Yanfang visits Deng Yi to gloat about the success of his schemes.

Afterwards, he visits Chu Zhao in the palace to comfort her about Deng Yi’s issue.

In Wangcheng, the Northern Desert troops intimidates Yunzhong troops with the death of the citizens, causing them to retreat.

In the palace, Chu Zhao receives news of Xie Yanlai storming off the kill the Northern Desert king, but it causes a constraint in her plans.

She offers to go to Yunzhong to boost the army morale but Xie Yanfang insists on going in her place and she agrees.

In Wangcheng, the king receives news of his son’s death, killed by Xie Yanlai.

Right before Xie Yanfang leaves for Yunzhong, the court receives a report of Xie Yanlai’s victory in killing the Northern Desert Prince and capturing the King.

I guess they want us to imagine this huge feat. I have nothing nice to say about that.

Xie Yanfang is disappointed at this news.

Whew, how was this episode for y’all?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 30 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 19

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman. Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond this episode.

The scene opens with Xie Yanfang offering to put Xie Yanlai mother’s tablet in the Xie ancestral hall but he’s met with a rejection.

Finally. Xie Yanlai confronts him bout the Bloodburn pill but Xie Yanfang claims not to know about the drug’s true effect.

Chu Zhao joins Xie Yanlai at his mother’s grave to comfort him. Afterward, they share a sentimental hug as Xie Yanlai prepares to depart for war.

https://preview.redd.it/luv2hcakbp7h1.jpg?width=5712&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a2c1892068bda5386467c5a7e29c5dcb214aabc

Liu Yuning ost is really the highlight of the recent episodes.

Liang Qiang returns to the capital as a General and I guess this is part of Xie Yanfang’s card to deal with his brother.

While preparing snacks for Xie Yanlai, Chu Zhao receives an update on the Wei village case and its ties to her mother, Xiao Xun and Northern Desert.

Xie Yanlai departs for Yunzhong dressed in Chu Ling’s armor. What’s a separation arc without a sweet kiss of longing?

“He went to war for me. Then I’ll guard the court”

The scriptwriter finally remembers Chu Zhao’s vow but not the way I expected.

At court, Chu Zhao placed tighter restrictions on the transport of fire oil to foil Xiao Xun’s plan.

How was this episode for y’all?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 19 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 17

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman. Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond this episode.

The scene opens with Xiao Hong (Xiao Xun’s father) gloating over his new title, while he purposefully riles Xie Yanlai up.

He suggests that Chu Zhao should pair up with Xie Yanfang instead since they’re both in sync with their plans even though they were miles apart.

People have been shipping these two in the drama so far and I fear I see the vision. Sorry to the pretty boy general, but his brother kinda served a bit of aura in the recent episodes.

This blue outfit is so gorgeous

Xie Yanlai admits to being jealous of Chu Zhao’s trust in his brother but she reassures him, admitting her love for him.

That was unexpected. She lowkey just confirmed their relationship.

Xie Yanlai reveals that his brother sent him to destroy Xiaonan’s caravan in Wei Village. He also tells her about the blood burn pill his brother gave him. He plans to investigate him in his previous residence in Gaoyang.

Everyone keeps going to Gaoyang. At first it was Deng Yi’s men and now it’s Xie Yanlai.

Xie Yanfang visits Chu Zhao and they discuss their recent schemes and they apologized to each other for disrupting each other’s schemes.

Xie Yanfang returns her grand princess token before she left.

Grand Princess Chu Zhao

“I’ve met my true match. How could I bear to kill her?” - Xie Yanfang

While this line is interesting, I feel like it’s coming up late?

In the capital, Chu Zhao visits her family while her cousin plans to host a meeting with the noble families on her behalf.

Chu Zhao attends court alongside the young emperor and Deng Yi where she firmly addresses the criticisms about her involvement in politics.

After court, she visits Deng Yi to discuss about the power imbalance of the Xie family in the state affairs and proposed an alliance.

the evil Chu Zhao makes a comeback and I need Chen Duling playing an anti-hero soon

Chu Zhao’s evil twin appears again and urges her to give up on Xie Yanlai and choose Xie Yanfang instead.

“Let him think he can truly control you”

I know the story won’t go in that direction but why do they keep teasing it? I’m really digging this evil twin vibe.

finally back to court

Within the short time Chu Zhao was away, the young emperor finally grew closer to Xie Yanfang.

In Gaoyang, Xie Yanlai continues his investigation at Xie Yanfang’s old residence. He discovers that his brother has been sending elixirs every three months for the past five years to Xiang, the young boy he saved in the fire at Wei village years ago.

What do y’all think of this episode?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 28 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 15

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman. Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond this episode.

In Yunzhong, the news of Xiao Xun’s rebellion finally reached Chu Zhao.

She sends Xiao Man (from Cangmu Stronghold) to take her family members out of the capital.

Chu Zhao

Xie Yanfang confidence is really something. I’m surprised at how he’s trying to get things under control in the capital, even going as far as suggesting an alliance with Deng Yi.

Killing two birds with one stone? Kicking out Chu Zhao and Xiao Xun all at once sounds like a good plan but is the execution possible?

I'm so fascinated with the details on the cup.

With the help of a close family friend and Cangmu stronghold bandits, the Chu family escapes the capital, leaving a gaping hole in Xie Yanfang’s plan.

In the palace, Xie Yanfang manipulates the young emperor into stamping an edict that may lead to the destruction of the Chu family.

Chu Zhao besieges Xiaonan with some troops from Yunzhong.

Not Xiao Xun’s father trying to send her to her death again by suggesting that she marries Xiao Xun.

Chu Zhao threatens Xiao Xun’s father with the Longwei army. I wonder how this will play out cause it's a very risky move.

How was this episode for y'all?

By the way, are Cangmu Stronghold members real bandits or they just pretend to be one?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 31 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 13

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman.

How are y’all dealing with the one episode per day schedule? It’s pure torture for me. I just wait a day then binge two episodes to keep my sanity.

Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond episode 13.

The scene opens with a flashback where Xie Yanfang gave his brother a pill that’ll save his life whenever he strongly needs it. This was before he went to Yunzhong Prefecture.

Okay, whatever betrayal his brother did that made him wary of him now must have happened after he went to Yunzhong.

In Xiaonan, Xiao Xun’s father continues his alchemy experiment and finally contributes to the drama by suggesting that his son take the troops to “guard” the emperor in the city if the Northern Desert troops attacks Yunzhong.

In Yunzhong, the northern desert army arrives and Chu Zhao decides to command the troops for war not just as her father’s daughter but as The Grand Princess of Chu State.

Chen Duling with a sprinkle of blood on her face

“Prepare the Grand Princess’s procession”

Does she need warriors? Cause I volunteer to fight for her.

I just wish they gave us more context on her ability to strategize cause she said she wasn’t good at a lot of things when she was young. Scriptwriter, I’m on my knees.

Chu Zhao in her grand princess attire looks so badass as she commands troops to war. Thank God, they didn’t turn her into a super fighter all of a sudden cause I’d actually cry.

This time around, they showed us a few battle scenes, while the enemies are beating their asses, the grand princess arrives with reinforcements.

How did she have time to remove her hair accessories and change her wardrobe? Anyway, she looks so gorgeous in red, but her arrival wasn’t enough to win.

Her mother, dressed in armor decides to go the martyr way. (I kept screaming that, “this isn’t the time and space for this discussion. What if someone throws an arrow while they’re distracted? “)

Her self sacrifice forges the path to victory and but damn, she looked so gorgeous with all that fire behind her.

Mu Mianhong

During the war, The old General finally wakes up from his coma and hits the drum, steeping their path to winning. I’m no soldier, but that action boosted my morale (to fight the scriptwriter for all my past complaints).

The war is over but the brave General is gone. Chu Zhao is yet to take in her mother’s abrupt passing and now her father is gone.

That aura farming runs in the blood

In spite of the events, she refuses to break down, instead she instructs them to announce her father’s death.

“There is strength in grief” is clearly her motto in this scene as she tries to stay strong not just for herself but for her title as well. She’s the grand princess after all.

Three days later and she’s yet to sleep or let out her emotions. At this point, she has swapped her flesh for thorns, if you touch her, you’ll bleed.

Grand Princess of Chu state

The angsty exchange between her and Xie Yanlai goes up a notch as she accuses him of being a murderer.

In the capital, Deng Yi finally takes action (after a million years) but he underestimates the prestige of the Xie family. His plan to weaken his rival’s political power by using Chu Ling’s death is countered by Xie Yanfang who reveals that he holds the late emperor’s relic.

Now, they’re finally revealing their claws after all the flirting or rage baiting. None of them won this round but who knows what’s ahead?

In Xiaonan, Xiao Xun plans to destroy Chu Zhao’s influence by using Xie Yanlai and the common people at the frontier to hound him for Chu Ling’s death.

Back in Yunzhong, Mr Zhong clears up the misunderstanding about the role of Xie Yanlai in Chu Ling’s death to Chu Zhao.

What do you think of this episode?
We’re halfway through the drama, how’s it holding up?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 35 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode11

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman.

Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond episode 11.

Chu Zhao and her entourage leaves Wangcheng and departs for Yunzhong prefecture.

Back in the capital, Deng Yi and Xie Yanfang are still in their cat and mouse games, finding new ways to rage bait each other.

Deng Yi finds a loop to intimate Xie Yanfang; the fire in Wei village linked to Xie Yanlai but Xie Yanfang remains unfazed, relying on his family century old prestige, he dares to gamble with his rival.

In Xiaonan, the Northern Desert envoy is furious at Xiao Xun’s refusal to send troops in the battle of Wangcheng.

Their conversation reveals that Xiao Xun helps set the fire in Wei village for the Northern Desert troops but he’s unaware of the reason. Their alliance really go way back.

Xie Yanlai dreams of the fire in Wei village. Now what’s that mysterious mark? And it seems like a woman was looking at him. Could it be Madam Ge?

Finally, Chu Zhao meets her father for the first time in five years and they reunite in a warm embrace. Once again, the flashback hits harder as the weight of her regret is shown in this episode.

Seeing her act so relaxed and youthful in the presence of her father reminds me that the Grand Princess is really just a young girl with daddy issues.

the poem was really cute.

Back at the court, a letter of rewards causes a temporary clash between the two factions at court.

The officials debate on who should receive the report between Deng Yi and Xie Yanfang who are absent from the court. After the back and forth, the letter is sent to Xie Yanfang but he sends it to his rival without reviewing it.

At Deng Yi’s residence, the disappearing kid shows up again. Begrudgingly, he reviews the letter and approves it immediately after seeing the content.

Apparently, the reward is meant to be given to Liang Qiang, the patrol official at Wangcheng who boldly acted as a spy for Chu Zhao in the battle of Wangcheng.

Okay, this official is very sus. In the previous episode, he was seen with a secret letter. Now he’s said to be exiled by Xie Yanfang after his family was involved in the Third Prince’s case.

Back in Yunzhong, Chu Zhao spends more time with her father, hiding her tears while listening to him speak about her childhood which she doesn’t remember anymore.

Suddenly, her father’s health relapses but a medical inspection reveals that he’s been weak for the past two years.

Chu Zhao is puzzled and in distraught. The poisonous cakes from her past life were only sent after her wedding. But in this new life, the wedding was canceled.

Where did it go wrong?

Xie Yanlai tries to prepare her for her father’s possible passing but she’s caught up in grief and regrets.

\"you look like you did something wrong\"

The scene cuts to Madam Ge helping out with the meal Chu Zhao was preparing for her father. Chu Zhao is suspicious but she claims to be her father’s old friend.

Determined to find out the truth, she goes through Madam Ge’s belongings in her room and finds a wedding certificate with her father’s name and Madam Ge’s possible real name.

Chu Zhao is stunned but refuses to believe it so she checks further and found a metal lock (I hope that’s the right name). She seems to recall seeing the lock a very long time ago with two people standing above her, while a woman softly calls her name.

Behind her, Madam Ge enters the room where she meets a teary-eyed Chu Zhao.

This episode was quite a heavy one for me.

unrelated but I kinda miss the evil Chu Zhao in the mirror. I hope she makes a comeback.

How was this episode for y'all?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 13 r/DanmeiNovels

Stories set in mountains or any rural setting.

I’ve watched the trailer for the upcoming Chinese BL, A Winter Sun Wakes The Wind in Spring Hills Dream, an embarrassing amount of times.

Does anyone have a novel recommendation similar to the couple dynamics and the setting?

There’s no detailed synopsis for the drama but it seems to be a story between an overworked celebrity and a free spirited tea farmer and the setting is mostly in a tea mountain.

A slice of life danmei with something a similar setting works too.

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 30 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 9

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman.

Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond episode 9.

The Chase

Xiao Xun's forces are close on Chu Zhao’s heels and despite how strong Cangmu Stronghold appears to be, our grand princess doesn’t want to take a chance without preparing in advance.

A mini battle ensues between the Cangmu bandits and Tie Ying’s forces, with Chu Zhao’s team winning. Here, we see first hand the fighting skills of the grand princess and now I feel less annoyed about Xie Yanlai leaving the palace to follow her.

Chu Zhao asks the leader of the Cangmu Stronghold about the connection between the bandits and her father but she deflects.

During the conversation, she reveals her yearning for an ordinary childhood where her father was more present.

Chu Zhao's royal fashion stylist deserves a raise

Now why did the woman look down on her own hands when Chu Zhao spoke about her mother being a noble woman? What does she mean by “your mother loves you too”?

I can’t figure out if this woman is her mother or her mother’s sister, though I’m leaning towards the latter. If it’s true, I smell a forbidden romance story between her parents.

The scenes from the past life were intense but didn’t move me that much, however, the flashbacks to those scenes makes me feel emotional now that they are showing the weight of everything.

Xiao Xun refuses to back down, so he seeks help from the Northern Desert enemies.

A Stalemate In The Capital

Back at the court, the impact of Chu Zhao’s absence is shown as Xie Yanfang tries to exploit the young emperor’s naivety. Deng Yi stops him in time and they’re stuck at a stale mate.

Xie Yanfang believes Xie Yanlai is a pet he puts a leash on. Now if that pet is in control of something as valuable as 200, 000 soldiers, doesn’t that make him more powerful than everyone in the court?

I really enjoy the way Deng Yi and Xie Yanfang restricts each other’s power.

Does anyone else see the bromance between them if you squint? 👀 Xie Yanfang takes too much pleasure in rage baiting Deng Yi. It’s almost comical to watch at this point.

The Northern Desert foes commence their plan to sneak into Wangcheng, a town close to Yunzhong, in order to launch a double attack on Yunzhong.

We get a scene of Chu Tang (Chu Zhao’s cousin) defending her family against wagging tongues.

She comes across Deng Yi who pokes her family’s dire situation but she gives him a sharp retort.

While it was deserved, I’m surprised at the exchange and its significance.

Chu Zhao and Xie Yanlai leaves the bandit’s lair and they escape to Wangcheng posing as “arrested bandits”. On their way, Xie Yanlai suspects that weapons are transported to the city sneakily.

There's a sword on your neck and you're smiling

They share their suspicions with an official in Wangcheng but he orders their execution for shaking troop morale and spreading fallacy.

Amidst the fight, Chu Zhao’s uncle arrives on time and this scene is the highlight for me in this episode.

What she saw initially wasn’t the valiant general but a man drenched in his own blood and poked with spears. Like I mentioned earlier, the flashbacks in the recent episodes give the past life more weight in the present.

I like what the director did with the b&w plus color focus in flashbacks.

The scene ends with a report citing the presence of enemy troops near the city.

What do you think of this episode?

Personally, I'm enjoying both the chaotic story and the soft chemistry between the leads. It's also nice to get more context about the characters outside the palace.

Not sure this counts as a fun fact but the modern day promo videos of our main characters is quite a treat.

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 33 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episode 7

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman.

Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond episode 7.

A Wolf Returns Home

The scene opens with Xie Yanlai aura farming at the Xie residence to intimidate his family members who bullied him throughout his childhood.

If I had that amount of power, I’d also rally my subordinates to aura farm and stress my bullies out too. I lowkey wish he did more than glare at them but there’s hope for the future.

The plot moves on to show Chu Zhao’s longing to see her father. A divination made by her attendant reveals that there’s an incoming misfortune that’ll turn into a fortunate event. That sounds so ominous.

Chu Zhao plans to visit her father in Yunzhong to alleviate her worries. Xie Yanlai begrudgingly escorts her for a bit where they ran into a pleasure house owner who mistook their carriage for a running courtesan’s.

In the woods, we get something similar to a love confession (if you squint), cause Chu Zhao hands over her Grand Princess token to Xie Yanlai saying that she trusts him. Please allow my delusion.

Xie Yanlai returns to the court (with her Grand Princess token) to make her absence unnoticeable since the plan was for her to fake illness to keep the scheming men at bay.

The Road to Yunzhong

Xiao Xun finds out about the Grand Princess fake illness and guesses correctly that she must be on her way to visit her injured father.

He sends his men to search for her and prevent her from going back to the capital.

Our witty grand princess is self aware, she knows her plan wasn’t fail proof so she sends false trails in three directions while she goes into a town to find a safe way to Yunzhong.

Grand Princess Chu Zhao

At court, Xie Yanlai refuses Deng Yi entry to Chu Zhao’s quarters after he claims to check on her health. Xie Yanfang instills fear of Chu Zhao’s safety in Xie Yanlai who now doubts her plan in going alone.

In a local town, Chu Zhao meets the woman who stops her carriage earlier and made a deal with her to get her to Yunzhong by following some officials/army dispatch riders.

Here we see our grand princess deceive a suspecting female officer (in disguise), claiming that her ailing mother (the pleasure house owner) needs her to visit her father.

After verifying her claims by visiting her ailing mother, the officer agrees to take her to Yunzhong, meanwhile Chu Zhao finds out a secret about them.

At the Xie residence, Xie Yanlai requests for Xie Yanfang’s support at court while he leaves the capital to ensure Chu Zhao’s safety.

In return, Xie Yanfang collects the Grand Princess token to counter Deng Yi at court.

Chu Zhao, you really found yourself one hell of an ally.

Two Wolves at Court

Xie Yanlai leaves the capital successfully after he was suspended from his role for offending the young emperor, a ruse made up to allow him to leave.

Now the court and the emperor is left in the hands of two wolves. Who knows if they’ll make a mess or they’ll become allies. This is such a precarious situation for Chu Zhao. The path to getting back is about to be long.

Xie Yanfang is pleased with the current outcome but he’s floored at how Chu Zhao manages to charm his brother into a loyal wolf.

“that woman behaves so clumsily and anxiously, what makes her smart?”

Unknown to Xie Yanlai, his brother didn’t give him his best horse with good intentions. Who knows what he did to the poor horse?

Fun Fact

The factions/ characters are categorized by colours in the drama and it's more obvious when the characters are in their residence.

Red = It symbolizes Chu Zhao's personal color and vendetta. It also represents the palace. We see more of red because we're stuck in the glossy palace.

Blue = It's the Xie family's colour. It's not dominant on Xie Yanlai due to the little connection he has with his family, while it's prominent whenever Xie Yanfang shows up on screen, because he's more of a Xie family member than the former.

Ash/ Grey = Deng Yi colours are muted and unlike the rest, it's not dominant but his clothes and some parts of his surroundings are grey. I wonder if there's a deeper meaning to the colour and if it connects with the ghost child he talks to.

Gold/ Yellow = This is the color of Yunzhong desert and the Chu family. It shows up in Chu Zhao's dressing sometimes and in the background of the her father's army quarters.

Green = This color represents the Xiao's family. We see it in Xiao Xun's robes, his residence and in the halls of Xiaonan.

Questions:

What do you think of this episode?
What scene stood out most to you?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 40 r/CDrama

Ashes to Crown 翘楚 Discussion: Episodes 4 & 5

Welcome to another episode summary of Ashes to Crown.

I’m Thezoeyy and I’ll be co-hosting Ashes to Crown alongside our resident snarky boss, AKiceman.

Episode List | Masterpost | Episodes 1-3 |

Please don't forget to use the spoiler tag for any content beyond episodes 4 & 5.

Opening Ritual

The scene starts with a ritual ceremony and by cdrama standards, it’s the perfect opportunity for a villain to play his/her cards. As expected, Xiao Xun launches his first strike by poisoning the young emperor through the smoky herbs used for the ritual.

Interestingly, the shaman conducting the ritual chooses that moment to announce that the Grand Princess’s fate collides with the emperor’s.

What more do opportunistic officials need when they have the backing of the “spirits”? Immediately, Chu Zhao is accused of plotting against the young emperor but she is shielded by Xie Yanlai and Deng Yi.

The royal physician couldn't figure out the poison used on the emperor but he suggests that it may relate to the poison that killed the Crown Prince.

Chu Zhao tries to visit the emperor but is turned away by Deng Yi since she’s yet to prove her innocence. Xiao Xun fans the flames further and she is eventually escorted back to her palace by Xie Yunlai.

Unwilling to back down, Chu Zhao returns at night to check up on the young emperor where we find out the dramatic scenes from earlier are a ruse to force the villain out.

Xiao Xun visits the palace upon receiving news that the emperor is awake. He raises a ruckus insisting on his importance as the emperor’s imperial uncle. Xie Yanfang grants him access to the emperor’s bedroom but prevents him from touching the sleeping emperor.

Behind the pillars of the red bedroom, Xie Yanlai lies in wait, watching Xiao Xun dust off a suspicious looking ingredient in the emperor’s herb concoction the moment Xie Yanfang stepped out.

A mini flashback reveals that Chu Zhao planned to use the emperor’s health update to lure Xiao Xun to take action. But Xie Yanlai is concerned that she used the young kid as bait. Her expression after that line is intriguing.

Morally grey much? I hope someone will tell Chu Zhao that I’ll follow her wherever she goes.

Grand Princess Chu Zhao

Back to the emperor’s room, Xie Yanlai stops Xiao Xun from feeding the poor kid whatever he added in the concoction while Chu Zhao storms in with the palace guards.

While the guards surround Xiao Xun with swords, Chu Zhao shakes the emperor awake while crying.

It’s hard to tell if the tears are real or necessary to the set up. I’m curious about what others think of her tears in that scene. Timestamp is (ep 4, 18:15)

Caught red handed, Xiao Xun is taken to the court hall with the grave accusation of attempting to poison the emperor.

The royal physician is called in to test the “poisoned” concoction, alas, no toxicity was detected.

But it seems our grand princess revenge plan was too rushed because the villain saw the plan miles away.

A mini flashback reveals that Xiao Xun replaced the poison vial with a calming substance before leaving his residence as he suspected that there was a trap laid ahead for him.

With clever words, he turned Chu Zhao’s words against her, citing her disregard for the emperor’s life and using him as bait for personal vendetta against him.

But our grand princess had another plan up her billowing sleeves.

At this point, it feels like chess game between Xiao Xun and Chu Zhao. It’s like playing X & O.

In another mini flashback. Chu Zhao discovered that the emperor’s incense had been laced with a foreign ingredient which induced his weird dreams.

To solidify the claims, the attendant who poisoned the herb uses at the ritual ceremony is brought forward.

First Kill

During the interrogation, the attendant tries to stab Chu Zhao who was the closest to him but Xie Yanlai steps forward to shield her, while exposing his back to the attacker. In a split second, Chu Zhao draws out Xie Yanlai’s sword and stabs the attendant.

Chu Zhao is shaken by her actions and in spite of the chaotic incident, the officials (whose role is to bitch and bite at this point) condemns her for drawing a blade before the throne.

Xiao Xun fans the flames further after Chu Zhao holds a blade towards his neck. He draws the accusation back to her and even claimed that she wanted the throne for herself.

For the first time, the young emperor silences all dissenting voices, defends Chu Zhao and insists that the bait plan was his idea. Using his imperial authority, he orders Xiao Xun's house arrest.A young emperor with spine? let’s go.

Cloak & Chemistry

Back in her residence, Chu Zhao remains shaken about the court hall incident, while Xie Yanlai reassures her.

“Don’t pick up a blade ever again, let me.” (Xie Yanlai)

Xie Yanlai is the official poster boy for yearning.

However, she insists on using the blade for survival where necessary. She’s the daughter of a general after all.

In order to sharpen her fighting skills, she practices, no (dances) with Xie Yanlai in a beautiful swordplay.

I can’t be the only one who felt the smoldering chemistry during the swordplay scene.

what a beautiful shot

When I saw that part of the trailer, I thought they were dancing. It’s so beautifully shot, the blood red floors, the flailing leaves and the smooth moves plus the eye contact.

They didn’t stop there, they proceed into full flirting mode with the handkerchief and cloak.

In the grand mentor's quarters, we see him in a conversation with a young kid named WangYou, whom he tells that he’s more interested in securing his own future than helping Chu Zhao.

Now why did WangYou disappear when an attendant walked in? Is the grand mentor schizophrenic? interesting.

It’s nice to see nature and a scenery different from the glaring red in the palace even though it’s brief.

At the palace, Chu Zhao gives the young emperor a longevity thread and apologizes profusely for using him as bait but he reassures her instead.

Does the grand princess remember her celibacy oath (with Xie Yanlai staring at her, I doubt she does) with how she stares at Xie Yanlai with those cute eyes?

The push and the pull with the cloak is incredibly cute. Look at them straight up flirting in the open.

The next scene is more relaxing, with the political tension simmering in the background while a refreshing scene of Xie Yanlai and Chu Zhao building a swing for the young emperor, rises to the top.

why do I think this scene foreshadows what their future will be? (yes, i'm choosing delulu)

The scene of the grand princess and emperor on the swing is giving me butterflies, so cute.

Chu Zhao tells Xie Yanlai about her rebirth experience after he suggests that Xiao Xun should return to his father's region.

For the first time, Xie Yanlai wears the cloak she gives him and promises to help her.

The sacrifice ritual case was closed and the young emperor’s suggestions on sending Xiao Xun back was met with initial resistance from the officials and Xie Yanfang. But after Chu Zhao shares the possibility of a rising external force in the Northern Desert close to Xiaonan’s territory, the plan to send Xiao Xun back home is stalled.

The writers certainly do find unique ways to get this couple to stand one breath away from each other. The swordplay, the cloak undressing and now the dangerous yet intimate way to practice a deadly move… I’m taking notes.

Coffin & Waterways

Chu Zhao’s next chess piece is the Xie family. She’s really going all in.

We’re back to Wangyou (the kid who is not seen by anyone else except Deng Yi, the Grand mentor).

Deng Yi discusses his findings about Chu Zhao’s elaborate attempt at framing Xiao Xun with treason once he leaves the city, with Wangyou.

Chu Zhao’s plan sounds really good on paper but I’m worried about the execution especially with how cunning her opponent is.

According to what she saw in her past life, the Xiaonan family indeed connived with the Northern Desert enemies.

Xiao Xun is rattled that she knows about his family’s plans with the Northern Desert enemies.

I wonder if the way the characters are shrouded by constant darkness in their surrounding is for aesthetics or there's a hidden meaning. my current theory isn't optimistic.

In Deng Yi household, his mother is missing but was sent back by Chu Zhao. Oh she’s going in with the big guns.

She urges him not to mess up her plan to kill Xiao Xun and threatens to kill him if he does.

Our female lead doesn’t even beat around the bush. She goes straight for the kill without holding back. Love it.

The next day, Chu Zhao wakes up to news of Xiao Xun’s sneaky escape from the capital, deviating from the original plan she made.

Somewhere on the Chu state waterway, Xie Yanlai descends on the boat Xiao Xun was on and attempted to kill him but he is injured and thrown into the sea.

During the clash with Xiao Xun, he mentioned, Xiang, the only survivor in the arson incident in Wei village that was tied to Xie Yanlai in the first episode. I'm sure this will be relevant in the upcoming episodes.

Xie Yanlai is saved and tended to in Chu Zhao’s care.

Apparently, Deng Yi doesn’t take her threats serious as he was the one who helped Xiao Xun escape the capital. In retaliation, Chu Zhao personally delivered a grand coffin to his residence.

the aura farming in this scene...

Food for thought

What do y’all think of the recent episodes and the drama so far?
What scene stood out most to you?
What theories have you garnered so far?

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u/Thezoeyy — 4 months ago

▲ 30 r/DanmeiNovels

What are the authors you read known for?

For instance, if I’m looking for good old amnesia trope plus power couple, I know I’ll be checking out Musuli.

But I’m sure there are other tropes some authors are known for and I’d like to know them.

I notice that I read danmei based on authors not just random books so I’d like to know where to go if I’m searching for crime, contract marriage, age gap, anti hero etc

I don’t know how else to explain it well but I hope whoever is reading gets the gist of my rambling.

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u/Thezoeyy — 5 months ago

▲ 7 r/EastAsianDramas

Lady Liberty understands human nature a little too well

“I've been thinking...everyone’s comfortable level of intimacy is probably different.”

This line as simple as it is will stay with me for a very long time as it puts some things in perspective and it’s just so beautiful especially when spoken by Tang Yan in the end credits.

I’m typing this freshly awake from a six hour sleep after binge-watching 10 episodes of Lady Liberty till 5am as it’s been my weekend ritual for the past three weeks (now on ep 32).

Cheers to the writers for giving us well developed side characters.

I’m a little sad as it feels like I’m the one whose company is closing down even though I have no business bone in my body. But I tell you, if you’re having a bad day, Lin Zhan Qiao is having the worst day. I can count the number of times she had a happy occasion so far and it’s not up to five.

I love this drama so much, like genuinely, it’s so dear to my heart. It’s rare for a drama to pull me in this much even when I drop it for 7 days three times and the quality remains consistent. While watching the first 10 episodes, I realized it was fast paced and I wondered what the plot would be since there’s almost 30 more episodes left but now I know I’ll keep watching even if there’s 50 episodes in total.

Setting my emotions aside, there are so many things I love about Lady Liberty.

It’s a story of different people, shown as it is, just layers of human nature, whether good or bad, arrogant, ambitious, cowardly, greedy and everything. It’s also a story of love, forbidden, disrespectful, passionate, avoidant, happy, messy, angsty and a lot more.

It’s a story benched on childhood trauma of the main characters and how it reflects and affects their entire personhood as an adult. Everyone is carrying scars from their parents and background and here, love doesn’t fix anything, no matter now huge and grand the feelings are.

The plot starts with Lin Zhan Qiao( the fl played by Tang Yan), an editor and CEO of a small publishing house leaving a three years relationship with the male lead(He Nan played by Mark Chao), the biggest author in her firm and in the publishing industry in Shanghai.

The abrupt end of their relationship triggered a large web of issues which the story revolves around.

It caused a chain reaction so huge that led to the fl putting out fires from everywhere. What I love most about her is how confident she is and how she stands firm no matter what. She doesn’t look for trouble but she’s not scared of it either. Even when cornered, she tries her best to keep the situation under control. For someone who has strict principles and pride, she still manages to keep things to the standard.

And I love how the show doesn’t gloss over her flaws, or other characters’ flaws. She's very proud (I personally don't think it's a big deal) and impulsive sometimes. She made quite a number of mistakes and without a plot armor, she's left with the consequences. Some, she was able to fix with the help of her loved ones, some couldn't be fixed.

He Han, the ml is another favorite character of mine. Gosh, I love his characterization so much. Wdym, we have a male lead who’s very comical, fine with looking uncool, extremely avoidant, has clear boundaries and expresses his love in the most gentle and beautiful way. The things he did for her were one of the kindest portrayals of love I’ve seen in dramas. His relationship with Lin Zhan Qiao was described best when he said;

“I love you Lin Zhan Qiao but I hate myself more”

and when Lin Zhan Qiao said,

“When we’re good, we’re very good, but when things go south, it’s very very bad”

that captures everything about their relationship.

The beautiful parts of their relationship was literally everything and the ugly parts will have you bawling in the middle of the night, at least that happened to me.

Here’s my short opinion on some of the characters:

Zhou Lanxin: I love how ambitious she is but deep down, she has self worth issues. She says Ling Yikai (her love interest) is the best man she can secure for herself. But if you’re trying so hard to win over a piece of shit, doesn’t that mean you see yourself as even lesser than that? I don’t necessarily like her or hate her either. It’s just in between. Sometimes I feel sorry for her and Ling Yikai.

To him, she’s like a vengeful ghost that won’t leave no matter how much he attempts to escape. It must be a nightmare to stay trapped in something you don’t want. And for her, forcibly holding onto someone who will never care about her is so pitiful. I keep asking myself what she sees in him. She says they’re the same, well, she’s so much better, more capable and more ambitious. I don’t like her tricks but she’s an interesting competitor. In a way, I'm glad they're together and not torturing some innocent soul.

I wonder how much she hates herself for her to keep torturing herself like that. Send everybody to therapy at this point.

I wish we got a backstory to explain why she’s like that. Everyone seems to be affected by deep childhood trauma. Everything stems from their parents.

Lin Zhan Qiao watched her parents live apart while still married to each other and she grew up wanting a close level of intimacy from her partner. I definitely won't survive in the kind of relationship her parents had.

He Han suffered physical and emotional abuse from his father and he grew up into an avoidant, traumatized man who has a distant level of intimacy. It's so clear how uncomfortable he was when she brought her toothbrush and pillow to his hotel. The context? they've been together for three years. If my boyfriend of three years can't stand the kind of intimacy I want, I'd break up too. Frankly, she's stronger than me cause I wouldn't have lasted five months.

But after 32 episodes, they're meant for each other, despite the big wall of issues between them. Only He Han can be with Lin Zhan Qiao and vice versa.

Zhou Mei : She grew up watching her mother pour her insecurities and hatred over her day by day and slowly she found herself becoming the exact kind of person her mother would hate. It doesn't justify her hypocrisy and contradictory actions, but it gives context to her character.

Gu Yan. Where do I start from? He’s deeply insecure. Tbh, with He Han being a legend, most people will be. But his desperate attempt at trying to hold onto everything and his blind obsession with surpassing He Han is turning him into something unrecognizable.

All in all, I appreciate how dedicated the team is in sharing a realistic insight into the publishing industry. It was one of the highlights of the drama for me.

There are five episodes left before Lady Liberty ends and I know I may be heading for a mini slump (hopefully not) but I hope it wraps up nicely and I wish the cast success.

The acting has been really good all round. Shout out to He Landou, it was nice to see her on screen again.

I’m officially a Tang Yan fan because of this drama and I can’t wait to dive into her filmography.

I’ll also be on the lookout for the other actors' dramas in the future like the actors who played Zhou Lan xin, Zhou Mei, Gu Yan and definitely Mark Chao.

The OST is so beautiful especially the end credits song by Jane Zhang, currently listening to it while typing out this review.

reddit.com

u/Thezoeyy — 5 months ago

▲ 19 r/CDrama

Lady Liberty Understands Human Nature A Little Too Well

“I've been thinking...everyone’s comfortable level of intimacy is probably different.”

This line as simple as it is will stay with me for a very long time as it puts some things in perspective and it’s just so beautiful especially when spoken by Tang Yan in the end credits.

I’m typing this freshly awake from a six hour sleep after binge-watching 10 episodes of Lady Liberty till 5am as it’s been my weekend ritual for the past three weeks (now on ep 32).

Cheers to the writers for giving us well developed side characters.

I’m a little sad as it feels like I’m the one whose>! company is closing down even though I have no business bone in my body.!< But I tell you, if you’re having a bad day, Lin Zhan Qiao is having the worst day. I can count the number of times she had a happy occasion so far and it’s not up to five.