The 2nd ML (Zhi Yuan) is the embodiment of this story's title "The Longest Promise"—he waited 200 years to meet his eternal love only to be told that Zhu Yan wasn't actually the reincarnation of Yao Yi. Tragic!!

I want to officially start my reaction by stating that although this drama is not as perfect and flawless as what the other reviews on this site states, I would still want to say that it is still fine on its own. The narrative wasn't as complicated and complex unlike some Xianxia dramas out there, however, I still think that they lack a lot when it comes to story telling. This drama has many plot holes, incomplete explanation of events and a handful of unused characters and story elements that could have contributed a lot to the entire story if they were utilized correctly and efficiently.

In addition, I wanna say that they don't know how to use the HYPE at all. There are a lot of impactful scenes that has gone to complete waste simply because the Director didn't use it wisely and intelligently enough. The video editing team was also underwhelming when it comes to connecting related scenes and events to make it look more emotional and convincing. Well, I must say that It still all lies on the director since I'm sure even the editors are following his lead and instructions.

Also, why do I feel like I'm watching a contemporary cliché drama during the last 15 episodes of the story? and their only difference is that they're wearing traditional Chinese costumes. Hahahaha!

Moving on, let me go ahead and discuss some of my favorite elements of this story.

First is most probably the contemplating attitude of some of the main group of characters. It shows how bad people, weren't actually deep-rooted bad, it's just that the people around them treated them terribly and differently that's why they learned and adapted to protect themselves from such people and circumstances—that it's only their defense mechanism for a chance of survival.

This drama also shows some great developments from its characters and I think it is one of the positive sides of this production. I feel like they never intended on making the bad people really bad so they gave them a redemption path which is a really healthy take for a story. I just love that the main characters didn't even care about the throne and power; and at the end, were able to find their own genuine happiness by letting go of their worldly desires and possessions.

Lastly, the CGI of this drama is really good specially the first few episodes. However, there are also times when you will get lost because of their magic powers, its effects and how it is visualized. I can't even believe that the most powerful spell was animated like it was just some normal type attacks. I was left baffled and underwhelmed during those scenes.

P.S. I waited and waited for my most anticipated scene which is to see Xiao Zhan dying out of jealousy but it never came! damn! I'm so sad... Hahahaha!!

Story - 9.0, I love that the imperial struggle wasn't the focus of this drama because I'm just so tired of it and I'm also glad that the initially introduced bad characters were given a redemption path to take. One thing that truly disappoints me is the wasted plot devices that could have made this drama even better if they were only used properly and efficiently. Let me also mention the rushed and terrible way they chose to conclude the story. Like... HUH? What`s that bullshit?

Acting/Cast - 10, I'm satisfied with the acting and was never bothered by anyone all throughout. Maybe because I already categorized this as an Idol Xianxia drama and it made me stop scrutinizing their acting that much. I'm also thrilled with the artists of this production. I admit that I was indifferent towards Ren Min at first but as the dramas goes on, I learned to love her too.

Music - 9.0, There is nothing bad about it in all honesty. I already expected it to be all melodic, full of humming, heavenly sounding and it did just what I expected it to be.

Rewatch Value - 8.5, This drama is fine. But I don't think I will ever watch it again. I just feel like there are lots of dramas out there who deserves my time and attention more.

Overall - 9.0, the drama's good. It's that the director wasn't able to fully squeeze out the beauty and capability of the story. Could have been better with a different director and team I would say. Nonetheless, I was never bored of watching it and I genuinely love the artists of this production.

IF you find my review helpful please let me know.