The story was very intriguing, engaging and keeps people going from start to finish. First, let me start with the character. It was very well written for both protagonist and antagonist. Xu Fengnian is not your usual aristocrat's son. His character is very convincing and realistic. Usually, the story always beautifies ml, meaning that ml usually considered as a good guy, never does anything wrong, never lies and somehow always gets fooled. But Xu Fengnian is different. He carries the charm domineering aura of Grand Commander while still had that humor of foolishness here and there.

Oh this drama had some serious humor where it was super funny in the place you least expect. Sometimes even makes you confused, do you want to laugh or do you not.

I like that he was in full control of his emotion - we can see the determination, intelligent and affection. Zhang Rou Yun is truly a great actor. I don't even know how much screenshots I take because every scenes that he's in just mesmerized me. Jiang Ni actually surprised me a little. Her character justifies her personality. A little bit necessary proudness in the name of a princess make me understand why (the actually scary) Fengnian keep it cool about all the 'assassinations'. Don't forget that Xu Fengnian take after Xu Xiao's charm and aura, so he is actually scary not in the way that he hurts you, but in the way that he studies you. Enemy who study their enemy is lot more dangerous than you think. I won't say about Jiang Ni's acting, I found a bit lacking from Fengnian but the eyes of affection and determination was still there so it doesn't disturb their chemistry and acting in general. Xu Xiao, Old Huang, Shu Xiu, Ning Emei, Qing Niao and that Lin guy, I can say that they give their all.

Secondly, I was relieved that it doesn't mix romance in there just because they want it to be interesting. The story is not of romance genre, but I can definitely see the affection and longing, which was 100 times better that romance. I'm a sucker for slow burn so this is my tea, and if you're not, I suggest don't watch for romance. I'll always ends up complaining if the strategy and revenge kinda drama always mix up romance as if the main lead doesn't have the strong resolution at all. They suddenly become weaker while I myself believe love is about become stronger (and smarter). Fortunately SSS doesn't have that bullshit. Their story was interesting thorough and thorough, it makes everyone a third wheeler.

For the plot, the story buildup was perfect. The rising action was a bit confusing since you can't see the 'chess board'. But I promise it was super engaging. They played well. Really hope season 2 can came out soon, tho I don't want they rush things and make a ruin out of it. SSS, signing out.