Story of Yanxi Palace

Episodes: 70
Synopsis:

Wei Ying Luo enters the court of Qianlong Emperor, Aisin Gioro Hongli, as a palace embroiderer. As she seeks to investigate her sister's death, she begins to scheme to get close to certain political figures within the palace such as the imperial guard Fucha Fuheng and Empress Fucha Rongyin. Using her embroidery skills and wit, she gets close to these two siblings and finds that not only were they not involved with her sister's death but they were going to be those who protected her the most within the palace. As Wei Ying Luo develops romantic affection toward Fucha Fuheng and a sisterly bond with Fucha Rongyin, she learns how to read and write under the kindhearted Empress Fucha. However, her wit and skill that earned her such powerful allies also bring attention to her from enemies within the harem. Wei Ying Luo learns how to use proper etiquette, mannerisms, and fast-thinking to her advantage as she maneuvers around political agendas and rivals within the court. Over time as she experiences new hardships and loses people she loves, she begins to get close with Qianlong and begins her climb to the top of the harem. 

Review: 

This was such a long drama so there were definitely parts where it DRAGGED. 

I also was watching this after Ruyi and so it was interesting to see the story be told from another perspective when Wei Ying Luo was the antagonist in the other drama. However, I loved the cinematography and the attention to detail in the outfits and scenery. I loved the contrast in new cast versus old cast when compared with Ruyi. 

I loved how smart and bold our main character was. However, I question if this was even possible being a maid in the palace. How did she not get offed early on?  

I did get a little hesitant as this drama continued because they made Ruyi's character a murderer. This was too far-fetched and didn't seem reasonable (considering the other woman was an imperial concubine as well). I feel like servants and investigators would've been on that immediately. Hence, I enjoyed the story of how Ruyi was portrayed in the other drama more where her decision to not be an empress anymore was targeted at her dissatisfaction with how the emperor was handling affairs rather than over some petty shit. 

Also, Fucha Fuheng---my heart is with you, homie. You deserved better.