The Promise of Chang’an

Helan Mingyu grows up sharp-minded and admired, and she forms a deep connection with the 9th Prince, Xiao Chengxu, that goes beyond simple friendship. When news arrives that Chengxu has fallen in battle, Mingyu ends up marrying his elder brother, King Xiao Chengrui, a match that reshapes her life and obligations. Chengxu, apparently alive, wins crucial campaigns that strengthen the realm while Chengrui's envy hardens. As long-buried facts about Chengxu's mother's death surface, Chengxu moves to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his, and Mingyu is left balancing loyalty, love and the shifting rules of power in a court where secrets have lethal consequences.

Directed by Yin Tao and created by Liu Fang, the series premiered in 2020 and stars Zhao Yingzi, Cheng Yi, Han Dong, Vicky Liang and Yang Chaoyue, presenting lavish sets and a classic palace drama format.

The show didn't collect major international awards, and public award records are limited. Viewer ratings are modest, with an average of 7.0/10 from available votes, reflecting steady fan interest rather than broad critical sweep.

Among audiences the series provoked steady online discussion, especially around its palace intrigue, costume design and the chemistry between the main actors. For fans of historical dramas it reinforced interest in stories centered on succession struggles and court maneuvering, and contributed to conversations about casting and visual style in modern adaptations.

Reception leaned on the strength of performances and the political plotting, with many viewers pointing to the leads' acting and the slow-burn strain between the brothers as highlights. Common themes include loyalty versus ambition, the personal cost of power, and how secrets shape public life, and reactions often noted deliberate pacing and heavy focus on court politics as defining features of the show.