Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei starrer Chinese drama ‘Pursuit of Jade’ is breaking records and has become an international hit. The historical romance drama has joined other popular C-dramas on OTT, such as; ‘The First Frost,’ ‘Why I Fly Towards You,’ ‘Shine On Me,’ ‘The Best Things’ and ‘Love Between Lines’.However, the web novel’s live adaptation is a little confusing for some viewers due to its political setup and multiple subplots. In case you’re facing the same issue, here’s a ‘Pursuit of Jade’ guide, with characters, political subplots and other details explained.
Central plot of ‘Pursuit of Jade’
‘Pursuit of Jade’ follows Fan Chang Yu, a butcher’s daughter who’s struggling to make ends meet and take care of her little sister after her parents died. One snowy day, she stumbles upon an injured person buried in snow, whom she brings home despite her poor condition, and nurtures back to life. The man turns out to be a disgraced nobleman, Xie Zheng, but Chang Yu doesn’t know his true identity. He keeps it hidden from her and later enters into a marriage of convenience to help Chang Yu secure her home.But, what begins as a strategic alliance gradually turns into genuine love, as political turmoil at the capital deepens in Zheng’s absence. Nobody there knows Zheng is alive. As the two navigate political conspiracies, court factions, and an upcoming war, a lot of romance, revenge, power struggles, and a fight for survival follow.
‘Pursuit of Jade’ character guide
‘Pursuit of Jade’ boasts a star cast of Chinese actors, including Zhang Linghe, Tian Xiwei, Kong Xueer, Deng Kai, and more. However, the characters can be a little confusing to decipher. Fan Changyu, played by Tian Xiwei: Practical, bold, and emotionally layered; her action scenes and chemistry drive the show.Xie Zheng, played by Zhang Linghe: Brooding yet tender; excels in the shift from hidden revenge to open heroism.Li Huai’an, played by Ren Hao: Sharp magistrate adding intrigue and support.All 40 episodes of ‘Pursuit of Jade’ are available on Netflix.
