LayarHijau– The drama The Vendetta of An, starring Cheng Yi, has officially aired its final episode. From its premiere to the 28th episode, the series consistently delivered tension-filled and emotional storytelling, focusing on Xie Huai’an’s struggle to protect Chang’an from the threat of the Tiemu nation.
Warning: This article contains spoilers.
In the finale, the friendship between Xie Huai’an and his bodyguard Ye Zheng became one of the most heart-wrenching highlights. Ye Zheng, portrayed by Tong Mengshi, discovers that his own master, Zhu Zhi Long, is actually a Tiemu spy planning to assassinate Xie Huai’an. Despite being in the most difficult position, Ye Zheng chooses to stand by his friend’s side.
In a critically injured state, Ye Zheng confronts his master to settle their teacher-student relationship. This act not only closes a chapter of the past but also reflects his determination to support Xie Huai’an’s grand plan. The moments when Ye Zheng and Xie Huai’an gaze at each other after surviving near-death experiences, and when Ye Zheng guides his friend toward sacrifice with a broken heart, moved many viewers to tears.
Ye Zheng himself is the disciple of Zhu Zhi Long, a character who had secretly infiltrated Chang’an as a Tiemu spy. Following his master’s orders, he was assigned to protect Xie Huai’an. Throughout the perilous journey of revenge, Ye Zheng accompanies Xie Huai’an, and along with Zhang Mo, the three form a strong and trusting friendship.
The conflict peaks when Zhu Zhi Long’s true identity is revealed. To advance the Tiemu king’s plan, he injures Ye Zheng and his fellow disciple, nearly killing both. After being rescued and surviving the critical injuries, Ye Zheng immediately seeks out Xie Huai’an, who had just lost another friend and believed Ye Zheng had died.
Their reunion is one of the most emotional scenes of the drama. Without lengthy dialogue, they merely look at each other with tear-filled eyes and faint smiles, expressing relief and understanding that only long-time friends share.
Ye Zheng and his fellow disciple then confront Zhu Zhi Long for a final reckoning. It is revealed that Zhu Zhi Long comes from Tiemu, a famine-stricken country where many families were torn apart. Although he initially intended to kill his students for Tiemu’s mission, his heart softens upon learning that his own children’s bodies had been properly buried. Unable to continue his actions, Zhu Zhi Long chooses to end his own life.
In the closing part, Ye Zheng is the first to realize Xie Huai’an’s plan to sacrifice himself for the final strategy. He tries to stop his friend but ultimately chooses to support the decision, playing a key role in executing the plan.
Tong Mengshi’s performance as Ye Zheng received widespread praise. His acting is seen as more mature and emotional, with many viewers noting that this role surpasses the iconic Wu Zhu character he previously portrayed in Joy of Life. The finale of The Vendetta of An leaves a deep impression—full of sadness, sacrifice, and irreplaceable friendship.
