When it comes to epic BL romance in Donghua, almost every fan will cite Mo Dao Zu Shi, or Master of Diabolism as one of the top recommendations. The story, which centers around Lan Wangji and Wei Wuxian, depicts a tender and emotional love story that spans the course of nearly two decades. Mo Dao Zu Shi’s Donghua is based on the original story told via Chinese Light Novels of the same name, and many fans may be wondering why the television adaptation is far less steamy than the source material.
Chinese Light Novels have become an experimental playground for queer romances. With many boasting rich narratives and high fantasy elements, they can be a breath of fresh air for those burned out on the tropes and “romantasy” vibe of English LGBTQA+ lit. Mo Dao Zu Shi is exactly this type of story, providing readers with a complex web of plotlines bolstered by the growing romance between the main leads.
It’s thanks to this addictive narrative that the Donghua is able to thrive despite missing some of the more obvious romantic elements from the Light Novels.Are Wei Ying and Lan Zahn Canon in the Donghua?The first big thing to tackle in the breakdown is the status of Lan Zhan and Wei Ying’s relationship. While the Light Novels and graphic novel adaptation clearly show the two as romantically involved, this is less clear in the animated series.
Despite a lack of obvious physical contact and open flirting between the two men, they are a canon couple. This might also be confusing,.