If people love this drama, I am not one of them, I like it ok but I think Zhang Ruo Yun oversell Fan Xian character-like Joy of Life. The actors came from JOL casts, many of them, collaboration between actors like 'My Heroic Husband' which were from JOL casts. Xu Feng Nian is another type of Fan Xian (JOL) background; handsome, likable/lovable, promising/bright future, don't care about position/status, ladies man, the son of powerful man/family, highly intelligent, scheming and political genius. I think Zhang RuoYun makes another staple of dual figure with similarities; Fan Xian and Xu Feng Nian, We can obviously notice that Feng Nian is Fan Xian were all in one. Alright besides all that, what I love about this drama is Xu Xiao. A powerful despicable man who scares of his own kids; 2nd daughter and Feng Nian. Who would beg his kids to do his bidding rather using a punitive or authoritative orders to get them do what he wants them to do. His children has voice to say 'nay' or 'ye' although the end his children would do what he wishes them (reluctantly) to enhance the power of Xu family in North Liang. I was wondering, by the age of 19 he started to learn how to fight and dream about winning the fight against second best martial artist in the world.

I love Old Huang, his character is cut short but he's unforgettable character, he's an excellent acting - very natural, relax, cute, genuine, and lovable. Another noted is the love between siblings, no rivalry no jealousy no anger. Every sibling wants to protect, care and love the other brother or sister...that's nice for a change rather many of C-drama portray hatred between sibling. Li Chun Gang/God of Sword (Qiu Xin Zhi) is likable character but he clean his dirty dusty smelly foot a lot - like 'eueww!'

There are too many martial art masters like everybody has specialty of over the top abilities that like 'really?'. Too much fake visual effects, Jiang Ni looks like the youngest actress and she's doing a great job there. Outdoor scenes has beautiful view but can see the white foundation in actors faces - the cosmetic job is obvious, total of 36 episodes does not bring out the best of Zhang RuoYun skills. I don't think there is a need to wait for season 2 or 3. This is the kind of watching one time and move on.